France, July 18 -- In a landmark moment for European security, Prime Minister Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz are set to sign a comprehensive friendship and cooperation treaty in London.

The agreement deepens law enforcement and defence ties, reflecting a shared resolve to confront pressing challenges, most notably organised crime and rising strategic threats.

A top priority for the Starmer government is tackling the criminal gangs behind the dangerous small-boat crossings from France. In 2024, authorities detected approximately 37,000 people making the perilous journey across the English Channel, with over 20,000 more in the first half of 2025.

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