UK home secretary, French interior minister discuss counter-terrorism, illegal migration

By Burak Bir

LONDON (AA) - British Home Secretary Suella Braverman on Thursday met with French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin and discussed state security, counter-terrorism and illegal migration.

"The United Kingdom and France are not merely partners or close neighbours, but the firmest of friends," UK Home Office said in a statement.

The meeting was held at the National Crime Agency in London as part of the French interior minister’s first official visit to the British capital.

During the meeting, the two discussed the importance of security in the face of terrorism and state threats, and agreed to continue working "hand in hand" to preserve both countries' joint security, said the statement.

"Ms. Braverman welcomed the fact that between January and May of this year, the French stopped a greater number of people crossing than those who managed to reach the UK," it added.

Braverman and Darmanin also emphasized the importance of continuing close cooperation ahead of the summer months, a period of time when crossing attempts are expected to jump.

"Our cooperation goes from strength to strength, and we are firmly committed to working together in lockstep on our shared global challenges, including stopping the boats," Braverman said following the meeting.

Last November, French and British officials signed an agreement to boost police patrols on beaches in northern France to stop people trying to cross the English Channel in small boats.

Additionally, in a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in March, UK Prime Minister Sunak said the UK will pay France around £476 million ($588 million) over the next three years to help tackle channel crossings.