The United Kingdom and the European Union are engaging again after a week of talks that aim to shape a new framework for access to UK technology networks and data systems. Officials described the progress as a step forward that provides a foundation for further negotiations and highlights the core goal: a constructive path toward stable cooperation in the post-Brexit era.
Negotiators from both sides announced that agreement on EU access to UK technology infrastructures has been reached, although several sensitive issues remain before a full accord can be sealed. The joint statement underscored that ongoing work will focus on practical arrangements to ensure security, data integrity, and trust between governments, businesses, and citizens.
In discussions held in London, British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly and EU Vice President Maros Sefcovic described the breakthrough as a critical prerequisite for building trust and a solid basis for future conversations. Delegation teams will now work quickly to identify concrete solutions across various domains, with plans for a follow-up re-negotiation on January 16. The aim is to translate the new understanding into operational steps that can be implemented in the near term.
During the talks, both sides reviewed proposals intended to address concerns raised by businesses and communities in Northern Ireland. In their mutual assessment, the parties characterized the dialogue as candid and constructive, signaling a readiness to tackle practical issues that have hindered smooth relations since the Brexit process began.
The initial reaction from the British side highlighted the positive momentum in data-related progress, as reflected in social media remarks by senior diplomacy officials. The Northern Ireland Protocol remains the central obstacle in defining relations after the United Kingdom’s departure from the EU, though negotiators noted progress toward resolution as talks continue.
Looking ahead, officials in Brussels have suggested there is a window of opportunity, particularly after the protocol agreement was extended through December 2025. The focus remains on securing reliable channels for veterinary product supply and other cross-border trade, while visible momentum has grown since the new prime minister took office. Both sides emphasize accelerating the search for reconciliation and ensuring that any accord supports legitimate trade, security, and regulatory alignment across the island of Ireland and beyond.