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Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Commission communication on spyware – E-000435/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission has followed closely the work of the Committee to investigate the use of Pegasus surveillance spyware (PEGA) conducted during the previous parliamentary term.

    Based on the report and the recommendations, as well as its own fact-gathering exercise, the Commission will decide on the most appropriate way forward.

    The Commission’s position is very clear: any attempts to illegally access data of citizens, including journalists and political opponents, is unacceptable, if confirmed.

    Even where the use of spyware is linked to national security, and in instances where it falls outside the scope of EU law, national checks and balances need to ensure that safeguards are in place.

    The Commission has followed up on developments concerning the alleged illegal use of intrusive surveillance software in its annual Rule of Law Reports, in particular as regards the functioning of national checks and balances in response to such allegations.

    The EU data protection and privacy acquis offers comprehensive protection to the confidentiality of communications and users’ personal data and terminal equipment. EU data protection law is applicable to the processing of personal data by private entities, even where such processing is required for national security purposes.

    Under the provisions of the ePrivacy Directive[1], the interception or surveillance of communications by public or private bodies is prohibited without the consent of the user.

    While restrictions to these provisions are permitted for important public objectives, they are subject to strict conditions and safeguards.

    The Law Enforcement Directive[2] is also applicable when competent authorities process personal data for law enforcement purposes. Processing of personal data under these instruments is subject to control by supervisory authorities, which have effective powers to examine any allegations of misuse, as well as subject to judicial review.

    • [1] Directive 2002/58/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 July 2002 concerning the processing of personal data and the protection of privacy in the electronic communications sector (Directive on privacy and electronic communications), OJ L 201, 31.7.2002, p. 37.
    • [2] Directive (EU) 2016/680 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data by competent authorities for the purposes of the prevention, investigation, detection or prosecution of criminal offences or the execution of criminal penalties, and on the free movement of such data, and repealing Council Framework Decision 2008/977/JHA, OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 89-131.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Trade agreements and respect of social and environmental standards – E-001653/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission remains committed to its trade and sustainable development (TSD) policy as put forward in the 2022 Communication ‘The power of trade partnerships: together for green and just economic growth’[1].

    It is based on an engagement-based approach grounded in international frameworks and standards with strong implementation and enforcement. This includes the use of remedies for breaches of core TSD provisions. The final outcome of each agreement is country specific.

    The agreements with Kenya and Chile have strong TSD commitments, including provisions on labour matters, gender equality, environment and the fight against climate change.

    These commitments are binding and enforceable through specific dispute resolution mechanisms. In addition, a review clause in the agreements also allows for the possibility to further enhance the mechanism by agreeing on the application of the temporary suspension of trade preferences (i.e. remedies). The Commission is committed to engage with Kenya and Chile as part of this review mechanism.

    Trade agreements can serve the Sustainable Development Goals in various ways, with the enforcement mechanism of TSD provisions being one of the important aspects.

    The Commission regularly assesses the sustainable development impact of its trade agreements, through ex-ante impact assessments[2] as well as through ex-post evaluations[3].

    The Commission is committed to follow up on their conclusions as appropriate to maximise the sustainable development potential of the agreements.

    • [1]  COM (2022) 409; https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52022DC0409.
    • [2] https://policy.trade.ec.europa.eu/analysis-and-assessment/sustainability-impact-assessments_en.
    • [3] https://policy.trade.ec.europa.eu/analysis-and-assessment/ex-post-evaluations_en.
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Commission’s stance on improving road safety by introducing photoluminescent lane markings throughout the EU – E-001415/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is committed to the achievement of ambitious road safety goals, with the aim of having no deaths or serious injuries on EU roads by 2050.

    In this context, road infrastructure plays a crucial role by contributing to the prevention of accidents and by diminishing their consequences when they do occur.

    Road markings are an important feature of road infrastructure but are adapted by every Member State to its specific conditions, such as climate, traffic, costs, environmental policy etc. There are no common rules at EU level on the type of markings to be deployed on roads within the Union.

    Whilst the addition of a certain photoluminescent effect to road markings may be a useful feature to be considered by national administrations according to specific local situations, the Commission would underline that this cannot replace the need for road lighting which ensures the visibility of obstacles and of other road users in all weather and road conditions.

    Last updated: 13 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Construction work on the A69 motorway in France halted – E-001231/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission agrees that good connectivity and access to a well-functioning and sustainable transport system is key for regional development, for fostering economic, social, and territorial cohesion, and for the quality of life of EU citizens, including better rural-urban connectivity.

    Connectivity is one of the main objectives of the trans-European transport network (TEN-T) policy aimed at the creation of an EU wide, multimodal network of transport connections built in compliance with commonly agreed infrastructure standards.

    The road between Toulouse and Castres is not part of the TEN-T network. The planning and decisions on possible investments remain within the national competence.

    EU cohesion policy may play an important role in the matter questioned. However, the investment strategy of the Occitanie regional programme as proposed by the region and adopted by the Commission does not foresee funding for transport infrastructure under Policy Objective 3 ‘A more connected Europe’. It can still be noted that the region has allocated EUR 21 million to sustainable urban mobility.

    Last updated: 13 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Proposed ban on lead in ammunition – P-001769/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The European Chemicals Agency’s Committee for Socio-Economic Analysis concluded[1] in its assessment that the proposed restriction of lead in ammunition is proportionate, i.e. the expected benefits compensate the expected costs.

    The regulation on the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH)[2] does not provide for compensatory mechanisms, because restrictions are proposed after thoroughly assessing their estimated costs and benefits.

    In its proposal, the Commission paid close attention to preserving Member States’ defence preparedness as well as the Union’s strategic autonomy and security of supply.

    To this end, it (i) excludes all military and defence applications from the scope, and (ii) allows the continued use of lead bullets (the most common ammunition used for defence purposes) in civilian sports shooting ranges, without conditions.

    This will ensure that the demand for lead bullets remains at pre-restriction levels as the market for lead bullets is driven by bullets for sport shooting.

    Production lines for lead bullets will therefore remain economically viable and available should there be a need to scale up production for military uses.

    The restriction is not expected to bring new dependencies from third countries as most lead and steel used in ammunition already come from outside the EU. The proposed obligation to recover spent lead will rather help reduce the existing dependence.

    • [1] Committee for Risk Assessment (RAC), Committee for Socioeconomic Analysis (SEAC). Opinion on an Annex XV dossier proposing restrictions on Lead and its compounds (2 December 2022). https://echa.europa.eu/documents/10162/2c82ef18-ce5d-4b4f-8ff0-002932154acc.
    • [2] Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 December 2006 concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) (OJ L 396 30.12.2006, p. 1). https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A02006R1907-20241218.
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Methodology for registering heavy-duty vehicles running exclusively on CO2 neutral fuels – E-002265/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002265/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Andreas Glück (Renew)

    On 26 June 2024, Regulation (EU) 2024/1610 on strengthening the CO2 emission performance standards for new heavy-duty vehicles entered into force. Since CO2 reduction targets reaching 90 % in 2040 are measured only at the tailpipe, the regulation contradicts the important principle of technological neutrality. Indeed, it severely limits the possible use of CO2 neutral fuels, such as synthetic fuels and biofuels, to decarbonise heavy-duty transport in the EU.

    In recital 17 of Regulation (EU) 2024/1610, the Commission is tasked with assessing the role of a methodology for registering heavy-duty vehicles running exclusively on CO2 neutral fuels within one year of the date of entry into force of the regulation.

    • 1.When is the Commission planning to publish its assessment of the role of a methodology for registering heavy-duty vehicles running exclusively on CO2 neutral fuels?
    • 2.Is the Commission considering a targeted amendment of Regulation (EU) 2024/1610 in order to complement the legislation, with the possibility of registering heavy-duty vehicles running exclusively on CO2 neutral fuels?

    Submitted: 5.6.2025

    Last updated: 13 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Risks linked to hidden communication modules in solar inverters – E-002219/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002219/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Beatrice Timgren (ECR)

    A recent investigation has revealed that solar inverters manufactured by Chinese companies and deployed across Western markets may contain communication modules capable of transmitting data without the knowledge of the user[1]. These hidden modules, thus far only discovered in models exported to US markets, raise serious cybersecurity and sovereignty concerns. Such devices are reportedly installed in the products without being listed in the product documentation. This could potentially enable remote shutdowns and data exfiltration.

    Given the above:

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of these findings, and has it initiated an investigation into the security implications of Chinese-made inverters installed within the EU?
    • 2.What steps is the Commission taking to assess and mitigate risks to energy infrastructure from Chinese-controlled hardware and software?
    • 3.Will the Commission consider adjusting existing EU security standards or certification procedures to ensure that solar inverters and related components are subject to checks for hidden communication capabilities?

    Submitted: 3.6.2025

    • [1] Reuters, ‘Rogue communication devices found in Chinese solar power inverters’, 14 May 2025, https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/climate-energy/ghost-machine-rogue-communication-devices-found-chinese-inverters-2025-05-14.
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Reserving strategic public procurement of European software for European companies – E-002666/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Since 12 July 2023, the Foreign Subsidies Regulation (FSR)[1] enables the Commission to address the distortive effect on competition of foreign subsidies.

    In particular, it introduced a notification obligation for bidders in public procurement procedures falling within the scope of application of the regulation with an estimated value equal or greater than EUR 250 million.

    In so far as the Commission’s own funding activities are concerned, the recast of the Financial Regulation[2] has introduced a horizontal legal basis in its Article 136 in order to identify sensitive award procedures, e.g. concerning strategic assets and interests such as satellite infrastructure.

    This allows for the introduction of participation restrictions, including for third country ownership and control of applicants and tenderers, where necessary, to protect security and public order of the EU and its Member States.

    Furthermore, with the Single Market Strategy[3] presented on 21 May 2025, the Commission has reaffirmed its commitment to review the EU public procurement framework in 2026 also with a view to introducing European preference criteria in EU public procurement for certain strategic technologies and sectors, while ensuring the competitiveness of tenders.

    The development of the platform as referred to by the Honourable Member has not been supported with EU funds.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:32022R2560.
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=OJ:L_202402509.
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:52025DC0500.
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Digitisation of public administration and protection of European citizens’ data – E-000997/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Interoperable Europe Act[1] mandates EU and public bodies to conduct interoperability assessments (since 2025) and promotes cross-border collaboration via a share-and-reuse mechanism for solutions.

    This addresses interoperability gaps in states like Romania. To strengthen cybersecurity, the EU equipped itself with an extensive and solid legal framework, which includes the NIS2 Directive[2], the Cyber Resilience Act[3], the Cyber Solidarity Act[4] and the Cybersecurity Act[5] establishing the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA), while the Digital Europe Programme (DEP) and Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) fund IT infrastructure upgrades.

    For example, the Romanian recovery and resilience plan contains several reforms and investments to bolster cybersecurity of public and private entities for a budget of approximately EUR 138 million.

    The European Digital Identity (EUDI) Wallet and upcoming EU Business Wallet provide secure, harmonised digital identification for citizens, businesses, and public administrations to authenticate, receive notifications, and share verified credentials.

    For data protection, the Once-Only Technical System (OOTS) enables secure cross-border data sharing (e.g. birth certificates), identification through eIDAS/EUDI Wallets, with user consent and data previews.

    The Digital-Ready Policymaking (DRPM) framework ensures EU policies embed interoperability safeguards, including a mandatory ‘digital statement’ during policy design.

    Together, these initiatives streamline access to digital services (e.g. a Romanian citizen sharing data with a German institution) while ensuring compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)[6] and cybersecurity standards.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2024/903 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 March 2024 laying down measures for a high level of public sector interoperability across the Union; OJ L, 2024/903, 22.3.2024.
    • [2] Directive (EU) 2022/2555 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 December 2022 on measures for a high common level of cybersecurity across the Union, amending Regulation (EU) No 910/2014 and Directive (EU) 2018/1972, and repealing Directive (EU) 2016/1148; OJ L 333, 27.12.2022, p. 80-152.
    • [3] Regulation (EU) 2024/2847 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2024 on horizontal cybersecurity requirements for products with digital elements and amending Regulations (EU) No 168/2013 and (EU) 2019/1020 and Directive (EU) 2020/1828; OJ L, 2024/2847, 20.11.2024.
    • [4] Regulation (EU) 2025/38 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 December 2024 laying down measures to strengthen solidarity and capacities in the Union to detect, prepare for and respond to cyber threats and incidents and amending Regulation (EU) 2021/694; OJ L, 2025/38, 15.1.2025.
    • [5] Regulation (EU) 2019/881 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 April 2019 on ENISA and on information and communications technology cybersecurity certification and repealing Regulation (EU) No 526/2013; OJ L 151, 7.6.2019, p. 15-69.
    • [6] Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data, and repealing Directive 95/46/EC; OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 1-88.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Strengthening workplace health and safety to prevent sudden cardiac arrest deaths – E-001716/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU ‘occupational safety and health (OSH) Framework Directive’[1] lays down the duty of the employer to ensure workers’ safety and health in all work-related aspects.

    It sets minimum requirements that apply to all workers and sectors of activity, covering risk assessment, preventive and protective measures, health surveillance and training, with special protection for sensitive risk groups.

    Along with the related OSH directives, the framework Directive provides comprehensive protection against all occupational risks. Therefore, it does not include explicit provisions for specific medical conditions, and there are no current plans for amendment. The development and implementation of specific measures fall under the prerogative of Member States.

    Nevertheless, several cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks are addressed by EU actions, for example, by providing an E-guide to managing stress and psychosocial risks[2].

    The Commission is also working on addressing other relevant OSH risks, for example via the review of the Workplace Directive[3] and the Display Screen Equipment Directive[4] to address new ways of working.

    The Commission facilitates the exchange of good practices and supports evidence-based policymaking to address CVD risks within the OSH context.

    In this regard, the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work provides analyses, guidelines, and tools to support the prevention and management of occupational CVDs[5] related risks.

    It is also planning an overview of regulation, policies, strategies and programmes for the prevention of work-related CVDs[6]. The Senior Labour Inspectors’ Committee prepares publications relevant to CVD prevention[7].

    • [1] Council Directive 89/391/EEC of 12 June 1989 on the introduction of measures to encourage improvements in the safety and health of workers at work. OJ L 183, 29.6.1989, p. 1. — https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/ALL/?uri=celex%3A31989L0391.
    • [2] European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, https://osha.europa.eu/en/tools-and-resources/e-guides/e-guide-managing-stress-and-psychosocial-risks.
    • [3] Council Directive 89/654/EEC of 30 November 1989 concerning the minimum safety and health requirements for the workplace (first individual directive within the meaning of Article 16 (1) of Directive 89/391/EEC). OJ L 393, 30.12.1989, p. 1-12. — https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/1989/654/oj/eng.
    • [4] Council Directive 90/270/EEC of 29 May 1990 on the minimum safety and health requirements for work with display screen equipment (fifth individual Directive within the meaning of Article 16 (1) of Directive 89/391/EEC) (90/270/EEC). OJ L 156 21.6.1990, p. 14. — https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/1990/270/oj/eng.
    • [5] https://osha.europa.eu/sites/default/files/documents/20230105%20Final%20SPD%202024-2026-FINAL.pdf.
    • [6] https://osha.europa.eu/en/about-eu-osha/procurement/osha2025lvp0002-exa-overview-regulation-policies-strategies-initiatives-and-programmes-prevention-work-related-cardiovascular-diseases-cvds-low-value-procedure.
    • [7] https://circabc.europa.eu/ui/group/fea534f4-2590-4490-bca6-504782b47c79/library/95caf22f-5b52-45e3-ad25-01aaa5c78e2c/details.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Period poverty in the EU: actions by the Commission – E-001082/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    More than one fifth of the EU population lives at risk of poverty or social exclusion with women at higher risk. EU initiatives, such as the Council Recommendation on adequate minimum income ensuring active inclusion address the challenge and the upcoming EU Anti-Poverty Strategy will aim at facilitating people’s access to the essential protections and services, along with addressing the root causes of poverty.

    In the Roadmap for Women’s Rights[1], the Commission lists combating women’s poverty and facilitating access to affordable menstrual hygiene products as key policy objectives to uphold and advance the principle of ‘equal pay and economic empowerment’ and ‘the highest standards of health’, respectively.

    The inability of women and girls to access menstrual products could make them miss school or work and negatively impact their health. Member States are free to apply a reduced rate or exempt menstrual products of value added tax[2] although this may not necessarily result in a reduction in price.

    Through the Mutual Learning Programme in Gender Equality, the Commission will invite Member States to organise an exchange of good practices on women’s poverty, including period poverty.

    The communication on a comprehensive approach to mental health[3] supports vulnerable groups, including children and women in vulnerable situations, through its 20 flagship initiatives and around EUR 1.2 million in funding opportunities.

    Initiatives include the identification of best and promising practices to support knowledge sharing, such as the Neunerhaus mental health practice[4] targeting women experiencing poverty.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/news/eu-roadmap-womens-rights-renewed-push-gender-equality-2025-03-07_en.
    • [2] According to Annex III, point (3), of Council Directive 2006/112/EC of 28 November 2006 on the common system of value added tax, OJ L 347, 11.12.2006, p. 1, as amended by Council Directive (EU) 2022/542.
    • [3] https://health.ec.europa.eu/publications/comprehensive-approach-mental-health_en.
    • [4] https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/dyna/bp-portal/submission/search?call=Mental%20Health.
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – A cloud to call our own! – E-001198/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission aims to support an enhanced availability and uptake of European cloud solutions across the EU through the upcoming Cloud and Artificial intelligence Development Act[1].

    The main objective is to at least triple the EU’s overall data centre capacity within the next five to seven years[2] and ensure that highly critical use cases in the EU are served by highly secure EU-based cloud capacity[3].

    The Act will be complemented by a single EU-wide cloud policy for public administrations and public procurement[4].

    Moreover, the Commission has approved the ongoing implementation of the Important Project of Common European Interest on Next Generation Cloud Infrastructure and Services[5].

    Also, through the co-financing under the Digital Europe Programme, the Commission also supports the deployment of an EU marketplace for federated cloud services[6] to facilitate the provision and the procurement of cloud services across the EU by EU cloud service providers[7].

    The Commission’s adequacy decision on the EU-US Data Privacy Framework[8] is based on the key safeguards included in Executive Order 14086 (EO 14086) adopted by the President of the United States[9].

    In particular, EO 14086 introduced safeguards to ensure that the collection and use of personal data of Europeans by United States intelligence agencies is limited to what is necessary and proportionate in pursuit of defined national security objectives.

    Moreover, EO 14086 established the Data Protection Review Court, providing EU citizens with a redress mechanism with binding investigatory and remedial powers.

    EO 14086 continues to be in place, providing key safeguards to data transferred from the EU[10], and addressing all the points raised by the Court of Justice in its Schrems II judgment[11].

    • [1] Mission letter from the President of the European Commission to the Executive Vice-President-designate for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy: https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/3b537594-9264-4249-a912-5b102b7b49a3_en?filename=Mission%20letter%20-%20VIRKKUNEN.pdf.
    • [2] This will be achieved by streamlining the permitting procedures and improving access to suitable sites, energy and funding for data centres that meet ambitious resource efficiency requirements. This is an important opportunity for European data centre operators and cloud service providers will have an important role to play in meeting this objective.
    • [3] Such highly critical uses cares in the EU are characterised by high sovereignty and operational autonomy requirements.
    • [4] The aim will be to assist the Act’s implementation in the public sector, guide public authorities in their cloud procurement decisions and empower them to leverage their purchasing power more strategically.
    • [5] IPCEI CIS/8ra Europe’s Next Generation Cloud Infrastructure and Services — 8ra: https://www.8ra.com/ Seven Member States will provide up to EUR 1.2 billion in public funding, expected to unlock an additional EUR 1.4 billion.
    • [6]  Project DOME DOME Mark etplace: https://dome-marketplace.eu/dashboard.
    • [7]  Such providers offer highly trustworthy, curated cloud services that serve the interests of crucial sectors dealing with sensitive data, such as the public sector.
    • [8]  Commission Implementing Decision EU 2023/1795 of 10 July 2023 pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the adequate level of protection of personal data under the EU-US Data Privacy Framework (notified under document C(2023)4745) (Text with EEA relevance) C/2023/4745 OJ L 231, 20.9.2023, p. 118-229 https://commission.europa.eu/document/fa09cbad-dd7d-4684-ae60-be03fcb0fddf_en.
    • [9]  Executive Order 14086 on ‘Enhancing Safeguards for United States Signals Intelligence Activities’.
    • [10]  Its requirements and safeguards have also been recently assessed in the Commission’s report of 9 October 2024 to the European Parliament and the Council on the first periodic review of the functioning of the adequacy decision on the EU-US Data Privacy Framework COM(2024) 451 final: https://commission.europa.eu/document/25695177-8073-4ce3-bf81-eb816dc6b468_en.
    • [11]  C-311/18, Data Protection Commissioner v Facebook Ireland Limited and Maximillian Schrems (‘Schrems II’), 16 July 2020, ECLI:EU:C:2020:559.
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Accountability for delays to the first flights of the day (first wave and knock-on effects) – E-001487/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The regulatory framework governing air traffic management in the EU includes performance and charging schemes for air navigation services and network functions.

    As part of those schemes, air traffic service providers are bound to implement binding national performance targets for air traffic control capacity, which is aimed at limiting the number of delays caused by air traffic control in Europe.

    Member States must also set out incentives of financial nature for the achievement of those performance targets by the service providers in the key performance area of capacity in an effective and proportional manner, both for services to overflights and for services at and around airports.

    The Commission will revise soon the detailed rules governing the performance and charging schemes for the next reference period of the Single European Sky performance and charging scheme starting in 2030 in order to implement the changes introduced by the regulation on the implementation of the Single European Sky (Regulation (EU) 2024/2803[1]).

    At this occasion, the Commission will review the relevance of the indicators used for the setting of performance targets, which may include the need to address specifically services to first-wave flights. The detailed rules governing the setting up of incentive schemes may also be further assessed.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/2803/oj/eng.
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Funding and prioritising of the Rail Baltica project – E-000924/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Commission considers the Rail Baltica project one of the flagship projects on the trans-European transport network (TEN-T) because it would finally allow to connect the Baltic states to the single European railway area. This is crucial for the regions’ economic growth, cohesion and now more than ever, its security and defence. For the Commission, Rail Baltica is the most urgent transport infrastructure project in the Baltic States to be implemented.

    2. In the Baltic states, the Rail Baltica project is managed by RB Rail joint venture and Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania authorities. The Baltic states cooperate closely, including through the RB Rail, to ensure the success of Rail Baltica. The project partners monitor the costs and expected benefits. They are also responsible for the respective railway market and ensuring that rail traffic can start as soon as the line is operational. The Commission follows the project implementation and has always encouraged the organisations involved in the implementation to use the most cost-efficient solutions. There are frequent audits, and the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency and the European Coordinator for the North Sea Baltic corridor monitor the project.

    3. The c o-legislators identified the infrastructure priorities of the trans-European transport network (TEN-T) until 2050 in TEN-T Regulation[1] to ensure consistency and predictability. They identified Rail Baltica as a major cross-border missing link[2]. The applicable regulation also considers financial constraints and the fiscal rules of the EU to safeguard the financial stability and resilience of Member States apply.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=OJ:L_202401679.
    • [2] Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) Regulation: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/1153/oj/eng.
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Aromatic and medicinal plants from Greek producers – E-001584/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), through the Strategic Plans Regulation[1], includes a range of tools that allow farmers and Member States to develop production (including of aromatic and medicinal plants) ensuring the viability and competitiveness of farms.

    In the Greek CAP Strategic Plan (CSP)[2], a Basic Income Support with a total amount of EUR 4 274 574 890.is paid to all eligible farmers.

    The unit amount, per eligible hectare in the agricultural area of arable crops, is set to EUR 215. An increased support for small/medium farms and young farmers with bigger income support needs with a total amount of EUR 913 297 896 is also programmed under the CSP.

    Farmers may participate on a voluntary basis in the eco-schemes relevant to medicinal and aromatic plants with different support rates (e.g. organic farming: EUR 1 295/hectare/year, use of resistant and adapted species and varieties: EUR 824/hectare/year).

    Furthermore, under the rural development interventions, investment support is available to modernize or improve production, aiming to improve economic efficiency, and competitiveness of agricultural holdings to quickly adapt to market needs and to increase their market orientation.

    In addition, support is programmed for investments in the processing/marketing and/or development of several agricultural products, including medicinal and aromatic plants, aiming to produce quality products, increasing their added value, as well as helping to enter new markets.

    Finally, the CSP provides support for interventions for producer organisations (EUR 31 million), quality schemes (EUR 41 million), training (EUR 108 million) and advisory services to farmers (EUR 63 million).

    • [1]  Regulation (EU) 2021/2115 (OJ L 435, 6.12.2021, p. 1).
    • [2] CAP strategic plan of Greece: https://www.agrotikianaptixi.gr/category/sskap-2023-2027/sskap-egkrisi-tropopoiiseis/.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – French intelligence services allegedly call on Telegram to censor conservative voices in Romania – E-002218/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002218/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Christine Anderson (ESN)

    Pavel Durov, the founder of the Telegram messaging platform, has stated publicly that in spring 2025 Nicolas Lerner, the head of France’s foreign intelligence service (DGSE), asked him to suppress conservative Romanian voices on Telegram in the run-up to the presidential elections in Romania[1]. Durov maintains that he rejected the request. The French authorities have firmly rejected the allegations and described them as unfounded.

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of any attempts by the French authorities or intelligence services to influence content on platforms such as Telegram in connection with the presidential elections in Romania, and how does the Commission assess such allegations with regard to upholding fundamental rights in the EU, in particular the freedom of speech and the freedom of information?
    • 2.What steps is the Commission taking to ensure that Member States do not exert undue influence on digital platforms, especially in the context of elections in other Member States?
    • 3.Is the Commission planning to look into these allegations and, if necessary, take action to protect the integrity of elections and the independence of digital communication platforms in the EU?

    Submitted: 3.6.2025

    • [1] https://t.me/durov/232
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Commissioners’ expenditure on personal services – follow-up to question P-001177/2023 – E-002216/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002216/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Christine Anderson (ESN)

    During a meeting at the German Bundestag, the new Commissioner for Budget Piotr Serafin stated that he pays for personal services such as hairdressers’ visits out of his own pocket and does not charge such costs to the EU budget. In the light of this welcome clarification relating to him personally, and of the previous priority question for written answer P-001177/2023[1] asking about the Commission’s expenditure on photographers, hairdressers and make-up artists, some follow-up questions arise.

    • 1.Since the beginning of the current mandate, which Members of the Commission – including the President of the Commission – have charged costs for photographers, hairdressers, make-up artists or similar personal services to the EU budget?
    • 2.Since the beginning of the current mandate, what is the total cost of the services mentioned in the priority question for written answer P-001177/2023 such as photography, hairdressing and make-up?
    • 3.Does the Commission plan, in the interests of budgetary discipline, to disclose such expenditure on its website in future, including on an individual basis, or to provide an annual breakdown?

    Submitted: 3.6.2025

    • [1] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/P-9-2023-001177_EN.html
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU funding of the Gesellschaft für Freiheitsrechte through intermediary organisations – E-002215/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002215/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Christine Anderson (ESN)

    The Gesellschaft für Freiheitsrechte (GFF – Society for Civil Rights) is a German non-governmental organization that engages in strategic legal action on fundamental rights issues within Germany and takes clear political positions – among other things, it is working to have the AfD banned as a political party. According to its own information, the GFF receives funding from various foundations, including the European AI & Society Fund. The GFF also received financial backing from the Digital Freedom Fund, which supports strategic lawsuits in the area of digital rights in Europe and receives project funding from the EU’s Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values programme.

    • 1.Have EU funds been channelled – directly or indirectly – to the GFF, in particular through support structures such as the European AI & Society Fund or the Digital Freedom Fund?
    • 2.If so, how does the Commission ensure that this funding is in line with the EU’s political neutrality, in particular where funded organisations influence the political discourse in a Member State through their activities?
    • 3.Does the Commission consider it appropriate that EU funds are used to support organisations that engage in legal action relating to national political disputes and what safeguards are in place to prevent possible political interference in Member States?

    Submitted: 3.6.2025

    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Self-sufficiency in plasma: a European necessity – E-002294/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002294/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Hilde Vautmans (Renew)

    The availability of human plasma is essential for the treatment of thousands of European patients suffering from rare or chronic diseases. At present, however, the EU is highly dependent on plasma imports from countries outside Europe, notably the United States. This dependence poses a strategic risk, especially in light of increasing global demand and geopolitical uncertainties. During the COVID-19 crisis, this vulnerability became painfully visible when patients in Europe faced shortages.

    Some Member States, including Belgium and Denmark, have already demonstrated that a model based on voluntary, unpaid donations is not only effective and scalable, but also ethical, safe and crisis resistant. This model offers a viable alternative to commercial systems and deserves recognition and support from Europe.

    • 1.Does the Commission recognise that human plasma is a strategic resource for public health in the EU?
    • 2.What steps is the Commission taking to develop a coordinated European strategy to ensure plasma self-sufficiency?
    • 3.How will the Commission actively support the model of voluntary, unpaid plasma donations within this strategic framework?

    Submitted: 6.6.2025

    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Ensuring fair and quality access to on-demand transport services for passengers and drivers in the EU – E-002252/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002252/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Rosa Serrano Sierra (S&D)

    In its Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy, the Commission promised to look into ways to make on-demand passenger transport services (taxis and private hire vehicles) more sustainable and efficient, while ensuring the smooth functioning of the single market and addressing social and safety concerns.

    However, the existing local and national rules are obsolete, fragmented and often disproportionate. On many occasions, this results in travel requests not being fulfilled and creates barriers for drivers. It also limits passenger mobility and hinders the smooth development of a single market for digital and cross-border transport services.

    The Single Market Strategy 2025 acknowledges these challenges and states that the Commission will ‘envisage actions for applying EU single market rules and principles to the taxi and private hired vehicles sector’.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.What specific measures will the Commission adopt to achieve harmonised, fair, safe and sustainable access to these mobility services in all Member States, and to ensure legal certainty for drivers, passengers and platforms?
    • 2.How does it intend to avoid further fragmentation of the sector in the EU?

    Submitted: 4.6.2025

    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Authorisation and regulation of trade in brown bear meat in Slovakia and its impact on the conservation of the species – E-002224/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002224/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    César Luena (S&D)

    The Slovak Government has recently announced that restaurants will be authorised to serve meat from brown bears culled under a law that is legally questionable. The brown bear (Ursus arctos) is a threatened species in Europe and is strictly protected. Before the meat is put on the market, companies will have to obtain a certificate of derogation attesting to the ‘legality’ of the cull and the safety of the meat. The decision has led to concerns about its impact on the conservation of biodiversity and the sustainable management of this species.

    • 1.What is the Commission’s official position on the authorisation to sell meat from brown bears, which are protected in the EU, and Slovakia’s criteria for granting certificates of derogation for this trade?
    • 2.What mechanisms and controls are in place at EU level for the marketing of meat from a species that is strictly protected by the Habitats Directive?
    • 3.What are the Commission’s recommendations for managing the brown bear population where it poses a threat to humans, taking into account non-lethal alternatives and protection of the bears’ natural habitat?

    Submitted: 3.6.2025

    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Compliance with the rule of law in Spain amid the wave of legal proceedings regarding corruption – E-002213/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002213/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Dolors Montserrat (PPE)

    There are an increasing number of legal proceedings involving those closest to the Prime Minister of Spain: his wife, his brother, the organisational secretary of the ruling party, and several former high-ranking government officials are all implicated in alleged cases of corruption, influence peddling, misappropriation of public funds and irregularities related to public procurement.

    The most egregious examples include:

    – the charges brought against the Prosecutor General of Spain for politically-motivated leaks of confidential information;

    – the initiation of legal proceedings against the Prime Minister’s brother for misconduct and influence peddling;

    – suspected circumvention of the law to obtain special immunity for regional leaders facing charges;

    – the involvement of former ministerial officials in allegedly rigged public contracts;

    – and the possible use of institutional influence to favour those associated with the ruling party who are close to Sánchez.

    The principles of the rule of law, the separation of powers and accountability are under threat.

    • 1.Does the Commission plan to include an explicit warning in its Rule of Law Report about these signs of structural corruption connected to the Spanish Government, as well as a warning about possible political interference in the legal proceedings currently under way?

    Submitted: 3.6.2025

    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Plan for preventing unfair competition – E-002222/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002222/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Maria Grapini (S&D)

    The previous Commission proposed a reindustrialisation programme.

    Sadly, European industry is being seriously affected by competition from third countries, which are selling products from all sectors onto the EU market at dumping prices.

    One example is the ceramics industry. Ceramics production is in peril in my country, Romania, as well as in other Member States, after companies invested hundreds of millions of euro in modernisation because of the different conditions imposed on European producers as compared to those in Asia (who do not have to pay to meet CO2 certification or water purification requirements, and where workers do not enjoy working conditions based on social standards, etc.).

    My question is: Does the Commission have a plan for preventing unfair competition, to save the ceramics industry?

    Submitted: 3.6.2025

    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Commission roadmap for marine protected areas before the 2025 UN Ocean Conference – E-002263/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002263/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Emma Fourreau (The Left), Sebastian Everding (The Left), Luke Ming Flanagan (The Left), Anja Hazekamp (The Left)

    Under the EU action plan ‘Protecting and restoring marine ecosystems for sustainable and resilient fisheries’[1], Member States were invited to submit roadmaps by March 2024 detailing measures enabling them to meet the targets of the EU 2030 Biodiversity Strategy. Such documents are key to ensuring the health of marine ecosystems and a just transition towards fair and regenerative low-impact fisheries, in a context where scientific reports show that much more action is needed to protect the ocean.

    As reported by Oceana, Seas At Risk, and ClientEarth[2], 13 Member States have not yet submitted their roadmaps or are refusing to make them public. Although some Member States have made efforts within some marine protected areas (MPAs), none have committed to phasing out bottom trawling in MPAs.

    • 1.How will the Commission ensure that all Member States submit their national roadmaps?
    • 2.What action has the Commission taken to support a fair and just transition under the ‘Marine Action Plan’, while improving the level of protection and co-management of MPAs?
    • 3.How will the upcoming Ocean Pact contribute to improving the implementation and follow-up of the measures of the ‘Marine Action Plan’ within the context of the 2025 UN Ocean Conference?

    Submitted: 4.6.2025

    • [1] https://oceans-and-fisheries.ec.europa.eu/policy/common-fisheries-policy-cfp/action-plan-protecting-and-restoring-marine-ecosystems-sustainable-and-resilient-fisheries_en.
    • [2] https://europe.oceana.org/press-releases/multiple-eu-countries-are-failing-to-stop-destructive-fishing-in-protected-areas-analysis-finds-as-several-face-legal-action/.
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Continuing lack of clarity relating to the working document on stoves – E-002220/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002220/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Beatrice Timgren (ECR), Charlie Weimers (ECR), Dick Erixon (ECR)

    In response to question E-001045/2025, the Commission stated that it would ensure that any changes made in connection with its review of the rules on solid fuel local space heaters would not have any negative effects.[1] The Commission also stated that it would ensure that any technical solutions would be compatible with manual operation of the appliance.

    The working document forming the background to the previously answered written question puts forward requirements for automatic combustion control systems. According to industry organisations, there is currently no scenario that would allow such a system to exist alongside manual operation of an appliance.

    With the above in mind:

    • 1.How will the Commission ensure that an automatic combustion control system is compatible with manual operation of appliances and, if manual operation proves impossible to reconcile with the proposed requirement for an automatic combustion control system, will it waive the requirement for such a system?
    • 2.How will the Commission ensure that the regulatory framework does not compel manufacturers to scale back the functionality of stoves?
    • 3.In view of the undertaking given in the answer to the question, will the Commission waive or modify other requirements set out in the working document, in particular as regards the limit value for carbon monoxide emissions?

    Submitted: 3.6.2025

    • [1] Changes to ecodesign requirements for stoves, E-001045/2025, https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2025-001045_EN.html.
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Consequences of the EU’s Waste Directive – E-002217/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002217/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Beatrice Timgren (ECR)

    Under Directive (EU) 2018/851, Member States are required to set up separate collections for textiles. The aim is to promote a more circular way of managing textile waste. In Sweden, the implementation of this requirement has already resulted in second-hand organisations being inundated with textiles. This is a problem because they do not have the storage space or the resources to deal with the volumes concerned. The organisations are warning that they are now receiving large quantities of clothes that are damaged or unusable.[1] Thanks to EU rules, shops are now forced to spend time and money on sorting large quantities of textiles and sending them for recycling.

    At the same time, local councils are warning that the textiles containers at recycling points are full to bursting. One council has now been forced to remove the containers because the collection firm cannot cope with the volumes.[2]

    In view of the above:

    • 1.What guidance are the Member States given on dealing with the practical challenges arising from municipal infrastructure being overwhelmed as a result of the Waste Directive?
    • 2.Has the Commission assessed the risk of second-hand organisations being overwhelmed with products that they cannot sell on, which is pushing costs up?
    • 3.What steps is the Commission taking to ward off the risk of second-hand organisations turning into waste-sorting centres, rather than operators that focus on re-use?

    Submitted: 3.6.2025

    • [1] https://www.sverigesradio.se/artikel/mer-skrap-till-second-hand-efter-nya-lagen-jattetrakigt
    • [2] https://www.tranastidning.se/2025-04-30/overfulla-behallare-efter-nya-lagen-nu-plockas-de-bort/
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Lifting of economic sanctions against Syria – E-002149/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002149/2025/rev.1
    to the Council
    Rule 144
    Jean-Paul Garraud (PfE)

    On 20 May 2025, the European Union announced that it would be lifting its economic sanctions against Syria, while maintaining the sanctions against those related to the Assad regime. The objective given is to help the country rebuild after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. However, the new Syrian President, Ahmed al-Charaa, also known as Abu Mohammed al-Joulani, is a former jihadist leader. He led the al-Nusra Front, Syria’s branch of Al-Qaeda, and then Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), considered a terrorist organisation by several countries. Despite this, Brussels has chosen to relax its position, raising questions about the coherence of EU policy, including on human rights and the fight against terrorism.

    • 1.How does the Council justify lifting economic sanctions against a government dominated by an organisation that the EU still classifies as a terrorist organisation?
    • 2.What guarantees can it provide to ensure that EU funds are not diverted to groups involved in human rights violations?
    • 3.Has it assessed the risk of the lifting of these sanctions strengthening actors hostile to European interests and undermining regional stability?

    Submitted: 28.5.2025

    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mfume Statement on Israel Strikes Against Iranian Nuclear and Military Targets

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07)

    BALTIMORE, MD – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07) issued the following statement regarding Israel’s strikes in Iran: 

    “In a region of the Middle East that has seen so much bloodshed, I urge President Trump and Secretary of State Rubio to work with great dispatch to prevent any further escalation between Israel and the un-Democratic regime in Iran which must not be allowed to develop nuclear capability,” said Congressman Kweisi Mfume. “The United States must continue to work with all Democratic allies in the Middle East to forge a path towards stability—and to protect the lives of American servicemembers, diplomats, and innocent civilians who are the victims of war,” he concluded.  

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn Texas Border Security Reimbursement Provision Included in Senate’s One Big Beautiful Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after the Senate Committee on the Judiciary and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs released their legislative text for the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which includes provisions he authored that would provide $13.5 billion in funding to reimburse states like Texas for stepping up and trying to secure the southern border during the Biden-Harris administration:

    “No state did more to protect and defend the southern border during the disastrous Biden-Harris open border crisis than Texas, and I am proud that my provision to reimburse Texas taxpayers for the more than $11 billion spent on border security has been included in the Senate’s One Big Beautiful Bill,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This is a win for Governor Abbott and the Texas Republican congressional delegation, who I worked with closely to ensure this reimbursement was made a priority and did not leave the people of Texas on the hook for the costs of Biden’s failed border policies. I was proud to lead this push in the Senate, and I look forward to voting for the One Big Beautiful Bill with this border security reimbursement for Texas included in the coming weeks.”

    Background:

    Senator Cornyn has led the fight in Washington to secure federal reimbursement for Texas by:

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ninth edition of “Genesis and Spirit” exhibition and demonstration series opens and showcases highlights of Jiangxi ICH (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Ninth edition of “Genesis and Spirit” exhibition and demonstration series opens and showcases highlights of Jiangxi ICH  
         Addressing the opening ceremony today (June 13), the Under Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Raistlin Lau, said that the “Genesis and Spirit” exhibition and demonstration series has reached its ninth edition and has consistently been a key collaboration project for the preservation of ICH in the country and Hong Kong. Jiangxi Province and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area have close ties in terms of geographical proximity and social interactions with deep historical connections and shared a cultural foundation. The Hakka community is characterised by its simplicity and warmth, drawing from nature to nurture world ICH such as Gannan Hakka Pounded Tea Making Technique. Through exploration of nature and dedicated craftsmanship, they also inherited national ICH such as Gannan Hakka Clothes. This exhibition provides a chance for Hong Kong people to understand and experience Jiangxi’s Hakka culture and traditional craftsmanship, and resonate with the shared heritage and common roots of Jiangxi and Hong Kong.
     
         Other officiating guests included the Director of the Asia Tourism Exchange Center of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Mr Zhang Dong; the Deputy Director General of the Department of Publicity, Cultural and Sports Affairs of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Mr Li Shuguang; member of the Party Leadership Group and Vice Mayor of the Ganzhou Municipal People’s Government, Jiangxi, Mr Zou Zhiyu; the Director of Leisure and Cultural Services, Ms Manda Chan; the Chairperson of the ICH Advisory Committee, Professor Ricardo Mak; member of the Party Leadership Group and Deputy Director of the Ganzhou Municipal Bureau of Culture, Media and Tourism, Jiangxi, Ms Xia Hanhan; the Deputy Director of the Xiangdong Culture, Media and Tourism Bureau of the Pingxiang Municipality, Mr Chen Shugang; and the Head of the Intangible Cultural Heritage Office (ICHO), Ms Judith Ng.
     
         The exhibition is divided into four sections, including “Elegance of Hakka Culture”, introducing traditional techniques integrated into Hakka everyday lives; “Heavenly Creations”, displaying crafts with unique artistic styles; “Fragrant Tea of Jiangxi”, which showcases traditional Chinese tea making techniques inscribed onto UNESCO’s Representative List of the ICH of Humanity; as well as “Scent of Calligraphy and Ink”, with traditional skills of making “The Four Treasures of the Study”.
     
         Visitors can also appreciate three world ICH items in Jiangxi at a glance, namely Wuyuan Green Tea Making Technique, Ning Black Tea Making Technique and Gannan Hakka Pounded Tea Making Technique, as well as 10 representative items of the national ICH, including Shicheng Lantern Festival, Gannan Hakka Clothes, Pingxiang Xiangdong Nuo Masks, Jingdezhen Porcelain Making Technique, Ruichang Bamboo Weaving, Ramie Embroidery, Jialu Paper Umbrella Making Technique, Yanshan Liansi Paper Making Technique, Wengang Chinese Brush Making Technique and Shicheng Inkstone Making Technique.
     
         Over 100 sessions of performances, demonstrations, talks and interactive experiential activities during the exhibition period will be organised. Nearly 70 representative bearers of ICH and performers from Jiangxi, including Representative Bearers of the National ICH, National Class One Performer and renowned art groups will give demonstrations of various craftsmanship on-site. Members of the public can also participate in experiential activities including Longnan Hakka Patterned Band Weaving Technique, Gannan Hakka Paper Cutting, Hakka Bamboo Carving Technique in Zhanggong District.
     
         It is also the first time that the exhibition will extend beyond the exhibition venue to the community and schools through mobile displays and experiential activities, to enable the public and students to experience the profound Hakka culture in depth.
     
         The exhibition is supported by the Department of Publicity, Cultural and Sports Affairs, Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, organised by the Jiangxi Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism and the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, curated by the Ganzhou Municipal Bureau of Culture, Media and Tourism, the Pingxiang Municipal Bureau of Culture, Media and Tourism and the ICHO.
     
         This exhibition is one of the programmes of Hong Kong ICH Month 2025, Chinese Culture Festival 2025 and the Chinese Culture Promotion Series. For more details, please visit the ICHO’s website at www.icho.hk/en/web/icho/genesis_and_spirit_2025.htmlIssued at HKT 20:20

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –