Eurotopics.net

The Catalans will elect a new regional parliament on Sunday. Now the parties that advocate independence for Catalonia have signed a joint manifesto affirming that they will not form a coalition with the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE). The latter, however, not only govern in Madrid but are also leading the polls in Catalonia. Even separatist commentators shake their heads in dismay.

Even after the row between the EU and Astrazeneca has for the most part been settled, criticism of Europe's approach to acquiring vaccines continues. Commission President von der Leyen has admitted mistakes, but defended the common procurement strategy. The commentaries in Europe's press reflect the controversy.

Companies on the brink of bankruptcy, citizens on the verge of exhaustion: the strict pandemic regulations that have been in place for months are taking a serious toll and prompting urgent calls for an easing of the measures, especially in areas where infection rates are falling. But politicians are hesitant - and often make decisions behind closed doors. However, this isn't the only reason why journalists are critical of the decision-makers' response to the crisis.

Turkey's President Erdoğan presented a new national space programme on Tuesday. Turks will fly to the moon for the Republic's hundredth birthday in 2023, he said.

Germany's Christian Democratic Union (CDU) is to elect its new leader on Saturday. Europe's press stresses the significance of the decision beyond party politics and Germany's borders. Commentators are doubtful that any of the three candidates has what it takes to succeed not just current CDU leader Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, but also Angela Merkel as the new chancellor.