UK adopts pragmatic approach for upcoming EU trade talks

The UK plans to adopt a "ruthlessly pragmatic" approach in upcoming talks with the EU, focusing on improving trade and cooperation. Cabinet Office minister Nick Thomas-Symonds emphasized the need to move past ideological divisions to address shared challenges. Thomas-Symonds highlighted the decline in trade between the UK and EU, with exports down significantly since 2021. He called for reducing trade barriers and enhancing agreements on agriculture, professional qualifications, and energy security. EU trade commissioner Maros Sefcovic will meet with Thomas-Symonds to discuss the reset talks. The EU seeks a youth mobility scheme, but the UK government remains cautious about any measures resembling free movement.