David Cameron may have been “battling for Britain” in his EU negotiations but he came armed with a very British gift for the new-born daughter of Belgian Prime Minister, Charles Michel.
Mr Cameron brought a special set of Beatrix Potter books, translated into French, to present to his Belgian counterpart as a gift for his baby daughter, Jeanne, who was born on January 12.
It is understood other European leaders elected to give a collective gift to Mr Michel, but the Prime Minister opted to present a more personal option showcasing the famous British children’s author.
Speaking to the Times, a Belgian diplomat said: “It was a really personal touch and Mr Michel was very moved.”
They added: “It may not be well known in Britain but David is really very charming.”
Mr Michel is seen as being one of the Prime Minister’s toughest opponents in his campaign for renegotiated terms and during the talks, sat at the far opposite end of the summit table.
Belgium, backed by France, proposed that the summit should conclude that any terms agreed should be final and Europe should not offer any improved deal if Britain votes to leave the EU.
Mr Michel also opposed the Prime Minister’s proposal that a statute exempting Britain from further political integration into the EU should be written into the EU treaties the next time they are revisited.
European diplomats predicted that Mr Cameron could well be in for a fight when the negotiations resume – although perhaps more for show than anything else.
One prime-ministerial adviser said: “If Cameron needs visuals, a door slamming as he walks out, I think the others will understand.
“We need to give him something to defend and show British voters he is defending it.”
Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaite also predicted some theatre but was confident and a deal could be reached.
“I think everyone will have their own little drama and then we will agree,” she said.
The Prime Minister will continue in his negotiations before calling for a referendum on British membership to be held on June 23.
Read: David Cameron's marathon EU talks showing 'signs of progress', Cameron battles for Britain. But will a deal make any difference to how people vote?
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