Spain and UK sign first bilateral framework agreement in post-Brexit era

Thursday 04 September 2025 - 14:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Spain and UK sign first bilateral framework agreement in post-Brexit era

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer met in London on Wednesday to sign a historic framework agreement, marking the first bilateral deal between the two nations since the UK’s departure from the European Union.

The agreement comes as a significant step in rebuilding and redefining relations between the two countries. At a meeting held at 10 Downing Street, Starmer emphasized the importance of the bilateral relationship, highlighting the close ties between their citizens and economies.

"It is a privilege to have you here, both because of our close friendship and the closeness between our two countries. Millions of British citizens visit Spain every year, and the connection between our people and companies is invaluable," Starmer said alongside Sánchez.

Gibraltar and Brexit’s final chapters

Although the new framework agreement does not directly address Gibraltar, Starmer acknowledged the recent progress made through negotiations involving the UK, Spain, the EU, and Gibraltar. These discussions have aimed to finalize the remaining issues stemming from Brexit.

Sánchez described the agreement as a milestone in enhancing collaboration between Spain and the UK, particularly under the broader framework of resetting UK-EU relations.

"This bilateral agreement will strengthen our cooperation and collaboration, fostering deeper ties between our countries," Sánchez affirmed.

Key areas of cooperation

The agreement outlines a commitment to annual strategic dialogues designed to enhance cooperation on a global scale. It spans numerous areas of shared interest, including economic growth, climate change, migration, international security, and cultural exchanges.

The framework notably underscores the growing threats posed by geopolitical instability. It commits both nations to counter Russia's destabilizing activities in Europe, including cyberattacks, sabotage, foreign interference, and other forms of hybrid warfare.

Moreover, the agreement emphasizes strengthening people-to-people connections through culture, education, and tourism, reflecting the longstanding affinity between the two nations.

Business partnerships and economic ties

Following the political discussions, a roundtable was held with executives from leading Spanish and British companies, including Iberdrola, Telefónica, the Santander Group, Navantia, Indra, and Aena, alongside UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Spain’s Economy and Trade Minister Carlos Cuerpo.

The agreement proposes measures to facilitate smoother operations for Spanish businesses in the UK and British companies in Spain. It also recognizes the significance of economic ties between the two nations. In 2022, Spanish direct investment in the UK reached nearly €80 billion, making it the second-largest destination for Spanish capital after the United States.

This framework agreement signals a renewed partnership between Spain and the UK, fostering deeper cooperation and mutual growth in an increasingly interconnected world.