Category: Europe

MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Spanish Government uses a Royal Decree-Law to undermine the role of the Senate, creating legal uncertainty – E-000004/2025(ASW)
Source: European Parliament
The Commission places great importance on ensuring that all EU Member States uphold rule of law. It has various instruments at its disposal to actively promote and protect the rule of law, as part of its rule of law toolbox.

This includes monitoring through the annual Rule of Law Report and in the context of the European Semester, as well as the possibility to initiate infringement procedures when necessary.

Further, the Conditionality Regulation[1] applies in case of breaches of the principles of the rule of law, which affect or seriously risk affecting the sound financial management of the Union budget or the protection of the financial interests of the EU in a sufficiently direct way.

The Commission also provides technical and financial assistance to the Member States to support judicial reforms, ultimately boosting the rule of law.

The Commission does not comment on the role of the Senate in the Spanish constitutional system, which is a matter of Spanish law.

In its role as guardian of the Treaties, the Commission remains committed to taking necessary measures to ensure compliance with EU law in all Member States and will continue to work with the Spanish authorities to promote the rule of law.

[1] Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2092.
Last updated: 2 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – STMicroelectronics’ plans to lay off 2 500 workers at its Catania facility and the effectiveness of state aid for employment in the semiconductor sector – P-000759/2025(ASW)
Source: European Parliament
STMicroelectronics’s Catania initiative is in line with the European Chips Act[1] objectives to strengthen the global competitiveness of the EU industry and ensure the security of supply in the semiconductor sector by attracting investments and enhancing production capacities.

The implementation of this project is ongoing. While it is too early to assess its impact on the semiconductor ecosystem, the sheer volume of investment involved is expected to have a significant impact both on the market and on highly skilled jobs created by STMicroelectronics. It is worth noting that the facility is planned to operate at full capacity by 2032.

The Catania project places in Europe a substantial source of silicon-carbide device production for which there are currently capacity constraints.

It strengthens the European competitiveness in this key technology at global level, when the green and digital transition accelerate the silicon-carbide expected demand by numerous industrial sectors.

This investment in new technologies aligns well with the long-term semiconductor strategy of the European Chips Act while attracting and safeguarding high-quality jobs.

As stated by the Italian authorities, in the period from 2024 to 2031, approximately 26 000 full-time equivalent positions will be employed, out of which 19 000 refer to local, regional and national induced employment, and another 4 000 to other EU regions[2].

[1] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/priorities-2019-2024/europe-fit-digital-age/european-chips-act_en

[2] https://ec.europa.eu/competition/state_aid/cases1/202450/SA_107594_101.pdf
Last updated: 2 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Presentation of a study on the methodologies for estimating the level of errors – Committee on Budgetary Control

Source: European Parliament

Payment risk © Image used under the license from Adobe Stock

On 8 April 2025, CONT Members will exchange views on a study on “Methods in the ECA and the Commission to estimate the level of error in EU expenditure”.

As part of their annual statement of assurance, the Court of Auditors estimates an error rate on the basis of a statistical sample of all EU expenditure. The Commission reports its own error rate in its Annual Management and Performance Report, the risk at payment. In recent years, the two estimates have been increasingly diverging, leading to repeated debates in the CONT Committee on these error rates, the underlying methodologies, and how to interpret the different estimates.

MIL OSI Europe News –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – New tariffs by the Trump administration: press conference on Thursday at 9.00 CET

Source: European Parliament

The Chair of the International Trade Committee and standing rapporteur for the US, Bernd LANGE (S&D, DE), will hold a press conference in Strasbourg on Thursday at 9.00.

Mr Lange will comment on the announcement by the Trump administration expected tonight on new measures related to international trade, and will answer questions from the media.

Who? Bernd LANGE (S&D, DE), Chair of the International Trade Committee

When? Thursday, 3 April 2025, 9.00 CET

Where? European Parliament, Strasbourg, Daphne Caruana Galizia press conference room (WEISS N -1/201) and via Interactio or via Parliament’s webstreaming and EbS

Journalists wishing to participate actively and ask questions, please connect via Interactio using this link: https://ep.interactio.eu/s871-h7gf-91mi

Background

Since the beginning of the second Trump administration, the US has taken several measures to increase tariffs on e.g. steel, aluminium and cars. The EU has in turn reacted with countermeasures. President Trump said he will be taking new, additional measures on 2 April and is expected to make an announcement on what form they will take tonight.

MIL OSI Europe News –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Container port in Lamu, Kenya – E-001225/2025

Source: European Parliament

Question for written answer E-001225/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Siegbert Frank Droese (ESN)

What does the Commission make of the fact that EU tenderers lost out in the call for tenders for the container port in Lamu, Kenya – especially after leaders in Kenya criticised ubiquitous EU requirements regarding ‘values’ and supply chains?

Submitted: 24.3.2025

Last updated: 2 April 2025

MIL OSI Europe News –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Eastern Shield – P-001157/2025
Source: European Parliament
Priority question for written answer P-001157/2025/rev.1
to the Commission
Rule 144
Anna Bryłka (PfE)

At a press conference in Brussels on 28 June 2024, Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced that he had obtained European leaders’ agreement for EU co-financing of defence efforts as part of the East Shield. In February, he reported that the decision to allocate EUR 100 million to Poland had already been taken in December 2024.

In connection with the above, could the Commission answer the following questions:

1.What is the decision-making process for the allocation of funds for the East Shield project? In your answer, please indicate the deadlines and scope of the application submitted by Poland, as well as the current and anticipated steps in the Commission’s decision‑making process.

2.From which sources (transfers in the general budget, loans, national envelope, existing funds, projected funds, etc.) does the Commission intend to finance the implementation of this project?

Submitted: 19.3.2025
Last updated: 2 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Response to the entry into force of the EES in the second half of 2025 in view of the lack of detail regarding the forms and the possible shortage of materials – E-001258/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001258/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Borja Giménez Larraz (PPE)

The Entry and Exit System (EES), the new registration system for travellers from outside the European Union, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland or Liechtenstein admitted for a short stay (up to 90 days within any 180-day period), comes into force in the second half of 2025.

To date, the Commission has not communicated the exact procedure or the forms to be used. As a result, the Member States – especially Spain – do not have the logistical arrangements in place for the collection of this data, such as biometric checks.

Given the high number of non-EU tourists visiting certain regions of the EU – such as southern Spain – particularly British visitors (with Málaga alone welcoming three million UK tourists annually, or 2 300 per hour):

1.Has the European Commission prepared any contingency plans in case the entry into force of the EES causes disruptions to the European Union’s infrastructure and at the ports of entry?

Submitted: 26.3.2025
Last updated: 2 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Concerns about the European Food Safety Authority’s risk assessment of soy leghemoglobin – E-001090/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001090/2025/rev.1
to the Commission
Rule 144
Martin Häusling (Verts/ALE), Anja Hazekamp (The Left), Biljana Borzan (S&D), Tilly Metz (Verts/ALE), Sirpa Pietikäinen (PPE)

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) panels on food additives and genetically modified organisms have issued favourable opinions on soy leghemoglobin, a substance derived from genetically modified (GM) yeast that gives the Impossible Burger its ‘bleeding’ effect, mimicking undercooked beef.

1.How does the Commission ensure compliance with the precautionary principle and justify accepting safety data from an irrelevant yeast strain when EFSA itself advised against such an approach?

2.Will the Commission make EFSA’s complete risk assessment[1] on soy leghemoglobin public without any redacted or masked parts, ensuring full transparency, and reopen the public consultation on the full text to allow the public to make more informed comments?

3.Is the Commission considering refusing the authorisation of GM-derived soy leghemoglobin, in view of the potential risks, the incomplete EFSA assessment and the unfavourable opinion of consumers towards GM-foods?

Submitted: 13.3.2025

[1] https://efsa.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.2903/j.efsa.2024.9060.
Last updated: 2 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI: Best Natural Testosterone Booster Supplement for Muscle Growth (TestoPrime Review)
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NEW YORK, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Affiliate Credo, a leading platform in health and fitness reviews, has released an updated overview of TestoPrime, a widely discussed natural testosterone support supplement for men looking to improve strength, performance, and energy levels in 2025.

The review provides timely insights into how TestoPrime continues to gain popularity among athletes, bodybuilders, and aging individuals seeking to support their testosterone levels through plant-based and clinically studied ingredients.

With a focus on transparency, safety, and research-backed components, TestoPrime reflects a growing trend in natural supplementation for hormone support and muscle enhancement.

Key Benefits of TestoPrime:
- Naturally increases testosterone production
- Supports lean muscle growth and strength
- Enhances endurance and training performance
- Reduces post-workout fatigue and supports recovery
- Improves mental focus and drive
Pros:
- Natural, clean formula backed by research
- No prescription required
- Produced in FDA-approved, GMP-certified facilities
- Lifetime money-back guarantee
- Noticeable results in strength, stamina, and recovery
Cons:
- Requires daily use for best effects
- Higher cost compared to generic supplements
Why TestoPrime Is Being Noticed in 2025

According to recent analysis conducted by Affiliate Credo, TestoPrime remains one of the most talked-about testosterone support supplements in the natural wellness space. Its formula includes:
- D-Aspartic Acid – promotes the release of luteinizing hormone
- Ashwagandha Extract – helps manage cortisol levels for improved recovery
- Fenugreek – linked to enhanced performance and stamina
- Panax Ginseng, Zinc, and Vitamin D – support hormonal balance and energy metabolism
These ingredients work synergistically to support lean muscle development, post-workout recovery, and overall vitality.

Supplementation and Fitness Trends

Affiliate Credo’s 2025 supplement outlook shows that more consumers are seeking hormone-support formulas that do not rely on synthetic hormones or prescriptions.

TestoPrime is positioned as a product that aligns with this demand, offering a blend that supports testosterone levels naturally while appealing to both younger athletes and older adults managing age-related decline.

You can learn more about the product breakdown and detailed ingredient insights by visiting our website.

“Our goal at Affiliate Credo is to deliver reliable supplement reviews based on performance, scientific validation, and user feedback,” said the editorial team. “TestoPrime has maintained strong consumer interest due to its transparent formulation and consistent results.”

About Affiliate Credo

We are involved in affiliate marketing and create reviews of health-related products.

Our office:

Kyiv, Ukraine, Berejanskaya str 18-91
E-mail: hennadii.kamentsov@affiliatecredo.com
Website https://affiliatecredo.com/testoprime

Disclaimers:

The information provided in this article has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

TestoPrime is not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition or illness.

Results may differ from person to person. It’s strongly recommended to consult with a licensed healthcare provider before beginning any supplement routine, especially if you are under medical care, pregnant, nursing, or taking prescribed medications.

Mentions of scientific studies or institutions are shared solely for general educational purposes related to men’s health and well-being. They do not serve as an endorsement of TestoPrime.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6f32bc4f-68d3-4e39-8391-0d1e808befc0

The MIL Network –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU evacuations of Afghans at risk – E-001218/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001218/2025
to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
Rule 144
Erik Marquardt (Verts/ALE), Tineke Strik (Verts/ALE), Mélissa Camara (Verts/ALE), Jaume Asens Llodrà (Verts/ALE), Hannah Neumann (Verts/ALE)

In February 2022, the Council (under the common foreign and security policy) adopted a decision[1] emphasising the need to continue evacuating, up to December 2022, Afghan nationals and their families who had cooperated with the EU and its Member States. This deadline has since been extended twice and was valid until December 2024[2]. However, despite this extension, the number of Afghans admitted by Member States remains low, leaving many eligible individuals stranded in neighbouring countries or within Afghanistan itself.

Since the most recent Council decision, there have been no updates from the Vice President / High Representative or the European External Action Service (EEAS) on its implementation or achievements.

1.When will the EEAS report on the Council decision’s progress or impact on Afghans at risk?

2.In the light of the many eligible Afghans still in Afghanistan or neighbouring countries, will the EEAS propose an extension of the Council decision to the Member States?

Submitted: 24.3.2025

[1] Council Decision (CFSP) 2022/151 of 3 February 2022 on a European Union action to support the evacuation of certain particularly vulnerable persons from Afghanistan, OJ L 25, 4.2.2022, p. 11, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2022/151/oj.

[2] Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/2803 of 11 December 2023 amending Decision (CFSP) 2022/151 on a European Union action to support the evacuation of certain particularly vulnerable persons from Afghanistan, OJ L, 2023/2803, 12.12.2023, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2023/2803/oj.
Last updated: 2 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – What evidence does the Commission seek and accept to show that free, prior and informed consent has been correctly obtained? – E-001220/2025

Source: European Parliament

Question for written answer E-001220/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Carola Rackete (The Left)

The European Consensus on Development commits the EU and the Member States to implementing a human rights-based approach to development cooperation.

Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 on deforestation-free products mandates adherence to the principle of free, prior and informed consent (FPIC) as set out in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).

The Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA) demands that projects with the potential to affect indigenous peoples prepare ‘a plan containing measures dedicated to a meaningful consultation of the indigenous peoples affected, the prevention and minimisation of adverse impacts on those indigenous peoples, and, where appropriate, fair compensation’ (recital 20).

Furthermore, the CRMA states that these demands should be implemented according to national and international guidelines, principles and agreements, including, but not limited to, the UNDRIP, the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises on Responsible Business Conduct (Annex III).

Although the CRMA does not provide a clear definition of how ‘meaningful consultation’, ‘prevention of adverse impacts’ or ‘fair compensation’ should be understood, these definitions are clearly stated in the referenced guidelines.

What documentary evidence demonstrating that FPIC has been correctly obtained from affected indigenous peoples does the Commission seek and accept?

Submitted: 24.3.2025

MIL OSI Europe News –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Close to 200 billion of investment mobilised with EIB Advisory’s support in 2024

Source: European Investment Bank

The European Investment Bank Group’s advisory services are helping projects get off the ground worldwide and have contributed to mobilising close to €200 billion of investment in 2024, according to the annual EIB Advisory Report released today. Advisory staff work with clients to prepare projects, support strategic planning and market development, and offer training to the public and private sectors.

In 2024, the demand for EIB Group advisory services continued to be especially high in Southern and Eastern Europe. Most advisory assignments targeted cohesion regions, with an increased focus on climate adaptation, environmental sustainability, innovation and digitalisation. In total, EIB Advisory worked on more than 500 new advisory assignments in 2024 and managed around 1,430 ongoing advisory assignments.

Beyond the European Union, EIB Advisory helps clients of EIB Global, the international arm of the European Investment Bank, to identify and prepare projects. In 2024, advisory assignments helped to rebuild infrastructure in Ukraine, supported growth in the Western Balkans, encouraged deeper partnerships with countries close to the European Union, and promoted sustainable investments to meet the Global Gateway agenda in developing countries.

EIB Group President Nadia Calviño commented: “Our advisory services are helping to unlock investments that make a real difference across all regions – for people, economies and the environment. Providing the right advice and supporting our local partners to get projects off the ground is a vital part of our work at the EIB Group.”

The report presents EIB Advisory work for each of the EIB Group’s eight core strategic priorities and provides a series of case studies. The report is available in digital format here.

MIL OSI Europe News –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Opposition to being a region of plunder – strategic project for the exploitation of a lithium mine in Doade (Ourense) in line with the policy of European rearmament – E-001272/2025

Source: European Parliament

Question for written answer E-001272/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Ana Miranda Paz (Verts/ALE)

The European Commission has selected seven strategic projects in Spain, one of which is the Galician mine in Doade in the municipality of Beariz (Ourense). The Galician territory is arousing much speculative interest on the part of transnational mining companies regarding access to strategic minerals, given the current geostrategic situation and the European Union’s interests in strategic autonomy and rearmament, which run completely counter to the need for public control of these critical raw materials throughout their life cycle, the need for public participation of the local communities affected and the oversight of transparent award procedures with environmental and social safeguards, which has not been the case when it comes to the Partido Popular government in Galicia, which pursues an extractivist policy and allows the plundering of the resources of the constituency that I represent.

I would therefore like to ask:

Can the Commission confirm that it will guarantee the participation of the local communities affected and that, in the event that this strategic project for a critical raw material – which lithium is – runs counter to the public interests of Galicia, they will be able to decide not to grant approval for the development of this mine?

Submitted: 26.3.2025

Last updated: 2 April 2025

MIL OSI Europe News –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – French wine and spirits sector under threat: can the EU afford to pursue a risky trade strategy? – E-001227/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001227/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Jordan Bardella (PfE)

The prospect of a hike in US tariffs on French wine, which could be as high as 200%, has understandably raised concerns among our winemakers. Such a measure would have disastrous consequences for the sector, given that nearly 25% of French wine and spirit exports go to the United States.

While the EU must hit back at the Trump administration, it is essential that we adopt a trade strategy that protects the interests of our Member States.

It would be a political and economic misstep to include bourbon and Californian wines on the list of products subject to European tariffs. By targeting strongholds of opposition to Trump, the Commission risks not only bolstering the President’s position, but also providing a perfect pretext for Washington to hit our wine-making industry harder. That approach risks sacrificing a sector of excellence in the name of an ill-conceived trade retaliation.

1.Will the Commission reconsider its tariff strategy to protect our winemakers, instead of exposing them to commercial blackmail?

2.Will the Commission use negotiation leverage, such as the digital services sector, to force the US Government to reconsider its position?

Submitted: 24.3.2025
Last updated: 2 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Russian shadow fleet and oil imports – E-001226/2025

Source: European Parliament

Question for written answer E-001226/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Siegbert Frank Droese (ESN)

1. To what extent does the Commission rely on oil and gas tanker data from Vortexa regarding the so-called Russian shadow fleet?

2. With regard to the sanctions against Russia and accusations of EU double standards, what does the Commission make of the fact that Russian oil is transported by ship to India, where it is processed, and then exported to the EU?

Submitted: 24.3.2025

Last updated: 2 April 2025

MIL OSI Europe News –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Status of the implementation of the initiative for an annual designation of European Capitals for Children – E-001253/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001253/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Gabriele Bischoff (S&D)

On 14 March 2024, Parliament adopted, with a vast majority among the political groups, the resolution on the creation of a European initiative for an annual designation of European Capitals for Children.

The aim of this initiative is to strengthen children’s rights, promote their active participation in society and enhance exchanges between children from different Member States, giving them a vivid first impression of the diversity of Europe and an introduction to the EU.

In this context, I kindly ask the Commission to respond to the following questions:

1.Is the new Commission aware of this initiative and is it interested in taking action to move this project forward?

2.Does the Commission view this initiative as a positive way to approach children in Europe and will it involve local authorities and civil society organisations in the further development of the initiative?

3.Does the Commission support this initiative, what would be the next steps and how would the Commission involve other supporters such as the Committee of the Regions and UNICEF, which has a Child Friendly Cities Initiative, to make the European Capitals for Children a reality?

Submitted: 26.3.2025
Last updated: 2 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Pollution of the English Channel, North Sea and Baltic Sea – E-001255/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001255/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Mélanie Disdier (PfE), Christophe Bay (PfE), Valérie Deloge (PfE), Angéline Furet (PfE)

I would like to draw your attention to the dramatic consequences of the large-scale dumping of chemical weapons and munitions into the English Channel, the North Sea and the Baltic Sea following the conflicts of the 20th century.

Millions of tons of ammunition of all kinds were dumped off the coast and now present a genuine danger. With some of these munitions having been immersed for more than a century, specialists say that their metal casings may no longer be watertight. According to experts and scientists, they pose a risk of environmental and ecological disaster that could eliminate all life (fauna and flora) for many decades, potentially more than a century.

In addition, this issue is also urgent and particularly sensitive in connection with a plan under consideration to establish an industrial wind farm covering an area of more than 50 km² in the waters off Dunkirk. It should also be noted that part of the North Sea is classified under Natura 2000.

1.What measures does the Commission intend to take to help Member States address this serious problem we are facing?

2.What resources does it intend to deploy and in what timeframe?

3.What is the situation with the infrastructure projects concerned?

Supporters[1]

Submitted: 26.3.2025

[1] This question is supported by Members other than the authors: Jean-Paul Garraud (PfE), Julien Leonardelli (PfE)
Last updated: 2 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Increasing frequency of climate whiplash events affecting European cities – E-001260/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001260/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
César Luena (S&D)

A new report reveals how cities worldwide are increasingly exposed to extreme droughts followed by floods due to climate change. This phenomenon, i.e. the abrupt change between dry and wet conditions, is known as a ‘climate whiplash’. The study[1], conducted by WaterAid together with academics from the universities of Bristol and Cardiff, analysed the world’s 100 most populous cities and found that 90% of all climate-related disasters involve either an excess or a shortage of water and that these events have increased fourfold in the last 50 years. In Europe, all the cities analysed showed a trend of increasing aridity over the last forty-two years.

1.Does the Commission plan to address climate whiplashes with measures to mitigate them in the future water resilience strategy?

2.Given that drought affects the quality of drinking water, how is the effective implementation of the Drinking Water Directive ensured in cities most vulnerable to these phenomena?

3.In what way is the Commission collaborating with Member States to implement nature-based solutions that mitigate the effects of climate whiplashes, in line with the EU Biodiversity Strategy?

Submitted: 26.3.2025

[1] https://washmatters.wateraid.org/sites/g/files/jkxoof256/files/2025-03/Water-and-climate-Rising-risks-for-urban-populations.pdf
Last updated: 2 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Supporting autonomous vehicles and innovation in the EU automotive sector – E-001267/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001267/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Pierfrancesco Maran (S&D)

The action plan for the automotive sector identifies autonomous vehicles (AVs) as a key technology that is expected to generate a global added value for the sector of EUR 400 billion by 2035. However, while the United States and China have moved forward with AV deployment, in Europe we are lagging behind.

Our automotive industry is at a critical juncture and must embrace advanced technologies to remain globally competitive. AVs represent a key sector where the EU could invest more, as highlighted in the Draghi report, but progress is being hindered by fragmentation in the single market and other constraints. We need to create a single market to support the innovation and deployment of AVs.

In the light of this, can the Commission:

1.Clarify the timeline for updating the regulatory framework for AVs, particularly regarding the lifting of the restriction on small series vehicles?

2.Lay out the steps for establishing large-scale test beds for AVs and indicate what concrete objectives (in terms of number of vehicles deployed) it will set for these test beds?

3.Explain when we can expect the number of AVs on the EU’s roads to match the number of those on US roads, currently estimated at 1 000 vehicles with high levels of automation?

Submitted: 26.3.2025
Last updated: 2 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Temporary fishing restriction in the Bay of Biscay – E-001224/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001224/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Siegbert Frank Droese (ESN)

1.What is the scientific basis for the Commission’s decision that a short-term fishing ban from 22 January to 20 February over the next few years will be enough to sustainably protect stocks of dolphin and other marine mammals in the Bay of Biscay?

2.Why is the Commission focusing on a temporary ban instead of on alternative measures such as more selective fishing methods or permanent protected areas?

3.How will it be ensured that this short-term restriction does not simply lead to increased fishing after the period ends?

Submitted: 24.3.2025
Last updated: 2 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Impact of the delay in State aid approval for Solar Package I on agri-photovoltaics and European competitiveness – E-001269/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001269/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Andreas Schwab (PPE)

Solar Package I came into force in Germany on 16 May 2024. Certain aspects require State aid approval from the Commission, including support for agri-photovoltaics (agri-PV) on agricultural land.

Agri-PV enables dual land use, increases agricultural resilience and contributes to the energy transition. The fact that State aid approval is still pending is creating significant economic uncertainty for farmers and companies.

The delay threatens the economic stability of companies investing in agri-PV and a swift decision is crucial to avoid jeopardising the EU’s climate goals.

1.How does the Commission assess the challenges faced by agri-PV projects that rely on the swift approval of Solar Package I, especially as in some Member States, Recovery and Resilience Facility funds can already be used for agri-PV?

2.What measures is the Commission taking to ensure that investments already made in agri-PV projects do not become unprofitable due to the delay?

3.What steps does the Commission plan to take to make future State aid approvals for agri-PV faster and more predictable to ensure investment security?

Submitted: 26.3.2025
Last updated: 2 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Toxic waste water from chemical tankers released into the Baltic Sea – E-001265/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001265/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Maria Ohisalo (Verts/ALE)

Chemical tankers are discarding cancer-causing waste water into the Baltic Sea. When chemical tankers’ tanks are washed at sea, chemicals such as tall oil, styrene and benzene[1] are spilled into the sea.

For instance, the company Borealis Polymer[2] admits to releasing chemicals such as benzene into the Baltic Sea when washing its tanks relatively close to coastal settlements near Porvoo, Finland. Benzene can cause cancer, mutations and is toxic to aquatic organisms, including fish.

Despite the high environmental and health risks, this practice remains legal.

1.What action is the Commission taking to ensure that chemical tankers adhere to stricter environmental regulations regarding chemical discharge into the ocean?

2.What other measures is the Commission taking to address the issue of chemicals being released into the ocean?

Submitted: 26.3.2025

[1] https://johnnurmisensaatio.fi/mita-teemme/hankkeet/kemikaalialushanke/.

[2] https://www.hs.fi/alueet/art-2000011062707.html.
Last updated: 2 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – National implementation plans for the New Pact on Migration and Asylum – E-003038/2024(ASW)
Source: European Parliament
A swift and effective implementation of the Pact on Migration and Asylum[1] (Pact) is a top priority for the Commission. Almost all Member States have submitted their national implementation plans to the Commission.

The Commission is in regular contact with all Member States and is supporting them in making sure that they will be ready to fully implement the Pact in June 2026.

The Commission will regularly inform the European Parliament and the Council about the state of play with regard to the implementation of the Pact, in line with its obligations under the Asylum and Migration Management Regulation[2].

The Commission also kindly refers the Honourable Members to the exchanges taking place within the Working Group on Asylum — Implementation of the Pact/Common European Asylum System (Asylum Working Group) of the European Parliament Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs.

[1] https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/migration-and-asylum/pact-migration-and-asylum_en

[2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1351/oj/eng
Last updated: 2 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Negotiations on the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement – P-002536/2024(ASW)
Source: European Parliament
Sustainability impact assessments (SIAs) are independent assessments produced by external consultants on behalf of the Commission.

These usually analyse the impact of trade agreements on the EU as a whole. Similarly, the Commission is currently analysing the economic impact of the negotiated outcome which is expected to be concluded before the proposal for signature and conclusion is sent by the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament.

Member States are free to carry out their own SIAs based on their perceived exposure to the agreement. For instance, the Irish government requested an independent economic and sustainability impact assessment for Ireland of the EU-Mercosur Agreement[1].

The Belgian government commissioned an independent economic impact assessment for Belgium of the EU-Mercosur Agreement on the impact for Belgian economic sectors[2].

Another study was carried out by Wageningen Economic & Research[3] assessing the impact of the EU-Mercosur Agreement on the Netherlands.

Now that a final political agreement has been reached between the EU and Mercosur, and after completion of the legal verification and translation into all official languages, the Commission will transmit a proposal to the Council and the European Parliament for signature and conclusion of the agreement.

In that context, the Commission will present its proposal for the legal basis and architecture of the deal after an assessment of the outcome of the negotiations.

[1] https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/1c8a6-economic-and-sustainability-impact-assessment-for-ireland-of-the-eu-mercosur-trade-agreement/

[2] https://economie.fgov.be/fr/publications/accord-de-libre-echange-entre

[3] Wageningen University & Research — Report 2020-065: Effecten van het EU-Mercosur akkoord op de Nederlandse economie: https://research.wur.nl/en/publications/effecten-van-het-eu-mercosur-akkoord-op-de-nederlandse-economie
Last updated: 2 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Unfair trade practices of Türkiye at the expense of Cyprus and the EU single market – E-000068/2025(ASW)
Source: European Parliament
The United Kingdom-Türkiye free trade agreement came into effect on 1 January 2021, coinciding with the day of Brexit.

The consecutive conclusions of the Council[1] and the European Council emphasised the EU’s readiness to engage with Türkiye in areas of common interest in a phased, proportionate and reversible manner and recalled the need to address difficulties in the implementation of the Customs Union, including ensuring its effective application to all Member States .

The Commission reiterates the imperative to apply the Customs Union to Cyprus in all the high-level meetings with Türkiye. Most recently the issue was discussed at the EU-Türkiye Customs Union Joint Committee on 4 December 2024.

[1] See for most recent conclusions: Council conclusions on Enlargement as approved by the Council on 17 December 2024, recitals 98 and 99.
Last updated: 2 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Construction work on the A69 motorway in France halted – E-001231/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001231/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Julien Leonardelli (PfE), Sarah Knafo (ESN), Christophe Gomart (PPE), André Rougé (PfE), Valérie Deloge (PfE), Mélanie Disdier (PfE), Céline Imart (PPE), Angéline Furet (PfE), Philippe Olivier (PfE), Gilles Pennelle (PfE)

The Toulouse Administrative Court has halted construction work on the A69 motorway in France, connecting Toulouse and Castres, which had been keenly awaited by the vast majority of locals[1].

The court’s judgment has dashed the hopes of residents in remote areas of Occitania. While ultra-liberalism continues its headlong rush towards Mercosur countries, Canada and Oceania, residents in rural areas in Europe continue to lack access to all infrastructure.

Despite the fact that EUR 300 million has already been allocated to the project and that construction is well under way[2], it appears that a European country has given in to pressure from far-left associations that, besides taking legal action, have also resorted to violence[3].

The project would enhance connectivity between the Mediterranean and Atlantic corridors of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T).

1.Does the Commission agree that access for people in rural regions far from cities needs to be improved?

2.Will the Commission condemn the far-left associations, radical ecologists and Antifa groups for using violence to oppose the implementation of European projects that form part of the TEN-T comprehensive network?

Supporter[4]

Submitted: 24.3.2025

[1] https://www.lemonde.fr/planete/article/2025/03/08/pres-de-castres-les-partisans-de-l-a69-manifestent-pour-demander-la-poursuite-du-chantier_6577377_3244.html

[2] According to Atosca, 65% of the budget for the A69, or EUR 300 million of the EUR 480 million budgeted, has already been used.

[3] https://www.ladepeche.fr/2024/06/08/autoroute-a69-gendarmes-et-manifestants-blesses-extreme-violence-le-prefet-du-tarn-dresse-le-bilan-de-la-journee-12003426.php

[4] This question is supported by a Member other than the authors: Julie Rechagneux (PfE)
Last updated: 2 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Reducing and sharing network costs – P-001316/2025
Source: European Parliament
Priority question for written answer P-001316/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Bas Eickhout (Verts/ALE)

The Dutch Government recently published a report on funding electricity infrastructure[1], which concluded that network tariffs will triple by 2040 due to the massive investments required. This sharp increase in costs will raise household and industry bills, hampering electrification. While a range of measures is needed to address this challenge, two critical areas urgently require a legislative response from the Commission: the spreading of costs over time (amortisation) and international cost-sharing.

1.Given that amortisation has already been approved and implemented for hydrogen networks within the EU through intertemporal cost allocation in the hydrogen and gas decarbonisation package, can the Commission commit to implementing similar legislative changes for electricity grids as soon as possible?

2.Reducing network tariffs would provide Member States with a competitive advantage, but not all have the fiscal capacity to implement such measures. Therefore, can the Commission commit to taking action on common rules and financing to ensure a level playing field?

3.As voluntary cost-sharing mechanisms between Member States have not yielded sufficient results, does the Commission envisage taking legislative action in the upcoming EU action plan for grids to establish an effective cost-sharing mechanism?

Submitted: 31.3.2025

[1] https://open.overheid.nl/documenten/e914cc94-ffcd-42dd-9989-bf7c3fdd44f9/file.
Last updated: 2 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Vote on the Traineeship Directive – Committee on Culture and Education

Source: European Parliament

Traineeship © Image used under license from Adobe Stock

On April 8th, the Committee on Culture and Education (CULT) will vote on its Opinion on the ‘’Proposal for a Directive on improving and enforcing working conditions of trainees and combating regular employment relationships disguised as traineeships’’ (‘’Traineeships Directive’’).

The directive aims to strengthen protections for trainees and ensure fair working conditions across the EU. While the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs (EMPL) leads the file, CULT’s Opinion focuses on education and youth-related matters. Nicola Zingaretti (S&D), who is responsible for drafting the Opinion, has overseen its preparation ahead of the vote, which will contribute to the ongoing legislative process in the European Parliament.

MIL OSI Europe News –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – European Universities Alliances – Committee on Culture and Education

Source: European Parliament

The European Universities Initiative © Image used under the license of Adobe Stock

Ms. Laurence Farreng, will present her draft report on a new vision for the European Universities alliances during the CULT Committee meeting on 8 May. There are currently 65 alliances with the participation of over 570 universities. The report advocates for a long-term, transformative approach to enhance academic excellence and Europe’s strategic position.

MIL OSI Europe News –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement on China’s military exercises, 2 April 2025
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

Government response

Statement on China’s military exercises, 2 April 2025

The FCDO has issued a statement in response to the latest Chinese military exercises around Taiwan.
An FCDO spokesperson said:

We are concerned by China’s military exercises around Taiwan, part of a pattern of activity which is increasing tensions and risking dangerous escalation in the Taiwan Strait.

The UK reaffirms our clear interest in peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, which is of critical importance to global prosperity, and our support for a free and open Indo-Pacific.

We consider the Taiwan issue one to be settled peacefully by people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait through constructive dialogue, without the threat or use of force or coercion. Military drills or threats to Taiwan are not conducive to such dialogue. We do not support any unilateral attempts to change the status quo.

We call for restraint and the avoidance of any further actions that may undermine peace and stability.

Media enquiries

Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

Telephone 020 7008 3100

Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

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Updates to this page

Published 2 April 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 3, 2025