Brussels, 29/06/2016 (Agence Europe) – On Tuesday 29 June, the European Council invited the Council of the EU to seek a solution, “as soon as possible”, that addresses the concerns expressed in the debate preceding the referendum held in the Netherlands in April on the association agreement with Ukraine. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte reported to his counterparts on the outcome of the referendum which saw 64% of those taking part reject the association agreement (see EUROPE 11527).
“We have called on the Council to find a solution that acknowledges the doubts expressed in the Netherlands and that is acceptable to the other countries, a solution that does not involve a series of ratifications”, said German Chancellor Angela Merkel at her press conference.
This could, however, be a solution that is difficult to deliver. “For me, what is important is to find a legally binding solution that addresses the concerns raised during the debate. If we are unable to do that, we will not sign the agreement”, warned Rutte, speaking to the press. “Clearly, we will try to find a solution. It will be difficult. The chances of success are slim”, he went on. He made clear that, if the Netherlands did not ratify the agreement, the other 27 member states could go ahead and “renegotiate something that the Netherlands would not be part of”. However, such a course of action is not, he said, what those who voted against the association agreement with Ukraine expect.
All the member states, with the exception of the Netherlands, have already ratified the association agreement. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant with Aminata Niang)