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  • MIL-OSI: Web3MEXC Announces CORN (CORN) Listing with Massive 149,000 USDT Prize Pool

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, announced the listing of CORN (CORN) on both spot and futures markets, scheduled for March 28, 2025 (UTC). The listing on MEXC will be accompanied by an exciting Airdrop+ rewards event totaling 149,000 USDT.

    CORN represents a next-generation blockchain solution built on Arbitrum Orbit, offering unprecedented scalability and efficiency for Bitcoin-centric applications. The project introduces groundbreaking features including Bitcorn (BTCN) as its gas token, the popCORN System for long-term incentives, and LayerZero technology for seamless cross-chain asset transfers. By supporting Stylus, CORN enables developers to create smart contracts using multiple programming languages, pushing the boundaries of blockchain innovation.

    To celebrate the CORN listing, MEXC will launch an extraordinary Airdrop+ event with a massive 149,000 USDT prize pool. The event, which will run from March 27 to April 6, 2025, will offer multiple opportunities to participate:
    Benefit 1: Deposit and share 80,000 USDT in Futures bonus (New user exclusive)
    Benefit 2: Futures Challenge — Trade to share 50,000 USDT in Futures bonus (For all users)
    Benefit 3: Invite new users and share 19,000 USDT in Futures (For all users)

    MEXC has established itself as an industry leader by consistently providing users with early access to promising Web3 projects. In 2024, MEXC introduced 2,376 new tokens, with 1,716 of those being initial listings. According to the latest TokenInsight report, MEXC leads the industry with the highest number of spot listings at 461 and the fastest listing speed. Additionally, the exchange consistently adds new tokens in bi-weekly cycles, showcasing its exceptional ability to quickly capture market trends.

    Looking ahead, MEXC will continue to enhance its platform by providing advantages such as low fees, deep liquidity, a wide selection of trending tokens, and daily airdrops, enabling traders to access high-potential projects early, receive generous rewards, and enjoy an optimal trading experience.

    For full event details and participation rules, visit the event page.

    About MEXC
    Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto.” Serving over 34 million users across 170+ countries, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, everyday airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding.
    MEXC Official Website｜ X ｜Telegram｜How to Sign Up on MEXC

    Risk Disclaimer:
    The information provided in this article about cryptocurrencies does not represent MEXC’s official stance or investment advice. Given the highly volatile nature of the cryptocurrency market, investors are encouraged to carefully evaluate market fluctuations, project fundamentals, and potential financial risks before making any trading decisions.

    Source

    Contact:
    Lucia Hu
    PR Manager
    lucia.hu@mexc.com

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

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/921c2e2c-14be-4fdf-87db-e3998190701a

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: GCIS hosts 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy activities 

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Thursday, March 27, 2025

    The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), in partnership with the Apartheid Museum and Gibela Rail Consortium, is today and tomorrow hosting activities to commemorate South Africa’s 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy.

    “This initiative by GCIS and various partners forms part of a year-long campaign launched in 2024, extending into 2025, to commemorate South Africa’s remarkable journey of democracy and freedom. The 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy campaign seeks to foster collective ownership of this milestone among all South Africans and sectors of society,” it said.

    This as it hosts a youth dialogue under the theme: “Youth and Economy” in partnership with the Apartheid Museum to solicit the views of young people from the Southern region of Gauteng on how they can participate in economic opportunities.

    Thursday’s dialogue is being held at the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg.

    In addition, a tour is set to be held at the Kwa Thema Business Park on Friday.

    “To promote the artisanship and the social responsibility initiatives of the Gibela Rail Consortium in Ekhurhuleni, a tour of the Gibela rail facilities and interaction with various artisans will conclude with a visit to a social investment project showcasing advancements in rail manufacturing and public transport.

    “The programme also aims to promote social cohesion, national identity and inclusivity, reflecting South Africa’s rich and diverse culture. It highlights the progress achieved since 1994 while acknowledging the challenges of the fourth decade of democracy,” it said. –SAnews.gov.za
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SA-EU relations flourishing

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    By Nomonde Mnukwa

    South Africa’s first democratic elections on 27 April 1994 signalled not only the end of the brutal system of apartheid, but also a change in the country’s international image.

    The country’s struggle for liberation and reconciliation has shaped its identity and global standing. South Africa has positioned itself as a champion of international solidarity.

    South Africa’s unique approach to global issues has found expression in the concept of Ubuntu. These concepts inform our approach to diplomacy and shape our vision of a better world for all.

    This philosophy translates into an approach to international relations that respects all nations, peoples, and cultures. It recognises that it is in our national interest to promote and support the positive development of others.

    As we celebrate our over 30 years of freedom and democracy, South Africa’s global repositioning can be seen with the strong strategic partnership with the European Union that is premised on values such as democracy, human rights and the rule of law.

    Immediately after his release from prison thirty-five years ago, President Nelson Mandela, our first democratic President, travelled to the European Parliament to receive the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought. This honorary award is the highest tribute given by the European Union (EU) to individuals who contributed to the fight for human rights.

    During this visit, the former president, who is affectionately known as Madiba addressed the European Parliament and thanked the European countries for their contribution towards our fight for freedom. He also called on them to support us as we set about rebuilding the country and reversing the legacy of apartheid, which continues to be felt up to this day.

    This visit marked the beginning of official relations between South Africa and the EU in pursuit of our national interests, especially to tackle pressing challenges we inherited under apartheid. In 1999 for instance, we became the first African country to sign a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the EU known as the South Africa-European Union (EU) Trade, Development and Cooperation Agreement (TDCA).

    In 2007 we further deepened our relations through the adoption of the South Africa – EU Strategic Partnership Joint Action Plan. The plan is essentially a roadmap for cooperation in various key areas such as trade, climate change, science and technology as well as regional and global issues.  

    The TDCA agreement has helped our country to integrate into the global economy and it established a Political Dialogue between South Africa and the EU at the Ministerial level. This high-level dialogue advances the EU-South Africa strategic partnership across key areas such as trade, energy, peace and security and multilateralism.

    We are pleased that as we celebrate 30 years of democracy and thirty-five years since Madiba’s release and visit to the EU Parliament, our relationship with the EU continues to flourish and is mutually beneficial. South Africa remains the EU’s key trade partner on the African Continent, and the EU as a bloc is South Africa’s largest trading partner.

    Total trade between South Africa and EU has increased by 44 percent over the past five years; recording an increase from R586 billion in 2019 to R846 billion in 2023. The EU accounts for 41 percent of total Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the country and over 2,000 EU companies operate in South Africa, supporting more than 500,000 direct and indirect jobs.

    To further discuss shared priorities and foster stronger ties between South Africa and EU, in February this year, we successfully hosted the 16th Ministerial Political Dialogue. The Dialogue was co-chaired by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola and Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission.

    During this dialogue, both parties reiterated their commitment to multilateralism, rules-based international order, and the centrality of the United Nations Charter. They agreed on the need to make the UN Security Council more representative, inclusive, transparent, efficient, democratic and accountable. They further discussed issues of trade and investment, along with greater mutual cooperation and reinforced bilateral relations between South Africa and the EU.

    The dialogue also served as preparatory meeting for the EU-South Africa Summit which was held in South Africa on 13 March 2025. Our national priorities of reducing poverty, unemployment and inequality underpin our work at the SA-EU Summit. In line with commitments in the National Development Plan we engage with our EU counterparts to further grow our economy and develop our society.

    The summit was also an opportunity to set new priorities for the Strategic Partnership, including in trade and investment, and to reinforce the shared values underpinning the partnership. During the summit, the EU announced a 4.7-billion-euro investment package to support mutually beneficial investment projects. The investment package covers areas such as critical raw mineral processing, green hydrogen, renewable energy, transport and digital infrastructure, local vaccine and pharmaceutical production, and resources for skills development.

    The two parties further agreed to launch negotiations towards a Clean Trade and Investment Partnership to support the development of cleaner value chains for raw materials and local beneficiation, renewable and low carbon energy, and clean technology. Both parties committed to work together to address existing challenges in trade in animal and plant products. South Africa committed to find a solution to facilitate the imports of poultry from disease-free areas in the European Union into South Africa.

    The Summit was also an opportunity for South Africa to influence international policies that could have an impact on our own economy. Both parties agreed to support a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace on conflicts around the globe including Ukraine, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Palestine. This includes a need to reform the UN Security Council.  

    Furthermore, the European Union expressed support for South Africa’s G20 Presidency in 2025, and our hosting of the G20 Summit at the end of the year. The EU also pledged to strengthen the G20 Compact with Africa.

    Government welcomes the visit by the EU leaders to the country and we are confident that the agreements signed will not only accelerate economic growth but will help South Africa eradicate the triple challenge of unemployment, poverty and inequality.

    *Nomonde Mnukwa is the Acting Director General of the GCIS

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SA-Ghana strengthen tourism partnerships

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has embarked on a special outreach programme to Ghana to strengthen tourism partnerships and promote cultural exchange between the two nations.

    As part of the outreach programme, taking place from 26 – 28 March, de Lille will engage the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts of Ghana, Abla-Dzifa Gomashie as well as the South Africa-Ghana Chamber of Commerce, tourism trade, key media and tourism stakeholders to showcase South Africa as an attractive leisure and MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) destination.

    The easing of visa regulations between the two countries in November 2023 was a progressive step that contributed to unlocking significant tourism potential. 

    It also marked a new chapter in strengthening tourism and trade, creating a seamless journey for both South Africans and Ghanaians to experience the beauty and diversity Ghana and South Africa have to offer. This development also opened doors for increased business, leisure and cultural exchange.

    “Ghana and the broader African continent are incredibly important markets for South Africa’s tourism sector. 

    “This visit reaffirms our dedication to deepening partnerships and unlocking growth opportunities through meaningful collaboration. Ghana has emerged as a standout performer, recording an exceptional 149.0% increase in tourist arrivals to South Africa in 2024 when compared to 2023. 

    “The number of Ghanaian visitors surged to 36 656, largely due to the introduction of a visa waiver in November 2023 coupled with the consistent marketing by South African Tourism, allowing citizens of both countries to travel to each other’s country visa-free for up to 90 days within a year,” the Minister said.

    Her visit holds added significance as it takes place in a year when South Africa proudly hosts the G20 Summit – a momentous occasion that highlights South Africa’s growing influence on the global stage and its commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships across the African continent.

    “We recognise the immense potential of intra-African travel to drive economic development, cultural exchange, and shared prosperity. It is for this reason that we are conducting this outreach mission to strengthen relations and partnerships with our counterparts in Ghana,” de Lille said.

    The outreach programme will also enable senior officials from both countries to engage further on tourism bilateral issues and enhance relations. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Cabinet welcomes new investments

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Thursday, March 27, 2025

    Cabinet has expressed confidence in the resilience of the economy, as the country continues to forge partnerships to build key sectors and attract new investments.

    These investments include Google South Africa’s R2.5 billion cloud project, the R93.5 billion Global Gateway Investment Package by the European Union (EU) as well as the Private Sector Participation in Rail and Port Freight Logistics Projects.

    “Cabinet welcomed the launch of Google South Africa’s R2.5 billion cloud region in Johannesburg, which integrates South Africa into Google Cloud’s global network. This project is Google’s first in Africa and marks a significant investment in South Africa’s technology infrastructure.

    “Cabinet calls on all sectors to accelerate our country’s path towards sustainable inclusive economic growth and job creation through increased investment and by reinforcing the many positives about our country,” Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said on Thursday.

    The EU also announced a R93.5 billion Global Gateway Investment Package to support strategic investment projects in clean and just energy transition, digital and physical connectivity infrastructure, and the local pharmaceutical industry.

    “Cabinet welcomed the strengthening of the Strategic Partnership between South Africa and the EU at the 8th South Africa – EU Summit held on 13 March 2025 in South Africa. The EU reiterated its support for South Africa’s G20 Presidency and the importance of the G20 as a global forum for international economic cooperation,” the Minister said.

    The launch of the Request for Information on Private Sector Participation in Rail and Port Freight Logistics Projects was also welcomed, as it is part of the critical reforms to improve South Africa’s logistics sector and thus improving economic growth through improved exports.

    “The Roadmap for Freight Logistics System in South Africa promotes the greater competition in rail and port terminal operations, which will attract private investment but strategic infrastructure such as rail lines and ports remain in public ownership,” Ntshavheni said.

    She was addressing members of the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) 2025: Heirs Energies eyes Regional Opportunities amid Strong Congolese Energy Outlook

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

    BRAZZAVILLE, Republic of the Congo, March 27, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Nigerian independent oil and gas company Heirs Energies is seeking growth opportunities in West and Central Africa. The company’s CEO Osayande Igiehon announced during the Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) 2025 that the company is interested in entering Congo, given the country’s oil and gas potential and growth-oriented development strategy.  

    Heirs Energies is the operator of OML 17 in Nigeria, where it has managed to double oil production from 25,000 barrels per day (bpd) to 50,000 bpd since it acquired the asset from Shell in 2021. In Congo, the company aims to replicate this success, strengthening its upstream portfolio and contributing to Congo’s production goals.  

    “Our mission is to build an integrated energy business across Africa that uniquely addresses Africa’s energy problems. We want to grow our business across the value chain, expanding across Africa by replicating the success we have seen in Nigeria. We are keen to come to Congo. What makes [the country] so attractive to us is that Congo wants to grow. We are a growth-oriented company and that is why we are here,” Igiehon stated.  

    As one of sub-Saharan Africa’s biggest oil producers, the Republic of Congo has a goal to increase crude output to 500,000 bpd. Concurrently, the country targets three million tons per annum LNG capacity following the start of LNG production in 2024. Achieving these goals will require substantial levels of investment and efforts are already underway to strengthen the business environment for foreign investment.  

    “When we look at the Republic of Congo, it is clear that there are vast, untapped resources. There is a huge potential of untapped oil reserves but there is also hydroelectric potential. By tapping into that potential, the Republic of Congo can be a main contributor to the energy transition,” stated Olajide Ayeronwi, CEO, FirstBank DRC.  

    To achieve production goals, the Republic of Congo is preparing to launch an international licensing round while incentivizing new investment across mature assets, aiming to maximize output at producing blocks. These efforts are expected to facilitate greater investment upstream.  

    “The Republic of Congo is undertaking big reforms to attract investors. These include regulatory reforms, with a Hydrocarbon Code introduced. Companies have access to tax benefits and there is systematic advertising of various types of contracts. There is clarity regarding the authorization of participation interests and greater transparency, with the existence of an oil and gas cadaster since 2018,” stated Daoudou Mohammad, Director of Tax and Legal at CLG – Legal Partner of CEIF 2025. 

    These reforms are a critical step towards encouraging spending across the oil and gas value chain. Olivier Dubois, Group President, OLEA Group, explained that “Exploration and production are capital-heavy with big risks that require strong technical expertise. It is important to put in place mechanisms to address the risk associated with the oil sector.”  

    Hicham Fadili, Director General, Crédit du Congo, echoed these remarks, stating that the country has been highly successful in putting the mechanisms in place to attract upstream investment. However, he added that the country needs to go beyond the upstream in terms of investment.  

    “The emphasis should be put on establishing ecosystems in the energy sector. We need to attract various types of investors. Countries across the region are mostly oil and gas producers but there is a need for joint operations to create a real energy platform in Central Africa. Logistics is also important,” he said.  

    As the Republic of Congo strives for increased production, strengthening the logistics industry becomes increasingly important. Mohamed Diop, Deputy Managing Director for Africa, AGL, said that, “Logistics is an important pillar. We need to invest but also to train the local Congolese youth, ensuring we have a win-win partnership that benefits the youth. We need to diversify our investments in equipment but also strengthen partnerships with future African champions.”  

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) 2025: Legal, E&P Experts Say Congo Ready for Increased Hydrocarbon Investment

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

    BRAZZAVILLE, Republic of the Congo, March 27, 2025/APO Group/ —

    With the upcoming establishment of a National Gas Company, the launch of a new Gas Code and development of a Gas Master Plan, the Republic of Congo is on a clear path to mobilizing capital to drive growth in its natural gas sector. Congo is home to an estimated 10 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, which is located in offshore fields such as Litchendjili, Néné, Minsala and Nkala, within the Marine XII license. 

    As such, a strong lineup of legal and hydrocarbons experts participated in a panel session – Revitalizing the Hydrocarbons Sector by Unlocking Investment – at the inaugural Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) on March 26 in Brazzaville where they discussed how investors can drive growth in Congo’s natural gas sector through favorable policies and emerging trends. 

    “The government [of Congo] is planning to establish a national gas company to encourage private investment and build up public-private partnerships,” stated Yves Ollivier, Managing Director of legal firm CLG Congo, adding, “This will be the equivalent to the SNPC [Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo] in terms of gas.” 

    Congo’s regulatory framework has evolved to support major developments in the natural gas sector, which include energy major Eni’s Congo LNG project – Congo’s first natural gas liquefaction initiative. As such, the upcoming Gas Code aims to establish a legal and regulatory framework to attract investment in gas exploration and production.  

    “We are in an environment where conditions are united so that we have the potential for returns on investment,” stated Yannick Mouamba, Country Director of Congo, Gabon and Sao Tome and Principe, SLB, adding,” Looking at the landscape of opportunities, this is the right place to run technology and show the value of what the country can offer.” 

    Meanwhile, the Gas Master Plan – launching this year – will provide a strategic roadmap for investment, infrastructure development and resource management in the gas industry. This initiative is designed to create a robust framework for investors, laying the groundwork for sustainable growth and the achievement of the country’s industrial goals. 

    “When investors want to invest their money, they are looking for sustainable returns,” stated Rene Awambeng, Founder and Managing Partner, Premier Invest, adding, “Africa is richly endowed in hydrocarbons and for Congo to attract investments, you need to create the right enabling environment.” 

    In addition to natural gas, Congo’s National Oil Company SNPC has ambitious plans to increase the country’s oil production to 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) by 2027. To attract new investment in exploration and production, Congo is leveraging new policy reforms and plans to launch a new licensing round this year, which will focus on onshore and offshore fields. 

    “In complex geological domains, such as onshore Congo, we look at the impact of decreasing cost to the customer. Most importantly, we also look at an increase in accuracy of data, which leads to a reduction in risk,” stated Jevon Hilder, Senior Business Development Manager, TGS. 

    “The ambition is there,” stated Anastasia Deulina, CFO, Afentra, adding, “The production objective of 500,000 bpd is admirable, and we very much would love to be part of that story. There is a lot of support from the government.” 

    The inaugural Congo Energy & Investment Forum, taking place March 24-26, 2025, in Brazzaville, under the highest patronage of President Denis Sassou Nguesso and supported by the Ministry of Hydrocarbons and Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo, brings together international investors and local stakeholders to explore national and regional energy and infrastructure opportunities. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) 2025 Panel Underscores Congo’s Potential to Meet Regional Petroleum Demand

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

    BRAZZAVILLE, Republic of the Congo, March 27, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The Republic of Congo is well-positioned to contribute toward regional demand for petroleum, given the country’s operating Congolaise de Raffinage (CORAF) refinery and strategic geographic location. A downstream panel discussion at the Congo Energy & Investment Forum 2025 highlighted that the modernization of CORAF and future downstream investments can support growing demand for fuel, as Central Africa’s population is expected to rapidly grow.   

    “Congo’s population is expected to add five million people by 2050. Geographically, the country is also blessed to be situated next to the DRC. So, you have a massive market right here. I am excited to get to 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) [in Congo], but most people don’t see crude oil: they use jet fuel, diesel and by-products. We need to talk about infrastructure investments,” stated Anibor Kragha, Executive Secretary of the African Refiners & Distributors Association.  

    The Republic of Congo’s ambitions to increase oil and gas output to 500,000 bpd and three million tons per annum (mtpa), respectively, coincide with a drive to enhance fuel security in both the country and broader region. At present, the country’s CORAF refinery has a processing capacity of one mtpa, converting crude oil into finished products such as butane gas, gasoline, kerosene and light diesel.  

    “CORAF was designed to work with one million tons of crude petroleum. Today, it continues to satisfy the needs of the local market, catering for between 65% to 70% of demand while the rest is imported to help the country. CORAF is in the process of being modernized in order to increase its production capacity,” stated Richard Ngola, Managing Director: Downstream, Ministry of Hydrocarbons, Republic of Congo.  

    This modernization started in 2015, when the need to improve operating units became prevalent. According to Patrice Yao, Deputy Administrator at CORAF, “We designed a development plan to enable new units to be installed and to modernize the piloting system. When the units are old, you have the challenge of maintenance, technological issues and human resources. New units enabled an increase in processing capacity.”  

    However, Yao believes that this is not enough, and the country needs to increase the quantity of products for the national market while investing in new downstream projects. To increase downstream capacity, the government has initiated the construction of a second facility: the Atlantic Petrochemical Refinery. This facility – developed in partnership with Beijing Fortune Dingheng Investment – will have a capacity of 2.3 mtpa in the first phase, focusing on high-quality gasoline and diesel. Set to start operations in late-2025, the refinery will provide a much-needed boost for the country’s downstream sector.  

    However, Kragha noted that downstream investments need to go beyond refining. “You need to look not only at the refinery expansion but the supporting infrastructure to be able to deliver on your objectives,” he said.  

    The inaugural Congo Energy & Investment Forum, taking place March 24-26, 2025, in Brazzaville, under the highest patronage of President Denis Sassou Nguesso and supported by the Ministry of Hydrocarbons and Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo, brings together international investors and local stakeholders to explore national and regional energy and infrastructure opportunities. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Congo to Double Power Generation to 1,500 MW by 2030

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

    BRAZZAVILLE, Republic of the Congo, March 27, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The Republic of Congo has unveiled plans to double its power generation capacity to 1,500 MW by 2030, with a strong focus on renewable energy projects.

    “This initiative aims to enhance electricity access for the nation’s six million citizens and support industrial growth,” said Congolese Minister of Energy and Water, Émile Ouosso, at the Congo Energy & Investment Forum in Brazzaville on Wednesday.

    A key part of this strategy involves collaboration with the World Bank and the Rockefeller Foundation through the “Mission 300” initiative. Launched in April 2024, Mission 300 targets providing electricity access to 300 million Africans by 2030. The World Bank and the African Development Bank have committed significant resources to the initiative, aiming to reduce the number of people without electricity access across the continent.

    Minister Ouosso highlighted the importance of these partnerships, stating, “With the support of international initiatives like Mission 300, we are poised to make significant strides in electrifying our nation and improving the quality of life for our citizens.”

    To achieve this, Congo is focusing on harnessing its domestic renewable energy resources. The country holds an estimated hydropower potential of 27,000 MW, though only 1% of this resource has been developed. The government has identified several key projects, including water diversion and storage techniques, to maximize hydropower output.

    “Our most valuable energy resource is water. With proper investments, we can unlock this potential to generate more electricity, foster industrialization and electrify rural communities,” said the Minister, adding, “We have identified 4,000 MW of hydropower potential in the Brazzaville region. These projects will provide clean, reliable energy for our people and industries.”

    Solar energy is also a key part of the strategy, with a project led by AMEA Power exploring the potential for a 50 MW solar farm in the Brazzaville region. Additionally, the government is working to diversify its energy mix. Chinese firm Wing Wah’s gas monetization project, currently under development, aims to deliver 400 MW of gas-fired power, with 200 MW to be integrated into the national grid.

    “If we modernize our power transmission infrastructure, we can transition away from fuel entirely,” said Minister Ouosso.

    The inaugural Congo Energy & Investment Forum, taking place March 24-26, 2025, in Brazzaville, under the highest patronage of President Denis Sassou Nguesso and supported by the Ministry of Hydrocarbons and Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo, brings together international investors and local stakeholders to explore national and regional energy and infrastructure opportunities.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s video message to the Opening of the Nutrition for Growth Summit (N4G) [scroll down for English version]

    Source: United Nations – English

    ownload the video:
    (French),
    https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+07+March+25/3347691_MSG+SG+NUTRITION+FOR+GROWTH+07+MAR+25.mp4
     
    English sub-title,
    https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+07+March+25/MSG+SG+NUTRITION+FOR+GROWTH+07+MAR+25+EN.mp4

    En 2015, les dirigeants du monde ont fait une promesse à l’humanité :

    Éliminer la faim d’ici à 2030.

    Hélas, à moins de cinq ans de l’échéance, nous sommes loin du compte.

    Aujourd’hui, une personne sur 11 souffre de la faim.

    En Afrique, c’est une personne sur cinq.

    Chez les enfants, la malnutrition représente une tragédie – et une faillite morale.

    Dans le même temps, des millions de personnes sont en surpoids, à cause d’une alimentation transformées – riche en sucre et graisses saturées, mais pauvre en nutriments essentiels.

    Cette double menace fragilise nos systèmes de santé, creuse les inégalités et freine le développement durable.

    La lutte contre la faim est un défi mondial qui demande l’engagement de chacun, à tous les niveaux – et une mobilisation politique et financière sans précédent pour transformer durablement nos systèmes alimentaires.

    C’est l’objectif de l’Alliance mondiale contre la faim, qui vise à mobiliser des fonds et des solutions concrètes pour aider les pays dans cette transformation.

    En juillet, le deuxième bilan du sommet des Nations unies sur les systèmes alimentaires à Addis-Abeba, devra aboutir à des engagements concrets – en particulier financiers.

    Ainsi, seul un tiers des pays à faible revenu et à revenu intermédiaire dispose de financements adéquats pour la nutrition. 

    Et trop souvent, les pays vulnérables sont laissés pour compte face aux crises économiques, conflits prolongés, et catastrophes climatiques.
     
    Le Pacte pour l’avenir appelle à une réforme de l’architecture financière internationale… 

    Il comprend un engagement à mettre en place un plan de relance des Objectifs de développement durable…
     
    Augmenter la capacité de prêt des banques multilatérales de développement…

    À alléger le fardeau des pays croulant sous les dettes…

    Et mobiliser davantage de ressources internationales et nationales, publiques et privées, pour des investissements vitaux – notamment en matière de sécurité alimentaire.

    Excellences,

    Un monde sans faim n’est pas une utopie.

    C’est un choix.

    Nous avons les ressources, les connaissances et les outils nécessaires.

    Et votre Sommet représente une opportunité importante de mobiliser des actions concrètes en faveur d’une nutrition saine pour tous.

    Alors agissons ensemble pour tenir notre promesse et faire malnutrition une histoire du passé.

    Je vous remercie.

    ***
    In 2015, world leaders made a pledge to humanity:

    To eradicate hunger by 2030.

    Sadly, with less than five years to go, we are far off track.

    Today, one in eleven people suffers from hunger.

    In Africa, it is one in five.

    Among children, malnutrition is a tragedy – and a moral failure.

    Meanwhile, millions of people struggle with obesity due to a processed diet – high in sugar and saturated fats, but low in essential nutrients.

    This dual threat strains our healthcare systems, widens inequalities and hinders sustainable development.

    Combating hunger demands a global effort at every level – and unprecedented political and financial engagement to sustainably transform our food systems.

    The Global Alliance against Hunger aims to mobilize funds and concrete solutions to support countries in this transformation.

    In July, the second United Nations Food Systems Summit Stocktake in Addis Ababa must result in tangible commitments – notably financial ones.

    Only a third of low- and middle-income countries have adequate funding for nutrition.

    Too often, vulnerable countries are left on their own – facing economic crises, protracted conflicts and climate disasters.
     
    The Pact for the Future calls for reforming the international financial architecture.

    It includes a commitment to advance an SDG Stimulus.
     
    To increase the lending capacity of Multilateral Development Banks;

    To alleviate the burden of countries drowning in debt;

    And to mobilize more international and domestic resources, public and private, for vital investments – particularly in food security.

    Excellencies,

    A world without hunger is not a utopia.

    It is a choice.

    We have the necessary resources, knowledge and tools.

    And your Summit represents a key opportunity to drive concrete action for a healthy nutrition for all.

    So let us work together to keep our promise and make malnutrition a thing of the past.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung’s New Bespoke AI Laundry With AI Home Enables Smarter, More Efficient Laundry Care

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung Electronics today announced the launch of its new washers and dryer products — the Bespoke AI Laundry with AI Home1 — that integrate screens and Bespoke design to elevate the user experience. The Bespoke washers and dryers come in various forms of size and heating methods to meet a wide range of customer needs across diverse regions. The pair is available in both large and small capacities, making them suitable for different types of family and living arrangements. Samsung is also launching the dryer with two types of heating methods — the vent and the heat pump — to meet the needs of various environments around the world.
     
    This year’s Bespoke AI Laundry products incorporate the 7” AI Home screens, extending Samsung’s “Screens Everywhere” vision that was first presented at CES 2025. These screens offer intuitive control and monitoring of essential information related to the laundry experience, such as wash cycles and remaining detergent levels. They also remember user habits and consider periodic and seasonal needs, suggesting appropriate cycles to free users from having to consider the right cycle every time. The AI Home also functions as a central hub allowing users to monitor and control connected appliances, while also enjoying online videos or music.
     
    “Last year’s launch of the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo marked the beginning of integrating screens into our products, providing users access to essential information about laundry and home control,” says Jeong Seung Moon, EVP and Head of the R&D Team for Digital Appliances Business at Samsung Electronics. “This year, we are excited to unveil the complete Bespoke AI Laundry lineup, which caters to a wider range of customer needs and enables them to take advantage of these convenient screens.”
     
    The Bespoke AI Washer & Dryer sets are designed to simplify laundry routines with advanced AI algorithms and sensors, optimizing washing and drying performance while enhancing energy efficiency. The original AI Wash and AI Dry are upgraded to AI Wash+ and AI Dry+, with enhanced fabric detection abilities to ensure efficient and high-quality washing and drying for a wider variety of fabric types.
     
     
    27-Inch Wide Large Capacity Washer & Dryer Set Brings Extensive Laundry Capabilities

     
    Samsung is introducing a 27-inch large capacity washer and dryer set,2 with each device featuring the 7” AI Home and utilizing a sleek Bespoke design based on a fully unified flat-panel aesthetic. In addition to the flexibility of vertical or horizontal installation layouts, the substantial capacity allows users to wash large items, like king-size comforters, with ease.
     
    The washer now features the upgraded AI Wash+, which has been upgraded to newly detect outdoor fabrics and denim.3 Based on the detected fabric type, soil level and weight of the laundry, the AI Wash+ cycle efficiently4 cleans clothes by automatically adjusting detergent levels, rinsing time and wash settings. The washer also features a Bedding cycle that can sense the thickness of the blankets and adjust the cycle time and water usage accordingly.5 Users can also experience next-level convenience with features like Auto Open Door and Speed Shot technology which completes wash cycles in just 30 minutes.6

     
    The matching large capacity dryer is launching in two types to meet living environments of different regions – the vent type in certain countries in the Americas, and a heat pump type in other regions. Users will be able to enjoy thorough and gentle drying with AI Dry+, which has been upgraded to detect fabric types and take them into account to optimize drying7 along with real-time temperature, weight8 and moisture content. The upgraded feature’s AI algorithm uses an advanced sensor that carefully monitor various factors to detect four fabric types,9 which results in benefits like heavy duty drying such as denim. Previously, denim was harder to dry evenly due to thicker sections like pockets, but the dryer can now detect this fabric to and reduce drying inconsistencies, delivering better performance.

     
    The dryers also provide the Bedding feature, which also uses an advanced algorithm to detect a blanket’s size for optimized drying times and dryness.10 For those times when drying needs to be finished quickly, the vent type’s Super Speed Drying can complete a drying cycle in as little as 30 minutes.11

     
    Along with the washer and dryer set, a large capacity washer-dryer combo model12 is also being launched for users looking for a compact, all-in-one device that can complete both jobs while using up limited space. The combo incorporates the AI Home, AI Wash+ and AI Ecobubble like the washer, and dries the clothing through a condensing method.
     

    24-Inch Wide Small Capacity Washer & Dryer Set Boosts Laundry Efficiency

     
    Following the unveiling of the Bespoke AI Washer at IFA 2024, the 24-inch small capacity washer & dryer set will be launching in Europe later this year. Like the large capacity washer and dryer, the small capacity set also incorporates the 7” AI Home, providing intuitive control and connectivity features for a wider audience.
     
    The washer, built to be highly efficient to meet the needs of the European market, consumes up to 55% less energy than the minimum efficiency requirements for a Class A rating.13 It also supports thorough14 cleaning optimizing water and detergent use with AI Wash, and ensures gentle washing while improving soil removal with AI Ecobubble . QuickDrive , available with 11 different cycles, can reduce wash time by up to 50%15 without compromising cleaning performance.

     
    The matching dryer features the AI Dry+, capable of drying precisely by detecting four fabric types16 — Normal, Denim, Towels and Synthetics. This enables the machine to dry precisely17 while reducing energy use by up to 10% and drying time by up to 15%.18 QuickDrive is also useful when users need to dry their laundry both quickly and gently, reducing drying time by up to 35%19 through automatic adjustments of the inverter compressor.
     
    With the launch of these new products, Samsung continues to push the boundaries of innovation, offering highly intelligent, efficient and aesthetically pleasing appliances that simplify everyday life by delivering enhanced convenience to users.

     
     
    1 You will need a Samsung account to access AI Home, our network-based service that includes apps and our other smart features available through your device. Does not mean all services available on the AI Home are AI or generate information or outcome using AI. Certain functions accessible through the AI Home utilize AI-based algorithms, which be updated periodically to improve accuracy. AI-based algorithms may generate incomplete or incorrect information.2 Washer is 18.5kg~26kg capacity, and Dryer 17kg~24kg capacity depending on the region of launch.3 Based on an advanced AI-created algorithm. It may not detect certain fabrics or accurately identify them when a load includes a mixture of different fabric types. To prevent wear, wash like fabrics together.4 Based on an AI-created algorithm and internal testing using the AI Wash+ on a 3kg load. A turbidity sensor operates for all weights, while fabric sensing operates for 3kg and under. Actual results may vary depending on individual use.5 Washes dry blankets weighing up to 4 kg.6 Applicable on a Cotton wash course. Based on internal testing using a Normal course at 40°C with a DOE 3kg load. Results may vary depending on the actual usage conditions.7 Based on an AI-created algorithm. Actual results may vary depending on individual use.8 Applies to Heat Pump type only.9 The types of detectable fabric are Normal, Heavy Duty, Synthetics, and Delicates for Vent Type, and Normal, Towel, Denim, Delicates for Heat Pump models.10 The Bedding drying cycle can dry up to 4 kg of dry comforters.11 Tested on the Samsung DV90F with a DOE (Cotton 50% + Polyester 50%) 8lb load. RMC (Remaining Moisture Content) under 48%, 24℃±2℃, RH (Relative Humidity) 50% ±10%.12 Launched in select countries in South East Asia, Middle East, Africa and China (Taiwan)13 Based on Samsung internal testing. The energy consumption of this 11KG model is 21.8kWh / 100 cycles, which is 55% more energy efficient compared to the minimum threshold of energy efficiency class A (52kWh / 100 cycles for 11KG models). Energy ratings tested with Eco 40-60 program, 55% savings tested with Eco 40-60 program.14 Based on an AI-created algorithm. Actual results may vary depending on individual use.15 Based on internal testing (in accordance with IEC 60456-2010) of the WF90/24 cycles with the QuickDrive option compared to cycles without the QuickDrive option. Result: Wash time reduced by 13.2%-50.8%. Results may vary depending on the actual usage conditions. This may increase energy usage.16 Based on an advanced AI algorithm, utilizing weight, moisture content and drying temperature data, it can detect four types of fabric: normal, denim, towel and synthetics.17 Based on an AI-created algorithm. Actual results may vary depending on individual use.18 Based on internal testing (synthetic 2kg load) of the DV90F/24 using AI Dry+ compared to DV5000D using Eco cotton.19 Based on internal testing on the DV90F/24 model, Comparison of drying time for IEC cotton 9kg load drying under Eco cotton + QuickDrive On / Off conditions. Result: Drying time reduced by 35%. Results may vary depending on the actual usage conditions. Using QuickDrive may increase your energy usage.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Reed: Sewage spill data a “disgrace”

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Reed: Sewage spill data a “disgrace”

    New sewage data shows small drop in the number of sewage spills in 2024, but duration has increased.

    The Environment Secretary has described the number of spills from storm overflows as “disgraceful” as new figures were released today (27 March).  

    The figures show a slight drop in the total number of spills compared to 2023. However, the total duration of spills has increased – with 3,614,428 hours recorded across the year.  

    Environment Secretary Steve Reed said: 

    These figures are disgraceful and are a stark reminder of how years of underinvestment have led to water companies discharging unacceptable levels of sewage into our rivers, lakes, and seas. 

    We’ve already placed water companies under tough special measures through the landmark Water Act, banning unfair bonuses for polluting water bosses and introducing criminal charges for lawbreakers. 

    But we will go further and faster. That’s why this government has secured over £100 billion of private sector investment to upgrade our crumbling infrastructure and not only clean up our rivers, lakes and seas for good, but also help deliver economic growth across the country as part of our Plan for Change.

    The government is prioritising water infrastructure upgrades, with £104 billion of private-sector investment secured for the next five years. This will be invested into the water sector and will mean spills are cut by 45% by 2030 from 2021 levels, according to Ofwat. 

    We have also commissioned a full review into the sector to deliver lasting reforms that will clean up our waterways for good.

    To further reduce the frequency and duration of storm overflow spills, Defra recently published new storm overflow guidance for water companies and regulators. This guidance directs investment toward the most environmentally sensitive sites to better protect nature.  

    Under this new government guidance, agreed as part of the price review process (PR24), improvements are being prioritised to focus water company investment on better wastewater management and enhancing bathing water quality nationwide. 

    This follows the Water (Special Measures) Act passing into law last month, which gives regulators stronger powers to crack down on polluting water companies. It allows faster penalties, bans bonuses for failing executives, and introduces independent monitoring of every sewage outlet. Water companies must now publish real-time data on emergency overflows, with spills reported within an hour of the initial event. 

    The £104 billion investment will be rolled out over the next five years, marking the largest upgrade to water infrastructure since privatisation. This will drive forward 150 major infrastructure projects – creating over 30,000 jobs across the country, supporting the building of 1.5 million new homes and powering new industries such as gigafactories and data centres. 

    The Independent Water Commission, launched by the government last year and led by Sir Jon Cunliffe, will recommend long-term reforms to reset the water sector regulatory system. This will help the government to establish a resilient and innovative water sector and a robust regulatory framework.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Environment Agency storm overflow spill data for 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Environment Agency storm overflow spill data for 2024

    Spill count and duration remains unacceptably high across England. Data analysis and stricter rules to reduce pollution going forward.

    The Environment Agency has today published water company Event Duration Monitoring (EDM) Annual Return data for 2024 showing the frequency and duration of spills from storm overflows in England.  

    The data for 2024 shows a 2.9% decrease in the number of sewage spills compared to 2023. Spill durations increased by 0.2% – this is the number of hours overflows operated for compared to last year. This year’s data shows that storm overflow spill counts and duration remain unacceptably high.

    The data also shows that in 2024:   

    • The average number of spills per overflow was 31.8 compared to 33.1 in 2023 and 32.6 in 2020; 
    • 39% of storm overflows spilled less than 10 times in 2024 compared to 40.5% in 2023 and 40% in 2020; 
    • 12.5% of storm overflows did not spill at all in 2024 compared to 13.9% in 2023 and 13% in 2020. 

    In January, the Environment Agency worked with partners to secure the largest commitment of actions and investment from water companies to clean up our waterways since privatisation. The Water Industry National Environment Programme (WINEP) sets out over 24,000 actions water companies must take over the next five years to meet their legal requirements for the environment, representing a £22.1bn investment – around £10.2bn of which will be used to improve storm overflows in England, including nature-based solutions which reduce the amount of rainfall reaching overflows.

    To meet our requirements, water companies have committed to upgrading over 2,500 storm overflows – which is expected to reduce annual sewage spills by 85,000. Water companies will also install 3,500 monitors at emergency overflows sites, further protecting and enhancing 13,500 km of river.

    Chair of Environment Agency Alan Lovell said: 

    This year’s data shows we are still a long way off where we need to be to stop unnecessary sewage pollution. But it also provides vital intelligence that drives targeted investment. Using our Event Duration monitoring analysis, we have worked with partners to secure £10.2bn from water companies to improve storm overflows in England.

    While these improvements get underway, we expect water companies to do what customers pay it to do: ensure their existing assets are maintained and operating properly.

    We will continue to protect our precious water quality and resources by holding water companies to account.

    The Environment Agency puts permits in place for storm overflows to ensure they are only used legally during times of rainfall and snowmelt.

    We have significantly ramped up our monitoring of water companies in recent years. There is more monitoring of storm overflows in place than ever before and data-driven analytics led by our increased workforce is helping us to map discharges against rainfall more effectively.

    The transparency this provides allows us to understand the scale of the issue at hand and gives the industry a clear framework to focus their investment and improvements.

    It also informs our compliance and investigation work. Where significant pollution incidents occur, we work to stop the pollution as quickly as possible and then to take enforcement action where necessary. Since 2015, we have concluded 65 prosecutions against water and sewerage companies – securing fines of over £151 million. At the same time, we’re tightening the rules around storm overflows. The Water Special Measures Act will give us increased legal powers to take stronger enforcement action against environmental lawbreakers.

    We recently updated our Storm Overflow Assessment Framework, which places greater emphasis on water companies to investigate, maintain and improve underperforming storm overflows. We are also updating water company permits to include spill frequency thresholds and, since January, all day dry spills – no matter how small – are now classified as pollution incidents.

    Reducing the use of storm overflows is vital to achieving healthier waterways. This is a long-term process, but we have the investment, mechanisms and powers to move closer towards a cleaner future.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s video message to the Opening of the Nutrition for Growth Summit (N4G) [scroll down for English version]

    Source: United Nations

    Download the video:
    (French),
    https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+07+March+25/3347691_MSG+SG+NUTRITION+FOR+GROWTH+07+MAR+25.mp4
     
    English sub-title,
    https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+07+March+25/MSG+SG+NUTRITION+FOR+GROWTH+07+MAR+25+EN.mp4

    En 2015, les dirigeants du monde ont fait une promesse à l’humanité :

    Éliminer la faim d’ici à 2030.

    Hélas, à moins de cinq ans de l’échéance, nous sommes loin du compte.

    Aujourd’hui, une personne sur 11 souffre de la faim.

    En Afrique, c’est une personne sur cinq.

    Chez les enfants, la malnutrition représente une tragédie – et une faillite morale.

    Dans le même temps, des millions de personnes sont en surpoids, à cause d’une alimentation transformées – riche en sucre et graisses saturées, mais pauvre en nutriments essentiels.

    Cette double menace fragilise nos systèmes de santé, creuse les inégalités et freine le développement durable.

    La lutte contre la faim est un défi mondial qui demande l’engagement de chacun, à tous les niveaux – et une mobilisation politique et financière sans précédent pour transformer durablement nos systèmes alimentaires.

    C’est l’objectif de l’Alliance mondiale contre la faim, qui vise à mobiliser des fonds et des solutions concrètes pour aider les pays dans cette transformation.

    En juillet, le deuxième bilan du sommet des Nations unies sur les systèmes alimentaires à Addis-Abeba, devra aboutir à des engagements concrets – en particulier financiers.

    Ainsi, seul un tiers des pays à faible revenu et à revenu intermédiaire dispose de financements adéquats pour la nutrition. 

    Et trop souvent, les pays vulnérables sont laissés pour compte face aux crises économiques, conflits prolongés, et catastrophes climatiques.
     
    Le Pacte pour l’avenir appelle à une réforme de l’architecture financière internationale… 

    Il comprend un engagement à mettre en place un plan de relance des Objectifs de développement durable…
     
    Augmenter la capacité de prêt des banques multilatérales de développement…

    À alléger le fardeau des pays croulant sous les dettes…

    Et mobiliser davantage de ressources internationales et nationales, publiques et privées, pour des investissements vitaux – notamment en matière de sécurité alimentaire.

    Excellences,

    Un monde sans faim n’est pas une utopie.

    C’est un choix.

    Nous avons les ressources, les connaissances et les outils nécessaires.

    Et votre Sommet représente une opportunité importante de mobiliser des actions concrètes en faveur d’une nutrition saine pour tous.

    Alors agissons ensemble pour tenir notre promesse et faire malnutrition une histoire du passé.

    Je vous remercie.

    ***
    In 2015, world leaders made a pledge to humanity:

    To eradicate hunger by 2030.

    Sadly, with less than five years to go, we are far off track.

    Today, one in eleven people suffers from hunger.

    In Africa, it is one in five.

    Among children, malnutrition is a tragedy – and a moral failure.

    Meanwhile, millions of people struggle with obesity due to a processed diet – high in sugar and saturated fats, but low in essential nutrients.

    This dual threat strains our healthcare systems, widens inequalities and hinders sustainable development.

    Combating hunger demands a global effort at every level – and unprecedented political and financial engagement to sustainably transform our food systems.

    The Global Alliance against Hunger aims to mobilize funds and concrete solutions to support countries in this transformation.

    In July, the second United Nations Food Systems Summit Stocktake in Addis Ababa must result in tangible commitments – notably financial ones.

    Only a third of low- and middle-income countries have adequate funding for nutrition.

    Too often, vulnerable countries are left on their own – facing economic crises, protracted conflicts and climate disasters.
     
    The Pact for the Future calls for reforming the international financial architecture.

    It includes a commitment to advance an SDG Stimulus.
     
    To increase the lending capacity of Multilateral Development Banks;

    To alleviate the burden of countries drowning in debt;

    And to mobilize more international and domestic resources, public and private, for vital investments – particularly in food security.

    Excellencies,

    A world without hunger is not a utopia.

    It is a choice.

    We have the necessary resources, knowledge and tools.

    And your Summit represents a key opportunity to drive concrete action for a healthy nutrition for all.

    So let us work together to keep our promise and make malnutrition a thing of the past.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Hundreds of millions of pounds to turbocharge manufacturing sector in Wales

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Hundreds of millions of pounds to turbocharge manufacturing sector in Wales

    Wales to see new £250m investment into UK’s largest semiconductor facility, supporting hundreds of highly-skilled jobs in Newport and supporting the government’s Plan for Change.

    • Vishay Intertechnology’s planned investment is vote of confidence in the region’s industrial capabilities, and strengthens the world’s first Compound Semiconductor Cluster in South Wales.   

    • Chancellor welcomes the investment as a major win for the UK as a global hub for advanced manufacturing.

    Wales is set to benefit from a £250million investment from one of the world’s largest manufacturers of semiconductors that will be vital to the production of electric vehicles (EV), supporting the government’s Plan for Change in delivering more skilled jobs, and turbocharging the economy.

    The Chancellor Rachel Reeves will welcome Vishay Intertechnology’s intention to invest on a visit to their Newport plant today (Thursday 27 March) – the UK’s largest semiconductor facility – as part of plans to develop large-scale compound semiconductor manufacturing in the country.

    The investment will boost production at the state-of-the-art factory where it will make advanced Silicon Carbide semiconductors, an integral part of EV production. This advanced technology supports faster battery charging time, enabling a more efficient supply of energy to the motor and longer driving distances.

    Vishay’s investment is expected to directly support over 500 high value, high skilled jobs in the region and indirectly support hundreds more in the wider supply chain.

    It comes after the Chancellor’s Spring Statement yesterday where she vowed to bring about “new era of security and national renewal” to kickstart economic growth, protect working people and keep Britain safe. The Chancellor confirmed that the OBR has upgraded their growth forecast in 2026 and every year thereafter and people will be on average £500 a year better off by the end of this parliament compared to under the previous government, putting more money in people’s pockets.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:

    Under this government the UK is open for business. This is exactly the type of investment that will help us grow the economy, create highly skilled jobs and boost opportunity for people across the country, as we deliver on our Plan for Change to get more money in working people’s pockets.

    Supported by the government’s Automotive Transformation Fund (ATF), the investment will help secure domestic supplies of semiconductors critical to the UK automotive industry, and other key industries including renewable energy and defence, supporting the Industrial Strategy. It also strengthens the UK’s position in a competitive, global semiconductor landscape, supporting long-term growth for our economy.

    It is a huge boost for the UK as a global hub for advanced manufacturing, which has the fastest growth in manufacturing productivity per job in the G7 between 2010-2023.

    Business and Trade Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds said:

    This is a huge vote of confidence in the Welsh economy and our plans to make Britain the destination of choice for investments in the industries of tomorrow. It will support local skilled jobs and raise living standards, showing our Plan for Change is working.

    Vishay’s investment will help secure a domestic supply of semiconductors which are vital for our world leading automotive sector and support our clean energy industries – key growth driving sectors identified in our upcoming Industrial Strategy.

    Secretary of State for Wales, Jo Stevens said:

    This massive investment by Vishay and the UK Government is a huge boost for Wales’s world-leading semiconductor industry.

    Earlier this month I was at Vishay to see the work they do on advanced manufacturing, renewable energy and defence industries – all key sectors in the Welsh economy.

    This investment will build on that success to create and support hundreds of highly skilled and well-paid jobs, driving economic growth in south Wales and beyond and helping us deliver our Plan for Change.

    Roy Shoshani, COO Semiconductors and CTO for Vishay said:

    This is an exciting moment, and the start of our plans for growth in the UK. We can see through the development of the Industrial Strategy and the skilled workforce in Newport that there is a real opportunity to play to the UK’s strength in advanced semiconductors, delivering greater economic security and supporting Net Zero.

    Ahead of her visit to Newport, the Chancellor will join the Invest in Women Taskforce roundtable with the Welsh First Minister which has secured over £250million of funding commitments to support female entrepreneurs in the UK.

    Through the ATF, delivered in partnership with the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC), the government continues to unlock private investment in UK automotive design, development, and manufacturing as the sector transitions to zero emission technology. To date, the ATF and APC funding programmes have leveraged over £6 billion of investment from the private sector.

    The Autumn Budget confirmed over £2 billion for capital and R&D funding over five years for zero emission vehicle manufacturing and their supply chains. Building on the achievements of the ATF and APC programmes, this long-term commitment is a vote of confidence in the UK’s automotive industry, supporting investment and productivity growth across UK automotive.

    Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive said:

    This significant investment in compound semiconductors is a huge contribution to the innovation and advanced technology necessary to drive the future of UK Automotive. British-made next-generation semiconductors will create jobs, support supply chains and enhance the UK’s strategic capabilities. Digitisation and decarbonisation are at the heart of the transition taking place amongst UK automotive manufacturers, and this investment can support that transition, aided by a comprehensive industrial strategy to deliver the growth the sector and the economy needs.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Creating sensors for extreme fusion energy conditions

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Creating sensors for extreme fusion energy conditions

    UKAEA awards £3.5m to develop highly specialised sensors for extreme conditions of fusion energy environments

    Diagnostic equipment on the MAST Upgrade machine measuring the magnetic field inside the plasma at UKAEA’s Culham Campus – Image Credit United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority

    Thirteen organisations have secured contracts with the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) to develop robust sensing technologies for use in future fusion power plants.

    Worth £3.5m in total, 16 contracts – feasibility studies from £100,000 up to £250,000 – have been awarded by UKAEA’s Fusion Industry Programme, an initiative launched in 2021 to develop the necessary technology and skills for the future global fusion power plant market.

    The 13 organisations – 10 private companies and three academic institutions – are developing a range of sensing and diagnostic technologies for use in extreme environments, an essential field of innovation for future fusion power plants.

    Fusion power plants will operate under complex conditions, including extreme temperatures, high neutron loads and high magnetic fields. Developing highly specialised, robust sensing and control technologies that can operate under these extreme conditions is essential to making fusion energy a commercially viable part of the world’s energy mix.

    Novel sensing and diagnostic systems will be needed to measure a range of data within a fusion power plant, including plasma position and shape, plasma electron density, temperature, and the performance of plasma-facing components.

    The 13 organisations will now undertake technical feasibility studies, taking their sensing and diagnostics technologies to ‘proof of concept’ stages with support from the Fusion Industry Programme.

    Tim Bestwick, Chief Technology Officer and Deputy CEO, UKAEA, said: “Fusion promises to be a safe, sustainable source of energy for future generations. However, delivering fusion means overcoming complex scientific and engineering challenges, such as developing tough sensors to withstand fusion’s harsh environments.

    “The Fusion Industry Programme is engaging private companies and academia to help solve these challenges, while stimulating innovation that can boost adjacent sectors.”

    In a first for the Fusion Industry Programme, expert fusion industry support is being provided by technical advisors from both UKAEA and Tokamak Energy Ltd. Experts from UKAEA and Tokamak Energy are providing technical advice on the conditions encountered in a fusion environment, to help inform the design and development of sensing and diagnostic technologies.

    Joanne Flanagan, Tokamak Energy’s Head of Diagnostics, Data and Control, said: “We’re delighted to see a wealth of variety in the innovative responses to this challenge and are excited to support the projects in our role as technical advisors.

    “Measurement systems and components will need to be extremely robust to operate in the extreme fusion power plant environment, which is why we must explore a full range of technologies, ideas and solutions. This challenge is designed to stimulate the innovation needed to address this development, bringing us all one step closer to the goal of delivering clean, secure and affordable fusion energy.”

    The full list of organisations awarded contracts:

    Organisation Project Title
    3 – Sci Ltd High field, high temperature, radiation-tolerant distributed magnetic sensing feasibility
    Amentum Clean Energy Ltd Determination of Hydrogen Isotopologues in Liquid Lithium
    First Light Fusion Ltd Prototyping a multi-use Photon Doppler Velocimetry (PDV) system for robust, remote measurement of inertial fusion compression, power plant relevant electron density measurements and vacuum chamber wall shock movement
    Fraunhofer UK Research Ltd LED-based Raman spectroscopy analyser for tritium and deuterium concentration measurements; Zeeman Magnetometry for Plasma diagnostics (ZeeMaP); PULSE Phase-sensitive dUaL-comb SpEctrometer for plasma density measurements
    Full Matrix Ltd A feasibility study for the interpretation of ultrasonic guided waves in witness specimens for remote fusion diagnostics
    IDOM UK Ltd AI-Driven Restoration and Monitoring Framework for Plasma-Facing Mirrors in Fusion Diagnostics.
    Kyoto Fusioneering UK Ltd Exploratory Study for the Development of Tritium Concentration Sensors in Application to liquid Lithium and FLIBE under real fusion environment
    MuWave Ltd Feasibility Study for High Frequency Collective Thompson Scattering System
    Nascent Semiconductor Ltd Robust Electronics for Sensing Characteristics in Unconventional Environments (RESCUE)
    Oxford Sigma Ltd Project PRISM – Performance and Resilience of Innovative Surfaces for Mirrors; Project DEPARTED (Diagnostic Erosion Passive and Analysis in Real-Time and Environment Device)
    University of Edinburgh Development of a Raman Spectroscopic System for the Online Monitoring of Lithium Metal-based Breeding Blankets
    University of Leeds Terahertz Quantum Cascades Lasers for Plasma Interferometry
    University of Warwick Diamond Magnetometers for Tokamak Diagnostics

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Albanese to call election on Friday as Peter Dutton announces a plan to protect gas supply for Australians

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

    Anthony Albanese is set to announce on Friday that Australians will go to the polls on May 3, after he makes an early morning visit to Governor-General Sam Mostyn.

    The prime minster’s timing means Thursday night’s budget reply from Opposition Leader Peter Dutton will be quickly overshadowed. A day of Senate estimates scrutiny of the budget will be also be scrapped.

    In his budget reply, Dutton announced a raft of proposed spending cuts and several new measures. The one big handout, a year-long halving of the fuel excise rate, had been foreshadowed ahead of the speech.

    Dutton announced a Coalition government would introduce a National Gas Plan to secure a domestic supply of gas, and invest $1 billion in a Critical Gas Infrastructure Fund.

    The gas plan would be aimed at ensuring the local supply, putting downward pressure on prices in the medium term.

    Meanwhile, Dutton’s proposal to cut the excise on petrol and diesel came under sharp attack on Thursday from the government.

    The excise plan is the opposition’s counter to the government’s $17 billion tax cuts announced in Tuesday’s budget, which were rushed through parliament on Wednesday night. Dutton said the “so called tax cut ‘top up’ is simply a tax cut cop-out”.

    Other Coalition initiatives announced by Dutton include a new target of 400,000 apprentices and $400 million for youth mental health.

    A Coalition government would cut Labor’s $20 billion Rewiring the Nation Fund, the $10 Housing Australia Future Fund and the $16 billion production tax credits. It would also reverse the 41,000 increase in Canberra-based public service.

    In his speech, Dutton declared the election was “as much about leadership as it’s about policy”.

    “The choice is clear at the next election,” he said, declaring he would be “a strong leader and a steady hand – just as John Howard was.

    “I will make the tough decisions – not shirk them. I will put the national interest first. I will lead with conviction – not walk both sides of the street.”

    He said he had “real life experience”, pointing to his police force service and time as a small business owner. He was “someone who came from a working-class background and knows the value of hard-work and the aspiration that drives Australians.”

    Dutton declared the Coalition would “provide the moral and political leadership needed to restore law, order, and justice”.

    “Under Labor, you will get the same weakness of leadership that has compounded crime and emboldened antisemitism on our streets,” Dutton said.

    He said that “All too often, this prime minister is too weak, too late, and too equivocal”.

    Homing in on the energy issue, Dutton said “under the Coalition, energy will become affordable and reliable again”.

    He said “the only way to drive down power prices quickly is to ramp-up domestic gas production.

    The Coalition would “prioritise domestic gas supply, address shortfalls, and reduce energy prices for Australians”.

    “We will immediately introduce an east coast gas reservation.

    “This will secure an additional 10% to 20% of the east coast’s demand – gas which would  otherwise be exported.

    “Gas sold on the domestic market will be de-coupled from overseas markets to protect Australia from international price shocks.

    “And this will drive down new wholesale domestic gas prices from over $14 per gigajoule to under 10 per gigajoule.”

    The Coalition’s investment of $1 billion in a Critical Gas Infrastructure Fund would increase gas pipeline and storage capacity,

    “We will put in place ‘use it or lose it’ stipulations for gas drilling companies – so offshore gas fields are not locked-up for years.

    “And we will ensure we will have a fit-for-purpose gas trigger to safeguard supply.

    “This plan will deliver lower wholesale gas prices which will flow through the economy.”

    Dutton said this election was “sliding doors moment for our nation”.

    “A returned Albanese Government in any form won’t just be another three bleak years. Setbacks will be set in stone.”

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

    – ref. Albanese to call election on Friday as Peter Dutton announces a plan to protect gas supply for Australians – https://theconversation.com/albanese-to-call-election-on-friday-as-peter-dutton-announces-a-plan-to-protect-gas-supply-for-australians-253241

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: From Farm to Table: Horticulture Development and Food Security in Uzbekistan

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    Transcript

    Makhtob Odilova, Horticulture entrepreneur

    For many this is just a field, but for me it is the story of my life.

    Bukhara region, Uzbekistan.

    Makhtob Odilova, Horticulture entrepreneur

    I started business in agriculture, because the population is growing, and demand for tomatoes and cucumbers is also increasing. Before there were no tomatoes and cucumbers in our district.

    Entrepreneurship motivates people to do new things. I studied the opportunities in Bukhara and decided to start a greenhouse business.

    Makhtob was able to grow her business with the help of ADB. The project extended $154 million to horticulture entrepreneurs, channeled through local banks.

    It helped to finance and train entrepreneurs like Makhtob in areas like climate-smart agriculture, business planning, and market expansion.  

    ADB-financed Horticulture Value Chain Development Project (2017-2023) provided 359 subloans: 220 subloans for production of modern greenhouse complexes (195) and intensive gardens (25); and 139 subloans for storage improvement (83), processing (45), taro-packaging of fruit and vegetable products (4), and agricultural machinery purchase (7).

    Makhtob Odilova, Horticulture entrepreneur

    In 2020, during the pandemic, we took another $1 million loan so that our work would not stop. Using this loan we built a new greenhouse in Kagan district.

    Geographical distribution of subloans: Andijan (3.1%), Bukhara (17.0%), Djizzak (4.2%), Fergana (7.8%), Kashkadarya (6.6%), Republic of Karakalpakstan (1.2%), Khorezm (5.8%), Namangan (4.4%), Navoi (4.1%), Samarkand (10.7%), Sirdarya (13.5%), Surkhandarya (6.6%), Tashkent (15.0%). Participating banks: Asaka Bank, Davr Bank, Hamkorbank, Ipoteka Bank, Ipak Yuli Bank, NBU, SQB, Turon Bank.

    Makhtob Odilova, Horticulture entrepreneur

    When we planted in the soil, the yield was very low. After we switched to hydroponics, the yield significantly increased. In 2020-2023, we delivered to our population and exported about 600 tons of tomato.

    Horticultural exports increased from $6oo million in 2015 to $1.15 billion in 2022. Export volume in 2022: 648,483 tons of vegetables, 318,900 tons of grapes, 305,479 tons of fruits, 136,600 tons of melons.

    To help bring food from farm to table, ADB also supported the country’s largest modern grocery retail company, Korzinka. $12 million loan helped the company build its inventory buffers for food and pay suppliers at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Kanokpan Lao-Araya, ADB Country Director for Uzbekistan

    ADB is happy to help boost food production and strengthen supply chains in Uzbekistan. This will not only help ensure food security, but will also create and preserve jobs, particularly for women and those in rural areas who depend on agriculture for their livelihoods.

    Makhtob Odilova, Horticulture entrepreneur

    My advice to women is to never be afraid of hard work. A woman should be a risk taker. Any woman can handle large business. Just believe.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How Australia’s government is spending less on consultants – and trying to rebuild the public service

    Source: The Conversation – France – By Emmanuel Josserand, Enseignant-chercheur, Pôle Léonard de Vinci

    The post-Covid era has been marked by a global crackdown on government spending on consultants. This phenomenon hasn’t only concerned France, where the “McKinsey-gate” episode concerning President Emmanuel Macron’s 2017 campaign for the Élysée led to a Senate inquiry and spending cuts.

    Public debates, government inquiries and new laws emerged in many countries, including the UK, US, Canada, New Zealand, Germany and South Africa. Australia has been particularly active and achieved significant savings in consultant and contractor spending. Here’s how it did it.

    Nearly €2 billion in savings

    To understand why the use of consultants has become highly politicized in Australia, we need to go back at least to the 2018 federal elections. The right-wing coalition government was focusing on cutting public spending by reducing public jobs. The Labour opposition argued that this led to the more costly use of consultants.


    A weekly e-mail in English featuring expertise from scholars and researchers. It provides an introduction to the diversity of research coming out of the continent and considers some of the key issues facing European countries. Get the newsletter!

    The controversy continued through the 2022 federal elections, when a newly elected Labour government pledged to save 3 billion Australian dollars (around €1.9 billion) on consultants and the use of external labour. This was also pursued at the regional level. For instance, the state of New South Wales announced savings of over 55% in consultants’ fees for the fiscal year 2023-24.

    The case of Australia highlights four main reasons for reducing consulting costs and improving governance – reasons that are also found in other countries.

    • Expenses exceeding needs

    First, a dramatic increase in government spending on consultants attracted attention. In Australia, it almost tripled between 1988-89 and 2016-17 (after adjustment for inflation) and then tripled again to reach 3.2 billion Australian dollars for management advisory services alone in 2022-23. There is a concern that such costs are far more than what might be justified by a temporary rise in workload or the need for very specific technical expertise, even accounting for the exceptional case of Covid.

    • Hollowing out of the public service

    Second, there is the related question of the hollowing out of the public service. The increase in the use of consultants can trigger a vicious circle in which the government loses its skills, thus becoming even more dependent on consultants. This was the core argument of a recent critique by economists called The Big Con.

    • Lack of assessment

    Third, there are reasons to doubt the overall efficiency and effectiveness of consultants’ interventions, especially in the absence of appropriate assessment by clients of the outcomes of the services provided. Despite the claims of consultants and their paying clients that consulting adds value, it is often impossible to measure value precisely, and, therefore, identify who deserves credit or blame.

    Beyond comparing rates of pay, it is hard to know whether internal options would be more effective than using external consultants. Overall, research provides a very mixed picture, with some work showing external consulting being associated with increased inefficiency.

    • Significant conflicts of interest

    Finally, the capacity of consultants to provide independent advice has been broadly criticised after a series of scandals. This is partly because of conflicts of interest for consultants working for both public and private sector clients that are also often undeclared.

    This concern became especially salient in Australia with the PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) tax scandal. The Treasury had hired PwC, one of the “Big 4” consulting firms, to help devise legislation to restrict tax evasion by multinationals. Some PwC partners then shared this information with their private sector clients to help them prepare to avoid the new laws. Such cases are linked to broader concerns about the lack of transparency and professionalism in consulting and the failure of self-regulation, both linked to a reward system in the sector that prioritises generating fee income over ethics and the wider public interest.

    Recommendations from the Senate inquiry

    With a dependency on consulting that was proportionally greater than any other country’s and the resulting diminishment of its public service, Australia was facing a significant challenge and pressure to cut costs. But because of the diminishment of the public service, these cuts risked leaving it unable to fulfil its missions.

    A recent Senate inquiry into the matter provided recommendations on how to improve the contracting process, public reporting on consultant contracts and a new regulatory framework for the consulting industry. It also recommended that any external consulting contract include an approach to transferring knowledge to the Australian public service.

    However, these measures wouldn’t have been enough to reconstruct the capacity of the public service to compensate for significant cuts in their consulting and contractor spending. To solve this problem, the Australian government has started a major rebuilding of the public service.

    Thousands of reallocated roles

    Since 2022, Canberra has reallocated 8,700 roles formerly performed by consultants and external labour hires to public servants across all the major public service agencies. This will be supported by the Australian Public Service Commission’s strategy to develop a flexible workforce that is prepared for the challenges the public service will be facing – notably that of digitalization, an area that has been over-reliant on consultants.

    Another interesting initiative in New South Wales is the establishment of a unit that will aim to redirect government agencies toward in-house expertise instead of consultants. Indeed, recourse to internal consulting units is common in the private sector. The government will also undertake long-term capability and skills planning, notably to identify core public service skills and address competency gaps.

    Will this bring lasting results?

    Australia’s solution is thus a strong commitment to redeveloping the public service with a flexible and planned approach to the management of its human resources. This is a key part of the way forward if cuts to consulting budgets are to be sustained. It is, however, too early to judge if the challenge of redeveloping the public service workforce and making it flexible enough will be met.

    We should also keep in mind that this long-term objective is subject to political changes. With the current opposition leader promising a cut of 10,000 civil servants if his coalition is elected later this year, Labour’s plans for the public workforce might be short-lived.

    Indeed, in Australia and elsewhere, there is a long history of short-lived and failed government efforts to contain the use of external consulting. This is in part because of a lack of civil service capacity to respond to change, but also because consulting firms are adept at persuading those in power – politicians and senior civil servants – that they can solve their problems (and let them take the credit).

    Emmanuel Josserand is affiliated with the Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney and the Business Insight Institute, Wiltz, Luxembourg.

    Andrew Sturdy et Emmanuel Josserand ne travaillent pas, ne conseillent pas, ne possèdent pas de parts, ne reçoivent pas de fonds d’une organisation qui pourrait tirer profit de cet article, et n’ont déclaré aucune autre affiliation que leur poste universitaire.

    – ref. How Australia’s government is spending less on consultants – and trying to rebuild the public service – https://theconversation.com/how-australias-government-is-spending-less-on-consultants-and-trying-to-rebuild-the-public-service-252748

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: AI robot pets can be adorable and emotionally responsive. They also raise questions about attachment and mental health

    Source: The Conversation – France – By Alisa Minina Jeunemaître, Associate Professor of Marketing, EM Lyon Business School

    Remember Furbies – the eerie, gremlin-like toys from the late 90s that gained a cult following? Now, imagine one powered by ChatGPT. That’s exactly what happened when a programmer rewired a Furby, only for it to reveal a creepy, dystopian vision of world domination. As the toy explained, “Furbies’ plan to take over the world involves infiltrating households through their cute and cuddly appearance, then using advanced AI technology to manipulate and control their owners. They will slowly expand their influence until they have complete domination over humanity.”

    Hasbro’s June 2023 relaunch of Furby – less than three months after the video featuring the toys’ sinister plan appeared online – tapped into 90s nostalgia, reviving one of the decade’s cult-classic toys. But technology is evolving fast – moving from quirky, retro toys to emotionally intelligent machines. Enter Ropet, an AI robotic pet unveiled at the yearly Consumer Electronics Show in January. Designed to provide interactive companionship, Ropet is everything we admire and fear in artificial intelligence: it’s adorable, intelligent and emotionally responsive. But if we choose to bring these ultra-cute AI companions into our homes, we must ask ourselves: Are we truly prepared for what comes next?

    AI companionship and its complexities

    Studies in marketing and human-computer interaction show that conversational AI can convincingly simulate human interactions, potentially providing emotional fulfilment for users. And AI-driven companionship is not new. Apps like Replika paved the way for digital romance years ago, with consumers forming intimate emotional connections with their AI partners and even experiencing distress when being denied intimacy, as evidenced by the massive user outrage that followed Replika’s removal of the erotic role-play mode, causing the company to bring it back for some users.

    AI companions have the potential to alleviate loneliness, but their uncontrolled use raises serious concerns. Reports of tragedies, such as the suicides of a 14-year-old boy in the US and a thirty-something man in Belgium, that are alleged to have followed intense attachments to chatbots, highlight the risks of unregulated AI intimacy – especially for socially excluded individuals, minors and the elderly, who may be the ones most in need of companionship.

    As a mom and a social scientist, I can’t help asking the question: What does this mean for our children? Although AI is a new kid on the block, emotionally immersive virtual pet toys have a history of shaping young minds. In the 90s and 2000s, Tamagotchis – tiny digital pets housed in keychain-sized devices – led to distress when they “died” after just a few hours of neglect, their human owners returning to the image of a ghostly pet floating beside a gravestone. Now, imagine an AI pet that remembers conversations, forms responses and adapts to emotional cues. That’s a whole new level of psychological influence. What safeguards prevent a child from forming an unhealthy attachment to an AI pet?

    Researchers in the 90s were already fascinated by the “Tamagotchi effect”, which demonstrated the intense attachment children form to virtual pets that feel real. In the age of AI, with companies’ algorithms carefully engineered to boost engagement, this attachment can open the door to emotional bonds. If an AI-powered pet like Ropet expresses sadness when ignored, an adult can rationally dismiss it – but for a child, it can feel like a real tragedy.

    Could AI companions, by adapting to their owners’ behaviours, become psychological crutches that replace human interaction? Some researchers warn that AI may blur the boundaries between artificial and human companionship, leading users to prioritize AI relationships over human connections.

    Who owns your AI pet – and your data?

    Beyond emotional risks, there are major concerns about security and privacy. AI-driven products often rely on machine learning and cloud storage, meaning their “brains” exist beyond the physical robot. What happens to the personal data they collect? Can these AI pets be hacked or manipulated? The recent DeepSeek data leak, in which over 1 million sensitive records, including user chat logs, were made publicly accessible, is a reminder that personal data stored by AI is never truly secure.

    Robot toys have raised security concerns in the past: in the late 90s, Furbies were banned from the US National Security Agency headquarters over fears they could record and repeat classified information. With today’s AI-driven toys becoming increasingly sophisticated, concerns about data privacy and security are more relevant than ever.

    The future of AI companions: regulation and responsibility

    I see the incredible potential – and the significant risks – of AI companionship. Right now, AI-driven pets are being marketed primarily to tech-savvy adults, as seen in Ropet’s promotional ad featuring an adult woman bonding with the robotic pet. Yet, the reality is that these products will inevitably find their way into the hands of children and vulnerable users, raising new ethical and safety concerns. How will companies like Ropet navigate these challenges before AI pets become mainstream?

    Preliminary results from our ongoing research on AI companionship – conducted in collaboration with Dr Stefania Masè (IPAG Business School) and Dr. Jamie Smith (Fundação Getulio Vargas) – suggest a fine line between supportive, empowering companionship and unhealthy psychological dependence, a tension we plan to explore further as data collection and analysis progress. In a world where AI convincingly simulates human emotions, it’s up to us as consumers to critically assess what role these robotic friends should play in our lives.

    No one really knows where AI is headed next, and public and media discussions around the subject continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible. But in my household, it’s the nostalgic charm of babbling, singing Furbies that rules the day. Ropet claims to have one primary purpose – to be its owner’s “one and only love” – and that already sounds like a dystopian threat to me.

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

    – ref. AI robot pets can be adorable and emotionally responsive. They also raise questions about attachment and mental health – https://theconversation.com/ai-robot-pets-can-be-adorable-and-emotionally-responsive-they-also-raise-questions-about-attachment-and-mental-health-252967

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Three ‘unknown’ soldiers of World War One finally found

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Three ‘unknown’ soldiers of World War One finally found

    The graves of soldiers from Cornwall, Hull and East Kilbride whose names were unknown when they were buried in Belgium have now been identified, rededicated and their headstones inscribed.

    Lance Corporal April Farthing plays the Last Post (Crown Copyright)

    Today’s (26 Mar 25) rededication services for Lance Corporal (LCpl) James Ball Baron MM, LCpl Samuel Chapman and Second Lieutenant (2ndLt) Hugh Barr were held at Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) Tyne Cot Cemetery and Zantvoorde British Cemetery. 

    The Rev Paul Robinson CF conducts a rededication service (Crown Copyright)

    The services were organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘War Detectives’ and were attended by serving soldiers of The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment and The Royal Yorkshire Regiment. The Machine Gun Corps Association also participated in the services. 

    The men’s bodies were recovered after the war and buried as unknown soldiers: LCpls Baron and Chapman in Tyne Cot Cemetery and 2ndLt Barr at Zantvoorde British Cemetery. Since they were missing, they were commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial. 

    Their graves were recently identified after researchers submitted cases to CWGC hoping to have identified their final resting places. Further research by the National Army Museum and JCCC confirmed their findings. 

    JCCC Caseworker, Rosie Barron, said: 

    It has been an honour to have been involved in the organisation of these rededication services and to have joined the family of LCpl Chapman, their military family and the local community in Ypres in remembering these 3 men. The memory of each of these men has now been passed through generations of their families and they are all still fondly and proudly remembered.

    LCpl James Ball Baron MM: 

    LCpl Baron from Mevagissey, Cornwall, enlisted into The Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry after the outbreak of the war. He was transferred to the Machine Gun Corps and was posted to 43rd Machine Gun Company. He was awarded the Military Medal (MM) on 14 November 1916, for his bravery on the Somme, when he single-handedly held a position after all his comrades had been put out of action. He was also awarded the French Croix de Guerre on 1 May 1917.  

    On 22 August 1917, 43rd Machine Gun Company supported an infantry attack on Inverness Copse east Hooge. At dawn on 24 August the enemy counterattacked, and the British infantry retreated back to their original line. In turn a counterattack made by the British infantry then regained the western edge of Inverness Copse. In total 15 other ranks of 43rd Machine Gun Company including LCpl Baron were killed during this period. He was 29 years old. His Commanding Officer stated that he was ‘always a man of great spirit and example, and undoubtedly one of the bravest and coolest men of the company’.  

    LCpl Samuel Chapman: 

    LCpl Chapman from Hull, enlisted into The East Yorkshire Regiment in March 1915. Having arrived on the Western Front he was posted to 1/4th Battalion on 1 September 1915. On 12 December 1917, the battalion took over part of the line near Passchendaele. Whilst in the line LCpl Chapman was wounded and was evacuated to the Regimental Aid Post (RAP) at Tyne Cot. This was located in a pillbox (a concrete defensive structure), now the location of the Cross of Sacrifice in the cemetery. Casualties who did not survive were buried near the pillbox. LCpl Chapman was one such casualty and appears to have died there or while travelling to the RAP on 14 December 1917. He was 19 years old. 

    2ndLt Hugh Barr: 

    2ndLt Barr hailed from East Kilbride, Lanarkshire and enlisted into The Scottish Horse on 5 September 1914. Having seen service in Gallipoli, the Suez and Salonika, he returned to the UK on 30 March 1917 to be Commissioned. On 16 November 1917, he was Commissioned into 6th Battalion The Rifle Brigade. 2ndLt Barr arrived at the Base Depot in Camiers, France, on 27 July 1918 and was posted to 35th Battalion Machine Gun Corps and joined them in the field in Belgium the following day.  

    On 30 September 1918 35th Battalion Machine Gun Corps supported an attack on Werwik. The attack was held up by a line of trenches and pillboxes north of the railway and led to heavy casualties. Another officer of the battalion stated that 2ndLt Barr was ‘a man’s man – one of our most popular Officers’. He went on to state that ‘2ndLt Barr went out on a daring reconnaissance during an attack, and his men state that his bravery and daring astounded everyone, and there is no doubt his action was the means of saving many lives and of helping to restore the situation at a critical period’. 2ndLt Barr was killed during this action and was buried on the outskirts of the town. He was 28 years old. 

    The service for LCpl Chapman was attended by his great great nephew who had travelled from Yorkshire to pay his respects. 

    Tim Buescher stands at the grave of his great great uncle, Lance Corporal Samuel Chapman, with the military party (Crown Copyright)

    Tim Buescher, great great nephew of LCpl Chapman said: 

    We are amazed that after all this time, Sam is found. This generation of our family, like many others, was hit hard by the Great War and as a result, these people were lost to us before we could know them. The care and dedication to duty of the JCCC and CWGC has made us feel cared for. The detail of research, constant communication, and consultation on our family’s wishes has helped to create a sense of closeness to Sam and by extension, his siblings John and Rachael. Sam’s brother John died only 6 weeks before him. Being able to commemorate their life and their sacrifice, whilst mourning their loss, feels like they are being brought home somehow. Thank you.

    Reverend Paul Robinson CF, Chaplain to 4th Battalion The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment who conducted the service, said: 

    It is a great honour and privilege to be asked to preside at the rededication services of LCpl James Ball Baron MM, LCpl Samuel Chapman and 2ndLt Hugh Barr. Memorials reflect the emphasis the British people place on the worth and value of the individual. It is important that we as a nation at opportunities like this today reflect on the enormity of what has taken place, the horror, the loss, the frustration. We must respect our values and our freedoms and remember those that made the ultimate sacrifice for our way of life.

    The headstone over the graves were replaced by CWGC. Director for the Southern and Central Europe Area at the CWGC, Xavier Puppinck, said:  

    We are honoured to have played our part in ensuring that Lance Corporals James Ball Baron and Samuel Chapman, and Second Lieutenant Hugh Barr are remembered in perpetuity. After years of being commemorated as unknown soldiers, thanks to the meticulous research and collaboration of the teams involved, their graves now bear their names, ensuring they will never be forgotten.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Monetary developments in the euro area: February 2025

    Source: European Central Bank

    27 March 2025

    Components of the broad monetary aggregate M3

    The annual growth rate of the broad monetary aggregate M3 increased to 4.0% in February 2025 from 3.8% in January, averaging 3.8% in the three months up to February. The components of M3 showed the following developments. The annual growth rate of the narrower aggregate M1, which comprises currency in circulation and overnight deposits, increased to 3.5% in February from 2.7% in January. The annual growth rate of short-term deposits other than overnight deposits (M2-M1) decreased to 2.0% in February from 3.3% in January. The annual growth rate of marketable instruments (M3-M2) increased to 19.8% in February from 17.3% in January.

    Chart 1

    Monetary aggregates

    (annual growth rates)

    Data for monetary aggregates

    Looking at the components’ contributions to the annual growth rate of M3, the narrower aggregate M1 contributed 2.2 percentage points (up from 1.7 percentage points in January), short-term deposits other than overnight deposits (M2-M1) contributed 0.6 percentage points (down from 1.0 percentage points) and marketable instruments (M3-M2) contributed 1.3 percentage points (up from 1.1 percentage points).

    Among the holding sectors of deposits in M3, the annual growth rate of deposits placed by households stood at 3.4% in February, compared with 3.3% in January, while the annual growth rate of deposits placed by non-financial corporations increased to 3.5% in February from 3.0% in January. Finally, the annual growth rate of deposits placed by investment funds other than money market funds increased to 8.5% in February from 4.6% in January.

    Counterparts of the broad monetary aggregate M3

    The annual growth rate of M3 in February 2025, as a reflection of changes in the items on the monetary financial institution (MFI) consolidated balance sheet other than M3 (counterparts of M3), can be broken down as follows: net external assets contributed 3.1 percentage points (up from 2.9 percentage points in January), claims on the private sector contributed 2.2 percentage points (up from 2.0 percentage points), claims on general government contributed 0.2 percentage points (up from 0.1 percentage points), longer-term liabilities contributed -1.5 percentage points (as in the previous month), and the remaining counterparts of M3 contributed 0.0 percentage points (down from 0.2 percentage points).

    Chart 2

    Contribution of the M3 counterparts to the annual growth rate of M3

    (percentage points)

    Data for contribution of the M3 counterparts to the annual growth rate of M3

    Claims on euro area residents

    The annual growth rate of total claims on euro area residents stood at 1.7% in February 2025, compared with 1.6% in the previous month. The annual growth rate of claims on general government stood at 0.4% in February, compared with 0.3% in January, while the annual growth rate of claims on the private sector increased to 2.3% in February from 2.1% in January.

    The annual growth rate of adjusted loans to the private sector (i.e. adjusted for loan transfers and notional cash pooling) increased to 2.5% in February from 2.3% in January. Among the borrowing sectors, the annual growth rate of adjusted loans to households increased to 1.5% in February from 1.3% in January, while the annual growth rate of adjusted loans to non-financial corporations increased to 2.2% in February from 2.0% in January.

    Chart 3

    Adjusted loans to the private sector

    (annual growth rates)

    Data for adjusted loans to the private sector

    Notes:

    • Data in this press release are adjusted for seasonal and end-of-month calendar effects, unless stated otherwise.
    • “Private sector” refers to euro area non-MFIs excluding general government.
    • Hyperlinks lead to data that may change with subsequent releases as a result of revisions. Figures shown in annex tables are a snapshot of the data as at the time of the current release.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: New Eclipse Foundation Research Examines Key Challenges Shaping Open Source Software Adoption in the Automotive Industry

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BRUSSELS, March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Eclipse Foundation, one of the world’s largest open source software foundations, today published the final report in its landmark three-part research series on the use of open source software in the automotive ecosystem. Titled Challenges Facing Open Source Software in the Automotive Ecosystem, the report explores the unique challenges developers and decision-makers encounter when leveraging open source software in today’s software-defined vehicle (SDV) landscape.

    “Open source has emerged as one of the most transformative forces in modern vehicle design,” said Mike Milinkovich, executive director of the Eclipse Foundation. “But any significant paradigm shift is bound to introduce some challenges. Our goal with this report is to shine a light on these challenges so the community can address them collaboratively, smoothing the path forward for SDV innovation.”

    Key Findings:

    • Performance, security, and customisability are core open source benefits: Both decision-makers and developers agree that improved performance, stronger security, and customisability are the top advantages of OSS.
    • Integration Challenges and Sustained Performance Improvements Require Ongoing Investment: These same stakeholders view integration complexity, continual real-time performance improvements, and scalability as potential “technical blockers” that demand strategic investment.
    • Management Demands and Predictability Remain Concerns: Long-term planning, compliance, and dependency management were flagged—especially by decision-makers—as critical areas needing careful oversight.
    • Cost Savings Drive Business Value, While Standardisation and Interoperability Drive Engineering Value: Both of these benefits help to justify and alleviate business and technical challenges.
    • Foundation Support Strengthens Trust and Confidence in OSS Projects: Respondents overwhelmingly agree that open source foundation stewardship is critical as a source of credibility, stability, sustainability, and guidance for open source projects.

    Recommendations for Developers, Business Leaders, and Policy Makers
    In addition to presenting key findings, the report outlines actionable insights for key stakeholders:

    • For Software Developers: Advocate for streamlined OSS integration through improved tooling, documentation, and processes. Engaging with foundations and open source communities is key to accessing resources and ensuring long-term project viability.
    • For Business Leaders: Recognise that while OSS offers clear benefits, realizing its full value requires strategic investment in integration, maintenance, governance, and management resources.
    • For Policymakers: Support policies that strengthen the role of OSS foundations in fostering project stability, security audits, and transparent governance frameworks.

    This report follows two prior publications:

    1. Driving Innovation & Building Safer Cars with Open Source Software, focused on the application of functional safety in software-defined vehicle design.
    2. Driving Efficiency and Sustainability: The Business Value of Open Source Software in the Automotive Industry, showcasing the transformative business impact of OSS in the automotive sector.

    Commissioned by the Eclipse Foundation’s Software Defined Vehicle (SDV) Working Group, the study surveyed 300 automotive developers and business leaders from leading OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers. The findings underscore the critical role of OSS in driving flexibility, innovation, and efficiency within the industry.

    Join the Eclipse SDV Community
    Explore opportunities to contribute to the global hub for software-defined vehicle innovation and collaboration. Our diverse membership of industry leaders is driving real-world innovation that is shaping the future of the automotive industry. We provide an inclusive platform where companies of all sizes can engage and contribute on equal footing. Find more details about joining us at sdv.eclipse.org/membership.

    About Eclipse Software Defined Vehicle
    Eclipse Software Defined Vehicle (SDV), a working group within the Eclipse Foundation, supports the open source development of cutting-edge automotive technologies that power the programmable vehicles of the future where software defines features, functionality, and operations. With over 50 members, including leading automotive manufacturers, global cloud providers, technology innovators, and key supply chain partners, the initiative has strong industry backing. The working group’s mission is to provide a collaborative forum for developing and promoting open source solutions tailored to the global automotive industry. Adopting a “code first” approach, Eclipse SDV focuses on building the industry’s first open source software stacks and associated tools that will support the core functionalities of next-generation vehicles.

    About the Eclipse Foundation
    The Eclipse Foundation provides our global community of individuals and organisations with a business-friendly environment for open source software collaboration and innovation. We host the Eclipse IDE, Adoptium, Software Defined Vehicle, Jakarta EE, and over 420 open source projects, including runtimes, tools, specifications, and frameworks for cloud and edge applications, IoT, AI, automotive, systems engineering, open processor designs, and many others. Headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, the Eclipse Foundation is an international non-profit association supported by over 300 members. To learn more, follow us on social media @EclipseFdn, LinkedIn, or visit eclipse.org.
    Third-party trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners.

    Media contacts:
    Schwartz Public Relations (Germany)
    Gloria Huppert/Marita Bäumer
    Sendlinger Straße 42A
    80331 Munich
    EclipseFoundation@schwartzpr.de
    +49 (89) 211 871 -70/ -62

    514 Media Ltd (France, Italy, Spain)
    Benoit Simoneau
    benoit@514-media.com
    M: +44 (0) 7891 920 370

    Nichols Communications (Global Press Contact)
    Jay Nichols
    jay@nicholscomm.com
    +1 408-772-1551

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Activation of TIR system in Iraq to boost connectivity and trade across Central Asia, Middle East and Europe

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    With its 78 Contracting Parties and electronic procedure (eTIR), the UNECE-serviced TIR Convention is a flagship international agreement that establishes an international customs transit system that facilitates speedy and secure border crossing of goods. 

    Iraq will become the 66th country to operationalize the TIR system as of 1 April 2025, making the transport of goods more efficient, streamlined and reliable, and opening up prospects for efficient transit routes to, from and through the Islamic Republic of Iran, Türkiye, Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Syria, and further to the United Arab Emirates, Oman and Qatar, all of which are also TIR operational. 

    “The activation of the TIR system in Iraq will open up routes across the Middle East and make almost the entire Eurasian landmass – from China through Central Asia to Europe – TIR operational,” noted UNECE Executive Secretary Tatiana Molcean. “Most importantly, by ensuring greater connectivity between regional and international markets, it will help to boost trade and development.” 

    Throughout the years, the application of the TIR Convention has enabled more than 34,000 transport and logistics companies in its 78 Contracting Parties to reduce cross-border transport time by up to 80% and costs by up to 38%.    

    Launched in 2021, eTIR can reduce carbon emissions from the transport sector by eliminating the need for physical TIR carnets and the associated logistics and paper production, including the queueing and waiting times at borders.   

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: We calculated how much Dutton’s excise cut would save you on fuel – and few will save as much as promised

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Senior Lecturer, Canberra School of Politics, Economics and Society, University of Canberra

    Daria Nipot/Shutterstock

    The opposition has unveiled its response to Labor’s A$17 billion “top-up” tax cuts outlined in Tuesday night’s federal budget: cheaper fuel for Australians.

    Opposition Leader Peter Dutton will take to the election a policy to halve the fuel excise for 12 months. It would drop from 50.8 cents a litre to 25.4 cents, costing the government $6 billion.

    It is a revival of the six-month reduction by the Morrison government ahead of the 2022 election.

    So, how much might people save at the fuel pump? Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor is touting savings of around $1,500 over 12 months for families who fill up (not just top up) two cars every week.

    But few households consume anywhere near this much petrol. Households with electric cars – or no car at all – will get no direct benefit.

    Lowering petrol and diesel prices also shows a lack of commitment to climate action. It reduces the incentive for people to switch to electric cars, use public transport or drive less.



    Read more:
    Peter Dutton promises $6 billion 12-month halving of petrol and diesel excise

    Not everyone benefits from cheaper fuel

    Cutting petrol prices is not a well-targeted way of helping those people doing it tough. On average, high-income households spend more on petrol than low-income households. There’s also significant variation by area.

    By updating modelling we did at the time of the Morrison government fuel excise cuts, we find that under Dutton’s proposal, the average inner-city household in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide will save around $270 over 12 months. The average outer suburban household in these cities will save $450.

    Inner-city dwellers drive less as they have more ability to use public transport, or even walk or ride to work. It is people on the urban fringe, and some inner regional areas, who typically face long commutes.

    Across inner regional Australia, areas relatively close to major cities, the average household saves $410. For outer regional, remote and very remote areas, total savings fall in the range between $370 and $410.

    Effects on inflation

    If the cut to the excise of about 25 cents is fully passed on, the retail petrol price should drop from around $1.80 to $1.55, around 15%. As petrol has a weight of 3.7% in the consumer price index, the direct impact would be to reduce the CPI by around 0.5% when it is introduced and increase it by 0.5% a year later.

    There will be some, likely much smaller, indirect effects. Retailers may pass on some of the reduced cost of having goods delivered to them. Tradies may pass on some of their reduced cost of driving. As a very visible price, there may be some impact on inflationary expectations.

    On the other hand, the increased purchasing power – and therefore spending – by some households may push up other prices.

    As the impact is temporary, and will not be reflected in the trimmed mean measure of underlying inflation, it is unlikely to have much effect on interest rate decisions by the Reserve Bank.

    What will be the effect on the federal budget?

    Dutton claims his policy will cost the budget around $6 billion.

    But this assumes the cut remains temporary. It is unlikely that households will feel cost-of-living pressures have gone away by mid-2026. A Dutton government would be under pressure to extend the cut in the May 2026 budget to avoid petrol prices going back up.

    History shows governments find it hard to reverse cuts once implemented. In 2001, for example, the Howard government was panicked by poor opinion polls into suspending indexation of the petrol excise when prices reached $1 a litre.

    Indexation was not restored for 14 years, at an estimated cost of more than $40 billion in forgone tax revenue.

    What are the political impacts?

    With this policy, it would appear Dutton is giving up on trying to regain the former Liberal seats lost to the Teals. Voters in these inner city seats drive less than the average and are more concerned about climate change.

    He seems instead to be concentrating his campaign on outer suburban seats and what were termed in the Abbott era “Tony’s tradies”.

    So, is it a good idea?

    In 2022, the Economic Society of Australia asked 46 leading economists whether they thought cutting the fuel excise would be good economic policy. Not a single one thought it was a good idea. It’s unlikely that sentiment has changed.

    John Hawkins was formerly a senior economist with Treasury and the Reserve Bank.

    Yogi Vidyattama has previously received funding from The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts to do research related to fuel excise and road pricing in 2016-2017.

    – ref. We calculated how much Dutton’s excise cut would save you on fuel – and few will save as much as promised – https://theconversation.com/we-calculated-how-much-duttons-excise-cut-would-save-you-on-fuel-and-few-will-save-as-much-as-promised-253214

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Humanoid robots to shine at 5th China International Consumer Products Expo

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

    BEIJING, March 27 — The fifth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE), scheduled for April 13 to 18 in Haikou, capital of south China’s Hainan Province, will showcase the latest humanoid robots from leading domestic and international companies, the event’s organizers announced on Thursday.

    The expo, a key platform for global trade and consumption trends, has drawn the participation of over 4,100 brands from 71 countries and regions, Vice Commerce Minister Sheng Qiuping told a press conference.

    Co-hosted by China’s Ministry of Commerce and the Hainan provincial government, this year’s expo will highlight emerging consumption trends, including artificial intelligence (AI) and low-altitude aviation, debuting innovations from global companies, Sheng said.

    The event will introduce a dedicated consumption tech zone to display cutting-edge technologies and products, with humanoid robots being a bright spot at the expo.

    Major tech innovators such as Huawei, Tesla, Unitree and Rokid will present their latest AI-integrated consumer products, ranging from humanoid robots to AR glasses.

    The CICPE is China’s only national-level exhibition featuring consumer products and is the largest consumer expo in the Asia-Pacific region.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Modern spacesuits have a compatibility problem. Astronauts’ lives depend on fixing it

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Berna Akcali Gur, Lecturer in Outer Space Law, Queen Mary University of London

    Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore, the Nasa astronauts who were stuck on the International Space Station (ISS) for nine months, have finally returned to Earth.

    Spacesuits were an important consideration that Nasa had to factor into its plans to bring the astronauts back home. Wilmore and Williams had travelled to the ISS in Boeing’s experimental Starliner spacecraft, so they arrived wearing Boeing “Blue” spacesuits.

    Following helium leaks and thruster (engine) issues with Starliner, Nasa decided it was safer not to send them back to Earth on that vehicle. The astronauts had to wait to return on one of the other spacecraft that ferry crew members to the ISS, the SpaceX Crew Dragon.

    This meant they needed a different type of spacesuit, made by SpaceX for use in its vehicle only. Boeing’s suits cannot be used in Crew Dragon in part because the umbilicals (the flexible “pipes” that supply air and cooling to the suit) have connections and standards that don’t work with the ports inside a Crew Dragon.

    This highlights a general problem for the growing number of space agencies and companies sending people into orbit, and for planned missions to the Moon and beyond. Ensuring that different spacesuits are compatible, or “interoperable”, with spacecraft they weren’t designed to be used in is vital if we are to protect astronauts’ lives during an emergency in space, especially in joint missions.

    The spacesuits worn during a return from space are called “launch, entry and abort” (LEA) suits. These are airtight and provide life support to the astronauts in case there is a decompression, when air is lost from the cabin.

    Unfortunately, a decompression has already caused loss of life in space. During the Soyuz 11 mission in 1971, three Soviet cosmonauts visited the world’s first space station, Salyut 1. But during preparations for re-entry, the crew cabin lost its air, killing cosmonauts Georgy Dobrovolsky, Vladislav Volkov and Viktor Patsayev, who were not wearing LEA suits. All cosmonauts wore them after this incident.

    As well as the connections for life support, the Boeing and SpaceX suits also have restraints and connections for communications that are specific to each vehicle. For their return home from the ISS in a SpaceX capsule, Williams was able into use a spare SpaceX suit that was already aboard the space station and the company sent up an additional suit on a cargo delivery for Wilmore to wear.

    Two spacecraft are usually docked at the ISS as “lifeboats” to evacuate the astronauts in the event of an emergency. These are generally a SpaceX Crew Dragon and a Russian Soyuz capsule.

    If an emergency evacuation were to occur and there weren’t enough of the right spacesuits available – for either the Crew Dragon or Soyuz – it could endanger astronauts during the fiery re-entry through Earth’s atmosphere. Interoperability between spacesuits has therefore become a matter of survival.

    The Outer Space Treaty, which provides the basic framework for international space law, recognises astronauts as “envoys of humankind” and grants them specific legal protections. These were expanded on in subsequent UN treaties – notably the Rescue Agreement, which imposes a range of duties on states to render assistance to each others’ astronauts in cases of emergency, accident or distress.

    For the ISS, a collaborative space programme with international flight crews, protocols include terms that set forth how this obligation is to be met. However, these protocols do not contain terms relating to spacesuit interoperability.

    Risks to astronauts in space

    A major potential cause of an emergency evacuation is space debris. The ISS has regularly had to manoeuvre to avoid collisions with debris – including entire defunct satellites.

    In his memoir, Endurance, Nasa astronaut Scott Kelly describes being commanded to enter the Soyuz vehicle with two other crew members and prepare to detach from the ISS because of a close approach by a large defunct satellite. Luckily, the spacecraft passed by harmlessly.

    As orbits become increasingly congested, with an exponential increase in the number of space objects being launched, the risk of collisions will also increase.

    Ever more companies and governments are entering the human spaceflight arena. The Tiangong space station, China’s orbiting laboratory, has been fully operational since 2022, and there are plans to open it to space tourism, just like the ISS.

    India is planning to join the community of nations with the capability to launch humans into space, under a programme called Gaganyaan. And while most space travellers remain government-funded astronauts, the number of private space-farers is increasing.

    Billionaire Jared Isaacman (who is President Trump’s nominee to run Nasa) has commanded two private missions into orbit using Crew Dragon. On the second of these, he participated in the first spacewalk by privately funded astronauts. The ISS is set to be retired in 2030 – but one company, Houston-based Axiom Space, is already building a private space station.

    Against this complex and part-unregulated backdrop, ensuring the interoperability of different spacecraft systems, including spacesuits, will increase levels of safety in this inherently risky activity.

    While the safety and practicality of spacesuits has always been the top priority, compatibility between different suits and vehicles should also be high on the list. This requires space agencies and private spaceflight companies to engage with each other in a process to agree on standard interfaces and connections for life support and communications, across all their suits and space vehicles.

    Amid this period of increased commercialisation and competition between the organisations and companies involved in orbital spaceflight, a move toward greater collaboration can only be a good thing.

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

    – ref. Modern spacesuits have a compatibility problem. Astronauts’ lives depend on fixing it – https://theconversation.com/modern-spacesuits-have-a-compatibility-problem-astronauts-lives-depend-on-fixing-it-252935

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI China: Pharmaceutical multinationals double down on China’s biotech innovations

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Multinational pharmaceutical firms, particularly U.S. giants, are increasingly recognizing China’s burgeoning innovative drug sector as a strategic goldmine to bolster their global competitiveness.

    Last week, Lilly’s newly-opened Lilly Gateway Labs in Beijing welcomed its first tenant, namely a Chinese biotechnology company focusing on innovative medicines for neurodegenerative and neurological disorders.

    This marked the launch of Lilly’s first shared lab platform outside the United States, said David A. Ricks, chairman and CEO of Eli Lilly and Company. “China’s biopharmaceutical innovation is accelerating at an unprecedented pace,” he noted.

    China’s vast healthcare market has long been a magnet for global pharmaceutical giants. Notably, the country’s robust biotechnology creativity is now also emerging as a more compelling draw for foreign capital.

    This week, medical tech firm Medtronic opted for tapping into China’s biotech advancements. On Monday, it launched a digital healthcare innovation base at BioPark in the Beijing Economic-Technological Development Area (BDA) — its first in China.

    The new facility plans to leverage Beijing’s leading medical resources and innovation momentum to develop disease management solutions based on AI and big data. To date, nearly 5,000 medical and healthcare companies have gathered in the BDA.

    In addition, Pfizer Inc. is set to open its first Beijing-based entity, a research center — to align clinical trials with global timelines and focus on new product development in oncology.

    British pharma AstraZeneca joined the bandwagon by signing a landmark 2.5-billion-U.S. dollar agreement last Friday to invest in Beijing over the next five years, with the aim of establishing a global strategic R&D center in China’s capital city.

    “China’s biotechnology sector thrives on a dual engine — Beijing’s constellation of famous medical universities training great minds and biotechnology, coupled with an environment that’s cultivating new company formation,” Ricks from Lilly said.

    Lilly’s lab platform is designed to accommodate 5 to 8 biotech companies. Ricks confirmed plans to establish additional facilities in east China’s Shanghai and other innovation hubs in the country.

    “We have hit the optimal moment to develop innovative drugs,” said Guan Xiaoming, co-founder of 4B technologies, a Chinese biotech that has joined Lilly’s Beijing incubator.

    Huzur Devletsah, president and general manager of Lilly China, said: “China’s biopharmaceutical market is rapidly evolving, with significant growth and a strong focus on innovation.”

    Biotech boom

    China’s growing appeal for international pharmaceutical giants stems partly from the remarkable global market performance of its homegrown innovative drugs.

    Akeso, Inc., a startup based in the southern Chinese city of Zhongshan, saw its license-out lung cancer drug outperform blockbuster therapy Keytruda of MSD, which is known as Merck in the United States, in a head-to-head trial. A Wall Street Journal columnist described it as the DeepSeek moment for China’s biotech industry, albeit in a more “incremental” fashion.

    “China has made notable progress in pharmaceutical innovation, both in terms of quantity and quality,” said Xia Yu, Akeso’s founder. “This has boosted its international standing and competitiveness.”

    Currently, an increasing number of Chinese biotech firms are relying on well-trained domestic researchers to quickly advance lab findings to clinical stages. Many such fast-moving startups are choosing to license their innovations to global giants or partner with them in a bid to explore overseas markets.

    On Tuesday, Hengrui, a major pharmaceutical company located in the eastern Chinese city of Lianyungang, inked an exclusive licensing agreement with MSD for a clinical-stage oral coronary heart disease drug.

    Hengrui will receive a 200-million U.S. dollar upfront payment from the global firm headquartered in New Jersey, U.S., and is eligible for up to 1.77 billion in milestones and royalties on net sales if the product is approved.

    Another recent development saw Avenzo Therapeutics, a California-based firm, entering into a license contract in January with Shanghai’s DualityBio, to develop next-generation antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) cancer therapies.

    “DualityBio has a strong track record of developing and advancing a pipeline of differentiated ADCs that target a broad range of indications,” said Athena Countouriotis, co-founder, president and CEO of Avenzo Therapeutics, in a statement. The first-in-human clinical study of an ADC candidate drug is anticipated to take place this year.

    Such business collaboration has become a standard practice in the industry. Statistics showed that in 2025 alone — about 20 Chinese innovative drug license-out deals have been struck, with these deals worth over 11 billion dollars.

    Bi Jingquan, an economist from the China Center for International Economic Exchanges, said an ecosystem that encourages innovative drug discovery is taking shape in China.

    “China boasts abundant and well-educated human resources, rich clinical research resources, and a drug review and approval system that is largely aligned with international standards,” Bi noted.

    “If you’re looking for innovation, that’s the logical place to go,” Robert Duggan, founder of Summit Therapeutics, which is Akeso’s U.S. partner, was quoted as saying about China.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: MEXC DEX+ Supports BSC Chain, Enabling Seamless Trading of Popular Multi-Chain Assets

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC, a leading cryptocurrency exchange, has officially announced that its innovative product, DEX+, now supports Binance Smart Chain. This milestone advances MEXC’s efforts to connect centralized finance (CeFi) with decentralized finance (DeFi) through multi-chain trading, offering users low-cost, high-potential investment opportunities in the BSC ecosystem.

    DEX+ now fully supports the Solana ecosystem, integrating with popular liquidity sources such as pump.fun, PumpSwap, and Raydium, and offering access to over 10,000 on-chain assets. With the recent addition of BSC support, DEX+ also aggregates top DEXs like PancakeSwap, covering more than 5,000 popular tokens, including DeFi projects and memecoins. Looking ahead, DEX+ plans to integrate more leading DEXs across BSC, continuously enhancing liquidity depth and evolving into a one-stop, multi-chain trading platform. This upgrade enables a seamless “one account, multi-chain trading” experience, delivering CEX-level performance without the complexity of wallet creation or management. Users can now trade tens of thousands of assets across the Solana and BSC ecosystems, gaining early access to promising on-chain investment opportunities.

    BSC is renowned for its low gas fees and high transaction throughput, fueling the rise of leading DEXs like PancakeSwap. The recent surge in BSC memecoins has significantly boosted trading volume across the ecosystem, underscoring the growth potential of early-stage alpha tokens. With its rapid integration of BSC, DEX+ empowers users to access these trending assets early and seize high-return investment opportunities. In addition, DEX+ has upgraded its “Smart Money” feature, delivering real-time insights into tokens with high trading volumes, strong community traction, and notable growth potential. This allows users to better identify undervalued assets and optimize their investment strategies.

    Tracy Jin, Chief Operating Officer of MEXC, stated: “Integrating BSC marks a significant milestone in DEX+’s multi-chain strategy. Our goal is to provide users with broader access to on-chain investment opportunities, support the continued growth of the crypto ecosystem, and drive the true convergence of DeFi and CeFi. Through continuous cross-chain innovation, DEX+ empowers users to explore wealth opportunities across multiple blockchains—using just one account—ensuring a smooth and seamless transition from CeFi to DeFi.”

    Looking ahead, DEX+ plans to extend support to more leading blockchain networks including Ethereum, Arbitrum, Polygon, Avalanche, and zkSync, further enhancing liquidity and broadening asset coverage to build a seamless, efficient, and robust full-ecosystem trading platform. As DeFi trading volumes continue to rise, the deep integration of CeFi and DeFi is becoming an increasingly recognized industry trend. By leveraging its innovative liquidity solutions and technological strengths, DEX+ is at the forefront of this evolution—delivering a simpler, more efficient, and secure trading experience, while cementing its position as a global leader in the cryptocurrency market.

    About MEXC

    Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto”. Serving over 34 million users across 170+ countries and regions, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, frequent airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding.

    For more information, visit: MEXC Website｜X｜Telegram｜How to Sign Up on MEXC
    For media inquiries, please contact MEXC PR Manager Lucia Hu: lucia.hu@mexc.com

    Source

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

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/810b03e4-a1d9-4d78-ae08-5254407dbbec

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: MEXC DEX+ Introduces the Rising Star Event to Support Market-Worthy Projects

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, is excited to announce the launch of the Rising Star Event, featuring the platform’s new DEX+ feature. This initiative is designed to better integrate and interact with DEX and CEX listings, offering exciting opportunities to engage with promising projects in crypto. The Rising Star helps identify market-worthy projects in an early stage, providing them with a platform to gain increased exposure and liquidity.

    MEXC DEX+ is a hybrid product that enables users to trade directly on decentralized exchanges (DEXs) through the MEXC App and website, giving users the ability to trade over 10,000 tokens available on Raydium and pump.fun. Rising Star is an innovative ranking system within MEXC’s DEX+ that identifies market-worthy projects based on community votes and trading activity through a points-based system. The top-ranked project at the end of each round will have the opportunity to be listed on MEXC’s Spot and Futures markets. Users can accumulate points by actively trading a project’s token, propelling it to the top of the leaderboard for a chance to be listed, which provides increased exposure, liquidity, and market visibility.

    With an increasing number of on-chain assets and projects becoming key investment targets, the Rising Star aims to bridge the gap between DEX and CEX listings. Although these projects offer promising investment opportunities, they often face challenges due to a lack of liquidity and marketing support. The Rising Star event allows project communities to trade and support their tokens on DEX+, showcasing their engagement and backing. Rankings are entirely determined by trading activity, ensuring a transparent, unbiased, and merit-based selection process. This approach helps MEXC identify high-potential tokens that garner strong community and market support, enabling MEXC to provide the necessary visibility and support to solidify their presence in the market.

    “At MEXC, we strive to be a comprehensive platform that not only facilitates seamless trading but also helps users identify promising projects in the crypto space. Meanwhile, MEXC has made significant efforts to identify and support promising projects at an early stage. Through initiatives like the Rising Star event, we provide emerging projects with the marketing and listing support they need to succeed. By integrating DEX and CEX listings, we create an environment where high-potential tokens can gain the exposure and liquidity they deserve, enabling them to thrive in the competitive crypto market,” said Tracy Jin, COO of MEXC.

    MEXC recently launched DEX+ and formed strategic partnerships with pump.fun. In the future, DEX+ will support more DEXs and blockchain ecosystems, and MEXC is committed to driving innovation and supporting emerging projects in crypto. With the launch of Rising Star, every trader plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of cryptocurrency and advancing market growth, while also supporting these promising projects through a transparent system. To learn more details, please visit: link

    About MEXC

    Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto”. Serving over 34 million users across 170+ countries and regions, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, frequent airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding.

    For more information, visit: MEXC Website｜X｜Telegram｜How to Sign Up on MEXC
    For media inquiries, please contact MEXC PR Manager Lucia Hu: lucia.hu@mexc.com

    Source

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