Germany on Monday said that the country is ready to expand European Union sanctions against Belarus as a bloody crackdown continues in the country.

Germany supports 'expanding' sanctions against Belarus ahead of EU summit

The European Union urged Turkey on Sunday to halt its exploration for gas in a disputed area of the eastern Mediterranean "immediately", in a crisis that has stoked tensions with other countries in the region.

The call came after Ankara said it planned to extend its controversial search by drilling off the southwestern coast of Cyprus from next week.

Turkey's actions in the eastern Mediterranean have put it at loggerheads with its uneasy NATO ally Greece and the rest of the EU, with France announcing last week it would bolster its presence in the region in support of Athens.

Brussels has repeatedly called on Ankara to halt energy exploration off Cyprus, arguing that the drilling is illegal because it infringes on the island's exclusive economic zone.&nbsp;

Turkey's latest announcement "regrettably fuels further tensions and insecurity in the Eastern Mediterranean", EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said in a statement.

"This action runs counter and undermines efforts to resume dialogue and negotiations, and to pursue immediate de-escalation, which is the only path towards stability and lasting solutions, as reiterated by EU foreign ministers last Friday," he said.

"I call on the Turkish authorities to end these activities immediately and to engage fully and in good faith in a broad dialogue with the European Union."

The Turkish navy said in a statement issued late Saturday that the drill ship Yavuz, which has been based off Cyprus for the past few months, will explore off the southwestern coast of the island from August 18 to September 15.

Turkey has remained defiant in the face of the protests, saying it has a right to search for oil and gas in the eastern Mediterranean, where regional nations are racing for riches after the discovery of large energy deposits.

"We strongly advise against going to the search area," the Turkish navy warned in its statement.

Last week, Ankara sent the seismic research vessel Oruc Reis, escorted by warships, to an area claimed by Greece, triggering the ire of Athens and the EU.

On Friday, EU foreign ministers voiced solidarity with Greece and called for a de-escalation of the crisis.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Saturday that Ankara was ready for dialogue but insisted: "We will not back down in the face of sanctions and threats."

The defence ministry meanwhile published photographs of naval manoeuvres in the eastern Mediterranean, showing warships escorting another seismic research vessel, the Barbaros Hayrettin Pasa.

The European Union urged Turkey on Sunday to halt its exploration for gas in a disputed area of the eastern Mediterranean "immediately", in a crisis that has stoked tensions with other countries in the region.

The European Union urged Turkey on Sunday to halt its exploration for gas in a disputed area of the eastern Mediterranean "immediately", in a crisis that has stoked tensions with other countries in the region. The call came after Ankara said it planned to extend its controversial search by drilling off the southwestern coast of Cyprus from next week. Turkey's actions in the eastern Mediterranean have put it at loggerheads with its uneasy NATO ally Greece and the rest of the EU, with France announcing last week it would bolster its presence in the region in support of Athens. Brussels has repeatedly called on Ankara to halt energy exploration off Cyprus, arguing that the drilling is illegal because it infringes on the island's exclusive economic zone. Turkey's latest announcement "regrettably fuels further tensions and insecurity in the Eastern Mediterranean", EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said in a statement. "This action runs counter and undermines efforts to resume dialogue and negotiations, and to pursue immediate de-escalation, which is the only path towards stability and lasting solutions, as reiterated by EU foreign ministers last Friday," he said. "I call on the Turkish authorities to end these activities immediately and to engage fully and in good faith in a broad dialogue with the European Union." The Turkish navy said in a statement issued late Saturday that the drill ship Yavuz, which has been based off Cyprus for the past few months, will explore off the southwestern coast of the island from August 18 to September 15. Turkey has remained defiant in the face of the protests, saying it has a right to search for oil and gas in the eastern Mediterranean, where regional nations are racing for riches after the discovery of large energy deposits. "We strongly advise against going to the search area," the Turkish navy warned in its statement. Last week, Ankara sent the seismic research vessel Oruc Reis, escorted by warships, to an area claimed by Greece, triggering the ire of Athens and the EU. On Friday, EU foreign ministers voiced solidarity with Greece and called for a de-escalation of the crisis. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Saturday that Ankara was ready for dialogue but insisted: "We will not back down in the face of sanctions and threats." The defence ministry meanwhile published photographs of naval manoeuvres in the eastern Mediterranean, showing warships escorting another seismic research vessel, the Barbaros Hayrettin Pasa.

EU urges Turkey to halt gas hunt in east Mediterranean

Greece will be requesting an emergency meeting of the European Union’s Foreign Affairs Council, the prime minister’s office announced following a meeting between Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias.

Tension high between Turkey, Greece in eastern Mediterranean

Greece demanded that Turkey withdraw a research ship at the heart of their growing dispute over maritime rights and warned it would defend its sovereignty, calling for an emergency meeting of EU foreign ministers to resolve the crisis.

The row flared Monday when Ankara sent the research ship Oruc Reis off the Greek island of Kastellorizo, where Turkey disputes Greek maritime rights.

Ankara announced on Monday that its research vessel Oruc Reis and two support vessels would be operating in the Mediterranean Sea between Cyprus and Greece until August 23. The vessel arrived in the area Monday morning, escorted by Turkish warships.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-calls-greek-reaction-to-hagia-sophia-prayers-hostile-315912">Turkey calls Greek reaction to Hagia Sophia prayers 'hostile'</a>

Greece slammed the decision as an illegal act that infringed on its sovereign rights, saying the Turkish research vessel was inside an area covered by the Greek continental shelf. Greek warships were in the area and were monitoring the Oruc Reis, and the military was on alert, officials said.

<img alt="Turkey" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c6057f14-f609-44b1-a282-2c3589571917" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2821%29_4.jpg" />

Turkish seismic research vessel Oruc Reis sails through Mediterranean after leaving a port in Antalya, Turkey, August 10, 2020. Turkish Ministry of Energy/ REUTERS

NATO allies and neighbours Greece and Turkey have traditionally had testy relations and have been at odds for decades over a wide variety of issues.

The two have come to the brink of war three times since the mid-1970s, including once over drilling exploration rights. Recent discoveries of natural gas and drilling plans across the east Mediterranean have led to renewed tension.

Ankara has been angered by a deal Greece signed with Egypt last Thursday delineating their bilateral maritime boundaries and exclusive economic zones for rights to the exploitation of resources.

Last year, Turkey signed a similar deal with the U.N.-backed Libyan government in Tripoli, sparking outrage in Greece, Egypt and Cyprus, which said the agreement infringed on their economic rights in the Mediterranean.

The European Union had said the deal was a violation of international law that threatened regional stability.

At the heart of the issue is how a country's continental shelf is calculated and whether islands should be included in the calculation. Turkey argues they should not, a position that Greece says violates international law.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis spoke with Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou Tuesday to inform her of the situation in the eastern Mediterranean, his office said. He was also to speak with the heads of the country's political parties.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, speaking after a four-hour Cabinet meeting Monday night, warned that Turkey would not confine its offshore exploration efforts to its immediate coastline, but otherwise appeared conciliatory.

Greece demanded that Turkey withdraw a research ship at the heart of their growing dispute over maritime rights and warned it would defend its sovereignty, calling for an emergency meeting of EU foreign ministers to resolve the crisis.

Greece demanded that Turkey withdraw a research ship at the heart of their growing dispute over maritime rights and warned it would defend its sovereignty, calling for an emergency meeting of EU foreign ministers to resolve the crisis. The row flared Monday when Ankara sent the research ship Oruc Reis off the Greek island of Kastellorizo, where Turkey disputes Greek maritime rights. Ankara announced on Monday that its research vessel Oruc Reis and two support vessels would be operating in the Mediterranean Sea between Cyprus and Greece until August 23. The vessel arrived in the area Monday morning, escorted by Turkish warships. Also read: Turkey calls Greek reaction to Hagia Sophia prayers 'hostile' Greece slammed the decision as an illegal act that infringed on its sovereign rights, saying the Turkish research vessel was inside an area covered by the Greek continental shelf. Greek warships were in the area and were monitoring the Oruc Reis, and the military was on alert, officials said. Turkish seismic research vessel Oruc Reis sails through Mediterranean after leaving a port in Antalya, Turkey, August 10, 2020. Turkish Ministry of Energy/ REUTERS NATO allies and neighbours Greece and Turkey have traditionally had testy relations and have been at odds for decades over a wide variety of issues. The two have come to the brink of war three times since the mid-1970s, including once over drilling exploration rights. Recent discoveries of natural gas and drilling plans across the east Mediterranean have led to renewed tension. Ankara has been angered by a deal Greece signed with Egypt last Thursday delineating their bilateral maritime boundaries and exclusive economic zones for rights to the exploitation of resources. Last year, Turkey signed a similar deal with the U.N.-backed Libyan government in Tripoli, sparking outrage in Greece, Egypt and Cyprus, which said the agreement infringed on their economic rights in the Mediterranean. The European Union had said the deal was a violation of international law that threatened regional stability. At the heart of the issue is how a country's continental shelf is calculated and whether islands should be included in the calculation. Turkey argues they should not, a position that Greece says violates international law. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis spoke with Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou Tuesday to inform her of the situation in the eastern Mediterranean, his office said. He was also to speak with the heads of the country's political parties. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, speaking after a four-hour Cabinet meeting Monday night, warned that Turkey would not confine its offshore exploration efforts to its immediate coastline, but otherwise appeared conciliatory.

Greece wants emergency EU meeting on Turkey amid high tensions in eastern Mediterranean

The European Commission added 30 million euros on Sunday to their aid to help Lebanon after last week's deadly explosion in Beirut. The total aid to Lebanon by the Commission now stands at 63 million euros.

The European Commission added 30 million euros on Sunday to their aid to help Lebanon after last week's deadly explosion in Beirut. The total aid to Lebanon by the Commission now stands at 63 million euros. The latest funding was to "help address the immediate needs of those affected by the deadly explosion in Beirut on 4 August", said a Commission statement "As needs rise we are providing humanitarian support to hundreds of thousands of the most vulnerable people," commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarcic said in the statement. Also read: 'Lebanon's future at stake': Macron tells donor nations during UN-backed meet On Thursday, Commission President von der Leyen put up 33 million euros funding in a phone call with the Lebanese President Michel Aoun. In a statement by the commission, the new funding will be channelled to UN agencies, NGOs and international and will be strictly monitored. Also read: Lebanon information minister quits in wake of Beirut explosion Lenarcic, European Commissioner for Crisis Management, thanked the EU member states who had already made individual contributions to Lebanon -- in the form of money, aid, or teams of specialists to help on the ground. The announcement by the Commission came as French President Emmanuel Macron hosted an emergency aid conference for Lebanon following last Tuesday's devastating blast in Beirut. According to the UN, 117 million euros will be needed over the next three months for the emergency response. (Inputs from AFP)

European Commission doubles its Lebanon aid to 63 million euros

The president of the European Council, Charles Michel, heads to Beirut on Saturday, a day ahead of a major&nbsp;donors conference to raise funds for the blast-damaged Lebanese capital&nbsp;

"Shocked and saddened, we stand with all those affected and will provide help," Michel tweeted, announcing meetings with President Michel Aoun, parliamentary speaker Nabih Berri and Prime Minister Hassan Diab.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Traveling to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Beirut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Beirut</a> tomorrow to convey Europe’s solidarity with the people in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Lebanon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lebanon</a>. 
 
Shocked and saddened, we stand with all those affected and will provide help. 
 
Will meet with President Aoun, Speaker of Parliament Berri and President of Council of Ministers Diab. <a href="https://t.co/bKdULdPSNE">pic.twitter.com/bKdULdPSNE</a>
— Charles Michel (@eucopresident) <a href="https://twitter.com/eucopresident/status/1291671228927873026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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After his trip, Michel, whose council represents the 27 EU leaders, will take part in a videoconference organised by French President Emmanuel Macron to gather support for rescue operations.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/satellite-images-capture-beirut-before-vs-after-devastating-blast-318562">Satellite images capture Beirut before vs after devastating blast</a>

European Commission spokesman Eric Mamer said Michel and the president of the commission, Ursula von der Leyen, had written to the 27 member states urging them to step up support for Lebanon.

At Sunday's videoconference, the EU executive will be represented by the commissioner for crisis management and humanitarian aid, Janez Lenarcic.

"We are working on an estimate of humanitarian needs and we need as much information as possible," Mamer said.&nbsp;

"We are in an emergency phase. This is not a conference for reconstruction. That will take place at a later stage," he warned.&nbsp;

The European Commission says it has coordinated the dispatch of 300 rescue experts to Beirut and has made available $39 million&nbsp;for initial emergency needs, including medical aid.&nbsp;

The president of the European Council, Charles Michel, heads to Beirut on Saturday, a day ahead of a major donors conference to raise funds for the blast-damaged Lebanese capital "Shocked and saddened, we stand with all those affected and will provide help," Michel tweeted, announcing meetings with President Michel Aoun, parliamentary speaker Nabih Berri and Prime Minister Hassan Diab.

The president of the European Council, Charles Michel, heads to Beirut on Saturday, a day ahead of a major donors conference to raise funds for the blast-damaged Lebanese capital "Shocked and saddened, we stand with all those affected and will provide help," Michel tweeted, announcing meetings with President Michel Aoun, parliamentary speaker Nabih Berri and Prime Minister Hassan Diab. Traveling to #Beirut tomorrow to convey Europe’s solidarity with the people in #Lebanon. Shocked and saddened, we stand with all those affected and will provide help. Will meet with President Aoun, Speaker of Parliament Berri and President of Council of Ministers Diab. pic.twitter.com/bKdULdPSNE — Charles Michel (@eucopresident) August 7, 2020 × After his trip, Michel, whose council represents the 27 EU leaders, will take part in a videoconference organised by French President Emmanuel Macron to gather support for rescue operations. Also see: Satellite images capture Beirut before vs after devastating blast European Commission spokesman Eric Mamer said Michel and the president of the commission, Ursula von der Leyen, had written to the 27 member states urging them to step up support for Lebanon. At Sunday's videoconference, the EU executive will be represented by the commissioner for crisis management and humanitarian aid, Janez Lenarcic. "We are working on an estimate of humanitarian needs and we need as much information as possible," Mamer said. "We are in an emergency phase. This is not a conference for reconstruction. That will take place at a later stage," he warned. The European Commission says it has coordinated the dispatch of 300 rescue experts to Beirut and has made available $39 million for initial emergency needs, including medical aid.

European Council chief Charles Michel to visit Beirut on Saturday

The technology sector is the new geopolitical battleground. Around the world, tech companies are feeling the aftershocks of the pandemic. In the US, Trump has banned the hiring of foreign workers in federal agencies. The EU has imposed its first-ever sanctions against cyber attacks. WION's Gravitas tells you more about this new global tech war.

Gravitas: Aftershocks of the pandemic | Tech sector is the new battleground

The EU’s GDP is set to contract by close to 8 per cent in 2020 thanks to the Covid-induced disruption, even as the Covid death toll has crossed 130,000.

Recovery signs for EU's largest economy | Industrial activity picked up slowly

The collapse of German payments firm Wirecard has become a focal point for an overhaul of how the European Union regulates the finance industry as it evolves away from traditional banks towards fintech companies, its financial services chief said.

Wirecard`s implosion to leave a $2.1 billion hole in its books came more than a decade after the first allegations of fraud by some investors and journalists.

As a financial technology company, albeit one that owned a bank, Wirecard was long considered as being in a grey area when it came to traditional bank supervision.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-vows-to-beef-up-finance-watchdog-after-wirecard-drama-310919">Also read|&nbsp;Germany vows to beef up finance watchdog after Wirecard drama</a>

"We will assess how to improve the relevant EU rules so these kinds of cases can be detected," Valdis Dombrovskis told reporters, adding that the review is set to end after the summer.

It will look at whether changes are needed to the bloc`s rules on transparency requirements for listed companies, accounting norms and existing regulation aimed at stamping out market abuses, he said.

Wirecard seems not to have provided reliable and trustful information to investors and therefore was in breach of current rules, Dombrovskis said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wirecard-fraud-ex-coo-marsaleks-immigration-papers-in-philippines-were-faked-310671">Also read|&nbsp;Wirecard fraud: Ex-COO Marsalek's immigration papers in Philippines were faked</a>

But there was also a need to examine supervision by regulators, and not just the rules themselves, he said.

Germany`s financial supervisor BaFin and the accounting watchdog - the privately-owned Financial Reporting Enforcement Panel (FREP) have come under scrutiny in the wake of Wirecard`s collapse. BaFin and FREP supervised Wirecard.

Wirecard was a hybrid company that processed electronic payments and also owned a bank, leaving regulators at odds over how it should be supervised.

Lessons from Wirecard could also be applied to the bloc`s work on how to supervise "critical third party" providers such as tech related companies, Dombrovskis said.

The Commission had launched a public consultation on its digital finance strategy, though it was unclear if the German company would have come under this criteria.

The strategy looks at how the same risks, whether from a technology or a financial company, should be regulated and supervised in the same way.

The collapse of German payments firm Wirecard has become a focal point for an overhaul of how the European Union regulates the finance industry as it evolves away from traditional banks towards fintech companies, its financial services chief said.

The collapse of German payments firm Wirecard has become a focal point for an overhaul of how the European Union regulates the finance industry as it evolves away from traditional banks towards fintech companies, its financial services chief said. Wirecard`s implosion to leave a $2.1 billion hole in its books came more than a decade after the first allegations of fraud by some investors and journalists. As a financial technology company, albeit one that owned a bank, Wirecard was long considered as being in a grey area when it came to traditional bank supervision. Also read| Germany vows to beef up finance watchdog after Wirecard drama "We will assess how to improve the relevant EU rules so these kinds of cases can be detected," Valdis Dombrovskis told reporters, adding that the review is set to end after the summer. It will look at whether changes are needed to the bloc`s rules on transparency requirements for listed companies, accounting norms and existing regulation aimed at stamping out market abuses, he said. Wirecard seems not to have provided reliable and trustful information to investors and therefore was in breach of current rules, Dombrovskis said. Also read| Wirecard fraud: Ex-COO Marsalek's immigration papers in Philippines were faked But there was also a need to examine supervision by regulators, and not just the rules themselves, he said. Germany`s financial supervisor BaFin and the accounting watchdog - the privately-owned Financial Reporting Enforcement Panel (FREP) have come under scrutiny in the wake of Wirecard`s collapse. BaFin and FREP supervised Wirecard. Wirecard was a hybrid company that processed electronic payments and also owned a bank, leaving regulators at odds over how it should be supervised. Lessons from Wirecard could also be applied to the bloc`s work on how to supervise "critical third party" providers such as tech related companies, Dombrovskis said. The Commission had launched a public consultation on its digital finance strategy, though it was unclear if the German company would have come under this criteria. The strategy looks at how the same risks, whether from a technology or a financial company, should be regulated and supervised in the same way.

Wirecard scandal brings overhaul of EU fintech rules into sharper focus

The European Union leaders broke the deadlock and solidified a deal to assist with post-pandemic recovery in the bloc. Officially announced on Tuesday morning, the deal with entail 750 billion Euros (roughly 859 billion USD) extended to member countries in the form of grants and loans in a bid to beat the recession triggered by COVID-19.

"Conclusions adopted"

An official present at the summit announced, “conclusions adopted!”

The massive stimulus plan will resuscitate affected economies back to life, four days after their summit began, and was caught in a deadlock after Dutch PM refused to accept preliminary terms, favouring grants and loans.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/european-unions-coronavirus-rescue-summit-moment-of-truth-says-macron-313966" hreflang="en">European Union's coronavirus rescue summit 'moment of truth', says Macron</a>

A new proposal was presented by EU Council President Charles Michel after countries were unable to reach a consensus. The 27 leaders perceived the 750 billion Euro deal differently, and critics believed that this would shed light on the future of EU.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/eu-leaders-extend-summit-as-they-grapple-over-coronavirus-recovery-plan-314359" hreflang="en">EU leaders grapple over coronavirus, recovery plan</a>

To make it workable for everybody, Michel made cuts to climate change schemes, and also reworked the overall package to ensure cooperation from all parties involved.

The EU was marred by a failed collective response to the pandemic, whereby almost every country dealt with the crisis on individual terms. Italy also lodged complaints over the lack of support, for once it was one of the hardest-hit countries in the world. The bloc has also been weakened by the departure of UK.

This deal was an opportunity for leaders to show they can stick up and beat the pandemic blues together.

"Billions"

The European Central Bank has put in billions into the economies of various countries to keep them afloat and to ensure unemployment does not soar.

EU leaders debated on the outcome throughout the weekend.

French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel showed optimism since the beginning and believed the stimulus package would come through, like it did. Additionally, they linked it to the 2021-2027 common budget of over 1.1 trillion Euros.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/mr-no-no-no-why-dutch-pm-rutte-plays-role-of-eu-bogeyman-314529" hreflang="en">'Mr No, No, No': Why Dutch PM Rutte plays role of EU bogeyman</a>

Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, Europe experienced its deepest recession since World War 2, and lowered Italy’s borrowing&nbsp;costs, while pushing the Euro to a 19-week high.

As part of the recovery fund, reportedly 390 billion Euros will be non-repayable grants, which is significantly lower than the previously proposed 500 billion Euros. The rest will be in the form of repayable loans.

The Netherlands opted for a veto on aid for countries that weren’t pushing for economic reform, which caused delays.

The European Union leaders broke the deadlock and solidified a deal to assist with post-pandemic recovery in the bloc. Officially announced on Tuesday morning, the deal with entail 750 billion Euros (roughly 859 billion USD) extended to member countries in the form of grants and loans in a bid to beat the recession triggered by COVID-19.

The European Union leaders broke the deadlock and solidified a deal to assist with post-pandemic recovery in the bloc. Officially announced on Tuesday morning, the deal with entail 750 billion Euros (roughly 859 billion USD) extended to member countries in the form of grants and loans in a bid to beat the recession triggered by COVID-19. "Conclusions adopted" An official present at the summit announced, “conclusions adopted!” The massive stimulus plan will resuscitate affected economies back to life, four days after their summit began, and was caught in a deadlock after Dutch PM refused to accept preliminary terms, favouring grants and loans. Also read: European Union's coronavirus rescue summit 'moment of truth', says Macron A new proposal was presented by EU Council President Charles Michel after countries were unable to reach a consensus. The 27 leaders perceived the 750 billion Euro deal differently, and critics believed that this would shed light on the future of EU. Also read: EU leaders grapple over coronavirus, recovery plan To make it workable for everybody, Michel made cuts to climate change schemes, and also reworked the overall package to ensure cooperation from all parties involved. The EU was marred by a failed collective response to the pandemic, whereby almost every country dealt with the crisis on individual terms. Italy also lodged complaints over the lack of support, for once it was one of the hardest-hit countries in the world. The bloc has also been weakened by the departure of UK. This deal was an opportunity for leaders to show they can stick up and beat the pandemic blues together. "Billions" The European Central Bank has put in billions into the economies of various countries to keep them afloat and to ensure unemployment does not soar. EU leaders debated on the outcome throughout the weekend. French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel showed optimism since the beginning and believed the stimulus package would come through, like it did. Additionally, they linked it to the 2021-2027 common budget of over 1.1 trillion Euros. Also read: 'Mr No, No, No': Why Dutch PM Rutte plays role of EU bogeyman Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, Europe experienced its deepest recession since World War 2, and lowered Italy’s borrowing costs, while pushing the Euro to a 19-week high. As part of the recovery fund, reportedly 390 billion Euros will be non-repayable grants, which is significantly lower than the previously proposed 500 billion Euros. The rest will be in the form of repayable loans. The Netherlands opted for a veto on aid for countries that weren’t pushing for economic reform, which caused delays.

European Union breaks deadlock, inks a post-pandemic economic recovery deal

European Union leaders said on Monday they were cautiously optimistic that agreement on a massive stimulus plan for their coronavirus recovery

WION Fineprint: Tense Summit exposes differences between EU Nations

As EU negotiations over a coronavirus recovery fund and a new budget for the bloc ran into an impasse, Netherlands Prime Minister Mark Rutte was singled out by one leader this weekend as the "man responsible for the whole mess".&nbsp;

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban accused him of that, while Spanish and Italian diplomats have taken to calling him "Mr&nbsp;No No No!".

Standing up for not spending money on European projects requires a naysayer, and Rutte has taken on the role with calculated determination as leader of a group of smaller "frugal" nations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/european-unions-coronavirus-rescue-summit-moment-of-truth-says-macron-313966" hreflang="en">European Union's coronavirus rescue summit 'moment of truth', says Macron</a>

While he may cut a less colourful figure than Margaret Thatcher a generation ago, Rutte's readiness to don the mantle of parsimony after Britain's departure from the EU is solidly grounded in public opinion and politics at home.

The Dutch, who support EU membership by a two-thirds majority, take pride in both their history as a trading nation and their traditional Calvinist thrift.

Dutch taxpayers are aware that they are proportionately among the largest contributors to the EU budget, and the idea of giving or lending more is unpopular.&nbsp;

The "Mr. No" moniker derives from an April video clip, frequently retweeted, that shows a Dutch waste collector shouting at Rutte not to give money to "those Italians and French".

"Oh, no, no, no." Rutte replied. "I will remember this."&nbsp;

Critics say the Dutch reluctance to spend now is misplaced, given the country's large trade surplus with the rest of the EU. Unicredit economist Erik Nielsen argued in a note on Sunday that the Dutch 2018 net budget contribution of 2.4 billion euros "tells only a small part of the real financial story".

"According to the Tax Justice Network, that same year, the Netherlands’ tax haven structures helped them grab 6.7 billion euros in tax receipts from Germany, France, Italy and Spain," he wrote.

But conversations in the Netherlands more often focus on whether Dutch prosperity is the result of a tougher work ethic, and whether it is fair to share funds with countries that have a lower retirement age.

Domestic politics also play a role. With national elections looming in March, Rutte's conservative VVD Party must jockey with far-right parties for exactly those voters most likely to be euro-sceptic.

In addition, his current centre-right coalition lacks a majority in parliament. Any compromise struck in Brussels now that goes too far in the eyes of the Dutch might not be ratified later in The Hague.

This rejection happened in 2005 and again, to a deal Rutte had agreed to, in 2016.

As EU negotiations over a coronavirus recovery fund and a new budget for the bloc ran into an impasse, Netherlands Prime Minister Mark Rutte was singled out by one leader this weekend as the "man responsible for the whole mess".

As EU negotiations over a coronavirus recovery fund and a new budget for the bloc ran into an impasse, Netherlands Prime Minister Mark Rutte was singled out by one leader this weekend as the "man responsible for the whole mess". Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban accused him of that, while Spanish and Italian diplomats have taken to calling him "Mr No No No!". Standing up for not spending money on European projects requires a naysayer, and Rutte has taken on the role with calculated determination as leader of a group of smaller "frugal" nations. Also read: European Union's coronavirus rescue summit 'moment of truth', says Macron While he may cut a less colourful figure than Margaret Thatcher a generation ago, Rutte's readiness to don the mantle of parsimony after Britain's departure from the EU is solidly grounded in public opinion and politics at home. The Dutch, who support EU membership by a two-thirds majority, take pride in both their history as a trading nation and their traditional Calvinist thrift. Dutch taxpayers are aware that they are proportionately among the largest contributors to the EU budget, and the idea of giving or lending more is unpopular. The "Mr. No" moniker derives from an April video clip, frequently retweeted, that shows a Dutch waste collector shouting at Rutte not to give money to "those Italians and French". "Oh, no, no, no." Rutte replied. "I will remember this." Critics say the Dutch reluctance to spend now is misplaced, given the country's large trade surplus with the rest of the EU. Unicredit economist Erik Nielsen argued in a note on Sunday that the Dutch 2018 net budget contribution of 2.4 billion euros "tells only a small part of the real financial story". "According to the Tax Justice Network, that same year, the Netherlands’ tax haven structures helped them grab 6.7 billion euros in tax receipts from Germany, France, Italy and Spain," he wrote. But conversations in the Netherlands more often focus on whether Dutch prosperity is the result of a tougher work ethic, and whether it is fair to share funds with countries that have a lower retirement age. Domestic politics also play a role. With national elections looming in March, Rutte's conservative VVD Party must jockey with far-right parties for exactly those voters most likely to be euro-sceptic. In addition, his current centre-right coalition lacks a majority in parliament. Any compromise struck in Brussels now that goes too far in the eyes of the Dutch might not be ratified later in The Hague. This rejection happened in 2005 and again, to a deal Rutte had agreed to, in 2016.

'Mr No, No, No': Why Dutch PM Rutte plays role of EU bogeyman

Bulgarian Prime Minister&nbsp;Boyko Borissov has urged the European Union (EU) countries to agree and coordinate on a health protocol as the EU national leaders met for the third day today to come up with an economic recovery plan.

Borissov believes that it is important for leaders to agree on protocols and plans as the upcoming weeks will prove out to be crucial with respect to the coronavirus pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-leaders-extend-summit-as-they-grapple-over-coronavirus-recovery-plan-314359">Also read:&nbsp;EU leaders extend summit as they grapple over coronavirus, recovery plan</a>

"We are convinced the European Union needs a united health protocol... We should concentrate in the coming six months where this will be the most difficult part (of pandemic)," Borissov told reporters ahead of another round of EU budget talks here.

The talks have been organised as the actions were disjointed in the beginning of the pandemic as every EU nation acted independently.

The pandemic, which has spawned economic mayhem worldwide, also saw the G20 nations consider extending debt relief for coronavirus-hit poor countries in the second half of 2020.

Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov has urged the European Union (EU) countries to agree and coordinate on a health protocol as the EU national leaders met for the third day today to come up with an economic recovery plan.

Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov has urged the European Union (EU) countries to agree and coordinate on a health protocol as the EU national leaders met for the third day today to come up with an economic recovery plan. Borissov believes that it is important for leaders to agree on protocols and plans as the upcoming weeks will prove out to be crucial with respect to the coronavirus pandemic. Also read: EU leaders extend summit as they grapple over coronavirus, recovery plan "We are convinced the European Union needs a united health protocol... We should concentrate in the coming six months where this will be the most difficult part (of pandemic)," Borissov told reporters ahead of another round of EU budget talks here. The talks have been organised as the actions were disjointed in the beginning of the pandemic as every EU nation acted independently. The pandemic, which has spawned economic mayhem worldwide, also saw the G20 nations consider extending debt relief for coronavirus-hit poor countries in the second half of 2020.

Bulgarian PM Boyko Borissov urges EU leaders to agree on COVID-19 health protocol

European Union leaders failed to agree on a massive stimulus fund to revive their coronavirus-hammered economies on Saturday after two days of fraught negotiations, but extended their summit for another day to try and overcome their differences.

EU extends summit to another day after deadlock over COVID-19 recovery plan

The Dutch welcomed new proposals on a massive EU stimulus fund on Saturday in a second day of negotiations among the bloc`s leaders though a final deal on how to revive growth stifled by the coronavirus pandemic remained far off.

The talks on Friday were deadlocked over who should control how the money is spent, as Prime Minister Mark Rutte held out against his EU counterparts after 13 hours of negotiations at a summit in Brussels.

With the pandemic dealing many European economies their worst economic shock since World War Two, leaders seek to agree on a 750 billion euro ($856 billion) recovery fund and a 2021-27 EU budget of more than 1 trillion euros.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-leaders-discuss-covid-funding-deal-in-first-face-to-face-summit-since-pandemic-314217">Also watch:&nbsp;EU leaders discuss COVID funding deal in first face-to-face summit since pandemic</a>

"I`m doing this for the whole of Europe, because it is also in the interest of Spain and Italy that they emerge from this crisis with strength," Rutte told reporters early on Saturday, referring to the two EU countries most affected by the pandemic.

Many of the 27 leaders — wearing masks in their first face-to-face meeting since February — had their own demands in negotiations crisscrossing different regional and economic priorities.

But the Dutch position highlighted the deep splits in the bloc, as the executive European Commission seeks a mandate to borrow billions of euros on capital markets for the first time.

Fiscally conservative countries such as Austria, Denmark and Sweden are adamant that any new debt should be strictly policed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-in-talks-with-moderna-biontech-curevac-to-secure-possible-covid-vaccines-314155">Also read:&nbsp;EU in talks with Moderna, BioNtech, CureVac to secure possible COVID vaccines</a>

The European Parliament must also approve any deal done by leaders.

Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov said he saw a route to a compromise by involving EU finance ministers in monitoring new debt, rather than just the European Commission.

Senior EU lawmaker Guy Verhofstadt via Twitter rejected involving finance ministers, however, concerned that the parliament might be sidelined.

"The recovery fund cannot be a pretext to undermine EU democracy," he said.

New proposals 
The leaders of France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Italy and the Commission also held talks, meeting in a format once used to discuss Greek debt relief, an issue that dogged the bloc for years.

European Council President Charles Michel, who chaired the summit, then circulated new proposals seen by Reuters which tried to resolve the Dutch demands.

"In the end this is a package and there are many more issues to solve. But the proposal on governance as put forward by Michel is a serious step in the right direction," a Dutch diplomat said in reaction.

"Many issues remain and whether we get there will depend on the next 24 hours."

The exact size of the new EU budget and how far to use payouts as leverage for reforms, or whether to withhold money from countries that fail to live up to democratic standards, were still to be resolved.

A senior diplomat said: "The key question now is whether... we can move on to other issues. There will still need to be a discussion on volume, and that`s before we get into the rule of law."

Hungary, backed by its eurosceptic, nationalist ally Poland, threatened to veto the whole package over a new envisaged mechanism to freeze out countries flouting democratic principles.

Under the new proposals, the portion of grants in the 750 billion euro recovery fund would be reduced to 450 billion euros from 500 billion.

They also call for an `emergency brake` on disbursement of funds, to appease states who want conditions attached to grants and would prefer to see those countries worst affected by the coronavirus crisis take loans.

The proposals would also increase rebates on the multi-year EU budget for Austria, Denmark and Sweden.

"We are not at the end of the negotiation, but this at least provides a basis for negotiation," a second EU diplomat said.

The Dutch welcomed new proposals on a massive EU stimulus fund on Saturday in a second day of negotiations among the bloc`s leaders though a final deal on how to revive growth stifled by the coronavirus pandemic remained far off.

The Dutch welcomed new proposals on a massive EU stimulus fund on Saturday in a second day of negotiations among the bloc`s leaders though a final deal on how to revive growth stifled by the coronavirus pandemic remained far off. The talks on Friday were deadlocked over who should control how the money is spent, as Prime Minister Mark Rutte held out against his EU counterparts after 13 hours of negotiations at a summit in Brussels. With the pandemic dealing many European economies their worst economic shock since World War Two, leaders seek to agree on a 750 billion euro ($856 billion) recovery fund and a 2021-27 EU budget of more than 1 trillion euros. Also watch: EU leaders discuss COVID funding deal in first face-to-face summit since pandemic "I`m doing this for the whole of Europe, because it is also in the interest of Spain and Italy that they emerge from this crisis with strength," Rutte told reporters early on Saturday, referring to the two EU countries most affected by the pandemic. Many of the 27 leaders — wearing masks in their first face-to-face meeting since February — had their own demands in negotiations crisscrossing different regional and economic priorities. But the Dutch position highlighted the deep splits in the bloc, as the executive European Commission seeks a mandate to borrow billions of euros on capital markets for the first time. Fiscally conservative countries such as Austria, Denmark and Sweden are adamant that any new debt should be strictly policed. Also read: EU in talks with Moderna, BioNtech, CureVac to secure possible COVID vaccines The European Parliament must also approve any deal done by leaders. Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov said he saw a route to a compromise by involving EU finance ministers in monitoring new debt, rather than just the European Commission. Senior EU lawmaker Guy Verhofstadt via Twitter rejected involving finance ministers, however, concerned that the parliament might be sidelined. "The recovery fund cannot be a pretext to undermine EU democracy," he said. New proposals The leaders of France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Italy and the Commission also held talks, meeting in a format once used to discuss Greek debt relief, an issue that dogged the bloc for years. European Council President Charles Michel, who chaired the summit, then circulated new proposals seen by Reuters which tried to resolve the Dutch demands. "In the end this is a package and there are many more issues to solve. But the proposal on governance as put forward by Michel is a serious step in the right direction," a Dutch diplomat said in reaction. "Many issues remain and whether we get there will depend on the next 24 hours." The exact size of the new EU budget and how far to use payouts as leverage for reforms, or whether to withhold money from countries that fail to live up to democratic standards, were still to be resolved. A senior diplomat said: "The key question now is whether... we can move on to other issues. There will still need to be a discussion on volume, and that`s before we get into the rule of law." Hungary, backed by its eurosceptic, nationalist ally Poland, threatened to veto the whole package over a new envisaged mechanism to freeze out countries flouting democratic principles. Under the new proposals, the portion of grants in the 750 billion euro recovery fund would be reduced to 450 billion euros from 500 billion. They also call for an `emergency brake` on disbursement of funds, to appease states who want conditions attached to grants and would prefer to see those countries worst affected by the coronavirus crisis take loans. The proposals would also increase rebates on the multi-year EU budget for Austria, Denmark and Sweden. "We are not at the end of the negotiation, but this at least provides a basis for negotiation," a second EU diplomat said.

Dutch welcome new ideas on EU recovery fund but deal far off

European Union leaders meet for the first time in Brazil after the COVID-19 outbreak. The first day of talks ended without any headway. EU leaders are divided over how to disburse the recovery fund.

EU leaders discuss COVID funding deal in first face-to-face summit since pandemic

Google`s YouTube and other online platforms are not liable when users upload illegal copyrighted works onto their platforms but rightholders can ask for injunctions against the companies, a European Union Court of Justice adviser said on Thursday.

EU judges, who have followed such opinions in four out of five cases, rule on the issue in the coming months.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/twitter-accounts-of-jeff-bezos-elon-musk-bill-gates-and-others-hit-in-major-hack-313558">Also read:&nbsp;Twitter accounts of Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, Bill Gates and others hit in major hack</a>

"As EU law currently stands, online platform operators, such as YouTube and Uploaded, are not directly liable for the illegal uploading of protected works by the users of those platforms," Advocate General Saugmandsgaard said in a non-binding opinion relating to two cases before the court.

The cases are C-682/18 YouTube &amp; C-683/18 Cyando.

Google`s YouTube and other online platforms are not liable when users upload illegal copyrighted works onto their platforms but rightholders can ask for injunctions against the companies, a European Union Court of Justice adviser said on Thursday.

Google`s YouTube and other online platforms are not liable when users upload illegal copyrighted works onto their platforms but rightholders can ask for injunctions against the companies, a European Union Court of Justice adviser said on Thursday. EU judges, who have followed such opinions in four out of five cases, rule on the issue in the coming months. Also read: Twitter accounts of Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, Bill Gates and others hit in major hack "As EU law currently stands, online platform operators, such as YouTube and Uploaded, are not directly liable for the illegal uploading of protected works by the users of those platforms," Advocate General Saugmandsgaard said in a non-binding opinion relating to two cases before the court. The cases are C-682/18 YouTube & C-683/18 Cyando.

YouTube not liable for illegal copyrighted works on its platform, EU court adviser says

From 1 January 2021, there will no longer be free movement for EU citizens who want to come to live and work in the UK.

UK's new fast-track immigration system to exclude care workers

The European Union is all set to veil the new countermeasures against China over the newly imposed national security law. Watch report

EU vs China over Security law: EU mulling scholarships for HK students

Britain is urging businesses and individuals to prepare for the Dec. 31 end of the Brexit transition period with an information campaign titled: "The UK's new start: let's get going."

Britain left the European Union on Jan&nbsp;31, three and a half years after a referendum, but a transition period has delayed any major change in the relationship.

The two sides have been working to agree a trade deal ahead of that period expiring at the end of the year.

Cabinet Minister Michael Gove said on Sunday progress was being made in talks but there were still divisions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/huawei-to-request-uk-to-delay-5g-network-removal-312661" hreflang="en">Huawei to request UK to delay 5G network removal</a>

"At the end of this year we are leaving the single market and Customs Union regardless of the type of agreement we reach with the EU," he said. "This will bring changes and significant opportunities for which we all need to prepare."

The information campaign will launch on Monday, the government said, with ads appearing on TV, radio, billboards and online.&nbsp;

A survey from lobby group the Institute of Directors (IoD) said only a quarter of companies were fully ready for the end of the transition period.

Nearly half of 978 company directors polled in late June said they were not able to prepare right now, with one in seven distracted by the coronavirus and almost a third saying they needed details of changes to be clear, the IoD said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/freeports-tax-cuts-uks-road-to-becoming-fully-independent-from-eu-312647" hreflang="en">'Freeports,' tax cuts: UK's road to becoming fully independent from EU</a>

"With so much going on, many directors feel that preparing for Brexit proper is like trying to hit a moving target," said IoD Director General Jonathan Geldart. "Jumping immediately into whatever comes next would be a nightmare for many businesses."

The campaign targets Britons intending to travel to the EU from Jan. 1, importers and exporters, UK nationals abroad, and EU, European Economic Area and Swiss nationals living in Britain.

Britain is urging businesses and individuals to prepare for the Dec. 31 end of the Brexit transition period with an information campaign titled: "The UK's new start: let's get going.

Britain is urging businesses and individuals to prepare for the Dec. 31 end of the Brexit transition period with an information campaign titled: "The UK's new start: let's get going." Britain left the European Union on Jan 31, three and a half years after a referendum, but a transition period has delayed any major change in the relationship. The two sides have been working to agree a trade deal ahead of that period expiring at the end of the year. Cabinet Minister Michael Gove said on Sunday progress was being made in talks but there were still divisions. Also read: Huawei to request UK to delay 5G network removal "At the end of this year we are leaving the single market and Customs Union regardless of the type of agreement we reach with the EU," he said. "This will bring changes and significant opportunities for which we all need to prepare." The information campaign will launch on Monday, the government said, with ads appearing on TV, radio, billboards and online. A survey from lobby group the Institute of Directors (IoD) said only a quarter of companies were fully ready for the end of the transition period. Nearly half of 978 company directors polled in late June said they were not able to prepare right now, with one in seven distracted by the coronavirus and almost a third saying they needed details of changes to be clear, the IoD said. Also read: 'Freeports,' tax cuts: UK's road to becoming fully independent from EU "With so much going on, many directors feel that preparing for Brexit proper is like trying to hit a moving target," said IoD Director General Jonathan Geldart. "Jumping immediately into whatever comes next would be a nightmare for many businesses." The campaign targets Britons intending to travel to the EU from Jan. 1, importers and exporters, UK nationals abroad, and EU, European Economic Area and Swiss nationals living in Britain.

'Let's get going': UK tells businesses to prepare for Brexit crunch

Due to surge in new coronavirus cases in several countries, Hungary has imposed new restrictions on cross-border travel as of next Wednesday to prevent the spread of the virus, as per Prime Minister Viktor Orban's chief of staff said on Sunday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamburg-sex-workers-demand-germanys-brothels-reopen-312758" hreflang="en">Hamburg sex workers demand Germany's brothels reopen</a>

Hungary has lifted most of its lockdown restrictions in May and had opened its borders to travellers from European Union states and neighbouring non-EU members.

Gergely Gulyas told an online news conference on Sunday that these new restrictions will keep the virus "outside the borders" to re-impose restrictions in the country.&nbsp;

"These restrictions serve to protect our freedom," Gulyas said.

According to new rules, Hungarians returning from countries that have high-risk of the virus will be listed as &nbsp;"yellow" and "red" and will have to go through health checks at the border will for a 14-days quarantine even if they are not infected. But the procedure can be avoided with two negative COVID-19 tests from the previous 5 days, Gulyas said.

The same applies to foreigners coming from "yellow" countries, but those from "red" countries will be barred from entry.

The red category consists of countries like s Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro and neighbouring Ukraine.&nbsp;

The yellow category consists of countries like Serbia, Bulgaria, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Sweden, and the United Kingdom, whereas, travel to Croatia, which is a popular holiday destination for Hungarians -- is free for the time being. The list will be regularly reviewed.

Transit and cargo travel, as well as business trips, are exempt from the restrictions but health checks can be conducted.

Hungary, which has a population of around 10 million, had recorded 4,234 cases of COVID-19 and 595 related deaths as of Sunday. It reported five new infections on Sunday.

(Inputs from Reuters)

Due to surge in new coronavirus cases in several countries, Hungary has imposed new restrictions on cross-border travel as of next Wednesday to prevent the spread of the virus, as per Prime Minister Viktor Orban's chief of staff said on Sunday.

Due to surge in new coronavirus cases in several countries, Hungary has imposed new restrictions on cross-border travel as of next Wednesday to prevent the spread of the virus, as per Prime Minister Viktor Orban's chief of staff said on Sunday. Also read: Hamburg sex workers demand Germany's brothels reopen Hungary has lifted most of its lockdown restrictions in May and had opened its borders to travellers from European Union states and neighbouring non-EU members. Gergely Gulyas told an online news conference on Sunday that these new restrictions will keep the virus "outside the borders" to re-impose restrictions in the country. "These restrictions serve to protect our freedom," Gulyas said. According to new rules, Hungarians returning from countries that have high-risk of the virus will be listed as "yellow" and "red" and will have to go through health checks at the border will for a 14-days quarantine even if they are not infected. But the procedure can be avoided with two negative COVID-19 tests from the previous 5 days, Gulyas said. The same applies to foreigners coming from "yellow" countries, but those from "red" countries will be barred from entry. The red category consists of countries like s Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro and neighbouring Ukraine. The yellow category consists of countries like Serbia, Bulgaria, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Sweden, and the United Kingdom, whereas, travel to Croatia, which is a popular holiday destination for Hungarians -- is free for the time being. The list will be regularly reviewed. Transit and cargo travel, as well as business trips, are exempt from the restrictions but health checks can be conducted. Hungary, which has a population of around 10 million, had recorded 4,234 cases of COVID-19 and 595 related deaths as of Sunday. It reported five new infections on Sunday. (Inputs from Reuters)

Hungary imposes border checks, quarantine to prevent spread of coronavirus

EU consumers should be able to sue Volkswagen in their national courts if they have bought cars with emission cheat devices installed, the Court of Justice of the European Union ruled on Thursday.

EU consumers can sue Volkswagen in national courts

Pakistan`s international image continues to get battered on a number of issues.

Pakistanis are not allowed to enter various European countries despite easing of COID-lockdown measures. And now the suspension of flight services by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) in European countries is the latest fallout in line.

"Unbelievable! First, Pakistanis not allowed to enter various countries. Then Gulf Airlines refusing to come to Pakistan. Now PIA not allowed into EU! Thank you Selectors and Captain of Team Pakistan!," tweeted Najam Sethi, noted Pakistani jurnalist.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/international-airlines-ground-pakistani-pilots-over-reports-of-dubious-licences-310031">Also read|&nbsp;International airlines ground Pakistani pilots over reports of 'dubious licences'</a>

Pakistan has not been included in the draft list of 54 countries that will benefit from the reopening of the European Union`s external borders from July. Regulators have barred PIA from the European Union and Britain for six months after the state-run carrier grounded nearly a third of its pilots for holding fake or dubious licences, officials said on Tuesday.

The EU Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) told PIA "it is still not sure" if all the remaining pilots are properly qualified, and "they have lost their confidence" in the airline.

After a government review, last week, had found 262 of the country`s 860 active pilots hold fake licenses or cheated on exams, more than half of them were from PIA, and the airline said it would immediately ground 141 of its 434 pilots.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/european-union-bans-pakistan-international-airlines-from-flying-to-europe-for-six-months-309757">Also read|&nbsp;European Union bans Pakistan International Airlines from flying to Europe for six months</a>

The airline has only flown limited international flights for months as a result of the coronavirus. A resumption of domestic operations last month was followed by a crash blamed on pilot error that killed 98 people.

This is a huge blow to Pakistan and its national carrier, which even otherwise did not have a great reputation. This has caused a huge sensation in the aviation world globally and suggests that the country has treated passenger safety in a most cavalier fashion.

It also gives an idea of the gigantic scam taking place, which threatens the lives of thousands of flyers. Ethics and commitment are conspicuously missing.

The spate of negative happenings which have overwhelmed Pakistan suggests that luck is running out for Prime Minister Imran Khan due to his countless failures in governing the country. The cricketer-turned politician`s two-years term in office has hit rock bottom and to an extent that his pointing fingers at India for Monday`s attack may find few takers. The severe blows taken by PIA internationally cap other glaring failures.

Pakistan`s international image continues to get battered on a number of issues. Pakistanis are not allowed to enter various European countries despite easing of COID-lockdown measures.

Pakistan`s international image continues to get battered on a number of issues. Pakistanis are not allowed to enter various European countries despite easing of COID-lockdown measures. And now the suspension of flight services by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) in European countries is the latest fallout in line. "Unbelievable! First, Pakistanis not allowed to enter various countries. Then Gulf Airlines refusing to come to Pakistan. Now PIA not allowed into EU! Thank you Selectors and Captain of Team Pakistan!," tweeted Najam Sethi, noted Pakistani jurnalist. Also read| International airlines ground Pakistani pilots over reports of 'dubious licences' Pakistan has not been included in the draft list of 54 countries that will benefit from the reopening of the European Union`s external borders from July. Regulators have barred PIA from the European Union and Britain for six months after the state-run carrier grounded nearly a third of its pilots for holding fake or dubious licences, officials said on Tuesday. The EU Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) told PIA "it is still not sure" if all the remaining pilots are properly qualified, and "they have lost their confidence" in the airline. After a government review, last week, had found 262 of the country`s 860 active pilots hold fake licenses or cheated on exams, more than half of them were from PIA, and the airline said it would immediately ground 141 of its 434 pilots. Also read| European Union bans Pakistan International Airlines from flying to Europe for six months The airline has only flown limited international flights for months as a result of the coronavirus. A resumption of domestic operations last month was followed by a crash blamed on pilot error that killed 98 people. This is a huge blow to Pakistan and its national carrier, which even otherwise did not have a great reputation. This has caused a huge sensation in the aviation world globally and suggests that the country has treated passenger safety in a most cavalier fashion. It also gives an idea of the gigantic scam taking place, which threatens the lives of thousands of flyers. Ethics and commitment are conspicuously missing. The spate of negative happenings which have overwhelmed Pakistan suggests that luck is running out for Prime Minister Imran Khan due to his countless failures in governing the country. The cricketer-turned politician`s two-years term in office has hit rock bottom and to an extent that his pointing fingers at India for Monday`s attack may find few takers. The severe blows taken by PIA internationally cap other glaring failures.

Pakistan's global image continues to worsen, PIA suspension in EU latest fallout

The European Union announced that it will open its borders on Wednesday for travel to visitors from 15 countries but did not include the U.S, India, Brazil, Russia on the list of approved nations.

EU reopens travel to 15 countries, excludes U.S, India, Brazil

The European Union must prepare for the possibility that talks with Britain on their post-Brexit relationship could fail, Chancellor Angela Merkel warned Wednesday as Germany took the helm of the bloc's rotating presidency.

After months of standstill because of the coronavirus, the two sides resumed negotiations this week on how to define Britain's future economic ties with the bloc, but the tone has hardened in both camps.

"I will keep pushing for a good solution, but the EU and Germany too must and should prepare for the case that an agreement is not reached," Merkel told German lawmakers in Berlin.

The veteran leader was speaking on the first day of Germany's six-month EU presidency, set to be dominated by the coronavirus pandemic and its economic fallout.

But Britain's divorce will loom large too, since London and Brussels only have until the end of December to clinch a new agreement or end their half-century relationship without specific plans for how they plan to trade or coexist in other fields.&nbsp;

Without a deal, ties would be reduced to minimum standards set by the World Trade Organization with high tariffs and serious disruptions to business.

Merkel already warned last week that Britain would "have to live with the consequences" of weaker trade ties with the EU in a no-deal outcome.

SERIOUS TIMES

Germany has set itself an ambitious agenda for the EU presidency, which observers say may be the last chance for outgoing chancellor Merkel to shape her European legacy.

Her main goal is to push through a massive economic recovery plan to help the 27-member club cope with its steepest recession since World War II, triggered by a pandemic that has so far killed more than 500,000 people worldwide.

"We are living in very serious times and need to react accordingly," Merkel told German MPs.

The chancellor, who has just over a year left in her final term, has thrown her political weight behind the proposed 750-billion-euro ($843-billion) recovery fund.

The fund would controversially be financed through shared EU borrowing, in a stunning U-turn for Germany after years of opposition to debt pooling.

"An extraordinary situation requires a special solution," said Merkel.&nbsp;

The first big test of Germany's EU custodianship will come at a July 17-18 EU summit, where Merkel hopes leaders will reach an agreement on the recovery fund.

The money is expected to come mainly in the form of grants for countries hit hardest by the pandemic, such as debt-laden Italy and Spain.

But so-called frugal nations including Austria and the Netherlands want to rein in the spending and are insisting on loans rather than grants.

Merkel has urged holdout nations to show unprecedented solidarity with hard-hit neighbours, warning that an uneven recovery could undermine the EU single market and end up harming stronger economies too.

But "member states' positions are still very far apart" on the matter, she admitted.

If accepted, the rescue fund would be a milestone for EU unity.

It would also be a big win for Berlin, and could ease some of the lingering resentment from the eurozone debt crisis a decade ago when Merkel's government insisted on harsh austerity for struggling nations like Greece.

GREEN FUTURE

Merkel has stressed the need for the bloc to prepare for the post-pandemic future, including through a more unified approach to health issues and by investing in climate-friendly projects.

Environmental demonstrators gathered outside the chancellery Wednesday with bags of fake euro banknotes to demand that any coronavirus stimulus be spent on "a green and just future".

At a Berlin press conference, Economy Minister Peter Altmaier said Germany supported the bloc's goal to become carbon neutral by 2050.

He also said Germany would use its EU presidency to push for "more robust" supply chains within the EU after the virus outbreak left member states scrambling to secure protective gear mainly made in China.

Berlin would fight to make progress "as quickly as possible" on a EU-China investment agreement aimed at levelling the playing field, he said.

The European Union must prepare for the possibility that talks with Britain on their post-Brexit relationship could fail, Chancellor Angela Merkel warned Wednesday as Germany took the helm of the bloc's rotating presidency.

The European Union must prepare for the possibility that talks with Britain on their post-Brexit relationship could fail, Chancellor Angela Merkel warned Wednesday as Germany took the helm of the bloc's rotating presidency. After months of standstill because of the coronavirus, the two sides resumed negotiations this week on how to define Britain's future economic ties with the bloc, but the tone has hardened in both camps. "I will keep pushing for a good solution, but the EU and Germany too must and should prepare for the case that an agreement is not reached," Merkel told German lawmakers in Berlin. The veteran leader was speaking on the first day of Germany's six-month EU presidency, set to be dominated by the coronavirus pandemic and its economic fallout. But Britain's divorce will loom large too, since London and Brussels only have until the end of December to clinch a new agreement or end their half-century relationship without specific plans for how they plan to trade or coexist in other fields. Without a deal, ties would be reduced to minimum standards set by the World Trade Organization with high tariffs and serious disruptions to business. Merkel already warned last week that Britain would "have to live with the consequences" of weaker trade ties with the EU in a no-deal outcome. SERIOUS TIMES Germany has set itself an ambitious agenda for the EU presidency, which observers say may be the last chance for outgoing chancellor Merkel to shape her European legacy. Her main goal is to push through a massive economic recovery plan to help the 27-member club cope with its steepest recession since World War II, triggered by a pandemic that has so far killed more than 500,000 people worldwide. "We are living in very serious times and need to react accordingly," Merkel told German MPs. The chancellor, who has just over a year left in her final term, has thrown her political weight behind the proposed 750-billion-euro ($843-billion) recovery fund. The fund would controversially be financed through shared EU borrowing, in a stunning U-turn for Germany after years of opposition to debt pooling. "An extraordinary situation requires a special solution," said Merkel. The first big test of Germany's EU custodianship will come at a July 17-18 EU summit, where Merkel hopes leaders will reach an agreement on the recovery fund. The money is expected to come mainly in the form of grants for countries hit hardest by the pandemic, such as debt-laden Italy and Spain. But so-called frugal nations including Austria and the Netherlands want to rein in the spending and are insisting on loans rather than grants. Merkel has urged holdout nations to show unprecedented solidarity with hard-hit neighbours, warning that an uneven recovery could undermine the EU single market and end up harming stronger economies too. But "member states' positions are still very far apart" on the matter, she admitted. If accepted, the rescue fund would be a milestone for EU unity. It would also be a big win for Berlin, and could ease some of the lingering resentment from the eurozone debt crisis a decade ago when Merkel's government insisted on harsh austerity for struggling nations like Greece. GREEN FUTURE Merkel has stressed the need for the bloc to prepare for the post-pandemic future, including through a more unified approach to health issues and by investing in climate-friendly projects. Environmental demonstrators gathered outside the chancellery Wednesday with bags of fake euro banknotes to demand that any coronavirus stimulus be spent on "a green and just future". At a Berlin press conference, Economy Minister Peter Altmaier said Germany supported the bloc's goal to become carbon neutral by 2050. He also said Germany would use its EU presidency to push for "more robust" supply chains within the EU after the virus outbreak left member states scrambling to secure protective gear mainly made in China. Berlin would fight to make progress "as quickly as possible" on a EU-China investment agreement aimed at levelling the playing field, he said.

Merkel kicks off EU presidency with Brexit warning

The European Union member countries have finally agreed to approve a list of 15 countries considered safe amid the coronavirus pandemic. EU officials have been racing for days to agree on who can visit the block as of the 1st of July.

Fineprint: European Union's 'safe list' for COVID-19 travel, Borders with India closed

The European Union is in the process of finalising the bifurcation of coronavirus recovery funds to be divided among member states.

The funds allocated to one country have stirred a debate. According to sources, Poland is set to receive a major chunk of the recovery fund. Many critics and members of the EU are protesting the allocation, calling for a boycott of Poland for the continuous attacks on the judiciary and the public discourse of LGBTQIA+ community.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/science/european-union-to-speed-up-space-ambitions-309423" hreflang="en">European Union to speed up space ambitions</a>

Poland has suffered minimal economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, but is set to receive a lot of funding from the EU.

Displeasure over distribution

The Guardian reported that a lot of EU members are displeased with the distribution of funds. The European council president Charles Michel has been approached by two prime ministers to rethink and to enforce stricter terms for funding.

The commission had planned a set-up to strip countries of funds in case they continue to promote human rights abuses and segregation. It will now be put to test, seeking a majority.

The European Union and its 27 representatives will meet in Brussels on July 17 to come up with a recovery plan for the European region, given the intensity of the recession, which some have called to be bigger than the Great Depression.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/britain-will-have-weaker-economic-ties-with-eu-post-brexit-angela-merkel-309011" hreflang="en">'Britain will have weaker economic ties with EU post Brexit': Angela Merkel</a>

As part of its goals, the commission will seek €750 billion from international markets. Out of this, €560 billion&nbsp; will be used to resuscitate the economy.

Poland is expected to receive €37 billion, and will make a contribution of €21billion. Italy, one of the hardest-hit countries in the world, will receive €81.8 billion net, and will make a contribution of €59 billion. In essence, the country will receive just €22 billion.

Anti-LGBT rhetoric

Poland’s president Andrzej Duda has faced criticism for his comments on the LGBTQIA+ community recently. He recently claimed that the community was part of “foreign attempts” to subvert the traditions and values of Poland.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/11-european-countries-have-shown-significant-virus-resurgence-who-308680" hreflang="en">11 European countries have shown significant virus resurgence: WHO</a>

His party, Law and Justice (PiS) recently declared the country an “LGBT-freezone”, with attempts to muzzle “LGBT ideology”.

The European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen recently said that the money should be used to strengthen the poorest member states.

The European Union is in the process of finalising the bifurcation of coronavirus recovery funds to be divided among member states. The funds allocated to one country have stirred a debate.

The European Union is in the process of finalising the bifurcation of coronavirus recovery funds to be divided among member states. The funds allocated to one country have stirred a debate. According to sources, Poland is set to receive a major chunk of the recovery fund. Many critics and members of the EU are protesting the allocation, calling for a boycott of Poland for the continuous attacks on the judiciary and the public discourse of LGBTQIA+ community. Also read: European Union to speed up space ambitions Poland has suffered minimal economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, but is set to receive a lot of funding from the EU. Displeasure over distribution The Guardian reported that a lot of EU members are displeased with the distribution of funds. The European council president Charles Michel has been approached by two prime ministers to rethink and to enforce stricter terms for funding. The commission had planned a set-up to strip countries of funds in case they continue to promote human rights abuses and segregation. It will now be put to test, seeking a majority. The European Union and its 27 representatives will meet in Brussels on July 17 to come up with a recovery plan for the European region, given the intensity of the recession, which some have called to be bigger than the Great Depression. Also read: 'Britain will have weaker economic ties with EU post Brexit': Angela Merkel As part of its goals, the commission will seek €750 billion from international markets. Out of this, €560 billion will be used to resuscitate the economy. Poland is expected to receive €37 billion, and will make a contribution of €21billion. Italy, one of the hardest-hit countries in the world, will receive €81.8 billion net, and will make a contribution of €59 billion. In essence, the country will receive just €22 billion. Anti-LGBT rhetoric Poland’s president Andrzej Duda has faced criticism for his comments on the LGBTQIA+ community recently. He recently claimed that the community was part of “foreign attempts” to subvert the traditions and values of Poland. Also read: 11 European countries have shown significant virus resurgence: WHO His party, Law and Justice (PiS) recently declared the country an “LGBT-freezone”, with attempts to muzzle “LGBT ideology”. The European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen recently said that the money should be used to strengthen the poorest member states.

EU members displeased over uneven distribution of coronavirus recovery funds

The British are far fatter than any other nation in Europe bar the Maltese so there needs to be a debate about how to tackle soaring rates of obesity which cost the country dearly, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday.

Johnson, who said at the start of the year that he needed to lose weight, was hospitalised in April with coronavirus and treated in intensive care with oxygen. He later said doctors in the National Health Service (NHS) had saved his life.

Asked about how ill he had been in an interview with Times Radio, Johnson said: "I did lose some weight - that is perfectly true - as you do in ICU (Intensive Care Unit)." 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netizens-lash-out-at-british-pm-boris-johnson-after-his-press-ups-309417" hreflang="en">Netizens lash out at British PM Boris Johnson after his 'press ups'</a>

"I have taken a very libertarian stance on obesity but actually when you look at the numbers, when you look at the pressure on the NHS, compare, I'm afraid this wonderful country of ours to other European countries, we are significantly fatter than most others, apart from the Maltese for some reason. It is an issue."

The United Kingdom has one of the highest rates of obesity in the world: nearly one in three adults are obese, according to the OECD. Worldwide, obesity has nearly tripled since 1975 and more than 650 million people are obese - defined by the World Health Organization as having a Body Mass Index of 30 or greater.

"HUGELY COSTLY"

Johnson, who in his youth was slender, has ditched takeaways since his illness and even told meetings that “it’s all right for you thinnies” when discussing the novel coronavirus, British media reported.

"I am not going to pretend I have original thinking about this nor am I going to pretend that it is easy for politicians to solve - everybody knows that this is a tough one," Johnson said. "It's something we all need to address."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-pm-to-unveil-new-infrastructure-plan-to-revive-economy-in-face-of-pandemic-309188" hreflang="en">Britain PM to unveil new infrastructure plan to revive economy in face of pandemic</a>

Asked if he was now an interventionist who would support a sugar tax, Johnson did not give a direct answer.

"We certainly must have a care for the health of our population and we will be happier and fitter and more resistant to diseases like COVID if we can tackle obesity," Johnson said. "It is hugely costly for the NHS."

Johnson did some press ups to show he was "as fit as a butcher's dog" in an interview with the Mail on Sunday newspaper.

Asked if he did the press ups because there was a narrative that he was not fit, he said: "Well I certainly hope not. Well no, yes."

"When I came out of hospital I did notice there were occasional pieces in the papers saying I was looking a bit wraithlike, or something someone said," Johnson said. "Complete nonsense I want you to know."

"I am feeling very well, yes thank you, again thanks to our National Health Service," he said.

The British are far fatter than any other nation in Europe bar the Maltese so there needs to be a debate about how to tackle soaring rates of obesity which cost the country dearly, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday.

The British are far fatter than any other nation in Europe bar the Maltese so there needs to be a debate about how to tackle soaring rates of obesity which cost the country dearly, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday. Johnson, who said at the start of the year that he needed to lose weight, was hospitalised in April with coronavirus and treated in intensive care with oxygen. He later said doctors in the National Health Service (NHS) had saved his life. Asked about how ill he had been in an interview with Times Radio, Johnson said: "I did lose some weight - that is perfectly true - as you do in ICU (Intensive Care Unit)." Also read: Netizens lash out at British PM Boris Johnson after his 'press ups' "I have taken a very libertarian stance on obesity but actually when you look at the numbers, when you look at the pressure on the NHS, compare, I'm afraid this wonderful country of ours to other European countries, we are significantly fatter than most others, apart from the Maltese for some reason. It is an issue." The United Kingdom has one of the highest rates of obesity in the world: nearly one in three adults are obese, according to the OECD. Worldwide, obesity has nearly tripled since 1975 and more than 650 million people are obese - defined by the World Health Organization as having a Body Mass Index of 30 or greater. "HUGELY COSTLY" Johnson, who in his youth was slender, has ditched takeaways since his illness and even told meetings that “it’s all right for you thinnies” when discussing the novel coronavirus, British media reported. "I am not going to pretend I have original thinking about this nor am I going to pretend that it is easy for politicians to solve - everybody knows that this is a tough one," Johnson said. "It's something we all need to address." Also read: Britain PM to unveil new infrastructure plan to revive economy in face of pandemic Asked if he was now an interventionist who would support a sugar tax, Johnson did not give a direct answer. "We certainly must have a care for the health of our population and we will be happier and fitter and more resistant to diseases like COVID if we can tackle obesity," Johnson said. "It is hugely costly for the NHS." Johnson did some press ups to show he was "as fit as a butcher's dog" in an interview with the Mail on Sunday newspaper. Asked if he did the press ups because there was a narrative that he was not fit, he said: "Well I certainly hope not. Well no, yes." "When I came out of hospital I did notice there were occasional pieces in the papers saying I was looking a bit wraithlike, or something someone said," Johnson said. "Complete nonsense I want you to know." "I am feeling very well, yes thank you, again thanks to our National Health Service," he said.

The British are fatter than the rest of Europe, says PM Johnson

The European Union will plough more money into rocket launches, satellite communication and space exploration to preserve its often unsung successes in space and keep up with the US and Chinese ambitions, its space chief said on Sunday.

Over the past decades, Europe has sought to build independent access to space from U.S. and Russian pioneers to help its industry, with successes such as Ariane rockets or GPS-rival satnav Galileo.

But the recent emergence of US competitor SpaceX and its reusable rockets as well as China’s rapid advances, including the first-ever landing on the far side of the Moon last year, is giving new urgency to Europe’s ambitions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/astronomers-discover-two-super-earths-orbitting-a-star-11-light-years-away-308759">Also Read: Astronomers discover two super-Earths orbitting a star 11 light-years away</a> 
 
“Space is one of Europe’s strong points, and we’re giving ourselves the means to speed up,” European Commissioner Thierry Breton, whose brief includes the space sector, told Reuters in an interview.

Breton, the former French head of IT company Atos, said that for the first time, the EU budget will be used to support new technology to launch rockets, including reusable ones.

The EU will for the first time sign a 1 billion euro agreement with Arianespace with guaranteed orders to give it more visibility, in exchange for more innovation.

“SpaceX has redefined the standards for launchers, so Ariane 6 is a necessary step, but not the ultimate aim: we must start thinking now about Ariane 7,” Breton said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-releases-stunning-10-year-time-lapse-of-the-sun-309022">Also Read:&nbsp;NASA releases stunning 10-year time-lapse of the Sun</a> 
 
Breton, who hopes the European Commission will provide 16 billion euros for space in its next budget, said he would propose a 1 billion euro European Space Fund to boost startups. He also wants to launch a competition to give free access to satellites and launchers to startups, to spur innovation.

For the Galileo satnav system, Breton said he would bring forward to the end of 2024 instead of 2027 the rollout of a new generation of satellites, “the most modern in the world”, that can interact with each other and provide a more precise signal.

He wants to launch a new satellite system that can give high-speed Internet access to all Europeans, and begin work on a Space Traffic Management system to avoid collisions, made more likely with the rapid increase in the number of satellites.

The European Union will plough more money into rocket launches, satellite communication and space exploration to preserve its often unsung successes in space and keep up with the US and Chinese ambitions, its space chief said on Sunday.

The European Union will plough more money into rocket launches, satellite communication and space exploration to preserve its often unsung successes in space and keep up with the US and Chinese ambitions, its space chief said on Sunday. Over the past decades, Europe has sought to build independent access to space from U.S. and Russian pioneers to help its industry, with successes such as Ariane rockets or GPS-rival satnav Galileo. But the recent emergence of US competitor SpaceX and its reusable rockets as well as China’s rapid advances, including the first-ever landing on the far side of the Moon last year, is giving new urgency to Europe’s ambitions. Also Read: Astronomers discover two super-Earths orbitting a star 11 light-years away “Space is one of Europe’s strong points, and we’re giving ourselves the means to speed up,” European Commissioner Thierry Breton, whose brief includes the space sector, told Reuters in an interview. Breton, the former French head of IT company Atos, said that for the first time, the EU budget will be used to support new technology to launch rockets, including reusable ones. The EU will for the first time sign a 1 billion euro agreement with Arianespace with guaranteed orders to give it more visibility, in exchange for more innovation. “SpaceX has redefined the standards for launchers, so Ariane 6 is a necessary step, but not the ultimate aim: we must start thinking now about Ariane 7,” Breton said. Also Read: NASA releases stunning 10-year time-lapse of the Sun Breton, who hopes the European Commission will provide 16 billion euros for space in its next budget, said he would propose a 1 billion euro European Space Fund to boost startups. He also wants to launch a competition to give free access to satellites and launchers to startups, to spur innovation. For the Galileo satnav system, Breton said he would bring forward to the end of 2024 instead of 2027 the rollout of a new generation of satellites, “the most modern in the world”, that can interact with each other and provide a more precise signal. He wants to launch a new satellite system that can give high-speed Internet access to all Europeans, and begin work on a Space Traffic Management system to avoid collisions, made more likely with the rapid increase in the number of satellites.

European Union to speed up space ambitions

Any Israeli move to annex parts of the West Bank would be "fatal" for Middle East peace hopes and must be prevented, if necessary with countermeasures, more than 1,000 lawmakers from across Europe said in a letter to European governments.

Lawmakers in Europe call on Israel to ditch annexation plans

Britain says it will be ready to quit its transitional arrangements with the European Union “on Australia terms” if no deal on their future relationship is reached.

Britain left the bloc on January 31, 2020. A transition period, during which Britain remains in the European single market and customs union, expires on December 31 and pressure is mounting to agree a free trade deal before then.

With the two sides still far apart, a round of “intensified negotiations” is due to start next week.

“He [UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson] said the UK would negotiate constructively but equally would be ready to leave the transition period on Australia terms if agreement could not be reached,” Downing Street office said in a statement.

Australia does not have a comprehensive trade agreement with the EU. Much of EU-Australia trade follows default World Trade Organisation rules, though specific agreements are in place for certain goods.

Britain says it will be ready to quit its transitional arrangements with the European Union “on Australia terms” if no deal on their future relationship is reached.

Britain says it will be ready to quit its transitional arrangements with the European Union “on Australia terms” if no deal on their future relationship is reached. Britain left the bloc on January 31, 2020. A transition period, during which Britain remains in the European single market and customs union, expires on December 31 and pressure is mounting to agree a free trade deal before then. With the two sides still far apart, a round of “intensified negotiations” is due to start next week. “He [UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson] said the UK would negotiate constructively but equally would be ready to leave the transition period on Australia terms if agreement could not be reached,” Downing Street office said in a statement. Australia does not have a comprehensive trade agreement with the EU. Much of EU-Australia trade follows default World Trade Organisation rules, though specific agreements are in place for certain goods.

UK ready to quit EU on 'Australia terms' if no Brexit deal, PM Johnson says

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