The leaders of the 27 other European Union members states on Sunday approved the terms of a historic Brexit deal with Britain, at a special summit in Brussels.

"EU27 has endorsed the withdrawal agreement and political declaration on the future EU-UK relations," EU Council President Donald Tusk announced on Twitter.

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EU27 has endorsed the Withdrawal Agreement and Political Declaration on the future EU-UK relations.
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The formal conclusions state that the Council of EU leaders "endorses the agreement on the withdrawal of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland from the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community."

It invites all EU institutions "to take the necessary steps to ensure that the agreement can enter into force on 30 March 2019, so as to provide for an orderly withdrawal".

Britain will leave the EU on March 29.

The statement also gives formal approval to the political declaration on future ties between Britain and the bloc, which covers issues including trade, security and the environment.

"The European Council restates the union's determination to have as close as possible a partnership with the United Kingdom in the future in line with the political declaration," it said.&nbsp;

They thanked chief EU negotiator Michel Barnier for "his tireless efforts".

The leaders of the 27 other European Union members states on Sunday approved the terms of a historic Brexit deal with Britain, at a special summit in Brussels. "EU27 has endorsed the withdrawal agreement and political declaration on the future EU-UK relations," EU Council President Donald Tusk announced on Twitter.

The leaders of the 27 other European Union members states on Sunday approved the terms of a historic Brexit deal with Britain, at a special summit in Brussels. "EU27 has endorsed the withdrawal agreement and political declaration on the future EU-UK relations," EU Council President Donald Tusk announced on Twitter. EU27 has endorsed the Withdrawal Agreement and Political Declaration on the future EU-UK relations. — Donald Tusk (@eucopresident) November 25, 2018 × The formal conclusions state that the Council of EU leaders "endorses the agreement on the withdrawal of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland from the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community." It invites all EU institutions "to take the necessary steps to ensure that the agreement can enter into force on 30 March 2019, so as to provide for an orderly withdrawal". Britain will leave the EU on March 29. The statement also gives formal approval to the political declaration on future ties between Britain and the bloc, which covers issues including trade, security and the environment. "The European Council restates the union's determination to have as close as possible a partnership with the United Kingdom in the future in line with the political declaration," it said. They thanked chief EU negotiator Michel Barnier for "his tireless efforts".

27 European Union leaders approve Brexit deal with Britain: EU Council President

A day after British <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-may-hails-brexit-deal-but-her-mps-says-it-threatens-uks-unity-177389">Prime Minister Theresa May declared she</a> had won the support of her cabinet on Brexit, European Council president Donald Tusk said today that the summit will formalise the Brexit deal on November 25th.

"If nothing extraordinary happens, we will hold a European Council meeting in order to finalise and formalise the Brexit agreement. It will take place on Sunday, the 25th of November at 9:30 am," Tusk announced.

As the announcement was made by Tusk, junior Northern Ireland minister&nbsp;Shailesh Vara quit the British government over the Brexit deal.

"With respect, prime minister, this agreement does not provide for the United Kingdom being a sovereign, independent country leaving the shackles of the EU, however, it is worded," he wrote.

"We are a proud nation and it is a sad day when we are reduced to obeying rules made by other countries who have shown that they do not have our best interests at heart," he said.

"We can and must do better than this. The people of the UK deserve better," he added.

European Union's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier had said earlier that “decisive progress” has been made in Brexit talks with Britain. Barnier's statement was taken up by the president of the European Council Tusk who called for an extraordinary summit.

Theresa May had said yesterday that she had the "collective" backing of her cabinet to move Britain out of the Europen Union after a gruelling five-hour meeting. Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar had said he expected the 28 leaders to meet on November 25.

"The collective decision of cabinet was that the government should agree the draft withdrawal agreement and the outline political declaration," May had said. The draft, however, needs to be passed by the Parliament.

EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker had tweeted that he had sent Tusk a letter recommending that he "find that decisive progress has been made in the negotiations on the orderly withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union."

However, there are still several points of contention including the status of Northern Ireland which is likely to have "special status" aligning it to the &nbsp;European single market which was resisted by Scotland politicians who have questioned the deal.

Nationalist leader Nicola Sturgeon had asked why Northern Ireland should have a special status that would keep it in the European single market while Scotland is forced out along with the entire country.

Britain has been part of the European Union for the past 46 years but British citizen had decided to pull the country out of the European Union two years in an open referendum.

Last week, The European Union and the British government had jointly published a 585-page detailed draft agreement of their Brexit deal that needed the approval of EU leaders and the British parliament.

A day after British Prime Minister Theresa May declared she had won the support of her cabinet on Brexit, European Council president Donald Tusk said today that the summit will formalise the Brexit deal on November 25th.

A day after British Prime Minister Theresa May declared she had won the support of her cabinet on Brexit, European Council president Donald Tusk said today that the summit will formalise the Brexit deal on November 25th. "If nothing extraordinary happens, we will hold a European Council meeting in order to finalise and formalise the Brexit agreement. It will take place on Sunday, the 25th of November at 9:30 am," Tusk announced. As the announcement was made by Tusk, junior Northern Ireland minister Shailesh Vara quit the British government over the Brexit deal. "With respect, prime minister, this agreement does not provide for the United Kingdom being a sovereign, independent country leaving the shackles of the EU, however, it is worded," he wrote. "We are a proud nation and it is a sad day when we are reduced to obeying rules made by other countries who have shown that they do not have our best interests at heart," he said. "We can and must do better than this. The people of the UK deserve better," he added. European Union's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier had said earlier that “decisive progress” has been made in Brexit talks with Britain. Barnier's statement was taken up by the president of the European Council Tusk who called for an extraordinary summit. Theresa May had said yesterday that she had the "collective" backing of her cabinet to move Britain out of the Europen Union after a gruelling five-hour meeting. Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar had said he expected the 28 leaders to meet on November 25. "The collective decision of cabinet was that the government should agree the draft withdrawal agreement and the outline political declaration," May had said. The draft, however, needs to be passed by the Parliament. EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker had tweeted that he had sent Tusk a letter recommending that he "find that decisive progress has been made in the negotiations on the orderly withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union." However, there are still several points of contention including the status of Northern Ireland which is likely to have "special status" aligning it to the European single market which was resisted by Scotland politicians who have questioned the deal. Nationalist leader Nicola Sturgeon had asked why Northern Ireland should have a special status that would keep it in the European single market while Scotland is forced out along with the entire country. Britain has been part of the European Union for the past 46 years but British citizen had decided to pull the country out of the European Union two years in an open referendum. Last week, The European Union and the British government had jointly published a 585-page detailed draft agreement of their Brexit deal that needed the approval of EU leaders and the British parliament.

European Council to meet on November 25th to formalise Brexit; Northern Ireland minister quits PM May's cabinet

European Council President Donald Tusk said on Saturday it was possible to agree a deal with Britain on leaving the European Union by the end of 2018.

Speaking on the sidelines of a conference in Krakow, Poland, Tusk said: "We will try for it in October ... and I think there is a chance to have an accord by the end of the year."

On Friday, EU Brexit negotiators told ambassadors of the 27 states remaining in the bloc that there was no breakthrough on the Irish issue and much would depend on what their British counterparts bring to Brussels next week.

Britain and the EU are trying to push the divorce deal as well as an agreement on post-Brexit relations in time for two leaders' summits scheduled for October 17-18 and November 17-18.

European Council President Donald Tusk said on Saturday it was possible to agree a deal with Britain on leaving the European Union by the end of 2018. Speaking on the sidelines of a conference in Krakow, Poland, Tusk said: "We will try for it in October .

European Council President Donald Tusk said on Saturday it was possible to agree a deal with Britain on leaving the European Union by the end of 2018. Speaking on the sidelines of a conference in Krakow, Poland, Tusk said: "We will try for it in October ... and I think there is a chance to have an accord by the end of the year." On Friday, EU Brexit negotiators told ambassadors of the 27 states remaining in the bloc that there was no breakthrough on the Irish issue and much would depend on what their British counterparts bring to Brussels next week. Britain and the EU are trying to push the divorce deal as well as an agreement on post-Brexit relations in time for two leaders' summits scheduled for October 17-18 and November 17-18.

Brexit deal possible by end of 2018: European Council President Donald Tusk

British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt on Saturday accused EU Council President Donald Tusk of "insulting the British people" by needling Prime Minister Theresa May in a viral social media post.

Tusk created a mini-sensation during a difficult EU summit on Brexit in Salzburg by posting a photo on Instagram of himself offering May a tray of cakes.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-ideas-on-post-brexit-ties-are-pure-illusion-says-european-council-president-donald-tusk-33863">UK ideas on post-Brexit ties are 'pure illusion', says European Council President Donald Tusk</a>

"A piece of cake, perhaps?" Tusk wrote alongside the picture. "Sorry, no cherries."

The comment was a biting reference to accusations by Brussels that May was "cherry-picking" the best parts of EU membership while leaving the bloc.

Her divorce proposal envisions a UK-EU free trade area for goods through a common rulebook.

But it would abandon the bloc's right to the free movement of people and see Britain adopt its own migration policy.

The EU wants to make sure the remaining 27 members do not follow Britain's example by trying to leave while preserving the benefits of free trade.

May's plan was rebuffed in Salzburg on Thursday and Tusk's post only added to what several British newspapers called her "humiliation".

The prime minister tried to regain her footing by delivering a tough television address on Friday demanding that Britain be treated with "respect".

That message was picked up and taken a step further by Hunt in an appearance on the BBC's Today radio programme on Saturday.

"Don't mistake British politeness for weakness," Hunt said.

"We need to get the tone right and insulting her, insulting the British people on social media, getting into these standoffs where you're calling people liars and so on is not the way we are going to find a solution to this difficult situation."

Tusk issued a statement on Friday evening calling himself "a close friend of the UK and a true admirer of PM May". French President Emmanuel Macron had earlier mocked some pro-Brexit British politicians as "liars."

'Plan B'

How the two sides intend to move forward with the clock ticking down to the March 29 Brexit deadline remains unclear.

Pressure is mounting on May from eurosceptics in her Tory party to abandon the so-called "Chequers" proposal for a less ambitious one that would not maintain such close EU-UK ties.

The Daily Telegraph reported that ministers intended to use a cabinet meeting on Monday to call on May to develop a "Plan B" alternative to Chequers.

May continued to insist on Friday that there were only two options on the table: trying to find a compromise on her proposal or no deal at all.

She added that it was now the EU's turn to make a counter-proposal.

"We now need to hear from the EU what the real issues are and what their alternative is so that we can discuss them. Until we do, we cannot make progress," May said.

But Hunt refused to rule out looking into an alternative to Chequers such as the deal Canada signed with the EU in 2016.

"I'm not dismissive of anything," Hunt said.

"We have been clear that we are prepared to negotiate on the Chequers proposal, but we can't talk to a void."

Canada has a much looser free trade deal that does not remove non-tariff barriers to trade.

 
May said on Friday that a basic free trade agreement of that type would see Northern Ireland "permanently separated economically from the rest of the UK".

British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt on Saturday accused EU Council President Donald Tusk of "insulting the British people" by needling Prime Minister Theresa May in a viral social media post.

British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt on Saturday accused EU Council President Donald Tusk of "insulting the British people" by needling Prime Minister Theresa May in a viral social media post. Tusk created a mini-sensation during a difficult EU summit on Brexit in Salzburg by posting a photo on Instagram of himself offering May a tray of cakes. Also read: UK ideas on post-Brexit ties are 'pure illusion', says European Council President Donald Tusk "A piece of cake, perhaps?" Tusk wrote alongside the picture. "Sorry, no cherries." The comment was a biting reference to accusations by Brussels that May was "cherry-picking" the best parts of EU membership while leaving the bloc. Her divorce proposal envisions a UK-EU free trade area for goods through a common rulebook. But it would abandon the bloc's right to the free movement of people and see Britain adopt its own migration policy. The EU wants to make sure the remaining 27 members do not follow Britain's example by trying to leave while preserving the benefits of free trade. May's plan was rebuffed in Salzburg on Thursday and Tusk's post only added to what several British newspapers called her "humiliation". The prime minister tried to regain her footing by delivering a tough television address on Friday demanding that Britain be treated with "respect". That message was picked up and taken a step further by Hunt in an appearance on the BBC's Today radio programme on Saturday. "Don't mistake British politeness for weakness," Hunt said. "We need to get the tone right and insulting her, insulting the British people on social media, getting into these standoffs where you're calling people liars and so on is not the way we are going to find a solution to this difficult situation." Tusk issued a statement on Friday evening calling himself "a close friend of the UK and a true admirer of PM May". French President Emmanuel Macron had earlier mocked some pro-Brexit British politicians as "liars." 'Plan B' How the two sides intend to move forward with the clock ticking down to the March 29 Brexit deadline remains unclear. Pressure is mounting on May from eurosceptics in her Tory party to abandon the so-called "Chequers" proposal for a less ambitious one that would not maintain such close EU-UK ties. The Daily Telegraph reported that ministers intended to use a cabinet meeting on Monday to call on May to develop a "Plan B" alternative to Chequers. May continued to insist on Friday that there were only two options on the table: trying to find a compromise on her proposal or no deal at all. She added that it was now the EU's turn to make a counter-proposal. "We now need to hear from the EU what the real issues are and what their alternative is so that we can discuss them. Until we do, we cannot make progress," May said. But Hunt refused to rule out looking into an alternative to Chequers such as the deal Canada signed with the EU in 2016. "I'm not dismissive of anything," Hunt said. "We have been clear that we are prepared to negotiate on the Chequers proposal, but we can't talk to a void." Canada has a much looser free trade deal that does not remove non-tariff barriers to trade. May said on Friday that a basic free trade agreement of that type would see Northern Ireland "permanently separated economically from the rest of the UK".

Britain fumes at 'insulting' Tusk post about PM's Brexit plan

The European Union's top official launched a stinging attack on President Donald Trump, slamming his "capricious assertiveness" and saying the US leader acted more like an enemy than a friend.

EU president Donald Tusk yesterday urged leaders meeting in Bulgaria to form a "united European front" against Trump's withdrawal from the Iranian nuclear deal and his move to impose trade tariffs on Europe.

Tusk even compared the US administration to Europe's traditional foes Moscow and Beijing as he launched his broadside before a dinner of the 28 leaders in Sofia where they discussed the issue.

"Looking at the latest decisions of President Trump, someone could even think with friends like that, who needs enemies," Tusk told reporters.

"But frankly speaking, Europe should be grateful to President Trump, because thanks to him we have got rid of all illusions. He has made us realise that if you need a helping hand you will find one at the end of your arm."

The transatlantic rift has hijacked the agenda of a summit&nbsp;on Thursday&nbsp;at which the EU leaders will meet their Balkan counterparts in a bid to foster closer ties and keep Russia out of their backyard.

European ministers met a top Iranian official in Brussels&nbsp;on Tuesday&nbsp;in a bid to save the Iranian nuclear accord after Trump decided to pull out.

Meanwhile, the EU is still trying to win exemptions from tariffs on steel and aluminium exports.

Tusk called for more unity in the divided EU -- which is set to lose Britain as a member next year -- to face the growing challenges.

"Besides the traditional political challenges such as the rise of China or the aggressive stance of Russia, we are witnessing today a new phenomenon: the capricious assertiveness of the American administration," Tusk said.

"I have no doubt that in the new global game, Europe will either be one of the major players, or a pawn. This is the only real alternative."

After the talks, a European source told AFP the leaders agreed on a "united EU approach" on the Iran deal, including continued support for the agreement if Tehran abides by it.

They also agreed to "initiate work to protect European companies negatively affected by the US decision," which involves Washington reimposing sanctions on the Iranian nuclear programme.

"The EU will continue fighting for a rules-based international system despite recent decisions on climate change, tariffs and Iran," the source said after the leaders met over dinner in Sofia.

British Prime Minister Theresa May, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron -- whose countries are the signatories to the Iran deal along with the US, Russia and China, gave their views on the situation to their colleagues, he said.

Merkel, however&nbsp;said earlier that Europe had no choice but to stick with the ties that have bound it to Washington since World War II.&nbsp;

EU president Donald Tusk yesterday urged leaders meeting in Bulgaria to form a 'united European front' against Trump's withdrawal from the Iranian nuclear deal and his move to impose trade tariffs on Europe

The European Union's top official launched a stinging attack on President Donald Trump, slamming his "capricious assertiveness" and saying the US leader acted more like an enemy than a friend. EU president Donald Tusk yesterday urged leaders meeting in Bulgaria to form a "united European front" against Trump's withdrawal from the Iranian nuclear deal and his move to impose trade tariffs on Europe. Tusk even compared the US administration to Europe's traditional foes Moscow and Beijing as he launched his broadside before a dinner of the 28 leaders in Sofia where they discussed the issue. "Looking at the latest decisions of President Trump, someone could even think with friends like that, who needs enemies," Tusk told reporters. "But frankly speaking, Europe should be grateful to President Trump, because thanks to him we have got rid of all illusions. He has made us realise that if you need a helping hand you will find one at the end of your arm." The transatlantic rift has hijacked the agenda of a summit on Thursday at which the EU leaders will meet their Balkan counterparts in a bid to foster closer ties and keep Russia out of their backyard. European ministers met a top Iranian official in Brussels on Tuesday in a bid to save the Iranian nuclear accord after Trump decided to pull out. Meanwhile, the EU is still trying to win exemptions from tariffs on steel and aluminium exports. Tusk called for more unity in the divided EU -- which is set to lose Britain as a member next year -- to face the growing challenges. "Besides the traditional political challenges such as the rise of China or the aggressive stance of Russia, we are witnessing today a new phenomenon: the capricious assertiveness of the American administration," Tusk said. "I have no doubt that in the new global game, Europe will either be one of the major players, or a pawn. This is the only real alternative." After the talks, a European source told AFP the leaders agreed on a "united EU approach" on the Iran deal, including continued support for the agreement if Tehran abides by it. They also agreed to "initiate work to protect European companies negatively affected by the US decision," which involves Washington reimposing sanctions on the Iranian nuclear programme. "The EU will continue fighting for a rules-based international system despite recent decisions on climate change, tariffs and Iran," the source said after the leaders met over dinner in Sofia. British Prime Minister Theresa May, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron -- whose countries are the signatories to the Iran deal along with the US, Russia and China, gave their views on the situation to their colleagues, he said. Merkel, however said earlier that Europe had no choice but to stick with the ties that have bound it to Washington since World War II.

With friends like Trump, who needs enemies: EU chief

Prime Minister Theresa May promised Britain bright prospects outside the European Union on Thursday as she toured a country still profoundly divided about its future as the countdown to Brexit enters its final 12 months.

Britain is on course to leave the European Union at 2300 GMT on March 29, 2019, severing ties that helped define its national identity, its laws, and its international stature over 46 years of integration with European neighbours.

The people of Britain, the world's sixth-largest economy, caused a major global shock in 2016 by voting narrowly to quit the EU after a fevered referendum campaign that sharpened regional divisions, pitted young against old and exposed a deep distrust between voters and the political establishment.

In the 21 months since the referendum, May, who became prime minister in the resulting political chaos, has struggled to unite the country behind a single vision of Brexit.

Voters' disparate views on leaving are entrenched, and few have any certainty about Britain's long-term future.

May will meet voters in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland on a whirlwind tour designed as a rallying cry for the union between the four nations of the United Kingdom, and to paint a positive post-Brexit vision.

"I am determined that our future will be a bright one," she said ahead of the roughly 800-mile (1,280 km) trip ending in London.

Starting her tour in Scotland, May met workers in a textile factory, focusing on the future benefits she said Brexit could bring for trade.

"I believe that we can negotiate a good agreement which is tariff-free and as frictionless trade as possible, so we maintain those markets in the EU, but also that we open up market around the rest of the world. Brexit provides us with opportunities," she told broadcasters.

The EU maintains that by leaving its single market and customs union, Britain will be making trade more difficult.

EU Council President Donald Tusk has remarked that any trade deal with Britain would be the first in history to loosen economic links rather than strengthen them.

Long way to go

May, 61, has 12 months to plot a successful course through difficult political and economic terrain.

Brexiteers fret that the EU divorce is taking too long and could be reversed. Pro-EU campaigners still push for a less radical exit or a second referendum.

A ComRes opinion poll published on Thursday showed 44 per cent of people thought the government's handling of the negotiations had been "a total shambles". Only 29 per cent were optimistic their households would be better off after Brexit.

Britain's economy has defied pre-referendum predictions of a swift plunge into recession, buoyed in part by stronger global growth. But longer term forecasts show growth grinding lower over the next five years and lagging international rivals.

At home, May only has a small majority in parliament and must find a way to corral her Conservative Party, which is still split over the best Brexit plan, into backing legislation that will prepare Britain for life outside the bloc.

That task has so far swamped her government and its administrative machine, leading to accusations she has taken the eye off the ball on domestic policy and given the socialist-led Labour Party a chance to build support ahead of a 2022 election.

In Brussels, May's ministers have won little in the way of concessions from the EU negotiating team, setting a difficult tone for upcoming talks on long-term trading ties - particularly when it comes to the future of Britain's economic engine: its financial services sector.

But, a transitional deal that effectively keeps Britain inside the EU single market until the end of 2020, agreed in principle last week with Brussels, has calmed anxious businesses and bought May time to work out the details of post-Brexit policy.

Among those challenges will be holding together the United Kingdom, made up of four nations which diverged at the referendum: Wales and England voted to leave the EU, Scotland and Northern Ireland voted to remain.

Scotland and Wales are drawing up contingency plans to protect their own interests in case they cannot reach agreement with May on how powers regained from Brussels are redistributed.

Northern Ireland is into a second year of a political crisis that has left it without a devolved administration, and the future management of its land border with EU-member Ireland is one of the thorniest issues outstanding in talks with Brussels.

Against that backdrop, May's tour is focused on meeting a cross-section of voters to reassure them that she is working to tear down the barriers thrown up by the referendum, and that whether they voted "Leave" or "Remain", they will be better off after Brexit.

"I am determined that as we leave the EU, and in the years ahead, we will strengthen the bonds that unite us, because ours is the world’s most successful union," she said in her statement.

Prime Minister Theresa May promised Britain bright prospects outside the European Union on Thursday as she toured a country still profoundly divided about its future as the countdown to Brexit enters its final 12 months

Prime Minister Theresa May promised Britain bright prospects outside the European Union on Thursday as she toured a country still profoundly divided about its future as the countdown to Brexit enters its final 12 months. Britain is on course to leave the European Union at 2300 GMT on March 29, 2019, severing ties that helped define its national identity, its laws, and its international stature over 46 years of integration with European neighbours. The people of Britain, the world's sixth-largest economy, caused a major global shock in 2016 by voting narrowly to quit the EU after a fevered referendum campaign that sharpened regional divisions, pitted young against old and exposed a deep distrust between voters and the political establishment. In the 21 months since the referendum, May, who became prime minister in the resulting political chaos, has struggled to unite the country behind a single vision of Brexit. Voters' disparate views on leaving are entrenched, and few have any certainty about Britain's long-term future. May will meet voters in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland on a whirlwind tour designed as a rallying cry for the union between the four nations of the United Kingdom, and to paint a positive post-Brexit vision. "I am determined that our future will be a bright one," she said ahead of the roughly 800-mile (1,280 km) trip ending in London. Starting her tour in Scotland, May met workers in a textile factory, focusing on the future benefits she said Brexit could bring for trade. "I believe that we can negotiate a good agreement which is tariff-free and as frictionless trade as possible, so we maintain those markets in the EU, but also that we open up market around the rest of the world. Brexit provides us with opportunities," she told broadcasters. The EU maintains that by leaving its single market and customs union, Britain will be making trade more difficult. EU Council President Donald Tusk has remarked that any trade deal with Britain would be the first in history to loosen economic links rather than strengthen them. Long way to go May, 61, has 12 months to plot a successful course through difficult political and economic terrain. Brexiteers fret that the EU divorce is taking too long and could be reversed. Pro-EU campaigners still push for a less radical exit or a second referendum. A ComRes opinion poll published on Thursday showed 44 per cent of people thought the government's handling of the negotiations had been "a total shambles". Only 29 per cent were optimistic their households would be better off after Brexit. Britain's economy has defied pre-referendum predictions of a swift plunge into recession, buoyed in part by stronger global growth. But longer term forecasts show growth grinding lower over the next five years and lagging international rivals. At home, May only has a small majority in parliament and must find a way to corral her Conservative Party, which is still split over the best Brexit plan, into backing legislation that will prepare Britain for life outside the bloc. That task has so far swamped her government and its administrative machine, leading to accusations she has taken the eye off the ball on domestic policy and given the socialist-led Labour Party a chance to build support ahead of a 2022 election. In Brussels, May's ministers have won little in the way of concessions from the EU negotiating team, setting a difficult tone for upcoming talks on long-term trading ties - particularly when it comes to the future of Britain's economic engine: its financial services sector. But, a transitional deal that effectively keeps Britain inside the EU single market until the end of 2020, agreed in principle last week with Brussels, has calmed anxious businesses and bought May time to work out the details of post-Brexit policy. Among those challenges will be holding together the United Kingdom, made up of four nations which diverged at the referendum: Wales and England voted to leave the EU, Scotland and Northern Ireland voted to remain. Scotland and Wales are drawing up contingency plans to protect their own interests in case they cannot reach agreement with May on how powers regained from Brussels are redistributed. Northern Ireland is into a second year of a political crisis that has left it without a devolved administration, and the future management of its land border with EU-member Ireland is one of the thorniest issues outstanding in talks with Brussels. Against that backdrop, May's tour is focused on meeting a cross-section of voters to reassure them that she is working to tear down the barriers thrown up by the referendum, and that whether they voted "Leave" or "Remain", they will be better off after Brexit. "I am determined that as we leave the EU, and in the years ahead, we will strengthen the bonds that unite us, because ours is the world’s most successful union," she said in her statement.

The future is bright, vows PM May on tour of Brexit-divided country

The United States, EU members, NATO and other nations across three continents have announced the expulsion of over 150 Russian diplomats in a coordinated action against Moscow which they accuse of poisoning an ex-spy in Britain.

Here is a list updated to Wednesday of the countries involved and the number of Russians already expelled or put on notice to leave.

US, Canada, Australia

The United States: Expelled 60 alleged "spies" posted around the country and at the Russian mission to the United Nations.&nbsp

It also closed the Russian consulate in Seattle over alleged spying at the nearby Kitsap submarine base and Boeing.

The retaliation against Moscow was taken "in response to Russia's use of a military-grade chemical weapon on the soil of the United Kingdom," White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said.

Canada: Ousted four diplomats, calling the nerve agent attack "a despicable, heinous and reckless act".

Australia: Followed suit with Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull saying two Russian diplomats had seven days to leave.

NATO&nbsp

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said the alliance was expelling seven Russian diplomats and denying accreditation to three more.

"This will send a clear message to Russia that there are costs and consequences for their unacceptable pattern of behaviour," Stoltenberg said.

European Union

Eighteen EU nations have joined Britain in deciding to expel Russian diplomats following a European Council decision last week to react to Moscow within a common framework.

"Additional measures including further expulsions are not to be excluded in the coming days and weeks," EU President Donald Tusk said.

Britain: Already kicked out 23 Russian diplomats, with Moscow retaliating with a tit-for-tat move.

Belgium: One diplomat

Croatia: One diplomat

Czech Republic: Three diplomats

Denmark: Two diplomats

Estonia: One diplomat

France: Four diplomats&nbsp

Finland: One diplomat

Germany: Four diplomats

Hungary: One diplomat

Ireland: One diplomat

Italy: Two diplomats

Latvia: One diplomat

Lithuania: Three diplomats

Netherlands: Two diplomats

Poland: Four diplomats

Romania: One diplomat

Spain: Two diplomats

Sweden: One diplomat

Outside EU

Albania: Two diplomats

Macedonia: One diplomat

Moldova: three diplomats

Norway: One diplomat

Ukraine: 13 diplomats

President Petro Poroshenko called for even more action to be taken.

"The next step is to increase the price that Moscow has to pay for its international crimes, including the strengthening of personal, financial and economic sanctions," he said.

Additionally, EU members Bulgaria, Luxembourg, Portugal and Slovakia have recalled their ambassadors for consultations but my Wednesday had yet to expel any Russians

The United States, EU members, NATO and other nations across three continents have announced the expulsion of over 150 Russian diplomats in a coordinated action against Moscow which they accuse of poisoning an ex-spy in Britain

The United States, EU members, NATO and other nations across three continents have announced the expulsion of over 150 Russian diplomats in a coordinated action against Moscow which they accuse of poisoning an ex-spy in Britain. Here is a list updated to Wednesday of the countries involved and the number of Russians already expelled or put on notice to leave. US, Canada, Australia The United States: Expelled 60 alleged "spies" posted around the country and at the Russian mission to the United Nations. It also closed the Russian consulate in Seattle over alleged spying at the nearby Kitsap submarine base and Boeing. The retaliation against Moscow was taken "in response to Russia's use of a military-grade chemical weapon on the soil of the United Kingdom," White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said. Canada: Ousted four diplomats, calling the nerve agent attack "a despicable, heinous and reckless act". Australia: Followed suit with Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull saying two Russian diplomats had seven days to leave. NATO NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said the alliance was expelling seven Russian diplomats and denying accreditation to three more. "This will send a clear message to Russia that there are costs and consequences for their unacceptable pattern of behaviour," Stoltenberg said. European Union Eighteen EU nations have joined Britain in deciding to expel Russian diplomats following a European Council decision last week to react to Moscow within a common framework. "Additional measures including further expulsions are not to be excluded in the coming days and weeks," EU President Donald Tusk said. Britain: Already kicked out 23 Russian diplomats, with Moscow retaliating with a tit-for-tat move. Belgium: One diplomat Croatia: One diplomat Czech Republic: Three diplomats Denmark: Two diplomats Estonia: One diplomat France: Four diplomats Finland: One diplomat Germany: Four diplomats Hungary: One diplomat Ireland: One diplomat Italy: Two diplomats Latvia: One diplomat Lithuania: Three diplomats Netherlands: Two diplomats Poland: Four diplomats Romania: One diplomat Spain: Two diplomats Sweden: One diplomat Outside EU Albania: Two diplomats Macedonia: One diplomat Moldova: three diplomats Norway: One diplomat Ukraine: 13 diplomats President Petro Poroshenko called for even more action to be taken. "The next step is to increase the price that Moscow has to pay for its international crimes, including the strengthening of personal, financial and economic sanctions," he said. Additionally, EU members Bulgaria, Luxembourg, Portugal and Slovakia have recalled their ambassadors for consultations but my Wednesday had yet to expel any Russians

United States, EU, NATO and other countries announces expulsion of over 150 Russian diplomats

European Union leaders will Thursday press tech giants to protect personal data in the wake of the scandal over information harvested from Facebook, draft summit conclusions said.

The Brussels summit is tackling the row over the misuse of Facebook data by British firm Cambridge Analytica, which played a role in US President Donald Trump&#39;s election campaign.

&quot;Social networks and digital platforms need to guarantee transparent practices and full protection of citizens&#39; privacy and personal data,&quot; said the draft statement.

The leaders will further discuss the issue at a summit in the Bulgarian capital Sofia in May, it added.

EU President Donald Tusk announced on Wednesday that it would be added to the summit agenda at the last minute.

Tusk said leaders would tackle issues &quot;undermining trust in our democracies through fake news or election meddling&quot;.

He said this was &quot;particularly relevant in view of the recent revelations about Cambridge Analytica.&quot;

The EU leaders are taking up the issue following calls for an investigation by both the European Commission and the European Parliament, which has invited Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg to speak to the assembly.

During a visit to the United States on Wednesday, EU justice commissioner Vera Jourova warned that Europe&#39;s General Data Protection Regulation would make it &quot;very, very expensive&quot; for violators once the legislation enters force on May 25.

Jourova added she is waiting &quot;impatiently&quot; for answers on the data breach after she failed to meet with a Facebook official specifically to discuss the problem.

Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg vowed Wednesday to &quot;step up&quot; to fix problems at the social media giant.

The EU unveiled on Wednesday proposals for a digital tax that targets US tech giants including Facebook.

European Union leaders will Thursday press tech giants to protect personal data in the wake of the scandal over information harvested from Facebook, draft summit conclusions said

European Union leaders will Thursday press tech giants to protect personal data in the wake of the scandal over information harvested from Facebook, draft summit conclusions said. The Brussels summit is tackling the row over the misuse of Facebook data by British firm Cambridge Analytica, which played a role in US President Donald Trump's election campaign. "Social networks and digital platforms need to guarantee transparent practices and full protection of citizens' privacy and personal data," said the draft statement. The leaders will further discuss the issue at a summit in the Bulgarian capital Sofia in May, it added. EU President Donald Tusk announced on Wednesday that it would be added to the summit agenda at the last minute. Tusk said leaders would tackle issues "undermining trust in our democracies through fake news or election meddling". He said this was "particularly relevant in view of the recent revelations about Cambridge Analytica." The EU leaders are taking up the issue following calls for an investigation by both the European Commission and the European Parliament, which has invited Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg to speak to the assembly. During a visit to the United States on Wednesday, EU justice commissioner Vera Jourova warned that Europe's General Data Protection Regulation would make it "very, very expensive" for violators once the legislation enters force on May 25. Jourova added she is waiting "impatiently" for answers on the data breach after she failed to meet with a Facebook official specifically to discuss the problem. Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg vowed Wednesday to "step up" to fix problems at the social media giant. The EU unveiled on Wednesday proposals for a digital tax that targets US tech giants including Facebook.

European Union leaders urge privacy protection amid Facebook row

European Council President Donald Tusk on Friday dismissed as &quot;pure illusion&quot; the ideas floated by Britain so far on what sort of relationship it wants with the European Union after it leaves the bloc.

Tusk said he hoped to get more clarity when he meets Theresa May next Thursday, a day before the British prime minister is due to deliver a speech to outline London&#39;s vision of its future ties with the EU.

&quot;I am glad that the UK government seems to be moving towards a more detailed position,&quot; Tusk told journalists after 27 EU leaders - all apart from May - met in Brussels on Friday.

&quot;However ... I am afraid that the UK position today is based on pure illusion. It seems like the &#39;cake&#39; philosophy is still alive. From the very start it has been a key clear principle of the EU 27 that there can be no cherry-picking and no single market &#39;a la carte&#39;.&quot;

British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson has famously said he wants Britain to get the best of both worlds - to &quot;have its cake and eat it&quot;.

EU leaders have long been asking May for details of London&#39;s vision for future relations, but she has been hampered by divisions within her ruling Conservative Party, with some backing close trading ties and others seeking a &quot;clean break&quot;.

The cake problem

Tusk said the remaining 27 EU states would adopt their joint stance on that in March, whether London provided input or not. He said the bloc would be &quot;extremely realistic in our assessment of possible new proposals&quot;.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, who saw May this week, echoed those comments in talking to reporters separately after the Brussels meeting.

&quot;I made it clear to Theresa May that I believe it is crucial for the UK to set out its position on the transition, on issues like the Irish border, and particularly on the future relationship,&quot; he said.

&quot;We don&#39;t like cherry-picking, so it will be difficult to come to a bespoke deal along the lines that some in the UK are suggesting.&quot;

The EU has rejected British ideas for a three-pronged deal in which Britain would stick to the bloc&#39;s rules after Brexit in some areas, diverge moderately in others and go for distinctively different solutions for the rest.

The issue of avoiding erecting a border between EU member Ireland and the British province of Northern Ireland after Britain leaves has emerged as the most sensitive in the divorce negotiations, as both sides fear a return to the violence that beset the region for decades.

The EU expects Britain to come up with proposals on that, adding that London&#39;s desire to leave the bloc&#39;s single market and customs union means a border would be virtually unavoidable.

&quot;I don&#39;t think the United Kingdom has yet squared the circle,&quot; Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar told journalists. &quot;You&#39;re hearing this idea of three baskets. But that&#39;s not a significant step away from having your cake and eating it.&quot;

Tusk said he hoped to get more clarity when he meets Theresa May next Thursday, a day before the British prime minister is due to deliver a speech to outline London's vision of its future ties with the EU.

European Council President Donald Tusk on Friday dismissed as "pure illusion" the ideas floated by Britain so far on what sort of relationship it wants with the European Union after it leaves the bloc. Tusk said he hoped to get more clarity when he meets Theresa May next Thursday, a day before the British prime minister is due to deliver a speech to outline London's vision of its future ties with the EU. "I am glad that the UK government seems to be moving towards a more detailed position," Tusk told journalists after 27 EU leaders - all apart from May - met in Brussels on Friday. "However ... I am afraid that the UK position today is based on pure illusion. It seems like the 'cake' philosophy is still alive. From the very start it has been a key clear principle of the EU 27 that there can be no cherry-picking and no single market 'a la carte'." British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson has famously said he wants Britain to get the best of both worlds - to "have its cake and eat it". EU leaders have long been asking May for details of London's vision for future relations, but she has been hampered by divisions within her ruling Conservative Party, with some backing close trading ties and others seeking a "clean break". The cake problem Tusk said the remaining 27 EU states would adopt their joint stance on that in March, whether London provided input or not. He said the bloc would be "extremely realistic in our assessment of possible new proposals". Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, who saw May this week, echoed those comments in talking to reporters separately after the Brussels meeting. "I made it clear to Theresa May that I believe it is crucial for the UK to set out its position on the transition, on issues like the Irish border, and particularly on the future relationship," he said. "We don't like cherry-picking, so it will be difficult to come to a bespoke deal along the lines that some in the UK are suggesting." The EU has rejected British ideas for a three-pronged deal in which Britain would stick to the bloc's rules after Brexit in some areas, diverge moderately in others and go for distinctively different solutions for the rest. The issue of avoiding erecting a border between EU member Ireland and the British province of Northern Ireland after Britain leaves has emerged as the most sensitive in the divorce negotiations, as both sides fear a return to the violence that beset the region for decades. The EU expects Britain to come up with proposals on that, adding that London's desire to leave the bloc's single market and customs union means a border would be virtually unavoidable. "I don't think the United Kingdom has yet squared the circle," Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar told journalists. "You're hearing this idea of three baskets. But that's not a significant step away from having your cake and eating it."

UK ideas on post-Brexit ties are 'pure illusion', says European Council President Donald Tusk

European Union leaders agreed Friday to open crucial talks on a future relationship with Britain but warned they would be even tougher than the first tortuous phase of negotiations.

EU President Donald Tusk said the bloc would open &quot;exploratory contacts&quot; with London after European leaders endorsed an interim deal on the terms of Britain&#39;s divorce, and approved the next stage of discussions.

However, they agreed that while talks will begin in January on a post-Brexit transition period of around two years, actual negotiations on future trade ties would not start until March.

&quot;It is now time for internal EU 27 preparations and exploratory contacts with the UK to get more clarity on their vision,&quot; Tusk told reporters at the end of the summit.

He congratulated British Prime Minister Theresa May -- who had left the summit late Thursday -- on the deal, and in return, she offered her thanks to him and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker.

&quot;Today is an important step on the road to delivering a smooth and orderly Brexit and forging our deep and special future partnership,&quot; May tweeted.

As he arrived for the meeting on Friday, Juncker -- who sealed the deal with May on December 8 after tense all-night talks -- said the British premier had made &quot;big efforts&quot;. 
But he warned the next stage &quot;would be much harder than the first phase, and the first phase was very hard&quot;.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel echoed his comments, saying that while progress had been made, the negotiations ahead would be &quot;even tougher&quot;.

She had earlier warned that &quot;there remain many issues to be solved and we don&#39;t have much time&quot;.

Britain voted to leave the EU in a referendum in June 2016 and is due to end its four-decade membership on March 29, 2019.

After months of difficult talks, May and Juncker agreed on a deal on the key divorce issues of Britain&#39;s exit bill, the future of the Irish border and expatriate rights.

At a meeting without the British premier on Friday, the other EU leaders formally approved negotiating guidelines saying there had been &quot;sufficient progress&quot; and that the second phase could begin. 
May had on Thursday addressed her counterparts over dinner and was &quot;clear about wanting to move onto trade talks as quickly as possible&quot; with &quot;ambition and creativity&quot;, a British official said.

Leaders said there had been polite applause for May, who came to the summit hours after a humiliating parliamentary defeat over her Brexit plans.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said May, who has struggled to assert her authority since a disastrous snap election in June, was &quot;a tough leader in the interest of Britain&quot;.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said she was a &quot;formidable political operator&quot; but that it was &quot;crucial&quot; she sets out Britain&#39;s wish list for long-term ties.

The EU guidelines stress that it is not possible to sign a formal trade deal until after Britain had left the bloc, and officials warned it could take years to do so.

Options for a future relationship include following the model of a recent EU-Canada trade deal, or Norway&#39;s membership of the European Economic Area.

British officials are hoping for a deal by March on a two-year transition out of the bloc, during which their relationship would largely stay the same.

Questions still linger however over the divorce agreement, after Brexit minister David Davis appeared to suggest it was not legally enforceable and that Britain would only pay its exit bill if it got a trade deal.

There are particular concerns about the guarantee made by London -- at Dublin&#39;s request -- that there will be no frontier checks between Ireland and the British province of Northern Ireland.

&quot;Even a primary school student will realise there is a problem to solve with the Irish border,&quot; said Austria&#39;s Chancellor Christian Kern.

The 27 counterparts endorsed an interim deal on the terms of Britain's divorce from the European Union.

European Union leaders agreed Friday to open crucial talks on a future relationship with Britain but warned they would be even tougher than the first tortuous phase of negotiations. EU President Donald Tusk said the bloc would open "exploratory contacts" with London after European leaders endorsed an interim deal on the terms of Britain's divorce, and approved the next stage of discussions. However, they agreed that while talks will begin in January on a post-Brexit transition period of around two years, actual negotiations on future trade ties would not start until March. "It is now time for internal EU 27 preparations and exploratory contacts with the UK to get more clarity on their vision," Tusk told reporters at the end of the summit. He congratulated British Prime Minister Theresa May -- who had left the summit late Thursday -- on the deal, and in return, she offered her thanks to him and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker. "Today is an important step on the road to delivering a smooth and orderly Brexit and forging our deep and special future partnership," May tweeted. As he arrived for the meeting on Friday, Juncker -- who sealed the deal with May on December 8 after tense all-night talks -- said the British premier had made "big efforts". But he warned the next stage "would be much harder than the first phase, and the first phase was very hard". German Chancellor Angela Merkel echoed his comments, saying that while progress had been made, the negotiations ahead would be "even tougher". She had earlier warned that "there remain many issues to be solved and we don't have much time". Britain voted to leave the EU in a referendum in June 2016 and is due to end its four-decade membership on March 29, 2019. After months of difficult talks, May and Juncker agreed on a deal on the key divorce issues of Britain's exit bill, the future of the Irish border and expatriate rights. At a meeting without the British premier on Friday, the other EU leaders formally approved negotiating guidelines saying there had been "sufficient progress" and that the second phase could begin. May had on Thursday addressed her counterparts over dinner and was "clear about wanting to move onto trade talks as quickly as possible" with "ambition and creativity", a British official said. Leaders said there had been polite applause for May, who came to the summit hours after a humiliating parliamentary defeat over her Brexit plans. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said May, who has struggled to assert her authority since a disastrous snap election in June, was "a tough leader in the interest of Britain". Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said she was a "formidable political operator" but that it was "crucial" she sets out Britain's wish list for long-term ties. The EU guidelines stress that it is not possible to sign a formal trade deal until after Britain had left the bloc, and officials warned it could take years to do so. Options for a future relationship include following the model of a recent EU-Canada trade deal, or Norway's membership of the European Economic Area. British officials are hoping for a deal by March on a two-year transition out of the bloc, during which their relationship would largely stay the same. Questions still linger however over the divorce agreement, after Brexit minister David Davis appeared to suggest it was not legally enforceable and that Britain would only pay its exit bill if it got a trade deal. There are particular concerns about the guarantee made by London -- at Dublin's request -- that there will be no frontier checks between Ireland and the British province of Northern Ireland. "Even a primary school student will realise there is a problem to solve with the Irish border," said Austria's Chancellor Christian Kern.

EU opens next Brexit phase with warning of troubles ahead

EU President Donald Tusk warned that talks on a post-Brexit trade deal and transition period would be even more difficult than a hard-won agreement on divorce terms that was sealed on Friday.

&quot;Let us remember that the most difficult challenge is still ahead. We all know that breaking up is hard but breaking up and building a new relation is much harder,&quot; Tusk said.

Issuing guidelines for the talks ahead, Tusk said Britain will have to follow all EU laws, including new ones, during the two-year transition period London has requested to reassure businesses.

He said it must also respect budgetary commitments and judicial oversight during a transition in which the remaining 27 European Union member countries continue to meet and make decisions without Britain.

In a sign of the challenges ahead, the former Polish premier said: &quot;We need more clarity on how the UK sees our future relation after it has left the single market.&quot;&nbsp;

He warned that time was of the essence before Britain&#39;s scheduled withdrawal from the bloc on 29 March 2019.

&quot;So much time has been devoted to the easiest part of the task. Now to negotiate a transitional arrangement and the framework for our future relationship we have de facto less than a year,&quot; he said.

The first phase of negotiations began 29 June, about a year after Britain&#39;s shock vote to leave the bloc, and finally wrapped up when British Prime Minister Theresa May rushed to Brussels early Friday.&nbsp;

The European Commission, the EU executive, said it &quot;recommends sufficient progress&quot; had been made by Britain on separation issues including the Irish border, Britain&#39;s divorce bill, and citizens rights.

The agreement paves the way for EU leaders at a summit on December 14-15 to open the second phase of Brexit negotiations, covering trade talks and a transition period.

Britain voted in June 2016 to become the first state to leave the EU, after more than four decades of membership, but the talks have been slow moving and often acrimonious so far.

'So much time has been devoted to the easiest part of the task. Now to negotiate a transitional arrangement and the framework for our future relationship we have de facto less than a year,' Donald Tusk said

EU President Donald Tusk warned that talks on a post-Brexit trade deal and transition period would be even more difficult than a hard-won agreement on divorce terms that was sealed on Friday. "Let us remember that the most difficult challenge is still ahead. We all know that breaking up is hard but breaking up and building a new relation is much harder," Tusk said. Issuing guidelines for the talks ahead, Tusk said Britain will have to follow all EU laws, including new ones, during the two-year transition period London has requested to reassure businesses. He said it must also respect budgetary commitments and judicial oversight during a transition in which the remaining 27 European Union member countries continue to meet and make decisions without Britain. In a sign of the challenges ahead, the former Polish premier said: "We need more clarity on how the UK sees our future relation after it has left the single market." He warned that time was of the essence before Britain's scheduled withdrawal from the bloc on 29 March 2019. "So much time has been devoted to the easiest part of the task. Now to negotiate a transitional arrangement and the framework for our future relationship we have de facto less than a year," he said. The first phase of negotiations began 29 June, about a year after Britain's shock vote to leave the bloc, and finally wrapped up when British Prime Minister Theresa May rushed to Brussels early Friday. The European Commission, the EU executive, said it "recommends sufficient progress" had been made by Britain on separation issues including the Irish border, Britain's divorce bill, and citizens rights. The agreement paves the way for EU leaders at a summit on December 14-15 to open the second phase of Brexit negotiations, covering trade talks and a transition period. Britain voted in June 2016 to become the first state to leave the EU, after more than four decades of membership, but the talks have been slow moving and often acrimonious so far.

EU's Tusk says 'most difficult challenge' ahead in Brexit talks

EU President Donald Tusk said Monday that a deal to unblock stalled divorce talks between the European Union and Britain was closer than ever after a breakthrough on the thorny topic of Ireland.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Tell me why I like Mondays! Encouraged after my phone call with Taoiseach <a href="https://twitter.com/campaignforleo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@campaignforleo</a> on progress on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Brexit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Brexit</a> issue of Ireland. Getting closer to sufficient progress at December <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EUCO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EUCO</a>.
&mdash; Donald Tusk (@eucopresident) <a href="https://twitter.com/eucopresident/status/937663925482590208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2017</a></blockquote>
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&quot;Tell me why I like Mondays!&quot; Tusk, a former Polish president, said on his Twitter account, in an apparent reference to the 1979 hit &quot;I don`t like Mondays&quot;, sung by the Boomtown Rats, fronted by Bob Geldof.

&quot;Encouraged after my phone call with Prime Minister Leo Varadkar on progress on Brexit issue of Ireland. Getting closer to sufficient progress at December (EU summit),&quot; Tusk said.

Varadkar later retweeted Tusk&#39;s message on his own Twitter account. He was due to give a statement later Monday.

The EU had set Monday as the last deadline for Britain to make sufficient progress on three key Brexit divorce issues - Northern Ireland, its exit bill and the rights of EU citizens living in Britain - in order to move on to trade talks at a summit on December 14.

Tusk sent his tweet just hours before sitting down for talks with British Prime Minister Theresa May, which follows a lunch between May and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker.

EU President Donald Tusk said on Monday that a deal to unblock stalled divorce talks between the European Union and Britain was closer than ever after a breakthrough on the thorny topic of Ireland

EU President Donald Tusk said Monday that a deal to unblock stalled divorce talks between the European Union and Britain was closer than ever after a breakthrough on the thorny topic of Ireland. Tell me why I like Mondays! Encouraged after my phone call with Taoiseach @campaignforleo on progress on #Brexit issue of Ireland. Getting closer to sufficient progress at December #EUCO. — Donald Tusk (@eucopresident) December 4, 2017 × "Tell me why I like Mondays!" Tusk, a former Polish president, said on his Twitter account, in an apparent reference to the 1979 hit "I don`t like Mondays", sung by the Boomtown Rats, fronted by Bob Geldof. "Encouraged after my phone call with Prime Minister Leo Varadkar on progress on Brexit issue of Ireland. Getting closer to sufficient progress at December (EU summit)," Tusk said. Varadkar later retweeted Tusk's message on his own Twitter account. He was due to give a statement later Monday. The EU had set Monday as the last deadline for Britain to make sufficient progress on three key Brexit divorce issues - Northern Ireland, its exit bill and the rights of EU citizens living in Britain - in order to move on to trade talks at a summit on December 14. Tusk sent his tweet just hours before sitting down for talks with British Prime Minister Theresa May, which follows a lunch between May and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker.

'Getting closer' to Brexit divorce deal: EU's Tusk

EU President Donald Tusk said Friday that reports of a deadlock in Brexit talks were &quot;exaggerated&quot; after leaders agreed at a summit to start internal preparations to unlock the next phase of negotiations.

Tusk added that Britain&#39;s proposals on future relations would be taken into account by the EU&#39;s internal work on a trade deal, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/may-says-brexit-bill-must-wait-until-final-deal-with-eu-22662">in a further olive branch to British Prime Minister Theresa May</a>.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/spains-rajoy-says-critical-point-reached-in-catalonia-22677" target="_blank">Also Read:&nbsp;Critical point reached in Catalonia: Spanish Prime Minister</a>

&quot;My impression is that reports of the deadlock between the European Union and the UK have been exaggerated, and while progress has not been sufficient, it does not mean there is no progress at all,&quot; Tusk told a news conference in Brussels.

European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker played down fears Britain could leave the bloc without a deal in 2019.

&quot;Our working assumption is not the no deal scenario, I hate the no deal scenario,&quot; said Juncker, standing alongside Tusk. &quot;I want to have a fair deal with Britain.&quot;

Tusk said a face-to-face meeting with Theresa May and a meeting with the remaining 27 EU states had contributed to a more &quot;positive narrative&quot;, despite the bloc saying there was not sufficient progress to start full trade talks until at least December.

&quot;My feeling today and in my tete-a-tete with Theresa May, I feel for sure that both sides present only goodwill,&quot; he said.

The approval of preparatory work on a trade deal &quot;would not be possible&quot; without May&#39;s key speech in Florence last month outlining further Brexit plans, including on the bill Britain must pay.

&quot;I would like to reassure our British friends that in our internal work we will take account of proposals present there (in Florence),&quot; he added.

EU President Donald Tusk said Friday that reports of a deadlock in Brexit talks were 'exaggerated'after leaders agreed at a summit to start internal preparations to unlock the next phase of negotiations

EU President Donald Tusk said Friday that reports of a deadlock in Brexit talks were "exaggerated" after leaders agreed at a summit to start internal preparations to unlock the next phase of negotiations. Tusk added that Britain's proposals on future relations would be taken into account by the EU's internal work on a trade deal, in a further olive branch to British Prime Minister Theresa May. Also Read: Critical point reached in Catalonia: Spanish Prime Minister "My impression is that reports of the deadlock between the European Union and the UK have been exaggerated, and while progress has not been sufficient, it does not mean there is no progress at all," Tusk told a news conference in Brussels. European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker played down fears Britain could leave the bloc without a deal in 2019. "Our working assumption is not the no deal scenario, I hate the no deal scenario," said Juncker, standing alongside Tusk. "I want to have a fair deal with Britain." Tusk said a face-to-face meeting with Theresa May and a meeting with the remaining 27 EU states had contributed to a more "positive narrative", despite the bloc saying there was not sufficient progress to start full trade talks until at least December. "My feeling today and in my tete-a-tete with Theresa May, I feel for sure that both sides present only goodwill," he said. The approval of preparatory work on a trade deal "would not be possible" without May's key speech in Florence last month outlining further Brexit plans, including on the bill Britain must pay. "I would like to reassure our British friends that in our internal work we will take account of proposals present there (in Florence)," he added.

Reports of Brexit deadlock exaggerated: EU president Tusk

British Prime Minister Theresa May on Tuesday signed the historic letter that will launch Brexit when it is delivered to Brussels on Wednesday, a photo released by her office showed.

Sitting in front of a lone Union Jack national flag and a portrait of Britain&#39;s first prime minister, Robert Walpole, a serene-looking May signed the letter to begin the country`s departure from the European Union.

The letter will be taken from 10 Downing Street to Brussels, where it will be delivered by Tim Barrow, Britain&#39;s EU ambassador, to EU President Donald Tusk around 1130 GMT on Wednesday.

Formally notifying Tusk of Britain&#39;s intention to leave the bloc, by triggering Article 50 of the EU&#39;s Lisbon Treaty, sets the clock ticking on a two-year negotiating period to end the UK`s 44 years of membership.

On the eve of launching Brexit, May on Tuesday evening made separate phone calls to Tusk, European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker, and German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

&quot;They agreed that a strong EU was in everyone&#39;s interests and that the UK would remain a close and committed ally,&quot;&nbsp;

Downing Street said.

&quot;They also agreed on the importance of entering into negotiations in a constructive and positive spirit, and of ensuring a smooth and orderly exit process.&quot;

As Britain begins its break with the bloc on Wednesday, May will address parliament and promise to represent everyone in the UK -- including EU citizens -- in the negotiations with Brussels.

She will express hope &quot;that we are no longer defined by the vote we cast, but by our determination to make a success of the result&quot;.

&quot;We are one great union of people and nations with a proud history and a bright future. And, now that the decision has been made to leave the EU, it is time to come together,&quot; the prime minister will say, according to her speech published in advance by Downing Street.

Britain voted by 52 per cent to leave the European Union in a referendum on June 23, 2016.

(AFP)

The letter will be taken ?to Brussels, where it will be delivered by Tim Barrow, Britain's EU ambassador, to EU President Donald Tusk?on Wednesday

British Prime Minister Theresa May on Tuesday signed the historic letter that will launch Brexit when it is delivered to Brussels on Wednesday, a photo released by her office showed. Sitting in front of a lone Union Jack national flag and a portrait of Britain's first prime minister, Robert Walpole, a serene-looking May signed the letter to begin the country`s departure from the European Union. The letter will be taken from 10 Downing Street to Brussels, where it will be delivered by Tim Barrow, Britain's EU ambassador, to EU President Donald Tusk around 1130 GMT on Wednesday. Formally notifying Tusk of Britain's intention to leave the bloc, by triggering Article 50 of the EU's Lisbon Treaty, sets the clock ticking on a two-year negotiating period to end the UK`s 44 years of membership. On the eve of launching Brexit, May on Tuesday evening made separate phone calls to Tusk, European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker, and German Chancellor Angela Merkel. "They agreed that a strong EU was in everyone's interests and that the UK would remain a close and committed ally," Downing Street said. "They also agreed on the importance of entering into negotiations in a constructive and positive spirit, and of ensuring a smooth and orderly exit process." As Britain begins its break with the bloc on Wednesday, May will address parliament and promise to represent everyone in the UK -- including EU citizens -- in the negotiations with Brussels. She will express hope "that we are no longer defined by the vote we cast, but by our determination to make a success of the result". "We are one great union of people and nations with a proud history and a bright future. And, now that the decision has been made to leave the EU, it is time to come together," the prime minister will say, according to her speech published in advance by Downing Street. Britain voted by 52 per cent to leave the European Union in a referendum on June 23, 2016. (AFP)

British PM Theresa May signs letter that will start Brexit

EU chiefs Donald Tusk and Jean-Claude Juncker today backed Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan&#39;s government and urged a &quot;swift return&quot; to normal after a coup attempt. 
 
&quot;The tensions in and challenges for Turkey cannot be solved with guns,&quot; EU president Tusk told reporters during an Asia-Europe summit in Mongolia. 
 
&quot;Military coups have no place in modern Turkey. There is no alternative to democracy and the rule of law,&quot; he said.&nbsp; 
 
 
Erdogan&#39;s authoritarian rule drew flak from EU&nbsp; 
 
The comments followed a joint statement by Tusk, European Commission head Juncker, and EU foreign policy head Federica Mogherini calling for &quot;a swift return to Turkey&#39;s constitutional order.&quot;&nbsp; 
 
&quot;Turkey is a key partner for the European Union. The EU fully supports the democratically elected government, the institutions of the country and the rule of law,&quot; it added. 
 
EU representatives at the gathering met earlier in the day to discuss the unfolding situation. 
 
Brussels will be watching with deep concern as events progress in Turkey, a key partner on its southeastern flank which has been trying to join the EU for many years without success. 
 
Turkey is also a crucial partner for the EU because of the controversial deal they signed in March to tackle the migration crisis. 
 
Under the deal, Ankara agreed to take back migrants and refugees from the Greek islands and to stop people crossing the Aegean Sea. In return it is to get aid and visa-free travel for 80 million Turks to the EU. 
 
The bloc overcame its aversion to Erdogan&#39;s increasingly authoritarian rule, which has received sharp criticism from the EU, to sign the deal. 
 
Tusk said it was &quot;too early to speculate&quot; on the potential consequences of the coup attempt. 
 
&quot;The key question will be what kind of Turkey comes out from this crisis,&quot; he said, adding that how the country deals with the consequences &quot;will be crucial not only for Turkey but the whole region and of course EU-Turkey relations.&quot; 
 
&quot;Our hope and intention is of course to keep Turkey as a key partner,&quot; he said. 
 
NATO and US President Barack Obama have also backed the country&#39;s democratic institutions following the coup attempt. 
 
Turkey will now likely dominate an EU foreign minister&#39;s meeting on Monday which will also be attended by US secretary of state John Kerry. 
 
(AFP)

'Military coups have no place in modern Turkey. There is no alternative to democracy and the rule of law'

EU chiefs Donald Tusk and Jean-Claude Juncker today backed Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan's government and urged a "swift return" to normal after a coup attempt. "The tensions in and challenges for Turkey cannot be solved with guns," EU president Tusk told reporters during an Asia-Europe summit in Mongolia. "Military coups have no place in modern Turkey. There is no alternative to democracy and the rule of law," he said. Erdogan's authoritarian rule drew flak from EU The comments followed a joint statement by Tusk, European Commission head Juncker, and EU foreign policy head Federica Mogherini calling for "a swift return to Turkey's constitutional order." "Turkey is a key partner for the European Union. The EU fully supports the democratically elected government, the institutions of the country and the rule of law," it added. EU representatives at the gathering met earlier in the day to discuss the unfolding situation. Brussels will be watching with deep concern as events progress in Turkey, a key partner on its southeastern flank which has been trying to join the EU for many years without success. Turkey is also a crucial partner for the EU because of the controversial deal they signed in March to tackle the migration crisis. Under the deal, Ankara agreed to take back migrants and refugees from the Greek islands and to stop people crossing the Aegean Sea. In return it is to get aid and visa-free travel for 80 million Turks to the EU. The bloc overcame its aversion to Erdogan's increasingly authoritarian rule, which has received sharp criticism from the EU, to sign the deal. Tusk said it was "too early to speculate" on the potential consequences of the coup attempt. "The key question will be what kind of Turkey comes out from this crisis," he said, adding that how the country deals with the consequences "will be crucial not only for Turkey but the whole region and of course EU-Turkey relations." "Our hope and intention is of course to keep Turkey as a key partner," he said. NATO and US President Barack Obama have also backed the country's democratic institutions following the coup attempt. Turkey will now likely dominate an EU foreign minister's meeting on Monday which will also be attended by US secretary of state John Kerry. (AFP)

Challenges in Turkey can't be resolved with guns: EU president on attempted coup

European Union president Donald Tusk on Tuesday cautioned China to respect the international system, as the world&#39;s second-largest economy finds itself locked in disagreements over maritime law and global trade practices. His comments preceded a judgement from a UN-backed tribunal declaring that China had no &quot;historic rights&quot; in the strategically vital South China Sea, a ruling swiftly rejected by China&#39;s foreign ministry. 
 
Speaking in Beijing at the start of the EU-China summit, Tusk called on the Asian country to protect the &quot;rule-based international order&quot;, saying the task &quot;may be the biggest challenge ahead of us&quot;. 
 
EU members have roundly criticised Beijing for its trade practices, claiming the Asian giant is flooding global markets with cheap products, driving down prices and threatening economic stability. 
 
The global framework of laws and regulations &quot;brings so many benefits to our nations&quot;, Tusk said, adding: &quot;If many start believing that globalisation and international trade are happening without or against common rules, then the first victims will be Chinese and European economies, not to mention people.&quot; 
 
His comments followed remarks by Chinese Premier Li Keqiang that the meeting is &quot;an active signal that clearly states that we are two important powers safeguarding world peace and development&quot;. 
 
Earlier in the day, China cancelled a pre-arranged press conference with the leaders, EU representatives said. 
 
The EU is in the process of considering whether or not to grant China market economy status, a designation that would make it much harder for major economies to fight Beijing over alleged unfair trading practices. 
 
Opposition to granting the status has focused on complaints that China has violated global trade rules, most notably selling steel at below market prices. 
 
Tusk also referred to the South China Sea dispute between Beijing and Manila ahead of the decision from the Hague-based tribunal, saying &quot;the rule-based international order is in our common interest, and both China and the EU have to protect it, as this is in our peoples best interests.&quot;&nbsp; 
 
China asserts sovereignty over almost all of the strategically vital waters in the face of rival claims from its south-east Asian neighbours. To bolster its position it has rapidly turned reefs into artificial islands capable of hosting military planes. Manila lodged its suit against Beijing in 2013, challenging China&#39;s claims to much of the waterway and saying it was in violation of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), to which both countries are signatories. 
 
Beijing insists the tribunal has no jurisdiction over the issue and that it will ignore the ruling. 
 
(AFP)

After maritime row, Beijing is facing criticisms for it's trade practices which has been threatening economic stability across markets

European Union president Donald Tusk on Tuesday cautioned China to respect the international system, as the world's second-largest economy finds itself locked in disagreements over maritime law and global trade practices. His comments preceded a judgement from a UN-backed tribunal declaring that China had no "historic rights" in the strategically vital South China Sea, a ruling swiftly rejected by China's foreign ministry. Speaking in Beijing at the start of the EU-China summit, Tusk called on the Asian country to protect the "rule-based international order", saying the task "may be the biggest challenge ahead of us". EU members have roundly criticised Beijing for its trade practices, claiming the Asian giant is flooding global markets with cheap products, driving down prices and threatening economic stability. The global framework of laws and regulations "brings so many benefits to our nations", Tusk said, adding: "If many start believing that globalisation and international trade are happening without or against common rules, then the first victims will be Chinese and European economies, not to mention people." His comments followed remarks by Chinese Premier Li Keqiang that the meeting is "an active signal that clearly states that we are two important powers safeguarding world peace and development". Earlier in the day, China cancelled a pre-arranged press conference with the leaders, EU representatives said. The EU is in the process of considering whether or not to grant China market economy status, a designation that would make it much harder for major economies to fight Beijing over alleged unfair trading practices. Opposition to granting the status has focused on complaints that China has violated global trade rules, most notably selling steel at below market prices. Tusk also referred to the South China Sea dispute between Beijing and Manila ahead of the decision from the Hague-based tribunal, saying "the rule-based international order is in our common interest, and both China and the EU have to protect it, as this is in our peoples best interests." China asserts sovereignty over almost all of the strategically vital waters in the face of rival claims from its south-east Asian neighbours. To bolster its position it has rapidly turned reefs into artificial islands capable of hosting military planes. Manila lodged its suit against Beijing in 2013, challenging China's claims to much of the waterway and saying it was in violation of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), to which both countries are signatories. Beijing insists the tribunal has no jurisdiction over the issue and that it will ignore the ruling. (AFP)

EU head cautions China to respect international system

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