As the fallout from the Aukus announcement threatens to delay an important&nbsp;trade deal, European Union (EU) officials are demanding answers and an apology from Australia over its treatment of France. &nbsp;

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Australia’s hopes of entering into a free-trade deal with the EU seems to have hit a roadblock as the EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen is demanding Canberra’s explanation on its conduct with&nbsp;EU member state, France.&nbsp;

While entering into a partnership with the United States and United Kingdom in a new agreement named as Aukus, the Morrison government announced it was cancelling its $90bn submarine contract with the French. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/aukus-could-trigger-a-nuclear-arms-race-north-korea-414521" hreflang="en">Aukus could trigger a 'nuclear arms race': North Korea</a>

The French have claimed to have been “blindsided” by the announcement. Although attempts have been made to soothe the controversy, the French recalled their ambassador and have asked the EU to reconsider Australia’s involvement in a free-trade deal with it. &nbsp;

The trade talks with Australia are expected to continue as planned. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-nuclear-submarine-contract-row-biden-seeks-early-talks-with-macron-to-clear-air-414228" hreflang="en">Amid nuclear submarine contract row, Biden seeks early talks with Macron to clear air &nbsp;</a>

“One of our member states has been treated in a way that is not acceptable, so we want to know what happened and why. Therefore, you first of all clarify that, before you keep on going with business as usual,” von der Leyen said.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

As the fallout from the Aukus announcement threatens to delay an important trade deal, European Union (EU) officials are demanding answers and an apology from Australia over its treatment of France.

As the fallout from the Aukus announcement threatens to delay an important trade deal, European Union (EU) officials are demanding answers and an apology from Australia over its treatment of France. Watch: × Australia’s hopes of entering into a free-trade deal with the EU seems to have hit a roadblock as the EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen is demanding Canberra’s explanation on its conduct with EU member state, France. While entering into a partnership with the United States and United Kingdom in a new agreement named as Aukus, the Morrison government announced it was cancelling its $90bn submarine contract with the French. Also Read | Aukus could trigger a 'nuclear arms race': North Korea The French have claimed to have been “blindsided” by the announcement. Although attempts have been made to soothe the controversy, the French recalled their ambassador and have asked the EU to reconsider Australia’s involvement in a free-trade deal with it. The trade talks with Australia are expected to continue as planned. Also Read: Amid nuclear submarine contract row, Biden seeks early talks with Macron to clear air “One of our member states has been treated in a way that is not acceptable, so we want to know what happened and why. Therefore, you first of all clarify that, before you keep on going with business as usual,” von der Leyen said. (With inputs from agencies)

Before trade talks, EU seeks apology from Australia over France’s treatment in Aukus row

The United States and European Union on Friday made a joint&nbsp;pledge to cut global methane emissions by almost a third in the next decade. The climate experts have hailed this as one of the most significant steps yet towards fulfilling the Paris climate agreement.

This comes after the UN secretary-general, António Guterres, warned of a “high risk of failure” at the vital UN climate talks, Cop26, set for Glasgow this November.

As per the plan between US and the EU, a target has been set of cutting at least 30 per cent from global methane emissions, based on 2020 levels, by 2030.&nbsp;

If adopted around the world, this would reduce global heating by 0.2C by the 2040s, compared with likely temperature rises by then. The world is now about 1.2C hotter than in pre-industrial times.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spacex-tourists-talk-to-tom-cruise-from-orbit-413892">Also read |&nbsp;SpaceX tourists talk to Tom Cruise from orbit</a>

Boris Johnson said the UK would be one of the first to join the US-EU methane pledge when it opens for more signatories at Cop26.&nbsp;

During a meeting of world leaders from major economies on Friday, he said, “Over the last 30 years the UK has cut emissions of methane by something like 60%. And there are good commercial uses for methane, you can use it to make fabrics, you can use it to make antifreeze. So the world could slash its output of this powerful greenhouse gas tomorrow if we wanted to.”

Also, the UN published a report which has revealed that the current pledges on emissions from national governments would result in an increase of 16 per cent in emissions in 2030 compared with 2010 levels, whereas scientists warn that emissions must fall by 45 per cent in that period to stay within 1.5C.&nbsp;

The OECD published another report showing that climate finance funding from private and public sources that flows from the rich world to developing countries was falling about $20 billion short of a longstanding target of $100 billion a year.

The United States and European Union on Friday made a joint pledge to cut global methane emissions by almost a third in the next decade. The climate experts have hailed this as one of the most significant steps yet towards fulfilling the Paris climate agreement.

The United States and European Union on Friday made a joint pledge to cut global methane emissions by almost a third in the next decade. The climate experts have hailed this as one of the most significant steps yet towards fulfilling the Paris climate agreement. This comes after the UN secretary-general, António Guterres, warned of a “high risk of failure” at the vital UN climate talks, Cop26, set for Glasgow this November. As per the plan between US and the EU, a target has been set of cutting at least 30 per cent from global methane emissions, based on 2020 levels, by 2030. If adopted around the world, this would reduce global heating by 0.2C by the 2040s, compared with likely temperature rises by then. The world is now about 1.2C hotter than in pre-industrial times. Also read | SpaceX tourists talk to Tom Cruise from orbit Boris Johnson said the UK would be one of the first to join the US-EU methane pledge when it opens for more signatories at Cop26. During a meeting of world leaders from major economies on Friday, he said, “Over the last 30 years the UK has cut emissions of methane by something like 60%. And there are good commercial uses for methane, you can use it to make fabrics, you can use it to make antifreeze. So the world could slash its output of this powerful greenhouse gas tomorrow if we wanted to.” Also, the UN published a report which has revealed that the current pledges on emissions from national governments would result in an increase of 16 per cent in emissions in 2030 compared with 2010 levels, whereas scientists warn that emissions must fall by 45 per cent in that period to stay within 1.5C. The OECD published another report showing that climate finance funding from private and public sources that flows from the rich world to developing countries was falling about $20 billion short of a longstanding target of $100 billion a year.

US and EU pledge 30 per cent cut in methane emissions

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday virtually addressed the Shanghai cooperation organisation or SCO summit, highlighting Central Asia's Sufi heritage to fight extremism. At the summit, which took place in a hybrid format, and India was represented in person by External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar, the PM talked about "challenges" in the area which is "related to peace, security, and trust deficit" and the root cause of these problems being "increasing radicalization."

PM Modi highlighted how Central Asia has been a "bastion of moderate and progressive cultures and values" and "traditions like Sufism have flourished here over the centuries and spread throughout the region and the world." Based on this "historical heritage of Central Asia, SCO should develop a common template to fight radicalization and extremism."

PM proposed that SCO should work to "develop a strong network" between "moderate, tolerant, and inclusive institutions and traditions associated with Islam" in SCO countries and lauded the "useful work being done by SCO-RATS". SCO RATS is the group's Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) which is headquartered in Tashkent, Uzbekistan and aims at increasing cooperation among member states on the issue of counter-terror, separatism and extremism. India will soon take over the Presidency of SCO-RATS.

Mentioning Afghanistan, the PM called on the group to take "initiative on this issue". Afghanistan was taken over by the Taliban last month, and many Central Asian countries, including Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, are concerned about an increase in refugee influx as a result of the insecurity.

He also welcomed Iran as its new member state and the inclusion of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Qatar as its dialogue partners. All 4 countries are India's close partners in West Asia. PM said, "The expansion of SCO shows the growing influence of our organisation. SCO will become stronger and more credible with new Members and Dialogue Partners." SCO has 8 members so far-- Russia, China, India, Pakistan, and 4 central Asian countries--Tajikistan, &nbsp;Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan. The last major expansion saw India and Pakistan included in the mega China-led grouping.&nbsp;

A specific focus was also on connectivity in the speech, with the PM emphasising the role of central Asia as a "connectivity bridge between major regional markets" and retreating from New Delhi's commitment to increasing connectivity with that part of the world. He batted for Iran's Chabahar port and International North-South Corridor that has huge Indian investment.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday virtually addressed the Shanghai cooperation organisation or SCO summit, highlighting Central Asia's Sufi heritage to fight extremism.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday virtually addressed the Shanghai cooperation organisation or SCO summit, highlighting Central Asia's Sufi heritage to fight extremism. At the summit, which took place in a hybrid format, and India was represented in person by External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar, the PM talked about "challenges" in the area which is "related to peace, security, and trust deficit" and the root cause of these problems being "increasing radicalization." PM Modi highlighted how Central Asia has been a "bastion of moderate and progressive cultures and values" and "traditions like Sufism have flourished here over the centuries and spread throughout the region and the world." Based on this "historical heritage of Central Asia, SCO should develop a common template to fight radicalization and extremism." PM proposed that SCO should work to "develop a strong network" between "moderate, tolerant, and inclusive institutions and traditions associated with Islam" in SCO countries and lauded the "useful work being done by SCO-RATS". SCO RATS is the group's Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) which is headquartered in Tashkent, Uzbekistan and aims at increasing cooperation among member states on the issue of counter-terror, separatism and extremism. India will soon take over the Presidency of SCO-RATS. Mentioning Afghanistan, the PM called on the group to take "initiative on this issue". Afghanistan was taken over by the Taliban last month, and many Central Asian countries, including Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, are concerned about an increase in refugee influx as a result of the insecurity. He also welcomed Iran as its new member state and the inclusion of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Qatar as its dialogue partners. All 4 countries are India's close partners in West Asia. PM said, "The expansion of SCO shows the growing influence of our organisation. SCO will become stronger and more credible with new Members and Dialogue Partners." SCO has 8 members so far-- Russia, China, India, Pakistan, and 4 central Asian countries--Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan. The last major expansion saw India and Pakistan included in the mega China-led grouping. A specific focus was also on connectivity in the speech, with the PM emphasising the role of central Asia as a "connectivity bridge between major regional markets" and retreating from New Delhi's commitment to increasing connectivity with that part of the world. He batted for Iran's Chabahar port and International North-South Corridor that has huge Indian investment.

At SCO, PM Modi highlights Central Asia's Sufi heritage to fight extremism

The European Union has stepped up its engagement on Indo Pacific with adoption of a joint communication on the EU strategy for cooperation in the Indo Pacific.

This plan includes concrete actions to reinforce the strategic engagement with the region which was tasked by the EU Council in April of this year.

Highlighting the importance of the adoption EU President Ursula von der Leyen said, "With (these) proposals, and guided by our values, we are offering a strengthened partnership to advance trade, investment and connectivity, while addressing common global challenges and reinforcing the rules-based international order."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-kept-india-in-loop-regarding-aukus-at-the-highest-level-413782" hreflang="en">Australia kept India in loop regarding Aukus at the highest-level</a>

India is key to the plan as&nbsp;EU is resuming its trade negotiations and starting investment negotiations with the country. The document stated that, "Once concluded, these agreements will considerably enhance the EU-India trade and investment relationship".

The plan mentions EU stepping up implementation of the Connectivity Partnerships with Japan and India.&nbsp;

As part of the plan, EU will also initiate regulatory cooperation in areas to support the green and digital transitions&nbsp;as, for example, the EU and India agreed to do in May 2021. Overall, EU will deepen its engagement with partners that already have Indo-Pacific approaches of their own — ASEAN, Australia, India, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Interestingly, under the new plan, the group will be engaging with Quad on "issues of common interest such as climate change, technology or vaccines".

The Quad or India, US, Japan and Australia will be holding their first in-person summit next week in Washington, in a move that formalises the grouping. The 18-page joint communication sees the Indian Ocean as the "principal passage for Europe to and from Indo-Pacific markets" and therefore the "stability and freedom of navigation in this area are therefore vital".

As part of the plan, the EU will also pursue its deep trade and investment relationships with regions and countries with whom it does not have trade and investment agreements, such as Taiwan.

The European Union has stepped up its engagement on Indo Pacific with adoption of a joint communication on the EU strategy for cooperation in the Indo Pacific. This plan includes concrete actions to reinforce the strategic engagement with the region which was tasked by the EU Council in April of this year.

The European Union has stepped up its engagement on Indo Pacific with adoption of a joint communication on the EU strategy for cooperation in the Indo Pacific. This plan includes concrete actions to reinforce the strategic engagement with the region which was tasked by the EU Council in April of this year. Highlighting the importance of the adoption EU President Ursula von der Leyen said, "With (these) proposals, and guided by our values, we are offering a strengthened partnership to advance trade, investment and connectivity, while addressing common global challenges and reinforcing the rules-based international order." Also read | Australia kept India in loop regarding Aukus at the highest-level India is key to the plan as EU is resuming its trade negotiations and starting investment negotiations with the country. The document stated that, "Once concluded, these agreements will considerably enhance the EU-India trade and investment relationship". The plan mentions EU stepping up implementation of the Connectivity Partnerships with Japan and India. As part of the plan, EU will also initiate regulatory cooperation in areas to support the green and digital transitions as, for example, the EU and India agreed to do in May 2021. Overall, EU will deepen its engagement with partners that already have Indo-Pacific approaches of their own — ASEAN, Australia, India, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom and the United States. Interestingly, under the new plan, the group will be engaging with Quad on "issues of common interest such as climate change, technology or vaccines". The Quad or India, US, Japan and Australia will be holding their first in-person summit next week in Washington, in a move that formalises the grouping. The 18-page joint communication sees the Indian Ocean as the "principal passage for Europe to and from Indo-Pacific markets" and therefore the "stability and freedom of navigation in this area are therefore vital". As part of the plan, the EU will also pursue its deep trade and investment relationships with regions and countries with whom it does not have trade and investment agreements, such as Taiwan.

Deepening partnership with India: EU steps up engagement in Indo Pacific with new plan

The European Union's first ever election observation mission in Iraq will deploy 80 people to follow early parliamentary polls next month, the group's head Viola von Cramon said Thursday.

"I strongly encourage everyone to make sure this is a peaceful process," von Cramon told reporters in Baghdad, adding that "violence and intimidation have no place in elections".

Bringing forward the elections was one of the only concessions made by the government in the face of mass demonstrations that broke out in late 2019 against endemic corruption and administrative breakdown.

Dozens of demonstrators have been kidnapped, murdered or targeted in attacks over the past two years.

Although nobody has claimed responsibility for the violence, activists blame Shiite militias, a rising force often funded by Iran.

Ahead of the polls, "any violence will only interfere and would finally prevent voters casting their votes," said von Cramon, herself a member of the European Parliament for Germany's Greens party.

Authorities must "ensure that all candidates, and particularly female candidates, political activists, journalists, human rights defenders and the electorate can fully exercise their democratic rights and freedoms," she added.

Nevertheless, calls to boycott the ballot box have grown in recent months, especially from disillusioned young Iraqis who accuse the parties of intimidation on top of vote-buying and cronyism.

Almost 25 million people are on the electoral roll for the October 10 vote to pick 329 MPs.

Human Rights Watch said that there were "significant obstacles" to Iraq's hundreds of thousands of disabled people voting "due to discriminatory legislation and inaccessible polling places".

Most polling stations are in school buildings without easy access for less mobile people, it highlighted.

The European Union's first ever election observation mission in Iraq will deploy 80 people to follow early parliamentary polls next month, the group's head Viola von Cramon said Thursday.

The European Union's first ever election observation mission in Iraq will deploy 80 people to follow early parliamentary polls next month, the group's head Viola von Cramon said Thursday. "I strongly encourage everyone to make sure this is a peaceful process," von Cramon told reporters in Baghdad, adding that "violence and intimidation have no place in elections". Bringing forward the elections was one of the only concessions made by the government in the face of mass demonstrations that broke out in late 2019 against endemic corruption and administrative breakdown. Dozens of demonstrators have been kidnapped, murdered or targeted in attacks over the past two years. Although nobody has claimed responsibility for the violence, activists blame Shiite militias, a rising force often funded by Iran. Ahead of the polls, "any violence will only interfere and would finally prevent voters casting their votes," said von Cramon, herself a member of the European Parliament for Germany's Greens party. Authorities must "ensure that all candidates, and particularly female candidates, political activists, journalists, human rights defenders and the electorate can fully exercise their democratic rights and freedoms," she added. Nevertheless, calls to boycott the ballot box have grown in recent months, especially from disillusioned young Iraqis who accuse the parties of intimidation on top of vote-buying and cronyism. Almost 25 million people are on the electoral roll for the October 10 vote to pick 329 MPs. Human Rights Watch said that there were "significant obstacles" to Iraq's hundreds of thousands of disabled people voting "due to discriminatory legislation and inaccessible polling places". Most polling stations are in school buildings without easy access for less mobile people, it highlighted.

EU observers call for 'peaceful' Iraq vote

EU Executive Vice President Valdis Dombrovskis on Thursday pleaded for urgent reform of the World Trade Organization, saying it was high time for change at the global trade body.

Dombrovskis said he was ready to consider a major shake-up of the WTO's dispute settlement system.

He visited the WTO headquarters in Geneva for a meeting with the organisation's director-general, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.

He then set out the European Union's priorities for the future of the WTO, two months before the trade body's ministerial conference, which is to be held in Geneva from November 30 to December 3.

"The face of trade has changed considerably since the foundation of the WTO" in 1995, Dombrovskis said.

"Meanwhile, the rules that govern the organisation have not.

"In its current form and state, the WTO is caught between a rock and hard place. Its negotiating function is paralysed. Its dispute settlement system is frozen."

And he said there was an absence of common purpose among its 164 member states.

"The WTO is in urgent need of reform," said the EU commissioner.

Diplomats and experts alike agree that the global trade body -- which only takes decisions by consensus -- has been stuck in a rut for years and unable to conclude large-scale negotiations.

Former US president Donald Trump's administration neutered the organisation's legal arm by blocking the appointment of any new judges.

His successor Joe Biden has yet to put an end to the paralysis.

Dombrovskis called for reform of the WTO's investment facilitation and subsidy rules, including industrial and agricultural subsidies.

The former Latvian prime minister said trade must play its part in addressing the "big tests of our time -- from health issues to climate change to digital".

He said the EU was open to considering "major reforms" of the WTO's Appellate Body dispute settlement system, provided that they make it "more effective and legitimate".

Revitalising the Appellate Body is one of Okonjo-Iweala's top priorities.

She also hopes to present the forthcoming ministerial conference with an agreement on fisheries subsidies to show that the WTO can still conclude tricky negot

EU Executive Vice President Valdis Dombrovskis on Thursday pleaded for urgent reform of the World Trade Organization, saying it was high time for change at the global trade body.

EU Executive Vice President Valdis Dombrovskis on Thursday pleaded for urgent reform of the World Trade Organization, saying it was high time for change at the global trade body. Dombrovskis said he was ready to consider a major shake-up of the WTO's dispute settlement system. He visited the WTO headquarters in Geneva for a meeting with the organisation's director-general, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. He then set out the European Union's priorities for the future of the WTO, two months before the trade body's ministerial conference, which is to be held in Geneva from November 30 to December 3. "The face of trade has changed considerably since the foundation of the WTO" in 1995, Dombrovskis said. "Meanwhile, the rules that govern the organisation have not. "In its current form and state, the WTO is caught between a rock and hard place. Its negotiating function is paralysed. Its dispute settlement system is frozen." And he said there was an absence of common purpose among its 164 member states. "The WTO is in urgent need of reform," said the EU commissioner. Diplomats and experts alike agree that the global trade body -- which only takes decisions by consensus -- has been stuck in a rut for years and unable to conclude large-scale negotiations. Former US president Donald Trump's administration neutered the organisation's legal arm by blocking the appointment of any new judges. His successor Joe Biden has yet to put an end to the paralysis. Dombrovskis called for reform of the WTO's investment facilitation and subsidy rules, including industrial and agricultural subsidies. The former Latvian prime minister said trade must play its part in addressing the "big tests of our time -- from health issues to climate change to digital". He said the EU was open to considering "major reforms" of the WTO's Appellate Body dispute settlement system, provided that they make it "more effective and legitimate". Revitalising the Appellate Body is one of Okonjo-Iweala's top priorities. She also hopes to present the forthcoming ministerial conference with an agreement on fisheries subsidies to show that the WTO can still conclude tricky negot

EU calls for urgent reform of WTO

From a ban on imperial measures to rules governing artificial intelligence, the UK government on Thursday announced a far-reaching review of EU-era legislation that it plans to ditch after Brexit.

When the UK's divorce from the European Union took full effect in January, "retained EU law" remained dominant to ensure continuity after five decades of membership of the bloc.

But the government said it was the right time for parliament and courts to reassert control over all legislation.

Brexit minister David Frost told the upper chamber House of Lords that the special status accorded retained EU law would be abolished as part of the review.

"But we are going to make this a comprehensive exercise and I want to be clear: our intention is eventually to amend, to replace, or to repeal all that retained EU law that is not right for the UK," he said.

The announcement came a day after Prime Minister Boris Johnson reshuffled his cabinet, in part, he said, to maximise the opportunities of Brexit.

But the announcement risks new clashes with Brussels, with the government saying it intends to replace the EU's data protection regime with new UK-specific legislation.&nbsp;

GDPR -- the EU's General Data Protection Regulation -- has become a de facto global standard for companies trading online, and underpins an agreement allowing UK firms to exchange data held on EU customers.

Cars and farms

Should the UK's new data regime stray too far from GDPR, it risks being frozen out of the EU online market.&nbsp;

But Frost said: "We intend to create a pro-growth, trusted data rights regime, more proportionate and less burdensome than the EU's GDPR."

The UK overhaul will also encompass AI, including EU regulations that require a human review of companies' use of algorithms should customers seek one, for instance if they are turned down for a loan application.

Frost, however, said the government's first "National AI Strategy", currently in the works, would "set out our plans to supercharge the UK's AI ecosystem and set standards which will lead the world".

The review will look too at "modernising outdated EU vehicle standards", the government said, to leverage innovations in autonomous maritime vessels, self-driving cars and drones.

Farming will be another area for reform as the UK looks at EU-inherited regulations around gene-edited organisms, potentially easing the way for more post-Brexit trade deals with the United States and others.

And the government said it would review an EU ban on product markings and sales in imperial rather than metric units.&nbsp;

While in practice the pint glass for beer remains the standard for UK pubs, since 2007 the royal "crown stamp" was not allowed on new glasses, in preference to an EU "conformity" stamp.

The main opposition Labour party said instead of touting future legislative opportunities, the government should address current problems related to Brexit.

An exodus of EU nationals has created a shortage of lorry drivers in Britain, and businesses complain of stifling red tape now that the country is out of the bloc's single market.

From a ban on imperial measures to rules governing artificial intelligence, the UK government on Thursday announced a far-reaching review of EU-era legislation that it plans to ditch after Brexit.

From a ban on imperial measures to rules governing artificial intelligence, the UK government on Thursday announced a far-reaching review of EU-era legislation that it plans to ditch after Brexit. When the UK's divorce from the European Union took full effect in January, "retained EU law" remained dominant to ensure continuity after five decades of membership of the bloc. But the government said it was the right time for parliament and courts to reassert control over all legislation. Brexit minister David Frost told the upper chamber House of Lords that the special status accorded retained EU law would be abolished as part of the review. "But we are going to make this a comprehensive exercise and I want to be clear: our intention is eventually to amend, to replace, or to repeal all that retained EU law that is not right for the UK," he said. The announcement came a day after Prime Minister Boris Johnson reshuffled his cabinet, in part, he said, to maximise the opportunities of Brexit. But the announcement risks new clashes with Brussels, with the government saying it intends to replace the EU's data protection regime with new UK-specific legislation. GDPR -- the EU's General Data Protection Regulation -- has become a de facto global standard for companies trading online, and underpins an agreement allowing UK firms to exchange data held on EU customers. Cars and farms Should the UK's new data regime stray too far from GDPR, it risks being frozen out of the EU online market. But Frost said: "We intend to create a pro-growth, trusted data rights regime, more proportionate and less burdensome than the EU's GDPR." The UK overhaul will also encompass AI, including EU regulations that require a human review of companies' use of algorithms should customers seek one, for instance if they are turned down for a loan application. Frost, however, said the government's first "National AI Strategy", currently in the works, would "set out our plans to supercharge the UK's AI ecosystem and set standards which will lead the world". The review will look too at "modernising outdated EU vehicle standards", the government said, to leverage innovations in autonomous maritime vessels, self-driving cars and drones. Farming will be another area for reform as the UK looks at EU-inherited regulations around gene-edited organisms, potentially easing the way for more post-Brexit trade deals with the United States and others. And the government said it would review an EU ban on product markings and sales in imperial rather than metric units. While in practice the pint glass for beer remains the standard for UK pubs, since 2007 the royal "crown stamp" was not allowed on new glasses, in preference to an EU "conformity" stamp. The main opposition Labour party said instead of touting future legislative opportunities, the government should address current problems related to Brexit. An exodus of EU nationals has created a shortage of lorry drivers in Britain, and businesses complain of stifling red tape now that the country is out of the bloc's single market.

UK launches post-Brexit review of EU laws

The European Union has invited Ahmad Massoud, the leader of the National Resistance Front (NRF) to address the European Council and the European Parliament.

EU Parliament invites Panjshir resistance leader Ahmad Massoud

The European Union has no other option but to engage with the Taliban regime in Afghanistan if it wants to influence events in the country, said EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell on Tuesday.

However, Borrell underlined at a European Parliament plenary session debate in the French city of Strasbourg that engagement does not mean recognition, Xinhua reported.

Describing the summer's events in Afghanistan as "a tragedy," he insisted that engagement is a priority for the EU to continue protecting as many people as possible.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-girl-is-with-the-taliban-but-watch-reaction-when-asked-if-she-wants-them-in-her-country-413190" hreflang="en">Pak girl is 'with the Taliban', but watch reaction when asked if she wants them in her country</a>

"To have any chance of influencing events, we have no other option but to engage with the Taliban. Engagement does not mean recognition. No, engaging means talking, discussing, and agreeing — when possible," he said.

Regarding the situation on the ground in Afghanistan, Borrell said it was "dramatic", adding the European Commission has quadrupled its aid from 50 to 200 million euros.

Recently, the European Union said that it will continue to coordinate with the UN and its agencies on the stabilisation of Afghanistan, ensure that humanitarian aid reaches vulnerable populations and for this purpose, will also step up financial support.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-fighters-have-little-food-to-eat-havent-received-any-money-in-months-report-413170" hreflang="en">Taliban fighters have little food to eat, haven't received any money in months: Report</a>

Following the Taliban takeover of Kabul in mid-August, the situation in Afghanistan has been dominating the international agenda, with key global and regional powers trying to find ways to ensure stability and security in Central Asia.

Last week, Gunnar Wiegand, the European Commission's managing director for Asia and the Pacific said that the European Union is in no hurry to recognise the Taliban nor to establishing official relations with the group.

"We need to communicate with the Taliban, we need to influence the Taliban, we need to make use of the leverages that we have but we will not rush into recognizing this new formation nor to establishing official relations."

Wiegand had said at a joint session of the European Parliament's committees with the delegation for relations with Afghanistan.

The European Union has no other option but to engage with the Taliban regime in Afghanistan if it wants to influence events in the country, said EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell on Tuesday.

The European Union has no other option but to engage with the Taliban regime in Afghanistan if it wants to influence events in the country, said EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell on Tuesday. However, Borrell underlined at a European Parliament plenary session debate in the French city of Strasbourg that engagement does not mean recognition, Xinhua reported. Describing the summer's events in Afghanistan as "a tragedy," he insisted that engagement is a priority for the EU to continue protecting as many people as possible. Also read | Pak girl is 'with the Taliban', but watch reaction when asked if she wants them in her country "To have any chance of influencing events, we have no other option but to engage with the Taliban. Engagement does not mean recognition. No, engaging means talking, discussing, and agreeing — when possible," he said. Regarding the situation on the ground in Afghanistan, Borrell said it was "dramatic", adding the European Commission has quadrupled its aid from 50 to 200 million euros. Recently, the European Union said that it will continue to coordinate with the UN and its agencies on the stabilisation of Afghanistan, ensure that humanitarian aid reaches vulnerable populations and for this purpose, will also step up financial support. Also read | Taliban fighters have little food to eat, haven't received any money in months: Report Following the Taliban takeover of Kabul in mid-August, the situation in Afghanistan has been dominating the international agenda, with key global and regional powers trying to find ways to ensure stability and security in Central Asia. Last week, Gunnar Wiegand, the European Commission's managing director for Asia and the Pacific said that the European Union is in no hurry to recognise the Taliban nor to establishing official relations with the group. "We need to communicate with the Taliban, we need to influence the Taliban, we need to make use of the leverages that we have but we will not rush into recognizing this new formation nor to establishing official relations." Wiegand had said at a joint session of the European Parliament's committees with the delegation for relations with Afghanistan.

EU has no other option but to engage with Taliban, says top diplomat

Britain on Tuesday said it would push back its implementation of full post-Brexit&nbsp;borders checks on goods from the European Union, as the pandemic, red tape and new immigration rules fuel supply problems.

Plans to introduce full controls in areas such as the import of food and animal products had been due from next month but would now start from January next year under a "pragmatic new timetable", the government said.

Britain will still introduce full customs declarations and controls on January 1, 2022, as planned.

Certification and physical checks on food and animal goods designed to protect against diseases, pests and contaminants — due to be introduced on January 1 — will now be introduced in July 2022.

Requirements for safety and security declarations will be also be pushed back to July.

"We want businesses to focus on their recovery from the pandemic rather than have to deal with new requirements at the border, which is why we've set out a pragmatic new timetable for introducing full border controls," said minister David Frost.

"Businesses will now have more time to prepare for these controls which will be phased in throughout 2022.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shortage-of-lorry-drivers-covid-induced-supply-disruptions-driving-inflation-in-uk-410004">Shortage of lorry drivers, Covid-induced supply disruptions driving inflation in UK</a>

"We remain on track to deliver new systems, infrastructure and resourcing needed for these controls," he added.

The pandemic and&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;have left Britain short of some 90,000 truck drivers, many of whom returned to eastern Europe, causing supply chain problems, particularly in the food and drink sector.

The UK has similarly postponed the full implementation of post-Brexit&nbsp;rules governing trade from mainland Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales) to Northern Ireland.

London is in talks with Brussels about how to put into practice the Northern Ireland Protocol, which is designed to prevent unchecked goods heading into the EU single market via the UK's only land border with the EU to Ireland.

But on Monday night, Frost warned ministers could unilaterally suspend the protocol unless progress is made, with opposition strong from pro-British parties in Northern Ireland.

That, however, could trigger countermeasures from the EU, which insists the protocol is not up for renegotiation.

<h2>Christmas pressure&nbsp;</h2>

Fears are growing that supply problems will hit Christmas. Fastfood outlets KFC and McDonald's have already reported shortages of some menu items, while the JD Wetherspoon chain of pubs, owned by&nbsp;Brexit-supporting Tim Martin, had run out of some beer brands

Trade Secretary Liz Truss said there was a need to be "as flexible as possible" given current problems.

"It's very important that we don't exacerbate disruptions by putting in extra controls at this stage," she told an online conference at the Policy Exchange think-tank.

"Now would be the wrong place to put those controls in," she added, blaming the pandemic rather than Britain's exit from the EU single market and customs union.

Employers group the CBI said the extra time would "relieve pressure in supply chains ahead of the traditionally busy Christmas period for retailers".

But the industry body's Europe director, Sean McGuire, said progress was still needed to eradicate most checks, particularly for agri-foods.

"And where supply bottlenecks are caused by labour shortages, the UK should use the immigration levers within its gift to alleviate short-term pressures," he added.

Britain is set for the strongest growth since official records began over 2021, with gross domestic product (GDP) set to expand by 7.1 percent, according to the British Chambers of Commerce.

But it said the acute driver shortage, global supply issues and recruitment troubles could hamper the recovery.

Recent data "point to a loss of momentum in the coming months as staff shortages, supply chain disruption and rising cost pressures limit output from many sectors," said Suren Thiru, head of economics at the BCC.

London's mayor Sadiq Khan on Tuesday called for a time-limited "Covid recovery visa" to help recruit and train EU workers to alleviate labour shortages after&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;and the pandemic.

Britain on Tuesday said it would push back its implementation of full post-Brexit borders checks on goods from the European Union, as the pandemic, red tape and new immigration rules fuel supply problems.

Britain on Tuesday said it would push back its implementation of full post-Brexit borders checks on goods from the European Union, as the pandemic, red tape and new immigration rules fuel supply problems. Plans to introduce full controls in areas such as the import of food and animal products had been due from next month but would now start from January next year under a "pragmatic new timetable", the government said. Britain will still introduce full customs declarations and controls on January 1, 2022, as planned. Certification and physical checks on food and animal goods designed to protect against diseases, pests and contaminants — due to be introduced on January 1 — will now be introduced in July 2022. Requirements for safety and security declarations will be also be pushed back to July. "We want businesses to focus on their recovery from the pandemic rather than have to deal with new requirements at the border, which is why we've set out a pragmatic new timetable for introducing full border controls," said minister David Frost. "Businesses will now have more time to prepare for these controls which will be phased in throughout 2022. Also read | Shortage of lorry drivers, Covid-induced supply disruptions driving inflation in UK "We remain on track to deliver new systems, infrastructure and resourcing needed for these controls," he added. The pandemic and Brexit have left Britain short of some 90,000 truck drivers, many of whom returned to eastern Europe, causing supply chain problems, particularly in the food and drink sector. The UK has similarly postponed the full implementation of post-Brexit rules governing trade from mainland Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales) to Northern Ireland. London is in talks with Brussels about how to put into practice the Northern Ireland Protocol, which is designed to prevent unchecked goods heading into the EU single market via the UK's only land border with the EU to Ireland. But on Monday night, Frost warned ministers could unilaterally suspend the protocol unless progress is made, with opposition strong from pro-British parties in Northern Ireland. That, however, could trigger countermeasures from the EU, which insists the protocol is not up for renegotiation. Christmas pressure Fears are growing that supply problems will hit Christmas. Fastfood outlets KFC and McDonald's have already reported shortages of some menu items, while the JD Wetherspoon chain of pubs, owned by Brexit-supporting Tim Martin, had run out of some beer brands Trade Secretary Liz Truss said there was a need to be "as flexible as possible" given current problems. "It's very important that we don't exacerbate disruptions by putting in extra controls at this stage," she told an online conference at the Policy Exchange think-tank. "Now would be the wrong place to put those controls in," she added, blaming the pandemic rather than Britain's exit from the EU single market and customs union. Employers group the CBI said the extra time would "relieve pressure in supply chains ahead of the traditionally busy Christmas period for retailers". But the industry body's Europe director, Sean McGuire, said progress was still needed to eradicate most checks, particularly for agri-foods. "And where supply bottlenecks are caused by labour shortages, the UK should use the immigration levers within its gift to alleviate short-term pressures," he added. Britain is set for the strongest growth since official records began over 2021, with gross domestic product (GDP) set to expand by 7.1 percent, according to the British Chambers of Commerce. But it said the acute driver shortage, global supply issues and recruitment troubles could hamper the recovery. Recent data "point to a loss of momentum in the coming months as staff shortages, supply chain disruption and rising cost pressures limit output from many sectors," said Suren Thiru, head of economics at the BCC. London's mayor Sadiq Khan on Tuesday called for a time-limited "Covid recovery visa" to help recruit and train EU workers to alleviate labour shortages after Brexit and the pandemic.

UK delays full post-Brexit border checks from EU, citing COVID-19 impacts

More than 31 non-governmental organisations (NGOs) including Amnesty and European Network Against Racism have targetted European Union for what they are the efforts to turn migrant database into a mass surveillance tool through proposed changes. The campaigners for the NGOs made the charge in an open letter to Members of the European Parliament (MEPs).

The NGOs have urged the EU to rethink overhaul of the Eurodac database of asylum seekers’ fingerprints. In a decision taken in 2018, the database was expanded to include passport or ID card details, facial images as well as fingerprints. This would also enable the officials to take fingerprints of children as young as 6. The previous age limit was 14.

The changes are yet to be implemented as the draft resolution is frozen pending agreement on reformation of centerpiece of EU asylum law.

The NGOs have said that use of facial imaging was “intrusive, disproportionate and privacy invasive". They said that the people on the move deserved the same level of protection as anyone else.

"...EU should not take advantage of their vulnerable situation to subject them to mass surveillance and undignified treatment.” they said.

The NGO's also lashed out at the practice of fingerprinting children

“Taking and retaining the biometric data of children for non protection related purposes is a seriously invasive and unjustified infringement on the rights of the child,” says the letter

Fingerprint database Eurodac was made in 2000 to deter asylum seekers from making multiple asylum requests

Under existing EU laws, asylum seekers are required to seek asylum in the first country they arrive in. This puts pressure on southern European countries.

More than 31 non-governmental organisations (NGOs) including Amnesty and European Network Against Racism have targetted European Union for what they are the efforts to turn migrant database into a mass surveillance tool through proposed changes.

More than 31 non-governmental organisations (NGOs) including Amnesty and European Network Against Racism have targetted European Union for what they are the efforts to turn migrant database into a mass surveillance tool through proposed changes. The campaigners for the NGOs made the charge in an open letter to Members of the European Parliament (MEPs). The NGOs have urged the EU to rethink overhaul of the Eurodac database of asylum seekers’ fingerprints. In a decision taken in 2018, the database was expanded to include passport or ID card details, facial images as well as fingerprints. This would also enable the officials to take fingerprints of children as young as 6. The previous age limit was 14. The changes are yet to be implemented as the draft resolution is frozen pending agreement on reformation of centerpiece of EU asylum law. The NGOs have said that use of facial imaging was “intrusive, disproportionate and privacy invasive". They said that the people on the move deserved the same level of protection as anyone else. "...EU should not take advantage of their vulnerable situation to subject them to mass surveillance and undignified treatment.” they said. The NGO's also lashed out at the practice of fingerprinting children “Taking and retaining the biometric data of children for non protection related purposes is a seriously invasive and unjustified infringement on the rights of the child,” says the letter Fingerprint database Eurodac was made in 2000 to deter asylum seekers from making multiple asylum requests Under existing EU laws, asylum seekers are required to seek asylum in the first country they arrive in. This puts pressure on southern European countries.

EU seeking to develop migrant database into surveillance tool: NGOs

Hungary's authoritarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has been criticised by fellow EU members for policies they say are hostile to LGBTQ people and immigrants. He has also faced international condemnation for cracking down on the press and judiciary.

Orban tightens grip over Hungary, introduces policies hostile to LGBTQ people

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization has warned that the militants could join migrants fleeing Afghanistan, adding on to security threats for Europe and the US after the American withdrawal from Kabul earlier this week.

Stefano Pontecorvo, NATO’s senior civilian representative to Afghanistan, in an interview, said, "We have put in place measures to avoid that, but in big numbers it’s a risk".

The European Union is eager to stem migration from Afghanistan and has cited the potential security threat.&nbsp;

As of now, about 500,000 people have been displaced in Afghanistan this year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-pm-suga-to-back-vaccine-minister-kono-in-ldp-leadership-race-410605">Also read |&nbsp;Japan PM Suga to back vaccine minister Kono in LDP leadership race</a>

However, there has not been evidence of people entering neighbouring countries, nor has there been significant movement toward the bloc, according to an EU diplomatic note seen by Bloomberg.&nbsp;

While NATO could be involved in assisting with the ISIS-K threat, Pontecorvo conceded that the role of the alliance will be subject to “a lot of soul searching and questions” after the chaotic withdrawal of Western forces.&nbsp;

“NATO is pretty rock-solid but there are a lot of lessons that can be learned.”

EU member states have also raised similar concerns about the risk of Afghanistan becoming a harbour for terrorist groups under the Taliban. 
&nbsp;

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization has warned that the militants could join migrants fleeing Afghanistan, adding on to security threats for Europe and the US after the American withdrawal from Kabul earlier this week.

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization has warned that the militants could join migrants fleeing Afghanistan, adding on to security threats for Europe and the US after the American withdrawal from Kabul earlier this week. Stefano Pontecorvo, NATO’s senior civilian representative to Afghanistan, in an interview, said, "We have put in place measures to avoid that, but in big numbers it’s a risk". The European Union is eager to stem migration from Afghanistan and has cited the potential security threat. As of now, about 500,000 people have been displaced in Afghanistan this year. Also read | Japan PM Suga to back vaccine minister Kono in LDP leadership race However, there has not been evidence of people entering neighbouring countries, nor has there been significant movement toward the bloc, according to an EU diplomatic note seen by Bloomberg. While NATO could be involved in assisting with the ISIS-K threat, Pontecorvo conceded that the role of the alliance will be subject to “a lot of soul searching and questions” after the chaotic withdrawal of Western forces. “NATO is pretty rock-solid but there are a lot of lessons that can be learned.” EU member states have also raised similar concerns about the risk of Afghanistan becoming a harbour for terrorist groups under the Taliban.

Militants may use Afghan chaos to infiltrate US, EU: NATO

EU&nbsp;countries on Friday laid out their&nbsp;conditions&nbsp;for stepping up engagement with the&nbsp;Taliban, agreeing to establish a joint&nbsp;Kabul&nbsp;"presence" to help departures if security allows.&nbsp;

"We have to engage with the new government in Afghanistan, which doesn't mean recognition, it's an operational engagement,"&nbsp;EU&nbsp;foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said, following a meeting of the bloc's foreign ministers in Slovenia.&nbsp;

"This operational engagement will increase depending on the behaviour of this government."

He laid out a raft of "benchmarks" that the new authorities would have to meet as the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;gears up to announce a new government after seizing power.&nbsp;

These included Afghanistan not serving as a base for terrorism, respecting the rights of women and the media, the establishment of an "inclusive and representative" government, and allowing access for aid.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/women-protest-in-afghanistans-herat-over-right-to-education-work-410216">Also read |&nbsp;Women protest in Afghanistan's Herat over right to education, work</a>

In addition, he said that the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;must live up to its commitment to allow foreign nationals and Afghans at "risk" to leave after the US-led evacuations ended at the end of August.&nbsp;

Borrell said&nbsp;EU&nbsp;countries agreed to establish a joint&nbsp;presence&nbsp;in&nbsp;Kabul&nbsp;if security allows to deal with the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;and ensure the departure of Afghans the bloc had been unable to get out of the country.&nbsp;

EU&nbsp;diplomats have left Afghanistan for neighbouring countries or to return to their homelands.&nbsp;

On humanitarian aid, Borrell said the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;would look to step up its help for the Afghan people but would judge the authorities "according to the access they provide".&nbsp;

The&nbsp;EU&nbsp;is also looking to bolster coordination with Afghanistan's neighbours as it looks to stave off a large-scale flow of migrants from the country to Europe.&nbsp;

Borrell said that the bloc would look to set up a "regional political platform" with the countries around Afghanistan aimed at helping to stabilise the situation.&nbsp;

EU countries on Friday laid out their conditions for stepping up engagement with the Taliban, agreeing to establish a joint Kabul "presence" to help departures if security allows.

EU countries on Friday laid out their conditions for stepping up engagement with the Taliban, agreeing to establish a joint Kabul "presence" to help departures if security allows. "We have to engage with the new government in Afghanistan, which doesn't mean recognition, it's an operational engagement," EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said, following a meeting of the bloc's foreign ministers in Slovenia. "This operational engagement will increase depending on the behaviour of this government." He laid out a raft of "benchmarks" that the new authorities would have to meet as the Taliban gears up to announce a new government after seizing power. These included Afghanistan not serving as a base for terrorism, respecting the rights of women and the media, the establishment of an "inclusive and representative" government, and allowing access for aid. Also read | Women protest in Afghanistan's Herat over right to education, work In addition, he said that the Taliban must live up to its commitment to allow foreign nationals and Afghans at "risk" to leave after the US-led evacuations ended at the end of August. Borrell said EU countries agreed to establish a joint presence in Kabul if security allows to deal with the Taliban and ensure the departure of Afghans the bloc had been unable to get out of the country. EU diplomats have left Afghanistan for neighbouring countries or to return to their homelands. On humanitarian aid, Borrell said the EU would look to step up its help for the Afghan people but would judge the authorities "according to the access they provide". The EU is also looking to bolster coordination with Afghanistan's neighbours as it looks to stave off a large-scale flow of migrants from the country to Europe. Borrell said that the bloc would look to set up a "regional political platform" with the countries around Afghanistan aimed at helping to stabilise the situation.

EU sets conditions for Taliban ties, eyes Kabul 'presence'

The European Union and UK-based drugs giant AstraZeneca announced Friday that they had reached a settlement in a dispute over a shortfall in coronavirus vaccine deliveries.

The agreement will see the firm deliver the rest of the 300 million doses it promised under contracts with the EU before the end of March 2022, and brings to an end a battle in the Belgian courts.

Brussels was furious when the British-Swedish pharmaceutical outfit fell far short of its delivery promises, undermining the early stages of the EU COVID-19 vaccine rollout.

Officials accused AstraZeneca of prioritising UK vaccine deliveries over the EU order, and European Commission lawyers went to court to demand deliveries or see huge daily fines imposed for any ongoing shortfall. &nbsp;

But the firm argued that its contract with the bloc only obliged it to make "best efforts" to meet its delivery target, and that production bottlenecks in its European plants had been unavoidable.

In June, in an interim ruling pending the final settlement of the case, the Brussels court imposed a new delivery schedule on AstraZeneca that it was able to honour.

And now the parties have agreed dates that extend the deadline well into next year.

Ruud Dobber, executive vice president for biopharmaceuticals at AstraZeneca, said: "I'm very pleased that we have been able to reach a common understanding which allows us to move forward and work in collaboration with the European Commission to help overcome the pandemic."&nbsp;

AstraZeneca manufactures vaccines designed at Britain's Oxford University and sells them on a non-profit basis -- its version is cheaper and easier to store than many competitors.&nbsp;

But the European Union has become frustrated by the slow pace of supply and has made another vaccine produced by US giant Pfizer and Germany's BioNTech the workhorse of its buying programme.

A European Commission statement said that AstraZeneca had delivered 100 million doses in the first half of 2021, would send 135 million more by the end of the year and another 65 million doses by March 2022.

"This will bring the total number of doses delivered to 300 million doses as agreed under the contract," it said.

The European Union and UK-based drugs giant AstraZeneca announced Friday that they had reached a settlement in a dispute over a shortfall in coronavirus vaccine deliveries.

The European Union and UK-based drugs giant AstraZeneca announced Friday that they had reached a settlement in a dispute over a shortfall in coronavirus vaccine deliveries. The agreement will see the firm deliver the rest of the 300 million doses it promised under contracts with the EU before the end of March 2022, and brings to an end a battle in the Belgian courts. Brussels was furious when the British-Swedish pharmaceutical outfit fell far short of its delivery promises, undermining the early stages of the EU COVID-19 vaccine rollout. Officials accused AstraZeneca of prioritising UK vaccine deliveries over the EU order, and European Commission lawyers went to court to demand deliveries or see huge daily fines imposed for any ongoing shortfall. But the firm argued that its contract with the bloc only obliged it to make "best efforts" to meet its delivery target, and that production bottlenecks in its European plants had been unavoidable. In June, in an interim ruling pending the final settlement of the case, the Brussels court imposed a new delivery schedule on AstraZeneca that it was able to honour. And now the parties have agreed dates that extend the deadline well into next year. Ruud Dobber, executive vice president for biopharmaceuticals at AstraZeneca, said: "I'm very pleased that we have been able to reach a common understanding which allows us to move forward and work in collaboration with the European Commission to help overcome the pandemic." AstraZeneca manufactures vaccines designed at Britain's Oxford University and sells them on a non-profit basis -- its version is cheaper and easier to store than many competitors. But the European Union has become frustrated by the slow pace of supply and has made another vaccine produced by US giant Pfizer and Germany's BioNTech the workhorse of its buying programme. A European Commission statement said that AstraZeneca had delivered 100 million doses in the first half of 2021, would send 135 million more by the end of the year and another 65 million doses by March 2022. "This will bring the total number of doses delivered to 300 million doses as agreed under the contract," it said.

EU and AstraZeneca settle vaccine supply dispute out of court

EU defence ministers have weighed proposals for the European rapid reaction force. This comes after the bloc was apparently sidelined during the US-led evacuation from Afghanistan.

EU defence ministers weigh proposals for European rapid reaction force

European Union countries have agreed to step up humanitarian aid to Afghanistan and assistance to neighbouring countries to take in refugees. But, EU ministers debated how to prevent the feared influx of Afghans.

EU to support countries neighbouring Afghanistan to take in refugees

Brexit hurt a lot of businesses and lead to a decline in several sectors, eventually hitting the economy. However, a couple never thought Brexit would lead to them living away from each other.

A doctor from South Africa and her husband from the UK are stuck on either side of the Irish border due to post-Brexit application rules.

Corrinne and Brett Giles are stuck in Donegal and Derry counties respectively, which are nearly 25 miles away. Corrine had worked at the frontline during the peak of the coronavirus pandemic but is currently out of a job and "living out of a suitcase".

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-years-on-brexit-bedevils-pandemic-hit-uk-393283" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/five-years-on-brexit-bedevils-pandemic-hit-uk-393283&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjb8ZGg-t3yAhUrzzgGHYGwBwQQFjACegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3tW9dqtdCdHFw-W-hcTGai" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-years-on-brexit-bedevils-pandemic-hit-uk-393283" target="_blank">Five years on,&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;bedevils pandemic-hit UK</a>

She lost her job as she was told that she would be able to immediately move to the UK and therefore she need not extend her contract in Ireland. However, now eight months later she is still struggling to survive in Ireland away from her partner.

"All the time the gap in my working career is growing substantially. Being kept in the dark with absolutely no feedback or communication from the Home Office is absolute torture. I never in my wildest dreams thought that two years after coming to&nbsp;Europe, I would be sitting on the couch, unemployed, disillusioned, disheartened," Corrine said. "All I want is a normal life. Also all my family are in the UK, my brothers, my sisters, my mum, and I’m completely alone in a foreign environment and it’s becoming increasingly difficult for me to continue this life."

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-urges-eu-to-show-common-sense-in-post-brexit-talks-390255" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-urges-eu-to-show-common-sense-in-post-brexit-talks-390255&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjb8ZGg-t3yAhUrzzgGHYGwBwQQFjAHegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw22tS43fAuqGPceKyjiG_z2" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-urges-eu-to-show-common-sense-in-post-brexit-talks-390255" target="_blank">UK urges EU to show 'common sense' in post-Brexit&nbsp;talks</a>

The doctor also faces the danger of having to move back to South Africa if she doesn’t get her work permit extended in Ireland or be able to move to the UK. This has led to Corrine living in a “constant state of anxiety” away from her partner.

This has happened due to the new guidelines in the post-Brexit world. Since the EU and UK separated, all UK citizens' non-British partners have to compulsorily apply for pre-settled status before March 29 next year in order to be able to enter the UK visa-free as a family. However, things were much simpler earlier when relatives of UK citizens could return to the country anytime, just like EU and non-EU members.

The new and only way by which non-EU nationals can enter the UK as a family is to first get a family permit from the Home Office.

Brexit hurt a lot of businesses and lead to a decline in several sectors, eventually hitting the economy. However, a couple never thought Brexit would lead to them living away from each other.

Brexit hurt a lot of businesses and lead to a decline in several sectors, eventually hitting the economy. However, a couple never thought Brexit would lead to them living away from each other. A doctor from South Africa and her husband from the UK are stuck on either side of the Irish border due to post-Brexit application rules. Corrinne and Brett Giles are stuck in Donegal and Derry counties respectively, which are nearly 25 miles away. Corrine had worked at the frontline during the peak of the coronavirus pandemic but is currently out of a job and "living out of a suitcase". Also read | Five years on, Brexit bedevils pandemic-hit UK She lost her job as she was told that she would be able to immediately move to the UK and therefore she need not extend her contract in Ireland. However, now eight months later she is still struggling to survive in Ireland away from her partner. "All the time the gap in my working career is growing substantially. Being kept in the dark with absolutely no feedback or communication from the Home Office is absolute torture. I never in my wildest dreams thought that two years after coming to Europe, I would be sitting on the couch, unemployed, disillusioned, disheartened," Corrine said. "All I want is a normal life. Also all my family are in the UK, my brothers, my sisters, my mum, and I’m completely alone in a foreign environment and it’s becoming increasingly difficult for me to continue this life." Also read | UK urges EU to show 'common sense' in post-Brexit talks The doctor also faces the danger of having to move back to South Africa if she doesn’t get her work permit extended in Ireland or be able to move to the UK. This has led to Corrine living in a “constant state of anxiety” away from her partner. This has happened due to the new guidelines in the post-Brexit world. Since the EU and UK separated, all UK citizens' non-British partners have to compulsorily apply for pre-settled status before March 29 next year in order to be able to enter the UK visa-free as a family. However, things were much simpler earlier when relatives of UK citizens could return to the country anytime, just like EU and non-EU members. The new and only way by which non-EU nationals can enter the UK as a family is to first get a family permit from the Home Office.

Couple divided by Irish border struggles to unite due to Brexit

EU countries agreed to step up humanitarian aid to Afghanistan. But EU nations also fear Afghan exodus with millions likely to take refuge in these countries.

EU countries divided on stance over Afghan refugees

President of the European Commission Von der Leyen on Tuesday said 70 per cent of adults in the 27-nation bloc have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

She said they have achieved the "end-of-summer target in January itself".

In a video statement posted on Twitter, Leyen welcomed the “great achievement”, saying, “Today, we reached an important milestone in our vaccination campaign. 70 per cent of adults in the EU are now fully vaccinated and that means 250 million people are fully immunised.”

The European Commission, which is the executive organ of the European Union, is responsible for ordering vaccines for the EU states.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vaccine-passport-the-european-covid-certificate-a-users-guide-386729">Vaccine Passport: The European Covid certificate, a user's guide</a>

The EU's COVID-19 vaccination campaign got off to a slow start due to supply shortages and delays but is now among the most successful worldwide. They had already announced in July that 70 per cent of the adult population in the region had received at least one dose.

Leyen said the union was also a “lead contributor” to the COVAX initiative, which aims to deliver vaccines to low-income nations.

The rate of fully vaccinated adults is about 20 per cent in Bulgaria, 32.8 per cent in Romania, 49 per cent in Slovakia and 58.1 per cent in Poland.

(With inputs from agencies)

President of the European Commission Von der Leyen on Tuesday said 70 per cent of adults in the 27-nation bloc have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. She said they have achieved the "end-of-summer target in January itself".

President of the European Commission Von der Leyen on Tuesday said 70 per cent of adults in the 27-nation bloc have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. She said they have achieved the "end-of-summer target in January itself". In a video statement posted on Twitter, Leyen welcomed the “great achievement”, saying, “Today, we reached an important milestone in our vaccination campaign. 70 per cent of adults in the EU are now fully vaccinated and that means 250 million people are fully immunised.” The European Commission, which is the executive organ of the European Union, is responsible for ordering vaccines for the EU states. Also read | Vaccine Passport: The European Covid certificate, a user's guide The EU's COVID-19 vaccination campaign got off to a slow start due to supply shortages and delays but is now among the most successful worldwide. They had already announced in July that 70 per cent of the adult population in the region had received at least one dose. Leyen said the union was also a “lead contributor” to the COVAX initiative, which aims to deliver vaccines to low-income nations. The rate of fully vaccinated adults is about 20 per cent in Bulgaria, 32.8 per cent in Romania, 49 per cent in Slovakia and 58.1 per cent in Poland. (With inputs from agencies)

70% of Europeans fully vaccinated against COVID-19, says EU chief Von der Leyen

EU condemned Belarus' attempt in fuelling migrant crisis across the border. Countries like Poland, Germany accused the Lukashenko govt of launching hybrid attack against 27 nation block in EU by not preventing immigration to block.

EU condemned Belarus' attempt in fuelling migrant crisis across border

EU Foreign Policy Chief has revealed that it would work with the Taliban even though it doesn't recognise the group. This statement was issued after the EU foreign ministers discussed the security situations in Afghanistan.

EU Foreign Policy Chief reveals that it will work with the Taliban

There is still time to prevent "runaway climate change" but only if the world implements carbon net zero policies, the EU's vice president in charge of climate action said Monday.

"It's not too late to stem the tide and prevent runaway climate change, but only if we act decisively now and all act together," Frans Timmermans tweeted after the release of an alarming report by the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

He stressed that the European Union is proposing a sweeping climate plan, unveiled last month, that aims to ditch dependency on fossil fuels to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tiktok-tests-disappearing-videos-feature-but-with-a-twist-403120">Also read |&nbsp;TikTok tests disappearing videos feature, but with a twist</a>

"But this is a global crisis: keeping 1.5 degrees within reach requires net zero emissions worldwide and faster rollout of policies to get there. COP26 must be where the world says 'enough'!," Timmermans tweeted, referring to a global climate conference to take place in November.

"The IPCC climate report shows the immense urgency of acting now to tackle the climate crisis," he added.

The IPCC concluded that the 1.5C temperature goal of the Paris Agreement would likely be breached around 2030 -- a decade earlier than it projected just three years ago.

There is still time to prevent "runaway climate change" but only if the world implements carbon net zero policies, the EU's vice president in charge of climate action said Monday.

There is still time to prevent "runaway climate change" but only if the world implements carbon net zero policies, the EU's vice president in charge of climate action said Monday. "It's not too late to stem the tide and prevent runaway climate change, but only if we act decisively now and all act together," Frans Timmermans tweeted after the release of an alarming report by the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). He stressed that the European Union is proposing a sweeping climate plan, unveiled last month, that aims to ditch dependency on fossil fuels to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. Also read | TikTok tests disappearing videos feature, but with a twist "But this is a global crisis: keeping 1.5 degrees within reach requires net zero emissions worldwide and faster rollout of policies to get there. COP26 must be where the world says 'enough'!," Timmermans tweeted, referring to a global climate conference to take place in November. "The IPCC climate report shows the immense urgency of acting now to tackle the climate crisis," he added. The IPCC concluded that the 1.5C temperature goal of the Paris Agreement would likely be breached around 2030 -- a decade earlier than it projected just three years ago.

'Not too late' to prevent 'runaway climate change': EU

The European Union said on Monday it has imposed sanctions on eight Nicaraguans for human rights violations or undermining democracy or the rule of law, including Rosario Murillo, the vice president and wife of President Daniel Ortega. 
 
The step adds to growing international isolation of Ortega's government, which has been criticised for crackdowns against his opponents and critical media in the Central American country he has dominated since returning to power 15 years ago. 
 
Ortega's government has arrested several political adversaries, including presidential hopefuls, ahead of a November election in which Ortega, a former Marxist guerrilla and Cold War antagonist of Washington, will run for a fourth consecutive term. 
 
Contenders from five parties on Monday registered with election authorities to enter the race, Nicaraguan media reported. By evening, no candidates had been put forward by the top opposition groups, whose leaders largely remain in detention. 
 
The EU move follows sanctions by the United States on senior officials in Nicaragua and other members of Ortega's family. 
 
The Council of the EU said the sanctions, which include an asset freeze and a travel ban that impedes the eight from entering or transiting through EU territories, brought to 14 the number of Nicaraguans restricted by the bloc. 
 
"The political situation in Nicaragua has further deteriorated in recent months," the Council said in a statement. 
 
"The political use of the judicial system, the exclusion of candidates from the elections and the arbitrary delisting of opposition parties are contrary to basic democratic principles and constitute a serious violation of the rights of the Nicaraguan people." 
 
The Council of the EU said the detention in July of a seventh potential presidential candidate "illustrates the magnitude of the repression in Nicaragua and projects a grim picture for the upcoming elections." 
 
Amnesty International on Monday called for rights violations in Nicaragua to be investigated, warning that Ortega had built a system of impunity likely to hamper fair elections. 
 
"The road to the elections will be plagued by repressive actions implemented to make it impossible for the population to exercise their political rights without fear of reprisals," Amnesty International said in a statement.

The European Union said on Monday it has imposed sanctions on eight Nicaraguans for human rights violations or undermining democracy or the rule of law, including Rosario Murillo, the vice president and wife of President Daniel Ortega.

The European Union said on Monday it has imposed sanctions on eight Nicaraguans for human rights violations or undermining democracy or the rule of law, including Rosario Murillo, the vice president and wife of President Daniel Ortega. The step adds to growing international isolation of Ortega's government, which has been criticised for crackdowns against his opponents and critical media in the Central American country he has dominated since returning to power 15 years ago. Ortega's government has arrested several political adversaries, including presidential hopefuls, ahead of a November election in which Ortega, a former Marxist guerrilla and Cold War antagonist of Washington, will run for a fourth consecutive term. Contenders from five parties on Monday registered with election authorities to enter the race, Nicaraguan media reported. By evening, no candidates had been put forward by the top opposition groups, whose leaders largely remain in detention. The EU move follows sanctions by the United States on senior officials in Nicaragua and other members of Ortega's family. The Council of the EU said the sanctions, which include an asset freeze and a travel ban that impedes the eight from entering or transiting through EU territories, brought to 14 the number of Nicaraguans restricted by the bloc. "The political situation in Nicaragua has further deteriorated in recent months," the Council said in a statement. "The political use of the judicial system, the exclusion of candidates from the elections and the arbitrary delisting of opposition parties are contrary to basic democratic principles and constitute a serious violation of the rights of the Nicaraguan people." The Council of the EU said the detention in July of a seventh potential presidential candidate "illustrates the magnitude of the repression in Nicaragua and projects a grim picture for the upcoming elections." Amnesty International on Monday called for rights violations in Nicaragua to be investigated, warning that Ortega had built a system of impunity likely to hamper fair elections. "The road to the elections will be plagued by repressive actions implemented to make it impossible for the population to exercise their political rights without fear of reprisals," Amnesty International said in a statement.

EU puts sanctions on 8 more Nicaraguans, as presidential race takes shape

The EU is legitimizing Iranian aggression by sending its deputy foreign affairs chief to the inauguration of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, says Israel.

'EU legitimising terror by sending diplomat to Raisi inauguration': Israel

The data also showed that 212,732,730 adults (above the age of 18) have received at least one dose of the vaccine while 167,310,628 adults have been fully immunised against the coronavirus disease in the EU.

COVID-19: More than 50% people in Europe fully vaccinated, claims EU

The UK government has urged the European Union to rewrite the trade deal with Northern Ireland. However, the European Union said that it would not agree to renegotiate the terms of the 2019 deal.

Brexit: UK calls for changes in Northern Ireland Protocol, EU rejects demand

Turkey on Sunday slammed a ruling by a top European Union court allowing the banning of headscarves under certain conditions as a "clear violation of religious freedoms", adding the move would exacerbate prejudices against Muslim women in Europe.

The Luxembourg-based EU Court of Justice (CJEU) ruled on Thursday that companies in the bloc can ban employees from wearing a headscarf under certain conditions if they need to do so to project an image of neutrality to customers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hijab-can-be-banned-at-work-under-certain-conditions-rules-eu-court-398237">Hijab can be banned at work under certain conditions, rules EU court</a>

The Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement the ruling was a sign of rising Islamophobia at a time when it said Muslim women in Europe are being subjected to increasing discrimination for their religious beliefs.

"The CJEU decision, at a time when the Islamophobia, racism and hatred that have taken Europe hostage are rising, disregards religious freedom and creates a basis and legal cover for discrimination," the ministry said.

On Saturday, the Turkish presidency's communication director Fahrettin Altun condemned the move, saying "this wrong decision is an attempt to grant legitimacy to racism."

The issue of the hijab, the traditional headscarf worn around the head and shoulders, has been divisive across Europe for years, underlining sharp differences over integrating Muslims.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/austrian-coalition-deal-includes-headscarf-ban-preventive-custody-report-271718">Austrian coalition deal includes headscarf ban, preventive custody: Report</a>

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan's Islamist-rooted AK Party, which came to power in 2002 blending a pro-Western, democratic market approach, has been criticised by Western allies in recent years for increasing authoritarianism and religious intolerance. The United States, Greece, Russia and church leaders expressed concern last year over his government's move to convert Istanbul's Hagia Sophia into a mosque last year.

Ankara has repeatedly accused European nations of not doing enough to prevent discrimination against Muslims, saying it will start publishing an annual report on what it calls examples of Islamophobia around the world.

In response to whether headscarf bans at work represented a violation of the freedom of religion, the CJEU said such bans were possible if justified by an employer's need to present a neutral image.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/politics-of-hijab-new-zealand-vs-the-world-343974">Politics of Hijab: New Zealand vs the world</a>

Ties between Ankara and the bloc have been strained over a host of issues, namely over a dispute between EU member Greece and Turkey over maritime jurisdiction and energy rights in the eastern Mediterranean.

Turkey on Sunday slammed a ruling by a top European Union court allowing the banning of headscarves under certain conditions as a "clear violation of religious freedoms", adding the move would exacerbate prejudices against Muslim women in Europe.

Turkey on Sunday slammed a ruling by a top European Union court allowing the banning of headscarves under certain conditions as a "clear violation of religious freedoms", adding the move would exacerbate prejudices against Muslim women in Europe. The Luxembourg-based EU Court of Justice (CJEU) ruled on Thursday that companies in the bloc can ban employees from wearing a headscarf under certain conditions if they need to do so to project an image of neutrality to customers. Also read | Hijab can be banned at work under certain conditions, rules EU court The Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement the ruling was a sign of rising Islamophobia at a time when it said Muslim women in Europe are being subjected to increasing discrimination for their religious beliefs. "The CJEU decision, at a time when the Islamophobia, racism and hatred that have taken Europe hostage are rising, disregards religious freedom and creates a basis and legal cover for discrimination," the ministry said. On Saturday, the Turkish presidency's communication director Fahrettin Altun condemned the move, saying "this wrong decision is an attempt to grant legitimacy to racism." The issue of the hijab, the traditional headscarf worn around the head and shoulders, has been divisive across Europe for years, underlining sharp differences over integrating Muslims. Also read | Austrian coalition deal includes headscarf ban, preventive custody: Report Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan's Islamist-rooted AK Party, which came to power in 2002 blending a pro-Western, democratic market approach, has been criticised by Western allies in recent years for increasing authoritarianism and religious intolerance. The United States, Greece, Russia and church leaders expressed concern last year over his government's move to convert Istanbul's Hagia Sophia into a mosque last year. Ankara has repeatedly accused European nations of not doing enough to prevent discrimination against Muslims, saying it will start publishing an annual report on what it calls examples of Islamophobia around the world. In response to whether headscarf bans at work represented a violation of the freedom of religion, the CJEU said such bans were possible if justified by an employer's need to present a neutral image. Also read | Politics of Hijab: New Zealand vs the world Ties between Ankara and the bloc have been strained over a host of issues, namely over a dispute between EU member Greece and Turkey over maritime jurisdiction and energy rights in the eastern Mediterranean.

Turkey condemns EU court ruling on headscarf ban as violation of freedoms

The EU's disease agency said Friday it was predicting a sharp increase in coronavirus cases, with nearly five times as many new infections by August 1.&nbsp;

The expected rise in cases was linked to the highly transmissible Delta variant, first identified in India, along with the relaxing of measures in European countries.&nbsp;

In its coverage area -- which includes the European Union, Norway and Iceland -- the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) expected to see 420 cases per 100,000 inhabitants for the week ending on August 1, up from just under 90 last week, it said in a weekly report.

By the week after, the number of new cases is expected to rise above 620 per 100,000 inhabitants.

"The current continuing deterioration of the epidemiological situation in many countries is expected to continue given the rapid increase in the Delta variant," the ECDC said in the report.

Hospitalisations and deaths are also expected, although at a slower pace, according to the ECDC, thanks to the rollout of vaccination campaigns.

Currently, hospitalisations remain stable in most countries but the number of deaths associated with Covid-19 is expected to exceed 10 per 1,000,000 inhabitants again, compared with 6.8 last week, the agency noted.

The ECDC said it was forecasting&nbsp;increasing cases in 20 countries and increased deaths in nine: Cyprus, Greece, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovenia and Spain.

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"In the most affected countries, the steepest increases and highest notification rates were reported among 15 to 24-year-olds, with limited increases in persons aged over 65 years," the ECDC said in a statement.

While these figures are projection the level is in line with that seen during the peaks in the second half of 2020 and April 2021, according to the EU agency's data.

Between July 5 and 11, the number of new cases in the European Union jumped by over 60 per cent, increasing for the second week in a row, according to the ECDC, due to "relaxation of non-pharmaceutical interventions and increasing spread of Delta variant" first detected in India.

Last month, the Stockholm-based agency warned that the Delta variant was on track to account for 90 per cent of new cases by the end of August.

The EU's disease agency said Friday it was predicting a sharp increase in coronavirus cases, with nearly five times as many new infections by August 1. The expected rise in cases was linked to the highly transmissible Delta variant, first identified in India, along with the relaxing of measures in European countries.

The EU's disease agency said Friday it was predicting a sharp increase in coronavirus cases, with nearly five times as many new infections by August 1. The expected rise in cases was linked to the highly transmissible Delta variant, first identified in India, along with the relaxing of measures in European countries. In its coverage area -- which includes the European Union, Norway and Iceland -- the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) expected to see 420 cases per 100,000 inhabitants for the week ending on August 1, up from just under 90 last week, it said in a weekly report. By the week after, the number of new cases is expected to rise above 620 per 100,000 inhabitants. "The current continuing deterioration of the epidemiological situation in many countries is expected to continue given the rapid increase in the Delta variant," the ECDC said in the report. Hospitalisations and deaths are also expected, although at a slower pace, according to the ECDC, thanks to the rollout of vaccination campaigns. Currently, hospitalisations remain stable in most countries but the number of deaths associated with Covid-19 is expected to exceed 10 per 1,000,000 inhabitants again, compared with 6.8 last week, the agency noted. The ECDC said it was forecasting increasing cases in 20 countries and increased deaths in nine: Cyprus, Greece, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovenia and Spain. Also read | WHO proposes second phase of studies into the origins of COVID-19 in China "In the most affected countries, the steepest increases and highest notification rates were reported among 15 to 24-year-olds, with limited increases in persons aged over 65 years," the ECDC said in a statement. While these figures are projection the level is in line with that seen during the peaks in the second half of 2020 and April 2021, according to the EU agency's data. Between July 5 and 11, the number of new cases in the European Union jumped by over 60 per cent, increasing for the second week in a row, according to the ECDC, due to "relaxation of non-pharmaceutical interventions and increasing spread of Delta variant" first detected in India. Last month, the Stockholm-based agency warned that the Delta variant was on track to account for 90 per cent of new cases by the end of August.

EU disease agency predicts spike in COVID-19 cases by August 1

European Council President Charles Michel said on Saturday that the European Union supported international efforts to ease tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Both countries fought a war last year over Nagorno-Karabakh region.

On a visit to Yerevan, Michel expressed "the European Union's support for the Minsk Group" -- which consists of French, Russian and US diplomats -- as mediators to the longstanding territorial dispute.&nbsp;

The war between Azerbaijan and Armenia claimed 6500 lives. It ended with a Russian-brokered ceasefire. Armenia had to cede territory it had controlled for decades.&nbsp;

Since May, tensions are running high again. Armenia has accused Azerbaijan military of crossing its southern border. Both countries have reported occasional shootouts along their shared border

The European Council's President called on the Minsk Group "to assume its responsibilities and address different topics" of the post-conflict settlement.

The Minsk Group has been largely inactive since the ceasefire as Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev had insisted "the Karabakh conflict has been resolved for good" and has rejected Yerevan's calls to negotiate on the region's political status.&nbsp;

Populated by ethnic Armenians, Karabakh is internationally recognised as part of Azerbaijan.

Ethnic Armenian separatists in Nagorno-Karabakh broke away from Azerbaijan as the Soviet Union collapsed, and the ensuing conflict has claimed around 30,000 lives.

Yerevan was the first leg of Michel's regional tour of the South Caucasus. He is due to meet Aliyev in Baku on Sunday and to hold Monday talks with the leaders of Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine in Georgia's Black Sea city of Batumi.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

European Council President Charles Michel said on Saturday that the European Union supported international efforts to ease tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

European Council President Charles Michel said on Saturday that the European Union supported international efforts to ease tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Both countries fought a war last year over Nagorno-Karabakh region. On a visit to Yerevan, Michel expressed "the European Union's support for the Minsk Group" -- which consists of French, Russian and US diplomats -- as mediators to the longstanding territorial dispute. The war between Azerbaijan and Armenia claimed 6500 lives. It ended with a Russian-brokered ceasefire. Armenia had to cede territory it had controlled for decades. Since May, tensions are running high again. Armenia has accused Azerbaijan military of crossing its southern border. Both countries have reported occasional shootouts along their shared border The European Council's President called on the Minsk Group "to assume its responsibilities and address different topics" of the post-conflict settlement. The Minsk Group has been largely inactive since the ceasefire as Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev had insisted "the Karabakh conflict has been resolved for good" and has rejected Yerevan's calls to negotiate on the region's political status. Populated by ethnic Armenians, Karabakh is internationally recognised as part of Azerbaijan. Ethnic Armenian separatists in Nagorno-Karabakh broke away from Azerbaijan as the Soviet Union collapsed, and the ensuing conflict has claimed around 30,000 lives. Yerevan was the first leg of Michel's regional tour of the South Caucasus. He is due to meet Aliyev in Baku on Sunday and to hold Monday talks with the leaders of Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine in Georgia's Black Sea city of Batumi. (With inputs from agencies)

EU backs international mediation in Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict

Companies may ban Muslim employees from wearing a headscarf under certain conditions, the European Union's top court said on Thursday in a ruling on two cases brought by women in Germany who were suspended from their jobs for wearing one.

The issue of the hijab, the traditional headscarf worn around the head and shoulders, has caused controversy across Europe for years and underlined sharp differences over integrating Muslims.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/austrian-coalition-deal-includes-headscarf-ban-preventive-custody-report-271718">Austrian coalition deal includes headscarf ban, preventive custody: Report</a>

In the cases brought to court, both Muslim women - a special-needs carer at a childcare centre in Hamburg run by a charitable association, and a cashier at the Mueller drugstore chain - did not wear&nbsp;headscarves&nbsp;when they started in their jobs but decided to do so years later after coming back from parental leave.

They were told that this was not allowed, and were at different points either suspended, told to come to work without it or put on a different job, court documents show.

The EU court had to decide in both cases whether headscarf bans at work represented a violation of the freedom of religion or were allowed as part of the freedom to conduct a business and they wish to project an image of neutrality to customers.

It responded that such bans were possible if justified by an employer's need to present a neutral image.

"A prohibition on wearing any visible form of expression of political, philosophical or religious beliefs in the workplace may be justified by the employer's need to present a neutral image towards customers or to prevent social disputes," the court said.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/frances-marine-le-pen-proposes-a-ban-on-muslim-headscarf-360498/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, that justification must correspond to a genuine need on the part of the employer, it said.

In the care centre employee case, the court said the rule at issue appeared to have been applied in a general and undifferentiated way since the employer also required an employee wearing a religious cross to remove that sign.

In both cases, it will now be up to national courts to have the final say on whether there was any discrimination.

The EU court already ruled in 2017 that companies may ban staff from wearing Islamic&nbsp;headscarves&nbsp;and other visible religious symbols under certain conditions, sparking a backlash among faith groups.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/employers-can-ban-headscarves-in-workplace-top-eu-court-rules-13360">Employers can ban headscarves in workplace, top EU court rules</a>

More than 5 million Muslims live in Germany, making them the largest religious minority group there.

Headscarf bans for women at work have been a hotly contested issue in Germany for years, mostly concerning aspiring teachers at state schools and trainee judges. This has not so far been a major theme in the campaign for this year's legislative elections.

Elsewhere in Europe, courts have also had to look into where and how&nbsp;headscarves&nbsp;can sometimes be banned at work.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/austrian-mps-approve-headscarf-ban-in-primary-schools-219081">Austrian MPs approve headscarf ban in primary schools</a>

France's top court upheld in 2014 the dismissal of a Muslim daycare worker for wearing a headscarf at a private crèche that demanded strict neutrality from employees. France, home to Europe's largest Muslim minority, prohibited wearing Islamic&nbsp;headscarves&nbsp;in state schools in 2004.

However, Austria's constitutional court has ruled that a law there banning girls aged up to 10 from wearing&nbsp;headscarves&nbsp;in schools was discriminatory.

Companies may ban Muslim employees from wearing a headscarf under certain conditions, the European Union's top court said on Thursday in a ruling on two cases brought by women in Germany who were suspended from their jobs for wearing one.

Companies may ban Muslim employees from wearing a headscarf under certain conditions, the European Union's top court said on Thursday in a ruling on two cases brought by women in Germany who were suspended from their jobs for wearing one. The issue of the hijab, the traditional headscarf worn around the head and shoulders, has caused controversy across Europe for years and underlined sharp differences over integrating Muslims. Also read | Austrian coalition deal includes headscarf ban, preventive custody: Report In the cases brought to court, both Muslim women - a special-needs carer at a childcare centre in Hamburg run by a charitable association, and a cashier at the Mueller drugstore chain - did not wear headscarves when they started in their jobs but decided to do so years later after coming back from parental leave. They were told that this was not allowed, and were at different points either suspended, told to come to work without it or put on a different job, court documents show. The EU court had to decide in both cases whether headscarf bans at work represented a violation of the freedom of religion or were allowed as part of the freedom to conduct a business and they wish to project an image of neutrality to customers. It responded that such bans were possible if justified by an employer's need to present a neutral image. "A prohibition on wearing any visible form of expression of political, philosophical or religious beliefs in the workplace may be justified by the employer's need to present a neutral image towards customers or to prevent social disputes," the court said. However, that justification must correspond to a genuine need on the part of the employer, it said. In the care centre employee case, the court said the rule at issue appeared to have been applied in a general and undifferentiated way since the employer also required an employee wearing a religious cross to remove that sign. In both cases, it will now be up to national courts to have the final say on whether there was any discrimination. The EU court already ruled in 2017 that companies may ban staff from wearing Islamic headscarves and other visible religious symbols under certain conditions, sparking a backlash among faith groups. Also read | Employers can ban headscarves in workplace, top EU court rules More than 5 million Muslims live in Germany, making them the largest religious minority group there. Headscarf bans for women at work have been a hotly contested issue in Germany for years, mostly concerning aspiring teachers at state schools and trainee judges. This has not so far been a major theme in the campaign for this year's legislative elections. Elsewhere in Europe, courts have also had to look into where and how headscarves can sometimes be banned at work. Also read | Austrian MPs approve headscarf ban in primary schools France's top court upheld in 2014 the dismissal of a Muslim daycare worker for wearing a headscarf at a private crèche that demanded strict neutrality from employees. France, home to Europe's largest Muslim minority, prohibited wearing Islamic headscarves in state schools in 2004. However, Austria's constitutional court has ruled that a law there banning girls aged up to 10 from wearing headscarves in schools was discriminatory.

Hijab can be banned at work under certain conditions, rules EU court

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