EU talks could begin by New Year's, says Iceland's foreign minister

Icelandic Foreign Minister Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir has indicated that negotiations for European Union membership could commence as early as the New Year. This timeline is contingent upon the outcome of an upcoming vote on August 29, which will determine public support for entering into accession talks with the EU.

Gunnarsdóttir stated that if the referendum results in a majority favoring the initiation of negotiations, the process could begin promptly. The vote is seen as a critical juncture for Iceland's relationship with the European Union, potentially marking a significant shift in its foreign policy and economic alignment.

The minister's comments suggest a proactive approach by the Icelandic government to move forward with EU accession if the public mandate is clear. The potential start of talks around the New Year signifies a swift progression should the referendum yield a positive result for EU membership aspirations.