NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom vows to keep fighting as federal court rejects Trump’s military overreach

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jun 19, 2025

    What you need to know: The Ninth Circuit rejected Trump’s sweeping claim that he can federalize the National Guard for any reason and avoid judicial scrutiny, even as it stayed an emergency district court order. This is a critical check on presidential overreach and confirmation that the President is not above the law.

    SAN FRANCISCO – Governor Gavin Newsom expressed disappointment that the Ninth Circuit is allowing the President to retain control of the California National Guard for now, but welcomed the Ninth Circuit’s rejection of Donald Trump’s sweeping claims that he could federalize the California National Guard as he alone sees fit and without having to answer to a court.  Governor Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta remain committed to holding President Trump accountable for using the military as domestic law enforcement in violation of federal law.

    “The court rightly rejected Trump’s claim that he can do whatever he wants with the National Guard and not have to explain himself to a court. The President is not a king and is not above the law. We will press forward with our challenge to President Trump’s authoritarian use of U.S. military soldiers against citizens.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Press releases, Recent news

    Recent news

    Jun 19, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring “Juneteenth National Freedom Day: A Day of Observance” in the State of California.The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONJuly 4 is not the only…

    Jun 18, 2025

    News What you need to know: The Trump administration announced today that is has directed the national suicide prevention hotline to stop offering specialized support to LGBTQ callers. California continues to support this population.  SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin…

    Jun 18, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Dina El-Tawansy, of San Leandro, has been appointed Director of the California Department of Transportation. El-Tawansy has been District 4 Director at the California Department of…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Skunk Captured in Kaka‘ako

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    Skunk Captured in Kaka‘ako

    Posted on Jun 19, 2025 in Main

    NR25-15
    June 19, 2025

    HONOLULU – A live skunk was captured last night at Kaka‘ako Waterfront Park by Honolulu police after they responded to a call reporting that a skunk was running around the park near Keawe St. Police contacted the Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture and three agriculture inspectors were dispatched at about 10:30 p.m. When the inspectors arrived at the scene, police officers had contained the skunk in a plastic trash bin. Inspectors took custody of the skunk and it has been humanely euthanized to test for the rabies virus.

    The origin of the skunk is not known; however, the park is adjacent to Honolulu Harbor where skunks have been previously captured after apparently hitchhiking aboard cargo ships. Skunks were spotted and captured by stevedores at Honolulu Harbor in February 2018, January 2021, July 2021 and June 2022.

    On Maui, a live skunk was captured at Kahului Harbor in December 2020 and one was captured at a trucking company in August 2018. Also on Maui, the Department of Land and Natural Resources captured a skunk at Kanahā Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary in August 2022. In February 2023, a Hilo resident caught a skunk in a mongoose trap. All previously captured skunks have tested negative for rabies.

    Skunks are prohibited in Hawai‘i. They are avid egg-eaters and would pose a threat to Hawai‘i’s native ground-nesting birds if they become established. They inhabit the mainland U.S., Canada, South America, Mexico and other parts of the world. In the U.S., they are recognized as one of the four primary wild carriers of rabies, a fatal viral disease of mammals that is often transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. Hawai‘i is the only state in the U.S. and one of the few places in the world that is free of rabies.

    Sightings or captures of illegal and invasive species should be reported to the state’s toll-free Pest Hotline at 808-643-PEST (7378).

    # # #

    Skunk Found at Kaka‘ako Waterfront Park

    Skunk found at Kaka‘ako Waterfront Park

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News release on skunk captured at Kaka‘ako Waterfront Park

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    News release on skunk captured at Kaka‘ako Waterfront Park

    Posted on Jun 19, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

        

         

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
     GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

    DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

    ʻOIHANA MAHIʻAI

     

    SHARON HURD
    CHAIRPERSON

    KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

     

    DEAN M. MATSUKAWA
    DEPUTY TO THE CHAIRPERSON

    KA HOPE LUNA HOʻOKELE

     

     

    SKUNK CAPTURED AT KAKA‘AKO WATERFRONT PARK

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                       

    June 19, 2025

    NR25-15

    HONOLULU – A live skunk was captured last night at Kaka‘ako Waterfront Park by Honolulu police after they responded to a call reporting that a skunk was running around the park near Keawe St. Police contacted the Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture and three agriculture inspectors were dispatched at about 10:30 p.m. When the inspectors arrived at the scene, police officers had contained the skunk in a plastic trash bin. Inspectors took custody of the skunk and it has been humanely euthanized to test for the rabies virus.

    The origin of the skunk is not known; however, the park is adjacent to Honolulu Harbor where skunks have been previously captured after apparently hitchhiking aboard cargo ships. Skunks were spotted and captured by stevedores at Honolulu Harbor in February 2018, January 2021, July 2021 and June 2022.

    On Maui, a live skunk was captured at Kahului Harbor in December 2020 and one was captured at a trucking company in August 2018. Also on Maui, the Department of Land and Natural Resources captured a skunk at Kanahā Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary in August 2022. In February 2023, a Hilo resident caught a skunk in a mongoose trap. All previously captured skunks have tested negative for rabies.

    Skunks are prohibited in Hawai‘i. They are avid egg-eaters and would pose a threat to Hawai‘i’s native ground-nesting birds if they become established. They inhabit the mainland U.S., Canada, South America, Mexico and other parts of the world. In the U.S., they are recognized as one of the four primary wild carriers of rabies, a fatal viral disease of mammals that is often transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. Hawai‘i is the only state in the U.S. and one of the few places in the world that is free of rabies.

     

    Sightings or captures of illegal and invasive species should be reported to the state’s toll-free Pest Hotline at 808-643-PEST (7378).

    # # #

    Attachments: Two photos of the skunk

    Media Contact:
    Janelle Saneishi
    Public Information Officer
    Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture
    Phone: 808-973-9560
    Cell: 808-341-5528
    Email:     [email protected]
    Website:     http://hdoa.hawaii.gov

    Confidentiality Notice:  This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and/or privileged information.  Any review, use, disclosure, or distribution by unintended recipients is prohibited.  If you are not the intended recipient(s), please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 2025-71 AG ANNE LOPEZ CONCLUDES MAUI WILDFIRE ANALYSIS

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    2025-71 AG ANNE LOPEZ CONCLUDES MAUI WILDFIRE ANALYSIS

    Posted on Jun 19, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    Video of today’s news conference is on the Department of the Attorney General’s Facebook page – https://www.facebook.com/HawaiiAttorneyGeneral/videos/1206910971211978

     

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.

    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL

    KA ʻOIHANA O KA LOIO KUHINA

     

    ANNE LOPEZ

    ATTORNEY GENERAL

    LOIO KUHINA

     

     

    ATTORNEY GENERAL ANNE LOPEZ CONCLUDES INVESTIGATION INTO THE AUGUST 8, 2023 MAUI WILDFIRES

     

    News Release 2025-71

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                       

    June 19, 2025

     

    HONOLULU – Attorney General Anne Lopez today announced the conclusion of the Department of the Attorney General’s investigation of state and county government response to the August 2023 Lahaina Fire. Attorney General Lopez also announced the official transition of future wildfire analysis, mitigation and coordination efforts to the new state fire marshal and the Hawaiʻi Wildfire Management Organization (HWMO).

     

    “Shortly after the August 8, 2023 Maui wildfires, Governor Josh Green, M.D., and I agreed that understanding how the state and county agencies responded during and in the immediate aftermath was crucial to secure the safety of the residents and visitors now and into the future,” said Attorney General Lopez. “The Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI), part of UL Research Institutes, was the most capable organization that could provide the state with an objective, evidence-based understanding of the response of state and county agencies and provide recommendations and best practices for Hawaiʻi going forward. FSRI has done just that.”

     

    On April 17, 2024, the Department released FSRI’s Lahaina Fire Comprehensive Timeline Report (Phase 1) that provided a minute-by-minute accounting of state and county

     

    actions. On September 13, 2024, FSRI’s Lahaina Fire Incident Analysis Report (Phase 2) was released, which incorporated a science- and evidence-based analysis of the events, including subjects such as preparedness efforts, weather and its impact to infrastructure, and other fires simultaneously occurring on Maui. This report included 84 findings, and 140 recommendations designed to mitigate the issues identified by FSRI and make recommendations to move forward. At the same time, the department released all of the images, audio and documents* received and prepared by FSRI, totaling 850 gigabytes of data.

     

    In January, FSRI’s Lahaina Fire Forward-Looking Report (Phase 3) was released. This report prioritized the 84 findings and 140 recommendations from the Phase 2 report, to improve Hawaiʻi’s ability to be better prepared for and respond to wildfires. Governor Green requested that FSRI identify its top 10 immediate priorities.

     

    The top two recommendations for actionable success were: (1) the state should engage HWMO to share a leadership role with the state in this effort, and (2) hire a state fire marshal to ensure continued work and long-term planning. HWMO has been engaged and has already started work. In the last legislative session, the governor introduced a bill to amend Hawaiʻi’s state fire marshal statute to empower the fire marshal to have more independence and broaden the fire marshal’s responsibilities. Following robust legislative hearings, the legislature passed H.B. 1064.

     

    “I am proud of the work that my department and FSRI have completed over the last two years,” said Attorney General Lopez. “I will now be handing off the work to State Fire Marshal Dori Booth and HWMO. I am fully confident in their ability to collaborate and lead state and county agencies, communities, and other nonprofits into a safer, healthier future.”

     

    Since the Phase Three report was released, FSRI has begun work in collaboration with the Maui Fire Department (MFD) and Kauaʻi Fire Department (KFD) to complete their Community Risk Assessment and Standards of Cover plans. These analyses will be conducted in cooperation with MFD and KFD alongside local residents and businesses and will ultimately identify where the relevant risks to the community are and how county fire departments can effectively address them. Following this work, a comprehensive Community Risk Reduction plan will be developed that provides realistic actions that can be taken by individuals, community organizations and governmental agencies to mitigate risk and increase resiliency.

     

    “Our role in the Lahaina fire independent analysis is complete and we have provided forward looking recommendations. Now we’re collectively transitioning from research to implementation for a more fire safe Hawai‘i,” said Derek Alkonis, Research Program Manager at FSRI. “UL Research Institutes and FSRI will continue supporting next steps in operational readiness and community risk assessment planning.”

     

    “We are proud to be part of this next chapter for Hawai‘i,” said Elizabeth Pickett, co-director of HWMO. “Our job now is to support the state in developing a cohesive wildfire strategy that brings together public agencies, private partners, and expertise from our academic and community partners — so that we’re all working in sync, informed by best practice, and building upon existing efforts and local knowledge. Some departments will be stepping into new roles, while others — who’ve been doing this work for decades — will finally get the support and alignment they’ve long needed. This is about learning together, building systems that last, and finally connecting our collective efforts into one coordinated path forward. Becoming a wildfire-ready and wildfire-resilient state starts with thoughtful, informed and collaborative planning. This is good governance at its best.”

     

    “We recommended HWMO because of their deep experience, trusted relationships, and ability to coordinate across agencies,” said Alkonis. “They’re embedded in Hawai‘i’s wildfire network and well-positioned to align efforts quickly. HWMO was selected in part because of its long-standing and ongoing leadership in the area of wildfire prevention and vegetation management — they’ve been deeply engaged in this work for years and are well-equipped to move the state forward on some of its most urgent needs. Their work complements the new State Fire Marshal’s Office and helps drive action on the priorities we identified — a strong example of collaborative leadership for wildfire resilience.”

     

    “It’s an honor to serve as Hawai‘i’s state fire marshal at this pivotal moment,” said Dori Booth. “The 10 wildfire priorities identified in the Phase Three report provide a critical foundation, and my role — as well as the work of the full office when it is in place — will both support those efforts and extend beyond them. We are building the State Fire Marshal’s Office from the ground up, with a focus on regulatory clarity, modernized codes and standards, and a legislative framework that strengthens long-standing efforts already underway, while also guiding future improvements identified through the statewide wildfire strategy now in development. I’m grateful to all of the agencies and partners contributing to this effort, and I look forward to working closely with the State Fire Council, county fire departments, HWMO, and others to ensure a coordinated, capable, and resilient fire safety system for Hawai‘i.”

     

    All of the images, audio and documents* included in the media database containing approximately 850 gigabytes of data can be found on the Department of the Attorney General’s Maui Wildfire Investigation page here.

     

    *Only images of the deceased and the personal identifying information of individuals were redacted.

     

    About Fire Safety Research Institute

    Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI), part of UL Research Institutes, strives to advance fire safety knowledge and strategies in order to create safer environments. Using advanced fire science, rigorous research, extensive outreach and education in collaboration with an international network of partners, the organization imparts stakeholders with knowledge, tools, and resources that enable them to make better, more fire safe decisions that ultimately save lives and property. To learn more, visit fsri.org. Follow FSRI on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

     

    About UL Research Institutes

    UL Research Institutes is a nonprofit research organization dedicated to advancing the UL public safety mission through scientific discovery and application. With best-in-class experts, we are the world’s premier safety science research organization. We conduct rigorous independent research, analyze safety data and explore at the edges of technology to be the first to uncover and act on emerging risks to human safety. To learn more, visit ul.org.

     

    # # #

     

    Media contacts:

    Dave Day

    Special Assistant to the Attorney General

    Office: 808-586-1284                                                  

    Email: [email protected]        

    Web: http://ag.hawaii.gov

     

    Toni Schwartz
    Public Information Officer
    Hawai‘i Department of the Attorney General
    Office: 808-586-1252
    Cell: 808-379-9249
    Email:     [email protected] 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/MYANMAR – With the onset of the rainy season, the situation of earthquake victims in Mandalay is becoming increasingly critical

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Mandalay (Agenzia Fides) – Three months after the devastating earthquake of March 28, 2025, the area around Mandalay in north-central Myanmar has been hit by heavy rains and thunderstorms for more than three weeks. Due to the persistent rains and aftershocks, some buildings already damaged by the earthquake have collapsed, causing further difficulties for the affected communities. This is according to a report by the Emergency Rescue Team for humanitarian assistance of the Archdiocese of Mandalay, sent to Fides, which states: “Many people are still spending the night outdoors or in makeshift shelters. Many houses have been damaged or destroyed by the earthquake, forcing families to sleep outdoors. In and around Mandalay, people are using tarpaulins, tents, or bamboo structures to protect themselves from the weather. Access to clean water, sanitation, and essential goods remains limited, and local assistance is barely sufficient to meet the urgent needs of the affected communities.”With the onset of the monsoon, the report states, the situation for earthquake victims is likely to become even more difficult: “The makeshift shelters, often made of tarpaulin or bamboo, will not be able to withstand heavy rains and winds. We fear that flooding and poor sanitation will increase the risk of waterborne diseases, especially for children and the elderly. Without urgent assistance in providing more permanent shelters and improving sanitation conditions, the safety and well-being of large segments of the population will be seriously threatened during the rainy season.”Meanwhile, the diocese has provided undamaged structures and church buildings or rooms to house the displaced. “Makeshift tents have been set up by earthquake victims at the St. Michael’s Parish complex in Mandalay. Among those affected are not only Catholics but also Buddhists. Their homes were severely damaged and have not yet been repaired,” the report states.Volunteers from the diocesan team are distributing humanitarian aid to the earthquake victims, others have taken charge of the repair of damaged church buildings, and still others are leading emergency relief teams. Priests and religious who share the fate of the refugees are still sleeping outside their usual residence, for example, in the courtyard of the archbishop’s complex. Fr. Peter Kyi Maung, secretary of the archdiocese, explains: “Our rooms were damaged by the earthquake and are not safe at the moment. We have made ourselves comfortable sleeping places with simple sheets and mosquito nets in the open areas of the complex. Until the necessary repairs are carried out, we have no choice but to continue living in these makeshift conditions. But all the volunteers and faithful are working hard every day to improve the situation bit by bit. The Lord gives us the strength to continue.” (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 19/6/2025)
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  • MIL-OSI Europe: The challenges of vaccine production in Africa

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Thursday, 19 June 2025

    World Health Organization (WHO)

    by Cosimo GrazianiAbuja (Agenzia Fides) – In recent weeks, a Lassa fever vaccine developed by local researchers in Nigeria has shown initial signs of effectiveness in combating the disease, which recorded 747 new cases and 142 deaths in the African country in the first half of 2025. This was announced by Simeon Agwale, CEO of the Nigerian pharmaceutical company Innovative Biotech. The vaccine was developed under license from the University of Melbourne, and test doses were produced in the United States until the necessary infrastructure is established in Nigeria.For the African giant, the possibility of developing and producing this vaccine locally represents a significant achievement for the country, especially considering that the mortality rate has increased compared to 2024. This progress reflects a positive trend regarding the development of vaccines across the continent.Several African countries are striving to increase domestic vaccine production, a priority that has gained importance since the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2022, the Partnerships for African Vaccine Manufacturing (PAVM) initiative was launched, aiming to produce 60 percent of Africa’s vaccine needs by 2040 (currently just 1 percent).The challenge of vaccine manufacturing is also related to the planning and development phase.According to the Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the African Union department that deals with disease prevention and control, in 2024 there were 25 vaccine projects across the continent: 15 in early stages of development, five with production capacity but no transfer capacity, and five with both production and transfer capacity. These figures are positive and are underpinned by the fact that there are at least a dozen active pharmaceutical companies across the continent in countries such as Nigeria, Morocco, Egypt, South Africa, and Algeria. All of these aspects contribute to strengthening the vaccine ecosystem, which has already borne fruit in the past, such as the Ebola vaccine developed after the 2013 outbreak in West Africa.Three major agreements to strengthen vaccine production capacity in Africa were recently announced, one signed in December 2024 and two in February of this year. The first involved the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, the African Development Bank, and the International Finance Corporation (IFC). It provided $45 million to VaxSen, a subsidiary of the Dakar-based Pasteur Institute in Senegal, a country also very active in vaccine research. The agreement was intended to strengthen production capacity, support the local supply chain, and create a strong vaccine distribution network, as envisioned in the African Union’s 2040 Strategy, of which PAVM is a part. In addition to its impact on healthcare, the agreement should also have an impact on the creation of skilled jobs, as the Pasteur Institute’s facilities are being expanded. The question arises whether this project will also be scaled back or even canceled following the Trump administration’s cuts in international cooperation in recent months.The first of the agreements signed in February concerns a $1.2 billion investment by Gavi-the Vaccine Alliance, a public-private partnership that supports vaccination projects worldwide, particularly for children. According to this agreement, the funds will be used to establish an RNA vaccine production platform in Africa, involving both private African companies such as the Egyptian company EVA Pharma and foreign companies such as the French company DNA Script and the Belgian companies Unizima and Quantoom Biosciences. A second agreement signed in February, however, is a purely African collaboration: Egyptian Biogeneric Pharma and South African Afrigen will expand the development of RNA vaccines to also strengthen continental expertise in manufacturing and application to combat diseases plaguing the continent.These initiatives were listed in the report published by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) in February this year. The Oslo-based foundation pointed out that among the issues that need to be resolved to develop a self-sufficient vaccine industry in Africa are problems with access to finance, production restrictions, tariffs, and customs duties and uncertain demand. The problem of the vaccine market in Africa has a major impact on the decisions of various vaccine companies around the world, also taking into account the fact that Africa’s population, especially its young population, will continue to grow strongly in the coming years. (Agenzia Fides, 19/6/2025)
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  • MIL-OSI Europe: From Mongolia to the Apostolic memory of Rome: The “ad limina Petri” pilgrimage of a small missionary Church

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Thursday, 19 June 2025

    by Gianni ValenteLess than three years ago, Peter’s successor came to visit them in Ulaanbaatar, even traveling in a wheelchair. Now, some of them have come from there to visit Peter, venerate his memory, and also greet his new Successor. In total, there are 26 people, including their bishop, the missionary Cardinal Giorgio Marengo. Among them are Cecilia, from the Prefecture’s media office, and Amanda, head of the spirituality house. Also present is Amaraa, a driver who does everything, and Zulaa, the cook. In addition, there is the treasurer Andrea, a Salesian brother from Vietnam, and the Korean priest Peter Hong with the 10 parishioners of St. Mary’s Church. A small remnant of the the Catholic community in Mongolia, almost 1,500 souls scattered among those 3.5 million fellow Buddhists, Muslims, and non-believers. From June 15 to 18, they made their Jubilee pilgrimage to the Eternal City, passing first through Turin and then arriving in Assisi. A journey to the apostolic sources of the Church of Rome, undertaken by the sons and daughters of a small and young missionary Church. Days tinged with gratitude, full of many surprising experiences with a reality in which they were also able to recognize something familiar.One does not become a Christian aloneBefore leaving Ulaanbaatar, the pilgrims had studied the history and treasures of Rome’s four papal basilicas, thus preparing themselves to better understand everything they were about to see and hear. Their first fraternal encounter in the Italian capital took place with the parish community of St. Jude Thaddeus, a Roman church dedicated to the apostle of the same name, located in the Appio Latino neighborhood and entrusted to Cardinal Giorgio Marengo. After Mass, they shared a communal lunch in a fraternal atmosphere. In that environment, the simple and profound faith of the Mongolian Catholics made itself felt with clear and direct words, full of apostolic authenticity. “To bring the message of Jesus to Mongolia,” explained Rufina Chamingerel, “the Church did not send parcels of books, but people, like living books.”Saint Peter came from Jerusalem to Rome, where he was martyred. “The Gospel comes from outside,” Pope Leo recalled last Saturday, evoking the figure of Saint Irenaeus, the great theologian who came from Asia Minor and died a martyr as Bishop of Lyon. Rufina echoed that same thing today: “We could not have converted to Christianity on our own if the missionaries had not arrived. The faith has reached us because missionaries, both men and women, have arrived here too.”On Sunday afternoon, led by Cardinal Marengo, the Mongolian pilgrims visited the Basilicas of St. John Lateran and St. Mary Major – Rome’s Bethlehem – which houses the relics of the Nativity of Jesus, the icon of the mary Salus Populi Romani, and now the remains of Pope Francis. “At one point,” Rufina recalled, “Pope Francis wanted to come to Mongolia in person. He, who was the Pope, wanted to visit us as a missionary. His presence among us moved us deeply and gave us great comfort in the faith.”Peter’s Tomb and Pope LeoDuring the visit to St. Peter’s Basilica, Cardinal Giorgio Marengo led his Mongolian friends to the tomb of the Apostle Peter to pray together. There, in the heart of a memory guarded for almost two thousand years, they savored the intimate spiritual affinity that unites the small Christian community of Mongolia with the heart of the Church of Rome and with the events recounted in the Acts of the Apostles: words, gestures, joys, and tribulations of those who saw Jesus and lived with Him. Rufina, like Cecilia and many other Mongolian converts, bears the name of a Roman martyr from the early centuries. Her name was suggested by a nun after having told her the story of the young Rufina, daughter of Senator Astrius, killed along with her sister Secunda during the persecutions of Emperor Valerian. What awakened in her the desire to be baptized, she recalls today, were the parish priest’s homilies: “He described a life and a reality that I felt I had longed for since I was a child. Now I am on my way. In the first steps, one experiences the enthusiasm of the beginning. Then, little by little, I realize that it is necessary to ask each day to begin again.” “We must live our daily lives in faith, with all their challenges. The important thing is that I perceive more and more clearly the dialogue between my daily life and faith.”Thus, in Mongolia too, the mystery of hearts that become Christians happens again by grace. In the young Church of the Apostolic Prefecture of Ulaanbaatar, a precious experience is quietly blossoming for the entire universal Church, which today more than ever needs to recognize itself as nascent and humbly look back on the origins of Christianity.Even Pope Leo was able to embrace the witness of these new Catholics and find solace in their faith when he welcomed the Mongolian pilgrims on Tuesday, June 17, at the Apostolic Palace.”We were very happy to meet Pope Leo. “We recalled the dimension of the Church in Mongolia as a ‘nascent Church,’ as Pope Francis had also described it,” Cardinal Giorgio Marengo told Fides. “It was beautiful to recall with him Pope Francis’s trip to Mongolia. We thanked our Mongolian faithful present during this pilgrimage for their witness of faith, knowing that for them, the choice to become Christians is not at all easy. We asked Pope Leo to pray for us and asked him to come to Mongolia too.”The Mission of the Church and prayer for the NovenaOn Wednesday, June 18, the pilgrims from Mongolia met with Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, at the historic Palace of Propaganda Fide.The experience of the small ecclesial community in Mongolia seems to be able to provide valuable insights for the entire Church, beginning with those who, by virtue of their condition and vocation, are more directly involved in the apostolic and missionary work of the Church. This is what emerges from the words and images used by Rufina, head of the Pastoral Office of the Apostolic Prefecture in Ulaanbaatar, when asked about her work. “We support Cardinal Giorgio Marengo, the missionaries, the parishes; we help them continue their service, taking into account what is needed day by day, moment by moment.” Sometimes it is a matter of finding a small prayer, writing a brief catechesis, doing a translation, or preparing a meeting,” she explains.The daily effort consists of recognizing what ecclesial life needs, grasping real needs, and trying to respond to them. “In recent weeks,” Rufina continues, giving concrete images of her daily work, “we have mobilized so that all the parishes in the prefecture share the same prayers for the Pentecost Novena.”These are simple initiatives, inspired by the shared treasure of the universal Church, that nourish the faith of a growing community. This same simplicity is also revealed in the requests of the faithful. “Those who have recently converted to Christianity always ask us for simple, essential things for their journey in faith. Twenty years ago,” Rufina recalls, “when I was a young catechist, we were delighted to find a useful image for catechesis. Now, with the Internet, there are more possibilities, but we continue to respond to the needs that concrete reality poses to us.”In Mongolia, ecclesial works are not born from a desire for protagonism or abstract voluntarism. They flourish only to respond to real needs, with a perseverance that can only be based on gratitude. (Agenzia Fides, 19/6/2025)
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  • British lawmakers to vote on landmark assisted dying law

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    British lawmakers held their final debate ahead of a historic vote on Friday on whether to legalise assisted dying for terminally ill people, in what would be a major step toward the biggest social reform in the country for a generation.

    The vote is expected at about 2:30 p.m. (1330 GMT) and if it goes in favour, the proposed new law will have cleared its biggest parliamentary hurdle. That would pave the way for Britain to follow Australia, Canada and other countries, as well as some U.S. states in permitting assisted dying.

    A vote against would stop the bill in its tracks.

    Last November, lawmakers voted 330 to 275 in favour of the principle of allowing assisted dying, but since then the bill has been scrutinised and amended, and some lawmakers have publicly changed their position, citing changes to provisions that they say weaken protections for vulnerable people.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Labour government is neutral on the legislation meaning politicians can vote according to their conscience rather than along party lines. Last year, Starmer voted in favour of the legislation and has indicated he continues to support it.

    The law was proposed under a process led by an individual member of parliament rather than being government policy, which has limited the amount of parliamentary time allocated to it.

    Some lawmakers have said that such a major social change should be allocated more parliamentary time for debate and involve a greater degree of ministerial involvement and accountability.

    If Friday’s vote is in favour, assisted dying stays on the road to legalisation, a process that could still take months.

    The Labour lawmaker who proposed the new law, Kim Leadbeater, said there could be a reduction in the number of members of parliament who support the bill on Friday compared with last year’s vote, but that she was confident it would still be approved.

    Opening the debate, Leadbeater said that the legislation was “desperately needed” and would provide dignity and compassion to people suffering. She argued it had robust safeguards that made it practical and safe.

    “This is not a choice between living and dying. It is a choice for terminally ill people about how they die,” she said.

    On Thursday, four Labour lawmakers switched sides to oppose the bill, joining the dozens who earlier this month said there had not been enough time to debate the details of such a consequential law change.

    “The bill before us simply does not do enough to safeguard people who may want to choose to live,” the four lawmakers said in a letter.

    Leadbeater said her biggest fear was that if the legislation was voted down, it could be another decade before the issue returns to parliament. It was last considered in 2015, when lawmakers voted against it.

    PUBLIC SUPPORT

    Opinion polls show that a majority of Britons back assisted dying, and supporters say the law needs to catch up with public opinion.

    Under the proposed law, mentally competent, terminally ill adults in England and Wales with six months or less to live would be given the right to end their lives with medical help.

    In the original plan, an assisted death would have required court approval. That has been replaced by a requirement for a judgement by a panel including a social worker, a senior legal figure and a psychiatrist, which is seen by some as a watering down.

    Lawmakers have also raised questions about the impact of assisted dying on the finances and resources of Britain’s state-run National Health Service and on the need to improve palliative care.

    If the vote passes, the proposed new law is sent to the House of Lords, parliament’s upper chamber. But the unelected Lords will be reluctant to block legislation that has been passed by elected members of the House of Commons.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Commerce Minister Holds Video Talks with EU Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, June 20 (Xinhua) — Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao held talks via video link with European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maros Sefcovic on Thursday, according to a statement released by the Ministry of Commerce.

    The two sides held in-depth and professional consultations on economic and trade issues, including the anti-subsidy investigation on electric vehicles and other trade remedy cases, as well as export control and market access.

    The two sides agreed to make joint efforts to meet each other halfway, effectively carry out preparatory work in the economic and trade field for the important agenda between China and the EU this year, and promote the healthy, stable and sustainable development of China-EU economic and trade relations. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council Tax information letter 4/2025: Consultation on council tax administration

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    Council Tax information letter 4/2025: Consultation on council tax administration

    This letter sets out details on the government’s consultation into modernising and improving the administration of council tax.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    Council Tax information letter 4/2025: Consultation on council tax administration

    HTML

    Details

    The letter provides a broad summary of the issues the government is consulting on as a part of this consultation. This also provides details on the Fair Funding Review 2.0 which was published in parallel to this consultation.

    Updates to this page

    Published 20 June 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Who will perform on stage at Scarlet Sails 2025?

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    The main theme of the concert numbers on Palace Square will be the victory of good over evil. An important milestone in Russian history will also be reflected – the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory.

    Lidiya Butuzova, general producer of the concert part of the “Scarlet Sails-2025” graduates’ celebration on Palace Square:

    – In the concert part of “Scarlet Sails”, together with the artists and graduates, we will discuss what helps us all win, what qualities are necessary for this, what is needed to move forward and achieve success. Of course, we will remember the great victories of our ancestors.

    The concert of the main celebration of graduates will include several blocks, each of which will embody the qualities that help to win.

    The 5UTRA group will talk about hope. It is this that helps to overcome difficulties and believe in the best. The video sequence on the screens, made in pastel colors, will create an atmosphere of lightness and emphasize the moment of expectation of happiness. For the first time in the history of the graduates’ holiday, the artists of the theater on the water will appear on stage. Together with the ballet “Todes”, they will complement the first performance.

    Singer and musician Akmal’ will be responsible for love. The performer, dancers and other artists on stage will turn into a single mechanism, the clear and precise movements of which symbolize order and harmony.

    The most anticipated artist of the evening is Nadezhda Kadysheva. In the “Power of Unity” block, she will perform popular hits “Shiroka Reka”, “I’m Not a Witch”, “Techet Ruchey”, “Vinovataya Lie Ya”, “Plyvet Venochek”. These compositions are filled with deep meanings, conveying a feeling of love for the homeland, loyalty to traditions and the strength of the Russian people. The graphics on the screens will show picturesque landscapes of Russian expanses and native birches, magical images of fairy-tale characters familiar to everyone from childhood.

    Vadim Samoilov/Agatha Christie will talk about wisdom and cunning, and the rock and pop group The Hatters will talk about courage. The group’s lead singer will experience the state of weightlessness. The “Will and Spirit” block is assigned to the singer Bearwolf. A musical medley, a theatrical performance and the appearance on stage of the brightest and most large-scale decoration of the evening will show the victory of light and goodness over darkness and chaos.

    “Ivanushki International” will present “Joy and Jubilation”. Honored Artist of Russia Zara will conduct a history lesson and remind about the exploits of our ancestors and heroes of our time. Those who defended their country, glorified and inspired subsequent generations.

    Lidiya Butuzova, general producer of the concert part of the “Scarlet Sails-2025” graduation celebration on Palace Square:

    – “Scarlet Sails” is a project that in itself inspires new achievements. The project is about dreams and the fulfillment of desires. The main thing is to believe in it and charge yourself with the wonderful energy of love, kindness and happiness that comes from it.

    A separate issue will be dedicated to the most tragic page in the history of the city on the Neva – the siege of Leningrad. It will be a kind of epilogue and summing up. This is a block about people who survived the siege and stood firm in the Great Patriotic War. And all of them, of course, possessed those qualities – fortitude, faith, hope, will, wisdom, love – that helped them win. The stage will turn into a window sealed with tape during the bombing, and the chronicles of those terrible days will come to life on white canvases. Musician and composer Nikola Melnikov and the orchestra will perform Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 7.

    The hosts of the main graduates’ concert will be Mitya Khrustalev and Daria Blokhina.

    The concert on Dvortsovaya will begin at 22:00 Moscow time and will last 2 hours and 40 minutes. At 00:40, a water-pyrotechnic show will unfold in the waters of the Neva with the participation of the main symbol of the holiday – the snow-white brig “Russia” under scarlet sails.

    The Scarlet Sails festival was revived in 2005 after a long hiatus on the initiative of Joint-Stock Bank ROSSIYA, the Government of St. Petersburg and Channel Five.

    The material was prepared by the press service of Channel Five.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – BUDG-CONT – ECA Review: Lessons to be learned from the weaknesses of the RRF – 25.06 – Committee on Budgets

    Source: European Parliament

    © Image used under license from Adobe Stock

    On 25 June 2025 the ECA Review 02/2025: “Performance-orientation, accountability and transparency – lessons to be learned from the weaknesses of the RRF” will be presented to Members of the Committee on Budgets (BUDG) and the Committee of Budgetary Control (CONT) by reporting ECA Members Jorg Kristijan Petrovic and Ivana Maletic.

    The RRF suffers from several weaknesses in terms of performance, accountability and transparency, the ECA observes in its review. Although the RRF has played a crucial role in the EU’s post-pandemic recovery, the ECA criticises that information on results is scarce, and there is no information on actual costs. As a result, it was not clear what citizens actually get for their money. The Court calls on EU policy makers to draw lessons from this when mulling future budgets based on performance rather than costs.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Unacceptable disciplinary proceedings against teachers – E-001386/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    According to Article 153(5) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (the ‘Treaty’), the right to strike does not fall under the EU’s legislative competence.

    Regarding the education systems in the Member States, Article 6 of the Treaty limits the role of the EU in the area of education to supporting, coordinating or supplementing Member States’ actions. The Member States remain solely responsible for the content of teaching and organisation of their education systems.

    Nevertheless, under the European Education Area cooperation framework, the Commission monitors and analyses Member States’ education policies in the Education and Training Monitor.

    The teachers’ evaluation mechanism in Greece contains elements for teachers’ career development which are important for the quality of education.

    Last updated: 19 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Erdoğan – a danger to Europe rather than the saviour of its security – E-001035/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Türkiye is a candidate country and a key partner for the EU. Accession negotiations have remained at a standstill since 2018, in line with the Council Conclusions[1].

    The EU’s serious concerns about the continued deterioration of democratic standards, the rule of law, and respect for fundamental rights have not been addressed.

    On 17-18 April 2024, the European Council reconfirmed[2] the EU’s strategic interest in a stable and secure environment in the Eastern Mediterranean and in the development of a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship with Türkiye.

    Since then, the EU and Türkiye held five high level dialogues in areas of mutual interest according to the Council’s guidance[3]. Türkiye has been constructive in working towards sustainable de-escalation in the Eastern Mediterranean, addressing trade barriers in the context of the Customs Union, and working on preventing the circumvention of sanctions against Russia.

    The Turkish Foreign Minister attended an informal lunch with EU Foreign Ministers in August 2024 and May 2025. Consultations at senior officials’ level continued on foreign policy and regional issues.

    The implementation of the 2016 EU-Turkey Statement[4] has continued to deliver tangible results in reducing irregular and dangerous crossings on the Eastern Mediterranean route to Europe.

    Türkiye continues to provide support to approximately 3.6 million refugees, while working to prevent irregular migration. On 16 October 2023, the Commission presented the EU Action Plan for the Eastern Mediterranean route[5] with measures addressing migration management along this route, including Türkiye.

    • [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/35863/st10555-en18.pdf.
    • [2] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/m5jlwe0p/euco-conclusions-20240417-18-en.pdf.
    • [3] https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-16983-2024-INIT/en/pdf.
    • [4] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2016/03/18/eu-turkey-statement/.
    • [5] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_23_4994.
    Last updated: 19 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Martyrs Fund and principle of budgetary unity – E-002882/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU bilateral allocation for Palestine[1] under the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument — Global Europe amounted to approximately EUR 1.36 billion for 2021-2024.

    During this period, commitments to the Mécanisme Palestino-Européen de Gestion de l’Aide Socio-Économique (PEGASE mechanism), for direct financial support to the Palestinian Authority (PA), amounted to EUR 516.75 million (yearly average approximately EUR 130 million).

    The overall EU funding for 2021-2024 supported the financing of the most essential services for Palestinians, contributed to the PA’s recurrent expenditures, via PEGASE, by supporting payments of salaries for civil servants, social allowance payments, funding for the East Jerusalem hospitals, and also supported various development projects and financial assistance to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees .

    The EU has never contributed to the Palestinian ‘Martyr Fund’ of the PA, which was discontinued with the new social protection law entering into force on 10 February 2025[2].

    The PA was running the Prisoner’s Fund off-budget, while PEGASE contributed to the budget of the PA. The Commission’s extended screening vetting system ensured that no EU funding went to the beneficiaries of the Prisoners Fund. The detainees and families (a list is provided by the PA) were categorically excluded from any payment made through PEGASE.

    Finally, Member States’ contributions to the EU budget are not earmarked for specific purposes. Instead, they are pooled and allocated proportionally across all expenditure categories.

    • [1]  This designation shall not be construed as recognition of a State of Palestine and is without prejudice to the individual positions of the Member States on this issue.
    • [2]  Decree-Law No. (4) of 2025, which amends Decree-Law No. (1) of 2019 regarding the Palestinian National Economic Empowerment Institution.
    Last updated: 19 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Central African Republic: Breakthrough as ex-combatants of rebel group are convicted for war crimes and crimes against humanity but trial tarnished by absence of four defendants

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Reacting to the news that the Special Criminal Court has convicted six former combatants of the Popular Front for the Rebirth of the Central African Republic (Front populaire pour la renaissance de la Centrafrique) for crimes against humanity and war crimes, Alice Banens, Legal Adviser at Amnesty International, said:

    “The decision handed down by the Special Criminal Court (SCC) in the Ndélé 2 case represents a breakthrough in the fight against impunity for serious crimes committed in the Central African Republic. Light has been shed on the atrocities committed in Ndélé in March 2020.

    “However, four of the six people found guilty and given heavy sentences were convicted in absentia. Amnesty International considers that the defendant’s right to be present at their trial, to prepare their defence with their lawyer, and to address the Court directly are pillars of the right of defence, without which there can be no fair trial.

    The execution of arrest warrants is essential if the fight against impunity is not to be selective.

    Alice Banens, Legal Adviser at Amnesty International

    “Several suspects who are accused of serious crimes and subject to arrest warrants from the SCC are still at large. This situation continues to deprive victims of their right to truth, justice and effective reparation. The execution of arrest warrants is essential if the fight against impunity is not to be selective.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Colombia: One year on, women searchers for victims of enforced disappearance are still waiting for the country to deliver for them

    Source: Amnesty International –

    • A year ago, the Colombian government approved Law 2364 of 2024, recognizing the work and rights of women searchers for victims of enforced disappearance. National and international social organizations are calling on the government to make progress on its implementation. 
    • According to official sources, between 100,000 and 200,000 persons have been forcibly disappeared in Colombia. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has recorded that even today one person disappears every 36 hours in the country. Their loved ones dedicate their lives to search for them in the midst of violence. Most of those searching are women. 
    • Amnesty International acknowledges that Colombia marked a first in the world when it approved this law, but a year has now gone by, and implementation is still pending. Organizations of women searchers such as the Nydia Erika Bautista Foundation emphasize that the risks and threats involved in searching make progress in the implementation of the law a matter of urgency. 

    Bogotá, 18 June 2025. A year ago, the Colombian government passed Law 2364 of 2024, which recognizes and provides for the integral protection of the work and rights of women searchers for victims of enforced disappearance. The Congress of the Republic debated and approved this law following the advocacy initiative of organizations of women searchers throughout the country. Amnesty International joined the Nydia Erika Bautista Foundation and the many other organizations of women searchers for forcibly disappeared persons in Colombia to demand that the law be implemented and the promise of state protection for the women who dedicate their lives to searching for their loved ones in the midst of violence be upheld.

    Although social organizations acknowledge the importance of Colombia having a law that recognizes and protects women searchers, it is concerning that the timelines provided for its implementation have not yet been met one year on. The law mandated the government to issue a regulatory decree on the participation of women searchers in developing, applying and evaluating public peace policies within three months from its entry into force. It also granted the Ministry of Health and Social Protection a period of six months for regulating access to age-related health and social protection programmes for women searchers, and the ministries of Internal Affairs and Equality the same period for promoting prevention and protection measures to ensure their safety. Finally, the law mandated that the government develop regulations for a Single Register of Women Searchers – to be managed by the Victims Unit (UARIV) – within one year, but such register has not yet been created. 

    The Nydia Erika Bautista Foundation and Amnesty International have emphasized that it is crucial that the regulations governing the law, which are currently being developed, are finalized and implemented, as significant risks persist in the search for disappeared persons. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Senegal and Kenya Top African Development Bank’s Electricity Regulatory Index, as Regulators Drive Tangible Reforms

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

    Kenya and Senegal have claimed the top spots in the African Development Bank’s 2024 Electricity Regulatory Index (ERI) (www.AfDB.org), demonstrating exceptional progress in power sector governance and regulatory outcomes. The comprehensive assessment, officially unveiled today at the Africa Energy Forum in Cape Town, evaluates regulatory frameworks across 43 African countries. 

    Uganda, Liberia and Niger round out the top five performers, with Niger registering one of the biggest gains, underlining the strong impact of sustained reforms and political commitment to power sector development. 

    The ERI evaluates three dimensions—Regulatory Governance, Regulatory Substance, and Regulatory Outcomes (ROI). Notably, the ROI, which tracks service delivery and utility performance, recorded the most substantial improvement across the continent. 

    Key findings from the 2024 ERI: 

    • Kenya and Senegal led with a score of 0.892, reflecting standout progress in tariff reform, regulatory outcomes, and utility performance. 
    • A remarkable 41 out of 43 participating countries achieved RGI scores above 0.5, representing a significant increase from 24 countries in 2022.  
    • Countries scoring below 0.500 reduced significantly from 19 in 2022 to just 6 in 2024.  
    • Even the lowest-performing country tripled its score—from about 0.10 to 0.33. 
    • The ROI surged from roughly 0.40 in 2022 to 0.62 in 2024, showing that reforms are delivering tangible service improvements on the ground. 

    Now in its seventh edition, the ERI shows strong momentum toward more effective, transparent, and impactful regulation, with real-world results beginning to emerge. 

    “The 2024 ERI shows that Africa’s regulators are stepping up. We are now seeing stronger institutions delivering real results for utilities and consumers. This shift is critical if we are to achieve Mission 300 and connect 300 million people to electricity by 2030,” says Dr. Kevin Kariuki, AfDB Vice President for Power, Energy, Climate and Green Growth. 

    For the first time, the 2024 ERI also assessed regional regulatory bodies, recognizing their growing role in harmonizing technical standards and enabling cross-border electricity trade. 

    As the backbone of Mission 300, ERI continues to inform the design and implementation of national energy compacts—currently active in 12 countries, with another 20 in development. 

    Bridging the Gap – Addressing Ongoing Challenges 

    While celebrating regulatory progress, the report calls for greater focus on regulatory independence, the financial viability of utilities, and the integration of off-grid and mini-grid systems into national frameworks. The ERI underscores that regulation must translate into better access, affordability, and reliability, especially for underserved rural populations.  

    The report outlines priority areas for enhancing regulatory effectiveness:  

    • Strengthening regulatory independence 
    • Enhancing accountability mechanisms 
    • Promoting transparency and predictability 
    • Improving stakeholder participation 
    • Deepening economic regulation and advancing cost-reflective tariff methodologies. 

    “The ERI 2024 tells a hopeful story. African countries are not just passing laws—they are implementing them. Regulators are transforming from administrative bodies into strategic institutions with measurable influence. However, challenges related to independence, financing, and enforcement persist,” said Wale Shonibare, Director for Energy Financial Solutions, Policy and Regulation at the Bank Group. 

    Launched in 2018, the ERI is a diagnostic and policy tool used by governments, regulators, and development partners to identify gaps, track progress, and prioritize reform efforts. The 2024 edition incorporates extensive feedback from utilities, regulators, and regional energy bodies.  

    The full ERI 2024 report will be available here (https://apo-opa.co/4kPeDmZ). 

    – on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

    Media Contact: 
    Gertrude Kitongo
    Communication and External Relations Department 

    Technical Contact: 
    Callixte Kambanda
    Manager, Energy Policy, Regulations, and Statistics 
    email: c.kambanda@afdb.org

    About the African Development Bank Group:
    The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 44 African countries with an external office in Japan, the AfDB contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. 

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The ‘EU Talent Pool’ as a new open door for mass migration – E-002371/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002371/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Tiago Moreira de Sá (PfE), Filip Turek (PfE), Markus Buchheit (ESN), Elisabeth Dieringer (PfE), Tom Vandendriessche (PfE), Aleksandar Nikolic (PfE), Branko Grims (PPE), Marc Jongen (ESN), Rachel Blom (PfE), António Tânger Corrêa (PfE), Tomasz Froelich (ESN), Gilles Pennelle (PfE), Dominik Tarczyński (ECR), Nikola Bartůšek (PfE), Milan Zver (PPE), Malika Sorel (NI), Jaroslava Pokorná Jermanová (PfE), Sebastian Tynkkynen (ECR), Petr Bystron (ESN), Marion Maréchal (ECR), Irmhild Boßdorf (ESN), Silvia Sardone (PfE), Séverine Werbrouck (PfE), Fernand Kartheiser (NI), Catherine Griset (PfE), Ondřej Knotek (PfE), Georgiana Teodorescu (ECR)

    The EU Talent Pool (TP), proposed as an initiative to attract skilled professionals from countries outside the EU, raises questions about its true objectives and implications for Member States. While presented as a voluntary mechanism to address shortages in the European labour market, uncertainties persist regarding its capacity to manage migration flows effectively, prevent large-scale family reunification and prioritise the interests of EU citizens:

    • 1.What safeguards will be implemented to ensure that Member States opting out of the TP will not face direct or indirect penalties under the Pact on Migration and Asylum or other EU instruments?
    • 2.Will the TP be accessible to qualified EU citizens, thereby promoting internal labour mobility and prioritising existing skills within the EU over those from non-EU countries?
    • 3.What specific measures will be adopted to monitor the entry of external candidates and family reunification requests to prevent unplanned migration flows and respect national migration policies, and how will the Commission ensure that the implementation of the TP is transparent, culturally sensitive, and inclusive of diverse political perspectives, addressing the concerns of citizens who uphold national values and a European identity rooted in Judeo-Christian traditions?

    Submitted: 12.6.2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, New Zealand should place greater emphasis on cooperation 2025-06-20 19:03:40 Chinese President Xi Jinping met with New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in Beijing on Friday, calling on both sides to place greater emphasis on cooperation.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

      Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, who is on an official visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, June 20, 2025. (Xinhua/Shen Hong)

      BEIJING, June 20 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping met with New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in Beijing on Friday, calling on both sides to place greater emphasis on cooperation.

      For more than 50 years, since the establishment of diplomatic ties, China-New Zealand relations have long been at the forefront of China’s relations with Western developed countries, Xi said.

      As the China-New Zealand comprehensive strategic partnership enters its second decade, both sides should work to grow the partnership and bring more benefits to the two peoples, he said.

      Xi stressed that China and New Zealand should place greater emphasis on cooperation in bilateral relations, leverage their complementary strengths, deepen trade and investment cooperation, and explore potential for cooperation in scientific and technological innovation, climate change, and infrastructure.

      He encouraged both sides to strengthen exchanges in education, culture, youth and at non-governmental and sub-national levels. 

      Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, who is on an official visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, June 20, 2025. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • Iran says no nuclear talks under Israeli fire, Trump considers options

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Iran said on Friday it would not discuss the future of its nuclear programme while under attack by Israel, as Europe tried to coax Tehran back into negotiations and the United States considers whether to get involved in the conflict.

    A week after it began attacking Iran, Israel’s military said it had carried out new strikes on dozens of military targets overnight, including missile production sites and a research organisation involved in nuclear weapons development in Tehran.

    Iran launched at least one new barrage of missiles early on Friday, striking near residential apartments, office buildings and industrial facilities in the southern city of Beersheba.

    The White House said on Thursday that President Donald Trump would decide on “whether or not to go” with U.S. involvement in the conflict in the next two weeks, citing the possibility of negotiations involving Iran in the near future.

    Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said on Friday there was no room for negotiations with Israel’s superpower ally the United States “until Israeli aggression stops”.

    But he was due to meet European foreign ministers in Geneva later on Friday for talks at which Europe hopes to establish a path back to diplomacy over Iran’s nuclear programme.

    Two diplomats said before the meeting involving France, Britain, Germany and the European Union’s foreign policy chief that Araqchi would be told the U.S. is still open to direct talks. Expectations for a breakthrough are low, diplomats say.

    Israel began attacking Iran last Friday, saying its longtime enemy was on the verge of developing nuclear weapons. Iran, which says its nuclear programme is only for peaceful purposes, retaliated with missile and drone strikes on Israel.

    Israel is widely assumed to possess nuclear weapons. It neither confirms nor denies this.

    Israeli air attacks have killed 639 people in Iran, according to the Human Rights Activists News Agency, a U.S.-based human rights organisation that tracks Iran. The dead include the military’s top echelon and nuclear scientists.

    Israel has said at least two dozen Israeli civilians have been killed in Iranian missile attacks.

    Reuters could not independently verify the death toll from either side. Details of casualties in the latest strikes were not immediately known.

    CIVILIANS KILLED

    Both sides say they are attacking military and defence-related targets, but civilians have also been caught in the crossfire and each has accused the other of hitting hospitals.

    An Iranian news website said a drone had struck an apartment in a residential building in central Tehran on Friday, but did not give details.

    Israel’s strikes on Iran’s nuclear installations so far pose only limited risks of contamination, experts say. But they warn that any attack on the nuclear power station at Bushehr could cause a nuclear disaster.

    Israel says it is determined to destroy Iran’s nuclear capabilities but that it wants to avoid any nuclear disaster in a region that is inhabited by tens of millions of people and produces much of the world’s oil.

    The meeting in Geneva was due to start on Friday afternoon. The Swiss city is where an initial accord was struck in 2013 to curb Iran’s nuclear programme in return for sanctions being lifted. A comprehensive deal followed in 2015.

    Trump pulled the U.S. out of the agreement in 2018. A new series of talks between Iran and the U.S. collapsed when Israel launched what it called Operation Rising Lion against Iran’s nuclear facilities and ballistic capabilities on June 12.

    Trump has alternated between threatening Tehran and urging it to resume nuclear talks. His special envoy to the region, Steve Witkoff, has spoken to Araqchi several times since last week, sources say.

    The Middle East has been on edge since the Palestinian militant group Hamas attacked it in October of 2023, triggering the Gaza war, and Israel has been fighting on several fronts against Iran’s regional allies.

    Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz warned on Friday of further action against Iranian ally Hezbollah, a day after the Lebanese militant group suggested it would come to Iran’s aid.

    Western and regional officials say Israel is trying to shatter the government of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

    Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday “the downfall of the regime … may be a result, but it’s up to the Iranian people to rise for their freedom.”

    Iranian opposition groups think their time may be near, but activists involved in previous protests say they are unwilling to unleash mass unrest with their nation under attack, and Iranian authorities have cracked down hard on dissent.

    “How are people supposed to pour into the streets? In such horrifying circumstances, people are solely focused on saving themselves, their families, their compatriots, and even their pets,” said Atena Daemi, a prominent activist who spent six years in prison before leaving Iran.

    (Reuters)

  • Four crore people in Bihar have overcome poverty in a decade, says PM Modi in Siwan

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Nearly four crore people in Bihar have overcome poverty in the past decade, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday, highlighting his government’s sustained efforts to uplift the poor and dismantle the legacy of deprivation left by previous regimes.
     
    Addressing a large public gathering in Siwan district, where he inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth over ₹5,200 crore, the Prime Minister said his government had delivered tangible results where previous governments had offered only slogans.
     
    “For decades, the country heard only slogans about poverty eradication,” PM Modi said. “But in the past ten years, a record 25 crore Indians have come out of poverty. Institutions like the World Bank have also acknowledged this achievement.”
     
    He noted that Bihar, particularly under the leadership of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, has played a pivotal role in this national transformation. “More than half of Bihar’s population once lived in extreme poverty,” he said. “But in the last ten years alone, nearly four crore people in the state have moved out of poverty. This is a remarkable turnaround.”
     
    PM Modi noted that for decades after independence, it wasn’t a lack of effort that held the poor back, but the absence of opportunities to move ahead. He said that even basic services were entangled in bureaucratic hurdles, turning routine tasks into major challenges. “People had to approach MPs just to get a gas connection, and bribes or personal contacts were often the only way to secure employment,” he said. He added that these conditions impacted Dalits, Mahadalits, and backward communities the most.
     
    He accused previous governments of turning the dreams of the poor into an opportunity for a select few families to accumulate wealth. “They sold dreams of poverty eradication, but only a handful became millionaires and billionaires,” he remarked.
     
    The Prime Minister said that in the last 11 years, the government has worked tirelessly to remove every hurdle from the path of the poor. “As a result, visible and impactful outcomes are now before the nation,” he said. Over four crore poor families across India have been provided with pucca houses under government schemes, he added, with another three crore houses planned. In Bihar alone, more than 57 lakh houses have been constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, including over 1.10 lakh homes in Siwan district.
     
    He also noted that housing installments were disbursed for over 50,000 families in Bihar today. “What makes me proud is that a majority of these homes are registered in the names of women. Women who never had any property in their names are today becoming proud homeowners,” he said.
     
    PM Modi said that the Centre was not only providing housing, but also ensuring food, electricity, and water for every household. “More than 12 crore new households in the country have been connected with tap water. In Siwan alone, over 4.5 lakh families received water connections for the first time,” he said. He added that efforts were underway to ensure every rural household has access to clean drinking water and that urban infrastructure is being upgraded through the approval of new pipeline and sewage treatment projects across multiple cities in Bihar.
     
    Taking aim at previous administrations, the Prime Minister said their record on development was dismal. “Whenever these parties speak of development, people are reminded of shuttered shops, stalled businesses, and collapsed industries,” he said, accusing them of promoting a climate of lawlessness, corruption, and mafia control. “They have always been anti-Bihar and anti-investment. That is why they have never been able to win the trust of Bihar’s youth,” he remarked.
     
    The Prime Minister said that all the developmental efforts currently underway are driven by a vision to create a better life for the poor, the backward, and the middle class. “These projects are not just infrastructure initiatives. They are steps towards restoring dignity, ensuring justice, and securing the future for generations to come,” PM Modi added.

  • Bihar made engines will now power trains in Africa: PM Modi

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that Bihar’s youth are closely observing the transformation taking place across the state, citing the Marhowra Locomotive Factory as an example of the government’s development model. Addressing a gathering in Siwan, PM Modi said that the first engine manufactured at the Marhowra facility is now being exported to Africa. 
     
    “The same Saran district that was once dismissed as backward is now exporting engines to Africa. This is a proud moment for Bihar,” the Prime Minister said. He added that the engines made in Bihar, now powering trains abroad, marks a significant milestone and reflects the broader transformation underway in the state. PM Modi said that Bihar is steadily becoming a hub for ‘Made in India’ manufacturing and noted that the state’s local produce e.g. makhana, fruits, and vegetables will reach international markets alongside industrial goods produced by local factories.
     
    “The products created by the youth of Bihar will strengthen the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat,” the Prime Minister said.
     
    PM Modi stated that infrastructure investments across the state are contributing to Bihar’s progress. He said new developments are taking place in roadways, railways, air travel, and inland waterways. Citing the recent expansion of train services, Modi said Bihar is regularly receiving new trains, including Vande Bharat Express services.
     
    He announced that before the onset of the holy month of Sawan, the newly launched Patna–Gorakhpur Vande Bharat Express has established a direct rail link between Baba Hariharnath’s land and the land of Baba Gorakhnath. He added that this new route would be especially beneficial for devotees in Purvanchal, offering a convenient travel option to visit places of religious and cultural importance. PM Modi said the train will also connect sites associated with the life of the Buddha, including his place of penance and the Mahaparinirvana site at Kushinagar.
     
    The Prime Minister said that these infrastructure developments will support industrial growth and also contribute to the tourism sector. He said that the state’s presence on the global tourism map will improve, bringing with it new employment opportunities for the youth.
     
    PM Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to equal opportunities for all, saying that the principle of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’ reflects the true spirit of the Constitution. He contrasted this with what he described as the “family-first” model of the previous regime. PM Modi accused previous governments of using power for the benefit of their own families, and said this had harmed the lives of millions of families across Bihar and the country.
     
    Referring to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, PM Modi said that the architect of the Constitution had consistently spoken out against dynastic politics. He criticised certain parties for dishonouring Ambedkar’s legacy, pointing to a recent incident in which his photograph was allegedly disrespected. “Posters have appeared across Bihar demanding an apology, but it is unlikely to come,” PM Modi said. He claimed that these political parties do not respect Dalits or Mahadalits, and added, “While they keep Dr. Ambedkar’s photograph at their feet, I carry him in my heart.”
     
    He said the people of Bihar would remember the way Baba Saheb had been treated. The Prime Minister added that the groundwork for Bihar’s development had already been laid through the efforts of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, and said it is now the responsibility of the NDA alliance to take the state forward.
     

  • MIL-OSI Banking: WTO members examine LDC trade interests, trade and development priorities

    Source: WTO

    Headline: WTO members examine LDC trade interests, trade and development priorities

    LDC trade interests
    At the meeting of the WTO Sub-Committee on LDCs on 16 June, members considered   several LDC related proposals, including those on LDC graduation, LDC accessions and the future of the Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF). They exchanged views on the latest proposal on LDC graduation, which focuses on three areas: subsidies, trade-related aspects of intellectual property rights and agriculture. A communication on strengthening the implementation of the LDC accession guidelines was submitted by India and Djibouti on behalf of the LDC Group.
    Members exchanged views on the future of the EIF, an Aid for Trade programme aimed at enhancing  LDC  integration  into global trade, which was implemented in two phases (2008 to 2015 and 2016 to 2022). Delegations considered the report of the EIF Task Force that included a set of proposed recommendations for a third phase covering the period from 2025 to 2031.
    An experience-sharing session in the Sub-Committee on LDCs explored new pathways for LDC trade growth. United Nations Trade and Development (UNCTAD) presented its 2024 report “Leveraging carbon markets for development”. Capital-based officials from Bangladesh and The Gambia shared insights on accessing green investment and leveraging trade-related climate finance for strengthening the competitiveness and resilience of key export sectors, including textiles and agriculture. The European Union and the LDC Fund for the Global Environmental Facility shared examples of support offered to LDCs with a view to achieving sustainable development and  transitioning to net zero for greenhouse gas emissions.
    Aid for Trade
    At the Aid for Trade session of the Committee on Trade and Development on 17 June, members continued sharing experiences on trade policy and regulatory support. Capital-based officials from Canada, China, Japan and Lao PDR participated in the discussion.
    Members welcomed Canada’s Expert Deployment Mechanism for Trade and Development, implemented by Cowater International, which supports developing economies in defining negotiating positions and implementing trade agreements. Representatives from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) highlighted Japan’s “co-creation” approach, which involves collaboration with the private sector, civil society and other donors. It was also noted that the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) would be held in August 2025 in Yokohama, Japan, under the theme “Co-create innovative solutions with Africa”.
    China and Lao PDR shared   South-South cooperation initiatives, including efforts to improve quarantine capacity and trade readiness.  Investments in railway infrastructure between the two countries were also acknowledged. UNCTAD’s efforts in measuring South-South flows were highlighted.
    Members reviewed a communication from Australia and Barbados proposing a draft ministerial decision titled “Reinforcing members’ commitment to Aid for Trade”. The proposal, set against the backdrop of declining official development assistance, calls for stronger monitoring and evaluation mechanisms and the establishment of a digital platform on existing trade-related technical assistance and capacity building programmes.
    During the experience-sharing session, key trends and challenges in global value chain (GVC) integration for developing economies were explored. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) noted that global trade remains resilient, though uncertainty remains. Professor Juan Carlos Hallak, University of Buenos Aires, emphasized the importance of public-private sectoral roundtables in Latin America. He recommended a bottom-up approach that begins with trade facilitation and regulatory reforms before tackling more complex issues such as investment and technology.
    The Lowy Institute, Australia, highlighted Southeast Asia’s trade openness and manufacturing diversification, while stressing the need to boost services productivity and ease regulatory barriers. PrimeSilicon Technology showcased Bangladesh’s experience in supplying digitally delivered services in the semiconductor value chain. The B20, represented by Ms. Trudi Makhaya, outlined three policy priorities: restoring trust in multilateral trade, advancing African integration through the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and promoting a climate-responsive trading system.
    Revitalizing trade and development work
    At the Committee on Trade and Development meeting on 18 June, the Secretariat presented a note on the implementation of the special and differential treatment provisions in the Agreement on Agriculture and the TRIPS Agreement. Members appreciated the Secretariat’s efforts in analysing special and differential treatment provisions. Members also explored how to revitalize trade and development deliberations.  Follow-up to the WTO Development Retreat was also discussed.
    Members   reviewed a communication from China titled “ Heightened Trade Turbulence and Responses from the WTO”. Other topics included the development aspects of the work programme on electronic commerce and duty-free, quota-free market access for LDCs. The Chair of the Committee on Trade and Development, Ambassador Mzukisi Qobo of South Africa, will consult members on a request by the co-convenors of the Investment Facilitation for Development Agreement to discuss progress made on the needs assessments under the WTO Committee on Trade and Development.
    Technical assistance
    The Secretariat presented the 2024 WTO Technical Assistance Report, highlighting four key results related to i) implementing WTO agreements; ii) accompanying new accessions; iii) advancing academic research; and iv) reaching out to various stakeholders. It was noted that in 2024 the Secretariat expanded its curriculum to include technical assistance activities on transparency in customs valuation and import licensing. As a result, 35 draft customs valuation notifications were received, with 22 circulated. The Secretariat also acknowledged technical assistance support to facilitate the WTO accessions of Comoros and Timor-Leste.
    On academic research, the WTO Chairs Programme saw a 13 per cent increase in WTO-related courses and a 16 per cent increase in trade-related research.  Five new universities joined the programme in 2024. However, due to budget constraints, the full potential of outreach activities to various stakeholders is yet to be fully explored.
    Members exchanged views on preparations for the next biennial WTO Technical Assistance and Training plan (2026 – 2027). The Secretariat provided an update on its ongoing work, including insights from beneficiaries. The Secretariat also highlighted that in view of limited resources, evolving approaches in the delivery of technical assistance and various funding scenarios were being considered going forward. Members welcomed the Secretariat’s efforts and expressed willingness to engage further in developing the WTO technical assistance plan.
    The next WTO Development Week is scheduled to take place from 17 to 19 November 2025.

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  • MIL-OSI Banking: Thales supports airspace sovereignty in Albania with Ground Master 400 Alpha surveillance radar

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: Thales supports airspace sovereignty in Albania with Ground Master 400 Alpha surveillance radar

    In the presence of the French Minister of the Armed Forces, Sébastien Lecornu, and Albanian Defence Minister Pirro Vengu, Thales was selected as strategic industrial partner to support a short-delivery-time request to supply a combat-proven Ground Master 400 Alpha (GM400α) air surveillance radar.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Conviction of opposition figures in Tunisia – E-001765/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In addition to the elements already provided in the reply to the Honourable Member’s question on the same matter ( E-001073/2025), please kindly find below complementary information with reference to the subject matter.

    While respecting the independence of the Tunisian judicial system, the EU noted with concern the heavy verdicts pronounced by the Tunisian court on 19 April 2025, which also involved EU citizens. The EU has also shared those concerns directly with Tunisian authorities through bilateral engagements.

    Respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms constitutes a key element of EU-Tunisia relations, as enshrined in the Association Agreement[1] and it is raised as part of the regular dialogues with the Tunisian authorities.

    On 16 April 2025, the Commission adopted a proposal for a targeted amendment to the Asylum Procedure Regulation establishing an EU list of safe countries of origin[2].

    Tunisia is indeed one of the countries proposed for designation. The proposal, subject to the ordinary legislative procedure, is under the Council and the European Parliament’s scrutiny. The designation of a third country as safe country of origin does not establish a guarantee of safety for all nationals of that country.

    Once the targeted amendment is adopted, Member States will still have to carry out an individual assessment of each asylum application from individuals coming from the countries designated as safe countries of origin at EU level, with all procedural safeguards intact (including legal remedies).

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/resource.html?uri=cellar:d3eef257-9b3f-4adb-a4ed-941203546998.0008.02/DOC_4&format=PDF.
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CONSIL:ST_8042_2025_INIT.
    Last updated: 20 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Backsliding on sustainable urban mobility in right-wing and far-right cities – E-001627/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Sustainable urban mobility is a priority for the Commission which pursues its promotion as means for reducing pollution, congestion and increasing the quality of life of urban areas across the EU.

    This is confirmed through legal requirements introduced in the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) Regulation[1] applicable to 431 urban nodes which requires the adoption of a Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP) by 2027.

    The regulation also contains specific guidelines for sustainable urban mobility planning where the integration of active mobility (walking, cycling) is required[2].

    The Commission has a significant role in setting up and promoting a coherent policy and legislative framework for urban mobility, however, t he choice of implementing measures and their design, is the prerogative of the local and regional authorities, based on the legal set-up of each Member State.

    The implementation and prioritisation of policies such as cycling infrastructure or pedestrian zones, falls predominantly under the national and local jurisdictions.

    The Commission will closely monitor the implementation of the TEN-T Regulation and advocate for sustainable mobility by supporting Member States and cities to implement SUMPs through assistance, guidance and incentives, encouraging local governments to align with EU objectives.

    • [1] REGULATION (EU) 2024/1679 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 13 June 2024 on Union guidelines for the development of the trans-European transport network, amending Regulations (EU) 2021/1153 and (EU) No 913/2010 and repealing Regulation (EU) No 1315/2013.
    • [2] ANNEX V of the TEN-T Regulation: SUSTAINABLE URBAN MOBILITY PLANNING GUIDELINES FOR URBAN NODES.
    Last updated: 20 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Emergency measures to combat avian influenza in Poland, part 3 – E-001522/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The animal health measures (including regionalisation measures with movement restrictions) available to combat animal diseases relevant for Union intervention are laid down in Regulation (EU) 2016/429[1] (Animal Health Law) and its delegated and implementing acts.

    As the epidemiological situation of different diseases evolve continuously, harmonised measures are regularly discussed and decided at the Standing Committee of Plants, Animals Food and Feed[2] (the Committee).

    The Commission is aware that during the last months Poland has faced a specific deterioration in the epidemiological situation regarding highly pathogenic avian influenza in poultry, having difficulties in controlling the disease in certain areas with high density of poultry establishments.

    As a consequence of that situation, the Polish competent authorities are implementing certain national measures in the zones of major concern.

    These measures were agreed with the Commission and presented at the Committee. These measures aim to contain the spread of the disease and operate within the framework of EU rules, according to the Animal Health Law.

    The Commission then adopted Implementing Decision (EU) 2025/896[3], amending the annex to Implementing Decision (EU) 2023/2447[4], demarcating the areas listed as protection, surveillance and further restricted zone in view of the evolution of the disease situation.

    As stated above, the corresponding extent of restrictions is updated regularly according to the evolution of the epidemiological situation.

    • [1] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2016/429/oj.
    • [2] https://food.ec.europa.eu/document/download/2f28853a-4693-4f9a-aca3-ee464dc2cdac_en?filename=reg-com_ahw_20250328_pres-18.pdf.
    • [3] http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2025/896/oj.
    • [4] http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2023/2447/oj.
    Last updated: 20 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Bovine tuberculosis and its consequences for farmers in Normandy – E-001370/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    EU animal health rules for the management of infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) in bovine animals are laid down in Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/689[1].

    These EU rules do not stipulate a ‘blanket slaughter’ of an entire establishment of bovine animals when one outbreak of infection with MTBC is confirmed among them.

    The EU rules provide for a proportionate approach, including derogations for the movement of animals and products from infected establishments.

    Implementation of those rules is the responsibility of the competent authority of the Member States. In case of confirmed outbreaks, the competent authority conducts an epidemiological enquiry and considers relevant factors to decide on the best way to deal with the situation. They have a margin of manoeuvre to choose from risk mitigating measures, including the slaughtering of animals.

    Diagnostic methods for infection with MTBC are laid down in Annex III, Section 2 of the same Regulation. Only those diagnostic methods can be used, and the Member States are supported by an EU Reference Laboratory[2].

    The EU rules are based on up-to-date scientific advice from the European Food Safety Authority, are in line with the international standards[3], and have been duly discussed with the experts of the Member States, considering also decades of experience dealing with MTBC in the EU.

    The EU has been funding research on MTBC through its successive Framework Programmes. Under the ongoing ICRAD ERA-NET[4], two projects address respectively the host/pathogen interaction and diagnosis improvement through the use of new antigens and test platforms. The Horizon Europe partnership on animal health and welfare[5] is planning research activities on bovine tuberculosis in 2025.

    • [1] These rules stem from Article 24 with further details in Articles 25-31 of the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/689 of 17 December 2019 supplementing Regulation (EU) 2016/429 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards rules for surveillance, eradication programmes, and disease-free status for certain listed and emerging diseases, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg_del/2020/689/2023-10-11.
    • [2] More information at https://www.visavet.es/bovinetuberculosis/.
    • [3] Those of the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH): https://www.woah.org/en/home/.
    • [4] https://www.icrad.eu/the-second-call-of-the-era-net-icrad/.
    • [5] https://www.eupahw.eu/.
    Last updated: 20 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Green Deal undermining the operational efficiency of police forces – E-001286/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The EU’s net greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of at least 55% by 2030 compared to 1990 and the climate neutrality target by 2050, enshrined in the European Climate Law, require a swift decrease in emissions from all sectors. The regulation on CO2 emission standards for new passenger cars and vans[1] sets targets for the average emissions per manufacturer, which get stricter over time, up to a 100% emission reduction target for new vehicles registered in the EU from 2035 onwards. The regulation creates long-term certainty so that investments can be channelled in clean technologies, new value chains in the EU, recharging infrastructure, and the reskilling of users.

    Over the past years, the efficiency and range of zero-emission vehicles has steadily improved — reaching an average of close to 350 km already in 2022[2], and the availability of recharging and refuelling infrastructure has strongly increased. As the technology develops, further improvements of these aspects are expected in the coming years.

    2. The Commission notes that the above-mentioned Regulation does not impose the use of any specific technology.

    3. The EU is not competent to determine the specific working conditions and equipment used by law enforcement authorities, including the type of patrol cars they use. It is for the relevant national authorities to do so.

    • [1] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2019/631/2024-01-01.
    • [2] https://alternative-fuels-observatory.ec.europa.eu/policymakers-and-public-authorities/electric-vehicle-model-statistics.
    Last updated: 20 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –