Michel Barnier eagerly grabbed the Prime Minister’s hand ahead of a crucial Brexit meeting with Boris Johnson and European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker. The chief EU negotiator was spotted waiting close to the entrance of the restaurant the meeting would take place in to greet the pair. As Mr Johnson came closer, the Frenchman stepped in front of the European Commission boss to grab the Prime Minister’s hand to shake it.

The trio could be seen exchanging pleasantries in front of the restaurant, with Mr Juncker and the Prime Minister briefly chatting to the press before retreating inside. 

The top Eurocrat and Mr Barnier later escorted the British leader on a visit to a Luxembourg market during what is expected to be a crucial meeting before the EU Summit scheduled for October 17.

Mr Johnson is set to outline Britain’s latest plans to secure a withdrawal agreement with Brussels without the inclusion of the controversial Irish backstop.

The Prime Minister repeatedly urged the EU to renounce the “undemocratic” clause and agree to reopen the divorce deal to new negotiations.

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