General Affairs Council (Art. 50), 22/05/2017 - Main results
Brexit negotiations can start
The Council, meeting in an EU27 format, adopted a decision authorising the beginning of talks with the UK following the notification of its intention to leave the EU. The Commission was nominated as the EU negotiator.
"From today the Commission has a mandate to start talks with the UK. We will focus first on providing clarity for all those affected by the Brexit decision and ensuring a smooth 'separation'. That is our top priority. We are ready, we are united and we approach these negotiations with the best will and with the clear aim of reaching a deal."
Louis Grech i, Deputy Prime Minister of Malta and President of the Council
Council decision authorising the opening of negotiations with the UK
Negotiating directives
Ministers adopted a first set of negotiating directives that sets the EU position for the first phase of the negotiations. The text prioritises issues that have been identified as necessary for an orderly withdrawal of the UK, including among others citizens' rights, the financial settlement and the situation of Ireland.
Brexit: Negotiating directives - 22 May
European Council (art50)
Ministers began preparations for the European Council (Art.50) of June 2017 by looking at an annotated draft agenda.
European Council, 22-23/06/2017
Working party
A dedicated working party with a permanent chair was created to assist the Council and Coreper (Committee of Permanent Representatives) on all matters related to the UK withdrawal from the EU. This working group will always meet in an EU27 format.
Council decision to create a dedicated working party on Article 50 TEU
Transparency during negotiations
The documents adopted by the Council allow the beginning of negotiations with the UK which will be conducted respecting the principles for transparency endorsed last week by the Coreper.
Guiding principles for transparency in Brexit negotiations
Meeting information
Meeting n°3542
Brussels
12/05/2017
10:00
Preparatory documents
Indicative programme, General Affairs Council, 22 May 2017
Provisional agenda, General Affairs Council, 22 May 2017
Outcome documents
Outcome of the Council meeting
List of participants, GAC 22.5.2017
Press releases
Council (Art 50) authorises the start of Brexit talks and adopts negotiating directives
22/05/2017, 13:35
Press information
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