Category: Business

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: National Geospatial Policy 2022

    Source: Government of India

    National Geospatial Policy 2022

    “Powering India’s Vision for Viksit Bharat”

    Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 1:22PM by PIB Delhi

    The democratization of Indian geospatial ecosystem will spur domestic innovation and enable Indian companies to compete in the global mapping ecosystem by leveraging modern geospatial technologies and realising the dream of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ fully.

    -Dr Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Ministry of Science and Technology

    Introduction

    The National Geospatial Policy, 2022, notified by the Government of India on December 28, 2022, is a transformative policy aimed at positioning India as a global leader in the geospatial sector. With a long-term vision extending to 2035, the policy seeks to liberalize and democratize access to geospatial data, fostering innovation and enabling its widespread use across governance, businesses, and academia.

    At its core, the policy is citizen-centric, ensuring that geospatial datasets generated with public funds are openly accessible. It outlines a strategic roadmap for the development of geospatial infrastructure, services, and platforms at both national and sub-national levels. One of its key goals is to establish a high-resolution topographical survey and mapping system by 2030, alongside a highly accurate Digital Elevation Model (DEM) for the entire country.

    Recognizing the importance of geospatial technology in governance, economic growth, and societal development, the policy focuses on strengthening institutional frameworks, enhancing national and state-level coordination, and fostering a vibrant geospatial ecosystem. The Department of Science and Technology (DST) plays a pivotal role in this effort by promoting the reuse and open access of geospatial data, products, and services through a network of geospatial platforms.

    By creating an enabling environment for geospatial technology adoption, the policy is expected to drive advancements in urban planning, disaster management, agriculture, environmental conservation, transportation, and various other sectors. This article examines the National Geospatial Policy 2022, focusing on its alignment with PM Gati Shakti, budgetary allocations, the National Geospatial Data Repository, and Operation Dronagiri’s impact on innovation. It also explores how the policy fosters inclusion, economic growth, and private sector participation, ensuring geospatial intelligence enhances governance, business, and public services across India.

    Recent Allocations and Trends from the Union Budget 2025

    In the Union Budget for the fiscal year 2025-26, the government has reinforced its commitment to the geospatial sector:

    • Government of India has allocated ₹100 crore for the National Geospatial Mission. This mission aims to develop foundational geospatial infrastructure and data, playing a crucial role in modernizing land records, urban planning, and infrastructure design. By leveraging PM Gati Shakti, the initiative will facilitate integrated planning, enhance data-driven decision-making, and improve the efficiency of infrastructure projects across the country. This strategic investment underscores the government’s focus on harnessing geospatial technology for economic growth, governance, and sustainable development.
    • To enhance public-private partnerships (PPPs) and support the private sector in project planning, access to relevant geospatial data and maps from the PM Gati Shakti portal will be made available. This initiative aims to streamline infrastructure development, improve decision-making, and foster greater collaboration between the government and private enterprises.

    Vision of the National Geospatial Policy

    To position India as a global leader in the geospatial sector by fostering a world-class innovation ecosystem, leveraging geospatial technology for economic growth, and ensuring easy access to valuable geospatial data for businesses and citizens.

    Goals of the National Geospatial Policy

    By 2025

    • Establish an enabling policy and legal framework to support the liberalization of the geospatial sector and democratization of data.
    • Enhance availability and accessibility of high-quality location data across sectors to drive innovation and enterprise.
    • Develop a unified digital interface for accessing geospatial data collected through public funds.
    • Redefine the National Geodetic Framework using modern positioning technologies, with online accessibility.
    • Create a high-accuracy geoid model for the entire country.
    • Strengthen national and sub-national geospatial governance by fostering collaboration between the government, private sector, academia, and civil society.

    By 2030

    • Conduct high-resolution topographical surveys (5–10 cm for urban/rural areas and 50–100 cm for forests/wastelands).
    • Develop a high-accuracy Digital Elevation Model (DEM) (25 cm for plains, 1–3 m for hilly/mountainous areas).
    • Establish a Geospatial Knowledge Infrastructure (GKI) underpinned by an Integrated Data and Information Framework.
    • Enhance geospatial skills, capabilities, and awareness to meet future technological and economic demands.

    By 2035

    • Generate high-resolution bathymetric geospatial data for inland waters and deep-sea topography to support the Blue Economy.
    • Survey and map sub-surface infrastructure in major cities and towns.
    • Develop a National Digital Twin for major urban centers, creating digital replicas to improve urban planning and management.

    Key Focus Areas of the National Geospatial Policy, 2022

    • Geospatial for Transformation & SDGs – The policy positions geospatial technology and data as key drivers for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), enhancing efficiency across sectors, and ensuring transparency in governance.
    • Atmanirbhar Bharat & Self-Reliance – Recognizing the need for locally relevant geospatial data, the policy aims to foster a self-reliant geospatial ecosystem, empowering Indian companies to compete globally and reduce dependency on foreign providers.
    • Global Best Practices & IGIF – Adopting international frameworks like the Integrated Geospatial Information Framework (IGIF) under UN-GGIM, the policy strengthens India’s national spatial information management.
    • Robust Geospatial & ICT Infrastructure – Establishing a well-defined data custodianship model to ensure the collection, management, and real-time accessibility of high-quality geospatial data for cross-sector collaboration.
    • Fostering Innovation & Startups – Encouraging startups, R&D, and emerging technologies, the policy promotes regulatory modernization and bridges the geospatial digital divide.
    • Standards & Interoperability – Advocating open standards, open data, and compliance frameworks, the policy ensures seamless integration and interoperability of geospatial information.
    • Capacity Development & Education – Promoting geospatial education from school levels, alongside standardized certifications and skill development programs to sustain long-term industry growth.
    • Ease of Doing Business – Continued policy liberalization to attract investment, facilitate business-friendly regulations, and support geospatial enterprises.
    • Democratization of DataSurvey of India (SoI) and other publicly funded geospatial data will be treated as a public good, ensuring easy access and utilization for all stakeholders.

    Geospatial Policy Under PM Gati Shakti

    The National Geospatial Policy (NGP) 2022 is closely aligned with the PM Gati Shakti – National Master Plan for Multi-modal Connectivity, a digital platform launched by the Prime Minister to integrate 16 key Ministries, including Railways and Roadways, for coordinated infrastructure planning and implementation. The initiative aims to facilitate seamless multi-modal connectivity for the movement of people, goods, and services across different modes of transport, ensuring last-mile connectivity and reducing travel time. By leveraging accurate, real-time geospatial data, NGP 2022 plays a critical role in streamlining infrastructure projects, minimizing redundancies, and optimizing resource utilization.

        

    PM Gati Shakti seeks to integrate infrastructure schemes across various Ministries and State Governments. A key aspect of this initiative is the extensive use of geospatial technology, including spatial planning tools developed by ISRO and BiSAG-N. This integration enhances data-driven decision-making for efficient infrastructure development and economic growth.

    National Geospatial Data Repository: A Step Towards Seamless Data Integration

    The National Geospatial Data Repository is being developed to serve as a centralized platform for geospatial data management and access. This repository will consolidate geospatial datasets from various government and private entities, ensuring seamless data sharing, interoperability, and accessibility across multiple sectors.

    With the increasing demand for precise and real-time geospatial intelligence, this repository will act as a critical resource for improving governance, boosting economic development, and advancing digital infrastructure. It aligns with the National Geospatial Policy 2022, reinforcing India’s commitment to leveraging geospatial technology for sustainable growth and enhanced citizen services.

    Operation Dronagiri: Transforming India’s Geospatial Landscape

    Launch and Overview

    Operation Dronagiri, launched on November 13, 2024, is a pilot initiative under the National Geospatial Policy 2022. The project aims to demonstrate the real-world applications of geospatial technologies to enhance citizen services, business efficiency, and governance. It is designed to integrate geospatial data, analytics, and advanced mapping technologies to support multiple sectors.

    Components and Implementation

    In its initial phase, Operation Dronagiri is being implemented in five states—Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra.

    The project brings together government departments, industry partners, corporations, and startups to drive geospatial innovation and ensure efficient utilization of spatial data.

    Integrated Geospatial Data Sharing Interface (GDI)

    A key feature of Operation Dronagiri is the development of an Integrated Geospatial Data Sharing Interface (GDI), which:

    • Facilitates seamless access and sharing of geospatial data across different sectors.
    • Supports applications in urban planning, environmental monitoring, and disaster management.
    • Helps organizations make data-driven decisions for public welfare.

    Impact and Future Expansion

    The initiative is expected to enhance governance, boost economic efficiency, and promote sustainable infrastructure development. By integrating geospatial technologies with public and private sector initiatives, Operation Dronagiri envisions a nationwide rollout under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

    With India’s growing emphasis on geospatial intelligence, the project aims to transform infrastructure planning, improve disaster response, and foster innovation in geospatial applications—paving the way for a data-driven and technologically advanced India.

    Empowering Inclusion and Progress: National Geospatial Policy 2022 in Action

    The National Geospatial Policy 2022 (NGP 2022) underscores the Government of India’s commitment to inclusive development by significantly expanding access to geospatial data and related services. By democratizing location-based data, the policy has enhanced citizen services, improved governance, and extended its benefits to even the most remote areas of the country.

    To implement NGP 2022, the Department of Science and Technology (DST) has strengthened the governance framework to liberalize geospatial data access. Emphasizing the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, DST is fostering self-reliance in geospatial technology by empowering Indian enterprises to generate, utilize, and commercialize their own geospatial data—enhancing their global competitiveness. The policy further encourages the adoption of open standards, open data, and interoperable platforms to enable seamless collaboration across stakeholders.

    To further enhance geospatial infrastructure, the Survey of India (SoI) has launched a pan-India Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) Network, ensuring high-accuracy location data. Additionally, under the SVAMITVA Scheme, SoI has surveyed and mapped over 2.8 lakh villages across Andhra Pradesh, Haryana, and Karnataka using drone technology, streamlining land records and property rights.

    NGP 2022 is fostering a thriving geospatial industry by encouraging private sector participation. Individuals, companies, and government agencies can now process, build applications, and develop solutions using geospatial data. The promotion of open standards, open data, and geospatial platforms has enabled enterprise development and innovation, further solidifying India’s position as a global leader in geospatial technology. To support technological innovation and entrepreneurship, the policy is facilitating the establishment of incubation centers, industry accelerators, and Geospatial Technology Parks. These initiatives are driving research, fostering startups, and strengthening India’s geospatial ecosystem, ultimately positioning the country as a world leader in geospatial innovation.

    With its focus on expanding access, promoting innovation, and leveraging geospatial intelligence, NGP 2022 is not just a policy—it is a transformative tool for national development, economic prosperity, and a thriving digital economy. It is a key driver in realizing the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India), paving the way for a future driven by geospatial intelligence and data-led governance.

    Conclusion

    The National Geospatial Policy 2022 is a significant step towards strengthening India’s geospatial ecosystem. By simplifying data access, promoting innovation, and fostering enterprise development, the policy is creating a robust and dynamic geospatial sector that supports governance, industry, and research.With initiatives like PM Gati Shakti, the National Geospatial Data Repository, and Operation Dronagiri, the policy is driving data-driven decision-making, infrastructure modernization, and digital transformation. As India advances towards Viksit Bharat, geospatial intelligence will be central to planning, connectivity, and national resilience. The National Geospatial Policy 2022 positions India as a global leader in geospatial technology, ensuring that location-based intelligence powers the nation’s progress and prosperity.

    References

    Click here to see PDF:

    Santosh Kumar/ Sheetal Angral/ Vatsla Srivastava

    (Release ID: 2106569) Visitor Counter : 86

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Sarbananda Sonowal unveils ‘One Nation-One Port’ to enhance efficiency with ease of doing business

    Source: Government of India

    Sarbananda Sonowal unveils ‘One Nation-One Port’ to enhance efficiency with ease of doing business

    Sagar Ankalan to enhance port efficiency: Union Minister

    “Bharat Ports Global Consortium to expand India’s maritime reach, strengthen supply chain, and boost Make in India”: Sonowal

    Sonowal launches MAITRI Logo; aims to transform global trade with digital integration through AI and Blockchain for seamless ‘Virtual Trade Corridor

    “India Maritime Week to celebrate ‘Maritime Virasat and Maritime Vikaas’, to be held from 27 – 31, October 2025 in Mumbai”

    Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 5:35PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal launched a series of major initiatives of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) aimed at modernising India’s maritime infrastructure, strengthening its global trade presence, and to promote sustainability. These initiatives were launched during a stakeholder meeting in Mumbai today to discuss on various possibilities from the major announcements made in the Union Budget for the maritime sector.

    Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal launched the ‘One Nation-One Port Process (ONOP)’ an initiative to standardise and streamline operations across India’s major ports. The step aims at removing inconsistencies in documentation and processes that led to inefficiencies, increased costs, and operational delays.

    Shri Sarbananda Sonowal also launched Sagar Ankalan — the Logistics Port Performance Index (LPPI) for FY 2023-24, as a significant step towards enhancing efficiency and global competitiveness in India’s maritime sector.

    Speaking on the occasion, Shri Sonowal said, “It gives me immense pleasure to launch important initiatives of our Ministry which are aligned with Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi ji’s vision of Viksit Bharat, driving self-reliance, sustainability, and economic growth. With the launch of ‘One Nation – One Port’ Process and Sagar Ankalan – LPPI Index, India is taking a decisive step towards standardised, efficient, and globally competitive ports. By enhancing port performance and streamlining logistics, we are reducing inefficiencies, cutting carbon footprints, and strengthening India’s position in global trade. Our commitment to modern, green, and smart port infrastructure will not only fuel economic resilience but also ensure a sustainable maritime future for generations to come. This is a transformative leap towards making India a maritime powerhouse, contributing to Atmanirbhar Bharat and a developed India by 2047.”

    Shri Sarbananda Sonowal also launched Bharat Global Ports Consortium to Strengthen global trade by expanding India’s maritime reach and enhance global trade resilience; and MAITRI logo (Master Application for International Trade and Regulatory Interface) with an aim to streamline trade processes, reduce bureaucratic redundancies and expedite clearances, reinforcing India’s commitment to ease of doing business.

    Adding further, Shri Sonowal said, “The launch of Bharat Ports Global Consortium and MAITRI App marks a transformative step in strengthening India’s maritime and trade ecosystem. These initiatives will sustain the initiatives taken since 2014, under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, to enhance efficiency, streamline trade processes, and bolster global supply chains, reinforcing India’s position as a key player in international logistics. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, India is rapidly modernising its ports and trade infrastructure, aligning with his commitment to Viksit Bharat and Atmanirbhar Bharat. By leveraging digital innovation and global partnerships, we are creating a seamless, efficient, and future-ready trade network, accelerating India’s journey towards becoming a global economic powerhouse.”

    As Ports serve as critical gateways for international and domestic trade, this initiative aims to harmonise port procedures to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and strengthen India’s global trade position. As a first step through ONOP process, the Ministry has standardised documentation with Immigration, the Port Health Organisation, and Port Authorities, reducing container operation documents by 33% (from 143 to 96) and bulk cargo documents by 29% (from 150 to 106). These reforms mark a significant step towards Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, ensuring transparency, consistency, and optimised port management. The Minister called for active stakeholder participation to maximise its impact and drive India’s ports towards operational excellence on the global stage.

    MAITRI plays a crucial role in operationalising the ‘Virtual Trade Corridor’(VTC) between India and the UAE. The initiative aligns with the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) and is expected to expand to BIMSTEC and ASEAN nations, leveraging AI and Blockchain for efficiency and security. By standardising trade documentation and integrating digital solutions, MAITRI will reduce processing time, optimise trade flows, and contribute to sustainable development. MAITRI is set to redefine international trade, positioning India as a leader in global logistics and trade facilitation.

    Aligned with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan and the National Logistics Policy, Sagar Ankalan LPPI aims to benchmark port performance, drive operational excellence, and strengthen India’s trade connectivity. Developed under the Sagar Aankalan guidelines, the LPPI evaluates all major and non-major ports under Bulk (Dry & Liquid) and Container categories. Key performance indicators include cargo handling, turnaround time, berth idle time, container dwell time, and ship berth-day output. The structured, data-driven methodology ensures transparency by equally weighing absolute performance and year-on-year improvement. By fostering a culture of efficiency and innovation, LPPI will drive India’s ports toward global standards, reinforcing the nation’s position as a maritime leader and a critical player in international trade. India has already made remarkable progress in global logistics, climbing to 22nd place in the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index (LPI) 2023 for “International Shipments,” up from 44th.

    By developing robust port infrastructure, the Bharat Global Ports Consortium initiative will streamline logistics, strengthen supply chains, and support the ‘Make in India’ initiative by boosting exports. Bringing together IPGL (operations), SDCL (finance), and IPRCL (infrastructure development), the consortium will drive port expansion, operations, and financing to position India as a key player in international trade and logistics. By focusing on efficiency, innovation, and global collaboration, the consortium aims to improve trade connectivity and enhance India’s economic footprint. This initiative underscores India’s commitment to maritime excellence and economic resilience on the global stage, maintained Shri Sarbananda Sonowal during its launch.

    The Union Minister also announced the India Maritime Week to be held from 27th to 31st of October, 2025 in Mumbai with a view to celebrate country’s ‘Maritime Virasat’ and ‘Maritime Vikaas’ — a bi-annual global maritime gathering that will be one of the largest in the world. The week will host 4th edition of Global Maritime India Summit (GMIS), 2nd edition of Sagarmanthan among others. At the India Maritime Week, ‘representation from 100 countries and 100,000 delegates are expected to participate’, Sonowal said. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, in partnership with the Observer Research Foundation, launched the ‘Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue’ as an annual dialogue to center-stage India as the global venue for all strategic maritime conversations.

    The Maritime Stakeholders Meet focused on revitalising India’s shipbuilding sector in light of recent budgetary announcements. Key discussions centered on increased financial assistance for Indian shipyards, the Ship Breaking Credit Note Scheme and its impact, along with capital infusion to develop new shipbuilding clusters, aiming to boost domestic manufacturing and global competitiveness. The Maritime Development Fund, the inclusion of large ships in the Infrastructure Harmonised Master List (HML), and the role of financial institutions and multilateral agencies in facilitating low-cost term financing were key focus areas. These measures aim to strengthen India’s maritime sector by enhancing financial accessibility, boosting shipbuilding, and improving industry competitiveness.

    On the budgetary announcements for maritime sector, the Union Minister said, “Under the visionary leadership of our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji, India is sailing towards a Viksit Bharat, ensuring that our ports, shipping, and waterways become the backbone of a thriving economy. The Union Budget 2025 has put the maritime sector at the forefront of India’s growth story. The ₹25,000 crore Maritime Development Fund is a game-changer. It will provide long-term financing, encourage private investment, and modernize our port and shipping infrastructure. The recognition of LARGE ships as infrastructure will unlock new avenues for financing, making it easier for businesses to invest in shipbuilding and coastal trade. And let’s not forget the revamped Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy (SBFAP 2.0)—this will level the playing field for our shipyards, helping them compete with global giants. The shipbuilding clusters—a vision we are actively pursuing — will not only make India a hub for ship construction but will also create thousands of jobs, bring in new technologies, and strengthen our global competitiveness. To further boost this industry, we have extended customs duty exemptions on shipbuilding inputs for another 10 years. In order to propel our rich riverine network, the extension of the tonnage tax regime to inland vessels is a major step in making river transport more attractive and viable for businesses. With the collaborative approach, we can revolutionize logistics, reduce freight costs, and create an eco-friendly alternative to road and rail transport.”

    The Union Minister also launched the National Centre of Excellence in Green Port and Shipping (NCoEGPS) website. It is a significant milestone in advancing sustainability in the maritime sector. This platform will offer insights and best practices for green port and shipping operations, focusing on carbon footprint reduction, cleaner fuels, and eco-friendly port management to drive a more sustainable future.

    In his concluding remarks, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “India’s Blue Economy is not just about ships and ports—it’s about jobs, trade, sustainability, and economic growth. There is immense potential, and we are committed to ensuring that you have the right policies, the right financing, and the right environment to thrive. We are not just aiming to be a top 10 shipbuilding nation by 2030—we are aiming to create an ecosystem that is world-class, efficient, and future-ready. Let’s capitalise this opportunity. Let’s build, innovate, and collaborate. Together, we are not just shaping India’s maritime future—we are shaping India’s economic destiny.”

    ***

    G.D. Hallikeri / Henry / Shweta

    (Release ID: 2106662) Visitor Counter : 86

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: InvestHK collaborates with Wuhan ETO to promote Hong Kong’s advantages as global supply chain management hub and its role as double gateway to Hubei Province (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    InvestHK collaborates with Wuhan ETO to promote Hong Kong’s advantages as global supply chain management hub and its role as double gateway to Hubei Province (with photos)
    InvestHK collaborates with Wuhan ETO to promote Hong Kong’s advantages as global supply chain management hub and its role as double gateway to Hubei Province (with photos)
    ******************************************************************************************

         ​The Director-General of Investment Promotion (DGIP) at Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK), Ms Alpha Lau, has embarked on her first official visit to Wuhan, Hubei Province, from February 26 to 28. During the visit, she is promoting Hong Kong’s unique advantages and its role as a global supply chain management hub with local government authorities, enterprises and major development zones.          On the first day of her visit to Wuhan, Ms Lau attended and spoke at a seminar themed “Hubei-Hong Kong Collaboration: Connecting the World for a Shared Future”, which was jointly organised by InvestHK; the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, Hubei Sub-Council; the Department of Commerce of Hubei Province; the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Wuhan (WHETO); and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC). The seminar commenced with welcome remarks by Ms Lau, followed by remarks from the Director of the WHETO, Miss Alice Choi; Deputy Director of the Department of Commerce of Hubei Province Ms Li Xiaoyan; and Deputy Director of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, Hubei Sub-Council Mr Shi Minghui.          This marks Ms Lau’s first visit as DGIP at InvestHK to Wuhan, Hubei Province. She looks forward to leveraging the economic and trade advantages between Hubei and Hong Kong to help enterprises seize opportunities in Hong Kong for growth and advancement. Ms Lau said, “Hong Kong is the largest foreign direct investment source for Hubei Province as well as its major business and trade partner. Enterprises from Hubei are also actively going global through Hong Kong. More and more Hubei enterprises are using Hong Kong as a gateway to extend their industrial and supply chains overseas, reaching new markets worldwide.” She shared with corporate guests and said, “The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government aims to build a high-value-added supply chain service centre to serve both domestic and international enterprises. Hong Kong possesses robust professional service capabilities. In addition, Hong Kong offers comprehensive support for Hubei enterprises in their global expansion, particularly in legal, finance and talent.” She also took the opportunity to meet with local media and elaborate on the latest business advantages of Hong Kong.          Miss Choi said, “This seminar has established a communication platform for Hubei and Hong Kong in the field of supply chain management, marking another achievement under the Hubei/Hong Kong Co-operation Mechanism. We hope this event will serve as an opportunity for enterprises from both regions to join hands in exploring the global market. The WHETO will continue to act as a bridge for communication between Hong Kong and Hubei, promoting comprehensive co-operation between the two places.”          Mr Shi and Ms Li, representing Hubei government authorities, expressed that they will actively promote and continuously deepen economic, trade, investment, and co-operative exchanges between Hubei and Hong Kong. This will enable enterprises from both regions to fully leverage and utilise their respective advantages for further development and upgrading. Ms Li stated, “Hubei is accelerating the improvement of mechanisms to facilitate the dual circulation of domestic and international markets, advancing high-level opening-up to the outside world. Hong Kong’s significant advantages in multiple fields create an excellent environment for Hubei-Hong Kong co-operation.” Mr Shi added that in the coming year, efforts will focus on strengthening collaborative innovation in technology, deepening economic and trade co-operation, and enhancing complementary strengths, seeking approaches to achieve win-win opportunities between Hubei and Hong Kong.          The Head of Transport & Logistics and Industrials at InvestHK, Mr Benjamin Wong, delivered a keynote presentation on Hong Kong’s business advantages, encouraging Hubei enterprises to establish their global supply chain management centres in Hong Kong. He also introduced the services that InvestHK provides to assist Mainland enterprises.          In the second half of the seminar, the Head of Business and Talent Attraction/Investment Promotion of the WHETO, Mr Zhou Yikai, hosted a panel discussion. Participants included the Director, Central China from the HKTDC, Ms Christie Wu; Honorary Secretary of the Hongkong Association of Freight Forwarding and Logistics Ltd, Mr Alex Koo; the Head of Cargo Chinese Mainland of Cathay Pacific Airways, Ms Wendy Ge; the General Manager of the BEA (China), Wuhan Branch, Mr Winson Lee; and Assistant to the Chairman of the Wuhan Changjiang International Trade Group Co Ltd and the Chairman of the Wuhan Changjiang Trading Company Co Ltd, Mr Bian Dakui. The discussion focused on how Hubei enterprises can fully utilise Hong Kong’s platform for global supply chain management. This seminar attracted nearly 200 representatives from local enterprises, institutions, and media in Hubei Province.          During the visit, Ms Lau met with the Director-General of Department of Commerce of Hubei Province, Ms Long Xiaohong, to exchange views on jointly supporting Hubei enterprises in fully utilising Hong Kong’s platform to expand into international markets. Ms Lau expressed hope that through InvestHK’s promotion, Hubei enterprises could gain a deeper understanding of Hong Kong’s unique advantages and opportunities under the “one country, two systems” framework. As a gateway connecting the Mainland with the world, Hong Kong helps Mainland businesses expand globally while also attracting foreign investment. Ms Long welcomed the suggestion and looked forward to continuously deepening exchanges and co-operation between the two places and the two departments.          Ms Lau visited the Wuhan Economic and Technological Development Zone and the Wuhan East Lake High-Tech Development Zone, where she exchanged talks with relevant officials today and tomorrow (February 27 and 28). The delegation of InvestHK visited the “Dual Intelligence” Exhibition Hall of the Wuhan National New Energy and Intelligent Connected Vehicle Demonstration Zone. After that, Member of the Standing Committee of the Wuhan Municipal Party Committee and Secretary of the Party Working Committee of Wuhan Economic and Technological Development Zone Mr Liu Ziqing, and the Director of the Development Zone Administrative Committee, Mr Tang Chao, held talks with Ms Lau. They exchanged views on assisting advanced manufacturing enterprises in leveraging Hong Kong to optimise their multinational supply chain management and expressed their commitment to deepening communication and co-operation.          During the visit to the development zones, Ms Lau visited leading enterprises from key industries, including advanced manufacturing, digital publishing, and high-tech sectors such as life sciences, low-altitude economy, and intelligent connected vehicles. She discussed with company representatives to understand and explore their plans for establishing or expanding operations in Hong Kong. “The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is committed to promoting innovation and technology development. With a thriving innovation and technology ecosystem and abundant opportunities, Hong Kong provides an ideal environment for Mainland advanced manufacturing and high-tech enterprises looking to expand globally. We encourage Hubei enterprises to leverage Hong Kong’s new opportunities to establish their research and development centres, computing power hubs, and global management hubs,” Ms Lau said.

     
    Ends/Thursday, February 27, 2025Issued at HKT 14:25

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Piyush Goyal attends Valedictory Session of Advantage Assam 2.0

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Minister Piyush Goyal attends Valedictory Session of Advantage Assam 2.0
    Shri Piyush Goyal Lauds Assam’s Visionary Leadership; Highlights Future Growth Prospects

    Posted On: 26 FEB 2025 8:13PM by PIB Guwahati

    Shri Piyush Goyal, Hon’ble Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, attended the session ‘The Future of Export Logistics in Assam’ and delivered the valedictory session at Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit at Guwahati today. The event marked a significant step toward strengthening Assam’s position as a key player in India’s export logistics and trade sector.

    The Union Minister spoke about the various infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing tourism while ensuring ecological balance. He emphasized the importance of sustainable, high-value tourism, which would contribute significantly to Assam’s economy without compromising its natural beauty. He also acknowledged the state’s tea industry, specifically highlighting the “Jhumoir” initiative, attended by Prime Minister Modi, in Guwahati recently.

    The Union Minister also recognized Assam’s growing role in the technology sector, with significant developments like Tata’s semiconductor industry and Reliance Industries’ AI ventures slated to make a significant impact on the region’s economy. Shri Goyal emphasised the role of the 3 Ts (Trade, Technology, Tourism) and 3 Is (Industry, Infrastructure, Investment) in pushing the future development of Assam

    Addressing the state’s growing educational sector, Shri Goyal underscored the establishment of 18 new medical colleges and the introduction of foreign language programs in universities to equip local students for global opportunities. He praised the government’s efforts to foster innovation and research and development, which he assured would benefit Assam as part of Prime Minister Modi’s vision for Viksit Bharat.

    Concluding his address, Shri Goyal expressed his belief that Assam, with its rich resources, strong leadership, and commitment to development, is a “dependable and progressing” state. He thanked the Chief Minister of Assam, the organizers, and all stakeholders for their role in making the Advantage Assam 2.0 Summit a resounding success and reiterated the Government of India’s commitment to Assam’s continued growth and prosperity. He praised the visionary leadership of Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma describing him as a “man with a heart of gold,”. He emphasized his dedication and relentless efforts for the welfare of the people of Assam which aligned perfectly with Prime Minister Modi’s vision for the nation’s progress.

    The Union Minister also unveiled the souvenir of the Summit titled “Celebrating Assam’s Investment Growth Story” which captures the spirit of Assam’s revolutionary investor-friendly ecosystem and entrepreneurial spirit.

    In his keynote address, Chief Minister of Assam, Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, outlined the state’s strategic vision for economic growth, emphasizing the government’s commitment to fostering a vibrant business environment and attracting sustainable investments. He highlighted the key initiatives that are driving Assam’s transformation into a major economic hub in the region.

    Representatives and heads of various prominent institutions, including the Asian Development Bank, World Bank, New Development Bank, International Finance Corporation, NRL, Tata Electronics, FICCI, PepsiCo India and South Asia and Century Ply expressed their strong commitment in investing in Assam during the Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment Summit. Their insightful addresses highlighted the potential of the state and the growing confidence in Assam’s economic growth and development.

    The valedictory session brought together key policymakers, industry leaders and international financial institutions to discuss transformative strategies for Assam’s economic ecosystem further commemorating the state’s journey toward becoming a major trade and investment hub.

    *******

    PG/SM

    (Release ID: 2106494) Visitor Counter : 95

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI: Wojciech Podobas Increases Stake in Thinca Co., Ltd. (TSE: 149A) to 6.00% Following Tokyo Visit

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Feb. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Thinca Co., Ltd. (TSE: 149A), the developer and provider of the communication platform Kaikura, is pleased to announce that Voytek Podobas (Wojciech Jakub Podobas), founder of Podobas Global Investments, a major shareholder holding over 5% of the company’s shares, visited Thinca’s Tokyo headquarters. During his visit, he met with CEO Takahiro Ejiri and CFO Yusuke Ishikawa.

    Mr. Podobas, a seasoned global investor known for his strategic investments in high-growth companies, has been actively supporting Japan’s emerging software sector. Through this visit, he gained deeper insight into Thinca Co., Ltd. (TSE: 149A)‘s vision and strategy, reinforcing his confidence in the company’s long-term growth potential. Following the visit, Mr. Podobas increased his stake, raising his ownership to 6.00%.

    As a publicly traded company on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, Thinca Co., Ltd. (TSE: 149A) continues to attract strategic investors who recognize the value of its expanding business model. Thinca expresses its deep gratitude for Mr. Podobas’s continued support and remains committed to strengthening its market leadership. His growing involvement reflects a strong endorsement of Thinca’s innovation-driven approach and global potential.

    Voytek Podobas  commented on his visit: “Currently, I am involved in approximately ten investment projects, many of which focus on Japan’s software sector. After evaluating every software-related company listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, Thinca’s business stands out, and I highly appreciate its future growth potential. I find many similarities between Thinca and a highly successful Swedish SaaS company I previously invested in.”

    “I am confident that Thinca’s Kaikura service has immense potential to reshape Japan’s business communication landscape. By seamlessly integrating multiple communication tools, it enhances efficiency while respecting Japan’s business culture. Furthermore, the company’s innovative use of AI-driven features makes it a standout player in Japan’s rapidly evolving SaaS industry.”

    “This visit allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of Thinca’s vision, reaffirming my investment decision. I am particularly impressed by the professionalism and innovative mindset of the Thinca team. Their pursuit of excellence aligns with Japan’s Kaizen philosophy of continuous improvement. I am excited to support Thinca’s next phase of growth.”

    About Kaikura
    Kaikura is a next-generation communication platform that centralizes interactions across various channels, including phone calls, emails, web conferences, and SMS. Since its launch in August 2014, Kaikura has been adopted by over 2,700 companies across more than 5,200 locations. The platform has received multiple industry awards, including recognition as the “2023 Winter Leader” in the CTI category of the ITreview Grid Award and the “Most Customizable” SaaS in the Call Center System category of the BOXIL SaaS AWARD Winter 2023.

    For more information, users can visit the official Kaikura website: https://kaiwa.cloud/

    Japan’s software market is currently undergoing rapid transformation, with Thinca Co., Ltd. at the forefront of this digital evolution. As businesses across Japan accelerate their digitalization efforts, Kaikura is leading the way with cutting-edge AI-powered features designed to optimize workflows, enhance customer interactions, and automate communication management. The company has recently introduced advanced AI-driven call analysis, automated transcription, and real-time sentiment tracking, further solidifying Kaikura’s position as a game-changing SaaS solution. As Voytek Podobas and other global investors continue to recognize Thinca’s potential, the company remains committed to driving innovation in Japan’s enterprise software industry.

    Contact

    Caesar Tabota
    CPaper Media LLC
    office@podobas.global

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9071bea6-ba77-44a9-891e-9203d49df4b5

    The MIL Network

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

    Source: European Central Bank

    27 February 2025

    Components of the broad monetary aggregate M3

    The annual growth rate of the broad monetary aggregate M3 increased to 3.6% in January 2025 from 3.4% in December, averaging 3.6% in the three months up to January. The components of M3 showed the following developments. The annual growth rate of the narrower aggregate M1, which comprises currency in circulation and overnight deposits, increased to 2.7% in January from 1.8% in December. The annual growth rate of short-term deposits other than overnight deposits (M2-M1) decreased to 3.3% in January from 4.4% in December. The annual growth rate of marketable instruments (M3-M2) decreased to 14.7% in January from 15.8% in December.

    Chart 1

    Monetary aggregates

    (annual growth rates)

    Data for monetary aggregates

    Looking at the components’ contributions to the annual growth rate of M3, the narrower aggregate M1 contributed 1.7 percentage points (up from 1.2 percentage points in December), short-term deposits other than overnight deposits (M2-M1) contributed 1.0 percentage points (down from 1.3 percentage points) and marketable instruments (M3-M2) contributed 0.9 percentage points (down from 1.0 percentage points).

    Among the holding sectors of deposits in M3, the annual growth rate of deposits placed by households decreased to 3.3% in January from 3.5% in December, while the annual growth rate of deposits placed by non-financial corporations increased to 3.1% in January from 2.8% in December. Finally, the annual growth rate of deposits placed by investment funds other than money market funds decreased to 4.5% in January from 7.4% in December.

    Counterparts of the broad monetary aggregate M3

    The annual growth rate of M3 in January 2025, as a reflection of changes in the items on the monetary financial institution (MFI) consolidated balance sheet other than M3 (counterparts of M3), can be broken down as follows: net external assets contributed 2.9 percentage points (down from 3.5 percentage points in December), claims on the private sector contributed 1.9 percentage points (up from 1.7 percentage points), claims on general government contributed 0.1 percentage points (up from -0.4 percentage points), longer-term liabilities contributed -1.5 percentage points (up from -1.8 percentage points), and the remaining counterparts of M3 contributed 0.2 percentage points (down from 0.4 percentage points).

    Chart 2

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

    (percentage points)

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

    Claims on euro area residents

    The annual growth rate of total claims on euro area residents increased to 1.5% in January 2025 from 0.9% in the previous month. The annual growth rate of claims on general government increased to 0.3% in January from -1.0% in December, while the annual growth rate of claims on the private sector increased to 2.0% in January from 1.7% in December.

    The annual growth rate of adjusted loans to the private sector (i.e. adjusted for loan transfers and notional cash pooling) increased to 2.3% in January from 2.0% in December. Among the borrowing sectors, the annual growth rate of adjusted loans to households increased to 1.3% in January from 1.1% in December, while the annual growth rate of adjusted loans to non-financial corporations increased to 2.0% in January from 1.7% in December.

    Chart 3

    Adjusted loans to the private sector

    (annual growth rates)

    Data for adjusted loans to the private sector

    Notes:

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

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Use of Paragon Solutions spyware against journalists and civil society representatives – E-000600/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000600/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Pina Picierno (S&D), Giorgio Gori (S&D), Camilla Laureti (S&D), Estelle Ceulemans (S&D), Alessandra Moretti (S&D), Marc Angel (S&D), Birgit Sippel (S&D), Elisabetta Gualmini (S&D), Irene Tinagli (S&D), Kristian Vigenin (S&D), Brando Benifei (S&D), Alex Agius Saliba (S&D), Matjaž Nemec (S&D), Alessandro Zan (S&D), Maria Grapini (S&D)

    Several newspapers[1][2][3] revealed on 31 January 2025 that WhatsApp had informed more than 100 journalists and civil society representatives worldwide that they had been attacked by spyware developed by the Israeli company Paragon Solutions. Also among the victims is Francesco Cancellato, director of the online newspaper Fanpage.it.

    This attack allowed hackers to illegally gain full access to victims’ devices, collecting sensitive data and intercepting private communications on the encrypted platform.

    In the light of these events, can the Commission answer the following questions:

    • 1.What measures will the Commission take to launch an investigation to ascertain the extent of this violation?
    • 2.Will it launch an investigation to ascertain who is responsible and take action against the perpetrators?
    • 3.What measures will it take to protect press freedom and journalists from such cyber attacks given the violations of Directive 2009/136/EC, Directive (EU) 2018/1972, Regulation (EU) 2024/1083, Regulation (EU) 2016/679 and Directive 2013/40/EU?

    Submitted: 10.2.2025

    • [1] https://www.fanpage.it/attualita/giornalisti-presi-di-mira-dallo-spyware-israeliano-paragon-spiato-anche-il-direttore-di-fanpage-it/.
    • [2] https://www.ilsole24ore.com/art/spiato-software-militare-israeliano-fondatore-ong-mediterranea-AGim5PjC?refresh_ce&nof.
    • [3] https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2025/jan/31/italian-journalist-whatsapp-israeli-spyware.
    Last updated: 27 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EIB Global Invests $75 million in Helios Fund V to Support Africa’s digitally focused businesses

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • Helios Fund V will focus primarily on companies in digital infrastructure, financial services and technology, and tech-enabled service sectors including education, training and healthcare, which are aligned with the priorities of the EU-Africa Global Gateway Investment Package.
    • The fund has committed to working to invest at least 30% of the portfolio in companies that meet EIB gender equality criteria.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB Global) has announced a $75 million investment in Helios Investors V, L.P. (Helios Fund V). The announcement was made by EIB Vice-President Ambroise Fayolle at the ongoing Finance in Common Summit in Cape Town, South Africa.

    The fund manager, Helios Investment Partners, is the world’s largest Africa-focused private investment firm. Helios Fund V will focus on companies in sectors like digital infrastructure, financial services and technology, and tech-enabled business services, in alignment with the EU-Africa Global Gateway Investment Package priorities.

    The fund will support the growth of companies that help provide digital infrastructure like data centres, fibre-optic networks and telecom towers; tech-enabled business services like cloud services, health tech and logistics tech; and financial services and technology like bank tech payments or financial management software: It will also support companies that help provide healthcare or education and training.

    The investment by EIB Global in Helios Fund V is part of the EIB’s contribution to the Team Europe approach. The Bank is working alongside other European development finance institutions (DFIs) that are expected to invest, enabling the fund to support the growth plans of emerging African businesses.

    Helios has committed to the objective of devoting at least 30% of the fund’s portfolio to companies that meet the EIB’s gender equality criteria. It joined the 2X Global network in January 2024. Support for businesses under this theme can include gender-smart initiatives, coaching and mentoring, capacity building and encouraging women into senior positions.

    EIB Vice-President Ambroise Fayolle said, “We are happy to be partnering with Helios – an important pan-African equity firm that has been operating in Africa for over two decades, with good access to investment opportunities, and a strong network and local footprint. We look forward to supporting them as they invest in market-leading, value-creating and socially responsible enterprises for the mutual benefit of Africa and the European Union. This is fully aligned with the Global Gateway priorities being implemented by Team Europe.”

    David Masondo, Deputy Minister of Finance in South Africa and Chair of the Public Investment Commission, attended the signing. He remarked, “Private capital fuels growth, and EIB Global’s investment in Helios V showcases innovative financing to unlock Africa’s potential. South Africa welcomes this funding, which strengthens business collaboration and mobilises capital for high-impact sectors. It aligns with our commitment to enhancing capital markets, digital technologies and financial infrastructure for inclusive growth. Such partnerships drive investment, industrial growth, jobs and resilience. I hope the fund leverages this investment to accelerate development and ensure lasting prosperity.”

    Private capital is a powerful driver of economic development in Africa. Through investment in local enterprises, private equity firms like Helios play a catalytic role, bringing external funding as well as knowledge and technical expertise to the companies they invest in.

    Last year EIB Global invested €232 million in funds operating across Africa – representing 49% of total fund investments by the Bank, showing the increased focus on spurring private capital flows on the continent.

    Background information

    About the European Investment Bank

    The EIB is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by the Member States. It finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives.

    EIB Global is the EIB Group’s specialised arm devoted to increasing the impact of international partnerships and development finance, and a key partner in Global Gateway. It aims to support €100 billion of investment by the end of 2027, around one-third of the overall target of this EU initiative. With Team Europe, EIB Global fosters strong, focused partnerships, alongside fellow development finance institutions and civil society. EIB Global brings the Group closer to people, companies and institutions through its offices around the world.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Reverse combustion

    Source: European Investment Bank

    What if carbon dioxide could itself be turned into a fuel? Such a neat solution for the waste gas that’s causing climate change may be just round the corner, because German start-up INERATEC has developed a chemical process to do just that.

    “We’re reversing the combustion process,” explains Tim Boeltken, INERATEC’s chief executive. “The chemical process we’ve created takes the greenhouse gas CO2 that nobody wants and combines it with green hydrogen to create a synthetic hydrocarbon fuel.”

    INERATEC’s method could reduce emissions in a number of sectors that have few clean alternatives, including aviation, which accounts for a growing share of global greenhouse gas emissions. The company already has clients in the aviation, shipping and chemicals industries, but to demonstrate its technology at a larger scale, it is building a facility near Frankfurt airport with the backing of a €40 million venture debt loan from the European Investment Bank. The deal is supported by the European Union’s InvestEU programme and includes a €30 million grant from Breakthrough Energy Catalyst, a financing platform for climate innovation founded by Bill Gates.

    “The aviation industry is struggling to decarbonize,” says Stephan Mitrakas, a senior loan officer who worked on the deal at the European Investment Bank. “Alternatives to jet fuel, such as electricity and hydrogen, both have major drawbacks and would require the development of a completely new infrastructure set up for transport, storage and fueling.”

    “The beauty of synthetic fuels is that you can keep the infrastructure we already have,” Mitrakas adds. “You can take the synthetic fuel from INERATEC, mix it in with the kerosene that planes currently use, and the aeroplane will work. INERATEC is the most promising start-up in the field right now, certainly in Europe and probably in the world.”

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Kenya Upgrades East Africa’s busiest trade and transport route from Kwa Jomvu to Mariakani Under Global Gateway Initiative

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • Key road upgrade will predominantly increase two lane carriageway to four and six lane dual carriageway.
    • The project will contribute to improving road safety, reducing emissions and boosting regional trade.
    • The EUR 140 million (Ksh 19 billion) project is receiving Team Europe support with a €50 million (Ksh 6.8 billion) loan from EIB Global, a €50 million (Ksh 6.8 billion) loan from KfW, a €20 million (Ksh 2.7 billion) grant from the EU, and approximately €20 million (Ksh 2.7 billion) from the Government of Kenya.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB Global), the Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Kenya and the German Development Bank (KfW) on behalf of the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), together with President William Ruto, launched the works for upgrading of the road section from Kwa-Jomvu to Mariakani, in the Southeast of Kenya. The works involve converting the predominantly two-lane road to a four and six lane dual carriageway.

    Within the Mombasa – Mariakani area, the road forms the main axis to Nairobi, and is part of the Northern Corridor, which links the port of Mombasa with the landlocked Eastern and Central African countries of Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan and Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

    The road rehabilitation and upgrade are part of the Global Gateway EU – Africa Strategy. In a Team Europe approach, EIB Global and KFW are supporting the project with concessional loans of up to €100 million (Ksh 13.6 billion), while EU is providing a grant of €20 million (Ksh 2.7 billion). The Kenyan Government is contributing with approximately €20 million (Kshs 2.7 billion).

    Upon completion, the upgraded road will benefit an average of 20,000 vehicles per day travelling through Mariakani. Moreover, the enhancement of the road will contribute to reducing emissions and the number of road accidents.

    Speaking during the launch ceremony in Mariakani, President William Ruto said: “I would like to thank our Team Europe partners for their support in developing as well as expanding this road infrastructure which will ease movement of goods to and from the port, thus increasing efficiency.”

    The EU Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jozef Sikela said:” This Global Gateway project is a great example of quality infrastructure made possible by the cooperation between the Kenyan government and the European union. Together, we are not just building infrastructure, we are accelerating Kenya’s economic development and supporting trade co-operation in the East African Community more broadly.”

    European Investment Bank Vice President, Thomas Östros commented on the launch: “Sustainable transport is key to growth and inclusion as it connects people and enables trade. Projects such as this one brings together important aspects of sustainability and safety, as well as accessibility, resilience, and efficiency. Road transport plays an important role in the Kenyan economy, affecting all sectors – and society as a whole. At the EIB, we are glad to support the national government in realizing its development agenda, which is in line with the EU-Kenya partnership strategy and the Global Gateway initiative.”

    The Director of the German Development Bank (KfW) in Nairobi, Kristina Laarmann highlighted: “We all know that the Mombasa port serves as a major gateway for East Africa by connecting Kenya to significant trade routes in East and Central Africa. This is why this project is so important. It will not only create jobs during the construction phase. It will also stimulate job opportunities and local businesses after completion. By widening the carriageways, traffic jams and the average time to pass the road section will be reduced. Ultimately, this shall also lead to a reduction in transport costs and savings in vehicle operating costs.”

    The Kwa  Jomvu – Mariakani project is part of the wider upgrading of the Northern Corridor, which is East Africa’s busiest trade and transport route. This is part of the EU Global Gateway transport investment that also includes the ongoing Mombasa – Kilifi Road and Kitale – Morpus road, while the upgrading of Isebania-Kisii-Ahero highway and associated feeder roads have been completed.

    The road project feeds into the European Union’s wider support for the creation of twelve strategic transport corridors across Africa under the €150 billion Global Gateway EU-Africa Investment package to boost trade.

    Background information

    About EIB Global:

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. It finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives.

    EIB Global is the EIB Group’s specialised arm devoted to increasing the impact of international partnerships and development finance, and a key partner in Global Gateway. We aim to support €100 billion of investment by the end of 2027, around one third of the overall target of this EU initiative. With Team Europe, EIB Global fosters strong, focused partnerships, alongside fellow development finance institutions and civil society. EIB Global brings the Group closer to people, companies and institutions through our offices around the world.

    About KfW:

    KfW Bankengruppe, founded in 1948, is the German promotional bank and one of the world’s leading promotional banks. It is 80% owned by the Federal Government and 20% by the federal states. The business sector KfW Development Bank carries out Financial Cooperation (FC) projects with developing countries and emerging economies on behalf of the German Federal Government, especially of the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). KfW Development Bank employs approximately 1,200 people at the head office in Frankfurt am Main as well as 400 specialists at more than 60 international locations, who cooperate with partners all over the world. Their goal is to combat poverty, secure peace, protect the environment and the climate as well as ensure fair globalization. KfW Development Bank is a competent and strategic adviser for current development policy issues.

    About EU:

    The European Union has set out the Global Gateway, which is a new European Strategy that helps its partners build better connectivity infrastructure for any society. With this strategy the EU is creating sustainable and trusted connections for people and the planet to tackle the most pressing global challenges  from climate change and protecting the environment, to improving health security and boosting competitiveness and global supply chains.

    In Kenya, the European Union has cooperated in the transport sector for more than 30 years. This has delivered significant improvements for the Northern and Ethiopia/South Sudan corridors as well as improvements in Rural and Urban Roads. More than €550 million have been provided as EU grants, which have enabled and strengthened the trade flows between Kenya and its neighbours.

    For More Information:

    EU-Africa: Global Gateway Investment Package

    EU-Africa: Global Gateway Investment Package – Strategic Corridors

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Ukraine: Renovated hospital and preschool open in Lviv Oblast with EU bank support

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • Lviv’s St Luke’s Hospital has been upgraded to provide better medical care and a more resilient environment for patients, visitors and healthcare workers amid wartime challenges.
    • Preschool No.7 in Truskavets has been renovated to improve energy efficiency to provide a stable learning space for children and educators, including those displaced by the war.
    • These projects are part of the Ukraine Early Recovery Programme, aimed at rebuilding essential social infrastructure in Ukrainian communities.

    As Ukraine marks three years of Russia’s full-scale war, the European Union continues to support the reconstruction of the country’s vital infrastructure. Two public buildings in Lviv Oblast – St Luke’s Hospital in Lviv and preschool No.7 “Dzvinochok” in Truskavets – have officially opened after renovations. Supported by the European Union and its financial arm, the European Investment Bank (EIB), these projects are part of the broader Ukraine Early Recovery Programme that funds the restoration of essential social infrastructure, including schools, hospitals, water and heating systems and social housing. As war-affected communities continue to face immense challenges, these investments help ensure access to critical services and create more resilient spaces.

    Lviv’s St Luke’s Hospital, a key emergency and specialised care centre, has undergone a €940 000 renovation to improve services for its 50 000 annual patients. Home to western Ukraine’s largest burn unit, it plays a crucial role in treating severe injuries. The upgrades, in particular facade insulation and energy efficiency improvements, enhance the hospital’s resilience while creating a more comfortable space for patients, including internally displaced persons.

    A €330 000 renovation of preschool No.7 “Dzvinochok” in Truskavets, Lviv Oblast, has created a more energy-efficient and welcoming learning space for pupils including for children displaced by the war and for staff. The project significantly increased the appeal of the building, while increasing its energy efficiency and reducing energy costs. With improved insulation the preschool is now more resilient and sustainable.

    In Lviv Oblast, two facilities have already been renovated and six are undergoing reconstruction under the EIB recovery programmes, with a total investment of over €15 million. This includes six educational institutions and two medical facilities, improving access to education and healthcare in the region. 

    EIB Vice-President Teresa Czerwińska, who is responsible for the Bank’s operations in Ukraine, said: “From day one of Russia’s full-scale war and throughout these three difficult years, the EIB has stood by Ukraine, providing vital support to help the country withstand, recover and rebuild. The reopening of renovated hospital and school in Lviv Oblast is a testament to this ongoing effort, bringing tangible improvements to people’s daily lives.”

    EU Ambassador to Ukraine Katarína Mathernová said: “Every rebuilt hospital, school, and kindergarten sends a clear message: the EU stands firmly with Ukraine. Together with the EIB, we are not only helping to repair what has been damaged but also laying the foundations for a stronger, safer Ukraine that is ready to thrive as part of the EU.”

    Deputy Prime Minister for Restoration of Ukraine – Minister for Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine Oleksii Kuleba said: “Together with the EIB, EU Delegation and UNDP, we are modernising outdated and war-damaged infrastructure across Ukraine. Millions of Ukrainians already benefit from renovated schools, hospitals and kindergartens. We have recently launched the first phase of the Ukraine Recovery III programme, paving the way for additional impactful initiatives that will enhance communities and improve the lives of Ukrainians thanks to the EU support.”

    Minister of Finance of Ukraine Sergii Marchenko said: “Rebuilding Ukraine’s infrastructure is crucial for strengthening resilience and improving living conditions for our people. With the support of the EU, we are delivering critical projects that enhance healthcare, education and public services. The three EIB-backed recovery programmes, worth €640 million, play a key role in this effort, helping communities rebuild and move forward despite ongoing challenges.”

    Head of the Lviv Oblast Military Administration Maksym Kozytskyi said: “The EU bank’s investment in Lviv Oblast is strengthening our region’s infrastructure at a critical time. With many communities hosting large numbers of displaced people, improving healthcare, education and essential services is more important than ever. These projects help ensure that our cities and towns remain functional, resilient and able to meet the needs of all who live here.”

    Mayor of Lviv Andriy Sadovyi said: “Restoring and strengthening our city’s infrastructure is essential to supporting both our residents and those who have found refuge here due to the war. With the support of the EU, we are rebuilding vital facilities to ensure Lviv remains a city of resilience, opportunity and hope. Today, we inaugurated a renovated hospital, with many other projects underway to improve daily life and build a stronger future for our community.”

    Mayor of Truskavets Andriy Kulchynsky said: “We are grateful to the EU for this investment in our community. The renovation of Preschool No.7 creates a warm, modern and energy-efficient space where our children can learn and grow.”

    UNDP Resident Representative to Ukraine Jaco Cilliers said: “Behind every rebuilt hospital and renovated school, we see renewed hope for Ukrainian families and communities. UNDP’s partnership with local authorities isn’t just about infrastructure – it’s about restoring essential services that affect people’s daily lives. Working alongside the EU and EIB, we’re helping transform technical recovery projects into tangible improvements for children seeking education, patients needing care and citizens rebuilding their futures.”

    Background information

    EIB in Ukraine 

    The EIB Group has been supporting Ukraine’s resilience, economy and efforts to rebuild since the very first day of Russia’s full-scale invasion. In 2024, the Bank supported projects aimed at securing Ukraine’s energy supply, repairing critical infrastructure that has been damaged, and ensuring that essential services continue to be delivered across the country. This brings the total amount of aid the EIB has disbursed since the start of the war to over €2.2 billion.

    EIB recovery programmes in Ukraine

    Renovations of a hospital and kindergarten in Lviv Oblast were carried out under the Ukraine Early Recovery Programme (UERP), a €200 million multisectoral framework loan from the EIB. Overall, the Bank finances three recovery programmes, totalling €640 million, which are provided as framework loans to the government of Ukraine. Through these programmes, Ukrainian communities gain access to financial resources to restore essential social infrastructure, including schools, kindergartens, hospitals, housing, heating, and water systems. These EIB-backed programmes are further supported by €15 million in EU grants to facilitate implementation. The Ministry for Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine, in cooperation with the Ministry of Finance, coordinates and oversees the programme implementation, while local authorities and self-governments are responsible for managing recovery sub-projects. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Ukraine provides technical assistance to local communities, supporting project implementation and ensuring independent monitoring for transparency and accountability. More information about the programmes is available here.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK-Mongolia Political Dialogue – Joint Statement

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    UK-Mongolia Political Dialogue – Joint Statement

    Minister for the Indo-Pacific Catherine West, welcomed Mongolian Deputy Prime Minister Amarsaikhan Sainbuyan to London for the 15th UK-Mongolia roundtable.

    Joint Statement

    British Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Indo-Pacific, Minister Catherine West MP, welcomed Mongolian Deputy Prime Minister Amarsaikhan Sainbuyan to London on 26 February 2025 for the 15th UK-Mongolia roundtable, and the first annual political dialogue under the UK-Mongolia Joint Cooperation Roadmap towards a Comprehensive Partnership.

    Minister West and DPM Amarsaikhan affirmed the strong partnership between the UK and Mongolia, grounded in shared democratic values, open societies, and a growing economic relationship.

    Both sides noted deepening geopolitical tensions, stressed their commitment to upholding the principles of the UN Charter, and called on all countries to refrain from using force against the territorial integrity and political independence of any state. They agreed to continue to work closely to uphold international law and advance our shared principles.

    Economic Growth

    The Ministers confirmed that the UK and Mongolia will work together with a view to increasing the volume of trade and investment between the two countries – to drive mutual economic growth

    They agreed to continue discussions with UK Export Finance to explore support for the construction of the metro system in Ulaanbaatar.

    Talks also focused on facilitating trade and investment by working towards the removal of barriers to trade and red tape, and creating stable and transparent business environments.

    Energy Transition

    The Ministers stressed the urgency of action to address the impacts of climate change. They committed to achieving the UK and Mongolia’s NDC and welcomed the recent allocation from the NDC Partnership to Mongolia, including funding from the UK, to reach Mongolia’s climate goals.

    They encouraged greater public-private partnerships to leverage public finance for private sector investment in line with both countries’ climate strategies.

    They looked forward to Mongolia hosting COP17 on Desertification in 2026 and agreed to facilitate an exchange of experts to support preparations for and the outcome of COP17.

    Women’s empowerment

    The Ministers reaffirmed both countries’ commitment to gender equality and to expanding the number of women elected to both parliaments. Minister West welcomed the expanded number of female parliamentarians in the Mongolian parliament following elections in 2024, and commended Mongolia for its quota target of 40% of female candidates by 2028. DPM Amarsaikhan welcomed the UK achieving its highest level of female representation in the UK parliament following the 2024 UK general election.

    The Ministers agreed to work together in multilateral fora ahead of the 30th anniversary of the “Beijing Declaration and Platform Action”.

    Critical minerals

    The Ministers agreed on the importance of extracting Mongolia’s mineral wealth in a manner that preserves Mongolia’s unique environmental legacy. They discussed the importance of responsible mining, and of high environmental, social and governance standards, as well as investing in Mongolian’s skills development.

    In this regard, both sides expressed their commitment to cooperate within the framework of Memorandum of Understanding on critical minerals. 

    Education, Civil Society and People-to-people ties

    The Ministers noted the strength of people-to-people ties between the UK and Mongolia, including the exchange of students through the Chevening Scholarship programme and “Mission 2100” scholarship programme initiated by the President of Mongolia.

    Minister West reaffirmed the UK’s support for English language teaching in Mongolia and both ministers welcomed the progress in expanding English language provision. This could include building on existing partnerships with British companies to increase access to and improve the quality of English Language teaching, as well as supporting remote and disadvantaged communities with UK Overseas Development Assistance.

    The Ministers agreed to explore possibilities to expand higher education opportunities for Mongolian students, including through the Chevening Scholarship, and to expand partnerships between universities.

    They looked forward to the exhibition of the Arts of the Mongol World to be held at the Royal Academy in 2027, and welcomed expanding cultural cooperation.

    They noted the important contribution that civil society organisations play in democratic societies, and committed to continue to engage with and seek inputs from civil society organisations representing a broad range of communities to strengthen democratic debate.

    Minister West and DPM Amarsaikhan looked forward to and highlighted the importance of future high-level visits between the UK and Mongolia.

    On the sidelines of the roundtable meeting, DPM Amarsaikhan held a bilateral meeting with Minister Gareth Thomas. During the meeting, the Ministers held constructive and fruitful discussions on further broadening the bilateral relationship in areas of mutual interest, including the promotion of trade and economic cooperation.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Lasalgaon Merchants Co-operative Bank Ltd., Nashik, Maharashtra

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated February 24, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹1.00 lakh (Rupees One Lakh only) on The Lasalgaon Merchants Co-operative Bank Ltd., Nashik, Maharashtra (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Income Recognition, Asset Classification, Provisioning and Other Related Matters – UCBs’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charge against the bank was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had sanctioned additional credit facilities to certain borrowers for repaying their existing loans.

    This action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of this monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2024-2025/2266

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on Bombay Mercantile Co-operative Bank Ltd., Mumbai

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated February 17, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹33.30 lakh (Rupees Thirty Three Lakh Thirty Thousand only) on Bombay Mercantile Co-operative Bank Ltd., Mumbai (the bank), for contravention of the provisions of Section 6(2) read with Section 56 of The Banking Regulation Act, 1949 (BR Act). This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the BR Act.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2023. Based on supervisory findings of contravention of statutory provisions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said provisions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charge against the bank was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had engaged in and earned income from business not permissible under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

    This action is based on deficiencies in statutory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of this monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2024-2025/2267

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Video: Deputy Secretary-General, Trip Announcement & other topics – Daily Press Briefing

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    – Deputy Secretary-General
    – Trip Announcement
    – Democratic Republic of the Congo
    – Occupied Palestinian Territory
    – Sudan
    – Sudan / Zamzam camp
    – Somalia
    – Syria
    – Central African Republic
    – Police Week

    DEPUTY SECRETARY-GENERAL
    The Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, is in Cape Town, in the Republic of South Africa, representing the Secretary-General at the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting. She also attended the Finance in Common Summit of National Development Banks.
    In her remarks, Ms. Mohammed conveyed the UN’s support for South Africa’s G20 presidency and stressed the importance of G20 action to shepherd the global economy and improve prospects for sustainable development. She called for proactive steps to support developing countries overwhelmed by debt service, to expand development finance, and to create a stronger global financial safety net that protects all countries. She also stressed the need for strengthening tax systems, and making them fairer and more efficient.
    Ms. Mohammed also met with ministers and principals of international financial institutions and development banks ahead of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development, that will take place in Sevilla, in Spain in July. She will be back in New York tomorrow.

    TRIP ANNOUNCEMENT
    The Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, will be travelling to the Democratic Republic of the Congo from tomorrow [27 February] until 1 March. He will first go to Kinshasa, where he will engage with Congolese authorities as well as international partners, to discuss the ongoing situation in the eastern part of the country and the next steps in implementing Resolution 2773 – which was adopted last week.
    He will then head to the East and travel to Beni, in North Kivu, where he will engage with provincial authorities, as well as with the newly- appointed Force Commander for the peacekeeping force, Lt. Gen. Ulisses De Mesquita Gomes, and as well, of course, with peacekeepers deployed in the Beni area. He will be there to assess first-hand recent developments and will also visit UN Peacekeeping positions.
    On 1 March, he will go to Entebbe, in Uganda, where he will pay a visit to MONUSCO personnel who were evacuated to Uganda from Goma last month, following the advances of the M23.
    And as we mentioned – Mr. Lacroix is currently wrapping up his visit to New Delhi, in India, where he attended an international conference on Women, Peace and Security, hosted by the Government of India to address barriers and discuss solutions to women’s participation in peacekeeping efforts.
    While in India, Mr. Lacroix also discussed the future of peacekeeping with Indian senior government officials and visited the National War Memorial.

    DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO
    Staying in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs say they are alarmed by escalating violence and insecurity in recent days in the city of Uvira, about 100 kilometers south of South Kivu’s provincial capital Bukavu.
    Clashes and rising violence in Uvira put local communities and humanitarian workers in extreme danger, with our humanitarian partners reporting multiple incidents of looting and sexual violence.
    Elsewhere in South Kivu, humanitarian assessments over the last ten days indicate that more than 10,000 displaced people have returned from Idjwi island in Lake Kivu – due to dire conditions there – they returned to villages in the areas of Minova and Kalehe. More than 100,000 people had fled to the island since late January.
    Our partners also report that people have been returning to parts of North Kivu, where a recent assessment found that 80,000 people have returned to villages in the territory of Masisi, about 80 kilometers northwest of Goma. Infrastructure in these villages was largely destroyed by recent fighting, and returnees urgently need humanitarian assistance. Ongoing clashes in Masisi also expose people to risks of violence and rights violations.
    For its part, our colleagues at the UN Children’s Fund said today they are deeply worries by the significant increase in reports of grave violations committed against children in parts of the eastern DRC. They say the number of incidents has tripled since the end of January.
    The data collected reveals that cases of sexual violence have risen by more than two and a half times, abductions have increased sixfold, killing and maiming is up sevenfold, and attacks on schools and hospitals have multiplied by 12.

    Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=26%20February%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EhHe98GuD9U

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: Equity Beyond Identity | World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2025

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    Corporate inclusion strategies are expanding from identity-based approaches to taking a broader socio-economic perspective, targeting outcomes such as social mobility alongside an emphasis on all employees’ sense of belonging.

    How can organizations strike the right balance between addressing remaining barriers for historically underrepresented groups while creating a culture of inclusion for all?

    This session is part of the Forum’s Future of DEI workstream.

    Speakers: Angela Williams, Robert C. Garrett, Stefanie Stantcheva, Dominic Arnall, Adam Kahane

    The 55th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum will provide a crucial space to focus on the fundamental principles driving trust, including transparency, consistency and accountability.

    This Annual Meeting will welcome over 100 governments, all major international organizations, 1000 Forum’s Partners, as well as civil society leaders, experts, youth representatives, social entrepreneurs, and news outlets.

    The World Economic Forum is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business, cultural and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. We believe that progress happens by bringing together people from all walks of life who have the drive and the influence to make positive change.

    World Economic Forum Website ► http://www.weforum.org/
    Facebook ► https://www.facebook.com/worldeconomicforum/
    YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/wef
    Instagram ► https://www.instagram.com/worldeconomicforum/
    X ► https://twitter.com/wef
    LinkedIn ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/world-economic-forum
    TikTok ► https://www.tiktok.com/@worldeconomicforum
    Flipboard ► https://flipboard.com/@WEF

    #Davos2025 #WorldEconomicForum #wef25

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xK2-bxPD66w

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EIB backs Africa Finance Corporation $750 Million Climate Resilient Infrastructure Fund

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) has committed to join Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) in financing a $750 million Infrastructure Climate Resilient Fund (ICRF). This landmark initiative will accelerate climate adaptation and sustainable infrastructure across Africa.

    As part of this commitment, the EIB today confirmed it will invest $52.48 million in the Fund, which is managed by AFC Capital Partners (ACP), the asset management arm of AFC. ACP has already secured a $253 million commitment from the Green Climate Fund (GCF), marking GCF’s largest-ever equity investment in Africa. In addition, the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) and two private African pension funds have also committed to the Fund, demonstrating robust institutional backing on the continent and internationally.

    The Infrastructure Climate Resilient Fund aims to accelerate climate adaptation in Africa by embedding resilience measures at every stage of infrastructure development—from design and construction to operation. Using blended finance to de-risk private investment, the Fund also integrates innovative tools such as climate risk parametric insurance to enhance protection against climate-related risks and losses. In addition, the Fund will provide technical assistance to enhance the capacity of countries seeking climate risk assessment and adaptation, aligning with the European Union’s Global Gateway initiative and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

    The EIB formally signed the agreement at the Finance in Common Summit (FICS) in Cape Town today, demonstrating the close collaboration between the EIB, AFC, and other strategic partners.

    “The EIB is committed to supporting private sector investment in climate-resilient infrastructure, especially in regions most vulnerable to climate change,” EIB Vice-President Ambroise Fayolle stated at the ceremony today. “This partnership with the Africa Finance Corporation and the launch of ACP’s Infrastructure Climate Resilient Fund are a significant step towards accelerating Africa’s green and digital transition and ensuring a sustainable future for all. The EIB’s investment is not just about the initial capital injection; it is also intended to have a multiplier effect by attracting more investors, reducing risk, showcasing successful projects, and promoting best practices in climate finance.”

    ACP’s fund aims to demonstrate that Africa can pursue a climate-resilient and sustainable development path by addressing market failures, mitigating environmental risks, strengthening logistics, trade, and industrialization, and accelerating the continent’s digital and energy transition.

    “This Fund is crucial for bridging the funding gap for climate adaptation in Africa,” Samaila Zubairu, AFC’s President & CEO, said at the launch event today. “By focusing on climate-resilient infrastructure, we are not only securing our economic future but also creating opportunities for sustainable growth, and supporting job creation across the continent. We are glad to partner with the EIB and other investors who are committed to increasing the impact of climate finance.”

    Developing Climate-Resilient Infrastructure

    The ICRF focuses on Africa, the world’s most climate-vulnerable continent, by investing in infrastructure that can withstand the impacts of climate change while reducing carbon emissions. The Fund prioritizes resilient, low-carbon solutions across transport and logistics, clean energy, digital infrastructure, and industrial development, ensuring sustainable growth.

    ACP’s investment strategy evaluates climate risk across both physical and transition dimensions, including emissions and climate governance. The Fund is committed to ensuring that infrastructure assets are designed, built, and operated to withstand and adapt to evolving climate conditions. To achieve this, ACP will conduct rigorous climate risk screenings and assessments for every investment, establishing a new benchmark for selecting and implementing the most effective adaptation solutions.

    The Fund leverages a powerful partnership between three major institutions—EIB, AFC, and GCF—uniting their expertise, capital, and commitment to climate resilience. Aligned with the EIB’s Climate Bank Roadmap, ACP will draw on the proven track records and deep technical expertise of both EIB and AFC in infrastructure investment, creating a compelling platform to attract additional investors. Through this strategic collaboration, the $750 million fund is poised to unlock up to $3.7 billion in financing, accelerating the deployment of climate-resilient infrastructure across Africa.

    The GCF will play a critical role by providing technical assistance for due diligence and climate resilience monitoring while also covering the first-loss tranches on new investments, effectively de-risking projects and attracting private capital.

    Once operational, the Fund aims to invest in a diversified portfolio of 10 to 12 projects across Africa. It will also assist countries and entities in capacity building and deployment of climate risk assessment and adaptation solutions.

    Background information

    Leveraging Partnerships

    The Fund is built on a powerful partnership between three major institutions: the European Investment Bank (EIB), Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), and the Green Climate Fund (GCF). Through its asset management arm, AFC Capital Partners (ACP), AFC is collaborating with the EIB to deploy the Fund, leveraging both institutions’ proven track records and technical expertise in infrastructure investment to attract additional investors. The partnership is further strengthened by the GCF’s critical role in providing first-loss protection and technical assistance, ensuring a robust framework for scaling climate-resilient infrastructure across Africa.

    Mobilizing Climate Finance

    The EIB’s $52.48 million commitment is a strategic step toward the Fund’s $750 million target, aimed at catalysing additional investments from both private and public sector partners into climate-resilient infrastructure. This commitment is expected to help mobilize approximately $3.7 billion in total financing, driving tangible, on-the-ground impact across Africa.

    Focusing on EIB’s core priorities agreed by ECOFIN

    The EIB investment will support the climate bank ambition to accelerate international action on adaptation and resilience. With an expected climate action and environmental sustainability contribution of about 80%, the operation will contribute to EIB’s objectives to dedicate (i) 50% of its financing toward climate action and environmental sustainability and (ii) 15% of its financing toward to climate adaptation by 2025. The Fund supports three of the five EU Global Gateway thematic priorities: i) climate and energy, ii) transport and iii) digital.

    Addressing Market Failures

    The EIB investment in ACP’s Infrastructure Climate Resilient Fund is intended to address the scarcity of equity capital for greenfield infrastructure projects, and to help overcome other market failures such as the lack of incentives for green energy solutions or market failures related to transport accessibility and digital connectivity. The Fund also aims to improve the efficiency of logistics and trade corridors and contribute to the digital and energy transition.

    Supporting the Green and Digital Transition

    By investing in clean energy and digital infrastructure, the Fund aims to support the broader green and digital transition in Africa and contribute to diversification and security of energy supply, as well as improved access to digital connectivity.

    Enhancing Capacity for Climate Risk Management

    ACP’s Infrastructure Climate Resilient Fund will provide technical assistance to build capacity for climate risk assessment and adaptation, with a focus on integrating climate risk considerations into project design and construction.

    Creating Jobs and Economic Opportunities

    Projects backed by ACP’s Infrastructure Climate Resilient Fund will contribute to job creation, economic growth, and improved quality of life in the target regions. These projects are expected to generate significant temporary employment during construction as well as permanent jobs during operation.

    Key projects in the ICRF pipeline, such as the Lobito Corridor, underscore AFC’s pivotal role in driving transformational and climate-resilient infrastructure investments across Africa. As the lead developer of the project, AFC is spearheading efforts to enhance regional connectivity and economic integration through the corridor, which is set to become a critical trade and logistics route linking Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Zambia.

    The Lobito Corridor is expected to unlock vast economic opportunities by facilitating efficient transportation of critical minerals, agricultural goods, and other commodities, reducing dependency on other congested export routes and fostering industrial development along the wider corridor. Alongside partners including the European Union, the United States Government, the African Development Bank and the governments of Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia, AFC is working to ensure the corridor is developed with climate resilience in mind, integrating sustainable infrastructure solutions that can withstand environmental challenges while promoting long-term economic growth.

    Beyond Lobito, the ICRF pipeline includes other strategic projects across transport, clean energy, and digital infrastructure, all designed to attract institutional investment and address Africa’s pressing infrastructure gap. Through these initiatives, ACP continues to highlight its commitment to mobilizing capital for projects that deliver both financial returns and lasting developmental impact.

    The investments backed by the Fund will actively promote the adoption of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) best practices, including gender equality, protection, and anti-discrimination policies.

    De-risking Investments

    The Fund’s structure, with support from the EIB and other institutions like the Green Climate Fund (GCF), aims to de-risk climate investments.

    The GCF is providing grant funding to help with due diligence and monitoring of climate resilience, which can make the investments more attractive to other investors. Additionally, the Fund will integrate innovative climate risk insurance to complement traditional indemnity programs.

    Aligning with Global and Regional Objectives

    The EIB investment aligns with EU strategies, the African Union’s Agenda 2063, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and aims to support the implementation of Nationally Determined Contributions.

    Background information

    About EIB Global

    EIB Global is the EIB Group’s specialised arm dedicated to increasing the impact of international partnerships and development finance.  EIB Global is designed to foster strong, focused partnership within Team Europe, alongside fellow development finance institutions, and civil society. EIB Global brings the Group closer to local people, companies and institutions through our offices across the world

    About AFC

    AFC was established in 2007 to be the catalyst for pragmatic infrastructure and industrial investments across Africa. AFC’s approach combines specialist industry expertise with a focus on financial and technical advisory, project structuring, project development, and risk capital to address Africa’s infrastructure development needs and drive sustainable economic growth.

    Seventeen years on, AFC has developed a track record as the partner of choice in Africa for investing and delivering on instrumental, high-quality infrastructure assets that provide essential services in the core infrastructure sectors of power, natural resources, heavy industry, transport, and telecommunications. AFC has 44 member countries and has invested over US$15 billion in 36 African countries since its inception.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EIB Global and Sparkasse Bank team up to boost green investments in North Macedonia

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) – via EIB Global – and Sparkasse Bank AD Skopje have held a workshop in Skopje to launch their partnership under the Greening Financial Systems (GFS) technical assistance programme. This initiative is part of the EIB’s wider efforts to support the resilience of financial institutions, which play a crucial role in driving green transformation and stepping up financing for climate and sustainability projects.

    “The GFS programme aims to support the transition to net-zero financial systems, which is an important step for climate action and promoting green investments among small businesses. Working with Sparkasse Bank, as well as with the National Bank of North Macedonia and other financial institutions in the country, is a significant step towards addressing climate challenges in North Macedonia and creating a resilient financial system. Along with this technical support and other initiatives we are supporting in the country, as the EU climate bank, we aim to promote green investments, help the local economy address climate risks and increase its competitiveness both regionally and globally,” said EIB representative to North Macedonia Björn Gabriel.

    The programme is financed by the German government through the EIB’s International Climate Initiative Fund and is run in collaboration with the NDC Partnership, a global coalition of countries and institutions that work together to drive climate action.

    “For Sparkasse Bank, working with the EIB is particularly significant given our leadership position, with more than 40% market share in financing green projects in North Macedonia and over €115 million in financial support provided for more than 140 green projects. This is a pivotal moment for us and the financial sector in North Macedonia. With this support, we will enhance our existing practices with regards to green lending, an area in which we have been active for over 14 years. Our goal is to promote the transformation towards an environmentally sustainable economy, and we strongly believe that working with the EIB will yield positive results, not only for our clients, but also for society as a whole, helping to mitigate climate change and creating a better future for all,” said Deputy President of the Management board of Sparkasse Bank Nina Nedanoska.

    In the last two years, the EIB and Sparkasse Bank allocated €46 million to companies in North Macedonia, with €19 million disbursed so far under the EIB green credit line helping to decarbonise the local economy. In addition to Sparkasse Bank, the banks benefiting from the GFS programme in North Macedonia are NLB Bank Skopje, ProCredit Bank and Komercijalna banka.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Spain: EIB finances with €20 million Universal DX to develop innovative diagnostic tests for early cancer detection

    Source: European Investment Bank

    UniversalDX

    • Universal DX is a Spanish startup developing cutting-edge blood-based liquid biopsy solutions for the early detection of cancer.
    • The financing is part of the support the EIB is providing to European MedTech startups developing innovative medical solutions and contributes to the EIB Group strategic priority of accelerating digitalisation and technological innovation.
    • The operation is supported by InvestEU, an EU programme that aims to unlock over €372 billion in investment by 2027.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) has signed a €20 million loan with Spain company Universal DX to support development and commercialization of cutting-edge blood-based liquid biopsy solutions for the early detection of cancer. The survival rate of certain cancers such as colorectal cancer, can increase significantly if detected at an early stage.

    The EIB financing will support the expansion of Universal Dx’s most advanced product, Signal-C® for Colorectal Cancer Screening and the development of other pipeline products: Signal-Li and Signal-Lu for Liver and Lung cancer respectively. The loan will also support Universal DX international expansion plan, including advancing a large clinical trial in the US for FDA approval and reimbursement.

    The Sevilla-based startup is a MedTech pioneer. Their technology is based on a proprietary, innovative platform encompassing a Next-Generation-Sequencing Assay, measuring Universal DX proprietary methylation, fragmentation, and microbiome biomarkers, and detecting the signal of the biomarker panel patterns with state-of-the-art Machine Learning-based bioinformatic solutions and algorithms.

    “We are delighted to join forces with Universal DX to advance the fight against cancer and more specifically the early detection of the illness to improve survival rate. This financing agreement is one more example of how the EIB is helping innovative European startups developing breakthrough medical solutions and supporting the European MedTech industry,” said EIB Director of Equity, Growth Capital and Project Finance Alessandro Izzo.

    The EIB loan is guaranteed by InvestEU, the flagship EU programme to mobilize over €372 billion of additional public and private sector investment to support EU policy goals from 2021 to 2027. The project contributes to Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan and the EIB Group strategic priority of accelerating digitalisation and technological innovation.

    “Our mission is to create a future where cancer is curable. With the transformative power of our technology, we are taking bold steps to turn this vision into reality. We are deeply inspired by the support of the EIB, which will enable us to contribute to the European Plan to Fight Cancer and to bring our revolutionary blood tests for early cancer detection to both European and U.S. markets.” said Juan Martinez-Barea, Founder and Chairman of Universal DX.

    The investments associated to the project will generate cutting edge scientific knowledge and retaining European scientific acumen. The project will also contribute to Europe’s competitiveness boosting the innovative capacity of European based life science industries and businesses.

    Background information

    EIB
    The ElB is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by the Member States. Built around eight core priorities, it finances investments that pursue EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, the capital markets union, and a stronger Europe in a more peaceful and prosperous world.

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund, signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.

    All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Agreement, as pledged in the group’s Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects that contribute directly to climate change mitigation and adaptation, and a healthier environment.

    In Spain, the EIB Group signed €12.3 billion of new financing for more than 100 high-impact projects in 2024, helping power the country’s green and digital transition and promote economic growth, competitiveness and better services for inhabitants.

    High-quality, up-to-date photos of our headquarters for media use are available here.

    InvestEU

    The InvestEU programme provides the European Union with crucial long-term funding by leveraging substantial private and public funds in support of a sustainable recovery. It also helps mobilise private investments for the European Union’s policy priorities, such as the European Green Deal and the digital transition. The InvestEU programme brings together under one roof the multitude of EU financial instruments currently available to support investment in the European Union, making funding for investment projects in Europe simpler, more efficient and more flexible. The programme consists of three components: the InvestEU Fund, the InvestEU Advisory Hub and the InvestEU Portal. The InvestEU Fund is implemented through financial partners that will invest in projects using the EU budget guarantee of €26.2 billion. The entire budget guarantee will back the investment projects of the implementing partners, increase their risk-bearing capacity and thus mobilise at least €372 billion in additional investment.”

    UniversalDX
    Universal DX is a biotech company headquartered in Spain with its US office in Dallas (Texas). Its mission is to transform cancer into a curable disease by detecting it early. Utilizing multi-omics, computational biology, and AI tools, UDX is deciphering the unique cfDNA sequences that capture cancer’s earliest signals. UDX’s most advanced assay is for colorectal cancer screening with high accuracy for pre-cancer and cancers. The company’s technology can also be applied to other high-burden cancers. UDX has presented data on lung, pancreatic, liver, and esophageal cancers.

    In November 2023, Universal DX announced a collaboration with Quest Diagnostics, a leading provider of diagnostic services, designating Quest’s oncology center of excellence in Lewisville, TX, as the sole trial testing site for its study supporting Signal-C® in the US. Assuming FDA approval for the test, Quest will provide clinical laboratory services in the U.S., with UDX delivering assay results via its cloud platform. If approved, both parties can commercialize the test.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Recognition for Sellafield’s inclusion trailblazers

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Recognition for Sellafield’s inclusion trailblazers

    Two Sellafield Ltd colleagues, Anouschka Van Mourik and Kiara Orchard, have been nominated as ‘Future List Game Changers’ in the Northern Power Women Awards.

    Kiara Orchard (left), Anouschka Van Mourik (right).

    The awards recognise and celebrate trailblazing individuals who are driving inclusion and innovation across the north of the UK.

    With a record-breaking 1,600 nominations across 12 categories and 3 Game Changer lists, the awards celebrate those shaping a more equal and sustainable future.

    Anouschka Van Mourik, a commissioning engineer at Sellafield Ltd, has worked within the company for just over 2 years, starting as a graduate.

    Anouschka was shortlisted due to her work in championing gender equality and inclusion, co-chairing the Sellafield Gender Balance Network, and her role as a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) ambassador where she encourages young people to pursue education and understand the vast range of STEM careers available.

    Anouschka said:

    It has been great to play a part in the rollout of diversity initiatives at Sellafield and I’ve found the experience really rewarding. Inspiring young people as a STEM ambassador and working with a fantastic team has also been an honour, and I look forward to continuing this important work this year.

    Being recognised alongside so many inspiring women is truly humbling, and I’m really looking forward to attending the ceremony in March at Manchester Central Convention Complex.

    Joining Anouschka on the shortlist is Kiara Orchard, an assistant project manager at Sellafield, who started in 2019 as an apprentice.

    Kiara received recognition from the awards due to her support in delivering gender equality and inclusion initiatives in the workplace, which has included co-chairing the Sellafield Menohub.

    Kiara said:

    I’ve always been passionate about fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment in the workplace. Championing initiatives has been incredibly fulfilling and it’s been an honour to see how these changes make a tangible difference in people’s lives.

    Being recognised for my efforts is a tremendous honour, and I’m proud to be recognised and stand alongside other remarkable women who are leading the way in creating positive change.

    The awards ceremony will take place on 18th March 2025.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Learning Estate Strategy approved

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    At yesterday’s Education Committee (Wednesday 26 February 2025), Members approved the draft Learning Estate Strategy (LES).

    The LES aligns with the local priorities set out within the Highland Investment Plan (HIP) vision for developing its learning estate. In May 2024, The Highland Council agreed an approach to develop sustainable local services and communities for the future. The HIP set out how the Council will work over the next 10 years to optimise its investment of resources in its learning estate in a prioritised manner to meet the needs of 21st century learning and teaching.

    Education Committee Chair, Cllr John Finlayson said: “This strategy reflects not only the Council’s ambition but also its commitment to investing in our children and young people’s future and I am really delighted that it received the support of Members. 

    The Learning Estate Strategy provides the vision and methodology for creating spaces that will enhance and sustain communities across the Highlands. At its heart, it will support children and young people through their learning journey from early years through to primary and secondary education, including delivering for Additional Support Needs and enhanced provisions to meet the needs of all learners.  This is not only important to equip our young people with skills for life and work, but also to develop the workforce for the future to grow the Highland economy and sustain our communities across the whole Council area.”

    Housing & Property Committee Chair, Cllr Glynis Campbell Sinclair added: “The scale of the challenge before us is not to be underestimated, out of 197 schools across Highland, a total of 92 schools are rated as “C – Poor” or “D – Bad” for Condition and/or Suitability, with 42 schools rated as “C” or “D” for both. Despite significant investment in our school estate, the Council cannot sustain the associated costs of an ageing property portfolio, which is why the Council will continue to explore all opportunities for capital investment in our schools.”

    The LES supports the school estate management planning process, allowing the Council to identify the need for investment going forward and to prioritise accordingly and in a way that is open and objective.

    A new generation of community facilities is envisioned for the Highlands, with Points of Delivery (PODs) seeing a range of public services brought together in a single location.

    The Learning Estate Strategy (LES) will be reviewed annually, particularly to reflect any changes arising from the annual update of school roll forecasts and the annual ‘Core Facts’ report to the Scottish Government which sets out the extent, condition and sufficiency of the schools in the learning estate.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council Tax rise proposed to support investment in Highland

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Highland Council is set to consider a proposed 7% increase to Council Tax for 2025-26 at its budget meeting on 6 March. 

    A 7% increase for 2025/26, represents a 5% core increase to balance the budget for the year, plus 2% earmarked for capital investment through the Highland Investment Plan. This is in line with an approach agreed by Council in its approval of a £2bn Highland Investment Plan strategy in May 2024.  

    The Plan will see wide ranging investment across communities in the Highlands, with over £1bn of capital investment in schools and roads over the next 10 years in phase one of the programme. 

    Initial seed-funding of £2.8m was approved in May 2024 to create £50m of capital to start the investment fund, with the first phase of investment approved in December 2024.  

    Ringfencing 2% on council tax each year will generate capital to maintain the funding plan over the long-term. The ongoing funding must be agreed each year by Council as part of the budget setting process and 2025-26 is the first year that Councillors will be asked to approve the funding through Council Tax.  

    The funding mechanism will enable the Council to borrow significant capital to invest in a long-term infrastructure investment programme for the Highland area. 

    Convener of the Council Bill Lobban said: “This funding mechanism is a radical solution to the significant challenges and costs we face in maintaining and renewing our buildings and roads. The Highland Investment Plan responds to the widespread public support for further investment in the school estate, as well as emerging critical issues that we face in dealing with schools with RAAC and HACC (High alumina cement concrete).  

    “An investment programme like this will create jobs and economic prosperity across the region and bring transformation to Highland communities over the next 10 years.”   

    Leader of the Council Raymond Bremner said: “The Highland Investment Plan is one of the biggest investment programmes in Scotland and the largest ever for Highland.    

    “The first 10 years of the Investment Programme will see investment in an initial phase of projects which will be place-based. The first of these include Dingwall, with £40m to £50m investment to redevelop education and community facilities across the town in addition to housing, infrastructure and depots, with a similar approach in Thurso, Alness, Brora, Dornoch, Golspie and Invergordon in the coming years.” 

    He added: “In addition to improving our school estate and depots, the planned investment will help to address the on-going challenges we face in maintaining over 4000 miles of Highland roads and sustaining rural communities. 

    “A long-term investment programme for roads and transportation will ensure a sustainable approach to investment, contractor procurement, and opportunities to attract match funding from developer contributions or other external funding sources. There will also be significant local contracting and business opportunities, and wider community economic benefit associated with the delivery of the Investment Plan.”  

    The financial report going to Council on 6 March, sets out recommendations to deliver a balanced budget, and includes information relating to budget assumptions, risks, budget pressures, growth and investment, as well as savings, reserves and council tax. 

    All previous planning assumptions have been revised and updated within this report and reflect the implications of the UK Government Budget and Scottish Government draft budget 2025/26.  

    The budget report and proposals can be found on the Council’s website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lifesaving Community Defibrillator installed in Banbridge

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Alderman Glenn Barr and Vice Chair of the Banbridge Chamber of Commerce, Joe Quail pictured with the new Community Defibrillator located on Downshire Plaza, Banbridge.

    Banbridge has taken a significant step forward in community safety with the installation of a new public-access defibrillator, a vital resource that could help save lives in the event of sudden cardiac arrest.

    The device, which has been placed in a central location on Downshire Plaza at the Scarva Street junction, was provided by Alderman Glenn Barr who purchased the lifesaving equipment during his time in office as Lord Mayor when the public realm scheme got underway.

    Alderman Barr emphasised the importance of having accessible emergency medical equipment in the community he said, “This defibrillator is a vital addition to Banbridge, in the event of a cardiac emergency, every second counts. Having this life-saving device readily available will give people the best possible chance of survival and I want to commend all those involved in securing and installing this much-needed resource.”

    The initiative has been warmly welcomed by local businesses and community leaders. Vice Chair of the Banbridge Chamber of Commerce, Joe Quail, praised the installation and its potential to safeguard lives in the town.

    We are delighted to see this defibrillator installed in Banbridge. As a community, we all have a role to play in promoting health and safety, and having this device available in a central location provides reassurance to residents, visitors, and local businesses alike. We encourage everyone to familiarise themselves with its location and the simple steps involved in using it in an emergency.”

    The defibrillator is accessible 24/7, and its location has been registered with emergency services to ensure swift access when needed.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor pledges support for Irish language strike

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Mayor pledges support for Irish language strike

    27 February 2025

    Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr has today pledged her support for those taking part in the Irish language strike in protest at cuts to cross border language funding. Speaking during Chairpersons Business at today’s Full Council meeting at the Guildhall, Mayor said she wanted to raise the issue at the Council meeting to raise awareness of the half-day strike has been prompted by cuts by the Irish Language Agency – Foras na Gaeilge and to pledge her support for the Irish language.

    She said: “Around a quarter of the Foras na Gaeilge’s funding is from the Stormont Executive and around three-quarters is from the Irish Government. Foras na Gaeilge has said it has to make savings of more than €800,000 (£669,000) in 2025 and that will mean funding cuts to some groups operating in Northern Ireland, including in Derry.  More than 40 language organisations across the island of Ireland are taking part in the strike action today, Wednesday 26 February 2025. This is the first time that the Irish language and Gaeltacht community had taken such action and Irish language organisations are encouraging both governments to reverse the cuts and to put into place a long-term solution to the funding crisis.

    As a Council we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all cultural identities are respected.As Mayor of this City and District I think it is vitally important that we acknowledge the significance of the Irish language within our city’s diverse cultural landscape and pledge our support towards this campaign for an end to the cuts and a long term funding solution to be found.”

    —————

    As Gaeilige.

    Gheall Méara Chomhairle Chathair Dhoire agus Cheantar an tSratha Báin, an Comhairleoir Lilian Seenoi Barr, a tacaíocht inniu dóibh siúd atá ag glacadh páirte i stailc na Gaeilge mar agóid faoi chiorruithe ar mhaoiniú teanga trasteorann.  Ag labhairt di inniu le linn Gnó an Chathaoirligh ag Mórchruinniú na Comhairle, dúirt an Méara go raibh sí ag iarraidh an cheist a ardú ag cruinniú na Comhairle chun feasacht a ardú ar an stailc leathlae a spreagadh ag ciorruithe de chuid Ghníomhaireacht na Gaeilge – Foras na Gaeilge agus a tacaíocht a gealladh don Ghaeilge.

    Dúirt sí: “Tagann thart ar cheathrú de mhaoiniú Fhoras na Gaeilge ó Fheidhmeannas Stormont agus tagann thart ar trí cheathrú ó Rialtas na hÉireann.  Tá sé ráite ag Foras na Gaeilge go gcaithfidh siad coigilteas de níos mó ná €800,000 (£669,000) a dhéanamh in 2025 agus ciallaíonn sin go gcaithfear ciorruithe maoinithe a ghearradh ar roinnt grúpaí atá ag feidhmiú i dTuaisceart na hÉireann, i nDoire san áireamh.   Tá breis is 40 eagraíocht teanga ag glacadh páirte sa stailc inniu, Dé Céadaoin 26 Feabhra 2025.  Seo an chéad uair a raibh a leithéid de ghníomh déanta ag pobal na Gaeilge agus na Gaeltachta agus tá eagraíochtaí Gaeilge ag spreagadh an dá Rialtas na ciorruithe a aisiompú agus réiteach fadtéarmach a chur i bhfeidhm ar an ghéarchéim mhaoinithe.

    Mar Chomhairle, tá muid tiomanta i dtreo timpeallacht chuimsitheach a chothú ina dtugtar meas ar gach féiniúlacht chultúrtha.  Mar Mhéara ar an Chathair agus an Cheantar seo, sílim go bhfuil sé fíorthábhachtach go n-aithníonn muid tábhacht na Gaeilge laistigh de thírdhreach cultúrtha ilghnéitheach na cathrach agus geallann muid ár dtacaíocht i dtreo an fheachtais seo chun deireadh a chur leis na ciorruithe agus réiteach maoinithe fadtéarmach a aimsiú.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Households urged to take action in race to replace RTS meters

    Source: City of Leicester

    THOUSANDS of Leicester residents could be left without heating or hot water this summer unless they have their aging electricity meters replaced.

    The Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) – which was introduced over 40 years ago – uses radio signals to tell some electricity meters to switch heating or hot water systems on or off. It is due to be phased out by the end of June 2025, as the system is no longer viable.

    There are about 600,000 RTS electricity meters across Britain and a national RTS Taskforce has been set up to upgrade them all before the switch-off date.

    Around 4,000 households in Leicester are affected, most of which have storage heaters linked to an old-style RTS electricity meter that will need to be replaced as soon as possible.

    Customers can now make appointments with their energy suppliers to have their RTS meters replaced with new smart meters at no additional cost.  Energy suppliers will also be contacting customers directly. E.ON Next is leading in work across the city to significantly raise the replacement rate by devoting engineering resources as part of a targeted campaign.

    The campaign is being supported by Leicester City Council to help encourage anyone who has and old-style RTS electricity meter – or who thinks that they might have – to contact their energy supplier as soon as possible to arrange an appointment to have it replaced.

    Deputy City Mayor Elly Cutkelvin said: “We know that Leicester has a relatively high number of households with electric storage heating systems that will likely be connected to an old-style RTS meter.

    “These meters need to be replaced as soon as possible to ensure that people aren’t left without heating when the switch-off happens this summer.

    “The process to replace your RTS meter is usually straightforward and is carried out at no cost to the household. But time is running out. Energy suppliers will be contacting affected households directly and we would urge anyone affected to make an appointment to have their meter upgraded as soon as possible.”

    The national RTS Taskforce was launched in January 2025 and includes energy regulator Ofgem and trade association Energy UK and is supported by consumer group National Energy Action.

    It urges owners of RTS electricity meters to act now and accept the offer of a meter upgrade from their energy supplier. 

    Charlotte Friel, Director for Retail Pricing & Systems at Ofgem, said: “One of the key functions of the RTS Taskforce is identifying hotspot areas that need more targeted resources to accelerate the upgrade programme. So it is pleasing to see E.ON Next and other energy suppliers pushing to drive up the replacement rate in Leicester.

    “This is a positive declaration of intent to meet the RTS challenge head on, so our message to people in the city is that support is ready and waiting. If you are contacted by your energy supplier to arrange an appointment, please book it.”

    Dhara Vyas, Chief Executive at Energy UK, added: “Energy suppliers continue to make contact with customers who have an RTS meter and are working hard to prioritise support for vulnerable customers ahead of the deadline this summer.

    “It’s really important that anyone with an RTS meter has it replaced as soon as possible – delaying this could result in their heating and hot water not working properly. Contacting their supplier to arrange a replacement – at no extra cost to the customer – as soon as possible will minimise the disruption, help ensure a smooth upgrade to a smart meter and mean that customers continue to enjoy the benefits they currently get from their RTS meter.”

    A supporting campaign will run across TV, video on demand, radio, digital audio, billboards and local press, highlighting the urgent need for RTS customers to book the installation of a new meter as soon as their energy supplier contacts them.  

    Information about the RTS switch off is also available on the city council’s website

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from Premier Pillai on the Yukon Sustainability Award winners

    Statement from Premier Pillai on the Yukon Sustainability Award winners
    jlutz

    Premier and Minister of Economic Development Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:

    “Last week, three Yukon businesses were recognized for their commitment to sustainability at ECO Impact 2025, an annual event hosted by Environmental Careers Organization (ECO) Canada. This annual event celebrates the work of environmental professionals across the country, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers and innovators to discuss best practices in sustainability and environmental management.

    “As part of this event, the Yukon Sustainability Awards were presented to businesses demonstrating outstanding environmental stewardship in the territory. I invite Yukoners to join me in congratulating this year’s recipients.

    • Small Business Award – Future Proof My Building Consulting Ltd.
    • Medium-Large Business Award – Snowline Gold Corp.
    • The Regional Business Award – Tincup Wilderness Lodges Ltd.

    “Our government partnered with ECO Canada to establish the Yukon Sustainability Awards to recognize environmentally conscious business practices and draw attention to leaders in sustainability across all sectors of the territory’s economy. Yukoners take pride in environmental responsibility and it is essential to highlight and celebrate those who integrate sustainable practices into their operations.

    “The award recipients were selected by a jury made up of industry, academic and government professionals from across Canada and beyond. Businesses were assessed based on corporate sustainability practices and environmental management systems and how they support the Yukon’s Our Clean Future strategy, our roadmap for climate action and a green economy.

    “This marks the second year that Yukon businesses were recognized for their sustainability efforts. Last year’s winners included Parsons Inc., High Latitude Energy Consulting and Environmental Dynamics Inc.

    “Thank you to ECO Canada for making these awards possible and congratulations once again to this year’s winners.”

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from Minister Silver on the federal consumer carbon pricing program

    Statement from Minister Silver on the federal consumer carbon pricing program
    zaburke

    Minister of Finance Sandy Silver has issued the following statement: 

    “All candidates in the federal Liberal leadership race – one of whom will serve as Canada’s next Prime Minister – have stated their intention to end, freeze or significantly change the consumer carbon price in Canada. 

    “The leaders of the Conservative Party of Canada and the federal New Democratic Party have also stated their intent to end or significantly change the federal carbon pricing mechanism, indicating that it is highly unlikely that a carbon price will be in place following the next federal election.

    “Given that the end of the federal carbon price means the Yukon will no longer receive revenues to sustain our made-in-Yukon carbon rebate program, I have written to the federal government and asked them to work closely with the territory to ensure a systematic wind down of the program in the Yukon and a cancellation of the planned April 1, 2025, carbon levy increase.

    “Our carbon rebate programs were developed in good faith, in partnership with Canada and the territories, to address northern challenges. 

    “The Government of Yukon is calling for immediate discussions with federal officials to plan for these changes and ensure that Yukoners are not left behind as Canada shifts its approach to fighting climate change.”
     

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI: AXIS Funded Introduces Fully Transparent A-Book Model, Bringing Institutional Execution to Prop Traders

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Feb. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Most proprietary trading firms operate under a B-Book model, profiting when traders lose. AXIS Funded has introduced a fully transparent A-Book trading framework, ensuring that all funded trader positions are directly executed in the live market.

    With this shift, AXIS Funded eliminates the conflicts of interest common in B-Book models by aligning its success with traders. Unlike most prop firms that claim A-Book execution without verifiable proof, AXIS Funded publicly commits to a fully disclosed execution model, emphasizing real market conditions and institutional-grade liquidity.

    Institutional Execution Backed by Real Liquidity
    AXIS Funded was founded by former institutional traders and liquidity providers, equipping it with the infrastructure to offer genuine direct market execution. Before launching its proprietary trading firm, AXIS Capital operated as a B2B liquidity provider for hedge funds and financial institutions, granting access to deep liquidity pools and institutional execution.

    This background allows AXIS Funded to provide real market conditions, giving traders access to the same execution quality as institutional clients—something most prop firms simply cannot match.

    Key Features of AXIS Funded’s A-Book Model

    • Institutional-Grade Liquidity – Trades are executed with deep liquidity providers, ensuring tight spreads, low latency, and competitive pricing.
    • No Conflict of Interest – Unlike traditional prop firms that rely on a B-Book model, AXIS Funded’s profitability comes from volume and execution, not trader losses.
    • Direct Market Execution – All trades from funded accounts are mirrored into the live market, eliminating price manipulation or simulated execution.
    • Regulatory-Grade Standards – AXIS Funded operates with transparency, maintaining institutional-level risk management and trade execution policies.

    New Copy Trading Feature for Funded Traders
    As part of its initiative to innovate within the proprietary trading space, AXIS Funded has also introduced a structured copy trading feature. Unlike traditional copy trading services, this initiative allows funded traders to automatically replicate trades from expert-managed accounts, ensuring that all strategies benefit from real-market execution rather than internalized, simulated trades.

    Company Leadership on Market Transparency
    “AXIS isn’t just another prop firm throwing around industry buzzwords,” said Tom Harrington, CEO and Founder of AXIS Funded. “We built this firm to disrupt the outdated, opaque models dominating the industry. With our institutional background, we’ve created a true A-Book prop firm where traders get real market execution and zero conflicts of interest. Our mission is simple – we give our clients the same level of access and execution that traders demand, without the hidden pitfalls of traditional prop firms.”

    About AXIS Funded
    AXIS Funded is a leading A-Book proprietary trading firm, dedicated to transparency and institutional-grade execution. With a background as a B2B liquidity provider, AXIS Funded ensures that traders operate in real market conditions with no conflicts of interest. The firm provides access to over 5,600 markets, 24-hour payouts, and structured copy trading for funded traders, making it one of the most advanced proprietary trading firms in the industry.
    For more information, users can visit www.axisfunded.com

    Contact

    COO
    Alan Watts
    Axis Funded
    alanw@axisfunded.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c90cf9b6-95ac-4a4d-a637-f48a01a0da4a

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Golar LNG Limited Preliminary fourth quarter and financial year 2024 results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Highlights and subsequent events

    • Golar LNG Limited (“Golar” or “the Company”) reports Q4 2024 net income attributable to Golar of $3 million inclusive of $29 million of non-cash items1, and Adjusted EBITDA1 of $59 million.
    • Full year 2024 net income attributable to Golar of $50 million inclusive of $131 million of non-cash items1, and Adjusted EBITDA1 of $241 million.
    • Total Golar Cash1 of $699 million.
    • Acquired all remaining minority interests in FLNG Hilli.
    • FLNG Hilli maintained market-leading operational track record and exceeded 2024 production target.
    • Pampa Energia S.A., Harbour Energy plc and YPF joined Southern Energy S.A. (“SESA”), creating a consortium of leading Argentinian gas producers planning to use FLNG Hilli under definitive agreements announced in July 2024.
    • FLNG Gimi commissioning commenced and first LNG produced, after receiving first gas from the GTA field.
    • MKII FLNG conversion project on schedule (9% complete) and Fuji LNG arrived at the shipyard for conversion works.
    • Sold shareholding in Avenir LNG Limited (“Avenir”) for net proceeds of $39 million.
    • Completed exit from LNG shipping with sale of the LNG carrier, Golar Arctic for $24 million.
    • Declared dividend of $0.25 per share for the quarter.

    FLNG Hilli: Maintained her market leading operational track record and exceeded her contracted 2024 production volume resulting in the recognition of $0.5 million of 2024 over production accrued revenue. Q4 2024 Distributable Adjusted EBITDA1 was $68 million excluding overproduction revenue. FLNG Hilli has offloaded 128 cargoes to date.

    In December 2024, Golar acquired all remaining third party minority ownership interests in FLNG Hilli for $60 million in cash and a $30 million increase in Golar’s share of contractual debt. The acquisitions included a total of 5.45% common units, 10.9% Series A shares and 10.9% Series B shares. The transaction was equivalent to ~8% of the full FLNG capacity. Following this, Golar has a 100% economic interest in FLNG Hilli.

    The acquisition is immediately accretive to Golar’s cash flow. Annual Adjusted EBITDA1 from the base tolling fee is expected to increase by approximately $7 million. The Brent oil linked commodity element of the current FLNG Hilli charter will increase from $2.7 million to $3.1 million in annual Adjusted EBITDA1 attributable to Golar per dollar for Brent oil prices between $60/bbl and the contractual ceiling. The TTF linked component of the current tariff will similarly increase annual Adjusted EBITDA1 generation attributable to Golar from $3.2 million to $3.7 million per $/MMBtu of European TTF gas prices above a floor price that delivers a base annual TTF fee of $5 million. The acquisition of the minority ownership interests is also accretive to Golar’s Adjusted EBITDA backlog1, with an ~8% shareholding of the 20-year charter in Argentina starting in 2027* increasing the backlog by approximately $0.5 billion, before commodity exposure.

    Golar expects to release significant capital from a contemplated refinancing of FLNG Hilli following completion of the conditions precedent in the SESA 20-year charter.

    FLNG Gimi: Following the commercial reset with bp announced in August 2024, accelerated commissioning commenced in October 2024 using gas from a LNG carrier. In January 2025, gas from the carrier was replaced by feedgas from the bp operated FPSO which allowed full commissioning to commence. This milestone triggered the final upward adjustment to the Commissioning Rate under the commercial reset. LNG is now being produced, and subject to receipt of sufficient feed gas, the first LNG export cargo is expected within Q1 2025. Assuming all conditions are met, the Commercial Operations Date (“COD”) is expected within Q2 2025. COD will trigger the start of the 20-year Lease and Operate Agreement that unlocks the equivalent of around $3 billion of Adjusted EBITDA backlog1 (Golar’s share) and recognition of contractual payments comprised of capital and operating elements in both the balance sheet and income statement.

    A debt facility to refinance FLNG Gimi is in an advanced stage, with credit approvals now received. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and third party stakeholder approvals.

    MKII FLNG 3.5MTPA conversion: Conversion work on the $2.2 billion MK II FLNG (“MK II”) is proceeding to schedule. After discharging her final cargo as an LNG carrier in January 2025, the conversion vessel Fuji LNG entered CIMC’s Yantai yard in February 2025. Golar has spent $0.6 billion to date, all of which is equity funded. The MK II is expected to be delivered in Q4 2027 and be the first available FLNG capacity globally.

    As part of the EPC agreement, Golar also has an option for a second MK II conversion slot at CIMC for delivery within 2028.

    FLNG business development: In July 2024, Golar announced that it had entered into definitive agreements for the deployment of an FLNG in Argentina. In October 2024, Golar received a notice reserving FLNG Hilli for the 20-year charter. During November 2024, Pampa Energia joined the SESA project with a 20% equity stake, in December 2024 Harbour Energy joined with a 15% equity stake and in February 2025 YPF joined with a 15% equity stake. Pan American Energy (“PAE”) remains with a 40% equity stake and Golar with its 10% equity stake. SESA will be responsible for sourcing Argentine natural gas to the FLNG, chartering and operating FLNG Hilli and marketing and selling LNG globally. The addition of leading natural gas and oil producers in Argentina further strengthens both the project and Golar’s charter counterparty.

    Following the end of FLNG Hilli’s current charter in July 2026 offshore Cameroon, FLNG Hilli will undergo vessel upgrades to maintain 20-years of continuous operations offshore. Operations in Argentina are expected to commence in 2027. FLNG Hilli is expected to generate an annual Adjusted EBITDA1 of approximately $300 million, plus a commodity linked element in the FLNG tariff and commodity exposure through Golar’s 10% equity stake in SESA.

    The project remains subject to defined conditions precedent (“CP”), including an export license, environmental assessment and Final Investment Decision (“FID”) by SESA. Workstreams for each CP are advancing according to schedule and are expected to be concluded within Q2 2025.

    Golar’s position as the only proven service provider of FLNG globally, our market leading capex/ton and operational uptime continues to drive interest in our FLNG solutions. The MKII under construction is now the focus of multiple commercial discussions. Advanced discussions are taking place in the Americas, West Africa, Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Once a charter is secured for the MKII under construction, we aim to FID our 4th FLNG unit. In addition to the option for a second MKII at CIMC Raffles shipyard, we are now in discussions with other capable shipyards for this potential 4th unit, focused on design, liquefaction capacity, capex/ton and delivery.

    Other/shipping: Operating revenues and costs under corporate and other items are comprised of two FSRU operate and maintain agreements in respect of the LNG Croatia and Italis LNG. The non-core shipping segment was comprised of the LNGC Golar Arctic, and Fuji LNG. During February 2025, Fuji LNG entered CIMC’s yard for her FLNG conversion and Golar Arctic was sold for $24 million. This concludes Golar’s 50-year presence in the LNG shipping business.  

    In January 2025, Golar also agreed to sell its non-core 23.4% interest in Avenir. The transaction closed in February 2025 upon receipt of $39 million of net proceeds.

    Shares and dividends: As of December 31, 2024, 104.5 million shares are issued and outstanding. Golar’s Board of Directors approved a total Q4 2024 dividend of $0.25 per share to be paid on or around March 18, 2025. The record date will be March 11, 2025.

    Financial Summary

    (in thousands of $) Q4 2024 Q4 2023 % Change YTD 2024 YTD 2023 % Change
    Net income/(loss) attributable to Golar LNG Ltd 3,349 (32,847) (110)% 49,694 (46,793) (206)%
    Total operating revenues 65,917 79,679 (17)% 260,372 298,429 (13)%
    Adjusted EBITDA 1 59,168 114,249 (48)% 240,500 355,771 (32)%
    Golar’s share of contractual debt 1 1,515,357 1,221,190 24% 1,515,357 1,221,190 24%

    Financial Review

    Business Performance:

      2024 2023
      Oct-Dec Jul-Sep Oct-Dec
    (in thousands of $) Total Total Total
    Net income/(loss)        15,037      (35,969)      (31,071)
    Income taxes            (504)              208              332
    Income/(loss) before income taxes        14,533      (35,761)      (30,739)
    Depreciation and amortization        13,642        13,628        12,794
    Impairment of long-term assets        22,933                —                —
    Unrealized loss on oil and gas derivative instruments        14,269        73,691      126,909
    Other non-operating loss          7,000                —                —
    Interest income        (9,866)        (8,902)      (11,234)
    Interest expense, net                —                —        (1,107)
    (Gains)/losses on derivative instruments        (8,711)        14,955        16,542
    Other financial items, net          1,153              470            (157)
    Net income from equity method investments          4,215              948          1,241
    Adjusted EBITDA (1)        59,168        59,029      114,249
      2024
      Oct-Dec Jul-Sep
    (in thousands of $) FLNG Corporate and other Shipping Total FLNG Corporate and other Shipping Total
    Total operating revenues      56,396         6,025         3,496      65,917      56,075         6,212         2,520      64,807
    Vessel operating expenses     (19,788)       (5,048)       (3,073)     (27,909)     (20,947)       (7,403)       (3,373)     (31,723)
    Voyage, charterhire & commission expenses              —              —          (446)          (446)              —              —          (888)          (888)
    Administrative expenses          (264)       (7,240)               (1)       (7,505)          (568)       (6,498)               (7)       (7,073)
    Project expenses       (3,624)       (1,236)              —       (4,860)       (1,249)       (1,894)              —       (3,143)
    Realized gains on oil derivative instrument (2)      33,502              —              —      33,502      37,049              —              —      37,049
    Other operating income            469              —              —            469              —              —              —              —
    Adjusted EBITDA (1)      66,691       (7,499)            (24)      59,168      70,360       (9,583)       (1,748)      59,029

    (2) The line item “Realized and unrealized (loss)/gain on oil and gas derivative instruments” in the Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Operations relates to income from the Hilli Liquefaction Tolling Agreement (“LTA”) and the natural gas derivative which is split into: “Realized gains on oil and gas derivative instruments” and “Unrealized (loss)/gain on oil and gas derivative instruments”.

      2023
      Oct-Dec
    (in thousands of $) FLNG Corporate and other Shipping Total
    Total operating revenues        72,433          5,510          1,736        79,679
    Vessel operating expenses      (16,510)        (4,765)        (2,005)      (23,280)
    Voyage, charterhire & commission (expenses)/income            (133)                —            (900)        (1,033)
    Administrative income/(expenses)                29        (7,031)                (1)        (7,003)
    Project development expenses            (958)              380              (99)            (677)
    Realized gains on oil derivative instrument        53,520                —                —        53,520
    Other operating income        13,043                —                —        13,043
    Adjusted EBITDA (1)      121,424        (5,906)        (1,269)      114,249

    Golar reports today Q4 2024 net income of $3 million, before non-controlling interests, inclusive of $29 million of non-cash items1, comprised of:

    • A $23 million impairment of LNG carrier, Golar Arctic;
    • TTF and Brent oil unrealized mark-to-market (“MTM”) losses of $14 million; and
    • A $8 million MTM gain on interest rate swaps.

    The Brent oil linked component of FLNG Hilli’s fees generates additional annual cash of approximately $3.1 million for every dollar increase in Brent Crude prices between $60 per barrel and the contractual ceiling. Billing of this component is based on a three-month look-back at average Brent Crude prices. During Q4, we recognized a total of $34 million of realized gains on FLNG Hilli’s oil and gas derivative instruments, comprised of a: 

    • $14 million realized gain on the Brent oil linked derivative instrument;
    • $12 million realized gain on the hedged component of the quarter’s TTF linked fees; and
    • $8 million realized gain in respect of fees for the TTF linked production.

    Further, we recognized a total of $14 million of non-cash losses in relation to FLNG Hilli’s oil and gas derivative assets, with corresponding changes in fair value in its constituent parts recognized on our unaudited consolidated statement of operations as follows:

    • $12 million loss on the economically hedged portion of the Q4 TTF linked FLNG production; and 
    • $2 million loss on the Brent oil linked derivative asset.

    Balance Sheet and Liquidity:

    As of December 31, 2024, Total Golar Cash1 was $699 million, comprised of $566 million of cash and cash equivalents and $133 million of restricted cash. 

    Golar’s share of Contractual Debt1 as of December 31, 2024 is $1,515 million. Deducting Total Golar Cash1 of $699 million from Golar’s share of Contractual Debt1 leaves a debt position net of Total Golar Cash of $816 million. 

    Assets under development amounts to $2.2 billion, comprised of $1.7 billion in respect of FLNG Gimi and $0.5 billion in respect of the MKII. The carrying value of LNG carrier Fuji LNG, currently included under Vessels and equipment, net will be transferred to Assets under development in Q1, 2025.

    Following agreement by the consortium of lenders who provide the current $700 million FLNG Gimi facility, Golar drew down the final $70 million tranche of this facility in November 2024. Of the $1.7 billion FLNG Gimi investment as of December 31, 2024, inclusive of $297 million of capitalized financing costs, $700 million was funded by the current debt facility. Both the FLNG Gimi investment and outstanding Gimi debt are reported on a 100% basis. All capital expenditure in connection with the 100% owned MK II is equity funded. 

    Non-GAAP measures

    In addition to disclosing financial results in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (US GAAP), this earnings release and the associated investor presentation contains references to the non-GAAP financial measures which are included in the table below. We believe these non-GAAP financial measures provide investors with useful supplemental information about the financial performance of our business, enable comparison of financial results between periods where certain items may vary independent of business performance, and allow for greater transparency with respect to key metrics used by management in operating our business and measuring our performance.

    This report also contains certain forward-looking non-GAAP measures for which we are unable to provide a reconciliation to the most comparable GAAP financial measures because certain information needed to reconcile those non-GAAP measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measures is dependent on future events some of which are outside of our control, such as oil and gas prices and exchange rates, as such items may be significant. Non-GAAP measures in respect of future events which cannot be reconciled to the most comparable GAAP financial measure are calculated in a manner which is consistent with the accounting policies applied to Golar’s unaudited consolidated financial statements.

    These non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, financial measures and financial results calculated in accordance with GAAP. Non-GAAP measures are not uniformly defined by all companies and may not be comparable with similarly titled measures and disclosures used by other companies. The reconciliations as at December 31, 2024 and for the year ended December 31, 2024, from these results should be carefully evaluated.

    Non-GAAP measure Closest equivalent US GAAP measure Adjustments to reconcile to primary financial statements prepared under US GAAP Rationale for adjustments
    Performance measures
    Adjusted EBITDA Net income/(loss)  +/- Income taxes
    + Depreciation and amortization
    + Impairment of long-lived assets
    +/- Unrealized (gain)/loss on oil and gas derivative instruments
    +/- Other non-operating (income)/losses
    +/- Net financial (income)/expense
    +/- Net (income)/losses from equity method investments
    +/- Net loss/(income) from discontinued operations
    Increases the comparability of total business performance from period to period and against the performance of other companies by excluding the results of our equity investments, removing the impact of unrealized movements on embedded derivatives, depreciation, impairment charge, financing costs, tax items and discontinued operations.
    Distributable Adjusted EBITDA Net income/(loss)  +/- Income taxes
    + Depreciation and amortization
    + Impairment of long-lived assets
    +/- Unrealized (gain)/loss on oil and gas derivative instruments
    +/- Other non-operating (income)/losses
    +/- Net financial (income)/expense
    +/- Net (income)/losses from equity method investments
    +/- Net loss/(income) from discontinued operations
    – Amortization of deferred commissioning period revenue
    – Amortization of Day 1 gains
    – Accrued overproduction revenue
    + Overproduction revenue received
    – Accrued underutilization adjustment
    Increases the comparability of our operational FLNG Hilli from period to period and against the performance of other companies by removing the non-distributable income of FLNG Hilli, project development costs, the operating costs of the Gandria (prior to her disposal) and FLNG Gimi.
    Liquidity measures
    Contractual debt 1 Total debt (current and non-current), net of deferred finance charges  +/-Variable Interest Entity (“VIE”) consolidation adjustments
    +/-Deferred finance charges
    During the year, we consolidate a lessor VIE for our Hilli sale and leaseback facility. This means that on consolidation, our contractual debt is eliminated and replaced with the lessor VIE debt.

    Contractual debt represents our debt obligations under our various financing arrangements before consolidating the lessor VIE.

    The measure enables investors and users of our financial statements to assess our liquidity, identify the split of our debt (current and non-current) based on our underlying contractual obligations and aid comparability with our competitors.

    Adjusted net debt Adjusted net debt based on
    GAAP measures:
    -Total debt (current and
    non-current), net of
    deferred finance
    charges
    – Cash and cash
    equivalents
    – Restricted cash and
    short-term deposits
    (current and non-current)
    – Other current assets (Receivable from TTF linked commodity swap derivatives)
    Total debt (current and non-current), net of:
    +Deferred finance charges
    +Cash and cash equivalents
    +Restricted cash and short-term deposits (current and non-current)
    +/-VIE consolidation adjustments
    +Receivable from TTF linked commodity swap derivatives
    The measure enables investors and users of our financial statements to assess our liquidity based on our underlying contractual obligations and aids comparability with our competitors.
    Total Golar Cash Golar cash based on GAAP measures:

    + Cash and cash equivalents

    + Restricted cash and short-term deposits (current and non-current)

    -VIE restricted cash and short-term deposits We consolidate a lessor VIE for our sale and leaseback facility. This means that on consolidation, we include restricted cash held by the lessor VIE.

    Total Golar Cash represents our cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and short-term deposits (current and non-current) before consolidating the lessor VIE.

    Management believe that this measure enables investors and users of our financial statements to assess our liquidity and aids comparability with our competitors.

    (1) Please refer to reconciliation below for Golar’s share of Contractual Debt

    Adjusted EBITDA backlog: This is a non-GAAP financial measure and represents the share of contracted fee income for executed contracts or definitive agreements less forecasted operating expenses for these contracts/agreements. Adjusted EBITDA backlog should not be considered as an alternative to net income / (loss) or any other measure of our financial performance calculated in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

    Non-cash items: Non-cash items comprised of impairment of long-lived assets, release of prior year contract underutilization liability, mark-to-market (“MTM”) movements on our TTF and Brent oil linked derivatives, listed equity securities and interest rate swaps (“IRS”) which relate to the unrealized component of the gains/(losses) on oil and gas derivative instruments, unrealized MTM (losses)/gains on investment in listed equity securities and gains on derivative instruments, net, in our unaudited consolidated statement of operations.

    Abbreviations used:

    FLNG: Floating Liquefaction Natural Gas vessel
    FSRU: Floating Storage and Regasification Unit
    MKII FLNG: Mark II FLNG
    FPSO: Floating Production, Storage and Offloading unit

    MMBtu: Million British Thermal Units
    mtpa: Million Tons Per Annum

    Reconciliations – Liquidity Measures

    Total Golar Cash

    (in thousands of $) December 31, 2024 September 30, 2024 December 31, 2023
    Cash and cash equivalents           566,384           732,062           679,225
    Restricted cash and short-term deposits (current and non-current)           150,198             92,025             92,245
    Less: VIE restricted cash and short-term deposits            (17,472)            (17,463)            (18,085)
    Total Golar Cash           699,110           806,624           753,385

    Contractual Debt and Adjusted Net Debt

    (in thousands of $) December 31, 2024 September 30, 2024 December 31, 2023
    Total debt (current and non-current) net of deferred finance charges        1,451,110        1,422,399        1,216,730
    VIE consolidation adjustments           242,811           233,964           202,219
    Deferred finance charges             22,686             24,480             23,851
    Total Contractual Debt        1,716,607        1,680,843        1,442,800
    Less: Keppel’s and B&V’s share of the FLNG Hilli contractual debt                     —            (30,884)            (32,610)
    Less: Keppel’s share of the Gimi debt         (201,250)         (184,625)         (189,000)
    Golar’s share of Contractual Debt        1,515,357        1,465,334        1,221,190
    Less: Total Golar Cash         (699,110)         (806,625)         (753,385)
    Less: Receivables from the remaining unwinding of TTF hedges                     —            (12,360)            (57,020)
    Golar’s Adjusted Net Debt           816,247           646,349           410,785

    Please see Appendix A for a capital repayment profile for Golar’s contractual debt.

    Forward Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements (as defined in Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) which reflects management’s current expectations, estimates and projections about its operations. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, that address activities and events that will, should, could or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Words such as “if,” “subject to,” “believe,” “assuming,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “project,” “plan,” “potential,” “will,” “may,” “should,” “expect,” “could,” “would,” “predict,” “propose,” “continue,” or the negative of these terms and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are based upon various assumptions, many of which are based, in turn, upon further assumptions, including without limitation, management’s examination of historical operating trends, data contained in our records and other data available from third parties. Although we believe that these assumptions were reasonable when made, because these assumptions are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies which are difficult or impossible to predict and are beyond our control, we cannot assure you that we will achieve or accomplish these expectations, beliefs or projections. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecasted in such forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. Unless legally required, Golar undertakes no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Other important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include but are not limited to:

    • our ability and that of our counterparty to meet our respective obligations under the 20-year lease and operate agreement (the “LOA”) with BP Mauritania Investments Limited, a subsidiary of BP p.l.c (“bp”), entered into in connection with the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim Project (the “GTA Project”), including the commissioning and start-up of various project infrastructure. Delays could result in incremental costs to both parties to the LOA, delay floating liquefaction natural gas vessel (“FLNG”) commissioning works and the start of operations for our FLNG Gimi (“FLNG Gimi”);
    • our ability to meet our obligations under our commercial agreements, including the liquefaction tolling agreement (the “LTA”) entered into in connection with the FLNG Hilli Episeyo (“FLNG Hilli”);
    • our ability to meet our obligations with Southern Energy S.A. SESA in connection with the recently signed agreement on FLNG deployment in Argentina, and SESAs ability to meet its obligations with us;
    • the ability to secure a suitable contract for the MK II within the expected timeframe, including the impact of project capital expenditures, foreign exchange fluctuations, and commodity price volatility on investment returns and potential changes in market conditions affecting deployment opportunities;
    • changes in our ability to obtain additional financing or refinance existing debts on acceptable terms or at all, or to secure a listing for our 2024 Unsecured Bonds;
    • Global economic trends, competition, and geopolitical risks, including U.S. government actions, trade tensions or conflicts such as between the U.S. and China, related sanctions, a potential Russia-Ukraine peace settlement and its potential impact on LNG supply and demand;
    • a material decline or prolonged weakness in tolling rates for FLNGs;
    • failure of shipyards to comply with schedules, performance specifications or agreed prices;
    • failure of our contract counterparties to comply with their agreements with us or other key project stakeholders;
    • increased tax liabilities in the jurisdictions where we are currently operating or expect to operate;
    • continuing volatility in the global financial markets, including but not limited to commodity prices, foreign exchange rates and interest rates;
    • changes in general domestic and international political conditions, particularly where we operate, or where we seek to operate;
    • changes in our ability to retrofit vessels as FLNGs, including the availability of vessels to purchase and in the time it takes to build new vessels or convert existing vessels;
    • continuing uncertainty resulting from potential future claims from our counterparties of purported force majeure (“FM”) under contractual arrangements, including but not limited to our future projects and other contracts to which we are a party;
    • our ability to close potential future transactions in relation to equity interests in our vessels or to monetize our remaining equity method investments on a timely basis or at all;
    • increases in operating costs as a result of inflation, including but not limited to salaries and wages, insurance, crew provisions, repairs and maintenance, spares and redeployment related modification costs;
    • claims made or losses incurred in connection with our continuing obligations with regard to New Fortress Energy Inc. (“NFE”), Energos Infrastructure Holdings Finance LLC (“Energos”), Cool Company Ltd (“CoolCo”) and Snam S.p.A. (“Snam”);
    • the ability of Energos, CoolCo and Snam to meet their respective obligations to us, including indemnification obligations;
    • changes to rules and regulations applicable to FLNGs or other parts of the natural gas and LNG supply chain;
    • changes to rules on climate-related disclosures as required by the European Union or the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”), including but not limited to disclosure of certain climate-related risks and financial impacts, as well as greenhouse gas emissions;
    • actions taken by regulatory authorities that may prohibit the access of FLNGs to various ports and locations; and
    • other factors listed from time to time in registration statements, reports or other materials that we have filed with or furnished to the Commission, including our annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the Commission on March 28, 2024 (the “2023 Annual Report”).

    As a result, you are cautioned not to rely on any forward-looking statements. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise unless required by law.

    Responsibility Statement

    We confirm that, to the best of our knowledge, the unaudited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States give a true and fair view of Golar’s unaudited consolidated assets, liabilities, financial position and results of operations. To the best of our knowledge, the report for the year ended December 31, 2024, includes a fair review of important events that have occurred during the period and their impact on the unaudited consolidated financial statements, the principal risks and uncertainties and major related party transactions.

    Our actual results for the quarter and year ended December 31, 2024 will not be available until after this press release is furnished and may differ from these estimates. The preliminary financial information presented herein should not be considered a substitute for the financial information to be filed with the SEC in our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2024 once it becomes available. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance upon these preliminary financial results.

    February 27, 2025
    The Board of Directors
    Golar LNG Limited
    Hamilton, Bermuda
    Investor Questions: +44 207 063 7900
    Karl Fredrik Staubo – CEO
    Eduardo Maranhão – CFO

    Stuart Buchanan – Head of Investor Relations

    Tor Olav Trøim (Chairman of the Board)
    Dan Rabun (Director)
    Thorleif Egeli (Director)
    Carl Steen (Director)
    Niels Stolt-Nielsen (Director)
    Lori Wheeler Naess (Director)
    Georgina Sousa (Director)

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Central Bank of Savings Banks Finland Plc: Mervi Luurila appointed as CEO of the Central Bank of Savings Banks Finland Plc 

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Central Bank of Savings Banks Finland Plc
    Stock Exchange Release 
     27 February 2025 at 2:00 pm

    The Board of Central Bank of Savings Banks Finland Plc has appointed Mervi Luurila (Product owner, Clearing and Finance) as CEO of Central Bank of Savings Banks Finland Plc. Mervi Luurila has worked at The Savings Banks Group since 2013. She has over 20 years of experience in domestic and Nordic specialist and senior management positions in the finance sector. Appointment takes place 1st of April 2025.

    Kai Brander, that has been the CEO of the Central Bank of Savings Banks Finland Plc since 2018 will be retiring on the 1st of June 2025.

    CENTRAL BANK OF SAVINGS BANKS FINLAND PLC 

    Additional information: 

    Samu Rouhe
    Chairman of the Board, Central Bank of Savings Banks Finland Plc
    +358 50 348 4341    

    Central Bank of Savings Banks Finland Plc belongs to the Savings Banks Amalgamation. The role of the Central Bank of Savings Banks Finland Plc is to ensure the liquidity and borrowing activities of the Savings Banks Group. It acquires funds and operates in the money markets and capital markets on behalf of the Group as well as manages payment transfers. The Central Bank also manages the internal balancing of the Group’s liquidity.

    The MIL Network