THE UK has granted full diplomatic status for the European Union’s ambassador after previously refusing to do so.
Joao Vale de Almeida took up his post as Brussels’ first ambassador in London last year, but was initially denied formal recognition while trade negotiations were under way.
The confirmation of full diplomatic status comes after the European Parliament approved the post-Brexit trade deal at the end of April, having been first struck on Christmas Eve last year.
Boris Johnson's government previously refused to grant the special status to Almeida, saying the EU is not a sovereign power.
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In a joint statement released tonight, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab and EU vice president of the Commission, Josep Borrell, said: “We are pleased to have reached an agreement together, based on goodwill and pragmatism, on an establishment agreement for the EU delegation to the UK.
“The EU Ambassador will have a status consistent with heads of missions of states, including agreement and presentation of the credentials to the head of State.
“EU delegation staff will have the privileges and immunities needed to function effectively, while allowing for effective administration of justice, and we look forward to moving ahead and tackling global challenges together.”
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Asked about his status last week,Vale de Almeida said that he was “confident that we will find a solution that is in line with international practice”.
He added: “It is about recognition.
“It is about respect.
“It is about the formalities of diplomatic life and that is an important aspect.
“I am very hopeful that we can soon come to an understanding on how to organise this diplomatic side of our relationship.”
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