NewzIntel.com

Category: Business

  • MIL-OSI: JELU Coin Introduces Multi-Chain Presale, Staking Rewards, and Referral Incentives

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TALLINN, Estonia, March 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — JELU Coin, a new cryptocurrency inspired by jelly, has entered the presale market with features that go beyond the typical meme coin approach. While it carries a playful theme, the project behind it includes technical components aimed at expanding its use and accessibility.

    JELU Coin is designed to work across multiple blockchain networks. It supports Ethereum (ETH), Binance Smart Chain (BSC), Base, Polygon, Optimism (OP), Avalanche, and Arbitrum. This allows users to participate in the presale using different networks and transaction methods, including USDT, USDC, and credit cards. The flexibility in payment options is intended to make participation easier for a wider audience.

    Unlike many presale projects where users must buy tokens to earn referral bonuses, JELU Coin offers an alternative. Anyone who shares a referral link can receive 5% of the purchases made by others through their link. This feature makes it possible for more people to participate in the project’s promotion without an upfront investment.

    JELU Coin offers a staking system where early participants can earn up to 300% in rewards. Staking is designed to provide additional incentives for those who hold the coin during its initial phase.

    A cashback event is also planned for presale buyers. Instead of storing transaction data on a separate server, JELU Coin records cashback details directly on the blockchain. This method allows users to verify event-related transactions on their own.

    The JELU Coin project includes plans for an exchange that combines features of both centralized and decentralized trading platforms. It will allow cryptocurrency transactions without requiring users to complete a Know Your Customer (KYC) process. According to the project team, the exchange is close to completion and will be launched after the presale ends.

    In addition, JELU Coin is developing a security-focused wallet designed to protect assets and user data. The wallet will be compatible with thousands of services, giving users a way to manage their holdings within the broader digital asset space.

    JELU Coin presents itself as more than just a meme coin by incorporating elements that aim to increase its functionality. The presale structure, multi-chain capabilities, referral incentives, and upcoming exchange are all part of a broader effort to create a cryptocurrency that offers more than a branding concept. With the presale ongoing and future developments in progress, it remains to be seen how JELU Coin will fit into the evolving digital asset market.

    Users can visit the official website https://www.jelu.io/ for more information.

    About Company:
    JELU OÜ is a cryptocurrency company focused on developing blockchain-based financial tools. Its projects include a multi-chain token, staking options, and an upcoming hybrid exchange. The company aims to provide accessible digital asset solutions with a focus on user engagement and security.

    Media Contact
    Company Name: JELU OÜ
    Contact Person: James
    Email: contact@jelu.io
    Website: https://www.jelu.io/

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by JELU OÜ. 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.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/82b1192e-efc0-41dd-964e-2b9830d41819

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government must close Glasgow company aiding Russia say Greens

    Source: Scottish Greens

    15 Mar 2025 External Affairs

    The UK must close the loopholes in the sanctions placed on Russia.

    More in External Affairs

    The UK Government must take action to end the operations of a Glasgow-based company key to Russia’s gas exports says Scottish Green MSP Ross Greer.

    Writing to the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Jonathan Reynolds MP, Greer accused unethical businesses of exploiting loopholes in the sanctions placed on Russia and supporting their brutal invasion of Ukraine.

    Raising the example of Seapeak Maritime Ltd, based in Glasgow and London, Greer noted that the company operates seven oil tankers which export Russian liquified natural gas from Siberia to Europe. 

    Mr Greer said:

    “It’s been three years since Russia launched a full scale invasion of Ukraine, and over a decade since they seized Crimea. Their brutal and illegal war has left hundreds of thousands dead or wounded and forced many more to flee for safety. 

    “Scotland has taken a firm position in solidarity with the people of Ukraine, but Seapeak operating from an office in Glasgow shames and undermines our efforts. 

    “The Russian war machine is dependent in no small part on the profits made by their gas exports. I’m glad the UK Government has sanctioned many individuals and companies who have aided the Kremlin, but for some reason Seapeak remains untouched. They’ve made a fortune from shipping gas out of Russia, throwing a lifeline to Putin’s war economy as a result.

    “It’s time for Seapeak’s operations here to be shut down and their ships sanctioned. Ukraine desperately needs our help if it is to survive the Russian onslaught and Trump’s betrayal. The least we do is stop companies based here from enabling Putin’s regime.”

    The Green MSP has worked with Ukrainian NGO Razom We Stand since the full-scale invasion began and it was through their efforts that Seapeak’s activities were uncovered.

    Speaking on behalf of Razom We Stand, founder and executive director of the organisation, Svitlana Romanko says:

    “Three years into Russia’s full-scale invasion in Ukraine, we are disheartened to see that the UK and Scottish governments still allow Glasgow-based Seapeak to bring Russian gas to Europe and profit from this ongoing gas trade.

    “Let’s be brutally honest – the fossil fuel industry choosing blood money over basic human decency comes as no surprise to anyone. Every tanker of Russian gas that sets sail spits in the face of both morality and global security. They’re just counting their cash while Ukraine burns. 

    “With Seapeak’s vessels openly trading Russian LNG on the spot market, without constraints, both the UK and Scottish governments’ continued inaction is nothing short of complicity. There’s no grey area here – this is brazen war profiteering happening in Glasgow, right inside Britain itself. 

    “Each day the British and Scottish governments hesitate to curtail this home-based trade only serves to strengthen Putin’s ability to wage his war against Ukraine and Europe. 

    “This Arctic gas that Seapeak transports, represents a double catastrophe; funding Russian aggression in Ukraine and unleashing enormous carbon emissions making a mockery of our climate commitments. 

    “And it’s not only about Ukraine. The Kremlin’s continued efforts to expand its gas export infrastructure in the Arctic leads to environmental devastation and massive carbon emissions, directly undermining the urgently needed response to the climate crisis.”

    Letter to Secretary of State for Business and Trade

    Jonathan Reynolds MP
    Secretary of State for Business and Trade
    By Email

    7th March 2025

    Ending indirect support for Russia via LNG exports

    Dear Jonathan,

    As I’m sure you are aware, Russia’s brutal and illegal war against Ukraine is dependent to a significant extent on the economic returns generated by the export of fossil fuels. Three years into this war governments and businesses across the world, including our own, have adopted a wide range of measures to ensure that they are not complicit in Putin’s horrific crimes through engagement with the Russian energy industry. These measures remain incomplete however, and loopholes are being exploited by businesses who have no objection to supporting the Russian war economy.

    Last year my office was made aware of the case of Seapeak Maritime Ltd, operating out of Glasgow and London. Seapeak is involved with Yamal LNG, Russia’s largest LNG plant, as well as private joint stock company Novatek, their largest LNG exporter and second-largest gas producer.

    Seven LNG tankers, the Yakov Gakkel, Eduard Toll, Nikolay Yevgenov, Vladimir Voronin, Georgiy Ushakov, Rudolf Samoylovich and Seapeak Yamal appear to have been travelling from the Yamal LNG port at Sabetta in Siberia to different European destinations. The Sabetta port is a joint venture of Novatek and the Russian state. All seven of these ships are managed and operated by Seapeak Maritime Ltd and Seapeak Maritime Glasgow Ltd.

    Last year I worked with the Ukrainian NGO Razom We Stand and with Sky News to break this story. To my knowledge, Seapeak’s activities since then have not changed and they continue to play a key role in Russian LNG exports by operating roughly one third of all the tankers used for this work. I commend your expansion of sanctions against Russia’s so-called ‘shadow fleet’ and would urge you to take similar action against Seapeak and its fleet immediately.

    I would be happy to provide your officials with further information compiled by my office and Razom We Stand, if that would be of use.

    Best wishes,
    Ross Greer MSP

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Highlights Health Care Priorities to CMS Nominee Dr. Mehmet Oz

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a senior member and former chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, laid out his health care priorities during a hearing to consider Dr. Mehmet Oz’s nomination to be Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Oz committed to supporting Grassley’s efforts to lower prescription drug costs, strengthen rural health care, help kids with exceptional medical needs, preserve transitional health plans and improve the agency’s responsiveness to Congress.

    Video and excerpts from Grassley follow.

    [embedded content]

    PBMs:

    “I’ve been working to hold pharmacy benefit managers accountable to lower prescription drug costs. I expect you to work with us to hold these powerful drug middlemen accountable and support rural pharmacies.”

    Rural Health Care:

    “I expect you to protect and support access to rural health care. To help achieve this, I believe CMS could take the following actions right away:

    1. Fill the open spots in the Rural Community Hospital demonstration program,
    2. Distribute the new physician residency slots to rural hospitals as the law requires, and
    3. Ensure the Rural Emergency Hospital Program is working for rural communities.”

    Kids with Exceptional Needs:

    “I expect you to take action to improve care and reduce red tape for kids with complex medical needs. This includes working with states so they can establish health homes for these kids, as my bipartisan ACE Kids law enabled.”

    Transitional Health Plans:

    “Since 2013, CMS under Presidents Obama, Trump and Biden have issued non-enforcement memos to allow transitional health plans to be maintained. About 35,000 Iowa farmers and small business owners have maintained health insurance coverage with these plans for over a decade. This is health insurance that was purchased after Obamacare became law, but before it was implemented. I expect you to keep access to these health plans.”

    Waste, Fraud and Abuse:

    “Improper payments in our major health care programs have averaged $122 billion annually over the past five years. I’m the author of major and more recent updates to the federal government’s most powerful tool in fighting fraud, the False Claims Act.

    “Since the enactment of these reforms, the federal government has recovered more than $78 billion lost to fraud. It has saved billions more by deterring would-be fraudsters. CMS with the Justice Department must aggressively go after waste, fraud, and abuse and empower whistleblowers.”

    Congressional Oversight:

    “Oversight allows us to hold bureaucrats accountable to the rule of law, and it helps keep faith with taxpayers. I expect CMS to provide timely and complete responses to congressional oversight.”

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Arkansas Delegation to European Commission: Fix Unworkable Deforestation Rules

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    Contact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353
    March 14, 2025

    Arkansas Delegation to European Commission: Fix Unworkable Deforestation Rules

    Washington, D.C. — Senators Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), and Congressmen Rick Crawford (Arkansas-01), French Hill (Arkansas-02), Steve Womack (Arkansas-03), and Bruce Westerman (Arkansas-04) today sent a letter to the European Union raising major concerns with the proposed European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). This impractical regulation will impose an unfair and unnecessary burden on American businesses while failing to effectively combat deforestation.

    In part, the lawmakers wrote: 

    “This regulation is unworkable for the forest products industry in the United States and would jeopardize more than $3.5 billion worth of paper and wood products shipping into the EU market for essential products like timber or pulp for baby diapers.”

    Full text of the letter may be found here and below. 

    March 14, 2025

    Valdis Dombrovskis, European Commissioner for Economy and Productivity

    Jessica Roswall, European Commissioner for Environment

    Marcos Sefcovic, Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security 

    Dear Commissioners,

    We write to you today to share our significant concerns with the European Union deforestation-free supply chains regulation (Regulation (EU) No 2023/1115) and to share our perspective on the impact this will have on the more than 900,000 forest products workers throughout the United States and the over 23,000 men and women in Arkansas who are employed by this industry.  This regulation is unworkable for the forest products industry in the United States and would jeopardize more than $3.5 billion worth of paper and wood products shipping into the EU market for essential products like timber or pulp for baby diapers. 

    The U.S. Forest products industry is a strong proponent of international efforts to suppress deforestation and forest degradation. As such, the United States has excellent ratings in this regard and no evidence of deforestation. Unfortunately, as written, this regulation presents severe compliance challenges that constitute technical barriers to trade for the U.S. Forest products industry. The United States is not a source of the EU’s deforestation concerns and the burden this regulation puts on U.S. pulp, paper, and packaging manufacturers will not achieve the EU’s stated policy goal. Furthermore, the U.S. is widely recognized for its sustainable forestry practices, with negligible deforestation risk, as confirmed by the EU Observatory on deforestation and forest degradation.

    The unprecedented and over-prescriptive reporting requirements of the regulation are a one-size-fits-all approach that does not recognize commodity-specific challenges or country differences. The U.S. Forest products sector operates with deep visibility into their supply chains, with clear management rules and strict controls of forestry practices. These practices and performance measures not only deliver the intended goals of EUDR but go beyond the narrow objectives of regulation.

    We are asking you and the European Commission to work with the United States to ensure the United States is recognized as the lowest possible risk for deforestation and to ensure the geolocation traceability requirements in place are proportional to the level of risk for a particular country. These obligations should be simplified, more proportional and with greater distinction among the risk categories. The geospatial coordinate mapping requirement for every individual plot of land should be removed for supply chains that have already achieved deforestation risk status as low risk, negligible, or insignificant. Secondary materials should be exempt from geolocation because traceability is virtually impossible. Unless these key problems are addressed, I am extremely concerned that the EU may lose their trading relationship with the U.S. Forest products industry, which they rely upon every day. 

    We also believe the EUDR fits within President Trump’s “America First Trade Policy” executive order that was signed on January 20th, 2025, and requires key members of his cabinet to identify examples around the world where the United States is being disadvantaged by policies in place from governments that could be considered a technical barrier to trade and submit reports to President Trump by April 1st, 2025. Already, key members of the President’s cabinet, like Mr. Howard Lutnick, the Secretary of Commerce, have identified the EUDR as a potential technical barrier to trade and it will be more important than ever that you and your team address the concerns we have identified here. 

    We look forward to your response. 

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sullivan, Cornyn & Colleagues Introduce Outbound Investment Legislation to Counter China

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan

    03.14.25

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) and 11 other senators have introduced the Foreign Investment Guardrails to Help Thwart (FIGHT) China Act, which would safeguard the United States’ national security against the growing threat posed by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) by prohibiting and requiring notification of U.S. investment in certain technologies in China.

    “Our country’s investments in innovative technology give us an enormous advantage over the Chinese Communist Party,” said Sen. Sullivan. “But this advantage is threatened when American financial institutions invest in CCP-controlled companies that develop technology—like advanced semiconductors, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and hypersonics—that could ultimately be used to kill Americans at home and Marines in the Taiwan Strait. I’m glad to once again join Senator Cornyn on legislation to put safeguards in place to ensure that American investments don’t go to support the nefarious ambitions of dictators around the world.”

    “The threat China poses to the United States’ national and economic security continues to grow, and we have a generational opportunity to confront it with the FIGHT China Act,” said Sen. Cornyn. “By prohibiting and requiring notification of U.S. investments in certain technologies in China, this bill would help ensure American ingenuity, innovation, and investment do not end up in the hands of the Chinese Communist Party to be weaponized against us. The need to address capital flowing from the U.S. to bad actor nations was first realized during the first Trump administration, and I look forward to finishing what we started then by getting this vital priority over the finish line.”

    Senator Sullivan previously spoke on the Senate floor emphasizing the importance of transparency in foreign investments that could pose a threat to American national security.

    In addition to Senators Sullivan and Cornyn, the FIGHT China Act is cosponsored by Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Michael Bennet (D-Col.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Dave McCormick (R-Penn.), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and John Fetterman (D-Penn.).

    The FIGHT China Act would cover the following investments:

    • Acquisitions, including of limited partners, equity interest, property, or other assets;
    • Loans and debt financing;
    • Joint ventures;
    • And equity interest or debt conversions.

    The legislation would establish exemptions for:

    • Transactions determined to be de minimis or in the national interest;
    • Investments in securities, derivatives of securities, or made as a limited partner in a venture capital fund, private equity fund, fund of funds, or other pooled investment fund;
    • Ancillary transactions undertaken by a financial institution;
    • Acquisitions of entire assets or entities located outside the PRC;
    • Certain transactions secondary to a covered national security transaction;
    • And certain ordinary or administrative business transactions.

    The legislation would prohibit covered investments in the PRC for development or production of:

    • Certain advanced integrated circuits;
    • Certain AI models capable of a high number of operations;
    • Quantum computers and supercomputers;
    • Materials or components for hypersonics; and
    • Any of these technologies that are on the Munitions List, intended for use with nuclear equipment or facilities, or emerging technologies subject to export controls.

    Lastly, the legislation would require U.S. persons to notify the U.S. Department of the Treasury within 14 days when making a covered investment in the PRC for the development or production of:

    • Any non-prohibited integrated circuit;
    • And any non-prohibited AI system which is used for military, surveillance, cybersecurity, penetration, forensics, or robotic system use or which meets a certain computing standard.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement at Executive Session to Consider Deputy Treasury Secretary Nominee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at an executive session to consider the nomination of Michael Faulkender to be Deputy Treasury Secretary.

    As prepared for delivery:

    “We meet today to vote on the nomination of Michael Faulkender to be Deputy Secretary of the Treasury.

    “Mr. Faulkender has years of public and private sector experience, in addition to strong academic credentials.  His background makes him the quintessential pick to serve as Deputy Treasury Secretary.

    “As I said in my opening statement at Mr. Faulkender’s hearing, the Finance Committee has an arduous nomination process and once the nominee completes all the steps, he or she deserves a public hearing, followed by a vote. 

    “Mr. Faulkender sat for hours of questions from Members and staff of this Committee and provided thoughtful answers.  He also responded judiciously to further questions in writing. 

    “My colleagues received responses to their inquiries on Department of Government Efficiency-related work at Treasury and the IRS, and, if confirmed, Mr. Faulkender pledges to provide a briefing on the Treasury payments system.

    “I thank Mr. Faulkender for this commitment, and for his time working through this rigorous process.

    “Qualified nominees for this position in prior congresses garnered bipartisan support.  I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join me today to vote in favor of Mr. Faulkender’s nomination.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Finance Committee Advances Deputy Treasury Secretary Nominee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–The U.S. Senate Finance Committee today advanced the nomination of Michael Faulkender to be Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Treasury, by a vote of 14-13.  Following the vote, Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) issued the following statement:

    “Mr. Faulkender’s years of public and private sector experience and impressive academic credentials make him the quintessential pick for this role.  I look forward to his nomination being considered by the full Senate as we continue our important work to prevent a massive tax hike on American families and businesses.”  

    Mr. Faulkender was reported out of the Committee by a vote of 14 to 13.  Executive session information can be found here.

    Download the image here

    Chairman Crapo’s full statement at the nomination hearing can be found here, and his statement at the executive session can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement at CMS Nomination Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo delivered the following remarks at a hearing to consider the nomination of Mehmet Oz to be Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

    As prepared for delivery:

    “Thank you, Dr. Oz, for being here today and for your willingness to serve as the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Administrator.

    “My staff and I have enjoyed working with you and your team throughout this committee’s rigorous vetting process, and I appreciate your candor and responsiveness.

    “You have provided significant amounts of documentation to substantiate your tax return positions and followed all applicable law.  You have met the same due diligence standard that has applied to nominees in every previous administration.

    “Thank you for your cooperation throughout this exacting process, and for conducting yourself with kindness and professionalism.  I look forward to continuing our work together.

    “For those outside of Washington, CMS can seem like a bureaucratic black box, largely removed from the everyday challenges facing patients and clinicians. 

    “Dr. Oz, you offer a wealth of firsthand experience and expertise, having studied, practiced and taught as an accomplished physician.  In short, you understand how D.C. legalese looks on the ground and how policy plays out in practice. 

    “That is exactly the mindset we need in a CMS Administrator.

    “From our discussions, you also clearly recognize the importance of this role and the programs CMS manages, along with the tremendous responsibility that taking the helm entails.

    “As the world’s largest health insurer, CMS sets health care coverage and payment policies for tens of millions of Americans and their providers. 

    “Medicare currently enrolls more than 68 million Americans.  Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program comprise close to 80 million.  And more than 24 million consumers have selected individual-market plans. 

    “Over the course of the next 25 years, analysts project the Medicare-aged population will grow by an additional 47 percent, further underscoring the high stakes of CMS policymaking. 

    “Ensuring sustainable, stable and proactive rules of the road for these programs will necessitate a collaborative and constructive approach. 

    “Medicare seniors deserve better prescription drug affordability, along with stronger access to pharmacists and doctors.  This Committee has taken steps to achieve those goals on a broad bipartisan basis, and we look forward to working with you to advance those measures.  This includes pharmaceutical benefit manager reform, a stated priority for President Trump.

    “Your background also offers the ideal experience for guiding efforts to reform our broken clinician payment system, an issue you understand from both a policy standpoint and a pragmatic perspective.  

    “Modernizing federal health care programs will require rethinking our outdated approach to treating the symptoms–rather than the underlying causes–of chronic diseases. 

    “Equipping providers with the training to employ a diverse array of interventions, from nutrition and lifestyle changes to cutting-edge drugs and devices, will save lives and taxpayer dollars.

    “Technological advancements like telehealth also offer an opportunity to reshape health care delivery in rural communities, including in Idaho, where access to basic services remains challenging.

    “Medicare Advantage’s market-driven benefit structure provides seniors with more timely access to these and other novel approaches to care.  Its successes should serve as a model for other federal programs.

    “Similarly, Medicaid’s essential safety-net coverage relies on a balance between state-based flexibilities with key patient protections.  Based on our conversations, I am confident your experience as a physician serving Medicaid beneficiaries will be an asset to CMS. 

    “I look forward to learning more about your vision for how we can work together to strengthen our health care system for patients, providers and taxpayers.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo: No Doubt Dr. Oz is Qualified to be CMS Administrator

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.—At a U.S. Senate Finance Committee hearing to consider the nomination of Dr. Mehmet Oz to be Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator, Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) highlighted Dr. Oz’s wealth of firsthand experience as an accomplished physician and his clear vision for creating a healthier nation.  Crapo and Dr. Oz discussed how he would address the nation’s chronic disease epidemic, as well as how he might approach reforming payment programs to improve efficiency.

    Crapo concluded the hearing with, “There is no doubt you are qualified to serve as the next Administrator of [CMS], and I look forward to voting in favor of your nomination and am urging all of my colleagues to do the same.”

    View Crapo’s opening statement here, and line of questioning here or above.

    On addressing the chronic disease epidemic

    Crapo: As an accomplished physician, you have firsthand experience with not only the bureaucratic nature of federal government payment programs, but also the impact of the chronic disease epidemic on patients from all walks of life.  I’d be curious if you would expand on your vision for CMS, and how you would integrate nutrition and lifestyle-based interventions into our health care system?

    Dr. Oz: One of the points that I mentioned at the end of my opening comment was that if we gave people, in their hands, tools and resources that are useful, not information, but tactics and support teams that could work with them to improve their wellbeing, many would take advantage of it.

    One tactic that I believe will work quite effectively is that we can get real-time information from physicians and other health providers taking care of patients, and using that real-time information give feedback to people who are worried about their wellbeing.  That’s when they’re more likely to use that advice.  That tool would allow them to both call an expert if they needed that resource.  We provide them tools to do that.  We’d reimburse some of the healthy lifestyles that would be generated by these interactions, and we’d make them an active participant in their wellbeing.  I think that dramatically changes the power dynamic.  It makes the American people feel like they actually can be the world-experts on their wellbeing.

    On payment program reforms

    Crapo: I very strongly agree with your focus on lifestyle-based interventions that can actually help people help themselves to get healthier.  I’m also interested in how you might reform our payment programs to become more efficient to save both patient lives and taxpayer dollars.

    Dr. Oz: We spend about 12 percent of the CMS budget on bureaucratic processes and the administration of the program, and most of that money is taken by middlemen in ways that I don’t think need to be true in the long term.  I believe we have the power right now, with technology that didn’t exist even three or four years ago, to automate a lot of these processes, and preauthorization is a good example.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement on Speaking with SSA Commissioner Nominee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) released the following statement after speaking with Frank Bisignano, President Trump’s nominee to be Social Security Administration (SSA) Commissioner:

    “I enjoyed my conversation today with Frank Bisignano, President Trump’s nominee to serve as Commissioner of the Social Security Administration.  Frank’s decades of leadership in the private sector, specializing in financial services and payments, make him exceptionally qualified for the task ahead.  I look forward to swiftly considering his nomination before the Finance Committee.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn, Blumenthal, Grassley, Durbin Introduce Bill to Spur Drug Pricing Competition

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), and Dick Durbin (D-IL) introduced the Drug Competition Enhancement Act, which would spur generic and biosimilar marketplace competition by prohibiting branded drug manufacturers from engaging in “product hopping” to help lower drug prices for patients:

    “Companies who attempt to profit at the expense of Texans’ health must face consequences,” said Sen. Cornyn. “By rooting out this wrongdoing and holding bad actors in the pharmaceutical industry accountable, this legislation would spur competition in the marketplace and make drugs more affordable for patients who depend on them.”

    “Bad actors in Big Pharma have manipulated the rules and prioritized profits over patients—including by encouraging consumers to switch medications for pharmaceutical companies’ gain and leaving Americans stuck paying sky-high costs,” said Sen. Blumenthal. “The Drug Competition Enhancement Act reigns in these monopolistic practices and facilitates competition and market entry. This legislation lowers costs for consumers and puts patient care at the forefront.”

    “One of my top priorities in the Senate is reducing the cost of prescription drugs,” said Sen. Grassley. “Our bill will bring much needed transparency to drug pricing by cracking down on product hopping and giving Iowans more access to lower-cost generic drugs.”

    “Americans shouldn’t be forced to choose between their wallets and their health. But because Big Pharma games the patent system, too many patients face sky-high prescription drug costs,” said Sen. Durbin. “The bipartisan Drug Competition Enhancement Act would prevent pharmaceutical companies from using anti-competitive tactics to keep affordable medications out of reach for patients.”

    Background:

    Some pharmaceutical manufacturers have been deliberately abusing the system to prevent potential competitors from entering the marketplace using tactics like product hopping, which slow the entry of lower-cost alternatives.

    Product hopping is a practice that bad actors in the pharmaceutical industry engage in when their exclusive right to a drug is about to expire, but they do not want to compete with generic alternatives. Rather than simply competing on the merits with their old drug and any generic alternative, companies manipulate the market to move patients off the old drug and onto the new. They “hop” patients from branded product to branded product by engaging in a variety of practices to disadvantage their old drug, including destroying the inventory of their old drug, pulling it from the market, aggressively raising the price, badmouthing their old drug, or even diminishing its safety.  Then, when the market protections for the earlier drug expire and a generic or biosimilar alternative comes to market, it is difficult to switch patients to the cheaper generic or biosimilar. As a result of this abuse of the patent system, patients are stuck paying high costs for a drug that is substantially similar to their old one for many years to come.

    The legislation would put an end to this practice. It would prohibit branded drug manufacturers from engaging in anticompetitive product hopping, making that practice an antitrust violation. If companies engage in this behavior, they would risk enforcement action from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). It would also facilitate entry to the market for generics and biosimilars, which drives down drug costs for patients and consumers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn, Blumenthal, Grassley, Durbin Introduce Bill to Lower Drug Costs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), and Dick Durbin (D-IL) introduced the Affordable Prescriptions for Patients Act, which would help lower drug prices by preventing bad actors in the pharmaceutical industry from deliberately abusing the patent system:

    “Patent thickets stifle innovation, hinder generic drugs from entering the marketplace, and raise prices for consumers,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation would help end these abusive and anti-competitive practices to ensure Texans can access the treatments and life-saving medications they need without breaking the bank.”

    “For too long, pharmaceutical companies have been allowed to abuse the patent system, stifling innovation and driving up costs for consumers. This legislation cracks down on drug companies’ manipulative and exploitative practices, promoting competition and lowering prescription drug costs for patients,” said Sen. Blumenthal. “The Affordable Prescriptions for Patients Act will give Americans access to essential medications without the outrageous costs.”

    “The steep price of life-saving medication puts a major strain on Iowans,” said Sen. Grassley. “Our legislation will help reduce the cost of prescription drugs by ending the abusive practice of blocking generic and biosimilar drugs from entering the market.”

    “Big Pharma often manipulates the patent system to maximize their profits while patients struggle to pay for their necessary medications.  These practices stifle competition, delay innovation, and prevent Americans from accessing lower-cost drugs,” said Sen. Durbin.“I’m proud to support the Affordable Prescriptions for Patients Act to ensure that we’re looking out for patients, not Big Pharma.”

    Background:

    Some pharmaceutical manufacturers have been deliberately abusing the patent system to prevent potential competitors from entering the marketplace using tactics like erecting patent thickets, which slow the entry of lower-cost biosimilar products.

    The Affordable Prescriptions for Patients Act puts an end to practices that prioritize profits for pharmaceutical companies ahead of Americans’ health. By stopping abuses of our patent system, this legislation will pave the way for biosimilars to compete with branded drugs and aggressively lower drug prices for consumers in the process.

    Biosimilars are to biologics what generic drugs are to branded drugs. In 2010, Congress enacted a law designed to resolve any patent litigation quickly before a biosimilar is introduced to the market, creating a patent dispute resolution process known as the “patent dance.” Under current law, however, there are no limits on the number of patents that a branded manufacturer of biologics can assert during the patent dance – leading some companies to abuse a process designed to facilitate biosimilar entry, not hinder it.

    This bill places a reasonable limit on the number of patents a manufacturer can contest, preventing a “patent thicket.” This will help deter branded manufacturers of biologics from gaming the system to increase the number of patents they assert, while preserving the incentives provided by the patent system to encourage the core innovation that produces new biologic treatments in the first place.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dr. Oz Agrees with Sen. Warren: Cracking Down on Private Health Insurers in Medicare Advantage Will “Improve the Health Care of the American People”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    March 14, 2025

    Dr. Oz: “My goal is to improve the health care of the American people…[cutting Medicare Advantage fraud] sounds like a more rational way to do that [than cutting funding for Medicaid].” 

    The Medicare Payment Advisory Committee projects that CMS overpaid private insurers in MA by $83 billion in 2024 alone.

    Video of Exchange (YouTube)

    Washington, D.C. – At a hearing of the Senate Finance Committee, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) pressed Dr. Mehmet Oz, President Trump’s nominee for Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), on taxpayer fraud committed by private, for-profit insurers in the Medicare Advantage program. 

    The Medicare Payment Advisory Committee (MedPAC) projects that CMS will overpay private insurers in MA by $83 billion in 2024 alone, largely due to upcoding and favorable selection tactics by the insurers. 

    An investigation led by the Health and Human Services Inspector General (HHS OIG) revealed that private insurers in MA raked in about $4.2 billion in extra CMS payments in 2022 for diagnoses from home visits the companies initiated, even though they led to no treatment. The Wall Street Journal also found that between 2018 and 2021, private insurers in MA raked in $50 billion from CMS for diagnoses that led to no treatment. 

    Dr. Oz previously called the Traditional Medicare program “highly dysfunctional” and argued that private Medicaid Advantage insurers offer cheaper and more accessible coverage. He outlined a “Medicare Advantage for All” plan, which would move all non-Medicaid eligible Americans into MA. During this time, Dr. Oz held over $500,000 in stock with the largest private insurer in Massachusetts, UnitedHealth. 

    When questioned if he would rather cut waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare Advantage, or cut funding for Medicaid during his confirmation hearing, Dr. Oz agreed that “the former sounds like a more rational way to do that.” Last month, Republicans in the House passed a spending bill with $88 billion in annual cuts to Medicaid. 

    Senator Warren has led strong oversight on Dr. Oz through his confirmation process and, ahead of his confirmation hearing, sent 176 questions demanding answers to his plan to eliminate traditional Medicare, his serious conflicts of interest, his dangerous anti-abortion views, and more.

    Transcript: Hearing to examine the nomination of Mehmet Oz, of Pennsylvania, to be Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
    Senate Finance Committee
    March 14, 2025

    Senator Elizabeth Warren: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. So, Dr. Oz, if confirmed, you would oversee Medicare coverage for more than 66 million Americans. Nearly half have traditional Medicare, where the federal government provides health care coverage directly. The other half are on Medicare Advantage, where the federal government pays a private for-profit insurer to administer the health benefits instead. And surprise, surprise, the privatized Medicare costs a whole lot more. 

    So, let’s talk about the top trick that Medicare Advantage insurers use to gouge taxpayers up coding. I understand Senator Cassidy started on this this morning, and I just want to dig a little deeper in Medicare Advantage. Taxpayers give insurers a set amount per patient. The more diagnoses, or the more codes, the patient has, the higher the payment. Now, in theory, this covers higher costs for sicker patients, but insurance companies get the money for the codes, not actually for the services they do or don’t deliver. 

    Medicare Advantage insurers have figured out that if they can add a bunch of fake diagnoses that they don’t actually have to spend money treating, they can really boost their profits. One example, last year, the Wall Street Journal identified 66,000 Medicare Advantage patients diagnosed with diabetic cataracts who had already gotten cataract surgery. Now that is, as you know, anatomically impossible. 

    So, Dr. Oz, insurers pocketed an extra $178 million in taxpayer money last year thanks to just this one fake diagnosis. Does that sound like Medicare fraud to you?

    Dr. Mehmet Oz: Senator Warren, I appreciate you spending time with me in your office. The answer is yes, anatomically impossible. 

    And I’ll give you one more example, okay, which is sending someone to your home, which you brought up in the office. If you’re going to say it, I won’t say it, but you pointed out something that’s very real, which is if you send someone to, someone to, if an insurance company sends someone to your home, there’s probably a reason for it. And so if they’re doing ultrasounds to look for minor atherosclerotic plaques, which is not really something that needs to be treated and most Americans have, it’s primarily done to upcode you. Which has two problems. One, it’s cheating, because you’re able to charge more for those patients. But then people who truly have limb-threatening peripheral vascular disease, who have that box checked in their care, those companies—insurance companies—don’t get paid more, those doctors don’t get reimbursed more for doing what is ethically correct. So it doesn’t just help the scoundrels who are stealing from the vulnerable, it’s actually hurting the people trying to take care of those vulnerable populations. 

    Senator Warren: In fact, let’s talk about how bad that upcoding is that comes from the home visits. HHS Inspector General found that in 2022 alone, United Health used these home visits to add about $2.3 billion worth of diagnoses, diagnoses that led to absolutely no treatment. 

    And I take it, you think that sounds like fraud, as well?

    Dr. Oz: We are, I think, as an agency aware of this. I haven’t been in there yet, but if confirmed, this will be one of the topics that is relatively enjoyable to go after, because I think we have bipartisan support.

    Senator Warren: I love hearing this. So, upcoding is a scandal, and overall, we know that Medicare Advantage overpayments cost at least $83 billion in a single year. So, $83 billion—remember that number. Last month, Republicans in the House passed a budget framework that sets up $88 billion in annual cuts to health care, Medicaid funding for seniors in nursing homes, and for people with disabilities who have a home health aide, and more. 

    Dr. Oz, I have a simple question: If you had the choice, would you rather cut waste, fraud and abuse by a Fortune 50 health insurance company in Medicare Advantage or cut funding for Medicaid, which covers half of all seniors in nursing homes and one in three of America’s children?

    Dr. Oz: My goal is to improve the health care of the American people, and as you create the argument, the former sounds like a more rational way to do that.

    Senator Warren: I appreciate that. You know, I am happy to work with Republicans to go after waste, fraud and abuse, but let’s cut out waste, fraud and abuse where it actually occurs, like upcoding in Medicare Advantage. Republicans cutting health care for seniors and for babies and for people with disabilities, while the waste and the fraud just roll right along for a multibillion-dollar insurance company is sickening, and I will fight that every step of the way. Thank you, Dr. Oz.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Presses Dr. Mehmet Oz, Trump’s Pick to Oversee Medicare & Medicaid Services, on Protecting Patients from Rip-Offs 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    Welch garners pledge from Oz to address excessive pricing from insurance companies 
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – During a Senate Finance Committee hearing today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) questioned Dr. Mehmet Oz, President Trump’s nominee to be the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), a federal agency within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that provides health care to over 100 million Americans. Senator Welch pressed Dr. Oz about how the Trump Administration plans to eliminate rip-offs for patients and tackle excessive pricing in private equity and Medicare Advantage to help lower prescription drug prices.  
    “The big concern I have about our health care system is it costs too much. It’s a real disgrace that we spend the most and get the least. So, many other countries—with all the problems they may have with their health care system—citizens are not anxious about whether they can afford the care that they need. Here, that’s not the case. And one of the big problems is that private equity, pharmaceutical pricing power, device manufacture pricing power, consolidation in the industry—all of this has made the cost of health care brutal. It’s brutal on taxpayers, it’s brutal on employers…we just can’t afford this,” said Senator Welch. 
    “My expectation is you’d be able to come in in six months, let’s say, and report on whether there is progress on all of these things: Squeezing out the rip-off in private equity, squeezing out the rip-off in Medicare Advantage, and having lower drug prices.” 
    Watch the exchange between Senator Welch and Mehmet Oz, President Trump’s pick for Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services: 

    Read excerpts of Senator Welch’s questioning below: 
    Sen. Welch: I believe a major responsibility that you would have in your job would be to fight the excessive charging…In his first term, President Trump said he favored a reference price for drugs. So, you know, we’re paying three, four, five times for the same drug that they buy in Canada or in Europe. Would you support reference pricing so that we don’t get ripped off compared to everybody else, even though we do the research?   
    Dr. Oz: President Trump has been very clear that he wants me to reduce drug prices, not just for the government payees, but also for beneficiaries. International reference pricing is a way of doing that. 
    Sen. Welch: Here’s what I think we all need: We have got to get a fair price. And it’s not a fair price when we’re paying six or seven times what they’re paying for the same thing in France, or in Canada, or wherever else, okay? So, I’m just going to stop here but say that is absolutely top of mind. President Trump has indicated a concern about this, and I hope you follow through.  
    Second, Medicare Advantage—it sounds good, but it’s an incredible rip-off in some cases…It’s going to be your job to crack down on that. Are you going have any tolerance for that kind of rip-off from our insurance companies?   
    Dr. Oz: No. I think you have identified a place where a system which was, in theory, a good one—Medicare Advantage is a community health-focused effort… 
    Sen. Welch: I understand that. I don’t mean to interrupt, but I just want to stay on this. We cannot afford to have the health care system be taken over for private profit when it doesn’t provide good service at an affordable price for our citizens. Do you agree with that?  
    Dr. Oz: I agree, and I think that the upcoding in Medicare Advantage programs has become the best example of this out there and it is something that is addressable. And I pledge, if confirmed, I will go after it.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Reverend Warnock Unveils Legislative Package to Address Housing Affordability and Availability Crisis

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Senator Reverend Warnock Unveils Legislative Package to Address Housing Affordability and Availability Crisis

    The transformative housing package addresses rising rental costs and downpayment fees, private equity’s domination of Atlanta’s housing market, and the overall lack of available housing units

    This week, Senator Reverend Warnock introduced the Downpayment Toward Equity Act, the Rent Relief Act, and the Stop Predatory Investing Act

    Senator Reverend Warnock also introduced the American Housing and Economic Mobility Act, legislation that would build nearly three million new housing units

    During a Wednesday Senate Banking Hearing, Senator Reverend Warnock highlighted his newly introduced housing legislation and how Georgians and Americans would benefit from the legislative package

    Senator Reverend Warnock, a longtime advocate of affordable housing, has tirelessly fought to broaden the path to homeownership for hardworking Americans

    Senator Reverend Warnock during the hearing: “These are important bills that address the affordability issue and the accessibility issue around housing”

    Watch Senator Reverend Warnock at Wednesday’s Senate Banking Committee hearing HERE

    Washington, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) introduced a comprehensive legislative package of housing bills to address the ongoing housing affordability and availability crisis in the United States.

    The Downpayment Toward Equity Act, the Rent Relief Act, the Stop Predatory Investing Act, and the American Housing and Economic Mobility Act, which Senator Warnock co-led with Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), are a direct response to what Senator Warnock has heard from constituents about their inability to afford a home, and a solution to the housing crisis that millions more Americans are facing across the country.

    “We have a housing affordability and availability crisis in this country and I’m especially concerned about young Americans and their ability to pay rent or buy their first home,” said Senator Reverend Warnock during a Senate Banking Committee hearing. “Last year, we actually saw the largest increase in rental costs in a decade, while the share of first-time homebuyers reached an all-time low. Tough pickings whether you’re a renter, or looking to buy. Georgia has the lowest homeownership rate in the entire Southeast.” 

    The bills introduced in the package address each of the largest hurdles for most young people trying to buy their first home.

    The Rent Relief Act would provide much needed relief to low- and middle-class Americans by subsidizing a percentage of their rents that exceed cost burden thresholds (more than 30% of their income). It would address the rising rental costs seen around the country, allowing people to save more income that could be put toward realizing the dream of homeownership.

    The Downpayment Toward Equity Act would provide funds toward downpayment and other financial assistance for first-generation homebuyers to purchase their first home, helping alleviate what is considered the chief obstacle for young people in trying to buy their first home. 

    “Ms. Willis, what are the consequences of high rental costs and lack of affordable housing on upward mobility on the broader economy?” Senator Warnock asked Renee M. Willis, who was an expert witness for Wednesday’s Banking Committee hearing.

    “I think on an individual level when people with low incomes can’t afford housing, they’re forced to make impossible trade-offs. So, we’re talking about trade-offs between paying rent and buying groceries, or medications, or investing in their children’s education,” responded Renee M. Willis, Interim President & CEO of National Low Income Housing Coalition. “But more broadly, I’d say that researchers have found housing constraints have lowered GDP growth.”

    “For first-time home buyers, what do they cite most often as the biggest barriers?” Senator Warnock asked.

    “Two words. Downpayment costs,” responded Willis.

    The Stop Predatory Investing Act, previously led by another champion of housing, Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH), would remove tax advantages enjoyed by private equity investors to disincentivize ownership of more than 50 single-family rental properties.

    These bills together, coupled with Senators Warnock and Warren’s American Housing and Economic Mobility Act, which would invest in building nearly three million new housing units, would address some of the most longstanding issues in the American housing market today.

    “These are important bills that address the affordability issue and the accessibility issue around housing,” said Senator Warnock at the hearing.

    During the hearing, Senator Warnock also questioned Dr. Edward Glaeser, a Professor of Economics at Harvard University, about the impact of the housing crisis on the American GDP.

    “Are you concerned about what you are seeing in the economic data about young Americans and homeownership?” Senator Warnock asked.

    “Senator, I certainly am,” said Dr. Edward Glaeser. “[One of my concerns] is a transfer of housing wealth, from the young to the old.

    “Massive transfers of wealth, and the inability to pass wealth from one generation to the next, it’s moving in the wrong direction, which has implications for all of us regardless of our generation,” continued Senator Warnock.

    Since coming to the Senate, Senator Warnock has worked to increase affordable housing and illuminate a path to homeownership, a cornerstone of the American Dream. As one of twelve brothers and sisters growing up in public housing in Savannah, Senator Warnock deeply understands the importance of having a place to call home and homeownership. In the past few years, Senator Warnock voted for government funding legislation that increased America’s housing supply, strengthened housing affordability, and addressed the homelessness crisis, including by: increasing the supply of affordable housing nationwide with funding to build 10,000 new rental and homebuyer units; extending funding for the Yes In My Backyard (“YIMBY”) grant program to support efforts to increase our nation’s housing supply and lower housing costs through state and local zoning changes; and delivering $275 million in new funding for Homeless Assistance Grants to help address homelessness in communities across the country and providing new resources to better connect people experiencing homelessness with health care services. Senator Warnock has also secured nearly $80 million in housing investments to provide affordable housing options for Georgians at all income levels and repair hazardous housing conditions in low-income housing units. 

    “The predatory practices of institutional investors who buy out single-family homes is a rapidly developing issue in affordable housing policy, and one that must be addressed head-on to protect the rights of tenants and help preserve the nation’s supply of affordable housing,” said NLIHC Interim President and CEO Renee Willis. “I applaud Senator Warnock for his leadership in introducing the ‘Stop Predatory Investing Act’, which will help ensure investors do not buy up available properties only to raise rents and displace tenants.” 

    In addition to Senator Warnock, the Downpayment Toward Equity Act is cosponsored by Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Cory Booker (D-NJ), the American Housing and Economic Mobility Act is cosponsored by Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ed Markey (D-MA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Peter Welch (D-VT), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Andy Kim (D-NJ), the Stop Predatory Investing Act is co-led by Senators Tina Smith (D-MN), Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and cosponsored by Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Jack Reed (D-RI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Peter Welch (D-VT), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Cory Booker (D-NJ).

    Watch video of Senator Reverend Warnock’s questioning at Wednesday’s Senate Banking Committee hearing HERE.

    Read the legislative package summary HERE.

    Bill text for the Downpayment Toward Equity Act can be found HERE.

    Bill text for the Stop Predatory Investing Act can be found HERE.

    Bill text for the Rent Relief Act can be found HERE.

    Bill text for the American Housing Economic Mobility Act can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Business – Australasian real estate giant Raine & Horne turns up the volume in NZ

    Source: Raine & Horne

    Real estate super brand goes all in on a nationwide radio blitz through Newstalk ZB and its NZME stablemates to reach collectively 1.86 million Kiwis weekly.

    Highlights:

    • Raine & Horne has launched a strategic nationwide radio advertising campaign in partnership with NZME to enhance brand awareness and engagement across New Zealand.
    • Since acquiring Mike Pero Real Estate in December 2023, Raine & Horne has grown to over 60 offices, and the campaign will reinforce its visibility in big cities, small towns, and regional communities.
    • The strategic campaign includes over 3,000 advertisements across leading NZME radio stations, reaching 1.86 million Kiwis weekly. 85% of listeners have a vested interest in the property market.

    Christchurch, NZ (14 March 2025) – Raine & Horne, Australasia’s fastest-growing real estate group, has launched a nationwide radio advertising campaign in collaboration with leading integrated media company New Zealand Media and Entertainment (NZME).

    NZME’s portfolio includes some of New Zealand’s most influential media brands, such as talkback ratings leader Newstalk ZB, major mastheads such as The New Zealand Herald and BusinessDesk, and leading community and regional newspapers. Its digital platforms also feature OneRoof, a premier property destination offering thousands of listings, accurate estimates, and the latest market insights.

    This strategic initiative aims to boost brand awareness and engagement with Raine & Horne among property owners, buyers, investors, and tenants. Since entering the New Zealand market in April 2023, Raine & Horne has rapidly expanded, now boasting over 60 offices nationwide.

    Mr Angus Raine, Raine & Horne Executive Chairman, who spearheaded the group’s expansion into New Zealand, stressed the importance of the nationwide radio campaign.

    “We have already kicked plenty of goals, including successfully integrating the Mike Pero Real Estate group into our brand last year. But we don’t want to be known as New Zealand’s best-kept secret,” Mr Raine said.

    “This campaign is strategically designed to engage property owners and buyers across New Zealand’s big cities, small towns, and regional communities, reinforcing our growing brand presence.”

    The radio campaign, airing throughout March, will further strengthen the brand’s visibility and awareness as it approaches its highly successful second anniversary in New Zealand.

    “By partnering with trusted radio stations through the NZME network, Raine & Horne has the opportunity to connect with millions of potential customers,” Mr Raine said.

    The campaign will air across some of New Zealand’s most influential and widely listened-to stations, including ratings leader Newstalk ZB—akin to Australia’s top talkback stations such as 2GB, 3AW, and 4BC—along with ZM, which parallels KIIS FM, as well as The Hits, Coast, Radio Hauraki, Flava, and the NZME podcast network and iHeartRADIO, which collectively reach 1.86 million Kiwis weekly.

    “Notably, 85% of this audience has a vested interest in property, ensuring the campaign reaches the right market,” Mr Raine added.

    The campaign will deliver over 3,000 advertisements nationwide in March, including 2,824 guaranteed spots plus additional bonus placements. The reach of the campaign is substantial:

    • 89% of people living in Auckland
    • 87% of people living in the North Island
    • 76% of people living in Otago and Southland
    • 73% of people living in the South Island.

    Radio remains one of the most effective advertising mediums, offering the frequency and credibility required to build brand recognition and trust.

    “By aligning ourselves with respected and influential radio shows and hosts through the NZME network, we can leverage the credibility of their world-class journalists and broadcasters and their excellent audience engagement to underpin our rapidly expanding position in New Zealand’s real estate market,” Mr Raine said.

    “This high-impact campaign also reinforces our long-term commitment to the New Zealand real estate market, ensuring property owners are well-informed about our network’s evolution and the advantages of working with a trusted global real estate brand such as Raine & Horne.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Senator Reverend Warnock Puts Dr. Oz on Record Supporting Medicaid Access for Georgians Caught in Health Care Gap During Nomination Hearing to Oversee Medicare and Medicaid

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    WATCH: Senator Reverend Warnock Puts Dr. Oz on Record Supporting Medicaid Access for Georgians Caught in Health Care Gap During Nomination Hearing to Oversee Medicare and Medicaid

    At Friday’s Senate Finance committee hearing, Senator Reverend Warnock questioned Dr. Oz, President Trump’s nominee to run the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
    Senator Reverend Warnock put Dr. Oz on record as supporting Medicaid access for Georgians caught in the health care gap as the state readies to apply for an extension
    The state’s renewal application comes at a moment when the Trump Administration and Hill Republicans are threatening major slashes in funding for health care programs that largely support low-income families and children
    Senator Reverend Warnock: “You’ll never get any pushback from me about the value of a work ethic and the purpose that work provides, which is why I think people ought to have health care so they can get back to work. Very often they can’t get back to work in Georgia because they can’t get the health care”

    Watch Senator Reverend Warnock at Friday’s CMS nominee hearing HERE

    Washington, D.C. – Today, during a Senate Finance committee hearing on the nomination of Dr. Mehmet Oz to lead the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) put Dr. Oz on the record as supporting Medicaid access for Georgians caught in the health care gap. As CMS Administrator, Dr. Oz will be responsible for approving the Georgia Pathways waiver, which is due to be extended. 

    “You’ll never get any pushback from me about the value of a work ethic and the purpose that work provides, which is why I think people ought to have health care so they can get back to work. Very often they can’t get back to work in Georgia because they can’t get the health care,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “Let me give you an example. There is a woman in Dalton, Georgia that I got to know a while ago, her name is Heather Payne. […] She was among those folks who were in the gap. She couldn’t afford private insurance, but she wasn’t poor enough to get conventional Medicaid. So her health challenges and the unpredictable nature of her work as a traveling nurse made it impossible for her to meet George’s onerous work verification requirements to get Medicaid. She found out she had had a series of strokes. She had to save the money to see a neurologist, and then she found out she’d had a series of strokes. Took a long time to be able to afford to go and now she’s in the gap, and she can’t meet Georgia’s onerous work requirements. Do you think Heather Payne, a traveling nurse who spent her career providing health care to others, do you think she deserves Medicaid or not?”

    Dr. Oz replied, “Yes.” 

    “I agree with you. And since we agree, I think that the Medicaid waiver that you will be responsible for reviewing, in fact, I know it, it says that Heather does not deserve Medicaid,” said Senator Reverend Warnock.

    The state has already started the process of applying for an extension and comes at a moment when the Trump Administration and Hill Republicans are threatening major slashes in funding for health care programs that largely support low-income families and children. 

    “Georgia’s Pathways to coverage is a roadblock to care. They’ve gotten, I don’t know, 6,000 people, I think the last time I checked. And we got over 500,000 people in the gap. So I’m gonna give you a softball if you are confirmed, will you work with me and will you keep Amanda and Heather in mind as you consider whether or not to renew Georgia’s waiver–which I think is filled with unnecessary and onerous work requirements, paperwork, filling out paperwork every single month–will you keep these two people in mind?” Senator Reverend Warnock asked.

    “Heather and Amanda should be in all of our minds and many others like them. I look forward to working with you,” Dr. Oz replied.

    If confirmed, Oz would take over the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), which provides health coverage to more than 100 million people through Medicare, Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program, and the Health Insurance Marketplace, and manages a budget of $1.5 trillion. About a quarter of all federal spending runs through CMS, and Oz would take over the institution at a moment when Washington Republicans are threatening major slashes in funding for health care.

    Watch the Senator’s full remarks HERE.

    See below a transcript of key exchanges between Senator Warnock and CMS nominee Mehmet Oz (remarks have been lightly edited for clarity): 

    Senator Reverend Warnock (SRW): “My home state of Georgia is not only one of only ten states in the country that has still not expanded Medicaid, it also has the dubious distinction of being the only state in the country where the limited number of families who do qualify for Medicaid are required to regularly complete bureaucratic paperwork to prove they’re still working the minimum number of hours to get health care. State officials call it ‘Georgia Pathways to Coverage’. I call it ‘Georgia Pathways to Nowhere.’ The program is allowed under the state’s Medicaid waiver, which is up for renewal this year. And if confirmed as head of CMS, you would be responsible for approving or denying the state’s application to renew these onerous paperwork requirements. Dr. Oz, I’m not going to ask you to prejudge the state’s renewal application; that wouldn’t be fair, you need to see it. But since you’d oversee Medicaid if confirmed, yes or no, do you believe families should have to complete government paperwork every single month to prove they are working just to get health care when they’re sick?”

    Mehmet Oz (MO): “I am in favor of work requirements.”

    SRW: “Do you think a family should have to fill out paperwork every month just to get health care?”

    MO: “I don’t think you need to use paperwork to prove work requirements, and I don’t think that should be used as an obstacle, disingenuous effort to block people from getting on Medicaid. However, I believe we would both probably agree that there’s value in work, and it doesn’t have to be going to a job. It could be getting an education, it should be showing that you want to contribute to society. You could volunteer at Ebenezer Baptist Church, where I did a show with you once, that would, for me, fulfill the requirement.”

    SRW: “You’ll never get any pushback from me about the value of a work ethic and the purpose that work provides, which is why I think people ought to have health care so they can get back to work. Very often they can’t get back to work in Georgia because they can’t get the health care. Let me give you an example. There is a woman in Dalton, Georgia that I got to know a while ago, her name is Heather Payne. She’s a traveling nurse. And you know, as a traveling nurse, some jobs were better than others. Sometimes she had health care, sometimes she didn’t. She was among those folks who were in the gap. She couldn’t afford private insurance, but she wasn’t poor enough to get conventional Medicaid. So her health challenges and the unpredictable nature of her work as a traveling nurse made it impossible for her to meet George’s onerous work verification requirements to get Medicaid. She found out she had had a series of strokes. She had to save the money to see a neurologist, and then she found out she’d had a series of strokes. Took a long time to be able to afford to go and now she’s in the gap, and she can’t meet Georgia’s onerous work requirements. Do you think Heather Payne, a traveling nurse who spent her career providing health care to others, do you think she deserves Medicaid or not?”

    MO: “Yes.” 

    SRW: “Thank you. I agree with you. And since we agree, I think that the Medicaid waiver that you will be responsible for reviewing, in fact, I know it, it says that Heather does not deserve Medicaid.”

    […]

    SRW: “Let me tell you about another Georgian. Amanda left her two jobs in New York and moved to Warner Robins to become a full-time caregiver for her 84-year-old father, Thomas. Taking care of her father has become a full-time responsibility for Amanda. He’s 84 years old. She’s taking care of him, which means he is not in a nursing home. She’s taken on that responsibility. But with all of this, she does not have time to hold a full-time job that meets the state’s strict work requirements, and she has no income to cover her own health costs should she get sick. Dr. Oz, do you think Amanda deserves Medicaid?”

    MO: “From what you are describing, yes. These are the opportunities we have to make the system better. If we both agree that people should be trying to get off Medicaid, if they can, we should be able to create a system where we can track that, because there’s the twin paradox, which I think we touched on in the office. Two brothers are at home, one’s working every day, flipping burgers, making minimum wage. Maybe he’s cobbling together 16, $17,000, puts them right above the poverty level. And the other brother doesn’t bother working because he’ll have the exact same coverage if he doesn’t work. We want to make both of them want to move up the ladder, like every small businessman. What’s their goal? To become a big businessman.”

    SRW: “You and I have the basis for meaningful conversation. Georgia’s Pathways to coverage is a roadblock to care. They’ve gotten, I don’t know, 6,000 people, I think the last time I checked. And we got over 500,000 people in the gap. So I’m gonna give you a softball if you are confirmed, will you work with me and will you keep Amanda and Heather in mind as you consider whether or not to renew Georgia’s waiver–which I think is filled with unnecessary and onerous work requirements, paperwork, filling out paperwork every single month–will you keep these two people in mind?”

    MO: “Heather and Amanda should be in all of our minds and many others like them. I look forward to working with you.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: CLG Workshop at Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) 2025 to Address Legal and Strategic Solutions in Congo

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

    BRAZZAVILLE, Congo (Republic of the), March 14, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The inaugural Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF), taking place from March 24-26 in Brazzaville, will feature a workshop led by legal firm CLG (formerly Centurion Law Group) that aims to address the unique challenges faced in Congo’s energy investment sector. As part of a strategy to spur energy investment and socioeconomic development, the Republic of Congo has initiated a number of strategies to drive resource monetization, project development and local capacity building.

    As such, the Mastering Business in Congo: Legal Challenges and Strategic Solutions for Success session will take place on 24 March, offering an understanding of the legal structures underpinning corporate law, taxation, immigration, labor law and regulatory compliance. During the session, a panel of legal experts from CLG will delve into all aspects of growing investments in the African energy sector, offering insights into the legal nuances that can directly influence investments decisions. 

    Set to showcase how Congo’s investment landscape can accelerate monetization of the country’s natural resources, CLG’s experience in the African market has the potential to empower businesses with effective management skills and knowledge for participating in Congo’s energy sector. The country is set to release its Gas Master Plan (https://apo-opa.co/3DF5fSI) and new Gas Code (https://apo-opa.co/3Fsijey) at CEIF 2025, with a promise to reducing energy imports in the country and raising electricity access for its population, which currently stands at 50%.

    Meanwhile, Congo is also preparing to launch an international oil and gas licensing round (https://apo-opa.co/4bu0dF8) at CEIF 2025, aiming to attract investment in both marginal and deepwater blocks. This initiative is part of the country’s strategy to increase oil production from the current 274,000 barrels per day (bpd) to 500,000 bpd by 2027. These major developments align with Congo’s broader national goals to mitigate production declines and stimulate further exploration on- and offshore. are expected to usher in a new wave of investment in sub-Saharan Africa’s fourth largest oil producing market.

    The Mastering Business in Congo: Legal Challenges and Strategic Solutions for Success will offer attendees the opportunity to master the complex regulatory landscape and learn how it affects various investment types within the energy sector. During the session, CLG will provide delegates with knowledge to develop actionable strategies to mitigate legal risks and safeguard investments from future potential strategies.

    “At CEIF 2025, we recognize that navigating the complex legal and regulatory landscape is crucial for successful investment in Congo’s growing energy sector. This workshop, led by CLG, is a pivotal opportunity for investors and stakeholders to gain valuable insights into the legal frameworks that underpin the energy market. By addressing key challenges and offering strategic solutions, we aim to empower businesses with the knowledge to unlock the full potential of Congo’s energy resources,” states Daoudou Mohammad, Tax and Legal Director, CLG.

    CLG is a leading provider of specialized legal and tax advisory services, catering to a diverse portfolio of multinational companies operating globally. With a team of experts boasting extensive experience and knowledge across multiple sectors and with offices in Germany, South Africa, Nigeria, Mauritius, Ghana, the Republic of Congo, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Namibia and South Sudan; CLG delivers bespoke solutions tailored to address the unique challenges and complexities faced by clients in various industries.

    CLG’s expertise spans a wide range of industries – including energy, infrastructure, mining, agriculture, and ESG to name a few –  enabling the firm to provide comprehensive guidance and support to clients navigating Africa’s dynamic business landscape. By combining technical excellence with a deep understanding of local markets and regulatory environments, CLG helps clients achieve their business objectives and capitalize on opportunities for growth and expansion.

    Registration (https://apo-opa.co/3FspgMZ) for the workshop is now open.

    The inaugural Congo Energy & Investment Forum, set for March 24-26, in Brazzaville, under the patronage of President Denis Sassou Nguesso and supported by the Ministry of Hydrocarbons and Société Natioanle des Pétroles du Congo, will bring together international investors and local stakeholders to explore national and regional energy and infrastructure opportunities. The event will explore the latest gas-to-power projects and provide updates on ongoing expansions across the country.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South Africa successfully hosts key G20 Working Groups and Task Force Meetings

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    As part of its G20 Presidency, South Africa has successfully hosted a series of high-level G20 working groups and task force meetings during this month, focusing on global challenges such as corruption, food security, disaster risk reduction, agriculture, and tourism.

    The first Anti-Corruption Working Group Meeting, held in Cape Town from 3 to 5 March 2025, focused on mechanisms to enhance the implementation of legal instruments to fight corruption. 

    Cabinet said in a statement that this meeting was an opportunity for participants to establish the agenda and lay the groundwork for future discussions, encouraging dialogue and collaboration to strengthen anti-corruption strategies. 

    “During this meeting, participants discussed and agreed on these several key priorities which are strengthening Public Sector Integrity; Increasing Asset Recovery Efficiency; Inclusive Participation; and Whistle-Blower Protection,” Cabinet said.

    Agriculture Working Group

    The First Agriculture Working Group Meeting, held virtually on 3 and 4 March, discussed critical issues that affect agricultural stakeholders worldwide and agreed on priorities for the year ahead. 

    The group established four key priorities:

    • Promoting inclusive market participation and food security;
    • Empowering youth and women in agrifood systems;
    • Fostering innovation and technology transfer and
    • Building climate resilience for sustainable agriculture

    Tourism Working Group

    On 5 March, the First Tourism Working Group Meeting, also held virtually, deliberated on how tourism can be used to change people’s lives, communities and the world. 

    The group also identified four focus areas for the year ahead namely:

    • Leveraging People-Centered Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Innovation to support travel and tourism start-ups and SMMEs,
    • Enhancing tourism financing and investment to promote equality and sustainability,
    • Improving air connectivity for seamless travel, and
    • Boosting resilience for inclusive, sustainable tourism development.

    Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group

    First Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group Meeting also held virtually on 5 March, discussed the acceleration of early warnings for all initiatives which is a key global target set by the United Nations and reinforced the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030. 

    “South Africa sees this meeting as a key international forum to drive the agenda of a shared responsibility to build resilience, strengthen our cooperation, and drive meaningful action that is needed to prevent an escalation or exacerbation of risk,” Cabinet said. 

    Key priorities included:

    • addressing Inequalities and Reducing Vulnerabilities
    • Global Coverage of Early Warning Systems
    • Disaster Resilient Infrastructure
    • Financing for Disaster Risk Reduction
    • Disaster Recovery, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction; and
    • Ecosystems-Based Approaches for DRR/Nature-Based Solutions. 

    Food Security Task Force

    The First Task Force Meeting on Food Security, held virtually on 5 March, discussed policies and programs to improve food security. 

    “Participants agreed to build a stronger, fairer, and more sustainable food system. They also committed to address key challenges like trade barriers, funding for food production, and the impact of climate change on food supply chains,” Cabinet said. 

    Some of the priorities outcomes discussed are the following: 

    • Stronger food security policies
    • Stable food prices
    • Clear regulations & standards
    • G20 Action Plan for Food Security; and
    • Ministerial approval & implementation

    G20 Outreach Programme

    On 7 March 2025, the G20 Outreach Programme was held at the University of Venda in Thohoyandou, to encourage public engagement in South Africa’s G20 presidency.

    Citizens were urged to welcome international delegates, promote South Africa’s cultural heritage, and share positive narratives about the country.

    “The gathering was used to encourage the people of this country to get involved in welcoming our guests to the country as we continue to host meetings in various parts of the country and to promote their culture and heritage. South Africans were also encouraged to tell a good story about their country,” Cabinet said. 

    The following G20 Working Groups and Task Forces meetings are scheduled to take place until the end of March 2025: 

    • First Task Force Meeting: Inclusive Economic Growth, Industrialisation, Employment, and Reduce Inequality: 17 March 2025 – virtual.
    • First Trade and Investment Working Group Meeting: 18-20 March 2025 – virtual.
    • Second Health Working Group: 26-28 March 2025 – Durban.
    • First Climate and Environment Sustainability Working Group Meeting: 25-28 March 2025 – virtual.

    For more information on these various G20 meetings and their outcomes can be accessed on www.g20.org OR www.g20.org.za– SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: President Ramaphosa engages EU on new investment package

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    With the 8th South Africa-European Union (SA-EU) Summit underway, President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa intends to hold further constructive discussions on a new investment package by the EU, to South Africa.

    “Through this we aim to consolidate cooperation in areas such as science and technology, education and skills development, climate action, peace and security, health and critical minerals,” the President said on Thursday.

    This as he is co-chairing the summit with the President of the European Council, António Luís Santos da Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Dr. Ursula von der Leyen, at Tuynhuys, in Cape Town.

    READ | Summit to strengthen SA-EU relations

    Held in the Western Cape, the 8th Summit takes place within the framework of the Strategic Partnership between South Africa and the European Union. 

    “As one of South Africa’s most important trade and investment partners, the European Union can play a catalytic role in unleashing the productive capacity of our economy and equip our people, especially the youth, to participate in the economy of the future. 

    “We hope we can continue to rely on the support of the European Union and its member states in our efforts to alleviate poverty, transition to a low-carbon economy, invest in climate-resilient infrastructure and grow our industrial capacity,” the President explained.

    In addition, the President welcomed the EU’s support for multilateral institutions and the fundamental principles of the United Nations.

    “This Summit is taking place at a time of global uncertainty characterised by rising unilateralism, economic nationalism and a retreat from international law and human rights.

    “We hope to work closely with the European Union and other partners to strengthen and reform institutions of global governance to make them more inclusive and capable of meeting the challenges of the present and the future. 

    We should collectively strengthen our voice in defence of human rights, democracy and the rule of law, including respect for international law and international humanitarian law. We welcome the support of the European Union for Africa’s developmental needs.”

    Partnership

    He emphasised that African relations with the European Union should be built on a mutually beneficial partnership in the spirit of shared ownership, responsibility, respect and mutual accountability. 

    “Today we will discuss our shared interest to advance peace, security, stability and sustainable development on the continent and across the world. This Summit affirms our long-standing and close relationship, which is underpinned by the South Africa-European Union Strategic Partnership. 

    “This is a partnership based on shared values and common interests. A partnership that seeks to create prosperity for our citizens and promote peace, safety and stability.

    “We share a commitment to inclusive multilateralism as the most effective means to address the most pressing challenges facing the world.  We agree on the need to strengthen economic cooperation and resolve challenges in our trade relations,” the President said.

    Reforms 

    He mentioned that South Africa is forging ahead with far-reaching structural reforms to support economic recovery. 

    “We are modernising and transforming key industries such as energy, water, transport and digital communications. We have already made considerable progress, supported by institutions such as the European Investment Bank. 

    “These reforms are contributing to the improvement of the country’s competitiveness and investment environment,” the President said. 

    According to the Presidency, the Summit follows a series of preparatory engagements that included the Joint Cooperation Council (JCC) held in January in Brussels. –SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South Africa-European Union Summit concludes

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the European Union’s €4.7 billion Global Gateway Investment Package aimed at supporting strategic investment projects.

    The President was speaking during a press briefing following the 8th South Africa-European Union Summit held in Cape Town on Thursday.

    The package is aimed at supporting:
    •    A clean and just energy transition in South Africa
    •    Digital and physical connectivity infrastructure
    •    The local pharmaceutical industry.

    “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.

    “To boost the competitiveness of our economies, we agreed to launch negotiations towards a Clean Trade and Investment Partnership. This will support the development of cleaner value chains for raw materials and local beneficiation, renewable and low carbon energy, and clean technology,” President Ramaphosa said.

    Furthermore, the partnership will also serve as a platform for “regulatory cooperation between the European Union and South Africa in areas of mutual interest related to clean supply chains”.

    “This partnership is expected, for example, to deliver short and long term solutions to enable Sasol to export sustainable fuel, especially aviation fuel, to the European Union,” the President added.

    Strengthening ties

    President Ramaphosa noted that the summit – the first such held in seven years – reflects mutual commitment to “enhancing our Strategic Partnership for the mutual benefit of our people”.

    As a regional bloc, the European Union (EU) is South Africa’s biggest trading partner recording some €49.5 billion in total trade in 2023 with EU foreign direct investment into South Africa reaching around €71 billion in 2022.

    “Today’s Summit focused on strengthening our trade and investment relations, which are vital for the growth of our economies and the achievement of our development goals,” the President noted.

    Discussions also focussed on other areas including green energy, science and health.

    “We have prioritised the transition to green energy, ensuring that this process is just and inclusive and safeguards the livelihoods of those most affected by the transition. We also had discussions on our robust cooperation in education; science, technology and innovation; and health.

    “We have recognised the vital importance of developing the skills and capabilities of young people, starting from early childhood development through to the training of young people in the skills of the future,” President Ramaphosa explained.

    Global developments 

    On the global stage, President Ramaphosa said, “we reaffirmed our commitment to multilateralism, the rule of law and the central role of the United Nations in maintaining global peace and security”.

    “We also expressed our resolve to resist actions that undermine multilateral cooperation. We reinforced our belief that the institutions of global governance must be reformed to make them representative and fit for purpose. 

    “We agreed that addressing the root causes of conflict is essential for achieving durable peace, security and stability in Africa.”

    Turning to the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), President Ramaphosa said South Africa calls on parties to assist in addressing the “dire situation of the people” caught in the blaze of the war.

    “As South Africa, we have made a call for a humanitarian intervention for displaced people in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. 

    “As we work to achieve a ceasefire and achieve a peaceful resolution of the conflict in the DRC, we are calling on the United Nations, African Union and EU to help to address the dire situation of the people affected by the fighting,” he said.
    Reflecting on the outcomes of the Summit, President Ramaphosa described it as having further strengthened the strategic partnership.

    “Today’s Summit has further strengthened our Strategic Partnership, which will support our efforts to drive inclusive economic growth, create jobs, eradicate poverty and address global challenges in a spirit of solidarity, collaboration and partnership.

    “On behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, it has been a pleasure to host you today, reaffirming our commitment to building strong, mutually beneficial relations with the European Union,” President Ramaphosa concluded. 

    In his opening remarks at the summit, the President said that as one of South Africa’s most important trade and investment partners, the European Union can play a catalytic role in unleashing the productive capacity of our economy and equip our people, especially the youth, to participate in the economy of the future.

    READ | President Ramaphosa engages EU on new investment package

    “We hope we can continue to rely on the support of the European Union and its member states in our efforts to alleviate poverty, transition to a low-carbon economy, invest in climate-resilient infrastructure and grow our industrial capacity,” the President explained. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: World News in Brief: Fresh fighting in eastern DR Congo, global trade update, elections in CAR, Pakistan train hijack

    Source: United Nations 2

    Peace and Security

    Fresh fighting in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has displaced tens of thousands of families, with children particularly at risk, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) warned on Friday.

    Over 850,000 civilians have been displaced in South Kivu province, nearly half of them children, according to the agency.

    Many are living in precarious conditions, sheltering in schools, churches or in the open, lacking clean water and sanitation, healthcare and education.

    Grave violations against children have also sharply risen, including sexual violence, killings, maiming and their recruitment by armed groups.

    “We are facing an unprecedented protection crisis. Children are being targeted. They are being killed, recruited, torn from their families and exposed to horrific sexual and physical violence,” said Jean François Basse, UNICEF’s acting head in the DRC.

    The fighting has also disrupted vital services and humanitarian operations, with the closure of Kavumu Airport near the provincial capital Bukavu and banks delaying critical aid operations.

    The region is also witnessing an uptick in cholera, measles and mpox outbreaks.

    UNICEF is working to re-open schools and support health centres, urging all parties to respect international law and ensure unhindered aid access.

    “We call on all parties to the conflict to immediately cease hostilities, protect children, respect international humanitarian law and guarantee rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access,” said Mr. Basse.

    New risks loom for global trade, warns UN body

    While global trade started 2025 on stable ground, challenges are mounting, according to the UN trade and development body, UNCTAD.

    In its latest Global Trade Update, which covers data through early March, the UN body reported record growth in 2024, with international trade expanding to $33 trillion, but looking to 2025, new risks loom, including trade imbalances, evolving policies and geopolitical tensions.

    The trade gap between developing and advanced economies is widening. While Asia and Latin America remain key trade drivers, growth has slowed in advanced economies, UNCTAD said.

    It added that nearshoring and friendshoring – business strategies where companies relocate their operations to a country geographically closer to their main market to reduce costs – reversed in 2024.

    UNCTAD noted that some governments are expanding tariffs, subsidies and industrial policies, reshaping trade flows.

    “The United States, EU and others are increasingly tying trade measures to economic security and climate goals while China is using stimulus policies to maintain export momentum,” it added.

    UNCTAD underscored the need for global cooperation and balanced policies in the face of growing trade uncertainty.

    “The challenge in 2025 is to prevent global fragmentation – where nations form isolated trade blocs – while managing policy shifts without undermining long-term growth. The actions taken now by governments and businesses will shape trade resilience for years to come,” it said.

    © UNDP/Tamara Tschentscher

    A container ship at the Mombasa Port in Kenya, a key transit for trade in the region.

    Voter registration starts in Central African Republic

    Meanwhile, the second and third phases of voter registrations are underway in the Central African Republic (CAR), supported by the UN peacekeeping mission there, MINUSCA.

    The campaign will cover nine of the country’s 20 prefectures and overseas centres.

    “Our peacekeeping mission has actively contributed to the launch of the operations by providing logistical support, including the deployment of equipment by plane from Bangui to the regions as well as several hundred electoral agents,” UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric told reporters at the regular news briefing in New York.

    Peacekeepers are also helping secure the process by deploying to tense areas to enable all Central Africans to have access to registration centres, he added.

    Mission personnel also escorted road convoys carrying registration kits as well as electoral staff. They are also working in collaboration with UN Women to increase the number of women on the voter list by facilitating the issuance of identity documents.

    The voter registration exercise precedes local, legislative and presidential elections scheduled for later this year and in 2026.

    The local elections – to be held for the first time in nearly 40 years – are a key component of the Central African Peace Agreement and offer a unique opportunity for enhanced governance at the local level, Mr. Dujarric said.

    UN Security Council condemns Pakistan train attack

    UN Security Council members condemned Tuesday’s terrorist attack on the Jaffar Express passenger train, which was travelling from Quetta to Peshawar in Pakistan.

    The armed group Balochistan Liberation Army attacked the train near the city of Sibi in Balochistan province and subsequently took its passengers hostages.

    The standoff ended on Wednesday, with Pakistani security forces conducting an operation and killing the attackers. According to media reports, 21 hostages and four members of the security forces were also killed.

    In a press statement, members of the Security Council “reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security”.

    They underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organisers, financiers and sponsors of such acts of terrorism accountable and urged all States, in accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant Security Council resolutions, to cooperate actively with the Government of Pakistan in this regard.

    “The members of the Security Council reiterated that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed,” the statement added.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Youth Must Have Leadership Role in Dismantling Patriarchal Norms, Financing Gender Equality, Women’s Commission Hears as It Concludes First Week

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    Gender Justice Cannot Be Achieved without Ending Discrimination against Indigenous Women, Girls, Those with Disabilities, Speakers Stress

    The Commission on the Status of Women wrapped up its first week today, with a dialogue among youth representatives who stressed the need to include the next generation of leaders not only in conversations about women and girls’ empowerment but in leadership roles that fight for disability inclusion, finance gender equality, dismantle patriarchal norms and defend Indigenous voices. 

    The United Nations kicked off the sixty-ninth session of the Commission this week, focusing on accelerating the adoption of the Platform for Action adopted at the 1995 Beijing Conference on Women.  Leaders gathered in Beijing 30 years ago to pledge to achieve gender equality and uphold women’s rights.  Discussions this session also focused on contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

    Kateryna Levchenko, Government Commissioner for Gender Equality Policy of Ukraine and Chair of the meeting, said that 30 years after its adoption, the Beijing Platform for Action still mobilizes Member States, the United Nations, feminist movements, civil society organizations, young people and other stakeholders.  “It continues to be an unprecedented consensus on the actions needed to advance gender equality and women’s and girls’ human rights and their empowerment,” she said.

    However, 30 years after the 1995 World Conference on Women, no country has fully achieved gender equality.  That’s why Member States must recommit to its full implementation, she stressed, and identify synergies with other global commitments, working in partnership with civil society, young people, the UN and the private sector.  With just five years until the 2030 target date for achieving the SDGs, the Platform holds the key to unblock bottlenecks and accelerate much needed progress.

    Fenna Timsi, UN Youth Representative for Human Rights and Security of the Netherlands, said that today’s youth representatives represent large networks who have been on the frontlines of fighting for women and girls rights.  “They will reflect on the progress made since the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and the Platform for Action, sharing insights, voicing challenges and proposing solutions to persistent issues such as gender-based violence, access to education and economic empowerment,” she noted.  The 2024 review and appraisal of the Beijing process with more than 150 States reporting on their actions is a “a clear testament” to the pact’s continued relevance and power. 

    30 Years after Landmark Women’s Conference in Beijing, Gender Equality an Unfulfilled Promise

    Sima Sami Bahous, Executive Director of the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN-Women), delivering opening remarks, commended the young representatives for their activism and “for your constant reminder to us all to do more, to do better, to be better”. Thirty years on, gender equality remains an unfulfilled promise.  “But one thing is clear, you, young people, are not waiting,” she emphasized.  “Each of your contributions has spoken to a truth that we cannot ignore,” she said, stressing:  “Progress cannot be partial.  Change must be transformative and inclusive.”

    The Beijing Platform for Action remains the most powerful framework for gender equality, she went on.  “Since its adoption, we have seen strides — more women in politics, stronger laws against gender-based violence, greater access to education,” she described.  But progress has been too slow and too uneven.  Women still hold only 27 per cent of parliamentary seats, which, while up from 11 per cent in 1995, is not enough.  One in three women globally continues to face physical or sexual violence, “a crisis we cannot accept as inevitable”.  In the face of climate crisis, economic inequalities and humanitarian disasters, it is young women and adolescent girls who bear the brunt, are displaced, denied education, and made more vulnerable to violence. 

    World Not Designed for Women with Disabilities to Thrive

    Eva Chisom Chukwunelo, Amputee Peer Counselor at the Mobility Clinic Limited in Nigeria, said that all women, no matter where they come from, should have the right to education, healthcare and leadership.  But as a young woman with a disability, she wondered, “did that promise include me?”  At 17, she said she stood at the crossroads, between two versions of her life. “One moment, I was a teenage girl with dreams, and the next, I was a girl with a disability, unsure of what my future held,” she added.  “That was when I realized the world is not designed for women with disabilities to thrive, and if we do not demand justice, it never will be,” she said.  Gender justice is incomplete if it does not include women and girls with disabilities. 

    How many girls with disabilities are missing from classrooms, not because they lack intelligence, but because inclusion is seen as too expensive, she asked.  How many women with disabilities are absent from decision-making spaces, not because they lack vision, but because the world refuses to see their potential, she also wondered.  “If you are not counted, then you do not count,” she said, urging countries to disaggregate data by gender, disability and age.  Governments must actively engage young women with disabilities in policy creation and leadership.  Schools must be built for all learners, healthcare systems must train providers to respect and serve women with disabilities, and leadership spaces must be welcoming, “not just in words, but in action”. 

    Meaningful Youth Engagement Key to Shaping Policy

    “Meaningful youth engagement in the Beijing processes is crucial to shape policies that address our concerns, reflect our aspirations and make us part of the leadership, rather than just part of the conversation,” said Ema Mecaj, member of the Beijing+30 Youth Steering Committee.  Over the past few days, the voice of young people has been clear.  “We should not take this progress for granted, but we need to speak up for the challenges and voice the untold stories of many women and girls who daily face the impacts of misogyny and gender stereotypes,” she said. 

    She noted that, according to the World Bank, 712 million people live in extreme poverty, with women and girls being disproportionately affected by the adverse impacts of the climate crisis and displacement.  Globally in 2023, 51,000 women and girls were killed by their intimate partners or other family members. “These statistics are unacceptable and unfortunately reflect the broken reality,” she said.  As a medical student, she said that prevention strategies are needed to eradicate poverty, especially the feminization of poverty, and respond to technology facilitated gender-based violence.  

    Role of Boys and Men in Tackling Patriarchal Masculinities

     “We must stop placing the burden on women to endure and navigate the toxicity of patriarchal systems and instead confront patriarchal masculinities as the root cause of their oppression,” said Ahdithya Visweswaran, Governance Coordinator at Young Diplomats of Canada.  It is essential to tackle the ideological roots of patriarchal norms that perpetuate inequality and violence.  Young men and boys must see themselves not as inherent opponents, but as natural allies and co-beneficiaries of the gender equality agenda.  “Men and boys must no longer be seen as peripheral participants, but as indispensable stakeholders in this broader struggle for justice and equality,” he said. 

    But transformation cannot be simply achieved through narratives, it requires institutionalization, and the active participation of families, schools, communities and Governments, he stressed.  For far too long, efforts to engage men and boys have been limited to pilot programmes, often disconnected from the broader systems and the broader work that’s being done.  The socialization of boys is one of the most powerful yet underutilized tools for advancing gender equality.  “We’re shaped by the environments in which we are raised,” he said, adding that positive role models can cultivate a new generation of men who embrace equity, reject violence, and build healthier masculinities.  

    Systemic and Structural Discrimination against Indigenous Women

    Laura Huertas, Founder of ANYAR (Indigenous youth organization), said that many of the Beijing commitments have still not been fulfilled, particularly in rural areas, Indigenous areas, and in other marginal sectors of Latin America and the Caribbean.  There and in other regions of the Global South, socioeconomic and political inequalities persist, despite progress in terms of access to education, health, and political participation of women. 

    “Being an Indigenous woman in Latin America is not easy, because we face the forced displacement within our territories, systematic discrimination, and structural discrimination,” she said.  “In my territory alone, 76.9 per cent of people live in multidimensional poverty, and more than 62 per cent have to live outside their ancestral lands,” she said.  Beijing+30 is “a cry of resistance”, she said, adding that “we don’t want just hollow roundtables”. 

    Financial Freedom and Justice Key to Advance Women’s Agency

    Sanjana Chhantyal, Manager at the Criterion Institute, said that financial system was not designed for women and undervalues women’s care work.  “It decides what is valuable, and by extension, who is valuable,” she said.  Systemic barriers have prevented women from building wealth and acquiring financial assets such as land and property; yet financial institutions traditionally look for the presence of financial assets or collateral to decide who gets access to finance. 

    “Let us call it what it is, a poverty trap,” she said.  Gender equality cannot be achieved without financial freedom and financial justice for all women and girls.  “Financial independence supports our agency and our ability to advocate for our rights, step away from abusive situations and make choices about our health, education and careers,” she said.  Empowered women empower other women and their communities.  “Justice is not only about the absence of barriers, but also presence of opportunities,” she stressed. 

    __________

    *     The 9th & 10th meetings were not covered.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: No food deliveries to Gaza as border closures continue

    Source: United Nations 2

    Humanitarian Aid

    The UN emergency food relief agency has not been able to transport any aid into the Gaza Strip, due to the ongoing closure of all border crossing points, which is now in its twelfth day, the UN Spokesperson said on Friday.

    There is also a shortage of fuel, which is affecting the movement of vehicles across Gaza and slowing down first responders, Stéphane Dujarric told journalists at the regular news briefing in New York.

    “The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) notes that oxygen supplies and electricity generators are also critically needed to maintain life-saving operations at hospitals in Gaza,” he said.

    “At least two dozen additional generators are needed for health centres, as the ones currently in use need maintenance and spare parts,” he added.

    Rising food prices and fuel shortages

    Within the enclave, the World Food Programme (WFP) has food stocks sufficient to support active kitchens and bakeries for up to one month, as well as ready-to-eat food parcels to support 550,000 people for two weeks, Mr. Dujarric said.

    To stretch supplies, the agency is reducing the quantity of food parcels provided to families – a measure it had already implemented before the ceasefire, he added.

    A total of 25 bakeries are supported by the agency, but on 8 March, six of these bakeries were forced to close due to a shortage of cooking gas.

    The closure of border crossings has also triggered a sharp rise in food prices, with costs for staples such as flour and sugar rising, further limiting access.

    Rising displacement

    Meanwhile, the situation in the West Bank continues to deteriorate.

    OCHA has recorded a surge in settler violence in parts of the West Bank, “causing casualties, property damage and placing communities at high risk of displacement,” reported Mr. Dujarric.

    The Office also noted a sharp increase in the demolition of Palestinian-owned structures in the West Bank over the past week and a half, with the number of structures demolished during the first 10 days of Ramadan this year having already exceeded the total for all of Ramadan in 2024.

    Since Monday, operations in Jenin city also intensified, with more than 500 people displaced from three neighbourhoods in the eastern part of the city, he added.

    Urgent funding needed

    WFP is supporting over 190,000 people with monthly cash vouchers and has provided one-off assistance to thousands of those most in need.

    However, the agency requires $265 million in funding over the next six months to sustain operations that assist 1.4 million people in Gaza and the West Bank.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Earlier food security gains in Gaza at risk; food insecurity concerns grow in West Bank

    Source: World Food Programme

    GAZA, Palestine – The following are the latest updates on food security and WFP operations in Gaza and the West Bank.

    Gaza

    • In the 42 days of the ceasefire starting 19 January, WFP delivered over 40,000 metric tons of food into Gaza and provided lifesaving assistance to 1.3 million people. In addition, over US$ 6.8 million in electronic cash assistance (e-wallets) supported nearly 135,000 people (26,600 households), helping families to buy what they needed most. 
    • Since March 2, WFP has not been able to transport any food supplies into Gaza due to the closure of all border crossing points for both humanitarian and commercial supplies.  
    • WFP currently has sufficient food stocks to support active kitchens and bakeries for up to one month, as well as ready-to-eat food parcels to support 550,000 people for two weeks.
    • WFP has approximately 63,000 metric tons of food destined for Gaza, stored or in transit in the region. This is equivalent two to three months of distributions for 1.1 million people, pending authorization to enter Gaza.
    • In the first week of March, WFP was able to sustain its activities in Gaza using stocks brought in during the ceasefire; WFP provided food assistance to some 73,000 vulnerable people across Gaza during this period.
    • As it did prior to the ceasefire, WFP is reducing the quantity of ready-to-eat food parcels provided to families to stretch its supplies and serve more people in need.
    • Right now, WFP supports 33 kitchens across Gaza providing a total of 180,000 hot meals daily.
    • A total of 25 bakeries are also supported by WFP, but on March 8 six of these bakeries were forced to close due to a shortage of cooking gas.
    • Commercial food prices have begun to surge since the March 2 closure of border crossings. In some cases, prices on staple items such as flour, sugar, and vegetables have increased over 200 percent. Traders have begun withholding goods due to uncertainty over when new supplies would arrive.  

    West Bank

    • WFP is increasingly concerned about growing food insecurity in the West Bank, where military activity, displacement, and movement restrictions are disrupting markets and limiting access to food. 
    • Tens of thousands of people in the West Bank have been displaced since mid-January.
    • These disruptions and the worsening economic conditions over the last year are putting upward pressure on prices. With rising displacement and unemployment, even basic food items have become unaffordable for many families. 
    • WFP is supporting more than 190,000 people with monthly cash vouchers and has provided one-off assistance to 16,000 people most in need. Humanitarian cash assistance can be delivered efficiently through local supply chains and markets. It also helps to stabilize the economy.   

    WFP needs US$265 million in funding for the next six months for operations to assist 1.4 million people in Gaza and the West Bank.

    Broadcast quality video available at this link.

    #                 #                   #

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

    Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_media 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s central bank to grow financial ecosystem that supports tech innovation

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China’s central bank will work to cultivate a financial ecosystem that supports technological innovation, the central bank said on Friday.

    The bank will provide targeted support for key national technology initiatives and small and medium-sized enterprises in the field of tech, according to a statement issued by the People’s Bank of China.

    It will enhance the quality and effectiveness of green financial services further, providing strong support for the green, low-carbon development of China’s economy and society.

    It will also enhance its capability to provide financial services for the elderly care sector, and develop digital finance actively and steadily.

    Efforts will be made to defuse financial debt risks associated with financing platforms, supporting local governments to promote the market-oriented transformation of those platforms, the bank said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s humanoid robot craze sparks surge in rentals

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Two humanoid robots walk forward at the exhibition hall of Unitree Robotics in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Feb. 20, 2025. (Xinhua/Huang Zongzhi)

    In a mesmerizing display at a recent show in Hangzhou, eastern China’s leading tech hub, a dozen humanoid robots twisted and twirled in perfect sync, their joints clattering to the rhythm of joyful music as they captivated the audience and drew waves of cheers.

    The spectacle reflects a growing trend, with businesses and individuals increasingly renting humanoid robots for performances, exhibitions, and livestreams to grab public attention.

    These robots shot to fame earlier this year when a fleet from Unitree, a Chinese robotics startup, mesmerized audiences with a synchronized dance in colorful jackets at the Spring Festival Gala, one of China’s most-watched broadcasts. The overwhelming public attention and ensuing robot craze have since turned them into a sought-after commodity in the rental market.

    “Orders for Unitree’s G1 humanoid robot rentals have been surging since early February, with bookings already lined up through late March,” said Gao Lai, who has been engaged in the robot rental business for over a decade. His company provided the rented robots for the show in Hangzhou, capital of Zhejiang Province.

    “The daily rental price for a humanoid robot ranges from 8,000 to 15,000 yuan (about 1,115 to 2,091 U.S. dollars). With the booming demand, we anticipate our earnings to rise by 80 percent this year,” Gao added.

    In terms of presale, Unitree’s G1 model starts at 99,000 yuan, while the H1 model has a starting price of 650,000 yuan.

    Industry insiders told Xinhua that the growing demand for robots in business events, exhibitions and shows is fueling the expansion of the robot rental market, which holds great potential.

    On Xianyu, one of China’s largest second-hand goods trading platforms, renting a Unitree robot can cost thousands of yuan, often covering transportation, machine adjustments and on-site support.

    In Hangzhou’s Yuhang District, where the recent show took place, local authorities plan to host more robot shows and tutorial sessions in rural areas by renting robots.

    “Dancing with robots grabs attention, and we hope to partner with companies to introduce AI to rural communities,” said Zhang Jingcan, a district official.

    “The concept of humanoid robots is nothing new. Since the first one was developed in Japan in the 1960s, they’ve been a focal point of global competition,” said Xiong Rong, a professor at Zhejiang University and head of Zhejiang Humanoid Robot Innovation Center.

    “Powered by AI, our robots are making progress faster than I anticipated,” said Wang Xingxing, CEO of Unitree Robotics. “We’ve upgraded the software algorithms in our humanoid robots to make them more agile and improve their dancing skills.”

    However, some uncertainties exist when applying humanoid robots in more complicated scenarios at home or in businesses that require more flexible and diverse human-robot interactions.

    “Humanoid robots will reach new heights by the end of this year, and if all goes well, we could see them deployed in some service or industrial sectors next year or the year after,” said Wang. “However, home-use models might see slower adoption due to higher security requirement.”

    Emphasizing the importance of security in robot applications, Xiong said: “Only by ensuring the safety of human-robot interactions, the robot itself, and the data can we achieve large-scale production.”

    Many industry insiders agree that the ultimate goal for humanoid robots is to evolve into general-purpose robots capable of adapting to diverse environments and performing a wide range of tasks without relying on specific sites or tools. Achieving this goal will require advancements in AI, high-end manufacturing and new materials, driven by academia and industry collaboration.

    With surging demand and continuous innovation, China’s humanoid robot market is forecast to see exponential growth in the following years, clinching a significant share of the global market.

    According to a report on the humanoid robot industry released at the 2024 World AI Conference in Shanghai, China’s humanoid robot market was estimated at 2.76 billion yuan last year. By 2029, it is expected to reach 75 billion yuan, accounting for 32.7 percent of the global market. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: National botches health funding numbers

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    Health Minister Simeon Brown’s claim that the Government has put $16.68 billion into the health system over three years is wrong.

    Simeon Brown has repeatedly claimed the Government is putting “$16.68 billion more put into our health system over three years” when the actual amount is half that at $8.4 billion.

    “The Health Minister should learn how to read government accounts. He should be referring to spending over three government budgets – some of that money will not be spent until 2030 – not three years,” Labour health spokesperson Ayesha Verrall said.

    He made the $16.68 billion claim in a speech to the BusinessNZ Health Forum, in the media, and in Parliament.

    “This is rich coming from a government that delights in calling others in the health sector financially illiterate but can’t read their own budget,” Ayesha Verrall said.

    “The Government has not funded the health system enough to keep up with costs, and services are being cut as a result.

    “We know that front line staff are bearing the brunt of the chaotic cuts at Health New Zealand and patient care is suffering because of it.

    “New Zealanders are feeling it in their back pocket too. The cost of going to your GP has gone up, costs for prescriptions have gone up and it’s harder to get an appointment.

    “This is what happens with a minister doesn’t understand what life is like for patients, carers and healthcare workers,” Ayesha Verrall said.

    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Participates in 353rd Governing Body Meeting of International Labour Organisation in Geneva

    Source: Government of India (2)

    India Participates in 353rd Governing Body Meeting of International Labour Organisation in Geneva

    Ms. Sumita Dawra, Secretary, Labour & Employment Leads Delegation and Makes Interventions on Key Global Labour and Employment Issues

    Secretary, L&E Holds Bilateral Discussions with Director-General and Senior Experts of ILO and Representatives of Other Countries

    India Reaffirms its commitment to Continue to Act as a Leading Voice on Advancing Labour Welfare, Quality Employment and Social Justice at Global Forum

    Social Protection, Responsible Business Conduct, Living Wages, AI and Future of Work, and Fair Global Migration Emerge as Key Areas of India-ILO Collaboration

    Posted On: 15 MAR 2025 12:34PM by PIB Delhi

    The 353rd Governing Body meeting of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) is being held in Geneva, Switzerland, from March 10 to March 20, 2025. The meeting brings together the tripartite constituents of ILO i.e. representatives from governments, workers, and employers, to discuss crucial matters relating to the world of work and the governance of ILO.

    The Indian delegation, led by Ms. Sumita Dawra, Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India, made several interventions on key issues, showcasing India’s achievements, learnings and perspectives to advance the shared agenda of promoting labour welfare, social justice and quality employment generation globally.

    Second World Summit for Social Development

    India extended its support to ILO on the organization of the UN led Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha, Qatar later this year, as it aims at reinforcing the social dimension of the 2030 Agenda for Social Development. India’s inspiring progress in promoting social justice and development was highlighted, as India has doubled its social protection coverage to 48.8 percent, increasing the average global social protection coverage by over 5 percent.

    In this context, contribution of India’s flagship institutions and schemes such as EPFO (7.37 crore contributing members), ESIC (14.4 crore beneficiaries), e-Shram Portal (30.6 crore registered unorganized members), PM Jan Arogya Yojana (60 crore beneficiaries) and Targeted PDS (food security to 81.35 crore beneficiaries) was acknowledged.

    ILO Fair Migration Agenda and Action

    India, as one of the largest countries of origin of migrant workers and recipient of highest remittances, reiterated its support for greater global cooperation in promoting well-managed, skills-based migration pathways. ILO was urged to enhance efforts towards generating global momentum for securing social protection and rights for migrant workers through bilateral labour migration and social security agreements. Support was extended for ILO’s proposal to convene the first Tripartite Global Forum on Migration under the ILO based Global Coalition for Social Justice, by India as a leading partner of the Global Coalition.

    Global Framework on Chemicals

    India reaffirmed its commitment towards playing a leading role towards ensuring a planet free of harm from chemicals and waste, safeguarding workers, communities and the environment. The actions being undertaken by ILO in follow up to the Bonn Declaration were acknowledged.

    Key initiatives taken by India towards safeguarding the health and safety of workers and communities including Factories Act, 1948 and Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020, were underscored. Capacity-building measures under the Viksit Bharat 2047 Action Plan towards ensuring workplace safety in Major Accident Hazardous (MAH) units were highlighted.

    The Indian delegation also held several bilateral discussions with the Director General and senior experts of ILO, and representatives of other countries on labour and employment matters of keen interest to India.

    Bilateral Discussion with Director General-ILO

    Ms. Dawra met Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo, the DG-ILO and congratulated him for his flagship initiative the Global Coalition for Social Justice, which has emerged as a robust platform for global collaboration to promote social justice. She also reiterated the need for ILO to consider in-kind benefits while assessing social protection coverage.

    This is crucial as India has commenced a State Specific Data Pooling exercise in collaboration with ILO to get a more accurate assessment of India’s social protection coverage.

    DG-ILO appreciated India for playing a leading role in the Global Coalition by championing the key Coalition intervention “Responsible business for sustainable and inclusive societies,” and successfully organizing the first ever “Regional Dialogue on Social Justice” at New Delhi last month. He added, “This has inspired other Coalition countries (partners) to enhance their contribution to the Coalition’s agenda”.

    Mr. Houngbo invited India to participate pro-actively in the upcoming Annual Forum on Social Justice, and showcase best practices of Indian industry in terms of Responsible Business Conduct, payment of Living Wages, and harnessing AI for a socially just Future of Work.

    The DG also expressed his appreciation for India’s first ever voluntary financial support to ILO towards conduct of a feasibility study on development of international reference classification of occupations by ILO and OECD. This India led initiative will facilitate in galvanizing global employment opportunities for Indian youth through benchmarking, and mutual recognition of skills and qualifications. Development of the international classification is a historic commitment made by the G20 leaders under India’s G20 presidency of 2023.

    India discussed future collaborations in pipeline with ILO on shared priorities including determination and operationalization of living wages, gig and platform workers’ welfare and decent work in value chains. The Indian delegation included Shri Rakesh Gaur, Deputy Director, Ministry of Labour & Employment.

    *****

    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2111473) Visitor Counter : 155

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Aguilar: We need a Democratic House to protect the American people

    Source: US House of Representatives – Democratic Caucus

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI – March 12, 2025

    LEESBURG, VA — Today, House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar and Vice Chair Ted Lieu opened the 2025 Issues Conference alongside Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Whip Katherine Clark, Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Chair Suzan DelBene and Assistant Leader Joe Neguse.

    CHAIRMAN AGUILAR: Welcome everyone. Pleasure to be joined by my colleagues and we’ll be joined by DCCC Chair Suzan DelBene here shortly. Just so thrilled to be here with Vice Chair Ted Lieu in putting this conference together. And of course, Leader Jeffries, Whip Clark and Assistant Leader Neguse. We could not do this without the support of the Democratic Leadership team, and we feel all that support throughout our time here. 

    In the first seven weeks of the Trump Administration, we have seen nothing but chaos, confusion and corruption coming out of the White House. House Republicans have either stayed silent as their constituents get hurt or are voting to rip away health care for millions of Americans to pay for tax giveaways for billionaires. 

    House Democrats have been united in standing up for Medicaid to keep health care more affordable. House Democrats have been united in honoring our veterans who have fallen victim to Elon Musk’s reckless cuts to the VA health care system. We’ve been united in protecting Social Security, even as the President of the United States used his joint address to lay out the groundwork for cutting these benefits—by lying to our country about the claims of 100-year-old beneficiaries. And all of us remain united in our overarching message to make Leader Jeffries, Speaker Jeffries, no later than next year. 

    We’re going to talk about all of this over the course of the next few days, and we’re going to put the needs of the American people front and center in everything that we do. The economy that House Democrats helped build is in a free fall. In 2026, we need a Democratic House to protect the American people from the costly missteps of the Trump Administration. With that, I’ll introduce Leader Jeffries.

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Thank you, Chairman Aguilar and Vice Chair Lieu for your leadership, for convening House Democrats and for the manner in which you have presided over the House Democratic Caucus in such an effective way during these very challenging times. 

    Donald Trump and House Republicans are crashing the American economy in real time and leading us toward a possible recession. Donald Trump and House Republicans promised that they would lower the high cost of living on day one. Costs aren’t going down. They’re going up. Inflation is going up. The stock market is going down. Consumer confidence is going down. Consumer spending is going down. The retirement security of the American people is going down. And it’s all connected to the chaos, confusion and corruption of the Trump Administration and Extreme MAGA Republicans.

    House Democrats remain united in the effort to protect Medicaid and the health care of the American people. We remain united as it relates to protecting Social Security and Medicare. House Democrats strongly oppose the reckless Republican spending bill that will hurt families, hurt seniors and hurt veterans. House Democrats remain committed to building an affordable economy and driving down the high cost of living for everyday Americans. And House Democrats are united in our understanding that we must take back the Majority next year with the fierce urgency of now. 

    One of the Members who has led us in such an extraordinary way, both as it relates to keeping Democrats together, as was the case yesterday, and of course, as it relates to the House Republican devastating budget resolution, is our dynamic Whip, the Honorable Katherine Clark.

    WHIP CLARK: Thank you so much, Mr. Leader. And to Chairman Aguilar and Vice Chair Lieu, we are so grateful to you for, once again, organizing this opportunity to come together as Democrats. 

    This is always a powerful opportunity at Issues Conference, but this year, especially, we are really grateful because we have a lot to dig into. Especially, the last 24 hours have shown a stark illustration of what we’re fighting to stop: a Republican Party that promised to put more money in the pockets of working people. They turned around and stole their money— stole from their own constituents, from their schools, their health care, their retirement—all to cut billionaire taxes and funnel corrupt contracts to Elon Musk. 

    Just look at the split screen. People can’t afford their rent. They can’t afford eggs. And what is Trump doing? He is hawking luxury car brands of his biggest donor on the White House lawn. The same day, he is slashing the Department of Education in half, going after 180,000 teachers whose jobs depend on federal funding, 7.5 million special education teachers who get federal support and the 90% of kids in this country who attend our public schools, and that’s just the start. 

    Yesterday’s defunding bill is going to wreak havoc on working families, and once again, it’s women and girls who will pay the heaviest price. The domestic violence survivors; they’re voting to evict them. The overworked VA nurses; 84% of whom are women who are either fired or being forced to take on even heavier workloads. The patients watching Republicans defund Alzheimer’s disease, breast cancer and maternal mortality research. The moms who are searching for affordable child care. Whether it’s born out of cruelty, cowardice or corruption, or all three, the GOP is hell bent on making families at home unsafe. 

    So, we recognize these are brutal and scary times. But here’s our message to the American people: House Democrats stand with you. We are fighting alongside you. We are not going to let House Republicans get away with this crime spree. Every day, leaders from our Caucus are holding the line, and especially, a little preview, the extraordinary women who have joined our ranks this Caucus, that I hope you will come join me at 10:15 a.m. tomorrow to meet our freshman women. But in the meantime, I will turn it over to another remarkable leader, our field general and talented Chair of the DCCC, Suzan DelBene. 

    DCCC CHAIR DELBENE: Good afternoon, everyone. Just a little over two months into their trifecta, House Republicans are well on their way to breaking the economy. Consumer confidence is evaporating. A new CNN poll today shows the majority of Americans disapprove of Trump’s handling of the economy. A record high stock market has lost all its gains since January, and prices continue to rise at the grocery store, the gas pump and the pharmacy counter. 

    Affordability was the number one issue for voters last election, but House Republicans have done nothing to lower prices. Promises were made. Promises are broken. Their tariffs will raise prices and create massive uncertainty for businesses, small and large. A small business owner in my district recently told me he’s already losing business. He’s not sure if he can be competitive price-wise going forward. Just the uncertainty alone of whether tariffs will be there or not has caused him to lose business. And what’s more, the stop and start and chaotic nature of these tariffs continues to be extremely harmful. It’s easy to lose business. It’s hard to get it back. And House Republicans seem fine with this. They dismiss the damage they’re causing as a little disturbance. But when a farmer can’t buy the fertilizer they need during planting season right now, or export their crops, that’s not a little disturbance. It’s incredibly harmful to their business. And Republicans promise to support our businesses, our farmers and our workers, but with these tariffs, they’re doing exactly the opposite. 

    House Democrats and the American people are going to hold Republicans accountable for their broken promises, and we’re already seeing across the country people standing up and speaking out against their dangerous agenda. The public is opposed to their cuts to Medicaid. They’re opposed to the mass layoffs of firefighters, of inspectors in charge of combating bird flu, of veterans who are supporting veterans at the Veterans Administration. House Republicans know how unpopular their agenda is, which is why vulnerable House Republicans have stopped holding in person town halls. They can try to hide all they want, but they can’t hide from voters forever. 

    The frustration and anger we’re seeing across the country should send a loud message to House Republicans. People are ready for a change, and they’re ready to help House Democrats take back the gavels. So, now I want to turn it over to our incredible Vice Chair from the great state of California, Ted Lieu

    VICE CHAIR LIEU: Good afternoon. Chairman Aguilar and I are excited about this year’s Issues Conference. And let me start by thanking Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Whip Clark and Chairman Aguilar for their strong leadership and unifying the Democratic Caucus against the Republican CR. That was a strong show of force yesterday by House Democrats.

    Donald Trump, last week, came to Congress and he lied to the American people. He promised a Golden Age. Instead, we’re entering a Trump Slump. We see that prices have increased, especially egg prices. We see the stock market is down, approximately 2,500 points since Trump took office. And consumer sentiment is down, and this is because of his chaotic policies such as indiscriminate tariffs, and then his weakness and indecisiveness and flip-flopping on those tariffs that is causing a lot of chaos in the markets. He’s also doing harmful things like cutting scientists and inspectors who work on bird flu. He’s cutting funding for scientists who are working on diseases such as ALS, Alzheimer’s and cancer. And the American people are noticing. 

    In January, Democrats flipped a state Senate seat in Iowa that Trump had won by 21 points, and just this week, in another special election Iowa for a House Delegate seat, our candidate over performed by 24 points. 

    With our Field General Suzan DelBene, we’re going to flip the House next year, and I look forward to working with this entire Leadership team in doing so. It’s now my honor to introduce Joe Neguse who has done a fantastic job as Assistant Democratic Leader.

    ASSISTANT LEADER NEGUSE: Good afternoon. I thank you all for being here. Thank you to Chair Aguilar, Vice Chair Lieu, for convening us for the important conversations that will ensue over the next two days, and of course to Leader Jeffries, Whip Clark and Chairwoman DelBene for their incredible leadership over the course of these last several years.

    There’s a headline that I came across this morning that I think so well encapsulates the chaos and the dysfunction that we are living through in the precarious moment that we find ourselves in, from CBS News. The headline is this, “Lutnick says Trump’s policies are ‘worth it’, even if they lead to a recession.” The Lutnick, of course, that this article is referring to, is President Trump’s Commerce Secretary. Think about that for a second. That in his view, these reckless economic policies are worth it, even if they cause a recession. And it appears they will get their wish, as you heard Vice Chair Lieu, Chair Aguilar, Leader Jefferies, Whip Clark, Chairwoman DelBene describe the economic havoc that President Trump and his Administration have created over just the course of these last seven weeks. Stock market crashing. Job losses piling up. 401Ks vanishing. The prices for everyday goods going up across the board. Federal workers, folks at the Forest Service, wildland firefighters in my district back home in Colorado, purged from the federal government. Agencies being dismantled. All of this has real world consequences for the people that we are all so privileged to serve here in the United States Congress. 

    The time for the Trump Administration to abandon these reckless policies is now. They warrant a decisive, comprehensive response from House Democrats, which is precisely what we’ve done for the better part of the last seven weeks and we look forward to having more discussions on our response in the days ahead.

    And with that, I’ll turn it back to Chairman Aguilar. 

    Video of the full press conference can be viewed here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –