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After news emerged that this week's Brexit trade talks were cancelled, the 69-year-old Frenchman today announced the news he had tested positive for the virus via with Twitter feed. He assured his followers he remains in good spirits and is "morale is good". Mr Barnier is the second high-profile European Commission official to have gone into self-isolation in the last week.

Writing on Twitter, Mr Barnier said: “I would like to inform you that I have tested positive for Covid-19. “I am doing well and in good spirits. I am following all the necessary instructions, as is my team. “For all those affected already, and for all those currently in isolation, we will get through this together. The Brussels bureaucrat is known for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and his love of walking through the mountainous Savoie region in the French Alps.

Michel Barnier has tested positive for coronavirus

Negotiators David Frost and Michel Barnier in Brussels earlier this month

Messages of support flooded in for the much-loved Frenchman, who has built a collection of admirers over recent years through his handling of the Brexit process. European Council President Charles Michel said: "Get well soon my dear Michel Barnier. "Wishing you a speedy recovery. I am convinced we will win this battle against Covid-19 together." European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said: "Dear Michel Barnier, I wish you a quick recovery. We are with you." Ireland's European affairs minister Helen Mcentee said: "Wishing you and all your team a speedy recovery. We are with you, Michel Barnier."

UK-EU trade negotiations have been put on hold in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak

A UK Government spokesman said: "We send Michel Barnier our best wishes for his recovery." It is understood David Frost, the UK's lead negotiator has also sent his best wishes to the Frenchman. The last time they met was during the last round of negotiations in Brussels earlier this month. MUST READ: Barnier told to reclaim UK fishing waters – Capitals reject compromise

What is Coronavirus?

Even former Brexit Party MEP Martin Daubney sent a message of support. He said: "Get well soon, captain. Wishing you all the best from the UK, despite our obvious differences, this is bigger than politics. Godspeed to you and your all." And deputy speaker and Conservative MP Nigel Evans said: "Get well soon Michel – we stand with you and your family during this awful time." During the first round of UK trade talks at the begining of the month in Brussels, Mr Barnier and his counterpart, David Frost, agreed officals would avoid handshakes to stop the spread of the virus. They have since suspended face-to-face talks as the coroanvirus crisis deepens across the Continent. DON'T MISS

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