The British Prime Minister and the Prime Minister of Portugal concluded in London on Monday a global political agreement to restructure bilateral cooperation between the two countries following the UK’s exit from the European Union.
This is Boris Johnson’s welcome to Antonio Costa at 10 Downing Street, the official residence of the head of the British government, and the first formal meeting between the two since Brexit.
Diplomatic sources said that at the end of the meeting, which will begin at 1 pm, a joint declaration will be signed that “establishes the framework for relations between the two countries in areas subject to EU agreements.” .
“The announcement covers five key areas: foreign policy, defense, trade and investment, science and innovation and education,” he added.
On Saturday, Foreign Minister Jonah Gomez Gravinho told the Lusa news agency that “an agreement is being prepared between the two countries and a particular focus is on climate change, especially the seas.”
As part of the celebrations on June 10, the President – Antonio Costa, who was in London until Saturday – attended ceremonies for health reasons – and highlighted the importance and moment of this bilateral agreement. , Precisely marking the 650 years of the Tagilde Treaty, which later evolved into the Luso-British Alliance Treaty.
According to Marcelo Rebello de Souza, the global agreement to be signed with the United Kingdom “does not violate Portugal’s membership rules in the European Union”.
“The conclusion of this agreement shows that Portugal can be a very interesting bridge with the United Kingdom, a traditional ally in the European Union,” the President said.
The first Prime Minister of Brexit is following this diplomatic path towards Britain.
During the long and complicated process of the UK’s exit from the EU, Antonio Costa sought to play a moderate role in all EU member states, trying to avoid a breakdown in negotiations between the London government and the Michael Commission-led European Commission. Barnier.
The Lisbon administration estimates that the UK’s irregular exit from the European Union will endanger a section of the Portuguese community living in the country, estimated at about half a million, which will be difficult for the British. Tourists will travel to Portugal, which will hamper strong bilateral trade and financial ties.
Antonio Costa, the second leader in the XXII Constitutional Government’s plan, emphasized Portugal’s intention to negotiate with the United Kingdom, considering the “future relationship as close as possible” after the “Brexit”. .
The same objective will be on the table at today’s meeting between the Prime Ministers of the United Kingdom and Portugal.
