From the perspective of the EPP-CoR Group, it is essential to maintain and further develop strong economic, logistical, and knowledge networks between the EU and the United Kingdom. International trade remains crucial for European towns, cities and regions, particularly in sectors such as agri-food and drink, high-tech and logistics.
The EPP-CoR Group welcomes the holding of the CoR-UK Contact Group in November 2025, the second of the current CoR mandate, alongside the meeting of the Parliamentary Partnership Assembly (PPA) and the CoR-UK Contact Group.
In its meeting on 18 November at Europe House in London, the EU Ambassador to the UK Pedro Serrano provided opening remarks in which he recognised the work of the United Kingdom's devolved nations and localities, and gave insight into the possibilities for cooperation in different areas, including defence.
Co-Chair of the Parliamentary Partnership Assembly (PPA), MEP Sandro Gozi, said he looked forward to getting the views of all regions, especially border regions on the BRIDGEforEU (Border Regions' Instrument for Development and Growth). He continued that it was always foreseen that the Regulation can be open to non-EU Member States, with especially the UK in mind. MEP Gozi also welcomed the holding of the Contact Group alongside the PPA.
The outcomes of the May 2025 EU-UK Summit, youth mobility, Erasmus+, artist and creatives' cross-border facilitation and avoiding trade barriers featured prominently in discussions.
In the fields of innovation and research—such as at universities and in the energy transition—close collaboration and knowledge sharing are indispensable. The EPP-CoR Group emphasises that political stability and security within Europe, including cyber, energy, and food security, can only be safeguarded through strong interregional cooperation and joint action. Through ongoing activity in European bodies, the EPP aims to keep these issues firmly on the agenda and contribute to a resilient, competitive, and stable European internal market.
Jimmy McClearn, Member of Galway County Council, spoke on the regrettable situation concerning lack of Erasmus opportunities for youth on both sides of the channels. He called for greater cooperation on renewables and clean energy electricity policy, right across continental Europe, the UK, and to Ireland. He called for a greater focus on what can be done at the local and regional level.
Ans Mol, Regional Minister of the Province of Gelderland, said "international cooperation is what drives Europe. In times of rising international tensions, having reliable partners and cooperation structures are key. Cooperation happens through the political lines of for instance the EPP. But, also through the European thematic networks, such as Vanguard Initiative on innovation or the Assembly of European Regions agriculture." Gelderland's strategic location in European transport corridors (including the Betuwe Route) means that good mutual relations and cooperation can be important in reducing (digital) border procedures.
Noel Formosa, Mayor of San Lawrenz, island of Gozo, asked the Deputy Chief Minister of Gibraltar, in an update on the State of play - future Agreement between the EU and the UK on Gibraltar, about the possibilities for greater environmental protection in the Mediterranean Sea. He also asked whether Gibraltar and Andalusia could develop joint sustainability or clean energy projects.
The Multiannual Financial Framework: Implications for EU-UK Relations, was also discussed, as was civil society perspectives on regional and local dimensions of EU-UK cooperation, with Peter Byrne, Chair of the EU-UK Follow-up Committee, European Economic and Social Committee.
EU-UK cooperation should be seen not merely as a trade matter but as a comprehensive societal challenge that touches on economic stability, social cohesion, sustainability, and opportunities for future generations. Ms. Mol also called for the reinforcing of cultural and educational networks as essential to secure long-term partnerships and to foster mutual understanding, innovation, and shared prosperity across Europe and the UK.
Chair of the CoR-UK Contact Group Karl Vanlouwe confirmed that the CoR will be granted two observer seats in the next meeting of the PPA to take place in March 2026.
The next meeting of the CoR-UK Contact Group will take place in Brussels in the first half of 2026 at a date to be announced in due course.