The first draft of the long-awaited Digital Services Act and Digital Markets Act legislative package was published today.

The digital services act and digital markets act; know everything about EU's new law

As Brexit's negotiation continues in Brussels, the European Union's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier has hinted towards a possibility of a trade deal.

World Business Watch: What will happen in case of a no-deal Brexit?

European Union's chief Brexit negotiator hints towards possibility of a trade deal

India and Europe have decided to fight climate change together. To this end, lawmakers and experts from both regions have begun discussing solutions for the climate crisis.

India and European Union delegates discuss climate crisis

London and Brussels agreed on Sunday (December 13) to more talks on an elusive trade agreement, even though they still have a long way to go to avert a turbulent 'no deal' exit for Britain from the European Union's orbit at the end of the month.

UK PM, EU Chief agree to continue trade talks

UK and EU have agreed to carry on post-Brexit trade talks after a call between leaders earlier on Sunday. In a joint statement, Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said both sides had asked their negotiators to continue and see whether deal could be struck.

Brexit Trade Talks: UK PM, EU Chief agree to continue talks

UK businesses urged for compromise on Sunday after UK PM Boris Johnson said failure remains the 'most likely' outcome of negotiations to strike a post-Brexit trade deal with European Union. Although UK and EU have agreed to continue the talks beyond the agreed deadline of Sunday, December 13, both sides appear far from reaching an agreement.

"I'm afraid we're still very far apart on some key things, but where there's life there's hope," Johnson told reporters, after agreeing with EU commission chief Ursula von der Leyen to push on with negotiations.

"The UK certainly won't be walking away from the talks. I still think there's a deal to be done if our partners want to do it," Johnson said at 10 Downing Street after briefing his cabinet about the call.

Confederation of British Industry director-general Tony Danker said the news of talks continuing "gives hope", but demanded the government fix the IT rollout and offer more support to businesses.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-deal-talks-to-continue-says-eu-chief-on-day-of-the-deadline-349522">Brexit deal talks to continue, says EU chief on day of the deadline</a>

UK and EU are ironing out details over competition rules, fishing rights and economic fair play.

"The most likely thing now is of course we have to get ready for WTO terms," Johnson added, referring to tariffs and quotas on the basic rules of trade set by the World Trade Organization.

The trade between UK and EU will be carried out as per World Trade Organisation (WTO) regulations in the event of no-deal Brexit.

"Either way, whatever happens, the UK will do very, very well," said Johson.

UK businesses welcomed the agreement to keep talking, but disagreed strongly with Johnson's cheerful forecasts for Britain's future if it severs all ties with its biggest overall trading partner from the New Year.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-bank-of-england-talks-of-disruption-in-financial-services-in-new-year-349028">Brexit: Bank of England talks of 'disruption' in financial services in new year</a>

"We now need negotiators to finish the job and agree the deal we all so desperately need," Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders chief executive Mike Hawes tweeted.

'Catastrophic'

Hawes added: "'No deal' would be nothing less than catastrophic for the automative sector, its workers and their families, and represent a stunning failure of statecraft. Quite simply, it has to be ruled out."

Nissan has warned that a no-deal Brexit would make its Sunderland car factory in northeast England, which employs more than 6,000 workers, unviable due to the restoration of tariffs on cross-Channel trade.

Last week, Japanese automaker Honda suspended production at its British plant for a day after suffering a shortfall in parts, owing to blockages at ports caused by the coronavirus pandemic and Brexit stockpiling.

(With AFP inputs)

UK businesses urged for compromise on Sunday after UK PM Boris Johnson said failure remains the 'most likely' outcome of negotiations to strike a post-Brexit trade deal with European Union.

UK businesses urged for compromise on Sunday after UK PM Boris Johnson said failure remains the 'most likely' outcome of negotiations to strike a post-Brexit trade deal with European Union. Although UK and EU have agreed to continue the talks beyond the agreed deadline of Sunday, December 13, both sides appear far from reaching an agreement. "I'm afraid we're still very far apart on some key things, but where there's life there's hope," Johnson told reporters, after agreeing with EU commission chief Ursula von der Leyen to push on with negotiations. "The UK certainly won't be walking away from the talks. I still think there's a deal to be done if our partners want to do it," Johnson said at 10 Downing Street after briefing his cabinet about the call. Confederation of British Industry director-general Tony Danker said the news of talks continuing "gives hope", but demanded the government fix the IT rollout and offer more support to businesses. Also Read | Brexit deal talks to continue, says EU chief on day of the deadline UK and EU are ironing out details over competition rules, fishing rights and economic fair play. "The most likely thing now is of course we have to get ready for WTO terms," Johnson added, referring to tariffs and quotas on the basic rules of trade set by the World Trade Organization. The trade between UK and EU will be carried out as per World Trade Organisation (WTO) regulations in the event of no-deal Brexit. "Either way, whatever happens, the UK will do very, very well," said Johson. UK businesses welcomed the agreement to keep talking, but disagreed strongly with Johnson's cheerful forecasts for Britain's future if it severs all ties with its biggest overall trading partner from the New Year. Also Read | Brexit: Bank of England talks of 'disruption' in financial services in new year "We now need negotiators to finish the job and agree the deal we all so desperately need," Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders chief executive Mike Hawes tweeted. 'Catastrophic' Hawes added: "'No deal' would be nothing less than catastrophic for the automative sector, its workers and their families, and represent a stunning failure of statecraft. Quite simply, it has to be ruled out." Nissan has warned that a no-deal Brexit would make its Sunderland car factory in northeast England, which employs more than 6,000 workers, unviable due to the restoration of tariffs on cross-Channel trade. Last week, Japanese automaker Honda suspended production at its British plant for a day after suffering a shortfall in parts, owing to blockages at ports caused by the coronavirus pandemic and Brexit stockpiling. (With AFP inputs)

Brexit: UK businesses urge PM Boris Johnson for trade deal with EU

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen layer has delivered some heartening news for those who feared Brexit trade deal talks between EU and UK were failing. She said that both sides had asked their negotiators to continue and see whether deal could be struck 'even at this late stage'.

UK and EU had set today's deadline for a deal.

"Despite the fact the deadlines have been missed over and over, we both think that it is responsible at this point in time, to go the extra mile. We have accordingly mandated our negotiators to continue this task and to see whether an agreement can be reached even at this late stage," said Ursula von der Leyen

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We had a useful call with <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BorisJohnson</a> this morning. 
 
We agreed that talks will continue.<a href="https://t.co/rZpN4PmS1i">https://t.co/rZpN4PmS1i</a>
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1338087730690060288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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European Union and UK have been locked in frantic rounds of discussions in the past week. Britain is set leave the economic bloc at the end of this month and there is no trade deal between the two sides.

Both sides differ on the issues of competition rules, fishing rights and economic fair play.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-bank-of-england-talks-of-disruption-in-financial-services-in-new-year-349028">Brexit: Bank of England talks of 'disruption' in financial services in new year</a>

It was apparent that all was not well as UK PM Boris Johnson said on Friday that there was a "strong possibility" that EU and Britain would not be able to strike a trade deal. However, he had said that he would explore all options in order to seal a deal.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/royal-navy-to-help-uk-in-case-of-no-deal-brexit-349216">Royal Navy to help UK in case of no-deal Brexit</a>

On Thursday, European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen had tweeted that positions of EU and UK "remain far apart"

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen layer has delivered some heartening news for those who feared Brexit trade deal talks between EU and UK were failing.

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen layer has delivered some heartening news for those who feared Brexit trade deal talks between EU and UK were failing. She said that both sides had asked their negotiators to continue and see whether deal could be struck 'even at this late stage'. UK and EU had set today's deadline for a deal. "Despite the fact the deadlines have been missed over and over, we both think that it is responsible at this point in time, to go the extra mile. We have accordingly mandated our negotiators to continue this task and to see whether an agreement can be reached even at this late stage," said Ursula von der Leyen We had a useful call with @BorisJohnson this morning. We agreed that talks will continue.https://t.co/rZpN4PmS1i — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) December 13, 2020 × European Union and UK have been locked in frantic rounds of discussions in the past week. Britain is set leave the economic bloc at the end of this month and there is no trade deal between the two sides. Both sides differ on the issues of competition rules, fishing rights and economic fair play. Also Read | Brexit: Bank of England talks of 'disruption' in financial services in new year It was apparent that all was not well as UK PM Boris Johnson said on Friday that there was a "strong possibility" that EU and Britain would not be able to strike a trade deal. However, he had said that he would explore all options in order to seal a deal. Also Read | Royal Navy to help UK in case of no-deal Brexit On Thursday, European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen had tweeted that positions of EU and UK "remain far apart"

Brexit deal talks to continue, says EU chief on day of the deadline

Iran summoned German ambassador on Sunday after European Union criticised Iranian journalist's execution, Iranian media said. Germany currently holds European Union's rotating presidency. Iranian Foreign Ministry also plans to summon French ambassador on Sunday, said Fars news agency.

Like the EU, France had criticised the execution as well.

The dissident journalist Ruhollah Zam had been in Paris before he was captured and taken to Iran.

Zam was convicted of fomenting violence during anti-government protests in 2017. His Amadnews feed had more than 1 million followers.

The EU said in a statement after his execution: “The European Union condemns this act in the strongest terms and recalls once again its irrevocable opposition to the use of capital punishment under any circumstances.”

The French Foreign Ministry called the execution a “barbaric and unacceptable act”, saying in a statement: “France condemns in the strongest possible terms this serious breach of free expression and press freedom in Iran.”

Amnesty International and press advocacy group Reporters Without Borders (RSF) also condemned the execution.

In 2017, regional protests over economic hardship spread across Iran. Iranian officials have blamed USA, Saudi Arabia and Iran's opponents in exile for the unrest.

(With Reuters inputs)

Iran summoned German ambassador on Sunday after European Union criticised Iranian journalist's execution, Iranian media said. Germany currently holds European Union's rotating presidency.

Iran summoned German ambassador on Sunday after European Union criticised Iranian journalist's execution, Iranian media said. Germany currently holds European Union's rotating presidency. Iranian Foreign Ministry also plans to summon French ambassador on Sunday, said Fars news agency. Like the EU, France had criticised the execution as well. The dissident journalist Ruhollah Zam had been in Paris before he was captured and taken to Iran. Zam was convicted of fomenting violence during anti-government protests in 2017. His Amadnews feed had more than 1 million followers. The EU said in a statement after his execution: “The European Union condemns this act in the strongest terms and recalls once again its irrevocable opposition to the use of capital punishment under any circumstances.” The French Foreign Ministry called the execution a “barbaric and unacceptable act”, saying in a statement: “France condemns in the strongest possible terms this serious breach of free expression and press freedom in Iran.” Amnesty International and press advocacy group Reporters Without Borders (RSF) also condemned the execution. In 2017, regional protests over economic hardship spread across Iran. Iranian officials have blamed USA, Saudi Arabia and Iran's opponents in exile for the unrest. (With Reuters inputs)

Iran summons German envoy over EU criticism of journalist's execution: Report

Being ambitious is good, but unchecked ambition can invite trouble. And so is the position of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan whose ambitions have put his country in trouble.&nbsp;

Erdogan wanted to be a caliph, unseat Saudi Arabia's position and befriend both arch-rivals US and Russia. He also wanted Turkey to lead the European Union.&nbsp;

However, Erdogan has single-handedly upset the entire world and put his country into an uncertain and isolated future.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-impose-sanctions-on-turkey-over-russian-s-400-defense-system-349164">US to impose sanctions on Turkey over Russian S-400 defense system</a>

The list of Erdogan's misdeeds is only growing ever since he came to power.&nbsp;

"We have unanimously observed that Turkey has continued with its provocations," said French President Emmanuel Macron. &nbsp;

The EU is not pleased with Ankara and is pressing sanctions.&nbsp;

Erdogan has sent a gas exploration ship to waters claimed by Greece and Cyprus and also angered France by his actions.&nbsp;

He has called Macron a "burden on France" and also questioned his mental health. This is because Macron spoke against radical Islamists.&nbsp;

Erdogan intends to lead the Muslim world but his actions have offended other Muslim nations.&nbsp;

He is already on the wrong side of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and in 2019 joined then Malaysian PM Mahathir Mohamad for an Islamic conference.&nbsp;

Iran too was a part of this conference. But, Erdogan found a way to upset Tehran too.&nbsp;

He recited a politically incorrect poem during his visit to Azerbaijan.&nbsp;

Turkey's role in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict has also not gone down well with Russia.&nbsp;

Russia and Turkey were at the opposing ends of the conflict and when Kremlin managed to get Baku and Yerevan sign a peace deal, Erdogan landed in Azerbaijan to fan the flames again.&nbsp;

"My dear brother (Azerbaijan president) Ilham Aliyev had some advice for the French. What did he say? 'If they love Armenians so much, then they should give Marseilles to the Armenians," said Erdogan. &nbsp;

It is said enemy's enemy is your friend and in Erdogan's case, Russia's rival US is slapping sanctions on Turkey.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The US is upset with Erdogan for purchasing S-400 missile defence systems from Russia.&nbsp;

Erdogan has managed to incite India too by calling Kashmir a "burning issue".

So let's take a look at Ankara's friends now.

The EU is angry and so is France, India, the US, Russia and the Arab world.

Apparently, the world is one on the side and Turkey on another.&nbsp;

Being ambitious is good, but unchecked ambition can invite trouble. And so is the position of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan whose ambitions have put his country in trouble.

Being ambitious is good, but unchecked ambition can invite trouble. And so is the position of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan whose ambitions have put his country in trouble. Erdogan wanted to be a caliph, unseat Saudi Arabia's position and befriend both arch-rivals US and Russia. He also wanted Turkey to lead the European Union. However, Erdogan has single-handedly upset the entire world and put his country into an uncertain and isolated future. Also read | US to impose sanctions on Turkey over Russian S-400 defense system The list of Erdogan's misdeeds is only growing ever since he came to power. "We have unanimously observed that Turkey has continued with its provocations," said French President Emmanuel Macron. The EU is not pleased with Ankara and is pressing sanctions. Erdogan has sent a gas exploration ship to waters claimed by Greece and Cyprus and also angered France by his actions. He has called Macron a "burden on France" and also questioned his mental health. This is because Macron spoke against radical Islamists. Erdogan intends to lead the Muslim world but his actions have offended other Muslim nations. He is already on the wrong side of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and in 2019 joined then Malaysian PM Mahathir Mohamad for an Islamic conference. Iran too was a part of this conference. But, Erdogan found a way to upset Tehran too. He recited a politically incorrect poem during his visit to Azerbaijan. Turkey's role in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict has also not gone down well with Russia. Russia and Turkey were at the opposing ends of the conflict and when Kremlin managed to get Baku and Yerevan sign a peace deal, Erdogan landed in Azerbaijan to fan the flames again. "My dear brother (Azerbaijan president) Ilham Aliyev had some advice for the French. What did he say? 'If they love Armenians so much, then they should give Marseilles to the Armenians," said Erdogan. It is said enemy's enemy is your friend and in Erdogan's case, Russia's rival US is slapping sanctions on Turkey. The US is upset with Erdogan for purchasing S-400 missile defence systems from Russia. Erdogan has managed to incite India too by calling Kashmir a "burning issue". So let's take a look at Ankara's friends now. The EU is angry and so is France, India, the US, Russia and the Arab world. Apparently, the world is one on the side and Turkey on another.

EU, US...the list goes on: Erdogan's ambitions has put Turkey in a corner

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Thursday (December 10) there was "a strong possibility" Britain and the EU would fail to safeguard free trade past the end of the year, a prospect that has weighed on the pound as markets see increasing risk of economic rupture.

UK PM Johnson says no deal Brexit now strong possibility

Leaders of European Union on Friday decided to draw up a list of Turkish targets to impose sanctions. These sanctions are in response to Turkey's activities of prospecting for gas in Greek and Cypriot waters.

"The council adopted sanctions in the face of Turkey's 'unilateral actions and provocations'," French minister for European affairs Clement Beaune tweeted, citing the conclusions agreed by the bloc's 27 leaders.

AFP quoted a diplomat who said that the sanctions would target individuals and that further measures could be imposed "if Turkey pursues its actions"

EU leaders did not agree to seek an arms embargo. They did not also seek to target entire sector of Turkey's economy.

But the conclusions, released by a European Council spokesman, called for a list to be drawn up of targets for "restrictive measures".

The leaders mandated chief EU diplomat Josep Borrell to prepare a report on more measures that could be taken to "expand the scope" of the action, to be submitted by next March.

"The idea is to turn the vice progressively," a diplomat said.&nbsp;

"Turkey has engaged in unilateral actions and provocations and escalated its rhetoric against the EU, EU Member States and European leaders," the leaders said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-set-to-sanction-turkey-over-russian-defence-system-348947">US set to sanction Turkey over Russian defence system</a>

"Turkish unilateral and provocative activities in the Eastern Mediterranean are still taking place, including in Cyprus's exclusive economic zone."

On the eve of the EU summit, Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan dismissed the sanctions threat.

"Turkey does not care much about any sanctions decision to be made by the EU," he said.&nbsp;

"The EU has never treated us honestly. The EU has never stood by any promise it has given us but we always remained patient and we are still patient."

Greece, with French backing, has led the charge for tougher EU action against Turkey, which has repeatedly sent a gas drilling vessel into disputed waters.

(With AFP inputs)

Leaders of European Union on Friday decided to draw up a list of Turkish targets to impose sanctions. These sanctions are in response to Turkey's activities of prospecting for gas in Greek and Cypriot waters.

Leaders of European Union on Friday decided to draw up a list of Turkish targets to impose sanctions. These sanctions are in response to Turkey's activities of prospecting for gas in Greek and Cypriot waters. "The council adopted sanctions in the face of Turkey's 'unilateral actions and provocations'," French minister for European affairs Clement Beaune tweeted, citing the conclusions agreed by the bloc's 27 leaders. AFP quoted a diplomat who said that the sanctions would target individuals and that further measures could be imposed "if Turkey pursues its actions" EU leaders did not agree to seek an arms embargo. They did not also seek to target entire sector of Turkey's economy. But the conclusions, released by a European Council spokesman, called for a list to be drawn up of targets for "restrictive measures". The leaders mandated chief EU diplomat Josep Borrell to prepare a report on more measures that could be taken to "expand the scope" of the action, to be submitted by next March. "The idea is to turn the vice progressively," a diplomat said. "Turkey has engaged in unilateral actions and provocations and escalated its rhetoric against the EU, EU Member States and European leaders," the leaders said. Also Read | US set to sanction Turkey over Russian defence system "Turkish unilateral and provocative activities in the Eastern Mediterranean are still taking place, including in Cyprus's exclusive economic zone." On the eve of the EU summit, Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan dismissed the sanctions threat. "Turkey does not care much about any sanctions decision to be made by the EU," he said. "The EU has never treated us honestly. The EU has never stood by any promise it has given us but we always remained patient and we are still patient." Greece, with French backing, has led the charge for tougher EU action against Turkey, which has repeatedly sent a gas drilling vessel into disputed waters. (With AFP inputs)

European Union plans to impose more sanctions on Turkey

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Friday that there was "a strong possibility" that Britain and European Union (EU) would not be able to strike a trade deal before Britain leaves the bloc at the end of this year. However, he has vowed to do whatever he can to avoid such an eventuality. The trade deal talks between EU and Britain are stuck on issues such as competition rules, fishing rights and economic fair play

Failure to reach a consensus on the issues before Britain's exit may lead to legal and trade complications in the future.

Both sides have set a deadline of Sunday (December 13).

After a meeting with his senior ministers, Johnson said the treaty on the table did not work for Britain.

"We need to be very, very clear there's now a strong possibility, strong possibility that we will have a solution that's much more like an Australian relationship with the EU, than a Canadian relationship with the EU," Johnson said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-deal-eu-britain-to-take-decision-by-weekend-says-ursula-von-der-leyen-348693">Brexit deal: EU-Britain to take decision by weekend, says Ursula von der Leyen</a>

Australia does not have comprehensive trade deal with EU. Although Australia's trade with EU is just fraction of that of Britain, Johnson apparently is drawing simile to suggest that a deal was not necessary.

Under such a scenario, Britain would see trade barriers imposed with the EU, its main economic partner, in just three weeks.

Sterling dropped against the U.S. dollar to $1.3262 on the remarks, down from around $1.33. It was last almost 0.9 percent lower on the day at $1.3274.

Johnson spoke as the 27 national EU leaders met in Brussels and the bloc's chief executive, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, said bridging the persistent differences in UK trade talks was "difficult".

(With Reuters inputs)

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Friday that there was "a strong possibility" that Britain and European Union (EU) would not be able to strike a trade deal before Britain leaves the bloc at the end of this year.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Friday that there was "a strong possibility" that Britain and European Union (EU) would not be able to strike a trade deal before Britain leaves the bloc at the end of this year. However, he has vowed to do whatever he can to avoid such an eventuality. The trade deal talks between EU and Britain are stuck on issues such as competition rules, fishing rights and economic fair play Failure to reach a consensus on the issues before Britain's exit may lead to legal and trade complications in the future. Both sides have set a deadline of Sunday (December 13). After a meeting with his senior ministers, Johnson said the treaty on the table did not work for Britain. "We need to be very, very clear there's now a strong possibility, strong possibility that we will have a solution that's much more like an Australian relationship with the EU, than a Canadian relationship with the EU," Johnson said. Also Read | Brexit deal: EU-Britain to take decision by weekend, says Ursula von der Leyen Australia does not have comprehensive trade deal with EU. Although Australia's trade with EU is just fraction of that of Britain, Johnson apparently is drawing simile to suggest that a deal was not necessary. Under such a scenario, Britain would see trade barriers imposed with the EU, its main economic partner, in just three weeks. Sterling dropped against the U.S. dollar to $1.3262 on the remarks, down from around $1.33. It was last almost 0.9 percent lower on the day at $1.3274. Johnson spoke as the 27 national EU leaders met in Brussels and the bloc's chief executive, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, said bridging the persistent differences in UK trade talks was "difficult". (With Reuters inputs)

Strong possibility of no-deal Brexit: UK PM Boris Johnson

The Bank of England on Friday said that financial service faced 'some disruption' when the transition period for Brexit ends at the end of this month. Although the Bank of England said that banks in UK were resilient to the risk of Brexit and coronavirus, the warning given by the bank is likely to be noted in the financial world.

Bank of England's Financial Policy Committee, which is tasked with safeguarding the financial system added that major British banks were capable of absorbing USD 266 billion (200 billion Pounds) in credit losses.

Britain and the European Union are still locked in negotiations over Brexit trade deal. The negotiations have not made much progress. Both sides have kept a deadline ending this Sunday (December 13)

On Friday, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that a no-deal Brexit was a possibility although he vowed to explore all ways to strike a trade deal.

After a meeting with his senior ministers, Johnson said the treaty on the table did not work for Britain.

"We need to be very, very clear there's now a strong possibility, strong possibility that we will have a solution that's much more like an Australian relationship with the EU, than a Canadian relationship with the EU," Johnson said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strong-possibility-of-no-deal-brexit-uk-pm-boris-johnson-348945">Strong possibility of no-deal Brexit: UK PM Boris Johnson</a>

Australia does not have comprehensive trade deal with EU. Although Australia's trade with EU is just fraction of that of Britain, Johnson apparently is drawing simile to suggest that a deal was not necessary.

Negotiations between UK and the EU are stuck over fishing rights, competition rules and economic fair play.

The Bank of England on Friday said that financial service faced 'some disruption' when the transition period for Brexit ends at the end of this month. Although the Bank of England said that banks in UK were resilient to the risk of Brexit and coronavirus, the warning given by the bank is likely to be noted in the financial world.

The Bank of England on Friday said that financial service faced 'some disruption' when the transition period for Brexit ends at the end of this month. Although the Bank of England said that banks in UK were resilient to the risk of Brexit and coronavirus, the warning given by the bank is likely to be noted in the financial world. Bank of England's Financial Policy Committee, which is tasked with safeguarding the financial system added that major British banks were capable of absorbing USD 266 billion (200 billion Pounds) in credit losses. Britain and the European Union are still locked in negotiations over Brexit trade deal. The negotiations have not made much progress. Both sides have kept a deadline ending this Sunday (December 13) On Friday, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that a no-deal Brexit was a possibility although he vowed to explore all ways to strike a trade deal. After a meeting with his senior ministers, Johnson said the treaty on the table did not work for Britain. "We need to be very, very clear there's now a strong possibility, strong possibility that we will have a solution that's much more like an Australian relationship with the EU, than a Canadian relationship with the EU," Johnson said. Also Read | Strong possibility of no-deal Brexit: UK PM Boris Johnson Australia does not have comprehensive trade deal with EU. Although Australia's trade with EU is just fraction of that of Britain, Johnson apparently is drawing simile to suggest that a deal was not necessary. Negotiations between UK and the EU are stuck over fishing rights, competition rules and economic fair play.

Brexit: Bank of England talks of 'disruption' in financial services in new year

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has said that European Union (EU) and Britain will come to a decision on the post-Brexit deal by the end of the coming weekend. She tweeted her statement after her latest interaction with UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Although von der Leyen said the discussion was "lively and interesting", she noted that positions of Britain and the EU "remain far apart"

Ursula von der Leyen tweeted her statement after her interaction with Johnson

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We had a lively &amp; interesting discussion on the state of play on outstanding issues. 
 
We understand each other’s positions. They remain far apart. 
 
The teams should immediately reconvene to try to resolve these issues. We will come to a decision by the end of the weekend. <a href="https://t.co/jG0Mfg35YX">pic.twitter.com/jG0Mfg35YX</a>
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1336801873836249089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The emergency meeting between Johnson and von der Leyen to seek a post-Brexit trade deal has ended without breakthrough as "very large gaps remain" between the two sides, British media reported late Wednesday.

Brexit transition period ends at the end of this year.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/back-down-or-expect-no-deal-boris-johnson-threatens-the-european-union-on-brexit-348629">Back down or expect no deal: Boris Johnson threatens the European Union on Brexit</a>

The trade negotiations are at a crucial stage as time is running out for both sides to secure a deal.

Failure to reach a free trade agreement means bilateral trade will fall back on World Trade Organization (WTO) rules in 2021.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has said that European Union (EU) and Britain will come to a decision on the post-Brexit deal by the end of the coming weekend.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has said that European Union (EU) and Britain will come to a decision on the post-Brexit deal by the end of the coming weekend. She tweeted her statement after her latest interaction with UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Although von der Leyen said the discussion was "lively and interesting", she noted that positions of Britain and the EU "remain far apart" Ursula von der Leyen tweeted her statement after her interaction with Johnson We had a lively & interesting discussion on the state of play on outstanding issues. We understand each other’s positions. They remain far apart. The teams should immediately reconvene to try to resolve these issues. We will come to a decision by the end of the weekend. pic.twitter.com/jG0Mfg35YX — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) December 9, 2020 × The emergency meeting between Johnson and von der Leyen to seek a post-Brexit trade deal has ended without breakthrough as "very large gaps remain" between the two sides, British media reported late Wednesday. Brexit transition period ends at the end of this year. Also Read: Back down or expect no deal: Boris Johnson threatens the European Union on Brexit The trade negotiations are at a crucial stage as time is running out for both sides to secure a deal. Failure to reach a free trade agreement means bilateral trade will fall back on World Trade Organization (WTO) rules in 2021.

Brexit deal: EU-Britain to take decision by weekend, says Ursula von der Leyen

Twitter and three other US tech companies have urged the EU to take a flexible approach towards harmful and illegal online content instead of blanket rules requiring takedown.

They cited preserving an open internet as the reason.

US internet media group IAC/InterActiveCorp-owned online video platform Vimeo, nonprofit browser maker Mozilla and Automattic, owner of online publishing tool WordPress.com, made the call a week before EU tech chief Margrethe Vestager is due to present her draft rules.

Known as the Digital Services Act, the rules aim to get bigger companies to take more responsibility for removing illegal and harmful content as soon as they have been notified.

In a joint open letter published on Wednesday, Twitter and the other companies said the solution should be broader than just removing content.

Blunt content removal obligations could have a negative impact on freedom of expression, they said.

"...By limiting policy options to a solely stay up-come down binary, we forgo promising alternatives that could better address the spread and impact of problematic content while safeguarding rights and the potential for smaller companies to compete," they said.

The companies said a better tactic would be to limit the number of people who encounter harmful content.

"This can be achieved by placing a technological emphasis on visibility over prevalence, supporting measures towards algorithmic transparency and control, setting limits to the discoverability of harmful content, further exploring community moderation, and providing meaningful user choice," they said.

The companies said new EU rules should also take into account the rise of decentralised hosting of content and data.

Following the announcement of the draft rules on December 15, the European Commission will have to thrash out a final legislative draft with EU countries and European Parliament, in a process likely to take months and even years.

(with inputs)

Twitter and three other US tech companies have urged the EU to take a flexible approach towards harmful and illegal online content instead of blanket rules requiring takedown.

Twitter and three other US tech companies have urged the EU to take a flexible approach towards harmful and illegal online content instead of blanket rules requiring takedown. They cited preserving an open internet as the reason. US internet media group IAC/InterActiveCorp-owned online video platform Vimeo, nonprofit browser maker Mozilla and Automattic, owner of online publishing tool WordPress.com, made the call a week before EU tech chief Margrethe Vestager is due to present her draft rules. Known as the Digital Services Act, the rules aim to get bigger companies to take more responsibility for removing illegal and harmful content as soon as they have been notified. In a joint open letter published on Wednesday, Twitter and the other companies said the solution should be broader than just removing content. Blunt content removal obligations could have a negative impact on freedom of expression, they said. "...By limiting policy options to a solely stay up-come down binary, we forgo promising alternatives that could better address the spread and impact of problematic content while safeguarding rights and the potential for smaller companies to compete," they said. The companies said a better tactic would be to limit the number of people who encounter harmful content. "This can be achieved by placing a technological emphasis on visibility over prevalence, supporting measures towards algorithmic transparency and control, setting limits to the discoverability of harmful content, further exploring community moderation, and providing meaningful user choice," they said. The companies said new EU rules should also take into account the rise of decentralised hosting of content and data. Following the announcement of the draft rules on December 15, the European Commission will have to thrash out a final legislative draft with EU countries and European Parliament, in a process likely to take months and even years. (with inputs)

Twitter, other US tech companies push back against EU rules on illegal online content

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are all set to come face to face in an attempt to seal a post-brexit trade deal. UK & EU's repeated efforts to narrow their differences have fallen flat.

UK, EU to discuss post-brexit trade deal, both sides still stuck over 3 issues

Last ditch efforts are on from both sides as British and European Union negotiators embarked on talks which are probably in their final two days. The negotiations are taking place over a trade deal. Both sides have not been able to close-in on an agreement for past eight months.

Britain's David Frost and EU's Michel Barnier took up from where they left off in EU headquarters in Brussels, ending a two-day pause after a fruitless week of late-night wrangling in London.

"We're working very hard to try to get a deal. We'll see what happens in the negotiations today," Frost told reporters as he arrived at the city's Gare de Midi train station.

It is expected that the talks will go on till late Sunday and into Monday. Senior negotiators are still haggling over last remaining but most contentious issues.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-the-potential-impact-of-brexit-without-a-trade-deal-347959">Explainer: The potential impact of Brexit without a trade deal</a>

UK PM Boris Johnson will reportedly lobby European leaders. Johnson's call with EU chief Ursula von der Leyen on Saturday ended without any agreement.

Both of them will now talk on Monday evening. 27 EU leaders will then gather in Brussels on Thursday for a two-day summit planned to tackle their own budget dispute, but which will now once again be clouded by Brexit worries.

Johnson and von der Leyen issued a downbeat joint statement after their call, with divisions still wide over fishing rights, fair trade rules and an enforcement mechanism to govern any deal.

'No sense'

Ireland would be the EU member worst hit by a failure to strike a deal and Foreign Minister Simon Coveney insisted agreement was crucial to avoid more damage to an economy already reeling from the Covid-19 pandemic. 
Failure "doesn’t make any political sense and it certainly doesn't make any economic or social sense either", he told RTE news.

"And for all those reasons, I think that the negotiating teams and senior politicians will find a way of getting a deal here, but at the moment we're in a difficult place as we try to close it out," he said.

Britain formally left the EU in January, nearly four years after a referendum on membership that split the nation down the middle and two months after Johnson won an election touting what he claimed was an "oven ready" Brexit deal.

The UK is bound to the EU's tariff-free single market until a post-Brexit transition period expires at the end of the year -- an immovable deadline by which time the two sides must try to agree on new terms for their future relationship.

"It's in a very difficult position, there's no point denying that," British Environment Minister George Eustice told Sky News.

"We're going continue to work on these negotiations until there's no point in doing so any further."

Without a deal, the bulk of cross-Channel trade will revert to World Trade Organization terms, a return to tariffs and quotas after almost five decades of close economic and political integration.

Johnson has insisted Britain will "prosper mightily" whatever the outcome of the talks, but he will face severe political and economic fallout if he cannot seal a deal.

"If there is no deal now, I see huge international implications... because we would be in an economic war with Europe that would cost us very dearly," former Labour prime minister Gordon Brown told Sky News.

European capitals have remained remarkably united behind Barnier through the fraught Brexit process, but some internal fractures have now begun to surface.

On Friday, France threatened to veto any deal that falls short of their demands on ensuring fair trade and access to UK fishing waters, where they have demanded a durable agreement, whereas Britain wants frequent renegotiations.

"We know that 100-percent access to fishing waters in the UK maritime zone is finished," European Affairs minister Clement Beaune told French weekly le Journal du Dimanche.&nbsp;

"But we need lasting access. The British can't have total access to our EU single market and exclude fish." 
Barnier was to brief envoys from the bloc member states early on Monday with several countries sharing Paris's concerns that the EU side could give too much ground, especially on fair trade rules.

Last ditch efforts are on from both sides as British and European Union negotiators embarked on talks which are probably in their final two days. The negotiations are taking place over a trade deal.

Last ditch efforts are on from both sides as British and European Union negotiators embarked on talks which are probably in their final two days. The negotiations are taking place over a trade deal. Both sides have not been able to close-in on an agreement for past eight months. Britain's David Frost and EU's Michel Barnier took up from where they left off in EU headquarters in Brussels, ending a two-day pause after a fruitless week of late-night wrangling in London. "We're working very hard to try to get a deal. We'll see what happens in the negotiations today," Frost told reporters as he arrived at the city's Gare de Midi train station. It is expected that the talks will go on till late Sunday and into Monday. Senior negotiators are still haggling over last remaining but most contentious issues. Also Read | Explainer: The potential impact of Brexit without a trade deal UK PM Boris Johnson will reportedly lobby European leaders. Johnson's call with EU chief Ursula von der Leyen on Saturday ended without any agreement. Both of them will now talk on Monday evening. 27 EU leaders will then gather in Brussels on Thursday for a two-day summit planned to tackle their own budget dispute, but which will now once again be clouded by Brexit worries. Johnson and von der Leyen issued a downbeat joint statement after their call, with divisions still wide over fishing rights, fair trade rules and an enforcement mechanism to govern any deal. 'No sense' Ireland would be the EU member worst hit by a failure to strike a deal and Foreign Minister Simon Coveney insisted agreement was crucial to avoid more damage to an economy already reeling from the Covid-19 pandemic. Failure "doesn’t make any political sense and it certainly doesn't make any economic or social sense either", he told RTE news. "And for all those reasons, I think that the negotiating teams and senior politicians will find a way of getting a deal here, but at the moment we're in a difficult place as we try to close it out," he said. Britain formally left the EU in January, nearly four years after a referendum on membership that split the nation down the middle and two months after Johnson won an election touting what he claimed was an "oven ready" Brexit deal. The UK is bound to the EU's tariff-free single market until a post-Brexit transition period expires at the end of the year -- an immovable deadline by which time the two sides must try to agree on new terms for their future relationship. "It's in a very difficult position, there's no point denying that," British Environment Minister George Eustice told Sky News. "We're going continue to work on these negotiations until there's no point in doing so any further." Without a deal, the bulk of cross-Channel trade will revert to World Trade Organization terms, a return to tariffs and quotas after almost five decades of close economic and political integration. Johnson has insisted Britain will "prosper mightily" whatever the outcome of the talks, but he will face severe political and economic fallout if he cannot seal a deal. "If there is no deal now, I see huge international implications... because we would be in an economic war with Europe that would cost us very dearly," former Labour prime minister Gordon Brown told Sky News. European capitals have remained remarkably united behind Barnier through the fraught Brexit process, but some internal fractures have now begun to surface. On Friday, France threatened to veto any deal that falls short of their demands on ensuring fair trade and access to UK fishing waters, where they have demanded a durable agreement, whereas Britain wants frequent renegotiations. "We know that 100-percent access to fishing waters in the UK maritime zone is finished," European Affairs minister Clement Beaune told French weekly le Journal du Dimanche. "But we need lasting access. The British can't have total access to our EU single market and exclude fish." Barnier was to brief envoys from the bloc member states early on Monday with several countries sharing Paris's concerns that the EU side could give too much ground, especially on fair trade rules.

Brexit: Last ditch efforts on to save trade deal talks from failure

Britain and the European Union sought on Sunday to strike an elusive trade deal, with failure likely to end with trade in chaos, markets tumbling and a huge economic price to pay.

Here are some of the potential pressure points of a no-trade deal after five years of Brexit crisis.

Sterling

Investors and banks have predicted that a deal will eventually be done, so a no-deal would hit sterling, according to major foreign exchange traders.

The shock referendum result on June 24, 2016 sent the pound down 8% against the U.S. dollar, its biggest one-day fall since the era of free-floating exchange rates began in the 1970s.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-gets-ready-for-roll-out-of-pfizers-covid-vaccine-this-week-347845">UK gets ready for roll-out of Pfizer's Covid vaccine this week</a>

That was nearly double the 4.3% drop on Sept. 16, 1992, when financier George Soros "broke the Bank of England" after his bets against the pound were instrumental in the currency`s exit from the European Exchange Rate Mechanism.

Trade

Overnight Britain would lose zero-tariff and zero-quota access to the European Single Market of 450 million consumers.

Britain would default to World Trade Organization (WTO) terms in its trade with the 27-state bloc, making it in effect as distant to its biggest trading partner as Australia.

Britain would impose its new UK global tariff (UKGT) on EU imports while the EU would impose its common external tariff on UK imports. Non-tariff barriers could hinder trade, with prices predicted to rise for consumers and businesses.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-eu-to-resume-talks-in-final-push-for-brexit-trade-deal-347809">UK, EU to resume talks in final push for Brexit trade deal</a>

Borders risk disruption, especially the main crossing points, with shortages of certain foods possible as Britain imports 60% of its fresh food.

Any disruption would be felt most keenly by sectors that rely on just-in-time supply chains, including autos, food and beverages. Other sectors likely to be affected would include textiles, pharmaceuticals, and chemical and petroleum products.

The EU is Britain`s biggest trading partner, accounting for 47% of its trade in 2019. It had a trade deficit of 79 billion pounds ($106 billion) with the EU, a surplus of 18 billion in services outweighed by a deficit of 97 billion pounds in goods.

Even with a deal, Britain`s reasonable worst-case scenario is that 7,000 trucks bound for the continent could stack up in the southern English county of Kent.

The&nbsp;economy

A no-trade deal would wipe an extra 2% off British economic output in 2021 while driving up inflation, unemployment and public borrowing, Britain`s Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) has forecast.

The OBR said tariffs under WTO rules and border disruptions would hit parts of the economy such as manufacturing that were emerging relatively unscathed from the COVID-19 pandemic.

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&nbsp;

The long-term hit could be costly for both Britain and the 27 remaining EU members. Germany, Europe`s biggest economy, is Britain`s biggest EU trading partner.

The shock would be felt unevenly across continental Europe, with those likely to be hit worst including Ireland, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Luxembourg, Malta and Poland.

The Halle Institute for Economic Research has forecast that EU companies exporting to Britain could lose more than 700,000 jobs if no trade deal is agreed.

Northern Ireland

Both sides want to avoid a hard border between the United Kingdom`s Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland in the EU. Implementing the Northern Ireland protocol of the 2020 Brexit Treaty will be complicated without a trade agreement.

Under the treaty, Northern Ireland remains, in effect, in the EU`s single market for goods and aligned to its customs rules after Dec. 31 unlike the rest of the United Kingdom.

Exactly how checks, regulations and paperwork will work between Britain and Northern Ireland is not yet clear. But without a trade deal, the divide between Britain and Northern Ireland would become more distinct.

Brexit without a trade deal could allow Northern Ireland to become a back door into the EU`s single market, thus raising the spectre of a hard border on the island of Ireland for the first time since a 1998 peace deal.

The 1998 Good Friday Agreement brought an end to three decades of sectarian violence between mainly Protestant Unionists who favour continued British rule and mainly Catholic Irish Nationalists who want a united Ireland.

Acrimony

Both sides would likely blame each other for any chaos after a no-deal exit and Europe would be split just as it faces the challenges of China`s rise, Russian assertiveness and the continuing fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Such a failure could shake the bloc that was created to bind the ruined nations of Europe into a global power after World War Two.

The EU would lose one of Europe`s leading military and intelligence powers, its second-largest economy and the only financial capital to rival New York.&nbsp; 
Britain would be alone, left far more dependent on its alliance with the United States.

Britain is also pushing ahead with legislation known as the Internal Market Bill that would allow it to break parts of the 2020 Brexit Treaty relating to Northern Ireland, making it unclear how far it would implement the divorce deal.

City of London

London, the world`s international financial capital, is largely ready for Brexit as a trade deal was never going to cover Britain`s most globally competitive industry.

While most banks and investors have found ways to navigate Britain`s departure from the bloc, the long-term impact of an acrimonious Brexit would be unpredictable and the EU would likely try to grab more market share from the City of London.

London is the centre of the world`s $6.6 trillion a day foreign currency markets, accounting for 43% of global turnover. Its nearest EU competitor, Paris, accounts for about 2%.

The British capital is also the global centre for euro trading, a potential headache for the European Central Bank.

Britain and the European Union sought on Sunday to strike an elusive trade deal, with failure likely to end with trade in chaos, markets tumbling and a huge economic price to pay.

Britain and the European Union sought on Sunday to strike an elusive trade deal, with failure likely to end with trade in chaos, markets tumbling and a huge economic price to pay. Here are some of the potential pressure points of a no-trade deal after five years of Brexit crisis. Sterling Investors and banks have predicted that a deal will eventually be done, so a no-deal would hit sterling, according to major foreign exchange traders. The shock referendum result on June 24, 2016 sent the pound down 8% against the U.S. dollar, its biggest one-day fall since the era of free-floating exchange rates began in the 1970s. Also Read | UK gets ready for roll-out of Pfizer's Covid vaccine this week That was nearly double the 4.3% drop on Sept. 16, 1992, when financier George Soros "broke the Bank of England" after his bets against the pound were instrumental in the currency`s exit from the European Exchange Rate Mechanism. Trade Overnight Britain would lose zero-tariff and zero-quota access to the European Single Market of 450 million consumers. Britain would default to World Trade Organization (WTO) terms in its trade with the 27-state bloc, making it in effect as distant to its biggest trading partner as Australia. Britain would impose its new UK global tariff (UKGT) on EU imports while the EU would impose its common external tariff on UK imports. Non-tariff barriers could hinder trade, with prices predicted to rise for consumers and businesses. Also Read | UK, EU to resume talks in final push for Brexit trade deal Borders risk disruption, especially the main crossing points, with shortages of certain foods possible as Britain imports 60% of its fresh food. Any disruption would be felt most keenly by sectors that rely on just-in-time supply chains, including autos, food and beverages. Other sectors likely to be affected would include textiles, pharmaceuticals, and chemical and petroleum products. The EU is Britain`s biggest trading partner, accounting for 47% of its trade in 2019. It had a trade deficit of 79 billion pounds ($106 billion) with the EU, a surplus of 18 billion in services outweighed by a deficit of 97 billion pounds in goods. Even with a deal, Britain`s reasonable worst-case scenario is that 7,000 trucks bound for the continent could stack up in the southern English county of Kent. The economy A no-trade deal would wipe an extra 2% off British economic output in 2021 while driving up inflation, unemployment and public borrowing, Britain`s Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) has forecast. The OBR said tariffs under WTO rules and border disruptions would hit parts of the economy such as manufacturing that were emerging relatively unscathed from the COVID-19 pandemic. × The long-term hit could be costly for both Britain and the 27 remaining EU members. Germany, Europe`s biggest economy, is Britain`s biggest EU trading partner. The shock would be felt unevenly across continental Europe, with those likely to be hit worst including Ireland, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Luxembourg, Malta and Poland. The Halle Institute for Economic Research has forecast that EU companies exporting to Britain could lose more than 700,000 jobs if no trade deal is agreed. Northern Ireland Both sides want to avoid a hard border between the United Kingdom`s Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland in the EU. Implementing the Northern Ireland protocol of the 2020 Brexit Treaty will be complicated without a trade agreement. Under the treaty, Northern Ireland remains, in effect, in the EU`s single market for goods and aligned to its customs rules after Dec. 31 unlike the rest of the United Kingdom. Exactly how checks, regulations and paperwork will work between Britain and Northern Ireland is not yet clear. But without a trade deal, the divide between Britain and Northern Ireland would become more distinct. Brexit without a trade deal could allow Northern Ireland to become a back door into the EU`s single market, thus raising the spectre of a hard border on the island of Ireland for the first time since a 1998 peace deal. The 1998 Good Friday Agreement brought an end to three decades of sectarian violence between mainly Protestant Unionists who favour continued British rule and mainly Catholic Irish Nationalists who want a united Ireland. Acrimony Both sides would likely blame each other for any chaos after a no-deal exit and Europe would be split just as it faces the challenges of China`s rise, Russian assertiveness and the continuing fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic. Such a failure could shake the bloc that was created to bind the ruined nations of Europe into a global power after World War Two. The EU would lose one of Europe`s leading military and intelligence powers, its second-largest economy and the only financial capital to rival New York. Britain would be alone, left far more dependent on its alliance with the United States. Britain is also pushing ahead with legislation known as the Internal Market Bill that would allow it to break parts of the 2020 Brexit Treaty relating to Northern Ireland, making it unclear how far it would implement the divorce deal. City of London London, the world`s international financial capital, is largely ready for Brexit as a trade deal was never going to cover Britain`s most globally competitive industry. While most banks and investors have found ways to navigate Britain`s departure from the bloc, the long-term impact of an acrimonious Brexit would be unpredictable and the EU would likely try to grab more market share from the City of London. London is the centre of the world`s $6.6 trillion a day foreign currency markets, accounting for 43% of global turnover. Its nearest EU competitor, Paris, accounts for about 2%. The British capital is also the global centre for euro trading, a potential headache for the European Central Bank.

Explainer: The potential impact of Brexit without a trade deal

The UK and EU have decided to return to the negotiating table to try to agree a post-Brexit trade deal, despite "significant differences".

Brexit: UK-EU trade talks to resume over certain issues

United Kingdom and European Union negotiators paused trade talks on Friday to call in their leaders to try to narrow gaps and get an agreement over the line.

UK, EU call in leaders to save trade talks | Johnson, EU Chief to hold emergency call

The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Authority (MHRA) in the UK has not had a round of applause from anyone other than the UK’s politicians and the vaccine companies.

UK-EU spar over best vaccine regulator

The chief Brexit negotiator for the European Union on Wednesday told EU member states that negotiations with the UK on a trade deal were reaching a “make-or-break moment”.

In response, the member countries told the negotiator to not be rushed into an agreement.

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Michel Barnier spoke to ambassadors in Brussels, telling them that the talks remain halted on account of fishing rights in British waters, along with the guarantee of fair competition, and ways to avoid future conflicts, Reuters reported.

A senior EU diplomat who was at the briefing said that “a deal still hangs in the balance”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/no-deal-brexit-still-a-possibility-british-minister-346794" hreflang="en">No-deal Brexit still a possibility: British minister</a>

Britain had formally left the EU on January 31, but thereafter entered a period of transition. As part of this, EU laws apply to the country till the end of 2020, to provide time to adapt, especially for businesses.

A free-trade deal ought to be cemented by January 1. On the same date, EU rules for the internal market, and the EU Customs Union will no longer apply to Britain. But this has stirred fears of a “no deal” Brexit situation looking like the ultimate consequence.

A senior diplomat told Reuters that many EU states see no problem in pushing negotiations further past the deadline, even if it means a temporary “no deal” period between both the parties. The diplomat added that there is a “temptation to rush” due to the pressure. He also added that member states told Barnier “don’t do that”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/uk-says-next-week-very-significant-for-brexit-deal-urges-eu-to-exercise-pragmatism-346236" hreflang="en">UK says next week 'very significant' for Brexit deal, urges EU to exercise pragmatism</a>

On Wednesday, a British government official said that they would agree to any extension of the transition period with the EU.

This was after a senior EU diplomat said that trade talks could well be extended beyond December 31. Another EU diplomat claimed that even though negotiations were still going on in London, it remained unclear whether the gaps between the three sticking points could be bridged.

The chief Brexit negotiator for the European Union on Wednesday told EU member states that negotiations with the UK on a trade deal were reaching a “make-or-break moment”.

The chief Brexit negotiator for the European Union on Wednesday told EU member states that negotiations with the UK on a trade deal were reaching a “make-or-break moment”. In response, the member countries told the negotiator to not be rushed into an agreement. Michel Barnier spoke to ambassadors in Brussels, telling them that the talks remain halted on account of fishing rights in British waters, along with the guarantee of fair competition, and ways to avoid future conflicts, Reuters reported. A senior EU diplomat who was at the briefing said that “a deal still hangs in the balance”. Also read: No-deal Brexit still a possibility: British minister Britain had formally left the EU on January 31, but thereafter entered a period of transition. As part of this, EU laws apply to the country till the end of 2020, to provide time to adapt, especially for businesses. A free-trade deal ought to be cemented by January 1. On the same date, EU rules for the internal market, and the EU Customs Union will no longer apply to Britain. But this has stirred fears of a “no deal” Brexit situation looking like the ultimate consequence. A senior diplomat told Reuters that many EU states see no problem in pushing negotiations further past the deadline, even if it means a temporary “no deal” period between both the parties. The diplomat added that there is a “temptation to rush” due to the pressure. He also added that member states told Barnier “don’t do that”. Also read: UK says next week 'very significant' for Brexit deal, urges EU to exercise pragmatism On Wednesday, a British government official said that they would agree to any extension of the transition period with the EU. This was after a senior EU diplomat said that trade talks could well be extended beyond December 31. Another EU diplomat claimed that even though negotiations were still going on in London, it remained unclear whether the gaps between the three sticking points could be bridged.

Don't do that: EU member states to Brexit negotiator on rushing a deal with Britain

Britain’s government is urging businesses to make final preparations for a new trading relationship with the EU from January.

Time for final preparations for EU, UK tells firms

In early 2020, Awa had just turned 15 years old when she heard that her marriage was being arranged. Escaping it seemed difficult, but Awa found the courage to defy her father’s decision. Her small village in Mali had a committee for the prevention of early marriage, and she took her case to them. This body of respected people presented Awa’s father with all the arguments against early marriage and managed to convince him. It is to help the cause of young girls like Awa that the European Union supports this committee and many other projects in this area around the world.

Our goal as EU is for everyone to have the same power to shape society and their own lives. We are putting it black on white in our third Gender Action Plan, adopted on 24 November calling for a gender-equal world. Now, due to the significant setback that COVID-19 has brought on the global work on equality and as we watch civil society organisations, including women’s and LGBTIQ organisations facing shrinking civic and democratic space, stepping up in building gender-equal world is more important than ever.

Awa’s story is similar to those of many girls around the world who manage to gain control over their lives and stand up to gender-based inequalities and discrimination. They have a voice, they drive change, and they have the European Union by their side to support. Because women’s rights are human rights and because gender equality is a non-negotiable value of the EU, a value which should be reflected in EU’s external action and in the design of all EU development programmes.

It is with EU support that Tufahah Amin, Aziza Al-Hassi and Amine Kashrouda developed an application for online education in Benghazi. And that the Gaziantep Women Platform was launched last year to help more women participate in Syria’s political process. It is in the framework of the EU supported Digital2Equal initiative for online platforms that 15,000 women in India will get training in hospitality skills and can improve their earnings.

The challenges to gender equality are as varied as the contexts in which they emerge and call for context-specific responses whether through multilateral fora, dialogues with partner countries to EU policy proposals or financing of concrete projects. Through our programmes on education, we aim to help more girls attend, learn and think of themselves as future drivers of change. We believe that education is also one of the most powerful ways of putting an end to isolation and abuse, for there is no exit option without economic self-sufficiency. We are embracing the notion of human security and integrating gender equality into our training programmes for EU crisis management operations, for example in the EUCAP Sahel Mali programme for internal security forces (EU Capacity Building Mission).&nbsp;

During the coronavirus pandemic the level of gender-based violence increased significantly and the EU partnered with the United Nations to offer shelters and helplines, and to give lifeline support to women’s grassroots organisations. The gender- and age-sensitive measures and mitigating the risks of gender-based violence are part of the DNA of our Team Europe global response to COVID-19. Yet beyond immediate action, we must remain aware of the challenges facing women in a shrinking labour market and shifting global economy. &nbsp;But challenges also bring opportunities. We celebrate the fact that women and girls are increasingly taking part in shaping global transformations, with new generations active in grassroots movements for a green and just transition, equal rights for all, democracy, and for peaceful and inclusive societies. Positive change is possible and the post-COVID-19 recovery must be an opportunity to address structural inequalities and build more inclusive societies. Underscoring women’s role in the green and digital transitions ahead is key.

Change is still needed. This year it is 25 years since the Beijing Declaration on women’s rights and 20 years since UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on women and peace and security were adopted. While progress has been achieved since, not a single country in the world is on track to achieve gender equality by 2030. Not even Europe, as revealed by the European Institute for Gender Equality´s recent update of the gender equality index. Too many women still do not have access to resources, essential social services and equal power. The call for more action is therefore immediate.

The EU’s Gender Action Plan is not a paper exercise. It is a call for action, with concrete measures. &nbsp;We want to empower more women and girls, in all their diversity, to be economic, political, or environmental actors and leaders. We want to continue integrating Women, Peace and Security in the broader gender equality and women’s empowerment agenda. We want to promote sexual and reproductive health and rights and make gender-responsive leadership the norm in the EU institutions, leading by example. &nbsp;

We believe that gender equality deserves to be put at the heart of European policies. Not only because a gender-equal, fair and inclusive world means a more prosperous and safer world for all of us, but because we see gender equality is an objective in its own right and a mission for Europe, at home and abroad.&nbsp;

(Josep Borrell is High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the European Commission, Jutta Urpilainen is EU Commissioner for International Partnerships. The joint OpEd has been written exclusively for WION.)

In early 2020, Awa had just turned 15 years old when she heard that her marriage was being arranged. Escaping it seemed difficult, but Awa found the courage to defy her father’s decision.

In early 2020, Awa had just turned 15 years old when she heard that her marriage was being arranged. Escaping it seemed difficult, but Awa found the courage to defy her father’s decision. Her small village in Mali had a committee for the prevention of early marriage, and she took her case to them. This body of respected people presented Awa’s father with all the arguments against early marriage and managed to convince him. It is to help the cause of young girls like Awa that the European Union supports this committee and many other projects in this area around the world. Our goal as EU is for everyone to have the same power to shape society and their own lives. We are putting it black on white in our third Gender Action Plan, adopted on 24 November calling for a gender-equal world. Now, due to the significant setback that COVID-19 has brought on the global work on equality and as we watch civil society organisations, including women’s and LGBTIQ organisations facing shrinking civic and democratic space, stepping up in building gender-equal world is more important than ever. Awa’s story is similar to those of many girls around the world who manage to gain control over their lives and stand up to gender-based inequalities and discrimination. They have a voice, they drive change, and they have the European Union by their side to support. Because women’s rights are human rights and because gender equality is a non-negotiable value of the EU, a value which should be reflected in EU’s external action and in the design of all EU development programmes. It is with EU support that Tufahah Amin, Aziza Al-Hassi and Amine Kashrouda developed an application for online education in Benghazi. And that the Gaziantep Women Platform was launched last year to help more women participate in Syria’s political process. It is in the framework of the EU supported Digital2Equal initiative for online platforms that 15,000 women in India will get training in hospitality skills and can improve their earnings. The challenges to gender equality are as varied as the contexts in which they emerge and call for context-specific responses whether through multilateral fora, dialogues with partner countries to EU policy proposals or financing of concrete projects. Through our programmes on education, we aim to help more girls attend, learn and think of themselves as future drivers of change. We believe that education is also one of the most powerful ways of putting an end to isolation and abuse, for there is no exit option without economic self-sufficiency. We are embracing the notion of human security and integrating gender equality into our training programmes for EU crisis management operations, for example in the EUCAP Sahel Mali programme for internal security forces (EU Capacity Building Mission). During the coronavirus pandemic the level of gender-based violence increased significantly and the EU partnered with the United Nations to offer shelters and helplines, and to give lifeline support to women’s grassroots organisations. The gender- and age-sensitive measures and mitigating the risks of gender-based violence are part of the DNA of our Team Europe global response to COVID-19. Yet beyond immediate action, we must remain aware of the challenges facing women in a shrinking labour market and shifting global economy. But challenges also bring opportunities. We celebrate the fact that women and girls are increasingly taking part in shaping global transformations, with new generations active in grassroots movements for a green and just transition, equal rights for all, democracy, and for peaceful and inclusive societies. Positive change is possible and the post-COVID-19 recovery must be an opportunity to address structural inequalities and build more inclusive societies. Underscoring women’s role in the green and digital transitions ahead is key. Change is still needed. This year it is 25 years since the Beijing Declaration on women’s rights and 20 years since UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on women and peace and security were adopted. While progress has been achieved since, not a single country in the world is on track to achieve gender equality by 2030. Not even Europe, as revealed by the European Institute for Gender Equality´s recent update of the gender equality index. Too many women still do not have access to resources, essential social services and equal power. The call for more action is therefore immediate. The EU’s Gender Action Plan is not a paper exercise. It is a call for action, with concrete measures. We want to empower more women and girls, in all their diversity, to be economic, political, or environmental actors and leaders. We want to continue integrating Women, Peace and Security in the broader gender equality and women’s empowerment agenda. We want to promote sexual and reproductive health and rights and make gender-responsive leadership the norm in the EU institutions, leading by example. We believe that gender equality deserves to be put at the heart of European policies. Not only because a gender-equal, fair and inclusive world means a more prosperous and safer world for all of us, but because we see gender equality is an objective in its own right and a mission for Europe, at home and abroad. (Josep Borrell is High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the European Commission, Jutta Urpilainen is EU Commissioner for International Partnerships. The joint OpEd has been written exclusively for WION.)

Towards a gender-equal world: A mission for all

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday said that India and Europe`s ability to work together can help shape global outcomes, adding that the partnership could create fairer globalisation and more effective multilateralism. 
The external affairs minister called Europe a natural partner when it comes to best practices for an India that is focussed on "deep reforms and profound transformation". 
 
"For an India which is focused on deep reforms and profound transformation, Europe is a natural partner when it comes to resources, technology or best practices. Europeans need to appreciate the scale of this change and the opportunities that emerge from it," Jaishankar said at the India-Europe Strategy Group meeting virtually. 
 
"My focus is on the larger relevance of the India-EU partnership for the world. We are each political and economical poles in an increasingly multipolar world. Our ability to work together can help shape global outcomes,"Jaishankar pointed out that India-EU cooperation can take many forms and "unfold in many ways". 
 
"We can make a big difference in vaccine production and renewable energy. We can harmonise our developmental partnerships from Africa to CARICOM and the Pacific Islands. We can influence the creation of fairer globalisation and more effective multilateralism," he said.The India-EU partnership could help create a greener, human-centric, and cooperative world, he said further.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday said that India and Europe`s ability to work together can help shape global outcomes, adding that the partnership could create fairer globalisation and more effective multilateralism.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday said that India and Europe`s ability to work together can help shape global outcomes, adding that the partnership could create fairer globalisation and more effective multilateralism. The external affairs minister called Europe a natural partner when it comes to best practices for an India that is focussed on "deep reforms and profound transformation". "For an India which is focused on deep reforms and profound transformation, Europe is a natural partner when it comes to resources, technology or best practices. Europeans need to appreciate the scale of this change and the opportunities that emerge from it," Jaishankar said at the India-Europe Strategy Group meeting virtually. "My focus is on the larger relevance of the India-EU partnership for the world. We are each political and economical poles in an increasingly multipolar world. Our ability to work together can help shape global outcomes,"Jaishankar pointed out that India-EU cooperation can take many forms and "unfold in many ways". "We can make a big difference in vaccine production and renewable energy. We can harmonise our developmental partnerships from Africa to CARICOM and the Pacific Islands. We can influence the creation of fairer globalisation and more effective multilateralism," he said.The India-EU partnership could help create a greener, human-centric, and cooperative world, he said further.

India, EU can help shape global outcomes together: Indian External Affairs Minister Jaishankar

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Sunday that his country, an official candidate for European Union membership, sees itself as an inseparable part of Europe but will not give in to attacks and double standards.

Erdogan says Turkey sees itself a part of Europe

What would happen if someone randomly walks into your meeting, or if you walk into a wrong room where some highly confidential meeting is going on? A Dutch journalist has the answer to that!

Daniel Verlaan of RTL Nieuws gate crashed a highly confidential meeting of the European Union (EU), but by no fault of his own.

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cybercriminals-target-manchester-uniteds-it-systems-in-sophisticated-hacking-operation-344483">&nbsp;Cybercriminals target Manchester United's IT systems in 'sophisticated' hacking operation</a>

Verlaan saw a picture posted by the Dutch defence minister Ank Bijleveld on Twitter and observed that the picture had the login link and a part of the password. He was greeted with a panel of surprised, confused and shocked members. "You know that you have been jumping into a secret conference?" EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said.

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That ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/danielverlaan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@danielverlaan</a>⁩ hack of the EU defence ministers' meeting? This is how it looked from the inside. Comedy gold. <a href="https://t.co/1qvVYKsDpt">pic.twitter.com/1qvVYKsDpt</a>
— Michiel van Hulten (@mvanhulten) <a href="https://twitter.com/mvanhulten/status/1329885925862760450?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The chat room erupted in laughter from various European leaders present in the meeting. "Yes, yes. I'm sorry. I'm a journalist from the Netherlands. I'm sorry for interrupting your conference," the journalist said laughingly. "I'll be leaving here."

"You know it's a criminal offence, huh?" Mr Borrell replied. "You'd better sign off quickly before the police arrives."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/if-you-are-still-using-123456-as-your-password-change-it-research-344266">If you are still using '123456' as your password, change it: Research</a>

The journalist's agency revealed that their team tried a number of attempts, and then succeeded in guessing the PIN code of the secret meeting as the first&nbsp;five of the six digits of the pin code were visible in the photo.

"An employee accidentally tweeted a photo with part of the pin code", a Defense spokesperson told RTL Nieuws. "The photo was then deleted. A stupid mistake. This shows how careful you should be careful when sending a picture of a meeting."

The meeting was immediately concluded after the journalist exited from his special appearance as the leaders realsied the meeting could not be trusted with staying confidential and private anymore. "This shows how careful you have to be with these kinds of meetings", Prime Minister Mark Rutte told the media house. "A meeting of the defense ministers is never innocent. Caution is advised. The only by-product of this is that Bijleveld has pointed out to other ministers how careful you have to be."

What would happen if someone randomly walks into your meeting, or if you walk into a wrong room where some highly confidential meeting is going on? A Dutch journalist has the answer to that!

What would happen if someone randomly walks into your meeting, or if you walk into a wrong room where some highly confidential meeting is going on? A Dutch journalist has the answer to that! Daniel Verlaan of RTL Nieuws gate crashed a highly confidential meeting of the European Union (EU), but by no fault of his own. Also read| Cybercriminals target Manchester United's IT systems in 'sophisticated' hacking operation Verlaan saw a picture posted by the Dutch defence minister Ank Bijleveld on Twitter and observed that the picture had the login link and a part of the password. He was greeted with a panel of surprised, confused and shocked members. "You know that you have been jumping into a secret conference?" EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said. That ⁦@danielverlaan⁩ hack of the EU defence ministers' meeting? This is how it looked from the inside. Comedy gold. pic.twitter.com/1qvVYKsDpt — Michiel van Hulten (@mvanhulten) November 20, 2020 × The chat room erupted in laughter from various European leaders present in the meeting. "Yes, yes. I'm sorry. I'm a journalist from the Netherlands. I'm sorry for interrupting your conference," the journalist said laughingly. "I'll be leaving here." "You know it's a criminal offence, huh?" Mr Borrell replied. "You'd better sign off quickly before the police arrives." Also read| If you are still using '123456' as your password, change it: Research The journalist's agency revealed that their team tried a number of attempts, and then succeeded in guessing the PIN code of the secret meeting as the first five of the six digits of the pin code were visible in the photo. "An employee accidentally tweeted a photo with part of the pin code", a Defense spokesperson told RTL Nieuws. "The photo was then deleted. A stupid mistake. This shows how careful you should be careful when sending a picture of a meeting." The meeting was immediately concluded after the journalist exited from his special appearance as the leaders realsied the meeting could not be trusted with staying confidential and private anymore. "This shows how careful you have to be with these kinds of meetings", Prime Minister Mark Rutte told the media house. "A meeting of the defense ministers is never innocent. Caution is advised. The only by-product of this is that Bijleveld has pointed out to other ministers how careful you have to be."

Dutch journalist gatecrashes confidential EU virtual meeting

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said on Friday that there was 'better progress' on post-Brexit trade deal talks than before. But she also noted that there was a long way to go and important issues need to be discussed

"After difficult weeks with very, very slow progress now we've seen in the last days better progress, more movement on important files. This is good," she said.

"We still have, of course, the three main difficult issues: governance, fisheries and the level playing field. But, within the frame of the level playing field for example, progress has been made on the question of state aid."

The chief Brexit negotiators suspended direct talks on Thursday after a member of the EU team tested positive for COVID-19, but officials continued working remotely to clinch a trade deal that would come into force in just six weeks.

Britain's transition out of the EU following Brexit ends on Dec. 31 and quotas and tariffs would hit bilateral trade from 2021, unless the estranged allies overcome their differences and seal a new partnership agreement that would also regulate ties from energy to transport to security.

(With agency inputs)

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said on Friday that there was 'better progress' on post-Brexit trade deal talks than before. But she also noted that there was a long way to go and important issues need to be discussed "After difficult weeks with very, very slow progress now we've seen in the last days better progress, more movement on important files.

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said on Friday that there was 'better progress' on post-Brexit trade deal talks than before. But she also noted that there was a long way to go and important issues need to be discussed "After difficult weeks with very, very slow progress now we've seen in the last days better progress, more movement on important files. This is good," she said. "We still have, of course, the three main difficult issues: governance, fisheries and the level playing field. But, within the frame of the level playing field for example, progress has been made on the question of state aid." The chief Brexit negotiators suspended direct talks on Thursday after a member of the EU team tested positive for COVID-19, but officials continued working remotely to clinch a trade deal that would come into force in just six weeks. Britain's transition out of the EU following Brexit ends on Dec. 31 and quotas and tariffs would hit bilateral trade from 2021, unless the estranged allies overcome their differences and seal a new partnership agreement that would also regulate ties from energy to transport to security. (With agency inputs)

'Progress' on Brexit talks but long way to go: EU chief

EU diplomats were taunted by right-wing Israeli protesters on Monday during a visit to a sensitive east Jerusalem area where the Jewish state plans to build a new settler neighbourhood.&nbsp;

Several European Union envoys who had travelled to Givat Hamatos in Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem to protest the planned construction of new Jewish settler homes were called "anti-Semites" by shouting protesters.&nbsp;

"EU shame on you," protesters shouted as diplomats tried to speak.&nbsp;

EU representative in the Palestinian Territories Sven Kuhn von Burgsdorff said the aim of the visit was to "demonstrate our disagreement" with the Israeli plans.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, Israel's right-wing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans to build 2,000 homes for Jews in Givat Hamatos and 1,000 homes for Arabs in the adjacent mainly Palestinian neighbourhood of Beit Safafa.&nbsp;

Last week, the Israel Land Authority issued tenders to build more than 1,200 mainly residential units in Givat Hamatos.&nbsp;

Watchdogs have warned that Israel was stepping up efforts to expand settlements before US President Donald Trump leaves office. &nbsp;

The Trump administration has broken with decades of bipartisan US practice by not opposing Jewish settlement activity in Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem and the occupied West Bank.&nbsp;

President-elect Joe Biden has said his administration will restore US opposition to the settlements which are considered illegal under international law and that many governments view as an obstacle to peace.

Von Burgsdorff said "the four years of Mr. Trump have severely compromised the possibility of reaching a two-state solution".

"Our hope is that with the US President-Elect taking up office... this very important process can be revitalised," he added.&nbsp;

The Palestinians claim east Jerusalem as the capital of their future state.&nbsp;

Most of the international community believes Jewish settlement expansion in east Jerusalem threatens the peace process by cutting the city off from Bethlehem, thereby disrupting the continuity of the Palestinian territories.

Palestinian prime minister Mohammad Shtayyeh on Monday condemned an "escalating and intensive assault plan for the next 10 weeks in a race against time to create a new fait accompli before Donald Trump leaves the White House".

UN Middle East envoy Nickolay Mladenov called on Israel to "reverse" its plans in Givat Hamatos, saying the project would "significantly damage prospects for a future contiguous Palestinian State and for achieving a negotiated two-state solution". &nbsp;

Israel took control of east Jerusalem during the 1967 Six Day War, before annexing it in a move not recognised by most of the international community.

EU diplomats were taunted by right-wing Israeli protesters on Monday during a visit to a sensitive east Jerusalem area where the Jewish state plans to build a new settler neighbourhood.

EU diplomats were taunted by right-wing Israeli protesters on Monday during a visit to a sensitive east Jerusalem area where the Jewish state plans to build a new settler neighbourhood. Several European Union envoys who had travelled to Givat Hamatos in Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem to protest the planned construction of new Jewish settler homes were called "anti-Semites" by shouting protesters. "EU shame on you," protesters shouted as diplomats tried to speak. EU representative in the Palestinian Territories Sven Kuhn von Burgsdorff said the aim of the visit was to "demonstrate our disagreement" with the Israeli plans. Earlier this year, Israel's right-wing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans to build 2,000 homes for Jews in Givat Hamatos and 1,000 homes for Arabs in the adjacent mainly Palestinian neighbourhood of Beit Safafa. Last week, the Israel Land Authority issued tenders to build more than 1,200 mainly residential units in Givat Hamatos. Watchdogs have warned that Israel was stepping up efforts to expand settlements before US President Donald Trump leaves office. The Trump administration has broken with decades of bipartisan US practice by not opposing Jewish settlement activity in Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem and the occupied West Bank. President-elect Joe Biden has said his administration will restore US opposition to the settlements which are considered illegal under international law and that many governments view as an obstacle to peace. Von Burgsdorff said "the four years of Mr. Trump have severely compromised the possibility of reaching a two-state solution". "Our hope is that with the US President-Elect taking up office... this very important process can be revitalised," he added. The Palestinians claim east Jerusalem as the capital of their future state. Most of the international community believes Jewish settlement expansion in east Jerusalem threatens the peace process by cutting the city off from Bethlehem, thereby disrupting the continuity of the Palestinian territories. Palestinian prime minister Mohammad Shtayyeh on Monday condemned an "escalating and intensive assault plan for the next 10 weeks in a race against time to create a new fait accompli before Donald Trump leaves the White House". UN Middle East envoy Nickolay Mladenov called on Israel to "reverse" its plans in Givat Hamatos, saying the project would "significantly damage prospects for a future contiguous Palestinian State and for achieving a negotiated two-state solution". Israel took control of east Jerusalem during the 1967 Six Day War, before annexing it in a move not recognised by most of the international community.

Israel protesters taunt EU envoys in sensitive east Jerusalem area

Britain and the European Union have a week to 10 days to find a way to unlock trade talks, Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said on Monday, after both sides called on the other to move their position on two of the most troublesome areas.

The trade talks resume on Monday in Brussels after there was little movement on the most contentious areas -- so-called "level playing field" fair competition rules and fisheries --last week when the two sides missed the latest mid-November deadline.

The United Kingdom left the EU in January but the sides are struggling to clinch a deal that would govern nearly 1 trillion dollars in annual trade before transitional arrangements end on Dec. 31.

"We really are in the last week to 10 days of this, if there is not a major breakthrough over the next week to 10 days then

I think we really are in trouble and the focus will shift to preparing for a no trade deal and all the disruption that that brings," Coveney told Ireland`s Newstalk radio station.

"I think the British government understand only too well that`s required for a deal this week, the real question is whether the political appetite is there to do it. I think we will (get a deal), that`s been my prediction for a while but I won`t be shocked if it all falls apart."

British officials repeatedly say any deal must respect the country`s sovereignty but the EU says the proximity of Britain to the bloc means Brussels cannot hand it a trade deal similar to those it has agreed with countries such as Canada.

"Our red lines haven`t changed and we`re preparing for whatever the outcome is," Health Secretary Matt Hancock told Sky News. "Of course our preference is to get a deal and that is open to the Europeans if they choose to make the progress that`s needed."

The two sides remain deadlocked over two main areas: the level playing field and fisheries, a sector laden with symbolism for Brexit supporters in Britain.

Both sides have called on each other to shift position for the breakthrough needed to secure a deal and offer businesses clarity on what happens at the beginning of next year.

A senior EU diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the two sides were "still a bit too far away to be able to feel comfortable", repeating that Britain needed to make a choice because "the timetable is very tight".

Britain`s chief negotiator, David Frost, said on Sunday there had been some progress over recent days and that the two sides had common draft treaty texts though significant elements were yet to be agreed.

"We may not succeed," Frost said. "We are working to get a deal, but the only one that`s possible is one that is compatible with our sovereignty and takes back control of our laws, our trade, and our waters."

Britain and the European Union have a week to 10 days to find a way to unlock trade talks, Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said on Monday, after both sides called on the other to move their position on two of the most troublesome areas.

Britain and the European Union have a week to 10 days to find a way to unlock trade talks, Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said on Monday, after both sides called on the other to move their position on two of the most troublesome areas. The trade talks resume on Monday in Brussels after there was little movement on the most contentious areas -- so-called "level playing field" fair competition rules and fisheries --last week when the two sides missed the latest mid-November deadline. The United Kingdom left the EU in January but the sides are struggling to clinch a deal that would govern nearly 1 trillion dollars in annual trade before transitional arrangements end on Dec. 31. "We really are in the last week to 10 days of this, if there is not a major breakthrough over the next week to 10 days then I think we really are in trouble and the focus will shift to preparing for a no trade deal and all the disruption that that brings," Coveney told Ireland`s Newstalk radio station. "I think the British government understand only too well that`s required for a deal this week, the real question is whether the political appetite is there to do it. I think we will (get a deal), that`s been my prediction for a while but I won`t be shocked if it all falls apart." British officials repeatedly say any deal must respect the country`s sovereignty but the EU says the proximity of Britain to the bloc means Brussels cannot hand it a trade deal similar to those it has agreed with countries such as Canada. "Our red lines haven`t changed and we`re preparing for whatever the outcome is," Health Secretary Matt Hancock told Sky News. "Of course our preference is to get a deal and that is open to the Europeans if they choose to make the progress that`s needed." The two sides remain deadlocked over two main areas: the level playing field and fisheries, a sector laden with symbolism for Brexit supporters in Britain. Both sides have called on each other to shift position for the breakthrough needed to secure a deal and offer businesses clarity on what happens at the beginning of next year. A senior EU diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the two sides were "still a bit too far away to be able to feel comfortable", repeating that Britain needed to make a choice because "the timetable is very tight". Britain`s chief negotiator, David Frost, said on Sunday there had been some progress over recent days and that the two sides had common draft treaty texts though significant elements were yet to be agreed. "We may not succeed," Frost said. "We are working to get a deal, but the only one that`s possible is one that is compatible with our sovereignty and takes back control of our laws, our trade, and our waters."

Britain and EU have 7-10 days to find Brexit breakthrough, Ireland says

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