Ten years after the Brexit referendum, Renew Europe calls for a more ambitious EU UK partnership
On the eve of the tenth anniversary of the United Kingdom's referendum to leave the European Union, and as the UK turns a new political page with the resignation of its Prime Minister, Renew Europe is calling for greater ambition in rebuilding the EU UK relationship ahead of the next EU UK Summit in July.
Renew Europe will support a debate in the European Parliament on future EU UK relations during the forthcoming July plenary session, as Members take stock of progress made since the first EU UK Summit and consider the next steps in strengthening cooperation.
Sandro Gozi MEP (Renew Europe, France), Chair of the European Parliament's Delegation to the EU UK Parliamentary Partnership Assembly, said:
"Ten years after the Brexit referendum, Europe and the United Kingdom face a profoundly different world. Russia's war against Ukraine, growing geopolitical competition and the need to strengthen our economic resilience mean that a closer partnership is no longer simply desirable, it is a strategic necessity. The July Summit must deliver greater ambition on security, defence, youth opportunities, research and economic cooperation. But we also need a long-term vision. Whoever forms the next UK Government should have the courage to set out a clear strategy for Britain's place in Europe, worthy of Britain's young people who see themselves as Europeans. Ten years is a long time in politics. It is an eternity in geopolitics. Our relationship must continue to evolve to reflect the shared interests and common values that unite us."
Sandro GoziRenew Europe MEP, France, Mouvement Démocrate
Barry Andrews MEP (Renew Europe, Ireland), member of the European Parliament's Delegation to the EU UK Parliamentary Partnership Assembly, added:
"For those of us on the island of Ireland, Brexit has never been an abstract political debate. It has had real consequences for communities, businesses and cross-border cooperation. Ten years after the Brexit vote, we need much more ambition. As the United Kingdom enters a new political chapter, there is an opportunity to look forward, not back. I hope the next Government will embrace a more ambitious relationship with the European Union, building on the progress made and recognising that our shared security and prosperity depend on closer cooperation. The July Summit should mark the beginning of a more ambitious long-term partnership."
Barry AndrewsRenew Europe MEP, Ireland, Fianna Fáil Party