In Iceland, vote counting has begun in a referendum on whether to resume EU accession negotiations. After the first 152,000 of approximately 270,000 eligible votes were counted, opponents of the negotiations held a lead of the narrowest possible margin.

So far, 50.1% of voters have cast ballots against the government's proposal, compared with 49.9% in favor.

The final result, however, may not be known until noon on Sunday. Counting is being complicated by the need to transport ballots from remote areas by plane, boat and car. The campaign divided the country, particularly over fishing rights, the cost of living and high interest rates.

Supporters of the negotiations see the EU as offering greater security amid the war in Ukraine and wider geopolitical tensions. Opponents fear a loss of sovereignty and control over fishing rights. A victory for the "yes" camp would, for now, mean only the opening of negotiations with Brussels, not automatic accession to the EU.

(Reuters)