Eurotopics.net

Sixty-four billion dollars in contracts have been signed in Beijing at a three-day conference on the New Silk Road, according to Chinese reports. Almost 40 heads of state and government from all over the world gathered to discuss the next phases of the controversial infrastructure initiative. Commentators focus on the criticism of the project and Beijing's reaction.

Two journalists in Estonia who recently spoke out critically about the new far-right coalition partner Ekre handed in their resignations last week. Both claimed that their employer had demanded that they be "more neutral" in their reporting. Vilja Kiisler hosted a talk show on the website of Postimees newspaper; Ahto Lobjakas was a commentator for the public radio broadcaster ERR. While some journalists voice concern, others see no reason to worry.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin have met in Vladivostok. Their talks focused primarily on North Korea's nuclear disarmament, Putin told journalists. The summit didn't produce any concrete results, however. Commentators explain why that's not what it was all about anyway.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's Socialist Party has good chances of winning Spain's parliamentary elections on Sunday according to polls. But the prospect of the far-right Vox party claiming seats in the national parliament for the first time may offer the conservatives and liberals an opportunity to prevent Sánchez from remaining prime minister. Journalists see the outcome of the election campaign as uncertain and many questions left open.

French President Macron on Thursday presented the conclusions he has drawn from the grand debate. The measures announced - some in detail and some still sketchy - include higher pensions, lower taxes, reduced public spending, more civic participation and increased support for single parents. Is the president polishing up his image or will the reforms really help the people?