Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon told Europe that Scotland would be back soon, just as the United Kingdom completed its transition period out of the bloc.

“Scotland will be back soon, Europe,” she said on Twitter at 2300 GMT. “Keep the light on.”

The UK formally quit the European Union's single market and customs union at 2300 GMT on Thursday, turning its divorce from Brussels into reality after an 11-month Brexit transition.

"We have our freedom in our hands and it is up to us to make the most of it," Prime Minister Boris Johnson said in a New Year's message to the nation.

He described it as an "amazing moment" for the country and played up his upbeat narrative of a "Global Britain" unshackled from rules set in Brussels. He vowed that post-Brexit Britain, despite being battered by a surge in coronavirus cases, would be an "open, generous, outward-looking, internationalist and free-trading" country.

To this end, Sturgeon hit out at the agreement reached on Christmas Eve, saying the deal showed it was time for Scotland to 'chart our own future as an independent, European nation'.

She said Britain's departure was happening against her will and accused Johnson of 'cultural vandalism' for ending the Erasmus programme, which allows students to study in Europe.

"Scotland did not vote for any of this and our position is clearer than ever," she said.&nbsp;

"Scotland now has the right to choose its own future as an independent country and once more regain the benefits of EU membership. It beggars belief that in the midst of a pandemic and economic recession, Scotland has been forced out of the EU single market and customs union with all the damage to jobs that will bring.

"A deal is better than No Deal. But, just because, at the 11th hour, the UK Government has decided to abandon the idea of a No Deal outcome, it should not distract from the fact that they have chosen a hard Brexit, stripping away so many of the benefits of EU membership.

"And while we do not yet have full details on the nature of the deal, it appears major promises made by the UK Government on fisheries have been broken and the extent of these broken promises will become apparent to all very soon."

She said people in Scotland had voted overwhelmingly to remain in the EU, "but their views have been ignored".

The historic post-Brexit deal with the EU on Christmas Eve came four years after 62 per cent of Scots backed remain in the 2016 referendum.

Sturgeon added: 'This is a far harder Brexit than could have been imagined when the EU referendum took place, damaging and disrupting this nation's economy and society at the worst possible time.

"We are doing everything we can to mitigate against the consequences of the UK Government's actions – but we cannot avert every negative outcome.

"We know that businesses are already struggling under the burden of Covid-19, and are now faced with the need to prepare for this hard Brexit in little more than a week's time.

"We will do all we can to help them and are issuing updated information and advice and urge those most affected, including businesses, to prepare.'&nbsp;

Writing on Twitter about the Erasmus programme, Sturgeon said: "There will be lots of focus, rightly, on the economic costs of Brexit. But ending UK participation in Erasmus, an initiative that has expanded opportunities and horizons for so many young people, is cultural vandalism by the UK Government."

Sturgeon's Scottish Nationalist Party plans to go into next year's Holyrood elections aiming for a fresh mandate from voters for a second independence referendum.

The first minister has previously said that if Scotland opted for independence she would try to re-join the EU.&nbsp;

However, questions remain about whether an independent Scotland would be allowed to become a member of the bloc.&nbsp;

It also remains to be seen if the Brexit deal will increase support for independence among Scots.

Legally, Britain left the European Union on January 31 but has been in a standstill transition period during fractious talks to secure a free-trade agreement with Brussels, which was finally clinched on Christmas Eve.

Britain is the first member state to leave the EU, which was set up to forge unity after the horrors of World War II.

Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon told Europe that Scotland would be back soon, just as the United Kingdom completed its transition period out of the bloc.

Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon told Europe that Scotland would be back soon, just as the United Kingdom completed its transition period out of the bloc. “Scotland will be back soon, Europe,” she said on Twitter at 2300 GMT. “Keep the light on.” The UK formally quit the European Union's single market and customs union at 2300 GMT on Thursday, turning its divorce from Brussels into reality after an 11-month Brexit transition. "We have our freedom in our hands and it is up to us to make the most of it," Prime Minister Boris Johnson said in a New Year's message to the nation. He described it as an "amazing moment" for the country and played up his upbeat narrative of a "Global Britain" unshackled from rules set in Brussels. He vowed that post-Brexit Britain, despite being battered by a surge in coronavirus cases, would be an "open, generous, outward-looking, internationalist and free-trading" country. To this end, Sturgeon hit out at the agreement reached on Christmas Eve, saying the deal showed it was time for Scotland to 'chart our own future as an independent, European nation'. She said Britain's departure was happening against her will and accused Johnson of 'cultural vandalism' for ending the Erasmus programme, which allows students to study in Europe. "Scotland did not vote for any of this and our position is clearer than ever," she said. "Scotland now has the right to choose its own future as an independent country and once more regain the benefits of EU membership. It beggars belief that in the midst of a pandemic and economic recession, Scotland has been forced out of the EU single market and customs union with all the damage to jobs that will bring. "A deal is better than No Deal. But, just because, at the 11th hour, the UK Government has decided to abandon the idea of a No Deal outcome, it should not distract from the fact that they have chosen a hard Brexit, stripping away so many of the benefits of EU membership. "And while we do not yet have full details on the nature of the deal, it appears major promises made by the UK Government on fisheries have been broken and the extent of these broken promises will become apparent to all very soon." She said people in Scotland had voted overwhelmingly to remain in the EU, "but their views have been ignored". The historic post-Brexit deal with the EU on Christmas Eve came four years after 62 per cent of Scots backed remain in the 2016 referendum. Sturgeon added: 'This is a far harder Brexit than could have been imagined when the EU referendum took place, damaging and disrupting this nation's economy and society at the worst possible time. "We are doing everything we can to mitigate against the consequences of the UK Government's actions – but we cannot avert every negative outcome. "We know that businesses are already struggling under the burden of Covid-19, and are now faced with the need to prepare for this hard Brexit in little more than a week's time. "We will do all we can to help them and are issuing updated information and advice and urge those most affected, including businesses, to prepare.' Writing on Twitter about the Erasmus programme, Sturgeon said: "There will be lots of focus, rightly, on the economic costs of Brexit. But ending UK participation in Erasmus, an initiative that has expanded opportunities and horizons for so many young people, is cultural vandalism by the UK Government." Sturgeon's Scottish Nationalist Party plans to go into next year's Holyrood elections aiming for a fresh mandate from voters for a second independence referendum. The first minister has previously said that if Scotland opted for independence she would try to re-join the EU. However, questions remain about whether an independent Scotland would be allowed to become a member of the bloc. It also remains to be seen if the Brexit deal will increase support for independence among Scots. Legally, Britain left the European Union on January 31 but has been in a standstill transition period during fractious talks to secure a free-trade agreement with Brussels, which was finally clinched on Christmas Eve. Britain is the first member state to leave the EU, which was set up to forge unity after the horrors of World War II.

'We will be back soon', Scotland's Sturgeon says as Britain exits EU's orbit

British lawmakers approved Prime Minister Boris Johnson's post-Brexit trade deal with the European Union on Wednesday, as both sides looked to begin a new chapter of relations just days before their divorce becomes a reality.

UK parliament approves Brexit trade deal with EU as both sides look to future

UK PM Boris Johnson's father Stanley confirmed on Thursday that he was seeking French citizenship just when free movement of Britons was coming to an end thanks to Brexit deal delivered by his own son. Speaking to France's RTL radio, he asserted that he was French.

It's not a question of becoming French. If I understand correctly I am French! My mother was born in France, her mother was completely French as was her grandfather.

"For me it's a question of obtaining what I already have and I am very happy about that," the 80-year-old added.

Boris Johnson's father was among the first civil servants appointed to Brussells after Britain joined the European Union in 1973. He initially campaigned against UK leaving the European Union but changed his mind after Britain voted to leave EU in 2016 vote.
<img alt="Boris Johnson father" data-caption="UK PM Boris Johnson's father Stanley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6c92b3e4-86cb-4d94-bc06-6c6fac1d3dbc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1L9385.jpg" />
"I will always be European, that's for sure," he told RTL. &nbsp;

"You can't tell the English: you're not European. Europe is more than the single market, it's more than the European Union."

"That said, to have a link like that with the EU is important," he said, apparently referring to an EU passport.

His daughter Rachel had published a book in March and had already revealed his plans of seeking French citizenship.

She wrote that her grandmother was born in Versailles and said that if her father received French citizenship she too would like to become French.

(With AFP inputs)

UK PM Boris Johnson's father Stanley confirmed on Thursday that he was seeking French citizenship just when free movement of Britons was coming to an end thanks to Brexit deal delivered by his own son.

UK PM Boris Johnson's father Stanley confirmed on Thursday that he was seeking French citizenship just when free movement of Britons was coming to an end thanks to Brexit deal delivered by his own son. Speaking to France's RTL radio, he asserted that he was French. It's not a question of becoming French. If I understand correctly I am French! My mother was born in France, her mother was completely French as was her grandfather. "For me it's a question of obtaining what I already have and I am very happy about that," the 80-year-old added. Boris Johnson's father was among the first civil servants appointed to Brussells after Britain joined the European Union in 1973. He initially campaigned against UK leaving the European Union but changed his mind after Britain voted to leave EU in 2016 vote. "I will always be European, that's for sure," he told RTL. "You can't tell the English: you're not European. Europe is more than the single market, it's more than the European Union." "That said, to have a link like that with the EU is important," he said, apparently referring to an EU passport. His daughter Rachel had published a book in March and had already revealed his plans of seeking French citizenship. She wrote that her grandmother was born in Versailles and said that if her father received French citizenship she too would like to become French. (With AFP inputs)

'I am French', says UK PM Boris Johnson's father as he seeks France citizenship

The European Union on Thursday made its displeasure clear as it said that it regretted US decision to impose tariffs as part of a dispute over aircraft manufacturers Airbus and Boeing. US trade representative said on Thursday that the country was imposing tariffs on "aircraft manufacturing parts from France and Germany, certain non-sparkling wine from France and Germany, and certain cognac and other grape brandies from France and Germany,"

Airbus is a European company while Boeing is an American company.

The European Commission said it, "regrets that the United States has chosen to add further EU products to its retaliation list in the WTO Airbus case on aircraft subsidies."

Brussels complained that Washington had "unilaterally" disrupted ongoing talks and said it would seek a solution to the row with the incoming Biden administration.

US maintains that its latest move was a retaliatory measure taken in response to a tariff imposed by the EU which it says is unfair.

US and EU have been&nbsp;squabbling over aircraft subsidies for last 16 years. The battle has turned increasingly sour under protectionist policies of current US President Donald Trump.

Also Read &nbsp;| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-new-tariffs-on-french-german-products-in-airbus-boeing-spat-353514">US imposes new tariffs on French, German products in Airbus-Boeing spat</a>

The EU was authorized this year by the World Trade Organization (WTO) to levy additional customs duties on American products.&nbsp;

But Washington believes it has been penalized by the method of calculation chosen, which, according to the Trump administration, has led to an excessive amount of customs duties levied on American products.&nbsp;

(With AFP inputs)

The European Union on Thursday made its displeasure clear as it said that it regretted US decision to impose tariffs as part of a dispute over aircraft manufacturers Airbus and Boeing.

The European Union on Thursday made its displeasure clear as it said that it regretted US decision to impose tariffs as part of a dispute over aircraft manufacturers Airbus and Boeing. US trade representative said on Thursday that the country was imposing tariffs on "aircraft manufacturing parts from France and Germany, certain non-sparkling wine from France and Germany, and certain cognac and other grape brandies from France and Germany," Airbus is a European company while Boeing is an American company. The European Commission said it, "regrets that the United States has chosen to add further EU products to its retaliation list in the WTO Airbus case on aircraft subsidies." Brussels complained that Washington had "unilaterally" disrupted ongoing talks and said it would seek a solution to the row with the incoming Biden administration. US maintains that its latest move was a retaliatory measure taken in response to a tariff imposed by the EU which it says is unfair. US and EU have been squabbling over aircraft subsidies for last 16 years. The battle has turned increasingly sour under protectionist policies of current US President Donald Trump. Also Read | US imposes new tariffs on French, German products in Airbus-Boeing spat The EU was authorized this year by the World Trade Organization (WTO) to levy additional customs duties on American products. But Washington believes it has been penalized by the method of calculation chosen, which, according to the Trump administration, has led to an excessive amount of customs duties levied on American products. (With AFP inputs)

EU says it 'regrets' American tariffs over Airbus-Boeing spat

U.S has escalated tariff war at the end of the year with its one time biggest trade ally European union amid an ongoing civil aircraft dispute between Washington and brussels. The U.S has increased tariffs on certain EU products including aircraft related parts and wine from France and Germany

U.S. hikes tariffs amid EU disputes, slaps tariffs on French ,German products as well

European Union and China on Wednesday agreed "in principle" to strike a major investment deal despite concerns over labour and human rights. The deal gives EU firms better access to Chinese market. EU-China deal may be European Union's first big deal after it successfully negotiated post-Brexit&nbsp;trade deal with UK recently.

"Today, the EU and China concluded in principle negotiations on an investment agreement," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen tweeted after a video call with Xi.

Calling the deal "of major economic significance", an EU statement said: "China has committed to an unprecedented level of market access for EU investors."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-overwhelmingly-back-post-brexit-trade-deal-with-european-union-353438">British MPs overwhelmingly back post-Brexit trade deal with European Union</a>

China's state news agency Xinhua confirmed that the two sides had "completed investment agreement negotiations as scheduled."

In addition, the EU said China has committed to "effectively implement" International Labour Organization rules it has already ratified "and to work towards the ratification of the ILO fundamental conventions, including on forced labour."

Talks on the deal had begun as early as 2014 but EU previously said China did little to lift curbs on European investment in the country. However, reports suggest that trade war between China and the US may have brought about change in Chinese position

(With agency inputs)

European Union and China on Wednesday agreed "in principle" to strike a major investment deal despite concerns over labour and human rights. The deal gives EU firms better access to Chinese market.

European Union and China on Wednesday agreed "in principle" to strike a major investment deal despite concerns over labour and human rights. The deal gives EU firms better access to Chinese market. EU-China deal may be European Union's first big deal after it successfully negotiated post-Brexit trade deal with UK recently. "Today, the EU and China concluded in principle negotiations on an investment agreement," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen tweeted after a video call with Xi. Calling the deal "of major economic significance", an EU statement said: "China has committed to an unprecedented level of market access for EU investors." Also Read | British MPs overwhelmingly back post-Brexit trade deal with European Union China's state news agency Xinhua confirmed that the two sides had "completed investment agreement negotiations as scheduled." In addition, the EU said China has committed to "effectively implement" International Labour Organization rules it has already ratified "and to work towards the ratification of the ILO fundamental conventions, including on forced labour." Talks on the deal had begun as early as 2014 but EU previously said China did little to lift curbs on European investment in the country. However, reports suggest that trade war between China and the US may have brought about change in Chinese position (With agency inputs)

EU-China agree on a major investment deal

The historic post Brexit trade deal has reached the British Parliament for the vote and approval process after the officials from the UK & EU signed the trade deal in Brussels.

EU Chief signs Post Brexit Trade Deal in Brussels

Is #MakeChinaPay just a slogan without substance? China and the European Union could sign a major investment agreement this week, that could make their economies more interdependent. Palki Sharma gets you the details.

Gravitas: China and the European Union poised to sign major investment deal

British members of parliament overwhelmingly backed a post-Brexit trade deal with the European Union in the&nbsp;House of Commons on Wednesday.

The vote on the legislation to enact the trade agreement was passed by 521 to 73 votes in parliament's lower house. It now passes to the upper house for approval later on Wednesday, before becoming law around midnight.

Introducing the legislation to ratify it, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson told lawmakers it heralded "a new relationship between Britain and the EU as sovereign equals, joined by friendship, commerce, history, interests, and values.

"With this bill we are going to be a friendly neighbour, the best friend and ally the EU could have," Johnson&nbsp;said.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;EU leaders signed their post-Brexit trade deal with Britain and dispatched it to London on an RAF jet Wednesday, setting their seal on a drawn-out divorce just hours before the UK brings its half-century European experiment to an end.

The last-ditch deal averted the prospect of a cliff-edge separation which would have seen quotas and tariffs slapped on all cross-Channel trade, exacerbating strains in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic, which has hit Britain harder than most.

The agreement's impact will play out in the coming months, with UK businesses braced for customs red tape they have avoided for decades in cross-Channel trade.

Meanwhile from January 1, there will no longer be free movement of people from Britain to the EU or vice versa.&nbsp;

Under the compressed legislative calendar, the European Parliament will debate the Brexit deal after the New Year, but they are expected to eventually nod it through.&nbsp;

Pending that, EU member states gave their green light on Monday for the accord to take provisional effect before Thursday's deadline.

British members of parliament overwhelmingly backed a post-Brexit trade deal with the European Union in the House of Commons on Wednesday. The vote on the legislation to enact the trade agreement was passed by 521 to 73 votes in parliament's lower house.

British members of parliament overwhelmingly backed a post-Brexit trade deal with the European Union in the House of Commons on Wednesday. The vote on the legislation to enact the trade agreement was passed by 521 to 73 votes in parliament's lower house. It now passes to the upper house for approval later on Wednesday, before becoming law around midnight. Introducing the legislation to ratify it, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson told lawmakers it heralded "a new relationship between Britain and the EU as sovereign equals, joined by friendship, commerce, history, interests, and values. "With this bill we are going to be a friendly neighbour, the best friend and ally the EU could have," Johnson said. Meanwhile, EU leaders signed their post-Brexit trade deal with Britain and dispatched it to London on an RAF jet Wednesday, setting their seal on a drawn-out divorce just hours before the UK brings its half-century European experiment to an end. The last-ditch deal averted the prospect of a cliff-edge separation which would have seen quotas and tariffs slapped on all cross-Channel trade, exacerbating strains in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic, which has hit Britain harder than most. The agreement's impact will play out in the coming months, with UK businesses braced for customs red tape they have avoided for decades in cross-Channel trade. Meanwhile from January 1, there will no longer be free movement of people from Britain to the EU or vice versa. Under the compressed legislative calendar, the European Parliament will debate the Brexit deal after the New Year, but they are expected to eventually nod it through. Pending that, EU member states gave their green light on Monday for the accord to take provisional effect before Thursday's deadline.

British MPs overwhelmingly back post-Brexit trade deal with European Union

European Union and China have agreed 'in-principle' to strike a major investment deal that EU officials said would give EU companies "unprecedented" access to Chinese markets. Meanwhile, blasts rocked airport in Aden, Yemen as plane carrying unity government members landed. A fisherman has been reported to have caught a 'Chinese' submarine drone in Indonesia. Read this and much more in top 10 world news.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blasts-at-aden-airport-in-yemen-as-unity-government-arrives-5-dead-353398">Blasts at Aden airport in Yemen as unity government arrives; 5 dead</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blasts-at-aden-airport-in-yemen-as-unity-government-arrives-5-dead-353398"><img alt="Yemen blast" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4fc9849f-99d4-4068-87c1-559dc4d536cb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/yemen%20new.PNG" /></a> 
 
Reports said there were at least two blasts with five people killed in the explosion at Aden airport in Yemen.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-china-agree-on-a-major-investment-deal-353420">EU-China agree on a major investment deal</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-china-agree-on-a-major-investment-deal-353420"><img alt="EU-China deal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b43584a7-9b0f-488f-850a-3ab88fec7cf3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/EU-China.PNG" /></a> 
 
Calling the deal "of major economic significance", an EU statement said: "China has committed to an unprecedented level of market access for EU investors."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesian-fisherman-catches-chinese-submarine-drone-353396">Indonesian fisherman catches 'Chinese' submarine drone</a>

<img alt="Indonesia Chinese drone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7c2424db-6234-4cc9-8ab3-d6a8e8e48a82" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Capture%201_0.JPG" />

China has long been working to increase its presence in Indian Ocean where Indian Navy is dominant

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-brushes-aside-fears-of-uighur-deportations-to-china-353427">Turkey brushes aside fears of Uighur deportations to China</a>

<img alt="Turkey" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="856d4935-8dad-4893-bc4d-a62c59c347dd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Turkey_3.JPG" /> 
 
Turkey has linguistic and cultural ties with the Uighurs and Ankara has for quite some time been one of the primary safeguards of their motivation on the worldwide stage, however lately Turkey's public demonstration of help has faded

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-air-force-to-induct-indigenously-built-chinas-jf-17-fighter-jet-report-353387">Pakistan Air Force to induct indigenously built China's JF-17 fighter jet: Report</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-air-force-to-induct-indigenously-built-chinas-jf-17-fighter-jet-report-353387"><img alt="Pakistan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4c3d4f89-5d6b-485f-b99c-8935bfcfa4c4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Pakistan_0.JPG" /></a> 
 
China's JF-17 fighter mostly relies on Russian engine supplies even then Pakistan hopes it will give its Air Force an edge over the Indian Air Force(IAF).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-bans-hardline-islamic-defenders-front-group-353416">Indonesia bans hardline Islamic Defender's Front group</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-bans-hardline-islamic-defenders-front-group-353416"><img alt="Indonesia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fd60de0f-7277-4c07-be71-4fe8edbf02ad" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Indonesia_0.JPG" /></a> 
 
The ban follows the November return of the group's spiritual figurehead, Rizieq Shihab, from three years of self-exile in Saudi Arabia, which was celebrated with events attended by thousands

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pranksters-are-hijacking-smart-devices-to-live-stream-swatting-says-fbi-353401">Pranksters are hijacking smart devices to live-stream swatting, says FBI</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pranksters-are-hijacking-smart-devices-to-live-stream-swatting-says-fbi-353401"><img alt="SWAT" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee478d10-e414-44d0-ba43-31300fcc256b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/swat.JPG" /></a> 
 
FBI authorities state pranksters are assuming control over gadgets on which proprietors made records yet reused accreditations that previously leaked online during data breaches at other companies

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-anti-semitic-attack-jewish-graves-vandalised-with-swastikas-353383">France anti-Semitic attack: Jewish graves vandalised with swastikas</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-anti-semitic-attack-jewish-graves-vandalised-with-swastikas-353383"><img alt="Swastika" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b59fb19a-a905-4991-82a8-125b68377e1c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Swastika.JPG" /></a> 
 
French Interior Minister Christophe Castaner assured that everything was being done to guarantee the miscreants are dealt with

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nawaz-sharifs-passport-will-be-cancelled-on-february-16-shaikh-rasheed-353399">Nawaz Sharif's passport will be cancelled on February 16: Shaikh Rasheed</a>

<img alt="Nawaz" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="75561396-47b9-4371-97fb-8cdd1a8d39bb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Nawaz.JPG" />

Nawaz Sharif has been living in London since November last year after he was permitted to leave the nation for clinical treatment

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-crackdown-on-alibabas-jack-ma-cost-him-11-billion-353324">China's crackdown on Alibaba's Jack Ma cost him $11 billion</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-crackdown-on-alibabas-jack-ma-cost-him-11-billion-353324"><img alt="Jack Ma" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6b9d3cf3-f1b2-4a24-bdee-65a989dc884d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Jack%20ma.JPG" /></a> 
 
Chinese tycoon Jack Ma’s fortune has been hit hard as Chinese authorities crack down on his empire 
&nbsp;

European Union and China have agreed 'in-principle' to strike a major investment deal that EU officials said would give EU companies "unprecedented" access to Chinese markets.

European Union and China have agreed 'in-principle' to strike a major investment deal that EU officials said would give EU companies "unprecedented" access to Chinese markets. Meanwhile, blasts rocked airport in Aden, Yemen as plane carrying unity government members landed. A fisherman has been reported to have caught a 'Chinese' submarine drone in Indonesia. Read this and much more in top 10 world news. Blasts at Aden airport in Yemen as unity government arrives; 5 dead Reports said there were at least two blasts with five people killed in the explosion at Aden airport in Yemen. EU-China agree on a major investment deal Calling the deal "of major economic significance", an EU statement said: "China has committed to an unprecedented level of market access for EU investors." Indonesian fisherman catches 'Chinese' submarine drone China has long been working to increase its presence in Indian Ocean where Indian Navy is dominant Turkey brushes aside fears of Uighur deportations to China Turkey has linguistic and cultural ties with the Uighurs and Ankara has for quite some time been one of the primary safeguards of their motivation on the worldwide stage, however lately Turkey's public demonstration of help has faded Pakistan Air Force to induct indigenously built China's JF-17 fighter jet: Report China's JF-17 fighter mostly relies on Russian engine supplies even then Pakistan hopes it will give its Air Force an edge over the Indian Air Force(IAF). Indonesia bans hardline Islamic Defender's Front group The ban follows the November return of the group's spiritual figurehead, Rizieq Shihab, from three years of self-exile in Saudi Arabia, which was celebrated with events attended by thousands Pranksters are hijacking smart devices to live-stream swatting, says FBI FBI authorities state pranksters are assuming control over gadgets on which proprietors made records yet reused accreditations that previously leaked online during data breaches at other companies France anti-Semitic attack: Jewish graves vandalised with swastikas French Interior Minister Christophe Castaner assured that everything was being done to guarantee the miscreants are dealt with Nawaz Sharif's passport will be cancelled on February 16: Shaikh Rasheed Nawaz Sharif has been living in London since November last year after he was permitted to leave the nation for clinical treatment China's crackdown on Alibaba's Jack Ma cost him $11 billion Chinese tycoon Jack Ma’s fortune has been hit hard as Chinese authorities crack down on his empire

Top 10 world news: EU-China deal, blast in Yemen, and more

The European Union set to buy an extra 100 million doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine. In total, EU has fetched 300 million doses of the vaccine from the duo so far, as stated by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Tuesday.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fineprint-eu-regulator-clears-way-for-use-of-pfizer-covid-19-vaccine-in-europe-351434/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We decided to take an additional 100 million doses of the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine, which is already being used to vaccinate people across the EU," she announced on Twitter. 
 
"We will therefore have 300 million doses of this vaccine, which was assessed as safe and effective," the EC president added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/8-people-aged-between-38-and-54-overdosed-on-pfizer-vaccine-in-germany-show-flu-symptoms-353011" hreflang="en">8 people aged between 38 and 54 overdosed on Pfizer vaccine in Germany, show flu symptoms</a> 
 
Many of the vaccine candidates for which the EU had secured orders have run into delays owing to clinical trials, prompting the bloc to rely on shots from fewer manufactures.

The jab made by Pfizer and BioNTech is the first vaccine to be approved by regulators in the West, and is being rolled out in many countries including Britain and the United States.

Pfizer and BioNTech had agreed to quickly deliver 200 million doses of the vaccine for $18.8 per piece, EU officials had told Reuters in November.

The extra doses will be provided at the same rate, but the timetable may be negotiated, as stated by EU officials. Pfizer and BioNTech in a statement said that all 300 doses are expected to be delivered in 2020 and 2021.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/over-600000-people-in-britain-get-first-pfizer-covid-19-vaccine-jab-352187" hreflang="en">Over 600,000 people in Britain get first Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine jab</a>

"The additional 100 million doses will be delivered in 2021, supporting the vaccination campaigns, which started two days ago in all 27 member states," BioNTech Chief Executive Officer Ugur Sahin stated. 
 
The EU has a population of 450 million people, and is relying on Pfizer’s 200 million shots to vaccinate its people.

The EU is also set to approve the shot developed by Moderna in January 2021. Initially, an order for 80 million doses has been placed, with 80 million more doses to be fetched later on.

Both vaccines - Pfizer and Moderna require two doses per person. In total, the EU has booked 1.3 billion doses of vaccines as part of deals with Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca-Oxford, Johnson &amp; Johnson, Sanofi-GSK, CureVac among many. In addition, the bloc could procure 660 million more doses.

The European Union set to buy an extra 100 million doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine. In total, EU has fetched 300 million doses of the vaccine from the duo so far, as stated by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Tuesday.

The European Union set to buy an extra 100 million doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine. In total, EU has fetched 300 million doses of the vaccine from the duo so far, as stated by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Tuesday. "We decided to take an additional 100 million doses of the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine, which is already being used to vaccinate people across the EU," she announced on Twitter. "We will therefore have 300 million doses of this vaccine, which was assessed as safe and effective," the EC president added. Also read: 8 people aged between 38 and 54 overdosed on Pfizer vaccine in Germany, show flu symptoms Many of the vaccine candidates for which the EU had secured orders have run into delays owing to clinical trials, prompting the bloc to rely on shots from fewer manufactures. The jab made by Pfizer and BioNTech is the first vaccine to be approved by regulators in the West, and is being rolled out in many countries including Britain and the United States. Pfizer and BioNTech had agreed to quickly deliver 200 million doses of the vaccine for $18.8 per piece, EU officials had told Reuters in November. The extra doses will be provided at the same rate, but the timetable may be negotiated, as stated by EU officials. Pfizer and BioNTech in a statement said that all 300 doses are expected to be delivered in 2020 and 2021. Also read: Over 600,000 people in Britain get first Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine jab "The additional 100 million doses will be delivered in 2021, supporting the vaccination campaigns, which started two days ago in all 27 member states," BioNTech Chief Executive Officer Ugur Sahin stated. The EU has a population of 450 million people, and is relying on Pfizer’s 200 million shots to vaccinate its people. The EU is also set to approve the shot developed by Moderna in January 2021. Initially, an order for 80 million doses has been placed, with 80 million more doses to be fetched later on. Both vaccines - Pfizer and Moderna require two doses per person. In total, the EU has booked 1.3 billion doses of vaccines as part of deals with Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca-Oxford, Johnson & Johnson, Sanofi-GSK, CureVac among many. In addition, the bloc could procure 660 million more doses.

EU to buy 100 million more doses of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, taking the total to 300 million

European Union chiefs Ursula von der Leyen and Charles Michel signed the post-Brexit trade deal agreed with Britain on Wednesday, officials said.&nbsp;

The documents will be flown to the UK for Prime Minister Boris Johnson to sign later today.

It will then come into force at 2300 GMT on Thursday, European sources said.

The UK Parliament will later start debating the agreement setting up new trade rules between the 27-nation bloc and former member Britain.&nbsp;

The agreement needs approval from Britains Parliament, and from the EUs legislature, which is not expected to take up the deal for weeks.

(With inputs from agencies)

European Union chiefs Ursula von der Leyen and Charles Michel signed the post-Brexit trade deal agreed with Britain on Wednesday, officials said. The documents will be flown to the UK for Prime Minister Boris Johnson to sign later today.

European Union chiefs Ursula von der Leyen and Charles Michel signed the post-Brexit trade deal agreed with Britain on Wednesday, officials said. The documents will be flown to the UK for Prime Minister Boris Johnson to sign later today. It will then come into force at 2300 GMT on Thursday, European sources said. The UK Parliament will later start debating the agreement setting up new trade rules between the 27-nation bloc and former member Britain. The agreement needs approval from Britains Parliament, and from the EUs legislature, which is not expected to take up the deal for weeks. (With inputs from agencies)

European Union chiefs sign post-Brexit UK trade deal

The United Kingdom and the european union sealed a crucial trade deal it covers most aspects of post-brexit for United Kingdom. Though there is one sticking point still remains, that it's a small slice of land located on the tip of Iberian Peninsula Called Gibraltar, Watch this report to know more.

Spain & U.K. Discusses Border Policing on Gibraltar

EU member states gave political backing to Brussels' planned investment pact with China on Monday, clearing the way for a deal between the world's biggest economic blocs.

China&nbsp;and the European Union are likely to clinch a deal this week&nbsp;despite concerns over the country's rights and labour record.&nbsp;

Talks on the investment deal began in 2014 but were stuck for years as the EU said&nbsp;China&nbsp;was failing to make good on promises to lift curbs on EU investment despite a pledge to open up the world’s second-largest economy.

But tensions in trade relations between the United States and&nbsp;China&nbsp;may have helped change the Chinese position and bring about a deal between Beijing and Brussels, officials said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-urges-china-to-release-of-12-hong-kong-pro-democracy-activists-353198" hreflang="en">EU urges China to release of 12 Hong Kong pro-democracy activists</a>

If there is political agreement on the deal on Wednesday, its transposition into legal texts could take several months. Together with the ratification process, that could mean it will be about a year before it is implemented, officials said.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told a regular news briefing on Tuesday that talks had made huge progress and that&nbsp;China&nbsp;hopes a deal can come to fruition "at an early date".

The negotiations have been conducted by the European Commission, which handles all external trade issues for the 27-nation bloc, with the aim of getting the same access for EU firms that Chinese companies already have to the EU market.

The investment agreement also prohibits forced transfer of technologies by EU firms that establish themselves in&nbsp;China, and contains measures to discipline Chinese state-owned companies when it comes to competition on the Chinese market and rules on the transparency of state subsidies to Chinese enterprises.

Under the agreement,&nbsp;China&nbsp;will also pledge to subscribe to the International Labour Organisation's rules on forced labour.

China&nbsp;wanted access to the EU's energy market, but given sensitivities over national security, the Commission offered Beijing access to only a small part of the renewable energy sector, and only on a reciprocal basis, the officials said.

Ambassadors of EU governments in Brussels discussed the agreement on Monday, and no country had any major problems with it, the officials said.

Poland suggested the EU should wait to discuss the deal with the new US&nbsp;administration of President-elect Joe Biden, they added, but other countries did not share this view.

'Systematic rival'

While Donald Trump's administration has engaged in a war of words with Beijing, Brussels has taken a balanced approach.

The EU states treat China as a "systemic rival" and have expressed concerns over China's rights record, especially its clampdown in Hong Kong and treatment of the Uighurs.&nbsp;

Berlin wanted to get the agreement signed off at a joint EU-China summit in September, but the coronavirus pushed the event online and no deal was signed.

China pushed past the United States in the third quarter of this year to become the EU's top trade partner, as the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the US economy while Chinese activity rebounded.

EU member states gave political backing to Brussels' planned investment pact with China on Monday, clearing the way for a deal between the world's biggest economic blocs.

EU member states gave political backing to Brussels' planned investment pact with China on Monday, clearing the way for a deal between the world's biggest economic blocs. China and the European Union are likely to clinch a deal this week despite concerns over the country's rights and labour record. Talks on the investment deal began in 2014 but were stuck for years as the EU said China was failing to make good on promises to lift curbs on EU investment despite a pledge to open up the world’s second-largest economy. But tensions in trade relations between the United States and China may have helped change the Chinese position and bring about a deal between Beijing and Brussels, officials said. Also read: EU urges China to release of 12 Hong Kong pro-democracy activists If there is political agreement on the deal on Wednesday, its transposition into legal texts could take several months. Together with the ratification process, that could mean it will be about a year before it is implemented, officials said. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told a regular news briefing on Tuesday that talks had made huge progress and that China hopes a deal can come to fruition "at an early date". The negotiations have been conducted by the European Commission, which handles all external trade issues for the 27-nation bloc, with the aim of getting the same access for EU firms that Chinese companies already have to the EU market. The investment agreement also prohibits forced transfer of technologies by EU firms that establish themselves in China, and contains measures to discipline Chinese state-owned companies when it comes to competition on the Chinese market and rules on the transparency of state subsidies to Chinese enterprises. Under the agreement, China will also pledge to subscribe to the International Labour Organisation's rules on forced labour. China wanted access to the EU's energy market, but given sensitivities over national security, the Commission offered Beijing access to only a small part of the renewable energy sector, and only on a reciprocal basis, the officials said. Ambassadors of EU governments in Brussels discussed the agreement on Monday, and no country had any major problems with it, the officials said. Poland suggested the EU should wait to discuss the deal with the new US administration of President-elect Joe Biden, they added, but other countries did not share this view. 'Systematic rival' While Donald Trump's administration has engaged in a war of words with Beijing, Brussels has taken a balanced approach. The EU states treat China as a "systemic rival" and have expressed concerns over China's rights record, especially its clampdown in Hong Kong and treatment of the Uighurs. Berlin wanted to get the agreement signed off at a joint EU-China summit in September, but the coronavirus pushed the event online and no deal was signed. China pushed past the United States in the third quarter of this year to become the EU's top trade partner, as the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the US economy while Chinese activity rebounded.

European Union paves way for investment deal with China

An “exceptional victory,” the result of “fantastic work” and a deal that “delivered” for the British people.

Even before the text of the post-Brexit trade agreement was published, lawmakers loyal to Prime Minister Boris Johnson lavished praise on him for resolving an issue that has convulsed British politics for almost half a decade.

When Parliament convenes to ratify the document, the question will only be the size of Johnson’s majority for a deal that severs close economic ties to continental Europe on Jan. 1 after almost 50 years. Even the opposition Labour Party will officially support it, arguing that it is better than nothing.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/johnson-sold-out-fish-stocks-in-new-brexit-deal-claim-british-fishermen-352636">Johnson sold out fish stocks in new Brexit deal, claim British fishermen</a>

Yet this is unlikely to be the final word in the Conservative bloodletting over Europe that has, at least in part, led to the downfall of the party’s last four prime ministers.

Hard-line Brexit supporters have yet to examine the agreement, and they probably will not like every word of an estimated 2,000 pages of dense treaty text and annexes. A small group did not want any trade deal at all, never really trusted Johnson and might still be inclined to make trouble for him.

Already, an organization representing British trawler fleets has expressed disappointment at compromises over fishing rights, and the Scottish government has attacked the deal, arguing it strengthens the case for Scotland’s independence.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/incoming-swiss-president-calls-post-brexit-deal-good-news-for-whole-world-352773">Incoming Swiss president calls post-Brexit deal 'good news for whole world</a>

“In the short term, the Tory Party is pretty united around the very hard Brexit that Boris Johnson pushed Britain toward but which many Britons never thought they were voting for,” said Charles Grant, director of the Center for European Reform, a research institute.

But the agreement provides only limited economic benefits for Britain, and friction with the European Union is likely to remain, added Grant, who said the country’s post-Brexit relationship with the European Union may not be much more stable than what preceded it.

“In the longer term, the rift may reopen,” he said, adding that pressure might grow once the deal’s limitations become clear.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/full-post-brexit-text-goes-beyond-a-canada-style-deal-report-says-352461" hreflang="en">Full post-Brexit text goes beyond a 'Canada-style' deal, report says</a>

The pandemic has plunged Britain into the worst recession in three centuries, so post-Brexit politics remain highly volatile, said Anand Menon, professor of European politics at King’s College, London.

And the Brexit debate has poisoned the workings of the Conservative Party, which had long been known for a pragmatic and successful pursuit of power rather than an adherence to political doctrine.

Now, despite achieving his aim of getting “Brexit done,” Johnson cannot assume that the divisions are over.

“Europe has turned the Conservatives into an ideological party, and it has basically got in the way of Conservative governments governing,” Menon said.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/brexit-is-finally-done-but-it-already-seems-out-of-date-352414" hreflang="en">Brexit is finally done, but it already seems out of date</a>

An influential caucus of pro-Brexit Conservative lawmakers known as the European Research Group has yet to weigh in on the agreement, and Johnson has been working hard to bring them on his side. How many of those lawmakers oppose him and who they are will be very significant, Menon said.

“If you have 20 to 40 of them screaming ‘betrayal,’ that changes the dynamic,” he said.

Waiting in the wings is Nigel Farage, the populist anti-EU politician who has now rebranded his Brexit Party as Reform UK and has shown his skill in the past at peeling off Conservative supporters.

On Thursday, Farage cautiously welcomed Johnson’s deal but with the important caveat that he had yet to read the fine print.

Some Brexit supporters have always scented that betrayal would lie somewhere within any treaty negotiated with the European Union and, even before the agreement was struck, it was being denounced as another in a long series of British surrenders to Brussels. One commentary article in the pro-Brexit Daily Telegraph argued that the government had been “outsmarted at every turn.”

Others agree with that analysis, but from a more pro-European perspective, noting that even official forecasts suggest Britain will lose out on significant economic growth under Johnson’s deal.

Many businesses will notice the limitations of Johnson’s agreement as soon as Britain leaves the European Union’s giant single market and customs union on Jan. 1. The accord failed to secure much of anything for the services sector, for example, which accounts for around four-fifths of the British economy.

And the deal increases barriers rather than eliminating them for the manufacturing sector and agriculture. So while there will be no taxes on the import and export of goods, there will be additional checks on them — so-called nontariff barriers.

Delays at ports — of which Britain just got an ugly foretaste, when France briefly blocked all travelers and freight from Britain — will add significant costs to companies, which will have to make an estimated 20 million new customs declarations each year and face other compliance costs.

“In the long run, it is such a bad deal that the more moderate wing of the Tory Party may try to get a better deal,” said Grant of the Center for European Reform, noting the Conservatives’ traditional link to business.

Yet perhaps the biggest danger for Britain is that it is now stranded awkwardly, half-in, half-out of the European economic system, leaving its relationship with the bloc as fraught and politically combustible as ever.

As a big economy that shares a land border with Ireland, an EU country, Britain will be unable to escape the huge trading bloc’s gravitational pull, any more than other neighbors that stayed aloof from it, experts say.

“It means a process of almost permanent negotiation between Britain and the EU,” Grant said, “and every time that happens, it will pump up the emotion and the rhetoric.”

An “exceptional victory,” the result of “fantastic work” and a deal that “delivered” for the British people. Even before the text of the post-Brexit trade agreement was published, lawmakers loyal to Prime Minister Boris Johnson lavished praise on him for resolving an issue that has convulsed British politics for almost half a decade.

An “exceptional victory,” the result of “fantastic work” and a deal that “delivered” for the British people. Even before the text of the post-Brexit trade agreement was published, lawmakers loyal to Prime Minister Boris Johnson lavished praise on him for resolving an issue that has convulsed British politics for almost half a decade. When Parliament convenes to ratify the document, the question will only be the size of Johnson’s majority for a deal that severs close economic ties to continental Europe on Jan. 1 after almost 50 years. Even the opposition Labour Party will officially support it, arguing that it is better than nothing. Also read| Johnson sold out fish stocks in new Brexit deal, claim British fishermen Yet this is unlikely to be the final word in the Conservative bloodletting over Europe that has, at least in part, led to the downfall of the party’s last four prime ministers. Hard-line Brexit supporters have yet to examine the agreement, and they probably will not like every word of an estimated 2,000 pages of dense treaty text and annexes. A small group did not want any trade deal at all, never really trusted Johnson and might still be inclined to make trouble for him. Already, an organization representing British trawler fleets has expressed disappointment at compromises over fishing rights, and the Scottish government has attacked the deal, arguing it strengthens the case for Scotland’s independence. Also read| Incoming Swiss president calls post-Brexit deal 'good news for whole world “In the short term, the Tory Party is pretty united around the very hard Brexit that Boris Johnson pushed Britain toward but which many Britons never thought they were voting for,” said Charles Grant, director of the Center for European Reform, a research institute. But the agreement provides only limited economic benefits for Britain, and friction with the European Union is likely to remain, added Grant, who said the country’s post-Brexit relationship with the European Union may not be much more stable than what preceded it. “In the longer term, the rift may reopen,” he said, adding that pressure might grow once the deal’s limitations become clear. Also read| Full post-Brexit text goes beyond a 'Canada-style' deal, report says The pandemic has plunged Britain into the worst recession in three centuries, so post-Brexit politics remain highly volatile, said Anand Menon, professor of European politics at King’s College, London. And the Brexit debate has poisoned the workings of the Conservative Party, which had long been known for a pragmatic and successful pursuit of power rather than an adherence to political doctrine. Now, despite achieving his aim of getting “Brexit done,” Johnson cannot assume that the divisions are over. “Europe has turned the Conservatives into an ideological party, and it has basically got in the way of Conservative governments governing,” Menon said. Also read| Brexit is finally done, but it already seems out of date An influential caucus of pro-Brexit Conservative lawmakers known as the European Research Group has yet to weigh in on the agreement, and Johnson has been working hard to bring them on his side. How many of those lawmakers oppose him and who they are will be very significant, Menon said. “If you have 20 to 40 of them screaming ‘betrayal,’ that changes the dynamic,” he said. Waiting in the wings is Nigel Farage, the populist anti-EU politician who has now rebranded his Brexit Party as Reform UK and has shown his skill in the past at peeling off Conservative supporters. On Thursday, Farage cautiously welcomed Johnson’s deal but with the important caveat that he had yet to read the fine print. Some Brexit supporters have always scented that betrayal would lie somewhere within any treaty negotiated with the European Union and, even before the agreement was struck, it was being denounced as another in a long series of British surrenders to Brussels. One commentary article in the pro-Brexit Daily Telegraph argued that the government had been “outsmarted at every turn.” Others agree with that analysis, but from a more pro-European perspective, noting that even official forecasts suggest Britain will lose out on significant economic growth under Johnson’s deal. Many businesses will notice the limitations of Johnson’s agreement as soon as Britain leaves the European Union’s giant single market and customs union on Jan. 1. The accord failed to secure much of anything for the services sector, for example, which accounts for around four-fifths of the British economy. And the deal increases barriers rather than eliminating them for the manufacturing sector and agriculture. So while there will be no taxes on the import and export of goods, there will be additional checks on them — so-called nontariff barriers. Delays at ports — of which Britain just got an ugly foretaste, when France briefly blocked all travelers and freight from Britain — will add significant costs to companies, which will have to make an estimated 20 million new customs declarations each year and face other compliance costs. “In the long run, it is such a bad deal that the more moderate wing of the Tory Party may try to get a better deal,” said Grant of the Center for European Reform, noting the Conservatives’ traditional link to business. Yet perhaps the biggest danger for Britain is that it is now stranded awkwardly, half-in, half-out of the European economic system, leaving its relationship with the bloc as fraught and politically combustible as ever. As a big economy that shares a land border with Ireland, an EU country, Britain will be unable to escape the huge trading bloc’s gravitational pull, any more than other neighbors that stayed aloof from it, experts say. “It means a process of almost permanent negotiation between Britain and the EU,” Grant said, “and every time that happens, it will pump up the emotion and the rhetoric.”

Boris Johnson delivered on Brexit. It may not soothe his unruly party.

Britain's 'Iron lady'&nbsp;Margaret Thatcher believed the European Commission's plan for a single currency in the European Union was a "rush of blood to the head".

The thoughts of Thatcher were revealed after the Irish government released 30-years-old archives in which the Tory leader's thoughts on the 'politburo' in Brussels has been recorded during a conversation with her Irish government.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/johnson-sold-out-fish-stocks-in-new-brexit-deal-claim-british-fishermen-352636">Johnson sold out fish stocks in new Brexit deal, claim British fishermen</a>

"In talking of a single currency, [Jacques] Delors must have had a rush of blood to the head," she said blasting at the then-European Union leader Jacques Delors. "We are not going to have a single currency."

The archives released date back to June 1990 when Thatcher was in conversation with&nbsp;Irish taoiseach Charles Haughey, where she described Delors as a "mere appointee".

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/full-post-brexit-text-goes-beyond-a-canada-style-deal-report-says-352461" hreflang="en">Full post-Brexit text goes beyond a 'Canada-style' deal, report says</a>

As per the papers, Thatcher wanted the European Commission to turn into a&nbsp;professional civil service with the aim of providing service to the ministers representing the governments, rather than taking initiatives.

She was apparently also against the European Court allegedly giving more power to the commission. "The days of appointed commissioners must be numbered. We must give power to the council of ministers," she said. "I am not handing over authority to a non-elected bureaucracy … I am getting completely fed up with the European community trying to tie us up with bureaucratic regulations."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/brexit-is-finally-done-but-it-already-seems-out-of-date-352414" hreflang="en">Brexit is finally done, but it already seems out of date</a>

The Irish counterpart, Haughey, also alleged the commission of contacting the Irish local authorities and inviting them for a 'talk' in Brussels. "They are going behind the back of the government," he alleged.

Thatcher admitted that the commission was needed "to start off" but also believed that it has now become a "totally non-democratic power structure" and strongly opposed the idea of the&nbsp;European police force.

She had also made clear that she would not accept a&nbsp;central bank of the then 12 EU member states and would rather work with&nbsp;deutschmark to keep inflation down, as the Germans had&nbsp;experience of inflation and still kept its currency like a gold standard.

"They would think of economic growth and jobs and inflation as equal objectives and mix them all up. All we want is an effective gold standard and the deutschmark provides us with that," she said.

Britain's 'Iron lady' Margaret Thatcher believed the European Commission's plan for a single currency in the European Union was a "rush of blood to the head". The thoughts of Thatcher were revealed after the Irish government released 30-years-old archives in which the Tory leader's thoughts on the 'politburo' in Brussels has been recorded during a conversation with her Irish government.

Britain's 'Iron lady' Margaret Thatcher believed the European Commission's plan for a single currency in the European Union was a "rush of blood to the head". The thoughts of Thatcher were revealed after the Irish government released 30-years-old archives in which the Tory leader's thoughts on the 'politburo' in Brussels has been recorded during a conversation with her Irish government. Also read| Johnson sold out fish stocks in new Brexit deal, claim British fishermen "In talking of a single currency, [Jacques] Delors must have had a rush of blood to the head," she said blasting at the then-European Union leader Jacques Delors. "We are not going to have a single currency." The archives released date back to June 1990 when Thatcher was in conversation with Irish taoiseach Charles Haughey, where she described Delors as a "mere appointee". Also read| Full post-Brexit text goes beyond a 'Canada-style' deal, report says As per the papers, Thatcher wanted the European Commission to turn into a professional civil service with the aim of providing service to the ministers representing the governments, rather than taking initiatives. She was apparently also against the European Court allegedly giving more power to the commission. "The days of appointed commissioners must be numbered. We must give power to the council of ministers," she said. "I am not handing over authority to a non-elected bureaucracy … I am getting completely fed up with the European community trying to tie us up with bureaucratic regulations." Also read| Brexit is finally done, but it already seems out of date The Irish counterpart, Haughey, also alleged the commission of contacting the Irish local authorities and inviting them for a 'talk' in Brussels. "They are going behind the back of the government," he alleged. Thatcher admitted that the commission was needed "to start off" but also believed that it has now become a "totally non-democratic power structure" and strongly opposed the idea of the European police force. She had also made clear that she would not accept a central bank of the then 12 EU member states and would rather work with deutschmark to keep inflation down, as the Germans had experience of inflation and still kept its currency like a gold standard. "They would think of economic growth and jobs and inflation as equal objectives and mix them all up. All we want is an effective gold standard and the deutschmark provides us with that," she said.

Margaret Thatcher said no to Euro as 'one currency', Irish archives reveal

The European Union began a vaccine rollout Saturday, even as countries in the bloc were forced back into lockdown by a new strain of the virus, believed to be more infectious, that continues to spread from Britain.

The pandemic has claimed more than 1.7 million lives and is still running rampant in much of the world, but the recent launching of innoculation campaigns has boosted hopes that 2021 could bring a respite.

Hours before the first vaccine doses arrived in France, Paris' health ministry confirmed late Friday that it had detected its first case of the new variant in a citizen returned from Britain.

Several countries have reported cases of the new strain, which has sent jitters through already overstretched health services.

There was little sign of the usual Boxing Day sale rush on the streets of Sydney Saturday, as residents largely heeded the state premier's request they stay home faced with a new virus cluster.&nbsp;

"Even when we entered the store there were less than ten people," shopper Lia Gunawan told The Sydney Morning Herald after queueing up for the sales.

Even as some European nations eye a post-Christmas return to harsh restrictions, China's communist leadership issued a statement hailing the "extremely extraordinary glory" of its handling of the virus that emerged in the country's Hubei province last year, state news agency Xinhua reported.

Across the world, people are being urged to respect social distancing guidelines, as the World Health Organisation urged people not to "squander" the "great, heart-wrenching sacrifices" people had made to save lives.

- New variant -&nbsp;

The first French case of the new coronavirus variant was found in a citizen resident in Britain who arrived from London on December 19, the French health ministry said.&nbsp;

They are asymptomatic and self-isolating at home in Tours in central France, and contact-tracing has taken place for the health professionals who treated him.&nbsp;

The new strain of the virus, which experts fear is more contagious, prompted more than 50 countries to impose travel restrictions on the UK, where it first emerged.

But cases of the new variant have still been reported worldwide: on Friday, Japan confirmed five infections in passengers from the UK, while cases have also been reported in Denmark, Lebanon, Germany, Australia and the Netherlands.&nbsp;

South Africa has detected a similar mutation in some infected people, but on Friday denied British claims its strain was more infectious or dangerous than the one originating in the UK.

The closure of the UK-France border for 48 hours led to a bottleneck of up to 10,000 lorries in southeast England, with drivers stranded for days over the festive period.&nbsp;

But the head of the Calais port operator told AFP that after the port remained open over Christmas specially, the "situation should be completely taken care of" soon.&nbsp;

- New restrictions -&nbsp;

Some countries that loosened restrictions slightly for Christmas have re-imposed them -- Austria, for example, will see a curfew imposed from Saturday until 24 January.&nbsp;

Millions in the United Kingdom have been affected by a tightening of restrictions there -- according to the BBC, more than 40% of England's population are now affected by the strictest measures -- which include the closure of all non-essential businesses and a limiting of social contacts.

New lockdowns also started in Scotland and Northern Ireland on Saturday, and Wales has re-imposed restrictions too after relaxing them for Christmas.

More than 25 million infections have been recorded in Europe, according to an AFP tally on Friday.

- Vaccine hope -&nbsp;

Vaccinations in all 27 European Union countries will begin on Sunday, after regulators approved the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine on 21 December.&nbsp;

As vaccine rollout gets underway across the world, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned on Friday: &nbsp;

"Vaccines are offering the world a way out of this tragedy. But it will take time for the whole world to be vaccinated."

The pope's Christmas message also referenced the issue, with a plea for "vaccines for all".&nbsp;

"I call on everyone, on leaders of states, on businesses, on international organisations, to promote cooperation and not competition, to find a solution for everyone... especially the most vulnerable and most in need in all regions of the planet," Pope Francis said.

The European Union began a vaccine rollout Saturday, even as countries in the bloc were forced back into lockdown by a new strain of the virus, believed to be more infectious, that continues to spread from Britain.

The European Union began a vaccine rollout Saturday, even as countries in the bloc were forced back into lockdown by a new strain of the virus, believed to be more infectious, that continues to spread from Britain. The pandemic has claimed more than 1.7 million lives and is still running rampant in much of the world, but the recent launching of innoculation campaigns has boosted hopes that 2021 could bring a respite. Hours before the first vaccine doses arrived in France, Paris' health ministry confirmed late Friday that it had detected its first case of the new variant in a citizen returned from Britain. Several countries have reported cases of the new strain, which has sent jitters through already overstretched health services. There was little sign of the usual Boxing Day sale rush on the streets of Sydney Saturday, as residents largely heeded the state premier's request they stay home faced with a new virus cluster. "Even when we entered the store there were less than ten people," shopper Lia Gunawan told The Sydney Morning Herald after queueing up for the sales. Even as some European nations eye a post-Christmas return to harsh restrictions, China's communist leadership issued a statement hailing the "extremely extraordinary glory" of its handling of the virus that emerged in the country's Hubei province last year, state news agency Xinhua reported. Across the world, people are being urged to respect social distancing guidelines, as the World Health Organisation urged people not to "squander" the "great, heart-wrenching sacrifices" people had made to save lives. - New variant - The first French case of the new coronavirus variant was found in a citizen resident in Britain who arrived from London on December 19, the French health ministry said. They are asymptomatic and self-isolating at home in Tours in central France, and contact-tracing has taken place for the health professionals who treated him. The new strain of the virus, which experts fear is more contagious, prompted more than 50 countries to impose travel restrictions on the UK, where it first emerged. But cases of the new variant have still been reported worldwide: on Friday, Japan confirmed five infections in passengers from the UK, while cases have also been reported in Denmark, Lebanon, Germany, Australia and the Netherlands. South Africa has detected a similar mutation in some infected people, but on Friday denied British claims its strain was more infectious or dangerous than the one originating in the UK. The closure of the UK-France border for 48 hours led to a bottleneck of up to 10,000 lorries in southeast England, with drivers stranded for days over the festive period. But the head of the Calais port operator told AFP that after the port remained open over Christmas specially, the "situation should be completely taken care of" soon. - New restrictions - Some countries that loosened restrictions slightly for Christmas have re-imposed them -- Austria, for example, will see a curfew imposed from Saturday until 24 January. Millions in the United Kingdom have been affected by a tightening of restrictions there -- according to the BBC, more than 40% of England's population are now affected by the strictest measures -- which include the closure of all non-essential businesses and a limiting of social contacts. New lockdowns also started in Scotland and Northern Ireland on Saturday, and Wales has re-imposed restrictions too after relaxing them for Christmas. More than 25 million infections have been recorded in Europe, according to an AFP tally on Friday. - Vaccine hope - Vaccinations in all 27 European Union countries will begin on Sunday, after regulators approved the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine on 21 December. As vaccine rollout gets underway across the world, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned on Friday: "Vaccines are offering the world a way out of this tragedy. But it will take time for the whole world to be vaccinated." The pope's Christmas message also referenced the issue, with a plea for "vaccines for all". "I call on everyone, on leaders of states, on businesses, on international organisations, to promote cooperation and not competition, to find a solution for everyone... especially the most vulnerable and most in need in all regions of the planet," Pope Francis said.

EU begins vaccine rollout as new virus strain spreads

After 10 months of deadlock, Britain and the European Union on Thursday finally finalised the Brexit trade deal.

Both EU and UK expressed optimism on the deal as Britain ends its half a century partnership with the European association.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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Let's take a look at how other European countries reacted on the deal.&nbsp;

<h2>France&nbsp;</h2>

In a tweet, French President Emmanuel Macron said that "Europe's unity and firmness paid off". He also said that the deal will protect Europe's "citizens, fishermen and producers". &nbsp;

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L’unité et la fermeté européennes ont payé. L’accord avec le Royaume-Uni est essentiel pour protéger nos citoyens, nos pêcheurs, nos producteurs. Nous nous assurerons que c’est bien le cas. L’Europe avance et peut regarder vers l’avenir, unie, souveraine et forte.
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/1342137139354546182?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Germany</h2>

German Chancellor Angela Merkel expressed confidence that the agreement represents a "good outcome" that Germany would be able to back.

<h2>Spain</h2>

Spanish Prime Minister also welcomed the deal on Twitter but said that the UK and Spain should continue discussions on the status of Gibraltar.

<h2>Italy&nbsp;</h2>

"Good news: deal between the EU and the UK has been agreed," Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte wrote in a tweet, adding that the interests of Europeans have been "guaranteed".

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Good news: deal between the EU and the UK has been agreed. Interests and rights of European businesses and citizens guaranteed. The UK will be a central partner and ally for the EU and Italy.
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&nbsp;

"The UK will be a central partner and ally for the EU and Italy."

<h2>Northern Ireland&nbsp;</h2>

"This is the start of a new era in the relationship between the UK and the EU and in Northern Ireland we will want to maximise the opportunities the new arrangements provide for our local economy,” said First Minister Arlene Foster.

<h2>Scotland</h2>

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon clearly said that Brexit is happening against "Scotland's will" and said that it's time that the country charts its "own future as an independent European nation".

"Before the spin starts, it’s worth remembering that Brexit is happening against Scotland’s will. And there is no deal that will ever make up for what Brexit takes away from us. It’s time to chart our own future as an independent, European nation," said Sturgeon.&nbsp;

After 10 months of deadlock, Britain and the European Union on Thursday finally finalised the Brexit trade deal. Both EU and UK expressed optimism on the deal as Britain ends its half a century partnership with the European association.

After 10 months of deadlock, Britain and the European Union on Thursday finally finalised the Brexit trade deal. Both EU and UK expressed optimism on the deal as Britain ends its half a century partnership with the European association. Watch | Let's take a look at how other European countries reacted on the deal. France In a tweet, French President Emmanuel Macron said that "Europe's unity and firmness paid off". He also said that the deal will protect Europe's "citizens, fishermen and producers". L’unité et la fermeté européennes ont payé. L’accord avec le Royaume-Uni est essentiel pour protéger nos citoyens, nos pêcheurs, nos producteurs. Nous nous assurerons que c’est bien le cas. L’Europe avance et peut regarder vers l’avenir, unie, souveraine et forte. — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) December 24, 2020 × Germany German Chancellor Angela Merkel expressed confidence that the agreement represents a "good outcome" that Germany would be able to back. Spain Spanish Prime Minister also welcomed the deal on Twitter but said that the UK and Spain should continue discussions on the status of Gibraltar. Italy "Good news: deal between the EU and the UK has been agreed," Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte wrote in a tweet, adding that the interests of Europeans have been "guaranteed". Good news: deal between the EU and the UK has been agreed. Interests and rights of European businesses and citizens guaranteed. The UK will be a central partner and ally for the EU and Italy. — Giuseppe Conte (@GiuseppeConteIT) December 24, 2020 × "The UK will be a central partner and ally for the EU and Italy." Northern Ireland "This is the start of a new era in the relationship between the UK and the EU and in Northern Ireland we will want to maximise the opportunities the new arrangements provide for our local economy,” said First Minister Arlene Foster. Scotland Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon clearly said that Brexit is happening against "Scotland's will" and said that it's time that the country charts its "own future as an independent European nation". "Before the spin starts, it’s worth remembering that Brexit is happening against Scotland’s will. And there is no deal that will ever make up for what Brexit takes away from us. It’s time to chart our own future as an independent, European nation," said Sturgeon.

Scotland lone exception as European nations hail Brexit deal

LONDON — It took 11 grueling months for negotiators from Britain and the European Union to hammer out the terms of a post-Brexit trade deal. But in many respects, the deal is already 4 1/2 years out of date.

The world has changed radically since June 2016, when a narrow majority of people in Britain voted to leave the European Union, tempted by an argument that the country would prosper by throwing off the bureaucratic shackles of Brussels.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/it-was-worth-fighting-for-this-brexit-deal-says-eu-commission-chief-352201/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In those days, the vision of an agile, independent Britain — free to develop profitable, next-generation industries like artificial intelligence and cut its own trade deals with the United States, China and others — was an alluring sales pitch. The buccaneers of Brexit promised to create a “Global Britain.”

That was before the anti-immigrant and anti-globalist-fueled rise of President Donald Trump and other populist leaders who erected barriers to trade and immigration and countries turned inward. It was before the coronavirus pandemic exposed the vulnerabilities of far-flung supply chains, fueling calls to bring strategic industries back home and throwing globalism into retreat.

In the anxious dawn of 2021, buccaneers are out of fashion. The world is now dominated by three gargantuan economic blocs — the United States, China and the European Union. Britain has finalized its divorce from one of them, leaving it isolated at a time when the path forward seems more perilous than it once did.

“The whole ‘Global Britain’ model doesn’t reflect the more protectionist, nationalistic world we’re living in,” said Thomas Wright, the director of the Center on the United States and Europe at the Brookings Institution. “Becoming a global free trader in 2016 is a bit like turning into a communist in 1989. It's bad timing.”

As Prime Minister Boris Johnson leads Britain into a post-Brexit future, he also risks being out of step politically.

The Brexit agreement with the European Union comes at the very moment that President-elect Joe Biden is replacing Trump’s “America First” credo with a message of mending alliances and collaborating to tackle issues like global health and climate change.

While the deal averts tariffs and quotas on goods crossing the English Channel, it is at heart about disentangling neighbors who had become deeply integrated over four decades. That estrangement, analysts say, is bound to weaken ties between the two sides in other areas, like security and diplomacy.

“Biden wants to see alliances and multilateralism and cooperation, and Brexit runs completely against that,” said Mujtaba Rahman, an analyst at the Eurasia Group, a political risk consultancy. “Brexit is graduating into a more difficult political context where it is running against the grain.”

Trump cheered Britain’s drive to sever itself from the European Union. As a reward, he promised to negotiate a trade agreement with Johnson, whom he cultivated personally. But Biden opposed Brexit and has ruled out negotiating new trade agreements until the United States improves its own competitive position. That nullifies one of the prime selling points of Brexit.

Johnson has pivoted by highlighting other ways that Britain can work with the United States. It is increasing military spending to reinforce NATO and playing host at a U.N. climate summit next year, which will give Biden a platform to reengage the United States in the climate challenge.

Britain has also promoted itself as a champion of democratic values in places like Hong Kong, standing alongside the United States. But in a less hospitable world, it may not find many allies for that kind of work.

“Who are the obvious partners for them?” Wright said. “Four years ago, they could have said Brazil, but Brazil is now run by Bolsonaro,” he added, referring to the populist president, Jair Bolsonaro.

There are also limits to how muscular a partner Britain can be in the confrontation with autocratic states like China and Russia. Its changing relationship with China illustrates its diminished stature.

Britain once hoped its free-agent status would allow it to develop a thriving commercial relationship with Beijing, unencumbered by the baggage of the European Union or the United States. But under pressure from Trump on the role of Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei in 5G networks, Britain has largely abandoned its cultivation of China, falling in line with the United States’ more antagonistic position.

The European Union, by contrast, has continued to negotiate a landmark investment treaty with China, a goal of the Germans, who want greater control over the Chinese operations of their companies. Last-minute objections raised by aides to Biden are giving the Europeans second thoughts, but Germany’s drive to finish the deal before the end of the year attests to its more confident position.

In 2016, Brexit was embraced by three distinct factions in British politics, said Matthias Matthijs, a professor of international political economy at Johns Hopkins University: right-wing anti-immigration figures like Nigel Farage; orthodox free traders in the Conservative Party; and some on the left, who hoped the move would free up money to subsidize factory jobs in the country’s industrial north and, in any event, regarded the European Union as a bankers’ club that Britain was well out of.

“It’s not clear that signing this EU trade deal will give them more freedom to do that,” Matthijs said of the subsidies, noting that Britain had agreed to abide by constraints on how much state aid it can dole out to industry.

The paradox, he said, is that Britain is casting off from the European Union at a time when its two largest economies, Germany and France, are embracing some of the tenets of industrial policy that inspired Brexit.

The pandemic has forced Brussels to reconsider policies it once shunned — initially in the form of a $913 billion coronavirus rescue package — that bring it closer to the ideas pushed by Brexiteers, like Johnson’s former chief adviser, Dominic Cummings. He was an architect of a plan to use public money to “level up” Britain’s economically disadvantaged north with its more prosperous south.

Liberating itself from the constraints of Brussels had been one of the biggest attractions of Brexit. Instead, Britain faces a much larger competitor that seems bent, like Britain itself, on transforming its economies with digital and “green” technology — and more open to using state aid to do so.

Another irony of Brexit is that Europe, alienated by the unilateral policies of Trump, has begun echoing some of the language used by Brexiteers in 2016. President Emmanuel Macron of France and others have spoken of the need for “European sovereignty” in the face of a less reliable United States. Johnson made reclaiming British sovereignty the leitmotif of his negotiations with Brussels.

Britain still has indisputable advantages as it charts a new course. Despite being devastated by the pandemic, its economy is flexible and resilient, at least relative to those on the European continent. It was the first Western country to approve a virus vaccine, while the European Union has been bogged down by the need for its members to move together.

Matthijs predicted that Britain’s economy would snap back faster after the pandemic than those of Germany or France, which he said the Brexiteers would attribute to the freedom gained by shaking loose of Brussels.

Britain’s independence also affords it the chance to be experimental in its relations with other countries. Wright, for example, said the Biden administration might be interested in negotiating a different kind of economic understanding with Britain than an old-fashioned free trade agreement.

“They’re well positioned to be the guinea pig for this,” he said.

Britain, after all, just negotiated a deal unique in the annals of trade diplomacy — one that separates, rather than brings together, partners. Its ability to get that done, analysts said, is a hopeful sign for its ability to reshape itself yet again.

Nevertheless, “the world of June 2016 is not the world of today,” Wright said. “They know that as well, deep down.”

LONDON — It took 11 grueling months for negotiators from Britain and the European Union to hammer out the terms of a post-Brexit trade deal. But in many respects, the deal is already 4 1/2 years out of date.

LONDON — It took 11 grueling months for negotiators from Britain and the European Union to hammer out the terms of a post-Brexit trade deal. But in many respects, the deal is already 4 1/2 years out of date. The world has changed radically since June 2016, when a narrow majority of people in Britain voted to leave the European Union, tempted by an argument that the country would prosper by throwing off the bureaucratic shackles of Brussels. Watch | In those days, the vision of an agile, independent Britain — free to develop profitable, next-generation industries like artificial intelligence and cut its own trade deals with the United States, China and others — was an alluring sales pitch. The buccaneers of Brexit promised to create a “Global Britain.” That was before the anti-immigrant and anti-globalist-fueled rise of President Donald Trump and other populist leaders who erected barriers to trade and immigration and countries turned inward. It was before the coronavirus pandemic exposed the vulnerabilities of far-flung supply chains, fueling calls to bring strategic industries back home and throwing globalism into retreat. In the anxious dawn of 2021, buccaneers are out of fashion. The world is now dominated by three gargantuan economic blocs — the United States, China and the European Union. Britain has finalized its divorce from one of them, leaving it isolated at a time when the path forward seems more perilous than it once did. “The whole ‘Global Britain’ model doesn’t reflect the more protectionist, nationalistic world we’re living in,” said Thomas Wright, the director of the Center on the United States and Europe at the Brookings Institution. “Becoming a global free trader in 2016 is a bit like turning into a communist in 1989. It's bad timing.” As Prime Minister Boris Johnson leads Britain into a post-Brexit future, he also risks being out of step politically. The Brexit agreement with the European Union comes at the very moment that President-elect Joe Biden is replacing Trump’s “America First” credo with a message of mending alliances and collaborating to tackle issues like global health and climate change. While the deal averts tariffs and quotas on goods crossing the English Channel, it is at heart about disentangling neighbors who had become deeply integrated over four decades. That estrangement, analysts say, is bound to weaken ties between the two sides in other areas, like security and diplomacy. “Biden wants to see alliances and multilateralism and cooperation, and Brexit runs completely against that,” said Mujtaba Rahman, an analyst at the Eurasia Group, a political risk consultancy. “Brexit is graduating into a more difficult political context where it is running against the grain.” Trump cheered Britain’s drive to sever itself from the European Union. As a reward, he promised to negotiate a trade agreement with Johnson, whom he cultivated personally. But Biden opposed Brexit and has ruled out negotiating new trade agreements until the United States improves its own competitive position. That nullifies one of the prime selling points of Brexit. Johnson has pivoted by highlighting other ways that Britain can work with the United States. It is increasing military spending to reinforce NATO and playing host at a U.N. climate summit next year, which will give Biden a platform to reengage the United States in the climate challenge. Britain has also promoted itself as a champion of democratic values in places like Hong Kong, standing alongside the United States. But in a less hospitable world, it may not find many allies for that kind of work. “Who are the obvious partners for them?” Wright said. “Four years ago, they could have said Brazil, but Brazil is now run by Bolsonaro,” he added, referring to the populist president, Jair Bolsonaro. There are also limits to how muscular a partner Britain can be in the confrontation with autocratic states like China and Russia. Its changing relationship with China illustrates its diminished stature. Britain once hoped its free-agent status would allow it to develop a thriving commercial relationship with Beijing, unencumbered by the baggage of the European Union or the United States. But under pressure from Trump on the role of Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei in 5G networks, Britain has largely abandoned its cultivation of China, falling in line with the United States’ more antagonistic position. The European Union, by contrast, has continued to negotiate a landmark investment treaty with China, a goal of the Germans, who want greater control over the Chinese operations of their companies. Last-minute objections raised by aides to Biden are giving the Europeans second thoughts, but Germany’s drive to finish the deal before the end of the year attests to its more confident position. In 2016, Brexit was embraced by three distinct factions in British politics, said Matthias Matthijs, a professor of international political economy at Johns Hopkins University: right-wing anti-immigration figures like Nigel Farage; orthodox free traders in the Conservative Party; and some on the left, who hoped the move would free up money to subsidize factory jobs in the country’s industrial north and, in any event, regarded the European Union as a bankers’ club that Britain was well out of. “It’s not clear that signing this EU trade deal will give them more freedom to do that,” Matthijs said of the subsidies, noting that Britain had agreed to abide by constraints on how much state aid it can dole out to industry. The paradox, he said, is that Britain is casting off from the European Union at a time when its two largest economies, Germany and France, are embracing some of the tenets of industrial policy that inspired Brexit. The pandemic has forced Brussels to reconsider policies it once shunned — initially in the form of a $913 billion coronavirus rescue package — that bring it closer to the ideas pushed by Brexiteers, like Johnson’s former chief adviser, Dominic Cummings. He was an architect of a plan to use public money to “level up” Britain’s economically disadvantaged north with its more prosperous south. Liberating itself from the constraints of Brussels had been one of the biggest attractions of Brexit. Instead, Britain faces a much larger competitor that seems bent, like Britain itself, on transforming its economies with digital and “green” technology — and more open to using state aid to do so. Another irony of Brexit is that Europe, alienated by the unilateral policies of Trump, has begun echoing some of the language used by Brexiteers in 2016. President Emmanuel Macron of France and others have spoken of the need for “European sovereignty” in the face of a less reliable United States. Johnson made reclaiming British sovereignty the leitmotif of his negotiations with Brussels. Britain still has indisputable advantages as it charts a new course. Despite being devastated by the pandemic, its economy is flexible and resilient, at least relative to those on the European continent. It was the first Western country to approve a virus vaccine, while the European Union has been bogged down by the need for its members to move together. Matthijs predicted that Britain’s economy would snap back faster after the pandemic than those of Germany or France, which he said the Brexiteers would attribute to the freedom gained by shaking loose of Brussels. Britain’s independence also affords it the chance to be experimental in its relations with other countries. Wright, for example, said the Biden administration might be interested in negotiating a different kind of economic understanding with Britain than an old-fashioned free trade agreement. “They’re well positioned to be the guinea pig for this,” he said. Britain, after all, just negotiated a deal unique in the annals of trade diplomacy — one that separates, rather than brings together, partners. Its ability to get that done, analysts said, is a hopeful sign for its ability to reshape itself yet again. Nevertheless, “the world of June 2016 is not the world of today,” Wright said. “They know that as well, deep down.”

Brexit is finally done, but it already seems out of date

The European Union and Britain chalked out the final details of a post-Brexit trade deal on Thursday ahead of what negotiators hoped would be a pre-dawn breakthrough.

The two sides are now expected to announce a Christmas Eve trade deal Thursday after ten months of Brexit talks dragged out over yet another late night session.

According to the front pages of several British newspapers, Prime Minister Boris Johnson had emerged victorious in the quest for a pact. In Brussels, however, work continued.

An EU source told AFP that "if all goes well" the two leaders should talk by phone at 0700 GMT to seal the agreement.

While a last-minute deal would avoid the most acrimonious ending to the Brexit divorce, the United Kingdom is heading for a much more distant relationship with its biggest trade partner than almost anyone expected at the time of the 2016 Brexit vote.

Sources in London and Brussels said a deal was close as British Prime Minister Boris Johnson held a late-night conference call with his Cabinet of senior ministers, and negotiators in Brussels pored over reams of legal trade texts.

But the leaders were not able to announce a deal before Christmas Eve arrived, as they had hoped.&nbsp;

"Brexit work will continue throughout the night," European Commission spokesman Eric Mamer tweeted just after 1.00 am (0000 GMT).

"Grabbing some sleep is recommended to all Brexit-watchers at this point. It will hopefully be an early start tomorrow morning."

"It will hopefully be an early start tomorrow morning," European Commission spokesman Eric Mamer tweeted just after midnight, advising reporters and diplomats alike to grab some sleep as the finishing touches were applied.

Several hours earlier, European officials had confidently told journalists: "We are in the final phase."

There was no official confirmation of a deal but a news conference was expected in London on Thursday morning - just seven days before the UK turns its back on the EU's single market and customs union at 2300 GMT on December 31.

A French government source said UK negotiators had made "huge concessions" on fisheries -- the key sticking point as the clock ticks down to Britain's departure.&nbsp;

The last-gasp deal, if it is reached, would come just days before Britain is set to leave the EU's single market at the end of the year, sparing the two sides from trade tariffs.

The United Kingdom formally left the EU on January 31 but has since been in a transition period under which rules on trade, travel and business remained unchanged. But from the end of this year, it will be treated by Brussels as a third country.

If they have struck a zero-tariff and zero-quota deal, it would safeguard nearly $1 trillion in annual trade, and support the peace in Northern Ireland - a priority for US President-elect Joe Biden, who had warned Johnson that he must uphold the 1998 Good Friday peace agreement.

Even with an accord, some disruption is certain from January 1 when Britain ends its often fraught 48-year relationship with a Franco-German-led project that sought to bind the ruined nations of post-World War Two Europe together as a global power.

The focus in talks had shifted since Monday to cross-Channel calls between Johnson and von der Leyen after exhausted officials failed to close the gap on how to share access to UK fishing waters.

The remaining differences between the two camps were narrow but deep, in particular over fishing, with EU crews facing a dramatic cut in their catch from British waters.

Failure to reach a deal would mean tariffs on cross-Channel trade in food and goods, exacerbating the economic shock of a return to a customs border after 47 years of integration.

The last-gasp deal, if it is confirmed, would come just days before Britain is set to leave the EU's single market at the end of the year, sparing the two sides from trade tariffs.

A deal -- which would still need to be translated and tidied up by lawyers -- could be approved provisionally before the cut-off date and then scrutinised by EU lawmakers in the new year to avoid a cliff-edge.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

The European Union and Britain chalked out the final details of a post-Brexit trade deal on Thursday ahead of what negotiators hoped would be a pre-dawn breakthrough.

The European Union and Britain chalked out the final details of a post-Brexit trade deal on Thursday ahead of what negotiators hoped would be a pre-dawn breakthrough. The two sides are now expected to announce a Christmas Eve trade deal Thursday after ten months of Brexit talks dragged out over yet another late night session. According to the front pages of several British newspapers, Prime Minister Boris Johnson had emerged victorious in the quest for a pact. In Brussels, however, work continued. An EU source told AFP that "if all goes well" the two leaders should talk by phone at 0700 GMT to seal the agreement. While a last-minute deal would avoid the most acrimonious ending to the Brexit divorce, the United Kingdom is heading for a much more distant relationship with its biggest trade partner than almost anyone expected at the time of the 2016 Brexit vote. Sources in London and Brussels said a deal was close as British Prime Minister Boris Johnson held a late-night conference call with his Cabinet of senior ministers, and negotiators in Brussels pored over reams of legal trade texts. But the leaders were not able to announce a deal before Christmas Eve arrived, as they had hoped. "Brexit work will continue throughout the night," European Commission spokesman Eric Mamer tweeted just after 1.00 am (0000 GMT). "Grabbing some sleep is recommended to all Brexit-watchers at this point. It will hopefully be an early start tomorrow morning." "It will hopefully be an early start tomorrow morning," European Commission spokesman Eric Mamer tweeted just after midnight, advising reporters and diplomats alike to grab some sleep as the finishing touches were applied. Several hours earlier, European officials had confidently told journalists: "We are in the final phase." There was no official confirmation of a deal but a news conference was expected in London on Thursday morning - just seven days before the UK turns its back on the EU's single market and customs union at 2300 GMT on December 31. A French government source said UK negotiators had made "huge concessions" on fisheries -- the key sticking point as the clock ticks down to Britain's departure. The last-gasp deal, if it is reached, would come just days before Britain is set to leave the EU's single market at the end of the year, sparing the two sides from trade tariffs. The United Kingdom formally left the EU on January 31 but has since been in a transition period under which rules on trade, travel and business remained unchanged. But from the end of this year, it will be treated by Brussels as a third country. If they have struck a zero-tariff and zero-quota deal, it would safeguard nearly $1 trillion in annual trade, and support the peace in Northern Ireland - a priority for US President-elect Joe Biden, who had warned Johnson that he must uphold the 1998 Good Friday peace agreement. Even with an accord, some disruption is certain from January 1 when Britain ends its often fraught 48-year relationship with a Franco-German-led project that sought to bind the ruined nations of post-World War Two Europe together as a global power. The focus in talks had shifted since Monday to cross-Channel calls between Johnson and von der Leyen after exhausted officials failed to close the gap on how to share access to UK fishing waters. The remaining differences between the two camps were narrow but deep, in particular over fishing, with EU crews facing a dramatic cut in their catch from British waters. Failure to reach a deal would mean tariffs on cross-Channel trade in food and goods, exacerbating the economic shock of a return to a customs border after 47 years of integration. The last-gasp deal, if it is confirmed, would come just days before Britain is set to leave the EU's single market at the end of the year, sparing the two sides from trade tariffs. A deal -- which would still need to be translated and tidied up by lawyers -- could be approved provisionally before the cut-off date and then scrutinised by EU lawmakers in the new year to avoid a cliff-edge. (with inputs from agencies)

A pre-dawn breakthrough? EU and UK poised to announce Brexit trade deal

After harsh criticism and penalties from the European Union towards the Russian government, over the alleged poisoning of the opposition leader&nbsp;Alexei Navalny, Russia has decided to impose travel bans on several EU representatives.

Kremlin has "decided to&nbsp;expand the list of representatives of EU member states and institutions who will be denied entry to the Russian Federation," Russia foreign ministry said.

The sanctions have come in after the Russian government summoned several senior diplomats from three countries of the European Union. These countries are the ones that supported the claims of Navalny being poisoned with Novichok by Kremlin in August.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/alexei-navalny-fsb-spy-admits-putting-poison-in-underwear-351485">WATCH|</a>

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Three countries named by Kremlin in this ban are Germany, France and Sweden, whose representatives were summoned by the Russian government in "connection with the introduction of EU anti-Russian sanctions".

This statement by the Russian authorities has come a day after Navalny claimed of tricking a Russian agent into admitting that the&nbsp;Federal Security Service (FSB) did in fact try to poison him by placing the poison in his underwear. However, these claims by Navalny were rubbished by the FSB officials who called these allegations as "fake" and on the other hand alleged him of taking&nbsp;foreign intelligence services' aid to make these allegations against Kremlin.

On Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said also labelled Navalny to be a "sick" man who has "delusions of persecution" and said he exhibits "traits of megalomania".

The Kremlin also took a hit at the opposition leader and said he suffers from&nbsp;psychological complexes surrounding authority and power.

After harsh criticism and penalties from the European Union towards the Russian government, over the alleged poisoning of the opposition leader Alexei Navalny, Russia has decided to impose travel bans on several EU representatives.

After harsh criticism and penalties from the European Union towards the Russian government, over the alleged poisoning of the opposition leader Alexei Navalny, Russia has decided to impose travel bans on several EU representatives. Kremlin has "decided to expand the list of representatives of EU member states and institutions who will be denied entry to the Russian Federation," Russia foreign ministry said. The sanctions have come in after the Russian government summoned several senior diplomats from three countries of the European Union. These countries are the ones that supported the claims of Navalny being poisoned with Novichok by Kremlin in August. WATCH| × Three countries named by Kremlin in this ban are Germany, France and Sweden, whose representatives were summoned by the Russian government in "connection with the introduction of EU anti-Russian sanctions". This statement by the Russian authorities has come a day after Navalny claimed of tricking a Russian agent into admitting that the Federal Security Service (FSB) did in fact try to poison him by placing the poison in his underwear. However, these claims by Navalny were rubbished by the FSB officials who called these allegations as "fake" and on the other hand alleged him of taking foreign intelligence services' aid to make these allegations against Kremlin. On Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said also labelled Navalny to be a "sick" man who has "delusions of persecution" and said he exhibits "traits of megalomania". The Kremlin also took a hit at the opposition leader and said he suffers from psychological complexes surrounding authority and power.

Russia imposes travel ban on EU representatives over Navalny controversy

Fearing a trade deal between Britain and the European Union might be elusive, Snag Tights, a Scottish newcomer in the hosiery business, set up a hub in Europe this year to avoid potential tariffs, bringing 30 jobs to the Dutch town of Venlo.

Dutch town attracts Scottish tights maker amid Brexit doubt

British member of Parliament have issued a warning saying the country is not ready yet for Brexit. In a report a group of British MPs have warned that Britain has not yet install all the complex IT systems and the port infrastructure required to insure Brexit runs smoothly. The group also said that they were concerned about the overall state of readiness.

British MPs issues Brexit warning

Britain and the European Union continued trade talks in Brussels on Saturday. But this time, they did not give any word on any progress made in resolving disagreements over fishing rights and fair competition rules -- seen as the main obstacles to a deal.

Talks continued at the expert level on Saturday in Brussels -- with less than two weeks to go before Britain finally leaves the bloc's orbit on December 31.

The two sides, meanwhile, are under pressure to agree on a new relationship to safeguard almost a trillion dollars worth of trade from tariffs and quotas.

European Parliament on Saturday repeated its call for a deal to be reached no later than this weekend, to give it time to properly ratify the agreement.

Britain reiterated on Saturday that it would prefer to leave the European Union with no trade deal rather than compromise its independence while there was no word from Brussels.

"We need to get any deal right and based on terms which respect what the British people voted for," said a UK government source.

"Unfortunately, the EU are still struggling to get the flexibility needed from member states and are continuing to make demands that are incompatible with our independence."

Since Britain left the EU in January, the talks have been largely hamstrung over two issues - the bloc's fishing rights in British waters and creating a so-called level playing field providing fair competition rules for both sides.

There is little time left. Both sides need to get any deal approved by their parliaments, and with the talks in their final stages, it is expected that any conclusion will most likely come before Christmas.

David McAllister, head of the parliament's Brexit group, said the chamber could hold an emergency plenary on December 29 if a deal was struck no later than this weekend.

"This requires that on Sunday evening at the latest we get a text, in order to start our prepared measures and work," he told German broadcaster NDR.

The EU has long said it wants to safeguard the parliament's right to exercise democratic oversight by voting on any deal sealed by the EU and UK negotiators.

However, if a deal arrived later than this weekend, the 27 EU member states could still endorse it on their own to allow for "provisional application", a scenario that would be likely to upset European lawmakers.

EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier had said on Friday that "just a few hours" remained to reach a post-Brexit trade deal. He cited "extremely difficult" negotiations over how the EU could retaliate if Britain backpedalled on production standards to win a competitive edge for its products, or if Britain cut European fishermen off from its fishing waters in the future.

Britain and the European Union continued trade talks in Brussels on Saturday. But this time, they did not give any word on any progress made in resolving disagreements over fishing rights and fair competition rules -- seen as the main obstacles to a deal.

Britain and the European Union continued trade talks in Brussels on Saturday. But this time, they did not give any word on any progress made in resolving disagreements over fishing rights and fair competition rules -- seen as the main obstacles to a deal. Talks continued at the expert level on Saturday in Brussels -- with less than two weeks to go before Britain finally leaves the bloc's orbit on December 31. The two sides, meanwhile, are under pressure to agree on a new relationship to safeguard almost a trillion dollars worth of trade from tariffs and quotas. European Parliament on Saturday repeated its call for a deal to be reached no later than this weekend, to give it time to properly ratify the agreement. Britain reiterated on Saturday that it would prefer to leave the European Union with no trade deal rather than compromise its independence while there was no word from Brussels. "We need to get any deal right and based on terms which respect what the British people voted for," said a UK government source. "Unfortunately, the EU are still struggling to get the flexibility needed from member states and are continuing to make demands that are incompatible with our independence." Since Britain left the EU in January, the talks have been largely hamstrung over two issues - the bloc's fishing rights in British waters and creating a so-called level playing field providing fair competition rules for both sides. There is little time left. Both sides need to get any deal approved by their parliaments, and with the talks in their final stages, it is expected that any conclusion will most likely come before Christmas. David McAllister, head of the parliament's Brexit group, said the chamber could hold an emergency plenary on December 29 if a deal was struck no later than this weekend. "This requires that on Sunday evening at the latest we get a text, in order to start our prepared measures and work," he told German broadcaster NDR. The EU has long said it wants to safeguard the parliament's right to exercise democratic oversight by voting on any deal sealed by the EU and UK negotiators. However, if a deal arrived later than this weekend, the 27 EU member states could still endorse it on their own to allow for "provisional application", a scenario that would be likely to upset European lawmakers. EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier had said on Friday that "just a few hours" remained to reach a post-Brexit trade deal. He cited "extremely difficult" negotiations over how the EU could retaliate if Britain backpedalled on production standards to win a competitive edge for its products, or if Britain cut European fishermen off from its fishing waters in the future.

EU, UK continue post-Brexit trade talks as deadline looms

Northern Ireland will be subject to unique arrangements on tax, borders and trade when the Brexit transition period ends on December 31.

London and Brussels agreed on the plan -- separate to the talks on a post-Brexit trade deal -- to prevent a hard border between the province and EU member Ireland. The frontier became a flashpoint during more than two decades of violence over British rule of Northern Ireland.

Here is what will change:

- Border rules -

Under the special arrangements, Northern Ireland will align with the EU's single market regulations and the customs union.

This means from January 1 goods arriving in Northern Ireland from mainland Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) will be travelling within the UK while in effect crossing the EU-UK border.

A pact between Brussels and London aims to minimise port checks and disruption on goods bound for Northern Ireland as their final destination.

But freight scheduled to travel onwards to Ireland or any other EU member will be subject to the same controls as all UK-EU trade, with checks taking place at Northern Irish ports and airports.

- Food checks -&nbsp;

Under the "Northern Ireland protocol", agricultural foods arriving in Northern Ireland from mainland Britain will require new paperwork and checks starting in 2021.

London and Brussels recently agreed a "grace period" until April 1 for supermarkets and suppliers to prevent disruption to food stocks, as officials warned port will not be ready to handle the checks.

- Tariffs -

The deal to minimise disruption on freight bound for Northern Ireland from mainland Britain means most goods will not face tariffs.

However, businesses will need to register for a "trusted trader&nbsp;scheme", declaring that Northern Ireland is its final destination.

"The scheme will be open only to businesses established in Northern Ireland, or businesses who meet certain closely linked criteria," the UK government said.

- Value-added tax -

EU value-added tax (VAT) law will continue to apply in Northern Ireland.

The British government has said it will apply "on goods moving to, from and within Northern Ireland".

However, the province will remain part of the UK's VAT system, which firms will use to reclaim tax on trade with EU companies.

- NI-EU trade -

While Northern Ireland will remain a part of the United Kingdom, it will be able to continue unfettered trade with the Republic of Ireland and other EU member states from January 1.

This will remain true whether or not Britain and the EU seal a wider deal on their future trading relationship.

Some have suggested it may give business in the province an edge over mainland British counterparts.

Northern Ireland will be subject to unique arrangements on tax, borders and trade when the Brexit transition period ends on December 31. London and Brussels agreed on the plan -- separate to the talks on a post-Brexit trade deal -- to prevent a hard border between the province and EU member Ireland.

Northern Ireland will be subject to unique arrangements on tax, borders and trade when the Brexit transition period ends on December 31. London and Brussels agreed on the plan -- separate to the talks on a post-Brexit trade deal -- to prevent a hard border between the province and EU member Ireland. The frontier became a flashpoint during more than two decades of violence over British rule of Northern Ireland. Here is what will change: - Border rules - Under the special arrangements, Northern Ireland will align with the EU's single market regulations and the customs union. This means from January 1 goods arriving in Northern Ireland from mainland Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) will be travelling within the UK while in effect crossing the EU-UK border. A pact between Brussels and London aims to minimise port checks and disruption on goods bound for Northern Ireland as their final destination. But freight scheduled to travel onwards to Ireland or any other EU member will be subject to the same controls as all UK-EU trade, with checks taking place at Northern Irish ports and airports. - Food checks - Under the "Northern Ireland protocol", agricultural foods arriving in Northern Ireland from mainland Britain will require new paperwork and checks starting in 2021. London and Brussels recently agreed a "grace period" until April 1 for supermarkets and suppliers to prevent disruption to food stocks, as officials warned port will not be ready to handle the checks. - Tariffs - The deal to minimise disruption on freight bound for Northern Ireland from mainland Britain means most goods will not face tariffs. However, businesses will need to register for a "trusted trader scheme", declaring that Northern Ireland is its final destination. "The scheme will be open only to businesses established in Northern Ireland, or businesses who meet certain closely linked criteria," the UK government said. - Value-added tax - EU value-added tax (VAT) law will continue to apply in Northern Ireland. The British government has said it will apply "on goods moving to, from and within Northern Ireland". However, the province will remain part of the UK's VAT system, which firms will use to reclaim tax on trade with EU companies. - NI-EU trade - While Northern Ireland will remain a part of the United Kingdom, it will be able to continue unfettered trade with the Republic of Ireland and other EU member states from January 1. This will remain true whether or not Britain and the EU seal a wider deal on their future trading relationship. Some have suggested it may give business in the province an edge over mainland British counterparts.

How Northern Ireland changes when Brexit transition ends

The European Union said on Friday there were just hours left to strike a Brexit trade deal with the UK as the two sides race to prevent a turbulent finale to the crisis at the end of the month.

Britain, on its part, called on the bloc to see "sense". Several hours after EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier told London that there were just hours left to navigate a "very narrow" path towards a deal, Johnson said the British door was open but that the EU should see sense and compromise.

According to Reuters, talks were due to continue on Saturday.

Both London and Brussels are demanding the other compromise amid a flurry of often conflicting messages that say, variously, a deal is possible, a deal is in serious trouble or that a deal is imminent.

"It's the moment of truth," Barnier had earlier told the European Parliament in Brussels.&nbsp;

"There is a chance of getting an agreement but the path to such an agreement is very narrow."

Johnson said Britain would keep talking but that he would not compromise on taking back control of its laws and its fishing waters - which he sees as the fundamental point of leaving the EU.

"Our door is open, we'll keep talking but I have to say things are looking difficult," Johnson told reporters. "We hope that our EU friends will see sense and come to the table with something themselves - because that's really where we are."

Britain formally left the EU on January 31 after its 2016 referendum but since then, it has been in a transition period under which rules on trade, travel and business remain unchanged. That period ends on December 31.

An accord would ensure that the goods trade which makes up half of annual EU-UK commerce, worth nearly a trillion dollars in all, would remain free of tariffs and quotas.

Britain says the talks are stuck on two issues - the so-called level playing field and fishing - and has repeatedly said the EU has to budge or there will be no deal.

"We have very little time remaining, just a few hours to work through these negotiations in a useful fashion if we want this agreement to enter into force on the first of January," Barnier said.

While Barnier said the sides were striving for an agreement, he said the 27-nation bloc would not sign a deal that undercut its cherished single market of 450 million consumers.

Johnson, the face of the 2016 Brexit campaign, will ultimately have to decide whether to accept the narrow deal on offer from the EU or risk the economic chaos - and applause from hardline Brexiteers - that walking away would trigger. 
&nbsp;

The European Union said on Friday there were just hours left to strike a Brexit trade deal with the UK as the two sides race to prevent a turbulent finale to the crisis at the end of the month.

The European Union said on Friday there were just hours left to strike a Brexit trade deal with the UK as the two sides race to prevent a turbulent finale to the crisis at the end of the month. Britain, on its part, called on the bloc to see "sense". Several hours after EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier told London that there were just hours left to navigate a "very narrow" path towards a deal, Johnson said the British door was open but that the EU should see sense and compromise. According to Reuters, talks were due to continue on Saturday. Both London and Brussels are demanding the other compromise amid a flurry of often conflicting messages that say, variously, a deal is possible, a deal is in serious trouble or that a deal is imminent. "It's the moment of truth," Barnier had earlier told the European Parliament in Brussels. "There is a chance of getting an agreement but the path to such an agreement is very narrow." Johnson said Britain would keep talking but that he would not compromise on taking back control of its laws and its fishing waters - which he sees as the fundamental point of leaving the EU. "Our door is open, we'll keep talking but I have to say things are looking difficult," Johnson told reporters. "We hope that our EU friends will see sense and come to the table with something themselves - because that's really where we are." Britain formally left the EU on January 31 after its 2016 referendum but since then, it has been in a transition period under which rules on trade, travel and business remain unchanged. That period ends on December 31. An accord would ensure that the goods trade which makes up half of annual EU-UK commerce, worth nearly a trillion dollars in all, would remain free of tariffs and quotas. Britain says the talks are stuck on two issues - the so-called level playing field and fishing - and has repeatedly said the EU has to budge or there will be no deal. "We have very little time remaining, just a few hours to work through these negotiations in a useful fashion if we want this agreement to enter into force on the first of January," Barnier said. While Barnier said the sides were striving for an agreement, he said the 27-nation bloc would not sign a deal that undercut its cherished single market of 450 million consumers. Johnson, the face of the 2016 Brexit campaign, will ultimately have to decide whether to accept the narrow deal on offer from the EU or risk the economic chaos - and applause from hardline Brexiteers - that walking away would trigger.

EU says hours left for a post-Brexit trade deal

Chief EU negotiator Michel Barnier has said that post-Brexit trade talks were on, and that only a few hours were left to reach an agreement with Britain.

"It's the moment of truth," Barnier told the European Parliament.

"We have very little time remaining, just a few hours to work through these negotiations... if you want this agreement to enter into force on January 1."

Barnier, who headed into last-ditch talks with his UK counterpart David Frost immediately after meeting MEPs, said fisheries remain the main sticking point.&nbsp;British companies trading in other areas would "remain stable in their rights", he said, but EU fishing crews would lose out on guaranteed access.&nbsp;

Late on Thursday, Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson and EU chief Ursula von der Leyen held a call that failed to break the logjam in trade talks.

"I think I've always been frank with you, and open and sincere. I cannot say what will come up during this last home straight of the negotiations. We have to be prepared for all eventualities," Barnier told the MEPs.

Britain left the European Union on January 31 and will leave the EU single market on December 31 at midnight, with or without a follow-on accord.

Without a trade deal, cross-Channel trade will be conducted on basic WTO rules and 47 years of economic integration will be disrupted by tariffs on goods.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

Chief EU negotiator Michel Barnier has said that post-Brexit trade talks were on, and that only a few hours were left to reach an agreement with Britain. "It's the moment of truth," Barnier told the European Parliament.

Chief EU negotiator Michel Barnier has said that post-Brexit trade talks were on, and that only a few hours were left to reach an agreement with Britain. "It's the moment of truth," Barnier told the European Parliament. "We have very little time remaining, just a few hours to work through these negotiations... if you want this agreement to enter into force on January 1." Barnier, who headed into last-ditch talks with his UK counterpart David Frost immediately after meeting MEPs, said fisheries remain the main sticking point. British companies trading in other areas would "remain stable in their rights", he said, but EU fishing crews would lose out on guaranteed access. Late on Thursday, Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson and EU chief Ursula von der Leyen held a call that failed to break the logjam in trade talks. "I think I've always been frank with you, and open and sincere. I cannot say what will come up during this last home straight of the negotiations. We have to be prepared for all eventualities," Barnier told the MEPs. Britain left the European Union on January 31 and will leave the EU single market on December 31 at midnight, with or without a follow-on accord. Without a trade deal, cross-Channel trade will be conducted on basic WTO rules and 47 years of economic integration will be disrupted by tariffs on goods. (with inputs from agencies)

Chief EU negotiator Barnier says just hours left for Brexit talks

British pet owners will need a new document to enter the European Union with their animals after the Brexit transition period ends on 1 January next year, the government said on Wednesday. Owners will have to get an animal health certificate from a vet no earlier than 10 days before travel, the government said on its Brexit guidance page.

British pets required only a passport while their country was part of the EU. Only vets officially allowed to inspect animals for export can issue the certificates.&nbsp;

The same rule will apply for taking animals from England, Scotland and Wales to Northern Ireland. But the UK government said its approach to enforcing the rule in Northern Ireland would recognise "these changes will take time to adjust to", without specifying whether there would be a grace period.&nbsp;

Owners will still have to ensure pets are microchipped and have up-to-date rabies vaccinations, as currently. The health certificates will be valid for pets' onward travel for four months. There will be no new rules on pets travelling from the EU into Britain, which will continue to recognise EU pet passports.&nbsp;

The new rules are less complex than if the EU had classified Britain as an "unlisted" country -- the least favourable status. &nbsp;This would have involved animals getting a blood test to check for rabies at least three months ahead of travel.&nbsp;

Britain has instead been given the same status for pet travel as Australia, Russia and the United States. The UK government is pushing to get Part 1 listed status, which would allow pets to travel almost as they do now. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

British pet owners will need a new document to enter the European Union with their animals after the Brexit transition period ends on 1 January next year, the government said on Wednesday.

British pet owners will need a new document to enter the European Union with their animals after the Brexit transition period ends on 1 January next year, the government said on Wednesday. Owners will have to get an animal health certificate from a vet no earlier than 10 days before travel, the government said on its Brexit guidance page. British pets required only a passport while their country was part of the EU. Only vets officially allowed to inspect animals for export can issue the certificates. The same rule will apply for taking animals from England, Scotland and Wales to Northern Ireland. But the UK government said its approach to enforcing the rule in Northern Ireland would recognise "these changes will take time to adjust to", without specifying whether there would be a grace period. Owners will still have to ensure pets are microchipped and have up-to-date rabies vaccinations, as currently. The health certificates will be valid for pets' onward travel for four months. There will be no new rules on pets travelling from the EU into Britain, which will continue to recognise EU pet passports. The new rules are less complex than if the EU had classified Britain as an "unlisted" country -- the least favourable status. This would have involved animals getting a blood test to check for rabies at least three months ahead of travel. Britain has instead been given the same status for pet travel as Australia, Russia and the United States. The UK government is pushing to get Part 1 listed status, which would allow pets to travel almost as they do now.

British pet animals will need a certificate to enter European Union after Brexit

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday said that Britain and Eurpean Union were closer to sealing Brexit trade deal but she added that it was still unclear whether talks would succeed. UK is set to transition out of the world's largest trading bloc at the end of the year and time is short for both sides to agree over a trade deal.

UK PM Boris Johnson said he hoped the EU would "see sense" and agree a deal that respected Britain`s sovereignty, while German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the bloc favoured agreement.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told the European Parliament: "I cannot tell you whether there will be a deal or not. But I can tell you that there is a path to an agreement now. The path may be very narrow but it is there."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/intense-talks-on-a-post-brexit-trade-deal-continue-eu-chief-says-next-days-decisive-350154">Intense talks on a post-Brexit trade deal continue, EU chief says 'next days decisive'</a>

EU chief added that there were issues to be resolved.

"We have found a way forward on most issues but two issues still remain outstanding: the level playing field and fisheries," she said. "Issues linked to governance now have largely been resolved. The next days are going to be decisive."

A trade deal between UK and the EU would be necessary in order to keep an estimated one trillion dollars of annual trade free of tariffs and quotas beyond December 31.

(With Reuters inputs)

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday said that Britain and Eurpean Union were closer to sealing Brexit trade deal but she added that it was still unclear whether talks would succeed.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday said that Britain and Eurpean Union were closer to sealing Brexit trade deal but she added that it was still unclear whether talks would succeed. UK is set to transition out of the world's largest trading bloc at the end of the year and time is short for both sides to agree over a trade deal. UK PM Boris Johnson said he hoped the EU would "see sense" and agree a deal that respected Britain`s sovereignty, while German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the bloc favoured agreement. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told the European Parliament: "I cannot tell you whether there will be a deal or not. But I can tell you that there is a path to an agreement now. The path may be very narrow but it is there." Also Read | Intense talks on a post-Brexit trade deal continue, EU chief says 'next days decisive' EU chief added that there were issues to be resolved. "We have found a way forward on most issues but two issues still remain outstanding: the level playing field and fisheries," she said. "Issues linked to governance now have largely been resolved. The next days are going to be decisive." A trade deal between UK and the EU would be necessary in order to keep an estimated one trillion dollars of annual trade free of tariffs and quotas beyond December 31. (With Reuters inputs)

Closer to Brexit trade deal but success unclear, says EU chief in European Parliament

U.S. technology firms including Amazon, Apple, Facebook, and Google face fines of up to 10% of annual turnover and could even be broken up under draft European Union rules announced on Tuesday aimed at curbing their powers.

The rules are the most serious attempt by the 27-country bloc to rein in tech companies that control troves of data and online platforms relied on by thousands of companies and millions of Europeans for their work and social interactions.

They show the European Commission`s frustration with its antitrust cases against the tech giants, notably Alphabet`s Google, which critics say have not addressed the problem.

But they risk inflaming tensions with Washington, already irked by Brussels attempts to tax U.S. tech firms more.

"It seems Europe is intent on punishing successful companies that have made deep investments in Europe`s economic growth and recovery," Myron Brilliant, executive vice president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce said in a statement.

Regulatory scrutiny has been growing worldwide of tech giants following a string of scandals over privacy and misinformation, as well as complaints from some businesses that they abuse their market power.

EU Internal Market Commissioner Thierry Breton dismissed suggestions the rules could be discriminatory.

"Everybody is welcome in Europe. Our responsibility is to give direction, rules to protect what is important to us," he told a news conference.

One set of rules, the Digital Markets Act (DMA), targets so-called online gatekeepers - defined among other things as firms with more than 6.5 billion euros in annual European turnover in the last three years, 65 billion euros in market value and providing a core platform service in at least three EU countries.

This sets out a list of dos - such as sharing certain kinds of data with rivals and regulators - and don`ts - among them a halt to favouring their own services on their platforms, and calls for fines of up to 10% of annual global turnover for firms that don`t comply, or a break-up order as a last resort.

Gatekeepers will also be required to report merger bids to the authorities, a move aimed at preventing acquisitions to kill off rivals.

TWIN APPROACH

A second set of rules, the Digital Services Act (DSA), also targets very large online platforms, defined as those with more than 45 million users.

They will be required to do more to tackle illegal content, misuses of their platforms that infringe fundamental rights and intentional manipulation of platforms to influence elections and public health, among other requirements, or face fines of up to 6% of global turnover.

The companies will also have to show details of political advertising on their platforms and the parameters used by their algorithms to suggest and rank information.

"The two proposals serve one purpose: to make sure that we, as users, have access to a wide choice of safe products and services online. And that businesses operating in Europe can freely and fairly compete online just as they do offline.

This is one world," said European Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager, who has taken on all the four U.S. tech giants.

Google warned the new rules could hit innovation and growth.

"We are concerned that they appear to specifically target a handful of companies and make it harder to develop new products to support small businesses in Europe," said Karan Bhatia, Vice President of Government Affairs &amp; Public Policy.

Amsterdam-based booking.com, which could end up being classified as one of the few European gatekeepers, called for broader criteria.

"It cannot just be about the size or the number of users of a platform. It must be about its lock on consumers," it said.

The draft rules need to be approved by EU countries and EU lawmakers, some of which have pushed for tougher laws, while others are concerned about regulatory over-reach.

Tech companies, which have called for proportionate and balanced laws, are expected to take advantage of this split to lobby for weaker rules, with the final draft expected in the coming months or even years.

Differences between the tech giants could dilute the opposition. Facebook for one has urged the EU to rein in Apple.

"We hope the DMA will also set boundaries for Apple. Apple controls an entire ecosystem from device to app store and apps, and uses this power to harm developers and consumers, as well as large platforms like Facebook," the U.S. social network said in a statement.

U.S. technology firms including Amazon, Apple, Facebook, and Google face fines of up to 10% of annual turnover and could even be broken up under draft European Union rules announced on Tuesday aimed at curbing their powers.

U.S. technology firms including Amazon, Apple, Facebook, and Google face fines of up to 10% of annual turnover and could even be broken up under draft European Union rules announced on Tuesday aimed at curbing their powers. The rules are the most serious attempt by the 27-country bloc to rein in tech companies that control troves of data and online platforms relied on by thousands of companies and millions of Europeans for their work and social interactions. They show the European Commission`s frustration with its antitrust cases against the tech giants, notably Alphabet`s Google, which critics say have not addressed the problem. But they risk inflaming tensions with Washington, already irked by Brussels attempts to tax U.S. tech firms more. "It seems Europe is intent on punishing successful companies that have made deep investments in Europe`s economic growth and recovery," Myron Brilliant, executive vice president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce said in a statement. Regulatory scrutiny has been growing worldwide of tech giants following a string of scandals over privacy and misinformation, as well as complaints from some businesses that they abuse their market power. EU Internal Market Commissioner Thierry Breton dismissed suggestions the rules could be discriminatory. "Everybody is welcome in Europe. Our responsibility is to give direction, rules to protect what is important to us," he told a news conference. One set of rules, the Digital Markets Act (DMA), targets so-called online gatekeepers - defined among other things as firms with more than 6.5 billion euros in annual European turnover in the last three years, 65 billion euros in market value and providing a core platform service in at least three EU countries. This sets out a list of dos - such as sharing certain kinds of data with rivals and regulators - and don`ts - among them a halt to favouring their own services on their platforms, and calls for fines of up to 10% of annual global turnover for firms that don`t comply, or a break-up order as a last resort. Gatekeepers will also be required to report merger bids to the authorities, a move aimed at preventing acquisitions to kill off rivals. TWIN APPROACH A second set of rules, the Digital Services Act (DSA), also targets very large online platforms, defined as those with more than 45 million users. They will be required to do more to tackle illegal content, misuses of their platforms that infringe fundamental rights and intentional manipulation of platforms to influence elections and public health, among other requirements, or face fines of up to 6% of global turnover. The companies will also have to show details of political advertising on their platforms and the parameters used by their algorithms to suggest and rank information. "The two proposals serve one purpose: to make sure that we, as users, have access to a wide choice of safe products and services online. And that businesses operating in Europe can freely and fairly compete online just as they do offline. This is one world," said European Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager, who has taken on all the four U.S. tech giants. Google warned the new rules could hit innovation and growth. "We are concerned that they appear to specifically target a handful of companies and make it harder to develop new products to support small businesses in Europe," said Karan Bhatia, Vice President of Government Affairs & Public Policy. Amsterdam-based booking.com, which could end up being classified as one of the few European gatekeepers, called for broader criteria. "It cannot just be about the size or the number of users of a platform. It must be about its lock on consumers," it said. The draft rules need to be approved by EU countries and EU lawmakers, some of which have pushed for tougher laws, while others are concerned about regulatory over-reach. Tech companies, which have called for proportionate and balanced laws, are expected to take advantage of this split to lobby for weaker rules, with the final draft expected in the coming months or even years. Differences between the tech giants could dilute the opposition. Facebook for one has urged the EU to rein in Apple. "We hope the DMA will also set boundaries for Apple. Apple controls an entire ecosystem from device to app store and apps, and uses this power to harm developers and consumers, as well as large platforms like Facebook," the U.S. social network said in a statement.

EU moves to rein in US tech giants with threat of fines, break-up

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Tuesday suggested&nbsp;that no-deal Brexit is looking like the only way out of deadlock with trade talks with the European Union. Officials from the EU recently acknowledged that some progress was taking place, but there are only two weeks left before UK leaves the EU.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-fears-of-food-shortage-amid-brexit-no-deal-triggers-panic-buying-in-uk-349977/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Both sides want to secure a deal worth $1 trillion to dictate terms of trade beginning in 2021.

Talks between both the sides have missed multiple deadlines, with both sides acknowledging the lack of time. Both sides have shown rigidity in terms of the deal, stifling the scope of a breakthrough in negotiations.

According to his spokesman, Johnson told his ministers that he desires “to reach a free trade agreement, but not at any cost, and reiterated any agreement must respect the independence and sovereignty of the UK”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/uk-retailers-urge-public-not-to-stockpile-food-as-threat-of-no-deal-brexit-looms-350026" hreflang="en">UK: Retailers urge public not to stockpile food as threat of no-deal Brexit looms</a> 
 
"The prime minister made clear that not being able to reach an agreement and ending the transition period on Australia-style terms remained the most likely outcome but committed to continuing to negotiate on the remaining areas of disagreement”, the spokesperson added.

Earlier on Sunday, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met Boris Johnson on Sunday in a bid to improve scope of talks, with EU diplomats claiming that a trade deal was still possible.

Both the sides are unable to reach a consensus regarding fair competition, fishing rights, and future disputes. The EU has set out its terms, but Britain refuses to abide by them.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/satisfied-with-movement-in-brexit-talks-eu-chief-ursula-von-der-leyen-349742" hreflang="en">Satisfied with movement in Brexit talks: EU chief Ursula von der Leyen</a> 
 
To protect its single market, the EU sees a level playing field as crucial. But Johnson does not wish to be tied down by EU rules, earlier claiming that he would “take back control”. Even though EU officials claim momentum in talks, British officials claim that there has been little to no movement in the talks.

Without a trade deal, a Brexit would hurt the economies of European countries, damage markets, and cripple supply chains in Europe.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Tuesday suggested that no-deal Brexit is looking like the only way out of deadlock with trade talks with the European Union.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Tuesday suggested that no-deal Brexit is looking like the only way out of deadlock with trade talks with the European Union. Officials from the EU recently acknowledged that some progress was taking place, but there are only two weeks left before UK leaves the EU. Both sides want to secure a deal worth $1 trillion to dictate terms of trade beginning in 2021. Talks between both the sides have missed multiple deadlines, with both sides acknowledging the lack of time. Both sides have shown rigidity in terms of the deal, stifling the scope of a breakthrough in negotiations. According to his spokesman, Johnson told his ministers that he desires “to reach a free trade agreement, but not at any cost, and reiterated any agreement must respect the independence and sovereignty of the UK”. Also read: UK: Retailers urge public not to stockpile food as threat of no-deal Brexit looms "The prime minister made clear that not being able to reach an agreement and ending the transition period on Australia-style terms remained the most likely outcome but committed to continuing to negotiate on the remaining areas of disagreement”, the spokesperson added. Earlier on Sunday, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met Boris Johnson on Sunday in a bid to improve scope of talks, with EU diplomats claiming that a trade deal was still possible. Both the sides are unable to reach a consensus regarding fair competition, fishing rights, and future disputes. The EU has set out its terms, but Britain refuses to abide by them. Also read: Satisfied with movement in Brexit talks: EU chief Ursula von der Leyen To protect its single market, the EU sees a level playing field as crucial. But Johnson does not wish to be tied down by EU rules, earlier claiming that he would “take back control”. Even though EU officials claim momentum in talks, British officials claim that there has been little to no movement in the talks. Without a trade deal, a Brexit would hurt the economies of European countries, damage markets, and cripple supply chains in Europe.

Britain says no deal with European Union the most likely scenario

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