Source: European Commission (video statements)
Energy prices are rising but the EU is taking action.
From state aid to tax cuts and infrastructure improvements, measures aim to minimise the impact on citizens and businesses.
EU Urges Restraint in the Middle East
Source: European Commission (video statements)
The situation in the Middle East is increasingly serious.
The EU calls for restraint, protection of civilians, and is stepping up support with €450M in humanitarian aid.
€90B for Ukraine: EU Will Deliver
Source: European Commission (video statements)
Despite delays, EU support for Ukraine remains firm.
The €90 billion loan is facing obstacles but the EU is clear: support will come, one way or another.
Outlook for world trade in 2026-2027
Source: World Trade Organization – WTO (video statements)
World trade is set to slow in 2026 following stronger than expected growth in 2025 on the back of surging trade in AI-enabling products. WTO economists warn that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East could further reduce trade growth if energy prices remain elevated, noting that it would also put pressure on food supplies and services trade due to travel and transport disruptions. Prospects could still improve if the conflict ends quickly and the boom in AI spending continues.
Download this video from the WTO website:
https://www.wto.org/english/res_e/webcas_e/webcas_e.htm
UK LIVE: Prime Minister Kier Starmer questioned by MPs on Liaison Committee
Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)
MPs question Keir Starmer on the international situation and defence, with a focus on the Middle East, the UK’s economic security and the economic impact of the conflict in Iran.
https://committees.parliament.uk/event/26799/formal-meeting-oral-evidence-session/
International Day of Nowruz 2026 – UN Chief Message | United Nations
Source: United Nations (video statements)
Video message by António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, on the International Day of Nowruz 2026 (21 March).
"Dear friends,
For more than 300 million people around the world, Nowruz represents renewal.
A new year.
A new spring.
A new chance to build bridges of understanding and mutual respect among all cultures and peoples.
In these difficult and divided times, the message of Nowruz is vital.
Its timeless values of diversity, dialogue, understanding and reconciliation represent a powerful path to achieving the peace, human rights and dignity that the United Nations works for each and every day.
The challenges faced by the human family are immense.
But Nowruz can be our guide.
Across all nations and cultures, let’s walk together as we build a more peaceful, sustainable and inclusive world for all people.
May this Nowruz bring joy, health, prosperity and peace".
More info: https://www.un.org/en/observances/international-nowruz-day
Focus Session on the digital euro pilot (II)
Source: European Central Bank (video statements)
The ECB is hosting an online focus session designed to support payment service providers (PSPs) in preparing for the call for expression of interest to participate in the digital euro pilot. This session offers PSPs a chance to engage directly with the Eurosystem, ask questions, and gain insights into the technical and operational aspects of the pilot. Further details about the session will be shared closer to the date.
Get a glimpse of the person behind the mic ✨
Source: European Central Bank (video statements)
Meet Catherine, the host of our new What the Euro?! series – and so much more!
From her love of cats, cookies and coffee to her passion for storytelling, Catherine’s bringing a whole new energy to the podcast 🎤💥
Haven’t listened yet? Check out the latest episode of Euro Matters wherever you get your podcasts 🎧
UK Strait of Hormuz | Lords Questions
Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)
The Strait of Hormuz was in the spotlight in the House of Lords this week as members quizzed the government on steps it’s taking to keep the waterway open for shipping.
📺 Watch the full question https://orlo.uk/DB7ml
War in the Middle East, Energy Prices, and the Single Market: European Council Meeting
Source: European Commission (video statements)
On 20 March 2026, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen participated in the joint press conference with President Costa following the meeting of the European Council of March 2026.
In her speech, President Ursula von der Leyen articulated several urgent topics, starting with the circumstances unfolding in the Middle East. She underscored the need for de-escalation, civilian protection, and regional support, including the European Union’s recent announcement of over EUR 450 million in humanitarian assistance.
Concerning energy, President von der Leyen detailed strategic approaches to manage price volatility and secure supply, including both immediate relief measures and necessary structural alterations.
Additionally, she elaborated on efforts to simplify EU governance and invigorate the Single Market, proposing initiatives to ease cross-border business operations and adapt competition policies amidst evolving global dynamics.
On Ukraine, President von der Leyen reaffirmed the EU’s unwavering support through a EUR 90 billion loan, despite political impediments that have blocked its disbursement. She assured that the EU is committed to exploring alternative avenues to deliver this critical financial assistance.
For the full transcript of the speech, see here:
https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/statement_26_663
Watch on the Audiovisual Portal of the European Commission:
https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/media/video/I-286931
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