The Greek half of Cyprus has been hard-hit by the banking crisis -- and now hopes are growing in the Turkish north for reconciliation. If the two populations could resolve their dispute, they could likely access large natural gas reserves estimated to be worth hundreds of billions of euros. By Ulrike Putz in Gemikonagi more... [ Forum ]
Following the succession of his mother Beatrix on Tuesday, Willem-Alexander became King of the Netherlands in a grand ceremony that drew royals from around the world and up to a million spectators. Most celebrated the coronation, but anti-monarchists also protested the historic day. By Gesa Mayr in Amsterdam more... [ Forum ]
German-born Olympic canoeist Josefa Idem has been named Italy's new minister for sports and equal opportunity. It's her first foray into national politics, and she's already sparring with the country's political heavyweights. By Fabian Reinbold more... [ Forum ]
For years, the Dutch doubted whether Willem-Alexander -- the easy-going prince disparaged in the media as stupid, lazy and intemperate -- had what it takes to rule. Crowned king on Tuesday morning, the 46-year-old will now attempt something his mother never did: to be a thoroughly modern monarch. By Gesa Mayr more... [ Forum ]
European Parliament President Martin Schulz shielded German Chancellor Angela Merkel from French criticism on Monday evening, saying she couldn't be held responsible for all the bloc's economic woes because 26 other leaders are also involved in decision-making. more...
While French President François Hollande deals with dismal jobless figures and turmoil surrounding the recent legalization of gay marriage, his upbeat predecessor goes on the thinly veiled offensive in Montreal. "When I look at those who succeeded me," Nicolas Sarkozy says, "I feel very good." more... [ Forum ]
Two months after the election, Italy finally has a new government. It is made up of parties bitterly opposed to each other, much like the political situation in Greece. Can it prevent political chaos and keep Silvio Berlusconi from rising again? By Fiona Ehlers more... [ Forum ]
Italy's new left-right government, sworn in on Sunday, is younger than previous cabinets, has more women and contains a mix of technocrats and politicians. It's a promising start, write German commentators. But they note that it faces huge pressures, and will need to deliver results quickly. more...
Wages in Germany must increase and the government should establish a nationwide minimum wage, says EU Social Affairs Commissioner László Andor. In an interview with a German daily, he calls for a radical change in policy in the euro crisis and argues for a shift away from the country's export model. more... [ Forum ]
