The European Union on Monday imposed sanctions on members of Myanmar's junta, who took control of the country in a February 1 coup, as well as its new information minister and two conglomerates controlled by the military.&nbsp;

In its firmest response yet to the ousting of an elected government led by Nobel peace laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, the EU said nine members of the junta's State Administration Council, formed the day after the coup, had been targeted with travel bans and asset freezes. So was information minister U Chit Naing.&nbsp;

The decision, first reported on March 8 and April 15, puts the leaders of the junta and their top administrators under sanctions and follows similar measures by the United States. Myanmar Commander in Chief Min Aung Hlaing and Myint Swe, who has been acting president since the coup, were blacklisted by the EU last month.&nbsp;

Myanmar's State Administration Council was 'responsible for undermining democracy and the rule of law', the EU said in its Official Journal.&nbsp;

"The military forces and authorities operating under the control of the SAC have committed serious human rights violations since February 1, 2021, killing civilian and unarmed protesters," the EU said.&nbsp;

The EU also moved to target two companies that generate revenue for the Myanmar Armed Forces, a robust step following on from sanctions on 11 senior military officials, including the commander in chief, last month. The EU has an arms embargo on Myanmar.&nbsp;

Myanma Economic Holdings Limited (MEHL) and Myanmar Economic Corporation (MEC) were targeted with sanctions on Monday, barring EU investors and banks from doing business with them. Human rights groups had called for them to be sanctioned.&nbsp;

"MEHL and its subsidiaries generate revenue (for the military), therefore contributing to its capabilities to carry out activities undermining democracy and the rule of law and to serious human rights violations in Myanmar," the EU said. It made the same charges against MEC.&nbsp;

The conglomerates are spread throughout the economy from mining and manufacturing to food and beverages to hotels, telecoms and banking. They rank among the country's biggest taxpayers and sought partnerships with foreign companies as Myanmar opened up during the democratic liberalisation.&nbsp;

Like several Western powers, the EU has condemned the coup and called for the restoration of civilian rule.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The European Union on Monday imposed sanctions on members of Myanmar's junta, who took control of the country in a February 1 coup, as well as its new information minister and two conglomerates controlled by the military.

The European Union on Monday imposed sanctions on members of Myanmar's junta, who took control of the country in a February 1 coup, as well as its new information minister and two conglomerates controlled by the military. In its firmest response yet to the ousting of an elected government led by Nobel peace laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, the EU said nine members of the junta's State Administration Council, formed the day after the coup, had been targeted with travel bans and asset freezes. So was information minister U Chit Naing. The decision, first reported on March 8 and April 15, puts the leaders of the junta and their top administrators under sanctions and follows similar measures by the United States. Myanmar Commander in Chief Min Aung Hlaing and Myint Swe, who has been acting president since the coup, were blacklisted by the EU last month. Myanmar's State Administration Council was 'responsible for undermining democracy and the rule of law', the EU said in its Official Journal. "The military forces and authorities operating under the control of the SAC have committed serious human rights violations since February 1, 2021, killing civilian and unarmed protesters," the EU said. The EU also moved to target two companies that generate revenue for the Myanmar Armed Forces, a robust step following on from sanctions on 11 senior military officials, including the commander in chief, last month. The EU has an arms embargo on Myanmar. Myanma Economic Holdings Limited (MEHL) and Myanmar Economic Corporation (MEC) were targeted with sanctions on Monday, barring EU investors and banks from doing business with them. Human rights groups had called for them to be sanctioned. "MEHL and its subsidiaries generate revenue (for the military), therefore contributing to its capabilities to carry out activities undermining democracy and the rule of law and to serious human rights violations in Myanmar," the EU said. It made the same charges against MEC. The conglomerates are spread throughout the economy from mining and manufacturing to food and beverages to hotels, telecoms and banking. They rank among the country's biggest taxpayers and sought partnerships with foreign companies as Myanmar opened up during the democratic liberalisation. Like several Western powers, the EU has condemned the coup and called for the restoration of civilian rule. (With inputs from agencies)

EU hits Myanmar junta members, two military companies with sanctions 

Europe’s drug regulator on Tuesday said that it had found a possible link between Johnson &amp; Johnson coronavirus vaccine and blood clots. Multiple blood clots were reported among adults who took the J&amp;J vaccine in the United States.

The European Medicines Agency (EMA)’s safety committee on Tuesday concluded that there exists a link between unusual blood clots with low blood platelets and the vaccine. It also said that the warning should be added to the vaccine’s labels.

In addition, the EMA ascertained that all instances of blood clots were reported in adults aged below 60, mostly women.

They developed the clots three weeks after the vaccination. It also took into account the eight cases of blood clots that were reported in the United States.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/jj-reports-100-million-in-vaccine-sales-as-results-top-forecasts-378829" hreflang="en">J&amp;J reports $100 million in vaccine sales as results top forecasts</a>

Similar to the AstraZeneca vaccine, most blood clots took place in the brain and the abdomen. Even then, the agency reiterated that the benefits of the vaccines largely outweigh the risks.

The United States is also expected to announce its decision on the single-shot J&amp;J vaccine by Friday, as nations around the world try to accelerate their rollouts and revive their pandemic-ravaged economies.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/france-sticks-to-plan-to-give-jj-vaccine-to-over-55s-377554" hreflang="en">France sticks to plan to give J&amp;J vaccine to over 55s</a>

Top US pandemic advisor Anthony Fauci described the clots as 'an extraordinarily rare event'.&nbsp;

Most countries around the world are accelerating vaccination efforts to stop the chain of transmission.

(With inputs from agencies)

Europe’s drug regulator on Tuesday said that it had found a possible link between Johnson & Johnson coronavirus vaccine and blood clots. Multiple blood clots were reported among adults who took the J&J vaccine in the United States.

Europe’s drug regulator on Tuesday said that it had found a possible link between Johnson & Johnson coronavirus vaccine and blood clots. Multiple blood clots were reported among adults who took the J&J vaccine in the United States. The European Medicines Agency (EMA)’s safety committee on Tuesday concluded that there exists a link between unusual blood clots with low blood platelets and the vaccine. It also said that the warning should be added to the vaccine’s labels. In addition, the EMA ascertained that all instances of blood clots were reported in adults aged below 60, mostly women. They developed the clots three weeks after the vaccination. It also took into account the eight cases of blood clots that were reported in the United States. Also read: J&J reports $100 million in vaccine sales as results top forecasts Similar to the AstraZeneca vaccine, most blood clots took place in the brain and the abdomen. Even then, the agency reiterated that the benefits of the vaccines largely outweigh the risks. The United States is also expected to announce its decision on the single-shot J&J vaccine by Friday, as nations around the world try to accelerate their rollouts and revive their pandemic-ravaged economies. Also read: France sticks to plan to give J&J vaccine to over 55s Top US pandemic advisor Anthony Fauci described the clots as 'an extraordinarily rare event'. Most countries around the world are accelerating vaccination efforts to stop the chain of transmission. (With inputs from agencies)

EU finds link between blood clots and Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine

The European Union announced sanctions on 10 Myanmar junta officials and two conglomerates linked to the military over the coup and bloody crackdown on protesters in their country.

EU sanctions 10 Myanmar junta officials, 2 firms

European Union negotiators will on Tuesday seek a deal on a law to make the bloc's emissions-cutting goals legally binding, as it seeks to cement its claim to be a global climate leader ahead of a summit of global powers this week.

The EU is racing to finish its climate law ahead of a US-hosted summit on Thursday and Friday, when the White House will urge world leaders to make tougher pledges to protect the planet.

Europe's commitments to cut greenhouse gas emissions have so far outstripped those of most major emitters, and the EU hopes to raise the leadership bar by enshrining more ambitious targets in law. Only a handful of countries, including Britain, have made their climate goals legally binding.

Negotiators from EU countries and the European Parliament meet on Tuesday to attempt to finish the law containing the EU's goal to eliminate its net emissions by 2050, and a 2030 target to cut emissions faster than previously planned.

"It would be a missed opportunity to show the world that we really do mean business," Danish climate minister Dan Jorgensen said of the possibility that Tuesday's talks would not yield a deal. He said there was no risk the EU would backtrack on a minimum EU target agreed in December to cut net emissions at least 55% by 2030, from 1990 levels.

The main quarrel in Tuesday's negotiations will be whether that goal should be more ambitious. The European Parliament wants a 60% cut in outright emissions.

"I'm absolutely hoping for a deal," Jytte Guteland, Parliament's lead negotiator, said. "But this net target is not ambitious enough."

Member states will moot a compromise on Tuesday to limit the amount of emissions removals that can be counted towards the 2030 target, according to EU officials and documents seen by Reuters.

That could soothe some lawmakers' concerns that polluting sectors would be let off the hook by a net target that can be met by reducing the CO2 produced by sectors like energy or industry, or by removing CO2 from the atmosphere through carbon-absorbing forests and wetlands.

European Union negotiators will on Tuesday seek a deal on a law to make the bloc's emissions-cutting goals legally binding, as it seeks to cement its claim to be a global climate leader ahead of a summit of global powers this week.

European Union negotiators will on Tuesday seek a deal on a law to make the bloc's emissions-cutting goals legally binding, as it seeks to cement its claim to be a global climate leader ahead of a summit of global powers this week. The EU is racing to finish its climate law ahead of a US-hosted summit on Thursday and Friday, when the White House will urge world leaders to make tougher pledges to protect the planet. Europe's commitments to cut greenhouse gas emissions have so far outstripped those of most major emitters, and the EU hopes to raise the leadership bar by enshrining more ambitious targets in law. Only a handful of countries, including Britain, have made their climate goals legally binding. Negotiators from EU countries and the European Parliament meet on Tuesday to attempt to finish the law containing the EU's goal to eliminate its net emissions by 2050, and a 2030 target to cut emissions faster than previously planned. "It would be a missed opportunity to show the world that we really do mean business," Danish climate minister Dan Jorgensen said of the possibility that Tuesday's talks would not yield a deal. He said there was no risk the EU would backtrack on a minimum EU target agreed in December to cut net emissions at least 55% by 2030, from 1990 levels. The main quarrel in Tuesday's negotiations will be whether that goal should be more ambitious. The European Parliament wants a 60% cut in outright emissions. "I'm absolutely hoping for a deal," Jytte Guteland, Parliament's lead negotiator, said. "But this net target is not ambitious enough." Member states will moot a compromise on Tuesday to limit the amount of emissions removals that can be counted towards the 2030 target, according to EU officials and documents seen by Reuters. That could soothe some lawmakers' concerns that polluting sectors would be let off the hook by a net target that can be met by reducing the CO2 produced by sectors like energy or industry, or by removing CO2 from the atmosphere through carbon-absorbing forests and wetlands.

EU seeks deal on climate change law, ahead of world leaders' summit

Europe's drug regulator was expected to rule on Tuesday on the safety of the Johnson &amp; Johnson Covid-19 vaccine after fears it could be linked to extremely rare blood clots, while India said it will make shots available to all adults as it battles a terrifying wave of infections.&nbsp;

The United States is also expected to announce its decision on the single-shot J&amp;J vaccine by Friday, as nations around the world try to accelerate their rollouts and revive their pandemic-ravaged economies.&nbsp;

The European Medicines Agency was due to hold a press conference from Amsterdam on Tuesday, after reviewing four cases, one fatal, of rare blood clots reported among people, who got the J&amp;J shot.&nbsp;

But the number of reported clots were 'extremely small' compared with the 4.5 million J&amp;J shots administered worldwide, the EMA has said.&nbsp;

That comparison echoes the comments by top US pandemic advisor Anthony Fauci, who described the clots as 'an extraordinarily rare event'.&nbsp;

Fauci said on Sunday, he believed the US would resume use of the jab, possibly with some restrictions or warnings.&nbsp;

The J&amp;J vaccine concerns follow similar reports of blood clots in a very small number of people, who received the AstraZeneca shot.&nbsp;

The EMA described those clots as a 'very rare' side effect, stressing that the AstraZeneca jab's benefits outweigh the risks.&nbsp;

The leaders of Europe are keen to accelerate vaccinations and expand availability after facing intense criticism over a sluggish rollout and with the public desperate for a return to some degree of normality.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Europe's drug regulator was expected to rule on Tuesday on the safety of the Johnson & Johnson Covid-19 vaccine after fears it could be linked to extremely rare blood clots, while India said it will make shots available to all adults as it battles a terrifying wave of infections.

Europe's drug regulator was expected to rule on Tuesday on the safety of the Johnson & Johnson Covid-19 vaccine after fears it could be linked to extremely rare blood clots, while India said it will make shots available to all adults as it battles a terrifying wave of infections. The United States is also expected to announce its decision on the single-shot J&J vaccine by Friday, as nations around the world try to accelerate their rollouts and revive their pandemic-ravaged economies. The European Medicines Agency was due to hold a press conference from Amsterdam on Tuesday, after reviewing four cases, one fatal, of rare blood clots reported among people, who got the J&J shot. But the number of reported clots were 'extremely small' compared with the 4.5 million J&J shots administered worldwide, the EMA has said. That comparison echoes the comments by top US pandemic advisor Anthony Fauci, who described the clots as 'an extraordinarily rare event'. Fauci said on Sunday, he believed the US would resume use of the jab, possibly with some restrictions or warnings. The J&J vaccine concerns follow similar reports of blood clots in a very small number of people, who received the AstraZeneca shot. The EMA described those clots as a 'very rare' side effect, stressing that the AstraZeneca jab's benefits outweigh the risks. The leaders of Europe are keen to accelerate vaccinations and expand availability after facing intense criticism over a sluggish rollout and with the public desperate for a return to some degree of normality. (With inputs from agencies)

EU to rule on Johnson & Johnson vaccine’s safety  

More than 14,000 people have died in seven years of fighting between Ukrainian forces and Russia-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine that erupted after Russia’s 2014 annexation of Ukraine’s Crimean Peninsula.

EU warns spark could set off escalation at Ukraine borders

The EU's internal markets commissioner Thierry Breton hinted Sunday that the bloc might decide not to order AstraZeneca's coronavirus jab again following delays in delivering the first batches of the vaccine.

"We're pragmatic. My priority, as far as the vaccines are concerned, is to ensure that the firms we have contracts with deliver them punctually," Breton told BFMTV television.&nbsp;

Brussels had originally ordered 120 million doses of the Anglo-Swedish group's jab for the 27 member states in the first quarter and 180 million in the second quarter.

But the drug maker &nbsp;"only delivered 30 million, thus creating the problems that everyone has seen," Breton said.

And only another 70 million will be delivered in the second quarter, he continued, but added: "Nothing is decided. Talks are still ongoing".

The EU commissioner insisted that any such decision would "not be for epidemiological or medical reasons".

"When looking at the data, the benefits of the AstraZeneca vaccine outweigh the disease," he said.&nbsp;

French industry minister Agnes Pannier-Runacher had suggested on Friday that the EU might not renew its contract with AstraZeneca in 2022 after Denmark became the first European country to stop using the jab altogether over suspected rare but serious side effects.

While other countries also suspended its use, at least temporarily, most have subsequently resumed after the European Medicines Agency (EMA), emphasised the benefits of the vaccine, judging it "safe and effective".&nbsp;

Pannier-Runacher said that the EU had "not started discussions with Johnson &amp; Johnson and with AstraZeneca for a new contract, whereas we have already started discussions with Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna", the makers of two other vaccines on the market in Europe.&nbsp;

EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen also said this week that German biotech firm BioNTech and US pharma giant Pfizer had shown themselves to be "reliable partners, who have honoured their commitments and have reacted quickly with regard to our needs".&nbsp;

In France, 23 cases and eight deaths have been reported of rare blood clots after taking the AstraZeneca jab, out of more than 2.7 million doses administered so far.

Nevertheless, Alain Fischer, an immunologist who heads the government's vaccination advisory board, told French radio on Sunday the benefits of the jab for people aged 55 and over "very much outweighed the risks" of possible complications.

The EU's internal markets commissioner Thierry Breton hinted Sunday that the bloc might decide not to order AstraZeneca's coronavirus jab again following delays in delivering the first batches of the vaccine.

The EU's internal markets commissioner Thierry Breton hinted Sunday that the bloc might decide not to order AstraZeneca's coronavirus jab again following delays in delivering the first batches of the vaccine. "We're pragmatic. My priority, as far as the vaccines are concerned, is to ensure that the firms we have contracts with deliver them punctually," Breton told BFMTV television. Brussels had originally ordered 120 million doses of the Anglo-Swedish group's jab for the 27 member states in the first quarter and 180 million in the second quarter. But the drug maker "only delivered 30 million, thus creating the problems that everyone has seen," Breton said. And only another 70 million will be delivered in the second quarter, he continued, but added: "Nothing is decided. Talks are still ongoing". The EU commissioner insisted that any such decision would "not be for epidemiological or medical reasons". "When looking at the data, the benefits of the AstraZeneca vaccine outweigh the disease," he said. French industry minister Agnes Pannier-Runacher had suggested on Friday that the EU might not renew its contract with AstraZeneca in 2022 after Denmark became the first European country to stop using the jab altogether over suspected rare but serious side effects. While other countries also suspended its use, at least temporarily, most have subsequently resumed after the European Medicines Agency (EMA), emphasised the benefits of the vaccine, judging it "safe and effective". Pannier-Runacher said that the EU had "not started discussions with Johnson & Johnson and with AstraZeneca for a new contract, whereas we have already started discussions with Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna", the makers of two other vaccines on the market in Europe. EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen also said this week that German biotech firm BioNTech and US pharma giant Pfizer had shown themselves to be "reliable partners, who have honoured their commitments and have reacted quickly with regard to our needs". In France, 23 cases and eight deaths have been reported of rare blood clots after taking the AstraZeneca jab, out of more than 2.7 million doses administered so far. Nevertheless, Alain Fischer, an immunologist who heads the government's vaccination advisory board, told French radio on Sunday the benefits of the jab for people aged 55 and over "very much outweighed the risks" of possible complications.

EU hints it might not order AstraZeneca jab again

The EU and US jointly called on lawmakers in Georgia to sign on to a compromise agreement to be proposed Sunday to resolve a protracted political crisis in the Caucasus country.

"The European Union and the United States call on all members of Georgia's parliament to sign the agreement that European Council President (Charles) Michel will propose today," the joint statement by spokespeople for EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell and the US State Department said.

The united EU-US front on the issue underlined growing consultation between Brussels and Washington on regions skirting Russia's southern and western borders.

Georgia, an ex-Soviet country that sits to the east of Europe, has been in the grip of a crisis since parliamentary polls in October, which the opposition said were rigged to keep the ruling Georgian Dream party in power.

Opposition parties have demanded snap elections and refused to enter the newly elected parliament.&nbsp;

The crisis deepened in February with the arrest and trial of the leader of the main opposition grouping, Nika Melia, on accusations of fomenting violence during 2019 anti-government protests.

Georgia's prime minister resigned and thousands of opposition supporters rallied in the capital Tbilisi in February to protest Melia's arrest.

EU chief Michel has taken on a mediation role between Georgia's government and opposition to try to rein in the tensions and prevent a perceived backsliding on democracy commitments by the country.

'Courage' needed

The EU-US statement said the compromise agreement to be unveiled was one that all Georgian lawmakers would be able to sign up to "in good faith".&nbsp;

But it said they would need to demonstrate "courage" by backing it over partisan considerations.

The statement said the proposed reforms would bolster the independence of Georgia's judiciary, improve electoral processes and contribute to "a parliament that can better reflect the voices of all people of Georgia".

The proposed agreement, posted to the website of the European External Action Service headed by Borrell, stated its aims as helping Georgia meet challenges thrown up by the Covid pandemic and addressing its "security and stability interests in the midst of regional challenges".

It commits signatories to, within a week, resolving cases of "perceived politicised justice" from the 2019 protests through amnesties or similar measures for convictions, and requiring more than a simple majority to lift parliamentary immunity.

"The parties acknowledge their differing assessment of the 2020 elections and agree to take up their parliamentary mandates and participate in future elections on the basis of the electoral reform agreed here," it says.

It calls for "fully proportional" elections for parliament and "clear criteria" for ballot recounts, as well as allowing "trusted invited domestic and international experts" to review election disputes, among a raft of other proposals to be completed before local elections in October.

Early parliamentary elections should be called in 2022 if the Georgian Dream party scores less than 43 per cent in the October polls, it says.&nbsp;

Power-sharing in parliament, under which opposition MPs would chair five committees, including key ones relating to either foreign relations, rights, or budget, is also set out.

The text also stipulates reforms to improve the judicial system with a pause on appointments to the supreme court until new legislation is passed ensuring better transparency, to be adopted within a year.&nbsp;

The EU and US jointly called on lawmakers in Georgia to sign on to a compromise agreement to be proposed Sunday to resolve a protracted political crisis in the Caucasus country.

The EU and US jointly called on lawmakers in Georgia to sign on to a compromise agreement to be proposed Sunday to resolve a protracted political crisis in the Caucasus country. "The European Union and the United States call on all members of Georgia's parliament to sign the agreement that European Council President (Charles) Michel will propose today," the joint statement by spokespeople for EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell and the US State Department said. The united EU-US front on the issue underlined growing consultation between Brussels and Washington on regions skirting Russia's southern and western borders. Georgia, an ex-Soviet country that sits to the east of Europe, has been in the grip of a crisis since parliamentary polls in October, which the opposition said were rigged to keep the ruling Georgian Dream party in power. Opposition parties have demanded snap elections and refused to enter the newly elected parliament. The crisis deepened in February with the arrest and trial of the leader of the main opposition grouping, Nika Melia, on accusations of fomenting violence during 2019 anti-government protests. Georgia's prime minister resigned and thousands of opposition supporters rallied in the capital Tbilisi in February to protest Melia's arrest. EU chief Michel has taken on a mediation role between Georgia's government and opposition to try to rein in the tensions and prevent a perceived backsliding on democracy commitments by the country. 'Courage' needed The EU-US statement said the compromise agreement to be unveiled was one that all Georgian lawmakers would be able to sign up to "in good faith". But it said they would need to demonstrate "courage" by backing it over partisan considerations. The statement said the proposed reforms would bolster the independence of Georgia's judiciary, improve electoral processes and contribute to "a parliament that can better reflect the voices of all people of Georgia". The proposed agreement, posted to the website of the European External Action Service headed by Borrell, stated its aims as helping Georgia meet challenges thrown up by the Covid pandemic and addressing its "security and stability interests in the midst of regional challenges". It commits signatories to, within a week, resolving cases of "perceived politicised justice" from the 2019 protests through amnesties or similar measures for convictions, and requiring more than a simple majority to lift parliamentary immunity. "The parties acknowledge their differing assessment of the 2020 elections and agree to take up their parliamentary mandates and participate in future elections on the basis of the electoral reform agreed here," it says. It calls for "fully proportional" elections for parliament and "clear criteria" for ballot recounts, as well as allowing "trusted invited domestic and international experts" to review election disputes, among a raft of other proposals to be completed before local elections in October. Early parliamentary elections should be called in 2022 if the Georgian Dream party scores less than 43 per cent in the October polls, it says. Power-sharing in parliament, under which opposition MPs would chair five committees, including key ones relating to either foreign relations, rights, or budget, is also set out. The text also stipulates reforms to improve the judicial system with a pause on appointments to the supreme court until new legislation is passed ensuring better transparency, to be adopted within a year.

EU, US call on Georgia lawmakers to sign compromise pact

The Czech Republic said on Sunday it had informed NATO and European Union allies about suspected Russian involvement in a 2014 ammunition depot explosion and the matter would be addressed at an EU foreign ministers' meeting on Monday.&nbsp;

The central European country expelled 18 Russian embassy staff on Saturday over the issue and said investigations had linked Russian intelligence to the explosion, which killed two people. &nbsp;

Russia's Interfax news agency cited Vladimir Dzhabarov, first deputy head of the Russian upper house's international affairs committee, on Saturday as saying Prague's assertions were absurd and Russia's response should be proportionate.&nbsp;

The expulsions and allegations come at a time of heightened Russian-Western tensions and have triggered the biggest dispute between the Czechs and Russia since the 1989 end of Communist rule, when Prague was under Moscow's domination for decades.&nbsp;

On Sunday, the EU’s executive commission confirmed remarks by acting Czech Foreign Minister Jan Hamacek on Twitter that the dispute would be addressed during a previously schedule EU foreign ministers' video conference on Monday.&nbsp;

Separately, Czech police said they were searching for two men in connection with serious criminal activity, who were carrying Russian passports in the names of Alexander Petrov and Ruslan Boshirov, and that the men were in the country in the days leading up to the 2014 explosion.&nbsp;

Those were the aliases used by two Russian military intelligence (GRU) officers, who British prosecutors charged with the attempted poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia with the nerve agent Novichok in the English city of Salisbury in 2018. Moscow denied involvement in that incident. &nbsp;

The United States and Britain said they stood in full solidarity with the Czech Republic in the dispute with Russia.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Czech Republic said on Sunday it had informed NATO and European Union allies about suspected Russian involvement in a 2014 ammunition depot explosion and the matter would be addressed at an EU foreign ministers' meeting on Monday.

The Czech Republic said on Sunday it had informed NATO and European Union allies about suspected Russian involvement in a 2014 ammunition depot explosion and the matter would be addressed at an EU foreign ministers' meeting on Monday. The central European country expelled 18 Russian embassy staff on Saturday over the issue and said investigations had linked Russian intelligence to the explosion, which killed two people. Russia's Interfax news agency cited Vladimir Dzhabarov, first deputy head of the Russian upper house's international affairs committee, on Saturday as saying Prague's assertions were absurd and Russia's response should be proportionate. The expulsions and allegations come at a time of heightened Russian-Western tensions and have triggered the biggest dispute between the Czechs and Russia since the 1989 end of Communist rule, when Prague was under Moscow's domination for decades. On Sunday, the EU’s executive commission confirmed remarks by acting Czech Foreign Minister Jan Hamacek on Twitter that the dispute would be addressed during a previously schedule EU foreign ministers' video conference on Monday. Separately, Czech police said they were searching for two men in connection with serious criminal activity, who were carrying Russian passports in the names of Alexander Petrov and Ruslan Boshirov, and that the men were in the country in the days leading up to the 2014 explosion. Those were the aliases used by two Russian military intelligence (GRU) officers, who British prosecutors charged with the attempted poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia with the nerve agent Novichok in the English city of Salisbury in 2018. Moscow denied involvement in that incident. The United States and Britain said they stood in full solidarity with the Czech Republic in the dispute with Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

EU to discuss alleged Russian link to 2014 blast in Czech Republic 

According to the reports, EU Commission has decided not to renew COVID-19 vaccine contracts next year with AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson (J&J).

Report: EU to end AstraZeneca and J&J vaccine contracts at expiry

EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen announced plans on Wednesday for a major contract extension for Covid-19 vaccines with Pfizer stretching to 2023.&nbsp;

In a sign of confidence in a company that has been a mainstay of Europe's vaccination drive so far, von der Leyen said the EU will start negotiating to buy 1.8 billion doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine through 2023.&nbsp;

Von der Leyen expressed full confidence in the technology used for the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, which is different from the technology behind the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine.&nbsp;

"We need to focus on the technologies that have proven their worth," von der Leyen said.&nbsp;

Pfizer-BioNTech plans to provide the EU with an extra 50 million dozes in the second quarter of this year, on top of 200 million doses already earmarked for the bloc. The deliveries will be especially welcomed by the EU's 27 member nations considering supply delays and concerns over rare blood clots potentially linked to the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine. &nbsp;

Denmark decided on Wednesday not to resume use of AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine after putting it on hold last month following reports of rare blood clots in some recipients. The bulk of the shots given in the Scandinavian country so far have been the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine.&nbsp;

The European Commission currently has a portfolio of 2.3 billion doses from a half dozen companies and is negotiating more contracts.&nbsp;

The planned negotiations with Pfizer left in the middle what the EU would do about any new contracts with AstraZeneca, which has had massive delivery problems during the first quarter and expects to send far fewer vaccines than its contract with the EU called for during the second quarter. &nbsp;

The European Commission said in a statement, "We keep all options open to be prepared for the next stages of the pandemic, for 2022 and beyond. We can, however, not comment on contractual issues." Von der Leyen, however, showed her full support for Pfizer-BioNTech, with the announcement for the massive order. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen announced plans on Wednesday for a major contract extension for Covid-19 vaccines with Pfizer stretching to 2023. In a sign of confidence in a company that has been a mainstay of Europe's vaccination drive so far, von der Leyen said the EU will start negotiating to buy 1.

EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen announced plans on Wednesday for a major contract extension for Covid-19 vaccines with Pfizer stretching to 2023. In a sign of confidence in a company that has been a mainstay of Europe's vaccination drive so far, von der Leyen said the EU will start negotiating to buy 1.8 billion doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine through 2023. Von der Leyen expressed full confidence in the technology used for the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, which is different from the technology behind the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine. "We need to focus on the technologies that have proven their worth," von der Leyen said. Pfizer-BioNTech plans to provide the EU with an extra 50 million dozes in the second quarter of this year, on top of 200 million doses already earmarked for the bloc. The deliveries will be especially welcomed by the EU's 27 member nations considering supply delays and concerns over rare blood clots potentially linked to the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine. Denmark decided on Wednesday not to resume use of AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine after putting it on hold last month following reports of rare blood clots in some recipients. The bulk of the shots given in the Scandinavian country so far have been the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. The European Commission currently has a portfolio of 2.3 billion doses from a half dozen companies and is negotiating more contracts. The planned negotiations with Pfizer left in the middle what the EU would do about any new contracts with AstraZeneca, which has had massive delivery problems during the first quarter and expects to send far fewer vaccines than its contract with the EU called for during the second quarter. The European Commission said in a statement, "We keep all options open to be prepared for the next stages of the pandemic, for 2022 and beyond. We can, however, not comment on contractual issues." Von der Leyen, however, showed her full support for Pfizer-BioNTech, with the announcement for the massive order. (With inputs from agencies)

EU looks to buy 1.8 billion doses of Pfizer vaccine through 2023 

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will return to Brussels this week for discussions on Iran, Afghanistan and Russian activities directed at Ukraine, a US official said.&nbsp;

Blinken will join US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin in Brussels. The official, speaking on condition of anonymity on Saturday, did not release additional details on the trip. &nbsp;

Austin was scheduled to visit NATO headquarters in Belgium on a trip that started on Saturday and also includes Israel, Germany and Britain, the Pentagon said last week.&nbsp;

The trip by two of President Joe Biden's Cabinet members coincides with increasing tensions over Russian activities near Ukraine's eastern border, where Washington says Russia has amassed more troops than at any time since 2014, when it annexed Crimea.&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine on Friday of "dangerous provocative actions" in Ukraine's eastern Donbass region.&nbsp;

Turkey, a NATO ally, said on Friday the United States would deploy two warships to the Black Sea from April 14-15.&nbsp;

Blinken first visited Brussels in March for talks with European Union and NATO allies and pledged to rebuild and revitalise trans-Atlantic alliances.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will return to Brussels this week for discussions on Iran, Afghanistan and Russian activities directed at Ukraine, a US official said.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will return to Brussels this week for discussions on Iran, Afghanistan and Russian activities directed at Ukraine, a US official said. Blinken will join US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin in Brussels. The official, speaking on condition of anonymity on Saturday, did not release additional details on the trip. Austin was scheduled to visit NATO headquarters in Belgium on a trip that started on Saturday and also includes Israel, Germany and Britain, the Pentagon said last week. The trip by two of President Joe Biden's Cabinet members coincides with increasing tensions over Russian activities near Ukraine's eastern border, where Washington says Russia has amassed more troops than at any time since 2014, when it annexed Crimea. Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine on Friday of "dangerous provocative actions" in Ukraine's eastern Donbass region. Turkey, a NATO ally, said on Friday the United States would deploy two warships to the Black Sea from April 14-15. Blinken first visited Brussels in March for talks with European Union and NATO allies and pledged to rebuild and revitalise trans-Atlantic alliances.

Blinken to return to Brussels for talks on Ukraine, Afghanistan 

The European Union's top diplomat said on Sunday, Russia and China were hampering a united international response to Myanmar's military coup and that the EU could offer more economic incentives if democracy returns to the country.&nbsp;

"It comes as no surprise that Russia and China are blocking the attempts of the UN Security Council, for example to impose an arms embargo," EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said in a blog post.&nbsp;

"Geopolitical competition in Myanmar will make it very difficult to find common ground," said Borrell, who speaks on behalf of the 27 EU member states. "But we have a duty to try."&nbsp;

Borrell said security forces have killed more than 550 unarmed protesters, including 46 children, in a bloody crackdown since the military seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in a February 1 coup. &nbsp;

"The world watches in horror, as the army uses violence against its own people," he said.&nbsp;

China and Russia both have ties to Myanmar's armed forces, as the first and second largest suppliers of weapons to the country, respectively.&nbsp;

The UN Security Council last week called for the release of Suu Kyi and others detained by the military but stopped short of condemning the coup.&nbsp;

The EU is preparing fresh sanctions on individuals and companies owned by the Myanmar military. The bloc in March agreed a first set of sanctions on 11 individuals linked to the coup, including the commander-in-chief of the military.&nbsp;

While EU economic leverage in the country is relatively small, Borrell said the EU could offer to increase its economic ties with Myanmar if democracy is restored. That could include more trade and investments in sustainable development, he said.&nbsp;

EU foreign direct investment in Myanmar totalled $700 million in 2019, compared with $19 billion from China.&nbsp;

The military says it staged the coup because a November election won by Suu Kyi’s party was rigged. The election commission has dismissed the assertion.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The European Union's top diplomat said on Sunday, Russia and China were hampering a united international response to Myanmar's military coup and that the EU could offer more economic incentives if democracy returns to the country.

The European Union's top diplomat said on Sunday, Russia and China were hampering a united international response to Myanmar's military coup and that the EU could offer more economic incentives if democracy returns to the country. "It comes as no surprise that Russia and China are blocking the attempts of the UN Security Council, for example to impose an arms embargo," EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said in a blog post. "Geopolitical competition in Myanmar will make it very difficult to find common ground," said Borrell, who speaks on behalf of the 27 EU member states. "But we have a duty to try." Borrell said security forces have killed more than 550 unarmed protesters, including 46 children, in a bloody crackdown since the military seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in a February 1 coup. "The world watches in horror, as the army uses violence against its own people," he said. China and Russia both have ties to Myanmar's armed forces, as the first and second largest suppliers of weapons to the country, respectively. The UN Security Council last week called for the release of Suu Kyi and others detained by the military but stopped short of condemning the coup. The EU is preparing fresh sanctions on individuals and companies owned by the Myanmar military. The bloc in March agreed a first set of sanctions on 11 individuals linked to the coup, including the commander-in-chief of the military. While EU economic leverage in the country is relatively small, Borrell said the EU could offer to increase its economic ties with Myanmar if democracy is restored. That could include more trade and investments in sustainable development, he said. EU foreign direct investment in Myanmar totalled $700 million in 2019, compared with $19 billion from China. The military says it staged the coup because a November election won by Suu Kyi’s party was rigged. The election commission has dismissed the assertion. (With inputs from agencies)

China, Russia undermine international Myanmar response: EU's top diplomat  

The European Union’s first female chief, Ursula von der Leyen, was left speechless after the president of the European Council, Charles Michel, the former Belgian prime minister and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan took the chairs, one of which was supposed to be Ursula’s.

Ursula was left shocked and can also be heard using the expression of “Uhm?” in the videos. As Michel refused to show any evidence of regret, Von der Leyen had to settle at the second-rank seat on the sofa opposite Turkey’s foreign minister.

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"Ehm" is the new term for "that’s not how EU-Turkey relationship should be". <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GiveHerASeat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GiveHerASeat</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EU?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EU</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Turkey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Turkey</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/womensrights?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#womensrights</a> <a href="https://t.co/vGVFutDu0S">pic.twitter.com/vGVFutDu0S</a>
— Sergey Lagodinsky (@SLagodinsky) <a href="https://twitter.com/SLagodinsky/status/1379483767161622535?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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An interesting thing is that the discussion was about women’s equal rights as Turkey had withdrawn from a convention on gender-based violence.

Even after such disrespect, the German head did not walk away from the meeting and continued raising her voice for equal rights. “The president’s assertiveness was clearly on display in that she did not walk away from the meeting, she took part in the meeting, and played her full role,” her spokesperson said.

This act has been taken as a breaking of the protocol as the rules for European Council’s President are similar to those of any country’s president.

“The president of the commission was clearly surprised and that is something you can see from the video … The protocol level of our president is exactly the same as that of the president of the European council,” Von der Leyen’s spokesperson said. “The president expects that the institution that she represents to be treated with the required protocol and she has therefore asked her team to take all appropriate contacts in order to ensure that such an incident does not occur in the future.”

Shortly after this, Italy’s Prime Minister Mario Draghi has accused the Turkish leader of humiliating his EU counterpart and has also labelled him a “dictator”.

“I absolutely do not agree with Erdoğan’s behavior towards president Von der Leyen … I think it was not appropriate behavior and I was very sorry for the humiliation Von der Leyen had to suffer,” Draghi said.

“With these, let’s call them what they are – dictators – with whom one nonetheless has to coordinate, one has to be frank when expressing different visions and opinions,” he added.

Soon after his remarks, the Italian ambassador to Ankara was summoned. The foreign minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu also struck back at Italy’s remarks.

“We strongly condemn the appointed Italian prime minister Draghi’s unacceptable, populist discourse and his ugly and unrestrained comments about our elected president,” Çavuşoğlu tweeted.

The European Union’s first female chief, Ursula von der Leyen, was left speechless after the president of the European Council, Charles Michel, the former Belgian prime minister and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan took the chairs, one of which was supposed to be Ursula’s.

The European Union’s first female chief, Ursula von der Leyen, was left speechless after the president of the European Council, Charles Michel, the former Belgian prime minister and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan took the chairs, one of which was supposed to be Ursula’s. Ursula was left shocked and can also be heard using the expression of “Uhm?” in the videos. As Michel refused to show any evidence of regret, Von der Leyen had to settle at the second-rank seat on the sofa opposite Turkey’s foreign minister. "Ehm" is the new term for "that’s not how EU-Turkey relationship should be". #GiveHerASeat #EU #Turkey #womensrights pic.twitter.com/vGVFutDu0S — Sergey Lagodinsky (@SLagodinsky) April 6, 2021 × An interesting thing is that the discussion was about women’s equal rights as Turkey had withdrawn from a convention on gender-based violence. Even after such disrespect, the German head did not walk away from the meeting and continued raising her voice for equal rights. “The president’s assertiveness was clearly on display in that she did not walk away from the meeting, she took part in the meeting, and played her full role,” her spokesperson said. This act has been taken as a breaking of the protocol as the rules for European Council’s President are similar to those of any country’s president. “The president of the commission was clearly surprised and that is something you can see from the video … The protocol level of our president is exactly the same as that of the president of the European council,” Von der Leyen’s spokesperson said. “The president expects that the institution that she represents to be treated with the required protocol and she has therefore asked her team to take all appropriate contacts in order to ensure that such an incident does not occur in the future.” Shortly after this, Italy’s Prime Minister Mario Draghi has accused the Turkish leader of humiliating his EU counterpart and has also labelled him a “dictator”. “I absolutely do not agree with Erdoğan’s behavior towards president Von der Leyen … I think it was not appropriate behavior and I was very sorry for the humiliation Von der Leyen had to suffer,” Draghi said. “With these, let’s call them what they are – dictators – with whom one nonetheless has to coordinate, one has to be frank when expressing different visions and opinions,” he added. Soon after his remarks, the Italian ambassador to Ankara was summoned. The foreign minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu also struck back at Italy’s remarks. “We strongly condemn the appointed Italian prime minister Draghi’s unacceptable, populist discourse and his ugly and unrestrained comments about our elected president,” Çavuşoğlu tweeted.

'Dictator': Turkey and Italy get into spat after EU chief left without chair during equal rights talk

Two Presidents went to Turkey on an official visit, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan offered a chair only to the man. European Commission Chief Ursula Von der Leyen was left with no place to sit. What happened next? WION's Palki brings you the details of Turkey's diplomatic faux pas.

Gravitas: Turkey's diplomatic faux pas

&nbsp;Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison has asked the European Union (EU) to allow the shipping of the 3.1 million outstanding AstraZeneca&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine</a> to Australia.

Acknowledging the recent reports and rumours, Morrison also said that his government had not made many rosy assessments in front of the public about the state of its coronavirus vaccine rollout.

While demanding the EU releases the shipping of the vaccines, Morrison also stressed that he had not made any criticism of the EU over its handling of this matter.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-global-death-toll-surpasses-3-million-amid-resurgence-of-infections-375787" hreflang="en">Coronavirus global death toll surpasses 3 million amid resurgence</a>

The Morrison government had issued a report accusing the European Commission of "arguing semantics" by claiming that the EU had blocked nearly 250,000 doses of the coronavirus vaccine from coming to Australia.

It also claimed that the commission had hinted about blocking other applications to export vaccine doses from the region too.

The government also claimed that the EU has failed to respond to any of Australia’s requests for one million AstraZeneca doses to be made available to Papua New Guinea —one of the worst-hit countries in the region.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-mecca-only-vaccine-pilgrims-allowed-375780">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-mecca-only-vaccine-pilgrims-allowed-375780/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"I can assure you that the first million of those will be used to support the humanitarian effort that we're putting in place for Papua New Guinea," Morrison said.

However, Scott Morrison has denied blaming the EU for the shortfall of the vaccine in Australia. "I want to stress that at no time yesterday did I make any comment about the actions of the European Union,"&nbsp;he told the reporters. "Any suggestion that I, in any way, made any criticism of the European Union yesterday would be completely incorrect."

His statement came after Morrison claimed that nearly 3.1 million doses of vaccine had not come through due to EU’s block.

"It's straightforward maths. 3.1 million out of 3.8 million doses did not come to Australia,"&nbsp;he said. "That obviously had a very significant impact on the early rollout of the vaccination program."

He has stressed that there is no conflict between Australia and the EU. "I mean, all I’ve simply done today is set out very clearly that 3.1 million vaccines didn’t arrive in Australia," he said. "It’s not a dispute. It’s not a conflict. It’s not an argument. It’s not a clash. It’s just a simple fact. And I’m simply explaining to the Australian public that supply issues is what’s constraining and has constrained, particularly over the recent months, the overall rollout of the vaccine."

&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison has asked the European Union (EU) to allow the shipping of the 3.1 million outstanding AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine to Australia.

Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison has asked the European Union (EU) to allow the shipping of the 3.1 million outstanding AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine to Australia. Acknowledging the recent reports and rumours, Morrison also said that his government had not made many rosy assessments in front of the public about the state of its coronavirus vaccine rollout. While demanding the EU releases the shipping of the vaccines, Morrison also stressed that he had not made any criticism of the EU over its handling of this matter. Also read | Coronavirus global death toll surpasses 3 million amid resurgence The Morrison government had issued a report accusing the European Commission of "arguing semantics" by claiming that the EU had blocked nearly 250,000 doses of the coronavirus vaccine from coming to Australia. It also claimed that the commission had hinted about blocking other applications to export vaccine doses from the region too. The government also claimed that the EU has failed to respond to any of Australia’s requests for one million AstraZeneca doses to be made available to Papua New Guinea —one of the worst-hit countries in the region. Watch | "I can assure you that the first million of those will be used to support the humanitarian effort that we're putting in place for Papua New Guinea," Morrison said. However, Scott Morrison has denied blaming the EU for the shortfall of the vaccine in Australia. "I want to stress that at no time yesterday did I make any comment about the actions of the European Union," he told the reporters. "Any suggestion that I, in any way, made any criticism of the European Union yesterday would be completely incorrect." His statement came after Morrison claimed that nearly 3.1 million doses of vaccine had not come through due to EU’s block. "It's straightforward maths. 3.1 million out of 3.8 million doses did not come to Australia," he said. "That obviously had a very significant impact on the early rollout of the vaccination program." He has stressed that there is no conflict between Australia and the EU. "I mean, all I’ve simply done today is set out very clearly that 3.1 million vaccines didn’t arrive in Australia," he said. "It’s not a dispute. It’s not a conflict. It’s not an argument. It’s not a clash. It’s just a simple fact. And I’m simply explaining to the Australian public that supply issues is what’s constraining and has constrained, particularly over the recent months, the overall rollout of the vaccine." (With inputs from agencies)

PM Scott Morrison denies blaming EU for Australia's slow AstraZeneca vaccine rollout

The top European Union officials have raised “deep worries” over Turkey's decision to pull out of a convention to combat violence against women and the launch of a formal attempt to shut down the country’s main pro-Kurdish party.

EU Chiefs raise 'deep worries' over rights in Turkey with President Erdogan

The European Union has censured a US decision to label Yemen's Houthis as terrorists. US State Secretary Mike Pompeo had made this announcement on Sunday.

EU & UN slams US over labelling Yemen rebels as terrorists

When Europe shifts right, there are no half measures.

It's a full-on plunge into populism, expansionism and ethnic-racial politics.

The last time, this happened, the world suffered as ruthless dictators ran riot, free nations were invaded and millions died.

Watch&nbsp;|&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-european-leaders-discuss-right-wing-alliance-375063/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Today as the European left fails to deliver, the European right is re-emerging.

But what are its ambitions this time? Will the continent once again be carved up on ideological lines?

Let's first look at some context.

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/world/european-union-denounces-chinas-harassment-of-foreign-journalists-374990">European Union denounces China's 'harassment' of foreign journalists</a>

On Thursday, three powerful right-leaning politicians met in Budapest, the Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, Polish PM Mateusz Morawiecki and Italian leader Matteo Salvini.

They were laying the groundwork for a new European project, a right-leaning political grouping within the continent.

This isn't a new idea and the EU parliament already has a right-leaning alliance.

It is led by the European People's Party, but last month, Orban quit this alliance.

He feels it is playing second fiddle to the European left.

The question is what unites this proposed alliance?

Orban briefly touched upon this, the NATO, Europe's Atlantic commitment and liberty, dignity, Christianity, family and national sovereignty.

The recent wave of migration into Europe has multiplied the continent's diversity.

This has come with its own drawbacks like radicalisation and a series of Islamist attacks.

Leaders like Orban believe in the singularity of Europe and Christianity.

His new alliance would champion a Christian Europe.

Orban also talks about family and it makes sense from a Christian perspective.

The Hungarian PM is not a fan of abortion or gay rights and during his tenure, he has limited both.

Poland recently enforced a near-total ban on abortion.

And in Italy, Salvini is known for making rounds at anti-abortion conferences.

Europe's right-wing dream is basically a conservative Christian kingdom.

Does this mean a withdrawal from the European Union? The Polish prime minister doesn't think so.

In fact, he says the alliance wants to boost solidarity.

"We want to promote solidarity but not at the expense of weaker (nations). Europe should not dictate the stronger ones, those who are bigger or stronger today. European solidarity should be based on common values," he said.&nbsp;

"Europe should not dictate," is a popular slogan in Eastern Europe.

Beyond the cosmetics in Brussels, the EU is an endless bureaucratic pit.

There are tens of thousands of standards that include the size of a loaf of bread, the length of the exhaust pipe on your car, amongst more.&nbsp;

But there is an upside to this as the regulations extend to democratic practices like freedom of speech.

Brussels has long accused Orban of running Hungary into lawlessness.

The Hungarian PM does not appreciate this evaluation.

There is no single reason for this right-wing renaissance which is a combination of anti-migration rhetoric, the self-glorifying politics of the left and an aversion to a multi-cultural Europe.

However, forging this alliance won't be easy.

Both Orban and Salvini are close to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Poland on the other hand has a love-hate relationship with Moscow and so navigating the Russian question will not be easy.

Europe is fertile ground for right-wing politics, a trend that was reinforced by the pandemic.

The EU effectively cut off vaccine trade and spent big bucks to sweep up millions of doses.

These are classic right-wing strategies.

Orban and his allies are playing to a gallery that is already on its feet applauding.

The ambitions of this new alliance are clear, which is a conservative Europe with regressive controls on citizens.

The EU has long dictated other countries on policies.

So is it going to disown these three members? The chances are highly unlikely.&nbsp;

But if this new alliance does materialise, we could see some heated face-offs in the European Parliament.

And with the wave of right-wing populism spreading across Europe, such a political divide could be the end of European solidarity or whatever is left of it.

When Europe shifts right, there are no half measures. It's a full-on plunge into populism, expansionism and ethnic-racial politics. The last time, this happened, the world suffered as ruthless dictators ran riot, free nations were invaded and millions died.

When Europe shifts right, there are no half measures. It's a full-on plunge into populism, expansionism and ethnic-racial politics. The last time, this happened, the world suffered as ruthless dictators ran riot, free nations were invaded and millions died. Watch | Today as the European left fails to deliver, the European right is re-emerging. But what are its ambitions this time? Will the continent once again be carved up on ideological lines? Let's first look at some context. Also read | European Union denounces China's 'harassment' of foreign journalists On Thursday, three powerful right-leaning politicians met in Budapest, the Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, Polish PM Mateusz Morawiecki and Italian leader Matteo Salvini. They were laying the groundwork for a new European project, a right-leaning political grouping within the continent. This isn't a new idea and the EU parliament already has a right-leaning alliance. It is led by the European People's Party, but last month, Orban quit this alliance. He feels it is playing second fiddle to the European left. The question is what unites this proposed alliance? Orban briefly touched upon this, the NATO, Europe's Atlantic commitment and liberty, dignity, Christianity, family and national sovereignty. The recent wave of migration into Europe has multiplied the continent's diversity. This has come with its own drawbacks like radicalisation and a series of Islamist attacks. Leaders like Orban believe in the singularity of Europe and Christianity. His new alliance would champion a Christian Europe. Orban also talks about family and it makes sense from a Christian perspective. The Hungarian PM is not a fan of abortion or gay rights and during his tenure, he has limited both. Poland recently enforced a near-total ban on abortion. And in Italy, Salvini is known for making rounds at anti-abortion conferences. Europe's right-wing dream is basically a conservative Christian kingdom. Does this mean a withdrawal from the European Union? The Polish prime minister doesn't think so. In fact, he says the alliance wants to boost solidarity. "We want to promote solidarity but not at the expense of weaker (nations). Europe should not dictate the stronger ones, those who are bigger or stronger today. European solidarity should be based on common values," he said. "Europe should not dictate," is a popular slogan in Eastern Europe. Beyond the cosmetics in Brussels, the EU is an endless bureaucratic pit. There are tens of thousands of standards that include the size of a loaf of bread, the length of the exhaust pipe on your car, amongst more. But there is an upside to this as the regulations extend to democratic practices like freedom of speech. Brussels has long accused Orban of running Hungary into lawlessness. The Hungarian PM does not appreciate this evaluation. There is no single reason for this right-wing renaissance which is a combination of anti-migration rhetoric, the self-glorifying politics of the left and an aversion to a multi-cultural Europe. However, forging this alliance won't be easy. Both Orban and Salvini are close to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Poland on the other hand has a love-hate relationship with Moscow and so navigating the Russian question will not be easy. Europe is fertile ground for right-wing politics, a trend that was reinforced by the pandemic. The EU effectively cut off vaccine trade and spent big bucks to sweep up millions of doses. These are classic right-wing strategies. Orban and his allies are playing to a gallery that is already on its feet applauding. The ambitions of this new alliance are clear, which is a conservative Europe with regressive controls on citizens. The EU has long dictated other countries on policies. So is it going to disown these three members? The chances are highly unlikely. But if this new alliance does materialise, we could see some heated face-offs in the European Parliament. And with the wave of right-wing populism spreading across Europe, such a political divide could be the end of European solidarity or whatever is left of it.

As European right re-emerges, what are the ambitions now?

The European Union drug regulator said on Wednesday that it has not identified any "specific risk factors" of the Oxford-AstraZeneca <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus&nbsp;vaccine</a>, but is carrying out further analysis.&nbsp;

"At present, the review has not identified any specific risk factors, such as age, gender or a previous medical history of clotting disorders, for these very rare events," the European Medicines Agency in a statement said.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/germany-halts-use-of-astrazeneca-covid-19-vaccine-for-under-60s-374492/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The announcement comes after some European countries have limited its use only to the elderly population.&nbsp;

The German government on Tuesday said that Oxford-AstraZeneca's vaccine will be used only for over 60-year-olds after the country's regulatory body found "very rare but very serious cases of thrombosis".&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/biontech-pfizer-say-their-covid-19-vaccine-has-100-efficacy-in-12-15-year-olds-374524">BioNTech-Pfizer say their Covid-19 vaccine has 100% efficacy in 12-15 year olds</a>

Der Spiegel magazine on Tuesday reported that Germany's medicines regulator has confirmed 31 cases of blood clots in people vaccinated with the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine and nearly all cases were being detected in young and middle-aged women.

Canada on Monday also halted the drug's use for people under-55s "pending further analysis".&nbsp;

In France, the vaccine can only be used by people over 55s and Spain has taken the same measure for those under-65.&nbsp;

Earlier, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the EU's health body both have shrugged off blood clot fears related to the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, calling it safe to use after probes.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The European Union drug regulator said on Wednesday that it has not identified any "specific risk factors" of the Oxford-AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine, but is carrying out further analysis.

The European Union drug regulator said on Wednesday that it has not identified any "specific risk factors" of the Oxford-AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine, but is carrying out further analysis. "At present, the review has not identified any specific risk factors, such as age, gender or a previous medical history of clotting disorders, for these very rare events," the European Medicines Agency in a statement said. Watch | The announcement comes after some European countries have limited its use only to the elderly population. The German government on Tuesday said that Oxford-AstraZeneca's vaccine will be used only for over 60-year-olds after the country's regulatory body found "very rare but very serious cases of thrombosis". Also read | BioNTech-Pfizer say their Covid-19 vaccine has 100% efficacy in 12-15 year olds Der Spiegel magazine on Tuesday reported that Germany's medicines regulator has confirmed 31 cases of blood clots in people vaccinated with the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine and nearly all cases were being detected in young and middle-aged women. Canada on Monday also halted the drug's use for people under-55s "pending further analysis". In France, the vaccine can only be used by people over 55s and Spain has taken the same measure for those under-65. Earlier, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the EU's health body both have shrugged off blood clot fears related to the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, calling it safe to use after probes.

EU says no age-related risk of AstraZeneca vaccine found so far

European Union Chief Ursula von der Leyen said on Thursday that AstraZeneca needed to "catch up" on its COVID vaccine deliveries and could not export the vaccines out of the EU until the commitments are fulfilled.

"I think it is clear that first of all the company has to catch up, has to honour the contract it has with the European member states, before it can engage again in exporting vaccines," she told a news conference after an EU summit dominated by the bloc's struggling vaccination rollout.

These blunt words also threaten to deepen row with Britain as it is trying to secure AstraZeneca shipments from EU. This is being done to fill an abrupt hole in the supplies.

Brussels and London have both laid claim to vaccine stocks in an AstraZeneca factory in the Netherlands.

European Commission's stance of toughening rules on vaccine exports has not been received well in the UK but a joint statement by Britain and the EU said that both sides are looking to find a "win-win" solution.

(With AFP inputs)

European Union Chief Ursula von der Leyen said on Thursday that AstraZeneca needed to "catch up" on its COVID vaccine deliveries and could not export the vaccines out of the EU until the commitments are fulfilled.

European Union Chief Ursula von der Leyen said on Thursday that AstraZeneca needed to "catch up" on its COVID vaccine deliveries and could not export the vaccines out of the EU until the commitments are fulfilled. "I think it is clear that first of all the company has to catch up, has to honour the contract it has with the European member states, before it can engage again in exporting vaccines," she told a news conference after an EU summit dominated by the bloc's struggling vaccination rollout. These blunt words also threaten to deepen row with Britain as it is trying to secure AstraZeneca shipments from EU. This is being done to fill an abrupt hole in the supplies. Brussels and London have both laid claim to vaccine stocks in an AstraZeneca factory in the Netherlands. European Commission's stance of toughening rules on vaccine exports has not been received well in the UK but a joint statement by Britain and the EU said that both sides are looking to find a "win-win" solution. (With AFP inputs)

EU asks AstraZeneca to 'catch up' on COVID vaccine deliveries

Amid the recent spike in COVID-19 cases, the EU is holding a virtual vaccine summit in which leaders of the 27 member states are discussing possible measures to ramp up vaccination supply as well as inoculations across the block. French President Emmanuel Macron expresses frustration over the lagging vaccination drive during the summit.

EU Vaccine Summit: Macron expresses frustration over lagging vaccination drive

Amid the recent spike in COVID-19 cases, the EU is holding a virtual vaccine summit in which leaders of the 27 member states are discussing possible measures to ramp up vaccination supply as well as inoculations across the block.

Your Story: Vaccine failures cast shadow over EU summit as COVID surges

The European countries are now starting to raise their voices against the distribution of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine </a>and a slowed down rollout of the vaccines.

Talking about the problem of low rollout, the German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the European Union (EU) will have to figure out how to produce more vaccines on the European soil since she believes, the bloc's supply problems are more to do with lack of production capacity than with under-ordering.

"British production sites are manufacturing for Britain and the United States is not exporting, so we are reliant on what we can make in Europe," she said before the EU leaders' summit, scheduled on Thursday. "We have to assume that the virus, with its mutations, may be occupying us for a long time to come so the question goes far beyond this year."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I have presented to EU leaders the state of play on: 
 
Vaccines delivery &amp; vaccination in the EU 
Expectations regarding deliveries in the 2nd quarter 
Exports of vaccines from the EU to the rest of the world 
 
Together we will ensure that Europeans get their fair share of vaccines. <a href="https://t.co/8KCoK9ywU2">pic.twitter.com/8KCoK9ywU2</a>
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1375065964904075264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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She also warned the experts against not supplying vaccines to other parts of the world as she believes less supply of vaccines can lead to the birth of new mutations which may turn out to be vaccine-resistant.

"Because we can clearly see: British manufacturing plants manufacture for Great Britain, the US aren’t exporting anything, and therefore we rely on what can be produced in Europe and we have to expect this virus will preoccupy us for a long time," she said.

Her statement has come at a time when the US President, Joe Biden, will be meeting the 27 EU leaders virtually in a bid to mend ties with the EU, after four years of sour relations under the Trump administration.

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Looking forward to our discussions with EU leaders today: 
 
• Speeding up vaccination rollout 
• Forging the new 🇪🇺🇺🇸 agenda with <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a> 
• Encouraging Turkey to engage with the EU constructively 
• Addressing challenges posed by Russia <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EUCO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EUCO</a> <a href="https://t.co/M3amBY5rCX">pic.twitter.com/M3amBY5rCX</a>
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1375062168605970437?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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While Biden's appearance will be a good distraction, the EU leaders will still be focusing on their frustrations related to the slow sleep of vaccine rollout.

The EU leaders are angry that the UK-based pharma company AstraZeneca has not been able to fulfil the set delivery targets for Europe, while the UK has had smoother supplies.

The European countries are now starting to raise their voices against the distribution of coronavirus vaccine and a slowed down rollout of the vaccines. Talking about the problem of low rollout, the German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the European Union (EU) will have to figure out how to produce more vaccines on the European soil since she believes, the bloc's supply problems are more to do with lack of production capacity than with under-ordering.

The European countries are now starting to raise their voices against the distribution of coronavirus vaccine and a slowed down rollout of the vaccines. Talking about the problem of low rollout, the German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the European Union (EU) will have to figure out how to produce more vaccines on the European soil since she believes, the bloc's supply problems are more to do with lack of production capacity than with under-ordering. "British production sites are manufacturing for Britain and the United States is not exporting, so we are reliant on what we can make in Europe," she said before the EU leaders' summit, scheduled on Thursday. "We have to assume that the virus, with its mutations, may be occupying us for a long time to come so the question goes far beyond this year." I have presented to EU leaders the state of play on: Vaccines delivery & vaccination in the EU Expectations regarding deliveries in the 2nd quarter Exports of vaccines from the EU to the rest of the world Together we will ensure that Europeans get their fair share of vaccines. pic.twitter.com/8KCoK9ywU2 — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) March 25, 2021 × She also warned the experts against not supplying vaccines to other parts of the world as she believes less supply of vaccines can lead to the birth of new mutations which may turn out to be vaccine-resistant. "Because we can clearly see: British manufacturing plants manufacture for Great Britain, the US aren’t exporting anything, and therefore we rely on what can be produced in Europe and we have to expect this virus will preoccupy us for a long time," she said. Her statement has come at a time when the US President, Joe Biden, will be meeting the 27 EU leaders virtually in a bid to mend ties with the EU, after four years of sour relations under the Trump administration. Looking forward to our discussions with EU leaders today: • Speeding up vaccination rollout • Forging the new 🇪🇺🇺🇸 agenda with @POTUS @JoeBiden • Encouraging Turkey to engage with the EU constructively • Addressing challenges posed by Russia #EUCO pic.twitter.com/M3amBY5rCX — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) March 25, 2021 × While Biden's appearance will be a good distraction, the EU leaders will still be focusing on their frustrations related to the slow sleep of vaccine rollout. The EU leaders are angry that the UK-based pharma company AstraZeneca has not been able to fulfil the set delivery targets for Europe, while the UK has had smoother supplies.

As Biden meets EU leaders, Merkel calls for increased domestic vaccine production

The United States and European Nation have agreed to re-launch a bilateral dialogue on China and work together to address what they termed Russia's challenging behaviour.

EU, US agree to coordinate actions towards China

Danish toymaker Lego on Wednesday won the backing of Europe's second-highest court in its fight to secure design rights for its colourful snap-together plastic building bricks familiar to millions of children worldwide.&nbsp;

The Luxembourg-based General Court threw out a 2019 decision by the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) that sided with German toy and hardware maker Delta Sport Handelskontor, which had sought to declare Lego's design invalid.&nbsp;

Lego challenged that ruling at the court, which on Wednesday disagreed with the trademark agency's assessment.&nbsp;

"EUIPO erroneously declared invalid a design of a brick of a LEGO toy building set," judges said.&nbsp;

"EUIPO failed to examine the relevance of the application of the exception relied on by Lego and failed to take into consideration all the features of appearance of the brick," they said.&nbsp;

The trademark agency in its decision two years ago said the design of Lego bricks were solely dictated by their technical function, which is to allow assembly with, and disassembly from, the rest of the bricks of the set.&nbsp;

The court's decision can be appealed to the EU Court of Justice, Europe's highest. The case is T-515/19 Lego A/S v EUIPO and Delta Sport Handelskontor GmbH.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Danish toymaker Lego on Wednesday won the backing of Europe's second-highest court in its fight to secure design rights for its colourful snap-together plastic building bricks familiar to millions of children worldwide.

Danish toymaker Lego on Wednesday won the backing of Europe's second-highest court in its fight to secure design rights for its colourful snap-together plastic building bricks familiar to millions of children worldwide. The Luxembourg-based General Court threw out a 2019 decision by the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) that sided with German toy and hardware maker Delta Sport Handelskontor, which had sought to declare Lego's design invalid. Lego challenged that ruling at the court, which on Wednesday disagreed with the trademark agency's assessment. "EUIPO erroneously declared invalid a design of a brick of a LEGO toy building set," judges said. "EUIPO failed to examine the relevance of the application of the exception relied on by Lego and failed to take into consideration all the features of appearance of the brick," they said. The trademark agency in its decision two years ago said the design of Lego bricks were solely dictated by their technical function, which is to allow assembly with, and disassembly from, the rest of the bricks of the set. The court's decision can be appealed to the EU Court of Justice, Europe's highest. The case is T-515/19 Lego A/S v EUIPO and Delta Sport Handelskontor GmbH. (With inputs from agencies)

EU court backs Lego in German design rights case 

US President Joe Biden will join a video conference of European Union leaders on Thursday, a top EU official said, as both sides try to repair ties after four difficult years with former president Donald Trump.&nbsp;

"Looking forward to welcome @POTUS at this week's European Council meeting," European Council President Charles Michel, who chairs summits, said on Twitter. "I have invited the President of the US to join our meeting for him to share his views on our future cooperation. Time to rebuild our transatlantic alliance."&nbsp;

EU leaders will meet via video conference on Thursday and Friday to discuss vaccines, Russia, Turkey and industrial policy. Biden is expected to join at 1945 GMT, an EU spokesman said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday pledged to rebuild and revitalise the transatlantic military alliance after a bruising four years when Washington portrayed NATO as outdated, divided and in crisis. &nbsp;

The first top US official to visit NATO since President Joe Biden took office in January, Blinken said the alliance was at a pivotal moment but could emerge stronger after internal disputes over Turkey and Russian gas. &nbsp;

"I've come here to express the United States' steadfast commitment (to NATO)," Blinken told reporters as he met NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg. "The United States wants to rebuild our partnerships, first and foremost with our NATO allies, we want to revitalise the alliance." &nbsp;

After four years of friction with Washington under the presidency of Donald Trump, who said the alliance was obsolete and harangued allies over defence spending targets, NATO's European members have welcomed the change in tone, saying they are once again being consulted on strategy.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden will join a video conference of European Union leaders on Thursday, a top EU official said, as both sides try to repair ties after four difficult years with former president Donald Trump.

US President Joe Biden will join a video conference of European Union leaders on Thursday, a top EU official said, as both sides try to repair ties after four difficult years with former president Donald Trump. "Looking forward to welcome @POTUS at this week's European Council meeting," European Council President Charles Michel, who chairs summits, said on Twitter. "I have invited the President of the US to join our meeting for him to share his views on our future cooperation. Time to rebuild our transatlantic alliance." EU leaders will meet via video conference on Thursday and Friday to discuss vaccines, Russia, Turkey and industrial policy. Biden is expected to join at 1945 GMT, an EU spokesman said. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday pledged to rebuild and revitalise the transatlantic military alliance after a bruising four years when Washington portrayed NATO as outdated, divided and in crisis. The first top US official to visit NATO since President Joe Biden took office in January, Blinken said the alliance was at a pivotal moment but could emerge stronger after internal disputes over Turkey and Russian gas. "I've come here to express the United States' steadfast commitment (to NATO)," Blinken told reporters as he met NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg. "The United States wants to rebuild our partnerships, first and foremost with our NATO allies, we want to revitalise the alliance." After four years of friction with Washington under the presidency of Donald Trump, who said the alliance was obsolete and harangued allies over defence spending targets, NATO's European members have welcomed the change in tone, saying they are once again being consulted on strategy. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden to join EU leaders' video conference on Thursday

The European Union imposed sanctions on Monday on four Chinese officials, including a top security director, for human rights abuses in Xinjiang.

EU, China impose tit-for-tat sanctions over Xinjiang abuses

The European Union on Sunday (Indian time) urged Turkey to reverse its decision to withdraw from Istanbul Convention on women's rights. The treaty has been designed to prevent violence against women.

"Now is the time to show leadership and enhance global efforts to fight violence against women and girls, not to retreat. This is why we cannot but regret deeply and express incomprehension towards the decision of the Turkish government to withdraw from this convention that even bears the name of Istanbul. This decision risks compromising the protection and fundamental rights of women and girls in Turkey," said Josep Borrell, EU's foreign policy chief in a statement.

"The Istanbul Convention is the first international legally binding instrument to combat violence against women and domestic violence. It aims at ensuring essential legal protection to women and girls across the world. This is today more important than ever, as violence against women and girls has increased to new levels worldwide as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and of the many conflicts, where women are primary victims. We, therefore, cannot but urge Turkey to reverse its decision," he said further

Borrell said that Turkey's decision sent a dangerous message across the world. The Istanbul Convention is EU-backed human rights accord. Turkey was the first country to ratify the convention. It was adopted in Istanbul in 2011.&nbsp;

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's government declared Turkey's exit from the accord on March 20.

The European Union on Sunday (Indian time) urged Turkey to reverse its decision to withdraw from Istanbul Convention on women's rights. The treaty has been designed to prevent violence against women.

The European Union on Sunday (Indian time) urged Turkey to reverse its decision to withdraw from Istanbul Convention on women's rights. The treaty has been designed to prevent violence against women. "Now is the time to show leadership and enhance global efforts to fight violence against women and girls, not to retreat. This is why we cannot but regret deeply and express incomprehension towards the decision of the Turkish government to withdraw from this convention that even bears the name of Istanbul. This decision risks compromising the protection and fundamental rights of women and girls in Turkey," said Josep Borrell, EU's foreign policy chief in a statement. "The Istanbul Convention is the first international legally binding instrument to combat violence against women and domestic violence. It aims at ensuring essential legal protection to women and girls across the world. This is today more important than ever, as violence against women and girls has increased to new levels worldwide as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and of the many conflicts, where women are primary victims. We, therefore, cannot but urge Turkey to reverse its decision," he said further Borrell said that Turkey's decision sent a dangerous message across the world. The Istanbul Convention is EU-backed human rights accord. Turkey was the first country to ratify the convention. It was adopted in Istanbul in 2011. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's government declared Turkey's exit from the accord on March 20.

EU asks Turkey to rethink exit from women's rights treaty

Europe must take action as Lebanon collapses, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said, adding that he would press EU foreign ministers meeting on Monday to discuss solutions to the economic and political crisis in Beirut.&nbsp;

Paris has spearheaded international efforts to rescue the former French protectorate from its deepest crisis since the 1975-1990 civil war, but after seven months has failed so far to persuade squabbling politicians to adopt a reform roadmap or form a new government to unlock international aid.&nbsp;

The crisis has accelerated in recent days, with the currency plunging in value and some grocery shops temporarily shutting for lack of supplies. President Michel Aoun is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister-designate Saad al-Hariri later on Monday to try and break the deadlock in forming a government.&nbsp;

"France wishes that we discuss the Lebanon question," Le Drian said as he arrived at the EU foreign ministers' meeting. "The country is drifting away, divided ... when a country collapses, Europe must be ready."&nbsp;

French and Western diplomats have said that after months of stalemate, France is now ready to discuss the prospect of sanctions, at EU or national level, on senior Lebanese officials, although it is not likely to be immediate.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Europe must take action as Lebanon collapses, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said, adding that he would press EU foreign ministers meeting on Monday to discuss solutions to the economic and political crisis in Beirut.

Europe must take action as Lebanon collapses, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said, adding that he would press EU foreign ministers meeting on Monday to discuss solutions to the economic and political crisis in Beirut. Paris has spearheaded international efforts to rescue the former French protectorate from its deepest crisis since the 1975-1990 civil war, but after seven months has failed so far to persuade squabbling politicians to adopt a reform roadmap or form a new government to unlock international aid. The crisis has accelerated in recent days, with the currency plunging in value and some grocery shops temporarily shutting for lack of supplies. President Michel Aoun is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister-designate Saad al-Hariri later on Monday to try and break the deadlock in forming a government. "France wishes that we discuss the Lebanon question," Le Drian said as he arrived at the EU foreign ministers' meeting. "The country is drifting away, divided ... when a country collapses, Europe must be ready." French and Western diplomats have said that after months of stalemate, France is now ready to discuss the prospect of sanctions, at EU or national level, on senior Lebanese officials, although it is not likely to be immediate. (With inputs from agencies)

Europe must act as Lebanon collapses: France 

Foreign ministers of the European Union on Monday approved sanctions over abuses in China, Myanmar and Russia. The EU is expanding measures targetting global human rights breaches. The European Union is set to place four Chinese officials and one state-run entity on a blacklist. This is being done over Beijing's crackdown on Uighur Muslims.

The highly symbolic move -- reported by EU diplomats and expected to be formally unveiled in the EU's official journal later Monday -- is the first time Brussels has hit Beijing over human rights abuses since it imposed an arms embargo in 1989 after Tiananmen Square

"This is a very important step which shows how committed we are," Slovak Foreign Minister Ivan Korcok said.

China's foreign ministry has warned that Beijing will "react with a firm hand" against any punishment over its actions in the western Xinjiang region.&nbsp;

The measures are part of a package of human rights sanctions targeting a dozen people that also includes individuals in Russia, North Korea, Eritrea, South Sudan and Libya, diplomats said.

The mechanism -- designed to make it easier for the bloc to target rights abusers -- was launched this month with sanctions on four Russian officials over the jailing of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny.

Fresh sanctions on Russia will target individuals behind abuses in Chechnya. The region is ruled with an iron-fist by Kremlin loyalist Ramzan Kadyrov.

Myanmar has been in turmoil since the military ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1, triggering a mass uprising that security forces have sought to crush with a campaign of violence and fear.&nbsp;

Diplomats have said businesses tied to the military will likely be placed under sanctions in the coming weeks.

(With AFP inputs)

Foreign ministers of the European Union on Monday approved sanctions over abuses in China, Myanmar and Russia. The EU is expanding measures targetting global human rights breaches.

Foreign ministers of the European Union on Monday approved sanctions over abuses in China, Myanmar and Russia. The EU is expanding measures targetting global human rights breaches. The European Union is set to place four Chinese officials and one state-run entity on a blacklist. This is being done over Beijing's crackdown on Uighur Muslims. The highly symbolic move -- reported by EU diplomats and expected to be formally unveiled in the EU's official journal later Monday -- is the first time Brussels has hit Beijing over human rights abuses since it imposed an arms embargo in 1989 after Tiananmen Square "This is a very important step which shows how committed we are," Slovak Foreign Minister Ivan Korcok said. China's foreign ministry has warned that Beijing will "react with a firm hand" against any punishment over its actions in the western Xinjiang region. The measures are part of a package of human rights sanctions targeting a dozen people that also includes individuals in Russia, North Korea, Eritrea, South Sudan and Libya, diplomats said. The mechanism -- designed to make it easier for the bloc to target rights abusers -- was launched this month with sanctions on four Russian officials over the jailing of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny. Fresh sanctions on Russia will target individuals behind abuses in Chechnya. The region is ruled with an iron-fist by Kremlin loyalist Ramzan Kadyrov. Myanmar has been in turmoil since the military ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1, triggering a mass uprising that security forces have sought to crush with a campaign of violence and fear. Diplomats have said businesses tied to the military will likely be placed under sanctions in the coming weeks. (With AFP inputs)

EU approves sanctions on China, Myanmar over rights abuses

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