Browsing: European Commission

EUROPE MORNING BRIEFING

This morning, a new watchdog study reveals that the European Union’s Clean Industrial Deal has faced significant lobbyist influence, with over 750 meetings documented in the last year, raising concerns over industrial compliance and environmental standards.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, launched by Vladimir Putin four years ago, has resulted in the loss of approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory. President Volodymyr Zelensky reflects on Ukraine’s resilience, stating the country has defended its independence. More details follow.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the “One Europe, One Market” strategy at the EU leaders’ summit, aiming to unify the EU market to enhance global competitiveness against the US and China within two years. This change is urgent as leaders seek to overcome market fragmentation.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the “One Europe, One Market” strategy, aiming for full EU single market integration by 2027 to enhance competitiveness with the US and China. This is crucial for the bloc’s economic future.

Hungary’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Péter Szijjártó and Slovakia’s Minister of Economy Karel Hirman announced a suspension of diesel exports to Ukraine, citing Kyiv’s failure to restore the disrupted Druzhba pipeline, though the European Commission claims energy security remains unaffected.

Cliff Notes – How the European Union looks to counter China in Africa The EU aims to enhance cooperation with…

Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed the country’s participation in the EU’s Security Action for Europe (SAFE) agreement, paying €10 million, marking Canada as the first non-European state involved. The UK, however, faces demands of €4 billion to €6.75 billion for similar access.

EU Commission Vice-President Dubravka Šuica will face scrutiny from member states at Monday’s Foreign Affairs Council regarding her attendance at Donald Trump’s Board of Peace inauguration, amid criticism of the Commission overstepping its foreign policy mandate.

The European Union’s proposal for a new sanctions package against Russia remains unresolved after ambassadors failed to agree on a maritime services ban for Russian oil tankers. High Representative Kaja Kallas emphasized the urgency as the 24 February deadline approaches.

The European Commission, led by Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič, aims to revisit the WTO’s “Most Favoured Nation” principle due to the widening EU trade deficit with China, seeking to ensure equal market access amid persistent barriers faced by European firms in China.