It’s encouraging to see foreign policy receiving significant attention from both major parties in the UK ahead of the upcoming elections. The emphasis placed by Labour and the Conservatives on foreign affairs is unusual for an election year, reflecting the growing importance of these issues in the current global context.

The similarities in their approaches, as highlighted in the Chatham House paper, suggest a emerging pragmatism in British foreign policy. Both parties seem to recognize the need for a realistic assessment of the UK’s influence and the hard choices that must be made by the next government.

The Chatham House paper’s recommendations provide a roadmap for the incoming administration, outlining three key priorities:

1. Prioritizing key relationships: The next government must focus on nurturing and strengthening vital relationships, likely with the United States, European Union, and other crucial allies and partners.
2. Increased spending and resources: To effectively pursue its foreign policy objectives, the UK will likely need to allocate more resources and funding to its diplomatic efforts and international engagements.
3. Pragmatic decision-making: The paper emphasizes the need for a pragmatic approach, carefully evaluating where the UK retains influence and making difficult choices accordingly.

While there may be differences between Labour and the Conservatives on specific issues like the Rwanda policy and the UK’s relationship with Europe, their overall approaches to foreign policy seem aligned on key priorities such as supporting Ukraine, navigating the complex dynamics with China, and maintaining support for Israel’s security while criticizing actions that undermine peace.

However, translating these shared principles into concrete policies and actions will require tough decisions and trade-offs. The next government, whether led by Labour or the Conservatives, will face significant challenges in balancing competing interests, allocating limited resources, and navigating an increasingly complex global landscape.

The Chatham House paper provides a valuable framework for the incoming administration to navigate these challenges and prioritize the most pressing foreign policy issues. Ultimately, the success of the UK’s foreign policy will depend on the government’s ability to make difficult choices, leverage its influence effectively, and maintain a pragmatic and principled approach in pursuit of its national interests and values.