Last January 8, the EU and Jordan are marking a key milestone in their long-standing relationship with a first-ever bilateral Summit. The EU was represented by President von der Leyen and President Costa, and Jordan by His Majesty King Abdullah II. The leaders took stock of the implementation of the EU-Jordan Strategic and Comprehensive Partnership (SCP) […]
New measures to boost circular economy and strengthen Europe’s plastic recycling
The European Commission has unveiled a first set of pilot actions to accelerate Europe’s transition to a circular economy, with a particular focus on the plastics sector. By optimising the recycling of plastics, these measures will further unlock the potential of the Single Market and enhance the EU’s economic security, strategic autonomy, competitiveness and environmental sustainability. This […]
EU agriculture ministers meet to focus on securing EU food security and sovereignty
Last January 7, EU agricultural ministers met in an extraordinary meeting, on the invitation of the European Commission and Minister Maria Panayiotou for the Cypriot Presidency of the Council. The Commission was represented at this meeting by Commissioners Hansen, Šefčovič and Várhelyi. Recognising that agriculture is crucial for European sovereignty and that the EU agri-food sector is key […]
Commission registers European Citizens’ Initiative on ‘Ethics, Transparency and Integrity for European Political Parties’
Last January 5, the European Commission has registered a European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI), entitled ‘Ethics, Transparency and Integrity for European Political Parties’. The initiative invites the Commission to “devise a European model of ethical governance based on transparency, integrity and shared responsibility”. To this end, the organisers call for the Commission to “propose a legislative […]
EU stands in full solidarity with Switzerland and evacuates victims after Crans-Montana tragedy
EU reacts swiftly after the tragic fire in the bar during the New Year’s celebrations at the ski resort Crans-Montana, the Swiss canton Valais. In response to Switzerland´s request for emergency assistance through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, efforts are underway to evacuate severely injured patients for specialised treatment. To that end, experts, known as […]
Bulgaria have joined euro area from 1 January
On 1 January 2026, Bulgaria have adopted the euro as its currency, marking an important milestone for the country, for the history of the euro, and for the EU as a whole. This follows a period of intensive preparation and effort by Bulgaria to meet all the necessary requirements. The euro will deliver practical benefits […]
Spain and Portugal celebrate 40 years in the European Union
1 January 2026 marks the 40th anniversary of the accession of Spain and Portugal to the European Union. Both countries have enriched the EU culturally, politically and economically. Their accession has offered European citizens more trade and travel opportunities, reinforced solidarity between peoples and strengthened our Union internationally, boosting our links with partner countries in […]
Commission renews decisions to allow for the free and safe flow of personal data with the UK
Last December 19, the Commission renewed the two 2021 adequacy decisions for the free flow of personal data with the United Kingdom. The decisions ensure that personal data can continue flowing freely and safely between the European Economic Area (EEA) and the United Kingdom, as the UK legal framework contains data protection safeguards that are […]
Commission strengthens the Border Carbon Adjustment Mechanism
The Commission proposed measures to close loopholes to prevent circumvention and strengthen the effectiveness of the EU’s Carbon Financial Mechanism (CBM), in response to comments received from industry. From 1 January 2028, the scope of the CBFF will be extended to include certain steel- and aluminium-intensive downstream products. The Commission also proposes measures to close […]