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  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Lebanon: Israeli attacks on financial institutions are possible war crimes

    Source: Amnesty International –

    There have been multiple attacks on branches of Qard al-Hassan, a non-profit financial association affiliated with Hezbollah 

    Under laws of war, financial institutions are civilian objects unless being used for military purposes

    ‘Israeli forces have targeted an institution that serves as an economic lifeline for countless Lebanese civilians’ – Erika Guevara Rosas

    The Israeli military’s targeting of branches of Qard al-Hassan, a non-profit financial association affiliated with Hezbollah with over 30 branches across Lebanon, is likely to be a violation of international humanitarian law and must be investigated as a possible war crime, Amnesty International said today. 

    Under the laws of war, branches of financial institutions are civilian objects unless they are being used for military purposes. These attacks are likely to constitute a direct attack on civilian objects. 

    On 20 October, the Israeli military’s Arabic spokesperson announced on X that its forces would begin “attacking infrastructure belonging to the Hezbollah’s Qard al-Hassan”, instructing residents to immediately move away from areas in the vicinity of these buildings. The first attack was reported only 35 minutes later at around 9:30 pm. 

    Lebanese state media has reported a total of 11 attacks on Qard al-Hassan buildings in the southern suburbs of Beirut, as well as several other branches in other parts of the country, including in the south and in the Bekaa Valley.

    Qard al-Hassan, operating under a licence granted by the Lebanese government, is currently Lebanon’s biggest microcredit provider and is used by many Lebanese civilians, predominantly Shiites, to access small, interest-free loans. Many Lebanese people from various religious communities have increasingly relied on Qard al-Hassan for loans to pay for education, healthcare and small businesses, particularly since the collapse of Lebanon’s banking sector in 2019. It has been under US sanctions since 2007. 

    Erika Guevara Rosas, Amnesty International’s Senior Director for Research, Advocacy, Policy and Campaigns, said:

    “Israeli forces have targeted an institution that serves as an economic lifeline for countless Lebanese civilians. 

    “This, along with an evacuation warning issued less than 40 minutes before the start of the strikes, shows Israel’s disregard for international humanitarian law.

    “Even if as the Israeli military alleges the institution does provide financing to Hezbollah it is not likely to meet the definition of a military objective, particularly for branches serving civilian customers.

    “Under international humanitarian law, attacks against civilians and civilian objects are prohibited. An international investigation into the attacks on Qard al-Hassan must be urgently initiated. 

    “Israel must abandon a definition of military objectives that is so broad as to include branches of a financial institution.”

    Civilian objects protected under international humanitarian law

    International humanitarian law prohibits direct attacks against “civilian objects” such as homes, businesses and shops unless these buildings are being used for military purposes. Having an association with Hezbollah is not sufficient to classify a civilian building or the civilians inside it as military objectives. Many of Qard al-Hassan’s branches and offices are located in residential buildings in the middle of densely-populated residential areas. Hundreds of residents had to flee their homes after the Israeli military issued evacuation warnings. A senior Israeli intelligence official was quoted in the media stating that in addition to hindering the ability of Hezbollah to function and rebuild following the war, “the main objective is to affect trust between Hezbollah and a lot of the Shiite community that uses this association as a banking system”. Undermining trust between Hezbollah and the Shiite community is not a lawful justification for militarily targeting an institution.

    MIL OSI NGO

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia Corporation – Managers’ transactions (Uitto)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nokia Corporation
    Managers’ transactions
    22 October 2024 at 14:00 EEST

    Nokia Corporation – Managers’ transactions (Uitto)

    Transaction notification under Article 19 of EU Market Abuse Regulation.
    ____________________________________________
    Person subject to the notification requirement
    Name: Uitto, Tommi
    Position: Other senior manager

    Issuer: Nokia Corporation
    LEI: 549300A0JPRWG1KI7U06
    Notification type: INITIAL NOTIFICATION
    Reference number: 81972/4/4
    ____________________________________________

    Transaction date: 2024-10-21
    Venue: NASDAQ HELSINKI LTD (XHEL)
    Instrument type: SHARE
    ISIN: FI0009000681
    Nature of the transaction: ACQUISITION

    Transaction details
    (1): Volume: 156 Unit price: 4.31633 EUR

    Aggregated transactions
    (1): Volume: 156 Volume weighted average price: 4.31633 EUR

    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.

    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.

    Inquiries:

    Nokia Communications
    Phone: +358 10 448 4900
    Email: press.services@nokia.com
    Maria Vaismaa, Global Head of External Communications

    Nokia
    Investor Relations
    Phone: +358 40 803 4080
    Email: investor.relations@nokia.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia Corporation – Managers’ transactions (Hammarén)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nokia Corporation
    Managers’ transactions
    22 October 2024 at 14:00 EEST

    Nokia Corporation – Managers’ transactions (Hammarén)

    Transaction notification under Article 19 of EU Market Abuse Regulation.
    ____________________________________________
    Person subject to the notification requirement
    Name: Hammarén, Patrik
    Position: Other senior manager

    Issuer: Nokia Corporation
    LEI: 549300A0JPRWG1KI7U06
    Notification type: INITIAL NOTIFICATION
    Reference number: 81967/5/4
    ____________________________________________

    Transaction date: 2024-10-21
    Venue: NASDAQ HELSINKI LTD (XHEL)
    Instrument type: SHARE
    ISIN: FI0009000681
    Nature of the transaction: ACQUISITION

    Transaction details
    (1): Volume: 156 Unit price: 4.31633 EUR

    Aggregated transactions
    (1): Volume: 156 Volume weighted average price: 4.31633 EUR

    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.

    Inquiries:

    Nokia Communications
    Phone: +358 10 448 4900
    Email: press.services@nokia.com
    Maria Vaismaa, Global Head of External Communications

    Nokia
    Investor Relations
    Phone: +358 40 803 4080
    Email: investor.relations@nokia.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Xtract One Secures Contract with Global Automotive Manufacturer to Enhance Security at Select North American Facilities

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Oct. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Xtract One Technologies (TSX: XTRA)(OTCQX: XTRAF)(FRA: 0PL) (“Xtract One” or the “Company”) today announced that its AI-based security solutions have been chosen by a leading global automotive manufacturer of cars, SUVs, and pickup trucks to secure five of its North American facilities. System deployment will start at their Tennessee and Ohio locations, with plans for future installation at more facilities.

    After a comprehensive evaluation of available solutions, Xtract One was selected for the Company’s precise weapons detection capabilities and flexible integration into daily business operations and the physical environment. Aiming to enhance security and operational efficiency, this deployment sets a new standard for safety and innovation in the automotive industry while furthering Xtract One’s leadership in threat detection and security solutions in the space.

    “We’re excited to be working with another major player, our fourth, in the automotive field and to be expanding our growing scope of innovative customers across different industries,” said Peter Evans, CEO of Xtract One. “By implementing our cutting-edge solutions, we aim to provide security measures to combat modern threats and provide a seamless experience for all guests and employees. This deployment will also enhance operational efficiency, further demonstrating how our solutions fit seamlessly into the manufacturing facility landscape.”

    Xtract One’s security solutions enhance entry experience and detect threats while preserving guests’ privacy and comfort. These systems deliver fast, reliable, and frictionless screening that unobtrusively scan patrons for weapons and other prohibited items as they walk through. This eliminates the need to empty pockets and optimizes the guest experience by reducing time spent in security lines. The Company’s Multi-Sensor Gateway portfolio was recently awarded the U.S. Department of Homeland Security DHS SAFETY Act Designation as a Qualified Anti-Terrorism Technology (QATT), highlighting the efficacy of Xtract One’s innovative security solutions in safeguarding public spaces against modern threats.

    To learn more, visit http://www.xtractone.com.

    About Xtract One
    Xtract One Technologies is a leading technology-driven provider of threat detection and security solutions leveraging AI to deliver seamless and secure experiences. The Company makes unobtrusive weapons and threat detection systems that enable facility operators to prioritize and deliver improved “Walk-right-In” experiences while providing unprecedented safety. Xtract One’s innovative portfolio of AI-powered Gateway solutions excels at allowing facilities to discreetly screen and identify weapons and other threats at points of entry and exit without disrupting the flow of traffics. With solutions built to serve the unique market needs for schools, hospitals, arenas, stadiums, manufacturing, distribution, and other customers, Xtract One is recognized as a market leader delivering the highest security in combination with the best individual experience. For more information, visit http://www.xtractone.com or connect on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.

    Forward Looking Statements
    This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements that are not historical facts, including without limitation, statements regarding future estimates, plans, programs, forecasts, projections, objectives, assumptions, expectations or beliefs of future performance, are “forward-looking statements”. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “estimates”, “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, events or developments to be materially different from any future results, events or developments expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risks detailed from time to time in the continuous disclosure filings made by the Company with securities regulations. These factors should be considered carefully, and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Although the Company has attempted to identify important risk factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other risk factors that cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in forward-looking statements. The Company has no obligation to update any forward-looking statement, even if new information becomes available as a result of future events, new information or for any other reason except as required by law.

    No securities exchange or commission has reviewed or accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    For further information, please contact:
    Xtract One Inquiries: info@xtractone.com, http://www.xtractone.com   
    Investor Relations: Chris Witty, Darrow Associates, cwitty@darrowir.com, 646-438-9385
    Media Contact: Kristen Aikey, JMG Public Relations, kristen@jmgpr.com, 212-206-1645

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Navatar’s Latest CRM Platform For M&A Helps Investment Banks Leverage Superior Proprietary Intelligence As M&A Deal Activity Increases

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK and LONDON, Oct. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The M&A advisory business relies on good intelligence. Bankers must connect a lot of disparate threads of information whether they are pitching, researching buyers, managing sponsors, executing mandates or simply prioritizing their agenda for the week. To do that, bankers must find a way to automatically capture and then connect all of this proprietary information, most of it gathered painstakingly from their network over time.

    The new Navatar platform is designed to capture and harness this intelligence for investment bankers. It uses AI to automatically capture information from all of the firm’s interactions and then consolidates intelligence for each company, person, lead, sponsor, pitch, mandate, sector or even a niche subsector.

    The ability to create a sector/subsector knowledge-base incorporating proprietary intelligence is becoming critical as sector-specific opportunities in technology, energy and life sciences drive deal activity, according to the latest EY M&A Activity Report.

    “Today’s market demands your A-game. Your A-game primarily relies on proprietary intelligence. This intelligence must be collated from all the information your team painstakingly acquires from your network. The new Navatar Platform will synthesize this intelligence to help step up your game,” said Alok Misra, CEO of Navatar.

    For more information on Navatar for M&A advisory, please visit:
    https://www.navatargroup.com/mergers-and-acquisitions-crm-software/

    ABOUT NAVATAR
    Navatar (@navatargroup), the CRM platform for alternative assets and investment banking firms, raises the bar to help dealmakers move beyond efficiency gains and focus on competitive differentiation. Navatar is used by hundreds of firms including private equity funds, M&A boutiques and bulge brackets, fund of funds, multi-asset credit, hedge funds, real estate funds, venture capital firms, corporate development groups, family offices, private placement and other financial services companies.

    Sales Team
    Navatar
    sales@navatargroup.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: CW Petroleum Corp (OTCQB: CWPE) Reduces Outstanding Shares by 81.66% Through Share Exchange Transaction

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Katy, Texas, Oct. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CW Petroleum Corp (OTCQB: CWPE) (the “Company”), a leading provider of Specialty Renewable and Hydrocarbon Motor Fuels, today announces to its investors and future investors it has reduced its Outstanding Shares of Common Stock from 122,445,898 to 22,445,898, an 81.66% reduction.

    Chief Executive Officer, Christopher Williams, has elected to exchange his 100,000,000 restricted shares of Common Stock for 1,000,000 shares of Series A Preferred Stock to reflect Mr. Williams’ previous ownership in 2022. The original share exchange occurred on June 14, 2022, and was effectuated due to a potential capital raise and up list to Nasdaq in 2023, which did not occur.

    6.14.2022 – Form 1-U
    2.10.2023 – Form 1-U

    Mr. Williams commented, “We are committed to growing the Company and providing shareholder value. This share exchange will help place the Company in a better share structure, allowing greater access to growth capital and greater market liquidity for its common stock in the open market. Company revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 were $6.27MM”.

    Additional accurate information about the Company can be found on the OTC Markets website at the following links and on the EDGAR filing website provided by the Securities and Exchange Commission:

    CWPE Overview
    CWPE Security Detail
    CWPE Financials
    CWPE News
    CWPE Disclosures

    SEC Filings

    For additional information, visit our website at cwpetroleumcorp.com, email: investor@cwpetroleumcorp.com, or call 281-817-8099

    About CW Petroleum Corp

    CW Petroleum Corp was incorporated in the State of Texas on April 29, 2005, and began operations in 2011. On April 14, 2018, CW Petroleum Corp was incorporated in the State of Wyoming. On April 15, 2018, the Texas corporation became a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company through a share exchange. CW Petroleum Corp (Wyoming) is a holding company and through our wholly-owned subsidiary, we supply and distribute biodiesel, biodiesel blends, ultra-low sulfur diesel, gasoline blends, renewable gasoline, and a proprietary EPA-approved reformulated no ethanol gasoline to distributors, convenience stores, and marinas.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements in this press release may contain “forward-looking statements” regarding future events and our future results. All statements other than statements of historical facts are statements that could be deemed to be forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts, and projections about the oil and gas markets, energy markets, and other markets in which we operate and the beliefs and assumptions of our management. Words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “targets,” “goals,” “projects,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” “estimates,” “endeavors,” “strives,” “may,” or variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned that these forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties, and assumptions that are difficult to predict, estimate, or verify. Therefore, actual results may differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include those factors described in the Company’s most recent annual report on Form 1-K, which may be amended or supplemented by subsequent semiannual reports on Form 1-SA or other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements are made only as of the date hereof, and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly release the result of any revisions to these forward-looking statements. For more information, please refer to the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

    No Offer or Solicitation

    This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or a solicitation of any vote or approval, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Video: President Cyril Ramaphosa delivers eulogy at the special funeral of Dr. Tito Mboweni

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

    President Cyril Ramaphosa delivers eulogy at the special funeral of Dr. Tito Mboweni

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

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI: Marex Group Plc to Announce Third Quarter 2024 Earnings on November 7, 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Oct. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Marex Group plc (NASDAQ: MRX) today announced that it will release its fiscal 2024 third quarter results before market open on Thursday, November 7, 2024. The earnings release and supplementary materials will be available through the “Investors” section of the Marex website at https://ir.marex.com/.

    A conference call to discuss the results will take place at 9am ET the same day. Analysts and investors who wish to participate in the live conference call can register using the link here: https://register.vevent.com/register/BI35bc4ad5c3ed48f8b2e48ab5dbfeb65e

    About Marex:

    Marex Group plc (NASDAQ: MRX) is a diversified global financial services platform providing essential liquidity, market access and infrastructure services to clients across energy, commodities and financial markets. Enabling access to 58 exchanges, the Group provides coverage across four core services: Clearing, Agency and Execution, Market Making and Hedging, and Investment Solutions. It has a leading franchise in many major metals, energy and agricultural products, serving over 4,000 active clients and executing around 129 million trades and clearing 856 million contracts in 2023. The Group provides access to the world’s major commodity markets, covering a broad range of clients that include some of the largest commodity producers, consumers and traders, banks, hedge funds, and asset managers. Headquartered in London with more than 35 offices worldwide, the Group has over 2,000 employees across Europe, Asia and the Americas. For more information visit http://www.marex.com.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Keiretsu Forum’s Last Call for the 2024 Investor Capital Expo

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The 12th Annual Investor Capital Expo, hosted by Keiretsu Forum Mid-Atlantic, South-East, and Texas, will take place on October 31, 2024, at Convene City View in Philadelphia. This signature event connects accredited investors, venture capitalists, and entrepreneurs for a day of networking, insights, and presentations from promising early-stage companies. Registration is still open, and this is the final opportunity to secure your spot.

    Event Highlights:

    Exclusive Presentations from Emerging Companies:

    Attendees will have the opportunity to see 10-12 presentations from early-stage companies that are making significant strides in their industries and actively seeking funding. Each presenting company has undergone the comprehensive Keiretsu Due Diligence process, ensuring they are well-prepared and investment-ready.

    Expert Panel on Early-Stage Investing:

    The Expo will feature a distinguished panel of legal and investment experts who will address essential issues impacting early-stage investors in 2024. Discussions will include regulatory changes, strategic investment approaches, and tax considerations that can affect portfolio decisions. Attendees will gain practical insights to navigate the evolving investment landscape and make informed decisions.

    Stephen M. Goodman Most Valued Company Award:

    A highlight of the event will be the presentation of the prestigious Stephen M. Goodman Most Valued Company Award, sponsored by Morgan, Lewis & Bockius. This award honors the legacy of Steve Goodman, a trailblazer who supported innovation and growth in emerging businesses across the Mid-Atlantic region. Accredited investors attending the Expo, both in-person and online, will vote to select this year’s winner from a select group of Series A-B Round companies.

    Vote Integrity Sponsored by Votegrity:

    Again this year, Votegrity will manage the tabulation of votes from our investors, ensuring a secure and accurate selection process for the Stephen M. Goodman Most Valued Company Award.

    Networking Opportunities:

    The Expo will bring together over 200 accredited investors, providing a unique chance to connect directly with entrepreneurs from diverse sectors, including technology, life sciences, and finance. Investors can expand their networks, share insights, and discover new opportunities in a collaborative environment.

    Don’t Miss Out – Register Today:

    With limited time remaining, interested participants are encouraged to register now to take advantage of this opportunity to engage with industry leaders and explore vetted investment opportunities.

    Register Here

    About Keiretsu Forum Mid-Atlantic, South-East and Texas

    Keiretsu Forum Mid-Atlantic, South-East, and Texas are part of a global network of angel investors dedicated to fostering collaboration, innovation, and funding opportunities for early-stage companies. Since its inception, the Investor Capital Expo has become a premier event for bringing together investors and entrepreneurs, facilitating essential connections, and supporting the growth of the startup ecosystem.

    Media Contact:

    Cindi Sutera
    CindiS@AMSCommunications.net
    610-613-2773

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Abaxx Announces C$2.795 million Strategic Financing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    /NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES/

    TORONTO, Oct. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Abaxx Technologies Inc. (CBOE CA:ABXX) (“Abaxx” or the “Company”), a financial software and market infrastructure company, majority shareholder of Abaxx Singapore Pte Ltd., the owner of Abaxx Commodity Exchange and Clearinghouse (individually, “Abaxx Exchange” and “Abaxx Clearing”), and producer of the SmarterMarkets™ Podcast, is pleased to announce that it anticipates entering into a binding agreement with a strategic investor, pursuant to which the investor has agreed to purchase 215,000 common shares (the “Shares”) of the Company at a price of CAD$13.00 per common share for aggregate gross proceeds of C$2,795,000 on a private placement basis (the “Financing”).

    The proceeds of the Financing are expected to be used for general corporate and working capital requirements, including to fund ongoing operations and/or working capital and minimum regulatory requirements for Abaxx Exchange and Abaxx Clearing. No finder’s fees or commissions were paid in connection with the Financing. The parties must enter into a binding subscription agreement to complete the Financing which is expected to close as soon as reasonably practicable and is subject to final acceptance of Cboe Canada.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States. The securities issuable under the Financing have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold to or for the account or benefit of persons in the “United States” or “U.S. persons” (as such terms are defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act) unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

    About Abaxx Technologies
    Abaxx is building Smarter Markets — markets empowered by better financial technology and market infrastructure to address our biggest challenges, including the energy transition. In addition to developing and deploying financial technologies that make communication, trade, and transactions easier and more secure, Abaxx is a majority-owner of Abaxx Exchange and Abaxx Clearing, subsidiaries recognized by the Monetary Authority of Singapore as “recognized market operator” and “approved clearinghouse”, respectively.

    Abaxx Exchange and Abaxx Clearing are a Singapore-based commodity futures exchange and clearinghouse, introducing centrally cleared, physically deliverable commodities futures and derivatives to provide better price discovery and risk management tools for the commodities critical to our transition to a lower-carbon economy.

    For more information please visit abaxx.tech, abaxx.exchange and smartermarkets.media.

    For more information about this press release, please contact:

    Steve Fray, CFO
    Tel: 647-490-1590

    Media and investor inquiries:

    Abaxx Technologies Inc.
    Investor Relations Team
    Tel: +1 647 490 1590
    E-mail: ir@abaxx.tech

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    This press release includes certain “forward-looking statements” which do not consist of historical facts. Forward-looking statements include estimates and statements that describe Abaxx’s future plans, objectives, or goals, including words to the effect that Abaxx expects a stated condition or result to occur. Forward-looking statements may be identified by such terms as “seeking”, “should”, “intend”, “predict”, “potential”, “believes”, “anticipates”, “expects”, “estimates”, “may”, “could”, “would”, “will”, “continue”, “plan” or the negative of these terms and similar expressions. Since forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and assumptions and address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Although these statements are based on information currently available to Abaxx, Abaxx does not provide any assurance that actual results will meet respective management expectations. Risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors involved with forward-looking information could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information.

    Forward-looking information related to Abaxx in this press release includes but is not limited to, Abaxx’s objectives, goals or future plans, the anticipated closing and timing of closing of the Financing, regulatory approvals in connection with the Financing and intended use of proceeds from the Financing. Such factors impacting forward-looking information include, among others: the ability to enter into a binding subscription agreement and completion of the Financing on the terms as announced or at all; risks relating to the global economic climate; dilution; Abaxx’s limited operating history; future capital needs and uncertainty of additional financing; the competitive nature of the industry; currency exchange risks; the need for Abaxx to manage its planned growth and expansion; the effects of product development and need for continued technology change; protection of proprietary rights; the effect of government regulation and compliance on Abaxx and the industry; the ability to list Abaxx’s securities on stock exchanges in a timely fashion or at all; network security risks; the ability of Abaxx to maintain properly working systems; reliance on key personnel; global economic and financial market deterioration impeding access to capital or increasing the cost of capital; and volatile securities markets impacting security pricing unrelated to operating performance. In addition, particular factors which could impact future results of the business of Abaxx include but are not limited to: operations in foreign jurisdictions, protection of intellectual property rights, contractual risk, third-party risk; clearinghouse risk, malicious actor risks, third-party software license risk, system failure risk, risk of technological change; dependence of technical infrastructure; and changes in the price of commodities, capital market conditions, restriction on labor and international travel and supply chains. Abaxx has also assumed that no significant events occur outside of Abaxx’s normal course of business.

    Abaxx cautions that the foregoing list of material factors is not exhaustive. In addition, although Abaxx has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, or intended. When relying on forward-looking statements and information to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Abaxx has assumed that the material factors referred to in the previous paragraphs will not cause such forward-looking statements and information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, the list of these factors is not exhaustive and is subject to change and there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this press release represents the expectations of Abaxx as of the date of this press release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Abaxx undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements and information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Accordingly, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements and information. Cboe Canada does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: UConn Ranked Among Top U.S. Universities for Patent Issuances

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    UConn has been named one of the top 100 universities for patent issuances by the National Academy of Inventors (NAI).

    UConn is number 72 on this list. In 2023, UConn inventions received 25 U.S. patents.

    “It’s a great feeling,” says Abhijit Banerjee, UConn associate vice president for innovation and entrepreneurship. “I think it’s a reflection of the University’s total research mission as well as the accomplishments our faculty and scientists are doing every day. Increasing in patents is just one reflection of that.”

    Published annually, this list highlights and celebrates U.S. universities that play a large role in advancing innovation and invention in the United States. NAI has published rankings since 2013, starting with the Top 100 Worldwide Universities list. Last year, they introduced the Top 100 U.S. Universities rankings.

    The National Academy of Inventors bases its list on data from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

    By filing patents, UConn helps researchers protect their work from infringement by others. Technology Commercialization Services (TCS) actively commercializes patents for licensing to third parties and to support the creation of startups.

    A vast majority, approximately 90%, of UConn’s provisional patents are filed in-house with two attorneys hired in 2021. A fraction of provisional patents may still require the support of external law firms with expertise in special topics.

    This strategy has vastly reduced the cost of filing patents and helped UConn develop a more targeted strategy about what to patent based on the market it would be entering and its commercialization potential. It has also supported filing quality patents and better coordination with external law firms.

    TCS periodically reviews the University’s patent portfolio to identify patents for continuation, commercialization, infringement, and portfolio development.

    The University’s patent portfolios help demonstrate areas of research expertise, such as climate and sustainability.

    TCS not only supports researchers in filing patents but defends those patents in court if they are infringed.

    “At UConn, Technology Commercialization Services is the guardian angel for protecting our patents,” Banerjee says. “We are the ones that preserve one of the University’s most valuable assets which is intellectual property.”

    UConn’s patenting strategy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting research and innovation that contributes to the public good, Banerjee says.

    “Patents are a testament to faculty’s contribution to the field,” Banerjee says. “And it demonstrates faculty’s inclination towards research commercialization, entrepreneurship, and, most importantly from the University’s standpoint, having these patents do public good in the future.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Month of Discovery: Undergraduate Researcher Krithika Santhanam

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Krithika Santhanam’s ’25 (CLAS) research activities started early on in her time at UConn.  

    During her freshman year, Santhanam reached out to Caroline Dealy, professor of orthodontics, about working in her lab.  

    Santhanam spent her first and sophomore years in Dealy’s lab, which researches treatments for osteoarthritis. 

    “Osteoarthritis is a condition where there’s a spontaneous degeneration of cartilage cells which impacts our joints,” Santhanam says.  

    There is currently no treatment for osteoarthrosis. That’s why Dealy’s lab is working on finding a way to get cartilage cells to spontaneously regenerate. Santhanam found that when certain BMP ligands, a type of molecule, were removed in mouse models, something caused cartilage cells in their knees to regenerate.  

    Santhanam had the opportunity to present her findings at the 16th International Conference on Limb Development, Regeneration, and Evolution and the New England Science Symposium at Harvard University.  

    “The amount of skills that I gained, the confidence that I gained through that opportunity as a freshman,” Santhanam says. “I was able to talk to professional scholars within the field, which was amazing.”  

    After identifying a new cell population within the cartilage of mice samples, Santhanam continued her work with Dealy through a SURF (Summer Undergraduate Research Find) Award. With the SURF Award, Santhanam dug deeper to determine what was causing the regeneration she had observed in the last step of her project.  

    “My project proposal was looking at what properties do these new cells have,” Santhanam says. “Because we have no idea what type of cartilage cells these are, what is allowing them to regenerate, what stage of chondrocyte maturation are they in?”  

    After a long process of trial and error, Santhanam found that the cells matched with a tag called RUNX2, which is related to bone cell differentiation. 

    Santhanam is now working with Fumilayo Showers, assistant professor of sociology and Africana studies, on a project looking at frontline and non-frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in terms of how health care had to change during the pandemic and what we can learn from the emergency. 

    Santhanam is also currently putting the finishing touches on a documentary project about disability advocacy in South India that she made through the BOLD Scholars program.  

    Santhanam’s individualized major in health policy and racial disparities has allowed her to take classes in a wide array of subjects including women’s, gender, and sexuality studies and human development and family sciences. In these classes, she learned about harmful patient-provider interactions where individuals with disabilities do not feel heard or lack access to healthcare facilities in the first place.  

    “This was interesting to me because I feel like when we talk about intersectionality between race, class, gender, and all these things, sometimes we don’t think about disability as one of those social determinants of health,” Santhanam says.  

    Santhanam went to her parents’ home of Chennai, India to interview people involved in disability advocacy there. 

    “The differences and cultural stigmas I see when I go back really is something that is not talked about enough,” Santhanam says. “I know individuals with disabilities in India, and I know how that care is different, and I really want people to know that, and I also want people to know the positive strides that have been made in the past 20 years.”  

    Santhanam interviewed doctors and people involved with advocacy groups, including Dr. Aishwarya Rao, pediatrician, disability rights activist, and the founder of Better World Shelter, a rehabilitation shelter for women with disabilities; Sharada Devi, an assistant professor at the University of Kerala’s Institute of English; and KVJ Sumitra Prasad, founder of SAI Center, which promotes the importance of adults with disabilities living independently through the DORAI Foundation.  

    Santhanam will screen her documentary at UConn Storrs in January. 

    Santhanam plans to attend medical school after graduation with the long-term goal of opening a clinic focused on women’s health.  

    During her sophomore year, Santhanam participated in the UConn Health Leaders program where she screened patients for social determinants of health. She quickly realized that in Connecticut there are massive disparities in people’s ability to access healthcare, like healthy food and transportation that support wellbeing.  

    “That experience really was eye-opening,” Santhanam says. “Doing that program really made me feel like this is my calling, and really sent me into wanting to see what internal medicine was like. In my opinion, I believe primary care is the first place and the most important place where you can make an impact on someone’s health outcomes.”  

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. construction costs rose slightly for solar and wind, dropped for natural gas in 2022

    Source: US Energy Information Administration

    In-brief analysis

    October 22, 2024


    The average U.S. construction costs for solar photovoltaic systems and wind turbines in 2022 were close to 2021 costs, while natural gas-fired electricity generators decreased 11%, according to our recently released data. Average construction costs for solar generators increased by 1.7% in 2022, and for wind turbines they increased by 1.6%.

    These three technologies—solar, wind, and natural gas—comprised 86% of the capacity added to the U.S. electric grid in 2022. Investment in new electric-generating capacity in 2022 decreased by 27% from 2021 to $36.9 billion dollars.

    Generator cost data are reported to EIA through the EIA-860, Annual Electric Generator Inventory. The costs discussed in this article reference our electric generator construction costs data, which organize the nominal construction cost values for generators installed in each reporting year. The recently released data examine trends from past years. Discussion of additional cost information and trends is available in our Short-Term Energy Outlook.

    Solar
    Average U.S. solar construction costs across all solar panel types increased 1.7% to $1,588 per kilowatt (kW) in 2022. The increase was primarily driven by a 13% increase in the construction cost for crystalline silicon tracking panels, which increased to $1,605/kW, the highest price since 2018.

    The average construction cost for crystalline silicon fixed-tilt panels decreased by 13%, but they remained the most expensive of the major solar technologies at $1,788/kW. The average cost for Cadmium telluride panels also decreased by about 6% to $1,529/kW in 2022.


    Most solar panels installed in the United States are crystalline silicon tracking panels. Unlike fixed-tilt systems, solar tracking systems automatically move to follow the sun as it moves across the sky, allowing more continuous sun exposure and, therefore, greater electricity production.

    Wind
    The average construction cost for U.S. onshore wind turbines increased 1.6% in 2022 to $1,451/kW. Higher costs were driven by increases in construction costs for wind farms greater than 100 megawatts (MW) in nameplate capacity. The cost for wind farms between 100 MW and 200 MW of capacity increased by 10% to $1,614/kW. Construction costs for the largest wind farms—those with more than 200 MW—also increased to average $1,402/kW in 2022, up 1.4%. Construction costs for wind farms with 1 MW to 100 MW of capacity continued to decrease, this time by an average of 7.3% to 1,806/kW in 2022.


    Natural gas
    The average construction cost for natural gas-fired generators fell 11% between 2021 and 2022. The decrease was driven primarily by decreases in the cost for combined-cycle facilities. The average construction cost for generators at combined-cycle facilities fell by 42% in 2022 to $722/kW.

    The costs for other natural gas technologies increased in 2022. The average construction cost for a combustion turbine almost doubled between 2021 and 2022 to $1,006/kW, and the cost for internal combustion engines fueled with natural gas increased by 27% to $1,677/kW.


    Principal contributor: Alex Mey

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Task Group on New Medical School holds first meeting today (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, and the Secretary for Education, Dr Choi Yuk-lin, cochaired the first meeting of the Task Group on New Medical School today (October 22) to discuss strategic directions and major parameters for the establishment of a third medical school in Hong Kong.

         At the meeting, members of the Task Group discussed the considerations for establishing a third medical school in Hong Kong, and concluded that the third medical school should adopt an innovative strategic positioning in pursuit of complementary development with the two existing medical schools. The Task Group recommended that the curriculum design of the new medical school should be accorded top priority in consideration, requiring the medical curriculum to meet the requirements as stipulated by the Medical Council of Hong Kong. Proper arrangements should also be made for medical students to undergo an adequate amount of clinical training, thus ensuring that the medical students are well equipped with both professional knowledge and clinical skills to safeguard the interest of patients. The new medical school should also set out a forward-looking long-term development plan for its campus and teaching facilities, as well as an interim arrangement for a campus and a teaching hospital if admission of students is essential before the long-term facilities are available, alongside strategies to ensure financial soundness.

         Professor Lo said, “The establishment of a third medical school is a significant project in the development of medical education in Hong Kong. Not only will it attract global talent and help nurture more outstanding doctors for further reinforcement of the city’s healthcare system in the sustainable provision of healthcare services with enhanced quality and quantity, but also serves to promote high-quality development in medical education and research, dovetailing with the city’s development as an international hub for medical training, research and innovation.”

         Dr Choi said, “The establishment of a new medical school will further elevate Hong Kong’s position as an international education hub. Taking this unique opportunity, the scope of local medical teaching and research will be expanded through an innovative curriculum design and diversified student recruitment arrangements, complementing our goals of nurturing future talent and promoting the development of the ‘Study in Hong Kong’ brand.”

         The first target of the Task Group is to extend an invitation of proposals within this year to local universities interested in setting up the new medical school. The Task Group will liaise with respective universities and assess the proposals, addressing issues on funding arrangements, course accreditation, sources of teaching staff and students, a teaching hospital and research etc. The Task Group will subsequently submit to the Chief Executive in Council recommendations on the establishment of the new medical school and related arrangements. Land will also be reserved in the Northern Metropolis Ngau Tam Mei for the construction of the new medical school campus and the associated integrated medical teaching and research hospital.

         The Chief Executive announced in the Policy Address last Wednesday (October 16) that the Government supports the plan, by local universities, to establish a third medical school. The Task Group on New Medical School was then established the next day (October 17) to take up the responsibilities of devising the direction and parameters for establishing the new medical school, exploring ways to nurture more local medical talent and enhance Hong Kong’s healthcare system, as well as promoting various measures for Hong Kong to become an international medical training, research and innovation hub. The Task Group comprises seasoned local, Mainland and overseas academics for medical teaching and university management, professionals, the Chairman of the Medical Council of Hong Kong, the President of the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine, as well as representatives from relevant government bureaux and departments.         

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sobyanin: Sports complex to be built in Rostokino district

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Plans have been approved for the construction of two social and public-business infrastructure facilities, which will create over 1,100 jobs. This was reported in on your telegram channel Sergei Sobyanin reported.

    “Plans for the construction of two facilities in the north-east and west of Moscow have been approved: a sports complex on Selskokhozyaistvennaya Street in the Rostokino district and a multifunctional business center on Vereiskaya Street in the Mozhaisky district. They will be built at the expense of investors program to stimulate the creation of employment opportunitiesAs a result, the city will receive over 1.1 thousand new jobs,” the Mayor of Moscow wrote.

    Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @mos_sobyanin

    The program to stimulate the creation of multi-apartment buildings was approved by the Moscow Government in 2019 (Resolution No. 1874-PP of December 31, 2019) to attract housing developers to actively build industrial, business, social, cultural and other important facilities for the city. Investors who simultaneously create jobs while constructing multi-apartment buildings receive a benefit on payments to change the type of permitted use of land for housing construction.

    The implementation of the program stimulates balanced integrated development of new districts, reduces the shortage of jobs in neighborhoods with established planning, and also reduces excessive pendulum migration.

    Over the four years of its implementation, the program to stimulate the creation of employment opportunities has covered almost all districts of the city. The Moscow government has concluded more than 130 agreements with investors, which provide for the construction of over six million square meters of commercial real estate – these are industrial enterprises, logistics complexes, office and retail facilities, as well as educational, cultural and sports institutions. In total, more than two trillion rubles will be attracted to the development of the city and the creation of employment opportunities. As a result, over 290 thousand jobs will appear in almost all sectors of the capital’s economy.

    Developers can apply for special status at Moscow investment portal.

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The city has provided over 10 hectares of land for the implementation of large-scale investment projects in the South-East Administrative District

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Since the beginning of the year, the city has transferred seven land plots in the southeast of the capital to investors and developers as part of the implementation of large-scale investment projects (MaIP). This was reported by Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Urban Development Policy and Construction Vladimir Efimov.

    “The city has allocated to investors for lease without bidding almost 10.7 hectares of land in the territory of the South-Eastern Administrative District for the construction of industrial, educational, commercial and other facilities as part of the implementation of large-scale investment projects. The contracts have been concluded for five years, during which the construction of real estate with a total area of almost 170 thousand square meters should be completed,” said Vladimir Efimov.

    A large-scale investment project is a special status. It can be obtained, for example, by production complexes, innovation centers, social institutions, transport, sports, business and other facilities. For their construction, land plots are leased without bidding.

    “Large-scale investment projects are one of the most popular measures to support industrial construction. Since 2022, in accordance with the order of Sergei Sobyanin, the city provides land plots at a preferential rental rate of one ruble per year. Thus, in May 2024, an investor was allocated more than 0.9 hectares for the construction of an industrial technology park with an area of over 13 thousand square meters in the Lyublino district,” said the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry

    Maxim Liksutov.

    The implementation of the MaIP allows for the creation of jobs for city residents and contributes to the development of the capital’s infrastructure.

    As the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of City Property added Maxim Gaman, almost 0.5 hectares of land has been allocated near the Tekstilshchiki metro station for the construction of a shopping and entertainment center (SEC). Its area will be up to 7.9 thousand square meters. It can accommodate offices, shops, a cinema, cafes, restaurants and other facilities. The new SEC will become another attractive place for residents of the area.

    Earlier Sergei Sobyanin told, that for the implementation of MAIP, about 220 hectares of land have been provided to investors since the beginning of the year. This is almost twice as much as for the same period in 2023.

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A competition for reconstruction projects of the theater “Grandfather Durov’s Corner” has been announced

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The Moscow Committee for Architecture announced contest for the reconstruction of the complex of buildings of the theater “Grandfather Durov’s Corner”. The building with a small stage and a museum, which is a cultural heritage site, will be restored, its historical appearance will be preserved. This was reported by the chief architect of the capital, first deputy chairman of the Committee for Architecture and Urban Development Sergey Kuznetsov.

    “Due to the fact that the main building is not only a cultural heritage site, but also an important landmark for Muscovites, it was decided to select the best architectural concept for the new theater facilities through an architectural competition. Currently, the theater does not meet modern requirements either technically or functionally. The competitors will have to develop a unique proposal, within the framework of which the existing complex of buildings will be modernized. We invite leading Moscow bureaus with experience in working with cultural heritage sites, reconstruction and restoration of varying complexity to participate,” Sergei Kuznetsov specified.

    The reconstruction project will affect building 2, buildings 1 and 2, building 4, buildings 1 and 2, and building 4, block 2 on Durov Street. One of the theater buildings is an architectural monument of regional significance. This is an old mansion built by the Austrian architect August Weber in 1894, where the theater founder Vladimir Durov lived and worked from 1908.

     

    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.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: The capital’s courtyards were improved taking into account the wishes of city residents

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The specialists of the city economy complex have improved about 1.7 thousand courtyards. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Housing and Public Utilities and Improvement Petr Biryukov.

    “This year, 1.7 thousand courtyards were put in order, the asphalt covering of pedestrian paths and driveways was renewed, and parking lots were arranged. An important final stage of improvement is landscaping; lawns and flower beds were laid out during the work,” said Pyotr Biryukov.

    All improvement projects were developed taking into account the suggestions and wishes of city residents. Thus, small architectural forms are changed or installed, and residents can take part in choosing their design.

    “If there is the necessary space, it is possible to install swings and gazebos. We repair children’s and sports grounds, replace their surfaces and equipment. Particular attention is paid to the modernization of the lighting system – we install lanterns and street lamps with energy-saving lamps,” added Petr Biryukov.

    At the request of residents and if the necessary conditions are available, a place for walking pets can be allocated in the courtyards.

    More than 24 thousand capital courtyards have already been put in order in accordance with the developed standard. It implies equipping them with the necessary infrastructure for recreation and sports, high-quality lighting, and landscaping of territories.

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The number of tourists from foreign countries has increased by 70 percent in Moscow

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    More than a million foreign tourists visited Moscow in the first half of 2024. The Russian capital is chosen for business trips, gastronomic discoveries, and vacations with family and friends. The city attracts travelers with its architectural heritage, culture, pedestrian streets and embankments, parks, numerous cafes and restaurants, and a diverse event program.

    “In six months, the tourist flow to Moscow from foreign countries has grown by 70 percent compared to the same period in 2023. The leaders in the number of guests were China, Turkey, India and the countries of the Asia-Pacific region,” she said.

    Natalia Sergunina, Deputy Mayor of Moscow.

    China ranks first in the number of tourists among non-CIS countries — about 190 thousand visits. This is 2.4 times more than in the first two quarters of last year. Turkey is in second place (35.2 thousand trips), and India is in third place (28.5 thousand trips).

    The number of travelers from the Asia-Pacific region and Latin America has doubled — 260.6 thousand and 17.2 thousand people, respectively. There have been more guests from Vietnam: from January to June of this year, Moscow was visited by 16.6 thousand people.

    In addition, Moscow is seeing an increase in business travelers, with 40 percent of them later returning to the capital for family vacations. The city is introducing business travel industry representatives to opportunities to organize large-scale events. For example, in April this year, the Shaping MICE Future conference was held, which brought together over 100 participants from India and Russia. In June, the first BRICS tourism forum was held. It was attended by delegations from Brazil, Egypt, India, Iran, China, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, and the Republic of South Africa.

    In addition, there is an online certification program called Moscow MICE Ambassadors. During the training courses, industry representatives from India can learn about the stages of planning and organizing events in the capital.

    In 2023, the foreign tourist flow to the Russian capital amounted to 2.3 million people. To strengthen international ties, the city participates in major specialized exhibitions, organizes business missions, as well as projects and events aimed at domestic and foreign audiences.

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Developers can apply for residency in Russia’s first video game and animation cluster

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Until November 30, Moscow animation studios and video game development companies will be able to apply for residency in Russia’s first video game and animation cluster. Agreements will be concluded after the second stage of selection in the first half of 2025. This was reported by the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the Moscow Department of Culture Alexey Fursin.

    “We are announcing the start of the first stage of accepting applications for residency in the first video game and animation cluster in Russia. The participant status will provide an opportunity to place a company office on the territory of the cluster and, using the provided equipment, create new video game and animation products of any complexity. Working in such conditions will help individual specialists and companies develop their projects and the Russian gaming industry,” noted Alexey Fursin.

    Earlier, more than 40 companies expressed their desire to become residents of the cluster. This status will make it possible to place an office of no more than 500 square meters on its territory, as well as use modern infrastructure and advanced equipment that allows creating video game and animation products of any complexity.

    You can submit an application on the website Creative Industries Agencies (CIA)At the beginning of 2025, the expert council will hold a second round of selection and determine the companies that will receive residency.

    Candidates must have the status of an individual entrepreneur or a legal entity registered in Moscow. In addition, they must have at least one completed video game or animation product in their professional portfolio, as well as another project in the development stage.

    The country’s first video game and animation cluster will be located in the Stratos business center on Nikola Tesla Street. The operator is the Agency for Creative Industries. The cluster will cover about 40,000 square meters. In addition to office space, coworking, and exhibition halls, Stratos will house technological infrastructure for creating video games and animation.

    With the help of a motion capture studio, it will be possible to create realistic characters: record the movements of actors or animals and transform them into high-quality digital images or animation.

    The recording studio will record background sounds, music and soundtracks for video games and animated films, as well as voice their characters.

    A cinema hall with high-resolution screens is provided for viewing and adjusting finished materials. They will provide the precise color rendering necessary for working on videos. A technically equipped lecture hall with a modular system is provided for holding lectures, training sessions and other events.

    The conference hall and exhibition area will host business and creative events, exhibitions and presentations. Companies will be able to demonstrate their developments to visitors. There are several meeting rooms in the cluster for business meetings.

    The residents of the cluster will be beginning and experienced Russian development companies and animation studios. The platform will cover all areas of the industry – from training to support for Moscow specialists in export activities. Residents will have access to professional high-tech equipment, as well as participate in international exhibitions, accelerators, lectures and master classes.

    The cluster is expected to become a center of attraction for talented developers from all over the country and open up new opportunities for the development of the creative industry. The support measures provided by the city will help to consolidate Moscow’s position among the leaders in the field of video game and animation creation.

    Since 2023, the Moscow Agency for Creative Industries has been actively supporting the video game industry. This year, the Moscow Agency for Creative Industries launched the Video Game Factory accelerator, whose participants refine their ideas and then present them to investors. The most successful of them are distributed on the largest gaming platforms in Russia and the world. The first stream has already ended with the creation of 20 unique projects, and there are two more streams ahead.

    Over 25 projects and cooperation with 70 countries: results of 2023 in the creative industries

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Technical center, laboratories and stadium: a large school was built in the Vnukovo area

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The construction of a comprehensive school has been completed in the Vnukovo district. The investor erected the building as part of a residential complex at 8a Letchika Gritsevtsa Street. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Urban Development Policy and Construction Vladimir Efimov.

    “In the Vnukovo district of TiNAO, construction of a school with an area of 19.5 thousand square meters has been completed. It is designed for a thousand students. The three-story building includes elementary and secondary school blocks, as well as a sports block. In the future, the school will be transferred to the city education system,” said Vladimir Efimov.

    The building has all the conditions for comfortable learning for young Muscovites. It is equipped with laboratory and research complexes, rooms for musical and artistic creativity, a medical block, psychologist’s and speech therapist’s offices, as well as a dining hall.

    “The building provides for zoning of the educational space with the placement of the elementary school block separately from the premises of the secondary school. The main entrance is located in such a way that the flows of junior and senior classes do not intersect. The interest of students in their studies will be supported by a multi-light multifunctional space on the second floor with a stage, an artistic, technical center, as well as sports halls and a media library,” added the Minister of the Government of Moscow, Head of the Department of Urban Development Policy of the City of Moscow

    Vladislav Ovchinsky.

    The school courtyard has been equipped with areas for ceremonial events and active games, a stadium, recreation areas and outdoor activities.

    The permit for the commissioning of the school was issued by the Moscow State Construction Supervision Authority. As the chairman of the agency noted Anton Slobodchikov, the school was built on a land plot of almost 2.2 hectares. The building has universal and specialized classrooms. The entire construction cycle was supervised by the committee’s inspectors. Since the start of the work, nine inspections have been conducted, and based on the results of the final inspection, a conclusion was drawn up on the compliance of the facility with the design documentation, after which the school was put into operation.

    All schools and kindergartens being built in TiNAO fully comply with the quality and equipment standards applicable to educational institutions in the capital. According to the head of the Department for the Development of New Territories of the City of Moscow Vladimir Zhidkin, designers are faced with the task of creating premises that are not only convenient for the educational process, but also adapted for scientific and creative activities, and the comprehensive development of students. The emphasis is on modern technical equipment, functionality, spaciousness, and safety. Since the beginning of 2024, more than 20 educational facilities have already been built and opened in TiNAO.

    Earlier Sergei Sobyanin reported, that since the beginning of 2024, 63 social facilities have been built in Moscow.

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    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Response to the commissioners’ report

    Source: City of Birmingham

    Published: Tuesday, 22nd October 2024

    The city council leader has responded to the report from the commissioners.

    Leader of Birmingham City Council Cllr John Cotton said:

    “We welcome the publication of this report from the commissioners and acknowledge that while progress is being made, there is much more to do in our ongoing efforts to ensure we become a financially sustainable, well-run council that delivers good services.

    “We continue to engage constructively with the new Government, and like councils across the country, are awaiting both this month’s budget settlement and a local government finance settlement later in the year which will set out a one-year emergency package of support for local councils.

    “The Government is also committed to a multi-year settlement following next year’s spending review which will give councils much needed clarity and allow us to plan for the future.

    “Nevertheless, we face another very difficult budget, and it remains clear that the pace of change must further increase, as further savings are identified, and we transform services. Our new Managing Director Joanne Roney is focussed on that challenge and there will be no let up as we work together to get the council back on track.”

    NOTES

    • We have appointed a permanent Managing Director in Joanne Roney CBE, who is already providing pace, grip, and authority in driving the necessary changes, working with the senior officer team and Commissioners.
    • The Improvement and Recovery Plan was agreed in April 2024 and has set the overarching direction and actions to address the issues identified in the intervention. The first part of the plan has been implemented and further stages are now underway, including the development of a refreshed Corporate Plan which will outline what the council will seek to achieve over the next three years.
    • A whole council operating model is being developed so that the council can deliver good services, even whilst operating under the financial pressures that are a reality for local government.
    • Shaping Birmingham’s Future Together has seen us set a new direction for the council to involve citizens and partners in a much greater way.
    • The council’s corporate services have been reviewed, with a commitment to a new workforce strategy that will help deliver the staffing we need to deliver quality services for our residents. This includes a refreshed HR function to enable the effective recruitment and management of staff and improve our culture and achieve best value.
    • Financial management improvements continue, with the move to make a permanent appointment to lead the finance directorate. Work continues at pace to identify the savings and cuts that are needed to deliver a balanced budget.
    • A much-needed reimplementation programme is now underway for Oracle.
    • Progress is being made against the equal pay liability, including a revised a job evaluation scheme and settlement of the outstanding litigation with a target of April 2025 for completion.
    • A plan is underway to improve the procurement operating model with a focus on strategic contract management in order to achieve best value.
    • Within the housing directorate, progress has been made in response to the Regulator of Social Housing’s letter, reconfiguring the HRA budget to focus on improving the quality of the existing housing stock.
    • Within children’s services, the council has completed the review of spend control on children’s social care, and progress is being made on greater join up of services for families to make our services more effective.
    • A transformation programme is now in place to improve the waste service – which is the most public facing area of the council which has not been performing at the level our residents expect. By transforming staffing and management arrangements, and procuring a new fleet, we will see improvements in this service in the months ahead.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: England v USA Women’s Rugby World Cup opener fantastic news for Sunderland

    Source: City of Sunderland

    That’s the verdict of Sunderland City Council Leader Councillor Michael Mordey on today’s announcement that England has drawn the USA in next summer’s Women’s Rugby World Cup opener.

    England’s Red Roses kick off the tournament’s opening match against the USA at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light on 22 August next year.

    Today’s release of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 match schedule sets the stage for six weekends of compelling competition in the biggest ever celebration of women’s rugby.

    Reacting to the news, Council Mordey, said: “It’s brilliant that England has drawn the USA at next summer’s opening match in Sunderland.

    “Sunderland has a very special relationship with the USA, from the ancestral links between Washington Old Hall and George Washington dating back from 1183 to the Friendship Agreement Sunderland signed with the US capital Washington DC in 2006 which has created so many opportunities over the years.

    “We’ve also seen significant investment and employment in Sunderland from American-owned companies over the years, such as Lear, Adient, UK Independent Medical Services, Apexon and Rayovac, to name just a few, creating valuable jobs for people across the city. While our young people have benefitted from a number of exchanges as a result of our unique Friendship Agreement – with Monkwearmouth Academy welcoming young people from School without Walls in Washington DC to the city and to City Hall just in the last couple of weeks.

    “So, it’s incredibly exciting to have England playing the USA in the opening match of the Women’s Rugby World Cup in our city. And I’m very much looking forward to welcoming the US team and their fans, swelling the numbers we’re already looking to welcome from across the world. It will also be a real thriller for sports fans from across the North East.

    “I think there’ll be a really electric atmosphere in our city that night and I would urge anyone who hasn’t already got their tickets to look out for the next ticket releases coming soon.

    “Hosting the opening game is a wonderful opportunity for our city and our region to shine on the international stage at a time when Sunderland city centre is going through a £2 billion transformation so it’s brilliant news all round.”

    The last few years have seen a massive surge of interest in women’s rugby and women’s sport in general both locally and nationally.

    And tournament organisers, World Rugby say the match schedule has been developed with team and fan experience at heart, with exciting matchups in each of the eight host locations, family friendly kick-off times, inexpensive match tickets and optimised team travel.

    With 95 per cent of the population in England within two hours of a match venue, fans will have an unprecedented opportunity to see rugby’s biggest stars in action, while host cities are getting ready to welcome international travelling fans with iconic and vibrant local experiences.

    With excitement building, fans will have the opportunity to apply for tickets for all matches from 11:00 (GMT) on Tuesday 5 November until 11:00 (GMT) on Tuesday 19 November. Ballots will be used for any price categories which are oversubscribed. Fans can register to be the first to hear about ticket news here.

    Prior to the two-week ticket application phase, Worldwide Partner Mastercard is offering its cardholders access to a 48-hour priority sale for all matches from 11:00 (GMT+1) today until 11:00 (GMT+1) on Thursday 24 October at tickets.rugbyworldcup.com. Only Mastercard payments will be accepted during this priority window.

    American companies in the city employ over 3,000 people and Sunderland is also home to a number of businesses with plants both here and in the US, including Nissan and AESC, as well as Lear, Adient and Vantec, which promises to bring the opening match into day to day life across our communities on both sides of the Atlantic.

    Sunderland’s friendship agreement with Washington DC also led to the creation of the popular Sunderland Shorts Film Festival which continues to go from strength to strength. The annual festival, which will celebrate its 10th birthday in 2025, proudly showcases the best short films from the UK and around the world including Australia and the United States of America, while championing homegrown talent from the region.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Enjoy an evening of Doric Banter and Beats at Aberdeen Art Gallery

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    A special event presenting a modern take on the North East region’s mother tongue of Doric takes place at Aberdeen Art Gallery on Friday (26 October). 

    Supported by the Doric Board, Banter and Beats will showcase some of the best up-and-coming local talent in an evening of spoken word and music. The event, which takes place in the Art Gallery’s Cowdray Hall, is offered on a ‘pay what you can’ basis. No booking required. 

    The programme is hosted by Aiberdeen Mannie (Duncan Dallas), a social media influencer from Aberdeen. His short and funny videos on day-to-day life as a ‘middle-aged mannie fae Aiberdeen’ have seen him amass over 16k followers on Instagram. He was nominated as Scots Media Person of the Year at the Scots Language Awards in 2022.  
     
    The evening’s line-up includes: 
     
    Jackill (Jack Hughes), an influential rapper, writer and producer from Aberdeen. He has been involved in the Scottish Hip-Hop scene for over ten years and released his debut album A Day With The Jackal to acclaim in 2019. Five years in the making, the album is driven by Jackill’s social commentary about the world around him. Alongside being a musician, he works in local communities delivering workshops to young people and adults experiencing barriers to the arts. 

     

    Aberdeenshire folksinger Iona Fyfe has become one of Scotland’s finest singers. In 2021, she became the first singer to win the coveted title of Musician of the Year at the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards. Iona is a fierce advocate for the official recognition of the Scots Language, leading a successful campaign to pressure Spotify into recognising Scots and add it to its list of languages. Honoured at the Scots Language Awards with the title of Speaker of the Year in 2021, Iona performs both folk and pop songs in the Scots language, remaining true to her rooting in tradition. 

     

    Spoken word artist and writer Jo Gilbert’s debut poetry collection, WTF is normal anyway?, was published by Seahorse Publications in August 2022. Jo’s work is influenced by a myriad of things – music, art, poetry, film, history, prose, photography, sound, landscape, class, and people – filtered through personal experience and innumerable factors that weave the direction our creative paths take. Jo was a recipient of a Micro-Commission Award from Aberdeen Art Gallery in 2020. 
     
    Banter and Beats – an Evening of Doric 
    Friday 25 October 
    Aberdeen Art Gallery – Cowdray Hall, 7:30pm-9pm (doors open 7pm) 
    Pay what you can to support our programme 
    Café open for refreshments.  

     
    View of Aberdeen exhibition is on display in Gallery 15 at Aberdeen Art Gallery (Mon-Sat 10am-5pm and Sun 11am-4pm, admission free), and is a constantly evolving exhibition which aims to reflect people’s views on Aberdeen as a city to live and work in.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: York taxi passengers to get safer, greener rides

    Source: City of York

    Published Tuesday, 22 October 2024

    New requirements for York taxis and private hire vehicles are set to make them among the safest in the UK.

    This will stem from a new policy which incorporates national guidance and will make them even safer, with fewer emissions and will offer greater choice, especially for disabled passengers.

    An extensive consultation carried out this summer has helped shape a new Taxi Licensing Policy for the city. Feedback was gathered over the course of 12 weeks, from taxi users and members of the trade, North Yorkshire Police, disabled residents and York Hospital.

    As a result, the new policy requires vehicles to meet the higher Euro 6 emission standards to help improve air quality across the city. To add confidence among passengers, especially more vulnerable people, the policy supports the supply of more wheelchair-accessible taxis and aims to increase awareness of and extend safeguarding standards among drivers and operators.

    To make them easier for passengers to identify, Hackney carriage taxis – which can be flagged down on the street – must be black, while private hire cars – which can only be pre-booked and not stopped in the street – can be any colour other than black. This change will be phased in over a number of years.

    Cllr Kate Ravilious, Executive Member for Transport at City of York Council, said:

    For many residents, taxis are a key form of transport and source of employment. It’s essential that they are properly and fairly regulated to ensure their safety and supply. Operators and drivers in York must be well-informed and highly qualified to deliver a great and safe service to their many, and often disabled or vulnerable, passengers.

    “The new standards we’re setting put us in line with national best practice guidance and raise the safety and cleanliness of the city’s taxis even higher, plus put greater emphasis on driving standards and road safety, to help protect all road users. I look forward to seeing the full and detailed report next month.”

    A report was presented to the Council’s Licensing and Regulatory Committee on 8 October, and you can read it here. A full and detailed report on these changes will be discussed at full Council on 21 November

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UU and Council look forward to wicked Derry Halloween programme

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    UU and Council look forward to wicked Derry Halloween programme

    22 October 2024

    Ulster University is joining forces with Derry City and Strabane District Council with support announced today for the Derry Halloween programme.

    As part of its wider community and regional engagement campaign launching in September, the university is currently exploring new ways of promoting the region and all it has to offer. Working in partnership with Council and other stakeholders, Ulster University is focused on enhancing the rich cultural offering of Derry and the wider North West, and building on its profile as an attractive place to study, work and visit.

    Derry Halloween over the years has developed into a major international showcase for the city, drawing tens of thousands of visitors each year. It’s just one of a number of Council led festivals supported this year by Ulster University, and it’s hoped the partnership will continue as part of the drive to create and develop exciting cultural experiences for all to enjoy.

    Council and the university already work closely as strategic partners on a range of significant projects, and this is just the latest collaboration to benefit both citizens and students at the Derry~Londonderry Campus.

    Looking ahead to Halloween, Festival and Events Manager with Council, Jacqueline Whoriskey, said: “Council already has a strong collaborative partnership with Ulster University in terms of our work on the City Deal projects and our shared ambitions for the growth and development of the university and the economic and social benefits that will bring. 

    “Derry Halloween is the perfect example of what can be achieved in terms of delivering international scale events, and the great potential to develop further experiences to benefit the local economy, if we have the right support. Partnership working is key to realising that potential, so I really welcome the ongoing support from Ulster University, and our other cultural partners.”

    Ulster University plays a key role in the rich culture of Derry and is a hub for the thriving creative and technology industries and a nucleus for drama, music and cinematic arts. Through the organising and hosting of local, national and international events and conferences the Derry~Londonderry campus brings visitors, students and staff to the North West creating a halo effect for local tourism.  

    Professor Malachy O’Neill, Director of Regional Engagement, Ulster University, said: “At Ulster University, our mission is to be a driving force for positive change in the North West region. We are connected to the community, fostering a rich cultural landscape, and creating lasting impact. Our partnerships with local stakeholders such as Derry City & Strabane District Council are pivotal in transforming the city in a vibrant hub of culture and innovation. We are proud to support the flagship events that regionally define the city as a festival destination and following the huge success of City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival and Foyle Maritime Festival we look forward to a spell-binding programme of events at Halloween.”

    Derry Halloween is delivered by Derry City and Strabane District Council and funded by Tourism Northern Ireland and The Executive Office, with support from Ulster University and Air Coach.

    Follow all the latest news at derryhalloween.com or keep up to date with the Derry Halloween Facebook page.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Jimmy Doherty is named Visiting Professor at ARU

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    Published: 22 October 2024 at 13:16

    The farmer and conservationist will help support the next generation of scientists

    Farmer, conservationist and TV presenter Jimmy Doherty has taken on an important new role as Visiting Professor at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU).

    The announcement was made today [22 October] on the first day of the Chelmsford Science Festival, organised by ARU, which runs until Tuesday, 29 October.

    Jimmy is the much-loved presenter of programmes including Jimmy’s Farm, Jimmy and the Wild Honey Hunters, Jimmy Doherty in Darwin’s Garden, Jimmy’s Global Harvest, Museum of Life, Jimmy and the Whale Whisperer, Jimmy’s Big Bee Rescue and most recently Jimmy and Shivi’s Farmhouse Breakfast. Alongside his wife, he runs the popular Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park near Ipswich, which he has farmed since 2002.

    Jimmy studied animal biology and entomology at university, and part of his role within ARU’s new Writtle School of Agriculture, Animal and Environmental Sciences will see him help to inspire the next generation of farmers and scientists.

    In conjunction with Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park, ARU will run joint education and research projects, which includes plans for a new PhD studentship in conservation.

    ARU is home to approximately 40,000 students across a range of courses and campuses. After ARU merged with Writtle University College in February of this year, the 370-acre campus on the outskirts of Chelmsford became ARU Writtle.

    With an impressive reputation for animal, agriculture and horticulture courses, ARU Writtle features a campus farm that’s home to sheep, pigs and cattle, an Equine Training and Development Centre featuring stables and riding arenas, and a state-of-the-art Canine Centre including hydrotherapy clinics. In total, there are around 200 different species at ARU Writtle, including reptiles, birds and small mammals.

    Jimmy said:

    “I’ve had the incredible honour of being Chancellor of Writtle University College, and I’m thrilled that my connection with Writtle is continuing following the merger with Anglia Ruskin University. 

    “To be involved with Anglia Ruskin University is a real privilege. There are so many strong connections between the work that I do and the fantastic research and teaching taking place at ARU Writtle, so I can’t wait to get started in my new role of Visiting Professor, helping to inspire the next generation of scientists, farmers and conservationists.

    “Science is obviously really important in young people’s education, but it’s vital to this region’s economy, bringing in billions of pounds in sectors like medicine, veterinary medicine, agriculture. And also looking into the future of dealing with this climate crisis, it’s going to be the scientists that come up with the solutions.

    “It’s also exciting to be taking up this role at ARU at the start of the Chelmsford Science Festival, as the theme of this year’s festival – planetary health – aligns so closely to my own values of protecting the environment to allow everything to thrive.”

    Professor Laurie Butler, Pro Vice Chancellor and Dean of the Faculty of Science & Engineering at ARU, said:

    “We are immensely proud to be welcoming Jimmy Doherty to his new role within the university. 

    “Science and innovation have inspired Jimmy throughout his career journey, and we know that his knowledge, expertise and personal experiences will help to support and influence students across disciplines including the life sciences, animal behaviour, agriculture and conservation.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Europe: The Agreement between China and the Holy See has been renewed for four years. This is good news

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Tuesday, 22 October 2024

    by Gianni ValenteRome (Agenzia Fides) – The Holy See and the People’s Republic of China have announced today the decision to extend the validity of the Provisional Agreement on the appointment of bishops in China for four years, signed for the first time on 22 September 2018 and already renewed in October 2020 and October 2022.In its formal brevity, the statement on the extension of the Agreement released by the Vatican Press Office contains details that are useful to understand the phase that the dialogue between the Holy See and the People’s Republic of China has gone through, and the very horizon in which it is moving.The validity of the Holy See -China Agreement is extended not for the usual two years, but for “further four years”, “given the consensus reached for a fruitful application of the Provisional Agreement”. This shows that the dialogue between the Holy See and the Chinese authorities – after a slow start and a “running-in” phase – continues as a gradual process, which step by step sees its horizons widen and new opportunities emerge to verify the growth of sincerity, loyalty and mutual trust in the relations between the two parties.The path of dialogue, through the instrument of the Agreement, has contributed to favouring concrete changes that affect the life of the Chinese communities. It is always worth remembering that today all the Catholic bishops of the People’s Republic of China are in full and public hierarchical communion with the Bishop of Rome. At the same time, illegitimate episcopal ordinations, that is, those celebrated without papal consent, no longer take place in China: events that for decades, from the end of the 1950s until 2011, had wounded ecclesial communion and opened up rifts among Chinese Catholics. In the past six years, amidst impasses and difficulties (including those related to the time of the pandemic), nine new Catholic episcopal ordinations have been celebrated in mainland China, while eight so-called “unofficial” bishops, consecrated in the past outside the procedures imposed by the Chinese apparatus, have been publicly recognized in their episcopal function even by the political authorities in Beijing at their request (one of them, the elderly Peter Lin Jiashan, bishop of Fuzhou, who died later in April 2023).In parallel with the conclusion of the Agreement and its implementation, dialogue between the parties on the life of the Chinese Church in general is systematically continuing. In recent years, for example, efforts have been made to initiate processes of reconciliation within ecclesial communities that have been divided for decades, with a view to greater normality in the life of Catholics. Certainly, having a pastor recognized by both parties helps greatly in this path of reconciliation. Even though the situation remains complicated, elsewhere this process is helping to restore stability after many years of uncertainty and division.Two bishops from the People’s Republic of China are also present at the General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops taking place this year in the Vatican: Vincent Zhan Silu (Bishop of Funing/Mindong) and Joseph Yang Yongqiang, Bishop of Hangzhou. “The Church in China is the same as the Catholic Church in other countries of the world: we belong to the same faith, we share the same baptism and we are all faithful to the one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church,” declared Bishop Joseph Yang Yongqiang in his address in the Synod Hall. The bishops of the People’s Republic of China had participated in the synodal assemblies only in 2018 and then in 2023. “We have experienced a miracle. “We are here to give thanks, we have waited so many years for this moment and it has finally arrived,” said Bishop Joseph Guo Jincai in October 2018, on the occasion of his participation in the Synod on Youth. Previously, no bishop from mainland China had been able to participate in the Second Vatican Council or in the subsequent General Assemblies of the Synod of Bishops.In recent seasons, moments of greater tension and difficulty have been overcome, and others have given signs of renewed cooperation. On May 21, for example, several Chinese ecclesiastics and academics participated, together with Cardinals Pietro Parolin and Luis Antonio Tagle, in the Congress on the centenary of the first Concilium Sinense (1924/2024), organized in Rome by the Pontifical Urbaniana University in collaboration with the Dicastery for Evangelization and Fides Agency.In the statement released today, the Holy See reiterates its intention to “continue the respectful and constructive dialogue” with the authorities in Beijing “in view of the further development of bilateral relations for the benefit of the Catholic Church in China and the Chinese people as a whole.” With simple and clear words, it once again recalls the main concern that drives and guides the choices of the Apostolic See in the dialogue with the Chinese Authorities. The main intention that guides the Holy See in its dialogue with the People’s Republic of China is not the desire to reaffirm “political primacy” over an ecclesial community that for decades has guarded the gift of faith, crossing impenetrable paths and times of trial, even bloody ones. The criterion, also in relations with civil authorities, is to make the appropriate decisions so that the journey of the ecclesial community in history continues to proceed in the wake of the Catholic tradition, facing the difficulties and real points of suffering.The ordinary chronicles of the ecclesial life of the Chinese Catholic communities, recounted and described also by Fides Agency, attest that, moving necessarily within the political and legislative framework of their country, the Catholic communities succeed in putting into practice the breadth of their mission, in its essential aspects: liturgy, prayer, administration of the sacraments, catechesis and proclamation and participation in the Gospel, works of charity and formation initiatives for young people and adults. Adapting to the context, the Church always finds ways to live and bear witness to her faith in China.The works and gestures of salvation and healing can find forms of legitimation also in the political and social context of the current People’s Republic of China. In this determined commitment, hope rests simply on the harmony, on the “genetic” affinity between the work of the Apostolic See and the sensus fidei of the People of God in China. “The journey of the Church throughout history has passed and continues to pass through unforeseen paths, even through times of patience and trial. The Lord, in China, has maintained the faith of the People of God along the way” (Pope Francis, Video message to the Conference on the Concilium Sinense. Rome, Pontifical Urbaniana University, May 21, 2024).(Agenzia Fides, 22/10/2024)
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  • MIL-OSI Europe: EUROPE/ROMANIA – New Secretary General of the Pontifical Society of Missionary Childhood visits Romania and Moldova

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Bucharest (Agenzia Fides) – About twenty children between 5 and 15 years old from Chisinau (Moldova) were admitted as members of the Pontifical Society of Missionary Childhood on Saturday 19 October, on the eve of World Mission Day. Accompanied by their parents and the priests of their home parishes, the Moldovan children committed themselves to “making Jesus known to other children of the world through prayer, works of charity and personal witness, following the invitation of Bishop Charles de Forbin and the example of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, patron saint of the missions”. The event was also attended by the National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in Romania and Moldova, Fr. Eugen Blaj, and Sister Inês Paulo Albino, the new Secretary General of the Pontifical Society of Missionary Childhood. Sister Inês has been in charge of the International Secretariat of the Pontifical Mission Societies for two months and visited Romania and the Republic of Moldova from October 16 to 22. “This is my first visit abroad and the contact with the Missionary Childhood in Romania and Moldova was a beautiful experience. In Romania I saw a young Church that is growing, that is alive. The Church in Moldova needs accompaniment and support,” Sister Inês told Fides at the end of her visit to the two countries. Upon her arrival in Bucharest on Wednesday, the Secretary General of the Pontifical Missionary Childhood met the Apostolic Nuncio in Romania, Msgr. Giampiero Gloder, and in the evening prayed the Rosary at the Romanian office of the Pontifical Mission Societies with Romanian children connected from different parts of Romania via the digital platform ZOOM. On Thursday, on the way to Moldova, she met children of the Childhood Mission Society from three Romanian parishes in the diocese of Iasi, namely Cleja, Gheraesti and Butea. In Chisinau, Sister Inês, together with Father Blaj and Matilda Andrici, who is responsible for the Childhood Mission Society in Romania, together with a group of young Romanian missionaries, met the priests and religious of the Catholic Church in Moldova on Friday 18 October, accompanied by Bishop Anton Cosa. After a presentation of the four Pontifical Mission Societies by Matilde Andrici, everyone prayed the missionary rosary together. The next day, a group of children from the Childhood Mission Society joined them and, together with their parents, took part in a training session on the activities of the Pontifical Society of Missionary Childhood. On World Mission Sunday, the children and their parents, Sister Inês and the Romanian delegation of the Pontifical Mission Societies attended the Mass in the Holy Spirit Cathedral in Chisinau, presided over by Bishop Anton Cosa, who also presides over the Pontifical Society of Missionary Childhood. Back in Bucharest, Sister Inês met with children from the Romanian capital on Monday evening, with whom she attended the Mass celebrated by Father Eugen Blaj in the Chapel of the Pontifical Mission Societies, dedicated to Blessed Pauline Jaricot. At the end of the Mass, one of the children present spoke of his missionary experience: “I have been a member of the Pontifical Society of Missionary Childhood for three years,” said Paul, 13 years old, “and I have participated in various training camps and pilgrimages. I feel that Pauline and Bishop Charles de Forbin guide me in life.”“The visit of Sister Inês was a privilege for us and a great encouragement for the children of the Pontifical Childhood Society in Romania and especially in Moldova, where Catholics feel more like recipients than actors of missionary activity. The children saw that there is a worldwide network, that they are not isolated and that there are groups of the Pontifical Mission Societies all over the world,” said Fr. Eugen Blaj at the end of the Secretary General’s visit. (C.G.) (Agenzia Fides, 22/10/2024)
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  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/CAMEROON – President Biya returns home after 7 weeks of absence, putting an end to speculation about his health

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Tuesday, 22 October 2024

    Yaoundé (Agenzia Fides) – The rumors about the health of the Cameroonian President, 91-year-old Paul Biya, seem to have been denied yesterday, October 21, when the Head of State returned to his country after a seven-week stay in Geneva. Thousands of supporters welcomed him at the airport and along the road to the presidential palace. Although Biya made no statements, state television showed images of his arrival at the airport as he greeted the dignitaries who had come to receive him at the foot of the gangway, with his wife Chantal by his side. Cheering people dressed in clothes bearing the President’s portrait greeted the Head of State upon his arrival at the airport with songs accompanied by drums. Biya had not appeared in public since the beginning of September, fueling rumors about his health, so much so that the government had banned the dissemination of news about it. The Collective of Former Students of the Catholic Seminaries of Cameroon (CASEMCA) invited people to an interreligious prayer for the President’s health (see Fides, 16/10/2024). (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 22/10/2024)
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