UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has held talks with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin, with security cooperation and growing hybrid threats high on the agenda.
The two leaders agreed to launch a new UK-Germany counter-hybrid threat partnership, aimed at improving the way both countries identify, monitor and respond to cyber attacks, sabotage and threats to critical infrastructure.
The partnership will involve greater information sharing and coordination between the two countries as they seek to detect and disrupt hostile activity.
The UK and Germany have highlighted Russia as a particular source of concern, amid wider European warnings about cyber operations and other forms of hybrid activity.
Burnham and Merz also discussed support for Ukraine, instability in the Middle East and the impact of disruption to important global trade routes, including the Strait of Hormuz.
The meeting also marked the formal ratification of the Kensington Treaty, originally signed in 2025. The agreement covers closer cooperation between Britain and Germany in areas including defence, security, science, technology and economic growth.
The two governments are also planning greater cooperation in advanced technology, including artificial intelligence and quantum research, while a new Regional Growth Forum will bring together British and German business leaders.
The talks come as both countries face increased concerns over threats to infrastructure and democratic institutions. German authorities have previously linked a suspected drone attack near Leipzig airport to wider concerns about Russian hybrid operations, although Moscow has denied involvement.