Merz signs UK friendship treaty, boosting defense ties

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will sign a friendship treaty with the UK on Thursday, including significant defense provisions, marking a new era in bilateral relations. The agreement, finalized with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London, is the first of its kind between the two nations, despite close diplomatic and commercial ties since World War II. The treaty addresses evolving security concerns and transatlantic shifts. This follows Starmer's efforts to strengthen ties with the EU and a recent state visit from French President Emmanuel Macron, highlighting a focus on European cooperation and security.