NATO and European Political Community Meetings

The Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, opened the debate by outlining the Government's position on a range of foreign policy issues. He highlighted the UK's unwavering commitment to the NATO alliance and support for Ukraine in the face of Russia's illegal invasion. Starmer emphasized the need for a generational response to the threat from Russia, including increased defence spending and military aid to Ukraine. The Prime Minister also addressed the situation in the Middle East, calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and a renewed push for a two-state solution between Israelis and Palestinians. On the issue of illegal migration, Starmer spoke of the need to work closely with European partners to tackle the root causes and dismantle the criminal gangs responsible. In response, the Leader of the Opposition, Rishi Sunak, praised the Prime Minister's work with allies and the consensus on foreign policy that has been built across the House. Sunak welcomed the Government's focus on strengthening the UK's defence capabilities and increasing defence spending, as well as the commitment to supporting Ukraine. He also urged the Prime Minister to continue pressing for further third-country migration partnerships to address the illegal migration crisis. The debate that followed covered a wide range of topics, including the importance of the UK's relationship with the European Union, the need to seize and use frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine, and the role of the UK in addressing conflicts and instability in regions such as the Western Balkans, Moldova, and Georgia. Members from across the political spectrum expressed their support for the Government's approach to foreign policy and national security, emphasizing the importance of maintaining unity and a strong, coordinated response to the challenges facing the UK and its allies. The Prime Minister reiterated the Government's commitment to upholding international law and the rules-based international order, while also stressing the need to work closely with European partners to address shared challenges. He acknowledged the complexity of issues such as the conflict in Gaza and the need for sober, considered solutions to achieve lasting peace and stability in the Middle East. Overall, the debate demonstrated a broad consensus in the House on the importance of the UK's role in the world, the need to strengthen alliances and security cooperation, and the imperative to support Ukraine and stand up to Russian aggression. The Prime Minister's statement and the subsequent discussion highlighted the Government's determination to provide strong leadership on foreign policy and national security matters.