UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is in Berlin on Wednesday for his first bilateral trip since taking office last month, where he will meet with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to discuss a new partnership between the two nations. This visit marks a significant step in Starmer's commitment to rebuilding trust with European allies that has been strained by Brexit.

During his discussions with Scholz, Starmer aims to launch a new bilateral accord, reminiscent of the UK's 2010 "Lancaster House" treaty with France. This agreement is expected to take several months to negotiate, with finalization anticipated early next year. It will focus on enhancing business and trade relations, deepening defense and security cooperation, and addressing issues related to illegal migration.

Starmer's visit comes at a time when Scholz is under pressure to tackle illegal migration, particularly following a tragic knife attack in Solingen that left three dead and eight injured. The suspect, a Syrian man, had previously evaded deportation attempts by German authorities.

In addition to migration, the talks are likely to cover military support for Ukraine, as both countries face scrutiny over their aid to Kyiv amid Russia's ongoing invasion. Starmer's government has allowed Ukraine to deploy British-made Challenger 2 tanks but has imposed restrictions on the use of long-range Storm Shadow cruise missiles. Conversely, Germany has been hesitant to provide its long-range Taurus missiles, fearing escalation of the conflict.

Starmer has ruled out rejoining the European single market or customs union, aiming instead to negotiate a new security pact and a veterinary agreement to ease agricultural trade barriers. His visit is seen as an opportunity to forge a "meaningful relationship" with Scholz and advance broader agendas on migration, trade, and defense.

Following his meetings in Berlin, Starmer will continue to Paris to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron, further emphasizing his commitment to strengthening ties with key European partners.