Category: Artificial Intelligence

MIL-OSI United Nations: Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women Launches General Recommendation 40 on the Equal and Inclusive Representation of Women in Decision-Making Systems

Source: United Nations – Geneva

The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women this morning launched its general recommendation no. 40 on the equal and inclusive representation of women in decision-making systems.

In opening remarks, Volker Türk, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, congratulated everyone involved in the general recommendation. The outdated patriarchal system was at the root of many problems faced today. The power to suppress and silence, to wage war and wreak havoc, was too often wielded by angry egotistical short-sighted men. Women remained starkly underrepresented in decision-making systems. General recommendation 40 put forward immediate, concrete recommendations across the board to make gender parity a reality by 2030. Gender parity could not be partial; it needed to be 50/50.

Presenting the general recommendation, Nicole Ameline, Committee Expert, said general recommendation 40 offered an operational, concrete roadmap accessible to all States and would be accompanied by tools, mechanisms and new solutions. The Committee was counting on States, especially parliaments, civil society and the United Nations system, to build together this necessary transition, without delay.

Tania María Abdo Rocholl, Chair of the Human Rights Committee; Nyaradzayi Gumbonzvanda, Deputy Executive Director for Normative Support, United Nations Women; and Martin Chungong, Secretary-General, Inter-Parliamentary Union, also gave statements. Countries and civil society then took to the floor to reiterate their support for general recommendation 40.

Speaking in the discussion were France, China, Saudi Arabia, Togo, Ireland, Luxembourg, Burkina Faso, Spain, Chile, Italy, Slovenia, Bolivia, Russian Federation, Egypt, Mexico, Norway, Belgium, Benin, Azerbaijan, Cabo Verde, Nepal, Bulgaria, Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Honduras, South Africa, Algeria, Mauritius, Venezuela, Gambia and Colombia.

Also speaking were: GQUAL Campaign, Women@the table, International Disability Alliance and FUNDACIÓN LEGĀTUM.

The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women’s eighty-ninth session is being held from 7 October to 25 October. All documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage. Meeting summary releases can be found here. The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

The Committee will next meet in public at 5.pm. on Friday, 25 October to close its eighty-ninth session.

Introductory Statements

ANA PELÁEZ NARVÁEZ, Committee Chairperson, said today would go down in history. Today there would be roadmap to begin securing the principle of parity as a universal principle to manage and lead the world.

VOLKER TÜRK, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, congratulated everyone involved in the general recommendation. The conflict, deepening inequality, and the destruction of the planet begged the question of how to build a more peaceful tomorrow when today was violent and full of turmoil. The outdated patriarchal system was at the root of many problems faced today. The power to suppress and silence, to wage war and wreak havoc, was too often wielded by angry egotistical short-sighted men. Women remained starkly underrepresented in decision-making systems. This was a grave paradox and so this important general comment needed to be a milestone.

While there had been some progress in gender parity, it came at a very slow pace. Gender parity was a human right. The rights of women in all their diversity were non-negotiable. Gender parity was transformative and unlocked capacities to innovate and be creative. Women were agents of peace. Their full participation in society helped to prevent conflict. It was beyond time for women to take their rightful place at all the important tables. Gender equality needed to be built into the algorithms which ruled today’s digital lives. General recommendation 40 put forward immediate, concrete recommendations across the board to make gender parity a reality by 2030. Gender parity could not be partial; it needed to be 50/50. Achieving true gender parity meant the deeply entrenched patriarchal structures needed to be dismantled. This could involve Constitutional amendments, legal reforms, national action plans, and temporary special measures. Regimes which amounted to gender apartheid needed to be denounced.

NICOLE AMELINE, Committee Expert, said general recommendation 40 was designed by the Committee within the framework of its mandate, and was part of the urgency of our time, characterised by disruptive developments that were changing systems, and which needed to lead to a radical revision of decision-making systems. Only a systemic, comprehensive and inclusive approach based on 50/50 parity as a principle of governance could ensure the respect of this fundamental right and the progress of societies. At a time when the escalation of conflicts, crises and tensions were severely impacting women’s rights, when the digital transition was reinventing organizational systems, when the climate transition was affecting living conditions, the only response to these challenges was in collective intelligence and parity that associated women at all levels and in an inclusive way in the decision-making system.

Only a global movement could ensure the necessary paradigm shift. General recommendation 40 offered an operational, concrete roadmap accessible to all States and would be accompanied by tools, mechanisms and new solutions. The Committee was counting on States, especially parliaments, civil society and the United Nations system to build together this necessary transition, without delay. Ms. Ameline thanked all those who had been involved in the launch.

TANIA MARÍA ABDO ROCHOLL, Chairperson of the Human Rights Committee, underscored the importance of a cross-cutting approach when it came to the general recommendation. General recommendation 40 was a specific call to action to ensure equal access and power in decision-making. The recommendation was a gift that the Committee had given to all women in the world.

NYARADZAYI GUMBONZVANDA, Deputy Executive Director for Normative Support, United Nations Women, congratulated the Committee for the recommendation. United Nations Women had supported the drafting process during the five regional consultation meetings. General recommendation 40 was a visionary parity roadmap envisaging steps that States needed to take to reach parity at all levels. This should inspire everyone to push forward and commit to making gender equality a reality.

MARTIN CHUNGONG, Secretary-General, Inter-Parliamentary Union, said the launch of general recommendation 40 was a milestone which marked the beginning of a new chapter for women’s leadership. The adoption of the new recommendation came at a time of political polarisation and multiple crises. Women’s representation in parliaments had steadily improved, reaching 27 per cent, but there was still much work to do. Violence against women in politics was an abhorrent phenomenon. As emerging technologies like artificial intelligence reshaped decision-making, it was important that women had a place at the table.

Discussion

In the discussion, speakers among other things said today was a truly historic day and congratulated the Committee for the adoption of the general recommendation. The recommendation came at a time when the world was facing challenges which called for equal representation of women and men. Speakers reiterated their support to the recommendation. Parity and a participatory approach were vital in decision-making. Many speakers reaffirmed their commitment to equality in all its forms and to parity in parliaments, including increasing funding to women-led organizations.

In the face of the many global challenges that the world was confronting today, it was clear that current governance systems needed to be revised to ensure that women’s voices were at the forefront of decision-making processes at every level. Many speakers emphasised that they fully shared the Committee’s recommendation on the importance of ensuring the equal participation of women and girls in decision-making on emerging issues, such as new digital technologies and artificial intelligence, as well as on climate action. Ensuring all women and girls’ full, equal and meaningful participation in decision-making processes was necessary to develop climate policies that were inclusive, fair and sustainable. Women needed to be equal users of technology and equal architects of the networks which shaped the future. To achieve and sustain a well-functioning democracy, women’s political participation was a prerequisite.

While the world had come a long way in the last century, progress remained slow. At the outset, decision-making spheres were unfortunately influenced by traditional rules built around the patriarchal system, as well as by the almost instinctive precedence of men over women. The major challenges in terms of equality and inclusion in decision-making faced by many countries remained that of the fight against harmful traditional practices and the neutrality of the legal framework.

Despite being powerful agents of change, women were underrepresented in decision-making at all levels, especially those facing multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination.

States were urged to take bold, concrete steps to close gender gaps, both nationally and within the United Nations system. This included advocating for initiatives like appointing the first-ever female Secretary-General of the United Nations, and ensuring gender parity in leadership positions, such as the Presidency of the General Assembly. These were vital steps to create an inclusive global governance framework that delivered for all.

One speaker noted that 50/50 parity was counterproductive. What was done in such countries where women were more than 50 per cent in parliament? If countries were just working with figures, they would not achieve the necessary results. The general recommendation was the view of experts and did not impose additional obligations on States.

Another speaker said the adoption of the general recommendation was on the eve of the thirtieth anniversary of the Beijing Declaration. This provided an important opportunity to reflect on the progress made and the significant challenges which remained when addressing gender equality. Special temporary measures were still needed to achieve equality in economic sectors and in decision making.

Speakers underscored that ensuring equal and inclusive representation of women was not only essential for progress but also a moral imperative and an international obligation. The systemic exclusion of women from decision-making processes robbed the world of the potential of half its population. General recommendation 40 provided critical guidance for States to address this imbalance and ensured equal representation in both the public and private sectors.

Concluding Remarks

ANA PELÁEZ NARVÁEZ, Committee Chairperson, thanked everyone who had contributed to the launch of general recommendation 40. She encouraged everyone to spread the word and assist the Committee and States in its implementation. Ms. Peláez Narváez thanked Committee Expert Nicole Ameline for her contributions and important legacy.

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CEDAW.24.033E

Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the information media; not an official record.

English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women Holds Informal Meeting with States Parties

Source: United Nations – Geneva

The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women this morning held an informal meeting with States parties.

Committee Experts briefed States parties on the Committee’s work on individual communications; gender-based violence against women; the women, peace and security agenda; and the strengthening and harmonisation of working methods.

The Russian Federation, Finland, Chile, China and Spain took the floor to make comments and ask questions.

The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women’s eighty-ninth session is being held from 7 October to 25 October. All documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage. Meeting summary releases can be found here. The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

The Committee will next meet in public at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, 25 October to launch its general recommendation 40 on the equal and inclusive representation of women in decision-making systems.

Statements by Committee Experts

ANA PELÁEZ NARVÁEZ, Committee Chairperson, said the meeting today aimed to provide Member States with information about the work that the Committee had carried out over the past two years, and work for the future. Over the past two years, the Committee had held constructive dialogues with around 25 States every year. There were currently 37 States pending review. Regrettably, due to the liquidity crisis, one of the pre-sessional meetings of the Committee was cancelled, which meant some delays. Thirteen States had chosen not to abide by the simplified reporting procedure.

The Committee had pursued its work in considering all the communications submitted to the working group on communications. In 2023, the Committee registered 19 cases, adopting 12 decisions and determining rights violations in six of those cases. The Committee had approved a confidential inquiry on the right to abortion, which was published this year. Last year, the Committee paid a confidential visit to a State party regarding the kidnapping of girls by armed groups.

It was regretful that the meetings of the working groups had been reduced due to the liquidity crisis. Today, the Committee would launch a general recommendation which guaranteed parity in participation. During the next session, the Committee would hold a half day debate with States parties to address the upcoming general recommendation. Ms. Peláez Narváez appealed to Member States for additional funding to carry out the Committee’s work, particularly in the case of general recommendation 41.

The Committee co-chaired the Platform of Independent Expert Mechanisms on Discrimination and Violence against Women which coordinated mechanisms relating to violence against women. A document would be developed and made available to Member States. Despite setbacks, the Committee continued to carry out its work. Member States were urged to support the use of a predictable review calendar, with a view to strengthening the treaty body system. The Committee was requesting resources to implement these proposals.

MARION BETHEL, Committee Vice Chair, said the working group on gender-based violence was formed in 2021. The work of the working group focused on using the Convention framework jurisprudence, based on the Committee’s concluding observations, communications, views and inquiry findings, as a tool to address norms that influenced legislation, policies and programmes around gender-based violence. The working group held States parties responsible for preventing, investigating and prosecuting cases of gender-based violence. During dialogues, States were urged to implement the necessary political will to address gender-based violence.

The Working Group had also produced a paper which underscored the adequacy of the Convention framework as the mechanism for addressing gender-based violence against women, which highlighted the pressing need for better implementation of the existing framework of the Convention. Through the general recommendation 40, the Committee stressed that gender-based violence against women was the result of an unequal and discriminatory system, based on the structural domination and exclusion of women. The Committee urged States parties to adopt a comprehensive approach and implement all rights under the Convention, including institutionalising parity, as the key safeguard against gender-based violence.

ESTHER EGHOBAMIEN, Committee Expert, said emerging technologies made cyberspace a place for committing different forms of violence. Instruments to deal with cyber violence were currently limited, including the Budapest Convention 2004, among others. Currently, around 80 per cent of United Nations Member States had an international law discussing cybercrime. However, there was no universally accepted definition for online violence which specifically targeted women and recognised their vulnerability. Therefore, the Committee’s work focused on legal governance, including the new global convention which failed to address certain components of the Convention. The Committee was engaging in activities which would address cybercrime and violence.

BANDANA RANA, Committee Expert, said the Committee continued to be deeply concerned at the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan, where the denial to women and girls of education, employment, restrictions on movement, and presence in public spaces constituted grave violations of the Convention. In January 2022 the Committee requested information from the de facto authorities on measures for the prevention of gender-based violence and the curtailment of rights in all sectors. In their response, the de facto authorities claimed substantial improvements in the status and rights of women, which starkly contradicted with the increase in the abuses reported on the ground.

In discussions with Afghan civil society, organizations urged the Committee to continue engagement using the full potential of the Convention mechanism for advancing accountability. In this regard, the Committee had initiated discussion and preparation for considering the fourth periodic report of Afghanistan. The Committee called on all stakeholders to engage in the process for safeguarding the human rights and fundamental freedoms of women and girls in Afghanistan as enshrined in the Convention.

RANGITA DE SILVA DE ALWIS, Committee Expert, said the Committee was concerned that women’s voices were still missing from key security forums. The women, peace and security agenda had transformed, as had the Committee’s ways of implementing it. Women’s minds were battlegrounds for power and control, especially in the context of an institutionalised ban of women’s education under the Taliban. The Committee had also raised the alarm on food insecurity in Gaza. The next 25 years would range new challenges, where women were required to lead urgent responses to crisis prevention.

HIROKO AKIZUKI, Committee Expert, said in 2022, the Committee made a significant decision to endorse the proposal of the annual meeting of the Chairpersons of the human rights treaty bodies to implement a predictable 8-year reporting calendar once operationalised, which would include follow-up reviews in between. In October 2023, the Committee amended its rules of procedure to introduce a new rule, allowing for the examination of State party reports in the absence of their representatives. To promote more effective and constructive dialogues, the Committee decided to identify five to 10 priority themes for discussion, which were communicated to the State party two days in advance of the dialogue. In May 2024, the Committee accepted an invitation from the South Pacific Community to organise a technical cooperation event in Fiji in 2025, during which the Committee planned to engage with three States parties from the region. The concluding observations would be adopted at the subsequent formal session of the Committee in Geneva.

Questions and Comments by States Parties

Russian Federation took note of the work of the Committee to consider individual reports to parties of the Convention. The problem of violence against women was a topical issue. The Committee was called on to use clearer wording in this regard. The item on the agenda of the Security Council on women, peace and security had nothing to do with the Convention. There was a disproportionate use of time within the Committee’s sessions. The consideration of individual communications led to delays in considering States parties reports. Considering reports in the absence of a delegation was counterproductive.

Finland said the treaty bodies contributed to the scope of human rights law. The Committee’s work on gender-based violence was important, as was the women, peace and security agenda. Had any measures been taken to establish a more structured follow-up procedure to individual communications?

Chile said it was aware of the Convention’s importance and reiterated strong support to the Convention and its principles, including the Optional Protocol. The Committee had made significant progress in combatting gender-based violence. Violence against women and girls was one of the most flagrant violations of human rights, rooted in gender stereotypes. Chile had developed a policy to combat gender-based violence, which took the Committee’s recommendations into account. Chile was seriously concerned by the situation of women and girls in Afghanistan. The State would work tirelessly to implement the principles of the Convention.

China said it would continue to support the Committee’s critical role in strengthening human rights globally. Nearly 30 years ago, the fourth World Conference on Women was held in Beijing. Over the past three decades, the spirit of the Beijing Declaration had been upheld and the social status of women had been significantly enhanced. At the recent conclusion of the Human Rights Council’s fifty-seventh session, China and other countries sponsored a resolution to mark the Declaration’s thirtieth anniversary, which was unanimously adopted. Treaty bodies should hold extensive consultation with States parties regarding their working methods.

Spain said it supported streamlining and coordinating procedures and was concerned at the impact of the liquidity crisis on the Committee’s work.

Responses by the Committee Experts

NAHLA HAIDAR, Committee Expert, said there was no structured follow-up procedure as such for communications. There was an inter-committee focused on this issue. It was hoped this issue would be resolved shortly. The issue of the financial crisis had greatly impacted the Committee’s work.

HIROKO AKIZUKI, Committee Expert, said the participation of State party representatives in person was very important and effective for the dialogue. Once the eight-year cycle was operational, the country list would be published. Countries should be ready to come to Geneva to speak with the Committee.

BANDANA RANA, Committee Expert, said the Committee’s general recommendation 30 on women in conflict situations and peacebuilding provided a mechanism to assess and recommend stronger measures for addressing the rights of women in conflict and post conflict.

RANGITA DE SILVA DE ALWIS, Committee Expert, said the women, peace and security agenda was built on four pillars. Unfortunately, the pillar on prevention of conflict had not been given the same emphasis as the protection of women during the aftermath of conflict. The women, peace and security agenda’s main goal was to create a geopolitical situation to address the ways that women’s leadership could strengthen the agenda and general recommendation 30.

MARION BETHEL, Vice Chair, said a paper had been published on the Committee’s website which illustrated the adequacy of the Convention in addressing gender-based violence as a form of gender discrimination. It was important to implement legislation, policies and programmes to prevent gender-based violence, as well as carry out investigations into cases and provide reparations for victims. The document served as a guidance tool for States parties to incorporate into their legislation.

In concluding remarks, ANA PELÁEZ NARVÁEZ, Committee Chairperson, thanked everyone for their participation in the dialogue. The meeting had been important to address concerns raised by Members States.

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CEDAW.24.032E

Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the information media; not an official record.

English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: TeraWulf Inc. Announces Closing of $500 Million 2.75% Convertible Senior Notes Offering

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

EASTON, Md., Oct. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TeraWulf Inc. (Nasdaq: WULF) (“TeraWulf” or the “Company”), a leading owner and operator of vertically integrated, next-generation digital infrastructure powered by predominantly zero-carbon energy, today completed its previously announced offering of 2.75% Convertible Senior Notes due 2030 (the “Convertible Notes”) in a private placement to persons reasonably believed to be qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). The aggregate principal amount of notes sold in the offering was $500 million, which includes $75 million aggregate principal amount of notes issued pursuant to an option to purchase additional notes granted to the initial purchasers.

In conjunction with the issuance of the Convertible Notes, the Company entered into capped call transactions with a cap price of $12.80 (representing a premium of 100% over the last reported sale price) and repurchased $115 million of the Company’s common stock.

The table below illustrates the potential net dilution expectations from the overall transaction.

The net proceeds from the sale of the Convertible Notes were approximately $487.1 million after deducting the initial purchasers’ discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by the Company. The Company expects to use $60 million of the net proceeds to pay the cost of the capped call transactions, $115 million to repurchase shares of its common stock and the remainder for general corporate purposes, which may include working capital, strategic acquisitions, expansion of data center infrastructure to support high-performance computing activities and expansion of existing assets.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. Such forward-looking statements include statements concerning anticipated future events and expectations that are not historical facts. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as “plan,” “believe,” “goal,” “target,” “aim,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “outlook,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “project,” “continue,” “could,” “may,” “might,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “should,” “would” and other similar words and expressions, although the absence of these words or expressions does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are based on the current expectations and beliefs of TeraWulf’s management and are inherently subject to a number of factors, risks, uncertainties and assumptions and their potential effects. There can be no assurance that future developments will be those that have been anticipated. Actual results may vary materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements based on a number of factors, risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including, among others: (1) conditions in the cryptocurrency mining industry, including fluctuation in the market pricing of bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, and the economics of cryptocurrency mining, including as to variables or factors affecting the cost, efficiency and profitability of cryptocurrency mining; (2) competition among the various providers of cryptocurrency mining services; (3) changes in applicable laws, regulations and/or permits affecting TeraWulf’s operations or the industries in which it operates, including regulation regarding power generation, cryptocurrency usage and/or cryptocurrency mining, and/or regulation regarding safety, health, environmental and other matters, which could require significant expenditures; (4) the ability to implement certain business objectives and to timely and cost-effectively execute integrated projects; (5) failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and/or on acceptable terms with regard to growth strategies or operations; (6) loss of public confidence in bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies and the potential for cryptocurrency market manipulation; (7) adverse geopolitical or economic conditions, including a high inflationary environment; (8) the potential of cybercrime, money-laundering, malware infections and phishing and/or loss and interference as a result of equipment malfunction or break-down, physical disaster, data security breach, computer malfunction or sabotage (and the costs associated with any of the foregoing); (9) the availability, delivery schedule and cost of equipment necessary to maintain and grow the business and operations of TeraWulf, including mining equipment and infrastructure equipment meeting the technical or other specifications required to achieve its growth strategy; (10) employment workforce factors, including the loss of key employees; (11) litigation relating to TeraWulf and/or its business; and (12) other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Potential investors, stockholders and other readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they were made. TeraWulf does not assume any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement after it was made, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law or regulation. Investors are referred to the full discussion of risks and uncertainties associated with forward-looking statements and the discussion of risk factors contained in the Company’s filings with the SEC, which are available at www.sec.gov.

Investors:
Investors@terawulf.com

Media:
media@terawulf.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6dc9f0ea-cb8a-4910-9e05-daa4d5422db6

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Administrator Samantha Power Meets with UK Minister of State for Development Anneliese Dodds

Source: USAID

The below is attributable to Spokesperson Benjamin Suarato:‎

Today, Administrator Samantha Power met with Anneliese Dodds, the United Kingdom’s Minister of State for Development and Minister of State for Women and Equalities. They discussed dire humanitarian needs in Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan, and the important role the long-standing partnership between the United States and the United Kingdom can play in addressing these crises and a range of development challenges.

Administrator Power and Minister Dodds underscored the shared commitment of the United States and the United Kingdom to work together and find new areas of partnership, including on multilateral development bank reform and efforts to address lead poisoning.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman Meets with with Ukraine Minister of Finance Sergii Marchenko

Source: USAID

The below is attributable to Deputy Spokesperson Shejal Pulivarti:‎

Today, Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman met with Ukrainian Finance Minister Sergii Marchenko to reaffirm USAID’s commitment to helping Ukraine meet its urgent financing needs, including through the G7 loans announced this week.

Deputy Administrator Coleman and Minister Marchenko discussed the importance of continued reforms to improve Ukraine’s business climate, which are crucial for investment and long-term economic recovery. They also underscored their shared commitment to Ukraine’s transparency, customs reform, macroeconomic stability, and recovery efforts.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 9720, AI Incident Reporting and Security Enhancement Act

Source: US Congressional Budget Office

H.R. 9720 would require the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to establish common definitions and identify characteristics of security vulnerabilities of artificial intelligence (AI) that would make the National Vulnerability Database inappropriate for managing those vulnerabilities. The bill also would require NIST to support the development of standards and guidance for technical vulnerability management processes related to AI and to update the database and associated vulnerability management processes. Finally, H.R. 9720 would require NIST to work with interested parties to develop and then report to the Congress on a process to voluntarily collect, report, and track substantial AI security incidents.

Based on the cost of similar requirements, CBO expects that NIST will need three employees, at an average annual cost of $250,000 per person in 2025, to carry out the requirements of H.R. 9720. Accounting for anticipated inflation, CBO estimates that implementing the bill would cost $3 million over the 2025-2029 period. Any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Banking: Navigating Trump’s tariffs and social media key strategic priorities for retailers in 2025, says GlobalData

Source: GlobalData

Navigating Trump’s tariffs and social media key strategic priorities for retailers in 2025, says GlobalData

Posted in Retail

2025 will present significant challenges for retailers globally, as geopolitical issues and the disruptive force of AI continue, with the added challenge of navigating the impacts of the Trump administration, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

GlobalData’s latest report, “Strategic Intelligence: Top Themes in Retail and Apparel 2025,” reveals that international trade and social media will be among the major themes impacting the retail sector in 2025.

Sophie Mitchell, Retail Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Trump’s proposed tariffs and tougher import tax regulations will cause major issues for retailers, especially those who operate highly globalized supply chains, adding significant import costs that will ultimately be passed on to the consumer. Solutions to this, including diversifying or localizing supply chains, will not happen overnight and come with their own costs, such as the higher cost of labor, which could again be passed on to consumers through higher retail prices.

“Shein and Temu could be two of the biggest retailers to be hit by the measures, as for instance, Europe could also impose retaliatory tariffs to ensure it does not become the primary destination for Chinese goods as they are displaced from the US.”

Something Trump has immediately taken action on is negotiations with China over TikTok. Trump’s pause on the ban on TikTok in the US indicates that he intends to reach a deal with its Chinese owner. However, the brief ban and prior noise around its implications have highlighted how essential a social media strategy centered around short-form video content with shoppable links, particularly on TikTok, is to driving retailers’ sales.

GlobalData’s global survey of respondents in seven countries (US, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, China, and the UK) conducted in December 2023 found that 33.5% of consumers use TikTok (excluding China), making it the fourth most used social media app after Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, overtaking X/Twitter*.

Mitchell continues: “TikTok Shop provides a significant opportunity for retailers to convert usage and content consumption into sales, with consumers being able to discover and purchase products on one platform, whereas previously social content was primarily a brand awareness raising exercise.”

TikTok has been particularly instrumental for retailers as it has allowed for the growth of micro-influencers, larger influencers, user-generated content, and brand/ retailer-generated content all in one platform due to the way the algorithm works. Retailers can take a 360-degree strategic approach to targeting consumers on the platform, with a combination of paid ads, organic reviews, and brand campaigns, convincing them to buy a product that they may not even have to leave the app to purchase.

Mitchell concludes: “An effective social media strategy is essential for retailers in 2025, and should a permanent ban on TikTok come into effect in the US, retailers should pivot to other social media platforms that offer multi-pronged approaches to marketing and the ability to complete the shopping journey in-app, as TikTok’s efficacy has been proven.”

*GlobalData’s 2023/24 Global Survey was conducted in December 2023 with 1,000 consumers per country

MIL OSI Global Banks –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Defense Official Statement on AUKUS Pillar 2 and Exercise Maritime Big Play

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

The following statement can be attributed to Ms. Madeline Mortelmans who is currently performing the duties of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Strategy, Plans and Capabilities. Her office is lead for both pillars of AUKUS within the department and is in close partnership with all of the DOD stakeholders.

“Secretary Austin has said several times in the past that our alliances and partnerships are our greatest global strategic advantage. Specifically, AUKUS presents a unique opportunity for Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States to foster a more capable, more combined force of the future. And in so doing, we will strengthen deterrence in the Indo-Pacific.

Through AUKUS, we are working across the full spectrum of capability development, generating requirements, co-developing new systems, deepening industrial based collaboration and ultimately delivering advanced capabilities to our forces. AUKUS Pillar 1 focuses these co-development efforts on delivering an advanced nuclear power submarine capability through the optimal pathway.

Pillar 2 focuses on the development and delivery of emerging technology. AUKUS Pillar 2 is designed to harness the combined industrial and innovation bases of the tri-lateral partners to ensure that our forces are equipped with cutting edge interoperable military capabilities and prepared to face down aggression in whatever form it may take.

In Pillar 2, we’re building a more capable combined joint force for the future, working across the full spectrum of capability development and we’re already delivering. This year, we’re advancing our undersea warfare capabilities by expanding our ability to launch and recover uncrewed underwater systems from torpedo tubes on current classes of British and US submarines, that will increase the range and capability of our undersea forces.

We’re integrating the Stingray lightweight torpedo into the P-8A maritime patrol aircraft, which will support our forces in being more interchangeable while providing resilience to munitions stockpiles across AUKUS nations. At the same time, we’re also implementing a fundamental shift to more closely integrate our systems and break down barriers to collaboration at every stage and in every part of our systems.

We’ve welcomed collaboration with the International Joint Requirements Oversight Council or I-JROC, a critical collaborative forum to identify and validate joint and combined requirements. The I-JROC will ensure that we have prioritized combined and joint solutions from the very start and that the capabilities we develop under Pillar 2 address some of the most pressing challenges our forces face.

A cornerstone of AUKUS Pillar 2 remains the opportunity to leverage the best of our defense industrial bases in combined innovation communities. This year we executed the first office innovation challenge focused on electronic warfare. We announced the winners last month and our teams are working to develop a robust two-year plan to increase the collaboration between and among our innovation centers of excellence.

By the end of the year, we’ll have convened meetings with the Advanced Capabilities Industry Forum in each country. Engagements provide an opportunity for representatives across government and industry to exchange ideas and deepen industrial based collaboration.

This week we’re here in Jervis Bay to observe the Maritime Big Play, which is an important demonstration of AUKUS in action. The Maritime Big Play is a series of integrated trilateral experiments and exercises aimed at enhancing capability development, improving interoperability and increasing the sophistication and scale of autonomous systems in the maritime domain. These experiments address the need to expand the reach, capability and capacity of our forces in the maritime environment through the use of artificial intelligence and autonomous systems.

Over the past several weeks, we’ve been testing and refining the ability to jointly operate uncrewed maritime systems, to share and process maritime data from all three nations, and to provide real time maritime domain awareness to support decision making. The Maritime Big Play allows AUKUS partners to practice fielding and maintaining thousands of uncrewed systems, gaining valuable experience operating in coalitions to solve realistic operational problems such as improving undersea situational awareness.

Our work will inform AUKUS partners’ understanding of how crewed and uncrewed capabilities can be integrated to get an operational advantage, and where we can achieve cost savings and improved efficiencies in acquisition, maintenance and sustainment activities.

Maritime Big Play isn’t just a demonstration for demonstration’s sake. It’s our goal to transition cutting edge technologies into capabilities that give our forces decisive advantage as quickly as we can. This year, Japan joined the Maritime Big Play as an observer. We look forward to deepening their participation in the coming years. All of this together underpins a more strategic approach to ensure that AUKUS and like-minded partners can operate new autonomous uncrewed systems more effectively as a coalition force from the start.

This is only the first in our series of experiments and demonstrations. Over time, Maritime Big Play will grow and evolve to reflect the emerging technologies, new systems and new operational requirements. I want to emphasize that AUKUS is dynamic. It will grow, it will evolve as the world changes around us, and as we break down the old barriers to cooperation and inevitably discover new ones.

AUKUS is building a foundation for deep defense industrial cooperation and delivering advanced capabilities that can and will ensure our defense forces succeed in enhancing peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific alongside UK and Australia partners both now and in the years ahead. Thank you.”

MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: US, Australian Naval Forces Conduct Bilateral Operations

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

STRAIT OF MALACCA –

The U.S. Navy (USN) and Royal Australian Navy (RAN) conducted bilateral operations in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific in the Strait of Malacca, Oct. 20-23.

Participating ships included the USN Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105) and the RAN Anzac-class frigate HMAS Stuart (FFH 153). The two ships took part in exercise Malabar 2024 earlier in October.

“This exercise further builds on our existing interoperability and combined readiness we have with the Royal Australian Navy,” said Vice Adm. Fred Kacher, commander, U.S. 7th Fleet. “Every time we operate together, we strengthen our capabilities and shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.”

Over four days, the ships engaged in a formation sailing exercise, an air defense exercise, maritime communications training, personnel cross-decks and visit, board, search and seizure drills.

“Conducting a joint sail with USS Dewey has been of great value, with multiple different activities conducted between the ships, including personnel exchange, boarding practices, manoeuvring in close company, and warfare drills,” said Cmdr. Warren Bechly, commanding officer, HMAS Stuart. “Whether it is large scale exercises, or ships in transit between the same ports, working with our allies and partners is always a valuable opportunity to build closer ties and enhance interoperability.”

The U.S. Navy regularly operates alongside our allies in the Indo-Pacific region as a demonstration of our shared commitment to the rules-based international order.

Bilateral operations such as this one provide valuable opportunities to train, exercise and develop tactical interoperability across allied navies in the Indo-Pacific.

Dewey is forward-deployed and assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force.

U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Global financial community gathers for Sibos 2024 in Beijing

Source: China State Council Information Office

This photo shows the opening ceremony of the Swift International Banker’s Operation Seminar 2024 (Sibos 2024) in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 21, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

The Swift International Banker’s Operation Seminar 2024 (Sibos 2024) taking place for the first time in Beijing signifies that China is welcoming global financial institutions to participate in the development of the financial industry to contribute to its economic growth by offering professional services.

This is according to Nicole Zhou, Senior Partner at McKinsey & Company, who attended the event from Oct. 21-24 at the China National Convention Center in Beijing. Zhou said the scale of China’s banking institutions is already very large and they are seeking in the next step to become global financial institutions as they support Chinese firms’ overseas operations. “This process will require the professionalized development of the entire banking industry and a financial system that promotes globalization and interconnectivity.”

At around 6 p.m. on Tuesday, the convention center was still crowded, with its exhibition hall and aisles filled with people from the global financial community discussing business.

This is the first time Sibos has been held in the Chinese mainland since its inception in 1978. A total of 114 foreign-funded institutions and 19 Chinese-funded institutions participated in the event, including global financial institutions such as J.P. Morgan, Citibank, HSBC, Standard Chartered and Deutsche Bank, as well as financial institutions from emerging markets such as India, the United Arab Emirates and Africa.

“This is the third time that I attended a Sibos conference. In previous years, it was mostly held in North America and Europe, but this time it is held in Beijing, which not only reflects the rise of China and even Asia’s financial industry but also reflects China’s attitude of embracing the world,” said Zou Xiaonan, head of digital assets, UBS Group Treasury, who flew from London to Beijing for the meeting.

“DBS benefits from China’s financial liberalization and opening up in multiple ways. First, the financial liberalization and opening up had a significant positive effect on Chinese growth and Chinese integration with the rest of ASEAN, where DBS is active. DBS has sought to capitalize on these trends through our participation in the Cross-border Interbank Payment System, capturing more of the cross-border trade and financing opportunities of Chinese corporations,” said Soon Chong Lim, group head of Global Transaction services at Singapore-based DBS Bank.

According to Lim, his schedule in Beijing has been very busy. On Tuesday alone, he had already met several dozens of clients at the convention center. Because of the huge gathering, Lim said he couldn’t even book a meeting room and had to talk to clients standing.

A DBS staff member told Xinhua that DBS Bank took Sibos very seriously and started preparing for it six months ago. As part of its arrangements, the bank offered specially brewed Singaporean coffee and tea at the convention.

Bill Winters, group CEO of Standard Chartered Bank, who has visited China several times this year, said that China is constantly accelerating the pace of opening up in the financial sector. As the first newly established wholly foreign-owned securities company in China, Standard Chartered Securities China Limited officially commenced its business earlier this year, bringing new opportunities to the group’s business in China.

Alan Ho, Co-Senior Country Officer for China at J.P. Morgan, said that the pace of China’s financial market opening up has accelerated in recent years. For example, foreign ownership restrictions in local securities, funds and futures companies have been lifted and financial markets’ connectivity mechanisms have been maturing more quickly than expected. “Benefiting from China’s opening up policies, J.P. Morgan now fully owns multiple legal entities in the country, including a locally incorporated bank, a securities company, a futures company and an asset management venture.”

Apart from traditional financial institutions, fintech companies also benefit from China’s continued financial opening up. On Tuesday, Singapore-headquartered cross-border payments company Thunes launched a payment solution during the Sibos 2024 that aimed to facilitate the payment of foreign nationals in China. The solution will enable overseas e-wallets such as Kenya’s M-Pesa and Singapore’s Singtel Dash to make payments within China by scanning QR codes.

Thunes CEO Floris de Kort told Xinhua that overseas travelers in China can simply make payments with Thunes function embedded in their e-wallets.

In 2023, Thunes established a wholly-owned subsidiary in Beijing, which marked important progress in the opening up of the city’s financial sector. “With the continued opening up of the Chinese economy, the cross-border payment industry will also usher in greater opportunities with the increase of payment scenarios,” said de Kort.

Effie Xin, EY Greater China Financial Services Partner, said that the opening up of the financial sector will help Chinese financial institutions better learn from the advanced experience of global financial institutions. Meanwhile, the connectivity of financial markets can also help promote the status and influence of Chinese currency RMB in cross-border payments, trade and investment, and currency reserves.

Sibos is the annual conference, exhibition and networking event organized by Swift for the financial industry. Starting out as a banking operations seminar in 1978, it has grown into the premier business forum for the global financial community to debate and collaborate in the areas of payments, securities, cash management and trade.

Over 10,000 participants from more than 150 countries and regions have gathered for Sibos 2024, which covers a wide range of topics, including payments, digital assets, trade financing, artificial intelligence and sustainable finance.

MIL OSI China News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Cambodia, China-ASEAN Information Harbor sign MoU to boost digital infrastructure, economy

Source: China State Council Information Office

Cambodia and the China-ASEAN Information Harbor Co., Ltd. (CAIH) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to boost technological innovation, digital infrastructure, and digital economy, said a news release on Thursday.

The deal was inked in Phnom Penh on Wednesday between Cambodia’s Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation (MISTI) and the CAIH under the presence of MISTI’s Undersecretary of State Hul Seingheng.

The MoU marks a significant step for Cambodia towards enhancing technological innovation and connectivity in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the news release said.

“This agreement aims to leverage advanced digital infrastructure and cutting-edge technologies to promote economic development and improve quality of life across the region,” the news release said.

Seingheng said the partnership builds on years of collaboration, which gained momentum after a MISTI delegation visited the CAIH in June 2024 and that the visit laid the groundwork for this formalized agreement.

“This agreement is another milestone in our efforts to enhance digital cooperation and strengthen Cambodia’s science, technology, and innovation ecosystem,” he said.

“It aims to increase digital connectivity and the exchange of expertise that will benefit both Cambodia and the ASEAN region,” he added.

Leveraging CAIH’s skills in the digital economy, intelligent interconnection, and data interoperability, the MoU highlights key areas of collaboration, including advanced digital infrastructure, digital economy, and knowledge sharing.

“Both parties will focus on sectors such as healthcare and tourism, utilizing digital technologies to spur economic growth and elevate living standards,” the news release said.

Kong Mengke, deputy general manager of CAIH International, expressed enthusiasm for the MoU’s potential.

“To implement these areas of cooperation, we propose to prioritize the development of a digital government. The next step will be to create a smart governance platform,” he said.

“We strive to be a ‘super-connector’ of industries, resources, and customers, positioning ourselves as enablers of digital transformation and leaders of the Digital Silk Road,” he said.

According to the news release, the CAIH is a digital tech company approved by China’s State Council in 2016 in line with the Belt and Road Initiative.

Its mission is to build and operate the Digital Silk Road and Digital Guangxi, promoting closer ties between China and ASEAN and supporting the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, it said.

MIL OSI China News –

January 25, 2025

MIL-OSI Economics: RBI@90 Art Competition for Fine Art Students

Source: Reserve Bank of India

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) conducted an Art Competition, as part of the commemoration of its 90th year, for fine art students in India. 71 undergraduate fine arts students from 71 colleges in the country participated in the competition.

Eligible artworks focusing on themes associated with the Reserve Bank of India, received during the month of August and September 2024, were displayed and evaluated in an event organised by the Reserve Bank at its New Delhi Regional Office on October 22, 2024. Students and faculty members of participating colleges/ institutes from 25 states of India attended the event. The artworks, inspired by Indian art forms showcased the creative talents of undergraduate students at fine art institutes in the country.

A panel of judges from the art world evaluated the artworks. 15 artworks out of the submissions received were awarded and felicitated.

The event also included a panel discussion on evolution of Indian art, influence of social media on art, future of traditional painting forms with advent of digital tools and artificial intelligence, impact of globalisation, art fairs, biennales, etc.

(Puneet Pancholy)
Chief General Manager

Press Release: 2024-2025/1369

MIL OSI Economics –

January 25, 2025

MIL-OSI: QPR Software Plc: Interim Report January-September 2024

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

QPR SOFTWARE PLC STOCK EXCHANGE RELEASE 25 October 2024, AT 9.00 AM EET

QPR Software Plc Interim Report for January-September 2024: The growth in SaaS net sales supports positive development, with profitability improving already for the eighth consecutive quarter compared to the same period last year. The most significant achievement of the third quarter was the signing of a contract with a global luxury brand.

FINANCIAL DEVELOPMENT BRIEFLY

JULY-SEPTEMBER 2024

SaaS net sales increased by +15%
Software net sales decreased by -3%
Net sales was 1,409 thousand euros, down -22% (July-September 2023: 1,806) due to company’s discontinuation of consulting outside the core business.
EBITDA was 269 thousand euros (242), an increase of +11%
The operating profit was -6 thousand euros (-12), +6 thousand euros change compared to the previous period
Profit before taxes was -33 thousand euros (-37), +4 thousand euros change compared to the previous period
The result was -33 euros (-37), +4 thousand euros change compared to the previous period
Earnings per share was -0.002 euros (-0.002)
Cash flow from operations 34 thousand euros (-640), +674 thousand euros change compared to the comparison period

JANUARY-SEPTEMBER 2024

SaaS net sales increased by +15%
Software net sales increased by +4%
Net sales was 4,651 thousand euros, down -22% (January-September 2023: 5,951) due to company’s discontinuation of consulting outside the core business.
EBITDA was 745 thousand euros (213), a difference of +532 thousand euros from the comparison period
The operating profit was -39 thousand euros (-529), a difference +490 thousand euros from the comparison period
Profit before taxes was -107 thousand euros (-617), a difference +510 thousand euros from the comparison period
The result was -107 thousand euros (-617), a difference +510 thousand euros from the comparison period
Earnings/share was -0.006 euros (-0.038)
Cash flow from operations -226 thousand euros (20), a difference of -246 thousand euros from the comparison period

OUTLOOK FOR 2024

The company monitors the development of the world’s economic situation and geopolitical tensions. The slowly budding recovery of economic growth, falling interest rates and normalizing inflation will improve the financial position of customers, and investment decisions can be expected to accelerate towards the end of 2024.

Supported by the current contract base and the projected growth of SaaS (Software as a Service) net sales, QPR expects the growth of SaaS net sales to be double-digit and estimates that the entire software net sales will grow in 2024 (2023: 5,122 thousand euros).

The company expects the operating result to improve significantly in the financial year 2024. The operating result in 2023 was -813 thousand euros.

CEO REVIEW

In the third quarter, we continued to execute our strategy as planned, and the company’s turnaround is progressing steadily. We have achieved our eighth consecutive quarter of improved results compared to the same period last year, indicating positive development. However, growth this time was modest, as market recovery has been slower than anticipated. Strengthening customer relationships, expanding our partner network, and acquiring new clients continue to support long-term growth. The most significant achievement of the quarter was securing a contract with a global luxury brand, which selected QPR ProcessAnalyzer to optimize its business processes, solidifying our position as a leader in process mining.

SaaS revenue grew by 15% in July-September, while software revenue decreased by 3%, mainly due to the timing of deals. Overall revenue declined because of our decision to discontinue external consulting services in Finland at the end of 2023. Our positive EBITDA, totaling EUR 269,000, increased by 11% compared to the previous year. The company’s result was slightly negative, and the timing of individual deals continues to significantly impact quarterly outcomes. This quarter also saw one-off write-offs related to the relocation of our headquarters, which affected the results.

One of our most significant product development milestones was advancing our flagship product, QPR ProcessAnalyzer, into a native app on the Snowflake Marketplace. This development significantly changes how process mining software is bought and sold, offering our customers using Snowflake cloud services a fast and straightforward way to acquire software cost-effectively. Our goal is to have our product listed on the Snowflake Marketplace by the end of October.

At the core of our strategy is the development of our international partner network. In the first half of the year, we established several key partnerships in the United States, which have led to active sales efforts to attract new customers. We continue to seek new potential partners, and the EDGE 2024 Supply Chain Conference held in Nashville in September was an important part of this strategy.

The market situation in the Middle East also showed positive development in the third quarter. Our strong partner network and growing interest in our process mining solutions provide excellent opportunities for expanding our market share. Snowflake has acquired several customers in the region, which also presents us with new opportunities to expand in this market.

Our focus now turns to the final quarter of the year, where we plan to leverage our strengths and focus on securing deals effectively. Despite challenges in the business environment, we believe in our innovations and strategic partnerships that support the company’s long-term growth goals.

QPR appointed Taru Mäkinen as CFO in July, and under her leadership, our financial processes are being developed to support our growth strategy. Additionally, Antti Kivalo started as the company’s new Sales Director at the beginning of September.

I would like to extend my warmest thanks to our customers, partners, and investors for their trust. A special thank you also to all our employees for their hard work towards the success of our company.

Heikki Veijola

CEO

KEY FIGURES

EUR in thousands, unless otherwise indicated	July-Sept, 2024	July-Sept, 2023	Change, %	Jan-Sept, 2024	Jan-Sept, 2023	Change, %	Jan-Dec, 2023

Net sales	1,409	1,806	-22	4,651	5,951	-22	7,550
EBITDA	269	242	11	745	213	249	182
% of net sales	19.1	13.4		16.0	3.6		2.4
Operating result	-6	-12	55	-39	-529	93	-813
% of net sales	-0.4	-0.7		-0.8	-8.9		-10.8
Result before tax	-33	-37	11	-107	-617	83	-924
Result for the period	-33	-37	11	-107	-617	83	-924
% of net sales	-2.4	-2.1		-2.3	-10.4		-12.2

Earnings per share, EUR (basic and diluted)	-0.002	-0.002	11	-0.006	-0.038	84	-0.055
Equity per share, EUR	0.018	0.036	-48	0.019	0.036	-48	0.020

Cash flow from operating activities	34	-640	105	-226	20	-1,202	850
Cash and cash equivalents	99	181	-46	99	181	-45	885
Net borrowings	1,513	1,639	-8	1,513	1,639	-8	934
Gearing, %	451.3	257.2	75	451.3	257.2	75	268.3
Equity ratio, %	11.0	13.7	-20	11.0	13.7	-20	8.1
Return on equity, %	-38.6	-49.7	22	-41.8	-146.4	71	-221.5
Return on investment, %	-6.3	-11.6	23	-9.0	-35.9	75	-42.0

REPORTING AND BUSINESS OPERATIONS

QPR Software Plc is a pioneer in business process optimization solutions and has positioned itself as a leading player in Digital Twin of an Organization (DTO) technology and one of the most advanced process mining software companies in the world.

QPR innovates, develops, and delivers software for analyzing, monitoring and modeling the operations of organizations. The company also offers consulting services to ensure that customers get full value from the software and associated methods.

QPR Software reports one business segment, which is Organizational Development of organizations. In addition to this, the Company reports revenue from products and services as follows: Software licenses, Renewable software licenses, Software maintenance services, Cloud services, and Consulting.

The company’s reported recurring revenues consist of SaaS net sales, maintenance services, as well as revenue from renewable licenses. Licenses are sold to customers for perpetual use or for an agreed, limited period. The revenue from SaaS and maintenance services is recorded monthly as recurring revenue over the contract period.

Renewable software licenses are sold to customers as a user right with an indefinite-term contract. These contracts are automatically renewed at the end of the agreed period, usually one year, unless the agreement is terminated within the notice. Renewable license revenue is recognized at one point in time, in the beginning of the invoicing period, yet at the earliest on the delivery.

The geographical areas reported are Finland, the rest of Europe (including Turkey), and the rest of the world. Net sales are reported according to the location of the customer’s headquarters. Until 2023, the company provided consulting services, predominantly to public administration, which were unrelated to its core business. In the end of 2023, the company discontinued these activities. In the future, the company will prioritize offering consulting services tailored to the software it develops, aiming to deliver maximum added value to its customers.

The company began reporting the production costs of the cloud platform within the materials and services expense category starting from 2024. The figures for the comparative period will be presented at the end of this interim report’s table section, according to both reported and 2024 cost groupings.

NET SALES DEVELOPMENT

NET SALES BY PRODUCT GROUP

EUR in thousands	July-Sept, 2024	July-Sept, 2023	Change, %	Jan-Sept, 2024	Jan-Sept, 2023	Change, %	Jan-Dec, 2023

Software licenses	85	174	-51	406	383	6	485
Renewable software licenses	43	78	-45	334	453	-26	504
Software maintenance services	430	428	0	1,268	1,272	0	1,720
SaaS	673	585	15	2,020	1,754	15	2,371
Consulting	179	541	-67	623	2,089	-70	2,469
Total	1,409	1,806	-22	4,651	5,951	-22	7,550

NET SALES BY GEOGRAPHIC AREA

EUR in thousands	July-Sept, 2024	July-Sept, 2023	Change, %	Jan-Sept, 2024	Jan-Sept, 2023	Change, %	Jan-Dec, 2023

Finland	555	793	-30	1,881	2,799	-33	3,499
Europe incl. Turkey	623	702	-11	2,026	2,398	-16	3,128
Rest of the world	232	310	-25	745	754	-1	923
Total	1,409	1,806	-22	4,651	5,951	-22	7,550

JULY-SEPTEMBER 2024

The net sales for July to September was 1,409 thousand euros (1,806), and it decreased by 22% compared to the same period last year. The group discontinued consulting services outside our core business in Finland at the end of 2023. The proportion of recurring revenue in the total revenue increased from 56 percent to 79 percent.

SaaS net sales, which is at the core of our strategy, grew by 15%, and software net sales decreased by 3% during July-September.

The software license net sales was 85 thousand euros (174), representing a 51% decrease. The decline was due to larger individual new license deals in the comparison period, which exceeded the new license deals reported in the current period. Expansions with existing customers partially offset the lower new customer license sales. The net sales mainly consisted of additional sales through partner transactions and to existing and new customers, additional sales to existing direct customers, as well as the expansion of the partner network, which brought new commercial opportunities and customer relationships.

The net sales from renewable software licenses was 43 thousand euros (78), a decrease of 45%. This decline was primarily due to the expiration of individual customer contracts and the earlier renewal timing, partially offset by new customer acquisitions and price increases made in response to inflationary pressures.

The net sales from software maintenance services amounted to 430 thousand euros (428). The net sales was positively impacted by Middle Eastern customers transitioning to a software maintenance model, increased maintenance revenue from new license acquisitions, and winning back lost customers. Additionally, price increases to counter inflationary pressures and favorable exchange rate effects contributed to the net sales growth. However, the growth was offset by customer churn and a decline in revenue from certain individual customers.

SaaS net sales grew by 15% and amounted to 673 thousand (585). The growth was primarily driven by new customer acquisitions, the expansion of existing customer relationships, and price increases to counter inflationary pressures. On the other hand, customer churn and a decrease in revenue from individual clients had a negative impact on the overall SaaS revenue development.

Net sales from consulting was 179 thousand euros (541), a 67% decrease due to the company’s discontinuation of consulting services outside its core business in Finland. During the comparison period, the company had a large customer project in Europe, but no similar project occurred in this reporting period.

The Group’s net sales was 39 % (44) from Finland, 44% (39) from the rest of Europe (including Turkey) and 17 % (11) from the rest of the world.

JANUARY-SEPTEMBER 2024

The net sales January-September was 4,651 thousand euros (5,951), and it decreased by 22 % compared to the same period last year. This decline is due to the company’s decision to discontinue non-core consulting services in Finland at the end of 2023. The proportion of recurring revenue of the total revenue increased from 51 percent to 71 percent.

Our SaaS net sales, which is at the core of our strategy, grew by 15%, and software net sales grew by 4% in the January-September period. The proportion of software net sales in the total net sales grew from 65 percent to 87 percent.

The net sales from software licenses was 406 thousand euros (383) and it grew by 6%. The growth was primarily driven by an increase in partner sales volume, particularly among customers in the Middle East, as well as the expansion with a global pharmaceutical company in accordance with a previous agreement. Additionally, the company achieved broader success in partner sales across multiple geographical regions.

The net sales from renewable software licenses amounted to 334 thousand euros (453), a decrease of 26%. The decline was driven by several factors, including customer churn, individual customers transitioning to a SaaS service model, and negative currency exchange effects. These factors were partially offset by new customer acquisitions and price increases implemented to counter inflationary pressure.

The net sales from software maintenance services amounted to 1,268 thousand euros (1,272). The decline in net sales was negatively impacted by customer churn, a decrease in revenue from individual customers, and, to a lesser extent, the transition of existing customers to the SaaS service model. The decline was partially offset by the expansion of cooperation with existing customers, the inclusion of Middle Eastern customers’ projects under maintenance services, new customer contracts, and the previously agreed expansion with a global pharmaceutical company. Additionally, price increases to counter inflationary pressures and favorable currency exchange rate effects contributed to net sales growth.

SaaS net sales grew by 15% to 2,020 thousand euros (1,754). The growth was primarily driven by the expansion of existing customer relationships and successes in acquiring new customers. The shift of customers from licenses to the SaaS service model and, to some extent, price increases due to inflationary pressures also contributed to the growth. On the other hand, fluctuations in exchange rates and customer churn had a negative impact on the development of SaaS net sales.

Consulting revenue was 623 thousand euros (2,089), a decrease of 70%, following the company’s discontinuation of consulting services outside its core business in Finland. Additionally, the company recognized revenue from fixed-price projects in the Middle East according to their to their completion status during the first half of 2023. These projects were completed in the second quarter of the same year. In the comparison period, the company had a large customer project in Europe, but there was no similar project during this reporting period.

The Group’s net sales was 40% (49) from Finland, 44% (40) from the rest of Europe (including Turkey) and 16 % (11) from the rest of the world.

FINANCIAL DEVELOPMENT

JULY-SEPTEMBER 2024

The group’s EBITDA for July-September was 269 thousand euros (242), an improvement of 27 thousand euros compared to the previous year. The operating profit was -6 thousand euros (-12), an increase of 6 thousand euros compared to the reference period. The season’s result was -33 thousand euros (-37).

The active measures implemented by the company in 2023 to improve cost structure and enhance business profitability are already partially visible in the first half of 2024 and to be fully realized by the third quarter.

The Group’s variable costs amounted to 210 thousand euros (240). The decrease in costs was mainly due to lower partner commissions, resulting from lower software license sales through partners compared to the reference period.

The company’s fixed expenses amounted to 931 thousand euros (1,324), a decrease of 30% compared to the same period last year. This decrease was due to savings programs implemented in the second and final quarters of 2023, as well as reduced personnel expenses resulting from change negotiations. The full impact of the cost-saving measures materialized starting from the third quarter of 2024. The effect of these savings was partially offset by lower product development capitalizations, investments in reorganizing the company’s operational activities, and a one-time write-off of 24 thousand euros related to the company’s headquarters relocation.

Earnings per share were -0.002 euros (-0.002) per share.

JANUARY-SEPTEMBER 2024

The Group’s EBITDA for January–September was 745 thousand euros (213), an increase of 532 thousand euros compared to the previous year. The operating result was -39 thousand euros (-529), showing an improvement of 490 thousand euros compared to the same period last year. The result for the period was -107 thousand euros, which is a significant improvement from the previous year (-612).

The active measures implemented by the company in 2023 to improve cost structure and develop business profitability are already partially visible in the first quarter of 2024 and fully realized by the third quarter.

The Group’s variable costs amounted to 693 thousand euros (1,013). The decrease in expenses was primarily due to the completion of challenging fixed-price software delivery projects in the Middle East during the second quarter of 2023. This completion significantly reduced the need for external services, further lowering costs.

The company’s fixed expenses amounted to 3,214 thousand euros (4,726 thousand), a decrease of 32% compared to the same period last year. This decrease was driven by cost-saving programs implemented in the second and final quarters of 2023, as well as lower personnel expenses resulting from the outcomes of change negotiations. The full impact of the cost-saving measures realized starting from the third quarter of 2024. The effect of these savings was partially offset by lower R&D capitalizations and investments required for the reorganization of the company’s operational activities.

Earnings per share were EUR -0.006 (-0.038) per share.

FINANCE AND INVESTMENTS

The cash flow from operations during the review period amounted to -226 thousand euros (20). The main reason for this change compared to the comparable period was successful collection in the last quarter of 2023, particularly regarding the advanced license payments for 2024. A larger portion of the prepayments was collected in the final quarter of 2023, leading in lower cash flow from annual licenses in the first quarter of 2024. Annual billing is mostly concentrated around the end of the year, making it seasonal.

The change in working capital was affected by higher sales commissions paid to the company’s personnel for 2023, as well as holiday compensation for employees who left due to the change negotiations. The negative cash flow was also due to the fact that the largest new deals occurred in a market where payment behavior is slow.

The positive cash flow from operations in the third quarter was driven by successful receivables collection and lower costs. Compared to the same period last year, a significant reduction in expenses is a key reason for the clear improvement in operational cash flow. During the comparison period, the company conducted a directed share issue, resulting in significantly higher cash flow from financing activities.

Net financial expenses amounted to 19 thousand euros (30), including exchange losses of 1 thousand euros (4).

Investments totaled 357 thousand euros (511), and those were mainly research and development investments.

The company’s financing net cash flow for the period January to September was -318 thousand euros (656). The negative net cash flow was primarily due to the company reducing its loan by 500 thousand euros and having a credit limit in use. Additionally, during the comparison period, the company raised 760 thousand euros through a directed share issue.

The group’s financial situation is fair. At the end of the review period, the group’s cash and cash equivalents were 99 thousand euros (181). Short-term receivables were 1,290 thousand (1,468).

Euro-denominated receivables accounted for 68%, and 68% of invoices had not yet matured. Of the total amount of short-term receivables, the share of 1-30 days overdue receivables was 16%, 30-60 days 11% and more than 60 days 5%.

The group has a credit limit of 500,000 euros available.

At the end of the review period, the group had a bank loan of EUR 1,000 thousand, of which 500 thousand euros was long-term. In accordance with the original financing agreement, the first installment of EUR 0.5 million was due on January 31, 2024. After this, installments of EUR 0.5 million will mature annually in January 2025 and 2026. The covenants related to the loan are based on the company’s EBITDA and equity ratio. The EBITDA of the covenants is tested every six months, and the equity ratio is tested annually according to the situation on the last day of the year. The EBITDA exceeded the agreed covenant limit for the first half of the year.

The company’s free cash flow, including operating and investment cash flows, and office lease costs totaled -37 thousand euros (-735) in the third quarter. The significant improvement in free cash flow is due to both lower operating expenses and enhanced receivables collection. From January to September, free cash flow was -486 thousand euros (-595). The change was influenced by shifts in the timing of operating cash flows, which were mitigated by a significant decrease in investment cash flows and lower paid office lease costs.

The equity ratio was 11%, lower than the comparison period (14%) due to a loss of -307 thousand euros in the final quarter of 2023 and a -107 thousand euros loss for the reporting period, January to September. Additionally, the new lease agreement signed in June 2024 negatively impacts the company’s equity ratio, as the IFRS 16 interest effect increases the lease liability by approximately 100 thousand euros.

PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

QPR has positioned itself as a leading player in Digital Twin of an Organization (DTO) technology. The company innovates and develops software products that analyze, measure, and model the operations of organizations. The Company develops the following software products: QPR ProcessAnalyzer, QPR EnterpriseArchitect, QPR ProcessDesigner, and QPR Metrics.

In the third quarter of the year, product development expenses amounted to 183 thousand euros (248), and 69 thousand euros (80) of development costs were capitalized on the balance sheet. Product development depreciation was recorded at 228 thousand euros (220). The amortization period for capitalized development costs is four years.

PERSONNEL

At the end of the review period, the group employed 29 people (52). The average number of personnel in April-June was 28 (60).

The average age of the personnel is 45 (47) years. Women account for 23% (23) of employees, and men for 77% (76). Of all personnel, 21% (16) work in sales and marketing, 32% (31) in consulting and customer care, 40% (42) in product development, and 7% (11) in administration.

Personnel expenses were 2,499 thousand euros (4,085), of which the share of salaries and bonuses was 2,127 thousand euros (3,406).

For incentive purposes, the company has a bonus program covering the entire personnel. The top management’s short-term remuneration consists of monetary salary, fringe benefits and a possible annual bonus, mainly determined by the net sales development of the group and profit units. In addition, the company has a stock option program for key personnel.

SHARES AND SHAREHOLDER

Trading of shares	Jan-Sept, 2024	Jan-Sept, 2023	Change, %	Jan-Dec, 2023

Shares traded, pcs	3,407,075	1,729,586	97	3,538,455
Volume, EUR	1,685,250	898,702	88	1,585,931
% of shares	19.0	9.7	96	19.8
Average trading price, EUR	0.49	0.52	-5	0.45
Average trading value per day, EUR	8,917	4,755	88	6,318
Treasury shares acquired during the year, pcs	0	0	0	0
Shares and market capitalization	Sept 30, 2024	Sept 30, 2023	Change, %	Dec 31, 2023

Total number of shares, pcs	18,175,192	18,175,192	0	18,175,192
Treasury shares, pcs	256,849	339,471	-24	339,471
Book counter value, EUR	0.11	0.11	–	0.11
Outstanding shares, pcs	17,918,343	17,835,721	0	17,835,721
Number of shareholders	2,117	1,863	14	1,943
Closing price, EUR	0.60	0.39	54	0.33
Market capitalization, EUR	10,751,006	6,938,095	55	5,957,131
Book counter value of all treasury shares, EUR	28,253	37,342	-24	37,342
Total purchase value of all treasury shares, EUR	244,349	347,552	-30	347,552
Treasury shares, % of all shares	1.4	1.9	-26	1.9

GOVERNANCE

The Annual General Meeting of QPR Software Plc was held on May 15, 2024, in Helsinki. The General Meeting adopted the Company’s financial statements for the financial year 2023 and discharged the members of the Board of Directors and the CEO from liability. The General Meeting resolved that no dividend be paid based on the balance sheet adopted for the financial year ended on December 31, 2023, and adopted the Company’s Remuneration Report and Remuneration Policy. Further, the General Meeting resolved to authorize the Board of Directors to decide on share issues and on the issue of other special rights entitling to shares as well as on the acquisition of own shares.

Annual accounts and the use of the profit shown on the balance sheet

The General Meeting adopted the Company’s financial statements and discharged the members of the Board of Directors and the CEO from liability for the financial period January 1 – December 31, 2023. The General Meeting resolved that no dividend be paid based on the balance sheet adopted for the financial year ended on December 31, 2023.

Remuneration of the members of the Board of Directors and the Auditor

The General Meeting resolved that the Chairman of the Board of Directors be paid EUR 45,000 per year and the other members of the Board of Directors EUR 25,000 per year. Approximately 40 percent of the remuneration will be paid in shares and 60 percent in cash. The shares will be granted as soon as possible after the Annual General Meeting and if the insider regulations allow it. The members of the Board of Directors will also be reimbursed for travel and other expenses incurred while they are managing the Company’s affairs.

The remuneration of the Auditor shall be paid according to the reasonable invoice.

Board of Directors and Auditor

The General Meeting confirmed that the number of Board members is four (4). Pertti Ervi was re-elected as the Chairman of the Board of Directors and Antti Koskela and Jukka Tapaninen were re-elected as members of the Board of Directors. Linda von Schantz was elected as a new member of the Board of Directors.

Authorised Public Accountants KPMG Oy Ab was re-elected as the Company’s auditor. KPMG Oy Ab has announced that Petri Kettunen, Authorized Public Accountant, will act as the principal auditor.

Authorization of the Board of Directors to decide on share issues and on the issue of other special rights entitling to shares

The General Meeting resolved to authorize the Board of Directors to decide on issuances of new shares and conveyances of the own shares held by the Company (share issue) either in one or more instalments. The share issues can be carried out against payment or without consideration on terms to be determined by the Board of Directors. The authorization also includes the right to issue special rights referred to in Chapter 10, Section 1 of the Finnish Companies Act, which entitle to the Company’s new shares or own shares held by the Company against consideration. Based on the authorization, the maximum number of new shares that may be issued and own shares held by the Company that may be conveyed in share issues or on the basis of special rights is 6,361,317 shares. The authorization includes the right to deviate from the shareholders’ pre-emptive subscription right. The authorization is in force until the next Annual General Meeting.

Authorization of the Board of Directors to decide the acquisition of own shares

The General Meeting resolved to authorize the Board of Directors to decide on the acquisition of the Company’s own shares. Based on the authorization, an aggregate maximum amount of 500,000 own shares may be acquired, either in one or more instalments. The authorization includes the right to acquire own shares otherwise than in proportion to the existing shareholdings of the Company’s shareholders, using the Company’s non-restricted shareholders’ equity. The authorization is in force until the next Annual General Meeting.

SHORT-TERM RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES

Internal control and risk management at QPR Software aim to ensure that the Company operates efficiently and effectively, distributes reliable information, complies with regulations and operational principles, reaches its strategic goals, reacts to changes in the market and operational environment, and that business continuity is secured considering the financial position.

The Company has identified the following three groups of risks related to its operations: risks related to business operations (country, customer, personnel, legal), risks related to information and products (QPR products, IPR, data privacy, and security), and risks related to financing and liquidity (foreign currency, short-term cash flow).

The Company has an insurance policy covering property, operational, and liability risks. Financial risks include reasonable credit risk concerning individual business partners, which is characteristic of any international business. QPR seeks to limit this credit risk by continuously monitoring standard payment terms, receivables, and credit limits.

Approximately 68% of the Group’s trade receivables were in euros at the end of the quarter (79%). At the end of the quarter, the Company had not hedged its non-euro trade receivables.

EVENTS AFTER THE REVIEW PERIOD

No events after the review period.

QPR SOFTWARE PLC

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

For further information:

Heikki Veijola

Chief Executive Officer

QPR Software Plc

Tel. +358 40 922 6029

QPR Software in Brief

QPR Software (Nasdaq Helsinki) is a leading player in the Digital Twin of an Organization (DTO) use case and one of the most advanced process mining software companies in the world. The company innovates, develops, and delivers software for analyzing, monitoring, and modeling organizational operations. Additionally, QPR provides consulting services to ensure its customers derive full benefits from the software and associated methodologies.

www.qpr.com

DISTRIBUTION

Nasdaq Helsinki

Key medias

www.qpr.com

INTERIM REPORT JANUARY-SEPTEMBER

QPR Software’s Board of Directors has approved this interim report for January 1–September 30, 2024, to be published.

The financial figures for the full fiscal year 2023 presented in the interim report have been audited. The interim report financial figures are unaudited.

CONSOLIDATED COMPREHENSIVE INCOME STATEMENT

EUR in thousands, unless otherwise indicated	July-Sept, 2024	July-Sept, 2023	Change, %	Jan-Sept, 2024	Jan-Sept, 2023	Change, %	Jan-Dec, 2023

Net sales	1,409	1,806	-22	4,651	5,951	-22	7,550
Other operating income	–	–	–	–	1	–	1

Materials and services	210	240	-13	693	1,013	-32	896
Employee benefit expenses	658	1,056	-38	2,499	4,085	-39	5,287
Other operating expenses	273	268	2	714	640	12	1,186
EBITDA	269	242	11	745	213	249	182

Depreciation and amortization	274	254	8	784	743	6	995
Operating result	-6	-12	55	-39	-530	93	-813

Financial income and expenses	-28	-25	-12	-68	-87	22	-111
Result before tax	-33	-37	11	-107	-617	83	-924

Income taxes	–	–	–	0	–	0	–
Result for the period	-33	-37	11	-107	-617	83	-924


Earnings per share, EUR (basic and diluted)	-0.002	-0.002	11	-0.006	-0.038	84	-0.055

Consolidated statement of comprehensive income:
Result for the period	-33	-37	11	-107	-617	83	-924
Exchange differences on translating foreign operations	3	–	–	2	1	100	1
Total comprehensive income	-30	-37	19	-105	-616	83	-925

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

EUR in thousands	Sept 30, 2024	Sept 30, 2023	Change, %	Dec 31, 2023

Assets

Non-current assets:
Intangible assets	1,788	2,357	-24	2,245
Goodwill	358	358	0	358
Tangible assets	30	95	-69	81
Right-of-use assets	393	320	23	318
Other non-current assets	277	277	0	277
Total non-current assets	2,847	3,407	-16	3,279

Current assets:
Trade and other receivables	1,782	1,896	-6	1,706
Cash and cash equivalents	100	181	-45	884
Total current assets	1,881	2,077	-9	2,590

Total assets	4,728	5,484	-14	5,869

Equity and liabilities

Equity:
Share capital	80	80	0	80
Other funds	21	21	1	21
Treasury shares	-244	-348	-30	-348
Translation differences	-68	-67	-1	-67
Invested non-restricted equity fund	4,925	4,925	0	4,925
Retained earnings	-4,379	-3,974	-10	-4,263
Equity attributable to shareholders of the parent company	335	637	-47	348
Total equity	335	637	-47	348

Non-current liabilities:
Interest-bearing liabilities	500	1,000	-50	1,000
Interest-bearing lease liabilities	386	209	85	192
Total non-current liabilities	886	1,209	-27	1,192

Current liabilities:
Provisions	–	–	–	–
Interest-bearing liabilities	697	500	39	500
Interest-bearing lease liabilities	29	110	-73	126
Advances received	1,169	841	39	1,558
Accrued expenses and prepaid income	1,102	1,496	-26	1,539
Trade and other payables	511	690	-26	607
Total current liabilities	3,507	3,638	-4	4,329

Total liabilities	4,393	4,847	-9	5,521

Total equity and liabilities	4,728	5,484	-14	5,869

CONSOLIDATED CONDENCED CASH FLOW STATEMENT

EUR in thousands	July-Sept, 2024	July-Sept, 2023	Change, %	Jan-Sept, 2024	Jan-Sept, 2023	Change, %	Jan-Dec, 2023

Cash flow from operating activities:
Result for the period	-33	-37	10	-107	-555	81	-924
Adjustments to the result	381	264	44	962	745	29	1,078
Working capital changes	-282	-791	64	-1,001	-54	-1,755	821
Interest and other financial expenses paid	-32	-74	-57	-79	-104	-24	-107
Income taxes paid	–	-2	–	–	-11	–	-19
Net cash from operating activities	34	-640	105	-226	20	-1,228	849

Cash flow from investing activities:
Purchases of tangible and intangible assets	-68	-80	-15	-246	-512	-52	-620
Proceeds from sales of tangible and intangible assets	6	–	–	6	–	–	–
Net cash used in investing activities	-62	-80	22	-240	-512	53	-620

Cash flow from financing activities:
Proceeds from short term borrowings	102	–	–	1,197	1,500	-20	1,500
Repayments of short term borrowings	–	–	–	-1,500	-1,500	0	-1,500
Payment of lease liabilities	-3	-15	-81	-15	-103	-86	-121
Share issue net	–	760	–	–	760	–	760
Net cash used in financing activities	99	745	-87	-318	656	-149	639

Net change in cash and cash equivalents	70	26	-169	-784	164	578	868
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period	31	156	-80	884	17	5,100	17
Effects of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	-2	–	–	-1	–	–	–
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period	99	181	-46	99	181	-45	884

*Including non-interest bearing short term liabilities related to cash flow for investment

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

EUR in thousands	Share capital	Other funds	Translation differences	Treasury shares	Invested non- restricted equity fund	Retained earnings	Total
Equity Jan 1, 2023	1,359	21	-66	-406	2,943	-3,364	487
Stock option scheme						36	36
Reduction of share capital	-1,279				1,279		0
Disposal of own shares				58		-10	48
Share issue, net					703		703
Comprehensive income			-1			-924	-925
Equity Dec 31, 2023	80	21	-67	-348	4,925	-4,263	348
Stock option scheme						46	46
Reduction of share capital							0
Disposal of own shares				103		-55	48
Share issue, net							0
Comprehensive income			-2			-107	-109
Equity Sept 30, 2024	80	21	-68	-244	4,925	-4,379	335

NOTES TO INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES

This report complies with the requirements of IAS 34” Interim Financial Reporting”.

The interim report does not contain full notes and other information presented in the financial statements, and therefore the interim report should be read in conjunction with the Financial Statements Bulletin published for 2023.

In preparing the interim report, the same accounting principles have been followed as in the 2023 annual financial statements, except for new standards and standard amendments that came into effect starting January 1, 2024. The new standards and standard amendments had no significant impact on QPR Software’s consolidated financial statements.

Considering the company’s financial position, this financial statement has been prepared on a going concern basis. The company entered into a refinancing agreement in January 2023.

In preparation of the consolidated financial report, company’s management is required to make estimates and assumptions regarding the future and to consider the appropriate application of accounting principles, which means that actual results may differ from those estimated.

All amounts presented in this report are consolidated figures, unless otherwise noted. The amounts presented in the report are rounded, so the sum of individual figures may differ from the sum reported.

INTANGIBLE AND TANGIBLE ASSETS

EUR in thousands	Jan-Sept, 2024	Jan-Sept, 2023	Jan-Dec, 2023
Increase in intangible assets:
Acquisition cost Jan 1	14,836	14,217	14,217
Increase	246	512	619
Acquisition cost at the end of the period	15,082	14,729	14,836
Increase in tangible assets:
Acquisition cost Jan 1	2,816	2,816	2,816
Increase	111	–	–
Acquisition cost at the end of the period	2,927	2,816	2,816

CHANGES IN INTEREST-BEARING LIABILITIES

EUR in thousands	Jan-Sept, 2024	Jan-Sept, 2023	Jan-Dec, 2023

Interest-bearing liabilities Jan 1	1,818	2,279	2,279
Proceeds from borrowings	1,197	1,500	1,500
IFRS 16 – change in lease liability	97	-335	-319
Repayments	1,500	1,623	1,641
Acquisition cost at Sept 30	1,612	1,820	1,818

PLEDGES AND COMMITMENTS

EUR in thousands	Sept 30, 2024	Sept 30, 2023	Change, %	Dec 31, 2023

Business mortgages (held by the Company)	2,382	2,381	0	2,382

Minimum lease payments based on lease agreements:
Maturing in less than one year	30	30	-1	30
Maturing in 1-5 years	3	34	-90	27
Total	34	65	-48	57

Total pledges and commitments	2,416	2,445	-1	2,439

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT BY QUARTER (2023 RESTATED)

EUR in thousands	July-Sept, 2024	April-June, 2024	Jan-Mar, 2024	Oct-Dec, 2023	July-Sept, 2023

Net sales	1,409	1,473	1,769	1,599	1,806
Other operating income	–	–	–	–	–

Materials and services	210	223	260	229	240
Employee benefit expenses	658	820	1,021	1,202	1,056
Other operating expenses	273	249	193	199	268
EBITDA	269	181	295	-31	242

Depreciation and amortization	274	247	263	252	254
Operating result	-6	-66	32	-283	-12

Financial income and expenses	-28	-21	-20	-24	-25
Result before tax	-33	-87	13	-307	-37

Income taxes	–	–	–	–	–
Result for the period	-33	-87	13	-307	-37

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT BY QUARTER (2023 AS PUBLISHED)

EUR in thousands	July-Sept, 2024	April-June, 2024	Jan-Mar, 2024	Oct-Dec, 2023	July-Sept, 2023

Net sales	1,409	1,473	1,769	1,599	1,806
Other operating income	–	–		–	–

Materials and services	210	223	260	134	147
Employee benefit expenses	658	820	1,021	1,202	1,056
Other operating expenses	273	249	193	294	361
EBITDA	269	181	295	-31	242

Depreciation and amortization	274	247	263	252	254
Operating result	-6	-66	32	-283	-12

Financial income and expenses	-28	-21	-20	-24	-25
Result before tax	-33	-87	13	-307	-37

Income taxes	–	–	–	–	–
Result for the period	-33	-87	13	-307	-37

GROUP KEY FIGURES

EUR in thousands, unless otherwise indicated	Jan-Sept or Sept 30, 2024	Jan-Sept or Sept 30, 2023	Jan-Dec or Dec 31, 2023

Net sales	4,651	5,951	7,550
Net sales growth, %	-21.8	4.8	-3.5
EBITDA	745	213	182
% of net sales	16.0	3.6	2.4
Operating result	-39	-530	-813
% of net sales	-0.8	-8.9	-10.8
Result before tax	-107	-617	-924
% of net sales	-2.3	-10.4	-12.2
Result for the period	-107	-617	-924
% of net sales	-2.3	-10.4	-12.2

Return on equity (per annum), %	-41.8	-146.4	-221.5
Return on investment (per annum), %	-9.0	-35.9	-42.0
Cash and cash equivalents	99	181	885
Net borrowings	1,513	1,639	934
Equity	335	637	348
Gearing, %	451	257	268
Equity ratio, %	11.0	13.7	8.1
Total balance sheet	4,728	5,484	5,869

Investments in non-current assets	357	511	637
% of net sales	7.7	8.6	8.4
Product development expenses	740	1,113	1,427
% of net sales	15.9	18.7	18.9

Average number of personnel	39	60	57
Personnel at the beginning of period	49	85	85
Personnel at the end of period	30	52	49

Earnings per share, EUR (basic and diluted)	-0.006	-0.038	-0.055
Equity per share, EUR	0.019	0.036	0.020

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025

MIL-OSI: Digitalist Group Plc’s Business Review, 1 January – 30 September 2024
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Digitalist Group Plc Stock Exchange Release 25.10.2024 at 9:00

Digitalist Group Plc’s Business Review, 1 January – 30 September 2024

SUMMARY

July–September 2024 (comparable figures for 2023 in parentheses):
- Turnover: EUR 3.6 million (EUR 3.6 million), decrease: -0.8%.
- EBITDA: EUR -0.2 million (EUR 0.4 million*), -5.0% of turnover (12.1%).
- EBIT: EUR -0.3 million (EUR 0.2 million*), -8.7% of turnover (6.6%).
- Net income: EUR -1.5 million (EUR -0.5 million*), -40.8% of turnover (-13.2%).
- Earnings per share: EUR -0.00 (EUR -0.00).
- Earnings per share (diluted): EUR -0.00 (EUR -0.00).
*) EBIT, EBITDA and net income of the comparison period were impacted by a booked gain of EUR 0.6 million from the FutureLab Share transaction.

January–September 2024 (comparable figures for 2023 in parentheses):
- Turnover: EUR 11.5 million (EUR 12.5 million), decrease: -8.4%.
- EBITDA: EUR -1.3 million (EUR -0.5 million*), -11.5% of turnover (-3.9%).
- EBIT: EUR -1.7 million (EUR -1.1 million*), -14.4% of turnover (-8.8%).
- Net income: EUR -4.0 million (EUR -2.5 million*), -35.0% of turnover (-19.7%).
- Earnings per share: EUR -0.01 (EUR -0.00).
- Earnings per share (diluted): EUR -0.00 (EUR -0.00).
- Number of employees at the end of the review period: 126 (138), decrease of -9%.
*) EBIT, EBITDA and net income of the period were impacted by a booked gain of EUR 0.6 million from the FutureLab Share transaction.

CEO’s review

The third quarter of 2024 has been one step towards a profitable business for Digitalist Group. While no major events impacted this quarter, we are seeing slowly improving market conditions in Sweden. However, the weak Finnish economy continues to affect our business operations in the region.

Our revenues for the quarter remained consistent with the same period last year, totaling EUR 3.6 million. EBITDA for the third quarter of 2024 was EUR -0.2 million, compared to EUR 0.4 million in the same period last year, which included a EUR 0.6 million gain from the FutureLab Share transaction. This underscores the need for ongoing efforts in operational efficiency and cost management.

A significant highlight of the quarter was the launch of our first AI offering, Digitalist Private AI Hub, in September. This platform enables companies to leverage the strengths of generative AI without compromising on data security and GDPR compliance. We believe this innovative solution positions us well to meet the growing demand for secure AI applications in the enterprise as well as in the public sector. The new offering has already brought us clients like Sandå and Pinmeto. Other new clients acquired during the third quarter are DNA, City of Tampere and Pricer.

Looking ahead, I remain cautiously optimistic. The improving market conditions in Sweden provide a foundation for growth, and we are committed to addressing the challenges in Finland through ongoing initiatives and continued focus on efficiency.

I extend my sincere gratitude to all our employees for their dedication and hard work. Together, we are advancing towards a stronger future for Digitalist Group.

/CEO Magnus Leijonborg

FUTURE PROSPECTS

In 2024, turnover and EBITDA are expected to decrease in comparison with 2023.

EVENTS AFTER THE THIRD QUARTER

Digitalist Group Plc decreases its earlier guidance regarding future prospects 17.10.2024

Digitalist Group Plc (”Company”) decreases its earlier guidance regarding future prospects. The new guidance is:

In 2024, turnover and EBITDA are expected to decrease in comparison with 2023.

The previous guidance of the company was:

In 2024, it is expected that turnover will maintain its current level and EBITDA will improve in comparison with 2023.

Although the third quarter shows an improvement compared to the first quarters of the year, and we are cautiously optimistic regarding the fourth quarter, we do not expect to reach last year’s reported EBITDA, which included other operating income of EUR 1.0 million. Operationally, not including the impact of other operating income, we expect that the current financial year will still be stronger than the previous year.

The stock exchange releases are on the company’s website at https://digitalist.global/investors/releases

Despite the implemented efficiency measures and financial arrangements, the cash flow for the next 12 months is likely to be negative, according to the forecast. However, at the time of publishing the business review, the company estimates that its working capital is sufficient for the needs of the next 12 months, taking into account the financing support provided by the main owner if needed.

DIGITALIST GROUP OYJ
Board of Directors

Additional information:
Digitalist Group Plc
CEO Magnus Leijonborg, tel. +46 76 315 8422, magnus.leijonborg@digitalistgroup.com
Chairman of the Board Esa Matikainen, tel. +358 40 506 0080, esa.matikainen@digitalistgroup.com

Distribution:
Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
Major media
https://digitalist.global

Attachment
- ENG Digitalist Group Business Review Q3 2024
The MIL Network –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Anoto resolves on a SEK 15 million directed issue, a SEK 50 million rights issue and a set-off issue of SEK 21 million to strengthen the company’s financial position and for the implementation of the company’s business plan
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NOT FOR PUBLICATION, DISTRIBUTION OR RELEASE, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES, AUSTRALIA, BELARUS, HONG KONG, JAPAN, CANADA, NEW ZEALAND, RUSSIA, SINGAPORE, SOUTH AFRICA OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION WHERE SUCH PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION WOULD BE UNLAWFUL.

Anoto Group AB (“Anoto” or the “Company“) hereby informs that the Board of Directors has resolved to carry out a directed share issue amounting to approximately SEK 15 million, a rights issue amounting to approximately SEK 50 million and a set-off issue amounting to approximately SEK 21 million. The issues are being carried out in order to strengthen the Company’s financial position and to implement the Company’s business plan. The rights issue is covered by subscription and guarantee undertakings amounting to in total 100 percent. The rights issue, the directed share issue and the set-off issue are subject to approval by an Extraordinary General Meeting.

Background and Rationale

Anoto is a global Swedish technology company in digital writing and drawing. The Company develops and manufactures smart pens and related software using its proprietary technology. Anoto bridges the analogue and digital worlds with its solution, pattern recognition, optics and image processing. Anoto’s business idea is to offer an intuitive digital pen that works easily, connecting the art and experience of writing on paper with instant usability on digital devices. The Company has two main business areas: B2C (Livescribe) and B2B (Enterprise Forms). Enterprise Solutions offers digital pens for professional and legal purposes, such as signatures, forms and documents while Livescribe is aimed at consumers who want to use digital pens for note-taking, meetings, messaging and creative applications. Anoto’s sales of hardware and software generate two different types of revenue streams; one-off revenue per digital pen sold from Livescribe and subscription fees from Enterprise Forms.

Over the last year the Company has recruited a new management team with experience from building and scaling companies on an international scale as well as with a long track-record of successful product launches within the consumer sector. The new management team has, together with the Board of Directors, developed a new consumer centric strategy that is focused on growth and profitability and that includes new product launches including improved supporting software. As a first step, Anoto will launch its new product LivePen in November of 2024. The LivePen is an affordable digital pen that comes along with the accompanying LivePen app. The app allows users to instantly transfer their handwritten notes into digital form, creating a seamless integration between traditional writing and digital platforms. A key part of Anoto’s new strategy is to use a data-driven approach to understand user experiences and feedback. By analysing how users interact with the LivePen and the app, Anoto can continuously improve its products and services. This approach will inform future developments in both the pen and software segments, ensuring that products meet user needs and expectations.

The demand for digital pens is expected to be strong and grow over the coming years, and Anoto sees a high potential for the LivePen as well as for the next-generation of digital pens and supporting software where, inter alia, Artificial intelligence (AI) powered handwriting and orientation recognition will be central. In order to capture these growth opportunities, the Company will need to build inventory and invest in marketing for LivePen with the accompanying LivePen app as well as invest in research and development for the next generation of digital pens. In order to facilitate growth, the Company also has a need to strengthen its financial position by reducing debt and improving its working capital.

In view of the above, the Board of Directors has resolved to carry out a directed share issue of approximately SEK 15 million (the “Directed Issue”), a right issue of approximately SEK 50 million, which is covered by subscription and guarantee undertakings amounting to in total 100 percent (the “Rights Issue”), and a set-of issue of approximately SEK 21 million (the “Set-off Issue”) (and together with the Directed Issue and the Rights Issue the “Issues”).

The proceeds from the Issues amounts to approximately SEK 86 million before transaction related costs. Of the issue proceeds, approximately SEK 40.0 million relates to set-off of loans in the Issues. The Company intends to use the net proceeds expected to be received in connection with the New Share Issues for the following purposes and in the order of priority set out below.

The Directed Issue
- Manufacturing approximately 47 per cent
- Selling, general and administrative expenses approximately 35 per cent
- Marketing approximately 7 per cent
Rights issue
- Manufacturing approximately 62 per cent
- Selling, general and administrative expenses approximately 27 per cent
- Marketing approximately 7 per cent
- General corporate purpose approximately 4 per cent
Directed Issue

The Board of Directors of Anoto has, with deviation from the shareholders’ preferential rights, resolved on the issue of no more than 125,043,750 new ordinary shares at a subscription price of SEK 0.12 per share. Payment for the subscribed shares shall be made through payment in cash or through set-off of claim. The Directed Issue provides the Company with proceeds of a total of approximately SEK 15 million before transaction related. The Directed Issue is subject to the approval by an Extraordinary General Meeting, which is scheduled to be held on 26 November 2024 (the “EGM”). The new shares have been subscribed for by institutional and other qualified investors. Payment for the subscribed shares shall be made no later than on 27 November 2024.

The reason for the deviation from the shareholders’ preferential rights is that the Company is in great need of capital and the Board of Directors believes that the expected issue proceeds in a timely and cost-effective manner will enable the Company to (i) ensure continued operations until a rights issue has been completed, and (ii) diversify and strengthen the Company’s shareholder base with institutional investors, which justifies the issue’s deviation from the shareholders’ preferential rights. The Directed Issue will, unlike the Rights Issue, broaden the shareholder base and provide the Company with new reputable owners, which the Board of Directors believes will strengthen the liquidity of the share and be favorable for the Company. In light of the above, the Board of Directors has made the assessment that the Directed Issue with deviation from the shareholders’ preferential rights is favorable for the Company and in the best interest of the Company’s shareholders.

The subscription price has been determined through arm’s length negotiations with the subscribers in the Directed Issue. The Board of Directors has also taken into account that the Rights Issue (as described below) is carried out with a subscription price of SEK 0.12 per ordinary share and has therefore deemed it reasonable that the Directed Issue is carried out on equivalent terms.

The new shares in the Directed Issue corresponds to approximately 11.3 percent of the total number of shares in the Company after dilution, calculated on the number of shares in the Company after the completion of the Rights Issue and the Set-off Issue and assuming that the Rights Issue is fully subscribed.

Rights Issue

The Board of Directors of Anoto has resolved on the issue of no more than 414,823,830 new ordinary shares with preferential rights for the shareholders, raising proceeds of approximately SEK 50 million before transaction related costs. The Rights Issue is subject to the approval by the EGM, which is scheduled to be held on 26 November 2024.

In the Rights Issue, Anoto’s current shareholders will have a preferential right to subscribe for new shares in proportion to the number of shares held on the record date on 28 November 2024. The last day of trading in Anoto’s share including the right to participate in the Rights Issue will be 26 November 2024. The subscription period is expected to run from 2 December 2024 to 16 December 2024.

One (1) share held on the record date entitles to one (1) subscription right, according to the proposed terms and conditions. Four (4) subscription rights entitle the holder to subscribe for five (5) new shares. The subscription price has been set to SEK 0.12 per share.

Shares which are subscribed for without preferential rights will be offered to current shareholders and other investors who have applied to subscribe for new shares without preferential rights. The new shares in the Rights Issue corresponds to approximately 37.6 percent of the total number of shares in the Company after dilution, calculated on the number of shares in the Company after the completion of the Directed Issue and the Set-off Issue and assuming that the Rights Issue is fully subscribed.

Set-off Issue

As previously communicated through a press release, on 27 June 2024, the Company entered into a convertible investment agreement with Mark Stolkin and DDM Debt AB, two major shareholders in Anoto, providing Anoto with a total of USD 1.5 million in the form of convertible loans (the “Investment Agreement“). The Investment Agreement has since been increased by a total of USD 0.5 million with the following investors having adhered the Investment Agreement: Gary Butcher, BLS Futures Limited, Rocco Homes Ltd, Machroes Holdings Ltd and Adrian Weller.

Under the terms of the Investment Agreement, upon the request of a lender, the outstanding loan amount, in full or in part, plus accrued interest, shall be converted into newly issued ordinary shares of the Company at a conversion price of SEK 0.42, which corresponds to the current quota value of the shares, and at a fixed exchange rate of 10.51 SEK/USD. However, in the event of a Qualified Financing Round (see further details in the press release published by the Company on 27 June 2024) the outstanding loan amounts shall automatically be converted into newly issued ordinary shares in Anoto at a conversion price corresponding to 75 percent of the subscription price in the Qualified Financing Round.

Due to the Rights Issue constituting a Qualified Financing Round, the Board of Directors has resolved on a directed issue of a total of 230,636,111 ordinary shares with payment by way of set-off to the lenders Mark Stolkin, DDM Debt AB, Gary Butcher, BLS Futures Limited, Rocco Homes Ltd., Machroes Holdings Ltd and Adrian Weller. The subscription price per ordinary share is SEK 0.09, which corresponds to 75 percent of the subscription price in the Rights Issue. The subscription price in the Set-off Issue has been determined in accordance with the Investment Agreement between Anoto and the lenders. Payment shall be made through set-off of claims in connection with subscription. The Set-off Issue is subject to the approval by the EGM, which is scheduled to be held on 26 November 2024.

The new shares in the Set-Off Issue correspond to approximately 20.9 percent of the total number of shares in the Company after dilution, calculated on the number of shares in the Company after the completion of the Directed Issue and the Rights Issue and assuming that the Rights Issue is fully subscribed.

Subscription undertakings and guarantee commitments

Anoto has received subscription undertakings amounting to approximately 30.2 percent of the Rights Issue from existing shareholders.

Furthermore, the Company has entered into underwriting agreements consisting of a so-called bottom guarantee of approximately SEK 21.2 million, corresponding to approximately 42.6 percent of the Rights Issue, and a so-called top guarantee of approximately SEK 13.6 million, corresponding to approximately 27.3 percent of the Rights Issue. The bottom guarantee ensures, provided that subscription takes place at least corresponding to the subscription undertakings, that approximately 72.7 percent of the Rights Issue is subscribed and paid. The top guarantee ensures that 100 percent of the Rights Issue is subscribed for and paid for, provided that subscriptions are at least equivalent to the subscription undertakings and the bottom guarantee.

For the guarantee undertakings a fee of 14 percent of the guaranteed amount is paid in cash compensation or in the form of new shares. The guarantee undertakings is subject to customary conditions. The guarantee undertaking is not secured through a bank guarantee, blocked funds, or pledge of collateral or similar arrangement.

New Board Member

Adrian Weller, one of the investors in the Directed Issue and the Set-off Issue, will be proposed as a new member of the Board of Directors at the EGM scheduled to be held on 26 November 2024.

Extraordinary General Meeting

The Rights Issue is subject to approval by the EGM scheduled to be held on 26 November 2024. Notice to the EGM will be published in a separate press release later today and will be available on www.anoto.com.

Prospectus

Complete terms and conditions for the Rights Issue, as well as other information regarding the Company, will be provided in the prospectus that is planned to be published on or about 29 November 2024. The Prospectus which will be published on the Company’s website (www.anoto.com).

Advisers

Setterwalls Advokatbyrå is acting as legal advisor and Bergs Securities AB (“Bergs Securities”) is acting as Sole Global Coordinator and Bookrunner to the Company in connection with the Issues.

This information constitutes inside information as Anoto Group AB (publ) is obliged to disclose under the EU Market Abuse Regulation 596/2014. The information was provided by the contact person below for publication 25 October 2024 at 08:15 CEST.

For further information, please contact:

Kevin Adeson, Chairman of the board of Anoto Group AB (publ)

For more information about Anoto, please visit www.anoto.com or email ir@anoto.com

Anoto Group AB (publ), Reg.No. 556532-3929, Flaggan 1165, SE-116 74 Stockholm

About Anoto Group

Anoto is a publicly held Swedish technology company known globally for innovation in the area of information-rich patterns and the optical recognition of those patterns. It is a lead-er in digital writing and drawing solutions, having historically used its proprietary technology to develop smartpens and related software. These smartpens enrich the daily lives of millions of people around the world. Anoto currently has three main business lines: Livescribe retail, Enterprise Forms and OEM. Anoto also holds a stake in Knowledge AI, a leading AI based education solution company. Anoto is traded on the Small Cap list of Nasdaq Stockholm under ANOT.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

The release, announcement or distribution of this press release may, in certain jurisdictions, be subject to restrictions. The recipients of this press release in jurisdictions where this press release has been published or distributed shall inform themselves of and follow such restrictions. The recipient of this press release is responsible for using this press release, and the information contained herein, in accordance with applicable rules in each jurisdiction. This press release does not constitute an offer, or a solicitation of any offer, to buy or subscribe for any securities in the Company in any jurisdiction where such offer would be considered illegal. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or an offer to buy or subscribe for shares issued by the Company in any jurisdiction where such offer or invitation would be illegal. In a member state within the European Economic Area (“EEA”), shares referred to in the press release may only be offered in accordance with applicable exemptions under the Prospectus Regulation.

This press release does not constitute or form part of an offer or solicitation to purchase or subscribe for securities in the United States. The securities referred to herein may not be sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration under the US Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and may not be offered or sold within the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act. There is no intention to register any securities referred to herein in the United States or to make a public offering of the securities in the United States. The information in this press release may not be announced, published, copied, reproduced or distributed, directly or indirectly, in whole or in part, within or into the United States, Australia, Belarus, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand, Russia, Singapore, South Africa, or in any other jurisdiction where such announcement, publication or distribution of the information would not comply with applicable laws and regulations or where such actions are subject to legal restrictions or would require additional registration or other measures than what is required under Swedish law. Actions taken in violation of this instruction may constitute a crime against applicable securities laws and regulations.

In the United Kingdom, this document and any other materials in relation to the securities described herein is only being distributed to, and is only directed at, and any investment or investment activity to which this document relates is available only to, and will be engaged in only with, “qualified investors” who are (i) persons having professional experience in matters relating to investments who fall within the definition of “investment professionals” in Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the “Order”); or (ii) high net worth entities falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as “relevant persons”). In the United Kingdom, any investment or investment activity to which this communication relates is available only to, and will be engaged in only with, relevant persons. Persons who are not relevant persons should not take any action on the basis of this press release and should not act or rely on it.

A prospectus will be prepared in connection with the offering and admission to trading of shares in Anoto. The prospectus will be scrutinized and approved by the Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority. The Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority’s approval of the prospectus should not be understood as an endorsement of the securities being offered and admitted to trading. The prospectus will contain a description of the risks and rewards associated with an investment in Anoto and potential investors are recommended to read the prospectus in its entirety before making an investment decision.

The prospectus will be published by the Company on or around 29 November 2024 and available on the Company’s website, www.anoto.com. This release is however not a prospectus in accordance to the definition in the Prospectus Regulation. In accordance with article 2 k of the Prospectus Regulation this press release constitutes an advertisement. Complete information regarding the Rights Issue can only be obtained through the Prospectus. Anoto has not authorized any offer to the public of shares or rights in any other member state of the EEA. In any EEA Member State, this communication is only addressed to and is only directed at qualified investors in that Member State within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation. This announcement does not identify or suggest, or purport to identify or suggest, the risks (direct or indirect) that may be associated with an investment in the new shares. Any investment decision in connection with the Rights Issue must be made on the basis of all publicly available information relating to the Company and the Company’s shares. Such information has not been independently verified by Bergs Securities. Bergs Securities is acting for the Company in connection with the transaction and no one else and will not be responsible to anyone other than the Company for providing the protections afforded to its clients nor for giving advice in relation to the transaction or any other matter referred to herein.

Information to distributors

Solely for the purposes of the product governance requirements contained within: (a) EU Directive 2014/65/EU on markets in financial instruments, as amended (“MiFID II”); (b) Articles 9 and 10 of Commission Delegated Directive (EU) 2017/593 supplementing MiFID II; and (c) local implementing measures (together, the “MiFID II Product Governance Requirements”), and disclaiming all and any liability, whether arising in tort, contract or otherwise, which any “manufacturer” (for the purposes of the MiFID II Product Governance Requirements) may otherwise have with respect thereto, the shares in Anoto have been subject to a product approval process, which has determined that such shares are: (i) compatible with an end target market of retail investors and investors who meet the criteria of professional clients and eligible counterparties, each as defined in MiFID II; and (ii) eligible for distribution through all distribution channels as are permitted by MiFID II (the “Target Market Assessment”). Notwithstanding the Target Market Assessment, Distributors should note that: the price of the shares in Anoto may decline and investors could lose all or part of their investment; the shares in Anoto offer no guaranteed income and no capital protection; and an investment in the shares in Anoto is compatible only with investors who do not need a guaranteed income or capital protection, who (either alone or in conjunction with an appropriate financial or other adviser) are capable of evaluating the merits and risks of such an investment and who have sufficient resources to be able to bear any losses that may result therefrom. The Target Market Assessment is without prejudice to the requirements of any contractual, legal or regulatory selling restrictions in relation to the Rights Issue.

For the avoidance of doubt, the Target Market Assessment does not constitute: (a) an assessment of suitability or appropriateness for the purposes of MiFID II; or (b) a recommendation to any investor or group of investors to invest in, or purchase, or take any other action whatsoever with respect to the shares in Anoto.

Each distributor is responsible for undertaking its own target market assessment in respect of the shares in Anoto and determining appropriate distribution channels.

Attachment
- Final Project Phoenix – Launch release SWE 2024-10-25
The MIL Network –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Binance Blockchain Week 2024: UXUY Unveils NFC Cards – Tap2Earn Onsite to Receive BNB Chain Ecosystem Airdrops

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Dubai, Oct. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Binance will host its Binance Blockchain Week 2024 from October 30 to October 31 at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, UAE, under the theme “Momentum.”

The conference will focus on key topics such as technology, regulation, community, and the social impact of blockchain. Notable speakers include Binance founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ), Binance CEO Richard Teng, Dubai Future Foundation CEO HE Khalfan Belhoul, and Circle CEO Jeremy Allaire, among other thought leaders.

This year’s theme, “Momentum,” emphasizes the importance of harnessing the driving forces of the crypto industry to overcome current challenges and achieve future milestones. Attendees will engage in deep discussions about how “Momentum” will shape the future of Web3.

BNB Chain Ecosystem Airdrop

During the event, UXUY, a multi-chain infrastructure incubated and invested in by Binance Labs, will release limited edition NFC cards. Attendees can tap the NFC card with their phones to instantly create a UXUY Telegram wallet and receive a random airdrop from the BNB Chain ecosystem, including BNB, FDUSD, and other popular tokens. This interactive feature adds fun and engagement to the event, giving users the exciting experience of Tap2Earn in a live setting.

The UXUY Telegram Wallet is the first decentralized multi-chain wallet on Telegram, developed and operated by UXUY. It supports 21 blockchains, including BNB Chain, Bitcoin Lightning Network, Base, Solana, and TRON, with nearly 1.5 million users. UXUY’s mission is to bring 900 million users into the multi-chain crypto world.

UXUY is actively integrating BNB Chain DApps, such as PancakeSwap, Four.Meme, and KiloEx, achieving over 1.2 million on-chain interactions. This significantly lowers the barrier for Telegram’s 900 million users to access BNB Chain, continuously unlocking its immense potential.

Exclusive Access to Cutting-Edge Crypto Technology

This year’s Binance Blockchain Week not only brings together top leaders in the crypto industry but also introduces the eagerly awaited Innovation Stage. Attendees will gain first-hand insights into the latest advancements in cutting-edge platforms, tools, DeFi, NFTs, and other emerging trends, staying ahead of the curve. The Innovation Stage will also provide personalized, interactive experiences for engaged participants through live demos and keynote presentations, enriching the event’s content and format.

Jordan, co-founder of UXUY, will deliver a compelling talk on the Innovation Stage, sharing insights into UXUY’s pioneering work within the Telegram ecosystem.

Stay tuned for more details

Leading up to the event, visit the Binance Blockchain Week 2024 official website for the latest updates, ticket information, and more.

About BNB Chain

BNB Chain is a community-driven blockchain ecosystem that is breaking down barriers to Web3 adoption. It consists of the following components:

BNB Smart Chain (BSC): A secure DeFi hub with the lowest gas fees among all EVM-compatible L1s, serving as the governance chain of the ecosystem.

opBNB: A scalable L2 that offers the lowest gas fees and fast processing speeds among all L2s.

BNB Greenfield: Fulfills the ecosystem’s decentralized storage needs and allows users to create their own data marketplace.

About UXUY

UXUY, incubated and invested in by Binance Labs, is a next-generation decentralized multi-chain infrastructure that has launched its app and bot products across iOS, Android, and the Telegram ecosystem.

UXUY Wallet (@UXUYbot) is the first self-custody multi-chain wallet on Telegram, supporting various blockchains, including Bitcoin Lightning Network, BNB Chain, Base, TON, Arbitrum, TRON, and more. UXUY has created the first decentralized multi-chain wallet and DApp center based on Telegram, with over 1.5 million users. The goal of UXUY Wallet is to bring 900 million users into the multi-chain crypto ecosystem.

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Wave of the future: How DASA-backed AI innovation is revolutionising maritime rescue
Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

Scotland-based SME Zelim has won a contract with the US Navy to deploy their innovative AI-enabled Person-in-Water detection and tracking technology, known as ZOE.
Zelim’s detection and tracking system uses AI to scan the water surface to find people in the water much more accurately and consistently than human eyes and current systems can

Low-cost and easy to integrate, the software solution can be implemented in any camera or CCTV setup

DASA funding has helped take the solution from concept to commercial project, which is now being used on commercial ships, offshore energy infrastructure and commercial ports

In 2024, Zelim was awarded a US Navy contract to deploy ZOE – their advanced AI-enabled person in water detection and tracking technology

In 2024, Edinburgh-based SME Zelim achieved a remarkable milestone: securing a contract with the US Navy to deploy an advanced Person-in-Water detection system. This breakthrough, rooted in artificial intelligence, represents a significant leap forward in maritime rescue technology – and it all began with support from the UK’s Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA).

The US Navy contract, awarded through a Phase I SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) program, recognises Zelim’s cutting-edge AI-enabled detection and tracking technology. This system, known as ZOE, can scan vast stretches of ocean, identifying and tracking individuals or objects with unprecedented accuracy – even in challenging conditions that would confound human observers and current vision systems.

How did a small Scottish company attract the attention of the US Navy? In 2022, Zelim presented the search and rescue concept to the DASA Open Call, which offered essential early-stage funding and expertise, allowing Zelim to turn their idea into reality. Zelim’s DASA project helped the SME tackle significant challenges, such as gathering person in water rescue data across a huge range of conditions and creating a comprehensive database for accurately identifying humans in water – a critical component in making the system reliable enough for real-world rescue operations.

Andy Tipping, Co-Founder and Business Development Director explains:

The DASA offering is unique, we had a DASA Subject Matter Expert who was always on hand to keep us on track and to make sure whatever we developed would meet defence customer needs, plus we had an Exploitation Manager working tirelessly to secure meetings with a range of MoD and Home Office end users. The result was, by the end of the project we started securing our first contracts in civilian markets, selling our AI enabled detection system to offshore energy operators and several months later our technology was selected for the US Navy SBIR programme. Being a DASA Alumni also gave credibility and it wasn’t long after the project completed that we secured our Series A investment round.

From UK Innovation to US Navy Contract

As soon as someone enters the water, rescuers are against the clock. This is greatly understood by Zelim founder, Sam Mayall, a seasoned mariner with a wide range of experience, from small dinghies to 40,000-ton ships. With a background in commercial shipping, Sam has experienced numerous emergencies at sea, including a tragic incident where rescuers discovered a body floating face down in the water.

This experience ignited the desire to help improve maritime safety for sailors and equip rescuers with better tools, enhanced by AI and automation to ensure safer operations in the vast ocean and help overcome challenges such as:

Vastness of Oceans

Individuals lost at sea can be difficult to spot with only their head often visible, which can be missed or confused with other ocean debris.

Poor Weather Conditions

Fog, ocean spray, and darkness significantly reduce visibility, complicating the search efforts.

Imperfect Human Eyesight

Human vision is fallible; fatigue and level of concentration can lead to false detections and missed rescue opportunities.

Reliance on Binoculars or CCTV

During the critical period, rescuers using only binoculars or viewing camera streams may struggle to keep sight of the individual as they disappear behind waves, sea spray and other vessels

Parallax Effect

The difference in movement speeds between foreground and background can confuse existing vision systems.

Charting new waters with ZOE

Zoe works by scanning the sea surface, sifting through the busy marine surroundings to pinpoint individuals or specific objects. These targets can then be recognised, identified, and tracked using their unique AI software.

A key advantage of ZOE is its flexibility in accounting for the dynamic and chaotic nature of the sea, avoiding false positives from objects like buoys by analysing live daylight and thermal camera feeds for human-like patterns. Zelim spent several years compiling a comprehensive data library to ensure reliable identification, solving the last piece of the puzzle for effective ocean rescue.

Additionally, ZOE is software-based and hardware agnostic, applicable to any camera or CCTV feed, making it ideal for commercial shipping, passenger vessels, naval ships, search and rescue aircraft and ports.

How Zelim’s innovation can bolster search and rescue

Compatible with various camera systems

Alerts users to humans in water with 96% accuracy from 300 meters

Operates effectively in adverse weather and low light

Automatically tracks spotted individuals, preventing loss

Easy-to-install software managing multiple feeds, with local data processing

More efficient than traditional methods like binoculars and standard sensors

Zelim’s ZOE detection solution in action

Breaking into defence and civilian markets: What does the future hold for Zelim?

DASA support proved invaluable for Zelim. By the end of the DASA project, Zelim had not only created a working prototype but had also begun securing their first contracts in civilian markets, including:

Jack-up drilling rigs in the North Sea

A floating wind farm off the coast of Portugal owned by Ocean Winds

A cruise ship

The effectiveness of Zelim’s solution was evident during field trials, demonstrating its accuracy, measurability, and consistency. The system can achieve 96% accuracy from over 330 meters without applying optical zoom, and with optical zoom, it can spot humans in the water over a kilometre away.

These capabilities caught the attention of defence organisations worldwide. In addition to the US Navy contract, Zelim’s technology was also deployed in a Royal Canadian Air Force search and rescue exercise in 2024, where it demonstrated its ability to find and track humans at sea with no false positives.

The company’s growth reflects its success. Starting the DASA project with just 10 employees, Zelim has now expanded to a team of 28, with further growth anticipated as they work to fulfill the US Navy and offshore energy contracts.

Looking ahead, Zelim plans to increase deployment of their technology on ships, major global ports, search and rescue assets, and air assets. This ambitious growth strategy underscores the far-reaching impact of DASA’s initial support – from fostering UK innovation to enhancing global maritime safety and creating economic opportunities.

The US Navy contract stands as a testament to the power of targeted innovation support. By backing Zelim’s vision, DASA has not only contributed to advancing a innovative UK technology but has also opened doors for a British SME on the global stage, demonstrating how investment in innovation can yield significant returns for both national security and prosperity.

Updates to this page

Published 25 October 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESIDENT OF INDIA GRACES CONVOCATION OF AIIMS RAIPUR

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 25 OCT 2024 2:35PM by PIB Delhi

The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu graced and addressed the 2nd convocation of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Raipur today (October 25, 2024).

Speaking on the occasion, the President said that AIIMS are known for providing good healthcare services and medical education at low cost. People’s trust is associated with AIIMS. That is why a large number of people come from everywhere to get treatment in AIIMS. She was happy to note that AIIMS Raipur has earned a lot of reputation in its journey of just a few years. She noted that AIIMS Raipur is taking various steps for medical treatment and public welfare. She expressed confidence that in the coming times, this institute will expand further in public welfare work.

Addressing the doctors, the President said that the privileged ones might have many options but the hopes of the underprivileged rest on them. She advised them to serve all people, especially the poor and deprived.

The President told doctors that medical professionals’ work is extremely responsible. Their decisions are often related to saving lives. As medical professionals, they often face challenging situations. She advised them to learn to control their emotions to face these challenges.

The President said that moving from student to professional life is a major change. She advised graduating doctors to keep growing their knowledge. She said that the spirit of always learning something new would be beneficial for them.

Please click here to see the President’s Speech –

***

MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2068055) Visitor Counter : 86

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English Translation of Keynote Address by Prime Minister at the 18th Asia-Pacific Conference of German Businesses (APK 2024)

Source: Government of India (2)

Posted On: 25 OCT 2024 2:55PM by PIB Delhi

Excellency Chancellor Scholz,

Vice Chancellor Dr. Robert Habeck,

Ministers of the Indian Government,

Dr. Busch, Chairman of the Asia-Pacific Committee of German Business,

Industry leaders from India, Germany, and Indo-Pacific countries,

Ladies and gentlemen,

Namaskar!

Guten Tag!

Friends,

Today is a very special day.

My friend, Chancellor Scholz, has come to India for the fourth time.

His first visit was as a Mayor, and the next three have been during his terms as the Chancellor, which highlights his focus on India-Germany relations.

The Asia-Pacific Conference of German Business is being held in India after a gap of 12 years.

On one hand, a CEO forum meeting is taking place, and on the other, our navies are exercising together. German naval ships are currently on a port call in Goa. Additionally, the seventh Inter-Governmental Consultations between India and Germany will be held shortly.

Clearly, the friendship between India and Germany is deepening at every step, on every front.

Friends,

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the India-Germany Strategic Partnership.

The next 25 years will see this partnership reach new heights.

We have created a roadmap for India’s development over the coming 25 years.

I am happy that at such a critical time, the German Cabinet has released the “Focus on India” document.

The world’s two strongest democracies,

Two of the world’s leading economies, together, we can become a force for global good, and the Focus on India document provides a blueprint for this. In this, Germany’s holistic approach and commitment to pursuing the strategic partnership are clearly evident. Especially noteworthy is the trust that Germany has expressed in the skilled workforce of India.

Germany has decided to increase the number of visas for skilled Indians from 20,000 to 90,000 per year.

I am confident that this will further boost Germany’s economic growth.

Friends,

Our bilateral trade has surpassed 30 billion dollars.

Today, while hundreds of German companies operate in India, Indian companies are also rapidly expanding in Germany.

India is becoming a prime center of diversification and de-risking and is emerging as a hub of global trade and manufacturing. Given this scenario, now is the most opportune time for you to make in India, and make for the world.

Friends,

The Asia-Pacific Conference has played an essential role in strengthening relations between the EU and the Asia-Pacific region. But I don’t see this platform as limited to trade and investment alone.

I see it as a partnership for the Indo-Pacific region and a better future for the world. The world needs stability and sustainability, trust and transparency. These values must be emphasized on every front, whether in society or supply chains. Without them, no country or region can envision a brighter future.

The Indo-Pacific region is very important for the future of the world. Whether it is in terms of global growth, population, or skills, the contribution and potential of this region are immense.

This conference, therefore, holds even greater significance.

Friends,

The people of India value a stable polity and a predictable policy ecosystem.

This is why, after 60 years, a government has been elected for a third consecutive term. This trust in India has been strengthened over the last decade through reform, performance, and transformative governance.

When the common citizen of India feels this way, where else would be better for businesses and investors like you?

Friends,

India stands on four strong pillars: Democracy, Demography, Demand, and Data. Talent, technology, innovation, and infrastructure are the tools for India’s growth. Today, an additional great force drives all of these: the strength of Aspirational India.

That is, the combined power of AI — Artificial Intelligence and Aspirational India — is with us. Our youth are driving Aspirational India.

In the last century, natural resources accelerated development. In this century, human resources and innovations will propel growth. This is why India is committed to democratizing skills and technology for its youth.

Friends,

India is working today for the needs of the future world.

Whether it is Mission AI,

Our Semiconductor Mission,

the Quantum Mission,

Mission Green Hydrogen,

Missions related to space technology,

or the Digital India Mission, all of them aim to provide the best and most reliable solutions for the world. These areas offer numerous investment and collaboration opportunities for all of you.

Friends,

India is committed to providing every innovation with a strong platform and the best infrastructure. Our digital public infrastructure is creating endless opportunities for new startups and Industry 4.0. India is also transforming its physical infrastructure with record investments in rail, roads, airports, and ports. There are extensive opportunities here for companies from Germany and the Indo-Pacific region.

I am pleased that India and Germany are working together on renewable energy.

Last month, the fourth Global Renewable Energy Investors Meet was organized in Gujarat in collaboration with Germany.

An India-Germany platform has also been launched for investing in renewable energy at the global level. I hope you will take advantage of the green hydrogen ecosystem that India is developing.

Friends,

This is the right time to join India’s growth story.

When India’s dynamism meets Germany’s precision,

When Germany’s engineering meets India’s innovation,

When Germany’s technology combines with India’s talent, a brighter future is envisioned for the Indo-Pacific region and the world.

Friends,

You belong to the business world.

Your mantra is “When we meet, we mean business.”

But coming to India is not only about business; if you miss India’s culture, cuisine, and shopping, you will miss a lot.

I assure you: You will be happy, and your family back home will be even happier.

Thank you very much, and may this conference and your stay in India be both fruitful and memorable.

Thank you.

DISCLAIMER -This is the approximate translation of Prime Minister’s remarks. Original remarks were delivered

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Establishment of iGOT lab by Ministry of Information and Broadcasting a commendable step for fostering continuous learning: Dr. L. Murugan

Source: Government of India

Establishment of iGOT lab by Ministry of Information and Broadcasting a commendable step for fostering continuous learning: Dr. L. Murugan

AI for Aspirational India: Dr. L. Murugan urges adoption of AI Tools to boost productivity and pnhance governance

Posted On: 25 OCT 2024 2:23PM by PIB Delhi

Dr. L. Murugan, Chief Guest at the National Learning Week 2024 prize distribution ceremony and inauguration of the iGOT lab and learning centre, celebrated the culmination of Karmayogi Saptah.

Sh. Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Information and Broadcasting, Smt Neerja Shekhar Special Secretary, senior officers of Ministry and top performers were also present at the occasion.

Karmayogi Saptah – National Learning Week (NLW)

Karmayogi Saptah – National Learning Week (NLW) is a key initiative launched by the Prime Minister of India Sh. Narendra Modi for building a future-ready civil service and the week emphasized strengthening the competencies of civil servants at all levels to create a workforce that is deeply rooted in Indian values with a global perspective.

On this occasion, Dr. L. Murugan, Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, highlighted the significance of the initiative in enhancing the skills and competencies of over 3 million central civil servants and ensuring access to continuous learning for more than 22 million state-level civil servants and 5 million Urban Local Body (ULB) officials. He also highlighted how this program is open to both permanent and contractual staff, fostering lifelong learning aligned with national goals.

iGOT lab: Fostering learning

Dr. L. Murugan highlighted that the Ministry conducted three webinars focused on social media use, the evolution of film viewing, and photography skill enhancement. Additionally, all employees were required to complete a minimum of four hours of training on the iGOT Karmayogi portal, covering key areas such as office procedures, gender sensitivity, and leadership. He also commended the Ministry’s innovative approach, including the establishment of an iGOT lab, which he described as a commendable step toward fostering continuous learning.

Dr. L. Murugan felicitating the top performers

AI for Aspirational India

In line with the Prime Minister’s vision of leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) to drive the vision of “Aspirational India”, Dr. L. Murugan urged the Ministry to actively incorporate AI tools in the workplace to boost productivity. The Minister urged the adoption of AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini to enhance productivity and reduce the burden of repetitive tasks. With AI-powered data-driven decision-making, civil servants can focus on high-impact areas of governance, ensuring better service delivery and innovation within their departments, he added.

He also urged to focus on behavioral courses to promote citizen-centric governance and emphasized the importance of efficient grievance resolution for improved service delivery.

*****

Dharmendra Tewari/Kshitij Singha

(Release ID: 2068050) Visitor Counter : 68

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India’s ability to scale up paired with Germany’s precision engineering to benefit the world: Shri Piyush Goyal

Source: Government of India

India’s ability to scale up paired with Germany’s precision engineering to benefit the world: Shri Piyush Goyal

India-Germany synergy in AI adoption, semiconductors and green technology to drive global growth: Shri Piyush Goyal

India committed to combat climate change, on track to meet nationally determined contributions: Shri Goyal

Asia’s demographic shift fertile ground for businesses seeking to expand, capitalise on emerging sectors: Shri Goyal

Posted On: 25 OCT 2024 2:21PM by PIB Delhi

Germany’s art of precision engineering coupled with India’s ability to scale up in the physical, digital or social infrastructure will help create something extraordinary for the world said Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal. He was inaugurating the 18th Asia Pacific Conference of German Business (APK) today in New Delhi. The Union Minister speaking on the India-Germany collaboration said that from AI adoption to semiconductors, from fostering the nation’s vibrant startup ecosystem to collaborating on green technology, the synergies between India and Germany can drive unprecedented growth.

Noting that today’s India is built on strong macroeconomic fundamentals, he added that reform, resilience and readiness is available for the future for businesses across the world. On combating climate change, Shri Goyal emphasised India’s commitment at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP21) in 2015, and said that India collectively with the Global South got together with the developed countries to be a part of the solution. He added that India, currently ranked 7th in Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI), is on track to exceed the nationally determined contributions (NDCs) and also the targets set before the world.

Extending gratitude to the Asia Pacific Committee of German Business and the Indo-German Chamber of Commerce for organising the event, Shri Goyal said that the Asia-Pacific region encompasses 60% of world’s population and by 2030, two-thirds of the global middle class will reside in Asia. This demographic shift presents a fertile ground for businesses seeking to

expand their reach and capitalise on emerging sectors, he said.

Shri Goyal stressed that the Conference will be key to identifying emerging trends and tackling global challenges. It facilitates the exchange of best practices, drives technological advancements and shapes policies for future industrial growth, he said. The Union Minister expressed hope that India and Germany can deepen strategic partnerships and translate this collaboration into real growth for the economies and the citizens of both the countries.

Quoting German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer’s expression “Reading the Upanishads is comforting in my life…”, the Minister in the spirit of that ancient wisdom urged all the participants to embrace the richness of India’s culture and diversity especially during this festive season from Diwali until Christmas and New Year.

Shri Goyal ended his speech with a quote from Rabindranath Tagore, “Reach high, for stars lie hidden in you. Dream deep, for every dream precedes the goal” and urged the participants to create the future where the products made, the industries led and the innovations pioneered, touch every corner of the globe.

***

AD/AM

(Release ID: 2068048) Visitor Counter : 81

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Health Minister, Shri J P Nadda Presides over 53rd Foundation Day Celebrations and Convocation of University College of Medical Sciences

Source: Government of India (2)

Union Health Minister, Shri J P Nadda Presides over 53rd Foundation Day Celebrations and Convocation of University College of Medical Sciences

Healthcare professionals make crucial contributions to society and approach their work with compassion, integrity, and dedication: Shri JP Nadda

Reiterates Government’s commitment to strengthening India’s healthcare system and ensuring that medical services are accessible to all

“Union Government changed the National Health Policy in 2017 which made a shift in looking at healthcare from only a curative angle previously to a holistic approach that caters to preventive, integrative as well as curative healthcare”

“Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi had promised to further add 75,000 medical seats in the next five years and we are going to do it”

Posted On: 25 OCT 2024 1:50PM by PIB Delhi

Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare, presided as the Chief Guest at the 53rd Foundation Day and Convocation of the University College of Medical Sciences (UCMS), a constituent medical institution of the University of Delhi, here today. He was joined by Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena, Lt. Governor of Delhi.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Nadda highlighted the crucial contributions that healthcare professionals make to society and urged the graduates to approach their work with compassion, integrity, and dedication. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to strengthening India’s healthcare system and ensuring that medical services are accessible to all. Reaching out to the students, he stated, “Your efforts should be focused on shaping our national vision of ‘Viksit Bharat.”

The Union Health Minister said that “basic education is everyone’s birthright but professional education is a privilege that the society bestows on only a few”. Highlighting that the government spends between 30-35 lakh for every MBBS student, he urged the new doctors to shoulder more responsibilities as they embark on their professional careers.

Shri Nadda also informed about the changes made in the National Health Policy by the Union Government in 2017 which made a shift in looking at healthcare from only a curative angle previously to a holistic approach that caters to preventive, integrative as well as curative healthcare. He also emphasized the recent achievements made in the healthcare sector including the establishment of 22 AIIMS, new medical and nursing colleges, increase in MBBS and MD seats by over 100% etc. He added that “Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi had promised to further add 75,000 medical seats in the next five years and we are going to do it.”

During the ceremony, degrees were conferred to 146 MBBS students, 145 MD/MS students, 17 B.Sc (MT) Radiology students, and 4 M.Sc (R&MIT) students and 62 awards were given. Additionally, 4 certificates in Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT) were awarded. Shri Nadda also distributed awards to meritorious students for their exceptional achievements in the field of medical sciences.

Congratulating the new doctors, Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena, extended his best wishes for their future endeavours. He remarked that UCMS’s unwavering commitment to nurturing capable and compassionate healthcare professionals is commendable and crucial in meeting the country’s ongoing complex health challenges. “This convocation is a recognition of the tireless legacy of UCMS”, he said.

To commemorate the event, a special souvenir was also released, highlighting the academic achievements of the UCMS in the last year.

The convocation ceremony marked a proud moment for graduates, faculty, and family members alike, as the new medical professionals prepare to embark on their careers equipped with the knowledge and skills gained from one of India’s leading medical institutions.

Prof. Balaram Pani, Dean of Colleges, University of Delhi; Prof. (Dr.) Mahesh Verma, Chairperson, Governing Body of UCMS and Vice-Chancellor, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University; Prof. B Srinivas, Secretary of the National Medical Commission (NMC) and Deputy Director General (Medical Education); Dr. Girish Tyagi, Registrar, Delhi Medical Council (DMC) and President-Elect of the Delhi Medical Association; Dr Amita Suneja, Principal, UCMS and senior officials of the Union Health Ministry were present at the event.

***

MV

HFW/MoS AIIMS Foundation Day/25^th September 2024/2

(Release ID: 2068035) Visitor Counter : 78

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESS RELEASE – VISIT OF THE UNITED NATIONS SECRETARY-GENERAL, H.E ANTONIO GUTERRES, 21-23 AUGUST 2024

Source: Government of Western Samoa

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Samoa hosted the United Nations Secretary-General, His Excellency Antonio Guterres on his official visit from 21st to 23rd August 2024. The UN Secretary-General’s visit to Samoa and the Pacific region not only brings global attention to the severe impact of the climate change on Pacific communities but shows commitment to our Blue Pacific region to witness the vulnerabilities of the lived realities as small island states. The visit also highlights Samoa’s leadership at the regional and international level as demonstrated in Samoa’s role as Chair of the AOSIS during meetings at the regional and international fora.

The UN Secretary-General’s visit marks a significant milestone, coinciding with the tenth anniversary of the last visit by a UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki Moon in 2014 when Samoa hosted the Third International Conference of the Small Islands Developing States.

The visit included a bilateral meeting with the Prime Minister where discussions were held on pertinent matters highlighting the priorities and challenges of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) placing prominence on Climate Change with stark implications for SIDS and sustainable development. The bilateral was followed by a welcome ava ceremony and a field visit to witness climate impacted communities and the resilience of our communities with adaptation measures implemented.

At the end of the field visit the UN Secretary General attended the handover ceremony of the new wing of the One-Un House at Tuanaimato which will enable the location of all the UN agencies into the Multi-country office to enable collaboration and delivery as One UN on the national development needs of Samoa and the whole cluster including Cook Islands, Niue and Tokelau. The Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Hon Toeolesulusulu Cedric Schuster on behalf of the Government of Samoa, presented remarks during the Hand-over ceremony and unveiled the plaque together with UN Secretary General.

The Prime Minister, Hon Fiame Naomi Mataafa hosted a dinner at the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum in honour of the visit of the UN Secretary General and his delegation.

H.E Antonio Guterres was accompanied by a delegation of eleven (11) officials including Mr. E. Courtenay Rattray, Chef de Cabinet and Ms. Rabab Fatima, Under-Secretary-General, High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States, officials and security officers

The UN Secretary General departs Samoa on Friday 23 August 2024 for Tonga to attend the 53rd Pacific Island Forum Leaders Meeting.

END.

SOURCE – MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE

Photos by Government of Samoa (Leaosa Faaifo Faaifo)

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September 13, 2024

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Superbridge Summit 2024 successfully concludes, driving trade and investment partnerships in Global South

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

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, October 25, 2024/APO Group/ —

SuperBridge Summit 2024 (https://SuperBridgeDubai.com), organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and the SuperBridge Council, successfully concluded at One&Only One Za’abeel Hotel, Dubai. The two-day event held alongside GITEX Global convened over 700 C-Level Executives and 60 renowned speakers from fast-growing economic regions in the Global South, establishing itself as a global platform for innovation, collaboration, and community-building.

During the event, H.E. Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, UAE, delivered a keynote address. He shared insights on the rising role of advanced technologies, and AI innovations, encouraging participants to gain a critical understanding of their community’s future growth trajectory.

The dynamic event convened next-gen leaders from the Mid-East, Africa and South Asia, exploring key avenues of collaboration in the sustainability, tech, banking, retail, and healthcare industries. These pertinent discussions further highlighted innovation being led by pioneers like Insilico, a leading biotech company in the UAE, Nigeria’s renowned fintech firm Flutterwave and Singapore’s MVGX Group, a tech leader committed to decarbonisation. Moreover, the summit underscored the rise of cross-border investments within the Global South. This further reaffirms the importance of nurturing robust economic partnerships between entities in the region.

The impactful sessions while promoting cutting-edge ideas, also underscored the vital role of global perspectives in driving innovation, highlighted by the partnership established by the Superbridge Summit with Dubai Chambers, global travel leader Trip.com, edtech firm Laix, innovation and research center NICE, blockchain leaders MVGX, and METACOMP.

Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President at Dubai World Trade Centre said, “As the UAE emerges as a global epicentre of innovation, business events like SuperBridge Summit further catalyse this growth, reaffirming GITEX’s enduring commitment to driving collaboration and fostering a prosperous future for coming generations. The event had an exemplary attendee lineup encompassing high-level changemakers, thought leaders and C-level executives from diverse industries who shared their valuable insights on crucial topics. We are immensely grateful to the summit’s attendees for their support and are confident that the event will facilitate positive change across diverse sectors.”

Khalid Al Jarwan, Vice President of Operations and acting Vice President of Digital and Commercial Sectors at Dubai Chambers, commented, “The SuperBridge Summit aligns closely with Dubai Chambers’ objectives by creating a global platform for collaboration. Events of this kind play a vital role in connecting key stakeholders, fostering impactful partnerships, and driving innovation. We remain committed to helping businesses and investors from across the globe leverage Dubai’s strategic advantages to promote economic growth and contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.”

As a global platform for innovation, the summit facilitated valuable inputs that enabled attendees gain new insights and a renewed sense of purpose, inspiring them to contribute to the holistic development of the global economy.

MIL OSI Africa –

January 25, 2025

MIL-OSI Europe: Minutes – Thursday, 24 October 2024 – Strasbourg – Final edition

Source: European Parliament

PV-10-2024-10-24

iPlPv_Sit

Minutes
Thursday, 24 October 2024 – Strasbourg

IN THE CHAIR: Esteban GONZÁLEZ PONS
Vice-President

1. Opening of the sitting

The sitting opened at 09:00.

2. Composition of committees and delegations

The PPE Group had notified the President of the following decisions changing the composition of the committees and delegations:

ENVI Committee: Hanna Gronkiewicz-Waltz

FISC Subcommittee: Danuše Nerudová

Delegation to the EU-Ukraine Parliamentary Association Committee: Michał Szczerba

Delegation for relations with Israel: Hildegard Bentele to replace Daniel Buda

Delegation to the EU-Türkiye Joint Parliamentary Committee: Daniel Buda to replace Hildegard Bentele

The decisions took effect as of that day.

3. Closing the EU skills gap: supporting people in the digital and green transitions to ensure inclusive growth and competitiveness in line with the Draghi report (debate)

Commission statement: Closing the EU skills gap: supporting people in the digital and green transitions to ensure inclusive growth and competitiveness in line with the Draghi report (2024/2871(RSP))

Janusz Wojciechowski (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

The following spoke: Liesbet Sommen, on behalf of the PPE Group, Gabriele Bischoff, on behalf of the S&D Group, Paolo Borchia, on behalf of the PfE Group, Mariateresa Vivaldini, on behalf of the ECR Group, Brigitte van den Berg, on behalf of the Renew Group, Nela Riehl, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Li Andersson, on behalf of The Left Group, Rada Laykova, on behalf of the ESN Group, Jagna Marczułajtis-Walczak, Heléne Fritzon, Pascale Piera, Georgiana Teodorescu, Grégory Allione, Sara Matthieu, Marina Mesure, Diego Solier, Andreas Schwab, Niels Fuglsang, Annamária Vicsek, Marlena Maląg, Hristo Petrov, Benedetta Scuderi, Dario Tamburrano, Pilar del Castillo Vera, Marcos Ros Sempere, Antonella Sberna, Ľudovít Ódor, Rasmus Andresen, Hanna Gedin, Sérgio Humberto, who also answered a blue-card question from João Oliveira, Elisabetta Gualmini, Kris Van Dijck, Billy Kelleher, João Oliveira, Giusi Princi, Tiemo Wölken, Beatrice Timgren, Catarina Martins, Andrea Wechsler, Marit Maij, Tobiasz Bocheński, who also answered a blue-card question from Branislav Ondruš, Arba Kokalari, Johan Danielsson, Paulius Saudargas, Idoia Mendia, Andrzej Buła, Estelle Ceulemans, Axel Voss, Alex Agius Saliba, Esther Herranz García, Marc Angel, Maravillas Abadía Jover, Annalisa Corrado and Bruno Gonçalves.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Hélder Sousa Silva.

IN THE CHAIR: Pina PICIERNO
Vice-President

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Nina Carberry, Nikolina Brnjac, Tomislav Sokol, Maria Grapini, Branislav Ondruš, Grzegorz Braun and Milan Mazurek.

The following spoke: Janusz Wojciechowski.

The debate closed.

4. Abuse of new technologies to manipulate and radicalise young people through hate speech and antidemocratic discourse (debate)

Commission statement: Abuse of new technologies to manipulate and radicalise young people through hate speech and antidemocratic discourse (2024/2887(RSP))

Janusz Wojciechowski (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

The following spoke: Lídia Pereira, on behalf of the PPE Group, Alex Agius Saliba, on behalf of the S&D Group, Jorge Buxadé Villalba, on behalf of the PfE Group, Piotr Müller, on behalf of the ECR Group, Laurence Farreng, on behalf of the Renew Group, Kim Van Sparrentak, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Pernando Barrena Arza, on behalf of The Left Group, Petras Gražulis, on behalf of the ESN Group, Eleonora Meleti, Sabrina Repp, Fabrice Leggeri, Ivaylo Valchev, Hristo Petrov, Alexandra Geese, who also answered a blue-card question from Sebastian Tynkkynen, Ivan David, Milan Mazurek (The President reminded the speaker of the provisions of Rule 10), Zoltán Tarr, Francisco Assis, Susanna Ceccardi, Paolo Inselvini, Irena Joveva, Lena Schilling, Christine Anderson, Ondřej Dostál, Manuela Ripa, Gerolf Annemans, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Jaume Asens Llodrà, Marc Jongen, Łukasz Kohut, Alexandre Varaut, Taner Kabilov, Sebastian Kruis, Tiago Moreira de Sá, who also answered a blue-card question from Bruno Gonçalves, Hermann Tertsch and Mathilde Androuët.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Matej Tonin, Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Sebastian Tynkkynen and Lukas Sieper.

The following spoke: Janusz Wojciechowski.

The debate closed.

(The sitting was suspended for a few moments.)

IN THE CHAIR: Roberta METSOLA
President

5. Resumption of the sitting

The sitting resumed at 12:05.

6. Sakharov Prize 2024 (announcement of the winner)

The President announced that Parliament had decided to award the 2024 Sakharov Prize to María Corina Machado, leader of the democratic forces in Venezuela, and to President-elect Edmundo González Urrutia, representing all Venezuelans fighting to restore freedom and democracy to their country.

7. Request for the waiver of immunity

The competent Lithuanian authorities had sent the President a request for Petras Gražulis’s immunity to be waived in connection with legal proceedings in Lithuania.

Pursuant to Rule 9(1), the request had been referred to the committee responsible, in this case the JURI Committee.

(The sitting was suspended for a few moments.)

IN THE CHAIR: Javi LÓPEZ
Vice-President

8. Resumption of the sitting

The sitting resumed at 12:10.

⁂

The following spoke: Lukas Sieper (the President took due note).

9. Voting time

For detailed results, see also ‘Results of votes’ and ‘Results of roll-call votes’.

9.1. Situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia (vote)

Motions for resolutions RC-B10-0133/2024, B10-0129/2024, B10-0131/2024, B10-0133/2024, B10-0136/2024, B10-0139/2024, B10-0141/2024 and B10-0142/2024 (minutes of 24.10.2024, item I) (2024/2890(RSP))

(Majority of the votes cast)

JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2024)0029)

(Motions for resolutions B10-0129/2024 and B10-0131/2024 fell.)

(‘Results of votes’, item 1)

9.2. People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan (vote)

Motions for resolutions RC-B10-0134/2024, B10-0130/2024, B10-0132/2024, B10-0134/2024, B10-0135/2024, B10-0137/2024, B10-0138/2024 and B10-0140/2024 (minutes of 24.10.2024, item I) (2024/2891(RSP))

(Majority of the votes cast)

JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION

Adopted (P10_TA(2024)0030)

(Motions for resolutions B10-0130/2024 and B10-0132/2024 fell.)

(‘Results of votes’, item 2)

(The sitting was suspended at 12:17.)

IN THE CHAIR: Antonella SBERNA
Vice-President

10. Resumption of the sitting

The sitting resumed at 15:00.

11. Approval of the minutes of the previous sitting

The minutes of the previous sitting were approved.

12. Protecting our oceans: persistent threats to marine protected areas in the EU and benefits for coastal communities (debate)

Commission statement: Protecting our oceans: persistent threats to marine protected areas in the EU and benefits for coastal communities (2024/2888(RSP))

Janusz Wojciechowski (Member of the Commission) made the statement.

The following spoke: Francisco José Millán Mon, on behalf of the PPE Group, Christophe Clergeau, on behalf of the S&D Group, France Jamet, on behalf of the PfE Group, Billy Kelleher, on behalf of the Renew Group, Isabella Lövin, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Emma Fourreau, on behalf of The Left Group, Siegbert Frank Droese, on behalf of the ESN Group, Hélder Sousa Silva, André Rodrigues, André Rougé, Ana Miranda Paz, Per Clausen, Seán Kelly and Thomas Bajada.

The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Niels Geuking, Jean-Marc Germain, Pernando Barrena Arza and Lukas Sieper.

The following spoke: Janusz Wojciechowski.

The debate closed.

13. Explanations of vote

Written explanations of vote

Explanations of vote submitted in writing under Rule 201 appear on the Members’ pages on Parliament’s website.

Oral explanations of vote

13.1. Situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia (RC-B10-0133/2024)

The following spoke: Seán Kelly.

13.2. People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan (RC-B10-0134/2024)

The following spoke: Seán Kelly.

14. Approval of the minutes of the sitting and forwarding of texts adopted

In accordance with Rule 208(3), the minutes of the sitting would be put to the House for approval at the start of the next sitting.

With Parliament’s agreement, the texts adopted during the part-session would be forwarded to their respective addressees without delay.

15. Dates of forthcoming sittings

The next sittings would be held on 13 November 2024 and 14 November 2024.

16. Closure of the sitting

The sitting closed at 15:41.

17. Adjournment of the session

The session of the European Parliament was adjourned.

Alessandro Chiocchetti	Roberta Metsola
Secretary-General	President

LIST OF DOCUMENTS SERVING AS A BASIS FOR THE DEBATES AND DECISIONS OF PARLIAMENT

I. Motions for resolutions tabled

Situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia

Motions for resolutions tabled under Rule 136(2) to wind up the debate:

on the situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia (2024/2890(RSP)) (B10-0129/2024)
Giorgos Georgiou
on behalf of The Left Group

on the situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia (2024/2890(RSP)) (B10-0131/2024)
Tomasz Froelich
on behalf of the ESN

on the situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia (2024/2890(RSP)) (B10-0133/2024)
Sergey Lagodinsky, Ville Niinistö, Maria Ohisalo, Catarina Vieira, Hannah Neumann, Nicolae Ştefănuță, Markéta Gregorová, Michael Bloss, Alice Kuhnke, Isabella Lövin, Pär Holmgren, Marie Toussaint
on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

on the situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia (2024/2980(RSP)) (B10-0136/2024)
Yannis Maniatis, Nacho Sánchez Amor, Udo Bullmann, Raphaël Glucksmann, Francisco Assis
on behalf of the S&D Group

on the situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia (2024/2890(RSP)) (B10-0139/2024)
Nathalie Loiseau, Petras Auštrevičius, Helmut Brandstätter, Benoit Cassart, Olivier Chastel, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Bernard Guetta, Karin Karlsbro, Ľubica Karvašová, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar, Dainius Žalimas
on behalf of the Renew Group

on the situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia (2024/2890(RSP)) (B10-0141/2024)
Rasa Juknevičienė, François-Xavier Bellamy, Michael Gahler, Andrzej Halicki, David McAllister, Sebastião Bugalho, Nicolás Pascual De La Parte, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Daniel Caspary, Loucas Fourlas, Sandra Kalniete, Łukasz Kohut, Andrey Kovatchev, Andrius Kubilius, Miriam Lexmann, Vangelis Meimarakis, Ana Miguel Pedro, Davor Ivo Stier, Michał Szczerba
on behalf of the PPE Group

on the situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia (2024/2890(RSP)) (B10-0142/2024)
Şerban-Dimitrie Sturdza, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Aurelijus Veryga, Claudiu-Richard Târziu, Assita Kanko
on behalf of the ECR Group

Joint motion for a resolution tabled under Rule 136(2) and (4):
on the situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia (2024/2890(RSP)) (RC-B10-0133/2024)
(replacing motions for resolutions B10-0133/2024, B10-0136/2024, B10-0139/2024, B10-0141/2024 and B10-0142/2024)
Rasa Juknevičienė, François-Xavier Bellamy, Michael Gahler, Andrzej Halicki, David McAllister, Sebastião Bugalho, Nicolás Pascual De La Parte, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Daniel Caspary, Loucas Fourlas, Sandra Kalniete, Łukasz Kohut, Andrey Kovatchev, Andrius Kubilius, Miriam Lexmann, Vangelis Meimarakis, Ana Miguel Pedro, Davor Ivo Stier, Michał Szczerba
on behalf of the PPE Group
Yannis Maniatis, Nacho Sánchez Amor, Raphaël Glucksmann, Udo Bullmann, Matthias Ecke, Francisco Assis
on behalf of the S&D Group
Emmanouil Fragkos, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Assita Kanko, Marion Maréchal, Aurelijus Veryga, Geadis Geadi, Rihards Kols, Bert-Jan Ruissen, Charlie Weimers
on behalf of the ECR Group
Nathalie Loiseau, Petras Auštrevičius, Helmut Brandstätter, Benoit Cassart, Olivier Chastel, Bernard Guetta, Karin Karlsbro, Ľubica Karvašová, Moritz Körner, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar, Dainius Žalimas
on behalf of the Renew Group
Sergey Lagodinsky
on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan

Motions for resolutions tabled under Rule 136(2) to wind up the debate:

on the People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan (2024/2891(RSP)) (B10-0130/2024)
Danilo Della Valle
on behalf of The Left Group

on the People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan (2024/2891(RSP)) (B10-0132/2024)
Petr Bystron, Hans Neuhoff
on behalf of the ESN

on the People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of UN Resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan (2024/2891(RSP)) (B10-0134/2024)
Markéta Gregorová, Ville Niinistö, Maria Ohisalo, Hannah Neumann, Diana Riba i Giner, Nicolae Ştefănuță, Erik Marquardt
on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

on the People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan (2024/2891(RSP)) (B10-0135/2024)
Engin Eroglu, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Helmut Brandstätter, Dan Barna, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, João Cotrim De Figueiredo, Bernard Guetta, Svenja Hahn, Nathalie Loiseau, Ľubica Karvašová, Karin Karlsbro, Ana Vasconcelos, Lucia Yar, Dainius Žalimas
on behalf of the Renew Group

on the People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan (2024/2891(RSP)) (B10-0137/2024)
Yannis Maniatis, Kathleen Van Brempt, Tonino Picula
on behalf of the S&D Group

on People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan (2024/2891(RSP)) (B10-0138/2024)
Adam Bielan, Charlie Weimers, Bert-Jan Ruissen, Mariusz Kamiński, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Michał Dworczyk, Carlo Fidanza, Alexandr Vondra, Alberico Gambino, Rihards Kols, Reinis Pozņaks, Ondřej Krutílek, Veronika Vrecionová, Assita Kanko, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński
on behalf of the ECR Group

on the People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan (2024/2891(RSP)) (B10-0140/2024)
Miriam Lexmann, Sebastião Bugalho, Rasa Juknevičienė, Danuše Nerudová
on behalf of the PPE Group

Joint motion for a resolution tabled under Rule 136(2) and (4):
on the misinterpretation of UN resolution 2758 by the People’s Republic of China and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan (2024/2891(RSP)) (RC-B10-0134/2024)
(replacing motions for resolutions B10-0134/2024, B10-0135/2024, B10-0137/2024, B10-0138/2024 and B10-0140/2024)
Michael Gahler, Miriam Lexmann, Sebastião Bugalho, Rasa Juknevičienė, Danuše Nerudová
on behalf of the PPE Group
Yannis Maniatis, Kathleen Van Brempt, Tonino Picula
on behalf of the S&D Group
Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, Adam Bielan, Mariusz Kamiński, Charlie Weimers, Michał Dworczyk, Alexandr Vondra, Veronika Vrecionová, Ondřej Krutílek, Rihards Kols, Maciej Wąsik, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Alberico Gambino, Bert-Jan Ruissen, Carlo Fidanza
on behalf of the ECR Group
Engin Eroglu, Petras Auštrevičius, Helmut Brandstätter, Dan Barna, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, João Cotrim De Figueiredo, Bernard Guetta, Svenja Hahn, Ľubica Karvašová, Karin Karlsbro, Moritz Körner, Nathalie Loiseau, Jan-Christoph Oetjen, Ana Vasconcelos, Dainius Žalimas
on behalf of the Renew Group
Markéta Gregorová
on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

II. Petitions

Petitions Nos 1126-24 to 1190-24 had been entered in the register on 18 October 2024 and had been forwarded to the committee responsible, in accordance with Rule 232(9) and (10).

The President had, on 18 October 2024, forwarded to the committee responsible, in accordance with Rule 232(15), petitions addressed to the European Parliament by natural or legal persons who were not citizens of the European Union and who did not reside, or have their registered office, in a Member State.

III. Documents received

The following documents had been submitted by Members:

– Mathilde Androuët, Jordan Bardella, Nikola Bartůšek, Marie-Luce Brasier-Clain, Markus Buchheit, Valérie Deloge, Elisabeth Dieringer, Anne-Sophie Frigout, Jean-Paul Garraud, Roman Haider, France Jamet, Virginie Joron, Julien Leonardelli, Aleksandar Nikolic, Philippe Olivier, Gilles Pennelle, Pascale Piera, Pierre Pimpie, Julie Rechagneux, André Rougé, Julien Sanchez, Malika Sorel, Rody Tolassy, António Tânger Corrêa, Matthieu Valet, Tom Vandendriessche, Roberto Vannacci and Alexandre Varaut. Motion for a resolution on the surge in the number of sub-Saharan migrants (B10-0065/2024)
referred to committee responsible: LIBE
opinion: DEVE

– Virginie Joron. Motion for a resolution on the creation of a European fund, financed by the extraordinary profits from ‘COVID-19 vaccines’, to compensate victims and to finance research into the treatment of long COVID and its persistent side-effects (B10-0067/2024)
referred to committee responsible: ENVI
opinion: BUDG

– João Oliveira. Motion for a resolution on solutions to the housing crisis (B10-0068/2024)
referred to committee responsible: EMPL
opinion: ECON

– Beatrice Timgren. Motion for a resolution on the audit of green investments in light of Northvolt developments (B10-0069/2024)
referred to committee responsible: CONT
opinion: ENVI

– Charlie Weimers. Motion for a resolution on limiting the freedom of movement for serious criminals (B10-0075/2024)
referred to committee responsible: LIBE

– Dick Erixon. Motion for a resolution on design and concept flaws of new own resources (B10-0076/2024)
referred to committee responsible: BUDG

– Marie-Luce Brasier-Clain and Catherine Griset. Motion for a resolution on Pink October (B10-0087/2024)
referred to committee responsible: ENVI

ATTENDANCE REGISTER

Present:

Aaltola Mika, Abadía Jover Maravillas, Adamowicz Magdalena, Aftias Georgios, Agirregoitia Martínez Oihane, Agius Peter, Agius Saliba Alex, Alexandraki Galato, Allione Grégory, Al-Sahlani Abir, Anadiotis Nikolaos, Anderson Christine, Andersson Li, Andresen Rasmus, Andrews Barry, Andriukaitis Vytenis Povilas, Androuët Mathilde, Angel Marc, Annemans Gerolf, Antoci Giuseppe, Arimont Pascal, Arłukowicz Bartosz, Arnaoutoglou Sakis, Arndt Anja, Arvanitis Konstantinos, Asens Llodrà Jaume, Assis Francisco, Attard Daniel, Aubry Manon, Axinia Adrian-George, Azmani Malik, Bajada Thomas, Baljeu Jeannette, Ballarín Cereza Laura, Bardella Jordan, Barna Dan, Barrena Arza Pernando, Bartulica Stephen Nikola, Bartůšek Nikola, Bausemer Arno, Bay Nicolas, Bay Christophe, Beleris Fredis, Bellamy François-Xavier, Benea Adrian-Dragoş, Benifei Brando, Benjumea Benjumea Isabel, Bentele Hildegard, Berendsen Tom, Berger Stefan, Berlato Sergio, Bernhuber Alexander, Biedroń Robert, Bielan Adam, Bischoff Gabriele, Blaha Ľuboš, Blom Rachel, Bloss Michael, Bocheński Tobiasz, Boeselager Damian, Bonaccini Stefano, Bonte Barbara, Borchia Paolo, Borrás Pabón Mireia, Borvendég Zsuzsanna, Borzan Biljana, Bosanac Gordan, Boßdorf Irmhild, Bosse Stine, Botenga Marc, Boyer Gilles, Boylan Lynn, Brandstätter Helmut, Brasier-Clain Marie-Luce, Braun Grzegorz, Brejza Krzysztof, Bricmont Saskia, Brnjac Nikolina, Bryłka Anna, Buczek Tomasz, Buda Waldemar, Budka Borys, Bugalho Sebastião, Buła Andrzej, Burkhardt Delara, Buxadé Villalba Jorge, Bystron Petr, Bžoch Jaroslav, Camara Mélissa, Canfin Pascal, Carberry Nina, Carême Damien, Casa David, Caspary Daniel, Cassart Benoit, Castillo Laurent, del Castillo Vera Pilar, Cavazzini Anna, Cavedagna Stefano, Ceccardi Susanna, Cepeda José, Ceulemans Estelle, Chahim Mohammed, Chaibi Leila, Chastel Olivier, Chinnici Caterina, Christensen Asger, Cifrová Ostrihoňová Veronika, Ciriani Alessandro, Cisint Anna Maria, Clausen Per, Clergeau Christophe, Cormand David, Corrado Annalisa, Costanzo Vivien, Cotrim De Figueiredo João, Cowen Barry, Cremer Tobias, Crosetto Giovanni, Cunha Paulo, Dahl Henrik, Danielsson Johan, Dauchy Marie, Dávid Dóra, David Ivan, Decaro Antonio, de la Hoz Quintano Raúl, Della Valle Danilo, Deloge Valérie, De Masi Fabio, De Meo Salvatore, Demirel Özlem, Deutsch Tamás, Dibrani Adnan, Diepeveen Ton, Dieringer Elisabeth, Dîncu Vasile, Disdier Mélanie, Dobrev Klára, Doherty Regina, Doleschal Christian, Dömötör Csaba, Dorfmann Herbert, Dostalova Klara, Dostál Ondřej, Droese Siegbert Frank, Düpont Lena, Dworczyk Michał, Ehler Christian, Ehlers Marieke, Eriksson Sofie, Erixon Dick, Eroglu Engin, Everding Sebastian, Ezcurra Almansa Alma, Falcone Marco, Farantouris Nikolas, Farreng Laurence, Farský Jan, Ferber Markus, Ferenc Viktória, Fidanza Carlo, Fiocchi Pietro, Firmenich Ruth, Fita Claire, Fourlas Loucas, Fourreau Emma, Fragkos Emmanouil, Freund Daniel, Frigout Anne-Sophie, Friis Sigrid, Fritzon Heléne, Froelich Tomasz, Fuglsang Niels, Funchion Kathleen, Furet Angéline, Gahler Michael, Gál Kinga, Galán Estrella, Gálvez Lina, García Hermida-Van Der Walle Raquel, Garraud Jean-Paul, Gasiuk-Pihowicz Kamila, Geadi Geadis, Gedin Hanna, Geese Alexandra, Geier Jens, Gemma Chiara, Gerbrandy Gerben-Jan, Germain Jean-Marc, Gerzsenyi Gabriella, Geuking Niels, Gieseke Jens, Giménez Larraz Borja, Girauta Vidal Juan Carlos, Glavak Sunčana, Glucksmann Raphaël, Goerens Charles, Gomes Isilda, Gonçalves Bruno, Gonçalves Sérgio, González Casares Nicolás, González Pons Esteban, Gori Giorgio, Gosiewska Małgorzata, Gotink Dirk, Gozi Sandro, Grapini Maria, Gražulis Petras, Griset Catherine, Gronkiewicz-Waltz Hanna, Grossmann Elisabeth, Gualmini Elisabetta, Guetta Bernard, Guzenina Maria, Gyürk András, Hahn Svenja, Haider Roman, Halicki Andrzej, Hansen Niels Flemming, Hassan Rima, Häusling Martin, Hava Mircea-Gheorghe, Hazekamp Anja, Heide Hannes, Heinäluoma Eero, Herbst Niclas, Herranz García Esther, Hetman Krzysztof, Hohlmeier Monika, Hojsík Martin, Holmgren Pär, Hölvényi György, Humberto Sérgio, Ijabs Ivars, Imart Céline, Incir Evin, Inselvini Paolo, Iovanovici Şoşoacă Diana, Jaki Patryk, Jalloul Muro Hana, Jamet France, Jarubas Adam, Jerković Romana, Jongen Marc, Joński Dariusz, Joron Virginie, Jouvet Pierre, Joveva Irena, Juknevičienė Rasa, Junco García Nora, Jungbluth Alexander, Kabilov Taner, Kalfon François, Kaliňák Erik, Kalniete Sandra, Kamiński Mariusz, Kanev Radan, Kanko Assita, Karlsbro Karin, Kartheiser Fernand, Karvašová Ľubica, Katainen Elsi, Kefalogiannis Emmanouil, Kelleher Billy, Keller Fabienne, Kelly Seán, Kennes Rudi, Khan Mary, Kircher Sophia, Knafo Sarah, Knotek Ondřej, Kobosko Michał, Köhler Stefan, Kohut Łukasz, Kokalari Arba, Kolář Ondřej, Kollár Kinga, Kols Rihards, Konečná Kateřina, Kopacz Ewa, Körner Moritz, Kountoura Elena, Kovatchev Andrey, Krah Maximilian, Krištopans Vilis, Kruis Sebastian, Krutílek Ondřej, Kubilius Andrius, Kubín Tomáš, Kuhnke Alice, Kulja András Tivadar, Kulmuni Katri, Lagodinsky Sergey, Lakos Eszter, Lange Bernd, Laššáková Judita, László András, Latinopoulou Afroditi, Laurent Murielle, Laureti Camilla, Laykova Rada, Lazarov Ilia, Lazarus Luis-Vicențiu, Le Callennec Isabelle, Leggeri Fabrice, Lenaers Jeroen, Leonardelli Julien, Lewandowski Janusz, Lexmann Miriam, Liese Peter, Lins Norbert, Lopatka Reinhold, López Javi, López Aguilar Juan Fernando, Lövin Isabella, Lucano Mimmo, Luena César, Łukacijewska Elżbieta Katarzyna, Lupo Giuseppe, McAllister David, Madison Jaak, Maestre Cristina, Magoni Lara, Maij Marit, Maląg Marlena, Mandl Lukas, Maniatis Yannis, Maran Pierfrancesco, Marczułajtis-Walczak Jagna, Maréchal Marion, Mariani Thierry, Marino Ignazio Roberto, Marquardt Erik, Martín Frías Jorge, Martins Catarina, Marzà Ibáñez Vicent, Matthieu Sara, Mavrides Costas, Mayer Georg, Mazurek Milan, McNamara Michael, Mebarek Nora, Meimarakis Vangelis, Meleti Eleonora, Mendes Ana Catarina, Mendia Idoia, Mertens Verena, Mesure Marina, Metsola Roberta, Metz Tilly, Mikser Sven, Millán Mon Francisco José, Minchev Nikola, Miranda Paz Ana, Montero Irene, Montserrat Dolors, Morace Carolina, Morano Nadine, Moreira de Sá Tiago, Moreno Sánchez Javier, Moretti Alessandra, Mularczyk Arkadiusz, Müller Piotr, Mullooly Ciaran, Mureşan Siegfried, Muşoiu Ştefan, Nagyová Jana, Negrescu Victor, Nerudová Danuše, Nesci Denis, Neumann Hannah, Nevado del Campo Elena, Niebler Angelika, Niinistö Ville, Nikolaou-Alavanos Lefteris, Nikolic Aleksandar, Ní Mhurchú Cynthia, Noichl Maria, Nordqvist Rasmus, Novakov Andrey, Nykiel Mirosława, Obajtek Daniel, Ódor Ľudovít, Ohisalo Maria, Oliveira João, Olivier Philippe, Omarjee Younous, Ondruš Branislav, Ó Ríordáin Aodhán, Orlando Leoluca, Ozdoba Jacek, Paet Urmas, Pajín Leire, Palmisano Valentina, Papadakis Kostas, Papandreou Nikos, Pappas Nikos, Paulus Jutta, Pedro Ana Miguel, Pedulla’ Gaetano, Pellerin-Carlin Thomas, Peltier Guillaume, Pennelle Gilles, Pereira Lídia, Pérez Alvise, Peter-Hansen Kira Marie, Petrov Hristo, Picaro Michele, Picierno Pina, Picula Tonino, Piera Pascale, Piperea Gheorghe, Pokorná Jermanová Jaroslava, Polato Daniele, Polfjärd Jessica, Pozņaks Reinis, Prebilič Vladimir, Princi Giusi, Protas Jacek, Pürner Friedrich, Rackete Carola, Radtke Dennis, Rafowicz Emma, Ratas Jüri, Razza Ruggero, Rechagneux Julie, Regner Evelyn, Repasi René, Repp Sabrina, Reuten Thijs, Riba i Giner Diana, Ricci Matteo, Riehl Nela, Ripa Manuela, Rodrigues André, Ros Sempere Marcos, Roth Neveďalová Katarína, Rougé André, Ruissen Bert-Jan, Ruotolo Sandro, Rzońca Bogdan, Saeidi Arash, Salini Massimiliano, Salis Ilaria, Salla Aura, Sánchez Amor Nacho, Sanchez Julien, Sancho Murillo Elena, Saramo Jussi, Sargiacomo Eric, Satouri Mounir, Saudargas Paulius, Sbai Majdouline, Sberna Antonella, Schaldemose Christel, Schenk Oliver, Scheuring-Wielgus Joanna, Schieder Andreas, Schilling Lena, Schneider Christine, Schwab Andreas, Scuderi Benedetta, Seekatz Ralf, Sell Alexander, Serrano Sierra Rosa, Serra Sánchez Isabel, Sidl Günther, Sienkiewicz Bartłomiej, Sieper Lukas, Singer Christine, Sippel Birgit, Sjöstedt Jonas, Śmiszek Krzysztof, Smith Anthony, Smit Sander, Sokol Tomislav, Solier Diego, Solís Pérez Susana, Sommen Liesbet, Sonneborn Martin, Sorel Malika, Sousa Silva Hélder, Squarta Marco, Stancanelli Raffaele, Steger Petra, Stier Davor Ivo, Storm Kristoffer, Stöteler Sebastiaan, Stoyanov Stanislav, Strada Cecilia, Streit Joachim, Strik Tineke, Strolenberg Anna, Sturdza Şerban-Dimitrie, Stürgkh Anna, Szczerba Michał, Szekeres Pál, Szydło Beata, Tamburrano Dario, Tânger Corrêa António, Tarczyński Dominik, Tarquinio Marco, Tarr Zoltán, Tavares Carla, Tegethoff Kai, Temido Marta, Teodorescu Georgiana, Ter Laak Ingeborg, Terras Riho, Tertsch Hermann, Timgren Beatrice, Tinagli Irene, Tobback Bruno, Tobé Tomas, Tolassy Rody, Tomašič Zala, Tomaszewski Waldemar, Tomc Romana, Tonin Matej, Toom Jana, Topo Raffaele, Torselli Francesco, Tosi Flavio, Toussaint Marie, Tovaglieri Isabella, Tridico Pasquale, Trochu Laurence, Tsiodras Dimitris, Turek Filip, Tynkkynen Sebastian, Uhrík Milan, Ušakovs Nils, Valchev Ivaylo, Vălean Adina, Valet Matthieu, Van Brempt Kathleen, Van Brug Anouk, van den Berg Brigitte, Vandendriessche Tom, Van Dijck Kris, Van Lanschot Reinier, Van Leeuwen Jessika, Vannacci Roberto, Van Sparrentak Kim, Varaut Alexandre, Vasconcelos Ana, Vautmans Hilde, Vedrenne Marie-Pierre, Ventola Francesco, Verheyen Sabine, Veryga Aurelijus, Vešligaj Marko, Vicsek Annamária, Vieira Catarina, Vilimsky Harald, Vincze Loránt, Virkkunen Henna, Vivaldini Mariateresa, Volgin Petar, von der Schulenburg Michael, Vondra Alexandr, Voss Axel, Vozemberg-Vrionidi Elissavet, Vrecionová Veronika, Vázquez Lázara Adrián, Waitz Thomas, Walsh Maria, Walsmann Marion, Warborn Jörgen, Warnke Jan-Peter, Wąsik Maciej, Wawrykiewicz Michał, Wcisło Marta, Wechsler Andrea, Werbrouck Séverine, Wiesner Emma, Wiezik Michal, Wilmès Sophie, Winkler Iuliu, Wiseler-Lima Isabel, Wiśniewska Jadwiga, Wölken Tiemo, Yar Lucia, Yon-Courtin Stéphanie, Yoncheva Elena, Zacharia Maria, Zajączkowska-Hernik Ewa, Zalewska Anna, Žalimas Dainius, Zarzalejos Javier, Zdechovský Tomáš, Zdrojewski Bogdan Andrzej, Złotowski Kosma, Zoido Álvarez Juan Ignacio, Zovko Željana, Zver Milan

Excused:

Gómez López Sandra, Homs Ginel Alicia, Lalucq Aurore

MIL OSI Europe News –

January 25, 2025

MIL-OSI Europe: Study – Maximising the Impact of EU Initiatives on Skills – 25-10-2024

Source: European Parliament

This study provides details of the current situation and future trends in the EU concerning aspects related to skills demands, skills shortages, and skills mismatches. It takes into consideration the transformative role of the digital and green transitions and the labour market shifts determined by demographic changes. The analysis comprises a presentation of the various EU skills initiatives, assessing their impact, complementarity and gaps. And formulates a set of recommendations to address gaps identified in the EU skills policy. This document was provided by Fondazione Giacomo Brodolini to the Policy Department for Economic, Scientific and Quality of Life Policies at the request of the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs (EMPL).

External author

Terence HOGARTH, Ioan – Cristinel RAILEANU, Costanza PAGNINI & Giancarlo DENTE,

MIL OSI Europe News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: The Novosibirsk Academpark hosted the NSU School Technical Forum

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

The NSU School Technical Forum is an annual event for all those who are passionate about robotics and engineering design. The forum is held for the 8th year in a row, traditionally organized by NSU with the support of the Novosibirsk Academpark.

— This year, the number of teams participating in the tournament has grown to 134. For comparison: last year there were 123. The guys came from Novosibirsk, Altai Krai, the science city of Koltsovo, Iskitim, Kemerovo and other cities. Many people also took part in the LOGO programming Olympiad, which was held in SUNC NSU. This year, 15 teams competed, which is 45 people, said Elena Vishnevskaya, organizer of the NSU school technical forum.

The goal of the forum is to promote the development of career guidance engineering areas in the system of general and additional education. The forum is aimed at uniting the efforts of teachers, university professors and representatives of high-tech businesses to prepare future engineers.

The forum’s motto “Here you can see the future” is fully confirmed, because only here you can watch the regional qualifying competitions of the RoboCup championship and the open regional youth competitions “Robointel-2.0”, take part in the competition of creative projects of schoolchildren and the Olympiad in LOGO programming for grades 4-7. For the first time, a hackathon on quadcopters was held as part of the event, organized by NSU Advanced Engineering SchoolAt the intensive course, the kids were taught how to program and launch drones.

RoboCup is the most authoritative and annual robotics event in the world. The competition has been held since 1997 to develop robotics and research in the field of artificial intelligence through a spectacular and at the same time technically complex competition. In 10 minutes, the team must bring robots to the stage, demonstrate them and take them away. This year, the team “Quantiki” from the children’s technopark “Quantorium” won in the RoboCupJunior Soccer Rules nomination. The guys demonstrated a unique theatrical robotics performance inspired by the ancient Chinese legend of the Black Dragon.

“Our dragon is the embodiment of our dream. It weighs about 10 kg, we developed it for about a year. The skeleton is assembled from the EV-3 construction set, and the motor is made from the more reliable Tetrix construction set,” explained Anastasia Prytkova, a member of the Quantum team.

— Our team took third place at the Open Russian Robotics Championship “RoboCap Russia – 2024”, which was held from September 12 to 15 in Tomsk. We prepared hard, everyone was very nervous before the performance, and, of course, we are very happy that we took first place, — shared Maxim Kabelin, mentor of the “Quantica” team.

The organizers plan to hold “Fun Races” next year as part of the spring session of the NSU Sports Faculty.

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 –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: RELEASE: DCCA DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS (Through September 2024)

Source: US State of Hawaii

RELEASE: DCCA DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS (Through September 2024)

Posted on Oct 24, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS

KA ʻOIHANA PILI KĀLEPA

Office of Administrative Hearings

JOSH GREEN, M.D.

GOVERNOR | KIAʻĀINA

NADINE Y. ANDO

DIRECTOR

KA LUNA | HOʻOKELE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 24, 2024

DCCA DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS

(Through September 2024)

HONOLULU – The state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) and its respective state Boards and Commissions released a summary of disciplinary actions through the month of September 2024, taken on individuals and entities with professional and vocational licenses in Hawai‘i. These disciplinary actions include dispositions based upon either the results of contested case hearings or settlement agreements submitted by the parties. Respondents enter into settlement agreements as a compromise to claims and to conserve on the expenses of proceeding with an administrative hearing.

The DCCA and the Boards and Commissions are responsible for ensuring those with professional and vocational licenses are performing up to the standards prescribed by state law.

BOARD OF NURSING

Respondent:       Kimberly A. Simmons (Maui)

Case Number:     RNS 2022-890-L

Sanction:             $1,000 fine

Effective Date:     9-5-24

RICO alleges that in July 2022, RICO received a complaint concerning Respondent’s conduct, and that Respondent received notice of RICO’s investigation in 2022 and failed to notify the Board of the ongoing RICO investigation in her 2023 renewal application, in potential violation of HRS §§ 436B-19(9), 457-12(a)(6) and 457-12(a)(11). (Board approved Settlement Agreement.)

BOARD OF PSYCHOLOGY

Respondent:      Kathryn L. Lapierre

Case Number:     PHA 2024-0001-L

Sanction:             $1,500 fine

Effective Date:    8-30-24

RICO alleges that Respondent was served with a complaint by the state of Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services, Division of Legal Services and Compliance on September 25, 2019, Respondent indicated “No” to the question “Are there any disciplinary actions pending against you in this state or any other jurisdiction” on her July 22, 2020 renewal application, the state of Wisconsin disciplined Respondent on September 16, 2020, and Respondent failed to timely notify the Board of the disciplinary action, in potential violation of HRS §§ 465-13(a)(19), 436B-19(5), 436B-19(13), 436B-19(15) and 436B-19(17). (Board approved Settlement Agreement.)

BOARD OF PHYSICAL THERAPY

Respondent:      Laura J. Romig

Case Number:     PTS 2023-3-L

Sanction:             6-month license suspension, complete 30 CC units

Effective Date:    9-10-24

The Board adopted the Hearings Officer’s recommended decision and found and concluded that Respondent violated HRS §§ 461J-10.1(a), 461J-10.15(a), 461J-10.15(b), 461J-10.15(c) and 461J-12(a)(7). (Board’s Final Order after contested case hearing.)

Respondent:      Joy T. D. Yanai

Case Number:     PTS 2023-6-L

Sanction:             $500

Effective Date:    9-10-24

The Board adopted the Hearings Officer’s recommended decision and found and concluded that Respondent violated HRS § 436B-19(11). (Board’s Final Order after contested case hearing.)

BOARD OF MASSAGE THERAPY

Respondents:      Thananya Owens and Healthland, LLC dba Siam Thai Massage and Spa

Case Number:     MAS 2024-55-L

Sanction:             $1,000 fine

Effective Date:    9-17-24

RICO alleges that on May 24, 2024, RICO investigators conducted an unannounced site inspection and Respondents admitted that an unlicensed massage therapist was currently engaging in massage therapist activity for compensation, and that RICO investigators observed Respondents did not conspicuously display their current massage therapists’ and establishment’s licenses, in potential violation of HRS §§ 452-24(a)(1), 452-24(a)(4), 452-24(a)(6), and HAR §§ 16-84-15(c) and 16-84-15(f). (Board approved Settlement Agreement.)

Respondents:      Mareena Trinnaman and Saitara Thai Massage, LLC

Case Number:     MAS 2024-15-L

Sanction:             $2,000 fine

Effective Date:     9-17-24

RICO alleges that on February 22, 2024, RICO investigators conducted a site inspection and observed that several unlicensed massage therapists were engaging in massage therapy activities, in potential violation of HRS §§ 452-24(a)(1) and 452-24(a)(6), and HAR § 16-84-11(b). (Board approved Settlement Agreement.)

BOARD OF CHIROPRACTIC

Respondent:      Dustin R. Craft

Case Number:     CHI 2020-0020-L

Sanction:             License revocation

Effective Date:     9-11-24

On March 11, 2024, the Board approved a Settlement Agreement between Respondent and RICO. The Board finds Respondent failed to comply with the terms of the Settlement Agreement. (Board’s Final Order for Noncompliance with Settlement Agreement.)

BEHAVIOR ANALYST PROGRAM

Respondent:      Kevin Abella (Hawaiʻi)

Case Number:     BEH 2024-3-L

Sanction:             $500 fine

Effective Date:    9-26-24

RICO alleges that the Disciplinary Appeal Committee of the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) disciplined Respondent on January 22, 2024, finding Respondent violated subsections 1.02, 1.15, 4.01, 4.04, and 4.05, in potential violation of HRS § 465D-11(a)(7). (Director approved Settlement Agreement.)

ATHLETIC TRAINERS PROGRAM

Respondent:        Sadie Sewell

Case Number:     APT 2023-1-L

Sanction:             $500 fine

Effective Date:     9-24-24

RICO alleges that Respondent was disciplined by the Board of Certification on April 12, 2023, based on Respondent’s failure to comply with a continuing education audit, and that Respondent failed to report the disciplinary action to the program, in potential violation of HRS §§ 436B-19(9), 436B-19(15), and 436H-8(a). (Director approved Settlement Agreement.)

BOARD OF PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS, ARCHITECTS, SURVEYORS, AND LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS

Respondent:      William W. Wong

Case Number:     ENG 2022-10-L

Sanction:             License revocation, $6,000 fine

Effective Date:    8-08-24

The Board adopted the Hearings Officer’s recommended decision as modified by stipulation of the parties and found and concluded that Respondent violated HRS §§ 436B-19(8), (11), and (14), and 464-10, and HAR 16-115-10(5). (Board’s Final Order after contested case hearing.)

REAL ESTATE COMMISSION

Respondent:       Jon E. McElvaney (Hawaiʻi)

Case Number:     REC 2022-273-L

Sanction:             License revocation, voluntary lifetime surrender of license

Effective Date:     9-27-24

RICO filed a Petition for Disciplinary Action on May 6, 2024, alleging Respondent violated HRS §§ 436B-19(12) and 436B-19(14). (Commission approved Settlement Agreement After Filing of Petition for Disciplinary Action.)

Respondent:       Hawaiiana Management Company, Ltd.

Case Number:     REC 2024-184-L

Sanction:             $1,500 fine

Effective Date:     9-27-24

RICO alleges that RICO received a complaint alleging a unit owner emailed Respondent a written Request for Condominium Association Records on March 4, 2024, that fulfillment of the request took longer than 30 days without a proper response by Respondent for the delay, and that Respondent did not provide an estimated cost or necessary affidavit until after 30 days from the request, in potential violation of HRS §§ 514B-154.5(c) and 467-1.6(a). (Commission approved Settlement Agreement.)

Copies of the decisions are available online at: http://cca.hawaii.gov/oah/oah_decisions/

BusinessCheck is an online platform designed to serve as a comprehensive resource for researching licensed professionals. This tool empowers users to verify licenses, review complaint histories and discover when a business was established, all in one place. Please visit businesscheck.hawaii.gov to verify a professional’s license status, confirming their qualifications, compliance with regulations and accountability to a governing body.

# # #

Media Contact:

William Nhieu

Communications Officer

Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs

[email protected]

Office: 808-586-7582

MIL OSI USA News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: NEWS RELEASE: PRIORITIZE CYBER PROTECTION THIS OCTOBER DURING CYBERSECURITY AWARENESS MONTH
Source: US State of Hawaii

NEWS RELEASE: PRIORITIZE CYBER PROTECTION THIS OCTOBER DURING CYBERSECURITY AWARENESS MONTH

Posted on Oct 24, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS
KA ʻOIHANA PILI KĀLEPA

JOSH GREEN, M.D.
GOVERNOR | KIAʻĀINA

NADINE Y. ANDO
DIRECTOR
KA LUNA | HOʻOKELE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 24, 2024

PRIORITIZE CYBER PROTECTION THIS OCTOBER DURING CYBERSECURITY AWARENESS MONTH

HONOLULU – Cybersecurity Awareness Month, established nearly two decades ago by the President of the United States and U.S. Congress, serves as a vital reminder for public and private sectors to collaborate in promoting cybersecurity awareness. The state of Hawai‘i Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) is proud to join this initiative by providing resources and tools to help small businesses secure their financial futures, as well as safeguard the security of Hawai‘i’s consumers.

As reliance on digital communication grows and businesses begin to maintain more detailed pieces of information of their customers, so do the risks associated with storing critical consumer financial and health information electronically. High-profile data breaches have demonstrated that the potential for cybercriminals to disrupt businesses and compromise public safety is alarmingly high. In response, state and federal regulators are intensifying efforts to bolster defenses against these attacks.

These threats can originate from a variety of sources, including nation-states, cybercriminals, even company insiders—both intentional and accidental. Cybercriminals aim to gain political, military, or economic advantages by stealing valuable data, such as credit card numbers, health records, personal identification information, as well as tax returns.

Cyber risks often include identity theft, data breaches, malware, business interruption as a result of a network shutdown, theft of valuable digital assets and business trade secrets, damage to the company’s reputation, lawsuits, and costs associated with damage from cyber-attacks.

To help enhance cybersecurity and protect from intrusion, businesses, individuals, and entities are recommended to:
- Conduct a security and risk assessment. Identify what needs protection, evaluate existing safeguards and pinpoint any gaps. Additionally, develop a comprehensive protection plan for your data, operational information and client data.
- Update your security software. Install the latest security software, web browser and operating system to defend against viruses and malware. Additionally, set your security software to scan after every update.
- Implement firewall protection on all internet networks. Utilize firewalls, a set of related programs that prevent outsiders from accessing data on a private network, to safeguard your network and operating systems. Remote employees should also ensure that their home systems are secured.
- Implement cybersecurity procedures and training for employees. Educate staff on cybersecurity best practices, including safe social media usage, recognizing phishing attempts and the dangers of public Wi-Fi. Additionally, limit employee access, as needed, to websites, sensitive data and software installation.
- Consider cybersecurity insurance. If your business has a disaster recovery plan, consider integrating cybersecurity as a part of it. Additionally, testing your systems, such as through internal phishing campaigns, can help identify the company’s vulnerabilities.
- Back up important business data regularly. Ensure critical business data, including financial and human resources files, is backed up consistently. This may include but is not limited to word processing documents, electronic spreadsheets, databases, and accounts receivable/payable files. Implement measures such as regular password changes and two-factor authentication.
The internet offers unprecedented opportunities to connect with new and larger markets and enhance operational efficiency. Regardless of whether one is adopting cloud computing or simply using email, cybersecurity should always remain at the forefront.

For more resources on internet safety and security, visit https://cca.hawaii.gov/broadband/for-consumers/internet-safety-and-security/.

# # #

Media Contact:

William Nhieu

Communications Officer

Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs

[email protected]

Office: 808-586-7582

MIL OSI USA News –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: News Release – DOH Shuts Down Kat’s Kau Kau Moʻopuna Style
Source: US State of Hawaii

News Release – DOH Shuts Down Kat’s Kau Kau Moʻopuna Style

Posted on Oct 24, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
KA ʻOIHANA OLAKINO

JOSH GREEN, M.D.
GOVERNOR
KE KIA‘ĀINA

KENNETH S. FINK, MD, MGA, MPH
DIRECTOR
KA LUNA HO‘OKELE

DOH SHUTS DOWN KAT’S KAU KAU MOʻOPUNA STYLE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 23, 2024 24-139

KAILUA-KONA, Hawaiʻi — The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) Food Safety Branch issued a red “closed” placard and immediately shut down Kat’s Kau Kau Moʻopuna Style on Oct. 22, 2024 due to a lack of an operational handwashing sink within the facility. The establishment, located at Mile Marker 106, Māmalahoa Hwy. in Kailua-Kona, is operated by Makaio Holdings LLC.

During a routine inspection conducted on Oct. 22, 2024, the DOH inspector noted the following:
- The one handwashing sink located in the mobile establishment was unable to dispense water.
DOH is requiring the food establishment to take the following corrective actions:
- Repair the handwashing sink to operational status.
The establishment shall remain closed for business until the handwashing sink is repaired and a follow-up inspection by the DOH has been conducted. The operator will contact DOH for a follow-up inspection when the sink has been repaired.

The DOH Food Safety Branch protects and promotes the health of Hawai‘i residents and visitors through education of food industry workers and regulation of food establishments statewide. The branch conducts routine health inspections of food establishments where food products are prepared, manufactured, distributed or sold.

The branch also investigates sources of foodborne illnesses and potential adulteration. It is also responsible for mitigating the effects of these incidents to prevent any future occurrences. The DOH food safety specialists strive to work with business owners, food service workers and the food industry to ensure safe food preparation practices and sanitary conditions.

For more information on the department’s placarding program go to the Food Safety Branch website.

# # #

Media Contact:

Kristen Wong

Information Specialist

Hawaiʻi State Department of Health

808-586-4407

[email protected]

MIL OSI USA News –
January 25, 2025

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RELEASE: DCCA DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS (Through September 2024)

NEWS RELEASE: PRIORITIZE CYBER PROTECTION THIS OCTOBER DURING CYBERSECURITY AWARENESS MONTH

News Release – DOH Shuts Down Kat’s Kau Kau Moʻopuna Style

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Union Health Minister, Shri J P Nadda Presides over 53rd Foundation Day Celebrations and Convocation of University College of Medical Sciences

Healthcare professionals make crucial contributions to society and approach their work with compassion, integrity, and dedication: Shri JP Nadda