News
‘New momentum needed in trade talks’
New momentum is needed in UK-EU negotiations on their future relationship, both sides have said after high-level crunch talks.
Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen spoke via video link after both sides said no major progress had been made towards a trade deal this year.
They said they would “work hard” to deliver a relationship and ratify a deal before the end of 2020.
Mrs. von der Leyen said they “agreed to deliver the best deal” for citizens.
The European Union (EU) also noted the UK’s decision not to extend the transition period, which ends in December.
In a joint statement issued after Monday’s meeting via video conference call, the UK and EU “welcomed the constructive discussions on the future relationship that had taken place”.
“The parties agreed nevertheless that new momentum was required,” it said.
They have agreed to intensify talks in July, and to find an “early understanding on the principles” underlying any deal.
The UK government has said the talks in July will involve a mix of formal negotiating rounds and smaller group meetings in London and Brussels, if coronavirus guidelines allow.
European Council President Charles Michel, who joined Mrs. von der Leyen on the call along with European Parliament President David-Maria Sassoli, said a “broad and ambitious agreement” was “in our mutual interest”.
During the call, the Prime Minister (PM) had been expected to urge “renewed energy” to reach a trade deal “by the end of the summer”, ahead of the end of the transition period in December.
Downing Street said he would reiterate that the UK’s ambition is for a high quality free trade agreement consistent with others the EU have agreed.
He was also due to make clear that the UK is ready to start trading on World Trade Organisation rules from January1 if a deal cannot be reached.
Earlier, the prime minister’s spokesman said the meeting was seen as a moment to “push negotiations forward” and Mr Johnson welcomed the fact that the EU had agreed to an “intensified timetable” of weekly talks throughout July.
MEP Nathalie Loiseau told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “We are ready either for an agreement or for a no-deal and we are getting prepared more actively to a no-deal considering the circumstances. -BBC
Government has inaugurated a Technical Committee to drive the implementation of the Accra Marine Drive Tourism Investment Project, a key initiative aimed at transforming the capital’s waterfront into a world-class tourism and commercial hub.
Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, described the move as a critical step to accelerate progress, stressing the need for efficiency, collaboration, and accountability.
The Committee, chaired by Deputy Minister Yussif Issaka Jajah, will coordinate stakeholders, address bottlenecks, and ensure timely delivery of the project.
The initiative is expected to boost tourism, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth, reinforcing Ghana’s commitment to sustainable development.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has stepped up its fire safety education efforts in Suhum Municipality and Abetifi Odwenease as part of ongoing campaigns to prevent fire outbreaks and improve emergency readiness.
In Suhum, fire officers engaged traders and customers, educating them on handling LPG leakages, proper use of fire extinguishers, and general shop safety practices. Meanwhile, the Kwahu East Command extended outreach in Abetifi Odwenease, visiting homes, drinking spots, construction sites, and stores to promote safe handling of flammable materials, proper electrical usage, and correct gas cylinder placement.
Practical demonstrations on fire extinguisher use were conducted, and residents were encouraged to adopt good housekeeping habits and proactive safety measures to reduce fire risks and protect lives and property.
