Minister Sveinsson meets with UK's Minister for Europe

Foreign minister Gunnar Bragi Sveinsson met yesterday with UK's Minister for Europe, David Lidington. Minister Sveinsson explained the Icelandic Government's decision to put further accession negotiations with the European Union on hold, and what that entails.  Mr. Lidington spoke of the current dialogue in the UK regarding the country's future relationship with the EU and the Government stand on the matter. The UK has emphasized that certain changes should take place within the EU so that it's fundamental values can be better achieved, especially with regards to increasing competitiveness.

 

The ministers discussed the envisaged free trade negotiations between the EU and the United States, as well as bilateral cooperation between Iceland and the UK. Minister Sveinsson stated the Icelandic Government's point of view in the mackerel dispute, and emphasized Iceland´s will to continue negotiations immediately. He stressed that possible EU sanctions towards Iceland would only stand in the way of parties reaching an agreement.