The author describes the EU's chief Brexit negotiator's speech as instructive and seeking to prepare the audience for a shock, while also demonstrating his determination for the impending negotiations. The author adds that this is typical of Barnier’s philosophy based on trust and frankness. More concretely, Barnier reiterated that the exit deal is his priority, stating that negotiations on any future trade deal can wait. He was similarly categorical in hammering home the message that the UK can’t be ‘half in and half out’ and criticizing what he called a lack of realism among his British counterparts.

The article in French: Barnier prévient qu'un Brexit indolore est impossible

 

 

Sourcing and translation by European Movement International (Brussels)