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Council Calls for Greater Efforts to Combat Child Poverty

The Council of the EU has adopted conclusions calling for increased support to combat child poverty and enhance child well-being. The conclusions emphasize the economic benefits of investing in children and urge member states and the Commission to ensure adequate funding and targeted policies, aiming for five million fewer children at risk of poverty or social exclusion by 2030.

Andrés Ritter Confirmed as European Chief Prosecutor

The Council of the EU has confirmed the appointment of Andrés Ritter as the new European Chief Prosecutor for the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO). His term begins on November 1, 2026, succeeding Laura Codruța Kövesi. The EPPO investigates crimes against the financial interests of the EU.

Eurogroup Statement on Belgian Draft Budgetary Plan for 2026

The Eurogroup has welcomed Belgium's draft budgetary plan for 2026, noting its compliance with the Stability and Growth Pact. The group will continue to monitor economic and fiscal developments in Belgium and across the EU.

Council Recommendation on Tackling Skills Shortages

The Council of the EU has adopted a recommendation to help member states tackle labour and skills shortages in strategic sectors. This non-binding guidance aims to boost competitiveness and resilience by investing in people's knowledge and skills, addressing challenges in areas like digital technologies, health, and farming.

Eurogroup Meeting Remarks on Macroeconomic Developments and Middle East Crisis

Remarks following the Eurogroup meeting on March 9, 2026, addressed macroeconomic developments, the impact of the Middle East crisis on energy markets and inflation, and the need to accelerate the energy transition and strengthen Europe's strategic autonomy. The meeting also endorsed Belgium's draft budgetary plan for 2026.

EU Leaders Discuss Iran War, Regional Attacks, and Energy Security

EU leaders discussed the war in Iran, regional attacks, and energy security with Middle Eastern countries. The statement condemned attacks, expressed solidarity, and announced humanitarian aid for Lebanon, while reaffirming commitment to regional stability and maritime operations.

Cultural Property Grants 2026 Program Cycle Announced

The Bureau Of Educational and Cultural Affairs announced the 2026 program cycle for Cultural Property Agreement Implementation Grants (CPAIG). U.S. embassies in countries with cultural property agreements can submit applications for projects to protect cultural property. The application deadline is April 15, 2026, though specific embassy deadlines may vary.

OFAC Adds Sudanese Muslim Brotherhood to SDN List

The US Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has added the Sudanese Muslim Brotherhood to its Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List. This action imposes sanctions on the entity and carries secondary sanctions risk under Executive Order 13224, as amended.

GP Support Contract Awarded for Petersfield Urgent Treatment Centre

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust has awarded a contract for GP support services to the Petersfield Urgent Treatment Centre. The contract is valued at £14,400 and will run from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027.

Fire Fighters/Officers Waking Watch at Union Park Estate Tender

The London Borough of Hillingdon has published a contract notice for emergency fire fighting and waking watch services at Union Park Estate. The contract was awarded to FIDUCIA SECURITY SERVICES LTD for £135,360, citing extreme urgency due to a fire risk assessment.