The UK is set to begin talks on a new cooperation treaty with Germany as the Labour government seeks to “reset” relations with Europe.
Sir Keir Starmer, who is in Berlin for talks with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, said the deal was part of an attempt to “turn the corner on Brexit”.
Downing Street said the deal would cover areas including energy security, technology and science.
He added that it would also cover access to markets and trade through the North Sea.
After Berlin, Sir Keir will travel to Paris to meet French President Emmanuel Macron and attend the opening ceremony of the Paralympic Games.
No 10 said he hoped a new deal with Germany could be agreed early next year.
While detailed plans have not been revealed, discussions on improving market access are expected to focus on areas such as helping companies certify their products and providing more information on competitions.
Downing Street added that it would build on a defence pact between the two countries already under negotiation and due to be finalised in the autumn.
That deal, announced last month, saw the two countries commit to buying more military equipment together and making it easier for each other’s militaries to use it, as well as increasing cooperation in areas such as cyberwarfare.
Sir Keir has pledged to forge a closer economic relationship with Europe, including a “far better” trade deal than the one negotiated by Boris Johnson at the end of 2020.
His Labour government is seeking deals with the EU to reduce border controls on food products, cut red tape for touring entertainers and increase recognition of job qualifications, making it easier for some professionals to work abroad.
He also wants to negotiate a security pact with the EU, as well as a new return agreement for failed asylum seekers.
It is unclear whether Brussels would consider major changes to the UK’s existing Brexit trade deal, which is due to come up for review in 2026.
Sharing intelligence
Downing Street said the prime minister and Mr Scholz would discuss joint efforts to tackle illegal migration through increased intelligence sharing on smuggling gangs.
Ahead of the visit, Sir Keir said the UK had a “once-in-a-generation opportunity to reset our relationship with Europe”.
He said cooperation with both Germany and France would be “crucial” in addressing migration and boosting UK economic growth.
“We must turn the tide on Brexit and mend the broken relationships left by the previous government,” he added.
As well as meeting Mr Scholz, Sir Keir will meet German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and the heads of energy engineering group Siemens Energy and defence firm Rheinmetall, which makes vehicles for the British military.
