The European Union is considering a new level of ties with Canada, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen proposing that Ottawa become the bloc’s first “associate member”. During her annual State of the Union address in Strasbourg on Wednesday (Sep 16), Von der Leyen made the offer to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, saying she wanted to work towards “opening the door” for Canada.Carney, who received a standing ovation from European lawmakers, has been pushing for a “unique alliance” with the EU as relations between Canada and the United States come under increasing strain.<h2>Beyond trade, towards an alliance</h2>The proposed arrangement would build on the existing Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which removes tariffs on 99 per cent of goods exports between Canada and the EU. Von der Leyen said Brussels wanted to take the relationship further.“We will move from CETA to an Alliance for the Future to create a common prosperity and economic security space,” she said.The expanded cooperation could cover advanced manufacturing, technology, defence production, the Arctic, energy, critical minerals, batteries, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, cybersecurity and economic security.Von der Leyen also stressed that the initiative was based on shared political values.“Above all, dear Mark, Europe and Canada believe in democracy,” she said.<h2>Canada-EU ties deepen amid US tensions</h2>The proposal comes as Canada faces an intensifying trade dispute with the US. Trade talks between Ottawa and Washington collapsed last month, followed by new tariff measures. US President Donald Trump has also repeatedly spoken about Canada becoming the “51st state”, adding to tensions between the two neighbours.Von der Leyen avoided naming Trump directly while stressing that the proposed partnership was not aimed at another country.“This is a partnership not against anyone else, but for our common strength,” she said.Carney is due to address the European Parliament on Thursday (Sep 17).<h2>Security also on the agenda</h2>Von der Leyen separately proposed a European Security Council involving partners including Canada, Norway, Ukraine and the United Kingdom.“This is even more urgent now, given the nature and scale of the risks at play,” she said.

EU chief Ursula von der Leyen has proposed Canada become the bloc’s first ‘associate member’, seeking closer ties with Ottawa amid worsening Canada-US trade tensions and shared security concerns.

The European Union is considering a new level of ties with Canada, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen proposing that Ottawa become the bloc’s first “associate member”. During her annual State of the Union address in Strasbourg on Wednesday (Sep 16), Von der Leyen made the offer to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, saying she wanted to work towards “opening the door” for Canada. Carney, who received a standing ovation from European lawmakers, has been pushing for a “unique alliance” with the EU as relations between Canada and the United States come under increasing strain. Beyond trade, towards an alliance The proposed arrangement would build on the existing Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which removes tariffs on 99 per cent of goods exports between Canada and the EU. Von der Leyen said Brussels wanted to take the relationship further. “We will move from CETA to an Alliance for the Future to create a common prosperity and economic security space,” she said. The expanded cooperation could cover advanced manufacturing, technology, defence production, the Arctic, energy, critical minerals, batteries, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, cybersecurity and economic security. Von der Leyen also stressed that the initiative was based on shared political values. “Above all, dear Mark, Europe and Canada believe in democracy,” she said. Canada-EU ties deepen amid US tensions The proposal comes as Canada faces an intensifying trade dispute with the US. Trade talks between Ottawa and Washington collapsed last month, followed by new tariff measures. US President Donald Trump has also repeatedly spoken about Canada becoming the “51st state”, adding to tensions between the two neighbours. Von der Leyen avoided naming Trump directly while stressing that the proposed partnership was not aimed at another country. “This is a partnership not against anyone else, but for our common strength,” she said. Carney is due to address the European Parliament on Thursday (Sep 17). Security also on the agenda Von der Leyen separately proposed a European Security Council involving partners including Canada, Norway, Ukraine and the United Kingdom. “This is even more urgent now, given the nature and scale of the risks at play,” she said.

EU chief Ursula von der Leyen has proposed Canada become the bloc’s first ‘associate member’, seeking closer ties with Ottawa amid worsening Canada-US trade tensions and shared security concerns.

Canada to become EU’s first ‘associate member’? Von der Leyen proposes move amid US tensions

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrived in New Delhi for the first visit of the EU College of Commissioners to India. She began her visit by paying homage to Mahatma Gandhi at the Rajghat, recalling his message of universal peace. Watch in for more details!

EU chief von der Leyen on India visit to boost strategic ties

European Commission President Ursula Von Der Leyen has arrived in India for a crucial two-day visit. She is set to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss trade, strategic ties, and the much-anticipated Free Trade Agreement (FTA). With the 10th round of negotiations on the FTA approaching, Europe is looking to strengthen its commercial and diplomatic relationship with India.

EU chief, team on a two-day India trip to broaden commercial and diplomatic ties

China must "adapt its behaviour" to solve an escalating tariff row with Europe, EU chief Charles Michel told AFP Friday, warning of the dangers of the dispute escalating into a full-blown trade war.

The European Council president met Chinese Premier Li Qiang on the margins of a Southeast Asian summit in Laos as Beijing and the European Union impose tit-for-tat penalties on each other's imports in a row about subsidies and protectionism.

Michel said in an interview with AFP that after his "frank and candid" talks with Li, he hoped a deal could be struck in the coming days or weeks -- but he warned that getting there would be tough.

"I have the impression that the door is not closed, but it's a very difficult situation, it's very challenging," he said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-nihon-hidankyo-group-nobel-peace-prize-winner-for-efforts-to-achieve-world-free-of-nuclear-weapons-766633">Nobel Peace Prize winner 2024: What is Nihon Hidankyo group?</a>

"We count on China to adapt its behaviour and to understand that we have to rebalance the economic relationships for more fairness, for fair competition, for a more level playing field."

China and the 27-member bloc are vehemently at odds over Beijing's generous subsidies for its industries, which Brussels says unfairly undercut European competitors.

Brussels has decided to impose swingeing new tariffs of up to 35.3 per cent on imports of Chinese-made electric cars.

A furious Beijing has responded with new tariffs on EU-made brandy, alarming French producers, while Brussels is also investigating Chinese subsidies for solar panels and wind turbines.

China is also tangled in a bitter, wide-ranging trade dispute with the United States, with Washington announcing sharp tariff hikes targeting $18 billion of Chinese goods including electric vehicles, EV batteries and solar cells.

Beijing reacted angrily to Michel's remarks Friday, condemning what it called the EU's "lose-lose" approach to the dispute.

"The EU should clearly recognise that imposing additional tariffs will not solve any problems," foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said, urging the bloc to "take concrete actions and work together with China to seek solutions through discussions".

<h2>- Defend EU interests -</h2>

With the global economy rattled by conflict in Ukraine and fresh turmoil in the Middle East, Michel said it was better for all to avoid a trade war.

But he insisted the EU would no longer be "naive" about massive government subsidies, though he offered some hope the two sides would find a way out of the row.

"I still hope that it will be possible in the days to come, in the weeks to come, to make an agreement to find some solutions," he said.

"But we have very strong and legitimate interests and it is the responsibility of the European Union to defend our people, to defend our citizens."

Beijing's new brandy tariffs of up to 38.1 per cent -- officially an anti-dumping measure to protect domestic spirit producers -- were due to take effect on Friday.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/watch-elon-musk-reveals-optimus-gen-2-humanoid-robots-at-tesla-event-and-they-can-dance-too-766615">Watch: Elon Musk reveals Optimus Gen 2 humanoid robots at Tesla event, and they can dance too!</a>

China imported more brandy than any other spirit in 2022, most of it from France, and French cognac makers earlier this week pleaded for an end to the spat.

The EU has said it will challenge the "unfounded" measures at the World Trade Organization.

In a glimmer of hope for easing of international trade tensions, China on Thursday agreed to end a ban on the lucrative trade in Australian lobster.

Beijing banned rock lobster imports in 2020 as part of a raft of punitive measures imposed after Canberra cracked down on Chinese foreign influence operations and blocked tech giant Huawei from running Australia's 5G network.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

China must "adapt its behaviour" to solve an escalating tariff row with Europe, EU chief Charles Michel told AFP Friday, warning of the dangers of the dispute escalating into a full-blown trade war.

China must "adapt its behaviour" to solve an escalating tariff row with Europe, EU chief Charles Michel told AFP Friday, warning of the dangers of the dispute escalating into a full-blown trade war. The European Council president met Chinese Premier Li Qiang on the margins of a Southeast Asian summit in Laos as Beijing and the European Union impose tit-for-tat penalties on each other's imports in a row about subsidies and protectionism. Michel said in an interview with AFP that after his "frank and candid" talks with Li, he hoped a deal could be struck in the coming days or weeks -- but he warned that getting there would be tough. "I have the impression that the door is not closed, but it's a very difficult situation, it's very challenging," he said. Also Read | Nobel Peace Prize winner 2024: What is Nihon Hidankyo group? "We count on China to adapt its behaviour and to understand that we have to rebalance the economic relationships for more fairness, for fair competition, for a more level playing field." China and the 27-member bloc are vehemently at odds over Beijing's generous subsidies for its industries, which Brussels says unfairly undercut European competitors. Brussels has decided to impose swingeing new tariffs of up to 35.3 per cent on imports of Chinese-made electric cars. A furious Beijing has responded with new tariffs on EU-made brandy, alarming French producers, while Brussels is also investigating Chinese subsidies for solar panels and wind turbines. China is also tangled in a bitter, wide-ranging trade dispute with the United States, with Washington announcing sharp tariff hikes targeting $18 billion of Chinese goods including electric vehicles, EV batteries and solar cells. Beijing reacted angrily to Michel's remarks Friday, condemning what it called the EU's "lose-lose" approach to the dispute. "The EU should clearly recognise that imposing additional tariffs will not solve any problems," foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said, urging the bloc to "take concrete actions and work together with China to seek solutions through discussions". - Defend EU interests - With the global economy rattled by conflict in Ukraine and fresh turmoil in the Middle East, Michel said it was better for all to avoid a trade war. But he insisted the EU would no longer be "naive" about massive government subsidies, though he offered some hope the two sides would find a way out of the row. "I still hope that it will be possible in the days to come, in the weeks to come, to make an agreement to find some solutions," he said. "But we have very strong and legitimate interests and it is the responsibility of the European Union to defend our people, to defend our citizens." Beijing's new brandy tariffs of up to 38.1 per cent -- officially an anti-dumping measure to protect domestic spirit producers -- were due to take effect on Friday. Also Read | Watch: Elon Musk reveals Optimus Gen 2 humanoid robots at Tesla event, and they can dance too! China imported more brandy than any other spirit in 2022, most of it from France, and French cognac makers earlier this week pleaded for an end to the spat. The EU has said it will challenge the "unfounded" measures at the World Trade Organization. In a glimmer of hope for easing of international trade tensions, China on Thursday agreed to end a ban on the lucrative trade in Australian lobster. Beijing banned rock lobster imports in 2020 as part of a raft of punitive measures imposed after Canberra cracked down on Chinese foreign influence operations and blocked tech giant Huawei from running Australia's 5G network. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

EU chief says China must 'adapt its behaviour' to solve tariff row with Europe

Ursula von der Leyen is on track to remain for a second term as president of the European Commission, as EU leaders meet on Monday for a first discussion on divvying up the bloc’s top jobs. Watch in for more details!

Von Der Leyen seeks another term as EU Chief

EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen has pledged action to help Italy's crisis-hit island of Lampedusa after the island was left struggling to cope with an influx of migrants. The EU Chief has also promised a 10-point EU action plan to help Italy deal with the current migrant crisis meanwhile the situation is only getting worse in the European nation.

Italy's migrant crisis: EU Chief's 10-point action plan to help Lampedusa's migrant crisis

The European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen meets Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. At the meeting, EU Chief and Indian PM Modi agreed to launch EU-India Trade and Technology council.

India, EU agree to launch trade & tech council during EU Commission Chief's India visit

EU Commission Chief Ursula von der Leyen is currently in India to boost ties with India. On her last day of the visit, she spoke at Raisina dialogue in New Delhi, India.

EU Commission Chief in India: Ursula von der Leyen speaks at Raisina dialogue

EU Commission Chief Ursula von der Leyen is currently in India to boost ties with India. On her last day of the visit, Indian External Affairs Minister spoke on EU Chief's India visit.

Raisina dialogue: Indian External Affairs Minister speaks on EU Chief's India visit

EU Commission Chief in India: Ursula von der Leyen holds bilateral with PM Modi

'Will step up cooperation in trade, technology and security' - EU Chief

The European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen meets Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. At the meeting, EU Chief and Indian PM Modi have agreed to launch EU-India Trade and Technology council.

Indian PM Modi & EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen agree to launch Trade and Technology council

The European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is in India and today is her second day. She is set to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, the talks will likely focus on trade, security and climate.

EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen to meet EAM S. Jaishankar

European Commission chief Ursula Von der Leyen is on a two-day visit to India where she will be meeting top government officials in a bid to strengthen India-EU strategic partnership. This is Ursula's first visit to India as the president of the European Commission.

India: EU chief Ursula Von der Leyen arrives in India for 2-day visit

EU Chief arrives in India: Ursula Von der Leyen to hold bilateral dialogue with PM Modi

The European Union foreign policy chief said on Sunday the Taliban government's behaviour up to now was "not very encouraging", and any economic collapse in Afghanistan would raise the risk of terrorism and other threats. Watch this report for more details.

EU foreign policy chief: Taliban government behaviour 'not encouraging'

EU top diplomat Josep Borrell called Wednesday for greater confidence with the United States as he met Secretary of State Antony Blinken following a spat between Paris and Washington. Watch this report for more details.

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell calls for 'Stronger Confidence'

The Georgian government and opposition party leaders agreed Monday to end a political standoff and signed an accord brokered by European Council President Charles Michel.

EU brokers deal to end political deadlock in Georgia

EU Commission chief Ursula Von Der leyen left without a seat as Turkey President Erdogan & EU Council head Charles Michel snap up the only 2 chairs during Ankara meet. Confusion or Sexism?

'SofaGate': Turkish Sofa arrangement hits European Union

The EU has so far approved three vaccines – those produced by BioNTech/Pfizer, Moderna and Oxford-AstraZeneca, but roll-outs have been hampered by delivery delays.

EU Chief Ursula Von Der Leyen acknowledges failings in Covid Vaccine rollout

In recent weeks, the European Union countries have faced a delay in the delivery of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine?page=1">coronavirus vaccines</a> which has raised alarms. The delay has been caused as the Pfizer-BioNTech has not been able to supply the promised doses.

However, now, EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen has asked the pharmaceutical companies to stay serve their word and not cause any delays in the deliveries of the vaccines.

"Europe invested billions to help develop the world's first Covid-19 vaccines," the EU chief said in a live video address.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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The challenges we face are complex and connected - from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> to climate change. 
 
Only new forms of partnerships - global, public, private - can solve them. We need new alliances, for new solutions. 
 
My address <a href="https://twitter.com/wef?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@wef</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DavosAgenda?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DavosAgenda</a> 
<a href="https://t.co/tUm3ejGr9K">https://t.co/tUm3ejGr9K</a>
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1354006554144550912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazeneca-denounces-me-first-approach-to-covid-jabs-359278" hreflang="en">AstraZeneca denounces 'me first' approach to Covid jabs</a>

While talking at the online-only version of the World Economic Forum, Ursula said the companies must deliver the orders on time.

"Now, the companies must deliver. They must honour their obligations," she said in the live address.

This statement has come a few hours after the EU Chief proposed new measures on travel in the EU, considering the new variants of coronavirus, mainly found in the UK and South Africa.

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In parallel, we propose stronger requirements for international travellers into the EU: testing, quarantines and a future common European Passenger Locator Form. 
 
We need to stop the spread of the virus variants &amp; keep us all safe. 
 
Together, we will overcome this pandemic.
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1353668986676916224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moderna-vaccine-effective-against-uk-and-south-africa-coronavirus-variant-359262" hreflang="en">Moderna vaccine effective against UK and South Africa coronavirus variant</a>

"We update the colour code of @ECDC_EU maps &amp; apply stricter measures for travellers from higher risk areas," she tweeted. "At the same time we need to avoid border closures &amp; keep the Single Market flowing."

The Germany Health Minister Jens Spahn has also backed the Eu Chief's statement and has asked for control on the export of the coronavirus vaccines amid the delays.

Spahn has asked for "vaccines leaving the EU needing a licence so that we at least know what is being produced, what is leaving Europe — and if it is leaving Europe, whether there is then a fair distribution."

This has come at a time when the pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca, too, has also said it would not be able to satisfy the contractual demand and supply the promised doses due to unexplained "reduced yields" in the company's European supply chain.

In recent weeks, the European Union countries have faced a delay in the delivery of the coronavirus vaccines which has raised alarms. The delay has been caused as the Pfizer-BioNTech has not been able to supply the promised doses.

In recent weeks, the European Union countries have faced a delay in the delivery of the coronavirus vaccines which has raised alarms. The delay has been caused as the Pfizer-BioNTech has not been able to supply the promised doses. However, now, EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen has asked the pharmaceutical companies to stay serve their word and not cause any delays in the deliveries of the vaccines. "Europe invested billions to help develop the world's first Covid-19 vaccines," the EU chief said in a live video address. The challenges we face are complex and connected - from #COVID19 to climate change. Only new forms of partnerships - global, public, private - can solve them. We need new alliances, for new solutions. My address @wef #DavosAgenda https://t.co/tUm3ejGr9K — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) January 26, 2021 × Also read| AstraZeneca denounces 'me first' approach to Covid jabs While talking at the online-only version of the World Economic Forum, Ursula said the companies must deliver the orders on time. "Now, the companies must deliver. They must honour their obligations," she said in the live address. This statement has come a few hours after the EU Chief proposed new measures on travel in the EU, considering the new variants of coronavirus, mainly found in the UK and South Africa. In parallel, we propose stronger requirements for international travellers into the EU: testing, quarantines and a future common European Passenger Locator Form. We need to stop the spread of the virus variants & keep us all safe. Together, we will overcome this pandemic. — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) January 25, 2021 × Also read| Moderna vaccine effective against UK and South Africa coronavirus variant "We update the colour code of @ECDC_EU maps & apply stricter measures for travellers from higher risk areas," she tweeted. "At the same time we need to avoid border closures & keep the Single Market flowing." The Germany Health Minister Jens Spahn has also backed the Eu Chief's statement and has asked for control on the export of the coronavirus vaccines amid the delays. Spahn has asked for "vaccines leaving the EU needing a licence so that we at least know what is being produced, what is leaving Europe — and if it is leaving Europe, whether there is then a fair distribution." This has come at a time when the pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca, too, has also said it would not be able to satisfy the contractual demand and supply the promised doses due to unexplained "reduced yields" in the company's European supply chain.

EU chief says companies 'must deliver' coronavirus vaccines; Germany agrees

A few days after the EU regulator, European Medicines Agency (EMA),&nbsp;approved the coronavirus vaccine by Pfizer-BioNTech for usage in the European Union countries, the European Union leader Ursula von der Leyen has said the vaccination drive will begin tomorrow across Europe.

Ursula had earlier set a target start date of December 27-29 to vaccinate the masses in the EU, and keeping her promise to the masses, the leader announced on Saturday that the vaccine has been successfully delivered to all EU countries.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-works-against-new-variant-too-eu-approves-pfizer-biontech-coronavirus-vaccine-351418">'It works against new variant too': EU approves Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine</a>

The leader took to Twitter to make the announcement. "The #EUvaccinationdays are a touching moment of unity. Vaccination is the lasting way out of the pandemic," she said.

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Today, we start turning the page on a difficult year. The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> vaccine has been delivered to all EU countries. 
 
Vaccination will begin tomorrow across the EU. 
 
The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EUvaccinationdays?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EUvaccinationdays</a> are a touching moment of unity. Vaccination is the lasting way out of the pandemic. <a href="https://t.co/pYOj5vS2gV">pic.twitter.com/pYOj5vS2gV</a>
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1342751465274806273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"We are starting to turn the page on a difficult year. Today is delivery day and tomorrow vaccination against COVID-19 is beginning across the European Union," she said in a video message.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-confirms-new-virus-strain-as-vaccines-begin-arriving-in-european-nations-352576" hreflang="en">Spain confirms new virus strain as vaccines begin arriving in European nations</a>

Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine has been made available to all the EU countries at the same time. Calling it a 'European success story', she reported that the EU has enough doses for everyone. "The European Union has secured enough doses of vaccines for our whole population of 450 million people," she said. "We also secured vaccines for our EEA neighbours like Iceland or Norway."

Ursula also assured that other coronavirus vaccines will be made available as soon as they are tested and&nbsp;approved by the experts.

Acknowledging the grim and socially distanced holiday season this year, she assured the world can return back to normal once the majority of the population is vaccinated against the novel coronavirus. She also urged people to stay cautious till then and follow the basic guidelines laid down by the health experts.

A few days after the EU regulator, European Medicines Agency (EMA), approved the coronavirus vaccine by Pfizer-BioNTech for usage in the European Union countries, the European Union leader Ursula von der Leyen has said the vaccination drive will begin tomorrow across Europe.

A few days after the EU regulator, European Medicines Agency (EMA), approved the coronavirus vaccine by Pfizer-BioNTech for usage in the European Union countries, the European Union leader Ursula von der Leyen has said the vaccination drive will begin tomorrow across Europe. Ursula had earlier set a target start date of December 27-29 to vaccinate the masses in the EU, and keeping her promise to the masses, the leader announced on Saturday that the vaccine has been successfully delivered to all EU countries. Also read| 'It works against new variant too': EU approves Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine The leader took to Twitter to make the announcement. "The #EUvaccinationdays are a touching moment of unity. Vaccination is the lasting way out of the pandemic," she said. Today, we start turning the page on a difficult year. The #COVID19 vaccine has been delivered to all EU countries. Vaccination will begin tomorrow across the EU. The #EUvaccinationdays are a touching moment of unity. Vaccination is the lasting way out of the pandemic. pic.twitter.com/pYOj5vS2gV — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) December 26, 2020 × "We are starting to turn the page on a difficult year. Today is delivery day and tomorrow vaccination against COVID-19 is beginning across the European Union," she said in a video message. Also read| Spain confirms new virus strain as vaccines begin arriving in European nations Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine has been made available to all the EU countries at the same time. Calling it a 'European success story', she reported that the EU has enough doses for everyone. "The European Union has secured enough doses of vaccines for our whole population of 450 million people," she said. "We also secured vaccines for our EEA neighbours like Iceland or Norway." Ursula also assured that other coronavirus vaccines will be made available as soon as they are tested and approved by the experts. Acknowledging the grim and socially distanced holiday season this year, she assured the world can return back to normal once the majority of the population is vaccinated against the novel coronavirus. She also urged people to stay cautious till then and follow the basic guidelines laid down by the health experts.

EU Chief says vaccine delivered to all EU countries; vaccination drive to start tomorrow

Negotiations on finalising a Brexit trade deal has been completed, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen describing the agreement as fair, balanced and right.

'It was worth fighting for this Brexit deal', says EU Commission Chief

"The deal is done," British Prime Minister Boris Johnson tweeted, declaring that the UK would remain Europe's ally and number one market.

'The trade deal is done': EU and UK clinch narrow Brexit accord

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday said that Britain and Eurpean Union were closer to sealing Brexit trade deal but she added that it was still unclear whether talks would succeed. UK is set to transition out of the world's largest trading bloc at the end of the year and time is short for both sides to agree over a trade deal.

UK PM Boris Johnson said he hoped the EU would "see sense" and agree a deal that respected Britain`s sovereignty, while German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the bloc favoured agreement.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told the European Parliament: "I cannot tell you whether there will be a deal or not. But I can tell you that there is a path to an agreement now. The path may be very narrow but it is there."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/intense-talks-on-a-post-brexit-trade-deal-continue-eu-chief-says-next-days-decisive-350154">Intense talks on a post-Brexit trade deal continue, EU chief says 'next days decisive'</a>

EU chief added that there were issues to be resolved.

"We have found a way forward on most issues but two issues still remain outstanding: the level playing field and fisheries," she said. "Issues linked to governance now have largely been resolved. The next days are going to be decisive."

A trade deal between UK and the EU would be necessary in order to keep an estimated one trillion dollars of annual trade free of tariffs and quotas beyond December 31.

(With Reuters inputs)

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday said that Britain and Eurpean Union were closer to sealing Brexit trade deal but she added that it was still unclear whether talks would succeed.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday said that Britain and Eurpean Union were closer to sealing Brexit trade deal but she added that it was still unclear whether talks would succeed. UK is set to transition out of the world's largest trading bloc at the end of the year and time is short for both sides to agree over a trade deal. UK PM Boris Johnson said he hoped the EU would "see sense" and agree a deal that respected Britain`s sovereignty, while German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the bloc favoured agreement. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told the European Parliament: "I cannot tell you whether there will be a deal or not. But I can tell you that there is a path to an agreement now. The path may be very narrow but it is there." Also Read | Intense talks on a post-Brexit trade deal continue, EU chief says 'next days decisive' EU chief added that there were issues to be resolved. "We have found a way forward on most issues but two issues still remain outstanding: the level playing field and fisheries," she said. "Issues linked to governance now have largely been resolved. The next days are going to be decisive." A trade deal between UK and the EU would be necessary in order to keep an estimated one trillion dollars of annual trade free of tariffs and quotas beyond December 31. (With Reuters inputs)

Closer to Brexit trade deal but success unclear, says EU chief in European Parliament

EU chief Ursula von der Leyen gave her most optimistic assessment of negotiations yet on Wednesday morning, but added she could still not say for sure if there would be a deal.

British and European negotiators have made little progress towards agreeing fair trade rules but are still far apart on access to fishing, she said as intense talks on a post-Brexit trade deal continued nearby in Brussels.

"The good news is that we have found a way forward on most issues," she said, adding that she and EU negotiator Michel Barnier can now see a "narrow path to an agreement".&nbsp;

"The next days are going to be decisive," the president of the European Commission told the European Parliament.

"But this is now a case of us being so close, and yet being so far away from each other, because two issues still remain outstanding, you know them: a level playing field and the fisheries."

Von der Leyen said that Barnier and his UK counterpart David Frost had made progress towards resolving rules for state aid to businesses and that the ways the deal will be governed "by now are largely being resolved."

But she was pessimistic on fish.&nbsp;

For months, the post-Brexit trade negotiations have stalled on the issues of fishing rights and the “level playing field” measures to prevent unfair competition. Britain is insisting that when it leaves the EU single market at the end of the year it will resume full control over access to its waters.

EU member states are holding out to preserve quotas for their crews fishing in UK waters and they want a long-term arrangement to provide stability.

Britain has so far only offered reduced access and annual quota renegotiations.

Ursula von der Leyen told MEPs there had been progress on the latter.

"On fisheries, the discussion is still very difficult," von der Leyen said.&nbsp;

"We do not question the UK sovereignty on its own waters, but we asked for predictability and stability for our fishermen and our fisherwomen," she said.

"And in all honesty, I sometimes feel that we will not be able to resolve this question."

EU chief Ursula von der Leyen gave her most optimistic assessment of negotiations yet on Wednesday morning, but added she could still not say for sure if there would be a deal.

EU chief Ursula von der Leyen gave her most optimistic assessment of negotiations yet on Wednesday morning, but added she could still not say for sure if there would be a deal. British and European negotiators have made little progress towards agreeing fair trade rules but are still far apart on access to fishing, she said as intense talks on a post-Brexit trade deal continued nearby in Brussels. "The good news is that we have found a way forward on most issues," she said, adding that she and EU negotiator Michel Barnier can now see a "narrow path to an agreement". "The next days are going to be decisive," the president of the European Commission told the European Parliament. "But this is now a case of us being so close, and yet being so far away from each other, because two issues still remain outstanding, you know them: a level playing field and the fisheries." Von der Leyen said that Barnier and his UK counterpart David Frost had made progress towards resolving rules for state aid to businesses and that the ways the deal will be governed "by now are largely being resolved." But she was pessimistic on fish. For months, the post-Brexit trade negotiations have stalled on the issues of fishing rights and the “level playing field” measures to prevent unfair competition. Britain is insisting that when it leaves the EU single market at the end of the year it will resume full control over access to its waters. EU member states are holding out to preserve quotas for their crews fishing in UK waters and they want a long-term arrangement to provide stability. Britain has so far only offered reduced access and annual quota renegotiations. Ursula von der Leyen told MEPs there had been progress on the latter. "On fisheries, the discussion is still very difficult," von der Leyen said. "We do not question the UK sovereignty on its own waters, but we asked for predictability and stability for our fishermen and our fisherwomen," she said. "And in all honesty, I sometimes feel that we will not be able to resolve this question."

Intense talks on a post-Brexit trade deal continue, EU chief says 'next days decisive'

As per the&nbsp;EU chief Ursula von der Leyen, Brexit talks have now entered the "last mile" on Monday. Leyen expressed satisfaction over the progress of the Brexit talks with the UK.

"First of all there is movement. That is good... We are talking about a new beginning with old friends," she told a conference organised by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-uk-businesses-urge-pm-boris-johnson-for-trade-deal-with-eu-349555">Brexit: UK businesses urge PM Boris Johnson for trade deal with EU</a>

While she was content with the way the post-Brexit trade pact talks were progressing, she also mentioned how this last mile was essential. "We are on the very last mile to go. But it is an essential one. We want a level playing field, not only at the start, but also over time," she said.

Talking about the need to figure out the details of the pact, she added, "This is the architecture we are building. We are fine about the architecture itself, but the details in it -- do they really fit? These are crucial points because it is a matter of fairness, fair competition and we want to ensure that."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-manufacturers-warn-of-knockout-blow-from-no-deal-brexit-349612">WATCH|</a>

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Her statement has come a day after the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Ursula had met for a detailed talk and had urged the experts and negotiators to figure out a way of making the deal work even at such a late stage. While the motion was applauded by many, the&nbsp;French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire warned Britishers that in the situation of a no-deal, the "losers will be the British. We don't lose much."

"Brexit, to quote a very simple phrase of John Le Carre -- to whom I take this opportunity to pay tribute -- is 'lunacy'," he said and added, "I&nbsp;regret that my British friends have to pay the price, because they are paying the price for populism, they are paying the price for lies."

As per the EU chief Ursula von der Leyen, Brexit talks have now entered the "last mile" on Monday. Leyen expressed satisfaction over the progress of the Brexit talks with the UK.

As per the EU chief Ursula von der Leyen, Brexit talks have now entered the "last mile" on Monday. Leyen expressed satisfaction over the progress of the Brexit talks with the UK. "First of all there is movement. That is good... We are talking about a new beginning with old friends," she told a conference organised by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Also read| Brexit: UK businesses urge PM Boris Johnson for trade deal with EU While she was content with the way the post-Brexit trade pact talks were progressing, she also mentioned how this last mile was essential. "We are on the very last mile to go. But it is an essential one. We want a level playing field, not only at the start, but also over time," she said. Talking about the need to figure out the details of the pact, she added, "This is the architecture we are building. We are fine about the architecture itself, but the details in it -- do they really fit? These are crucial points because it is a matter of fairness, fair competition and we want to ensure that." WATCH| × Her statement has come a day after the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Ursula had met for a detailed talk and had urged the experts and negotiators to figure out a way of making the deal work even at such a late stage. While the motion was applauded by many, the French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire warned Britishers that in the situation of a no-deal, the "losers will be the British. We don't lose much." "Brexit, to quote a very simple phrase of John Le Carre -- to whom I take this opportunity to pay tribute -- is 'lunacy'," he said and added, "I regret that my British friends have to pay the price, because they are paying the price for populism, they are paying the price for lies."

Satisfied with movement in Brexit talks: EU chief Ursula von der Leyen

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are all set to come face to face in an attempt to seal a post-brexit trade deal. UK & EU's repeated efforts to narrow their differences have fallen flat.

UK, EU to discuss post-brexit trade deal, both sides still stuck over 3 issues

United Kingdom and European Union negotiators paused trade talks on Friday to call in their leaders to try to narrow gaps and get an agreement over the line.

UK, EU call in leaders to save trade talks | Johnson, EU Chief to hold emergency call

The president of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen said Monday she would self-isolate for a day after learning she had met someone infected with Covid-19.

Von der Leyen said she was at a meeting on Tuesday last week attended by a person who tested positive for the coronavirus on Sunday.

"In accordance with regulations in force, I'm therefore self-isolating until tomorrow morning. I've tested negative on Thursday and am tested again today," she tweeted.

The head of the EU executive did not mention this in her announcement, but on Tuesday last week she was visiting Lisbon for talks with senior Portuguese officials.

When she is in Brussels, von der Leyen generally stays in a small flat on the 13th floor of the European Commission's Berlaymont headquarters, near her office. She is not the first senior EU official to be quarantined in recent weeks.&nbsp;

Last month the president of the European Council, Charles Michel, was forced to postpone a European leaders' summit for a week after a security guard in his team tested positive.

The summit went ahead on Thursday and Friday last week, and was attended by Von der Leyen.

The president of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen said Monday she would self-isolate for a day after learning she had met someone infected with Covid-19.

The president of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen said Monday she would self-isolate for a day after learning she had met someone infected with Covid-19. Von der Leyen said she was at a meeting on Tuesday last week attended by a person who tested positive for the coronavirus on Sunday. "In accordance with regulations in force, I'm therefore self-isolating until tomorrow morning. I've tested negative on Thursday and am tested again today," she tweeted. The head of the EU executive did not mention this in her announcement, but on Tuesday last week she was visiting Lisbon for talks with senior Portuguese officials. When she is in Brussels, von der Leyen generally stays in a small flat on the 13th floor of the European Commission's Berlaymont headquarters, near her office. She is not the first senior EU official to be quarantined in recent weeks. Last month the president of the European Council, Charles Michel, was forced to postpone a European leaders' summit for a week after a security guard in his team tested positive. The summit went ahead on Thursday and Friday last week, and was attended by Von der Leyen.

EU chief von der Leyen 'self-isolating' after exposure to COVID-19

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he was optimistic that a Brexit deal could be reached as he prepared for talks on Saturday with EU chief Ursula von der Leyen to determine the next steps in the fraught negotiations.

The comments came&nbsp;ahead of a videoconference with von der Leyen to take stock of progress made in the latest round of talks.

According to The Daily Telegraph, Johnson said the prospects of a year-end deal to avoid an abrupt Brexit separation "are very good if everybody just exercises some common sense and looks at the deal that is there to be done".&nbsp;

British and EU negotiators said Friday trade discussions remained deadlocked on key areas, with London urging Brussels to give ground to avoid a damaging "no-deal" at the end of the year.

Both sides have pinpointed a European summit on October 15 as the latest an agreement could be reached for it to be ratified in time for it take effect at the end of December.

But von der Leyen has already warned against a deal "at any price".

After the ninth round of talks in the tortuous process broke up in Brussels, with renewed commitments to find a way out of the impasse, there was clear acknowledgement the clock was ticking.

Despite indicating there were signs of agreement in a number of areas, UK negotiator David Frost warned disagreements over competition rules and fishing may be "impossible" to overcome without the EU giving ground.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said she believed a deal was still possible, though she said that the next days would be crucial.

The von der Leyen and Johnson call also follows the launch of legal action by Brussels in response to the British government's attempt to overturn parts of the Brexit withdrawal agreement.

On Tuesday, British MPs backed a bill to regulate the UK's internal market from January 1, when Britain completes its post-Brexit transition period and leaves the EU single market and customs union.

Johnson has pushed on with the legislation despite concerns in his own party and a warning from Washington that it puts Irish peace at risk.

(with inputs)

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he was optimistic that a Brexit deal could be reached as he prepared for talks on Saturday with EU chief Ursula von der Leyen to determine the next steps in the fraught negotiations.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he was optimistic that a Brexit deal could be reached as he prepared for talks on Saturday with EU chief Ursula von der Leyen to determine the next steps in the fraught negotiations. The comments came ahead of a videoconference with von der Leyen to take stock of progress made in the latest round of talks. According to The Daily Telegraph, Johnson said the prospects of a year-end deal to avoid an abrupt Brexit separation "are very good if everybody just exercises some common sense and looks at the deal that is there to be done". British and EU negotiators said Friday trade discussions remained deadlocked on key areas, with London urging Brussels to give ground to avoid a damaging "no-deal" at the end of the year. Both sides have pinpointed a European summit on October 15 as the latest an agreement could be reached for it to be ratified in time for it take effect at the end of December. But von der Leyen has already warned against a deal "at any price". After the ninth round of talks in the tortuous process broke up in Brussels, with renewed commitments to find a way out of the impasse, there was clear acknowledgement the clock was ticking. Despite indicating there were signs of agreement in a number of areas, UK negotiator David Frost warned disagreements over competition rules and fishing may be "impossible" to overcome without the EU giving ground. German Chancellor Angela Merkel said she believed a deal was still possible, though she said that the next days would be crucial. The von der Leyen and Johnson call also follows the launch of legal action by Brussels in response to the British government's attempt to overturn parts of the Brexit withdrawal agreement. On Tuesday, British MPs backed a bill to regulate the UK's internal market from January 1, when Britain completes its post-Brexit transition period and leaves the EU single market and customs union. Johnson has pushed on with the legislation despite concerns in his own party and a warning from Washington that it puts Irish peace at risk. (with inputs)

UK PM Johnson 'optimistic' over Brexit deal ahead of talks with EU chief

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