(VOVworld) – Leaders of 27 EU countries have vowed unity during negotiations with Britain on conditions for Brexit. 

Britain's Ambassador to the EU Tim Barrow (L) delivers Prime Minister Theresa May's formal notice of Brexit to EU Council President Donald Tusk (Source: AFP/VNA)

In a statement issued on Wednesday after Britain triggered Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty, the EU expressed regret for Brexit, but said it is ready for negotiations. According to the statement, the European Council will approve rules for the European Commission to negotiate with Britain. The EU will be constructive and do its best to reach agreement and hopes Britain will remain a close partner. In negotiations, the EU will act as a unified bloc to protect its interests and minimize differences between countries, citizens, and businesses within the EU, the statement stressed.