PM: UK will be a 'strong and dependable partner' after Brexit

The UK will continue to play a full role while it remains in the EU, and will be a "strong and dependable partner" after Brexit, the Prime Minister said as she arrived for her first European Council meeting in Brussels.

Theresa May said: "It is in the interests of both the UK and the EU that we continue to work closely together, including at this summit."

The PM said, unequivocally, that "the UK is leaving the EU".

But she followed that comment with a note of reassurance, adding: "we will continue to play a full role until we leave."

Mrs May also stressed that she wanted to talk to her fellow leaders about the situation in Syria, telling journalists: "We must show a robust and united European stance in the face of Russian aggression.

"The UK has put Russian actions in Syria on the agenda for this summit.

"We must continue to work together.

"It's vital that we work together to continue to put pressure on Russia to stop its appalling atrocities, its sickening atrocities in Syria."

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said she hoped the summit would show that what was happening in Aleppo "with Russian support" was "inhuman".

"That is why there has to be work on a truce," Mrs Merkel added.

:: Clashes in Aleppo as three-day truce begins

On Brexit, the German leader said: "It is up to Britain to say how they will make the request (to begin the process).

"The Prime Minister said this would be at the end of March at the latest so we do not need to discuss this in great detail today."

The president of the European Council, Donald Tusk, also spoke about the situation in Syria, referring to "crimes" being committed there.

He told reporters: "It's really difficult, even impossible, to talk about this and not refer to the current attacks on civilians and hospitals in Aleppo.

"I want to underline that the EU should keep all options open, including sanctions, if the crimes continue."

Mr Tusk spoke too about Theresa May, quipping: "Some media described her first meeting of the European Council as 'entering the lion's den'.

"It's not true - it's more like a nest of doves. Just look at me - I think it's obvious for you.

"You can be sure she will be absolutely safe with us.

"And I hope that she will also realise that the EU is still the best company in the world."