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- US Secretary of State Marco Rubio visits France for G7 ministerial discussions
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- Rapporteurs agree on digital euro design amid EU-US economic tensions
- Lloyds Banking Group’s IT Glitch Disrupts Services for Nearly 500,000 Customers
- Afghan Asylum Seeker Sentenced to 15 Years for Raping 12-Year-Old Girl
- Kazakhstan begins construction of $800 million Alatau Iconic Complex by 2029
- Trump’s Attacks on Starmer Regarding Iran War as PM Stands Firm
- EU approves customs reform to manage trade volumes and enhance compliance
EU
The European Parliament’s rapporteurs have reached an agreement on the digital euro’s design, facilitating both online and offline payments. This development addresses growing economic tensions with the US and aims to reduce dependence on American payment systems, advancing the legislative process following months of impasse.
The EU has enacted a comprehensive customs reform to manage increasing trade volumes and streamline standards enforcement. The agreement, deemed the most significant since 1968, introduces a customs data hub for efficient monitoring and simplified procedures for compliant traders, while enhancing controls on non-compliant goods.
Valérie Hayer, MEP and President of Renew Europe, discussed key policy directions and strategies for enhancing the bloc’s economic resilience. She emphasised the importance of innovation and collaboration among EU member states to address current challenges and strengthen economic stability across Europe.
Former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert stated that Israel is accountable for the ongoing West Bank violence, attributing it to settlers and government support. The Israeli security cabinet has announced measures to facilitate settlement development, which raises significant concerns amid rising tensions since the October 2023 Hamas attack.
Real household income in Europe has risen by about 7% since the COVID-19 pandemic, with Poland, Romania, Hungary, and Croatia seeing increases of 15-20%. This disparity highlights economic inequalities across the continent, affecting purchasing power.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will meet French President Emmanuel Macron today amidst increasing discussions on direct talks between Europe and Russia, with Macron recently dispatching diplomat Emmanuel Bonne to Moscow, reflecting a shift in diplomatic strategy.
Ukraine will receive a €90 billion loan to support its budget and defense, as confirmed by European officials. The European Parliament aims to expedite voting, given the urgent need to address funding before the budget is empty in April.
The European Investment Bank (EIB) is allocating €3 billion to assist EU countries in managing expected energy bill increases from the 2028 carbon tax, announced Climate Action Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra. This funding supports vulnerable households transitioning to cleaner energy solutions.
Centre-left candidate António José Seguro has claimed a decisive victory in Portugal’s presidential election, securing 67% to 73% of the vote against far-right candidate André Ventura, who garnered 27% to 33%. The results matter as Seguro’s win consolidates his position over Ventura’s growing opposition party.
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