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  • MIL-OSI United Nations: From Declaration to action: Antimicrobial resistance initiatives centre stage at Jeddah conference

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Health

    Antimicrobial resistance initiatives are back in the spotlight as stakeholders gather in Jeddah, on the Saudi Arabian coast, a few months after a high-level meeting in New York led to the unanimous adoption of a political declaration by the UN General Assembly. With that declaration the 193-member body pledged concerted action against the under-recognized but serious health concern.

    Concerned parties from around the world gathered on Thursday at the Ritz-Carlton in the Red Sea city ahead of the 4th Global Ministerial Conference on AMR for a session focused on non-state actors – non-governmental organizations, private sector, academia and others – to work across sectors to address “one of the most urgent global health threats and development challenges”.

    The conference is expected to bring together representatives of 57 states, including 48 Ministers and Vice-Ministers, and more than 450 participants from leading international and civil society organizations, including UN offices and agencies.

    The aim is to move from “declaration to implementation” through multisectoral partnerships in the combat against antimicrobial resistance, which has had disastrous effects on health, economies, and societies, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

    A silent pandemic

    When bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites stop responding to antimicrobial medications, it’s known as antimicrobial resistance. Drug resistance raises the risk of disease transmission, serious sickness, disability, and death by making antibiotics and other antimicrobial medications ineffective and making it harder or impossible to treat infections.

    In the political declaration adopted by the General Assembly, world leaders agreed to reduce the estimated five million human deaths associated with AMR annually by 10 per cent by 2030. They further called for sustainable national financing and $100 million in catalytic funding, to help achieve a target of at least 60 percent of countries having funded national action plans on AMR by 2030.

    It also formalized the Quadripartite Joint Secretariat on Antimicrobial Resistance, which includes the UN World Health Organization (WHO), the UN Development Programme (UNEP) and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) along with the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH), as the central coordinating structure to support the global response.

    Minsitry of Health/Saudi Arabia

    Opening session of AMR, the urgent global health and socioeconomic crisis that threatens all age groups in all regions, especially with low- and middle-income countries most affected.

    Saudi Minister of Health Fahad Al-Jalajel has stressed the need to adopt a “One Health” approach that systematically addresses the obstacles hindering progress as AMR impacts humans, animals, and the environmental alike. “The Jeddah meeting is a crucial opportunity to strengthen our collective global response to the risks of this growing, silent pandemic”, he has said.

    The meeting will address priorities, including surveillance and stewardship, capacity building, funding provision, governance, innovation, research and development.

    UN News/Nabil Midani

    Political commitment at the highest level

    UN News is in Jeddah covering this global conference and spoke to Kathrine Urbaez, Executive Director of the Geneva-based non-governmental organization (NGO), Health Diplomacy Alliance.

    The Alliance focuses on advocacy and diplomacy to advance global health issues. She told us that the COVID-19 pandemic has proven the vital importance of ‘One Health’ policies and of garnering cooperation and awareness across sectors and stakeholders.

    Ms. Urbaez underscored the need to move from commitments to practical actions and added that the General Assembly’s Political Declaration and the Jeddah Conference are great steps in the right direction, and what is needed is to ensure that the political momentum continues. The Executive Director insisted that implementing commitments is feasible if there is a political will to do so, and establishing “a monitoring and accountability mechanism” is key.

    She added: “We have to see antimicrobial resistance from a really holistic global health perspective. I think it is important to have the involvement of politicians at the highest level, not only Ministers of Health, Environment, Agriculture or Finance. We really need political commitment to advance AMR policies and to engage in the one health approach”.

    More than a health threat

    The complexity of the issue, a lack of funding, and political will in some nations “with the competing health issues that governments have to grapple with” have made it difficult to move from policy documents to action, according to Julian Nyamupachitu, Deputy Director of ReAct Africa, a global network that works to catalyze action on AMR primarily in low- and middle-income countries.

    UN News/Nabil Midani

    As countries are reviewing and weighing new national plans, Ms. Nyamupachitu said ReAct Africa is helping them prioritize activities that are more practical, and use tools that are available to them to help inform their policy making, such as the WHO costing and budgeting tool.

    The Deputy Director said the Political Declaration was an improvement over its 2016 predecessor, but it would have been “good to see commitments, and not just targets” on funding.

    She said the theme “moving from declaration to implementation” is very timely and she hoped to see a serious commitment by Ministers in Jeddah.

    “I believe awareness has been raised. They have appreciated the statistics that have been shared. This is indeed a global health threat, not just affecting the health sector, not just affecting the agriculture, environment, and animal sectors, but it’s actually an economic problem as well”, she added.

    ‘The antibiotics market is broken’

    Michiel Peters is the Secretariat Representative of the AMR Industry Alliance, which includes companies and industry organizations in the fields of research and development (R&D), pharmaceuticals, generics, biotech and diagnostics. He also represents the broader private sector on the AMR Multi-Stakeholder Partnership Platform Steering Committee, which was established and is facilitated by the four organizations supporting the global response.

    UN News/Nabil Midani

    Mr. Peters said antibiotics are “fundamentally different” than any other product brought to market “where your goal would be to sell as much of it as possible”. He said with antibiotics, the goal is to get the “right drug to the right person when they need it”, which is not always a lucrative business. He also noted that developing antibiotics requires an “incredible amount of time and investment” and in many cases the drugs don’t reach the market, and so “the marketplace for antibiotics is broken”.

    Mr. Peter’s added that there is a serious lack of government funding and incentives for antibiotic R&D, but the larger concern is that “the researchers actually needed to do the science in the laboratories are leaving this field”, as opposed to diseases like cancer, for example, where research is strong.

    The private sector representative said a lot of progress was made since the first High-Level Meeting on AMR took place in 2016, but there is still so much more to do and “nobody can tackle this problem alone”. 

    He said the Jeddah conference and the plenary meeting for the Multi-Stakeholder Partnership Platform, running in parallel on the closing day, are both very important to see “not just what we can put on paper, but what it is that we are actually going to do”.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Will COP29 deliver the trillions needed to tackle the man-made climate crisis?

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Climate and Environment

    The latest round of UN climate negotiations, COP29, opened this past Monday in Baku, Azerbaijan, following a year that broke multiple extreme heat records and saw widespread climate-driven chaos – from wildfires to destructive floods and hurricanes – hit nearly every corner of the world. A major increase in financial commitments to assist vulnerable countries in mitigating and adapting to climate impacts is the main goal of this year’s conference, which has been dubbed the “climate finance COP.”

    Can countries agree on a new climate finance target?

    The UN’s main climate science body, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), has issued increasingly dire warnings about the accelerating pace of global warming. To limit temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, substantial investments are needed in clean energy technologies, infrastructure, and adaptation measures.

    Developing countries, particularly small island nations and least developed countries, are disproportionately vulnerable to climate impacts like sea level rise, extreme weather events, and droughts. They require significant financial support to build resilience, transition to low-carbon economies, and compensate for loss and damage.

    The midway point at COP29 comes as leaders are heading to Brazil for next week’s G20 summit. 

    Round-the-clock negotiations in Baku on the always thorny topic of money are reportedly moving slowly. Delegates from developing nations are calling for more and faster progress on new funding for loss and damage and accelerated clean energy goals.

    Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which convenes the annual COP meetings, had a message for G20 leaders early on Saturday before they hopped on their planes for Rio de Janeiro:

    “Climate finance progress outside of [the UNFCCC process] is equally crucial, and the G20’s role is mission-critical…the global climate crisis should be order of business Number One, in Rio next week. The [G20] Summit must send crystal clear global signals. That more grant and concessional finance will be available; that further reform of multilateral development banks is a top priority, and G20 governments – as their shareholders and taskmasters – will keep pushing for more reforms.”

    Finally, the UN climate chief said that “in turbulent times and a fracturing world, G20 leaders must signal loud and clear that international cooperation is still the best and only chance humanity has to survive global heating. There is no other way.”

    Earlier in the week, Mr. Stiell gave a stark assessment of the stakes: Worsening climate change and the socioeconomic damage it inflicts mean “billions of people simply cannot afford for their government to leave COP29 without a global climate finance goal.”

    “So, for leaders here and back in capitals – make it clear that you expect a strong set of outcomes. Tell your negotiators – skip the posturing – and move directly to finding common ground,” he said.

    In his opening remarks on Tuesday to the World Leaders Climate Action Summit, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said that 2024 has been “a masterclass in climate destruction.” He emphasized the critical role of climate finance in addressing the crisis: “The world must pay up, or humanity will pay the price…climate finance is not charity, it’s an investment. Climate action is not optional, it’s an imperative.”

    Mr. Stiell later echoed this sentiment: “Let’s dispense with the idea that climate finance is charity. An ambitious new climate finance goal is entirely in the self-interest of every single nation, including the largest and wealthiest.”

    Beyond the $100 billion pledge

    In 2009 at the 15th Conference of UNFCCC Parties (COP15) in Copenhagen, developed countries committed to mobilizing $100 billion per year in climate finance by 2020. While this target was finally met in 2022, it has been criticized as insufficient and delayed.

    At COP29, negotiators are aiming to set a new, more ambitious target for climate finance. Developing countries are pushing for a significantly higher figure, potentially in the trillions of dollars per year. However, discussions on the exact amount and the modalities for delivering the funds remain contentious.

    An early breakthrough on carbon

    A significant breakthrough on the opening day at COP29 was the adoption of Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, paving the way for a UN-backed global carbon market. This market will facilitate the trading of carbon credits, incentivizing countries to reduce emissions and invest in climate-friendly projects.

    James Grabert, head of the Mitigation Division at UN Climate Change, the shorthand by which the UNFCCC secretariat is known, said that this historic agreement will provide countries with a “valuable tool” to meet their climate targets and drive sustainable development.

    With COP29 coming on the heels of presidential polls in the United States, impact of a new US Administration on global climate action has been on the minds of many in the corridors of Baku Centre.

    At a press conference, President Hilda Heine of the Marshall Islands and Ireland’s Environment Minister Eamon Ryan stressed that despite worries about a US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, the combat against climate change is a global effort that requires global cooperation towards a better economy for all. The two leaders also cited the ongoing progress by states and cities as reasons for hope.

    UNFCCC/Kiara Worth

    Around the clock negotiations are underway at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, on a new global climate finance deal.

    A just transition, not a ‘stampede of greed’

    Before heading to the G20 summit in Brazil, Mr. Guterres held several climate-related meetings, including one on critical minerals essential for renewable energy technologies like solar panels, wind turbines, and electric vehicles.

    These minerals, such as copper, lithium, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements, are crucial for the transition away from fossil fuels, with demand expected to triple by 2030.

    Many of these minerals are found in Africa, which could benefit financially. However, there’s concern about a “resource curse,” where countries where these resources are located don’t benefit.

    Mr. Guterres emphasized managing demand without triggering a “stampede of greed” that exploits and crushes the poor but instead ensures local communities benefit.

    Dario Liguti from the UN Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) also highlighted the need for “sustainable exploitation of these minerals”, especially in emerging markets, to protect the environment and support local communities. In April, the UN chief formed a High-Level Panel to ensure countries and communities with these resources benefit the most.

    © UN Office for Partnerships

    Youth activism and climate justice

    Young people around the world are increasingly demanding climate action and climate justice. They are calling on governments and businesses to take bold steps to reduce emissions, protect vulnerable communities, and create a sustainable future for all.

    After meeting with youth representatives and climate advocates at COP29, the Secretary-General posted on social media that he understood their frustrations: “You have every right to be angry. I am angry too…because we are on the verge of the climate abyss, and I don’t see enough urgency or political will to address the emergency.”

    Basmallah Rawash, a Climate Activist with Care About Climate, said, “We are not the ones that are supposed to carry the burden of mitigation. We are not the ones who have caused this, but we are the ones that will carry the burden of the biggest struggle at the moment.”

    The decisions made in Baku will have far-reaching consequences for generations to come. It is imperative that negotiators reach an ambitious agreement that delivers the finance needed to build a resilient and low-carbon future for all.

    Stay tuned to UN News! Our team in Baku will be following the action through the end of next week.

    Want to know more? Check out our special events page, where you can find all our coverage of COP29, including stories and videos, explainers and our newsletter.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: President António COSTA and President Ursula von der LEYEN receives Justin TRUDEAU

    Source: European Commission (video statements)

    President von der Leyen and Mr Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, meet with Mr Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

    Follow us on:
    -X: https://twitter.com/EU_Commission
    -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/europeancommission/
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    -Medium: https://medium.com/@EuropeanCommission

    Visit our website: http://ec.europa.eu/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cPNZTirpakE

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) – 12 February 2025

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Watch PMQs with British Sign Language (BSL) – https://youtube.com/live/TkPeopL_z9M

    Prime Minister’s Question Time, also referred to as PMQs, takes place every Wednesday the House of Commons sits. It gives MPs the chance to put questions to the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, or a nominated minister.

    In most cases, the session starts with a routine ‘open question’ from an MP about the Prime Minister’s engagements. MPs can then ask supplementary questions on any subject, often one of current political significance.

    The Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch MP, asks six questions and the leader of the second largest opposition party asks two. If another minister takes the place of the Prime Minister, opposition parties will usually nominate a shadow minister to ask the questions.

    Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:

    Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/HouseofCommons
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ukhouseofcommons
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ukhouseofcommons

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVPN8q_Hb0M

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Prime Minister’s Questions with British Sign Language (BSL) – 12 February 2025

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Prime Minister’s Question Time, also referred to as PMQs, takes place every Wednesday the House of Commons sits. It gives MPs the chance to put questions to the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, or a nominated minister.

    In most cases, the session starts with a routine ‘open question’ from an MP about the Prime Minister’s engagements. MPs can then ask supplementary questions on any subject, often one of current political significance.

    The Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch MP, asks six questions and the leader of the second largest opposition party asks two. If another minister takes the place of the Prime Minister, opposition parties will usually nominate a shadow minister to ask the questions.

    Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:

    Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/HouseofCommons
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ukhouseofcommons
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ukhouseofcommons

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TkPeopL_z9M

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU external borders: Irregular border crossings fall 22% in January

    Source: Frontex

    The number of irregular border crossings into the European Union fell to just over 13 400 in January, marking a 22% decrease compared to the same month last year.

    Despite this overall decline, the Central Mediterranean route saw an increase in activity, although the increase also highlights the very low figure a year ago.

    Despite a 34% decline from a year ago, the Western African remained the most active migratory route with 4 740 of arrivals in the first month of 2025. The largest share of the irregular migrants came from Mali, Morocco and Guinea.

    In January, the Eastern Mediterranean was the second most active route for arrivals in the European Union, with almost 3 500 arrivals. Yet it recorded a 21% decrease in detections compared to the same month last year.

    The Central Mediterranean route saw the biggest rise in arrivals of 43% (year-on-year) to 3 275.

    The sea crossings, usually orchestrated by organised criminal networks, continue to pose an extreme danger to migrants. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) estimates that 93 people lost their lives at sea in January. In all of last year, this figure reached 2 300, underscoring the tragic human cost of these hazardous routes.

    On the Channel route, the number of detections of people seeking to cross into the United Kingdom fell by more than a fifth from a year ago to slightly above 2 500.

    The latest data reflect shifting migration trends compared to last year. As authorities work to address these evolving challenges, monitoring and cooperation remain key in managing Europe’s external borders.

    With 2 700 officers and staff deployed along the EU external borders, Frontex supports the national authorities with their efforts to safeguard the European borders.

    * Note: The preliminary data presented in this statement refer to the number of detections of irregular border crossing at the external borders of the European Union. The same person may cross the border several times in different locations at the external border.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Career changer thanks Teach Portsmouth for employment success

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    A career changer who moved from the hospitality sector to education has shared her journey into the profession thanks to a Teach Portsmouth event.

    Teach Portsmouth, a Portsmouth City Council service is set to host the city’s largest education recruitment fair on Wednesday 26 February from 10am – 2pm at Guildhall.

    The Teach Portsmouth Jobs and Opportunities Fair invites people to meet schools, academies, colleges, training providers and employment specialists.

    Arianna Marino attended the Teach Portsmouth Jobs and Opportunities Fair 2024 and met the Community Learning Service. The service supports individuals to learn new skills through training. With Arianna’s child starting school, she had the time to pursue a new career. Arianna said:

    “The Community Learning Service has offered guidance on the steps I needed to take to transition into the education sector. I have completed several training courses. Every course I’ve completed has not only enhanced my skills but also improved my confidence.

    “The event has given me access to resources, advice, and opportunities I would not have discovered otherwise. It helped me visualise a future in education and set realistic steps to become a teaching assistant.

    “For anyone who is wanting to attend a Teach Portsmouth event, my advice would be simple: go for it! It is a fantastic opportunity to explore new career paths, meet supportive professionals, and gain clarity about your goals.”

    Arianna has completed a range of courses including maths and English refreshers alongside education specific training.

    Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, said:

    “The Teach Portsmouth Jobs and Opportunities Fair welcomed over 300 people last year to discover careers in the classroom. The event connects the community with employers to explore career paths, gain valuable insights and match up with training providers.

    “Recruitment fairs can act as an important first step if you are new to the profession or can reinforce aspirations you already have. The jobs fair is a one-stop shop for all things education, and I would recommend those interested to attend.”

    For those who need to build confidence before applying for a job, people can sign up to a taster session at the event.

    The scheme allows attendees to visit a participating school or college, meet staff and learn more about their employment opportunities.

    Attendees can also visit the opportunities room throughout the day. The room offers a range of presentations from local experts providing advice on writing job applications, interview techniques, how to become a teaching assistant and teacher training routes.

    Registration is now open for the Teach Portsmouth Jobs and Opportunities Fair. For more information and to get a ticket, visit www.teachportsmouth.co.uk/jobsfair.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: COP29: ‘You have every right to be angry’ Guterres tells youth advocates frustrated over lack of climate action

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Climate and Environment

    As negotiations over how to tackle climate change head into their fifth day in Baku, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed solidarity with young climate advocates at COP29, who told him they are frustrated by the lack of political action on the crisis.

    “You have every right to be angry. I am angry too,” the UN chief posted on social media on Thursday following his meeting with youth representatives and young environmental activists. “I am angry because we are on the verge of the climate abyss, and I don’t see enough urgency or political will to address the emergency.”

    While the opening days of this year’s COP have featured the expected speeches, report launches and expert interventions, today’s youth roundtable was something different.

    Organized by the Youth Advisory Group and YOUNGO – the official youth community of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) – the discussion was a candid departure from the usual formalities of the UN Secretary-General’s usual schedule.

    Opting out of traditional speeches, young eco-activists from across the globe chose to present their visions on tackling climate change, engage in frank discussions about challenges they encounter, and even to solicit advice from the UN chief on how to take significant steps towards preventing a climate catastrophe.

    An everyday reality

    The participants spoke of their dreams and fears, proposing concrete steps to make the world more sustainable and secure for future generations. For many, climate issues are not abstract concepts but everyday realities they are determined to face head on.

    “We discussed the role of youth in sustainable development and the fight against climate change. The fact that Mr. Guterres listens to young people’s opinions and values their ideas is very important to me,” said Aysel Azizova, a young environmental activist from Azerbaijan, who told UN News afterward that her meeting with the Secretary-General “was very productive and inspiring”.

    “This dialogue helped me and my colleagues better understand the causes of climate change and potential solutions. He gave us practical advice,” Ms. Azizova said.

    She said that during the discussion, she had suggested measures to stimulate investment in green technologies and tackle resource limitations, especially for developing countries. “Mr. Guterres kindly addressed my question and explained all the details,” she added.

    Youth are central to climate action

    Lamin Jawo, an 18-year-old child rights activist from the Gambia, shared his reflections with UN News: “I took two important points from his speech, one was about youth involvement. The voices of young people, especially marginalized groups like children and people with disabilities, are essential in climate action.”

    The perspective of young people should be integral to climate initiatives, he said, and added: “The second point concerns climate finance. The Secretary-General mentioned that funding is available, so I want to say that it should be accessible to all nations, especially the most vulnerable to climate change.”

    © UN Office for Partnerships

    UN Secretary-General António Guterres meets with young climate and environmental activists at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan.

    Urban resilience, indigenous knowledge

    Architect and urban planner HY William Chan, who is also the youngest-ever Lord Mayoral City Councilor from Sydney, Australia, also spoke with UN News, highlighting the role of cities on the front lines of climate change.

    “The UN Secretary-General’s remarks resonated with me, particularly since Australia has a deep Indigenous history that emphasizes a harmonious relationship with the environment,” he said.

    “The Secretary-General also emphasized the need for global reform, which our generation has long called for,” Mr. Chan added. “Current governance systems are failing us, especially the vulnerable communities and developing nations on the front lines of the climate emergency. He reinforced the need for a more equitable approach to development and financing – one that ensures resources and policies are accessible and responsive to the most affected communities, including small island states, particularly in my backyard, the Pacific.”

    According to Mr. Chan, young people should be decision-makers, not just participants in the process. He emphasized that the Mr. Guterres’ words serve as a powerful reminder of the collective moral responsibility to pursue systemic change for the sake of future generations.

    UN Video | ‘You Can Count On Me’ UN Secretary-General Tells Youth Climate Activists at COP29

    ‘I count on you, you can count on me’

    In a follow-up message to young people, the UN chief urged: “I ask you to be even more determined and imaginative in keeping up the pressure for climate action. We need a strong youth movement – now more than ever.”

    The UN Secretary-General reaffirmed his commitment to supporting young climate advocates, calling the climate crisis “the most important battle of our time” and insisting, “we must win.”

    “I count on you, and you can count on me,” he concluded.

    Want to know more? Check out our special events page, where you can find all our coverage of COP29, including stories and videos, explainers and our newsletter.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Universities – $1.4m for research on childhood wheeze – UoA

    Source: University of Auckland (UoA)

    An HRC grant of $1.4m will support research into a promising new oral medicine for childhood wheeze.
    A Health Research Council grant of $1.4m will support research into a promising new oral medicine for childhood wheeze, a condition that sees more than 3,000 preschoolers admitted to hospitals in New Zealand each year.
     
    Of children hospitalised with preschool wheeze, one-in-five will return to hospital within the next year for the same condition, typified by a shrill, coarse whistling or rattling sound when the child tries to breathe.
    “Childhood wheeze is a disease for which our current treatments are not very effective,” says paediatrician and researcher at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland Professor Cameron Grant, also head of the Department of Paediatrics, Child, and Youth Health.
    The research project is called ‘Assessing the Reduction of Recurrent admissions using OM-85 for the treatment of preschool Wheeze’, or ‘ARROW’.
    Grant is co-leading the New Zealand arm of the Australasian project with nurse researcher Marisa van Arragon, a doctoral candidate in the Department of Paediatrics at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland.
    The trial of OM-85 will involve more than 1,000 children under five who have repeatedly visited a hospital in New Zealand or Australia with childhood wheeze, a condition where airways are partially blocked, usually triggered by a cold, flu, RSV, or other viruses.
    “We treat childhood wheeze in preschool aged children with asthma medicines, even though the pathophysiology is different from asthma,” Grant says.
    “Plus, asthma medicines have limitations, including environmental harms and side effects, which are particularly concerning in younger children.”
    The medicine being used in this study, OM-85, can be taken as a drink. OM-85 contains several killed respiratory bacteria, which prime the immune system to fight respiratory viruses.
    The pressing issue Grant sees in his clinical work is a tendency for these children to make repeated visits to hospital with wheeze, creating enormous stress for families.
    “Some of the children who are involved in the project have already had over 20 admissions to hospital,” Grant says.
    Two pilot research projects show Māori and Pacific families are over-represented in children being re-admitted to hospital with wheeze.
    An audit of visits to Waitakere Hospital in Auckland showed Māori children were twice as likely to be admitted with wheeze, and 30 percent of Māori children came back to hospital with wheeze compared with 16 percent of non-Māori.
    An audit in Waikato Hospital of patients aged one to five years admitted to the emergency department with wheeze, showed the rate of re-admission was twice as high for Māori and Pacific compared with ‘European and other’.
     
    Funding from Te Niwha in 2024 enabled Grant and van Arragon to take the project into the community and to develop relationships with primary care practices, kōhanga reo, pharmacies, and other healthcare providers in Auckland and Waikato.
     
    Grant says developing relationships within the community and with Māori whānau has been a project highlight.
    The study also creates opportunities for nurses and emerging researchers. As an example of this, Claudia Reid, a Māori medical student at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, is doing a project interviewing wāhine Māori, whose children attend kōhanga reo in the Waikato, around access to care when their tamaiti has a respiratory illness.
    The ARROW study started in 2022 in Australia and a little later in Aotearoa, New Zealand.
    So far, more than half of the more than 160 children enrolled in the study in New Zealand are Māori or Pacific. In Australia and New Zealand, about 600 children have already been enrolled in the trial. The trial uses a randomised, placebo-controlled and double-blinded design.
    In addition to preventing hospital admissions and other healthcare visits, the research team hopes that OM-85 will reduce antibiotic prescribing and the use of propellant inhalers, which are highly polluting.
    “The molecules in the propellants used in inhalers are 3,000 times more globally warming than carbon dioxide,” Grant says.
    “The World Health Organization says we must reduce the use of propellant inhalers, but young children can’t use the alternative dry-powder inhalers, because the technique required to use them is too complicated for young children.
    “So, the only way to reduce the use of propellant inhalers in young children is to reduce the number of wheezing episodes they get, through interventions such as OM-85.”
    Data from the study will be used to create a cost-benefit analysis which will be submitted to Pharmac as an evidence base for potentially funding the OM-85 treatment.
    The ARROW research team includes research nurses from Starship, KidzFirst, Waitakere, Waikato and Tauranga involved in the project.
    Grant and van Arragon say the nurses’ professionalism, passionate approach and whānau-centred care are driving this promising research towards making a difference for whānau suffering from the frightening condition of childhood wheeze.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: Notice of the Annual General Meeting of WithSecure Corporation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WithSecure Corporation, Stock Exchange Release, 12 February 2025, 10:00 EET

    Notice of the Annual General Meeting of WithSecure Corporation                                                   

    The shareholders of WithSecure Corporation are invited to the Annual General Meeting, which will be held on Tuesday, 18 March 2025 starting at 3:00 p.m. EET.

    The meeting will be held as a hybrid meeting in accordance with chapter 5, section 16(2) of the Finnish Limited Liability Companies Act (624/2006, as amended, the ‘Companies Act’), so that shareholders may exercise their shareholder rights fully during the meeting either via remote connection or at the meeting venue at event venue Bysa in Clarion Hotel Helsinki at the address Tyynenmerenkatu 2, 00220 Helsinki. Shareholders may also exercise their voting rights by voting in advance.

    The reception of persons who have registered for the meeting and the pre-meeting coffee service will commence at the meeting venue at 2:15 p.m. EET. The participants of the General Meeting are welcome to enjoy meeting refreshments before the meeting. Instructions concerning participation via remote connection are provided in section C. 2. of this notice and instructions concerning advance voting in section C. 3.

    After the meeting, the participants of the General Meeting have the opportunity to participate in guided tours at the Museum of Malware Art and the new office premises, both of which are located at the Company headquarters at the address Välimerenkatu 1, 00180 Helsinki.

    A. Matters on the agenda of the General Meeting

    1. Opening of the meeting

    2. Calling the meeting to order

    3. Election of the person to scrutinise the minutes and to supervise the counting of votes

    4. Recording the legality of the meeting

    5. Recording the attendance at the meeting and adoption of the list of votes

    6. Presentation of the annual accounts, the consolidated annual accounts, the report of the Board of Directors as well as the auditor’s report and the assurance report on sustainability reporting for the year 2024

    The CEO will give a review of the year 2024 and tell about the Company’s prospects for the year 2025.

    WithSecure Corporation’s annual review, including WithSecure Corporation’s annual accounts, consolidated annual accounts, report of the Board of Directors as well as the auditor’s report and the assurance report on sustainability reporting, shall be available on the Company’s website at www.withsecure.com/en/about-us/investor-relations/governance as of 12 February 2025.

    7. Adoption of the annual accounts and the consolidated annual accounts

    The Board of Directors proposes that the General Meeting adopts the annual accounts and the consolidated annual accounts for the financial year 1 January 2024–31 December 2024.

    8. Resolution on the use of the loss shown on the balance sheet and the distribution of dividend

    The Company’s dividend policy is to pay approximately half of its profits as dividends. Subject to circumstances, the Company may deviate from this policy. On 31 December 2024, WithSecure Corporation’s distributable funds totalled EUR 77.5 million of which the net result for the financial year was EUR -44.0 million. No material changes have taken place in the Company’s financial position after the end of the financial period.

    The Board of Directors proposes that no dividend will be paid for 2024 due to the loss-making result of the year. The Company will focus on funding its growth and developing the business. The net loss for the year is retained in the shareholders’ equity.

    9. Resolution on the discharge of the members of the Board of Directors and the CEO from liability

    10. Consideration of the remuneration policy for governing bodies

    The previous specified version of the remuneration policy has been considered and approved as an advisory resolution by the Annual General Meeting on 24 March 2021.

    The remuneration policy for governing bodies shall be available on the Company’s website at www.withsecure.com/en/about-us/investor-relations/governance as of 12 February 2025 at the latest.

    11. Consideration of the remuneration report for governing bodies

    The remuneration report for governing bodies shall be available on the Company’s website at www.withsecure.com/en/about-us/investor-relations/governance on 12 February 2025 at the latest.

    12. Resolution on the remuneration of the members of the Board of Directors

    The Board of Directors proposes upon recommendation of the Personnel Committee that the annual remuneration of the Board of Directors shall remain unchanged and be paid as follows: EUR 80,000 for the Chairman of the Board of Directors, EUR 48,000 for the Committee Chairmen, EUR 38,000 for the members of the Board of Directors and EUR 12,667 for a member of the Board of Directors employed by the Company. Approximately 40% of the annual remuneration be paid as the Company’s shares acquired on the Board members’ behalf. The commission for acquiring the Company shares will be given immediately after the publication of the interim report for the period 1 January–31 March 2025. The Company will be responsible for the possible transaction costs and possible transfer tax levied in connection with purchase of the shares.

    According to the proposal, the travel expenses and other costs of the members of the Board of Directors directly related to board work are paid in accordance with the Company’s compensation policy in force from time to time. Each member of the Board of Directors is paid a predetermined travel fee in addition to travel expenses for meetings held outside their country of residence in accordance with the Company’s travel policy in force from time to time. According to the travel policy, a separate travel fee of EUR 1,000 is paid to the members of the Board of Directors who travel from another European country to attend an on-site meeting. The travel fee is EUR 2,000 for intercontinental travel. No separate travel fee is paid to a member of the Board of Directors employed by the Company. In addition, the Chairman of the Board of Directors is offered assistant and administrative services.

    13. Resolution on the number of members of the Board of Directors

    The Board of Directors proposes upon recommendation of the Personnel Committee that the number of members of the Board of Directors be seven (7).

    14. Election of members of the Board of Directors

    The Board of Directors proposes upon recommendation of the Personnel Committee that Risto Siilasmaa, Amanda Bedborough, Niilo Fredrikson, Ciaran Martin, and Tuomas Syrjänen are to be re-elected as ordinary members of the Board of Directors and that Mervi Kerkelä-Hiltunen and Artturi Lehtiö, who is employed by WithSecure Corporation, are to be elected as new members of the Board of Directors. Of the current Board members, Harri Ruusinen and Kirsi Sormunen have stated that they will no longer be available as Board members.

    The Board member candidates’ CVs and assessments of independence are available on the Company’s website at www.withsecure.com/en/about-us/investor-relations/governance.

    15. Resolution on the remuneration of the auditor

    The Board of Directors proposes upon recommendation of the Audit Committee that the remuneration to the auditor be paid in accordance with the approved invoice.

    16. Election of the auditor

    The Board of Directors proposes upon recommendation of the Audit Committee that audit firm PricewaterhouseCoopers Oy be re-elected as auditor of the Company. PricewaterhouseCoopers Oy has stated that Mr Jukka Karinen, APA, will act as the responsible auditor.

    17. Resolution on the remuneration of the authorised sustainability auditor

    The Board of Directors proposes upon recommendation of the Audit Committee that the remuneration of the authorised sustainability auditor be paid in accordance with the approved invoice.

    18. Election of the authorised sustainability auditor

    The Board of Directors proposes upon recommendation of the Audit Committee that PricewaterhouseCoopers Oy be elected as the Company’s authorised sustainability auditor. PricewaterhouseCoopers Oy has stated that Mr Jukka Karinen, ASA, will act as the responsible authorised sustainability auditor.

    19. Authorising the Board of Directors to resolve on the repurchase of the Company’s own shares

    The Board of Directors proposes that the General Meeting authorise the Board of Directors to resolve upon the repurchase of a maximum of 17,609,870 of the Company’s own shares in total. The proposed maximum amount equals to approximately 10% of all the shares in the Company, in one or several tranches with the Company’s unrestricted equity.

    The authorisation entitles the Board of Directors to resolve on the repurchase also in deviation from the proportional holdings of the shareholders (directed repurchase). The authorisation comprises the repurchase of shares either in the public trading or otherwise in the market at the trading price determined for the shares in public trading on the date of purchase, or with a purchase offer to the shareholders, in which case the repurchase price must be the same for all shareholders. The Company’s own shares shall be repurchased to be used for carrying out acquisitions or implementing other arrangements related to the Company’s business or for optimising the Company’s capital structure, to be used as part of the implementation of the Company’s incentive scheme or otherwise to be transferred further or cancelled. The authorisation includes the right of the Board of Directors to resolve on all other terms related to the repurchase of the Company’s own shares.

    The Board of Directors proposes that the authorisation be valid until the conclusion of the next Annual General Meeting, in any case no later than until 30 June 2026. The Board of Directors proposes that this authorisation terminate the authorisation given to the Board of Directors by the Annual General Meeting of 20 March 2024 concerning the repurchase of the Company’s own shares.

    20. Authorising the Board of Directors to resolve on the issuance of shares as well as the issuance of options and other special rights entitling to shares

    The Board of Directors proposes that the General Meeting authorise the Board of Directors to resolve on the issuance of a maximum of 17,609,870 shares in total through a share issue as well as by issuing options and other special rights entitling to shares pursuant to chapter 10, section 1 of the Companies Act in one or several tranches. The proposed maximum number of the shares corresponds to approximately 10% of all shares in the Company.  The authorisation concerns both the issuance of new shares and the transfer of treasury shares held by the Company.

    The authorisation entitles the Board of Directors to resolve on all terms related to the share issue as well as the issuance of options and other special rights entitling to shares. The issuance of shares may be carried out in deviation from the shareholders’ pre-emptive subscription right (directed issue). The authorisation may be used for potential acquisitions or other arrangements, for share-based incentive schemes or otherwise for purposes resolved by the Board of Directors. Of the authorisation, a maximum of 2,000,000 shares may be used as part of the above-mentioned share-based incentive schemes, which corresponds to approximately 1% of all shares in the Company.

    The Board of Directors proposes that the authorisation be valid until the conclusion of the next Annual General Meeting, in any case no later than until 30 June 2026. The Board of Directors proposes that this authorisation terminate the authorisation given to the Board of Directors by the Annual General Meeting of 20 March 2024 concerning the issuance of shares as well as the issuance of options and other special rights entitling to shares.

    21. Closing of the meeting

    B. Documents of the General Meeting

    The resolution proposals for the matters on the agenda of the General Meeting mentioned above and this notice are available on WithSecure Corporation’s website at www.withsecure.com/en/about-us/investor-relations/governance. WithSecure Corporation’s annual review including the Company’s annual accounts, consolidated annual accounts, the report of the Board of Directors as well as the auditor’s report and the assurance report on sustainability reporting, as well as the remuneration policy and remuneration report for WithSecure Corporation’s governing bodies are available on said website 12 February 2025 at the latest. The resolution proposals and other documents mentioned above will also be made available at the General Meeting.

    The minutes of the General Meeting will be available on the above-mentioned website at the latest on 1 April 2025.

    C. Instructions for the participants in the General Meeting

    1. Shareholders registered in the shareholders’ register

    Each shareholder who is registered on 6 March 2025, the record date of the General Meeting, in the shareholders’ register of the Company held by Euroclear Finland Oy, has the right to participate in the General Meeting. A shareholder whose shares are registered on the shareholder’s Finnish book-entry account is registered in the shareholders’ register of the Company.

    Changes in shareholding after the record date of the General Meeting do not affect the right to participate in the General Meeting or the number of voting rights.

    Registration for the General Meeting begins on 13 February 2025 at 10:00 a.m. EET. A shareholder whose shares are registered on the shareholder’s Finnish book-entry account and who wishes to participate in the meeting must register for the meeting at the latest on 11 March 2025 at 4:00 p.m. EET, by which time the notice of participation must be received by the Company. Shareholders can register for the meeting by one of the following means:

    1. Online through the Company’s website at www.withsecure.com/en/about-us/investor-relations/governance. Online registration requires strong electronic identification from the shareholder or the shareholder’s statutory representative or proxy representative using Finnish, Swedish or Danish online banking credentials or a mobile certificate.
    2. By email to the address agm@innovatics.fi or by mail to the address Innovatics Ltd, General Meeting/WithSecure Corporation, Ratamestarinkatu 13 A, 00520 Helsinki. The registering shareholder must include in the registration the registration form and advance voting form available on the Company’s website www.withsecure.com/en/about-us/investor-relations/governance or equivalent information.

    The requested information, such as the shareholder’s name, date of birth or business ID, contact information as well as the name of the shareholder’s possible assistant and/or proxy representative and date of birth of proxy representative as well as telephone number and/or email address of proxy representative must be provided in connection with the registration. The personal data disclosed by the shareholders to WithSecure Corporation or Innovatics Ltd will only be used in connection with the General Meeting and the processing of related necessary registrations.

    It must also be stated in connection with the registration whether the shareholder or the shareholder’s proxy representative will participate in the General Meeting at the meeting venue or via remote connection. Instructions concerning remote participation are provided in section C. 2. of these instructions.

    Upon request, shareholders, their representatives, or proxy representatives must be able to prove their identity and/or right of representation at the meeting venue.

    Additional information on registration, remote participation and advance voting is available by telephone at +358 10 2818 909 during the registration period of the General Meeting between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. EET and between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. EET on weekdays.

    2. Remote participation in the meeting

    Shareholders who have the right to participate in the General Meeting may participate in the meeting and exercise their shareholder rights fully during the meeting either at the meeting venue or via remote connection.

    A notice given by shareholders or proxy representatives that they will participate in the General Meeting via remote connection is binding, and after the end of the registration period the shareholders or proxy representatives do not have the right to change their means of participation or participate in the meeting at the meeting venue. However, a notice of participation via remote connection given by a shareholder’s proxy representative does not limit the right of the shareholder’s other proxy representatives to participate in the meeting at the meeting venue.

    The remote connection to the General Meeting will be implemented through Inderes Oyj’s virtual AGM service using the Videosync platform, which includes video and audio access to the General Meeting. Using the remote connection does not require software or downloads subject to a charge. In addition to an internet connection, participation requires a computer, smartphone or tablet with speakers or headphones for audio playback as well as a microphone for oral questions and comments. The following browsers are recommended for remote participation: Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari, or Opera. Shareholders are responsible for their internet connections and devices during the meeting. In order to prepare for technical failures, it is recommended that shareholders who participate in the meeting remotely vote in advance.

    The participation link and password for remote participation will be sent by email and/or SMS to the email address and/or mobile phone number provided in connection with the registration by the day before the meeting, 17 March 2025 at the latest. It is recommended to log in to the meeting system in good time before the meeting starts.

    For more information on the AGM service, additional instructions for proxy holders representing more than one shareholder, contact details and instructions of the service provider in case of possible disruptions, please visit https://vagm.fi/support and a link to test the compatibility of your computer, smartphone or tablet with the internet connection can be found at https://b2b.inderes.com/fi/knowledge-base/yhteensopivuuden-testaaminen. It is recommended to consult the detailed attendance instructions before the start of the General Meeting.

    3. Advance voting

    A shareholder whose shares are registered on the shareholder’s Finnish book-entry account can vote in advance on certain matters on the agenda between 13 February 2025 at 10:00 a.m. EET and 11 March 2025 at 4:00 p.m. EET in the following ways:

    1. Online through the service available on the Company’s website at www.withsecure.com/en/about-us/investor-relations/governance. Shareholders can sign into the advance voting service the same way as to the online registration service referred to above in section C. 1. a) of these instructions.
    2. By email or mail by sending the advance voting form available on the Company’s website at www.withsecure.com/en/about-us/investor-relations/governance or corresponding information to Innovatics Ltd, by email to the address agm@innovatics.fi or by mail to the address Innovatics Ltd, General Meeting/WithSecure Corporation, Ratamestarinkatu 13 A, 00520 Helsinki. Advance votes must be received before the advance voting period ends.

    A proposed resolution that is subject to advance voting is considered to be presented unchanged in the General Meeting, and the advance votes are taken into account in a vote at the real-time General Meeting also in circumstances where an alternative resolution has been proposed concerning the matter. Taking the votes into account requires that the shareholders who voted in advance are registered in the Company’s shareholders’ register maintained by Euroclear Finland Oy on the record date of the General Meeting. Sending the votes in advance by mail or email so that they are received before the end of the time limit of the registration and advance voting period constitutes registration for the General Meeting, provided that the shareholder’s notice of participation includes the above information required for registration. Unless shareholders voting in advance participate at the General Meeting at the meeting venue in person or by way of proxy representation or participate in the General Meeting via remote connection, they will not be able to use their rights under the Companies Act to request information or a vote.

    Holders of nominee registered shares can vote in advance through their account operators. Account operators can vote in advance on behalf of the holders of nominee registered shares they represent in accordance with the shareholders’ voting instructions during the registration period applicable to holders of nominee registered shares.

    4. Holder of nominee registered shares

    A holder of nominee registered shares has the right to participate in the Annual General Meeting by virtue of such shares, based on which the holder of nominee registered shares on the record date of the General Meeting, 6 March 2025, would be entitled to be registered in the shareholders’ register of the Company held by Euroclear Finland Oy. In addition, the right to participate requires that the holder of nominee registered shares be temporarily entered into the shareholders’ register held by Euroclear Finland Oy based on these shares at the latest by 13 March 2025 at 10:00 a.m. EET. As regards nominee registered shares, this constitutes due registration for the General Meeting. Changes in shareholding after the record date of the General Meeting do not affect the right to participate in the General Meeting or the number of voting rights.

    A holder of nominee registered shares is advised to request in good time the necessary instructions regarding the temporary registration in the shareholders’ register of the Company, the issuing of proxy documents and voting instructions, registration for the General Meeting, and advance voting from such shareholder’s custodian bank. The account management organisation of the custodian bank shall temporarily register a holder of nominee registered shares who wishes to participate in the General Meeting into the shareholders’ register of the Company at the latest by the time stated above. When necessary, the account management organisation of the custodian bank shall also arrange advance voting on behalf of the holder of nominee registered shares before the end of the registration period applicable to holders of nominee registered shares.

    A holder of nominee registered shares who has registered for the General Meeting may participate in the General Meeting at the meeting venue or via remote connection. Remote participation requires temporary entry into the shareholders’ register held by Euroclear Finland Oy and submission of an email address and telephone number of the holder of nominee registered shares by email to the address agm@innovatics.fi by mail to the address Innovatics Ltd, General Meeting/WithSecure Corporation, Ratamestarinkatu 13 A, 00520 Helsinki before the registration period applicable to holders of nominee registered shares ends so that an attendance link and password can be sent to the holder of nominee registered shares for participating in the General Meeting remotely.

    5. Proxy representative and powers of attorney

    A shareholder may participate in the General Meeting and exercise the shareholder rights at the meeting by way of proxy representation. The proxy representative may also vote in advance in the manner instructed in section C. 3. of these instructions.

    The proxy representative shall produce a dated proxy document or power of attorney or otherwise in a reliable manner demonstrate such representative’s right to represent the shareholder at the General Meeting. If a shareholder participates in the General Meeting by means of several proxy representatives representing the shareholder with shares in different book-entry accounts, the shares by which each proxy representative represents the shareholder shall be identified in connection with the registration for the General Meeting. 

    A proxy template is available on the Company’s website at www.withsecure.com/en/about-us/investor-relations/governance.

    Possible proxy documents are to be delivered primarily as an attachment in connection with the electronic registration, or alternatively by email to Innovatics Ltd to the address agm@innovatics.fi or by mail to the address Innovatics Ltd, General Meeting/WithSecure Corporation, Ratamestarinkatu 13 A, 00520 Helsinki before the end of the registration period, by which time the proxy documents must be received. WithSecure Corporation may, if it so wishes, demand original proxy documents if regarded necessary by the Company.

    In addition to submitting a proxy document, shareholders or their proxy representatives shall ensure that they register for the General Meeting in the manner described above in section C. 1. of these instructions.

    If a proxy representative represents more than one shareholder at the General Meeting, it is recommended to vote in advance. Even if the proxy representative represents more than one shareholder at the General Meeting either at the meeting venue or via remote connection, only one attendance link and password will be provided to the proxy representative for all shareholders the proxy representative represents. The proxy representative will therefore not need to log into the service separately on behalf of each shareholder but shall ensure the exercise of shareholders’ rights by voting on behalf of each shareholder separately.

    A shareholder may authorise a proxy representative by using the Suomi.fi e-authorisation service as an alternative to a traditional proxy document. The proxy representative is authorised via the Suomi.fi service at www.suomi.fi/e-authorizations (authorisation for ‘Representation at the General Meeting’). When registering for the General Meeting service, the proxy representative must identify themselves by using strong electronic identification, after which the proxy representative can register and vote in advance on behalf of the shareholder the proxy representative represents. Strong electronic identification requires a Finnish bank ID or mobile certificate. For more information on e-authorisation, please see www.suomi.fi/e-authorizations.

    6. Other instructions and information

    The language of the General Meeting is Finnish.

    A shareholder present at the meeting has the right to ask questions referred to in chapter 5, section 25 of the Companies Act with respect to the matters to be considered at the General Meeting.

    On the date of this notice, Wednesday, 12 February 2025, the total number of shares in WithSecure Corporation is 176,098,739 shares, which represent an equal number of votes. On the date of this notice, the Company holds 81,890 treasury shares. Treasury shares do not produce any rights in the Company and do therefore not entitle to participation in the General Meeting.

    Helsinki, 12 February 2025

    WITHSECURE CORPORATION 
    Board of Directors

    Contact information:

    Tiina Sarhimaa, Chief Legal Officer
    WithSecure Corporation

    Laura Viita
    VP, Controlling, Investor relations and Sustainability
    WithSecure Corporation
    +358 50 487 1044
    investor-relations@withsecure.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with Permanent Representative of Cambodia to ASEAN

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today welcomed the Permanent Representative of Cambodia to ASEAN, H.E. Ambassador Heng Sarith, for a meeting at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. The meeting discussed preparations for the visit of Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN, President of the Senate of the Kingdom of Cambodia, to the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat in the first quarter of 2025 and it also provided an opportunity to reaffirm the strong partnership between ASEAN and Cambodia as well as to exchange views on regional priorities to advance ASEAN Community-building efforts.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with Permanent Representative of Cambodia to ASEAN appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NIST OWM Info Hour: Overview and Discussion on Emerging Legal Metrology Device Technology

    Source: US Government research organizations

    This Info Hour will provide an overview and facilitate a discussion on legal metrology devices that incorporate emerging technologies and the challenges associated with their use. This discussion will encompass devices that utilize measurement technology new to the Weight and Measures Community as well as devices that use established technology in new or unique legal metrology applications.  

    Date: February 20, 2025

    Time:  2:00 to 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time

    OWM Technical Contact: Loren Minnich

    Add to your calendar

    Host:  Loren Minnich

    Following a description of each technology and the applicable Handbook 44 General Code paragraphs, Loren will moderate a discussion encouraging participants to share knowledge, insight, concerns, and questions related to emerging technology.  

    These will include:

    • Bi-direction Metering for EV’s
    • Wireless Charging of EV’s
    • Caper Cart Mobile POS System
    • MDMD Volumetric Measuring Systems
    • Driverless Taxi’s
    • Other “New” Technology

    There is no fee to attend the event, and no certificates will be issued.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Quantum Matters in Material Sciences (QMMS)

    Source: US Government research organizations

    As part of the JARVIS workshop series, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is organizing the 4th Quantum Matters in Materials Science (QMMS) workshop in-person on Feb 19-20, 2025. The workshop will be focused on quantum phenomena in emerging materials for next generation devices. All materials are inherently quantum in nature, but when quantum phenomena manifest at the classical scale can we hope to leverage their properties for applications. Large scale initiatives such as the Materials Genome Initiative, the National Quantum Initiative, and the CHIPS for America Act represent compelling approaches to investigate quantum materials and accelerate their development for quantum information systems (QIS), for the use in future integrated circuits, and other practical industrial applications. For these approaches and initiatives to be successful, it is essential to have good synergy between experimental and computational efforts. This workshop aims at streamlining this effort. To make the workshop as effective as possible, we plan to mainly focus on 2D and 3D inorganic superconductor, topological, magnetic, and semiconducting materials, but we are not limited to those systems.

     

    Some of the key topics to be addressed by both theory and experiments are:

    1) discovery and characterization of new superconductors/topological, magnetic, and semiconducting materials,

    2) optimization of known quantum materials,

    3) investigation of defect induced behavior and transitions,

    4) electronics, spintronics, and quantum memory applications,

    5) challenges in applying QIS technologies at industrial scale,

    6) successes and challenges in integrating next-generation materials into integrated circuits (microchips),

    7) the role of material interfaces at the quantum level,

    8) high fidelity many-body computational methods to treat quantum materials,

    9) applications for quantum computing and quantum simulations.

     

    CALL FOR ABSTRACTS

    If registered participants are interested in presenting a poster, please send name, affiliation, title, and abstract to nia.rodney-pollard [at] nist.gov (nia[dot]rodney-pollard[at]nist[dot]gov) no later than 1/31/2025.

    A room block has been reserved at the following location:

    Sheraton Rockville

    Address: 920 King Farm Blvd, Rockville, MD 20850

    Rate: $119/person (plus tax). Rate includes shuttle to and from NCCoE for both days of the workshop.

    CLICK HERE to book your room

    Last day to book your room: January 27, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 86 Metric System Education Resources – CANCELED

    Source: US Government research organizations

    The International System of Units (SI), commonly known as the metric system, is easy to use and learn when taught using metric tools. The ability to interpret measurement scales, magnitude, and approximate a quantity are essential Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) competencies.

    This 1.5-hour session will explore NIST Metric Program education publications and other resources teachers, parents, and students can download and freely reproduce. These resources are helpful to students as they become familiar with metric units, develop measurement quantity reference points, and learn more about SI basics.

    National Metric Week, a collaboration between the NIST Metric Program and the U.S. Metric Association (USMA) will be discussed, as well as related USMA online education resources that include scholarships, awards, national Science Fair Program, and the Certified Metrication Specialist Program.

    Learning Objectives

    At the end of this session, using your notes, you will be able to:

    • LIST five best practices for teaching the International System of Units (SI), commonly known as the metric system.
    • DESCRIBE how you will use at least one SI education publication or resource to educate students in a traditional classroom, distance learning environment, or community outreach event.
    • REQUEST a free NIST Metric Teacher Kit.
    • PREPARE to celebrate National Metric Week (the 10th month of the year and the week containing the 10th day).

    Minimum Requirements

    Successful completion includes participation in all activities and discussions. Session participants will receive a Certificate of Attendance (does not include participant name or CEUs) by email after the session. Attendance is recorded in the unofficial transcript, which is available in the OWM Contacts System.

    Audience

    This session is ideal for K-12 educators and Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM) professionals and other outreach ambassadors responsible for instructing middle school students on measurement techniques and STEAM careers. Parents and academic coaches who assist with student homework completion and science fair participation may also attend.

    Cost

    There is currently no registration fee for this webinar.

    Instructor

    Elizabeth Benham
    Phone: (301) 975-3690
    Email: elizabeth.benham [at] nist.gov (elizabeth[dot]benham[at]nist[dot]gov)

    Technology Requirements

    The webinar will be a live stream, so participants must have a constant connection during the webinar (hard-wired is preferred).  Review these system requirements to verify that MS Teams may be used on your computer, mobile device, or web browser. The performance of MS Teams may be influenced by other factors, such as network connectivity or other device applications. 

    Operating System (browsing) configurations:

    • Windows
      • Windows 8.1 and later, 64-bit;
        • Google Chrome;
        • Mozilla Firefox; and
        • Microsoft Edge.
    • macOS
      • One of the three latest MacOS versions;
        • Mozilla Firefox;
        • Apple Safari (no calls via Teams possible); and
        • Google Chrome.
    • Linux
      • Operating system: DEB or RPM;
      • Desktop environment: GNOME, KDE;
        • Mozilla Firefox; and
        • Opera.

    Web Browsers:

    • On computers running Windows, Mac, or Linux, ensure you have the latest release of one of these browsers:
      • Google Chrome;
      • Mozilla Firefox;
      • Apple Safari; and
      • Microsoft Edge.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 87 Conducting an Effective Management Review – CANCELED

    Source: US Government research organizations

    This 2-hour webinar introduces the Laboratory Management Review process, an important tool to foster communication between top management and laboratory personnel to improve laboratory operations to produce quality calibrations and highly satisfied customers.

    Learning Objectives:

    At the end of (or during) this session, using your notes, ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and NIST HB 143, you will:

    • IDENTIFY management review criteria (Section 8.9) in ISO/IEC 17025, NIST HB 143, and your laboratory quality manual and related procedures;
    • LIST the personnel that should participate in a management review;
    • LIST the 15 elements that are typically discussed during a management review;
    • SELECT sources of objective evidence that are used during a management review;
    • DISCUSS the value and benefits of management reviews; and
    • APPLY the management review and process to laboratory scenarios.

    Materials & Supplies:

    None.

    Prerequisite(s):

    There are no prerequisites for this webinar.

    Pre-Work:

    To complete the pre-work, participants will need the following resources:

    • ISO/IEC 17025:2017 (Section 8.9 Management Reviews) and NIST HB 143
    • Laboratory policy and procedure for conducting a Management Review.
    • Laboratory’s most recent Management Review.
      • If you are planning on opening (or reopening) a laboratory, please contact the instructor for an alternative pre-work assignment.

    Pre-Work Deadline:

    Pre-work should be submitted to the instructor COB by Thursday, January 30, 2025.

    Post-Work:

    None. 

    Minimum Requirement(s):

    Completion includes completing pre-work assignment, full attendance, and active participation in the session activities and discussions.

    Audience:

    Laboratory personnel who have responsibilities for developing, implementing, and/or improving the quality management system in their laboratory as well as those who are seeking OWM recognition and/or accreditation or improvements to support recognition/accreditation. This webinar is especially useful for administrative or management staff who participate in management reviews and monitor the implementation and effectiveness of the resulting action items. This webinar is especially helpful for laboratory personnel and for the managers/administrators involved in the regular management review sessions. This course is available for non-weights and measures participants.

    Registration Fee:

    The current registration fee for webinars is $350.  The payment deadline is COB Monday, February 3, 2025, and confirmed participants will be sent payment instructions when their training request is confirmed.  Registration fees for State weights and measures metrologists are funded by NIST OWM.

    Instructor:

    Elizabeth Koncki
    Email: elizabeth.koncki [at] nist.gov (elizabeth[dot]koncki[at]nist[dot]gov)

    Technology Requirement(s):

    The webinar will be a live stream, so participants must have a constant connection during the webinar (hard-wired is preferred).
     
    1. Operating System (browser) configurations:

    • Windows
      • Windows 10, 8.1 (32-bit/64-bit), Windows 7 (32-bit/64-bit)
      • Microsoft Internet Explorer 11 or later, Windows Edge browser, Mozilla Firefox, and Google Chrome
      • For HTML Client – Google Chrome (v70.0 & above), Mozilla Firefox (v65.0 & above), and Edge (v42.0 & above)
    • Mac OS
      • Mac OS X 10.12, 10.13 and 10.14
      • Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Google Chrome
      • For HTML Client – Google Chrome (v70.0 & above), Apple Safari (v12.0 & above), and  Mozilla Firefox (v65.0 & above)
    • Linux
      • Ubuntu 16.04; Red Hat Enterprise Linux 6
      • No application support is available for Linux. Users on Linux can attend meetings in a browser.
      • Google Chrome, Adobe Flash Player 23.0

    2. Mobile

    • The Adobe Connect app for iOS and Android requires Adobe Connect Server version 8.2 or later
    • Google Android 4.4 or later
    • Apple iOS: iOS 8.1.2 or later
    • Some features may not be enabled in all Adobe Connect meetings if one is using an Adobe Connect Server older than version 9.4.2 (required for Custom pods)
      • NOTE:  OWM discourages using the Adobe Connect app for iOS and Android because engaging with highly technical content and interactive polls are challenging on a small screen.

    3. Media players

    • In order to access the event, you must have, at a minimum, Adobe® Flash® Player 13 or higher installed on your computer. Please visit http://get2.adobe.com/flashplayer/ to download the Flash Player.

    4.  International Phone Calls

    • Before the webinar – Participants are responsible for verifying and testing that international calling is enabled on any telephone extension that will be used during the webinar. Some organizations permit only domestic calls, which may restrict the participant from making an international call to the OWM toll free number. A request to enable international call services may be necessary. Failing to test the international phone service could prevent participation in the webinar.

    5. Optional: If you have never attended an Adobe Connect meeting before:

    * Adobe, the Adobe logo, Acrobat and Adobe Connect are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated in the United States and/or other countries.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Seminar: Building an In-Space Circular Economy

    Source: US Government research organizations

    Credit: NOAA Office of Space Commerce

    Important note regarding inclement weather: If the U.S. government is closed or delayed, the ISAM Seminar will be postponed to a later date. Please contact Dianne Poster (dianne.poster [at] noaa.gov (dianne[dot]poster[at]nist[dot]gov)) or Carolyn Pace (carolyn.pace [at] noaa.gov (carolyn[dot]pace[at]noaa[dot]gov)) for further information. 

    The deadline for registration for in-person attendance for foreign nationals has passed.  At this time, only virtual attendance is available for foreign nationals.

    The NOAA Office of Space Commerce and NIST are hosting an event to explore the circular space economy. This innovative approach aims to utilize space-based resources sustainably by minimizing waste and maximizing the reuse and recycling of materials in space operations. As humanity expands its presence beyond Earth, this model becomes vital for reducing the need for costly resupply missions and mitigating the environmental impact of space activities.

    By rethinking how resources are extracted, processed, and reused in orbit, a circular space economy can enhance mission longevity and improve the efficiency of various space missions, including space station utilization, in-space manufacturing, satellite servicing, and establishing off-world habitats. This approach supports broader sustainability goals on Earth and addresses urgent challenges like orbital debris and resource scarcity, ensuring a responsible and thriving space industry for future generations.

    Attending this event is a crucial opportunity for policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and entrepreneurs to engage in shaping the future of space sustainability. The event will showcase cutting-edge advancements, including in-orbit recycling technologies, sustainable satellite manufacturing practices, and innovative policies for managing shared space resources. It provides a platform for collaboration on scalable solutions, sharing ideas, and forging partnerships that drive economic growth and environmental stewardship in the growing space sector. Participants will gain valuable insights into how the circular space economy can tackle critical challenges, unlocking new opportunities for economic resilience and long-term sustainability in the final frontier.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: GTreasury Customer The Arnott’s Group Wins Adam Smith Award for Cash Forecasting Success

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO and SYDNEY, Feb. 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GTreasury, the pioneer and global leader in Digital Treasury Solutions for the Office of the CFO, today announced that its customer, The Arnott’s Group, has been named a Highly Commended Winner in Treasury Today’s 2024 Adam Smith Awards Asia. The annual industry benchmark for corporate treasury achievement honors the most innovative and transformative treasury initiatives across the Asia-Pacific region.

    The Arnott’s Group—one of Australia’s most iconic food manufacturers, with a portfolio of beloved brands including Arnott’s, Tim Tam & Shapes, V8, Messy Monkeys, Freedom Cereals, and 180degrees—was honored in Treasury Today’s Best Cash Flow Forecasting Solution category.

    “Our separation from Campbell’s presented us with an immediate need to build an independent, modern treasury function from the ground up,” said Joanne Parnell, Treasurer, The Arnott’s Group. “GTreasury’s cloud-based platform eliminated our reliance on manual Excel processes and automated our entire treasury operations, from cash forecasting to FX deal capture. The results continue to speak for themselves: we’ve cut payment preparation time by 30% and reduced our monthly close cycle by a full day. We’re honored that Treasury Today has recognized our treasury team’s work, and the transformative advantages we’ve achieved.”

    Among The Arnott’s Group’s measurable improvements across its treasury operations since implementing GTreasury:

    • Reduced daily cash reconciliation and payment preparation time by 30% through automation
    • Transformed month-end closing from a 1.5-day process to just half a day
    • Shifted from monthly to daily journal preparation, with entries now completed within hours
    • Streamlined team onboarding and training through intuitive cloud-based workflows

    The automated platform has also enhanced The Arnott’s Group’s strategic capabilities, enabling real-time visibility into cash positions and more sophisticated FX risk management. These improvements have freed up the treasury team to focus on strategic initiatives rather than manual processes.

    “The Arnott’s Group treasury team, working in collaboration with HSBC Australia as an implementation partner, was able to transform their entire operation in just six months,” said Jason Baldree, Chief Customer Officer, GTreasury. “It’s a remarkable achievement that we’re proud to have played a role in. Their success sets a blueprint for treasury modernization in the Asia-Pacific region, and we congratulate the team on this well-deserved recognition.”

    About GTreasury

    GTreasury provides CFOs and Treasurers with The Clarity to Act on strategic financial decisions with the world’s most adaptable treasury platform, empowering them to face the challenges of today and tomorrow. Our industry leading solutions are purposefully designed to support every stage of treasury complexity, from Cash Visibility and Forecasting to Payments, Risk, Debt, and Investments. With GTreasury, financial leaders gain comprehensive connectivity across all banks and ERPs to build an orchestrated data environment, enabling rapid value realization with implementations up and running in weeks. Plus, our unmatched industry expertise ensures clients’ continued success through dedicated guidance and top-tier support. Trusted by over 1,000 customers across 160 countries, GTreasury provides treasury and finance teams with the ability to connect, compile, and manage mission-critical data to optimize cash flows and capital structures. To learn more, visit GTreasury.com.

    GTreasury is headquartered in Chicago, with locations serving EMEA (Dublin and London) and APAC (Sydney, Singapore, and Manila).

    Contact
    Kyle Peterson
    kyle@clementpeterson.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: SimpSide – All In One

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Feb. 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SimpSide has been designed to address the most pressing challenges in the world of financial trading. By providing innovative solutions to common issues, SimpSide delivers an entirely new and efficient experience for its users.

    Unmatched Security with SimpSide

    One of SimpSide’s most outstanding features is its commitment to user security and privacy. Unlike many other platforms that store user data on centralized servers thereby increasing the risk of breaches or misuse SimpSide takes a completely different approach. User information is never stored or shared with third parties, except in extreme cases such as combating money laundering or terrorism. This ensures that users retain complete control over their data and can trade with absolute peace of mind.

    Speed and Efficiency Like Never Before

    A common issue with many trading platforms is a decline in speed during periods of high market activity. SimpSide eliminates this problem with its state-of-the-art trading engine, which executes trades up to 12 times faster than traditional platforms. Even during times of extreme market volatility, SimpSide maintains a stable and fast performance. This allows users to act on investment opportunities in real-time, without worrying about delays or missed chances.

    All Markets, One Platform

    One of SimpSide’s most innovative features is its unified platform that provides simultaneous access to stocks, cryptocurrencies, and forex markets. Gone are the days of juggling multiple platforms to manage your investments or transferring funds between different systems. SimpSide brings everything together in one seamless, user-friendly interface, enabling users to manage their entire portfolio from a single location. This approach not only saves time and reduces costs but also significantly enhances the user experience.

    A Platform Built for the Future of Trading

    SimpSide is not just about solving existing problems in financial markets; it’s about setting new standards in the industry. By combining robust security measures, lightning-fast speed, and market integration, SimpSide empowers users to trade with confidence and convenience. This isn’t just a tool; it’s a step toward a better future in financial trading.

    Conclusion

    With SimpSide, concerns about data security, trade delays, or limited market access become a thing of the past. This platform is designed to meet all the needs of modern traders and provide a seamless, worry-free investment experience. SimpSide is the answer to the challenges of today’s financial markets and the bridge to a simpler, faster, and safer tomorrow.

    CONTACT:

    Official Website: Simpside.com

    X: SimpSide

    CEO: Antony Dee

    Email: Support@SimpSide.com

    Adress: Al Maktoum Street, Port Saeed, Deira, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by SimpSide. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the sponsor and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in cloud mining and related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: 

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9d421263-a8f1-4682-831a-e8f94a741a71

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/79c9bc6d-1212-4b1f-9a67-ce5e9d1fb35c

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Government-Coalition deal secures sweeping new regime for political donations and spending

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    The Albanese government has secured bipartisan support for a major new regime covering political donations and spending, after making significant concessions.

    The government agreed to increase the proposed threshold above which donations must be disclosed from $1000 to $5000. The present disclosure threshold is $16,900.

    In addition, it has boosted the cap on individual donations to a candidate or party from the earlier proposed $20,000 to $50,000.

    The deal was sealed on Wednesday when Special Minister of State Don Farrell had separate meetings on the final package with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition leader Peter Dutton.

    The legislation had been expected to pass late last year but negotiations between the government and opposition stalled at the final moment.

    The government concessions were to accommodate not just the Coalition but also to respond to a degree to criticism from crossbenchers and some stakeholders outside parliament.

    The government needed to get opposition backing to ensure the legislation’s passage before parliament rises this week. If the PM called an April election this would be the last parliamentary sitting.

    Also, it wanted to pass the measures with the support of the alternative government so the new regime would not be undone in the future.

    The reforms are the most comprehensive changes to the electoral system in four decades. The government says they will stop big money coming to dominate politics. But they have been under attack from teal MPs and other critics, including Simon Holmes à Court from Climate 200, which has funded community independents. The critics say they favour the major parties and disadvantage new and small players.

    The new regime will not come into operation until the next parliamentary term and so does not affect this election.

    The changes include disclosure of donations in real time or near-real time, and a series of caps on spending, The cap on each candidate in an electorate would be $800,000, while a party’s national spending would also be capped. At the moment there are no spending caps.

    The legislation increases public funding for elections from under $3.50 per vote to about $5.

    Farrell has not proceeded with a separate measure on truth in advertising, saying there was not enough support for it.

    The Greens described the deal as “a fix”. “Labor and the Coalition are agreeing on rigging the system to lock out their competitors.”

    Independent Zoe Daniel, a teal, said the legislation “entrenches the dominance of the major parties and locks out independents and new competitors”.

    She said it imposed “strict campaign spending caps on Independents while
    allowing major parties to exploit loopholes to pour millions into key
    electorates.

    “Under the new rules, all an independent’s campaign materials – posters, ads, or billboards – would count towards the cap, while major party branding on billboards, leaflets and ads would not. This deliberate imbalance ensures that Labor and the Coalition maintain a financial stranglehold over elections,” Daniel said.

    Michelle Grattan does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Government-Coalition deal secures sweeping new regime for political donations and spending – https://theconversation.com/government-coalition-deal-secures-sweeping-new-regime-for-political-donations-and-spending-249720

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – EP TODAY, Wednesday, 12 February

    Source: European Parliament 3

    Commission 2025 Work Programme and new competitiveness strategy

    At 9.00, Commissioner Śefčovič will present the Commission’s 2025 work programme, followed by a discussion with MEPs and Polish EU Affairs Minister Szłapka. In an afternoon debate, starting around 14.00, plenary will review the recently tabled proposal for a new competitiveness roadmap, with Commission Vice-President Séjourné and Minister Szłapka.

    Andreas KLEINER

    (+32) 498 98 33 22

    EuroParlPress

    Estefania NARRILLOS

    (+32) 498 98 39 85

    EuroParlPress

    Repression in Russia one year after Navalny’s murder

    MEPs will examine the Kremlin’s continued repression of Russia’s political opposition a year after the murder of Alexei Navalny, in a debate starting around 10.30.

    US withdrawal from WHO and the Paris deal and suspension of external aid

    Starting around 16.30, MEPs and Commissioner Lahbib will debate the consequences of the US Administration’s decision to pull out of the World Health Organisation and the Paris Agreement on climate change, as well as the impact of the suspension of US humanitarian and development aid.

    Dana POPP

    (+32) 470 95 17 07

    EP_Environment

    Thomas HAAHR

    (+32) 470 88 09 87

    EP_Environment

    Eoghan WALSH

    (+32) 485 39 94 43

    EP_Development

    In brief

    Support to EU regions bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine. From around 15.00, plenary will debate with Commission Vice-President Fitto and Minister Szłapka EU support to regions sharing borders with Russia, Belarus and Ukraine.

    Seven years after the Kuciak murders: threats to journalists in the EU. MEPs will assess with Commissioner McGrath the state of media freedom across the EU and discuss how to ensure the protection of journalists.

    Mental health of Europe’s youth. MEPs and Commissioner Micallef will discuss how to tackle increasing mental health issues among European young people.

    Human rights in Türkiye, Nicaragua and Nigeria. MEPs and Commissioner Micallef will consider the recent dismissals and arrests of mayors in Türkiye, repression in Nicaragua and the risk of the death penalty in Nigeria for blasphemy charges. Three draft resolutions will be put to a vote by plenary on Thursday.

    Collaboration between conservatives and far right. In this session’s topical debate at 13.00, MEPs will discuss with Commission Vice-President Séjourné and Polish Minister Szłapka whether collaboration between conservatives and far right threatens competitiveness in the EU.

    Votes

    At noon, plenary will vote, among others, on:

    • New VAT rules for the digital age, and
    • Improved administrative cooperation in the field of taxation.

    Live coverage of the plenary session can be found on Parliament’s webstreaming and on EbS+.

    For detailed information on the session, please also see our newsletter.

    Find more information regarding plenary.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Message of the Holy Father Francis to the President of the French Republic on the occasion of the “AI Action Summit” in Paris

    Source: The Holy See

    Message of the Holy Father Francis to the President of the French Republic on the occasion of the “AI Action Summit” in Paris, 11.02.2025
    The following is the Message sent by the Holy Father Francis to the President of the French Republic, His Excellency Mr. Emmanuel Macron, on the occasion of the AI Action Summit taking place in Paris (10-11 February 2025):

    Message of the Holy Father
    Message of His Holiness Pope Francis
    to the President of the French Republic
    His Excellency Emmanuel Macron
    on the occasion of the
    “Artificial Intelligence Action Summit”
    Paris, 10 to 11 February 2025
    Mr President, Your Excellencies, Distinguished Participants,
    Upon learning of your praiseworthy initiative to convene a Summit on Artificial Intelligence in Paris from 10 to 11 February 2025, I was pleased to see, Mr President, that you chose to devote the Summit to action in the area of artificial intelligence.
    During our meeting in Puglia in the context of the G7, I had occasion to stress the urgent need to “ensure and safeguard a space for proper human control over the choices made by artificial intelligence programmes”. I am convinced that, lacking such control, artificial intelligence, albeit an “exciting” new tool, could show its most “fearsome” side by posing a threat to human dignity (cf. Address to the G7 Session on Artificial Intelligence, 14 June 2024).
    I therefore appreciate the efforts under way to embark with courage and determination upon a political process aimed at defending humanity from a use of artificial intelligence that could “limit our worldview to realities expressible in numbers and enclosed in predetermined categories, thereby excluding the contribution of other forms of truth and imposing uniform anthropological, socio-economic and cultural models” (ibid.). I am likewise pleased that in this Paris Summit you have sought to include the greatest possible number of actors and experts in a reflection meant to produce concrete results.
    In my most recent Encyclical Letter Dilexit Nos, I distinguished between the operation of algorithms and the power of the “heart”, a concept dear to the great philosopher and scientist Blaise Pascal, to whom I devoted an Apostolic Letter on the fourth centenary of his birth (cf. Sublimitas et Miseria Hominis, 19 June 2023). I did so in order to emphasize that, while algorithms can be used to manipulate and mislead, the “heart”, understood as the seat of our deepest and most authentic sentiments, can never deceive (cf. Encyclical Letter Dilexit Nos, 24 October 2024, 14-20).
    I ask all those attending the Paris Summit not to forget that only the human “heart” can reveal the meaning of our existence (cf. Pascal, Pensées, Lafuma 418; Sellier 680). I ask you to take as a given the principle expressed so elegantly by another great French philosopher, Jacques Maritain: “L’amour vaut plus que l’intelligence” (Réflexions sur l’intelligence, 1938).
    Your efforts, dear friends, represent an outstanding example of a healthy politics that situates technological innovations within a greater project that seeks the common good and is thus “open to different opportunities which do not imply stifling human creativity and its ideals of progress, but rather directs that energy along new channels” (Encyclical Letter Laudato Si’, 24 May 2015, 191).
    Artificial intelligence, I believe, can become a powerful tool in the hands of those scientists and experts who cooperate in finding innovative and creative solutions that promote the eco-sustainability of the earth, our common home, while not overlooking the high consumption of energy associated with the operation of artificial intelligence infrastructures.
    In my Message for the 2024 World Day of Peace, which was devoted to artificial intelligence, I insisted that “in debates about the regulation of artificial intelligence, the voices of all stakeholders should be taken into account, including the poor, the powerless and others who often go unheard in global decision-making processes” (cf. Message for the LVII World Day of Peace, 1 January 2024, 8). In this regard, I trust that the Paris Summit will work for the creation of a platform of public interest on artificial intelligence, so that every nation can find in artificial intelligence an instrument for its development and its fight against poverty, but also for the protection of its local cultures and languages. Only in this way will every people on earth be able to contribute to the creation of the data employed by artificial intelligence, so that the latter will reflect the true diversity and richness that is the hallmark of our human family.
    This year, the Holy See’s Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith and the Dicastery for Culture and Education jointly produced a “Note on the Relationship between Artificial Intelligence and Human Intelligence”. That document, published on 28 January last, examines several specific issues concerning artificial intelligence that this Summit is considering, as well as others that I believe to be of particular concern. It is my hope that future Summits will consider in greater detail the social effects of artificial intelligence on human relationships, information and education. Yet the fundamental question is, and will continue to be, human, namely: whether amid these technological advances, “man, as man, is becoming truly better, that is to say, more spiritually mature, more aware of the dignity of his humanity, more responsible, more open to others, especially the neediest and weakest” (cf. John Paul II, Encyclical Letter Redemptor Hominis, 15). Our ultimate challenge will always remain mankind. May we never lose sight of this!
    I thank you, Mr President, and I express my gratitude to all of you who have contributed to this Summit.
    From the Vatican, 7 February 2025
    FRANCIS

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: In 2024, investors purchased more than 250 thousand square meters of non-residential real estate from the city

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Last year, entrepreneurs and individuals purchased more than one and a half thousand commercial real estate properties from the capital. This was reported by the Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Department of City Property Maxim Gaman.

    “In 2024, following the results of auctions and the preemptive right of purchase, investors acquired over 1.7 thousand premises and buildings with a total area of 254.3 thousand square meters from the city. Two-thirds of the objects were sold through electronic auctions, which allowed attracting the maximum number of applicants and revealing the investment potential of the lots,” Maxim Gaman emphasized.

    The new owners use the acquired premises for various types of business activities, including opening offices, cafes, and order pick-up points. This contributes to the development of infrastructure and the creation of jobs in the capital.

    Commercial real estate objects are located in different areas of the city. The most popular with investors were those located in the Central, Western and Southwestern administrative districts. Thus, in the center of Moscow, entrepreneurs and individuals purchased more than 300 non-residential premises with an area of 46.1 thousand square meters, in the west – over 240 with an area of about 28.6 thousand square meters, and in the southwest – about 230 objects with a total area of 34.4 thousand square meters.

    “The opportunity to purchase commercial real estate directly from the city is in demand among entrepreneurs. In 2024, at auctions for the sale of such properties, an average of eight participants bid for one lot,” noted the head of the capital’s Department of Competition Policy

    Kirill Purtov.

    Information about current offers from the city is published onMoscow investment portal. To participate in the auction, you will need registration on the Roseltorg platform and an enhanced qualified electronic signature. The organizer of the auction is Moscow City Department of Competition Policy.

    Development of electronic services for business corresponds to the objectives of the national project “Data Economy and Digital Transformation of the State” and the regional project of the city of Moscow “Digital Public Administration”.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/149985073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 897 old houses have been completely resettled since the beginning of the renovation program

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Since the beginning of the renovation program, residents of more than 1,200 old houses have begun to move or have already moved into new apartments with improved finishing and high-quality repairs. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Urban Development Policy and Construction Vladimir Efimov.

    “Since the start of the renovation program in the capital, residents of 1,208 old houses have begun resettling. 897 of these buildings have already been completely resettled. The pace is growing: if in 2018-2019, 26 buildings were completely resettled, then in 2024 their number reached 307. Completely resettled houses are dismantled using smart demolition technology. New residential complexes with accompanying infrastructure are being built on the vacated sites,” said Vladimir Efimov.

    Thus, in 2020, residents moved out of 56 old buildings, in 2021 – from 69, in 2022 and 2023 – from more than 400 in total.

    “The largest number of houses were completely resettled in the South-Eastern Administrative District – 148 buildings were vacated there. In the east and west of the capital – 130 and 115 respectively. Almost 360 new buildings have been prepared for residents of old houses since the beginning of the renovation program. As part of the creation of a high-quality urban environment, the areas around residential complexes are being improved: comprehensive landscaping is being carried out, children’s and sports playgrounds, recreation areas are being equipped. In addition, video surveillance cameras are being installed for the safety of residents,” added the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of Urban Development Policy

    Vladislav Ovchinsky.

    In exchange for old housing, the city provides participants in the renovation program with comfortable apartments that are no less in area and number of rooms than the previous ones or have a larger area due to more spacious kitchens, corridors and bathrooms.

    According to the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of City Property Maxim Gaman, 148.5 thousand people lived in 897 houses resettled under the renovation program. All of them have already become owners of equivalent housing in new buildings. In the southeast of the capital, more than 26.9 thousand people who lived in 148 old buildings signed contracts for apartments in modern complexes. In the east, more than 20.4 thousand city residents from 130 such houses became new residents. In the west, more than 18.4 thousand Muscovites from 115 resettled buildings received the keys to comfortable apartments.

    The first floors of the constructed complexes are non-residential. They are intended for the placement of social and commercial facilities.

    Previously Mayor of Moscow congratulated The 200,000th resident who has begun resettlement under the renovation program.

    The renovation program was approved in August 2017. It concerns about a million Muscovites and provides for the resettlement of 5,176 houses. Earlier, Sergei Sobyanin instructed to double the pace of implementation of the renovation program.

    Moscow is one of the leaders among regions in terms of construction volumes. High rates of housing construction correspond to the goals and initiatives of the national project “Infrastructure for life”.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/149987073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Massachusetts Man Sentenced to 3 Years for Firearms Theft

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    Ryan Ansart & Damiean Marcial-Alexander stole multiple weapons from Waterville firearms dealer

    BANGOR, Maine:  A West Springfield, Mass. man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Bangor for conspiring to steal firearms from a federally licensed firearms dealer and for stealing those firearms.

    U.S. District Judge Stacey D. Neumann sentenced Ryan Ansart, 22, to three years in prison followed by three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $17,253.37 in restitution. Ansart pleaded guilty on August 22, 2024.

    According to court records, in April 2022, Ansart and coconspirator Damiean Marcial-Alexander broke into a Waterville firearms dealer and stole multiple firearms, including a Glock, Model 17 Gen5 9mm pistol and a Smith & Wesson .38 special revolver. According to an ATF Theft/Loss Report submitted by the store owner, 15 firearms in all were reported stolen, six revolvers and nine semi-automatic pistols. Evidence collected included Instagram and text messages planning the theft, including a map to the location from Marcial-Alexander’s apartment, as well as photos of the two men holding some of the stolen firearms. 

    On February 4, Damiean Marcial-Alexander, (22, Waterville) was sentenced to three years in prison and ordered to pay $17,253.37 in restitution for his role in the conspiracy and theft.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case with assistance from the Waterville Police Department.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI China: Announcement on Open Market Operations No.27 [2025]

    Source: Peoples Bank of China

    Announcement on Open Market Operations No.27 [2025]

    (Open Market Operations Office, February 12, 2025)

    In order to keep liquidity adequate in the banking system, the People’s Bank of China conducted reverse repo operations in the amount of RMB558 billion through quantity bidding at a fixed interest rate on February 12, 2025.

    Details of the Reverse Repo Operations

    Maturity

    Volume

    Rate

    7 days

    RMB558 billion

    1.50%

    Date of last update Nov. 29 2018

    2025年02月12日

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: In China’s Harbin, world’s largest ice-and-snow park draws record visitors

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    HARBIN, Feb. 12 — Harbin Ice-Snow World, the world’s largest ice-and-snow theme park, has welcomed over 3 million visits as of Tuesday, setting a new attendance record just 52 days into its 26th edition, organizers announced.

    Located in Harbin, the capital of northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province and often referred to as the “city of ice,” this year’s park was built with 300,000 cubic meters of ice and snow and features elaborate ice structures inspired by the 9th Asian Winter Games, which Harbin is hosting.

    Beyond its artistic ice sculptures, the park offers a range of interactive winter attractions, including a snowflake ice maze, ice rinks, and a massive ice slide complemented by over 20 smaller ones.

    “It’s freezing, but absolutely stunning! During the day, the ice sculptures glisten like crystals, and at night, dazzling lights transform the park into a winter wonderland,” said Mandizvidza Shalom Zivo, a visitor from Zimbabwe.

    The park covers 1 million square meters, up from 800,000 square meters last year. This is the largest in its 26-year history.

    As an established ice-and-snow theme park, Harbin Ice-Snow World stands out as one of China’s iconic winter attractions. It surged in popularity on Chinese social media last winter, becoming an internet sensation as passion for winter sports and tourism continues to rise across the country.

    “Through this park, we aim to enhance the global reputation of Heilongjiang and Harbin as premier winter destinations,” said Sun Zemin, deputy director of the marketing department at Harbin Ice-Snow World Park Co., Ltd.

    With its booming ice-and-snow tourism, northeast China has gained fresh appeal. Once known as the country’s rustbelt, the region has long struggled with a painful economic transition and talent outflows.

    China aims to boost its ice-and-snow economy as a new source of growth, targeting an economic scale of 1.2 trillion yuan (about 167.34 billion U.S. dollars) by 2027 and 1.5 trillion yuan by 2030, according to guidelines released by the State Council last year.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: JLT Mobile Computers AB (publ) publishes 2024 Year-end report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Växjö, Sweden, 12 February 2025 * * * JLT Mobile Computers, a leading supplier of rugged computers for demanding environments, today publishes its Year-end report for the full year 2024.

    Summary of key figures

    • Order intake MSEK 103.0 (135.4)
    • Net revenues MSEK 118.4 (158.8)
    • EBITDA MSEK -2.1 (4.8)
    • Depreciation and amortization of development expenses MSEK -8.1 (-2.5)
    • Operating profit MSEK -9.7 (1.9)
    • Profit after taxes MSEK -7.7 (1.6)
    • Cashflow +6.8 (-21.5)
    • No dividend is proposed (SEK 0.00)

    In short

    • Challenging macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions resulted in lower-than-normal demand for JLT products, a rough year for JLT as well as for many other industry colleagues where reports of layoffs and closures occurred.
    • Order intake for the year amounted to MSEK 103 compared to MSEK 135 last year, and sales amounted to MSEK 118, a decrease from MSEK 159 last year.
    • Starting to see a recovery in the market – several major deals booked in the US during the first quarter of 2025, of which one for a leading American food producer to a value of MSEK 22 plus service agreements (press release 2025-01-10). The total order intake in Q1 2025 so far exceeds MSEK 40.
    • To create a more cost-effective and market-adapted structure that enables efficient management and customer-driven development of JLT’s software solutions, the operations of the subsidiary JLT Software Solutions AB have been discontinued (press release 2025-01-17). Capitalized development expenses in the company have been written down and, together with other discontinuation costs, impact the group’s results in the fourth quarter by MSEK 5.0, of which MSEK 1.2 affects cash flow. Software development, including the JLT Insights product, has been integrated with the group’s other product development.
    • Development expenses related to Android have been written down by MSEK 1.7, as the product’s sales did not develop as expected.
    • In 2024, organizational and R&D costs were reduced by MSEK 5.4, despite one-time costs of MSEK 1.2. EBITDA ended at MSEK -2.1, compared to MSEK 4.8 the previous year. For 2025, the mentioned measures are expected to provide additional savings of MSEK 1.5 and reduce amortization of development expenses to MSEK 0.5 compared to MSEK 8.1 for 2024.
    • The core products in JLT’s VERSO and JLT1214™ series have been upgraded with new processors and new technology during the year to maintain JLT’s strong market position (press release 2024-06-13: VERSO and press release 2024-10-22: JLT1214).
    • In October, a senior marketing manager with extensive industry experience was recruited to JLT’s American subsidiary to lead marketing and partner strategy in the USA (press release 2024-10-15).
    • The organization in the French subsidiary, JLT France, has been expanded with a salesperson, and a planned generational shift in leadership has been carried out (press release 2024-10-01).
    • As a result of strategic measures implemented during 2024, inventory was reduced by 6.9 MSEK. Cash flow was positively impacted, and JLT added 6.8 MSEK to its cash reserves. Inventory is expected to be gradually reduced further during 2025.
    • 2024 marked an important milestone for JLT, celebrating 30 years as an innovator of rugged computer solutions (press release 2024-12-12). Since its inception in 1994, JLT has been part of the extensive transformation that the rugged IT solutions industry has undergone.        

    The full interim report is attached to this press release and available for download at the company’s website, jltmobile.com. Additional financial information is available online on JLT’s investor pages.

    This information is information that JLT Mobile Computers AB (pub) is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation and the Securities Markets Act. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact persons set out below, at 08:00 pm CET on Wednesday, February 12, 2025.

    About JLT Mobile Computers

    JLT Mobile Computers is a leading supplier of rugged mobile computing devices and solutions for demanding environments. 30 years of development and manufacturing experience have enabled JLT to set the standard in rugged computing, combining outstanding product quality with expert service, support and solutions to ensure trouble-free business operations for customers in warehousing, transportation, manufacturing, mining, ports and agriculture. JLT operates globally from offices in Sweden, France, and the US, complemented by an extensive network of sales partners in local markets. The company was founded in 1994, and the share has been listed on the Nasdaq First North Growth Market stock exchange since 2002 under the symbol JLT. Eminova Fondkommission AB acts as Certified Adviser. Learn more at jltmobile.com.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: New Sampo shares issued in the share split registered with the Finnish Trade Register

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Sampo plc, stock exchange release, 12 February 2025 at 8:30 am EET

    New Sampo shares issued in the share split registered with the Finnish Trade Register

    Sampo plc announced on 5 February 2025 the resolution by the Board of Directors of Sampo on a share split by way of a share issue without consideration in proportion to shares owned by shareholders. The new Sampo A and B shares are issued to shareholders in proportion to their existing holdings on the record day of the share issuance on 12 February 2025, so that four (4) new A shares are issued for each existing A share and four (4) new B shares are issued for each existing B share. After the share split, shareholders will have five Sampo shares for each old existing Sampo share. The new shares have been registered with the Finnish Trade Register today, 12 February 2025.

    In total, 2,152,191,088 new Sampo A shares and 800,000 new B shares were issued in the share split. Following the registration of the new shares, Sampo’s total share count amounts to 2,691,238,860 shares. The total number of A shares is 2,690,238,860 and the total number of votes attached to these shares is 2,690,238,860. The total number of B shares is 1,000,000 and the total number of votes attached to the shares is 5,000,000.

    Trading in the new A shares on Nasdaq Helsinki, Nasdaq Stockholm (in the form of Swedish depository receipts) and Nasdaq Copenhagen (in the form of share entitlements) is expected to commence on or about 13 February 2025. However, the new Swedish depository receipts are expected to be available on the accounts in Euroclear Sweden on or about 14 February 2025. The share split does not require any action from shareholders nor holders of Swedish depository receipts. The share split will not affect Sampo’s ISIN codes.

    SAMPO PLC
    Investors Relations and Group Communications

    For further information, please contact:

    Sami Taipalus
     Head of Investor Relations
    tel. +358 10 516 0030

    Distribution:
    Nasdaq Helsinki
    Nasdaq Stockholm
    Nasdaq Copenhagen
    London Stock Exchange
    FIN-FSA
    The principal media
    www.sampo.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Year End Report 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Highlights

    • The Company added a total of 50 GWh of annual long-term proportionate power generation through acquisitions in 2024, reflecting a five percent increase in long-term power generation, of which 20 GWh was added in the fourth quarter.
    • Power generation amounted to 907 GWh for the year, in line with the updated outlook, and power generation of 287 GWh during the fourth quarter marks the Company’s highest ever quarterly production.
    • Reached the ready-to-permit milestone for the Company’s first large-scale project in the UK, a 1.4 GW solar and 500 MW battery project, and initiated a sales process to assess divestment options.
    • Achieved carbon neutrality for Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions.

    Consolidated financials – 12 months

    • Cash flows from investing activities amounted to MEUR 32.6 and was positively impacted by the sale of the Leikanger hydropower plant in the second quarter.
    • Cash flows from operating activities amounted to MEUR -6.3.

    Proportionate financials – 12 months

    • Achieved electricity price amounted to EUR 34 per MWh, which resulted in a proportionate EBITDA of MEUR 7.0.
    • Proportionate net debt of MEUR 65.0, with significant liquidity headroom available through the MEUR 170 revolving credit facility.

    Financial Summary

    Orrön Energy owns renewables assets directly and through joint ventures and associated companies and is presenting proportionate financials to show the net ownership and related results of these assets. The purpose of the proportionate reporting is to give an enhanced insight into the Company’s operational and financial results.

    Expressed in MEUR

    		 1 Jan 2024-
    31 Dec 2024
    12 months    		 1 Oct 2024-
    31 Dec 2024
    3 months    		 1 Jan 2023-
    31 Dec 2023
    12 months    		 1 Oct 2023-
    31 Dec 2023
    3 months
    Consolidated financials        
    Revenue 25.7 7.1 28.0 8.4
    EBITDA -1.6 -2.5 -5.1 -0.9
    Operating profit (EBIT) -17.5 -6.3 -17.0 -4.4
    Net result -13.3 -6.6 -7.6 8.0
    Earnings per share – EUR -0.05 -0.02 -0.03 0.03
    Earnings per share diluted – EUR -0.05 -0.02 -0.03 0.03
    Proportionate financials1        
    Power generation (GWh) 907 287 765 226
    Average price achieved per MWh – EUR 34 30 47 43
    Operating expenses per MWh – EUR 17 14 18 16
    Revenue 30.7 8.7 36.2 9.6
    EBITDA 7.0 0.1 5.3 1.3
    Operating profit (EBIT) -12.9 -4.8 -11.0 -3.2

    1 Proportionate financials represent Orrön Energy’s proportionate ownership (net) of assets and related financial results, including joint ventures. For more details see section Key Financial Data in the Year End Report 2024.

    Comment from Daniel Fitzgerald, CEO of Orrön Energy AB
    “2024 marks another year of good progress despite challenging market conditions. We added around 50 GWh of long-term annual power generation through value-accretive acquisitions in Sweden, strengthened our balance sheet with the sale of the Leikanger hydropower asset, and launched our first sales process in the UK having reached the ready-to-permit stage on a project with 1.4 GW solar generation capacity and a 500 MW battery. In response to the volatile market conditions experienced in 2024, we initiated voluntary production curtailments across a portion of our portfolio, and started providing ancillary services to the market via some of our windfarms. These initiatives have helped us to reduce the impact of negatively priced hours and take advantage of alternative revenue streams. We remain focused on delivering profitable growth and are consistently looking for ways to improve performance during challenging market environments.

    Proportionate power generation amounted to 907 GWh for the year, which was in line with our updated outlook. We delivered a record quarterly power generation of 287 GWh in the fourth quarter, despite the impact of voluntary production curtailments during periods of low electricity prices. While the overall power generation in 2024 was impacted by lower-than-average wind speeds, we hope to see more normalised weather conditions in 2025, following four consecutive years of wind speeds below the historical long-term average. Taking into account this variability, the acquisitions made in 2024, and the potential for future curtailment, we expect our power generation in 2025 to be between 900 and 1,050 GWh, which gives some margin both for weather and market conditions.

    Capitalising on market opportunities
    The renewable energy industry continued to face headwinds in 2024, as elevated interest rates, inflation, and periods of low electricity prices led to downward pressures on valuations and stock prices across the sector. Uncertainty in the US and political shifts across Europe further impacted investor confidence regarding the pace and support for the energy transition. However, the long-term fundamentals for renewable energy remain strong, where onshore wind and solar continue to have the lowest breakeven cost by a significant margin compared to other sources. Despite political or economic headwinds, these investments are poised to stand the test of time. We maintained our strategic focus, adding over 50 GWh of long-term proportionate power generation in 2024 at a cost of less than 0.5 MEUR per MW. We have now replaced 50 percent of the production sold of the Leikanger asset, at a significantly lower unit cost, demonstrating a highly accretive and efficient recycling of capital.

    In the Nordics, electricity prices remained highly volatile, which impacted our financial results. This was largely driven by periods of oversupply due to lower seasonal demand, high hydrological balances, elevated gas storage and surplus electricity from interconnected European markets. Looking ahead, energy demand is forecast to grow, fuelled by GDP growth, continued electrification and increased power needs for data centres and artificial intelligence.

    First UK project reached ready-to-permit stage, sales process commenced
    We continued advancing our project development platform in the fourth quarter, and I am excited to announce that we achieved a significant milestone by having our first large-scale project in the UK reach the ready-to-permit stage. The project is a 1.4 GW solar and 500 MW co-located battery development, and we have initiated a sales process to evaluate divestment options. This is the first project from our pipeline to reach this milestone, and we expect to have a number of follow-on projects reaching the same stage in 2025 both in the UK and Germany. In the UK, two key regulatory reforms are currently ongoing; the Clean Power 2030 Action Plan and the grid connections reform. Both aim to simplify and enhance the ability for renewable energy projects to obtain a grid connection more efficiently based on zonal capacity expectations. These reforms have had an impact on our prioritisation of projects and created some uncertainty for investors in the UK, and we will continue to monitor developments aiming to ensure our projects remain well-positioned in this evolving regulatory landscape.

    Financially resilient
    We remain in a financially robust position, with liquidity headroom exceeding MEUR 100. Proportionate revenues and other income amounted to MEUR 8.9 for the fourth quarter and MEUR 42.1 for the year, which was impacted by low electricity prices, resulting in a proportionate EBITDA of MEUR 0.1 for the fourth quarter and MEUR 7.0 for the year. Our full-year expenditure guidance for 2025 remains largely in line with 2024 and the business strategy remains unchanged as we enter the new year.

    Entering the next chapter of growth
    Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, I believe this will be a transformational period for Orrön Energy on many fronts. The Nordic business continues its organic growth with a good pipeline of projects, 1,000 GWh of long-term proportionate power generation and plenty of acquisition opportunities. The UK and German teams are rapidly reaching key milestones and we expect to see results from our project sales throughout 2025, with a material pipeline of opportunities to follow. We have now passed the halfway point of the Sudan legal case, and expect the District Court trial to finish during the second quarter of 2026, which will significantly reduce our future legal costs and positively impact our financial results thereafter. With the end of the Sudan trial in sight and our two organic growth platforms running, we can now start shaping the next strategic growth chapter for our business, and over the next year we will explore new opportunities to expand our portfolio and unlock additional value for our shareholders. I would like to thank our shareholders for their continued support and look forward to sharing updates on the exciting growth opportunities that lie ahead of us.”

    Webcast
    Listen to Daniel Fitzgerald, CEO and Espen Hennie, CFO commenting on the report and presenting the latest developments in Orrön Energy and its future growth strategy together with members of Orrön Energy’s management team at a webcast during the Company’s Capital Markets Day today at 14.00 CET. The presentation will be followed by a question-and-answer session.

    Follow the presentation live on the below webcast link:
    https://orron-energy.events.inderes.com/cmd-2025

    For further information, please contact:

    Robert Eriksson
    Corporate Affairs and Investor Relations
    Tel: +46 701 11 26 15
    robert.eriksson@orron.com

    Jenny Sandström
    Communications Lead
    Tel: +41 79 431 63 68
    jenny.sandstrom@orron.com

    Orrön Energy is an independent, publicly listed (Nasdaq Stockholm: “ORRON”) renewable energy company within the Lundin Group of Companies. Orrön Energy’s core portfolio consists of high quality, cash flow generating assets in the Nordics, coupled with greenfield growth opportunities in the Nordics, the UK, Germany and France. With financial capacity to fund further growth and acquisitions, and backed by a major shareholder, management and Board with a proven track record of investing into, leading and growing highly successful businesses, Orrön Energy is in a unique position to create shareholder value through the energy transition.

    This information is information that Orrön Energy AB is required to make public pursuant to the Securities Markets Act. The information was submitted for publication, through the contact persons set out above, at 07.30 CET on 12 February 2025.

    Forward-looking statements
    Statements in this press release relating to any future status or circumstances, including statements regarding future performance, growth and other trend projections, are forward-looking statements. These statements may generally, but not always, be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “intend”, “plan”, “seek”, “will”, “would” or similar expressions. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risk and uncertainty because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that could occur in the future. There can be no assurance that actual results will not differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements due to several factors, many of which are outside the company’s control. Any forward-looking statements in this press release speak only as of the date on which the statements are made and the company has no obligation (and undertakes no obligation) to update or revise any of them, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

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  • MIL-OSI: Aktia Bank Plc directs share issue to the company itself without payment

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Aktia Bank Plc
    Stock Exchange Release
    12 February 2025 at 8.15 a.m.

    Aktia Bank Plc directs share issue to the company itself without payment

    The Board of Directors of Aktia Bank Plc has, pursuant to the share issue authorization granted by the Annual General Meeting held on 3 April 2024, resolved on an issue of 180,000 new shares to the company itself without payment. The new shares to be issued to the company will be used for reward payments under the company’s incentive programs.

    The total number of the company’s shares after the share issue is 73,161,696 shares, of which 234,834 shares in total are held by the company.

    The new shares will be entered into the Trade Register approximately on 20 February 2025 and will be applied for public trading on Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd approximately as of 21 February 2025.

    Aktia Bank Plc

    Further information:
    Oscar Taimitarha, Director, Investor Relations, tel. +358 40 562 2315, ir (at) aktia.fi

    Distribution:
    Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
    Mass media
    www.aktia.com

    Aktia is a Finnish asset manager, bank and life insurer that has been creating wealth and wellbeing from one generation to the next for 200 years. We serve our customers in digital channels everywhere and face-to-face in our offices in the Helsinki, Turku, Tampere, Vaasa and Oulu regions. Our award-winning asset management business sells investment funds internationally. We employ approximately 850 people around Finland. Aktia’s assets under management (AuM) on 31 December 2024 amounted to EUR 14.0 billion, and the balance sheet total was EUR 11.9 billion. Aktia’s shares are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd (AKTIA). aktia.com.

    The MIL Network –