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

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

EU chief Ursula von der Leyen gave her most optimistic assessment of negotiations yet on Wednesday morning, but added she could still not say for sure if there would be a deal.

British and European negotiators have made little progress towards agreeing fair trade rules but are still far apart on access to fishing, she said as intense talks on a post-Brexit trade deal continued nearby in Brussels.

"The good news is that we have found a way forward on most issues," she said, adding that she and EU negotiator Michel Barnier can now see a "narrow path to an agreement".&nbsp;

"The next days are going to be decisive," the president of the European Commission told the European Parliament.

"But this is now a case of us being so close, and yet being so far away from each other, because two issues still remain outstanding, you know them: a level playing field and the fisheries."

Von der Leyen said that Barnier and his UK counterpart David Frost had made progress towards resolving rules for state aid to businesses and that the ways the deal will be governed "by now are largely being resolved."

But she was pessimistic on fish.&nbsp;

For months, the post-Brexit trade negotiations have stalled on the issues of fishing rights and the “level playing field” measures to prevent unfair competition. Britain is insisting that when it leaves the EU single market at the end of the year it will resume full control over access to its waters.

EU member states are holding out to preserve quotas for their crews fishing in UK waters and they want a long-term arrangement to provide stability.

Britain has so far only offered reduced access and annual quota renegotiations.

Ursula von der Leyen told MEPs there had been progress on the latter.

"On fisheries, the discussion is still very difficult," von der Leyen said.&nbsp;

"We do not question the UK sovereignty on its own waters, but we asked for predictability and stability for our fishermen and our fisherwomen," she said.

"And in all honesty, I sometimes feel that we will not be able to resolve this question."

EU chief Ursula von der Leyen gave her most optimistic assessment of negotiations yet on Wednesday morning, but added she could still not say for sure if there would be a deal.

EU chief Ursula von der Leyen gave her most optimistic assessment of negotiations yet on Wednesday morning, but added she could still not say for sure if there would be a deal. British and European negotiators have made little progress towards agreeing fair trade rules but are still far apart on access to fishing, she said as intense talks on a post-Brexit trade deal continued nearby in Brussels. "The good news is that we have found a way forward on most issues," she said, adding that she and EU negotiator Michel Barnier can now see a "narrow path to an agreement". "The next days are going to be decisive," the president of the European Commission told the European Parliament. "But this is now a case of us being so close, and yet being so far away from each other, because two issues still remain outstanding, you know them: a level playing field and the fisheries." Von der Leyen said that Barnier and his UK counterpart David Frost had made progress towards resolving rules for state aid to businesses and that the ways the deal will be governed "by now are largely being resolved." But she was pessimistic on fish. For months, the post-Brexit trade negotiations have stalled on the issues of fishing rights and the “level playing field” measures to prevent unfair competition. Britain is insisting that when it leaves the EU single market at the end of the year it will resume full control over access to its waters. EU member states are holding out to preserve quotas for their crews fishing in UK waters and they want a long-term arrangement to provide stability. Britain has so far only offered reduced access and annual quota renegotiations. Ursula von der Leyen told MEPs there had been progress on the latter. "On fisheries, the discussion is still very difficult," von der Leyen said. "We do not question the UK sovereignty on its own waters, but we asked for predictability and stability for our fishermen and our fisherwomen," she said. "And in all honesty, I sometimes feel that we will not be able to resolve this question."

Intense talks on a post-Brexit trade deal continue, EU chief says 'next days decisive'

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

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

Retailers have urged the British public not to stockpile food or toilet roll in the event of a no-deal&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;as time runs out for the UK and the EU to reach a trade agreement.

The British Retail Consortium (BRC) said shops were stockpiling items to ensure a “sufficient supply of essential products" amid the uncertainty but asked customers not to buy more than normal.

From January 1, the UK will be outside the EU single market and exporters will face a barrage of new regulations and checks that are expected to cause delays and shortages for British shoppers.

And if the ongoing post-Brexit trade talks between Britain and the European Commission fail to reach an agreement in the next two weeks, a return to trade tariffs will push prices up.

Authorities on both sides of the new divide insist they are ready for the shock, but businesses like the ECS-2XL logistics platform in Zeebrugge have not stood by waiting for instructions. &nbsp;

Britain and the EU agreed on Sunday to "go the extra mile" in the coming days to try to reach an elusive trade agreement despite missing their latest deadline to avert a turbulent exit at the end of the month.

Britain's Business Secretary Alok Sharma&nbsp;said he was confident food supplies would be maintained even if Britain leaves the bloc without a trade deal.

Britons stocked up on long-life goods in March as the country entered a COVID-19 national lockdown, stripping some shelves bare and forcing many people to queue for hours or drive further than normal to find goods such as toilet roll, tinned tomatoes, and rice.

The British Retail Consortium (BRC) said on Sunday that retailers were doing everything they could to prepare for all eventualities on Jan. 1 - increasing their stocks of tins, toilet rolls and other longer life products so there would be a sufficient supply of essential products.

It also said there was no need for the public to buy more food than usual as the main impact would be on imported fresh produce, such as fresh fruit and vegetables, which cannot be stored for long periods by either retailers or consumers.

The BRC has warned of higher prices without a trade deal. Tesco, Britain's biggest supermarket group, has said consumers should expect price increases of between 3 per cent&nbsp;and 5 per cent.

Retailers have urged the British public not to stockpile food or toilet roll in the event of a no-deal Brexit as time runs out for the UK and the EU to reach a trade agreement.

Retailers have urged the British public not to stockpile food or toilet roll in the event of a no-deal Brexit as time runs out for the UK and the EU to reach a trade agreement. The British Retail Consortium (BRC) said shops were stockpiling items to ensure a “sufficient supply of essential products" amid the uncertainty but asked customers not to buy more than normal. From January 1, the UK will be outside the EU single market and exporters will face a barrage of new regulations and checks that are expected to cause delays and shortages for British shoppers. And if the ongoing post-Brexit trade talks between Britain and the European Commission fail to reach an agreement in the next two weeks, a return to trade tariffs will push prices up. Authorities on both sides of the new divide insist they are ready for the shock, but businesses like the ECS-2XL logistics platform in Zeebrugge have not stood by waiting for instructions. Britain and the EU agreed on Sunday to "go the extra mile" in the coming days to try to reach an elusive trade agreement despite missing their latest deadline to avert a turbulent exit at the end of the month. Britain's Business Secretary Alok Sharma said he was confident food supplies would be maintained even if Britain leaves the bloc without a trade deal. Britons stocked up on long-life goods in March as the country entered a COVID-19 national lockdown, stripping some shelves bare and forcing many people to queue for hours or drive further than normal to find goods such as toilet roll, tinned tomatoes, and rice. The British Retail Consortium (BRC) said on Sunday that retailers were doing everything they could to prepare for all eventualities on Jan. 1 - increasing their stocks of tins, toilet rolls and other longer life products so there would be a sufficient supply of essential products. It also said there was no need for the public to buy more food than usual as the main impact would be on imported fresh produce, such as fresh fruit and vegetables, which cannot be stored for long periods by either retailers or consumers. The BRC has warned of higher prices without a trade deal. Tesco, Britain's biggest supermarket group, has said consumers should expect price increases of between 3 per cent and 5 per cent.

UK: Retailers urge public not to stockpile food as threat of no-deal Brexit looms

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

The U.K. government has asked the supermarkets to hold goods. Retail chains have also warned of possible shortage of fresh food and delay in the delivery if Britain leaves the E.U. (European Union) without a trade deal.

U.K. warns against food shortage as the food trade deal is about to end

The European Union has urged China to release all journalists and citizens held in connection with their reporting, following the detention of a Bloomberg News employee.

Haze Fan, a Chinese citizen, was taken from her home by plain-clothes security officials last Monday, Bloomberg said, and Beijing said she had been detained on suspicion of endangering national security.

"All those arrested and detained in connection with their reporting activity should be immediately released," an EU spokesperson said in a statement Saturday.

The statement mentioned that "other Chinese journalists or citizens have disappeared this year, or been detained or harassed after engaging in reporting".

"We expect the Chinese authorities to grant her (Fan) medical assistance if needed, prompt access to a lawyer of her choice, and contacts with her family," it added.

The Chinese foreign ministry said earlier that Fan's case was under investigation.

Bloomberg said it was "very concerned for her" and was continuing to seek more information.

Chinese citizens are forbidden by the government from working as reporters for foreign news organisations in China, but are allowed to work as news assistants.

Fan, who joined Bloomberg in 2017, has been credited as a contributor on numerous business stories.

Her detention comes months after China held a high-profile Chinese-born Australian journalist, citing similar suspicions.

Cheng Lei, a TV anchor at Chinese state-owned outlet CGTN, has not been seen in public since being held.

Two other Australian reporters -- Bill Birtles and Michael Smith -- fled China shortly after being interrogated about Cheng.

The European Union has urged China to release all journalists and citizens held in connection with their reporting, following the detention of a Bloomberg News employee.

The European Union has urged China to release all journalists and citizens held in connection with their reporting, following the detention of a Bloomberg News employee. Haze Fan, a Chinese citizen, was taken from her home by plain-clothes security officials last Monday, Bloomberg said, and Beijing said she had been detained on suspicion of endangering national security. "All those arrested and detained in connection with their reporting activity should be immediately released," an EU spokesperson said in a statement Saturday. The statement mentioned that "other Chinese journalists or citizens have disappeared this year, or been detained or harassed after engaging in reporting". "We expect the Chinese authorities to grant her (Fan) medical assistance if needed, prompt access to a lawyer of her choice, and contacts with her family," it added. The Chinese foreign ministry said earlier that Fan's case was under investigation. Bloomberg said it was "very concerned for her" and was continuing to seek more information. Chinese citizens are forbidden by the government from working as reporters for foreign news organisations in China, but are allowed to work as news assistants. Fan, who joined Bloomberg in 2017, has been credited as a contributor on numerous business stories. Her detention comes months after China held a high-profile Chinese-born Australian journalist, citing similar suspicions. Cheng Lei, a TV anchor at Chinese state-owned outlet CGTN, has not been seen in public since being held. Two other Australian reporters -- Bill Birtles and Michael Smith -- fled China shortly after being interrogated about Cheng.

EU urges China to free those detained for reporting after Bloomberg employee held

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

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

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

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

Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson and EU chief Ursula von der Leyen will hold another -- and probably, the last -- crisis call on Sunday to decide whether or not to abandon post-Brexit trade talks.

British negotiator David Frost met his EU counterpart Michel Barnier ahead of the leaders' call for last-ditch talks in the European Commission's Berlaymont headquarters in Brussels.

Sunday is just the latest in a string of supposedly hard deadlines for the negotiations but, with Britain due to leave the EU single market in 19 days, tensions are rising.

Johnson has said it is "very, very likely" the talks will fail, and EU officials have expressed similar pessimism, but British negotiator David Frost and his EU counterpart Michel Barnier carried on talking late into Saturday night ahead of Sunday's deadline.

On Saturday, Britain took the dramatic step of announcing that armed naval vessels will patrol its waters from January 1 to exclude European crews from the fisheries they have shared, in some cases for centuries.

Brussels' tone has been less bellicose, and von der Leyen has made it clear that the EU will respect UK sovereignty after Britain's post-Brexit transition period, but neither side is yet ready to compromise on its core principles.

Without a trade deal cross-Channel trade will revert to WTO rules, with tariffs driving up prices and generating paperwork for importers, and the failed negotiation may poison relations between London and Brussels for years to come.

On Wednesday, the EU chief said they had agreed to "come to a decision by the end of the weekend". Much of the text of a possible trade deal is said to be ready, but Britain has rejected Brussels' insistence on a mechanism to allow it to retaliate if UK and EU law diverge in a way that puts continental firms at a competitive disadvantage. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to AFP, a spokesman for the Johnson government has stressed that Britain was ready to leave the union and handle its own affairs after 47 years of close economic integration and that "as things stand, the offer on the table from the EU remains unacceptable.&nbsp;

Earlier, Downing Street had said the government had a playbook that "maps out every single foreseeable scenario" for potential problems after December 31, and "no one needs to worry about our food, medicine or vital supply chains".

Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson and EU chief Ursula von der Leyen will hold another -- and probably, the last -- crisis call on Sunday to decide whether or not to abandon post-Brexit trade talks.

Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson and EU chief Ursula von der Leyen will hold another -- and probably, the last -- crisis call on Sunday to decide whether or not to abandon post-Brexit trade talks. British negotiator David Frost met his EU counterpart Michel Barnier ahead of the leaders' call for last-ditch talks in the European Commission's Berlaymont headquarters in Brussels. Sunday is just the latest in a string of supposedly hard deadlines for the negotiations but, with Britain due to leave the EU single market in 19 days, tensions are rising. Johnson has said it is "very, very likely" the talks will fail, and EU officials have expressed similar pessimism, but British negotiator David Frost and his EU counterpart Michel Barnier carried on talking late into Saturday night ahead of Sunday's deadline. On Saturday, Britain took the dramatic step of announcing that armed naval vessels will patrol its waters from January 1 to exclude European crews from the fisheries they have shared, in some cases for centuries. Brussels' tone has been less bellicose, and von der Leyen has made it clear that the EU will respect UK sovereignty after Britain's post-Brexit transition period, but neither side is yet ready to compromise on its core principles. Without a trade deal cross-Channel trade will revert to WTO rules, with tariffs driving up prices and generating paperwork for importers, and the failed negotiation may poison relations between London and Brussels for years to come. On Wednesday, the EU chief said they had agreed to "come to a decision by the end of the weekend". Much of the text of a possible trade deal is said to be ready, but Britain has rejected Brussels' insistence on a mechanism to allow it to retaliate if UK and EU law diverge in a way that puts continental firms at a competitive disadvantage. According to AFP, a spokesman for the Johnson government has stressed that Britain was ready to leave the union and handle its own affairs after 47 years of close economic integration and that "as things stand, the offer on the table from the EU remains unacceptable. Earlier, Downing Street had said the government had a playbook that "maps out every single foreseeable scenario" for potential problems after December 31, and "no one needs to worry about our food, medicine or vital supply chains".

UK PM Boris Johnson and EU chief Ursula von der Leyen to decide fate of Brexit deal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

European Union plans to impose more sanctions on Turkey

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

UK travellers will be barred from visiting EU countries in the new year when the Brexit transition period ends.

The current Brexit transition period ends on December 31 and these travel restrictions will still apply even if the UK and EU strike a trade deal.

January 1 onwards, travellers from the UK will be subject to the same travel restrictions as all other non-EU countries which -- due to the coronavirus pandemic -- bars all but essential travel to Europe.

Travellers from a limited number of countries with low coronavirus rates are allowed to visit EU countries for non-essential travel.

Eight non-EU countries, including Singapore, Australia and New Zealand, are on the list of "safe" third nations.

According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, 18 EU countries have higher rates of Covid-19 than Britain.

The UK has so far recorded the highest number of coronavirus deaths in Europe, with more than 62,000 fatalities.

UK travellers will be barred from visiting EU countries in the new year when the Brexit transition period ends. The current Brexit transition period ends on December 31 and these travel restrictions will still apply even if the UK and EU strike a trade deal.

UK travellers will be barred from visiting EU countries in the new year when the Brexit transition period ends. The current Brexit transition period ends on December 31 and these travel restrictions will still apply even if the UK and EU strike a trade deal. January 1 onwards, travellers from the UK will be subject to the same travel restrictions as all other non-EU countries which -- due to the coronavirus pandemic -- bars all but essential travel to Europe. Travellers from a limited number of countries with low coronavirus rates are allowed to visit EU countries for non-essential travel. Eight non-EU countries, including Singapore, Australia and New Zealand, are on the list of "safe" third nations. According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, 18 EU countries have higher rates of Covid-19 than Britain. The UK has so far recorded the highest number of coronavirus deaths in Europe, with more than 62,000 fatalities.

Britons could be banned from EU after January 1 under Covid rules

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

European Union set to impose sanctions on Turkey

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

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

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

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

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is scheduled to head to Brussels on Wednesday for a dinner with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in a last ditch attempt to avoid a tumultuous no-trade deal Brexit.

With growing fears of a chaotic no-deal finale to the five-year Brexit crisis when the United Kingdom finally leaves the EU's orbit on December 31, the dinner is being cast as a last chance to unlock the stalled trade talks.

Johnson's Brexit supremo, Michael Gove, refused on Wednesday to give odds of a deal but said the EU would have to move if there was to be an agreement. He had previously put the odds of securing a trade deal at 66%.

Failure to secure a deal would snarl borders, shock financial markets and sow chaos through the delicate supply chains that thread across Europe and beyond just as the world faces the vast economic cost of the COVID-19 pandemic.

An acrimonious no-trade deal exit would, in the short term, split the West, slice off a chunk of both British and EU gross domestic product while making trade much more expensive for businesses trading everything from car parts to Camembert.

Sterling was flat against the dollar around 1.3369, after three straight days of losses and stands around 1% off 2-1/2 year highs hit at the end of last week.

But overnight implied volatility -- a measure of expected price swings -- rose to a new 8-1/2 month high of close to 25%.

EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier said on Tuesday he believed a 'no-deal' split in ties with Britain at the end of the year was now more likely than agreement on a trade pact, sources in the bloc said. He made the remark at a meeting with the 27 national European affairs ministers and added that it was time for the bloc to update its no-deal contingency plans.

Britain said on Tuesday it would drop clauses in draft domestic legislation that breached the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement after it clinched a deal with the EU over how to manage the Ireland-Northern Ireland border. 
&nbsp;

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is scheduled to head to Brussels on Wednesday for a dinner with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in a last ditch attempt to avoid a tumultuous no-trade deal Brexit.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is scheduled to head to Brussels on Wednesday for a dinner with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in a last ditch attempt to avoid a tumultuous no-trade deal Brexit. With growing fears of a chaotic no-deal finale to the five-year Brexit crisis when the United Kingdom finally leaves the EU's orbit on December 31, the dinner is being cast as a last chance to unlock the stalled trade talks. Johnson's Brexit supremo, Michael Gove, refused on Wednesday to give odds of a deal but said the EU would have to move if there was to be an agreement. He had previously put the odds of securing a trade deal at 66%. Failure to secure a deal would snarl borders, shock financial markets and sow chaos through the delicate supply chains that thread across Europe and beyond just as the world faces the vast economic cost of the COVID-19 pandemic. An acrimonious no-trade deal exit would, in the short term, split the West, slice off a chunk of both British and EU gross domestic product while making trade much more expensive for businesses trading everything from car parts to Camembert. Sterling was flat against the dollar around 1.3369, after three straight days of losses and stands around 1% off 2-1/2 year highs hit at the end of last week. But overnight implied volatility -- a measure of expected price swings -- rose to a new 8-1/2 month high of close to 25%. EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier said on Tuesday he believed a 'no-deal' split in ties with Britain at the end of the year was now more likely than agreement on a trade pact, sources in the bloc said. He made the remark at a meeting with the 27 national European affairs ministers and added that it was time for the bloc to update its no-deal contingency plans. Britain said on Tuesday it would drop clauses in draft domestic legislation that breached the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement after it clinched a deal with the EU over how to manage the Ireland-Northern Ireland border.

Johnson heads for dinner with EU Commission chief. Will it be the last supper?

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that his country would not “bow down to threats and blackmail" in his disputes with Greece. This comes as European Union foreign ministers meet in Brussels to discuss the issue of sanctions over the dispute.

Prez Erdogan says, Turkey will not bow to threats

This year Europe witnessed its hottest November on record, the European Union's satellite monitoring service said on Monday. &nbsp;

The analysis by Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) found that November 2020 was 0.8 C hotter than the 30-year average of 1981-2010, more than 0.1 C warmer than the previous highest.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/earth-has-lost-28-trillion-tonnes-of-ice-since-1994-due-to-global-warming-322639/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In the September-November period, known as boreal autumn, the temperatures in Europe were 1.9 C above the standard reference period, 0.4 C more than which was the previous warmest in 2006.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/reducing-greenhouse-gas-emission-even-to-zero-wont-stop-global-warming-study-342988">Reducing greenhouse gas emission even to zero won't stop global warming: Study</a>

"These records are consistent with the long-term warming trend of the global climate," said C3S director Carlo Buontempo, as reported by news agency AFP. &nbsp;

"All policy-makers who prioritise mitigating climate risks should see these records as alarm bells and consider more seriously than ever how to best comply with the international commitments set out in the 2015 Paris Agreement".

The analysis comes after the World Meteorological Organization's comments last week that said that 2020 was on track to be the hottest year ever recorded.&nbsp;

Satellite images analysed by C3S found that Arctic sea ice extent was the second-lowest for November in the database, which started in 1979.

C3S said that 2020 is on course to match 2016's record, which currently stands as the hottest year ever.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

This year Europe witnessed its hottest November on record, the European Union's satellite monitoring service said on Monday. The analysis by Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) found that November 2020 was 0.

This year Europe witnessed its hottest November on record, the European Union's satellite monitoring service said on Monday. The analysis by Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) found that November 2020 was 0.8 C hotter than the 30-year average of 1981-2010, more than 0.1 C warmer than the previous highest. Watch | In the September-November period, known as boreal autumn, the temperatures in Europe were 1.9 C above the standard reference period, 0.4 C more than which was the previous warmest in 2006. Also read | Reducing greenhouse gas emission even to zero won't stop global warming: Study "These records are consistent with the long-term warming trend of the global climate," said C3S director Carlo Buontempo, as reported by news agency AFP. "All policy-makers who prioritise mitigating climate risks should see these records as alarm bells and consider more seriously than ever how to best comply with the international commitments set out in the 2015 Paris Agreement". The analysis comes after the World Meteorological Organization's comments last week that said that 2020 was on track to be the hottest year ever recorded. Satellite images analysed by C3S found that Arctic sea ice extent was the second-lowest for November in the database, which started in 1979. C3S said that 2020 is on course to match 2016's record, which currently stands as the hottest year ever.

November 2020 was the hottest on record: EU

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

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

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

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

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen have instructed their negotiators to resume trade talks on Sunday.

This is being seen as a last ditch attempt to bridge significant differences regarding the Brexit deal -- governing almost $1 trillion of trade a year.

The long-running talks were stalled on Friday over three of the thorniest issues suggests both sides. Reports said the talks would resume where they had left off.

In a joint statement, the two leaders said that while there were serious differences, "we agreed that a further effort should be undertaken by our negotiating teams to assess whether they can be resolved".

"No agreement is feasible if these issues are not resolved," they said after speaking for more than an hour on Saturday. "We are therefore instructing our chief negotiators to reconvene tomorrow in Brussels. We will speak again on Monday evening."

Britain left the European Union on January 31 and entered a transition period that runs until the end of the year.

After months of negotiations, there has barely been any movement on three areas of disagreement - fisheries, ensuring fair competition guarantees and ways to solve future disputes.

Sources from both sides said that French demands over fishing rights in British waters remained a key issue, and some in Johnson's Conservative Party suggested that EU officials had to convince French President Emmanuel Macron to back a deal.

Johnson, a figurehead for Britain's campaign to leave the EU, must be able to convince Brexit supporters that he has secured a clean break, reclaiming what he called during last year's election campaign the country's sovereignty.

If the two sides fail to reach a deal, the five-year Brexit divorce will end messily just as Britain and Europe grapple with the vast economic cost of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Both sides acknowledge that time is running out and UK and EU sources gave a pessimistic readout following the call between Johnson and von der Leyen on Saturday.

With less than four weeks to go before Britain completes its journey out of the bloc, both sides must also get agreement on any deal from their parliaments and the EU executive needs to get approval from all 27 member states.

If the talks continue beyond Sunday, they may be further soured when the British government presses ahead on Monday with legislation that breaks an earlier Brexit deal by reintroducing contentious clauses the upper house of parliament removed.

The British government is also introducing a new piece of legislation which is expected to contain more provisions that undermine parts of the exit deal. The clauses, which the government says it needs as a safety net to ensure unfettered trade between its four nations, might not be needed if London and Brussels agree a trade deal.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen have instructed their negotiators to resume trade talks on Sunday. This is being seen as a last ditch attempt to bridge significant differences regarding the Brexit deal -- governing almost $1 trillion of trade a year.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen have instructed their negotiators to resume trade talks on Sunday. This is being seen as a last ditch attempt to bridge significant differences regarding the Brexit deal -- governing almost $1 trillion of trade a year. The long-running talks were stalled on Friday over three of the thorniest issues suggests both sides. Reports said the talks would resume where they had left off. In a joint statement, the two leaders said that while there were serious differences, "we agreed that a further effort should be undertaken by our negotiating teams to assess whether they can be resolved". "No agreement is feasible if these issues are not resolved," they said after speaking for more than an hour on Saturday. "We are therefore instructing our chief negotiators to reconvene tomorrow in Brussels. We will speak again on Monday evening." Britain left the European Union on January 31 and entered a transition period that runs until the end of the year. After months of negotiations, there has barely been any movement on three areas of disagreement - fisheries, ensuring fair competition guarantees and ways to solve future disputes. Sources from both sides said that French demands over fishing rights in British waters remained a key issue, and some in Johnson's Conservative Party suggested that EU officials had to convince French President Emmanuel Macron to back a deal. Johnson, a figurehead for Britain's campaign to leave the EU, must be able to convince Brexit supporters that he has secured a clean break, reclaiming what he called during last year's election campaign the country's sovereignty. If the two sides fail to reach a deal, the five-year Brexit divorce will end messily just as Britain and Europe grapple with the vast economic cost of the COVID-19 outbreak. Both sides acknowledge that time is running out and UK and EU sources gave a pessimistic readout following the call between Johnson and von der Leyen on Saturday. With less than four weeks to go before Britain completes its journey out of the bloc, both sides must also get agreement on any deal from their parliaments and the EU executive needs to get approval from all 27 member states. If the talks continue beyond Sunday, they may be further soured when the British government presses ahead on Monday with legislation that breaks an earlier Brexit deal by reintroducing contentious clauses the upper house of parliament removed. The British government is also introducing a new piece of legislation which is expected to contain more provisions that undermine parts of the exit deal. The clauses, which the government says it needs as a safety net to ensure unfettered trade between its four nations, might not be needed if London and Brussels agree a trade deal.

UK, EU to resume talks in final push for Brexit trade deal

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

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

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

Explainer: The potential impact of Brexit without a trade deal

Britain and the European Union failed to secure a trade agreement on Friday, saying talks would be paused for now.

The negotiators will now talk to politicians to get better guidance on where to go next.

With less than four weeks left until Britain leaves the EU's orbit on December 31, both sides have said the talks are stuck on three areas, with each calling for the other to compromise to secure a deal governing almost $1 trillion of annual trade.

"After one week of intense negotiations in London, the two chief negotiators agreed today that the conditions for an agreement are not met, due to significant divergences on level playing field, governance and fisheries," they said in a statement.

"On this basis, they agreed to pause in order to brief their principals on the state of play of the negotiations. (European Commission) President (Ursula) von der Leyen and Prime Minister (Boris) Johnson will discuss the state of play tomorrow afternoon."

Britain formally left the EU on January 31 but has been in a transition period since then under which rules on trade, travel and business remain unchanged. From the end of the year, it will be treated by Brussels as a third country.

If the two sides fail to reach a deal, the five-year Brexit divorce will end in disorder just as Europe grapples with the vast economic cost of the COVID-19 outbreak.

A no-deal exit is the nightmare scenario for businesses and investors, who say it would snarl borders, spook financial markets and sow chaos through supply chains that stretch across Europe and beyond.

(with inputs)

Britain and the European Union failed to secure a trade agreement on Friday, saying talks would be paused for now. The negotiators will now talk to politicians to get better guidance on where to go next.

Britain and the European Union failed to secure a trade agreement on Friday, saying talks would be paused for now. The negotiators will now talk to politicians to get better guidance on where to go next. With less than four weeks left until Britain leaves the EU's orbit on December 31, both sides have said the talks are stuck on three areas, with each calling for the other to compromise to secure a deal governing almost $1 trillion of annual trade. "After one week of intense negotiations in London, the two chief negotiators agreed today that the conditions for an agreement are not met, due to significant divergences on level playing field, governance and fisheries," they said in a statement. "On this basis, they agreed to pause in order to brief their principals on the state of play of the negotiations. (European Commission) President (Ursula) von der Leyen and Prime Minister (Boris) Johnson will discuss the state of play tomorrow afternoon." Britain formally left the EU on January 31 but has been in a transition period since then under which rules on trade, travel and business remain unchanged. From the end of the year, it will be treated by Brussels as a third country. If the two sides fail to reach a deal, the five-year Brexit divorce will end in disorder just as Europe grapples with the vast economic cost of the COVID-19 outbreak. A no-deal exit is the nightmare scenario for businesses and investors, who say it would snarl borders, spook financial markets and sow chaos through supply chains that stretch across Europe and beyond. (with inputs)

Britain, EU fail to reach deal; trade talks paused

A bombshell&nbsp;report by NATO has blamed Russia for compromising Western interests from the Atlantic Ocean to the Arctic, as General Jens Stoltenberg, the bloc's secretary-general calls for individuals to heighten their essence on the nation's fringes.&nbsp;

The examination, distributed on Wednesday, contended that Moscow takes part in "self-assured strategies and forceful activity," which has "adversely affected the security of the Euro-Atlantic territory." "In the long haul until 2030, Russia is probably going to remain the primary military danger toward the North Atlantic Alliance," the creators of the report said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-defies-west-sanctions-after-natos-emergency-meeting-over-navalny-325249">Russia defies West sanctions after NATO's emergency meeting over Navalny</a>

It added that Moscow regularly arranges "intimidatory military tasks in the prompt region of NATO." The remarks come only two days after the top of the association, Jens Stoltenberg, told a public interview that individuals need to additionally reinforce their quality on Russia's outskirts on the Crimean promontory and the Black Sea, and discussed a need to expand their maritime presence in the district.&nbsp;

As a component of rising strains, a week ago the US-led a progression of rocket-dispatch tests during NATO practices in Romania, firing long-range missiles with the capability to hit Russian territory into the Black Sea. Reacting to the drill, the appointee top of the Public Chamber of Crimea, Alexander Formanchuk, told correspondents that Russian military had conveyed progressed equipment on the promontory, which would kill any "shock rocket assault."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-backed-hackers-running-anti-nato-fake-news-campaign-report-317281">Russia-backed hackers running anti-NATO fake news campaign: Report</a>

The lawmaker contended that the activities fit inside a more extensive example of heightening, saying that "incitements against Crimea have gotten more incessant. Tragically, we are seeing a further compounding of global relations and the worldwide circumstance. What's more, the subject of Crimea is an advantageous explanation behind raising such incitements."&nbsp;

Recently, the Russian Navy took steps to smash an American warship, the USS 'John S. McCain', which it says was captured two kilometers inside Russian waters in the Sea of Japan, off the shore of the Far East capital of Vladivostock.&nbsp;

In his location to pioneers on Tuesday, Stoltenberg added that "we see Russia disregarding and subverting arrangements." Moscow has, notwithstanding, communicated comparable worries after the US singularly rejected various peaceful accords, including the Cold War-time Open Skies agreement that took into consideration straightforwardness over the developments of troops and military equipment on the landmass.&nbsp;

A year ago, President Donald Trump's White House additionally destroyed the Reagan-time Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty that had restricted various exceptionally dangerous weapons with scopes of somewhere in the range of 500km and 5,500km. At that point, Washington likewise blamed Russia for breaking the states of the agreement, while Moscow unequivocally denied the claims.

A bombshell report by NATO has blamed Russia for compromising Western interests from the Atlantic Ocean to the Arctic, as General Jens Stoltenberg, the bloc's secretary-general calls for individuals to heighten their essence on the nation's fringes.

A bombshell report by NATO has blamed Russia for compromising Western interests from the Atlantic Ocean to the Arctic, as General Jens Stoltenberg, the bloc's secretary-general calls for individuals to heighten their essence on the nation's fringes. The examination, distributed on Wednesday, contended that Moscow takes part in "self-assured strategies and forceful activity," which has "adversely affected the security of the Euro-Atlantic territory." "In the long haul until 2030, Russia is probably going to remain the primary military danger toward the North Atlantic Alliance," the creators of the report said. Also read: Russia defies West sanctions after NATO's emergency meeting over Navalny It added that Moscow regularly arranges "intimidatory military tasks in the prompt region of NATO." The remarks come only two days after the top of the association, Jens Stoltenberg, told a public interview that individuals need to additionally reinforce their quality on Russia's outskirts on the Crimean promontory and the Black Sea, and discussed a need to expand their maritime presence in the district. As a component of rising strains, a week ago the US-led a progression of rocket-dispatch tests during NATO practices in Romania, firing long-range missiles with the capability to hit Russian territory into the Black Sea. Reacting to the drill, the appointee top of the Public Chamber of Crimea, Alexander Formanchuk, told correspondents that Russian military had conveyed progressed equipment on the promontory, which would kill any "shock rocket assault." Also read: Russia-backed hackers running anti-NATO fake news campaign: Report The lawmaker contended that the activities fit inside a more extensive example of heightening, saying that "incitements against Crimea have gotten more incessant. Tragically, we are seeing a further compounding of global relations and the worldwide circumstance. What's more, the subject of Crimea is an advantageous explanation behind raising such incitements." Recently, the Russian Navy took steps to smash an American warship, the USS 'John S. McCain', which it says was captured two kilometers inside Russian waters in the Sea of Japan, off the shore of the Far East capital of Vladivostock. In his location to pioneers on Tuesday, Stoltenberg added that "we see Russia disregarding and subverting arrangements." Moscow has, notwithstanding, communicated comparable worries after the US singularly rejected various peaceful accords, including the Cold War-time Open Skies agreement that took into consideration straightforwardness over the developments of troops and military equipment on the landmass. A year ago, President Donald Trump's White House additionally destroyed the Reagan-time Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty that had restricted various exceptionally dangerous weapons with scopes of somewhere in the range of 500km and 5,500km. At that point, Washington likewise blamed Russia for breaking the states of the agreement, while Moscow unequivocally denied the claims.

NATO calls 'intimidating' Russia 'biggest threat' to bloc; plans to send warships to Black Sea

A senior British minister said on Tuesday that there was still a possibility of Britain leaving European Union without a formal trade deal. A no-deal Brexit can prove to be problematic as it may give rise to disputes between Britain and the EU in the immediate and distant future. The current talks over the trade deal have hit a snag on fishing, governance rules and dispute resolution.

Britain is set to leave the EU's orbit on December 31 this year. Both sides are engaged in talks to hammer out a trade deal in order to avoid negative effect on USD 1 trillion annual trade. Each side is urging the other to compromise.

A French official said Britain must clarify its positions and "really negotiate", and cautioned that the EU would not accept a "substandard deal".

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-johnson-urges-lawmakers-to-back-regional-covid-19-restrictions-346753">UK's Johnson urges lawmakers to back regional COVID-19 restrictions</a> 
 
Both Britain and the EU say they want a deal, and their two negotiating teams have been locked in intensive talks for more than five weeks though they are still at odds over the three most contentious issues.

Yet, EU sources have said they are hoping for a deal in the coming days and the bloc's negotiator, Michel Barnier, was due to update the 27 national envoys to the EU at 0730 GMT on Wednesday in Brussels.

Michael Gove, the cabinet minister responsible for the divorce deal, said an agreement was close but that to get it over the line the EU would have to live up to its responsibilities.

Asked if a "no-deal" scenario was closer than anyone would admit, he told ITV: "It's certainly the case that there is a chance that we may not get a negotiated outcome."

"That's why it's important business prepares for all eventualities, but I very much want a deal and I believe that we can secure one," Gove said.

Gove avoided repeating an earlier prediction of a 66% probability of a deal, declining to give a figure.

A report by Times Radio that the talks had entered the so-called "tunnel" or final stretch saw the pound rise to as high as $1.3442. [GBP/]

"In the endgame"

While most major investment banks say a deal is their central prediction, some investors have pointed out that Wall Street and the City of London were poorly prepared for the 2016 referendum as few believed the United Kingdom would vote out.

Failure to secure a deal would snarl borders, spook financial markets and disrupt delicate supply chains that stretch across Europe and beyond -- just as the world grapples with the vast economic cost of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson, under pressure from opponents in his party who dislike strict coronavirus restrictions, says a deal is preferable but that the United Kingdom could prosper without one. Both sides have contingency plans for a no-deal exit.

Even if a trade accord is secured, it is likely to be just a narrow deal on goods, and some disruption is certain as border controls are erected between Britain and the world's biggest trading bloc.

Britain's Office for Budget Responsibility said last week that failure to agree a free trade deal would wipe an extra 2% off UK economic output - in addition to the 4% drop from leaving the bloc with a deal - while driving up inflation, unemployment and public borrowing.

Talks have snagged on fishing in Britain's rich waters, on what EU rules London will accept, and on how any future disputes might be resolved.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Europe's most powerful national leader, has said some of the EU's 27 member states are getting impatient.

Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin said a deal could be done this week, while his deputy, Leo Varadkar, told the Dublin Chamber of Commerce: "We still don't know what will happen there, but obviously we are all hopeful that we will see an FTA (free trade agreement) concluded in the next couple of weeks."

(With Reuters inputs)

A senior British minister said on Tuesday that there was still a possibility of Britain leaving European Union without a formal trade deal. A no-deal Brexit can prove to be problematic as it may give rise to disputes between Britain and the EU in the immediate and distant future.

A senior British minister said on Tuesday that there was still a possibility of Britain leaving European Union without a formal trade deal. A no-deal Brexit can prove to be problematic as it may give rise to disputes between Britain and the EU in the immediate and distant future. The current talks over the trade deal have hit a snag on fishing, governance rules and dispute resolution. Britain is set to leave the EU's orbit on December 31 this year. Both sides are engaged in talks to hammer out a trade deal in order to avoid negative effect on USD 1 trillion annual trade. Each side is urging the other to compromise. A French official said Britain must clarify its positions and "really negotiate", and cautioned that the EU would not accept a "substandard deal". Also Read | UK's Johnson urges lawmakers to back regional COVID-19 restrictions Both Britain and the EU say they want a deal, and their two negotiating teams have been locked in intensive talks for more than five weeks though they are still at odds over the three most contentious issues. Yet, EU sources have said they are hoping for a deal in the coming days and the bloc's negotiator, Michel Barnier, was due to update the 27 national envoys to the EU at 0730 GMT on Wednesday in Brussels. Michael Gove, the cabinet minister responsible for the divorce deal, said an agreement was close but that to get it over the line the EU would have to live up to its responsibilities. Asked if a "no-deal" scenario was closer than anyone would admit, he told ITV: "It's certainly the case that there is a chance that we may not get a negotiated outcome." "That's why it's important business prepares for all eventualities, but I very much want a deal and I believe that we can secure one," Gove said. Gove avoided repeating an earlier prediction of a 66% probability of a deal, declining to give a figure. A report by Times Radio that the talks had entered the so-called "tunnel" or final stretch saw the pound rise to as high as $1.3442. [GBP/] "In the endgame" While most major investment banks say a deal is their central prediction, some investors have pointed out that Wall Street and the City of London were poorly prepared for the 2016 referendum as few believed the United Kingdom would vote out. Failure to secure a deal would snarl borders, spook financial markets and disrupt delicate supply chains that stretch across Europe and beyond -- just as the world grapples with the vast economic cost of the COVID-19 outbreak. Prime Minister Boris Johnson, under pressure from opponents in his party who dislike strict coronavirus restrictions, says a deal is preferable but that the United Kingdom could prosper without one. Both sides have contingency plans for a no-deal exit. Even if a trade accord is secured, it is likely to be just a narrow deal on goods, and some disruption is certain as border controls are erected between Britain and the world's biggest trading bloc. Britain's Office for Budget Responsibility said last week that failure to agree a free trade deal would wipe an extra 2% off UK economic output - in addition to the 4% drop from leaving the bloc with a deal - while driving up inflation, unemployment and public borrowing. Talks have snagged on fishing in Britain's rich waters, on what EU rules London will accept, and on how any future disputes might be resolved. German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Europe's most powerful national leader, has said some of the EU's 27 member states are getting impatient. Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin said a deal could be done this week, while his deputy, Leo Varadkar, told the Dublin Chamber of Commerce: "We still don't know what will happen there, but obviously we are all hopeful that we will see an FTA (free trade agreement) concluded in the next couple of weeks." (With Reuters inputs)

No-deal Brexit still a possibility: British minister

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

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

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

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

Face-to-face negotiations between Britain and the European Union over a trade deal have restarted as the two sides make a last ditch attempt to reach an agreement with just five weeks to go before their current relationship ends.

The Times newspaper reported UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen would speak in the next 48 hours. But Reuters refuted the report.

The first sign of movement -- either towards a deal or that talks are crumbling -- is likely to be a call between Johnson and von der Leyen.

The Times also reported that the European Commission has started to "lean on" EU negotiator Michel Barnier to reach a deal with Britain, raising hopes that an agreement could come.

EU negotiator Michel Barnier arrived for talks in London on Saturday morning. He had said on Friday night that he was "very happy" to be back in the city and would keep working with "patience and determination".

Barnier and Britain's negotiator David Frost are working to secure a deal before the UK's transition period with the EU ends on December 31.

Both sides said on Friday that there were still big differences to overcome, as they both called for the other to compromise on the three main issues of contention - fishing, state aid and how to resolve any future disputes.

Britain left the bloc on January 31 this year and a "no-deal" final exit would snarl borders, spook financial markets and disrupt delicate supply chains that stretch across Europe and beyond -- just as the world grapples with the vast economic cost of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Face-to-face negotiations between Britain and the European Union over a trade deal have restarted as the two sides make a last ditch attempt to reach an agreement with just five weeks to go before their current relationship ends.

Face-to-face negotiations between Britain and the European Union over a trade deal have restarted as the two sides make a last ditch attempt to reach an agreement with just five weeks to go before their current relationship ends. The Times newspaper reported UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen would speak in the next 48 hours. But Reuters refuted the report. The first sign of movement -- either towards a deal or that talks are crumbling -- is likely to be a call between Johnson and von der Leyen. The Times also reported that the European Commission has started to "lean on" EU negotiator Michel Barnier to reach a deal with Britain, raising hopes that an agreement could come. EU negotiator Michel Barnier arrived for talks in London on Saturday morning. He had said on Friday night that he was "very happy" to be back in the city and would keep working with "patience and determination". Barnier and Britain's negotiator David Frost are working to secure a deal before the UK's transition period with the EU ends on December 31. Both sides said on Friday that there were still big differences to overcome, as they both called for the other to compromise on the three main issues of contention - fishing, state aid and how to resolve any future disputes. Britain left the bloc on January 31 this year and a "no-deal" final exit would snarl borders, spook financial markets and disrupt delicate supply chains that stretch across Europe and beyond -- just as the world grapples with the vast economic cost of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Brexit trade talks resume in person amid growing EU scepticism

The European Union (EU) delegation and the EU Heads of Mission based in Kabul have urged for a "swift establishment" of the Afghan High Council of National Reconciliation,the body designated to provide "guidance" to the ongoing peace negotiations. 
 
The statement came at a time Afghan and the Taliban delegations in Qatari capital Doha continue to struggle on finalizing the procedural rules for the intra-Afghan talks, Khaama Press reported. 
 
"We encourage the swift establishment and operationalisation of the High Council of National Reconciliation as the body designated to provide guidance to the negotiations," the EU said in a statement on Thursday. 
 
"In addition to political leaders, the membership of the Council should include a diverse membership representing women`s groups, war victims, religious minorities, youth and civil society organizations," it added. 
 
While the ongoing talks between the Afghan and Taliban negotiators in Doha push through a peace deal in a war-torn country, the international community&nbsp;including the EU and women rights activists&nbsp;raise voice for equal role in the process. 
 
"Reaching a sustainable outcome respecting the rights and aspirations of the Afghan people will be best served by a strong political unity on the side of the Republic and the inclusion of all Afghan voices in the process," the EU in Kabul elaborated. 
 
Addressing the current war that has escalated in different parts of the country, the EU said that "we express deep concern about the continuing high level of violence and the security situation in Afghanistan, especially the number of civilian casualties and call for an immediate permanent and comprehensive ceasefire". 
 
The EU Delegation and EU Heads of Mission based in Kabul, as underscored at the Afghanistan 2020 conference, reaffirm the strong support of the bloc and its member states to a balanced Afghan Peace process, the statement concluded.

The European Union (EU) delegation and the EU Heads of Mission based in Kabul have urged for a "swift establishment" of the Afghan High Council of National Reconciliation,the body designated to provide "guidance" to the ongoing peace negotiations.

The European Union (EU) delegation and the EU Heads of Mission based in Kabul have urged for a "swift establishment" of the Afghan High Council of National Reconciliation,the body designated to provide "guidance" to the ongoing peace negotiations. The statement came at a time Afghan and the Taliban delegations in Qatari capital Doha continue to struggle on finalizing the procedural rules for the intra-Afghan talks, Khaama Press reported. "We encourage the swift establishment and operationalisation of the High Council of National Reconciliation as the body designated to provide guidance to the negotiations," the EU said in a statement on Thursday. "In addition to political leaders, the membership of the Council should include a diverse membership representing women`s groups, war victims, religious minorities, youth and civil society organizations," it added. While the ongoing talks between the Afghan and Taliban negotiators in Doha push through a peace deal in a war-torn country, the international community including the EU and women rights activists raise voice for equal role in the process. "Reaching a sustainable outcome respecting the rights and aspirations of the Afghan people will be best served by a strong political unity on the side of the Republic and the inclusion of all Afghan voices in the process," the EU in Kabul elaborated. Addressing the current war that has escalated in different parts of the country, the EU said that "we express deep concern about the continuing high level of violence and the security situation in Afghanistan, especially the number of civilian casualties and call for an immediate permanent and comprehensive ceasefire". The EU Delegation and EU Heads of Mission based in Kabul, as underscored at the Afghanistan 2020 conference, reaffirm the strong support of the bloc and its member states to a balanced Afghan Peace process, the statement concluded.

EU urges Afghan Peace Council to 'include diverse membership'

Sri Lanka Thursday extended a ban on non-essential imports such as vehicles as it battles a foreign currency crisis, despite EU claims it violates international trade regulations.

The ban was announced by the finance ministry in March as the local currency plunged and the economy reeled from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic and last year's Easter Sunday bombings.

"The restrictions are primarily because of the difficult situation we are in (regarding balance of payments)," the central bank's economic research director Chandranath Amarasekara said.

"The import ban on high-value items like vehicles and agricultural produce will be extended for another year to save foreign exchange as well as to encourage local agriculture."

The government had said that the prohibition, which also covers spare parts, machinery and household appliances, would only last until the end of this year.

The ban has led to shortages of tyres as well as spices such as turmeric, a key ingredient in local cuisine.

The European Union said last week that the restrictions were having a negative impact on Sri Lankan and European businesses, and on foreign direct investment.

"Such measures impair Sri Lanka's efforts to become a regional hub and negatively impact Sri Lankan exports," the EU said in a statement.

"(A) prolonged import ban is not in line with World Trade Organization regulations."

But central bank governor W. D. Lakshman said the EU's comments were "an overreaction".

"At a time when we are trying to deal with a balance of payments problem, even WTO rules allow us to do certain things to meet the... challenge."

Sri Lanka's imports fell to $13.1 billion in January-October from $16.4 billion in the corresponding period last year.

The economy contracted by an unprecedented 1.7 percent in the first quarter of this year, after a 2.3 percent economic expansion last year.

Global ratings agency Moody's downgraded Sri Lanka's sovereign credit rating in September, saying the island nation could struggle to service its huge foreign debt.

aj/grk/mtp

Sri Lanka Thursday extended a ban on non-essential imports such as vehicles as it battles a foreign currency crisis, despite EU claims it violates international trade regulations.

Sri Lanka Thursday extended a ban on non-essential imports such as vehicles as it battles a foreign currency crisis, despite EU claims it violates international trade regulations. The ban was announced by the finance ministry in March as the local currency plunged and the economy reeled from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic and last year's Easter Sunday bombings. "The restrictions are primarily because of the difficult situation we are in (regarding balance of payments)," the central bank's economic research director Chandranath Amarasekara said. "The import ban on high-value items like vehicles and agricultural produce will be extended for another year to save foreign exchange as well as to encourage local agriculture." The government had said that the prohibition, which also covers spare parts, machinery and household appliances, would only last until the end of this year. The ban has led to shortages of tyres as well as spices such as turmeric, a key ingredient in local cuisine. The European Union said last week that the restrictions were having a negative impact on Sri Lankan and European businesses, and on foreign direct investment. "Such measures impair Sri Lanka's efforts to become a regional hub and negatively impact Sri Lankan exports," the EU said in a statement. "(A) prolonged import ban is not in line with World Trade Organization regulations." But central bank governor W. D. Lakshman said the EU's comments were "an overreaction". "At a time when we are trying to deal with a balance of payments problem, even WTO rules allow us to do certain things to meet the... challenge." Sri Lanka's imports fell to $13.1 billion in January-October from $16.4 billion in the corresponding period last year. The economy contracted by an unprecedented 1.7 percent in the first quarter of this year, after a 2.3 percent economic expansion last year. Global ratings agency Moody's downgraded Sri Lanka's sovereign credit rating in September, saying the island nation could struggle to service its huge foreign debt. aj/grk/mtp

Cash-strapped Sri Lanka extends import ban despite EU protest

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

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

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

Towards a gender-equal world: A mission for all

France's foreign minister accused Britain on Wednesday of "dragging its feet" in last-ditch Brexit negotiations and said Paris would not yield on the issue of fisheries, one of three key issues blocking a deal.

Both the UK and France are still at loggerheads and need a trade deal to govern ties or risk economic chaos. Fishing has been one of the most politically explosive issues blocking an agreement.

"The outcome is uncertain. British overtures remain insufficient on the most sensitive matters," Jean-Yves Le Drian told a parliamentary hearing.

"At this time, Britain is dragging its feet on secondary matters and is playing with the calendar. I say this to our British friends, we won't let the calendar take priority over the content of the accord."

Jean-Yves Le Drian said the two sides remained far apart on fishing rights, a totemic issue for both Britain and France.

French fishermen who depend on bountiful UK waters fear for their livelihoods in the post-Brexit&nbsp;endgame, but so might their British counterparts who land their catch at the Brittany port of Roscoff for the European market.

The other main sticking points are ensuring fair play for companies, including on state aid, and finding ways to settle future disputes.

"When we play football even away from home you have to play to the same rules and respect the rules. Otherwise it's another sport. You can't play cricket on a football pitch," Le Drian said.

Britain and the EU are in a last-ditch effort to agree terms to keep trade flowing without tariffs or quotas from the start of 2021, after London's current standstill transition out of the 27-nation bloc ends.

London has been resisting signing up to the EU's vision of a post-Brexit&nbsp;"level playing field", with trade penalties if either side diverges from agreed standards.

Johnson has also introduced a draft law to govern the UK internal market that his own government admits would breach promises made in Britain's EU withdrawal treaty.

This has undermined Brussels' trust in Britain, and talks have now blown past several unofficial deadlines, leaving only a narrow window for agreement before the end of the year.

European Commission vice-president Maros Sefkovic said he hoped to hold a meeting with British minister Michael Gove and their joint committee on implementing the withdrawal deal in the coming days.

Brussels is keen to see movement from London in implementing border controls between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, which will remain in the EU single market despite being a part of the UK. Britain, with rich fishing waters, favours annual catch negotiations but the EU is seeking a longer-term perspective for its fishing industry.

Echoing comments made by European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen to the European Parliament on Wednesday, Le Drian said the EU was ready for all scenarios including a no-deal Brexit.

"It's up to the British to come out of tactical postures and make the necessary gestures. Sometimes it's better to have no deal than a bad deal," he said.

France's foreign minister accused Britain on Wednesday of "dragging its feet" in last-ditch Brexit negotiations and said Paris would not yield on the issue of fisheries, one of three key issues blocking a deal.

France's foreign minister accused Britain on Wednesday of "dragging its feet" in last-ditch Brexit negotiations and said Paris would not yield on the issue of fisheries, one of three key issues blocking a deal. Both the UK and France are still at loggerheads and need a trade deal to govern ties or risk economic chaos. Fishing has been one of the most politically explosive issues blocking an agreement. "The outcome is uncertain. British overtures remain insufficient on the most sensitive matters," Jean-Yves Le Drian told a parliamentary hearing. "At this time, Britain is dragging its feet on secondary matters and is playing with the calendar. I say this to our British friends, we won't let the calendar take priority over the content of the accord." Jean-Yves Le Drian said the two sides remained far apart on fishing rights, a totemic issue for both Britain and France. French fishermen who depend on bountiful UK waters fear for their livelihoods in the post-Brexit endgame, but so might their British counterparts who land their catch at the Brittany port of Roscoff for the European market. The other main sticking points are ensuring fair play for companies, including on state aid, and finding ways to settle future disputes. "When we play football even away from home you have to play to the same rules and respect the rules. Otherwise it's another sport. You can't play cricket on a football pitch," Le Drian said. Britain and the EU are in a last-ditch effort to agree terms to keep trade flowing without tariffs or quotas from the start of 2021, after London's current standstill transition out of the 27-nation bloc ends. London has been resisting signing up to the EU's vision of a post-Brexit "level playing field", with trade penalties if either side diverges from agreed standards. Johnson has also introduced a draft law to govern the UK internal market that his own government admits would breach promises made in Britain's EU withdrawal treaty. This has undermined Brussels' trust in Britain, and talks have now blown past several unofficial deadlines, leaving only a narrow window for agreement before the end of the year. European Commission vice-president Maros Sefkovic said he hoped to hold a meeting with British minister Michael Gove and their joint committee on implementing the withdrawal deal in the coming days. Brussels is keen to see movement from London in implementing border controls between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, which will remain in the EU single market despite being a part of the UK. Britain, with rich fishing waters, favours annual catch negotiations but the EU is seeking a longer-term perspective for its fishing industry. Echoing comments made by European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen to the European Parliament on Wednesday, Le Drian said the EU was ready for all scenarios including a no-deal Brexit. "It's up to the British to come out of tactical postures and make the necessary gestures. Sometimes it's better to have no deal than a bad deal," he said.

Britain 'dragging its feet' in Brexit talks, says France's foreign minister

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