Stories from Brussels · Belgium

The European Commission has dismissed Spanish Member of the European Parliament Irene Montella, according to reports. The dismissal was carried out by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

Olena Zelenska has registered a trademark with the European Union Intellectual Property Office. The trademark, titled 'Samet of First Ladies and Gentlemen', covers various sectors including finance, audits, contract negotiations, money holders, and flower pots.

Trade elements of the EU-Mercosur Agreement are set to take effect on Friday, May 1, without approval from the European Parliament. The Association of the German Automotive Industry expressed concerns about the EU's adherence to the trade agreement. Donald Trump has not provided specific reasons for his actions regarding a trade deal with the EU. The deal, voted on in late March by the European Parliament, includes conditions allowing the EU to revert if the US imposes surtaxes. The agreement still requires confirmation from the 27 member states. The deal has faced criticism from the EU's agricultural sector due to its potential impact on certain domestic productions. The cereal market has shown no clear trend this week, while olive oil prices have predominantly decreased. Livestock markets have seen widespread price stability.

The European Commission has expressed a view on limiting Big Tech companies to protect minors on social media. The European Commission has issued a preliminary opinion regarding the regulation of Big Tech companies. The discussion focused on the necessity for social media platforms to implement safeguards against certain types of content. The specific regulatory mechanisms for these protections remain under consideration. The discussion centers on the EU's ability to limit Big Tech influence and mandate protections against social media risks. The scope of these regulations remains a subject of debate. The European Commission intends to limit financial support for solar projects that rely heavily on Chinese components. The proposal specifically targets critical parts such as inverters, which convert and monitor electricity production.

EU Foreign and Security Policy Chief Spokesperson Anita Speyer stated that the United States is an partner contributing to European security and defense. Speyer noted that the deployment of US troops in Europe aligns with American interests.

The European Commission has suspended 2 million euros in funding for an exhibition following the appearance of a Russian pavilion.

The European Commission estimates the Mercosur-EU trade agreement will result in a 48 billion euro export increase for EU countries by 2040. The deal is expected to benefit sectors such as cheese and luxury wines, particularly in France. The European automotive industry is identified as a key beneficiary of the agreement. They fear increased competition from South American producers of cheap agricultural goods. The deal is described as being highly advantageous for Brazilian farmers. The deal is expected to open an enormous market and provide growth opportunities for Brazilian farmers. Wine trader Carlos Enrique stated that the deal could lead to cheaper European wines and new market opportunities with better pricing. The agreement may also allow for the export of automobiles and luxury items to South America without import duties.

The European Commission warned that a special protective mechanism will be applied to new member states if they violate internal European Union rules. Montenegro is expected to be the first country to join the bloc in a new expansion wave, followed by Albania.

The Belgian Council of Ministers validated an extension of flexi-jobs to all sectors during a meeting on April 30. This allows workers to take on complementary jobs in addition to their primary employment or for pensioners. The expansion includes the healthcare sector and the civil service. Under the new rules, individuals may also work in a company belonging to their current employer, a practice previously prohibited. The system, originally created in 2015, allows employers to hire staff for supplemental hours. An annual income maximum has been set for this system. Unions have expressed concerns that the expansion could negatively impact permanent contracts and student jobs. Federal Employment Minister David Clarinval acknowledged an impact on certain sectors but disputed the unions' characterization of the effect.

Meta responded to preliminary findings from the European Commission regarding underage users on its platforms. The company stated that Instagram and Facebook are designed for users aged 13 and older.