Keir Starmer’s realignment with Europe will be a low-key one

SummaryOn Monday, Sir Keir Starmer aims to finalize a veterinary deal with the EU to simplify agrifood trade, which may require the UK to accept evolving EU rules without voting rights. While the deal is intended to cut costs for consumers and enhance UK-EU relations, it poses political risks for Starmer, as it involves giving up some sovereignty. The agreement will also include a youth mobility scheme and improved access for European students to UK...

Portugal's immigration policy is a central issue in the upcoming elections, with the centre-right government advocating for a "regulated and humane" approach to counter the populist Chega party's rise amid immigration concerns. Minister António Leitão Amaro criticized past Socialist policies for the immigration surge, while asserting that his coalition's measures aim to be firm yet humane, avoiding extreme right tactics. The government, facing a potential minority outcome, has responded to the influx from South Asia...

The US and EU have initiated crucial trade discussions to mitigate the impact of Donald Trump's tariffs, exchanging negotiating documents that cover tariffs, digital trade, and investment opportunities. EU trade officials, including Sabine Weyand and Maroš Šefčovič, are advocating for a cautious approach while addressing US demands, particularly concerning agricultural products and pharmaceutical regulations. Despite the EU's openness to reduce reliance on China, it firmly opposes US requests to alter VAT and digital regulations, with...

SummaryLeaders of Britain's fishing industry are urging Sir Keir Starmer to maintain a firm stance in negotiations with the EU over a new UK-EU pact, particularly concerning access arrangements for EU fishermen in British waters. As talks approach a crucial summit, Starmer seeks to establish a security and defense partnership while facing criticism from Conservatives for potentially conceding to EU demands. The EU ties a long-term fisheries deal to an agrifood trade agreement, which could...

The European Commission has begun to settle its antitrust investigation into Microsoft after the company proposed new concessions regarding its Teams and Office products, in response to a complaint from Slack. Microsoft has unbundled Teams from Office 365 in the EU and promised to maintain this separation for seven years while also enhancing interoperability with other products, such as adding a Zoom button in Outlook. The Commission will conduct a market test to assess the...

This article discusses critical developments in Europe, including potential shifts in the Ukraine war as delegations meet in Istanbul and the upcoming Romanian presidential run-off between centrist Nicuşor Dan and ultranationalist George Simion. The election is significant for Romania's geopolitical alignment, with Simion's rise causing market instability and concerns over EU relations, particularly given his connections with Hungary's Viktor Orbán. Additionally, the article covers ongoing US-EU tariff negotiations amidst the backdrop of NATO defense spending...