Fourth GIUK Online Meeting of 2025

Kensington Treaty

On Friday, 14^th November, 2025, some 20 members and guests, attended our fourth GIUK online meeting for members of 2025, chaired by our Chief Executive, Phil McClennon, to discuss the Kensington Treaty. 

Ms Irina Speck, Head of Department for Economics and Global Affairs of the German Embassy, opened the discussion with a very comprehensive overview of the Treaty Between the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Federal Republic of Germany on Friendship and Bilateral Cooperation, called the Kensington Treaty.  The Kensington Treaty covers a broad range of issue from the economy, defence, energy over science and innovation to migration and enhancing the mobility between the two countries.

Ms Speck talked in particular about chapter 4 of the Kensington Treaty which focuses on jointly supporting economic growth, job creation and digital/innovation transitions.  As it is, both economies face similar challenges - low productivity, red tape, and high energy prices. 

A key initiative is the upcoming Business-Government Forum in Berlin which gives companies a direct voice in shaping cooperation with sector specific roundtables. 

Ms Irina Speck`s address was followed by a very lively discussion.

The discussion will continue with HE Susanne Baumann, German Ambassador, at a dinner discussion with her next Thursday evening, 20^th November.