Prime Minister's meeting with Chancellor Angela Merkel
The Prime Minister hosted Chancellor Merkel at Chequers today for bilateral talks on EU reform, Syria, Ukraine and relations with Russia.
A Number 10 spokesperson said:
The meeting began with a lengthy, in-depth discussion on Syria, particularly the terrorist threat from ISIL and the need for a political solution to the conflict. They concluded that the UK and Germany should work even more closely together, and with other partners, on the situation in Syria, the threat from foreign fighters and on efforts to counter ISIL’s poisonous ideology.
Talks then moved on to the situation in Ukraine and Russia’s behaviour. The Prime Minister welcomed the progress that Chancellor Merkel and President Hollande had secured through the Normandy format. Both leaders underlined the importance of financial and practical support for Ukraine. They agreed that the EU must maintain sanctions on Russia until the Minsk agreement is fully implemented.
Over dinner at Chequers this evening, the Prime Minister and Chancellor Merkel discussed the UK’s renegotiation.
The Prime Minister underlined that he wanted to secure reforms and then keep the United Kingdom in a reformed EU. He noted that the technical talks are progressing well but that there is still much to be worked through in order to find a solution. Chancellor Merkel reiterated that she wanted Britain to remain in the EU.
They agreed that the October European Council would be the next staging post before further discussions with Member States ahead of the December European Council.
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Last updated 9 October 2015 + show all updates
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Updated with details of this evening's talks on EU renegotiation.
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First published.