European Commission - Statement
EU-UK Statement following the High Level Meeting on 15 June
Brussels, 15 June 2020
Prime Minister Boris Johnson met the President of the European Council Charles Michel, the President
of the European Commission, Ursula
von der Leyen, and the President of the European Parliament,
David Sassoli, on 15 June by videoconference to take stock of progress with the aim of agreeing
actions to move forward in negotiations on the future relationship.
The Parties noted the UK's decision not to request any extension to the transition period. The
transition period will therefore end on 31 December 2020, in line with the provisions of the
Withdrawal Agreement.
The Parties welcomed the constructive discussions on the future relationship that had taken place
under the leadership of Chief Negotiators David Frost and Michel Barnier, allowing both sides to
clarify and further understand positions. They noted that four rounds had been completed and texts
exchanged despite the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Parties agreed nevertheless that new momentum was required. They supported the plans agreed
by Chief Negotiators to intensify the talks in July and to create the most conducive conditions for
concluding and ratifying a deal before the end of 2020. This should include, if possible, finding an
early understanding on the principles underlying any agreement.
The Parties underlined their intention to work hard to deliver a relationship, which would work in the
interests of the citizens of the Union and of the United Kingdom. They also confirmed their
commitment to the full and timely implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement.
STATEMENT/20/1067
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