European Patent Push: Moldova became the 40th member of the European Patent Organisation, with European patent applications automatically designating the country from 1 June—boosting innovation protection across the region. EU Tech Sovereignty: The bloc is preparing far-reaching rules to reduce reliance on US cloud providers and Chinese chips, aiming to cut “kill switch” risk and strengthen local capacity. AI Infrastructure Race: SoftBank plans €75bn for AI data centres in France (including €45bn by 2031 in Hauts-de-France), as markets chase AI-driven growth. Energy Shock Watch: Oil prices rose on fears of escalation in the Iran–Lebanon conflict, adding pressure to European costs and borrowing. Labour & Platforms: The ILO is close to setting global ground rules for gig workers, targeting fair pay and safe conditions for platform workers. Trade Deal Update: India–Oman CEPA is now in force, granting duty-free access to most tariff lines and expanding market access for Indian exporters. France Economy: INSEE reports France’s real GDP slipped 0.1% QoQ in Q1 2026, with weaker exports and consumption. Weather Disruptions: Serbia and parts of the Balkans face severe weather alerts, with heavy downpours and thunderstorms expected.