10/07/2020 (Agence Europe) – On Thursday 9 July, MEPs approved by an overwhelming majority (684 votes in favour, seven against and three abstentions) the Interinstitutional Agreement (see EUROPE 12515/6) between the European Parliament and the EU Council to extend the collection of support for European Citizens' Initiatives (ECIs) that were ongoing on 11 March 2020 by six months, due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. For collections of statements of support taking place between 11 March and 11 September 2020, the maximum collection period will be extended until 11 September 2021. Member States may request an extension of the verification period (from one to three months) in the event that they cannot complete the process on time. The European institutions may postpone the organisation of meetings with ECI organisers and public hearings until the public health situation permits. (PH)