Donald Tusk reported that EU leaders formally adopted the joint stance on future trade relations with Britain after the country's exit from the bloc.
An agreement has also been reached on the transition period limited to 21 months to help companies adapt after Brexit which will start in March 2019: European citizens who arrive in the UK during the transition will have the same rights as those who have arrived before Brexit. London will not have a say in any decision, it will have to respect EU obligations but it will also enjoy the resulting benefits, including the internal market.
The Irish question remains a knot to be dissolved. The discussions will continue over the next few days to arrive at a practical solution that works to avoid a harsh border between Ireland and Northern Ireland.