British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron held talks in Paris on Friday focusing on bilateral relations, European security, and developments in the Middle East.
The meeting took place ahead of a wider international gathering in Paris co hosted by the United Kingdom and France, where discussions are expected to centre on a proposed maritime initiative aimed at safeguarding navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
According to a statement from Downing Street, both leaders expressed concern over the situation in the Middle East and emphasized the importance of achieving long term peace to restore regional stability and global security.
The two sides also reviewed the future of UK France cooperation, highlighting joint efforts under initiatives such as the Coalition of the Willing on Ukraine and plans for a maritime freedom of navigation mission in the Gulf region.
Starmer used the meeting to reiterate his vision for a closer relationship between the United Kingdom and the European Union, stressing the need for stronger European unity in response to current global security challenges.
The leaders also discussed the ongoing war in Ukraine and rising migration pressures, as both countries continue to coordinate their policies on key international issues.
Officials said the talks reflect a broader push to deepen strategic cooperation between London and Paris at a time of heightened geopolitical instability.
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