Namur, the capital of Wallonia: a mix of tradition and dynamism
Located in the heart of Wallonia, Namur is a city that harmoniously combines tradition and modernity. With its rich historical heritage, vibrant culture and economic dynamism, Namur is an essential destination for lovers of history, nature and gastronomy.
Namur is above all a city steeped in history. Its historic center is full of magnificent buildings dating from the Middle Ages, such as the Namur citadel, which offers breathtaking views of the city and the Meuse. Built in the 18th century, this imposing fortress is a true architectural gem. History lovers will also be seduced by the Saint-Aubain Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, as well as the town hall, a 17th century building which today houses the Archaeological Museum of Namur.
But Namur is not limited to its glorious past. The city is also a major economic hub in Wallonia, with many innovative industries and companies. Thanks to its strategic geographical location, Namur benefits from exceptional connectivity, making it an attractive location for entrepreneurs and investors. The city also has an environment conducive to innovation, with internationally renowned research centers and a quality university.
Namur is also renowned for its dynamic cultural life. The city is home to numerous festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing art, music and film. The Namur international French-speaking film festival, for example, is an unmissable event for cinema lovers. The city’s museums also offer varied exhibitions, ranging from contemporary art to local history.
But Namur is also a city where life is good. The people of Namur are renowned for their friendliness and sense of welcome. The cobbled streets of the city center are full of cafes, bars and restaurants where it is pleasant to relax and taste the local specialties. Namur cuisine is rich and varied, with typical dishes such as “Boulette à la Liégeoise” or “Ardennes ham”. Local markets are also an excellent opportunity to discover local products, such as cheeses, cold meats and craft beers.
Finally, Namur is surrounded by generous nature. The region offers many opportunities for walks and hikes, particularly along the Meuse or in the green valleys of the Ardennes. Outdoor sports enthusiasts will be delighted by the activities available, such as kayaking, climbing or mountain biking.
In conclusion, Namur is a city that will appeal to all visitors looking for tradition and dynamism. Its historical heritage, its vibrant cultural life, its thriving economy and its surrounding nature make it a unique place where it is good to live and visit. Whether you are a history, gastronomy, nature or culture lover, Namur offers an unforgettable experience.
An interview with Architect Volodymyr Meshcheriakov, who led the rebuilding of the historical church in 2000–2010, destroyed by Stalin in the 1930s
By Dr Ievgeniia Gidulianova
Bitter Winter (14.09.2023) – In August 2023, less than a month after Russia’s missile heavily damaged the Transfiguration Cathedral of Odesa, Architect Volodymyr Meshcheriakov (*) was in the Ukrainian seaport to assess the damage of the Russian strike.
Meshcheriakov is a personality whose name is directly connected with the history of the reconstruction of the Odesa Cathedral of the Transfiguration of the Savior, which was completely destroyed during the time of Stalin.
In 1999, a group of architects under his leadership was the laureate of the national call for projects for the reconstruction of the Odesa Cathedral of the Transfiguration of the Savior. The cathedral was rebuilt in 2000-2010 on the basis of his project and he was then awarded the State Prize of Ukraine in the field of architecture for the reconstruction of the Odesa Cathedral. He is also the author of a monograph on this topic.
Q.: From your professional point of view, how do you assess the extent of the destruction caused to the Transfiguration Cathedral as a result of the Russian missile shelling on Odesa on the night of 23 July 2023?
Volodymyr Meshcheriakov: The rocket passed vertically through the roof above the right altar, destroying the floor of the cathedral and two underground reinforced concrete floors of the lower part of the Сathedral. The walls of this part of the building were significantly damaged. More than 70% of the roof structures and copper covering of the Cathedral were completely destroyed or damaged by shrapnel and the blast wave. Almost all the copper coating of the roof of the cathedral is subject to dismantling and restoration. The artistic decoration of the premises of the upper part of the building was almost completely destroyed. All iconostases were also thoroughly destroyed – the marble one and the two side ones. The marble flooring was significantly damaged by rocket fragments.
Q.: How much do you think it will cost to completely restore the Odesa Cathedral of the Transfiguration of the Savior?
Volodymyr Meshcheriakov: The exact amount required for the complete restoration of the Cathedral can only be determined on the basis of the development of a scientific study, design and estimate documentation for the needed work. Preparation of documentation for a detailed survey, dismantling and restoring the damaged structures, architectural and artistic decoration inside and outside of the Cathedral is a big job that can take several years. So far, the development of such documentation according to my information is not underway, the proposals for such work and sources of funding have not been identified.
I am a forensic expert at the Ministry of Justice of Ukraine and I believe that one of the elements of documentation for the restoration of the Cathedral and other destroyed objects should be a forensic report with conclusions and the amount of damage. In my opinion, this amount may be equivalent to 5 million dollars. The amount needed for the restoration of the Cathedral in its original form can be brought in court for compensation to the aggressor country.
Q.: How long can it take to achieve the restoration?
Volodymyr Meshcheriakov: I think that after identifying the sources of financing, the donors and the rebuilding companies, it will take 5 to 10 years of intensive and qualified work to completely restore the Cathedral. Now, first of all, it is necessary to inspect the cathedral and prepare design estimates for restoration.
The cathedral was built and reconstructed in stages over more than a hundred years. The Cathedral Square was designated in 1794 on the first plan of Odesa drawn up by the Dutch military engineer Franz De Volan. After the last reconstruction in 1900-1903, it accommodated up to 12,000 people and was the largest church building in the south of Ukraine, the center of spiritual life for Odesa residents.
In 1936, the Odesa Cathedral of the Transfiguration of the Savior was robbed and destroyed by the Soviet authorities, like many other churches in the USSR.
In 1991, I began collecting original data and other information about the Cathedral, and in 1993, under my leadership, the first project to reconstruct this outstanding lost cultural heritage site of Ukraine was completed.
In 1999 our project to rebuild the Cathedral won a national competition and we continued to further develop the project. The cathedral was built in three stages, starting in 2000. In 2007, it was put into operation, received the status of a historical monument of local significance in Ukraine and was solemnly consecrated in 2010. Construction, decorative and artistic work continued for more than 10 years without the use of public funds, exclusively on donations from citizens, enterprises and various other organizations. The Black Sea Orthodox Fund was created in Odesa to collect funds and donations for the design, construction and artistic decoration of the Cathedral.
Q.: Are any works already underway related to urgent measures aimed at preserving and protecting the cathedral as an object of cultural heritage of Ukraine from further destruction?
Volodymyr Meshcheriakov: At the moment, thanks to the efforts of citizens, the rubble of fragments of destroyed structures and the interior of the Cathedral has been cleared. The main thing now is the installation of temporary covering before the autumn-winter period, protecting the interiors from rain and snow. Work in this direction is proactively underway , but they are insufficient in my opinion.
All forces and means of Ukraine are now aimed at ensuring the Ukrainian army for victory over the terrible aggressor – Putin’s Russia. Also, first of all, Ukrainian citizens whose homes have been destroyed need financial support. The Cathedral building is owned by the Odesa Diocese of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC), which also helps refugees and does not have such significant funds for the restoration of the Transfiguration Cathedral.
Q. Who in Ukraine promised to contribute to the reconstruction? What is the amount of their promised contribution?
Volodymyr Meshcheriakov: Odesa Cathedral in 1999 was included in the State Program for the Reconstruction of the Outstanding Lost Cultural Heritage Sites of Ukraine, which provides for the allocation of funding for all work but no funding for this project was ever allocated. The Black Sea Orthodox Fund has been opened to collect funds for the restoration of the cathedral. To date, I have no information about the Ukrainians who volunteered to finance the restoration of the Cathedral destroyed by the Russian missile attack.
Q. Have the city authorities of Odesa approached you with an offer to take part in the restoration of the Odesa Transfiguration Cathedral?
Volodymyr Meshcheriakov: No, they didn’t contact me. As the head of the team of designers of the rebuilt Cathedral, I consider it necessary to make visible for present and future generations the fact that the Odesa Shrine was destroyed by a Russian missile. To this end, the restoration project should include a provision mentioning the origin of the destruction on the main damaged walls outside the cathedral and inside. To do this, in a future restoration project, cracks in the damaged walls outside and inside the Cathedral should be recorded and revealed in red. Such a decision will visually immortalize the strike of a Russian missile on the Odesa Cathedral. The recorded and highlighted destruction of this part of the cathedral can become one of the memorial sites of Ukraine in memory of the military aggression of Putin’s Russia.
Who is Volodymyr Meshcheriakov:
Volodymyr Meshcheriakov is a Ph.D Arch, Ass. Prof., Laureate of the State Prize of Ukraine in the field of architecture in 2010 for the reconstruction of the Odesa Transfiguration Cathedral, Member of the Ukrainian Committee of ICOMOS, Chairman of the Odesa regional branch of the Architectural Chamber of the National Union of Architects of Ukraine. Forensic expert of the Ministry of Justice of Ukraine. Research Fellow on the British Academy’s Researchers at Risk Programme and Visiting Scholar Trinity College, University of Cambridge.
Author of two monographs and more than 70 scientific publications, articles, theses in the field of architecture and protection of cultural heritage.
BRUSSELS, BELGIUM, September 14, 2023/EINPresswire.com/ — The cataclysmic aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attack was a pivotal moment for Volunteer Ministers, underscoring that regardless of the severity of the situation, “Something can be done about it.”
As we commemorate the anniversary of 9/11, Scientology Volunteer Ministers reflect on this day as a watershed moment for their movement. This tragic event spurred the mobilization of individuals who are now serving at every major disaster worldwide. Currently, Volunteer Ministers are making a difference on the ground, aiding victims of the earthquake in Morocco and those uprooted by the severe floods in Greece and Italy. The selfless aid provided by thousands of Volunteer Ministers every day is driven by the example set by the volunteers who served at the World Trade Center.
Over 800 Scientology Volunteer Ministers were on the scene at the World Trade Center following the terrorist strikes.
The New York Times reported, “More than 100 Volunteer Ministers from the Church of Scientology are present at any given time around the remnants of the World Trade Center. On the day of the attack, they brought food for the workers… When rescue workers emerge from the debris, the ministers, identifiable by their T-shirts, attempt to refocus the workers’ minds and reenergize their bodies.”
A New York Police Chief expressed his gratitude, stating, “The Volunteer Ministers displayed remarkable energy and compassion at Ground Zero, helping alleviate the physical burdens and mental pressures of the rescue workers. The organization, care, and commitment of your Volunteer Ministers were outstanding, greatly appreciated, and will be remembered by those who received their assistance.”
The leader of one rescue team noted, “There are many highly stressed, fatigued, worn-out rescue personnel here, and your efforts to help them manage their issues, cope with their emotional distress, and find some peace and rest have been extremely productive and worthwhile.”
In the wake of the attack, more than 800 Scientology Volunteer Ministers were deployed. They arrived from all corners of the country and abroad, providing support to emergency workers. Their involvement spanned the entire eight-month rescue and recovery operation.
Following the terror attacks, Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr David Miscavige issued The Wake-Up Call, a directive disseminated to Scientologists globally. As its title suggests, it urged Scientologists to take this event to heart.
A direct consequence was the swift expansion of the Scientology Volunteer Ministers movement, primed to respond to disasters, regardless of their scale. Whether they are assisting at the sites of natural and man-made disasters or addressing the needs of their neighbours and communities, the bright yellow T-shirt of the Volunteer Ministers has become a beacon of help.
Initiated by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard in 1973 and supported by the Church of Scientology International, the Scientology Volunteer Minister program now has hundreds of thousands of individuals trained as Volunteer Ministers across 185 countries.
Their creed: “A Volunteer Minister does not ignore the pain, evil, and injustice of existence. Instead, he is equipped to handle these issues and help others find relief from them and gain new personal strength.”
Their motto, regardless of the situation, is “Something can be done about it.”
Mr. Hubbard developed the Scientology Tools for Life for the training of the Volunteer Minister. These are available as free courses to anyone wishing to acquire these skills to assist themselves, their families, friends, and society. The Scientology Tools for Life training is available in 17 languages via the Scientology Website and the Volunteer Ministers website.
More than 5,000 people have reportedly died, many of them residents of Derna, which was struck by a torrent of water from two dams which burst, sweeping away whole neighbourhoods of the port city.
“Search and rescue operations are actively underway, led by national agencies, military, the Libyan Red Crescent and local volunteers”, said a statement released by the UN Spokesperson’s Office.
Catastrophic flooding breaks dams and sweeps away buildings and homes in Libya.
The Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Libya, Georgette Gagnon, has tasked an emergency response team to support local authorities and partners.
A team from the Geneva-based UN Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) operation, part of humanitarian coordination office OCHA, has been deployed to support response and relief operations.
Emergency Relief Coordinator, Martin Griffiths, announced on Tuesday an initial allocation of $10 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) to support those affected by the floods.
Oil-rich Libya has in effect been split since 2014 between an interim, internationally recognized Government operating from the capital, Tripoli, and another one in the east, with many armed groups also operating on its territory. The two sides signed a ceasefire in 2020, but political rivalries continue.
‘Brutally swept away’
The UN human rights chief, Volker Türk, issued a statement on Wednesday saying he was profoundly distressed “that thousands of lives have been so brutally swept away in eastern Libya, and so many more people have lost their loved ones, their homes, their communities, and their access to basic needs.”
He called on all Libyan political actors to overcome the deadlock preventing national unity and division, “and to act collectively in ensuring access to relief.”
“This is a time for unity of purpose: all those affected must receive support, without regard for any affiliations. It is important that particular care is taken to ensure protection of groups in vulnerable situations – who are rendered even more at risk in the aftermath of such a disaster.”
Help ‘any way we can’
Speaking to reporters earlier at UN Headquarters in New York, Secretary-General António Guterres said that the UN was ready to “work in any and every way we can with partners to help get emergency assistance to those who so desperately need it.”
The UN World Food Programme (WFP) said on Wednesday it had despatched its first shipment of food assistance to Libya in the wake of the floods which have left more than 10,000 injured or missing.
In coming days, WFP aims to reach more than 5,000 families whose lives were turned upside down when the dams burst after being hammered by Hurricane Daniel over the weekend.
‘Out of control’
“Entire neighborhoods in Derna disappeared, along with their residents, swept away by water after the two aging structures collapsed, creating a catastrophic situation that is out of control”, said WFP.
Derna is the worst-affected city while Albayda, Almarj, Benghazi, Bayada, Al Owailia, Taknes (AlJabal Al Akhdar), Talmeitha, Tobruk, Toukra, Shahhat, and Sousa were also hit.
On Tuesday, WFP commenced its response with cooperating partner LibAid, distributing rations – that include sugar, pasta, rice, wheat flour, tomato paste, white beans and cooking oil – to hundreds of families across 16 locations in the capital of the eastern administration, Benghazi.
More than 2,000 storm-affected and displaced people who fled from Derna to Benghazi have already received food and distributions are ongoing.
WFP already assists more than 52,000 people in with in-kind food and cash grants in Libya, including internally displaced people, returnees, and migrants in urban areas.
“There has been almost one attack every other day hitting vital port and grain facilities in Ukraine,” said Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Denise Brown, in a statement on Wednesday.
A Russian drone attack early on Wednesday damaged infrastructure at Ukrainian grain-exporting facilities on the Danube River.
Ukrainian officials say buildings including grain warehouses, oil storage tanks and administrative buildings, were destroyed.
The UN, citing port authorities, noted the tragic event had left at least six people injured. No deaths were immediately reported.
‘Hugely alarming’
“It is hugely alarming to hear that the two Ukrainian ports in the Danube River were once again struck during overnight Russian attacks on the Odesa Region,” Ms. Brown added.
It was the latest attack by Russia on Ukrainian port and grain facilities since Moscow quit the UN-brokered deal that had enabled Ukraine to safely export grain through the Black Sea.
“Today’s strike on Ukrainian ports was the 21st of such attacks since Russia’s decision to terminate the Black Sea Initiative less than two months ago”, said Ms. Brown.
“It is shocking but since 17 July there has been almost one attack every other day hitting vital port and grain facilities in Ukraine.”
Withdrawal from grain deal
The grain initiative was struck in July 2022, between Russia, Ukraine, Türkiye and the UN. It enabled the export of more than 32 million tonnes of grain.
But, in mid-July, Russia withdrew from the Initiative, arguing that agricultural exporters were not benefiting as the deal and separate Memorandum of Understanding had laid out.
Since then, only a handful of vessels, none of them carrying grain, have been allowed to sail from Ukraine’s Black Sea ports, according to news reports.
Ukraine is a major global supplier of grain such as sunflower oil, bailey, maize and wheat.
The war has caused global food prices to surge and is creating shortages food in Africa and the Middle East. Both import large amounts of food from Ukraine.
Pattern of attacks
“The consequences of this brutal and relentless pattern of Russian attacks are catastrophic for the people of Ukraine and the 345 million people facing hunger worldwide,” Ms. Brown warned.
According to news reports, the Governor of the Odesa region that includes the Danube River ports, has said 105 port infrastructure facilities in Ukraine had been damaged and partially destroyed since July 18, the day after Russia quit the Black Sea Initiative.
“International humanitarian law strictly prohibits attacks on civilian infrastructure. This must stop,” the Humanitarian Coordinator said.
Dr. Elseddik Haftar, a fervent defender of the “fight against terrorism,” deploys a communications strategy to establish his political influence on an international scale. After a stopover in Paris on September 10, he headed to the European Parliament in Strasbourg where he gave a speech. He also met personalities and European deputies. Subsequently, on September 12, he flew to Brussels.
Commitment against illegal immigration and terrorism:
Dr. Elseddik Haftar takes a firm position on the crucial issues of the fight against illegal immigration and terrorism, subjects of major concern for the European Union. In this capacity, he speaks at the Press Club Brussels Europe during a conference on these themes.
Following the disaster linked to the floods in Libya which left thousands dead and missing, Dr. Elseddik Haftar left Belgium during the press conference to return to his country.
Mediterranean Storm Daniel caused severe flooding in the Al Jabal Al Akhdar region in eastern Libya. The authorities in the east of the country announce thousands of victims and missing people, including at least 2,000 dead. The toll only grows heavier by the hour. Dr. Elseddik Haftar’s tour in Europe demonstrates his desire to consolidate his political weight by highlighting his commitment to the fight against terrorism. His exchanges with influential figures in Europe underline the importance of cooperation between Libya and the European Union to face these crucial challenges.
Your smart planning to do the academic assignments is important. It plays a key role in ensuring success for you in school and college. The college experience often confronts students with various external factors. This complicates your ability to maintain focus. And when you face demanding schedules of various courses, you might feel like giving up.
Using strategic planning increases the likelihood of achieving commendable grades. It also empowers you to boost your overall academic performance. This allows you to shine among your peers and get the admiration of your educators.
Upon receiving your syllabus, start a systematic exploration, week by week. Record all your pending assignments and exams. Note the dates within your trusty calendar or planner.
Juggling various courses alongside external commitments such as work or internships becomes a manageable task when you consolidate all the information in one source. This foresight enables you to plan ahead. With it, you can undertake the necessary preparations for success in each academic task. And if you see things going out of hand and wonder ‘Who can do my assignment’, worry not. Get an assignment online from a college essay writer. The assignment maker services are popular with college students. They allow them to spend study time to learn new things and read books. So whenever you need to get an assignment done by a tight deadline, seek external help.
Break down large projects into manageable small tasks
Throughout your college time, you will face substantial projects spanning the semester. Relying on last-minute cramming for these complex assignments is a wrong approach. Successful students commence these assignments weeks in advance.
Survey your syllabus for sizable projects and their respective due dates. Then set your own deadlines to ease these monumental tasks into more manageable chunks. Not everyone is capable of working in the same capacity as top students. So work as per your strengths and you will always get better results with that.
Make daily task lists and build a routine
We talk a lot about habit-building apps and to-do list apps. Using them actually changes your way of working forever. And when you are in school or college, habits and smart planning play a big role. To maintain a steady course in academics, creating a standard routine is important. Your schedule should strike a healthy balance. You should dedicate ample time to daily objectives and also have intervals for relaxation.
Additionally, daily to-do lists prove invaluable in monitoring and managing your tasks efficiently. Prioritizing the most significant items on your list improves productivity and keeps you on track.
Identify optimal study times
As you build your study calendar, remember that every individual has a distinct study period. Consider your schedule and build habits when finding the most suitable time for your studies. Experimentation may be necessary.
Once you’ve identified your optimal study hours, use this insight into both your calendar and daily task list. For example, some students preferstudying during the night while some during the day. So it really does not matter what time of the day you choose to do your college tasks. The main thing is that the time you pick up should be comfortable for you.
From Prompt to Perfection, Navigating College Assignments with Confidence 2
Build a study environment to concentrate better
Efficiency in completing your assignments depends on your capacity to work effectively. Evaluate the environment that best suits your productivity. Then fashion a workspace conducive to your scholarly tasks.
For instance, when setting out a study space at home, consider a dedicated desk or table with organized shelves to manage your books. A serene, noise-free setting away from high-traffic areas maximizes your potential for focus.
Seek professorial or mentor guidance
Entering your program with aspirations to excel in a specific field can be exciting. Yet the rigors of coursework can be overwhelming. In such moments, professors or mentors can offer invaluable advice as you navigate your academic journey. They help you improve your performance in the class. They provide guidance when challenges arise.
Join study groups
Engaging instudy groups is an excellent means of staying on course with your assignments. Connecting with peers in your program builds relationships that bear fruit in academic tasks. Collaborative study sessions give you fresh insights into the subject matter. You should also try social media platforms to find groups that interest you the most. You can meet mentees and guides there.
Conclusion
Research reveals a direct correlation between students’ organizational skills and their academic performance. Mastering self-organization and smart assignment planning reduces stress levels. It yields positive outcomes in your pursuit of knowledge.
Author’s Bio
Karl Bowman is an academic writer who has spent many years in the field. The time spent with him has made him very sharp in doing assignments that many other writers usually turn down seeing the complexity level. He is someone who is always keen to take up challenges and deliver the best. This attitude has made him the number one essay writer.
In the final State of the European Union debate, MEP Iratxe Garcia, from the Socialists and Democrats, commended the collaborative efforts of President von der Leyen and the commissioners. Garcia highlighted the unity and solidarity demonstrated in response to the 2008 financial crisis and recent global events including the pandemic and Russia’s war against Ukraine. The leader of the Socialists at the European Parliament emphasized the need for reindustrialization, ecological transition, and the reform of the electricity market. She also called for more commitment to the social pillar, addressing issues like inflation, high interest rates, gender-based violence, and social justice.
Full transcript:
Thank you, Madam President. We are attending the last debate of the Legislature on the Union, which is taking place at a time of profound change.
President von der Leyen, Commissioners, thank you for your capacity for dialogue in order to reach a consensus. We in the Socialists and Democrats Group are very proud to have contributed and to have led historic decisions that have put Europe back at the heart of our citizens.
The response to the financial crisis in 2008, weighed down by the austerity policy imposed by the right, the response to the pandemic and Russia’s war against Ukraine, led by social democracy, has been marked by unity and solidarity. Our main priority now must be to push for re-industrialisation to ensure open strategic autonomy, with an eye on Africa and Latin America.
Alongside reindustrialisation, we must make progress in the ecological transition. Curbing the effects of climate change is a legal obligation and a moral obligation. We must promote the reform of the electricity market to accelerate the deployment of renewable energies and reduce electricity prices.
Mrs Von der Leyen, in the face of climate denialists, it is crucial that today you have broken your silence with a clear message of support for the Green Pact, committing to push for laws to restore nature and air quality. We will pay close attention to seeing that these statements are delivered.
But to create wealth and new opportunities, we need to consolidate the social pillar and on that, Mrs von der Leyen, I would have liked to hear more commitment. Inflation, high-interest rates, rising mortgage rates making it difficult to make a fair living, public housing as a right and not as a commodity for speculation, parity in employment, a ban on unpaid internships, a minimum living income and an anti-poverty strategy with binding targets must become a reality.
And we must also protect women who suffer gender-based violence. Mrs von der Leyen, I agree with your statement about “No is No”, of course I do. And now it is time to take a step forward and include violence against women in the list of crimes in the European Union. Our fight for justice is unwavering because social cohesion not only dignifies people but allows us to act with weight and a voice in the world.
Today we are united in the face of the aggressor. Putin is a criminal who will spend his last days in an international court and the Commission must come forward without further delay with a proposal to invest the frozen Russian assets in the reconstruction of Ukraine.
We are united, but let us not become complacent. It is time to strengthen the unity of the European Union. We must speed up decision-making towards a qualified majority and we must also continue to support the other countries in our neighbourhood that want to unite their destiny with that of the European Union.
And while we face the main challenges, we need to solve other challenges that will mark the future of Europe: the Migration and Asylum Pact to prevent the loss of lives in the Mediterranean. And let me say one thing here, Mrs von der Leyen, European taxpayers’ money cannot end up in the pockets of governments that are attacking people’s fundamental rights.
We need a permanent fiscal capacity to deal with future crises, reform of fiscal rules, and more social justice….
We need an economy that is not only more competitive. It is not enough just to grow economically. That economic growth has to translate into people living better, into benefits being distributed for all and not privileges for a few.
Ladies and gentlemen, in the European Union we are living a life project that has built the best place for democracy, rights, equality and solidarity, and today the alliance of the right and the extreme right represents a complete failure that is heading towards regression.
Mr Weber, in politics it is essential to be coherent, and being coherent means matching words with deeds. You cannot appeal to and refer to the Von der Leyen majority and then add your votes to those of the extreme right in order to form governments and to form majorities in this Parliament. That cannot be done.
But there is no going back. There is no turning back. We will continue to build a prosperous, open and inclusive union. A union proud in its plurality and diversity, a union that embraces the rule of law, steadfast in the fight for equality and social justice, a union of tolerance and progress.
There is always time for a dream. Seventy years ago, Europe dreamt its best destiny and made it a reality. Today, another year on, we live that dream. Let us continue to make it a reality. Thank you very much.
Leuven, cradle of Belgian beer: discover the best breweries and bars in the city
Belgium is known worldwide for its brewing tradition and its quality beer. Among the Belgian cities that stand out for their passion for beer, Leuven is certainly one of the most remarkable. Located in the Flemish region, this charming town is a true paradise for beer lovers who want to discover local breweries and taste unique brews.
Leuven is often considered the birthplace of Belgian beer, thanks in large part to its famous Stella Artois brewery. Founded in 1366, the brewery has gained international fame and is today one of the most popular beer brands worldwide. Beer lovers can visit the Stella Artois Brewery to learn about its fascinating history and discover the secrets of making this iconic beer.
Besides Stella Artois, Leuven is home to many other craft breweries worth discovering. One of the most popular is the Domus brewery, located in the historic center of the city. Founded in 1985, this brewery offers a wide selection of house beers, all brewed using traditional methods. Visitors can sample a variety of beers, from light lagers to full-flavored browns, while enjoying the bar’s friendly atmosphere.
Another must-visit brewery in Leuven is the De Kroon Brewery, founded in 1909. Known for its specialty De Kroon beer, this brewery also offers seasonal beers and collaborations with other craft breweries. Beer lovers can visit the brewery for a guided tour and tasting, or simply relax in the adjoining bar and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
In addition to breweries, Leuven is also full of numerous beer bars where visitors can discover a wide selection of Belgian and international beers. One of the most popular bars is the famous Café Belge, located on the Old Market Square. This iconic bar offers over 300 different beers, ranging from Belgian classics to craft beers from around the world. With its lively atmosphere and impressive beer selection, Café Belge is an ideal place to spend a pleasant evening with friends.
Another beer bar not to be missed is Arto, located near the Stella Artois brewery. This bar offers a selection of local beers, some of which are brewed exclusively for the establishment. Visitors can sit inside the comfortably furnished interior or take advantage of the outdoor terrace to taste their favorite beer while admiring the view of the brewery.
Finally, for those who want to learn more about the history of Belgian beer, a visit to the Beer Museum is essential. Located in a former brewery, the museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of beer in Belgium, its traditional production and its cultural significance. Visitors can admire an impressive collection of old beer bottles, labels and brewery-related items, and learn about the different stages of beer making.
In conclusion, Leuven is a true paradise for beer lovers who want to discover the best breweries and bars in the city. Whether you are interested in visiting historic breweries or tasting craft beers, Leuven offers a unique experience for every beer lover. So, don’t hesitate to come and discover this charming Flemish town and taste a good Belgian beer in one of its many specialized establishments. Health !
The changes to Parliament’s Rules of Procedure were adopted in plenary today with 505 votes in favour, 93 against, and 52 abstentions.
MEPs adopted a reinforced ban on all MEP activities that would constitute lobbying, the obligation for MEPs to submit declarations of input on ideas or suggestions received from external actors to be annexed to all reports and opinions, and harsher penalties for breaches of the code of conduct. Other changes introduced include:
broader rules on the publication of meetings so they apply to all MEPs (not just those who hold official positions) and cover meetings with third country representatives;
stronger rules on ‘revolving doors’, introducing a ban on MEPs from engaging with former MEPs who have left Parliament in the previous six months – complementary to the ban on such activities for former MEPs for the same period;
an expanded definition of conflicts of interest, better rules on relevant public declarations, and decision-making powers for competent bodies on whether MEPs with conflicts of interest should hold specific positions;
lower thresholds to declare remunerated activities;
declarations of assets at the beginning and end of every term of office;
stronger rules on accepting gifts and declaring travel/subsistence costs paid by third parties, as an MEP as well as a representative of Parliament;
a stronger role for the competent Advisory Committee and its expansion to include eight MEPs (up from five); and
specific rules to regulate activities by unofficial groupings of MEPs.
These changes will come into force on 1 November 2023, except where changes empower the Bureau and the Quaestors to adopt implementing measures, which will apply immediately. Declarations of interests submitted prior to these changes will remain valid until the end of the year.
