Eurotopics.net

Germany takes over the EU Council presidency today, July 1. As during Germany's last presidency in 2007, Chancellor Angela Merkel is still leading the country. Observers see getting the EU through the coronavirus crisis and rebuilding the economy as her most important task. While most believe she can achieve this, others have their doubts.

China has passed the controversial national security law in Hong Kong. The legislation was initiated by the National People's Congress at the end of May and has now been unanimously adopted by the Standing Committee. The law gives the authorities considerable powers to crack down on the opposition and the protests that have not let up since 2019. What does the legislation mean, and how should the world react?

In a letter to the President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Felix Tshisekedi, King Philippe of Belgium for the first time expressed his regret for the violence and cruelty his country inflicted on the region during the colonial period and the discrimination that continues to this day. The letter was sent on the 60th anniversary of the DRC's independence. Europe's press approves of the step but stresses that much more must be done.

French President Emmanuel Macron has made serious accusations against Nato partner Turkey regarding its role in the conflict in Libya. Those who "massively import" jihadist fighters from Syria back into the country were disregarding the decisions of the Berlin Libya Conference, he said. Over the last few weeks Ankara has been providing support for the troops of the UN-recognised unity government in Tripoli. Where is this dispute heading?