Eurotopics.net

At their mini-summit on Monday in Versailles, the leaders of France, Germany, Italy and Spain spoke out in favour of a multi-speed Europe. The Spanish press welcomes the fact that Spain's Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy was present at the meeting. Commentators from other states, however, see good reasons for their countries not being included in Europe's leadership ranks.

The prime ministers of the four Visegrád countries have complained that Western companies are selling inferior goods under the same brand names in their countries. Laboratory tests have confirmed this, they say, demanding that the EU Commission should ensure uniform standards in the single market. In certain countries of Eastern Europe, however, the whole debate fails to take account of the reality of the situation, commentators observe.

In the row over cancelled appearances of Turkish politicians in Germany Turkey's President Erdoğan has accused the German authorities of using Nazi practices. Some journalists harshly condemn Erdoğan's provocations and say the president has gone too far. Pro-government Turkish media angrily counter that flimsy excuses are being used in Germany to prevent AKP politicians from campaigning.

In reaction to the arrest of Deniz Yücel, Turkey correspondent for Die Welt newspaper, several German politicians have demanded an entry ban for Turkish President Erdoğan, who wants to campaign for his referendum in Germany in March. The 43-year-old reporter is accused of spreading propaganda for a terrorist association. What are Ankara's motives and how should Berlin react?

EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker plans to present his ideas for the future of Europe today in preparation for the EU summit at the end of March. Last week he endorsed German Chancellor Angela Merkel's proposal for a multi-speed Europe. Commentators take a critical view of the idea.