Prime Minister Andy Burnham hosted French President Emmanuel Macron at Downing Street on Thursday, marking the first foreign leader visit of Burnham's premiership. The two leaders discussed scaling up efforts to tackle illegal migration across the English Channel and explored avenues for bringing the United Kingdom closer to the European Union. Their discussions also extended to the production of long-range missiles in Ukraine, a key area of bilateral cooperation.

This meeting holds significant symbolic weight, highlighting the importance of the UK-France relationship for the new prime minister, who assumed office in July. Burnham emphasized the collaborative achievements possible between the two nations, citing progress on Ukraine, the issue of small boat crossings, and the desire to strengthen the UK-EU relationship. President Macron echoed this sentiment, describing the relationship as "very strong" and expressing a commitment "to get closer."

No. 10 officials reported that both leaders acknowledged progress in reducing small boat crossings but agreed that further action is necessary. The UK's ambition for closer ties with Europe was a central theme, with Burnham raising concerns about the potential impact of the EU's "Made in Europe" procurement plan on British industries. This plan, intended to protect EU sectors, could affect British businesses seeking to engage in European supply chains.

Beyond migration and EU relations, the bilateral talks covered the conflict in Ukraine, specifically focusing on establishing local assembly lines for the Scalp long-range missile, a French variant of the UK's Storm Shadow. The leaders also addressed the volatile situation in the Middle East, underscoring the need for de-escalation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Prime Minister Burnham also used the meeting to raise Israel's recent plans for new settlements in the West Bank, particularly in the E1 area. He condemned these plans as "unacceptable," stating they undermine the prospects for a two-state solution. Israel's opening of tenders for approximately 1,200 settlement homes in this strategically important area east of Jerusalem has faced widespread international condemnation due to settlements being illegal under international law.

The visit by President Macron, which was primarily to mark the Bayeux Tapestry's loan to the British Museum, underscores the strategic importance of France for the UK's foreign policy objectives. Effective collaboration with France is seen as essential for managing the flow of migrants and for the UK's broader engagement with European economic structures.

Historically, the UK and France have maintained a close, albeit complex, relationship, often cooperating on defense and security matters while navigating differing approaches to European integration. The current discussions reflect a renewed focus on practical cooperation in areas of mutual concern, such as border security and international stability.

Further details on the specific measures to be implemented regarding small boat crossings and the UK's future economic relationship with the EU are expected to emerge as diplomatic channels remain open. The meeting also sets a precedent for Burnham's engagement with European leaders on a range of pressing global issues.