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  • MIL-OSI: MEXC Launches STORY (IP) Launchpool & Airdrop+, Offering 68,500 IP & 50,000 USDT in Bonuses

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, Feb. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC, the world’s leading cryptocurrency trading platform, is excited to announce the launch of its Launchpool initiative in collaboration with the renowned blockchain project STORY (IP). This initiative highlights the close partnership between MEXC and STORY, showcasing their joint efforts to expand the STORY network. By introducing two major events—a Launchpool featuring a 60,000 IP reward pool and an Airdrop+ offering 8,500 IP plus 50,000 USDT—this collaboration further accelerates the growth of the STORY network while driving innovation in the blockchain space.

    MEXC Supports the STORY Network with the Launch of IP Launchpool

    In the digital age, traditional intellectual property (IP) management faces growing challenges. Centralized platforms and complicated intermediaries often lead to inefficiencies, high costs, and trust issues for creators. As a Layer 1 blockchain built with Cosmos SDK, STORY combines DeFi and AI technologies to offer automated, transparent, and cost-effective IP management solutions. With full EVM compatibility and a modular architecture, STORY empowers creators to tokenize their IP assets, automate royalties, and simplify licensing processes. MEXC’s support of the STORY network highlights the growing importance of such innovations in blockchain.

    As a global leader in digital asset trading, MEXC consistently supports innovative blockchain projects. Its Launchpool initiative with STORY reaffirms this commitment. This collaboration not only strengthens the STORY ecosystem but also empowers global creators and developers to explore the potential of decentralized IP management. MEXC’s broad market coverage and strong liquidity offer the environment for blockchain projects like STORY to thrive and bring new possibilities to the digital economy. By allowing users to stake USDT, MX, and IP tokens to earn rewards, MEXC provides a platform for increased exposure and growth for STORY. Visit the STORY (IP) pre-market page to see this innovation in action.

    Celebrate the IP Launchpool & Airdrop+ with a Prize Pool of 68,500 IP & 50,000 USDT

    As a pioneer in the cryptocurrency industry, MEXC continues to foster innovation and support emerging blockchain ecosystems. MEXC is hosting two major STORY (IP) events: the Airdrop+ event, running from February 12, 2025, 10:00 (UTC) to February 26, 2025, 10:00 (UTC), featuring 8,500 IP plus 50,000 USDT in rewards, and the Launchpool, taking place from February 12, 2025, 10:00 (UTC) to February 15, 2025, 10:00 (UTC), with a 60,000 IP reward pool. These initiatives underscore MEXC’s ongoing commitment to advancing blockchain innovation and delivering valuable opportunities to the crypto community.

    These activities include:

    • Event 1: IP Launchpool – Stake USDT, MX & IP to Share 60,000 IP
    • Event 2: Join Airdrop+ to Share 8,500 IP & 50,000 USDT bonus
    • Perk 1: Deposit and Share 5,600 IP (New User Exclusive).
      Perk 2: Spot Challenge – Trade to Share 1,700 IP.
      Perk 3: Futures Challenge – Trade to Share 50,000 USDT in Futures Bonuses.
      Perk 4: Invite New Users and Share 1,200 IP.

    MEXC continues to expand its market share in the centralized exchange space, leveraging its first-mover advantage in listing promising and valuable projects. As one of the leading cryptocurrency exchanges, with its commitment to innovation, user-centric approach, and strategic focus on early-stage token listings, MEXC remains at the forefront of the crypto industry, providing strong access to the rapidly growing blockchain ecosystem.

    About MEXC

    Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto”. Serving over 30 million users across 170+ countries, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, frequent airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding.
    MEXC Official Website｜ X ｜ Telegram ｜How to Sign Up on MEXC

    Contact:
    Lucia Hu
    PR Manager
    lucia.hu@mexc.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by MEXC. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2a2e22b1-397a-4227-8c4b-fe594bb87d87

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: NNIT A/S: Publication of financial estimates gathered from equity analysts covering the NNIT share

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Today, NNIT has published financial estimates gathered from the four equity analysts covering the NNIT share ahead of the Q4/FY 2024 announcement scheduled for publication on February 18.

    The analyst estimates is available on NNIT’s investor site through this link: https://www.nnit.com/investors-media/investors/share/analyst-coverage/

    NNIT will host its webcast about the Q4/FY 2024 results on February 19 at 9:30 AM CET. Details can be found via this link: https://www.nnit.com/investors-media/investors/calendar/

    For more information, please contact:

    Investor Relations
    Carsten Ringius
    EVP & CFO
    Tel: +45 3077 8888
    carr@nnit.com

    Media Relations
    Sofie Mand Steffens
    Senior Communications Consultant
    Tel: +45 3077 8337
    smst@nnit.com

    ABOUT NNIT
    NNIT is a leading provider of IT solutions to life sciences internationally, and to the public and private sectors in Denmark.

    We focus on high complexity industries and thrive in environments where regulatory demands and complexity are high.

    We advise on and build sustainable digital solutions that work for the patients, citizens, employees, end users or customers.

    We strive to build unmatched excellence in the industries we serve, and we use our domain expertise to represent a business first approach – strongly supported by a selection of partner technologies, but always driven by business needs rather than technology.

    NNIT consists of group company NNIT A/S and the subsidiary SCALES. Together, these companies employ more than 1,700 people in Europe, Asia and USA.  

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Calfrac Well Services Ltd. 2024 Fourth Quarter Earnings Release, Conference Call and Webcast

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, Feb. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Calfrac Well Services Ltd. (“Calfrac”) (TSX:CFW) intends to release its 2024 fourth quarter results before the market opens on Thursday, March 13, 2025, and has scheduled a conference call to begin at 10:00 A.M. MT (12:00 P.M. ET) on the same day.

    Financial Statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis will be posted onto Calfrac’s website and on SEDAR+ after the press release has been disseminated.

    A webcast of the conference call can be accessed through the link below:

    https://onlinexperiences.com/Launch/QReg/ShowUUID=DE553537-723A-44F8-837E-F9A9689F3C2F&LangLocaleID=1033

    A replay of the conference call will also be available on Calfrac’s website for at least 90 days.

    To participate in the Q&A session, you may dial-in (toll free) 1-800-717-1738 (or at 1-646-307-1865 for international participants) fifteen (15) minutes prior to the start of the call and ask for the Calfrac Well Services Ltd. 2024 Third Quarter Earnings Release Conference Call to register.

    About Calfrac:

    Calfrac’s common shares are publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the trading symbol “CFW”.

    Calfrac provides specialized oilfield services to exploration and production companies designed to increase the production of hydrocarbons from wells with continuing operations focused throughout North America and Argentina. The Company executes on its brand promise of “Do It Safely, Do It Right, Do It Profitably” to generate long-term, sustainable returns for its shareholders.

    Further information regarding Calfrac Well Services Ltd., including the most recently filed Annual Information Form, can be accessed on Calfrac’s website at www.calfrac.com or under the Company’s public filings found at www.sedarplus.ca.

    For further information on this conference call, please contact:

    Michael Olinek
    Chief Financial Officer
    (403) 234-6673

    Suite 500, 407 – 8 Avenue S.W.
    Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2P 1E5
    Website: www.calfrac.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Jitterbit’s Next AI Infusion: Build, Manage, Modify Business Applications with Natural Language Processing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ALAMEDA, Calif., Feb. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Jitterbit, a global leader in accelerating business transformation for enterprise systems, today announced its latest AI-infused capabilities within the Harmony platform, advancing AI from low-code development to natural language processing (NLP). With NLP, technical barriers are removed and users can create, modify, and expose APIs, as well as build, monitor, and manage complex applications — all through natural language commands.

    “AI acts as a bridge between IT and line-of-business users, fostering true collaboration across the enterprise,” said Jitterbit President and CEO Bill Conner. “By infusing AI natural language processing into the Harmony platform, we’re simplifying the building, integrating, connecting, and exposing of applications. What were once isolated applications now become interconnected enterprise systems, enabling seamless connections and integrations to enterprise-wide processes.”

    “AI is no longer just a tool — it’s the catalyst for seamless, end-to-end automation that drives innovation at every level of business,” said Antonio Cisternino, CIO and Professor of Computer Science at the University of Pisa. “With Jitterbit’s new AI capabilities, organizations can now gain a holistic view of their data, powered by enterprise systems that are fully automated from end to end, driving smarter decisions and accelerating business outcomes in a controlled way.”

    Building on its vision for advancing AI, Jitterbit’s integration of NLP technology into its unified, AI-infused low-code Harmony platform makes it even easier for users to automate applications and workflows by significantly reducing the development time and effort required to develop applications, manage APIs and integrate complex enterprise systems.

    “By eliminating the need for traditional coding, NLP makes developing applications, building and managing APIs, and integrating complex workflows accessible to everyone, regardless of technical expertise,” said Jitterbit CTO Manoj Chaudhary. “This advancement is a critical milestone on the path toward agentic AI, where systems can intelligently adapt, learn, and execute autonomously.”

    New Jitterbit AI Assistants Accelerate Application, API Management

    Jitterbit’s new AI-infused capabilities redefine how users leverage the Harmony platform to generate code faster and accelerate innovation.

    “Users can use simple natural language to create actionable code, enabling them to develop, manage, and integrate applications and systems seamlessly across the business — saving hundreds of hours in the process,” said Chaudhary.

    • AI-Infused App Builder Assistant: An AI assistant designed to effortlessly create new applications and manage and modify existing ones using natural language. This feature is now in beta and available to Jitterbit customers. General availability is planned for Q2 2025.
    • AI-Infused API Manager: Jitterbit API Manager empowers users to create APIs using an AI assistant to simplify API development and accelerate time to value. A beta program for this feature is now available with general availability planned for Jitterbit customers in Q2 2025.
    • AskJB AI: An intelligent assistant providing real-time answers, guidance, and information is generally available within the Harmony platform and Jitterbit Documentation.

    Jitterbit Introduces New Observability Tools, Cloud Datastore and Security Standards

    Building on its AI-infused capabilities, Jitterbit introduced new observability and cloud storage features as well as new security certifications in the Harmony platform — designed to give organizations unmatched visibility, streamlined data management, and enhanced protection for their critical business processes.

    • Agent Observability for Integration Performance Optimization: offers real-time visibility into the performance and behavior of private agents deployed on customer-managed servers, within firewalls, or in virtual private clouds. With pre-built dashboards for Datadog and Elasticsearch, customers can access over 50 key metrics to gain deeper operational insights addressing anomalies before they disrupt operations. A beta is now open to Jitterbit customers.
    • Cloud Datastore for Streamlined Integration Data Management: Cloud Datastore is a cloud-based storage solution that allows users to store, manage, and retrieve data within their integration workflows. It acts as a central repository for data that various Jitterbit applications, APIs and integrations built on the Harmony platform can access. The Cloud Datastore is typically used to persist data for applications that require seamless data exchange or for integrations that need temporary or long-term storage of structured or unstructured data. Cloud Datastore also is GDPR-compliant for the European Union (EU). A beta is coming to Jitterbit customers in Q1 2025.
    • Elevated Security Standards: Building on its layered security foundation, Jitterbit has attained new security certifications, including ISO 27017 and ISO 27018 compliance, along with NZISM certification for New Zealand and Australia. These certifications ensure that Jitterbit meets the highest global security standards.

    Beta Access for Jitterbit Customers

    Jitterbit customers who are interested in participating in the beta programs may contact product@jitterbit.com.

    Jitterbit Harmony
    Jitterbit Harmony is a unified AI-infused low-code platform for integration, orchestration, automation, and app development that accelerates business transformation. Consisting of iPaaS (Integration Platform as a Service), API Management, App Builder (low-code application development), EDI (Electronic Data Interchange), Harmony empowers IT teams and line-of-business groups to quickly become more productive, efficient, and responsive, leading to reduced organizational friction, improved efficiency, and better business outcomes.

    About Jitterbit Inc.
    For organizations ready to modernize and innovate, Jitterbit provides a unified AI-infused low-code platform for integration, orchestration, automation, and app development that accelerates business transformation, boosts productivity, and unlocks value. The Jitterbit Harmony platform, including iPaaS, API Manager, App Builder and EDI, future-proofs operations, simplifies complexity and drives innovation for organizations globally. Learn more at www.jitterbit.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

    Media Contact:
    Laura Hunter
    Senior Director of Communications
    Jitterbit
    Laura.Hunter@jitterbit.com
    310-344-6426

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Principality of Andorra: Staff Concluding Statement of the 2025 Article IV Mission

    Source: International Monetary Fund

    February 11, 2025

    A Concluding Statement describes the preliminary findings of IMF staff at the end of an official staff visit (or ‘mission’), in most cases to a member country. Missions are undertaken as part of regular (usually annual) consultations under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, in the context of a request to use IMF resources (borrow from the IMF), as part of discussions of staff monitored programs, or as part of other staff monitoring of economic developments.

    The authorities have consented to the publication of this statement. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    Andorra La Vella – February 11, 2025

    The Andorran economy is doing well. This provides a window of opportunity to address substantial long-term challenges. The authorities have consolidated the country’s macro-financial framework and reinforced buffers. However, Andorra’s real GDP per capita—while high in absolute terms—has remained flat over the last 50 years, with growth largely driven by population increases. Going forward, population aging is both an economic and a fiscal concern, and climate change challenges an economic model largely dependent on winter tourism. Ambitious structural reforms are needed to unlock investment and lift productivity.

    Economic Outlook

    The Andorra economy continues to show resilience and to grow above its potential. Growth in 2024 surprised slightly on the upside, at an estimated 2.1 percent, driven by the service, banking and construction sectors. Inflation is subsiding gradually, reaching 2.6 percent at the end of 2024, despite limited economic slack and a still tight labor market. The current account surplus remains very large, estimated at 15.1 percent of GDP in 2024. The strong performance of banks continued in 2024 supported by high interest margins and increased fees and commissions.

    Going forward, GDP is expected to slow to the level of potential growth. Real GDP growth is forecasted at 1.7 percent in 2025 and 1.5 percent from 2027 onwards. Inflation is projected to stabilize at 1.7 percent over the medium term. Short-term risks are balanced: greater uncertainty in the global economy and the potential for adverse shocks such as deepening geoeconomic fragmentation, supply disruptions, recurrent commodity price fluctuations and a reversal of monetary policy loosening are downside risks to growth and inflation. On the upside, Andorra, like other service-oriented economies in Europe, could benefit from stronger demand, and grow faster than projected. Solid buffers mitigate risks.

    Challenges are concentrated over the medium-term, as stagnating income growth makes it challenging to address the impact of population aging and climate change. With long life expectancy and low fertility rates, Andorra’s population is expected to age rapidly—removing an engine for GDP growth and creating fiscal liabilities over the long term. Fiscal costs from pensions and healthcare will be substantial. More frequent climate shocks can affect the economic cycle in an economy largely reliant on winter tourism, and structurally warmer temperatures will require extensive adaptation.

    Policy priorities

    The solid macroeconomic position and the credibility of the policy framework provide Andorra with an opportunity for implementing far-reaching structural reforms. Diversifying the economy to enhance resilience, unlocking investment and lifting productivity to raise income levels, and addressing the costs of aging and climate change should be driving the policy agenda. The recently negotiated EU Association Agreement (EUAA), if approved by referendum, could offer an opportunity to support the reform momentum, but would also bring challenges.

    Maintaining a solid fiscal framework given spending pressures over the medium term

    Maintaining a disciplined fiscal policy within the fiscal framework is important and will provide room for more public investment. In a microstate that needs fiscal buffers against external shocks, entrenching fiscal space is important. In addition, the credibility of the fiscal framework and the primary surplus provide room for higher public investment to support potential growth and mitigate structural bottlenecks.

    • A balanced 2025 budget focused on economic priorities. The 2025 budget finds a welcome balance between maintaining a conservative fiscal stance but building on the authorities’ structural priorities, with a focus on health, housing, maintaining purchasing power, and education. Overall, the 2025 budget foresees a deficit of 0.9 percent of GDP. Given past practice of adjusting expenditures in line with incoming revenues, staff forecasts a small surplus of about 0.3 percent of GDP.
    • Room for growth-enhancing public spending. The fiscal framework, which prescribes an overall deficit limit of 1 percent of GDP and a central government debt ceiling of 40 percent of GDP, provides room for higher public spending targeted towards growth-enhancing investment. Spending should be focused on the structural needs of the economy: social and affordable housing, upskilling the workforce and addressing labor shortages, connectivity to support economic diversification, and investments to lift potential growth. As under-execution of budgeted public investment is customary, delivering on investment plans should be a policy objective.

    Over the medium term, Andorra faces rising spending pressures from aging, as well as a need to adapt to climate change—engaging reforms early is paramount. Staff estimates that by 2050, pension system expenditures will rise by 6.7 percentage points while healthcare expenditures will increase by 2 percentage points. Acting early on pension and healthcare reforms is needed to anticipate and mitigate the fiscal impact of aging.

    • Pension reform has been on the government’s agenda for some time and is overdue. The menu of options to put the system on the sustainable path is well understood, from increasing contribution rates and reducing conversion rates to increasing the retirement age. Concluding the reform in an expeditious and comprehensive manner is needed to ensure the sustainability of the social security fund in the long run.
    • A reform of the healthcare system should aim to contain long-term costs while raising healthcare revenues . Experience from other advanced economies provides a blueprint for potential measures, in 4 areas: (i) enhance cost efficiency, (ii) strengthen preventive care, (iii) increase revenues for healthcare while preserving equity, and (iv) improve governance. The National Pact brought together stakeholders and should continue its work to strengthen the healthcare system.

    · Beyond direct policies in the pension and healthcare areas, broader measures would be helpful to buffer the additional long-term fiscal costs of aging. Domestic revenue mobilization and migration policies can help.

    • Climate change also exposes the government to future contingent liabilities. Public investment needs to increase to meet Andorra’s climate change mitigation targets and to provide adequate support to the adaptation of the private sector. In addition, fiscal space will be increasingly needed to buffer the negative impact of climate shocks.

    Precautionary borrowing and a rapid reduction in public debt provide the authorities with flexibility in managing the debt profile. The authorities are reaping the benefits of an effective debt management strategy that is projected to bring public debt down to 30 percent of GDP by 2026, that lengthened its maturity to 6.3 years and that keeps public debt service low. The authorities should continue to monitor market conditions for an upcoming debt maturity of €500 million public bonds in 2027, including for further diversifying debt and extending its maturity to decrease rollover risks and mitigate consequences from potential increases in interest rates.

    Consolidating banking performance in a changing environment

    Strengthening further the resilience of the banking system during periods of high profitability is appropriate. The banking sector displays solid fundamentals, with large capital and liquidity buffers. However, given the large size of the banking sector, the supervisor should remain vigilant. Available supervisory tools should complement each other, including by supporting the lender of last resort facility introduced in 2022 by continued close supervision and a well-designed resolution framework to ensure that critical problems are identified and addressed early. The activation of a countercyclical capital buffer in 2024 was timely to increase banking system resilience during high bank profitability.

    The changing financial landscape, notably with the continued international expansion of banks and a possible EUAA, brings opportunities and challenges for Andorran banks. Banks have been growing in the EU where they run independent subsidiaries focused on private banking services, and the EUAA would facilitate this expansion, notably in the asset management business. Domestically, the EUAA has the potential to create a more dynamic domestic market but also to open Andorra to greater competition. The authorities should work closely with banks to prepare for the transition and safeguard financial stability.

    Ambitious structural reforms to unlock investment and lift productivity, support the diversification of the economy and help mitigate climate change.

    A comprehensive set of structural measures is important and should focus on the following:

    • Addressing frictions, notably labor and housing shortages. Public investment in education and well-designed immigration policies can improve knowledge capital in Andorra and raise labor productivity. Multiple housing measures were implemented recently—including the extension of existing rental contracts, the creation of a public affordable housing park, tax incentives for owners who offer affordable housing, suspension of tourist accommodation licenses, fees on empty houses and on real estate purchases by foreigners. The authorities should aim at providing market-based incentives for investing in affordable housing while minimizing distortions.
    • Creating a business environment conducive to higher investment. Recommendations encompass reducing administrative rigidities associated with doing business in Andorra, promoting access to financing, and implementing measures to attract and retain talent.
    • Supporting the development of higher value-added sectors, including the digital economy. With limited space for manufacturing, Andorra can look at the experience of peer countries that have successfully diversified towards the digital economy. Government policies, including the 2022 Law on the digital economy, entrepreneurship, and innovation and the Digitalization Strategy 2020-2030 were welcome initial steps.

    The EUAA could provide further momentum for reforms towards diversification, unlock investment, and raise productivity in Andorra, but is not without its own challenges. The agreement signals a strong commitment to deeper integration with the EU and to reinforce Andorran institutions in their coherence with EU standards. Empirical evidence on the benefits of EU membership provides useful lessons for EU association. It suggests that while the impact can be significant and positive, it builds up over time, and is conditional on well-designed domestic reforms during the accession period. While the impact varies with country-specific circumstances, it materializes through a few channels: structural reforms in the period preceding accession/association, greater capital accumulation, notably FDI, and higher productivity. In Andorra, room for increasing investment and productivity is substantial. Transition periods for key sectors such as telecom and banking mitigate the risks of disruption and fiscal space can cover transition costs. Preparedness is essential to realize the benefits of association, and reduce potential downsides, such as greater regional competition.

    The climate adaptation strategy needs to be accelerated given the macrocriticality of global warming for Andorra. Because of its higher altitude, Andorra is less exposed than other winter tourism locations in the region and should use this window of opportunity to enact needed policies, support the development of higher value-added service sectors and diversify away from winter tourism. The authorities should expedite the development and execution of a climate adaptation strategy.

    *

    The mission thanks the authorities and all our counterparts for a constructive and candid policy dialogue, for engaging in a productive and transparent collaboration, and for their hospitality during the official visit of the IMF to Andorra.

    Andorra: Selected Social and Economic Indicators

    I. Social Indicators

    Population (2023)

    85101

    Population at risk of poverty (percent, 2020)

    13

    Per capita income (2023, euros)

    40511

    Human Development Index Rank (2021)

    40 (out of 189)

    Gini Index (2020)

    32

    Life expectancy at birth (2024)

    83.9

    II. Economic Indicators

    Projections

    2022

    2023

    2024

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    NATIONAL ACCOUNTS AND PRICES

    (annual change, percent, unless otherwise indicated)

    Real GDP

    9.6

    2.6

    2.1

    1.7

    1.6

    1.5

    1.5

    1.5

    1.5

    Nominal GDP

    14.2

    9.0

    5.0

    3.7

    3.4

    3.3

    3.2

    3.2

    3.2

    GDP deflator

    4.2

    6.3

    2.9

    1.9

    1.8

    1.7

    1.7

    1.7

    1.7

    (contribution to nominal GDP growth, percentage points)

    Consumption

    6.5

    7.0

    3.6

    2.5

    2.5

    2.5

    2.5

    2.4

    2.4

    Private

    6.2

    3.5

    1.7

    1.5

    1.5

    1.5

    1.5

    1.4

    1.4

    Public

    0.3

    3.4

    1.9

    1.0

    1.0

    1.0

    1.0

    1.0

    1.0

    Investment

    6.8

    -2.2

    0.9

    0.5

    0.6

    0.3

    0.3

    0.4

    0.5

    Private 1/

    6.4

    -3.1

    0.2

    0.0

    0.4

    0.1

    0.1

    0.2

    0.3

    Public

    0.4

    0.9

    0.7

    0.5

    0.2

    0.2

    0.2

    0.2

    0.2

    Net exports of goods and services

    0.9

    4.3

    0.7

    0.6

    0.4

    0.4

    0.4

    0.4

    0.4

    Exports

    18.8

    10.4

    4.2

    3.3

    2.8

    2.8

    2.9

    2.9

    2.8

    Imports

    18.0

    6.1

    3.5

    2.7

    2.5

    2.4

    2.5

    2.5

    2.4

    Prices

    Inflation (percent, period average)

    6.2

    5.6

    3.1

    2.2

    1.8

    1.7

    1.7

    1.7

    1.7

    Inflation (percent, end of period)

    7.2

    4.6

    2.6

    2.0

    1.7

    1.7

    1.7

    1.7

    1.7

    Unemployment rate (percent)

    2.1

    1.6

    1.6

    1.6

    1.8

    1.8

    1.9

    2.0

    2.0

    EXTERNAL SECTOR

    (percent of GDP, unless otherwise indicated)

    Current account

    11.6

    14.2

    15.1

    17.0

    17.0

    17.0

    17.0

    17.0

    17.0

    Balance on goods and services

    8.8

    12.0

    12.0

    12.2

    12.1

    12.1

    12.1

    12.1

    12.1

    Exports of goods and services

    80.9

    83.7

    83.7

    83.9

    83.8

    83.9

    84.1

    84.2

    84.3

    Imports of goods and services

    72.2

    71.8

    71.6

    71.7

    71.7

    71.8

    71.9

    72.1

    72.2

    Primary income, net

    4.3

    3.5

    4.3

    6.1

    6.1

    6.1

    6.1

    6.1

    6.1

    Secondary income, net

    -1.4

    -1.3

    -1.3

    -1.3

    -1.3

    -1.3

    -1.3

    -1.3

    -1.3

    Capital account

    0.0

    -0.1

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    Financial account

    12.7

    13.5

    15.1

    17.0

    17.0

    17.0

    17.0

    17.0

    17.0

    Errors and omissions

    1.1

    -0.6

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    Gross international reserves (millions of euros) 2/

    338.4

    338.7

    399.0

    399.0

    399.0

    399.0

    399.0

    399.0

    399.0

    FISCAL SECTOR

    (percent of GDP, unless otherwise indicated)

    General Government 3/

    Revenue

    39.7

    38.0

    37.9

    37.8

    37.7

    37.8

    37.8

    37.7

    37.8

    Expenditure

    34.9

    35.9

    36.5

    36.7

    36.6

    36.9

    36.9

    37.0

    37.0

    Interest

    0.7

    0.6

    0.6

    0.6

    0.6

    0.8

    0.8

    0.8

    0.8

    Primary balance

    5.6

    2.7

    2.0

    1.7

    1.6

    1.6

    1.7

    1.6

    1.6

    Net lending/borrowing (overall balance)

    4.8

    2.1

    1.5

    1.1

    1.1

    0.8

    0.9

    0.8

    0.8

    Public debt

    38.9

    35.5

    33.7

    32.5

    31.5

    30.5

    30.0

    29.5

    29.0

    Central Government 4/

    Revenue

    21.7

    19.8

    21.3

    20.8

    20.8

    20.8

    20.8

    20.8

    20.9

    Expenditure

    18.7

    19.1

    20.4

    20.5

    20.5

    20.6

    20.7

    20.6

    20.7

    Interest

    0.7

    0.5

    0.5

    0.5

    0.5

    0.7

    0.7

    0.7

    0.7

    Primary balance

    3.6

    1.2

    1.4

    0.8

    0.8

    0.9

    0.8

    0.9

    0.9

    Net lending/borrowing (overall balance)

    2.9

    0.7

    0.9

    0.3

    0.3

    0.2

    0.1

    0.2

    0.2

    Public debt

    37.1

    34.0

    32.3

    31.2

    30.1

    29.2

    28.7

    28.3

    27.9

    BANKING SECTOR5 /

    (percent, unless otherwise indicated)

    Regulatory capital to risk-weighted assets

    20.3

    21.7

    21.2

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Nonperforming loans to total gross loans

    3.3

    2.2

    2.1

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Credit to nonfinancial private sector

    Level (percent of GDP)

    116.4

    101.3

    94.5

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Corporates

    61.8

    55.1

    51.1

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Households

    54.6

    46.2

    43.4

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Growth (nominal)

    -1.7

    -5.2

    -2.0

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Corporates

    2.6

    -2.8

    -2.5

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Households

    -6.1

    -7.8

    -1.3

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Credit to public sector

    Level (percent of GDP)

    2.2

    1.8

    1.5

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Growth (nominal)

    -8.4

    -10.0

    -13.0

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Memorandum items

    Exchange rate (€/USD, period average) 6/

    0.95

    0.92

    0.92

    0.97

    0.97

    0.97

    0.97

    0.97

    0.97

    Nominal GDP (millions of euros)

    3,210

    3,501

    3,676

    3,811

    3,942

    4,070

    4,202

    4,338

    4,478

    Sources: Andorran authorities, Eurostat, and IMF staff calculations.

    1/ The contribution of private investment is derived as a residual and includes investments of state-owned enterprises.

    2/ The increase of gross international reserves in 2022 is due to €100 million deposited at the Bank of Spain, €40 million at the Banque de France, and €60 million at the Nederlandsche Bank as gross international reserves. In 2024, additional €60 million reserves were accounted, mainly deposited at the Bank of Spain.

    3/ The general government comprises the central government, local governments, and the social security fund.

    4/ The central government comprises Govern d’Andorra, as well as nonmarket, nonprofit institutional units.

    5/ 2024 data corresponds to 2024Q3.

    6/ The table reports the exchange rate €/USD because Andorra is a euroized economy.
    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Camila Perez

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Video: State of the Nation Address Debate: Day 1 | 11 February

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements)

    State of the Nation Address Debate: Day 1 | 11 February
    #SONA2025 #GovZAupdates

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uy8sWg4yy9w

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: National Assembly holds debate on SANDF deaths in DRC

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements-2)

    Parliament debate on a matter of national importance on the fallen heroes of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) who died in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JGJm8W_JoUc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Construction begins on £1million new fish pass at chalk stream

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    The Environment Agency has started construction of a £1million new fish pass at Turf Lock on the River Lark at Mildenhall in Suffolk.

    The River Lark is a chalk stream and one of just over 200 in the world.

    The aim of the work is to enable the free flow of native wild brown trout, eels and coarse fish. This will allow them to access habitat in the River Lark upstream of Mildenhall for spawning and foraging.

    The project is part of the Brecks Fen Edge & Rivers Landscape Partnership Scheme,  supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

    The partnership is hosted by Suffolk County Council and includes local councils, the Environment Agency, Anglian Water, Natural England, and many more.

    Work will be carried out to remove two weirs that are currently impeding the fish and eels’ progress at Turf Lock. Once this work is done a new fish passage known as a rip rap rock ramp will be created using natural limestone boulders. A rip rap rock ramp provides shelter to the fish as they go between them. This work will take around three months to complete.

    Chalk streams are a ‘valuable natural resource’

    Lou Mayer, Environment Programme Manager for the Environment Agency said:

    It’s fantastic to see work beginning on this important nature recovery project, as part of the catchment-based approach.

    Chalk streams are an incredibly valuable natural resource which the Environment Agency are working hard to restore and protect through working in partnership.

    Turf Lock is one of three structures in Mildenhall that will need modification for fish passage. Through consultation with Mildenhall Town Council, West Suffolk Council, landowners and local residents we are hopeful that we can continue to work in partnership to improve the biodiversity of the land around the river as well.

    Councillor Philip Faircloth-Mutton, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Communities and Equality said:

    Suffolk County Council is proud to support excellent partnership projects such as this, that deliver meaningful, and lasting outcomes to protect and enhance Suffolk’s biodiversity through the restoration of our valuable chalk steam habitats.

    Ian Shipp, West Suffolk’s Cabinet Member for Leisure and Culture said:

    We welcome this work which will benefit the river and support biodiversity in line with our own strategic priority for environmental resilience and thank all of those involved for their hard work in delivering such a complex scheme.

    Whilst this work is carried out the footpath from the path adjacent to the works will be closed, on the North side of the River Lark, from the bridge at Mill Street, to the access track adjacent to the cricket field. An alternative route will be signposted.

    Background

    • The Environment Agency is funding this project from the Water Environment Improvement Fund, which has been used to unlock £3million of Lottery Heritage Fund for the Brecks Fen Edge and Rivers Landscape Partnership scheme, delivering heritage conservation projects on the Breck’s fenland fringe, key freshwater habitats and primary river corridors.  
    • The Catchment based approach is about working together, through engaging people, groups and organisations from across society to help improve our precious water environments. The Environment Agency is a partner organisation of the River Lark Catchment Partnership.
    • The River Lark’s Catchment Partnership objective is to make improvements to habitat and ecological status of the river. The River Lark Catchment Partnership
    • The River Lark has been identified as a flagship river for The Chalk Stream Restoration Project nominated as a Flagship catchment by Anglian Water and supported by the River Lark Catchment Partnership. 
    • One of the ways to do that is by removing restrictions to migratory fish species and unlocking river habitat improvements further upstream as part of a holistic approach to nature recovery.  

    About The Brecks Fen Edge & Rivers Landscape Partnership Scheme

    • The Brecks Fen Edge & Rivers Landscape Partnership Scheme is a National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) funded Landscape Partnership Scheme for the Brecks.
    • BFER is hosted by Suffolk County Council and has delivered a series of new and exciting community-based landscape and heritage conservation projects, focused on the Brecks’ fen edge and river corridors over a 5 year period (2020-2024). The partnership is made up of regional, national and local organisations with an interest in the area, community groups and members of the community.
    • The Scheme outputs have concentrated on the key Fen Edge and Freshwater habitat areas within the Brecks, with the aim of delivering real understanding of water-based heritage and conservation issues, and positive conservation changes on the ground. This area encompasses a unique landscape in Britain with an incredible and much overlooked heritage and biodiversity.

    About The National Lottery Heritage Fund

    • Brecks Fen Edge and Rivers (BFER) Landscape Partnership scheme has been awarded £1.97 million by The National Lottery Heritage Fund
    • Using money raised by the National Lottery players, the NHLF inspires, leads and resources the UK’s heritage to create positive and lasting change for people and communities, now and in the future. National Lottery Heritage Fund.

    Updates to this page

    Published 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: CapitalRock spreads its wings in the realm of cryptocurrency with the latest solutions and investment plans

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Feb. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — World-recognized Crypto Asset Management Leader now introduces CapitalRock coin and is ready to start its trading app.

    CapitalRock is one of the leading crypto asset management companies that has come up with a huge plan to redefine the digital finance system through its advanced investment plans, strategic analysis approach, and attractive offers.

    Composed of a competent team of more than 200 experts, CapitalRock is all set to take over the crypto world.

    The prime focus of CapitalRock is to cater to the digital world with its unique crypto investment plans with keen market analysis. The efficient team is dedicated to working most professionally by keeping an eye on the latest trends and risk factors, thus making smart decisions for its Investors. The CapitalRock team involves seasoned analysts, traders, and Blockchain experts from the industry who bring their hands-on experience to make every effort to elevate the graph of CapitalRock coin.

    CapitalRock coin aka CR is the nucleus of CapitalRock’s unique work plan in the world of cryptocurrency. CR has taken the top position in the contemporary exchange market. Its top ranking has increased the company’s reputation in the market in turn, providing the investors a trustworthy platform for carrying out trade activities. Thus, both CR and the company find its way to ace the digital market.

    CapitalRock Coin (CR): A Game-Changer in Crypto

    CapitalRock coin (CR) has been launched to set a foundation for the company’s beneficial monetary plans, to take it high in the brand ranking. After wise investment planning, along with smart strategic management, CR bears the potential to bring innovation to the digital market. CR paves a lucrative path for its users from trade aspects, thus providing them a strong and durable crypto ecosystem.

    The launch of CR is completely aligned with the vision of CapitalRock which claims to provide its users not just with a financially supportive trade coin but also makes them a valuable part of the company’s mission.

    CR, being labelled as the top-ranked coin in the exchange market, has caught the attention of investors worldwide for availing a better trading experience.

    CapitalRock’s Trading Application: A Step Forward in User Experience

    In the coming future, CapitalRock is also ready to launch its highly effective trading application. This up-to-date trading app will allow both retailers and investors to make use of advanced features to increase the functionality of the coin. With the use of this app, the users through their crypto profile, will enjoy a smooth trade experience with CR.

    The application will be designed with an attractive yet easy-to-use interface, precise analysis, and authentic market data. The easy-to-use interface will allow both new traders and old crypto users to enjoy the service in its full bloom. It will enable the users to reach out to important market updates, trading trends, and analytics and will also allow them to maintain their trade portfolio and view the performance graph. These facilities will surely allow them to make wise decisions in terms of trading and investment in the digitally competitive finance market.

    Technology is a reality and it stands at the heart of the crypto asset management and our trading app is the representative of this reality. Our motto is to take crypto investments through a more user-friendly approach and this will be possible via our trading application. The CEO of CapitalRock claimed to be eagerly in the queue to embrace its beneficial impact in the digital world.

    CapitalRock’s Dedicated Team: The Driving Force Behind Success

    The CapitalRock team of over 200 potential minds is one of the leading reasons behind its successful journey. The expert data analysts, competent risk managers, and Blockchain masters put their entire efforts to keep it high in the exchange ranking by continuously devising mindful strategies and keeping a track of the associated risks. Thus CapitalRock has met all the risks and stands high in ua performance.

    The head of CapitalRock’s investment strategy department stated that the CapitalRock team is its backbone. He further mentioned that they take pride in their capabilities to cope with the trends, pinpoint risks timely, and avail the opportunities rightly by being flexible by market fluctuations. He also paid tribute to the team members’ full-time commitment and dedication to their duties and the company’s vision.

    A Vision for the Future

    With the continuous growth of the crypto market, CapitalRock stands firm with its motto to add value to the advanced digital world. The strategic plans of CapitalRock including continuous investment analysis, the launch of CR, and the most useful trading application are all its support systems that speak of its vision. The passionate team of CapitalRock is also striving to extend its global face, making new partnerships and fostering ties with organizational investors. It also has smart plans to work on Blockchain projects and make trading collaborations. The leadership of CapitalRock is giving it’s best in availing more growth opportunities to amplify its digital profile along with bringing more services and facilities for the investors.

    In the coming future, CapitalRock is also quite eager to take part in educational programs, innovative projects, and decentralized finance (DeFi) applications in order to pay back to the Blockchain community in the best way.

    Commitment to Transparency and Security

    Transparency is practiced at its best at CapitalRock. As with the increasing number of users and an upsurge in digital assets, the company is subjected to more seamlessness in providing the data to its partners. Therefore, it ensures that the company’s investors feel rather more trusted while making decisions and being a part of this community.

    CapitalRock makes use of top-notch security tools i-e multi-signature wallets, two-factor authentication, and peer-to-peer encryption to keep all the investments as well as users’ personal data fully safe and secure. With frequently mushrooming crypto assets, CapitalRock has felt the need to maintain its security protocols rather than more.

    Conclusion

    With all its uniqueness, CapitalRock is determined to maintain its pre-eminent position in the crypto world. With it’s crypto coin (CR) and the trendy trading application launched, the company is doing its best to come up to the mark with all competitors and contribute in revamping the digital finance market.

    CapitalRock, with its seasoned team, smart leadership, and dedicated mindset, is laying the foundation to better standards for crypto investments, trade and exchanges. Investors can see a bright future ahead of their way in the contemporary crypto ecosystem where CapitalRock is leading their way.

    For further information regarding CapitalRock coin (CR) and trading app, keep visiting the official website.

    https://www.capitalrock.ch/
    https://t.me/capitalrock1
    https://twitter.com/CapitalRock_AG
    Contact person: Jawwad Ahmed
    Company name: CapitalRock
    Website: capitalrock.ch
    Email: admin@capitalrock.ch

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by CapitalRock. 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.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4c8175b0-1282-4ae3-8036-d6168fb13fbe

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN receives farewell call by Ambassador of Ukraine to ASEAN

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today received a farewell call by Ambassador of Ukraine to ASEAN, Dr. Vasyl Hamianin, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. They exchanged views on ASEAN-Ukraine relations, where Dr. Kao expressed his appreciation to Ambassador Hamianin for his dedications and efforts in promoting closer relations between ASEAN and Ukraine during his tenure as the Ambassador to ASEAN.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN receives farewell call by Ambassador of Ukraine to ASEAN appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI China: Foreign Minister Lin hosts welcome luncheon for Estonian defense industry delegation

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    Foreign Minister Lin hosts welcome luncheon for Estonian defense industry delegation

    • Date：2025-02-05
    • Data Source：Department of European Affairs

    No. 032 

    February 5, 2025 

    Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung hosted a welcome luncheon on February 4 for an Estonian defense industry delegation led by Chair of the Estonia-Taiwan Support Group of the Parliament of Estonia Kristo Enn Vaga. The delegation included senior parliamentarian Kalle Laanet—who previously served as minister of defense, minister of the interior, and minister of justice—as well as representatives of the defense industry. During the event, the two sides exchanged views on cooperation in defense industry innovation, whole-of-society resilience, the Russia-Ukraine war, and other issues. 

     

    Minister Lin noted that Taiwan and Estonia had both experienced authoritarian rule and therefore greatly cherished their hard-won freedoms and democracy. Commenting on authoritarian expansionism in recent years, he pointed out that the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, China’s recurrent military exercises in the waters around Taiwan, and frequent incidents of sabotage of underwater cables in the Baltic Sea and the waters off Taiwan underscored the importance of enhancing collaboration among democratic nations. Minister Lin also spoke about having led a delegation of the Taiwanese drone industry to Lithuania last November to demonstrate Taiwan’s determination to build democratic supply chains together with like-minded nations. He welcomed this visit by the Estonian defense industry delegation, which, he said, would open up additional areas for cooperation. 

     

    Chair Vaga stated that the democratic community had realized that if like-minded partners did not work together to establish supply chains, national security could become susceptible to potential threats. Observing that Taiwan and Estonia were both the targets of massive daily disinformation attacks and that underwater cables serving each had recently been damaged, Chair Vaga urged the democratic community to become more united against all manner of threats and challenges. He also pledged to steadily promote relations between Taiwan and Estonia.

     

    At the luncheon, Minister Lin thanked the representatives of Motex Healthcare and Taiwan Comfort Champ Manufacturing for their joint donation of 1.11 million masks to Ukraine and Estonia during the Estonian delegation’s visit to Taiwan, adding that it highlighted the Taiwanese spirit of humanitarian assistance. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs François Chihchung Wu witnessed the donation ceremony on behalf of Minister Lin. 

     

    Deputy Minister Wu said that, since the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war, Taiwan had worked proactively with like-minded countries to support Ukraine. He stated that the Taipei Mission in the Republic of Latvia and the Estonian Centre for International Development had signed a partnership agreement last June, under which Taiwan would donate €1.1 million to support the construction of homes for orphans in Ukraine. Deputy Minister Wu expressed pleasure that Taiwanese companies had shown a commitment to corporate social responsibility and demonstrated that Taiwan could help and that Taiwan was helping. His views were echoed by Chairman of Motex Healthcare Y. C. Cheng and Chairman of Taiwan Comfort Champ Manufacturing Andy Chen, both of whom expressed a willingness to work with the government to assist Ukraine. (E)

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: MOFA response to false claims regarding Taiwan in joint statement between PRC and Kyrgyzstan

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    MOFA response to false claims regarding Taiwan in joint statement between PRC and Kyrgyzstan

    • Date：2025-02-06
    • Data Source：Department of West Asian and African Affairs

    February 6, 2025  

    Chinese leader Xi Jinping met with President Sadyr Japarov of the Kyrgyz Republic on February 5. The two sides issued a joint statement on deepening their comprehensive strategic partnership in the new era, which erroneously claimed that Taiwan was an inalienable part of China. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) solemnly refutes this false narrative.

     

    MOFA reiterates that the Republic of China (Taiwan) is a sovereign and independent nation; that neither the ROC (Taiwan) nor the People’s Republic of China is subordinate to the other; and that the Chinese Communist Party regime has never governed Taiwan. The ROC (Taiwan) is a modern democratic country that actively defends its democratic system and respects human rights and the rule of law. No statement seeking to distort the sovereign status of the ROC (Taiwan) can change the internationally recognized cross-strait status quo.

     

    Taiwan is located on a strategic front line in the Indo-Pacific, safeguarding the values of democracy and freedom. Taiwan remains staunchly committed to defending its national sovereignty. Moving forward, Taiwan will continue to strengthen cooperation with like-minded partners to jointly counter China’s attempts at rhetorical and military intimidation, curb authoritarian expansionism, ensure peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, and promote global economic security and prosperity.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: MOFA response to false claims regarding Taiwan in joint statement between PRC and Brunei

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    MOFA response to false claims regarding Taiwan in joint statement between PRC and Brunei

    • Date：2025-02-08
    • Data Source：Department of East Asian and Pacific Affairs

    February 8, 2025

    Chinese leader Xi Jinping met with Sultan of Brunei Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaaddin Waddaulah on February 6. The two sides issued a joint statement on advancing the strategic cooperative partnership towards a China-Brunei community with a shared future, which erroneously claimed that Taiwan was an inalienable part of China. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) strongly condemns this claim.

    MOFA reiterates that the Republic of China (Taiwan) is a sovereign and independent nation; that neither the ROC (Taiwan) nor the People’s Republic of China is subordinate to the other; and that the Chinese Communist Party regime has never governed Taiwan. No statement seeking to distort the sovereign status of the ROC (Taiwan) can change the internationally recognized cross-strait status quo.

    MOFA emphasizes that Taiwan will not succumb to pressure or diplomatic suppression by China’s authoritarian government. Through its practice of integrated diplomacy, Taiwan will continue to deepen economic and trade cooperation and bilateral relations with Brunei and other nations so as to jointly facilitate regional prosperity.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: MOFA response to joint statement from US-Japan summit reaffirming importance of cross-strait peace and stability

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    MOFA response to joint statement from US-Japan summit reaffirming importance of cross-strait peace and stability

    • Date：2025-02-08
    • Data Source：Department of North American Affairs

    February 8, 2025 

    US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba held a summit in Washington, DC, on February 7. In the joint statement released after the meeting, the two leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait as an indispensable element of security and prosperity for the international community. 

     

    Furthermore, President Trump and Prime Minister Ishiba encouraged the peaceful resolution of cross-strait issues, opposed any attempts to unilaterally change the status quo by force or coercion, and expressed support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations. The leaders also underlined their strong opposition to China’s attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion in the East China Sea as well as its unlawful claims, militarization, and provocative activities in the South China Sea. 

     

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs sincerely appreciates and affirms the fact that the leaders of the United States and Japan, meeting for the first time since they assumed their respective positions, used this historic occasion to jointly reiterate their staunch position on maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and strongly oppose any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion.

     

    MOFA welcomes the continued attention of the international community on cross-strait peace and stability, as well as its concern over China’s threats to the peaceful status quo. As a responsible member of the international community, Taiwan will actively implement its Four Pillars of Peace action plan, which includes further strengthening its national defense capabilities. Taiwan will work together with the United States, Japan, and other like-minded countries to ensure peace, stability, and prosperity across the Taiwan Strait and throughout the Indo-Pacific region.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: MOFA response to false claims regarding Taiwan in joint statement between PRC and Thailand

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    MOFA response to false claims regarding Taiwan in joint statement between PRC and Thailand

    • Date：2025-02-08
    • Data Source：Department of East Asian and Pacific Affairs

    February 8, 2025

    Chinese leader Xi Jinping met with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on February 6. Two days after the meeting, the two sides issued a joint statement on advancing the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership and building a China-Thailand community with a shared future for enhanced stability, prosperity, and sustainability through a forward-looking and people-centered vision. The text includes the erroneous claim that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China, as well as an expression of support by Thailand for China’s “one country, two systems” policy. 

    Given that the statement radically deviates from the facts, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly protests and solemnly condemns the Chinese government for once again disseminating narratives aimed at downgrading the sovereignty of the Republic of China (Taiwan). In addition, MOFA deeply regrets the Thai government’s subservience to China’s suppression of Taiwan’s sovereign status.

    MOFA reiterates that the ROC (Taiwan) is a sovereign and independent nation; that neither Taiwan nor the People’s Republic of China is subordinate to the other; and that the Chinese Communist Party regime has never governed Taiwan. No fraudulent claim seeking to distort the sovereign status of the ROC (Taiwan) can change the internationally recognized cross-strait status quo.

    MOFA emphasizes that Taiwan and Thailand share a long-standing friendship and urges the government of Thailand to adopt an open and pragmatic approach toward building on the existing foundation of robust cooperation so that both sides can expand mutually beneficial economic, trade, and other exchanges and properly contribute to regional peace and stability.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: The EBA amends its Guidelines on ICT and security risk management measures in the context of DORA application

    Source: European Banking Authority

    The European Banking Authority (EBA) narrowed down the scope of its existing Guidelines on ICT and security risk management measures, due to the application of harmonised ICT risk management requirements under the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) from 17 January 2025.  These amendments aim at simplifying the ICT risk management framework and providing legal clarity to the market.

    DORA has introduced harmonised requirements on ICT risk management that apply to financial entities across the banking, securities/markets, insurance and pensions sectors.

    To avoid duplication of requirements and to provide legal clarity to the market, the EBA has amended its Guidelines on ICT and security risk management. In particular, the EBA has narrowed down:

    • the entity scope of the Guidelines to only those that are covered by DORA, namely credit institutions, payment institutions, account information service providers, exempted payment institutions and exempted e-money institutions; and
    • the scope of the Guidelines to the requirements on relationship management of the payment service users in relation to the provision of payment services.

    It is important to note that security and operational risk management requirements under the Payment Services Directive (PSD2), which are applicable since March 2018, continue to apply to other types of payment service providers (PSPs), such as post-office giro institutions and credit unions, that are not covered by DORA. PSPs that are still subject to security and operational risk management under the PSD2 can potentially be subject to additional national requirements, regardless of the existence of the EBA Guidelines that would apply to them. Competent authorities or Member States’ governments wishing to retain the approach set out in the EBA Guidelines for those PSPs can continue to do so under their national legal framework or supervisory measures.

    Background, legal basis and next steps

    On 27 November 2019, the EBA published the Guidelines on ICT and security risk management (EBA/GL/2019/04) (“Guidelines”) which were built on the provisions of Article 74 of Directive 2013/36/EU (CRD)[1] and Article 95(3) of Directive (EU) 2015/2366 (PSD2)[2] . These Guidelines established requirements for credit institutions, investment firms and PSPs on the mitigation and management of their ICT and security risks and aim to ensure a consistent and robust approach across the Single market. The Guidelines entered into force in 2020 and replaced and repealed the preceding Guidelines on security measures for operational and security risks that the EBA had issued three years earlier in fulfilment of a mandate under PSD2 (EBA GL/2017/17).

    From 17 January 2025, DORA applies and introduces, inter alia, harmonised requirements for ICT risk management framework (RMF), incident reporting, and third-party risk management and testing.

    The amended Guidelines will apply within two months of the publication of the translated versions.

     

    [1] EBA mandate to further harmonise financial institutions’ governance arrangements, processes and mechanisms across the EU regarding internal governance

    [2]EBA mandate to issue guidelines with regard to the establishment, implementation and monitoring of security measures for operational and security risks.

    The Guidelines replaced those on security measures for operational and security risks (EBA GL/2017/17), which were repealed

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK response to national security emergency tested through nationwide exercise

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    More than 120 members of the armed forces, policing and government have taken part in an exercise to practise responding to a national security emergency.

    The nation’s preparations for a large-scale security incident were put to the test last week as the Home Office, Ministry of Defence and Counter Terrorism Policing planned and conducted a national exercise to simulate their response to an extreme national security emergency.

    Taking place between 5 and 7 February, more than 120 members of the armed forces, policing and government simulated their joint response to a national emergency, such as a major terrorist incident.

    The exercise – known as Octacine 2 – was part of the government’s regular counter-terrorism efforts. The focus was to test the ability of police and military to work together in extreme circumstances, as well as familiarising personnel with different sites and participating in joint briefings.

    Octacine 2 built on a previous, similar exercise and was designed to simulate the deployment of military personnel to support the Strategic Armed Policing Reserve.

    Armed police officers were temporarily redeployed from their routine roles in order to respond to a major national security incident, protecting and reassuring the public in a time of heightened tension.

    It simulated the response that would be deployed under Operation Temperer, a contingency plan drawn up in 2015 to provide military support to the police in extreme national emergency circumstances, such as surge support in response to a major domestic terrorist attack or threat. It covers all of Great Britain, and is directed by the National Police Chiefs’ Council Counter Terrorism Coordination Committee.

    The exercise included a live-play exercise, when the Operation Temperer national mobilisation coordination centre was stood up and military and police personnel were deployed to 11 sites across Great Britain.

    Security Minister, Dan Jarvis, said:

    Exercises like Octacine 2 are vital to ensure that our armed forces and policing partners are able to work well together to protect the British public from ever present threats.

    I am grateful for their tireless and dedicated work in serving our country, and their ongoing preparation to perform those critical roles that keep us safe.

    Minister for Armed Forces, Luke Pollard, said:

    Our national security is the foundation for this government’s Plan for Change and exercises like this are critically important to ensure we can respond to threats quickly and effectively.

    I’d like to thank all members of our armed forces who are held at readiness throughout the year, ready to keep the public and country safe at a moment’s notice.

    The training, while routine, is crucial for the armed forces to support policing partners and respond effectively in case of a major incident. This routine exercise allows us to test coordination and teamwork with various partners while also providing a visible presence to reassure and protect the public in instances of high-risk and national security incidents.

    Updates to this page

    Published 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Building consensus on Council Tax reform

    Source: Scottish Government

    Future of local taxation to be considered.

    The public will be invited to submit their views on how to make the Council Tax system fairer, as part of wider efforts to explore options and build a consensus for potential reform.

    As part of a joint programme of engagement by the Scottish Government and COSLA, independent analysis will also be commissioned to examine the Council Tax system accounting for market changes, reforms, and improvements.

    This will inform public engagement later this year, followed by a Scottish Parliament debate on the findings and proposed policy reforms.

    Finance Secretary Shona Robison said:

    “Partnering with COSLA, we want to examine ways to make Council Tax fairer, which will help to continue to deliver better public services across Scotland.

    “By working closely with local authorities and listening to the public, we will be seeking a consensus on a local taxation system that is fairer, financially sustainable and fits a modern Scotland.”

    COSLA Resources Spokesperson Cllr Katie Hagmann said:

    “Local Authorities wish to see a fair and proportionate Council Tax, which benefits people and communities. 

    “COSLA is looking forward to working with the Scottish Government on a programme of engagement with the public, with the shared goal of achieving a better, fairer system of local taxation.”

    Background

    Programme of engagement:

    Expert and independent analysis will be commissioned, including to provide high level analysis and modelling on alternative scenarios and reforms of the system.

    Following that, a range of activities to seek the views from a wide range of people from across Scotland will be undertaken, consisting of three key elements:

    • A formal public consultation process.
    • A number of public events or ‘town hall’ meetings held over the autumn months, ensuring a reasonable geographical spread and diversity.
    • A set of focused discussions with key stakeholders and experts.  

    The public engagement will aim to capture a wide spectrum of opinions and considered responses, ensuring a diverse range of perspectives, including representation from those paying Council Tax across different bands.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Funding boost to tackle gender-based violence

    Source: Scottish Government

    Delivering Equally Safe Fund increased.

    More than 100 organisations across Scotland working to tackle violence against women and girls will share in a funding uplift of £2.4 million.

    The funding boost will bring the total Scottish Government investment in Delivering Equally Safe, which funds projects to prevent violence and support survivors, up to £21.6 million for the year ahead subject to the 2025-26 Budget being approved.

    Equalities Minister Kaukab Stewart announced the funding increase on a visit to SAY Women – a Glasgow charity offering safe accommodation and emotional support for young survivors of sexual abuse who are facing homelessness.

    Ms Stewart said:

    “Grassroots organisations across Scotland are at the heart of tackling violence against women and girls. Their work is fundamental to creating a country free from gender-based abuse.

    “This funding boost will support these organisations, will help prevent abuse occurring and ensure that women and girls who have experienced violence can continue to access the support they deserve.”

    SAY Women CEO Pam Hunter said:

    “SAY Women is delighted to receive the additional funds. This will go towards increasing our investment into projects for the young women within our services.

    “In the face of the rising cost of living, increase in N.I contributions and inflation, the organisation made the challenging executive decision to limit the variety of activities on offer to those in our care so that we may allow the staff to have a fair living wage. This additional funding will reinstate many of the services that were temporarily paused so that SAY Women may continue to do the good work supporting young women affected by sexual violence and homelessness.”

    Background

    The Delivering Equally Safe Fund supports organisations across Scotland in their work to tackle violence against women and girls, and has done since 2021.

    The Delivering Equally Safe fund is the Scottish Government’s funding programme to support third sector organisations and public bodies to contribute to the objectives, priorities and outcomes of the Equally Safe strategy – Scotland’s strategy to prevent and eradicate violence against women and girls.

    A £19.2 million funding extension to allow these organisations to continue their work until March 2026 was announced in December 2024, provided the Scottish Budget 2025-26 is approved by parliament: Preventing violence against women and girls – gov.scot

    This funding uplift of £2.4 million brings the fund total for 2025-26 to £21.6 million.

    The organisations funded through Delivering Equally Safe are as follows:

    Organisation

    Aberdeen City Council

    Aberdeen Cyrenians Ltd

    Aberlour Child Care Trust

    Action for Children

    Amina – the Muslim Women’s Resource Centre

    Angus Women’s Aid

    Argyll & Bute Rape Crisis

    Argyll & Bute Violence against Women and Girls Partnership

    Argyll & Bute Women’s Aid SCIO

    ASSIST, Glasgow City Council

    Barnardo’s Tayside

    Barnardo’s Falkirk

    Border Women’s Aid Ltd

    British Red Cross Society

    Caithness & Sutherland Women’s Aid

    CEA Committed To Ending Abuse

    Central Advocacy Partners

    Children 1st

    Clackmannanshire Women’s Aid

    Close the Gap (SCIO)

    Deaf Links

    Dumbarton District Women’s Aid

    Dumfries & Galloway Council

    Dumfries & Galloway Rape Crisis and Sexual Abuse Support Centre

    Dumfriesshire & Stewartry Women’s Aid

    Dundee City Council

    Dundee International Women’s Centre

    Dundee Women’s Aid

    East Ayrshire Health & Social Care Partnership

    East Ayrshire Women’s Aid

    East Dunbartonshire Association For Mental Health

    East Dunbartonshire Women’s Aid SCIO

    East Lothian and Midlothian Public Protection Committee

    Edinburgh Rape Crisis Centre

    Edinburgh Women’s Aid Ltd

    Edinburgh Women’s Aid Ltd

    EmilyTest

    Engender

    FENIKS Counselling, Personal Development & Support Service Ltd

    Fife Council

    Fife Rape and Sexual Assault Centre

    Fife Women’s Aid

    Forth Valley Rape Crisis Centre

    GEMAP Scotland Ltd

    Glasgow and Clyde Rape Crisis

    Glasgow Women’s Aid

    Grampian Women’s Aid

    Hemat Gryffe Women’s Aid Limited

    INVERCLYDE WOMEN’S AID SCIO

    Inverness Women’s Aid

    JustRight Scotland SCIO

    Kenyan Women in Scotland Association (CIC)

    Kibble Education and Care Centre

    Kingdom Abuse Survivors Project

    Lanarkshire Rape Crisis Centre

    LGBT Youth Scotland

    Liber8 (Lanarkshire) Ltd

    Lochaber Women’s Aid

    Monklands Women’s Aid

    Moray Rape Crisis

    Moray Women’s Aid

    Motherwell & District Women’s Aid

    Multi-Cultural Family Base

    North Ayrshire Women’s Aid

    North Lanarkshire Council

    Cumbernauld & District Women’s Aid SCIO

    Orkney Rape & Sexual Assault Service (ORSAS) SCIO

    Perth & Kinross Council

    Perthshire Women’s Aid

    Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre, Perth & Kinross

    Rape and Sexual Abuse Service Highland

    Rape Crisis Grampian

    Rape Crisis Scotland

    Renfrewshire Council

    Renfrewshire Council, Children’s Services, Women and Children First

    Renfrewshire Women’s Aid SCIO

    Respect

    Ross-Shire Women’s Aid

    Rowan Alba Ltd

    Sacro

    SafeLives

    Saheliya

    Sandyford – NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde

    SAY Women

    Scottish Borders Council

    Scottish Borders Rape Crisis Centre (SBRCC)

    Scottish Commission for Learning Disability

    Scottish Women’s Aid

    Shakti Women’s Aid

    Shetland Rape Crisis

    Shetland Women’s Aid (SCIO)

    South Ayrshire Women’s Aid

    South Lanarkshire Council

    South West Grid for Learning Trust Ltd

    Stirling & District Women’s Aid

    The Highland Council

    The Improvement Service

    The Star Centre

    The Venture Trust

    West Dunbartonshire Council

    Western Isles Rape Crises Centre

    Western Isles Women’s Aid SCIO

    West Lothian Council

    West Lothian Women’s Aid (WLWA)

    White Ribbon Scotland

    Wigtownshire Women’s Aid

    Women’s Aid East and Midlothian Ltd

    Women’s Aid Orkney

    Women’s Aid South Lanarkshire and East Renfrewshire

    Women’s Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre Dundee and Angus

    Women’s Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre Dundee and Angus

    Women’s Support Project

    YWCA Scotland

    Zero Tolerance

    The latest Equally Safe Delivery Plan, published in August 2024, sets out next steps to address violence against women and girls.

    Frontline projects funded through the Delivering Equally Safe Fund have supported 67,004 adults, children and young people since 2021.

    SAY Women is a charity that offers safe semi-supported accommodation and emotional support for young women aged 16 to 25 who are survivors of sexual abuse, rape or sexual assault and who are homeless, or threatened with homelessness.

    SAY Women receive funding through the Delivering Equally Safe Fund, and with this uplift this will increase from £52,009 to £58,770 in 2025/26. Funding is in place to support a full Sessional Team to support young women to participate in additional mental health/wellbeing activities contributing to wellbeing improvements aiding in preventing homelessness.

    SAY Women are also supported by the Scottish Government’s Survivors of Childhood Abuse Support (SOCAS) Fund. The fund supports 22 organisations across Scotland who work with adult survivors of childhood abuse. SAY Women have been allocated £190,000 for the period of the Fund (1 October 2024 – 31 March 2026) to provide specialised support to young women survivors of childhood sexual abuse who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Big Brush Club expands to all primary schools in Devon

    Source: City of Plymouth

    A supervised toothbrushing scheme, known as the Big Brush Club, has been running in some areas of Devon, Plymouth and Torbay since 2023. However, the scheme, which is provided for children aged 3 to 5-years old, is now being rolled out to all primary schools in Devon who have an early years nursery, pre-school or reception class provision.

    Children at Ernesettle School with Bob the Badger, mascot of the Big Brush Club

    It is funded by NHS Devon, in partnership with Devon County Council, Plymouth City Council and Torbay Council, and delivered by dentist provider At Home Dental.

    Jonathan Bouwer-Davies, Clinical Dental Adviser for NHS Devon said: “We know a quarter of five-year-olds have tooth decay which can, in severe cases, lead to children needing hospital treatment.

    “Understanding how to brush your teeth properly is an important life skill for children. It takes schools five minutes a day and the benefits can be life-long.

    “I am proud that Devon is the first area in the south west to extend the scheme to all primary schools thanks to the collaboration between NHS Devon, Devon County Council, Plymouth City Council and Torbay Council.”

    Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care at Plymouth City Council, said: “We’re absolutely delighted that the supervised toothbrushing scheme will now be available to all schools across Plymouth.

    “When it comes to dental health, we know that prevention is better than cure and this is exacerbated by the difficulties our residents are experiencing when they try to access NHS dental care, so it’s absolutely vital that children create healthy habits at a young age.

    “We really hope that all schools across the city take up this offer, as it has such a huge benefit for children.”

    L-R: Clare Foster, Project Manager at At Home Dental, Bob the Badger mascot, Councillor Mary Aspinall, Reena Patel, South West Consultant in Dental Public Health at NHS England and Anna Mansfield, Project Facilitator at At Home Dental.

    Under the scheme, teachers hold short, daily toothbrushing sessions for three- to-five-year-olds alongside lessons about self-care, healthy eating and reducing sugar.

    Chief Operations Officer from At Home Dental, Hayley Beaumont, said: “Our team of dental nurses work closely with teachers, pupils and parents to provide advice, support and training on promoting oral health.

    “Each child is provided with a toothbrush and toothpaste pack to take home, encouraging toothbrushing to be a part of their normal daily routine.

    “The children love doing it with their friends and the teachers report that it not only reduces problems with teeth but also school absence.”

    Rapper and health activist Professor Green is helping the NHS raise awareness among families about the importance of children looking after their teeth, by launching an exciting competition to all primary schools across the south west.

    Every child aged between three – five years old has been invited to take part in a competition with a music category and a colouring category. The competition, which will run until the end of May, will give children the chance to win some fantastic prizes for both themselves and their school. Professor Green will join a judging panel for the competition.

    Professor Green said: “I am chuffed to be able to support the NHS supervised toothbrushing in schools scheme, and to be judging a competition which gives young children a creative outlet, while also teaching them the importance of brushing their teeth at least twice a day.”

    He says he only realised later in life how not brushing properly twice a day affected his own physical and mental health – so now takes this seriously with his own son alongside a healthy diet.

    Oral health is seen as a marker of wider health and social care inequalities including poor nutrition and obesity. 

    Prof. Maggie Rae, South West Deputy Public Health Director at the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, concludes: “The Big Brush Club is a fantastic example of forward-thinking, early intervention work that supports the government’s mission to improve the health of the nation.

    “The NHS in the south west is absolutely committed to tackling the many unfair disparities of health outcomes across our society.”

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Aberdeen awarded major award from Arts and Humanities Research Council The University of Aberdeen has secured a major award from the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) to support PhD research across the arts and humanities disciplines.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    The University of Aberdeen has secured a major award from the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) to support PhD research across the arts and humanities disciplines.

    This award underscores the University’s international reputation for research excellence in the arts and humanities, and also our commitment to supporting and preparing the next generation of scholars to ensure the vitality of arts and humanities disciplines.” Professor Nicholas Forsyth

    The five-year £500K award will provide 15 scholarships to outstanding PhD candidates, with a further £1M provided to foster collaboration with other Scottish Universities through a regional training hub. The PhD candidates will come from a range of disciplines at the University including the School of Divinity, History, Philosophy and Art History, the School of Law, the School of Language, Literature, Music and Visual Culture, and the Archaeology department within the School of Geosciences. 

    Professor Nicholas Forsyth, the University of Aberdeen’s Vice-Principal for Research said: “This award underscores the University’s international reputation for research excellence in the arts and humanities, and also our commitment to supporting and preparing the next generation of scholars to ensure the vitality of arts and humanities disciplines.” 

    The AHRC Executive Chair, Professor Christopher Smith said: “The AHRC doctoral landscape awards provide flexible funding to allow universities to build on existing excellence in research and opportunities for innovation across the arts and humanities.” 

    This AHRC award follows other recent successes in securing support for PhD research and training. The Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) have confirmed a combined £9M investment in a PhD research and training programme led by the University of Aberdeen to prepare the next generation of environmental scientists who can tackle global environmental grand challenges such as the climate crisis and biodiversity loss. 

    This combined success has been welcomed in a motion raised in the Scottish Parliament by Kevin Stewart, MSP for Aberdeen Central, highlighting that “Investment recognises the excellence of the University of Aberdeen’s research and its commitment to training PhD students as innovative research leaders.” 

    Professor Stuart Piertney, the University’s Dean for Postgraduate Research said: “Securing funding for PhD research and training that spans science to arts subjects allows the University to deliver on its commitments to grow a vibrant and diverse postgraduate community that is empowered to make high-impact contributions to both academia and society.” 

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Director of Public Health Report05 February 2025 ​Professor Peter Bradley has today published his second Director of Public Health Report which looks at the evidence for investing in prevention. This year’s Director of Public Health Report considers… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    05 February 2025

    ​

    Professor Peter Bradley has today published his second Director of Public Health Report which looks at the evidence for investing in prevention. 

    This year’s Director of Public Health Report considers the case for prevention in the Jersey context and details: 

    • the current burden of disease faced by Islanders 
    • how that burden is not equally spread across the Island 
    • how the Island’s aging population is likely impact on future health 
    • an estimate of the costs of this aging population 
    • a summary of the evidence of the effectiveness of a preventative approach.

    Director of Public Health, Professor Peter Bradley, said: “I am pleased to be publishing this report and raise awareness of the importance of investing in health prevention. This report highlights that prevention is not just about avoiding illness; Investing in prevention means Islanders can enjoy better health and wellbeing, employers have a healthier workforce, and healthcare systems can allocate resources more effectively to those in greatest need.

    “Building on existing work and improvements already made, we can embed prevention into our policies across government, as well as into the community, ensuring our Island remains an attractive place to live, work, and visit.” 

    The full report and executive summary are attached and will be made available online at Public Health reports​.​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Howard Davis Hall update10 February 2025 Jersey Property Holdings, JPH, has been overseeing the relocation and display of memorabilia within the Howard Davis Hall. The portraits, including that of TB Davis, will be positioned securely. Restoration… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    10 February 2025

    Jersey Property Holdings, JPH, has been overseeing the relocation and display of memorabilia within the Howard Davis Hall. 

    The portraits, including that of TB Davis, will be positioned securely. Restoration of TB Davis’s portrait is currently in progress under the expert supervision of Jersey Heritage, and it will be reinstated in its original place upon completion. 

    To enhance public access, JPH is arranging for the hall to be open to visitors: 

    When: Starting Saturday 15 February 2025 

    Time: 11am to 3pm on Weekends, for the following seven weekends. 

    Additionally, discussions are underway with Jersey Heritage to manage the hall.

    Infrastructure Minister, Constable Andy Jehan, said: “The Howard Davis Hall holds significant historical and cultural value for our Island. Ensuring its preservation while increasing public access is a key priority. I’m pleased to see progress on this work and look forward to seeing the hall brought back into greater use for the community.”​

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Revision to Planning guidance11 February 2025 Enhancing Jersey’s Planning ServiceDeputy Steve Luce, Minister for the Environment, MENV, has introduced revisions to various aspects of planning guidance as part of Goverment CSP to reforming the Island’s… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    11 February 2025

    Enhancing Jersey’s Planning Service

    Deputy Steve Luce, Minister for the Environment, MENV, has introduced revisions to various aspects of planning guidance as part of Goverment CSP to reforming the Island’s planning service. 

    These changes are aimed at creating positive development while ensuring clarity and flexibility in planning policies. 

    Removal of 3,000 sq ft Floorspace Limit 

    The Minister has removed the 3,000 sq ft (279 sqm) floorspace limit on new residential developments, a restriction introduced by the previous administration. 

    Deputy Luce said: “I have been concerned that there is a perception that this is an absolute cap on development, limiting homeowners from extending or improving their dwellings. This is not the case, and the position is more nuanced. 

    “The continuation of this restriction in planning guidance is unhelpful. There is already a robust policy framework within the Island Plan, supplemented by additional planning guidance, which effectively manages the development of new or extended large dwellings across the island.”

    To implement this decision, three pieces of supplementary planning guidance have been revised: 

    • Housing Outside the Built-Up Area 
    • Density Standards 
    • Residential Space Standards 

    Greater Flexibility for Windows and Doors in Listed Buildings

    The Minister has also revised planning guidance to provide more flexibility regarding changes to windows and doors in certain listed buildings. 

    Windows and doors are key elements of Jersey’s historic buildings. In the 1990s, the Island Development Committee introduced controls to regulate their replacement, responding to the widespread installation of modern PVCu windows that resulted in the loss of many original features. 

    With advancements in material performance and adaptability, planning policies for replacing windows in listed buildings have evolved. Greater flexibility already exists for the introduction of double-glazing where original historic windows are beyond repair. The Minister has now further revised planning guidance to allow additional flexibility in replacing plastic windows in listed buildings. 

    Deputy Luce said: “Modern materials and technologies now offer improved thermal performance while better replicating the design and appearance of historic windows and doors. 

    “I want to enable the replacement of existing plastic windows in Grade 3 and Grade 4 listed buildings with windows made from composite materials — provided they deliver an overall improvement to the character and appearance of the building. This ensures improved thermal performance while also repairing the damage caused when original windows were lost.” 

    These revisions aim to balance heritage conservation with modern energy efficiency improvements, ensuring Jersey’s historic buildings can be preserved while adapting to contemporary needs. 

    The revised planning guidelines are available on the government website: 

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council seeking public’s feedback on leisure facilities

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Council seeking public’s feedback on leisure facilities

    11 February 2025

    Derry City and Strabane District Council are inviting the public to have their say on its leisure services through an online survey.
    The Customer Satisfaction survey aims to gather customer feedback on a range of factors including the quality of facilities, value for money, cleanliness and quality of service.
    Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Lilian Seenoi-Barr, urged as many people as possible to complete the surveys to allow them to provide the best possible service in the future.
    “We want to get a better understanding of what the public’s expectations are from our leisure services so we can tailor them to meet user needs and make informed decisions about future projects,” she said.
    “We want as many service users as possible to take the survey – the more people who give us feedback the more we can give the public what they want.
    “The survey is open to anyone and we want everyone to give us their feedback regardless of your level of fitness and physical activity.”
    Derry and Strabane District Council operate ten Leisure facilities in the region offering a wide range of both indoor and outdoor sporting activities.
    The centres are Foyle Arena, Bishop’s Field, Templemore Sports Complex, Brooke Park, Derg Valley Leisure Centre, Riversdale Leisure Centre, Melvin Sports Complex, Brandywell Stadium, Waterside Shared Village and City Baths.
    The closing date for the surveys is Sunday March 2nd and you can access online at derrystrabane.com/leisure or at the following link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HV9JWGV
     

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Deputy Mayor attends Strabane Health and Wellbeing event

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Deputy Mayor attends Strabane Health and Wellbeing event

    11 February 2025

    There was a great turn out at a special health and wellbeing event held this week in Strabane, featuring helpful advice and information from a range of local organisations.

    The event was delivered in partnership with Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Age Friendly Programme, Sports Development team, the Strabane Health Improvement Project, Neighbourhood Health Improvement Project and Strabane District Caring Services.

    As well as information stands offering advice on support available locally, those attending took part in cookery demonstrations and talks on nutrition, and found out more about complementary therapies, advice on avoiding trips and falls, and skin scanning.

    The event was attended by Deputy Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Alderman Darren Guy, who took the opportunity to remind people how important it was to regularly check for any signs or symptoms that could be of concern.

    “I found the health and wellbeing event at Melvin extremely informative, with lots of experts on hand to advise and offer support in relation to a number of health areas,” he said afterwards.

    “Sometimes going to a doctor can be intimidating and lots of people feel they don’t want to add to the pressures on the health service by asking advice about minor issues. But those smaller problems can be signs of more serious conditions and it’s vitally important that we get them checked out.

    “By taking part in regular screenings we can keep on top of our health, and there is lots of support out there when it comes to fitness, nutrition and alternative therapies that have wide-ranging benefits. I want to thank everyone who took part in this week’s session, and encourage people to keep an eye out for future events in their area.”

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Nominate an amazing young person in the first London Youth Achievement Awards

    Source: Mayor of London

    Londoners are urged to nominate the young people making a difference in their city for the inaugural London Youth Achievement Awards.

    The Awards are an opportunity for the London Assembly, in close collaboration with the London Youth Assembly (LYA), to recognise the valuable impact that young people make in the capital.

    This awards programme will showcase and celebrate the breadth of inspirational activities and achievements accomplished by young people across London.

    The categories are:

    • Innovative Initiative Award
    • Young Leader Award
    • Greener London Award 
    • Young Carer or Care Leaver Award
    • Community Safety award 
    • Youth Voice of London Award 
    • Inclusion and Diversity Award
    • Outstanding Achievement Award 
    • Best Youth Campaign Award  
    • Young Media Champion Award 

    The deadline to nominate a young person for the award is 21 February.

    The Awards will be presented at a City Hall ceremony in May.

    Chair of the London Assembly, Andrew Boff AM, said:

    “There are a huge number of young Londoners who make such a positive difference, but their achievements are not celebrated nearly as often as they should be.

    “If you know a young person who is helping make your community and our city a better place to live, this is your chance to make sure they get the recognition they deserve.

    “It only takes a few minutes to nominate someone and you can put them forward for as many categories as you wish. So please, don’t miss your chance to show a young Londoner some appreciation.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scientific approaches to reduce methane emissions from farm animals

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    In November 2024, a social media storm saw people posting videos of themselves pouring milk down their sinks citing food safety fears. The health scare went viral after an announcement by Arla that they were trialling a new animal feed additive called Bovaer, which is scientifically proven to reduce methane in farm animals. What should have been a good news story about how science and innovation can help agriculture to get to net zero very quickly turned into a health scare complete with conspiracy theories about Bill Gates trying to poison us.

    In fact adding additives to animal feed is just one of a myriad of exciting new science and innovation ideas in the works exploring different approaches to reducing methane emissions from farm animals. This Background Briefing will bring in experts across the agricultural field to explain the science behind some of these techniques, which include genetic breeding approaches, vaccine candidates and ways to alter the ruminant microbiome as well as the feed additives. The FSA’s Chief Scientist will also be with us to answer any remaining questions around Bovaer and the systems in place to test for the safety of dairy products.

    Irish and UK based journalists came to this SMC briefing to hear the science behind some of these approaches.

    Speakers included:

    Prof Robin May, Chief Scientific Advisor, Food Standards Agency (FSA)

    Prof Chris Reynolds, Professor of Animal & Dairy Science, University of Reading

    Prof Richard Dewhurst, Professor of Ruminant Nutrition & Production Systems and Head of the Dairy Research Centre, Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC)

    Prof John Hammond, Director of Research, The Pirbright Institute

    Dr Sinead Waters, Senior Researcher in Host Microbiome Interactions, University of Galway

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: Russia is a leader in the field of nuclear energy

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko took part in a joint meeting of the heads of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the Kurchatov Institute National Research Center and Rosatom, dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the nuclear industry

    February 11, 2025

    Dmitry Chernyshenko took part in a joint meeting of the heads of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the Kurchatov Institute National Research Center and Rosatom, dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the nuclear industry

    February 11, 2025

    Presidential Aide Andrei Fursenko read out Vladimir Putin’s greeting at a joint meeting of the heads of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the Kurchatov Institute National Research Center and Rosatom, dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the nuclear industry

    February 11, 2025

    Director General of the State Corporation Rosatom Alexey Likhachev at a joint meeting of the heads of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the National Research Center Kurchatov Institute and Rosatom, dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the nuclear industry

    February 11, 2025

    President of the Russian Academy of Sciences Gennady Krasnikov at a joint meeting of the heads of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the Kurchatov Institute National Research Center and Rosatom, dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the nuclear industry

    February 11, 2025

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    Dmitry Chernyshenko took part in a joint meeting of the heads of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the Kurchatov Institute National Research Center and Rosatom, dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the nuclear industry

    Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko took part in a joint meeting of the heads of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the Kurchatov Institute National Research Center and Rosatom, dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the nuclear industry.

    Aide to the President of Russia Andrei Fursenko read out a greeting from Vladimir Putin, which, in particular, noted: “It is important that the unique potential and truly inexhaustible innovative capabilities of the nuclear industry today be fully utilized for the purpose of modernizing the national economy, ensuring the country’s defense capability and energy security, and training modern, qualified personnel.”

    Dmitry Chernyshenko thanked the head of Rosatom Alexey Likhachev and the president of the Kurchatov Institute Mikhail Kovalchuk for their systematic and fruitful work on the development of nuclear science and technology. Thanks to the two flagships – Rosatom and the Kurchatov Institute – Russia is implementing the most ambitious projects.

    He also noted the contribution of the First Deputy Chief of the Presidential Administration Sergei Kiriyenko, under whom the necessary foundations were laid for the transformation of the nuclear industry.

    The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that Russian science has always demonstrated impressive results. This is especially noticeable in the history of the nuclear industry. Among the significant names and events are Igor Afrikantov and the construction of the first nuclear icebreaker “Lenin”, Igor Kurchatov and his invaluable contribution to the Soviet nuclear project, and others.

    “Our President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin has set a national goal – technological leadership. In the field of nuclear energy, Russia is truly a leader. It is not easy to be a leader, but it is even more difficult to maintain such a position. To do this, we must continue to develop fundamental and applied science, primarily in the nuclear industry, and train young promising specialists, as the head of state said at a meeting of the Council for Science and Education. The guidelines here are the priorities outlined in the Strategy for Scientific and Technological Development of our country, in the Presidential Decree on priority areas of scientific and technological development and the list of the most important science-intensive technologies,” said Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    The Deputy Prime Minister named the National Center for Physics and Mathematics in Sarov, which is being created on the instructions of the head of state, as an example of successful cooperation between the state, science and business. Modern infrastructure is being built there, including advanced midi-science laboratories and mega-science installations. More than 55 organizations are involved in the cooperation, and the center’s scientific program is currently being implemented by about 2,000 scientists and researchers.

    2025 will be an important stage in the development of the Russian nuclear industry: the national project of technological leadership “New Nuclear and Energy Technologies” has been launched. It includes 10 federal projects, half of which are devoted to nuclear topics. The events were approved at the site of the Commission for Scientific and Technological Development of Russia with the participation of the President of the Russian Academy of Sciences Gennady Krasnikov. The implementation of federal projects is of strategic importance for ensuring the technological sovereignty and leadership of Russia.

    One of the key areas is the development of thermonuclear energy. According to the federal project “Thermonuclear Energy Technologies”, it is planned to build a unique installation – a tokamak with reactor technologies. Russia also has a unique nuclear icebreaker fleet and is constantly increasing its potential. Not only powerful nuclear icebreakers have been put into operation on the Northern Sea Route, but also the world’s only floating nuclear thermal power plant “Akademik Lomonosov”, which is of key importance for the development of the Arctic.

    “Dear friends! In the year of the 80th anniversary of the nuclear industry, our country looks confidently to the future. Of course, only through joint efforts will we successfully implement the tasks set by the President and strengthen Russia’s position as a world leader in the field of nuclear science and technology,” the Deputy Prime Minister addressed the meeting participants.

    The event took place in the historic building of the Rosatom State Corporation in Moscow. It was attended by Rosatom Director General Alexey Likhachev, President of the Russian Academy of Sciences Gennady Krasnikov, President of the Kurchatov Institute National Research Center Mikhail Kovalchuk, as well as representatives of the Ministry of Education and Science, directors and scientific directors of leading industry institutes, outstanding Russian scientists and young specialists.

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How to make a change in your life – and stick to it

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Abigail Parrish, Lecturer in Languages Education, University of Sheffield

    PeopleImages.com – Yuri A/Shutterstock

    Is there a change you’d like to make in your life? Perhaps you’d finally like to write the novel you’ve been thinking about for years. Perhaps you think you should start saving for a holiday or a deposit on a house or flat. Maybe you would like to improve your fitness.

    That’s great. But we all know it can be hard to stick to these kinds of changes. Gym membership figures suggest half of new members quit within six months, and many of us have the evidence of once-loved hobbies scattered around our homes.

    To write that book, for instance, you’re going to have to find time to do it, and stick with it when the going gets tough and initial enthusiasm has worn off.

    Ready to make a change? The Quarter Life Glow-up is a new, six-week newsletter course from The Conversation’s UK and Canada editions.

    Every week, we’ll bring you research-backed advice and tools to help improve your relationships, your career, your free time and your mental health – no supplements or skincare required. Sign up here to start your glow-up at any time.

    First, you should ask yourself why you’re doing it.

    My research looks at the psychology of making changes through the lens of what is known as self-determination theory, which proposes that there are different forms of motivation. These range from, for instance, being motivated to do something because someone is making you do it, to being motivated because you think it’s fun.

    Looked at like this, big changes, such as training for a new career, and smaller ones, like joining a weekly fitness class, are all the same. What matters is the reason you have for doing it.

    Find the right reason

    You might have more than one reason for making a change. Perhaps you want to start something because it’s a TikTok trend and everyone else seems to be doing it, or maybe the suggestion is coming from someone in your life. These are external reasons to do something, and this type of motivation is less likely to lead to success.

    Focus on the ones that are “internalised” – that come from within yourself. If you can find a reason why the change is important to you and you have your own motivation to make it, you’re much more likely to stick with it. It needs to be something that is aligned with your values – something you believe in.

    So what you’re doing doesn’t even have to be something you enjoy, as long as it’s something you feel is important to you.

    Think of deciding to save money, for example. This isn’t an activity that is inherently fun for most people, but the act of saving might be important because of what it represents or leads to – the holiday at the end of it, or the house you could buy with the money you put away. When you start to waver in your goal, thinking of that personal reason will help you keep going.

    You don’t necessarily have to enjoy something to be motivated to keep doing it.
    New Africa/Shutterstock

    There are two other important concepts from self-determination theory mixed up in the idea of an action being aligned with personal values. When you do something that comes from your values, you should be acting with autonomy – doing something you want to do, not something other people have made you do.

    That’s a key construct in the theory, but it can be hard to align with things like work or study. Perhaps your goal is to apply yourself at work or to get a good grade in your studies. But most people have a boss, or a supervisor, and their role is to instruct you on what to do.

    If you’re a teacher, you have to work to the school’s timetable, whether you like it or not. But in the jobs where you are most motivated, you will be able to make some choices for yourself. Teaching is an interesting example of when this doesn’t work, because in England this very structured job has become even more so in recent years, coinciding with a recruitment and retention problem in the profession.

    Teacher autonomy is widely studied and considered important even outside of self-determination theory, and a perceived lack of autonomy is likely to be one of the reasons people might want to quit their job.

    Eyes on the goal

    The other really important thing is your goal in making the change. The best kind of goal is an autonomous one, relating to something that is intrinsically important to you. This might be competing at a high level in your sport, because it will give you joy and satisfaction to be the best you can be. This means you will put up with hardships and challenges, and you will keep going even after a bad day.

    By contrast, if your goal is an external one, you might find things more difficult. This includes if you’re doing something for a reward, rather than because something is personally important to you. So if you want to write a bestselling novel to become famous or rich, you may find that as the going gets tough, your motivation slips and work grinds to a halt.

    If you are doing something because other people want you to, even other people who care about you, you will struggle. This may mean that some changes are just not meant to be – or it might mean changing your mindset and how you look at the goals you are aiming for.

    Try to get the support of people who care about you and who you care about, whether this be family and friends, or a new community at your sports club, for example. And finally, keep an eye on your goals. Any change which you are engaging in for yourself because you value it and can see the benefits, is likely to be a lasting one.

    Abigail Parrish 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. How to make a change in your life – and stick to it – https://theconversation.com/how-to-make-a-change-in-your-life-and-stick-to-it-237248

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –