Ursula der Leyen stresses that negotiations have been difficult, but that a “fair and balanced settlement” with the UK is now being agreed upon.
– Today I am satisfied and frankly relieved, she says at a press conference, describing the divorce as “a beautiful sadness.”
The parties have, among other things, reached a transitional agreement on fishing in UK waters, spanning more than five and a half years. This particular issue was a point at which London and Brussels had a particular difficulty in agreeing.
EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier was also present at the press conference, noting that it was sad that Britain was now leaving in earnest. But he also expressed gratitude that the agreement is now ready.
From January, there will be real changes for both citizens and businesses, and this is the result of Brexit, says Barnier.
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Johnson: ‘Taking back control’
Remarkably pleased, Boris Johnson announced in his private press conference that under this agreement, the United Kingdom entered into its largest-ever trade agreement.
– We have regained control of our laws and our destiny, says the Prime Minister.
Party leader Keir Starmer told Reuters on Christmas Eve that Labor would vote in favor of the deal.
Prime Minister Stefan Lofven said in a statement that the agreement was an “important basis for a continuing relationship with the United Kingdom”. Lofven believes that a joint agreement means both parties are “better equipped”, but notes that he “will of course note that the UK is now leaving the EU.
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