​​​​Karl Vanlouwe, EA Group member and incoming Chair of the CoR's UK Contact Group, took part in the fifth meeting of the EU-UK Parliamentary Partnership Assembly at the European Parliament in Brussels. The Assembly brings together elected representatives from the EU and the UK to maintain dialogue and explore areas for future collaboration. This session focused on rebuilding ties after Brexit, with strong interest from both sides in working more closely on defence, trade, and youth-related initiatives. The four main debates addressed the current state of EU-UK relations and explored practical ways to deepen cooperation in key areas.​

Keynote speakers, including European Commission Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič and UK Minister for EU Relations Nick Thomas-Symonds, stressed the need for focused and pragmatic collaboration to ensure security, economic resilience, and mutual prosperity. Discussions included proposals for a new Security and Defence Partnership to tackle global threats, easing trade barriers to support SMEs, and boosting youth mobility and cultural exchange. A proposed Youth Mobility Partnership and short-term visa waiver for touring artists received broad support. Vanlouwe’s participation underscored the importance of regional voices in shaping the future of EU-UK relations and ensuring that cooperation continues at all levels of government.