Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Impact of the closure of USAID on Latin America, in particular on the seven million Venezuelan refugees – E-000576/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000576/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Francisco Assis (S&D)

    The freezing of aid provided by the US Agency for International Development will harm vulnerable populations around the world. Having been a priority for USAID, Latin America will be one of the most affected regions with the end of humanitarian assistance and civil society support programmes on various fronts.

    One of the most worrying consequences of the announced dismantling of USAID concerns the seven million Venezuelans who, fleeing poverty and authoritarianism in their country, have sought refuge in neighbouring countries, such as Colombia (the biggest beneficiary of this agency in the region), or who are living precariously in refugee camps, such as on the border with Brazil.

    Recently, the EU has demonstrated a geopolitical commitment to South America and its development with the conclusion of a historic agreement with Mercosur.

    In light of the above:

    • 1.How does the Commission intend to mitigate the impact of the end of USAID on the humanitarian situation of Venezuelan refugees?
    • 2.Is the Commission prepared to move forward with alternative sources of funding to maintain the aforesaid programmes in the region thereby sending a powerful political message to the world with this gesture?

    Submitted: 7.2.2025

    Last updated: 5 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Commission funding of Mercosur countries – E-000586/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000586/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Piotr Müller (ECR)

    On 6 December 2024, the EU and Mercosur countries (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay) concluded negotiations on a partnership agreement, which had been ongoing intermittently since 2000. The agreement covers three main areas: trade, political dialogue and sectoral cooperation, including migration, the digital economy and human rights.

    The Commission has announced that it will provide EUR 1.8 billion to support the green and digital transitions in Mercosur countries. These funds are to come from the EU budget as part of the Global Gateway initiative. This decision has caused controversy because some observers believe it may be a form of incentive or pressure to finalise the trade agreement.

    In this context, I would welcome answers to the following questions:

    • 1.Is the allocation of EUR 1.8 billion to Mercosur countries in any way dependent on the eventual signing and ratification of the EU-Mercosur trade agreement?
    • 2.Do these funds form part of the political conditions attached to the negotiation of the trade agreement? If so, who made this decision and how was it made?
    • 3.Did the Commission consult the Member States on the decision to allocate funds to the Mercosur countries before it was taken? If so, what procedure was followed and which countries were consulted?

    Please provide precise answers to these questions.

    Submitted: 9.2.2025

    Last updated: 5 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI: Tower Semiconductor to Showcase its Next-Generation BCD Technology at APEC 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Presenting Advanced Power Management Solutions for Automotive, AI, Mobile, and Data Center Applications 

    MIGDAL HAEMEK, Israel, March 5, 2025 Tower Semiconductor (NASDAQ/TASE: TSEM), a leading foundry of high-value analog semiconductor solutions, today announced its participation in the upcoming 2025 Applied Power Electronics Conference (APEC), taking place March 17–19 in Atlanta, Georgia. The Company will highlight its cutting-edge power management technology platform with its high-efficiency power conversion capabilities including the latest 300mm 65nm 3.3V-based BCD solution, designed to meet the growing demands of Automotive, AI, Mobile PMIC, and Data Center power delivery.

    Tower’s industry-leading 0.18μm (200mm) and 65nm (300mm) Bipolar-CMOS-DMOS (BCD) platforms drive innovation across a broad range of applications, including driver ICs, battery management, portable power solutions, PC power control, and high-voltage gate drivers. With its recently announced 3.3V gate oxide technology offering 3.3V and 5V-based solutions as well as a comprehensive suite of design enablement tools, Tower continues to set new benchmarks in power efficiency, enabling next-generation solutions for a variety of high-demand sectors.

    Presentation schedule:
    Tower Semiconductor’s BCD Technology Foundry Offerings: From Automotive to Datacenter Power
    By Dr. Mete Erturk, Sr. Director, Power Management Marketing
    Date: March 19, 2025
    Time: 12:45 PM – 1:15 PM
    Location: A312

    To meet with Tower’s engineering team at APEC 2025, visit booth #1148.

    For more information on Tower’s Power Management solutions, visit here.

    About Tower Semiconductor         

    Tower Semiconductor Ltd. (NASDAQ/TASE: TSEM), the leading foundry of high-value analog semiconductor solutions, provides technology, development, and process platforms for its customers in growing markets such as consumer, industrial, automotive, mobile, infrastructure, medical and aerospace and defense. Tower Semiconductor focuses on creating a positive and sustainable impact on the world through long-term partnerships and its advanced and innovative analog technology offering, comprised of a broad range of customizable process platforms such as SiGe, BiCMOS, mixed-signal/CMOS, RF CMOS, CMOS image sensor, non-imaging sensors, displays, integrated power management (BCD and 700V), photonics, and MEMS. Tower Semiconductor also provides world-class design enablement for a quick and accurate design cycle as well as process transfer services including development, transfer, and optimization, to IDMs and fabless companies. To provide multi-fab sourcing and extended capacity for its customers, Tower Semiconductor owns one operating facility in Israel (200mm), two in the U.S. (200mm), two in Japan (200mm and 300mm) which it owns through its 51% holdings in TPSCo, shares a 300mm facility in Agrate, Italy with STMicroelectronics as well as has access to a 300mm capacity corridor in Intel’s New Mexico factory. For more information, please visit: www.towersemi.com.

    Safe Harbor Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release includes forward-looking statements, which are subject to risks and uncertainties. Actual results may vary from those projected or implied by such forward-looking statements. A complete discussion of risks and uncertainties that may affect the accuracy of forward-looking statements included in this press release or which may otherwise affect Tower’s business is included under the heading “Risk Factors” in Tower’s most recent filings on Forms 20-F, F-3, F-4 and 6-K, as were filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and the Israel Securities Authority. Tower does not intend to update, and expressly disclaim any obligation to update, the information contained in this release. 

    ###

    Tower Semiconductor Company Contact: Orit Shahar | +972-74-7377440 | oritsha@towersemi.com

    Investor Relations Contact: Liat Avraham | +972-4-6506154 | liatavra@towersemi.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Video: Title: Know2Protect®: Together We Can Stop Online Exploitation

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Online child sexual exploitation and abuse (CSEA) is a growing threat that targets some of the most vulnerable people in our communities – our children and teens. Lack of understanding of online CSEA and increased technology use among children and teens has created space for these crimes to flourish. Know2Protect® is a Department of Homeland Security national public awareness campaign designed to educate and empower children, teens, parents, trusted adults and policymakers to prevent and combat online CSEA. This campaign provides essential information on how to report online enticement and victimization and offers response and support resources for victims and survivors of online CSEA.

    Visit https://www.dhs.gov/know2protect for resources to protect our children.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-xmAEmtNJY

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: Intuitive Machines-2 Lunar Landing (Official NASA Broadcast)

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Watch Intuitive Machines’ Nova-C lunar lander, Athena, touch down on the Moon. Athena will land at Mons Mouton, a lunar plateau near the Moon’s South Pole, delivering NASA science and technology to the Moon’s surface. Landing is slated for no earlier than 12:32 p.m. EST (1732 UTC).

    The NASA tech aboard the lander will demonstrate resource utilization on the Moon by measuring the possible presence of volatiles or gases from lunar soil and give future spacecraft a permanent reference point on the lunar surface.

    This is Intuitive Machines’ second Moon landing as part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative. To learn more about CLPS, visit https://go.nasa.gov/3RFR0A5.

    Credit: NASA

    #NASA #Moon #Artemis

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOPL8nhmQU4

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Statement on President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) issued the following statement after the President’s Joint Address to Congress:  

    “When I talk to New Hampshire families, farmers, small business owners, seniors, doctors or shipyard employees, I hear a desire for elected representatives to work together and find common ground on solutions that will help make their lives better. Yet what we heard tonight from the President was the opposite. He chose to lean into division over unity, chaos over calm and lies over facts – none of which stand to make America or the families we serve safer, stronger or more prosperous. 

    “Right now, Granite Staters are facing higher prices and uncertainty about the future. I was disappointed the President neglected to offer a path forward on issues that are top of mind for our constituents—like costs at the grocery store, health care affordability, the housing crisis, workforce and child care challenges. These are issues deeply personal to many, and I will remain focused on bringing forward solutions to make life better and more affordable for all. 

    “I was honored to be joined by my constituent Rebecca Hamilton, who owns and operates Badger, a Granite State small business that manufactures personal care products. Rebecca’s business will be badly hurt by the President’s reckless tariff tax on goods from Canada – and sadly, her story is all too common in New Hampshire. Small and large businesses alike will be forced to pass the price hike on imported goods onto consumers because they can’t afford to foot the bill alone.   

    “Once again, I find myself wishing that the President would spend more time focusing on lowering costs like he insisted he would and less time creating chaos. America is the best country in the world because of the values that unite us and our alliances around the globe that make us stronger. I sincerely hope the President will change course and focus instead on the values and opportunities that unite us as Americans.” 

    Shaheen’s guest to the Joint Address of Congress was Rebecca Hamilton, the co-owner and co-CEO of Badger in Gilsum, New Hampshire. Badger, a family-owned manufacturer of natural personal care products, is one of dozens of small businesses in New Hampshire that have already been impacted by the uncertainty around President Trump’s tariffs and could be devastated by the tariffs on Mexico and Canada—New Hampshire’s largest trading partner—that went into effect at midnight. 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK consultancy company highlights 2025 risks for businesses

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    UK consultancy company highlights 2025 risks for businesses

    In 2025, global risks to business will be driven by power vacuums and polarisation, conflict, and the double-edged sword of technological advancement.

    UK based consultancy company Control Risks presented the RiskMap2025 in Guatemala City on 4 March. The event took place at the British Residence with attendance of the British Ambassador, Juliana Correa; government contacts, businesspeople and decision makers.

    According to the RiskMap2025 events will be dominated by the change of administration in the US, ongoing conflicts such as the Ukraine war, increased trade barriers, more political violence and digital concentration of leading technologies, amongst other topics. Marina Pera, Control Risks analyst gave the presentation.

    The British Embassy is committed to support our economic ties with Guatemala with tools such as the RiskMap2025, to encourage better informed decisions and drive prosperity.

    To see the full RiskMap2025, please visit https://www.controlrisks.com/riskmap.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: 21 Shares AG (the “Company”) – Announcement regarding changes to the board of Directors of the Company

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    21 Shares AG (the “Company”) – Announcement regarding changes to the board of Directors of the Company
     
    We are pleased to announce the following changes to the board of Directors of the Company  effective as of 1 March 2025
    * The appointment of Russell Barlow as chairman of the board of directors and Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”);
    * The appointment of Duncan Moir as a member of the board of directors and President. 
    * The appointment of Edel Bashir as a member of the board of directors and Chief Operating Officer (“COO”).

    Russell Barlow, 51, is contributing more than 25 years of expertise in regulated asset management. Previously, Russell was the Global Head of Multi Asset and Alternative Investment Solutions and Global Head of Alternatives at abrdn. Over the course of his career, he has designed, launched, and managed a wide range of investment products. Additionally, Russell has held a position as a Non-Executive Director at Archax, the UK’s first FCA-regulated digital asset exchange.

    Duncan Moir, 39, has deep expertise in crypto and blockchain strategy. Previously, Duncan was a Senior Investment Manager at abrdn. He is an independent board member of Hedera Hashgraph LLC and an advisor to Web3 companies. A University of Strathclyde graduate with a BA (Hons) in Economics, he is also a CFA and CAIA charterholder.

    Edel Bashir, 45, has over 20 years of experience in asset management. Previously, Edel was the COO of Multi Asset and Alternative Investment Solutions, COO of Alternatives and a Senior Investment Manager at abrdn. Her expertise includes operational strategy, portfolio management, and hedge fund research. A graduate of University College Cork, Ireland, with a BSc in Finance, she has held senior roles across Bermuda, Dublin, and Boston.

    Following the appointment of the aforementioned people as members of the board of directors, Hany Rashwan (former chairman of the board of directors and CEO) and Ophelia Snyder (former member of the board of directors and Chief Product Officer) resigned from their roles as directors of the Company on 1 March 2025, at which point the above mentioned individuals will assume responsibility for the aforementioned roles.

    Name, registered office and address of the Company:
    21Shares AG is a stock corporation under the laws of Switzerland. It has its registered office and address at Pelikanstrasse 37, 8001 Zurich.

    Contact Details:
    21Shares AG, attn. Mr. Eric Baumgartner, Pelikanstrasse 37, 8001 Zurich, Switzerland, email: legal@21.co
     
    Further Information:
    For further information, please refer to the Programme documentation, in particular the EU Base Prospectus dated November 28, 2024, the UK Base Prospectus dated May 22, 2024 , and the respective Final Terms as applicable. This Announcement neither constitutes a prospectus nor advertisement within the meaning of the Swiss Financial Services Act. Copies of the prospectus and any supplements thereto, if any, as well as copies of all transaction documents are available free of charge at 21Shares AG, Zurich (email: etp@21shares.com).

    Date of publication:
    5 March 2025
     
    * * *
    This document is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy or subscribe for securities of 21Shares AG.
    This document and the information contained herein is not for publication or distribution into the United States of America and should not be distributed or otherwise transmitted into the United States or to U.S. persons (as defined in the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act) or publications with a general circulation in the United States. This document does not constitute an offer or invitation to subscribe for or to purchase any securities in the United States of America. The securities referred to herein have not been and will not be registered under the Securities Act or the laws of any state and may not be offered or sold in the United States of America absent registration or an exemption from registration under Securities Act. There will be no public offering of the securities in the United States of America.
     
    The products are exchange traded products, which do not qualify as units of a collective investment scheme according to the relevant provisions of the Swiss Federal Act on Collective Investment Schemes (CISA), as amended, and are not licensed thereunder. Therefore, the products are neither governed by the CISA nor supervised or approved by the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority FINMA (FINMA). Accordingly, Investors do not have the benefit of the specific investor protection provided under the CISA.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Michelle Doyle-Lowe: Effective oversight is vital to the smooth operation of our payments system

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Good morning everyone and welcome to this important training initiative that is being facilitated by the World Bank, as part of Barbados’ Payments System Modernisation Project. I am Michelle Doyle, Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Barbados, and Executive Sponsor for this project.  Whether you are joining us in person or online, a warm Monday morning welcome to the World Bank team, the CEO of our sister regulator, the Financial Services Commission (FSC), Warrick Ward, and his team, as well as members of the Central Bank’s Executive, management, and members of staff.

    The modernisation of our payments system is not merely an infrastructural upgrade; it is a leap toward creating a more resilient, responsive, and innovative financial ecosystem that will further serve the evolving needs of Barbadians and our economy. This project represents the Central Bank’s vision for a future where financial transactions are seamless, secure, interoperable, and accessible to all.

    The role of the Central Bank to oversee the development of our payments market is well established in our legislative structures such as the National Payments System Act and the Central Bank Act. This mandate to monitor and regulate the payments system is underpinned by the fact that Payments are the backbone of the financial system and impact on financial system stability and integrity. Effective payments oversight is therefore vital for ensuring the smooth operation of financial transactions to mitigate risks and protect consumers. In addition, the Central Bank’s collaboration with the FSC on payments oversight is vital for adequate governance and regulation of our evolving payments ecosystem.                   

    Let me take this opportunity to introduce and thank key members of the World Bank team who have been supporting us over the last couple of months to advance the five workstreams that are required to make this modernisation project a success. The Payments Oversight workstream is augmented by the legal and regulatory review workstream; the procurement and implementation of an Instant Payment System; the operationalisation of new payment functionality such as QR codes, etc.; and the digital financial literacy workstream to drive the adoption of digital payments in our market. We have Nicholas Smith, Senior Financial Sector Specialist – whom many of us have come to fondly refer to as Nick, given our frequent calls, touchpoint meetings, and WhatsApp messages on all matters related to this project. 

    We are also fortunate to have with us the World Bank experts who will be facilitating this three-day session:

    • Corina Arteche – is a consultant with the World Bank for more than 10 years, specialising in payment system reform strategies and the implementation of the oversight function. Previously, Corina was a manager at the Central Bank of Venezuela where she was responsible for off-site supervision of financial institutions and oversight of the payment and settlement systems. Corina holds a Master’s degree in Information and Communication Technology Applied to Education from the Complutense University of Madrid and a Postgraduate Diploma in Economics from the University of Manchester. She has been integral to the development of our Payments Oversight workstream, and capacity building in this area.
    • Holti Banka – is a Senior Financial Sector Specialist with the Payments Systems Development Group of the World Bank. Some of you may remember Holti as a panellist at last year’s Annual Review Seminar. His work covers different aspects of retail payments including fast payments, national payment strategies, cost measurement of payment instruments, and payments infrastructure interoperability, among others. Holti has participated in numerous payments related conferences, published articles in several academic journals and is on the Editorial Board of the Journal of Payments Strategy and Systems. He received his PhD in International Development/Economic Policy from the University of Maryland.

    Let me also take this opportunity to introduce other members of the World Bank Team joining us online- Ragheb al Buderi (Payment Systems and Procurement Consultant), Elize Jackson (Technical Consultant), Bernardo Barradas (Payment Systems Legal Consultant). 

    Throughout this three-day session, we will cover the key components of the payments oversight function, including: 

    1. Objectives of payments oversight 
    2. Components of the national payment system 
    3. Guidelines for off-site oversight 
    4. Assessment of systemically important payment systems using PFMI 
    5. Assessment methodologies for retail payment systems; and 
    6. Oversight of payment service providers

    Corina, you have a diverse group of participants. Beyond our Bank Supervision team, there are representatives from various departments across the Central Bank, such as Operations, Foreign Exchange and Fund Management, Management Information Systems, and Research and Economic Analysis, to name a few. We are all in your capable hands. Rest assured, we have had our coffee or tea and look forward to your insights and guidance, as we roll-up our sleeves to cover the breadth of material that you have prepared for the next few days.  I encourage each of you to ask questions and to share your thoughts during the presentations and break-out sessions. 

    Whether you are joining us virtually or in person, thank you for your attention and commitment to this important initiative. Let us seize this opportunity to learn, collaborate, and innovate. I wish you a productive, engaging, and enlightening workshop.

    I now turn over to the World Bank team to commence the session, and to Runako Brathwaite, Deputy Director in our Payments Oversight Unit, whom has worked assiduously to make this session a reality.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Russian Engineering Academy awarded SPbGASU two I.A. Grishmanov prizes

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Competition coordinator, member of the presidium (bureau) of the Russian Engineering Academy Vitaly Lozhkin, president of the academy Boris Gusev and Alexey Kharitonov

    On February 27, the Russian Engineering Academy hosted the I. A. Grishmanov Prize award ceremony. Among the laureates were Aleksey Kharitonov, Doctor of Engineering, Associate Professor, Professor of the Department of Construction Materials Technology and Metrology of our university, and the Publishing and Printing Department of SPbGASU.

    Alexey Kharitonov is known in the country and abroad as a scientist in the field of construction materials science. His specialization is the creation of effective materials for the restoration of cultural heritage sites – architectural monuments. The researcher makes a great contribution to the development of university science and construction education in the country, and has been engaged in scientific and pedagogical activities for 25 years.

    Alexey Kharitonov is a member of the dissertation council of SPbGASU and the scientific and technical council of the Housing Committee of the Government of St. Petersburg, a member of the editorial board of the journal “Cement and Its Applications”, included in the list of the Higher Attestation Commission of the Russian Federation. Author and co-author of more than 140 published scientific and educational-methodical works, including 130 scientific articles, 11 educational-methodical works, 4 inventions. The scientist’s merits have been noted by numerous letters of gratitude and certificates of honor.

    In 2019–2020, the scientist, as an organizer of materials science research, participated in the development of scientific and design documentation for the restoration of the Legislative Palace (parliament building) in the capital of Uruguay, Montevideo, and in 2022–2023 – the Triumphal Arch in Palmyra, Syria. The projects were highly praised by the UNESCO International Expert Council.

    The Publishing and Printing Department (IPD) is a structural division of SPbGASU, headed by Tatyana Razumova since 2007. The IPO has a full production cycle for publishing educational and scientific publications, from editorial preparation of manuscripts to layout and printing. Every year, the IPO publishes more than one hundred titles of educational and scientific publications. All of them are sent to the scientific and technical library in printed and electronic form. Electronic copies of publications are placed in the university’s full-text database.

    Books by SPbGASU teachers, published in IPO, have repeatedly become prize winners of prestigious festivals and competitions. The published editions arouse wide interest and receive recognition from the professional community.

    The I. A. Grishmanov Prize is awarded for scientific and technical developments that have been implemented in mass production, as well as for achievements in the organization of industry in the field of building materials and structures. It is named after the Minister of the Construction Materials Industry of the USSR Ivan Aleksandrovich Grishmanov (1906–1979), a graduate of the Leningrad Civil Engineering Institute (now SPbGASU).

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement From Energy Secretary Chris Wright on President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright released the following statement after President Trump’s joint address to Congress:

    “Tonight, President Trump outlined a bold vision for America. Under his leadership, the Department of Energy is cutting red tape, dismantling Biden’s job-killing regulations, and putting consumers back in control. Common-sense energy policies are replacing burdensome government overreach, ensuring affordability, reliability, and efficiency remain top priorities. We’ve ended the LNG export freeze, halted burdensome appliance mandates, and identified hundreds of millions of dollars in government waste—lowering costs, strengthening America’s energy future, and restoring accountability to Washington.

    “Under President Trump’s leadership, America is ready to lead the world in energy, technology and innovation once again. A strong energy foundation, expanded energy infrastructure, more American ingenuity, and fewer barriers mean a stronger America. And we’re just getting started.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Global Leaders Convene in Rome for the 2025 IDEAS-NDB Conference on Evaluation for Transformational Change

    Source: New Development Bank

    Rome, Italy, 5 March 2025: Global leaders, policymakers and evaluation experts have come together in Rome for the first day of the 2025 IDEAS-NDB Conference, on the topic of “Multi-Dimensional Evaluation for Influence & Transformation”. Jointly organised by International Development Evaluation Association (IDEAS) and the Independent Evaluation Office (IEO) of the New Development Bank (NDB), the conference will examine how evaluation can drive real-world transformational change in today’s complex global landscape. Lasting for two days, the event is being held at the headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

    With the world facing rising geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, climate change and widening social inequities, the role of evaluation in shaping evidence-based decision-making has never been more crucial.

    The FAO Director-General Dr. Qu Dongyu highlighted the important role of evaluation as the cornerstone of learning and innovation to ensure effective sustainable development policies, stating: “We cannot solve food security challenges without understanding efficiency, effectiveness and the impacts of investment. Evaluation must move beyond metrics – it must shape the policies and innovations that will help us ensure sufficient and healthy foods for future generations. I believe that this conference can be a stepping-stone towards driving meaningful progress.”

    The event welcomed around 400 global delegates, with Professor Michael Kremer, winner of the 2019 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economics, delivering the keynote speech on the conference theme of multi-dimensional evaluation for influence and transformation. He was joined by senior government officials, policy and decision-makers, high-level officials and heads of evaluation offices from major multilateral development institutions, and representatives of academic and research institutions, non-governmental organizations, the private sector and others.

    Over the two days, the conference will feature high-level discussions, expert panels, and strategy sessions examining a range of interconnected themes crucial to evaluation’s role in tackling the world’s most pressing challenges. These include how evaluation supports progress in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and understanding the complex relationships between the goals; addressing the nexus of climate change, crises, and development through robust evaluation; recognising the importance of context and culture in shaping evaluation practices; mainstreaming gender equality, human rights, and equity within evaluation frameworks; building evaluation capacity at all levels; and exploring evaluation for sustainable development in the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) and other emerging markets and developing countries (EMDCs), which are priority areas for NDB.

    With participation from government agencies, multilateral institutions, the private sector, civil society organisations, and evaluation professionals, the event serves as a global call to action—pushing for more impact-driven, inclusive, and forward-looking evaluation frameworks.

    Ashwani K. Muthoo, Director General of IEO at NDB underscored the urgency for evaluators to change and innovate: “Evaluation must evolve to reflect the complexity of today’s world. We must go beyond traditional metrics to capture lived experiences, measure systemic change, and ensure that development efforts truly reach those who need them most.”

    ——————————

    New Development Bank (NDB)

    NDB is a multilateral bank established in 2015 by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) with the aim of mobilising resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in BRICS countries and emerging markets and developing countries (EMDCs). In alignment with its members’ development objectives and commitments under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement, NDB prioritises high-impact operations that are climate-smart, disaster-resilient, technology-integrated, and socially inclusive. NDB’s Independent Evaluation Office (IEO) is responsible for independently evaluating the Bank’s policies, strategies, processes, initiatives and operations. IEO also contributes and provides oversight to improve the effectiveness of the Bank’s quality assurance and self-evaluation activities.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: 30 projects awarded funding to celebrate Windrush Day

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    30 projects awarded funding to celebrate Windrush Day

    Ahead of Windrush Day on 22 June, 30 projects have received funding to celebrate the Windrush Generation and their descendants

    • Ahead of Windrush Day on 22 June, 30 projects have received funding to celebrate the Windrush Generation and their descendants
    • The money will support community-led initiatives across England to take place this summer, creating more opportunities for people to learn about and commemorate their contribution to the UK
    • An array of projects will receive a share of £500,000 funding to support their activities in celebration of Windrush Day

    Thirty groups have been awarded a share of a £500,000 funding pot dedicated to supporting organisations and projects that commemorate, celebrate and educate people on the contribution of the Windrush Generation.  

    Funding will support projects to deliver an array of events across the country on National Windrush Day, 22 June, that will engage with people across generations to celebrate the legacy of the Windrush Generation and their descendants and the significant contributions they’ve made to the UK’s social, economic and cultural life.

    The funding will support organisations in delivering their projects, helping towards our Plan for Change mission of breaking down barriers to opportunity and enhancing the education of our young people.

    Minister for Faith, Lord Khan said:  

    Our diversity is a great strength of our country, and the Windrush Generation has been fundamental in creating the Britain we have today.  

    Their contributions are vast and broad, extending into all aspects of life, and I’m grateful to all the wonderful organisations we’ve funded this year for their hard work to celebrate their legacy and keep the Windrush memory alive.

    We’re on a mission to break down barriers to opportunity through our Plan for Change and this funding is crucial in helping organisations continue with their incredible work and in supporting the education of our young people on such a vital part of our country’s history.

    Among the many organisations being funded is theatre and arts company Sudden Productions in Birmingham that is bringing older members of the Windrush generation together with African Caribbean Artists to revive songs that bring their memories of Windrush to life. In doing so, they will work together to devise a one-man show, My Songs of Windrush.

    Another, production company Inspiring Audio in South East London, is working with radio station Fun Kids to create a unique three week radio station for children that celebrates Caribbean music while educating the younger generation on the contributions of the Windrush Generation and their descendants.

    Gregory Watson, director at Inspiring Audio said:

    Inspiring Audio is very excited to have been awarded a Windrush Day Grant to create a special radio station – ‘Fun Kids Windrush’ – which will give children a unique opportunity to learn about the arrival and contribution of the Windrush generation and its descendants, and celebrate the sound of the Caribbean – from calypso and soca to steel pan and reggae.

    Between the arrival of HMT Empire Windrush in 1948 and 1971, thousands of people from the Caribbean, including Jamaica, Trinidad, St Lucia, Grenada and Barbados, arrived in the UK to support the county in rebuilding after World War II. In coming to the UK, they helped to rebuild Britain by filling the significant labour shortage as a result of the loss of life during the war. Many had also contributed to the war effort too and were veterans themselves, having bravely answered the call to support the British Armed Forces. 

    Since then, they and their descendants have become leaders and entrepreneurs, nurses and doctors, musicians and athletes – contributing to and enhancing every aspect of our national life to make Britain what it is today.

    This year saw a record number of applicants to the Windrush Day Grant Scheme, reflecting the enthusiasm in communities across the country to celebrate the legacy of the Windrush Generation and ensure generations to come are able to learn about the significant contributions they have had to our national life.

    A full list of projects supported by the Windrush Day Grant Scheme can be found here.

    Notes to editors:

    • Since the Windrush Day Grant Scheme began seven years ago, 268 projects have been funded by a total £3.75m.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 25

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL5

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 25
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    315 AM EST Wed Mar 5 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    North Florida
    Southern into Southeast Georgia
    Southern South Carolina
    Coastal Waters

    * Effective this Wednesday morning from 315 AM until 1000 AM EST.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible
    A tornado or two possible

    SUMMARY…A squall line will move eastward across the Watch area
    overnight into the morning. Damaging gusts ranging 55-70 mph are
    possible with the stronger inflections and bowing segments within
    the convective line. A brief tornado is also possible.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 90
    statute miles east and west of a line from 55 miles north northeast
    of Vidalia GA to 55 miles south of Valdosta GA. For a complete
    depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
    (WOUS64 KWNS WOU5).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
    Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
    weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
    warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 23…WW 24…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    0.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 350. Mean storm motion vector
    26035.

    …Smith

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW5
    WW 25 SEVERE TSTM FL GA SC CW 050815Z – 051500Z
    AXIS..90 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    55NNE VDI/VIDALIA GA/ – 55S VLD/VALDOSTA GA/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 80NM E/W /48S IRQ – 26NNW CTY/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..0.5 INCH. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 350. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 26035.

    LAT…LON 32918046 29988178 29988478 32918356

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU5.

    Watch 25 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Low (20%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low ( 65 knots

    Low (20%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Low ( 2 inches

    Low (

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: United States Arrests ISIS-K Attack Planner for Role in Killing of U.S. Military Service Members at Abbey Gate, Afghanistan

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Note: View the affidavit and complaint here.

    On March 2, 2025, the United States charged Mohammad Sharifullah, also known as “Jafar,” a member of the terrorist organization the Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham-Khorasan Province (ISIS-K), with providing and conspiring to provide material support and resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization resulting in death, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2339B. Sharifullah has been arrested and is expected to appear in the Eastern District of Virginia on March 5, 2025.

    “This evil ISIS-K terrorist orchestrated the brutal murder of 13 heroic Marines,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Under President Trump’s strong leadership on the world stage, this Department of Justice will ensure that terrorists like Mohammad Sharifullah have no safe haven, no second chances, and no worse enemy than the United States of America.”

    “The lethal attack that killed 13 American service members and Afghan civilians during the U.S. troop withdrawal from Afghanistan was an act of terrorism,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “ISIS-K brazenly claimed responsibility for the carnage. Now thanks to the assistance of the FBI, Department of Justice, and the CIA, we have secured Sharifullah’s apprehension and transport to the U.S. to face American justice. The FBI will never forget the loss of these American heroes, we will continue to hunt down those who viciously murdered our warriors, we will find all responsible and bring them to justice.”

    “The charges announced today carry an unmistakable message: the commitment of the United States to hold accountable all who facilitate and carry out acts of terror against us will never waver,” said U.S. Attorney Erik S Siebert for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Our message to those who have been impacted by these horrific crimes is that you are not forgotten. We will continue to pursue justice no matter how long or how far it takes us.”

    On Aug. 26, 2021, American and other Coalition military forces were conducting an evacuation operation at Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, Afghanistan. Abbey Gate was the main entry point for the operation. Thousands of civilians were at Abbey Gate for evacuation.

    At approximately 5:36 p.m., ISIS-K member Abdul Rahman al-Logari detonated a body-worn suicide bomb at Abbey Gate, killing 13 U.S. military service members and approximately 160 civilians.

    During an interview with FBI Special Agents on March 2, 2025, after waiving his Miranda rights, Sharifullah admitted to helping prepare for the Abbey Gate attack, including scouting a route near the airport for an attacker. Sharifullah specifically checked for law enforcement and American or Taliban checkpoints; he then communicated to other ISIS-K members that he believed the route was clear and that the attacker would not be detected. Sharifullah also admitted to recognizing al-Logari as an ISIS-K operative he had previously known.

    During his interview with the FBI, Sharifullah also admitted to supporting and conducting activities on behalf of ISIS-K in multiple other lethal attacks.

    On June 20, 2016, a suicide bomber acting for ISIS-K detonated a bomb that killed over ten embassy guards and multiple civilians and wounded other soldiers guarding the Canadian embassy in Kabul. ISIS claimed responsibility for the attack. As alleged in the complaint, prior to the attack, Sharifullah conducted surveillance to prepare the suicide bomber and later transported the bomber to the attack area.

    On March 22, 2024, a group of ISIS-K gunmen attacked Crocus City Hall near Moscow, Russia. The attack killed approximately 130 people and injured numerous others. Russian authorities arrested four gunmen in connection with the attack. During his interview with the FBI, Sharifullah admitted that, on behalf of ISIS-K, he had shared instructions on how to use AK-style rifles and other weapons to would-be attackers. Sharifullah also admitted to recognizing two of the four arrested gunmen as those he had previously instructed.

    If convicted, Sharifullah faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael P. Ben’Ary and Troy A. Edwards, Jr., for the Eastern District of Virginia and Trial Attorneys Alicia Cook, Charles Kovats, and Ryan White for the Department of Justice’s National Security Division are prosecuting the case.

    The details described above are allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hagerty Releases Video Statement in Response to Trump’s Remarks to a Joint Session of Congress

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty

    “The contrast between what we experienced together the last four years under Joe Biden and now could not be clearer… All of these wins, all of this restoration and revitalization, are just the start of a new golden age in America… I will work with President Trump to do everything I can in the United States Senate to advance America’s interests.”

    WASHINGTON—United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) today released the following video and statement in response to President Donald Trump’s address to a joint session of Congress:

    *Click the photo above or here to watch*

    Remarks as prepared for delivery:

    “Good evening. A few moments ago, President Donald Trump concluded his first address to Congress as our nation’s 47th president.

    “After hearing from our President, I walked out of that Chamber beaming with optimism, pride, and hope for the future of our nation. The golden age of America is here in full swing.

    “The contrast between what we experienced together the last four years under Joe Biden and now could not be clearer.

    “We witnessed the greatest political comeback in history during the 2024 election of President Trump. Now we are seeing our nation on a comeback and, as President Trump said tonight, the renewal of the American Dream. Never have I been more excited about being part of a movement like this.

    “The success of the Trump Administration in just the first six weeks has been nothing short of remarkable.

    “In fact, this Administration has done so much in such a short time that many people have likely had a tough time keeping up with all of the wins.

    “Within hours of taking office, President Trump began the critical mission to secure our southern border. Under his instruction, Immigration and Customs Enforcement began apprehending and deporting illegal gang members, rapists, and murderers, and he immediately put an end to the Biden-era tidal wave of immigration. Over 20,000 illegal immigrants were arrested by ICE in a single month — that’s almost as many as Biden’s entire last year in office.

    “Since that decisive and needed action, we have seen a 94 percent drop in attempted illegal crossings year over year across our southern border—let me remind you, Donald Trump has been in office just six weeks. 

    “American sovereignty is back.

    “President Trump’s agenda is spurring action across the board. The Biden Administration’s ‘America Last’ approach is over.

    “Putting ‘America First’ is back.

    “Under Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the State Department is now standing up for our nation against our adversaries and standing with our ally Israel, getting it the security assistance that it needs to defend itself against Hamas terrorists, and reversing the anti-Israel and pro-Iran policies of the Biden Administration.

    “American leadership on the world stage is back.

    “The same is happening at the Department of Defense under the leadership of Secretary Pete Hegseth.

    “The days of prioritizing DEI initiatives and pronouns are in the past. Military readiness, lethality, and strength are back.

    “Under Joe Biden and his Administration, respect for America across the globe had deteriorated. Just look at the disastrous Afghanistan withdrawal in 2021, or Communist China flying a spy balloon over our country for 10 days. Look at Biden destroying our energy independence and enriching and emboldening Russia to invade Ukraine in 2022, or the horrific and evil attack by Iran-backed Hamas terrorists against Israel on October 7, 2023. For every Biden diplomacy disaster, our adversaries were further empowered.

    “But things have changed under President Trump. Foreign nations are no longer taking advantage of us, our President is standing up for our country, and decisions are being made in the best interest of the American taxpayer. You need only to look at President Trump and Vice President Vance’s meeting with President Zelensky last week.

    “America’s worldwide respect is back.

    “Another thing Americans deeply care about that has been a top priority for this Administration is ending the weaponization of our justice system.

    “Thanks to President Trump, Freedom of Speech has prevailed over censorship, and intelligence officials who abused their position to influence an election are finally being held accountable. And I’m confident that this much-needed reform will continue under the leadership of Director Kash Patel and Attorney General Pam Bondi.

    “Americans’ trust in our Justice system is on its way back.

    “In addition to our foreign policy, our economy is turning around because of President Trump’s pro-growth and pro-business mindset and de-regulatory approach.

    “One of the most critical ways he is already spurring economic growth is by unleashing digital assets innovation and unburdening the industry from predatory, confusing, and often contradictory regulations.

    “And in a broader move, his executive order on regulation states that ten regulations will be repealed for every new regulation proposed. Because of this, many unnecessary, bloated, and burdensome regulations will be repealed in order to restore economic dynamism in America. Optimism is climbing across the country.

    “Economic growth is back.

    “Americans last November overwhelmingly declared that they wanted to see change in Washington. In just six weeks, President Trump is delivering on their mandate.

    “Because of the efforts of the Department of Government Efficiency, we are cutting wasteful, abusive, and fraudulent spending across our federal government—saving millions of hardworking Americans’ tax dollars.

    “Transparency is back.

    “All of these wins, all of this restoration and revitalization, are just the start of a new golden age in America. There is so much more to get done in order to deliver on the promises that were made to the American people—and I look forward to working with President Trump to deliver.

    “These six weeks under the Trump Administration and the President’s address tonight make me incredibly optimistic for what’s to come in the next four years, and I think the American people feel the same way.

    “The State of our Nation—the greatest nation the world has ever seen—is already stronger than it was the last four years, and getting stronger by the day.

    “As your Senator, I will work with President Trump to do everything I can in the United States Senate to place the America people first, making our economy the most competitive it can be, our military as lethal as it can be, and our diplomacy as effective as it can be to advance America’s interests.

    “Thank you, and may God bless.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wicker Responds To President Trump’s Address To A Joint Session Of Congress President Is Focused On Growth, Security, And International Leadership

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., today issued the following statement after President Donald J. Trump delivered the 2025 Presidential Address to a Joint Session of Congress:
    “Tonight, President Trump outlined his vision for the next four years. The president has already begun enforcing the law at the border and restoring our national defense. The American people voted for security and prosperity, and I look forward to achieving both over the course of President Trump’s administration.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: United States Arrests ISIS-K Attack Planner for Role in Killing of U.S. Military Service Members at Abbey Gate, Afghanistan

    Source: United States Attorneys General 9

    Note: View the affidavit and complaint here.

    On March 2, 2025, the United States charged Mohammad Sharifullah, also known as “Jafar,” a member of the terrorist organization the Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham-Khorasan Province (ISIS-K), with providing and conspiring to provide material support and resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization resulting in death, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2339B. Sharifullah has been arrested and is expected to appear in the Eastern District of Virginia on March 5, 2025.

    “This evil ISIS-K terrorist orchestrated the brutal murder of 13 heroic Marines,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Under President Trump’s strong leadership on the world stage, this Department of Justice will ensure that terrorists like Mohammad Sharifullah have no safe haven, no second chances, and no worse enemy than the United States of America.”

    “The lethal attack that killed 13 American service members and Afghan civilians during the U.S. troop withdrawal from Afghanistan was an act of terrorism,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “ISIS-K brazenly claimed responsibility for the carnage. Now thanks to the assistance of the FBI, Department of Justice, and the CIA, we have secured Sharifullah’s apprehension and transport to the U.S. to face American justice. The FBI will never forget the loss of these American heroes, we will continue to hunt down those who viciously murdered our warriors, we will find all responsible and bring them to justice.”

    “The charges announced today carry an unmistakable message: the commitment of the United States to hold accountable all who facilitate and carry out acts of terror against us will never waver,” said U.S. Attorney Erik S Siebert for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Our message to those who have been impacted by these horrific crimes is that you are not forgotten. We will continue to pursue justice no matter how long or how far it takes us.”

    On Aug. 26, 2021, American and other Coalition military forces were conducting an evacuation operation at Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, Afghanistan. Abbey Gate was the main entry point for the operation. Thousands of civilians were at Abbey Gate for evacuation.

    At approximately 5:36 p.m., ISIS-K member Abdul Rahman al-Logari detonated a body-worn suicide bomb at Abbey Gate, killing 13 U.S. military service members and approximately 160 civilians.

    During an interview with FBI Special Agents on March 2, 2025, after waiving his Miranda rights, Sharifullah admitted to helping prepare for the Abbey Gate attack, including scouting a route near the airport for an attacker. Sharifullah specifically checked for law enforcement and American or Taliban checkpoints; he then communicated to other ISIS-K members that he believed the route was clear and that the attacker would not be detected. Sharifullah also admitted to recognizing al-Logari as an ISIS-K operative he had previously known.

    During his interview with the FBI, Sharifullah also admitted to supporting and conducting activities on behalf of ISIS-K in multiple other lethal attacks.

    On June 20, 2016, a suicide bomber acting for ISIS-K detonated a bomb that killed over ten embassy guards and multiple civilians and wounded other soldiers guarding the Canadian embassy in Kabul. ISIS claimed responsibility for the attack. As alleged in the complaint, prior to the attack, Sharifullah conducted surveillance to prepare the suicide bomber and later transported the bomber to the attack area.

    On March 22, 2024, a group of ISIS-K gunmen attacked Crocus City Hall near Moscow, Russia. The attack killed approximately 130 people and injured numerous others. Russian authorities arrested four gunmen in connection with the attack. During his interview with the FBI, Sharifullah admitted that, on behalf of ISIS-K, he had shared instructions on how to use AK-style rifles and other weapons to would-be attackers. Sharifullah also admitted to recognizing two of the four arrested gunmen as those he had previously instructed.

    If convicted, Sharifullah faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael P. Ben’Ary and Troy A. Edwards, Jr., for the Eastern District of Virginia and Trial Attorneys Alicia Cook, Charles Kovats, and Ryan White for the Department of Justice’s National Security Division are prosecuting the case.

    The details described above are allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Security News: United States Arrests ISIS-K Attack Planner for Role in Killing of U.S. Military Service Members at Abbey Gate, Afghanistan

    Source: United States Department of Justice 2

    Note: View the affidavit and complaint here.

    On March 2, 2025, the United States charged Mohammad Sharifullah, also known as “Jafar,” a member of the terrorist organization the Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham-Khorasan Province (ISIS-K), with providing and conspiring to provide material support and resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization resulting in death, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2339B. Sharifullah has been arrested and is expected to appear in the Eastern District of Virginia on March 5, 2025.

    “This evil ISIS-K terrorist orchestrated the brutal murder of 13 heroic Marines,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Under President Trump’s strong leadership on the world stage, this Department of Justice will ensure that terrorists like Mohammad Sharifullah have no safe haven, no second chances, and no worse enemy than the United States of America.”

    “The lethal attack that killed 13 American service members and Afghan civilians during the U.S. troop withdrawal from Afghanistan was an act of terrorism,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “ISIS-K brazenly claimed responsibility for the carnage. Now thanks to the assistance of the FBI, Department of Justice, and the CIA, we have secured Sharifullah’s apprehension and transport to the U.S. to face American justice. The FBI will never forget the loss of these American heroes, we will continue to hunt down those who viciously murdered our warriors, we will find all responsible and bring them to justice.”

    “The charges announced today carry an unmistakable message: the commitment of the United States to hold accountable all who facilitate and carry out acts of terror against us will never waver,” said U.S. Attorney Erik S Siebert for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Our message to those who have been impacted by these horrific crimes is that you are not forgotten. We will continue to pursue justice no matter how long or how far it takes us.”

    On Aug. 26, 2021, American and other Coalition military forces were conducting an evacuation operation at Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, Afghanistan. Abbey Gate was the main entry point for the operation. Thousands of civilians were at Abbey Gate for evacuation.

    At approximately 5:36 p.m., ISIS-K member Abdul Rahman al-Logari detonated a body-worn suicide bomb at Abbey Gate, killing 13 U.S. military service members and approximately 160 civilians.

    During an interview with FBI Special Agents on March 2, 2025, after waiving his Miranda rights, Sharifullah admitted to helping prepare for the Abbey Gate attack, including scouting a route near the airport for an attacker. Sharifullah specifically checked for law enforcement and American or Taliban checkpoints; he then communicated to other ISIS-K members that he believed the route was clear and that the attacker would not be detected. Sharifullah also admitted to recognizing al-Logari as an ISIS-K operative he had previously known.

    During his interview with the FBI, Sharifullah also admitted to supporting and conducting activities on behalf of ISIS-K in multiple other lethal attacks.

    On June 20, 2016, a suicide bomber acting for ISIS-K detonated a bomb that killed over ten embassy guards and multiple civilians and wounded other soldiers guarding the Canadian embassy in Kabul. ISIS claimed responsibility for the attack. As alleged in the complaint, prior to the attack, Sharifullah conducted surveillance to prepare the suicide bomber and later transported the bomber to the attack area.

    On March 22, 2024, a group of ISIS-K gunmen attacked Crocus City Hall near Moscow, Russia. The attack killed approximately 130 people and injured numerous others. Russian authorities arrested four gunmen in connection with the attack. During his interview with the FBI, Sharifullah admitted that, on behalf of ISIS-K, he had shared instructions on how to use AK-style rifles and other weapons to would-be attackers. Sharifullah also admitted to recognizing two of the four arrested gunmen as those he had previously instructed.

    If convicted, Sharifullah faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael P. Ben’Ary and Troy A. Edwards, Jr., for the Eastern District of Virginia and Trial Attorneys Alicia Cook, Charles Kovats, and Ryan White for the Department of Justice’s National Security Division are prosecuting the case.

    The details described above are allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lummis Applauds President Trump’s America First Vision for National Strength and Prosperity

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    March 5, 2025

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) released the following statement after President Trump’s joint address to Congress:
    “In a little over a month, President Trump has worked at lightning speed to fulfill his promises to the American people of building a safer, stronger, and more prosperous nation,” said Lummis. “Tonight, the people of Wyoming received a message of hope and heard how President Trump is working to restore law, order, accountability, and transparency. After four long years of Biden’s record-breaking inflation, wide-open southern border, war on American energy, and runaway regulations, President Trump has already eased burdens for Wyoming families, made our communities safer, created a pathway toward American energy independence, and made the federal government accountable to the American people it serves. Under President Trump, the American dream is attainable again, and I will continue working with his administration to create a better life for the people of Wyoming.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fischer Statement on President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer
    Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) issued the statement below following President Trump’s joint address to Congress:
    “This evening, President Trump reinforced his dedication to renewing the American Dream. It was shameful to see the disrespect and lack of decorum directed at the president from Democrat members of Congress.
    In just over a month, President Trump has begun delivering for the American people by securing our border, unleashing American energy, and defending our nation from threats abroad. I look forward to continuing my partnership with the Trump administration to make our nation safer, more affordable, and more prosperous over the next four years.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Statement On President Trump’s Joint Address To Congress

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    March 04, 2025

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Minority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) released the following statement on President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress:

    “What we witnessed tonight was hubris in its highest form.  President Trump has claimed that he alone can ‘make America great.’  Unfortunately, grandstanding does not lower the price of groceries or cut prescription drug costs.

    “While President Trump delivered empty platitudes about the success of his presidency, Elon Musk and his Administration have gutted the federal government, indiscriminately firing civil servants who are critical to our national security, who protect us from disease outbreaks, and who ensure it’s safe to fly.  Under the guise of ‘efficiency,’ President Trump has frozen NIH funding, preventing medical researchers from finding the cure for cancer, Alzheimer’s, or heart disease.

    “And not a week after calling President Zelenskyy ‘a dictator’ and blaming him for invading his own country, President Trump declared that he has worked tirelessly to end the violence in Ukraine.  Our allies, especially Ukraine, deserve more than President Trump’s feeble support.  I unequivocally stand with Ukraine and President Zelenskyy as they continue to push off Russian aggression.” 

    Durbin’s guest for tonight’s Joint Address to Congress is Dr. Elizabeth Sokol, a practicing oncologist and medical researcher at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.  Dr. Sokol specializes in treating children with neuroblastoma, the leading cause of cancer death for children aged one to five.  Dr. Sokol is in the midst of conducting federally-supported clinical trials that are now being endangered by the Trump Administration’s devastating, and illegal, cuts to funding and resources at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). 

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Risch Statement on President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho James E Risch
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) released the following statement after attending President Trump’s address to a Joint Session of Congress.
    “America is back. For four years, Idahoans faced an economic catastrophe and inflationary disaster, a Green New Deal, a dangerous illegal immigration crisis, and a woke ideological agenda. We will not go back,” said Risch. “President Trump’s commonsense revolution is renewing the American Dream. We will end the flagrant waste of taxpayer dollars. We will secure our southern border by finishing the wall. We will root out bureaucratic bloat and restore our freedoms. America is safer, more prosperous, and stronger under the leadership of President Trump.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA News: What They Are Saying: President Trump’s Masterclass Before Congress

    Source: The White House

    Tonight, during his first address to a joint session of Congress in his second term, President Donald J. Trump delivered a powerful, masterful speech highlighting the remarkable accomplishments of his first six weeks in office and charting a course for four years of prosperity.

    The address received widespread acclaim. 76% of Americans approved of the speech, according to a CBS poll, while a CNN poll showed 69% of Americans had a positive reaction.

    Praise immediately poured in:

    Speaker Mike Johnson: “Tonight, President Trump made his triumphant return to Congress to share his bold, optimistic vision for renewing the American Dream.”

    Sen. Ted Cruz: “This is the fifth State of the Union address I’ve seen Trump give — it was by far his best.”

    Fox News’s Bret Baier: “The best moment — emotional moment, was DJ, who’s battling cancer. He wanted to be a police officer and during the speech, the president said the Secret Service has made him an agent.”

    Fox News’s Brit Hume: “If you ever doubted that Donald Trump is the political colossus of our time and our nation, this night and this speech should have put that to rest.”

    Geraldo Rivera: “Trump was strong, defiant and entertaining.”

    Clay Travis: “This is the best speech of Donald Trump’s career. Just a phenomenal litany of common sense and rational leadership. Great and heartwarming guests. It’s a grand slam.”

    Chris Cillizza: “That was a very effective speech. You can hate it or him. But that speech was aimed squarely at issues where the public is with Trump — and filled with made-for-sharing moments. A master image-maker at work (and you can hate him and acknowledge that’s true!)”

    Riley Gaines: “I am just left feeling inspired and hopeful and there’s so much to look forward to.”

    Amber Rose: “Donald Trump just gave the greatest presidential speech of all-time.”

    Reince Priebus: “I thought it was extremely strong. When he talked about… common sense revolution, giving the government back to The People… I thought was really insightful.”

    Breitbart’s Matthew Boyle: “This speech is one of Trump’s best ever, and the Democrat behavior during it has been not only despicable but also colossally politically stupid. Whoever is advising these idiots just steered their party into an even deeper ditch than Joe Biden and Kamala Harris left them in.”

    Pennsylvania resident: “I thought it was very positive… We used to be a country that would just let everything happen… I think now, we’re taking back things that should’ve never been given away. So, I think doing those tariffs… it’s well overdue.”

    Secretary of State Marco Rubio: “An inspiring and momentous speech. @POTUS returned to the White House with a clear mandate from the American people to renew the American Dream. His address tonight laid out exactly how he is keeping those promises with a vision of peace through strength, and a stronger, safer, and more prosperous United States.”

    Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem: “Tonight, President Trump laid out his vision to renew the American dream. In just a few short weeks, President Trump’s immigration and border security policies have led to an all-time-low in illegal crossings at the southern border. The message is clear: America’s borders are closed to lawbreakers.”

    Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent: “Strength. Prosperity. Peace. Tonight, President Trump shared his historic vision for our nation in renewing the American dream. He has done more in the past six weeks for the American people, than the previous administration in four years.”

    Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum: “The previous administration used a whole-of-government approach to oppose reliable, affordable U.S. energy production in favor of unreliable, unaffordable intermittent sources. The Trump administration is working overtime to undo all the damage done during the Biden years and we are fast-tracking America’s path to a New Golden Age through Energy Dominance!”

    Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth: “Thank you @POTUS it is the honor of my life to serve the American warfighter.”

    Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins: “@POTUS spoke loud and clear on American agriculture. He loves America’s farmers, and they have no more faithful friend nor more powerful champion. He will defend them, and if anyone doubted it — they don’t after tonight.”

    Secretary of Energy Chris Wright: “President Trump is renewing the American Dream, and we here @Energy are with him every step of the way to unleash American energy dominance!”

    UN Ambassador-designate Elise Stefanik: “In just one month under President Trump, Americans have experienced record results and the renewal of the American Dream with the triumphant return of strong leadership to the Oval Office. From securing the border, to cutting wasteful spending of our hard earned taxpayer dollars, to reasserting America First peace through strength leadership to the world stage, President Trump has delivered the most exceptional first month of an American presidency in history. Promises made, promises kept. The American Golden Age is here.”

    Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Scott Turner: “The American people sent President Trump to enact generational change in Washington. What @POTUS has accomplished in less than two months is nothing short of remarkable. This is what America first feels like.”

    Small Business Administration Administrator Kelly Loeffler: “This was a tour de force of a President who, in 42 days, has more accomplishments than Joe Biden had in four years — It is a new day in America and people at home had to have loved what they’ve seen from this great President.”

    Secretary of Education Linda McMahon: “Tremendous address by President Trump tonight. America is back, & the work is only beginning. I will work hard to make @POTUS’ vision for education a reality — preparing our students for the workforce & empowering their parents will be vital to our nation’s future success.”

    EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin: “This vision of President Trump will usher in the greatest four years in American history. Honored to be a part of this amazing Cabinet working hard to restore our nation to glory. Will continue to do my part @EPA to Power the Great American Comeback.”

    Sen. Bernie Moreno: “An inspiring, emotional address from @realDonaldTrump!! But crazed partisan Dems refused to applaud even a brave young man like DJ. Appalling!”

    Sen. Rick Scott: “Under President Trump’s strong leadership, our allies respect us, our adversaries fear us, and the world respects us again!”

    Sen. Marsha Blackburn: “What a great night! President Trump gave a fantastic address and laid out the many accomplishments he and his administration have made during these first six weeks back in office for the American people.”

    Sen. Markwayne Mullin: “@POTUS commanded the podium for TWO hours. He’s restoring the American Dream with relentless determination. “The Golden Age of America has only just begun.”

    Sen. John Cornyn: “One of the best lines from President Trump tonight during his state of the union speech: to secure the border we didn’t need any new laws, what we needed was a new president!  Amen.”

    Sen. Shelley Moore Capito: “@POTUS delivered a strong vision for our country—one that prioritizes border security, unleashing American energy, strengthening our military, and providing tax relief for families.”

    Sen. Ted Budd: “Tonight was about promises made, promises kept.”

    Sen. Jim Risch: “Excellent speech, Mr. President! I am proud to work with my Republican colleagues to support President Trump’s renewal of the American Dream. @POTUS is the strong leader America needs!”

    Sen. Pete Ricketts: “It’s time to get our economy back on track. Under @POTUS’ first administration, America’s economy was strong. Tonight, we heard him commit to restoring prosperity and supporting American families. Relief is on its way—and not a minute too soon.”

    Sen. Chuck Grassley: “Pres Trump delivered a strong state of the union address He’s working w Congress to make America safer + stronger + restore common sense in govt After an impactful start to his presidency there’s a lot more work 2do”

    Sen. Jon Husted: “Tonight, the president outlined what he’s doing to make our country secure, strong, and prosperous.”

    Sen. Katie Britt: “Tonight @POTUS made it clear: We’re putting Americans first—securing our nation, making streets safe, growing our prosperity, and unleashing our energy potential.”

    Sen. Lindsey Graham: “My take on President @realDonaldTrump’s address tonight: Inspiring, funny, compelling and the Democrats’ worst nightmare.”

    Chairwoman Lisa McClain: “President Trump’s message to the American people is clear: America is BACK.”

    Rep. Claudia Tenney: “This was one of the most tremendous experiences of my life. Donald Trump hit it out of the park.”

    Rep. Brandon Gill: “Help is here. Hope is here. President Trump is here.”

    Rep. Mark Alford: “What a speech and what a time to be in America.”

    Rep. Stephanie Bice: “President Trump’s speech was a testament to the vision of the American people which was suppressed under President Biden.”

    Rep. Gary Palmer: “President Trump’s speech tonight was the embodiment of ‘promises made, promises kept.’”

    Rep. Troy Downing: “What a speech. It’s never been so clear that a new golden age is upon us. From securing our border, to unleashing American energy, to rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse, @POTUS is delivering on the promises that he ran on. A great night to be an American!”

    Rep. Anna Paulina Luna: “Tonight was historic. President Trump said he was saved by God to Make America Great Again- and THAT is our mandate.”

    Rep. Nancy Mace: “Best speech ever.”

    Rep. Jim Jordan: “Incredible speech by President Trump! Confident. Empowering. Leadership.”

    Rep. Blake Moore: “It was an honor to attend President Trump’s Joint Session tonight. He and his administration have swiftly responded to the call of Americans to secure our border, unleash domestic energy production, address rampant crime, tackle the difficult task to root out waste, fraud, and abuse in our government, and more. There is much to do legislatively in the coming months to ensure a strong economy and defense, and I look forward to working with the Trump administration to accomplish this agenda.”

    Rep. Mike Kennedy: “President Trump has emerged as the leader the United States needs right now. I look forward to working alongside him to advance our nation’s prosperity.”

    Rep. Victoria Spartz: “Great speech by President Trump! The State of the Union is strong!”

    Rep. Julia Letlow: “President Trump delivered a strong message emphasizing the promises he is keeping to secure our border, increase energy production, fix the Biden economy, and reassert American leadership.”

    Rep. Dan Meuser: “Tonight, President Trump reaffirmed his commitment to the Renewal of the American Dream and made clear that Promises Made, Promises Kept is not just a slogan—it’s a reality.”

    Rep. Ron Estes: “It was great to welcome President Trump back to Congress and I look forward to continuing to work with him to advance the America First policy agenda that will restore our nation.”

    Rep. Mike Flood: “President @realDonaldTrump’s speech to Congress was a celebration of America and the renewal our country is experiencing.”

    Rep. Sam Graves: “The Golden Age of America has ARRIVED.  Thank you, President Trump!”

    Rep. Beth Van Duyne: “In just six weeks, President Trump has made incredible progress for America: the most secure borders in our lifetime without any new money or legislation; through DOGE, he has exposed the massive fraud and money laundering of billions of dollars in the federal government; brought in more manufacturing investments (Apple, TSMC, Honda) than the entire Biden presidency; and he is working with Congress to deliver long term reforms to lower costs and expand opportunities for our hard working families.”

    Rep. Brad Finstad: “Tonight, @POTUS made clear he is putting the American people first. Since taking office, he has begun reining in an oversized, inefficient government, brought safety and security back to our communities, and restored common sense to the @WhiteHouse.”

    Rep. Rudy Yakym: “America is back! I look forward to working with President Trump to continue delivering for Hoosiers and all Americans.”

    Rep. Ben Cline: “President Trump just delivered a bold, positive vision to secure our border, revive our economy, and restore American strength. Leadership is back, our enemies are on notice, and we’re making America great again.”

    Rep. Doug LaMalfa: “Tonight, President Trump delivered a strong and optimistic message about the renewal of the American Dream. He highlighted the progress made in rebuilding our economy, securing our border, and restoring America’s leadership on the world stage.”

    Rep. Dale Strong: “President Trump is delivering on his promises. He has secured our borders and is working to revitalize our economy. The United States is seen as a symbol of strength across the globe once again, and tonight’s address proves that this administration is ready and willing to help hardworking American families.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Launch of compulsory acquisition of remaining issued and outstanding shares of Avenir LNG Limited by Stolt-Nielsen Limited

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, March 5, 2025 – Reference is made to the stock exchange announcement of January 27, 2025, stating that Stolt-Nielsen Limited (Oslo Børs: SNI), through its subsidiary Stolt-Nielsen Gas Ltd. had entered into a share purchase agreement to acquire all the shares of Avenir LNG Limited (‘Avenir LNG’) owned by Golar LNG Limited and Aequitas Limited (the ‘Transaction’) and subject to completion of the Transaction, Stolt-Nielsen Gas Ltd. intended to offer to buy the shares of all remaining shareholders in Avenir LNG.

    The Transaction has been completed, and Stolt-Nielsen Gas Ltd. now holds more than 95% of the outstanding shares and votes in Avenir LNG.

    As the holder of more than 95% of Avenir LNG’s shares, Stolt-Nielsen Gas Ltd. is able to acquire the remaining shares in Avenir LNG by way of a compulsory acquisition, in accordance with section 103 of the Companies Act 1981 of Bermuda (the ‘Bermuda Companies Act’). The board of directors of Stolt-Nielsen Gas Ltd. has resolved to proceed with this compulsory acquisition, and a notice informing Avenir LNG’s shareholders of the compulsory acquisition has been issued (the ‘Compulsory Acquisition Notice’). The purchase price for the compulsory acquisition is $ 1.00 per Avenir LNG share (the ‘Purchase Price’), which is the same price per Avenir LNG share as in the Transaction.

    Settlement under the compulsory acquisition will occur in accordance with the standard settlement procedures for compulsory acquisition transactions registered in the Euronext Securities Oslo system (the ‘VPS’). The settlement amount per Avenir LNG share that a shareholder will receive is NOK 11.19, representing the equivalent of $ 1.00 using Norges Bank’s mid-rate in the interbank market as published on March 4, 2025.

    Further information about the compulsory acquisition is provided in the Compulsory Acquisition Notice. A copy of the Compulsory Acquisition Notice can also be obtained free of charge during ordinary course of business hours at the offices of DNB Markets, a part of DNB Bank ASA at Dronning Eufemias gate 30, N-0021 Oslo, Norway.

    As outlined in the Compulsory Acquisition Notice, shareholders of Avenir LNG may, within a one-month period of such notice, starting on March 11, 2025, and ending on April 11, 2025, apply to the Supreme Court of Bermuda for an appraisal of the value of their Avenir LNG shares. Stolt-Nielsen Gas Ltd. is entitled and bound to acquire the Avenir LNG shares of shareholders of Avenir LNG on the terms of the Compulsory Acquisition Notice upon the expiry of one month from the date on which such notice is given, unless a shareholder of Avenir LNG applies to the Supreme Court of Bermuda to appraise the value of their shares within the one month period, whereby Stolt-Nielsen Gas Ltd. may within one month of the court appraising the value of the shares acquire all such shares at the price fixed by the court or cancel the Compulsory Acquisition Notice.

    Completion of the compulsory acquisition and settlement of the Purchase Price are expected to occur on or about April 16, 2025 (subject to no shareholder applying to the Supreme Court of Bermuda for an appraisal of the value of their shares).

    Following completion of the compulsory acquisition, Stolt-Nielsen Gas Ltd. will pursue a delisting of Avenir LNG’s shares from Euronext N-OTC.

    Sponsored Norwegian Depository Receipts

    Equro Issuer Services AS (‘Equro’), Avenir LNG’s registrar in the ‘VPS’, is registered as the holder of the underlying common shares in Avenir LNG’s register of members maintained at the registered office of Avenir LNG in Bermuda. It is not Avenir LNG’s underlying common shares issued in accordance with the Bermuda Companies Act and Avenir LNG’s bye-laws but Sponsored Norwegian Depository Receipts (‘SNDR’), representing the beneficial interests in such common shares, that are registered in book-entry form with the VPS. Shareholders of Avenir LNG (i.e. holders of SNDRs) must therefore refer to Equro for exercising their rights as shareholders of Avenir LNG. Should a shareholder (i.e. a holder of SNDRs) wish to apply to the Supreme Court of Bermuda to appraise the value of their Avenir LNG common shares (and SNDRs), the applicable number of common shares of Avenir LNG must first be transferred to such holder, and Equro must be contacted (info@equro.com) for such transfer to be performed (and prior to any application to the Supreme Court of Bermuda being made). Further details are available in the Compulsory Acquisition Notice.

    SNDRs issued in the VPS have certain limitations and risks. You can read more about these limitations and risks in Equro’s general business terms and conditions available at Equro’s webpage. A service description for SNDRs is available at Euronext’s webpage.

    Advisors

    DNB Markets, a part of DNB Bank ASA, is acting as financial advisor to Stolt-Nielsen Limited.

    For additional information please contact:

    Jens F. Grüner-Hegge
    Chief Financial Officer
    UK +44 (0) 20 7611 8985
    j.gruner-hegge@stolt.com

    Ellie Davison
    Head of Corporate Communications
    UK +44 (0) 20 7611 8926
    e.davison@stolt.com

    About Stolt-Nielsen Limited

    Stolt-Nielsen (SNL or the Company) is a long-term investor and manager of businesses focused on opportunities in logistics, distribution and aquaculture. The Stolt-Nielsen portfolio consists of its three global bulk-liquid and chemicals logistics businesses – Stolt Tankers, Stolthaven Terminals and Stolt Tank Containers – Stolt Sea Farm and various investments. Stolt-Nielsen Limited is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange (Oslo Børs: SNI).

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: VAALCO Energy, Inc. Enters Into New $300 Million Revolving Credit Facility

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, March 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — VAALCO Energy, Inc. (NYSE: EGY; LSE: EGY) (“Vaalco” or the “Company”) announced that it has entered into a new revolving credit facility (“the new facility”) with an initial commitment of $190 million and the ability to grow to $300 million, led by The Standard Bank of South Africa Limited, Isle of Man Branch with other participating banks and financial partners. This new facility, which is subject to customary administrative conditional precedents, replaces the Company’s existing undrawn revolving credit facility that was provided by Glencore Energy UK Ltd. The Company arranged the new facility primarily to provide short-term funding that may be needed from time-to-time to supplement its internally generated cash flow and cash balance as it executes its planned investment programs across its diversified asset base over the next few years.

    Key terms include:

    • Six-year term with facility amortization to begin on September 30, 2026;
    • Initial commitment of $190 million with the ability to grow to $300 million through a $110 million accordion;
    • Amounts drawn bear interest of 6.5% plus SOFR until the Côte d’Ivoire Floating Production Storage and Offloading vessel (“FPSO”) Dry Dock Refurbishment Project is completed;
    • Interest rate will decrease to 6.0% plus SOFR once the FPSO project is completed;
    • Undrawn available amounts incur a fee of 35% of margin per annum and undrawn unavailable amounts incur a fee of 20% of margin per annum, with semi-annual borrowing base redeterminations; and
    • Secured with Vaalco’s Gabon, Egypt and Côte d’Ivoire assets.

    “Closing this new credit facility will supplement our internally generated cash flow and cash balance to assist in funding our robust organic growth projects,” said George Maxwell, Vaalco’s Chief Executive Officer. “With $190 million in initial commitment and the ability to grow to $300 million, this facility enables us to fund any short-term capital funding needs that may occur as we execute the significant growth projects across our assets over the next couple of years. We appreciate the support shown by our lending group which we believe affirms the strength of our diverse asset base. We are excited about the major projects that we have planned which are expected to deliver a step-change in organic growth across our portfolio.”

    The Company entered into the new facility with The Standard Bank of South Africa Limited, Isle of Man Branch as the lead bank on the facility. Other participants include Rand Merchant Bank, The Mauritius Commercial Bank Limited and Glencore Energy UK Ltd.

    About Vaalco
    Vaalco, founded in 1985 and incorporated under the laws of Delaware, is a Houston, Texas, USA based, independent energy company with a diverse portfolio of production, development and exploration assets across Gabon, Egypt, Côte d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Nigeria and Canada.

    For Further Information

       
    Vaalco Energy, Inc. (General and Investor Enquiries) +00 1 713 543 3422
    Website: www.vaalco.com
       
    Al Petrie Advisors (US Investor Relations) +00 1 713 543 3422
    Al Petrie / Chris Delange  
       
    Buchanan (UK Financial PR) +44 (0) 207 466 5000
    Ben Romney / Barry Archer Vaalco@buchanan.uk.com
       

    Forward Looking Statements
    This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which are intended to be covered by the safe harbors created by those laws and other applicable laws and may also include “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities law (collectively “forward-looking statements”). Where a forward-looking statement expresses or implies an expectation or belief as to future events or results, such expectation or belief is expressed in good faith and believed to have a reasonable basis. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “forecast,” “outlook,” “aim,” “target,” “will,” “could,” “should,” “may,” “likely,” “plan” and “probably” or similar words may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements in this press release may include, but are not limited to, statements relating to (i) estimates of future drilling, production, sales and costs of acquiring crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids; (ii) expectations regarding Vaalco’s ability to effectively integrate assets and properties it has acquired as a result of the Svenska acquisition into its operations; (iii) expectations regarding future exploration and the development, growth and potential of Vaalco’s operations, project pipeline and investments, and schedule and anticipated benefits to be derived therefrom; (iv) expectations regarding future acquisitions, investments or divestitures; (v) expectations of future dividends; (vi) expectations of future balance sheet strength; and (vii) expectations of future equity and enterprise value.

    Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause actual results to differ materially from future results expressed, projected or implied by the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: risks relating to any unforeseen liabilities of Vaalco; the ability to generate cash flows that, along with cash on hand, will be sufficient to support operations and cash requirements; risks relating to the timing and costs of completion for scheduled maintenance of the FPSO servicing the Baobab field; and the risks described under the caption “Risk Factors” in Vaalco’s 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 15, 2024 and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC.

    Inside Information
    This announcement contains inside information as defined in Regulation (EU) No. 596/2014 on market abuse which is part of UK domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 (“MAR”) and is made in accordance with the Company’s obligations under article 17 of MAR. The person responsible for arranging the release of this announcement on behalf of Vaalco is Matthew Powers, Corporate Secretary of Vaalco.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Atos reports full year 2024 results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press release

    Atos reports full year 2024 results

    Recovery of the commercial activity in Q4 2024

    • Q4 order entry at €2.7 billion
    • Q4 book to bill at 117%, +9 points vs Q4 2023, benefitting from the signature of large multi-year contract renewals and wins
    • FY 2024 book to bill at 82% vs 94% in prior year

    FY 2024 revenue: €9,577 million, down -5.4% organically, impacted by previously-established contract terminations or scope reductions and by market softness in key geographies

    • Eviden: down -6.7% organically
    • Tech Foundations down -4.1% organically

    Operating margin of 2.1% at €199m, with Eviden at 2.0% and Tech Foundations at 2.2%

    • Down -210 bps organically compared with FY 2023, mainly due to the allocation to the business of SG&A costs previously allocated to Other Operating Income & Expenses, as part of the separation project in prior year
    • Operating margin includes circa €40 million of provision for underperforming contracts following negotiations with customers

    Free cash flow at €-2,233 million reflecting the end of one-off working capital optimization actions and higher capex linked to High Performance Computing contracts

    • Working capital optimization at December 2024 of €0.3 billion compared to €1.8 billion in prior year
      • Consisting solely of customer invoices paid in advance without any discount and on a pure voluntary basis;
      • No usage at all of account receivable factoring or specific optimization on trade payables.

    Net income group share of €248 million, including notably:

    • €3,520 million income from the financial restructuring, including a €2,766 million gain on the debt-to-equity swap and €965 million IFRS 9 debt fair value treatment, which will be amortized in subsequent years
    • Goodwill and other non-current assets impairment charge of €2,357 million, reflecting the decrease of the Group’s enterprise value, which takes into account a lower fair value of the financial debts and a lower market capitalization

    Paris, March 5, 2025 – Atos, a global leader in digital transformation, high-performance computing and information technology infrastructure, today announces its 2024 financial results.

    Philippe Salle, Atos Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer, declared:

    “It was with great enthusiasm and conviction that I have joined the Atos Group in October 2024. Now that our financial restructuring has been successfully completed in December, the Group can focus on its transformation journey and on providing the highest level of support to our customers through innovation and quality of service. I will present my vision for Atos and our mid-term strategy during a Capital Markets Day on May 14.

    During the fourth quarter, our commercial activity recovered thanks to the positive change of perception of our clients, who took note of the improvement of our credit rating. This positive commercial momentum materialized in renewals or extensions of large strategic multi-year contracts.

    I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the teams involved for their outstanding contribution to the financial structuring of the company and to our employees, customers and partners for their continued support.”

    FY 2024 performance highlights

    In € million FY 2024 FY 2023 Var.   FY 2023* Organic Var.
    Revenue 9,577 10,693 -10.4%   10,124 -5.4%
    Operating Margin 199 467 -268   423 -224
    In % of revenue 2.1% 4.4%   -230bps   4.2%    -210bps
    OMDA 722 1,026 -304      
    In % of revenue 7.6% 9.6%   -200bps      
    Net income 248 -3,441 3,689      
    Free Cash Flow -2,233 -1,078 -1,154      
    Net debt excl. IFRS 9 fair value treatment -1,238 -2,230 992      
    Net debt -275 -2,230 1,955      

    *: at constant scope and December 2024 average exchange rates

    FY 2024 performance by Business

    In € million FY 2024
    Revenue
    FY 2023
    revenue
    FY 2023
    revenue*
    Organic variation*
    Eviden 4,604 5,089 4,937 -6.7%
    Tech Foundations 4,972 5,604 5,187 -4.1%
    Total 9,577 10,693 10,124 -5.4%
    In € million FY 2024
    Operating margin
    FY 2023 Operating margin FY 2023
    Operating margin*
      FY 2024
    Operating margin %
    FY 2023 Operating margin% FY 2023 Operating margin%* Organic variation*
    Eviden 90 294 272   2.0% 5.8% 5.5% -350 bps
    Tech Foundations 109 172 151   2.2% 3.1% 2.9% -70 bps
    Total 199 467 423   2.1% 4.4% 4.2% -210 bps

    *: at constant scope and December 2024 average exchange rates

    Group revenue was €9,577 million, down -5.4% organically compared with FY 2023. Overall, Group revenue evolution in 2024 reflects previously-established contract terminations or scope reductions and market softness in key geographies

    Eviden revenue was €4,604 million, down -6.7% organically.

    • Digital activities decreased high single digit. The business was impacted by previously-established contract terminations and contract scope reductions, as well as by the continued market softness in North America, in the UK & Ireland and in Benelux and the Nordics.
    • Big Data & Security (BDS) revenue was roughly stable organically. Advanced Computing grew mid-single digit with large project deliveries in Denmark and Germany particularly during the fourth quarter. Revenue in Digital Security decreased low single digit due to contract terminations and volume decline.

    Tech Foundations revenue was €4,972 million, down -4.1% organically.

    • Core revenue (excluding BPO and value-added resale (“VAR”)) decreased low single digit. Stronger revenue in Major Events (related to the Paris Olympic & Paralympic games and the UEFA) was offset by previously-established contract terminations and completions in North America and by contract scope and volume reduction in the UK.
    • Non-core revenue declined high single digit as planned, reflecting deliberate reduction of BPO activities in the UK and reduced value-added resale for hardware and software products.

    Group operating margin was €199 million representing 2.1% of revenue, down -210 basis points organically compared with 2023:

    • This margin decrease comes mainly from the allocation to the business of €103 million SG&A costs previously allocated to Other Operating Income & Expenses as they related to the separation project conducted in 2023. The profitability of the Group was also impacted by revenue decrease and lower utilization of resources. Operating margin also includes circa €40 million of provision for underperforming contracts following negotiations with customers
    • Eviden’s operating margin was €90 million or 2.0% of revenue, down -350 basis points organically. Beyond the allocation of SG&A costs to the business for €48 million, profitability was also impacted by revenue decrease and lower utilization of resources.
    • Tech Foundations’ operating margin was €109 million or 2.2% of revenue down by -70 basis points organically. The positive impacts from the continued execution of the transformation program and the accelerated reduction of under-performing contracts via renegotiation were offset by higher allocation of SG&A cost to the business for €55 million.

    FY 2024 performance by Regional Business Unit

    In € million FY 2024
    Revenue
    FY 2023
    revenue
    FY 2023
    revenue*
    Organic variation*
    North America 1,909 2,280 2,177 -12.3%
    UK / IR 1,500 1,770 1,763 -14.9%
    Benelux and the Nordics (BTN) 946 911 905 +4.6%
    Central Europe 2,207 2,506 2,253 -2.1%
    Southern Europe 2,080 2,284 2,119 -1.9%
    Growing markets 924 930 893 +3.4%
    Others & Global structures 11 12 13 -16.3%
    Total 9,577 10,693 10,124 -5.4%
    In € million FY 2024
    Operating margin
    FY 2023 Operating margin FY 2023
    Operating margin*
      FY 2024
    Operating margin %
    FY 2023 Operating margin% FY 2023 Operating margin%* Organic variation*
    North America 161 244 229   8.5% 10.7% 10.5% -200 bps
    UK / IR 72 75 77   4.8% 4.2% 4.3% +40 bps
    Benelux and the Nordics (BTN) 7 23 23   0.8% 2.5% 2.5% -170 bps
    Central Europe 10 31 23   0.5% 1.3% 1.0% -60 bps
    Southern Europe 80 99 82   3.9% 4.3% 3.9% +0 bps
    Growing markets 31 92 88   3.4% 9.9% 9.9% -650 bps
    Others & Global structures -163 -97 -98   N/A N/A N/A N/A
    Total 199 467 423   2.1% 4.4% 4.2% -210 bps

    *: at constant scope and December 2024 average exchange rates

    North America revenue was €1,909 million, down -12.3% organically, impacted by contract terminations and general slowdown in market conditions.

    • Eviden revenue was down double digit, impacted by contract terminations and volume decline in Healthcare, Finance, and Transport & Logistics. BDS revenue remained stable.
    • Tech Foundations revenue was down high single digit due to contract completions and terminations in Media and in Insurance, as well as scope reductions with select customers.

    Operating margin was €161 million or 8.5% of revenue, down -200 basis points organically.

    • Eviden’s margin declined, impacted by volume reduction and contract terminations.
    • Tech Foundations margin declined, due to lower utilization of resources and volume reduction.

    UK & Ireland revenue was €1,500 million, down -14.9% organically.

    • Eviden revenue was down double digit. Digital revenue decreased, reflecting contract completions and volume reduction in the Public Sector. BDS revenue decreased as well, following the discontinuation of the low-margin “computing as a service” offering.
    • Revenue in Tech Foundations was down double digit, due to contract completion in Public Sector BPO activities.

    Operating margin was €72 million, or 4.8% of revenue, up +40 basis points organically. Tech Foundations margin benefited from the extension of a large multi-year contract renewed at better financial terms, while Eviden margin was impacted by revenue decline and lower utilization of resources in Digital.

    Benelux and the Nordics revenue was € 946 million, up +4.6% organically

    • Eviden revenue was up double digit, thanks particularly to BDS, with a new supercomputer sold to an innovation center in Denmark.
    • Revenue in Tech Foundations was down low single digit, with contract completions and volume decline in Healthcare and in Utilities.

    Operating margin was €7 million, or 0.8% of revenue, down -170 basis points organically. Profitability was impacted by project overruns and lower utilization of resources in Digital.

    Central Europe revenue was € 2,207 million, down -2.1% organically.

    • Eviden revenue was down low single digit. Decline in Digital due to volume reduction from Manufacturing and Defense customers was partially offset by the ongoing delivery of a large HPC in Germany.
    • Tech Foundations revenue was down low-single digit, reflecting scope reductions in the Banking and Automotive sectors.

    Operating margin was €10 million or 0.5% of revenue, down -60 basis points organically. Tech Foundations’ margin improvement was offset by Eviden’s profitability decrease.

    Southern Europe revenue was €2,080 million, down -1.9% organically.

    • Eviden revenue was down low-single digit. Digital activities declined due to volume reduction in Automotive, Transport & Logistics and Banking sectors. The delivery of a supercomputer project in Spain provided a higher prior year comparison basis for BDS.
    • Tech Foundations revenue declined low single digit due to contract completions with select customers.

    Operating margin was €80 million or 3.9% of revenue, broadly stable organically. BDS’ margin improvement driven by ongoing contracts deliveries was partially offset by Eviden profitability decrease due to lower utilization of resources in Digital.

    Growing Market revenue was €924 million, up +3.4% organically, reflecting stronger contributions related to the Paris Olympic & Paralympic Games and the UEFA contract.

    Operating margin was €31 million or 3.4% of revenue, down -650 basis points reflecting higher marketing expenses for Major Events.

    Others and Global Structures encompass the Group’s global delivery centers and global structures:

    • Global delivery centers net cost was €-72 million, broadly stable compared with last year.
    • Global Structures net cost was €-91 million and increased by €65 million, impacted by higher SG&A costs allocated to Operating margin in 2024 (rather than allocated to Other Operating Income, as part of the separation project in prior year).

    Order entry and backlog

    FY 2024 commercial activity

    Order entry reached €7.9 billion in 2024. Eviden order entry was €4.1 billion and Tech Foundations order entry was €3.8 billion.

    Book-to-bill ratio for the Group was 82% in 2024, down from 94% in 2023.

    • Eviden reported a book-to-bill ratio of 88% in 2024, down from 94% in 2023
    • Tech Foundations reported a book-to-bill ratio of 76% in 2024, down from 94% in 2023

    Q4 2024 commercial activity

    Order entry reached €2.7 billion in Q4 2024 bringing book to bill ratio to 117% for the quarter, benefitting from renewed client confidence thanks to the completion of the financial restructuring.

    Eviden reported a book-to-bill ratio of 111% for the fourth quarter, increasing strongly by +12 points compared with Q4 2023, notably led by a strong performance of Digital with a book to bill at 127%.
    Main contract signatures in the fourth quarter included an application management services contract with a Ministry of Economy, contract renewals in application management and cybersecurity services with a large American retail company and with a large health provider, as well as a High-Performance Computer (HPC) upgrade with a European scientific community.

    Tech Foundations reported a book-to-bill ratio of 122% for the fourth quarter, increasing by +6 points compared with Q4 2023.
    Main contract signatures in the fourth quarter included a 4-years contract extension for IT and digital transformation services with a state-owned savings bank. Several multi-year strategic contracts were renewed, in particular to provide Digital Workplace and Hybrid Cloud & Infrastructure services for North American and UK & Ireland customers in Financial Services, Public Sector, and Transport & Logistic.

    Backlog & commercial pipeline

    At the end of December 2024, the full backlog reached €13.0 billion representing 1.3 years of revenue.

    The full qualified pipeline amounted to €4.3 billion at the end of December 2024, representing 5.1 months of revenue.

    Human resources

    The total headcount was 78,112 at the end of December 2024, decreasing by -17.9% compared with the end of December 2023 and includes:

    • Transfers of 4,900 employees to new providers in Q3 2024 following contract completions in North America and in the UK. Excluding these transfers, headcount has decreased by circa -13%,
    • Worldgrid disposal in Q4 2024 (-973 employees).

    During the year, the Group hired 9,388 staff (of which 93.3% were Direct employees).

    Employe attrition rate remained in line with historical levels, increasing slightly from 14.5% in 2023 to 15.6% in 2024. FY 2024 retention rate for key employees remained high at 92%.

    Net income

    Net income group share was €248 million, primarily due to a €3,520 million financial gain related to the financial restructuring of the Group and a €2,858 million cost recorded in Other Operating Income and Expenses, which included a €2,357 million impairment charges on goodwill and non-current assets.

    Free cash flow

    Free cash flow was €-2,233 million in 2024 reflecting primarily the end of one-off working capital optimization actions resulting in a negative change in working capital requirement for €1,498 million and higher capex linked to HPC contracts for €239 million.

    Net debt and debt covenants

    At December 31, 2024, net debt was €1,238 million (€275 million including IFRS 9 debt fair value treatment), compared to € 2,230 million as of December 31, 2023. and consisted of:

    • Cash and cash equivalents for €1,739 million
    • Short-term financial assets for €93 million
    • Borrowings for €3,069 million (nominal value) or €2,107 million (IFRS fair value)

    The new credit documentation requires the Group to maintain:

    • from 31 March 2025, a minimum liquidity level of €650 million, to be verified at the end of each financial quarter;
    • from 30 June 2027, as from each half-year end, a maximum level of financial leverage (“Total Net Leverage Ratio Covenant”), which is defined as the ratio of Financial indebtedness (mainly excluding IFRS 16 impacts and IFRS 9 debt fair value treatment) to pre-IFRS 16 OMDA; the ceilings thus applicable will be determined no later than 30 June 2026 with reference to a flexibility of 30% in relation to the Business Plan adopted by the Group at that time; these ceilings will in any event remain between 3.5x and 4.0x.

    As at December 31, 2024, the Group financial leverage (as defined above and pre IFRS 9 debt fair value treatment) was 3.16x.

    Going concern and liquidity

    The consolidated financial statements of the Group for the year ended December 31, 2024 have been prepared on a going concern basis.

    The Group’s cash forecasts for the twelve months following the approval of the 2024 consolidated financial statements by the Board of Directors, result in a cash situation that meets its liquidity needs over that period.

    The cash forecasts, which take into account the latest business forecasts, have been prepared based on the assumptions which were in line with the Group updated business plan communicated on September 2, 2024.

    It is reminded that as part of its financial restructuring and following the completion on 18 December 2024 of the final steps of the Accelerated Safeguard Plan approved by the specialized Commercial Court of Nanterre on 24 October 2024, which resulted in:
    (i)      a €2.1 billion gross debt reduction through the equitization of €2.9 billion of existing financial debts and the repayment of €0.8 billion interim financings with the new money debt provided to the Company;

    (ii)      €1.6 billion of new money debt and €0.1 billion of new money equity from the rights issue and the additional reserved capital increase and

    (iii)      no debt maturities before the end of 2029,

    the Group now has the resources and flexibility to execute its midterm strategy.

    Operating margin to Operating income

    In € million 2024 2023
    Operating margin 199 467
    Reorganization -119 -696
    Rationalization and associated costs -37 -38
    Integration and acquisition costs 3 4
    Amortization of intangible assets (PPA from acquisitions) -57 -108
    Equity based compensation -2 -19
    Impairment of goodwill and other non-current assets -2 357 -2 546
    Other items -288 -169
    Operating (loss) -2 659 -3 106

    Non recurring items were a net expense of €2,858 million.

    Reorganization costs amounted to € 119 million.

    • Workforce adaptation measures relating mainly to restructuring plans launched in previous years were €77 million compared with €343 million in 2023, as the Group limited restructuring expenses to manage its cash position in 2024.
    • Separation and transformation related to the 2023 legal carve-out were incurred mostly at the start of the year for €42 million. In 2023, these costs amounted to €353 million, of which about one third corresponded to internal project costs.

    Rationalization and associated costs amounted to € 37 million compared to € 38 million in 2023, mainly corresponding to the continuation of the data centers consolidation program.

    Integration and acquisition costs amounted to € 3 million as certain earn-out and retention schemes did not materialize and were thus released to the income statement.

    Amortization of intangible assets recognized in the purchase price allocation amounted to €57 million and was mainly composed of Syntel customer relationships and technologies.

    Impairment of goodwill and other non-current assets amounted to € 2,357 million and mostly related:

    • To the impairment of goodwill for € 2,240 million in both Eviden (Americas and Northern Europe & APAC) and Tech Foundations (Northern Europe & APAC), and ;
    • To the impairment of customer relationships for € 109 million in Americas as a result of customer contract terminations.

    In 2024, Other items were a net expense of €288 million compared with €169 million in 2023 and included:

    • €74 million of net capital gain related to the sale of Worldgrid offset by additional losses recognized on past transactions ;
    • €160 million of losses related to onerous contracts that were accounted for in OOI in previous years;
    • €96 million of legal fees and settlement related to major litigations, including the settlement concluded with Unisys in December;
    • €78 million of current assets write offs; and
    • €28 million of costs related to early retirement programs in Germany, the UK and France as well as others non-recurring items.

    As a result, operating loss was at €-2,659 million, compared with a loss of €-3,106 million in 2023, reflecting primarily the €2,357 million impairment charge.

    Operating Income to Net income Group Share

    In € million 2024 2023
    Operating (loss) -2,659 -3,106
    Net financial income (expense) 3,121 -227
    Tax charge -214 -112
    Non-Controlling interests -1
    Share of net profit of equity-accounted investments 5
    Net income (loss) Group Share 248 -3,441
    Basic earning per share 0.034 -31.04
    Diluted earning per share 0.031 -31.04

    Net financial income was €3,121 million and was composed of:

    • The net cost of financial debt of €178 million, compared with €102 million in 2023. This €76 million increase mainly resulted from:
      • €38 million higher cost on the old debt (additional portions drawn on the RCF and higher interest rates on the Term Loan A);
      • €13m interests on the interim financing;
      • €12m interests on the new financing structure.
    • Other financial items for a net income of € 3,299 million in 2024 compared to net expense of € 125 million in 2023, composed mainly of:
      • The gain related to the financial restructuring of the Group for €3,520 million, detailed as follows:
    In € million 2024
    Fair value gain on the debt converted into equity 2,766
    Fair value gain on the new debt 965
    Fair value of the issued warrants -45
    Subtotal at financial restructuring date 3,686
    Costs and fees reported in the income statement -165
    Impact reported under the other financial income 3,520
    • Other items of €221 million, including notably:
      • €78 million of exit fees on Interim financing loans repaid as part of financial restructuring on December 18, 2024;
      • €36 million lease liability interest (€26 million in 2023). This variation mainly resulted from the increase in discount rates;
      • €30 million financial expense on pensions(€31 million in 2023). This pension financial cost represents the difference between interest costs on pension obligations and the return on plan assets;
      • €29 million of net foreign exchange loss, including hedges (loss of €19 million in 2023);
      • €15 million of prior year transaction costs included in financial debts, which were fully amortized in 2024 in the context of the financial restructuring of the Group.

    The tax charge for 2024 was €214 million, compared with €112 million in 2023. This €+102 million increase was mainly due to:

    • A €59 million impairment charge on deferred tax assets
    • A €37 million expense related to non-recoverable withholding tax

    Net income group share was €248 million, primarily due to a €3,520 million financial gain related to the financial restructuring of the Group and a €2,858 million cost recorded in Other Operating Income and Expenses, which included a €2,357 million impairment charges on goodwill and non-current assets.

    Earnings per share

    Basic earnings per share were €0.034. per share in 2024 and diluted earnings per share were €0.031 per share.

    Free cash flow and net cash

    In € million 2024 2023
    Operating Margin before Depreciation and Amortization (OMDA) 722 1,026
    Capital expenditures -444 -205
    Lease payments -301 -358
    Change in working capital requirement* -1,192 -391
    Cash from operations (CFO)* -1,214 73
    Tax paid -81 -77
    Net cost of financial debt paid -178 -102
    Reorganization in other operating income -245 -605
    Rationalization & associated costs in other operating income -9 -47
    Integration and acquisition costs in other operating income -3 -8
    Other changes** -504 -312
    Free Cash Flow (FCF) -2,233 -1,078
    Net (acquisitions) disposals 162 411
    Capital increase 3,049
    Share buy-back -2 -3
    Dividends paid -18 -35
    Change in net (debt) 958 -705
    Opening net cash (debt) -2,230 -1,450
    Change in net cash (debt) 958 -705
    Foreign exchange rate fluctuation on net cash (debt) 34 -75
    Closing net (debt) excl. IFRS fair value treatment -1,238 -2,230
    IFRS Debt fair value treatment 963
    Closing net (debt) -275 -2,230

    * Change in working capital requirement excluding the working capital requirement change related to items reported in other operating income and expense.

    ** “Other changes” include other operating income and expense with cash impact (excluding staff reorganization, rationalization and associated costs, integration and acquisition costs) and other financial items with cash impact, net long term financial investments excluding acquisitions and disposals, and profit sharing amounts payable transferred to debt

    Free cash flow was €-2,233 million in 2024 reflecting primarily the end of one-off working capital optimization actions resulting in a negative change in working capital requirement for €1,498 million and higher capex linked to HPC contracts for €239 million.

    Capital expenditures and lease payments totaled €745 million, up €182 million from the prior year reflecting a significant investment in the energy-efficient Exascale technology.

    Change in working capital requirement was €-1,192 million, primarily from €-1,498 million lower working capital optimization compared with end of fiscal 2023. As at December 2024, working capital benefited from invoices paid in advance by customers for € 319 million, without any discount and on a pure voluntary basis. As at December 31, 2023, total specific optimization carried out by the Group to optimize its working capital amounted to € 1,817 million.

    Cash out related to taxes paid increased by € 4 million and amounted to € 81 million in 2024, including € 6 million of taxes paid in connection with carve-out transactions completed in 2024.

    Net cost of financial debt was €178 million as explained above.

    The total of reorganization, rationalization & associated costs and integration & acquisition costs reached €256 million compared with €660 million in 2023 and included:

    • €135 million of reorganization costs in connection with restructuring measures as well as the continuation of the German restructuring plans; and
    • €110 million of costs related to the outstanding activities on the separation of the Group incurred mostly over the first quarter of the year.

    Cash out related to Other changes was €-504 million compared to € -312 million in 2023, and included:

    • €166 million of costs incurred on onerous contracts (purchase commitments and customer contracts);
    • €144 million of transaction costs paid in the context of the financial restructuring;
    • €78 million of exit fees on interim financing
    • Costs related to litigations

    As a result of the above impacts mainly driven by the change in the working capital requirement, the Group Free Cash Flow was € -2,233 million in 2024, compared to € -1,078 million in 2023.

    The net cash impact resulting from disposals was €162 million mainly related to the net cash proceeds from the Worldgrid disposal of €232 million, partly offset by the write-off of a receivable on a past disposal.

    Capital increase amounted to €3,049 million and were made of :

    • €2,904 million of equitization of financial debts; and
    • €145 million of new money equity raised mainly from the Rights Issue

    In the context of the financial restructuring process of the Group.

    No dividends were paid to Atos SE shareholders in 2024. The €18 million cash out (€35 million in 2023) corresponded to taxes withheld on internal dividend distributions and to dividends paid to minority interests.

    Foreign exchange rate fluctuation determined on debt or cash exposure by country represented a decrease in net debt of €34 million.

    As a result, the Group net debt position as of December 31, 2024 was €275 million (€1,238 million excluding the IFRS 9 debt fair value treatment), compared to €2,230 million as of December 31, 2023.

    Consolidated financial statements

    Atos consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024, were approved by the Board of Directors on March 4, 2025. Audit procedures on the consolidated financial statements have been completed and the audit report will be issued after the review of the 2024 Universal Registration Document.

    Advance Computing sales process update

    On November 25, 2024, Atos announced that it has received a non-binding offer from the French State for the potential acquisition of 100% of the Advanced Computing activities of its BDS division, based on an enterprise value of €500 million, to be potentially increased to €625 million including earn-outs.

    The offer received from the French State provides for an exclusivity period until May 31, 2025. If the exclusive negotiations lead to an agreement and subject to obtaining the customary commercial, employee and administrative authorizations, a Share Purchase Agreement, subject to work councils’, opinion may be signed by that date. An initial payment of €150 million is expected to be made available to Atos upon signing of the Share Purchase Agreement.

    In addition, Atos has engaged into a sale process for its Mission Critical Systems business.

    Capital Markets Day

    Atos will present an update of its strategy and organization during a Capital Markets Day that will be held in Paris on May 14, 2025.

    Dividend

    Atos Board of Directors decided, in its meeting held on March 4, 2025, not to propose a dividend payment to the next Annual General Meeting.

    Conference call

    Atos’ Management invites you to an international conference call on the Group 2024 results, on Wednesday, March 5th, 2025 at 08:00 am (CET – Paris).

    You can join the webcast of the conference:

    • via the following link: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/5g7hv4ka
    • by telephone with the dial-in, 10 minutes prior the starting time. Please note that if you want to join the webcast by telephone, you must register in advance of the conference using the following link:

    https://register.vevent.com/register/BIa3f9570d64b4412c8f5192ad4ad6d30b

    Upon registration, you will be provided with Participant Dial In Numbers, a Direct Event Passcode and a unique Registrant ID. Call reminders will also be sent via email the day prior to the event.
    During the 10 minutes prior to the beginning of the call, you will need to use the conference access information provided in the email received upon registration.

    After the conference, a replay of the webcast will be available on atos.net, in the Investors section.

    Forthcoming events

    April 25, 2025 (Before Market Opening) First quarter 2025 revenue
    May 14, 2025 Capital Markets Day
    June 13, 2025 Annual General Meeting
       
    August 1st, 2025 (Before Market Opening)  First semester 2025 results

    APPENDIX

    Q4 2024 revenue

    In € million Q4 2024
    Revenue
    Q4 2023
    Revenue*
    Organic variation*
    Eviden 1,126 1,280 -12.0%
    Tech Foundations 1,182 1,329 -11.0%
    Total 2,309 2,608 -11.5%
    In € million Q4 2024
    Revenue
    Q4 2023
    Revenue*
    Organic variation*
    North America 410 528 -22.3%
    UK / IR 322 447 -28.1%
    Benelux and the Nordics (BTN) 218 232 -6.1%
    Central Europe 586 580 +1.1%
    Southern Europe 519 556 -6.6%
    Growing markets 251 261 -3.9%
    Others & Global structures 2 4 -34.6%
    Total 2,309 2,608 -11.5%

    *: at constant scope and December 2024 average exchange rates

    Group revenue was €2,309 million in Q4, down -11.5% organically compared with Q4 2023.

    Eviden revenue was €1,126 million, down -12.0% organically.

    • Digital activities decreased double digit. The business was impacted by previously-established contract terminations contract scope reductions, as well as the continued market softness in North America and in the UK & Ireland.
    • Big Data & Security (BDS) revenue grew low single digit organically. Advanced Computing grew with large project deliveries in Germany.

    Tech Foundations revenue was €1,182.0 million, down -11.0% organically.

    • Core revenue (excluding BPO and value-added resale (“VAR”)) decreased high-single digit, mainly impacted by contract terminations in North America and previously-established contract scope and volume reduction in UK.
    • Non-core revenue declined double digit reflecting deliberate reduction of BPO activities in the UK and less value-added resale for hardware and software products.

    FY 2023 revenue and operating margin at constant scope and exchange rates reconciliation

    For the analysis of the Group’s performance, revenue and OM for FY 2024 is compared with FY 2023 revenue and OM at constant scope and foreign exchange rates. Reconciliation between the FY 2023 reported revenue and OM, and the FY 2023 revenue and OM at constant scope and foreign exchange rates is presented below, by Business Lines and Regional Business Units.

    FY 2023 revenue
    In € million
    FY 2023
    published
    Internal transfers Scope effects Exchange rates effects FY 2023*
    Eviden 5,089 33 -192 7 4,937
    Tech Foundations 5,604 -33 -401 17 5,187
    Total 10,693 0 -592 24 10,124
               
               
    FY 2023 revenue
    In € million
    FY 2023
    published
    Internal transfers Scope effects Exchange rates effects FY 2023*
    North America 2,280 -1 -96 -6 2,177
    Benelux and the Nordics (BTN) 911 0 -7 0 905
    UK / IR 1,770 0 -53 47 1,763
    Central Europe 2,506 0 -254 2 2,253
    Southern Europe 2,284 0 -164 0 2,119
    Growing Markets 930 0 -18 -19 893
    Others & Global structures 12 1 0 0 13
    Total 10,693 0 -592 24 10,124

    *: at constant scope and December 2024 average exchange rates

    FY 2023 Operating margin
    In € million
    FY 2023
    published
    Internal transfers Scope effects Exchange rates effects FY 2023*
    Eviden 294 0 -25 2 272
    Tech Foundations 172 0 -20 -1 151
    Total 467 0 -45 1 423
               
               
    FY 2023 Operating margin
    In € million
    FY 2023
    published
    Internal transfers Scope effects Exchange rates effects FY 2023*
    North America 244 1 -15 -1 229
    Benelux and the Nordics (BTN) 23 0 -1 0 23
    UK / IR 75 4 -5 2 77
    Central Europe 31 -3 -6 0 23
    Southern Europe 99 -2 -16 0 82
    Growing Markets 92 0 -3 -1 88
    Others & Global structures -97 -1 0 0 -98
    Total 467 0 -45 1 423

    *: at constant scope and December 2024 average exchange rates

    Scope effects on revenue amounted to €-592 million and €-45 million on operating margin. They mainly related to the divesture of UCC, EcoAct, Italy, State Street JV, and Worldgrid.

    Currency effects positively contributed to revenue for €+24 million and €+1 million on operating margin. They mostly came from the appreciation of the British pound, partially compensated by the depreciation of the Brazilian real, the US dollar, the Argentinian peso and the Turkish lira.

    Q4 2023 revenue at constant scope and exchange rates reconciliation

    For the analysis of the Group’s performance, revenue for Q4 2024 is compared with 2023 revenue at constant scope and foreign exchange rates.

    In 2023, the Group reviewed the accounting treatment of certain third-party standard software resale transactions following the decision published by ESMA in October 2023 that illustrated the IFRS IC decision and enacted a restrictive position on the assessment of Principal vs. Agent under IFRS 15 for such transactions. The Q4 2023 revenue is therefore restated by € +48 million. The impact affected Eviden in North America RBU.

    Reconciliation between the 2023 reported fourth quarter revenue and the 2023 fourth quarter revenue at constant scope and foreign exchange rates is presented below, by Business Lines and Regional Business Units:

    Q4 2023 revenue
    In € million
    Q4 2023 published Restatement Q4 2023 restated Internal transfers Scope effects Exchange rates effects Q4 2023*
    Eviden            1,247                   48 1,295     -1 -22 8           1,280   
    Tech Foundations           1,308              1,308    1 -1 21           1,329   
    Total 2,555 48 2,602 0 -23 29 2,608
                   
                   
    Q4 2023 revenue
    In € million
    Q4 2023 published Restatement Q4 2023 restated Internal transfers Scope effects Exchange rates effects Q4 2023*
    North America 483 48 531 -1 -1 -1 528
    Benelux and the Nordics 233 0 233 0 -1 0 232
    UK / IR 433 0 433 0 -3 18 447
    Central Europe 582 0 582 0 -2 0 580
    Southern Europe 571 0 571 0 -16 0 556
    Growing markets 250 0 250 0 0 12 261
    Others & Global structures 3 0 3 1 0 0 4
    Total 2,555 48 2,602 0 -23 29 2,608

    *: at constant scope and December 2024 average exchange rates

    Disclaimer

    This document contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, including references, concerning the Group’s expected growth and profitability in the future which may significantly impact the expected performance indicated in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties are linked to factors out of the control of the Company and not precisely estimated, such as market conditions or competitors’ behaviors. Any forward-looking statements made in this document are statements about Atos’s beliefs and expectations and should be evaluated as such. Forward-looking statements include statements that may relate to Atos’s plans, objectives, strategies, goals, future events, future revenues or synergies, or performance, and other information that is not historical information. Actual events or results may differ from those described in this document due to a number of risks and uncertainties that are described within the 2023 Universal Registration Document filed with the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) on May 24, 2024 under the registration number D.24-0429, as updated by chapter 2 “Risk factors” of the first amendment to Atos’ 2023 universal registration document filed with the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) on November 7, 2024 under the registration number D.24-0429-A01 and by chapter 2 “Risk factors” of the second amendment to Atos’ 2023 universal registration document filed with the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) on December 11, 2024 under the registration number D.24-0429-A02, and the half-year report filed published on August 6, 2024. Atos does not undertake, and specifically disclaims, any obligation or responsibility to update or amend any of the information above except as otherwise required by law.

    This document does not contain or constitute an offer of Atos’s shares for sale or an invitation or inducement to invest in Atos’s shares in France, the United States of America or any other jurisdiction. This document includes information on specific transactions that shall be considered as projects only. In particular, any decision relating to the information or projects mentioned in this document and their terms and conditions will only be made after the ongoing in-depth analysis considering tax, legal, operational, finance, HR and all other relevant aspects have been completed and will be subject to general market conditions and other customary conditions, including governance bodies and shareholders’ approval as well as appropriate processes with the relevant employee representative bodies in accordance with applicable laws.

    About Atos

    Atos is a global leader in digital transformation with circa 78,000 employees and annual revenue of circa €10 billion. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, the Group provides tailored end-to-end solutions for all industries in 68 countries. A pioneer in decarbonization services and products, Atos is committed to a secure and decarbonized digital for its clients. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea) and listed on Euronext Paris.

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

    Contacts

    Investor relations:

    David Pierre-Kahn | investors@atos.net | +33 6 28 51 45 96

    Sofiane El Amri | investors@atos.net | +33 6 29 34 85 67

    Individual shareholders: +33 8 05 65 00 75

    Press contact: globalprteam@atos.net

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Response to President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) released the below statement following President Donald Trump’s Joint Address to Congress tonight. 
    “Nevadans sent me to the U.S. Senate to work with anyone – no matter the political party – to deliver for our state. While I’ve been open to working with President Donald Trump when it’s right for Nevada, he has made it clear that he’s not interested in taking meaningful bipartisan action to lower costs for families,” said Senator Rosen. “Instead, Trump is looking to cut Medicaid to pay for more tax giveaways for billionaires, add new taxes on products from Mexico and Canada, and give Elon Musk unprecedented control over the federal government with no guardrails to prevent conflicts of interest. This is not what Nevadans voted for, and I’ll continue pushing back on actions that hurt our state.”
    Senator Rosen has strongly opposed Republicans’ budget plans that would give tax breaks to the ultra-wealthy by cutting programs Nevadans rely on. Earlier this month, Senator Rosen opposed Republicans’ extreme budget resolution that will gut programs like Medicaid and SNAP to pay for more tax cuts for the richest Americans. She also took to the Senate floor to call out Congressional Republicans for this extreme budget plan. Senator Rosen joined her Senate colleagues in urging President Donald Trump to reject Congressional Republicans’ legislative plans to increase the cost of living for Americans.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Statement on President Trump’s Address to Congress

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) after attending President Trump’s Address to Congress.
    “President Trump spent tonight’s address repeating falsehoods and attacking our allies without actually offering solutions to lower costs. From raising prices on families to threatening to gut Medicaid, Social Security, and public education funding – Donald Trump is focused on paying for tax breaks for his billionaire friends and seems happy to leave middle-class Americans with the bill. While the President offers empty words, my priority will continue to be delivering for Nevadans and lowering the cost of living.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed: Trump’s Speech Fell Flat Because His Rhetoric Failed to Meet Reality & Economy is Backsliding Under Trump

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jack Reed issued the following statement in response to President Trump’s address to Congress:
    “Tonight, the American people heard a lot of hot air from President Trump.  What they didn’t hear was a credible plan to lower prices, help working families, and address middle-class concerns. 
    “President Trump’s speech fell flat because his rhetoric failed to meet reality.  The facts speak for themselves: Trump’s policies are raising costs and weakening America.  He’s laying off air safety and defense workers.  He’s imposing costly tariffs and increasing health care costs by threatening Medicaid and Medicare.  President Trump is undermining confidence in U.S. governance, fueling uncertainty, and stoking inflation.  The economy is backsliding and prices are rising due to Trump’s toxic mismanagement.
    “His misguided actions make it clear he’s prioritizing his fellow billionaires over working Americans.  President Trump is racing to try and jam through a billionaires-first tax cut that will leave everyday Americans behind.
    “You don’t need a fact-checker for all the whoppers he told because people can simply look at their wallets and grocery bills to see Trump sold them a bad bill of goods.  Americans are rightfully frustrated that Donald Trump is breaking promises and giving the working-class a raw deal. 
    “It was incredibly tone deaf to declare ‘the days of being ruled by unelected bureaucrats are over’ and then he went on to spotlight Elon Musk in his guest box.  What Trump and Musk are systematically attempting to do is undermine and politicize institutions and conventions that are foundational to democracy. 
    “Congress must wisely invest in people and infrastructure to effectively serve taxpayers, expand opportunity, and build for the future. 
    “President Trump needs to change course.  Progress is possible.  Not with speeches or gaslighting, but with action, innovation, and a principled commitment to building a stronger, more resilient, competitive, and prosperous United States of America.”

    MIL OSI USA News