The European stock exchanges showed small pluses on Friday afternoon. Investors processed the important US job report that turned out better than expected. In addition, the focus remained on trade talks between the United States and China, which are continuing in Washington.

The AEX index recorded 0.1 percent higher in the afternoon trade at 562.14 points. The MidKap won 0.6 percent to 800.83 points. Paris and Frankfurt rose 0.1 percent.

The London FTSE improved 0.5 percent. British Prime Minister Theresa May asks the European Union for a Brexit postponement until 30 June at the latest. London is also preparing to participate in the European parliamentary elections in May.

Vopak benefited from advisory increases by KBC Securities and Equita and was among the strongest risers among the main funds with a gain of 1.6 percent. The tank storage company announced that it would sell its terminals in Amsterdam, Hamburg and Algeciras in Spain to First State Investments. Supermarket concern Ahold Delhaize and insurance company NN Group were at the bottom with minuses of 1 percent.

Altice Europe was among the leaders in the MidKap with a plus of 2 percent. According to Goldman Sachs, the management of the cable and telecom company in a roadshow has provided “reassurance” with regard to improving the underlying trends on the French market. Takeaway won 2.9 percent. Meal delivery company Delivery Hero announced that it would sell Takeaway.com shares, which it acquired after the recent sale of its German operations to the Dutch company.