France: Britain should negotiate Brexit as soon as possible

(Baonghean.vn) - On July 21, French President Francois Hollande agreed to give British Prime Minister Theresa May time to "prepare" for negotiations on Britain's exit from the European Union, but on the condition that this would happen "as soon as possible."

President Francois Hollande welcomed British Prime Minister Theresa May at the Elysée Palace on July 21. Photo: Le Monde

In a joint press conference with Mrs. Theresa, Mr. Hollande declared:

“The United Kingdom has decided to leave the European Union. It is their decision, their responsibility and we respect that decision. We want the UK to give us a deadline as soon as possible or a way to open a negotiation… There will be no talks or pre-negotiations before the Brexit negotiations. But the UK can prepare for the negotiations. And I repeat that it is in the common interest of Europe, the UK and our common economy that this happens as soon as possible.”

Mr Hollande also stressed that Britain must choose between the single market and free operation or another status.

The two leaders held their first joint press conference since Theresa May took office. Photo: Le Monde

In contrast to the French President, on the evening of July 20, German Chancellor Angela Merkel made a different proposal. After a meeting with Theresa May, Merkel gave Britain a deadline of the end of the year on Brexit. Merkel said that Britain's request to leave when it has a clear negotiating ability is in everyone's interest. According to Merkel, "Good preparation is important, so we will also wait until this time."

For her part, Prime Minister Theresa May said the British government would keep its promise on this issue and would have "constructive" discussions with Mr. Hollande.

During the press conference, Mr. Hollande also thanked the British government for its “message of solidarity” after the attack in Nice that killed 84 people. President Hollande once again emphasized the special role of the UK and France in defense and diplomacy./.

Chu Thanh

(According to Le Monde)