Keir Starmer’s Historic Visit: Resetting UK-Ireland Relations

Keir Starmer’s historic visit to Dublin marks a significant turning point in relations between the United Kingdom and Ireland. The visit, which came after five years of strained diplomatic ties, signifies the beginning of what both nations are calling a “reset.”

(Also read Starmer Promises to Strengthen UK-Ireland Ties During Dublin Visit.)

For years, Brexit-related tensions and political disagreements had dominated the discourse between these two close neighbours, but Keir Starmer’s historic visit to Dublin aims to usher in a new era of cooperation. Both sides expressed their commitment to rebuilding trust, with trade, security, and peace talks at the forefront of their discussions.

The Significance of British PM’s Visit to Ireland

For the UK, Starmer’s visit represents a major shift in diplomacy, particularly when compared to the last official visit by a British Prime Minister, which occurred under Boris Johnson in 2019. That visit had been clouded by Brexit tensions and disagreements over the Irish border issue. In contrast, Starmer’s visit signals a desire to turn the page, to rebuild relations based on mutual interests and longstanding ties.

For Ireland, this visit is a chance to reset the relationship, especially as it coincides with a period of political change in both nations. Simon Harris, the Irish Taoiseach, only assumed office in April 2024, three months before Starmer’s Labour Party won the UK general election. This alignment of leadership provides an opportunity to recalibrate UK-Ireland relations.

Why Now?

One might ask, why has the need for a reset in UK-Ireland relations emerged so strongly in 2024? The answer lies in the political and economic consequences of Brexit, which have placed significant strain on the partnership.

As Keir Starmer’s historic visit unfolded, the leaders acknowledged that their economies and markets remain intertwined despite the UK’s departure from the European Union. Starmer himself highlighted the “huge amount of bilateral trade between our countries,” a figure estimated to be around £120 billion annually.

This economic interdependency is one of the main drivers behind the UK-Ireland relations reset 2024. Starmer recognizes that both countries benefit from close cooperation, and any attempt to distance themselves would only harm both economies. As a result, both nations have agreed to hold annual summits on trade and cooperation, ensuring that this reset remains on track.

A New Era of UK-Ireland Cooperation

Both leaders have described this moment as the start of a new era of UK-Ireland cooperation. The reset goes beyond trade; it encompasses security, peace in Northern Ireland, and international diplomacy.

Both Starmer and Harris have committed to being co-guarantors of the Good Friday Agreement, a crucial peace deal that helped stabilise Northern Ireland. Given the delicate political situation in Northern Ireland, where divisions over Brexit and the UK Legacy Act have created friction, this reset comes at a critical juncture.

During the talks, Starmer emphasised the importance of maintaining peace in the region, while Harris underscored the shared responsibility between the UK and Ireland in ensuring the Good Friday Agreement’s continued success. This commitment is expected to be a focal point of the first summit planned for March 2025.

Bilateral Trade Between UK and Ireland

A key focus of Keir Starmer’s historic visit was the emphasis on improving bilateral trade between UK and Ireland. The leaders discussed ways to reduce trade friction that had emerged post-Brexit. While the UK may no longer be a part of the EU, both nations have acknowledged the importance of smoothing over complications that have affected businesses and trade routes.

At the heart of these discussions was a roundtable with prominent Irish businesses, including representatives from major firms like Accenture, Keelings, and Primark. The goal was to foster deeper economic ties, encourage new investments, and ensure that both countries continue to benefit from each other’s markets.

Symbolic Weightage Keir Starmer Visit to Dublin

The image of Keir Starmer’s visit to Dublin also carries significant symbolic weight. It not only marks a new chapter in relations but also underscores the personal rapport between Starmer and Harris. The two leaders attended the Republic of Ireland vs. England football game at the Aviva Stadium, where they were seen laughing and exchanging football jerseys.

This gesture of camaraderie was a light-hearted but important reminder that relations between the UK and Ireland are about more than politics—they are about shared culture, history, and friendships.

This symbolic exchange highlights the personal commitment both leaders have made to improving relations. The Taoiseach even referred to Starmer as a “friend,” reinforcing the idea that this reset is grounded in mutual respect and shared values.

International Challenges-Ukraine and the Middle East

The reset between the UK and Ireland is happening against the backdrop of global challenges. Keir Starmer’s historic visit comes at a time when both leaders are facing pressing international issues, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and tensions in the Middle East. As Starmer emphasised, “In the face of Russian aggression, we have to stand together.” Both leaders pledged continued support for Ukraine and emphasised the importance of maintaining unity among allies.

Regarding the Middle East, both leaders called for a ceasefire and reiterated their support for a two-state solution in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While these issues may seem distant from UK-Ireland relations, they underscore the broader global role both nations aim to play in promoting peace and stability.

What’s Next for UK-Ireland Relations?

The UK-Ireland relations reset 2024 is still in its early stages, but the signs are promising. With the first annual summit scheduled for 2025, there is a clear structure in place for sustained cooperation. As the leaders continue to work together on issues like trade, security, and peace in Northern Ireland, this reset has the potential to be transformative.

Starmer’s visit has also laid the groundwork for a wider EU reset. The Prime Minister has made it clear that he intends to pursue a “closer relationship with the EU,” and Ireland will play a crucial role in facilitating that. By rebuilding trust with its closest neighbour, the UK can also begin to repair its ties with the wider European community.

Conclusion

Keir Starmer’s historic visit to Dublin is a significant moment in modern UK-Ireland relations. It marks the beginning of a new era of cooperation, built on a foundation of economic interdependence, shared responsibility for peace in Northern Ireland, and a mutual desire to move beyond the divisions of the past.

As both nations continue down this path, the hope is that this reset will not only benefit their bilateral relations but also strengthen their role in addressing global challenges.

With trade talks, peace agreements, and football matches, this visit has set the tone for what could be a lasting partnership between the UK and Ireland. The future of UK-Ireland relations looks bright, and as Starmer and Harris continue to work together, the benefits of this reset will undoubtedly unfold over time.