It is certainly beneficial for the nations involved, as well as for the EU, if there is a warm understanding between London and Berlin. All the better if the two heads of government get on well personally and politically. However, the bonhomie during Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to Chancellor Olaf Scholz should not obscure the fact that Brexit places strict limits on the closer cooperation that is being sought.
This is, how nice, mainly because the two countries already communicate and cooperate closely: as members of NATO and the G7, as well as bilaterally. If the planned defense agreement comes about on the third attempt, it would simply put into writing what has long been a reality.
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The Germans would like more exchange, especially between young people. The British say no to this: the issue of immigration remains too sensitive. London’s priority – simplified trade with Europe’s largest economy – can only be implemented to a very limited extent after leaving the single market and customs union.
Starmer is right to forge close personal ties with Scholz, as he did with French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday. But for closer economic cooperation, he should soon plan a visit to the new EU Commission in Brussels.
Sebastian Borger (Photo: SZ)
