EU deepens concerns over Irish borders and trade after leaving the UK = diplomatic sources

[Brussels 5th Reuters]-The European Union (EU) is deeply concerned about the post-EU Irish border and the stance of future trade agreements as shown by British Prime Minister Johnson It was revealed.

According to diplomat and senior government officials, the EU's chief negotiator Barnier on the EU's departure (Brexit) negotiations on the 4th explained the situation to the representatives of EU member states, and the Irish border issue is at issue in the proposed withdrawal agreement. The solution over the "backstop (safety)" revealed that the UK side did not present a specific alternative.

The Irish government and the EU expressed concern that reviving a hard border (physical border) between Ireland and British Northern Ireland would hamper the peace agreement "Belfast Agreement" in the Northern Ireland conflict Yes.

One diplomat said, “The deadline for the withdrawal is imminent, but the EU continues to be willing to proceed with constructive discussions to prevent the hard-border resurgence of Ireland, respect the Belfast Agreement, protect the common market, etc. "

According to Barnier negotiator, Prime Minister Johnson over the trade has clarified his desire to conclude a minimum free trade agreement with the EU. EU concerns are that the UK government will cease its legal commitment to basic guidelines such as environmental standards, labor laws and regulations, and government assistance, so that the UK can export cheap products to the EU market. become.

Another diplomat pointed out that Mr. Barnier's explanation has raised “strong concerns about damaging the minimum necessary free trade agreement with the UK and fair competition conditions”. “There is a possibility that the concept that Britain will become 'Singapore on the Thames” by deregulation may be realized. ”

Another diplomat said that Prime Minister Johnson was optimistic that a compromise could be drawn at the EU summit that will take place on October 17-18, “British is a miracle solution at the EU summit. It seems to have an unrealistic idea of ​​heading. "