UK takes steps to leave European Union

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The British government published a "White Paper" policy document on Thursday, setting out plans for negotiations on withdrawing the country from the European Union (EU). Brexit Secretary David Davis said Britain's best days were still to come outside the EU.

Davis listed 12 main points in the document detailing how the government wants to make its exit from Brussels, and how it sees its new partnership with the remaining 27 EU members.

The white paper set out Britain's government strategy for departing the European Union, outside Parliament, in London, Britain, February 2, 2017. /CFP Photo

The document lays out general principles and says the UK will not seek a form of "unlimited transitional status" during the process.

Davis went on to tell members of parliament (MPs) in the Commons, "This White Paper confirms the prime minister's vision of an independent, truly global UK and an ambitious future relationship with the EU." ‍

A man waves a European Union flag as he queues to enter the Supreme Court, in central London on January 24, 2017. /CFP Photo

Davis indicated the British government wanted the EU to succeed politically and economically, and appreciated EU principles which include freedom of EU citizens to freely cross borders of all member states.

As a result, he said, Britain will leave the single market. Instead, UK will forge new strategic partnerships, not only with the EU, also with other countries across the world. He said the government negotiators will seek for more ambitious free trade agreements.

A Union flag flies near Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament in London on February 1, 2017. /CFP Photo

Davis added that while Britain cannot sign new trade deals until after Brexit, the country can and is preparing the ground for them. And he also promised Britain will keep the door open to international talent.

The publication of the white paper came less than 24 hours after Prime Minister Theresa May was given an overwhelming majority in the House of Commons over her plans to trigger the Article 50 mechanism for leaving the EU. Although May cleared the first legislative hurdle, her plans will face more scrutiny next week.

Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May delivers a speech on leaving the European Union at Lancaster House in London, January 17, 2017. /CFP Photo

Watch the video below to learn more about the White Paper.‍

(With input from Xinhua)

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