MEPs debate Brexit and relations with China following EU spring summit

March 28, 2019 by European Union Leave a Comment

(Hanson Lu, Unsplash)

This article is brought to you in association with the European Parliament.

Recent Brexit developments dominated yesterday’s discussion, with most speakers highlighting that preserving the rights of UK and EU27 citizens is a priority.

In the plenary debate with European Council President Donald Tusk and Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker, most of the EP group leaders praised the decisions taken by EU heads of state or government in their March 21-22 summit to avoid a disastrous no-deal Brexit scenario. They expressed solidarity with pro-EU UK movements and criticised the UK government for its handling of the situation since Article 50 was activated. Relations with China and the summit’s conclusions on the economy were also a key concern, resulting in calls for strong action at the upcoming EU-China summit, as well as in overall economic policy, to strengthen European values and companies alike. Opening statements by Donald TUSK, President of the European Council and by Jean-Claude JUNCKER, President of the EC MEPs debate, first round – to view video replays of statements by specific speakers, click on a name. Closing statements by Michel BARNIER, European Commission Chief Negotiator for Article 50, Jyrki KATAINEN, Vice-President of the EC and Donald TUSK, President of the European Council

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