In a significant move as the UK government seeks to redefine its relationship with Europe, Foreign Secretary David Lammy is set to join EU foreign ministers in discussions for the first time in two years. This meeting, which will take place in Luxembourg, will address pressing issues concerning the Middle East and the war in Ukraine.
According to reports from Radio Taiwan International citing Agence France-Presse, the invitation came shortly after UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s recent visit to Brussels, where he expressed a commitment to moving beyond the challenges posed by Brexit.
Lammy emphasized the UK government’s resolve to recalibrate its ties with Europe, aiming for deeper connections with its partners to ensure enhanced safety for all. He articulated that this visit represents an opportunity for the UK to return to the negotiation table and engage with its closest neighbors on some of the world’s most urgent issues, as they collectively face significant challenges.
The UK Foreign Office highlighted Ukraine as a primary example of effective UK-EU collaboration, pointing to joint sanctions against Russia, coordinated training for Ukrainian forces, and mutual efforts in humanitarian aid.
In another noteworthy development, former Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond passed away at the age of 69 on October 12. During his tenure, he oversaw the Scottish independence referendum in 2014, which ultimately did not succeed, leading to his resignation.
Current Labour Prime Minister Keir Starmer remarked on Salmond’s enduring impact on Scottish and UK politics over the past three decades, noting his deep commitment to Scotland’s heritage, history, culture, and the communities he represented.
Former Conservative Prime Minister Rishi Sunak referred to Salmond as “a significant figure in our political landscape,” acknowledging that while he disagreed with Salmond on constitutional matters, his debating skills and political passion were undeniable.
Salmond had faced allegations of sexual misconduct during his time as First Minister from 2007 to 2014, but all charges against him were dropped in 2020. He founded a new political party, Alba, in 2021, although it struggled to gain traction in elections. Additionally, his role as a host on the Russian state-funded media channel RT sparked controversy.
