Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez traveled to London on Wednesday for his first official meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
It is the first direct talks between the two governments since 2017, following Britain’s departure from the European Union and a recent attempt to rebuild closer ties with Europe.
The visit comes after progress in negotiations over Gibraltar. In June, Madrid and London agreed to remove border checks between the enclave and Spain, while also allowing Gibraltar access to the EU customs union.
At 10 Downing Street, the two leaders are expected to discuss trade and international security.
Britain remains the largest market for Spanish exports outside the EU, with sales reaching €24.4 billion in 2024.
Sanchez will also join business leaders from both countries, with Santander, BP, and AstraZeneca among the companies represented.
Foreign policy will also be on the table. Starmer has been pushing European partners to commit to stronger security guarantees for Ukraine, while Sanchez has opposed deploying European forces during the conflict.
On Gaza, Sanchez has taken a tougher line than many allies, describing Western approaches as flawed. Spain also joined a group of European states in formally recognizing Palestine in 2024, a step the UK has not taken.