Apple's clash with EU competition regulators comes to a head on Wednesday as Europe's second-highest court rules on whether it has to pay 13 billion euros ($15 billion) in Irish back taxes, a key part of the EU's crackdown against sweetheart tax deals.

In its order four years ago, the European Commission said Apple benefited from illegal state aid via two Irish tax rulings that artificially reduced its tax burden for over two decades - to as low as 0.005% in 2014.

Defeat for European Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager could weaken or delay pending cases against Ikea's and Nike's deals with the Netherlands, as well as Huhtamaki's agreement with Luxembourg.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/apple-reportedly-paid-almost-1-billion-to-samsung-for-faltering-on-order-for-screens-313197" hreflang="en">Apple reportedly paid almost $1 billion to Samsung for faltering on order for screens</a>

Vestager, who has made the tax crackdown a centrepiece of her time in office, saw the same court last year overturn her demand for Starbucks to pay up to 30 million euros in Dutch back taxes. In another case, the court also threw out her ruling against a Belgian tax scheme for 39 multinationals.&nbsp;

The Apple dispute is seen by some analysts as a lose-lose situation for Ireland, which has appealed against the Commission's order alongside the iPhone maker.&nbsp;

While 14 billion euros - including interest - would go a long way to plugging the coronavirus-shaped hole in the state's finances, Dublin is seeking to protect a low tax regime that has attracted 250,000 multinational employers.

If Ireland's appeal succeeds, the government will be ridiculed by opposition parties for not taking the cash, which could cover at least half of a budget deficit forecast to balloon to as much as 10% of GDP this year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/apple-supplier-foxconn-to-invest-1-billion-in-india-sources-312563" hreflang="en">Apple supplier Foxconn to invest $1 billion in India: Sources</a>

Should Ireland lose, the government will be castigated by the same politicians for launching the appeal. A ruling in favour of the Commission could also raise questions about the application of Ireland's tax code at a sensitive time, when new global rules for taxing digital giants are being debated.

Defeat could also hurt Ireland's ability to attract investment, although the promotional blitz undertaken after the Commission's 2016 decision appears to have worked. The numbers employed by multinationals like Apple, Facebook and Google have grown by 25%, accounting for one in ten Irish workers.

For Apple, defeat would be a blow, but manageable given its cash holdings topped $190 billion at the end of its fiscal second quarter.&nbsp;

The cases are T-778/16 Ireland v Commission and T-892/16 Apple Sales International and Apple Operations Europe v Commission. The defeated side can appeal on points of law to the EU Court of Justice, Europe's highest court.

Apple's clash with EU competition regulators comes to a head on Wednesday as Europe's second-highest court rules on whether it has to pay 13 billion euros ($15 billion) in Irish back taxes, a key part of the EU's crackdown against sweetheart tax deals.

Apple's clash with EU competition regulators comes to a head on Wednesday as Europe's second-highest court rules on whether it has to pay 13 billion euros ($15 billion) in Irish back taxes, a key part of the EU's crackdown against sweetheart tax deals. In its order four years ago, the European Commission said Apple benefited from illegal state aid via two Irish tax rulings that artificially reduced its tax burden for over two decades - to as low as 0.005% in 2014. Defeat for European Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager could weaken or delay pending cases against Ikea's and Nike's deals with the Netherlands, as well as Huhtamaki's agreement with Luxembourg. Also read: Apple reportedly paid almost $1 billion to Samsung for faltering on order for screens Vestager, who has made the tax crackdown a centrepiece of her time in office, saw the same court last year overturn her demand for Starbucks to pay up to 30 million euros in Dutch back taxes. In another case, the court also threw out her ruling against a Belgian tax scheme for 39 multinationals. The Apple dispute is seen by some analysts as a lose-lose situation for Ireland, which has appealed against the Commission's order alongside the iPhone maker. While 14 billion euros - including interest - would go a long way to plugging the coronavirus-shaped hole in the state's finances, Dublin is seeking to protect a low tax regime that has attracted 250,000 multinational employers. If Ireland's appeal succeeds, the government will be ridiculed by opposition parties for not taking the cash, which could cover at least half of a budget deficit forecast to balloon to as much as 10% of GDP this year. Also read: Apple supplier Foxconn to invest $1 billion in India: Sources Should Ireland lose, the government will be castigated by the same politicians for launching the appeal. A ruling in favour of the Commission could also raise questions about the application of Ireland's tax code at a sensitive time, when new global rules for taxing digital giants are being debated. Defeat could also hurt Ireland's ability to attract investment, although the promotional blitz undertaken after the Commission's 2016 decision appears to have worked. The numbers employed by multinationals like Apple, Facebook and Google have grown by 25%, accounting for one in ten Irish workers. For Apple, defeat would be a blow, but manageable given its cash holdings topped $190 billion at the end of its fiscal second quarter. The cases are T-778/16 Ireland v Commission and T-892/16 Apple Sales International and Apple Operations Europe v Commission. The defeated side can appeal on points of law to the EU Court of Justice, Europe's highest court.

Crunch time for Apple in fight against $15 billion EU tax order

Europe's second-highest court on Wednesday rejected an EU order for&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;to pay 13 billion euros ($15 billion) in Irish back taxes, dealing a blow to the bloc's attempts to crack down on sweetheart tax deals.

In its order four years ago, the European Commission said&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;benefited from illegal state aid via two Irish tax rulings that artificially reduced its tax burden for over two decades - to as low as 0.005% in 2014.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/apple-to-give-25-compensation-to-eligible-users-for-deliberately-slowing-down-older-iphones-313401" hreflang="en">Apple to give $25 compensation to eligible users for deliberately slowing down older iPhones</a>

"The General Court annuls the contested decision because the Commission did not succeed in showing to the requisite legal standard that there was an advantage for the purposes of Article 107(1) TFEU1," judges said, referring to EU competition rules.&nbsp;

The defeat for European Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager could weaken or delay pending cases against Ikea's and Nike's deals with the Netherlands, as well as Huhtamaki's agreement with Luxembourg.

Vestager, who has made the tax crackdown a centrepiece of her time in office, saw the same court last year overturn her demand for Starbucks to pay up to 30 million euros in Dutch back taxes. In another case, the court also threw out her ruling against a Belgian tax scheme for 39 multinationals.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/over-2500-games-removed-from-apples-china-app-store-after-loophole-shuts-313379" hreflang="en">Over 2,500 games removed from Apple's China App Store after loophole shuts</a>

While 14 billion euros - including interest - would have gone a long way to plugging the coronavirus-shaped hole in Ireland's finances, Dublin appealed against the Commission's order alongside&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;because it wanted to protect a low tax regime that has attracted 250,000 multinational employers.

However, the government is likely to face strong criticism from opposition parties for not taking the cash, which could cover at least half of a budget deficit forecast to balloon to as much as 10% of GDP this year.

&nbsp;The defeated side can appeal on points of law to the EU Court of Justice, Europe's highest court.

Europe's second-highest court on Wednesday rejected an EU order for Apple to pay 13 billion euros ($15 billion) in Irish back taxes, dealing a blow to the bloc's attempts to crack down on sweetheart tax deals.

Europe's second-highest court on Wednesday rejected an EU order for Apple to pay 13 billion euros ($15 billion) in Irish back taxes, dealing a blow to the bloc's attempts to crack down on sweetheart tax deals. In its order four years ago, the European Commission said Apple benefited from illegal state aid via two Irish tax rulings that artificially reduced its tax burden for over two decades - to as low as 0.005% in 2014. Also read: Apple to give $25 compensation to eligible users for deliberately slowing down older iPhones "The General Court annuls the contested decision because the Commission did not succeed in showing to the requisite legal standard that there was an advantage for the purposes of Article 107(1) TFEU1," judges said, referring to EU competition rules. The defeat for European Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager could weaken or delay pending cases against Ikea's and Nike's deals with the Netherlands, as well as Huhtamaki's agreement with Luxembourg. Vestager, who has made the tax crackdown a centrepiece of her time in office, saw the same court last year overturn her demand for Starbucks to pay up to 30 million euros in Dutch back taxes. In another case, the court also threw out her ruling against a Belgian tax scheme for 39 multinationals. Also read: Over 2,500 games removed from Apple's China App Store after loophole shuts While 14 billion euros - including interest - would have gone a long way to plugging the coronavirus-shaped hole in Ireland's finances, Dublin appealed against the Commission's order alongside Apple because it wanted to protect a low tax regime that has attracted 250,000 multinational employers. However, the government is likely to face strong criticism from opposition parties for not taking the cash, which could cover at least half of a budget deficit forecast to balloon to as much as 10% of GDP this year. The defeated side can appeal on points of law to the EU Court of Justice, Europe's highest court.

Apple, Ireland win fight against $15 billion EU tax order

The European Union said it is in contact with India on the Afghan peace process and hopes "actual peace negotiations will start anytime soon."

Ahead of the India EU summit, EU officials said, it is "in contact with India as with other key partners to make this happen in a constructive way and it includes Pakistan which has to continue to make this successful."

The officials explained we are "close to the launch of Intra-Afghan negotiations" following the Doha agreement between US and Taliban and agreement between US and Afghan government and "EU is fully supportive of peace efforts".

On 29th May, EU has adopted a "concrete steps of specific demands" that calls for the Taliban to build "trust and confidence allowing the prompt start of intra-Afghan negotiations".

On the issue of terrorism, the EU official said, "no doubt on EU's stance on terrorism being victims of terrorism".

Indian, EU leaders are expected to reaffirm a strong stance against terrorism at the summit. Europol and CBI are negotiating a "working arrangement" to combat and prevent terrorism and organised crime. 
&nbsp;

The European Union said it is in contact with India on the Afghan peace process and hopes "actual peace negotiations will start anytime soon." Ahead of the India EU summit, EU officials said, it is "in contact with India as with other key partners to make this happen in a constructive way and it includes Pakistan which has to continue to make this successful.

The European Union said it is in contact with India on the Afghan peace process and hopes "actual peace negotiations will start anytime soon." Ahead of the India EU summit, EU officials said, it is "in contact with India as with other key partners to make this happen in a constructive way and it includes Pakistan which has to continue to make this successful." The officials explained we are "close to the launch of Intra-Afghan negotiations" following the Doha agreement between US and Taliban and agreement between US and Afghan government and "EU is fully supportive of peace efforts". On 29th May, EU has adopted a "concrete steps of specific demands" that calls for the Taliban to build "trust and confidence allowing the prompt start of intra-Afghan negotiations". On the issue of terrorism, the EU official said, "no doubt on EU's stance on terrorism being victims of terrorism". Indian, EU leaders are expected to reaffirm a strong stance against terrorism at the summit. Europol and CBI are negotiating a "working arrangement" to combat and prevent terrorism and organised crime.

European Union in contact with India on Afghan peace process: Officials

The European Union has been briefed by both New Delhi and Beijing on the recent India China border clashes, with Brussels welcoming the recent de-escalation measures between the two countries.

An EU official, ahead of the India-EU summit said, "We have certainly received detailed information on how the two government see clashes at the border. But what is most important is they are talking to each other--at diplomatic, military and even the political level" 
&nbsp; 
Welcoming the de-escalation, EU officials said, "Pleased to see since the deadly clashes took place at LAC" &amp; "both sides having committed to show restraint and engage in military de-escalation and engage in dialogue"

China, India have started de-escalation at LAC with areas such as Galwan, Hot springs &amp; Gogra area witnessing complete de-escalation.

"We trust both Indian and Chinese authorities and look to continue the dialogue in order to find a peaceful solution to the differences and it is particularly important when 2 of the world's powerful and influential players like India and China...have this immediate de escalation.." and "it is crucial for global stability and EU supports good neighbourly relations between both," he noted.

EU has also expressed "Interest in a number of concrete economic steps" taken by India after 15th June clashes, said another EU official when asked about India China border row.

China will be one of the key topics of discussion at the 15th India EU virtual summit that will take place on Wednesday at 4.30 PM IST. EU will be represented by Charles Michel, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission and India will be represented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell will also join.

The European Union has been briefed by both New Delhi and Beijing on the recent India China border clashes, with Brussels welcoming the recent de-escalation measures between the two countries.

The European Union has been briefed by both New Delhi and Beijing on the recent India China border clashes, with Brussels welcoming the recent de-escalation measures between the two countries. An EU official, ahead of the India-EU summit said, "We have certainly received detailed information on how the two government see clashes at the border. But what is most important is they are talking to each other--at diplomatic, military and even the political level" Welcoming the de-escalation, EU officials said, "Pleased to see since the deadly clashes took place at LAC" & "both sides having committed to show restraint and engage in military de-escalation and engage in dialogue" China, India have started de-escalation at LAC with areas such as Galwan, Hot springs & Gogra area witnessing complete de-escalation. "We trust both Indian and Chinese authorities and look to continue the dialogue in order to find a peaceful solution to the differences and it is particularly important when 2 of the world's powerful and influential players like India and China...have this immediate de escalation.." and "it is crucial for global stability and EU supports good neighbourly relations between both," he noted. EU has also expressed "Interest in a number of concrete economic steps" taken by India after 15th June clashes, said another EU official when asked about India China border row. China will be one of the key topics of discussion at the 15th India EU virtual summit that will take place on Wednesday at 4.30 PM IST. EU will be represented by Charles Michel, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission and India will be represented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell will also join.

European Union briefed by India, China on border face-off

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

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

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

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

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

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

Incumbent Andrzej Duda was marginally ahead in Poland`s presidential election on Sunday, an exit poll found, in a result seen as likely to have profound implications for Warsaw`s relations with the rest of the European Union.

The re-election of Duda, an ally of the ruling nationalists Law and Justice (PiS), is crucial if the government is to implement in full its conservative agenda, including judicial reforms that the European Union says are undemocratic.

Duda`s challenger, liberal Warsaw Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski, has pledged to repair Poland`s relations with Europe and use the presidential veto power to hold back any legislation that would subvert the rule of law.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-holds-momentous-tight-presidential-election-runoff-312727">Also read:&nbsp;Poland holds momentous, tight presidential election runoff</a>

The exit poll by Ipsos showed Duda winning 50.4% of the vote, while Trzaskowski, the preferred candidate of the main opposition party, the centrist Civic Platform (PO), had 49.6%. Ipsos said it was too early to call a winner.

"All we need is to count the votes. The night will be tense but I am certain that when the votes are counted, we will win," Trzaskowski told supporters in a park just outside Warsaw`s historic Old Town.

Partial official results are expected on Monday.

Opinion polls before the election had shown the candidates, both 48, neck and neck, with Trzaskowski having closed the gap on Duda, who initially looked like a clear favourite.

Backed by the government, Duda ran an acrimonious campaign, laced with homophobic language, attacks on independent media and accusations levied against Trzaskowski that he would serve foreign interests instead of Poland`s.

Duda, a devout believer, had painted himself as a defender of Catholic values and of the government`s generous social benefit programmes that have transformed life for many, especially in the poorer rural regions of the country.

He appeared conciliatory on Sunday. "If anyone was offended by anything I did or said in the last five years, not just during the campaign, please accept my apology," he told supporters in Pultusk, a small town north of the capital.

Duda has also championed large infrastructure projects, which he says will create jobs and boost the country`s autonomy and international standing.

Lethal Danger 
For many religious conservatives in Poland, Trzaskowski came to represent the threats facing traditional values when he pledged to introduce education about LGBT rights in the city`s schools.

The archbishop of Krakow, Marek Jedraszewski, told worshippers in the southern city of Czestochowa on Saturday that Poland faced a "lethal danger" from ideologies that seek to undermine the traditional family structure and corrupt children.

Trzaskowski says he seeks a more tolerant Poland and has criticised PiS` rhetoric, vowing to abolish state news channel TVP Info, which critics say gave overt support to Duda in its programming.

"In politics, you should have opponents, not enemies," Trzaskowski said on Sunday. "They thought they had full power, but today they have fear in their eyes."

Duda` re-election to a second five-year term would open up the prospect of three years of uninterrupted rule by PiS, which controls the lower house of parliament, with the next national election scheduled for 2023.

Observers say his defeat could undermine the fragile parliamentary majority that supports the PiS government, raising the spectre of political instability as Poland is coping with the economic fallout from the coronavirus pandemic.

The election is being closely watched in Brussels.

Before PiS and Duda came to power in 2015, Poland had one of the most pro-European administrations in the bloc`s ex-communist east. But it has grown increasingly isolated, with divisions focusing on climate change and migration, in addition to democratic norms.

Incumbent Andrzej Duda was marginally ahead in Poland`s presidential election on Sunday, an exit poll found, in a result seen as likely to have profound implications for Warsaw`s relations with the rest of the European Union.

Incumbent Andrzej Duda was marginally ahead in Poland`s presidential election on Sunday, an exit poll found, in a result seen as likely to have profound implications for Warsaw`s relations with the rest of the European Union. The re-election of Duda, an ally of the ruling nationalists Law and Justice (PiS), is crucial if the government is to implement in full its conservative agenda, including judicial reforms that the European Union says are undemocratic. Duda`s challenger, liberal Warsaw Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski, has pledged to repair Poland`s relations with Europe and use the presidential veto power to hold back any legislation that would subvert the rule of law. Also read: Poland holds momentous, tight presidential election runoff The exit poll by Ipsos showed Duda winning 50.4% of the vote, while Trzaskowski, the preferred candidate of the main opposition party, the centrist Civic Platform (PO), had 49.6%. Ipsos said it was too early to call a winner. "All we need is to count the votes. The night will be tense but I am certain that when the votes are counted, we will win," Trzaskowski told supporters in a park just outside Warsaw`s historic Old Town. Partial official results are expected on Monday. Opinion polls before the election had shown the candidates, both 48, neck and neck, with Trzaskowski having closed the gap on Duda, who initially looked like a clear favourite. Backed by the government, Duda ran an acrimonious campaign, laced with homophobic language, attacks on independent media and accusations levied against Trzaskowski that he would serve foreign interests instead of Poland`s. Duda, a devout believer, had painted himself as a defender of Catholic values and of the government`s generous social benefit programmes that have transformed life for many, especially in the poorer rural regions of the country. He appeared conciliatory on Sunday. "If anyone was offended by anything I did or said in the last five years, not just during the campaign, please accept my apology," he told supporters in Pultusk, a small town north of the capital. Duda has also championed large infrastructure projects, which he says will create jobs and boost the country`s autonomy and international standing. Lethal Danger For many religious conservatives in Poland, Trzaskowski came to represent the threats facing traditional values when he pledged to introduce education about LGBT rights in the city`s schools. The archbishop of Krakow, Marek Jedraszewski, told worshippers in the southern city of Czestochowa on Saturday that Poland faced a "lethal danger" from ideologies that seek to undermine the traditional family structure and corrupt children. Trzaskowski says he seeks a more tolerant Poland and has criticised PiS` rhetoric, vowing to abolish state news channel TVP Info, which critics say gave overt support to Duda in its programming. "In politics, you should have opponents, not enemies," Trzaskowski said on Sunday. "They thought they had full power, but today they have fear in their eyes." Duda` re-election to a second five-year term would open up the prospect of three years of uninterrupted rule by PiS, which controls the lower house of parliament, with the next national election scheduled for 2023. Observers say his defeat could undermine the fragile parliamentary majority that supports the PiS government, raising the spectre of political instability as Poland is coping with the economic fallout from the coronavirus pandemic. The election is being closely watched in Brussels. Before PiS and Duda came to power in 2015, Poland had one of the most pro-European administrations in the bloc`s ex-communist east. But it has grown increasingly isolated, with divisions focusing on climate change and migration, in addition to democratic norms.

Polish presidential election too close to call, incumbent marginally ahead

India has started trade talks with the European Union (EU) and is open to dialogue with the United Kingdom for a free trade agreement, Reuters reported quoting the trade minister on Saturday.

India has started trade talks with the European Union (EU) and is open to dialogue with the United Kingdom for a free trade agreement, Reuters reported quoting the trade minister on Saturday. Piyush Goyal said that Asia's third-largest economy is open to engage with the UK for a preferential trade agreement with the ultimate goal of a free trade agreement between the countries. He said that he is also in dialogue with the European Union's trade commissioner for a deal that could start with a preferential trade agreement. The ultimate goal here too would be to have a free trade agreement, he noted. India currently has no trade deal with the EU. Trade talks between the two regions stalled in 2013.

India in talks with EU for trade deal, open to pact with UK: Piyush Goyal

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

EU consumers can sue Volkswagen in national courts

The EU on Wednesday urged China to free hundreds of lawyers and rights activists, on the fifth anniversary of a major crackdown. 
 
As relations with Beijing become increasingly complex, Brussels pledged to highlight the "deteriorating situation of civil and political rights in China" including the case of a professor detained after criticising President Xi Jinping over the coronavirus pandemic. 
 
In a statement marking five years since the "709 crackdown" -- so named because it began on July 9, 2015 -- the EU said it expected China to investigate cases of arbitrary detention and mistreatment of prisoners.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/south-asia/european-union-bans-pakistan-international-airlines-from-flying-to-europe-for-six-months-309757" hreflang="en">European Union bans Pakistan International Airlines from flying to Europe for six months</a> 
 
"The European Union also expects the Chinese authorities to immediately and unconditionally release, without any restrictions on their movement or work, all lawyers and legal activists imprisoned or persecuted by the authorities for their work before and since the '709 crackdown', such as Yu Wensheng, Li Yuhan and Ge Jueping," the statement said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/european-union-to-allow-visitors-from-14-countries-citizens-from-us-china-brazil-barred-report-309535" hreflang="en">European Union to allow visitors from 14 countries; citizens from US, China, Brazil barred: Report</a> 
 
The United States on Tuesday called for the release of Xu Zhangrun, a law professor at Tsinghua University, one of China's top institutions, and one of the rare prominent figures to offer open critiques of Xi, who has clamped down hard on dissent. 
 
Last week the EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell warned that existing rights must be protected in Hong Kong after police made the first arrests there under China's new national security law.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The EU on Wednesday urged China to free hundreds of lawyers and rights activists, on the fifth anniversary of a major crackdown. As relations with Beijing become increasingly complex, Brussels pledged to highlight the "deteriorating situation of civil and political rights in China" including the case of a professor detained after criticising President Xi Jinping over the coronavirus pandemic.

The EU on Wednesday urged China to free hundreds of lawyers and rights activists, on the fifth anniversary of a major crackdown. As relations with Beijing become increasingly complex, Brussels pledged to highlight the "deteriorating situation of civil and political rights in China" including the case of a professor detained after criticising President Xi Jinping over the coronavirus pandemic. In a statement marking five years since the "709 crackdown" -- so named because it began on July 9, 2015 -- the EU said it expected China to investigate cases of arbitrary detention and mistreatment of prisoners. Also read: European Union bans Pakistan International Airlines from flying to Europe for six months "The European Union also expects the Chinese authorities to immediately and unconditionally release, without any restrictions on their movement or work, all lawyers and legal activists imprisoned or persecuted by the authorities for their work before and since the '709 crackdown', such as Yu Wensheng, Li Yuhan and Ge Jueping," the statement said. Also read: European Union to allow visitors from 14 countries; citizens from US, China, Brazil barred: Report The United States on Tuesday called for the release of Xu Zhangrun, a law professor at Tsinghua University, one of China's top institutions, and one of the rare prominent figures to offer open critiques of Xi, who has clamped down hard on dissent. Last week the EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell warned that existing rights must be protected in Hong Kong after police made the first arrests there under China's new national security law.

EU urges China to free activists on crackdown anniversary

The European Union Air Safety Agency (EASA) on Tuesday said that it has suspended the authorisation for the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) to operate in Europe for six months, while the UK Civil Aviation Agency has suspended PIA flight operations from three airports — Birmingham, London Heathrow and Manchester.

According to the statement issued by PIA, the airline is in "touch with EASA to allay their concerns and hopes that the suspension will be revoked with our CBMs soon".

The national flag carrier of Pakistan issued a statement on micro-blogging site Twitter and said that "EASA has suspended PIA's permission to operate to EU member states for 6 months w.e.f July 1, 2020: 0000Hrs UTC. PIA is in touch with EASA to allay their concerns and hopes that the suspension will be revoked with our CBMs soon."

The move is a big blow to the airline, already under scrutiny the world over due to recently uncovered pitfalls within Pakistan’s aviation industry, such as pilots possessing "dubious" credentials -- or "fake" licences as put by Aviation Minister Ghulam Sarwar Khan.

The minister on Friday had announced that the credentials of 262 pilots are "dubious" and thus they will be barred from flying. The pilots in the line of fire include 141 from PIA, nine from Air Blue and 10 from Serene Airline.

The rest of the 262 belong to flying clubs or chartered plane services, he said. He said all the airlines and the clubs had been conveyed that: "Their credentials are dubious, and they shouldn`t be allowed to fly. &nbsp;"Last week, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) had expressed concern over the "serious lapse in-licensing and safety oversight by the aviation regulator".

(With inputs from ANI)

The European Union Air Safety Agency (EASA) on Tuesday said that it has suspended the authorisation for the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) to operate in Europe for six months, while the UK Civil Aviation Agency has suspended PIA flight operations from three airports — Birmingham, London Heathrow and Manchester.

The European Union Air Safety Agency (EASA) on Tuesday said that it has suspended the authorisation for the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) to operate in Europe for six months, while the UK Civil Aviation Agency has suspended PIA flight operations from three airports — Birmingham, London Heathrow and Manchester. According to the statement issued by PIA, the airline is in "touch with EASA to allay their concerns and hopes that the suspension will be revoked with our CBMs soon". The national flag carrier of Pakistan issued a statement on micro-blogging site Twitter and said that "EASA has suspended PIA's permission to operate to EU member states for 6 months w.e.f July 1, 2020: 0000Hrs UTC. PIA is in touch with EASA to allay their concerns and hopes that the suspension will be revoked with our CBMs soon." The move is a big blow to the airline, already under scrutiny the world over due to recently uncovered pitfalls within Pakistan’s aviation industry, such as pilots possessing "dubious" credentials -- or "fake" licences as put by Aviation Minister Ghulam Sarwar Khan. The minister on Friday had announced that the credentials of 262 pilots are "dubious" and thus they will be barred from flying. The pilots in the line of fire include 141 from PIA, nine from Air Blue and 10 from Serene Airline. The rest of the 262 belong to flying clubs or chartered plane services, he said. He said all the airlines and the clubs had been conveyed that: "Their credentials are dubious, and they shouldn`t be allowed to fly. "Last week, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) had expressed concern over the "serious lapse in-licensing and safety oversight by the aviation regulator". (With inputs from ANI)

European Union bans Pakistan International Airlines from flying to Europe for six months

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

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

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

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

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

EU members displeased over uneven distribution of coronavirus recovery funds

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

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

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

European Union to speed up space ambitions

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

Lawmakers in Europe call on Israel to ditch annexation plans

China repudiated a warning from the European Union over a new Hong Kong national security law on Tuesday, with the foreign ministry saying that the matter was a "domestic affair".

China repudiated a warning from the European Union over a new Hong Kong national security law on Tuesday, with the foreign ministry saying that the matter was a "domestic affair". "We oppose any foreign interference in this matter," said Wang Lutong, director-general of European Affairs at China's foreign ministry, adding that China had made its position clear in an EU video summit Monday between President Xi Jinping and top EU officials. Also read: Hong Kong lawyers alarmed at plans for judges in national security trials The European Union on Monday warned China of "very negative consequences" if Beijing goes ahead with a new security law on Hong Kong that the West says will curtail basic rights. Speaking after video calls with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and President Xi Jinping, the EU's chief executive and chairman said the new legislation was a matter of 'grave concern' and could jeopardise the territory's semi-autonomous status and role as a global financial hub. Also read: US treatment of Hong Kong depends on how Beijing treats it, says Pompeo European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the law did not conform with the Hong Kong Basic Law, in reference to the mini-constitution that was agreed between Britain and China ahead of the 1997 handover. The comments came after China's parliament reacted angrily on Saturday to a resolution by the EU assembly protesting against the security law. (With inputs from agencies)

China slams European Union criticism over Hong Kong law

The Chinese leadership and senior EU officials kicked off a video summit on Monday amid tensions over bloc slamming Beijing's authoritarian measures and imposing tariffs on Chinese firms.&nbsp;

The summit began at 0800 GMT European Council President Charles Michel and European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen meeting Chinese Premier Li Keqiang. President Xi Jinping is also expected to join the summit sometime later.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-names-and-shames-china-russia-for-spreading-disinformation-campaigns-304973">EU 'names and shames' China, Russia for spreading 'disinformation campaigns'</a>

China and the EU both say they want to boost ties, but the relationship has worsened due to a range of issues, from trade and investment to human rights and concerns regarding national security.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drag-china-to-un-court-over-hong-kong-security-law-eu-parliament-307287">Drag China to UN court over Hong Kong security law: EU Parliament</a>

The EU on Friday demanded the immediate release of a top Chinese human rights lawyer, who was sentenced for "inciting subversion of state power" after criticisng Xi and Chinese administration and asking for constitutional reforms.

The bloc has also slammed Beijing's measures to push its assertiveness in Hong Kong and Tibet, including Beijing's new security law.&nbsp;

However, EU's stand against China has caused many disagreements amongst its member nations, with many calling not severing relations with Beijing.&nbsp;

The European Commission, the bloc's executive arm, has declared plans for new legislation intended to ensure foreign firms backed by heavy state subsidies do not distort competition in Europe.

There is a rising concern in Europe that coronavirus-triggered recession could lead to Chinese companies buying European organisations in large numbers.&nbsp;

(With inputs from AFP) 
&nbsp;

The Chinese leadership and senior EU officials kicked off a video summit on Monday amid tensions over bloc slamming Beijing's authoritarian measures and imposing tariffs on Chinese firms.

The Chinese leadership and senior EU officials kicked off a video summit on Monday amid tensions over bloc slamming Beijing's authoritarian measures and imposing tariffs on Chinese firms. The summit began at 0800 GMT European Council President Charles Michel and European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen meeting Chinese Premier Li Keqiang. President Xi Jinping is also expected to join the summit sometime later. Also read | EU 'names and shames' China, Russia for spreading 'disinformation campaigns' China and the EU both say they want to boost ties, but the relationship has worsened due to a range of issues, from trade and investment to human rights and concerns regarding national security. Also read | Drag China to UN court over Hong Kong security law: EU Parliament The EU on Friday demanded the immediate release of a top Chinese human rights lawyer, who was sentenced for "inciting subversion of state power" after criticisng Xi and Chinese administration and asking for constitutional reforms. The bloc has also slammed Beijing's measures to push its assertiveness in Hong Kong and Tibet, including Beijing's new security law. However, EU's stand against China has caused many disagreements amongst its member nations, with many calling not severing relations with Beijing. The European Commission, the bloc's executive arm, has declared plans for new legislation intended to ensure foreign firms backed by heavy state subsidies do not distort competition in Europe. There is a rising concern in Europe that coronavirus-triggered recession could lead to Chinese companies buying European organisations in large numbers. (With inputs from AFP)

Amid strained ties, EU-China kick off virtual summit

Apple on Tuesday found itself the target of two EU antitrust investigations into its App Store and Apple Pay as regulators said its terms and conditions and restrictions may violate the bloc's competition rules.

The European Commission said one probe will look into the mandatory use of Apple's proprietary in-app purchase system and restrictions on developers' ability to inform iPhone and iPad users of other cheaper purchasing possibilities outside of apps.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/business-economy/apple-backed-study-sheds-light-on-physical-sales-through-app-store-306156" hreflang="en">Apple-backed study sheds light on physical sales through App Store</a>

The case was triggered by a complaint from Swedish music streaming service Spotify last year. Another smaller rival also filed a similar grievance related to e-books and audiobooks in March this year.

"It appears that Apple obtained a 'gatekeeper' role when it comes to the distribution of apps and content to users of Apple's popular devices," European Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager said in a statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/science/apple-youtube-unveil-100-million-funds-to-support-racial-justice-amid-protests-305268" hreflang="en">Apple, YouTube unveil $100 million funds to support racial justice amid protests</a>

The second case focuses on Apple's terms and conditions on how Apple Pay should be used in merchants' apps and websites, and also the company's refusal to allow rivals access to the payment system.

Launched in 2014, Apple Pay marked the company's diversification from sales of devices like iPhones and iPads.

Apple on Tuesday found itself the target of two EU antitrust investigations into its App Store and Apple Pay as regulators said its terms and conditions and restrictions may violate the bloc's competition rules.

Apple on Tuesday found itself the target of two EU antitrust investigations into its App Store and Apple Pay as regulators said its terms and conditions and restrictions may violate the bloc's competition rules. The European Commission said one probe will look into the mandatory use of Apple's proprietary in-app purchase system and restrictions on developers' ability to inform iPhone and iPad users of other cheaper purchasing possibilities outside of apps. Also read: Apple-backed study sheds light on physical sales through App Store The case was triggered by a complaint from Swedish music streaming service Spotify last year. Another smaller rival also filed a similar grievance related to e-books and audiobooks in March this year. "It appears that Apple obtained a 'gatekeeper' role when it comes to the distribution of apps and content to users of Apple's popular devices," European Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager said in a statement. Also read: Apple, YouTube unveil $100 million funds to support racial justice amid protests The second case focuses on Apple's terms and conditions on how Apple Pay should be used in merchants' apps and websites, and also the company's refusal to allow rivals access to the payment system. Launched in 2014, Apple Pay marked the company's diversification from sales of devices like iPhones and iPads.

EU antitrust regulators to investigate Apple's App Store, Apple Pay

The members of of the European Union's&nbsp;parliament are&nbsp;mulling to sue China in the highest court of the United Nations for imposing a national security law for Hong Kong, according to the South China Morning Post.

According to the draft document, which is expected to be finished on Friday, ''the European Parliament calls on the EU and its member states to consider filing a case before the International Court of Justice, alleging that China’s decision to impose national security legislation on Hong Kong violates the Sino-British Joint Declaration”'' as well as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

Supported by the leading groups in the parliament, the draft resolution also calls for the European Union to follow Britain’s example and provide a ''lifeboat policy''&nbsp;to those people living in Hong Kong&nbsp;but&nbsp;wish to leave the city.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-names-and-shames-china-russia-for-spreading-disinformation-campaigns-304973">EU 'names and shames' China, Russia for spreading 'disinformation campaigns'</a>

Britain has vowed to offer 3 million Hongkongers a path to British citizenship should Beijing impose the national security law.

Containing a long list of recommended actions, the draft resolution also urges UN human rights officials to appoint a special envoy in charge of the city; the EU to enact ''Magnitsky-style''&nbsp;sanctions to punish ''leaders who conduct this crackdown on Hong Kong and its people''; and the Chinese central government to “desist from blackmailing European businesses” into supporting the national security law.

Even if passed next week, the resolution is not binding on either the EU’s executive branch, the European Commission, or the EU’s member states.

<img alt="The European Parliament, in Brussels, Belgium. The parliament is working on a resolution calling for the European Union to take China to court over its moves on Hong Kong. Photo: AFP" data-v-107701cc="" data-v-22ae94a0="" src="https://cdn.i-scmp.com/sites/default/files/styles/1200x800/public/d8/images/methode/2020/06/12/8f816626-ac2e-11ea-bf1b-7541df8028ff_image_hires_071358.jpg?itok=XEy5zhjj&amp;v=1591917244" />

The European Parliament, in Brussels, Belgium. The parliament is working on a resolution calling for the European Union to take China to court over its moves on Hong Kong. Photo: AFP

Still, it would create political pressure on the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Charles Michel ahead of their annual summit with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang in less than two weeks. The meeting will come as Beijing moves closer to imposing the sweeping law that critics fear will curb the political freedoms now enjoyed by the 7 million Hongkongers.

The parliament’s draft motion ''strongly urges''&nbsp;the EU executive leaders to ''address the issue of the national security law for Hong Kong as a top priority on the agenda of the upcoming EU-China Summit.''

The draft also ''strongly condemns the constant and increasing interference by China in Hong Kong’s internal affairs, as well the recent assertion by China that the Sino-British Joint Declaration of 1984 is a historic document, and hence is no longer valid.''

The strong action by the parliament, the EU’s legislative branch, contrasts with the more measured approach so far taken by the commission.

The commission is trying to reach a trade agreement with China, leading some parliament members to ask if that was behind the commission’s relatively soft-spoken response to Beijing’s action against Hong Kong, compared to Washington and London.

<ul data-v-176fc536="" data-v-83913f50="">
</ul>

The members of of the European Union's parliament are mulling to sue China in the highest court of the United Nations for imposing a national security law for Hong Kong, according to the South China Morning Post.

The members of of the European Union's parliament are mulling to sue China in the highest court of the United Nations for imposing a national security law for Hong Kong, according to the South China Morning Post. According to the draft document, which is expected to be finished on Friday, ''the European Parliament calls on the EU and its member states to consider filing a case before the International Court of Justice, alleging that China’s decision to impose national security legislation on Hong Kong violates the Sino-British Joint Declaration”'' as well as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Supported by the leading groups in the parliament, the draft resolution also calls for the European Union to follow Britain’s example and provide a ''lifeboat policy'' to those people living in Hong Kong but wish to leave the city. Also read: EU 'names and shames' China, Russia for spreading 'disinformation campaigns' Britain has vowed to offer 3 million Hongkongers a path to British citizenship should Beijing impose the national security law. Containing a long list of recommended actions, the draft resolution also urges UN human rights officials to appoint a special envoy in charge of the city; the EU to enact ''Magnitsky-style'' sanctions to punish ''leaders who conduct this crackdown on Hong Kong and its people''; and the Chinese central government to “desist from blackmailing European businesses” into supporting the national security law. Even if passed next week, the resolution is not binding on either the EU’s executive branch, the European Commission, or the EU’s member states. The European Parliament, in Brussels, Belgium. The parliament is working on a resolution calling for the European Union to take China to court over its moves on Hong Kong. Photo: AFP Still, it would create political pressure on the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Charles Michel ahead of their annual summit with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang in less than two weeks. The meeting will come as Beijing moves closer to imposing the sweeping law that critics fear will curb the political freedoms now enjoyed by the 7 million Hongkongers. The parliament’s draft motion ''strongly urges'' the EU executive leaders to ''address the issue of the national security law for Hong Kong as a top priority on the agenda of the upcoming EU-China Summit.'' The draft also ''strongly condemns the constant and increasing interference by China in Hong Kong’s internal affairs, as well the recent assertion by China that the Sino-British Joint Declaration of 1984 is a historic document, and hence is no longer valid.'' The strong action by the parliament, the EU’s legislative branch, contrasts with the more measured approach so far taken by the commission. The commission is trying to reach a trade agreement with China, leading some parliament members to ask if that was behind the commission’s relatively soft-spoken response to Beijing’s action against Hong Kong, compared to Washington and London.

EU parliament considering UN court action against Hong Kong's national security law

The European Union (EU) on Wednesday slammed China, Russia for spreading "disinformation campaigns" across the world.&nbsp;

"Foreign actors and certain third countries, in particular Russia and China, have engaged in targeted influence operations and disinformation campaigns in the EU, its neighborhood, and globally," the European Commission, in a statement, said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-watchdog-sets-up-taskforce-to-examine-tiktoks-practices-warns-on-clearview-ai-software-304915">EU watchdog sets up taskforce to examine TikTok's practices, warns on Clearview AI software</a>

In a policy paper published by the EU, experts said they came across "massive wave" of health care hoaxes, false arguments, online scams, hate speech, and coronavirus conspiracy theories circulating on social media platforms.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-asks-facebook-twitter-google-to-report-monthly-on-fake-news-fight-304840">EU asks Facebook, Twitter, Google to report monthly on fake news fight</a>

It further said that attempts were also made by foreign actors to include themselves in domestic EU issues. &nbsp;

"Such coordination reveals an intention to use false or misleading information to cause harm," the paper said.&nbsp;

"I believe if we have evidence we should not shy away from naming and shaming," Vĕra Jourová, a European commission vice-president, said.&nbsp;

She also said that they also witnessed "a surge in narratives undermining our democracies and in effect our response to the crisis", referring to&nbsp;the claim of secret US biological laboratories made by pro-Russia, Chinese officials, and its state media.&nbsp;

"I strongly believe that a geopolitically strong EU can only materialise if we are assertive,” Jourová further told reporters.&nbsp;

The Commission also called on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Google to do more to target disinformation spreading through their platforms and to remove deceptive and dangerous content.

Despite the strong stance taken by the EU, the bloc's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said on Wednesday that he assured Chinese foreign minister that the group would not begin any kind of Cold War with China.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The European Union (EU) on Wednesday slammed China, Russia for spreading "disinformation campaigns" across the world. "Foreign actors and certain third countries, in particular Russia and China, have engaged in targeted influence operations and disinformation campaigns in the EU, its neighborhood, and globally," the European Commission, in a statement, said.

The European Union (EU) on Wednesday slammed China, Russia for spreading "disinformation campaigns" across the world. "Foreign actors and certain third countries, in particular Russia and China, have engaged in targeted influence operations and disinformation campaigns in the EU, its neighborhood, and globally," the European Commission, in a statement, said. Also read | EU watchdog sets up taskforce to examine TikTok's practices, warns on Clearview AI software In a policy paper published by the EU, experts said they came across "massive wave" of health care hoaxes, false arguments, online scams, hate speech, and coronavirus conspiracy theories circulating on social media platforms. Also read | EU asks Facebook, Twitter, Google to report monthly on fake news fight It further said that attempts were also made by foreign actors to include themselves in domestic EU issues. "Such coordination reveals an intention to use false or misleading information to cause harm," the paper said. "I believe if we have evidence we should not shy away from naming and shaming," Vĕra Jourová, a European commission vice-president, said. She also said that they also witnessed "a surge in narratives undermining our democracies and in effect our response to the crisis", referring to the claim of secret US biological laboratories made by pro-Russia, Chinese officials, and its state media. "I strongly believe that a geopolitically strong EU can only materialise if we are assertive,” Jourová further told reporters. The Commission also called on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Google to do more to target disinformation spreading through their platforms and to remove deceptive and dangerous content. Despite the strong stance taken by the EU, the bloc's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said on Wednesday that he assured Chinese foreign minister that the group would not begin any kind of Cold War with China.

EU 'names and shames' China, Russia for spreading 'disinformation campaigns'

Switzerland will lift coronavirus-imposed restrictions at its borders&nbsp;with&nbsp;all&nbsp;European Union, European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries,&nbsp;Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein&nbsp;and the United Kingdom from June 15.&nbsp;

The decision was reached after a virtual meeting between interior ministers from the Schengen area, with a large number of European countries deciding to follow a similar path, Bern said in a statement.

Swiss authorities had already announced in mid-May plans to reopen the country's borders with its immediate neighbours, except Italy, on that date, and to the rest of the Schengen passport-free area by early July.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-push-forward-to-reopen-internal-borders-298638">European Union push forward to reopen internal borders</a>

But with most European countries appearing to gain significant control over their COVID-19 outbreaks, Bern said in a statement that the "epidemiological situation" made a faster and broader opening possible.

A spokeswoman for the justice ministry confirmed that Italy, the country in Europe that has been hardest-hit by the pandemic was included in the decision.

Switzerland’s&nbsp;southern&nbsp;neighbour&nbsp;Italy lifted its border controls with Switzerland on June 3, but the Swiss government said a similar move on the Swiss side would be premature.

Switzerland will lift coronavirus-imposed restrictions at its borders with all European Union, European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein and the United Kingdom from June 15.

Switzerland will lift coronavirus-imposed restrictions at its borders with all European Union, European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein and the United Kingdom from June 15. The decision was reached after a virtual meeting between interior ministers from the Schengen area, with a large number of European countries deciding to follow a similar path, Bern said in a statement. Swiss authorities had already announced in mid-May plans to reopen the country's borders with its immediate neighbours, except Italy, on that date, and to the rest of the Schengen passport-free area by early July. Also read: European Union push forward to reopen internal borders But with most European countries appearing to gain significant control over their COVID-19 outbreaks, Bern said in a statement that the "epidemiological situation" made a faster and broader opening possible. A spokeswoman for the justice ministry confirmed that Italy, the country in Europe that has been hardest-hit by the pandemic was included in the decision. Switzerland’s southern neighbour Italy lifted its border controls with Switzerland on June 3, but the Swiss government said a similar move on the Swiss side would be premature.

Switzerland to further open borders to European Union from June 15

The EU's chief diplomat on Tuesday warned President Donald Trump he did not have the power to change the format of&nbsp;G7&nbsp;summit, after the US leader said he wanted to invite several other countries, including Russia.

Russia was expelled from the club of the world's leading industrial nations in 2014 after annexing Crimea from Ukraine, but Trump says the current membership is outdated.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-bats-for-g20-after-us-president-trumps-invitation-to-attend-for-g7-302769" hreflang="en">Russia bats for G20 after US President Trump's invitation to attend for G7</a>

Leaders from the Group of Seven: the US, Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan had been scheduled to meet by videoconference this month but Trump said on Saturday that he plans to hold an in-person&nbsp;summit&nbsp;later, possibly in September.

Calling the current lineup of countries "very outdated" the US leader also said he planned to invite other countries, including Russia, to join the meeting.

But EU foreign affairs high representative Josep Borrell said that Russia had not changed course since 2014 and should not be re-admitted.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-bid-to-counter-china-invite-india-russia-to-g7-302693">Trump's bid to counter China: Invite India, Russia to G7</a>

"The prerogative of the&nbsp;G7&nbsp;chair, in this case the United States, is to issue guest invitations, guest invitations reflect the host's priorities," Borrell said.

"But changing membership, changing the format on a permanent basis, is not a prerogative of the&nbsp;G7&nbsp;chair."

Later the Indian government said that Trump had invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the&nbsp;G7&nbsp;summit.

Trump and Modi spoke by phone on Tuesday and the US president "conveyed his desire to expand the ambit of the grouping beyond the existing membership, to include other important countries including India," the Delhi government said in a statement.

Modi commended Trump "for his creative and far-sighted approach, acknowledging the fact that such an expanded forum would be in keeping with the emerging realities of the post-COVID world," the statement added.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau rejected the idea of inviting Russian President Vladimir Putin, citing his "continued disrespect and flaunting of international rules and norms".

The EU's chief diplomat on Tuesday warned President Donald Trump he did not have the power to change the format of G7 summit, after the US leader said he wanted to invite several other countries, including Russia.

The EU's chief diplomat on Tuesday warned President Donald Trump he did not have the power to change the format of G7 summit, after the US leader said he wanted to invite several other countries, including Russia. Russia was expelled from the club of the world's leading industrial nations in 2014 after annexing Crimea from Ukraine, but Trump says the current membership is outdated. Also read: Russia bats for G20 after US President Trump's invitation to attend for G7 Leaders from the Group of Seven: the US, Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan had been scheduled to meet by videoconference this month but Trump said on Saturday that he plans to hold an in-person summit later, possibly in September. Calling the current lineup of countries "very outdated" the US leader also said he planned to invite other countries, including Russia, to join the meeting. But EU foreign affairs high representative Josep Borrell said that Russia had not changed course since 2014 and should not be re-admitted. Also read: Trump's bid to counter China: Invite India, Russia to G7 "The prerogative of the G7 chair, in this case the United States, is to issue guest invitations, guest invitations reflect the host's priorities," Borrell said. "But changing membership, changing the format on a permanent basis, is not a prerogative of the G7 chair." Later the Indian government said that Trump had invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the G7 summit. Trump and Modi spoke by phone on Tuesday and the US president "conveyed his desire to expand the ambit of the grouping beyond the existing membership, to include other important countries including India," the Delhi government said in a statement. Modi commended Trump "for his creative and far-sighted approach, acknowledging the fact that such an expanded forum would be in keeping with the emerging realities of the post-COVID world," the statement added. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau rejected the idea of inviting Russian President Vladimir Putin, citing his "continued disrespect and flaunting of international rules and norms".

Trump does not possess power to change format of G7: EU

The United States has been embroiled in a series of protests after an African American man, George Floyd was killed by a police officer in Minneapolis. A reminder of police brutality against people of colour, the police action prompted a series of protests that have now gone global, with offshoots in cities like London.

The European Union recently expressed “shock” over the incident. Josep Borrell, a top EU diplomat called it an “abuse of power” and expressed disbelief at the police excesses involved in the case.

"Like the people of the United States, we are shocked and appalled by the death of George Floyd ... all societies must remain vigilant against the excessive use of force," Borrell told reporters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unrest-in-washington-a-total-disgrace-mobilizing-heavily-armed-military-to-stop-protests-trump-302497">Trump says he is mobilizing 'heavily armed' military to stop protests</a>

When Floyd was pinned down by an officer called&nbsp;Chauvin, he was heard on the tape saying “I can’t breathe, I can’t breathe, please”. The officer had knelt his knee on Floyd’s neck for over eight minutes, which led to his demise. He soon went into a cardiac arrest and was pronounced dead an hour later.

While referring to the incident, Borrell also referred to Floyd’s death as a “very unhappy” one.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/riots-grip-america-stars-share-powerful-messages-in-support-of-george-floyd-302626/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We condemn racism of any kind ... we trust in the ability of the Americans to come together, to heal as a nation”, he added.

The video of Floyd’s arrest went viral. The 46-year-old man had gone to a store to buy cigarettes when the store incharge accused him of using a counterfeit 20 Dollar bill, after which the police got involved.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/four-police-officers-shot-in-violent-protests-after-trump-vows-to-bring-in-us-military-302581" hreflang="en">Four police officers shot in violent protests after Trump vows to bring in US military</a>

In the video, the police officer is visible clearly pinning his knee on the man’s neck, to which he was pleading against. Later, when he fell unconscious, the bystanders asked the officers to check his pulse, after which he was taken to a hospital.

Borrell also said,&nbsp;"All lives matter, black lives also matter."

Earlier on May 26, Borrell had claimed that the world was witnessing the end of a “US-led system” with rising concerns between the US and China, which many are calling the beginning of a cold war.

The United States is currently reeling from the effects of COVID-19, which has killed more 104,000 people in the country alone - the highest toll for any single nation.

(With inputs from Reuters)

The United States has been embroiled in a series of protests after an African American man, George Floyd was killed by a police officer in Minneapolis. A reminder of police brutality against people of colour, the police action prompted a series of protests that have now gone global, with offshoots in cities like London.

The United States has been embroiled in a series of protests after an African American man, George Floyd was killed by a police officer in Minneapolis. A reminder of police brutality against people of colour, the police action prompted a series of protests that have now gone global, with offshoots in cities like London. The European Union recently expressed “shock” over the incident. Josep Borrell, a top EU diplomat called it an “abuse of power” and expressed disbelief at the police excesses involved in the case. "Like the people of the United States, we are shocked and appalled by the death of George Floyd ... all societies must remain vigilant against the excessive use of force," Borrell told reporters. Also read: Trump says he is mobilizing 'heavily armed' military to stop protests When Floyd was pinned down by an officer called Chauvin, he was heard on the tape saying “I can’t breathe, I can’t breathe, please”. The officer had knelt his knee on Floyd’s neck for over eight minutes, which led to his demise. He soon went into a cardiac arrest and was pronounced dead an hour later. While referring to the incident, Borrell also referred to Floyd’s death as a “very unhappy” one. "We condemn racism of any kind ... we trust in the ability of the Americans to come together, to heal as a nation”, he added. The video of Floyd’s arrest went viral. The 46-year-old man had gone to a store to buy cigarettes when the store incharge accused him of using a counterfeit 20 Dollar bill, after which the police got involved. Also read: Four police officers shot in violent protests after Trump vows to bring in US military In the video, the police officer is visible clearly pinning his knee on the man’s neck, to which he was pleading against. Later, when he fell unconscious, the bystanders asked the officers to check his pulse, after which he was taken to a hospital. Borrell also said, "All lives matter, black lives also matter." Earlier on May 26, Borrell had claimed that the world was witnessing the end of a “US-led system” with rising concerns between the US and China, which many are calling the beginning of a cold war. The United States is currently reeling from the effects of COVID-19, which has killed more 104,000 people in the country alone - the highest toll for any single nation. (With inputs from Reuters)

EU 'shocked and appalled' by George Floyd's murder, calls it 'abuse of power'

Greece will be opening its borders for international tourists from June 15, as the country ended its lockdown in May to regain stability in the crippling economy.

However, the government has decided to conduct coronavirus tests for visitors arriving from high-risk areas of the European Union (EU). The tests will be specifically for the airports which have been categorized as 'high-risk' by the European Union's Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/border-closures-pre-travel-tests-largely-ineffective-against-covid-19-spread-eu-health-agency-301331">Also read:&nbsp;Border closures, pre-travel tests largely ineffective against COVID-19 spread: EU health agency</a>

"If you originate from an airport on the EASA affected area list, then you will be tested upon arrival," the ministry of foreign affairs said in an announcement.

"If the test is negative, then the passenger self-quarantines for 7 days. If the test is positive, the passenger is quarantined under supervision for 14 days,"&nbsp; ministry added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greece-to-resume-international-travel-from-july-01-no-screening-to-be-done-300051">Also read:&nbsp;Greece to resume international travel from July 01; no screening to be done</a>

EASA has issued a list of high-risk airports, including&nbsp;13 in the United Kingdom, all 22 in the US and in the Ile de France region surrounding Paris; the list is regularly updated.

Greece issued a list of 29 'safe' countries, whose visitors will not be compulsorily tested on arrival. However, the government has mentioned that the visitors can be randomly tested for coronavirus during their stay in the country.

The country relied heavily on tourism, and has faced a steep decline in the economy as the tourism halted due to the pandemic.&nbsp;Greece's economy is seen contracting by up to 10% this year.

Greece will be opening its borders for international tourists from June 15, as the country ended its lockdown in May to regain stability in the crippling economy.

Greece will be opening its borders for international tourists from June 15, as the country ended its lockdown in May to regain stability in the crippling economy. However, the government has decided to conduct coronavirus tests for visitors arriving from high-risk areas of the European Union (EU). The tests will be specifically for the airports which have been categorized as 'high-risk' by the European Union's Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Also read: Border closures, pre-travel tests largely ineffective against COVID-19 spread: EU health agency "If you originate from an airport on the EASA affected area list, then you will be tested upon arrival," the ministry of foreign affairs said in an announcement. "If the test is negative, then the passenger self-quarantines for 7 days. If the test is positive, the passenger is quarantined under supervision for 14 days," ministry added. Also read: Greece to resume international travel from July 01; no screening to be done EASA has issued a list of high-risk airports, including 13 in the United Kingdom, all 22 in the US and in the Ile de France region surrounding Paris; the list is regularly updated. Greece issued a list of 29 'safe' countries, whose visitors will not be compulsorily tested on arrival. However, the government has mentioned that the visitors can be randomly tested for coronavirus during their stay in the country. The country relied heavily on tourism, and has faced a steep decline in the economy as the tourism halted due to the pandemic. Greece's economy is seen contracting by up to 10% this year.

Greece will test visitors from high-risk EU airports for COVID-19

The European Union on Saturday urged United States President Donald Trump to reconsider its decision to cut ties with the World Health Organisation (WHO) over its handling of the coronavirus pandemic.

"In the face of this global threat, now is the time for enhanced cooperation and common solutions. Actions that weaken international results must be avoided," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the EU's top diplomat, Josep Borrell, said in a statement.

"In this context, we urge the US to reconsider its announced decision," it said, a day after Trump announced the move, accusing the UN agency of becoming a puppet of China.

The move to quit the Geneva-based body, which the United States formally joined in 1948, comes amid growing tensions between Washington and Beijing over the coronavirus outbreak. The virus first emerged in China's Wuhan city late last year.

Trump said Chinese officials "ignored their reporting obligations" to the WHO about the virus -- which has killed hundreds of thousands of people globally -- and pressured the agency to "mislead the world."

Trump's decision follows a pledge last week by Chinese President Xi Jinping to give $2 billion to the WHO over the next two years to help combat the coronavirus. The amount almost matches the WHO's entire annual programme budget for last year.

Trump last month halted funding for the 194-member organisation, then in a May 18 letter gave the WHO 30 days to commit to reforms.

It was not immediately clear when his decision would come into effect. A 1948 joint resolution of Congress on US membership of the WHO said the country "reserves its right to withdraw from the organisation on a one-year notice."

The United States currently owes the WHO more than $200 million in assessed contributions, according to the WHO website. Washington also gives several hundred million dollars annually in voluntary funding tied to specific WHO programmes such as polio eradication, HIV, hepatitis and tuberculosis.

(with inputs from Reuters)

The European Union on Saturday urged United States President Donald Trump to reconsider its decision to cut ties with the World Health Organisation (WHO) over its handling of the coronavirus pandemic.

The European Union on Saturday urged United States President Donald Trump to reconsider its decision to cut ties with the World Health Organisation (WHO) over its handling of the coronavirus pandemic. "In the face of this global threat, now is the time for enhanced cooperation and common solutions. Actions that weaken international results must be avoided," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the EU's top diplomat, Josep Borrell, said in a statement. "In this context, we urge the US to reconsider its announced decision," it said, a day after Trump announced the move, accusing the UN agency of becoming a puppet of China. The move to quit the Geneva-based body, which the United States formally joined in 1948, comes amid growing tensions between Washington and Beijing over the coronavirus outbreak. The virus first emerged in China's Wuhan city late last year. Trump said Chinese officials "ignored their reporting obligations" to the WHO about the virus -- which has killed hundreds of thousands of people globally -- and pressured the agency to "mislead the world." Trump's decision follows a pledge last week by Chinese President Xi Jinping to give $2 billion to the WHO over the next two years to help combat the coronavirus. The amount almost matches the WHO's entire annual programme budget for last year. Trump last month halted funding for the 194-member organisation, then in a May 18 letter gave the WHO 30 days to commit to reforms. It was not immediately clear when his decision would come into effect. A 1948 joint resolution of Congress on US membership of the WHO said the country "reserves its right to withdraw from the organisation on a one-year notice." The United States currently owes the WHO more than $200 million in assessed contributions, according to the WHO website. Washington also gives several hundred million dollars annually in voluntary funding tied to specific WHO programmes such as polio eradication, HIV, hepatitis and tuberculosis. (with inputs from Reuters)

EU urges Trump to rethink decision to cut ties with WHO

The European Commission will today unveil a plan to help the European Union economy recover from the current slum. The stimulus announced could be a mix of grants, loans exceeding 1 trillion dollars. Watch report.

COVID-19 Pandemic: $1 trillion stimulus to be announced by European Union

The European Commission is set to unveil a plan to borrow on the market and then disburse to EU member states 500 billion euros in grants and 250 billion in loans to help them recover from their coronavirus slump.

The aim is also to protect the European Union's single market of 450 million people from being splintered by divergent economic growth and wealth levels as the 27-nation bloc emerges from its deepest ever recession expected this year.

It is needed because countries such as Italy, Spain, Greece, France and Portugal, burdened with high debt and heavily reliant on tourism, will find it more difficult than more frugal northern nations to restart their economies through borrowing.

European Economy Commissioner Paolo Gentiloni said on Twitter that the total sum proposed for the recovery fund was 750 billion euros.

Four EU officials and diplomats confirmed the split between grants and loans that the EU executive arm is due to announce around 1130 GMT in the European Parliament, and one senior EU diplomat called the plan a "sensible" proposal.

The euro jumped on the report of the 750 billion euro figure to trade at 1.1022 against the dollar, up from 1.0932.

The recovery fund package is in addition to the EU`s long-term budget for 2021-27, which the Commission will propose being set at 1.1 trillion euros, two of the sources said.

The 500 billion euros in grants is in line with the wishes of the EU`s two biggest economies - France and Germany - though some nations would rather see the recovery package comprise only loans.

The package would also provide guarantees that could draw in many times more in private cash by reducing the risk of various investments.

But it is the grants, financed through joint borrowing, that worry the Netherlands, Sweden, Austria and Denmark. The borrowing will have to be repaid, meaning higher national contributions to the EU budget in the future or new taxes assigned to the EU.

The Commission is expected to propose new revenue streams. They are most likely to come from a tax on plastics, some money from the CO2 emissions trading scheme, a digital services tax, national corporate taxes and an import levy on goods produced in countries with lower CO2 emissions standards than the EU.

The Commission floated such ideas two years ago but failed to garner enough support among governments.

It also wants to phase out all rebates that various countries now enjoy on their contributions to the EU budget, to halve the amount of customs duties that governments keep and to have a bigger share of the Value Added Tax paid to the EU.

(with inputs from Reuters)

The European Commission is set to unveil a plan to borrow on the market and then disburse to EU member states 500 billion euros in grants and 250 billion in loans to help them recover from their coronavirus slump.

The European Commission is set to unveil a plan to borrow on the market and then disburse to EU member states 500 billion euros in grants and 250 billion in loans to help them recover from their coronavirus slump. The aim is also to protect the European Union's single market of 450 million people from being splintered by divergent economic growth and wealth levels as the 27-nation bloc emerges from its deepest ever recession expected this year. It is needed because countries such as Italy, Spain, Greece, France and Portugal, burdened with high debt and heavily reliant on tourism, will find it more difficult than more frugal northern nations to restart their economies through borrowing. European Economy Commissioner Paolo Gentiloni said on Twitter that the total sum proposed for the recovery fund was 750 billion euros. Four EU officials and diplomats confirmed the split between grants and loans that the EU executive arm is due to announce around 1130 GMT in the European Parliament, and one senior EU diplomat called the plan a "sensible" proposal. The euro jumped on the report of the 750 billion euro figure to trade at 1.1022 against the dollar, up from 1.0932. The recovery fund package is in addition to the EU`s long-term budget for 2021-27, which the Commission will propose being set at 1.1 trillion euros, two of the sources said. The 500 billion euros in grants is in line with the wishes of the EU`s two biggest economies - France and Germany - though some nations would rather see the recovery package comprise only loans. The package would also provide guarantees that could draw in many times more in private cash by reducing the risk of various investments. But it is the grants, financed through joint borrowing, that worry the Netherlands, Sweden, Austria and Denmark. The borrowing will have to be repaid, meaning higher national contributions to the EU budget in the future or new taxes assigned to the EU. The Commission is expected to propose new revenue streams. They are most likely to come from a tax on plastics, some money from the CO2 emissions trading scheme, a digital services tax, national corporate taxes and an import levy on goods produced in countries with lower CO2 emissions standards than the EU. The Commission floated such ideas two years ago but failed to garner enough support among governments. It also wants to phase out all rebates that various countries now enjoy on their contributions to the EU budget, to halve the amount of customs duties that governments keep and to have a bigger share of the Value Added Tax paid to the EU. (with inputs from Reuters)

EU to unveil massive stimulus plan for post-coronavirus phase

As the coronavirus pandemic has shattered world economies, European countries are working on new ways to counter the economic crisis. Europe's largest economies Germany and France have proposed a $545 billion recovery fund that would offer grants to European Union regions and sectors hit hardest by the coronavirus pandemic.

As the coronavirus pandemic has shattered world economies, European countries are working on new ways to counter the economic crisis. Europe's largest economies Germany and France have proposed a $545 billion recovery fund that would offer grants to European Union regions and sectors hit hardest by the coronavirus pandemic. The fund will boost the efforts to create a co-ordinated European fiscal response to the coronavirus pandemic. The funds would be raised by the European Commission through borrowing on capital markets. The fund would be an additional top-up to the 2021-2027 EU budget. The grants should be paid back over a long time and Germany would shoulder roughly 27% of the funds. But there will be some conditions attached to these grants from the recovery fund. The grants will be based on a clear commitment from member states to follow sound economic policies and an ambitious reform agenda. The European Commission is to present its proposal for a recovery fund linked to the EU's next long-term budget on May 27. But the proposal could face opposition from some of the frugal northern countries of the 27-nation bloc, like the Netherlands, Finland and Austria. The announcement of the proposal pushed up the Euro against other global currencies and brought down Italian bond yields as well.

France, Germany propose $545 billion EU rescue fund

Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg on Monday urged the European Union to take the lead in setting global standards for tech regulation or risk seeing countries follow China as a model.

"A&nbsp;lot of other countries are looking at China's&nbsp;model and thinking it gives their government more control," Zuckerberg said, during a video debate with EU commissioner Thierry Breton.

Under the Beijing model, "you don't have to respect human rights quite as much in how the society gets run," he added.

"I just think that that's really dangerous and I worry about that kind of model spreading to other countries," Zuckerberg said in&nbsp;in the talk, organised by the Centre on Regulation in Europe.

"I think that the best antidote to that is having a clear regulatory framework that comes out of Western democratic countries, and that can become a standard around the world," he argued.

"When Europe sets policies, they often become the standards around the world," he said, citing the EU's GDPR data protection legislation, which has been widely replicated. 
 
Breton, one of the EU's top officials on tech policy, said that Facebook and other big tech companies must also live up to certain values.

If you want to have the right regulation "you have to have a clear set of values and in Europe we have these values," he said, hinting Facebook sometimes fell short, especially on controlling illegal content or paying fair taxes.

"At the end of the day, if we cannot find a way, we will regulate, of course," he warned "It is extremely important that when you are CEO, at the end of the day, you are the only one to be responsible," Breton said.

"It is extremely important that when you are CEO, at the end of the day, you are the only one to be responsible," Breton said. "The mission of a CEO is to listen to everyone and then to take the decision.

"The mission of a CEO is to listen to everyone and then to take the decision. At the end of the day, it will be Mark who will be responsible, nobody else." 
 
The European Commission is ramping up towards a Digital Service Act, a major piece of EU lawmaking intended to curb the powers of US big tech. 
 
The law would include all aspects of the digital world, including cracking down on hate speech, protecting user data and preventing big companies from abusing their dominant market positions. 
 
&nbsp;

Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg on Monday urged the European Union to take the lead in setting global standards for tech regulation or risk seeing countries follow China as a model.

Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg on Monday urged the European Union to take the lead in setting global standards for tech regulation or risk seeing countries follow China as a model. "A lot of other countries are looking at China's model and thinking it gives their government more control," Zuckerberg said, during a video debate with EU commissioner Thierry Breton. Under the Beijing model, "you don't have to respect human rights quite as much in how the society gets run," he added. "I just think that that's really dangerous and I worry about that kind of model spreading to other countries," Zuckerberg said in in the talk, organised by the Centre on Regulation in Europe. "I think that the best antidote to that is having a clear regulatory framework that comes out of Western democratic countries, and that can become a standard around the world," he argued. "When Europe sets policies, they often become the standards around the world," he said, citing the EU's GDPR data protection legislation, which has been widely replicated. Breton, one of the EU's top officials on tech policy, said that Facebook and other big tech companies must also live up to certain values. If you want to have the right regulation "you have to have a clear set of values and in Europe we have these values," he said, hinting Facebook sometimes fell short, especially on controlling illegal content or paying fair taxes. "At the end of the day, if we cannot find a way, we will regulate, of course," he warned "It is extremely important that when you are CEO, at the end of the day, you are the only one to be responsible," Breton said. "It is extremely important that when you are CEO, at the end of the day, you are the only one to be responsible," Breton said. "The mission of a CEO is to listen to everyone and then to take the decision. "The mission of a CEO is to listen to everyone and then to take the decision. At the end of the day, it will be Mark who will be responsible, nobody else." The European Commission is ramping up towards a Digital Service Act, a major piece of EU lawmaking intended to curb the powers of US big tech. The law would include all aspects of the digital world, including cracking down on hate speech, protecting user data and preventing big companies from abusing their dominant market positions.

Zuckerberg urges EU to lead on tech rules and overcome Chinese competition

A new report by European Union claimed that China is trying to 'divide & rule'. Is China driving a wedge through EU Bloc?

EU's new report claims China is trying to 'divide & rule'

Governments all across the globe are banking on tourism for their economic revival which is&nbsp;their top priority at the moment.

Although leading health experts have warned against the re-opening of tourist sites stating that the&nbsp;pandemic is ''far from over,''&nbsp;governments are still willing to take the risk because tourism contributes to approximately 3-4 per cent&nbsp;of the world's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

China,&nbsp;the home of the outbreak, eased its the restrictions imposed in the country and lifted its lockdown after 76 days with only a meagre amount of tourists and fear of a second wave of the fatal virus, only to salvage its plunging economy.

The European Union has pushed for gradual reopening of internal borders, which were shut due to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

It is currently working on lockdown exit strategies. The commission also&nbsp;expressed that it was not too late to salvage the summer season for tourism and has also recommended a phased approach to reopen the borders.

The organisation has taken such a step despite&nbsp;the fact that many of the continent's&nbsp;countries including Italy, Spain, France were among the worst hit by the Wuhan virus.

The major reason behind such a step is that&nbsp;these countries are also among Europe's top tourist destinations.

It is willing to allow unrestricted movement across member states&nbsp;with safety measures such as face masks on airplanes and social distancing&nbsp;also because Europe is the most visited region in the world.

The tourism sector of the&nbsp;bloc,&nbsp;which accounts for about 10 percent its economy, was pushed on the brink of collapse after the pandemic.

Emergency border control measures rendered millions of people jobless. It is partially why the region is also working on individual plans.

While, German Chanellor Angela Merkel&nbsp;declared the elimination of&nbsp;border controls from June 15 across the Schengen region. On the other hand the three Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are creating a ''travel bubble.'' They will reopen borders to each others’ citizens from May&nbsp;15.

India is keen to restart tourism&nbsp; as well.&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister Narendra&nbsp;Modi specifically highlighted the need to revive the country's domestic&nbsp;tourism and&nbsp;announced an economic stimulus of 10 per cent of it&nbsp;GDP because it&nbsp;contributes roughly the same share to India's economy.&nbsp;

Therefore, the governments are&nbsp;keen on kickstarting tourism to get their economies back on track&nbsp;as they have come to the realisation that the world will have to learn to live with the virus. &nbsp;

Governments all across the globe are banking on tourism for their economic revival which is their top priority at the moment. Although leading health experts have warned against the re-opening of tourist sites stating that the pandemic is ''far from over,'' governments are still willing to take the risk because tourism contributes to approximately 3-4 per cent of the world's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Governments all across the globe are banking on tourism for their economic revival which is their top priority at the moment. Although leading health experts have warned against the re-opening of tourist sites stating that the pandemic is ''far from over,'' governments are still willing to take the risk because tourism contributes to approximately 3-4 per cent of the world's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). China, the home of the outbreak, eased its the restrictions imposed in the country and lifted its lockdown after 76 days with only a meagre amount of tourists and fear of a second wave of the fatal virus, only to salvage its plunging economy. The European Union has pushed for gradual reopening of internal borders, which were shut due to the coronavirus pandemic. It is currently working on lockdown exit strategies. The commission also expressed that it was not too late to salvage the summer season for tourism and has also recommended a phased approach to reopen the borders. The organisation has taken such a step despite the fact that many of the continent's countries including Italy, Spain, France were among the worst hit by the Wuhan virus. The major reason behind such a step is that these countries are also among Europe's top tourist destinations. It is willing to allow unrestricted movement across member states with safety measures such as face masks on airplanes and social distancing also because Europe is the most visited region in the world. The tourism sector of the bloc, which accounts for about 10 percent its economy, was pushed on the brink of collapse after the pandemic. Emergency border control measures rendered millions of people jobless. It is partially why the region is also working on individual plans. While, German Chanellor Angela Merkel declared the elimination of border controls from June 15 across the Schengen region. On the other hand the three Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are creating a ''travel bubble.'' They will reopen borders to each others’ citizens from May 15. India is keen to restart tourism as well. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi specifically highlighted the need to revive the country's domestic tourism and announced an economic stimulus of 10 per cent of it GDP because it contributes roughly the same share to India's economy. Therefore, the governments are keen on kickstarting tourism to get their economies back on track as they have come to the realisation that the world will have to learn to live with the virus.

Global governments banking on tourism for economic revival

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