Iceland holds knife-edge referendum on EU - and it could be decided on fish

Iceland's referendum on European Union membership talks is set to take place on Saturday, with the outcome far from certain. The country's decision to hold a referendum was sparked by a proposal to join the EU, which has been met with significant opposition from some Icelanders. The issue has become highly politicized, with economic and geopolitical tensions adding to the complexity of the debate.

The fishing industry is playing a significant role in the campaign, with some arguing that EU membership would threaten Iceland's valuable fishing resources. The country's rich fishing grounds are a major contributor to its economy, and any move to join the EU could have significant implications for the industry. The outcome of the referendum will have far-reaching consequences for Iceland's future, and could potentially impact its relationships with other countries in the region.

As the referendum approaches, all eyes will be on the outcome and its potential implications for Iceland and the wider region. If the vote is in favor of EU membership talks, it could mark a significant shift in Iceland's relationship with Europe. Conversely, a rejection of EU membership could see Iceland continue to maintain its independence. Whatever the outcome, it will be crucial to watch how the country's leaders respond and how the result impacts Iceland's economy and international relationships in the months and years to come.

Originally reported by bbc.co.uk. RefNews adds analysis for general news readers.