Photo : Civil Protection of Iceland/REUTERS
NIAS Europe Daily Brief #707 I 19 December 2023, Tuesday
In Brief
By Rishika Yadav
GERMANY
Defence minister signs deal to deploys troops in Lithuania by 2027
On 18 December, Boris Pistorius, Defence Minister, signed a deal with Arvydas Anušauskas, Lithuania’s Defence Minister for the deployment, aimed at leading NATO’s eastern defence amid the Ukraine conflict. The deal involves a move to station 4,800 troops 100 kilometers from the Russia’s border. Pistorius said: “The speed of the project clearly shows that Germany understood the new security reality.” Despite challenges, like awaiting tank replacements, the brigade is slated for deployment in Lithuania. According to Roderich Kiesewetter, a politician from the Christian Democrats, Germany’s plan to deploy elements in 2024 and complete the brigade by 2027 seems to be uncertain due to inflation impacting financial reserves. Lithuania is expected to invest 0.3 per cent of its GDP for infrastructure. Pistorius emphasized sustainability beyond 2027, highlighting the need for long-term capabilities. The deployment aligns with Germany’s commitment to protect NATO allies and fortify its military readiness in the face of potential threats from Russia. (Caleb Larson, “Germany puts its troops in the line of fire if Putin attacks NATO,” POLITICO, 18 December 2023)
ICELAND
Volcano erupts in Reykjanes Peninsula
On 19 December, a volcanic eruption took place in the Reykjanes peninsula following weeks of seismic activity. The Icelandic Meteorological Office confirmed the event after preceded by minor earthquake. Katrin Jakobsdottir, Prime Minister, expressed concern on the significant impact of the eruption. Vidir Reynisson, head of Civil Protection and Emergency Management, highlighted the swift magma flow, deeming it substantial for the region. He cautioned against visiting the area, stressing on its danger. Gudni Thorlacius Johannesson, President, prioritized safeguarding lives and infrastructure. Reykjavik’s international airport remains operational, advising travelers to monitor flight statuses. (“Icelandic volcano erupts after weeks of buildup,” Deutsche Welle, 19 December 2023)
THE UK
Adobe abandons USD 20 billion Figma takeover over regulatory hurdles
On 18 December, Adobe withdrew its planned USD 20 billion acquisition of design software rival Figma. According to Dylan Field: “Despite thousands of hours spent with regulators around the world detailing differences between our businesses, our products, and the markets we serve, we no longer see a path toward regulatory approval of the deal.” The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority demanded for a sale of one of the Figma’s unit that would undermine the deal’s core purpose. The European Commission warned about eradicating current and future competition between the companies, potentially impacting consumer prices and choices. Margrethe Vestager, EU Competition Chief, stressed the need to safeguard future competition in digital markets. Despite falling below typical revenue thresholds, the deal underwent scrutiny under the Article 22 procedure, highlighting its potential issues. Adobe is set to pay Figma a USD one billion termination fee due to the scrapped agreement. (Giovanna Faggionato, “Adobe abandons Figma takeover after Brussels, UK opposition,” POLITICO, 18 December 2023)
TURKEY
Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s Budapest visit strengthens ties with Hungary
On 19 December, a visit by Recep Tayyip Erdogan, President, to Budapest marked the 100th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Turkey and Hungary. Erdogan emphasized on enhancing defence and energy collaborations, aiming to boost annual bilateral trade from USD four billion to USD six billion. Victor Orban, Hungary’s Prime Minister expressed Hungary’s eagerness for mutual success with Turkey in the 21st century. The visit formalized an “advanced strategic partnership.” (“Erdogan and Orban pledge closer ties in Budapest meeting,” Deutsche Welle, 19 December 2023)
SWITZERLAND
Delegation meets objectives at World Radiocommunication Conference
On 18 December, the Federal Council reported that the World Radiocommunication Conference 2023 (WRC) in Dubai finalized crucial decisions on future radio spectrum usage. The conference concluded on 15 December. Across four weeks of intense negotiations, agreements were secured concerning mobile communications, satellites, aviation, and scientific applications. The delegation effectively fulfilled the Federal Council’s outlined objectives. (“World Radiocommunication Conference 2023: Swiss delegation achieved its goals,” The Federal Council, 18 December 2023)
REGIONAL
Euro 7 deal entails stricter rules on road vehicle emissions
On 18 December, agreement reached by the European Parliament and Council on Euro 7 rules to curtail emissions from road transport vehicles: cars, vans, buses, trucks, and trailers. The agreement is aimed to promote cleaner mobility while keeping vehicle prices affordable. The new regulation enhanced exhaust emission limits for buses and trucks in labs and real driving conditions. It introduced stringent brake particle emission caps and mandated improved battery durability for electric and hybrid vehicles. It also proposed an Environmental Vehicle Passport for emission data at registration. Alexandr Vondra, European Conservatives and Reformists Group reporter, emphasized balancing environmental goals and manufacturers’ interests. Approval is pending before enforcement in 30-48 months, targeting cleaner and more durable vehicles. (“Euro 7: Deal on new EU rules to reduce road transport emissions,” European Parliament, 18 December 2023)