EU leaders will on Monday hold talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping aimed at seeking trade and investment, despite tensions over Hong Kong's freedoms and Beijing's treatment of its Uighur minority.

Chinese officials, EU chiefs Charles Michel and Ursula von der Leyen and German Chancellor Angela Merkel will hold a video-conference to replace a full summit with all 27 EU leaders cancelled because of coronavirus.

China says an investment deal -- already seven years in the making -- can be agreed this year, but EU officials warn obstacles remain and insist they will not swallow unfavourable terms simply to cut a deal.

"Even if there is a political objective to accelerate negotiations and conclude them by the end of the year, we will have this only if it is something worth having," an EU official said.

Brussels says "significant progress" has been made in talks since a similar video summit in June, and officials hope to agree a roadmap to a deal by the end of the year -- they also want Beijing to improve market access for European companies.

"The EU must define its own interests, and must be strong and independent of both China and the United States," French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire told the German weekly Welt am Sonntag.

Brussels wants to reinforce respect for intellectual property, to end obligations to transfer technology and to reduce subsidies for Chinese public enterprises.

However, no major breakthrough is expected on Monday but the EU side hopes to persuade Xi to give fresh political impetus to the talks -- and to allow his negotiators more room to compromise.

The meeting comes as ties between China and the US deteriorate, with both sides locked in fierce recriminations over trade disputes, human rights and the origins of the coronavirus pandemic.

Washington and Beijing have imposed curbs on each other's diplomats, after another tit-for-tat move in July when the two governments ordered the closure of consulates in Houston and Chengdu.

Both sides have sought to enlist the EU in their spat and, during a visit to Brussels by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in June, EU diplomatic chief Josep Borrell mooted talks to forge a common transatlantic front against China.

But little progress has been made on this initiative and broadly Brussels has preferred a middle path, treating Beijing as both a potential partner and a "systemic rival".

The EU will press Xi on Hong Kong, where Beijing has imposed a controversial new security law -- a move denounced by the West as an assault on the city's freedoms.

After the June summit, von der Leyen warned China would face "very negative consequences" if it pressed ahead with the law and the EU would limit exports to Hong Kong of equipment that could be used for surveillance and repression.

European concerns about Beijing's rights record are growing. During a visit by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to Berlin earlier this month, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas called China out over Hong Kong and its treatment of minority Uighurs.

But the European Union is far from united on how to deal with China, with some member states urging a tougher stance on rights and the environment, and others wanting to boost trade.

But China as its own concerns.

China announced Saturday it was banning imports of pork products from Germany after the European country confirmed its first case of African swine fever.

Germany is Europe's biggest pork producer and recently saw a surge in demand from China after it suffered an outbreak of the same disease.

Meanwhile, Beijing has used its mammoth "Belt and Road" infrastructure scheme to effectively pick off investment-hungry EU member states such as Greece, Portugal and Italy.

EU leaders will on Monday hold talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping aimed at seeking trade and investment, despite tensions over Hong Kong's freedoms and Beijing's treatment of its Uighur minority.

EU leaders will on Monday hold talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping aimed at seeking trade and investment, despite tensions over Hong Kong's freedoms and Beijing's treatment of its Uighur minority. Chinese officials, EU chiefs Charles Michel and Ursula von der Leyen and German Chancellor Angela Merkel will hold a video-conference to replace a full summit with all 27 EU leaders cancelled because of coronavirus. China says an investment deal -- already seven years in the making -- can be agreed this year, but EU officials warn obstacles remain and insist they will not swallow unfavourable terms simply to cut a deal. "Even if there is a political objective to accelerate negotiations and conclude them by the end of the year, we will have this only if it is something worth having," an EU official said. Brussels says "significant progress" has been made in talks since a similar video summit in June, and officials hope to agree a roadmap to a deal by the end of the year -- they also want Beijing to improve market access for European companies. "The EU must define its own interests, and must be strong and independent of both China and the United States," French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire told the German weekly Welt am Sonntag. Brussels wants to reinforce respect for intellectual property, to end obligations to transfer technology and to reduce subsidies for Chinese public enterprises. However, no major breakthrough is expected on Monday but the EU side hopes to persuade Xi to give fresh political impetus to the talks -- and to allow his negotiators more room to compromise. The meeting comes as ties between China and the US deteriorate, with both sides locked in fierce recriminations over trade disputes, human rights and the origins of the coronavirus pandemic. Washington and Beijing have imposed curbs on each other's diplomats, after another tit-for-tat move in July when the two governments ordered the closure of consulates in Houston and Chengdu. Both sides have sought to enlist the EU in their spat and, during a visit to Brussels by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in June, EU diplomatic chief Josep Borrell mooted talks to forge a common transatlantic front against China. But little progress has been made on this initiative and broadly Brussels has preferred a middle path, treating Beijing as both a potential partner and a "systemic rival". The EU will press Xi on Hong Kong, where Beijing has imposed a controversial new security law -- a move denounced by the West as an assault on the city's freedoms. After the June summit, von der Leyen warned China would face "very negative consequences" if it pressed ahead with the law and the EU would limit exports to Hong Kong of equipment that could be used for surveillance and repression. European concerns about Beijing's rights record are growing. During a visit by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to Berlin earlier this month, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas called China out over Hong Kong and its treatment of minority Uighurs. But the European Union is far from united on how to deal with China, with some member states urging a tougher stance on rights and the environment, and others wanting to boost trade. But China as its own concerns. China announced Saturday it was banning imports of pork products from Germany after the European country confirmed its first case of African swine fever. Germany is Europe's biggest pork producer and recently saw a surge in demand from China after it suffered an outbreak of the same disease. Meanwhile, Beijing has used its mammoth "Belt and Road" infrastructure scheme to effectively pick off investment-hungry EU member states such as Greece, Portugal and Italy.

EU and China hold talks over trade despite rifts

Before starting the second phase of funding for blast-hit Lebanon, the&nbsp;European Union's commissioner for crisis management has called for an urgent formation of a "credible" government.

The EU has, till now, mobilised close to $79 million (64 million euros) as an emergency response to the country after Beirut was rocked by a devastating explosion at the port, killing nearly 200 people and injuring several thousands in the early days of August this year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beirut-fire-could-be-due-to-sabotage-ignorance-or-negligence-president-aoun-326586">Also read|&nbsp;Beirut fire could be due to sabotage, ignorance or negligence: President Aoun</a>

However, Janez Lenarcic has now said that the next round of funding will only be provided after Lebanon forms a credible government.

The next round of funding, which is supposed to help the government in restructuring the port and other structures, ave to wait as funding would have to go hand in hand with reforms because the international community was not willing to support practices "that led to financial collapse and economic crisis".

"We need a credible government that enjoys the confidence of the Lebanese people and is determined to take the country in the right direction," Lenarcic said.

"Lebanon's political class has to provide what people demand and this is also what the international community expects. I'm talking about governance, not only economic reforms. There has to be a change in the way this place is governed," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-signs-of-life-in-rubble-after-three-day-search-for-beirut-blast-survivors-rescue-workers-325474">Also Read|&nbsp;'No signs of life' in rubble after three-day search for Beirut blast survivors</a>

The statement has come after Lebanon rejected an international investigation claiming the country will carry out an investigation on its own — which has brought back the long-lying issue of corruption within the government.

"The EU commission supports reaching an agreement with the IMF because that would unlock substantial resources that Lebanon desperately needs to revive its economy," Lenarcic said.

Lebanon was already suffering through an economic crisis due to coronavirus and the locals were alleging the government of being corrupt, when Beirut ports experienced the biggest explosion the country has seen in years, and destroyed structures and took hundreds of lives.

A month after the explosion, another massive fire broke out at Beirut port engulfing a warehouse that was storing&nbsp;engine oil and vehicle tyres. In response,&nbsp;President Michel Aoun said, "Today's fire could be an intentional act of sabotage, the result of a technical error, ignorance, or negligence. In all cases, the cause needs to be known as soon as possible, and those responsible held to account."

Before starting the second phase of funding for blast-hit Lebanon, the European Union's commissioner for crisis management has called for an urgent formation of a "credible" government.

Before starting the second phase of funding for blast-hit Lebanon, the European Union's commissioner for crisis management has called for an urgent formation of a "credible" government. The EU has, till now, mobilised close to $79 million (64 million euros) as an emergency response to the country after Beirut was rocked by a devastating explosion at the port, killing nearly 200 people and injuring several thousands in the early days of August this year. Also read| Beirut fire could be due to sabotage, ignorance or negligence: President Aoun However, Janez Lenarcic has now said that the next round of funding will only be provided after Lebanon forms a credible government. The next round of funding, which is supposed to help the government in restructuring the port and other structures, ave to wait as funding would have to go hand in hand with reforms because the international community was not willing to support practices "that led to financial collapse and economic crisis". "We need a credible government that enjoys the confidence of the Lebanese people and is determined to take the country in the right direction," Lenarcic said. "Lebanon's political class has to provide what people demand and this is also what the international community expects. I'm talking about governance, not only economic reforms. There has to be a change in the way this place is governed," he said. Also Read| 'No signs of life' in rubble after three-day search for Beirut blast survivors The statement has come after Lebanon rejected an international investigation claiming the country will carry out an investigation on its own — which has brought back the long-lying issue of corruption within the government. "The EU commission supports reaching an agreement with the IMF because that would unlock substantial resources that Lebanon desperately needs to revive its economy," Lenarcic said. Lebanon was already suffering through an economic crisis due to coronavirus and the locals were alleging the government of being corrupt, when Beirut ports experienced the biggest explosion the country has seen in years, and destroyed structures and took hundreds of lives. A month after the explosion, another massive fire broke out at Beirut port engulfing a warehouse that was storing engine oil and vehicle tyres. In response, President Michel Aoun said, "Today's fire could be an intentional act of sabotage, the result of a technical error, ignorance, or negligence. In all cases, the cause needs to be known as soon as possible, and those responsible held to account."

Lebanon: EU demands more 'credible' government before second phase of funding

French President Emmanuel Macron called for the need for Europe to have a 'united and clear' voice on Turkey. His appeal has come even as European Union remained indecisive about its response to dispute between Turkey, Greece and Cyprus. The countries are at an unease with each other ever sinced Turkey started drilling for natural resources in eastern Mediterranean Sea. These drilling activities have thrown up diputes of jurisdiction between the countries.

Macron's call for a 'united and clear voice' has come just when Europen Union is struggling to project a unified voice on foreign policy matters. Belarus is still witnessing large scale demoinstrations against Lukashenko.

Also Read | <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/mediterranean-crisis-greece-to-boost-military-amid-tension-with-turkey-325793">Mediterranean crisis: Greece to boost military amid tension with Turkey</a> 
 
European Union's foreign policy needs a unanimous vote from 27 member states. However, Cyprus has been reluctant to give its nod to sanctions on Belarus unless strong measures are taken against Turkey.

However, there are different voices within European Union as to how Turkey should be dealt with. In spite of demand from Cyprus for tough measures against Turkey, countries like Germany are in favour of rsolution through dialogue.&nbsp;

This has led to absence of the 'united' voice Emmanuel Macron is appealing for. 
&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron called for the need for Europe to have a 'united and clear' voice on Turkey. His appeal has come even as European Union remained indecisive about its response to dispute between Turkey, Greece and Cyprus.

French President Emmanuel Macron called for the need for Europe to have a 'united and clear' voice on Turkey. His appeal has come even as European Union remained indecisive about its response to dispute between Turkey, Greece and Cyprus. The countries are at an unease with each other ever sinced Turkey started drilling for natural resources in eastern Mediterranean Sea. These drilling activities have thrown up diputes of jurisdiction between the countries. Macron's call for a 'united and clear voice' has come just when Europen Union is struggling to project a unified voice on foreign policy matters. Belarus is still witnessing large scale demoinstrations against Lukashenko. Also Read | Mediterranean crisis: Greece to boost military amid tension with Turkey European Union's foreign policy needs a unanimous vote from 27 member states. However, Cyprus has been reluctant to give its nod to sanctions on Belarus unless strong measures are taken against Turkey. However, there are different voices within European Union as to how Turkey should be dealt with. In spite of demand from Cyprus for tough measures against Turkey, countries like Germany are in favour of rsolution through dialogue. This has led to absence of the 'united' voice Emmanuel Macron is appealing for.

Europe needs 'united and clear voice' on Turkey: Macron

Once billed as the diplomatic high point in China-European Union relations, a summit on Monday is likely to show how far the relationship has ebbed, with the main achievement a deal involving Irish whiskey and Pixian bean paste.

Originally due to take place in Leipzig, the summit will be held by video and bring together Chinese President Xi Jinping with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and the EU`s chief executive and its chairman, after a tense video call in June.

In contrast to a summit in April 2019, when Xi pledged to open up the Chinese economy to EU companies, the meeting is set to show how wide the differences are on issues ranging from climate to trade, Hong Kong and the coronavirus.

"The ball is deep in the Chinese court when it comes to building a reciprocal trade relationship," said a senior EU official preparing the meeting, which starts at 1200 GMT on Monday. No final communique is planned, EU officials said.

European attitudes have hardened towards Beijing because of the novel coronavirus, which many scientists believe originated in China, and because of a new security law on Hong Kong that the West says curtails basic rights.

The EU has warned China of consequences over its security law in the former British colony of Hong Kong, although it has avoided economic sanctions. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has described China as a "new empire", urging the bloc to take a tougher stance on Beijing.

The EU and China will sign a deal to protect European regional food designations in China and Chinese equivalents in the EU.

The pact significantly expands the number of foods protected as "geographical indications" (GIs) and should help boost trade in higher-value goods such as Irish whiskey, feta and China`s Pixian bean paste.

However, efforts to agree an investment pact by the end of the year, which would give European companies greater access to the Chinese market, have stumbled.

The EU also wants China to strive to end its role as a top world polluter and to stop construction of coal-based power stations, also ending financing of them elsewhere. That means China should bring forward its year of peak greenhouse gas emissions to 2025 from 2030, the EU says.

Once billed as the diplomatic high point in China-European Union relations, a summit on Monday is likely to show how far the relationship has ebbed, with the main achievement a deal involving Irish whiskey and Pixian bean paste.

Once billed as the diplomatic high point in China-European Union relations, a summit on Monday is likely to show how far the relationship has ebbed, with the main achievement a deal involving Irish whiskey and Pixian bean paste. Originally due to take place in Leipzig, the summit will be held by video and bring together Chinese President Xi Jinping with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and the EU`s chief executive and its chairman, after a tense video call in June. In contrast to a summit in April 2019, when Xi pledged to open up the Chinese economy to EU companies, the meeting is set to show how wide the differences are on issues ranging from climate to trade, Hong Kong and the coronavirus. "The ball is deep in the Chinese court when it comes to building a reciprocal trade relationship," said a senior EU official preparing the meeting, which starts at 1200 GMT on Monday. No final communique is planned, EU officials said. European attitudes have hardened towards Beijing because of the novel coronavirus, which many scientists believe originated in China, and because of a new security law on Hong Kong that the West says curtails basic rights. The EU has warned China of consequences over its security law in the former British colony of Hong Kong, although it has avoided economic sanctions. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has described China as a "new empire", urging the bloc to take a tougher stance on Beijing. The EU and China will sign a deal to protect European regional food designations in China and Chinese equivalents in the EU. The pact significantly expands the number of foods protected as "geographical indications" (GIs) and should help boost trade in higher-value goods such as Irish whiskey, feta and China`s Pixian bean paste. However, efforts to agree an investment pact by the end of the year, which would give European companies greater access to the Chinese market, have stumbled. The EU also wants China to strive to end its role as a top world polluter and to stop construction of coal-based power stations, also ending financing of them elsewhere. That means China should bring forward its year of peak greenhouse gas emissions to 2025 from 2030, the EU says.

EU-China summit to mark soured relations with deal on whiskey

Britain has reached a free trade agreement with Japan, its first since leaving the European Union earlier this year.

The deal was agreed to in principle on Friday.

The UK Department for International Trade said in a statement that it will increase trade between the two countries by about £15.2 billion ($19.5 billion).

As a result, UK businesses won't face tariffs on 99% of exports to Japan, including on products such as knitwear, biscuits and coats.

Also, Japanese car manufacturers including Nissan (NSANF) will enjoy reduced tariffs on parts coming into the UK and streamlined regulatory procedures, according to the statement.

The UK government plans to replicate dozens of EU trade deals with third countries before its transitional agreement with the bloc expires at the end of the year. If the deals don't materialise, British companies could face barriers to doing business in most of the foreign markets they serve starting next year.

Meanwhile, the European Union stepped up planning for a 'no-deal' Brexit on Friday after Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government refused to revoke an ultimatum on breaking the divorce treaty that Brussels says will sink four years of talks.

Britain said explicitly this week that it plans to break international law by breaching parts of the Withdrawal Agreement treaty that it signed in January, when it formally left the bloc.

Britain says the move is aimed at clarifying ambiguities, but it caused a new crisis in talks less than four months before the United Kingdom is due to complete its departure from the EU's orbit when a transition period ends in December.

The EU has demanded that Britain scrap the plan to breach the divorce treaty by the end of this month. Britain has refused, saying its parliament is sovereign above international law.

EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier said on Thursday, after talks in London, that the bloc was increasing its planning for a no-deal Brexit at the end of this year after trade talks made little progress.

Investment banks have increased their estimates of the chances of a messy end to Britain's divorce from the trading and political bloc it first joined in 1973, and sterling has fallen against the dollar and the euro.

European Commission Vice President Maros Sefcovic urged Britain to scrap by the end of September the main elements of new legislation put forward this week that would override parts of the Withdrawal Agreement, but Britain said parliament would debate the bill on Monday.

The bill will face opposition in both houses of parliament as many senior British politicians have expressed shock that London is explicitly planning to breach international law.

Barnier's team will brief the 27 members of the EU on the progress of trade talks on Friday. 
&nbsp;

Britain has reached a free trade agreement with Japan, its first since leaving the European Union earlier this year. The deal was agreed to in principle on Friday.

Britain has reached a free trade agreement with Japan, its first since leaving the European Union earlier this year. The deal was agreed to in principle on Friday. The UK Department for International Trade said in a statement that it will increase trade between the two countries by about £15.2 billion ($19.5 billion). As a result, UK businesses won't face tariffs on 99% of exports to Japan, including on products such as knitwear, biscuits and coats. Also, Japanese car manufacturers including Nissan (NSANF) will enjoy reduced tariffs on parts coming into the UK and streamlined regulatory procedures, according to the statement. The UK government plans to replicate dozens of EU trade deals with third countries before its transitional agreement with the bloc expires at the end of the year. If the deals don't materialise, British companies could face barriers to doing business in most of the foreign markets they serve starting next year. Meanwhile, the European Union stepped up planning for a 'no-deal' Brexit on Friday after Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government refused to revoke an ultimatum on breaking the divorce treaty that Brussels says will sink four years of talks. Britain said explicitly this week that it plans to break international law by breaching parts of the Withdrawal Agreement treaty that it signed in January, when it formally left the bloc. Britain says the move is aimed at clarifying ambiguities, but it caused a new crisis in talks less than four months before the United Kingdom is due to complete its departure from the EU's orbit when a transition period ends in December. The EU has demanded that Britain scrap the plan to breach the divorce treaty by the end of this month. Britain has refused, saying its parliament is sovereign above international law. EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier said on Thursday, after talks in London, that the bloc was increasing its planning for a no-deal Brexit at the end of this year after trade talks made little progress. Investment banks have increased their estimates of the chances of a messy end to Britain's divorce from the trading and political bloc it first joined in 1973, and sterling has fallen against the dollar and the euro. European Commission Vice President Maros Sefcovic urged Britain to scrap by the end of September the main elements of new legislation put forward this week that would override parts of the Withdrawal Agreement, but Britain said parliament would debate the bill on Monday. The bill will face opposition in both houses of parliament as many senior British politicians have expressed shock that London is explicitly planning to breach international law. Barnier's team will brief the 27 members of the EU on the progress of trade talks on Friday.

Britain clinches first major trade deal since leaving the EU

Ahead of a crucial round of talks between London and Brussels over the future trading relationship between the UK and the European Union, the British government made a startling admission: 'That it would be prepared to break the terms of an international treaty'.

UK might break international law on Brexit: Fear of 'no deal' Brexit returns to UK

The United Kingdom has set a deadline of October 15 to strike a free-trade deal with the European Union.

UK-EU Trade Deal: UK's Brexit negotiator calls on EU for interference

EU leader Ursula von der Leyen warned Monday that Britain is legally obliged to respect the Brexit withdrawal agreement, which must form the basis on any future relationship.

"I trust the British government to implement the Withdrawal Agreement, an obligation under international law and prerequisite for any future partnership," the president of the European Commission said.

Von der Leyen issued her warning&nbsp;after British Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave a deadline for a post-Brexit trade agreement with the European Union. He has set October 15 as the deadline, brushing off fears about "no-deal" chaos if talks fail.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-boris-johnson-sets-october-15-as-deadline-for-brexit-negotiations-with-eu-325611" hreflang="en">British PM Boris Johnson sets October 15 as deadline for Brexit negotiations with EU</a>

This week, the eighth round of negotiations between the two will resume in London. Both sides talking increasingly tough, amid accusations of intransigence and political brinkmanship.

His EU opposite number, Michel Barnier, this week said the talks stood or failed on the need to get an accord on EU access to UK fishing waters and state aid rules, but Britain was giving no ground.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-wont-blink-first-uk-warns-the-eu-on-brexit-trade-negotiations-325513" hreflang="en">'We won't blink first': UK warns the EU on Brexit trade negotiations</a>

According to Brussels, it indicated that mid-October was the latest a deal could be struck, given the need for translation and ratification by the European Parliament.

Despite months of refusing to confirm a firm cut-off date, Johnson agreed.

"There needs to be an agreement with our European friends by the time of the European Council on October 15 if it's going to be in force by the end of the year," he said in remarks released by his office.

"So, there is no sense in thinking beyond that point. If we can't agree by then, then I do not see that there will be a free trade agreement between us."

If this happens, the United Kingdom will have an "Australia-style" deal with the EU or one similar to that agreed with Canada and other countries, he said.

Australia trades with the EU under World Trade Organization rules and tariffs. But Johnson, whose government had said it wanted a "zero tariff, zero quota" regime, insisted it would still be a "good outcome" for Britain.

EU leader Ursula von der Leyen warned Monday that Britain is legally obliged to respect the Brexit withdrawal agreement, which must form the basis on any future relationship.

EU leader Ursula von der Leyen warned Monday that Britain is legally obliged to respect the Brexit withdrawal agreement, which must form the basis on any future relationship. "I trust the British government to implement the Withdrawal Agreement, an obligation under international law and prerequisite for any future partnership," the president of the European Commission said. Von der Leyen issued her warning after British Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave a deadline for a post-Brexit trade agreement with the European Union. He has set October 15 as the deadline, brushing off fears about "no-deal" chaos if talks fail. Also read: British PM Boris Johnson sets October 15 as deadline for Brexit negotiations with EU This week, the eighth round of negotiations between the two will resume in London. Both sides talking increasingly tough, amid accusations of intransigence and political brinkmanship. His EU opposite number, Michel Barnier, this week said the talks stood or failed on the need to get an accord on EU access to UK fishing waters and state aid rules, but Britain was giving no ground. Also read: 'We won't blink first': UK warns the EU on Brexit trade negotiations According to Brussels, it indicated that mid-October was the latest a deal could be struck, given the need for translation and ratification by the European Parliament. Despite months of refusing to confirm a firm cut-off date, Johnson agreed. "There needs to be an agreement with our European friends by the time of the European Council on October 15 if it's going to be in force by the end of the year," he said in remarks released by his office. "So, there is no sense in thinking beyond that point. If we can't agree by then, then I do not see that there will be a free trade agreement between us." If this happens, the United Kingdom will have an "Australia-style" deal with the EU or one similar to that agreed with Canada and other countries, he said. Australia trades with the EU under World Trade Organization rules and tariffs. But Johnson, whose government had said it wanted a "zero tariff, zero quota" regime, insisted it would still be a "good outcome" for Britain.

European Union chief warns UK must respect Brexit withdrawal deal

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves le Drian had strong words for a man at his position as he weighed in on the ongoing negotiations between Britain and the European Union. While underlining that it was urgent that Britain and the EU reached trade deal swiftly he said that British 'did not seem to understand' that in an negotiation, discussion on all issues will take place.

There are many points of disagreement between the UK and the EU. Both sides are locked in negotiations that have not made much headway after Britain's exit (Brexit) from the EU on January 31.

The British people do not seem to understand that if one wants to negotate a good deal, one must talk about all issues," Le Drian told France Inter radio.

"It`s not going well, with only two months left, it is urgent, the countdown has started. We prefer to reach a deal but we need to discuss the whole package, including fisheries, to avoid a no-deal," he added.

Also Read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/we-wont-blink-first-uk-warns-the-eu-on-brexit-trade-negotiations-325513">'We won't blink first': UK warns the EU on Brexit trade negotiations</a>

The United Kingdom formally left the EU on Jan. 31 but it remains in a transition phase under which EU rules still apply until Dec. 31, after which either a new trade regime comes into force or it will revert to rules set by the World Trade Organisation.

(With Reuters inputs)

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves le Drian had strong words for a man at his position as he weighed in on the ongoing negotiations between Britain and the European Union.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves le Drian had strong words for a man at his position as he weighed in on the ongoing negotiations between Britain and the European Union. While underlining that it was urgent that Britain and the EU reached trade deal swiftly he said that British 'did not seem to understand' that in an negotiation, discussion on all issues will take place. There are many points of disagreement between the UK and the EU. Both sides are locked in negotiations that have not made much headway after Britain's exit (Brexit) from the EU on January 31. The British people do not seem to understand that if one wants to negotate a good deal, one must talk about all issues," Le Drian told France Inter radio. "It`s not going well, with only two months left, it is urgent, the countdown has started. We prefer to reach a deal but we need to discuss the whole package, including fisheries, to avoid a no-deal," he added. Also Read: 'We won't blink first': UK warns the EU on Brexit trade negotiations The United Kingdom formally left the EU on Jan. 31 but it remains in a transition phase under which EU rules still apply until Dec. 31, after which either a new trade regime comes into force or it will revert to rules set by the World Trade Organisation. (With Reuters inputs)

Brexit trade deal: Brits 'do not understand', says French foreign minister

The European Commission said on Monday it would contribute 400 million euros ($476 million) to an initiative led by the World Health Organization to buy COVID-19 vaccines.

The initiative, dubbed COVAX, aims to purchase 2 billion doses by the end of 2021 of potential COVID-19 shots from several vaccine makers.

The EU Commission is negotiating advance purchases of COVID-19 vaccines with several drugmakers on behalf of the 27 EU states and has said in past weeks EU governments cannot buy vaccines through parallel procurement schemes.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/who-relaxes-norms-for-nations-to-join-struggling-global-covax-vaccine-facility-323718" hreflang="en">WHO relaxes norms for nations to join struggling global COVAX vaccine facility</a>

"Today, the Commission is announcing a 400 million euro contribution to COVAX for working together in purchasing future vaccines to the benefit of low and middle income countries," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said.

The Commission added in a statement that it was ready, together with EU states, "to put expertise and resources at work within COVAX to accelerate and scale-up development and manufacturing of a global supply of vaccines for citizens across the world, in poor and rich countries."

The European Commission said on Monday it would contribute 400 million euros ($476 million) to an initiative led by the World Health Organization to buy COVID-19 vaccines.

The European Commission said on Monday it would contribute 400 million euros ($476 million) to an initiative led by the World Health Organization to buy COVID-19 vaccines. The initiative, dubbed COVAX, aims to purchase 2 billion doses by the end of 2021 of potential COVID-19 shots from several vaccine makers. The EU Commission is negotiating advance purchases of COVID-19 vaccines with several drugmakers on behalf of the 27 EU states and has said in past weeks EU governments cannot buy vaccines through parallel procurement schemes. Also read: WHO relaxes norms for nations to join struggling global COVAX vaccine facility "Today, the Commission is announcing a 400 million euro contribution to COVAX for working together in purchasing future vaccines to the benefit of low and middle income countries," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said. The Commission added in a statement that it was ready, together with EU states, "to put expertise and resources at work within COVAX to accelerate and scale-up development and manufacturing of a global supply of vaccines for citizens across the world, in poor and rich countries."

EU offers 400 million euros to WHO-led COVID-19 vaccine initiative

The EU on Friday warned Turkey it could face fresh sanctions,&nbsp;including tough economic measures,&nbsp;unless progress is made in reducing soaring tensions with Greece and Cyprus in the eastern Mediterranean.

EU diplomatic chief Josep Borrell said the bloc wanted to give "a serious chance to dialogue" but was steadfast in its support for member states Greece and Cyprus in the crisis, which has raised fears of a military standoff.

A dispute over maritime borders and gas drilling rights has reignited the long-running rivalry between Athens and Ankara, with the two neighbours staging rival naval drills.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/turkey-versus-greece-a-long-history-of-disputes-323392">Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes</a>

EU foreign ministers meeting for talks in Berlin agreed to a request from Cyprus to sanction more individuals for their role in Turkey's exploratory drilling in waters claimed by the island.

Borrell urged Ankara to "abstain from unilateral actions" as a basic condition to allow dialogue,&nbsp;which Germany is trying to broker,&nbsp;to advance.

"We agreed that in the absence of progress in engaging Turkey we could develop a list of further restrictive measures that could be discussed at the European Council on September 24 and 25," Borrell said after the talks.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Asked what these measures might entail, Borrell said sanctions could be extended to ships or other assets involved in the drilling, as well as prohibiting the use of EU ports and supplies and restricting "economic and financial infrastructure related with this activity".</div>

Wide-ranging sanctions against whole sectors of the Turkish economy could also be considered, he said, but indicated these might only come into play if more targeted measures against the drilling were not effective.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/video-greece-and-uae-hold-military-exercises-323842/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Athens welcomed Friday's developments. "I think the Greek side has got what it could, that is, possible sanctions if Turkey does not choose de-escalation and does not return to dialogue," Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias told Greek media.

"I hope that Turkey will come to its senses, stop the provocations, stop the arbitrary actions and stop violating international law."

But there was anger from Turkey, which said the EU's "unconditional" support for what it called Greece and Cyprus's "maximalist" positions ignored Ankara's legitimate claims and was itself a source of tension.

"As Turkey each time emphasises dialogue and diplomacy, the EU's recourse to the language of sanctions will not help solve the resolution of existing problems and will in fact push our country's determination further," Turkish Foreign Ministry Spokesman Hami Aksoy said in a statement.

"If the EU wants to find a solution in the eastern Mediterranean, they should act without bias and should be an honest mediator."

The crisis splits members of the NATO alliance and in a phone call with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday alliance chief Jens Stoltenberg stressed "dialogue and de-escalation", a tweet said.

The Turkish presidency said Erdogan told Stolteberg that "NATO should fulfill its responsibility against unilateral steps that disregard international law and harms regional peace."

The EU on Friday warned Turkey it could face fresh sanctions, including tough economic measures, unless progress is made in reducing soaring tensions with Greece and Cyprus in the eastern Mediterranean.

The EU on Friday warned Turkey it could face fresh sanctions, including tough economic measures, unless progress is made in reducing soaring tensions with Greece and Cyprus in the eastern Mediterranean. EU diplomatic chief Josep Borrell said the bloc wanted to give "a serious chance to dialogue" but was steadfast in its support for member states Greece and Cyprus in the crisis, which has raised fears of a military standoff. A dispute over maritime borders and gas drilling rights has reignited the long-running rivalry between Athens and Ankara, with the two neighbours staging rival naval drills. Also see: Turkey versus Greece: A long history of disputes EU foreign ministers meeting for talks in Berlin agreed to a request from Cyprus to sanction more individuals for their role in Turkey's exploratory drilling in waters claimed by the island. Borrell urged Ankara to "abstain from unilateral actions" as a basic condition to allow dialogue, which Germany is trying to broker, to advance. "We agreed that in the absence of progress in engaging Turkey we could develop a list of further restrictive measures that could be discussed at the European Council on September 24 and 25," Borrell said after the talks. Asked what these measures might entail, Borrell said sanctions could be extended to ships or other assets involved in the drilling, as well as prohibiting the use of EU ports and supplies and restricting "economic and financial infrastructure related with this activity". Wide-ranging sanctions against whole sectors of the Turkish economy could also be considered, he said, but indicated these might only come into play if more targeted measures against the drilling were not effective. Athens welcomed Friday's developments. "I think the Greek side has got what it could, that is, possible sanctions if Turkey does not choose de-escalation and does not return to dialogue," Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias told Greek media. "I hope that Turkey will come to its senses, stop the provocations, stop the arbitrary actions and stop violating international law." But there was anger from Turkey, which said the EU's "unconditional" support for what it called Greece and Cyprus's "maximalist" positions ignored Ankara's legitimate claims and was itself a source of tension. "As Turkey each time emphasises dialogue and diplomacy, the EU's recourse to the language of sanctions will not help solve the resolution of existing problems and will in fact push our country's determination further," Turkish Foreign Ministry Spokesman Hami Aksoy said in a statement. "If the EU wants to find a solution in the eastern Mediterranean, they should act without bias and should be an honest mediator." The crisis splits members of the NATO alliance and in a phone call with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday alliance chief Jens Stoltenberg stressed "dialogue and de-escalation", a tweet said. The Turkish presidency said Erdogan told Stolteberg that "NATO should fulfill its responsibility against unilateral steps that disregard international law and harms regional peace."

Mediterranean crisis: European Union warns Turkey of imposing fresh sanctions

EU trade commissioner Phil Hogan apologised on Sunday as he faced calls to resign for attending an Irish parliamentary golf society dinner which breached COVID-19 guidelines.

The event -- attended by a cabinet minister, a supreme court judge and swathes of lawmakers -- was held on Wednesday, just 24 hours after the government announced new coronavirus restrictions.

Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin urged Hogan, a former Irish government minister, to "consider his position" after revelations he was one of the 82 attendees at the dinner.

In the face of a fresh surge in cases, Dublin specifically said there should be no "formal or informal events or parties" at hotel restaurants.

The dinner has sparked a series of resignations at the top tier of Irish politics and prompted Martin to decide Sunday to recall parliament.

"I wish to apologise fully and unreservedly for attending," Hogan said in a statement.

"I acknowledge my actions have touched a nerve for the people of Ireland, something for which I am profoundly sorry."

Irish Agriculture Minister Dara Calleary and deputy chair of parliament's upper chamber Jerry Buttimer have both already resigned for attending the event.

Hogan said he had spoken to Martin and respected his views, and said he had been reporting to the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen.

Later on Sunday, a Commission spokesman said von der Leyen was "following the situation closely" and had ordered Hogan to prepare a report detailing the event.

"It is important that facts are established in detail to carefully assess the situation," the spokesman said.

Hogan previously said he had been assured the dinner would comply with government coronavirus guidelines and did not offer an apology.

On Saturday, Martin and deputy prime minister Leo Varadkar -- the head of Fine Gael, the party for which Hogan previously served -- said in a joint statement that "the commissioner's apology came late" and that he needed to "give a full account and explanations of his actions".

The Irish Examiner newspaper -- which revealed details of the dinner on Thursday -- said guests sat at tables of 10 in breach of coronavirus guidelines, and organisers erected a room divider in a bid to skirt legislation banning gatherings of more than 50.

Police on Friday said they had opened an investigation into the event for alleged breaches of that same legislation.

EU trade commissioner Phil Hogan apologised on Sunday as he faced calls to resign for attending an Irish parliamentary golf society dinner which breached COVID-19 guidelines.

EU trade commissioner Phil Hogan apologised on Sunday as he faced calls to resign for attending an Irish parliamentary golf society dinner which breached COVID-19 guidelines. The event -- attended by a cabinet minister, a supreme court judge and swathes of lawmakers -- was held on Wednesday, just 24 hours after the government announced new coronavirus restrictions. Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin urged Hogan, a former Irish government minister, to "consider his position" after revelations he was one of the 82 attendees at the dinner. In the face of a fresh surge in cases, Dublin specifically said there should be no "formal or informal events or parties" at hotel restaurants. The dinner has sparked a series of resignations at the top tier of Irish politics and prompted Martin to decide Sunday to recall parliament. "I wish to apologise fully and unreservedly for attending," Hogan said in a statement. "I acknowledge my actions have touched a nerve for the people of Ireland, something for which I am profoundly sorry." Irish Agriculture Minister Dara Calleary and deputy chair of parliament's upper chamber Jerry Buttimer have both already resigned for attending the event. Hogan said he had spoken to Martin and respected his views, and said he had been reporting to the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen. Later on Sunday, a Commission spokesman said von der Leyen was "following the situation closely" and had ordered Hogan to prepare a report detailing the event. "It is important that facts are established in detail to carefully assess the situation," the spokesman said. Hogan previously said he had been assured the dinner would comply with government coronavirus guidelines and did not offer an apology. On Saturday, Martin and deputy prime minister Leo Varadkar -- the head of Fine Gael, the party for which Hogan previously served -- said in a joint statement that "the commissioner's apology came late" and that he needed to "give a full account and explanations of his actions". The Irish Examiner newspaper -- which revealed details of the dinner on Thursday -- said guests sat at tables of 10 in breach of coronavirus guidelines, and organisers erected a room divider in a bid to skirt legislation banning gatherings of more than 50. Police on Friday said they had opened an investigation into the event for alleged breaches of that same legislation.

EU trade commissioner apologises for virus breach

EU's top diplomat Josep Borell on Sunday warned that Belarus should not be allowed to become a "second Ukraine" and said it was necessary to deal with its long-time President Alexander Lukashenko.

EU's top diplomat Josep Borell on Sunday warned that Belarus should not be allowed to become a "second Ukraine" and said it was necessary to deal with its long-time President Alexander Lukashenko. Also read: Lukashenko warns of NATO troops near borders as Belarus opposition calls for Minsk rally Results of Belarus' presidential elections that were held on August 9 is rejected by Brussels. The elections have sparked massive protests in the country against President Alexander Lukashenko. But in Ukraine "tensions between Europe and Russia were settled with shooting, with violence and the disintegration of Ukraine's territory that has lasted to this day," Borell told the newspaper in Sunday edition of El Pais. "The Belarusians' problem today isn't to choose between Russia and Europe, it's to obtain liberty and democracy," he added. "Europe has no intention of turning Belarus into a second Ukraine." Ties between the European capitals and Moscow strained ever since Russia annexed Crimea in 2014, prompting the EU to impose sanctions that remain in place today. Borell compared Lukashenko's situation to that of Venezuelan leader Maduro and urged the EU to maintain the dialogue with the Belarusian leader. "Maduro and Lukashenko are in exactly the same situation. We don't recognise their elections as legitimate," Borell said. "Nevertheless, whether we like it or not they control the government and we have to continue dealing with them, although we don't recognise their democratic legitimacy." (Inputs from AFP)

EU's top diplomat warns Belarus to avoid being 'second Ukraine'

The European Union said Saturday it saw "new hope" for Libya after the country's rival administrations declared a ceasefire and said they would hold nationwide elections.

The surprise development on Friday followed multiple visits by top foreign diplomats to Libya in recent weeks, and came after a series of agreements and pledges that, however, have failed to be implemented.

EU diplomatic chief Josep Borrell described it as a "constructive first step forward".

The announcement "demonstrates the determination of the Libyan leaders to overcome the current stalemate and creates a new hope for a common ground towards a peaceful political solution to the longstanding Libyan crisis and the termination of&nbsp;all&nbsp;foreign interference throughout the country", he said.&nbsp;

He urged "concrete actions" to enable a permanent ceasefire and a relaunch of the political process, requiring "the departure of all foreign fighters and mercenaries present in Libya" as well as the resumption of peace negotiations "in the framework of the UN-led Berlin process."

Borrell also called on all Libyan parties to implementat economic reform "with a view to agreeing on a fair and transparent distribution mechanism for oil revenues and to enhancing the governance of Libyan economic and financial institutions."

Libya has been torn by violence since the 2011 toppling and killing of longtime dictator Moamer Kadhafi in a NATO-backed uprising.

The European Union said Saturday it saw "new hope" for Libya after the country's rival administrations declared a ceasefire and said they would hold nationwide elections.

The European Union said Saturday it saw "new hope" for Libya after the country's rival administrations declared a ceasefire and said they would hold nationwide elections. The surprise development on Friday followed multiple visits by top foreign diplomats to Libya in recent weeks, and came after a series of agreements and pledges that, however, have failed to be implemented. EU diplomatic chief Josep Borrell described it as a "constructive first step forward". The announcement "demonstrates the determination of the Libyan leaders to overcome the current stalemate and creates a new hope for a common ground towards a peaceful political solution to the longstanding Libyan crisis and the termination of all foreign interference throughout the country", he said. He urged "concrete actions" to enable a permanent ceasefire and a relaunch of the political process, requiring "the departure of all foreign fighters and mercenaries present in Libya" as well as the resumption of peace negotiations "in the framework of the UN-led Berlin process." Borrell also called on all Libyan parties to implementat economic reform "with a view to agreeing on a fair and transparent distribution mechanism for oil revenues and to enhancing the governance of Libyan economic and financial institutions." Libya has been torn by violence since the 2011 toppling and killing of longtime dictator Moamer Kadhafi in a NATO-backed uprising.

European Union sees 'new hope' for Libya with ceasefire

Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, the Belarusian opposition leader on Wednesday urged European Union leaders to reject the results of the presidential election which sparked massive protests and saw strongman leader Alexander Lukashenko claim a sixth term.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-warns-the-world-not-to-interfere-in-belarus-321570">Also read: Russian President Vladimir Putin warns the world not to interfere in Belarus</a>

"I call on you not to recognise these fraudulent elections," Tikhanovskaya said in video addressed to the European Council, adding that "Lukashenko has lost all legitimacy in the eyes of our nation and the world." 
 
Tikhanovskaya, the main challenger in Belarus's disputed presidential election had said on Monday that she was ready to take over the country's leadership after a wave of protests against President Alexander Lukashenko.

"I did not want to be a politician. But fate decreed that I'd find myself on the frontline of a confrontation against arbitrary rule and injustice," Svetlana Tikhanovskaya said in a new video from exile in Lithuania.

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned world leaders against interfering in Belarus, country engulfed in the political crisis, as protests against its leader continued to swell.

Putin spoke to French President and German chancellor in separate phone calls and said that any such attempts would lead to an escalation of the political crisis in Belarus.

(With inputs from agencies)

Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, the Belarusian opposition leader on Wednesday urged European Union leaders to reject the results of the presidential election which sparked massive protests and saw strongman leader Alexander Lukashenko claim a sixth term.

Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, the Belarusian opposition leader on Wednesday urged European Union leaders to reject the results of the presidential election which sparked massive protests and saw strongman leader Alexander Lukashenko claim a sixth term. Also read: Russian President Vladimir Putin warns the world not to interfere in Belarus "I call on you not to recognise these fraudulent elections," Tikhanovskaya said in video addressed to the European Council, adding that "Lukashenko has lost all legitimacy in the eyes of our nation and the world." Tikhanovskaya, the main challenger in Belarus's disputed presidential election had said on Monday that she was ready to take over the country's leadership after a wave of protests against President Alexander Lukashenko. "I did not want to be a politician. But fate decreed that I'd find myself on the frontline of a confrontation against arbitrary rule and injustice," Svetlana Tikhanovskaya said in a new video from exile in Lithuania. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned world leaders against interfering in Belarus, country engulfed in the political crisis, as protests against its leader continued to swell. Putin spoke to French President and German chancellor in separate phone calls and said that any such attempts would lead to an escalation of the political crisis in Belarus. (With inputs from agencies)

Belarusian opposition politician Tsikhanouskaya urges European Union to respect people's choice

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

European Union foreign ministers on Friday&nbsp;took the first step towards imposing new sanctions on&nbsp;Belarus by agreeing to drawing up a list of individuals to be blacklisted&nbsp;in response to strongman Alexander Lukashenko's post-election crackdown.

At a videoconference hosted by Brussels' diplomatic chief Josep Borrell, the foreign ministers also agreed to take up the stand-off between Greece and Turkey at their next face-to-face talks.

As Lukashenko's main opposition challenger called for mass weekend rallies to denounce the long-standing leader's disputed claim of re-election, his western neighbours are stepping up pressure. &nbsp;

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thousands-stage-flower-protest-in-belarus-as-eu-weighs-sanctions-320218">Thousands stage flower protest in Belarus as EU weighs sanctions</a>

"The foreign ministers agreed to impose sanctions on those responsible for the repression and a list of names will be drawn up," one European official said.

Sweden's Foreign Minister Ann Linde said in a tweet that the "EU will now initiate a process of sanctions against those responsible for the violence, arrests and fraud in connection with the election."

Once the list is finalised, each individual or entity on it will have to be approved unanimously by member states, but officials said none of the 27 raised objections to the idea of sanctions.

At least six other European Union states are broadly in favour of imposing sanctions.&nbsp;While Austria, Sweden and Germany lead the hawkish camp, Poland, the Czech Republic, Denmark and the Baltic states have also called for mediation between Lukashenko and the opposition.

Ahead of the meeting there had been calls for action from several EU members, especially Belarus' neighbours Poland and Lithuania, which is now hosting exiled opposition candidate Svetlana Tikhanovskaya.

Poland, Latvia and Lithuania say they are ready to act as mediators to try to resolve the post-election crisis, after a poll that Brussels has already said was "neither free nor fair".

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda has spoken to Tikhanovskaya and, according to his spokesman, she is ready to help him implement a plan for "peaceful dialogue" to resolve the crisis.

Lithuania also on Friday offered to treat Belarusians injured during the protests and suggested setting up the EU fund to support "the victims of repression".

European Union foreign ministers on Friday took the first step towards imposing new sanctions on Belarus by agreeing to drawing up a list of individuals to be blacklisted in response to strongman Alexander Lukashenko's post-election crackdown.

European Union foreign ministers on Friday took the first step towards imposing new sanctions on Belarus by agreeing to drawing up a list of individuals to be blacklisted in response to strongman Alexander Lukashenko's post-election crackdown. At a videoconference hosted by Brussels' diplomatic chief Josep Borrell, the foreign ministers also agreed to take up the stand-off between Greece and Turkey at their next face-to-face talks. As Lukashenko's main opposition challenger called for mass weekend rallies to denounce the long-standing leader's disputed claim of re-election, his western neighbours are stepping up pressure. Also see: Thousands stage flower protest in Belarus as EU weighs sanctions "The foreign ministers agreed to impose sanctions on those responsible for the repression and a list of names will be drawn up," one European official said. Sweden's Foreign Minister Ann Linde said in a tweet that the "EU will now initiate a process of sanctions against those responsible for the violence, arrests and fraud in connection with the election." Once the list is finalised, each individual or entity on it will have to be approved unanimously by member states, but officials said none of the 27 raised objections to the idea of sanctions. At least six other European Union states are broadly in favour of imposing sanctions. While Austria, Sweden and Germany lead the hawkish camp, Poland, the Czech Republic, Denmark and the Baltic states have also called for mediation between Lukashenko and the opposition. Ahead of the meeting there had been calls for action from several EU members, especially Belarus' neighbours Poland and Lithuania, which is now hosting exiled opposition candidate Svetlana Tikhanovskaya. Poland, Latvia and Lithuania say they are ready to act as mediators to try to resolve the post-election crisis, after a poll that Brussels has already said was "neither free nor fair". Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda has spoken to Tikhanovskaya and, according to his spokesman, she is ready to help him implement a plan for "peaceful dialogue" to resolve the crisis. Lithuania also on Friday offered to treat Belarusians injured during the protests and suggested setting up the EU fund to support "the victims of repression".

European Union takes first step to slap new sanctions on Belarus, debates Turkey crisis

Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi will visit Britain this week for what he said will be difficult talks with British Trade Minister Liz Truss, in the hope of finding middle ground and concluding a post-Brexit trade deal.

"It is indispensable to swiftly form a framework for trade and investment between Japan and Britain that will replace the Japan-EU EPA to ensure the smooth continuation of bilateral businesses," Motegi told reporters on Tuesday, referring to an economic partnership agreement with the EU.

The two countries hope to clinch a deal before Britain’s transition out of the European Union concludes at the year end, to avoid any gaps in bilateral trade arrangements.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-shifts-gear-to-counter-chinese-north-korea-aggression-317933">Also read:&nbsp;Japan shifts gear to counter Chinese, North Korea aggression</a>

Motegi`s Aug. 5-7 visit to Britain will be the first overseas trip for any Japanese government minister since the global spread of the novel coronavirus, he said.

"Difficult negotiations such as this, where national interest is at stake, cannot be conducted over the telephone," he told a regular news conference.

"We will negotiate face-to-face. I`m afraid negotiations will last many hours, but I would like to find middle ground and reach an agreement."

Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi will visit Britain this week for what he said will be difficult talks with British Trade Minister Liz Truss, in the hope of finding middle ground and concluding a post-Brexit trade deal.

Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi will visit Britain this week for what he said will be difficult talks with British Trade Minister Liz Truss, in the hope of finding middle ground and concluding a post-Brexit trade deal. "It is indispensable to swiftly form a framework for trade and investment between Japan and Britain that will replace the Japan-EU EPA to ensure the smooth continuation of bilateral businesses," Motegi told reporters on Tuesday, referring to an economic partnership agreement with the EU. The two countries hope to clinch a deal before Britain’s transition out of the European Union concludes at the year end, to avoid any gaps in bilateral trade arrangements. Also read: Japan shifts gear to counter Chinese, North Korea aggression Motegi`s Aug. 5-7 visit to Britain will be the first overseas trip for any Japanese government minister since the global spread of the novel coronavirus, he said. "Difficult negotiations such as this, where national interest is at stake, cannot be conducted over the telephone," he told a regular news conference. "We will negotiate face-to-face. I`m afraid negotiations will last many hours, but I would like to find middle ground and reach an agreement."

Japanese minister to visit Britain for 'difficult' talks on trade deal

China is being seen as a growing threat by traditional powers and not just the United States. Now even the European Union has decided to act Chinese intelligence agencies and its assets. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: EU sanctions Chinese hackers, Sanctions include travel ban and asset freeze

The European Union imposed its first ever sanctions against alleged cyber attackers on Thursday, targeting Russian and Chinese individuals and a specialist unit of Moscow's GRU military intelligence agency.

The member states said measures would be taken against six individuals and three entities involved in various actions, including the attempt to hack into the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons.

Thousands of Russian and Chinese-linked social media accounts have launched a coordinated effort to spread alarm about the new coronavirus, disrupting global efforts to fight the epidemic according to&nbsp;Fernando Arias,&nbsp;the head of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).

The accounts, run by humans, not bots, post at similar times in English, Spanish, Italian, German and French and can be linked back to Russian proxies, or carry similar messages to Chinese-backed outlets like Xinhua and&nbsp;Russian-backed outlets such as RT and Sputnik, he added.

The disinformation campaign was identified by US monitors in mid-January after Chinese officials announced a third death from the new coronavirus in Wuhan, the epicentre of the outbreak.

The European Union imposed its first ever sanctions against alleged cyber attackers on Thursday, targeting Russian and Chinese individuals and a specialist unit of Moscow's GRU military intelligence agency.

The European Union imposed its first ever sanctions against alleged cyber attackers on Thursday, targeting Russian and Chinese individuals and a specialist unit of Moscow's GRU military intelligence agency. The member states said measures would be taken against six individuals and three entities involved in various actions, including the attempt to hack into the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. Thousands of Russian and Chinese-linked social media accounts have launched a coordinated effort to spread alarm about the new coronavirus, disrupting global efforts to fight the epidemic according to Fernando Arias, the head of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). The accounts, run by humans, not bots, post at similar times in English, Spanish, Italian, German and French and can be linked back to Russian proxies, or carry similar messages to Chinese-backed outlets like Xinhua and Russian-backed outlets such as RT and Sputnik, he added. The disinformation campaign was identified by US monitors in mid-January after Chinese officials announced a third death from the new coronavirus in Wuhan, the epicentre of the outbreak.

EU slaps sanctions on Russian and Chinese 'cyber attackers'

Facebook&nbsp;has won the first round of its court battle against what it says are excessive demands from European Union antitrust regulators after Europe's second-top court temporarily halted such requests until it makes a final ruling.

The US&nbsp;social media group is being investigated by the European Commission for its trove of data and online marketplace, which may lead to hefty fines and orders to change its business practices.

On July 15, Facebook&nbsp;sued the EU competition enforcer at the Luxembourg-based General Court, saying that the Commission was seeking information beyond what is necessary, including highly personal details.

It also asked for interim measures to stop a May 4 information request. Failure to comply could expose it to a daily penalty payment of $9.4 million.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/trump-campaign-runs-facebook-advertisements-asking-if-he-should-ban-tiktok-314800">Trump campaign runs Facebook advertisements asking if he should ban TikTok</a>

The Court in a judgment dated July 24 suspended the EU request while waiting for the Commission's comment and its ruling on&nbsp;Facebook's application for interim relief.

It said such a move would "prevent a situation whereby the contested material is disclosed in violation of the fundamental right to privacy of the applicant’s management and employees, depriving of any effect any order for interim measures that may eventually be granted".

EU regulators are trawling documents looking for about 2,500 search phrases which include "big question", "shut down" and "not good for us", and which could be found in employees' health information or even job applications, said a person familiar with the matter.

Facebook has won the first round of its court battle against what it says are excessive demands from European Union antitrust regulators after Europe's second-top court temporarily halted such requests until it makes a final ruling.

Facebook has won the first round of its court battle against what it says are excessive demands from European Union antitrust regulators after Europe's second-top court temporarily halted such requests until it makes a final ruling. The US social media group is being investigated by the European Commission for its trove of data and online marketplace, which may lead to hefty fines and orders to change its business practices. On July 15, Facebook sued the EU competition enforcer at the Luxembourg-based General Court, saying that the Commission was seeking information beyond what is necessary, including highly personal details. It also asked for interim measures to stop a May 4 information request. Failure to comply could expose it to a daily penalty payment of $9.4 million. Also read: Trump campaign runs Facebook advertisements asking if he should ban TikTok The Court in a judgment dated July 24 suspended the EU request while waiting for the Commission's comment and its ruling on Facebook's application for interim relief. It said such a move would "prevent a situation whereby the contested material is disclosed in violation of the fundamental right to privacy of the applicant’s management and employees, depriving of any effect any order for interim measures that may eventually be granted". EU regulators are trawling documents looking for about 2,500 search phrases which include "big question", "shut down" and "not good for us", and which could be found in employees' health information or even job applications, said a person familiar with the matter.

Facebook gains temporary court reprieve on EU antitrust data demand

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

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

European Union leaders in Brussels remained deadlocked Saturday over the COVID-19 recovery plan due to resistance from the Netherlands and its allies: Austria, Denmark, Finland and Sweden.

EU leaders were due to meet for a third day -- on Sunday -- to try and agree on a giant post-coronavirus economic recovery plan as four million residents of Barcelona in virus-ravaged Spain were effectively placed under lockdown.

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.

European Council president Charles Michel was expected to propose another plan to the 27 leaders at noon (1000 GMT) Sunday after his blueprints for a 750-billion-euro ($850 billion) package were refused by the richer northern member states.

Michel's latest proposal would keep the total recovery budget at 750 million euros, but shift the balance slightly from grants to loans.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte has insisted member states retain final approval of any funding -- an effective veto -- for recipients.

Michel's latest plan includes a "super emergency brake" that gives any country a three-day window to trigger a review by all member states of another's spending plans.

Meanwhile, Barcelona, one of Europe's most visited cities, effectively went back into lockdown Saturday.&nbsp;

Spain's COVID-19 death toll of 28,400 is one of Europe's worst and the country has identified more than 150 new virus clusters across the country.

The regional government of Catalonia urged nearly four million residents of metropolitan Barcelona to stay home unless absolutely necessary, banning gatherings of over 10 people and shutting cinemas, theatres and nightclubs, after the number of new cases tripled in a week.

The virus has now killed nearly 600,000 people and infected over 14 million as it continues to surge across the globe despite months of unprecedented lockdowns.

India hit one million cases on Friday, the day Brazil topped two million -- although the World Health Organization said Brazil's contagion has "plateaued" with the rate of infection stabilising after 77,000 deaths.

European Union leaders in Brussels remained deadlocked Saturday over the COVID-19 recovery plan due to resistance from the Netherlands and its allies: Austria, Denmark, Finland and Sweden.

European Union leaders in Brussels remained deadlocked Saturday over the COVID-19 recovery plan due to resistance from the Netherlands and its allies: Austria, Denmark, Finland and Sweden. EU leaders were due to meet for a third day -- on Sunday -- to try and agree on a giant post-coronavirus economic recovery plan as four million residents of Barcelona in virus-ravaged Spain were effectively placed under lockdown. 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. European Council president Charles Michel was expected to propose another plan to the 27 leaders at noon (1000 GMT) Sunday after his blueprints for a 750-billion-euro ($850 billion) package were refused by the richer northern member states. Michel's latest proposal would keep the total recovery budget at 750 million euros, but shift the balance slightly from grants to loans. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte has insisted member states retain final approval of any funding -- an effective veto -- for recipients. Michel's latest plan includes a "super emergency brake" that gives any country a three-day window to trigger a review by all member states of another's spending plans. Meanwhile, Barcelona, one of Europe's most visited cities, effectively went back into lockdown Saturday. Spain's COVID-19 death toll of 28,400 is one of Europe's worst and the country has identified more than 150 new virus clusters across the country. The regional government of Catalonia urged nearly four million residents of metropolitan Barcelona to stay home unless absolutely necessary, banning gatherings of over 10 people and shutting cinemas, theatres and nightclubs, after the number of new cases tripled in a week. The virus has now killed nearly 600,000 people and infected over 14 million as it continues to surge across the globe despite months of unprecedented lockdowns. India hit one million cases on Friday, the day Brazil topped two million -- although the World Health Organization said Brazil's contagion has "plateaued" with the rate of infection stabilising after 77,000 deaths.

EU leaders extend summit as they grapple over coronavirus, recovery plan

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

Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel said it was still possible that EU leaders could fail to reach an agreement on Sunday on a huge post-virus recovery plan for the shattered European economy.

Arriving for the third and probably final day of an extraordinary European summit, Merkel said the 27 leaders had "many positions" on the size of the fund, on rules for accessing it and on tying it to respect for the rule of law.

"I still can't say whether a solution will be found," she said. "There is a lot of good will... but it may also be that no result will be achieved today."

Earlier on Saturday, European Union leaders remained deadlocked over the COVID-19 recovery plan due to resistance from the Netherlands and its allies: Austria, Denmark, Finland and Sweden.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-leaders-extend-summit-as-they-grapple-over-coronavirus-recovery-plan-314359">Also read | EU leaders extend summit as they grapple over coronavirus, recovery plan</a>

EU leaders were due to meet for a third day -- on Sunday -- to try and agree on a giant post-coronavirus economic recovery plan as four million residents of Barcelona in virus-ravaged Spain were effectively placed under lockdown.

European Council president Charles Michel was expected to propose another plan to the 27 leaders at noon (1000 GMT) Sunday after his blueprints for a 750-billion-euro ($850 billion) package were refused by the richer northern member states.

Michel's latest proposal would keep the total recovery budget at 750 million euros, but shift the balance slightly from grants to loans.

The coronavirus has now killed nearly 600,000 people and infected over 14 million as it continues to surge across the globe despite months of unprecedented lockdowns.

(with inputs from agencies)

Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel said it was still possible that EU leaders could fail to reach an agreement on Sunday on a huge post-virus recovery plan for the shattered European economy.

Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel said it was still possible that EU leaders could fail to reach an agreement on Sunday on a huge post-virus recovery plan for the shattered European economy. Arriving for the third and probably final day of an extraordinary European summit, Merkel said the 27 leaders had "many positions" on the size of the fund, on rules for accessing it and on tying it to respect for the rule of law. "I still can't say whether a solution will be found," she said. "There is a lot of good will... but it may also be that no result will be achieved today." Earlier on Saturday, European Union leaders remained deadlocked over the COVID-19 recovery plan due to resistance from the Netherlands and its allies: Austria, Denmark, Finland and Sweden. Also read | EU leaders extend summit as they grapple over coronavirus, recovery plan EU leaders were due to meet for a third day -- on Sunday -- to try and agree on a giant post-coronavirus economic recovery plan as four million residents of Barcelona in virus-ravaged Spain were effectively placed under lockdown. European Council president Charles Michel was expected to propose another plan to the 27 leaders at noon (1000 GMT) Sunday after his blueprints for a 750-billion-euro ($850 billion) package were refused by the richer northern member states. Michel's latest proposal would keep the total recovery budget at 750 million euros, but shift the balance slightly from grants to loans. The coronavirus has now killed nearly 600,000 people and infected over 14 million as it continues to surge across the globe despite months of unprecedented lockdowns. (with inputs from agencies)

EU recovery summit could end with no deal despite extension, says Merkel

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

France's President Emmanuel Macron said Friday that the European Union was facing a "moment of truth", as leaders gathered for a summit to negotiate a huge post-coronavirus recovery plan.

"It's our European project that in play here," Macron said, as he arrived at the first face-to-face Brussels summit for five months, held under social distancing rules.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-1st-phase-3-clinical-trial-of-covid-19-inactivated-vaccine-begins-313875" hreflang="en">World's 1st phase 3 clinical trial of covid-19 inactivated vaccine begins</a>

EU health ministers had said on Thursday that&nbsp;they were planning a common strategy to prevent new coronavirus wave and that they were happy that the European Commission would support efforts of vaccine developers to produce safe and effective vaccines.

"We are at present in negotiations with industry, with member states, in partnership with member states in order to be able to have access to a vaccine or vaccines as quickly as possible, available in an equitable way to all," said the EU&nbsp;Commissioner for health and food safety Stella Kyriakides, said in a joint conference with EU health ministers.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazeneca-wins-coronavirus-vaccine-deal-with-germany-france-italy-and-the-netherlands-305648">Astrazeneca wins coronavirus vaccine deal with Germany, France, Italy and the Netherlands</a>

The EU is planning to spend around $2.3 billion on the advance purchase of vaccines in testing on behalf of its 27 member states.

EU countries are also pursuing their own initiatives, with Germany, France, Italy and the Netherlands making a joint deal with drugmaker AstraZeneca to buy up front its vaccine under development.

AstraZeneca, France's Sanofi, and US&nbsp;firms Pfizer, Novavax, Johnson and&nbsp;Johnson and Moderna are among companies trialing vaccines against the coronavirus.

France's President Emmanuel Macron said Friday that the European Union was facing a "moment of truth", as leaders gathered for a summit to negotiate a huge post-coronavirus recovery plan.

France's President Emmanuel Macron said Friday that the European Union was facing a "moment of truth", as leaders gathered for a summit to negotiate a huge post-coronavirus recovery plan. "It's our European project that in play here," Macron said, as he arrived at the first face-to-face Brussels summit for five months, held under social distancing rules. Also read: World's 1st phase 3 clinical trial of covid-19 inactivated vaccine begins EU health ministers had said on Thursday that they were planning a common strategy to prevent new coronavirus wave and that they were happy that the European Commission would support efforts of vaccine developers to produce safe and effective vaccines. "We are at present in negotiations with industry, with member states, in partnership with member states in order to be able to have access to a vaccine or vaccines as quickly as possible, available in an equitable way to all," said the EU Commissioner for health and food safety Stella Kyriakides, said in a joint conference with EU health ministers. Also read: Astrazeneca wins coronavirus vaccine deal with Germany, France, Italy and the Netherlands The EU is planning to spend around $2.3 billion on the advance purchase of vaccines in testing on behalf of its 27 member states. EU countries are also pursuing their own initiatives, with Germany, France, Italy and the Netherlands making a joint deal with drugmaker AstraZeneca to buy up front its vaccine under development. AstraZeneca, France's Sanofi, and US firms Pfizer, Novavax, Johnson and Johnson and Moderna are among companies trialing vaccines against the coronavirus.

European Union's coronavirus rescue summit 'moment of truth', says Macron

Europe's top court on Thursday rejected a key EU tool used to transfer Europeans' personal data across the Atlantic for commercial use but upheld the validity of another tool used by hundreds of thousands of companies to transfer data worldwide.

The decision 2016/1250 on the adequacy of the protection provided by the EU-US Data Protection Shield will potentially throw&nbsp;the business of big tech into legal chaos.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-hit-with-600000-euro-belgian-privacy-fine-313387" hreflang="en">Google hit with 600,000 Euro Belgian privacy fine</a>

The European Court of Justice struck down the arrangement, known as "Privacy Shield", saying it failed to provide Europeans with enough safeguards against US surveillance and security laws."

"However, it considers that Commission Decision 2010/87 on standard contractual clauses for the transfer of personal data to processors established in third countries is valid."

The rulings came in a clash between Facebook and Austrian privacy activist Max Schrems&nbsp;welcomed the&nbsp;decision.

<img alt="Max Schrems " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1697d340-e547-41c1-a60a-28b8f8e8b86f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2813%29_19.jpg" />

FILE PHOTO: Austrian lawyer and privacy activist Max Schrems prepares his laptop during an interview| REUTERS

"It looks perfect," he said in a spontanious reaction when the ruling hit headlines at his office in Vienna.

"The CJEU has anulled the "Privacy Shield" decision by the European Commission that allowed EU companies to easily transfer ("outsource") personal data to US providers in large quantities," non-profit NOYB, which he chairs, said in a statement.

"This decision is based on overreaching US surveillance laws that only protect "US&nbsp;persons" but not foreigners," it said.

Schrems had alleged the social media platform to unlawfully process personal data in breach of the European privacy regulation GDPR.

Europe's top court on Thursday rejected a key EU tool used to transfer Europeans' personal data across the Atlantic for commercial use but upheld the validity of another tool used by hundreds of thousands of companies to transfer data worldwide.

Europe's top court on Thursday rejected a key EU tool used to transfer Europeans' personal data across the Atlantic for commercial use but upheld the validity of another tool used by hundreds of thousands of companies to transfer data worldwide. The decision 2016/1250 on the adequacy of the protection provided by the EU-US Data Protection Shield will potentially throw the business of big tech into legal chaos. Also read: Google hit with 600,000 Euro Belgian privacy fine The European Court of Justice struck down the arrangement, known as "Privacy Shield", saying it failed to provide Europeans with enough safeguards against US surveillance and security laws." "However, it considers that Commission Decision 2010/87 on standard contractual clauses for the transfer of personal data to processors established in third countries is valid." The rulings came in a clash between Facebook and Austrian privacy activist Max Schrems welcomed the decision. FILE PHOTO: Austrian lawyer and privacy activist Max Schrems prepares his laptop during an interview| REUTERS "It looks perfect," he said in a spontanious reaction when the ruling hit headlines at his office in Vienna. "The CJEU has anulled the "Privacy Shield" decision by the European Commission that allowed EU companies to easily transfer ("outsource") personal data to US providers in large quantities," non-profit NOYB, which he chairs, said in a statement. "This decision is based on overreaching US surveillance laws that only protect "US persons" but not foreigners," it said. Schrems had alleged the social media platform to unlawfully process personal data in breach of the European privacy regulation GDPR.

Europe's top court nullifies EU-US data deal over privacy concerns

Foreign ministers of 11 countries have asked the members of the European Union to help them find possible solutions to stop the West Bank annexation.

The top politicians have asked Joseph Borell, the EU foreign policy chief, for possible legal consequences for Israel if it moves forward with its plans to annex the disputed West Bank region.

"We concur that any&nbsp;annexation&nbsp;of Palestinian territories occupied in 1967 would be a violation of international law and imperil the foundations of the peace process," the ministers said in a statement after a joint video conference.

The government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had set July 1 as the date when it could begin to annex Jewish settlements in the&nbsp;West&nbsp;Bank&nbsp;as well as the strategic Jordan Valley.

The move was endorsed by a Middle East plan unveiled by US President Donald Trump in January.

Netanyahu's office made no announcement on July 1 as expected, but said talks were continuing with US officials and Israeli security chiefs.

The EU has in recent weeks mounted a diplomatic campaign against&nbsp;annexation, highlighted by a visit to Jerusalem by German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas to raise a concern about the prospective plans.&nbsp;

But the bloc cannot threaten Israel with formal sanctions without unanimous support among members.&nbsp;

After occupying the&nbsp;West&nbsp;Bank&nbsp;in the 1967 Six-Day War, Israel began establishing a network of settlements the following decade. Construction continues to this day.

Foreign ministers of 11 countries have asked the members of the European Union to help them find possible solutions to stop the West Bank annexation. The top politicians have asked Joseph Borell, the EU foreign policy chief, for possible legal consequences for Israel if it moves forward with its plans to annex the disputed West Bank region.

Foreign ministers of 11 countries have asked the members of the European Union to help them find possible solutions to stop the West Bank annexation. The top politicians have asked Joseph Borell, the EU foreign policy chief, for possible legal consequences for Israel if it moves forward with its plans to annex the disputed West Bank region. "We concur that any annexation of Palestinian territories occupied in 1967 would be a violation of international law and imperil the foundations of the peace process," the ministers said in a statement after a joint video conference. The government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had set July 1 as the date when it could begin to annex Jewish settlements in the West Bank as well as the strategic Jordan Valley. The move was endorsed by a Middle East plan unveiled by US President Donald Trump in January. Netanyahu's office made no announcement on July 1 as expected, but said talks were continuing with US officials and Israeli security chiefs. The EU has in recent weeks mounted a diplomatic campaign against annexation, highlighted by a visit to Jerusalem by German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas to raise a concern about the prospective plans. But the bloc cannot threaten Israel with formal sanctions without unanimous support among members. After occupying the West Bank in the 1967 Six-Day War, Israel began establishing a network of settlements the following decade. Construction continues to this day.

European ministers seeking options to halt West Bank annexation

Chinese aggression was discussed at the 15th India EU (virtual) summit with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi briefing the European leaders about the situation at the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Responding to a WION's question, Charles Michel, president, European Council, said, "yes we discussed this topic. PM Modi informed us about the latest development regarding this incident with China and we support all the efforts to maintain a channel of dialogue and find peace full solution"

The Ministry of External Affairs in a post-summit press conference also confirmed that the issue was discussed.&nbsp;

Vikas Swarup, Secretary west, MEA &nbsp;said," PM shared our views on India-China relations in general and the current situation at the border areas."

Increased Chinese aggressiveness has been a cause of worry for many of its neighbours including India, Japan.&nbsp;

Violent clashes broke out last month between Indian and Chinese forces at the LAC &nbsp;in Eastern Ladakh in which 20 Indian soldiers died. The face-off took place after Chinese build-up in the area which hindered Indian patroling pattern.

Chinese aggression was discussed at the 15th India EU (virtual) summit with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi briefing the European leaders about the situation at the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Chinese aggression was discussed at the 15th India EU (virtual) summit with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi briefing the European leaders about the situation at the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Responding to a WION's question, Charles Michel, president, European Council, said, "yes we discussed this topic. PM Modi informed us about the latest development regarding this incident with China and we support all the efforts to maintain a channel of dialogue and find peace full solution" The Ministry of External Affairs in a post-summit press conference also confirmed that the issue was discussed. Vikas Swarup, Secretary west, MEA said," PM shared our views on India-China relations in general and the current situation at the border areas." Increased Chinese aggressiveness has been a cause of worry for many of its neighbours including India, Japan. Violent clashes broke out last month between Indian and Chinese forces at the LAC in Eastern Ladakh in which 20 Indian soldiers died. The face-off took place after Chinese build-up in the area which hindered Indian patroling pattern.

Chinese aggression discussed at India-EU Summit: European Council president

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