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The Council examines situation in Europe after UK's referendum on withdrawal from EU

BC, Riga, 30.06.2016.Print version
At the European Council meeting on 28-29 June in Brussels, which was also attended by Prime Minister of Latvia, Maris Kucinskis, the EU leaders assessed the situation in Europe after the UK's referendum where the majority of the population expressed a desire to see the United Kingdom outside the EU, reported BC governmental press service.

Photo: valitsus.ee

The EU leaders expressed their regret over the results of the referendum, stating that considerable effort is needed to strengthen the EU in the future, as well as to find the best model for further cooperation between the EU and the United Kingdom.

 

It is likely that the agreement between 27 EU countries and the United Kingdom will be reached in favour of one of the six current models, which exist between the EU and countries outside this Union. It is also possible that the negotiations will result in a completely new model between the EU and the UK.

 

During the European Council, M. Kucinskis emphasized that the Latvian government will do its utmost to defend its national interests, interests of Latvia's nationals residing in the United Kingdom and common interests of the EU Member States. The Prime Minister reiterated that the UK is now home for several thousands of Latvia's nationals and the fate of these people is important for the country.

 

Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, D.Cameron confirmed to M. Kucinskis that he will stand up for security of the citizens of Latvia, Poland and Romania residing in the United Kingdom, and will not tolerate their discrimination.

 

Latvia will continue to support the progress made in the EU integration process, will emphasize the unity and solidarity of the European Union. The main focus of further discussions will be on events and ideas, which restore public support and confidence of citizens in the EU, contribute to the EU's security, as well as socio-economic development and global competitiveness.

 

President of Lithuania Dalia Grybauskaite also attended an informal meeting of 27 EU heads of state or government which focused on preparations for the United Kingdom’s withdrawal from the EU. European leaders also made a joint statement on the future of the EU.

 

The President emphasized that the United Kingdom, just like any other country, had to ensure that people living in its territory were protected against any racist attacks, violence and xenophobia. Fundamental human rights must be defended regardless of whether a country is a member of the European Union. UN and other international conventions apply to all.

 

During yesterday’s EU summit meeting, the British Prime Minister assured that violence against foreign nationals and incitement of hatred would not be tolerated.

 

In the joint statement by 27 EU member states, leaders have stressed that countries remain united and will further make a joint effort to increase the security and well-being of European people. EU heads of state or government will also seek to preserve a close partnership with the United Kingdom and ensure that a new agreement on the relationship with Britain is based on mutual rights and obligations.

 

The President underlined that the UK’s continued access to the EU’s single market was inseparable from four fundamental freedoms – free movement of persons, goods, services, and capital.

 

European leaders also agreed that negotiations with the United Kingdom would start only after it officially announced its intention to leave the EU. Both sides must prepare for that; however, these decisions must not be delayed. As long as the United Kingdom is a member of the Community, European Union law and all obligations associated with it apply to Britain.

27 EU heads of state or government will discuss how to deal with issues of importance to European people more effectively and to jointly build the future of the EU at a summit due to be held in Bratislava in September.






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