International

UK PM Visits Ireland to Revive Relations

Published

4 months ago

Sep 7, 2024.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to visit Dublin on Saturday, marking the first time a British PM has stepped foot in the Republic of Ireland in five years.

This significant trip aims to reset relations between the two nations and strengthen ties with the European Union.

Since his Labour Party’s victory in July, Starmer has been eager to improve cooperation with EU countries, seeking to enhance diplomatic and trading relationships without revisiting the UK’s departure from the bloc.

The 2016 Brexit referendum had put a strain on Anglo-Irish relations, particularly regarding Northern Ireland’s trading rules.

Starmer’s visit comes after hosting Irish counterpart Simon Harris in July, and both leaders are keen to seize this opportunity for a fresh start.

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“Our relationship has never reached its full potential, but I want to change that,” Starmer said in a statement.

“We have a clear opportunity to go further and faster to make sure our partnership is fully delivering.”

During his visit, Starmer will meet with businesses and watch a soccer match between the Republic of Ireland and England, a symbol of the renewed spirit of cooperation.

This friendly match is a far cry from the 1995 fixture that was abandoned due to a riot, and instead echoes the peaceful 2015 game between the two teams.

As Starmer and Harris work together, they are poised to write a new chapter in Anglo-Irish relations, one built on collaboration, mutual understanding, and a shared vision for a brighter future.

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