Finland’s foreign minister has said a no-deal Brexit would be “very harmful” for both the UK and European economies. Pekka Haavisto said he hoped the Withdrawal Agreement brokered by Theresa May will be approved before the leave date of October 31 as it would make “no sense” to reopen negotiations. The minister spoke as Finland prepares to assume the six-month presidency of the Council of the European Union on Monday. The Council of the European Union negotiates and adopts EU laws, coordinates policy and adopts the EU budget. Finland’s presidency, taking over from Romania, will see a focus on EU enlargement, social cohesion and tackling climate change.

Source: Irish Examiner June 30, 2019 01:41 UTC