British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak visited President Emmanuel Macron in Paris today. This is the first summit between the heads of government of the two countries in five years. According to British correspondent Lia van Bekhoven, the country’s attitude towards the EU has changed. “Since the departures of Boris Johnson and Liz Truss, a different wind has blown through 10 Downing Street. Sunak’s visit is therefore an attack of charm,” said Van Bekhoven.

The country’s economy is in trouble. Sunak understands that good relations with the European Union are essential for economic recovery.

The two countries also want to send a signal to Moscow with this visit. France and Great Britain are Europe’s military superpowers and play a key role in European support to Ukraine. With this visit, these countries want to show that Russia cannot separate them,” said Van Bekhoven.

Read also | The Windsor deal is not a deal yet, enthusiastic though it is

Asylum problem

But the British visit to the Élysée was not only symbolic. The UK now really wants to stop illegal migration. ‘The state wants to deny asylum rights to any asylum seekers who enter illegally and send them to a country like Rwanda. However, this is against international law,” the correspondent stressed.

Read also | British Prime Minister: ‘Keep sending illegal immigrants back’

Therefore, the British Prime Minister wants to make a migration deal with Macron, but Van Bekhoven does not see that happening. France will not accept British migrants. At best, Sunak will accept Macron’s promise that France will inspect its shores more strictly for asylum seekers,” said Van Bekhoven.

Bill

The British Parliament will vote on the ‘No-boats’ bill on Monday. This is one of Sunak’s five priorities. “I hope this law is passed. Stopping illegal migration is one of the main reasons for Brexit. Hence, there is wide support for the law in the country,’ said the correspondent.

Follow developments in Ukraine here on the live blog