The European Union and the United Kingdom have confirmed that their next summit aimed at improving post-Brexit relations will take place on 22 July in Brussels, following months of delays linked to disagreements over a proposed youth mobility scheme.
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The meeting had originally been scheduled for May but was pushed back several times as negotiators struggled to reach common ground on a programme that would allow people under 30 to work, study and travel more freely between the UK and EU.
Youth Mobility Talks Remain Key Obstacle
The proposed scheme has emerged as one of the most contentious issues in the negotiations. Discussions stalled in recent weeks, prompting speculation that the summit could be postponed until later in the year.
Speaking at the G7 gathering in Evian on Tuesday, António Costa confirmed the summit date and stressed the importance of closer cooperation between the two sides.
He said strong collaboration between the EU and UK was vital for Europe's security, resilience and economic prosperity, adding that both parties were working to ensure the summit's success.
EU diplomats have indicated that progress on a youth experience programme remains a key condition for holding the summit. The bloc has reportedly insisted that an agreement on the issue is necessary before leaders meet.
Starmer Pushes for Closer Ties
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said his government was fulfilling its pledge to improve relations with Europe and place Britain at the centre of European affairs.
He said closer cooperation would help address living costs, support employment and create opportunities for younger people.
Meanwhile, Naomi Smith, head of the pro-EU organisation Best for Britain, said the importance of the EU was growing and argued that even signalling a future ambition to seek membership could strengthen support for closer ties.
Trade and Climate Issues Also on Agenda
Alongside youth mobility, negotiators are working on a food and agricultural trade agreement designed to reduce border bureaucracy and physical inspections on UK exports entering the EU.
The proposed sanitary and phytosanitary arrangement would involve Britain aligning with EU standards. Parts of the deal have already been agreed, and the UK has begun outlining some of the checks that would be removed ahead of its expected implementation, likely next summer.
Discussions are also advancing on linking emissions trading systems. Such an arrangement would align UK and EU carbon trading rules and help address charges applied to products with high carbon emissions.
Delays Frustrated EU Officials
In recent months, some senior EU diplomats expressed concern that progress in the reset process was slowing despite repeated commitments from Starmer's government since taking office in 2024.
A further sticking point has been UK opposition to some EU proposals within the youth programme, including restoring home-fee tuition status for EU students studying in Britain, a benefit that existed before Brexit.
Despite the delays, both sides are now preparing for the July summit as negotiations continue on the remaining unresolved issues.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 18 June 2026