Eurotopics.net

In the wake of massive protests, French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe has presented a watered-down version of the fiercely criticised plans to reform the country's retirement system. For now, the retirement age is to remain at 62 years, a 1,000-euro minimum pension will be introduced, and a standardised system is to replace the multiple special plans. The media are divided over whether this will calm the people's anger.

Britain is holding a general election today, Thursday, after Prime Minister Boris Johnson called for a snap election in October in response to parliament's rejection of his Brexit plans. Although a majority of the population say they don't trust him, Johnson is slightly ahead of Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn in the polls. British voters face a tough decision, commentators say.

The Saudi oil company Aramco made its stock market debut on Tuesday and has replaced Microsoft and Apple as the most valuable company in the world. Saudi Arabia plans to use the proceeds from the sale of the state-owned company's shares to finance economic reforms aimed at reducing its dependence on oil. Commentators have their doubts about whether investors will play along.

A Czech man with a history of mental illness killed six people and wounded others in a shooting spree at a hospital in the city of Ostrava on Tuesday. The motives of the attacker, who killed himself after the attack, remain unclear. The country is in shock and discusses whether its gun laws should be tightened.

Britain will elect a new House of Commons tomorrow, Thursday. Prime Minister Boris Johnson called a snap election in October after parliament rejected his Brexit schedule. Although a majority of the people say they don't trust Johnson he is ahead of Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn in the polls. Europe's media discuss whether he has enough support to secure an election victory.