The United Kingdom and the Federal Republic of Germany today announced a deepened commitment to cooperation across culture, education, science and society, recognising that soft power, cultural exchange and long‑term people‑to‑people relationships are essential to building a secure, prosperous and democratic future.
At a time of significant geopolitical change, the United Kingdom and Germany emphasised that the foundation of their partnership lies not only in shared strategic interests, but in the cultural ties, open societies and human connections that have long linked their nations. Both countries highlighted the vital role of cultural relations – from language learning and youth mobility to artistic collaboration and academic partnership – in strengthening democratic resilience, fostering mutual understanding and supporting a stable European future.
The United Kingdom and Germany reaffirmed their determination to address global challenges through cooperation rooted in creativity, trust and the free exchange of ideas. They underscored the importance of cultural institutions, civil society organisations and educational networks — including the British Council and Germany’s cultural and academic partners – in countering disinformation, supporting open dialogue and reinforcing the values of open, democratic societies.
Both governments recognised that Russia’s war of aggression on the European continent represents the most significant and direct threat to European security. In this context, they stressed that cultural diplomacy and societal engagement are indispensable tools for maintaining social cohesion, defending the rules‑based international order and supporting communities affected by conflict.
The United Kingdom and Germany also reaffirmed their shared commitment to tackling the climate crisis, promoting sustainable economic growth and ensuring that technological change benefits their citizens. They noted that education, research collaboration and cultural exchange are central to equipping future generations with the skills and perspectives needed to navigate these global transformations.
The announcement acknowledges Germany’s membership in the European Union and the legal framework governing EU–UK relations, including the Withdrawal Agreement, the Windsor Framework and the Trade and Cooperation Agreement. Both countries agreed that their bilateral cooperation complements and strengthens the wider EU–UK relationship.
The United Kingdom and Germany reiterated their unwavering commitment to the Transatlantic Alliance and welcomed the Agreement on Defence Cooperation signed in London on 23 October 2024. They also recognised the important roles played by regional governments, parliaments, municipalities and cultural actors across both countries in shaping the future of the partnership. As part of this renewed cooperation, the United Kingdom and Germany will advance a series of joint Lighthouse Projects designed to deepen cultural, educational, scientific and societal links.
You can read the Foreign Office's press release here.
You can find a list of the Lighthouse Projects here.