国际英语资讯:EU to discuss crucial issues in complex Brexit talks_时事

国际英语资讯:EU to discuss crucial issues in complex Brexit talks

BRUSSELS, April 29 -- The European Union leaders endorsed a set of "divorce" terms for Britain at a summit in Brussels on Saturday, rejoicing in a show of unity.

While the agreement on the guidelines, or "red lines", for the upcoming Brexit talks has been reached, the bloc will face crucial issues in the coming negotiations.

"Unity in action," European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker declared on Saturday as he announced the 27 EU governments adopted the negotiating strategy.

"Guidelines adopted unanimously. EU27 firm and fair political mandate for the Brexit talks is ready," European Council President Donald Tusk tweeted while EU leaders burst into applause when the guidelines were waved through.

Those will bind Michel Barnier, former EU commissioner and the EU's chief Brexit negotiator, to seek an agreement that secures the rights of 3 million EU expats living in Britain and ensure London pays tens of billions of euros Brussels thinks it will be owed.

One of the thorniest issues is the size of the divorce bill with EU officials estimating at 60 billion euros (65 billion U.S. dollars) because of EU budget rules. British politicians have said the government will not pay a sum of that size.

Ireland is another potential obstacle to any deal. Britain will be reminded in the coming weeks to abide by the terms of the 1998 Good Friday Agreement.

EU leaders have also reiterated that they will rule out discussing the free trade deal May wants until they see what has been called "sufficient progress" on agreeing those key withdrawal terms.