EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier met with UK officials in Brussels, seeking progress on the contentious Irish border backstop and potential adjustments to avoid a no-deal Brexit. The talks occurred as both sides face a March 29 deadline for Britain's departure from the EU.
Barnier indicated the EU might accept a brief technical delay to allow UK Parliament to ratify a final agreement, though EU leaders reiterated the withdrawal deal would not be reopened. The discussion focused on resolving disputes over the backstop, a key obstacle for pro-Brexit lawmakers.
UK Attorney General Geoffrey Cox's participation highlighted his critical role in assessing the legal implications of the agreement. His previous negative legal opinion contributed to Prime Minister Theresa May's failed attempt to secure parliamentary approval in January.
Despite recent setbacks, EU sources suggested negotiations remained focused on crafting supplementary documents to address UK concerns. Some hardline Brexit supporters within May's Conservative Party have softened demands, though they continue pushing for time limits on the backstop arrangement.
The March 29 deadline follows Britain's 2017 invocation of Article 50, initiating a two-year exit process. Both sides aim to prevent a chaotic no-deal scenario, with May's government seeking parliamentary approval for any delay beyond the current March 12 deadline.
