NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Global: Leaders at Paris summit urged to defend international rule of law ‘without fear or favour’

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Leaders from Europe, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea and Türkiye to meet tomorrow in Paris

    The coalition will discuss support for Ukraine and defense against Russian aggression

    Persisting with a selective, inconsistent approach to international law will deprive European leaders’ position of any international credibility

    ‘We watch with alarm as increasingly authoritarian leaders are rising to power across the globe’ – Agnès Callamard

    Speaking ahead of Thursday’s summit in Paris, where a coalition of states bringing together global leaders to discuss support for Ukraine and defense against Russian aggression, Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General, said:

    “As European and other leaders come together to affirm their determination to defend Ukraine against Russia’s war of aggression, Amnesty International calls on them to prioritise justice for Ukraine and center their proposals on human rights protection for all.  

    “Russia has perpetrated all manner of war crimes and violations of international humanitarian law in Ukraine, including deadly deliberate airstrikes on civilians and civilian infrastructure, the torture and enforced disappearance of Ukrainian civilian detainees and prisoners of war, and executions and killings of individuals in Russian captivity. It has also overseen the forcible transfer of children to Russia, the suppression of non-Russian identities and a campaign of harassment and intimidation to ensure compliance with Russian authorities in Crimea and other Russian-occupied territories.

    “We urge leaders at the summit to do all within their power and authority to put a stop to these heinous crimes, protect the people of Ukraine and uphold their rights to justice, accountability, and reparation. We call on the leaders to ensure that those most impacted by Russia’s war of aggression have their voices heard and their needs met.

    “The coalition of European and other states must recognise that their stand for Ukraine is grounded on a broader vision: a vision for the freedom and human security of Ukrainians and all people the world over; a vision grounded in the promise of the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Today’s leaders must defend those standards steadfastly, without fear or favour.

    “In this instance, it is the Russian authorities and Vladimir Putin that are the aggressors. But many world leaders, from Benjamin Netanyahu and Donald Trump to Xi Jinping and Nayib Bukele, are actively undermining the international rule of law. We watch with alarm as increasingly authoritarian leaders are rising to power across the globe – and many of them finding comfort in Presidents Putin and Trump’s shared disdain for international law and willingness to sacrifice justice and victims’ rights.

    “European Leaders must reject the double standards that have become the hallmark of European international policy, painfully evident in its failure to protect the people of Gaza from Israel’s genocide. By failing to enforce international law anywhere, Europe’s leaders help weaken it everywhere.

    “Europe must build a different, broader and much stronger international coalition – one capable of withstanding not only Russia’s belligerent ambitions, but also of protecting human rights, and the multilateral and international legal order. Supporting Ukraine demands that they hold all governments to the same standards they apply to Russia. It demands too that they enforce the arms embargo to Sudan and rectify all instances of double standards. Persisting with a selective, inconsistent approach to international law will deprive the European leaders’ position of any international credibility.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Speaking to Americans about the value of Alberta ties

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Trump vs. Plastic Pollution

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Underwater image of a turtle with plastic on his head. © Troy Mayne / Oceanic Imagery Publications

    In his first month back in the Oval Office, Trump made moves that sent shockwaves in the world of plastic pollution. First, there was the announcement of a 25% tariff on imported steel and aluminum, to which top global plastic polluter The Coca-Cola Company responded by announcing that they would produce even more plastic bottles to counter the increased price of aluminum cans. Then, there was the executive order to “bring America back” to plastic straws by ending federal procurement of paper straws. But perhaps the biggest blow came as unelected billionaire Elon Musk began efforts to dismantle the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the government agency in charge of managing coastal and marine ecosystems, which are heavily threatened by plastic pollution.

    While the paper straws announcement may have received far more media attention than it deserves, we cannot let such ridiculous symbolic distractions take our collective focus away from the most important issue here: the larger systemic crisis of dismantling key government institutions, such as NOAA, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the National Park Service (NPS) among others, which protect the public good. Make no mistake, our efforts to end plastic pollution will continue no matter what obstacles lie ahead. In the absence of strong government leadership to enact effective policies that can address this crisis at the source, however, the battle to end plastic pollution has certainly gotten longer. But it doesn’t have to be this way.

    US Senator Chris Van Hollen (MD) at press conference to defend NOAA

    Take the Coca-Cola announcement. Instead of responding to the rising cost of aluminum by scaling up plastic bottles, Coke could seize this moment as an opportunity to shift a greater portion of its packaging away from single-use altogether and invest in expanding its existing refillable and returnable packaging portfolio. In 2023, the company reported selling 14% of its total beverage volume in reusable packaging already! Coca-Cola is uniquely positioned to scale up its existing reuse systems that already operate successfully around the world. Refillable Coke bottles are used widely in large country markets such as India, Brazil, Chile, the Philippines, and Mexico, among others.

    Similarly, Trump’s executive order about straws (unsurprisingly) misses the point. The debate between paper or plastic – whether it be straws, cups, or takeout containers – bypasses a much more important opportunity to move away from single-use disposable packaging altogether and expand reuse systems. Particularly in the case of packaging that comes into direct contact with food and beverages, both disposable plastic and paper alike have been found to contain harmful chemicals such as PFAS, phthalates, and bisphenols which are linked to a wide range of health issues. Arguing between paper or plastic is wasting precious time while we could be building large scale reuse systems that are better for the environment, human health, and the economy.

    Coca-Cola pioneered the reusable glass bottle system in the 1940s with great success. It knows full well how to operate large-scale reuse and refill systems using glass, which, unlike plastic, poses no health risks to consumers. PET plastic bottles shed microplastics and contain harmful chemicals linked to cancer, hormone disruption, obesity, early puberty in children, reproductive health problems, and declining fertility. Chemicals in plastics cost Americans over $250 billion in annual healthcare. Coca-Cola is contributing to this public health crisis through its use of unsafe levels of antimony – a known carcinogen – and other chemicals in its PET plastic bottles.

    From household brand names like Coca-Cola to bulk packaging manufacturers, businesses are failing to seize the significant economic advantages that come with shifting to reusables (which has just been made easier than ever thanks to recent FDA changes to the federal food code). Unlike what the plastic industry would like us to believe, reuse systems can, in fact, be much better for business than single-use. Converting just 20% of global plastic packaging into reuse models could represent a $10 billion business opportunity, according to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s Reuse: Rethinking Packaging report. The cost savings can be tremendous for even small businesses, which can save an average of $3,000 to $22,000 annually by transitioning from disposables to reusables. Even after accounting for upfront capital and labor costs, data from hundreds of case studies show that businesses that switch from single-use to reuse save money 100% of the time.

    The majority of American voters – Democrats and Republicans – want action to cut plastic pollution and protect our health. And literally zero Americans voted for Elon Musk’s takeover of the federal government. Musk’s DOGE agency has been wreaking havoc for weeks, slashing programs and firing workers who oversee essential services. NOAA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, is the latest victim as hundreds of employees were fired late February. The consequences of this may be dire for plastic pollution as well as broader oceans issues alike.

    Many Americans interact with NOAA every day, maybe without even realizing it. NOAA provides vital services including weather and tide forecasts, extreme weather alerts, as well as fisheries and water quality data that keep people safe and allow businesses to thrive. One of NOAA’s most essential services include weather forecasts, which keep Americans informed about increasingly frequent and severe extreme weather events. In 2024, the USA’s hottest year on record, the cost for the U.S. of these disasters was at least $182.7 billion. NOAA’s timely forecasting saves lives and livelihoods. Losing NOAA’s essential services could result in even greater costs and higher loss of life following the ever increasing extreme weather events. Tourism, transportation, food, retail, and other businesses depend on NOAA to keep their doors open.

    NOAA Fisheries uses the best available science to ensure safe, healthy food and to protect endangered species. When US consumers go to the supermarket to buy seafood, at least 80% of which is imported, NOAA Fisheries’s Seafood Import Monitoring Program (SIMP) is the filter that aims to prevent seafood fraud or seafood tainted with forced labor from ending up in people’s shopping baskets. Americans want to know what they are buying and feeding their families, and they support more transparency and traceability in seafood. At this time, the US government should be expanding this program and strengthening the enforcement of import controls to prevent market access of goods produced by illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing or forced labor. This would also better protect American seafood producers from unfair competition that relies on labor abuses and environmental destruction to keep costs low.

    Thankfully, people are rising up in defense of NOAA, and Greenpeace USA is too. At a recent press conference organized by US Senator Chris Van Hollen (MD), climate and environmental advocates, scientists, and members of Congress, Greenpeace USA was there in solidarity – along with our life-sized sea turtle sculpture! Here she is front and center, despite the plastic straw in her nose and oil spill covering her shell, with a few new friends a sign that says it all: “Trump is polluting our democracy.” To take a stand in support of sea turtles and other endangered marine animals, add your name here to contact your Member of Congress to save NOAA’s programs that are critical to our oceans, coastal communities, and economies. If you represent an organization, you can also consider signing onto this letter to protect NOAA, joining the close to 500 other organizations from around the country. Together, our voices are stronger.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Department of Human Services, IUP Announce Collaboration to Train Future Physicians in Clinical Setting at Torrance State Hospital, Helping to Address Urgent Need for Rural Health Care Workers

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    March 25, 2025 – Torrance, PA

    Department of Human Services, IUP Announce Collaboration to Train Future Physicians in Clinical Setting at Torrance State Hospital, Helping to Address Urgent Need for Rural Health Care Workers

    DHS Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh today joined leadership from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) to announce the signing of a clinical training affiliation agreement for students at IUP’s proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine at Torrance State Hospital. This partnership with IUP will educate and train future osteopathic physicians in a clinical setting at Torrance State Hospital while also addressing the urgent need for health care professionals in rural and underserved communities.

    “I began my career practicing medicine in teaching hospitals in Philadelphia, and I saw firsthand how vital hands-on clinical experience in a real hospital environment was to the medical professionals in training,” said Secretary Arkoosh. “It is our hope that this partnership with IUP will give students the skills they need to promote individuals’ health and wellbeing while contributing to their communities’ health and investing in their future careers. I’m grateful for the work staff at Torrance do every day to support Pennsylvanians, and this partnership with IUP will be a vital part of the rural health solution.”

    Speaker list:
    Phil Mader, Director of State Hospital Operations,
    Stacey Keilman, Chief Executive Officer, Torrance State Hospital
    Dr. Michael Driscoll, President, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
    Secretary Valerie Arkoosh, Department of Human Services
    Jonathan Longwill, District Director for Senator Joe Pittman
    Dr. Daleep Rathore, Interim Chief Medical Officer, Department of Human Services
    Dr. Ryan Smith, Founding Associate Dean of Clinical Affairs, IUP Proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine
    Dr. Miko Rose, Founding Dean, IUP Proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Collins, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Limit Research Theft

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Susan Collins, Tom Cotton (R-AR), Mike Lee (R-UT), John Barrasso (R-WY), and James Lankford (R-OK) introduced the Guarding American Technology from Exploitation (GATE) Act, legislation that would ban foreign scientists from China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and Cuba from visiting or working in Department of Energy National Laboratories without a waiver granted by the Department of Energy and the intelligence community.

    “Sensitive research conducted at Department of Energy National Laboratories is vital to America’s national security and economic development. Allowing foreign scientists from adversarial nations access to this information poses a serious risk of espionage, sabotage, or theft – actions they may be pressured to undertake by the governments of their home nations,” said Senator Collins. “This legislation is a necessary step to prevent our adversaries from gaining unchecked access to critical taxpayer-funded research.”

    In Fiscal Year 2023, 40,000 foreign scientists visited our national labs and approximately 8,000 of those were Chinese or Russian, meaning 1 out of every 5 scientists visiting our national labs were from our most dangerous foreign adversaries. Last Congress, this legislation passed out of Senate Select Committee on Intelligence by a vote of 17-0, but it was not included in the National Defense Authorization Act.

    The complete text of the bill can be read here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: PIMCO Names Janet Yellen and Raghuram Rajan to its Global Advisory Board (GAB); Gordon Brown Becomes Chair

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Janet Yellen served as Treasury Secretary in the Biden Administration and Chair of the Federal Reserve from 2014 to 2018
    • Raghuram Rajan served as the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India and as Chief Economist at the International Monetary Fund
    • Gordon Brown, former UK Prime Minister, becomes Chair of the GAB
    • Ben Bernanke, former Chair of the Federal Reserve, retiring from role as Chair of PIMCO’s GAB after 10 years service
    • Mark Carney, Canadian Prime Minister, also recently stepped down from GAB

    NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., March 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PIMCO, one of the world’s premier fixed income investment managers, announces the addition of Janet Yellen, former U.S. Secretary of the Treasury and Chair of the Federal Reserve, and Raghuram Rajan, former Governor of the Reserve Bank of India and Chief Economist at the International Monetary Fund, to its Global Advisory Board. The Board provides PIMCO with insights on global economic, political, and strategic developments and their relevance for financial markets.

    In addition, Gordon Brown, former UK Prime Minister (2007-2010) and Chancellor of the Exchequer (1997-2007), becomes Chair of the Board. Mr. Brown, who has been a member of PIMCO’s GAB since its founding in 2015, replaces Ben Bernanke, who is retiring after serving 10 years as Chair of the GAB. Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada, previously announced his resignation from PIMCO’s GAB in January, when he announced his candidacy for political office. He had served on the Board since 2020.

    Before serving as the 78th U.S. Secretary of the Treasury from 2021-2025, Secretary Yellen was Chair of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve from 2014 to 2018 and Vice Chair 2010 to 2014. Secretary Yellen has also held positions at Harvard University, the London School of Economics, and the University of California, Berkeley, where she is now professor emeritus. Her extensive contributions to economic policy and research have established her as a leading figure in the field.

    Dr. Raghuram Rajan’s career is distinguished by his influential roles in global economic institutions. He was the 23rd Governor of the Reserve Bank of India from 2013 to 2016 – where he implemented key reforms to stabilize the Indian economy – and was Chief Economist and Director of Research at the International Monetary Fund from 2003 to 2006. He is also a Professor of Finance at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

    “Secretary Yellen and Dr. Rajan’s deep expertise in economic policy make them remarkable additions to our Global Advisory Board,” said Emmanuel Roman, PIMCO’s Chief Executive Officer. “Their insights will be crucial for us as we continue to navigate the complexities of the global economy and assess their potential impact on markets for our clients.”

    “Understanding the complexities and impact of central bank policymaking, international governance and economic conditions on fast-moving markets are critical components of our investment strategy. Secretary Yellen and Dr. Rajan’s invaluable insights and experience, and Prime Minister Brown’s leadership as chair, will provide PIMCO clients with deep expertise and knowledge in assessing investment risk and opportunity,” said Dan Ivascyn, PIMCO’s Group Chief Investment Officer.

    “We also want to thank Chair Ben Bernanke and Prime Minister Carney for their leadership and valued perspectives over many years on the Global Advisory Board during their constant presence at our investment forums and in guidance to our Investment Committee. We will miss their thoughtful insights and wish them well,” said Mr. Roman.

    The Global Advisory Board consists of a diverse group of experts who provide strategic insights into global economic, political, and strategic developments. Secretary Yellen and Dr. Rajan will join Gordon Brown, Joshua Bolten, former White House Chief of Staff, and Michele Flournoy, U.S. defense policy advisor in two U.S. presidential administrations.

    Janet Yellen
    Janet L. Yellen served as 78th Secretary of the Treasury from 2021 through 2025. Previously, she was a Distinguished Fellow in Residence at the Hutchins Center on Fiscal and Monetary Policy at the Brookings Institution. She also served as Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System from 2014 through February 2018, Vice Chair of the Board of Governors from 2010 to 2014 and president and chief executive officer of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco from 2004 to 2010. Dr. Yellen previously served as a member of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System from August 1994 through February 1997, whereupon she was appointed by President Bill Clinton to serve as chair of the Council of Economic Advisers, a post she held until August 1999. Dr. Yellen has written on a wide variety of macroeconomic issues, specializing in the causes, mechanisms, and implications of unemployment. She began her career as an assistant professor at Harvard University and then served as an economist with the Federal Reserve’s Board of Governors before joining the faculty of the London School of Economics in 1978. In 1980 she joined the faculty of the University of California at Berkeley, where she was named the Eugene E. and Catherine M. Trefethen Professor of Business and Professor of Economics, and where she is currently a professor emeritus. Dr. Yellen graduated from Brown University in 1967 and received her PhD in economics from Yale University in 1971. She received the Wilbur Cross Medal from Yale in 1997, honorary degrees from Brown, Bard College, NYU, the London School of Economics and Political Science, the University of Warwick, Yale, the University of Michigan and the University of Pennsylvania. She is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and has served as President of the American Economic Association and the Western Economic Association and a fellow of the Yale Corporation. She is a Distinguished Fellow of the American Economic Association.

    Raghuram Rajan

    Raghuram Rajan is the Katherine Dusak Miller Distinguished Service Professor of Finance at Chicago Booth. He was the 23rd Governor of the Reserve Bank of India between September 2013 and September 2016. Between 2003 and 2006, Dr. Rajan was the Chief Economist and Director of Research at the International Monetary Fund. Dr. Rajan’s research interests are in banking, corporate finance, and economic development. The books he has written include Breaking the Mold: Reimagining India’s Economic Future with Rohit Lamba, The Third Pillar: How the State and Markets hold the Community Behind 2019 which was a finalist for the Financial Times Business Book of the Year prize and Fault Lines: How Hidden Fractures Still Threaten the World Economy, for which he was awarded the Financial Times prize for Business Book of the Year in 2010. Dr. Rajan is a member of the Group of Thirty. He was the President of the American Finance Association in 2011 and is a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. In January 2003, the American Finance Association awarded Dr. Rajan the inaugural Fischer Black Prize for the best finance researcher under the age of 40. The other awards he has received include the Infosys prize for the Economic Sciences in 2012, the Deutsche Bank Prize for Financial Economics in 2013, Euromoney Central Banker Governor of the Year 2014, and Banker Magazine (FT Group) Central Bank Governor of the Year 2016. Dr. Rajan is the Chairman of the Per Jacobsson Foundation, the senior economic advisor to BDT Capital, and a managing director at Andersen Tax.

    About PIMCO
    PIMCO is a global leader in active fixed income with deep expertise across public and private markets. We invest our clients’ capital across a range of fixed income and credit opportunities, drawing upon our decades of experience navigating complex debt markets. Our flexible capital base and deep relationships with issuers have helped us become one of the world’s largest providers of traditional and nontraditional solutions for companies that need financing and investors who seek strong risk-adjusted returns.

    Except for the historical information and discussions contained herein, statements contained in this news release constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may involve a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, including the performance of financial markets, the investment performance of PIMCO’s sponsored investment products and separately managed accounts, general economic conditions, future acquisitions, competitive conditions and government regulations, including changes in tax laws. Readers should carefully consider such factors. Further, such forward-looking statements speak only on the date at which such statements are made. PIMCO undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statements.

    Contact:
    Michael Reid
    PIMCO – Media Relations
    Ph. 212-597-1301
    Email: Michael.Reid@pimco.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Padilla Reintroduce Bill to Modernize Health Care System, Improve Access to Digital Health Services

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and Alex Padilla (D-CA) reintroduced the Health Accelerating Consumers’ Care by Expediting Self-Scheduling (ACCESS) Act to improve patients’ access to modernized health care, provide certainty for patients seeking digital health services, and protect patients’ personal health information.
    “It’s enough to struggle with an illness. Patients should have easy access to the care they need,” said Dr. Cassidy. “There are plenty of tools to provide affordable, quality care. As a doctor, I’m focused on using them.”
    “Every American deserves easy access to physical and mental health care,” said Senator Padilla. “As provider wait times increase, integrating digital health programs into our health care system is essential to efficiently administering care. We cannot let scheduling obstacles prevent Americans in crisis from receiving care when they need it most.”
    The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the demand for digital health services and other innovative practices. Under current law, however, there is no distinction between illegal referral practices and scheduling services that reduce the barriers associated with accessing necessary and appropriate care. The Health ACCESS Act would adjust the Anti-Kickback Statute (AKS) to remove the regulatory ambiguity allowing digital health and appointment booking platforms to work together to better serve patients. Doing so ultimately improves access to care via user-friendly services, expands provider choice and scheduling availability, and enhances the overall health care experience and ecosystem.
    The Health ACCESS Act is supported by Advanced Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery, Boston Medical Center, Brownsville Community Health Center (FQHC), California Children’s Hospital Association, California Hospital Association, Circle Medical, Chronic Care Policy Alliance, Corewell Health, Digital Health New York (DHNY), GoHealth Urgent Care, Grow Therapy, HANYS (Health Assoc of NYS), Healthcare Leadership Council (HLC), Housing Works Community Healthcare (FQHC), Illinois Hospital Association, Indiana University Health, Intermountain Health, LabFinder, Main Line Health, Manhattan Cardiology, Medical Offices of Manhattan, Memorial Hermann Health System, Octave, SohoMD, Spring Branch Community Health Center (FQHC), Stanford Children’s Hospital, and The Dermatology Specialists.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump’s America is facing an Andrew Jackson moment – and it’s bad news for the constitution

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Sean Lang, Visiting Fellow in History, Anglia Ruskin University

    Statue of Andrew Jackson in Layfayette Square, Washington DC. Flickr

    How do you deal with an American president who does not obey the US constitution? The question has arisen because the recent episode where deportation flights carrying Venezuelans were dispatched to El Salvador, despite a court ruling that those flights must not proceed, suggests Donald Trump’s administration has a limited understanding of the separation of powers in the US. A president has no power to defy a court order.

    Similarly, a Brown University medical professor, Rasha Alawieh, was deported to Lebanon because of a perceived sympathy for Hezbollah, despite the fact she had a valid US work visa and despite a judge’s order blocking her removal from the US.

    This administration’s seemingly blatant disregarding of constitutional procedure is not the first time such a problem has arisen. Early in the life of the new republic it was posed by the election to the presidency in 1828 of Andrew Jackson. Jackson, an unashamed populist, harboured deep suspicion of all federal institutions. His belief in states’ rights sometimes trumped his commitment to the union.

    Trump echoes Jackson in many ways. Just as Trump reviles Joe Biden, so Jackson scorned his predecessor, John Quincy Adams. Trump’s attacks on institutions such as USAid and the Department of Education, is echoed by Jackson’s extraordinary war on the Bank of the United States, which he thought too big and grand for a democratic people.

    But the parallels come closest in relation to forced expulsion, whether of individuals in Trump’s case, or of whole peoples in Jackson’s.

    When Europeans established their colonies in the Americas, they justified their presence by asserting the philosopher John Locke’s principle that legal title to land belonged to those who farmed it. Since the native peoples were mostly nomadic hunters, this legal fiction enabled the Europeans and their American successors to seize land while claiming it was theirs “by right”.

    But the peoples of the American southeast – the Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek, Seminole and Cherokee – took the Europeans at their word. They adopted a much more European lifestyle, establishing towns, wearing European clothing, even converting to Christianity. But above all, they started farming the land, even to the point of owning slaves to work on it. They were known, rather patronisingly, as the “five civilised tribes”.

    None of this adoption of western culture would save them, however, when Georgian cotton planters realised, first, that the tribes were sitting on prime cotton-growing land and, subsequently, that there was gold in Cherokee territory. In 1828 the state of Georgia claimed jurisdiction over all the land of the five tribes. Jackson, an old “Indian fighter” and a staunch states-rights southerner who was about to begin his stint as seventh US president, clearly sympathised.

    Jackson’s first State of the Union address made it clear that he intended to remove all the “Indian” tribes to the desert lands west of the Mississippi. In Congress, Jackson’s opponents accused him of betraying the very principles on which the republic had been founded. What had these people done that required their removal – and since they were indeed farmers, why was their right to their own land not to be respected in law?

    Despite these good reasons for these people to be allowed to stay, the 1830 Removal Act passed and the Chickasaw, Choctaw and Creek peoples packed up and left. The Seminole attempted armed resistance but were defeated.

    Supreme Court versus the US president

    The Cherokee took their case to the Supreme Court. The US Supreme Court had originally been intended merely as a final court of appeal, but under its long-sitting chief justice, John Marshall, it had established itself as the ultimate arbiter of what was and was not lawful according to the constitution. And this included acts of the president.

    The court’s new-found constitutional role was deeply resented in the White House as an unacceptable incursion on the rights of the president, even when it ruled in the president’s favour. Now Marshall was being asked to rule on the constitutional legality of Georgia’s claim to the land of the Cherokee people.

    The Cherokee had tried to declare they were a fully independent state, but the court ruled against that. It did, however, find that they constituted a dependent nation within the United States and that, therefore, the State of Georgia had no jurisdiction over them.

    ‘Trail of Tears’: a dark moment in US history.
    Wolfgang Sauber/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA

    Georgia, however, simply ignored the Supreme Court and in 1838 sent in troops to round up and expel the Cherokee people. Some 13,000 people set off on what became known as the “Trail of Tears” – about one-third of them died of weakness, disease and hunger.

    One American officer commented later that: “I fought through the civil war and have seen men shot to pieces and slaughtered by thousands, but the Cherokee removal was the cruellest I ever knew.”

    Jackson was exultant, taunting Marshall that his judgement “has fell still born” and sneering that Marshall had no means of enforcing it. The Cherokee chief, the half-Scottish John Ross, summed up the situation: “We have a country which others covet. This is the only offence we have ever yet been charged with.”

    The Cherokee had found that, if the president chose to ignore it, the US constitution offered no protection to the innocent. It’s a history lesson Greenlanders, Mexicans and Canadians – and indeed many Americans who may fall foul of this administration and seek recourse to the law – would do well to study.

    Sean Lang 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. Trump’s America is facing an Andrew Jackson moment – and it’s bad news for the constitution – https://theconversation.com/trumps-america-is-facing-an-andrew-jackson-moment-and-its-bad-news-for-the-constitution-253047

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General Outlines Four Areas of Focus in Implementing Pact for Future

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    Following are UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ remarks to the informal interactive dialogue on the implementation of the Pact for the Future, in New York today:

    I thank the President of the General Assembly for convening this important dialogue — the first of three in the coming months.  From day one of the Pact for the Future’s adoption, the President has been its active champion.  I deeply appreciate your efforts, Mr. President, and your leadership.

    Adopting the Pact was the beginning of the process, not the end.  Today, I want to focus on what we have done over the last six months — and what we need to do.

    We face a long list of challenges.  Conflicts and climate disasters are intensifying.  The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are far off-track — as is the funding required to achieve them.  Geopolitical divisions and mistrust are blocking effective action, with some actively questioning the value of international cooperation and the multilateral system itself.

    But, let me be very clear.  It is exactly because of these divides and these mistrusts that the Pact for the Future and the two parallel documents are more important than ever.  And the bigger the obstacle, the bigger will be my determination to make things move forward in line with the will expressed by Member States in the Summit of the Future.

    Meanwhile, critical funding is being drastically cut for people in desperate need — with more reductions to come.  Resources are shrinking across the board — and they have been for a long time.

    From day one of my mandate, we embarked on an ambitious agenda to become more effective and cost-effective across our Organization.  Earlier this month, I announced the “UN80” initiative to continue this work and intensify it.

    We’re reviewing efficiencies and improvements to current arrangements, the implementation of mandates handed down by Member States, and structural changes and programme realignment.  All these will contribute for a more effective implementation of the Pact for the Future.

    We’ve wasted no time moving into the implementation phase of the Pact.  From an operational perspective, we established a principal-level steering committee — which I chair — overseeing six working groups focused on action and reforms in key areas:  Sustainable Development Goals acceleration; peace and security; international financial architecture; digital technologies; UN governance; and youth.

    We’ve created two task teams focusing on future generations and the need to look beyond GDP [gross domestic product] as a measure of progress and guide to policymaking.

    And we’re establishing an internal tracking system to monitor our progress on Pact implementation.  Today, I’d like to report on our efforts since the Pact was adopted and outline the work ahead in four areas.

    First, peace and security.  United Nations peace operations help safeguard people and communities in some of the most desperate corners of the world.  The Pact represents a commitment to strengthen tools to prevent and address conflict, to ensure that our peace efforts respond to new and emerging threats.

    In November, I issued a report on peacebuilding which included concrete suggestions to strengthen the Peacebuilding Commission and Fund.  We’re actively working on the second independent progress study on the positive contribution of young people to peace processes.

    And we’re progressing on a review of all forms of peace operations, as requested in the Pact.  Our recent proposals to the Security Council regarding Haiti are a case in point where new approaches can be developed to complex security challenges.

    The review will be an opportunity to help adapt peace operations to today’s realities, and ensure they’re guided by clear and sequenced mandates that are realistic and achievable — with viable exit strategies and transition plans.

    It will also recognize the limitations of our operations where there is little or no peace to keep.  We will also continue pushing forward on other peace-related priorities of the Pact — including disarmament commitments around nuclear, biological and chemical weapons, lethal autonomous weapons and the growing weaponization of outer space.

    And we will continue advocating — including through the intergovernmental negotiations process — for the Pact’s call to make the Security Council more representative of today’s world and more effective in the capacity to promote peace in the world.

    Second, finance for development.  Since the Pact’s adoption, we’ve taken action on several fronts. For example, our resident coordinators and country teams are now mapping out how we can accelerate progress at the national levels in close cooperation with the Governments.

    We’ve begun analysing the impact of military expenditure on the achievement of the SDGs and on our own work at the UN — with a final report out by September.  The Expert Group called for in the Pact to develop measures of progress that go beyond gross domestic product will soon be announced and will work throughout the year before an intergovernmental process takes over in 2026.

    And we’ve been working closely with the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to follow-up on the Pact’s action points addressing improvements to the international financial system.

    Developing countries must be represented fairly in the governance of the very institutions they depend on.  We know the environment is not favourable.  But we must not give up.

    Since the Pact’s adoption, I have also established an expert group to identify practical steps for action on debt.  In the coming weeks, they will propose a list of achievable outcomes — and release a full report in June in advance of the Financing for Development Conference in Spain.

    Debt relief is a central issue if we want the implementation and the Pact for the Future a reality.  At the same time, we will continue advocating to increase the lending capacity of multilateral development banks, to make them bigger and bolder.  This includes both stretching their balance sheets and recapitalization.

    And we must ensure that concessional finance is deployed where it is most needed.  Many of these actions depend on decisions of other multilateral institutions and of Member States, but we will not relent in our constant advocacy for what the Pact for the Future has clearly indicated as the way to pursue.

    Three, youth and future generations. Our efforts must deliver for young people and the generations to come.  The Pact’s central promise to young people is to listen to their concerns and ideas and including them at the decision-making table.

    Following the establishment of a UN Youth Office in 2022, young people played a key role in shaping the Pact’s priorities.  With the Pact’s adoption, we’re now progressing towards establishing a Youth Investment Platform to ensure that national funding mechanisms and investment platforms are focused on the needs of young people.

    And we’re developing core principles to strengthen youth engagement across our work at the United Nations — including by broadening the representation of younger colleagues within our organizational structures.

    Through the Declaration on Future Generations, we’re also looking to the generations yet to be born.  We’ve established a Strategic Foresight Network and Community of Practice to ensure our policies, programmes and field operations are based on long-term thinking.  And later this year, I will appoint a Special Envoy for Future Generations to scale up these efforts.

    Fourth, technology.  We’re implementing the Global Digital Compact’s calls to close all digital divides and ensure all people benefit from a safe and secure digital space.  Artificial intelligence (AI) is a particular focus.

    We’re developing a report on innovative voluntary financing options for AI capacity-building to help the global South harness AI for the greater good, taking into account the recommendations of my High-Level Advisory Body.

    The zero-draft resolution to establish the International Independent Scientific Panel on AI and convene a Global Dialogue on AI Governance was also circulated last week — thanks to the work of the co-facilitators, Spain and Costa Rica.

    I urge the General Assembly to act swiftly to establish this Panel and ensure that AI expertise and knowledge are available to all countries, while supporting the Global Dialogue.  The UN system stands ready to support this work.

    As we push for these priorities, we’re also improving the efficiency and effectiveness of our operations, as called for by the Pact.

    Last fall, we undertook a comprehensive assessment across UN entities to harness the potential of innovation, data analytics, digital transformation and foresight across our work — as called for in the UN 2.0 initiative.

    We’re already seeing results:  from speeding up disaster assessments in the Asia-Pacific [region], to strengthening social security programmes in Malawi, to consolidating information technology functions across the UN system.  This work must continue, especially in light of the funding challenges we face.  We’re counting on your support as we move forward.

    The Pact for the Future is an essential part of this process of constant renewal, as we reshape the multilateral system for the challenges of today’s world.  We cannot dilute our efforts.

    We need to sustain the same spirit and determination in which the Pact was forged and adopted.  We count on you to inform, inspire and guide the implementation work ahead.  Once again, thank you for your ideas and commitment.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: ‘Renewables are renewing economies’, UN chief tells top climate forum

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Climate and Environment

    Ministers from 40 countries met on Wednesday at the first major climate forum of 2025 to discuss progress in renewable energy generation and the rising toll of inaction over rising temperatures. 

    2025 marks a milestone: the tenth anniversary of the Paris Agreement and the deadline for countries to submit their updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), designed to keep the global goal alive of limiting temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

    Addressing the 16th Petersberg Climate Dialogue (PCD) in Berlin – the first official gathering on climate since last year’s COP29 summit in Baku – the UN Secretary-General António Guterres issued a strong call for decisive climate action.

    He said the year had begun against a backdrop of geopolitical instability and widespread cuts to overseas aid budgets.

    “There is much uncertainty and instability in our world,” which is why “every country must step up and play their part,” he emphasised.

    Renewables: A bright spot

    Despite global tensions, Mr. Guterres pointed to a promising development: 2024 was officially a record year for global renewable energy production, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

    Renewables made up over 92 per cent of all new electricity capacity installed last year – equivalent to the total electricity capacity of Brazil and Japan combined.

    Europe’s capacity rose by nine per cent, with Germany contributing over a quarter of that growth. Meanwhile, Africa’s grew by nearly seven per cent.

    “All of this is another reminder of a 21st century truth: Renewables are renewing economies,” Mr. Guterres said. They are “powering growth, creating jobs, lowering energy bills, and cleaning our air.”

    Wind power has dropped in cost by 60 per cent since 2010; solar is now 90 per cent cheaper.

    Clean energy contributed significantly to economic growth in 2023 – accounting for five per cent of India’s GDP growth, six per cent of the US’, and one-third of the EU’s.

    The rising toll of inaction

    Nevertheless, climate challenges are piling up, the UN chief continued.

    “It seems records are shattered at every turn – the hottest day of the hottest month of the hottest year of the hottest decade ever,” Mr. Guterres said.

    Those suffering most are the world’s most vulnerable – grappling with rising food and insurance costs, displacement and growing insecurity.

    The World Meteorological Organization confirmed in late December that 2024 was another year of alarming climate records. For the first time, global temperatures were 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels during a calendar year.

    “Scientists are clear – it is still possible to meet the long-term 1.5 degree limit,” the Secretary-General stressed. “But it requires urgent action. And it requires leadership.”

    Call for ambition

    New NDCs are due by September 2025. These plans must align with the 1.5°C target and collectively cut emissions by 60 per cent by 2035, compared with 2019 levels.

    “These new plans are a unique opportunity to deliver – and lay out a coherent vision for a just green transition,” Mr. Guterres said.

    He reiterated that efforts must be made according to the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities but added: “Everybody must do more.”

    The G20 most industralised nations – responsible for most global emissions – must lead the way.

    The UN Climate Promise is already supporting 100 countries in preparing their next plans. A high-level event in September will take stock of progress and push for greater action.

    Financing action

    Implementation of the COP29 finance agreement is crucial to support developing countries.

    “I count on the leadership of the COP29 and COP30 Presidencies to deliver a credible roadmap to mobilise $1.3 trillion a year by 2035,” said the Secretary-General.

    He also called for doubling adaptation finance to at least $40 billion annually by the end of this year and for serious contributions to the Loss and Damage Fund.

    To get there, stronger collaboration – across governments, societies, and sectors – is vital.

    Looking ahead

    As the Petersberg Dialogue sets the tone for the year ahead, Mr. Guterres issued a final rallying cry:

    “Those who lag behind must not discourage us but rather strengthen our resolve. The rewards are there for the taking, for all those ready and willing to lead the world through these troubled times.”

    “We are at a turning point.  I urge you to seize this moment; and seize the prize,” he concluded. 

    Soundcloud

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Alan Wilson urges Congress to combat prison cell phone threats in bipartisan coalitionRead More

    Source: US State of South Carolina

    (COLUMBIA, S.C.) – South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson has joined a bipartisan coalition of attorneys general from across the country urging Congress to take immediate action to combat a growing threat to public safety: contraband cell phones in prisons. 

    For years, Attorney General Wilson has led on this issue, calling on Congress and the Federal Communications Commission to allow cell phone jamming within state prisons. 

    “For years, in South Carolina and across the nation, prison cells have become command centers for crime. Inmates are using contraband phones to traffic drugs, extort victims, and even order hits,” said Attorney General Alan Wilson. “This isn’t just a talking point—it’s a full-blown crisis. I’m once again calling on Congress: give states the power to jam these phones. Enough talk. It’s time to act.” 

    In a joint letter sent to congressional leaders, Attorney General Wilson and 30 other attorneys general called for the swift passage of H.R. 2350 and Senate companion bill S. 1137, legislation that would allow states to implement cell phone jamming technology in correctional facilities. 

    Despite stringent security measures, inmates across the U.S. continue to use smuggled phones to coordinate violent crimes, direct drug trafficking operations, orchestrate fraud schemes, and intimidate witnesses. A recent national survey found nearly 26,000 contraband phones recovered in state prisons in a single year alone. 

    The proposed legislation would authorize states to deploy jamming systems inside prison walls—without disrupting emergency communications or public cell service. Current federal law prohibits such systems in state prisons, even though the technology is allowed inside federal prisons.

    “This is not a partisan issue—it’s a public safety issue,” Wilson added. “Every day we delay is another day criminals can exploit our prisons to harm the public. We’re calling on Congress to act now.” 

    The letter is being led by the attorneys general of Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, and the U.S. Virgin Islands and joined by South Carolina, Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, Northern Mariana Islands, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia. 

    You can read the letter here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Koreatown-Based Medicare Advantage Provider Seoul Medical Group and Related Parties to Pay More Than $62 Million to Settle False Claims Lawsuit

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – Seoul Medical Group Inc. and its subsidiary Advanced Medical Management Inc., headquartered in the Koreatown area of Los Angeles, have agreed to pay $58.74 million and their former president and majority owner, Dr. Min Young Cha, has agreed to pay $1.76 million for allegedly violating the False Claims Act by causing the submission of false diagnosis codes for two spinal conditions to increase payments from the Medicare Advantage program.

    Renaissance Imaging Medical Associates Inc., a Northridge-based radiology group that worked with Seoul Medical, has also agreed to pay $2.35 million for allegedly conspiring with Seoul Medical Group in connection with the false diagnoses for the two spinal conditions.

    “My office is committed to ensuring that healthcare providers are held accountable for unlawful misrepresentations to Medicare and other healthcare programs,” said Acting United States Attorney Joseph McNally. “As this settlement makes clear, we will diligently pursue those who defraud government programs.”

    “Medicare Advantage is a vital program for our seniors and the government expects healthcare providers who participate in the program to provide truthful and accurate information,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Yaakov M. Roth of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “Today’s result sends a clear message to the Medicare Advantage community that the United States will zealously pursue appropriate action against those who knowingly submit false claims for taxpayer funds.”

    Under Medicare Advantage, also known as the Medicare Part C program, Medicare beneficiaries have the option of enrolling in managed care insurance plans called Medicare Advantage Plans (MA Plans) and the MA Plans contract with healthcare providers, such as Seoul Medical Group, to provide the Medicare-covered benefits. MA Plans are paid a per-person amount to provide the care to their enrollees and, in turn, the MA Plans pay the providers.

    The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), which oversees the Medicare program, adjusts the payments to MA Plans based on demographic information and the health diagnoses of each plan beneficiary. The adjustments are commonly referred to as “risk scores.” In general, a beneficiary with diagnoses that are more expensive to treat will have a higher risk score, and CMS will make a larger risk-adjusted payment to the MA Plan for that beneficiary.

    Seoul Medical Group is a healthcare provider that started in 1993 in Los Angeles and has since expanded into at least six states and has employed at times 150 primary care providers and 1,000 specialists. Dr. Min Young Cha started Seoul Medical Group and until 2023 was president and majority owner. 

    The United States alleged that, from 2015 to 2021, Seoul Medical Group and Dr. Cha submitted diagnoses for two severe spinal conditions, spinal enthesopathy and sacroiliitis, for patients who did not suffer from either of these conditions. When Seoul Medical Group was questioned by an MA Plan about its use of spinal enthesopathy, Seoul Medical Group enlisted the assistance of Renaissance Imaging Medical Associates to create radiology reports that appeared to support the spinal enthesopathy diagnosis. Both diagnoses resulted in an increase in payment from CMS to the MA Plan, and the MA Plan then passed along a portion of the increased payment to Seoul Medical Group. 

    “Providers who game the Medicare program to increase profit undermine the foundation of care and diminish patient trust in the nation’s public health care system,” said Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement partners and rigorously probe false claims to the fullest extent possible.”

    The civil settlement resolves claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by Paul Pew, the former Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Advanced Medical Management. Under those provisions, a private party can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. The qui tam case is captioned United States of America ex rel. Pew v. Seoul Medical Group, Inc., et al., No. 2:20-cv-05156 (C.D. Cal.). The relator’s share of the settlement has not yet been determined.

    The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California, with assistance from the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General.

    The investigation and resolution of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement, can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).

    Assistant United Sates Attorney Karen Y. Paik of the Civil Division’s Civil Fraud Section and Trial Attorneys J. Jennifer Koh and Robbin O. Lee of the Justice Department’s Fraud Section investigated this matter.

    The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bay Area-Based Flooring Company and Its Owners to Pay $8.1 Million to Settle False Claims Allegations Related to Customs Duties Evasions

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – Evolutions Flooring Inc., a South San Francisco, California based importer of multilayered wood flooring, and its owners, Mengya Lin and Jin Qian, have agreed to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by knowingly and improperly evading customs duties on imports of multilayered wood flooring from the People’s Republic of China (PRC). The settlement is based on Evolutions’ and its owners’ ability to pay.

    To enter goods into the United States, an importer must declare, among other things, the country of origin of the goods, the value of the goods, whether the goods are subject to duties, and the amount of duties owed.

    U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) collects applicable duties, including antidumping and countervailing duties assessed by the Department of Commerce and Section 301 duties imposed by the Office of the United States Trade Representative. Antidumping duties protect against foreign companies “dumping” products on U.S. markets at prices below cost, while countervailing duties offset foreign government subsidies.

    Section 301 duties similarly protect U.S. industry by imposing trade sanctions on foreign countries that violate U.S. trade agreements or engage in other unreasonable acts that burden U.S. commerce. During the relevant time period, PRC-manufactured multilayered wood flooring products were subject to antidumping, countervailing, and Section 301 duties.

    The settlement resolves allegations that Evolutions, at the direction of Lin and Qian, knowingly and improperly evaded customs duties, including antidumping, countervailing, and Section 301 duties, on multilayered wood flooring manufactured in the PRC that Evolutions imported between Sept. 1, 2019 and July 31, 2022. Among other things, the United States alleged that Evolutions caused false information to be submitted to CBP regarding the identity of the manufacturers and country of origin of the imported multilayered wood flooring.

    “The outcome of this case demonstrates that our office and its CBP partners will continue to safeguard the nation’s economic well-being,” said Acting United States Attorney Joseph McNally. “Fraud in international commerce deprives the United States of vital revenue and creates an unfair advantage over businesses that operate legitimately. The settlement sends a message that we will not stand aside when companies try to cheat the system.”

    “Import duties provide an important source of government revenue and level the playing field for U.S. manufacturers against their global competitors,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Yaakov M. Roth of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The department will pursue those who seek an unfair advantage in U.S. markets, including by evading the duties owed on goods imported into this country from China.”

    “The team at CBP was instrumental in providing expertise and logistical support to this investigation,” said Director of Field Operations Cheryl M. Davies of the CBP Los Angeles Field Office. “Through its efforts, which included a site visit to factories in Thailand, review of identified shipments by CBP experts on multilayered wood flooring, an analysis of import records and data by Office of Trade Regulatory Audit, and involvement in interviews with witnesses, CBP contributed to a successful outcome in this matter.”

    The settlement with Evolutions and its owners resolves a lawsuit filed by Urban Global LLC under the whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in a portion of the government’s recovery. The civil lawsuit was filed in the Central District of California and is captioned United States of America ex rel. Urban Global LLC v. Struxtur Inc. et al., No. CV20-7217 (C.D. Cal.). As part of today’s resolution, relator Urban Global LLC will receive approximately $1,215,000 of the settlement proceeds.

    The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California, with assistance from CBP’s Office of Chief Counsel, West Region and Trade Regulatory Audit and the Center of Excellence and Expertise for Industrial and Manufacturing Materials within CBP’s Office of Trade.

    Assistant United States Attorney Sheng-Wen D. Jui of the Civil Division’s Civil Fraud Section and Senior Trial Counsel Christelle Klovers of the Justice Department’s Civil Division handled this case.

    The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Quadient SA: FY 2024 results: Solid 1st year delivery of “Elevate to 2030” strategic plan, with Digital Solution achieving €267m in revenue and 61% EBITDA growth to €47m

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Quadient FY 2024 results:
     Solid 1st year delivery of “Elevate to 2030” strategic plan, with Digital Solution achieving €267m in revenue and 61% EBITDA growth to €47m

    Key highlights

    • FY 2024 financial targets achieved
    • Two operating profitability milestones reached:
    • Digital EBITDA margin at 17.5%, up 5.7pts yoy, reflecting strong profitability improvement
    • All three solutions are EBITDA positive
    • Consolidated sales of €1,093 million, up +2.8% on a reported basis, including the contribution of the latest acquisitions
    • FY 2024 subscription-related revenue up +10.2% in Digital and up +11.5% in Lockers
    • FY 2024 subscription-related revenue of €777m, representing 71% of total revenue, up +€30m yoy,
      vs. +      €90m 2026 target
    • FY 2024 Group current EBIT of €146 million, up +2.2% organically
    • Proposed dividend of €0.70 per share, up by €0.05 for the fourth consecutive year
    • FY 2025 outlook: acceleration both in organic revenue growth and in current EBIT organic growth vs. 2024

    Paris, 26 March 2025

    Quadient S.A. (Euronext Paris: QDT), an Intelligent automation platform powering secure and sustainable business connections, today announces its 2024 fourth-quarter consolidated sales and full-year results (period ended on 31 January 2025). The full year 2024 results were approved by the Board of Directors during a meeting held on 25 March 2025.

    Geoffrey Godet, Chief Executive Officer of Quadient S.A., stated: “We have delivered a solid first year of our Elevate to 2030 strategic plan.

    Our Digital Automation platform has reached the record level of c.€270 million in revenue thanks to both the addition of 2,600+ new customers and the contribution from the increased usage and upsell from our existing 16,500 customer base. This strong revenue increase has been delivered together with a significant improvement in profitability with EBITDA rising by 61% to reach €47 million. We are now in a good position to exceed the 20% EBITDA margin ambition set for 2026.

    2024 also saw the highest level of Digital cross-sold deals into our Mail customer base while at the same time our Mail business continues to outpace competition. In Lockers, investments made over the past couple of years are paying off, contributing to a strong performance in H2 with double digit growth in revenue thanks to increased usage of the locker base across all regions. In addition, Lockers have reached EBITDA breakeven over the full year and profitability will further improve as we continue to increase the size of our network, grow its usage and take advantage of the recent addition of Package Concierge in the US residential sector.

    At Company level, this solid performance translates into a €30 million increase in annual recurring revenue, well on track to deliver the €90 million increase targeted by 2026. Based on this solid start to the strategic plan, we are confident in our ability to continue building a €1bn recurring revenue platform by 2030, generating €250 million current EBIT. Therefore, we are proposing to increase our dividend for the fourth consecutive year in a row, to €0.70.

    While macro uncertainties have recently been growing, we are expecting an acceleration of organic growth in revenue and current EBIT in 2025 against 2024 levels.”

    Comments on FY 2024 performance

    Group sales came in at €1,093 million in FY 2024, a +2.8% increase on a reported basis, and +0.4% organic growth compared to FY 2023, in line with Quadient’s expectations. The reported growth includes a positive currency impact of €2 million and a positive scope effect of €24 million, which is related to the acquisitions of Daylight (September 2023), Frama (February 2024) and Package Concierge (December 2024).

    In the fourth quarter of 2024, reported revenue growth stood at +4.1% and organic revenue growth was broadly flat, at -0.2%, compared to Q4 2023.

    Subscription-related revenue reached €777 million in FY 2024, growing +1.6% organically, and representing 71% of total sales. This represents a €30 million increase year-on-year (compared to the +€90 million target by 2026), progressing toward the €1 billion subscription-related revenue target by 2030. Performance in the fourth quarter of 2024 was steady, up 2.1% organically against Q4 2023, driven by a double-digit organic increase in Digital and in Lockers. Non-recurring revenue declined by 2.4% organically in FY 2024, including a 5.1% decline in Q4 2024, essentially due to a high comparison basis in Mail hardware sales.

    By geography, North America (58% of revenue) continued to outperform other regions with a +2.8% organic growth achieved in FY 2024.

    Consolidated sales and EBITDA by Solution

    FY 2024 consolidated sales

    In € million FY 2024 FY 2023 Change Organic change
    Digital 267 245 +9.1% +7.7%
    Mail 732 729 +0.4% (2.5)%
    Lockers 94 88 +5.7% +4.3%
    Group total 1,093 1,062 +2.8% +0.4%

     

    EBITDA and EBITDA margin

      FY 2024 FY 2023
    In € million EBITDA EBITDA margin EBITDA EBITDA margin
    Digital 47 17.5% 29 11.8%
    Mail 200 27.4% 218 29.9%
    Lockers 1 0.6% (3) (3.0)%
    Group total 247 22.6% 244 23.0%
     

    Digital

    In FY 2024, revenue from Digital reached €267 million, up 7.7% organically (+10.1% in Q4 2024 vs. Q4 2023) and up 9.1% on a reported basis (including the contribution from Daylight) compared to FY 2023.

    This solid performance was driven by a strong 10.2% organic growth in subscription-related revenue in FY 2024 (+10.5% in Q4 2024 vs. Q4 2023), including a good contribution from North America and continued positive commercial trends across the platform with further solid cross-selling and up-selling. In FY 2024, subscription-related revenue was representing 82% of Digital total sales, a further increase compared to 80% in FY 2023.

    At the end of FY 2024, annual recurring revenue (ARR), which is a forward-looking indicator of future subscription-related revenue, reached €232 million, up from €206 million at the end of FY 2023, representing a 12.7% organic growth.

    EBITDA for Digital was €47 million in FY 2024, up +61% year-on-year. EBITDA margin was at 17.5%, a strong improvement of 5.7 points compared to FY 2023. In H2 2024, EBITDA margin further improved, reaching 19.1%, after 15.7% in H1 2024. This positive evolution in profitability reflects the combination of subscription-related revenue growth and platform maturity. The Digital solution is well on track to reach its target of EBITDA margin greater than 20% in 2026.

    As part of its customer acquisition strategy, Digital continues to demonstrate strong commercial momentum. Over
    2,600 new customers were added     in FY 2024 thanks in particular to robust cross-selling with Mail, especially in North America. Digital experienced a dynamic fourth quarter, with several key deals secured in the US. Additionally, a new partnership was established with Avaloq to deliver Customer Communications Management capabilities to the financial services industry.

    As part of the customer expansion process, the focus continues to be on further increasing up-selling, notably in financial automation process. Several platform innovations have been made, to bring added value to customers, including the ramp-up and extension of Repay for direct supplier invoice payments in the US and Canada, and new electronic invoice formats (UBL, CII, Factur-X) to align with upcoming European e-invoicing regulation.

    In Quadient’s core geographies, the addressable demand for its Digital automation platform is set to grow from
    c.€6 billion in 2023 to c.€9 billion in 2027, representing a +10% CAGR, creating substantial growth opportunities in both communication and financial automation.

    To capture this growth, Quadient is strongly positioned, leveraging on:

    • a sound base of highly predictable business, with over 16,500 customers, 82% subscription-based revenue,
      and a churn rate well below 5%,
    • a highly recognized platform in financial & communication automation, and 84.5% of Saas customers,
      across three regions,
    • a fully scalable and modulable platform, for small to large customers, driving new client acquisition (+2,600 in FY 2024) and record cross-sell of Digital solutions into Quadient Mail customers and increased upsell opportunities among existing customers,
    • an efficient go-to-market organisation that driving a 34% year-on-year increase in bookings in Q4 2024 and +12.7% growth of ARR at the end of the year.

    Mail

    Mail revenue reached €732 million in FY 2024, down 2.5% on an organic basis (-4.6% in Q4 2024 vs. Q4 2023). The reported growth stood at +0.4%, including the contribution of Frama.

    Hardware sales recorded a minor -1.7% organic decline in FY 2024, despite a 7.3% drop registered in Q4 2024, mainly reflecting a high comparison basis related to deals signed in H2 2023.

    Subscription-related revenue (68% of Mail sales) recorded a 2.9% organic decline in FY 2024.

    EBITDA for Mail was €200 million for FY 2024. EBITDA margin reached 27.4%, down 2.5 points compared to FY 2023. Mail EBITDA margin was impacted by the dilutive effect of Frama acquisition, including integration costs. Frama’s performance is due to improve significantly from 2025 onward, with positive current EBIT already reached in FY 2024 and payback of the acquisition expected in FY 2025.

    Thanks to its strong focus on customer acquisition, Quadient’s Mail business continues to outperform the market. In Q4 2024, commercial performance remained resilient in North America, particularly in highly regulated industries where secure mail communications are key.

    As part of the customer expansion focus, outlook remains strong driven by a high customer satisfaction rate of 95.7% and robust cross-selling performance, especially in the US where a record-breaking performance in placement of Digital solutions was recorded in Q4 2024. Mail business also benefited from the positive impact of the ongoing US mailing systems decertification, though this impact is expected to conclude in Q1 2025. Lastly, Quadient aims at upgrading Frama’s installed base and initiating some cross-selling to promote its Digital offer to Frama’s customers.

    At the end of January 2025, already 42.4% of Quadient installed base has been upgraded with its newest technology.

    Lockers

    Lockers revenue reached €94 million in FY 2024, a +4.3% increase on an organic basis, with strong momentum in the latter part of the year (+8.0% in Q4 2024 vs. Q4 2023, after a strong Q3 2024, up +14.3% year-on-year) and a +5.7% increase on a reported basis compared to FY 2023, including a marginal contribution from Package Concierge.

    Subscription-related revenue was up 11.5% organically in FY 2024 (+19.6% in Q4 2024 vs. Q4 2023), benefiting from:

    • the continued strong volumes ramp up in the British and the French open networks;
    • the sustained strong momentum in the US, driven by higher monetization of usage fees;
    • a resilient performance in Japan, despite an unfavorable e-commerce environment.

    Overall, subscription-related revenue stood at 64% of total revenue in FY 2024, up from 61% in FY 2023.

    Non-recurring revenue (license & hardware sales and professional services) were down 6.8% organically in FY 2024. Hardware sales were still impacted by slower new installations in North America.

    Quadient’s global locker installed base reached c.25,700 units at the end of FY 2024, including c. 3,000 units from Package Concierge, vs. c.20,200 units at the end of FY 2023. This is reflecting an acceleration in the pace of installation of new lockers, notably in the UK, fueled by the partnerships signed by Quadient to host parcel lockers in new suitable locations.

    EBITDA for Lockers was above breakeven, at €1 million in FY 2024. EBITDA margin stood at 0.6%, up by 3.6 points compared to FY 2023. This significant profitability improvement, illustrated by a 6.7% EBITDA margin in H2 2024, was driven by growing recurring revenue and increased usage. Additionally, the revised commercial agreement with Yamato for the Japanese installed base was implemented at the beginning of H2 2023.

    As part of the customer acquisition focus, Quadient is accelerating the pace of installation for new lockers in its open networks in Europe, mostly in France and the UK, with installed base up 145% year-on-year. This is supported by the additional deals signed for premium locations (including Morrisons Daily Stores and ScotRail…). Additionally, the trend for new installations in North America has turned positive in Q4, where market share leadership position in Residences and Universities remains robust.

    As part of the customer expansion strategy, volumes from both pick-up and drop-off in European open networks saw a significant increase, growing sevenfold between Q4 2023 and Q4 2024. The momentum in North America for the locker network, particularly across the multifamily sector and higher education campuses was strong in Q4 2024. In Japan, macroeconomic conditions have impacted parcel volumes, but new initiatives, such as the new partnership with Japan Post, are aimed at driving volume growth and increasing adoption.

    REVIEW OF 2024 FULL-YEAR RESULTS

    Simplified P&L

    In € million FY 2024 FY 2023 Change
    Sales 1,093 1,062 +2.8%
    Gross profit 818 788 +3.7%
    Gross margin 74.8% 74.2%  
    EBITDA 247 244 +1.2%
    EBITDA margin 22.6% 23.0%  
    Current EBIT 146 147 (0.5)%
    Current EBIT margin 13.4% 13.8%  
    Optimization expenses and other operating income & expenses (23) (15) +58.0%
    EBIT 123 132 (7.0)%
    Financial income/(expense) (39) (31) +24.8%
    Income before tax 84 101 (16.8)%
    Share of results of associated companies 1 (0) n/a
    Income taxes (17) (17) +2.8%
    Net income of continued operations 68 84 (19.4)%
    Net income from discontinued operations (0) (14) (98.7)%
    Net attributable income 66 69 (3.4)%
    Earnings per share 1.94 2.02  
    Diluted earnings per share 1.94 2.01  
     

    Gross margin stood at 74.8% in FY 2024 slightly up compared to FY 2023, due to lower cost of sales.

    EBITDA(1) for the Group reached €247 million in FY 2024, up €3 million compared to FY 2023. EBITDA grew by 3.0% organically, driven by strong growth of 80% in Digital and improved profitability in Lockers, which more than compensated for the softer EBITDA performance in Mail. The EBITDA margin reached 22.6% in FY 2024. It was almost stable compared to FY 2023: despite the impact of the change in revenue mix and the dilutive effect of Frama acquisition, the Group EBITDA margin was supported by significant profitability gains in Digital and Lockers.

    Depreciation and amortization stood at €101 million in FY 2024, compared to €98 million in FY 2023. This slightly higher depreciation mainly reflects the increase in Lockers’ asset base.

    Current operating income (current EBIT) reached €146 million in FY 2024 compared to €147 million in FY 2023, up 2.2% on an organic basis. Current EBIT margin stood at 13.4% of sales in FY 2024 compared to 13.8% in FY 2023.

    Optimization costs and other operating expenses stood at €23 million in FY 2024, versus €15 million in FY 2023. This increase mainly relates to the write-off of an IT project, additional office optimization and Frama restructuring costs.

    Consequently, EBIT reached €123 million in FY 2024, versus €132 million recorded in FY 2023.

    Net attributable income

    Net cost of debt was up from €29 million in FY 2023 to €39 million in FY 2024, impacted by higher interest rates. The currency gains & losses and other financial items was broadly flat in FY 2024, compared to a loss of €2 in FY 2023. Overall, net financial result was a loss of €39 million in FY 2024 compared to a loss of €31 million in FY 2023.

    Income tax expense was stable year-on-year at €17 million.

    Net income from discontinued operations of the Mail Italian subsidiary was null in FY 2024, compared to a €14 million loss in FY 2023. This loss included exceptional charges related to the sale process for this subsidiary, which was sold to a local mail distribution company in October 2024.

    Net attributable income after minority interests amounted to €66 million in FY 2024 compared to €69 million in FY 2023.

    Earnings per share(2) stood at €1.94 in FY 2024 compared to €2.02 in FY 2023. The fully diluted earnings per share(2) was €1.94 in FY 2024 compared to €2.01 in FY 2023.

    Cash flow generation

    The change in working capital was a net cash inflow of €9 million in FY 2024 compared to a net cash outflow of €6 million in FY 2023, mostly reflecting the positive impact from timing on prepaid expenses and customers deposits.

    The leasing portfolio and other financing services stood at €623 million as of 31 January 2025, compared to €598 million as of 31 January 2024, up on an organic basis (i.e. excluding currency impact of €18 million) for the first time in several years thanks to good hardware placements in Mail. While generating future subscription-related revenue, this increase in lease receivables resulting from the good performance in the placement of new equipment translates into a cash outflow of
    €7 million in FY 2024. At the end of FY 2024, the default rate of the leasing portfolio stood at around 1.1% compared to c.1.3% at the end of FY 2023.

    Interest and taxes paid increased to €67 million in FY 2024 versus the amount of €55 million paid in FY 2023. The difference was mostly explained by higher interest rates in FY 2024.

    Capital expenditure reached €108 million in FY 2024, up €7 million compared to FY 2023, mostly due to UK locker open network deployment. Capex for Digital reached €24 million in FY 2024, slightly up compared to €22 million in FY 2023 and was mainly focused on R&D and platform development. Capex for Mail remained at fairly high level of €51 million
    (vs. €53 million in FY 2023), due to continued high placement of machines related to the US decertification, which is expected to end in Q1 2025. Capex for Lockers increased from €26 million to €33 million to support the ramp-up of the deployment of the open network in the UK. The sale of Frama real estate in Switzerland generated €6 million in cash inflows in FY 2024.

    All in all, cash flow after capital expenditure (free cash flow) reached €66 million in FY 2024, compared to €64 million in FY 2023.

    Leverage and liquidity position

    Net debt stood at €741 million as of 31 January 2025, a slight increase against €709 million as of 31 January 2024. In FY 2024, Quadient successfully raised approximately €325 million in new facilities, including the following transactions in H2 2024:

    • in October 2024, the Company secured EBRD financing, including a €25 million Schuldschein;
    • in December 2024, the Company secured a USD 50 million bank loan;
    • in January 2025, Quadient further strengthened its financial position with the issuance of a USD 100 million USPP.

    These new facilities enabled Quadient to repay post-closing its €260 million bond due in February 2025 and settle the repayment of Schuldschein loans for €29 million, also due in early 2025. As a result of these transactions, the Company’s average debt maturity has been extended to four years as of the end of February 2025, compared to three years at the end of FY 2023.

    The leverage ratio (net debt/EBITDA) remained broadly stable at 3.0x(3) as of 31 January 2025 compared to 2.9x(3) as of 31 January 2024. Excluding leasing, Quadient leverage ratio remained stable at 1.7x(3) as of 31 January 2025, despite the acquisitions of Frama and Package Concierge in 2024, as well as the implementation of a share buyback programs.

    As of 31 January 2025, the Group had a strong liquidity position of €667 million, split between €367 million in cash and a €300 million undrawn credit line, maturing in 2029.

    Shareholders’ equity stood at €1,113 million as of 31 January 2025 compared to €1,069 million as of 31 January 2024. The gearing ratio(4) stood at 66.6% as of 31 January 2025.

    SHAREHOLDER’ RETURN

    Proposed dividend for FY 2024 stands at €0.70 per share, representing an 8% increase against FY 2023, and a payout ratio of 36.1% of net income, higher than Quadient’s minimum 20% pay-out ratio of net income as per the Group’s dividend policy. This represents a €0.05 year-on-year increase, for the fourth consecutive year. The dividend is subject to approval by the Annual General Meeting, scheduled for 13 June 2025, and will be paid in cash in one instalment on 6 August 2025.

    In addition, Quadient’s announced in September 2024 the launch of a share buyback program for a total consideration of up to €30 million. To date, €10 million worth of shares have been repurchased, with the program set to be executed over an
    18-month(5) period. This operation demonstrates Quadient’s confidence in the value creation potential of its “Elevate to 2030” strategic plan, its ability to reach its FY 2026 leverage ratio target(6) and is in line with the capital allocation policy of the Company, while improving shareholders’ return.

    OUTLOOK

    The evolving dynamics within Quadient’s business portfolio, characterized by strong growth in Digital and Lockers revenue alongside a moderate decline in Mail revenue, will naturally drive a year-on-year acceleration in the Company’s total revenue growth.

    As Digital and Lockers continue to expand their share of Quadient’s revenue and profit, while simultaneously improving their profitability, this shift is expected to contribute to a higher growth in current EBIT

    As a result, Quadient targets an acceleration in organic revenue growth and in current EBIT organic growth in 2025 compared to 2024.

    Quadient also confirms its 3-year guidance for the 2024-2026 period of minimum 1.5% organic revenue CAGR and minimum 3% organic current EBIT CAGR.

    Q4 2024 BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS

    Avaloq and Quadient Partner to Elevate Client Communications for Financial Services
    On 3 December 2024, Quadient and Avaloq announced today their partnership to offer unrivaled customer communications management (CCM) capabilities for the financial services industry. Avaloq has selected Quadient Inspire as its standard CCM solution, seamlessly integrating it into the Avaloq platform.

    Quadient Launches SimplyMail in Europe to Help Small Businesses Leverage Digital Solutions to Enhance Efficiency in Mail Operations
    On 11 December 2024, Quadient announced the launch in Europe of SimplyMail, a solution designed to address the growing needs for smaller businesses to automate and optimize their mail operations with ease.

    Quadient Named a Worldwide Automated Document Generation and CCM Leader by IDC
    On 12 December 2024, Quadient announced it has been named a Leader in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Automated Document Generation and Customer Communication Management 2024 Vendor Assessment.

    Quadient Recognized in Two IDC MarketScape Reports for Accounts Receivable Automation Applications
    On 16 December 2024, announced it has been named a Leader in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Accounts Receivable Automation Applications for Small and Midmarket 2024 Vendor Assessment. Additionally, Quadient has been recognized for the first time as a Major Player in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Accounts Receivable Automation Applications for the Enterprise 2024 Vendor Assessment.

    Quadient Surpasses 25,000 Global Locker Installations with US Package Concierge Acquisition, Setting Sights on Exceeding €100M of Locker Revenue in 2025
    On 18 December 2024, Quadient announced the acquisition of US-based parcel management solutions provider Package Concierge®, exceeding the 25,000-unit mark in its global installed base. Package Concierge provides innovative digital locker technology that addresses the growing challenges of package management in residential, commercial, retail and university campuses across the United States.

    Quadient strengthens its financial position with a USD50 million bank loan from Bank of America
    On 20 December 2024, announced a USD50 million bank loan from Bank of America. This new credit facility, which comes with a 3-year maturity at a variable rate, strengthens Quadient’s financial position ahead of debt maturities due in 2025.

    Report by Leading Analyst Firm Shows Quadient Recorded the Fastest Growth in 2023 Among CCM Market Leaders
    On 10 January 2025, Quadient announced that a newly released report by market research and consulting firm IDC shows Quadient rapidly closing the gap on the top position. Quadient’s 13.7% year-on-year revenue growth in 2023 has accelerated from its 11% growth in 2022. This is also the fastest growth among the major Customer Communications Management (CCM) vendors globally, outperforming the overall market growth.

    Quadient Secures New c.$1.6 Million Contract to Enhance US Government Agency’s Mail Automation Capacity
    On 14 January 2025, Quadient announced that it has been selected by a US government agency to modernize its mail automation infrastructure in a contract valued at c.$1.6 million. This follows a previous announcement in October 2024, where Quadient was awarded a contract worth nearly $1 million for a similar modernization project with another federal agency.

    Leading Human Resources Technology Company Selects Quadient for Accessibility Compliance in Customer Communications
    On 16 January 2025, Quadient announced that a leading US provider of integrated benefits, payroll, and human resources cloud solutions has selected customer communications management (CCM) platform Quadient Inspire to ensure accessibility compliance for its US federal agency client.

    Quadient Partners with ScotRail to Introduce Parcel Lockers at Stations Across Scotland
    On 21 January 2025, Quadient announced a partnership with ScotRail to deploy Parcel Pending by Quadient automated lockers across Scotland’s rail network. ScotRail, Scotland’s national rail operator, is enhancing its passenger experience and operational efficiency with the installation of parcel lockers in its stations.

    Quadient strengthens its financial position through a USD100 million US Private Placement from MetLife
    On 22 January 2025, Quadient announced that it has signed a new USD100 million US Private Placement (USPP) with MetLife Investment Management (“MIM”), reinforcing its financial position. This new USPP of USD 100 million senior notes has a
    7-year average maturity and comes with an additional shelf facility allowing the issue of senior notes for a maximum aggregate principal amount of USD50 million.

    Quadient Teams Up with Buzz Bingo to Bring Convenient Parcel Lockers to Bingo Clubs Across the UK
    On 28 January 2025, Quadient announced a partnership with Buzz Bingo to deploy Parcel Pending by Quadient automated lockers in 35 of its 81 bingo clubs across the UK, with plans for further installations in the future. This collaboration enhances parcel collection, delivery, and return convenience while improving the customer experience at Buzz Bingo locations.

    Leading US Law Firm Chooses Quadient in a Deal Over $1M to Streamline Mailing, Shipping, and Accounting Processes
    On 30 January 2025, Quadient announced a new contract with one of the largest injury law firms in the US, transitioning the firm from its long-standing provider to Quadient. Under the new agreement, worth over 1 million dollars, the firm is rolling out nearly 100 Quadient iX-Series mailing systems at offices across the country, all seamlessly integrated with Quadient’s cloud-based S.M.A.R.T. accounting and shipping software.

    Quadient Reports Strong Year-End Locker Usage Growth in Multifamily and Higher Education Campuses in North America
    On 31 January 2025, Quadient announced strong year-end momentum in the adoption and usage of its Parcel Pending by Quadient locker network across multifamily and higher education campuses in North America.

    POST-CLOSING EVENTS

    Morrisons Partners with Quadient for Convenient Parcel Delivery at its Morrisons Daily Stores
    On 18 February 2025, Quadient announced a new partnership with Morrisons. The partnership will see Parcel Pending by Quadient parcel lockers installed at 230 Morrisons Daily stores by spring 2025.

    Quadient Enables New Shipping Service with Japan Post on its Open Locker Network, Driving Convenience and Increased Parcel Volume
    On 3 March 2025, Quadient announced an expanded partnership between Japan Post and Packcity Japan, a joint venture between Quadient and Yamato Transport. Thanks to the extended partnership, consumers will not only receive Japan Post deliveries at Packcity Japan’s nationwide open network of automated parcel lockers, but they will also now be able to ship parcels from the lockers, called PUDO stations. Consumers using Japan Post’s Yu-Pack parcel service use a mobile app to ship from a PUDO station, eliminating the need to wait at delivery counters or manually handling shipping slips.

    Quadient Maintains Leader Position on Aspire Leaderboard for Customer Communications and Interaction Experience Software
    On 13 March 2025, Quadient announced it has maintained its leadership position on the Aspire Leaderboard. Produced by independent advisory firm Aspire CCS, the Aspire Leaderboard highlights and compares vendors in the customer communications management (CCM) and customer experience management software space. It is updated in real-time as vendors release enhancements and adjust strategies.

    To know more about Quadient’s news flow, previous press releases are available on our website at the following address: https://invest.quadient.com/en/newsroom.

    CONFERENCE CALL & WEBCAST

    Quadient will host a conference call and webcast today at 6:00 pm Paris time (5:00 pm London time).

    To join the webcast, click on the following link: Webcast.

    To join the conference call, please use one of the following phone numbers:

    ▪ France: +33 (0) 1 70 37 71 66.
    ▪ United States: +1 786 697 3501.
    ▪ United Kingdom (standard international): +44 (0) 33 0551 0200.

    Password: Quadient

    A replay of the webcast will also be available on Quadient’s Investor Relations website for 12 months.


     

    Calendar

    • 3 June 2025: Q1 2025 sales release (after close of trading on the Euronext Paris regulated market)
    • 13 June 2025: Annual General Meeting

    About Quadient®

    Quadient is a global automation platform provider powering secure and sustainable business connections through digital and physical channels. Quadient supports businesses of all sizes in their digital transformation and growth journey, unlocking operational efficiency and creating meaningful customer experiences. Listed in compartment B of Euronext Paris (QDT) and part of the CAC® Mid & Small and EnterNext® Tech 40 indices, Quadient shares are eligible for PEA-PME investing.

    For more information about Quadient, visit https://invest.quadient.com/en/.

    Contacts

    APPENDIX

    Digital: New name for Intelligent Communication Automation

    Mail: New name for Mail-Related Solutions

    Lockers: New name for Parcel Locker Solutions

    FY 2024 and Q4 2024 consolidated sales

    FY 2024 consolidated sales by geography

    In € million 2024 2023 Change Organic
    change
    North America 632 607 +4.0% +2.8%
    Main European countries(a) 369 354 +4.5% (2.0)%
    International(b) 92 101 (9.7)% (5.4)%
    Group total 1,093 1,062 +2.8% +0.4%
    1. Including Austria, Benelux, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy (excluding Mail), Switzerland, and the United Kingdom
    2. International includes the activities of Digital, Mail and Lockers outside of North America and the Main European countries

    Q4 2024 consolidated sales by Solution

    In € million Q4 2024 Q4 2023 Change Organic change
    Digital 73 65 +11.5% +10.1%
    Mail 196 196 (0.3)% (4.6)%
    Lockers 27 22 +20.2% +8.0%
    Group total 295 284 +4.1% (0.2)%
     

    Q4 2024 consolidated sales by geography

    In € million Q4 2024 Q4 2023 Change Organic
    change
    North America 171 160 +7.0% +2.5%
    Main European countries(a) 100 97 +3.3% (2.9)%
    International(b) 24 27 (10.7)% (6.9)%
    Group total 295 284 +4.1% (0.2)%
    1. Including Austria, Benelux, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy (excluding Mail), Switzerland, and the United Kingdom
    2. International includes the activities of Digital, Mail and Lockers outside of North America and the Main European countries

    Financial statements – Full-year 2024

    Consolidated income statement

    In € million FY 2024
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2025)    		 FY 2023
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2024)
    Sales 1,093 1,062
    Cost of sales (275) (274)
    Gross margin 818 788
    R&D expenses (63) (63)
    Sales and marketing expenses (287) (275)
    Administrative and general expenses (187) (176)
    Service and support expenses (116) (109)
    Employee profit-sharing, share-based payments and other expenses (10) (7)
    M&A and strategic projects expenses (8) (11)
    Current operating income 146 147
    Optimization expenses and other operating income & expenses (23) (15)
    Operating income 123 132
    Financial income/(expense) (39) (31)
    Income before taxes 84 101
    Income taxes (17) (17)
    Share of results of associated companies 1 (0)
    Net income from continued operations 68 84
    Net income of discontinued operations (0) (14)
    Net income 67 70
    Of which:

    • Minority interests
    		 1 1
    • Net attributable income
    		 66 69

    Simplified consolidated balance sheet

    Assets
    In € million    		 FY 2024
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2025)    		 FY 2023
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2024)
    Goodwill 1,131 1,082
    Intangible fixed assets 119 121
    Tangible fixed assets 170 156
    Other non-current financial assets 65 65
    Other non-current receivables 2 2
    Leasing receivables 623 598
    Deferred tax assets 38 17
    Inventories 75 67
    Receivables 240 228
    Other current assets 79 84
    Cash and cash equivalents 367 118
    Current financial instruments 1 2
    Assets held for sale 0 9
    TOTAL ASSETS 2,910 2,550
    Liabilities
    In € million    		 FY 2024
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2025)    		 FY 2023
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2024)
    Shareholders’ equity 1,113 1,069
    Non-current provisions 12 12
    Non-current financial debt 722 715
    Current financial debt 347 66
    Lease obligations 38 46
    Other non-current liabilities 3 2
    Deferred tax liabilities 101 104
    Financial instruments 5 5
    Trade payables 104 79
    Deferred income 223 212
    Other current liabilities 242 225
    Liabilities held for sale 0 15
    TOTAL LIABILITIES 2,910 2,550

    Simplified cash flow statement

     

    In €millions

    		 FY 2024
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2025)    		 FY 2023
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2024)
    EBITDA 247 244
    Other elements (15) (19)
    Cash flow before net cost of debt and income tax 233 225
    Change in the working capital requirement 9 (6)
    Net change in leasing receivables (7) (0)
    Cash flow from operating activities 235 219
    Interest and tax paid (67) (55)
    Net cash flow from operating activities 168 165
    Capital expenditure (108) (101)
    Disposal of assets 6 0
    Net cash flow after investing activities 66 64
    Impact of changes in scope (37) (5)
    Net cash flow after acquisitions and divestments 29 59
    Dividends paid (22) (21)
    Change in debt and others 219 (39)
    Net cash flow after financing activities 226 (1)
    Cumulative translation adjustments on cash (6) (2)
    Net cash from discontinued operations (1) (9)
    Change in net cash position 219 (11)

    ([1]) EBITDA = current operating income + provisions for depreciation of tangible and intangible fixed assets.
    ([2]) For the FY 2024, the average compounded number of shares is 34,114,060. Diluted number of shares is 34,486,288.
    ([3]) Including IFRS 16
    ([4]) Net debt / shareholder’s equity
    ([5]) Subject to the renewal of the share buyback authorizations at the 2025 AGM
    ([6]) FY 2026 leverage ratio excluding leasing target of 1.5x

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Pact for the Future: Countries urged to translate pledges into action

    Source: United Nations 2

    UN Affairs

    UN Member States met on Wednesday for the first of three key meetings to advance a global agreement that pledges concrete actions to achieve a safer, more peaceful, sustainable and inclusive world for generations to come. 

    General Assembly President Philémon Yang convened the informal interactive dialogue on the implementation of the Pact for the Future, which covers five areas: sustainable development, international peace and security, science and technology, youth, and transforming global governance.

    It was adopted at a UN summit in September 2024 together with two annexes – a  Global Digital Compact and a Declaration for Future Generations – marking a significant step towards a renewed multilateral system.

    For a look back at our full live coverage on the day, go here.

    ‘A shared commitment’

    “The Pact for the Future is a shared commitment to a more just, sustainable and secure world. But a promise is only meaningful when it has been translated into action,” Mr. Yang told delegates gathered in the Trusteeship Council at UN Headquarters in New York.

    He recognized the complexity and unique challenges that each country will face in implementation, including least developed countries, landlocked developing countries, and small island developing states. 

    Mr. Yang emphasized that implementation must reflect what works best for each nation, which requires tailored approaches that consider resource restraints and capacity gaps. 

    “To succeed, we must build an enabling environment through smart investments and right reforms,” he said, calling for closing the resource gap, flexible trade policies, and stronger international cooperation in technical assistance, capacity-building and knowledge-sharing.

    Divisions and mistrust 

    UN Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted action that has occurred since the Pact’s adoption but also the work that still lies ahead amid “a long list of challenges” that include intensifying conflicts and climate disasters.

    “Geopolitical divisions and mistrust are blocking effective action, with some actively questioning the value of international cooperation and the multilateral system itself,” he said. 

    “Meanwhile, critical funding is being drastically cut for people in desperate need – with more reductions to come,” he warned.

    Progress on peace efforts

    Mr. Guterres updated on progress in four key areas, starting with peace and security. He said the Pact represents a commitment to strengthen tools to prevent and address conflict and ensure that UN peace efforts respond to new and emerging threats.

    In this regard, he noted progress on a review of all Peace Operations, as requested in the agreement.

    “The review will be an opportunity to help adapt peace operations to today’s realities, and ensure they’re guided by clear and sequenced mandates that are realistic and achievable – with viable exit strategies and transition plans,” he said. 

    “It will also recognize the limitations of our operations where there is little or no peace to keep,” he added. 

    Fairer financial system

    Turning next to finance for development, Mr. Guterres said the UN has been working closely with the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to follow-up on action points in the Pact regarding improvements to the international financial system.

    “Developing countries must be represented fairly in the governance of the very institutions they depend on,” he said.  

    The Secretary-General also has established an expert group to identify practical steps for action on debt.

    “At the same time, we will continue advocating to increase the lending capacity of Multilateral Development Banks, making them bigger and bolder,” he said.

    “This includes both stretching their balance sheets and recapitalization. And we must ensure that concessional finance is deployed where it is most needed.”

    Meanwhile, the UN will also continue pushing forward on other priorities outlined in the Pact, including disarmament commitments around nuclear, biological and chemical weapons, lethal autonomous weapons and the growing weaponization of outer space.

    Focus on youth

    Mr. Guterres was adamant the international community must deliver for young people and generations to come. 

    He said progress is being made towards establishing a Youth Investment Platform to ensure that national funding mechanisms and investment platforms are focused on the needs of young people.

    The UN is also developing core principles to strengthen youth engagement across its work, while the Declaration on Future Generations looks to those yet to be born.

    The Secretary-General said that later this year he will appoint a Special Envoy for Future Generations to scale up these efforts.

    Closing digital divides

    His final point concerned technology, and Mr. Guterres reported that the UN is implementing the Global Digital Compact’s calls to close all digital divides and ensure everyone, everywhere, benefits from a safe and secure digital space.

    Particular focus is on Artificial Intelligence (AI), he said, and a report is being developed on voluntary financing options to help countries in the Global South to harness AI for the greater good.

    Furthermore, the zero draft of a resolution to establish the International Independent Scientific Panel on AI and convene a Global Dialogue on AI Governance was circulated last week.

    The UN chief urged the General Assembly to act swiftly to establish the Panel, ensure AI expertise and knowledge are available to all countries, and support the Global Dialogue. 

    UN taking action

    Mr. Guterres added that as the UN pushes for these priorities, the global body is also improving the efficiency and effectiveness of its operations, in line with the Pact.

    “We’re already seeing results: from speeding-up disaster assessments in the Asia-Pacific, to strengthening social security programmes in Malawi, to consolidating Information Technology functions across the UN System,” he said.

    The Secretary-General stressed that this work must continue “especially in light of the funding challenges we face,” underlining the need for support. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitcoinese Launches Blockchain Research Lab to Accelerate Innovation and Global Collaboration

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Hamburg, Germany, March 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitcoinese has officially launched its new Blockchain Research Lab, a dedicated initiative focused on advancing blockchain infrastructure, smart contract security, cross-chain technology, and applied AI systems. This move positions Bitcoinese at the forefront of blockchain research, aiming to foster innovation through global academic and industry partnerships.

    Establishing a Research-Driven Future for Blockchain Development

    The newly formed Bitcoinese Blockchain Research Lab will serve as a central hub for exploring next-generation blockchain solutions, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration. By uniting researchers, developers, and technologists, the lab will produce whitepapers, prototypes, and open-source frameworks designed to solve complex challenges in digital infrastructure.

    Key areas of focus include:

    Scalable Blockchain Architecture: Researching high-throughput, low-latency consensus mechanisms and energy-efficient systems.

    Smart Contract Security: Developing automated audit tools and formal verification methods for decentralized applications.

    Cross-Chain Protocols: Designing interoperability frameworks for seamless asset transfers between blockchains.

    AI Integration: Investigating the convergence of artificial intelligence and decentralized ledgers for predictive analytics and autonomous finance.

    The lab will operate with a global, open-access model, allowing select external contributors to participate in research programs and collaborate on technical publications.

    Partnerships with Universities and Industry Experts

    To ensure real-world impact, Bitcoinese is forming strategic partnerships with universities, technology institutes, and blockchain research foundations across Europe, Asia, and North America. These collaborations will involve joint publications, co-hosted conferences, and talent development programs aimed at fostering the next generation of blockchain engineers and scientists.

    Bitcoinese will also offer research grants and fellowships to emerging scholars and developers working on critical blockchain advancements. The lab will regularly publish peer-reviewed studies and technical documentation for the public and industry stakeholders.

    Accelerating Open-Source Innovation

    A core goal of the Blockchain Research Lab is to support the open-source blockchain ecosystem. All major findings and tools developed by the lab will be published under open-source licenses, enabling adoption and contribution from global communities.

    Initial projects under development include:

    A modular testing environment for smart contract stress testing.

    A decentralized benchmarking tool for cross-chain bridges.

    An open AI oracle system for autonomous smart contract execution.

    These initiatives are expected to provide essential infrastructure for developers working on DeFi, enterprise blockchain, supply chain, and digital identity solutions.

    Bitcoinese’s Commitment to Long-Term Technological Advancement

    By launching the Blockchain Research Lab, Bitcoinese reinforces its commitment to long-term technological innovation and global cooperation. The company views research as a foundational pillar of its ecosystem and believes that investment in knowledge, transparency, and experimentation is critical to driving the next wave of blockchain adoption.

    Bitcoinese plans to host its first Blockchain Research Forum in the coming year, inviting scholars, developers, and policymakers to engage in discussions around security, regulation, scalability, and ethics in decentralized technology.

    This research-led initiative underscores Bitcoinese’s vision of building a blockchain future grounded in evidence-based development and collaborative progress.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Electric Tri-Converter Demo Results a Breakthrough for Aether Aurora™ SAF Solution

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, March 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aether Fuels (Aether), a sustainable fuels technology company, today reported exciting demonstration results for the electric Tri-Converter technology embedded in its proprietary Aether Aurora™ solution which aims to transform the economics of sustainable fuels and accelerate large-scale deployment. This electric Tri-Converter demonstration has a capacity that is more than 50 times larger than the previously demonstrated pilot plant. The results represent a breakthrough for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production.

    The electric Tri-Converter converts waste carbon feedstocks into the syngas that supplies the downstream Fischer-Tropsch (FT) unit in the Aether Aurora process. The purpose of the demo was to prove that the electric Tri-Converter can continuously produce syngas at an increasingly larger scale using a mix of real-world feedstocks, including biogenic CO2, renewable natural gas (RNG), and clean hydrogen. The program is part of Aether’s program to build and operate a fully integrated demonstration plant (the “Demo Plant”) producing more than one barrel per day of sustainable fuels. Aether plans to complete the construction of the Demo Plant later this year.

    The demonstrator is a joint project between Aether and GTI Energy. Aether Aurora integrates technology elements first developed by GTI Energy in a gas-to-liquids program, which is supported by grants from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Aether has licensed the relevant technologies from GTI Energy and leverages the laboratory and demonstration spaces at its Chicago-area campus. Aether has subsequently taken over responsibility for future Aether Aurora development and commercialization, including expanding its R&D team.

    The results of the demonstrator validate that the electric Tri-Converter is ready for integration into the Demo Plant. More critically, they demonstrate the solution’s capability to use a wide range of abundant feedstocks to create sustainable fuels—a breakthrough that can potentially shatter a key barrier to scaling production.

    This milestone was celebrated yesterday at the Aether and GTI Energy demonstrator site where Aether investors and feedstock executives joined federal, state and local officials to view the technology, meet the team, tour Aether’s R&D center and GTI Energy lab spaces, and learn how the innovations will accelerate the transition to sustainable fuels. State Senator Laura Murphy (IL-28th) was on hand to deliver opening remarks.

    The Syngas Generation Engine for Next-Gen Sustainable Fuels

    Aether Aurora optimizes the well-established FT process to create drop-in liquid hydrocarbons leveraging its novel electric Tri-Converter and Upgrading technologies. As the solution’s “syngas generation engine”, the electric Tri-Converter improves and streamlines the process where feedstocks and the internally recycled downstream byproducts are converted into syngas. This is achieved via novel catalysts and a reactor that uses electricity instead of combustion to generate the reaction heat. Where typical syngas production requires multiple reactors to convert the same mix of inputs, Aether Aurora employs just one. The streamlined equipment configuration reduces CAPEX while the electrification innovations generate higher energy efficiency and yields than a conventional combustion reactor.

    Aether’s demonstrator is supported by suppliers that include bp for RNG, Invenergy for clean hydrogen production, and Certarus Ltd for low carbon energy supply and logistics.

    State Senator Murphy remarked: “The road to the future is paved in sustainable practices, and GTI Energy and Aether Fuels are at the forefront of this future. They are leading the way in developing energy solutions that will transform how we power industries, transportation and everyday life. Their innovation not only drives us forward, it drives economic growth that supports every hardworking Illinoisan.”

    Aether CEO, Conor Madigan, said: “This is an exciting milestone for Aether and a tribute to our R&D experts and our partners at GTI Energy. The aviation and ocean shipping industries need affordable sustainable fuels at scale and the electric Tri-Converter technology is a transformative step forward. It drives critical process simplification and enables cost-efficient feedstock flexibility. When integrated into our Aether Aurora solution we’re making SAF production more scalable and cost effective.”

    GTI Energy’s VP of Carbon Management and Conversion, Don Stevenson, said: “GTI Energy has a long history of pioneering advanced energy solutions, and we’re proud to see technologies incubated in our labs being integrated into solutions for scaling low-emission fuels. Through collaboration with DOE and companies like Aether Fuels, GTI Energy helps unlock the potential of waste carbon streams while creating economically viable fuels solutions for industries.”

    Elie Fayad, Aether’s Senior Director of R&D, noted: “Today’s milestone represents nearly a decade of dedicated innovation and significant R&D investment by GTI Energy and Aether Fuels. The electric Tri-Converter is one of the breakthroughs in our Aether Aurora solution that drastically improves SAF economics and brings large-scale deployment within reach.”

    Aether Aurora is trademarked by Aether Fuels.

    About Aether Fuels

    Aether Fuels is a climate technology company revolutionizing sustainable fuel production to help hard-to-abate industries like aviation and ocean shipping achieve their decarbonization goals. Our breakthrough Aether Aurora™ technology converts waste carbon into drop-in liquid fuels with near-ideal carbon conversion efficiency. The scalable solution addresses the core requirements of next-generation sustainable fuels by increasing production yields and reducing capital costs, while utilizing a diverse range of feedstocks. Founded in 2022 and backed by global investors and partners, we maintain principal offices in the U.S. and Singapore. To learn more, visit www.aetherfuels.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

    About GTI Energy

    GTI Energy is a technology development and training organization. Our trusted team works to scale impactful solutions for energy systems by leveraging gases, liquids, infrastructure, and efficiency. We embrace systems thinking, innovation, and collaboration to develop, scale, and deploy the technologies needed for low-emission, low-cost, and resilient energy systems.

    Contacts

    Aether Fuels Communications  
    Kelsey Duke; Diffusion PR for Aether Fuels;  
    E-mail: AetherFuels@Diffusionpr.com  

    GTI Energy
    Kristin Cone
    E-mail: kcone@gti.energy

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General Urges Developed Countries to Double Annual Climate Adaptation Finance to $40 Billion

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Following are UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ remarks to the virtual high-level segment of the Sixteenth Petersberg Climate Dialogue, held in New York today:

    Thank you for this opportunity — and for your focus today on collective climate action and acceleration of implementation.  This could not be more timely.  There is much uncertainty and instability in our world. But, today, we meet in the wake of some good news.

    Just this morning, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) officially confirmed that 2024 was a record year for renewables additions to global power capacity.  Renewables represented more than 92 per cent of all new electricity-generation capacity installed last year.

    The amount of renewables added represents more than the total electricity capacity of Brazil and Japan combined.  Europe’s capacity grew by 9 per cent — with Germany contributing more than one quarter of that growth.  Africa’s capacity grew by almost 7 per cent.

    All of this is another reminder of a twenty-first century truth:  Renewables are renewing economies.  They are powering growth, creating jobs, lowering energy bills and cleaning our air. And every day, they become an even smarter investment.

    Since 2010, the average cost of wind power has plunged 60 per cent.  Solar is 90 per cent cheaper.  In 2023, clean energy sectors accounted for 5 per cent of economic growth in India and 6 [per cent] in the United States.  It accounted for a fifth of China’s GDP [gross domestic product] growth, and a third of the European Union’s.

    The economic case for — and opportunities of — climate action have become ever clearer — particularly for those who choose to lead. And leadership is what we need — as today’s IRENA report shows:

    To accelerate the shift to renewables and to correct the imbalances in the transition, which is still starving developing countries — outside China — of the investment needed to fully embrace clean energy.

    As the title of this session puts it so well:  we are indeed at a turning point to the future. In the 10 years since Paris, we have seen other important progress.  Ninety per cent of global emissions are now covered by net-zero targets.

    A decade ago, the planet was on course for a global temperature rise of over 4°C.  Today, countries’ national climate plans — or NDCs [nationally determined contributions] — if fully delivered — will take us closer to a 2.6°C rise.

    At the same time, climate challenges are piling up.  It seems records are shattered at every turn — the hottest day of the hottest month of the hottest year of the hottest decade ever.

    All of this is hitting the vulnerable hardest, and everyday people in their pockets — with higher living costs, higher insurance premiums and higher food prices.  Just last week, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) confirmed that 2024 was another alarming year.

    Almost every climate indicator reached new and increasingly dangerous heights — inflaming displacement and food insecurity and inflicting huge economic losses.  And for the first time, the annual global temperature was 1.5°C hotter than pre-industrial times.

    Scientists are clear:  it is still possible to meet the long-term 1.5°C limit.  But, it requires urgent action.  And it requires leadership. I see two critical fronts to drive action.

    First, new national climate plans — or NDCs — due by September.  Investors need certainty and predictability.  These new plans are a unique opportunity to deliver and lay out a coherent vision for a just green transition.  They must align with the 1.5°C limit, as agreed at COP28 [twenty-eighth Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change].  And cover all emissions and the whole economy.

    Together, they must reduce global emissions 60 per cent by 2035 compared to 2019 and contribute to the COP28 global energy transition goals.

    All this must be achieved in line with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, in the light of national circumstances but everybody, everybody must do more.  The Group of 20 (G20) — the largest emitters and economies — must lead.

    Every country must step up and play their part.  The United Nations is with you all.  President Lula and I are working to secure the highest ambition from the largest economies.

    The United Nations Climate Promise is supporting 100 countries to prepare their new climate plans.  And we will convene a special event in September to take stock of the plans of all countries, push for action to keep 1.5°C within reach, and deliver climate justice.

    Second, we must drive finance to developing countries.  The COP29 finance agreement must be implemented in full.  I count on the leadership of the COP29 and COP30 presidencies to deliver a credible road map to mobilize $1.3 trillion a year by 2035.

    We need new and innovative sources of financing, and credible carbon pricing.  Developed countries must honour their promise to double adaptation finance to at least $40 billion a year, by this year.

    And we need serious contributions to the fund for responding to loss and damage, and to get it up and running.

    We can only meet these goals with stronger collaboration between Governments, and across society and sectors.  Those that will lag behind need to be not a reason for us to be discouraged, but an increase in our commitment to move forward.

    The rewards are there for the taking, for all those ready and willing to lead the world through these troubled times.  We are at a turning point.  I urge you to seize this moment; and seize the prize.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Muncie Drug Trafficking Ring Dismantled, Six Sentenced to a Combined 87 Years in Federal Prison

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    INDIANAPOLIS— Five defendants have been sentenced to a total of 70 years in federal prison for their roles in a large methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl trafficking conspiracy. The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young. The defendants plead guilty and were sentenced as follows:

    Defendant Charge(s) Sentence
    Jamarr Hill, 30, Muncie Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, money laundering,  and conspiracy to make a false statement in connection with purchasing a firearm 17 years’ imprisonment, 5 years supervised release.
    Terry Hill, 49, Muncie Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine 5 years’ imprisonment, time served, 5 years’ supervised release.
    Lance McGee, 32, Muncie Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances 15 years’ imprisonment, 5 years supervised release.
    Nakevius Shannon, 33, Muncie Making a false statement in connection with purchasing a firearm 3 years’ probation

    According to court documents, between May and November of 2022, Jamarr Hill, Lance McGee, Terry Hill, and others conspired together to distribute controlled substances including cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl.

    Jamarr Hill acted as the ringleader for the conspiracy, obtaining large quantities of drugs from Rodolfo Silva in San Diego, California for redistribution in Muncie. Terry Hill and Lance McGee served as distributors, dealing the drugs into communities in Muncie and elsewhere in central Indiana.

    On November 12, 2022, Nakevius Shannon purchased two firearms from Rural King, a federally licensed firearms dealer, completing an ATF Form 4473 in connection with the purchase. At the time Shannon completed the Form 4473, he falsely stated on the form that he was the intended transferee/buyer of handguns, when in fact, he purchased the firearms for Jamar Hill in order to further Hill’s drug trafficking conspiracy.

    In total, the defendants obtained and distributed no less than 2,004 grams of fentanyl, 10 kilograms of cocaine, and 203 pounds of methamphetamine.

    As part of the investigation, two other defendants were charged and have been sentenced. Joseph Haskins, of Muncie, Indiana, was charged in August 2021 with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. After a two-day trial in December 2023, Haskins was sentenced as a career offender to 33 years’ imprisonment and 5 years of supervised release. Rodolfo Silva was charged in 2024 in the Southern District of California with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Silva plead guilty and was sentenced to 17 years’ and 6 months’ imprisonment.

    “Drug traffickers like these defendants, responsible for pushing poison from across the country into our neighborhoods, must be held accountable for the suffering they cause in search of quick profits,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. This case is an outstanding example of the impact we can have with the help of our state and local law enforcement partners. I commend the efforts of the FBI, and the Muncie and Anderson Police Departments to make our communities safer by getting drugs and drug dealers off our streets.”

    “This is a significant victory in the ongoing efforts to target and dismantle drug trafficking organizations that send a flow of illegal drugs into our communities and threaten public safety,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to ensure every available resource is used to disrupt these criminal enterprises and hold those responsible accountable.”

    The FBI, IRS, Muncie Police Department, Anderson Police Department, and Fishers Police Department investigated this case. 

    Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lindsay Karwoski and Barry Glickman, who prosecuted this case.

    This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN attends dinner hosted by Ambassador of China to ASEAN

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, attended a dinner hosted by Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to ASEAN, H.E. Hou Yanqi, this evening. Both sides took the opportunity to exchange views on ASEAN-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, including deliverables of ASEAN-China cooperation this year in support of ASEAN’s priorities in 2025 and beyond.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s remarks to the Informal Interactive Dialogue on the Implementation of the Pact for the Future [bilingual, as delivered; scroll down for all-English version]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Mr. President of the General Assembly, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

    I thank the President of the General Assembly for convening this important dialogue — the first of three in the coming months. 

    From day one of the Pact for the Future’s adoption, the President has been its active champion.

    I deeply appreciate your efforts, Mr. President, and your leadership.

    Excellencies,

    Adopting the Pact was the beginning of the process, not the end. 

    Today I want to focus on what we have done over the last six months — and what we need to do.

    We face a long list of challenges.  

    Conflicts and climate disasters are intensifying.  

    The Sustainable Development Goals are far off-track — as is the funding required to achieve them.

    Geopolitical divisions and mistrust are blocking effective action, with some actively questioning the value of international cooperation and the multilateral system itself.

    But let me be very clear.  It is exactly because of these divides and these mistrusts that the Pact for the Future and the two parallel documents are more important than ever.  And the bigger the obstacle, the bigger will be my determination to make things move forward in line with the will expressed by Member States in the Summit of the Future.

    Meanwhile, critical funding is being drastically cut for people in desperate need — with more reductions to come.

    Resources are shrinking across the board — and they have been for a long time. 

    From day one of my mandate, we embarked on an ambitious agenda to become more effective and cost-effective across our organization.

    Earlier this month, I announced the “UN80” initiative to continue this work and intensify it.

    We’re reviewing efficiencies and improvements to current arrangements, the implementation of mandates handed down by Member States, and structural changes and programme realignment.

    All these will contribute for a more effective implementation of the Pact for the Future.

    Excellencies,

    We’ve wasted no time moving into the implementation phase of the Pact.

    From an operational perspective, we established a principal-level steering committee — which I chair — overseeing six working groups focused on action and reforms in key areas:

    Sustainable Development Goals acceleration…peace and security… international financial architecture…digital technologies…UN governance…and youth.

    We’ve created two task teams focusing on future generations and the need to look beyond GDP as a measure of progress and guide to policy-making. 

    And we’re establishing an internal tracking system to monitor our progress on Pact implementation.

    Today, I’d like to report on our efforts since the Pact was adopted, and outline the work ahead in four areas.

    First — peace and security.

    United Nations peace operations help safeguard people and communities in some of the most desperate corners of the world. 

    The Pact represents a commitment to strengthen tools to prevent and address conflict, to ensure that our peace efforts respond to new and emerging threats.

    In November, I issued a report on peacebuilding which included concrete suggestions to strengthen the Peacebuilding Commission and Fund. 

    We’re actively working on the second independent progress study on the positive contribution of young people to peace processes.  

    And we’re progressing on a review of all forms of Peace Operations — as requested in the Pact. 

    Our recent proposals to the Security Council regarding Haiti are a case in point where new approaches can be developed to complex security challenges.

    The review will be an opportunity to help adapt peace operations to today’s realities, and ensure they’re guided by clear and sequenced mandates that are realistic and achievable — with viable exit strategies and transition plans.

    It will also recognize the limitations of our operations where there is little or no peace to keep.

    We will also continue pushing forward on other peace-related priorities of the Pact — including disarmament commitments around nuclear, biological and chemical weapons, lethal autonomous weapons and the growing weaponization of outer space.

    And we will continue advocating — including through the intergovernmental negotiations process — for the Pact’s call to make the Security Council more representative of today’s world and more effective in the capacity to promote peace in the world.

    Second — finance for development.

    Since the Pact’s adoption, we’ve taken action on several fronts.

    For example, our Resident Coordinators and Country Teams are now mapping out how we can accelerate progress at the national levels in close cooperation with the Governments.

    We’ve begun analyzing the impact of military expenditure on the achievement of the SDGs and on our own work at the UN — with a final report out by September.

    The Expert Group called for in the Pact to develop measures of progress that go beyond Gross Domestic Product will soon be announced, and will work throughout the year before an inter-governmental process takes over in 2026.

    And we’ve been working closely with the World Bank and the IMF to follow-up on the Pact’s action points addressing improvements to the international financial system.

    Developing countries must be represented fairly in the governance of the very institutions they depend on.

    We know the environment is not favourable.

    But we must not give up.

    Since the Pact’s adoption, I have also established an expert group to identify practical steps for action on debt.

    In the coming weeks, they will propose a list of achievable outcomes — and release a full report in June in advance of the Financing for Development Conference in Spain.

    Debt relief is a central issue if we want the implementation and the Pact for the Future a reality.

    At the same time, we will continue advocating to increase the lending capacity of Multilateral Development Banks, to make them bigger and bolder.

    This includes both stretching their balance sheets and recapitalization.

    And we must ensure that concessional finance is deployed where it is most needed.

    Many of these actions depend on decisions of other multilateral institutions and of Member States, but we will not relent in our constant advocacy for what the Pact for the Future has clearly indicated as the way to pursue.

    Three — youth and future generations 

    Our efforts must deliver for young people and the generations to come. 

    The Pact’s central promise to young people is to listen to their concerns and ideas, and including them at the decision-making table.

    Following the establishment of a UN Youth Office in 2022, young people played a key role in shaping the Pact’s priorities.

    With the Pact’s adoption, we’re now progressing towards establishing a Youth Investment Platform to ensure that national funding mechanisms and investment platforms are focused on the needs of young people.

    And we’re developing core principles to strengthen youth engagement across our work at the United Nations — including by broadening the representation of younger colleagues within our organizational structures.

    Through the Declaration on Future Generations, we’re also looking to the generations yet to be born.

    We’ve established a Strategic Foresight Network and Community of Practice, to ensure our policies, programmes and field operations are based on long-term thinking.

    And later this year, I will appoint a Special Envoy for Future Generations to scale up these efforts.

    Quatrièmement : la technologie.

    Nous mettons en œuvre les appels du Pacte mondial pour le numérique pour combler toutes les fractures numériques et veiller à ce que tout le monde puisse bénéficier d’un espace numérique sûr et sécurisé.

    L’intelligence artificielle fait l’objet d’une attention particulière.

    Nous élaborons un rapport sur les options novatrices de financement volontaire qui permettraient de renforcer les capacités en matière d’intelligence artificielle afin d’aider les pays du Sud à exploiter cette technologie au service de l’intérêt général – en tenant compte des recommandations formulées par mon Organe consultatif de haut niveau. 

    Un avant-projet de résolution visant à établir le Groupe scientifique international indépendant sur l’IA et à organiser un Dialogue mondial sur la gouvernance de l’IA a été distribué la semaine dernière – grâce au travail des co-facilitateurs, l’Espagne et le Costa Rica.

    J’invite l’Assemblée générale à agir rapidement pour mettre sur pied ce Groupe et veiller à ce que le savoir-faire et les connaissances en matière d’IA soient mis à la disposition de tous les pays – tout en soutenant le Dialogue mondial.

    L’ensemble du système de l’ONU se tient prêt à soutenir ces travaux.

    Excellences,

    Tout en défendant ces priorités, nous nous attelons par ailleurs à améliorer l’efficience et l’efficacité de nos opérations – comme l’exige le Pacte.

    L’automne dernier, nous avons entrepris une évaluation complète dans l’ensemble des entités de l’ONU afin d’exploiter le potentiel de l’innovation, de l’analyse des données, de la transformation numérique et de la prospective dans l’ensemble de nos travaux – conformément à l’initiative ONU 2.0.

    Les résultats sont déjà au rendez-vous : nous avons par exemple été capable de constater une accélération de l’évaluation des catastrophes dans la région Asie-Pacifique, un renforcement des programmes de sécurité sociale au Malawi, ou encore une consolidation des fonctions relatives à l’informatique dans l’ensemble du système des Nations Unies.

    Ces efforts, où les données sont une question essentielle pour que nous puissions faire une bien meilleure gestion de ces données – ces efforts doivent se poursuivre, en particulier au regard des problèmes de financement auxquels nous devons faire face.

    Nous comptons sur votre soutien pour mener ce travail à bien.

    Excellences,

    Alors que nous œuvrons pour remodeler le système multilatéral et ainsi relever les défis du monde d’aujourd’hui, le Pacte pour l’avenir est un rouage essentiel de ce processus de renouvellement constant.

    Nous ne pouvons pas diluer nos efforts.

    Gardons intact l’esprit et la détermination qui ont permis de forger et d’adopter le Pacte.

    Nous comptons sur vous pour éclairer, inspirer et guider le travail de mise en œuvre à venir.

    Une fois encore, merci pour vos idées et votre engagement.

    ***
    [All-English]

    Mr. President of the General Assembly, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

    I thank the President of the General Assembly for convening this important dialogue — the first of three in the coming months. 

    From day one of the Pact for the Future’s adoption, the President has been its active champion.

    I deeply appreciate your efforts, Mr. President, and your leadership.

    Excellencies,

    Adopting the Pact was the beginning of the process, not the end. 

    Today I want to focus on what we have done over the last six months — and what we need to do.

    We face a long list of challenges.  

    Conflicts and climate disasters are intensifying.  

    The Sustainable Development Goals are far off-track — as is the funding required to achieve them.

    Geopolitical divisions and mistrust are blocking effective action, with some actively questioning the value of international cooperation and the multilateral system itself.

    But let me be very clear.  It is exactly because of these divides and these mistrusts that the Pact for the Future and the two parallel documents are more important than ever.  And the bigger the obstacle, the bigger will be my determination to make things move forward in line with the will expressed by Member States in the Summit of the Future.

    Meanwhile, critical funding is being drastically cut for people in desperate need — with more reductions to come.

    Resources are shrinking across the board — and they have been for a long time. 

    From day one of my mandate, we embarked on an ambitious agenda to become more effective and cost-effective across our organization.

    Earlier this month, I announced the “UN80” initiative to continue this work and intensify it.

    We’re reviewing efficiencies and improvements to current arrangements, the implementation of mandates handed down by Member States, and structural changes and programme realignment.

    All these will contribute for a more effective implementation of the Pact for the Future.

    Excellencies,

    We’ve wasted no time moving into the implementation phase of the Pact.

    From an operational perspective, we established a principal-level steering committee — which I chair — overseeing six working groups focused on action and reforms in key areas:

    Sustainable Development Goals acceleration…peace and security… international financial architecture…digital technologies…UN governance…and youth.

    We’ve created two task teams focusing on future generations and the need to look beyond GDP as a measure of progress and guide to policy-making. 

    And we’re establishing an internal tracking system to monitor our progress on Pact implementation.

    Today, I’d like to report on our efforts since the Pact was adopted, and outline the work ahead in four areas.

    First — peace and security.

    United Nations peace operations help safeguard people and communities in some of the most desperate corners of the world. 

    The Pact represents a commitment to strengthen tools to prevent and address conflict, to ensure that our peace efforts respond to new and emerging threats.

    In November, I issued a report on peacebuilding which included concrete suggestions to strengthen the Peacebuilding Commission and Fund. 

    We’re actively working on the second independent progress study on the positive contribution of young people to peace processes.  

    And we’re progressing on a review of all forms of Peace Operations — as requested in the Pact. 

    Our recent proposals to the Security Council regarding Haiti are a case in point where new approaches can be developed to complex security challenges.

    The review will be an opportunity to help adapt peace operations to today’s realities, and ensure they’re guided by clear and sequenced mandates that are realistic and achievable — with viable exit strategies and transition plans.

    It will also recognize the limitations of our operations where there is little or no peace to keep.

    We will also continue pushing forward on other peace-related priorities of the Pact — including disarmament commitments around nuclear, biological and chemical weapons, lethal autonomous weapons and the growing weaponization of outer space.

    And we will continue advocating — including through the intergovernmental negotiations process — for the Pact’s call to make the Security Council more representative of today’s world and more effective in the capacity to promote peace in the world.

    Second — finance for development.

    Since the Pact’s adoption, we’ve taken action on several fronts.

    For example, our Resident Coordinators and Country Teams are now mapping out how we can accelerate progress at the national levels in close cooperation with the Governments.

    We’ve begun analyzing the impact of military expenditure on the achievement of the SDGs and on our own work at the UN — with a final report out by September.

    The Expert Group called for in the Pact to develop measures of progress that go beyond Gross Domestic Product will soon be announced, and will work throughout the year before an inter-governmental process takes over in 2026.

    And we’ve been working closely with the World Bank and the IMF to follow-up on the Pact’s action points addressing improvements to the international financial system.

    Developing countries must be represented fairly in the governance of the very institutions they depend on.

    We know the environment is not favourable.

    But we must not give up.

    Since the Pact’s adoption, I have also established an expert group to identify practical steps for action on debt.

    In the coming weeks, they will propose a list of achievable outcomes — and release a full report in June in advance of the Financing for Development Conference in Spain.

    Debt relief is a central issue if we want the implementation and the Pact for the Future a reality.

    At the same time, we will continue advocating to increase the lending capacity of Multilateral Development Banks, to make them bigger and bolder.

    This includes both stretching their balance sheets and recapitalization.

    And we must ensure that concessional finance is deployed where it is most needed.

    Many of these actions depend on decisions of other multilateral institutions and of Member States, but we will not relent in our constant advocacy for what the Pact for the Future has clearly indicated as the way to pursue.

    Three — youth and future generations 

    Our efforts must deliver for young people and the generations to come. 

    The Pact’s central promise to young people is to listen to their concerns and ideas, and including them at the decision-making table.

    Following the establishment of a UN Youth Office in 2022, young people played a key role in shaping the Pact’s priorities.

    With the Pact’s adoption, we’re now progressing towards establishing a Youth Investment Platform to ensure that national funding mechanisms and investment platforms are focused on the needs of young people.

    And we’re developing core principles to strengthen youth engagement across our work at the United Nations — including by broadening the representation of younger colleagues within our organizational structures.

    Through the Declaration on Future Generations, we’re also looking to the generations yet to be born.

    We’ve established a Strategic Foresight Network and Community of Practice, to ensure our policies, programmes and field operations are based on long-term thinking.

    And later this year, I will appoint a Special Envoy for Future Generations to scale up these efforts.

    Fourth — technology.

    We’re implementing the Global Digital Compact’s calls to close all digital divides and ensure all people benefit from a safe and secure digital space.

    Artificial Intelligence is a particular focus.

    We’re developing a report on innovative voluntary financing options for AI capacity-building to help the Global South harness AI for the greater good, taking into account the recommendations of my High-Level Advisory Body. 

    The zero draft resolution to establish the International Independent Scientific Panel on AI and convene a Global Dialogue on AI Governance was also circulated last week — thanks to the work of the co-facilitators, Spain and Costa Rica.

    I urge the General Assembly to act swiftly to establish this Panel, and ensure that AI expertise and knowledge are available to all countries, while supporting the Global Dialogue.

    The UN system stands ready to support this work.

    Excellencies,

    As we push for these priorities, we’re also improving the efficiency and effectiveness of our operations, as called for by the Pact.

    Last fall, we undertook a comprehensive assessment across UN entities to harness the potential of innovation, data analytics, digital transformation and foresight across our work — as called for in the UN 2.0 initiative.

    We’re already seeing results: from speeding-up disaster assessments in the Asia-Pacific, to strengthening social security programmes in Malawi, to consolidating Information Technology functions across the UN System.

    This work must continue — especially in light of the funding challenges we face.

    We’re counting on your support as we move forward.

    Excellencies,

    The Pact for the Future is an essential part of this process of constant renewal, as we re-shape the multilateral system for the challenges of today’s world.

    We cannot dilute our efforts.

    We need to sustain the same spirit and determination in which the Pact was forged and adopted.

    We count on you to inform, inspire and guide the implementation work ahead.

    Once again, thank you for your ideas and commitment. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: LambdaTest’s Chandni Chopra Wins 2025 DE&I Leadership Award for Championing Inclusive Innovation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Delhi/San Francisco, March 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LambdaTest, a unified agentic AI and cloud engineering platform is proud to announce that Chandni Chopra, VP of People and Culture, has been honored with the DE&I in Tech Leadership Award at The RISING 2025, India’s biggest summit celebrating women in tech and AI, hosted by Analytics India Magazine. The award ceremony took place on March 21, 2025, in Bengaluru.

    The RISING 2025 shines a spotlight on changemakers who are reimagining what inclusive leadership looks like. The DE&I in Tech Leadership Award recognizes individuals who champion equity, actively dismantle barriers and create opportunities for underrepresented communities in the tech ecosystem.

    Over the past five years, Chandni Chopra has been the heart of LambdaTest’s culture journey—moving beyond traditional HR practices to build a workplace where inclusion shows up in daily behavior. She led the creation of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) like The Phoenix Project for women, which provided mentorship opportunities, mental wellness support, and a safe space for honest dialogue. Through carefully curated self-care journals and mental health workshops, women across LambdaTest found new confidence and connection within their teams.

    Chandni also spearheaded LambdaTest’s Diversity & Inclusion Learning Initiative—a comprehensive framework that introduced cultural sensitization workshops, policy reforms for accessibility, and a globally compliant DEI charter backed by a dedicated budget. These efforts have elevated LambdaTest’s workplace into one where equity is not aspirational—it’s operational.

    “What began as a vision to create an inclusive, empowering environment has become the very foundation of LambdaTest’s culture,” said Chandni Chopra, VP of People and Culture, LambdaTest. “This award isn’t just a personal milestone—it’s a collective win for every voice that’s been amplified, every stereotype we’ve challenged, and every door we’ve opened for others to walk through.”

    LambdaTest’s commitment to DE&I goes far beyond policy. As a company, it believes innovation thrives when everyone belongs. The company’s initiatives are embedded in its DNA—whether it’s inclusive hiring, equitable growth paths, or safe spaces for open conversations. The result is a workplace where authenticity is valued and diverse perspectives lead to transformative outcomes.

    “At LambdaTest, we’ve always believed that building great products starts with building inclusive teams,” said Asad Khan, CEO and Founder of LambdaTest. “Chandni’s recognition is a testament to the culture we’re proud of—a place where people feel seen, heard, and empowered. This award is just the beginning.”

    To learn more about The RISING 2025 and this year’s DE&I champions, click here.

    About LambdaTest

    LambdaTest is an AI-native, omnichannel software quality platform that empowers businesses to accelerate time to market through intelligent, cloud-based test authoring, orchestration, and execution. With over 15,000 customers and 2.3 million+ users across 130+ countries, LambdaTest is the trusted choice for modern software testing.

    • Browser & App Testing Cloud: Enables manual and automated testing of web and mobile apps across 10,000+ browsers, real devices, and OS environments, ensuring cross-platform consistency.
    • HyperExecute: An AI-native test execution and orchestration cloud that runs tests up to 70% faster than traditional grids, offering smart test distribution, automatic retries, real-time logs, and seamless CI/CD integration.
    • KaneAI: The world’s first GenAI-native testing agent, leveraging LLMs for effortless test creation, intelligent automation, and self-evolving test execution. It integrates directly with Jira, Slack, GitHub, and other DevOps tools.

    For more information, please visit, https://lambdatest.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/NIGERIA – Bishop Kukah: “The democratization of development leads to the development of democracy”

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Abuja (Agenzia Fides) – “Democracy is a progressive development. Democracy gives one the opportunity to prove one’s failures and gives one a greater chance to correct past mistakes,” said Matthew Hassan Kukah, Bishop of Sokoto in his speech at the conference to celebrate the 60th birthday of Emeka Ihedioha, former governor of Imo State, held in Abuja on March 24.”The American constitution was first written in mind to protect the white property,” Bishop Kukah explained, but over time, amendments were made that extended civil rights to the entire population.Bishop Kukah further emphasized that Africans have inherited a system “that is not ours, but we can’t say it’s not relevant to us.”In this context, the Bishop of Sokoto asked whether there are “differences between democracy in Asia and that of Africa.” The answer, he argued, lies in how well the democratic system succeeds in meeting the development needs of the population. “The democratization of development leads to the development of democracy,” Bishop Kukah emphasized. “That is if you decide to equitably democratize development, and not take every institution, university, medical school whatever to your village and if all the roads are done”. A practice often used by African leaders who favor their home regions at the expense of others. The Bishop emphasized that “if we do not have a mechanism by which we are measuring our growth, our chase for a democratic society becomes an empty chase.”Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, on the other hand, emphasized in his speech that “democracy in Africa has failed because it is not African.” According to the former President, the democratic model imported from the West is in crisis because it is inconsistent with African values, culture, and ways of life. In this context, Obasanjo emphasized the need for an Africa-centric democratic system that truly benefits the people and not just a privileged elite: “Democracy is meant to be a system of government that delivers to all the people, not just a select few. But what do we have today? A government by a small number of people, for a small number of people, while the majority are deprived of their needs.” (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 26/3/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/JAPAN – Archbishop Nappa visits Nagasaki and Tokyo: safeguarding the memory of the Japanese martyrs

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Tokyo (Agenzia Fides) – On Monday, Archbishop Emilio Nappa, Secretary of the Governorate of the Vatican City and former President of the Pontifical Mission Societies, began his visit to Nagasaki, Japan, at Nishizaka Hill, where Saint Paul Miki and his 25 companions were crucified in 1597 while guarding their village. It was a busy program, alternating visits to some important sites in the history of the Japanese Church with equally significant encounters. “In Nagasaki,” said Father Marco Sungsu Kim, a collaborator of the the Dicastery for Evangelization (section for the First Evangelization and the New Particular Churches), who accompanied Archbishop Emilio Nappa, “the delegation visited the new Cathedral, which houses some remains from the time of the atomic bombings, including the head of a statue of the Virgin Mary, and the Church of Oura, a so-called ‘Minor Basilica’ and co-cathedral of the Archdiocese of Nagasaki, where Christians who preserved their faith until the 19th century were rediscovered.”Archbishop Nappa’s visit continued the following day in Tokyo with a visit to the Shinseikaikan Center, founded in 1934 by Father Iwashita as a student dormitory named after Saint Philip. It celebrated its 90th anniversary last year and is currently headed by the Auxiliary Bishop of Tokyo, Andrea Lembo.Archbishop Nappa recalled how since its origins, this center offered not only food and shelter, but also an education based on the values of Catholicism, at a time marked by rampant militarism. “Given the current dominance of nationalism and the many global conflicts, the need for people educated according to these values is becoming ever greater,” Archbishop Nappa said. “It is important to share material goods with the poor, because in this way we can give each other the necessities of life and preserve our fundamental dignity as human beings created in the image of God. However, we must not forget to share the richness of faith with the spiritually poor. I firmly believe that special attention must continue to be paid to this aspect of the commitment to Shinseikaikan.”Yesterday afternoon, at a meeting with catechists of the Archdiocese of Tokyo, Archbishop Nappa recalled that the Catholic Church in Japan, although a minority in the country, nevertheless has an extraordinary history and a centuries-old tradition of martyrdom, distinguished above all by keeping the faith alive during the long years of persecution. In this context, Archbishop Nappa referred to the numerous armed conflicts, particularly in Myanmar, and emphasized the special attention paid by the Archdiocese of Tokyo and the Japanese Church to these peoples. “As former President of the Pontifical Mission Societies, I would like to make a special request to you: Do not forget to teach the Church’s social teaching, both through the catechesis you live in your lives and in the catechesis you address in the classrooms to catechumens and the faithful. Your witness helps us walk the path of forgiveness, reconciliation, and peace. It is an important message of great persuasive power,” the Archbishop concluded. Archbishop Nappa noted the support the Pontifical Mission Societies provide to about 1,200 mission dioceses in Asia, Africa, and Oceania, including Japan, and invited participants to take advantage of the presence of Father Joseph Naoki Momma, National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in Japan, to learn more about opportunities to support the work of missionary priests and local priests in mission territories. From Japan, the former President of the Pontifical Mission Societies will travel to South Korea, where he will participate in the celebrations marking the 60th anniversary of the Pontifical Mission Societies in the Asian country. (EG) (Agenzia Fides, 26/3/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How scratching monkeys can help us understand emotions and consciousness

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Bonaventura Majolo, Professor of Social Evolution, University of Lincoln

    A recent study tested Japanese macaque self scratching Tathoms/Shutterstock

    Scientists Sakumi Iki and Ikuma Adachi recently spent a lot of time watching monkeys scratch themselves.

    Self-scratching among non-human primates is known to indicate social tension and anxiety. The two researchers from Kyoto University, Japan, wanted to use this link to work out whether being anxious (and so scratching a lot) made their monkey subjects more pessimistic, or whether their pessimism was what drove their anxiety (and their scratching).

    Their findings suggest the former is true, as the primates were more likely to make a pessimistic choice if they had scratched their body. This not only provides evidence for an important theory about how physiological changes are linked to emotional states, but also shows that monkeys’ body language can reveal some interesting cues about how animal consciousness may differ from that of humans.

    Several studies have previously shown that self-scratching in primates is linked to social tension and emotional state. For instance, a 1991 study found monkeys who were given an anxiety relief drug seemed to scratch themselves less, whereas monkeys who received an anxiety-inducing drug increased self-scratching.

    Research has also shown subordinate capuchin monkeys self-scratch more when they are approached by a dominant individual, perhaps due to the increased risk of aggression. Japanese macaques with a high tendency to scratch themselves are less likely to make peace after a conflict with their group companions.

    Researchers of animal and human behaviour often use self-scratching as a measure of short-term changes in anxiety, social tension and emotional state. Self-scratching is also linked to social tension in humans: people often scratch more during a short period of high anxiety.

    Self-scratching is an example of what behavioural scientists call displacement behaviour, which includes yawning, lip-biting, fumbling and face-touching.

    Research has shown it can also allow us to better cope with anxiety. For example in 2012, UK researchers asked participants to do difficult (and in some cases unsolvable) arithmetic calculations in front of an audience, and found that participants who displayed higher rates of self-scratching during the test also reported a lower level of anxiety after the test.

    Japanese macaques are well known for bathing in hot springs.
    mapman/Shutterstock

    The researchers at Kyoto University found that macaques seem to have a different relationship to displacement behaviour than humans.

    Iki and Adachi worked with six adult Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata). They used videos of a macaque scratching themselves to induce self-scratching in their study subjects, since this behaviour is contagious, similar to yawning.

    They trained the monkeys to choose between different options on a greyscale touchscreen. The darker the shade of grey, the more likely the monkeys were to get a food reward.

    When they chose the lightest shade of grey, the touchscreen temporarily blanked out. The darkest shade of grey always rewarded the monkeys with food and the three shades in the middle had inconsistent outcomes.

    These stimuli tested whether the monkeys were biased towards optimism or pessimism. The monkeys who self-scratched were more likely to be pessimistic about the outcome of the inconsistent stimuli. The researchers measured pessimism in terms of reaction time.

    The longer it took a monkey to choose the ambiguous shades, the more pessimistic the researchers believed the monkeys to be. Monkeys didn’t seem to hesitate if they didn’t scratch. The researchers argue that scratching was a sign the monkeys were anxious and being anxious made the monkeys more pessimistic about the future.

    Their study was one of the first to test what’s known as the James-Lange theory in non-human animals. The theory argues there is a sequential connection between behavioural and physiological components of emotions and our experience of these emotions. According to this idea, behavioural and physiological responses happen first. This means, for example, that having an irregular heartbeat would make us anxious.

    The new results support the James–Lange theory. Negative emotions (measured by self-scratching) induce pessimism, and not vice-versa. The areas of the brain linked to basic emotions, such as fear, are similar in mammals. However, it is unclear whether the way we experience these emotions is comparable to other species.

    For example, two human subjects who have similar physiological responses in relation to anxiety may perceive it differently. One subject may be OK with anxiety, another subject may struggle to handle such situation. We know non-human primates have individual responses to anxiety, but we don’t fully know why and we can’t ask them.

    This study highlights interesting similarities, but also differences between humans and other species. A possible difference is related to consciousness. Humans have a conscious experience of their bodily responses which affects how we respond to them.

    An irregular heartbeat can make us anxious. This isn’t just because it causes a physiological response that induces stress, but also since we know that something is wrong when we feel that our heartbeat is irregular, which can make us even more anxious.

    I say this is “possibly” a difference because some researchers argue that other animals, like chimpanzees or elephants, may have some form of consciousness.

    Humans, unlike the Japanese macaques of this study, can also have the opposite temporal pattern predicted by the James-Lange theory. If I know that I have an exam tomorrow, this thought may make my heartbeat become irregular.

    The short-term link between emotional responses and the perception of these responses could be shared by many primates (the group of animals that include humans, other apes, monkeys and lemurs) and other mammals too. But research is yet to demonstrate this conclusively.

    Research like the one by Iki and Adachi demonstrates the importance of studying a wide range of species, and not just the ones closest to humans, such as chimpanzees and bonobos, to better understand what factors shape behavioural and cognitive skills in the animal kingdom.

    Bonaventura Majolo 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. How scratching monkeys can help us understand emotions and consciousness – https://theconversation.com/how-scratching-monkeys-can-help-us-understand-emotions-and-consciousness-250694

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Trade Crypto with 100x Leverage and No KYC – Get Double Deposit Bonus and $50 Instantly on BexBack

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, March 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With Bitcoin’s price fluctuating below $100,000, many analysts predict a prolonged period of high volatility in the crypto market. Holding spot positions may struggle to generate short-term profits in such conditions. As a result, 100x leverage futures trading has become the preferred tool for seasoned investors looking to maximize potential gains in this volatile market. BexBack Exchange is ramping up its efforts to offer traders unmatched promotional packages. The platform now features a 100% deposit bonus, a $50 welcome bonus for new users, and 100x leverage on cryptocurrency trading, providing exceptional opportunities for investors.

    What Is 100x Leverage and How Does It Work?

    Simply put, 100x leverage allows you to open larger trading positions with less capital. For example:

    Suppose the Bitcoin price is $100,000 that day, and you open a long contract with 1 BTC. After using 100x leverage, the transaction amount is equivalent to 100 BTC.

    One day later, if the price rises to $105,000, your profit will be (105,000 – 100,000) * 100 BTC / 100,000 = 5 BTC, a yield of up to 500%.

    With BexBack’s deposit bonus

    BexBack offers a 100% deposit bonus. If the initial investment is 2 BTC, the profit will increase to 10 BTC, and the return on investment will double to 1000%.

    Note: Although leveraged trading can magnify profits, you also need to be wary of liquidation risks.

    How Does the 100% Deposit Bonus Work?
    The deposit bonus from BexBack cannot be directly withdrawn but can be used to open larger positions and increase potential profits. Additionally, during significant market fluctuations, the bonus can serve as extra margin, effectively reducing the risk of liquidation.

    About BexBack?

    BexBack is a leading cryptocurrency derivatives platform that offers 100x leverage on BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, and XRP futures contracts. It is headquartered in Singapore with offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina. It holds a US MSB (Money Services Business) license and is trusted by more than 500,000 traders worldwide. Accepts users from the United States, Canada, and Europe. There are no deposit fees, and traders can get the most thoughtful service, including 24/7 customer support.

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    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector–including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining–complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/45cc97c2-d573-496a-92b1-aac5e7b07744

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    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fc50718a-0b65-416c-aec4-6ee36f220140

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: Eyeing free trade port milestone, China pushes toward higher-level opening up

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

    BOAO, Hainan, March 26 — As the world economy faces mounting uncertainty and rising protectionism, China is reaffirming its commitment to openness, with the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) emerging as an important gateway driving the country’s opening up in the new era.

    At the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) annual conference, officials and experts underscored the significance of the Hainan FTP, as preparations accelerate for its independent customs operations, scheduled to begin by the end of 2025.

    “Following the launch of independent customs operations, the Hainan FTP is expected to further improve the free and convenient flow of trade and investment with the rest of the world, while forging even closer ties with China’s vast domestic market,” said Liu Xiaoming, governor of south China’s island province of Hainan.

    Local officials told Xinhua that preparations for the independent customs operations, a milestone in the construction of the Hainan FTP, have entered a critical sprint stage. All 31 checkpoint facility projects required for the operations have been completed, laying a solid foundation for the efficient movement of goods, people, and other key factors.

    Hainan is China’s first province to transform an entire island, spanning 34,000 square kilometers, into a free trade port that serves as a testbed for the unrestricted flow of goods, services, capital and data.

    “The mission of a free trade zone or port is to break down barriers, not to build high walls, and to create opportunities, not to monopolize the benefits,” Liu said, adding that Hainan is willing to cooperate with other global FTPs in areas such as logistics, industries and green development.

    Hainan FTP is also a frontier for the innovation of regulations and mechanisms, according to Zhou Xiaochuan, vice chairman of the BFA.

    As a key platform, the FTP can offer opportunities for countries worldwide, particularly those in Asia, to explore China’s vast market — home to over 1.4 billion people.

    “I think the FTP has great possibility to help international businesses get attracted to China and expand not only to serve China but also the rest of the world,” said Carl F. Fey, professor of strategy at BI Norwegian Business School.

    By the end of 2024, Hainan was home to 9,979 foreign-invested enterprises, 77.3 percent of which were established after June 2020, when China released its master plan for the Hainan FTP. The number of countries and regions investing in the province has grown from 43 in 2018 to 174 today.

    BFA Chairman and former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon called China’s decision to build the Hainan FTP “a courageous move that takes vision and leadership.”

    Highlighting the significance of Hainan alongside other global FTPs from Dubai, Singapore and Hong Kong, Ban added that such models demonstrate what trade and openness can deliver for growth, well-being, and sustainability at a time when globalization faces headwinds.

    The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development recently revised its global GDP forecast downward, from 3.3 percent to 3.1 percent for 2025 and 3 percent for 2026, citing higher trade barriers in several G20 economies and increased geopolitical and policy uncertainty weighing on investment and household spending.

    Participants at the forum hailed the Hainan FTP as a prime example of China’s higher-level opening up.

    Since 1978, China’s commitment to reform and opening up has transformed it from an impoverished nation into a market-oriented economic powerhouse, driving high-quality development and creating opportunities shared with the rest of the world.

    “Regardless of changes in the external environment, we should remain steadfast in our commitment to opening up,” said the Chinese government work report released early this month. “We should steadily expand institutional opening up and take the initiative to open wider and advance unilateral opening up in a well-ordered way, to promote reform and development through greater openness.”

    In late 2024, China granted zero tariff treatment to 100 percent of tax lines from all the least developed countries that have established diplomatic relations with China.

    Since last year, the country has introduced measures to expand opening up in sectors such as value-added telecommunications and healthcare, completely removed foreign investment access restrictions in manufacturing, and reduced nationwide foreign investment access restrictions from 31 to 29 items.

    “We will ensure national treatment for foreign-funded enterprises in fields such as access to production factors, license application, standards setting, and government procurement,” the government work report said.

    Thanks to these efforts, nearly 90 percent of surveyed respondents expressed that they were “very satisfied” or “relatively satisfied” with the business environment in China in 2024, an increase of 2.1 percentage points compared to 2023, according to a report released by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade.

    China’s opening up at a high level, undoubtedly, is of great significance and will bring new opportunities for Asia and the world at large, Ban said.

    China’s GDP grew by 5 percent year on year in 2024, ranking among the world’s fastest-growing major economies and continuing to contribute about 30 percent to global economic growth.

    Looking ahead, Zhou Xiaochuan expressed confidence that as the Chinese government accelerates the rollout of core policies for the Hainan FTP, the province will play an increasingly vital role in a changing world, strengthening Asia’s ties and supporting broader global cooperation.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China boosts global confidence for win-win cooperation

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

    Beijing, March 26 — Against the backdrop of global economic fragmentation and rising uncertainties, China reaffirmed its commitment to innovation-driven high-quality development and global cooperation at the just-concluded China Development Forum (CDF) 2025.

    Chinese Premier Li Qiang, who delivered a keynote speech at the opening ceremony of CDF 2025, underscored China’s commitment to its 2025 growth target of around 5 percent, signaling strong confidence in the country’s economic prospects.

    The decision reflects both China’s profound understanding of its economic conditions, and confidence in its governance capacity and future development potential, Li said, calling for the combination of more proactive and impactful macro policies with structural reforms, and voicing hope that China will continue to welcome enterprises from around the world with open arms.

    The premier added that the country will safeguard free trade, and contribute to the smooth and stable operation of global industrial and supply chains.

    Themed “Unleashing Development Momentum for Stable Growth of Global Economy,” the high-profile gathering held from March 23 to 24 in Beijing brought together Chinese policymakers, global business leaders, and leading international scholars to chart a course for sustainable growth amid uncertainties.

    “China is open for business and China is set for growth,” said Ola Kallenius, chairman of the board of management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, on the sidelines of the event.

    STABILITY AMID UNCERTAINTIES

    As the theme of stability resonated throughout the forum discussions, Han Wenxiu, executive deputy director of the Office of the Central Committee for Financial and Economic Affairs, provided insight into China’s economic resilience and stability to counteract global uncertainties.

    “Amid rising external instability and uncertainty, China will remain firmly focused on pursuing its own development, leveraging the certainty of high-quality growth to offset external uncertainties and striving to serve as a stabilizing anchor for the global economy,” Han added.

    International observers echoed confidence in China’s economic prospects. Jeffrey Sachs, renowned economist and director of Columbia University’s Center for Sustainable Development, told Xinhua that China’s around-5-percent growth target is “perfectly achievable,” adding that the country is “booming in key sectors, especially digital, artificial intelligence, robotics, and this is going to propel a Chinese growth.”

    In the eyes of Standard Chartered Group Chief Executive Bill Winters, China’s growth story has shifted. “It is now about transformation and unleashing new productive forces to flourish to support high-quality growth,” he said.

    A PwC report released at the CDF noted that over the past two years, driven by new quality productive forces, China has demonstrated a commercial evolution path distinct from those of the traditional industrialized nations, marked by improvements in production factors, transformations in business models, and the intelligent reshaping of industrial chains.

    “This has opened up new opportunities for global business investment and development in China, highlighting the new advantages of the Chinese market during the global economic transition period,” the report read.

    INNOVATION AS NEW GROWTH ENGINE

    Finance Minister Lan Fo’an offered concrete details about China’s supportive fiscal policies, emphasizing their role in stimulating innovation and consumption. “We’re implementing targeted measures to convert potential demand into real growth drivers,” Lan explained.

    “This includes increasing fiscal support for tech innovation and providing tangible assistance to private enterprises.” He specifically highlighted plans to “accelerate the development of new quality productive forces” through strategic investments in artificial intelligence (AI) and other cutting-edge technologies.

    Data showcased China’s progress: its global innovation index ranking rose to 11th in 2024, with 19.6 percent, 27 percent, 64 percent, and 91.5 percent year-on-year growth in semiconductor wafers, industrial robots, bullet trains, and drones respectively in early 2024.

    The nation’s emphasis on innovation as a driver for high-quality growth resonated strongly throughout the forum. Siemens AG President and CEO Roland Busch pointed to China’s advances in AI and high-tech manufacturing.

    “China gave the answer for where growth would come from: Growth from high tech, growth by higher efficiency, and high-quality growth,” he remarked, adding that China surprises the world with innovations like the open foundational model R-1 developed by DeepSeek.

    Kallenius also praised China’s innovation-driven market. “China’s competitive advantage lies in its passion for innovation,” he said. “That is why Mercedes-Benz continues to deepen its presence in China.”

    Reflecting this trend, AstraZeneca CEO Pascal Soriot emphasized the country’s emergence as a global leader in life sciences. “Today, China is home to one of AstraZeneca’s Global R&D Centres, where our researchers in Shanghai are spearheading 20 global clinical trials and advancing over 200 pipeline projects,” he said.

    Prior to the forum, the British pharmaceutical giant signed a landmark 2.5-billion-U.S. dollar agreement on Friday to invest in Beijing over the next five years, the largest single investment in Beijing’s biopharmaceutical sector in recent years.

    Under the agreement, AstraZeneca will establish a global strategic R&D center in Beijing, its sixth worldwide and second in China after one in Shanghai. The new center, equipped with an advanced AI and data science laboratory, will accelerate early-stage drug research and clinical development.

    “Looking ahead, China will not only serve as a global innovation hub but also a core arena for setting standards and reshaping industrial chains,” the PwC report added.

    OPEN COLLABORATION FOR SHARED FUTURE

    From CDF 2025 in Beijing to the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) Annual Conference 2025 in south China’s Hainan Province, foreign executives reaffirmed their commitment to China as a key market for investment and collaboration: China’s complete industrial system, rich application scenarios, vast market scale, and large talent pool offer extensive collaboration opportunities for international industrial and technological innovation.

    The Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry in China said in its latest survey that 58 percent of its member firms plan to expand or maintain investments in China through 2025, while 53 percent of U.S. companies are expected to invest more in the country, according to the American Chamber of Commerce in China.

    BMW AG Chairman Oliver Zipse stressed that “economic prosperity comes from openness, not protectionism,” while criticizing trade barriers. “The best response to ‘de-risking’ strategies is more cooperation, not less.”

    Speaking to global business leaders attending the CDF, Lan also emphasized that China’s fiscal policy will support high-standard opening up, and that China will ensure equal treatment for all types of business entities and continue to improve the business environment.

    “For global companies, China’s commitment to high-tech innovation and open collaboration makes it an indispensable partner for long-term growth,” said Busch, highlighting China’s rapid technological advancements and collaborative spirit.

    Jean-Pascal Tricoire, chairman of Schneider Electric, said: “China is not only our second-largest worldwide market but it’s also a vital source of innovation.” For the French industrial giant, China will remain a key partner as it navigates the complexities of a rapidly changing world, he added.

    While China accelerates its push toward innovation-led growth and deepens its commitment to openness, global businesses continue to see the country as a critical partner in achieving long-term economic prosperity, and as the premier put it, there is a growing need for countries to open their markets and for enterprises to share resources, in order to address challenges and pursue common prosperity.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Sanjay Malhotra: Address – Private Sector Collaborative Forum of the Financial Action Task Force

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    It is a pleasure to be here at the Private Sector Collaborative Forum (PSCF) 2025 of the Financial Action Task Force. I am happy to note that this is the first time that the forum is being held in India. I thank FATF for giving us this opportunity. In my previous role as the Secretary in the Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance, Government of India, I had the opportunity of being closely associated with the FATF during our mutual evaluation last year.

    About FATF

    Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the standard setting body for illicit financing has come a long way since its establishment in 1989. Over the years, it has evolved from an organisation with only 16 members to a global forum with 40 members. Through the FATF-styled regional bodies1, its reach is even wider. The standards developed by FATF are used by over 200 jurisdictions to combat money laundering (ML), terrorism financing (TF) and proliferation financing. The implementation of the standards has played an important role in strengthening the global financial system and making the world a safer place.

    India’s Mutual Evaluation by FATF

    India accords immense importance to Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (CFT). Last year, India underwent the mutual evaluation by the FATF. India was placed in the ‘regular follow-up’ category, a distinction shared by only a few other G20 countries2. This is a recognition of our effective AML and CFT framework. It demonstrates our commitment to AML and CFT. This is a result of many years of building and continuously improving and strengthening the financial system of our country.

    This was possible due to the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders, led by the Government of India including financial entities and designated non-financial businesses and professions in the private and public sector, regulators, and the state governments. The private sector plays a vital role in keeping the financial systems secure. Their role in implementing due diligence procedures, conducting robust risk assessments, monitoring transactions, and reporting suspicious activities is critical for preventing the abuse of the financial system. They identify suspicious activities and help government agencies in destroying illicit financial networks.

    Strong public-private partnerships form the bedrock for safeguarding the integrity of the financial system. In India, we recognize the importance of close cooperation between public and private sector stakeholders in achieving these goals. Reserve Bank of India, as the regulator and supervisor of a large segment of the financial system in India has diligently and consistently worked towards building and ensuring implementation of a strong AML and CFT framework in this segment of the financial system, in line with FATF recommendations. The Reserve Bank has taken several initiatives to enhance cooperation and coordination with various stakeholders. Similarly, the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU)-India has also set up FPAC3, a public-private cooperation forum for facilitating closer interaction and collaboration. It has also supported the setting up of ARIFAC4 – a cross sectoral forum for the private sector reporting entities to collaborate among themselves.

    It is a result of these collaborative efforts that we have been able to build and demonstrate a robust and resilient AML and CFT framework. I compliment all the stakeholders, especially, the regulated entities in the financial sector as well as the designated non-financial businesses and professions for the successful mutual evaluation.

    However, as all of you are aware, the threats from money laundering and terror financing to the national and global financial systems are continuously evolving and becoming more sophisticated. This is primarily due to technological advancements. In order to effectively counter these threats, we need to continue the close cooperation among various stakeholders – government agencies, financial entities in both the public and private sectors, civil society, and others.

    The mutual evaluation process was rigorous and detailed. While providing us with valuable insights into our strengths, it has highlighted some areas of improvement in our AML-CFT framework. We are determined to further strengthen our financial system to deter and combat illicit financial activities taking into consideration the recommendations made during the evaluation. We will continue to strive for continuous improvement in this regard.

    Some thoughts on the Agenda for PSCF 2025

    I am told that yesterday’s sessions were very engaging and produced lively discussions. Looking at the agenda for today and tomorrow, I am confident that the deliberations on contemporary topics such as evolving AML-CFT landscape, financial inclusion & humanitarian channels, risk-based approach to supervision, digitalization & information sharing, beneficial ownership and countering of proliferation financing, will also be exciting. Let me outline some of my thoughts for the forum on these areas.

    First, while we all continue to make our financial systems safe and secure against money laundering and terror financing, we as policy makers need to be mindful that our measures are not over-zealous and do not stifle legitimate activities and investments. You would appreciate that multiple laws and rules, each with their own level of granularity cast a high level of burden of compliance on the regulated financial service providers. This is relevant in the context of AML-CFT too. Therefore, we need to have laws and regulations which, with surgical precision, target only the illegitimate and illicit, rather than use them as blunt tools which unintentionally hurt even the honest.

    Similarly, even while implementing the legal framework and regulations, we need to keep in mind the impact on persons and businesses. Risk-based approach is recommended in this regard. But let us keep in mind that this is only a step forward in reducing compliance burden. Let us appreciate that it is not the ultimate solution, as any risk-based approach is not perfect; it would have false positives and false negatives. We need to continuously refine and improve our risk assessment models to make them robust.

    To make these improvements, we need to improve the quality of our data and harness emerging technologies. This will help improve screening of transactions and detection of suspicious activities thereby reducing false positives and false negatives. Considering the evolving landscape in the area of money laundering resulting from changing customer behaviour and evolving products and services, we need to continuously augment AML risk assessment framework and make appropriate system enhancements on a regular basis after assessing the impact of ML and other risks. The focus has to also be on understanding the latest trends and developments in the financial world that can be exploited by criminals and accordingly develop tools and enabling frameworks that will allow us to detect suspicious transactions and activities early and take pre-emptive action. With the adoption of new technological tools and models, I am sure that AML-CFT risk assessments can be further fine-tuned. I would urge you all to discuss and share best practices in identification, mitigation and supervision of AML-CFT risks. This will not only help to reduce compliance burden on the Regulated Entities but also result in optimal allocation of supervisory resources.

    While India has made remarkable progress in financial inclusion, we need to ensure that we continue to widen and deepen it. The discussions on FATF standards to promote financial inclusion need to find answers to the challenge of aligning financial inclusion and financial integrity, especially for the developing economies. It must be ensured that regulations do not create unintended barriers to financial inclusion. We need to be mindful of customer rights and convenience while fulfilling the due diligence requirements. I am happy to note that the amendments to Recommendation 1 and its interpretive note under the Mexican presidency intend to foster and promote financial inclusion without compromising on financial integrity. Similar approach is needed to extend access of financial channels for supporting humanitarian aid.

    In recent years, digitalisation has been increasingly applied to customer onboarding and customer due diligence (CDD) processes. India has made huge strides in this regard too. The digital KYC and video KYC are shining examples of this. The Central KYC Records Registry (CKYCR) with more than one billion records is another example, which has the potential of ushering in a new era of customer onboarding by making it easier and seamless not only for customers but also for regulated entities to perform customer identification and due diligence. I am told there is a separate session to deliberate on the state of play of technical solutions in customer due diligence area. The discussions could be helpful in further enhancing the capability and utility of CKYCR manifold.

    Further, during the process of CDD, reporting entities collect a large amount of data from the customers. Moreover, there are requirements of sharing of information with Financial Intelligence Units, law enforcement agencies and data registries leading to concerns regarding data protection and sharing of information without consent. India has recently enacted a law for Digital Personal Data Protection. Exchange of experiences from different jurisdictions will help us in better implementing the law in our country.

    Another important area which needs discussion is the travel rule. In today’s world, fast payment systems are revolutionizing financial access and deepening financial inclusion. Developing countries like India have made huge progress in making digital payments accessible, affordable, and convenient. While card networks have helped developed economies in improving payment systems, fast payment systems have assisted Emerging Market and Developing Economies (EMDEs) leapfrog in this area. We have also enabled cross border payments using fast payment systems with a few countries. We will continue to work towards fulfilling our commitment to the effective implementation of the next phase of G20 roadmap towards inclusive cross-border payments by 2027. In this context, the ongoing discussions on FATF Recommendation 16 (R.16), known as the travel rule, assume importance. To meet the G20 objective of making cross-border payments faster, cheaper, more transparent and more inclusive, while maintaining their safety and security, it would be desirable to make the travel rule technology-neutral.

    Lastly, discussions regarding combating proliferation financing and sanctions evasion need to answer questions related to identification of products and services which are most vulnerable to exploitation and the mitigation of the risks related to such products. This forum can discuss the best practices as well as challenges in this regard.

    Conclusion

    To conclude, I would like to stress that through our collaborative efforts, we can safeguard the trust that underpins the global financial framework. Together, let us continue to collaborate and innovate in building a financial ecosystem that is not only safe and secure but also fast, convenient, accessible and affordable. Let us build financial systems that not only thwart the attempts of money laundering, terror financing and proliferation financing, but also support financial inclusion, encourage innovation, and facilitate economic growth. In the end, I wish the forum very fruitful and productive deliberations.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Global: From Greenland to Fort Bragg, America is caught in a name game where place names become political tools

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Seth T. Kannarr, PhD Candidate in Geography, University of Tennessee

    President Donald Trump re-renamed Denali as Mount McKinley in 2025. Tim Rains/National Park Service, CC BY

    Place names are more than just labels on a map. They influence how people learn about the world around them and perceive their place in it.

    Names can send messages and suggest what is and isn’t valued in society. And the way that they are changed over time can signal cultural shifts.

    The United States is in the midst of a place-renaming moment. From the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, to the return of Forts Bragg and Benning and the newly re-renamed Mount McKinley in Alaska’s Denali National Park, we are witnessing a consequential shift in the politics of place naming.

    This sudden rewriting of the nation’s map – done to “restore American greatness,” according to President Donald Trump’s executive order that made some of them official – is part of a name game that recognizes place names as powerful brands and political tools.

    In our research on place naming, we explore how this “name game” is used to assert control over shared symbols and embed subtle and not-so-subtle messages in the landscape.

    As geography teachers and researchers, we also recognize the educational and emotional impact the name game can have on the public.

    Place names can have psychological effects

    Renaming a place is always an act of power.

    People in power have long used place naming to claim control over the identity of the place, bolster their reputations, retaliate against opponents and achieve political goals.

    These moves can have strong psychological effects, particularly when the name evokes something threatening. Changing a place name can fundamentally shift how people view, relate to or feel that they belong within that place.

    In Shenandoah County, Virginia, students at two schools originally named for Confederate generals have been on an emotional roller coaster of name changes in recent years. The schools were renamed Mountain View and Honey Run in 2020 amid the national uproar over the murder of George Floyd, a Black man killed by a police officer in Minneapolis.

    Four years later, the local school board reinstated the original Confederate names after conservatives took control of the board.

    One Black eighth grader at Mountain View High School — now re-renamed Stonewall Jackson High School — testified at a board meeting about how the planned change would affect her:

    “I would have to represent a man that fought for my ancestors to be slaves. If this board decides to restore the names, I would not feel like I was valued and respected,” she said. The board still approved the change, 5-1.

    Even outside of schools, place names operate as a “hidden curriculum.” They provide narratives to the public about how the community or nation sees itself – as well as whose histories and perspectives it considers important or worthy of public attention.

    Place names affect how people perceive, experience and emotionally connect to their surroundings in both conscious and subconscious ways. Psychologists, sociologists and geographers have explored how this sense of place manifests itself into the psyche, creating either attachment or aversion to place, whether it’s a school, mountain or park.

    A tale of two forts

    Renaming places can rally a leader’s supporters through rebranding.

    Trump’s orders to restore the names Fort Bragg and Fort Benning, both originally named for Confederate generals, illustrate this effect. The names were changed to Fort Liberty and Fort Moore in 2023 after Congress passed a law banning the use of Confederate names for federal installations.

    Veterans and other guests posed in 2023 next to a newly unveiled sign for Fort Moore, named for Lt. Gen. Harold ‘Hal’ Moore, who served in Vietnam, and his wife, Julia Moore. In 2025, President Donald Trump reverted the name back to Fort Benning.
    Cheney Orr/AFP via Getty Images

    Trump made a campaign promise to his followers to “bring back the name” of Fort Bragg if reelected.

    To get around the federal ban, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth identified two unrelated decorated Army veterans with the same last names — Bragg and Benning — but without any Confederate connections, to honor instead.

    Call it a sleight of hand or a stroke of genius if you’d like, this tactic allowed the Department of Defense to revive politically charged names without violating the law.

    A soldier walks beside a sign that was unveiled when Fort Liberty was rededicated as Fort Bragg during a ceremony on base on March 7, 2025.
    AP Photo/Chris Seward

    The restoration of the names Bragg and Benning may feel like a symbolic homecoming for those who resisted the original name change or have emotional ties to the names through their memories of living and serving on the base, rather than a connection to the specific namesakes.

    However, the names are still reminders of the military bases’ original association with defenders of slavery.

    The place-renaming game

    A wave of place-name changes during the Obama and Biden administrations focused on removing offensive or derogatory place names and recognizing Indigenous names.

    For example, Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains, was renamed to Kuwohi in September 2024, shifting the name from a Confederate general to a Cherokee word meaning “the mulberry place.”

    Under the Trump administration, however, place-name changes are being advanced explicitly to push back against reform efforts, part of a broader assault on what Trump calls “woke culture.”

    The view from a lookout tower on Kuwohi, formerly known as Clingmans Dome, in the Great Smoky Mountains.
    National Park Service



    Read more:
    From Confederate general to Cherokee heritage: Why returning the name Kuwohi to the Great Smoky Mountains matters

    President Barack Obama changed Alaska’s Mount McKinley to Denali in 2015 to acknowledge Indigenous heritage and a long-standing name for the mountain. Officials in Alaska had requested the name change to Denali years earlier and supported the name change in 2015.

    Trump, on his first day in office in January 2025, moved to rename Denali back to Mount McKinley, over the opposition of Republican politicians in Alaska. The state Legislature passed a resolution a few days later asking Trump to reconsider.

    Georgia Rep. Earl “Buddy” Carter made a recent legislative proposal to rename Greenland as “Red, White, and Blueland” in support of Trump’s expansionist desire to purchase the island, which is an autonomous territory of Denmark.

    Danish officials and Greenlanders saw Carter’s absurd proposal as insulting and damaging to diplomatic relations. It is not the first time that place renaming has been used as a form of symbolic insult in international relations.

    Renaming the Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America might have initially seemed improbable, but it is already reflected in common navigation apps.

    Google Maps displays the name ‘Gulf of America’ instead of Gulf of Mexico in March 2025.
    Google INEGI



    Read more:
    Yes, Trump can rename the Gulf of Mexico – just not for everyone. Here’s how it works

    A better way to choose place names

    When leaders rename a place in an abrupt, unilateral fashion — often for ideological reasons — they risk alienating communities that deeply connect with those names as a form of memory, identity and place attachment.

    A better alternative, in our view, would be to make renaming shared landscapes participatory, with opportunities for meaningful public involvement in the renaming process.

    This approach does not avoid name changes, but it suggests the changes should respond to the social and psychological needs of communities and the evolving cultural identity of places — and not simply be used to score political points.

    Instead, encouraging public participation — such as through landscape impact assessments and critical audits that take the needs of affected communities seriously — can cultivate a sense of shared ownership in the decision that may give those names more staying power.

    The latest place renamings are already affecting the classroom experience. Students are not just memorizing new place labels, but they are also being asked to reevaluate the meaning of those places and their own relationship with the nation and the world.

    As history has shown around the world, one of the major downsides of leaders imposing name changes is that the names can be easily replaced as soon as the next regime takes power. The result can be a never-ending name game.

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

    – ref. From Greenland to Fort Bragg, America is caught in a name game where place names become political tools – https://theconversation.com/from-greenland-to-fort-bragg-america-is-caught-in-a-name-game-where-place-names-become-political-tools-251201

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –