Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s basic medical insurance covers 95 pct of population

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

    BEIJING, July 24 — During the 2021-2025 period, China’s basic medical insurance has maintained a coverage rate of around 95 percent, with over 1.32 billion people enrolled in 2024, according to the National Healthcare Security Administration.

    Zhang Ke, head of the administration, unveiled the data at a press conference on Thursday.

    From 2021 to 2024, nearly 20 billion medical visits received insurance reimbursements, Zhang said, noting that the number in 2024 was 1.6 times higher than in 2020.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: China boosts medical insurance spending on innovative drugs

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

    BEIJING, July 24 — During the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), China’s medical insurance spending on drugs newly included in the negotiations list, or the innovative drugs, grew significantly, increasing by 40 percent annually, an official from the National Healthcare Security Administration said on Thursday.

    In 2024, related spending reached 3.9 times the amount recorded in 2020, Zhang Ke, head of the administration, told a press conference.

    During this period, medical insurance fund expenditures totaled 12.13 trillion yuan (about 1.7 trillion U.S. dollars), growing at an average annual rate of 9.1 percent, Zhang said.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: China takes strong measures to ensure affordable medicines during 14th Five-Year Plan period

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

    China takes strong measures to ensure affordable medicines during 14th Five-Year Plan period

    BEIJING, July 24 — During the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), China’s medical insurance authority adopted multiple measures to ensure reasonable pricing of medicines, a senior Chinese official said Thursday.

    Shi Zihai, deputy head of the National Healthcare Security Administration (NHSA), introduced the measures at a press conference held by the State Council Information Office.

    Since 2018, the country has carried out 10 rounds of centralized medicine procurement, covering 435 medicines, Shi said. He noted that the centralized procurement program has been an effective means to curb the overpricing of medicines, has significantly eased the people’s burden in receiving medication, and improved the quality and accessibility of medicines.

    The NHSA also actively handled cases of irregular drug pricing and urged pharmaceutical companies to rectify their practices. To date, the administration has issued notices to 566 companies, requiring price adjustments for 726 medicines across various specifications.

    In addition, the NHSA implemented measures to regulate medicine prices both online and at physical drugstores, Shi said.

    The official noted that some pharmaceutical companies abused their pricing autonomy and disrupted market order through practices such as offering kickbacks, monopolizing the market, and controlling sales.

    He said that while the NHSA resolutely supports high-quality medical innovation and respects the autonomy of companies in setting drug prices, it has also taken a stronger role in managing medicine pricing and maintaining market order.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Hugo Ekitike: Liverpool sign Frankfurt striker

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

    Premier League champion Liverpool continued a big-spending summer with the signing of striker Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt for an initial fee of 79 million pounds (106 million US dollars).

    “We have reached an agreement for the transfer of Eintracht Frankfurt forward Hugo Ekitike, subject to international clearance,” announced Liverpool’s social media sites on Wednesday.

    Hugo Ekitike (R) of Eintracht Frankfurt vies with Cristian Romero of Tottenham Hotspur during the UEFA Europa League quarterfinals 2nd leg match in Frankfurt, Germany, April 17, 2025. (Photo by Ulrich Hufnagel/Xinhua)

    “The 23-year-old has successfully completed a medical and agreed personal terms with the Reds, allowing him to fly out to Hong Kong to join his new teammates on their preseason tour of Asia later this week,” the club added.

    Ekitike is the fourth major signing of the summer for Arne Slot’s side, following the capture of Florian Wirtz for over 110 million pounds and defenders Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong.

    The 23-year-old Frenchman, who can play across the front line, joins Anfield after scoring 22 goals in 48 appearances last season, along with more than a dozen assists.

    Liverpool has spent over 250 million pounds this summer, although they are likely to recoup some of that if Luis Diaz completes a move to Bayern Munich in a deal worth more than 60 million pounds. Darwin Nunez also appears likely to leave, and Federico Chiesa has been left out of Liverpool’s preseason squad for the Asia tour, suggesting he may also be on his way out. 

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Barcelona confirm Marcus Rashford loan signing

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

    FC Barcelona confirmed the loan signing of England international forward Marcus Rashford from Manchester United on Wednesday with a video in which the player said the news was “official.”

    Rashford joins the La Liga and Copa del Rey champion on an initial one-season loan, with Barcelona having the option to make the move permanent for around 35 million euros. However, there is also a clause that means the club has to pay compensation if it opts against this.

    Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford (L) breaks through during the FA Cup quarterfinal match between Manchester United and Liverpool in Manchester, Britain, on March 17, 2024. (Xinhua)

    “What the club stands for means a lot for me. I feel like I am at home and a big factor in my choice to come here because it is a family place and a good place for good players to showcase their skills,” said Rashford at his presentation.

    “To be here is everything I wished and thought. I’m eager to get going and keep learning the Barcelona way as I go and be ready for the games,” he continued, adding that the chance to work with Barca coach Hansi Flick was another key reason for his decision.

    “What he did last season was terrific. In his career he’s proved he’s one of the top coaches, to lead such a young team to a very successful season,” commented the forward.

    The 27-year-old, who passed his medical tests in Barcelona on Monday, is rumored to have taken a 15 percent pay cut in order to complete the move after falling out of favor with United coach Ruben Amorim last season and spending the second half of the campaign on loan at Aston Villa.

    He will now form part of the squad that travels to Asia on Thursday to play matches in both South Korea and Japan.

    Rashford’s signing at Barcelona comes after the club suffered an embarrassing failure to sign Spain international Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao for the second consecutive summer, with Williams opting to sign a new contract with Athletic.

    Meanwhile, efforts to bring in Colombian winger Luis Diaz were frustrated by Barca’s economic situation, which made it impossible for the club to get close to Liverpool’s demands.

    Rashford becomes the first English player to join FC Barcelona since Gary Lineker was at the club between 1986-1989 and only the second Englishman to play for them in over 100 years, with Harold Stamper the last previous Englishman after a season at Barcelona between 1922 and 1923.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Poland edge China to reach Women’s VNL semifinals

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

    Host Poland battled past China in a thrilling five-set quarterfinal, winning 17-25, 25-20, 19-25, 25-19, 15-12 in the FIVB Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) on Wednesday evening in Lodz to secure a spot in the semifinals.

    Opposite hitter Magdalena Stysiak led the Polish side with 25 points, including 22 kills and three blocks. Outside hitter Martyna Czyrnianska added 16 points. For China, outside hitter Wu Mengjie delivered an impressive performance with a match-high 25 points, while Zhuang Yushan added 20.

    Coming off a 3-1 victory over China in a friendly on Saturday, Poland entered the match as slight favorites. However, it was China who came out strong in the opening set, fueled by Wu’s sharp attacks. She scored 10 points in the set, helping China establish a 19-14 lead before closing it out 25-17.

    China continued their momentum early in the second set, taking a 5-2 advantage after a spike from Chen Houyu. But Poland rallied back, drawing level at 14-14 thanks to a powerful attack from Martyna Lukasik. Momentum shifted in favor of the hosts as Czyrnianska registered a key block and Stysiak added timely offense to push Poland ahead. Lukasik sealed the set with back-to-back spikes, giving Poland a 25-20 win.

    In the third set, China capitalized on a string of unforced errors from Poland to race ahead 13-5. Maintaining their advantage throughout, China regained the lead in sets with a 25-19 win.

    The fourth set saw Poland respond with renewed energy. Paulina Damaske’s spike and service ace helped the home team build an 18-12 cushion. Although China fought back to narrow the gap to 21-19, Poland surged with four straight points to take the set 25-19, forcing a decider.

    In the tiebreak, Poland met the expectations of their home crowd at Atlas Arena. A block from Stysiak and another strong finish from Damaske gave them a 7-4 lead. Though China closed the deficit to 10-9 after a Stysiak error, Damaske delivered a key solo block to make it 13-10 and later sealed the match with a powerful spike, clinching the final set 15-12.

    “It was a tough challenge. We struggled during the match, so we’re very happy with the victory,” said Polish setter Alicja Grabka in a post-match interview with Polsat TV. “We overcame a difficult situation as we were behind. For me, playing in that kind of match was a dream come true. I’m very proud I could help the team.”

    Earlier in the day, Italy advanced to the semifinals after sweeping the United States 3-0 (25-22, 25-21, 28-26). Opposite spiker Paola Egonu starred with a match-high 20 points, while Avery Skinner led the Americans with 11.

    The remaining quarterfinal matchups will take place on Thursday, with Japan facing Turkiye and Brazil taking on Germany.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI: INVL Renewable Energy Fund I company REFI Sun aims to raise up to EUR 15 million in public bond offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The INVL Renewable Energy Fund I managed by INVL Asset Management, the leading alternative asset manager in the Baltics, is seeking to raise up to EUR 15 million through an offering of bonds issued by REFI Sun, a company the fund owns. The bonds will be offered publicly to retail and institutional investors in the Baltic countries from 28 July to 15 August. 

    The bonds have a maturity of 2.5 years. The fixed interest rate on the debt securities will be set in the range of 7.5% to 8.5% and announced at completion of the offering. Interest will be paid to investors quarterly. The INVL Renewable Energy Fund I will provide guarantees to all holders of the REFI Sun bonds. 

    “Construction of the fund’s renewable energy projects in Romania and Poland is gaining momentum, so there is also a growing need for financing, which in part we aim to meet by issuing new bonds. Most of the money raised from investors will be used to refinance a loan previously obtained by one of the fund’s companies, the rest will go to the fund’s solar power plant construction projects,” says Liudas Liutkevičius, Managing Partner of the INVL Renewable Energy Fund I. 

    REFI Sun seeks to raise up to EUR 15 million in a public offer in Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia under a base prospectus for EUR 25 million bond programme approved by the Bank of Lithuania. The minimum investment amount is EUR 1,000.  

    The lead arranger of the bond program is Artea Bank. Evernord will also participate in the placement in Lithuania, while LHV Pank and Signet Bank acting as distribution partners in Estonia and Latvia. The certified advisor to the issuer is the Sorainen law firm, while the bondholders’ trustee is the company Audifina. It is planned that the debt securities will be listed on the First North alternative securities market operated by Nasdaq Vilnius within three months after the issue date. 

    More information about the bond issue and the offering process is available on the website of the INVL Renewable Energy Fund I. 

    An online presentation and question-and-answer session for investors (in English) will be held on 31 July at 10:00. The link to join the session is here. An online presentation and Q&A session for investors in the Lithuanian language will be held on the same day at 14:00; the link to join that session is here.    

    In February 2025, the INVL Renewable Energy Fund I’s company REFI Energy successfully completed an EUR 8 million public offering of bonds with an annual interest rate of 8%. Demand for the bonds exceeded the issue size 1.7 times, demonstrating strong investor confidence in the Fund’s management team and strategy.   

    The INVL Renewable Energy Fund I is focusing on the Polish and Romanian markets, where the fund’s managers see big growth potential. Total capacity of the fund’s portfolio of projects in development in these markets is 389 MW. 

    In Romania, the fund is investing in projects for 8 solar plants with a combined capacity of 356 MW. In Poland, it is developing solar park projects with over 32 MW in capacity. Investments in  Romania and Poland are expected to exceed EUR 250 million. The fund has invested over EUR 90 million in acquisition and construction of the projects as of June 2025. Construction of all the solar parks should be completed by the end of 2027. 

    To date the INVL Renewable Energy Fund I has raised EUR 73.9 million from investors through investment units and bonds. 

    About the INVL Renewable Energy Fund I  

    The INVL Renewable Energy Fund I was established on 20 July 2021 by INVL Asset Management, the leading alternative asset manager in the Baltic States, as a sub-fund for informed investors. It invests in early- and mid-stage renewable energy projects (solar), including the construction of new power plants, the development and/or acquisition of the infrastructure necessary for the operation of power plants, and effective management of existing power plants in the European Union and member states of the European Economic Area. 

    INVL Asset Management is part of Invalda INVL, the leading Baltic asset management group. 

    Further information:
    Liudas Liutkevičius
    Managing Partner of the INVL Renewable Energy Fund I
    liudas.liutkevicius@invl.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: INVL Renewable Energy Fund I company REFI Sun aims to raise up to EUR 15 million in public bond offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The INVL Renewable Energy Fund I managed by INVL Asset Management, the leading alternative asset manager in the Baltics, is seeking to raise up to EUR 15 million through an offering of bonds issued by REFI Sun, a company the fund owns. The bonds will be offered publicly to retail and institutional investors in the Baltic countries from 28 July to 15 August. 

    The bonds have a maturity of 2.5 years. The fixed interest rate on the debt securities will be set in the range of 7.5% to 8.5% and announced at completion of the offering. Interest will be paid to investors quarterly. The INVL Renewable Energy Fund I will provide guarantees to all holders of the REFI Sun bonds. 

    “Construction of the fund’s renewable energy projects in Romania and Poland is gaining momentum, so there is also a growing need for financing, which in part we aim to meet by issuing new bonds. Most of the money raised from investors will be used to refinance a loan previously obtained by one of the fund’s companies, the rest will go to the fund’s solar power plant construction projects,” says Liudas Liutkevičius, Managing Partner of the INVL Renewable Energy Fund I. 

    REFI Sun seeks to raise up to EUR 15 million in a public offer in Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia under a base prospectus for EUR 25 million bond programme approved by the Bank of Lithuania. The minimum investment amount is EUR 1,000.  

    The lead arranger of the bond program is Artea Bank. Evernord will also participate in the placement in Lithuania, while LHV Pank and Signet Bank acting as distribution partners in Estonia and Latvia. The certified advisor to the issuer is the Sorainen law firm, while the bondholders’ trustee is the company Audifina. It is planned that the debt securities will be listed on the First North alternative securities market operated by Nasdaq Vilnius within three months after the issue date. 

    More information about the bond issue and the offering process is available on the website of the INVL Renewable Energy Fund I. 

    An online presentation and question-and-answer session for investors (in English) will be held on 31 July at 10:00. The link to join the session is here. An online presentation and Q&A session for investors in the Lithuanian language will be held on the same day at 14:00; the link to join that session is here.    

    In February 2025, the INVL Renewable Energy Fund I’s company REFI Energy successfully completed an EUR 8 million public offering of bonds with an annual interest rate of 8%. Demand for the bonds exceeded the issue size 1.7 times, demonstrating strong investor confidence in the Fund’s management team and strategy.   

    The INVL Renewable Energy Fund I is focusing on the Polish and Romanian markets, where the fund’s managers see big growth potential. Total capacity of the fund’s portfolio of projects in development in these markets is 389 MW. 

    In Romania, the fund is investing in projects for 8 solar plants with a combined capacity of 356 MW. In Poland, it is developing solar park projects with over 32 MW in capacity. Investments in  Romania and Poland are expected to exceed EUR 250 million. The fund has invested over EUR 90 million in acquisition and construction of the projects as of June 2025. Construction of all the solar parks should be completed by the end of 2027. 

    To date the INVL Renewable Energy Fund I has raised EUR 73.9 million from investors through investment units and bonds. 

    About the INVL Renewable Energy Fund I  

    The INVL Renewable Energy Fund I was established on 20 July 2021 by INVL Asset Management, the leading alternative asset manager in the Baltic States, as a sub-fund for informed investors. It invests in early- and mid-stage renewable energy projects (solar), including the construction of new power plants, the development and/or acquisition of the infrastructure necessary for the operation of power plants, and effective management of existing power plants in the European Union and member states of the European Economic Area. 

    INVL Asset Management is part of Invalda INVL, the leading Baltic asset management group. 

    Further information:
    Liudas Liutkevičius
    Managing Partner of the INVL Renewable Energy Fund I
    liudas.liutkevicius@invl.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: cBrain positioned as first-mover supporting new U.S. standards for environmental permitting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release no. 6/2025

    cBrain positioned as first-mover supporting new U.S. standards for environmental permitting

    Copenhagen, July 24, 2025

    cBrain (NASDAQ: CBRAIN) today announced that the cBrain F2 Permitting Solution supports the newly established U.S. federal standards for environmental permitting, as defined by the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ). cBrain believes it is among the very first vendors to support the new CEQ standards.

    In collaboration with the Danish Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), cBrain has developed a fully digital permitting solution based on the cBrain F2 platform. This solution replaces traditional paper-based applications, reduces case processing times, and enhances both quality and transparency.

    As the importance of environmental assessment and permitting grows globally, governments are increasingly requiring robust review and approval processes for infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, mines, factories, and power plants. This trend creates a significant market opportunity for cBrain.

    Earlier this year, as part of its expanded growth strategy, cBrain identified environmental permitting as a key international vertical. The company aims to establish a leading global position in this market with its cBrain F2 Environmental Permitting solution.

    To support international scaling, cBrain has formed a dedicated team focused on exporting the F2 Environmental Permitting solution and views environmental permitting as a strategic entry point into the U.S. market.

    In April 2025, the White House issued an Executive Order directing all federal agencies to adopt digital technologies to streamline environmental permitting. 30 days later, the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) released their Permitting Technology Action Plan and introduced a new set of federal data standards for digital permitting systems.

    cBrain has rapidly configured its F2 Environmental Permitting solution to align with these standards and, in July 2025, demonstrated the adapted solution to U.S. federal authorities in Washington, D.C.

    This early alignment provides a first-mover advantage and cBrain is experiencing an increased interest in its permitting technology as federal and state agencies are seeking to provide answers to political demand for faster permitting through digital modernization.

    Best regards

    Per Tejs Knudsen, CEO

    Inquiries regarding this Press Release may be directed to 

    Ejvind Jørgensen, CFO & Head of Investor Relations, cBrain A/S, ir@cbrain.com, +45 2594 4973

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: cBrain positioned as first-mover supporting new U.S. standards for environmental permitting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release no. 6/2025

    cBrain positioned as first-mover supporting new U.S. standards for environmental permitting

    Copenhagen, July 24, 2025

    cBrain (NASDAQ: CBRAIN) today announced that the cBrain F2 Permitting Solution supports the newly established U.S. federal standards for environmental permitting, as defined by the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ). cBrain believes it is among the very first vendors to support the new CEQ standards.

    In collaboration with the Danish Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), cBrain has developed a fully digital permitting solution based on the cBrain F2 platform. This solution replaces traditional paper-based applications, reduces case processing times, and enhances both quality and transparency.

    As the importance of environmental assessment and permitting grows globally, governments are increasingly requiring robust review and approval processes for infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, mines, factories, and power plants. This trend creates a significant market opportunity for cBrain.

    Earlier this year, as part of its expanded growth strategy, cBrain identified environmental permitting as a key international vertical. The company aims to establish a leading global position in this market with its cBrain F2 Environmental Permitting solution.

    To support international scaling, cBrain has formed a dedicated team focused on exporting the F2 Environmental Permitting solution and views environmental permitting as a strategic entry point into the U.S. market.

    In April 2025, the White House issued an Executive Order directing all federal agencies to adopt digital technologies to streamline environmental permitting. 30 days later, the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) released their Permitting Technology Action Plan and introduced a new set of federal data standards for digital permitting systems.

    cBrain has rapidly configured its F2 Environmental Permitting solution to align with these standards and, in July 2025, demonstrated the adapted solution to U.S. federal authorities in Washington, D.C.

    This early alignment provides a first-mover advantage and cBrain is experiencing an increased interest in its permitting technology as federal and state agencies are seeking to provide answers to political demand for faster permitting through digital modernization.

    Best regards

    Per Tejs Knudsen, CEO

    Inquiries regarding this Press Release may be directed to 

    Ejvind Jørgensen, CFO & Head of Investor Relations, cBrain A/S, ir@cbrain.com, +45 2594 4973

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Historic ruling finds climate change ‘imperils all forms of life’ and puts laggard nations on notice

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Jacqueline Peel, Professor of Law and Director, Melbourne Climate Futures, The University of Melbourne

    Hilaire Bule/Getty

    Climate change “imperils all forms of life” and countries must tackle the problem or face consequences under international law, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has found.

    The court delivered its long-awaited advisory opinion overnight. The momentous case opens the door for countries impacted by climate disasters to sue major emitting countries for reparations.

    And citizens could seek to hold governments to account for a failure to safeguard their human rights if their own or other countries fail to take adequate action to ensure a safe climate.

    Here’s what the court ruled – and the global ramifications likely to flow from it.

    Vanuatu’s Climate Change Minister Ralph Regenvanu delivers a speech at a demonstration before the International Court of Justice issued its first advisory opinion on state’s legal obligations to address climate change.
    John Thys/AFP

    Climate change breaches human rights

    The ICJ case was instigated by law students at the University of the South Pacific in Vanuatu in 2019. They successfully launched a campaign for the court to examine two key issues: the obligations of countries to protect the climate from greenhouse gases, and the legal consequences for failing to do so.

    The court found a clean, healthy and sustainable environment is essential for the enjoyment of many other human rights. As such, it found, the full enjoyment of human rights cannot be ensured without the protection of the climate system and other parts of the environment.

    The ruling confirms climate change is much more than a legal problem. Rather, the justices concluded, it is an:

    existential problem of planetary proportions that imperils all forms of life and the very health of our planet.

    Most nations have signed up to global human rights agreements such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The ICJ ruling means parties to those agreements must take measures to protect the climate system and other parts of the environment.

    An advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice is not legally binding. But it is an authoritative description of the state of the law and the rights of countries to seek reparations if the law is breached. As such, it carries great legal weight.

    Just as climate science assessments of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change have become the gold standard for understanding the causes and impacts of climate change, the court’s ruling provides a clear baseline against which to assess countries’ action, or inaction, on climate change.

    Keeping 1.5°C alive?

    In recent years, many states’ emissions reduction targets under the Paris Agreement have seemed to “settle” at levels which would hold global temperature increases to 2°C at best.

    But the International Court of Justice ruled the much more ambitious 1.5°C goal had become the scientifically based consensus target under the Paris Agreement.

    Some countries argued formal emissions targets should be left to the discretion of each government. However, the court found against this. Rather, each nation’s targets had to be in line with – and make an adequate contribution to – the global goal of holding heating to 1.5°C.

    The court found each state’s emissions reduction pledges should be judged against a stringent “due diligence” standard. The standard takes into account each country’s historical contributions to emissions, level of development and national circumstances, among other factors.

    The ruling means rich countries, such as Australia, will be required under international law to make more ambitious emission-reduction pledges under the Paris Agreement, such as for the 2035 target currently under consideration by the Albanese government.

    The court decision also provides a measure of climate justice for small island states, which have historically low emissions but face a much higher risk of damage from climate change than other nations.

    Holding states accountable for inaction

    Because climate change is global, it is difficult – but not impossible – to attribute damage from extreme weather to the actions of any one nation or group of nations.

    On this question, the court said while climate change is caused by the cumulative impact of many human activities, it is scientifically possible to determine each nation’s total contribution to global emissions, taking into account both historical and current emissions.

    If a nation experiences damage caused by the failure of another nation, or group of nations, to fulfil international climate obligations, the ruling means legal proceedings may be launched against the nations causing the harm. It may result in compensation or other remedies.

    For small, climate-vulnerable nations such as those in the Alliance of Small Island States, this opens more legal options in their efforts to encourage high-emitting nations to properly address climate change.

    Importantly, the court made clear nations can be legally liable even if damage from climate change comes from many causes, including from the activities of private actors such as companies.

    That means nations cannot seek an exemption because others have contributed to the problem. They must also act to regulate companies and other entities under their jurisdiction whose activities contribute to climate change.

    Pacific Island nations emit very little but face huge threats from climate change.
    Luca Turati/Unsplash, CC BY-NC-ND

    Paris Agreement quitters aren’t safe

    One line of argument put to the court by Australia and other states was that climate treaties represented the only obligations to tackle climate change under international law.

    But the court found this was not the case. Rather, other international laws applied.

    The United States pulled out of the Paris Agreement earlier this year. The court’s opinion means the US and other nations are still accountable for climate harms under other international laws by which all countries are bound.

    Could this lead to greater climate action?

    The International Court of Justice has produced a truly historic ruling.

    It will set a new baseline in terms what countries need to do to address climate change and opens up new avenues of recourse against high-emitting states not doing enough on climate change.

    Jacqueline Peel receives funding from the Australian Research Council under her Australian Laureate Fellowship and Kathleen Fitzpatrick Award on ‘Transforming International Law for Corporate Climate Accountability’.

    ref. Historic ruling finds climate change ‘imperils all forms of life’ and puts laggard nations on notice – https://theconversation.com/historic-ruling-finds-climate-change-imperils-all-forms-of-life-and-puts-laggard-nations-on-notice-261848

    MIL OSI

  • MIL-OSI Africa: New Dam Inaugurated in Dirfo Administrative Area

    Source: APO


    .

    A new dam in the Dirfo administrative area, Central Region, constructed at a cost of over 15 million Nakfa with a capacity to hold more than 200 thousand cubic meters of water, was inaugurated on 22 July.

    The inauguration ceremony was attended by Mr. Fesehaye Haile, Governor of the Central Region; General Filipos Woldeyohannes, Chief of Staff of the Eritrean Defense Forces; as well as senior commanders of the Central Command and Popular Force.

    Eng. Abraham Daniel, head of agricultural infrastructure in the Central Region, stated that construction of the dam began in December 2023 and was completed in April 2025 with strong participation from the public and members of the Defense Forces.

    Commending the initiative as a lasting solution to the potable water supply problem of the residents, Mr. Omar Ibrahim, administrator of the area, expressed readiness to conduct regular follow-up for the sustainability of the dam.

    Noting that the project provided valuable hands-on experience, the Commander of the Defense Forces involved in the construction said it would significantly contribute to their future participation in similar national development projects.

    Mr. Fesehaye Haile, for his part, noted that in the past two years, new dams have been constructed in the administrative areas of Gul-i, Temameo, Adi-Qe, and Arbe Robu, and that the Dirfo dam is a continuation of the same initiative.

    Certificates of recognition were awarded to individuals and groups who contributed to the project.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Libyan lawmakers, military and security officials discuss strengthening legislative role in national security

    Source: APO


    .

    Members of the House of Representatives and senior military and security officials gathered in the Tunisian capital this week for a two-day forum aimed at bolstering the role of legislators in shaping Libya’s national security legislations.  

    Organized and facilitated by the United Nations Support Mission in Libya, the event was attended by the Defense and National Security Committee, the Interior Committee, the Legislative Committee, and the Women and Children Committee of the Libyan House of Representatives. The UN Security Sector Reform Standing Capacity also participated. 

    Participants conducted a deep dive into shortcomings in the current legislation, emphasizing the need for comprehensive reforms that reflect Libya’s evolving security landscape. Key priorities included strengthening border security and enhancing the legislative authority’s capacity to modernize relevant laws. 

    The forum also spotlighted successful national initiatives, such as the development of a code of conduct for military and security personnel, raising the minimum age for recruitment, updating the police law, and intensifying efforts to secure Libya’s land borders. These measures were presented as foundational steps toward building more professional, effective, and responsive security and military institutions. 

    On the second day, discussions turned to election security. Participants stressed the importance of updating the legislation pertaining to elections security to ensure a safe and transparent electoral process—regardless of the type of elections. UNSMIL presented categories of misinformation, disinformation and malinformation, outlining its risks to electoral integrity. The session underscored the urgent need to update relevant legislation to keep pace with rapid developments in the digital information space. 

    In the context of Libya’s ongoing transitional phase, participants and UNSMIL experts reviewed a proposed action plan aimed at strengthening the role of the House of Representatives in security sector reform. The plan calls for the creation of specialized parliamentary sub-committees tasked with reviewing and updating security legislation, in collaboration with national and international experts and under UNSMIL’s technical guidance. 

    The plan, which received broad consensus, places citizen protection and human rights at the core of any future security legislation. It also calls for adherence to international standards and a stronger role for civil society in delivering security services. 

    “This dialogue between key Libyan institutions is a vital step toward strengthening the rule of law and fostering constructive engagement between the executive and legislative branches,” said Badreddine El Harti, Chief of Security Institution Services at UNSMIL. “It lays the foundation for sustainable peace and long-term state-building.”  

    The next meeting is scheduled for the second half of September, with UNSMIL set to coordinate preparations and mobilize international support to advance the implementation of the action plan.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL).

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South Africa: Committee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Welcomes the Appointment of the National Youth Development Youth Agency (NYDA) Board

    Source: APO


    .

    The Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities has noted the appointment of the new Board of the National Youth Development Youth Agency (NYDA) by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

    The Chairperson of the committee, Ms Liezl van der Merwe, said that the committee welcomes the new Board which replaces an interim one that has been in place since November 2024. She expressed the optimism of the committee on the new Board with members who have relevant skills and knowledge that will add a meaningful value to the NYDA and take it to the new heights.

    Ms van der Merwe said the committee expressed its faith in the new leadership of the NYDA, which is led by a new Chief Executive Officer. The committee wished the new Board well and trust that it will rise to the occasion.

    The Chairperson said the committee is looking forward to working together with the new Board and hopes that it will provide innovative solutions that will address the complex and vast challenges that currently face the young people.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

    MIL OSI Africa

  • Microsoft says some SharePoint server hackers now using ransomware

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A cyber-espionage campaign centered on vulnerable versions of Microsoft‘s server software now involves the deployment of ransomware, Microsoft said in a late Wednesday blog post.

    In the post, citing “expanded analysis and threat intelligence,” Microsoft said a group it dubs “Storm-2603” is using the vulnerability to seed the ransomware, which typically works by paralyzing victims’ networks until a digital currency payment is made.

    The disclosure marks a potential escalation in the campaign, which has already hit at least 400 victims, according to Netherlands-based cybersecurity firm Eye Security. Unlike typical state-backed hacker campaigns, which are aimed at stealing data, ransomware can cause widespread disruption depending on where it lands.

    The figure of 400 victims represents a sharp rise from the 100 organizations cataloged over the weekend. Eye Security says the figure is likely an undercount.

    “There are many more, because not all attack vectors have left artifacts that we could scan for,” said Vaisha Bernard, the chief hacker for Eye Security, which was among the first organizations to flag the breaches.

    The details of most of the victim organizations have not yet been fully disclosed, but on Wednesday a representative for the National Institutes of Health confirmed that one of the organization’s servers had been compromised.

    “Additional servers were isolated as a precaution,” he said. The news of the compromise was first reported by the Washington Post.

    Other outlets said the hacking campaign had breached an even broader range of U.S. agencies. NextGov, citing multiple people familiar with the matter, reported the Department of Homeland Security had been hit, along with more than five to 12 other agencies.

    Politico, which cited two U.S. officials, said multiple agencies were believed to have been breached.

    DHS’ cyberdefense arm, CISA, did not immediately return a message seeking comment on the reports. Microsoft did not immediately return a message seeking further details on the ransomware angle of the hacking or the reported government victims.

    The spy campaign began after Microsoft failed to fully patch a security hole in its SharePoint server software, kicking off a scramble to fix the vulnerability when it was discovered.

    Microsoft and its tech rival, Google-owner Alphabet, have both said Chinese hackers are among those taking advantage of the flaw. Beijing has denied the claim.

    -Reuters

  • U’khand panchayat polls: 1st phase of voting begins, CM Dhami to cast vote in Khatima

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Thursday arrived in Khatima to cast his vote as the first phase of the three-tier panchayat elections commenced across the state.

    He reached Khatima via helicopter and landed at the helipad of Saraf Public School. After this, he headed to the Nagla Tarai Primary School polling booth to exercise his right to vote.

    The voting, being held in two phases across 12 districts — excluding Haridwar — is set to decide thousands of local representatives.

    According to the notification issued by the Uttarakhand State Election Commission, a total of 2,247 candidates are in the fray for 948 member Gram Panchayat seats, while 9,731 candidates are contesting for 3,393 Pradhan Gram Panchayat posts.

    Additionally, 4,980 candidates are contesting for 1,507 Area Panchayat member positions and 871 for 201 District Panchayat member posts.

    An estimated 26 lakh voters were eligible to cast their votes in this first phase. Despite persistent monsoon showers, voters turned up in large numbers, forming long queues outside polling booths in various parts of the state.

    A total of 1,240 polling personnel were deployed to ensure the smooth conduct of elections, while tight security arrangements were put in place to maintain law and order throughout the process.

    Earlier in the day, CM Dhami took to X to appeal to voters, saying, “Today, the first phase of voting for the three-tier panchayat elections is taking place. I appeal to all the divine people of the state to reach the polling stations in large numbers and exercise their voting rights.”

    “With your vote, choose capable, aware, and dedicated representatives who will strongly raise your voice and strengthen the foundation of rural development. Your single vote is an important step towards a robust Panchayati Raj system,” he added.

    The second phase of voting is scheduled for July 28, and counting of votes will take place on July 31.

    (IANS)

  • U’khand panchayat polls: 1st phase of voting begins, CM Dhami to cast vote in Khatima

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Thursday arrived in Khatima to cast his vote as the first phase of the three-tier panchayat elections commenced across the state.

    He reached Khatima via helicopter and landed at the helipad of Saraf Public School. After this, he headed to the Nagla Tarai Primary School polling booth to exercise his right to vote.

    The voting, being held in two phases across 12 districts — excluding Haridwar — is set to decide thousands of local representatives.

    According to the notification issued by the Uttarakhand State Election Commission, a total of 2,247 candidates are in the fray for 948 member Gram Panchayat seats, while 9,731 candidates are contesting for 3,393 Pradhan Gram Panchayat posts.

    Additionally, 4,980 candidates are contesting for 1,507 Area Panchayat member positions and 871 for 201 District Panchayat member posts.

    An estimated 26 lakh voters were eligible to cast their votes in this first phase. Despite persistent monsoon showers, voters turned up in large numbers, forming long queues outside polling booths in various parts of the state.

    A total of 1,240 polling personnel were deployed to ensure the smooth conduct of elections, while tight security arrangements were put in place to maintain law and order throughout the process.

    Earlier in the day, CM Dhami took to X to appeal to voters, saying, “Today, the first phase of voting for the three-tier panchayat elections is taking place. I appeal to all the divine people of the state to reach the polling stations in large numbers and exercise their voting rights.”

    “With your vote, choose capable, aware, and dedicated representatives who will strongly raise your voice and strengthen the foundation of rural development. Your single vote is an important step towards a robust Panchayati Raj system,” he added.

    The second phase of voting is scheduled for July 28, and counting of votes will take place on July 31.

    (IANS)

  • Markets open flat; IT, midcap stocks under pressure amid mixed global cues

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian stock market opened flat on Thursday as IT companies came under selling pressure amid mixed global cues.

    At 9:28 a.m., the Sensex slipped 110 points or 0.13 per cent to 82,615, and the Nifty declined 13 points or 0.05 per cent to 25,206.

    Sectorally, the Nifty IT index underperformed with a loss of 1.17 per cent. All other sectors showed marginal dips or moderate gains. Bank stocks registered moderate losses of up to 0.20 per cent.

    Midcap and smallcap stocks also faced selling pressure. The Nifty Midcap 100 index was down 0.39 per cent at 59,148, while the Nifty Smallcap 100 index declined 0.07 per cent to 18,879.

    In the Nifty pack, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories led the gainers with a 3.07 per cent rise, followed by Tata Motors at 1.51 per cent. Tata Consumer Products, Eicher Motors, JSW Steel, and Tata Steel were also among the top gainers. Trent, Kotak Mahindra Bank, and Bajaj Finance were among the early losers.

    “Market sentiment remains cautiously optimistic amid heightened volatility and mixed global cues. Nifty 50’s rebound highlights buyer strength at lower levels. A sustained move above 25,250 could potentially open the path toward the 25,330 mark. On the downside, immediate support is placed at 25,125, followed by 25,000,” said Hardik Matalia of Choice Equity Broking Private Limited.

    The Bank Nifty outperformed the broader index, rising 454 points and forming a bullish candlestick, indicating renewed buying interest, he added.

    Both Asian and U.S. indices posted strong overnight gains, lending a positive backdrop for Indian markets at the open.

    In the U.S., the Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 1.14 per cent, the Nasdaq rose 0.61 per cent, and the S&P 500 added 0.78 per cent.

    According to analysts, the U.S. striking trade deals with various countries is gradually easing concerns over tariff wars. Strong corporate earnings in the U.S. are also providing fundamental support to the market.

    In Asian markets, the Nikkei 225 continued its strong rally for the second consecutive day, gaining 1.97 per cent, while Indonesia’s Jakarta Composite climbed 1.70 per cent. Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Seoul were also trading in the green.

    On July 23, foreign institutional investors (FIIs) were net sellers for the fifth consecutive session, offloading stocks worth Rs 4,209 crore. In contrast, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) remained strong buyers for the 12th straight day, purchasing shares worth Rs 4,358 crore.

    IANS

  • Markets open flat; IT, midcap stocks under pressure amid mixed global cues

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian stock market opened flat on Thursday as IT companies came under selling pressure amid mixed global cues.

    At 9:28 a.m., the Sensex slipped 110 points or 0.13 per cent to 82,615, and the Nifty declined 13 points or 0.05 per cent to 25,206.

    Sectorally, the Nifty IT index underperformed with a loss of 1.17 per cent. All other sectors showed marginal dips or moderate gains. Bank stocks registered moderate losses of up to 0.20 per cent.

    Midcap and smallcap stocks also faced selling pressure. The Nifty Midcap 100 index was down 0.39 per cent at 59,148, while the Nifty Smallcap 100 index declined 0.07 per cent to 18,879.

    In the Nifty pack, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories led the gainers with a 3.07 per cent rise, followed by Tata Motors at 1.51 per cent. Tata Consumer Products, Eicher Motors, JSW Steel, and Tata Steel were also among the top gainers. Trent, Kotak Mahindra Bank, and Bajaj Finance were among the early losers.

    “Market sentiment remains cautiously optimistic amid heightened volatility and mixed global cues. Nifty 50’s rebound highlights buyer strength at lower levels. A sustained move above 25,250 could potentially open the path toward the 25,330 mark. On the downside, immediate support is placed at 25,125, followed by 25,000,” said Hardik Matalia of Choice Equity Broking Private Limited.

    The Bank Nifty outperformed the broader index, rising 454 points and forming a bullish candlestick, indicating renewed buying interest, he added.

    Both Asian and U.S. indices posted strong overnight gains, lending a positive backdrop for Indian markets at the open.

    In the U.S., the Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 1.14 per cent, the Nasdaq rose 0.61 per cent, and the S&P 500 added 0.78 per cent.

    According to analysts, the U.S. striking trade deals with various countries is gradually easing concerns over tariff wars. Strong corporate earnings in the U.S. are also providing fundamental support to the market.

    In Asian markets, the Nikkei 225 continued its strong rally for the second consecutive day, gaining 1.97 per cent, while Indonesia’s Jakarta Composite climbed 1.70 per cent. Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Seoul were also trading in the green.

    On July 23, foreign institutional investors (FIIs) were net sellers for the fifth consecutive session, offloading stocks worth Rs 4,209 crore. In contrast, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) remained strong buyers for the 12th straight day, purchasing shares worth Rs 4,358 crore.

    IANS

  • UAE Central Bank mandates phase-out of SMS and email OTP authentication by March 2026

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (CBUAE) has issued a directive requiring all financial institutions to eliminate SMS and email-based one-time password (OTP) authentication for customer transactions by March 31, 2026. This move, aimed at bolstering digital banking security, will affect banks, finance companies, exchange houses, insurers, and payment service providers across the UAE, marking a significant shift toward more secure, risk-based authentication technologies.

    Traditional OTP methods, delivered via SMS or email, are increasingly vulnerable to phishing, SIM swapping, and SS7 protocol exploits. To counter these threats, the CBUAE is mandating the adoption of advanced authentication methods, such as Emirates Face Recognition, biometric verification, and mobile-based soft tokens.

    Starting July 25, 2025, UAE banks will begin transitioning customers to app-based authentication for all domestic and international financial transactions. Leading institutions like Emirates NBD, ADIB, and FAB have already adopted biometric and in-app solutions for most online banking activities. Customers will need to enable app-based verification features to authorize transactions, replacing the reliance on SMS or email OTPs. The CBUAE has set a phased implementation, with full compliance required by March 2026.

    The UAE’s move aligns with global trends, as countries like Singapore and Malaysia phase out SMS-based OTPs due to similar security concerns. The Monetary Authority of Singapore, for instance, mandated a similar shift in 2024, citing rising phishing scams. The CBUAE’s directive is part of its broader Financial Infrastructure Transformation (FIT) Programme, which includes initiatives like the planned launch of a retail central bank digital currency (CBDC), the digital dirham, in late 2025.

  • MIL-OSI: Tanate Phutrakul to step down as CFO at 2026 AGM

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Tanate Phutrakul to step down as CFO at 2026 AGM

    ING announced today that Tanate Phutrakul will step down from his position as CFO and member of the Executive Board of ING. Tanate will leave ING as of the Annual General Meeting in April 2026, after 24 years at ING of which seven on the Executive Board. 

    Karl Guha, chairman of ING’s Supervisory Board said: “It has been a privilege to work with Tanate. I have come to know him as a man of good grace, integrity, and high standards. He has been instrumental in helping steer ING to a better place of strong performance and delivering on our promises. We are fortunate to still have him on our executive team until the AGM and wish him every success in the next phase of his life.”

    Steven van Rijswijk, CEO of ING said: “I want to thank Tanate for his many years serving ING. While it is never easy to see a colleague leave, after seven years as CFO on the board it is a logical moment for Tanate to step down. With his deeply professional and pleasant approach, he has played a pivotal role in guiding ING through a turbulent period for the bank, the sector and the world. He has done so with his trademark calmness and has been an invaluable part of our executive team. His contributions in making ING the strong and financially sound bank it is today, which enables our current growth strategy, can hardly be overestimated. We look forward to continue to work with Tanate in the coming months.”

    Tanate Phutrakul said: “It has been and still is a pleasure to serve as a board member of ING, having helped shape the bank into what it is. It has been a wonderful journey. Many thanks for the kind support of Steven and my fellow board members and especially to the many ING colleagues I have worked with over the years.”

    Tanate joined ING in 1998 as managing director of ING Barings Securities Thailand. From 2003 until 2008 he served as head of Wholesale Banking and chief financial officer of TMB Bank in Thailand. In successive years he served as CFO of ING’s Operations and IT unit, ING Retail Banking International and ING Belgium. In 2019, he was appointed to the Executive Board as CFO of ING Group. 

    The search for a successor has been initiated and announcements will be made in due course. 

    Note for editors
    For further information on ING, please visit www.ing.com. Frequent news updates can be found in the Newsroom. Photos of ING operations, buildings and its executives are available for download at Flickr.

    ING PROFILE
    ING is a global financial institution with a strong European base, offering banking services through its operating company ING Bank. The purpose of ING Bank is: empowering people to stay a step ahead in life and in business. ING Bank’s more than 60,000 employees offer retail and wholesale banking services to customers in over 100 countries.

    ING Group shares are listed on the exchanges of Amsterdam (INGA NA, INGA.AS), Brussels and on the New York Stock Exchange (ADRs: ING US, ING.N).

    ING aims to put sustainability at the heart of what we do. Our policies and actions are assessed by independent research and ratings providers, which give updates on them annually. ING’s ESG rating by MSCI was reconfirmed by MSCI as ‘AA’ in August 2024 for the fifth year. As of June 2025, in Sustainalytics’ view, ING’s management of ESG material risk is ‘Strong’ with an ESG risk rating of 18.0 (low risk). ING Group shares are also included in major sustainability and ESG index products of leading providers. Here are some examples: Euronext, STOXX, Morningstar and FTSE Russell. Society is transitioning to a low-carbon economy. So are our clients, and so is ING. We finance a lot of sustainable activities, but we still finance more that’s not. Follow our progress on ing.com/climate.

    IMPORTANT LEGAL INFORMATION
    Elements of this press release contain or may contain information about ING Groep N.V. and/ or ING Bank N.V. within the meaning of Article 7(1) to (4) of EU Regulation No 596/2014 (‘Market Abuse Regulation’).

    ING Group’s annual accounts are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union (‘IFRS- EU’). In preparing the financial information in this document, except as described otherwise, the same accounting principles are applied as in the 2024 ING Group consolidated annual accounts. All figures in this document are unaudited. Small differences are possible in the tables due to rounding.

    Certain of the statements contained herein are not historical facts, including, without limitation, certain statements made of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on management’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Actual results, performance or events may differ materially from those in such statements due to a number of factors, including, without limitation: (1) changes in general economic conditions and customer behaviour, in particular economic conditions in ING’s core markets, including changes affecting currency exchange rates and the regional and global economic impact of the invasion of Russia into Ukraine and related international response measures (2) changes affecting interest rate levels (3) any default of a major market participant and related market disruption (4) changes in performance of financial markets, including in Europe and developing markets (5) fiscal uncertainty in Europe and the United States (6) discontinuation of or changes in ‘benchmark’ indices (7) inflation and deflation in our principal markets (8) changes in conditions in the credit and capital markets generally, including changes in borrower and counterparty creditworthiness (9) failures of banks falling under the scope of state compensation schemes (10) non-compliance with or changes in laws and regulations, including those concerning financial services, financial economic crimes and tax laws, and the interpretation and application thereof (11) geopolitical risks, political instabilities and policies and actions of governmental and regulatory authorities, including in connection with the invasion of Russia into Ukraine and the related international response measures (12) legal and regulatory risks in certain countries with less developed legal and regulatory frameworks (13) prudential supervision and regulations, including in relation to stress tests and regulatory restrictions on dividends and distributions (also among members of the group) (14) ING’s ability to meet minimum capital and other prudential regulatory requirements (15) changes in regulation of US commodities and derivatives businesses of ING and its customers (16) application of bank recovery and resolution regimes, including write down and conversion powers in relation to our securities (17) outcome of current and future litigation, enforcement proceedings, investigations or other regulatory actions, including claims by customers or stakeholders who feel misled or treated unfairly, and other conduct issues (18) changes in tax laws and regulations and risks of non-compliance or investigation in connection with tax laws, including FATCA (19) operational and IT risks, such as system disruptions or failures, breaches of security, cyber-attacks, human error, changes in operational practices or inadequate controls including in respect of third parties with which we do business and including any risks as a result of incomplete, inaccurate, or otherwise flawed outputs from the algorithms and data sets utilized in artificial intelligence (20) risks and challenges related to cybercrime including the effects of cyberattacks and changes in legislation and regulation related to cybersecurity and data privacy, including such risks and challenges as a consequence of the use of emerging technologies, such as advanced forms of artificial intelligence and quantum computing (21) changes in general competitive factors, including ability to increase or maintain market share (22) inability to protect our intellectual property and infringement claims by third parties (23) inability of counterparties to meet financial obligations or ability to enforce rights against such counterparties (24) changes in credit ratings (25) business, operational, regulatory, reputation, transition and other risks and challenges in connection with climate change, diversity, equity and inclusion and other ESG-related matters, including data gathering and reporting and also including managing the conflicting laws and requirements of governments, regulators and authorities with respect to these topics (26) inability to attract and retain key personnel (27) future liabilities under defined benefit retirement plans (28) failure to manage business risks, including in connection with use of models, use of derivatives, or maintaining appropriate policies and guidelines (29) changes in capital and credit markets, including interbank funding, as well as customer deposits, which provide the liquidity and capital required to fund our operations, and (30) the other risks and uncertainties detailed in the most recent annual report of ING Groep N.V. (including the Risk Factors contained therein) and ING’s more recent disclosures, including press releases, which are available on www.ING.com.

    This document may contain ESG-related material that has been prepared by ING on the basis of publicly available information, internally developed data and other third-party sources believed to be reliable. ING has not sought to independently verify information obtained from public and third-party sources and makes no representations or warranties as to accuracy, completeness, reasonableness or reliability of such information.

    Materiality, as used in the context of ESG, is distinct from, and should not be confused with, such term as defined in the Market Abuse Regulation or as defined for Securities and Exchange Commission (‘SEC’) reporting purposes. Any issues identified as material for purposes of ESG in this document are therefore not necessarily material as defined in the Market Abuse Regulation or for SEC reporting purposes. In addition, there is currently no single, globally recognized set of accepted definitions in assessing whether activities are “green” or “sustainable.” Without limiting any of the statements contained herein, we make no representation or warranty as to whether any of our securities constitutes a green or sustainable security or conforms to present or future investor expectations or objectives for green or sustainable investing. For information on characteristics of a security, use of proceeds, a description of applicable project(s) and/or any other relevant information, please reference the offering documents for such security.

    This document may contain inactive textual addresses to internet websites operated by us and third parties. Reference to such websites is made for information purposes only, and information found at such websites is not incorporated by reference into this document. ING does not make any representation or warranty with respect to the accuracy or completeness of, or take any responsibility for, any information found at any websites operated by third parties. ING specifically disclaims any liability with respect to any information found at websites operated by third parties. ING cannot guarantee that websites operated by third parties remain available following the publication of this document, or that any information found at such websites will not change following the filing of this document. Many of those factors are beyond ING’s control.

    Any forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of ING speak only as of the date they are made, and ING assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information or for any other reason.

    This document does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to purchase, any securities in the United States or any other jurisdiction.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Australian Life Sciences Venture Capital firm Brandon Capital announces Fund Six final close totalling over A$439m

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MELBOURNE, Australia, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Brandon Capital, Australasia’s leading life sciences venture capital firm, today announced the final close of its sixth fund at A$439 million.

    Joining existing investors Hesta, Host Plus, CSL and QIC are the WA Government and Australia’s sovereign investor in manufacturing capability, the National Reconstruction Fund Corporation (NRFC).

    This final close of Brandon BioCatalyst Fund Six (BB6) will see Brandon Capital continue to invest in emerging biomedical technologies with strong commercial potential, translating these exciting discoveries into high-growth firms that positively impact human health.

    To date, Brandon Capital has raised over A$1 billion across previous funds with notable Fund Six investments to date including AdvanCell (radiopharma), PolyActiva (glaucoma implant), Myricx Bio (ADC) and CatalYm (oncology).

    Dr Chris Nave, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Brandon Capital, “We’re excited to welcome the National Reconstruction Fund Corporation to our sixth fund, joining HESTA, Hostplus, CSL, QIC and the WA Government. Closing at $439 million, BB6 is our largest fund to date, and we remain committed to advancing breakthrough biomedical innovations through our unwavering scientific rigour and disciplined capital allocation, in pursuit of exceeding our investors’ expectations.”

    The firm has a track record of advancing its portfolio companies to commercialisation. Recent Brandon Capital portfolio company announcements include FDA approvals for a hypertension therapy from George Medicines and a left ventricular cardiac resynchronisation device developed by EBR Systems, with Q-Sera’s blood collection tubes that produce high-quality serum faster and more reliably, recently approved in Japan.

    Brandon Capital has an active portfolio of over 30 companies with 17 in clinical trials, four advancing or in-market, a promising preclinical pipeline and several actively contributing to Australia’s high-skilled manufacturing sector growth.

    Collectively supporting over 270 high-skilled Australian jobs are: surgical imaging innovator, OncoRes Medical, which has developed the first ‘real-time’ in cavity probe to improve cancer surgery outcomes; late-stage biotech PolyActiva, which is developing a long-term treatment for glaucoma, the second leading cause of blindness; needle-free patch for vaccine delivery Vaxxas, and radiopharmaceutical company AdvanCell, which is developing novel therapies for the treatment of a range of cancers.

    NRFC CEO David Gall said, “Medical science has long development timelines, and it is important for the NRFC to make early and considered investments in the sector to attract the talent and capital that we will need to build our local commercialisation capabilities. If we want medical science jobs and industries to exist in Australia in ten years, we need to invest in them today.”

    Brandon Capital, headquartered in Australia with offices in the UK and US, has established a transcontinental presence that strengthens collaboration across regions. Australian portfolio companies gain access to UK/EU/US capital, expertise, and pharma networks, while international companies benefit from Australia’s world-class clinical trial and research capabilities.

    About Brandon Capital – www.brandoncapital.vc

    Brandon Capital is Australasia’s leading life sciences venture capital firm, with offices in Australia, New Zealand, the US and the UK. Its unique model includes proprietary deal flow through Brandon BioCatalyst, a collaboration of over 50 of ANZ’s leading medical research institutions, and its immersive corporate services structure enables portfolio companies to focus on research commercialisation. With more than 30 active companies in its portfolio, Brandon Capital has been sourcing and supporting the transition of world-leading science into world-leading businesses for nearly two decades.

    For further information please contact

    Media – Australia
    Kirrily Davis, E: kdavis@bcpvc.com M: +61 (0)401 220228

    Media – International
    Sue Charles, Charles Consultants E: sue.charles@charles-consultants.com M: +44 (0)7968 726585

    Chris Gardner, E: Chris@CGComms.onmicrosoft.com M: +44 (0)7956 031077

    About the National Reconstruction Fund Corporation (NRFC)

    The NRFC invests to diversify and transform Australia’s industry and economy. It has $15 billion to invest using direct loans, equity investments and loan guarantees. The NRFC investment mandate covers seven priority areas including value-add in resources; transport; medical science; defence capability; renewables and low emission technologies; value-add in agriculture, forestry and fisheries; and enabling capabilities. 

    The NRFC’s role is to invest in Australian businesses and projects that design, refine and make in order to transform capability, grow jobs and a skilled workforce, and diversify our economy. NRFC is a corporate Commonwealth entity, established by the National Reconstruction Fund Corporation Act 2023 (NRFC Act) in September 2023.

    For more information, visit nrf.gov.au 

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Result of the Overnight Variable Rate Repo (VRR) auction held on July 24, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Tenor 1-day
    Notified Amount (in ₹ crore) 50,000
    Total amount of bids received (in ₹ crore) 1,421
    Amount allotted (in ₹ crore) 1,421
    Cut off Rate (%) 5.51
    Weighted Average Rate (%) 5.53
    Partial Allotment Percentage of bids received at cut off rate (%) NA

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/775

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Eritrea: Meeting on Implementation of Development Programs

    Source: APO – Report:

    .

    Ambassador Abdella Musa, Governor of the Anseba Region, conducted a meeting with residents of Keren city on 22 July focusing on the implementation of planned development programs.

    At the meeting, Ambassador Abdella said that the progress registered over the past few years in water and soil conservation and dam construction was the result of strong public participation and involvement of the Defense Forces. He noted that this experience will be vital for the implementation of future development programs.

    Ambassador Abdella also highlighted that the implemented programs have made significant contributions to food security efforts and called for continued public engagement in upcoming initiatives.

    He further stated that the dams constructed so far have played a critical role in ensuring water supply for both the public and livestock, as well as in supporting irrigation farming. He called for reinforced participation to sustain these efforts and urged the public to ensure that school-aged children attend regular education.

    The participants conducted extensive discussions on the issues raised during the meeting and adopted various recommendations.

    – on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Underwriting Auction for sale of Government Securities for ₹36,000 crore on July 25, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Government of India has announced the sale (re-issue) of Government Securities, as detailed below, through auctions to be held on July 25, 2025 (Friday).

    As per the extant scheme of underwriting commitment notified on November 14, 2007, the amounts of Minimum Underwriting Commitment (MUC) and the minimum bidding commitment under Additional Competitive Underwriting (ACU) auction, applicable to each Primary Dealer (PD), are as under:

    (₹ crore)
    Security Notified Amount MUC amount per PD Minimum bidding commitment per PD under ACU auction
    5.91% GS 2028 6,000 143 143
    6.33% GS 2035 30,000 715 715

    The underwriting auction will be conducted through multiple price-based method on July 25, 2025 (Friday). PDs may submit their bids for ACU auction electronically through Core Banking Solution (E-Kuber) System between 09:00 A.M. and 09:30 A.M. on the day of underwriting auction.

    The underwriting commission will be credited to the current account of the respective PDs with RBI on the day of issue of securities.

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/774

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese automakers unveil new models in Indonesia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    JAKARTA, July 24 (Xinhua) — Chinese automakers on Wednesday unveiled new electric vehicle models in Indonesia, where demand for them continues to grow.

    At the GAIKINDO Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) in Tangerang, Banten Province, Chinese automaker BYD unveiled the Atto 1, known in China as the Seagull or Dolphin Mini.

    “This is the first Atto 1 in Southeast Asia. We offer it in two variants: Dynamic and Premium,” said Nathan Sun, COO of BYD Indonesia, during the launch.

    In turn, Wuling presented a new multi-purpose vehicle Cortez Darion, designed for both family and business use. It will be available in two versions: hybrid and fully electric.

    GIIAS 2025 officially opened on Wednesday and will be open to the general public from July 24 to August 3. –0–

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

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    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: In China, about 95 percent of the population is covered by basic medical insurance /detailed version-1/

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, July 24 (Xinhua) — During the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), the country’s basic medical insurance coverage remained at about 95 percent, with the number of people registered in the system reaching more than 1.32 billion in 2024, according to data from the National Medical Insurance Administration (NMIA).

    These data were made public by the head of the Main Directorate of the Ministry of Internal Affairs Zhang Ke at a press conference held on Thursday.

    In China, health insurance reimbursed citizens for nearly 20 billion visits to doctors between 2021 and 2024, Zhang Ke said, noting that in 2024, the number of people visiting doctors increased by 1.6 times compared to the figure recorded at the end of 2020. -0-

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Saudi Arabian delegation arrives in Damascus to participate in investment forum

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    DAMASCUS, July 24 (Xinhua) — A high-level Saudi delegation led by Investment Minister Khalid al-Falih arrived in Damascus on Wednesday to open the Saudi-Syrian Investment Forum, which is seen as a significant step toward restoring and expanding economic cooperation between the two countries, state news agency SANA reported.

    The delegation, sent at the initiative of Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, includes more than 130 businessmen and investors.

    As SANA notes, the purpose of the forum is to explore opportunities for bilateral cooperation and promote the signing of agreements that support sustainable development and mutual economic interests of the two countries.

    As part of the forum program, it is planned to launch a project for a white cement production plant in the city of Adra in the outskirts of Damascus.

    In an interview with Saudi Arabia’s Al Arabiya TV channel on Wednesday, Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to Syria Faisal al-Majfal said the forum reflects the kingdom’s leadership’s commitment to supporting reconstruction, the resumption of state institutions and the territorial unity of Syria. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: More than 145,000 people have fled their homes due to violence in Syria’s As-Suwayda province – UN

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    DAMASCUS, July 24 (Xinhua) — Despite a declared ceasefire, sporadic clashes, drone strikes and ground fighting continue in Suwayda province and surrounding areas in southern Syria, with the number of displaced people exceeding 145,000, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said on Wednesday.

    According to him, mortar shelling and aerial reconnaissance were recorded from July 20 to 22, civilians were injured, and thousands were forced to flee. Most of the displaced persons remain within the province of As-Suwayda, while some are seeking refuge in the neighboring province of Daraa and rural areas of Damascus.

    Access to basic services remains severely disrupted across As-Suwayda. The UN reports widespread disruptions to electricity, water, fuel and communications, while food insecurity is exacerbated by disruptions to markets and the closure of bakeries.

    Humanitarian organisations have begun to respond to the crisis, providing health and protection services to affected communities, delivering food, clean water and non-food items. Access constraints remain, hampering their work.

    The UN warns that displacement continues in the region, with overcrowded shelters, poor sanitation and explosive contamination exacerbating risks for already vulnerable groups. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Cambodian and Thai soldiers exchange fire in disputed border area

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    PHNOM PENH, July 24 (Xinhua) — Cambodian soldiers clashed with Thai soldiers in a disputed border area on Thursday, said Mali Socheat, deputy secretary of state and spokesperson for the Cambodian Defense Ministry.

    According to her, armed clashes occurred on the Cambodian-Thai border in Oddar Meanchey province.

    “The Thai military was the first to launch an armed attack on Cambodian troops. Cambodian troops acted strictly in self-defense, responding to the unprovoked incursion of Thai troops that violated our territorial integrity,” she said in a statement. -0-

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News