UK and Germany complete Kensington Treaty ratification
UK and German leaders completed ratification of the Kensington Treaty in Berlin, bringing their bilateral friendship agreement into force. The treaty sets regular foreign-policy consultations and cooperation against sabotage, cyber threats and foreign interference. Burnham and Merz also announced an industrial technology corridor, with a first meeting planned for the autumn, alongside further research and regional cooperation.
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Berlin exchange completes ratification
British Prime Minister Andrew Burnham and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz completed ratification of the Kensington Treaty during their October 8 meeting in Berlin. The leaders exchanged the official instruments that conclude the approval process. The friendship and bilateral cooperation agreement had been signed in London in July 2025.[1], [2]
Under Article 30, the treaty enters into force on the date those instruments are exchanged. The German government confirmed that this happened on October 8. The text provides for consultations on foreign and security policy, including close cooperation on sanctions policy and implementation.[1]
Foreign ministers will hold annual consultations
The treaty sets an annual strategic dialogue between foreign ministers and yearly coordination by senior officials. Its provisions on sabotage, malicious cyber activity and foreign interference include information sharing and coordination of response options. Heads of government will lead ministerial consultations every two years to approve the following two-year project plan. Germany’s obligations under European Union law remain protected.[1]
Industrial technology meeting is planned for autumn
The governments also announced an industrial technology corridor focused initially on artificial intelligence and high-value industries. Executives and officials will meet this autumn. Five additional quantum research projects will receive 19.5 million euros, taking the total to ten. Space consultations and a cooperation memorandum are planned for early 2027, while Merz and Burnham will launch a Regional Growth Forum that year.[1]
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