The coronavirus pandemic has claimed thousands of lives and put health systems under enormous strain. The Commission’s immediate priority is fighting the virus and mitigating the socio-economic consequences of the pandemic. At the same time, we must start looking ahead so that Member States can gradually lift their containment measures, with a view to entering the recovery phase and revitalising our societies and economy. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to a gradual, science-based and effective lifting of containment measures,...

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May 27, 2020 | Today, the European Commission has put forward its proposal for a major recovery plan. To ensure the recovery is sustainable, even, inclusive and fair for all Member States, the European Commission is proposing to create a new recovery instrument, Next Generation EU, embedded within a powerful, modern and revamped long-term EU budget. The Commission has also unveiled its adjusted Work Programme for 2020, which will prioritise the actions needed to propel Europe's recovery and resilience. The coronavirus has shaken Europe and the world...

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May 26, 2020 | • Pandemic greatly amplified existing vulnerabilities of the financial sector, corporates and sovereigns • Policy responses to pandemic essential to preserve financial stability • Euro area banks, although now better capitalised, likely to face significant losses and further pressure on profitability Despite the immense social and economic disruption in the wake of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, decisive policy responses have helped to prevent a seizing-up of the financial system. However, even as infection rates fall in many countries, the...

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May 26, 2020 | Main results Ministers held an exchange of views on a comprehensive approach to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the de-escalation of containment measures and economic recovery. They were invited to share their experiences and provide comments on how to gradually lift restrictions related to COVID-19 and restart the economy and social activities, taking into account the health considerations. Ministers outlined their national measures and timelines, stressing the importance of continued cooperation between member states, as well as ensuring a proportionate and non-discriminatory...

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May 22, 2020 | Statement by HR/VP Josep Borrells I regret the announcement by the United States to withdraw from the Open Skies Treaty. The Treaty on Open Skies is a key element of our arms-control architecture and serves as a vital confidence and security-building measure. Since it came into force in 2002, this agreement has enabled to carry out more than 1.500 reconnaissance missions over the territories of all the signatory states. The treaty provides transparency and predictability. It is an important...

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