Starmer says that UK will look for closer cooperation with EU

BBC reports, that the prime minister of UK Sir Keir Starmer said that his country will seek closer economic ties with the EU as war in Iran continues. During a news conference Starmer told the press that he wants to use the summit with EU, which will take place later in 2026, to pursue closer relationship with the European Union in the matters of economy and security. After the start of new hostilities in the Middle East, British PM as well as Chancellor Rachel Reeves have argued for less distanced trade with the EU, saying among other things that it is a more urgent question now because of world instability. Starmer also said that the upcoming summit will not only ratify previously agreed upon deals, but will be “more ambitious”. This intention comes after UK’s refusal to provide further aid to US in its war against Iran, leading to strained relations between London and Washington. After President Trump’s critique UK allowed the US military to use its bases for strikes against Iran. Starmer said that this war is impacting the United Kingdom and took the opportunity to confirm that the government is taking measures to combat the increase in cost of living. British PM’s statements are coming after a wave of criticism from parties in opposition to the current government who call on the minister to set a clear outline of how he plans to stop the cost of living rising, while proposing their own initiatives. The Conservatives and Reform UK parties propose excluding VAT from households’ energy bills, while the Greens call for putting billions of pounds now into subsidizing of July energy bills, as the price cap will be recalculated in that month. Other forces, such as Plaid Cymru insist that the government should state its plans on how to support the people if the energy bills rise. The Organization of Economic Co-operation and Development warns that out of major economies it it the British one that suffers the biggest hit as a result of the US war against Iran. UK foreign secretary will host 35 nations including the Gulf states on Thursday to discuss, among other questions, the measures which could be taken to make the Strait of Hormuz more secure and accessible after the end of hostilities