国际观察丨增强“对美免疫力” 英法能否冰释前嫌

Core Points - The visit of French President Macron to the UK marks the first visit by an EU leader post-Brexit, aiming to enhance military cooperation, illegal immigration management, and economic investment between the two nations [1][2] - The backdrop of increasing strategic anxiety in Europe due to reduced US security commitments under the Trump administration has prompted the UK and France to "restart" their bilateral relations [1][3] Group 1: Bilateral Relations - Macron's visit included high-level meetings with King Charles III and Prime Minister Starmer, culminating in the signing of the "Northwood Declaration," which coordinates nuclear deterrent capabilities between the two countries [2] - The declaration states that any threat to the core interests of either the UK or France could result in a joint nuclear response, highlighting the importance of defense and security cooperation [2][3] Group 2: Immigration and Economic Cooperation - The UK and France reached an "entry-exit" agreement to manage illegal immigration, where illegal migrants arriving by small boats will be detained and returned to France, while an equal number will be allowed to enter the UK through legal channels [2] - Both nations also announced plans to strengthen trade and investment cooperation, particularly in areas such as supercomputing, space, and artificial intelligence [2] Group 3: Challenges and Structural Issues - Despite the apparent unity, structural issues remain due to historical tensions from Brexit, illegal immigration, and fishing rights, which will continue to test the relationship between the two governments [4][5] - The complexity of balancing relations with the US while addressing mutual interests poses a significant challenge for the UK government, particularly in light of domestic pressures from far-right and anti-immigration forces [4][5]