On July 18, 2024, the Prime Minister will convene the European Political Community meeting (EPC), gathering approximately 50 leaders from across Europe.
This meeting marks a crucial opportunity for collaboration and dialogue among European countries, focusing on shared challenges such as the situation in Ukraine and the issue of illegal migration.
Set against the backdrop of Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill, this leader-level summit will be the fourth gathering of the EPC since its inception in October 2022.
Past EPC summits have played a pivotal role in fostering European unity against aggressive actions, addressing energy security concerns, and combating immigration-related crimes.
Against the backdrop of escalating tensions in Ukraine, the upcoming meeting holds significant importance in rallying support for the country.
Additionally, discussions will center on collaborative strategies to tackle the pressing issue of illegal migration across the continent, along with other topics of mutual interest.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed his enthusiasm for the UK's role in hosting this significant event, emphasizing the importance of collective action in addressing common threats to security and prosperity.
Blenheim Palace, situated in Oxfordshire and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, holds historical significance as the ancestral home of Sir Winston Churchill, who played a central role in confronting tyranny and aggression in Europe during World War II.
The flexible format of the EPC allows for comprehensive discussions on matters affecting the continent as a whole, as well as opportunities for bilateral and group meetings among states. The UK remains committed to supporting this flexibility and will engage in consultations with partners to address their specific needs.
Previous EPC meetings have covered a range of topics, including artificial intelligence, countering Russian hybrid threats, and standing united against aggression in Ukraine.
As the host of the upcoming summit, the UK is poised to facilitate constructive dialogue and cooperation among European nations, advancing collective efforts to address shared challenges and promote stability and prosperity across the region. Photo by DeFacto, Wikimedia commons.