Michel says UK must respect the agreements it has made

Discussions on the implementation of the EU’s agreements with the UK will take place in London today (9 June). Over the past few days tensions have been rising with provocative editorials from Lord David Frost, the UK’s lead on EU/UK relations.

In the European Parliament this morning, Charles Michel, president of the European Council, called on the UK to respect the agreements it had entered into, saying “pacta sunt servanda” - agreements must be kept - one of the most basic principles of international law. 

The UK was added to the agenda of European Council that met on 24-25 May. In the conclusions, the 27 heads of government called on the UK to fully implement the Withdrawal, and Trade and Co-operation Agreements. The leaders also called on the UK to respect the principle of non-discrimination among states in its dealing with EU states, sending out a clear message of unity. 

Rebuffing Lord Frost’s accusation that the EU was guilty of “legal purism” Michel said:  “We believe deeply in the rule of law, ‘pacta sunt servanda’ when agreements are reached, they must be implemented in good faith.”

Michel reiterated his solidarity with Ireland and the EU’s desire to protect the single market and the Good Friday Agreement.

Share this article: