19 May 2025 – The first EU–UK Summit took place today since the UK withdrew from the EU.
Today marked the first EU–UK Summit since the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss shared priorities and future cooperation.
Adeline Rochet, Programme Manager of CLG EU and Viola Meyerweissflog, Programme Manager of CLG UK gave a joint statement, saying:
"Against the backdrop of a rapidly changing geopolitical environment, building competitive, resilient, and sustainable economies is a challenge that demands close and collaborative cooperation between the UK and the EU. As such, we welcome today’s EU-UK Summit as a reflection of shared values and the recognition that addressing global challenges requires cohesive and coordinated efforts.
United in the goal of achieving climate neutrality, the close alignment of the EU and UK’s Emissions Trading Schemes and Carbon Border Adjustment mechanisms is crucial in the fight against climate change, reducing trade barriers, and improving competitiveness on both sides of the Channel. Businesses, including the members of our Corporate Leaders Groups, have played a central role in driving this alignment. This leadership underscores the critical importance of responsible business action, especially in times of uncertainty. Their voices are powerful, demonstrating that when businesses lead, significant progress toward a sustainable future can be achieved.
The global direction of travel remains clear: sustainable action is good for business. The reality is that business leaders are resolute in their commitment to delivering on sustainability. Both the EU and the UK have a core responsibility to set the pace globally, leading with ambition, determination, and a collective vision for a better, more sustainable future."
