The EU says it has agreed with the UK to "intensify" Brexit negotiations in an attempt to reach a divorce deal ahead of October 31, when Britain is scheduled to leave the bloc.
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The announcement comes after EU Council president Donald Tusk vowed that the 27 nations would make another push for a deal following a constructive meeting between British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his Irish counterpart, Leo Varadkar.
EU negotiator Michel Barnier and Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay already laid the groundwork for intensified talks earlier on Friday.
On Monday, the EU will again take stock to assess the chances of a Brexit deal.
French President Emmanuel Macron hinted on Friday that the "next few hours" could be crucial regarding the possibility of a breakthrough on a Brexit deal.
Asked if there was a "glimmer of hope" regarding a Brexit agreement, Macron replied "let us wait for the next few hours".
Economists say a no-deal Brexit would hurt both the UK and the EU economies.
Australian Associated Press
