Source: Switzerland – Federal Administration in English
On 2 April, the chief negotiators from Switzerland and the European Union initialled an agreement in Brussels on Switzerland’s participation in EU programmes. The agreement comes into force once the overall Switzerland-EU package has been ratified, but could already be applied provisionally after the signing, which is due to take place in November.
Source: European Parliament
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PV-10-2025-04-01
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IN THE CHAIR: Roberta METSOLA
The sitting opened at 09:01. |
European Council and Commission statements: Conclusions of the European Council meeting of 20 March 2025 (2024/2980(RSP)) António Costa (President of the European Council) and Ursula von der Leyen (President of the Commission) made the statements. The following spoke: Manfred Weber, on behalf of the PPE Group, Iratxe García Pérez, on behalf of the S&D Group, Kinga Gál, on behalf of the PfE Group, Nicola Procaccini, on behalf of the ECR Group, Valérie Hayer, on behalf of the Renew Group, Terry Reintke, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Manon Aubry, on behalf of The Left Group, Alexander Sell, on behalf of the ESN Group, Dolors Montserrat, Raphaël Glucksmann, Jean-Paul Garraud, Patryk Jaki, Billy Kelleher, Virginijus Sinkevičius, Pasquale Tridico, Zsuzsanna Borvendég, Ruth Firmenich, Siegfried Mureşan, Paolo Borchia, Nicolas Bay, Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy, Hannah Neumann, Li Andersson, Katarína Roth Neveďalová, Željana Zovko, Alex Agius Saliba, Anna Bryłka, Charlie Weimers, Hilde Vautmans, Reinier Van Lanschot, Paulo Cunha, who also answered a blue-card question from João Oliveira, Christel Schaldemose, Gilles Pennelle, Carlo Fidanza, Svenja Hahn, Tom Berendsen (the President spoke about Siegbert Frank Droese’s behaviour following Hannah Neumann’s speech), Javier Moreno Sánchez, Harald Vilimsky, Johan Van Overtveldt, Marie-Pierre Vedrenne, Reinhold Lopatka, Dan Nica, Emmanouil Fragkos, Ľubica Karvašová, Danuše Nerudová, Marta Temido, Anna Zalewska, Karlo Ressler, Elio Di Rupo, François-Xavier Bellamy, Aodhán Ó Ríordáin and Brando Benifei. The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Dariusz Joński, Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis, Anna Maria Cisint, Sebastian Tynkkynen, João Oliveira, Siegbert Frank Droese, Lukas Sieper, Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Bruno Gonçalves and Seán Kelly. The following spoke: Maroš Šefčovič (Member of the Commission) and António Costa. The debate closed. |
Statement by the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy: Russia’s war crimes in Ukraine: standing with Ukraine and upholding justice (2025/2635(RSP)) The President said that there would be only one round of political group speakers and no catch-the-eye procedure or blue-card questions. Kaja Kallas (Vice President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy) made the statement. The following spoke: Sandra Kalniete, on behalf of the PPE Group, Thijs Reuten, on behalf of the S&D Group, Anders Vistisen, on behalf of the PfE Group, Michał Dworczyk, on behalf of the ECR Group, Petras Auštrevičius, on behalf of the Renew Group, Villy Søvndal, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Martin Schirdewan, on behalf of The Left Group, and René Aust, on behalf of the ESN Group. The following spoke: Kaja Kallas. The debate closed. |
In accordance with Rule 164(2), the President proposed the following amendment of the agenda, with the agreement of the political groups: Wednesday/Thursday The vote on ‘Energy-intensive industries’ (item 24 on the agenda) would be held over until voting time on Thursday. Parliament agreed to the proposal. The agenda was amended accordingly. (The sitting was suspended at 11:54.) |
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IN THE CHAIR: Esteban GONZÁLEZ PONS
The sitting resumed at 12:01. |
For detailed results of the votes, see also ‘Results of votes’ and ‘Results of roll-call votes’. |
Amending Directives (EU) 2022/2464 and (EU) 2024/1760 as regards the dates from which Member States are to apply certain corporate sustainability reporting and due diligence requirements (COM(2025)0080 – C10-0038/2025 – 2025/0044(COD)) – JURI Committee REQUEST FOR AN URGENT DECISION by the PPE Group (Rule 170(6)) Approved The following tabling deadlines had been set: – amendments: Wednesday 2 April 2025 at 13:00 Vote: 3 April 2025. The following had spoken: Tomas Tobé, on behalf of the PPE Group (the author of the request), and Manon Aubry against. Detailed voting results
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Report on the request for the waiver of the immunity of Jana Nagyová [2024/2035(IMM)] – Committee on Legal Affairs. Rapporteur: Krzysztof Śmiszek (A10-0029/2025) (Majority of the votes cast) PROPOSAL FOR A DECISION Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0040) Detailed voting results
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Report on the request for waiver of the immunity of Petr Bystron [2024/2048(IMM)] – Committee on Legal Affairs. Rapporteur: Dominik Tarczyński (A10-0030/2025) (Majority of the votes cast) PROPOSAL FOR A DECISION Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0041) Detailed voting results
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Report on the request for the waiver of the immunity of Maciej Wąsik [2024/2043(IMM)] – Committee on Legal Affairs. Rapporteur: Mario Furore (A10-0031/2025) (Majority of the votes cast) PROPOSAL FOR A DECISION Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0042) Detailed voting results
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Report on the request for the waiver of the immunity of Mariusz Kamiński [2024/2046(IMM)] – Committee on Legal Affairs. Rapporteur: Mario Furore (A10-0032/2025) (Majority of the votes cast) PROPOSAL FOR A DECISION Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0043) Detailed voting results
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Report on the nomination of Lucian Romașcanu as a Member of the Court of Auditors [05958/2025 – C10-0010/2025 – 2025/0801(NLE)] – Committee on Budgetary Control. Rapporteur: Tomáš Zdechovský (A10-0039/2025) (Majority of the votes cast) APPOINTMENT OF LUCIAN ROMAȘCANU Approved (P10_TA(2025)0044) The list of Members voting is annexed to these minutes (minutes of 1.4.2025 Annex 1) Detailed voting results
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Report on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a common data platform on chemicals, laying down rules to ensure that the data contained in it are findable, accessible, interoperable and reusable and establishing a monitoring and outlook framework for chemicals [COM(2023)0779 – C9-0449/2023 – 2023/0453(COD)] – Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety. Rapporteur: Dimitris Tsiodras (A10-0018/2025) (Majority of the votes cast) COMMISSION PROPOSAL and AMENDMENTS Approved by single vote (P10_TA(2025)0045) REQUEST FOR REFERRAL BACK TO COMMITTEE Approved The following had spoken: Dimitris Tsiodras (rapporteur), after the vote on the Commission’s proposal, to request that the matter be referred back to the committee responsible, for interinstitutional negotiations, in accordance with Rule 60(4). Detailed voting results
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Report on the proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Directive 2011/65/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards the re-attribution of scientific and technical tasks to the European Chemicals Agency [COM(2023)0781 – C9-0448/2023 – 2023/0454(COD)] – Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety. Rapporteur: Dimitris Tsiodras (A10-0019/2025) (Majority of the votes cast) COMMISSION PROPOSAL and AMENDMENTS Approved by single vote (P10_TA(2025)0046) REQUEST FOR REFERRAL BACK TO COMMITTEE Approved The following had spoken: Dimitris Tsiodras (rapporteur), after the vote on the Commission’s proposal, to request that the matter be referred back to the committee responsible, for interinstitutional negotiations, in accordance with Rule 60(4). Detailed voting results
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Report on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulations (EC) No 178/2002, (EC) No 401/2009, (EU) 2017/745 and (EU) 2019/1021 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards the re-attribution of scientific and technical tasks and improving cooperation among Union agencies in the area of chemicals [COM(2023)0783 – C9-0447/2023 – 2023/0455(COD)] – Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety. Rapporteur: Dimitris Tsiodras (A10-0020/2025) (Majority of the votes cast) COMMISSION PROPOSAL and AMENDMENTS Approved by single vote (P10_TA(2025)0047) REQUEST FOR REFERRAL BACK TO COMMITTEE Approved The following had spoken: Dimitris Tsiodras (rapporteur), after the vote on the Commission’s proposal, to request that the matter be referred back to the committee responsible, for interinstitutional negotiations, in accordance with Rule 60(4). Detailed voting results
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Report on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on providing macro-financial assistance to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan [COM(2024)0159 – C9-0146/2024 – 2024/0086(COD)] – Committee on International Trade. Rapporteur: Céline Imart (A10-0038/2025) (Majority of the votes cast) COMMISSION PROPOSAL Approved (P10_TA(2025)0048) Parliament’s first reading thus closed. Detailed voting results
10 The following had spoken: Michael McGrath (Member of the Commission), before the vote, to make a statement. |
Report on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on providing macro-financial assistance to the Arab Republic of Egypt [COM(2024)0461 – C10-0009/2024 – 2024/0071(COD)] – Committee on International Trade. Rapporteur: Céline Imart (A10-0037/2025) (Majority of the votes cast) COMMISSION PROPOSAL and AMENDMENTS Approved (P10_TA(2025)0049) REQUEST FOR REFERRAL BACK TO COMMITTEE Approved Detailed voting results
11 Procedural motions: – Michael McGrath (Member of the Commission), before the vote, to make a statement. – Céline Imart (rapporteur), after the vote on the Commission’s proposal, to request that the matter be referred back to the committee responsible, for interinstitutional negotiations, in accordance with Rule 60(4). |
Report on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) 2018/196 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 7 February 2018 on additional customs duties on imports of certain products originating in the United States of America [COM(2025)0027 – C10-0007/2025 – 2025/0012(COD)] – Committee on International Trade. Rapporteur: Bernd Lange (A10-0034/2025) (Majority of the votes cast) PROVISIONAL AGREEMENT Adopted (P10_TA(2025)0050) Parliament’s first reading thus closed. Detailed voting results
12 (The sitting was suspended at 12:27.) |
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IN THE CHAIR: Sabine VERHEYEN
The sitting resumed at 12:31. |
The minutes of the previous sitting were approved. |
Report on the implementation of the common foreign and security policy – 2024 annual report [2024/2080(INI)] – Committee on Foreign Affairs. Rapporteur: David McAllister (A10-0010/2025) David McAllister and Nicolás Pascual de la Parte introduced the reports. The following spoke: Kaja Kallas (Vice President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy). The following spoke: Michael Gahler, on behalf of the PPE Group, Sven Mikser, on behalf of the S&D Group, Kinga Gál, on behalf of the PfE Group, Adam Bielan, on behalf of the ECR Group, Urmas Paet, on behalf of the Renew Group, Marc Botenga, on behalf of The Left Group, Stanislav Stoyanov, on behalf of the ESN Group, Rasa Juknevičienė, Tobias Cremer, António Tânger Corrêa, Alberico Gambino, Bart Groothuis, Hannah Neumann, Özlem Demirel, Marcin Sypniewski, Monika Beňová, Łukasz Kohut, Yannis Maniatis, Pierre-Romain Thionnet, Rihards Kols, Hilde Vautmans, Jaume Asens Llodrà, Lynn Boylan, Hans Neuhoff, Francisco José Millán Mon, Nacho Sánchez Amor, Afroditi Latinopoulou, Nathalie Loiseau, Hanna Gedin, Salvatore De Meo, Hana Jalloul Muro, Claudiu-Richard Târziu, Petras Auštrevičius, Davor Ivo Stier, who also answered a blue-card question from Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă, Tonino Picula, Lucia Yar, Vangelis Meimarakis, who also answered a blue-card question from Petras Gražulis, Thijs Reuten, Marta Wcisło, Riho Terras, Antonio López-Istúriz White, Mārtiņš Staķis, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, and Sebastian Tynkkynen. The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Tomislav Sokol, João Oliveira, Željana Zovko, Lukas Sieper and Michał Szczerba. The following spoke: Kaja Kallas, David McAllister and Nicolás Pascual de la Parte. The debate closed. Vote: 2 April 2025. |
Report on human rights and democracy in the world and the European Union’s policy on the matter – annual report 2024 [2024/2081(INI)] – Committee on Foreign Affairs. Rapporteur: Isabel Wiseler-Lima (A10-0012/2025) Isabel Wiseler-Lima introduced the report. The following spoke: Kaja Kallas (Vice President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy). The following spoke: Abir Al-Sahlani (rapporteur for the opinion of the FEMM Committee), Antonio López-Istúriz White, on behalf of the PPE Group, Francisco Assis, on behalf of the S&D Group, Christophe Bay, on behalf of the PfE Group, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, on behalf of the ECR Group, Barry Andrews, on behalf of the Renew Group, Catarina Vieira, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Kathleen Funchion, on behalf of The Left Group, Petr Bystron, on behalf of the ESN Group, Reinhold Lopatka, Elisabeth Grossmann, Silvia Sardone, Sophie Wilmès, Mounir Satouri, Alvise Pérez, Liudas Mažylis, Marco Tarquinio, András László, who also answered a blue-card question from Catarina Vieira, Loucas Fourlas, Chloé Ridel, who also answered a blue-card question from João Oliveira, Hermann Tertsch, Emmanouil Kefalogiannis, Evin Incir and Alice Teodorescu Måwe. The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Sunčana Glavak, Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Lukas Sieper and Michał Wawrykiewicz. The following spoke: Kaja Kallas. IN THE CHAIR: Roberts ZĪLE The following spoke: Isabel Wiseler-Lima. The debate closed. Vote: 2 April 2025. |
Commission statement: Presentation of the new European Internal Security Strategy (2025/2608(RSP)) Magnus Brunner (Member of the Commission) made the statement. The following spoke: Tomas Tobé, on behalf of the PPE Group, Birgit Sippel, on behalf of the S&D Group, Fabrice Leggeri, on behalf of the PfE Group, Assita Kanko, on behalf of the ECR Group, Malik Azmani, on behalf of the Renew Group, Saskia Bricmont, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Giuseppe Antoci, on behalf of The Left Group, Mary Khan, on behalf of the ESN Group, Jeroen Lenaers, Thijs Reuten, Jorge Buxadé Villalba, Alessandro Ciriani, Moritz Körner, who also answered a blue-card question from Lukas Sieper, Lena Düpont, Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Petra Steger, Mariusz Kamiński, François-Xavier Bellamy, Marieke Ehlers, Charlie Weimers, Javier Zarzalejos, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, who also declined to take a blue-card question from Dariusz Joński, Paulo Cunha, who also answered a blue-card question from João Oliveira, Elena Donazzan, Maciej Wąsik and Gheorghe Piperea. The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Dariusz Joński, José Cepeda, João Oliveira, Sunčana Glavak, Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă, Ana Miguel Pedro and Lukas Sieper. The following spoke: Henna Virkkunen (Executive Vice-President of the Commission). The debate closed. |
Commission statement: EU Preparedness Union Strategy (2025/2641(RSP)) Hadja Lahbib (Member of the Commission) made the statement. The following spoke: Lena Düpont, on behalf of the PPE Group. IN THE CHAIR: Pina PICIERNO The following spoke: Yannis Maniatis, on behalf of the S&D Group, Roberto Vannacci, on behalf of the PfE Group, Beata Szydło, on behalf of the ECR Group, Grégory Allione, on behalf of the Renew Group, Diana Riba i Giner, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Ana Miranda Paz, on the language used by a Member during this debate (the President agreed), Merja Kyllönen, on behalf of The Left Group, Christine Anderson, on behalf of the ESN Group (the President reminded the House of the rules on conduct), Lukas Mandl, Christophe Clergeau, Christophe Bay, Elena Donazzan, Anna-Maja Henriksson, Ville Niinistö, Catarina Martins, Cecilia Strada, who referred to the speech of Roberto Vannacci (the President reiterated the need to respect the rules on conduct), Kostas Papadakis, who also answered a blue-card question from João Oliveira, Tomislav Sokol, Heléne Fritzon, Barbara Bonte, Adrian-George Axinia, who also declined to take a blue-card question from Alvise Pérez, Nathalie Loiseau, Lena Schilling, Luke Ming Flanagan, Massimiliano Salini, Annalisa Corrado, Juan Carlos Girauta Vidal, who also declined to take a blue-card question from Grégory Allione, Michał Dworczyk, Nicolás Pascual de la Parte, Leire Pajín, Matej Tonin, Tobias Cremer, Victor Negrescu and Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis. The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Hélder Sousa Silva, Laura Ballarín Cereza, Ana Miranda Paz, Cecilia Strada, Juan Fernando López Aguilar, João Oliveira and Maria Zacharia. The following spoke: Hadja Lahbib. The debate closed. |
Council and Commission statements: Improving the implementation of cohesion policy through the mid-term review to achieve a robust cohesion policy post 2027 (2025/2648(RSP)) Adam Szłapka (President-in-Office of the Council) and Raffaele Fitto (Executive Vice-President of the Commission) made the statements. The following spoke: Andrey Novakov, on behalf of the PPE Group, Mohammed Chahim, on behalf of the S&D Group, Rody Tolassy, on behalf of the PfE Group, Denis Nesci, on behalf of the ECR Group, Ľubica Karvašová, on behalf of the Renew Group, Cristina Guarda, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Elena Kountoura, on behalf of the The Left Group, Gabriella Gerzsenyi, Marcos Ros Sempere, Şerban Dimitrie Sturdza, Ciaran Mullooly, Gordan Bosanac, who also answered a blue-card question from Lukas Sieper. IN THE CHAIR: Esteban GONZÁLEZ PONS The following spoke: Dan-Ştefan Motreanu, Victor Negrescu, Antonella Sberna, Raquel García Hermida-Van Der Walle, Christian Doleschal, Carla Tavares, who also answered a blue-card question from Ana Miranda Paz, Elsi Katainen, Elena Nevado del Campo, who also answered a blue-card question from Raquel García Hermida-Van Der Walle, Estelle Ceulemans, Joachim Streit, Jacek Protas and Hannes Heide. The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Nikolina Brnjac, Rosa Serrano Sierra, Ana Miranda Paz, Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă, Francisco José Millán Mon, Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Paulo Do Nascimento Cabral and Maria Grapini. The following spoke: Raffaele Fitto and Adam Szłapka. The debate closed. |
Statement by the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy: Safeguarding the access to democratic media, such as Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (2025/2630(RSP)) Marta Kos (Member of the Commission) made the statement on behalf of the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. The following spoke: Sebastião Bugalho, on behalf of the PPE Group, Nils Ušakovs, on behalf of the S&D Group, António Tânger Corrêa, on behalf of the PfE Group, Małgorzata Gosiewska, on behalf of the ECR Group, Irena Joveva, on behalf of the Renew Group, Virginijus Sinkevičius, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Milan Uhrík, on behalf of the ESN Group, Andrey Kovatchev, Francisco Assis, Hermann Tertsch, Alexandr Vondra, Dan Barna, Mary Khan, who also answered a blue-card question from Tomáš Zdechovský, Erik Kaliňák, who also answered a blue-card question from Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Ondřej Kolář, Robert Biedroń, Virginie Joron, Rihards Kols, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Petar Volgin, Fidias Panayiotou, Rasa Juknevičienė, Hannes Heide, Csaba Dömötör, who also answered a blue-card question from Gabriella Gerzsenyi, Claudiu-Richard Târziu, Laurence Farreng, Elena Yoncheva, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Evin Incir, who also answered a blue-card question from Fidias Panayiotou, and Julien Sanchez. IN THE CHAIR: Antonella SBERNA The following spoke: Helmut Brandstätter, Mika Aaltola, Michał Kobosko, Alice Teodorescu Måwe and Tomáš Zdechovský. The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Radan Kanev, Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă and Gabriella Gerzsenyi. The following spoke: Marta Kos. The debate closed. |
Statement by the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy: Crackdown on democracy in Türkiye and the arrest of Ekrem İmamoğlu (2025/2642(RSP)) Marta Kos (Member of the Commission) made the statement on behalf of the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. The following spoke: Emmanouil Kefalogiannis, on behalf of the PPE Group, Nacho Sánchez Amor, on behalf of the S&D Group, Susanna Ceccardi, on behalf of the PfE Group, Assita Kanko, on behalf of the ECR Group, Malik Azmani, on behalf of the Renew Group, Vladimir Prebilič, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Giorgos Georgiou, on behalf of The Left Group, Michalis Hadjipantela, Kathleen Van Brempt, Mathilde Androuët, Bernard Guetta, Mélissa Camara, Özlem Demirel, Reinhold Lopatka, Joanna Scheuring-Wielgus, Željana Zovko, Nikos Papandreou, Elissavet Vozemberg-Vrionidi and Dario Nardella. The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Sebastian Tynkkynen, Ana Miranda Paz, Hanna Gedin, Maria Zacharia, Lefteris Nikolaou-Alavanos, Lukas Sieper and Fidias Panayiotou. The following spoke: Marta Kos. The debate closed. |
Statement by the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy: Dramatic situation in Gaza and the need for an immediate return to the full implementation of the ceasefire and hostage release agreement (2025/2644(RSP)) Kaja Kallas (Vice President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy) made the statement. The following spoke: Hildegard Bentele, on behalf of the PPE Group, Evin Incir, on behalf of the S&D Group, Fabrice Leggeri, on behalf of the PfE Group, Bert-Jan Ruissen, on behalf of the ECR Group, Hilde Vautmans, on behalf of the Renew Group, Villy Søvndal, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Irene Montero, on behalf of The Left Group, Alice Teodorescu Måwe, Sebastiaan Stöteler, Hana Jalloul Muro, Barry Andrews, Ana Miranda Paz, Giorgos Georgiou, Ondřej Kolář, who also answered a blue-card question from Rima Hassan, and Matjaž Nemec. IN THE CHAIR: Ewa KOPACZ The following spoke: Tomáš Kubín, Leoluca Orlando, Danilo Della Valle, Céline Imart, who also answered a blue-card question from Benedetta Scuderi, Marta Temido, Saskia Bricmont, Estrella Galán, Aodhán Ó Ríordáin, Mimmo Lucano, and Marit Maij and Benedetta Scuderi, on the language sometimes used during this debate (the President took note). The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Davor Ivo Stier, Daniel Attard, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Vladimir Prebilič and Marc Botenga. The following spoke: Kaja Kallas. The debate closed. |
Council and Commission statements: Targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo – defending religious freedom and security (2025/2612(RSP)) Kaja Kallas (Vice President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy) made the statement. The following spoke: Lukas Mandl, on behalf of the PPE Group, Marit Maij, on behalf of the S&D Group, Thierry Mariani, on behalf of the PfE Group, Patryk Jaki, on behalf of the ECR Group, Hilde Vautmans, on behalf of the Renew Group, Mounir Satouri, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Marc Botenga, on behalf of The Left Group, Tomasz Froelich, on behalf of the ESN Group, Wouter Beke, Francisco Assis, György Hölvényi, Alexander Sell, Nikolaos Anadiotis, Reinhold Lopatka, Anja Arndt, Ingeborg Ter Laak and Davor Ivo Stier. The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Margarita de la Pisa Carrión, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, Saskia Bricmont, Bert-Jan Ruissen and Sebastian Tynkkynen. The following spoke: Kaja Kallas. Motions for resolutions tabled under Rule 136(2) to wind up the debate: minutes of 3.4.2025, item I. The debate closed. Vote: 3 April 2025. |
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Explanations of vote submitted in writing under Rule 201 appear on the Members’ pages on Parliament’s website. |
The next sitting would be held the following day, 2 April 2025, starting at 09:00. The agenda was available on Parliament’s website. |
In accordance with Rule 208(3), the minutes of the sitting would be put to the House for approval at the beginning of the afternoon of the next sitting. |
The sitting closed at 22:07. |
| LIST OF DOCUMENTS SERVING AS A BASIS FOR THE DEBATES AND DECISIONS OF PARLIAMENT |
The following documents had been received from committees: – Report on Parliament’s estimates of revenue and expenditure for the financial year 2026 (2024/2111(BUI)) – BUDG Committee – Rapporteur: Matjaž Nemec (A10-0048/2025) |
| ATTENDANCE REGISTER | |
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Present: Aaltola Mika, Abadía Jover Maravillas, Adamowicz Magdalena, Aftias Georgios, Agirregoitia Martínez Oihane, Agius Peter, Agius Saliba Alex, Alexandraki Galato, Allione Grégory, Al-Sahlani Abir, Anadiotis Nikolaos, Anderson Christine, Andersson Li, Andresen Rasmus, Andrews Barry, Andriukaitis Vytenis Povilas, Androuët Mathilde, Angel Marc, Annemans Gerolf, Annunziata Lucia, Antoci Giuseppe, Arias Echeverría Pablo, Arimont Pascal, Arłukowicz Bartosz, Arnaoutoglou Sakis, Arndt Anja, Arvanitis Konstantinos, Asens Llodrà Jaume, Assis Francisco, Attard Daniel, Aubry Manon, Auštrevičius Petras, Axinia Adrian-George, Azmani Malik, Bajada Thomas, Baljeu Jeannette, Ballarín Cereza Laura, Barley Katarina, Barna Dan, Barrena Arza Pernando, Bartulica Stephen Nikola, Bartůšek Nikola, Bausemer Arno, Bay Nicolas, Bay Christophe, Beke Wouter, Beleris Fredis, Bellamy François-Xavier, Benifei Brando, Benjumea Benjumea Isabel, Beňová Monika, Bentele Hildegard, Berendsen Tom, Berger Stefan, Berlato Sergio, Bernhuber Alexander, Biedroń Robert, Bielan Adam, Bischoff Gabriele, Blaha Ľuboš, Blinkevičiūtė Vilija, Blom Rachel, Bloss Michael, Bocheński Tobiasz, Boeselager Damian, Bogdan Ioan-Rareş, Bonaccini Stefano, Bonte Barbara, Borchia Paolo, Borrás Pabón Mireia, Borvendég Zsuzsanna, Borzan Biljana, Bosanac Gordan, Boßdorf Irmhild, Bosse Stine, Botenga Marc, Boyer Gilles, Boylan Lynn, Brandstätter Helmut, Brasier-Clain Marie-Luce, Braun Grzegorz, Brejza Krzysztof, Bricmont Saskia, Brnjac Nikolina, Brudziński Joachim Stanisław, Bryłka Anna, Buchheit Markus, Buczek Tomasz, Buda Daniel, Buda Waldemar, Budka Borys, Bugalho Sebastião, Buła Andrzej, Bullmann Udo, Burkhardt Delara, Buxadé Villalba Jorge, Bystron Petr, Bžoch Jaroslav, Camara Mélissa, Canfin Pascal, Carberry Nina, Cârciu Gheorghe, Carême Damien, Casa David, Caspary Daniel, Castillo Laurent, del Castillo Vera Pilar, Cavazzini Anna, Cavedagna Stefano, Ceccardi Susanna, Cepeda José, Ceulemans Estelle, Chahim Mohammed, Chaibi Leila, Chastel Olivier, Chinnici Caterina, Christensen Asger, Ciccioli Carlo, Cifrová Ostrihoňová Veronika, Ciriani Alessandro, Cisint Anna Maria, Clausen Per, Clergeau Christophe, Cormand David, Corrado Annalisa, Costanzo Vivien, Cotrim De Figueiredo João, Cowen Barry, Cremer Tobias, Crespo Díaz Carmen, Cristea Andi, Crosetto Giovanni, Cunha Paulo, Dahl Henrik, Danielsson Johan, Dauchy Marie, Dávid Dóra, David Ivan, Decaro Antonio, de la Hoz Quintano Raúl, Della Valle Danilo, Deloge Valérie, De Masi Fabio, De Meo Salvatore, Demirel Özlem, Deutsch Tamás, Devaux Valérie, Dibrani Adnan, Diepeveen Ton, Dieringer Elisabeth, Dîncu Vasile, Di Rupo Elio, Disdier Mélanie, Dobrev Klára, Doherty Regina, Doleschal Christian, Dömötör Csaba, Do Nascimento Cabral Paulo, Dorfmann Herbert, Dostalova Klara, Dostál Ondřej, Droese Siegbert Frank, Düpont Lena, Dworczyk Michał, Ecke Matthias, Ehler Christian, Ehlers Marieke, Eriksson Sofie, Erixon Dick, Eroglu Engin, Estaràs Ferragut Rosa, Everding Sebastian, Ezcurra Almansa Alma, Falcă Gheorghe, Falcone Marco, Farantouris Nikolas, Farreng Laurence, Farský Jan, Ferber Markus, Ferenc Viktória, Fernández Jonás, Fidanza Carlo, Fiocchi Pietro, Firea Gabriela, Firmenich Ruth, Fita Claire, Flanagan Luke Ming, Fourlas Loucas, Fourreau Emma, Fragkos Emmanouil, Freund Daniel, Frigout Anne-Sophie, Friis Sigrid, Fritzon Heléne, Froelich Tomasz, Fuglsang Niels, Funchion Kathleen, Furet Angéline, Furore Mario, Gahler Michael, Gál Kinga, Galán Estrella, Gálvez Lina, Gambino Alberico, García Hermida-Van Der Walle Raquel, Garraud Jean-Paul, Gasiuk-Pihowicz Kamila, Geadi Geadis, Gedin Hanna, Geese Alexandra, Geier Jens, Geisel Thomas, Gemma Chiara, Georgiou Giorgos, Gerbrandy Gerben-Jan, Germain Jean-Marc, Gerzsenyi Gabriella, Geuking Niels, Gieseke Jens, Giménez Larraz Borja, Girauta Vidal Juan Carlos, Glavak Sunčana, Glück Andreas, Glucksmann Raphaël, Goerens Charles, Gomes Isilda, Gómez López Sandra, Gonçalves Bruno, Gonçalves Sérgio, González Casares Nicolás, González Pons Esteban, Gori Giorgio, Gosiewska Małgorzata, Gotink Dirk, Gozi Sandro, Grapini Maria, Gražulis Petras, Gregorová Markéta, Griset Catherine, Gronkiewicz-Waltz Hanna, Groothuis Bart, Grossmann Elisabeth, Grudler Christophe, Gualmini Elisabetta, Guarda Cristina, Guetta Bernard, Guzenina Maria, Győri Enikő, Gyürk András, Hadjipantela Michalis, Hahn Svenja, Haider Roman, Halicki Andrzej, Hansen Niels Flemming, Hassan Rima, Hauser Gerald, Häusling Martin, Hava Mircea-Gheorghe, Heide Hannes, Heinäluoma Eero, Henriksson Anna-Maja, Herbst Niclas, Herranz García Esther, Hetman Krzysztof, Hohlmeier Monika, Hojsík Martin, Holmgren Pär, Hölvényi György, Homs Ginel Alicia, Humberto Sérgio, Ijabs Ivars, Imart Céline, Incir Evin, Inselvini Paolo, Iovanovici Şoşoacă Diana, Jalloul Muro Hana, Jamet France, Jarubas Adam, Jerković Romana, Jongen Marc, Joński Dariusz, Joron Virginie, Jouvet Pierre, Joveva Irena, Juknevičienė Rasa, Junco García Nora, Jungbluth Alexander, Kalfon François, Kaliňák Erik, Kaljurand Marina, Kalniete Sandra, Kamiński Mariusz, Kanev Radan, Kanko Assita, Karlsbro Karin, Kartheiser Fernand, Karvašová Ľubica, Katainen Elsi, Kefalogiannis Emmanouil, Kelleher Billy, Keller Fabienne, Kelly Seán, Kemp Martine, Kennes Rudi, Khan Mary, Kircher Sophia, Knafo Sarah, Knotek Ondřej, Kobosko Michał, Kohut Łukasz, Kolář Ondřej, Kollár Kinga, Kols Rihards, Konečná Kateřina, Kopacz Ewa, Körner Moritz, Kountoura Elena, Kovařík Ondřej, Kovatchev Andrey, Krištopans Vilis, Kruis Sebastian, Krutílek Ondřej, Kubín Tomáš, Kuhnke Alice, Kulja András Tivadar, Kulmuni Katri, Kyllönen Merja, Kyuchyuk Ilhan, Lakos Eszter, Lalucq Aurore, Lange Bernd, Langensiepen Katrin, Laššáková Judita, László András, Latinopoulou Afroditi, Laurent Murielle, Laureti Camilla, Laykova Rada, Lazarov Ilia, Lazarus Luis-Vicențiu, Leggeri Fabrice, Lenaers Jeroen, Leonardelli Julien, Lewandowski Janusz, Lexmann Miriam, Liese Peter, Lins Norbert, Loiseau Nathalie, Løkkegaard Morten, Lopatka Reinhold, López Javi, López Aguilar Juan Fernando, López-Istúriz White Antonio, Lövin Isabella, Lucano Mimmo, Luena César, Łukacijewska Elżbieta Katarzyna, Lupo Giuseppe, McAllister David, Madison Jaak, Maestre Cristina, Magoni Lara, Maij Marit, Maląg Marlena, Manda Claudiu, Mandl Lukas, Maniatis Yannis, Mantovani Mario, Maran Pierfrancesco, Marczułajtis-Walczak Jagna, Maréchal Marion, Mariani Thierry, Marino Ignazio Roberto, Martins Catarina, Marzà Ibáñez Vicent, Mato Gabriel, Matthieu Sara, Mavrides Costas, Maydell Eva, Mayer Georg, Mazurek Milan, Mažylis Liudas, McNamara Michael, Mebarek Nora, Mehnert Alexandra, Meimarakis Vangelis, Mendes Ana Catarina, Mendia Idoia, Mertens Verena, Mesure Marina, Metsola Roberta, Metz Tilly, Mikser Sven, Milazzo Giuseppe, Minchev Nikola, Miranda Paz Ana, Molnár Csaba, Montero Irene, Montserrat Dolors, Morace Carolina, Morano Nadine, Moreira de Sá Tiago, Moreno Sánchez Javier, Moretti Alessandra, Motreanu Dan-Ştefan, Mularczyk Arkadiusz, Müller Piotr, Mullooly Ciaran, Mureşan Siegfried, Muşoiu Ştefan, Nagyová Jana, Nardella Dario, Navarrete Rojas Fernando, Negrescu Victor, Nemec Matjaž, Nerudová Danuše, Nesci Denis, Neuhoff Hans, Neumann Hannah, Nevado del Campo Elena, Nica Dan, Niebler Angelika, Niedermayer Luděk, Niinistö Ville, Nikolaou-Alavanos Lefteris, Ní Mhurchú Cynthia, Noichl Maria, Nordqvist Rasmus, Novakov Andrey, Nykiel Mirosława, Obajtek Daniel, Ódor Ľudovít, Oetjen Jan-Christoph, Ohisalo Maria, Oliveira João, Omarjee Younous, Ó Ríordáin Aodhán, Orlando Leoluca, Ozdoba Jacek, Paet Urmas, Pajín Leire, Palmisano Valentina, Panayiotou Fidias, Papadakis Kostas, Papandreou Nikos, Pappas Nikos, Pascual de la Parte Nicolás, Paulus Jutta, Pedro Ana Miguel, Pedulla’ Gaetano, Pellerin-Carlin Thomas, Peltier Guillaume, Penkova Tsvetelina, Pennelle Gilles, Pérez Alvise, Peter-Hansen Kira Marie, Petrov Hristo, Picaro Michele, Picierno Pina, Picula Tonino, Piera Pascale, Pietikäinen Sirpa, Pimpie Pierre, Piperea Gheorghe, de la Pisa Carrión Margarita, Pokorná Jermanová Jaroslava, Polato Daniele, Polfjärd Jessica, Popescu Virgil-Daniel, Pozņaks Reinis, Prebilič Vladimir, Princi Giusi, Protas Jacek, Pürner Friedrich, Rackete Carola, Radev Emil, Radtke Dennis, Rafowicz Emma, Ratas Jüri, Razza Ruggero, Rechagneux Julie, Regner Evelyn, Repasi René, Repp Sabrina, Ressler Karlo, Reuten Thijs, Riba i Giner Diana, Ricci Matteo, Ridel Chloé, Riehl Nela, Ripa Manuela, Rodrigues André, Ros Sempere Marcos, Roth Neveďalová Katarína, Rougé André, Ruissen Bert-Jan, Ruotolo Sandro, Rzońca Bogdan, Saeidi Arash, Salini Massimiliano, Salis Ilaria, Salla Aura, Sánchez Amor Nacho, Sanchez Julien, Sancho Murillo Elena, Saramo Jussi, Sardone Silvia, Šarec Marjan, Sargiacomo Eric, Satouri Mounir, Saudargas Paulius, Sbai Majdouline, Sberna Antonella, Schaldemose Christel, Schaller-Baross Ernő, Schenk Oliver, Scheuring-Wielgus Joanna, Schieder Andreas, Schilling Lena, Schneider Christine, Schwab Andreas, Scuderi Benedetta, Seekatz Ralf, Sell Alexander, Serrano Sierra Rosa, Serra Sánchez Isabel, Sidl Günther, Sienkiewicz Bartłomiej, Sieper Lukas, Simon Sven, Singer Christine, Sinkevičius Virginijus, Sippel Birgit, Sjöstedt Jonas, Śmiszek Krzysztof, Smith Anthony, Smit Sander, Sokol Tomislav, Solier Diego, Solís Pérez Susana, Sommen Liesbet, Sonneborn Martin, Sorel Malika, Sousa Silva Hélder, Søvndal Villy, Squarta Marco, Staķis Mārtiņš, Stancanelli Raffaele, Ştefănuță Nicolae, Steger Petra, Stier Davor Ivo, Storm Kristoffer, Stöteler Sebastiaan, Stoyanov Stanislav, Strack-Zimmermann Marie-Agnes, Strada Cecilia, Streit Joachim, Strik Tineke, Strolenberg Anna, Sturdza Şerban Dimitrie, Stürgkh Anna, Sypniewski Marcin, Szczerba Michał, Szekeres Pál, Szydło Beata, Tamburrano Dario, Tânger Corrêa António, Tarczyński Dominik, Tarquinio Marco, Tarr Zoltán, Târziu Claudiu-Richard, Tavares Carla, Tegethoff Kai, Temido Marta, Teodorescu Georgiana, Teodorescu Måwe Alice, Terheş Cristian, Ter Laak Ingeborg, Terras Riho, Tertsch Hermann, Thionnet Pierre-Romain, Timgren Beatrice, Tinagli Irene, Tobback Bruno, Tobé Tomas, Tolassy Rody, Tomac Eugen, Tomašič Zala, Tomaszewski Waldemar, Tomc Romana, Tonin Matej, Toom Jana, Topo Raffaele, Torselli Francesco, Tosi Flavio, Toussaint Marie, Tovaglieri Isabella, Toveri Pekka, Tridico Pasquale, Trochu Laurence, Tsiodras Dimitris, Turek Filip, Tynkkynen Sebastian, Uhrík Milan, Ušakovs Nils, Vaidere Inese, Valchev Ivaylo, Vălean Adina, Valet Matthieu, Van Brempt Kathleen, Van Brug Anouk, van den Berg Brigitte, Vandendriessche Tom, Van Dijck Kris, Van Lanschot Reinier, Van Leeuwen Jessika, Vannacci Roberto, Van Overtveldt Johan, Van Sparrentak Kim, Varaut Alexandre, Vasconcelos Ana, Vasile-Voiculescu Vlad, Vautmans Hilde, Vedrenne Marie-Pierre, Verheyen Sabine, Verougstraete Yvan, Veryga Aurelijus, Vešligaj Marko, Vicsek Annamária, Vieira Catarina, Vigenin Kristian, Vilimsky Harald, Vincze Loránt, Vind Marianne, Vistisen Anders, Vivaldini Mariateresa, Volgin Petar, von der Schulenburg Michael, Vondra Alexandr, Voss Axel, Vozemberg-Vrionidi Elissavet, Vrecionová Veronika, Vázquez Lázara Adrián, Waitz Thomas, Walsh Maria, Walsmann Marion, Warborn Jörgen, Warnke Jan-Peter, Wąsik Maciej, Wawrykiewicz Michał, Wcisło Marta, Wechsler Andrea, Weimers Charlie, Werbrouck Séverine, Wiesner Emma, Wiezik Michal, Wilmès Sophie, Winkler Iuliu, Winzig Angelika, Wiseler-Lima Isabel, Wiśniewska Jadwiga, Wölken Tiemo, Wolters Lara, Yar Lucia, Yon-Courtin Stéphanie, Yoncheva Elena, Zacharia Maria, Zalewska Anna, Žalimas Dainius, Zarzalejos Javier, Zdechovský Tomáš, Zdrojewski Bogdan Andrzej, Zijlstra Auke, Zīle Roberts, Zingaretti Nicola, Złotowski Kosma, Zoido Álvarez Juan Ignacio, Zovko Željana, Zver Milan |
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MEMBERS VOTING IN THE SECRET BALLOT ECR: ESN: NI: PPE: PfE: Renew: S&D: The Left: Verts/ALE: |
Source: European Parliament
In line with the communication on the road to the next multiannual financial framework (MFF)[1], the Commission will ensure that the upcoming MFF is simpler, more focused and aligned with EU priorities.
The communication highlights the importance of food security and nature protection for sustaining Europe’s quality of life and emphasises that a Common Agricultural Policy that is fit for purpose must provide targeted support to farmers who need it most, promote positive environmental and social outcomes through rewards and incentives for ecosystem services and support the right enabling conditions for thriving rural areas.
It must find the right balance between incentives, investment and regulation, and ensure that farmers have a fair and sufficient income.
The Commission is currently working on the next MFF and it intends to present the next financial framework in July 2025. Effective design of the next MFF requires involving various stakeholders.
The Commission’s approach involves structured dialogues, thematic public consultations, and active citizen engagement, all aimed at gathering diverse inputs early in the process. This ensures that funding is tailored to regional conditions and sectoral needs.
The Vision for Agriculture and Food[2] also provides a long-term policy perspective on EU agriculture and food, which will guide the design of the future Common Agricultural Policy.
Source: European Parliament
Imports of organic sugar from Brazil must be certified by control bodies recognised by the Commission in accordance with Article 46(1) of Regulation (EU) 2018/848[1] as competent to carry out controls and to issue organic certificates in compliance with the EU’s organic legislation.
The list of food additives authorised in organics is established in Regulation (EU) 2021/1165[2]. The food additives authorised are the same for producers in the EU including Guadeloupe and for organic producers in Brazil who wish to export to the EU.
In accordance with Article 45(2) of Regulation (EU) 2018/848 the Commission may grant specific authorisations for the use of products and substances in third countries and in the outermost regions of the EU. The procedure to request an authorisation is established in Article 10 of Regulation (EU) 2021/1165.
A consultation[3] has recently been carried out on a proposed amendment of that regulation to provide, inter alia, a dedicated procedure for the outermost regions of the EU to make such requests.
On financing, the Common Agricultural Policy’s POSEI scheme (Programme d’Options Spécifiques à l’Eloignement et l’Insularité), with its high level of support and degree of subsidiarity, efficiently helps to strengthen local production.
In 2024, the French POSEI allocated EUR 74.86 million to the cane-sugar-rum measure. Finally, in line with Article 349 of the Treaty[4] and with its 2022 Communication[5] on the strategy for the outermost regions, the Commission continues to take into account the outermost regions’ sensitive products in negotiating free trade agreements (FTA), assessing their effect and taking measures in the event of potential negative impacts, including safeguard clauses.
Source: European Parliament
The Joint Communication[1] remains valid in the areas that it covers. Its implementation continues to deliver on its goals and objectives.
While climate change remains the most comprehensive threat to the Arctic, the overall security and geopolitical context has changed significantly as a consequence of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
In this context, the question of an updated EU Arctic policy becomes relevant. However, such a decision would require careful reflection and any potential process to review and update the Arctic Joint Communication in the future will take time[2]. The question of further enhancing the EU’s presence is relevant.
The EU is a major player in areas such as Arctic sustainable fisheries[3], environmental protection, sustainable blue economy development, science and research, and regional development in the European Arctic.
Since 2021, the EU has been increasing its presence in other areas, including municipal cooperation, and support to Indigenous peoples and the youth[4].
In relation to Greenland, the EU operates long-standing relations with Greenland based on its status as an Overseas Country/Territory[5]. The Commission opened an office in Nuuk in 2024.
In areas such as hybrid threats, critical infrastructures and demographic trends affecting also Arctic regions, the EU’s actions are anchored in competences and policies set out in the Treaties.
EU relations with Norway, Iceland and Greenland are based on existing agreements and arrangements[6]. Changes to those agreements and arrangements will require decisions in each country in line with their national rules and procedures.
Source: European Parliament
In April 2024, the European Council reiterated the particular importance the EU gives to resumption of and progress in the Cyprus settlement talks in further enhancing EU-Türkiye cooperation[1]. This emphasises that the topic is a priority on the European agenda.
In line with this political guidance, EU officials regularly raise this topic in their meetings with Turkish counterparts, at all levels. This meeting was thus not an exception.
The High Representative/Vice-President will continue to reiterate the need for a constructive Turkish engagement on the Cyprus issue in all her future meetings with the Turkish Foreign Minister.
The EU is fully committed to a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem, within the United Nations (UN) agreed framework, in accordance with all relevant UN Security Council resolutions and in line with the principles on which the EU is founded and the acquis.
It remains crucial that Türkiye commits and actively contributes to such a peaceful settlement, including its external aspects.
Welcoming the recent steps taken by the UN Secretary-General towards a resumption of settlement talks, the EU remains ready to play an active role in supporting all stages of the UN-led process, with all appropriate means at its disposal[2].
Source: European Parliament
The Committee on Constitutional Affairs will hold a hearing aiming to identify the constitutional hurdles Member States came across on the reforms of European electoral law and to find possible solutions.
The hearing is linked to the ongoing work on an implementation report: “Reform of the European electoral law – ratification and implementation hurdles in the Member States” aimed at investigating the ratification process in Member States and on the legislative file “Reform of the electoral law of the European Union” which is currently pending in the Council.
Source: European Parliament
The EU is one of the main supporters of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).
The European Council condemned any attempt to repeal the 1967 agreement between Israel and UNRWA and to attempt to obstruct its capacity to operate its mandate[1].
It is of utmost importance to counter the disinformation campaign aimed at UNRWA. For this reason, the European External Action Service monitors and documents the campaign closely, within the mandate ‘to counter and expose disinformation in countries neighbouring the Union’ outlined in the 2018 Action Plan for Disinformation[2].
The EU and its Member States also continue to reach out to the Israeli authorities, and to highlight concerns through diplomatic outreach and public statements.
The European Council, on 21 March[3], 27 June[4], 17 October[5] and 19 December 2024[6] has consistently reiterated that the services provided by UNRWA are essential.
The High Representative/Vice-President discussed ways of supporting UNRWA with foreign ministers at the Foreign Affairs Council.
The EU will continue to provide both political and financial support to UNRWA. In 2024, the EU provided EUR 92 million in support to UNRWA. This came in addition to the EUR 48.5 million of EU humanitarian funding in 2024.
Source: European Parliament
The EU is by far the most important economic partner of the United States (US). While the EU has different protective measures at its disposal to ensure its economic and commercial interests are respected[1], the EU-US relationship is balanced. No one is taking advantage of each other, but rather having a shared interest in nurturing and further developing the relationship.
The EU is open and pragmatic and ready to think big on how trade and investment opportunities can be increased between the two and how the EU and US can work together on shared challenges, like economic security and non-market policies and practices.
The EU reiterates that the sovereignty of states must be respected. The EU has committed to a mutually beneficial partnership with Greenland.
The partnership supports Greenland in the pursuit of its own objectives in terms of growth, security and connectivity and the EU will continue to invest in Greenland and into this value-based partnership.
In close collaboration with Denmark, the EU stands with Greenland in upholding Greenland’s right to self-determination. The EU remains ready to work further with the US and other allies, and in close collaboration with Denmark, on security in the Arctic region including in Greenland.
The Transatlantic relationship is founded on a shared history and strong bonds. For decades, this partnership has been a cornerstone of peace, security, and economic growth. The EU is ready to deepen and strengthen this relationship, discuss shared interests and address global challenges together.
Source: European Parliament
In line with the EU action plan against trafficking in cultural goods[1] the Commissions supports Member States in tackling cultural goods theft.
1. The EU Agency for Criminal Justice Cooperation[2] supports the setup of joint investigation teams for cross-border investigations into cultural goods trafficking. Romania and the Netherlands have set up a joint investigation team regarding the theft from the Drents Museum[3]. The EU Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation[4] has a special point of contact for cultural goods trafficking. U nder the EU-funded European Multidisciplinary Platform Against Criminal Threats[5], there are dedicated operational actions against cultural goods trafficking.
2. Beyond these operational actions, the Commission continues implementing the EU action plan. The EU is funding projects[6] that address the challenging issue of cultural goods trafficking. Measures include law enforcement capacity building, tools to detect trafficked items and monitor online marketplaces, protection of cultural heritage sites by drones or satellite imagery, supporting practitioners’ networks and awareness raising.
The Commission has also launched a project with the International Council of Museums[7], including support to a selected number of museums.
The Commission furthermore is conducting a study on improving traceability of cultural goods in the EU, to provide recommendations to Member States on setting up stolen cultural goods databases.
Source: European Parliament
Algeria plays a key role as a country of origin, transit, and destination of migration. Algeria is an important destination for sub-Saharan migrants, with some settling and others transiting.
The EU’s financial support for programmes covering Algeria is primarily channelled through international partners rather than directly to the Algerian government.
The EU continues to advocate for stronger cooperation on migration issues, including on effective readmission of Algerian nationals to all EU Member States, as well as broader migration and security matters.
To address migratory pressures on the EU, the Commission is committed to deepening cooperation in a comprehensive way with Algeria through political dialogue and development cooperation.
This includes reinforcing existing support for the voluntary return of sub-Saharan migrants from Algeria to their countries of origin, as well as further engaging Algeria on migration and security, such as border management, anti-smuggling and the readmission of Algerian nationals from the EU.
Source: European Commission – Justice
European Commission Speech Warsaw, 02 Apr 2025 Solidarity is our most important value, the foundation of the European Union. There’s no better place to speak about solidarity than Poland, the birthplace of solidarity – Solidarność. I am old enough to remember when it started. When Solidarność started, it was the beginning of the end of communism and the Soviet Union. Our defence is based on solidarity and on the principle of collective defence: If one country does not invest in their own defence, it weakens all others in their defence.
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001194/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Nikolaos Anadiotis (NI)
The new Directive (EU) 2024/2853[1], which must be implemented by 9 December 2026, broadens the definition of ‘products’ to include software, digital files, raw materials, electricity and artificial intelligence. Companies can now be held liable for the malfunction and failure of these products, with, for example, compensation claims possible for personal injury, damage to property, loss of data or personal data breaches. Liability extends to manufacturers, importers, distributors and agents, i.e. everyone in the supply chain.
The directive includes provisions that shift both the obligation to comply and the burden of proof to producers, especially for complex products. The changes are expected to increase the cost of compliance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly in countries such as Greece, where there are many such businesses and they continue to face economic challenges. It should be noted that in Greece there are 73 SMEs per 1 000 inhabitants i.e. 82 % more than the European average, which is 40[2].
In light of the above:
What specific measures does the Commission intend to take to help SMEs, particularly in Greece, to adapt to these regulatory changes without undermining their competitiveness and economic recovery?
Submitted: 20.3.2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001216/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Valentina Palmisano (The Left)
The Commission has launched the Clean Industry Pact and the Steel Action Plan.
One of the only steelworks in the EU which uses coal to produce steel, the Taranto-based Acciaierie d’Italia (formerly ILVA) needs a yearly output of at least 6 million tonnes in order to turn a profit. However, the health impact assessment for these production levels was negative because operations would exceed the health risk threshold.
While production has plateaued at 2 million tonnes, 4 000 of the steelworks’ 12 000 employees have been temporarily laid off. The only way to safely ramp up production levels would be decarbonise the plant, but this process would, according to independent scientific studies, only be completed between 2040 and 2050 at the earliest.
In the light of the above:
Submitted: 21.3.2025
Source: European Parliament 3
MEPs adopted their priorities for the 2026 EU budget on Wednesday, emphasising defence, prosperity and sustainability.
MEPs endorsed Parliament’s guidelines for the 2026 EU budget by 441 votes in favour, 173 against, and with 70 abstentions, saying that next year’s budget should focus on strategic preparedness and security, economic competitiveness and resilience, sustainability, climate, and the single market. They want to see additional investment in research, innovation, enterprises, health, energy, migration, border protection, digital and green transitions, job creation and opportunities for young people.
In the adopted text, MEPs call for improved EU security, cybersecurity and defence capabilities, and funding for dual-use transport infrastructure. They demand proper support for farmers and also stress the importance of implementing the Asylum and Migration Pact. The text states that the EU’s economic resilience and sustainability depends on boosting public and private investment, increasing innovation, closing the skills gap and stepping up industrial production in Europe.
Health, Ukraine and debt repayment
Among other investment priorities, the guidelines call for continued support for health programmes and crisis preparedness, educational and cultural programmes to empower young people, and proper use of EU funds while upholding the rule of law.
MEPs also underline the need for sufficient resources given the sudden drop in international funding, and pledge unconditional and full support for Ukraine. They are concerned that repayment of the borrowing costs of the NextGenerationEU recovery plan must not lead to a reduction in EU programmes and funds.
Finally, while the 2026 budget has limited flexibility, as it is second to last in the 2021-2027 long-term EU budget, MEPs argue that, amid significant geopolitical changes and the worsening effects of climate change, the EU budget remains crucial in ensuring stability for Europeans, supporting established policies and providing for strategic priorities such as defence and security.
More details in this press release.
Quote
“After tough negotiations between our political groups, we have produced well-balanced guidelines that respect the values and ideals of all the groups. Our compromise underlines key priorities, including defence, security, energy, competitiveness, agriculture, economic resilience, crisis response, health, democracy, and a stronger Union in a changing world. We have delivered a strong position, showing the Commission and the Council that Parliament is a serious player, fully prepared to defend the priorities of our citizens,” said rapporteur Andrzej Halicki (EPP, PL).
Next steps
The Commission is expected to present its proposal for next year’s budget in June 2025. Parliament’s negotiators will use the guidelines as the basis for their discussions with the Council and the Commission. The budget needs to be agreed between the Council and the Parliament by the end of this year.
Background
The annual budget lays down all the EU’s expenditure and revenue for one year within the limits fixed by its seven-year budget. The budget guidelines set out what Parliament expects the Commission to take into account when drawing up its budget proposal.
Source: Scotland – Highland Council
A key infrastructure project supported by The Highland Council’s Community Regeneration Fund has been completed in Uig on the Isle of Skye.
The Uig Footbridge at River Rha has been replaced after reaching the end of its lifecycle and was officially reopened on Saturday 29 March by Chair of Skye and Raasay Area Committee, Cllr John Finlayson.
Skye and Raasay Area Committee Chair, Cllr John Finlayson said: “I am delighted to see the new Uig Footbridge open after £40,000 of funding from the Community Regeneration Fund was approved by the Committee in November 2024. The previous bridge had reached the end of its life, and I was happy to engage with the local community about how The Council could replace it, which we have done. The new footbridge has been constructed with steel and oak for durability and a long lifespan. These projects are key to not only improving vital infrastructure for local people but also supporting regeneration and empowering community resilience.”
The project was a collaboration between the Council’s project management team, Compass Building and Construction Services and engineering company, Fairhurst.
Community Regeneration Funding is an umbrella term for several funds that are available for communities and organisations to access in Highland. Area Committees are awarded devolved allocations according to approved formulae and decision making on which projects should receive funding sits with elected Members.
2 Apr 2025
Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –
Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –
The State University of Management invites students to take part in the new season of the creative video content competition “Battle of Creators”, which is being implemented with the support of the Presidential Fund for Cultural Initiatives.
The competition will give students interested in developing in the creative field the opportunity to gain significant professional experience and cash prizes for the videos they create. Student media centers will be able to improve their knowledge and receive cash prizes that will allow them to develop the association.
Anyone can take part. To do this, you need to register on the competition website and shoot a promotional video on a given topic.
After registration, video tutorials, participant chat and support from a team of professionals will become available.
The winners of the “Battle of Creators” will receive prizes and contracts with federal brands.
All details on the official website and in the Vkontakte community.
Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 04/02/2025
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: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
NEW YORK, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Marex Group plc (Nasdaq: MRX) (‘Marex’), the diversified global financial services platform, provides a Q1 trading update at its Investor Day, being held today at the Nasdaq Marketsite in New York City.
Marex reports a strong start to the year with positive momentum and supportive market conditions continuing through the first quarter of 2025. Client activity has remained strong across the platform with high levels of exchange volumes driven by volatility. Agency and Execution has benefited from strong performance in the Prime Services business and continued progress in the Energy business.
As a result, first quarter 2025 revenues are expected to be in a range of $449.3 to $464.3 million (Q1 2024: $365.8 million) and Adjusted Profit Before Tax2 in a range of $92.3 to $97.3 million (Q1 2024: $67.7 million).
Ian Lowitt, CEO, stated: “Very robust levels of client activity across our businesses and positive market conditions have continued into 2025 and led to a strong performance in the first quarter of the year, building on our performance in 2024. These benefits more than outweighed the impact of lower net interest income partly arising from the interest rate environment, compared to the fourth quarter of 2024. This demonstrates the successful execution of our strategy to diversify our business and deliver sustainable growth through a variety of market conditions by expanding our geographic footprint and product capabilities, increasing our relevance to a growing client base.”
Preliminary Q1 2025 results range
We have not yet completed our closing procedures for the three months ended March 31, 2025. The table below are certain estimated preliminary unaudited financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2025:
| 3 Months ended March 31, 20251 | 3 Months ended March 31, 2024 | |||
| Unaudited ($m) | Estimated Low | Estimated High | Actuals | |
| Revenue | 449.3 | 464.3 | 365.8 | |
| Reported Profit Before Tax | 94.4 | 102.1 | 58.9 | |
| Tax | 24.5 | 26.5 | 15.3 | |
| Reported Profit After Tax | 69.9 | 75.6 | 43.6 | |
| Adjusted Profit Before Tax2 | 92.3 | 97.3 | 67.7 | |
| Profit After Tax Margin | 16% | 16% | 12% | |
| Adjusted Profit Before Tax Margin2 | 21% | 21% | 19% | |
| Basic Earnings per Share ($)3 | 0.94 | 1.02 | 0.60 | |
| Diluted Earnings per Share ($)3 | 0.88 | 0.96 | 0.56 | |
| Adjusted Basic Earnings per Share ($)2,3 | 0.94 | 0.99 | 0.74 | |
| Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share ($)2,3 | 0.88 | 0.93 | 0.69 | |
Investor Day
Marex is hosting an Investor Day today, April 2, 2025 starting at 9:30am E.T. The event will feature presentations from Marex’s business heads, to provide a greater understanding of Marex’s operations and growth strategy, as well as a question and answer session with senior leadership including Ian Lowitt, CEO, Rob Irvin, CFO and Paolo Tonucci, Chief Strategist and CEO Capital Markets.
An audio livestream of the event will be available under the ‘events and presentations’ section on ir.marex.com. The webcast will also be available for replay, after the completion of the event.
https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/qbimzrae/
About Marex Group:
Marex Group plc (NASDAQ: MRX) is a diversified global financial services platform providing essential liquidity, market access and infrastructure services to clients across energy, commodities and financial markets. The Group provides comprehensive breadth and depth of coverage across four core services: Clearing, Agency and Execution, Market Making and Hedging and Investment Solutions. It has a leading franchise in many major metals, energy and agricultural products, with access to 60 exchanges. The Group provides access to the world’s major commodity markets, covering a broad range of clients that include some of the largest commodity producers, consumers and traders, banks, hedge funds and asset managers. Headquartered in London with more than 40 offices worldwide, the Group has over 2,300 employees across Europe, Asia and the Americas. For more information visit www.marex.com.
Enquiries please contact:
Marex
Investors – Robert Coates
+44 7880 486 329 / rcoates@marex.com
Media – Nicola Ratchford, Marex / FTI Consulting US / UK
+ 44 7786 548 889 / nratchford@marex.com / +1 919 609 9423 / +44 7776 111 222 | marex@fticonsulting.com
Forward Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements contained in this press release that do not relate to matters of historical fact should be considered forward-looking statements, including expected outlook regarding Q1 2025 financial results. In some cases, these forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to” or other similar expressions.
These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions, some of which are beyond our control. In addition, these forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to future events and are not a guarantee of future performance. Actual outcomes may differ materially from the information contained in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including, without limitation: subdued commodity market activity or pricing levels; the effects of geopolitical events, terrorism and wars, such as the effect of Russia’s military action in Ukraine or the on-going conflicts in the Middle East, on market volatility, global macroeconomic conditions and commodity prices; changes in interest rate levels; the risk of our clients and their related financial institutions defaulting on their obligations to us; regulatory, reputational and financial risks as a result of our international operations; software or systems failure, loss or disruption of data or data security failures; an inability to adequately hedge our positions and limitations on our ability to modify contracts and the contractual protections that may be available to us in OTC derivatives transactions; market volatility, reputational risk and regulatory uncertainty related to commodity markets, equities, fixed income, foreign exchange; the impact of climate change and the transition to a lower carbon economy on supply chains and the size of the market for certain of our energy products; the impact of changes in judgments, estimates and assumptions made by management in the application of our accounting policies on our reported financial condition and results of operations; lack of sufficient financial liquidity; if we fail to comply with applicable law and regulation, we may be subject to enforcement or other action, forced to cease providing certain services or obliged to change the scope or nature of our operations; significant costs, including adverse impacts on our business, financial condition and results of operations, and expenses associated with compliance with relevant regulations; and if we fail to remediate the material weaknesses we identified in our internal control over financial reporting or prevent material weaknesses in the future, the accuracy and timing of our financial statements may be impacted, which could result in material misstatements in our financial statements or failure to meet our reporting obligations and subject us to potential delisting, regulatory investments or civil or criminal sanctions, and other risks discussed under the caption “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2024 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and our other reports filed with the SEC.
The forward-looking statements made in this press release relate only to events or information as of the date on which the statements are made in this press release. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
In addition, statements that “we believe” and similar statements reflect our beliefs and opinions on the relevant subject. These statements are based upon information available to us as of the date of this press release, and while we believe such information forms a reasonable basis for such statements, such information may be limited or incomplete, and our statements should not be read to indicate that we have conducted an exhaustive inquiry into, or review of, all potentially available relevant information. These statements are inherently uncertain, and investors are cautioned not to unduly rely upon these statements.
Appendix 1
Non-IFRS Financial Measures and Key Performance Indicators
In addition to our results determined in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards (IFRS), we believe the following non-IFRS measures provide useful information both to management and investors in measuring our financial performance for the reasons outlined below. These measures may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other companies, and they should not be construed as an alternative to other financial measures determined in accordance with IFRS. The Group changed the labelling of its non-IFRS measures during 2024 to simplify the naming to better align to the equivalent IFRS reported metric for better understanding and communication and enhance transparency and comparability.
Adjusted Profit Before Tax (formerly labelled Adjusted Operating Profit)
We define Adjusted Profit Before Tax as profit after tax adjusted for (i) taxation charge (ii) acquisition costs, (iii) bargain purchase gains, (iv) owner fees, (v) amortisation of acquired brands and customer lists, (vi) activities in relation to shareholders, and (vii) IPO preparation costs. Items (i) to (vii) are referred to as “Adjusting Items.” Adjusted Profit Before Tax is an important measure used by our management to evaluate and understand our underlying operations and business trends, forecast future results and determine future capital investment allocations. Adjusted Profit Before Tax is the measure used by our executive board to assess the financial performance of our business in relation to our trading performance and hence it is our segments performance measure presented under IFRS Accounting Standards. Adjusted Profit Before Tax is also presented on a consolidated basis because our management believes it is important to consider our profitability on a basis consistent with that of our operating segments. When presented on a consolidated basis, Adjusted Profit Before Tax is a non-IFRS measure. The most directly comparable IFRS measure is profit after tax.
Adjusted Profit Before Tax Margin (formerly labelled Adjusted Operating Profit Margin)
We define Adjusted Profit Before Tax Margin as Adjusted Profit Before Tax (as defined above) divided by revenue. We believe that Adjusted Profit Before Tax Margin is a useful measure as it allows management to assess the profitability of our business in relation to revenue. The most directly comparable IFRS Accounting Standards measure is profit margin, which is profit after tax divided by revenue.
Adjusted Profit After Tax Attributable to Common Equity (formerly labelled Adjusted Operating Profit after Tax Attributable to Common Equity)
We define Adjusted Profit After Tax Attributable to Common Equity as profit after tax adjusted for the items outlined in the Adjusted Profit Before Tax paragraph above. Additionally, Adjusted Profit After Tax Attributable to Common Equity is also adjusted for (i) tax and the tax effect of the Adjusting Items to calculate Adjusted Profit Before Tax and (ii) profit attributable to AT1 note holders, which is the coupons on the AT1 issuance and accounted for as dividends adjusted for the tax benefit of the coupons. Common equity is a non-IFRS measure and we define Common Equity as being the equity belonging to the holders of the Group’s share capital.
Adjusted Basic Earnings per Share and Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share
Adjusted Basic Earnings per Share is defined as the Adjusted Profit After Tax Attributable to Common Equity for the period divided by weighted average number of ordinary shares for the period. We believe Adjusted Basic Earnings per Share is a useful measure as it allows management to assess the profitability of our business per share. The most directly comparable IFRS metric is basic earnings per share. This metric has been designed to highlight the Adjusted Profit After Tax Attributable to Common Equity over the available share capital of the Group. Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share is defined as the Adjusted Profit After Tax Attributable to Common Equity for the period divided by the diluted weighted average shares for the period. We believe Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share is a useful measure as it allows management to assess the profitability of our business per share on a diluted basis. Dilution is calculated in the same way as it has been for diluted earnings per share. The most directly comparable IFRS metric is diluted earnings per share.
Reconciliation
The following table reconciles: (1) Adjusted Profit Before Tax and Adjusted Profit after Tax Attributable to Common Equity from the most directly comparable IFRS Accounting Standards measure, which is profit after tax, (2) Adjusted Profit Before Tax Margin from the most directly comparable IFRS Accounting Standards measure, which is profit margin (which is profit after tax divided by revenue), (3) Adjusted Basic Earnings per Share from the most directly comparable IFRS measure, which is basic earnings per share, and (4) Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share from the most directly comparable IFRS measure, which is diluted earnings per share, in each case, for the periods presented below.
Reconciliation of Non-IFRS Financial Measures and Key Performance Indicators:
| 3 months ended March 31, 2025 | 3 months ended March 31, 2025 | 3 months ended March 31, 2024 | |||
| Estimated Low | Estimated High | Actuals | |||
| $m | $m | $m | |||
| Profit After Tax | 69.9 | 75.6 | 43.6 | ||
| Taxation charge | 24.5 | 26.5 | 15.3 | ||
| Profit Before Tax | 94.4 | 102.1 | 58.9 | ||
| Bargain purchase gains1 | (3.4) | (6.1) | — | ||
| Acquisition costs2 | — | — | 0.2 | ||
| Amortisation of acquired brands and customer lists3 | 1.3 | 1.3 | 0.8 | ||
| Activities relating to shareholders4 | — | — | 2.4 | ||
| Owner fees5 | — | — | 1.7 | ||
| IPO preparation costs6 | — | — | 3.7 | ||
| Adjusted Profit Before Tax | 92.3 | 97.3 | 67.7 | ||
| Tax and the tax effect on the Adjusting Items7 | (22.8) | (24.1) | (15.5) | ||
| Profit attributable to AT1 note holders8 | (3.3) | (3.3) | (3.3) | ||
| Adjusted Profit after Tax Attributable to Common Equity | 66.2 | 69.9 | 48.9 | ||
| Profit After Tax Margin | 16% | 16% | 12% | ||
| Adjusted Profit Before Tax Margin9 | 21% | 21% | 19% | ||
| Basic Earnings per Share ($)10 | 0.94 | 1.02 | 0.60 | ||
| Diluted Earnings per Share ($)11 | 0.88 | 0.96 | 0.56 | ||
| Adjusted Basic Earnings per Share($)10 | 0.94 | 0.99 | 0.74 | ||
| Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share ($)11 | 0.88 | 0.93 | 0.69 | ||
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
The guidance on remuneration for expert witnesses which sets out when to apply for prior authority has been updated
The update includes:
Clarification around the exceptional circumstances test and how the LAA determines whether this test is met.
Makes clear that it is not the intention of the LAA that Local Authorities, other than in unusual circumstances, should make up a shortfall in expert fees.
The LAA has been part of a judicial working group looking at improvements to the instruction of expert witnesses in family cases.
The revised guidance can be found here : Expert witnesses in legal aid cases – GOV.UK
Source: City of Westminster
Westminster City Council has approved more than £1.3 million for a new programme which will deliver improvements across Pimlico.
The new funding will be used to support and strengthen our local communities, as well as allowing us to develop long-term improvement plans for the area.
Headline announcements for the Pimlico Programme include:
Westminster City Council Cabinet Member Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development, Cllr Geoff Barraclough, said:
“We’re investing in high streets and local areas to become more sustainable, resilient and enrich the local community, which is part of our Fairer Westminster commitments.
“I’m really pleased the funding will be used to make Pimlico even more welcoming to residents, visitors and businesses and help community groups to continue to deliver their excellent and important services.”
Westminster City Council’s Pimlico Programme Lead Member, Cllr Jason Williams, said:
“We’ve worked with local people and community groups in Pimlico to find out about any issues they have and how we can tackle them through our improvement plan.
“We want to see Pimlico progress and improve outcomes and opportunities for local people by developing welcoming spaces, enhancing the appearance of Lupus Street the high street and supporting local organisations.”
Maggie Harper, Coordinator from Pimlico Toy Library, said:
“I am thrilled to see the approval of this local government fund, a testament to the open and proactive partnership between our Community and Westminster City Council. Through transparent communication and a shared vision, we’ve worked together to develop a program that will make a meaningful impact in Pimlico.
“I am excited to see the positive changes it will bring and look forward to continuing this strong collaboration.”
The Council carried out engagement with residents by hosting the Pimlico Community Conversations, which asked the local community how the Council can support improving and rejuvenating their local area.
From these conversations, the community’s highest priorities were:
Suggestions were also raised about a number of locations that could be improved – especially Lupus Street and the areas around Pimlico Station. The community asked for improvement to also include support for local businesses.
The £1.3 million fund is in addition to other ongoing investment across Pimlico which includes plans for a new Community Hub on Rampayne Street, the Warwick Way Highways Scheme, improvements to Pimlico Gardens and increased CCTV for the area.
Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent
Published: Wednesday, 2nd April 2025
Caudwell Children’s Colour Runner event is coming to Hanley Park this year as part of Stoke-on-Trent’s centenary celebrations.
The 5km charity fun run will see participants covered in environmentally-friendly paints at special “paint stations” along the route.
The event – developed as a fundraiser in support of Caudwell Children – encourages families and individuals of all ages to come together, have fun and raise vital funds to support disabled and autistic children across the UK.
This year’s event, which also commemorates the 25th anniversary of the charity, will be held on 19th July and run from 10:30am-2pm.
The event is a non-competitive, fully accessible 5km, which is open to people of all ages and fitness levels. Participants can walk or run and wheelchair users will also be able to take part.
Kathryn Turner-Morgan, Challenges Manager at Caudwell Children, said “We’re thrilled to welcome back our Colour Runner as we celebrate 25 years of Caudwell Children and Stoke-on-Trent’s Centenary.
“Collaborating with Stoke-on-Trent City Council has been fantastic, and we’re determined to make this our biggest, most vibrant event yet.
“We encourage as many individuals, schools, and local businesses as possible to get involved to help us change disabled and autistic children’s lives. With a fully accessible route, it’s a challenge the whole family can enjoy.”
Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “I am thrilled that we are working in partnership with Caudwell Children and adding the Colour Runner to our stacked centenary programme.
“Caudwell Children carry out amazing, important work that has supported SEND children for 25 years. This event is a great opportunity to raise money for a worthwhile cause, whilst also having fun and celebrating 100 years of Stoke-on-Trent.
“The course is for all ages and abilities, so I encourage everyone to register for the event. It promises to be a fun day out that everyone can enjoy.”
For more information and to register for the event, visit the Caudwell Children website: https://www.caudwellchildren.com/our-challenges/colour-runner-2025/
Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh
Planting, seed sowing and lots of helpful advice were on offer at the first monthly No Dig workshop held at the Kinnego Bushcraft Community Garden in Oxford Island last week.
The Bushcraft Team in ABC Council are hosting weekly sessions on Thursday evenings from 6pm to 8.30pm, starting from Thursday 6 March, while on the last Thursday of each month, council staff join with Natural World Products to deliver a series of No Dig workshops.
No-dig gardening cares for soil by cutting out the need for cultivation which damages soil structure and disrupts the natural processes which makes no-dig a better choice for soil health.
Natural World Products process the organic waste from brown bins collected in the ABC Borough and produce peat free composts one of which ‘New Leaf Compost’ is being used at the Kinnego Community Garden.
The Community Garden offers a wide range of benefits including shared beds to plant crops; supportive, friendly community of gardeners; and a share of the seasonal harvest.
Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a complete novice, the workshops will cover a wide range of topics with helpful advice on; No Dig practices; crop planning; composting; pest control; backyard gardening; chemical free fruit and veggie growing; seed sowing and transplanting.
Contact Sandra or Wayne by email at
*protected email*
to register up for the workshops, or to find out more information.
Keep an eye on the ‘Oxford Island’ and ‘getactiveabc’ Facebook pages for details on the events at the Kinnego Bushcraft Community Garden throughout the year.
Craigavon Building Sustainable Communities Project at Bushcraft is funded by Department of Communities.
Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh
Writing in today’s Evening News, Transport and Environment Convener Stephen Jenkinson looks ahead to another busy Transport and Environment Committee meeting tomorrow.
In my time as an elected member the concern which comes up time and again in my conversations with residents is our roads. We’ve been told in no uncertain terms that the people of Edinburgh want continued work and investment in our network and that’s what I’m committed to delivering. Road safety also goes hand in hand with road condition and investment, better maintained roads equal safer roads.
We have two important reports to consider at Committee which address these key issues. Our Road Safety Delivery Plan combined with our Roads and Infrastructure Investment -Capital Delivery Priorities will see over £30m invested across our city in the next financial year. These works cover everything from major projects like the Dalmahoy Junction, through to carriageway resurfacing and maintaining our pavements, speed reduction measures, accident and investigation prevention, safer travel around our schools and much more.
For roads, pavement and paths improvements, this is an area we’ve committed extra funding to in successive budgets, with £11m in 2023/24, £12.5m in 2024/25 and £12.5m this year. As a result, last year, we saw a record 460,000m² of carriageways receiving treatment and I’m hopeful we’ll see similar results this year. We’ll also be looking to build on our promising Road Condition Indicator (RCI) score, which saw a record positive shift last year.
This is far from the only area we are making significant investments. In February I was lucky enough to visit Bankhead Depot to meet colleagues and see our new fleet of Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGV) with enhanced safety features. We’ve invested over £25m in these HGVs along with our welfare buses for pupils with Additional Support Needs (ASN) and I’m confident that we now have the most advanced local authority fleet in Scotland when it comes to safety features. Our residents can take comfort in the fact that safety is at the heart of delivering our core services.
Another important project which we’ll hear about at Committee is the King’s Theatre Public Realm Improvements which intersects with the Meadows to Union Canal active travel project. Working collaboratively with the King’s Theatre refurbishment team, our aim is to incorporate a new walking, wheeling and cycling route that aligns with existing plans that were in development to avoid the need for future works to be carried out. From enhancing accessibility through step free access, increasing pavement areas for those walking and wheeling, and introducing contraflow cycling arrangements, there are a host of positive proposals which have now been shared with Tollcross Community Council, ward councillors and other project stakeholders. This is an excellent example of working together with a large-scale development to create the best outcome for the people of our city.
Finally, there was some welcome news last week which saw the roads on North Bridge reopening slightly ahead of schedule, with footways to fully reopen later in the year. This temporary closure to northbound traffic was due to essential resurfacing works which began in February. We’re now getting towards the final phase of the project which is hugely promising for the city.
I’m aware there is much still to be done, however I’m confident that we’re on the right track for delivering the changes which our city deserves.
Source: City of Liverpool
Liverpool and Dublin have begun the process of reinvigorating their twinning agreement.
A sister city arrangement was signed back in 1997 as a mark of the long and shared history between the two.
Now, the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Emma Blain, has visited Liverpool to meet with her counterpart Cllr Richard Kemp, Council Leader, Cllr Liam Robinson, and Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, Steve Rotheram.
They have discussed mutually beneficial ways in which the two cities can work together in areas such as culture, tourism and the wider economy.
Councillor Robinson said: “Here in Liverpool, 75% of us have some form of Irish heritage, so it was brilliant to welcome the Lord Mayor of Dublin, so we could talk about how we reinvigorate our partnership.
“We have a great opportunity to work together post-Brexit, and focus on some of the economic links that we share as two cities and how we can strengthen that over the years ahead.”
Lord Mayor Blain said: “It is my immense pride and pleasure to visit the city of Liverpool to reactivate the twinning agreement between Dublin and Liverpool.
“Our two cities have long shared a much cherished connection and I hope that this visit will help strengthen those bonds.
“Dublin and Liverpool have strong historic cultural, social and economic connections which extend across all aspects of Liverpool’s renowned reputation for music and arts, commerce and industry, sport and education.
“I am looking forward to visiting the University of Liverpool Materials Innovation Factory and Institute of Irish Studies as part of my visit, and wish to thank them for hosting us.
“Like many Dubliners, I have a family connection to the City of Liverpool, it is a place I have visited many times and am always struck by the warmth and welcoming of the people. I hope that my visit will be seen as a reciprocation of this warmth and welcoming from the people of Dublin.
“My sincere thanks to The Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Richard Kemp CBE, and to the Leader of Liverpool City Council, Liam Robinson, for their gracious invitation and their eagerness to develop this connection even further.”
Source: City of Liverpool
A knife and one hundred illegal vapes have been discovered during a Community Impact Day in Anfield.
The Council’s Private Sector Housing Team organised the event on Thursday 27 March, with participants including a range of the local authority’s departments as well as Liverpool Streetscene Ltd, Merseyside Police, Your Housing Group, Riverside Housing and the Breckfield Centre.
Outcomes from the day included:
Evidence from the ongoing cases was referred to the relevant services for investigation, and partners will continue to monitor the issues raised.
To report poor property conditions or anti-social behaviour from a rental property, email privatesector.housing@liverpool.gov.uk or report it online.
For advice and to hear how to report anti-social behaviour, click here.
To report fly-tipping, click here.
Councillor Laura Robertson-Collins, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said: “This is all part of our neighbourhood approach to identifying issues of concern to local residents and taking positive action to tackle them.
“By bringing together a range of different organisations we can maximise the impact and involve the relevant partner in making life better for locals.”
Anfield Councillor, Billy Marrat, said: “This proved a very productive day in making this area safer and stronger for residents.
“Some residents have been living in fear & it is our job to act against irresponsible tenants and residents to make these areas a lot better for all.”
Chief Inspector Sarah Rotherham from Merseyside Police said: “I am proud to report the success of our recent community impact day on 27th March.
“This joined up approach resulted in significant outcomes including the recovery of a dangerous bladed article and the seizure of 100 illicit vapes in Anfield.
“Our dedicated partnership approach worked tirelessly to address anti-social behaviour, improve property conditions, and tackle fly-tipping.
“This initiative not only enhances community safety but also demonstrates our unwavering commitment to supporting residents and maintaining a safer, cleaner environment for all.”
Source: City of Liverpool
Over 30,000 illicit goods have been removed from a wholesaler in Liverpool City Council’s biggest seizure of a single premises to date.
Working with Merseyside Police, the Council’s Public Protection team recovered 7,700 vapes and 23,400 cigarettes from a property in Old Swan, worth £105,000.
An inspection by the teams found that the goods, due to be sold to local businesses in the area, were unregulated and could be dangerous to consumers.
The premises was issued a warning and could face closure if there is any further criminal activity.
Unregulated vapes and cigarettes could contain banned ingredients and may pose a serious health risk to anyone using them.
Rules around the sale of vapes are set out in the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations 2016.
The requirements restrict e-cigarette tanks to a capacity of no more than 2ml, around 600 puffs, while the maximum volume of nicotine-containing e-liquid for sale in one refill container is restricted to 10ml.
Additionally, e-liquids are restricted to a nicotine strength of no more than 20mg/ml.
Previously, the largest seizure of illicit goods from a single property saw over 4,600 illicit vapes taken from a store in L8.
In 2024, the Council removed over 135,000 illegal cigarettes and vapes from sale across Liverpool. Any vapes seized by the team are sent to be recycled by a Manchester based contractor that has been authorised by Trading Standards North West.
Councillor Harry Doyle, Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture said: “Thanks to the team’s quick actions based on intelligence they received, they managed to take thousands of potentially dangerous goods off the market before they could be sold to the public.
“While genuine vaping products can be a helpful alternative to smoking, they should always be sourced from reputable retailers.
“Regulations around vapes and cigarettes exist for a reason. Illicit products could contain ingredients that are harmful to people’s health, which is why removing them from the market is a priority.”
Merseyside Police Local Policing Constable Graeme Brannagan said: “We’re pleased to have worked alongside Liverpool City Council in this significant seizure, which makes our communities a great deal safer.
“Anyone with information about suspected illegal goods is urged to contact us through 101, online or through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 and, working in partnership, we will keep taking action.”
Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –
Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
With the support of RN-Uvatneftegaz (part of the Rosneft oil production complex), a new multifunctional educational space was created in the Tyumen Technopark. The project was implemented within the framework of an agreement between Rosneft and the Government of the Tyumen Region.
Rosneft actively supports social initiatives aimed at creating favorable living conditions in the regions where it operates. The company pays great attention to educational and cultural initiatives.
During the project, a 300 sq. m. space was reconstructed, ventilation and communications systems were installed, and the space was equipped with furniture and equipment. Modern digital equipment and high-resolution video panels make it possible to create new educational programs, develop innovative technologies, and exchange experiences.
The coworking plan includes organizing trainings, seminars and master classes for schoolchildren and students, young scientists, and technology entrepreneurs. The training events are aimed at developing project management skills, system analysis and effective communications.
On the opening day, specialists from the Rosneft scientific center in Tyumen held competitions for schoolchildren of specialized classes in the design and construction of a horizontal well. The future oil workers were faced with the task of “building” a well within the geological section and demonstrating the most effective opening of an imaginary productive formation and the accuracy of drilling.
The new space will facilitate the implementation of the Tyumen Technopark’s tasks to develop new technologies and promote high-tech products in such industries as oil and gas production and processing, ecology and rational use of natural resources, and information technology. The coworking area will complement the main divisions of the technopark – a business incubator, a regional engineering center, a prototyping center, and a programming school.
Reference:
RN-Uvatneftegaz is engaged in exploration and development of a group of fields located in the Uvatsky District of the Tyumen Region and the Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Okrug-Yugra. The Uvatsky project includes 19 licensed areas with a total area of over 25 thousand square kilometers. The company provides about 80% of the total volume of oil produced in the region.
Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft April 02, 2025
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.
Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –
Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –
The State University of Management has become the winner of a grant from the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation for universities to create modern educational laboratories for the aircraft manufacturing, shipbuilding and innovative transport industries.
The modern laboratory for the aircraft construction and innovative transport industry, created on the basis of the State University of Management, in terms of automated development of control programs and studying the basics of working on the CNC system (numerical program control) for machines of various technological groups, will become an important element of the university infrastructure. The laboratory will facilitate the integration of practical activities into the educational process, and in the future – the creation of mechanisms for opening scientific and production associations with partners of the real sector of the economy in the direction of more active cooperation with them and solving applied problems.
The key goal of the created Laboratory of CNC Control is to improve the engineering skills of young people, to involve students in solving practical problems and challenges of Russian industry and engineering science in the field of innovative technologies.
The development strategy of the State University of Management involves building up competencies and scientific and technical groundwork in the field of managing the technological process of manufacturing high-tech products to form basic technical training for university graduates. The laboratory will become a practical basis for implementing academic disciplines and additional professional education as part of developing international cooperation in programs for training senior and middle management personnel to work with high-tech CNC equipment in the field of intelligent manufacturing.
Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 04/02/2025
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: Republic of China Taiwan
MOFA response to Belgian Foreign Ministry’s 2025 policy statement and Foreign Minister Prévot expressing concern over cross-strait developments
Date：2025-03-30
Data Source：Department of European Affairs
March 30, 2025
The Belgian Foreign Ministry in March submitted a 2025 policy statement to the Chamber of Representatives. The statement reaffirmed its support for the EU Strategy for Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific policy report, issued by the European Union in 2021, and called for the maintenance of harmony and stability in the Indo-Pacific. Referring to China’s escalating threats toward Taiwan in recent years, it pointed out that China had expanded military drills around Taiwan and continued to deliberately undermine social stability in Taiwan. The statement also emphasized that an invasion of Taiwan by China would have significant political and economic consequences for Europe. It urged all related parties to uphold the status quo across the Taiwan Strait and avoid taking any provocative actions that could trigger a conflict.
Furthermore, in response to questions on the policy statement raised by the Chamber of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee on March 26, Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot expressed concern over China’s recent escalation of military activities around the Taiwan Strait. He emphasized that Belgium should remain highly vigilant to developments in the region and do its utmost to uphold the status quo across the Taiwan Strait.
The 2025 policy statement issued by the Belgian Foreign Ministry marked another statement of significant concern regarding the cross-strait situation following the Belgian coalition government’s inclusion of Taiwan-friendly content in its coalition agreement in February. In addition, on March 20 the Belgian Chamber of Representatives adopted, by an overwhelming majority, a resolution expressing concern regarding the growing threat of China to Taiwan. This underscores the high level of consensus and support shared by the Belgian administration and parliament for ensuring the status quo of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs highly welcomes their support and looks forward to deepening bilateral exchanges and cooperation with Belgium so as to jointly safeguard the rules-based international order and advance peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.
Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE
Headline: ODIHR opens election observation mission in Albania
TIRANA, 2 April 2025 – The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) today opened an election observation mission for the 11 May parliamentary elections in Albania, following an official invitation from the national authorities.
The mission is headed by Ambassador Lamberto Zannier and consists of a core team of 12 international experts based in Tirana and 26 long-term observers, who will be deployed throughout the country from 10 April. ODIHR will also request 300 short-term observers, to arrive several days before election day.
The mission will assess the election for its compliance with OSCE commitments and other international obligations and standards for democratic elections, as well as with national legislation.
Observers will closely monitor all aspects of the election, including developments before and after election day. Specific areas of focus will include the implementation of the legal framework, the campaign, including on social networks, the work of the election administration at all levels, the resolution of election disputes, and media coverage. The observers will also assess the implementation of previous ODIHR election recommendations.
Meetings with representatives of state authorities, political parties, civil society, the media and the international community form an integral part of the observation.
On election day, the ODIHR mission will join efforts with delegations from the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe and the European Parliament to observe the opening of polling stations, voting, the counting of votes and the tabulation of results.
An interim report will be published some two weeks prior to the election, and the day after the election the mission’s preliminary findings and conclusions will be presented at a press conference. A final report with an assessment of the entire election process and containing recommendations will be published some months after the election.
Media contacts:
Katya Andrusz, ODIHR Spokesperson: katya.andrusz@odihr.pl or +48 609 522 266
Elma Šehalić, Media Analyst: elma.sehalic@odihr.al or +355 68 209 3931