Thread by @AlbertoNardelli

EU27 draft EUCO conclusions have 5 points/paragraphs.

The first point reaffirms the Withdrawal Agreement & the Political Declaration. "The Union stands by this agreement and intends to proceed with its ratification. It is not open for renegotiation."

Pars 2, 3, 4, 5 are in square brackets, meaning haven't been agreed yet.

Par 2: EU27 reiterates wish for "as close as possible a partnership with UK..." "stands ready to embark on prep immediately after signature of WA to ensure negotiations can start asap after UK withdrawal

Pars 3 underlines that "backstop does not represent a desirable outcome for the Union. The backstop is only intended as an insurance policy to prevent a hard border on the island of Ireland...

Par 3. cont. would state that it is the EU's "firm determination" to work speedily on a subsequent agreement that establishes by 31 December 2020 alternative arrangements, so that the backstop will not be triggered

Par 4. if backdrop has to be used, would apply only temporarily unless & until superseded by a subsequent agreement. EU would use best endeavours to negotiate & conclude a subsequent agreement rapidly. Backstop only in place for a short period, as long as strictly necessary

Par 5 would state EU prepared to examine further assurances, but these will not change or contradict withdrawal agreement.

To repeat: pars 2, 3, 4, 5 in square brackets, meaning not approved yet. Understand 5 unlikely at this stage: UK needs to spell out what assurances it seeks

In summary: EU27 will reaffirm, in very simple & clear English, points they have made dozens of times before about backstop (it's an insurance policy they don't even want to use), and will make crystal clear that the withdrawal agreement cannot be change nor contradicted