Starmer and Scholz held meeting and discussed Ukraine
Olaf Scholz and Keir Starmer (photo: x.com/Keir_Starmer)
On Sunday, February 2, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer held a meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Representatives of the two countries discussed the war in Ukraine, European defense issues, and more, according to the British government website.
The leaders agreed on the importance of strengthening the bilateral partnership. Speaking about Ukraine, Starmer briefed Scholz on his recent visit and reiterated that it is crucial to secure the country's position as strongly as possible in the coming months to achieve peace through strength. The leaders also agreed that Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine highlighted the importance of increasing and coordinating defense production across Europe.
The strategic defense review of the government, which will be published later this year, was also discussed during the meeting. According to Starmer, it will take into account lessons learned from Ukraine and the need to maneuver in the context of ongoing aggression and hostile activities by Russian President Vladimir Putin across Europe.
The parties also agreed on the importance of an even stronger bilateral partnership between the UK and Germany.
Additionally, Starmer and Scholz discussed the ceasefire between Israel and Gaza. The leaders welcomed the release of hostages and emphasized the importance of seeing through all stages of the agreement. The Prime Minister added that the key issue is the decision to create two states, ensuring a secure and stable Israel alongside a viable and sovereign Palestine.
On January 16, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer made an official visit to Kyiv. Following his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the two sides signed a 100-year partnership agreement. The document outlines the building of strong ties between the countries in all possible areas, from trade, security, and defense, to science and technology, education, culture, and much more.
