The UK will host a summit on Thursday for the European Political Community (EPC), welcoming over 45 leaders to converse about pressing issues such as Ukraine, immigration, and energy, announced the UK Government.
This meeting, set at the historic birthplace of Winston Churchill, Blenheim Palace, follows Labour Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s assumption of power less than two weeks ago.
Speaking about his commitment to change the UK’s engagement with European partners, Starmer said: "This work begins at the meeting of the European Political Community on Thursday." This statement followed the Brexit vote in 2016, and his intention to rebuild relationships with key European partners.
Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris and French President Emmanuel Macron will meet with Starmer on the sidelines of the summit.
The summit underscores "the importance of unity in response to the curve of conflict and instability within and near Europe’s borders."
Established in October 2022, the EPC aims to boost cohesion, cooperation, and dialogue among European countries, marking its fourth summit.
For the first time, NATO, Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe, and the Council of Europe will be in attendance. Europe faces “some of the greatest challenges of our time,” noted Starmer, referencing “Russia’s barbaric war” in Ukraine.
The Prime Minister has previously stated the UK’s support for Ukraine is “unwavering”. The summit aims to serve “as a platform for pushing for ongoing international military and financial support for Ukraine, anticipating a challenging winter,” according to a statement.
Together with addressing the conflict in Ukraine, leaders will deliberate on immigration, energy, and safeguarding democracy.
