The UK is officially leaving the European Union (EU) on Friday, after three years of debates and internal political fights. This is Britain’s most important geopolitical move since World War Two.
The EU is losing 15% of its economy and its direct access to
London – one of the largest financial centers in the world. Besides, the UK has
been the greatest military spender for decades.
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said in a speech:
“This is the moment when the dawn breaks and the curtain goes up on a new act. This is the dawn of a new era.”
However, the most challenging part is only beginning as Britain has to reach a complex trade deal with the EU in 11 months. European leaders repeatedly asked for at least two years for the trade talks, but Johnson insisted on the current tight timeline and even ruled out any extension attempt.
Brexit supporters celebrate today, but there are many Britons who didn’t vote to leave back in 2016. For them, this is a day of cry. However, most businesses are just happy that Brexit uncertainty has just ended.
French President Emmanual Macron and other European leaders have expressed their sadness as the UK is leaving the bloc.