EU Leaders Von der Leyen, Costa Hold First Talks with New UK PM Burnham

European Union leaders Ursula von der Leyen and António Costa have initiated contact with the United Kingdom's new Prime Minister, Andy Burnham. The presidents of the European Commission and the European Council held their first phone conversation with Burnham on Monday evening, aiming to foster closer ties between the EU and the UK. This outreach comes as both sides prepare for an upcoming EU-UK summit scheduled to take place in Brussels later this year.

During the call, Costa expressed satisfaction with the "good first call," emphasizing a shared commitment to further strengthen EU-UK relations. Both leaders also addressed pressing geopolitical challenges facing Europe. The conversation underscored a mutual dedication to maintaining close cooperation, particularly in ongoing efforts to support Ukraine. This collaborative stance highlights the continued importance of the partnership between the EU and the UK on the international stage.

Von der Leyen echoed Costa's positive assessment, describing her conversation with Burnham as "very good." She affirmed a mutual commitment to bringing the EU and the UK closer together. The focus of their future work will be on ensuring a successful summit that yields benefits for businesses, young people, and shared security interests. Burnham, who recently became the seventh UK leader in a decade, is expected to prioritize this relationship as he navigates his new role.

Burnham's ascent to Prime Minister follows his proclamation as leader of the Labour Party. His government's formation was formally sanctioned by King Charles III. The planned EU-UK summit, initially slated for Wednesday, was postponed in June following the resignation of the previous Prime Minister, Keir Starmer. The new leadership in the UK signals a fresh chapter in the relationship, with both sides eager to build on existing cooperation.