During his first state visit to the UK in 27 years, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier called on Britain to move past Brexit and focus on rebuilding its relationship with Europe.
Addressing British lawmakers in Parliament on Thursday, Steinmeier urged Britain to look to the future with a spirit of pragmatism, using an unexpected yet fitting reference to British rock band Oasis to make his point: "Don't look back in anger."
The visit, which began on Wednesday, marked a significant moment in UK-Germany relations, as it was the first state visit by a German president in nearly three decades. The occasion was welcomed with a royal reception at Windsor Castle, where King Charles and Queen Camilla greeted Steinmeier and his wife, Elke Budenbender, with a carriage procession and a state banquet.
Steinmeier acknowledged the strain Brexit had placed on UK-EU relations, noting the sense of uncertainty that followed the UK’s departure from the European Union in 2020. “Brexit has changed our relations,” Steinmeier said. “There was a feeling of uncertainty; however, we decided not to stay stuck in these feelings.”
The German president emphasized the need for a "new footing" in UK-EU relations, focusing on pragmatism rather than lingering on past divisions. He stressed that rebuilding stronger ties would benefit both sides, easing trade, cutting consumer costs, and fostering closer cooperation between European nations and the UK.
His message was clear: both the UK and the EU should focus on future collaboration rather than dwell on the past. Using Oasis’s famous lyrics, he told lawmakers, "Don’t look back in anger … Keep calm and carry on. Look ahead pragmatically and move on." Steinmeier’s words underscored his belief that a forward-looking approach would be vital in healing the divisions caused by Brexit.
The visit also included moments of reflection and respect for the UK’s royal history. On Thursday, Steinmeier and his wife visited Queen Elizabeth II’s tomb to lay flowers in tribute. They also viewed the State Sleigh, a piece of royal history designed by Prince Albert, Queen Victoria’s German husband.
Steinmeier's visit highlights the ongoing importance of UK-EU relations and the desire to forge a path of cooperation and mutual benefit in the post-Brexit era. His call for a pragmatic approach echoes the sentiment of many European leaders who believe that, despite the challenges of Brexit, collaboration between Britain and the EU remains crucial for the future of both parties.
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