Came home to Brussels for a few days. This is what I learnt (thread):
1. Loss of momentum on both sides of the Channel: Brexit (still) not a priority for EU27 & Brexit fatigue in the UK. Still, momentum may pick up once talks on future partnership begin (bit.ly/2JUXK8P)
2. Main concern: Not clear whether withdrawal agreement will be ratified by October (people v. split) – Irish border main sticking point. But discussions on customs arrangement fairly constructive during last round of negotiations.
3. Trust levels at a low: ''we hear your politicians, we read your newspapers; government line is not ‘cutting through the noise''
4. But thinking creatively & constructively about future partnership should help rebuild trust; plus, TF50 and UK negotiators want talks to succeed.
5. When thinking about the future deal, it's important to understand where UK *and* the EU27 are heading (both will look different in 10 yrs). Currently lots of focus on what 'UK wants' but less on future of EU. Cd be a timing issue (wait until after June 2019 EP elections?)
[6. Speaking of, some in Brussels believe that more Europe is the only solution to ‘EU disaffection’; but member states do not all share this vision]
7. Importance of ‘speaking European’: avoid UK-EU exceptionalism - instead, pitch future deal as a continent-wide model for EU & neighbours (oh - and know your EU regulations).
8. Finally, and totally unrelated: distinct Southern European vibe to Brussels. Even Rue de la Loi looks pretty in the sunshine.
