The European Union has pushed for gradual reopening of internal borders, which are shut due to the coronavirus pandemic.

EU recommends restarting summer travel amid COVID-19 crisis

Covid-19: EU’s big push for lifting restrictions

The United States on Friday recorded its steepest job losses in history over the coronavirus pandemic as Europe, faced with rising deaths, moved to keep its borders shut for another month.

Hopes have been rising that the worst of the global catastrophe, which has killed more than 270,000 people, has passed, and the United States on Friday approved a new at-home saliva test to speed up diagnosis for COVID-19.

But after weeks in which half of humanity was restricted from carrying on normal life, the effects have been painfully visible, with the global economy suffering its most acute downturn in nearly a century.

In the United States, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-records-205-million-job-losses-in-april-no-surprise-will-bring-it-back-says-trump-297490">20.5 million jobs</a> were wiped out in April -- the most ever reported -- with unemployment rising to 14.7 per cent, the highest since the Great Depression.

The world's largest economy has suffered the deadliest coronavirus outbreak, with more than 77,000 fatalities and nearly 1.3 million cases.

Mindful of elections in November, President Donald Trump has nonetheless vowed to reopen the country, and a growing number of state governors have already let business resume with precautions.

Trump played down the unemployment numbers, saying they were expected, as the White House pointed to substantial gains Friday on global stock markets as proof that better times were ahead.

"We're going to have a phenomenal year next year," Trump told reporters. "I think it's going to come back blazing."

His optimism came even as the virus spread within the White House, with the press secretary of Vice President Mike Pence testing positive.

Neighboring Canada also shed three million jobs, bringing its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/75000-americans-at-risk-of-dying-from-coronavirus-despair-says-study-297460">unemployment rate </a>up to 13.1 percent, two days after the European Union forecast a massive recession in the bloc.

The United States on Friday recorded its steepest job losses in history over the coronavirus pandemic as Europe, faced with rising deaths, moved to keep its borders shut for another month.

The United States on Friday recorded its steepest job losses in history over the coronavirus pandemic as Europe, faced with rising deaths, moved to keep its borders shut for another month. Hopes have been rising that the worst of the global catastrophe, which has killed more than 270,000 people, has passed, and the United States on Friday approved a new at-home saliva test to speed up diagnosis for COVID-19. But after weeks in which half of humanity was restricted from carrying on normal life, the effects have been painfully visible, with the global economy suffering its most acute downturn in nearly a century. In the United States, 20.5 million jobs were wiped out in April -- the most ever reported -- with unemployment rising to 14.7 per cent, the highest since the Great Depression. The world's largest economy has suffered the deadliest coronavirus outbreak, with more than 77,000 fatalities and nearly 1.3 million cases. Mindful of elections in November, President Donald Trump has nonetheless vowed to reopen the country, and a growing number of state governors have already let business resume with precautions. Trump played down the unemployment numbers, saying they were expected, as the White House pointed to substantial gains Friday on global stock markets as proof that better times were ahead. "We're going to have a phenomenal year next year," Trump told reporters. "I think it's going to come back blazing." His optimism came even as the virus spread within the White House, with the press secretary of Vice President Mike Pence testing positive. Neighboring Canada also shed three million jobs, bringing its unemployment rate up to 13.1 percent, two days after the European Union forecast a massive recession in the bloc.

Coronavirus fuels historic US job losses, EU wants borders kept shut

It's not just the media which China wants to censor, it is targeting embassies based in China. It is targeting governments calling for an inquiry. Beijing is targeting any organization that dares to challenge its narrative.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-lambasts-us-for-coercing-countries-to-plant-covid-19-accusations-against-it-297110">Also Read: China&nbsp;lambasts US for coercing countries to plant COVID-19 accusations</a>&nbsp;

Even those who consider China a friend are being targeted, namely the European Union(EU). A union of 27 European nations,&nbsp;a body that is said to represent over 447 million Europeans but off late it has been representing and mirroring Chinese propaganda.

Firstly, the European Union watered down the coronavirus report critical of the Chinese regime and then some of its member nations hailed China as a brother for its "donation diplomacy".

Now, this body seems to be dealing with China on China's terms. The European Union recently released an opinion piece on the coronavirus. It was co-authored and co-signed by all European Union ambassadors to Beijing.

It was meant to celebrate the body's 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations with China. The European Union called it a friendship letter. &nbsp;

"The outbreak of the coronavirus in China and its subsequent spread to the rest of the world over the past three months, has meant that our pre-existing plans have been temporarily side-tracked," it said, a paragraph which pointed to China as the origin of this pandemic.

China's daily - a state-run newspaper published a letter &nbsp;on Wednesday, with part of the letter mentioned being removed. China censored the so called "friendship letter" and apparently the European Union didn't protest.

As per reports, it was the EU which allowed China to publish the censored version. According to Battu Henriksson, an EU spokeswoman on foreign affairs, "EU diplomats decided to proceed with the publication with considerable reluctance."

It's not just the media which China wants to censor, it is targeting embassies based in China. It is targeting governments calling for an inquiry. Beijing is targeting any organization that dares to challenge its narrative.

It's not just the media which China wants to censor, it is targeting embassies based in China. It is targeting governments calling for an inquiry. Beijing is targeting any organization that dares to challenge its narrative. Also Read: China lambasts US for coercing countries to plant COVID-19 accusations Even those who consider China a friend are being targeted, namely the European Union(EU). A union of 27 European nations, a body that is said to represent over 447 million Europeans but off late it has been representing and mirroring Chinese propaganda. Firstly, the European Union watered down the coronavirus report critical of the Chinese regime and then some of its member nations hailed China as a brother for its "donation diplomacy". Now, this body seems to be dealing with China on China's terms. The European Union recently released an opinion piece on the coronavirus. It was co-authored and co-signed by all European Union ambassadors to Beijing. It was meant to celebrate the body's 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations with China. The European Union called it a friendship letter. "The outbreak of the coronavirus in China and its subsequent spread to the rest of the world over the past three months, has meant that our pre-existing plans have been temporarily side-tracked," it said, a paragraph which pointed to China as the origin of this pandemic. China's daily - a state-run newspaper published a letter on Wednesday, with part of the letter mentioned being removed. China censored the so called "friendship letter" and apparently the European Union didn't protest. As per reports, it was the EU which allowed China to publish the censored version. According to Battu Henriksson, an EU spokeswoman on foreign affairs, "EU diplomats decided to proceed with the publication with considerable reluctance."

Now, China censors European Union's 'friendship letter'

The European Commission will prepare in the next weeks a plan to finance the economic recovery in the European Union, European Commissioner for Economic and Financial Affairs Paolo Gentiloni said on Wednesday.

The European Commission will prepare in the next weeks a plan to finance the economic recovery in the European Union, European Commissioner for Economic and Financial Affairs Paolo Gentiloni said on Wednesday. He said that he was confident the plan would be approved by EU leaders in June. Gentiloni told a news conference the plan would include a mix of grants and long-term loans. He also said that the Commission would present to eurozone finance ministers on Friday an eligibility assessment for the use of the eurozone bailout fund's precautionary credit line to fight the COVID-19 pandemic and that all eurozone countries would be eligible for the money. The EU, over the pandemic, has entered the deepest economic recession in its history, he said. "The coronavirus caused an unprecedented economic crisis," Gentiloni said. Gentiloni presented the EU’s 2020 spring economic forecast, and according to the report, its gross domestic product (GDP) is expected to contract 7.4% in 2020. “Both recession and recovery will be uneven,” he stressed. Inflation will be significantly weaker due to the fall of consumer prices, while unemployment is set to rise despite government measures, he added. (With inputs from Reuters)

EU recovery plan to be ready in weeks, to be approved in June: Top official

India has briefed European Union on the methodology it is following in combating the spread of COVID-19 including "macro-level response of the government since January 2020". Speaking to WION's Principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, India's envoy to EU Gaitri Issar Kumar said mission swiftly liaised with universities in Belgium to provide Indian students on accommodation, services etc and New Delhi has made sure that continued flow of essential medical supplies from India to the EU.

WION: How is the situation in EU now and role played by the Indian mission in Brussels in taking care of Indian citizens?

Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: The EU has been affected more directly in a way, as the virus seems to have reached directly and spread very rapidly in Europe – first in Italy followed by Spain, Belgium, Germany and the other EU Member States. Today, the situation in the EU, after a worrisome period, seems to be improving as per reports. The lockdown and containment measures – including the closing of borders --&nbsp;though challenging for EU citizens and governments alike, have proven to be successful.

The EU leadership quickly took steps to ensure the uninterrupted flow of essential supplies through the EU’s internal borders by creating “green lanes” and that helped to avoid shortages in supermarkets across the EU. Healthcare systems are being revamped across the European Union, people seem to have settled down into the new normal and social distancing rules are being followed with considerable discipline. &nbsp;Of course, as in the rest of the world, the pandemic has caused a shut down of normal economic activity in the EU.

I am glad to say that by and large, the Indian community in Belgium and Luxembourg has stayed safe and well. As for our Mission, we have been complying with the Belgian Government’s advisories and encouraging Indian nationals and the Indian-origin community in Belgium and Luxembourg to do so as well.

Fortunately, as we are in close touch with the Indian community leaders, we were able to alert and advise them, render consular services and help many to depart from here well before the lockdown in Belgium (March 18, 2020) – which was before the announcement, by Government of India, of restrictions on travel to India.

Since then, Indian nationals who stayed back, professionals employed here and students &nbsp;- those who have contacted us seeking information or help have been attended to individually. They have been briefed about the lockdown in India – the necessary quarantine of incoming travellers and advised that till flights to India and within India are restored, the best thing to do would be to prepare for an extended stay wherever they are. In many cases, our Mission has connected stranded visitors and students with local doctors, grocers or suppliers of ready meals. As required, we have, in consultation with local authorities, assisted Indian nationals in securing an extension of their visas. In order to avoid uncertainty and stress to Indian students, our Mission’s officers swiftly liaised with universities in Belgium to provide our students accurate information about measures being taken by them to facilitate accommodation, services etc in the unforeseen situation.

I am happy to say that our officers have received very positive feedback, and they continue to take care to reassure each caller, note the particular circumstances in each case and prioritise requests received for assisted departures.

WION: How are India and EU collaborating in the fight against COVID pandemic?

Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: We have been consulting closely. We decided to postpone the India-EU Summit which had been scheduled for March 13, 2020; once the lockdown was announced in India, we coordinated to ensure the continued flow of essential medical supplies from India to the EU and the repatriation of European nationals. About 20,000 EU citizens in the different states of India have been assisted in taking special flights back to the EU Member States. Our Government has evacuated Indian nationals from Italy and Hague (stranded en route from US/Canada to India).

Our leaders have been speaking to each other, sharing experiences and discussing joint efforts for reviving the global economy. On March 24, 2020, Hon'ble Prime Minister received a call from H.E. Ursula Von Der Leyen, President of the European Commission – the two leaders discussed the global situation in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, PM&nbsp;expressed his condolences at the loss of life in the European Union due to COVID-19 and emphasized the need for coordination and cooperation among all nations to fight the pandemic. The PM &nbsp;spoke about the steps taken by India to contain the spread of the Coronavirus. President Von Der Leyen praised PM’s leadership in taking early measures – which, she said, had been key to containing the spread of the virus in India.

She also expressed her appreciation for the assistance rendered to the European citizens stranded in India in this situation. Von Der Leyen emphasized the importance of maintaining a steady supply of essential items - including medicines - and coordinating research as well as vaccine development; and the two leaders discussed possible cooperation, within the G-20 framework, to address the health crisis and revive global economic growth.

The EU’s High Representative in charge of the EU’s Foreign and Security Policy, Mr Josep Borrell and Hble External Affairs Minister of India have, similarly, spoken and exchanged views on the challenges India and the EU are facing respectively; and India’s &nbsp;Foreign Secretary and his EU counterpart, Mme Helga Schmid, Secretary-General of the European External Action Services have also spoken telephonically.

India and the EU, in any case, share a deep commitment to multilateralism, sustainable development, preserving a rules-based international order, rules-based international trade with WTO at its core and we have a convergence on most global issues – whether it is climate change or connectivity, EU is supportive of India’s International Solar Alliance (ISA) initiative and the Climate and Disaster Resilience Initiatives (CDRI). Now, all these are most relevant – perhaps a reprioritization of some elements of our co-operation &nbsp;– such as healthcare and research - would be necessary in response to the emerging world scenario and infusion of a greater sense of urgency in others areas - like climate change, enhancing trade and investment flows in both directions etc.

WION: Have we shared any Indian model?

Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: As a part of our regular exchanges, our Mission here has been sharing the developments in India, briefing EU partners on the methodology that we have followed in combating SPREAD of COVID 19 in India including the macro-level response of Government since January 2020.

WION: How are Indian diplomats doing, how has diplomacy changed due to COVID?

Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: So far we have been coping fairly well. Of course, we have been working from home. We have faced no difficulty in reaching our Embassy whenever it has been necessary to go into the office - with due precautions. We have meticulously complied with the local Government’s advisories and ensured that the Indian Mission and community co-operate and contribute to making the Belgian Government’s containment strategy work. One of our main priorities, naturally, has been to co-ordinate closely local authorities in assisting the Indian diaspora with their visa issues and resolving any other problems faced by stranded Indians.

We are engaging – almost as smoothly as before - with our counterparts in the Foreign Ministries of Belgium and Luxembourg and the European Commission/European External Action Services in the context of our normal diplomatic work. However, naturally, it is not business as usual; for example, we have certainly lost valuable time in implementing the India-EU Road Map due to the postponement of the 15th India EU Summit. But we remain positive and look forward to a strengthened India-EU partnership. But we all agree that in diplomacy, face to face meetings and negotiations are almost indispensable. So much of communication relies on a personal touch. Presently we are drawing on a bank of goodwill built-in energetic pre-COVID diplomatic efforts.

India has briefed European Union on the methodology it is following in combating the spread of COVID-19 including "macro-level response of the government since January 2020".

India has briefed European Union on the methodology it is following in combating the spread of COVID-19 including "macro-level response of the government since January 2020". Speaking to WION's Principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, India's envoy to EU Gaitri Issar Kumar said mission swiftly liaised with universities in Belgium to provide Indian students on accommodation, services etc and New Delhi has made sure that continued flow of essential medical supplies from India to the EU. WION: How is the situation in EU now and role played by the Indian mission in Brussels in taking care of Indian citizens? Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: The EU has been affected more directly in a way, as the virus seems to have reached directly and spread very rapidly in Europe – first in Italy followed by Spain, Belgium, Germany and the other EU Member States. Today, the situation in the EU, after a worrisome period, seems to be improving as per reports. The lockdown and containment measures – including the closing of borders -- though challenging for EU citizens and governments alike, have proven to be successful. The EU leadership quickly took steps to ensure the uninterrupted flow of essential supplies through the EU’s internal borders by creating “green lanes” and that helped to avoid shortages in supermarkets across the EU. Healthcare systems are being revamped across the European Union, people seem to have settled down into the new normal and social distancing rules are being followed with considerable discipline. Of course, as in the rest of the world, the pandemic has caused a shut down of normal economic activity in the EU. I am glad to say that by and large, the Indian community in Belgium and Luxembourg has stayed safe and well. As for our Mission, we have been complying with the Belgian Government’s advisories and encouraging Indian nationals and the Indian-origin community in Belgium and Luxembourg to do so as well. Fortunately, as we are in close touch with the Indian community leaders, we were able to alert and advise them, render consular services and help many to depart from here well before the lockdown in Belgium (March 18, 2020) – which was before the announcement, by Government of India, of restrictions on travel to India. Since then, Indian nationals who stayed back, professionals employed here and students - those who have contacted us seeking information or help have been attended to individually. They have been briefed about the lockdown in India – the necessary quarantine of incoming travellers and advised that till flights to India and within India are restored, the best thing to do would be to prepare for an extended stay wherever they are. In many cases, our Mission has connected stranded visitors and students with local doctors, grocers or suppliers of ready meals. As required, we have, in consultation with local authorities, assisted Indian nationals in securing an extension of their visas. In order to avoid uncertainty and stress to Indian students, our Mission’s officers swiftly liaised with universities in Belgium to provide our students accurate information about measures being taken by them to facilitate accommodation, services etc in the unforeseen situation. I am happy to say that our officers have received very positive feedback, and they continue to take care to reassure each caller, note the particular circumstances in each case and prioritise requests received for assisted departures. WION: How are India and EU collaborating in the fight against COVID pandemic? Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: We have been consulting closely. We decided to postpone the India-EU Summit which had been scheduled for March 13, 2020; once the lockdown was announced in India, we coordinated to ensure the continued flow of essential medical supplies from India to the EU and the repatriation of European nationals. About 20,000 EU citizens in the different states of India have been assisted in taking special flights back to the EU Member States. Our Government has evacuated Indian nationals from Italy and Hague (stranded en route from US/Canada to India). Our leaders have been speaking to each other, sharing experiences and discussing joint efforts for reviving the global economy. On March 24, 2020, Hon'ble Prime Minister received a call from H.E. Ursula Von Der Leyen, President of the European Commission – the two leaders discussed the global situation in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, PM expressed his condolences at the loss of life in the European Union due to COVID-19 and emphasized the need for coordination and cooperation among all nations to fight the pandemic. The PM spoke about the steps taken by India to contain the spread of the Coronavirus. President Von Der Leyen praised PM’s leadership in taking early measures – which, she said, had been key to containing the spread of the virus in India. She also expressed her appreciation for the assistance rendered to the European citizens stranded in India in this situation. Von Der Leyen emphasized the importance of maintaining a steady supply of essential items - including medicines - and coordinating research as well as vaccine development; and the two leaders discussed possible cooperation, within the G-20 framework, to address the health crisis and revive global economic growth. The EU’s High Representative in charge of the EU’s Foreign and Security Policy, Mr Josep Borrell and Hble External Affairs Minister of India have, similarly, spoken and exchanged views on the challenges India and the EU are facing respectively; and India’s Foreign Secretary and his EU counterpart, Mme Helga Schmid, Secretary-General of the European External Action Services have also spoken telephonically. India and the EU, in any case, share a deep commitment to multilateralism, sustainable development, preserving a rules-based international order, rules-based international trade with WTO at its core and we have a convergence on most global issues – whether it is climate change or connectivity, EU is supportive of India’s International Solar Alliance (ISA) initiative and the Climate and Disaster Resilience Initiatives (CDRI). Now, all these are most relevant – perhaps a reprioritization of some elements of our co-operation – such as healthcare and research - would be necessary in response to the emerging world scenario and infusion of a greater sense of urgency in others areas - like climate change, enhancing trade and investment flows in both directions etc. WION: Have we shared any Indian model? Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: As a part of our regular exchanges, our Mission here has been sharing the developments in India, briefing EU partners on the methodology that we have followed in combating SPREAD of COVID 19 in India including the macro-level response of Government since January 2020. WION: How are Indian diplomats doing, how has diplomacy changed due to COVID? Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: So far we have been coping fairly well. Of course, we have been working from home. We have faced no difficulty in reaching our Embassy whenever it has been necessary to go into the office - with due precautions. We have meticulously complied with the local Government’s advisories and ensured that the Indian Mission and community co-operate and contribute to making the Belgian Government’s containment strategy work. One of our main priorities, naturally, has been to co-ordinate closely local authorities in assisting the Indian diaspora with their visa issues and resolving any other problems faced by stranded Indians. We are engaging – almost as smoothly as before - with our counterparts in the Foreign Ministries of Belgium and Luxembourg and the European Commission/European External Action Services in the context of our normal diplomatic work. However, naturally, it is not business as usual; for example, we have certainly lost valuable time in implementing the India-EU Road Map due to the postponement of the 15th India EU Summit. But we remain positive and look forward to a strengthened India-EU partnership. But we all agree that in diplomacy, face to face meetings and negotiations are almost indispensable. So much of communication relies on a personal touch. Presently we are drawing on a bank of goodwill built-in energetic pre-COVID diplomatic efforts.

India briefed EU on methodology followed in combating spread of COVID-19: India's envoy to EU Gaitri Issar Kumar

A request for resuming peace talks was made in a joint video call between the foreign ministers of Germany, France and Italy and the EU`s top diplomat on. The video call took place on Saturday and a humanitarian truce was called by the officials.

"We want to unite our voices to those of the U.N. Secretary-General (Antonio) Guterres and his Acting Special Representative for Libya, Stephanie Turco Williams, in their call for a humanitarian truce in Libya," the statement said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-impact-is-covid-19-having-on-war-torn-areas-like-yemen-syria-libya-290652">Also read: What impact is COVID-19 having on worn-torn areas like Yemen, Syria, Libya</a>

"We call on all the Libyan actors to get inspired by the spirit of the Holy Ramadan, engage in resuming talks for a genuine ceasefire," said the statement, signed by the EU`s Josep Borrell, France`s Jean-Yves Le Drian, Italy`s Luigi di Maio and Heiko Maas of Germany.

The conflicts in conflicts in the western areas of Libya had escalated this month, despite several urgent calls from the U.N. for a truce.&nbsp;

While the European Union has been able to stop the transportation of artillery from eastern Mediterranean side, it has not been able to stop the transfer from the Egypt-Libya land border.

A request for resuming peace talks was made in a joint video call between the foreign ministers of Germany, France and Italy and the EU`s top diplomat on. The video call took place on Saturday and a humanitarian truce was called by the officials.

A request for resuming peace talks was made in a joint video call between the foreign ministers of Germany, France and Italy and the EU`s top diplomat on. The video call took place on Saturday and a humanitarian truce was called by the officials. "We want to unite our voices to those of the U.N. Secretary-General (Antonio) Guterres and his Acting Special Representative for Libya, Stephanie Turco Williams, in their call for a humanitarian truce in Libya," the statement said. Also read: What impact is COVID-19 having on worn-torn areas like Yemen, Syria, Libya "We call on all the Libyan actors to get inspired by the spirit of the Holy Ramadan, engage in resuming talks for a genuine ceasefire," said the statement, signed by the EU`s Josep Borrell, France`s Jean-Yves Le Drian, Italy`s Luigi di Maio and Heiko Maas of Germany. The conflicts in conflicts in the western areas of Libya had escalated this month, despite several urgent calls from the U.N. for a truce. While the European Union has been able to stop the transportation of artillery from eastern Mediterranean side, it has not been able to stop the transfer from the Egypt-Libya land border.

Europe calls for humanitarian truce in Libya

The coronavirus is becoming a major threat to the European Union. Major European economies have been ravaged by the crisis but the EU leaders are still unable to agree on an adequate relief package. Watch report.

Coronavirus Pandemic: EU leaders agree on an expanded 7-yr budget

European Union leaders have agreed upon a plan for injecting billions of euros of emergency aid into Europe's battered economies.

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said the fund would mobilise €1 trillion of investment.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-people-from-ethnic-communities-are-worst-affected-by-coronavirus-in-uk-294312" hreflang="en">Why people from ethnic communities are worst affected by coronavirus in UK</a>

The various heads of the bloc held a meeting through video conferencing during which&nbsp;they agreed to set up a massive recovery fund, closely tied to it's seven-year budget.

They also confirmed that €540bn of financial support would be released through existing mechanisms from 1 June.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-vaccine-trial-on-humans-starts-in-uk-294384" hreflang="en">COVID-19 vaccine trial on humans starts in UK</a>

Previously, a bitter argument had taken place regarding how to fund the much-needed aid.

Italy, which has hit the hardest by the outbreak in Europe,&nbsp;had urged its EU partners&nbsp;to show more solidarity.

However, after the relief fund got passed it's Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said "great progress" had been made.

Leaders also agreed to follow guidance from the EU Commission, the organisation's executive arm, on easing their respective lockdowns once the spread of the virus had reduced for a "significant period".

Details of how the longer term recovery plan will be funded will be discussed at another videoconference on May 6.

&nbsp;

European Union leaders have agreed upon a plan for injecting billions of euros of emergency aid into Europe's battered economies. European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said the fund would mobilise €1 trillion of investment.

European Union leaders have agreed upon a plan for injecting billions of euros of emergency aid into Europe's battered economies. European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said the fund would mobilise €1 trillion of investment. Also read: Why people from ethnic communities are worst affected by coronavirus in UK The various heads of the bloc held a meeting through video conferencing during which they agreed to set up a massive recovery fund, closely tied to it's seven-year budget. They also confirmed that €540bn of financial support would be released through existing mechanisms from 1 June. Also read: COVID-19 vaccine trial on humans starts in UK Previously, a bitter argument had taken place regarding how to fund the much-needed aid. Italy, which has hit the hardest by the outbreak in Europe, had urged its EU partners to show more solidarity. However, after the relief fund got passed it's Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said "great progress" had been made. Leaders also agreed to follow guidance from the EU Commission, the organisation's executive arm, on easing their respective lockdowns once the spread of the virus had reduced for a "significant period". Details of how the longer term recovery plan will be funded will be discussed at another videoconference on May 6.

EU leaders agree to mobilise €1 trillion as Covid-19 rescue plan

The coronavirus is becoming a major threat to the European Union. Major European economies have been ravaged by the crisis but the EU leaders are still unable to agree on an adequate relief package. In this segment of WION, WION has partnered with Deutsche Welle to bring updates on the story.

EU leaders meet halfway on recovery fund | WION-Deutsche Welle Partnership

For Russia, misinformation is a legitimate weapon to achieve foreign policy goals. Experts who have studied the Russian playbook say the kremlin deploys several tools including fake stories, digital troll, and shadowy blogs. And now, Russia's latest playground is Europe.

A report published on US-based media site, politico claimed that Russian sources are pushing fake news in Europe in an attempt to undermine the European Union.

The EU foreign service says Russia and China are "carpet bombing" Europeans with coronavirus lies.

Another report was published on European online newspaper, which also claimed that the Russian state media is indeed spreading misleading advice like baking soda, lemon, vitamin C, and zinc would kill the coronavirus while washing hands is ineffective.

A website name "orientalreview" which is believed to be a pro-Kremlin site published an article in March in which it downplayed that coronavirus pandemic which has killed over 180,000 people globally and claimed that the deadly virus is less harmful than seasonal influenza.

"The great COVID-19 legacy will leave far fewer deaths than common influenza when the panic has dissipated". If this piece downplays the crisis.

While another pro-Russian blog called "Geopolitica" published an article with a headline reading, "The plague gods: The geopolitics of epidemic and the bubbles of nothing" in which it claimed that the "coronavirus will end the civilisation."

The problem of misinformation is real and while Europe iis the worst affected continent from coronavirus with over a million cases of infection, the infodemic is only adding to Europe's troubles.

Last month, the President of the European Commission, Ursula Von Der Leyen had to release a video to bust some of the fake claims herself.

Oxford's Reuters Institute tracked the spread of 225 fake claims during which they that 88 per cent of the misleading claims of the coronavirus appeared on social media platforms.

Out of this, 9% of these claims ran on television; 8% in other news outlets.

For Russia, misinformation is a legitimate weapon to achieve foreign policy goals. Experts who have studied the Russian playbook say the kremlin deploys several tools including fake stories, digital troll, and shadowy blogs.

For Russia, misinformation is a legitimate weapon to achieve foreign policy goals. Experts who have studied the Russian playbook say the kremlin deploys several tools including fake stories, digital troll, and shadowy blogs. And now, Russia's latest playground is Europe. A report published on US-based media site, politico claimed that Russian sources are pushing fake news in Europe in an attempt to undermine the European Union. The EU foreign service says Russia and China are "carpet bombing" Europeans with coronavirus lies. Another report was published on European online newspaper, which also claimed that the Russian state media is indeed spreading misleading advice like baking soda, lemon, vitamin C, and zinc would kill the coronavirus while washing hands is ineffective. A website name "orientalreview" which is believed to be a pro-Kremlin site published an article in March in which it downplayed that coronavirus pandemic which has killed over 180,000 people globally and claimed that the deadly virus is less harmful than seasonal influenza. "The great COVID-19 legacy will leave far fewer deaths than common influenza when the panic has dissipated". If this piece downplays the crisis. While another pro-Russian blog called "Geopolitica" published an article with a headline reading, "The plague gods: The geopolitics of epidemic and the bubbles of nothing" in which it claimed that the "coronavirus will end the civilisation." The problem of misinformation is real and while Europe iis the worst affected continent from coronavirus with over a million cases of infection, the infodemic is only adding to Europe's troubles. Last month, the President of the European Commission, Ursula Von Der Leyen had to release a video to bust some of the fake claims herself. Oxford's Reuters Institute tracked the spread of 225 fake claims during which they that 88 per cent of the misleading claims of the coronavirus appeared on social media platforms. Out of this, 9% of these claims ran on television; 8% in other news outlets.

Amid coronavirus pandemic, Russia spreads misinformation to undermine European Union: Report

Tentative signs of hope emerged Thursday that the coronavirus pandemic was peaking, as the European Union sealed a rescue package to help the hard-hit continent.&nbsp;

With the death toll passing 94,000, there remained plenty of grim news, with the IMF warning that the world was dipping into a new Great Depression and new data showing the United States has shed a massive 17 million jobs in a matter of weeks.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imf-says-coronavirus-could-trigger-worst-fallout-since-the-1930s-291638" hreflang="en">IMF says coronavirus could trigger worst fallout since the 1930s</a>

But hospitalisations dropped in several countries and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, the highest profile of the 1.5 million people infected by the virus, exited three days of intensive care.

"The fire started by the pandemic is starting to come under control," said Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez of Spain, where fatalities inched down to 683 from 757 a day before, pushing the total above 15,000.

"Our priority now is not to turn back, especially not to return to our starting point, not to lower our guard," Sanchez told parliament.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-to-extend-lockdown-as-thailand-begins-mobile-testing-291630" hreflang="en">France to extend lockdown as Thailand begins mobile testing&nbsp;</a>

France reported that 82 fewer people were in intensive care for COVID-19 -- the first fall since the pandemic broke out.

EU finance ministers agreed in late-night talks to a 500 billion-euro&nbsp;rescue package aimed at reducing pain across the 27-nation bloc, especially hardest-hit Italy and Spain.

"Europe has decided and is ready to meet the gravity of the crisis," French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire tweeted after the talks.

He warned earlier in the day that France's economy is expected to shrink six percent this year, even with the country's own 100-billion-euro relief plan.

EU finance ministers put aside proposals by France and Italy for pooled borrowing. The Netherlands relented and let the deal come through after pushing hard for Italy and other affected countries to undertake economic reforms.

Tentative signs of hope emerged Thursday that the coronavirus pandemic was peaking, as the European Union sealed a rescue package to help the hard-hit continent.

Tentative signs of hope emerged Thursday that the coronavirus pandemic was peaking, as the European Union sealed a rescue package to help the hard-hit continent. With the death toll passing 94,000, there remained plenty of grim news, with the IMF warning that the world was dipping into a new Great Depression and new data showing the United States has shed a massive 17 million jobs in a matter of weeks. Also read: IMF says coronavirus could trigger worst fallout since the 1930s But hospitalisations dropped in several countries and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, the highest profile of the 1.5 million people infected by the virus, exited three days of intensive care. "The fire started by the pandemic is starting to come under control," said Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez of Spain, where fatalities inched down to 683 from 757 a day before, pushing the total above 15,000. "Our priority now is not to turn back, especially not to return to our starting point, not to lower our guard," Sanchez told parliament. Also read: France to extend lockdown as Thailand begins mobile testing France reported that 82 fewer people were in intensive care for COVID-19 -- the first fall since the pandemic broke out. EU finance ministers agreed in late-night talks to a 500 billion-euro rescue package aimed at reducing pain across the 27-nation bloc, especially hardest-hit Italy and Spain. "Europe has decided and is ready to meet the gravity of the crisis," French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire tweeted after the talks. He warned earlier in the day that France's economy is expected to shrink six percent this year, even with the country's own 100-billion-euro relief plan. EU finance ministers put aside proposals by France and Italy for pooled borrowing. The Netherlands relented and let the deal come through after pushing hard for Italy and other affected countries to undertake economic reforms.

European Union strikes rescue deal as hopes rise of coronavirus easing

Watch today in WION's Today Tonight: European Union Ambassador to India Ugo Astuto speaks exclusively to WION and laud India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi's initiatives.

Today Tonight: European Union envoy speaks to WION, laud PM Modi's initiatives

European Union has said that India has taken pandemic very seriously and New Delhi's measures to curb COVID spread is in line with global lessons learnt.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, EU Ambassador to India Ugo Astuto said, Unprecedented events call for unprecedented actions, and welcoming Indian PM Modi starting the "conversation" on COVID at G20.

WION: How do India and EU cooperating on COVID crisis? 
 
Ambassador Ugo Astuto: Thank u very much. The crisis has called for national cooperation and solidarity and I think India and EU start from the same proposition that we are all together in this and that we all need to work together to overcome the challenge. Unprecedented events call for unprecedented actions, fast and coordinated action. Coordination on macroeconomic policy to mitigate the downturn also needed. Initiative taken by PM Modi to start the conversation in G20 was particularly was timely and EU fully support, I think, we need to work together and we need to mobilize all the international mechanism to be it the UN, G20 or IMF and Indian leadership has been in touch with the European leadership EU and member state on the present state regularly. EAM and his counterpart spoke and we try to work hand in hand to offer our contribution to the global endeavour.

WION: How is the situation in Europe? 
Ambassador Ugo Astuto: It is a global pandemic and it is impacting the entire world. Europe has been hit, it has been hit hard, Italy, Spain, France and all over Europe. No country has been spared actually, now in Europe we have started to see some signal infection is slowing, hopefully, it will regress starting with countries it has hit first. But we need to remain vigilant and determined and it is not time to lower our guard, we need to continue to keep and take necessary measures to fight the virus, and EU has been mobilizing all the tools it has to foster a coordinated reaction to the challenge, just to give you an example, we have mobilized funds 140 million..ensuring provisions of medical equipment, coordinating the delivery of masks and respirators which are surely needed this time, set up a task force of scientists to develop guidelines and strategy, it is important whatever we do is evidence-based and based on best available scientific advice and we have been trying to help global endeavours, for instance, supporting WHO by setting aside euro 140 million to boost global containment.

WION: How do see Indian actions to curb COVID? 
Ambassador Ugo Astuto: Indian authorities have taken the issue of pandemic very seriously since the beginning and rightly so. I see measures adopted is in line with the lessons learnt in other countries. As I said, we need to act globally in a coordinated fashion to win this battle, so EU and India are on the same page, and initiatives taken by PM Modi to discuss it at G20, is something important. We need a global conversation and global cooperation on COVID and we need global coordinated actions and international action.

WION: European citizens in India, their evacuation..any update? 
Ambassador Ugo Astuto: Several EU member states have started to organise special flights to bring tourist home and EU delegation has tried to assist in their endeavours and u can imagine it is a complex operation logistically. EU members states are counting on the full support of Indian authorities and we are very grateful, it is a massive operation and not yet over and difficult to quote figures but I think we are looking at thousands of tourists. &nbsp;

WION: How do u see UN meet on COVID 
Ambassador Ugo Astuto: We have all been taken aback at the beginning of this crisis and magnitude of the challenge we facing and now we all stepping up the reaction. Globally, EU is a strong supporter of the UN and belives in the rules-based international system of governance and we can only welcome, discussion at UN for a coordinated global response.

European Union has said that India has taken pandemic very seriously and New Delhi's measures to curb COVID spread is in line with global lessons learnt. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, EU Ambassador to India Ugo Astuto said, Unprecedented events call for unprecedented actions, and welcoming Indian PM Modi starting the "conversation" on COVID at G20.

European Union has said that India has taken pandemic very seriously and New Delhi's measures to curb COVID spread is in line with global lessons learnt. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, EU Ambassador to India Ugo Astuto said, Unprecedented events call for unprecedented actions, and welcoming Indian PM Modi starting the "conversation" on COVID at G20. WION: How do India and EU cooperating on COVID crisis? Ambassador Ugo Astuto: Thank u very much. The crisis has called for national cooperation and solidarity and I think India and EU start from the same proposition that we are all together in this and that we all need to work together to overcome the challenge. Unprecedented events call for unprecedented actions, fast and coordinated action. Coordination on macroeconomic policy to mitigate the downturn also needed. Initiative taken by PM Modi to start the conversation in G20 was particularly was timely and EU fully support, I think, we need to work together and we need to mobilize all the international mechanism to be it the UN, G20 or IMF and Indian leadership has been in touch with the European leadership EU and member state on the present state regularly. EAM and his counterpart spoke and we try to work hand in hand to offer our contribution to the global endeavour. WION: How is the situation in Europe? Ambassador Ugo Astuto: It is a global pandemic and it is impacting the entire world. Europe has been hit, it has been hit hard, Italy, Spain, France and all over Europe. No country has been spared actually, now in Europe we have started to see some signal infection is slowing, hopefully, it will regress starting with countries it has hit first. But we need to remain vigilant and determined and it is not time to lower our guard, we need to continue to keep and take necessary measures to fight the virus, and EU has been mobilizing all the tools it has to foster a coordinated reaction to the challenge, just to give you an example, we have mobilized funds 140 million..ensuring provisions of medical equipment, coordinating the delivery of masks and respirators which are surely needed this time, set up a task force of scientists to develop guidelines and strategy, it is important whatever we do is evidence-based and based on best available scientific advice and we have been trying to help global endeavours, for instance, supporting WHO by setting aside euro 140 million to boost global containment. WION: How do see Indian actions to curb COVID? Ambassador Ugo Astuto: Indian authorities have taken the issue of pandemic very seriously since the beginning and rightly so. I see measures adopted is in line with the lessons learnt in other countries. As I said, we need to act globally in a coordinated fashion to win this battle, so EU and India are on the same page, and initiatives taken by PM Modi to discuss it at G20, is something important. We need a global conversation and global cooperation on COVID and we need global coordinated actions and international action. WION: European citizens in India, their evacuation..any update? Ambassador Ugo Astuto: Several EU member states have started to organise special flights to bring tourist home and EU delegation has tried to assist in their endeavours and u can imagine it is a complex operation logistically. EU members states are counting on the full support of Indian authorities and we are very grateful, it is a massive operation and not yet over and difficult to quote figures but I think we are looking at thousands of tourists. WION: How do u see UN meet on COVID Ambassador Ugo Astuto: We have all been taken aback at the beginning of this crisis and magnitude of the challenge we facing and now we all stepping up the reaction. Globally, EU is a strong supporter of the UN and belives in the rules-based international system of governance and we can only welcome, discussion at UN for a coordinated global response.

Indian measures in line with global lessons says European Union; lauds PM Modi's initiative at G20

Two European Commissioners urged Germany on Monday to agree to the European Union issuing joint debt to fight the coronavirus crisis, as wealthy northern nations remain reluctant to back so-called coronabonds.

"Like the European Central Bank in the monetary and financial sphere, the member states must now prove their joint decisive and innovative spirit," internal market commissioner Thierry Breton and economy commissioner Paolo Gentiloni wrote in the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ) daily.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-proposes-sure-plan-worth-eu100-billion-to-save-jobs-amid-coronavirus-crisis-290430">EU proposes 'Sure plan' worth €100 billion to save jobs amid coronavirus crisis</a>

That could take the shape of "a European fund whose explicit function would make possible issuing long-term bonds," Breton and Gentiloni suggested.

"Strictly limited to collective investments for industrial revitalisation in the context of the current crisis," the instrument would be proof of "unshakeable solidarity" among EU nations, they argued.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-germany-is-winning-battle-against-the-coronavirus-outbreak-289784">How Germany is winning battle against the coronavirus outbreak</a>

A group of states including southern European heavyweights Italy, France and Spain have been imploring northerners like Germany, Austria and the Netherlands for common debt facilities to cushion the economic impact of the virus.

But conservative politicians in the north fear the plans would mean the eventual mutualisation of all sovereign debts and their taxpayers footing the bill for supposed southern profligacy.

Finance ministers from the 19 euro single currency member states will meet Tuesday to again seek a solution to the deadlock.

Germany's Olaf Scholz on Friday proposed a three-pronged scheme including cheap loans from the financial crisis-era European Stability Mechanism (ESM), cash from the European Investment Bank and an EU-wide unemployment reinsurance scheme, skirting the issue of joint debt.

And EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Friday promised a post-crisis "Marshall Plan" for the bloc funded through its existing joint budget, whose next seven-year period runs from 2021-27.

Two European Commissioners urged Germany on Monday to agree to the European Union issuing joint debt to fight the coronavirus crisis, as wealthy northern nations remain reluctant to back so-called coronabonds.

Two European Commissioners urged Germany on Monday to agree to the European Union issuing joint debt to fight the coronavirus crisis, as wealthy northern nations remain reluctant to back so-called coronabonds. "Like the European Central Bank in the monetary and financial sphere, the member states must now prove their joint decisive and innovative spirit," internal market commissioner Thierry Breton and economy commissioner Paolo Gentiloni wrote in the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ) daily. Also read: EU proposes 'Sure plan' worth €100 billion to save jobs amid coronavirus crisis That could take the shape of "a European fund whose explicit function would make possible issuing long-term bonds," Breton and Gentiloni suggested. "Strictly limited to collective investments for industrial revitalisation in the context of the current crisis," the instrument would be proof of "unshakeable solidarity" among EU nations, they argued. Also read: How Germany is winning battle against the coronavirus outbreak A group of states including southern European heavyweights Italy, France and Spain have been imploring northerners like Germany, Austria and the Netherlands for common debt facilities to cushion the economic impact of the virus. But conservative politicians in the north fear the plans would mean the eventual mutualisation of all sovereign debts and their taxpayers footing the bill for supposed southern profligacy. Finance ministers from the 19 euro single currency member states will meet Tuesday to again seek a solution to the deadlock. Germany's Olaf Scholz on Friday proposed a three-pronged scheme including cheap loans from the financial crisis-era European Stability Mechanism (ESM), cash from the European Investment Bank and an EU-wide unemployment reinsurance scheme, skirting the issue of joint debt. And EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Friday promised a post-crisis "Marshall Plan" for the bloc funded through its existing joint budget, whose next seven-year period runs from 2021-27.

European commissioners prod Germany over 'coronabonds'

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said Friday he has "no time" for scathing criticism by EU allies of sweeping powers he took on this week to tackle the coronavirus threat.

Thirteen European centre-right parties urged their European Peoples Party (EPP) political group to expel Orban's Fidesz party after he assumed emergency powers on Monday.

Orban insists he must rule by decree to tackle the spread of the new coronavirus pandemic. But many, including some of his allies in the EPP, accuse him of a power grab gone too far.

"With all due respect I have no time for this," said Orban in a letter to EPP Secretary-General Antonio Lopez-Isturiz White posted on Twitter by one of his ministers Katalin Novak.

"I can hardly imagine any of us having time for fantasies about the intentions of other countries. This seems to me to be a costly luxury these days," he wrote.

"I am ready to discuss this once the pandemic is over," he added.

The Scandinavian, Greek, Belgian, Lithuanian, Czech and Slovak conservatives, who signed Thursday's statement calling for Fidesz to be kicked out of the EPP, do not represent a majority of the group.

But their letter strengthens the hand of party chairman Donald Tusk, the former Polish leader and president of the European Council, who is pushing the EPP to distance itself from Orban.

The signatories call on the EU executive, the European Commission, to "address the situation in Hungary forcefully" and brand Orban's move a "violation of the founding principles of liberal democracy and European values".

Under the emergency law, Orban has the power to rule by decree until his government decides the virus crisis is over.

It also threatens journalists with prison if they publish "falsehoods" about the virus or the government's actions to slow it.

The EPP is the biggest single voting bloc in the European Parliament and the party of both European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen and Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said Friday he has "no time" for scathing criticism by EU allies of sweeping powers he took on this week to tackle the coronavirus threat.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said Friday he has "no time" for scathing criticism by EU allies of sweeping powers he took on this week to tackle the coronavirus threat. Thirteen European centre-right parties urged their European Peoples Party (EPP) political group to expel Orban's Fidesz party after he assumed emergency powers on Monday. Orban insists he must rule by decree to tackle the spread of the new coronavirus pandemic. But many, including some of his allies in the EPP, accuse him of a power grab gone too far. "With all due respect I have no time for this," said Orban in a letter to EPP Secretary-General Antonio Lopez-Isturiz White posted on Twitter by one of his ministers Katalin Novak. "I can hardly imagine any of us having time for fantasies about the intentions of other countries. This seems to me to be a costly luxury these days," he wrote. "I am ready to discuss this once the pandemic is over," he added. The Scandinavian, Greek, Belgian, Lithuanian, Czech and Slovak conservatives, who signed Thursday's statement calling for Fidesz to be kicked out of the EPP, do not represent a majority of the group. But their letter strengthens the hand of party chairman Donald Tusk, the former Polish leader and president of the European Council, who is pushing the EPP to distance itself from Orban. The signatories call on the EU executive, the European Commission, to "address the situation in Hungary forcefully" and brand Orban's move a "violation of the founding principles of liberal democracy and European values". Under the emergency law, Orban has the power to rule by decree until his government decides the virus crisis is over. It also threatens journalists with prison if they publish "falsehoods" about the virus or the government's actions to slow it. The EPP is the biggest single voting bloc in the European Parliament and the party of both European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen and Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Hungary PM 'no time' for European Union allies' criticism

The European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced&nbsp;that EU is planning to spend&nbsp;€100 billion to stop firms in the European Union laying off staff during the coronavirus pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/will-coronavirus-crisis-cost-your-paycheck-employment-290233" hreflang="en">Will coronavirus crisis cost your paycheck, employment?</a>

Leyen&nbsp;said the scheme, called Sure, is&nbsp;an example of ''European solidarity in action'', following&nbsp;criticism of a lack of support by EU member states&nbsp;for those most affected by the spread of Covid-19, including Italy and Spain.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-more-than-900-deaths-in-spain-for-second-day-death-rate-slows-290385" hreflang="en">Coronavirus pandemic: More than 900 deaths in Spain for second day; death rate slows</a>

She is confident the 27 member states would back her scheme, describing the EU’s budget as the ''Marshall plan for the crisis,'' in reference to the post-second world war fund that rebuilt Europe.

Ursula also apologised to the Italian people for the bloc’s lack of solidarity.

The EU’s executive branch stated that it is also&nbsp;proposing to borrow from the international markets and make loans to member state governments to allow them to fund short-time working schemes, under which employees work reduced hours with some of their salary paid by the state.

Such schemes were used by the European countries to get there economies back on track after the 2008 Depression.

The European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that EU is planning to spend €100 billion to stop firms in the European Union laying off staff during the coronavirus pandemic.

The European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that EU is planning to spend €100 billion to stop firms in the European Union laying off staff during the coronavirus pandemic. Also read: Will coronavirus crisis cost your paycheck, employment? Leyen said the scheme, called Sure, is an example of ''European solidarity in action'', following criticism of a lack of support by EU member states for those most affected by the spread of Covid-19, including Italy and Spain. Also read: Coronavirus pandemic: More than 900 deaths in Spain for second day; death rate slows She is confident the 27 member states would back her scheme, describing the EU’s budget as the ''Marshall plan for the crisis,'' in reference to the post-second world war fund that rebuilt Europe. Ursula also apologised to the Italian people for the bloc’s lack of solidarity. The EU’s executive branch stated that it is also proposing to borrow from the international markets and make loans to member state governments to allow them to fund short-time working schemes, under which employees work reduced hours with some of their salary paid by the state. Such schemes were used by the European countries to get there economies back on track after the 2008 Depression.

EU proposes 'Sure plan' worth €100 billion to save jobs amid coronavirus crisis

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen expressed concern on Thursday over a coronavirus emergency law in Hungary that has given nationalist premier Viktor Orban sweeping powers.

While saying EU countries may need extraordinary measures to tackle the pandemic, she added: "I am concerned that certain measures go too far -- and I'm particularly concerned with the situation in Hungary."

Hungary's parliament, dominated by Orban's ruling party, handed the prime minister the power from Tuesday to rule by decree until his government decides the virus crisis is over.

The emergency law also threatens journalists with prison if they publish what it deems "falsehoods" about the virus or the government's actions to slow it.

The law has sparked alarm among rights groups, media organisations and several EU countries, with fears it was a power grab by Orban, who has ruled Hungary for the past decade.

Thirteen EU nations, including heavyweights France and Germany, issued a joint statement on Wednesday that -- without explicitly naming Hungary -- said they were "deeply concerned about the risk of violations of the principles of rule of law, democracy and fundamental rights arising from the adoption of certain emergency measures".

Von der Leyen up to now had been similarly circumspect, avoiding singling Hungary out by name. On Tuesday, she emphasised that coronavirus emergency measures in EU countries must be limited, proportionate and cannot last indefinitely.

EU threatens 'action'

As part of her response to questions on Thursday specifically on Hungary, von der Leyen said where measures do not meet those criteria "we will take action as necessary as we have already done in the past".

Her Commission, she added, was "mapping the whole situation" and weighing them against those standards.

Orban's government argues that it is upholding EU values and press freedom with the emergency law.

His spokesman for international relations tweeted on Wednesday that "the Hungarian state of emergency and extraordinary measures are congruent with the treaties and Hungarian constitution and targeted exclusively at fighting the coronavirus".

Orban, frequently in hot water with the Commission over his anti-EU stances, is worried about his Fidesz party remaining part of an EU-wide conservative political grouping, the European People's Party (EPP).

Orban contacted leading EPP figures -- including, in a letter obtained by AFP, the head of Germany's powerful CDU, Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer -- appealing for support, party figures said.

EPP head Donald Tusk, former president of the European Council representing EU leaders, has written his own letter to EPP member party chiefs calling Hungary's emergency measures "disproportionate and inadequate".

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen expressed concern on Thursday over a coronavirus emergency law in Hungary that has given nationalist premier Viktor Orban sweeping powers.

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen expressed concern on Thursday over a coronavirus emergency law in Hungary that has given nationalist premier Viktor Orban sweeping powers. While saying EU countries may need extraordinary measures to tackle the pandemic, she added: "I am concerned that certain measures go too far -- and I'm particularly concerned with the situation in Hungary." Hungary's parliament, dominated by Orban's ruling party, handed the prime minister the power from Tuesday to rule by decree until his government decides the virus crisis is over. The emergency law also threatens journalists with prison if they publish what it deems "falsehoods" about the virus or the government's actions to slow it. The law has sparked alarm among rights groups, media organisations and several EU countries, with fears it was a power grab by Orban, who has ruled Hungary for the past decade. Thirteen EU nations, including heavyweights France and Germany, issued a joint statement on Wednesday that -- without explicitly naming Hungary -- said they were "deeply concerned about the risk of violations of the principles of rule of law, democracy and fundamental rights arising from the adoption of certain emergency measures". Von der Leyen up to now had been similarly circumspect, avoiding singling Hungary out by name. On Tuesday, she emphasised that coronavirus emergency measures in EU countries must be limited, proportionate and cannot last indefinitely. EU threatens 'action' As part of her response to questions on Thursday specifically on Hungary, von der Leyen said where measures do not meet those criteria "we will take action as necessary as we have already done in the past". Her Commission, she added, was "mapping the whole situation" and weighing them against those standards. Orban's government argues that it is upholding EU values and press freedom with the emergency law. His spokesman for international relations tweeted on Wednesday that "the Hungarian state of emergency and extraordinary measures are congruent with the treaties and Hungarian constitution and targeted exclusively at fighting the coronavirus". Orban, frequently in hot water with the Commission over his anti-EU stances, is worried about his Fidesz party remaining part of an EU-wide conservative political grouping, the European People's Party (EPP). Orban contacted leading EPP figures -- including, in a letter obtained by AFP, the head of Germany's powerful CDU, Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer -- appealing for support, party figures said. EPP head Donald Tusk, former president of the European Council representing EU leaders, has written his own letter to EPP member party chiefs calling Hungary's emergency measures "disproportionate and inadequate".

EU chief 'concerned' about Hungary virus emergency law

The fast-growing death toll from coronavirus has crossed 21,000 in Europe, with hardest-hit Italy and Spain both reporting more than 800 deaths each in the past twenty-four hours.

Out of 30,847 lives lost worldwide, more than two-thirds of them have died in European countries where Italy has the highest number of fatalities with 10,023 deaths, followed by Spain that adds 832 new deaths today.

France reports 319 more deaths from the coronavirus pandemic over the last 24 hours, bringing the total death toll to 2314.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-goodwill-gesture-countries-hard-hit-by-covid-19-return-defective-protective-gear-sent-by-china-289279" hreflang="en">'A goodwill gesture?': Countries hard-hit by COVID-19 return defective protective gear sent by China</a>

The daily toll, while severe, is however lower than the 365 new deaths reported on Thursday this week.

The pandemic has also swept into the Scandinavian countries with over 12,000 positive cases and nearly 200 deaths.

Denmark and Norway closed their borders, restaurants and schools weeks ago but Sweden with its unorthodox approach still has its bars and restaurants open.

The death toll in Sweden has reached above 100.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-the-united-states-wasted-a-critical-window-of-opportunity-to-isolate-covid-19-289271">How the United States wasted a critical window of opportunity to isolate COVID-19</a>

Leaders this week have admitted locking horns over the financial fallout that has followed the COVID-19 outbreak.

The European Union is facing perhaps its biggest threat as the coronavirus pandemic exposes divisions among member states.

Italian prime minister Giuseppe Conte has warned that the European Union could lose its purpose if it fails to come up with a strong response to the coronavirus threat.

"I want to say that on this I will be inflexible. We are open to any kind of debate. But here we have a meeting with history. The European Union has to prove if it can rise up to the challenge that history is posing", Italian prime minister Giuseppe Conte.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-did-new-york-city-become-the-american-coronavirus-epicentre-289264" hreflang="en">How did New York City become the American coronavirus epicentre?</a>

Italy and Spain want the EU to start issuing "corona bonds", a form of common debt that governments sell on cheaper interest rates.

But the Netherlands and Germany are sceptical fearing their big spending southern neighbours will exploit the crisis to push for a pooling of eurozone government debts.

The President of the European Commission has begged the member countries to show solidarity&nbsp; but the crisis has only underlined existing divisions.

The fast-growing death toll from coronavirus has crossed 21,000 in Europe, with hardest-hit Italy and Spain both reporting more than 800 deaths each in the past twenty-four hours.

The fast-growing death toll from coronavirus has crossed 21,000 in Europe, with hardest-hit Italy and Spain both reporting more than 800 deaths each in the past twenty-four hours. Out of 30,847 lives lost worldwide, more than two-thirds of them have died in European countries where Italy has the highest number of fatalities with 10,023 deaths, followed by Spain that adds 832 new deaths today. France reports 319 more deaths from the coronavirus pandemic over the last 24 hours, bringing the total death toll to 2314. Also read: 'A goodwill gesture?': Countries hard-hit by COVID-19 return defective protective gear sent by China The daily toll, while severe, is however lower than the 365 new deaths reported on Thursday this week. The pandemic has also swept into the Scandinavian countries with over 12,000 positive cases and nearly 200 deaths. Denmark and Norway closed their borders, restaurants and schools weeks ago but Sweden with its unorthodox approach still has its bars and restaurants open. The death toll in Sweden has reached above 100. Also read: How the United States wasted a critical window of opportunity to isolate COVID-19 Leaders this week have admitted locking horns over the financial fallout that has followed the COVID-19 outbreak. The European Union is facing perhaps its biggest threat as the coronavirus pandemic exposes divisions among member states. Italian prime minister Giuseppe Conte has warned that the European Union could lose its purpose if it fails to come up with a strong response to the coronavirus threat. "I want to say that on this I will be inflexible. We are open to any kind of debate. But here we have a meeting with history. The European Union has to prove if it can rise up to the challenge that history is posing", Italian prime minister Giuseppe Conte. Also read: How did New York City become the American coronavirus epicentre? Italy and Spain want the EU to start issuing "corona bonds", a form of common debt that governments sell on cheaper interest rates. But the Netherlands and Germany are sceptical fearing their big spending southern neighbours will exploit the crisis to push for a pooling of eurozone government debts. The President of the European Commission has begged the member countries to show solidarity but the crisis has only underlined existing divisions.

Coronavirus outbreak threatens to destabilise the European Union as cracks start to show

Europe, the continent that is already in a financial crisis, is now under life support because of novel coronavirus with 305,851 cases, including 18,289 deaths.&nbsp;

Major industries, especially tourism have come to a halt. Experts fear that the real pain would begin once the outbreak ends. Take a look at this report.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-border-curbs-disrupt-european-union-food-supplies-industry-287413">Coronavirus border curbs disrupt European Union food supplies: Industry</a>

The European Union is already a divided group, with the member countries rarely agreeing on major issues. And the EU is failing to prevent an economic collapse, with most of the members suffering from the crisis.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-calls-for-european-unity-suggests-riskiest-weeks-ahead-286761">Italy calls for European unity, suggests 'riskiest weeks' ahead</a>

Yesterday, the leaders held a video conference and the finance ministers decided to meet after two weeks. Now, imagine, what could happen in two weeks when Italy today witnessed nearly 1,000 deaths.&nbsp;

Hospitals are overcrowded, morgues are full. There is no place to respectfully bury a body but self-interest becomes most important.&nbsp;

The European Central Bank came to the rescue with a fund worth 750 billion euros, but it was set aside. This could have a major consequence on Italy and Spain, who are severely hit by the outbreak.&nbsp;

If we look at the tourism sector, the European economy thrives on it.&nbsp;

However, the pandemic could keep tourists away from the continent for the rest of the year, leading to losses of nearly 12 billion euros. Italy alone could lose 7.4 billion euros from March to May.&nbsp;

The crisis has also hit the auto industry. Major factories were shut as critical imports couldn't be received from China.&nbsp;

Factories shut down to control the spread also added insult to the injury.&nbsp;

The automakers were already suffering from weak global demand and tough emission compliances.&nbsp;

The auto industry is at the heart of Europe's manufacturing sector, employing almost 14 million people.&nbsp;

The consulting sector, one of the most prosperous industry, was also badly hit by the COVID-19 outbreak.

After earning a record revenue of 45 billion dollars last year, nearly one-third of the total, losses worth 30 billion dollars could be seen by the end of 2020. &nbsp;

A 37 billion euros emergency fund was announced by the EU to support the industries majorly hit, but the associations argue that the compensation is not sufficient.&nbsp;

The situation looks grim in Europe and any recovery could take years. &nbsp;

Europe, the continent that is already in a financial crisis, is now under life support because of novel coronavirus with 305,851 cases, including 18,289 deaths. Major industries, especially tourism have come to a halt.

Europe, the continent that is already in a financial crisis, is now under life support because of novel coronavirus with 305,851 cases, including 18,289 deaths. Major industries, especially tourism have come to a halt. Experts fear that the real pain would begin once the outbreak ends. Take a look at this report. Also read | Coronavirus border curbs disrupt European Union food supplies: Industry The European Union is already a divided group, with the member countries rarely agreeing on major issues. And the EU is failing to prevent an economic collapse, with most of the members suffering from the crisis. Also read | Italy calls for European unity, suggests 'riskiest weeks' ahead Yesterday, the leaders held a video conference and the finance ministers decided to meet after two weeks. Now, imagine, what could happen in two weeks when Italy today witnessed nearly 1,000 deaths. Hospitals are overcrowded, morgues are full. There is no place to respectfully bury a body but self-interest becomes most important. The European Central Bank came to the rescue with a fund worth 750 billion euros, but it was set aside. This could have a major consequence on Italy and Spain, who are severely hit by the outbreak. If we look at the tourism sector, the European economy thrives on it. However, the pandemic could keep tourists away from the continent for the rest of the year, leading to losses of nearly 12 billion euros. Italy alone could lose 7.4 billion euros from March to May. The crisis has also hit the auto industry. Major factories were shut as critical imports couldn't be received from China. Factories shut down to control the spread also added insult to the injury. The automakers were already suffering from weak global demand and tough emission compliances. The auto industry is at the heart of Europe's manufacturing sector, employing almost 14 million people. The consulting sector, one of the most prosperous industry, was also badly hit by the COVID-19 outbreak. After earning a record revenue of 45 billion dollars last year, nearly one-third of the total, losses worth 30 billion dollars could be seen by the end of 2020. A 37 billion euros emergency fund was announced by the EU to support the industries majorly hit, but the associations argue that the compensation is not sufficient. The situation looks grim in Europe and any recovery could take years.

Already in ICU, Europe awaits major crisis once coronavirus ends

India has suspended all international flights till March 31. Meanwhile, the United States has invoked the Wartime Defence Production act to speed up the production of masks. WION's Palki Sharma brings you the big developments on the coronavirus outbreak for Thursday.

Gravitas: Top 10 headlines for Thursday | Wuhan Coronavirus

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte called Friday for the European Union to tap the "full firepower" of its rescue fund to combat the coronavirus outbreak.

In an interview, Conte urged the EU to adapt its European Stability Mechanism (ESM), the war chest for eurozone countries with serious debt problems to fight the COVID-19 pandemic in the bloc.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-italy-death-toll-reaches-3405-overtaking-china-287455">Coronavirus: Italy death toll reaches 3,405, overtaking China</a>

"The ESM was crafted with a different type of crisis in mind, so it must be adapted to the new circumstances so that we can make use of its full firepower," Conte said.

"The route to follow is to open ESM credit lines to all member states to help them fight the consequences of the COVID-19 epidemic, under the condition of full accountability by each member state on the way resources are spent."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-distancing-italians-from-their-beloved-coffee-286276">Coronavirus distancing Italians from their beloved coffee</a>

The Italian premier had Thursday welcomed the European Central Bank's massive 750-billion-euro bond-buying stimulus package designed to help virus-wracked economies.

The ECB's emergency $820-billion scheme will pump cash into the economy by buying additional government and corporate bonds until a least the end of the year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-border-curbs-disrupt-european-union-food-supplies-industry-287413">Coronavirus border curbs disrupt European Union food supplies: Industry</a>

Italy on Thursday overtook China's coronavirus death total and braced for an extended lockdown that could see the economy suffer its biggest shock since World War II.

The Mediterranean country's toll reached 3,405 after it recorded 427 new deaths on Wednesday.

"We are confronted with an exogenous, global shock that has no precedents in modern history," Conte added.

"And as political leaders, we are called to make necessary, bold, yet tragic choices."

French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said separately Friday that the EU must stand by Italy otherwise all member states would suffer.&nbsp;

It could not be a case of "everyone for themselves," it had to be all working together to get through the crisis, Le Maire added. &nbsp;

Italy shut down most businesses on March 11 to fight the deadly outbreak.

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte called Friday for the European Union to tap the "full firepower" of its rescue fund to combat the coronavirus outbreak. In an interview, Conte urged the EU to adapt its European Stability Mechanism (ESM), the war chest for eurozone countries with serious debt problems to fight the COVID-19 pandemic in the bloc.

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte called Friday for the European Union to tap the "full firepower" of its rescue fund to combat the coronavirus outbreak. In an interview, Conte urged the EU to adapt its European Stability Mechanism (ESM), the war chest for eurozone countries with serious debt problems to fight the COVID-19 pandemic in the bloc. Also read: Coronavirus: Italy death toll reaches 3,405, overtaking China "The ESM was crafted with a different type of crisis in mind, so it must be adapted to the new circumstances so that we can make use of its full firepower," Conte said. "The route to follow is to open ESM credit lines to all member states to help them fight the consequences of the COVID-19 epidemic, under the condition of full accountability by each member state on the way resources are spent." Also read: Coronavirus distancing Italians from their beloved coffee The Italian premier had Thursday welcomed the European Central Bank's massive 750-billion-euro bond-buying stimulus package designed to help virus-wracked economies. The ECB's emergency $820-billion scheme will pump cash into the economy by buying additional government and corporate bonds until a least the end of the year. Also read: Coronavirus border curbs disrupt European Union food supplies: Industry Italy on Thursday overtook China's coronavirus death total and braced for an extended lockdown that could see the economy suffer its biggest shock since World War II. The Mediterranean country's toll reached 3,405 after it recorded 427 new deaths on Wednesday. "We are confronted with an exogenous, global shock that has no precedents in modern history," Conte added. "And as political leaders, we are called to make necessary, bold, yet tragic choices." French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said separately Friday that the EU must stand by Italy otherwise all member states would suffer. It could not be a case of "everyone for themselves," it had to be all working together to get through the crisis, Le Maire added. Italy shut down most businesses on March 11 to fight the deadly outbreak.

Italian Prime Minister Conte calls for EU's 'full firepower' to combat virus

The novel coronavirus is spreading in India and presently it has taken lives of 4. The Indian Health Ministry briefed the media on steps that the Indian government is taking to contain the spread of the virus. Watch report:

Novel coronavirus is highly contagious, says Indian Health Ministry

Is the coronavirus vaccine insight? More than 80,000 people have recovered so far from COVID-19. What were they administered and which medicines are working. Watch WION report:

WION Dispatch: 35 agencies are working to develop coronavirus vaccine

India is at a crucial stage in the outbreak of novel coronavirus. The virus has been spreading from individuals who have been abroad. This is called stage 2. Community transmission of stage 3 has not been reported yet. Watch WION's report on how the country is battling the coronavirus.

Amid Coronavirus outbreak Indian HRD Ministry postpones all exams

In an unprecedented move to seal its border, the European Union has banned travellers from outside the block for 30 days to deal with the coronavirus outbreak. The measure will apply to all 26 EU states. To know more watch the video.

Coronavirus Outbreak: European Unions seals its borders

Europe is now the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic. Case counts and deaths are soaring in Italy, Spain, France, and Germany, and many countries have imposed lockdowns and closed borders. However, the cases in South Korea have dropped at a faster rate.

Your Story: Sharp drop in COVID-19 cases in South Korea, 93 new cases

In an unprecedented move to seal its borders, the European Union has now banned travelers from outside the block for 30 days to deal with the coronavirus outbreak. The measure will apply to all 26 EU states as well as Ice Land, Norway, and Switzerland. Watch report:

Coronavirus: Belgium imposes a complete lockdown, EU seals its borders

Britain has been criticized for not acting fast enough to contain the coronavirus but a British study has now upended the country's scenario. The projection study has predicted 22 lakh coronavirus deaths in the US and 5 lakh deaths in the UK. Watch report:

COVID-19 study predicts 22 lakhs deaths in US, 5 lakh deaths in UK

The European Union is likely to impose a 30-day travel ban. Meanwhile, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has hinted at postponing the Olympics. Palki Sharma gets you the top updates on the Coronavirus outbreak for Tuesday.

Gravitas: Wuhan coronavirus, The top updates for Tuesday

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte warned Monday that his country was entering "the riskiest weeks" and urged a coordinated European response to the coronavirus pandemic.

"European coordination on health and economic measures is needed," Conte told the Corriere Della Sera newspaper ahead of a planned videoconference Monday between Group of Seven (G7) leaders.

"It is time for courageous choices and Italy can offer a significant contribution as the country that was the first in Europe to have experienced such a widespread of the virus," he said.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-unveils-28-billion-coronavirus-rescue-plan-285707">Italy unveils $28 billion coronavirus rescue plan</a>

Italy was the first EU member state to shutter schools and almost all businesses to try to slow a global pandemic that has killed 1,809 people in the Mediterranean country since last month.

It has recorded more than half the deaths officially reported outside China.

Conte said "no new prohibitions are needed" but urged everyone to stay home as much as possible and only venture outside alone.

"Scientists tell us that we have not yet reached a peak. These are the riskiest weeks and we need the utmost precaution," said Conte.

Italy is facing two simultaneous threats to its healthcare system.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-witnesses-highest-one-day-toll-with-368-new-deaths-286561">Italy witnesses highest one-day toll with 368 new deaths</a>

World-class hospitals in the richer north where the overwhelming majority of the deaths and infections have been reported are running out of beds and relying on overstretched staff.

But Conte fears that medical centres in the poorer south which have largely avoided contagion will be unable to cope should it be hit just as hard.

"We can no longer afford behavioural errors," said Conte.

"Things like people leaving Milan on weekends to spend time with their family or at their residences in the south must absolutely stop."

The virus "is our most important challenge of the past decades," Conte said.

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte warned Monday that his country was entering "the riskiest weeks" and urged a coordinated European response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte warned Monday that his country was entering "the riskiest weeks" and urged a coordinated European response to the coronavirus pandemic. "European coordination on health and economic measures is needed," Conte told the Corriere Della Sera newspaper ahead of a planned videoconference Monday between Group of Seven (G7) leaders. "It is time for courageous choices and Italy can offer a significant contribution as the country that was the first in Europe to have experienced such a widespread of the virus," he said. Also Read: Italy unveils $28 billion coronavirus rescue plan Italy was the first EU member state to shutter schools and almost all businesses to try to slow a global pandemic that has killed 1,809 people in the Mediterranean country since last month. It has recorded more than half the deaths officially reported outside China. Conte said "no new prohibitions are needed" but urged everyone to stay home as much as possible and only venture outside alone. "Scientists tell us that we have not yet reached a peak. These are the riskiest weeks and we need the utmost precaution," said Conte. Italy is facing two simultaneous threats to its healthcare system. Also Read: Italy witnesses highest one-day toll with 368 new deaths World-class hospitals in the richer north where the overwhelming majority of the deaths and infections have been reported are running out of beds and relying on overstretched staff. But Conte fears that medical centres in the poorer south which have largely avoided contagion will be unable to cope should it be hit just as hard. "We can no longer afford behavioural errors," said Conte. "Things like people leaving Milan on weekends to spend time with their family or at their residences in the south must absolutely stop." The virus "is our most important challenge of the past decades," Conte said.

Italy calls for European unity, suggests 'riskiest weeks' ahead

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