Protecting Europeans: European Council of 22-23 June focuses on security and borders, defence, trade and economic development

At the meeting of the European Council of 22-23 June, EU leaders welcomed the encouraging return to economic growth to all 28 Member States, underlined the importance of the Union’s comprehensive strategy on migration and committed to stepping up work on defence and security. Speaking of the Commission’s concrete proposals on defence, President Juncker said at yesterday’s press conference: “The proposal to create a Defence Fund is necessary — because in Europe we have 178 types of weapon systems, whereas the U.S. have 30. […] there is room for improvement and that is exactly what we decided today.” Today, EU Heads of State or Government also discussed how to unlock the potential of the Single Market, as well as trade and industry, while ensuring that the benefits reach all parts of society. Speaking at today’s press conference, President Juncker underlined the improving economic situation in Europe: “We have good news. Unemployment is going down, employment is improving, growth is picking up, […] The fiscal deficit is decreasing: in 2011, we had 24 countries in the Excessive Deficit Procedure, we are left now with four countries. This is a tremendous achievement […]” President Juncker also called on Member States to step up their contributions to the EU-Africa Trust Fund and reiterated that trade needs to be free, but fair. President Juncker‘s remarks will be available online and a recording of both press conferences (yesterday and today) are available on EbS. Today, the Commission published first key findings of the Standard Eurobarometer Survey. These show that today, almost half of Europeans believe the economic situation is good in their country (while it was only 20% back in 2009) and that optimism is on the rise regarding the Future of the Union (56% say they are optimistic which is +6 percentage points up in the last 6 months). (For more information: Margaritis Schinas – Tel.: +32 229 60524; Mina Andreeva – Tel.: +32 229 91382, Natasha Bertaud – Tel.: +32 229 67456)

Commission to invest 2.7 billion Euro in transport sector

Today the European Commission is proposing to invest €2.7 billion in 152 key transport projects that support competitive, clean and connected mobility in Europe. In doing so, the Commission is delivering on its Investment Plan for Europe and on Europe’s connectivity including the recent “Europe on the Move” agenda. Selected projects will contribute to modernising rail lines, removing bottlenecks and improving cross-border connections, installing alternative fuel supply points, as well as implementing innovative traffic management solutions. Commissioner for Transport Violeta Bulc said: “The demand for investment in transport infrastructure is huge. This new wave of investment focuses on clean, innovative and digital projects to modernise Europe’s transport network. Today we are one step closer to a true Transport Union, serving the needs of citizens, stimulating the economy and creating jobs […].” This investment is made under the Connecting Europe Facility, the EU’s financial mechanism supporting infrastructure networks, and will unlock €4.7 billion of public and private co-financing. Under the Connecting Europe Facility, €23.2 billion is available from the EU’s 2014-2020 budget to co-fund trans-European transport network (TEN-T) projects in the EU Member States. A full press release in all languages, a Q&A and factsheets for each country are available online. (For more information: Enrico Brivio – Tel.: +32 229 56172; Nicole Bockstaller – Tel.: +32 229 52589)

Juncker Plan: EUR 110 million to upgrade research and development facilities in Spain

The Juncker Plan has backed a EUR 110 million European Investment Bank (EIB) loan agreement with Sener, a Spanish engineering company. The loan will facilitate major upgrades to Sener’s research and development facilities in Bilbao and Madrid. This will allow the company to continue to develop innovative engineering solutions across a broad range of sectors, including the design of satellite, navigation and space propulsion systems. This agreement was made possible by the support of the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI). The EFSI is the central pillar of the European Commission’s Investment Plan for Europe, the so-called “Juncker Plan”. European Commission Vice-President Jyrki Katainen, responsible for Jobs, Growth, Investment and Competitiveness, said: “Developing new technology in the space industry requires a commitment to sustained investment. The Commission’s Space Strategy underlines the importance of promoting more private investment in this sector to ensure that Europe will remain a leading player in this evolving, competitive market. Today’s agreement demonstrates that the European Fund for Strategic Investments can play an important role in supporting this effort.” As of June 2017, the Juncker Plan is now expected to trigger over EUR 28 billion in investments in Spain and EUR 209 billion across Europe. A full press release is available here. (For more information: Annika Breidthardt – Tel.: +32 229 56153; Enda McNamara – Tel.: +32 229 64976)

EU scales up its assistance against cholera outbreak in Yemen

The European Commission is scaling up its response to an unprecedented cholera outbreak in Yemen with an additional €5 million, bringing total EU support for efforts to tackle the disease to €8.8 million. “The cholera outbreak in Yemen continues to spread dramatically during the last weeks and warrants urgent action. The European Union is stepping up support to allow humanitarian partners to rapidly increase their capacity to treat people and save lives in Yemen. Crucially, humanitarian organisations must be allowed full access to do their life-saving job. While we do all we can to help those in need, only a political solution will bring this catastrophe to an end,” said Christos Stylianides, Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management. The EU aid will support the United Nations cholera response plan which includes health treatment of cholera cases and preventive measures providing safe water and improved sanitation in high priority areas. Overall Commission humanitarian funding for Yemen in 2017 stands at €121.7 million. A full press release is available here. (For more information: Carlos Martín Ruiz de Gordejuela – Tel.: + 32 229 65322; Daniel Puglisi – Tel.: +32 229 69140)

Rapport sur l’état des relations EU-Liban: renforcement de notre partenariat

Durant les deux dernières années, l’Union européenne et le Liban ont approfondi leur partenariat. Compte tenu des défis croissants auxquels le pays est confronté, notamment dus à la crise syrienne, l’UE a augmenté son soutien envers le Libanet a renforcé ses liens diplomatiques et la coopération dans les domaines tels que la sécurité, la bonne gouvernance et le commerce. Telles sont les conclusions du rapport conjoint publié aujourd’hui par le Service européen pour l’action extérieure et la Commission européenne sur le partenariat entre l’UE et le Liban pour la période de mars 2015 à avril 2017. Ce rapport s’inscrit dans la perspective du 8^ème Conseil d’association UE-Liban qui se tiendra le 18 juillet 2017 à Bruxelles. La Haute Représentante pour les affaires étrangères et la politique de sécurité/ Vice-Présidente de la Commission européenne Federica Mogherini a déclaré: «L’Union européenne et le Liban entretiennent des relations solides de longue date, fondées sur des travaux conjoints et une coopération étroite dans un large éventail de domaines. Nous œuvrons de concert en matière de sécurité, de contre-terrorisme et de crises régionales mais également de croissance et de création d’emplois, qui sont des questions essentielles pour les Libanais. […]» Le Commissaire pour la Politique européenne de Voisinage et les négociations d’élargissement Johannes Hahn a ajouté: «L’Union européenne soutient le Liban dans de nombreux domaines, aussi bien la sécurité que l’éducation ou la santé. Les fonds de l’UE, ainsi que les relations UE/Liban de manière plus générale, ont contribué au développement du pays, à améliorer ses infrastructures, à créer des opportunités pour le secteur privé et à soutenir des initiatives importantes au niveau local. […]» Le rapport est disponible ici et un communiqué de presse complet ici. De plus amples informations sur les relations UE-Liban ici. (Pour plus d’informations: Catherine Ray – Tel.: +32 229 69921; Maja Kocijancic – Tel.: +32 229 86570; Lauranne Devillé –Tel.: +32 229 80833; Alceo Smerilli – Tel.: +32 229 64887)

€50 million for social enterprises in Italy

The European Investment Fund (EIF) and Banca Popolare Etica (BPE) have signed the first Social Entrepreneurship guarantee agreement in Italy under the EU Programme for Employment and Social Innovation (EaSI). This new guarantee agreement allows Banca Popolare Etica to provide a total of €50 million to 330 social entrepreneurs over the next 5 years, to both Spanish and Italian businesses. Social enterprises including those employing people with disabilities, people who have been long-term unemployed, migrants and asylum seekers, will be able to benefit from loans at a reduced interest rate, with reduced collateral requirements, under the EU supported programme. Banca Popolare Etica will focus on a vast range of social enterprise sectors, targeting innovative socially oriented start-ups, social agri-businesses and companies active using energy efficiency and renewable energy technology. Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs, Skills and Labour Mobility, Marianne Thyssen, said: “With this new agreement, supported by EU funds, Banca Popolare Etica will be able to offer loans on preferential terms to over 330 social enterprises in Italy and will open up its lending activity towards social enterprises in Spain. By providing them a greater and easier access to finance, we contribute to the development of social enterprises in key areas for social inclusion, such as social agro-businesses and businesses contributing to the integration of migrants and refugees. We remain fully committed in combating social exclusion and improving working conditions in Europe.“ The European Investment Bank (EIB) Vice President, Ambroise Fayolle and the President of Banca Etica, Ugo Biggeri signed the agreement during the European Microfinance Network’s 14^th Annual Conference in Venice, which focussed this year on the power of financial education for vulnerable populations and which brought together over 300 micro and social finance providers and representatives from guarantee-granting institutions. (For more information:Christian Wigand– Tel.: +32 229 62253; Sara Soumillion – Tel.: + 32 229 67094)

 

State aid: Commission approves prolongation of the Croatian bank resolution scheme  

The European Commission has authorised under EU state aid rules the prolongation of the bank resolution scheme in Croatia. The scheme was initially approved in October 2016. The measure will continue to be available for small banks with total assets below €1.5 billion, only if they are found to be in distress by the competent national authorities. The objective of the scheme is to facilitate the work of the Croatian resolution authorities, should a concrete case and need arise for it. The Commission found the prolongation of the scheme to be in line with the state aid rules on banking applicable since 2013. The non-confidential version of the decision will be available under the case number SA.48287 in the State Aid Register on the DG Competition website once any confidentiality issues have been resolved. (For more information: Ricardo Cardoso – Tel.: +32 229 80100; Maria Sarantopoulou – Tel.: +32 229 13740)

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

7ème Forum sur la Cohésion: cap sur l’après 2020

Lundi et mardi aura lieu à Bruxelles le 7^ème Forum sur la Cohésion. Ce rendez-vous majeur, organisé tous les trois ans, réunira près de 700 acteurs de la politique de Cohésion, représentants des institutions européennes, des Etats membres, partenaires économiques et sociaux, universitaires et autorités régionales et locales. Tous se rencontreront pour débattre de la politique de Cohésion après 2020, alors que la préparation du futur cadre budgétaire est en cours, avec un document de réflexion de la Commission sur le futur des finances de l’UE prévu d’ici à la fin du mois. Le président de la Commission européenne, Jean-Claude Juncker, le président du Parlement européen, Antonio Tajani, et le Premier ministre maltais, Joseph Muscat, prendront chacun la parole pendant ces deux jours durant lesquels seront organisés de nombreux ateliers et conférences sur, notamment, la simplification des règles, les investissements de l’UE dans l’innovation, dans la réduction des disparités géographiques ou le soutien aux réformes structurelles. Le Vice-président de la Commission chargé de l’emploi, de la croissance, de l’investissement et de la compétitivité, Jyrki Katainen ouvrira ce Forum, qui sera clôturé par la Commissaire à la politique régionale Corina Crețu, et au cours duquel interviendront les Commissaires Günther H. Oettinger, Phil Hogan, Marianne Thyssen, Karmenu Vella et Pierre Moscovici. La Commissaire Crețu a déclaré: “Le Forum sur la Cohésion constitue une étape cruciale dans la préparation du cadre budgétaire post-2020. Il nous permettra de tester nos idées auprès des acteurs qui appliquent la politique de Cohésion sur le terrain. Et cela sera surtout l’occasion d’écouter leurs propositions pour façonner une politique de Cohésion qui sache répondre aux défis de la mondialisation et construire des économies robustes et résistantes. Je m’attends à deux jours de riches échanges, qui viendront nourrir notre réflexion.” Le programme complet du Forum est disponible ici. Toutes les sessions sont diffusées en direct ici et ouvertes à la presse. Un point presse avec la Commissaire Crețu, le Président du Comité des Régions Markku Markkula et la présidente du comité sur le Développement régional (REGI) du Parlement européen, Iskra Mihaylova, aura lieu lundi à midi, en salle Jenkins du bâtiment Charlemagne. (Informations et inscriptions: Johannes Bahrke – Tél.: +32 229 58615; Sophie Dupin de Saint-Cyr – Tél.: +32 229 56169)

 

Johannes Hahn visits the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia

Johannes Hahn, Commissioner for European Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations, will travel to Skopje on Monday 26 June to discuss the government’s reform plans and to reiterate the EU’s support as the country carries out the necessary reforms for it to become a Member of the European Union. The Commissioner will meet Prime Minister Zoran Zaev, the new government and country’s political leaders. Ahead of the visit, Commissioner Hahn said: “The country has finally overcome, with the continuous support of the European Union, its political crisis through well administered elections and the formation of a new government. Now the new government, together with the opposition, needs to focus on implementing Urgent Reform Priorities and the Pržino agreement in order to bring the country back on its EU integration path. Reforms must be done to improve the lives of the people, to work for stability, prosperity and justice. That is why I tasked a group of independent senior rule of law experts, led by Reinhard Priebe, to help and advise the new government on systemic rule of law issues“. Videos and photos of the visit will be available on EbS. (For more information: Maja Kocijancic – Tel.: +32 229 86570; Alceo Smerilli – Tel.: +32 229 64887)

Calendar

The Commissioners’ Weekly Activities

Upcoming events of the European Commission (ex-Top News)

(Susceptible de modifications en cours de semaine)

Déplacements et visites

 

Lundi 26 juin 2017

Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council

Mr Frans Timmermans receives Mr Werner Faymann, Special Envoy of the United Nations on Youth Employment and former Chancellor of Austria.

Ms Federica Mogherini receives Mr David Beasley, Executive Director of the World Food Programme.

Ms Federica Mogherini receives Ms Lotte Leicht, Director of Human Rights Watch’s Brussels Office.

Ms Federica Mogherini delivers a keynote speech at the Civil Society Days 2017, in Brussels.

Mr Andrus Ansip in London, the United Kingdom: delivers a keynote speech at Chatham House annual Cyber Conference: “Evolving norms, improving harmonisation and building resilience”; and participates at the dinner discussion on the Digital Single Market at “The Briefing Circle”.

Mr Maroš Šefčovič delivers a keynote speech at the 6th InnoGrid2020 Conference “A Network of Networks“, organised by ENTSO-E and EDSO for Smart Grids, in Brussels.

Mr Valdis Dombrovskis receives Mr Pierre Bollon, Director-General of the French asset management association (AFG); and Mr Philippe Setbon, CEO of Groupama Asset Management.  

Mr Valdis Dombrovskis receives Mr Martin J. Gruenberg, Chairman of the US Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).

Mr Valdis Dombrovskis receives Mr Ingo Kramer, President of the Confederation of German Employers’ Associations (BDA).

Mr Valdis Dombrovskis receives Ms Lolita Čigāne, Chairperson of the European Affairs Committee of the Saeima.

Mr Valdis Dombrovskis and Mr Phil Hogan address the 25th Summit of Chairmen of EPP Parliamentary Groups in the National Parliaments of the EU and the European Parliament, in Brussels.

Mr Jyrki Katainen receives Mr Vazil Hudák, Vice-President of the European Investment Bank (EIB).

Mr Jyrki Katainen receives Ms Beate Merk, Minister of State for European Affairs and Regional Relations of the Free State of Bavaria, Germany.

Mr Jyrki Katainen receives Mr Hervé Guillou, Chairman of defence company DCNS.

Mr Jyrki Katainen participates in a Facebook Live session on defence.  

Mr Jyrki Katainen,Mr Günther H. Oettinger, Mr Karmenu Vella, Mr Pierre Moscovici, Mr Phil Hogan and Ms Corina Creţu deliver speeches at the 7^th Cohesion Forum, organised by the European Commission, in Brussels.

Mr Johannes Hahn in Skopje, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia: on official visit.

Ms Cecilia Malmström gives a press conference for the launch of the “Report on Trade and Investment Barriers” by the European Commission, in Brussels. 

Mr Neven Mimica receives Mr Werner Hoyer, President of the European Investment Bank (EIB).

Mr Miguel Arias Cañete in Luxembourg:meets Mr Román Escolano, Vice-President of the European Investment Bank (EIB).

Mr Karmenu Vella receives Ms Anja Leetz, Executive Director of Health Care Without Harm (HCWH) Europe.

Mr Vytenis Andriukaitis in Ålesund, Norway (until 27/06): together with Mr Jon Georg Dale, Minister for Agriculture and Food; Mr Per Sandberg, Minister for Fisheries; Mr Bent Høie, Minister for Health and Care Services; and Chief Veterinary Officer, participates in a field visit to a fish farm.

Mr Dimitris Avramopoulos in Athens, Greece: participates in a symposium on “The contribution of social cohesion and solidarity in preventing drug use” organised by the Greek National Coordinator on Drugs.

Mr Christos Stylianides in Berlin, Germany (until 27/06): participates in the European Council on Foreign Relations 2017 Annual meeting; and delivers a speech at the session on “Humanitarian Aid as a Catalyst for Reconstruction”.

Ms Vĕra Jourová in Israel: meets Ms Ayelet Shaked, Minister for Justice of Israel; and Ms Gila Gamliel, Minister for Social Equality.

Mr Tibor Navracsics in Berehove, Ukraine: participates in a closing ceremony marking the end of the school year.

Mr Carlos Moedas receives Mr James Anderson, GSK Head of Corporate Government Affairs.

 

Mardi 27 juin 2017

President Jean-Claude Juncker, Ms Marianne Thyssen and Ms Corina Creţu deliver keynote speeches at the 7th Cohesion Forum, organised by the European Commission, in Brussels.

President Jean-Claude Juncker receives Mr Michael Bloomberg, Special Envoy of the United Nations for Cities and Climate Change.

President Jean-Claude Juncker receives Ms Valérie Pécresse, President of the Regional Council of Île de France.

Mr Frans Timmermans in Rotterdam, the Netherlands: participates in a Citizens’ dialogue with secondary school students.

Ms Federica Mogherini receives Mr Michael Bloomberg, Special Envoy of the United Nations for Cities and Climate Change.

Mr Maroš Šefčovič attends the Global Covenant of Mayors Board Meeting, in Brussels.

Mr Maroš Šefčovič meets representatives of Climate without Borders organisation, in Brussels.

Mr Valdis Dombrovskis receives Mr Michael Bloomberg, Special Envoy of the United Nations for Cities and Climate Change.

Mr Valdis Dombrovskis receives Mr Werner Faymann, Special Envoy of the United Nations on Youth Employment and former Chancellor of Austria.

Mr Valdis Dombrovskis and Mr Jyrki Katainen participate in a working lunch with Mr Joseph Daul, President of the European People’s Party (EPP), in Brussels.

Mr Jyrki Katainen delivers a keynote speech at the Retail Banking Conference, organised by the European Savings and Retail Banking Group, in Brussels.

Mr Jyrki Katainen delivers a speech at the conference New world order: Science, technology and trade, organised by Science|Business, in Brussels.

Mr Jyrki Katainen receives Ms Valérie Pécresse, President of the Regional Council of Île de France.

Mr Jyrki Katainen receives Mr Barnaby Joyce, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources of Australia.

Ms Cecilia Malmström delivers a speech on “Shaping a New World Order” at the “EU-China Annual Forum – Cooperation in an Age of Uncertainty” organised by Friends of Europe, in Brussels.

Mr Neven Mimica receives Mr David Beasley, Executive Director of the World Food Programme.

Mr Miguel Arias Cañete receives Mr Michael Bloomberg, Special Envoy of the United Nations for Cities and Climate Change.

Mr Karmenu Vella delivers a speech at a policy dialogue on “A sustainable future for our oceans: Can the EU set the course?” organised by the European Policy Centre (EPC), in Brussels.

Mr Karmenu Vella receives Mr Michael Bloomberg, Special Envoy of the United Nations for Cities and Climate Change.

Mr Vytenis Andriukaitis in Ålesund, Norway: participates in a political dialogue with Mr Jon Georg Dale, Minister for Agriculture and Food; Mr Per Sandberg, Minister for Fisheries; and Mr Bent Høie, Minister for Health and Care Services; and participates in a governmental One Health Seminar on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).

Mr Dimitris Avramopoulos participates in a Senior Officials’ Meeting of the EU Internet Forum, in Brussels.

Ms Marianne Thyssen receives Ms Zita Gurmai, President of the Party of European Socialist (PES) Women.

M. Pierre Moscovici à Paris, France: rencontre M. Gérald Darmanin, Ministre français de l’Action et des Comptes publics; et les membres du bureau du Conseil économique, social et environnemental (CESE) et intervient dans la plénière sur le rôle de la société civile pour l’avenir de l’Europe.

Mr Christos Stylianides receives Mr David Beasley, Executive Director of the World Food Programme.

Mr Phil Hogan receives Mr Barnaby Joyce, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources of Australia.

Ms Vĕra Jourová receives students – winners of a competition for Communication projects organised by the Representation of the European Commission in Prague.

Mr Tibor Navracsics in Rome, Italy: delivers a speech at the 24^th General Assembly of the Interparliamentary Assembly of Orthodoxy; and participates in a hearing with the Committee on Education, Cultural Heritage, Scientific Research, Audiovisual sector and Sport of the Italian Senate.

Ms Margrethe Vestager meets the Directors–General of the European Competition Authorities, in Brussels.

Mr Carlos Moedas receives Ms Valérie Pécresse, President of the Regional Council of Île de France.

Mr Julian King in Strasbourg, France: attends the EU-LISA Strategic Management Board meeting.

Mercredi 28 juin 2017

College meeting

President Jean-Claude Juncker receives Mr Thomas Stelzer, Landeshauptmann of Upper Austria.

Mr Frans Timmermans in Geneva, Switzerland (until 30/06): participates in UN Cyprus Talks.

Mr Maroš Šefčovič receives Mr Roberto Vavassori, President and Secretary General of the European Association of Automotive Suppliers (CLEPA).

Mr Maroš Šefčovič delivers a keynote speech at the 4^th Regulatory Conference “Nuclear Safety in Europe“, organised by the European Nuclear Safety Regulators Group (ENSREG), in Brussels.

Mr Valdis Dombrovskis delivers a speech at the Public Services Summit 2017, organised by the European Centre of Employers and Enterprises Providing Public Services, in Brussels.

Mr Jyrki Katainen is received for lunch by His Majesty King Philippe of the Belgians, in Brussels.

Mr Günther H. Oettinger attends the 3rd European Equality Gala 2017, in Brussels.

Ms Cecilia Malmström delivers a speech at a panel discussion on “Missing Links – Making Trade Work for Workers” co-organised by the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung and Mr Bernd Lange, Member of the European Parliament, in Brussels.  

Ms Cecilia Malmström and Ms Elżbieta Bieńkowska deliver speeches at the 3^rd European Equality Gala organised by the European Region of the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA-Europe), in Brussels.

Mr Vytenis Andriukaitis delivers a speech and participates in “Scientific, Human Health, Husbandry, and Socio-Economic Aspects of Antibacterial Resistance: Time to Act” conference, at the European Parliament, in Brussels.

Mr Vytenis Andriukaitis gives an opening interview and participates in a panel at the POLITICO event “The patient journey: improving quality of life of people living with chronic diseases”, in Brussels.

Ms Marianne Thyssen delivers a keynote introductory speech in the “Future of Social Europe, future of Social Dialogue” panel at Public Services Summit, in Brussels.

M. Pierre Moscovici reçoit M. Henri de Thoré, Président de Breiz-Europe; et M. Michel Bloch, Président de l’Union des Organisations de Producteurs de l’Ouest Français.

M. Pierre Moscovici reçoit M. Nikolaos Karamouzis, Président du Conseil d’administration de Hellenic Bank Association.

M. Pierre Moscovici prononce le discours de clôture de la Conférence sur la justice fiscale organisée par la Commission européenne, à Bruxelles.

Mr Christos Stylianides delivers a speech on “Europe and Global Humanitarian Crises” at an event organised by the NGO European Demos and the UN Regional Information Centre, in Brussels.

Mr Phil Hogan receives Mr Martin Richenhagen, President and CEO of the agricultural equipment manufacturer AGCO Corporation.

Ms Elżbieta Bieńkowska receives Mr Kris Peeters, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Employment, the Economy and Consumers of Belgium.

Ms Vĕra Jourová receives representatives of the General Council of Prosecutors of Spain.

Mr Tibor Navracsics receives Mr Peter Olesen, Chairman of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) Governing Board; and Mr Martin Kern, Interim Director of EIT, in Brussels.

Ms Margrethe Vestager delivers a speech at a High-Level Forum on State Aid 2017, in Brussels.  

Mr Carlos Moedas attends an event in honour of Mr Antonio Tajani, President of the European Parliament, in Grande Synagogue de Bruxelles, in Brussels.

Mr Julian King delivers concluding remarks at the “NATO, EU and Industry, Cooperation on Cyber-security” conference organised by the Atlantic Treaty Association (ATA) in partnership with MUST and Partners, in Brussels.

 

Jeudi 29 juin 2017

President Jean-Claude Juncker in Berlin, Germany: participates in a preparatory working session with the EU Members of the G20.

President Jean-Claude Juncker in Tallinn, Estonia (until 30/06): delivers a speech and participates in a ceremony marking the beginning of the Estonian Presidency of the Council of the European Union; and meets Mr Donald Tusk, President of the European Council, and Mr Jüri Ratas, Prime Minister for Estonia, for a working dinner.

The College of Commissioners in Tallinn, Estonia (until 30/06): participates in the events on the occasion of the forthcoming Estonian Presidency of the EU.

Mr Frans Timmermans in Geneva, Switzerland: participates in UN Cyprus Talks.

Ms Federica Mogherini attends the Conference of Presidents of the European Parliament, in Brussels.

Mr Andrus Ansip in Tallinn, Estonia (until 01/07): participates in a lunch with Ms Kersti Kaljulaid, President of Estonia; and in a Citizens’ dialogue with Ms Kersti Kaljulaid.

Mr Maroš Šefčovič participates via live web connection at the Annual Conference “Regions for the Internal Energy Market“, organised by the Agency for the Cooperation of the Energy Regulators (ACER, Slovenia).

Mr Jyrki Katainen delivers a closing speech at the Ambrosetti Observatory on Europe Forum, in Brussels.

Mr Neven Mimica delivers a speech at the high-level session “In Focus: Girls’ partnership with EU to make the 2030 agenda happen” during the event “Faces of today, leaders of tomorrow – EU joins forces with girls to end violence for good”, co-organised by the European Commission, in Brussels.

Mr Dimitris Avramopoulos in Paris, France: meets Mr Gérard Collomb, Minister of State, Minister for the Interior of France; and attends the launch of the OECD International Migration Outlook 2017.

Mr Christos Stylianides receives Ms Margarida Marques, Secretary of State for European Affairs of Portugal.

Mr Phil Hogan participates at the Official launch of a Copa-Cogeca book by the European Farmers European Agri-Cooperatives, in Brussels.

Ms Elżbieta Bieńkowska in Berlin, Germany (until 30/06): meets attendees to the 1st European Excellence Summit “The importance of cultural and creative industries for growth and health in Europe”.

Ms Vĕra Jourová delivers a keynote speech at the 6th European Insolvency and Restructuring Congress, in Brussels.

Ms Margrethe Vestager receives Mr Christos Spirtzis, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Networks of Greece.

Mr Julian King receives Mr Carl Worker, New Zealand Ambassador for Counter Terrorism and Mr Howard Broad, Deputy Chief Executive, Security and Intelligence at the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.

Mr Julian King receives Mr John Pettigrew, Chief Executive of National Grid, in Brussels.

 

Vendredi 30 juin 2017

President Jean-Claude Juncker in Tallinn, Estonia: meets Mr Mart Laar, former Prime Minister for Estonia; Mr Jüri Ratas, Prime Minister for Estonia; holds a joint press conference with Mr Jüri Ratas, Prime Minister for Estonia; meets Ms Kersti Kaljulaid, President of Estonia; together with the College of Commissioners participates in a working lunch with the Government of Estonia; and meets Mr Eiki Nestor, President of the Estonian Parliament, and the chairmen of the party factions and parliamentary committees of the Estonian Parliament.

The College of Commissioners in Tallinn, Estonia: participates in a meeting with the incoming Estonian Presidency of the Council.

Mr Frans Timmermans in Geneva, Switzerland: participates in UN Cyprus Talks.

Ms Federica Mogherini in Dubrovnik, Croatia: attends the Summit of the Heads of State of the South-East Europe Cooperation Process (SEECP).

Mr Vytenis Andriukaitis in Tallinn, Estonia: meets Mr Tarmo Tamm, Minister for Rural Affairs of Estonia; participates together with several Estonian ministers in the cluster meeting on EU Budget, Economic and Monetary Union and Social Agenda; and meets chairmen of the party factions and parliamentary committees of the Estonian Parliament.

Mr Phil Hogan in Tallinn, Estonia: meets Mr Tarmo Tamm, Minister for Rural Affairs of Estonia.

Ms Elżbieta Bieńkowska in Berlin, Germany: meets attendees to the 1st European Excellence Summit “The importance of cultural and creative industries for growth and health in Europe”; and attends the Friends of Industry Conference.

Ms Margrethe Vestager in Stuttgart, Germany: receives the Reinhold-Maier-Medal for special contribution to liberalism and the value of freedom from Freie Demokratische Partei in Baden-Württemberg.

 

Samedi 01 juillet 2017

President Jean-Claude Juncker in Strasbourg, France: delivers a speech and participates in the European Ceremony of Honour for the former Chancellor of Germany, Mr Helmut Kohl; and attends the funeral service for the former Chancellor of Germany, Mr Helmut Kohl.

Mr Frans Timmermans and Mr Valdis Dombrovskis in Strasbourg, France: participate in the European Ceremony of Honour for the former Chancellor of Germany, Mr Helmut Kohl.

 

Dimanche 02 juillet 2017

Mr Frans Timmermans in Vilnius, Lithuania: meets Mr Linas Linkevičius, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Lithuania.

Mr Neven Mimica in Lisbon, Portugal: attends the 2017 Tidewater annual meeting organised by the Chair of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Development Assistance Committee.

Mr Phil Hogan in Rome, Italy: participates in the AU-EU Agriculture Ministerial Meeting.

Prévisions des mois de juin et juillet:

26/06 Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council

03-05/07 European Parliament Plenary Session in Strasbourg

06-07/07 Informal meeting of justice and home affairs ministers

07-08/07 G20 Summit

10/07 EU- Jordan Association Council

10/07 Eurogroup

 

 

Permanence DG COMM le WE du 24 au 25 juin 2017:

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The European Commission is scaling up its response to an unprecedented cholera outbreak in Yemen with an additional €5 million, bringing total EU support for efforts to tackle the disease to €8.8 million.

“The cholera outbreak in Yemen continues to spread dramatically during the last weeks and warrants urgent action. The European Union is stepping up support to allow humanitarian partners to rapidly increase their capacity to treat people and save lives in Yemen. Crucially, humanitarian organisations must be allowed full access to do their life-saving job. While we do all we can to help those in need, only a political solution will bring this catastrophe to an end,” said Christos Stylianides, Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management.

The disease has rapidly spread to 20 of Yemen’s 22 governorates and has killed over 1000 people in the last eight weeks. Suspected cases of cholera increase by the day in the thousands and nearly 170 000 people have been affected so far.

The EU aid will support the United Nations cholera response plan which includes health treatment of cholera cases and preventive measures providing safe water and improved sanitation in high priority areas. Overall Commission humanitarian funding for Yemen in 2017 stands at €121.7 million.

Background:

In March 2015, Yemen descended into widespread armed conflict. The magnitude of the cholera outbreak is a vivid illustration of the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Yemen. Two years into the conflict, the already dire humanitarian situation in the country has significantly deteriorated. The on-going conflict, the destruction of basic infrastructure, compounded by the collapse of the economy and financial system has severely limited imports of food, medicine and fuel. The health sector is also close to collapse.

Humanitarian organisations estimate that 18.8 million people (almost 70% of the total population) are in need of humanitarian assistance.

Violations of International Humanitarian Law by the parties continue to be reported claiming a heavy toll on civilian lives and the destruction of infrastructure.

For more information:

Yemen factsheet

Statement by Commissioner Stylianides on the cholera outbreak in Yemen

This is the picture that emerges from a joint report released today by the European External Action Service and the European Commission on the partnership between the EU and Lebanon for the period from March 2015 to April 2017. The report comes ahead of the 8th EU-Lebanon Association Council, scheduled to take place on 18th July 2017 in Brussels.

The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy / Vice-President of the Commission, Federica Mogherini said: “The European Union and Lebanon have a long-standing strong relationship that is built on joint work and close cooperation in a wide array of areas. We are working together on security, counter terrorism and on the regional crises, but also on growth and job creation which is key to all Lebanese. As we agreed at the Brussels Conference on Supporting the Future of Syria and the Region in April, the European Union will continue to stand by Lebanon to implement the necessary reforms, support its stability and socio-economic development while promoting Lebanon’s example of a pluralistic and democratic society. Lebanon can also count on the EU’s support as it moves ahead with its democratic process following the agreement on a new electoral framework”.

EU Commissioner for European Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations, Johannes Hahn commented: “The European Union is supporting Lebanon in many different areas, ranging from security to education and health. EU funds, as well as the EU/Lebanon relationship more generally, have contributed to the socio-economic development of the country, helped upgrade Lebanon’s infrastructure, created opportunities for the private sector and supported important initiatives at the local level. The EU is determined to continue to support the country’s longer term development goals. This is why we are engaging with Beirut on the opportunities that exist for concessional financing via the EU’s Neighbourhood Investment Facility and the new European External Investment Plan.   The EU is also supporting Lebanon in hosting so many people in need: EU funds help both refugee and vulnerable host communities, ensure that hundreds of thousands of children receive quality education and provide access to healthcare”.

While the impact of the Syrian crisis continues to be felt across the region and beyond, Lebanon alone hosts more than 1.1 million registered refugees from Syria. Against the background of these challenges, the partnership between the EU and Lebanon has continuously strengthened and become more strategic and targeted. In line with the renewed European Neighbourhood Policy, the EU-Lebanon Partnership Priorities and Compact EU support and cooperation have been particularly focussed on developing the capacity of security and law enforcements agencies as well as a justice system in full respect of human rights, on achieving progress in the areas of good governance and the rule of law, fostering growth and job opportunities, and promoting a comprehensive and positive approach on migration and mobility.

In the last months, Lebanon has made important steps by electing a new president last October, thereby overcoming a 29-month institutional gridlock, and forming a new government last December. The Lebanese parliament’s recent endorsement of a new electoral law (which happened after the closure of the reporting period) provides the basis for parliamentary elections to be held in the coming months. This further contributes to strengthening democratic institutions in the country.

Details

The report refers to the intensive cooperation on the multilateral, regional and bilateral fronts on all the above mentioned key topics and also addresses other areas such as such as education, research and innovation and culture as well as health that form part of the EU-Lebanon Compact. EU assistance to Lebanon in these areas is targeted at having a long-term effects on the country beyond addressing the impact of the Syrian conflict such as promoting public healthcare and education for all.

The European Union has mobilised some €1 billion to assist Lebanon since the beginning of the Syrian crisis. This includes EUR 439 million in humanitarian assistance to support refugees and vulnerable Lebanese, EUR 249.5 million from the European Neighbourhood Instrument (ENI) to enhance the capacities of Lebanese institutions at central and local levels, and to support them in the provision of basic services to Lebanese vulnerable communities, Syrian refugees and Palestinian refugees from Syria. EUR 224.2 million are mobilised via the EU Regional Trust Fund in Response to the Syrian Crisis and projects worth EUR 57 million from the Instrument contributing to Stability and Peace (IcSP) will contribute to enhance stability, rule of law and reconciliation in the country.

For more information:

Full country report

EU support to Lebanon

Delegation of the European Union to Lebanon

152 projects, requesting a total of €2.7 billion in EU funding, were selected for funding.

What are the types of projects which receive funding?

The 2016 Connecting Europa Facility (CEF) Transport calls for proposals have three funding objectives:

• Removing bottlenecks and bridging missing links, enhancing rail interoperability, and, in particular, improving cross-border sections that invite applicants from all Member States
• Ensuring sustainable and efficient transport systems in the long run, with a view to preparing for expected future transport flows, as well as enabling all modes of transport to be decarbonised through transition to innovative low-carbon and energy-efficient transport technologies, while optimising safety
• Optimising the integration and interconnection of transport modes and enhancing the interoperability of transport services, while ensuring the accessibility of transport infrastructures

Funding is awarded to carry out works supporting these three objectives or studies.

Who applied?

349 applicants from all Member States and several neighbouring countries submitted proposals for a total of nearly €7.5 billion of co-funding by the call deadline on 7 February 2017. The applicants were mostly Member States and public or private undertakings.

All Member States could apply for funding under the general calls, whereas only the 15 Member States eligible for funding from the EU’s Cohesion Fund could apply for funding under the Cohesion call.

The CEF call has been over-subscribed almost 4 times, and the Cohesion envelope 6.5 times the amount of funds indicatively available.

Which Member States are eligible for funding from the EU’s Cohesion Fund?

The eligible Member States are: Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia.

Could third countries participate?

Applicants from neighbouring countries could participate in the calls under certain conditions and may only receive financial assistance if it is necessary to the achievement of the objectives of a given project of common interest. Further information is available on the call’s FAQ page. One project in Serbia for navigation on Rhine-Danube corridor will receive financing within this call.                                                                         

How much funding was available under the 2016 CEF Transport calls for proposals?

€1.9 billion was available to fund one or several call objectives. An additional sum of €639 million from unspent funds of several ongoing actions was made available to support projects in Member States eligible for funding from the EU’s Cohesion Fund.

How is the EU funding for transport infrastructure awarded?

CEF Transport funding is awarded via competitive calls for proposals mainly through grants. The 2016 CEF Transport calls for proposals were published by the European Commission’s Innovation and Networks Executive Agency (INEA) on 13 October 2016 and remained open until 7 February 2017.

The selection was based on a standard evaluation process in two phases:

• External assessment by independent experts basing their evaluation on pre-identified award criteria to ensure transparency and equal treatment of all eligible proposals
• Internal selection by the Commission service in charge of Mobility and Transport (DG MOVE), which undertook a qualitative analysis of the overall contribution of projects for the development of EU transport policy

Following these two steps, 152 projects, requesting a total of €2.7 billion in EU funding, were retained. The European Commission’s Innovation and Networks Executive Agency will prepare and sign individual grant agreements with project beneficiaries by autumn 2017.

What projects will get CEF funding under the 2016 calls for proposals?

Projects selected for funding are those with the highest EU added-value and primarily located on the core trans-European transport network. In order to ensure the most effective use of limited EU resources, these grants will be reserved for projects which are difficult to implement due to their cross-border nature, or due to a very long return on investment.

Examples of projects to be financed under the general envelope include:

• Deployment of Air Traffic Management solutions for faster, safer and more efficient travel in EU Member States (€274.8 million CEF co-funding)
• Construction of the second tunnel tube for the Karawanken road tunnel on the Austria-Slovenia cross-border section to improve road traffic flow, as well as increase capacity and road safety (€17.7 million CEF co-funding)
• Deployment of 158 high-speed electric charging points in Sweden, Denmark, Germany, France, the United Kingdom and Italy to make electric travel across borders possible (€10.2 million CEF co-funding)

The calls that were open for projects in Member States eligible for funding from the EU’s Cohesion Fund will support the flagship infrastructure projects on the core Trans-European transport network, in particular those which address low carbon modes of transport such as railways, inland waterways and ports.

Examples of projects financed include:

• Upgrade of the Białystok-Ełk section of the E75 railway line in Poland, including trackside ERTMS deployment, to shorten the travel time and increase the efficiency and safety of rail transport (€338 million CEF co-funding)
• Third stage of the Rail Baltica project that will adapt the rail link between the Baltic States to the EU gauge (€110.5 million CEF co-funding)
• Implementation of harmonised and synchronised Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) applications on the high level road network in the Central European region for improved cross-border traffic (€4.2 million CEF co-funding)
• Modernisation and development of the rail infrastructure necessary for transport operations at the Rijeka Port – (€28.6 million CEF co-funding)

How does the co-financing work? How much money comes from Member States and how much from the EU?

Transport infrastructure requires significant investment – and an important share will always come from Member States and other public and private investors. The EU’s role in terms of investment and co-ordination is to add value by removing difficult bottlenecks and building missing links and connections, and to support the creation of a real European transport network.

The normal CEF co-financing rates for TEN-T projects are:

• For the cohesion envelope: up to 85% for all projects
• For the general envelope:

o    Up to 50% for studies

o    Up to 10% for works on cross-border road sections

o    Up to 20% for works (for example exploratory works for a major tunnel)

o    Up to 50% for certain traffic management projects, like for ERTMS, to support Member States making the transition to higher standards

The call texts do not define the minimum amount of requested funding. The European Commission however strongly encourages applicants to only submit projects requesting an EU contribution for the eligible costs above €500,000 for studies and €1,000,000 for works. Applications below these thresholds are checked on a case-by-case basis.

How will the projects be managed?

The CEF Programme is managed centrally by the European Commission, which sets the political priorities and is responsible for the selection of projects through competitive calls for proposals.

The Commission is assisted by INEA for the evaluation and selection of projects and for the overall technical and financial monitoring of project implementation.

Beneficiaries in the Member States manage the projects, and the Member States remain responsible for monitoring the implementation of the projects.

What are the perspectives for further financing?

A CEF Blending call for €1bn EU funds is ongoing with two milestones for applications: 14 July and Nov. 2017. This allows financing projects across CEF objectives, in combination with EFSI funds whenever possible, or, for projects removing bottlenecks or with cross-border benefits, also with EIB, National Promotional Banks or private sector.

About 95% of the CEF Transport budget 2014-2020 will be committed, once the CEF Blending call amount of € 1 billion will be allocated (expected by end 2017). Thus, to support investments in the key priority area (promoting connectivity, efficiency, decarbonisation and digitalisation of transport) in the second half of the MFF 2014-2020, efforts to find additional sources of funds have to be made, including the proposed increase of ceilings for CEF-Transport by €300 million (under MFF Mid-Term Review), use of blending, ESI funds, EFSI and leverage of private sources whenever possible.

In addition, the European Structural Investment funds (ESI funds) Operational Programmes of Members States foresee funding of about EUR 70 billion for Transport investments during 2014-2020.