Category: Balkans

MIL-OSI: Capgemini to acquire WNS to create a global leader in Agentic AI-powered Intelligent Operations
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Media relations:
Victoire Grux
Tel.: +33 6 04 52 16 55
victoire.grux@capgemini.com

Investor relations:
Vincent Biraud
Tel.: +33 1 47 54 50 87
vincent.biraud@capgemini.com

Capgemini to acquire WNS to create a global leader in Agentic AI-powered Intelligent Operations
- Creation of a leader in Intelligent Operations to capture enterprise investment in Agentic AI to transform their end-to-end business processes
- Acquisition of a leading player in Digital BPS (Business Process Services) to combine capabilities and scale to address the strategic opportunity driven by Agentic AI
- Transaction immediately accretive to Capgemini’s revenue growth and operating margin
- Expected accretion to Capgemini’s normalized EPS of 4% before synergies in 2026, and 7% post-synergies in 2027
- Definitive transaction agreement entered into pursuant to which Capgemini will acquire WNS for a cash consideration of 76.50 USD per share
- Transaction unanimously approved by the board of directors of both companies and expected to close by the end of the year
Paris, July 7, 2025 – Capgemini (Euronext Paris: CAP), a global business and technology transformation partner, and WNS (NYSE: WNS), a leading digital-led business transformation and services company, today announced that they have entered into a definitive transaction agreement pursuant to which Capgemini will acquire WNS for a cash consideration of 76.50 USD per WNS share, which represents a premium of 28% to the last 90-day average¹ share price, of 27% to the last 30-day average¹ share price and a premium of 17% to the last closing share price on July 3, 2025. The total cash consideration will amount to $3.3 billion, excluding WNS net financial debt². The transaction will be accretive to Capgemini’s normalized EPS by 4% before synergies in 2026 and 7% post synergies in 2027. The transaction has been unanimously approved by both Capgemini’s and WNS’ Boards of Directors.

“Enterprises are rapidly adopting Generative AI and Agentic AI to transform their operations end-to-end. Business Process Services will be the showcase for Agentic AI. Capgemini’s acquisition of WNS will provide the Group with the scale and vertical sector expertise to capture that rapidly emerging strategic opportunity created by the paradigm shift from traditional BPS to Agentic AI-powered Intelligent Operations,” comments Aiman Ezzat, Chief Executive Officer of Capgemini. “Together we will create a leader in Intelligent Operations, uniquely positioned to support organizations in their AI-powered business process transformation, blending the critical capabilities needed from consulting, technology and platforms to deep process and industry expertise. This will address the client needs for Agentic AI-driven process transformation to deliver efficiency and agility through hyper-automation while achieving superior business outcomes.

WNS brings to the Group its high growth, margin accretive and resilient Digital Business Process Services, which is the springboard to Intelligent Operations, while further increasing our exposure to the US market. Immediate cross-selling opportunities will be unlocked through the integration of our complementary offerings and clients. I am looking forward to welcoming the WNS global team to Capgemini.”

“As a recognized leader in the Digital Business Process Services space, we see the next wave of transformation being driven by intelligent, domain-centric operations that unlock strategic value for our clients. Organizations that have already digitized are now seeking to reimagine their operating models by embedding AI at the core—shifting from automation to autonomy,” said Keshav R. Murugesh, Chief Executive Officer of WNS. “By combining our deep domain and process expertise with Capgemini’s global reach, cutting-edge Gen AI and Agentic AI capabilities, a robust partner ecosystem, and advanced technology platforms, we are creating a powerful proposition that accelerates enterprise reinvention. WNS’ complementary portfolio of horizontal and industry-specific solutions will significantly enhance Capgemini’s rapidly growing Business Services footprint, enabling next-generation, data-driven operations across sectors. Just as importantly, our shared values, cultural alignment, and complementary client relationships ensure a seamless integration—unlocking exciting opportunities for innovation, co-creation, and growth across all stakeholder groups.”

“WNS and Capgemini share a bold, future-focused vision for Intelligent Operations. I’m confident that Capgemini is the ideal partner at the right time in WNS’ journey to extend our capabilities, accelerate innovation, and establish a leadership position in this rapidly evolving market,” said Timothy L. Main, Chairman of WNS Board of Directors. “This marks a pivotal chapter in WNS’ growth—enhancing the resilience and agility of our clients through advanced AI-driven solutions, creating sustained value for our investors, and opening up new avenues for our employees to thrive within a global technology powerhouse.”

WNS, a leader in the resilient high-growth and margin accretive Digital BPS market

WNS is a leading and trusted business transformation and services partner that uniquely blends deep industry knowledge with business process management, technology, analytics and AI expertise to create market differentiation for clients. With digital-led transformation solutions deployed to clients across 8 industries where it deploys its highly automated platforms to deliver stronger business outcomes, WNS is a leader in Digital Business Process Services (BPS). This operating model enables strategic engagements that are critical to clients’ daily operations materialized in long-term contracts with recurring revenues streams. Through an expanded ecosystem of partners and network of delivery centers, WNS serves a large portfolio of blue-chip clients, such as³ United Airlines, Aviva, M&T Bank, Centrica and McCain Foods.

The high-quality business model of WNS, supported by non-linear pricing models and superior profitability has driven a c.+9% constant currency revenue growth on average over the last 3 fiscal years⁴, to reach $1,266 million of revenue⁵ in fiscal year 2025⁴ with an 18.7%⁶ operating margin.

Global organizations are in constant need of strategic partners to support their transformation to enhance efficiency and accelerate growth. This continues to be a key driver of the Digital BPS market and WNS targets revenue growth of +7% to +11% for FY2026.

Immediate unlocking of value

This transaction will position Capgemini as a leader in Digital BPS blending horizontal and vertical process expertise, with a global footprint. With combined revenues of €1.9 billion in 2024 in Digital BPS, this will strengthen Capgemini’s ability to accompany clients on their business and technology transformation journeys.

The mix of WNS and Capgemini’s complementary offerings and clients will immediately unlock cross-selling opportunities. It will also lay down the foundations to build the capabilities to seize the Intelligent Operations strategic market opportunity.

Intelligent Operations – Agentic AI creates a paradigm shift that opens a strategic opportunity

The largest opportunity for global organizations to create value with Gen AI and Agentic AI lies in the fundamental redesign of their operations and business processes. It will attract a significant share of their AI investments as they seek to become AI-powered companies to lead their market. This is creating demand for a new type of business process services: Intelligent Operations.

Intelligent Operations answers these business needs, providing a consulting-led approach to transform and operate horizontal and vertical business processes leveraging Gen AI and Agentic AI. It addresses clients’ goal of efficiency, speed and agility through process hyper-automation, while significantly improving business outcomes by combining data, AI and digital.

AI technologies trigger a paradigm shift in delivering business process services: from labor-intensive services to being consulting-led and tech-driven. In parallel, client focus has shifted from efficiency gains toward end-to-end value creation and business outcomes, opening opportunities to add non-linear revenues (i.e. transaction-based, subscription-based or outcome-based models). This is creating a rapidly growing market opportunity.

Combining the capabilities and scale required to lead in Intelligent Operations

Both Capgemini and WNS are already pioneering Intelligent Operations. Capgemini with its consulting-led end-to-end transformation of processes, advanced AI tools and technology stacks, and BPS platforms, while WNS has developed a set of sector-specific AI-led solutions recently augmented by the acquisition of Kipi.ai⁷ to strengthen its data, analytics and AI capabilities.

The combination of Capgemini and WNS will act as a catalyst to lead in Intelligent Operations providing the required scale and unique set of capabilities from Strategy & Transformation consulting, to horizontal and sector expertise, platform offerings to deep AI and technology capabilities.

This combination will also leverage the significant investments made by Capgemini in AI through training, offers and its 25 strategic partnerships, including Microsoft, Google, AWS, Mistral AI and NVIDIA. The Group’s leadership is recognized by its clients, with over €900 million of Gen AI bookings in 2024, and by market analysts such as Forrester, IDC and ISG.

This transaction will reinforce Capgemini as a business and transformation partner to those enterprises who want to become AI-powered businesses.

Value creation

Based on calendar year 2024 published information, the combined entities would have generated a revenue of €23.3 billion at a 13.6% operating margin⁶ in 2024.

The Group expects accretion to normalized EPS, before synergies from the combination, of 4% in 2026.

Capgemini expects revenue synergies run-rate of €100 million to €140 million by the end of 2027. Costs and operating model synergies are anticipated to reach an annual pretax run-rate of between €50 million and €70 million by the end of 2027.

With the benefits of these synergies, the accretion on normalized earnings per share should reach 7% in 2027.

Smooth integration

WNS and Capgemini have a natural cultural fit and share common values that will facilitate a smooth integration of the teams, helped by the Group’s track record of successful integrations. Furthermore, the integration will be straightforward into Capgemini’s Global Business Services activities.

Key transaction terms and timeline

The contemplated transaction will be implemented by way of a Court-sanctioned scheme of arrangement under the laws of Jersey. The transaction has been unanimously approved by both Capgemini’s and WNS’ Boards of Directors.

The transaction is subject to approval by the Royal Court of Jersey and WNS’ shareholders, as well as to receipt of customary regulatory approvals and other conditions. The closing of the transaction is expected to occur by the end of the year.

Full details of the terms and conditions of the transaction are set out in the transaction agreement, which may be obtained, free of charge, on the SEC’s website (http://www.sec.gov) when available, and WNS’ website at https://www.WNS.com.

Financing

Capgemini has secured a bridge financing of €4.0 billion, covering the purchase of securities ($3.3 billion), as well as the gross debt and similar obligations⁸ of around $0.4 billion and the €0.8 billion Capgemini bond redeemed in June 2025.

The Group plans to refinance the bridge with available cash for around €1.0 billion and the balance by debt issuance.

Q2 and H1 2025 performance

The Group expects Q2 2025 year-on-year growth at constant currency to be slightly better than the -0.4% reported in Q1 2025. The Group also expects for H1 2025 the operating margin to be stable year-on-year at 12.4%.

Due to the nature and timing of this announcement, the actual Q2 and H1 2025 performance may slightly differ from the above-mentioned expectations. H1 2025 publication will take place as planned on July 30, 2025.

Outlook

Capgemini’s financial targets for 2025 do not take into account this transaction and are therefore unchanged:
- Revenue growth of -2.0% to +2.0% at constant currency;
- Operating margin of 13.3% to 13.5%;
- Organic free cash flow of around €1.9 billion.
Conference call

Aiman Ezzat, Chief Executive Officer, accompanied by Nive Bhagat, Chief Financial Officer, will comment on this announcement during two audio webcasts (in English only) to be held today:
- at 8.00 a.m. Paris time (CET)
  - for “listen-only” participants: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/npdpfjyy
    
    for investors and financial analysts who wish to take part in the Q&A session, please pre-register on the following link to receive the dial-in information
- and at 3.00 p.m. Paris time (CET)
  - for “listen-only” participants: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/y5nk6iup
    
    for investors and financial analysts who wish to take part in the Q&A session, please pre-register on the following link to receive the dial-in information
Replays of both calls will be available, from the same links, shortly after the event and for a period of one year.

All documents relating to this publication will be posted on the Capgemini investor website at https://investors.capgemini.com/en/.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

This announcement is for information purposes only and is not intended to and does not constitute or form part of, an offer, invitation or the solicitation of an offer to purchase, otherwise acquire, subscribe for, sell or otherwise dispose of any securities or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law. In connection with the Transaction, WNS will provide to its shareholders and file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) a circular relating to the Transaction (the “scheme document”) and may also file other documents with the SEC.

The scheme document will contain the full terms and conditions of the Transaction, including details with respect to the WNS shareholder vote in respect of the Transaction and will be sent or otherwise disseminated to WNS’ shareholders and will contain important information about the Transaction and related matters. Any decision in respect of, or other response to, the Transaction should be made only on the basis of the information contained in the scheme document.

SHAREHOLDERS OF WNS ARE ADVISED TO READ THE SCHEME DOCUMENT AND OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE, BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE TRANSACTION.

The scheme document and other relevant documents may be obtained, free of charge, on the SEC’s website (http://www.sec.gov), when available. WNS’ shareholders may obtain free copies of the scheme document once it is available from WNS by going to WNS’ website at https://www.wns.com.

PARTICIPANTS IN THE SOLICITATION

Capgemini, WNS and certain of their respective directors and officers may be deemed participants in the solicitation of proxies of WNS’ shareholders in connection with the Transaction. Additional information regarding the foregoing persons, including their direct and indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will be set forth in the scheme document and other relevant documents to be filed with the SEC. WNS’ shareholders and other interested persons may obtain, without charge, more detailed information regarding the directors and officers of WNS in WNS’ periodic reports filed with the SEC available on WNS’ website at https://www.wns.com, and regarding the directors and officers of Capgemini in Capgemini’s most recent Universal Registration Document (Document d’Enregistrement Universel) available on Capgemini’s website (https://www.capgemini.com/us-en/).

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain information in this announcement, as well as oral statements made regarding the Transaction, and other information published by WNS, Capgemini or any member of the Capgemini Group contain statements which are, or may be deemed to be “forward-looking statements”, including, but not limited to, the acceleration of Capgemini and WNS’ growth and the value-additive nature of the Transaction for Capgemini shareholders. The words “anticipates”, “expects”, “believes”, “intends, “estimates”, “plans”, “projects”, “may”, “would”, “will”, “should”, “continue”, or the negative of these terms and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such forward looking statements are prospective in nature and are not based on historical facts, but rather on current expectations and on numerous assumptions regarding the business strategies and the environment in which Capgemini, any member of the Capgemini Group, including WNS and its subsidiaries following the Transaction (“Post-Transaction Group”) shall operate in the future and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by those statements. The forward looking statements contained in this announcement relate to Capgemini, any member of the Capgemini Group or the Post-Transaction Group’s future prospects, developments and business strategies, the expected timing and scope of the Transaction and other statements other than historical facts. For a discussion of some of the risks and important factors that could affect such forward-looking statements, please refer, without limitations, to the risks identified in Capgemini’s most recent Universal Registration Document (Document d’Enregistrement Universel) available on Capgemini’s website (https://www.capgemini.com/us-en/). Factors which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s operations and future prospects include, but are not limited to, the following risks relating to the Transaction, including in respect of the satisfaction of closing conditions to the Transaction on a timely basis or at all, including the ability to obtain required regulatory approvals and the required scheme shareholder approval; unanticipated difficulties and/or expenditures relating to the Transaction and any related financing; uncertainties as to the timing of the Transaction; litigation relating to, or other challenges to, the Transaction; the impact of the Transaction on each company’s business operations (including the threatened or actual loss of employees, clients or suppliers); the inability to obtain, or delays in obtaining cost savings and synergies from the Transaction; incurrence of unexpected costs and expenses in connection with the Transaction; risks related to changes in the financial, equity and debt markets; and risks related to political, economic and market conditions. In addition, the risks to which WNS’ business is subject, including those risks described in WNS’ periodic reports filed with the SEC, could adversely affect the Transaction and, following the completion of the Transaction, the Company’s operations and future prospects. New risks and uncertainties emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for Capgemini and WNS to predict or assess the impact of every factor that may cause actual results to differ from those contained in any forward-looking statements.

Specifically, statements of estimated cost savings and synergies relate to future actions and circumstances which, by their nature involve, risks, uncertainties and contingencies. As a result, the cost savings and synergies referred to may not be achieved, may be achieved later or sooner than estimated, or those achieved could be materially different from those estimated. Due to the scale of the Post-Transaction Group, there may be additional changes to the Post-Transaction Group’s operations. As a result, and given the fact that the changes relate to the future, the resulting cost synergies may be materially greater or less than those estimated.

Forward-looking statements contained herein are only based upon currently available information and speak only as of the date of this announcement, and Capgemini expressly disclaims any obligation to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in Capgemini’s expectations with regard thereto or change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based.

Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results and should not be relied upon for any reason.

The anticipated financial impact of the acquisition of WNS and any references to future financial performance should not be viewed as management guidance. Actual results may differ from the statements set forth herein and such differences may be material.

ABOUT CAPGEMINI

Capgemini is a global business and technology transformation partner, helping organizations to accelerate their dual transition to a digital and sustainable world, while creating tangible impact for enterprises and society. It is a responsible and diverse group of 340,000 team members in more than 50 countries. With its strong over 55-year heritage, Capgemini is trusted by its clients to unlock the value of technology to address the entire breadth of their business needs. It delivers end-to-end services and solutions leveraging strengths from strategy and design to engineering, all fueled by its market leading capabilities in AI, generative AI, cloud and data, combined with its deep industry expertise and partner ecosystem. The Group reported 2024 global revenues of €22.1 billion.

Get the Future You Want | www.capgemini.com

ABOUT WNS

WNS is a digital-led business transformation and services company. WNS combines deep domain expertise with talent, technology, and AI to co-create innovative solutions for over 600 clients across various industries. WNS delivers an entire spectrum of solutions including industry-specific offerings, customer experience services, finance and accounting, human resources, procurement, and research and analytics to re-imagine the digital future of businesses. As of March 31, 2025, WNS had 64,505 professionals across 64 delivery centers worldwide including facilities in Canada, China, Costa Rica, India, Malaysia, the Philippines, Poland, Romania, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

For more information, visit www.wns.com

¹ Volume-weighted average
² Net financial debt of WNS was negligible as at March 31, 2025
³ Clients of WNS based on public domain information
⁴ WNS fiscal year ends March 31. Last 3 fiscal years end March 2025.
⁵ Revenue represents revenue less repair payments
⁶ WNS “Adjusted operating profit” restated to expense amortization of intangible assets (software) above operating margin to conform to Capgemini’s definition of operating margin.
⁷ See https://ir.wns.com/news-releases/news-release-details/wns-acquires-kipiai-expand-data-analytics-ai-capabilities
⁸ Including considerations to be paid in connection with Restricted Share Units

Attachment
- Capgemini_-_2025-07-07_-_Capgemini_to_acquire_WNS_to_create_a_global_leader_in_Intelligent_Operations
The MIL Network –
July 7, 2025
MIL-OSI: Capgemini to acquire WNS to create a global leader in Agentic AI-powered Intelligent Operations
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Media relations:
Victoire Grux
Tel.: +33 6 04 52 16 55
victoire.grux@capgemini.com

Investor relations:
Vincent Biraud
Tel.: +33 1 47 54 50 87
vincent.biraud@capgemini.com

Capgemini to acquire WNS to create a global leader in Agentic AI-powered Intelligent Operations
- Creation of a leader in Intelligent Operations to capture enterprise investment in Agentic AI to transform their end-to-end business processes
- Acquisition of a leading player in Digital BPS (Business Process Services) to combine capabilities and scale to address the strategic opportunity driven by Agentic AI
- Transaction immediately accretive to Capgemini’s revenue growth and operating margin
- Expected accretion to Capgemini’s normalized EPS of 4% before synergies in 2026, and 7% post-synergies in 2027
- Definitive transaction agreement entered into pursuant to which Capgemini will acquire WNS for a cash consideration of 76.50 USD per share
- Transaction unanimously approved by the board of directors of both companies and expected to close by the end of the year
Paris, July 7, 2025 – Capgemini (Euronext Paris: CAP), a global business and technology transformation partner, and WNS (NYSE: WNS), a leading digital-led business transformation and services company, today announced that they have entered into a definitive transaction agreement pursuant to which Capgemini will acquire WNS for a cash consideration of 76.50 USD per WNS share, which represents a premium of 28% to the last 90-day average¹ share price, of 27% to the last 30-day average¹ share price and a premium of 17% to the last closing share price on July 3, 2025. The total cash consideration will amount to $3.3 billion, excluding WNS net financial debt². The transaction will be accretive to Capgemini’s normalized EPS by 4% before synergies in 2026 and 7% post synergies in 2027. The transaction has been unanimously approved by both Capgemini’s and WNS’ Boards of Directors.

“Enterprises are rapidly adopting Generative AI and Agentic AI to transform their operations end-to-end. Business Process Services will be the showcase for Agentic AI. Capgemini’s acquisition of WNS will provide the Group with the scale and vertical sector expertise to capture that rapidly emerging strategic opportunity created by the paradigm shift from traditional BPS to Agentic AI-powered Intelligent Operations,” comments Aiman Ezzat, Chief Executive Officer of Capgemini. “Together we will create a leader in Intelligent Operations, uniquely positioned to support organizations in their AI-powered business process transformation, blending the critical capabilities needed from consulting, technology and platforms to deep process and industry expertise. This will address the client needs for Agentic AI-driven process transformation to deliver efficiency and agility through hyper-automation while achieving superior business outcomes.

WNS brings to the Group its high growth, margin accretive and resilient Digital Business Process Services, which is the springboard to Intelligent Operations, while further increasing our exposure to the US market. Immediate cross-selling opportunities will be unlocked through the integration of our complementary offerings and clients. I am looking forward to welcoming the WNS global team to Capgemini.”

“As a recognized leader in the Digital Business Process Services space, we see the next wave of transformation being driven by intelligent, domain-centric operations that unlock strategic value for our clients. Organizations that have already digitized are now seeking to reimagine their operating models by embedding AI at the core—shifting from automation to autonomy,” said Keshav R. Murugesh, Chief Executive Officer of WNS. “By combining our deep domain and process expertise with Capgemini’s global reach, cutting-edge Gen AI and Agentic AI capabilities, a robust partner ecosystem, and advanced technology platforms, we are creating a powerful proposition that accelerates enterprise reinvention. WNS’ complementary portfolio of horizontal and industry-specific solutions will significantly enhance Capgemini’s rapidly growing Business Services footprint, enabling next-generation, data-driven operations across sectors. Just as importantly, our shared values, cultural alignment, and complementary client relationships ensure a seamless integration—unlocking exciting opportunities for innovation, co-creation, and growth across all stakeholder groups.”

“WNS and Capgemini share a bold, future-focused vision for Intelligent Operations. I’m confident that Capgemini is the ideal partner at the right time in WNS’ journey to extend our capabilities, accelerate innovation, and establish a leadership position in this rapidly evolving market,” said Timothy L. Main, Chairman of WNS Board of Directors. “This marks a pivotal chapter in WNS’ growth—enhancing the resilience and agility of our clients through advanced AI-driven solutions, creating sustained value for our investors, and opening up new avenues for our employees to thrive within a global technology powerhouse.”

WNS, a leader in the resilient high-growth and margin accretive Digital BPS market

WNS is a leading and trusted business transformation and services partner that uniquely blends deep industry knowledge with business process management, technology, analytics and AI expertise to create market differentiation for clients. With digital-led transformation solutions deployed to clients across 8 industries where it deploys its highly automated platforms to deliver stronger business outcomes, WNS is a leader in Digital Business Process Services (BPS). This operating model enables strategic engagements that are critical to clients’ daily operations materialized in long-term contracts with recurring revenues streams. Through an expanded ecosystem of partners and network of delivery centers, WNS serves a large portfolio of blue-chip clients, such as³ United Airlines, Aviva, M&T Bank, Centrica and McCain Foods.

The high-quality business model of WNS, supported by non-linear pricing models and superior profitability has driven a c.+9% constant currency revenue growth on average over the last 3 fiscal years⁴, to reach $1,266 million of revenue⁵ in fiscal year 2025⁴ with an 18.7%⁶ operating margin.

Global organizations are in constant need of strategic partners to support their transformation to enhance efficiency and accelerate growth. This continues to be a key driver of the Digital BPS market and WNS targets revenue growth of +7% to +11% for FY2026.

Immediate unlocking of value

This transaction will position Capgemini as a leader in Digital BPS blending horizontal and vertical process expertise, with a global footprint. With combined revenues of €1.9 billion in 2024 in Digital BPS, this will strengthen Capgemini’s ability to accompany clients on their business and technology transformation journeys.

The mix of WNS and Capgemini’s complementary offerings and clients will immediately unlock cross-selling opportunities. It will also lay down the foundations to build the capabilities to seize the Intelligent Operations strategic market opportunity.

Intelligent Operations – Agentic AI creates a paradigm shift that opens a strategic opportunity

The largest opportunity for global organizations to create value with Gen AI and Agentic AI lies in the fundamental redesign of their operations and business processes. It will attract a significant share of their AI investments as they seek to become AI-powered companies to lead their market. This is creating demand for a new type of business process services: Intelligent Operations.

Intelligent Operations answers these business needs, providing a consulting-led approach to transform and operate horizontal and vertical business processes leveraging Gen AI and Agentic AI. It addresses clients’ goal of efficiency, speed and agility through process hyper-automation, while significantly improving business outcomes by combining data, AI and digital.

AI technologies trigger a paradigm shift in delivering business process services: from labor-intensive services to being consulting-led and tech-driven. In parallel, client focus has shifted from efficiency gains toward end-to-end value creation and business outcomes, opening opportunities to add non-linear revenues (i.e. transaction-based, subscription-based or outcome-based models). This is creating a rapidly growing market opportunity.

Combining the capabilities and scale required to lead in Intelligent Operations

Both Capgemini and WNS are already pioneering Intelligent Operations. Capgemini with its consulting-led end-to-end transformation of processes, advanced AI tools and technology stacks, and BPS platforms, while WNS has developed a set of sector-specific AI-led solutions recently augmented by the acquisition of Kipi.ai⁷ to strengthen its data, analytics and AI capabilities.

The combination of Capgemini and WNS will act as a catalyst to lead in Intelligent Operations providing the required scale and unique set of capabilities from Strategy & Transformation consulting, to horizontal and sector expertise, platform offerings to deep AI and technology capabilities.

This combination will also leverage the significant investments made by Capgemini in AI through training, offers and its 25 strategic partnerships, including Microsoft, Google, AWS, Mistral AI and NVIDIA. The Group’s leadership is recognized by its clients, with over €900 million of Gen AI bookings in 2024, and by market analysts such as Forrester, IDC and ISG.

This transaction will reinforce Capgemini as a business and transformation partner to those enterprises who want to become AI-powered businesses.

Value creation

Based on calendar year 2024 published information, the combined entities would have generated a revenue of €23.3 billion at a 13.6% operating margin⁶ in 2024.

The Group expects accretion to normalized EPS, before synergies from the combination, of 4% in 2026.

Capgemini expects revenue synergies run-rate of €100 million to €140 million by the end of 2027. Costs and operating model synergies are anticipated to reach an annual pretax run-rate of between €50 million and €70 million by the end of 2027.

With the benefits of these synergies, the accretion on normalized earnings per share should reach 7% in 2027.

Smooth integration

WNS and Capgemini have a natural cultural fit and share common values that will facilitate a smooth integration of the teams, helped by the Group’s track record of successful integrations. Furthermore, the integration will be straightforward into Capgemini’s Global Business Services activities.

Key transaction terms and timeline

The contemplated transaction will be implemented by way of a Court-sanctioned scheme of arrangement under the laws of Jersey. The transaction has been unanimously approved by both Capgemini’s and WNS’ Boards of Directors.

The transaction is subject to approval by the Royal Court of Jersey and WNS’ shareholders, as well as to receipt of customary regulatory approvals and other conditions. The closing of the transaction is expected to occur by the end of the year.

Full details of the terms and conditions of the transaction are set out in the transaction agreement, which may be obtained, free of charge, on the SEC’s website (http://www.sec.gov) when available, and WNS’ website at https://www.WNS.com.

Financing

Capgemini has secured a bridge financing of €4.0 billion, covering the purchase of securities ($3.3 billion), as well as the gross debt and similar obligations⁸ of around $0.4 billion and the €0.8 billion Capgemini bond redeemed in June 2025.

The Group plans to refinance the bridge with available cash for around €1.0 billion and the balance by debt issuance.

Q2 and H1 2025 performance

The Group expects Q2 2025 year-on-year growth at constant currency to be slightly better than the -0.4% reported in Q1 2025. The Group also expects for H1 2025 the operating margin to be stable year-on-year at 12.4%.

Due to the nature and timing of this announcement, the actual Q2 and H1 2025 performance may slightly differ from the above-mentioned expectations. H1 2025 publication will take place as planned on July 30, 2025.

Outlook

Capgemini’s financial targets for 2025 do not take into account this transaction and are therefore unchanged:
- Revenue growth of -2.0% to +2.0% at constant currency;
- Operating margin of 13.3% to 13.5%;
- Organic free cash flow of around €1.9 billion.
Conference call

Aiman Ezzat, Chief Executive Officer, accompanied by Nive Bhagat, Chief Financial Officer, will comment on this announcement during two audio webcasts (in English only) to be held today:
- at 8.00 a.m. Paris time (CET)
  - for “listen-only” participants: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/npdpfjyy
    
    for investors and financial analysts who wish to take part in the Q&A session, please pre-register on the following link to receive the dial-in information
- and at 3.00 p.m. Paris time (CET)
  - for “listen-only” participants: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/y5nk6iup
    
    for investors and financial analysts who wish to take part in the Q&A session, please pre-register on the following link to receive the dial-in information
Replays of both calls will be available, from the same links, shortly after the event and for a period of one year.

All documents relating to this publication will be posted on the Capgemini investor website at https://investors.capgemini.com/en/.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

This announcement is for information purposes only and is not intended to and does not constitute or form part of, an offer, invitation or the solicitation of an offer to purchase, otherwise acquire, subscribe for, sell or otherwise dispose of any securities or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law. In connection with the Transaction, WNS will provide to its shareholders and file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) a circular relating to the Transaction (the “scheme document”) and may also file other documents with the SEC.

The scheme document will contain the full terms and conditions of the Transaction, including details with respect to the WNS shareholder vote in respect of the Transaction and will be sent or otherwise disseminated to WNS’ shareholders and will contain important information about the Transaction and related matters. Any decision in respect of, or other response to, the Transaction should be made only on the basis of the information contained in the scheme document.

SHAREHOLDERS OF WNS ARE ADVISED TO READ THE SCHEME DOCUMENT AND OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE, BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE TRANSACTION.

The scheme document and other relevant documents may be obtained, free of charge, on the SEC’s website (http://www.sec.gov), when available. WNS’ shareholders may obtain free copies of the scheme document once it is available from WNS by going to WNS’ website at https://www.wns.com.

PARTICIPANTS IN THE SOLICITATION

Capgemini, WNS and certain of their respective directors and officers may be deemed participants in the solicitation of proxies of WNS’ shareholders in connection with the Transaction. Additional information regarding the foregoing persons, including their direct and indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will be set forth in the scheme document and other relevant documents to be filed with the SEC. WNS’ shareholders and other interested persons may obtain, without charge, more detailed information regarding the directors and officers of WNS in WNS’ periodic reports filed with the SEC available on WNS’ website at https://www.wns.com, and regarding the directors and officers of Capgemini in Capgemini’s most recent Universal Registration Document (Document d’Enregistrement Universel) available on Capgemini’s website (https://www.capgemini.com/us-en/).

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain information in this announcement, as well as oral statements made regarding the Transaction, and other information published by WNS, Capgemini or any member of the Capgemini Group contain statements which are, or may be deemed to be “forward-looking statements”, including, but not limited to, the acceleration of Capgemini and WNS’ growth and the value-additive nature of the Transaction for Capgemini shareholders. The words “anticipates”, “expects”, “believes”, “intends, “estimates”, “plans”, “projects”, “may”, “would”, “will”, “should”, “continue”, or the negative of these terms and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such forward looking statements are prospective in nature and are not based on historical facts, but rather on current expectations and on numerous assumptions regarding the business strategies and the environment in which Capgemini, any member of the Capgemini Group, including WNS and its subsidiaries following the Transaction (“Post-Transaction Group”) shall operate in the future and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by those statements. The forward looking statements contained in this announcement relate to Capgemini, any member of the Capgemini Group or the Post-Transaction Group’s future prospects, developments and business strategies, the expected timing and scope of the Transaction and other statements other than historical facts. For a discussion of some of the risks and important factors that could affect such forward-looking statements, please refer, without limitations, to the risks identified in Capgemini’s most recent Universal Registration Document (Document d’Enregistrement Universel) available on Capgemini’s website (https://www.capgemini.com/us-en/). Factors which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s operations and future prospects include, but are not limited to, the following risks relating to the Transaction, including in respect of the satisfaction of closing conditions to the Transaction on a timely basis or at all, including the ability to obtain required regulatory approvals and the required scheme shareholder approval; unanticipated difficulties and/or expenditures relating to the Transaction and any related financing; uncertainties as to the timing of the Transaction; litigation relating to, or other challenges to, the Transaction; the impact of the Transaction on each company’s business operations (including the threatened or actual loss of employees, clients or suppliers); the inability to obtain, or delays in obtaining cost savings and synergies from the Transaction; incurrence of unexpected costs and expenses in connection with the Transaction; risks related to changes in the financial, equity and debt markets; and risks related to political, economic and market conditions. In addition, the risks to which WNS’ business is subject, including those risks described in WNS’ periodic reports filed with the SEC, could adversely affect the Transaction and, following the completion of the Transaction, the Company’s operations and future prospects. New risks and uncertainties emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for Capgemini and WNS to predict or assess the impact of every factor that may cause actual results to differ from those contained in any forward-looking statements.

Specifically, statements of estimated cost savings and synergies relate to future actions and circumstances which, by their nature involve, risks, uncertainties and contingencies. As a result, the cost savings and synergies referred to may not be achieved, may be achieved later or sooner than estimated, or those achieved could be materially different from those estimated. Due to the scale of the Post-Transaction Group, there may be additional changes to the Post-Transaction Group’s operations. As a result, and given the fact that the changes relate to the future, the resulting cost synergies may be materially greater or less than those estimated.

Forward-looking statements contained herein are only based upon currently available information and speak only as of the date of this announcement, and Capgemini expressly disclaims any obligation to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in Capgemini’s expectations with regard thereto or change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based.

Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results and should not be relied upon for any reason.

The anticipated financial impact of the acquisition of WNS and any references to future financial performance should not be viewed as management guidance. Actual results may differ from the statements set forth herein and such differences may be material.

ABOUT CAPGEMINI

Capgemini is a global business and technology transformation partner, helping organizations to accelerate their dual transition to a digital and sustainable world, while creating tangible impact for enterprises and society. It is a responsible and diverse group of 340,000 team members in more than 50 countries. With its strong over 55-year heritage, Capgemini is trusted by its clients to unlock the value of technology to address the entire breadth of their business needs. It delivers end-to-end services and solutions leveraging strengths from strategy and design to engineering, all fueled by its market leading capabilities in AI, generative AI, cloud and data, combined with its deep industry expertise and partner ecosystem. The Group reported 2024 global revenues of €22.1 billion.

Get the Future You Want | www.capgemini.com

ABOUT WNS

WNS is a digital-led business transformation and services company. WNS combines deep domain expertise with talent, technology, and AI to co-create innovative solutions for over 600 clients across various industries. WNS delivers an entire spectrum of solutions including industry-specific offerings, customer experience services, finance and accounting, human resources, procurement, and research and analytics to re-imagine the digital future of businesses. As of March 31, 2025, WNS had 64,505 professionals across 64 delivery centers worldwide including facilities in Canada, China, Costa Rica, India, Malaysia, the Philippines, Poland, Romania, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

For more information, visit www.wns.com

¹ Volume-weighted average
² Net financial debt of WNS was negligible as at March 31, 2025
³ Clients of WNS based on public domain information
⁴ WNS fiscal year ends March 31. Last 3 fiscal years end March 2025.
⁵ Revenue represents revenue less repair payments
⁶ WNS “Adjusted operating profit” restated to expense amortization of intangible assets (software) above operating margin to conform to Capgemini’s definition of operating margin.
⁷ See https://ir.wns.com/news-releases/news-release-details/wns-acquires-kipiai-expand-data-analytics-ai-capabilities
⁸ Including considerations to be paid in connection with Restricted Share Units

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The MIL Network –
July 7, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Late drama as Real Madrid, PSG storm to Club World Cup semis

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

Real Madrid will face Paris Saint-Germain in the FIFA Club World Cup semifinals after both sides claimed quarterfinal victories on Saturday.

In New Jersey, Real Madrid survived a late scare to secure a 3-2 win over a fast-finishing Borussia Dortmund while Paris Saint-Germain overcame Bayern Munich 2-0 in Atlanta.

Kylian Mbappe (L) of Real Madrid scores with a volley during the quarterfinal match between Real Madrid (Spain) and Borussia Dortmund (Germany) at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 in New Jersey, the United States, July 5, 2025. (Xinhua/Wu Xiaoling)

Fifteen-time UEFA Champions League winners Real Madrid looked to be cruising as they entered second-half stoppage time with a 2-0 lead courtesy of first-half goals from Gonzalo Garcia and Fran Garcia at MetLife Stadium.

Maximilian Beier pulled one back in the 93rd minute before Kylian Mbappe appeared to settle Madrid’s nerves a minute later by volleying home his first goal of the tournament.

But Serhou Guirassy reduced the deficit again by converting from the penalty spot after he was dragged down by Dean Huijsen, an offense that earned the Spain international defender a straight red card.

The Spanish side held on to set up a duel with PSG at the same venue next Wednesday for a place in the final.

“Everything was under control but the last 10 minutes were kind of crazy,” Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso said after the match. “We lost a little bit of our shape, our intensity and luckily we managed to hold on. Overall, it was a good eighty minutes but the last 10 minutes showed we need to improve.”

Alonso hailed the impact of Gonzalo Garcia, who has four goals in five games this tournament, as well as an assist.

“He is doing great work for the team,” the former Spain midfielder said. “He is helping the team and he is running into the right positions in the box. He is a proper No. 9, and we are happy that he is doing that work.”

Borussia Dortmund manager Niko Kovac said his team paid the price for a poor start.

“I don’t think we played well in the first half,” the former Croatia midfielder said. “We were too passive, just waiting and not aggressive enough. It was a bit better after the break.”

He reserved special praise for Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who denied Marcel Sabitzer an equalizer in the final seconds.

“That final save was unbelievable,” Kovac said. “I really thought that shot would go in but this is a world-class goalkeeper. We lost the game in the first half, not the second.”

Earlier, late goals from Desire Doue and Ousmane Dembele gave nine-man Paris Saint-Germain victory over Bayern Munich.

The result was overshadowed by a serious ankle injury suffered by Bayern midfielder Jamal Musiala in a collision with PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma just before halftime.

Doue put the European champions ahead in the 78th minute with a long-range effort that beat goalkeeper Manuel Neuer at his near post.

The Parisian side was then reduced to nine men after Willian Pacho and Lucas Hernandez were both shown straight red cards within 10 minutes.

Despite the double setback, Dembele swept home PSG’s second goal in stoppage time following Achraf Hakimi’s cross.

“It’s always difficult to play against a great team like Bayern Munich,” PSG manager Luis Enrique told a post-match news conference. “And thinking about the last part of the match where we played with one man less and then two, it was very difficult.

“We have to recover and focus on the semifinal. In this very long season, to come here with that attitude that we see from the team in each training session and each game, I think we deserve to be here. I also think our fans deserve to see this. I hope we’ll keep improving and be able to play another final. That’s our goal.”

Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany said the final scoreline did not accurately reflect the match.

“We weren’t rewarded for a performance that was exactly what was required against PSG,” he said. “That’s a shame. I knew it would be a close game. It could’ve finished 1-0 or 2-0 to us or them. That’s how it turned out. It was a game with high intensity and high quality.

“Tomorrow we fly home and have three weeks off. It’s important that the boys can also mentally switch off a bit now. We need to regain our strength for next season.”

Kompany said the club’s thoughts were with Musiala and wished the German international a prompt recovery.

“I’ve rarely been so angry at halftime, not against my players – I know there are much more important things in life, but for these guys it’s their life,” the former Belgium international defender said.

“Someone like Jamal lives for this. He just came back from a setback, and now this happens. You feel powerless. My blood is still boiling right now, not because of the result, that’s football. But because it happened to someone who enjoys the game so much.”

MIL OSI China News –

July 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Serbia completes key section of highway with China’s help

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

LUCANIA /Serbia/, July 6 /Xinhua/ — Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on Saturday attended a ceremony to mark the opening of the last section of the E-763 “Milos Veliki” highway from Pakovrača to Požega.

The opening ceremony took place at the entrance to the Mugnino Brdo tunnel in the municipality of Lucani in southwestern Serbia. It was attended by Chinese Ambassador to Serbia Li Ming, senior Serbian government officials, representatives of Chinese and Serbian infrastructure companies, and hundreds of local residents.

“This is one of the most important infrastructure projects in our country. Together with our Chinese friends, using their technology and our determination, we overcame all the difficulties,” A. Vucic said at the event, noting the contribution of China Communications Construction Group /CCCC/.

The opened 19.56-kilometer section includes two of the longest automobile tunnels in Serbia – Laz /2858 m/ and Muninino Brdo /2861 m/. According to A. Vucic, the project reflects the transformation of Serbia into a strong and modern state with safe and high-quality highways.

Li Ming called the E-763 highway the most important transport artery connecting Belgrade with the Montenegrin port of Bar, as well as with the western and northern regions of Serbia.

The successful completion of the project reflects the experience and dedication of all participants and is evidence of the “iron friendship” between China and Serbia, he added.

Passenger traffic on the new section of the highway will open at noon on Sunday. –0–

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

.

MIL OSI Russia News –

July 6, 2025
Wimbledon: Djokovic hits century to lead veterans into last 16, Krejcikova crashes

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Seven-times champion Novak Djokovic scored his 100th match win at Wimbledon and led the march of the old guard into the last 16 on Saturday while an ailing Barbora Krejcikova’s title defence ended in defeat and tears.

World number one Jannik Sinner was at his ruthless best yet again as the Italian gathered momentum in his quest for a maiden All England Club title while American Ben Shelton and Australian Alex de Minaur announced themselves as dark horses.

Djokovic is on an altogether different plane as he looks to capture his eighth title to match Roger Federer’s record on the pristine lawns of London and his 25th major overall to surpass Margaret Court on the all-time list of champions.

The 38-year-old showed exactly why Wimbledon could be his best chance of achieving the elusive targets when the 2023 and 2024 runner-up dismantled Davis Cup teammate Miomir Kecmanovic 6-3 6-0 6-4 in a little under two hours.

A ton of victories put him among elite company as the sixth seed became only the third player to achieve that feat at the tournament after nine-times champion Martina Navratilova and Swiss great Federer.

“Wimbledon is a favourite and a dream tournament for not just myself, but probably the majority of players. Growing up, most of the kids dream of playing here and winning here,” Djokovic said.

“I’ve been blessed to do it multiple times. Any history that I make in my favourite tournament, I’m blessed.”

Grigor Dimitrov, the Bulgarian 34-year-old, also scored his 100th match win across the four Grand Slams when he quelled the challenge of Austrian Sebastian Ofner 6-3 6-4 7-6(0).

Joining him was fellow veteran Marin Cilic, the Croatian 36-year-old getting past spirited Spaniard Jaume Munar 6-3 3-6 6-2 6-4 to book a meeting with Italian 22nd seed Flavio Cobolli who took apart big-serving Czech teenager Jakub Mensik 6-2 6-4 6-2.

While Cobolli may not be relishing a meeting with the tricky Cilic, his compatriot Sinner will welcome the chance to test his metronomic hitting against Dimitrov’s elegant approach in what promises to be a classic.

SUBLIME SINNER

A sublime Sinner booked that clash with a 6-1 6-3 6-1 hammering of Pedro Martinez. The top seed, who has lost just 17 games in his first three matches, equalled the professional era record for fewest games dropped to make the Wimbledon fourth round along the way.

“About the games lost, this is whatever,” Sinner said, his grounded nature coming into sharp focus.

“I’m not looking on these kind of records. I know everything can change very quickly from one round to the other.”

After the unexpected high of last year’s title triumph, Krejcikova came crashing down when she was beaten 2-6 6-3 6-4 by American 10th seed Emma Navarro in a disjointed Court One contest.

The distressed 29-year-old Czech, who has endured her share of injuries this season, was in tears as she prepared to serve to stay in the tournament at 3-5 in the deciding set before eventually crashing out.

“It was tough, neither of us played our best tennis, she was dealing with some injuries and I was dealing with whatever I was dealing with,” Navarro said, adding that it was difficult to focus when her opponent was struggling.

“It’s not easy to be composed. Part of you is saying just put a bunch of balls in the court and that’s all you need to do. But then you trick yourself into not playing the way that you want to play.”

Krejcikova’s exit and 2022 champion Elena Rybakina’s 7-6(6) 6-3 defeat by Danish powerhouse Clara Tauson means a first-time women’s champion will be crowned at the Grand Slam for the eighth consecutive year.

Iga Swiatek will hope she can be the one after the five-times major champion secured a 6-2 6-3 victory over American Danielle Collins, whose compatriot Hailey Baptiste crashed to 18-year-old Russian Mirra Andreeva 6-1 6-3.

Shelton gave Americans something to smile about when the powerful left-hander made quick work of Hungarian lucky loser Marton Fucsovics 6-3 7-6(4) 6-2 while De Minaur swatted aside Dane August Holmgren 6-4 7-6(5) 6-3 to go through.

(Reuters)

July 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: The government has approved a decree on holding the International Junior Science Olympiad in Russia

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Order dated July 1, 2025 No. 1768-r

Document

Order dated July 1, 2025 No. 1768-r

The 22nd International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO 2025) will be held in Russia from November 23 to December 2. The order to this effect has been signed.

The federal territory of Sirius will be the venue for the Olympiad. By July 16, the Ministry of Education must approve the composition of the organizing committee for its preparation and holding, as well as the plan of relevant events.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will provide visas to participants and guests of the event, as well as journalists, without charging fees.

IJSO is an international multidisciplinary Olympiad for schoolchildren under 15 years old. The students are required to have both theoretical knowledge and experimental skills in 3 subjects: physics, chemistry and biology.

The Olympiad has been held annually in December since 2004. In previous years, IJSO was held in Germany, the Netherlands, Romania, Azerbaijan, the UAE, Indonesia, Thailand, Taiwan, South Korea, India, Iran, South Africa, Qatar, Argentina, Brazil, Columbia, Nigeria, and Botswana. Teams from over 70 countries participate in it.

The Russian team has been participating in competitions since the very first Olympiad and is considered one of the strongest – traditionally, Russian schoolchildren bring home several gold medals from tournaments.

The preparation and holding of the Olympiad in Russia will be ensured within the framework of the implementation of the events of the federal project “All the Best for Children”, which is part of the new national project “Youth and Children”.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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MIL OSI Russia News –

July 6, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: The 2024–2025 World Heritage Map is now published

Source: UNESCO World Heritage Centre

The latest edition of the World Heritage Map is now available to order! This new design, poster-sized wall map features all 1,223 World Heritage properties, illustrated with stunning photographs from across the globe.

This map offers a visual journey through the richness of World Heritage sites, the various countries where they are located and key data.

The featured image on this year’s map presents the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak, a World Heritage site in Bulgaria. Recognized as a masterpiece of Thracian creative genius, the tomb is renowned for its remarkably well-preserved Hellenistic frescoes, reflecting the sophistication of Thracian culture and funerary art.

Produced by the World Heritage Centre and Geo4Map, with the support of Bulgaria, the map can now be ordered from the World Heritage Centre website.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Podgorica Forum Promotes Trade and Technological Cooperation between China and Montenegro

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

PODGORICA, July 5 (Xinhua) — More than 100 government officials and business representatives gathered here on Friday at the Podgorica Forum to explore opportunities for trade and technology cooperation between Montenegro and China.

Speaking at the event, State Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Economy of Montenegro Krsto Radjenovic emphasized the enormous potential for agricultural cooperation between the two countries.

He expressed hope for the introduction of advanced Chinese technologies into agricultural production and food industry, as well as support in the creation of modern irrigation and water management systems.

The Montenegrin minister also welcomed joint investments with Chinese partners, which will help bring more Montenegrin agricultural products to the Chinese market.

Chargé d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Montenegro Lu Fangqing noted that China views Montenegro as an important partner in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE).

She pointed to significant achievements in the Belt and Road Initiative and cooperation between China and CEE countries, especially in the fields of transport infrastructure and green energy, and expressed optimism about future bilateral cooperation.

The forum concluded with a B2B session, where Chinese and Montenegrin enterprises held in-depth discussions and reached a number of preliminary cooperation agreements. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: ‘We are the present’: Tajik climate activist urges leaders to include youth voices in dialogue

Source: United Nations MIL OSI

At the end of April, Fariza Dzhobirova attended a Model United Nations Conference on Glaciers’ Preservation in Tajikistan’s capital, Dushanbe, where she represented Switzerland.

For Ms. Dzhobirova, it was a rehearsal of sorts for the actual High-level Conference on Glaciers’ Preservation which began on Thursday in Dushanbe. There, she will serve as a panel member representing her own country.

“The [Model UN] conference gave me a platform to raise my voice, collaborate with like-minded peers from across the region and develop policy recommendations that we hope will influence real-world decisions,” she said.

The High-level Conference on Glaciers’ Preservation, hosted by the Government of Tajikistan and supported by a variety of United Nations agencies, will work to underline the extreme urgency of melting glaciers, elevating it as a global climate and development challenge.

Will glaciers survive the 21st century?

Glaciers, alongside ice sheets, account for over 70 per cent of the world’s freshwater resources and are integral to many local economies, providing water, sustaining agriculture and generating energy.

However, due to the increasing temperature of the planet, glaciers are melting at unprecedented rates – scientists predict that if the current rate of melting continues, many glaciers will not survive the 21^st century.

In Tajikistan alone, 30 per cent of glaciers have disappeared over the last century, disrupting local and national water supplies and agricultural patterns. And Slovenia and Venezuela have lost all their glaciers.

Just yesterday, one day before the conference was set to begin, a partial glacier collapse in Switzerland buried most of a small village, according to news reports.

“The death of a glacier is more than just the loss of ice,” said World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Secretary-General Celeste Saulo.

Youth voices are the present and the future

Before the conference, Parviz Boboev from the UN Country Team in Tajikistan sat down with Ms. Dzhobirova to discuss what motivates her climate activism.

Photo by UN Tajikistan

Fariza Dzhobirova, a young climate activist from Tajikistan, represents Switzerland at a Model United Nations conference on glacier preservation.

Parviz Boboev: What inspired you to get involved in the climate movement?

Fariza Dzhobirova: Growing up in Tajikistan, where more than 90% of our freshwater comes from glaciers, I’ve seen how climate change is already impacting people’s lives. Rivers are shrinking, water is becoming less accessible, and natural disasters like landslides and floods are affecting more and more communities.

I’ve met a family who lost their home because of mudflow. I saw a teenage girl from that family of the same age as me that had totally different problems because of this climate-related disaster. I was thinking about my classes. She was thinking about how to survive.

My message is that young people are not just the future — we are the present, and we are ready to contribute today

And I know there are many examples similar to this – farmers whose land can no longer be irrigated and children whose futures are at risk. Seeing this pain and injustice made it impossible for me to stay silent or uninvolved.

Participating in the upcoming Glaciers’ Preservation conference means a lot to me. It’s about raising the voices of people who are often left out of global discussions. For me, it’s a chance to speak on behalf of my generation and my country, and to show that young people are ready to be part of the solution.

Parviz Boboev: What message do you hope to share at the conference about the impact of climate change on your community and generation?

Fariza Dzhobirova: Being invited to speak is a great responsibility for me. It’s a chance to represent not only Tajikistan, but the voice of a generation.

My message is that young people are not just the future — we are the present, and we are ready to contribute today. Climate change is not only about the environment — it’s about how we live, how we work, how we learn. It affects our opportunities, our mental health, our ability to plan for the future. And yet, many young people are still excluded from decision-making processes.

At the conference, I want to encourage leaders and policymakers to truly listen not just to the facts and data, but to the experiences and hopes of young people. When you give youth a platform, you don’t just invest in their potential — you strengthen the resilience and sustainability of entire communities.

Parviz Boboev: Youth voices are becoming increasingly important in global climate conversations. How do you see the role of young people in shaping solutions?

Fariza Dzhobirova: I truly believe that young people have a unique role to play in shaping more just, inclusive and forward-looking climate solutions. We bring fresh ideas, the courage to question outdated systems and a strong sense of responsibility for the future.

In countries like Tajikistan, where glaciers are directly connected to people’s livelihoods, youth are already stepping up. What we need now is more trust and investment in young people. We don’t expect to solve everything alone, but we do hope to be included — in dialogue, in decision-making, and in designing real solutions.

Protecting glaciers and water resources is not just a technical challenge; it’s a human one. By working together — across generations and borders — we can make our region stronger, more resilient, and more united in the face of climate change.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Public health champions honoured for work ‘beyond the call of normal duty’

Source: United Nations MIL OSI

But this is not universal. Many people worldwide struggle – unable to walk into clinics or explain their symptoms: “[These patients] do not line up on waiting lists. They wait, unknowingly, for inside understanding and the courage to seek care,” said Dr. Merete Nordentoft of Denmark, describing the patients with whom she has worked most closely.

Dr. Nordentoft was one of six public health champions to receive an award on Friday for “outstanding, innovative work in health development”, at the 78^th World Health Assembly.

Each was honoured for their contributions to treating underserved communities and advancing the goal of healthcare for all.

“We celebrate the lifelong commitment and the relentless work accomplished by our very own health professionals across member states from every region of the world with one common goal – health for all,” President Teodoro Herbosa who presided over the awards ceremony.

Reaching vulnerable communities

Dr. Nordentoft received the Sasakawa Health Prize for her work on suicide prevention and with young patients undergoing their first psychotic episode. She was the first to receive this prize for mental health work, and emphasized the importance of early interventions which prioritize community-based care.

“With the right support, early enough, recovery is not only possible – it is likely,” Dr. Nordentoft said of her patients.

Many of the other award recipients have also spent their careers focused on healthcare policies and treatments which foreground integrated, community-based care.

The principles for which Nelson Mandela fought urge us to pursue a policy of cooperation and partnership in sharing knowledge, science and resources – Dr. Majed Zemni

Professor Huali Wang of China and the Geriatric Healthcare Directorate of Kuwait were both awarded the Sheikh Al-Sabah Prize which honours research and policy done to support and advance healthy ageing.

Professor Wang was recognised in part for her work to integrate professional and family support networks for older adults with dementia. She dedicated her award to these families and everyone living with the complex illness.

The Kuwaiti Directorate was also honoured for the way in which they promoted high-quality, integrated care for older adults which “[preserves] the dignity, the rights and [recognises] the invaluable experiences of older persons.”

Dr. Jožica Maučec Zakotnik from Slovenia, who received the United Arab Emirates Foundation Prize, has also worked tirelessly to increase healthcare access and co-developed a new type of free-of-charge health care promotion centre scheme.

“Growing up in a less developed region in Slovenia, I set myself a task that the most disadvantaged communities would be given greater attention,” she said.

‘Force quit button’

Some of the awardees acknowledged that they were receiving these highly coveted awards during a time when global health is facing unprecedented challenges, specifically financial.

The proposed budget before the 78th World Health Assembly has been reduced by over $1.1 billion due to currently projected funding cuts.

“The global health world has just been hit with a ‘force quit’ button and we have been pushed to stop some of the things we really want to do,” said Dr. Helen Rees of South Africa, recipient of the Dr. Lee Jong-wook Memorial Prize for her work in HIV prevention and community-based health services.

Dr. Majed Zemni of Tunisia received the Nelson Mandela Award for his patient-centred work in forensic medicine and in promoting the integration of medical ethics into policy. In his remarks, he noted the global civil rights icon’s legacy in also fighting for health policies.

“The principles for which Nelson Mandela fought urge us to pursue a policy of cooperation and partnership in sharing knowledge, science and resources,” Dr. Zemni said.

Continuing the work

Dr. Rees also emphasized the importance of seizing this moment to reimagine global public health and uphold its sustainability.

“What we need now is action. We need good science and evidence-based policies so we can address the needs of all people, including the most vulnerable,” she said.

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, World Health Organization (WHO) Director General, also urged all of the recipients to continue their work towards a healthier and fairer world.

“At a time when the world faces many challenges, each of you is an inspiration and a reminder of the progress that can be made to improve health and well-being for all.”

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Security Council urged to stand firm as Bosnia and Herzegovina faces deepening crisis

Source: United Nations 2-b

High Representative Christian Schmidt briefed on latest developments surrounding implementation of the 1995 General Framework Agreement for Peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which ended more than three years of bloodshed and genocide following the breakup of the former Yugoslavia.

The accord, also known as the Dayton Peace Agreement, established a new constitution and created two entities within the country: the mainly Bosniak and Croat Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the ethnically Serb Republika Srpska.

Constitutional order under attack

Mr. Schmidt – whose key role is overseeing implementation of the 1995 agreement – said conditions for the full implementation of the civilian aspects of the deal have vastly deteriorated.

“The first quarter of this year was marked by a significant rise of tensions, which without question amounts to an extraordinary crisis in the country since the signing of the Dayton Agreement,” he said.

“I may underline that I see a political crisis. I do not yet have indications for a security crisis.”

The sudden deterioration stems from reactions following the 26 February conviction of Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik for failing to enforce the decisions of the High Representative.

He was sentenced to one year in prison and banned from political office for six years but has appealed the decision.

“After the verdict, Mr. Dodik intensified his attacks on the constitutional order of the country by directing the authorities of the Republika Srpska to adopt legislation that effectively bans State-level judiciary and State-level law enforcement in the Republika Srpska and by even putting on the table a draft Entity constitution, hinting at de facto secession,” said Mr. Schmidt.

He told the Council that given the speed with which the draft laws and constitution were made public strongly suggests that they had been prepared well in advance.

UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

Christian Schmidt, High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina, briefs members of the UN Security Council on the situation in the country.

Fears of disintegration

He said these acts and legislation fundamentally contradict the implementation of the Dayton Accords and “endanger the territorial and societal integrity of the country and of its peoples by performing secessionist acts.”

Furthermore, “they also create legal and executive insecurity by establishing Entity laws and institutions that contradict and compete with State law and competence.”

He stressed that “it will require institutions created in Dayton, such as the Constitutional Court, to prevent this country from falling apart, and when it comes to safeguarding the functionality of the State, my legal competencies as High Representative as well.”

As a result, the State-level coalition has been seriously affected, momentum towards European Union (EU) accession has stalled and the functionality of the State is being undermined, while reforms have been sidelined.

“This development is not irreversible, but it is severe,” he warned. “It needs to be addressed without delay, it requires active engagement by the international community.”

Communities shun extremism

The High Representative noted that the Serb community “did not pay heed to Mr. Dodik’s unlawful directives.” For example, although ethnic Serbs working in State-level institutions have been pressured to abandon their posts, “these calls and threats have been left overwhelmingly unanswered.”

Meanwhile, the Bosniak community “has been able to remain calm despite the tensions and to continue on the path of patient dialogue also in order to keep the country’s European integration on the table.”

He also noticed “a continuing pro-European commitment” on the part of the Croat community, “as well as an increased willingness to engage in inter-ethnic dialogue, including in local disputes.”

Mr. Schmidt was adamant that the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina can and do live together.

“For the most part, the communities in the country do not support extremism or secessionism,” he said. “There is ample evidence for that in daily life, but ethnocentric politics spends too much time on dividing the communities rather than uniting them.”

Peace accord remains crucial

While the country is facing complex and varied challenges, he said the current extraordinary crisis is the result of severe attacks against the Dayton Agreement “encompassing the constitutional and legal order” and has nothing to do with the peace deal itself.

“Bosnia and Herzegovina is facing difficult times. Nobody would have expected 30 years ago that the international community is needed as much today as it is,” he said.

“But the Peace Agreement that this UN Security Council endorsed 30 years ago remains the very foundation on which the future of Bosnia and Herzegovina with its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence can be built.”

Although reopening or redefining Dayton challenges the basis for peace and prosperity in the country, “this does not mean we should not talk about necessary amendments and adoptions of this constitution,” he said.

Attacks threaten ‘very foundation’

“The way forward includes countering threats and attacks to its very foundation, but also implementing meaningful reforms, including in the context of the country’s European integration,” he continued.

“It is about strengthening institutional stability and functionality of the State and continuing to reinforce election integrity in view of the country’s general elections in 2026.”

Mr. Schmidt concluded his remarks by urging the international community to continue to support and assist the country and the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina to shape their future and to reassure the population that they have not been forgotten.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Health, education, opportunity at stake, amid stubborn digital gender divide

Source: United Nations 4

Closing this gap is not optional. There were 189 million fewer women than men online in 2024.

The disparity is about more than access, it reflects deeper systemic barriers, according to Doreen Bogdan-Martin who heads the UN telecommunications agency, ITU.

“That’s too many missed opportunities to learn, to earn and to shape our shared digital future,” she said in a message for Thursday’s International Girls in ICT Day.

She underscored that connectivity alone is not enough to ensure true digital transformation.

“It must be meaningful – being able to afford digital devices and services, having the skills to use technology and feeling safe in online spaces. Everyone deserves the chance to thrive in an increasingly digital world.”

[embedded content]

ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin’s video message.

2025 Theme

Celebrated annually on the fourth Thursday of April, Girls in ICT Day encourages girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Since its launch in 2011, more than 417,000 girls and young women have participated in over 11,500 celebrations across 175 countries.

This year’s theme is Girls in ICT for inclusive digital transformation. The ITU is calling for more investment in girls’ digital education and expansion of access to technology.

More young women need to become creators – not just consumers in the digital world, the agency argues.

“Whether you are an entrepreneur, launching an AI startup, a teacher incorporating digital skills into your classroom or a policymaker shaping our shared digital future, you can help ensure every woman and girl has the chance to connect, create and lead in digital spaces,” Ms. Bogdan-Martin emphasised.

A participant at a UN-supported training on STEM for girls and young women.

Global observance

The 2025 global observance will be co-hosted this year by the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) in Eurasia together with States from the Arab region, featuring a live-streamed hybrid event linking Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan and Nouakchott, Mauritania.

The programme includes an intergenerational dialogue bringing together girls, women leaders, and ICT experts to discuss practical strategies for closing the gender gap.

Events are also being organized worldwide, including Girls in ICT in Solomon Islands in the Pacific, the Melon Girls Club in North Macedonia and STEM Supergirls in Croatia.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: New judge elected to the International Court of Justice

Source: United Nations MIL OSI

Mahmoud Daifallah Hmoud was appointed following a parallel and independent voting process in the General Assembly and Security Council, conducted by secret ballot.

He will fill the vacancy left by former ICJ President Nawaf Salam of Lebanon, who resigned in January to become the country’s Prime Minister.

He will hold office for the remainder of Judge Salam’s term, which was set to end on 5 February 2027.

Absolute majority

Mr. Hmoud was the sole person vying for the slot and he was nominated by Egypt, Jordan, Romania, Slovakia and Sweden.

Candidates must secure an absolute majority in both the General Assembly and the Security Council, or 97 and eight votes respectively.

All 15 Council members voted in his favour while in the General Assembly, which comprises all 193 UN Member States, he received the support of 178 out of 181 countries who took part in the vote. Three countries abstained.

Mr. Hmoud has been Jordan’s Ambassador to the UN in New York since September 2021 and his other postings include Legal Adviser and Director of the Legal Department in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

He is also a former chairman and member of the International Law Commission, a UN expert body that promotes the development and codification of international law.

The towers and gables of the Peace Palace, home of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague.

The ‘world court’

The ICJ, informally known as the “world court”, settles legal disputes between UN Member States and gives advisory opinions on legal questions that have been referred to it by UN organs and agencies.

It has been in the spotlight following an advisory opinion, issued last July, which said that Israel’s occupation of the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, “is unlawful.”

Last month, hearings began on Israel’s continuing restrictions on the work of UN and other international agencies operating in Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories (OPT).

The Court is composed of 15 judges who serve nine-year terms. Five seats come up for election every three years and there is no bar on consecutive terms.

Judges are chosen on the basis of their qualifications, not their nationality; however, no two judges can be from the same country.

The ICJ was established in June 1945 and is based at the Peace Palace in The Hague, a city in the Netherlands.

It is one of the six main organs of the UN – alongside the General Assembly, the Security Council, the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the Trusteeship Council, and the Secretariat – and is the only one not based in New York.

Find out more about the ICJ and its role in global peace and security here.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: US decision to sanction ICC judges ‘deeply corrosive’ to justice: UN rights chief

Source: United Nations MIL OSI

Mr. Türk was responding to an announcement by Marco Rubio, the US Secretary of State, on Thursday, of measures targeting the judges, who are overseeing a 2020 case of alleged war crime committed in Afghanistan by US and Afghan military forces, and the 2024 ICC arrest warrants issued against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant, the former Defence Minister.

“I am profoundly disturbed by the decision of the Government of the United States of America to sanction judges of the International Criminal Court – specifically four women judges, from Benin, Peru, Slovenia and Uganda – who had been part of rulings in the situations in Afghanistan or in the State of Palestine,” said Türk, who called for the prompt reconsideration and withdrawal of the measures.

UN Photo/Evan Schneider

Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, briefs a General Assembly informal meeting on missing persons.

The sanctions, the statement continues, attack the judges for performing their judicial functions, an act which, he said, runs “directly counter to respect for the rule of law and the equal protection of the law – values for which the U.S. has long stood.”

The statement by Mr. Türk follows the ICC’s strongly worded press release on Thursday, describing the sanctions as “a clear attempt to undermine the independence of an international judicial institution which operates under the mandate from 125 States Parties from all corners of the globe.”

The ICC reinforced its position on Friday with a release from the Assembly of State Parties –the management oversight and legislative body of the court – rejecting the US sanctions which, it declared, “risk undermining global efforts to ensure accountability for the gravest crimes of concern to the international community and erode the shared commitment to the rule of law, the fight against impunity, and the preservation of a rules-based international order.”

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: World News in Brief: ‘Indifference and impunity’ in Sudan, ICC judges speak out against sanctions, respiratory diseases overlooked in Europe

Source: United Nations MIL OSI

Tom Fletcher noted that over 30 million people require humanitarian assistance. Moreover, with famine declared in multiple places and over 14.6 million people displaced, Sudan represents the largest humanitarian crisis in the world.

“Again and again, the international community has said that we will protect the people of Sudan. The people of Sudan should ask us if, when and how we will start to deliver on that promise,” the relief chief said.

When will the international community fully fund aid efforts in Sudan?

When will accountability for the violence in Sudan happen?

He called on the international community to stop acting with ‘indifference and impunity’ towards Sudan,

Health system ‘smashed to pieces’

Since the conflict in Sudan broke out in April 2022, civilian infrastructure across the country has been damaged or destroyed, including health facilities and water and sanitation systems.

The health system in particular has been “smashed to pieces,” according to Mr. Fletcher, leading to increasingly dire measles and cholera outbreaks.

The cholera outbreak, which began in July 2024 and is now confirmed in 13 of Sudan’s 18 states, has infected more than 74,000 people in total and killed 1,826.

“I have seen first-hand the devastation caused by the cholera outbreak in Khartoum, where the health system has been devastated by conflict and is struggling to cope with the tremendous demand on health facilities,” said Dr. Shible Sahbni, WHO representative in Sudan.

The World Health Organization (WHO), in partnership with the Sudanese Ministry of Health, is launching a 10-day cholera vaccination campaign in Khartoum State.

The campaign will aim to reach 2.6 million people in an effort to contain the cholera outbreak in the state.

“The vaccines will help stop cholera in its tracks as we strengthen other response interventions,” said Dr. Sahbni.

ICC judges express support for colleagues sanctioned by US

Judges at the International Criminal Court (ICC) expressed solidarity with their colleagues who have recently been sanctioned by the United States Government, describing the move as “coercive measures aimed at undermining the independence of the judiciary.”

“The Judges stand united and will continue to exercise their functions independently, impartially and conscientiously, fulfilling the demands of the rule of law,” they said in a statement on Thursday.

The US announced sanctions on 6 June against four judges from Benin, Peru, Slovenia and Uganda. The justices are currently overseeing a 2020 case which alleges war crimes in Afghanistan committed by the US and Afghan armies and the 2024 ICC arrest warrants issued for sitting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant.

The International Court of Justice

The UN Human Rights Chief Volter Türk previously said that he was “deeply disturbed” by these sanctions, arguing that they corroded international governance and justice.

No improper influence

The ICC is an independent judicial body established under the Rome Statute, adopted in 1998. Although not part of the United Nations, the ICC works closely with it under a cooperative framework.

In the statement, the Judges said that they decide, and will continue to decide, cases based on facts and without regard to threats, restrictions or improper influence issued “from any quarter or for any reason.”

“The Judges reaffirm that they are equal in the performance of their functions and that they will always uphold the principle of equality before the law.”

Over 80 Million Europeans suffering from overlooked chronic respiratory diseases

Chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma are vastly underestimated, underdiagnosed and poorly managed in Europe – affecting 80 million people and costing $21 billion a year, the UN World Health Organization (WHO) said on Thursday.

A new report by WHO Europe and the European Respiratory Society highlights how smoking and air pollution are driving the growing crisis.

“We take 22,000 breaths a day, yet respiratory health remains one of the most neglected areas in global health,” said Professor Silke Ryan, President of the European Respiratory Society.

6^th leading cause of death

Data analysis shows that chronic respiratory illnesses are the sixth leading cause of death in Europe. They are often misdiagnosed owing to weak diagnostic systems, limited training and inadequate health data.

Although effective treatments are available, asthma-related deaths remain high among young people, while chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is responsible for eight in 10 respiratory disease deaths.

As preparations begin for the 2025 UN High-Level Meeting on non-communicable diseases, WHO Europe urged governments to prioritize chronic respiratory disease, set measurable targets and tackle root causes like tobacco and air pollution.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: United States, Ukraine among new members elected to UN Economic and Social Council

Source: United Nations MIL OSI

Croatia, Russia and Ukraine secured seats from the Eastern European regional group, which had three available seats. Russia was elected in a run-off against Belarus, as both nations failed to secure the required two-thirds majority in the first round of voting. North Macedonia, the fifth candidate from the group, did not meet the two-thirds threshold and did not advance.

Germany and the United States were also elected in a by-election to replace Liechtenstein and Italy, which relinquished their seats. Their terms will run through 2026 and 2027, respectively.

Other countries elected to ECOSOC – for three year terms – include Australia, Burundi, Chad, China, Ecuador, Finland, India, Lebanon, Mozambique, Norway, Peru, Sierra Leone, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Türkiye, and Turkmenistan.

The terms of all new members will begin on 1 January 2026.

Vote tally

ECOSOC membership is allocated based on equitable geographical representation across five regional groups: African States, Asia-Pacific States, Eastern European States, Latin American and Caribbean States, and Western European and other States.

A total of 189 Member States participated in the first round of balloting, and 187 in the runoff. A two-thirds majority of valid votes cast was required for election; abstentions and invalid ballots were not counted in the total.

A – African States (four seats) required majority 126
Mozambique: 186
Sierra Leone: 186
Burundi: 184
Chad: 183

B – Asia-Pacific States (four seats) required majority 125
Lebanon: 183
Turkmenistan: 183
India: 181
China: 180

C – Eastern European States (three seats)
First round – required majority 123
Croatia: 146
Ukraine: 130
Russia: 108
Belarus: 96
North Macedonia: 59

Second round runoff – required majority 108
Russia: 115
Belarus: 46

D – Latin American and Caribbean States (three seats) required majority 125
Ecuador: 182
Peru: 182
Saint Kitts and Nevis: 180

E – Western European and other States (four seats) required majority 120
Türkiye: 174
Finland: 173
Australia: 172
Norway: 169
Andorra: 1

By-elections (two seats, independent elections) required majority 114
Germany: 171
United States: 170
Andorra: 1

The Economic and Social Council

ECOSOC is one of the six main organs of the United Nations and consists of 54 Member States elected for overlapping three-year terms. It plays a central role in advancing the international development agenda and fostering international cooperation across economic, social, and environmental spheres.

The General Assembly, comprising all 193 UN Member States, elects ECOSOC members annually by secret ballot.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Analysis: Why Israel and the U.S. are sure to encounter the limits of air power in Iran
Source: The Conversation – Canada – By James Horncastle, Assistant Professor and Edward and Emily McWhinney Professor in International Relations, Simon Fraser University

The United States has apparently answered Israel’s call to to become involved in the war between Israel and Iran.

President Donald Trump had signalled a willingness for the U.S. to become involved in the conflict. He went so far, in fact, to suggest in social media posts that he could kill Iran’s supreme leader if he wanted to.

Segment on Trump’s threats against Iran’s leader. (BBC News)

The American military can certainly make an impact in any air campaign against Iran. The problem from a military standpoint, however, is that the U.S., based on its forces’ deployment, will almost certainly seek to keep its involvement limited to its air force to avoid another Iraq-like quagmire.

While doing so could almost certainly disrupt Iran’s nuclear program, it will likely fall short of Israel’s goal of regime change.

In fact, it could reinforce the Iranian government and draw the U.S. into a costly ground war.

Read more:
Why is there so much concern over Iran’s nuclear program? And where could it go from here?

Israel’s need for American support

The initial stated reason for Israel’s bombing campaign — Iran’s nuclear capabilities — appears specious at best.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has argued several times in the past, without evidence, that Iran is close to achieving a nuclear weapon. U.S. intelligence, however, have assessed that Iran is three years away from deploying a nuclear weapon.

Regardless of the veracity of the claims, Israel initiated the offensive and requires American support.

Israel’s need for U.S. assistance rests on two circumstances:
1. While Israel succeeded in eliminating key figures from the Iranian military in its initial strikes, Iran’s response appears to have exceeded Israel’s expectations with their Arrow missile interceptors nearing depletion.
2. Israel’s air strikes can only achieve so much in disrupting Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Most analysts note that Israel’s bombings are only likely to delay the Iranian nuclear program by a few months. This is due to the fact that Israeli missiles are incapable of penetrating the Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant, which estimates place close to 300 feet underground.
The United States, however, possesses munitions that have reportedly destroyed the Fordow facility. Most notably, the GBU-57A/B Massive Ordnance Penetrator (more commonly known as a bunker buster) has a penetration capability of 200 feet and was reportedly used in the attack.

Romanticizing air power

Nonetheless, the efficacy of air power has been vastly overrated in the popular media and various air forces of the world. Air power is great at disrupting an opponent, but has significant limitations in influencing the outcome of a war.

Specifically, air power is likely to prove an inadequate tool for one of the supposed Israeli and American objectives in the war: regime change. For air power to be effective at bringing about regime change, it needs to demoralize the Iranian people to the point that they’re willing to oppose their own government.

Early air enthusiasts believed that a population’s demoralization would be an inevitable consequence of aerial bombardment. Italian general Giulio Douhet, a prominent air power theorist, argued that air power was so mighty that it could destroy cities and demoralize an opponent into surrendering.

Douhet was correct on the first point. He was wrong on the second.

Recent history provides evidence. While considerable ink has been spilled to demonstrate the efficacy of air power during the Second World War, close examination of the facts demonstrate that it had a minimal impact. In fact, Allied bombing of German cities in several instances created the opposite effect.

More recent bombing campaigns replicated this failure. The U.S. bombing of North Vietnam during the Vietnam War did not significantly damage North Vietnamese morale or war effort. NATO’s bombing of Serbia in 1999, likewise, rallied support for the unpopular Slobodan Milosevic due to its perceived injustice — and continues to evoke strong emotions to this day.

Iran’s political regime may be unpopular with many Iranians, but Israeli and American bombing may shore up support for the Iranian government.

Nationalism is a potent force, particularly when people are under attack. The attacks on Iran will rally segments of the population to the government that would otherwise oppose it.

Few positive options

The limitations of air power to fuel significant political change in Iran should have given Trump pause about intervening in the conflict.

Some American support, such as providing weapons, is a given due to the close relationship between the U.S. and Israel. But any realization of American and Israeli aspirations of a non-nuclear Iran and a new government will likely require ground forces.

Recent American experiences in Afghanistan and Iraq show such a ground forces operation won’t lead to the swift victory that Trump desires, but could potentially stretch on for decades.

James Horncastle 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. Why Israel and the U.S. are sure to encounter the limits of air power in Iran – https://theconversation.com/why-israel-and-the-u-s-are-sure-to-encounter-the-limits-of-air-power-in-iran-259348
MIL OSI Analysis –
July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Analysis: Have you noticed that Nigel Farage doesn’t talk about Donald Trump anymore?

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Martin Farr, Senior Lecturer in Contemporary British History, Newcastle University

Each is the main political subject in their country, and one is the main political subject in the world. Each rode the populist wave in 2016, campaigning for the other. In 2024 the tandem surfers remounted on to an even greater breaker. Yet, though nothing has happened to suggest that bromance is dead, neither Donald Trump nor Nigel Farage publicly now speak of the other.

Trump’s presidential campaign shared personnel with Leave.eu, the unofficial Brexit campaign. Farage was on the stump with Trump, and his “bad boys of Brexit” made their pilgrimage to Trump Tower after its owner’s own triumph in the US election. Each exulted in the other’s success, and what it portended.

Trump duly proposed giving the UK ambassadorship to the United States to Farage. Instead, Farage became not merely MP for Clacton, but leader of the first insurgent party to potentially reset Britain’s electoral calculus since Labour broke through in 1922.

Then, Labour’s challenge was to replace the Liberals as the alternative party of government. It took two years. Reform UK could replace the Conservatives in four.

Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

Trump, meanwhile, has achieved what in Britain has either been thwarted (Militant and the Labour party in the 1980s) or has at most had temporary, aberrant, success (Momentum and the Labour party in the 2010s): the takeover of a party from within. Farage has been doing so – hitherto – from without.

At one of those historic forks in a road where change is a matter of chance, after Brexit finally took place, Farage considered his own personal leave – to go and break America.

The path had been trodden by Trump-friendly high-profile provocateurs before him: Steve Hilton, from David Cameron’s Downing Street, via cable news, now standing to be governor of California; Piers Morgan, off to CNN to replace the doyen of cable news Larry King, only to crash, but then to burn on, online. Liz Truss, never knowingly understated, has found her safe space – the rightwing speaking circuit.

But Farage remained stateside. He knew his domestic platform was primed more fully to exploit the voter distrust that his nationalist crusade had done so much to provoke.

The Trump effect

Genuine peacetime transatlantic affiliations are rare, usually confined to the leaders of established parties: Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher, Bill Clinton and Tony Blair. One consequence of the 2016 political shift is that the US Republicans and the British Conservatives, the latter still at least partially tethered to traditional politics, have become distanced.

During the first Trump administration, and even in the build up to the second, it was Farage who was seen as the UK’s bridge to the president. But today, at the peak of their influence, for Farage association can only be by inference, friendship with the US president is not – put mildly – of political advantage. For UK voters, Trump is the 19th most popular foreign politician, in between the King of Denmark and Benjamin Netanyahu.

There is, moreover, the “Trump effect”. Measuring this is crude – circumstances differ – but the trend is that elections may be won by openly criticising, rather than associating with, Trump. This was the case for Mark Carney in Canada, Anthony Albanese in Australia, and Nicușor Dan in Romania.

Trump’s second state visit to the UK will certainly be less awkward for Farage than it will be Starmer, the man who willed it. Farage will likely not – and has no reason to – be seen welcoming so divisive a figure.

Starmer has no choice but to, and to do so ostentatiously. It is typical of Starmer’s perfect storm of an administration that he will, in the process, do nothing to appeal to the sliver of British voters partial to Trump while further shredding his reputation with Labour voters. Farage would be well served in taking one of his tactical European sojourns for the duration. Starmer may be tempted too.

Outmanoeuvring the establishment

Reflecting the historic cultural differences of their countries, Trump’s prescription is less state, Farage’s is more. The Farage of 2025 that is. He had been robustly Thatcherite, but has lately embraced socialist interventionism, albeit through a most Thatcherite analysis: “the gap in the market was enormous”.

Reform UK now appears to stand for what Labour – in the mind of many of its voters – ought to. Eyeing the opportunity of smokestack grievances, Farage called for state control of steel production even as Trump was considering quite how high a tariff to put on it. Nationalisation and economic nationalism: associated restoratives for national malaise.

Aggressively heteronormative, Trump and Farage dabble in the natalism burgeoning in both countries – as much a cultural as an economic imperative. Each has mastered – and much more than their adversaries – social media. Each has come to recognise the demerits in publicly appeasing Putin.

And Reform’s rise in a hitherto Farage-resistant Scotland can only endear him further to a president whose Hebridean mother was thought of (in desperation) as potentially his Rosebud by British officials preparing for his first administration.

Given their rhetorical selectivity, Trump and Farage’s rolling pitches are almost unanswerable for convention-confined political opponents and reporters. These two anti-elite elitists continue to confound.

Unprecedentedly, for a former president, Trump ran against the incumbent; Farage will continue to exploit anti-incumbency, despite his party now being in office. Most elementally, the pair are bound for life by their very public near-death experiences. Theirs is, by any conceivable measure, an uncommon association.

Farage’s fleetness of foot would be apparent even without comparison with the leaden steps of the leaders of the legacy parties. His is a genius of opportunism. That’s why he knows not to remind us of his confrere across the water.

Martin Farr 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. Have you noticed that Nigel Farage doesn’t talk about Donald Trump anymore? – https://theconversation.com/have-you-noticed-that-nigel-farage-doesnt-talk-about-donald-trump-anymore-258333

MIL OSI Analysis –

July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: Have you noticed that Nigel Farage doesn’t talk about Donald Trump anymore?

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Martin Farr, Senior Lecturer in Contemporary British History, Newcastle University

Each is the main political subject in their country, and one is the main political subject in the world. Each rode the populist wave in 2016, campaigning for the other. In 2024 the tandem surfers remounted on to an even greater breaker. Yet, though nothing has happened to suggest that bromance is dead, neither Donald Trump nor Nigel Farage publicly now speak of the other.

Trump’s presidential campaign shared personnel with Leave.eu, the unofficial Brexit campaign. Farage was on the stump with Trump, and his “bad boys of Brexit” made their pilgrimage to Trump Tower after its owner’s own triumph in the US election. Each exulted in the other’s success, and what it portended.

Trump duly proposed giving the UK ambassadorship to the United States to Farage. Instead, Farage became not merely MP for Clacton, but leader of the first insurgent party to potentially reset Britain’s electoral calculus since Labour broke through in 1922.

Then, Labour’s challenge was to replace the Liberals as the alternative party of government. It took two years. Reform UK could replace the Conservatives in four.

Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

Trump, meanwhile, has achieved what in Britain has either been thwarted (Militant and the Labour party in the 1980s) or has at most had temporary, aberrant, success (Momentum and the Labour party in the 2010s): the takeover of a party from within. Farage has been doing so – hitherto – from without.

At one of those historic forks in a road where change is a matter of chance, after Brexit finally took place, Farage considered his own personal leave – to go and break America.

The path had been trodden by Trump-friendly high-profile provocateurs before him: Steve Hilton, from David Cameron’s Downing Street, via cable news, now standing to be governor of California; Piers Morgan, off to CNN to replace the doyen of cable news Larry King, only to crash, but then to burn on, online. Liz Truss, never knowingly understated, has found her safe space – the rightwing speaking circuit.

But Farage remained stateside. He knew his domestic platform was primed more fully to exploit the voter distrust that his nationalist crusade had done so much to provoke.

The Trump effect

Genuine peacetime transatlantic affiliations are rare, usually confined to the leaders of established parties: Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher, Bill Clinton and Tony Blair. One consequence of the 2016 political shift is that the US Republicans and the British Conservatives, the latter still at least partially tethered to traditional politics, have become distanced.

During the first Trump administration, and even in the build up to the second, it was Farage who was seen as the UK’s bridge to the president. But today, at the peak of their influence, for Farage association can only be by inference, friendship with the US president is not – put mildly – of political advantage. For UK voters, Trump is the 19th most popular foreign politician, in between the King of Denmark and Benjamin Netanyahu.

There is, moreover, the “Trump effect”. Measuring this is crude – circumstances differ – but the trend is that elections may be won by openly criticising, rather than associating with, Trump. This was the case for Mark Carney in Canada, Anthony Albanese in Australia, and Nicușor Dan in Romania.

Trump’s second state visit to the UK will certainly be less awkward for Farage than it will be Starmer, the man who willed it. Farage will likely not – and has no reason to – be seen welcoming so divisive a figure.

Starmer has no choice but to, and to do so ostentatiously. It is typical of Starmer’s perfect storm of an administration that he will, in the process, do nothing to appeal to the sliver of British voters partial to Trump while further shredding his reputation with Labour voters. Farage would be well served in taking one of his tactical European sojourns for the duration. Starmer may be tempted too.

Outmanoeuvring the establishment

Reflecting the historic cultural differences of their countries, Trump’s prescription is less state, Farage’s is more. The Farage of 2025 that is. He had been robustly Thatcherite, but has lately embraced socialist interventionism, albeit through a most Thatcherite analysis: “the gap in the market was enormous”.

Reform UK now appears to stand for what Labour – in the mind of many of its voters – ought to. Eyeing the opportunity of smokestack grievances, Farage called for state control of steel production even as Trump was considering quite how high a tariff to put on it. Nationalisation and economic nationalism: associated restoratives for national malaise.

Aggressively heteronormative, Trump and Farage dabble in the natalism burgeoning in both countries – as much a cultural as an economic imperative. Each has mastered – and much more than their adversaries – social media. Each has come to recognise the demerits in publicly appeasing Putin.

And Reform’s rise in a hitherto Farage-resistant Scotland can only endear him further to a president whose Hebridean mother was thought of (in desperation) as potentially his Rosebud by British officials preparing for his first administration.

Given their rhetorical selectivity, Trump and Farage’s rolling pitches are almost unanswerable for convention-confined political opponents and reporters. These two anti-elite elitists continue to confound.

Unprecedentedly, for a former president, Trump ran against the incumbent; Farage will continue to exploit anti-incumbency, despite his party now being in office. Most elementally, the pair are bound for life by their very public near-death experiences. Theirs is, by any conceivable measure, an uncommon association.

Farage’s fleetness of foot would be apparent even without comparison with the leaden steps of the leaders of the legacy parties. His is a genius of opportunism. That’s why he knows not to remind us of his confrere across the water.

Martin Farr 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. Have you noticed that Nigel Farage doesn’t talk about Donald Trump anymore? – https://theconversation.com/have-you-noticed-that-nigel-farage-doesnt-talk-about-donald-trump-anymore-258333

MIL OSI –

July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI NGOs: Serbia: Authorities must end unlawful use of force against protesters and investigate reports of police violence

Source: Amnesty International –

Following reports of a widespread violent crackdown on largely peaceful student protesters in Belgrade and other major towns across Serbia for the sixth consecutive day since 28 June, when student movement called for an early parliamentary election, Amnesty International and Civil Rights Defenders said in a joint statement:

“Footage of Serbian riot police indiscriminately targeting peaceful protesters gathered at blockades on the street and in front of universities in Belgrade is alarming. There have been widespread arrests and allegations of excessive or otherwise unlawful use of force against student protesters – during the protests, the arrests and in police custody. Authorities must urgently investigate and explain reports of masked individuals in civilian clothes targeting protesters.

“While the state has the responsibility to ensure public order and respond to individual violent incidents, any use of force must be a last resort, and be strictly necessary and proportionate to achieving a legitimate aim. A heavy-handed response to peaceful dissent cannot be justified.

Footage of Serbian riot police indiscriminately targeting peaceful protesters gathered at blockades on the street and in front of universities in Belgrade is alarming

“Serbian authorities must exercise restraint and ensure people can participate safely in demonstrations and express their dissent free from intimidation, harassment or violence. Failure to do so risks escalating tensions further. Instances of police use of unlawful force must be promptly and independently investigated and any officers suspected to have acted unlawfully must be brought to justice.

“EU leaders should unequivocally denounce any human rights violations against protesters and stress that guaranteeing the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression remains front and centre in Serbia’s EU accession process.”

Background

This week saw an increasing crackdown against largely peaceful civic actions after student protesters called for early parliamentary elections and set up hundreds of road blockades in multiple towns across the country. Amnesty International received reports about several hundred students, including high school students, and other protesters arrested on various criminal and administrative charges since Sunday. While many have been released, there were reports about police using excessive force both during the protests, arrests and detention, including beatings which left several students hospitalized for injuries.

Tens of thousands of people took to the streets of the Serbian capital Belgrade last Saturday demanding early parliamentary elections. The Saturday protest was the last in nearly eight months of persistent demonstrations across Serbia, triggered by the collapse of the railway station in Novi Sad in November 2024, which killed 16 people and sparked allegations about negligence and corruption in government infrastructure projects.

MIL OSI NGO –

July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Illegal import of English cars to Cyprus via Bulgaria – E-002583/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002583/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Loucas Fourlas (PPE)

There has been an increase in the number of cases of second-hand vehicles being illegally imported from the United Kingdom into the Republic of Cyprus via non-EU countries – mainly Bulgaria. Some cases show that administrative loopholes and rules governing the movement of vehicles in the EU are being exploited to avoid customs and fiscal checks. These practices undermine public security, tax fairness and transparency in the second-hand vehicle market.

In view of this, can the Commission answer the following:

1.Is it aware of these practices and the dangers they pose?

2.Does it intend to strengthen the framework for cooperation between customs authorities in the Member States to deal with such phenomena?

3.What measures does it propose to ensure the traceability of a vehicle’s movements between countries in the EU?

Submitted: 26.6.2025
Last updated: 4 July 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Illegal import of English cars to Cyprus via Bulgaria – E-002583/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002583/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Loucas Fourlas (PPE)

There has been an increase in the number of cases of second-hand vehicles being illegally imported from the United Kingdom into the Republic of Cyprus via non-EU countries – mainly Bulgaria. Some cases show that administrative loopholes and rules governing the movement of vehicles in the EU are being exploited to avoid customs and fiscal checks. These practices undermine public security, tax fairness and transparency in the second-hand vehicle market.

In view of this, can the Commission answer the following:

1.Is it aware of these practices and the dangers they pose?

2.Does it intend to strengthen the framework for cooperation between customs authorities in the Member States to deal with such phenomena?

3.What measures does it propose to ensure the traceability of a vehicle’s movements between countries in the EU?

Submitted: 26.6.2025
Last updated: 4 July 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: EIB Global steps up support for Montenegro’s economic development
Source: European Investment Bank

EIB
- EIB has signed a Host Country Agreement with the government of Montenegro
- EIB will provide a loan of €18 million loan and a grant of €2.3 million for the Montenegro’s education system
- Montenegro will use the loan for nationwide school renovations, while UNOPS will deploy the grant to provide technical assistance
Today at the European Investment Bank (EIB Global)’s Headquarters in Luxembourg, EIB Vice-President Robert de Groot and Montenegro’s Minister of Finance Novica Vukovic signed a Host Country Agreement between the EIB and Montenegro. This milestone reaffirms EIB Global’s commitment to supporting Montenegro on its path towards convergence with the EU, while paving the way for an EIB Representative to be based in the country for closer collaboration in the future.

In the presence of Montenegro’s Minister of Education Andjela Jaksic-Stojanovic and UNOPS Assistant Secretary-General and Deputy Executive Director for Delivery and Partnerships Kirstine Damkjaer, EIB Global signed a €20.3 million for the Montenegrin education sector. These funds comprise of an €18 million loan to the Montenegrin government and a grant to the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) for €2.3 million for technical assistance ensuring that the funds are used a strategically and impactfully.

The loan will go towards the renovation and digitalisation of pre-primary, primary and secondary schools in Montenegro, as well as to energy-efficiency improvements and the installation of new equipment for vocational training. Provided under the EIB’s Economic Resilience Initiative, the grant will be used by UNOPS to deliver technical support to the Montenegrin Ministry of Education in assessing existing school infrastructure and preparing key investment projects, while ensuring a strategic and impactful deployment of funds

“The Host Country Agreement signed today formalises the strong EIB support to Montenegro and marks a new chapter in our longstanding cooperation. This, alongside today’s new financing for Montenegro’s education sector, is set to bolster the country’s economic resilience. By creating a cutting-edge learning environment, we will deliver immediate and lasting benefits for students and teachers across Montenegro, while fostering youth employability and economic sustainability in response to evolving market demands.,” EIB Vice-President Robert de Groot said.

“Today’s signing of the loan agreement to improve education infrastructure, along with a Host Country Agreement establishing the EIB’s presence in Montenegro, strongly reaffirms the strategic partnership and mutual trust we have built over the years. These investments are not just about renovating schools – they are about investing in people, in knowledge, and in Montenegro’s future. The EIB’s physical presence in our country will further strengthen cooperation and ensure more effective implementation of development projects that serve our citizens and accelerate our path toward EU integration.”, said Finance Minister Novica Vuković.

The new accords bring total EIB Global support for education in Montenegro to €55 million since 2019, including an EU grant for €11 million provided under the Western Balkans Investment Framework. One result of previous financing in this area is the opening of Vladimir Nazor primary school in Podgorica

“The project entitled “Enhancing the Montenegrin Education System,” implemented by the Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation in cooperation with the Ministry of Finance and the European Investment Bank, is already producing tangible results. We are building new schools, renovating existing facilities, modernizing vocational schools, and investing in advanced equipment and infrastructure. This represents the most comprehensive investment in education infrastructure in the history of our country. My special thanks go to the EIB and UNOPS for their continued trust, support, and commitment to our shared vision for the future of education in Montenegro,” said Education Minister Andjela Jakšić-Stojanović.

UNOPS has years of experience working with the Montenegrin government to advance a range of areas including education.

“This agreement marks a milestone in UNOPS’ partnership with the EIB and the Government of Montenegro. UNOPS is proud to play a role in driving a transformative shift in Montenegro’s education system to ensure that appropriate infrastructure addresses the needs of people and becomes the enabler of key reforms in the country,” said Kirstine Damkjaer, UNOPS Deputy Executive Director for Delivery and Partnerships Kirstine Damkjaer.

“With this new investment, the European Union is helping Montenegro improve everyday conditions of pupils and teachers across the country. Renovated classrooms, energy-efficient buildings, and modern equipment are not only vital for quality education — they also support long-term economic development and social cohesion. This is a strategic investment in Montenegro’s future, and a clear sign of our continued partnership on the path to EU membership.”, said EU Ambassador to Montenegro Johan Sattler.

Background information

About the EIB and EIB Global

The EIB is the long-term financing institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. It makes long-term finance available for sound investment in order to contribute towards EU policy goals. The EIB supports projects in four priority areas: infrastructure, innovation, climate and environment, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). EIB Global is the EIB Group’s specialised arm devoted to increasing the impact of international partnerships and development finance, and a key partner of Global Gateway. It aims to support €100 billion of investment by the end of 2027 – around one-third of the overall target of this EU initiative. Within Team Europe, EIB Global fosters strong, focused partnerships alongside fellow development finance institutions and civil society. EIB Global brings the EIB Group closer to local people, companies and institutions through its offices around the world.

About the EIB in Montenegro

The EU bank has been an active partner of Montenegro, providing almost €1.1 billion in loans to the country, mostly in support of SMEs, education and transport infrastructure. For more information on EIB projects in Montenegro, visit https://www.eib.org/en/projects/regions/enlargement/the-western-balkans/montenegro/index.htm.

About the Economic Resilience Initiative (ERI)

The Economic Resilience Initiative, which backs the grant awareded, was established by the EIB in 2016 to channel donors’ resources to impactful projects in the Southern Neighbourhood and Western Balkans to help meet the challenges posed by forced displacement and migration. ERI has measurable economic, social and environmental outcomes that contribute to sustainable development goals relating to clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, decent work and economic growth, industry, innovation and infrastructure, and sustainable cities and communities.

About UNOPS

UNOPS offers practical solutions across peace and security, humanitarian and development operations. We help the United Nations, governments and other partners, such as the European Union, its Member States and financial institutions like the European Investment Bank, to manage projects, and deliver sustainable infrastructure and procurement across the world.
MIL OSI Europe News –
July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Law enshrining as the anthem of Styria, Austria, a controversial song containing territorial claims on Slovenia – P-002710/2025
Source: European Parliament
Priority question for written answer P-002710/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Matjaž Nemec (S&D)

The provincial parliament of the Austrian province of Styria has adopted a proposal by the ruling Freedom Party (FPÖ), a member of the Patriots Group, and the People’s Party (ÖVP), a member of the EPP Group, to include the controversial Dachsteinlied in the law on provincial symbols.

The song is controversial for Slovenia because the lyrics, which date from the 19th century, refer to the land of Austrian Styria extending ‘to the banks of the Sava and the Drava’, in other words to encompass present-day Slovenian territory.

By adopting this measure, the provincial government and parliament have taken a step in the direction of nationalist rhetoric, historical revisionism and politically motivated provocation, contrary to the fundamental principles and values of the European Union, including the principle of sincere cooperation between Member States, mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and commitment to the peaceful settlement of disputes.

Laws that can be understood as an expression of territorial claims or encroachment on the territorial integrity of another Member State have no place in the EU.

1.Is the Commission aware of the adoption of this law and of its content?

2.Is the law compatible with the values and legal order of the EU, in particular the principles of sincere cooperation and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Member States?

3.What steps does the Commission intend to take to ensure that Austria respects its obligations under the Treaties, and is the Commission considering initiating infringement proceedings before the Court of Justice of the EU?

Submitted: 2.7.2025
Last updated: 4 July 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Methodical killing of stray animals in Romania and potential misuse of EU funds – E-002593/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002593/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Sebastian Everding (The Left), Anja Hazekamp (The Left), Manuela Ripa (PPE), Sirpa Pietikäinen (PPE), Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă (NI), Emil Radev (PPE), Friedrich Pürner (NI), Tilly Metz (Verts/ALE), Merja Kyllönen (The Left), Emma Fourreau (The Left), Tomáš Kubín (PfE)

There is a well-founded suspicion that EU funding is being severely misused in Romania, where stray dogs are being killed systematically by privately run organisations financed by the Romanian government. The resources used for these operations are EU funds received to protect animals.

In several counties, local authorities regularly conclude contracts with private organisations whose business model is based on the methodical killing of stray animals. In 2024 alone, 3 871 dogs were captured, of which 3 286 were killed. These operations generated revenues in excess of RON 2.7 million.

1.Does the Commission plan to undertake an immediate, independent investigation into the use of EU funds in connection with the killing of stray animals in Romania?

2.Since animal welfare is expressly enshrined in Article 13 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, is the Commission prepared to make sure that no form of applicable EU funding is used for the killing of stray animals, but can only be used for the humane management of stray animals, such as castration/sterilisation programmes, public education campaigns and the funding of non-profit shelters?

3.Could the Commission specifically confirm that EU funding has not been used for the killing of stray animals under the pretext of the Animal Health Law delegated act on the eradication of infectious diseases[1]?

Submitted: 26.6.2025

[1] Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/687 of 17 December 2019 supplementing Regulation (EU) 2016/429 of the European Parliament and the Council, as regards rules for the prevention and control of certain listed diseases (OJ L 174, 3.6.2020, p. 64, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg_del/2020/687/oj).
Last updated: 4 July 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI NGOs: Sky-high protest: activists confront fossil gas in Croatia during heatwave emergency

Source: Greenpeace Statement –

Pula, Croatia – Greenpeace Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) activists from six countries have climbed 135 meters (the height of a skyscraper) up a towering fossil gas installation platform known as a Jackup rig, to stage a protest in Pula on the Croatian Adriatic Sea. They unfurled two banners saying “Stop Gas” and “Start Future”, illustrated with solar and wind energy. Greenpeace is calling for an immediate ban on all new fossil fuel projects in the European Union and a fossil gas phase-out by 2035 through a swift, fair transition to renewable energy.

Photos and videos are available in the Greenpeace Media Library.

As a record-breaking heatwave is sweeping across Croatia and much of Europe and North Africa, activists from Austria, Hungary, Croatia, Poland, Germany and Slovenia climbed up the platform at the port of Pula before unfurling their 45-metre long banners. This action comes just days after the first legal step in the groundbreaking anti-SLAPP case to protect freedom of expression and stop abusive lawsuits initiated by Greenpeace International in the EU, after US oil company Energy Transfer’s attempt to silence the organisation.

Eszter Matyas, Greenpeace CEE campaigner with the European Fossil-Free Future campaign said: “No matter how hard fossil fuel companies try to silence us, we will keep fighting their destructive business. Europe is the fastest-warming continent, and fossil gas is fuelling that crisis. Today, we’re taking a stand at a pivotal site: a facility used to explore and develop new gas drilling projects in the Adriatic. No matter where it comes from, fossil gas is driving us deeper into climate chaos. We have a message to EU leaders: stop greenlighting new fossil gas infrastructure. Phase out fossil gas by 2035.”

Petra Andrić, Greenpeace Croatia climate campaigner, added: “Floods, heatwaves and wildfires are sweeping the globe as the oil and gas industry drives us deeper into the climate crisis. Croatia must stop funding outdated fossil fuel infrastructure and invest in solar, wind, energy storage and energy efficiency. Every delay tightens our dependence on dirty, dangerous fuel and makes the transition more difficult and expensive. We’re fighting for a greener, fairer future with clean, sustainable energy for all. That future starts now.”

Greenpeace’s Fossil-Free Future campaign is currently on an expedition across Europe with the Greenpeace ship Arctic Sunrise to spark debate about Europe’s energy system and question its dependence on fossil gas. Campaigners are confronting the fossil fuel industry and promoting a fair phase-out of fossil gas, through a just transition to renewable energy that allows everyone to meet their energy needs at a decent price, without harming people, the planet or the environment.[1] In March, the Arctic Sunrise was in Belgium to denounce how Europe’s reliance on fossil gas fuels geopolitical instability, while leaving households burdened with skyrocketing energy costs. Last week in Italy as the latest European heatwave began, activists protested the toxic alliance on fossil gas between US President Trump and Italy Prime Minister Meloni.

ENDS

Photos and videos are available in the Greenpeace Media Library.

Notes:

[1] Greenpeace is gathering support for a ban on all new fossil gas -and fossil fuel- infrastructure projects in the EU. The Fossil-Free Future campaign’s Open Letter to the EU and national governments has already gathered 82.000 signatures.

Contacts:

Manon Laudy, Press Officer, Fossil-Free Future Campaign, Greenpeace Netherlands, +336 49 15 69 83, [email protected]

Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0)20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), [email protected]

MIL OSI NGO –

July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: EU Archives: A new EU flag, Death of Simone Veil, Croatia becomes a new EU member

Source: European Commission (video statements)

In 1986 the EU flag as we know it today was first hoisted in front of EU headquarters in Brussels. More than 25 years later, the EU welcomed its most recent member state.
Want to discover more? Dive further with us into the European Commission’s audiovisual archives and discover important anniversaries with our new weekly AV history teaser!

Upcoming anniversaries in the teaser:

· 1986: European flag inauguration ceremony in front of the Berlaymont headquarters
· 1995: Death of Dutch EU founding father Sicco Mansholt
· 2010: Price caps on roaming within the EU come into force
· 2013: Croatia becomes the 28th EU member state
· 2017: Death of former European Parliament President and French Politician Simone Veil

Get the complete material from our archive:

https://europa.eu/!DPMbPT
https://europa.eu/!v86CGp
https://europa.eu/!mvQ8BT
https://europa.eu/!ktrhYk
https://europa.eu/!VfMcJr
https://europa.eu/!f99DC6

Follow us on:
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Check our website: http://ec.europa.eu/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y9x07-zrFus

MIL OSI Video –

July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Final draft agenda – Tuesday, 8 July 2025 – Strasbourg

Source: European Parliament
84 Tackling China’s critical raw materials export restrictions – Motions for resolutions Monday, 7 July 2025, 19:00 – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions Tuesday, 8 July 2025, 19:00 – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions Tuesday, 8 July 2025, 20:00 – Requests for “separate”, “split” and “roll-call” votes Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 16:00 55 The role of gas storage for securing gas supplies ahead of the winter season
Borys Budka (A10-0079/2025) – Amendments; rejection Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 39 Temporary derogation from certain provisions of Regulations (EU) 2017/2226 and (EU) 2016/399
Assita Kanko (A10-0082/2025) – Amendments; rejection Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 30 EU-Greenland and Denmark Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement: Implementing Protocol 2025-2030 (Resolution)
Emma Fourreau (A10-0103/2025) – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 23 Financial activities of the European Investment Bank – annual report 2024
Francisco Assis (A10-0112/2025) – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 44 Security of energy supply in the EU
Beata Szydło (A10-0121/2025) – Amendments by the rapporteur, 71 MEPs at least; Alternative motions for resolutions Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 19 2023 and 2024 reports on Albania
Andreas Schieder (A10-0106/2025) – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 18 2023 and 2024 reports on Bosnia and Herzegovina
Ondřej Kolář (A10-0108/2025) – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 46 2023 and 2024 reports on North Macedonia
Thomas Waitz (A10-0118/2025) – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 17 2023 and 2024 reports on Georgia
Rasa Juknevičienė (A10-0110/2025) – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 Separate votes – Split votes – Roll-call votes Texts put to the vote on Tuesday Friday, 4 July 2025, 12:00 Texts put to the vote on Wednesday Monday, 7 July 2025, 19:00 Texts put to the vote on Thursday Tuesday, 8 July 2025, 19:00 Motions for resolutions concerning debates on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 19:00

MIL OSI Europe News –

July 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Final draft agenda – Tuesday, 8 July 2025 – Strasbourg

Source: European Parliament
84 Tackling China’s critical raw materials export restrictions – Motions for resolutions Monday, 7 July 2025, 19:00 – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions Tuesday, 8 July 2025, 19:00 – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions Tuesday, 8 July 2025, 20:00 – Requests for “separate”, “split” and “roll-call” votes Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 16:00 55 The role of gas storage for securing gas supplies ahead of the winter season
Borys Budka (A10-0079/2025) – Amendments; rejection Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 39 Temporary derogation from certain provisions of Regulations (EU) 2017/2226 and (EU) 2016/399
Assita Kanko (A10-0082/2025) – Amendments; rejection Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 30 EU-Greenland and Denmark Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement: Implementing Protocol 2025-2030 (Resolution)
Emma Fourreau (A10-0103/2025) – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 23 Financial activities of the European Investment Bank – annual report 2024
Francisco Assis (A10-0112/2025) – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 44 Security of energy supply in the EU
Beata Szydło (A10-0121/2025) – Amendments by the rapporteur, 71 MEPs at least; Alternative motions for resolutions Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 19 2023 and 2024 reports on Albania
Andreas Schieder (A10-0106/2025) – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 18 2023 and 2024 reports on Bosnia and Herzegovina
Ondřej Kolář (A10-0108/2025) – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 46 2023 and 2024 reports on North Macedonia
Thomas Waitz (A10-0118/2025) – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 17 2023 and 2024 reports on Georgia
Rasa Juknevičienė (A10-0110/2025) – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 Separate votes – Split votes – Roll-call votes Texts put to the vote on Tuesday Friday, 4 July 2025, 12:00 Texts put to the vote on Wednesday Monday, 7 July 2025, 19:00 Texts put to the vote on Thursday Tuesday, 8 July 2025, 19:00 Motions for resolutions concerning debates on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 19:00

MIL OSI Europe News –

July 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Final draft agenda – Wednesday, 9 July 2025 – Strasbourg

Source: European Parliament
88 Objection pursuant to Rule 114(3): amending Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1675 to add certain countries to the list of high-risk third countries, and to remove other countries from that list – Amendments Friday, 4 July 2025, 12:00 83 Objection pursuant to Rule 115(2) and (3): Deforestation Regulation – list of countries presenting a low or high risk – Amendments Friday, 4 July 2025, 12:00 25 Amending Regulation (EU) No 1026/2012 on certain measures for the purpose of the conservation of fish stocks in relation to countries allowing non-sustainable fishing
Thomas Bajada (A10-0070/2025) – Amendments; rejection Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 48 Draft amending budget no 1/2025: entering the surplus of the financial year 2024
Victor Negrescu (A10-0116/2025) – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 52 Mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund: assistance to Austria, Poland, Czechia, Slovakia and Moldova relating to floods that occurred in September 2024 and Bosnia and Herzegovina relating to floods that occurred in October 2024
Andrzej Halicki (A10-0114/2025) – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 53 Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: Application EGF/2025/000 TA 2025 – Technical assistance at the initiative of the Commission
Jean-Marc Germain (A10-0115/2025) – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 27 Product safety and regulatory compliance in e-commerce and non-EU imports
Salvatore De Meo (A10-0133/2025) – Amendments by the rapporteur, 71 MEPs at least; Alternative motions for resolutions Thursday, 3 July 2025, 13:00 – Joint alternative motions for resolutions Friday, 4 July 2025, 12:00 19 2023 and 2024 reports on Albania
Andreas Schieder (A10-0106/2025) – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 18 2023 and 2024 reports on Bosnia and Herzegovina
Ondřej Kolář (A10-0108/2025) – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 46 2023 and 2024 reports on North Macedonia
Thomas Waitz (A10-0118/2025) – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 17 2023 and 2024 reports on Georgia
Rasa Juknevičienė (A10-0110/2025) – Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 28 Implementation and delivery of the Sustainable Development Goals in view of the 2025 High-Level Political Forum
Robert Biedroń, Nikolas Farantouris (A10-0125/2025) – Amendments by the rapporteur, 71 MEPs at least, Alternative motions for resolutions Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 60 The human cost of Russia’s war against Ukraine and the urgent need to end Russian aggression: the situation of illegally detained civilians and prisoners of war, and the continued bombing of civilians – Motions for resolutions Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions Friday, 4 July 2025, 12:00 – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions Friday, 4 July 2025, 13:00 80 Case of Ryan Cornelius in Dubai – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 7 July 2025, 20:00 – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 13:00 – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 14:00 81 Arbitrary arrest and torture of Belgian-Portuguese researcher Joseph Figueira Martin in the Central African Republic – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 7 July 2025, 20:00 – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 13:00 – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 14:00 82 Urgent need to protect religious minorities in Syria following the recent terrorist attack on Mar Elias Church in Damascus – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 7 July 2025, 20:00 – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 13:00 – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 14:00 Separate votes – Split votes – Roll-call votes Texts put to the vote on Tuesday Friday, 4 July 2025, 12:00 Texts put to the vote on Wednesday Monday, 7 July 2025, 19:00 Texts put to the vote on Thursday Tuesday, 8 July 2025, 19:00 Motions for resolutions concerning debates on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 19:00

MIL OSI Europe News –

July 4, 2025