No trade agreement likely with UK within 2 years of Brexit: Dutch advice council

The Dutch advisory council for international affairs AIV expects that a trade agreement with the United Kingdom will not be possible within the first two years of the Brexit. In a recommendation to the yet-to-be-formed new Dutch government, the council advocates for a transitional period after the UK's official departure from the European Union, ANP reports.

The EU must stand together and ust not allow the British to play the EU countries off against each other, the AIV writes. And the new government must focus on a comprehensive free trade agreement with the British. But in the mean time, while no trade agreement is in place, the government must also find ways to minimize damages to companies. A transitional period will be ideal for this. This could take up to two years, as this kind of trade agreement is very complex, according to the council.

"The cooperation between the EU and the UK remains very important to ensure security, freedom and prosperity in Europe. Continued cooperation will also contribute to stability and prospects for people in countries around Europe", AIV president Monika Sie said.