Draghi advocates European federation to boost global influence
Mario Draghi, former president of the European Central Bank, called for the establishment of a European federation to enhance the EU's global standing against the United States and China, during a speech at KU Leuven. He emphasized that Europe must overcome its divisions to avoid being marginalized and warned that without consolidation, it risks becoming subordinate and deindustrialized. Draghi's remarks come ahead of a European leaders' meeting on competitiveness scheduled for February 12.
Portugal announces €2.5 billion recovery package after Storm Kristin
Portugal's Prime Minister Luís Montenegro announced a €2.5 billion recovery package following the devastation caused by Storm Kristin, which has resulted in at least eight fatalities and extensive damage across the country. The aid includes €1 billion for rebuilding uninsured primary homes, €500 million for businesses facing cash-flow issues, and a €1 billion loan program for damaged factories. The government has also extended the state of calamity until February 8, allowing for expedited reconstruction efforts and broader powers for emergency services.
European Commission Lowers Cereulide Limits in Infant Formula
The European Commission has established a new toxin limit for cereulide in infant formula, reducing the threshold by more than half in response to ongoing global recalls linked to the toxin. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) set an acute reference dose of 0.014 μg/kg body weight for infants, indicating that concentrations above 0.054 μg/L for infant formula and 0.1 μg/L for follow-on formula may pose safety concerns. This decision follows the detection of cereulide in ingredients from a Chinese factory supplying major manufacturers, including Nestle, Danone, and Lactalis.
Tens of Thousands Rally in Prague for President Pavel
Tens of thousands of Czechs rallied in Prague on Sunday to support President Petr Pavel amid a cabinet dispute with Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky, whom Pavel accused of blackmail regarding the appointment of a controversial environment minister. Organisers from the Million Moments for Democracy movement estimated that up to 90,000 people attended the demonstration, which featured speeches and displays of Czech, European, and Ukrainian flags.
