NewzIntel.com

    • Checkout Page
    • Contact Us
    • Default Redirect Page
    • Frontpage
    • Home-2
    • Home-3
    • Lost Password
    • Member Login
    • Member LogOut
    • Member TOS Page
    • My Account
    • NewzIntel Alert Control-Panel
    • NewzIntel Latest Reports
    • Post Views Counter
    • Privacy Policy
    • Public Individual Page
    • Register
    • Subscription Plan
    • Thank You Page

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Post event press release of Chennai roadshow held on 5th February, 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 06 FEB 2025 9:29AM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) hosted the North East Trade and Investment Roadshow in Chennai today. The roadshow evoked strong interest from potential investors who are eager to explore opportunities in the North Eastern States. The event was attended by the Hon’ble Minister, Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region & Ministry of Communications, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, alongwith Pu Lalnghinglova Hmar, Hon’ble Minister of Sports & Youth Services, Government of Mizoram, senior officials from MDoNER, North Eastern Council and North Eastern States.

    Hon’ble Minister, MDoNER mentioned that Hon’ble Prime Minister emphasized North East as India’s Asthalakshmi, a key economic asset poised for rapid industrialization. He highlighted the major development initiatives in the infrastructure sector that have taken place in the North Eastern Region under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister during the last 10 years, inter-alia, including expanding air, road and rail connectivity, waterways etc. Hon’ble Minister MDoNER stated that each of the eight states of the North East embodies unique strengths, resources and opportunities, making this region an invaluable asset in India’s growth story. From its rich cultural diversity to its natural beauty and strategic location, the North Eastern Region holds immense potential to emerge as one of the country’s leading economic powerhouses. Its proximity to Southeast Asia also positions the North Eastern Region as a gateway to South East Asian countries, aligning perfectly with India’s Act East Policy. He also highlighted the potential of North Eastern States in various sectors such as Tourism & hospitality, Agri and allied industries, healthcare, entertainment & sports, infrastructure & logistics, IT & ITeS, Textiles, Handloom & Handicrafts, energy etc. He assured investors that the region’s youth, high literacy rates, and abundant natural resources make it an ideal destination for investment. Hon’ble Minister expressed his admiration for Chennai, calling it a “thriving IT powerhouse and a cradle of economic growth for India”. He acknowledged the city’s rich heritage, cutting-edge technology, and robust industrial ecosystem, drawing parallels between Chennai’s potential and North East India’s emerging economic landscape. Highlighting the North East India’s strengths in agriculture, food processing, tourism, and manufacturing, he urged Chennai’s entrepreneurs to invest in these sectors. He also underlined that North East holds 38% of India’s bamboo resources which offers great opportunity to furniture industry of Chennai. Further, the large untapped hydrocarbon reserves and hydropower generation potential of the North Eastern Region waiting to be harnessed. In his concluding remarks he invited investors to the North Eastern Region and play a key role in shaping the future of the region.

    Hon’ble Minister of Sports & Youth Services, Govt. of Mizoram in his address highlighted Mizoram’s immense investment opportunities despite being a small state with a population of just 11 lakh. He stated that with 55% of its land under horticulture, Mizoram produces GI-tagged ginger and chillies, along with mandarin oranges, papaya, and dragon fruit, offering significant potential in agriculture and food processing. The State is rich in bamboo cultivation, which still remains largely untapped. He also underlined that Mizoram is also positioning itself as a sports powerhouse and is aligned with India’s 2036 Olympic vision. Mizoram has also produced top sportspersons, therefore, the sports sector has great potential for investment. He also urged investors to explore other sectors such as tourism, infrastructure, food processing etc. for investment in the State of Mizoram.

    Shri Chanchal Kumar, Secretary, MDoNER in his address highlighted the immense investment potential of the North East, calling it a hub of innovation, cultural heritage, and economic opportunity. With breathtaking landscapes and a thriving tourism sector, the region has become increasingly attractive for investors. He highlighted that over the last 10 years, connectivity of the region has been transformed whether it is road, rail, air, water, and digital. The region’s economic growth has outpaced the national average, making it an ideal destination for businesses. Further, the North Eastern States have tailored, attractive policies aligned with the Central Government to encourage investment. He informed that Government has identified eight tourism sites to be developed as model tourist destinations across each of the North Eastern States through PPP mode.  He also underlined that IT & ITeS sector is growing faster in the North Eastern Region. Further, the agriculture and allied sectors offers unique products with immense economic potential. He stated that UNNATI scheme launched by Government of India provides attractive incentives for investment in the North Eastern Region. He also mentioned that with trilateral highways and the Kaladan project, the North East is set to become a key hub for medical tourism, catering to over 60 million people from neighbouring countries. The single-window system across the North Eastern States ensures ease of doing business. He urged the investors to visit, explore, and partner in North East India’s transformation.

    Shri Shantanu, Joint Secretary, MDoNER, in his address on advantage North East and Opportunities for Investment and Trade emphasized that North Eastern Region has rich untapped potential. He informed that during the last 10 years there is a remarkable improvement in connectivity to the North Eastern Region whether it’s air, rail, road or waterways. Over the past decade, the government has successfully completed numerous pending projects, benefiting local communities and millions of people through various schemes/initiatives. He stated that North East Region’s enabling infrastructure, strategic connectivity, higher working age population and an english-speaking workforce, makes it ideal for businesses targeting Southeast Asian markets.  He also highlighted the opportunities in the region in various sectors like IT & ITES, Healthcare, Agri and allied, Education & Skill Development, Sports & Entertainment, Tourism & Hospitality, Infrastructure and logistics; Textiles, Handlooms and Handicrafts and Energy. He stated that with ample opportunities across multiple sectors, North East India welcomes investors to explore its vast potential and be part of its growth journey.

    The representative of Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, gave a detailed presentation on the UNNATI Scheme, providing attendees with a comprehensive understanding of its benefits and associated incentives. He underlined that the UNNATI Scheme aims to boost industrialisation and economic growth in North East India. The scheme offers incentives to attract investors and manufacturing companies, supports the ‘Act East Policy,’ and promotes domestic manufacturing and services to reduce import dependence and enhance exports.

    Senior officials representing the North Eastern States shared actionable insights about the emerging opportunities across various sectors. The Chennai roadshow drew strong participation from industry leaders, further reinforcing the investment appeal of North East India. The event also featured several B2G meetings, providing investors with a platform to discuss their investment plans in the North Eastern Region.

    The Chennai roadshow concluded on a positive note, with participants expressing keen interest in exploring collaborative ventures in the North Eastern Region. The event not only fostered meaningful dialogue but also laid the groundwork for future partnerships, driving economic growth and sustainable development in the region. The event marked another milestone in a series of successful roadshows across India and showcased the untapped potential of North East India.

    *****

    Samrat/Dheeraj

    donerpib[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2100164) Visitor Counter : 51

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    February 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appeal for information on missing girl in Lantau North (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Appeal for information on missing girl in Lantau North (with photo)
    Appeal for information on missing girl in Lantau North (with photo)
    *******************************************************************

         Police today (February 6) appealed to the public for information on a girl who went missing in Lantau North.     Pun Ruth Elizabeth Guillergan, aged 15, went missing after she left her residence in Mun Tung Estate on February 5 morning. Her family made a report to Police today.     She is about 1.52 metres tall, around 63 kilograms in weight and of fat build. She has a round face with yellow complexion and long black hair. She was last seen wearing a white jacket, a white dress and a white headscarf.      Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the missing girl or may have seen her is urged to contact the Regional Missing Persons Unit of New Territories South on 3661 1173 or 5562 1893, or email to rmpu-nts-2@police.gov.hk, or contact any police station.

     
    Ends/Thursday, February 6, 2025Issued at HKT 11:41

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    February 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Exploring Traditions: HSE Students Celebrate Chinese New Year

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    February 1st Cultural center HSE University celebrated the Eastern New Year as usual – a large-scale celebration united students and teachers interested in the culture of East Asian countries. The organizers were School of Oriental Studies Faculty of World Economy and World Politics, Internationalization Directorate, HSE Chinese Club, as well as other university clubs – Japanese “Musubi” and Korean “Hallyan“.

    Guests were treated to calligraphy master classes, where they could learn how to write their name in the languages of Asian countries, try their hand at the art of ink drawing, and create an imprint of the symbol of the year — a snake. Tea lovers learned the intricacies of traditional tea drinking, learned about the most diverse and unusual types of this plant and the significance of the tea ceremony in Eastern culture. Visitors were also offered Chinese red envelopes with New Year wishes — in China, they are traditionally given to loved ones, wishing them well-being and good luck.

    The guests took part in national games and quizzes with great interest, where they tested their knowledge of Eastern traditions and the history of the holiday. The culmination was a concert, where the audience could immerse themselves more deeply in the atmosphere of the Chinese New Year thanks to theatrical scenes, national songs and performances by dance groups.

    Many international students compared the joyful atmosphere that reigned to New Year’s at home. “I am from Asia, and this year I was unable to celebrate the New Year in my homeland. But here I was able to feel the warmth and comfort of a home holiday,” shared Nguyen Hinh Goc Anh, a student. Higher School of Business.

    For Russian students studying Eastern culture, this evening was an excellent opportunity to get to know the traditions better.

    The guests noted the high level of organization and the organizers’ attention to detail. “The interiors are beautifully stylized, it is clear that people really prepared and were burning with the idea. Each zone has a special atmosphere that allows you to immerse yourself in the culture,” noted Ekaterina Klimenko, a 5th-year student of the educational program “Oriental Studies” She brought her friend Elizaveta to the party, who does not study at the HSE, but was happy to spend the day at the university.

    For the guests, the holiday was not just entertainment, but also an opportunity to communicate with new people. “Here you can have fun, broaden your horizons, get acquainted with traditions, and also meet students from different fields,” said Maria Fedyunina, a student in the educational program “Management in creative industries” FCI HSE.

    The participants of the evening emphasized the importance of such initiatives, as they help strengthen the student community by creating a space for communication and knowledge sharing.

    Text: Sofia Simina, OP “Advertising and Public Relations“

    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 –

    February 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Atlys announces its expansion to the UK, spelling the end of visa woes for more than 36% of the population

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, Feb. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — For millions of travellers, planning a trip abroad means facing uncertainty and anxiety as they jump through hoops trying to satisfy complex visa requirements. In order to tackle this kind of travel inequality, Atlys has today announced its expansion into the UK market. The digital visa platform’s UK expansion follows a fresh $20 million funding round from marquee global investors. 

    As part of its UK expansion, Atlys has acquired Artionis, a UK-based visa services company, bringing aboard 40 specialists across offices in London, Manchester, and Edinburgh. It plans to double headcount to 80 employees in the UK this year. The acquisition strengthens Atlys’ expertise in specialised visa routes, that will cater to 36% of the UK population made up of non-UK passport holders as well as those who prefer a DIY approach to visa applications.

    Atlys founder and CEO: Mohak Nahta.

    “Expanding to the UK represents more than just market growth – it’s about creating a more equitable travel ecosystem,” said Mohak Nahta, Founder and CEO of Atlys. “Our platform is designed to make international travel accessible to everyone, regardless of their passport strength, and the UK’s strategic position will help us extend this impact across Europe.”

    The Atlys digital visa application experience.

    Since its inception in 2021, Atlys has processed over two million visas for people, transforming a traditionally complex process through intelligent automation. The platform’s unique predictive engine provides exact visa approval timelines and backs this certainty with refund guarantees for rejected or delayed applications. Users can complete applications in under five minutes and upload documents once to become visa-ready for more than 100 countries, eliminating redundant paperwork. Within six months of its launch, Atlys rapidly became the largest visa processor in India – capturing a lion’s share of the market. Building on that momentum, Atlys launched its services in the UAE last year and has quickly established a strong foothold in the country where 90%  of the population is made up of expatriates, creating a pressing demand for a streamlined visa solution.

    Atlys offers transparency on your visa application process.

    Atlys’s impact can be seen in the stories of users like George, who booked a flight to Dubai to visit his ailing mother and only realized at the airport that his UAE visa had expired. With Atlys’s assistance, he secured a new visa in just 30 minutes – just in time to board his plane. Another case highlighting Atlys’s effectiveness is Muhammad, a businessman from Hyderabad who initially had his European visa application denied. Atlys guided him through the process, recommended the most suitable embassy, and helped craft a strong application that showcased his ties to India, ultimately leading to an approval.

    The platform’s origin story reflects its mission. The idea for Atlys was born when Mohak Nahta, while working at Pinterest, faced a stark contrast in travel preparation compared to his American colleagues. As the only Indian team member planning a five-country work trip, Nahta had to secure multiple visas, each requiring him to submit the same documents over and over again. This frustration led him to envision a platform where travellers could upload documents once and instantly become visa-ready for multiple countries. What started as a side project quickly gained traction among friends, with word-of-mouth driving rapid adoption. 

    The founder’s belief in the solution led to unconventional growth tactics. He began visiting San Francisco’s international airport wearing a T-shirt emblazoned with the words “Got Questions on Turkey e-Visa?”, helping confused travellers navigate recent rule changes – until security eventually banned him from the premises. This grassroots approach and clear market need convinced Nahta to leave Pinterest and pursue Atlys full-time.

    “Since our initial investment, Atlys has demonstrated exceptional growth, processing over two million visas while maintaining strong user satisfaction,” said Shraeyansh Thakur, Principal at Peak XV. “Their data-driven approach and focus on user experience set them apart. The UK expansion represents a significant step toward becoming the definitive platform for global travel enablement.”

    The expansion comes as the global travel sector shows considerable growth, with the World Travel & Tourism Council valuing the market at nearly $9 trillion in 2023 and projecting over 1.8 billion international arrivals by decade’s end. Beyond visas, Atlys is evolving into a comprehensive travel companion having added eSIMs, Forex, and travel insurance to their offering, with plans to expand into curated experiences.

    Looking ahead, Atlys will leverage its new funding to drive product innovation and broader expansion, empowering even more  global travellers to explore the world with confidence – regardless of their passport strength.

    Ends

    Media images can be found here. 

    About Atlys
    Founded in 2021 by Mohak Nahta, Atlys simplifies visa processing and global travel. Through its intuitive platform, even first-time travellers can confidently navigate visa applications. Driven by the mission to enable every person to travel freely, Atlys is paving the way for a world where borders are no longer a barrier to exploration.

    The MIL Network –

    February 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Thousands expected for opening night of Spectra 2025

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    Spectra, Scotland’s Festival of Light, will get underway this evening as thousands of eventgoers from across Scotland, Aberdeen and further afield, are expected to descend on the Granite City to enjoy the magic and wonder that the popular four-day event offers.

    Featuring 15 artworks including giant projections and huge interactive light installations, as well as entertainment from street performers, to dancers, and musicians, the free-to-attend festival, owned and commissioned by Aberdeen City Council, and produced by Live Event Management, is now in its 11th year and saw over 100,000 people attend last year.

    Councillor Martin Greig, cultural spokesperson for Aberdeen City Council, said: “Spectra is finally here and we cannot wait for visitors from the city and beyond to revel in the magic that this year’s festival offers. The planning for this year’s festival has been underway for months. A great deal of people have been working with the Council to make this event a success. There has been excellent collaboration with artists and local groups. All the preparation and hard work is going to create wonderful experiences for everyone to enjoy. The opening night is a very happy celebration of all the collective artistic activity.”

    Running from 6th – 9th February and helping to light up the city are a range of leading artists and installations from across the UK and Australia, including a giant inflatable castle called Sky Castle by Australian artists ENESS, a huge neon colouring wall by Scottish illustrator, Johanna Basford OBE, and two installations by Newcastle-based Studio Vertigo which include a huge illuminated slinky and a giant moon apparently removed from its orbit and lassoed to a boat.

    A 50m long multi-sensory walkway by Kent-based Lucid Creates, is designed to distort reality, creating shifts in time and space, exploring the contrast between light and dark using strobes of light.

    The heartbeats of over 65 Aberdonians, a sprawling illuminated fungal network and a virtual exhibition by artist Craig Barrowman and local artists that transforms public space into an immersive experience using a smartphone and the Northern Lights AR app can also be enjoyed.

    A specially commissioned art piece by Aberdeen Art Gallery and Scottish artist, Council Baby, will take pride of place in the Gallery’s magnificent Sculpture Court area which will see a large-scale video installation projection comprising of four striking stained-glass designs which have been inspired by works in the city’s collection and visits to the area, with each animated panel capturing different aspects of Aberdeen’s rich history.

    The iconic ABERDEEN letters by Aberdeen Inspired will feature a special design for the occasion at their new temporary residence outside of Marischal College for the duration of the festival.

    More information on the festival can be found at www.spectrafestival.com

    Photo (Left to Right): Artists from IDONTLOVEYOUANYMORE; Councillor Martin Greig; and artists from RGU Northern Lights; in front of Council Baby’s Fit D’You Know About The Bon Accord video installation, which was commissioned by Aberdeen Art Gallery for Spectra 2025. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Bilibili Inc. to Report Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2024 Unaudited Financial Results on Thursday, February 20, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SHANGHAI, Feb. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bilibili Inc. (“Bilibili” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: BILI and HKEX: 9626), an iconic brand and a leading video community for young generations in China, today announced that it will report its fourth quarter and fiscal year 2024 unaudited financial results on Thursday, February 20, 2025, before the open of U.S. markets.

    The Company’s management will host an earnings conference call at 7:00 AM U.S. Eastern Time on February 20, 2025 (8:00 PM Beijing/Hong Kong Time on February 20, 2025). Details for the conference call are as follows:

    All participants must use the link provided above to complete the online registration process in advance of the conference call. Upon registering, each participant will receive a set of participant dial-in numbers and a personal PIN, which will be used to join the conference call.

    Additionally, a live webcast of the conference call will be available on the Company’s investor relations website at http://ir.bilibili.com, and a replay of the webcast will be available following the session.

    About Bilibili Inc.

    Bilibili is an iconic brand and a leading video community with a mission to enrich the everyday lives of young generations in China. Bilibili offers a wide array of video-based content with All the Videos You Like as its value proposition. Bilibili builds its community around aspiring users, high-quality content, talented content creators and the strong emotional bonds among them. Bilibili pioneered the “bullet chatting” feature, a live comment function that has transformed our users’ viewing experience by displaying the thoughts and feelings of audience members viewing the same video. The Company has now become the welcoming home of diverse interests among young generations in China and the frontier for promoting Chinese culture across the world.

    For more information, please visit: http://ir.bilibili.com.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

    In China:

    Bilibili Inc.
    Juliet Yang
    Tel: +86-21-2509-9255 Ext. 8523
    E-mail: ir@bilibili.com

    Piacente Financial Communications
    Helen Wu
    Tel: +86-10-6508-0677
    E-mail: bilibili@tpg-ir.com 

    In the United States:

    Piacente Financial Communications
    Brandi Piacente
    Tel: +1-212-481-2050
    E-mail: bilibili@tpg-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: ‘Ne Zha 2’ smashes China box office records, becomes top-grossing film

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    “Ne Zha 2” shattered Chinese box office records on Thursday, becoming the highest-grossing domestic film ever just nine days after its release.

    A new poster marks “Ne Zha 2’s” record as the highest-grossing film in Chinese cinema history. [Image courtesy of Coloroom Pictures]

    The animated feature, directed by Yang Yu, better known as Jiaozi, earned 5.8 billion yuan ($796 million) by Feb. 6, surpassing the previous record holder “The Battle at Lake Changjin,” which earned 5.78 billion yuan, according to Maoyan Pro, a top box office tracking platform. “Ne Zha 2” achieved this milestone in eight days and five hours, setting over 70 box office records and becoming 2025’s top-grossing film worldwide.

    The sequel to 2019’s “Ne Zha,” which earned 5 billion yuan, continues to explore stories from the Ming dynasty novel “Investiture of the Gods.” It follows Ne Zha and Ao Bing, who return in lotus-formed bodies after a catastrophe. The plot involves threats from dragon kings and their armies, while a powerful god schemes to maintain control over immortals, demons and other beings.

    Wang Changtian, president of Enlight Media, described the film as a comedic and visually stunning animated feature crafted for the big screen. Developed over five years with over 4,000 Chinese animation professionals, it features new characters, battle sequences and 1,900 visual effects shots.

    “This film must go to the extreme,” director Jiaozi said in a video released by IMAX China. “We spared no effort right up to the last day when some scenes were finally completed. I believe the super-level scenes are worthy of being presented on IMAX screens.” IMAX China reported “Ne Zha 2” led the Spring Festival season with $36 million in IMAX format earnings.

    The film’s climactic battle features 200 million characters, a scale that presented unprecedented challenges for the production team. “The super-level shots are something nobody has ever seen before,” Jiaozi said. “We had to push every boundary to achieve what we envisioned.” He added that the sequel’s theme evolved during its five-year development to reflect societal changes while maintaining sincerity, which he said resonates most profoundly with audiences.

    A combination image shows congratulatory posters from filmmakers behind the top-grossing Chinese blockbusters — “The Battle at Lake Changjin,” “Wolf Warrior 2,” “Hi, Mom,” “The Wandering Earth,” “Full River Red” and “Detective Chinatown 3” — after “Ne Zha 2” surpassed their films. [Image provided to China.org.cn]

    Maoyan Pro analyst Lai Li stated that the exceptional performance of the film has energized Chinese cinema, the animation sector and creators. “Both the booming Spring Festival period and rising box office ceiling demonstrate the strong resilience and enormous growth potential of the Chinese film market,” he said.

    Rao Shuguang, president of the China Film Critics Association, called “Ne Zha 2” a significant milestone for the Chinese film industry. “The box office trajectory of ‘Ne Zha 2’ indeed exceeded prior estimates, primarily because it draws from Chinese mythology while incorporating more modern expressions, satisfying the emotional and psychological needs of contemporary audiences,” he told Chia.org.cn. “Its success primarily stems from compelling storytelling and sets new standards in animation, special effects, and audiovisual quality in Chinese cinema. Beyond narrative strength, it delivers imaginative storytelling and unique character development while conveying healthy, positive modern values.”

    Analysts project the film could reach 9.5 billion yuan ($1.3 billion), which would surpass the single-market record of $937 million set by “Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens” in North America. “Ne Zha 2” begins its global rollout on Feb. 13 through distributor CMC Pictures in Australia and New Zealand, followed by North America (U.S. and Canada) on Feb. 14. Other international territories will be handled by separate foreign or overseas Chinese distributors.

    MIL OSI China News –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scotland one of the “best places in the world” for start-ups

    Source: Scottish Government

    Techscaler supporting more entrepreneurs across Scotland.

    Start-up tech companies participating in the Scottish Government’s Techscaler business accelerator programme have raised more than £118 million of capital investment in the past two years.

    It comes from both private and public sources and is supporting businesses in sectors such as medical technology, artificial intelligence and space.

    Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes described Scotland as one of the best places in the world to launch a start-up tech company during a speech marking the publication of Techscaler’s Annual Report.  

    It also reveals that the number of companies involved in the programme almost doubled last year from 502 to 978, while the number of individual entrepreneurs more than doubled from 610 to 1,411. They were able to access benefits including mentoring, training and introductions to potential investors and customers.

    Further activity included two international pop-up hubs in Singapore and San Francisco to help companies penetrate global markets.

    Konversable, a Glasgow AI chatbot and messaging technology company which helps companies convert enquiries into sales, was introduced to potential investors and customers at Techscaler’s Singapore pop-up in October. The company secured £300,000 investment over the year.

    Deputy First Minister and Economy Secretary Kate Forbes said: 

    “The Techscaler programme – which I am deeply proud to have launched just two years ago – is contributing to Scotland’s reputation as one of the best places in the world to launch a tech start-up.

    “While this is a relatively young programme, what this report makes clear is that it is delivering results and helping entrepreneurs to unleash their ability to innovate, spearheading Scotland’s presence in expanding new markets.

    Edinburgh company CodeBase runs the Techscaler programme. CEO and co-founder Stephen Coleman said:

    “We’re proud of our collective achievements over the first two years of Techscaler, delivering strong support for our ambitious founders and startups both here in Scotland and increasingly as they target global markets, building on our position as a catalyst driving innovation, partnerships, and collaboration across the Scottish tech ecosystem.”

    Background

    Techscaler Annual Report

    Backed by £42 million of Scottish Government investment, Techscaler was founded in 2022 to help tech founders grow their businesses.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: International Petroleum Corporation to release 2024 Year-End Financial and Operational Results and to hold Capital Markets Day on February 11, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    International Petroleum Corporation (IPC) (TSX, Nasdaq Stockholm: IPCO) will publish its financial and operating results and related management’s discussion and analysis for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024, on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at 07:30 CET, followed by an audiocast at 10:00 CET (09:00 GMT). IPC’s annual Capital Markets Day will also be held on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 as a webcast at 15:00 CET (14:00 GMT).

    Follow the 2024 year-end financial and operating results presentation starting at 10:00 CET (09:00 GMT) live on www.international-petroleum.com or using the link below:

    Presentation Link: https://ipc.videosync.fi/2025-02-11-q4

    Follow the Capital Markets Day presentation at 15:00 CET (14:00 GMT) live on www.international-petroleum.com or using the link below:

    Presentation Link: https://ipc.videosync.fi/2025-02-11-cmd

    International Petroleum Corp. (IPC) is an international oil and gas exploration and production company with a high quality portfolio of assets located in Canada, Malaysia and France, providing a solid foundation for organic and inorganic growth. IPC is a member of the Lundin Group of Companies. IPC is incorporated in Canada and IPC’s shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) and the Nasdaq Stockholm under the symbol “IPCO”.

    For further information, please contact:

    Rebecca Gordon
    SVP Corporate Planning and Investor Relations
    rebecca.gordon@international-petroleum.com
    Tel: +41 22 595 10 50    		  

    Or

    		 Robert Eriksson
    Media Manager
    reriksson@rive6.ch
    Tel: +46 701 11 26 15

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains statements and information which constitute “forward-looking statements” or “forward-looking information” (within the meaning of applicable securities legislation). Such statements and information (together, “forward-looking statements”) relate to future events, including the Corporation’s future performance, business prospects or opportunities. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release, unless otherwise indicated. IPC does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable laws.

    All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, forecasts, guidance, budgets, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as “seek”, “anticipate”, “plan”, “continue”, “estimate”, “expect”, “may”, “will”, “project”, “forecast”, “predict”, “potential”, “targeting”, “intend”, “could”, “might”, “should”, “believe”, “budget” and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be “forward-looking statements”.

    Attachment

    • IPC PR YE 2024 and 2025 CMD release advance 06-02-25

    The MIL Network –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: International Petroleum Corporation to release 2024 Year-End Financial and Operational Results and to hold Capital Markets Day on February 11, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Feb. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — International Petroleum Corporation (IPC) (TSX, Nasdaq Stockholm: IPCO) will publish its financial and operating results and related management’s discussion and analysis for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024, on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at 07:30 CET, followed by an audiocast at 10:00 CET (09:00 GMT). IPC’s annual Capital Markets Day will also be held on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 as a webcast at 15:00 CET (14:00 GMT).

    Follow the 2024 year-end financial and operating results presentation starting at 10:00 CET (09:00 GMT) live on www.international-petroleum.com or using the link below:

    Presentation Link: https://ipc.videosync.fi/2025-02-11-q4

    Follow the Capital Markets Day presentation at 15:00 CET (14:00 GMT) live on www.international-petroleum.com or using the link below:

    Presentation Link: https://ipc.videosync.fi/2025-02-11-cmd

    International Petroleum Corp. (IPC) is an international oil and gas exploration and production company with a high quality portfolio of assets located in Canada, Malaysia and France, providing a solid foundation for organic and inorganic growth. IPC is a member of the Lundin Group of Companies. IPC is incorporated in Canada and IPC’s shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) and the Nasdaq Stockholm under the symbol “IPCO”.

    For further information, please contact:

    Rebecca Gordon
    SVP Corporate Planning and Investor Relations
    rebecca.gordon@international-petroleum.com
    Tel: +41 22 595 10 50    		 Or Robert Eriksson
    Media Manager
    reriksson@rive6.ch
    Tel: +46 701 11 26 15
         

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains statements and information which constitute “forward-looking statements” or “forward-looking information” (within the meaning of applicable securities legislation). Such statements and information (together, “forward-looking statements”) relate to future events, including the Corporation’s future performance, business prospects or opportunities. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release, unless otherwise indicated. IPC does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable laws.

    All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, forecasts, guidance, budgets, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as “seek”, “anticipate”, “plan”, “continue”, “estimate”, “expect”, “may”, “will”, “project”, “forecast”, “predict”, “potential”, “targeting”, “intend”, “could”, “might”, “should”, “believe”, “budget” and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be “forward-looking statements”.

    The MIL Network –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Female genital mutilation is a leading cause of death for girls where it’s practised – new study

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Heather D. Flowe, Professor of Psychology, University of Birmingham

    Female genital mutilation or cutting (FGM/C) is a deeply entrenched cultural practice that affects around 200 million women and girls. It’s practised in at least 25 African countries, as well as parts of the Middle East and Asia and among immigrant populations globally.

    It is a harmful traditional practice that involves removing or damaging female genital tissue. Often it’s “justified” by cultural beliefs about controlling female sexuality and marriageability. FGM/C causes immediate and lifelong physical and psychological harm to girls and women, including severe pain, complications during childbirth, infections and trauma.

    We brought together our expertise in economics and gender based violence to examine excess mortality (avoidable deaths) due to FGM/C. Our new research now reveals a devastating reality: FGM/C is one of the leading causes of death for girls and young women in countries where it’s practised. FGM/C can result in death from severe bleeding, infection, shock, or obstructed labour.

    Our study estimates that it causes approximately 44,000 deaths each year across the 15 countries we examined. That is equivalent to a young woman or girl every 12 minutes.

    This makes it a more significant cause of death in the countries studied than any other excluding infection, malaria and respiratory infections or tuberculosis. Put differently, it is a bigger cause of death than HIV/Aids, measles, meningitis and many other well-known health threats for young women and girls in these countries.

    Prior research has shown that FGM/C leads to severe pain, bleeding and infection. But tracking deaths directly caused by the practice has been nearly impossible. This is partly because FGM/C is illegal in many countries where it occurs, and it typically takes place in non-clinical settings without medical supervision.

    Where the crisis is most severe

    The practice is particularly prevalent in several African nations. In Guinea, our data show 97% of women and girls have undergone FGM/C, while in Mali the figure stands at 83%, and in Sierra Leone, 90%. The high prevalence rates in Egypt, with 87% of women and girls affected, are a reminder that FGM/C is not confined to sub-Saharan Africa.

    For our study, we analysed data from the 15 African countries for which comprehensive “gold standard” FGM/C incidence information is available. Meaning, the data is comprehensive, reliable and widely accepted for research, policymaking and advocacy efforts to combat FGM/C.

    We developed a new approach to help overcome previous gaps in data. We matched data on the proportion of girls subjected to FGM/C at different ages with age-specific mortality rates across 15 countries between 1990 and 2020. The age at which FGM occurs varies significantly by country. In Nigeria, 93% of procedures are performed on girls younger than five years old. In contrast, in Sierra Leone, most girls undergo the procedure between the ages of 10 and 14.

    Since health conditions vary from place to place and over time, and vary in the same place from one year to the next, we made sure to consider these differences. This helped us figure out if more girls were dying at the ages when FGM/C usually happens in each country.

    For example, in Chad, 11.2% of girls undergo FGM/C aged 0-4, 57.2% at 5-9 and 30% at 10-14. We could see how mortality rates changed between these age groups compared to countries with different FGM patterns.

    This careful statistical approach helped us identify the excess deaths associated with the practice while accounting for other factors that might affect child mortality.

    Striking findings

    Our analysis revealed that when the proportion of girls subjected to FGM in a particular age group increases by 50 percentage points, their mortality rate rises by 0.1 percentage points. While this may sound small, when applied across the population of affected countries, it translates to tens of thousands of preventable deaths annually.

    The scale is staggering: while armed conflicts in Africa caused approximately 48,000 combat deaths per year between 1995 and 2015, our research suggests FGM/C leads to about 44,000 deaths annually. This places FGM among the most serious public health challenges facing these nations.

    Beyond the numbers

    These statistics represent real lives cut short. Most FGM/C procedures are performed without anaesthesia, proper medical supervision, or sterile equipment. The resulting complications can include severe bleeding, infection and shock. Even when not immediately fatal, the practice can lead to long-term health problems and increased risks during childbirth.

    The impact extends beyond physical health. Survivors often face psychological trauma and social challenges. In many communities, FGM/C is deeply embedded in cultural practices and tied to marriage prospects, making it difficult for families to resist the pressure to continue the tradition.

    Urgent crisis

    FGM/C is not just a human rights violation – it’s a public health crisis demanding urgent attention. While progress has been made in some areas, with some communities abandoning the practice, our research suggests that current efforts to combat FGM/C need to be dramatically scaled up.

    The COVID-19 pandemic has potentially worsened the situation, owing to broader impacts of the pandemic on societies, economies and healthcare systems. The UN estimates that the pandemic may have led to 2 million additional cases of FGM/C that could have been prevented. Based on our mortality estimates, this could result in approximately 4,000 additional deaths in the 15 countries we studied.

    The way forward

    Ending FGM/C requires a multi-faceted approach. Legal reforms are crucial – the practice remains legal in five of the 28 countries where it’s most commonly practised. However, laws alone aren’t enough. Community engagement, education, and support for grassroots organisations are essential for changing deeply held cultural beliefs and practices.

    Previous research has shown that information campaigns and community-led initiatives can be effective. For instance, studies have documented reductions in FGM/C rates following increased social media reach in Egypt and the use of educational films showing different views on FGM/C.

    Most importantly, any solution must involve the communities where FGM/C is practised. Our research underscores that this isn’t just about changing traditions – it’s about saving lives. Every year of delay means tens of thousands more preventable deaths.

    Our findings suggest that ending FGM/C should be considered as urgent a priority as combating major infectious diseases. The lives of millions of girls and young women depend on it.

    – Female genital mutilation is a leading cause of death for girls where it’s practised – new study
    – https://theconversation.com/female-genital-mutilation-is-a-leading-cause-of-death-for-girls-where-its-practised-new-study-249171

    MIL OSI Africa –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Joint statement: Four years on from the Military Coup in Myanmar

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    January 31, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    “Today marks 4 years since the Myanmar military regime overthrew the democratically elected government in Myanmar, creating one of the largest crises in the Indo-Pacific. Since the coup, the people of Myanmar remain subject to military rule that has deprived many of their rights, democratic aspirations and, for thousands, their liberty and their lives.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Grattan on Friday: we don’t need an inquiry into the caravan affair but we do need some answers

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    The battle to contain antisemitism in Australia finds both sides of politics embracing measures they’d otherwise abhor.

    Spectacularly, the government capitulated this week to include mandatory minimum sentences of between one and six years in its hate speech legislation that passed the parliament on Thursday.

    That flip flop was done in a day. You need a longer memory to recall the Coalition’s insistence that free speech had to be preeminent over dealing with hate speech.

    Way back, when Tony Abbott was prime minister, there was a big (ultimately unsuccessful) push against Section 18C of the Racial Discrimination Act. This civil law prohibits acts “likely to offend, insult, humiliate or intimidate someone because of their race or ethnicity”. At the very least, libertarian Liberals wanted it reworded to remove “offend” and “insult”.

    Before entering parliament, James Paterson worked for the right wing Institute of Public Affairs, which spearheaded attacks on 18C. Even after becoming a senator in 2016, Paterson remained a strong critic of 18C (although he says he always supported laws against incitement to violence).

    Now as home affairs spokesman Paterson has been at the forefront of the opposition efforts to make the new hate speech law as strong as possible.

    Until mid week the government firmly ruled out giving in to opposition’s demands for mandatory sentences for hate crimes. The government’s resistance was unsurprising. The Labor party platform rules out mandatory sentences.

    But then late on Wednesday, leader of the house Tony Burke went into parliament with amendments including mandatory minimum sentences of between one and six years for various crimes under the anti-hate legislation.

    Teal MP Zoe Daniel, from the Victorian seat of Goldstein, was among several crossbenchers who voted against that amendment.

    She said later she supported the legislation but described the mandatory sentencing as “overreach”. “Community safety is paramount, and so is good policy-making. Mandatory minimum sentences do not reflect good parliamentary practice or good governance. Nor do they respect the sanctity of Australia’s constitution and separation of powers, and the importance of judicial independence.”

    The antisemitism crisis is, on a number of fronts, leading to the actual or advocated curtailment of civil liberties. The federal government has outlawed the Nazi salute and hate symbols. The NSW government is to bring in more anti-hate provisions.

    There is constant debate about the desirability of curbs of one sort or another on demonstrations. The antisemitism envoy, Jillian Segal, has said, “There should be places designated away from where the Jewish community might venture where people can demonstrate”.

    In our history we repeatedly see how government actions to confront perceived emergencies collide with civil liberties.

    For example, strong security laws introduced in the wake of September 11 2001 triggered arguments about the extent to which they struck down people’s rights. Going back to the Menzies era, the Communist threat prompted the government to try (and fail) to carry a referendum to ban the Communist Party.

    People of good intent will differ about the extent to which particular responses to a crisis are necessary and appropriate, or go too far, either being bad policy or an unjustified curb on civil liberties. Historical judgements may also differ from those made at the time.

    This is not to dispute that we should be taking the strongest action against antisemitism. It’s merely to point out that with each particular measure, it’s important to be confident the end justifies the means, taking into account possible unintended or adverse consequences as well as what is to be achieved.

    Having had a victory over mandatory minimum sentences, the opposition is pushing for an inquiry into when Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was told about the caravan found at Dural, NSW filled with explosives and containing indications Sydney’s Great Synagogue and a Jewish museum could be targets.

    The caravan was parked for several weeks on a street before it came to police attention. NSW police alerted Premier Chris Minns the following day. But it is unclear when the prime minister found out.

    Albanese has steadfastly refused to say, citing operational reasons. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton suggested (without producing any evidence) the NSW police might have made a deliberate decision not to advise the Commonwealth “so that the prime minister wasn’t advised because they were worried he would leak the information”.

    Dutton is calling for an “independent inquiry” into the circumstances by “an eminent Australian from the criminal intelligence and law enforcement intelligence community”.

    The inquiry call is politically driven. The government is right in arguing it would have the downside of diverting resources. But nevertheless there are questions that need answering.

    There seems no logical reason why the PM cannot reveal when he was first briefed on the caravan, other than to avoid disclosing some embarrassing timing gap. Any explanation around operational reasons would surely not explain why Minns was briefed but Albanese was not. Alternatively, if Albanese was briefed promptly, why doesn’t he say so?

    When pressed at a parliamentary committee on Thursday, Australian Federal Police Force Commissioner Reece Kershaw would not be drawn, saying it was not appropriate to provide information about an ongoing investigation at a public hearing.

    Later Greens member of the committee, senator David Shoebridge, said: “The AFP telling us when they informed the PM could in no way prejudice any ongoing police investigation. We had half a dozen senior AFP officials [before the committee] including the Commissioner and zero serious answers.

    “This whole circus would be shut down by any half competent government by telling us when the PM knew with a simple explanation for any delay. Instead we get these bizarre performances from both the PM and the AFP.”

    One question that should be answered by the authorities is why Jewish leaders, including those connected with the synagogue and the museum, were not informed. Though operational reasons might be relevant, surely safety considerations suggest the Jewish leaders should have been told.

    The authorities believe the antisemitic attacks are not simply unconnected incidents. They say people are being paid to make them, suggesting some master minding behind them.

    Of course that justifies secrecy while investigations proceed, but operational needs should not be a cover for refusing to provide enough information to give the public confidence the various authorities are working effectively together.

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

    – ref. Grattan on Friday: we don’t need an inquiry into the caravan affair but we do need some answers – https://theconversation.com/grattan-on-friday-we-dont-need-an-inquiry-into-the-caravan-affair-but-we-do-need-some-answers-249275

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: The ‘degrowth’ movement envisions global climate justice, but must adapt to global south realities

    Source: The Conversation – France – By Claudius Gräbner-Radkowitsch, Junior Professor of Pluralist Economics, Europa-Universität Flensburg

    It is widely accepted that human activities are the primary drivers of global warming and environmental crises, including the rapid loss of biodiversity. However, the debate over how best to address these issues is far from settled. In political circles, “green growth” – the concept of making economic activities more sustainable – has emerged as the most popular solution.

    Is green growth enough?

    The idea behind green growth is to continue expanding economies while minimising environmental harm. However, critics argue that this approach has failed to significantly curb climate change and biodiversity loss.

    Despite international efforts since the 1970s, carbon emissions have continued to rise. As the World Inequality Report reveals, nearly half of historical emissions occurred after 1990. Incremental policy changes, technological innovations and shifts in consumer behaviour have not been enough to reverse this trend. This failure has led to the growing appeal of “degrowth” – a more radical alternative that challenges the current global economic system.

    What is ‘degrowth’?

    “Degrowth” emerged in Europe, particularly in France, in the late 2000s. Philosophers such as André Gorz and economists such as Serge Latouche were among its early proponents, with researchers such as Tim Jackson later popularising the concept in the English-speaking world. They argue that the root cause of environmental destruction lies not only in human activity but also in a global economic model that has prioritised growth and profit since the Industrial Revolution.

    Initially, degrowth was a critique of Western lifestyles and notions of progress. Environmental concerns were just one part of the movement’s broader agenda. Over time, however, environmentalism has become central to the movement’s goals.

    A stenciled message in favour of degrowth.
    Paul Sableman, CC BY



    À lire aussi :
    Idea of green growth losing traction among climate policy researchers, survey of nearly 800 academics reveals

    What about the global south?

    Today, many degrowth advocates assert that the richer countries of the global north, being largely responsible for environmental degradation, should be the ones to scale back economic activity to avert ecological catastrophe. But what about the poorer countries of the global south? Should they adopt degrowth strategies? Some argue this would impose a neocolonial agenda, with wealthier countries once again dictating the terms of global development. Others note that many poorer countries need economic growth to combat poverty. And even if degrowth were limited to the north, it could still have significant effects on the south – both positive and negative.

    A review of academic literature on degrowth and the global south reveals two main perspectives: those who see degrowth as incompatible with the south’s development needs, and those who believe it could offer synergies with sustainable development goals.

    Supporters of degrowth often point out that many of its core ideas originate in the global south. Anthropologist Jason Hickel cites figures such as Sri Lankan philosopher Ananda Coomaraswamy, Indian economist J.C. Kumarappa and Bengali poet Rabindranath Tagore as inspirations. While these thinkers may not use the term “degrowth”, they promote ideas aligned with it, such as the Latin American Sumak kawsay (or “Buen vivir”) or the South African Ubuntu. These non-Western perspectives have been instrumental in shaping the degrowth discourse in the global north.

    Degrowth as decolonisation

    Degrowth advocates argue that scaling back economic activity in the north could help dismantle the unequal global division of labour, in which raw materials are extracted from the south and processed into consumer goods in the north. This system disproportionately benefits wealthier nations while leaving poorer countries with the social and environmental costs. Federico Demaria, a researcher in political ecology, argues that northern countries must “pay for past and present colonial exploitation in the south” – a central theme in contemporary degrowth discourse.

    An aerial view of a gold mine in Brazil.
    Tarcisio Schnaider/Shutterstock

    Some researchers suggest that dependence on economic growth is problematic for both the north and south. They argue that growth alone does not guarantee poverty reduction – wealth distribution and institutional reforms are just as crucial. Degrowth could help both regions avoid unsustainable development models by focusing more on social well-being than perpetual economic expansion.

    Challenges for degrowth in the global south

    However, many scholars believe degrowth is unattractive for the global south. Critics argue that the concept is too Eurocentric and fails to resonate amid the specific challenges faced by poorer nations. Interviews with academics and activists in the south show that while they may agree with some of the ideas behind degrowth, they reject its language, which they see as rooted in Western thinking. Economist Beatriz Rodríguez Labajos and her co-authors suggest that researchers from the north and south should look at “strengthening potential synergies, through an assertive recognition of the barriers to doing so”.

    There is also concern that promoting degrowth in the south could be perceived as a new form of colonialism. Imposing Western notions of degrowth could prevent poorer countries from following the same path to prosperity that the north took, which often involved exploiting the resources of the south. The degrowth movement’s failure to fully address the colonial roots of economic development poses a challenge to its decolonization-oriented ambitions.

    The problem of global dependencies

    Finally, global dependencies further complicate the degrowth debate. Many people in the south rely on export-driven economies that serve Western markets. A reduction in economic activity in the north could harm populations in the south who depend on those exports.

    This interdependence presents a dilemma for the degrowth movement. Proponents argue that degrowth is not about abandoning economic activity but reforming the global trade, finance and governance systems to prevent negative impacts on the south. For degrowth to succeed, its advocates must formulate concrete proposals that address these global dependencies without exacerbating inequalities or harming the most vulnerable.

    This article is part of a project involving The Conversation France and AFP audio. It has received financial support from the European Journalism Centre, as part of the Solutions Journalism Accelerator programme supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. AFP and The Conversation France have retained their editorial independence at every stage of the project.

    We offer this article as part of the Normandy World Forum for Peace, organised by the Normandy region of France on September 26-27, 2024. The Conversation France is a partner of the forum. For more information, visit the Normandy World Forum for Peace’s website.

    Claudius Gräbner-Radkowitsch is a member of the Bündnis90/Die Grünen (The Greens) party. He has received research grants, notably from the Austrian FWF and the German DFG.

    Birte Strunk ne travaille pas, ne conseille pas, ne possède pas de parts, ne reçoit pas de fonds d’une organisation qui pourrait tirer profit de cet article, et n’a déclaré aucune autre affiliation que son organisme de recherche.

    – ref. The ‘degrowth’ movement envisions global climate justice, but must adapt to global south realities – https://theconversation.com/the-degrowth-movement-envisions-global-climate-justice-but-must-adapt-to-global-south-realities-238276

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Female genital mutilation is a leading cause of death for girls where it’s practised – new study

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Heather D. Flowe, Professor of Psychology, University of Birmingham

    Female genital mutilation or cutting (FGM/C) is a deeply entrenched cultural practice that affects around 200 million women and girls. It’s practised in at least 25 African countries, as well as parts of the Middle East and Asia and among immigrant populations globally.

    It is a harmful traditional practice that involves removing or damaging female genital tissue. Often it’s “justified” by cultural beliefs about controlling female sexuality and marriageability. FGM/C causes immediate and lifelong physical and psychological harm to girls and women, including severe pain, complications during childbirth, infections and trauma.

    We brought together our expertise in economics and gender based violence to examine excess mortality (avoidable deaths) due to FGM/C. Our new research now reveals a devastating reality: FGM/C is one of the leading causes of death for girls and young women in countries where it’s practised. FGM/C can result in death from severe bleeding, infection, shock, or obstructed labour.

    Our study estimates that it causes approximately 44,000 deaths each year across the 15 countries we examined. That is equivalent to a young woman or girl every 12 minutes.

    This makes it a more significant cause of death in the countries studied than any other excluding infection, malaria and respiratory infections or tuberculosis. Put differently, it is a bigger cause of death than HIV/Aids, measles, meningitis and many other well-known health threats for young women and girls in these countries.

    Prior research has shown that FGM/C leads to severe pain, bleeding and infection. But tracking deaths directly caused by the practice has been nearly impossible. This is partly because FGM/C is illegal in many countries where it occurs, and it typically takes place in non-clinical settings without medical supervision.

    Where the crisis is most severe

    The practice is particularly prevalent in several African nations.
    In Guinea, our data show 97% of women and girls have undergone FGM/C, while in Mali the figure stands at 83%, and in Sierra Leone, 90%. The high prevalence rates in Egypt, with 87% of women and girls affected, are a reminder that FGM/C is not confined to sub-Saharan Africa.

    For our study, we analysed data from the 15 African countries for which comprehensive “gold standard” FGM/C incidence information is available. Meaning, the data is comprehensive, reliable and widely accepted for research, policymaking and advocacy efforts to combat FGM/C.

    We developed a new approach to help overcome previous gaps in data. We matched data on the proportion of girls subjected to FGM/C at different ages with age-specific mortality rates across 15 countries between 1990 and 2020. The age at which FGM occurs varies significantly by country. In Nigeria, 93% of procedures are performed on girls younger than five years old. In contrast, in Sierra Leone, most girls undergo the procedure between the ages of 10 and 14.

    Since health conditions vary from place to place and over time, and vary in the same place from one year to the next, we made sure to consider these differences. This helped us figure out if more girls were dying at the ages when FGM/C usually happens in each country.

    For example, in Chad, 11.2% of girls undergo FGM/C aged 0-4, 57.2% at 5-9 and 30% at 10-14. We could see how mortality rates changed between these age groups compared to countries with different FGM patterns.

    This careful statistical approach helped us identify the excess deaths associated with the practice while accounting for other factors that might affect child mortality.

    Striking findings

    Our analysis revealed that when the proportion of girls subjected to FGM in a particular age group increases by 50 percentage points, their mortality rate rises by 0.1 percentage points. While this may sound small, when applied across the population of affected countries, it translates to tens of thousands of preventable deaths annually.

    The scale is staggering: while armed conflicts in Africa caused approximately 48,000 combat deaths per year between 1995 and 2015, our research suggests FGM/C leads to about 44,000 deaths annually. This places FGM among the most serious public health challenges facing these nations.

    Beyond the numbers

    These statistics represent real lives cut short. Most FGM/C procedures are performed without anaesthesia, proper medical supervision, or sterile equipment. The resulting complications can include severe bleeding, infection and shock. Even when not immediately fatal, the practice can lead to long-term health problems and increased risks during childbirth.

    The impact extends beyond physical health. Survivors often face psychological trauma and social challenges. In many communities, FGM/C is deeply embedded in cultural practices and tied to marriage prospects, making it difficult for families to resist the pressure to continue the tradition.

    Urgent crisis

    FGM/C is not just a human rights violation – it’s a public health crisis demanding urgent attention. While progress has been made in some areas, with some communities abandoning the practice, our research suggests that current efforts to combat FGM/C need to be dramatically scaled up.

    The COVID-19 pandemic has potentially worsened the situation, owing to broader impacts of the pandemic on societies, economies and healthcare systems. The UN estimates that the pandemic may have led to 2 million additional cases of FGM/C that could have been prevented. Based on our mortality estimates, this could result in approximately 4,000 additional deaths in the 15 countries we studied.

    The way forward

    Ending FGM/C requires a multi-faceted approach. Legal reforms are crucial – the practice remains legal in five of the 28 countries where it’s most commonly practised. However, laws alone aren’t enough. Community engagement, education, and support for grassroots organisations are essential for changing deeply held cultural beliefs and practices.

    Previous research has shown that information campaigns and community-led initiatives can be effective. For instance, studies have documented reductions in FGM/C rates following increased social media reach in Egypt and the use of educational films showing different views on FGM/C.

    Most importantly, any solution must involve the communities where FGM/C is practised. Our research underscores that this isn’t just about changing traditions – it’s about saving lives. Every year of delay means tens of thousands more preventable deaths.

    Our findings suggest that ending FGM/C should be considered as urgent a priority as combating major infectious diseases. The lives of millions of girls and young women depend on it.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Female genital mutilation is a leading cause of death for girls where it’s practised – new study – https://theconversation.com/female-genital-mutilation-is-a-leading-cause-of-death-for-girls-where-its-practised-new-study-249171

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN engages with Jakarta-based media to disseminate regional priorities

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today hosted the first media engagement session for 2025, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. The session, which attended by some 20 Jakarta-based media, reiterated SG Dr. Kao’s strong commitment to actively cultivate and foster closer ties with the media community in support of ASEAN public diplomacy. The engagement session is particularly significant as ASEAN Leaders are expected to adopt the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and the four Strategic Plans during Malaysia’s Chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025, which would serve as a roadmap to guide the regional integration agenda in the next 20 years. SG Dr. Kao also reinforced the importance of media engagement in disseminating information about these crucial initiatives and in fostering a deeper understanding of ASEAN’s goals and priorities among a wider public.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN engages with Jakarta-based media to disseminate regional priorities appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ASEAN, Pakistan Explore Avenues to Strengthen Cooperation

    Source: ASEAN

    The 8th Meeting of ASEAN-Pakistan Joint Sectoral Cooperation Committee (AP-JSCC), convened today at ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta to discussed progress of ASEAN-Pakistan cooperation under the ASEAN-Pakistan Sectoral Dialogue Partnership: Practical Cooperation Areas (PCA) (2024-2028) and explore possible areas for future collaboration between both sides.

    The 8th AP-JSCC Meeting was co-chaired by Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for Socio-Cultural Community, San Lwin, and Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to ASEAN, Ameer Khurram Rathore, and attended by Members of the Committee of Permanent Representatives to ASEAN and their respective delegations. Ambassador of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste to ASEAN, Natércia Coelho da Silva, attended as Observer.

    The post ASEAN, Pakistan Explore Avenues to Strengthen Cooperation appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Hospitals will get $1.7 billion more federal funding. Will this reduce waiting times?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Henry Cutler, Professor and Director, Macquarie University Centre for the Health Economy, Macquarie University

    This week, the federal government announced it will pay states and territories an extra, one-off, A$1.7 billion for public hospitals.

    This has been billed as a way to fix some ailing hospitals, and shorten waits for care in emergency departments and for elective surgery. But will it really make a difference?

    How are hospitals funded?

    Australian public hospitals are funded through a collaborative arrangement involving state, territory and federal governments. The federal government provides 37% of public hospital funding annually, primarily through the National Health Reform Agreement. States and territories fund nearly all the rest.

    Most federal government funding for public hospitals is determined by an “activity based funding” formula. Funding is based on the number of patients treated and the price of treatment, the latter calculated from average public hospital costs.

    State and territory governments manage public hospitals. The federal government has little say on how public hospital money is spent. The exception is when funding relates to something specific, like a new hospital ward.

    How the extra funding compares

    The federal government will spend $30.19 billion on public hospitals this financial year. The extra funding will grow its public hospital spending by 12% in 2025–26.

    Extra funding will likely impact Northern Territory hospitals the most. It will receive $51 million more, a 30% increase.

    While larger states will receive additional funding, they have more public hospitals and patients. For example, New South Wales will receive $407 million, but this equates to only an 11% increase from the federal government.

    The extra funding is less impressive when compared to total public hospital spending. That was $86 billion in 2022–23, suggesting the extra $1.7 billion will represent less than 2% in additional total funding to public hospitals in 2025–26.

    But this extra spending is not in isolation. The federal government has already committed nearly $600 million to establish 87 urgent care clinics around Australia. Their primary purpose is to alleviate pressure on emergency departments and fill gaps in access to after-hours primary care.

    Public hospitals are funded mostly by the states and territories, but receive some funding from the federal government.
    khuncho24/Shutterstock

    Pressure in public hospitals

    Public hospital pressure has been building for over a decade. Emergency departments are often clogged, leading to long wait times, mostly because of staff shortages. Around 10% of patients wait more than two hours. There is little slack in the system to counter unpredictable surges in demand for care.

    The proportion of emergency department patients seen on time has declined since COVID. The proportion of patients requiring urgent emergency department care seen on-time, for example, has decreased from 67% to 61%. More non-urgent and semi-urgent patients are also not receiving care on time.

    Patients are also waiting longer for elective public hospital surgery since COVID, despite an increase in the number of admissions from elective surgery waiting lists.

    Proportion of patients seen on time in public hospital emergency departments


    Australian Institute of Health and Welfare

    Waiting times vary by state and territories. Queensland has the lowest proportion of patients waiting more than 365 days for public hospital elective surgery at 3.9% in 2023–24, while the ACT had the highest at 8.9%.

    Encouragingly, waiting times decreased for nearly all elective surgeries compared to 2022–23, suggesting public hospitals may be making inroads into the post-COVID load.

    Proportion of patients waiting more than 365 days for public hospital elective surgery

    Note: Data for the NT was unavailable.
    Australian Institute of Health and Welfare

    Will the money help?

    While additional funding will help, there is no magic wand. Public hospitals need to substantially reorganise their staff, workflows, beds and buildings. This in an environment that has workforce shortages, burnout, and wage pressures, making major health system changes particularly difficult.

    Some hospitals may reduce their waiting times substantially, if states and territories allocate their extra funding to poor performers.

    However, poor performance can be related to systemic issues out of the hospital’s control, such as workforce shortages. Without an increase in total health-care workforce size, these poor performing hospitals may look for additional staff from other public hospitals, worsening their performance.

    Whether any improvements last is another question.

    Public hospitals face increased demand for emergency department care, only mitigated by the potential success of urgent care clinics.



    Read more:
    Labor’s urgent care centres are a step in the right direction – but not a panacea

    Public hospitals also face an increase in demand for elective surgery, as the population ages and chronic disease prevalence increases.

    The extra $1.7 billion is only a one off. Funds to reduce waiting times will mostly be spent on more staff, such as nurses, clinicians and administration staff.

    Public hospitals will need additional, ongoing funding to keep up with demand, otherwise any initial improvement will dissipate.

    Funds to reduce waiting times will mostly be spent on more staff.
    Gorodenkoff/Shutterstock

    What else needs to happen?

    All governments need to invest more in prevention programs to slow the growth in public hospital demand.

    More Australians are obese, as a proportion of the population, compared to other OECD countries. This has created a heavy burden.

    Reducing financial waste in the health-care system is of huge importance. Savings could be used for long-term improvements in waiting times once the extra funding runs out.

    Around 40% of health care is of low value or causes harm. Reducing unnecessary medical tests, speeding up discharges, and reducing avoidable admissions is a good start.

    Other changes that could help include:

    • setting national performance targets for states and territories to reduce their waiting lists
    • stronger monitoring of performance
    • holding public hospital managers more accountable for achieving their waiting time targets.

    A new National Health Reform Agreement is due to take effect in 2026. Whoever wins this year’s federal election will have to finalise this agreement with the states and territories.

    The Commonwealth and states are yet to commit to all of the recommendations from the mid-term review of the current agreement released in October 2023. The extent to which governments accept these recommendations has the potential to create a much greater, long-term impact on waiting times than this extra, one-off payment.

    Henry Cutler has previously received funding from Northern Territory Health.

    – ref. Hospitals will get $1.7 billion more federal funding. Will this reduce waiting times? – https://theconversation.com/hospitals-will-get-1-7-billion-more-federal-funding-will-this-reduce-waiting-times-249170

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Man arrested in relation to Wainuiomata assault

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A man has been arrested following the assault in Wainuiomata last night, which left a man with serious injuries.

    The 23-year-old man has been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and is due to appear in Lower Hutt District Court tomorrow.

    The vehicle he was driving has been seized and will be forensically examined.

    Our enquiries have established that the incident occurred after an alleged road rage incident, which is believed to have occurred on Wainuiomata Road, between Rata Street and The Strand.

    Police are still looking to hear from anyone who may have information about this incident or those involved.

    In particular, we would like to speak to the occupants of a light-coloured Toyota Corolla, who may have recorded the incident on a phone, and the occupants of another vehicle who stopped and attempted to calm those involved in the incident.

    The alleged assault took place in a supermarket car park, with the store open at the time and shoppers about, so we are confident there are other people who witnessed what occurred and may be able to help our enquiries.

    If you can help, please use our 105 service and quote reference number 250205/0193.

    You can also share information anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI cancels the licence granted to The Cuddalore and Villupuram District Central Co-operative Bank’s Employees Cooperative Bank Ltd., Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu and allows it to function as non-banking institution

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is satisfied to notify The Cuddalore and Villupuram District Central Co-operative Bank’s Employees Cooperative Bank Ltd., Cuddalore – 607001, Tamil Nadu as a non-banking institution under Section 36A(2) read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949. Consequently, RBI has cancelled the licence dated March 21, 2000, granted to The Cuddalore and Villupuram District Central Co-operative Bank’s Employees Cooperative Bank Ltd., Cuddalore – 607001, Tamil Nadu to carry on banking business in India under Section 22 read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act,1949, with effect from the close of business on February 6, 2025. This makes it obligatory on the part of The Cuddalore and Villupuram District Central Co-operative Bank’s Employees Cooperative Bank Ltd., Cuddalore – 607001, Tamil Nadu to stop conducting the business of ‘banking’ within the meaning of section 5(b) read with Section 56 of the Act ibid, including acceptance of deposits from non-members with immediate effect. Further, The Cuddalore and Villupuram District Central Co-operative Bank’s Employees Cooperative Bank Ltd., Cuddalore – 607001, Tamil Nadu shall ensure to repay unpaid and unclaimed deposits of non-members held by it, whenever demanded, even after being notified as a non-banking institution.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2024-2025/2087

    MIL OSI Economics –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash at Beaufort

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police and emergency services are at the scene of a serious crash at Beaufort in the state’s mid north.

    About 5.25pm on Thursday 6 February police were called to the Augusta Highway approximately 4km north of Beaufort after reports of a crash.

    The Augusta Highway is closed between Branch Hill Road and Pipeline Road.

    Please be patient with crews in the area.

    Any vehicle larger than a semi-trailer will not be able to access local diversions and will need to park up.

    ​

    MIL OSI News –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Main Media Center of 2025 Asian Winter Games

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

    Main Media Center of 2025 Asian Winter Games

    Updated: February 6, 2025 09:57 Xinhua
    Customers select souvenirs at an official merchandise store in the main press center in the Main Media Center (MMC) of the 2025 Asian Winter Games in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Feb. 5, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Volunteers pass an installation for the 2025 Asian Winter Games at the main press center in the Main Media Center (MMC) in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Feb. 5, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A volunteer passes a decoration for the 2025 Asian Winter Games at the main press center in the Main Media Center (MMC) in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Feb. 5, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Media persons work at the main press center in the Main Media Center (MMC) of the 2025 Asian Winter Games in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Feb. 5, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Volunteers pass an installation for the 2025 Asian Winter Games at the main press center in the Main Media Center (MMC) in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Feb. 5, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Volunteers work at a help desk in the main press center in the Main Media Center (MMC) of the 2025 Asian Winter Games in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Feb. 5, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    The main press center in the Main Media Center (MMC) of the 2025 Asian Winter Games is seen in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Feb. 5, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Five people arrested following incident at Makara property

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Five people have been arrested following an incident at a property in Makara Road, Wellington today.

    Police were called to the residential address at 1.50pm, after a report of a person being threated with a firearm.

    The Armed Offenders Squad was deployed as a precaution and cordons were put in place on Makara Road.

    Three people were arrested as they left the property in a vehicle.

    Two other people who had fled the property on foot were subsequently located by Police nearby and arrested.

    Police are still working to establish exactly what took place at the property, but initial indications suggest those involved are known to each other.

    Nobody was injured during the incident and no charges have been laid at this time.

    Police would like to thank nearby residents on Makara Road for their patience and cooperation while cordons remained in place.

    Residents can expect to see a continued police presence this evening as we continue our enquiries at the Makara Road address.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Teniz Capital to Lead Second Phase of Black Sea Trade and Development Bank Bond Placement on the Astana International Exchange

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Almaty, Kazakhstan, 6 February 2025 – Teniz Capital Investment Banking, a leading investment bank in Central Asia and the Middle East, will lead the second phase of bond placement for multilateral financial institution Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB) on the Astana International Exchange (AIX).

    This follows a first tranche of 100 million USD, completed in 2024, in which Teniz Capital facilitated the transaction. 

    The second tranche will be directed to supporting BSTDB’s funding capacity and enhance investor participation in Central Asian markets.
     
    “Our objective is to open financial opportunities in the Caspian and Central Asia to Western investors. This second placement, which we expect will be closed quite soon, is a clear indicator of market interest in the region, and in its future economic growth,” the management committee of the entity said. 
     
    Founded in 1999, the BSTDB is an international financial institution based in Thessaloniki, Greece. The institution was created to accelerate regional development through financial instruments such as bond issuances. It has 11 member states, including Greece, Russia, Turkey, and Ukraine.
     
    Teniz Capital employs 50 professionals, with its main headquarters in Almaty and additional offices in Astana’s International Finance Centre and Abu Dhabi.
     
    In 2023, Teniz Capital completed 13 bond transactions across in AIX as well the Kazakhstan Stock Exchange. These transactions included JSC AIFN Retam, Capitalleasing Group Ltd., Jet Group Ltd., Kisamos Shipping DMCC, several placements of Kazakhstan’s sovereign bonds, and underwriting complex, high-value transactions.
     
    Last year, on 29 August, the company announced the expansion of its operations with the launch of a sister company, Teniz Capital Brokerage Ltd.

    For further information, members of the media can contact teniz@definition.city

    This press release contains statements regarding the future of the company and its innovations. Statements regarding the future may be accompanied by words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “will”, “anticipate”, “pretend”, “power”, “plan”, “potential”, the use of future time and other terms of similar meaning. No undue reliance should be placed on these claims. These statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected in such statements, including uncertainty of the company’s commercial success, ability to protect our intellectual property rights, and other risks. These statements are based on current beliefs and forecasts and refer only to the date of this press release. The company assumes no obligation to publicly update its forward-looking statements, regardless of whether new information, future events or any other circumstance arise.

    The MIL Network –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: XTransfer and Ecobank Group Partner to Empower African Small and Medium-sized Enterprises’ (SMEs) Foreign Trade

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

    XTransfer and Ecobank Group Partner to Empower African Small and Medium-sized Enterprises’ (SMEs) Foreign Trade XTransfer will leverage Ecobank’s extensive network across Africa, enabling its Chinese clients to collect funds in local African currencies while assisting African SMEs in making payments in their local currencies to negate foreign exchange issues LOMÉ, Togo, February 6, 2025/APO Group/ — XTransfer, the world-leading and China’s No.1 B2B Cross-Border Trade Payment Platform, and Ecobank Group (www.Ecobank.com), the leading private pan-African financial services group with unrivalled African expertise, have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding of Cooperation (MOU) to roll out comprehensive cross-border financial services to Africa’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) engaged in foreign trade. The collaboration will facilitate trade between China and African countries. In recent years, China and Africa have continued to deepen trade cooperation, with the scale of imports and exports rising rapidly. In 2023, bilateral trade reached a record US$282 billion. From January to November 2024, China’s exports to Africa totalled US$160 billion, a 1.4% increase from the previous year, while imports from Africa reached US$107 billion, marking a substantial rise of 6.6%. Despite this growth, African SMEs engaged in foreign trade face numerous challenges related to cross-border payments and fund collections. These challenges include difficulties in opening accounts with traditional banks, a high risk of funds being frozen, difficulties in foreign exchange and related losses, lengthy remittance times and high remittance costs. The partnership between XTransfer and Ecobank Group will foster collaboration between both parties to provide comprehensive cross-border payment solutions for African SMEs’ foreign trade. XTransfer will leverage Ecobank’s extensive network across Africa, enabling its Chinese clients to collect funds in local African currencies while assisting African SMEs in making payments in their local currencies to negate foreign exchange issues. Bill Deng, Founder and CEO of XTransfer, stated, “We are excited about the partnership with Ecobank. This collaboration represents a significant milestone for XTransfer and greatly enhances our global payment capabilities. Leveraging Ecobank’s extensive payment network in Africa will accelerate our business expansion in the region. We are looking forward to the synergies and opportunities this partnership will create. Together, we will drive innovation and improve the financial landscape, making financial services more efficient and accessible for African SMEs.” Jeremy Awori, CEO Ecobank Group, said, “We are proud to partner with XTransfer to advance seamless cross-border payment solutions between Africa and China. This partnership builds on our established strategy, which includes a representative office in China and a dedicated China desk. By integrating XTransfer’s cutting-edge solutions with our pan-African payment platform, we simplify payments, reduce transaction costs, and enable African businesses to thrive in global trade.” The partnership will facilitate trade between SMEs in China and African countries and also streamline foreign trade transactions between African companies and their global partners. Ultimately, this will help reduce the costs of global trade and enhance the global competitiveness of African SMEs. This partnership aligns with Ecobank’s goals of driving financial integration by facilitating seamless cross-border trade, which is the backbone of the continent’s economy growth. By collaborating with XTransfer, Ecobank is strengthening its position as a key player in the global payments industry by reducing trade barriers, enabling African SMEs to thrive in international markets and contribute to the continent’s sustainable development. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated. Media Contact: XTransfer Limited Maggie NG Public Relations Director Tel: +852 6287 2989 Email: maggie.ng@xtransfer.com     Ecobank Transnational Incorporated Christiane Bossom Group Communications Ecobank Transnational Incorporated Email: groupcorporatecomms@ecobank.com Tel: +228 22 21 03 03 Web: www.Ecobank.com About XTransfer: XTransfer, the world-leading and China’s No.1 B2B Cross-Border Trade Payment Platform, is dedicated to providing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with secure, compliant, fast, convenient and low-cost foreign trade payment and fund collection solutions, significantly reducing the cost of global expansion and enhancing global competitiveness. Founded in 2017, the company is headquartered in Shanghai and has branches in Hong Kong SAR, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, the United States, Canada, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, the UAE, and Nigeria. XTransfer has obtained local payment licences in Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR, Singapore, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and Australia. With more than 600,000 enterprise clients, XTransfer has become the industry No.1 in China. By cooperating with well-known multinational banks and financial institutions, XTransfer has built a unified global multi-currency clearing network and built a data-based, automated, internet-based and intelligent anti-money laundering risk control infrastructure centred on SMEs. XTransfer uses technology as a bridge to link large financial institutions and SMEs around the world, allowing SMEs to enjoy the same level of cross-border financial services as large multinational corporations. XTransfer completed its Series D financing in September 2021 and achieved unicorn status. The Company possesses a diverse composition of international investors, including D1 Capital Partners LP, Telstra Ventures, China Merchants Venture, eWTP Capital, Yunqi Capital, Gaorong Capital, 01VC, MindWorks and Lavender Hill Capital Partners. For more information, please visit: https://www.XTransfer.com/ About Ecobank: Ecobank Group is the leading private pan-African banking group with unrivalled African expertise. Present in 35 sub-Saharan African countries, as well as France, the UK, UAE and China, its unique pan-African platform provides a single gateway for payments, cash management, trade and investment. The Group employs over 14,000 people and offers Consumer, Commercial, Corporate and Investment Banking products, services and solutions across multiple channels, including digital, to over 32 million customers. For further information, please visit www.Ecobank.com

    Text copied to clipboard.

    MIL OSI Africa –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing sees surge in intl travelers during Spring Festival

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Beijing experienced a significant influx of international visitors during the Spring Festival holiday, with 450,000 tourists making cross-border trips, up 24.4% from last year, according to the Beijing General Station of Exit and Entry Frontier Inspection.
    The surge began before the holiday, with daily traffic exceeding 70,000 on both Jan. 25 and 26, setting new records.
    During the period from Jan. 24 to Feb. 4, more than 288,000 Chinese travelers made outbound trips, averaging 24,000 daily, a 26.3% increase from 2024.
    Foreign visitors made 98,000 cross-border trips during the same period, up 45.2% from last year. About 16,000 overseas visitors entered China visa-free, accounting for 36.4% of foreign arrivals. The 240-hour visa-free policy has encouraged more international visitors to visit China to experience Spring Festival celebrations.
    Beijing immigration officials used flight forecasting systems to manage border crossings during the holiday rush. The technology helped officials redirect staff and open additional checkpoints during peak periods. They also established a special area with seating for travelers applying for 240-hour temporary entry permits.
    The Spring Festival travel surge coincided with the 2025 Harbin Asian Winter Games. To facilitate the passage of event-related personnel and equipment, officials set up dedicated channels to expedite processing for Games-related personnel and equipment.

    MIL OSI China News –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: EIT Tutors teach invaluable skills to remote islands of Tokelau | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

    Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

    2 minutes ago

    Two EIT tutors have spent six weeks in Tokelau, teaching essential plumbing and automotive maintenance skills to support the remote island community. 

    The program, delivered by Stu Hannam and Chris Olsen last year, focused on equipping locals with the practical knowledge needed to maintain vital infrastructure and improve their quality of life.

    Over the course of their stay, the tutors taught 45 students, repaired 60 outboard motors, 15 cars, 5 motorbikes, 5 chainsaws, generators, and a jackhammer. They also worked on plumbing repairs for community buildings, the local hospital, houses, schools, and a hotel. 

    EIT Automotive Tutor Stu Hannam with students in Tokelau.

    The journey to Tokelau was an adventure in itself. After flying from New Zealand to Samoa on August 31, the pair boarded Mataliki, Tokelau’s ferry, for a 46-hour voyage across rough seas.

    They arrived at the atoll of Atafu on September 6, where they spent 16 days teaching, before moving to Nukunonu, the largest atoll, for another 18 days. 

    For Hannam, an automotive tutor, the trip was about addressing a critical need. “The people didn’t really know how to fix things themselves,” he said.

    “They fixed things only when they broke. I showed them how to service their outboards to make them safe at sea. It’s crucial because they rely on fishing for food and survival.” 

    Olsen, a plumbing tutor, emphasised the importance of water management in the islands.

    “Water is their lifeline. They don’t have natural groundwater, so everything is collected in tanks,” he explained. “We taught them how to fix leaks and install proper spouting to catch rainwater. A lot of the work involved tweaking their existing knowledge and showing them how to do things properly.” 

    The impact of their training extended beyond individual skills. On Nukunonu, the Taupulea (Council of Elders) decided to establish a dedicated plumbing team from Olsen’s graduates.

    “It was awesome to see the community so happy about the knowledge their people gained.” 

    The tutors fully immersed themselves in Tokelauan culture, participating in activities such as church services, a dance competition, and cricket matches.

    “The singing in church was amazing,” Olsen recalled. “And, yes, we got roped into dancing, which was a lot of fun.” 

    For both tutors, the experience was profoundly rewarding.

    “It really reinforced how we, as educators, can make a huge difference in remote communities,” Olsen said.

    Hannam agreed, noting how appreciative the Tokelauan people were. “They’ve told me their motors are running better than ever, and they feel safer going out to fish.” 

    Their time on Nukunonu concluded with a ceremony attended by the Ulu-o-Tokelau (Head of Government), Alapati Tavite, who praised the success of the program. 

    While no official plans to return have been confirmed, both tutors hope this is just the beginning.

    “There’s still a third atoll we didn’t get to because of time constraints,” Olsen said. “If given the chance, we’d love to continue this work.” 

    Andrew McCrory, Assistant Head School of Trades and Technology, said teaching these valuable Plumbing and Automotive Skills was a huge success for EIT and the Tokelauan Communities. 

    “Student engagement and embracing the community is important in these situations, and full credit must go to Chris and Stu for taking time away from their families to make this happen. They have both laid the groundwork for more tertiary education in Tokelau.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New UK High Commissioner to Solomon Islands presents credentials

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Paul Turner was appointed British High Commissioner to Solomon Islands and Nauru in July 2024.

    High Commissioner Paul Turner presenting his credentials to Prime Minister of Solomon Islands Jeremiah Manele.

    His Majesty’s new High Commissioner to Solomon Islands and non-resident High Commissioner to the Republic of Nauru, His Excellency Paul Robert Turner presented his credentials this week to the Prime Minister of Solomon Islands, Hon. Jeremiah Manele.

    Paul Turner was appointed British High Commissioner to Solomon Islands and Nauru in July 2024. Paul’s experience covers the UK Government and international organisations, including the World Bank, African Development Bank and the European Union.

    With the UK Department for International Development (DFID), Paul oversaw economic and trade portfolios in East and Southern Africa as well as in China. More recently, he worked for the World Bank in Uganda. 

    Paul has also led development teams in a range of fragile states including Afghanistan and the Western Balkans. Earlier in his career, he was private secretary to Ministers in DFID and the Home Office. 

    Acknowledging the bilateral relations between the two countries, Prime Minister Manele said UK is one of the first countries to forge ties with Solomon Islands since 1978. He also provided an overview of his government’s priorities including education, health, climate change and trade.

    In response, High Commissioner Paul Turner said that his mission was to expand bilateral relations between the two countries and be a key partner of the Government of Solomon Islands in addressing the impact of climate change.

    The High Commissioner said he was keen to explore opportunities in a number of economic sectors, especially the local cocoa industry and affirmed that one of his personal goals is to produce tangible outcomes in the sector during his time in office.

    The High Commissioner is the UK Government’s representative in a Commonwealth nation. They are responsible for the direction and work of the High Commission and its Deputy High Commissions and/or Consulates, including political work, trade and investment, press and cultural relations, and visa and consular services.

    Share this page

    The following links open in a new tab

    • Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)
    • Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Waitangi Day Address at Ōnuku Marae

    Source: New Zealand Governor General

    Kei aku rangatira o Ngāi Tahu, tēnā koutou. Nāu rā te karanga, kia haramai ahau, i tēnei rā o Waitangi. Nāu anō te tino mōhio, ki te manaaki tangata. Nā reira aku mihi nui. Tēnā koutou katoa.

    I wish to specifically acknowledge: the Right Honourable Christopher Luxon, Prime Minister; the Right Honourable Gerry Brownlee, Speaker of the House of Representatives; Rear Admiral Mathew Williams, Vice Chief of Defence Force; Tā Tipene O’Regan, Member of the Order of New Zealand; Mr Justin Tipa, Chair of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu, and your wider iwi leadership team; Mr Riki Tainui, representative for Ōnuku Rūnanga, and all representatives and whānau from Papatipu Rūnanga across Te Waipounamu.

    And, finally, to all distinguished guests, including representatives from central and local government, and all who have travelled to be here today – tēnā koutou katoa.

    Thank you for inviting me and my husband, Dr Davies, to Ōnuku, this beautiful place, to join with you in commemorating Waitangi Day this year. I know that the last Governor-General to attend commemorations at Ōnuku was my predecessor, Dame Patsy Reddy, six years ago, and I am honoured to be here today, in this very special part of Aotearoa New Zealand.

    Standing in this place, bearing, as it does, such deep history, and looking out at this harbour, of such astonishing beauty, I cannot help but be reminded of the whakataukī: ‘Whatungarongaro te tangata toitū te whenua. As people disappear from sight, the land remains.’

    I stand here and I think of those moments so significant in the history of Ngāi Tahu, Te Waipounamu, and Aotearoa, that have taken place here, on this whenua. I picture the HMS Herald entering Akaroa Harbour on the 28th of May 1840, and of Edward Williams and William Stewart coming ashore to explain the document they carried.

    In the following days, your tupuna surely gave deep consideration to what this Treaty might mean for Ngāi Tahu: for their tamariki and mokopuna, and for future generations – many of whom are gathered here today. I imagine Iwihau and Hone Tīkao returning to this place, on the 30th of May 1840, and signing that seventh sheet of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

    Of course, it was also here, 158 years later, that the then Prime Minister, the Right Honourable Jenny Shipley, standing where I am now, delivered the Crown’s apology to Ngāi Tahu – expressing profound regret for the Government’s breaches of Te Tiriti in its dealings with your iwi, and initiating the process of redress and healing.

    I wholeheartedly commend Ngāi Tahu for all that you’ve achieved in these intervening years. You continue to be great leaders, collaborators, and champions, not only for this region, but for all of New Zealand – across the spheres of education and agriculture; business and the arts; innovation and sustainability – and working always with the vision, generosity, and enterprise for which your iwi is so rightly renowned.

    On that note, I wish to take this opportunity to again acknowledge Tā Tipene O’Regan. It has truly been one of the great honours of my term as Governor-General to present you, Tā Tipene, with your Order of New Zealand – our country’s highest civilian honour – for all you’ve done for Ngāi Tahu, and for Aotearoa.

    It was the author and former Governor-General of Canada, John Buchan, who said: ‘The task of leadership is not to put greatness into humanity, but to elicit it, for the greatness is already there.’ Thank you, on behalf of all New Zealanders, Tā Tipene, for the clarity, intelligence, and selflessness of your leadership, and the greatness you have elicited through your service over so many years.

    Across all its endeavours, Ngāi Tahu continues to seek the very best outcomes for your people, and for this precious land. I was deeply impressed by your Climate Change Strategy, emphasising, as it does, not only the urgency of the issues, but a model for principled, collective action in facing them.

    Perhaps most profoundly, it speaks to those often-neglected facts: that we are each a part of the natural world – and that, in the irreversible degradation and loss of the environment around us, we are, in turn, losing some deep and irreplaceable part of ourselves – inhabiting and sharing this beautiful, fragile earth which is our only home.

    I was moved to find that the pou in this whare behind me represent not only rangatira from the Banks Peninsula, but from across the country – including my own tupuna. In doing so, it stands beautifully for the way that, no matter where we may be from, we are bound together as people of Aotearoa: for the enduring nature of the relationship we share, enshrined in our Treaty.

    In such a way, I believe Te Tiriti o Waitangi to be this nation’s taonga: a gift given to us by our tupuna, and our guiding light towards a vision of nationhood conceived, debated, and pledged, at Waitangi, Ōnuku, and across Aotearoa.

    As our minds begin to turn towards 2040, the bicentenary of Te Tiriti, and to the long-term future of this country, it is our rangatahi who will lead us there, guided by our elders. I urge us to do all we can to empower them – to be examples in the way we conduct ourselves; to hold onto our own youthful sense of hope and purpose; and to be there for each other, in the spirit of understanding, goodness, and grace with which our Treaty was signed, here, 185 years ago.

    In this, our national project, I can think of no better guiding principle than the few, very simple lines of New Zealand poet, Jenny Bornholdt:

    Always refer back
    to the heart.
    It is where
    the world 
    began.

    My sincerest thanks once again to Ngāi Tahu for inviting and hosting us so graciously and generously here today. I wish you all the very best for the rest of your day of celebrations, and for your hopes and aspirations for these years ahead.

    He ao te rangi ka uhia, he huruhuru, te manu ka tau. Tēnā tatau katoa.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    February 6, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: ING posts full-year 2024 net profit of €6,392 million and outstanding commercial growth

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ING posts full-year 2024 net profit of €6,392 million and outstanding commercial growth

    Full-year profit before tax of €9,300 million, supported by growing customer base and increase in lending and deposits
    • Mobile primary customer base rises by 1.1 million in 2024 to 14.4 million
    • Net core lending growth of €28 billion, or 4%, and net core deposits growth of €47 billion (7%)
    • Total income of €22.6 billion; double-digit growth in fee income, surpassing €4 billion for the first time
    • Full-year return on equity of 13.0%; proposed final cash dividend of €0.71 per share
     
    4Q2024 profit before tax of €1,771 million with a CET1 ratio of 13.6%
    • Increase of 434,000 mobile primary customers in the fourth quarter, with growth in all markets
    • Total income resilient year-on-year, supported by continuously strong fee income
    • Risk costs remain below our through-the-cycle average, reflecting strong asset quality
    • CET1 ratio decreases to 13.6% following the shareholder distribution announced in October
     

    CEO statement

    “In 2024, we have made very good progress in the implementation of our strategy. We have accelerated growth, diversified our income, provided superior value to customers and continued to play a leading role in supporting our clients’ sustainable transition,” said ING CEO Steven van Rijswijk. “We’re pleased with our strong results and are on track to make the targets as communicated on our Capital Markets Day in June. We have continued to invest in the growth of our business, resulting in a larger customer base and higher revenues, while continuously executing our plans to drive operational efficiencies.

    “We have increased the number of our mobile primary customers by 1.1 million, resulting in a total of 14.4 million mobile primary customers, with Germany, the Netherlands, Spain and Poland especially contributing to the growth. Core lending has also grown across all markets, by €28 billion, with particularly strong growth of €19 billion in our mortgage portfolio, especially in Germany and the Netherlands. Our deposit base has risen by €47 billion, again with contributions from all Retail countries and our Wholesale business. In Wholesale Banking, we have seen strong results from Financial Markets and we have continued investing in our front office and building our product foundations.

    “Total income has increased to a record €22.6 billion and we have posted a net result of €6.4 billion, maintaining a high level after a very strong 2023. Fee income has increased 11% year-on-year, following an increase in both assets under management and in customer trading activity in Retail. Fee income growth in Wholesale Banking was mainly driven by a higher number of capital markets issuance deals for our clients.

    “Sustainability is a priority for our clients and for ING. We have increased our sustainable volume mobilised to €130 billion, up from €115 billion in 2023, showing strong progress against our 2027 target of €150 billion per annum. During the year, we have engaged with more than 1,600 of our Wholesale Banking clients on their transition plans. In Retail Banking, including in Germany, the Netherlands and Australia, we have supported our customers with sustainable mortgages, renovation loans and digital tools, allowing them to identify possible energy upgrades to their homes and connecting them with accredited home renovators.

    “For the coming year, we remain vigilant as we foresee ongoing geopolitical volatility and a fragmented economic outlook. We are confident that we have the right strategy to deliver value to all of our stakeholders by growing our customer base, continuing to diversify our income and supporting clients in their sustainable transitions. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our shareholders for their continued support, our clients for their continued trust and our employees for their hard work and collaboration.”
     
    Further information
    All publications related to ING’s Full year and 4Q 2024 results can be found at the quarterly results page on ING.com. For more on investor information, go to www.ing.com/investors.

    A short ING ON AIR video with CEO Steven van Rijswijk discussing our FY/4Q2024 results is available on Youtube.

    For further information on ING, please visit www.ing.com. Frequent news updates can be found in the Newsroom or via the @ING_news feed on X. Photos of ING operations, buildings and its executives are available for download at Flickr.
     
    Investor conference call, Media meeting and webcasts
    Steven van Rijswijk, Tanate Phutrakul and Ljiljana Čortan will discuss the results in an Investor conference call on 6 February 2025 at 9:00 a.m. CET. Members of the investment community can join the conference call at +31 20 708 5074 (NL), or +44 330 551 0202 (UK) (registration required via invitation) and via live audio webcast at www.ing.com.

    Steven van Rijswijk, Tanate Phutrakul and Ljiljana Čortan will also discuss the results in a media meeting on 6 February 2024 at 11:00 a.m. CET. Journalists are welcome at ING’s Cedar office, Bijlmerdreef 106, Amsterdam. Alternatively, they can dial-in in listen-only mode via +31 20 708 5073 (NL), or +44 330 551 0200 (UK) – quote ING Media Call 4Q2024 when prompted by the operator. The meeting can also be followed via live audio webcast at www.ing.com.
     
    Investor enquiries
    E: investor.relations@ing.com

    Press enquiries

    T: +31 20 576 5000
    E: media.relations@ing.com
     
    ING Profile
    ING is a global financial institution with a strong European base, offering banking services through its operating company ING Bank. The purpose of ING Bank is: empowering people to stay a step ahead in life and in business. ING Bank’s more than 60,000 employees offer retail and wholesale banking services to customers in over 100 countries.

    ING Group shares are listed on the exchanges of Amsterdam (INGA NA, INGA.AS), Brussels and on the New York Stock Exchange (ADRs: ING US, ING.N).

    ING aims to put sustainability at the heart of what we do. Our policies and actions are assessed by independent research and ratings providers, which give updates on them annually. ING’s ESG rating by MSCI was reconfirmed by MSCI as ‘AA’ in August 2024 for the fifth year. As of December 2023, in Sustainalytics’ view, ING’s management of ESG material risk is ‘Strong’. Our current ESG Risk Rating, is 17.2 (Low Risk). ING Group shares are also included in major sustainability and ESG index products of leading providers. Here are some examples: Euronext, STOXX, Morningstar and FTSE Russell.

    Important legal information
    Elements of this press release contain or may contain information about ING Groep N.V. and/ or ING Bank N.V. within the meaning of Article 7(1) to (4) of EU Regulation No 596/2014 (‘Market Abuse Regulation’).

    ING Group’s annual accounts are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union (‘IFRS- EU’). In preparing the financial information in this document, except as described otherwise, the same accounting principles are applied as in the 2023 ING Group consolidated annual accounts. The Financial statements for 2024 are in progress and may be subject to adjustments from subsequent events. All figures in this document are unaudited. Small differences are possible in the tables due to rounding.

    Certain of the statements contained herein are not historical facts, including, without limitation, certain statements made of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on management’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Actual results, performance or events may differ materially from those in such statements due to a number of factors, including, without limitation: (1) changes in general economic conditions and customer behaviour, in particular economic conditions in ING’s core markets, including changes affecting currency exchange rates and the regional and global economic impact of the invasion of Russia into Ukraine and related international response measures (2) changes affecting interest rate levels (3) any default of a major market participant and related market disruption (4) changes in performance of financial markets, including in Europe and developing markets (5) fiscal uncertainty in Europe and the United States (6) discontinuation of or changes in ‘benchmark’ indices (7) inflation and deflation in our principal markets (8) changes in conditions in the credit and capital markets generally, including changes in borrower and counterparty creditworthiness (9) failures of banks falling under the scope of state compensation schemes (10) noncompliance with or changes in laws and regulations, including those concerning financial services, financial economic crimes and tax laws, and the interpretation and application thereof (11) geopolitical risks, political instabilities and policies and actions of governmental and regulatory authorities, including in connection with the invasion of Russia into Ukraine and the related international response measures (12) legal and regulatory risks in certain countries with less developed legal and regulatory frameworks (13) prudential supervision and regulations, including in relation to stress tests and regulatory restrictions on dividends and distributions (also among members of the group) (14) ING’s ability to meet minimum capital and other prudential regulatory requirements (15) changes in regulation of US commodities and derivatives businesses of ING and its customers (16) application of bank recovery and resolution regimes, including write down and conversion powers in relation to our securities (17) outcome of current and future litigation, enforcement proceedings, investigations or other regulatory actions, including claims by customers or stakeholders who feel misled or treated unfairly, and other conduct issues (18) changes in tax laws and regulations and risks of non-compliance or investigation in connection with tax laws, including FATCA (19) operational and IT risks, such as system disruptions or failures, breaches of security, cyber-attacks, human error, changes in operational practices or inadequate controls including in respect of third parties with which we do business and including any risks as a result of incomplete, inaccurate, or otherwise flawed outputs from the algorithms and data sets utilized in artificial intelligence (20) risks and challenges related to cybercrime including the effects of cyberattacks and changes in legislation and regulation related to cybersecurity and data privacy, including such risks and challenges as a consequence of the use of emerging technologies, such as advanced forms of artificial intelligence and quantum computing (21) changes in general competitive factors, including ability to increase or maintain market share (22) inability to protect our intellectual property and infringement claims by third parties (23) inability of counterparties to meet financial obligations or ability to enforce rights against such counterparties (24) changes in credit ratings (25) business, operational, regulatory, reputation, transition and other risks and challenges in connection with climate change and ESG-related matters, including data gathering and reporting (26) inability to attract and retain key personnel (27) future liabilities under defined benefit retirement plans (28) failure to manage business risks, including in connection with use of models, use of derivatives, or maintaining appropriate policies and guidelines (29) changes in capital and credit markets, including interbank funding, as well as customer deposits, which provide the liquidity and capital required to fund our operations, and (30) the other risks and uncertainties detailed in the most recent annual report of ING Groep N.V. (including the Risk Factors contained therein) and ING’s more recent disclosures, including press releases, which are available on www.ING.com.

    This document may contain ESG-related material that has been prepared by ING on the basis of publicly available information, internally developed data and other third-party sources believed to be reliable. ING has not sought to independently verify information obtained from public and third-party sources and makes no representations or warranties as to accuracy, completeness, reasonableness or reliability of such information.

    Materiality, as used in the context of ESG, is distinct from, and should not be confused with, such term as defined in the Market Abuse Regulation or as defined for Securities and Exchange Commission (‘SEC’) reporting purposes. Any issues identified as material for purposes of ESG in this document are therefore not necessarily material as defined in the Market Abuse Regulation or for SEC reporting purposes. In addition, there is currently no single, globally recognized set of accepted definitions in assessing whether activities are “green” or “sustainable.” Without limiting any of the statements contained herein, we make no representation or warranty as to whether any of our securities constitutes a green or sustainable security or conforms to present or future investor expectations or objectives for green or sustainable investing. For information on characteristics of a security, use of proceeds, a description of applicable project(s) and/or any other relevant information, please reference the offering documents for such security.

    This document may contain inactive textual addresses to internet websites operated by us and third parties. Reference to such websites is made for information purposes only, and information found at such websites is not incorporated by reference into this document. ING does not make any representation or warranty with respect to the accuracy or completeness of, or take any responsibility for, any information found at any websites operated by third parties. ING specifically disclaims any liability with respect to any information found at websites operated by third parties. ING cannot guarantee that websites operated by third parties remain available following the publication of this document, or that any information found at such websites will not change following the filing of this document. Many of those factors are beyond ING’s control.

    Any forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of ING speak only as of the date they are made, and ING assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information or for any other reason.

    This document does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to purchase, any securities in the United States or any other jurisdiction.

    Attachment

    • Full ING Group FY/4Q 2024 Press Release (PDF)

    The MIL Network –

    February 6, 2025
←Previous Page
1 … 1,274 1,275 1,276 1,277 1,278 … 1,669
Next Page→
NewzIntel.com

NewzIntel.com

MIL Open Source Intelligence

  • Blog
  • About
  • FAQs
  • Authors
  • Events
  • Shop
  • Patterns
  • Themes

Twenty Twenty-Five

Designed with WordPress