The German government is poised to finalize a long-planned “friendship agreement” with the United Kingdom, a move described by a government spokesperson as a priority for the Chancellor. The agreement, set to be signed during the Chancellor’s visit to London on Thursday, aims to foster collaboration across a broad spectrum of shared interests.
The accord encompasses areas including foreign and defense policy, with a focus on promoting economic growth and strengthening people-to-people connections between Germany and the UK. Discussions surrounding the treaty have been ongoing between Berlin and London for several years, stretching back to the previous legislative period.
A spokesperson from the Ministry of Defence confirmed that the agreement includes provisions for cooperation in the realm of weapons systems interoperability. Specifically, the treaty outlines a commitment to jointly deploy maritime surveillance aircraft from a base in Scotland.
The proposed treaty is scheduled for approval by the German cabinet next week, followed by ratification by the Bundestag, Germany’s parliament. The agreement represents a significant step in solidifying the relationship between the two nations.