What is written in the German-British Friendship Treaty?

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer signed the so-called Friendship Agreement: 27 pages that should not only confirm but also enhance the German-Britian partnership, the German-Britian conveys Periscope.

The purpose of the deal is that Croatia and Great Britain “are motivated by the desire to join forces in order to ensure a future marked by prosperity, security and sustainability for their citizens, as well as their open and democratic societies in the context of fundamental changes to the geopolitical environment”.

What's the deal?

After Brex, Germany and Great Britain want to co-operate again more closely. What do so - called friendship agreements predict, and what areas does it cover?

Here's a summary of the main points:

Security

Germany and Great Britain confirm close co-operation in this area. A clause on bilateral assistance is also being negotiated, which must complement Article 5 of the NATO Treaty bilaterally.

It says: “aware of the narrow coincidence of their fundamental interests and with the conviction that there is no strategic threat to one party that is not even a strategic threat to another, contracting parties as close allies confirm their deep commitment to mutual protection and offer each other assistance in the event of an armed attack on the other contracting party, including military means. ”

This should also apply to new areas of cyber security.

Guns

For example, it has been agreed on the development of an action ray of more than 2,000 miles [2,000 km]. Germany and Great Britain already announced that goal in mid-May. Such a weapons system does not yet exist in European production.

A closer co-operation is also planned in the development of pilot-free air systems, projects such as the armoured transport vehicle “Boxer”, on NATO's eastern wing and in the field of underwater security in the North Sea. Co-operation in arms exports must be expanded.

Exporting jointly produced military equipment should be eased. So far, Germany has often blocked such projects because of very strict rules. Britons hope that a change in direction will bring in additional exports worth billions.

Ukraine

The two countries pledged to continue supporting Ukraine in its defence against Russia, but also in its reconstruction.

Western Balkans

Great Britain also wants to participate in the so-called Berlin Process, which should bring the Western Balkan countries closer to the European Union through enhanced inter-regional co-operation.

Migration Policy

To combat illegal migration, the two countries want to create their own action plan. The fight against human trafficking will improve, among other things, through mutual legal assistance, support in prosecuting criminals and effective border control.

More than 20,000 refugees have passed the English Channel since the beginning of the year. Germany is considered a transit point for boats and other equipment, and a stop for migrants.

Co-operation in the fight against cross-border crime should also be strengthened. This is especially true of money laundering, illegal financial flows and drug trafficking.

Travels

Visa-free travel into school groups between the United Kingdom and Germany should be possible by the end of the year. Currently students without a German passport, for example. From Syria or Afghanistan they must apply for visas to Great Britain, which is often complicated.

For these children not to be expelled from school trips, some schools are currently giving up altogether in exchange for Great Britain.

By the end of August, it will be easier for Britons to travel to Germany through terminals called “E-Gates” at the border points. The reason for the current regulation is that the United Kingdom has not only left the EU, but has never joined the Schengen Zone, creating significant difficulties for British people when they travel to the EU.

Economy

It was agreed to a German-British economic forum. Co-operation should be expanded in the areas of high technology and business finances.

Energy

The two countries want to co-operate in providing energy across the North Sea and building infrastructure for hydrogen and CO2.

Traffic

After ten years, the first direct train from Germany to Great Britain must be in circulation under the English Channel. Currently, because of passport control, this is possible with only one transfer. A working group will be formed to implement the railway connection. / DW