Hidden Belgium

Vielsalm hiking trails

Bestselling author Derek Blyth picks out one of his favourite hidden secrets of Belgium every day
Brussels Behind the Scenes: Salon de la dernière chance
France's EU presidency draws to a close next week. Emmanuel Macron has one last chance to score a big win but can the French pull it off?

EU Tracker
- Today - Consultations open
The EU auditors will publish a report on 30 June on the Commission’s use of external consultants for reports, studies and other advice. Billions are spent on these services and the report will conclude whether that is money well spent.
- Tomorrow - Czech in
Czech Republic takes over the rotating EU presidency from France.
- July 4 - Digital votes
MEPs will debate and then vote on the Digital Markets Act and Digital Services Act at the July plenary.
- July 5 - Right to repair
The European Commission will publish its plan for new design requirements and consumer rights for electronics. This will likely include a definition on the ‘right to repair’, potentially unlocking longer-lasting electronics and reshaping how consumers purchase smartphones and other devices.
- July 5 - Taxonomy D-day
Two Parliament committees voted to reject the Commission’s plan to label fossil gas and nuclear power as sustainable investments. A tight result is expected in plenary next month and alliances are now being built. Keep an eye on the draft agenda here.
- December 1 - EU-US TTC
The next round of the EU-US trade and technology council is scheduled for December.
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