Opinions

Belgium and the European Union signed the United Nations Convention on the International Effects of Judicial Sales of Ships (the “Beijing Convention on the Judicial Sale of Ships”) at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on 14 March 2024. Belgium is the eighteenth State to sign the treaty. The European Union signs in accordance with Article 18(1) of the Beijing Convention on Judicial Sale of Ships which provides that a Regional Economic Integration Organization that is constituted by sovereign States and has competence over certain matters governed by the Convention may sign the Convention. Article 18(2) of the Convention…

Today is the Austrian National Holiday. The Armed Forces presented a selection of their emergency vehicles. Normal citizens have the chance of examining tanks such as the “Leopard II” main battle tank and the “Ulan” infantry tank. The “Husar” multi-purpose vehicle is also in display. This vehicle is used for transport, patrol, command and reconnaissance. Helicopters and fighter planes are landed at Heldenplatz, plus a full-size model of Eurofighter. Approximately 1,000 new Bundeswehr soldiers, including 20 women, marched in at 10:15 a.m. A Eurofighter flew overhead shortly afterwards. And the swearing-in ceremony began at 11 a.m. in the presence of…

I have been closely following dramatic events in Israel and Gaza. I will never forget the images of the supercharged cycle of violence and horror.  I am in continuous contact with leaders in the region with an immediate focus on several key priorities. We must avoid spillover of the conflict.  I am concerned about the recent exchange of fire along the Blue Line and recent reported attacks from Southern Lebanon. I appeal to all parties – and those who have an influence over those parties — to avoid any further escalation and spillover.   I call for the immediate release of all Israeli hostages held in…