UK

Brexit: European presidents sign withdrawal agreement

Michel and von der Leyen sign document ahead of Britain’s exit from EU next week

There was mixed emotions among British MEPs as they cleared their offices in Brussels. For some it was a moment to lament the Brexit process, while for others it was a time for celebration. Video: Reuters

Fri Jan 24 2020 - 09:26

The presidents of the European Council and the European Commission have formally signed the Brexit withdrawal agreement ahead of Britain's departure from the EU next week.

Charles Michel and Ursula von der Leyen put their signatures to the document in Brussels after the Queen gave royal assent to the legislation implementing the agreement on Thursday.

The European Parliament is now expected to vote to approve the agreement on Wednesday, paving the way for the UK to leave on Friday next week, January 31st.

It will mark the start of an 11-month transition period, during which the UK will continue to follow EU rules, before the final break with Brussels at the end of the year.

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British prime minister Boris Johnson has said that he wants to negotiate a comprehensive free trade deal with the EU by the end of the year.

However, Ms von der Leyen and other senior EU figures have warned the British government’s stated intention to end the UK’s alignment with EU regulations means it will be impossible to achieve within such a tight timetable.

Mr Johnson, however, remains upbeat, insisting Britain can now move forward after years of wrangling over Brexit.

“At times it felt like we would never cross the Brexit finish line, but we’ve done it,” he said.

“Now we can put the rancour and division of the past three years behind us and focus on delivering a bright, exciting future.”–PA

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