Defence & Industry: EDGE, the Abu Dhabi defence group, launched EDGE Europe as a fully European commercial enterprise headquartered in Paris, with a Paris government-engagement base and a Bordeaux engineering/manufacturing hub aimed at speeding up sovereign capability through a technology-first, partner-driven model. Energy Diplomacy: Japan and Britain are weighing a framework to collaborate on offshore wind, with leaders also expected to discuss energy security, critical-mineral export controls, and next-gen nuclear and AI/semiconductors. Italy Labour & Procurement Risk: Italian prosecutors are investigating Caddell Construction over alleged labour exploitation tied to a $350m US consulate build in Milan, where foreign workers reportedly received under €2 an hour after deductions. EU Security Mood: A new ECFR survey finds only 11% of Europeans view the US as an ally, pushing support for more European defence autonomy (Italy remains split). EU Energy Policy: The European Commission cleared Italy’s €23bn renewable electricity aid scheme to add 37GW capacity by 2030. Tech & Design: STARCHIUM pitched its AI architectural design automation tool, ArchiPilot, to EU ambassadors in South Korea, including Italy, as it targets expansion into Europe and beyond. Markets: European blue-chip margins are set for their first expansion in years, helped by higher energy prices and AI infrastructure demand.