The Euro Zone economy contracted less than expected in the fourth quarter of 2020 amid pandemic-induced lockdowns, initial EU estimates showed that it is also heading for another, steeper decline in the first quarter of this year.

World Business Watch: Euro Zone fourth-quarter GDP falls less than expected

The European Union's vaccination programme is becoming a disaster, with the bloc having inoculated around 2 per cent of its population. EU's best-performing country - Denmark has managed to administer 4.47 doses per 100 people. Israel, for example, has vaccinated - 54.72 people for every hundred.

So, what's going on in Europe?

Europe's problems range from slow vaccine supply to slow approvals. The bloc is also caught in a scuffle with vaccine-maker AstraZeneca - after it said it won't be able to deliver the promised doses on time. AstraZeneca has decided to supply an additional 9 million doses of coronavirus drugs to the EU by March, taking the total to 40 million.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beware-of-fake-negative-coronavirus-reports-europol-warns-travellers-360721" hreflang="en">Beware of fake negative coronavirus reports: Europol warns travellers</a>

The total population of the European Union is 446 million. Each person needs 2 doses, which roughly translates into 892 million doses. AstraZeneca is not the only company that EU has ordered coronavirus drugs from. Procurement deals have been signed with- 6 companies, with total number of doses at 2.3 billion. Despite these figures, the EU Has been able to inoculate just 2 per cent of its population.

What happened to the rest of their orders? &nbsp;

Deliveries are slow as both Pfizer and AstraZeneca are facing problems in their Belgium plant. Approvals are also slow. The EU Has so far approved the Pfizer, the Moderna and the AstraZeneca vaccines. The AstraZeneca vaccine has only been approved for those above 18. Hungary has separately approved China's Sinopharm vaccine.

"In addition to Pfizer, Moderna, Sputnik and AstraZeneca, we can now count on Sinopharm as well", Cecilia Muller, Hungary's chief medical officer said.

Critics say that Europe ordered too little, too late, and it is now trying to make up for the mess by tightening export rules.

''Well, I think the European Union recognised now that they made a mistake", Michael Gove, UK minister for the cabinet office said. "This is an incredibly hostile and aggressive act by the European Union bloc, they are trying to stop the supply of a vaccine designed to save lives into the United Kingdom", said Arlene Foster, Northern Ireland's First Minister.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-finds-south-african-coronavirus-variant-among-11-people-with-no-travel-history-360720" hreflang="en">UK finds South African coronavirus variant among 11 people with no travel history</a>

For Britain, which recently exited the EU, the vaccination botch-up translates into Brexit endorsement. It has numbers to show that the EU is doing a shoddy job. For every 100 people in the UK, 13.95 have been administered with at least one dose of the coronavirus vaccine. In Italy - the number dips to 3.24. In France, it's 2.25. In Spain, it's 3.15, and in Germany, it's 2.77. In Greece, it's 2.58, followed by Belgium and Norway at 2.5 and 2.15 respectively.

Europe's best-performing country is Denmark, where 4.47 people for every 100 have received a vaccine dose.

In Israel, this number is 54.72, and in the UAE it's 33.71.

"I think we Europeans should also be more efficient on this matter [COVID-19 vaccines]", French President Emmanuel Macron said.

European Union wants to vaccinate at least 80 per cent of those above the age of 80 by March. It also wants to vaccinate 80 per cent of health workers at the same time. The goal is to immunise 70 per cent of Europe's adult population by summer.

The European Union's vaccination programme is becoming a disaster, with the bloc having inoculated around 2 per cent of its population. EU's best-performing country - Denmark has managed to administer 4.

The European Union's vaccination programme is becoming a disaster, with the bloc having inoculated around 2 per cent of its population. EU's best-performing country - Denmark has managed to administer 4.47 doses per 100 people. Israel, for example, has vaccinated - 54.72 people for every hundred. So, what's going on in Europe? Europe's problems range from slow vaccine supply to slow approvals. The bloc is also caught in a scuffle with vaccine-maker AstraZeneca - after it said it won't be able to deliver the promised doses on time. AstraZeneca has decided to supply an additional 9 million doses of coronavirus drugs to the EU by March, taking the total to 40 million. Also read: Beware of fake negative coronavirus reports: Europol warns travellers The total population of the European Union is 446 million. Each person needs 2 doses, which roughly translates into 892 million doses. AstraZeneca is not the only company that EU has ordered coronavirus drugs from. Procurement deals have been signed with- 6 companies, with total number of doses at 2.3 billion. Despite these figures, the EU Has been able to inoculate just 2 per cent of its population. What happened to the rest of their orders? Deliveries are slow as both Pfizer and AstraZeneca are facing problems in their Belgium plant. Approvals are also slow. The EU Has so far approved the Pfizer, the Moderna and the AstraZeneca vaccines. The AstraZeneca vaccine has only been approved for those above 18. Hungary has separately approved China's Sinopharm vaccine. "In addition to Pfizer, Moderna, Sputnik and AstraZeneca, we can now count on Sinopharm as well", Cecilia Muller, Hungary's chief medical officer said. Critics say that Europe ordered too little, too late, and it is now trying to make up for the mess by tightening export rules. ''Well, I think the European Union recognised now that they made a mistake", Michael Gove, UK minister for the cabinet office said. "This is an incredibly hostile and aggressive act by the European Union bloc, they are trying to stop the supply of a vaccine designed to save lives into the United Kingdom", said Arlene Foster, Northern Ireland's First Minister. Also read: UK finds South African coronavirus variant among 11 people with no travel history For Britain, which recently exited the EU, the vaccination botch-up translates into Brexit endorsement. It has numbers to show that the EU is doing a shoddy job. For every 100 people in the UK, 13.95 have been administered with at least one dose of the coronavirus vaccine. In Italy - the number dips to 3.24. In France, it's 2.25. In Spain, it's 3.15, and in Germany, it's 2.77. In Greece, it's 2.58, followed by Belgium and Norway at 2.5 and 2.15 respectively. Europe's best-performing country is Denmark, where 4.47 people for every 100 have received a vaccine dose. In Israel, this number is 54.72, and in the UAE it's 33.71. "I think we Europeans should also be more efficient on this matter [COVID-19 vaccines]", French President Emmanuel Macron said. European Union wants to vaccinate at least 80 per cent of those above the age of 80 by March. It also wants to vaccinate 80 per cent of health workers at the same time. The goal is to immunise 70 per cent of Europe's adult population by summer.

EU has vaccinated 2% of its population. How does it compare to rest of the world?

After weeks of worrying and extended talks, the European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen has announced that the pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca will be delivering 30 per cent extra <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccines</a> to the EU.

She also added that the company will be starting the deliveries a week earlier than planned and will also extend its production capacity in Europe.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-says-90-coronavirus-vaccinations-administered-in-rich-countries-360660" hreflang="en">WHO says 90% coronavirus vaccinations administered in rich countries</a>

The EU chief took to Twitter to make the announcement. "@AstraZeneca will deliver 9 million additional doses in the first quarter (40 million in total) compared to last week’s offer &amp; will start deliveries one week earlier than scheduled," she said. "The company will also expand its manufacturing capacity in Europe."

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Step forward on vaccines.<a href="https://twitter.com/AstraZeneca?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AstraZeneca</a> will deliver 9 million additional doses in the first quarter (40 million in total) compared to last week’s offer &amp; will start deliveries one week earlier than scheduled. 
 
The company will also expand its manufacturing capacity in Europe.
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1355942468001411072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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AstraZeneca had earlier announced a cut of three-quarters in the deliveries of the vaccine that it had promised to deliver in the first quarter. However, the EU had refused to heed to AstraZeneca's excuse of production default and had demanded an immediate inspection into the matter.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-backtracks-on-restrictions-on-covid-vaccine-export-to-northern-ireland-360193">EU backtracks on restrictions on COVID vaccine export to Northern Ireland</a>

Hours later, she also added that extra doses of the BioNTech-Pfizer vaccine will also be provided to the EU soon.

Pfizer-BioNTech "will deliver 75 million of additional doses in the second quarter of the year - and up to 600 millions in total in 2021," she tweeted.

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We are working with pharmaceutical companies to ensure vaccines are delivered to Europeans. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BioNTech?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BioNTech</a>/<a href="https://twitter.com/pfizer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@pfizer</a> will deliver 75 million of additional doses in the second quarter of the year - and up to 600 millions in total in 2021.
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1356173223721893889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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She explained that her colleagues are working with various pharmaceutical companies to ensure that the European countries get timely and needed deliveries of the coronavirus vaccines.

These announcements have come at a time when the EU has been under immense pressure to rework its aim of vaccinating the locals, with Pfizer announcing a sudden delay in deliveries of coronavirus vaccines after a few days start of the mass vaccine drives around the continent.

Despite the pressure, the EU chief has announced that the aim to vaccinate at least 70 per cent of EU adults by the end of summer is still the same and the officials are working with the pharmaceutical companies to meet the set targets.

After weeks of worrying and extended talks, the European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen has announced that the pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca will be delivering 30 per cent extra coronavirus vaccines to the EU.

After weeks of worrying and extended talks, the European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen has announced that the pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca will be delivering 30 per cent extra coronavirus vaccines to the EU. She also added that the company will be starting the deliveries a week earlier than planned and will also extend its production capacity in Europe. Also read| WHO says 90% coronavirus vaccinations administered in rich countries The EU chief took to Twitter to make the announcement. "@AstraZeneca will deliver 9 million additional doses in the first quarter (40 million in total) compared to last week’s offer & will start deliveries one week earlier than scheduled," she said. "The company will also expand its manufacturing capacity in Europe." Step forward on vaccines.@AstraZeneca will deliver 9 million additional doses in the first quarter (40 million in total) compared to last week’s offer & will start deliveries one week earlier than scheduled. The company will also expand its manufacturing capacity in Europe. — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) January 31, 2021 × AstraZeneca had earlier announced a cut of three-quarters in the deliveries of the vaccine that it had promised to deliver in the first quarter. However, the EU had refused to heed to AstraZeneca's excuse of production default and had demanded an immediate inspection into the matter. Also read| EU backtracks on restrictions on COVID vaccine export to Northern Ireland Hours later, she also added that extra doses of the BioNTech-Pfizer vaccine will also be provided to the EU soon. Pfizer-BioNTech "will deliver 75 million of additional doses in the second quarter of the year - and up to 600 millions in total in 2021," she tweeted. We are working with pharmaceutical companies to ensure vaccines are delivered to Europeans. #BioNTech/@pfizer will deliver 75 million of additional doses in the second quarter of the year - and up to 600 millions in total in 2021. — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) February 1, 2021 × She explained that her colleagues are working with various pharmaceutical companies to ensure that the European countries get timely and needed deliveries of the coronavirus vaccines. These announcements have come at a time when the EU has been under immense pressure to rework its aim of vaccinating the locals, with Pfizer announcing a sudden delay in deliveries of coronavirus vaccines after a few days start of the mass vaccine drives around the continent. Despite the pressure, the EU chief has announced that the aim to vaccinate at least 70 per cent of EU adults by the end of summer is still the same and the officials are working with the pharmaceutical companies to meet the set targets.

EU chief promises extra doses of AstraZeneca and Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine

The European Union on Friday over threats to restrict vaccine exports to Northern Ireland. This followed after the UK voiced "grave concerns" over the proposed move. The EU had earlier warned that it would invoke Article-16 over its intentions to bar export of Europe-made vaccines to non-EU members. The move was being mulled&nbsp;in order to address the vaccine shortage in the continent. Invoking Article 16 results in overriding part of the Brexit deal that allow free-flow of good across the Irish border.

"The Commission will ensure that the Ireland / Northern Ireland Protocol is unaffected," the EU Commissioner said in a statement late Friday.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson had earlier told EU chief Ursula von der Leyen of his "grave concerns about the potential impact" the European bloc's decision might have.

The European scheme to monitor and bar exports of vaccines produced in EU plants has also been criticised by the World Health Organization.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fauci-says-uk-coronavirus-variant-to-become-more-dominant-in-us-by-march-360187">Fauci says UK coronavirus variant to become more dominant in US by March</a> 
 
The WHO said the move was part of a "very worrying trend" that could jeopardise the global supply chain for vaccines.

Although the EU has rowed back from the Article 16 threat, a Commission statement said if there were vaccines circumventing the&nbsp;European system, "the EU will consider using all the instruments at its disposal".

The EU earlier justified the "safeguard measure" as an attempt to keep member states' vaccine rollouts on track.

(With AFP inputs)

The European Union on Friday over threats to restrict vaccine exports to Northern Ireland. This followed after the UK voiced "grave concerns" over the proposed move.

The European Union on Friday over threats to restrict vaccine exports to Northern Ireland. This followed after the UK voiced "grave concerns" over the proposed move. The EU had earlier warned that it would invoke Article-16 over its intentions to bar export of Europe-made vaccines to non-EU members. The move was being mulled in order to address the vaccine shortage in the continent. Invoking Article 16 results in overriding part of the Brexit deal that allow free-flow of good across the Irish border. "The Commission will ensure that the Ireland / Northern Ireland Protocol is unaffected," the EU Commissioner said in a statement late Friday. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson had earlier told EU chief Ursula von der Leyen of his "grave concerns about the potential impact" the European bloc's decision might have. The European scheme to monitor and bar exports of vaccines produced in EU plants has also been criticised by the World Health Organization. Also Read | Fauci says UK coronavirus variant to become more dominant in US by March The WHO said the move was part of a "very worrying trend" that could jeopardise the global supply chain for vaccines. Although the EU has rowed back from the Article 16 threat, a Commission statement said if there were vaccines circumventing the European system, "the EU will consider using all the instruments at its disposal". The EU earlier justified the "safeguard measure" as an attempt to keep member states' vaccine rollouts on track. (With AFP inputs)

EU backtracks on restrictions on COVID vaccine export to Northern Ireland

The European Union amended its controversial measures seeking to limit exports to Northern Ireland.

European Union rows back on Irish border vaccine controls

One in five people in the European Union, or more than 92.4 million of the bloc's population experienced poverty, said a United Nations report. This amounts to 21.1 per cent of the population experiencing poverty. The observation has been made by Olivier De Schutter, a UN special rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights, who interviewed dozens of EU officials to make his assessment.

De Schutter warned that the EU institutions -- which include the commission, the European Central Bank and the council of ministers -- must use the current covid crisis to "reinvent themselves" to fight poverty.

He also criticised EU&nbsp;policymakers for being focussed on austerity and balanced budgets rather than lifting tens of millions of Europeans out of poverty.

Currently, "EU member states are asked to be competitive and lean: they are pardoned for not being social enough," said the report.

EU member states all too often "compete with each other in very unhelpful ways", stifling social progress.

"They race to the bottom by lowering taxes, wages, and worker protections because they think that's how they can attract investors and improve... competitiveness," said De Schutter.

He also slammed the EU's much vaunted Green Deal, a vast programme that is meant to ensure the EU becomes carbon neutral by 2050.

"The fight against poverty is the missing piece of this Green Deal" even though it was presented as a key component, he said.

"But as long as this good intention is not translated into concrete actions, millions will continue to struggle for a decent standard of living in a society that leaves them behind."

He urged the EU to implement its so-called European Pillar of Social Rights, which should include minimum income guarantees and legally binding targets to erase poverty.

It "is an opportunity that should not be wasted," he said.&nbsp;

One in five people in the European Union, or more than 92.4 million of the bloc's population experienced poverty, said a United Nations report. This amounts to 21.

One in five people in the European Union, or more than 92.4 million of the bloc's population experienced poverty, said a United Nations report. This amounts to 21.1 per cent of the population experiencing poverty. The observation has been made by Olivier De Schutter, a UN special rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights, who interviewed dozens of EU officials to make his assessment. De Schutter warned that the EU institutions -- which include the commission, the European Central Bank and the council of ministers -- must use the current covid crisis to "reinvent themselves" to fight poverty. He also criticised EU policymakers for being focussed on austerity and balanced budgets rather than lifting tens of millions of Europeans out of poverty. Currently, "EU member states are asked to be competitive and lean: they are pardoned for not being social enough," said the report. EU member states all too often "compete with each other in very unhelpful ways", stifling social progress. "They race to the bottom by lowering taxes, wages, and worker protections because they think that's how they can attract investors and improve... competitiveness," said De Schutter. He also slammed the EU's much vaunted Green Deal, a vast programme that is meant to ensure the EU becomes carbon neutral by 2050. "The fight against poverty is the missing piece of this Green Deal" even though it was presented as a key component, he said. "But as long as this good intention is not translated into concrete actions, millions will continue to struggle for a decent standard of living in a society that leaves them behind." He urged the EU to implement its so-called European Pillar of Social Rights, which should include minimum income guarantees and legally binding targets to erase poverty. It "is an opportunity that should not be wasted," he said.

More than 92 million people in EU experience poverty: UN report

Britain expects the European Union to facilitate all deliveries of vaccines, a spokesman for Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Thursday, repeating the government wanted the doses to make sure the most vulnerable were vaccinated.

UK PM Boris Johnson takes a jibe at EU vaccination

At Tricker's, a 192-year-old maker of English luxury shoes, relief at averting a no-deal Brexit on January 1 quickly turned to shock at the scale of the new cost of doing business with the European Union.

UK shoemaker feels pinch from hidden cost of Brexit

The European Union failed to make a breakthrough in crisis talks with AstraZeneca on Wednesday and demanded the drugmaker spell out how it would supply the bloc with reserved doses of COVID-19 vaccine from plants in Europe and Britain.

European Union demands AstraZeneca plan to break vaccine deadlock

The European Union health commissioner said that AstraZeneca had provided insufficient clarification at a meeting on Monday (January 25) on its decision to slow down supplies of COVID-19 vaccines to the EU.

European Union reminds AstraZeneca of its contract obligations

Pharmaceutical giant Astrazeneca is facing twin challenges in Europe, over efficacy and delivery. On Monday, German Daily reported government was unhappy with Astrazeneca's COVID vaccine. The report says that the jab was only 8% effective among people over-65 years.

German media question Astrazeneca's efficacy rate

European Union foreign ministers on Monday debated a response to the arrest of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny and a weekend police crackdown that saw thousands taken into custody during protests in support of the Kremlin critic.

European Union calls on Russia to release opposition leader Alexei Navalny

Renewables have taken over fossil fuels as European Unions' main source of electricity. Watch this video to know more.

Renewables beat fossil fuels in electricity mix in EU

Russian police detained people and used force to break up a rally in St Petersburg on Sunday (January 23) as protesters demanded the release of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, whose wife was among those detained.

Russia: Police detains over 200 protesters at pro-Navalny rally in St Petersburg

European Council President Chrles Michel said on Sunday that the European Union will 'make' comapanies respect the contracts for coronavirus vaccine supply. His comments have come amid statements from vaccine providers that suggest that there will be a delays in supply of the vaccines.Pfizer said last week that it was temporarily slowing supplies to Europe to make manufacturing changes that would boost output. &nbsp;On Friday, AstraZeneca also said that initial deliveries to the region will fall short because of a production glitch

"We plan to make the pharmaceutical companies respect the contracts they have signed ... by using the legal means at our disposal," Michel said on Europe 1 radio.

There are increasing voices of displeasure over declared delay in vaccine supply. On Saturday, Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said that delay in EU was serious breach of contract. The pm said that the delay was "unacceptable"

"This is unacceptable," Conte said in a Facebook post. "Our vaccination plan ... has been drawn up on the basis of contractual pledges freely undertaken by pharmaceutical companies with the European Commission."

vaccinations in Italy have slowed to 20,000-25,000 a day from peaks of more than 90,000 around two weeks ago, said the head of Italy's higher health council, Franco Locatelli.

Rome has threatened to sue Pfizer.

Conte said expected delays in the vaccine by AstraZeneca were even more worrying, adding Italy would receive 3.4 million doses instead of 8 million in the first quarter if the 60% reduction were confirmed.

He added the heads of AstraZeneca Italy had confirmed the reduction in production capacity at a meeting on Saturday with Italian Health Minister Roberto Speranza and COVID-19 Special Commissioner Domenico Arcuri.

"Such delays in deliveries represent serious contractual violations, which cause enormous damage to Italy and other countries," Conte said.

"We'll use all available legal tools as we're already doing with Pfizer-BioNTech," he added.

(With Reuters inputs)

European Council President Chrles Michel said on Sunday that the European Union will 'make' comapanies respect the contracts for coronavirus vaccine supply. His comments have come amid statements from vaccine providers that suggest that there will be a delays in supply of the vaccines.

European Council President Chrles Michel said on Sunday that the European Union will 'make' comapanies respect the contracts for coronavirus vaccine supply. His comments have come amid statements from vaccine providers that suggest that there will be a delays in supply of the vaccines.Pfizer said last week that it was temporarily slowing supplies to Europe to make manufacturing changes that would boost output. On Friday, AstraZeneca also said that initial deliveries to the region will fall short because of a production glitch "We plan to make the pharmaceutical companies respect the contracts they have signed ... by using the legal means at our disposal," Michel said on Europe 1 radio. There are increasing voices of displeasure over declared delay in vaccine supply. On Saturday, Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said that delay in EU was serious breach of contract. The pm said that the delay was "unacceptable" "This is unacceptable," Conte said in a Facebook post. "Our vaccination plan ... has been drawn up on the basis of contractual pledges freely undertaken by pharmaceutical companies with the European Commission." vaccinations in Italy have slowed to 20,000-25,000 a day from peaks of more than 90,000 around two weeks ago, said the head of Italy's higher health council, Franco Locatelli. Rome has threatened to sue Pfizer. Conte said expected delays in the vaccine by AstraZeneca were even more worrying, adding Italy would receive 3.4 million doses instead of 8 million in the first quarter if the 60% reduction were confirmed. He added the heads of AstraZeneca Italy had confirmed the reduction in production capacity at a meeting on Saturday with Italian Health Minister Roberto Speranza and COVID-19 Special Commissioner Domenico Arcuri. "Such delays in deliveries represent serious contractual violations, which cause enormous damage to Italy and other countries," Conte said. "We'll use all available legal tools as we're already doing with Pfizer-BioNTech," he added. (With Reuters inputs)

EU: Will 'make' companies respect COVID vaccine supply contracts

The United States has strongly condemned Russia's use of 'harsh tactics' against protesters and journalists demanding the release of opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

US, EU condemns Russia's crackdown on protesters & journalists

Just a day after Pfizer slashed the supply of COVID-19 vaccines to Europe, AstraZeneca has also taken a similar step by slashing the supply by 60%.

After Pfizer, Astrazeneca cuts down the supply to EU by 60%

Dozens of trucks parked up at UK Parliament as shellfish companies protested against Boris Johnson's Brexit deal following issues exporting fish to the EU.

Your Story: UK Seafood trucks parked near Parliament to protest Red Tape

Calling the British government "incompetent", lorries that transport seafood have parked their vehicles near 10 Downing Street in London to protest against delays to travel into the European Union due to new Brexit rules.&nbsp;

Over 20 large lorries from various seafood companies across the UK were parked, with large slogans painted saying "Brexit Carnage" and "Incompetent Government Destroying Shellfish Industry!", Sky News reported.

Watch |&nbsp;

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Live video of lorries parking up around Westminster and in front of Downing Street. It could turn into a very aromatic day for the government. (Courtesy of 'Only Way Is Dutch' on Facebook.) ~AA <a href="https://t.co/G56NHJDDqJ">pic.twitter.com/G56NHJDDqJ</a>
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One such vehicle was parked just metres from Downing Street, the official office of UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-boris-johnson-warns-against-unthinking-sinophobia-amid-tensions-with-china-356542">UK PM Boris Johnson warns against 'unthinking Sinophobia' amid tensions with China</a>

Police were asking the drivers for details, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-move-to-247-vaccinations-soon-says-uk-pm-boris-johnson-356493">Will move to 24/7 vaccinations soon, says UK PM Boris Johnson</a>

Several Scottish fishermen have not been able to send their stocks to Europe since the beginning of this year due to the launch of catch certificates, health checks and customs declarations, causing lengthy delays in delivery, which ultimately leads to a rejection from European buyers.&nbsp;

UK exports in huge numbers scallops, oysters, lobsters, mussels, langoustine and crab to the EU, and earlier these items were sent immediately to these nations after being harvested.

The seafood companies are "being tied in knots with paperwork requirements which would be easy enough to navigate", a spokesperson for DR Collin and Son, which participated in the protest with several lorries was quoted as saying by Sky News.&nbsp;

"However, all the training is going to waste as the technology is outdated and cannot cope with the demands being placed on it - which in turn is resulting in no produce being able to leave the UK."

 
&nbsp;

Calling the British government "incompetent", lorries that transport seafood have parked their vehicles near 10 Downing Street in London to protest against delays to travel into the European Union due to new Brexit rules.

Calling the British government "incompetent", lorries that transport seafood have parked their vehicles near 10 Downing Street in London to protest against delays to travel into the European Union due to new Brexit rules. Over 20 large lorries from various seafood companies across the UK were parked, with large slogans painted saying "Brexit Carnage" and "Incompetent Government Destroying Shellfish Industry!", Sky News reported. Watch | Live video of lorries parking up around Westminster and in front of Downing Street. It could turn into a very aromatic day for the government. (Courtesy of 'Only Way Is Dutch' on Facebook.) ~AA pic.twitter.com/G56NHJDDqJ — Best for Britain (@BestForBritain) January 18, 2021 × One such vehicle was parked just metres from Downing Street, the official office of UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Also read | UK PM Boris Johnson warns against 'unthinking Sinophobia' amid tensions with China Police were asking the drivers for details, news agency Reuters reported. Also read | Will move to 24/7 vaccinations soon, says UK PM Boris Johnson Several Scottish fishermen have not been able to send their stocks to Europe since the beginning of this year due to the launch of catch certificates, health checks and customs declarations, causing lengthy delays in delivery, which ultimately leads to a rejection from European buyers. UK exports in huge numbers scallops, oysters, lobsters, mussels, langoustine and crab to the EU, and earlier these items were sent immediately to these nations after being harvested. The seafood companies are "being tied in knots with paperwork requirements which would be easy enough to navigate", a spokesperson for DR Collin and Son, which participated in the protest with several lorries was quoted as saying by Sky News. "However, all the training is going to waste as the technology is outdated and cannot cope with the demands being placed on it - which in turn is resulting in no produce being able to leave the UK."

Over a dozen lorries parked near Downing Street to protest against new rules

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is seeking to mend Turkey's ties with European Union sensing a hostile US under Joe Biden administration. Relations between Ankara and Brussells are at a low.

And while Erdogan speaks of turning "a new page", the list of European grievances is long. Most recently, Brussels began drawing up a list of sanctions over Turkey's hunt for natural gas in the eastern Mediterranean, which triggered a naval standoff with Greece last year. But older suspicions simmer.

Erdogan's direct military interventions in the Syrian and Libyan conflicts raised hackles in Europe, while his vocal backing of Azerbaijan in the six-week Nagorno-Karabakh war upset Armenia's allies across the West.

Erdogan's threats to send millions of Syrian and other refugees Turkey is hosting to Europe if the bloc fails to provide more funding are a constant menace.

'Looking for friends'

Turkey is heavily dependent on Europe. EU member states accounted for 67.2 per cent of foreign direct investment in Turket from 2002 to 2018

With foreign sentiment dented, the Turkish lira lost a fifth of its value against the dollar last year, forcing the central bank to burn through most of its reserves trying to prop up the currency. 
Then Erdogan parted ways with his powerful son-in-law, who served as finance minister and bore the blame for Turkey's economic woes.

A few days later, Erdogan first mentioned reforms and "turning a new page" in relations with Europe.

"Erdogan is looking for friends anywhere and everywhere," said Ilke Toygur, an analyst at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs, and Elcano Royal Institute.

Donald Trump called Erdogan a "good friend". His loss ti Biden is understood to be the reason behind shift in Erdogan's tone.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is seeking to mend Turkey's ties with European Union sensing a hostile US under Joe Biden administration. Relations between Ankara and Brussells are at a low.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is seeking to mend Turkey's ties with European Union sensing a hostile US under Joe Biden administration. Relations between Ankara and Brussells are at a low. And while Erdogan speaks of turning "a new page", the list of European grievances is long. Most recently, Brussels began drawing up a list of sanctions over Turkey's hunt for natural gas in the eastern Mediterranean, which triggered a naval standoff with Greece last year. But older suspicions simmer. Erdogan's direct military interventions in the Syrian and Libyan conflicts raised hackles in Europe, while his vocal backing of Azerbaijan in the six-week Nagorno-Karabakh war upset Armenia's allies across the West. Erdogan's threats to send millions of Syrian and other refugees Turkey is hosting to Europe if the bloc fails to provide more funding are a constant menace. 'Looking for friends' Turkey is heavily dependent on Europe. EU member states accounted for 67.2 per cent of foreign direct investment in Turket from 2002 to 2018 With foreign sentiment dented, the Turkish lira lost a fifth of its value against the dollar last year, forcing the central bank to burn through most of its reserves trying to prop up the currency. Then Erdogan parted ways with his powerful son-in-law, who served as finance minister and bore the blame for Turkey's economic woes. A few days later, Erdogan first mentioned reforms and "turning a new page" in relations with Europe. "Erdogan is looking for friends anywhere and everywhere," said Ilke Toygur, an analyst at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs, and Elcano Royal Institute. Donald Trump called Erdogan a "good friend". His loss ti Biden is understood to be the reason behind shift in Erdogan's tone.

Erdogan seeks to mend ties with EU sensing a hostile US

The artificial heart will soon be available to purchase in certain European nations after the long-awaited European commission's approval. A French company is all set to manufacture the battery-power heart.

European Union approves the sale of battery-powered heart

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 slams US for labelling Yemen's Houthis as terrorists

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Tuesday he wanted to improve relations with the European Union and was hoping for the same approach from the 27-nation bloc.

"We are ready to put our relations back on track," Erdogan said during a televised meeting with EU ambassadors in Ankara. "We expect our European friends to show the same goodwill."

After talking to Erdogan on video call&nbsp; President of the EU Commission&nbsp;Ursula von der Leyen tweeted she had a ''Good exchange with Turkish President''.

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Good exchange with Turkish President <a href="https://twitter.com/RTErdogan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RTErdogan</a>. 
 
We exchanged on the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> situation, the economic recovery and the implementation of tasking of the European Council of December 2020. <a href="https://t.co/uiWY5g58Nx">pic.twitter.com/uiWY5g58Nx</a>
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1347943142528589824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Turkey&nbsp;and Greece will resume long-suspended exploratory talks over territorial claims in the Mediterranean Sea that brought them close to conflict last year, on Jan. 25 in Istanbul, the NATO members said on Monday.

Ankara and Athens held 60 rounds of talks from 2002 to 2016, but plans for a resumption of talks last year foundered after a disagreement over a Turkish seismic exploration vessel deployed to disputed waters. The ship has since returned to Turkish shores.

"The 61st round of the Exploratory Talks will take place in Istanbul on 25 January 2021," the Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement, without elaborating. The Greek Foreign Ministry confirmed the date and location in a statement but provided no further details.

Earlier on Monday, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said he was inviting Greece for talks by the end of January on all issues, adding that Athens "has no excuse" since the Oruc Reis returned to&nbsp;Turkey.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said later that Athens was seeking a "fertile and productive" relationship with its neighbour&nbsp;Turkey, adding his government would join the talks once finalised.

Turkey&nbsp;and Greece are at odds over the extent of their continental shelves in the Mediterranean, energy rights in the region, air space and the status of some islands in the Aegean Sea.

Their dispute threatened to spill into open conflict when Turkish and Greek warships collided in August as they shadowed the Oruc Reis as it surveyed for oil and gas west of Cyprus.

Previous attempts to resume the talks had been complicated by what both sides were prepared to discuss. The Greek Foreign Ministry said on Monday it was willing to talk about the demarcation of an Exclusive Economic Zone and the continental shelf.

Ankara has said all issues between the NATO members should be discussed, saying that was the format before the talks were suspended in 2016.

On Monday, Cavusoglu said he was ready to meet Greek Foreign Minister Niko Dendias in Tirana after Albania's premier offered to mediate. He also said some European Union members, including Germany, which has mediated the dispute thus far, had urged Greece to engage with&nbsp;Turkey.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Tuesday he wanted to improve relations with the European Union and was hoping for the same approach from the 27-nation bloc.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Tuesday he wanted to improve relations with the European Union and was hoping for the same approach from the 27-nation bloc. "We are ready to put our relations back on track," Erdogan said during a televised meeting with EU ambassadors in Ankara. "We expect our European friends to show the same goodwill." After talking to Erdogan on video call President of the EU Commission Ursula von der Leyen tweeted she had a ''Good exchange with Turkish President''. Good exchange with Turkish President @RTErdogan. We exchanged on the #COVID19 situation, the economic recovery and the implementation of tasking of the European Council of December 2020. pic.twitter.com/uiWY5g58Nx — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) January 9, 2021 × Turkey and Greece will resume long-suspended exploratory talks over territorial claims in the Mediterranean Sea that brought them close to conflict last year, on Jan. 25 in Istanbul, the NATO members said on Monday. Ankara and Athens held 60 rounds of talks from 2002 to 2016, but plans for a resumption of talks last year foundered after a disagreement over a Turkish seismic exploration vessel deployed to disputed waters. The ship has since returned to Turkish shores. "The 61st round of the Exploratory Talks will take place in Istanbul on 25 January 2021," the Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement, without elaborating. The Greek Foreign Ministry confirmed the date and location in a statement but provided no further details. Earlier on Monday, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said he was inviting Greece for talks by the end of January on all issues, adding that Athens "has no excuse" since the Oruc Reis returned to Turkey. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said later that Athens was seeking a "fertile and productive" relationship with its neighbour Turkey, adding his government would join the talks once finalised. Turkey and Greece are at odds over the extent of their continental shelves in the Mediterranean, energy rights in the region, air space and the status of some islands in the Aegean Sea. Their dispute threatened to spill into open conflict when Turkish and Greek warships collided in August as they shadowed the Oruc Reis as it surveyed for oil and gas west of Cyprus. Previous attempts to resume the talks had been complicated by what both sides were prepared to discuss. The Greek Foreign Ministry said on Monday it was willing to talk about the demarcation of an Exclusive Economic Zone and the continental shelf. Ankara has said all issues between the NATO members should be discussed, saying that was the format before the talks were suspended in 2016. On Monday, Cavusoglu said he was ready to meet Greek Foreign Minister Niko Dendias in Tirana after Albania's premier offered to mediate. He also said some European Union members, including Germany, which has mediated the dispute thus far, had urged Greece to engage with Turkey.

Turkish President Erdogan says want EU ties 'back on track'

The 'rules of origins' rules in post-Brexit trade deal are creating confusion as business deal are suddenly discovering that they must now pay duties on duties on exports bound for the European Union despite the deal having been struck. The trade has also been hampered due to COVID-19 restrictions.

At the heart of the Brexit deal, which came into force on January 1, is the so-called "rules of origin" condition applied to all goods crossing the border.

The rules of origin, a key aspect of all major trade deals, can rapidly turn into a costly headache for businesses.

Under the Brexit provision, any good will be subject to a customs levy if it arrives in Britain from abroad and is then exported back into the European Union.

For example, if a British firm imports something from China and export the goods to a member of EU common market, the company will have to pay customs duty.

Hence, the rules determine whether an export is British or not.

"It is clear that many UK businesses exporting to the EU are going to be hit by tariffs," said Michelle Dale, senior manager at the Manchester office of chartered accountants UHY Hacker Young.

"Businesses have also been completely blindsided by the 'rule of origin' part of the deal, which leaves them at a major competitive disadvantage when selling in the EU.&nbsp;

"Unfortunately, not enough was done to prepare them for this. It takes years to build an effective supply chain -- and using non-EU suppliers is often the best option both in terms of cost and quality."

The Brexit agreement, which was sealed four and a half years after Britons voted to leave the European Union, grants zero customs duties if at least roughly 50 per cent of an exported product is made in the UK.

That applies to the majority of UK exports -- but certainly not all of them.

(With agency inputs)

The 'rules of origins' rules in post-Brexit trade deal are creating confusion as business deal are suddenly discovering that they must now pay duties on duties on exports bound for the European Union despite the deal having been struck.

The 'rules of origins' rules in post-Brexit trade deal are creating confusion as business deal are suddenly discovering that they must now pay duties on duties on exports bound for the European Union despite the deal having been struck. The trade has also been hampered due to COVID-19 restrictions. At the heart of the Brexit deal, which came into force on January 1, is the so-called "rules of origin" condition applied to all goods crossing the border. The rules of origin, a key aspect of all major trade deals, can rapidly turn into a costly headache for businesses. Under the Brexit provision, any good will be subject to a customs levy if it arrives in Britain from abroad and is then exported back into the European Union. For example, if a British firm imports something from China and export the goods to a member of EU common market, the company will have to pay customs duty. Hence, the rules determine whether an export is British or not. "It is clear that many UK businesses exporting to the EU are going to be hit by tariffs," said Michelle Dale, senior manager at the Manchester office of chartered accountants UHY Hacker Young. "Businesses have also been completely blindsided by the 'rule of origin' part of the deal, which leaves them at a major competitive disadvantage when selling in the EU. "Unfortunately, not enough was done to prepare them for this. It takes years to build an effective supply chain -- and using non-EU suppliers is often the best option both in terms of cost and quality." The Brexit agreement, which was sealed four and a half years after Britons voted to leave the European Union, grants zero customs duties if at least roughly 50 per cent of an exported product is made in the UK. That applies to the majority of UK exports -- but certainly not all of them. (With agency inputs)

Brexit deal 'rules of origin' create trade confusion 

The head of the EU executive called violence at the U.S. Capitol "outrageous" on Thursday (January 7) but said the fact Joe Biden was still confirmed by Congress proved that American democracy was resilient.

EU Chief: US Capitol violence 'outrageous' but US democracy is strong

The European Union has scored a deal with the vaccine producer Pfizer-BioNTech to purchase additional&nbsp;300 million doses of the coronavirus vaccine, which is double the number of doses being purchased from these companies.

"We make sure Europeans have sufficient doses of safe &amp; effective #COVID19 vaccines," the head of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen said in a press conference.

"We now enable EU countries to buy more doses of the 1st vaccine approved in EU," she said. "They can now buy up to 300 million more doses of the #BioNTech/ 
@Pfizer&nbsp;vaccine."

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We make sure Europeans have sufficient doses of safe &amp; effective <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> vaccines. 
 
We now enable EU countries to buy more doses of the 1st vaccine approved in EU. 
 
They can now buy up to 300 million more doses of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BioNTech?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BioNTech</a>/<a href="https://twitter.com/pfizer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Pfizer</a> vaccine.<a href="https://t.co/vjZd0L17VL">https://t.co/vjZd0L17VL</a>
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1347468965732360192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"We have right now, access to 300 million doses of the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine. Now the good news is, we now have agreed with BioNTech/Pfizer to extend this contract. With the new agreement we could purchase a total of up to an additional 300 million doses of the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine," she said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-uk-variant-reported-in-ile-de-france-and-brittany-355374">WATCH|</a>

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This&nbsp;agreement includes a possible immediate order for 200 million doses and an additional option to buy another 100 million, the Commission said.

The announcement has come at a time when the European countries are struggling to contain the spread of the new variant of the coronavirus. Many countries have also started looking for vaccines from local producers, and some have also turned to Moderna Inc. Brazil's private clinics have taken a step further and requested for the usage of India's local vaccine, which was approved by the Indian government last week.

The European Union has scored a deal with the vaccine producer Pfizer-BioNTech to purchase additional 300 million doses of the coronavirus vaccine, which is double the number of doses being purchased from these companies.

The European Union has scored a deal with the vaccine producer Pfizer-BioNTech to purchase additional 300 million doses of the coronavirus vaccine, which is double the number of doses being purchased from these companies. "We make sure Europeans have sufficient doses of safe & effective #COVID19 vaccines," the head of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen said in a press conference. "We now enable EU countries to buy more doses of the 1st vaccine approved in EU," she said. "They can now buy up to 300 million more doses of the #BioNTech/ @Pfizer vaccine." We make sure Europeans have sufficient doses of safe & effective #COVID19 vaccines. We now enable EU countries to buy more doses of the 1st vaccine approved in EU. They can now buy up to 300 million more doses of the #BioNTech/@Pfizer vaccine.https://t.co/vjZd0L17VL — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) January 8, 2021 × "We have right now, access to 300 million doses of the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine. Now the good news is, we now have agreed with BioNTech/Pfizer to extend this contract. With the new agreement we could purchase a total of up to an additional 300 million doses of the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine," she said. WATCH| × This agreement includes a possible immediate order for 200 million doses and an additional option to buy another 100 million, the Commission said. The announcement has come at a time when the European countries are struggling to contain the spread of the new variant of the coronavirus. Many countries have also started looking for vaccines from local producers, and some have also turned to Moderna Inc. Brazil's private clinics have taken a step further and requested for the usage of India's local vaccine, which was approved by the Indian government last week.

EU increases COVID vaccine deal with Pfizer-BioNTech to 600 million doses

Frustration over the slow rollout of COVID-19 vaccines has sparked tensions within the European Union, echoing disarray within the bloc at the beginning of the pandemic over sharing of protective medical equipment and the closure of borders.

Slow vaccine rollout stokes tensions among EU states

European Union on Wednesday called for release of dozens of opposition figures in Hong Kong. The EU also said that it was eyeing imposing more sanctions on China over its crackdown on pro-democracy activists, leaders and businessmen.

"We are currently analysing the situation to see how we might need to react. There are other possibilities open to us, sanctions for example," European Commission spokesman Peter Stano told journalists.

He said that the sanctions if imposed, will have to be unanimously agreed by EU's 27 member states. The states had come together in July 2019 to slap sanctions on China when it passed the controversial National Security Law. The law was invoked by China to stamp out dissent in Hong Kong.

Under a treaty China signed ahead of it taking back Hong Kong from British colonial rule in 1997, Beijing committed to maintain a "one country, two systems" approach guaranteeing relative autonomy in the territory for 50 years.

(With AFP inputs)

European Union on Wednesday called for release of dozens of opposition figures in Hong Kong. The EU also said that it was eyeing imposing more sanctions on China over its crackdown on pro-democracy activists, leaders and businessmen.

European Union on Wednesday called for release of dozens of opposition figures in Hong Kong. The EU also said that it was eyeing imposing more sanctions on China over its crackdown on pro-democracy activists, leaders and businessmen. "We are currently analysing the situation to see how we might need to react. There are other possibilities open to us, sanctions for example," European Commission spokesman Peter Stano told journalists. He said that the sanctions if imposed, will have to be unanimously agreed by EU's 27 member states. The states had come together in July 2019 to slap sanctions on China when it passed the controversial National Security Law. The law was invoked by China to stamp out dissent in Hong Kong. Under a treaty China signed ahead of it taking back Hong Kong from British colonial rule in 1997, Beijing committed to maintain a "one country, two systems" approach guaranteeing relative autonomy in the territory for 50 years. (With AFP inputs)

EU threatens China of more sanctions, wants Hong Kong opposition figures released

A few weeks after the European Union approved the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine for emergency use in the union, the German pharmaceutical company&nbsp;BioNtech has lashed out at the EU for not approving enough doses.

The EU is now fearing a 'gap' in the vaccination drive, which BioNtech says has been caused as the EU did not approve and order enough doses. The vaccine was approved by the EU after the UK, Canada and the US started their vaccination drive from the same company. The German company claims other countries have been able to manage the mass vaccine drive in a better way than the EU.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/does-new-covid-19-strain-affect-young-people-more-353928" hreflang="en">Does new Covid-19 strain affect young people more?</a>

Uğur Şahin, Founder and the head of the German biotech firm, claims the vaccination programme in the EU "certainly did not go as fast and smooth as it did with other countries".&nbsp;

He also explained that the gap has been caused as the EU wrongfully assumed that several Other vaccines would be ready for approval by this time. "The assumption was that many other companies would come up with their vaccines," he said. "It would seem that the impression was: ‘We’ll get enough, it won’t be so bad, and we have this under control.’ It surprised me."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-massive-rave-party-with-little-social-distancing-causes-concern-353915" hreflang="en">rance: Massive rave party with little social distancing causes concern</a>

His wife and company's Chief Medical Officer said while she understands the logic behind EU's initial assumption, the union should have realised with time that the other companies will be unable to deliver in the set timeframe. "Such an approach makes sense. But then at some point it became clear that many would be unable to deliver so quickly," she said. "By that time it was too late to make up for under-ordering."

The company is now racing with its partner firm, Pfizer, to increase the production and deliver vaccine doses to the Eu to avoid the impending gap. However, the company has also added that they cannot produce flat-out to meet the widening gap. Hopefully, they will be able to set up a new manufacturing plant in Germany by the end of February. "By the end of January we should have clarity on how much more we can produce,"&nbsp;Şahin said.

Explaining the gap, the company reported that while the US ordered 600 million doses of the vaccine in July, the Eu waited until November to order half as many as the US, leading to a situation of chaos, especially with the identification of the new variants of the novel coronavirus.

A few weeks after the European Union approved the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine for emergency use in the union, the German pharmaceutical company BioNtech has lashed out at the EU for not approving enough doses.

A few weeks after the European Union approved the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine for emergency use in the union, the German pharmaceutical company BioNtech has lashed out at the EU for not approving enough doses. The EU is now fearing a 'gap' in the vaccination drive, which BioNtech says has been caused as the EU did not approve and order enough doses. The vaccine was approved by the EU after the UK, Canada and the US started their vaccination drive from the same company. The German company claims other countries have been able to manage the mass vaccine drive in a better way than the EU. Also read| Does new Covid-19 strain affect young people more? Uğur Şahin, Founder and the head of the German biotech firm, claims the vaccination programme in the EU "certainly did not go as fast and smooth as it did with other countries". He also explained that the gap has been caused as the EU wrongfully assumed that several Other vaccines would be ready for approval by this time. "The assumption was that many other companies would come up with their vaccines," he said. "It would seem that the impression was: ‘We’ll get enough, it won’t be so bad, and we have this under control.’ It surprised me." Also read| rance: Massive rave party with little social distancing causes concern His wife and company's Chief Medical Officer said while she understands the logic behind EU's initial assumption, the union should have realised with time that the other companies will be unable to deliver in the set timeframe. "Such an approach makes sense. But then at some point it became clear that many would be unable to deliver so quickly," she said. "By that time it was too late to make up for under-ordering." The company is now racing with its partner firm, Pfizer, to increase the production and deliver vaccine doses to the Eu to avoid the impending gap. However, the company has also added that they cannot produce flat-out to meet the widening gap. Hopefully, they will be able to set up a new manufacturing plant in Germany by the end of February. "By the end of January we should have clarity on how much more we can produce," Şahin said. Explaining the gap, the company reported that while the US ordered 600 million doses of the vaccine in July, the Eu waited until November to order half as many as the US, leading to a situation of chaos, especially with the identification of the new variants of the novel coronavirus.

BioNTech lashes out at EU for not ordering enough COVID-19 vaccine

Gibraltarians breathed a sigh of relief and caution after London and Madrid reached a consensus on Friday to let the territory become part of Europe's passport-free zone.&nbsp;

About 15,000 people, largely Spanish, pour into Gibraltar, a tiny British territory, for work every day, and around half of these people come from Spain.&nbsp;

Several tourists from Spain also visit Gibraltar on a daily basis because of its duty-free shopping.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/operation-gibraltar-the-day-when-pakistan-infiltrated-deep-within-india-through-haji-pir-pass-323788">Operation Gibraltar: The day when Pakistan infiltrated deep within India through Haji Pir pass</a>

Because of its small size, all food in Gibraltar is imported. About 50,000 trucks cross the Gibraltar border each year via the only road that connects the territory to Spain.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/spain-uk-discusses-border-policing-on-gibraltar-353337/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

If the deal between Spain and the UK has not been reached, it would have led to a "hard border" between Gibraltar and the European Union once the Brexit transition period ended.&nbsp;

"It's good news, it seems like the best way to keep everything moving," Oliver Gomez, a 34-year-old actuary, who walked along with his dog in Gibraltar was quoted as saying by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

The deal that was finalised at the eleventh hour meant that the small territory would be included in the Schengen passport-free zone that covers 26 European nations.&nbsp;

However, some people expressed concern about whether Spain will be able to manage the deal.&nbsp;

"We haven't always had the best track record with the Spanish. Let's see how it goes," said Jeff Saez, a 43-year-old hotel worker.&nbsp;

However, Mark Leavesley, a 34-year-old Gibraltar real estate agent, was hopeful that the territory would adapt well even if there was not a border deal.&nbsp;

"Gibraltar has proven to be resilient," said Leavesley.

A wave of relief was also felt in La Linea, a poor Spanish city just across the border from Gibraltar as it was dependant on the territory for years for business and jobs.&nbsp;

Nuria Hernanez, the owner of a hardware store in La Linea, says about 40 per cent of the customers arrive from Gibraltar.

"Without them there would be nothing here," said Hernanez.&nbsp;

Gibraltarians breathed a sigh of relief and caution after London and Madrid reached a consensus on Friday to let the territory become part of Europe's passport-free zone.

Gibraltarians breathed a sigh of relief and caution after London and Madrid reached a consensus on Friday to let the territory become part of Europe's passport-free zone. About 15,000 people, largely Spanish, pour into Gibraltar, a tiny British territory, for work every day, and around half of these people come from Spain. Several tourists from Spain also visit Gibraltar on a daily basis because of its duty-free shopping. Also read | Operation Gibraltar: The day when Pakistan infiltrated deep within India through Haji Pir pass Because of its small size, all food in Gibraltar is imported. About 50,000 trucks cross the Gibraltar border each year via the only road that connects the territory to Spain. Watch | If the deal between Spain and the UK has not been reached, it would have led to a "hard border" between Gibraltar and the European Union once the Brexit transition period ended. "It's good news, it seems like the best way to keep everything moving," Oliver Gomez, a 34-year-old actuary, who walked along with his dog in Gibraltar was quoted as saying by news agency AFP. The deal that was finalised at the eleventh hour meant that the small territory would be included in the Schengen passport-free zone that covers 26 European nations. However, some people expressed concern about whether Spain will be able to manage the deal. "We haven't always had the best track record with the Spanish. Let's see how it goes," said Jeff Saez, a 43-year-old hotel worker. However, Mark Leavesley, a 34-year-old Gibraltar real estate agent, was hopeful that the territory would adapt well even if there was not a border deal. "Gibraltar has proven to be resilient," said Leavesley. A wave of relief was also felt in La Linea, a poor Spanish city just across the border from Gibraltar as it was dependant on the territory for years for business and jobs. Nuria Hernanez, the owner of a hardware store in La Linea, says about 40 per cent of the customers arrive from Gibraltar. "Without them there would be nothing here," said Hernanez.

Big relief and some caution for Gibraltarians after UK-Spain deal

Chinese companies will receive binding commitments of access to the EU market under a new investment agreement, while China will open up its financial, manufacturing and services sectors to the 27-nation bloc, a Chinese government official said on Wednesday (December 30).

China-EU sign crucial deal ahead of Joe Biden's swearing in

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