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I guess one does not “just negotiate an agreement” for something like this.

And perhaps two referendums and working incrementally is wise in general, given the mess that was Brexit.

But that is quite literally what they are going to do. They're asking the public if they should try to join the EU. If yes, they will negotiate an agreement with the EU. Once the government has agreed a path forward with the EU, they'll then have another vote and if yes they'll actually sign the agreement and join the EU, if no, it ends there and they don't join

This first vote isn't committing the country or population to anything

As you say, it is committing the country to negotiate an agreement with the EU.

- Do you want to marry me?

* How will we handle X?

- Like Y.

* Sure, then, yes. I'm really looking forward to the wedding tomorrow.

- Nice, I never wanted to marry anyone in the first place.

???

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