Britain is “back on the world stage”, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer declared, as he unveiled a sweeping new agreement with the European Union that promises closer ties, economic growth, and a reset in relations after years of post-Brexit turbulence.
Speaking from Lancaster House at the first UK-EU summit since Britain left the bloc, Sir Keir described the agreement as a “win-win”, saying it delivers on the public’s call for practical progress while leaving behind “stale old debates and political fights”.
The deal – reached after late-night negotiations with Brussels – was struck just in time for the London summit and covers key areas such as trade, border security, defence cooperation, and youth mobility. Officials say the agreement could inject up to £9 billion into the UK economy by 2040, with benefits expected to ripple across all nations – including tangible gains for Wales.
A boost for Welsh economy and travel
The deal’s most immediate impact will be felt by businesses and consumers. By reducing red tape on food and agricultural exports, it is expected to lower costs for both producers and shoppers — a welcome relief amid the ongoing cost-of-living pressures. This is particularly significant for Welsh farmers and food exporters, who have long been burdened by the complex bureaucracy of the post-Brexit trading environment.
Equally, the reintroduction of e-gate access for British travellers at European airports will mean faster, smoother journeys for holidaymakers – especially valuable for families and students from Wales heading abroad.
Sir Keir also confirmed the return of pet passports, making it easier for families to travel with their cats and dogs, a move applauded by many across rural Welsh communities where pet ownership is high.
Youth opportunities across Europe
One of the most talked-about provisions is the creation of a “youth experience scheme” – a dedicated visa pathway allowing 18 to 30-year-olds to live, work, volunteer or study across the EU, and vice versa. The final cap on numbers will be agreed at a later date, but the scheme has been hailed as a significant step in rebuilding cultural and educational links severed by Brexit.
“This gives opportunity for young people in the UK to work, travel, volunteer, au pair — you name it — in Europe, and the same the other way,” Sir Keir said.
The announcement is of particular relevance to Wales, which has a strong tradition of youth mobility, educational exchange, and participation in EU-funded initiatives. Though details remain under negotiation, many hope this scheme could echo the opportunities once offered under the Erasmus+ programme — which, as EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen noted, fostered “friendships that will last a lifetime”.
Trade, security and defence: A new era
President von der Leyen called the agreement a “historic moment”, adding: “We are opening a new chapter in our unique relationship.” She praised the UK’s renewed involvement in EU defence initiatives, including access to military procurement programmes — a key step in reinforcing cooperation amid global instability, notably the ongoing war in Ukraine.
European Council President Antonio Costa echoed the sentiment, saying: “We are stronger when we act together.”
The agreement also aims to tackle illegal migration and deepen collaboration on intelligence-sharing — priorities that have gained urgency in recent years.
Fishing access sparks criticism
Despite the largely positive reception, the deal has faced backlash from some quarters, particularly Brexiteers and the fishing industry. Under the terms agreed, EU vessels will retain access to British waters for a further 12 years — a concession seen by critics as too generous.
However, government sources argue this was essential to unlock broader economic benefits, and stress that British control over waters will be phased in gradually with improved monitoring and sustainability measures.
What it means for Wales
For Wales, the implications of this deal are potentially transformative. Welsh exporters, particularly in the food and farming sectors, stand to benefit from streamlined EU trade. Tourism could also get a lift thanks to simpler travel protocols, while the proposed youth mobility scheme may once again open doors for Welsh students and young professionals eager to explore Europe.
Furthermore, Wales’ longstanding academic and cultural ties with the EU — often disrupted since Brexit — may find renewed strength through future collaboration under this agreement.
In a statement, Sir Keir urged the country to look ahead: “It’s time to move on from the stale old arguments. To find common-sense, practical solutions that get the best for the British people.”
With this new chapter, Britain — and Wales with it — appears to be stepping confidently back onto the international stage.
