Boris Johnson claims Macron used migration to retaliate against Brexit
2024-09-30 09:29- Boris Johnson accuses Emmanuel Macron of exploiting the small boats crisis as a form of punishment for Brexit.
- Johnson claims that Macron is intentionally allowing irregular migration to undermine the UK's control over its borders.
- The memoir highlights the strained relationship between the two leaders and the ongoing challenges in UK-France relations post-Brexit.
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Insights
In his upcoming memoir, Boris Johnson, the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, criticizes French President Emmanuel Macron for allegedly using the small boats crisis as a means to retaliate against Britain for Brexit. Johnson claims that Macron has turned a blind eye to the issue of irregular migration across the English Channel, suggesting that the French leader views Brexit as a significant affront to the EU. The relationship between the two leaders was marked by tension, particularly over issues such as fishing rights and the Northern Ireland post-Brexit deal. Johnson expresses his frustration with Macron's approach, stating that he believed the French president was intentionally allowing migrants to cross the Channel to undermine the UK's assertion of regained control over its borders. Despite acknowledging that he and Macron got along personally, Johnson laments that Macron would not hesitate to impose punitive measures on Britain. He recounts a conversation where he proposed a bridge linking the UK and France, only to be met with a firm rejection from Macron. Johnson's memoir reflects on the broader implications of Brexit and the ongoing challenges in UK-France relations, highlighting the complexities of international diplomacy in the wake of significant political changes.
Contexts
In the wake of Brexit, UK-France relations have experienced a tumultuous journey, marked by both challenges and opportunities. The recent summit between French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has been hailed as a pivotal moment to reconnect, focusing on new areas of cooperation such as energy security and irregular migration. This meeting signifies a promising new chapter for the two nations, both of which are advanced European militaries and permanent members of the UN Security Council, as they seek to address pressing global challenges together. The backdrop of this renewed partnership is a history of frayed relations, largely stemming from the fallout of Brexit negotiations and the AUKUS security pact, which disrupted France's submarine technology deal with Australia. Macron's firm stance during the Brexit talks and the prolonged negotiations over Northern Ireland's trade status have contributed to lingering tensions. However, with Sunak's proactive approach to rebuilding alliances in Europe, there is hope for a more collaborative future. As the two leaders reaffirm their commitment to mutual interests and shared values, they also recognize the urgency of addressing the ongoing threat posed by Russia's aggression in Ukraine. Both nations are determined to provide unwavering support to Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of international security and the rule of law. Their cooperation extends to enhancing defense capabilities and tackling organized crime, cyber threats, and terrorism. Looking ahead to the 120th anniversary of the Entente Cordiale in 2024, the summit has laid a strong foundation for deeper bilateral ties. By fostering a spirit of collaboration, the UK and France aim to navigate the complexities of a changing geopolitical landscape, ensuring that their partnership remains robust and effective in the face of emerging global challenges.
