- Icelandic voters have opted in a referendum against resuming negotiations for EU membership.
- The President of the European Council, António Costa, has held talks with the Icelandic Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir.
- The EU stated that it fully respects the democratic choice of the Icelandic people.
- Brussels reiterates that Iceland remains one of its closest and most reliable partners.
A ‘no’ to the resumption of accession talks
Following a referendum, Icelandic voters have chosen not to reopen discussions regarding integration into the European Union. The ballot box has thus confirmed the population’s refusal to relaunch the community accession process. This vote clearly defines the Nordic island’s position towards the European bloc for the years to come.
Reaction from European institutions
Following the publication of the results, the President of the European Council, António Costa, spoke directly with the Icelandic Prime Minister, Kristrún Frostadóttir. According to information released by his press office, the European Union has declared that it fully respects the democratic decision expressed by the Icelandic people. Representatives of the member states acknowledge the vote without reservation regarding its outcome.
Maintaining a strong strategic partnership
Despite the rejection of formal membership, diplomatic and economic relations between Reykjavik and Brussels are not being called into question. Iceland continues to be regarded by European authorities as one of its closest and most reliable partners. Both leaders affirmed their shared ambition to continue developing and strengthening bilateral cooperation outside of the formal enlargement framework.
