The UK and Germany have launched a new security partnership aimed at strengthening cooperation against cyber attacks, sabotage and other hybrid threats, as Prime Minister Andy Burnham travels to Berlin for talks with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

The partnership will involve sharing information and coordinating action to monitor, deter and disrupt hostile activity. The two governments also plan to strengthen resilience around critical national infrastructure, businesses and other important systems.

The UK government said adversaries, particularly Russia, pose a hybrid threat across Europe. The agreement is intended to help Britain and Germany identify and respond to activity that could affect national security and economic stability.

Burnham's visit is also expected to cover Ukraine, Middle East instability and disruption to global trade routes, including the Strait of Hormuz. The leaders are holding their first face-to-face meeting since Burnham became prime minister.

The two countries are also strengthening wider cooperation on science, technology, defence, security and economic growth through the Kensington Treaty, which is being formally ratified during the visit.

The announcement comes amid growing European concern over hybrid threats, including cyber operations and suspected attempts to disrupt critical infrastructure. The UK and Germany say closer cooperation will help improve their ability to detect and respond to such threats.