Foreign Minister Urmas Reinsalu today attended the meeting of the General Affairs Council of the European Union, were the EU’s chief negotiator Michel Barnier presented an update on the state of play of Brexit negotiations.
“In light of recent news, I can see a positive shift. We must make every effort to seize the opportunity for achieving a Brexit deal. The price tag of a no-deal Brexit would be substantial for us all and no one would gain from the ensuing confusion,” Urmas Reinsalu said.
At the ministerial discussions, he recognised the work of Michel Barnier and expressed Estonia’s continued support for the European Commission’s efforts to move the talks forward. “We stand in solidarity with Ireland, and the deal must guarantee an acceptable solution to the Irish border. The Brexit agreement must also respect the integrity of the European Union internal market,” Reinsalu said.
He stressed that it was important to achieve clarity as soon as possible. “Our citizens and enterprises are awaiting this, and their interests have been a priority throughout the negotiations. This week is crucial for achieving a Brexit with a deal. If a solution is not found at the European Council, we must subsequently still continue our efforts,” the Foreign Minister added.
The European Council is held on 17 and 18 October in Brussels.
Additional information:
Armo Vask
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Communication Department
[email protected]
+372 637 7618
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