The UK and Germany will face threats together, Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said as he reaffirmed a series of defence and security partnerships.
On his first official European trip, apart from visits to Ukraine, Burnham met German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and was greeted with military honours in Berlin.
Speaking to reporters at the German capital’s Federal Chancellery, the prime minister said both countries were facing hybrid attacks “on a regular basis” and “it makes sense” to take them on together.
The pair formally ratified the 2025 Kensington Treaty, a partnership committing both countries to tackle hostile activity.
Burnham said the treaty would “improve our security here in Europe” but also help grow the economy and living standards.
“The Kensington Treaty [is] the first treaty between Germany and the UK since the Second World War – it really is a significant moment,” he said.
He added that the UK government would now “seek to progress” Germany joining Gcap, the Global Combat Air Programme led by Italy, Japan and the UK to develop a next-generation fighter aircraft.
He outlined partnerships “countering hybrid attacks” and “countering interference in our democratic processes”.
He mentioned collaboration on quantum technology and space, adding he was aiming to host the first joint meeting of the UK and German cabinets next year.
The Berlin talks come after intelligence services warned of rising threats, including last month when Germany accused Russia of launching a drone fitted with explosives at Leipzig/Halle Airport.
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