EU-UK relations: Council greenlights talks on electricity and cohesion deals, as well as UK’s participation in Erasmus+ for 2027

On 30 March 2026, the Council formally authorised the Commission to open negotiations with the UK on two agreements regarding the latter’s participation in the EU’s internal electricity market and on an appropriate UK financial contribution to the EU’s cohesion policy. The Council also agreed to allow UK’s participation in the EU’s Erasmus+ programme for the year 2027.

The aim of the electricity agreement is to allow the UK’s participation in the EU’s internal electricity market by aligning respective rules, thus significantly contributing to energy security for both parties, especially amid the current geopolitical turmoil.

The agreement on the UK’s financial contribution towards reducing disparities between the EU regions by increasing the bloc’s economic, social and territorial cohesion is part of a consistent EU policy that couples the granting of market access to a third country with a fair financial contribution reflecting the benefits derived from such access.

Find more information on the official website of the Council of the EU.