(Brussels) “It is important to discuss here, at the European Parliament, the home of the Europeans, the decision made” by the UK people in the June 23rd referendum. “It is the decision of the British people, but it affects all European citizens, which is why it is opportune that we, representatives of the European peoples, discuss the matter”. The President of the European Parliament, Martin Schulz, has kick-started the extraordinary meeting on Brexit this morning. “For decades, I have cooperated with my colleagues from the United Kingdom, we have built together the common home”, Mr Schulz said. “Today, we want to tell our British colleagues that we regret the decision of Great Britain to leave the EU. To each of you, we are all deeply linked in humanity. However, “we must respect the will of the majority of the British people; for this reason, we are here today to discuss the triggering of Article 50 of the Treaty” for London’s exit from the EU. Mr Schulz also expressed his “personal gratitude” to British Commissioner Lord Hill who resigned from the European Commission. The whole chamber welcomed his words with a standing ovation.