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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Work Capability Assessment draft regulations: letter to Dr Stephen Brien

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence from the DWP to SSAC’s Chair following the judgment in the judicial review into the lawfulness of the consultation on the Work Capability Assessment descriptor changes.

    Documents

    Work Capability Assessment draft regulations: letter to Dr Stephen Brien

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    Details

    Correspondence from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to Dr Stephen Brien, Chair, Social Security Advisory Committee (SSAC) setting out the main findings of the judgment in the judicial review into the lawfulness of the consultation on the Work Capability Assessment descriptor changes.

    Given this judgment, the letter confirms that the draft regulations which would have delivered the Work Capability Assessment descriptor changes, and which were presented to the Social Security Advisory Committee in May 2024, will be withdrawn by the Department for Work and Pensions. Therefore, following discussion between SSAC and DWP, this brings to a conclusion SSAC’s scrutiny of the draft regulations.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 February 2025

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Discover more about the University of Aberdeen As part of a week of celebrations at the University of Aberdeen, members of public are invited to enjoy a family friendly ‘Discovery Day’ at Elphinstone Hall.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    Check out the University’s Discovery Day on Monday 10 FebruaryAs part of a week of celebrations at the University of Aberdeen, members of public are invited to enjoy a family friendly ‘Discovery Day’ at Elphinstone Hall.

    As Discovery Day falls during the midterm holidays, it is an ideal opportunity for families to come along and sample just a flavour of some of the research currently taking place – and it’s a mixed pot with something for everyone!” Dr Chris Croly

    Discovery Day is part of a programme of events celebrating Founders’ Week, which marks the 530th anniversary of the University, and will take place on Monday (February 10). 

    Researchers from across the University will be on hand with interactive activities to demonstrate just some of the ground-breaking research currently being undertaken. From the fascinating world of microfossils to the making of a magic book, to Chinese craft activities to the Rowett Institute’s ‘mini-mart’, there will be plenty going on to keep everyone occupied. 

    Those who come along can also enjoy tours of the Old Aberdeen campus, or a visit to the Zoology Museum, while TechFest will also be attending with some of their family-friendly STEM activities. 

    Dr Chris Croly, Public Engagement with Research Manager at the University said: “We are all very excited to be opening the doors of Elphinstone Hall to families from across the region as we celebrate 530 years of the University of Aberdeen! 

    “When Bishop Elphinstone established the University all those years ago, its foundational purpose was to be open to all and dedicated to the pursuit of truth in the service of others, and this is still the ethos of the University today. As Discovery Day falls during the midterm holidays, it is an ideal opportunity for families to come along and sample just a flavour of some of the research currently taking place – and it’s a mixed pot with something for everyone! I hope anyone who takes the opportunity to visit us, enjoys the day and learns a little bit more about some of the research currently underway around our campuses.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Consultation launches on travel improvements to A61 junctions and B6481 Pontefract Road

    Source: City of Leeds

    The second stage of consultation has launched today to improve two key roads linking Leeds to Wakefield and Pontefract.

    Run in partnership with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, the consultation aims to make it safer and more accessible to walk, wheel and cycle, as well as improving bus reliability. 

    The consultation follows on from a previous public engagement where residents were asked about initial proposals for the schemes. Results from the first round include:

    • When asked about the zone in which there were proposed improvements to A61 Jumbles Lane and Carlton Lane junctions, 53% of respondents felt positive towards the proposals, while 28% felt negative.
    • When asked about the zones in which there were proposed improvements to B6481 Pontefract Road, 52% of respondents felt positive towards the proposals, while 33% felt negative.

    For the A61 in Lofthouse, the proposals focus on two key junctions which have known safety concerns, lack of safe crossing points for school students and pedestrians, and cars travelling at speed – the A61 Jumbles Lane junction and the A61 Carlton Lane junction.

    Improvements to B6481 Pontefract Road, from Thwaite Gate to M1 junction 44, focus on creating a segregated cycle track along the route, linking to existing cycling provision on the A639 Thwaite Gate, allowing residents a safer and more direct route to Leeds City Centre and the ability to access businesses along the industrial estate, which often operates night-time shifts which are not suited to public transport use.

    If the proposals were to go ahead, a £9.14million funding pot from the Government’s Transforming Cities Fund, ringfenced to transport schemes, would be invested to carry out the works – £2m for the A61 and £7.14m for Pontefract Road.

    Proposals for the A61 include:

    • Wider pavements and footpaths, including doubling pavement width on Long Thorpe Lane, on the approach to Rodillian Academy, to help students and people feel safer when walking in the area
    • Shared-use footways to help cyclists travel easily and safely
    • New traffic signals at the Jumbles Lane junction to help improve traffic flow and offer safe crossings for people walking and cycling in the area.
    • Traffic signals to be fitted with new technology which will give buses priority and improve bus journey times and reliability
    • On-carriageway cycle lanes and advanced stop lines at the Jumbles Lane junction
    • Existing traffic island crossing, near Nisa Local, upgraded to a signalised pedestrian crossing to make it easier for people walking to cross
    • A road closure for motor vehicles at the Carlton Lane/A61 junction. This is a hotspot for collisions, and vehicles travel at speed along the road. Motor vehicles will access Carlton Road via Jumbles Lane.
    • New landscaping and greenery

     Proposals for B6481 Pontefract Road include:

    • Wider pavements and footpaths to allow safer access to bus stops and local businesses
    • New and improved crossing facilities for people on foot and wheeling at various key locations
    • New, separate cycle crossing facilities for people cycling, at various key locations
    • Creation of a one-way, segregated cycle path either side of Pontefract Road, linking to existing provision on A639 Thwaite Gate. Some areas of shared use footways.
    • Signalising of the rail bridge tunnel – shuttle working traffic lights will be installed to control the flow of vehicles, allowing one direction of traffic to pass at a time, improving safety and bus reliability
    • New landscaping and greenery

    Following feedback, the council is proposing to deliver these improvements first to meet the funding deadline, subject to the second round of consultation. The remaining proposals which are not currently being taken forward may be revisited in future should funding become available.

    Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said:

    “This scheme will create a safer and more accessible experience for all types of road user on these roads. The proposals help people access Leeds City Centre, local amenities and employment by creating alternative, sustainable ways to travel to essential destinations.

    By offering safe and easy alternatives to the car, we can help to meet our Leeds Transport Strategy targets and create a prosperous, less congested Leeds, with healthier residents”.

     Councillor Peter Carlill, Deputy Chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority Transport Committee, said: 

    “These proposals will make it easier and safer for everyone to walk, wheel, cycle and use public transport on two busy routes. I’d encourage people to have their say so that we can continue building a greener, better-connected West Yorkshire for all.”

    Have your say

    You can have your say before the consultation closes on 11.59pm on 10 March 2025.

    1.      Feedback online by visiting the Your Voice webpage.

    2.      Attend one of our in-person drop-in events:

    • Wednesday 12 February 2025, 6:30-9pm – Main Hall, The Rodillian Academy, Longthorpe Lane, WF3 3PS.
    • Tuesday 18 February 2025, 11am-3pm – Hunslet Library, Waterloo Road, LS10 2NS. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: January dry, sunny

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    With the dominance of a dry northeast monsoon over southern China, January was marked by dry and sunny weather, the Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) said today.

    The monthly total sunshine duration amounted to 222.3 hours, about 52% above the norm.

    Only 4.2mm of rainfall was recorded in the month, about 13% of the norm.

    The month was also slightly warmer than usual with a mean temperature of 17.1 degrees Celsius, 0.6 degrees above the norm, the HKO added.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Atos ranked in the top 5% of the IT Services industry in the 2024 S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

                                                                    Press Release

    Atos ranked in the top 5% of the
    IT Services industry in the 2024
    S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment

    Paris, France – February 4, 2025 – Atos Group today announces that it has been recognized by S&P Global as one of the most sustainable companies worldwide in its industry for the 11th consecutive year. Atos achieved a score of 74/100 in the 2024 S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA), placing Atos within the top 5% of the IT services industry among 166 companies assessed with an average industry score of 32/100. This high rating reflects Atos’ long-standing dedication to sustainability and its exemplary performance in Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) practices.

    The assessment highlighted significant strengths in environmental management and the transparency of sustainable reporting, recognizing Atos’ ambitious environmental program, which started 14 years ago.

    Alexandra Knupe, Group Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, Atos comments “Atos is proud to rank within the top 5% of IT services companies globally. The S&P Global CSA recognizes our commitment and continuous development towards excellence in Environmental, Social & Governance practices. By continuously improving our practices, we aim to set a benchmark in the industry and contribute positively to global environmental and social challenges”.

    The S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment is an annual evaluation of companies’ sustainability practices. It covers over 10,000 companies globally. The CSA has been assessing sustainability criteria that are both general and industry-specific since 1999. More information about the CSA methodology can be found here.

    Atos has recently been awarded a “Platinum” EcoVadis Medal for its commitment to sustainability for the 5th consecutive year, following 8 years of receiving the EcoVadis Gold Medal. Find out more about Atos’ CSR program here.

    ***

    About Atos

    Atos is a global leader in digital transformation with c. 82,000 employees and annual revenue of c. € 10 billion. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, the Group provides tailored end-to-end solutions for all industries in 69 countries. A pioneer in decarbonization services and products, Atos is committed to a secure and decarbonized digital for its clients. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea) and listed on Euronext Paris.

    The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.

    Press contact

    Florence Vayleux | florence.vayleux@atos.net | +33 (0) 6 32 12 22 96

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE to visit Harbin

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    At the invitation of the Heilongjiang Provincial Government, Chief Executive John Lee and his wife, Janet Lee, will visit Harbin on Thursday to attend the opening ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games Harbin 2025 the following day.

    During the visit, Mr Lee will meet the Hong Kong, China Delegation to the Asian Winter Games and attend some of events at the games to cheer for Hong Kong’s athletes. He will also visit cultural and tourism facilities there to learn more about the development of those sectors in Harbin.

    The Chief Executive will return to Hong Kong on February 11. During his absence, Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki will be Acting Chief Executive.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Destroyer Squadron 50 Assumes Operation Prosperity Guardian Mission

    Source: United States Naval Central Command

    MANAMA, Bahrain —

    Combined Maritime Forces’ (CMF) Combined Task Force (CTF) 153 handed over responsibility for Operation Prosperity Guardian, the presence and information-sharing mission to counter unlawful Houthi attacks on maritime shipping in the Red Sea region, to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 50, Feb. 1.

    DESRON 50, the surface warfare task force under U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, will continue OPG’s commitment to freedom of navigation and the free flow of commerce in the Southern Red Sea, Bab al-Mandab, and Western Gulf of Aden.

    “CMF’s CTF-153 has done a spectacular job leading OPG and I thank all of the members who committed to this important mission,” said Vice Adm. George Wikoff, commander of CMF. “There will be no change to the important role OPG contributes to regional maritime security.”

    “DESRON 50 brings immediate continuity to the mission,” Wikoff said.

    More than 20 nations participated in OPG, providing ships, personnel, and information support since the focused operation was announced in December 2023. Wikoff said CMF personnel who participated in OPG, “performed their duties with exceptional professionalism.”

    The Joint Maritime Information Center, established in February 2024 as part of OPG’s information sharing mission, will expand its role within the CMF as an authoritative information source for regional maritime reporting.

    “Through dialogue and building close relationships with industry and with CMF, JMIC continues to provide real-time information to enable informed decisions, contributing to overall domain awareness,” said Capt. Lee Stuart, JMIC Director.

    Combined Maritime Forces, a 46-nation naval partnership, is headquartered in Bahrain and is the world’s largest multinational naval partnership, committed to upholding the rules-based international order at sea. It promotes security, stability and prosperity across approximately 3.2 million square miles of international waters, encompassing some of the world’s most important shipping lanes.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI China: China files complaint with WTO against US tariff hikes

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China has filed a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO)’s dispute settlement mechanism against the U.S. decision to impose an additional 10-percent tariff on goods from China, the Ministry of Commerce (MOC) said Tuesday.

    The move is to safeguard China’s legitimate rights and interests, an MOC spokesperson said in response to media inquiries.

    The U.S. imposition of additional tariffs on Chinese products has seriously violated the WTO rules, and this egregious act is typical of unilateralism and trade protectionism, said the spokesperson.

    The spokesperson said the U.S. move severely undermines the rules-based multilateral trading system, erodes the foundation of China-U.S. economic and trade cooperation, and disrupts the stability of global industrial and supply chains.

    The United States has repeatedly put unilateralism above multilateralism, incurring strong condemnation from the majority of the WTO members. “China firmly opposes the U.S. actions, and urges the U.S. side to immediately rectify its wrongdoings,” the spokesperson said.

    As a staunch supporter and significant contributor to the multilateral trading system, China stands ready to work with other WTO members to address the challenges posed by unilateralism and trade protectionism to the multilateral trading system, and to safeguard the orderly and stable development of international trade, added the spokesperson.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Get winter strong – free flu vaccinations still available

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    They include all adults aged 65 years and over, people who live in a care home for older adults, people aged 6 months to 64 years with health conditions that make them more vulnerable, frontline health and social care staff including those working in care homes for older adults, and pregnant women.

    Those eligible can get their vaccination without an appointment at one of a number of pop-up clinics being held in Wolverhampton until the end of March.

    They include clinics at: Sainsburys, Bentley Bridge, from 11am to 6pm on Thursdays 6 February, 20 February, 6 March and 20 March; Queen Square, Wolverhampton, from 9am to 3pm on Fridays 7 February, 21 February, 7 March and 21 March; and Sainsburys, Raglan Street, Wolverhampton, from 9am to 3pm on Thursdays 13 February, 27 February, 13 March and 27 March.

    Clinics are also operating in other parts of the Black Country – for full details please visit 
    Flu pop-up vaccination clinics.

    Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing, said: “It’s vital that we all do everything we can to protect ourselves from winter illnesses such as flu, especially those of us who may be at higher risk.

    “I would therefore encourage anyone who is yet to have their flu vaccination this winter to get it at one of the pop-up clinics taking place over the next few weeks, and ideally sooner rather than later.”

    Anyone not eligible for a free flu vaccination is reminded that they can still get it for a small charge at participating pharmacists.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Metropolitan of Pskov and Porkhov Matthew visited the Polytechnic University

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    On February 3, the Polytechnic University was visited by Metropolitan of Pskov and Porkhov, Abbot of the Holy Dormition Pskov-Pechersky Monastery Matfey (Kopylov). The visit was part of the events in honor of the 125th anniversary of the Polytechnic University. The guest got acquainted with the history of the university and its current activities, and discussed opportunities for cooperation.

    The tour of the university began with the Main Academic Building, where Metropolitan Matfey of Pskov and Porkhov got acquainted with the gallery of outstanding polytechnic scientists. In the SPbPU History Museum, its director Valery Klimov spoke about the most important events in the history of the Polytechnic, presented interesting facts and showed key exhibits. In the Technopolis Polytechnic research building, the university’s scientific secretary Dmitry Karpov demonstrated a model of the SPbPU campus.

    During the visit, the bishop met with the rector of SPbPU Andrey Rudskoy. The meeting was also attended by the vice-rector for youth policy and communication technologies Maxim Pasholikov and a member of the initiative group to save the church in Belskoye Ustye Valery Silin.

    The Church of the Ascension of the Lord is located in the village of Belskoye Ustye in the Porkhov District, where the grave of Prince Andrei Gagarin, an outstanding Russian scientist and engineer, the first director of the Polytechnic University, is also located. The 18th-century church is the largest patrimonial church in the Pskov land, which has no analogues in the architectural heritage of the region. It is an integral part of the cultural and historical complex, which includes the estate of Prince A. G. Gagarin in Kholomki, the main building of which was restored by the Polytechnic University in 2013, as well as the outskirts of Porkhov with their unique fortresses, churches and temples.

    The Church of the Ascension of the Lord is one of the pearls of the Pskov region for tourists, especially for pilgrims. It is important to develop tourist routes around Pskov. Together we contribute to the great cause of the revival of Russian history, Andrey Rudskoy emphasized.

    The meeting participants considered possible areas of cooperation in the reconstruction of the church, ways of attracting benefactors, organizing a board of trustees for the implementation of the project, as well as the possibility of opening a Sunday school at the church.

    The first Church of the Ascension of the Lord was built in 1796 with funds from Colonel Artemon Kozhin in his estate Belskoye Ustye in Porkhov district. In the early 1860s, Artemon Osipovich’s son, Pyotr, decided to build a new church, as the old one had fallen into disrepair. The new building was erected according to the design of the St. Petersburg architect Shestakov in the style of early classicism with elements of baroque. In October 1898, a church-parish trusteeship was founded, and in November 1887, a church-parish school began operating.

    A. G. Gagarin often visited the church, and after his death on December 22, 1921, he was buried in this church and buried in the local cemetery. In 1921-1922, a colony of the House of Arts was opened in the estate of Prince Gagarin. Among its participants were famous writers and artists K. I. Chukovsky, E. I. Zamyatin, M. L. Lozinsky, M. L. Slonimsky, M. M. Zoshchenko, V. F. Khodasevich, O. E. Mandelstam and others. All of them regularly visited the Church of the Ascension of the Lord. In 1921, the colony held a memorial service for Alexander Blok there. In the 1960s, the church was closed due to its emergency condition.

    In 2014, an initiative group was created, which included the heads of SPbPU, representatives of the Pskov Region Committee on Culture, Pskov State University, the administration of the Porkhov District, and the St. Petersburg branch of the All-Russian public movement “Orthodox Russia”. Since 2017, active work has been underway to restore and rebuild the church.

    Photo archive

    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 Russia: Registration for the business ideas competition has started at the Polytechnic University

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    The Polytechnic University has opened registration for the fifth youth competition of entrepreneurial and business ideas, The Blue Ocean Open Polytech Entrepreneurship Competition — 2025. The event is aimed at developing strategies for creating markets free from competition.

    Blue Ocean Strategy was developed in the early 2000s by INSEAD business school professors Chan Kim and Renee Mauborgne. Contestants study six basic analytical tools of Blue Ocean Strategy in a special platform, apply them to solve a practical case and develop an entrepreneurial idea.

    Since 2020, the event has been gathering students from different countries who want to understand how to create a product based on the concept of value innovation, when the consumer gets new value and the manufacturer reduces costs.

    During the competition, more than 850 representatives from Russia and foreign countries took part in it. These are teams of 1 to 4 people, consisting of university students and postgraduates, as well as college students and high school students.

    The organizers are the Foundation for the Support and Development of Innovations “Polytech”, the Higher School of Industrial Management of the Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade of SPbPU, the Higher School of Technological Entrepreneurship of the Advanced Engineering School “Digital Engineering” of SPbPU.

    The competition is held remotely and includes the following stages:

    registration — team formation from February 1 to 28; study of the basics of the Blue Ocean strategy — solving a practical case from March 1 to 31, summing up the results is planned from April 1 to 7 with further announcement of the results of the second stage on April 8; development of a Blue Ocean strategy for a startup, entrepreneurial idea or idea generation from scratch by April 20, summing up the results will take place from April 21 to 28, announcement of the competition results is planned for April 29.

    This year, the case for the second stage was proposed by the company “Profilans IT”. Participants need to propose IT projects for the development and training of students. The company is ready to assist the best authors who present real and marketable projects in their implementation. The results of the competition will be shown in the format of a video presentation.

    The award ceremony will take place in May. All teams that pass three stages of the competition will receive certificates of participation. Winners and prize winners will be awarded diplomas and additional points for admission to the Polytechnic University’s master’s program in the IPMEiT areas without exams based on winning the portfolio competition: 60 points will be awarded to winners, 40 points to prize winners.

    The prize fund of the competition is 160,000 rubles. The general partner (Profilans IT) provided 140,000 rubles.

    For first place the team will receive 60,000 rubles, for second place – 40,000 rubles, for third place – 20,000 rubles.

    The prize for the most technologically advanced project is 20,000 rubles.

    A special prize “To the captain of the winning team” (20,000 rubles) was provided by the competition partner, General Director of PSS LLC Pavel Balobanov.

    Registration can be done on the portal Leader Idand in social networks “Vkontakte”.

    Contacts

    The chairman of the jury is associate professor of the Higher School of Industrial Management Anastasiy Klimin, Klimin_ai@spbsta.ru.

    Manager – student of the bachelor’s program “Marketing” of the Higher School of Industrial Management, winner of the competition for the 2021-2022 academic year Kristina Shabalina, Shabalin2.Koy@ed.Sspbstst.ru.

    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 Russia: Marat Khusnullin: A new research and production building was built for the marine technical university in St. Petersburg

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    The construction of a new research and production building for the Saint Petersburg State Marine Technical University has been completed. This was announced by Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin. This is the only university in Russia that trains specialists in the entire spectrum of shipbuilding specialties.

    “Creating comfortable conditions for students to study and live is one of the priorities of our construction complex. On the instructions of the President, a network of world-class university campuses is being created. Some of these projects are being implemented by the public-law company “Single Customer in Construction”. At the same time, the infrastructure of other universities is being developed. For example, for students of the St. Petersburg State Marine Technical University, the construction of a new building of the research and production building has been completed. We have already received a certificate of conformity. The construction of this building will give students the opportunity to acquire practical skills and in-depth knowledge in the field of marine technology,” said the Deputy Prime Minister.

    The building will provide the material resources necessary for students to acquire industrial skills.

    “Construction work in the new building for the maritime university was carried out within the framework of the comprehensive state program “Construction”, supervised by the Ministry of Construction of Russia. The research and production building consists of two blocks – production and administrative. The first part of the building is represented by three functional zones, where the Institute of Laser and Welding Technologies, training rooms for mechanical processing and a training shipyard will be located,” said Deputy Minister of Construction and Housing and Public Utilities Yuri Gordeev.

    Overall, the construction of the new facility will ensure the development of the university’s research potential.

    “The total area of the new educational building is more than 2.6 thousand square meters. It is planned to put it into operation in 2025,” said Karen Oganesyan, General Director of the Unified Customer PPC.

    Saint Petersburg State Marine Technical University is a leading center of advanced scientific, technical and educational technologies.

    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 Asia-Pac: MOEA Establishes Real-Time Consultation Hotline to Assist Taiwanese Businesses in Responding to U.S. Tariff Measures

    Source: Republic Of China Taiwan 2

    To address the impact of U.S. tariffs on Taiwanese companies operating overseas, the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) has commissioned the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) and the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) to implement various support measures, thereby enabling businesses to make adjustments to supply chains and investment strategies. These support measures include:

    1. Establishing a Task Force and Consultation Hotline for Immediate Assistance
    TAITRA has set up task forces in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Southeast Asia, and South Asia to provide real-time support. A consultation hotline is available at +886-2-27577190.

    2. Providing Customized Services for Businesses to Expand Overseas Deployments
    The MOEA offers market insights for businesses relocating to the U.S. or other regions, which include investment locations, regulations, and partnership opportunities. Companies shifting production to supply local domestic markets receive regulatory guidance and networking support.

    3. Establishing a Service Center for Investment and Trade in the U.S. to Support Supply Chain Relocation
    Under the policy of “Connecting Taiwan to the World”, the MOEA will establish a Taiwan Investment and Trade Center in the U.S. It will help businesses assess investment environments, shift supply chains, and link with local partners.

    4. Strengthening Taiwan-U.S. Industrial Collaboration and Assisting Taiwanese Businesses with Innovation and Upgrading
    ITRI’s North America office will actively promote R&D and manufacturing collaborations, assist businesses in finding local partners, facilitate technological advancement, and boost competitiveness.

    The MOEA will remain committed to monitoring global trade trends and supporting Taiwanese businesses in adapting to market changes.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Applications now open for the 2025 Samsung Solve for Tomorrow STEM Competition

    Source: Samsung

    Applications for the 2025 Samsung Solve for Tomorrow STEM Competition are now open. The competition is aimed at empowering young people through education and skill enhancement, particularly focusing on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). Applications opened on Monday, January 27 and close on February 28, 2025.
     
    The competition seeks to foster innovation among high school learners from underprivileged backgrounds throughout South Africa.  Grade 10 and 11 learners attending public schools are encouraged to apply. Participants will be tasked with addressing genuine community problems using STEM principles, thus improving their analytical abilities and gaining professional guidance from Samsung employees.
     
    Teams stand a chance to win exciting prizes and the recognition as South Africa’s next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.
     

     
    This year’s theme, “Infrastructure and Safety,” challenges learners to tackle pressing issues in their schools and communities. They have an opportunity to explore creative solutions in one of the following topics:
     
    Energy-Efficient Schools – Develop practical and sustainable ways to reduce energy consumption in schools.
     
    Innovative Transport Solutions for Learners in Rural/Township schools – Design efficient and accessible transport systems for learners in remote areas.
     
    Affordable Safety Devices for Learners Traveling Long Distances – Create low-cost, effective tools to enhance the safety of learners during their daily commutes.
     
    Qualifying criteria
    Entries should be made by a team of 2 to 5 learners
    Must choose one topic to address
    The school must be a quintile 1 – 4 public school
    Applicants must be South African Citizens
    Entries should be made on the Samsung Solve for tomorrow website
     

     
    How to Apply:
    Application forms are accessible online. Visit our website https://www.samsung.com/za/solvefortomorrow/  to register your school and submit your team’s proposal.
     
    Do not miss this opportunity to empower your learners to think big, collaborate, and shape the future of South Africa. Together, we can inspire change, one idea at a time. Join us and be part of the movement to change our communities’ problems using STEM.
     
    For more information, visit https://www.samsung.com/za/solvefortomorrow/  or contact us at ssasft@samsung.com.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Video: EU Foreign Policy that DeliversAmbassadors Conference

    Source: European Commission (video statements)

    President von der Leyen delivers a speech at the EU Ambassadors Conference 2025

    Follow us on:
    -X: https://twitter.com/EU_Commission
    -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/europeancommission/
    -Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EuropeanCommission
    -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/european-commission/
    -Medium: https://medium.com/@EuropeanCommission

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

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6mXjIziSv5w

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Groundbreaking Ebola vaccination trial launches today in Uganda

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    GENEVA, Switzerland, February 4, 2025/APO Group/ —

    In a global first, Uganda’s Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners today launched a first ever vaccine trial for Ebola from the Sudan species of the virus, and at an unprecedented speed for a randomized vaccine trial in an emergency.

    The principal investigators from Makerere University and the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI), with support from WHO and other partners, have worked tirelessly to get the trial ready in 4 days since the outbreak was confirmed on 30 January. It is the first trial to assess the clinical efficacy of a vaccine against Ebola disease due to Sudan virus. The speed was achieved through advanced research preparedness, while ensuring full compliance with national and international regulatory and ethical requirements.

    The candidate vaccine was donated by IAVI, with financial support from WHO, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC), and the European Commission’s Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA) and support from the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

    “This is a critical achievement towards better pandemic preparedness, and saving lives when outbreaks occur,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO’s Director-General.  “This is possible because of the dedication of Uganda’s health workers, the involvement of communities, the Ministry of Health of Uganda, Makerere University and UVRI, and research efforts led by WHO involving hundreds of scientists through our research and development Filoviruses network. We thank our partners for their dedication and cooperation, from IAVI for donating the vaccine, to CEPI, EU HERA and Canada’s IDRC for funding, and Africa CDC for further support. This massive achievement would simply not be possible without them.”

    In 2022, during the previous outbreak of Ebola disease (also from the Sudan species of the virus) in Uganda, a randomized protocol for candidate vaccines was developed. Principal investigators were designated under the leadership of the Minister of Health, and teams were trained to allow such a trial to take place during an active outbreak.

    The randomized vaccine trial to assess the recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus (rVSV) candidate vaccine was launched at a ceremony in Kampala today by the Minister of Health of Uganda. WHO is co-sponsoring the trial. WHO was represented by Dr Mike Ryan, Executive Director of WHO’s Health Emergencies Programme and Deputy Director-General, and the WHO representative to Uganda Dr Kasonde Mwinga, along with other colleagues.

    Three vaccination rings were defined today. The first ring involves about 40 contacts and contacts of contacts of the first reported and confirmed case, a health worker who has died.

    Although several promising candidate medical countermeasures are progressing through clinical development, as of now, there is no licensed vaccine available to effectively combat a potential future outbreak of Ebola disease from the Sudan species of the virus. Licensed vaccines exist only for the disease caused by Ebola virus, formerly known as Zaïre ebolavirus. Likewise for treatments, approved treatments are only available for Ebola virus.

    The vaccine for the trial was recommended by the independent WHO candidate vaccine prioritization working group. If the candidate vaccine is effective, it can contribute to controlling this outbreak and generate data for vaccine licensure.

    In 2022, the research teams were trained in good clinical practice (GCP) and standard operating procedures for such trials. They completed refresher training in recent days. WHO colleagues experienced in trials and in ring vaccination arrived in Uganda over the weekend to support the trial implementation and GCP compliance.

    The vaccine doses were pre-positioned in the country. WHO worked with the principal investigators and national authorities and the vaccine developer to review cold chain documentation and ensure the doses were stored correctly over the previous years. As part of the signed agreement with the Ministry of Health, WHO has a signed agreement with IAVI for additional doses of the candidate vaccine to be made available shortly.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Open up about your mental health on Time to Talk Day

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Research has found that nearly 2 thirds of people put on a brave face to avoid talking about their mental health, and nearly half are less likely to open up as they don’t want to worry others.

    Time to Talk Day is the nation’s biggest mental health conversation. Run by Mind and Rethink Mental Illness, it is an opportunity for friends, families, communities and workplaces to come together to talk, listen and change lives.

    Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing, said: “Time to Talk Day is all about starting the conversation about mental health.

    “Good mental health is important to all of us and talking openly and honestly can be the first step towards better mental health. It can reduce stigma and help people feel comfortable enough to seek help when they need it.

    “That’s why this Time To Talk Day, we want everyone to get comfortable and start talking about mental health.”

    People can get involved in 1 of 2 events taking place in Wolverhampton to mark Time to Talk Day. The Rethink Sanctuary Hub is hosting games of mental health bingo, quizzes, conversations and more at 01902/Urban Rooms, Queen Square, on Thursday from 10am to 4pm, and Central Library will be hosting a Time to Talk coffee morning on Friday from 10.30am to noon – both events are free and all are welcome.

    It can be hard to open up and share your feelings, but talking can make a big difference to how you feel. The Time to Talk website has handy hints to help you start a conversation here.

    The Better Health – Every Mind Matters website available features lots of NHS approved tips and advice to help you to be kind to your mind and look after your wellbeing.

    If you or someone you know is struggling, there are lots of options for support. For someone to talk to, call SANE on 0300 304 7000 (4.30pm to 10.30pm), Samaritans on 116 123 (24 hours), Rethink Mental Illness on 0300 5000 927 (Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 4pm) or Mind on 0300 123 3393.

    If you need urgent help with your mental health or you are struggling to cope, call NHS 111 and select option 2 (mental health option) to be connected to mental health support, or text 07860 025281.

    Wolverhampton Sanctuary Hub offers out-of-hours support. Book a face-to-face appointment by calling freephone 0808 802 2288, texting 07860 065168 or emailing wolverhamptonsanctuaryhub@rethink.org.

    NHS Talking Therapies offers brief psychological therapy for people experiencing common mental health problems including anxiety, depression, stress and low mood.

    Hub of Hope offers a wide range of local support. And remember that your GP is there to help you with your mental health as well as your physical health.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: More than 2 thousand km of utility networks have been updated under a program with the participation of the federal budget since 2023

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    In 2023, a program to modernize public utilities infrastructure with support from the federal budget was launched. Under it, over 2,000 utility networks were built and modernized in Russian regions, Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin reported.

    “One of the key areas of work of the Russian construction complex in the coming years is the modernization of the public utility infrastructure. This is an extremely important area that directly affects the comfort, mood and well-being of our citizens. At the same time, housing and communal services are one of the most sensitive industries, requiring a lot of attention and work. On the instructions of the President, by 2030, Russia needs to improve the quality of public utilities for 20 million citizens. To achieve this goal, within the framework of the national project “Infrastructure for Life”, we will actively engage in the modernization of the industry. At the same time, there are already certain results. Under the program, with the involvement of the federal budget, over 1.1 thousand events in the public utility sector have been implemented in two years. Since 2023, major repairs, construction and reconstruction of more than 2 thousand km of public utility networks, as well as industrial facilities, including boiler houses, water intake, wastewater treatment facilities have been carried out,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    According to the Deputy Prime Minister, the largest volume of work was carried out by Smolensk Region, where 209.2 km of networks were updated and 6 facilities were put into operation, Sverdlovsk (189.3 km), Chelyabinsk (137.8 km and two facilities) Regions, the Republics of Tatarstan (128 km) and Bashkortostan (115 km).

    “Renovation of housing and communal services is extremely important for improving the quality of life of people, ensuring the safety and energy efficiency of residential buildings. It is important to increase the pace of this work. In 2024 alone, 704 events were implemented under the program with the participation of support from the federal budget, including the construction and modernization of 1.5 thousand km of networks and the commissioning of 11 industrial facilities,” said Minister of Construction and Housing and Communal Services Irek Faizullin.

    Ilshat Shagiakhmetov, CEO of the Territorial Development Fund, the operator of this program, reported that the modernization of the communal infrastructure in the country will be based on data from the automated information system (AIS) of the FRT.

    “It is impossible to improve what cannot be measured. Therefore, the first thing is accounting. It is necessary to understand where and what specific problems need to be solved as a matter of priority. Therefore, in the AIS FRT, we have formed a database of all key elements of the public utility infrastructure. It includes 240 thousand objects, about 1 million km of utility networks and about 12 thousand resource-supplying organizations. Based on this data, together with the Ministry of Construction and the regions, we are preparing a comprehensive plan for the modernization of the public utility infrastructure. We will make every effort to successfully achieve the goals of the national project “Infrastructure for Life”, – noted Ilshat Shagiakhmetov.

    The program for the modernization of public utilities infrastructure is being implemented within the framework of Government Resolution of December 8, 2022 No. 2253Under this mechanism, regions receive subsidies for the renovation of public utility facilities and networks.

    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 Europe: Carlo Zontilli reappointed AISE Deputy Director

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    3 Febbraio 2025

    With a Decree of the President of the Council of Ministers (‘DPCM’) signed by President of the Council of Ministers Giorgia Meloni, Italian Army Division General Carlo Zontilli has been reappointed Deputy Director of the External Intelligence and Security Agency (‘Agenzia Informazioni e Sicurezza Esterna’, ‘AISE’). The Parliamentary Committee for the Security of the Republic (‘Comitato parlamentare per la sicurezza della Repubblica’) has been informed of the appointment.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: General Figliuolo appointed AISE Deputy Director

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    21 Dicembre 2024

    With a Decree of the President of the Council of Ministers (‘DPCM’) signed by President of the Council of Ministers Giorgia Meloni, Italian Army Corps General Francesco Paolo Figliuolo has been appointed Deputy Director of the External Intelligence and Security Agency (‘Agenzia Informazioni e Sicurezza Esterna’, ‘AISE’). The appointment is for a period of two years, and the Parliamentary Committee for the Security of the Republic (‘Comitato parlamentare per la sicurezza della Repubblica’) has been informed thereof.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: EcoEngineers Expands Accreditation and Scope Extensions Internationally

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DES MOINES, Iowa, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EcoEngineers (Eco), a consulting, auditing, and advisory firm with an exclusive focus on the energy transition and decarbonization, today announced two new scope extensions granted by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) National Accreditation Board (ANAB).

    The ANAB scope accreditations are a testament to the firm’s commitment to robust and comprehensive quality management systems. The accreditations underscore the firm’s dedication to providing clients with the assurance, credibility, rigor, and continuous improvement they need on their journey to develop green hydrogen and greenhouse gas (GHG)-mitigation projects worldwide.

    Specifically, Eco was granted scope accreditation for the following:

    1. Green Hydrogen (CFR Sector 4): Verification of applications and reports under Canada’s Clean Fuel Regulations (CFR), strengthening the company’s leadership in hydrogen verification and bolstering Eco’s ability to support U.S.-based clients expanding into Canada and open new avenues for verification projects.
    2. Land Use and Forestry (ANAB Group 3): Verification of GHG emission reductions and removals, including soil carbon sequestration, positioning the company as a leading verifier of sustainable farming practices for Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) crops used as biofuel feedstock.

    The latest scope extensions follow Eco’s accreditation granted by ANAB as a validation and verification body (VVB) in accordance with International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards in 2023 and the CFR Sector 2 Renewable/Bio/Low-CI Fuels scope accreditation achieved in 2024.

    “These new scope extensions demonstrate Eco’s ongoing dedication to excellence in verification and our ability to adapt to the evolving needs of the carbon marketplace,” said Randy Prati, vice president of strategic initiatives at EcoEngineers. “Our clients can rely on us to deliver robust, credible, and transparent verification services.”

    Poised for Growth

    In parallel, Eco is pursuing additional accreditations such as becoming a certification body under international voluntary and regulatory compliance schemes. Eco is also expanding its presence in Europe to obtain national body accreditation recognition, which will allow the firm to offer its clients verification and certification services under multiple European voluntary schemes.

    “Our ability to help clients substantiate their GHG claims through accurate and transparent processes strengthens their credibility and advances the energy transition,” said Shashi Menon, CEO of EcoEngineers. “These new capabilities highlight our position as a trusted partner in the carbon marketplace.”

    About ANAB

    Launched in 2008, ANAB’s accreditation program for GHG/verification bodies oversees the competence and professional conduct of third parties responsible for verifying the accuracy of emission attestations and applies to a broad spectrum of industries. For more information, visit www.anab.org.

    About EcoEngineers

    EcoEngineers is a consulting, auditing, and advisory firm with an exclusive focus on the energy transition and decarbonization. Its team of engineers, scientists, auditors, consultants, and researchers live and work at the intersection of low-carbon fuel policy, innovative technologies, and the carbon marketplace. Eco’s global team is shaping the response to climate change by advising businesses across the energy transition. Visit www.ecoengineers.us.

    Contact:
    Mary Shaughnessy
    For EcoEngineers
    marys@astorystore.com
    312.218.4508

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Empowering women in business: Bangladeshi female entrepreneurs embark on a landmark trade mission to the UK

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Bangladeshi women entrepreneurs representing eight businesses are set to lead a trade mission to the UK.

    A group of diverse and inspirational Bangladeshi women entrepreneurs representing eight businesses are set to lead a trade mission to the United Kingdom in February 2025, with support from the UK Government SheTrades Programme. During the visit, they will be showcasing their businesses, meeting investors and exploring new opportunities.

    Their visit will involve high-level discussions with investors, legislators and corporate executives in the UK and promote cross-border trade between the two countries including under the UK’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS). The DCTS is the UK’s generous preferential trading scheme which provides duty-free, quota-free trade to Bangladesh on everything but arms. The DCTS gives Bangladesh the opportunity to potentially save £317m in tariffs annually on the country’s exports to the UK, the highest among all countries eligible for DCTS.

    British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke hosted a send-off reception at her residence on 3 February to congratulate the entrepreneurs ahead of their departure to the UK.

    The International Trade Centre is implementing this initiative to bring 50 women-led businesses from four Asian countries (Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan and Mongolia) and six African countries (Ghana, Nigeria, Rwanda, Kenya, Zimbabwe and Mozambique) to Manchester on 11 February to hold business-to-business (B2B) meetings with UK companies. Women-led companies in the fresh and processed food, textiles and clothing, handicrafts, beauty, information technology and business process outsourcing sectors will have one-on-one meetings with British buyers who want to diversify their supply chains and increase the competitiveness of their products.

    The businesses chosen from Bangladesh are TMSS ICT and Handicrafts, SuperTel, Opus Technology, Tarango Bangladesh, Parijat Bangladesh, TANIS Bangladesh and Leatherina. Five of these companies already possess the certification needed to enter the UK market and the remaining three are currently being supported by the British Standard Institute (BSI) with necessary accreditation.

    This Mission is hosted in partnership with the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce and financed by UK International Development as part of the SheTrades Commonwealth+ Programme. The London Chamber of Commerce & Industry, the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and the West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce are also supporting the event.

    British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke said:

    The UK government is incredibly proud to support this remarkable group of Bangladeshi women entrepreneurs to develop new markets in the UK. Their inventiveness, tenacity and spirit of entrepreneurship serve as evidence of the enormous potential of Bangladeshi women-led enterprises.

    As Bangladesh and the UK continue to expand our bilateral trade through the UK’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS), the UK will remain a steadfast partner. This trade mission will further solidify our trade and investment relationship.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Property sales dip 10.4%

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Land Registry logged 4,938 sale and purchase agreements for all building units received for registration in January, down 10.4% compared with December 2024 and up 12.2% year-on-year.

    The total consideration for such agreements in January dropped 14.2% from the previous month to $36.7 billion, representing a 9.1% year-on-year growth.

    Of the agreements, 3,626 were for residential units, amounting to an 11.6% decrease from last December and a 4.3% rise from a year ago.

    The total consideration for residential units was $26.7 billion, down 17.9% compared with December 2024 and 3.8% lower year-on-year.

    There were 334,421 land register searches last month.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: AT&T extends voice core relationship with Nokia to drive new services, faster deployment times, and operational efficiencies

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release

    AT&T extends voice core relationship with Nokia to drive new services, faster deployment times, and operational efficiencies

    • Multi-year expansion deal will support AT&T in delivering on its vision of securely providing customer-focused networks and automation that drive new services, faster deployment times, and operational efficiencies.
    • Deal includes Nokia 5G IMS Voice Core and Nokia Digital Operations software.
    • AT&T will utilize Nokia’s voice core applications through the Nokia Cloud Platform to streamline network activities, enhance automation, and minimize manual intervention.

    4 February 2025

    Espoo, Finland – AT&T is extending its voice core relationship with Nokia in a multi-year expansion deal that will support the U.S. operator in delivering on its vision of securely providing customer-focused networks and automation that drive new services, faster deployment times, and operational efficiencies.

    AT&T is evolving its current Nokia IMS Voice Core to include Voice over New Radio (VoNR). The updated IMS Voice Core is a fully cloud-native architecture that enables flexible scaling and increased automation to improve AT&T’s time to market with new services and yield greater cost savings.

    Yigal Elbaz, Senior Vice President, Technology & Network Services at AT&T, said: “With focused execution and investment, AT&T continues to make excellent progress in realizing automation at all levels of its network and service operations. We are pleased to continue our relationship with Nokia to further optimize our network operations and enable new services that better support our customers’ evolving needs.”

    The U.S. operator will utilize Nokia’s voice core applications through the Nokia Cloud Platform (NCP) to streamline network activities, enhance automation, and minimize manual intervention. NCP reflects Nokia’s multi-cloud strategy of providing operators with the infrastructure of their choice.

    AT&T will also use Nokia Digital Operations software solutions, open and designed for multi-vendor networks, to deliver capabilities that automate the design, delivery, and assurance of customer services at scale.

    Raghav Sahgal, President of Cloud and Network Services at Nokia, said: “As a long-time collaborator with AT&T, Nokia fully understands the important journey AT&T is on to enhance automation, reduce complexity, decrease deployment times, and perform operational workflows faster to better serve its customers, and glean more value from its network. Through our network solutions, Nokia will boost AT&T’s network agility, efficiency, and service offerings.”

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs.

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    Media inquiries
    Nokia Press Office
    Email: Press.Services@nokia.com

    Follow us on social media
    LinkedIn X Instagram Facebook YouTube

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Jabra Launches the PanaCast 40 VBS, the First 180-Degree Android-Powered Video Bar Designed for Small Rooms

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Jabra extends its premium collaboration portfolio with PanaCast 40 VBS (Video Bar System), the only small room Android-bar that captures the entire room with 180-degree field of view
    • The PanaCast 40 VBS has advanced audio technology for exceptional voice clarity with quick and easy installation, ensuring a seamless setup experience
    • Future-proof investment with flexible deployment options on Microsoft Teams, Zoom, or permanent BYOD setups and managed seamlessly with Jabra+

    BARCELONA, Spain, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ISE — Today, Jabra, the world’s leading professional audio brand, announced the launch of the PanaCast 40 VBS, the only Android-powered video bar designed specifically for small meeting rooms that captures the entire room with 180-degree field-of-view (FoV). This latest innovation builds on the success of Jabra’s PanaCast 50 VBS, bringing the same powerful performance to smaller spaces in a more compact and cost-effective package.

    As more organizations transition back to the office and hybrid work environments become the norm, the demand for efficient small meeting space solutions continues to grow. These spaces often pose unique challenges for video collaboration, as traditional solutions struggle to capture all participants equally—particularly those seated closer to the screen—while some lack video conferencing equipment altogether. This imbalance can result in empty meeting rooms and gaps in communication, underscoring the need for solutions that provide clear, inclusive experiences for everyone, regardless of location.

    The PanaCast 40 VBS bridges this gap by delivering an all-in-one solution that transforms small meeting rooms into high-performing collaboration hubs. With its wide field of view, exceptional audio quality, and seamless usability, the PanaCast 40 VBS ensures every participant is seen and heard clearly, enabling organizations to fully utilize their small spaces and bring collaboration to new heights.

    Redefining collaboration for small spaces

    Globally, less than 3% of small meeting spaces, or huddle rooms, are video enabled*, leaving millions of these rooms underutilized and underserved. The PanaCast 40 VBS addresses this challenge with its innovative dual-camera systems, delivering a seamless 180-degree field of view through advanced stitching technology. This ensures full room coverage, making every participant clearly visible on video.

    The video capabilities are matched by the advanced audio performance, which stems from the GN group-wide unique sound processing capabilities. The sound is powered by a single high-quality speaker and six microphones with adaptive beamforming. Intelligent audio algorithms enhance sound clarity for exceptional voice pickup, so every word is heard clearly and accurately, fostering more natural and engaging virtual interactions and ensuring remote participants feel fully included.

    The PanaCast 40 VBS reimagines what’s possible for huddle rooms, transforming small spaces into comfortable collaboration areas and allowing facility managers to unlock the full potential of these underutilized spaces.

    Designed for ease of use and rapid deployment

    Designed with simplicity and ease of use at its core, the PanaCast 40 VBS offers a straightforward installation process—from unboxing to mounting to the first meeting. Its intuitive setup ensures that even first-time customers can get their systems up and running in seconds, making collaboration effortless.

    New packaging enhances the deployment experience further by allowing provisioning without the need to remove the product from the box. The design also features easy cable routing, reducing installation time. The PanaCast 40 VBS is ideal for quick and easy installations in small rooms, such as Express Install for Microsoft Teams Rooms.  

    It also ensures a consistent and seamless experience for small meeting spaces by sharing many of the same accessories as its medium room counterpart, the PanaCast 50 VBS. This enables simplified operations for administrators and flexibility across different room sizes, making the PanaCast 40 VBS a versatile and efficient solution for modern office needs.

    A future-proof investment

    The PanaCast 40 VBS is built to adapt to the evolving needs of modern workplaces, particularly for small Android environments. With its certified compatibility for Android environments, it offers flexibility with Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and BYOD deployment options.

    To enhance usability and longevity, the PanaCast 40 VBS includes optional accessories such as a touch controller and a detachable faceplate for easy cleaning. It can also be purchased as a bundle, with both the PanaCast 40 VBS and the touch controller included. Seamless integration with ecosystem partners ensures a future-proof investment, complemented by up-to-date manageability through Jabra+ software and the reassurance of Jabra Warranty+ services.

    Holger Reisinger, SVP Enterprise Video Business Unit at Jabra said: “The modern workplace is undergoing a transformation, with organizations reimagining how their spaces can drive productivity and collaboration. Small rooms, phone booths and huddle spaces are a cornerstone of this evolution, yet they’ve often been overlooked by traditional video solutions. With the PanaCast 40 VBS, we’re addressing this gap by delivering a flexible, intuitive, and future-proof Android solution that empowers teams to collaborate seamlessly, regardless of room size or platform preference.”

    Key features of the PanaCast 40 VBS include:

    • Full-room coverage – 180-degree field-of-view with dual cameras and 4x digital zoom
    • Superior audio – 1 speaker and 6 microphones, enhanced by intelligent audio algorithms for crystal-clear sound and voice pickup
    • Streamlined setup – New packaging enables provisioning without removing the product from the box
    • Consistent experience – Shared touch controller and stand with the PanaCast 50 VBS medium room solution for seamless integration across spaces
    • Effortless installation – Simplified cable routing and protection for easy, clean setup
    • Flexible deployment – Compatible with Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and BYOD setups
    • MDEP-based solution (Microsoft Device Ecosystem Platform) – Delivers strengthened security and enhanced meeting experiences
    • Intelligent Meeting Space – Enables users to personalize and set virtual meeting space boundaries – perfect for open-plan offices or glass-walled rooms
    • Always up to date – Managed via Jabra+, ensuring the latest features and functionality
    • Reliability – Backed by Jabra Warranty+ for added peace of mind
    • Modern design – Clean, professional aesthetic that fits seamlessly into contemporary workspaces
    • Practical features – Easy-clean cover and ADA compliance for enhanced usability

    Jabra PanaCast 40 VBS will be available from Mid-2025. MSRP: $1,499. For more information please visit https://www.jabra.com/panacast40vbs.

    *Frost and Sullivan, 2024

    Note to editors 

    Hayley Minardi
    Manager, PR & Communications, North America
    hminardi@jabra.com  

    About Jabra

    Jabra is a world leading brand in audio, video and collaboration solutions – engineered to empower businesses. Proudly part of GN Group, we are committed to bringing people closer to one another and to what is important to them. Jabra engineering excellence leads the way, building on over 150 years of pioneering work within GN. This allows us to create integrated tools for contact centers, offices, and collaboration to help professionals work more productively from anywhere. www.jabra.com

    Founded in 1869, GN Group employs more than 7,000 people and is listed on Nasdaq Copenhagen (GN.CO). GN’s solutions are sold in 100 countries across the world.  Visit our homepage GN.com or connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X. 

    © 2024 GN Group. All rights reserved. Jabra® is a registered trademark of GN Group. All other trademarks included herein are the property of their respective owners (design and specifications are subject to change without notice).

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fc30d00d-063a-40a9-ad5b-70d4406a3597

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c026aaa2-62ef-4c1c-9b32-bd137bad8bc4

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d94cff48-9b76-41f5-81d5-e2143affc28a

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/989c5fb5-678a-4287-b7f3-9f7266ce11c3

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Check Point Announces New AI-Powered Innovations to Bolster Unified Security Management for the Infinity Platform

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VIENNA, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ: CHKP), a pioneer and global leader of cyber security solutions, today announced new Infinity Platform capabilities to accelerate zero trust, strengthen threat prevention, reduce complexity, and simplify security operations.

    “We live in a hyperconnected, digital world with new cyber threats emerging every day,” said Nataly Kremer, Chief Product Officer at Check Point. “Meanwhile, security teams are struggling to adequately prevent cyber-attacks due to complex and siloed security solutions. We are pleased to introduce several new AI-powered Innovations that cut down complexity and strengthen the Unified Security Management capabilities of the Infinity Platform. Our customers will experience enhanced threat prevention, while finding it very easy to collaborate with third-party products.”

    Many organizations rely on a siloed security approach. IT teams are tasked with deploying security tools that are designed to provide a specific type of protection across the network, endpoints, email, and cloud environments. This siloed approach requires dozens of systems to manage, which leads to operational challenges, fragmented policies, and security gaps for IT teams. At the same time, cyber-attacks increased 44% year-over-year, placing extreme pressure on security teams.

    The siloed nature of hybrid environments demands that security teams review and reconcile policies and processes across dozens of systems and tools. These tasks are often performed manually, slowing down operations and leading to gaps in zero trust, threat resolution, and infrastructure management, resulting in a heightened risk of cyberattacks and system failures. Check Point’s six new and improved AI-powered innovations accelerate operations and supercharge threat prevention in three ways:

    Unified Identity & Policy

    By leveraging AI and identity awareness, administrators can implement more effective and granular security policies, ensuring that only authorized users have access to critical resources. Unifying visibility and analysis of policies across environments enables security teams to maintain security hygiene and compliance.

    • Quantum Policy Insights
      • Analyzes existing policies and recommends policy changes to improve security posture
      • Enforces zero trust by eliminating overly permissive access and conflicting policies
    • Quantum Policy Auditor
      • Ensures alignment with corporate security guidelines
      • Identifies policies that violate organizational guidelines using a policy visualization UI
      • Analyzes thousands of rules in seconds, saving security and audit teams weeks of tedious labor by synthesizing complex policies/rules into powerful business-level graphical insights
    • Infinity Identity
      • Cloud service that manages centralized identity across the Infinity Platform
      • Seamlessly integrates with third party identity providers
      • Adds support for new identity sources: Microsoft Defender, Microsoft Intune and Harmony Endpoint 

    Collaborative Threat Prevention

    AI can help organizations identify and block threats across multiple enforcement points in real-time, eliminating human error and reducing time to remediation.

    • Infinity Playblocks
      • Provides security automation and orchestration across Infinity Platform and 3rd parties
      • Extends the reach of siloed security solutions to stop attacks across the enterprise
      • 100+ out of the box playbooks including threat prevention, auto remediation, reporting, and more
      • Enables enterprises to easily create custom playbooks using natural language GenAI

    Operational Simplicity
    AI-based insights can minimize tedious, error prone work to streamline operations across the entire security stack. This results in improved zero trust, better lifecycle management, and less infrastructure downtime.

    • Infinity AIOps
      • AI agent proactively monitors gateways to predict and help mitigate failures in advance
      • Provides real-time monitoring of security infrastructure health, including CPU, memory utilization, and more
    • Infinity AI Copilot
      • Chat-based GenAI assistant knows an organization’s policies, access rules, objects, and logs, as well as all product documentation.
      • Provides contextualized and comprehensive answers to security admins, IT departments, and security operations teams, accelerating security administration and improving incident mitigation and response.
      • Powerful, time saving entry point for automation/collaboration across entire Infinity Platform

    Learn more about AI Security Management: https://www.checkpoint.com/ai-unified-security-management/

    Follow Check Point via:
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/check-point-software-technologies
    X (formerly Twitter): https://www.twitter.com/checkpointsw
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/checkpointsoftware
    Blog: https://blog.checkpoint.com
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CPGlobal

    About Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. 
    Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. (www.checkpoint.com) is a leading AI-powered, cloud-delivered cyber security platform provider protecting over 100,000 organizations worldwide. Check Point leverages the power of AI everywhere to enhance cyber security efficiency and accuracy through its Infinity Platform, with industry-leading catch rates enabling proactive threat anticipation and smarter, faster response times. The comprehensive platform includes cloud-delivered technologies consisting of Check Point Harmony to secure the workspace, Check Point CloudGuard to secure the cloud, Check Point Quantum to secure the network, and Check Point Infinity Platform Services for collaborative security operations and services.

    Legal Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements generally relate to future events or our future financial or operating performance. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements related to our expectations regarding future growth, the expansion of Check Point’s industry leadership, the enhancement of shareholder value and the delivery of an industry-leading cyber security platform to customers worldwide. Our expectations and beliefs regarding these matters may not materialize, and actual results or events in the future are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those projected. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are also subject to other risks and uncertainties, including those more fully described in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 2, 2024. The forward-looking statements in this press release are based on information available to Check Point as of the date hereof, and Check Point disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: For the Third Consecutive Year, Check Point Software Demonstrates Industry’s Highest Threat Prevention Rate in Miercom’s Enterprise and Hybrid Mesh Firewall Security Report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VIENNA, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ: CHKP), a pioneer and global leader of cyber security solutions, today revealed that the Infinity Platform has achieved an outstanding 99.9% block rate on Zero+1 day malware, a 99.7% phishing prevention rate, the highest security efficacy for Security Services Edge use cases, and an impressive 98% block rate on high and critical network intrusion exploits – as reflected in Miercom’s 2025 security benchmark report.

    “Yet again, in a comparison between the top five cyber security companies, Miercom recognizes the Check Point Infinity Platform for delivering the industry’s highest threat prevention rate,” said Eyal Manor, VP of Product Management at Check Point Software. “With cyber attacks growing 44% year-over-year, preventing and detecting threats is essential to protecting our digital way of life. These Miercom results validate our exceptional ability to not only accurately detect and block new malware and critical events, but also to provide the best cyber security product quality to customers, year after year.”

    This year, Miercom introduced an important firewall comparison to reflect the quality of cyber security products, by assessing their vulnerability to being hacked. Leveraging CISA’s Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) database, Miercom highlighted Check Point as having the best record – with one single KEV. The other top cyber security vendors had 11, 16, and 21 KEVs.

    With the advent of the hybrid mesh firewall platforms, Miercom’s 2025 security report has expanded to provide a holistic view of threat prevention across all three hybrid firewall use cases: On-premises, Cloud, and Firewall-as-a-Service (SSE/SASE). The Check Point Infinity Platform delivers a comprehensive hybrid mesh firewall solution with exceptional threat prevention.

    “We proudly award Check Point with the Miercom Certified Secure certification in recognition of their superior competitive performance and exceptional value for organizations of all sizes,” said Rob Smithers, CEO at Miercom. “Based on our latest head-to-head competitive test findings and observations, the Check Point Infinity Platform sets the standard in all of the security efficacy testing categories. In our benchmarks, the Infinity Platform offers the best protection against the latest generation of cyberattacks, including Zero+1 Day new malware. Check Point also enables enterprises to effectively prevent new malware from entering and spreading across their networks, servers, and endpoints, saving them time, money, stress, and resources.”

    The report includes the following highlights:

    • Zero+1 Day Malware Prevention vs Detection: Check Point led with the highest score preventing 99.9% of malware downloads. Other vendors ranged from 62.7% to 90.9%.
    • SSE/SASE Threat Prevention: Check Point led with a 99% block rate. Other vendors ranged from 74% to 96%.
    • Phishing Prevention: Check Point proved to have the best overall prevention against phishing URLs, making use of Quantum Firewall Software R82’s advanced AI deep learning capabilities. Other vendors ranged from 55.87% to 98.69%.

    To understand vendors’ threat prevention capabilities, Miercom ran benchmarks over the course of three months. Miercom continuously downloaded sets of 500 malicious files from VirusTotal, with samples consisting of Office docx, Office xlsx, pdf, exe, PowerShell, Bash script, APK, and dll and archived files. Miercom assessed each firewall solution using Anti-virus, IPS, Anti-bot, URLF, sandboxing, and all the AIML powered security engines. Testing was run concurrently on each vendor’s solution to determine how well each blocks modern attacks.

    Read the full report here: https://www.checkpoint.com/2025-miercom-firewall-report/

    Follow Check Point via:
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/check-point-software-technologies
    X( formerly Twitter): https://www.twitter.com/checkpointsw
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/checkpointsoftware
    Blog: https://blog.checkpoint.com
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CPGlobal

    About Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. 
    Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. (www.checkpoint.com) is a leading AI-powered, cloud-delivered cyber security platform provider protecting over 100,000 organizations worldwide. Check Point leverages the power of AI everywhere to enhance cyber security efficiency and accuracy through its Infinity Platform, with industry-leading catch rates enabling proactive threat anticipation and smarter, faster response times. The comprehensive platform includes cloud-delivered technologies consisting of Check Point Harmony to secure the workspace, Check Point CloudGuard to secure the cloud, Check Point Quantum to secure the network, and Check Point Infinity Platform Services for collaborative security operations and services.

    Legal Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements generally relate to future events or our future financial or operating performance. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements related to our expectations regarding future growth, the expansion of Check Point’s industry leadership, the enhancement of shareholder value and the delivery of an industry-leading cyber security platform to customers worldwide. Our expectations and beliefs regarding these matters may not materialize, and actual results or events in the future are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those projected. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are also subject to other risks and uncertainties, including those more fully described in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 2, 2024. The forward-looking statements in this press release are based on information available to Check Point as of the date hereof, and Check Point disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

    MEDIA CONTACT:                                    
    Liz Wu                                             
    Check Point Software Technologies
    press@us.checkpoint.com                   		 INVESTOR CONTACT:
    Kip E. Meintzer
    Check Point Software Technologies
    ir@us.checkpoint.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Outline of Panasonic Group Management Reform

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Outline of Panasonic Group Management Reform

    The content in this website is accurate at the time of publication but may be subject to change without notice.Please note therefore that these documents may not always contain the most up-to-date information.Please note that German, French and Chinese versions are machine translations, so the quality and accuracy may vary.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Panasonic Automotive Systems Announces Personnel Changes

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Panasonic Automotive Systems Announces Personnel Changes

    The content in this website is accurate at the time of publication but may be subject to change without notice.Please note therefore that these documents may not always contain the most up-to-date information.Please note that German, French and Chinese versions are machine translations, so the quality and accuracy may vary.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 01/30/2025 Blackburn, Risch, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Expand Prohibitions on Use of Foreign Assistance Funding for Abortions

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Rand Paul (R-Ky.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) today introduced the American Values Act, legislation to permanently enact and expand existing prohibitions on the use of U.S. foreign assistance to pay for the performance or promotion of abortion services overseas.

    “Human life across the world must be protected, and the use of taxpayer dollars to fund abortions abroad is contrary to American values,” said Senator Blackburn. “This bill would strengthen the existing restrictions on the use of foreign assistance for abortions, making it crystal clear such actions will not be tolerated.”

    “American foreign aid should always be used in a way that is in line with American values- and that means that no foreign assistance funds should ever be used to perform or promote abortion services,” said Senator Risch. “I’m proud to introduce the American Values Act with my colleagues to hold our government accountable to this standard and protect the sanctity of life across the globe.”

    “As President Donald J. Trump re-evaluates foreign aid, it’s absolutely essential that American taxpayer dollars are never used to fund abortions here or anywhere in the world,” said Senator Mullin. “Our nation was founded on the principles of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, and it’s our job to protect those values. I’m glad to join this important legislation to defend the sanctity of life.” 

    “No American taxpayer should be forced to fund abortions overseas,” said Dr. Paul. “It’s bad enough that Washington spends recklessly at home, but using taxpayer dollars to promote abortion abroad is an insult to both life and fiscal responsibility. This legislation is a necessary step towards reigning wasteful spending and standing for the fundamental right to life.”

    Senator Rick Scott said, “It’s extremely troubling that American tax dollars could be used to promote or perform abortion overseas. Our American Values Act ensures U.S. taxpayer dollars sent as foreign aid are helping families, not harming human life.” 

    “Americans made it clear this year with the election of President Trump that they have rejected the left’s radical, pro-abortion agenda. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this legislation to end the United States’ funding of abortions abroad and help our nation once again become a defender of life across the globe,” said Senator Daines.

    “As the right to life is the most fundamental human right of all, I strongly oppose sending U.S. taxpayer dollars overseas to promote or perform abortion,” said Senator Hagerty. “I’m pleased once again to support the American Values Act that seeks to close loopholes and uphold pro-life values in U.S. diplomacy and development by placing permanent restrictions on the use of U.S. foreign assistance to fund abortions and involuntary sterilizations.”

    AMERICAN VALUES ACT:

    If enacted, this legislation would:

    • Clarify that existing prohibitions on the use of U.S. foreign assistance to pay for the performance or promotion of abortions, forced sterilizations, or biomedical research relating to abortions or forced sterilizations shall apply to all assistance under the Foreign Assistance Act;
    • Permanently enact long-standing appropriations restrictions on the use of foreign assistance funds to lobby for or against abortion;
    • Permanently enact long-standing appropriations restrictions on the provision of foreign assistance funds to organizations that support or participate in the management of a program of coercive abortion or involuntary sterilization; and
    • Permanently enact long-standing appropriations restrictions on the use of funds made available to the Peace Corps to pay for abortions.

    MIL OSI USA News –