European leaders urge closer EU-UK ties to Burnham

European leaders congratulated Andy Burnham on becoming prime minister, seizing the opportunity to call for closer EU-UK relations.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she looked forward to working with Burnham for the “well-being of people on both sides of the Channel”.

“Congratulations on your confirmation as Prime Minister dear Andy Burnham,” he said in a post on X on Monday.

“I look forward to working with you to strengthen the EU-UK partnership.

“For the security of our common continent and the well-being of people on both sides of the Channel.”

European Council President Antonio Costa also reiterated the call for closer relations, saying: “EU-UK relations have gained new and positive momentum in the last two years. I look forward to continuing to deepen our cooperation for the benefit of our citizens and businesses.”

“The United Kingdom and the European Union are stronger together.”

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also congratulated the Makerfield MP on his new position.

“Australia and the United Kingdom are long-standing friends, allies and partners, united by shared values ​​and deep bonds between our peoples,” he wrote in X.

“I look forward to working with you to strengthen our partnership and promote safety, resilience and prosperity in the years ahead.”

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said: “I congratulate the new prime minister and wish him all the best for a successful term in office.

“Italy and the United Kingdom are committed to a deep friendship and cooperation that has grown stronger over the years, thanks to our joint work on important files fundamental to our nations, from the management of migration flows to major international crises, which are always addressed in a spirit of great cooperation.

“I am confident that we will continue on this path, strengthening our strategic partnership in the interests of our nations and citizens.”