The European Commission welcomes the provisional political agreement reached today between the European Parliament and the Council to reinforce Europol’s role and inter-agency cooperation in the fight against migrant smuggling and trafficking in human beings. This regulation was proposed by the Commission in November 2023. The fight against migrant smuggling is a Commission priority, as President von der […]
EU and Indonesia conclude negotiations on free trade agreement
Following the political agreement reached on 13 July by President von der Leyen and President Prabowo Subianto, today the EU and Indonesia finalised negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and an Investment Protection Agreement (IPA). On the EU side, negotiations were led by Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maroš Šefčovič. Currently in Indonesia, he is marking this […]
Parliament inaugurates permanent presence in Kyiv
Expressing Europe’s continued and unwavering support for Ukraine, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola officially opened the EP’s office in Kyiv. The decision to open an antenna office, co-located with the EU Delegation, in Kyiv sends a strong political signal to Ukrainian authorities and citizens, reaffirming the European Parliament’s solidarity and partnership. Addressing the Members of […]
New strategy to strengthen prosperity and security with India
The EU last September 17 proposed a new strategic agenda to take bilateral relations with India to the next level. The European Commission and the High Representative have adopted a joint Communication outlining a “New EU-India Strategic Agenda”, marking a significant milestone in relations between the two partners. This initiative, announced by President Ursula von […]
Citizens call for greater protection from the European Union
The latest Eurobarometer survey by the European Parliament highlights citizens’ high expectations of the EU and the EU budget beyond 2027. Against a backdrop of geopolitical uncertainty, most Europeans (68%) believe that the EU should play a greater role in protecting citizens from global crises and security risks. Ninety per cent of respondents want Member […]
The Commission proposes a free and secure data circulation zone between the EU and Brazil
Last September 5, the Commission has launched the process of adopting an adequacy decision on data protection with Brazil. The Commission has determined that Brazil ensures an adequate level of data protection, comparable to that of the EU. Once adopted, the Decision would allow for the free flow of data for businesses, public authorities […]
Stronger customs controls and cooperation on product compliance
A European Commission report about customs controls on product compliance at the EU’s external borders recognises the efforts of customs authorities while highlighting the need for improved customs controls and cooperation, in particular to deal with the rapid growth of e-commerce. Imported products, including those purchased online, unfortunately do not always comply with EU rules regarding safety, […]
Commission proposes partial suspension of Israel in Horizon Europe
Last 28 July, the European Commission proposed to partially suspend Israel’s participation to Horizon Europe. The suspension specifically concerns the participation of entities established in Israel in activities funded under the Accelerator of the European Innovation Council (EIC). This suspension comes as a reaction to the review Art. 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement. Respect […]
Volunteering – Become a Cross-Border Ambassador
The Cross-Border Ambassadors programme is seeking young people aged 18–30 who want to represent their border region, share their experiences, and work with European Commission officials and other Ambassadors. As part of the programme, you’ll help raise awareness about cross-border challenges and solutions, and play a role in shaping EU cross-border cooperation. What it is […]