German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) offered congratulations to new British Prime Minister Andy Burnham on his inauguration. On Monday, the Chancellor wrote that “the United Kingdom and Germany are close allies and partners.” He added that their deep connection is particularly evident during the current times and expressed his strong desire to discuss the challenges ahead with Burnham. Merz also invited Burnham to visit Berlin soon.
Prior to this, government spokesman Stefan Kornelius defined the expectations for the new Premier. Kornelius told the dts news agency that the priority is for Germany and Great Britain to continue building upon their very good existing relationship, connection, partnership, and friendship. He noted that the cooperation with Burnham’s predecessor, Keir Starmer, had been “excellent,” and the aim is to follow that momentum seamlessly.
Kornelius highlighted the importance of the “Kensington Agreement,” which was signed in 2025 and serves as a cornerstone of the relationship, especially following Brexit. Based on this agreement, the Chancellor looks forward to the cooperation and his first meeting with Mr. Burnham.
Regarding the possibility of the UK moving closer to the EU under Burnham’s leadership, Kornelius declined to speculate. “Those are internal British decisions, and we will of course closely follow and observe them,” he stated. However, he concluded that anything that promotes cooperation between Great Britain, the European Union, and Germany will receive support.
