Migration crisis dominates Macron-Starmer talks during UK state visit
[London | July 9, 2025]
French President Emmanuel Macron’s three-day state visit to the United Kingdom has now moved beyond royal pageantry into the realm of serious and complex political dialogue. On the second day of the visit, the key issue discussed in his meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer was the migrant crisis, particularly those crossing the English Channel to enter the UK.
‘One-in, One-out’ Proposal
Prime Minister Starmer proposed a new migration agreement based on a “one-in, one-out” policy — under which Britain would accept European asylum seekers who have familial or humanitarian links to the UK, in exchange for the right to return those who entered illegally. However, France has yet to agree to such a deal.
UK Urges More Action from France
Starmer is urging France to take stronger steps to prevent illegal crossings from northern France, a political flashpoint in the UK. The issue has bolstered support for the far-right Reform UK Party, creating political pressure on the Labour government.
A Historic Visit and Diplomatic Warmth
This marks the first state visit by an EU head of state since Brexit was formalized in 2020. The last French state visit was in 2008 by President Nicolas Sarkozy. This time, King Charles III personally invited Macron. The visit began with a royal banquet at Windsor Palace, symbolizing a new era of diplomatic goodwill.
Macron’s Caution and France’s Stance
In his address to the British Parliament on Tuesday, Macron acknowledged the migration crisis as “a burden on both nations,” calling for a solution based on “humanity, solidarity, and fairness.” Yet, France made it clear it will not sign any unilateral “one-in, one-out” deal.
French officials argue that the UK should negotiate migration solutions with the entire European Union, not just with France.
European Obstacles and Legal Hurdles
According to Al Jazeera’s London correspondent Milena Veselinovic, the deal is “nowhere near finalized.” Countries like Spain, Italy, Greece, Malta, and Cyprus — considered “first entry points” into Europe — oppose the plan.
Under EU law, if France accepts asylum seekers from the UK, it may be compelled to relocate them to their original entry countries, placing more strain on already overburdened southern European nations.
Analysis: Diplomatic Reality for Starmer
This presents a diplomatic challenge for the Starmer administration. He must build consensus not just with Macron but across the EU. Whether the proposed deal can be implemented remains uncertain.
Nonetheless, these discussions signal a new chapter in UK-France relations — one that goes beyond formalities and confronts real-world problems through collaborative diplomacy.
