Latest news with #EU-approved
Euractiv
6 days ago
- Business
- Euractiv
Tusk unveils major cabinet reshuffle amid coalition crisis
WARSAW – Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced a long-awaited cabinet reshuffle on Tuesday, removing key ministers and consolidating key portfolios in a move aimed at stabilising his embattled coalition government. The reshuffle follows the presidential election defeat of Civic Platform candidate and Tusk ally Rafał Trzaskowski, as well as slumping poll numbers that have emboldened junior coalition partners. The centre-right Poland 2050 party pushed for the creation of a deputy prime minister post, while the Polish People's Party (PSL) even suggested replacing Tusk with its leader and defence minister, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz. These demands were ultimately dismissed. Although Tusk insisted that the overhaul would not alter the coalition's 'major goals' since taking power in 2023, the changes mark a clear shift in direction. Justice Minister Adam Bodnar, the architect of Poland's EU-approved rule-of-law plan, is set to leave the government. Although he was praised for unlocking EU cohesion and recovery funds that had been frozen under the PiS-led administration, Bodnar has faced mounting criticism over the slow pace of judicial reform. He will be replaced by Waldemar Żurek, a vocal critic of the judicial changes introduced during the PiS era, who is expected to continue the reform agenda. Tusk also announced that the number of ministries would be reduced from 26 to 21, stating that the goal was to build 'not the biggest government, but the best one.' Two new 'super ministries' were also announced: an energy ministry, which will be led by Miłosz Motyka (PSL); and an economy ministry, which has been added to the portfolio of Finance Minister Andrzej Domański. Despite the shakeup, public confidence remains low. A poll by SW Research for Onet found that 40% of Poles believe the reshuffle will do little to improve the government's image. (cs, de)
Euractiv
03-07-2025
- Politics
- Euractiv
Selective transparency is a threat to our values-based union. Does the EPP care?
Alex Agius Saliba MEP is an S&D negotiator on the Directive on Transparency of Third Country Interest Representation. In times when democracy is under threat globally, the EU should be a beacon of light. Our union is values-based – Europeans are bound by freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law, and respect for human rights. These are enshrined in our treaties. Yet it seems that some of us – most notably the EPP, the largest and most powerful political formation – have forgotten what true democracy means. Without a civic space and a thriving civil society we wouldn't be where we are today, in a free Europe. We need NGOs that push back, hold a mirror to policymakers, and advocate inconvenient truths about climate change, as well as other topics – from the protection of our children online to the influence of business interests in European politics. To weaken this is itself a show of weakness. Still, this is what we see unfolding in this new legislature. First, there was the attack and accusations of NGOs that were working under the LIFE programme (the EU funding instrument for the environment and climate action). This is now evolving into a European Parliament inquiry, even though there is no evidence of wrongdoing. All of which is being done with the support of the extreme right, disregarding the centrist and democratic parties that supported Commission President Von der Leyen. In an EU context where laws are written through compromise, it means something to exchange the centre for the extremes. Against this backdrop comes the sensitive topic of transparency of third country interest representation – a debate that has pitched the progressive and centre-left groups against the centre-right and extreme-right. This proposed directive was a reaction to the Qatar-gate scandal and seeks to illuminate foreign interference in policymaking. From the start, it has been heavily criticised for the chilling effect it can have on civil society by stigmatising NGOs that must register if they receive some of their financing from abroad. It is not only civil society that opposes the proposal; UN special rapporteurs on rights to freedom of peaceful assembly, on freedom of opinion and expression, and on the situation of human rights defenders, co-authored a letter to the European Commission expressing their concerns. They compared the Commission proposal to a foreign agent law such as those seen in Russia and Georgia, as well as that which EU Member State Hungary is working on. If we do not get this directive right, we risk creating an EU-approved template for the suppression of NGOs. If we do not get this directive right, we risk creating an EU-approved template for the suppression of NGOs. To avoid this, the proposal should be enlarged to become a general transparency act for all lobbying. That would include interest representation on behalf of third countries and also address the growing influence of companies through lobbying and advocacy efforts during the policymaking process. Our voters need to know with whom we meet and to whom we listen when writing laws . We have the transparency register at the EU level, but such a directive could address this issue in the different Member States. Yet transparency for all lobbying is difficult for the EPP to accept. With the support of the far right, they shot down the creation of an ethics body that would provide oversight on the EU transparency rules. At the same time, they have gone so far as to propose criminal sanctions for NGOs that fail to register in a third-country interest transparency register. And still they reject any accountability for their own dealings with big business lobbyists. Transparency for some, but not for them. By pushing through their agenda with the help of the far right, transparency has become a highly political issue, undermining the von der Leyen platform. If she demands transparency, she should start by looking at her own record. She has already shown weakness on this front in her dealings with Pfizer in the COVID pandemic. An attack on civil society from her group can backfire. Transparency should be demanded for all – our leaders in particular.
Time Business News
25-06-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
Why Albania Is Becoming a Dental Tourism Hotspot
Choosing a dental clinic abroad is a big decision—but when the balance between affordability and top-tier quality is just right, the choice becomes easier. Albania, once a hidden gem in the Balkans, has now become a rising star in the field of modern dentistry. From preventive treatments to full smile rehabilitations, Albanian dental clinics are equipped with the latest technology, international protocols, and highly trained specialists. One of the most in-demand services among international patients? Dental crowns—especially when combined with aesthetic and restorative dental care. In this article, we'll explore the full scope of dentistry in Albania, with a special focus on dental crowns. You'll learn about procedures, pricing, materials, advantages, and what makes Albania one of the best countries for dental tourism in 2025 and beyond. Why Albania Is Becoming a Dental Tourism Hotspot For decades, patients from the UK, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, and even the U.S. have paid thousands for dental procedures—many of which aren't fully covered by insurance. Dental crowns, implants, bridges, and veneers often require patients to dip deep into their savings. But in Albania, the same procedures—using EU-approved materials and modern techniques—are available for 50–70% less, without compromising safety or results. Patients now arrive in cities like Tirana or Durrës not only for stunning beaches and historic towns but also for five-star dental treatments at a fraction of Western prices. Here's why Albania shines: EU-compliant sterilization and safety protocols Internationally trained dentists and staff State-of-the-art dental clinics with digital imaging, CAD/CAM, and 3D scanning English-speaking professionals and multilingual support No waiting lists Beautiful locations for post-treatment recovery Dentistry in Albania: Services and Standards Whether you're looking for routine checkups or a complex full-mouth rehabilitation, Albania's dental clinics offer a broad range of services. From digital diagnostics and endodontics to smile design and prosthodontics, patients receive treatment aligned with Western European standards. One of the most trusted providers offering access to top-rated dental clinics is the Albanian Health Agency, which helps patients choose the right specialist, manage travel, and ensure all treatments are performed in certified environments. If you're considering dental care abroad, it's worth exploring the full range of dentistry in Albania, including: Dental hygiene and preventive cleanings Cosmetic dentistry (veneers, whitening) Orthodontics (Invisalign, metal braces) Periodontal care Dental implants Root canals Wisdom tooth extractions Dental crowns and bridges Complete smile makeovers These treatments are offered using modern materials like zirconia, lithium disilicate, and ensuring both function and beauty. Dental Crowns: A Reliable and Versatile Solution Let's now turn to one of the most popular and practical dental restorations: the dental crown. What Is a Dental Crown? A dental crown is a custom-made cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth. It restores the tooth's shape, strength, and function while also improving aesthetics. Crowns are used when: A tooth is cracked, broken, or severely decayed A large filling has failed After a root canal treatment As part of a dental bridge To cap a dental implant For cosmetic smile enhancements Modern dental crowns are indistinguishable from natural teeth, especially when made with all-ceramic or zirconia materials. Types of Dental Crowns Offered in Albania Albanian clinics offer a variety of crown options, customized based on patient needs, budget, and cosmetic preferences: 1. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Strong and cost-effective, these crowns have a metal base with porcelain layered on top. They're suitable for back teeth and offer decent aesthetics. 2. Zirconia Crowns Extremely strong and biocompatible, zirconia crowns are ideal for molars and bridges. They resist fractures and blend well with natural teeth. 3. Crowns These are lithium disilicate all-ceramic crowns known for their exceptional translucency and beauty. Perfect for front teeth. 4. Gold Crowns Though less popular for aesthetic reasons, gold crowns are durable and suitable for patients who grind their teeth. Each material has its benefits, and patients are advised based on clinical assessment, bite pattern, and personal expectations. Cost Comparison: Dental Crowns Abroad vs. Albania One of the biggest reasons patients consider Albania for dental crowns is cost. While prices vary depending on the material used and complexity of the case, Albania offers transparent and affordable rates. Country Average Cost per Crown USA $1,000 – $2,500 UK £600 – £1,200 Germany €700 – €1,500 Switzerland CHF 1,200 – CHF 2,000 Albania €150 – €300 Even with travel expenses included, patients can save up to 70% on the total cost. The Process of Getting a Crown in Albania Step 1: Initial Consultation Online consultations are available for international patients. You'll be asked to submit dental X-rays or photos, followed by a quote and treatment plan. Step 2: Travel and Accommodation Once confirmed, the Albanian Health Agency assists with logistics: airport pickup, hotel booking, and clinic coordination. Step 3: Tooth Preparation and Scanning Your dentist prepares the tooth and uses a digital intraoral scanner to design the crown. No messy impressions! Step 4: Crown Fabrication CAD/CAM technology ensures the crown is milled with precision—often within 24–48 hours. Step 5: Fitting and Adjustment The crown is placed, checked for fit and color, and permanently cemented. Step 6: Aftercare You'll receive full guidance on post-care and enjoy a few days of recovery with optional tourism around the Adriatic coast. Who Can Benefit from Dental Crowns? Crowns are incredibly versatile and suitable for: Adults with severely worn or broken teeth Patients completing implant procedures Anyone needing to restore function or bite Individuals undergoing smile design or cosmetic makeovers Patients with deep decay where fillings are no longer effective Your dentist in Albania will perform a full oral assessment and suggest whether crowns are the best solution—or whether veneers, inlays, or bridges are more appropriate. What Makes Albanian Clinics Different? Here's what sets Albanian dental clinics apart: CAD/CAM and 3D Printing: Same-day crown milling and faster prosthetic design. Digital Smile Design (DSD): Preview your smile before treatment begins. Biocompatible Materials: Certified zirconia and ceramic imported from Switzerland or Germany. Personalized Care: One-on-one attention in boutique-style clinics. Full Service Packages: Including hotel, translator, follow-ups, and airport pickup. Unlike large, impersonal clinics in over-touristed medical destinations, Albanian providers offer genuine hospitality and patient-first attention. That's one reason dental crowns in Albania have become a popular and trusted solution for medical travelers. Testimonials and Real Experiences Patients consistently report satisfaction with their treatments in Albania. Here's a testimonial from Sofia, a patient from Sweden: 'I needed four crowns after years of grinding. My dentist in Stockholm quoted me €4,800. I paid just €980 in Albania—flights and hotel included! The results? Incredible. My teeth look better than ever.' Another patient, David from the UK, shared: 'The clinic had all the technology I saw back home, but the team was more welcoming, and I saved a small fortune. The agency handled everything—from appointments to transport. Absolutely worth it.' Aftercare and Guarantee Reputable clinics in Albania offer: Warranties on crowns (1–5 years depending on material) Follow-up support via WhatsApp or Zoom Free repairs or replacements within warranty terms (with proper care) Good oral hygiene, check-ups, and avoiding hard foods ensure your crowns last for years—often more than a decade. Final Thoughts Albania's rise as a dental destination is no accident. With skilled dentists, cutting-edge clinics, and transparent pricing, it offers patients an ideal mix of savings and service. Whether you need a routine filling, a root canal, or full-mouth rehabilitation with dental crowns, Albania is a destination worth considering. Through agencies like Albanian Health Agency, you can access certified clinics, full treatment support, and customized care—all without breaking the bank. For those ready to restore their smile and regain confidence, dentistry in Albania delivers modern, world-class results with the charm of a Mediterranean experience. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Daily Record
12-06-2025
- General
- Daily Record
Massive turnout as Navy's last Falklands warship departs dock for the final time
The Type 82 destroyer was launched in 1969 and was the only one of its kind to be built - and now it is being towed to an EU-approved scrapyard in Turkey after being decommissioned A massive crowd flocked to Portsmouth Harbour this week to bid an emotional farewell to the last Royal Navy ship from the Falklands War. Veterans and the public gathered to see off HMS Bristol as it was towed away on Wednesday, nearly five years after being decommissioned. The Type 82 destroyer is headed for an EU-approved scrapyard in Turkey, where its parts will be recycled by the Defence Recycling & Disposals Team. Chris Howe, from the South Atlantic Medal Association 1982, said: "As HMS Bristol embarks on its final voyage to the scrapyard in Turkey, we pause to reflect on its remarkable and unique legacy". "For many veterans, Bristol was more than a vessel - it was a home, a place of camaraderie, and a symbol of resilience. Its departure marks the end of an era, but its contributions to our history and the memories of those who served aboard will endure. "We honour all who sailed in her and bid HMS Bristol a respectful farewell." First commissioned in March 1973, HMS Bristol initially was designed to escort an aircraft carrier that was never built, making it the only warship of its class to enter service. During the Falklands conflict, it led a group of ships to provide reinforcements before joining the carrier battle task group as an air defence destroyer, reports the Express. Following the conflict, the Bristol briefly served as the flagship of the Royal Naval fleet in the region. In 1987, it was converted into a training ship, but an explosion in its boiler led to its repurposing as a harbour training vessel. The ship was eventually decommissioned in October 2020 after 48 years of service. Alistair Hughes, the head of DRDT, outlined the process to Force News: "Recycling of ships at the end of their hull life is routine business for the Royal Navy. "Our aim is to achieve maximum value for money for defence in an environmentally compliant manner - HMS Bristol is a fitting example of this after her many dedicated years of service."
Associated Press
20-03-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Aspire Biopharma Holdings, Inc., Contract Manufacturer, Glatt Air Techniques, Inc., has Completed Its First Good Manufacturing Practice ('GMP') Clinical Batch of Pharmaceutical Grade Oral Mucosal Fast Acting Formulation of Aspirin
Subsequent phase involves completion of chemistry, manufacturing, and controls (CMC) testing for data to support FDA submission Company expects to commence bioavailability study in April 2025 Aspire intends to request 'fast track' approval on FDA application for its high dose aspirin product HUMACAO, PR AND NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / March 20, 2025 / Aspire Biopharma Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:ASBP) ('Aspire' or the 'Company'), a developer of a multi-faceted patent pending drug delivery technology, today announced that it its contract manufacturer, Glatt Air Techniques, Inc., part of Glatt Group, a vertically integrated pharmaceutical services company with FDA- and EU-approved sites, has completed its first Good Manufacturing Practice ('GMP') Clinical Batch of its pharmaceutical-grade oral mucosal formulation of aspirin that utilizes Aspire's fast-acting formulation. Aspire's GMP extracts are set to be administered in a bioavailability study in healthy human volunteers in April 2025. Aspire's lead product candidate, high-dose sublingual aspirin, is a granular or powder formulation of a soluble, Ph neutral, fast-acting aspirin designed to address cardiology emergencies and pain management. Aspire believes the benefits of 'rapid absorption' aspirin include the potential to quickly address cardiac incidents; allow high dose absorption for pain management including fast headache relief, post-surgery, cancer pain management, and general pain relief. The benefits of 'rapid absorption' are to provide nearly instant treatment impact and high dose absorption. The Company's patent pending delivery system includes components specifically formulated to allow rapid sublingual absorption of drugs into the blood stream, thus by-passing the gastrointestinal tract, and potentially provide an improved treatment outcome. 'This marks another important milestone for Aspire,' commented Kraig Higginson, Chief Executive Officer of Aspire. 'We have been collaborating with Glatt Air Techniques since 2021 with the ultimate goal of building a high-quality, cost-effective manufacturing solution for our lead product candidate, high-dose sublingual aspirin. This cooperation enables Aspire to advance our key programs, centered around our patent pending technology, so that we can facilitate delivery of high-quality, safe, and effective therapeutics to individuals seeking relief from pain or when the need arises in cardiology emergencies.' Glatt Air Techniques has conducted testing and manufacturing of Aspire's GMP Clinical Batch of its oral mucosal fast acting formulation of aspirin under both Pharmaceutical Inspection Co-operation Scheme Good Manufacturing Practice ('PIC/S GMP') and the United States Food and Drug Administration's Current Good Manufacturing Practice regulations. Following release of the GMP Clinical Batch by Glatt Air Techniques, Aspire intends to initiate the preparation of Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls ('CMC') information and conduct clinical trials supporting its planned FDA submission. Aspirin Product Development and Clinical Trials Key Potential Features of the Aspire Platform About Aspire Biopharma, Inc. Headquartered in Humacao, Puerto Rico, Aspire Biopharma has developed a disruptive technology through a Novel Soluble Formulation which addresses emergencies, drug efficacy, dosage management, and response time. For more information, please visit Safe Harbor Statement Certain statements made in this communication are 'forward-looking statements' within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may generally be identified by the use of words such as 'estimate,' 'projects,' 'expects,' 'anticipates,' 'forecasts,' 'plans,' 'intends,' 'believes,' 'seeks,' 'may,' 'will,' 'would,' 'should,' 'future,' 'propose,' 'potential,' 'target,' 'goal,' 'objective,' 'outlook' and variations of these words or similar expressions (or the negative versions of such words or expressions) are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the financial position, business strategy and the plans and objectives of management for future operations. These statements are based on various assumptions, whether or not identified in this communication, and on the current expectations of Aspire's management and are not predictions of actual performance. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as and must not be relied on by any investor as a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside the control of the parties, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law. Aspire Biopharma Holdings, Inc. Contact TraDigital IR
