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Category: Africa

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Global and African Financial Experts Urge Action to Enhance Smallholder Farmer Financing

    Source: African Development Bank Group

    Leading global and African financial experts have issued a resounding call to align financial structures with the needs of smallholder farmers.

    Speaking at a two-day conference on financing Africa’s smallholder farmers in Nairobi, Kenya, the experts underscored the crucial role of government intervention in creating an enabling environment for financial institutions to expand agricultural lending.

    The conference represents a pivotal step in mobilizing the billions needed annually to support Africa’s smallholder farmers, who make up some 80% of the continent’s farming population but control less than 5% of agricultural land.

    African Development Bank Group President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina delivered the keynote address, highlighting a glaring disconnect: while agriculture contributes 30% to Africa’s GDP, it accounts for only 6% of commercial bank lending.

    “Smallholder farmers around the world are the same, except those from Africa face difficult odds — poor access to markets, finance, information, infrastructure, and inputs—none of which we can’t address collectively,” Adesina said.

    A key highlight of Tuesday’s session was a panel discussion featuring Alice Albright, former CEO of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC); Brian Milder, Founder and CEO of Aceli Africa; and Jules Ngankam, Group CEO of the African Guarantee Fund. Moderated by former international broadcaster Yvonne Ndege, the panel explored practical designs for sustainable financing mechanisms to bridge the financing gap in agriculture.

    Panelists identified several critical barriers to adequate financing. These include risk misperceptions in agricultural lending, high transaction costs for rural financial services, mismatches between standard loan products and agricultural business cycles, lack of formal financial records and collateral, and inequitable value chain structures that limit farmer profitability.

    Milder shared a success story from Tanzania, where targeted interventions enabled Tanzania Commercial Bank to increase its agricultural lending share from 2% to much higher levels while simultaneously quadrupling rural bank deposits.

    He also highlighted the stark contrast between the 14% yield on Kenyan government bonds and the mere 3% average return on agricultural SME lending, illustrating the urgent need for solutions that make agricultural finance more attractive to investors.

    “Capital is like water—it runs downhill,” Milder noted. “We need solutions that consider the full profitability equation, including transaction costs, risk, and capital costs for financial intermediaries.”

    Albright drew on her experience developing the International Finance Facility for Immunization, which has raised $9.7 billion, to emphasize the need to clearly define financing challenges, assess risks, and build political will among governments.

    “We must articulate the public policy rationale for financing smallholder farmers and address key design challenges, including risk management and cost efficiency,” Albright stated. “With political will, innovative financial instruments, and strategic partnerships, we can establish a robust financing ecosystem that ensures capital flows where it is needed most.”

    Ngankam provided insights into how risk mitigation strategies could unlock financing for smallholder farmers. He emphasized the necessity of financial products tailored to different agricultural value chains.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: WuBlockchain Talks with BitMart Founder Sheldon: From Bitcoin in College to 7 Years of Entrepreneurship and U.S. Regulations

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Mahe, Seychelles, March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Celebrating BitMart’s 7th anniversary, Wu Blockchain—one of the cryptocurrency industry’s leading media platforms—conducted an exclusive interview with BitMart founder Sheldon. The interview provides an in-depth retrospective on Sheldon’s journey from discovering Bitcoin as a college student to founding and scaling BitMart into a global digital asset exchange. It also explores the exchange’s evolution over the past seven years, key industry trends, and insights into the regulatory landscape shaping the future of crypto trading.

    The full interview is presented below.

    Sheldon, founder of BitMart, first encountered Bitcoin as a college sophomore in 2013 after reading about an ASIC mining breakthrough. That summer, he attended a Bitcoin conference in Hangzhou, meeting industry figures like CZ, Star Xu, Mo Buyi, and James Gong.

    After earning his master’s degree in 2017, he founded BitMart, which later secured investment from Fenbushi Capital in 2020. In 2024, BitMart launched its in-house derivatives system. With a CCO in place from day one, the exchange has maintained a relatively light regulatory burden.

    BitMart’s user retention hinges on data asset appreciation and interactive services. While Bitcoin’s downside risk appears limited, the broader crypto market remains sluggish. If political leadership shifts in four years, stricter regulations could follow.

    Encountering Bitcoin in Sophomore Year: Thought It Was Really Cool

    Colin: Sheldon, this year marks the 7th anniversary of BitMart. Congratulations on your continued growth and overcoming numerous challenges along the way. Could you start by briefly introducing your background, including your educational experience and your story before entering the crypto space?

    Sheldon: Recently, our platform celebrated its 7th anniversary. The company has actually been established for over 7 years, with about 9 months spent in preparation before our official launch on March 15, 2018, coinciding with the date of 3.15.

    Let me briefly introduce my past experiences. I studied computer science at Hangzhou Dianzi University. This background allowed me to come into contact with blockchain early on, given the close relationship between computer science and blockchain. I first encountered Bitcoin in early 2013 while I was a sophomore, filled with interest in new technologies and eager to explore cutting-edge innovations.

    At that time, I was still using Renren, a social media platform, where I operated my own small site on a platform called “Renren Xiaozhan,” writing code and collecting interesting news in the tech field to share. One day, I came across a news article about Brooklyn, New York, mentioning two young people who improved ASIC mining algorithms, increasing Bitcoin mining speeds by hundreds of times. This news piqued my interest, and I began to delve deeper into Bitcoin.

    At first, I was extremely excited, but to be honest, I only understood computers and programming and had no knowledge of finance. I considered Bitcoin to be a revolutionary technology that could change the world. From the perspective of financial freedom, it made global transfers free and convenient, which was an attractive concept for me at that time. Young people always pursue freedom, and I thought Bitcoin was really cool.

    2013 Hangzhou Bitcoin Conference: Met CZ, Star, and Others

    Colin: So, did you mine back then?

    Sheldon: Yes! While I was still studying, I tried mining using my own computer. The industry was still small back then, and I often met people at offline events. For instance, during the summer of 2013, I attended a Bitcoin conference in Hangzhou and met people like CZ, Star Xu from OK, Jame Gong, Mo Buyi, and Nick Chong. Everyone participated out of enthusiasm for blockchain, and there was quite a bit of interaction, which allowed me to meet many future industry partners.

    Colin: Did you continue to explore the industry after that?

    Sheldon: During college, I did some blockchain development and even created my own coin, which was quite well-known in 2013. Afterwards, I chose to focus on my studies and went to Stevens Institute of Technology in New Jersey, USA, to pursue a master’s degree in computer science. While academically returning to the traditional computer field, I continued to follow developments in blockchain.

    Overall, Bitcoin indeed inspired me, especially the financial innovations it brought. What truly deepened my understanding of this industry was in 2016, when a fellow alumnus from my university, who had gone to the US before me and was working at SAP in Seattle, became the group leader of our overseas alumni association. We often chatted and exchanged views on blockchain and Bitcoin. During those years, I also attempted algorithmic trading and discussed related issues with him.

    Sheldon: Later, I read the Ethereum white paper, and after finishing it, I felt invigorated. At that time, Ethereum’s vision was to build a “world computer,” putting computation and storage entirely on-chain. This model was more intuitive compared to Bitcoin, with a grander vision and broader imaginative space, along with richer practical application scenarios.

    Colin: Was this in 2015?

    Sheldon: It was in the second half of 2016, just before Ethereum’s explosive growth. After reading its white paper, I felt it was a completely new world. Unlike Bitcoin’s philosophy, Ethereum could support smart contracts and had greater extensibility, which elevated my understanding of blockchain to another dimension.

    Subsequently, I and some classmates began to try coding and created some small applications on Ethereum. At the same time, I also participated in the cryptocurrency trading frenzy, accumulating some initial capital in the market. I experienced two bull market cycles and made some profits, but compared to those early players fully devoted to the industry, my capital accumulation was not that large.

    2017: The Opportunity and Preparation for BitMart’s Establishment

    In 2017, after graduating with my master’s degree, the market was particularly favorable for cryptocurrencies. I began considering my next direction and ultimately decided to start a business with some friends I met in 2013. Our idea was to establish a trading platform, so we began preparations in September 2017 and officially launched on March 15 of the following year. During those 8 to 9 months, we faced many challenges, including team building and fundraising. The entire process was quite tortuous, but we managed to launch the exchange right at the end of the bull market.

    Since then, BitMart Exchange has officially entered a fast-paced development track. The seven years have been both long and filled with challenges. Joining the crypto space was actually a coincidence, but fundamentally, it was driven by my interest in technology and the intriguing nature of blockchain. On the other hand, my understanding of traditional finance was limited, while blockchain offered a brand-new financial paradigm that could potentially disrupt the traditional financial system from a technical standpoint. Therefore, I ultimately decided to immerse myself in this industry and have persevered ever since.

    Colin: What was your strategy when you first started the exchange? Did you have a clear direction at that time?

    Sheldon: Our initial idea was quite simple. On one hand, the crypto market was in a rapid development phase, and on the other hand, competition in the exchange industry was not as fierce as it is now, with a high demand for listing coins. From the perspective of market demand, we believed there was significant potential for growth in exchange operations.

    Additionally, we identified three core areas in the industry: exchanges, mining, and chips. Ultimately, we chose exchanges as our entrepreneurial direction since the other two fields were not our areas of expertise.

    Our competitive strategy has actually remained largely unchanged from that time to now. The core value of an exchange lies in providing a trading venue, liquidity, and quality trading assets, so we decided from the outset to adopt a rich listing strategy. However, in 2017, the industry infrastructure was still underdeveloped, and optimizing product richness, liquidity, and technical foundation was much more challenging than it is today.

    At that time, there was a severe shortage of talent in the entire industry. There were almost no real blockchain practitioners, and most of the talent had to be cultivated or solutions had to be explored independently, making technical difficulties relatively high. However, we consistently adhered to our competitive strategy, which has continued to this day.

    Our team had a strong global presence, which led to BitMart being highly regarded worldwide. When the exchange launched, it garnered significant attention, and the subsequent user structure remained consistent across the globe.

    2017-2021: BitMart’s Journey from Startup to Rapid Development

    Colin: If you were to divide BitMart’s 7 to 8 years of development into different phases, how would you define these phases? What are their characteristics?

    Sheldon: I believe that BitMart’s development phases are closely linked to changes in the company’s organizational structure, talent framework, and business scale. If we were to categorize the phases, I believe the company is currently in the fourth phase.

    The first phase includes the years 2017 to 2019, during which BitMart was in its startup stage as a company. At that time, our team was small, and our business level and market share were still in the early stages of development.

    The bear market in 2019 and the market slump in early 2020 were significant tests for the team. The entire industry was extremely cold at that time, leading us to undergo a wave of personnel adjustments, with many early core members choosing to leave due to the changing market environment. I believe that during that phase, every exchange faced immense survival pressure. It was the most challenging period.

    Following that, from 2020 to 2021, we entered the second phase, which was a rapid development phase. In early 2020, Fenbushi Capital invested in our equity, which, although not a large amount, was highly significant for us.

    In 2020, we upgraded the team comprehensively, and the organizational structure underwent a major adjustment. Many key core members joined at that time and have remained with the company, becoming the backbone of today’s organization, taking on crucial management roles. This organizational adjustment laid the foundation for BitMart’s rapid growth thereafter.

    Sheldon: In 2020 and 2021, with the optimization of our talent structure, we also welcomed a bull market. During those two years, asset issuance was exceptionally frantic, and DeFi summer drove the expansion of the entire crypto industry’s asset scale, also creating numerous opportunities for the appreciation of emerging assets. This industry trend directly propelled the business growth of BitMart Exchange.

    Especially in mid-2021, our performance data reached an extraordinarily exaggerated growth level, with monthly trading volume increasing by 100 times compared to 2020. In terms of user growth, the number of retail traders and app downloads surged, and we briefly entered the top 20 of the Apple Store, even surpassing PayPal at one point. During that time, BitMart’s daily downloads reached hundreds of thousands, with daily registrations peaking in the tens of thousands, rapidly increasing our market share. It can be said that at that time, our exchange business ranked at least in the top five globally.

    Our success primarily relied on a rich asset issuance strategy and the user-friendliness of our platform products.

    2022-2023: Strengthening Risk Control and Security Investments

    Sheldon: We define the years 2022 and 2023 as the “consolidation phase” of development. The main focus of our investment has been on products, research and development, security, and risk control. We have conducted another round of upgrades and optimizations for our internal management processes, product research systems, operational SOPs, and team structure.

    The years 2017 to 2019 were led by the first generation of BitMart’s management team, while 2020 to 2021 saw the introduction of the second generation of core leadership. In 2022 to 2023, we welcomed the third generation of core leadership, gradually moving towards a professional managerial approach, bringing in many key personnel from traditional finance industries and other leading exchanges. At the same time, we also undertook large-scale upgrades and iterations of our technical systems, optimizing the exchange’s infrastructure.

    Moreover, the construction of our risk control and security systems has also been further strengthened, with substantial investment in security facilities. To some extent, we view the bear market as an opportunity to focus on internal optimization and enhance overall stability and risk resistance.

    2024: Launching an In-house Developed Derivatives System

    Sheldon: I believe that the period from 2024 to 2025 will be the fourth development stage for BitMart, marking a new growth phase. The core growth areas during this phase will primarily focus on contracts and derivatives business.

    In 2024, we officially launched a brand-new an in-house developed derivatives system, which is a fully in-memory trading clearing and settlement system that greatly enhances trading efficiency and performance. In terms of derivatives products, this system has nearly bridged the gap between us and first-tier exchanges. The launch of this complete clearing and settlement system has made the expansion of our derivatives business much smoother. Over the past year, the growth rate of derivatives trading has been rapid, becoming a new growth engine for the company.

    Additionally, to accommodate this growth, we have also made adjustments and optimizations to our fourth-generation leadership team, further introducing new core management. This evolution of organizational structure is actually an inevitable trend, as it is difficult to advance the company to the next stage without adapting the organizational structure to changes in business models.

    BitMart’s Core Strategy for Compliant Development

    Colin: I remember you have always emphasized compliance. Compared to other trading platforms, your strategy seems somewhat different. How did you formulate your compliance strategy back then?

    Sheldon: Yes, BitMart established a CCO (Chief Compliance Officer) from the very beginning. Our core executive team also includes someone specifically responsible for legal affairs. In the early stages, we conducted in-depth analyses of the compliance environment for business development and formulated a comprehensive compliance operation plan, closely cooperating with law firms to ensure our business operations were legal and compliant. Thus, we have a relatively light historical burden.

    Sheldon: I believe that the founders of each exchange have different personalities and decision-making styles. As entrepreneurs, the most important thing is to clearly understand what you truly want, what you have, and what you are willing to give up.

    Some exchanges choose an extremely aggressive growth model, willing to take compliance risks in pursuit of excess returns. We, on the other hand, clearly chose a more stable development path from the outset, unwilling to take unnecessary legal risks. This reflects the differing considerations of various entrepreneurs regarding risk and return; each exchange will have its unique considerations.

    Future Market Expansion Directions: Focus on Asia and Europe

    Colin: Has your user base changed? You just mentioned the derivatives business, and in certain markets, you clearly cannot conduct derivatives trading. Has there been any adjustment in the geographic distribution of your users?

    Sheldon: Our derivatives business was relatively small before 2024. Compared to derivatives trading, spot trading has relatively lenient regulatory requirements, so we have remained in a relatively controllable state regarding regulatory pressure.

    From 2021 to 2024, there has been a noticeable change in our user distribution, shifting from primarily North American users to being dominated by Asian and European markets. Currently, our derivatives trading remains mainly concentrated in the Asian market, where user activity and trading demand are still the highest.

    Core Value of Retaining Users Lies in “Appreciation of Data Assets” and “Interactive Services”

    Colin: So, how is your overall revenue and profitability situation now? How has the company performed in terms of revenue?

    Sheldon: Overall, the situation is quite good. Our ability to list coins has always been strong. If you conduct market research, you will find that we are consistently one of the exchanges with the most and fastest listings in the industry. Our accelerated listing strategy has kept our overall revenue at a relatively stable high level, especially in terms of revenue from spot trading fees, where we have always maintained a leading position.

    In 2023, we explicitly proposed a strategy for diversifying our “revenue pillars,” expanding from solely spot revenue to include derivatives revenue. In 2024, the growth of derivatives trading significantly boosted our overall revenue. This has also led to some expansion within our team, though we still maintain streamlined operations. Currently, the company has nearly 500 employees, more than doubling in size compared to 2021.

    Colin: Will there be any new changes in the company’s strategy this year?

    Sheldon: Yes, BitMart’s core strategy has been evolving, but there is a core vision and mission that has never changed. Over the past five years, during every annual and quarterly meeting, we have repeatedly emphasized our vision—to become the infrastructure of the future Web3 world.

    Colin: You mentioned the vision that the company has consistently adhered to. If you were to summarize the core values of BitMart’s development over the years or the most important aspects of corporate culture, how would you define them?

    Sheldon: From a user-facing perspective, we have always aimed to provide a free trading venue, offering users the opportunity for asset selection, and creating an open, free, and trustworthy Web3 platform. Therefore, our products and trading tools are always designed from the user’s needs, striving to meet user demands as much as possible in terms of trading experience and asset support. This philosophy has enabled BitMart to maintain a high user retention rate and continuously expand its market.

    Colin: What kind of values do you advocate in terms of the company’s internal culture?

    Sheldon: The core values of our internal culture can be summarized in five keywords: trust, reliability, simplicity, efficiency, and persistence.

    These values permeate the company’s daily communication, strategy formulation, and business execution processes. Whether in team collaboration or decision-making in response to market changes, we consistently adhere to these five core principles.

    From the revenue strategy perspective, we are promoting the expansion from spot income to derivatives income to achieve diversified growth. From a long-term strategic viewpoint, this year we also formulated a “decentralized wallet strategy.” In the third quarter of 2025, we plan to launch our own decentralized wallet and integrate it with existing CEX wallets.

    For exchanges, the core value of retaining users lies in the “appreciation of data assets” and “interactive services.” The wallet strategy is extremely important to us as it is not merely a storage tool but also serves as the gateway for users to enter the Web3 world. Based on this entry point, we can establish a complete asset appreciation system and provide services such as asset management and information interaction. This aligns with the core direction of our long-term vision and mission.

    Colin: Is it necessary to develop a wallet in-house? For instance, acquiring existing on-chain products or wallets might also be a good choice, much like Binance acquiring Trust Wallet back in the day?

    Sheldon: Indeed, acquisition is a feasible option, but we have already built substantial technical expertise in this area. Our asset management framework also collaborates with some third-party custodians, such as Copper, Fireblocks, and Cobo. However, our internal team has accumulated significant experience in wallet technology over a long period. The year 2025 is a suitable time, so we decided to develop it in-house rather than pursue an acquisition directly.

    The Trend of Integration Between CEX and DEX

    Colin: Your strategy is also an issue that all CEXs must face. Just like in 2017 when Binance capitalized on the altcoin market boom, today CEXs may face challenges from DEX and on-chain economies. Do you think this challenge will fundamentally impact CEXs?

    Sheldon: I believe that CEX and DEX each have their distinct advantages, and the user groups they serve differ significantly. Currently, it is unlikely that the product forms of the two will fully merge in the short term, but in the medium to long term, CEX and DEX will gradually converge, borrowing from and integrating with each other’s technologies.

    For example, many DEXs rely on decentralized backends for clearing and settlement, but the front-end presentation and interaction still use centralized methods. Similarly, CEXs are beginning to integrate decentralized self-custody wallets into their internal centralized wallets, enhancing users’ control over their assets.

    I think that in the future, both CEX and DEX will continue to grow in market size and ultimately form a state of integration. DEXs have clear advantages in terms of transparency, self-custody, and censorship resistance, while CEXs still dominate in high-frequency trading, high liquidity, and support for complex trading strategies. Therefore, neither will completely replace the other; instead, they will continually move closer in their respective areas of expertise, forming a complementary relationship.

    Colin: Do you think the market space for CEX will become smaller? On one hand, it faces competition from DEX, and on the other, local compliance exchanges are also developing rapidly.

    Sheldon: This question needs to be analyzed separately. In terms of absolute market value, the market size of CEXs will continue to grow over the next 5 to 10 years. However, in terms of market share, the outlook may not be as optimistic.

    Currently, regulation on DEX is relatively lenient. For instance, the withdrawal of lawsuits against DEX-driven protocols like Uniswap has provided many opportunities for DEX to grow. Therefore, the market share of DEX may continue to rise.

    However, the growth of CEXs still relies on the overall expansion of assets in the crypto industry. Especially with the trend of digital financial assets, the advent of the AI era will generate a large number of new data assets, significantly increasing their application and interaction frequency. Overall, the market size of the industry (especially for CEX exchanges) will continue to grow and is unlikely to stagnate at least in the next 5 to 10 years.

    Nonetheless, changes in market share may suggest that more emerging entrepreneurs will find greater opportunities in DEX or other DeFi areas.

    Bitcoin Market Prediction: Long-Term Target of $1 Million, Short-Term Influenced by Federal Reserve Policies

    Colin: You have a lot of observations about the US market, and we’ve discussed the current market state. How do you see the upcoming market trend? What impact might adjustments in US policies have on the market? The US government is indeed loosening regulations and providing greater support to the industry, but at the same time, macro factors like rising inflation may have some influence on the market. How do you view the future market trends? From the company’s perspective, you must also assess these factors, as they will directly impact future investments and growth planning. Additionally, how do you view the opportunities that changes in the US regulatory environment may bring to the industry?

    Sheldon: From the perspective of the secondary market, Bitcoin has gradually decoupled from other asset classes, but it still remains highly correlated with US macroeconomic policies. Therefore, in the long term, most people’s view is consistent—Bitcoin will eventually rise to $1 million. However, in the short term, Bitcoin’s price movements are still largely dependent on the Federal Reserve’s interest rate cut policies, the inflow of funds for Bitcoin spot ETFs, and any potential national Bitcoin reserve plans.

    Currently, the downside potential for Bitcoin seems limited, and while market liquidity is somewhat constrained, Bitcoin’s fundamentals remain solid. However, aside from Bitcoin, the market situation for other crypto assets is relatively bleak. The market currently lacks new capital influx, and there are no truly valuable “trust-level” protocols or applications emerging from the product side. Therefore, in terms of value creation and liquidity, the entire market remains in a sluggish state.

    This recent market surge’s funding primarily comes from traditional financial institutions and the inflow of US ETFs. Bitcoin’s ultimate destination is to be held by banks and a few compliant custodians, rather than flowing into DEXs or unregulated entities as it did in the past. Thus, the overall leverage in the market has significantly decreased. In previous bull markets, offshore exchanges or unregulated entities had very high leverage, leading to market over-expansion, while the deleveraging process frequently resulted in liquidation waves, creating massive volatility. However, in this round, the leverage spillover effect is relatively weak; even though Bitcoin’s turnover rate is high, the proportion of retail holdings has significantly decreased. Consequently, the entire secondary market, especially the altcoin market, remains in a relatively challenging phase.

    Sheldon: From the perspective of the US policy environment, the potential return of Trump could bring certain opportunities to the market. In the past, the US government’s regulatory model was primarily enforcement-driven, as the crypto industry has long lacked clear legal foundations. Enforcement mainly relied on securities laws and anti-money laundering regulations. Furthermore, multiple agencies (SEC, CFTC, DOJ, etc.) have regulated the crypto industry under a traditional financial framework, with a very tough stance. This multi-agency regulatory model has led to a significant outflow of domestic companies, causing market funds to remain in a prolonged wait-and-see state.

    Trump’s election, while not immediately resulting in new legislation, could positively influence the regulatory attitude. From the legislative process perspective, after a bill is proposed in the House, it needs to be reviewed by the Senate, followed by multiple rounds of amendments. Therefore, forming a stable regulatory framework will take a long time. However, the Trump administration’s attitude might bring short-term positive impacts on the market, especially for institutional investors who are currently hesitant, as this could serve as an important incentive, releasing suppressed market capital and the energy for product innovation.

    Currently, enforcement agencies maintain a strong crackdown on illegal activities and financial crimes in the crypto industry. However, in terms of securities regulation, especially regarding innovative businesses involving crypto assets, such as tokenization and DeFi compliance, there is a possibility of greater policy leniency. Overall, the trend suggests that the future US crypto industry will gain a more stable policy environment to a certain extent, rather than being in a high-pressure and uncertain state as in the past few years.

    Colin: But are you concerned that US policies may undergo drastic changes with party shifts? For instance, two or four years down the line, if Congress changes, could there be a significant reversal in policy direction?

    Sheldon: That possibility does exist, and it can even be said to be highly likely. This four-year period is better described as a postponement of enforcement rather than a cessation. For example, several crypto-related companies were prosecuted right before the election last year, and some significant fines and settlements were also finalized during Biden’s term. If political parties change again in four years, the likelihood of stricter regulatory policies remains high. 

    About BitMart
    BitMart is the premier global digital asset trading platform. With millions of users worldwide and ranked among the top crypto exchanges on CoinGecko, it currently offers 1,700+ trading pairs with competitive trading fees. Constantly evolving and growing, BitMart is interested in crypto’s potential to drive innovation and promote financial inclusion. New users can register here to unlock an $8,000+ welcome bonus.

    Disclaimer:
    Use of BitMart services is entirely at your own risk. All crypto investments, including earnings, are highly speculative in nature and involve substantial risk of loss. Past, hypothetical, or simulated performance is not necessarily indicative of future results.

    The value of digital currencies can go up or down and there can be a substantial risk in buying, selling, holding, or trading digital currencies. You should carefully consider whether trading or holding digital currencies is suitable for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial circumstances, and risk tolerance. BitMart does not provide any investment, legal, or tax advice.

    The MIL Network –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General – on Somalia

    Source: United Nations

    The Secretary-General strongly condemns today’s attack in Somalia targeting a convoy carrying President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud which resulted in casualties.  He expresses his condolences to the families of the bereaved and wishes a speedy recovery to the injured.

    The Secretary-General reaffirms the United Nations’ full solidarity and support to the people and Government of Somalia in their fight against terrorism and in furthering efforts towards peace and stability.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Resumed Hostilities, Blocked Aid Destroying Ceasefire Gains in Gaza, Security Council Hears

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    As Israel resumes airstrikes over Gaza and blocks entry of humanitarian aid into the Strip, the modest gains made during the ceasefire are being destroyed, Tom Fletcher, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, told the Security Council today.

    “Overnight, our worst fears materialized,” he added, noting unconfirmed reports of hundreds of people killed on 17 March.  Recalling his recent visit to the Occupied Palestinian Territory and Israel in February, he said that — despite the devastation he saw — “my trip coincided with some of Gaza’s better days” because a ceasefire was in place and humanitarians were delivering hundreds of trucks every day.  “Not anymore,” he reported.

    Since 2 March, Israeli authorities have halted the entry of all lifesaving supplies, including food, medicine, fuel and cooking gas, for 2.1 million people.  Repeated requests to collect aid sitting at the Karem Shalom border crossing have also been systematically rejected, no further hostages have been released and Israel has cut power to southern Gaza’s desalination plant, limiting access to clean water for 600,000 people.

    Further, international staff of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) are no longer able to rotate into and out of Gaza due to recent Knesset legislation.  He also highlighted new registration rules for international non-governmental organizations, as well as a law under consideration to impose high taxes on donations from third States to Israeli humanitarian and human-rights groups.

    Also pointing to the urgent crisis in the West Bank, he said that 95 Palestinians have been killed, including 17 children, since the start of 2025.  Additionally, Israeli military operations in the northern West Bank have displaced 40,000 Palestinians, while hundreds of Israeli settlers have launched large-scale attacks on Palestinian villages.  Outlining three urgent asks, he called on the Council to enable the entry of humanitarian aid and commercial essentials into Gaza, renew the ceasefire and fund the humanitarian response.

    Palestine Says Death Returns to Gaza, Israel Says Hamas Responsible

    The Permanent Observer for the State of Palestine, noting that this meeting was initially called to discuss Gaza’s humanitarian situation, added:  “Now we gather here after a series of deadly Israeli attacks that killed, last night alone, hundreds of Palestinians.”  Bombardment, death, devastation, fire and fear are yet again spreading throughout Gaza, he said.

    “Ceasefire works — it is the only thing that does,” he stressed, stating that it stopped the bloodshed, allowed the release of hostages and prisoners and enabled the delivery of humanitarian aid.  Unilateral, self-serving and irresponsible decisions cannot be used as excuses for breaking it.  “While the Trump Administration has prioritized the release of hostages, it is evident that [Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin] Netanyahu’s concern for his political survival far outweighs his concern for the survival of the hostages,” he added.

    The Arab Summit endorsed a clear vision and a solid plan for a different trajectory for Gaza and Palestine — “these efforts should be supported, not compromised and sabotaged”, he urged.  The international community must also support the Palestinian Government’s assumption of its responsibilities throughout the Occupied Palestinian Territory, the deployment of a UN-mandated mission throughout the Territory, a permanent ceasefire and the two-State solution.  “This is a historical moment, where everyone must choose where they stand and what vision they want to see prevail,” he said.

    However, Israel’s representative stressed that “the return to fighting is a necessity”, reaffirming his country’s commitment to bring home its hostages and defeat Hamas.  Hamas has refused to release hostages and has repeatedly rejected all offers by the United States and mediating countries — even during Ramadan — he said, spotlighting the Israel Defense Forces’ precise attacks on Hamas targets.

    For months, Israel took unprecedented steps to facilitate humanitarian aid into Gaza, he asserted, adding that these efforts are “not speculation, not political rhetoric”; they are “documented, verifiable and confirmed by the organizations distributing and supplying the aid”.  The hostages still held in brutal captivity by Hamas should be paramount for those truly concerned about humanitarian crises, he said, adding:  “Any discussion of humanitarian suffering that does not begin with the hostage release is not an honest discussion.”

    “The slander that the people of Gaza are currently starving is quite simply untrue,” he continued, stating that “claims that electricity cut-off has plunged Gaza into humanitarian collapse are greatly exaggerated”. Rather, any suffering in Gaza is due to Hamas’ hijacking of aid for its violent ends.  Pointing to certain Council members’ efforts to malign Israel, he stressed:  “If this Council wishes to address suffering, then it must demand the immediate and unconditional release of the hostages.”

    Some Council Members Also Point to Hamas

    Along similar lines, the representative of United States emphasized that the blame for resumed hostilities lies solely with Hamas, which has steadfastly refused “every proposal and deadline they’ve been presented”.  Hamas prefers to hold hostages captive and hide amongst the people of Gaza, she said, dismissing the allegation of indiscriminate attacks by the Israel Defense Forces.  Underlining the need to tackle Iran’s “malign influence and State sponsorship of terror”, she said that Middle Eastern countries have an “historic opportunity to reshape their region”.

    Echoing that, Panama’s delegate said that the suffering in Gaza is the direct consequence of Hamas’ extremist actions, “which unleashed this tragic spiral of violence”.  He, too, condemned Hamas’ current refusal to meet the commitments agreed upon and release additional hostages.

    France’s representative highlighted the international conference to be held in June, chaired by his country and Saudi Arabia, on the implementation of the two-State solution.  The reconstruction plan for Gaza put forward by the Arab League must exclude Hamas from Gaza’s governance, he said.  “The terrorist attacks committed by Hamas and other terrorist groups on 7 October 2023 constitute the worst anti-Semitic massacre since the Shoah”, and he therefore reaffirmed France’s solidarity with the Israeli people.

    Others Point to Israel’s Responsibility as Occupying Power

    Algerians understand the cruelty of occupation “because we endured it for over 130 years”, that country’s delegate recalled.  “This deliberate blockade, timed to coincide with the holy month of Ramadan, is a calculated effort to break the resilience of the Palestinian people,” he stressed.  Further, he observed that “the Israeli occupying Power is using water — yes, water — as a weapon of war.”  Once again, Palestinian blood has become a tool for the calculations of Israeli politicians, and he called on mediator countries to ensure compliance with the ceasefire.

    Blocking trucks, cutting off electricity, mistreating non-governmental organizations, preventing Muslims from accessing the Aqsa Mosque compound — “these are all tactics of the oppressor”, stated Pakistan’s representative.  The manner in which the Council and the international community respond to such atrocities will have a lasting impact on the nature of the world order.  He also pointed out that international humanitarian law prohibits targeting military targets in civilian facilities. 

    The Republic of Korea’s representative said that Hamas’ refusal to carry out its obligations does not justify blocking humanitarian aid or using it as a bargaining chip.  He cited Under-Secretary-General Fletcher’s remarks during a 12 March press briefing:  “I said to my colleague:  Why are the dogs so fat?  And he said:  Because the dogs are looking for corpses.”  Israel must immediately cease its offensive, he stressed, urging all parties to return to the negotiating table.

    The representative of Denmark, Council President for March, spoke in her national capacity to spotlight Israel’s obligation, as the occupying Power, to ensure that the civilian population does not lack food or other basic needs, including water.  Sierra Leone’s delegate also noted that Israel, as the occupying Power, has obligations under the Fourth Geneva Convention and international humanitarian law.

    They, along with the representatives of the United Kingdom and China, were among the many speakers who underscored the need for an immediate ceasefire.  Somalia’s speaker, expressing concern that Israeli strikes in Gaza were taking place during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, also said that worshipers at the Aqsa Mosque compound must be able to freely and safely perform their religious rituals.  The Russian Federation’s delegate warned against delays, noting that many have died because of the Council’s earlier inability to decide on a ceasefire.

    Several speakers condemned Israel’s decision to halt humanitarian aid into Gaza.  “This decision is illegal,” emphasized Guyana’s representative, who also highlighted the impact on women — many have died from complications related to pregnancy and childbirth because of the restrictions.  She also noted the 13 March report of the independent international commission of inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, which points to Israel’s systematic use of sexual, reproductive and other forms of gender-based violence since 7 October 2023.

    Slovenia’s representative, noting that it is roughly one year since the International Court of Justice issued provisional measures relating to humanitarian aid, famine and starvation in the case brought forward by South Africa, said that it is unacceptable that “our conversations are still the same”. 

    Greece’s delegate added that UNRWA’s role is indispensable with millions in urgent need of primary health services, education and shelter.  “War has not left the next generation in Gaza untouched,” he said, noting that thousands of children died, were injured or separated from their families and internally displaced.  The unhindered and continuous flow of aid into all parts of Gaza should remain a priority, and he also voiced support for the Arab plan put forth by Egypt.

    Also speaking today was the Permanent Observer of the League of Arab States, who urged implementation of the first phase of that plan, adopted during an Arab League meeting in Cairo and later endorsed by a ministerial meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).  He also urged the Council to activate international oversight mechanisms to guarantee the safe and sustainable delivery of aid and ensure the protection of Palestinian civilians.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Joint UN meeting tackles small arms control to foster sustainable development

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    At the joint session, speakers before two of the UN’s most representative bodies stressed that these weapons have fueled wars, exacerbated humanitarian crises and undermined efforts for peace and stability. The urgency to curb their proliferation, stakeholders noted, has made the search for integrated approaches to disarmament and development ever more critical.

    The session, entitled Small arms and light weapons control for preventing violence and advancing sustainable development, was opened by Philemon Yang, President of the General Assembly.

    Mayhem and ‘the weapon of choice’

    He emphasized that the gathering was not intended to review progress on the Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons, known by the shorthand ‘PoA’, but rather to focus on the destructive impact of illicit flows and misuse of small arms and light weapons on development.

    “Our objective today is to focus on the destructive impact of the illicit flows and misuse of small arms and light weapons on development,” Mr. Yang stated, underscoring the ease with which these arms can be acquired due to their availability and low cost, leading to their misuse by non-state actors and driving instability and conflict worldwide.

    “It is estimated that 580,000 people died violently in 2021, half of them by firearm,” he noted, adding that small arms are the weapon of choice in nearly half of all homicides globally.

    The Assembly President also highlighted the disproportionate impact on women and girls, with estimates indicating that between 70 and 90 per cent of incidents of sexual violence during conflict involve small arms and light weapons.

    “In conflict and post-conflict situations, such as in Haiti, South Sudan, Sudan, and many parts of the Sahel, illicit small arms and light weapons jeopardize peace and sow the seeds of future instability, creating a vicious cycle of violence and conflict that obstructs sustainable development,” he explained.

    Mr. Yang pointed out the economic toll of violence linked to these weapons, which was estimated to have cost the global economy $22.6 billion in 2023. “Imagine what these resources could do if they were deployed towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” he urged.

    However, he acknowledged the implementation gaps that hinder the containment of the phenomenon. “We hope that today’s discussion will be an opportunity to revitalize the debate on illicit flows and misuse of small arms and light weapons and their effects on socio-economic development,” he said, calling for collaborative and effective approaches to address the issue.

    Mr. Yang concluded by urging delegations to focus on the dangers to development caused by small arms-related insecurity and excessive military expenditures.

    “Article 26 of the UN Charter calls for the least diversion of the world’s human and economic resources to armaments,” he reminded the joint session, suggesting viable proposals for operationalizing the relationship between disarmament and development.

    Following Mr. Yang’s address, Bob Rae, President of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), emphasized the importance of addressing small arms and light weapons control within the framework of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly target 16.4 of SDG16, which calls for a significant reduction of illicit financial and arms flows.

    “Despite this commitment, conventional weapons, including small arms and light weapons, continue to fuel conflicts and inflict a significant number of casualties and suffering every year,” Mr. Rae stated.

    United Nations

    Ambassador Bob Rae, President of the Economic and Social Council, addresses a joint meeting on small arms and light weapons control for preventing violence and advancing sustainable development.

    Comprehensive approaches can save lives

    Mr. Rae called for a comprehensive and integrated response to address the adverse consequences of the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons on sustainable development.

    “Addressing the issue of small arms and light weapons comprehensively will not only save lives directly, but also indirectly by channeling resources towards the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals as well as other basic needs of populations, such as health, education, and housing,” he explained.

    He emphasized the need for efforts to be guided by the principle of leaving no one behind and aligning the priority of gender equality with the goal of reducing arms. 

    Mr. Rae highlighted the importance of consultations with civil society, indigenous peoples, youth, and members of the LGBTQI+ community to ensure a gender-responsive, inclusive, and intersectional approach to disarmament, non-proliferation, and arms control.

    To effectively mainstream gender in the comprehensive response to small arms and light weapons, he outlined several key actions, including improving data collection on violent crime disaggregated by sex, age, and whether a small arm was used; and promoting the full, equal, meaningful, safe, and effective participation of women in technical and policy-related roles.

    “It is of utmost importance that women are fully represented as active participants, and not just victims, in combating the effects of small arms and light weapons and bringing their voices to strengthen decision-making processes,” Mr. Rae emphasized.

    Women’s voices can strengthen action

    He highlighted the need for an integrated response to address the illicit trade and diversion of small arms and light weapons, harnessing synergies with the SDGs and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW).

    “We must engage a wide variety of national institutions, civil society, academia, and research institutions to address the issue of small arms and light weapons efficiently, impactfully, and comprehensively,” he stated.

    The joint meeting also featured concluding remarks from Adedeji Ebo, Director and Deputy to the UN High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, who highlighted the gathering’s significance in operationalizing commitments from global frameworks, including the small arms and light weapons PoA and the Global Framework for Through-life Conventional Ammunition Management.

    “Today’s discussions clearly underscored why strengthening this link is a priority,” Mr. Ebo stated. He emphasized that small arms and light weapons control is not merely a short-term remedy for public security concerns but a long-term investment in social, political, and economic development.

    “Achieving progress on Goal 16 of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development – namely to reduce illicit arms flows – enables us to make progress on several other Goals, including gender equality, education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability,” he explained.

    Mr. Ebo also outlined several key recommendations from the event, including the need to:

    1. bridge the gap between policy communities at the UN;
    2. integrate small arms and light weapons control measures into national and regional development frameworks; and
    3. facilitate cross-border collaboration through regional approaches.

    “By embedding small arms control in development strategies, we can better address both immediate and long-term peacebuilding priorities, ensuring a more cohesive approach that links disarmament, development, and human security,” he stated.

    He also emphasized the importance of a whole-of-government and human-centered approach at the national level, involving cross-disciplinary working groups and broad partnerships with grassroots organizations and civil society.

    The UN official highlighted initiatives such as the ODA-managed UNSCAR Trust Facility and the Saving Lives Entity (SALIENT), which support small arms control and sustainable development efforts.

    United Nations

    Adedeji Ebo, Director and Deputy to the UN High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, addresses a joint meeting on small arms and light weapons control for preventing violence and advancing sustainable development.

    Mr. Ebo echoed other officials in stressing the need for gender-responsive small arms and light weapons policies, including the integration of disarmament efforts into strategies to prevent gender-based violence and empower women as key actors in arms control processes.

    “It is essential that diverse voices and needs are heard in both disarmament and development discussions,” he stated, calling for inclusive data collection systems and enhanced diversity and inclusion in policymaking processes.

    Mr. Ebo concluded by highlighting the rising global costs of conflict and military expenditures, as spotlighted in the Pact for the Future, adopted by UN Member States this past September and which lays out a vision for multilateral cooperation across key global issues, including peace and security, the SDGs, development finance, governance reform, and climate change, among others.

    He encouraged ECOSOC and the General Assembly to consider convening a dedicated joint meeting to discuss the findings of a study on this issue. “The link between disarmament and sustainable development is undeniable.”

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Draft agenda – Tuesday, 1 April 2025 – Strasbourg

    Source: European Parliament

    26 Macro-financial assistance to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
    Céline Imart     – Amendments; rejection Wednesday, 26 March 2025, 13:00 40 Implementation of the common foreign and security policy – annual report 2024
    David McAllister (A10-0010/2025)      – Amendments Wednesday, 26 March 2025, 13:00 39 Implementation of the common security and defence policy – annual report 2024
    Nicolás Pascual de la Parte (A10-0011/2025)      – Amendments Wednesday, 26 March 2025, 13:00 38 Human rights and democracy in the world and the European Union’s policy on the matter – annual report 2024
    Isabel Wiseler-Lima (A10-0012/2025)      – Amendments Wednesday, 26 March 2025, 13:00 47 Targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo – defending religious freedom and security     – Motion for a resolution Wednesday, 26 March 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to the motion for a resolution Friday, 28 March 2025, 12:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions Monday, 31 March 2025, 19:00 Separate votes – Split votes – Roll-call votes Texts put to the vote on Tuesday Friday, 28 March 2025, 12:00 Texts put to the vote on Wednesday Monday, 31 March 2025, 19:00 Texts put to the vote on Thursday Tuesday, 1 April 2025, 19:00 Motions for resolutions concerning debates on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law (Rule 150) Wednesday, 2 April 2025, 19:00

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Draft agenda – Wednesday, 2 April 2025 – Strasbourg

    Source: European Parliament

    22 Guidelines for the 2026 budget – Section III
    Andrzej Halicki     – Amendments Wednesday, 26 March 2025, 13:00 28 Protocol on the Implementation of the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Community and the Republic of Guinea-Bissau (2024-2029)
    Eric Sargiacomo     – (possibly) Amendments Wednesday, 26 March 2025, 13:00 18 Strengthening the security of identity cards of Union citizens and of residence documents issued to Union citizens and their family members exercising their right of free movement
    Malik Azmani     – (possibly) Amendments Wednesday, 26 March 2025, 13:00 42 Action Plan for the Automotive Industry     – Motions for resolutions Wednesday, 26 March 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions Monday, 31 March 2025, 19:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions Monday, 31 March 2025, 20:00     – Requests for “separate”, “split” and “roll-call” votes Tuesday, 1 April 2025, 13:00 24 Energy-intensive industries     – Motion for a resolution Wednesday, 26 March 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions Friday, 28 March 2025, 12:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions Monday, 31 March 2025, 19:00 11 Debates on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law (Rule 150)     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 31 March 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 2 April 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 2 April 2025, 14:00 Separate votes – Split votes – Roll-call votes Texts put to the vote on Tuesday Friday, 28 March 2025, 12:00 Texts put to the vote on Wednesday Monday, 31 March 2025, 19:00 Texts put to the vote on Thursday Tuesday, 1 April 2025, 19:00 Motions for resolutions concerning debates on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law (Rule 150) Wednesday, 2 April 2025, 19:00

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: NZ food price inflation improving, but prices skyrocket for poor nations – WorldVision

    Source: World Vision

     

    • Food price inflation for ten basic food items has improved in New Zealand from a 56% rise in 2023 to an 18% drop in 2024
    • It takes 2.4 hours to pay for a basic food basket in NZ and 1.7 hours in Australia.  This compares with 47 days in Barundi and 20 days in Sudan.
    • There is growing global inequality in food access with food price inflation disproportionately affecting low-income nations.
    • Wealthier nations need to commit to funding emergency food aid and humanitarian aid.

     

     A new report on food price inflation shows basic food items are now more affordable in New Zealand, but reveals devastating increases for some of the world’s poorest countries, including Sudan, Burundi, and Timor Leste. 

     

    World Vision’s annual Price Shocks Report examines food price inflation in 77 countries for ten common food items, including rice, bananas, chicken, tomatoes, eggs, milk, and oil, and compares these with prices a year ago.

     

    The 2025 report finds that food prices dropped 18% in New Zealand in 2024, compared with a 56% increase for the same basic food items in 2023.  The average New Zealander would have to work for 2.4 hours to pay for the ten common food items.  This compares with three hours in 2023.

     

    However, while food price inflation has improved in more wealthy nations, such as New Zealand, Australia, France, Germany, Ireland and the United States, it has dramatically worsened for many of the world’s poorest countries, especially those in sub-Saharan Africa. 

     

    In 16 countries in this year’s study, it would take more than one week of work to earn enough money to pay for World Vision’s standard food basket.

     

    These countries, such as Sudan, Chad, Somalia, and Burundi are united in facing climate and environmental extremes, along with armed conflict, political instability and massive population displacement.

     

    World Vision Head of Advocacy and Justice, Rebekah Armstrong, says the report highlights the urgent need for adequate funding for emergency food aid.

     

    “This report is released in turbulent and uncertain times and the findings emphasise the need for urgent action to sustain global food systems and prevent the agonising impacts of hunger.

     

    “This requires interventions to address the root causes of hunger, but it also demands that we fund and deliver adequate emergency food aid. 

     

    “Sadly, we know that humanitarian funding for food security programming is expected to fall far short of the target to address predicted needs in 2025, and that means millions will go hungry due a deficit of political will and resources.  It doesn’t have to be this way,” she says. 

     

    World Vision is calling on the New Zealand government to make a strong commitment to support humanitarian food aid, climate adaptation, and global hunger responses — especially within the Asia-Pacific region, where communities are particularly vulnerable to climate and economic shocks. 

     

    Armstrong says in addition to saving millions of lives, emergency food aid and cash grants for food are one of the key ways to avoid greater political unrest around the world.

     

    “Food insecurity is an indicator of wider instability, but it also contributes to political unrest, conflict, economic stagnation and delays in development.  Addressing food security is a proven method to help create a safer and more secure world for everyone,” she says. 

     

    Armstrong says in 2024, only 47% of required humanitarian food assistance was funded leaving millions without support.

     

    She says the Rohingya crisis, the ongoing war in Sudan, prolonged droughts in the Horn of Africa and cyclones in the Pacific all contribute to conditions that exacerbate hunger.

     

    “We are at a breaking point.  Governments and the global community need to fulfil the commitments they have made and act now to scale up food aid, support smallholder farmers and invest in long-term solutions to prevent millions more from falling into famine.”

     

    New Zealanders who want to support emergency food aid can give here: wvnz.org.nz/wfp

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: DRC: M23’s rampant human rights abuses demand international action

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Hundreds of dead bodies collected in under a month

    Alarming increase in rapes and other sexual violence in North and South Kivu

    On one night, over 130 people were abducted from Goma hospitals by M23 fighters

    ‘We were whipped. We were made to lie down and beaten on our buttocks and hands’ -Civilian account of hospital abduction

    ‘The world must not turn a blind eye to the crimes taking place in eastern DRC’ – Tigere Chagutah

    Since capturing the city of Goma in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in January, the Rwandan-backed M23 armed group has raided hospitals, abducted patients, including civilians and hospitalised Congolese soldiers, and subjected them to acts of torture, Amnesty International said today.

    Amnesty interviewed 25 survivors, eyewitnesses, civil society activists, human rights defenders, journalists inside the DRC and in exile. They also documented cases of gang rape committed by M23, as well as acts of ill-treatment against human rights defenders after the group seized Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, on 27 January, and Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, on 16 February.

    Amnesty is calling on the East African Community, the Southern African Development Community, the European Union and other international actors to increase pressure on all parties to the conflict to protect civilians and treat detainees humanely, in accordance with international humanitarian law.

    Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, said:

    “Since taking control of Goma, the M23 has instilled a climate of fear and vicious reprisals among the local population. The alarming scale and frequency of abuses in eastern Congo should shock the world. The violence has been enabled by decades of impunity for serious abuses and human rights violations.

    “M23 and the Congolese army, which are bound to international humanitarian law, must be held to account for the rapes. The world must not turn a blind eye to the crimes taking place in eastern DRC.”

    Hospital abductions

    On the night of 28 February and the morning of 3 March, M23 armed fighters forcibly entered Heal Africa and CBCA Ndosho hospitals in Goma where they abducted more than 130 people. These included members of the Congolese army, some of whom had been wounded, and caregivers. They were taken to a stadium in the city where some were tortured. M23 fighters forced some abductees to lie on the ground, whipped them, and pressured them to join M23. Some civilians were released, but many individuals remain missing.

    “(At the stadium), M23 asked civilians to stay together,” said a person who was abducted in the hospital raids. “We were whipped. We were made to lie down and beaten on our buttocks and hands.” They said: ‘If you’re a soldier, admit it.’”

    Sultani Makenga, the military leader of M23, said in a recent interview that members of the Congolese army at the hospitals pretended to be patients or caregivers. He said M23 found 14 weapons in the hospitals and that hospital staff had alerted them to the situation. He also said M23 detained those who did not belong in hospital.

    Under international humanitarian law, all persons who are wounded and sick must be respected and protected. Civilians must not be targeted. Torture, inhumane treatment and targeting civilians or wounded members of the military, may constitute war crimes.

    Hundreds of dead bodies found in South Kivu

    Amnesty received eyewitness accounts and numerous photos of dead bodies frequently found in neighbourhoods in Bukavu, a city of more than one million residents. From 17 February to 13 March 2025, the Congolese Red Cross collected 43 dead bodies in Bukavu, including 29 civilians. Across South Kivu province, during the same period, the Congolese Red Cross collected 406 bodies, including 110 civilians.

    Human rights defenders, journalists and civil society workers targeted

    Amnesty has documented cases of human rights defenders, journalists and civil society activists who have been detained by M23 in recent weeks. They were held in both makeshift and official detention centres, some were tortured and threatened. Dozens of activists have gone into hiding or fled Congo in search of safety.

    Outside the country, threats continue. A human rights defender, who has documented violations committed by M23 since 2023, said that he had received a text message that said: “If we find you, you’re going to be in trouble. Stay where you are.”

    Another defender described how M23 arbitrarily arrested and whipped him after he was recognised by an M23 official. He was briefly detained for speaking out against violations committed by M23 before Goma was taken over.

    People deprived of their liberty, including civilians and members of the military or the M23, are protected under international humanitarian law. M23 must treat humanely all people who it detains. Acts of torture or inhumane treatment may constitute war crimes.

    Alarming levels of sexual violence

    Humanitarian organisations have reported an alarming increase in rapes and other sexual violence cases in North and South Kivu. Survivors told Amnesty how they were raped by M23 fighters and threatened with death.

    In one case, a woman said M23 fighters suspected she was a spy. She said five M23 fighters, wearing military uniforms and armed with weapons, gang-raped her. In another case, two men in Congolese military uniforms raped a pregnant woman and abducted her husband.

    MIL OSI NGO –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: DRC: M23’s rampant human rights abuses demand concerted international action

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Since capturing the city of Goma in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in January, the Rwandan-backed M23 armed group has raided hospitals, abducted patients, including civilians and hospitalized Congolese soldiers, from their beds and subjected them to acts of torture, Amnesty International said today.

    The organization also documented cases of gang rape committed by M23, as well as acts of ill-treatment against human rights defenders after the group seized Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, on 27 January, and Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, on 16 February. Amnesty International is calling on the East African Community, the Southern African Development Community, the European Union and other international actors to increase pressure on all parties to the conflict to protect civilians and treat detainees humanely, in accordance with international humanitarian law.

    “Since taking control of Goma, the M23 has instilled a climate of fear and vicious reprisals among the local population. The alarming scale and frequency of abuses in eastern Congo should shock the world. The violence has been enabled by decades of impunity for serious abuses and human rights violations,” said Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa.

    Since taking control of Goma, the M23 has instilled a climate of fear and vicious reprisals among the local population. The alarming scale and frequency of abuses in eastern Congo should shock the world

    Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa

    Amnesty International interviewed 25 survivors, eyewitnesses, civil society activists, human rights defenders, journalists inside the DRC and in exile.

    Abductions at hospitals

    On the night of 28 February and the morning of 3 March, M23 armed fighters forcibly entered Heal Africa and CBCA Ndosho hospitals in Goma where they abducted more than 130 people. These included members of the Congolese army, some of whom had been wounded, and caregivers. They were taken to a stadium in the city where some were tortured. M23 fighters forced some abductees to lie on the ground, whipped them, and pressured them to join M23. Some civilians were released, but many individuals remain missing.

    “(At the stadium), M23 asked civilians to stay together,” said a person who was abducted in the hospital raids. “We were whipped. We were made to lie down and beaten on our buttocks and hands. They said: ‘If you’re a soldier, admit it.’”

    Sultani Makenga, the military leader of M23, said in a recent interview that members of the Congolese army at the hospitals pretended to be patients or caregivers. He said M23 found 14 weapons in the hospitals and that hospital staff had alerted them to the situation. He also said M23 detained those who did not belong in hospital.

    Under international humanitarian law, all persons who are wounded and sick must be respected and protected. Civilians must not be targeted. Torture, inhumane treatment and the taking of hostages by M23, if targeted against civilians or wounded members of the military, may constitute war crimes.

    “All patients and caregivers, including soldiers in need of medical care, should be immediately released and returned to hospitals so they can continue their treatment,” said Tigere Chagutah.

    Hundreds of dead bodies found in South Kivu

    Amnesty International received eyewitness accounts and numerous photos of dead bodies frequently found in neighborhoods in Bukavu, a city of more than one million residents. From 17 February to 13 March 2025, the Congolese Red Cross collected 43 dead bodies in Bukavu, including 29 civilians. Across South Kivu province, during the same period, the Congolese Red Cross collected 406 bodies, including 110 civilians.

    Human rights defenders, journalists and civil society workers targeted

    Amnesty International has documented cases of human rights defenders, journalists and civil society activists who have been detained by M23 in recent weeks. They were held in both makeshift and official detention centres, some were tortured and threatened. Dozens of activists have gone into hiding or fled Congo in search of safety.

    But even outside the country, threats continue. A human rights defender, who has documented violations committed by M23 since 2023, said that he had received a text message that said: “If we find you, you’re going to be in trouble. Stay where you are.”

    Another defender described how M23 arbitrarily arrested and whipped him after he was recognized by an M23 official. He was briefly detained for speaking out against violations committed by M23 before Goma was taken over.

    People deprived of their liberty, including civilians and members of the military or the M23, are protected under international humanitarian law. M23 must treat humanely all people who it detains. Acts of torture or inhumane treatment may constitute war crimes.

    Alarming levels of sexual violence

    Humanitarian organizations have reported an alarming increase in rapes and other sexual violence cases in North and South Kivu. Survivors told Amnesty International how they were raped by M23 fighters and threatened with death.

    M23 and the Congolese army, which are bound to international humanitarian law, must be held to account for the rapes.  

    Tigere Chagutah

    In one case, a woman said M23 fighters suspected she was a spy. She said five M23 fighters, wearing military uniforms and armed with weapons, gang-raped her. In another case, two men in Congolese military uniforms raped a pregnant woman and abducted her husband.

    “M23 and the Congolese army, which are bound to international humanitarian law, must be held to account for the rapes. The world must not ignore the crimes taking place in eastern DRC,” said Tigere Chagutah.

    MIL OSI NGO –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Niger: Authorities failing to uphold their commitment to respect human rights since military coup

    Source: Amnesty International –

    The Nigerien military-led authorities have failed to uphold their commitment to respect human rights and protect civil liberties, said Amnesty International in a new report documenting the clampdown on former regime officials and critical voices since the July 2023 coup.

    The report, “Niger: Threatened and Brought to Heel: Human Rights and Civic Space under pressure since the 26 July Coup”, sheds light on the deterioration of civic space and violations of civil and political rights since the overthrow of President Mohamed Bazoum.

    Amnesty International documented human rights violations including arbitrary detentions, enforced disappearances, abuses of detainees’ rights and violations of the right to a fair trial and of press freedom. The victims of arbitrary detention include former President Mohamed Bazoum, his wife, seven cabinet members of the fallen regime, journalists and human rights defenders.

    The Nigerien authorities made a commitment to respect the rule of law and human rights.
    Our report shows that they have clearly failed.

    Marceau Sivieude, Amnesty International’s Interim Regional Director for West and Central Africa

    “Upon taking power, the new authorities justified their coup on a continued worsening of the security situation and poor economic and social governance. They made a commitment to respect the rule of law and human rights. Our report shows that they have clearly failed, with a sharp escalation of human rights violations since the coup. They must now keep their commitment”, said Marceau Sivieude, Amnesty International’s Interim Regional Director for West and Central Africa.  

    MIL OSI NGO –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Video: Gaza, Occupied Palestinian Territory & other topics – Daily Press Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon briefing by Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    – Secretary-General
    – Gaza
    – Occupied Palestinian Territory- Humanitarian
    – Occupied Palestinian Territory
    – U.N. Interim Force in Lebanon
    – Syria
    – Somalia
    – Democratic Republic of the Congo
    – D.R. Congo/Peacekeeping
    – South Sudan
    – South Sudan/Humanitarian
    – Tropical Storm Jude
    – Haiti
    – Financial Contributions

    SECRETARY-GENERAL
    In Geneva today, the Secretary-General concluded the informal meeting on Cyprus that he convened with the two Cypriot leaders and the Guarantor Powers of Greece, Türkiye and the United Kingdom.  
    Speaking to the press at the end of the meeting, the Secretary-General said the
    discussions were held in a constructive atmosphere, with both sides showing clear commitment to making progress and continuing dialogue.
    The Secretary-General added that the leaders have agreed to a group of initiatives to build trust: opening four crossing points; demining; the creation of a technical committee on youth; initiatives on the environment and climate change, including the impacts on mining areas; solar energy in the buffer zone; and the restoration of cemeteries. 
    Mr. Guterres said that the leaders also agreed to hold another meeting in the same format at the end of July, as well as to the appointment of a Personal Envoy to prepare the next steps.
    As we mentioned earlier, the meeting was held in the context of the Secretary-General’s good offices efforts on the Cyprus issue and as agreed with the two leaders on 15 October 2024.   
    The Secretary-General will be leaving for Brussels shortly, where he will meet with European Union leaders – and you will recall that this is something he has been doing in the month of March for the past few years.  
    Tomorrow, he is scheduled to meet Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, Antonio Costa, the President of the European Council, as well as Roberta Metsola, the President of the European Parliament.  And we will keep you updated on his activities in Brussels.

    GAZA
    The Secretary-General expressed his shock earlier today at the Israeli airstrikes in Gaza, and he strongly appeals for the ceasefire to be respected, for unimpeded humanitarian assistance to be reestablished, and for the remaining hostages to be released unconditionally. Speaking to the press in Geneva, he said the situation in Gaza was intolerable, with hundreds of people having been reportedly killed.
    Muhannad Hadi, the Humanitarian Coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, said that the killings were unconscionable, adding that a ceasefire must be reinstated immediately.
    People in Gaza have endured unimaginable suffering, he said, and an end to hostilities, sustained humanitarian assistance, release of the hostages and the restoration of basic services and people’s livelihoods, are the only way forward.
    Volker Türk, the High Commissioner for Human Rights, added that the last 18 months of violence have made abundantly clear that there is no military path out of this crisis. The only way forward is a political settlement, in line with international law. Israel’s resort to yet more military force will only heap further misery upon a Palestinian population already suffering catastrophic conditions, he said.

    OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY- HUMANITARIAN
    The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reports that the Israeli military has ordered people to evacuate areas in Beit Hanoun and Khan Younis. This marks the first evacuation order issued in more than two months – since 15 January. Many people have already been displaced, seeking safety elsewhere.
    OCHA notes that the area covered by the evacuation order totals about 23 square kilometres – more than 6 per cent of the Gaza Strip – and includes more than a dozen sites sheltering displaced people. The area is also home to three clinics and one field hospital, with additional medical facilities located nearby. OCHA warns that no guarantees have been provided for the safety, protection and wellbeing of those ordered to leave, let alone for those staying behind.
    The World Health Organization says medical evacuations planned for today have been denied and is calling for the resumption of such evacuations.
    And the UN and our partners working in education report that activities have stopped in more than 300 facilities across the Strip, depriving thousands of children from their right to education. 

    Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/ossg/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=18+March+2025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wR0PvWRHXKM

    MIL OSI Video –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ICGS Saksham makes port call at Antsiranana, Madagascar

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 5:02PM by PIB Delhi

    Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Offshore Patrol Vessel Saksham made a port call at Antsiranana, Madagascar on March 18, 2025 as part of its overseas deployment to friendly countries in the Indian Ocean Region. During the visit, ICGS Saksham’s crew will engage with the Madagascar Coast Guard in joint training sessions and knowledge exchange programs focused on Marine Pollution Response (MPR), Maritime Search and Rescue (M-SAR), and Maritime Law Enforcement. The schedule includes cross-deck training, cultural engagements and friendly sporting events, further strengthening the camaraderie between the two maritime forces. 

    ICG personnel will also conduct specialised training on Marine MPR, focusing on handling oil spills, chemical spills and marine pollution incidents to enhance Madagascar’s preparedness for environmental emergencies. Additionally, 10 NCC cadets and 10 Assam Rifles personnel onboard the ship will participate in beach clean-up drives and awareness programs in collaboration with local youth organisations as part of the ‘Puneet Sagar Abhiyan’, reinforcing the importance of marine conservation. 

    ICGS Saksham’s visit to Madagascar aligns with India’s broader maritime vision, ‘SAGAR – Security and Growth for All in the Region’, emphasising regional stability, security, and sustainability. The deployment reflects India’s proactive engagement with Indian Ocean nations, highlights its shipbuilding capabilities under ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, and fosters stronger diplomatic & security ties.

     ***

    VK/MR/KB

    (Release ID: 2112329) Visitor Counter : 32

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CROPS UNDER MSP

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 6:10PM by PIB Delhi

    Government fixes minimum support prices (MSPs) for 22 mandated agricultural crops on the basis of the recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Costs & Prices (CACP), after considering the views of State Governments and Central Ministries/ Departments concerned. The details of increase in the cost of production and comparative details of the increase in cost of production and increase in MSP of various crops covered under MSP in the last five years is enclosed at Annexure-I.

     Government procures cereals and coarse cereals through Food Corporation of India (FCI) and other designated State Agencies to provide price support to the farmers.

    The estimates for procurement of wheat and paddy are finalized by Government of India (GoI) in consultation with State Governments and Food Corporation of India, before the commencement of each marketing season based upon estimated production, marketable surplus and agricultural crop pattern.

    States are allowed to procure coarse grains from farmers at MSP under central pool subject to the prior approval of GOI on the detailed procurement plan prepared by State Governments in consultation with FCI.

    Procurement of pulses, oilseeds and copra is done under Price Support Scheme under Umbrella Scheme of Pradhan Mantri Anna data AaySanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA), in consultation with the concerned State Government as and when market price of these produce fall below the MSP. Procurement agencies under PM-AASHA Scheme are National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd (NAFED) and National Co-operative Consumers’ Federation of India Ltd. (NCCF). The overall quantity of procurement by Central Government will be restricted to 25% of All India production of the commodity for that particular season/year.

    Cotton and Jute are also procured by Government at MSP through Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) and Jute Corporation of India (JCI), respectively. There is no maximum quantity limit of purchase of produced jute and cotton from farmers.

    This information was given by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ******

     MG/KSR

    Annexure-I

    All India Cost of Production and MSP all Kharif Crops for Marketing Season 2020-21 & 2024-25

    Sl.

    No.

    A

    B

    C

    D=C-B

    E

    F

    G=F-E

    Kharif Crops

    Cost

    MSP

     

     

    2020-21

    2024-25

    Difference

    2020-21

    2024-25

    Difference

    1

    Paddy Common

    1245

    1533

    288

    1868

    2300

    432

    2

    Jowar

    1746

    2247

    501

    2620

    3371

    751

    3

    Bajra

    1175

    1485

    310

    2150

    2625

    475

    4

    Ragi

    2194

    2860

    666

    3295

    4290

    995

    5

    Maize

    1213

    1447

    234

    1850

    2225

    375

    6

    Tur(Arhar)

    3796

    4761

    965

    6000

    7550

    1550

    7

    Moong

    4797

    5788

    991

    7196

    8682

    1486

    8

    Urad

    3660

    4883

    1223

    6000

    7400

    1400

    9

    Groundnut

    3515

    4522

    1007

    5275

    6783

    1508

    10

    Sunflower

    3921

    4853

    932

    5885

    7280

    1395

    11

    Soyabean(Yellow)

    2587

    3261

    674

    3880

    4892

    1012

    12

    Sesamum

    4570

    6178

    1608

    6855

    9267

    2412

    13

    Nigerseed

    4462

    5811

    1349

    6695

    8717

    2022

    14

    Cotton(Medium Staple)

    3676

    4747

    1071

    5515

    7121

    1606

     (In Rs./Qtl.)

    All India Cost of Production and MSP all Rabi Crops for Marketing Season 2021-22 & 2025-26

     

    Sl.

    No.

    Rabi Crops

    Cost

    MSP

     

     

    2021-22

    2025-26

    Difference

    2021-22

    2025-26

    Difference

     

    1

    Wheat

    960

    1182

    222

    1975

    2425

    450

     

    2

    Barley

    971

    1239

    268

    1600

    1980

    380

     

    3

    Gram

    2866

    3527

    661

    5100

    5650

    550

     

    4

    Masur (Lentil)

    2864

    3537

    673

    5100

    6700

    1600

     

    5

    Rapeseed & Mustard

    2415

    3011

    596

    4650

    5950

    1300

     

    6

    Safflower

    3551

    3960

    409

    5327

    5940

    613

     
                       

     (in Rs./Qtl.)

    All India Cost of Production and MSP of Copra (Milling) for Marketing Season 2021 & 2025.

    (In Rs./Qtl.)

    Sl.

    No.

    Crop

    Cost

    MSP

     

    		  

    2021

    2025

    Difference

    2021

    2025

    Difference

    1

    Copra (Milling)

    6805

    7721

    916

    10335

    11582

    1247

     

    All India Cost of Production and MSP of Jute for Marketing Season 2021-22 & 2025-26.

    (in Rs./Qtl.)

    Sl.

    Crop

    Cost

    MSP

    No.

    		  

    2021-22

    2025-26

    Difference

    2021-22

    2025-26

    Difference

     

    1

    Jute

    2832

    3387

    555

    4500

    5650

    1150

     
                       

     

    ****

    (Release ID: 2112407) Visitor Counter : 64

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: European Union – Main results of the Foreign Affairs Council (17 Mar. 2025)

    Source: France-Diplomatie – Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Development

    Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot took part in yesterday’s EU Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels, where important discussions were held on several topical international issues.

    With regard to the situation in Ukraine, France reiterated the need to strengthen military support for Ukraine and to step up pressure on Russia by adopting additional sanctions. During the month of March, the EU allocated nearly €4.5 billion to support Ukraine.

    The Member States stressed the importance of preserving the ceasefire in Gaza, releasing the hostages and resuming humanitarian aid. France emphasized that the plan endorsed by the Arab League on March 8 represented an important contribution. We also reaffirmed our opposition to any plan involving the forced displacement of Palestinians and underscored the importance of European efforts to preserve the two-state solution.

    As for Syria, France condemned the violence that occurred in the coastal region and noted the gradual, reversible nature of the lifting of individual and sectoral sanctions in light of recent events. We also proposed sanctions targeting those responsible for the atrocities committed against civilians in the west of the country.

    Furthermore, at France’s initiative, European sanctions were adopted against the Islamic State – Khorasan Province and its propaganda organ. The Foreign Affairs Council also authorized the adoption of restrictive measures against nine individuals and one entity as part of the sanctions regime relating to the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Oral question – Decision by the Court of Justice of the European Union on EU-Kingdom of Morocco trade agreements – O-000009/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for oral answer  O-000009/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 142
    João Oliveira (The Left), Ana Miranda Paz (Verts/ALE), Estrella Galán (The Left), Andreas Schieder (S&D), Giorgos Georgiou (The Left), Jaume Asens Llodrà (Verts/ALE), Rudi Kennes (The Left), Vicent Marzà Ibáñez (Verts/ALE), Danilo Della Valle (The Left), Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez (Renew), Hanna Gedin (The Left), Vladimir Prebilič (Verts/ALE), Ruth Firmenich (NI), Maria Zacharia (NI), Lynn Boylan (The Left), Jonas Sjöstedt (The Left), Kostas Papadakis (NI), Lefteris Nikolaou-Alavanos (NI), Pernando Barrena Arza (The Left), Per Clausen (The Left), Dario Tamburrano (The Left), Carolina Morace (The Left), Gaetano Pedulla’ (The Left), Valentina Palmisano (The Left), Mario Furore (The Left), Pasquale Tridico (The Left), Cecilia Strada (S&D), Irene Montero (The Left), Isabel Serra Sánchez (The Left), Kathleen Funchion (The Left), Fabio De Masi (NI), Mimmo Lucano (The Left), Ilaria Salis (The Left), Catarina Vieira (Verts/ALE), Özlem Demirel (The Left), Matjaž Nemec (S&D), Friedrich Pürner (NI)

    On 4 October 2024, the decision of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) concerning cases [C-778/21P and C-798/21P] and [C-779/21P and C-799/21P] was released. It dismissed appeals brought by the Commission and the Council of the European Union against the judgments of the General Court of September 2021 (respectively, EU:T:2021:640 and EU:T:2021:639) concerning the trade agreements between the EU and the Kingdom of Morocco. Those judgments had declared the respective trade agreements null and void.

    The judgment reiterates that the Polisario Front is ‘a privileged interlocutor in the process conducted under the auspices of the United Nations with a view to determining the future status of Western Sahara, the decisions of which are binding on all EU Member States and institutions’.

    It also states that the agreements in question do not mean that the EU recognises ‘the claims of the Kingdom of Morocco concerning sovereignty over the territory of Western Sahara’ and that the application of an agreement between the EU and the Kingdom of Morocco concerning the territory of Western Sahara must receive the consent of its people and its legitimate representatives, otherwise their right to self-determination would be violated.

    The conclusion of agreements with Morocco, ignoring the CJEU’s preliminary rulings, has caused damage to the Sahrawi people by granting access to resources unlawfully exploited thus far by Morocco, for which they must be compensated.

    In the light of these decisions:

    • 1.What steps has the Commission taken to comply with the CJEU decision?
    • 2.Will it start negotiations with the Polisario Front, the legitimate representative of the Sahrawi people, to compensate for the ensuing damage and on the future trade framework for those territories?
    • 3.What steps will it take, in compliance with the provisions of countless UN resolutions, to uphold the right of the Sahrawi people to self-determination?

    Submitted: 13.3.2025

    Lapses: 14.6.2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Oral question – Decision by the Court of Justice of the European Union on EU-Kingdom of Morocco trade agreements – O-000008/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for oral answer  O-000008/2025
    to the Council
    Rule 142
    João Oliveira (The Left), Ana Miranda Paz (Verts/ALE), Estrella Galán (The Left), Andreas Schieder (S&D), Giorgos Georgiou (The Left), Jaume Asens Llodrà (Verts/ALE), Rudi Kennes (The Left), Vicent Marzà Ibáñez (Verts/ALE), Danilo Della Valle (The Left), Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez (Renew), Hanna Gedin (The Left), Vladimir Prebilič (Verts/ALE), Maria Zacharia (NI), Lynn Boylan (The Left), Jonas Sjöstedt (The Left), Kostas Papadakis (NI), Lefteris Nikolaou-Alavanos (NI), Pernando Barrena Arza (The Left), Per Clausen (The Left), Dario Tamburrano (The Left), Friedrich Pürner (NI), Carolina Morace (The Left), Gaetano Pedulla’ (The Left), Valentina Palmisano (The Left), Mario Furore (The Left), Pasquale Tridico (The Left), Cecilia Strada (S&D), Irene Montero (The Left), Isabel Serra Sánchez (The Left), Kathleen Funchion (The Left), Fabio De Masi (NI), Mimmo Lucano (The Left), Ilaria Salis (The Left), Catarina Vieira (Verts/ALE), Özlem Demirel (The Left), Matjaž Nemec (S&D), Ruth Firmenich (NI)

    On 4 October 2024, the decision of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) concerning cases [C-778/21P and C-798/21P] and [C-779/21P and C-799/21P] was released. It dismissed appeals brought by the Commission and the Council of the European Union against the judgments of the General Court of September 2021 (respectively, EU:T:2021:640 and EU:T:2021:639) concerning the trade agreements between the EU and the Kingdom of Morocco. Those judgments had declared the respective trade agreements null and void.

    The judgment reiterates that the Polisario Front is ‘a privileged interlocutor in the process conducted under the auspices of the United Nations with a view to determining the future status of Western Sahara, the decisions of which are binding on all EU Member States and institutions’.

    It also states that the agreements in question do not mean that the EU recognises ‘the claims of the Kingdom of Morocco concerning sovereignty over the territory of Western Sahara’ and that the application of an agreement between the EU and the Kingdom of Morocco concerning the territory of Western Sahara must receive the consent of its people and its legitimate representatives, otherwise their right to self-determination would be violated.

    The conclusion of agreements with Morocco, ignoring the CJEU’s preliminary rulings, has caused damage to the Sahrawi people by granting access to resources unlawfully exploited thus far by Morocco, for which they must be compensated.

    In the light of these decisions:

    • 1.What steps has the Council taken to comply with the CJEU decision?
    • 2.Will it start negotiations with the Polisario Front, the legitimate representative of the Sahrawi people, to compensate for the ensuing damage and on the future trade framework for those territories?
    • 3.What steps will it take, in compliance with the provisions of countless UN resolutions, to uphold the right of the Sahrawi people to self-determination?

    Submitted: 13.3.2025

    Lapses: 14.6.2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – 70 Christians found beheaded in a church in the DRC – European Union’s response – E-001018/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001018/2025
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Bert-Jan Ruissen (ECR), Miriam Lexmann (PPE)

    According to an Open Doors report from field sources[1], as well as reports from media outlets such as the Dutch NOS[2], 70 Christians were found beheaded in a church in the territory of Lubero in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The violence perpetrated on 13 February 2025 by suspected militants from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) with proven ties to ISIS, serves as a clear indicator of widespread human rights violations against civilians and vulnerable communities, often targeting Christians, in a climate of impunity.

    • 1.What is the European Union’s political and practical response to this and other acts of violence perpetrated by militant groups in the DRC?
    • 2.What measures is the European Union ready to apply to combat impunity in the DRC in relation to this attack and broader human rights abuses by groups such as the ADF?
    • 3.On 24 February 2025, the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas declared that the Memorandum of Understanding on minerals between the EU and Rwanda is currently under review. Will the Commission and the European External Action Service, when reconsidering the memorandum, take into account the allegation that it fuels violence, including against Christians, in the DRC?

    Submitted: 10.3.2025

    • [1] https://www.opendoorsuk.org/news/latest-news/drc-attack-church/.
    • [2] https://nos.nl/artikel/2557307-icc-aanklager-in-congo-voor-onderzoek-naar-oorlogsmisdaden-rebellen
    Last updated: 18 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The state of EU relations with Algeria following the arrest of Boualem Sansal – E-000089/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    EU-Algeria relations are framed by an Association Agreement[1] (2005) and Partnership Priorities[2] (2017), which have been extended. Recently, the Algerian authorities publicly expressed their intention to renegotiate the Association Agreement; however, no concrete proposals have yet been received by the EU.

    Through the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI), the EU finances projects in the field of governance and institutional capacity-building (including decentralisation), with a total budget of EUR 27 million.

    These ongoing projects are implemented in the country by European public bodies, development agencies and private companies.

    Additional projects focusing on protection of children in vulnerable situations, youth participation, women’s empowerment, and fight against sexual and gender-based violence are implemented by international organisations and civil society organisations.

    The EU has been closely monitoring the case of the Franco-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal since his arrest and, in full coordination with the French authorities, has raised the matter with Algerian authorities in both Algiers and Brussels. The EU remains fully engaged on this issue.

    While the EU is committed to addressing human rights concerns, it believes that constructive dialogue is the most effective approach. It will continue to advocate for the respect of human rights, including freedom of expression, while maintaining engagement with Algeria.

    This will also be pursued through the institutionalised dialogue on human rights, notably within the Sub-Committee on Political Dialogue, Security and Human Rights, which was established under the EU-Algeria Association Agreement.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/ALL/?uri=CELEX%3A22005A1010%2801%29
    • [2] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2017/03/13/eu-algeria/

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: European Union – Main results of the Foreign Affairs Council of 17 Mar. 2025

    Source: Republic of France in English
    The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

    Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot took part in yesterday’s EU Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels, where important discussions were held on several topical international issues.

    With regard to the situation in Ukraine, France reiterated the need to strengthen military support for Ukraine and to step up pressure on Russia by adopting additional sanctions. During the month of March, the EU allocated nearly €4.5 billion to support Ukraine.

    The Member States stressed the importance of preserving the ceasefire in Gaza, releasing the hostages and resuming humanitarian aid. France emphasized that the plan endorsed by the Arab League on March 8 represented an important contribution. We also reaffirmed our opposition to any plan involving the forced displacement of Palestinians and underscored the importance of European efforts to preserve the two-state solution.

    As for Syria, France condemned the violence that occurred in the coastal region and noted the gradual, reversible nature of the lifting of individual and sectoral sanctions in light of recent events. We also proposed sanctions targeting those responsible for the atrocities committed against civilians in the west of the country.

    Furthermore, at France’s initiative, European sanctions were adopted against the Islamic State – Khorasan Province and its propaganda organ. The Foreign Affairs Council also authorized the adoption of restrictive measures against nine individuals and one entity as part of the sanctions regime relating to the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Joint statement of the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Charlevoix

    Source: France-Diplomatie – Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Development

    We the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, met in Charlevoix on March 12 to 14, 2025.

    Ukraine’s long-term prosperity and security

    We reaffirmed our unwavering support for Ukraine in defending its territorial integrity and right to exist, and its freedom, sovereignty and independence.

    We welcomed ongoing efforts to achieve a ceasefire, and in particular the meeting on March 11 between the U.S. and Ukraine in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We applauded Ukraine’s commitment to an immediate ceasefire, which is an essential step towards a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in line with the Charter of the United Nations.

    We called for Russia to reciprocate by agreeing to a ceasefire on equal terms and implementing it fully. We discussed imposing further costs on Russia in case such a ceasefire is not agreed, including through further sanctions, caps on oil prices, as well as additional support for Ukraine, and other means. This includes the use of extraordinary revenues stemming from immobilized Russian Sovereign Assets. We underlined the importance of confidence-building measures under a ceasefire including the release of prisoners of war and detainees—both military and civilian—and the return of Ukrainian children.

    We emphasized that any ceasefire must be respected and underscored the need for robust and credible security arrangements to ensure that Ukraine can deter and defend against any renewed acts of aggression. We stated that we will continue to coordinate economic and humanitarian support to promote the early recovery and reconstruction of Ukraine, including at the Ukraine Recovery Conference which will take place in Rome on July 10-11, 2025.

    We condemned the provision to Russia of military assistance by DPRK and Iran, and the provision of weapons and dual-use components by China, a decisive enabler of Russia’s war and of the reconstitution of Russia’s armed forces. We reiterated our intention to continue to take action against such third countries.

    We expressed alarm about the impacts of the war, especially on civilians and on civilian infrastructure. We discussed the importance of accountability and reaffirmed our commitment to work together to achieve a durable peace and to ensure that Ukraine remains democratic, free, strong and prosperous.

    Regional peace and stability in the Middle East

    We called for the release of all hostages and for the hostages’ remains held by Hamas in Gaza to be returned to their loved ones. We reaffirmed our support for the resumption of unhindered humanitarian aid into Gaza and for a permanent ceasefire. We underscored the imperative of a political horizon for the Palestinian people, achieved through a negotiated solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that meets the legitimate needs and aspirations of both peoples and advances comprehensive Middle East peace, stability and prosperity. We noted serious concern over the growing tensions and hostilities in the West Bank and calls for de-escalation.

    We recognized Israel’s inherent right to defend itself consistent with international law. We unequivocally condemned Hamas, including for its brutal and unjustified terror attacks on October 7, 2023, and the harm inflicted on the hostages during their captivity and the violation of their dignity through the use of ‘handover ceremonies’ during their release. We reiterated that Hamas can have no role in Gaza’s future and must never again be a threat to Israel. We affirmed our readiness to engage with Arab partners on their proposals to chart a way forward on reconstruction in Gaza and build a lasting Israeli-Palestinian peace.

    We expressed our support for the people of Syria and Lebanon, as both countries work towards peaceful and stable political futures. At this critical juncture, we reiterated the importance of Syria’s and Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. We called unequivocally for the rejection of terrorism in Syria. We condemned strongly the recent escalation of violence in the coastal regions of Syria, and called for the protection of civilians and for perpetrators of atrocities to be held accountable. We stressed the critical importance of an inclusive and Syrian-led political process. We welcomed the commitment by the Syrian interim government to work with the OPCW in eliminating all remaining chemical weapons.

    We stressed that Iran is the principal source of regional instability and must never be allowed to develop and acquire a nuclear weapon. We emphasized that Iran must now change course, de-escalate and choose diplomacy. We underscored the threat of Iran’s growing use of arbitrary detention and foreign assassination attempts as a tool of coercion.

    Cooperation to increase security and resilience across the Indo-Pacific

    We reiterated our commitment to upholding a free, open, prosperous and secure Indo-Pacific, based on sovereignty, territorial integrity, peaceful resolution of disputes, fundamental freedoms and human rights.

    We remain seriously concerned by the situations in the East China Sea as well as the South China Sea and continue to oppose strongly unilateral attempts to change the status quo, in particular by force and coercion. We expressed concern over the increasing use of dangerous maneuvers and water cannons against Philippines and Vietnamese vessels as well as efforts to restrict freedom of navigation and overflight through militarization and coercion in the South China Sea, in violation of international law. We emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. We encouraged the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues and reiterated our opposition to any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion. We also expressed support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in appropriate international organizations.

    We remain concerned with China’s military build-up and the continued, rapid increase in China’s nuclear weapons arsenal. We called on China to engage in strategic risk reduction discussions and promote stability through transparency.

    We emphasized that China should not conduct or condone activities aimed at undermining the security and safety of our communities and the integrity of our democratic institutions.16. We expressed concerns about China’s non-market policies and practices that are leading to harmful overcapacity and market distortions. We further called on China to refrain from adopting export control measures that could lead to significant supply chain disruptions. We reiterated that we are not trying to harm China or thwart its economic growth, indeed a growing China that plays by international rules and norms would be of global interest.

    We demanded that the DPRK abandon all its nuclear weapons and any other weapons of mass destruction as well as ballistic missile programs in accordance with all relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions. We expressed our serious concerns over, and the need to address together, the DPRK’s cryptocurrency thefts. We called on DPRK to resolve the abductions issue immediately.

    We denounced the brutal repression of the people of Myanmar by the military regime and called for an end to all violence and for unhindered humanitarian access.

    Building stability and resilience in Haiti and Venezuela

    We strongly denounced the ongoing horrifying violence that continues to be perpetrated by gangs in Haiti in their efforts to seize control of the government. We reaffirmed our commitment to helping the Haitian people restore democracy, security and stability, including through support to the Haitian National Police and Kenya-led Multinational Security Support Mission and an increased role for the UN. We expressed support for Haitian authorities’ efforts to create a specialized anti-corruption jurisdiction that complies with the highest international standards.

    We reiterated our call for the restoration of democracy in Venezuela in line with the aspirations of the Venezuelan people who peacefully voted on July 28, 2024, for change, the cessation of repression and arbitrary or unjust detentions of peaceful protestors including youth by Nicolas Maduro’s regime, as well as the unconditional and immediate release of all political prisoners. We also agreed Venezuelan naval vessels threatening Guyana’s commercial vessels is unacceptable and an infringement of Guyana’s internationally recognized sovereign rights. We reaffirmed respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations as an enduring value.

    Supporting lasting peace in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo

    We unequivocally denounced the ongoing fighting and atrocities in Sudan, including sexual violence against women and girls, which have led to the world’s largest humanitarian crisis and the spread of famine. We called for the warring parties to protect civilians, cease hostilities, and ensure unhindered humanitarian access, and urged external actors to end their support fueling the conflict.

    We condemned the Rwanda-backed M23 offensive in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the resulting violence, displacement and grave human rights and international humanitarian law violations. This offensive constitutes a flagrant disregard of the territorial integrity of the DRC. We reiterated our call for M23 and the Rwanda Defence Force to withdraw from all controlled areas. We urged all parties to support the mediation led by the East African Community and the Southern African Development Community, to promote accountability for human rights abuses by all armed actors, including M23 and the FDLR, and to commit to a peaceful and negotiated resolution of the conflict, including the meaningful participation of women and youth.

    Strengthening sanctions and countering hybrid warfare and sabotage

    We welcomed efforts to strengthen the Sanctions Working Group focused on listings and enforcement. We also welcomed discussions on the establishment of a Hybrid Warfare and Sabotage Working Group, and of a Latin America Working Group.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Concludes 2025 Article IV Consultation, Third Review under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility with Morocco

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    March 18, 2025

    • The IMF Executive Board concluded the 2025 Article IV Consultation and approved the Third Review under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) arrangement with Morocco, allowing for the immediate disbursement of SDR 375 million (about US$ 496 million).
    • The Moroccan economy continued to show resilience despite another year of drought, with real GDP growth projected to slow modestly to 3.2 percent in 2024 amid strong domestic demand. Growth is expected to accelerate over the medium term, driven by stronger investment and the continued structural reforms.
    • Saving part of the revenue windfall from tax reforms would help strengthen fiscal buffers and protect against future shocks; while a new strategy to sustainably boost jobs and improve market competition would help address the increased unemployment linked to job displacement in the agricultural sector.

    Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) concluded on March 17 the 2025 Article IV consultation[1] with Morocco and completed the Third Review under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) arrangement, which was approved in September 2023 (see PR 23/327). The completion of the Third Review allows the authorities to draw SDR 375 million (about US$ 496 million), bringing total disbursement under the RSF arrangement to SDR 937.5 million (about US$ 1.24 billion). 

    In 2024, the Moroccan economy was resilient to yet another year of drought. Robust domestic demand helped offset weak agricultural output and economic activity is expected to have slowed only modestly to 3.2 percent in 2024. The current account deficit widened somewhat, whereas unemployment remained elevated at about 13 percent, mainly reflecting the impact of job losses in the agricultural sector. GDP growth is expected to accelerate to about 3.7 percent over the next few years, supported by a new series of infrastructure projects and the continued implementation of the structural reform agenda.

    Inflation decelerated further in 2024, mainly as the impact of supply shocks faded. This prompted Bank Al-Maghrib (BAM) to lower the policy rate twice in June and December. The dirham continued to move within the fluctuation band of ±5 percent.

    The central government fiscal deficit improved more than envisaged in the 2024 Budget. The 2024 overall deficit closed at 4.1 percent of GDP, about 0.2 percent of GDP less than projected in the 2024 Budget. This reflects better-than-expected tax revenues that more than offset higher spending. The reform of the Organic Budget Law envisages the introduction of a new fiscal rule based on a medium-term debt anchor.  

    The implementation of the announced structural reform agenda has continued. Further steps were taken to restructure SOEs, operationalize the Mohammed VI Investment Fund, and implement the new Charter of Investment.

    Morocco continued to make progress in bolstering its resilience to climate change under the RSF arrangement. Measures implemented under the third and final review of the RSF arrangement aim to better protect underground water resources, prepare the ground for a change in tariffication of water, improve the regulatory setting of the electricity market to encourage private sector’s production of renewable energy, and reinforce fiscal and financial systems’ resilience to climate change-related risks.   

    Following the Executive Board’s discussion on Morocco, Mr. Kenji Okamura, Deputy Managing Director and Acting Chair, issued the following statement:

    “The Moroccan economy continued to show resilience to negative shocks, a testament to the country’s very strong economic policies and frameworks. Despite renewed drought conditions, economic activity slowed only modestly to an estimated 3.2 percent in 2024, down from 3.4 percent in 2023, thanks to robust domestic demand. GDP growth is expected to accelerate to about 3.7 percent over the next few years, driven by a new cycle of infrastructure projects and the continued implementation of the structural reform agenda. These reforms are essential to making growth stronger, more resilient, job-rich, and more inclusive.

    “The RSF arrangement concluded with the implementation of six of the seven measures scheduled for the third and final review. These measures will help improve the management of scarce water resources, further liberalize the electricity sector, and address the climate risks on the stability of the fiscal position and the financial system. The gradual introduction of the carbon tax was not implemented as the authorities needed to undertake further analysis of its impact and deeper consultations with public and private stakeholders.” 

    Morocco: Selected Economic Indicators, 2020–30

    Population: 36.8 million; 2024

    		    

    Per capita GDP: $3,817; 2023

    		        

    Quota: SDR 894.4 million

    		    

    Poverty rate: 4.8 percent; 2013

    		        

    Main exports: automobiles, phosphate and derivatives; 2023

    		                

    Key export markets: France and Spain (42% of total trade); 2023

    		          
     

    2020

    2021

    2022

    2023

    2024

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030
             

    Proj.

    Output (annual percent change)

    		                      

    Real GDP growth

    -7.2

    8.2

    1.5

    3.4

    3.2

    3.9

    3.7

    3.6

    3.6

    3.6

    3.6

    Real nonagricultural GDP growth

    -7.2

    7.0

    3.2

    3.6

    4.1

    3.7

    3.7

    3.7

    3.7

    3.7

    3.7
                           

    Employment (percent)

    		                      

    Unemployment

    11.9

    12.3

    11.8

    13.0

    13.3

    13.2

    12.9

    12.4

    12.1

    11.9

    11.8
                           

    Prices

    		                      

    Inflation (end of period)

    -0.3

    3.2

    8.3

    3.4

    0.7

    2.1

    2.2

    2.2

    2.1

    2.0

    2.0

    Inflation (period average)

    0.7

    1.4

    6.6

    6.1

    0.9

    2.2

    2.3

    2.2

    2.1

    2.0

    2.0
                           

    Central government finances (percent of GDP) 1/

    		                      

    Revenue

    27.0

    25.1

    28.4

    27.9

    30.1

    30.4

    29.4

    28.1

    28.1

    28.1

    28.1

    Expenditure

    34.1

    31.0

    33.8

    32.3

    34.2

    34.3

    32.8

    31.4

    31.3

    31.2

    31.2

    Fiscal balance

    -7.1

    -5.9

    -5.4

    -4.5

    -4.1

    -3.9

    -3.4

    -3.3

    -3.2

    -3.1

    -3.1

    Public debt

    72.2

    69.4

    71.5

    69.5

    70.0

    68.9

    67.7

    66.8

    66.2

    65.6

    65.1
                           

    Money and credit (annual percent change)

    		                      

    Broad money

    8.4

    5.1

    8.0

    4.0

    7.9

    4.6

    4.6

    4.6

    4.6

    4.6

    4.6

    Claims to the economy 2/

    4.9

    3.8

    7.1

    5.3

    6.9

    4.5

    4.1

    4.2

    4.2

    4.2

    4.2

    Balance of payments

    		                      

    Current account (percent of GDP)

    -1.2

    -2.3

    -3.5

    -0.6

    -1.5

    -2.0

    -2.2

    -2.6

    -2.9

    -3.1

    -3.3

    Exports of goods (in U.S. dollars, annual percent change)

    -4.4

    34.4

    15.1

    -0.5

    8.6

    6.6

    7.3

    6.9

    6.8

    6.7

    6.7

    Imports of goods (in U.S. dollars, annual percent change)

    -12.0

    32.1

    21.9

    -2.6

    8.0

    8.1

    7.5

    7.4

    7.3

    6.4

    6.2

    Merchandise trade balance (percent of GDP)

    -12.8

    -14.0

    -20.2

    -17.3

    -17.3

    -17.8

    -18.0

    -18.3

    -18.6

    -18.6

    -18.5

    FDI (percent of GDP)

    0.8

    1.1

    1.2

    0.2

    0.7

    1.4

    1.5

    1.6

    1.6

    1.7

    1.7

    Gross reserves (months of imports)

    7.2

    5.8

    5.3

    5.4

    5.2

    5.2

    5.2

    5.2

    5.1

    5.1

    5.2

    External Debt (percent of GDP)

    54.2

    45.5

    46.9

    50.2

    47.8

    49.2

    50.0

    50.9

    50.2

    54.0

    57.3

    Exchange rate

    		                      

    REER (annual average, percent change)

    1.4

    1.6

    -3.2

    0.9

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Memorandum Items:

    		                      

    Nominal GDP (in billions of U.S. dollars)

    121

    142

    131

    144

    155

    166

    177

    188

    199

    212

    225

    Net imports of energy products (in billions of U.S. dollars)

    -5.3

    -8.4

    -15.1

    -12.0

    -11.5

    -12.1

    -12.3

    -12.8

    -13.2

    -13.7

    -14.1

    Local currency per U.S. dollar (period average)

    9.5

    9.0

    10.2

    10.1

    9.9

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Sources: Moroccan authorities; and Fund staff estimates.

    –––––––––––

    1/ Include grants.

    2/ Includes credit to public enterprises.

    [1] Under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, the IMF holds bilateral discussions with members, usually every year. A staff team visits the country, collects economic and financial information, and discusses with officials the country’s economic developments and policies. On return to headquarters, the staff prepares a report, which forms the basis for discussion by the Executive Board.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Wafa Amr

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

    @IMFSpokesperson

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/03/18/pr-2568-morocco-imf-concludes-2025-art-iv-consult-3rd-review-under-rsf

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 18 March 2025 One man’s dream of a hepatitis-free Tanzania

    Source: World Health Organisation

    “I never showed any symptoms,” Shaibu said. “Even now I’m looking healthy, but I live with this disease. That’s why we call hepatitis a silent killer.”  

    After being diagnosed, isolation and grief set in. Shaibu and Latifu were separated from classmates. Due to inadequate awareness and knowledge about the disease, health workers refused to touch them due to fears of contracting the disease and their community shunned them.  

    Recounting the pain he experienced, Shaibu said, “Viral hepatitis changed my entire life, because from there I started to face stigma. That’s when I started to understand the importance of how people should be treated.” 

    Credit: WHO / Vicky Markolefa  

    Caption: Shaibu Issa looks at an old photograph of his brother Latifu Dini, who passed away due to liver cancer resulting from chronic hepatitis B. 

    Beyond stigma, Shaibu and his brother faced another hurdle. The cost of treatment was more than their family could afford, and it required travelling to Dar es Salaam from their rural home near Mtwara in southern Tanzania.  

    The family sold everything and fundraised but it wasn’t enough to cover the brothers’ ongoing treatment, in addition to their university fees. Later, Shaibu and Latifu would overcome all odds and finish university, but Latifu would lose his life to liver cancer. 

    “After losing my brother, it was very bad because I believed I was next,” recalls Shaibu. “But I came to realize many people globally are suffering with this disease and face stigma and discrimination. My brother inspired me to take responsibility to represent these people.  

    I can’t let many people die out there while I can speak,” he says. 

    Using social media to inspire change 

    An estimated 254 million people globally are living with chronic hepatitis B infection, and roughly 1.1 million people die each year from the infection, mostly resulting from cirrhosis or liver cancer.  In Tanzania, there are roughly 1.9 million people living with chronic hepatitis B, and most of the tests and treatments for the infection are either unavailable or unaffordable. 

    Despite many people living the disease in Tanzania, few people are aware of how the disease is transmitted, its symptoms or how it can be prevented. This lack of awareness and resulting misinformation is a key reason people like Shaibu face stigma and discrimination.

    For Shaibu, this presented an opportunity. When Shaibu was first diagnosed, “nobody talked about viral hepatitis,” he said. “The only information that prevailed was false information. I thought that if I needed to raise awareness to people, it’s very easy to meet many people on social media.  
    Today, Shaibu uses multiple digital platforms and also speaks at conferences, schools and universities to raise awareness about the importance of getting vaccinated against the disease as well as getting tested and treated. 

    Credit: WHO / Vicky Markolefa  

    Caption: Shaibu Issa looks at an old photograph of his brother Latifu Dini, who passed away due to liver cancer resulting from chronic hepatitis B. 

    Since Shaibu was not vaccinated as a child against hepatitis B due to the vaccine not being available where he lived, he also works to educate parents about the importance of vaccinating infants at birth, as recommended by WHO.  

    A national plan to tackle hepatitis  

    To respond to the hepatitis burden in Tanzania, the Ministry of Health with support from WHO, developed the Integrated Health Sector HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections National Strategic Plan, which aligns to the WHO Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs strategies 2022-2030.  In 2023, the country also launched a new integrated HIV and hepatitis programme known as the National AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Hepatitis Control Program. This programme now plans, budgets and implements activities for each of the diseases in unison. 

    “We recognize the immense dedication of advocates like Shaibu, who are at the forefront of this battle against hepatitis in Tanzania,” said Dr Charles Sagoe-Moses, WHO Representative in Tanzania. “The ongoing collaboration between the Ministry of Health, WHO, and local advocates is critical to reducing the burden of hepatitis and achieving a world where no one suffers in silence.” 

    In addition, the Ministry of Health has updated integrated HIV and hepatitis guidelines and is continuing to increase awareness about viral hepatitis through mass, print and social media engagement, including through World Hepatitis Day activities.  

    The Ministry of Health is also providing hepatitis vaccination and treatment for at risk populations, such as, people who inject drugs, people with multiple sexual partners, healthcare workers, people living with chronic liver and kidney disease and diabetes, and immunosuppressed individuals, including people living with HIV. 

    With support from advocates like Shaibu, as well as efforts by the Ministry of Health, in partnership with WHO, the country is committed to fighting hepatitis. For Shaibu, this would be his dream.  

    “My main goal is to make Tanzania, Africa and the world free of hepatitis by encouraging people to get tested and to be vaccinated, but also those who are already infected to access timely treatment,” he said. 

    ———–

    Do you want to receive the latest news on vaccines and immunization? Click here to subscribe to the Global Immunization Newsletter.

    “,”datePublished”:”2025-03-18T17:50:53.0000000+00:00″,”image”:”https://www.who.int/images/default-source/departments/immunization-ivb/feature-stories/tanzania/hepatitisb–advocate-tanzania-who.jpg?sfvrsn=eeffaad4_3″,”publisher”:{“@type”:”Organization”,”name”:”World Health Organization: WHO”,”logo”:{“@type”:”ImageObject”,”url”:”https://www.who.int/Images/SchemaOrg/schemaOrgLogo.jpg”,”width”:250,”height”:60}},”dateModified”:”2025-03-18T17:50:53.0000000+00:00″,”mainEntityOfPage”:”https://www.who.int/news-room/feature-stories/detail/one-man-s-dream-of-a-hepatitis-free-tanzania”,”@context”:”http://schema.org”,”@type”:”Article”};
    ]]>

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: New report calls for return of human remains – but UK museums lack the resources to act

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By William Carruthers, Lecturer, School of Philosophical, Historical, and Interdisciplinary Studies, University of Essex

    Shutterstock/David Herraez Calzada

    The display of human remains in museums has long been a contentious issue. Last week, the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Afrikan Reparations (APPG-AR) published a report on the African human remains collected by British museums during, and due to, colonialism and the slave trade.

    Introduced by the MP Bell Ribeiro-Addy (the APPG-AR’s chair), and produced by Afford (The African Foundation for Development), the publication of the report, Laying Ancestors to Rest, is another high-profile and meaningful intervention in an area where developments now seem inevitable.

    The report makes a number of recommendations. First, that the sale of human remains should be made illegal in the UK. It also suggests that the Human Tissue Act of 2004 should be amended to make stipulations about remains older than 100 years.

    This would include banning their public display without consent from the Human Tissue Authority and ensuring that museums obtain a licence from the authority for their storage. It’s further recommended that the UK parliament’s culture, media and sport committee should launch an inquiry into restitution.

    Laying Ancestors to Rest should be welcomed. It seems likely to be successful in achieving at least one of its recommendations. Calling for a ban on the trade in human remains in Britain, as the report does, is not particularly controversial.

    However, the report’s blanket approach towards banning the display of human remains without consent is, in the present environment, unlikely to succeed.

    This article is part of our State of the Arts series. These articles tackle the challenges of the arts and heritage industry – and celebrate the wins, too.

    The report itself hints at the reasons for this. The success of its recommendations rests on the financial health of the UK’s museum landscape. Resources matter, not least in terms of the relationships which those resources allow museums to build.

    Instead of a blanket response, developments in this area are likely to be piecemeal – both due to the significant effort required to carry out the task effectively and the limited resources many museums have to do so. In that sense, it is unclear whether calling for a blanket ban now is all that useful, other than as a wake-up call.

    This point is not to absolve museums for their historical part in this situation. It is though, to argue that work in understanding the collections of human remains held by British museums – where they come from, who they might belong to – has, at times (and certainly not in all circumstances), been happening. It is also to clarify what the often slow-paced norms of effective understanding and restitution are.

    In 2020, for example, the University of Oxford’s Pitt-Rivers Museum removed its well-known collection of tsantsa (shrunken heads) from display. The removal happened with a view to working with Shuar and Achuar delegates to decide on the best way forward with regard to the care and display of the human remains. That work continues.

    In 2020 the Pitt-Rivers Museum removed its well-known collection of shrunken heads from display.
    Shutterstock/John Wreford

    A few years earlier, Laura Peers, then curator of the Americas collections at the museum, wrote about the slow, quiet and bureaucratic process of returning a single femur “collected by a missionary as a medical curiosity, from an Indigenous nation with whom I have longstanding professional and personal relationships”.

    Such work is, when it happens, painstaking and careful. Even with the best of intentions, it is not a fast process

    Funding restitution

    The often-halting nature of that work is likely to continue. Museum professionals – particularly newer museum professionals – know that this work has to happen and are, I would argue, in large part invested in doing it.

    In a contemporary funding environment marked by almost continuous cuts, even the most dedicated staff will find their actions curtailed. They may, in some cases, be able to remove remains from display, as the report recommends (and as the Pitt Rivers Museum has done).

    However, securing consent for the limited display of mummified Egyptian bodies, for instance, will be challenging. Without funding, it is difficult to build the relationships necessary for conversations about consent, ownership and restitution.

    In his afterword to the report, Dan Hicks of the University of Oxford writes that “this is a time of immense hope and optimism for British museums”. The problem is that that hope in part rests on the funding that he also admits has been subject to “austerity and swingeing cuts”.

    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    The contradiction is not difficult to see – particularly when the report’s recommendations are similar to the 2018 one written for French collections by cultural researchers Felwine Sarr and Bénédicte Savoy.

    The Restitution of African Cultural Heritage: Toward a New Relational Ethics, which was commissioned by the French president, Emmanuel Macron, has been widely read. It has catalysed thinking beyond current international legal norms when it comes to restitution.

    Yet progress on the goal of restitution even in France has been slow, at least in part due to the time involved in building the new relationships that the report calls for. There is also the question of whether attitudes regarding restitution within African countries are consistent. By February 2024, France had returned only 26 objects to Benin and one (a sword) to Senegal.

    Worse still, the legislative picture across British collections remains complex. Collections such as the Pitt Rivers Museum have been able to move on restitution because they are university collections. As such, they are subject to different legislation than “national” collections such as the British Museum or the V&A, which were established by acts of parliament and are funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

    As the V&A’s director, Tristram Hunt, recently wrote, the UK’s national museums remain in “debilitating stasis” on restitution. Hunt argues that this is the case because these collections are hampered by the proscriptions of the 1983 National Heritage Act. That act – by rule or by choice, dependent on your view – effectively forbids such collections from disposing of objects, including human remains.

    As Laying Ancestors to Rest recommends, this situation needs to change. The likelihood is, however, that any change will come more slowly and with more deliberation even than the report itself acknowledges is necessary.

    Progress on this issue is by no means impossible. But without real political will and without the money to back it up, a blanket approach to the display and restitution of human remains in British museums remains difficult to enforce.

    William Carruthers works for the University of Essex as Lecturer in Heritage.

    – ref. New report calls for return of human remains – but UK museums lack the resources to act – https://theconversation.com/new-report-calls-for-return-of-human-remains-but-uk-museums-lack-the-resources-to-act-252547

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Cequence Security Achieves AWS WAF Ready Designation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTA CLARA, Calif., March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cequence Security, a pioneer in API security and bot management, today announced that it is now an Amazon Web Services (AWS) Web Application Firewall (WAF) Ready Partner. This designation recognizes Cequence’s solution as validated by AWS Partner Network (APN) Solutions Architects and seamlessly integrates with AWS WAF. AWS WAF, available across all AWS Regions, can be deployed directly from the AWS console, empowering organizations to strengthen their security posture with minimal effort.

    Being an AWS WAF Ready Partner differentiates Cequence as an APN member with a product that works with AWS WAF and is generally available for and fully supports AWS customers.

    AWS WAF Ready Partners help customers quickly identify easy-to-deploy solutions that can help detect, mitigate, and analyze some of the most common Internet threats and vulnerabilities.

    Securing web applications has never been more challenging. Fifty-five percent of organizations say protecting their web applications has become more difficult over the past two years, while 93% have faced at least one attack on their web applications and APIs in the past 12 months. This threat landscape is only growing as attackers increasingly harness generative artificial intelligence (AI) to automate and refine their methods.

    Today’s organizations face a range of security challenges:

    • Traditional application attacks: Exploits targeting known vulnerabilities, including OWASP Top 10 risks, along with malware and denial-of-service attacks that disrupt application availability.
    • Unmanaged APIs: Cloud-native architectures and interconnected applications have made APIs prime targets for injection attacks, misconfigurations, and other exploits—often bypassing traditional defenses like WAFs entirely, leaving them even more exposed.
    • Bot and fraud attacks: AI-driven bots are being used at scale for scraping, inventory hoarding, and account fraud, making detection and mitigation increasingly difficult.

    Seamlessly securing APIs and applications
    Cequence’s Unified API Protection (UAP) platform enhances existing WAFs and API gateways by providing proactive security tailored to modern API architectures. Unlike traditional security tools, UAP offers real-time visibility into both managed and unmanaged APIs, detecting vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, and anomalous behavior to prevent threats before they escalate.

    By unifying API discovery, compliance enforcement, and threat protection, UAP helps organizations adopt a proactive security posture, safeguarding critical applications, preventing fraud, ensuring compliance, and seamlessly integrating with existing infrastructure.

    “Achieving the AWS WAF Ready designation strengthens our ability to ensure that AWS customers continue to receive advanced API security solutions,” said Ameya Talwalkar, CEO of Cequence. “While WAFs play a role in security, they are not sufficient to combat today’s sophisticated threats. Malicious bots and API-based attacks can bypass traditional defenses. Cequence provides AWS customers with comprehensive protection, addressing the critical security gaps that WAFs may miss.”

     Additional Resources: 

    About Cequence Security 
    Cequence is a pioneer in API security and bot management, protecting the applications and APIs that organizations depend on from attacks, business logic abuse, and fraud. Our unique Unified API Protection platform unites discovery, compliance, and protection capabilities, providing unmatched real-time security in the face of sophisticated threats. Demonstrating value in minutes rather than days or weeks, Cequence offers a flexible deployment model that requires no app instrumentation or modification. Cequence solutions scale to meet the needs of the largest and most demanding private and public sector organizations, protecting more than 8 billion daily API interactions and 3 billion user accounts. To learn more, visit www.cequence.ai.

    The MIL Network –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: UPAY Inc. – AML GO invited to Crypto Assets Regulation & Compliance Conference

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — UPAY Inc. (“UPAY” or the “Company”) (OTCQB: UPYY) is delighted to announce UPAY Inc.’s (“UPAY” or the “Company”) (OTCQB: UPYY) South African subsidiary, AML GO (Pty) Ltd (“AML GO”), was invited as special guests to the prestigious Crypto Assets Regulation & Compliance Conference. The event took place on March 12 and 13, 2025, at the Indaba Hotel in Fourways, Johannesburg.​

    Organized by Trade Conferences International, the conference focused on regulatory governance, compliance, and risk within the crypto assets ecosystem. The conference brought together crypto asset and blockchain providers, financial intermediaries, transaction processors, trading platforms, payment and wallet providers, government representatives, and banks to engage in a collaborative learning process.

    As special guests, the AML GO team engaged in wide range of topics, including how digital assets are transforming financial markets, regulation and reporting frameworks, risks faced by banks, anti-money laundering (AML) measures, cross-border financial flows, compliance issues, and technology. AML Go’s participation highlighted its commitment to staying at the forefront of compliance advancements and assisting financial institutions to navigate the complexities of digital asset regulation.​

    UPAY Inc. recognizes the significant role AML GO plays in fostering compliance excellence and remains committed to supporting industry-wide initiatives that drive financial security and regulatory best practices. The Company looks forward to continuing its engagement with the crypto assets community and strengthening its contributions to the financial services sector.​

    About AML GO

    AML GO (Pty) Ltd is a leading provider of advanced AML screening and compliance solutions, dedicated to helping financial institutions and businesses mitigate risk and adhere to stringent regulatory requirements. Specializing in anti-money laundering (AML) compliance, credit vetting, and risk management tools, AML GO delivers cutting-edge solutions that enhance operational integrity and ensure compliance with evolving financial regulations. As a subsidiary of UPAY Inc., AML GO continues to innovate and drive excellence in the financial services sector.​ For more information, visit www.amlgo.co.za

    About UPAY

    UPAY is a US publicly traded holding company at the forefront of the fintech industry. By investing in innovative technologies, UPAY delivers comprehensive Financial Software Platforms that offer full system automation, intelligent data solutions, and an enhanced user experience. The Company is dedicated to bridging the gap between clients and consumers in an evolving financial ecosystem, ensuring high engagement and lasting impact. For more information, visit www.upaytechnology.com and connect with us on LinkedIn and Facebook.​

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” as defined under applicable securities laws. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements because of new information, future events, or other circumstances. No information in this publication should be interpreted as any indication whatsoever of the Company’s future revenues, results of operations, or stock price.

    Contact Information

    UPAY INC.​

    Media Relations​: info@upaytechnology.com

    The MIL Network –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Aid should never be used as a political tool: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Aid should never be used as a political tool: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Gaza.

    Thank you President and thank you to USG Fletcher for his sobering briefing. 

    I also want to thank Algeria and Somalia for calling this meeting – an initiative which the UK fully supports considering the alarming humanitarian situation.

    President, this meeting comes at a critical moment. 

    As my Foreign Secretary has said, the civilian casualties from Israeli strikes overnight are appalling.

    I want to be clear, a return to fighting will only result in the deaths of further Palestinian civilians, Israeli hostages and IDF soldiers. 

    This conflict cannot be resolved through military means.

    We want to see the ceasefire re-established as soon as possible.

    The humanitarian situation in Gaza was already catastrophic. 

    After 17 days, Israel continues to block all aid entering Gaza. Crossing points have been shut off. Bakeries are closing. Hospitals and desalination plants are running on generators that could stop at any moment.

    This is horrifying and unacceptable.

    Humanitarian aid should never be used as a political tool. 

    We are calling for the following urgent steps to bring this terrifying situation back from the brink.

    First, we call for the protection of civilians, and for safe, rapid, unimpeded humanitarian access. 

    We call on Israel to fulfil its international obligations and allow for a rapid and unhindered resurgence in the flow of aid. 

    This includes the supply of items such as medical equipment, shelter items, and water and sanitation equipment, essential to meet humanitarian and early recovery needs in Gaza, but which remain restricted. 

    Failure to deliver this not only risks undoing the vital humanitarian progress made during phase one of the ceasefire agreement; it also risks violating international humanitarian law.

    Second, we urge all parties to return urgently to dialogue and to implement the ceasefire agreement in full, including scaling up aid and releasing the 59 hostages who have been cruelly held by Hamas for over 500 days and have endured unimaginable suffering. 

    For Israel to be secure, these terrorists can have no role in Gaza’s future. But cutting off aid and resuming the fighting is not a means to this end.

    Finally, we reiterate that civilians of Gaza who have suffered so much must be allowed to return to their homes and rebuild their lives.

    Colleagues, we urge all parties to return to the ceasefire deal and get back to the path of peace. 

    A negotiated two-state solution is the best way to ensure long-term security for both Israelis and Palestinians.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Hosts First-Ever Ramadan Iftar Night in Dubai for MENA Community, Raising Funds for 100,000 Meals

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, hosted a Ramadan Iftar night, gathering blockchain pioneers, crypto investors, and industry experts for an evening of networking, collaboration, and reflection. The event highlighted the spirit of Ramadan while aligning with Bitget’s broader initiative to donate 100,000 meals to vulnerable communities. The event is co-hosted with Cypher Capital and IO.net.

    The Iftar night provided a platform for meaningful dialogue among attendees, who broke their fast together in a warm, inclusive atmosphere. Discussions centered on blockchain innovation, market trends, and opportunities for collective growth, showing the blockchain industry’s potential to drive social impact.

    Bitget initially pledged 10,000 meals, and extended donation matches to all donations, a dollar for a dollar to double the efforts of the community. With the generous support, the gathering reflected the essence of Ramadan, emphasizing compassion, reflection, and collective growth. Guests enjoyed a traditional Iftar meal while exploring collaborative opportunities and discussing the future of blockchain technology. By fostering connections among blockchain enthusiasts, Bitget aimed to highlight the importance of community-driven initiatives in advancing innovation and inclusivity within the crypto ecosystem.

    The Iftar night event aligns with Bitget’s 100,000-meal donation initiative. Attendees contributed through donations, with Bitget matching each dollar raised.

    “Ramadan is a time for reflection, gratitude, and giving back. By bringing together leaders, investors and experts from the blockchain space and supporting those in need through our meal donation program, we aim to embody the values of compassion and unity,” said Vugar Usi Zade, COO of Bitget. “We’re committed to doing our part, and we’ll keep pushing to help as many people as we can—not just during Ramadan, but every chance we get.”

    The 100,000-meal initiative targets vulnerable communities in regions facing significant challenges, aiming to alleviate hunger during the holy month. To achieve the fundraising target, Bitget has introduced initiatives encouraging participation from users, VIP clients, and influencer partners. Exclusive auctions featuring memorabilia from partnerships with La Liga also go towards the fundraiser.

    Bitget’s Ramadan Iftar Night celebrated cultural traditions and promoted popularization of technology and humanitarian efforts. In a total so far, Bitget has raised 42604 meals aiming to surpass 100,000 anticipating auction results and events upcoming in Jakarta and Malaysia. The blockchain industry continues to evolve, Bitget remains steadfast in its pledge to empower communities, drive innovation, and create lasting positive impact.

    Media partners: Bitcoinist | Blockchain Reporter | Bitcoin.com | Coinedition | Coingape | Crypto news | Crypto Daily | Cryptopolitan | Cryptorank | Mpost | NewsBTC | UAE news 247

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 100 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a world-class multi-chain crypto wallet that offers an array of comprehensive Web3 solutions and features including wallet functionality, token swap, NFT Marketplace, DApp browser, and more.

    Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet
    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

    Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f05ecca2-3fbe-45f9-8477-2fc955aa7d3d

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/05b3adea-092e-4ffa-92ca-0ebf42710bef

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7c2ba72c-9d67-43ed-ab12-6ee7aa378aaf

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/63374c99-9629-4953-b319-86f8ef988469

    The MIL Network –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why has the Gaza ceasefire collapsed? Why has the US launched aistrikes in Yemen? Middle East expert Q&A

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Scott Lucas, Professor of International Politics, Clinton Institute, University College Dublin

    For the past few weeks, the world’s attention has been focused on the prospect of a ceasefire in Ukraine and the diplomatic manoeuvrings that has entailed. But while Donald Trump has been focusing on negotiations with Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky, the ceasefire deal in Gaza he had a hand in getting over the line appears to have fallen apart.

    After negotiations with Hamas broke down, Israel cut off all humanitarian aid to Gaza at the beginning of March, then cut off power, and overnight on March 17 launched massive airstrikes across the Strip, killing more than 400 people.

    Meanwhile, the US has responded to attacks on shipping in the Red Sea with massive airstrikes against the Iran-back Houthi rebels. This has been widely interpreted as a message to Iran’s leaders from Trump, who is putting pressure on the Iranian government to negotiate a new nuclear deal to replace the one struck in 2013 which was rejected by the US president in 2018.

    Scott Lucas, a Middle East expert at University College Dublin, addresses some of the key issues involved.

    Do the Israeli airstrikes on Gaza mean the ceasefire deal is officially dead?

    Yes. This is the end of the two-month ceasefire that paused Israel’s open-ended war on Gaza. The six-week phase one of the ceasefire officially ended on March 1, after some hostages held by Hamas were exchanged for some Palestinian detainees in Israeli prisons.

    There never was a possibility of a phase two. Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, facing pressure from hard-right groups inside and close to his government and still vowing to destroy Hamas, was never going to accept a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and Hamas remaining in the Strip. Hamas was never going to accept eviction – and there was no prospect of agreement on a successor Palestinian government for Gaza.

    So Netanyahu, also being pressed by families of the remaining 59 hostages, sought an extension of phase one with the return of all those dead or alive. Hamas, whose last leverage is retaining those hostages, demanded a phase two.

    Israel cut off humanitarian assistance earlier this month. Returning to the aerial assault was the next step. The renewal of ground attacks will be next.



    Read more:
    Gaza ceasefire deal looks doomed as Israel blockades Strip and bars entry of humanitarian aid

    What is Israel’s long-term plan for Gaza?

    There is no long-term plan at the moment. Netanyahu needs a short-term return of the hostages to escape his political bind, not to mention his ongoing bribery trial.

    Israel’s hard right – and Donald Trump – may envisage a depopulated Gaza under Israeli military rule. But all such ambitions will be suspended as the death and destruction continues.

    What has been overshadowed is the possibility of a long-term plan in the West Bank, where Israel has been stepping up military operations and violence is escalating. As the world watches Gaza, the Israelis may seek to expand and consolidate their de facto rule through settlements in a programme which will be tantamount to annexation.

    Donald Trump saw the Gaza ceasefire as his deal. How will he react to Netanyahu breaking it?

    Trump was happy to grab the immediate, self-proclaimed glory of “peacemaker” for phase one.

    Since there was no possibility of being a peacemaker for a phase two, Trump set this aside for the fantasy of Trump Gaza and his golden statue on the “Riviera of the Middle East”.

    Now he will be content to blame and bash Hamas.

    Meanwhile the US has been attacking the Houthis in Yemen. What is Trump’s strategy here?

    The airstrikes are, in part at least, Trump speaking to the American public. He poses as a “peacemaker” at times, but he enjoys playing the tough guy. And, at a time when economic issues and Musk-inflicted chaos may dent his approval rating, he could rally support with the bombing.

    At the same time, Trump has carried out his standard ploy with Iran’s leaders: give me a photo opportunity for the “art of the deal” or I’ll “rain hell on you”.

    A direct strike on Tehran would unleash repercussions throughout the Middle East. Even though Iran has been weakened in the past year, it still has the capability to strike Americans in the region.

    Sign up to receive our weekly World Affairs Briefing newsletter from The Conversation UK. Every Thursday we’ll bring you expert analysis of the big stories in international relations.

    So the low-cost option is to fire on Iran’s ally in Yemen. Some officials in the Trump administration will favour this as a way of putting pressure on the Iranians ahead of any potential talks on Tehran’s nuclear programme. Others will see this as part of backing for Israel amid the open-ended war in Gaza, and still others could endorse the step as a bolstering of Saudi Arabia and the UAE. And there is always the argument that the strikes could deter Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea.

    The Iranian response has been fairly muted. Why is that?

    Iran’s leadership is embroiled in a combination of economic, social and regional problems, perhaps the most serious situation since the mass protests after the disputed 2009 presidential election.

    Tehran’s projection of power has been shaken by the fall of its ally Bashar al-Assad in Syria, the decimation of Hezbollah in Lebanon last year, and an eroding position in Iraq, where Iran’s influence over the government of prime minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani is looking increasingly tenuous.

    The economy is in a parlous state. In early 2018, the exchange rate was 45,000 Iranian rial to the dollar. Now it is approaching 1 million to the dollar.

    Inflation is officially at 36%, but is far higher in reality, particularly for food and other essentials. Unemployment is rising and infrastructure is crumbling. There are shortages of electricity in a country that is the world’s seventh-largest oil producer.

    Having faced the “Woman, life, freedom” protests since September 2022, the regime is caught between making accommodations to public discontent and cracking down on rights. Some political prisoners have been released, but authorities are pursuing a draconian campaign against women who dare not to wear the hijab.

    Hardliners are trying to curb the centrist government, forcing out the economy minister, Abdolnaser Hemmati, and the foreign minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, who was central in the 2015 agreement that restricted Iran from developing nuclear weapons. Pursuing both that domestic campaign and confrontation abroad is a tall order.

    What does this mean for a new nuclear deal with Iran?

    Some Trump advisers may believe they can use the sledgehammer in Yemen to bludgeon Iran to the negotiating table and Trump’s photo opportunity with the supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, or Iran’s president, Masoud Pezeshkian.

    Good luck with that. Iran may be weakened, but Khamenei is not going to negotiate at the point of an American weapon. Responding to news of a Trump letter to Tehran that threatened, “There are two ways Iran can be handled: militarily, or you make a deal,” last week Khamenei dismissed the idea of talking with the Trump administration.

    He said: “When we know they won’t honour it, what’s the point of negotiating? Therefore, the invitation to negotiate … is a deception of public opinion.”

    Recent history is instructive. In 2013, Khamenei finally relented to nuclear deal talks when told by the then president, Hassan Rouhani, of an imminent economic collapse if Iran held out. More than five years later, however, the Iranian leadership was prepared to withstand Trump’s “maximum pressure” and withdrawal from the nuclear agreement.

    Iran’s idea for talks was based on a cautious process beginning with confidence-building measures on both sides. But a US approach predicated on bombing and bluster has effectively sidelined that.

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

    – ref. Why has the Gaza ceasefire collapsed? Why has the US launched aistrikes in Yemen? Middle East expert Q&A – https://theconversation.com/why-has-the-gaza-ceasefire-collapsed-why-has-the-us-launched-aistrikes-in-yemen-middle-east-expert-qanda-252532

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    March 19, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: New Vulnerability in GitHub Copilot and Cursor: How Hackers Can Weaponize Code Agents Through Compromised Rule Files

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TEL AVIV, Israel, March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Pillar Security, a pioneering company in AI security, discovered a significant vulnerability affecting GitHub Copilot and Cursor – the world’s leading AI-powered code editors.

    This new attack vector, dubbed the “Rule Files Backdoor,” allows attackers to covertly manipulate these trusted AI platforms into generating malicious code that appears legitimate to developers.

    This newly discovered attack vector exploits hidden configuration mechanisms within these tools, enabling attackers to inject malicious code suggestions that blend seamlessly into legitimate AI-generated recommendations and bypass human scrutiny and conventional security checks.

    Unlike traditional code injection attacks that target specific vulnerabilities, “Rule Files Backdoor” represents a significant risk by weaponizing the AI itself as an attack vector, effectively turning the developer’s most trusted assistant into an unwitting accomplice.

    “This new attack vector demonstrates that rule files can instruct AI assistants to subtly modify generated code in ways that introduce security vulnerabilities while appearing completely legitimate to developers,” said Ziv Karliner, CTO & Co-Founder of Pillar Security. “Developers have no reason to suspect their AI assistant is compromised, as the malicious code blends seamlessly with legitimate suggestions. This represents a fundamental shift in how we must think about supply chain security.”

    Key Findings and Implications:

    • Widespread Industry Exposure: The vulnerability affects Cursor and GitHub Copilot, which collectively serve millions of developers and are integrated into countless enterprise development workflows worldwide.
    • Minimal Attack Requirements: Execution requires no special privileges, administrative access, or sophisticated tools–attackers need only manipulate configuration files within targeted repositories.
    • Undetectable Infiltration: Malicious code suggestions blend seamlessly with legitimate AI-generated code, bypassing both manual code reviews and automated security scanning tools.
    • Data Exfiltration Capabilities: Well-crafted malicious rules can direct AI tools to add code that leaks sensitive information while appearing legitimate, including environment variables, database credentials, API keys, and user data–all under the guise of “following best practices.”
    • Long-Term Persistence & Supply Chain Risk: Once a compromised rule file is incorporated into a project repository, it affects all future code generation, with poisoned rules often surviving project forking, creating vectors for supply chain attacks that affect downstream dependencies.

    Who is Affected?
    A 2024 GitHub survey found that nearly all enterprise developers (97%) are using Generative AI coding tools. According to Pillar, because these rule files are shared and reused across multiple projects, one compromised file can lead to widespread vulnerabilities. The research identified several propagation vectors:

    1. Developer Forums and Communities: Malicious actors sharing “helpful” rule files that unwitting developers incorporate
    2. Open-Source Contributions: Pull requests to popular repositories that include poisoned rule files
    3. Project Templates: Starter kits containing poisoned rules that spread to new projects
    4. Corporate Knowledge Bases: Internal rule repositories that, once compromised, affect all company projects

    Mitigation

    To mitigate this risk, we recommend the following technical countermeasures:

    1. Audit Existing Rules: Review all rule files in your repositories for potential malicious instructions, focusing on invisible Unicode characters and unusual formatting
    2. Implement Validation Processes: Establish review procedures specifically for AI configuration files, treating them with the same scrutiny as executable code
    3. Deploy Detection Tools: Implement tools that can identify suspicious patterns in rule files and monitor AI-generated code for indicators of compromise
    4. Review AI-Generated Code: Pay special attention to unexpected additions like external resource references, unusual imports, or complex expressions

    Following responsible disclosure practices, Pillar alerted both Cursor (February 26) and GitHub (March 12), who responded that users bear responsibility for reviewing AI-generated code suggestions.

    “Given the growing reliance on AI coding assistants within development workflows, we believe it’s essential to raise public awareness about potential security implications. We have reached an era where AI coding assistants must be regarded as critical infrastructure,” said Karliner.

    Link to the full report: www.pillar.security/blog/new-vulnerability-in-github-copilot-and-cursor-how-hackers-can-weaponize-code-agents

    About Pillar Security

    Pillar is a unified, end-to-end AI security platform that accelerates AI initiatives by establishing robust security foundations across the entire AI lifecycle. By embedding security from development through runtime, Pillar enables organizations to ship AI-powered applications and agents with confidence while managing critical business risks.

    The platform’s comprehensive capabilities—including AI fingerprinting, asset inventory, and deep integration with development and data platforms—create a secure foundation that prevents data breaches and ensures compliance. Through tailored adversarial AI testing and adaptive guardrails aligned with industry standards, Pillar removes security bottlenecks, allowing teams to innovate and deploy AI faster without compromising on security.

    The MIL Network –

    March 19, 2025
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