Rishi Sunak is holding talks with the German Chancellor today as he urges NATO allies to follow Britain’s example on defence spending.
The PM was greeted warmly by Olaf Scholz as he arrived for their meeting in Berlin – with discussions expected to focus on security, trade and migration.
At a joint press conference, Mr Scholz said they were committed to supporting Ukraine for ‘as long as it takes’.
Mr Sunak said they were opening a ‘new chapter’ in defence cooperation.
It is Mr Sunak’s first visit to Berlin since entering No10, amid reports German diplomats were unhappy he had not made the country a priority.
Rishi Sunak is holding talks with the German Chancellor today as he urges NATO allies to follow Britain’s example on defence spending
The PM was greeted warmly by Olaf Scholz as he arrived for their meeting in Berlin – with discussions expected to focus on security, trade and migration
The two leaders will focus heavily on defence, with both committed to big increases in military spending in the wake of Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine.
The two countries are unveiling plans to develop a new generation of remote-controlled artillery designed for European defence.
A Government source said the new 155mm howitzer would provide ‘battle winning capabilities for future ground warfare’ as well as creating hundreds or jobs in both countries.
But the leaders will also discuss cooperation on renewable energy and other areas, with German firms like RWE committed to spending billions on developing new wind farms in Britain.
Mr Sunak said: ‘The UK and Germany are European powerhouses. Together, we are stronger – whether that is defending against Russian aggression or driving economic growth and technological advance.
‘Today we are opening a new chapter in our relationship, one that will make us safer and more prosperous. At this dangerous moment for the world, the UK and Germany are standing side by side to preserve security and prosperity at home and across our continent.’
The two leaders watched a parade before holding their discussions today
Earlier Mr Sunak chatted with military personnel as he visited the Julius Leber Barracks in Berlin
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