‘Received promising signals from Irish PM’: European Council President Donald Tusk

Brussels: European Council President Donald Tusk on Friday said that he received “promising signals” from Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar that a Brexit deal was still possible. Tusk’s remark comes after British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Varadkar held “detailed and constructive” talks for more than two hours on Thursday, with the latter saying the “very positive” meeting meant negotiations could resume in Brussels, the BBC reported.

Following the meeting, Varadkar told reporters that the talks were at a “very sensitive stage” but he was now “convinced” the UK wanted a deal, adding: “I do see a pathway towards an agreement in the coming weeks.”

Speaking on a visit to Cyprus, Tusk said on Friday that the UK had not “come forward with a workable, realistic proposal”, but added he had received “positive signals” from Varadkar that a deal was still possible.

“Of course there is no guarantee of success and time is practically up but even the slightest chance must be used. “A no-deal Brexit will never be the choice of the EU,” he added.

However, there were, he said, still issues over “consent and democracy” and ensuring there is no customs border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. (IANS)

Also Read: ‘EU Open but Unconvinced with Johnson’s Brexit plans’: Donald Tusk

Also Watch: Watch | Unique Love Story of a Priest and Mother Nature