NewzIntel.com

Category: Balkans

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 34 International Cargo Air Routes Link China’s Xinjiang to the Outside World

    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

    BEIJING, July 4 (Xinhua) — A cargo air route was launched on Thursday between Urumqi, capital of northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, and the Serbian city of Nis, served by Uzbekistan’s Centrum Air.

    Its Boeing 767-300F aircraft delivered 52.71 tons of goods to Serbia as part of cross-border e-commerce.

    According to the Zhongxinshe News Agency, citing a source in the Xinjiang Airport Group, eight new international cargo airlines were opened in January-June this year, linking Xinjiang with the outside world. The total number of international cargo air routes in Xinjiang has now reached 34. Thanks to this, Urumqi Tianshan International Airport has become a key aviation logistics hub connecting Xinjiang with Central Asia and Europe. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Prisoner Releases in Belarus: Joint Statement to the OSCE, July 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Prisoner Releases in Belarus: Joint Statement to the OSCE, July 2025

    UK and others call for immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners

    Madam Chair, I am delivering this statement on behalf of the following participating States, who are members of the Informal Group of Friends of Democratic Belarus: Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Czechia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Montenegro, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Ukraine, the United Kingdom and my own country, Germany.

    The following participating States are also joining this statement: Albania, Andorra, Bosnia and Hercegovina, Liechtenstein, Malta, Moldova, North Macedonia and San Marino.

    We welcome the release of several political prisoners, including Siarhei Tsikhanousky, in which the United States of America played a crucial role.

    While these are positive steps, we are deeply concerned that as of 26 June at least 1 170 political prisoners still remain in custody in Belarus according to the human rights organization Viasna. Many are subjected to torture and ill-treatment, including prolonged isolation and denial of essential medical care. Tragically, at least eight of them died in detention due to these inhumane conditions.

    We are also mindful of those who, upon release, are forced to flee Belarus or are compelled to remain under continuous repression that effectively prolongs their punishment beyond imprisonment.

    Moreover, the Belarusian authorities continue to arrest and detain opponents or people perceived as such and to suppress independent media, in disregard of international obligations and OSCE principles and commitments.

    Against this background, we reiterate our call for the Belarusian authorities to: stop persecuting individuals for exercising their rights to freedom of expression, to freedom of association and to peaceful assembly; immediately and unconditionally release all political prisoners, most urgently those with health issues and disabilities, the elderly and single parents and to ensure their rehabilitation; and, ensure fair and humane treatment of all prisoners, in particular by allowing prisoners who have been prevented from communicating with their families to do so, and by granting prompt access to appropriate medical care for those in need.

    We will continue to support the Belarusian people’s aspiration for a free, democratic and independent Belarus.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: International Day in Support of Victims of Torture 2025: Joint Statement to the OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    International Day in Support of Victims of Torture 2025: Joint Statement to the OSCE

    UK and 41 other OSCE participating States mark the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture

    Mr Chair, I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of 42 participating States: Albania, Andorra, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Canada, Georgia, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Montenegro, Moldova, North Macedonia, Norway, San Marino, Ukraine, United Kingdom, the member states of the European Union and my own country Switzerland.

    On this International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the absolute prohibition of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. This prohibition is clearly enshrined in international human rights law and international humanitarian law – in particular in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the UN Convention against Torture. We recall that the prohibition of torture is also considered a peremptory norm of general international law (jus cogens) and therefore does not allow for any derogation, even in situations of emergency.

    Five years after the adoption of the Tirana Ministerial Council Decision on the Prevention and Eradication of Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, the eradication of the use of torture in the OSCE region remains a distant goal. Torture and ill-treatment continue to occur across the region. Let us use this anniversary to redouble our efforts.

    Preventing torture requires transparency and independent monitoring. We call on all participating States to consider ratifying and implementing the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (OPCAT) and to ensure that independent and effective National Preventive Mechanisms are in place. Regular and unrestricted access to all places of detention is essential.

    In many detention facilities, conditions remain dire: overcrowding, lack of medical care, unsanitary conditions, prolonged isolation, and abuse during custody or interrogation. These conditions can amount to inhuman or degrading treatment and, at times, to torture.

    Perhaps even more pressing, torture has reemerged as a systematic and widespread practice in the context of armed conflict including occupation in the OSCE region. Torture and other inhuman treatment or acts may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity. In the context of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, the systematic use of torture by Russian forces has been thoroughly documented – including by the UN Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, the OSCE Moscow Mechanism and ODIHR.

    Mr Chair, we are also alarmed by numerous reports of torture and ill-treatment used to suppress civil society and silence dissent. We express our strong support for civil society and human rights defenders. Their role in documentation, victim support and independent oversight is indispensable – and must be protected from reprisals.

    The use of torture and ill-treatment as means of intimidation, punishment or coercion are unacceptable in any context, and no derogation is permitted. We stand firm in our commitment to justice and accountability. These grave violations of international law, including human rights law and OSCE commitments, must not go unpunished.

    We urge all participating States to adopt a victim-centered and gender- responsive approach in all anti-torture efforts. Rehabilitation, justice and prevention must be guided by the voices and needs of survivors. The Méndez Principles should guide ethical and non-coercive interviewing practices.

    Mr Chair, torture must never be tolerated. Let us renew our collective efforts to uphold human dignity, support victims and survivors, and ensure accountability across the OSCE region and beyond.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: Djokovic steps up bid for Wimbledon history, Sinner cruises

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

    World No. 1 Jannik Sinner and 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic both cruised into the men’s singles third round at the Wimbledon Championships on Thursday.

    Novak Djokovic of Serbia hits a return during the men’s singles second round match between Daniel Evans of Britain and Novak Djokovic of Serbia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Britain, July 3, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

    Sinner, 23, faced little trouble as he beat Australia’s Aleksandar Vukic 6-1, 6-1, 6-3. The Italian needed just one hour and 40 minutes to wrap up the final match on Center Court and set up a third-round clash with Spaniard Pedro Martinez.

    Earlier, Djokovic also enjoyed a swift win as the 38-year-old Serbian defeated British player Daniel Evans 6-3, 6-2, 6-0.

    “I’m very, very pleased with the performance,” said Djokovic, who spent seven more minutes on court than Sinner. “From the very first point of the get-go, I was really sharp. I didn’t really want to give Dan a chance to come back to the match. I really tried to pressure him constantly from the back of the court.”

    “If I play like today, I feel like I have a very good chance against anybody,” added the seven-time Wimbledon champion, who has reached six finals in the last six editions of the tournament. He won four titles consecutively before being beaten by Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz in the past two years.

    In the women’s singles, Polish star Iga Swiatek came from a set down to beat American Caty McNally 5-7, 6-2, 6-1, while former Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan breezed past Greece’s Maria Sakkari 6-3, 6-1.

    China’s Wang Xinyu, who knocked out 15th seed Karolina Muchova in the first round, lost to Turkey’s Zeynep Sonmez 7-5, 7-5 in the second round. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Physical aggression towards an EU diplomat in Russia and protection measures for EU personnel – E-002471/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002471/2025/rev.1
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Victor Negrescu (S&D)

    According to information in the international media which has been confirmed by the Commission’s spokesperson, an employee of the Delegation of the EU to the Russian Federation was physically attacked in Vladivostok at the end of May 2025 during an official mission. According to diplomatic sources, the attack was carried out by persons associated, or suspected of being affiliated, with the Russian security services.

    This unprecedentedly serious incident is an unacceptable escalation of the systematic harassment to which European diplomats are subjected in the Russian Federation. This act not only constitutes a flagrant breach of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, but also endangers the safety of European diplomats and directly affects the EU’s ability to maintain a minimal level of institutional dialogue with Russia.

    • 1.What concrete measures have been taken to protect the Romanian diplomat, or are being planned to guarantee the safety of EU diplomats in Russia and other high-risk regions?
    • 2.What official steps have been taken vis-à-vis the Russian authorities in the wake of this serious incident, and what have been the outcomes of the discussions with Russia?
    • 3.Is the European Union prepared to reassess the level of its diplomatic presence in Russia and take firm action, including sanctions, if no credible guarantees of respect for the status of EU personnel are given?

    Submitted: 18.6.2025

    Last updated: 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on preserving the memory of the victims of the post-war communist period in Slovenia – B10-0322/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    B10‑0322/2025

    European Parliament resolution on preserving the memory of the victims of the post-war communist period in Slovenia

    (2025/2575(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to the Treaty on European Union, particularly Article 2 thereof, which upholds respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality and human rights,

    – having regard to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and related United Nations resolutions,

    – having regard to Resolution 1481 of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe of 26 January 2006 on the need for international condemnation of crimes of totalitarian communist regimes,

    – having regard to the Prague Declaration on European Conscience and Communism of 3 June 2008, which calls for Europe-wide condemnation of, and education about, the crimes of communism,

    – having regard to its declaration of 23 September 2008 on the proclamation of 23 August as European Day of Remembrance for Victims of Stalinism and Nazism[1],

    – having regard to the Vilnius Declaration of the OSCE of July 2009 condemning totalitarianism and supporting the European Day of Remembrance for Victims of Stalinism and Nazism,

    – having regard to its resolution of 2 April 2009 on European conscience and totalitarianism[2],

    – having regard to the Commission report of 22 December 2010 entitled ‘The memory of the crimes committed by totalitarian regimes in Europe’ (COM(2010)0783),

    – having regard to its resolution of 19 September 2019 on the importance of European remembrance for the future of Europe[3],

    – having regard to its resolution of 17 January 2024 on European historical consciousness[4],

    – having regard to Petition No 0718/2023,

    – having regard to Rule 233(2) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas European history, in all its complexity, should be respected and addressed through an objective, inclusive and evidence-based dialogue that promotes understanding and reconciliation and that should be conducted by professional historians and not be subject to political influence;

    B. whereas preserving the memory of Europe’s tragic past and remembering all victims of totalitarian and authoritarian regimes is essential for honouring the dignity of those victims, promoting reconciliation, human rights and the rule of law, and fostering a culture of peace and mutual respect;

    C. whereas Parliament has adopted a resolution on European consciousness and totalitarianism and has always been committed to preserving the memory of victims of all totalitarian regimes;

    D. whereas the crimes committed during the Second World War in Slovenia and other republics of the former Yugoslavia must never be forgotten;

    E. whereas in the aftermath of the Second World War, more than 100 000 Slovenian residents who resisted the communist system and its ideological repression were victims of violence in various forms; whereas these acts constituted serious violations of fundamental human rights, including the right to life, a fair trial and a decent burial;

    F. whereas tens of thousands of civilians and prisoners of war were extrajudicially executed by the Yugoslav communist regime in Slovenia; whereas in 1945 alone, thousands were executed right after the end of the war;

    G. whereas the Slovenian Government Commission on Concealed Mass Graves has identified over 750 locations of hidden gravesites, revealing a systematic effort to conceal these crimes, yet the places of execution have not been located and the victims have not been properly buried;

    H. whereas mass graves were covered up for decades and public discussion of these crimes was strictly prohibited under the totalitarian regime, thus burying historical truth and hindering the process of reconciliation;

    I. whereas the Slovenian Government abolished the National Day of Remembrance for victims of communist violence in 2023, which represents a serious backward step in efforts to ensure historical justice, reconciliation and respect for victims;

    J. whereas European history should be remembered and discussed objectively, and whereas the victims of the communist massacres in Slovenia therefore deserve remembrance and respect; whereas respect for the historical memory of the victims of all totalitarian regimes contributes to the building of a just and democratic society;

    K. whereas the Slovenian National Assembly passed a law in December 2024 banning the use of symbols of Nazism, fascism and their collaborationist organisations from the Second World War, but not the symbols of communism;

    L. whereas forced labour camps existed in all former Yugoslav republics; whereas these camps were used by the totalitarian communist regime in the country as a tool for suppressing all political opposition;

    1. Takes the view that the memory of crimes committed by totalitarian regimes should form part of the collective memory that makes up modern European history; acknowledges the crimes committed by Nazi, fascist and communist totalitarian regimes and the role these crimes have played in shaping historical perceptions in Europe;

    2. Underlines the importance of including historical facts in educational programmes and history textbooks to ensure that young people understand the importance of democracy and human rights;

    3. Reaffirms its condemnation of all forms of totalitarianism and authoritarianism, including communism, in line with its previous resolutions on historical memory and human rights;

    4. Reaffirms that crimes against humanity have no statute of limitations and should all be judged and handled against the same scale; reaffirms its unequivocal condemnation of historical revisionism and the glorification of Nazi collaborators and other wartime actors responsible for atrocities during and after the Second World War, including the trivialisation of crimes perpetrated by the Nazi and Fascist regimes and their allies, as well as the actions of collaborationist forces and the Yugoslav communist authorities; reiterates the importance of accurate and inclusive historical remembrance that recognises the full scale of totalitarian violence; emphasises the moral responsibility to preserve the memory of all innocent victims of totalitarian and authoritarian regimes in a spirit of reconciliation, truth and democratic values, while rejecting any exploitation of history for political gain and urging continued scholarly engagement with this complex legacy;

    5. Calls for the preservation of the memory of all innocent victims of the communist regime in Slovenia, from its inception to its downfall;

    6. Underlines the importance of the dedicated work taking place on the full disclosure of historical facts, and the continuation of the official investigative mission to uncover the sites of mass graves in Slovenia in order to document and verify historical evidence of crimes committed;

    7. Highlights that many of those responsible for post-war crimes were not held accountable for their actions;

    8. Believes that the victims of Second World War and post-war retribution violence by the Yugoslav communist authorities in Slovenia must be buried properly and with dignity; calls on the Slovenian authorities to continue to do their utmost to guarantee the universal right to burial, and to maintain supporting institutions that contribute to a scholarly and evidence-based understanding of historical events;

    9. Notes that Member States have established memorials to commemorate totalitarian atrocities; calls on Slovenian authorities to continue investigating concealed graves, conduct dignified burials, and establish memorial sites to serve as reminders for future generations;

    10. Reiterates that the official day of remembrance for the millions of victims of totalitarian regimes, known as the European Day of Remembrance for Victims of All Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes, is 23 August;

    11. Stresses the importance of keeping the memory of crimes committed by totalitarian regimes alive, as there can be no reconciliation without remembrance; recalls that remembrance policies fall under the competence of the Member States and therefore do not fall within the scope of EU law; encourages all Member States to actively support remembrance policy projects that foster reconciliation rather than division or political instrumentalisation;

    12. Recalls that the Commission is providing funding under the citizens, equality, rights and values programme to support remembrance actions and research and education projects that reflect on the causes of totalitarian regimes, in particular Nazism, but also fascism, Stalinism and communist regimes, and to commemorate the victims of their crimes;

    13. Believes that a National Day of Remembrance in Slovenia should commemorate victims of authoritarian and totalitarian regimes, including communism, to respect historical justice and contribute to reconciliation;

    14. Calls on the Commission to continue the programme of historical remembrance taking into account all tragedies, to support projects across Europe that address the history of totalitarian crimes, encourage remembrance and serve reconciliation; Reiterates that the crimes of the totalitarian Yugoslav communist regime are not limited to Slovenia and that victims exist in all former Yugoslav republics and autonomous regions;

    15. Calls for a comprehensive examination of the archives of the Yugoslav secret services, in particular KOS and UDBA;

    16. Underlines that all totalitarian regimes should be condemned and that their symbols should not be promoted;

    17. Calls on Slovenia and the other Member States to strive to strengthen historical memory, mutual understanding and reconciliation based on truth and respect for all victims of totalitarian regimes;

    18. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the European Commission, the Council of the European Union, the Slovenian Government and parliament, and the governments and parliaments of the other Member States.

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Pre-removal detention centres (CPRs) in Albania and compliance with EU rules, principles and standards – E-001425/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In accordance with the information available to the Commission, one of the centres established on Albanian territory on the basis of the bilateral protocol with Albania can be used as a pre-removal detention centre subject to Italian law and jurisdiction. This is an intermediate step before an illegally staying third-country national is returned to a third country.

    The Return Directive[1] sets out common standards and procedures for the return of illegally staying third-country nationals, including on detention for the purpose of removal, in accordance with the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU and international law, including the right to asylum and the principle of non-refoulement.

    • [1] Directive 2008/115/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2008 on common standards and procedures in Member States for returning illegally staying third-country nationals, OJ L 348, 24.12.2008, p. 98-107.
    Last updated: 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION OF CENSURE ON THE COMMISSION – B10-0319/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    pursuant to Rule 131 of the Rules of Procedure

    Gheorghe Piperea, Adrian‑George Axinia, Claudiu‑Richard Târziu, Georgiana Teodorescu, Şerban Dimitrie Sturdza, Fidias Panayiotou, Daniel Obajtek, Ivan David, Patryk Jaki, Zsuzsanna Borvendég, Fernand Kartheiser, Nikolaos Anadiotis, Volker Schnurrbusch, Katarína Roth Neveďalová, Irmhild Boßdorf, Virginie Joron, Ondřej Dostál, Cristian Terheş, Christine Anderson, António Tânger Corrêa, Emmanouil Fragkos, Milan Mazurek, Alexander Jungbluth, Siegbert Frank Droese, Petar Volgin, Rada Laykova, Stanislav Stoyanov, Arno Bausemer, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Bogdan Rzońca, Milan Uhrík, Mary Khan, Tomasz Froelich, Hans Neuhoff, Alexander Sell, René Aust, Petr Bystron, Jacek Ozdoba, Galato Alexandraki, Kosma Złotowski, Waldemar Buda, Tobiasz Bocheński, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Marlena Maląg, Mariusz Kamiński, Dominik Tarczyński, Anna Zalewska, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Maciej Wąsik, Michał Dworczyk, Alvise Pérez, Luis‑Vicențiu Lazarus, Erik Kaliňák, Judita Laššáková, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Ewa Zajączkowska‑Hernik, Jaak Madison, Anja Arndt, Marcin Sypniewski, Markus Buchheit, Filip Turek, Friedrich Pürner, Kateřina Konečná, Ľuboš Blaha, Thierry Mariani, Jan‑Peter Warnke, Thomas Geisel, Branislav Ondruš, Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă, Monika Beňová, Marc Jongen, Nikola Bartůšek, Grzegorz Braun, Sarah Knafo, Petras Gražulis, Piotr Müller, Gerald Hauser

    B10‑0319/2025

    Motion of censure on the Commission by the European Parliament

    (2025/2140(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to Article 17(8) of the Treaty on European Union (TEU), Article 234 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) and Article 106a of the Euratom Treaty,

    – having regard to the request submitted under Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 2001 regarding public access to European Parliament, Council and Commission documents[1] by Matina Stevi, a journalist employed by The New York Times, seeking access to all text messages exchanged between President Ursula von der Leyen and Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla between 1 January 2021 and 11 May 2022,

    – having regard to the Commission’s refusal of this request on the grounds that it does not possess the requested documents,

    – having regard to the judgment of the General Court of 14 May 2025, in Case T-36/23 Stevi – The New York Times / Commission[2], which found that the Commission has not given a plausible explanation to justify the non- possession of the requested documents concerning its dealings with Pfizer/BioNTech in the procurement of COVID-19 vaccines and which clarified that the Commission’s duty of transparency is fundamental and that refusal to disclose documents must be strictly justified with compelling reasons,

    – having regard to Article 10(3) TEU, which guarantees the right of citizens to participate in the democratic life of the Union and calls for decisions to be taken openly and as closely as possible to the citizen,

    – having regard to Rule 131 of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) opened an investigation in 2022 into the European Commission’s conduct in the negotiation and conclusion of COVID-19 vaccine procurement contracts with Pfizer, which remains ongoing as of 2025 and raises credible concerns regarding potential legal and ethical breaches, as well as potential irregularities in the management of Union financial resources;

    B. whereas the General Court of the European Union, in its order of 5 October 2023 in Case T- 36/23, Stevi – The New York Times/ Commission, ruled that the Commission had failed to provide legally sufficient justification for its refusal to disclose the requested documents related to the Pfizer vaccine negotiations;

    C. whereas the Commission contravened its obligations under Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001 on public access to documents and violated the principles of transparency, good administration, and institutional accountability stipulated in the Treaties;

    D. whereas the Commission allocated EUR 35 billion in public funds for COVID-19 vaccines, yet failed to ensure transparency and accountability, especially as EUR 4 billion worth of doses remained unused, raising serious concerns over financial oversight and administrative failure;

    E. whereas the General Court, in its judgment of 14 May 2025, annulled the European Commission’s decision to deny access to text messages between Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla, exchanged between 1 January 2021 and 11 May 2022, concerning the procurement of COVID-19 vaccines;

    F. whereas the Court of Auditors, in its Special Report No. 22/2024 adopted on 26 September 2024, identified serious shortcomings in the implementation of the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), including insufficient linkages between disbursed funds and actual costs, weak verification mechanisms, risks of double funding, and delays in achieving investment targets, raising significant concerns over the Commission’s oversight of one of the largest post-COVID financial instruments;

    G. whereas the Court of Auditors has pointed out that the lack of robust controls and the reliance on self-reporting by Member States increase the risk of ‘double funding’, a situation in which the same actions may be financed multiple times, leading to inefficiencies and potential misuse of funds;

    H. whereas, transparency and accountability are fundamental principles of the Union’s democratic legitimacy, as per Article 10(3) of the TEU, ensuring public trust in the institutions of the European Union, particularly in contexts involving major public health challenges and substantial financial commitments;

    I. whereas, its Committee on Legal Affairs, on 23 April 2025, unanimously adopted a non-binding opinion rejecting the European Commission’s use of Article 122 TFEU as the legal basis for the proposal for a Regulation establishing the Security Action for Europe (SAFE), a EUR 150 billion defence financing initiative;

    J. whereas the opinion of the Committee on Legal Affairs asserts that the Commission’s invocation of Article 122 TFEU lacks a valid emergency justification, in view of the fact that the provision is intended for short-term measures addressing immediate crises, not for long-term defence investments;

    K. whereas serious concerns have been raised regarding the Commission’s unlawful interference in elections in Member States such as Romania and Germany through a distorted application of Regulation (EU) 2022/2065 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 October 2022 on a Single Market For Digital Services and amending Directive 2000/31/EC (Digital Services Act)[3], which is intended to protect consumers but has been misused to justify vote restrictions and election annulments;

    1. Concludes that the Commission led by President Ursula von der Leyen no longer commands the confidence of Parliament to uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and good governance essential to a democratic Union;

    2. Concludes that the Commission’s unlawful interference in Member States’ elections, via a misapplication of the Digital Services Act, represents a serious breach of its mandate to uphold democratic principles and respect national sovereignty;

    3. Notes that the Commission’s abusive use of Article 122 TFEU as the legal basis for the SAFE Regulation, a EUR 150 billion defence financing initiative, constitutes a serious breach of competence and a distortion of the article’s intended purpose, which is reserved for economic emergency situations;

    4. Considers that this procedural abuse undermines trust in the Union’s institutions and threatens the integrity of the Union’s legal framework;

    5. Calls on the Commission to resign due to repeated failures to ensure transparency and to its persistent disregard for democratic oversight and the rule of law within the Union;

    6. Instructs its President to forward this motion of censure to the President of the Council and the President of the Commission and to notify them of the result of the vote on it in plenary.

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Implementation of emergency communication systems – E-002572/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002572/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Pascal Arimont (PPE), Liesbet Sommen (PPE), Željana Zovko (PPE), Andrzej Buła (PPE), Lena Düpont (PPE), Joachim Streit (Renew), Hélder Sousa Silva (PPE), Olivier Chastel (Renew), Paulo Do Nascimento Cabral (PPE), Grégory Allione (Renew)

    The preparedness union strategy stresses the need to strengthen Europe’s crisis resilience through, among other factors, more effective public warning systems. New strategies will only add value if they are implemented by the Member States. Almost five years after the deadline for implementation, eight Member States have not yet fulfilled the EU requirements laid down in the European Electronic Communications Code (EECC) to improve safety during emergencies.

    – Article 109 EECC required Member States to implement advanced caller location by December 2020. Poland, Cyprus and Malta still have not done so.

    – Article 110 EECC required Member States to implement a mobile-based public warning system by June 2022. Ireland, Slovakia, Cyprus, Slovenia, Finland, Latvia and Italy have not implemented such a system.

    Both technologies play a critical role in improving public safety by helping to quickly locate people in need and by allowing civil protection authorities to send people warnings about imminent threats.

    • 1.Does the Commission agree that advanced caller location and mobile-based public warning systems improve public safety and societal resilience?
    • 2.Will the Commission initiate proceedings against the Member States that have not fulfilled their obligations under Articles 109 and 110 EECC?
    • 3.If not, how will the Commission ensure that its future preparedness laws will be implemented effectively if Member States face no consequences for non-compliance?

    Submitted: 25.6.2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION OF CENSURE ON THE COMMISSION MOTION OF CENSURE ON THE COMMISSION – B10-0319/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    pursuant to Rule 131 of the Rules of Procedure

    Gheorghe Piperea, Adrian‑George Axinia, Claudiu‑Richard Târziu, Georgiana Teodorescu, Şerban Dimitrie Sturdza, Fidias Panayiotou, Daniel Obajtek, Ivan David, Patryk Jaki, Zsuzsanna Borvendég, Fernand Kartheiser, Nikolaos Anadiotis, Volker Schnurrbusch, Katarína Roth Neveďalová, Irmhild Boßdorf, Virginie Joron, Ondřej Dostál, Cristian Terheş, Christine Anderson, António Tânger Corrêa, Emmanouil Fragkos, Milan Mazurek, Alexander Jungbluth, Siegbert Frank Droese, Petar Volgin, Rada Laykova, Stanislav Stoyanov, Arno Bausemer, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Bogdan Rzońca, Milan Uhrík, Mary Khan, Tomasz Froelich, Hans Neuhoff, Alexander Sell, René Aust, Petr Bystron, Jacek Ozdoba, Galato Alexandraki, Kosma Złotowski, Waldemar Buda, Tobiasz Bocheński, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Marlena Maląg, Mariusz Kamiński, Dominik Tarczyński, Anna Zalewska, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Maciej Wąsik, Michał Dworczyk, Alvise Pérez, Luis‑Vicențiu Lazarus, Erik Kaliňák, Judita Laššáková, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Ewa Zajączkowska‑Hernik, Jaak Madison, Anja Arndt, Marcin Sypniewski, Markus Buchheit, Filip Turek, Friedrich Pürner, Kateřina Konečná, Ľuboš Blaha, Thierry Mariani, Jan‑Peter Warnke, Thomas Geisel, Branislav Ondruš, Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă, Monika Beňová, Marc Jongen, Nikola Bartůšek, Grzegorz Braun, Sarah Knafo, Petras Gražulis, Piotr Müller, Gerald Hauser

    B10‑0319/2025

    Motion of censure on the Commission by the European Parliament

    (2025/2140(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to Article 17(8) of the Treaty on European Union (TEU), Article 234 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) and Article 106a of the Euratom Treaty,

    – having regard to the request submitted under Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 2001 regarding public access to European Parliament, Council and Commission documents[1] by Matina Stevi, a journalist employed by The New York Times, seeking access to all text messages exchanged between President Ursula von der Leyen and Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla between 1 January 2021 and 11 May 2022,

    – having regard to the Commission’s refusal of this request on the grounds that it does not possess the requested documents,

    – having regard to the judgment of the General Court of 14 May 2025, in Case T-36/23 Stevi – The New York Times / Commission[2], which found that the Commission has not given a plausible explanation to justify the non- possession of the requested documents concerning its dealings with Pfizer/BioNTech in the procurement of COVID-19 vaccines and which clarified that the Commission’s duty of transparency is fundamental and that refusal to disclose documents must be strictly justified with compelling reasons,

    – having regard to Article 10(3) TEU, which guarantees the right of citizens to participate in the democratic life of the Union and calls for decisions to be taken openly and as closely as possible to the citizen,

    – having regard to Rule 131 of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) opened an investigation in 2022 into the European Commission’s conduct in the negotiation and conclusion of COVID-19 vaccine procurement contracts with Pfizer, which remains ongoing as of 2025 and raises credible concerns regarding potential legal and ethical breaches, as well as potential irregularities in the management of Union financial resources;

    B. whereas the General Court of the European Union, in its order of 5 October 2023 in Case T- 36/23, Stevi – The New York Times/ Commission, ruled that the Commission had failed to provide legally sufficient justification for its refusal to disclose the requested documents related to the Pfizer vaccine negotiations;

    C. whereas the Commission contravened its obligations under Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001 on public access to documents and violated the principles of transparency, good administration, and institutional accountability stipulated in the Treaties;

    D. whereas the Commission allocated EUR 35 billion in public funds for COVID-19 vaccines, yet failed to ensure transparency and accountability, especially as EUR 4 billion worth of doses remained unused, raising serious concerns over financial oversight and administrative failure;

    E. whereas the General Court, in its judgment of 14 May 2025, annulled the European Commission’s decision to deny access to text messages between Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla, exchanged between 1 January 2021 and 11 May 2022, concerning the procurement of COVID-19 vaccines;

    F. whereas the Court of Auditors, in its Special Report No. 22/2024 adopted on 26 September 2024, identified serious shortcomings in the implementation of the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), including insufficient linkages between disbursed funds and actual costs, weak verification mechanisms, risks of double funding, and delays in achieving investment targets, raising significant concerns over the Commission’s oversight of one of the largest post-COVID financial instruments;

    G. whereas the Court of Auditors has pointed out that the lack of robust controls and the reliance on self-reporting by Member States increase the risk of ‘double funding’, a situation in which the same actions may be financed multiple times, leading to inefficiencies and potential misuse of funds;

    H. whereas, transparency and accountability are fundamental principles of the Union’s democratic legitimacy, as per Article 10(3) of the TEU, ensuring public trust in the institutions of the European Union, particularly in contexts involving major public health challenges and substantial financial commitments;

    I. whereas, its Committee on Legal Affairs, on 23 April 2025, unanimously adopted a non-binding opinion rejecting the European Commission’s use of Article 122 TFEU as the legal basis for the proposal for a Regulation establishing the Security Action for Europe (SAFE), a EUR 150 billion defence financing initiative;

    J. whereas the opinion of the Committee on Legal Affairs asserts that the Commission’s invocation of Article 122 TFEU lacks a valid emergency justification, in view of the fact that the provision is intended for short-term measures addressing immediate crises, not for long-term defence investments;

    K. whereas serious concerns have been raised regarding the Commission’s unlawful interference in elections in Member States such as Romania and Germany through a distorted application of Regulation (EU) 2022/2065 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 October 2022 on a Single Market For Digital Services and amending Directive 2000/31/EC (Digital Services Act)[3], which is intended to protect consumers but has been misused to justify vote restrictions and election annulments;

    1. Concludes that the Commission led by President Ursula von der Leyen no longer commands the confidence of Parliament to uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and good governance essential to a democratic Union;

    2. Concludes that the Commission’s unlawful interference in Member States’ elections, via a misapplication of the Digital Services Act, represents a serious breach of its mandate to uphold democratic principles and respect national sovereignty;

    3. Notes that the Commission’s abusive use of Article 122 TFEU as the legal basis for the SAFE Regulation, a EUR 150 billion defence financing initiative, constitutes a serious breach of competence and a distortion of the article’s intended purpose, which is reserved for economic emergency situations;

    4. Considers that this procedural abuse undermines trust in the Union’s institutions and threatens the integrity of the Union’s legal framework;

    5. Calls on the Commission to resign due to repeated failures to ensure transparency and to its persistent disregard for democratic oversight and the rule of law within the Union;

    6. Instructs its President to forward this motion of censure to the President of the Council and the President of the Commission and to notify them of the result of the vote on it in plenary.

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AMENDMENTS 001-002 – REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Austria, Poland, Czechia, Slovakia and Moldova relating to floods occurred in September 2024 and Bosnia and Herzegovina relating to floods occurred in October 2024 – A10-0114/2025(001-002)

    Source: European Parliament

    AMENDMENTS 001-002
    REPORT
    on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Austria, Poland, Czechia, Slovakia and Moldova relating to floods occurred in September 2024 and Bosnia and Herzegovina relating to floods occurred in October 2024
    (COM(2025)0250 – C10-0102/2025 – 2025/0138(BUD))
    Committee on Budgets
    Rapporteur: Andrzej Halicki

    Source : © European Union, 2025 – EP

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Four North Koreans Charged in Nearly $1 Million Cryptocurrency Theft Scheme

    Source: US FBI

    ATLANTA – Four North Korean nationals, Kim Kwang Jin (김관진), Kang Tae Bok (강태복), Jong Pong Ju (정봉주), and Chang Nam Il (창남일), have been charged in a five-count wire fraud and money laundering indictment arising from a scheme to be hired as remote IT workers and then steal and launder over $900,000 in virtual currency.

    “The defendants used fake and stolen personal identities to conceal their North Korean nationality, pose as remote IT workers, and exploit their victims’ trust to steal hundreds of thousands of dollars,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “This indictment highlights the unique threat North Korea poses to companies that hire remote IT workers and underscores our resolve to prosecute any actor, in the United States or abroad, who steals from Georgia businesses.”

    “These schemes target and steal from U.S. companies and are designed to evade sanctions and fund the North Korean regime’s illicit programs, including its weapons programs,” said John A. Eisenberg, Assistant Attorney General for the Department’s National Security Division. “The Justice Department, along with our law enforcement, private sector, and international partners, will persistently pursue and dismantle these cyber-enabled revenue generation networks.”

    “North Korean operatives used false identities to infiltrate companies and steal digital assets to fund their regime,” said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The FBI is committed to exposing these threats and protecting U.S. businesses from nation-state cybercrime.”

    According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the indictment, and other information presented in court: To generate revenue for the regime, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (“North Korea” or “DPRK”) dispatches thousands of skilled IT workers around the world to deceive and infiltrate American companies. In October 2019, the defendants traveled to the United Arab Emirates on North Korean documents and worked there as a team. In approximately December 2020 and May 2021, respectively, Kim Kwang Jin (using victim P.S.’s stolen identity) and Jong Pong Ju (using the alias “Bryan Cho”) were hired as developers by an Atlanta, Georgia-based blockchain research and development company and a Serbian virtual token company. Both defendants concealed their North Korean identities from their employers by providing false identification documents containing a mix of stolen and fraudulent identity information. Neither company would have hired Kim Kwang Jin or Jong Pong Ju had it known the defendants were North Korean citizens. Later, on a recommendation from Jong Pong Ju, the Serbian company hired “Peter Xiao,” who in fact was Chang Nam Il.

    After gaining their employers’ trust, Kim Kwang Jin and Jong Pong Ju were assigned projects that provided them access to their employers’ virtual currency assets. In February 2022, Jong Pong Ju used that access to steal virtual currency then worth approximately $175,000. In March 2022, Kim Kwang Jin stole virtual currency then worth approximately $740,000 by modifying the source code of two of his employer’s smart contracts.

    To launder the funds after the thefts, Kim Kwang Jin and Jong Pong Ju used a virtual currency mixer and then transferred the funds to virtual currency exchange accounts controlled by defendants Kang Tae Bok and Chang Nam Il but held in the names of aliases.  The accounts were opened using fraudulent Malaysian identification documents.

    Kim Kwang Jin (김관진), Kang Tae Bok (강태복), Jong Pong Ju (정봉주), and Chang Nam Il (창남일) were indicted by a federal grand jury seated in the Northern District of Georgia on June 24, 2025.

    Members of the public are reminded that the indictment only contains charges.  The defendants are presumed innocent of the charges, and the government bears the burden to prove the defendants’ guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

    This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is part of the Department of Justice’s DPRK RevGen: Domestic Enabler Initiative. Under the Initiative, launched by the National Security Division and FBI Cyber and Counterintelligence Divisions in March 2024, federal prosecutors and agents prioritize high-impact, strategic, and unified enforcement and disruption operations targeting the DPRK’s illicit revenue generation efforts and the U.S.-based enablers of those efforts.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Samir Kaushal and Alex R. Sistla, and Trial Attorney Jacques Singer-Emery of the National Security Division’s National Security Cyber Section, are prosecuting the case.

    For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6185.  The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Report by the Head of OSCE Mission to Montenegro: UK statement to the OSCE, July 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Report by the Head of OSCE Mission to Montenegro: UK statement to the OSCE, July 2025

    UK Chargé d’Affaires, Deputy Ambassador James Ford, underlines the UK’s full support for Montenegro’s Euro-Atlantic integration and welcomes the Mission’s work in support of the government’s national strategic objectives.

    Thank you, Madam Chair.

    Firstly, I would like to welcome Ambassador Haukaas to the Permanent Council for the first time as Head of Mission. Thank you, Ambassador, for the work of your team over the last year, and for this report.

    Madam Chair, the United Kingdom continues to fully support Montenegro’s Euro-Atlantic integration. We recognise the progress on legislative reforms approved by Montenegro’s parliament during the reporting period, and the positive interim benchmark assessment from the European Commission. The UK continues to strongly support Montenegro’s reform agenda. This was something UK Special Envoy to the Western Balkans Dame Karen Pierce underlined during her recent visit to Podgorica, which included signing a Strategic Partnership with Foreign Minister Ibrahimovic, enhancing UK-Montenegro cooperation on priority issues.

    The UK positively notes the Mission’s work in support of the government’s national strategic objectives, in line with the Mission’s mandate and OSCE commitments and principles. The Mission’s focus also combines well with the UK’s own engagement in support of reforms in Montenegro.

    In particular, we commend the Mission’s continued cooperation with Montenegro’s parliament on strengthening institutional capacity and the skills of parliamentary staff. We support your continued focus on electoral reform, including on voter education ahead of elections in April. And we welcome the Mission’s ongoing engagement in combatting serious and organised crime and corruption, including through training to law enforcement agencies on specialised investigative methods and forensics.

    Ambassador Haukaas, we also particularly commend the Mission’s continued focus on gender, including your support to the Gender Equality Committee in drafting a new gender action plan for Montenegro’s Parliament.

    Madam Chair, OSCE field operations continue to deliver excellent work despite increasingly constrained funding. It is vital for the work of all OSCE structures that participating States agree a Unified Budget for 2025 and beyond. The continued non-agreement of budgets makes it hugely challenging for field missions to deliver their mandates. We urge all participating States to engage constructively with budget proposals and ensure all OSCE structures are adequately funded.

    Thank you again, Ambassador Haukaas, for your leadership of the OSCE Mission to Montenegro, and I wish you continued success in the role.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 3 July 2025 News release Readout on WHO participation in global nuclear emergency exercise

    Source: World Health Organisation

    On 25 June, the World Health Organization (WHO) concluded its participation in a 36-hour nuclear emergency exercise organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

    The exercise was part of the IAEA’s Level 3 Convention Exercise (ConvEx-3), the highest and most complex level of its emergency exercises. These large-scale exercises are conducted every three to five years to test emergency preparedness and response capacities and identify areas in need of improvement. The last ConvEx-3 exercise took place in 2021 in cooperation with the United Arab Emirates.

    The exercise involved more than 75 countries and 10 international organizations and was based on a simulated accident at a nuclear power plant in Romania, resulting in the release of significant amounts of radioactive material. Participating countries and organizations exchanged information in real time, assessed evolving risks, coordinated communications, and decided on appropriate protective actions, including the medical response.

    As part of the simulation, WHO set up an Incident Management Support Team composed of experts from country, regional and headquarters offices. The WHO teams liaised with national authorities to monitor the public health impact, developed public health messages on protective actions, and provided guidance on mental health support for affected communities and emergency responders.

    New elements this year included the close coordination of protective measures by neighbouring countries Bulgaria and the Republic of Moldova, the deployment of international assistance missions and the additional challenge of cybersecurity threats. An expanded social media simulator was used to test crisis communication strategies.

    By simulating high-risk cross-border nuclear emergencies, these exercises test existing structures and technical readiness, help build trust and strengthen a coordinated global response. WHO’s ongoing work to strengthen radiation protection of the public, patients and workers worldwide includes providing Member States with evidence-based guidance, tools and technical advice on public health issues related to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation.

    Following the exercise, the IAEA will compile and publish a detailed review of best practices and areas for improvement. WHO will review the lessons learned and adjust processes accordingly.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 3 July 2025 News release Readout on WHO participation in global nuclear emergency exercise

    Source: World Health Organisation

    On 25 June, the World Health Organization (WHO) concluded its participation in a 36-hour nuclear emergency exercise organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

    The exercise was part of the IAEA’s Level 3 Convention Exercise (ConvEx-3), the highest and most complex level of its emergency exercises. These large-scale exercises are conducted every three to five years to test emergency preparedness and response capacities and identify areas in need of improvement. The last ConvEx-3 exercise took place in 2021 in cooperation with the United Arab Emirates.

    The exercise involved more than 75 countries and 10 international organizations and was based on a simulated accident at a nuclear power plant in Romania, resulting in the release of significant amounts of radioactive material. Participating countries and organizations exchanged information in real time, assessed evolving risks, coordinated communications, and decided on appropriate protective actions, including the medical response.

    As part of the simulation, WHO set up an Incident Management Support Team composed of experts from country, regional and headquarters offices. The WHO teams liaised with national authorities to monitor the public health impact, developed public health messages on protective actions, and provided guidance on mental health support for affected communities and emergency responders.

    New elements this year included the close coordination of protective measures by neighbouring countries Bulgaria and the Republic of Moldova, the deployment of international assistance missions and the additional challenge of cybersecurity threats. An expanded social media simulator was used to test crisis communication strategies.

    By simulating high-risk cross-border nuclear emergencies, these exercises test existing structures and technical readiness, help build trust and strengthen a coordinated global response. WHO’s ongoing work to strengthen radiation protection of the public, patients and workers worldwide includes providing Member States with evidence-based guidance, tools and technical advice on public health issues related to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation.

    Following the exercise, the IAEA will compile and publish a detailed review of best practices and areas for improvement. WHO will review the lessons learned and adjust processes accordingly.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 3 July 2025 News release Readout on WHO participation in global nuclear emergency exercise

    Source: World Health Organisation

    On 25 June, the World Health Organization (WHO) concluded its participation in a 36-hour nuclear emergency exercise organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

    The exercise was part of the IAEA’s Level 3 Convention Exercise (ConvEx-3), the highest and most complex level of its emergency exercises. These large-scale exercises are conducted every three to five years to test emergency preparedness and response capacities and identify areas in need of improvement. The last ConvEx-3 exercise took place in 2021 in cooperation with the United Arab Emirates.

    The exercise involved more than 75 countries and 10 international organizations and was based on a simulated accident at a nuclear power plant in Romania, resulting in the release of significant amounts of radioactive material. Participating countries and organizations exchanged information in real time, assessed evolving risks, coordinated communications, and decided on appropriate protective actions, including the medical response.

    As part of the simulation, WHO set up an Incident Management Support Team composed of experts from country, regional and headquarters offices. The WHO teams liaised with national authorities to monitor the public health impact, developed public health messages on protective actions, and provided guidance on mental health support for affected communities and emergency responders.

    New elements this year included the close coordination of protective measures by neighbouring countries Bulgaria and the Republic of Moldova, the deployment of international assistance missions and the additional challenge of cybersecurity threats. An expanded social media simulator was used to test crisis communication strategies.

    By simulating high-risk cross-border nuclear emergencies, these exercises test existing structures and technical readiness, help build trust and strengthen a coordinated global response. WHO’s ongoing work to strengthen radiation protection of the public, patients and workers worldwide includes providing Member States with evidence-based guidance, tools and technical advice on public health issues related to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation.

    Following the exercise, the IAEA will compile and publish a detailed review of best practices and areas for improvement. WHO will review the lessons learned and adjust processes accordingly.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: BSTDB Supports Inclusive and Sustainable Growth in Moldova

    Source: Black Sea Trade and Development Bank

    Press Release | 03-Jul-2025

    Loan to support micro and small enterprises, green investments, and women-led businesses

    In a move to boost inclusive and sustainable development across Moldova, the Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB) has extended a EUR 3 million Combined MSME, Green and Gender Equality Credit Line to Prime Capital, BSTDB existing partner since 2021. The loan will further deepen the partnership, including by diversification of use of proceeds to facilitate access to finance for important economic purposes.  

    BSTDB financing will strengthen Prime Capital’s capacity to support micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs)—a backbone of the Moldovan economy and will also target green investments and women-led businesses, areas that are increasingly vital for long-term resilience and social equity.

    The funds will be channeled into Prime Capital’s dedicated programmes that focus on energy efficiency and women in business, helping scale up initiatives that are already making an impact at domestic level. By strengthening these targeted initiatives, the BSTDB contributes to the broader goals of climate resilience, social equity, and regional development.

    Commenting on the deal, Dr. Serhat Köksal, President, said: “This financing reflects our strong commitment to support micro, small and medium entrepreneurs, fostering greater opportunities for women-led businesses, and accelerating the green transition. By partnering with Prime Capital, we are helping ensure that capital reaches those who can drive inclusive and sustainable growth in Moldova and bolster economic resilience across the Black Sea Region.”

    “We are proud to strengthen our partnership with the Black Sea Trade and Development Bank through this expanded facility, which will help us deliver on our mission to empower Moldova’s entrepreneurs—especially women and those championing green innovation. This funding is not only timely but also strategic, as it enables us to extend credit to areas with the greatest transformative potential: MSMEs, sustainable energy, and gender-inclusive business growth. By aligning with BSTDB’s regional development goals, we are helping build a more resilient, inclusive, and future-ready Moldovan economy.” – said Carmina Vicol, CEO of Prime Capital.

     

    OCN Prime Capital SRL is one of the leading microfinance companies in Moldova. As of end-September 2024, Prime Capital reported total assets of USD 21.7 million and total equity of USD 14.3 million with capitalization ratio of 66%. Prime Capital is the 11th largest microfinance company in Moldova (out of 118 non-bank financial institutions). The Company’s head office and microlending office are based in Chisinau, two branches are located in the north and south of the country and it has 52 employees.

     

    The Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB) is an international financial institution established by Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Georgia, Greece, Moldova, Romania, Russia, Türkiye, and Ukraine. The BSTDB headquarters are in Thessaloniki, Greece. BSTDB supports economic development and regional cooperation by providing loans, credit lines, equity and guarantees for projects and trade financing in the public and private sectors in its member countries. The authorized capital of the Bank is EUR 3.45 billion. For information on BSTDB, visit www.bstdb.org.

     

    Contact: Haroula Christodoulou

    : @BSTDB

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: BSTDB Supports Inclusive and Sustainable Growth in Moldova

    Source: Black Sea Trade and Development Bank

    Press Release | 03-Jul-2025

    Loan to support micro and small enterprises, green investments, and women-led businesses

    In a move to boost inclusive and sustainable development across Moldova, the Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB) has extended a EUR 3 million Combined MSME, Green and Gender Equality Credit Line to Prime Capital, BSTDB existing partner since 2021. The loan will further deepen the partnership, including by diversification of use of proceeds to facilitate access to finance for important economic purposes.  

    BSTDB financing will strengthen Prime Capital’s capacity to support micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs)—a backbone of the Moldovan economy and will also target green investments and women-led businesses, areas that are increasingly vital for long-term resilience and social equity.

    The funds will be channeled into Prime Capital’s dedicated programmes that focus on energy efficiency and women in business, helping scale up initiatives that are already making an impact at domestic level. By strengthening these targeted initiatives, the BSTDB contributes to the broader goals of climate resilience, social equity, and regional development.

    Commenting on the deal, Dr. Serhat Köksal, President, said: “This financing reflects our strong commitment to support micro, small and medium entrepreneurs, fostering greater opportunities for women-led businesses, and accelerating the green transition. By partnering with Prime Capital, we are helping ensure that capital reaches those who can drive inclusive and sustainable growth in Moldova and bolster economic resilience across the Black Sea Region.”

    “We are proud to strengthen our partnership with the Black Sea Trade and Development Bank through this expanded facility, which will help us deliver on our mission to empower Moldova’s entrepreneurs—especially women and those championing green innovation. This funding is not only timely but also strategic, as it enables us to extend credit to areas with the greatest transformative potential: MSMEs, sustainable energy, and gender-inclusive business growth. By aligning with BSTDB’s regional development goals, we are helping build a more resilient, inclusive, and future-ready Moldovan economy.” – said Carmina Vicol, CEO of Prime Capital.

     

    OCN Prime Capital SRL is one of the leading microfinance companies in Moldova. As of end-September 2024, Prime Capital reported total assets of USD 21.7 million and total equity of USD 14.3 million with capitalization ratio of 66%. Prime Capital is the 11th largest microfinance company in Moldova (out of 118 non-bank financial institutions). The Company’s head office and microlending office are based in Chisinau, two branches are located in the north and south of the country and it has 52 employees.

     

    The Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB) is an international financial institution established by Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Georgia, Greece, Moldova, Romania, Russia, Türkiye, and Ukraine. The BSTDB headquarters are in Thessaloniki, Greece. BSTDB supports economic development and regional cooperation by providing loans, credit lines, equity and guarantees for projects and trade financing in the public and private sectors in its member countries. The authorized capital of the Bank is EUR 3.45 billion. For information on BSTDB, visit www.bstdb.org.

     

    Contact: Haroula Christodoulou

    : @BSTDB

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: ‘Let Memory of Srebrenica Strengthen Our Resolve’, Serve as Call to Vigilance, Action, Says Secretary-General, in Message for World Day

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    Following is UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ message for the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica, observed on 11 July:

    Today marks the thirtieth anniversary of the genocide in Srebrenica — the worst atrocity on European soil since the Second World War.

    In July 1995, more than 8,000 Bosnian Muslim men and boys were systematically murdered.  Thousands of women, children and older persons were forcibly displaced, their lives forever shattered.  The intention was the elimination of Bosnian Muslims in Srebrenica.

    We remember the victims and honour the courage of the survivors — including the Mothers of Srebrenica, whose tireless pursuit of justice ensured that the genocide was recognized in both law and history.

    This day is not only a moment of reflection.  It is a call to vigilance and action.

    At a time when hate speech, denial and division are gaining ground, we must stand firm for truth and justice.  We must detect early warning signs and respond before violence takes hold.  We must respect international law, defend human rights, uphold the dignity of every individual, and invest in reconciliation and peace.

    Let the memory of Srebrenica strengthen our resolve, so that “never again” truly means never again.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Switzerland shock France to reach last 8 at FIBA U19 WC

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

    Host nation Switzerland upset basketball powerhouse France 86-79 in overtime in the Round of 16 on Wednesday, advancing to the quarterfinals in its first-ever appearance at the 2025 FIBA U19 World Cup.

    France, ranked No. 3 in the world, had finished third, second, and second in the past three editions of the tournament and was considered one of the top favorites this year. Switzerland, ranked 60th in the FIBA World Rankings for boys, had never competed in a FIBA U19 World Cup before 2025.

    France took the first quarter 24-13, and both teams struggled offensively in the second, with France entering halftime holding a 12-point lead.

    With five minutes, 34 seconds left in regulation, France led 66-54, but Switzerland responded with a 12-0 run to tie the game at 66-66 by the end of the fourth quarter. The Swiss maintained momentum in overtime, closing out the upset with a seven-point advantage.

    Dayan Nessah posted 22 points and 15 rebounds for Switzerland, while teammate Oliver Sassella scored a game-high 25 points.

    Switzerland will face New Zealand in the quarterfinals after the Kiwis defeated China 99-86.

    In other Round of 16 action, the United States routed Jordan 140-67, Germany beat Serbia 92-83, Israel edged Cameroon 86-82, Australia downed the Dominican Republic 106-96, Slovenia slipped past Argentina 81-80, and Canada cruised past Mali 100-75. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • Normality returns to Wimbledon as Alcaraz and Sabalenka ease through

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Carlos Alcaraz, Aryna Sabalenka and the end of London’s tropical heatwave ensured that a sense of normality returned to the lawns of Wimbledon on Wednesday after two sweat-soaked days of shocks, although Jasmine Paolini’s exit meant the surprises did not end.

    A stream of big names including Coco Gauff, Jessica Pegula, Alexander Zverev and Daniil Medvedev crashed and burned in the oven-like temperatures of the first round.

    So when Alcaraz walked on Centre Court to continue his bid for a third successive Wimbledon title against British qualifier Oliver Tarvet, the thought surely lurked somewhere in his mind that he could be the fall-guy in the event’s greatest upset.

    The 22-year-old second seed was not at his best but after saving three break points in a nervy first service game against a college student ranked 733rd in the world, he asserted his authority to win 6-1 6-4 6-4.

    Earlier on Centre Court, women’s top seed Sabalenka battled to a 7-6(4) 6-4 win against Czech Marie Bouzkova.

    “Honestly, it is sad to see so many upsets in the tournament, in both draws, women’s and men’s,” said Sabalenka, who is bidding for her first Wimbledon title.

    “I’m just trying to focus on myself… I hope there are no more upsets in this tournament.”

    That was not to be, as last year’s runner-up Paolini joined the mass exodus of fancied players when she crashed out 4-6 6-4 6-4 against Russian Kamilla Rakhimova.

    However, Australian Open champion Madison Keys, the sixth seed, made it safely into round three by beating Olga Danilovic 6-4 6-2 while unseeded four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka eased past Czech doubles specialist Katerina Siniakova 6-3 6-2.

    Lower temperatures did not necessarily mean more comfortable outings as world number 12 Frances Tiafoe became the 14th of the 32 men’s seeds to fall, losing 4-6 6-4 6-3 7-5 against Cameron Norrie, one of seven Britons in singles action on day three.

    The American was joined later on by Czech 23rd seed Jiri Lehecka, last month’s Queen’s Club Championships runner-up, who fell 7-6(4) 6-1 7-5 to Italian Mattia Bellucci.

    HOME CHARGE

    Ashlyn Krueger, the American 31st seed, was then beaten 7-6(4) 6-4 by Russian Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, ensuring 15 of the 32 women’s seeds also went out of the tournament.

    Sonay Kartal led the home charge by defeating Bulgaria’s Viktoriya Tomova 6-2 6-2 to book her place in the last 32 for the second year in succession while the nation’s big hope Emma Raducanu got past 2023 champion Marketa Vondrousova 6-3 6-3.

    There was disappointment for Britain’s Katie Boulter, who served 14 double faults as she crashed 6-7(9) 6-2 6-1 to 101st-ranked Solana Sierra, the Argentine who lost in qualifying but has seized her lucky loser spot with both hands.

    Alcaraz, bidding to do the French Open-Wimbledon double for the second successive year, needed five sets to get past Italian veteran Fabio Fognini in the opening round and set up an intriguing clash with 21-year-old Tarvet.

    Tarvet, who plays on the U.S. collegiate circuit for the University of San Diego, said he believed he could beat anyone, even Alcaraz, after winning his Grand Slam debut match against fellow qualifier Leandro Riedi of Switzerland on Monday.

    He was clearly not overawed at sharing a court with a five-times major champion and had he taken any of the eight break points he earned in the first set it could have been closer.

    Alcaraz proved a step too far though as he moved through the gears when required to keep an eager Tarvet under control.

    Just as the Spaniard did in his first round when going to the aid of a female spectator suffering in the heat, Alcaraz again endeared himself to the Centre Court crowd.

    “First of all I have to give a big congratulations to Oliver, it’s his second match on the tour. I just loved his game to be honest, the level he played,” Alcaraz said.

    Play on courts without roofs was delayed for two hours by light morning rain but once the clouds rolled away the place to be for fans without showcourt tickets was Court 12 for Brazilian teenager Joao Fonseca’s match against American Jenson Brooksby.

    The 18-year-old is widely tipped as a future challenger to the domination of Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner and he showed why during a 6-2 5-7 6-2 6-4 win that was celebrated by a large contingent of exuberant Brazilians.

    Andrey Rublev, who suffered a bruising loss to Fonseca in the Australian Open first round earlier this year, battled past Lloyd Harris 6-7 6-4 7-6 6-3 before Taylor Fritz closed out the day with a 3-6 6-3 7-6(0) 4-6 6-3 win over Gabriel Diallo.

    -Reuters

  • Normality returns to Wimbledon as Alcaraz and Sabalenka ease through

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Carlos Alcaraz, Aryna Sabalenka and the end of London’s tropical heatwave ensured that a sense of normality returned to the lawns of Wimbledon on Wednesday after two sweat-soaked days of shocks, although Jasmine Paolini’s exit meant the surprises did not end.

    A stream of big names including Coco Gauff, Jessica Pegula, Alexander Zverev and Daniil Medvedev crashed and burned in the oven-like temperatures of the first round.

    So when Alcaraz walked on Centre Court to continue his bid for a third successive Wimbledon title against British qualifier Oliver Tarvet, the thought surely lurked somewhere in his mind that he could be the fall-guy in the event’s greatest upset.

    The 22-year-old second seed was not at his best but after saving three break points in a nervy first service game against a college student ranked 733rd in the world, he asserted his authority to win 6-1 6-4 6-4.

    Earlier on Centre Court, women’s top seed Sabalenka battled to a 7-6(4) 6-4 win against Czech Marie Bouzkova.

    “Honestly, it is sad to see so many upsets in the tournament, in both draws, women’s and men’s,” said Sabalenka, who is bidding for her first Wimbledon title.

    “I’m just trying to focus on myself… I hope there are no more upsets in this tournament.”

    That was not to be, as last year’s runner-up Paolini joined the mass exodus of fancied players when she crashed out 4-6 6-4 6-4 against Russian Kamilla Rakhimova.

    However, Australian Open champion Madison Keys, the sixth seed, made it safely into round three by beating Olga Danilovic 6-4 6-2 while unseeded four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka eased past Czech doubles specialist Katerina Siniakova 6-3 6-2.

    Lower temperatures did not necessarily mean more comfortable outings as world number 12 Frances Tiafoe became the 14th of the 32 men’s seeds to fall, losing 4-6 6-4 6-3 7-5 against Cameron Norrie, one of seven Britons in singles action on day three.

    The American was joined later on by Czech 23rd seed Jiri Lehecka, last month’s Queen’s Club Championships runner-up, who fell 7-6(4) 6-1 7-5 to Italian Mattia Bellucci.

    HOME CHARGE

    Ashlyn Krueger, the American 31st seed, was then beaten 7-6(4) 6-4 by Russian Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, ensuring 15 of the 32 women’s seeds also went out of the tournament.

    Sonay Kartal led the home charge by defeating Bulgaria’s Viktoriya Tomova 6-2 6-2 to book her place in the last 32 for the second year in succession while the nation’s big hope Emma Raducanu got past 2023 champion Marketa Vondrousova 6-3 6-3.

    There was disappointment for Britain’s Katie Boulter, who served 14 double faults as she crashed 6-7(9) 6-2 6-1 to 101st-ranked Solana Sierra, the Argentine who lost in qualifying but has seized her lucky loser spot with both hands.

    Alcaraz, bidding to do the French Open-Wimbledon double for the second successive year, needed five sets to get past Italian veteran Fabio Fognini in the opening round and set up an intriguing clash with 21-year-old Tarvet.

    Tarvet, who plays on the U.S. collegiate circuit for the University of San Diego, said he believed he could beat anyone, even Alcaraz, after winning his Grand Slam debut match against fellow qualifier Leandro Riedi of Switzerland on Monday.

    He was clearly not overawed at sharing a court with a five-times major champion and had he taken any of the eight break points he earned in the first set it could have been closer.

    Alcaraz proved a step too far though as he moved through the gears when required to keep an eager Tarvet under control.

    Just as the Spaniard did in his first round when going to the aid of a female spectator suffering in the heat, Alcaraz again endeared himself to the Centre Court crowd.

    “First of all I have to give a big congratulations to Oliver, it’s his second match on the tour. I just loved his game to be honest, the level he played,” Alcaraz said.

    Play on courts without roofs was delayed for two hours by light morning rain but once the clouds rolled away the place to be for fans without showcourt tickets was Court 12 for Brazilian teenager Joao Fonseca’s match against American Jenson Brooksby.

    The 18-year-old is widely tipped as a future challenger to the domination of Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner and he showed why during a 6-2 5-7 6-2 6-4 win that was celebrated by a large contingent of exuberant Brazilians.

    Andrey Rublev, who suffered a bruising loss to Fonseca in the Australian Open first round earlier this year, battled past Lloyd Harris 6-7 6-4 7-6 6-3 before Taylor Fritz closed out the day with a 3-6 6-3 7-6(0) 4-6 6-3 win over Gabriel Diallo.

    -Reuters

  • MIL-OSI Video: Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (video statements)

    International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica.
    The observance marks the 30-year anniversary of the 1995 genocide in Srebrenica.
    Co-organized by the United Nations Department of Global Communications, the Office of the Special Advisor for the Prevention of Genocide and the Permanent Mission of Bosnia and Herzegovina to the United Nations.

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Public procurement: when Brussels finances Turkish and Iranian companies – E-002575/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002575/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Virginie Joron (PfE)

    Some French people find it difficult to watch their taxes being used to pay for free motorways in Poland, trains in Spain or nursery assistants in Romania. For example, the Commission has earmarked EUR 1.5 billion for the Romanian border[1], EUR 419 million for railway infrastructure in Spain (Almeria)[2] and EUR 448 million for the training of nursery assistants in Romania[3].

    Brussels should ensure a European preference when awarding public contracts.

    In Spain, Romania and Greece, many EU public contracts are awarded or subcontracted to companies from non-EU countries that do not apply reciprocity or are not signatories to the GPA[4]. For example, EU taxpayers finance companies supplying pipes and water pipes manufactured in Türkiye (SMS), China and Iran (Hanyco).

    • 1.How does the Commission ascertain if products used for public contracts benefiting from EU subsidies are made in Europe or in a country with reciprocal access to public contracts?
    • 2.Why does the Commission not publish a list of the countries that have not offered reciprocal access to their public contracts in the last five years?[5]
    • 3.Will the Commission require tenders – regardless of the amount and percentage rule[6] – containing products from third countries that do not apply reciprocity to be excluded, whether or not those countries have signed the GPA?

    Submitted: 25.6.2025

    • [1] Border-Curtici-Simeria railway line. Total budget (2013-2023): €1 809 360 168.12; EU contribution: €1 537 956 142.91 (85 %), https://kohesio.ec.europa.eu/en/projects/Q3095706.
    • [2] Murcia-Almería railway line. Total budget: €523 966 300.00; EU contribution: €1 419 173 142.91 (80 %), https://kohesio.ec.europa.eu/en/projects/Q3159194.
    • [3] ‘Progress in the quality of alternative childcare’. EU contribution: €448 million out of a budget of €530 million, https://kohesio.ec.europa.eu/en/projects/Q3097484.
    • [4] WTO Agreement on Government Procurement, https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/gproc_e/memobs_e.htm.
    • [5] Article 86(2) of Directive 2014/25/EU (water, energy, transport and postal services), https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32014L0025.
    • [6] Article 85(2): any tender submitted may be rejected where the proportion of the products originating in third countries exceeds 50 % of the total value of the products.
    Last updated: 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Public procurement: when Brussels finances Turkish and Iranian companies – E-002575/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002575/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Virginie Joron (PfE)

    Some French people find it difficult to watch their taxes being used to pay for free motorways in Poland, trains in Spain or nursery assistants in Romania. For example, the Commission has earmarked EUR 1.5 billion for the Romanian border[1], EUR 419 million for railway infrastructure in Spain (Almeria)[2] and EUR 448 million for the training of nursery assistants in Romania[3].

    Brussels should ensure a European preference when awarding public contracts.

    In Spain, Romania and Greece, many EU public contracts are awarded or subcontracted to companies from non-EU countries that do not apply reciprocity or are not signatories to the GPA[4]. For example, EU taxpayers finance companies supplying pipes and water pipes manufactured in Türkiye (SMS), China and Iran (Hanyco).

    • 1.How does the Commission ascertain if products used for public contracts benefiting from EU subsidies are made in Europe or in a country with reciprocal access to public contracts?
    • 2.Why does the Commission not publish a list of the countries that have not offered reciprocal access to their public contracts in the last five years?[5]
    • 3.Will the Commission require tenders – regardless of the amount and percentage rule[6] – containing products from third countries that do not apply reciprocity to be excluded, whether or not those countries have signed the GPA?

    Submitted: 25.6.2025

    • [1] Border-Curtici-Simeria railway line. Total budget (2013-2023): €1 809 360 168.12; EU contribution: €1 537 956 142.91 (85 %), https://kohesio.ec.europa.eu/en/projects/Q3095706.
    • [2] Murcia-Almería railway line. Total budget: €523 966 300.00; EU contribution: €1 419 173 142.91 (80 %), https://kohesio.ec.europa.eu/en/projects/Q3159194.
    • [3] ‘Progress in the quality of alternative childcare’. EU contribution: €448 million out of a budget of €530 million, https://kohesio.ec.europa.eu/en/projects/Q3097484.
    • [4] WTO Agreement on Government Procurement, https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/gproc_e/memobs_e.htm.
    • [5] Article 86(2) of Directive 2014/25/EU (water, energy, transport and postal services), https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32014L0025.
    • [6] Article 85(2): any tender submitted may be rejected where the proportion of the products originating in third countries exceeds 50 % of the total value of the products.
    Last updated: 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Urgent issue: land grabbing as a part of Albania’s ‘Mountains Package’ at the expense of the country’s Greek ethnic minority – E-002556/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002556/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Galato Alexandraki (ECR)

    The Albanian Government is moving forward with a legislative framework – the ‘Mountains Package’ – which allows the transfer of state, community and private land parcels in mountainous areas to their supposed owners, who do not have property titles, through opaque procedures and actions raising serious suspicions of arbitrary confiscation of property. The first ‘investors’ will enjoy full tax exemption, while the areas directly affected include historical sites appertaining to the Greek ethnic minority, which is already under severe pressure, with low property recognition rates (only 10-30 %) and the continued plundering of community land.

    The European Commission has committed to ensuring respect for minority rights in the context of Albania’s accession negotiations.

    In view of this, can the Commission say:

    • 1.How does it assess the compatibility of this law with the European criteria for the protection of minorities and property rights?
    • 2.Does it intend to ask the Albanian Government to suspend or revise the ‘Mountains Package’?
    • 3.What steps can it take to ensure that the Greek ethnic minority’s community and private land is safeguarded, as well as transparency in the Albania’s land registry procedures?

    Submitted: 25.6.2025

    Last updated: 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – High wage inequalities in the European Union – E-002555/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002555/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Galato Alexandraki (ECR)

    Despite the European Union’s principle of convergence, average wages still vary enormously between the Member States. According to recent data from 2023, the average monthly full-time wage in the EU was around EUR 3 155, dropping to less than EUR 1 125 in Bulgaria and reaching EUR 6 755 in Luxembourg. And although these disparities become narrower when purchasing power standards (PPS) are taken into account, significant inequalities persist. Low wages in many Eastern and Southern European countries, such as Greece, limit people’s ability to make a decent living and increase brain drain. While the EU has adopted the Minimum Wages Directive, it is unclear whether there are effective tools to ensure real convergence of incomes in terms of quality of life. This issue directly concerns social cohesion and the sustainability of economies.

    In view of the above, can the Commission say:

    • 1.Is there a plan to reduce disparities in average wages between Member States, not only in absolute terms but also taking into account purchasing power standards (PPS)?
    • 2.Does it envisage further regulatory action or financial support so that the wages in the countries with the lowest salaries can actually approach the European average in real terms?

    Submitted: 25.6.2025

    Last updated: 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – High wage inequalities in the European Union – E-002555/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002555/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Galato Alexandraki (ECR)

    Despite the European Union’s principle of convergence, average wages still vary enormously between the Member States. According to recent data from 2023, the average monthly full-time wage in the EU was around EUR 3 155, dropping to less than EUR 1 125 in Bulgaria and reaching EUR 6 755 in Luxembourg. And although these disparities become narrower when purchasing power standards (PPS) are taken into account, significant inequalities persist. Low wages in many Eastern and Southern European countries, such as Greece, limit people’s ability to make a decent living and increase brain drain. While the EU has adopted the Minimum Wages Directive, it is unclear whether there are effective tools to ensure real convergence of incomes in terms of quality of life. This issue directly concerns social cohesion and the sustainability of economies.

    In view of the above, can the Commission say:

    • 1.Is there a plan to reduce disparities in average wages between Member States, not only in absolute terms but also taking into account purchasing power standards (PPS)?
    • 2.Does it envisage further regulatory action or financial support so that the wages in the countries with the lowest salaries can actually approach the European average in real terms?

    Submitted: 25.6.2025

    Last updated: 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – DNAT meeting – 26 June 2025 – Delegation for relations with the NATO Parliamentary Assembly

    Source: European Parliament

    At the meeting of the Delegation for relations with the NATO Parliamentary Assembly (DNAT) Members elected the following Vice-Chairs: Vasile DÎNCU, First Vice-Chair (S&D, Romania) and Alexandr VONDRA, Second Vice-Chair (ECR, Czechia).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Situation in Cernăuți (Chernivtsi), Ukraine – E-002545/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002545/2025
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă (NI)

    On Tuesday 17 June 2025, 20 young Ukrainians, some with their faces covered, physically assaulted several Romanian priests in Cernăuți Cathedral. One of the attackers had originally entered the church in a wheelchair, only to participate in the violent attack subsequently. According to reports, Father Pavel Pavlenco, one of the priests, who has eight children, was taken to A&E, while others also suffered serious injuries such as broken ribs, head wounds and kidney damage. The attackers then barricaded themselves in the cathedral and occasioned major damage. After the incident, members of the Romanian community – including priests – gathered peacefully to protest, but they were brutally dispersed, physically assaulted and exposed to tear gas.

    The Priests were assaulted, but Romanians have been discriminated against for years. They are not allowed to speak Romanian or to worship freely, and Romanian Orthodox churches have been shut down.

    Thus far, no official statement has been issued in response to what happened in Cernăuți.

    • 1.What is the Commission’s official stance on this incident?
    • 2.Can events such as this lead to Ukraine’s accession to the EU being put on hold until crimes against minorities, and in particular the Romanian minority, cease and respect for human rights in Ukraine is restored?

    Submitted: 25.6.2025

    Last updated: 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –