Breaking news

Von Der Leyen: The EU Seeks Constructive Dialogue With The US But Stands Ready To Respond

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 4, 2025

The European Union is prepared to engage in a constructive dialogue with the United States while maintaining a firm stance against any unfair or arbitrary targeting, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated at a press conference following the informal European Council meeting in Brussels. The summit, which focused on defense and transatlantic relations, underscored the EU’s commitment to cooperation but also its readiness to act if necessary.

Strengthening Transatlantic Cooperation

Addressing reporters, von der Leyen stressed that transatlantic cooperation remains a high priority, especially in the face of evolving geopolitical uncertainties. “We all know that much is at stake,” she remarked, emphasizing the need for a pragmatic and realistic partnership with Washington.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

“We discussed how to strengthen a very realistic cooperation with the US,” she noted, adding that the EU remains open to dialogue but is also prepared for potential challenges in its relationship with Washington.

“If the EU is targeted unfairly or arbitrarily, we will respond decisively,” she affirmed, signaling a firm stance against any economic or political measures that could disproportionately impact Europe.

Concerns Over US Tariffs

Von der Leyen also addressed US trade policies, particularly tariffs imposed on Mexico, Canada, and China. She criticized these measures, stating that “nothing positive comes out of this.”

“Tariffs increase business costs, harm workers and consumers, create unnecessary disruptions in the economy, and drive up inflation,” she explained, highlighting the potential negative ripple effects on global trade.

The EU’s Strategy Moving Forward

Despite potential tensions, the European Commission President reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to “productive discussions” with the US, stressing that dialogue must be conducted “in a timely manner.”

At the same time, von der Leyen emphasized the need for Europe to focus on its own economic resilience. “We have to do our job and focus on our own challenges—boosting and improving our competitiveness,” she stated, reinforcing the EU’s strategy of strengthening internal economic foundations while navigating external uncertainties.The message from Brussels is clear: the EU remains committed to collaboration with the US but will not hesitate to defend its interests if necessary. As global economic and political landscapes continue to shift, the strength of transatlantic relations will be tested in the months ahead.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Cyprus’ Strong Youth Employment Rate Still Does Not Guarantee Early Independence

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

September 16, 2026

Young people in Cyprus have a relatively high employment rate, but they leave the parental home later than the EU average, according to Eurostat data.

Cypriots left home at an average age of 27 in 2025, compared with 26.3 years across the EU. At the same time, 72.3% of people aged 20 to 29 in Cyprus were employed, well above the EU average of 65.5%.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Strong Employment Does Not Mean Early Independence

Only nine countries recorded higher youth employment rates than Cyprus. Iceland led at 85.3%, followed by the Netherlands at 84%, Malta at 82.1%, Switzerland at 78.3% and Germany at 77%.

Norway recorded 76.5%, Ireland 76.1%, Denmark 74.8% and Austria 74.6%. Eurostat said countries where young people leave home earlier generally tend to have higher youth employment rates.

Southern Europe Sees Later Moves

Finland had the lowest average age for leaving the parental home at 21.4 years, followed by Denmark at 21.8 and Estonia and Lithuania at 22.7. Croatia recorded the highest average at 31.5 years, followed by Greece and Slovakia at 30.9. Spain and Italy both stood at 30.2 years.

Across the EU, the average has remained close to 26 since 2002, rising only slightly from 26.2 years in 2024 to 26.3 years in 2025.

Cyprus Labour Market Is Cooling

The figures come as Cyprus’ labor market shows some signs of easing, although demand for workers remains relatively strong by European standards.

Separate Eurostat data showed Cyprus had the EU’s largest annual decline in its job vacancy rate in the second quarter of 2026. The rate fell to 2.6% from 3.3% a year earlier, but remained above the EU average of 2.0% and the euro area average of 2.1%.

Cost Of Living Remains A Factor

Housing and other living costs can also affect how quickly young workers establish independent households. Eurostat reported that Cyprus’ household consumption price level was 89.2% of the EU average in 2025.

A relatively lower overall price level does not eliminate affordability pressures for people on modest incomes. For younger workers, the issue can be whether wages are sufficient to cover rent, utilities, food and other basic expenses.

Cyprus therefore combines relatively high youth employment with a later transition to independent living, suggesting that access to work and the ability to afford a separate household do not always move together.