EU Representative Concludes First Future Relations Negotiation with UK, "Serious Differences Remain"

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] Michel Barnier, the European Union (EU) representative in charge of Brexit, stated on the 5th (local time) that there are serious differences of opinion between the two sides regarding future relationship negotiations with the United Kingdom. This was expressed after the first negotiation following Brexit (the UK's withdrawal from the EU), indicating that future negotiations are expected to be difficult.

According to the daily Guardian and others, after concluding the first round of future relationship negotiations with the UK, which lasted four days until that day, Barnier told reporters, "There are many differences of opinion. And these are very serious differences." He added that the disagreements include ensuring a "level playing field," fisheries, and supervision issues regarding the future relationship.

The opposing views between the two sides had been anticipated beforehand. The EU's position is that if the UK wants the best trade agreement, it must comply with EU standards to ensure fair competition, ranging from subsidies to environmental standards. However, the UK is resisting accepting EU regulations to conclude the trade agreement.

Barnier also expressed concern that the UK does not want to accept rulings from the EU's highest courts, the European Court of Justice (ECJ) and the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). He added that the UK has also refused to sign the European Convention on Human Rights. Furthermore, he explained that while the UK seeks a series of individual agreements, the EU wants a single comprehensive agreement.

Barnier emphasized, "An agreement still seems possible, but it will only be possible with mutual respect and without breaking previous agreements." He added that negotiations will be difficult because UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson refused to extend the negotiation deadline set for December 31 of this year.

The two sides will proceed with up to the fifth round of negotiations before the EU-UK summit scheduled for June. Following the first negotiation, the second round will begin on the 18th of this month in London, UK.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.