The European Union's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier says he has tested positive for the coronavirus.

In a series of multi-language tweets, he said: "I would like to inform you that I have tested positive for COVID19.

"I am doing well and in good spirits. I am following all the necessary instructions, as is my team."

The 69-year-old French politician added: "For all those affected already, and for all those currently in isolation, we will get through this together."

I would like to inform you that I have tested positive for #COVID19. 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.

— Michel Barnier (@MichelBarnier) March 19, 2020

He was appointed as chief negotiator of the Brexit task force back in October 2016.

Before that, he held several EU roles, including as a special advisor on European defence and security policy and as vice-president in charge of internal market and services.

He has also previously served as France's Minister for European Affairs.

Earlier this week, he wished a happy St Patrick's Day "to all my Irish friends around the world".

He added: "These are challenging times for all of us but through unity and solidarity, we will overcome this crisis - together, le chéile.

"Lá fhéile Pádraig sona dhaoibh!"