Bilateral relations

Luxembourg and the United Kingdom enjoy a long‑standing partnership grounded in shared democratic values, a common European heritage, and a strong commitment to the rule of law and human rights. Today, bilateral cooperation spans foreign policy and security, financial services, economic exchanges, and scientific research.

A relationship shaped by history

Diplomatic relations date back to the late 19^th century, and in 2025 the two countries marked 145 years of formal ties. The UK holds a special place in Luxembourg’s national memory: during the Second World War, Grand Duchess Charlotte and her family found refuge in Britain after the German invasion. From London, she addressed the Luxembourgish people via the BBC, becoming a symbol of resistance. Her son, the future Grand Duke Jean, took part in the Normandy landings as a volunteer in the British Army. British servicemen also participated in the liberation of Luxembourg, alongside United States forces.

The building that now houses the Luxembourg Embassy in London served as the wartime legation and still displays photographs and testimonies from that period, reflecting the depth of the historical bond. A vibrant Luxembourgish diaspora continues to live in the UK today.

Cultural and societal links also developed early. The Luxembourg Society, founded in London in 1942, promotes friendship between the two countries, in addition to other bilateral associations that continue to strengthen these ties.

A strong political and diplomatic partnership

Bilateral relations are considered particularly positive, supported by regular political exchanges and a shared ambition to deepen cooperation. This commitment was formalised in a Joint Declaration on Bilateral Cooperation signed in London on 11 May 2023 by Luxembourg’s Foreign Minister Jean Asselborn and the UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly. The declaration sets out an expanded framework for collaboration in foreign policy, security and defence, human rights, economy and finance, climate and energy, and mobility, and establishes a regular dialogue to monitor progress.

High‑level visits and frequent ministerial contacts underscore the closeness and pragmatism of the partnership.

Partners in economy, finance, and innovation

Economic and financial ties form one of the most dynamic pillars of the relationship. Luxembourg and the UK are key global financial centres with strong complementarities and shared interests, particularly in the investment fund industry, insurance, and capital markets. Both countries share an interest in sustainable finance and climate‑related investment frameworks.

Regular dialogue takes place between ministries, regulators, and industry bodies. Events such as the annual ALFI London and Defence in Space conferences illustrate the depth of professional interconnection. The Business Club Luxembourg-United Kingdom, launched in June 2022, further strengthens economic links and reflects the UK’s role as one of Luxembourg’s main trading partners for both goods and services.

Academic, cultural, and societal links

Human and cultural connections enrich the institutional partnership. The Society of Luxembourg Students in Britain (SLSB), founded in 1992, brings together Luxembourgish students across the UK. The University of Sheffield hosts the Centre for Luxembourg Studies, established in 1995, which promotes Luxembourg Studies and the teaching of the Luxembourgish language.

Cultural exchange has deep roots: Radio Luxembourg’s English‑language programming from the 1930s onwards helped create an early cross‑border media space and attracted British talent.

Scientific cooperation is also strong, including collaboration between the Fonds national de la Recherche (FNR) and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and joint participation in European research frameworks such as Horizon Europe.