UK and EU Reinforce Partnership in Latest Joint Meetings
The United Kingdom and the European Union convened today in London for crucial discussions during the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee and the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) Partnership Council. Co-chaired by the UK’s Minister for the Cabinet Office, the Rt Hon Nick Thomas-Symonds MP, and European Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič, these meetings aimed to evaluate ongoing agreements and enhance bilateral relations.
Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee
The initial focus was on the current status of the Withdrawal Agreement, concentrating on rights for citizens, the Windsor Framework, and the Protocol regarding the Sovereign Base Areas in Cyprus.
Citizens’ Rights
The co-chairs reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the rights of British nationals in EU member states and EU citizens in the UK, emphasizing this as a priority moving forward. They acknowledged the newly established provisions in UK law and expressed intentions to expedite the shift from temporary to permanent residency for affected individuals.
The Windsor Framework
Progress in implementing the Windsor Framework was a highlight, with both parties noting advancements benefiting people and businesses in Northern Ireland. Simplified customs processes introduced in May 2025 and reduced checks on sanitary and phytosanitary matters since December 2025 were welcomed. The co-chairs also pointed to the forthcoming transition to new veterinary medicine arrangements starting in January 2026.
Moreover, they addressed the exchange of insights regarding the implications of ongoing advancements in Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Resilience Acts on the effective operation of the Windsor Framework, committing to resolve outstanding issues promptly.
Cyprus Protocol
In discussions about the Cyprus Protocol, the leaders agreed on the need for expedited steps to ensure its complete and effective implementation across all areas.
TCA Partnership Council
The TCA Partnership Council commended the recent Common Understanding reached during the UK-EU Summit in May 2025 and acknowledged the constructive strides made since the last council meeting in May 2024. Key achievements included finalising the Competition Cooperation Agreement and establishing long-term fishing access arrangements to ensure continued stability for both sides.
Future Collaborations
Significant developments were also noted regarding educational initiatives, including negotiations for the UK to join Erasmus+ in 2027, and exploratory discussions related to the UK’s involvement in the EU internal electricity market. Both parties expressed their intention to address these matters cooperatively.
Looking ahead, the co-chairs identified various negotiations aimed for completion by the next EU-UK summit, which include the Youth Experience Scheme and forming a common Sanitary and Phytosanitary Area.
Ongoing Dialogue and Cooperation
The co-chairs also highlighted the upcoming dialogue on cyber issues slated for December 2025, focusing on enhancing collaboration on cybersecurity. They acknowledged the broader context of trade and economic challenges, including supply chain security and measures regarding global steel overcapacity.
Further discussions were held concerning the security of energy supplies and clean energy technologies, with an emphasis on maximising cooperation in fisheries management as well.
The commitment of both parties to persist in their collaborative efforts within the framework of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement was strongly reaffirmed during the meetings.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/joint-statement-on-the-withdrawal-agreement-joint-committee-and-trade-and-cooperation-agreement-partnership-council-meetings-2-february-2026
