Ebun Francis with agency report || The European Union has come up with a tentative strategy for Brexit negotiations, following Great Britains triggering of the Brexit process on Wednesday.
According to the draft guidelines issued by the EU Council President, Donald Tusk, talk on the trade deal could begin once sufficient progress is made on the on separation settlement with the United Kingdom.
The draft guidelines which argue for a “phased approach” in talks will be sent to the 27 member states for approval. They will set the tone for two years of negotiations.
Speaking at a news conference in Malta on Friday, Mr Tusk made clear that “starting parallel talks on all issues at the same time as suggested by some in the UK will not happen”.
“Only once we have achieved sufficient progress on the withdrawal can we discuss the framework for our future relationship,” he said.
He added that while the talks would be “difficult, complex and sometimes even confrontational”, the EU would not “pursue a punitive approach.
UK Prime Minister Theresa May formally triggered the Brexit process by sending the Article 50 notification letter to Mr Tusk on Wednesday.
The duo will meet in London ahead of an EU summit on Brexit, which will not include her, on 29 April.