Columns 

Not everyone buys into engagement with Russia

Seen from a German point of view, eastern Europe's disenchantment with the European Union is both untrue and fantastically offensive. How can the countries of eastern Europe feel betrayed by Germany when it was German pressure that got them into the EU (far too early, in the view of some existing members)? Germany is a huge investor in the region, a guarantee of stability, and a strong advocate for the ex-communist countries: that, at least, is the prevailing view in Berlin.

Let's build unions east and north, too

One of the shortcomings of the Lisbon treaty is its built-in escape-hatch for those member states which do not wish for any more integration but [...]

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Columns 

Riding on the euro in the economic fast-lane

For those of us in at the creation of the euro – albeit in my case in a modest advisory role – the coming tenth anniversary of the May summit at which EU leaders finalised the 1 January 1999 launch date is a moment of extreme satisfaction. Even more so for a Brit persistently infuriated by his fellow countrymen's decades-long attitude “of course it will never happen, and if it does it won't work”. The euro is up there as the world's second reserve currency and soon the citizens of a 16th member state – Slovakia – will be treating it as their own.

Why central banks must take the lead

Central banks must step up to the plate and take a bigger role in financial regulation, however uncomfortable that may be for some.

Economics 

EU backing renewable energy in overseas territories

Extra funds for energy initiatives are foretaste of proposals designed to revitalise Atlantic and Indian Ocean islands.

Disappointment clouds Balkan investment plans

Attempt to harmonise investment floundering.

Tax-evasion report demanded

EU finance ministers start process of closing tax loopholes.

Business 

Spain facing court over Endesa case

European Commission threatening to take Madrid to the European Court of Justice.

US, EU begin fresh ‘open skies' talks

Second phase of liberalisation talks focuses on mergers and aligning rules governing the US and EU aviation markets.

Do manufacturers lack drive for greener cars?

A UK expert on greener vehicles has no sympathy for foot-dragging carmakers.