BRUSSELS, Belgium—European Union leaders gather in Rome this week to proclaim their “common future” on the bloc’s 60th birthday, despite a wave of crises including Britain’s looming exit from the bloc. Perhaps seeking divine inspiration to help with their troubles, the EU leaders will have a special audience with Pope Francis at the Vatican on Friday afternoon. “It is no secret that the historical moment we are facing requires deeper and more solid reflection on the challenges for the union,” Tusk, a former Polish premier, said. The rise of nationalist and populist parties poses a particular threat to the EU’s dream of itself, particularly in Poland, Tusk’s homeland. Poland has now warned that it will not accept a “multi-speed” Europe that would leave some countries behind while the Franco-German “engine” of Europe powers ahead.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer March 21, 2017 05:15 UTC