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[INTERNATIONAL] · Germany, United Kingdom · 56 sources

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UK and Germany ratify Kensington Treaty and launch hybrid threat partnership

During his first official visit to Berlin, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to formalize a new era of bilateral cooperation. A central outcome of the meeting was the official ratification of the 2025 Kensington Treaty, a 27-page agreement designed to deepen ties in science, technology, defense, security, and economic growth. The treaty also introduces practical measures such as visa-free travel for school exchange programs and the establishment of a direct rail connection between the two nations.

Security was a primary focus of the discussions. The two leaders launched a new partnership aimed at countering hybrid threats, specifically targeting cyber-attacks, sabotage, and hostile activities linked to Russia. This initiative involves enhanced information sharing and coordinated efforts to protect critical infrastructure.

In the defense sector, Prime Minister Burnham expressed the United Kingdom’s openness to Germany joining the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), a sixth-generation fighter jet project currently involving the UK, Italy, and Japan. While the UK signaled interest in progressing this discussion with existing partners, German officials noted that Berlin is still evaluating its options and has not made a formal decision.

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Andy Burnham · Friedrich Merz · Germany · Global Combat Air Programme · Kensington Treaty · Russia · United Kingdom

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