Positive Rhetoric Continues Following Sefcovic-Cleverly Call

EU Commission VP Maros Sefcovic: "Good conversation with [UK Foreign Sec] James Cleverly. We agree that our teams will continue to engage on the Protocol on IE/NI. The EU's commitment to finding joint solutions remains unwavering. It's the only way to ensure certainty and predictability in Northern Ireland. We'll speak soon."

• This is the latest in a string of positive-sounding statments from both UK and EU politicians regarding future relations. The rhetoric between Brussels and London has been much more positive in recent weeks, and this appears to be continuing in the wake of Rishi Sunak taking over as UK PM.
• However, it should be noted that positive rhetoric does not necessarily translate into action regarding EU-UK difficulties, notably the Northern Ireland protocol.
• Following the failure of the Northern Ireland assembly to elect a speaker today, the prospect of a snap election is very likely. This could delay any progress in EU-UK talks, with both sides likely to seek to avoid any major discussions that could have an impact in the election campaign.