On January 29, 2020, the European Parliament approved the withdrawal agreement between the United Kingdom and the European Union. This marks the beginning of a new chapter for both the UK and the EU, as Brexit negotiations have been ongoing for several years.

The approval of the withdrawal agreement by the European Parliament was the final step in the process, following the UK parliament’s approval of the deal in December 2019. The agreement sets out the terms of the UK’s departure from the EU and outlines the future relationship between the two parties.

One of the key components of the withdrawal agreement is the transition period, during which the UK will continue to follow EU rules and regulations until December 31, 2020. This period will allow both parties to negotiate a new trade deal and establish a framework for their future relationship.

The agreement also addresses issues such as citizens’ rights, the UK’s financial obligations to the EU, and the status of Northern Ireland. The Northern Ireland protocol, in particular, has been a contentious issue throughout the negotiations. Under the agreement, Northern Ireland will remain aligned with EU regulations to avoid a hard border with the Republic of Ireland, but will also be part of the UK’s customs territory.

The approval of the withdrawal agreement by the European Parliament came after a lively debate in the chamber. Members of Parliament from both the UK and other EU member states expressed their opinions on the deal, with some calling it a historic moment while others voiced concerns about its impact on the future of the EU.

With the approval of the withdrawal agreement, the UK is set to officially leave the EU on January 31, 2020. This will be followed by the transition period, during which both parties will work to negotiate a new trade deal and establish their future relationship.

Overall, the approval of the withdrawal agreement by the European Parliament is a significant milestone in the Brexit process. While it marks the end of one chapter, it also opens the door for new negotiations and opportunities for both the UK and the EU.