Prime Minister Andy Burnham will host French President Emmanuel Macron at Downing Street, with talks expected to centre on curbing irregular migration, tackling smuggling gangs and securing a new EU deal.
Key facts
- Emmanuel Macron will be the first foreign head of state to visit Andy Burnham at Downing Street.
- The meeting is scheduled for Thursday at No 10.
- Talks are expected to focus on irregular migration, smuggling gangs, Iran and EU relations.
- Burnham is aiming to make progress on curbing irregular migration and sealing a new deal with the EU.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham will begin courting European leaders when he welcomes French President Emmanuel Macron as the first foreign head of state to visit him in Downing Street, according to the Guardian.
The two leaders are due to meet at No 10 on Thursday, with Burnham looking to make inroads on a number of foreign policy objectives. Chief among them are curbing irregular migration and sealing a new deal with the EU.
The Guardian reports that the prime minister will aim to centre the talks on key foreign policy issues, including Iran, smuggling gangs and the UK’s relationship with the European Union.
The visit marks an early opportunity for Burnham to establish relationships with major European partners as he sets out his government’s foreign policy priorities. France has long been a central partner in efforts to address cross-Channel migration.
By focusing on smuggling gangs and irregular migration, the talks reflect the continued significance of the issue in UK-France relations, alongside broader questions about how Britain manages its ties with the EU.
Why it matters
Cross-Channel migration and Britain's relationship with the EU remain among the most pressing challenges facing the UK government. Hosting Macron as the first foreign leader to visit signals the importance Burnham places on European cooperation to make progress on these issues.
Frequently asked questions
When and where will Burnham meet Macron?
The two leaders are due to meet at No 10 Downing Street on Thursday, according to the Guardian.
What will the talks focus on?
The talks are expected to centre on foreign policy issues including irregular migration, smuggling gangs, Iran and EU relations.
Why is this visit significant?
Macron will be the first foreign head of state to visit Andy Burnham at Downing Street, marking an early step in his efforts to court European leaders.