European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen said that the island of Ireland cannot have any hard border and that any solution reached must ensure the smooth functioning of the single market.&nbsp; 
 
"Ireland can always count on the EU to stand by the Good Friday Agreement, there can be no hard border on the island of Ireland," the EC president stated on Thursday, on her visit to the Irish parliament in Dublin to mark the completion of 50 years of Ireland's membership of the European Union (EU).&nbsp;

"Joining the EU has unleashed Ireland's&nbsp;immense potential and has profoundly transformed this country," Ursula von der Leyen said. The EC president further expressed her confidence in reaching a positive conclusion over Northern Ireland's post-Brexit trade issue if Britain is willing to reach a solution.&nbsp;

She had encouraging talks with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and added that a workable solution appeared to be within reach.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-the-northern-ireland-protocol-divides-britain-and-the-european-union-487135">How the Northern Ireland protocol divides Britain and the European Union</a>

The EC president said that the GDP of Ireland has increased from half to double the EU average after it became a part of the bloc and added that Ireland will need Europe's help to become non-reliant on Russian energy.&nbsp;

She called Ireland "a wind energy superpower", and added that it "can become a net exporter of energy" to help the EU replace Russian fuel, Xinhua news agency reported.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-northern-ireland-deadlock-uk-pm-sunak-to-meet-irelands-martin-532994">Breaking Northern Ireland deadlock: UK PM Sunak to meet Ireland's Martin</a>

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Before addressing the parliament, Von der Leyen held talks with Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin. The two leaders talked about the EU's current agenda, which included the need to strengthen the partnership of the EU with allies like the UK and the US.

Technical talks over the Northern Ireland Protocol, which makes checks on few goods being transported to Northern Ireland from the remaining United Kingdom mandatory, resumed earlier in October after seven months of silence.&nbsp;

"We have always shown flexibility, we will always have a constructive approach to these issues," said the EC president before meeting Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin in Dublin. "If there is the political will in the UK, I am very confident that we can reach a positive conclusion," she added.&nbsp;

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European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen said that the island of Ireland cannot have any hard border and that any solution reached must ensure the smooth functioning of the single market.

European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen said that the island of Ireland cannot have any hard border and that any solution reached must ensure the smooth functioning of the single market. "Ireland can always count on the EU to stand by the Good Friday Agreement, there can be no hard border on the island of Ireland," the EC president stated on Thursday, on her visit to the Irish parliament in Dublin to mark the completion of 50 years of Ireland's membership of the European Union (EU). "Joining the EU has unleashed Ireland's immense potential and has profoundly transformed this country," Ursula von der Leyen said. The EC president further expressed her confidence in reaching a positive conclusion over Northern Ireland's post-Brexit trade issue if Britain is willing to reach a solution. She had encouraging talks with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and added that a workable solution appeared to be within reach. ALSO READ | How the Northern Ireland protocol divides Britain and the European Union The EC president said that the GDP of Ireland has increased from half to double the EU average after it became a part of the bloc and added that Ireland will need Europe's help to become non-reliant on Russian energy. She called Ireland "a wind energy superpower", and added that it "can become a net exporter of energy" to help the EU replace Russian fuel, Xinhua news agency reported. WATCH | Breaking Northern Ireland deadlock: UK PM Sunak to meet Ireland's Martin × Before addressing the parliament, Von der Leyen held talks with Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin. The two leaders talked about the EU's current agenda, which included the need to strengthen the partnership of the EU with allies like the UK and the US. Technical talks over the Northern Ireland Protocol, which makes checks on few goods being transported to Northern Ireland from the remaining United Kingdom mandatory, resumed earlier in October after seven months of silence. "We have always shown flexibility, we will always have a constructive approach to these issues," said the EC president before meeting Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin in Dublin. "If there is the political will in the UK, I am very confident that we can reach a positive conclusion," she added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ireland can always count on EU to stand by the Good Friday Agreement: EC president

Vowing unfaltering backing for Ukraine during her visit to Kyiv, EU chief Ursula von der Leyen said in an interview that she wants Russian President Vladimir Putin to face the International Criminal Court over war crimes.

During a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, she said "We will never be able to match the sacrifice that the Ukrainians are making."

Highlighting that her discussions with the country's leaders would be about "getting our economies and people closer," Von der Leyen said Putin must face the consequences of his actions.

The bloc's chief added that Europeans must keep their resolve against Moscow and that the successive waves of EU sanctions against Russia would remain.

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Ahead of a decision on whether to grant Kyiv full EU membership, Zelensky told the same press conference that his country wants to join the European single market.

Since Moscow invaded in February, EU countries have staunchly supported Ukraine by hitting Russia with economic penalties.&nbsp;

With the help of the advanced weapons that European countries have supplied to Ukrainian forces in recent weeks, they have recaptured swathes of territory.

Saying Berlin will provide armoured vehicles and rocket launch systems but not the battle tanks sought by Ukraine, Germany's defence minister pledged more weapons on Thursday.

Denying any significant impact of European sanctions, the Kremlin maintains that Russia has weathered the economic penalties.

In retaliation, it has reduced gas flows to European countries forcing them to find an alternative source of gas supply. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Vowing unfaltering backing for Ukraine during her visit to Kyiv, EU chief Ursula von der Leyen said in an interview that she wants Russian President Vladimir Putin to face the International Criminal Court over war crimes.

Vowing unfaltering backing for Ukraine during her visit to Kyiv, EU chief Ursula von der Leyen said in an interview that she wants Russian President Vladimir Putin to face the International Criminal Court over war crimes. During a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, she said "We will never be able to match the sacrifice that the Ukrainians are making." Highlighting that her discussions with the country's leaders would be about "getting our economies and people closer," Von der Leyen said Putin must face the consequences of his actions. The bloc's chief added that Europeans must keep their resolve against Moscow and that the successive waves of EU sanctions against Russia would remain. × Ahead of a decision on whether to grant Kyiv full EU membership, Zelensky told the same press conference that his country wants to join the European single market. Since Moscow invaded in February, EU countries have staunchly supported Ukraine by hitting Russia with economic penalties. With the help of the advanced weapons that European countries have supplied to Ukrainian forces in recent weeks, they have recaptured swathes of territory. Saying Berlin will provide armoured vehicles and rocket launch systems but not the battle tanks sought by Ukraine, Germany's defence minister pledged more weapons on Thursday. Denying any significant impact of European sanctions, the Kremlin maintains that Russia has weathered the economic penalties. In retaliation, it has reduced gas flows to European countries forcing them to find an alternative source of gas supply. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Putin must lose Ukraine war, face International Criminal Court for crimes, says EU chief

Ursula von der Leyen, the head of the European Union (EU), has called for reductions in electricity consumption across the union and windfall taxes on energy companies to combat excessive prices.&nbsp;

She informed the European Parliament that following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, gas and energy prices had reached all-time highs. She demanded a minimum five per cent reduction in electricity use during peak hours.&nbsp;

However, proposals to control the cost of natural gas, a significant Russian export to the EU, were postponed.&nbsp;

The Strasbourg plan calls for skimming off low-carbon electricity companies' earnings and enacting a de facto windfall tax on the oil, gas, and coal industries in order to raise "excess revenues."

The estimated €140 billion (£121 billion; $141 billion) in funds would benefit individuals and companies in all 27 member nations of the European Union.&nbsp;

In the hopes of reaching a consensus by the end of this month, the EU's member states will carefully consider the ideas.&nbsp;

Leyen's who will be reach Ukraine on Wednesday on her second visit said,&nbsp;"Europe's solidarity with Ukraine will remain unshakeable."&nbsp;

Olena Zelensky, the wife of &nbsp;Volodymyr&nbsp;Zelensky, attended the address in the legislature as a special guest.

Making ends meet was "becoming a source of anxiety for millions of businesses and households," according to Ms. von der Leyen.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/juxtapose-dramatic-expansion-of-bahrain-by-building-land-on-sea-1987-vs-2022-515720">Before and after images show dramatic expansion of Bahrain by building land on sea: 1987 vs 2022</a>

She stated that it was unfair to benefit from the war and reap remarkable record profits in these troubled times.&nbsp;

Since June, Ukraine has been formally applying to join the EU. It recently launched a counteroffensive to push back Russian forces, and this month, it reportedly reclaimed thousands of square kilometers of terrain in the east and south.

Russia, a major provider of energy, and the EU, which imposed severe sanctions in response to the invasion, are engaged in a financial war.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Ursula von der Leyen, the head of the European Union (EU), has called for reductions in electricity consumption across the union and windfall taxes on energy companies to combat excessive prices.

Ursula von der Leyen, the head of the European Union (EU), has called for reductions in electricity consumption across the union and windfall taxes on energy companies to combat excessive prices. She informed the European Parliament that following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, gas and energy prices had reached all-time highs. She demanded a minimum five per cent reduction in electricity use during peak hours. However, proposals to control the cost of natural gas, a significant Russian export to the EU, were postponed. The Strasbourg plan calls for skimming off low-carbon electricity companies' earnings and enacting a de facto windfall tax on the oil, gas, and coal industries in order to raise "excess revenues." The estimated €140 billion (£121 billion; $141 billion) in funds would benefit individuals and companies in all 27 member nations of the European Union. In the hopes of reaching a consensus by the end of this month, the EU's member states will carefully consider the ideas. Leyen's who will be reach Ukraine on Wednesday on her second visit said, "Europe's solidarity with Ukraine will remain unshakeable." Olena Zelensky, the wife of Volodymyr Zelensky, attended the address in the legislature as a special guest. Making ends meet was "becoming a source of anxiety for millions of businesses and households," according to Ms. von der Leyen. Also Read: Before and after images show dramatic expansion of Bahrain by building land on sea: 1987 vs 2022 She stated that it was unfair to benefit from the war and reap remarkable record profits in these troubled times. Since June, Ukraine has been formally applying to join the EU. It recently launched a counteroffensive to push back Russian forces, and this month, it reportedly reclaimed thousands of square kilometers of terrain in the east and south. Russia, a major provider of energy, and the EU, which imposed severe sanctions in response to the invasion, are engaged in a financial war. (with inputs from agencies)

EU chief calls for curbing electricity use, windfall taxes on energy firms to tackle high prices

Aiming at ensuring electricity prices reflect cheaper renewable energy, the &nbsp;European Union is preparing an emergency plan to separate power prices from the soaring cost of gas.

In order to discuss how to ease the burden of soaring energy prices on businesses and households, energy ministers from the bloc will meet on September 9.

Driven by record gas prices as Russia curbed supply to Europe, European power costs have surged in the last year.

Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the West imposed crippling sanctions on Moscow and in retaliation Kremlin cut the gas supply of several members of the bloc.

Following cuts imposed by Russia, gas prices have soared as they are determined by global competition for the fuel.

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Racing to find a short-term solution, the 27 members of the European Union are considering energy market reforms.

With the cheapest sources coming in first, gas plants in Europe set the wholesale electricity price by the last power plant needed to meet overall demand.&nbsp;

To incentivise more investment in renewable generation, the cheaper renewables generators end up with a bigger profit margin.

Resulting in cheap renewable energy being sold to consumers for the same price as costlier fossil fuel-based power, Spain said the system is unfair.

Highlighting the EU needed to decouple the price of gas and power, Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said that severe drought in the continent has hampered hydropower output and affected coal deliveries.

Rallying support for a cap on the price of gas used to generate electricity, the Czech Republic said it has received support from France to separate the price of electricity from the price of gas.

According to Italy, EU countries should agree on a cap on the price of gas imported from Russia or pay gas companies the difference between the capped price and the higher market price.

Saying it would effectively subsidise fossil fuel generation with public funds that they said would be better spent on the shift to cheaper clean energy, Germany and the Netherlands pointed out other options that could include restricting financial speculators' participation in gas markets.

Rather than a hasty market overhaul, the bloc can target financial support for low-income households and businesses hit hardest by the soaring prices, according to analysts.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Aiming at ensuring electricity prices reflect cheaper renewable energy, the European Union is preparing an emergency plan to separate power prices from the soaring cost of gas.

Aiming at ensuring electricity prices reflect cheaper renewable energy, the European Union is preparing an emergency plan to separate power prices from the soaring cost of gas. In order to discuss how to ease the burden of soaring energy prices on businesses and households, energy ministers from the bloc will meet on September 9. Driven by record gas prices as Russia curbed supply to Europe, European power costs have surged in the last year. Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the West imposed crippling sanctions on Moscow and in retaliation Kremlin cut the gas supply of several members of the bloc. Following cuts imposed by Russia, gas prices have soared as they are determined by global competition for the fuel. × Racing to find a short-term solution, the 27 members of the European Union are considering energy market reforms. With the cheapest sources coming in first, gas plants in Europe set the wholesale electricity price by the last power plant needed to meet overall demand. To incentivise more investment in renewable generation, the cheaper renewables generators end up with a bigger profit margin. Resulting in cheap renewable energy being sold to consumers for the same price as costlier fossil fuel-based power, Spain said the system is unfair. Highlighting the EU needed to decouple the price of gas and power, Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said that severe drought in the continent has hampered hydropower output and affected coal deliveries. Rallying support for a cap on the price of gas used to generate electricity, the Czech Republic said it has received support from France to separate the price of electricity from the price of gas. According to Italy, EU countries should agree on a cap on the price of gas imported from Russia or pay gas companies the difference between the capped price and the higher market price. Saying it would effectively subsidise fossil fuel generation with public funds that they said would be better spent on the shift to cheaper clean energy, Germany and the Netherlands pointed out other options that could include restricting financial speculators' participation in gas markets. Rather than a hasty market overhaul, the bloc can target financial support for low-income households and businesses hit hardest by the soaring prices, according to analysts. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Why is Europe considering energy market reforms?

The European Union Chief Ursula Von Der Leyen addressed Ukraine's parliament after granting candidate status to the country. During her address, she said that Ukraine has came a long way since 2014 and is fighting bravely against Russia.

EU Chief addresses Ukraine's parliament after granting candidate status

European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen is on a visit to Ukraine. Her&nbsp;executive will finalise "by the end of next week" its opinion on whether Ukraine should be a candidate country to join the EU.

During her visit, she&nbsp;told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;"The discussions today will enable us to finalise our assessment by the end of next week."

According to Leyen, the ''European Commission is working day and night&nbsp;on an assessment of Ukraine's eligibility as a possible candidate for EU membership.''

Describing the war as just a "first stage" in Moscow's plans,&nbsp;Zelensky said&nbsp;Russia "wants to divide and&nbsp;weaken Europe."&nbsp;

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🇺🇦 Good to be back in Kyiv. 
 
With President <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZelenskyyUa</a> I will take stock of the joint work needed for reconstruction and of the progress made by Ukraine on its European path. 
 
Європа з вами! <a href="https://t.co/JqtXvgamkV">pic.twitter.com/JqtXvgamkV</a>
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1535539854334885888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Although officials and leaders in the bloc have cautioned that the road to membership is a long one, Kyiv has been pushing for rapid admission into the European Union.

After Russia's invasion exposed Ukraine's geopolitical vulnerability, it has been trying to join the bloc.

According to Leyen, the discussions with Zelensky "will feed into our assessment" of Ukraine's readiness to be considered a candidate country to begin lengthy negotiations.

Ahead of a June 23-24 summit, EU commissioners and officials are expected to pore over Ukraine's bid next week.

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During her previous visit to Kyiv since Russia's invasion, Von der Leyen said "Ukraine belongs to the European family".&nbsp;

She had represented the EU's 27 member states and handed out Zelensky a questionnaire his officials needed to fill out to provide details that would help inform the European Commission.

Expressing wariness about giving Ukraine a speeded-up candidacy process, some EU countries have pointed out the fact that other countries such as North Macedonia and Albania were already further along the candidacy path.

(With inputs from agencies)

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European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen is on a visit to Ukraine. Her executive will finalise "by the end of next week" its opinion on whether Ukraine should be a candidate country to join the EU.

European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen is on a visit to Ukraine. Her executive will finalise "by the end of next week" its opinion on whether Ukraine should be a candidate country to join the EU. During her visit, she told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky "The discussions today will enable us to finalise our assessment by the end of next week." According to Leyen, the ''European Commission is working day and night on an assessment of Ukraine's eligibility as a possible candidate for EU membership.'' Describing the war as just a "first stage" in Moscow's plans, Zelensky said Russia "wants to divide and weaken Europe." 🇺🇦 Good to be back in Kyiv. With President @ZelenskyyUa I will take stock of the joint work needed for reconstruction and of the progress made by Ukraine on its European path. Європа з вами! pic.twitter.com/JqtXvgamkV — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) June 11, 2022 × Although officials and leaders in the bloc have cautioned that the road to membership is a long one, Kyiv has been pushing for rapid admission into the European Union. After Russia's invasion exposed Ukraine's geopolitical vulnerability, it has been trying to join the bloc. According to Leyen, the discussions with Zelensky "will feed into our assessment" of Ukraine's readiness to be considered a candidate country to begin lengthy negotiations. Ahead of a June 23-24 summit, EU commissioners and officials are expected to pore over Ukraine's bid next week. During her previous visit to Kyiv since Russia's invasion, Von der Leyen said "Ukraine belongs to the European family". She had represented the EU's 27 member states and handed out Zelensky a questionnaire his officials needed to fill out to provide details that would help inform the European Commission. Expressing wariness about giving Ukraine a speeded-up candidacy process, some EU countries have pointed out the fact that other countries such as North Macedonia and Albania were already further along the candidacy path. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ursula von der Leyen says EU will finalise advice 'next week' on Ukraine's hopes to join bloc

On Friday (June 10), European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met with Pope Francis at the Vatican, where they discussed the Ukraine problem. "We stand with those suffering from the catastrophe in Ukraine," von der Leyen wrote after the meeting, posting a photo of the two. This war must come to an end, restoring peace to Europe."

EU chief meets Pope Francis in the Vatican, discusses Ukraine

In a special address at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2022, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen denounced Russian aggression and its use of food supplies as a war weapon.

EU President Von Der Leyen says Russia is using food supplies as war weapon

The long-awaited evacuation of civilians from a besieged steel plant in Mariupol, Ukraine, began, with US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi stating that she had spoken with Ukraine's president to emphasise unflinching US support for the country's defence against Russia's invasion.

Elderly ladies and mothers with little children were supported as they climbed a steep mound of wreckage from the massive Azovstal steel plant's collapse and boarded a bus, according to a video uploaded online by Ukrainian forces.

According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, more than 100 civilians, including women and children, are expected to arrive in the Ukrainian-controlled city of Zaporizhzhia on Monday.

"Today, for the first time in all the days of the war, this vitally needed (humanitarian) corridor has started working," he said in a pre-recorded address published on his Telegram messaging app channel.

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<h5>The Azovstal steel complex came under fire after some civilians were evacuated, according to a Ukrainian soldier. It's estimated that hundreds of Ukrainian civilians are still trapped in the ruins of the plant.</h5>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-to-undergo-cancer-operation-and-hand-power-to-hardline-ex-spy-chief-kremlin-insider-475582">Also read | Putin to undergo cancer operation and hand power to hardline ex-spy chief: Kremlin insider</a> 
 
The Mariupol City Council announced on Telegram that inhabitants from other parts of the city would be evacuated beginning Monday morning.&nbsp;

People fleeing Russian-occupied territories have previously reported their vehicles being shot at, and Ukrainian officials have regularly accused Russian soldiers of shelling agreed-upon evacuation routes.

Because of its strategic location near the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia captured from Ukraine in 2014, Mariupol, a port city on the Sea of Azov, is a vital target.

Civilians who have been stranded inside the plant for nearly two months will receive immediate humanitarian assistance, including psychological treatment, once they reach in Zaporizhzhia, around 140 miles (230 kilometres) northwest of Mariupol, according to UN humanitarian spokesperson Saviano Abreu.

Mariupol has witnessed some of the most heinous atrocities. In the early stages of the war, a devastating Russian airstrike damaged a maternity hospital, and over 300 people were allegedly murdered when a theatre where civilians were taking shelter was bombed.

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The long-awaited evacuation of civilians from a besieged steel plant in Mariupol, Ukraine, began, with US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi stating that she had spoken with Ukraine's president to emphasise unflinching US support for the country's defence against Russia's invasion.

The long-awaited evacuation of civilians from a besieged steel plant in Mariupol, Ukraine, began, with US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi stating that she had spoken with Ukraine's president to emphasise unflinching US support for the country's defence against Russia's invasion. Elderly ladies and mothers with little children were supported as they climbed a steep mound of wreckage from the massive Azovstal steel plant's collapse and boarded a bus, according to a video uploaded online by Ukrainian forces. According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, more than 100 civilians, including women and children, are expected to arrive in the Ukrainian-controlled city of Zaporizhzhia on Monday. "Today, for the first time in all the days of the war, this vitally needed (humanitarian) corridor has started working," he said in a pre-recorded address published on his Telegram messaging app channel. The Azovstal steel complex came under fire after some civilians were evacuated, according to a Ukrainian soldier. It's estimated that hundreds of Ukrainian civilians are still trapped in the ruins of the plant. × Also read | Putin to undergo cancer operation and hand power to hardline ex-spy chief: Kremlin insider The Mariupol City Council announced on Telegram that inhabitants from other parts of the city would be evacuated beginning Monday morning. People fleeing Russian-occupied territories have previously reported their vehicles being shot at, and Ukrainian officials have regularly accused Russian soldiers of shelling agreed-upon evacuation routes. Because of its strategic location near the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia captured from Ukraine in 2014, Mariupol, a port city on the Sea of Azov, is a vital target. Civilians who have been stranded inside the plant for nearly two months will receive immediate humanitarian assistance, including psychological treatment, once they reach in Zaporizhzhia, around 140 miles (230 kilometres) northwest of Mariupol, according to UN humanitarian spokesperson Saviano Abreu. Mariupol has witnessed some of the most heinous atrocities. In the early stages of the war, a devastating Russian airstrike damaged a maternity hospital, and over 300 people were allegedly murdered when a theatre where civilians were taking shelter was bombed. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Evacuations under way at steel plant in Mariupol

The European Union is going to phase out Russian oil imports due to its invasions of Ukraine, sources told the news agency AFP.

One official told AFP on condition of anonymity, "We must be very attentive to market reactions."&nbsp;

"There are solutions and we will get there in the end, but we must act with great care," the official said.

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Currently, the 27-nation bloc is preparing the text of the sanctions and it will implement the ban in phases to give countries time to diversify their supply in six to eight months.

It comes after the European Commission's President Ursula von der Leyen vowed a ''coordinated'' response against Russia.

Previously, Russian gas giant Gazprom had stopped its supply to Poland and Bulgaria after they refused to pay the company in roubles.

EU is banking on a new pipeline called the Gas Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria which will carry 3 billion cubic meters of gas per year.

The pipeline, worth 240 million euros ($250 million), is due to start commercial operation in June.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-is-redrawing-blocs-energy-map-to-overcome-its-reliance-on-russia-474904">Also read |&nbsp;European Union is redrawing bloc's energy map to overcome its reliance on Russia</a>

Europe’s largest economy, Germany has said that it is making progress on weaning itself off Russian fossil fuels.

Expecting to be fully independent of Russian crude oil imports by late summer, it has already reduced its share of Russian energy imports to 12 per cent for oil, 8 per cent for coal, and 35 per cent for natural gas.

According to Germany's Economy and Climate Minister Robert Habeck, “All these steps that we are taking require an enormous joint effort from all actors and they also mean costs that are felt by both the economy and consumers.”&nbsp;

“But they are necessary if we no longer want to be blackmailed by Russia,” Habeck added.

Watch WION's live TV:

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(With inputs from agencies)

The European Union is going to phase out Russian oil imports due to its invasions of Ukraine, sources told the news agency AFP. One official told AFP on condition of anonymity, "We must be very attentive to market reactions.

The European Union is going to phase out Russian oil imports due to its invasions of Ukraine, sources told the news agency AFP. One official told AFP on condition of anonymity, "We must be very attentive to market reactions." "There are solutions and we will get there in the end, but we must act with great care," the official said. Currently, the 27-nation bloc is preparing the text of the sanctions and it will implement the ban in phases to give countries time to diversify their supply in six to eight months. It comes after the European Commission's President Ursula von der Leyen vowed a ''coordinated'' response against Russia. Previously, Russian gas giant Gazprom had stopped its supply to Poland and Bulgaria after they refused to pay the company in roubles. EU is banking on a new pipeline called the Gas Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria which will carry 3 billion cubic meters of gas per year. The pipeline, worth 240 million euros ($250 million), is due to start commercial operation in June. Also read | European Union is redrawing bloc's energy map to overcome its reliance on Russia Europe’s largest economy, Germany has said that it is making progress on weaning itself off Russian fossil fuels. Expecting to be fully independent of Russian crude oil imports by late summer, it has already reduced its share of Russian energy imports to 12 per cent for oil, 8 per cent for coal, and 35 per cent for natural gas. According to Germany's Economy and Climate Minister Robert Habeck, “All these steps that we are taking require an enormous joint effort from all actors and they also mean costs that are felt by both the economy and consumers.” “But they are necessary if we no longer want to be blackmailed by Russia,” Habeck added. Watch WION's live TV: (With inputs from agencies)

In new wave of sanctions, European Union to phase out Russian oil: Report

Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission President, on Wednesday (April 27) vowed that the bloc will give Russia a ''coordinated response'' after it blocked gas supply to its members Poland and Bulgaria.

Calling Russian gas giant Gazprom's announcement "unjustified and unacceptable", Leyen said it was ''yet another attempt by Russia to use gas as an instrument of blackmail.''

However, Gazprom said it made the decision after Poland and Bulgaria failed to make their payments for gas in roubles.

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According to Von der Leyen, “Member States have put in place contingency plans for just such a scenario and we worked with them in coordination and solidarity.”

“We are mapping out our coordinated EU response. We will also continue working with international partners to secure alternative flows,” she told the news agency Reuters.

Officials of the EU are holding emergency talks after Russia's abrupt decision to turn off supplies to the nations of the bloc.

Defence experts have called the move Russia's toughest response yet to the sanctions imposed on Moscow due its invasion of Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-accuses-russia-of-trying-to-destabilise-separatist-region-in-moldova-474159" hreflang="en">Ukraine accuses Russia of trying to destabilise separatist region in Moldova</a>

“Alternative supplies are available, and Bulgaria hopes that alternative routes and supplies will also be secured at EU level,” said Energy Minister Alexander Nikolov.

“As long as I am Minister, Bulgaria will not negotiate under pressure, Bulgaria is not for sale and does not succumb to any trade counterpart,” Nikolov added.

Meanwhile, the executive director of the Paris-based International Energy Agency, Fatih Birol tweeted that Russia's decision is a “weaponisation of energy supplies”.

Watch WION's live TV here:

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Russia is Europe's largest supplier of natural gas and petroleum oils but the bloc has been trying to boycott it after Moscow's ''special military operation'' in Ukraine.

The bloc is trying to find an alternative for it as currently it gas storage is only 32 per cent but it wants to fill it 80 per cent by November.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission President, on Wednesday (April 27) vowed that the bloc will give Russia a ''coordinated response'' after it blocked gas supply to its members Poland and Bulgaria.

Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission President, on Wednesday (April 27) vowed that the bloc will give Russia a ''coordinated response'' after it blocked gas supply to its members Poland and Bulgaria. Calling Russian gas giant Gazprom's announcement "unjustified and unacceptable", Leyen said it was ''yet another attempt by Russia to use gas as an instrument of blackmail.'' However, Gazprom said it made the decision after Poland and Bulgaria failed to make their payments for gas in roubles. According to Von der Leyen, “Member States have put in place contingency plans for just such a scenario and we worked with them in coordination and solidarity.” “We are mapping out our coordinated EU response. We will also continue working with international partners to secure alternative flows,” she told the news agency Reuters. Officials of the EU are holding emergency talks after Russia's abrupt decision to turn off supplies to the nations of the bloc. Defence experts have called the move Russia's toughest response yet to the sanctions imposed on Moscow due its invasion of Ukraine. Also read | Ukraine accuses Russia of trying to destabilise separatist region in Moldova “Alternative supplies are available, and Bulgaria hopes that alternative routes and supplies will also be secured at EU level,” said Energy Minister Alexander Nikolov. “As long as I am Minister, Bulgaria will not negotiate under pressure, Bulgaria is not for sale and does not succumb to any trade counterpart,” Nikolov added. Meanwhile, the executive director of the Paris-based International Energy Agency, Fatih Birol tweeted that Russia's decision is a “weaponisation of energy supplies”. Watch WION's live TV here: Russia is Europe's largest supplier of natural gas and petroleum oils but the bloc has been trying to boycott it after Moscow's ''special military operation'' in Ukraine. The bloc is trying to find an alternative for it as currently it gas storage is only 32 per cent but it wants to fill it 80 per cent by November. (With inputs from agencies)

European Union vows 'coordinated response' against Russia's gas stoppage

A new study conducted by the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven in Belgium has said that the European Union needs to recycle more to fulfil its aim of becoming carbon neutral by 2050.

According to the report, the bloc, which comprises of 27 nations, must act fast to secure the supplies of crucial metals required for the green energy transition.

Amid the boycott of Russian fuel due to its invasion of Ukraine, "There is growing concern about the security of supply" as per the authors of the study.

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Lead author Liesbet Gregoir said, "Europe needs to decide urgently how it will bridge its looming supply gap for primary metals. Without a decisive strategy, it risks new dependencies on unsustainable suppliers."

EU is looking for alternative sources of fuel other than generating domestically renewable resources and using less energy.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had previously announced that the bloc will reduce its greenhouse gases to a level where the amount produced is balanced out by the amount removed from the atmosphere in the next two decades.

It is partnering with pioneers to introduce more wind, solar, and hydrogen technologies that are eco-friendly.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-gas-flows-to-europe-despite-putins-deadline-of-payment-in-roubles-467537">Also read |&nbsp;Russian gas flows to Europe despite Putin's deadline of payment in roubles</a>

To create, distribute and expand this clean power, the EU will require substantial inputs of raw materials as per the report.

The study, titled the "Metals for Clean Energy", states that the bloc will need "35 times more lithium" than it uses today to reduce carbon dioxide emissions to "net zero."

The report has been commissioned by Eurometaux, the European association of metal producers and recyclers.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

If Europe cuts red tape and invests heavily now in recycling infrastructure, it will be self-sufficient for almost 40 to 70 per cent of its clean energy.

To reduce its reliance on other countries, Europe needs to open new refineries and ore mines that have a "theoretical potential" to provide as high as 55 per cent of its raw metal needs. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A new study conducted by the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven in Belgium has said that the European Union needs to recycle more to fulfil its aim of becoming carbon neutral by 2050.

A new study conducted by the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven in Belgium has said that the European Union needs to recycle more to fulfil its aim of becoming carbon neutral by 2050. According to the report, the bloc, which comprises of 27 nations, must act fast to secure the supplies of crucial metals required for the green energy transition. Amid the boycott of Russian fuel due to its invasion of Ukraine, "There is growing concern about the security of supply" as per the authors of the study. Lead author Liesbet Gregoir said, "Europe needs to decide urgently how it will bridge its looming supply gap for primary metals. Without a decisive strategy, it risks new dependencies on unsustainable suppliers." EU is looking for alternative sources of fuel other than generating domestically renewable resources and using less energy. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had previously announced that the bloc will reduce its greenhouse gases to a level where the amount produced is balanced out by the amount removed from the atmosphere in the next two decades. It is partnering with pioneers to introduce more wind, solar, and hydrogen technologies that are eco-friendly. Also read | Russian gas flows to Europe despite Putin's deadline of payment in roubles To create, distribute and expand this clean power, the EU will require substantial inputs of raw materials as per the report. The study, titled the "Metals for Clean Energy", states that the bloc will need "35 times more lithium" than it uses today to reduce carbon dioxide emissions to "net zero." The report has been commissioned by Eurometaux, the European association of metal producers and recyclers. If Europe cuts red tape and invests heavily now in recycling infrastructure, it will be self-sufficient for almost 40 to 70 per cent of its clean energy. To reduce its reliance on other countries, Europe needs to open new refineries and ore mines that have a "theoretical potential" to provide as high as 55 per cent of its raw metal needs. (With inputs from agencies)

European Union needs to recycle more to fulfil its aim of becoming carbon neutral by 2050: Study

The European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen meets Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. At the meeting, EU Chief and Indian PM Modi have agreed to launch EU-India Trade and Technology council.

Indian PM Modi & EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen agree to launch Trade and Technology council

The European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is in India and today is her second day. She is set to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, the talks will likely focus on trade, security and climate.

EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen to meet EAM S. Jaishankar

European Commission chief Ursula Von der Leyen is on a two-day visit to India where she will be meeting top government officials in a bid to strengthen India-EU strategic partnership. This is Ursula's first visit to India as the president of the European Commission.

India: EU chief Ursula Von der Leyen arrives in India for 2-day visit

The European Union has unveiled a project called ''Global Gateway'' that is&nbsp;worth 300 billion euros ($340 billion).

The project is being seen as a response to China's Belt and Road strategy.

According to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, ''It is the initiative Build Back Better World and the European Global Gateway that are reinforcing each other. We know that we build on the same principles and now we are looking into identifying together the most promising projects where we can invest in our common initiatives.''

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The bloc will mobilise the financial aid in public and private infrastructure investment around the world.

''We want to make Global Gateway a trusted brand that stands out because of high quality, reliable standards, and high level of transparency and good governance,'' said Von der Leyen.

"We are deeply convinced that this will ensure that investment makes a real difference on the ground. And this that this is done in a sustainable way," she added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-poses-serious-political-economic-security-technological-challenges-to-eu-421441">Also read |&nbsp;China poses serious political, economic, security, technological challenges to EU</a>

Experts believe the strategy is an offshoot of a plan by G7 countries to offer developing countries an alternative to Belt and Road presented in June at the industrial powers' summit in Cornwall.

''It marks the first serious effort from the European side to put packages together and figure out financing mechanisms, so countries considering taking loans from China have an alternative option,'' as per Andrew Small, a Senior Transatlantic Fellow at the German Marshall Fund.

The Belt and Road is a flagship project of Chinese President Xi Jinping that was launched in 2013.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-lawmakers-push-for-closer-ties-with-taiwan-amid-rising-chinese-pressure-422626">Also read |&nbsp;EU lawmakers push for closer ties with Taiwan amid rising Chinese pressure</a>

Beijing has invested $139.8 billion in the project which is the centre-piece of Chinese foreign policy.

The Communist country claims it aims to develop land and sea infrastructure to better connect China to Asia, Europe and Africa for trade and development, and it has found many partners around the world.

However, the West believes it is a tool for China to influence poorer countries.&nbsp;

They criticise Beijing for inciting emerging economies to take on too much debt and allege the secretive tender process is prone to corruption.

China argues that it respects its partners' sovereignty while providing loans that benefit joint projects, while critics say Beijing's contractual terms ignore abuses of human, labour, and environmental rights.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The European Union has unveiled a project called ''Global Gateway'' that is worth 300 billion euros ($340 billion). The project is being seen as a response to China's Belt and Road strategy.

The European Union has unveiled a project called ''Global Gateway'' that is worth 300 billion euros ($340 billion). The project is being seen as a response to China's Belt and Road strategy. According to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, ''It is the initiative Build Back Better World and the European Global Gateway that are reinforcing each other. We know that we build on the same principles and now we are looking into identifying together the most promising projects where we can invest in our common initiatives.'' The bloc will mobilise the financial aid in public and private infrastructure investment around the world. ''We want to make Global Gateway a trusted brand that stands out because of high quality, reliable standards, and high level of transparency and good governance,'' said Von der Leyen. "We are deeply convinced that this will ensure that investment makes a real difference on the ground. And this that this is done in a sustainable way," she added. Also read | China poses serious political, economic, security, technological challenges to EU Experts believe the strategy is an offshoot of a plan by G7 countries to offer developing countries an alternative to Belt and Road presented in June at the industrial powers' summit in Cornwall. ''It marks the first serious effort from the European side to put packages together and figure out financing mechanisms, so countries considering taking loans from China have an alternative option,'' as per Andrew Small, a Senior Transatlantic Fellow at the German Marshall Fund. The Belt and Road is a flagship project of Chinese President Xi Jinping that was launched in 2013. Also read | EU lawmakers push for closer ties with Taiwan amid rising Chinese pressure Beijing has invested $139.8 billion in the project which is the centre-piece of Chinese foreign policy. The Communist country claims it aims to develop land and sea infrastructure to better connect China to Asia, Europe and Africa for trade and development, and it has found many partners around the world. However, the West believes it is a tool for China to influence poorer countries. They criticise Beijing for inciting emerging economies to take on too much debt and allege the secretive tender process is prone to corruption. China argues that it respects its partners' sovereignty while providing loans that benefit joint projects, while critics say Beijing's contractual terms ignore abuses of human, labour, and environmental rights. (With inputs from agencies)

Eyeing China, EU unveils 'Global Gateway' project worth $340 billion

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen while speaking at the UN climate conference&nbsp;or COP26 said on Tuesday that over 80 nations had vowed to cut methane emissions by 30 per cent by the end of the decade.

Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas and is said to be a major factor behind&nbsp;global warming. The push to slash methane gas came as the US government set a target to cut methane emissions.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/race-for-fossil-fuels-created-geo-political-tensions-says-pm-modi-at-cop26-426201">Also Read: Race for fossil fuels created 'geo-political tensions, says PM Modi at COP26</a>

World leaders gathered at the summit also pledged to end deforestation by the end of this decade. The British government asserted that the plan is backed by $20 billion in public and private funding.

Watch: What world leaders said at COP26

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"Climate change and biodiversity are two sides of the same coin," UK PM Boris Johnson said, adding," "We can't deal with the devastating loss of habitat and species without tackling climate change."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meet-me-on-earth-or-in-space-wfp-chief-fires-new-tweet-at-elon-musk-426140">Also Read |&nbsp;Meet me on Earth or in space: WFP chief fires new tweet at Elon Musk</a>

Amid the announcement, the European Commission chief announced €1 billion to protect forests worldwide as she emphasised the need to protect and restore "green lungs of the Earth".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-reforestation-in-africa-bezos-pledges-ps732-mn-after-chat-with-prince-charles-426131">Also Read |&nbsp;For reforestation in Africa, Bezos pledges £732 mn after chat with Prince Charles &nbsp;&nbsp;</a>

"This is a clear sign of our commitment to lead global change to protect our planet," she added.

(With inputs from Agencies)

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen while speaking at the UN climate conference or COP26 said on Tuesday that over 80 nations had vowed to cut methane emissions by 30 per cent by the end of the decade.

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen while speaking at the UN climate conference or COP26 said on Tuesday that over 80 nations had vowed to cut methane emissions by 30 per cent by the end of the decade. Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas and is said to be a major factor behind global warming. The push to slash methane gas came as the US government set a target to cut methane emissions. Also Read: Race for fossil fuels created 'geo-political tensions, says PM Modi at COP26 World leaders gathered at the summit also pledged to end deforestation by the end of this decade. The British government asserted that the plan is backed by $20 billion in public and private funding. Watch: What world leaders said at COP26 "Climate change and biodiversity are two sides of the same coin," UK PM Boris Johnson said, adding," "We can't deal with the devastating loss of habitat and species without tackling climate change." Also Read | Meet me on Earth or in space: WFP chief fires new tweet at Elon Musk Amid the announcement, the European Commission chief announced €1 billion to protect forests worldwide as she emphasised the need to protect and restore "green lungs of the Earth". Also Read | For reforestation in Africa, Bezos pledges £732 mn after chat with Prince Charles "This is a clear sign of our commitment to lead global change to protect our planet," she added. (With inputs from Agencies)

World leaders at COP26 vow to cut methane emissions by 30%

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (October 29) held a joint meeting with President of the European Commission Ursula Von Der Leyen and President of the European Council Charles Michel, his first deliberations after he arrived in Italy to participate in the G20 Summit.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (October 29) held a joint meeting with President of the European Commission Ursula Von Der Leyen and President of the European Council Charles Michel, his first deliberations after he arrived in Italy to participate in the G20 Summit. Official Twitter handle of the office of the Prime Minister of India informed that PM Modi's official engagements in Rome began with a "productive interaction" with Charles Michel and Ursula Von Der Leyen. The leaders discussed ways to enhance economic as well as people-to-people linkages. The discussions during the joint meeting were also aimed at creating a better planet. The Indian Prime Minister will join other leaders in discussions on global economic and health recovery from COVID-19, sustainable development and climate change. ALSO READ | Spirit of cooperation deeply rooted between Rome and New Delhi, says India's envoy to Italy Official engagements in Rome begin with a productive interaction with @eucopresident Charles Michel and @vonderleyen, President of the @EU_Commission. The leaders discussed ways to enhance economic as well as people-to-people linkages aimed at creating a better planet. pic.twitter.com/Uvk4JLN5Ca — PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 29, 2021 × ALSO READ | PM Modi to meet Macron, Merkel, Deuba and Bennett during Italy, UK visits PM Modi arrived in Rome on Friday to attend the 16th G-20 Summit. He was received by senior officials of the Government of Italy and the Ambassador of India in Italy. After arriving, PM Modi tweeted, "Landed in Rome to take part in the @g20org Summit, an important forum to deliberate on key global issues. I also look forward to other programmes through this visit to Rome." India-EU ties The 15th India-EU summit, held in a virtual mode in July 2020, was attended by Prime Minister Modi, European Council President Michel and European Commission President Leyen. In 2020, India was the EU's 10th largest trading partner accounting for 1.8 per cent of the EU's total bilateral trade in goods. India-EU bilateral trade in goods in 2020 was valued at Euro 65.30 billion. The history of India-EU bilateral relations dates back to the early 1960s with India being among the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with the European Economic Community in 1962. × The first India-EU Summit took place on 28 June 2000 in Lisbon. The relationship was upgraded to a 'Strategic Partnership' during the 5th India-EU Summit held in 2004 in The Hague. The 27-member EU is a political and economic bloc comprising 27 member states located primarily in Europe. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi begins engagements in Rome, holds meeting with European Council, European Commission presidents

The European Union has imposed a fine of $1.16 million per day on Poland over a dispute of the rule of the law.

The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) has asked Warsaw to pay the fine for maintaining a disciplinary chamber for judges.

According to EU Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders, the decision confirms ''deep concerns about the risk of serious and irreparable damage to the European Union's legal order and the rule of law.''

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In response, Polish government spokesman Piotr Muller tweeted ''The road of penalties and blackmail against our country is not the right one.''

"This is not the model in which the European Union, a union of sovereign states,&nbsp;should operate." &nbsp;

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Polski rząd publicznie mówił o konieczność dokonania zmian w tym obszarze, które zapewnią jego efektywne funkcjonowanie. Droga kar i szantażu wobec naszego kraju to nie jest właściwa droga. To nie jest model,w którym powinna funkcjonować Unia Europejska - unia suwerennych państw.
— Piotr Müller (@PiotrMuller) <a href="https://twitter.com/PiotrMuller/status/1453348571240140800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, Deputy Justice Minister Sebastian Kaleta said ''The CJEU completely disregards and ignores the Polish constitution and the judgments of the Constitutional Tribunal.''

The decision is bound to further strain Poland's future ties with the bloc. It is the largest eastern member in the union.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-eu-spat-will-respect-european-law-says-polish-foreign-ministry-419484">Also read |&nbsp;Poland-EU spat: Will respect European law, says Polish foreign ministry</a>

Warsaw and Brussels have been at loggerheads for years over the judicial reforms pushed through by the Law and Justice (PiS) government.

Brussels believes the reforms hamper democratic freedom but Poland says they are needed to root out corruption among judges.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-leaders-lambast-poland-over-its-challenge-to-union-422885">Also read |&nbsp;EU leaders lambast Poland over its challenge to union</a>

Earlier, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said ''All rulings by the European Court of Justice are binding on all member states' authorities, including national courts.''

The comment came after Poland's highest court ruled that some parts of EU treaties are incompatible with the Polish constitution, challenging a pillar of European integration and sharply escalating a dispute between Brussels and Warsaw. 
&nbsp;

The European Union has imposed a fine of $1.16 million per day on Poland over a dispute of the rule of the law. The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) has asked Warsaw to pay the fine for maintaining a disciplinary chamber for judges.

The European Union has imposed a fine of $1.16 million per day on Poland over a dispute of the rule of the law. The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) has asked Warsaw to pay the fine for maintaining a disciplinary chamber for judges. According to EU Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders, the decision confirms ''deep concerns about the risk of serious and irreparable damage to the European Union's legal order and the rule of law.'' In response, Polish government spokesman Piotr Muller tweeted ''The road of penalties and blackmail against our country is not the right one.'' "This is not the model in which the European Union, a union of sovereign states, should operate." Polski rząd publicznie mówił o konieczność dokonania zmian w tym obszarze, które zapewnią jego efektywne funkcjonowanie. Droga kar i szantażu wobec naszego kraju to nie jest właściwa droga. To nie jest model,w którym powinna funkcjonować Unia Europejska - unia suwerennych państw. — Piotr Müller (@PiotrMuller) October 27, 2021 × Meanwhile, Deputy Justice Minister Sebastian Kaleta said ''The CJEU completely disregards and ignores the Polish constitution and the judgments of the Constitutional Tribunal.'' The decision is bound to further strain Poland's future ties with the bloc. It is the largest eastern member in the union. Also read | Poland-EU spat: Will respect European law, says Polish foreign ministry Warsaw and Brussels have been at loggerheads for years over the judicial reforms pushed through by the Law and Justice (PiS) government. Brussels believes the reforms hamper democratic freedom but Poland says they are needed to root out corruption among judges. Also read | EU leaders lambast Poland over its challenge to union Earlier, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said ''All rulings by the European Court of Justice are binding on all member states' authorities, including national courts.'' The comment came after Poland's highest court ruled that some parts of EU treaties are incompatible with the Polish constitution, challenging a pillar of European integration and sharply escalating a dispute between Brussels and Warsaw.

'Pressure of blackmail': EU court imposes massive fine of over $1 million per day on Poland

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki accused the EU of "blackmail" during a public clash with the EU chief over Poland's rejection of parts of EU law.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Speaking during a public confrontation with European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen,&nbsp;Morawiecki said that&nbsp;"it is unacceptable to talk about financial penalties... I will not have EU politicians blackmail Poland."

In her remarks, Von der Leyen warned that her Commission, which is tasked as the guardian of EU treaties, would "act" to rein Poland in.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/polish-court-calls-parts-of-eu-law-unconstitutional-dispute-escalates-419090">Polish court calls parts of EU law unconstitutional, dispute escalates</a>

Enumerating the legal, financial, and political options being considered, she said, "We cannot and we will not allow our common values to be put at risk."&nbsp;

A Polish Constitutional Court ruling on October 7 had raised questions about parts of EU law, igniting long-simmering tensions between Poland and Brussels.

This dispute, which took place in the European Parliament, emphasized the severity of the topic, which both Brussels and Warsaw claim threatens the cohesion of the 27-nation bloc.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-calls-poland-court-ruling-attack-against-eu-419132">France calls Poland court ruling 'attack against EU'</a>

Analysts said the partial rejection of EU supremacy could be the first step in Poland's eventual departure from the European Union.

Morawiecki maintained, however, that Poland's place was in the European Union, with EU law derived from the EU's treaties only applicable in specified areas and Poland's national constitution supreme in all other areas.

What can the EU do?

Withholding recovery cash from a pooled EU fund that was established for the bloc to recover from the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic could be one of the measures the Commission uses against Poland.

Poland's request for 23 billion euros in grants and 34 billion euros in cheap loans, is still being considered by the Commission, which it&nbsp;said&nbsp;could be subject to conditions.

In a letter released on Monday, Morawiecki described this as "financial blackmail, punishment, 'starving' of unsubordinated states".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-eu-spat-will-respect-european-law-says-polish-foreign-ministry-419484">Poland-EU spat: Will respect European law, says Polish foreign ministry</a>

For its part, Poland can play a spoiler in a number of key EU policy areas that require unanimity among the 27 member states, including its position on climate change and migration.&nbsp;It also has the support of Hungary, another bete noire for Brussels, seen to be flouting the rule of law.

On Thursday and Friday, EU leaders will meet in Brussels. With the Netherlands and Luxembourg particularly critical of Warsaw, Poland could rise to the top of its agenda.

Jean Asselborn, Luxembourg's foreign minister, said ahead of an EU European affairs ministers meeting on Tuesday: "Europe will not survive if rule of law falls. That's very clear."

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Will Poland leave the European Union?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-poland-leave-the-european-union-420257/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The European Commission and Parliament have taken Warsaw to task, for moves to scrap judges' independence and other policies that are seen as regressive to democratic norms.

Additionally, they have sharply criticized Poland's extreme social policies, including restrictions on LGBTQ rights and a near-total ban on abortions pushed by the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party.

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki accused the EU of "blackmail" during a public clash with the EU chief over Poland's rejection of parts of EU law. Speaking during a public confrontation with European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen, Morawiecki said that "it is unacceptable to talk about financial penalties.

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki accused the EU of "blackmail" during a public clash with the EU chief over Poland's rejection of parts of EU law. Speaking during a public confrontation with European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen, Morawiecki said that "it is unacceptable to talk about financial penalties... I will not have EU politicians blackmail Poland." In her remarks, Von der Leyen warned that her Commission, which is tasked as the guardian of EU treaties, would "act" to rein Poland in. Also read | Polish court calls parts of EU law unconstitutional, dispute escalates Enumerating the legal, financial, and political options being considered, she said, "We cannot and we will not allow our common values to be put at risk." A Polish Constitutional Court ruling on October 7 had raised questions about parts of EU law, igniting long-simmering tensions between Poland and Brussels. This dispute, which took place in the European Parliament, emphasized the severity of the topic, which both Brussels and Warsaw claim threatens the cohesion of the 27-nation bloc. Also read | France calls Poland court ruling 'attack against EU' Analysts said the partial rejection of EU supremacy could be the first step in Poland's eventual departure from the European Union. Morawiecki maintained, however, that Poland's place was in the European Union, with EU law derived from the EU's treaties only applicable in specified areas and Poland's national constitution supreme in all other areas. What can the EU do? Withholding recovery cash from a pooled EU fund that was established for the bloc to recover from the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic could be one of the measures the Commission uses against Poland. Poland's request for 23 billion euros in grants and 34 billion euros in cheap loans, is still being considered by the Commission, which it said could be subject to conditions. In a letter released on Monday, Morawiecki described this as "financial blackmail, punishment, 'starving' of unsubordinated states". Also read | Poland-EU spat: Will respect European law, says Polish foreign ministry For its part, Poland can play a spoiler in a number of key EU policy areas that require unanimity among the 27 member states, including its position on climate change and migration. It also has the support of Hungary, another bete noire for Brussels, seen to be flouting the rule of law. On Thursday and Friday, EU leaders will meet in Brussels. With the Netherlands and Luxembourg particularly critical of Warsaw, Poland could rise to the top of its agenda. Jean Asselborn, Luxembourg's foreign minister, said ahead of an EU European affairs ministers meeting on Tuesday: "Europe will not survive if rule of law falls. That's very clear." Watch | Gravitas: Will Poland leave the European Union? The European Commission and Parliament have taken Warsaw to task, for moves to scrap judges' independence and other policies that are seen as regressive to democratic norms. Additionally, they have sharply criticized Poland's extreme social policies, including restrictions on LGBTQ rights and a near-total ban on abortions pushed by the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party.

EU-Poland spat: Polish PM accuses EU of 'blackmail'

Taliban’s new government in Afghanistan has warned a possible influx of refugees if the US and European envoys continue slapping sanctions on the terrorist organisations.<o:p></o:p>

The terrorist organisation has warned that of the western governments continue trying to bring down the Taliban government, it can pose threats for the security sector of the world. <o:p></o:p>

"Weakening the Afghan government is not in the interest of anyone because its negative effects will directly affect the world in (the) security sector and economic migration from the country," Acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi told Western diplomats at talks in Doha.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghan-interpreter-who-helped-rescue-biden-in-2008-escapes-taliban-regime-420043">Afghan interpreter who helped rescue Biden in 2008 escapes Taliban regime</a></o:p>

This statement from Taliban comes at a time when the new government in Afghanistan is struggling to stabilise the country. <o:p></o:p>

Afghanistan has been facing repeated attacks from Taliban’s rival terrorist organisation, ISIS, bringing a rise in daily death count and violence in the country. In addition to this, as western countries have stopped all financial aids for Taliban-run country, the group is struggling to bring financial stability. Taliban has also not been able to pay electricity bills to neighbouring states which means there is a possibility the country can go dark in the next few weeks.<o:p></o:p>

"We urge world countries to end existing sanctions and let banks operate normally so that charity groups, organisations and the government can pay salaries to their staff with their own reserves and international financial assistance," a statement from Muttaqi’s spokesperson said.<o:p></o:p>

This statement from Taliban has, indeed, increased fears of the European nations about a possible influx of migrants. Several European countries are worried that if the Afghanistan economy collapses or comes to the verge of complete collapse, locals will head out towards Europe as migrants.<o:p></o:p>

However, the US and European Union (EU) have said that they are ready to step in and help end the humanitarian crisis, provided they get to bypass the Taliban government. The leaders have urged Taliban to assure that the financial aids will go to re-establishing human rights and women’s rights.<o:p></o:p>

"We have been clear about our conditions for any engagement with the Afghan authorities, including on the respect of human rights," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said.<o:p></o:p>

Taliban’s new government in Afghanistan has warned a possible influx of refugees if the US and European envoys continue slapping sanctions on the terrorist organisations.

Taliban’s new government in Afghanistan has warned a possible influx of refugees if the US and European envoys continue slapping sanctions on the terrorist organisations. The terrorist organisation has warned that of the western governments continue trying to bring down the Taliban government, it can pose threats for the security sector of the world. "Weakening the Afghan government is not in the interest of anyone because its negative effects will directly affect the world in (the) security sector and economic migration from the country," Acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi told Western diplomats at talks in Doha. Also read | Afghan interpreter who helped rescue Biden in 2008 escapes Taliban regime This statement from Taliban comes at a time when the new government in Afghanistan is struggling to stabilise the country. Afghanistan has been facing repeated attacks from Taliban’s rival terrorist organisation, ISIS, bringing a rise in daily death count and violence in the country. In addition to this, as western countries have stopped all financial aids for Taliban-run country, the group is struggling to bring financial stability. Taliban has also not been able to pay electricity bills to neighbouring states which means there is a possibility the country can go dark in the next few weeks. "We urge world countries to end existing sanctions and let banks operate normally so that charity groups, organisations and the government can pay salaries to their staff with their own reserves and international financial assistance," a statement from Muttaqi’s spokesperson said. This statement from Taliban has, indeed, increased fears of the European nations about a possible influx of migrants. Several European countries are worried that if the Afghanistan economy collapses or comes to the verge of complete collapse, locals will head out towards Europe as migrants. However, the US and European Union (EU) have said that they are ready to step in and help end the humanitarian crisis, provided they get to bypass the Taliban government. The leaders have urged Taliban to assure that the financial aids will go to re-establishing human rights and women’s rights. "We have been clear about our conditions for any engagement with the Afghan authorities, including on the respect of human rights," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said.

Taliban urge US, EU to 'end existing sanctions' to avoid refugee crisis

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday virtually addressed the Shanghai cooperation organisation or SCO summit, highlighting Central Asia's Sufi heritage to fight extremism. At the summit, which took place in a hybrid format, and India was represented in person by External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar, the PM talked about "challenges" in the area which is "related to peace, security, and trust deficit" and the root cause of these problems being "increasing radicalization."

PM Modi highlighted how Central Asia has been a "bastion of moderate and progressive cultures and values" and "traditions like Sufism have flourished here over the centuries and spread throughout the region and the world." Based on this "historical heritage of Central Asia, SCO should develop a common template to fight radicalization and extremism."

PM proposed that SCO should work to "develop a strong network" between "moderate, tolerant, and inclusive institutions and traditions associated with Islam" in SCO countries and lauded the "useful work being done by SCO-RATS". SCO RATS is the group's Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) which is headquartered in Tashkent, Uzbekistan and aims at increasing cooperation among member states on the issue of counter-terror, separatism and extremism. India will soon take over the Presidency of SCO-RATS.

Mentioning Afghanistan, the PM called on the group to take "initiative on this issue". Afghanistan was taken over by the Taliban last month, and many Central Asian countries, including Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, are concerned about an increase in refugee influx as a result of the insecurity.

He also welcomed Iran as its new member state and the inclusion of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Qatar as its dialogue partners. All 4 countries are India's close partners in West Asia. PM said, "The expansion of SCO shows the growing influence of our organisation. SCO will become stronger and more credible with new Members and Dialogue Partners." SCO has 8 members so far-- Russia, China, India, Pakistan, and 4 central Asian countries--Tajikistan, &nbsp;Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan. The last major expansion saw India and Pakistan included in the mega China-led grouping.&nbsp;

A specific focus was also on connectivity in the speech, with the PM emphasising the role of central Asia as a "connectivity bridge between major regional markets" and retreating from New Delhi's commitment to increasing connectivity with that part of the world. He batted for Iran's Chabahar port and International North-South Corridor that has huge Indian investment.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday virtually addressed the Shanghai cooperation organisation or SCO summit, highlighting Central Asia's Sufi heritage to fight extremism.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday virtually addressed the Shanghai cooperation organisation or SCO summit, highlighting Central Asia's Sufi heritage to fight extremism. At the summit, which took place in a hybrid format, and India was represented in person by External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar, the PM talked about "challenges" in the area which is "related to peace, security, and trust deficit" and the root cause of these problems being "increasing radicalization." PM Modi highlighted how Central Asia has been a "bastion of moderate and progressive cultures and values" and "traditions like Sufism have flourished here over the centuries and spread throughout the region and the world." Based on this "historical heritage of Central Asia, SCO should develop a common template to fight radicalization and extremism." PM proposed that SCO should work to "develop a strong network" between "moderate, tolerant, and inclusive institutions and traditions associated with Islam" in SCO countries and lauded the "useful work being done by SCO-RATS". SCO RATS is the group's Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) which is headquartered in Tashkent, Uzbekistan and aims at increasing cooperation among member states on the issue of counter-terror, separatism and extremism. India will soon take over the Presidency of SCO-RATS. Mentioning Afghanistan, the PM called on the group to take "initiative on this issue". Afghanistan was taken over by the Taliban last month, and many Central Asian countries, including Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, are concerned about an increase in refugee influx as a result of the insecurity. He also welcomed Iran as its new member state and the inclusion of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Qatar as its dialogue partners. All 4 countries are India's close partners in West Asia. PM said, "The expansion of SCO shows the growing influence of our organisation. SCO will become stronger and more credible with new Members and Dialogue Partners." SCO has 8 members so far-- Russia, China, India, Pakistan, and 4 central Asian countries--Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan. The last major expansion saw India and Pakistan included in the mega China-led grouping. A specific focus was also on connectivity in the speech, with the PM emphasising the role of central Asia as a "connectivity bridge between major regional markets" and retreating from New Delhi's commitment to increasing connectivity with that part of the world. He batted for Iran's Chabahar port and International North-South Corridor that has huge Indian investment.

At SCO, PM Modi highlights Central Asia's Sufi heritage to fight extremism

The European Union has stepped up its engagement on Indo Pacific with adoption of a joint communication on the EU strategy for cooperation in the Indo Pacific.

This plan includes concrete actions to reinforce the strategic engagement with the region which was tasked by the EU Council in April of this year.

Highlighting the importance of the adoption EU President Ursula von der Leyen said, "With (these) proposals, and guided by our values, we are offering a strengthened partnership to advance trade, investment and connectivity, while addressing common global challenges and reinforcing the rules-based international order."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-kept-india-in-loop-regarding-aukus-at-the-highest-level-413782" hreflang="en">Australia kept India in loop regarding Aukus at the highest-level</a>

India is key to the plan as&nbsp;EU is resuming its trade negotiations and starting investment negotiations with the country. The document stated that, "Once concluded, these agreements will considerably enhance the EU-India trade and investment relationship".

The plan mentions EU stepping up implementation of the Connectivity Partnerships with Japan and India.&nbsp;

As part of the plan, EU will also initiate regulatory cooperation in areas to support the green and digital transitions&nbsp;as, for example, the EU and India agreed to do in May 2021. Overall, EU will deepen its engagement with partners that already have Indo-Pacific approaches of their own — ASEAN, Australia, India, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Interestingly, under the new plan, the group will be engaging with Quad on "issues of common interest such as climate change, technology or vaccines".

The Quad or India, US, Japan and Australia will be holding their first in-person summit next week in Washington, in a move that formalises the grouping. The 18-page joint communication sees the Indian Ocean as the "principal passage for Europe to and from Indo-Pacific markets" and therefore the "stability and freedom of navigation in this area are therefore vital".

As part of the plan, the EU will also pursue its deep trade and investment relationships with regions and countries with whom it does not have trade and investment agreements, such as Taiwan.

The European Union has stepped up its engagement on Indo Pacific with adoption of a joint communication on the EU strategy for cooperation in the Indo Pacific. This plan includes concrete actions to reinforce the strategic engagement with the region which was tasked by the EU Council in April of this year.

The European Union has stepped up its engagement on Indo Pacific with adoption of a joint communication on the EU strategy for cooperation in the Indo Pacific. This plan includes concrete actions to reinforce the strategic engagement with the region which was tasked by the EU Council in April of this year. Highlighting the importance of the adoption EU President Ursula von der Leyen said, "With (these) proposals, and guided by our values, we are offering a strengthened partnership to advance trade, investment and connectivity, while addressing common global challenges and reinforcing the rules-based international order." Also read | Australia kept India in loop regarding Aukus at the highest-level India is key to the plan as EU is resuming its trade negotiations and starting investment negotiations with the country. The document stated that, "Once concluded, these agreements will considerably enhance the EU-India trade and investment relationship". The plan mentions EU stepping up implementation of the Connectivity Partnerships with Japan and India. As part of the plan, EU will also initiate regulatory cooperation in areas to support the green and digital transitions as, for example, the EU and India agreed to do in May 2021. Overall, EU will deepen its engagement with partners that already have Indo-Pacific approaches of their own — ASEAN, Australia, India, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom and the United States. Interestingly, under the new plan, the group will be engaging with Quad on "issues of common interest such as climate change, technology or vaccines". The Quad or India, US, Japan and Australia will be holding their first in-person summit next week in Washington, in a move that formalises the grouping. The 18-page joint communication sees the Indian Ocean as the "principal passage for Europe to and from Indo-Pacific markets" and therefore the "stability and freedom of navigation in this area are therefore vital". As part of the plan, the EU will also pursue its deep trade and investment relationships with regions and countries with whom it does not have trade and investment agreements, such as Taiwan.

Deepening partnership with India: EU steps up engagement in Indo Pacific with new plan

According to a new announcement by the Hungarian government, apart from schools, churches will also be subject to the controversial provisions of Hungary's new anti-LGBTQ law.

Passed in June, the "Anti-Paedophilia Act", originally intended to toughen penalties for child abuse, but was later&nbsp;amended to prohibit the promotion of homosexual behaviour to minors, i.e., those under 18.

The government announced on Friday that shops will be prohibited from selling such products within a 200-metre (yard) radius of churches, schools, and child protection institutions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-to-join-budapest-pride-march-in-protest-over-new-anti-lgbt-law-400345">Thousands to join Budapest Pride march in protest over new anti-LGBT law</a>

As per this law, companies are prohibited from running ads that show support for homosexuality and could be perceived as targeting minors.&nbsp;

The government decree setting out the implementation of the law regulates the "display or portrayal" of products that "express homosexuality" or represent a "deviation from the identity corresponding to the sex at birth".

Hungarian and European Union leaders are once again at odds over this law.

Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission chief, has branded the measure "a disgrace" and the commission has initiated an infringement procedure against Hungary, claiming the measure violates EU rights to freedom of expression, trade, and services.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-launches-legal-action-against-hungary-poland-over-lgbtq-rights-398260">EU launches legal action against Hungary, Poland over LGBTQ rights</a>

With the new law,&nbsp;Hungary's nationalist prime minister Viktor Orban is seen as pursuing a policy to transform the country into an allegedly illiberal country built upon conservative Christian values.

Activists warn of a rising fear in the community as a result of the law, the latest in a series of laws targeting LGBTQ Hungarians.

The law could have an adverse effect; according to teachers, publishers, and broadcasters, it might mean that books would be removed from the curriculum and films with&nbsp;gay characters&nbsp;would be banned from daytime viewing.

Prior to the latest law, a civil society group was fined for not labelling a children's book published on same-sex parents with a parental guidance warning.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hungary-to-hold-referendum-on-controversial-anti-lgbtqia-law-says-pm-orban-399461">Hungary to hold referendum on controversial anti-LGBTQIA+ law, says PM Orban</a>

Orban announced on July 21 the new law would be subject to a national vote, although no date was specified.

It is speculated that Orban is targeting the LGBT community as part of his antimigration agenda and an effort to reinforce his socially conservative voter base ahead of the next election.

(With inputs from agencies)

According to a new announcement by the Hungarian government, apart from schools, churches will also be subject to the controversial provisions of Hungary's new anti-LGBTQ law.

According to a new announcement by the Hungarian government, apart from schools, churches will also be subject to the controversial provisions of Hungary's new anti-LGBTQ law. Passed in June, the "Anti-Paedophilia Act", originally intended to toughen penalties for child abuse, but was later amended to prohibit the promotion of homosexual behaviour to minors, i.e., those under 18. The government announced on Friday that shops will be prohibited from selling such products within a 200-metre (yard) radius of churches, schools, and child protection institutions. Also read | Thousands to join Budapest Pride march in protest over new anti-LGBT law As per this law, companies are prohibited from running ads that show support for homosexuality and could be perceived as targeting minors. The government decree setting out the implementation of the law regulates the "display or portrayal" of products that "express homosexuality" or represent a "deviation from the identity corresponding to the sex at birth". Hungarian and European Union leaders are once again at odds over this law. Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission chief, has branded the measure "a disgrace" and the commission has initiated an infringement procedure against Hungary, claiming the measure violates EU rights to freedom of expression, trade, and services. Also read | EU launches legal action against Hungary, Poland over LGBTQ rights With the new law, Hungary's nationalist prime minister Viktor Orban is seen as pursuing a policy to transform the country into an allegedly illiberal country built upon conservative Christian values. Activists warn of a rising fear in the community as a result of the law, the latest in a series of laws targeting LGBTQ Hungarians. The law could have an adverse effect; according to teachers, publishers, and broadcasters, it might mean that books would be removed from the curriculum and films with gay characters would be banned from daytime viewing. Prior to the latest law, a civil society group was fined for not labelling a children's book published on same-sex parents with a parental guidance warning. Also read | Hungary to hold referendum on controversial anti-LGBTQIA+ law, says PM Orban Orban announced on July 21 the new law would be subject to a national vote, although no date was specified. It is speculated that Orban is targeting the LGBT community as part of his antimigration agenda and an effort to reinforce his socially conservative voter base ahead of the next election. (With inputs from agencies)

Churches in Hungary to be subject to anti LGBTQ law

The European Union has hit its target of delivering enough <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus&nbsp;vaccine</a>&nbsp;to cover 70 per cent of the adult population,&nbsp;EU&nbsp;Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Saturday.

The 27&nbsp;EU&nbsp;member state governments are responsible for administering the&nbsp;vaccines&nbsp;to citizens with some working much faster than others, von der Leyen stressed that: "The&nbsp;EU&nbsp;has kept its word."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-likely-to-vaccinate-70-adult-population-by-end-of-july-379617">EU likely to vaccinate 70% adult population by end of July</a>

The&nbsp;EU&nbsp;joint&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;purchasing scheme, run by von der Leyen's European Commission, has delivered 330 million BioNTech-<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/pfizer">Pfizer</a> shots, 100 million AstraZeneca, 50 million from Moderna and 20 million Johnson &amp; Johnson.

All but the J&amp;J jab require two doses to achieve full efficacy, and the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;is home to an estimated 366 million adults.

"This weekend, we delivered enough&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;to member states to fully vaccinate at least 70 percent of the adult population this month. By tomorrow, some 500 million doses will have been distributed to all regions of Europe," von der Leyen said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-seals-deal-for-more-18-billion-pfizerbiontech-covid-vaccine-doses-383700">EU seals deal for more 1.8 billion Pfizer/BioNTech Covid vaccine doses</a>

"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> is not yet defeated. But we are prepared to continue supplying&nbsp;vaccines&nbsp;-- also against new variants. Now the member states must do everything they can to ensure that vaccinations move forward. Only then will we all be safe."

When the coronavirus epidemic hit Europe last year, the European Commission, which previously had little role in health policy,&nbsp;stepped in to coordinate a joint buying programme for members.

Joint approach&nbsp;

This was criticised at first by some for having been slow to get into gear and to negotiate contracts with drug suppliers, and the plan was hampered later when some firms, notably UK-based AstraZeneca, fell short in deliveries.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-asks-astrazeneca-to-catch-up-on-covid-vaccine-deliveries-373240">EU asks AstraZeneca to 'catch up' on COVID vaccine deliveries</a>

But, as industry raced to boost production of the newly developed&nbsp;vaccines, purchases started flowing in, and von der Leyen will see meeting the European Commission's self-imposed July deadline for 70 per cent coverage as vindication.

"The&nbsp;EU&nbsp;is delivering," she said. "Our vaccination campaign has accelerated tremendously since the beginning of the year. The joint approach is a success. Only together can we come out of this crisis well."

In addition to the initial roll-out goal, the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;contributes to the international <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covax-delivers-over-20-million-doses-to-20-nations-368420">Covax plan</a> to supply doses to poorer countries and it has pre-ordered many more&nbsp;vaccines&nbsp;for next year as insurance against the rise of variants.&nbsp;

But the vaccination campaign will only be a success if member state governments and their over-worked public health systems manage to give out the shots they are now receiving from the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;plan. &nbsp;

According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, the proportion of adults aged 18 years or over fully vaccinated in the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;and European Economic Area is still only 44.1 per cent.

The European Union has hit its target of delivering enough coronavirus vaccine to cover 70 per cent of the adult population, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Saturday.

The European Union has hit its target of delivering enough coronavirus vaccine to cover 70 per cent of the adult population, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Saturday. The 27 EU member state governments are responsible for administering the vaccines to citizens with some working much faster than others, von der Leyen stressed that: "The EU has kept its word." Also read | EU likely to vaccinate 70% adult population by end of July The EU joint vaccine purchasing scheme, run by von der Leyen's European Commission, has delivered 330 million BioNTech-Pfizer shots, 100 million AstraZeneca, 50 million from Moderna and 20 million Johnson & Johnson. All but the J&J jab require two doses to achieve full efficacy, and the EU is home to an estimated 366 million adults. "This weekend, we delivered enough vaccine to member states to fully vaccinate at least 70 percent of the adult population this month. By tomorrow, some 500 million doses will have been distributed to all regions of Europe," von der Leyen said. Also read | EU seals deal for more 1.8 billion Pfizer/BioNTech Covid vaccine doses "COVID-19 is not yet defeated. But we are prepared to continue supplying vaccines -- also against new variants. Now the member states must do everything they can to ensure that vaccinations move forward. Only then will we all be safe." When the coronavirus epidemic hit Europe last year, the European Commission, which previously had little role in health policy, stepped in to coordinate a joint buying programme for members. Joint approach This was criticised at first by some for having been slow to get into gear and to negotiate contracts with drug suppliers, and the plan was hampered later when some firms, notably UK-based AstraZeneca, fell short in deliveries. Also read | EU asks AstraZeneca to 'catch up' on COVID vaccine deliveries But, as industry raced to boost production of the newly developed vaccines, purchases started flowing in, and von der Leyen will see meeting the European Commission's self-imposed July deadline for 70 per cent coverage as vindication. "The EU is delivering," she said. "Our vaccination campaign has accelerated tremendously since the beginning of the year. The joint approach is a success. Only together can we come out of this crisis well." In addition to the initial roll-out goal, the EU contributes to the international Covax plan to supply doses to poorer countries and it has pre-ordered many more vaccines for next year as insurance against the rise of variants. But the vaccination campaign will only be a success if member state governments and their over-worked public health systems manage to give out the shots they are now receiving from the EU plan. According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, the proportion of adults aged 18 years or over fully vaccinated in the EU and European Economic Area is still only 44.1 per cent.

EU hits goal of delivering vaccines for 70% of adults

The European Union's chief executive Ursula von der Leyen, facing pressure to cut funding to Budapest, has warned&nbsp;Hungary&nbsp;to reverse course on its controversial LGBTQ law.

The legislation introduced by Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orban was sharply criticised by EU leaders at a summit last month, with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte telling Budapest to respect EU values of tolerance or leave the 27-country bloc.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/angela-merkel-condemns-hungarys-new-lgbtq-law-as-wrong-393633/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Now, Brussels is considering legal action against the EU member state and is considering linking the disbursement of post-Covid recovery funds to its repeal.

European Commission President von der Leyen told the European Parliament in Strasbourg that, "Homosexuality is equated with pornography. This legislation uses the protection of children ... to discriminate against people because of their sexual orientation ... It is a disgrace."

"No issue was as important as the one that impinges on our values and our identity," von der Leyen said of the Hungarian law discussion at the June EU summit, saying it went against the protection of minorities and respect for human rights.

Von der Leyen said&nbsp;Hungary&nbsp;would face the full force of EU law if it did not back down, although she did not give details. Such steps could mean a ruling by the European Court of Justice and the freezing of EU funds for Budapest, EU lawmakers say.

Orban, who has been&nbsp;Hungary's prime minister since 2010 and faces an election next year, has become more conservative and combative in promoting what he says are traditional Catholic values under pressure from the liberal West.

The Spanish government last month approved the draft of a bill to allow anyone over the age of 14 to change gender legally without a medical diagnosis or hormone therapy, the first large EU country to do so, in support of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) rights.

French President Emmanuel Macron has called the split over values between eastern countries such as&nbsp;Hungary, Poland and Slovenia as a "cultural battle".

Hungary&nbsp;has for years defied the EU with authoritarian-style laws that critics say hamper free speech as well as threaten the independence of the country's judiciary.

The European Commission has launched several legal procedures to push back against Budapest, but these have gone nowhere after Poland and&nbsp;Hungary&nbsp;blocked the process, which requires unanimity among the 27 member states to continue.

At issue now is a law, titled the "Anti-Paedophilia Act", that was originally billed as toughening punishments for child abuse. But its final draft contains amendments that critics say conflates paedophilia with homosexuality and generally stigmatises support for the LGBTQ community.

(With inputs from agencies)

The European Union's chief executive Ursula von der Leyen, facing pressure to cut funding to Budapest, has warned Hungary to reverse course on its controversial LGBTQ law.

The European Union's chief executive Ursula von der Leyen, facing pressure to cut funding to Budapest, has warned Hungary to reverse course on its controversial LGBTQ law. The legislation introduced by Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orban was sharply criticised by EU leaders at a summit last month, with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte telling Budapest to respect EU values of tolerance or leave the 27-country bloc. Now, Brussels is considering legal action against the EU member state and is considering linking the disbursement of post-Covid recovery funds to its repeal. European Commission President von der Leyen told the European Parliament in Strasbourg that, "Homosexuality is equated with pornography. This legislation uses the protection of children ... to discriminate against people because of their sexual orientation ... It is a disgrace." "No issue was as important as the one that impinges on our values and our identity," von der Leyen said of the Hungarian law discussion at the June EU summit, saying it went against the protection of minorities and respect for human rights. Von der Leyen said Hungary would face the full force of EU law if it did not back down, although she did not give details. Such steps could mean a ruling by the European Court of Justice and the freezing of EU funds for Budapest, EU lawmakers say. Orban, who has been Hungary's prime minister since 2010 and faces an election next year, has become more conservative and combative in promoting what he says are traditional Catholic values under pressure from the liberal West. The Spanish government last month approved the draft of a bill to allow anyone over the age of 14 to change gender legally without a medical diagnosis or hormone therapy, the first large EU country to do so, in support of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) rights. French President Emmanuel Macron has called the split over values between eastern countries such as Hungary, Poland and Slovenia as a "cultural battle". Hungary has for years defied the EU with authoritarian-style laws that critics say hamper free speech as well as threaten the independence of the country's judiciary. The European Commission has launched several legal procedures to push back against Budapest, but these have gone nowhere after Poland and Hungary blocked the process, which requires unanimity among the 27 member states to continue. At issue now is a law, titled the "Anti-Paedophilia Act", that was originally billed as toughening punishments for child abuse. But its final draft contains amendments that critics say conflates paedophilia with homosexuality and generally stigmatises support for the LGBTQ community. (With inputs from agencies)

European Union warns Hungary to 'rectify' anti-LGBTQ law

The&nbsp;EU&nbsp;and&nbsp;India&nbsp;were set to bolster warming ties at a virtual summit Saturday by relaunching long-stalled trade talks and agreeing to work together against the coronavirus pandemic battering the south Asian giant.

The devastating wave of infections sweeping&nbsp;India&nbsp;has already impacted the meeting by forcing Prime Minister Narendra Modi to scrap plans to fly to Portugal to see his European counterparts. &nbsp;

But the 27-nation bloc and the world's largest democracy remain determined to capitalise on growing momentum for tighter relations fuelled by shared concerns over the rising might of China.

"I am positive that we will be able to do a major step forward because between the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;and&nbsp;India&nbsp;there is a close relationship, but also a lot of untapped potential," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said as&nbsp;EU&nbsp;leaders gathered in Porto.

"The most untapped potential is in trade and investment."

EU&nbsp;countries have sent medical equipment and drugs worth an estimated 100 million euros ($120 million) to&nbsp;India&nbsp;as part of international efforts to help it fight against the flood of COVID-19 cases.

The focus on the virus at the summit will be on making sure the two vaccine-producing powerhouses can maintain global supplies and monitoring the spread of variants, as well as on trying to plan together to tackle future pandemics.

"We obviously need to work together to continue our efforts to ramp up production, secure the necessary raw materials, and keep supply chains open," a senior&nbsp;EU&nbsp;official said.&nbsp;

"Leaders are going to commit to working together, to better prepare for and respond to global health emergencies, and this clearly includes strengthening and reforming the World Health Organization."

Von der Leyen said the two sides would agree on a "common platform" on sequencing the Covid-19 virus to help keep track of any new variants that may emerge.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/push-on-social-issues-as-eu-faces-covid-fallout-383556">Push on social issues as EU faces Covid fallout</a>

Waiving patents&nbsp;

Modi could also push the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;on waiving patents for COVID-19 jabs after the US threw its weight behind the proposal.

European Council chief Charles Michel said the bloc was willing to discuss the initiative once a concrete proposal was "on the table", but leaders have expressed scepticism about lifting patents.&nbsp;

While the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">pandemic</a> casts a long shadow over the summit, the key announcement is the restarting of talks on a free trade agreement that have been suspended since 2013.

Von der Leyen said talks would restart on a trade pact and begin on separate deals to protect investments and regionally-specific&nbsp;products.&nbsp;

She said that the two sides would also look to cooperate on developing cutting edge technologies including Artificial Intelligence and supercomputers.&nbsp;

Negotiations on the trade deal were halted eight years ago after getting stuck on issues including cutting tariffs and access for Indian workers to Europe.&nbsp;

'Elephant in the room'&nbsp;

It remains to be seen if&nbsp;India&nbsp;is now willing to drop an approach viewed as deeply protectionist by the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;to seal a deal this time around.

"It won't be easy or quick to reach," an official from the bloc told AFP.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/crucial-india-eu-summit-india-european-union-to-hold-key-virtual-trade-talks-383655/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

But growing tensions with China could create a new impetus for talks, with one diplomat calling Beijing "the elephant in the room".

For the&nbsp;EU, the push to restart negotiations comes as efforts to ratify an investment deal agreed with China that hit the buffers after relations soured over tit-for-tat sanctions.

"India&nbsp;for its part has also decided to invest more in its relations with the&nbsp;EU, driven in part by China's growing assertiveness and Brexit, requiring New Delhi to no longer see London as its sole entry point into&nbsp;'Europe',"&nbsp;EU&nbsp;foreign policy chief Josep Borrell wrote in a blog post.

Britain's departure from the bloc has also created another rival for Brussels as London makes its own play to bolster trade ties with&nbsp;India.

The British government said Tuesday it would start formal free talks with&nbsp;India&nbsp;later this year after the two sides agreed on an initial package to boost trade and investment.

The EU and India were set to bolster warming ties at a virtual summit Saturday by relaunching long-stalled trade talks and agreeing to work together against the coronavirus pandemic battering the south Asian giant.

The EU and India were set to bolster warming ties at a virtual summit Saturday by relaunching long-stalled trade talks and agreeing to work together against the coronavirus pandemic battering the south Asian giant. The devastating wave of infections sweeping India has already impacted the meeting by forcing Prime Minister Narendra Modi to scrap plans to fly to Portugal to see his European counterparts. But the 27-nation bloc and the world's largest democracy remain determined to capitalise on growing momentum for tighter relations fuelled by shared concerns over the rising might of China. "I am positive that we will be able to do a major step forward because between the EU and India there is a close relationship, but also a lot of untapped potential," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said as EU leaders gathered in Porto. "The most untapped potential is in trade and investment." EU countries have sent medical equipment and drugs worth an estimated 100 million euros ($120 million) to India as part of international efforts to help it fight against the flood of COVID-19 cases. The focus on the virus at the summit will be on making sure the two vaccine-producing powerhouses can maintain global supplies and monitoring the spread of variants, as well as on trying to plan together to tackle future pandemics. "We obviously need to work together to continue our efforts to ramp up production, secure the necessary raw materials, and keep supply chains open," a senior EU official said. "Leaders are going to commit to working together, to better prepare for and respond to global health emergencies, and this clearly includes strengthening and reforming the World Health Organization." Von der Leyen said the two sides would agree on a "common platform" on sequencing the Covid-19 virus to help keep track of any new variants that may emerge. Also read | Push on social issues as EU faces Covid fallout Waiving patents Modi could also push the EU on waiving patents for COVID-19 jabs after the US threw its weight behind the proposal. European Council chief Charles Michel said the bloc was willing to discuss the initiative once a concrete proposal was "on the table", but leaders have expressed scepticism about lifting patents. While the pandemic casts a long shadow over the summit, the key announcement is the restarting of talks on a free trade agreement that have been suspended since 2013. Von der Leyen said talks would restart on a trade pact and begin on separate deals to protect investments and regionally-specific products. She said that the two sides would also look to cooperate on developing cutting edge technologies including Artificial Intelligence and supercomputers. Negotiations on the trade deal were halted eight years ago after getting stuck on issues including cutting tariffs and access for Indian workers to Europe. 'Elephant in the room' It remains to be seen if India is now willing to drop an approach viewed as deeply protectionist by the EU to seal a deal this time around. "It won't be easy or quick to reach," an official from the bloc told AFP. But growing tensions with China could create a new impetus for talks, with one diplomat calling Beijing "the elephant in the room". For the EU, the push to restart negotiations comes as efforts to ratify an investment deal agreed with China that hit the buffers after relations soured over tit-for-tat sanctions. "India for its part has also decided to invest more in its relations with the EU, driven in part by China's growing assertiveness and Brexit, requiring New Delhi to no longer see London as its sole entry point into 'Europe'," EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell wrote in a blog post. Britain's departure from the bloc has also created another rival for Brussels as London makes its own play to bolster trade ties with India. The British government said Tuesday it would start formal free talks with India later this year after the two sides agreed on an initial package to boost trade and investment.

EU and India relaunch trade quest at COVID-hit summit

An official statement from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said that Modi expressed his appreciation of the EU and its member states for mobilizing rapid support for India’s fight against the second wave of covid-19.

PM Modi discusses Covid-19 situation with European Commission President

The European Commission’s first female President Ursula von der Leyen recently shed light on the sexism she faced during a meeting in Turkey on April 6. 
 
Von der Leyen was reportedly “hurt” after she was left without a chair at the meeting in Ankara.

Turkey faced criticism for the same, and so did EU Council President Charles Michel, who took the only seat available next to Turkish President Erdogan.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ursula-von-der-leyen-1st-woman-chief-of-european-union-265483/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Due to this, Von der Leyen was forced to sit on a sofa, an incident that has been referred to as “sofagate” since then.

During a speech to the European Parliament on Monday, she said that sexism lied at the root of the blunder.

The 62-year-old said that she wondered why she was treated differently from Michel, who has since then apologised for his role in “sofagate”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/wont-stop-pushing-for-gender-quotas-on-boards-says-eus-ursula-von-der-leyen-on-gender-pay-gap-368147" hreflang="en">Won't stop pushing for gender quotas on boards, says EU's Ursula von der Leyen on gender pay gap</a>

"I am the first woman to be President of the European Commission. I am the President of the European Commission. And this is how I expected to be treated when visiting Turkey two weeks ago, like a Commission President, but I was not," BBC quoted Von der Leyen as saying.

She further said that there could be no “justification” for the treatment. Based on this, she concluded that “it happened because I am a woman”. The ferocious leader went on to ask, “Would this have happened if I had worn a suit and a tie?”

The meeting in question took place to repair the relationship between the European Union and Turkey and talks took place in Erdogan’s presidential palace.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/after-australia-us-european-commission-chief-ursula-von-der-leyen-calls-for-probe-into-coronavirus-296166" hreflang="en">After Australia &amp; US, European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen calls for probe into coronavirus</a>

When the time arrived for the leaders to sit down, only two chairs appeared which were occupied by Michel and Erdogan.&nbsp; Leyen made her displeasure clear, as footage shows her letting out a very evident “ahem”.

Eventually, Von der Leyen sat down on a sofa away from Erdogan and facing the Turkish foreign foreign minister.

Soon after, comparisons sprouted between the “sofagate” meeting and a previous one which took place in Brussels in 2017 when both the heads of the European Commission and Council - both men sat in chairs beside the Turkish president.

The European Commission’s first female President Ursula von der Leyen recently shed light on the sexism she faced during a meeting in Turkey on April 6. Von der Leyen was reportedly “hurt” after she was left without a chair at the meeting in Ankara.

The European Commission’s first female President Ursula von der Leyen recently shed light on the sexism she faced during a meeting in Turkey on April 6. Von der Leyen was reportedly “hurt” after she was left without a chair at the meeting in Ankara. Turkey faced criticism for the same, and so did EU Council President Charles Michel, who took the only seat available next to Turkish President Erdogan. Due to this, Von der Leyen was forced to sit on a sofa, an incident that has been referred to as “sofagate” since then. During a speech to the European Parliament on Monday, she said that sexism lied at the root of the blunder. The 62-year-old said that she wondered why she was treated differently from Michel, who has since then apologised for his role in “sofagate”. Also read: Won't stop pushing for gender quotas on boards, says EU's Ursula von der Leyen on gender pay gap "I am the first woman to be President of the European Commission. I am the President of the European Commission. And this is how I expected to be treated when visiting Turkey two weeks ago, like a Commission President, but I was not," BBC quoted Von der Leyen as saying. She further said that there could be no “justification” for the treatment. Based on this, she concluded that “it happened because I am a woman”. The ferocious leader went on to ask, “Would this have happened if I had worn a suit and a tie?” The meeting in question took place to repair the relationship between the European Union and Turkey and talks took place in Erdogan’s presidential palace. Also read: After Australia & US, European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen calls for probe into coronavirus When the time arrived for the leaders to sit down, only two chairs appeared which were occupied by Michel and Erdogan. Leyen made her displeasure clear, as footage shows her letting out a very evident “ahem”. Eventually, Von der Leyen sat down on a sofa away from Erdogan and facing the Turkish foreign foreign minister. Soon after, comparisons sprouted between the “sofagate” meeting and a previous one which took place in Brussels in 2017 when both the heads of the European Commission and Council - both men sat in chairs beside the Turkish president.

EU chief Ursula von der Leyen blames sexism for 'sofagate' in Turkey

The European Union’s first female chief, Ursula von der Leyen, was left speechless after the president of the European Council, Charles Michel, the former Belgian prime minister and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan took the chairs, one of which was supposed to be Ursula’s.

Ursula was left shocked and can also be heard using the expression of “Uhm?” in the videos. As Michel refused to show any evidence of regret, Von der Leyen had to settle at the second-rank seat on the sofa opposite Turkey’s foreign minister.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
"Ehm" is the new term for "that’s not how EU-Turkey relationship should be". <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GiveHerASeat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GiveHerASeat</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EU?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EU</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Turkey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Turkey</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/womensrights?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#womensrights</a> <a href="https://t.co/vGVFutDu0S">pic.twitter.com/vGVFutDu0S</a>
— Sergey Lagodinsky (@SLagodinsky) <a href="https://twitter.com/SLagodinsky/status/1379483767161622535?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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An interesting thing is that the discussion was about women’s equal rights as Turkey had withdrawn from a convention on gender-based violence.

Even after such disrespect, the German head did not walk away from the meeting and continued raising her voice for equal rights. “The president’s assertiveness was clearly on display in that she did not walk away from the meeting, she took part in the meeting, and played her full role,” her spokesperson said.

This act has been taken as a breaking of the protocol as the rules for European Council’s President are similar to those of any country’s president.

“The president of the commission was clearly surprised and that is something you can see from the video … The protocol level of our president is exactly the same as that of the president of the European council,” Von der Leyen’s spokesperson said. “The president expects that the institution that she represents to be treated with the required protocol and she has therefore asked her team to take all appropriate contacts in order to ensure that such an incident does not occur in the future.”

Shortly after this, Italy’s Prime Minister Mario Draghi has accused the Turkish leader of humiliating his EU counterpart and has also labelled him a “dictator”.

“I absolutely do not agree with Erdoğan’s behavior towards president Von der Leyen … I think it was not appropriate behavior and I was very sorry for the humiliation Von der Leyen had to suffer,” Draghi said.

“With these, let’s call them what they are – dictators – with whom one nonetheless has to coordinate, one has to be frank when expressing different visions and opinions,” he added.

Soon after his remarks, the Italian ambassador to Ankara was summoned. The foreign minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu also struck back at Italy’s remarks.

“We strongly condemn the appointed Italian prime minister Draghi’s unacceptable, populist discourse and his ugly and unrestrained comments about our elected president,” Çavuşoğlu tweeted.

The European Union’s first female chief, Ursula von der Leyen, was left speechless after the president of the European Council, Charles Michel, the former Belgian prime minister and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan took the chairs, one of which was supposed to be Ursula’s.

The European Union’s first female chief, Ursula von der Leyen, was left speechless after the president of the European Council, Charles Michel, the former Belgian prime minister and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan took the chairs, one of which was supposed to be Ursula’s. Ursula was left shocked and can also be heard using the expression of “Uhm?” in the videos. As Michel refused to show any evidence of regret, Von der Leyen had to settle at the second-rank seat on the sofa opposite Turkey’s foreign minister. "Ehm" is the new term for "that’s not how EU-Turkey relationship should be". #GiveHerASeat #EU #Turkey #womensrights pic.twitter.com/vGVFutDu0S — Sergey Lagodinsky (@SLagodinsky) April 6, 2021 × An interesting thing is that the discussion was about women’s equal rights as Turkey had withdrawn from a convention on gender-based violence. Even after such disrespect, the German head did not walk away from the meeting and continued raising her voice for equal rights. “The president’s assertiveness was clearly on display in that she did not walk away from the meeting, she took part in the meeting, and played her full role,” her spokesperson said. This act has been taken as a breaking of the protocol as the rules for European Council’s President are similar to those of any country’s president. “The president of the commission was clearly surprised and that is something you can see from the video … The protocol level of our president is exactly the same as that of the president of the European council,” Von der Leyen’s spokesperson said. “The president expects that the institution that she represents to be treated with the required protocol and she has therefore asked her team to take all appropriate contacts in order to ensure that such an incident does not occur in the future.” Shortly after this, Italy’s Prime Minister Mario Draghi has accused the Turkish leader of humiliating his EU counterpart and has also labelled him a “dictator”. “I absolutely do not agree with Erdoğan’s behavior towards president Von der Leyen … I think it was not appropriate behavior and I was very sorry for the humiliation Von der Leyen had to suffer,” Draghi said. “With these, let’s call them what they are – dictators – with whom one nonetheless has to coordinate, one has to be frank when expressing different visions and opinions,” he added. Soon after his remarks, the Italian ambassador to Ankara was summoned. The foreign minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu also struck back at Italy’s remarks. “We strongly condemn the appointed Italian prime minister Draghi’s unacceptable, populist discourse and his ugly and unrestrained comments about our elected president,” Çavuşoğlu tweeted.

'Dictator': Turkey and Italy get into spat after EU chief left without chair during equal rights talk

EU Commission chief Ursula Von Der leyen left without a seat as Turkey President Erdogan & EU Council head Charles Michel snap up the only 2 chairs during Ankara meet. Confusion or Sexism?

'SofaGate': Turkish Sofa arrangement hits European Union

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