Business

Diplomatic mission spat increases UK-EU tensions

Published

4 years ago

May 24, 2020

Diplomatic mission spat increases UK-EU tensions

The British government is in a fresh stand-off with Brussels over delays in granting full diplomatic status to the EU’s representation in London.

Senior EU officials said moves to grant the bloc’s delegation the status of a full diplomatic mission under the Vienna Convention — which were presumed to be a formality once the UK had agreed a withdrawal agreement last October — appear to have got bogged down.

The dispute between London and Brussels comes as EU-UK negotiations on the two sides’ future relationship grow increasingly strained, with a sharp exchange of letters this week in which EU negotiator Michel Barnier warned that talks were at risk of “stalemate”.

The negotiations between the Foreign Office (FCO) and the EU’s foreign policy arm, the European External Action Service (EEAS), are separate to the future relationship talks but risk further straining relations between the two sides.

Peter Stano, an EU spokesperson for foreign affairs and security policy, said the EU’s “status in external relations and its subsequent diplomatic status is amply recognised by countries and international organisations around the world.”

“We expect the United Kingdom to treat the EU delegation accordingly and without delay,” he said.

EU officials were told at a briefing on May 8 that the bloc had hoped to conclude talks on the status of the EU’s mission in London last year, but that the British government had delayed an agreement, citing its lack of a parliamentary majority to push through relevant legislation.

However talks were still stalled after Boris Johnson won his 80-seat majority last December and had not progressed when the coronavirus crisis struck in February, further delaying discussions.

The matter needs to be settled at the latest by the end of Britain’s post-Brexit transition period — a standstill arrangement that preserves much of the UK and EU’s pre-existing relationship, and which expires at the end of this year.

There is added political sensitivity for London because Europe House, the EU delegation’s current headquarters, is located at 32 Smith Square — the headquarters of the Conservative party until 2003.

Leading Eurosceptic MPs, including Conservative leader of the Commons, Jacob Rees-Mogg, have suggested that Brussels might hand back the politically iconic building, which is inextricably linked in the minds of the Tory party faithful with Margaret Thatcher’s three election victories.

EEAS officials were told in the May 8 meeting that talks had now resumed and that there was now “no reason why this should be a problem”.

But a second EU diplomat characterised the talks as “stuck”, adding that the UK side was apparently delaying the granting of full diplomatic status pending an agreement on the wider future relationship.

All of the EU’s 143 diplomatic missions around the world currently have full diplomatic status, although this was used a political pawn by the Trump administration in January 2019 when the EU ambassador was dropped down the diplomatic order of precedence amid heightened trade tensions between Washington and Brussels.

The EU argues that full diplomatic status should be automatic, but a UK government spokesman said only that discussions were continuing to decide the “appropriate arrangements” for the delegation.

“Now we have left the EU, discussions continue with the EU on the appropriate arrangements for the EU delegation in the UK when the transition period ends on 31 December 2021,” the spokesperson said.

However Mr Stano added that the British government was “well aware” that EU missions abroad were treated as equivalent to those of nation states and the UK had supported this position when it was a member of the bloc.

“Nothing has changed since the UK’s exit from the European Union to justify any change in stance on the UK’s part,” he said. “The status of the EU delegation in London is not part of the negotiations on a future agreement with the UK.”

(Note: This is a Article Automatically Generated Through Syndication, Here is The Original Source

Net Worth

Stephen M. Ross Net Worth 2024: How Much is the Chairperson of The Related Companies Worth?

Published

13 hours ago

May 2, 2024

Vishnu Chaudhary

Stephen M. Ross Net Worth 2024: How Much is the Chairperson of The Related Companies Worth?

Who is Stephen M. Ross?

Stephen M. Ross, the Chairperson of The Related Companies, is a distinguished figure in the real estate sector, renowned for his significant contributions and profound impact. Born on May 10th, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, Ross embarked on his journey into real estate at a young age, demonstrating remarkable diligence and entrepreneurial spirit. Despite initially pursuing a career as a tax attorney, Ross soon discovered his genuine passion for real estate investment, laying the foundation for his illustrious career.

Stephen M. Ross Career

Ross’s career trajectory is marked by pioneering ventures and transformative projects. In 1972, he founded The Related Companies, which initially focused on subsidized low and moderate-income apartments. Over the years, Ross transitioned to higher-profile projects, including the iconic Hudson Yards development, valued at over $7 billion. His visionary approach and strategic partnerships have cemented his reputation as a prominent figure within the real estate industry.

Stephen M. Ross Net Worth

As of 2024, according to Celebrity Net Worth, Stephen M. Ross’s net worth stands at an impressive $10 billion, solidifying his status as one of the wealthiest individuals globally. Ross’s wealth accumulation is attributed to his unparalleled success as a real estate mogul, with an estimated annual income of nearly $700 million derived from royalties on his diverse property holdings. His continued involvement in the real estate sector, with ongoing projects in New Jersey and Florida, further contributes to his substantial net worth.

Stephen M. Ross Age

Currently, Stephen M. Ross is 83 years old, born on May 10th, 1940. Despite his age, Ross remains actively engaged in his professional pursuits, demonstrating resilience and dedication to his craft.

Stephen M. Ross Family: Wife and Children

Ross’s personal life is characterized by familial bonds and enduring relationships. He is happily married to Kara Ross and is the proud father of four children. Ross’s commitment to family values underscores his holistic approach to life and business.

Stephen M. Ross Height and Weight

Physically, Stephen M. Ross stands at a height of 6 feet 2 inches (1.88m) and maintains a healthy body weight of around 72 kg. Despite his busy schedule, Ross prioritizes his health and well-being, engaging in activities such as volleyball and tennis.

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Net Worth

Mike Markkula Net Worth 2024: How Much is the Former CEO of Apple Worth?

Published

13 hours ago

May 2, 2024

Vishnu Chaudhary

Mike Markkula Net Worth 2024: How Much is the Former CEO of Apple Worth?

Who is Mike Markkula?

Mike Markkula, born Armas Clifford “Mike” Markkula Jr. on February 11, 1942, in Los Angeles, California, is an American entrepreneur renowned for his pivotal role in the early days of Apple Inc. After graduating from the University of Southern California with degrees in electrical engineering, Markkula amassed considerable wealth through stock options while working at Fairchild Semiconductor and Intel.

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Mike Markkula Career

Markkula’s career trajectory took a significant turn in 1977 when he was introduced to Steve Jobs by Venture Capitalist Don Valentine. Recognizing the immense potential of the Apple II computer, Markkula became the company’s first major angel investor, providing $250,000 in funding. He subsequently served as Apple’s CEO from 1981 to 1983, overseeing critical phases in the company’s growth and development.

Mike Markkula’s Net Worth

As of 2024, according to Celebrity Net Worth, Mike Markkula boasts an estimated net worth of $1.2 billion. His wealth stems from astute investments, particularly in Apple Inc., where he played a foundational role as an early investor and executive.

Mike Markkula Age

Born on February 11, 1942, Mike Markkula is currently [age] years old.

Mike Markkula Family: Wife and Children

Markkula is married to Linda, and together they have made significant real estate investments, including properties in Carmel Valley, Woodside, and Hawaii. They have engaged in philanthropy, with notable donations to Santa Clara University’s Markkula Center for Applied Ethics.

Mike Markkula Height and Weight

Unfortunately, information regarding Mike Markkula’s height and weight is not readily available.

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Business

Sundar Pichai Net Worth 2024: How Much is the CEO of Google Worth?

Published

1 day ago

May 1, 2024

Vishnu Chaudhary

Sundar Pichai Net Worth 2024: How Much is the CEO of Google Worth?

Who is Sundar Pichai?

Sundar Pichai, born on June 10, 1972, in Madurai, India, is a prominent figure in the tech industry, renowned as the CEO of Alphabet Inc. and its subsidiary Google LLC. With an educational background in materials science and engineering, Sundar’s journey from humble beginnings in Chennai to the helm of one of the world’s leading multinational companies is an inspiration to many.

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Sundar Pichai Career

Sundar’s career trajectory is marked by notable achievements and leadership roles. Beginning as a materials engineer, he gained experience in product management at Applied Materials and management consulting at McKinsey & Company. In 2004, Sundar joined Google, where his strategic insights and innovative contributions led to significant advancements, including the development of Google Chrome, Android, and Google Drive. His ascent within the company culminated in his appointment as CEO in 2015, overseeing Google’s transition into Alphabet Inc.

Sundar Pichai’s Net Worth

As of 2024, Sundar Pichai’s net worth is estimated to exceed $1.66 Billion, primarily attributed to his role as CEO of Alphabet Inc. and his ownership of approximately 520,668 shares of Alphabet Inc. stock. His remarkable leadership and strategic vision have propelled Google’s growth and innovation, contributing to his substantial financial success.

Sundar Pichai Age

As of 2023, Sundar Pichai is 50 years old, having been born on June 10, 1972.

Sundar Pichai Family: Wife and Children

Sundar Pichai is married to Anjali Pichai, whom he met during his college years at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kharagpur. They share a deep bond, enduring a period of long distance before marrying and relocating to the United States. Together, they have two children, Kavya and Kiran, and prioritize maintaining a balanced family life despite Sundar’s demanding career.