The Telegraph understands that the Northern Ireland elections are a definite factor in the Foreign Office’s thinking. Officials have yet to agree on the length of the “purdah” period before they take place on May 5.

Brussels has also signalled that a deal by the end of March would be favourable for the EU, with officials confirming that it is vital to reach an agreement before the elections.

“We want it sorted as soon as possible, for certainty and stability in Northern Ireland above all else,” an EU source said.

Officials and diplomats in Brussels believe the elections will give Ms Truss enough scope to compromise in the negotiations to ensure they do not overshadow the campaign period. “We’re already taking bets on when Britain’s annual Brexit climbdown will come,” one diplomat said.

Ms Truss and Mr Sefcovic are expected to agree on Friday to an accelerated timetable for talks to cut the number of checks between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK, which the Government argues are having a chilling effect on trade.

The Foreign Secretary said: “My priority is defending the Union and protecting the peace. I will be putting forward constructive proposals to help communities and businesses in Northern Ireland.”

Mr Sefcovic said: “My objective: stability, predictability in Northern Ireland.”

Downing Street and Brussels are keen to avoid the Stormont elections becoming a referendum over the protocol, which the DUP and other unionists want to be abolished because they fear it has driven a wedge between the province and Great Britain.