Source: European Parliament
The CULT Committee will vote its own INI report on a new vision for the European University Alliances, Rapporteur Laurence Farreng (FR, Renew). The report deals with the future of a flagship initiative of Erasmus+ that piloted the building of 65 different alliances with more than 570 higher education institutions of all types, from across Europe. The report looks at measures that could make these alliances sustainable.
Source: European Parliament
The European Youth Event (EYE2025) took place on 13 and 14 June in Strasbourg, offering a unique opportunity for young people to connect with policymakers and discuss their ideas for the future of Europe. Whether attending in person or participating online, EYE2025 allows young people to engage in meaningful conversations and share their perspectives on key issues.
One of the highlights of this year’s event was the CULT session, a dynamic conversation where Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) from the Committee on Culture and Education engaged directly with young participants. MEPs shared insights into their work, focusing on how they connect with youth and support young people across Europe. After the initial presentations, attendees will break into four discussion groups. MEPs will rotate between the groups, answering questions and discussing ways policymakers can better engage with young people. This interactive format offered a valuable opportunity for youth to directly influence how European leaders connect with the next generation.
Source: European Parliament
The Committee on Regional Development will have a European Citizens’ Initiative Public Hearing on ‘Cohesion policy for the equality of the regions and sustainability of the regional cultures’ on 25 June 2025, from 14:30-17:30. Three other parliamentary committees will participate in the hearing: Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, the Committee on Culture and Education and the Committee on Petitions. The programme and the webstreaming link are attached.
Source: European Parliament
The Committee on Regional Development will have a public hearing on ‘cohesion policy for the equality of the regions and sustainability of the regional cultures’. There will be participation from the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, the Committee on Culture and Education and the Committee on Petitions.
Source: European Investment Bank
The European Investment Bank (EIB) and the BPCE banking group have signed a €300 million loan agreement in favor of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the security and defence sector in France.
This is the first operation signed by the EIB in France as part of the recently announced €3 billion envelope to support companies active in the defence value chain. The EIB has increased intermediated loans and guarantees available for key defence-industry segment to €3 billion from €1 billion originally, and has signed a first deal with Deutsche Bank last week.
The loan granted to BPCE is specifically intended to address the financing needs of French SMEs investing in cybersecurity, surveillance, resilience, and new technologies related to defence.
Ambroise Fayolle, Vice-President of the EIB responsible for operations in France: “We are delighted to sign with BPCE the first agreement in France to support small and medium-sized enterprises active in the security and defence industry. To ensure the security of our continent, we must support the entire ecosystem of the defence industry, including companies present in the value chain, as they often have a significant impact on their territory in terms of innovation and employment.”
Robert de Groot, Vice-President of the EIB responsible for security and defence: “In the space of one week, two major operations have been signed between the EIB and European banking partners to support SMEs active in security and defence. Facilitating financing is a critical step toward unlocking the full potential of these companies in strengthening Europe’s strategic capabilities.”
Cédric Glorieux, Head of Products and Solutions Banque Populaire and Caisse d’Epargne: « We are very pleased that BPCE, through its network Banque Populaire and Caisse d’Epargne, is the first banking group in France to sign this strategic agreement with the EIB. This agreement underlines our determination to step up our support for French small and medium-sized enterprises in the defence sector. Thanks to this €300 million financing envelope, BPCE will play a key role in strengthening the competitiveness and innovation of French companies, while meeting the challenges of our country’s sovereignty. »
The €3 billion EIB envelope also follows the agreement between the EIB and the promotional institutions of France, Germany, Italy, Poland, and Spain to explore co-financing opportunities in support of the European security and defence industry. This cooperation, announced on June 6, aims to promote a pan-European vision in areas such as research, industrial capabilities, and infrastructure.
Background information
EIB
The European Investment Bank (EIB), whose shareholders are the Member States of the European Union (EU), is the EU’s long-term financing institution. Across eight major priorities, we support investments that contribute to achieving the EU’s key objectives. In 2024, the EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing in support of more than 900 high-impact projects, thereby strengthening Europe’s competitiveness and security. In France, the EIB Group signed more than one hundred operations in 2024 for a total amount of €12.6 billion, which made it possible to mobilize €62 billion in investments in the real economy. Nearly 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation and adaptation. More information about the EIB Group financing for security and defence is available here.
Media services can find recent high-resolution photos of our headquarters in Luxembourg here.
Groupe BPCE
Groupe BPCE is the second-largest banking group in France and the fourth-largest in the euro zone in terms of capital. Through its 100,000 staff, the group serves 35 million customers – individuals, professionals, companies, investors and local government bodies – around the world. It operates in the retail banking and insurance fields in France via its two major networks, Banque Populaire and Caisse d’Epargne, along with Banque Palatine and Oney. It also pursues its activities worldwide with the asset & wealth management services provided by Natixis Investment Managers and the wholesale banking expertise of Natixis Corporate & Investment Banking. The Group’s financial strength is recognized by four credit rating agencies with the following senior preferred LT ratings: Moody’s (A1, stable outlook), Standard & Poor’s (A+, stable outlook), Fitch (A+, stable outlook) and R&I (A+, stable outlook).
Source: European Parliament
THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 194 thereof,
Having regard to the proposal from the European Commission,
After transmission of the draft legislative act to the national parliaments,
Having regard to the opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee(1),
After consulting the Committee of the Regions,
Acting in accordance with the ordinary legislative procedure(2),
Whereas:
(1) In its judgment of 2 September 2021 in case C‑741/19(3), Republic of Moldova v Komstroy (the ‘Komstroy judgment’), the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) held that Article 26(2), point (c), of the Energy Charter Treaty, approved on behalf of the European Communities by Council and Commission Decision 98/181/EC, ECSC, Euratom(4), is to be interpreted as not being applicable to disputes between a Member State and an investor of another Member State concerning an investment made by that investor in the first Member State, i.e. intra-EU disputes.
(2) Despite the Komstroy judgment, arbitral tribunals have continued to accept jurisdiction and to issue awards in intra-EU arbitration proceedings which are purportedly based on Article 26(2), point (c), of the Energy Charter Treaty. According to the CJEU, any such award is incompatible with Union law, in particular Articles 267 and 344 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. Therefore, such awards cannot produce legal effects and the payment of compensation further to those awards cannot be enforced.
(3) The effective implementation of Union law is being undermined by the issuing of awards violating Union law in intra-EU arbitration proceedings. There is a risk of a conflict between the Treaties, on the one hand, and the Energy Charter Treaty as interpreted by some arbitral tribunals, on the other, which would, if confirmed by the courts of a third country, become a de facto legal conflict where such awards were circulating in the legal orders of third countries.
(4) According to the case law of the CJEU, the risk of a legal conflict is sufficient to render an international agreement incompatible with Union law. The risk of such a conflict between the Treaties and the Energy Charter Treaty should therefore be eliminated. The adoption of an instrument of international law, in the form of an agreement setting out the common understanding of the parties to that agreement on the non-applicability of Article 26 of the Energy Charter Treaty as a basis for intra-EU arbitration proceedings, would help to eliminate that risk.
(5) The Commission, on behalf of the Union, and the ▌ Member States have ▌ concluded negotiations on the terms of an agreement on the interpretation and application of the Energy Charter Treaty. The common understanding contained in that agreement has been reiterated in the ‘Declaration on the legal consequences of the judgment of the Court of Justice in Komstroy and common understanding on the non-applicability of Article 26 of the Energy Charter Treaty as a basis for intra-EU arbitration proceedings’ of 26 June 2024(5).
(6) The Agreement on the interpretation and application of the Energy Charter Treaty should therefore be approved in order to enable its signature by the Union and to express the Union’s consent to be bound by it,
HAVE ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
Article 1
The Agreement on the interpretation and application of the Energy Charter Treaty accompanying this Decision is hereby approved.
Article 2
This Decision shall enter into force on the twentieth day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.
Done at …,
For the European Parliament For the Council
The President The President
AGREEMENT ON THE INTERPRETATION
AND APPLICATION OF THE ENERGY CHARTER TREATY ▌
▌
THE KINGDOM OF BELGIUM,
THE REPUBLIC OF BULGARIA,
THE CZECH REPUBLIC,
THE KINGDOM OF DENMARK,
THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY,
THE REPUBLIC OF ESTONIA,
IRELAND,
THE HELLENIC REPUBLIC,
THE KINGDOM OF SPAIN,
THE FRENCH REPUBLIC,
THE REPUBLIC OF CROATIA,
THE ITALIAN REPUBLIC,
THE REPUBLIC OF CYPRUS,
THE REPUBLIC OF LATVIA,
THE REPUBLIC OF LITHUANIA,
THE GRAND DUCHY OF LUXEMBOURG,
THE REPUBLIC OF MALTA,
THE KINGDOM OF THE NETHERLANDS,
THE REPUBLIC OF AUSTRIA,
THE REPUBLIC OF POLAND,
THE PORTUGUESE REPUBLIC,
ROMANIA,
THE REPUBLIC OF SLOVENIA,
THE SLOVAK REPUBLIC,
THE REPUBLIC OF FINLAND,
THE KINGDOM OF SWEDEN and
THE EUROPEAN UNION ▌
▌
hereinafter jointly referred to as the ‘Parties’
HAVING in mind the Energy Charter Treaty, signed in Lisbon on 17 December 1994(6) and approved on behalf of the European Communities by Council and Commission Decision 98/181/EC, ECSC, Euratom on 23 September 1997(7), as last amended ,
HAVING in mind the rules of customary international law as codified in the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, done at Vienna on 23 May 1969,
CONSIDERING that the members of a Regional Economic Integration Organisation within the meaning of Article 1, point 3, of the Energy Charter Treaty hereby express a common understanding on the interpretation and application of a treaty in their inter se relations,
RECALLING that withdrawal from the Energy Charter Treaty does not affect the composition of the Regional Economic Integration Organisation referred to in that Treaty, nor does it preclude an interest in expressing a common understanding on the interpretation and application of that Treaty for as long as it may be held to produce legal effects in relation to a Party that withdrew, and in particular in respect of Article 47(3) of the Energy Charter Treaty,
HAVING in mind the Treaty on European Union (TEU), the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) ▌ and the general principles of European Union ▌ law,
CONSIDERING that the references to the European Union in this Agreement are to be understood also as references to its predecessor, the European Economic Community and, subsequently, the European Community, until the latter was superseded by the European Union,
RECALLING that, in line with the case-law of the Permanent Court of International Justice(8) and of the International Court of Justice(9), the right of giving an authoritative interpretation of a legal rule belongs to the parties to an international agreement in relation to that agreement,
RECALLING that the Member States of the European Union (‘Member States’) have assigned the right of giving authoritative interpretations of Union ▌law to the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU), as explained by the CJEU in its judgment of 30 May 2006 in case C-459/03, Commission v Ireland (Mox Plant)(10), which held that the exclusive competence to interpret and apply Union ▌law extends to the interpretation and application of international agreements to which the European Union and its Member States are parties in the case of a dispute between two Member States or between the European Union and a Member State,
RECALLING that, in accordance with Article 344 TFEU ▌, Member States undertake not to submit a dispute concerning the interpretation or application of the Treaties to a method of settlement other than those provided for therein,
RECALLING that in its judgment of 6 March 2018 in case C-284/16, Achmea(11), the CJEU held that Articles 267 and 344 TFEU must be interpreted as precluding a provision in an international agreement concluded between Member States under which an investor from one of those Member States may, in the event of a dispute concerning investments in the other Member State, bring proceedings against the latter Member State before an arbitral tribunal whose jurisdiction that Member State has undertaken to accept,
RECALLING the consistently reiterated position of the European Union that the Energy Charter Treaty was not meant to apply in intra-EU relations and that it was not, and could not have been, the intention of the European Union, of the European Atomic Energy Community and of their Member States that the Energy Charter Treaty would create any obligations among them since it was negotiated as an instrument of the European Union’s external energy policy with a view to establishing a framework for energy cooperation with third countries whereas, by contrast, the European Union’s internal energy policy consists of an elaborate system of rules designed to create an internal market in the field of energy which exclusively regulates relations between Member States in that field,
RECALLING that in its judgment of 2 September 2021 in case C-741/19, Republic of Moldova v Komstroy(12) (the ‘Komstroy judgment’), as confirmed in its opinion of 16 June 2022, 1/20(13), the CJEU held that Article 26(2), point (c), of the Energy Charter Treaty must be interpreted as not being applicable to disputes between a Member State and an investor of another Member State concerning an investment made by the latter in the former Member State,
RECALLING that, as an interpretation by the competent court and reflecting a general principle of public international law, the interpretation of the Energy Charter Treaty in the Komstroy judgment applies as of the approval of the Energy Charter Treaty by the European Communities and their Member States,
CONSIDERING that Articles 267 and 344 TFEU must be interpreted as precluding an interpretation of Article 26 of the Energy Charter Treaty that allows for disputes between, on the one hand, an investor of one Member State and, on the other hand, another Member State or the European Union ▌to be resolved before an arbitral tribunal (‘intra-EU arbitration proceedings’),
CONSIDERING, in any event, that, where a dispute between, on the one hand, an investor of one Member State and, on the other hand, another Member State or the European Union cannot be settled amicably, a party to that dispute may as always choose to submit it for resolution to the competent courts or administrative tribunals in accordance with national law, as guaranteed by general principles of law and respect for fundamental rights enshrined, inter alia, in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union,
SHARING the common understanding expressed in this Agreement ▌that, as a result, a clause such as Article 26 of the Energy Charter Treaty could not in the past and cannot now or in the future serve as the legal basis for arbitration proceedings initiated by an investor from one Member State concerning investments in another Member State,
REITERATING Declaration No 17 concerning primacy, annexed to the Final Act of the Intergovernmental Conference which adopted the Treaty of Lisbon, which recalls that the Treaties and the law adopted by the Union on the basis of the Treaties have primacy over the law of the Member States, and that the principle of primacy constitutes a conflict rule in their mutual relations,
RECALLING, consequently, that, in order to resolve any conflict of norms, an international agreement concluded by the Member States under international law may apply in intra-EU relations only to the extent that its provisions are compatible with the EU Treaties,
CONSIDERING that, as a result of the non-applicability of Article 26 of the Energy Charter Treaty as a legal basis for intra-EU arbitration proceedings, Article 47(3) of the Energy Charter Treaty cannot extend, and was not intended to extend, to such proceedings,
CONSIDERING that, as a result of the non-applicability of Article 26 of the Energy Charter Treaty as a legal basis for intra-EU arbitration proceedings, Parties▌ that are concerned by pending intra-EU arbitration proceedings, whether as respondent or as the Member State of an investor, should cooperate in order to ensure that the existence of this Agreement is brought to the attention of the arbitral tribunal concerned to allow the appropriate conclusion to be drawn as to the absence of jurisdiction of that tribunal,
CONSIDERING, in addition, that no new intra-EU arbitration proceedings should be registered, and AGREEING that, where a notice of arbitration is nevertheless delivered, the ▌ Parties that are concerned by those proceedings, whether as respondent or as the Member State of an investor, should cooperate in order to ensure that the existence of this Agreement is brought to the attention of the arbitral tribunal concerned to allow the appropriate conclusion to be drawn that Article 26 of the Energy Charter Treaty cannot serve as a legal basis for such proceedings,
CONSIDERING, nevertheless, that settlements and awards in intra-EU investment arbitration cases that can no longer be annulled or set aside and that were voluntarily complied with or definitively enforced should not be challenged,
REGRETTING that arbitral awards have already been rendered, continue to be rendered and could still be rendered, by arbitral tribunals in intra-EU arbitration proceedings initiated with reference to Article 26 of the Energy Charter Treaty, in a manner contrary to European Union law▌, including as expressed in the case-law of the CJEU,
also REGRETTING that such arbitral awards are the subject of enforcement proceedings, including in third countries, that in pending intra-EU arbitration proceedings purportedly based on Article 26 of the Energy Charter Treaty arbitral tribunals do not decline competence and jurisdiction, and that arbitral institutions continue to register new arbitration proceedings and do not reject them as manifestly inadmissible due to lack of consent to submit to arbitration,
CONSIDERING, therefore, that it is necessary to reiterate, expressly and unambiguously, the consistent position of the Parties by means of an agreement reaffirming their common understanding on the interpretation and application of the Energy Charter Treaty, as interpreted by the CJEU, to the extent that it concerns intra-EU arbitration proceedings,
CONSIDERING that, in accordance with the judgment of the International Court of Justice of 5 February 1970, Barcelona Traction, Light and Power Company, Limited(14), and as explained by the CJEU in the Komstroy judgment, certain provisions of the Energy Charter Treaty are intended to govern bilateral relations,
CONSIDERING therefore that this Agreement only concerns bilateral relationships between the Parties and, by extension, investors from those Member States as Contracting Parties to the Energy Charter Treaty, and that, as a result, this Agreement affects only those Contracting Parties to the Energy Charter Treaty that are governed by the law of the European Union▌ as a Regional Economic Integration Organisation within the meaning of Article 1, point 3, of the Energy Charter Treaty and does not affect the enjoyment by the other Contracting Parties to the Energy Charter Treaty of their rights under that Treaty or the performance of their obligations,
RECALLING that the Parties have informed the ▌ Contracting Parties to the Energy Charter Treaty of their intention to conclude this Agreement,
CONSIDERING that by concluding this Agreement and in line with their legal obligations under European Union ▌law, but without prejudice to their right to make such claims as they consider appropriate in relation to costs incurred by them as respondents in relation to intra-EU arbitration proceedings, the Parties ensure full and effective compliance with the Komstroy judgment, and underline the unenforceability of existing arbitral awards, the obligation for arbitral tribunals to immediately terminate any pending intra-EU arbitration proceedings, the obligation for arbitral institutions not to register any future intra-EU arbitration proceedings, in line with their respective powers under Article 36(3) of the Convention on the Settlement of Investment Disputes between States and Nationals of Other States (‘ICSID’), concluded in Washington on 18 March 1965, and Article 12 of the Stockholm Chamber of Commerce (‘SCC’) arbitration rules, and the obligation for arbitral tribunals to declare that any intra-EU arbitration proceedings sought to be registered before them lack a legal basis,
UNDERSTANDING that this Agreement covers investor-State arbitration proceedings involving the ▌Parties in intra-EU disputes based on Article 26 of the Energy Charter Treaty under any arbitration convention or set of rules, including ICSID and the ICSID arbitration rules, the Arbitration Institute of the SCC arbitration rules, the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law arbitration rules and ad hoc arbitration, and
BEARING in mind that the provisions of this Agreement are without prejudice to the right of the European Commission or any Member State to bring an action before the CJEU based on Articles 258, 259 and 260 TFEU,
HAVE AGREED AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1
Common understanding on the non-applicability of article 26 of the Energy Charter Treaty as a basis for Intra-EU arbitration proceedings
Article 1
Definitions
For the purposes of this Agreement, the following definitions shall apply:
(1) “Energy Charter Treaty” means the Energy Charter Treaty signed at Lisbon on 17 December 1994 and approved on behalf of the European Communities by Decision 98/181/EC, ECSC, Euratom on 23 September 1997, as it may be amended from time to time;
(2) “intra-EU relations” means relations between Member States ▌ or between a Member State and the European Union ▌;
(3) “intra-EU arbitration proceedings” means any proceedings before an arbitral tribunal initiated with reference to Article 26 of the Energy Charter Treaty to resolve a dispute between, on the one hand, an investor of one Member State and, on the other hand, another Member State or the European Union ▌.
Article 2
Common understanding ▌on the interpretation and continued non-applicability of Article 26 of the Energy Charter Treaty and the lack of legal basis for intra-EU arbitration proceedings
1. The ▌ Parties hereby reaffirm, for greater certainty, that they share a common understanding on the interpretation and application of the Energy Charter Treaty according to which Article 26 of that Treaty cannot and never could serve as a legal basis for intra-EU arbitration proceedings.
The common understanding expressed in the first subparagraph is based on the following elements of European Union law:
(a) the interpretation by the CJEU of Article 26 of the Energy Charter Treaty to mean that that provision does not apply, and should never have been applied, as a basis for intra-EU arbitration proceedings; and
(b) the primacy of European Union law, recalled in Declaration No 17, annexed to the Final Act of the Intergovernmental Conference which adopted the Treaty of Lisbon, as a rule of international law governing conflict of norms in their mutual relations, with the result that, in any event, Article 26 of the Energy Charter Treaty does not and could not apply as a basis for intra-EU arbitration proceedings.
2. The ▌ Parties reaffirm, for greater certainty, that they share the common understanding that, as a result of the absence of a legal basis for intra-EU arbitration proceedings pursuant to Article 26 of the Energy Charter Treaty, Article 47(3) of the Energy Charter Treaty does not extend, and could not have extended at any time, to such proceedings. Accordingly, Article 47(3) of the Energy Charter Treaty cannot have produced legal effects in intra-EU relations when a Member State withdrew from the Energy Charter Treaty prior to the conclusion of this Agreement and would not produce legal effects in intra-EU relations if a ▌ Party withdrew from the Energy Charter Treaty subsequently.
3. For greater certainty, the ▌ Parties are in agreement that, in accordance with the common understanding expressed in paragraphs 1 and 2 of this Article, and without prejudice thereto, Article 26 of the Energy Charter Treaty does not apply as a basis for intra-EU arbitration proceedings and Article 47(3) of the Energy Charter Treaty does not produce legal effects in intra-EU relations.
4. Paragraphs 1 to 3 are without prejudice to the interpretation and application of other provisions of the Energy Charter Treaty to the extent that they concern intra-EU relations.
SECTION 2
Final Provisions
Article 3
Depositary
1. The Secretary-General of the Council of the European Union shall act as depositary of this Agreement (the ‘Depositary’).
2. The Depositary shall notify the ▌ Parties of:
(a) the deposit of any instrument of ratification, approval or acceptance in accordance with Article 5;
(b) the date of entry into force of this Agreement in accordance with Article 6(1);
(c) the date of entry into force of this Agreement for each ▌ Party in accordance with Article 6(2).
3. The Depositary shall publish this Agreement in the Official Journal of the European Union and notify the depositary of the Energy Charter Treaty, as well as the Energy Charter Secretariat, of its adoption and entry into force.
4. The Depositary shall invite the depositary of the Energy Charter Treaty to notify this Agreement to the other Contracting Parties to the Energy Charter Treaty.
5. This Agreement shall be registered by the Depositary with the United Nations Secretariat, in accordance with Article 102 of the Charter of the United Nations, following its entry into force.
Article 4
Reservations
No reservations shall be made to this Agreement.
Article 5
Ratification, approval or acceptance
This Agreement shall be subject to ratification, approval or acceptance.
The ▌ Parties shall deposit their instruments of ratification, approval or acceptance with the Depositary.
Article 6
Entry into force
1. This Agreement shall enter into force 30 calendar days after the date on which the Depositary receives the second instrument of ratification, approval or acceptance.
2. For each ▌ Party which ratifies, approves or accepts it after its entry into force in accordance with paragraph 1, this Agreement shall enter into force 30 calendar days after the date of deposit by such ▌ Party of its instrument of ratification, approval or acceptance.
Article 7
Authentic texts
This Agreement, drawn up in a single original in the Bulgarian, Croatian, Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, Estonian, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hungarian, Irish, Italian, Latvian, Lithuanian, Maltese, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Slovak, Slovenian, Spanish and Swedish languages, each text being equally authentic, shall be deposited in the archives of the Depositary.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned Plenipotentiaries, duly authorised to this effect, have signed this Agreement.
Done at …, this … day of … in the year …
For the Kingdom of Belgium,
For the Republic of Bulgaria,
For the Czech Republic,
For the Kingdom of Denmark,
For the Federal Republic of Germany,
For the Republic of Estonia,
For Ireland,
For the Hellenic Republic,
For the Kingdom of Spain,
For the French Republic,
For the Republic of Croatia,
For the Italian Republic,
For the Republic of Cyprus,
For the Republic of Latvia,
For the Republic of Lithuania,
For the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg,
For the Republic of Malta,
For the Kingdom of the Netherlands,
For the Republic of Austria,
For the Republic of Poland,
For the Portuguese Republic,
For Romania,
For the Republic of Slovenia,
For the Slovak Republic,
For the Republic of Finland,
For the Kingdom of Sweden and
For the European Union
__________________
|
Source: European Parliament
On 25 June, from 14:30 to 16:15, the FISC Subcommittee will host a joint public hearing with the SEDE Committee on “The European Defence Union: Tax Matters”. The hearing will focus on the legislative framework governing VAT exemptions for defence-related activities carried out under the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP).
It will examine the 2015 Council Decision granting VAT exemptions to NATO and EU agencies for defence efforts supporting the implementation of Union activities, and assess how effectively Member States are applying these provisions. In particular, the discussion will explore the cooperation mechanisms between the European Commission, national Ministries of Finance, and Ministries of Defence in ensuring consistent and compliant implementation of the VAT exemptions. The panel will also address the operational and administrative challenges encountered in the field. The insights gathered will contribute to the broader debate on strengthening the fiscal framework underpinning European defence initiatives, including the European Defence Industry Programme (EDIP) and upcoming measures under the ReArm Europe Plan and Readiness 2030 strategy.
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002317/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Sebastian Everding (The Left), Rudi Kennes (The Left)
The 2025 Commission Work Programme signals a continued shift toward fully digital systems, which may inadvertently stigmatise or marginalise traditional, inclusive formats such as printed materials. These remain essential for many sectors and population groups, including older citizens, digitally underserved communities, persons with disabilities, individuals with limited digital access and those concerned about privacy.
The phasing out of the requirement for paper-based options in EU communication strategies raises concerns about accessibility, environmental impact and individuals’ right to choose their preferred communication method. While digital innovation is welcome, it remains unclear whether this shift adequately considers the diverse needs of European citizens and organisations.
Submitted: 10.6.2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002316/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Marie Toussaint (Verts/ALE)
On 2 June, the French National Conference of Regional Unions of Health Professionals and General Practitioners alerted the authorities to the exposure of the French population to cadmium. France, along with Poland, Spain and Portugal, is among the European countries most affected by this toxic substance. Children are particularly susceptible to it and the incidence of related pancreatic cancers is exploding.
Cadmium, contained in phosphate rock used for fertiliser production, is found in cereals, potatoes and leaf vegetables.
While the EU plans to gradually reduce exposure standards, France has just adopted much higher thresholds than those which should apply by 2034, which risks prolonging the contamination for several decades due to the persistence of cadmium in the environment.
In this context, several questions arise:
Submitted: 10.6.2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002387/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Anna Bryłka (PfE)
Please provide information about the progress and state of play of the negotiations on the new EU-Ukraine trade conditions following the expiry of the transitional provisions under Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1132 of 3 June 2025 amending Implementing Regulations (EU) 2020/761 and (EU) 2020/1988 as regards tariff quotas for products originating in Ukraine in 2025.
Submitted: 13.6.2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002312/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Mariateresa Vivaldini (ECR), Carlo Fidanza (ECR), Daniele Polato (ECR), Stefano Cavedagna (ECR), Elena Donazzan (ECR), Giuseppe Milazzo (ECR), Nicola Procaccini (ECR), Alberico Gambino (ECR), Sergio Berlato (ECR), Paolo Inselvini (ECR), Giovanni Crosetto (ECR), Michele Picaro (ECR), Chiara Gemma (ECR), Pietro Fiocchi (ECR)
African swine fever (ASF) is a dynamic disease which requires the list of restricted zones to be constantly updated. It is vital that these restrictions be promptly lifted if an area has successfully countered ASF by means of biosecurity measures, intensive surveillance, culls, carcass removals and the fencing and containment of wild boar and if an appropriate period of time has elapsed without any new outbreaks – a good example being the area east of the A1 motorway in Italy, which is currently classed as a type III restricted zone.
Even that would not be enough to protect the pig farmers who have been affected, particularly as regards the serious indirect damages they are sustaining: in addition to not being able to work, breed pigs or export to foreign markets, they are grappling with unsustainable fixed costs, the depreciation and forced removal of their livestock and speculation by slaughterhouses. The survival of many companies and of the entire Italian PDO sector is at stake.
In the light of the above:
Submitted: 10.6.2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002309/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Galato Alexandraki (ECR)
According to complaints from exporting entities, the necessary customs controls on fresh fruit and vegetable imports are not being applied in Greece, resulting in a violation of the European entry price system and unfair competition for Greek producers.
For example, in the first quarter of 2025, 1 271 tonnes of oranges were imported from Egypt but registered as of Bulgarian and Romanian origin, artificially increasing their price from EUR 0.43 to EUR 0.83 per kilo, without the imposition of duties. In 2024, a total of 861 000 tonnes of fruit and vegetables were imported, of which 155 000 tonnes were not registered by the Ministry of Rural Development. Similarly, out of 1 790 000 tonnes of exports, 150 000 tonnes are of unspecified origin, demonstrating a serious lack of interoperability with the Hellenic Statistical Authority.
In view of the above:
Submitted: 10.6.2025
Source: European Parliament
In accordance with the Financial Regulation[1], the Commission ensures that recipients of EU funds comply with legal provisions on the protection of EU financial interests.
In case of breach of these obligations, the Commission may take several measures, as outlined in the grant agreement signed by the beneficiaries with the responsible National Agency (NA). These measures include grant reduction to payment suspension, suspension or termination of the grant agreement, and recovery of the paid grant amount.
In the event of suspicion of an exclusion situation, the Commission flags the relevant entity in the Early Detection and Exclusion System. When the Commission becomes aware of any suspected cases of fraud, corruption or any other illegal activity affecting the EU budget, it informs the European Anti-Fraud Office and, where applicable, the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO).
Since the introduction of simplified cost options, the risk of irregularity has been reduced to under 2% of the overall annual amount implemented. Accreditation of grant beneficiaries and the reduction in the maximum number of applications per beneficiary have also help lower the overall error risk.
NAs monitor Erasmus+ projects under the supervision of the Commission, which then analyses data from NAs to reinforce such monitoring mechanisms. Finally, the Commission also assists NAs in addressing recipients where there is greater financial or reputational risk, including via supervisory visits and audits.
Source: European Parliament
In the EU, 43.1% of persons in a household with one adult and dependent children are at risk of poverty or social exclusion (against 21% of the total population) in 2024. The Commission acknowledges the importance of the challenge.
To tackle child poverty, the Commission Recommendation ‘Investing in children: breaking the cycle of disadvantage[1]’ calls for multi-dimensional strategies, with a focus on households at risk of poverty, such as single parent families.
It stresses the need to ensure adequate resources, through support to parents’ participation in the labour market and benefits, and access to quality services.
The Council Recommendation establishing a European Child Guarantee[2] asks Member States to guarantee access of children in need, including children living in a single-earner household, to a set of key quality services.
The Council Recommendation on adequate minimum income ensuring active inclusion[3] recognises the specificity of single-parent households, and encourages Member States to facilitate take-up of adequate minimum income schemes.
EU funding (e.g. the European Social Fund +) is available to support Member States in these efforts. The Commission expects to adopt in 2026 the first ever EU Anti-Poverty Strategy announced in the 2024-2029 Political Guidelines[4].
The strategy will address the systemic, different drivers of poverty. It will look into what works through a lifecycle approach to addressing poverty risks. Preparation is ongoing and public consultation planned.
Source: European Parliament
pursuant to Rules 150(5) and 136(4) of the Rules of Procedure
replacing the following motions:
B10‑0291/2025 (Renew)
B10‑0294/2025 (S&D), (Verts/ALE)
B10‑0297/2025 (PPE)
B10‑0298/2025 (ECR)
Sebastião Bugalho, Christophe Gomart, David McAllister, Željana Zovko, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Isabel Wiseler‑Lima, Tomas Tobé, Miriam Lexmann, Andrey Kovatchev, Michał Wawrykiewicz, Dariusz Joński, Loránt Vincze, Danuše Nerudová, Mirosława Nykiel, Antonio López‑Istúriz White, Davor Ivo Stier, Luděk Niedermayer, Liudas Mažylis, Inese Vaidere
on behalf of the PPE Group
Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Laura Ballarín Cereza
on behalf of the S&D Group
Adam Bielan, Aurelijus Veryga, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Diego Solier, Nora Junco García, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Alexandr Vondra, Veronika Vrecionová, Ondřej Krutílek, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, Bogdan Rzońca, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Assita Kanko, Marlena Maląg, Waldemar Tomaszewski
on behalf of the ECR Group
Nathalie Loiseau, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Benoit Cassart, Olivier Chastel, Engin Eroglu, Svenja Hahn, Karin Karlsbro, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Jan‑Christoph Oetjen, Urmas Paet, Marie‑Agnes Strack‑Zimmermann, Hilde Vautmans, Yvan Verougstraete, Lucia Yar
on behalf of the Renew Group
Catarina Vieira
on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group
European Parliament resolution on the dissolution of political parties and the crackdown on the opposition in Mali
The European Parliament,
– having regard to Rules 150(5) and 136(4) of its Rules of Procedure,
A. whereas the military has ruled Mali since the 2020 coup that installed General Assimi Goïta as transitional president, and the repeatedly promised elections have not taken place;
B. whereas on 13 May 2025, the military authorities dissolved political parties and organisations and repealed laws protecting political participation, sparking domestic protests and international concern over the consolidation of authoritarian rule and repression and criminalisation of the opposition and protesters;
C. whereas recent abductions and arrests of opposition members have added to the enforced disappearances dating back to at least 2021, and the military junta has intensified its repression of the political opposition and civil liberties;
D. whereas on 11 June 2025, the Malian Council of Ministers adopted a bill authorising a five-year renewable mandate for the transitional president without election;
E. whereas the EU continues to support civil society and provide humanitarian aid in Mali;
F. whereas al-Qaeda-affiliated Islamist terrorist groups have been killing civilians, including Christians and people from other religious minorities;
G. whereas the EU and several Member States have deployed troops who have lost their lives fighting jihadism at the request of the former Malian authorities;
H. whereas Mali is negatively affected by Russian disinformation;
1. Expresses deep concern about the alarming political and security situation in Mali; strongly condemns the dissolution of political parties and organisations and the crackdown on the opposition;
2. Criticises the Malian authorities’ intensified actions undermining democracy, human rights, freedom of expression and association, and peaceful assembly;
3. Urges the Malian authorities to respect international human rights law and Mali’s signed commitments on political and civil rights;
4. Recalls the transitional president’s instruction to his cabinet in November 2024 to create conditions for transparent and peaceful elections as soon as possible;
5. Urges the authorities to immediately release those arrested or abducted for political reasons, permanently end repression and intimidation, guarantee the safety of opposition members, activists and civil society actors, and ensure peace and stability in Mali;
6. Notes with regret that Mali is still plagued by violence and Islamist terrorism; recalls that Russian-sponsored mercenaries have failed to bring stability; calls for ensuring accountability for rights violations and abuses, including war crimes committed by the Wagner Group/Africa Corps against the Malian people;
7. Encourages closer cooperation between the EU, the EUSR for the Sahel, ECOWAS and the African Union in promoting stability and human rights in Mali;
8. Underlines the EU’s clear support for restoring multi-party democracy, providing assistance to civil society and democratic actors and ensuring that human rights are the main priority for EU support under the renewed approach to the Sahel region;
9. Calls on the VP/HR and the Member States to raise with the Malian authorities the urgent need to restore democratic order and protect human rights;
10. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the VP/HR, Mali’s transitional president, the Malian National Assembly, the African Union and ECOWAS.
Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland
Statement from TUV Braid Christopher Jamieson:
“I have been contacted by a number of constituents who are deeply concerned about the apparent discrepancy in how police bail has been handled following the serious sectarian rioting in Londonderry last night, compared to the arrests made in Ballymena last week.
“It appears that some of those arrested in Londonderry were released on police bail, whereas those detained in Ballymena were charged, brought before the courts, and refused bail.
“There are even reports of juveniles from Ballymena being remanded in custody, while a very different approach seems to have been taken in Londonderry.
“Such disparity does nothing to ease tensions and only fuels the perception of a two-tier system of justice.
“The criminal justice system must not only be fair, but must also be seen to be fair. People must not be left with the impression that the disorder in Londonderry — which the Chief Constable himself described as “blatant sectarian violence” — is being treated more leniently.
“Londonderry has long been plagued, particularly at this time of year, by violence directed towards its minority Protestant population. It is high time that this was dealt with with the seriousness it deserves — not only by the police and the courts, but by the media as well.
“To that end, I have written formally to both the Chief Constable and the Director of Public Prosecutions to seek urgent clarification on why such differing approaches appear to have been taken. The public deserves transparency and reassurance that the law is applied consistently, without fear or favour.”
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –
Photo: Dmitry Orlov / Fornd Roscongress
One of the key topics of the business program of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, which is taking place from June 18 to 21, was the development of education and personnel training. At the session “Personnel shortage and strategies for overcoming it”, held within the framework of the forum of small and medium entrepreneurship, Senior Director of the National Research University Higher School of Economics Andrey Lavrov spoke about the role of additional professional education in solving the personnel problem.
Opening the discussion, session moderator Sergei Nuzhdin, member of the presidium of the board of the All-Russian public organization of small and medium-sized businesses “OPORA RUSSIA”, called the shortage of personnel one of the most pressing problems of the country and the economy as a whole.
Andrey Lavrov noted that this problem needs to be solved here and now, so it would be wrong to talk about long-term strategies, including changes in approaches to university education, in this context. “A university is not a supplier of personnel to the labor market, but an environment that creates people who are able to respond to changes at different periods of their lives and careers,” he noted.
According to the senior director of the National Research University Higher School of Economics, additional professional education helps to respond correctly to these changes. At HSE, the portfolio of additional professional education programs is formed taking into account the demands of consumers, which can be divided into two halves. The first half are employers who contact the university with a request to train their employees, the second are people who want to independently develop their qualifications.
“We focus primarily on such people. If we take the broadest possible view, their age is from 25 to 45 years old, that is, they are not yesterday’s students,” Andrey Lavrov clarified. It is clear that, for example, AI technologies, for which they have demand today, were impossible to master earlier, within the framework of higher education, because such technologies did not exist at all.
“We slightly underestimate the system of additional education. I am deeply convinced that a person’s educational trajectory, starting in early childhood, should in no case end with receiving a diploma of higher education. In order for each person to be competitive, so that the problem of personnel shortage does not arise, it is necessary to form a culture of continuous education of people,” says Andrei Lavrov.
“The challenge and responsibility of universities is to create continuing education programs that, on the one hand, people need, and on the other hand, make them more competitive,” concluded the senior director of the HSE.
Other approaches to solving the personnel problem were also considered at the session.
Vladislav Grib, Deputy Secretary of the Public Chamber of the Russian Federation, proposed creating Russian colleges and universities in friendly countries and giving their graduates priority when finding employment in our country.
Sergei Morozov, State Duma deputy and federal coordinator of the “Choose Your Own” project, spoke about the national project “Personnel”, comparing the conditions for its implementation with the era of the first five-year plans.
Alexander Vaino, Director of the Young Professionals Department at the Agency for Strategic Initiatives, focused on developing the interest of young people in working at strategically important enterprises, primarily industrial ones, in their regions.
Elena Didenko, Vice-Rector for Continuing Professional Education at the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, proposed reconfiguring employment services to make them more client-centric.
Natalia Vershinina-Adelman, Director, Private Employment Agency Regional Labor Exchange LLC, spoke about infrastructure solutions for attracting qualified personnel from BRICS countries.
At the end of the session, the participants were presented with the project “Why are you needed at home”, within the framework of which the professional socialization of young people is carried out.
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: IMF – News in Russian
June 18, 2025
End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussions and decision.
Harare, Zimbabwe: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) staff team led by Mr. Wojciech Maliszewski visited Harare from June 4 to June 18, 2025, to conduct the 2025 Article IV Consultation.
At the conclusion of the IMF mission, Mr. Maliszewski issued the following statement:
“Zimbabwe is experiencing a degree of macroeconomic stability despite lingering policy challenges. Following successive bouts of hyperinflation over the past few years, more disciplined policies—including halting and transferring to the Treasury the quasi-fiscal operations (QFOs) of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) and tighter monetary policy despite fiscal pressures—have helped stabilize the local currency (the ‘ZiG’) and reduce inflation. Growth this year is recovering following a sharp slowdown in 2024, which was affected by a drought that lowered agricultural output by 15 percent. Electricity production also fell, and declining prices for platinum and lithium weighed on the mining output. During the first half of 2025, better climate conditions and historically high gold prices have boosted agricultural and mining activity, strengthening the current account and contributing to the recovery, with growth projected at 6 percent in 2025.
“Buoyed by the growth recovery and policy measures—a reduction in VAT tax reliefs, increased fees and levies, taxation of the COVID public servant allowance, and steps to reduce smuggling—revenue ratio increased sharply to 18 percent of GDP. That said, fiscal pressures intensified in 2024 and in the first months of 2025 as higher revenues proved insufficient to meet growing spending needs. These came notably from higher public sector wages, capital outlays related to a SADC summit, debt servicing costs on past QFOs by the RBZ taken over by the Treasury, and servicing liabilities related to the acquisition of assets for the Mutapa Investment Fund. The fiscal deficit was financed by T-bills issuance and direct borrowing from the RBZ’s overdraft facility to service debt, contributing to the expansion of domestic liquidity and an overnight drop in the value of the ZiG in September 2024, and a significant buildup of expenditure arrears that continued into 2025.
“Following the overnight drop in the value of the ZiG, inflation spiked in October 2024 then declined significantly as both the willing-buyer willing-seller (WBWS) and parallel market rates have since stabilized, helping to bring month-on-month inflation down to an average of 0.5 percent over the period February to May 2025. At the same time, the gap between the WBWS and parallel market rates has narrowed significantly, but remains at around 20 percent. In this context, the mission welcomed the repeal of Statutory Instrument 81A of 2024—which had mandated the formal sector to use the WBWS rate in the pricing of goods and services, contributing to an increase in dollarization and informality.
“To support the authorities’ stabilization efforts, key Article IV recommendations include: in the near term, fiscal policy actions to center on closing the financing gap without recourse to monetary financing and further domestic arrears buildup, while safeguarding social spending, and delivering a durable fiscal adjustment in the longer term; monetary and FX policy to focus on supporting a transition to stable national currency, with an effective monetary policy framework and market-determined exchange rate policy; and, to boost growth, structural and economic governance reforms. In this context, policy priorities include:
“The authorities have also announced their plan to transition to a mono-currency system by 2030. The mission emphasized the need to continue strengthening the monetary and FX market framework in line with IMF staff recommendations. This should be complemented by measures to enhance the demand for ZiG in the domestic economy—most notably, increasing the share of Treasury’s operations (revenues and expenditures) in ZiG. To reduce any uncertainty weighing on financial intermediation, the authorities should provide more clarity on the operational implications of the transition plan, including clarifying that the use of a mono-currency will be limited to domestic transactions, allowing for bank deposits to remain denominated in both currencies.
“In the context of the requested SMP, IMF staff stands ready to resume discussions in due course once decisive steps have been taken by authorities to address the key policy issues highlighted by the mission.
“International reengagement remains critical for debt resolution and arrears clearance, which would open the door for access to external financing. In this context, the authorities’ reengagement efforts, through the Structured Dialogue Platform, are key for attaining debt sustainability and gaining access to concessional external financing.
“The IMF maintains an active engagement with Zimbabwe and continues to provide policy advice and extensive technical assistance in the areas of revenue mobilization, expenditure control, financial supervision, debt management, economic governance, as well as macroeconomic statistics. However, the IMF is currently precluded from providing financial support to Zimbabwe due to its unsustainable debt situation—based on the IMF’s Debt Sustainability Analysis (DSA)—and official external arrears. An IMF financial arrangement would require a clear path to comprehensive restructuring of Zimbabwe’s external debt, including the clearance of arrears and a reform plan that is consistent with durably restoring macroeconomic stability; enhancing inclusive growth; lowering poverty; and strengthening economic governance.
“IMF staff held meetings with His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa; Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Honorable Professor Mthuli Ncube, his Deputy Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Honorable David Mnangagwa and his Permanent Secretary Mr. George Guvamatanga; Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe Governor Dr. John Mushayavanhu; Mr. Willard Manungo, Deputy Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet; other senior government and RBZ officials; honorable members of Parliament; and representatives of the private sector, civil society, and Zimbabwe’s development partners.
“The IMF staff would like to thank the Zimbabwean authorities and other stakeholders for constructive discussions and support during the 2025 Article IV consultation process.”
PRESS OFFICER: Wafa Amr
Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org
https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/18/pr-25203-zimbabwe-imf-completes-2025-article-iv-mission
Source: Government of Canada News
June 18, 2025 – Montreal – National Film Board of Canada (NFB)
The feature-length documentary Living Together, directed by Halima Elkhatabi, launches on NFB streaming platforms on Tuesday, July 1. It’s an engaging portrait of Gen Y and Gen Z set against the backdrop of the housing crisis. The film had its world premiere at the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and has since been an official selection at Canadian festivals—including Vancouver, Victoria and the Rendez-vous Québec Cinéma—as well as at festivals in Europe and Morocco. It also had a theatrical release in Quebec in fall 2024.
About the film
Living Together by Halima Elkhatabi (2024, NFB, 75 min)
Press kit: mediaspace.nfb.ca/epk/living-together
About the filmmaker
Born in France, Halima Elkhatabi is a Montreal writer and director of Moroccan descent. A graduate of the Institut national de l’image et du son (INIS), Elkhatabi works in documentary and fiction film as well as audio documentary production. She co-directed the NFB collaborative doc St-Henri, the 26th of August, directed the short fiction films Nina (TIFF’s Canada’s Top Ten 2015) and Fantas (TIFF 2024), and authored the podcasts La route du bled, Chloé et Abdi, Songe d’une nuit d’hiver and La route de l’Eldorado.
– 30 –
Stay Connected
Online Screening Room: nfb.ca
NFB Facebook | NFB X | NFB Instagram | NFB Blog | NFB YouTube | NFB Vimeo
Curator’s perspective | Director’s notes
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04)
WASHINGTON — This morning, after meeting with brave and patriotic Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers in Chicago, Speaker Johnson joined Bill Hemmer on Fox News’ America’s Newsroom to discuss how House Republicans are delivering much needed relief and reinforcements to ICE through the One Big Beautiful Bill.
Watch the full interview here
On Speaker Johnson’s visit to ICE offices in Chicago:
We came here to make sure that these brave men and women that serve in ICE, who are protecting our communities and upholding federal law, I want to make sure that they know that Republicans have their back. The President, Kristi Noem at Homeland Security, all the leadership, Tom Homan, we are all in this together. And we want them to know that even though assaults on ICE officers have risen by 413% just in this recent period. Democrats are leading that. Republicans are on the opposite side. We are for the rule of law and for law enforcement, and we are doing everything we can to support them.
On the One Big Beautiful Bill’s impact on immigration and deportations:
I can tell you that every Republican in Congress, in the House and Senate, are completely supportive of this idea that we’ve got to give more resources. This was the number one issue in the election in 2024 in the fall. Largely, President Trump was elected, got the record number, 77 million popular votes, because people believed in his ability and his determination to solve this problem, this illegal immigration crisis that we’ve had. And so they need the resources now to do it.
Tom Homan said, as recently as yesterday, he was in the media saying that yesterday, 95 people were detained who came across the border. That’s the lowest number crossing the border in history ever recorded. And every single one of them are being held and will be sent home. But you need the resources to continue that. Tom Homan said, we have to pass the One Big Beautiful Bill so that they have all those funds that you just listed. Included in that, by the way, is $10,000 bonus for the people on the front lines here. They need it.
On ICE needing additional resources from Congress:
They’ve got a very difficult job here in this deep blue territory with a mayor who is on the wrong side of the law. They’re doing everything they can, it’s a patriotic duty. They’re understaffed; they’re overwhelmed with the workload. They’re trying to go after the dangerous, criminal, illegal aliens that are in the country harming American citizens. The mayor of Chicago thinks that is an ill-conceived mission. What is he talking about? It’s madness. They have to do the job and they need to do it better.
We’re working on the, the One Big Beautiful Bill to allow them the resources that are desperately needed. I mean, they are doing the job. The border is secured. We are locked down. We’re not allowing illegals into the country anymore. But the enforcement and removal of the dangerous people who got here, is an essential task for our ICE agents and officers to take care of. They need more personnel. They need more facilities. We’re here to see it.
###
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34)
LOS ANGELES, CA, June 18, 2025
LOS ANGELES, CA – Representative Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) hosted a Tele Town hall with 4,535 constituents to discuss how he’s fighting back against the Trump administration’s lawless attacks on immigrant families, the illegal deployment of federal troops in LA, and the Republicans’ Big Billionaire Bill that slashes Medicaid and threatens Social Security to fund more tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy.
“Thank you to the 4,533 Angelenos who joined my Tele Town Hall tonight—it’s always good hearing from you,” said Rep. Gomez. “From lawless ICE raids to protecting Medicaid and Social Security, we discussed how we’re fighting back and standing up for our working families. We might not agree on everything, but one thing’s clear: we must stop Trump and the billionaire establishment taking root in DC.”
Over the course of the Tele Town Hall, Rep. Gomez outlined his efforts to:
Constituents who didn’t get a chance to join the town hall can still reach out for assistance or updates. Please contact Rep. Gomez’s office at (213) 481-1425 or visit www.gomez.house.gov for help with a federal agency—including Social Security, veterans’ benefits, immigration services, or Medicare.
Source: United States Attorneys General
Thank you, United States Attorney Pirro. My name is Matthew Galeotti, and I am the Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, which is over the Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS).
Today’s civil forfeiture complaint against over $225 million worth of cryptocurrency is the Department’s latest action in our ongoing fight against cryptocurrency fraud schemes, which the FBI estimates caused more than $9.3 billion in reported losses in 2024 alone. And $5.8 billion of those reported losses can be attributed to cryptocurrency investment fraud schemes, specifically.
The criminal scheme alleged in the complaint laundered millions of dollars in cryptocurrency taken by fraud and deceit from over four hundred suspected victims who were misled to believe that they were making legitimate cryptocurrency investments. These scammers tried to conceal their actions, executing thousands of transactions across an extensive network of wallets and accounts to launder their ill-gotten gains.
This is not the first action we’ve taken to hold cryptocurrency scammers to account—and it will not be the last. These schemes harm American victims and undermine investor confidence in the cryptocurrency ecosystem.
Just last week, the Department announced the guilty pleas of five men who laundered over $36 million from victims of a cryptocurrency investment fraud scheme that operated out of Cambodia. These defendants face maximum penalties of between five and 20 years in prison.
And last month, a federal District Court here in D.C. ordered the forfeiture of approximately $2.5 million worth of cryptocurrency associated with one of these schemes. And we also announced the seizure of an additional $868,247 worth of cryptocurrency from scammers.
You’ve just heard from United States Attorney Pirro about why today’s announcement matters, and how you can protect yourself from falling victim to these schemes. But it bears emphasizing the points she made here today.
The impact of these schemes on their victims can be devastating—both financially and personally—and this impact is compounded many times over by the sheer scale of these schemes.
The FBI estimates that cryptocurrency investment fraud led to roughly $9.3 billion in losses in 2024 alone. Individuals over the age of 60 were the most affected, with roughly $2.8 billion in losses.
To put it plainly, these are con artists. Protect yourselves by educating yourselves. Before considering any investment involving cryptocurrency, read the FBI’s web page about Cryptocurrency Investment Fraud and check if you see any of the “red flags” identified there. For example, if an unknown individual contacts you, do not release any financial or personal identifying information (PII) and do not send any money; verify the validity of any investment opportunity from strangers or long-lost contacts on social media websites; and if an investment opportunity sounds too good to be true, it likely is.
There are additional red flags on the FBI’s page and I encourage the public to review them carefully.
Today, I’m here to underscore the Department’s commitment to protecting the American public from these transnational criminal organizations—and to securing justice for victims. You are not alone. Our skilled investigators and prosecutors are working relentlessly to identify and hold to account those who seek to profit from harming our citizens. We will use every tool at our disposal to ensure that these crimes do not pay and to bring these perpetrators to justice.
Source: United States Attorneys General 13
Thank you, United States Attorney Pirro. My name is Matthew Galeotti, and I am the Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, which is over the Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS).
Today’s civil forfeiture complaint against over $225 million worth of cryptocurrency is the Department’s latest action in our ongoing fight against cryptocurrency fraud schemes, which the FBI estimates caused more than $9.3 billion in reported losses in 2024 alone. And $5.8 billion of those reported losses can be attributed to cryptocurrency investment fraud schemes, specifically.
The criminal scheme alleged in the complaint laundered millions of dollars in cryptocurrency taken by fraud and deceit from over four hundred suspected victims who were misled to believe that they were making legitimate cryptocurrency investments. These scammers tried to conceal their actions, executing thousands of transactions across an extensive network of wallets and accounts to launder their ill-gotten gains.
This is not the first action we’ve taken to hold cryptocurrency scammers to account—and it will not be the last. These schemes harm American victims and undermine investor confidence in the cryptocurrency ecosystem.
Just last week, the Department announced the guilty pleas of five men who laundered over $36 million from victims of a cryptocurrency investment fraud scheme that operated out of Cambodia. These defendants face maximum penalties of between five and 20 years in prison.
And last month, a federal District Court here in D.C. ordered the forfeiture of approximately $2.5 million worth of cryptocurrency associated with one of these schemes. And we also announced the seizure of an additional $868,247 worth of cryptocurrency from scammers.
You’ve just heard from United States Attorney Pirro about why today’s announcement matters, and how you can protect yourself from falling victim to these schemes. But it bears emphasizing the points she made here today.
The impact of these schemes on their victims can be devastating—both financially and personally—and this impact is compounded many times over by the sheer scale of these schemes.
The FBI estimates that cryptocurrency investment fraud led to roughly $9.3 billion in losses in 2024 alone. Individuals over the age of 60 were the most affected, with roughly $2.8 billion in losses.
To put it plainly, these are con artists. Protect yourselves by educating yourselves. Before considering any investment involving cryptocurrency, read the FBI’s web page about Cryptocurrency Investment Fraud and check if you see any of the “red flags” identified there. For example, if an unknown individual contacts you, do not release any financial or personal identifying information (PII) and do not send any money; verify the validity of any investment opportunity from strangers or long-lost contacts on social media websites; and if an investment opportunity sounds too good to be true, it likely is.
There are additional red flags on the FBI’s page and I encourage the public to review them carefully.
Today, I’m here to underscore the Department’s commitment to protecting the American public from these transnational criminal organizations—and to securing justice for victims. You are not alone. Our skilled investigators and prosecutors are working relentlessly to identify and hold to account those who seek to profit from harming our citizens. We will use every tool at our disposal to ensure that these crimes do not pay and to bring these perpetrators to justice.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17)
Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) met with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Hurricane Hunters to show his support for their critical and lifesaving work during severe weather season. These brave men and women collect weather data on hurricanes that have the potential to hit the United States by flying missions directly into the eye of hurricanes.
“NOAA’s Hurricane Hunters are an indispensable part of the agency’s forecasting operation, allowing us to track hurricanes heading toward the United States with accuracy and precision,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “The data we get back from the men and women flying these dangerous missions into the eye of hurricanes help us issue evacuations and warnings well in advance of severe weather. With storm systems getting both more frequent and severe, it is essential that we fully fund and staff all aspects of NOAA and the National Weather Service’s forecasting missions.”
Congressman Sorensen has been a fierce advocate for protecting and strengthening NOAA and the National Weather Service (NWS) from cuts. Starting last year, he has been warning about the impact of Project 2025’s plans to dismantle and privatize NOAA and the NWS. As the Department of Government Efficiency began making cuts to the agencies, Congressman Sorensen has been speaking out, introducing legislation, and calling on the Administration to bring a stop to the disastrous cuts.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17)
Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) met with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Hurricane Hunters to show his support for their critical and lifesaving work during severe weather season. These brave men and women collect weather data on hurricanes that have the potential to hit the United States by flying missions directly into the eye of hurricanes.
“NOAA’s Hurricane Hunters are an indispensable part of the agency’s forecasting operation, allowing us to track hurricanes heading toward the United States with accuracy and precision,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “The data we get back from the men and women flying these dangerous missions into the eye of hurricanes help us issue evacuations and warnings well in advance of severe weather. With storm systems getting both more frequent and severe, it is essential that we fully fund and staff all aspects of NOAA and the National Weather Service’s forecasting missions.”
Congressman Sorensen has been a fierce advocate for protecting and strengthening NOAA and the National Weather Service (NWS) from cuts. Starting last year, he has been warning about the impact of Project 2025’s plans to dismantle and privatize NOAA and the NWS. As the Department of Government Efficiency began making cuts to the agencies, Congressman Sorensen has been speaking out, introducing legislation, and calling on the Administration to bring a stop to the disastrous cuts.
Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:
Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, conducted the 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 on 19th and 20th June in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative along with The First Ladies of 14 African and Asian countries, who joined as the Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers.
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative” emphasized, “It is my great honor to welcome our esteemed Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers, The First Ladies of Africa and Asia, and Ambassadors of our ‘More Than a Mother’ campaign to the 7th Edition of the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit.
Through this important platform, we have collectively exchanged valuable experiences and engaged in meaningful discussions on the impact of our programs, which are aimed at transforming patient care and raising awareness of a wide range of critical social and health issues.”
Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees added, “At Merck Foundation, our goal is improving overall health and well-being by building healthcare capacity and by providing access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in the Africa, Asia and beyond. I would like to sincerely thank our Ambassadors and partners. Together, with your unwavering support and collaboration, we will continue to work towards our vision of a world where everyone can lead a healthy and happy life.”
The First Ladies of 14 countries, who are also the Ambassadors of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”, joined as Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers. They are:
Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej stated, “I am proud to share that Merck Foundation has provided more than 2280 scholarships for young doctors from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties. Many of our Merck Foundation Alumni are becoming the first specialists in their countries. Together with our Ambassadors and Partners, we are making history and transforming the patient care landscape across Africa and beyond. Many of them are becoming the first specialists in their countries.”
“During our Conference, we also marked together the World Infertility Awareness Month, observed in June, through our signature campaign “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”, which aims to empower infertile and childless women by providing access to information, education, and change of mindset. I am happy to share that out of the total 2280 scholarships, more than 700 scholarships have been provided for training in Fertility, Embryology, Sexual and Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Psychiatry, Women’s Health, Urology, Laparoscopic Surgical Skills, and Family Medicine, to improve access to fertility care and women’s health”, she further added.
During the 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative -MFFLI Summit, two important occasions were marked; the 8th Anniversary of Merck Foundation and 13 years of Merck Foundation’s development programs that started in 2012.
On the first day, the Plenary Session of the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative -MFFLI Summit took place, featuring a high-level panel discussion with the participating First Ladies of Africa and Asia. Moreover, a high-level ministerial panel discussion was held with African Ministers and top healthcare experts from across the globe.
The Day 2 of the conference will have three key parallel session will be held- Two medical and scientific sessions covering Oncology and Fertility Topics, and a community awareness session, Merck Foundation Health Media Training. This session will emphasize the critical role of the media in influencing communities and driving cultural change, with regards to a wide range of social and health issues like Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girls’ Education, Stopping GBV, Ending Child Marriage & FGM, Empowering Women, Diabetes and Hypertension Awareness.
The conference is being conducted in a hybrid format, enabling over 6,000 audiences from more than 70 countries to benefit, meet and discuss strategies and solutions for the health and social challenges in their countries safely and effectively.
Countries participating in the 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative:
Angola, Bangladesh, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Canada, Central Africa Republic, Cambodia, Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, France, Gabon, Germany, Ghana, Guinea – Bissau, Guinea – Conakry, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mexico, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Peru, Philippines, Russia, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Tanzania, Thailand, The Gambia, Togo, Tunisia, U.A.E, UK, Uganda, US, Vietnam, Zambia, Zimbabwe and more.
The 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative is streamed live on the social media handles of Merck Foundation and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation:
@ Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4edCwCi), X (https://apo-opa.co/4n8k2qI), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/3G4ZQ8w), and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4kQbVOf).
@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/3ZBhIi7), X (https://apo-opa.co/3FT5D13), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/3HNpOOr), and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3ZF3Xiq).
Link to the Facebook live stream of Inaugural Session of Merck Foundation First Ladies High Level Panel: https://apo-opa.co/3G1Afxo
Merck Foundation is transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with their partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, through:
• 2280+ Scholarships provided by Merck Foundation for doctors from 52 Countries in more than 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.
Merck Foundation is also creating a culture shift and breaking the silence about a wide range of social and health issues in Africa and underserved communities through:
• 3700+ Media Persons from more than 35 countries trained to better raise awareness about different social and health issues
• 8 Different Awards launched annually for best media coverage, fashion designers, films, and songs
• Around 30 songs to address health and social issues, by local singers across Africa
• 8 Children’s Storybooks in three languages – English, French, and Portuguese
• 7 Awareness Animation films in five languages – English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Swahili to raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes & Hypertension and supporting girl education.
• Pan African TV Program “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” addressing Social and Health Issues in Africa through “Fashion and ART with Purpose” Community
• 950+ Scholarships provided to high performing but under-privileged African schoolgirls to empower them to complete their studies
• 15 Social Media Channels with more than 8 Million Followers.
– on behalf of Merck Foundation.
Contact:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
+91 9310087613
+91 9319606669
mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com
Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard!
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YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/4kQbVOf
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Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/460Conu
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/460ClIk
About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4edCwCi), X (https://apo-opa.co/4n8k2qI), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/3G4ZQ8w), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4kQbVOf), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/460CnzW) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/460Conu).
The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.
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US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott
WASHINGTON — Today, a resolution introduced by U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) commemorating the nine people brutally murdered in an attack at Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina ten years ago unanimously passed the U.S. Senate.
In addition to Senators Scott and Graham, this bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.)
“As we continue to wrestle with the grief and pain of loss from that tragic night, we must not succumb to hate,” said Senator Scott. “Instead, let us celebrate their stories and be empowered by their legacies to join together in a spirit of unity.”
“The senseless violence that occurred ten years ago was motivated by sheer hate and bigotry, but the people of South Carolina came together in a way that I haven’t seen in a long time. Out of this terrible tragedy, we are stronger than we were before, and Mother Emanuel is still standing today,” said Senator Graham. “I greatly appreciate Senator Scott’s leadership and I am honored to join with him to commemorate the lives lost and continue to lift up their loved ones.”
In addition to the resolution, Senator Scott took to the Senate floor to share his thoughts on the anniversary of the attack.
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Click here or on the image above to watch Senator Scott’s remarks.
For full text of the resolution, click here.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ron Wyden (D-Oregon), Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon) celebrated the Senate’s unanimous passage of their legislation, S. 356, to reauthorize the U.S. Forest Service’s Secure Rural Schools and Self-Determination Program (SRS) through Fiscal Year 2026.
“In many rural counties in Idaho, the loss of resource revenue sharing from vast tracts of federally owned land inhibit counties’ ability to support local schools or even fund basic emergency services–including search and rescue,” said Crapo. “The Senate’s unanimous passage of legislation to reauthorize the Secure Rural Schools program is a critical first step in meeting the federal government’s responsibility to rural communities containing tax-exempt public lands. Without SRS, many counties in Idaho and across the country will fall short of the financial means to provide for these integral community functions for local residents and visitors alike. I urge the U.S. House of Representatives to move expeditiously on this legislation.”
“This is a significant, encouraging and urgently needed step for Oregonians living and working in counties that have depended for decades on these federal investments for local schools, roads, law enforcement and more,” said Wyden, who co-authored the initial bipartisan SRS legislation in 2000. “I’m glad the Senate has once again done the right thing by passing this bill in a timely fashion, and I strongly urge the House to act ASAP to reconnect this proven lifeline for rural communities in Oregon and nationwide.”
“Idaho counties rely on SRS funding for schools, road maintenance, and other essential services. Until we can bring historic timber revenue back to these areas, this program must be reauthorized,” said Risch. “The federal government made a promise to rural communities, and I’m proud to see the Senate follow through.”
“Our bipartisan bill provides reliable funding that is crucial to keeping schools and libraries open, maintaining roads, restoring watersheds, and ensuring there are police officers and firefighters to keep rural?communities safe,” said Merkley. “Congress must swiftly pass this bill to extend the SRS program so Oregon communities can maintain access to these important lifelines and resources.”
The Senate’s additional co-sponsors of the measure include Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Jacky Rosen (D-Nevada), Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Jeanne Shaheen (D-New Hampshire), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Mark Kelly (D-Arizona), Josh Hawley (R-Missouri), Maggie Hassan (D-New Hampshire), John Curtis (R-Utah), Patty Murray (D-Washington), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota), Tim Sheehy (R-Montana), Michael Bennet (D-Colorado), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Jim Justice (R-West Virginia), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nevada), John Hickenlooper (D-Colorado) and Adam Schiff (D-California).
Crapo, Wyden, Risch and Merkley introduced the legislation in the 118th Congress, and the Senate unanimously passed it in November 2024. It did not receive a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives before the end of the Congress. The program needs to be reauthorized as soon as possible to avoid a gap in funding for rural counties that rely on the program for much-needed services.
Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:
Today marks 500 days to go until the Youth Olympic Games (YOG) Dakar 2026 – the first Olympic event to take place on African soil. To mark the milestone, the Dakar 2026 Organising Committee (YOGOC) is rolling out a series of cultural and community-led initiatives across Senegal, blending sport, art and youth engagement in a uniquely local celebration of global spirit.
A love letter to Africa: Dakar 2026 official video launched
At the heart of the 500-days-to-go celebration is the release of the official Dakar 2026 promotional video – a powerful piece of storytelling and poetic imagery that sets the tone for what lies ahead. The video is a tribute to the power of sport, the strength of youth and the diversity of Africa.
Narrated with emotional depth and featuring a special appearance by Senegalese Olympic silver medallist Amadou Dia Ba (400m hurdles, Seoul 1988), the film also showcases young athletes from across Senegal and teases the 35 sports featured on the YOG programme. It offers a vibrant look at the host sites – Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly – and reflects the values that will define these historic Games.
Street art connects Games to communities
To bring the Olympic spirit into public spaces, a national graffiti campaign will see 10 young artists create murals in Dakar, Diamniadio, Saly, Ziguinchor and Saint-Louis. Each artwork will weave the Dakar 2026 logo and motto – “Africa welcomes, Dakar celebrates” – into vivid expressions of local identity and pride. This initiative will bring the Games into the streets and aims to connect directly with Senegalese youth.
Olympic Day to shine a spotlight on youth and sport
Looking ahead, the Dakar 2026 celebrations will continue on Olympic Day, 23 June, with a half-day event bringing together more than 1,000 schoolchildren in Dakar. The programme will feature sports demonstrations across 12 disciplines, a group fitness session and interactive educational spaces celebrating the Olympic values.
The YOG Dakar 2026 will take place over two weeks from 31 October, bringing together the world’s best young athletes up to the age of 17. The Games will be held across three host sites (Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly).
– on behalf of International Olympic Committee (IOC).
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Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, June 18 (Xinhua) — China’s Foreign Ministry on Wednesday expressed strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s recent remarks on China’s industrial subsidy policies, calling her words factually inaccurate and filled with bias and double standards.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun made the statement at a regular briefing in response to a journalist’s question about U. von der Leyen’s remarks at the G7 summit on June 16.
China’s industrial subsidy policy adheres to the principles of openness, fairness and compliance with established norms, and strictly abides by the rules of the World Trade Organization, Guo Jiakun emphasized. According to him, China’s industrial development relies on the advantages of consistent technological innovation, a complete supply chain system, full-fledged market competition and abundant labor resources, which are due to the country’s actual capabilities rather than subsidies.
As the diplomat emphasized, China’s new energy production capacity makes a significant contribution to the global fight against climate change and the energy transition. The so-called “overcapacity” problem, he noted, is essentially a projection of individual countries’ concerns about their own competitiveness and market share, which they intend to use as a pretext to justify protectionist measures.
The official representative pointed out that in recent years the European Union has been continuously implementing industrial policy measures, providing a significant amount of subsidies to support European enterprises, and even openly offering to give preference to purchasing products from European manufacturers.
The EU plans to provide more than €1.44 trillion in various subsidies from 2021 to 2030, with more than €300 billion already provided by 2024, Guo Jiakun said, citing incomplete statistics.
According to him, at a time when the EU is striving to stimulate economic growth and increase competitiveness, it needs to abandon double standards and move towards greater openness in cooperation.
In the 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, cooperation between China and the EU has yielded fruitful results and brought tangible benefits to both sides, the official said, assuring that China, while continuing to firmly adhere to high-level opening up, will continue to provide European companies with its vast market and development opportunities.
China hopes to strengthen communication and coordination with the European side and properly handle trade differences to achieve win-win results and common development, Guo Jiakun said. At the same time, he added, China firmly opposes any attempt to undermine its right to development or sacrifice Chinese interests for its own gains. –0–