NI given 'special consideration' in Brexit negotiations
Northern Ireland has been given special mention in draft guidelines for Britain's exit from the European Union.
Joseph Muscat, the prime minister of Malta - which currently holds the EU presidency - said today "The issue of Northern Ireland is being given serious and special consideration by the 27."
He was speaking alongside EU Council president Donald Tusk this morning where European leaders announced their official response to the triggering of Article 50 earlier this week.
They've said they won't try to punish the UK as it leaves the union - because Brexit itself is punishment enough, but trade talks will not take place immediately.
On the question of the land border between Northern Ireland and the Republic, Mr Muscat was emphatic.
"We know the sensitivities that exist on the Irish issue and we are looking at an innovative, creative, and pragmatic solution to see that the peace and stability on the Irish isle are maintained.''
He also said any transition agreements would need to be governed by European institutions:
"It will be a tough negotiation, but it will not be a war. At the end of the day the two sides need to remain close to each other as friends. But it is obvious for the 27 that membership of the European Union is the superior option.''
Mr Tusk said there would be no "Brexit bill'', but the UK had to honour its commitments.
"There is no such thing as a Brexit bill, or penalty for leaving. We ought to talk just about fairness and commitments.
"I have no doubt that for both sides it's important to demonstrate that we want to be fair with each other during the negotiations.''
He added that the UK had to deal with the EU as a whole, and not start bilateral negotiations with individual countries.
"If they want to achieve a constructive agreement it means that they should discuss and negotiate only with the 27 as a unity. This is the only way to achieve anything in this very difficult process.''