Category: CTF

MIL-OSI Africa: Dallas Mayor Signs City Sister Partnership with Dar es Salaam Counterpart

Source: APO – Report:

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On July 22, 2025, Mayor of Dallas, Texas, USA, Eric L. Johnson and his Dar es Salaam counterpart Mayor Omary Kumbilamoto signed a Sister City Partnership aimed at deepening commercial, cultural, and educational ties.

The signing ceremony, held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Dar es Salaam, was also witnessed by the United States Chargé d’Affaires Jonathan Howard, Tanzania’s Ambassador to the United States, Elsie Kanza, and other Tanzanian government officials.

Mayor Johnson is in Tanzania for an eight-day visit to explore trade opportunities and strengthen economic partnership between Dallas and Dar es Salaam as well as other parts of Tanzania. He is also visiting Zanzibar and Arusha.

The mayor is joined by members of the Tanzanian American Chamber of Commerce (TACC), which is headquartered in Dallas, Texas, and seeks to promote bilateral trade between Tanzania and the United States. The delegation has had productive meetings with the Regional Commissioner of Dar es Salaam, representatives from various Ministries in the Tanzanian government, and the American Chamber of Commerce in Tanzania.

As a major hub for American innovation in the agribusiness, health care, energy, tech, logistics, manufacturing, and financial services sectors, the City of Dallas has set a global standard for how municipal governments can leverage infrastructure development and business incentives to develop a vibrant economy. Thanks to its status as a commercial center and one of the fastest growing cities in the world, Dar es Salaam is a key gateway for unlocking international trade and investment in Tanzania with immense potential to create jobs and economic prosperity for citizens in both countries.

– on behalf of U.S. Embassy in Tanzania.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Joint Meeting of Police and Justice Committees Adopts Report on Ad Hoc Committee to Consider Mkhwanazi Allegations

Source: APO – Report:

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A joint meeting between the Portfolio Committee on Police and the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development today officially adopted its report recommending to the National Assembly (NA) that an Ad Hoc Committee should be established to consider allegations made by the South African Police Service KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkwanazi.

The report reflects the committees’ considered view that an Ad Hoc Committee represents the most effective Parliamentary mechanism to fully investigate and deliberate on the matters raised. The committees recommended the establishment of an Ad Hoc Committee in accordance with NA Rule 253, indicating that the scope of such a committee is task specific and time bound, contrary to the general oversight function of portfolio committees which, in contrast, is ongoing and often requires juggling competing priorities. The report also emphasised the need for the NA to ensure an expeditious process.

Without being prescriptive, the committees propose that the NA takes into account, should it resolve to establish an Ad Hoc Committee as recommended, the need for the process to be concluded within 90 days of the committee being established, provided that the timeframe may be amended or extended if necessary.

Given the gravity of the allegations and their potential implications for the rule of law, governance, and accountability within the criminal justice sector, the committees have resolved that a focused, multi-party Ad Hoc Committee will ensure a transparent, thorough and fair process. The committees further noted that actual composition of such a committee, as well as its terms of reference, does not reside with the joint meeting.

The meeting has reiterated Parliament’s constitutional responsibility to exercise oversight over state institutions and to uphold the principles of justice, integrity and accountability. The committees also reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that this matter is handled with the seriousness it deserves and in line with the Constitution and the rules of Parliament.

The report adopted today will be submitted to the NA for consideration.

– on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Gondokoro equation of more people living on limited land creates tensions and calls for disarmament

Source: APO – Report:

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In Gondokoro, some 25 kilometers east of the capital Juba, locals are concerned. An influx of livestock herders has increased competition for already scarce resources, particularly land, leading to tensions among residents, internally displaced persons and the pastoralists.

“Farms and crops have been destroyed and some of our animals stolen. It is still not safe for us to return to our homes,” says Sarah Gelerino, who lives nearby, across the Nile, after having been displaced in 2022.

Lina Keji, a Gondokoro resident, adds that insecurity is not the only consequence of a larger local population.

“Our healthcare facilities have suffered from a shortage of medicines for months. Transporting a sick person to Juba, or to go there to buy medication, is very expensive, which means that walking is the only option for most of us,” she says.

Government efforts to make cattle keepers from elsewhere go home mean that Gondokoro is currently a somewhat less violent place than it was a couple of years ago, but some problems do persist.

Local cattle owner Achirin Mayar is blunt about it.

“In the past, we ran from lions. Now we flee from humans with guns. This must stop,” he says, referring to the proliferation of small arms that worries most people living here.

To prevent a breakdown of law and order, they believe the government should disarm all civilians, without exceptions. Community director John Gabriel Ladu would welcome that but thinks that more is needed.

“Local authorities must engage with the feuding parties to resolve their differences, otherwise we won’t have peace in the area,” he says.

According to Captain Zakariya, the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces have established checkpoints in strategic locations to better protect civilians.

“We would like community leaders and traditional chiefs to encourage displaced people to return home and start farming, and we are trying to make that safe.”

Despite existing tensions, Lauro Ohiyu, who serves with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and was part of the delegation that visited Gondokoro, is optimistic.

“We were encouraged to see local authorities’ consistent calls for people to return home. UNMISS and the UN family are committed to working with the State Government and partners to make this a safe place for everyone, not least for those who want to go back to where they used to live.”

– on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

MIL OSI Africa –

July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pharaoh’s fungus yields cancer-fighting compounds

Source: Anglia Ruskin University

The sarcophagus inside the tomb of King Tutankhamun

By Justin Stebbing, Anglia Ruskin University

In November 1922, archaeologist Howard Carter peered through a small hole into the sealed tomb of King Tutankhamun. When asked if he could see anything, he replied: “Yes, wonderful things.” Within months, however, Carter’s financial backer Lord Carnarvon was dead from a mysterious illness. Over the following years, several other members of the excavation team would meet similar fates, fuelling legends of the “pharaoh’s curse” that have captivated the public imagination for just over a century.

For decades, these mysterious deaths were attributed to supernatural forces. But modern science has revealed a more likely culprit: a toxic fungus known as Aspergillus flavus. Now, in an unexpected twist, this same deadly organism is being transformed into a powerful new weapon in the fight against cancer.

Aspergillus flavus is a common mould found in soil, decaying vegetation and stored grains. It is infamous for its ability to survive in harsh environments, including the sealed chambers of ancient tombs, where it can lie dormant for thousands of years.

When disturbed, the fungus releases spores that can cause severe respiratory infections, particularly in people with weakened immune systems. This may explain the so-called “curse” of King Tutankhamun and similar incidents, such as the deaths of several scientists who entered the tomb of Casimir IV in Poland in the 1970s. In both cases, investigations later found that A flavus was present, and its toxins were probably responsible for the illnesses and deaths.

Despite its deadly reputation, Aspergillus flavus is now at the centre of a remarkable scientific finding. Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have discovered that this fungus produces a unique class of molecules with the potential to fight cancer.

These molecules belong to a group called ribosomally synthesised and post-translationally modified peptides, or RiPPs. RiPPs are made by the ribosome – the cell’s protein factory – and are later chemically altered to enhance their function.

While thousands of RiPPs have been identified in bacteria, only a handful have been found in fungi – until now.

The process of finding these fungal RiPPs was far from simple. The research team screened a dozen different strains or types of aspergillus, searching for chemical clues that might indicate the presence of these promising molecules. Aspergillus flavus quickly stood out as a prime candidate.

The researchers compared the chemicals from different fungal strains to known RiPP compounds and found promising matches. To confirm their discovery, they switched off the relevant genes and, sure enough, the target chemicals vanished, proving they had found the source.

Purifying these chemicals proved to be a significant challenge. However, this complexity is also what gives fungal RiPPs their remarkable biological activity.

The team eventually succeeded in isolating four different RiPPs from Aspergillus flavus. These molecules shared a unique structure of interlocking rings, a feature that had never been described before. The researchers named these new compounds “asperigimycins”, after the fungus in which they were found.

The next step was to test these asperigimycins against human cancer cells. In some cases, they stopped the growth of cancer cells, suggesting that asperigimycins could one day become a new treatment for certain types of cancer.

The team also worked out how these chemicals get inside cancer cells. This discovery is significant because many chemicals, like asperigimycins, have medicinal properties but struggle to enter cells in large enough quantities to be useful. Knowing that particular fats (lipids) can enhance this process gives scientists a new tool for drug development.

Further experiments revealed that asperigimycins probably disrupt the process of cell division in cancer cells. Cancer cells divide uncontrollably, and these compounds appear to block the formation of microtubules, the scaffolding inside cells that are essential for cell division.

Tremendous untapped potential

This disruption is specific to certain types of cells, so this may in turn reduce the risk of side-effects. But the discovery of asperigimycins is just the beginning. The researchers also identified similar clusters of genes in other fungi, suggesting that many more fungal RiPPs remain to be discovered.

Almost all the fungal RiPPs found so far have strong biological activity, making this an area with tremendous untapped potential. The next step is to test asperigimycins in other systems and models, with the hope of eventually moving to human clinical trials. If successful, these molecules could join the ranks of other fungal-derived medicines, such as penicillin, which revolutionised modern medicine.

The story of Aspergillus flavus is a powerful example of how nature can be both a source of danger and a wellspring of healing. For centuries, this fungus was feared as a silent killer lurking in ancient tombs, responsible for mysterious deaths and the legend of the pharaoh’s curse. Today, scientists are turning that fear into hope, harnessing the same deadly spores to create life-saving medicines.

This transformation, from curse to cure, highlights the importance of continued exploration and innovation in the natural world. Nature has in fact provided us with an incredible pharmacy, filled with compounds that can heal as well as harm. It is up to scientists and engineers to uncover these secrets, using the latest technologies to identify, modify and test new molecules for their potential to treat disease.

The discovery of asperigimycins is a reminder that even the most unlikely sources – such as a toxic tomb fungus – can hold the key to revolutionary new treatments. As researchers continue to explore the hidden world of fungi, who knows what other medical breakthroughs may lie just beneath the surface?

Justin Stebbing, Professor of Biomedical Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

The opinions expressed in VIEWPOINT articles are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of ARU.

If you wish to republish this article, please follow these guidelines: https://theconversation.com/uk/republishing-guidelines

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scheme helping SMEs grow has just got bigger

Source: Anglia Ruskin University

A fully-funded programme for managers of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the East of England is expanding to help more businesses to grow.

The 12-week Help to Grow: Management programme is designed to connect ambitious SME leaders with leading academics and experienced business professionals.

Through interactive workshops, peer networking opportunities, and dedicated one-on-one mentoring, participants gain practical tools aimed at boosting operational efficiency and elevating business performance.

The course focuses on crucial business areas, including leadership and strategy; marketing and international markets; financial management; and employee engagement.

The programme also integrates participants into a network of over 140 successful alumni who continue to benefit from ongoing connections and shared experiences.

The course is 90% Government-funded and is delivered by Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) in Cambridge and Chelmsford. ARU is now offering a fully-funded bursary to cover the remaining 10% of costs for eligible businesses, making the course available free to participants upon successful completion.

“The Help to Grow programme is instrumental in equipping business owners with the essential knowledge and skills needed for sustainable growth and innovation. We are delighted to expand its reach, further strengthening our commitment to supporting the regional business community and fostering a vibrant alumni network.”

Fiona McGonigle, Programme Manager and Business Engagement and Innovation Lead at ARU

“This unique programme helps share cutting-edge business models and novel research findings from academia directly to business executives. Our goal is to improve their enterprise innovation, profitability, and overall growth strategies.”

Dr Frank Nyame-Asiamah, Director of the Help to Grow: Management programme at ARU

The next course begins in Cambridge on 19 September 2025, with an additional cohort starting in Chelmsford on 9 January 2026.

For more information, contact [email protected]

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press Release – Adult Learning Needs Survey Tuesday 22 July 2025

Source: Channel Islands – States of Alderney

Press Release
Date: 22nd July 2025

Adult Learning Needs Survey

The Guernsey Institute has produced an Adult Learning Needs Survey which will be open to the public from Wednesday 16th July to Friday 15th August 2025.
The States of Alderney, in conjunction with the Guernsey Institute, is seeking the views of the community to assist in collecting information that will ensure the needs of the community are delivered.

Surveys can be collected from and returned to the General Office at the Island Hall.

Alternatively, a printer friendly version can be found in the download section of this page, and once completed, handed in to the General Office at the Island Hall.

Data Protection: This information will be processed in line with the Data Protection (Bailiwick of Guernsey) Law, 2017. For full details of our Data Processing Notice and how we look after your data please visit: www.alderney.gov.gg/dp

Ends

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ali Bowden, the first Director of Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature, to receive the Edinburgh Award 2025

Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

The first Director of Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Ali Bowden has been selected to receive the prestigious Edinburgh Award 2025.

The Edinburgh Award was established in 2007 to honour outstanding individuals who have made a positive impact on the city and gained national and international recognition for Edinburgh. Nominations are invited annually from Edinburgh citizens and the recipient is selected by the Civic Awards Committee. Previous recipients include bestselling authors, human rights activists and world-famous sportspeople.

Ali Bowden became Director of Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature in 2006, following a ten-year career in publishing, and was in the role for most of its 20-year history. Edinburgh became the world’s first UNESCO Creative City in 2004 and in the following years Ali helped to welcome new Cities of Literature as they joined, recruiting others from around the world in a bid to diversify the network. There are now 53 literary cities and more than 350 creative cities in seven artforms.

Ali will be presented with an engraved Loving Cup from the Lord Provost and have her handprints set in stone at the City Chambers later this year.

The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, and Chair of the Civic Award Committee, Robert Aldridge said:

Ali Bowden is a most deserved recipient of the Edinburgh Award, and I’m really pleased that she has accepted the Civic Awards Committee decision to present it to her.

Edinburgh blazed a trail when it became the first UNESCO Creative City in 2004 and with Ali at the helm for almost 20 years it has continued to flourish in this position.

Not only has Ali gone above and beyond to create a diverse and engaging range of projects and programmes to enhance the literary city, she has played a key role in connecting Edinburgh with other literary cities around the world.

I’d like to congratulate Ali on behalf of the city – we will all benefit from her legacy, which builds on the Capital’s rich literary heritage while also bringing reading and literature to new and varied audiences.

Ali’s work to promote and enhance Edinburgh as a literary city includes community-based writers’ residencies, the first citywide reading campaign, and the award-winning Great Scott! installation in Waverley railway station honouring Sir Walter Scott. She was also behind the Stars & Stories trail of illuminated quotations celebrating 500 years of Edinburgh’s publishing heritage, and an initiative with ETAG to promote literary tourism.

Ali has played a key role in making introductions, bringing opportunities and showcasing the work of writers, readers, booksellers, publishers, programmers and visitors to the benefit of Edinburgh’s literary scene.

After 18 years as Director of Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature, Ali stood down from the role in September 2024.

Ali Bowden said:

There’s no doubt that Edinburgh has stolen my heart, and I’ve happily spent the last few decades banging the drum for this impressive, bookish, story-filled and ever-changing city. I am humbled, honoured and delighted – in equal measure – to be receiving the Edinburgh Award. I know it’s only possible because of all the kind souls I’ve worked with over the years, on projects big and small, locally and internationally. All of them equally inspired by Edinburgh, this amazing, and first, City of Literature. Thank you all for doing a bit of hard work when I asked!

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Why London pays more for transport infrastructure projects
Source: Mayor of London

A study looking at tram, metro and rail projects across 14 countries, concluded that transport infrastructure of all kinds, from railways to roads, tramlines to Metros, are more expensive to build in the UK.¹

Britain Remade found Britain builds trams at twice the cost of the European average and almost four times the cost of trams in Germany. When it comes to electrifying railways, Britain pays three times more for a single mile of track than Germany. High Speed 2 (HS2) is expected to be nine times more expensive than the Tours to Bordeaux high speed line.²

According to reports, Madrid tripled the length of its metro system in just 12 years — faster and cheaper than almost any other city in the world. Madrid was reportedly able to build so much because of its low-cost approach: The 35-mile (56 kilometre) program of expansion between 1995 and 1999 cost around $2.8 billion (in 2024 prices). London’s Jubilee Line Extension, built at the same time as Madrid’s expansion, cost nearly ten times more per mile than Madrid’s program.³

Tomorrow, the London Assembly Budget and Performance Committee will hear from experts on why the cost for building transport infrastructure in the UK is much higher than neighbouring countries.

Guests are:
- Ben Hopkinson, Head of Housing & Infrastructure, Centre for Policy Studies
- Dr Alexander Budzier, Chief Executive Officer, Oxford Global Projects
- Gareth Dennis, Railway Engineer and writer, Railnatter
The meeting will take place on Wednesday 23 July 2025 from 10am in the Chamber at City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, E16 1ZE.

Media and members of the public are invited to attend.

The meeting can also be viewed LIVE or later via webcast or YouTube.

Follow us @LondonAssembly.
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai meets cross-party Irish Oireachtas delegation

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

Details
2025-07-22
President Lai meets official delegation from European Parliament’s Special Committee on the European Democracy Shield
On the morning of July 22, President Lai Ching-te met with an official delegation from the European Parliament’s Special Committee on the European Democracy Shield (EUDS). In remarks, President Lai thanked the committee for choosing to visit Taiwan for its first trip to Asia, demonstrating the close ties between Taiwan and Europe. President Lai emphasized that Taiwan, standing at the very frontline of the democratic world, is determined to protect democracy, peace, and prosperity worldwide. He expressed hope that we can share our experiences with Europe to foster even more resilient societies. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: Firstly, on behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend a warm welcome to your delegation, which marks another official visit from the European Parliament. The Special Committee on the EUDS aims to strengthen societal resilience and counter disinformation and hybrid threats. Having been constituted at the beginning of this year, the committee has chosen to visit Taiwan for its first trip to Asia, demonstrating the close ties between Taiwan and Europe and the unlimited possibilities for deepening cooperation on issues of concern. I am also delighted to see many old friends of Taiwan gathered here today. I deeply appreciate your longstanding support for Taiwan. Taiwan and the European Union enjoy close trade and economic relations and share the values of freedom and democracy. However, in recent years, we have both been subjected to information manipulation and infiltration by foreign forces that seek to interfere in democratic elections, foment division in our societies, and shake people’s faith in democracy. Taiwan not only faces an onslaught of disinformation, but also is the target of gray-zone aggression. That is why, after taking office, I established the Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee at the Presidential Office, with myself as convener. The committee is a platform that integrates domestic affairs, national defense, foreign affairs, cybersecurity, and civil resources. It aims to strengthen the capability of Taiwan’s society to defend itself against new forms of threat, pinpoint external and internal vulnerabilities, and bolster overall resilience and security. The efforts that democracies make are not for opposing anyone else; they are for safeguarding the way of life that we cherish – just as Europe has endeavored to promote diversity and human rights. The Taiwanese people firmly believe that when our society is united and people trust one another, we will be able to withstand any form of authoritarian aggression. Taiwan stands at the very frontline of the democratic world. We are determined to protect democracy, peace, and prosperity worldwide. We also hope to share our experiences with Europe and deepen cooperation in such fields as cybersecurity, media literacy, and societal resilience. Thank you once again for visiting Taiwan. Your presence further strengthens the foundations of Taiwan-Europe relations. Let us continue to work together to uphold freedom and democracy and foster even more resilient societies. EUDS Special Committee Chair Nathalie Loiseau then delivered remarks, saying that the delegation has members from different countries, including France, Germany, the Czech Republic, Poland, and Belgium, and different political parties, but that they have in common their desire for stronger relations between the EU and Taiwan. Committee Chair Loiseau stated that the EU and Taiwan, having many things in common, should work more together. She noted that we have strong trade relations, strong investments on both sides, and strong cultural relations, while we are also facing very similar challenges and threats. She said that we are democracies living in a world where autocracies want to weaken and divide democracies. She added that we also face external information manipulation, cyberattacks, sabotage, attempts to capture elites, and every single gray-zone activity that aims to divide and weaken us. Committee Chair Loiseau pointed out another commonality, that we have never threatened our neighbors. She said that we want to live in peace and we care about our people; we want to defend ourselves, not to attack others. We are not being threatened because of what we do, she emphasized, but because of what we are; and thus there is no reason for not working more together to face these threats and attacks. Committee Chair Loiseau said that Taiwan has valuable experience and good practices in the area of societal resilience, and that they are interested in learning more about Taiwan’s whole-of-society approach. They in Europe are facing interference, she said, mainly from Russia, and they know that Russia inspires others. She added that they in the EU also have experience regulating social media in a way which combines freedom of expression and responsibility. In closing, the chair said that they are happy to have the opportunity to exchange views with President Lai and that the European Parliament will continue to strongly support relations between the EU and Taiwan. The delegation also included Members of the European Parliament Engin Eroglu, Tomáš Zdechovský, Michał Wawrykiewicz, Kathleen Van Brempt, and Markéta Gregorová.

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2025-07-17
President Lai meets President of Guatemalan Congress Nery Abilio Ramos y Ramos
On the morning of July 17, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Nery Abilio Ramos y Ramos, the president of the Congress of the Republic of Guatemala. In remarks, President Lai thanked Congress President Ramos and the Guatemalan Congress for their support for Taiwan, and noted that official diplomatic relations between Taiwan and Guatemala go back more than 90 years. As important partners in the global democratic community, the president said, the two nations will continue moving forward together in joint defense of the values of democracy and freedom, and will cooperate to promote regional and global prosperity and development. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I recall that when Congress President Ramos visited Taiwan in July last year, he put forward many ideas about how our countries could promote bilateral cooperation and exchanges. Now, a year later, he is leading another cross-party delegation from the Guatemalan Congress on a visit, demonstrating support for Taiwan and continuing to help deepen our diplomatic ties. In addition to extending a sincere welcome to the distinguished delegation members who have traveled so far to be here, I would also like to express our concern and condolences for everyone in Guatemala affected by the earthquake that struck earlier this month. We hope that the recovery effort is going smoothly. Official diplomatic relations between Taiwan and Guatemala go back more than 90 years. In such fields as healthcare, agriculture, education, and women’s empowerment, we have continually strengthened our cooperation to benefit our peoples. Just last month, Guatemala’s President Bernardo Arévalo and the First Lady led a delegation on a state visit to Taiwan. President Arévalo and I signed a letter of intent for semiconductor cooperation, and also witnessed the signing of cooperation documents to establish a political consultation mechanism and continue to promote bilateral investment. This has laid an even sounder foundation for bilateral exchanges and cooperation, and will help enhance both countries’ international competitiveness. Taiwan is currently running a semiconductor vocational training program, helping Guatemala cultivate semiconductor talent and develop its tech industry, and demonstrating our determination to share experience with democratic partners. At the same time, we continue to assist Taiwanese businesses in their efforts to develop overseas markets with Guatemala as an important base, spurring industrial development in both countries and increasing economic and trade benefits. I want to thank Congress President Ramos and the Guatemalan Congress for their continued support for Taiwan’s international participation. Representing the Guatemalan Congress, Congress President Ramos has signed resolutions in support of Taiwan, and has also issued statements addressing China’s misinterpretation of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758. Taiwan and Guatemala, as important partners in the global democratic community, will continue moving forward together in joint defense of the values of democracy and freedom, and will cooperate to promote regional and global prosperity and development. Congress President Ramos then delivered remarks, first noting that the members of the delegation are not only from different parties, but also represent different classes, cultures, professions, and departments, which shows that the diplomatic ties between Guatemala and the Republic of China (Taiwan) are based on firm friendships at all levels and in all fields. Noting that this was his second time to visit Taiwan and meet with President Lai, Congress President Ramos thanked the government of Taiwan for its warm hospitality. With the international situation growing more complex by the day, he said, Guatemala highly values its longstanding friendship and cooperative ties with Taiwan, and hopes that both sides can continue to deepen their cooperation in such areas as the economy, technology, education, agriculture, and culture, and work together to spur sustainable development in each of our countries. Congress President Ramos said that the way the Taiwan government looks after the well-being of its people is an excellent model for how other countries should promote national development and social well-being. Accordingly, he said, the Guatemalan Congress has stood for justice and, for a second time, adopted a resolution backing Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Assembly. Regarding President Arévalo’s state visit to Taiwan the previous month, Congress President Ramos commented that this high-level interaction has undoubtedly strengthened the diplomatic ties between Taiwan and Guatemala and led to more opportunities for cooperation. Congress President Ramos emphasized that democracy, freedom, and human rights are universal values that bind Taiwan and Guatemala together, and that he is confident the two countries’ diplomatic ties will continue to grow deeper. In closing, on behalf of the Republic of Guatemala, Congress President Ramos presented President Lai with a Chinese translation of the resolution that the Guatemalan Congress proposed to the UN in support of Taiwan’s participation in international organizations, demonstrating the staunch bonds of friendship between the two countries. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Guatemala Ambassador Luis Raúl Estévez López.

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2025-07-08
President Lai meets delegation led by Foreign Minister Jean-Victor Harvel Jean-Baptiste of Republic of Haiti
On the morning of July 8, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Minister of Foreign Affairs Jean-Victor Harvel Jean-Baptiste of the Republic of Haiti and his wife. In remarks, President Lai noted that our two countries will soon mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations and that our exchanges have been fruitful in important areas such as public security, educational cooperation, and infrastructure. The president stated that Taiwan will continue to work together with Haiti to promote the development of medical and health care, food security, and construction that benefits people’s livelihoods. The president thanked Haiti for supporting Taiwan’s international participation and expressed hope that both countries will continue to support each other, deepen cooperation, and face various challenges together. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I am delighted to meet and exchange ideas with Minister Jean-Baptiste, his wife, and our distinguished guests. Minister Jean-Baptiste is the highest-ranking official from Haiti to visit Taiwan since former President Jovenel Moïse visited in 2018, demonstrating the importance that the Haitian government attaches to our bilateral diplomatic ties. On behalf of the Republic of China (Taiwan), I extend a sincere welcome. Next year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between our two countries. Our bilateral exchanges have been fruitful in important areas such as public security, educational cooperation, and infrastructure. Over the past few years, Haiti has faced challenges in such areas as food supply and healthcare. Taiwan will continue to work together with Haiti through various cooperative programs to promote the development of medical and health care, food security, and construction that benefits people’s livelihoods. I want to thank the government of Haiti and Minister Jean-Baptiste for speaking out in support of Taiwan on the international stage for many years. Minister Jean-Baptiste’s personal letter to the World Health Organization Secretariat in May this year and Minister of Public Health and Population Bertrand Sinal’s public statement during the World Health Assembly both affirmed Taiwan’s efforts and contributions to global public health and supported Taiwan’s international participation, for which we are very grateful. I hope that Taiwan and Haiti will continue to support each other and deepen cooperation. I believe that Minister Jean-Baptiste’s visit will open up more opportunities for cooperation for both countries, helping Taiwan and Haiti face various challenges together. In closing, I once again offer a sincere welcome to the delegation led by Minister Jean-Baptiste, and ask him to convey greetings from Taiwan to Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé and the members of the Transitional Presidential Council. Minister Jean-Baptiste then delivered remarks, saying that he is extremely honored to visit Taiwan and reaffirm the solid and friendly cooperative relationship based on mutual respect between the Republic of Haiti and the Republic of China (Taiwan), which will soon mark its 70th anniversary. He also brought greetings to President Lai from Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council and Prime Minister Fils-Aimé. Minister Jean-Baptiste emphasized that over the past few decades, despite the great geographical distance and developmental and cultural differences between our two countries, we have nevertheless established a firm friendship and demonstrated to the world the progress resulting from the mutual assistance and cooperation between our peoples. Minister Jean-Baptiste pointed out that our two countries cooperate closely in agriculture, health, education, and community development and have achieved concrete results. Taiwan’s voice, he said, is thus essential for the people of Haiti. He noted that Taiwan also plays an important role in peace and innovation and actively participates in global cooperative efforts. Pointing out that the world is currently facing significant challenges and that Haiti is experiencing its most difficult period in history, Minister Jean-Baptiste said that at this time, Taiwan and Haiti need to unite, help each other, and jointly think about how to move forward and deepen bilateral relations to benefit the peoples of both countries. Minister Jean-Baptiste said that he is pleased that throughout our solid and friendly diplomatic relationship, both countries have demonstrated mutual trust, mutual respect, and the values we jointly defend. He then stated his belief that Haiti and Taiwan will together create a cooperation model and future that are sincere, friendly, and sustainable. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Chargé d’Affaires a.i. Francilien Victorin of the Embassy of the Republic of Haiti in Taiwan.

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2025-07-01
President Lai meets delegation from 2025 Taiwan International Ocean Forum
On the afternoon of July 1, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation from the 2025 Taiwan International Ocean Forum (TIOF). In remarks, President Lai noted that the people of Taiwan will continue to work with democratic partners throughout the world in a maritime spirit of freedom and openness to contribute to ocean governance and jointly ensure maritime security. He expressed hope that their visit will help forge stronger friendships between Taiwan and international maritime partners, so that all can work together to spur shared maritime prosperity and sustainable development for the next generation. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I want to thank our guests for coming here to the Presidential Office. The 2025 TIOF will take place tomorrow and the day after, and I thank you all for making the long trip to Taiwan to attend the event and share your valuable insights and experiences. This year’s forum will focus on strategies for strengthening maritime security and pathways to achieving a sustainable blue economy. By attending this forum, our guests are highlighting their commitment to safeguarding the oceans, and beyond that, taking concrete action to demonstrate support for Taiwan. I once again offer deepest gratitude on behalf of the people of Taiwan. Taiwan holds a key position on the first island chain, is one of the world’s top 10 shipping nations, and accounts for close to 10 percent of global container shipping by volume. As such, Taiwan occupies a unique and important position in maritime strategy. For Taiwan, the ocean is more than just a basis for survival and development; it is also an important driver of national prosperity. In my inaugural address last year, I spoke of a threefold approach to further Taiwan’s development. One of these involves further developing our strengths as a maritime nation. Our government must actively help deepen our connections with the ocean, and must continue to promote green shipping, a sustainable fishing industry, marine renewable energy, and other forms of industrial transformation. It must also make use of marine technology and digital innovation to create a new paradigm that balances environmental, economic, and social inclusion concerns. This will help enhance Taiwan’s responsibilities and competitiveness as a maritime nation. Taiwan is surrounded by ocean, and our territorial waters are a natural protective barrier. However, continued gray-zone aggression from China creates serious threats and challenges to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Our government continues to invest resources to deal with increasingly complex maritime security issues. In addition to building coast guard patrol vessels, we must also step up efforts to build underwater, surface, and airborne unmanned vehicles and smart reconnaissance equipment, so as to demonstrate Taiwan’s determination to defend democracy and freedom and commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Oceans are Taiwan’s roots, and provide the channels by which we engage with the world. The people of Taiwan will continue to work with democratic partners throughout the world in a maritime spirit of freedom and openness to contribute to ocean governance and jointly ensure maritime security. The TIOF was first launched in 2020, and has now become an important platform for enhancement of cooperation between Taiwan and other countries. I hope that our distinguished guests will reap great benefits at this year’s forum, and further hope that this visit will help forge stronger friendships between Taiwan and international maritime partners, so that all can work together to spur shared maritime prosperity and sustainable development for the next generation. Chairman of The Washington Times Thomas McDevitt, a member of the delegation, then delivered remarks, noting first that July 4th, this Friday, is Independence Day in America. Independence is a sacred, powerful word which has great meaning in this part of the world, he said. Chairman McDevitt indicated that Taiwan has truly become a global beacon of democracy and a key partner for many nations. He then quoted President Lai’s 2024 inaugural address: “We will work together to combat disinformation, strengthen democratic resilience, address challenges, and allow Taiwan to become the MVP of the democratic world.” Chairman McDevitt went on to say that he appreciated the president’s speech with regard to his philosophical depth, sensitivity, and both moral and political clarity. He said that he was deeply moved by the speech, but within a few days of it, China responded with military activities and many threats. The chairman then emphasized that we are in a civilization crisis. Chairman McDevitt mentioned that President Lai has begun a series of 10 lectures, and remarked that they would help the world to understand the identity and the nature of Taiwan, as well as the situation we are in in the world. On behalf of all the delegation, Chairman McDevitt thanked the president for his leadership in dealing with these issues thoughtfully. Chairman McDevitt concluded with a line from the Old Testament which states that if the people have no vision, they will perish. He said that he believes Taiwan’s president has led the people of Taiwan, and the world, with a vision of how to navigate this great civilization crisis together. The delegation also included Members of the Japanese House of Representatives Kikawada Hitoshi, Aoyama Yamato, and Genma Kentaro, and Member of Parliament of the United Kingdom Gavin Williamson.

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2025-06-30
President Lai meets Minister of State at UK Department for Business and Trade Douglas Alexander
On the morning of June 30, President Lai Ching-te met with Douglas Alexander, Minister of State at the Department for Business and Trade of the United Kingdom. In remarks, President Lai thanked the UK government for its longstanding support for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, demonstrating that Taiwan and the UK share similar goals. Noting that two years ago, Taiwan and the UK signed an enhanced trade partnership (ETP) arrangement, the president said that today Taiwan and the UK have signed three pillars under the ETP, which will help promote bilateral economic and trade cooperation. He expressed hope of the UK publicly supporting Taiwan’s accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) so that together we can create an economic and trade landscape in the Indo-Pacific characterized by shared prosperity and development. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: First, on behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend a warm welcome to Minister Alexander and wish a fruitful outcome for the 27th round of Taiwan-UK trade talks later today. Taiwan-UK relations have grown closer in recent years. We have not only continued to strengthen cooperation in such fields as offshore wind power, innovative technologies, and culture and education but also have established regular dialogue mechanisms in the critical areas of economics and trade, energy, and agriculture. The UK is currently Taiwan’s fourth-largest European trading partner, second-largest source of investment from Europe, and third-largest target for investment in Europe. Two years ago, Taiwan and the UK signed an ETP arrangement. This was particularly meaningful, as it was the first institutionalized economic and trade framework between Taiwan and a European country. Today, this arrangement is yielding further results. I am delighted that Taiwan and the UK have signed three pillars under the ETP covering investment, digital trade, and energy and net-zero. This will help promote bilateral economic and trade cooperation and advance industrial development on both sides. I also want to thank the UK government for its longstanding support for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. This month, the UK published its Strategic Defence Review 2025 and National Security Strategy 2025, which oppose any unilateral attempts to change the status quo across the Taiwan Strait. These not only demonstrate that Taiwan and the UK share similar goals but also show that security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region are inseparable from those of the transatlantic regions. In addition, last November, the House of Commons passed a motion which made clear that United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution 2758 neither established the sovereignty of the People’s Republic of China over Taiwan nor determined Taiwan’s status in the United Nations. The UK government also responded to the motion by publicly expressing for the first time its position on UNGA Resolution 2758, opposing any attempt to broaden the interpretation of the resolution to rewrite history. For this, on behalf of the people of Taiwan, I once again want to extend my deepest gratitude. Taiwan and the UK have the advantage of being highly complementary in the technology sector. In facing the restructuring of global supply chains and other international economic and trade developments, I believe that Taiwan and the UK are indispensable key partners for one another. I look forward to the UK publicly supporting Taiwan’s accession to the CPTPP so that together, we can create an economic and trade landscape in the Indo-Pacific characterized by shared prosperity and development. In closing, I wish Minister Alexander a pleasant and successful visit. And I hope he has the opportunity to visit Taiwan for personal travel in the future. Minister Alexander then delivered remarks, saying that it is a great personal honor to meet with everyone today to discuss further deepening the UK-Taiwan trade relationship and explore the many opportunities our two sides can pursue together. He mentioned that he traveled to Taiwan in 2022 when he was a private citizen, a visit he thoroughly enjoyed, so he is delighted to be back to see the strength of the UK-Taiwan relationship and the strengthening of that relationship. He said that relationship is built on mutual respect, democratic values, and a shared vision for open, resilient, and rules-based economic cooperation. As like-minded partners, he pointed out, our collaboration continues to grow across multiple sectors, and he is here today to further that momentum. Minister Alexander stated that on trade and investment, he is proud that this morning we signed the ETP Pillars on Investment, Digital Trade, Energy and Net Zero, which will provide a clear framework for our future cooperation and lay the foundation for expanded access and market-shaping engagement between our two economies. The minister said he believes that together with our annual trade talks, this partnership will help UK’s firms secure new commercial opportunities, improve regulatory alignment, and promote long-term investment in key growth areas, which in turn will also support Taiwan’s efforts to expand high-quality trade relationships with trusted partners. Minister Alexander said that President Lai’s promotion of the Five Trusted Industry Sectors and the UK’s recently published industrial and trade strategies are very well-aligned, as both cover clean energy and semiconductors as well as advanced manufacturing. He then provided an example, saying that both sides plan to invest in AI infrastructure and compute power-creating opportunities for great joint research in the future. By combining our strengths in these areas, he said, we can open the door to innovative collaboration and commercial success for both sides. He mentioned that yesterday he visited the Taiwan Space Agency, commenting that in sectors such as satellite technology, green energy, and cyber security, British expertise and trusted standards can provide meaningful solutions. Noting that President Lai spoke in his remarks of the broader challenge of peace and security in the region, Minister Alexander stated that the United Kingdom has, of course, also continued to affirm its commitment to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, along with its G7 partners. The UK-Taiwan relationship is strategic, enduring, and growing, he stated, and they reaffirm and remain firm in their longstanding position and confident in their ability to work together to support both prosperity and resilience in both of our societies. Minister Alexander said that, as Taiwan looks to diversify capital and build global partnerships, they believe the UK represents a strong and ambitious investment destination, particularly for Taiwanese companies at the very forefront of robotics, clean tech, and advanced industry. He pointed out that the UK’s markets are stable, open, and aligned with Taiwan’s vision of a high-tech, sustainable future, adding that he looks forward to our discussion on how we can further deepen our cooperation across all of these areas and more. The delegation also included Martin Kent, His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Asia Pacific at the UK Department for Business and Trade. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by British Office Taipei Representative Ruth Bradley-Jones.

Details
2025-05-20
President Lai interviewed by Nippon Television and Yomiuri TV
In a recent interview on Nippon Television’s news zero program, President Lai Ching-te responded to questions from host Mr. Sakurai Sho and Yomiuri TV Shanghai Bureau Chief Watanabe Masayo on topics including reflections on his first year in office, cross-strait relations, China’s military threats, Taiwan-United States relations, and Taiwan-Japan relations. The interview was broadcast on the evening of May 19. During the interview, President Lai stated that China intends to change the world’s rules-based international order, and that if Taiwan were invaded, global supply chains would be disrupted. Therefore, he said, Taiwan will strengthen its national defense, prevent war by preparing for war, and achieve the goal of peace. The president also noted that Taiwan’s purpose for developing drones is based on national security and industrial needs, and that Taiwan hopes to collaborate with Japan. He then reiterated that China’s threats are an international problem, and expressed hope to work together with the US, Japan, and others in the global democratic community to prevent China from starting a war. Following is the text of the questions and the president’s responses: Q: How do you feel as you are about to round out your first year in office? President Lai: When I was young, I was determined to practice medicine and save lives. When I left medicine to go into politics, I was determined to transform Taiwan. And when I was sworn in as president on May 20 last year, I was determined to strengthen the nation. Time flies, and it has already been a year. Although the process has been very challenging, I am deeply honored to be a part of it. I am also profoundly grateful to our citizens for allowing me the opportunity to give back to our country. The future will certainly be full of more challenges, but I will do everything I can to unite the people and continue strengthening the nation. That is how I am feeling now. Q: We are now coming up on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, and over this period, we have often heard that conflict between Taiwan and the mainland is imminent. Do you personally believe that a cross-strait conflict could happen? President Lai: The international community is very much aware that China intends to replace the US and change the world’s rules-based international order, and annexing Taiwan is just the first step. So, as China’s military power grows stronger, some members of the international community are naturally on edge about whether a cross-strait conflict will break out. The international community must certainly do everything in its power to avoid a conflict in the Taiwan Strait; there is too great a cost. Besides causing direct disasters to both Taiwan and China, the impact on the global economy would be even greater, with estimated losses of US$10 trillion from war alone – that is roughly 10 percent of the global GDP. Additionally, 20 percent of global shipping passes through the Taiwan Strait and surrounding waters, so if a conflict breaks out in the strait, other countries including Japan and Korea would suffer a grave impact. For Japan and Korea, a quarter of external transit passes through the Taiwan Strait and surrounding waters, and a third of the various energy resources and minerals shipped back from other countries pass through said areas. If Taiwan were invaded, global supply chains would be disrupted, and therefore conflict in the Taiwan Strait must be avoided. Such a conflict is indeed avoidable. I am very thankful to Prime Minister of Japan Ishiba Shigeru and former Prime Ministers Abe Shinzo, Suga Yoshihide, and Kishida Fumio, as well as US President Donald Trump and former President Joe Biden, and the other G7 leaders, for continuing to emphasize at international venues that peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait are essential components for global security and prosperity. When everyone in the global democratic community works together, stacking up enough strength to make China’s objectives unattainable or to make the cost of invading Taiwan too high for it to bear, a conflict in the strait can naturally be avoided. Q: As you said, President Lai, maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is also very important for other countries. How can war be avoided? What sort of countermeasures is Taiwan prepared to take to prevent war? President Lai: As Mr. Sakurai mentioned earlier, we are coming up on the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. There are many lessons we can take from that war. First is that peace is priceless, and war has no winners. From the tragedies of WWII, there are lessons that humanity should learn. We must pursue peace, and not start wars blindly, as that would be a major disaster for humanity. In other words, we must be determined to safeguard peace. The second lesson is that we cannot be complacent toward authoritarian powers. If you give them an inch, they will take a mile. They will keep growing, and eventually, not only will peace be unattainable, but war will be inevitable. The third lesson is why WWII ended: It ended because different groups joined together in solidarity. Taiwan, Japan, and the Indo-Pacific region are all directly subjected to China’s threats, so we hope to be able to join together in cooperation. This is why we proposed the Four Pillars of Peace action plan. First, we will strengthen our national defense. Second, we will strengthen economic resilience. Third is standing shoulder to shoulder with the democratic community to demonstrate the strength of deterrence. Fourth is that as long as China treats Taiwan with parity and dignity, Taiwan is willing to conduct exchanges and cooperate with China, and seek peace and mutual prosperity. These four pillars can help us avoid war and achieve peace. That is to say, Taiwan hopes to achieve peace through strength, prevent war by preparing for war, keeping war from happening and pursuing the goal of peace. Q: Regarding drones, everyone knows that recently, Taiwan has been actively researching, developing, and introducing drones. Why do you need to actively research, develop, and introduce new drones at this time? President Lai: This is for two purposes. The first is to meet national security needs. The second is to meet industrial development needs. Because Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines are all part of the first island chain, and we are all democratic nations, we cannot be like an authoritarian country like China, which has an unlimited national defense budget. In this kind of situation, island nations such as Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines should leverage their own technologies to develop national defense methods that are asymmetric and utilize unmanned vehicles. In particular, from the Russo-Ukrainian War, we see that Ukraine has successfully utilized unmanned vehicles to protect itself and prevent Russia from unlimited invasion. In other words, the Russo-Ukrainian War has already proven the importance of drones. Therefore, the first purpose of developing drones is based on national security needs. Second, the world has already entered the era of smart technology. Whether generative, agentic, or physical, AI will continue to develop. In the future, cars and ships will also evolve into unmanned vehicles and unmanned boats, and there will be unmanned factories. Drones will even be able to assist with postal deliveries, or services like Uber, Uber Eats, and foodpanda, or agricultural irrigation and pesticide spraying. Therefore, in the future era of comprehensive smart technology, developing unmanned vehicles is a necessity. Taiwan, based on industrial needs, is actively planning the development of drones and unmanned vehicles. I would like to take this opportunity to express Taiwan’s hope to collaborate with Japan in the unmanned vehicle industry. Just as we do in the semiconductor industry, where Japan has raw materials, equipment, and technology, and Taiwan has wafer manufacturing, our two countries can cooperate. Japan is a technological power, and Taiwan also has significant technological strengths. If Taiwan and Japan work together, we will not only be able to safeguard peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and security in the Indo-Pacific region, but it will also be very helpful for the industrial development of both countries. Q: The drones you just described probably include examples from the Russo-Ukrainian War. Taiwan and China are separated by the Taiwan Strait. Do our drones need to have cross-sea flight capabilities? President Lai: Taiwan does not intend to counterattack the mainland, and does not intend to invade any country. Taiwan’s drones are meant to protect our own nation and territory. Q: Former President Biden previously stated that US forces would assist Taiwan’s defense in the event of an attack. President Trump, however, has yet to clearly state that the US would help defend Taiwan. Do you think that in such an event, the US would help defend Taiwan? Or is Taiwan now trying to persuade the US? President Lai: Former President Biden and President Trump have answered questions from reporters. Although their responses were different, strong cooperation with Taiwan under the Biden administration has continued under the Trump administration; there has been no change. During President Trump’s first term, cooperation with Taiwan was broader and deeper compared to former President Barack Obama’s terms. After former President Biden took office, cooperation with Taiwan increased compared to President Trump’s first term. Now, during President Trump’s second term, cooperation with Taiwan is even greater than under former President Biden. Taiwan-US cooperation continues to grow stronger, and has not changed just because President Trump and former President Biden gave different responses to reporters. Furthermore, the Trump administration publicly stated that in the future, the US will shift its strategic focus from Europe to the Indo-Pacific. The US secretary of defense even publicly stated that the primary mission of the US is to prevent China from invading Taiwan, maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific, and thus maintain world peace. There is a saying in Taiwan that goes, “Help comes most to those who help themselves.” Before asking friends and allies for assistance in facing threats from China, Taiwan must first be determined and prepared to defend itself. This is Taiwan’s principle, and we are working in this direction, making all the necessary preparations to safeguard the nation. Q: I would like to ask you a question about Taiwan-Japan relations. After the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, you made an appeal to give Japan a great deal of assistance and care. In particular, you visited Sendai to offer condolences. Later, you also expressed condolences and concern after the earthquakes in Aomori and Kumamoto. What are your expectations for future Taiwan-Japan exchanges and development? President Lai: I come from Tainan, and my constituency is in Tainan. Tainan has very deep ties with Japan, and of course, Taiwan also has deep ties with Japan. However, among Taiwan’s 22 counties and cities, Tainan has the deepest relationship with Japan. I sincerely hope that both of you and your teams will have an opportunity to visit Tainan. I will introduce Tainan’s scenery, including architecture from the era of Japanese rule, Tainan’s cuisine, and unique aspects of Tainan society, and you can also see lifestyles and culture from the Showa era. The Wushantou Reservoir in Tainan was completed by engineer Mr. Hatta Yoichi from Kanazawa, Japan and the team he led to Tainan after he graduated from then-Tokyo Imperial University. It has nearly a century of history and is still in use today. This reservoir, along with the 16,000-km-long Chianan Canal, transformed the 150,000-hectare Chianan Plain into Taiwan’s premier rice-growing area. It was that foundation in agriculture that enabled Taiwan to develop industry and the technology sector of today. The reservoir continues to supply water to Tainan Science Park. It is used by residents of Tainan, the agricultural sector, and industry, and even the technology sector in Xinshi Industrial Park, as well as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company. Because of this, the people of Tainan are deeply grateful for Mr. Hatta and very friendly toward the people of Japan. A major earthquake, the largest in 50 years, struck Tainan on February 6, 2016, resulting in significant casualties. As mayor of Tainan at the time, I was extremely grateful to then-Prime Minister Abe, who sent five Japanese officials to the disaster site in Tainan the day after the earthquake. They were very thoughtful and asked what kind of assistance we needed from the Japanese government. They offered to provide help based on what we needed. I was deeply moved, as former Prime Minister Abe showed such care, going beyond the formality of just sending supplies that we may or may not have actually needed. Instead, the officials asked what we needed and then provided assistance based on those needs, which really moved me. Similarly, when the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011 or the later Kumamoto earthquakes struck, the people of Tainan, under my leadership, naturally and dutifully expressed their support. Even earlier, when central Taiwan was hit by a major earthquake in 1999, Japan was the first country to deploy a rescue team to the disaster area. On February 6, 2018, after a major earthquake in Hualien, former Prime Minister Abe appeared in a video holding up a message of encouragement he had written in calligraphy saying “Remain strong, Taiwan.” All of Taiwan was deeply moved. Over the years, Taiwan and Japan have supported each other when earthquakes struck, and have forged bonds that are family-like, not just neighborly. This is truly valuable. In the future, I hope Taiwan and Japan can be like brothers, and that the peoples of Taiwan and Japan can treat one another like family. If Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem; if Japan has a problem, then Taiwan has a problem. By caring for and helping each other, we can face various challenges and difficulties, and pursue a brighter future. Q: President Lai, you just used the phrase “If Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem.” In the event that China attempts to invade Taiwan by force, what kind of response measures would you hope the US military and Japan’s Self-Defense Forces take? President Lai: As I just mentioned, annexing Taiwan is only China’s first step. Its ultimate objective is to change the rules-based international order. That being the case, China’s threats are an international problem. So, I would very much hope to work together with the US, Japan, and others in the global democratic community to prevent China from starting a war – prevention, after all, is more important than cure.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI: Recording of LHV Group’s 22 July investor webinar

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

To give an overview of the 2025 Q2 financial results, LHV Group organised an investor meeting webinar on 22 July. An overview of the company’s progress was given by Madis Toomsalu, former Chairman of the Management Board of LHV Group, Mihkel Torim, Chairman of the Management Board of LHV Group, and Meelis Paakspuu, CFO of LHV Group.

The live coverage was followed by 32 participants, the live feed of the presentation was broadcast over Zoom.

Recording of the investor meeting (in Estonian) is available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4HRsdcw4O_c

Presentation (in English) at: www.lhv.ee/assets/files/investor/LHV_Group_Investoresitlus_2025-Q2_EN.pdf

LHV Group is the largest domestic financial group and capital provider in Estonia. LHV Group’s key subsidiaries are LHV Pank, LHV Varahaldus, LHV Kindlustus, and LHV Bank Limited. The Group employs over 1,100 people. As at the end of June, LHV Pank services are being used by 474,000 clients, the pension funds managed by LHV have 110,000 active clients, and LHV Kindlustus protects a total of 176,000 clients. LHV Bank Limited, a subsidiary of the Group, holds a banking licence in the United Kingdom and provides banking services to international financial technology companies, as well as loans to small and medium-sized enterprises.

Investor Relations

Sten Hans Jakobsoo
Head of Investor Relations and Corporate Development
Email: stenhans.jakobsoo@lhv.ee

Communications

Paul Pihlak
Head of Investment Communications
Email: paul.pihlak@lhv.ee

The MIL Network –

July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI NGOs: Greenpeace calls for drastic cut in plastic production as new report reveals millions at risk of toxic air pollution exposure
Source: Greenpeace Statement –

Amsterdam, The Netherlands – A new Greenpeace International report released today reveals that over 50 million people in 11 countries [1] are at risk of exposure to hazardous air pollution from plastic linked petrochemical production. The findings intensify pressure on negotiators at the Global Plastics Treaty talks in Geneva to secure a treaty that tackles the problem at its source: plastic production.

Graham Forbes, Global Plastics Campaign Lead for Greenpeace USA and Greenpeace Head of Delegation for the Global Plastics Treaty negotiation said: “What this report shows is that the plastics crisis is a public health emergency. The Global Plastics Treaty must deliver a 75% cut in plastic production by 2040 to reduce escalating threats to human and planetary health. People are being poisoned so fossil fuel and petrochemical companies can churn out more unnecessary plastic. Without a treaty that cuts production, the plastic crisis will only grow worse.”

The report, Every Breath You Take: Air Pollution Risks from Petrochemicals Production for the Plastics Supply Chain, shifts the lens to midstream level plastic production—to the petrochemical plants that produce precursors to plastic and expose frontline communities living near to these facilities who are potentially facing exposure to dangerous air pollutants.

During the production of feedstock, petrochemical facilities emit a suite of harmful airborne substances typically including Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), and sulfur oxides (SOₓ) and particulate matter (PM). Studies report higher concentrations of these pollutants near petrochemical facilities, with proximity linked to increased illness—raising a serious cause for concern.

Key findings from the report include:
- Over 51 million people in the 11 countries studied live within 10 km of plastics-linked petrochemical facilities; 16 million live within 5 km. In every country studied, residential areas lie within 10 km of plastic-linked petrochemical plants.
- The United States has the highest number of people living at a distance that is linked to elevated risk—13 million, especially in Texas and Louisiana.
- One in four people in the Netherlands live at a distance that is linked to elevated risk of exposure to air pollution emissions, including toxic emissions, from petrochemical plants. It has the highest proportion of its population at risk with 4.5 million people or 25.6% of the entire population within the exposure zones assessed in the analysis. The country with the second highest proportion is Switzerland at 10.9% of the population.
- The pollution created by some petrochemical plants in the regions reviewed for the report is transboundary. Several plants are located in border zones, affecting communities in Austria, Poland, Singapore, Belgium, France and Germany.[2]
- In documented case studies, communities near petrochemical facilities suffer disproportionately from cancer, respiratory disease, and premature death. The UN has labeled some of these areas “sacrifice zones.”
The report also warns of industry plans to expand global plastic production through 2050, which would create more sacrifice zones, more waste exported to low-income countries, and more short-lived products driving the climate, health and waste crisis.

The global Greenpeace network is demanding that the Global Plastics Treaty must reduce plastic production by at least 75% by 2040 to protect people’s health, the climate and the environment. The next round of negotiations will happen on August 5 to 14, 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland.

ENDS

Full report: Every Breath You Take: Air Pollution Risks from Petrochemicals Production for the Plastics Supply Chain

Photos and videos can be accessed in the Greenpeace Media Library.

Interactive maps of petrochemical production zones

Notes:

[1] The report, Every Breath You Take: Air Pollution Risks from Petrochemicals Production for the Plastics Supply Chain, identified the locations of petrochemical facilities linked to plastics in 11 countries: Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, South Korea, Canada, USA, Germany, United Kingdom, Switzerland, and the Netherlands. The countries were selected because of their significant petrochemical presence or association with major plastic-related concerns.

[2] The transboundary zones include populations in Austria and Poland (from German facilities), Singapore (from Malaysian facilities) Belgium and Germany (from Dutch facilities) France and Germany (from Swiss facilities).

Contacts:

Angelica Carballo Pago, Global Plastics Campaign Media Lead, Greenpeace USA, +63 917 1124492, [email protected]

Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), [email protected]
MIL OSI NGO –
July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Youth summer programs in full swing at National Aquatics Center

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

[Photo provided to China.org.cn]

The National Aquatics Center in Beijing is bustling this summer as it welcomes young people to a wide range of sports programs. From ice skating and swimming to dance and science camps, the venue is offering diverse options to help children stay active, learn new skills and enjoy the summer break.

Ice skating has emerged as the most popular choice this year. The venue is running more than 10 small-group classes for young participants of varying ages and skill levels. Enrollment has jumped nearly 70% compared to earlier in the year, with all training sessions on the center’s 1,830-square-meter standard rink.

[Photo provided to China.org.cn]

Swimming courses and group training camps at the venue are also drawing large numbers of students. To ensure a focused training environment, the venue’s swimming pool is closed to the public on weekday mornings and reserved exclusively for instruction.

Indoor kayaking has also returned to the venue’s summer lineup, allowing young participants to try paddle sports in a controlled environment while avoiding sun exposure and seasonal allergens.

[Photo provided to China.org.cn]

Beyond ice and water sports, the venue is also offering a range of other programs to support youth development. These include dance, tennis and physical fitness classes tailored to school-aged children.

The Water Cube Dance Studio launched a Chinese dance summer camp in July to help students prepare for graded examinations and improve their technique. The venue’s youth development club has also introduced other camp options, including science research, project-based learning programs, drone and model aircraft building, and nature journaling to help students explore interests and develop skills. An overnight camp with Olympic-themed activities is also available.

The diversification reflects the venue’s strategy to maximize year-round use of its dual-Olympic legacy and develop it as a hub for youth development each summer.

MIL OSI China News –

July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Long-stay tourism boom ignites ‘cool economy’ in highlands

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

A drone photo taken on July 18, 2025 shows a local Yizu Dage team performing during a parade show on the ancient street of Nanzhao in Weishan Yi and Hui Autonomous County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China’s Yunnan Province. (Xinhua/Peng Yikai)

At his guesthouse in southwest China’s Kunming, Zhang Cheng wiped down the counter in preparation for the next wave of arrivals, as the country’s highland summer migration unfolded, a seasonal drift measured not in days but in months.

“Since summer began, we’ve had almost no vacancies,” he said. A steady stream of guests from the sweltering nearby regions of Sichuan and Chongqing is replacing the usual ebb and flow of tourists in this capital city of Yunnan Province.

As scorching heat blankets much of China, Yunnan and Guizhou provinces, with average summer temperatures of 15 to 21 degrees Celsius, are experiencing the explosive growth of “cool summer residencies.”

Yunnan alone hosted 2.8 million long-stay visitors in the first half of 2025, a surge of 45.4 percent year on year. These visitors stayed an average of 91 days, 11 days longer than the previous year.

In the province’s Qujing City, famed for its cooler summers, companies like Licheng Residential Leasing are transforming idle homes into managed residences. This summer, Licheng has provided over 100 beds and three meals daily through contracted residential homes in the city’s Niujie community, hosting over 200 guests so far.

Industry experts believe that traditional tourism often funnels spending into transportation and tickets, limiting local economic benefits, whereas tourism engaging local residents retains more spending within the community.

In Qujing, for example, dining accounts for 40 percent of long-stay visitors’ spending, vastly exceeding the 10 percent typical of short-stay tourists. The city welcomed 2 million long-stay visitors in last summer, peaking at 270,000 daily, generating 23.6 billion yuan (around 3.3 billion U.S. dollars) in revenue.

Leveraging its national forest park, Xishui County in Guizhou has developed 28 summer residence projects across six townships, now housing 36,000 households, mostly from other provinces. Since June, hotels and homestays have reported peak seasons.

Dai Bin, head of the China Tourism Academy, highlighted the shift of the tourism model “from simply leveraging cool climates to integrating culture, wellness and learning.” He cited the example of children joining forest rangers for plant identification in a nature science camp while parents learn local crafts, as well as one in Yunnan’s Dali that combines cool air with holistic healing through yoga in the forest.

Recognizing the potential, China’s National Development and Reform Commission issued guidelines in 2023 to boost summer tourism, urging better products and infrastructure.

According to Rao Xiangbi, deputy director of Yunnan’s culture and tourism department, long-stay visitors now flock not just from nearby Sichuan and Chongqing, but increasingly from Guangdong, Zhejiang, and even the northernmost Heilongjiang Province, with over 80 percent being young and middle-aged people.

Experts from the United Nations World Tourism Organization have noted that such climate-adaptive tourism is a growing necessity globally and is poised to become a defining future trend as climate change intensifies.

MIL OSI China News –

July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Solaris Announces Final Genesis Event Offering: $1 Token Price for Last 100 Participants
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

TALLINN, Estonia, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Every altcoin season brings surprises. Some coins pump on pure hype. Others, like Bitcoin Solaris, are building real momentum by delivering on tech, scalability, and accessibility. The crypto market is once again heating up with investors racing to secure what could be the next big success story. Unlike overhyped projects riding temporary waves, Bitcoin Solaris has built its case on solid fundamentals. Its Genesis Event is currently rolling back the price from $13 to just $1 for a very short time, giving early investors a shot at a 1900% ROI before launch.

With just 100 slots left, this is the kind of opportunity that feels like Bitcoin’s early days repeating themselves, but with modern tech, faster performance, and mobile-first accessibility at the heart of its offering. This is why so many crypto enthusiasts are now focusing on BTC-S as their top altcoin pick for serious long-term potential.

Bitcoin Solaris: A Scalable, Mobile-First Future for Wealth Generation

Bitcoin Solaris is not just another altcoin chasing trends. Its core technology is designed to solve the issues Bitcoin never could. Through its dual-consensus architecture, Bitcoin Solaris offers 10,000+ transactions per second, validator rotation for fairness and security, and energy efficiency 99.95% greater than traditional mining. Its mobile-first scalability through the upcoming Solaris Nova app ensures mass adoption potential by letting users mine easily from any device.

These fundamentals make BTC-S more than hype. They make it a realistic contender for significant growth, offering everyday users new ways to build wealth through mining, transactions, and adoption.

Presale Momentum: Only Few Slots Left at $1

Bitcoin Solaris is now deep into its final presale phase, phase 13.
- Current Price: $13
- Launch Price: $20
Over $7.7M has been raised. 15,800+ unique users have joined. This is already one of the most explosive presales on record. But what is truly making waves is the Genesis Event rollback. For a very limited time, BTC-S is rolling back from $13 to just $1 for the final 100 participants.

Genesis Event Key Details:
- Rollback to $1 instead of $13
- Potential ROI of 1900% at launch
- Only around 1 week left
This is not labeled as a discount or bonus. It is a rare opportunity for those who move fast enough to secure it.

Wallets like Trust Wallet and Metamask are recommended for receiving your tokens smoothly at launch.

Forget Hype, Bitcoin Solaris Is Backed by Real Tech and Real Growth

Influencers Are Talking

The buzz around Bitcoin Solaris is growing fast. Multiple influencers have already taken notice.
- Token Empire praised the scalability and dual-consensus model.
- Crypto Vlog highlighted the mobile-first mining and high TPS.
- Token Galaxy focused on how BTC-S could mirror Bitcoin’s early wealth potential.
These are not throwaway reviews. These influencers are focused on fundamentals, and Bitcoin Solaris is delivering.

Why Bitcoin Solaris Has the Community Excited

Bitcoin Solaris offers more than speculation. Its foundation includes:
- Energy-efficient mining
- Dual-layer consensus for scalability and security
- Smart contracts for DeFi adoption
- 10,000+ TPS for real-world use
- Mobile-first approach via the upcoming Solaris Nova app
These features make it a standout in an increasingly crowded space.

Liquid Staking Brings Passive Income With Flexibility

Bitcoin Solaris is innovating beyond mining through its liquid staking model. Users earn rewards while maintaining full access to their assets through sBTC-S tokens (1:1). These tokens can be used in DeFi, traded, or held without restrictions.

Benefits of liquid staking:
- Earn rewards while keeping liquidity
- sBTC-S tokens fully usable in DeFi platforms
- Supports network strength through increased staking
- Fully integrated with the Solaris Nova App and its smart validator system
Learn more about this system at Bitcoin Solaris Liquid Staking.

Final Verdict: Bitcoin Solaris Is the Opportunity

Bitcoin Solaris is positioning itself as more than just another altcoin. With its advanced dual-consensus model, energy efficiency, and 10,000+ TPS scalability, BTC-S is built for real-world adoption while giving users easy access through mobile mining and DeFi. The project’s strategic rollout and growing user base show strong momentum heading into launch.

This is not about guessing the next meme coin. Bitcoin Solaris offers a realistic pathway to wealth creation through technology, accessibility, and scalability. The fact that only 100 slots remain at $1 adds urgency to what is already one of the most talked-about opportunities in the altcoin space right now. If you missed Bitcoin’s early days or watched other projects 10x without you, this could be the moment to finally change that narrative.

For more information on Bitcoin Solaris:
Website: https://www.bitcoinsolaris.com/
Telegram: https://t.me/Bitcoinsolaris
X: https://x.com/BitcoinSolaris

Media Contact:
Xander Levine
press@bitcoinsolaris.com
Press Kit: Available upon request

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

Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b6db7fef-96ce-4418-9b44-5b74ae312406

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/cb9de2a0-74ca-4b37-b92e-0168c95ee4f9

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/166fbb5e-2dc6-4672-94a2-44c0bbbe42cb

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b638ca37-b486-438b-9011-6495e84c60d0

The MIL Network –
July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Solaris Announces Final Genesis Event Offering: $1 Token Price for Last 100 Participants
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

TALLINN, Estonia, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Every altcoin season brings surprises. Some coins pump on pure hype. Others, like Bitcoin Solaris, are building real momentum by delivering on tech, scalability, and accessibility. The crypto market is once again heating up with investors racing to secure what could be the next big success story. Unlike overhyped projects riding temporary waves, Bitcoin Solaris has built its case on solid fundamentals. Its Genesis Event is currently rolling back the price from $13 to just $1 for a very short time, giving early investors a shot at a 1900% ROI before launch.

With just 100 slots left, this is the kind of opportunity that feels like Bitcoin’s early days repeating themselves, but with modern tech, faster performance, and mobile-first accessibility at the heart of its offering. This is why so many crypto enthusiasts are now focusing on BTC-S as their top altcoin pick for serious long-term potential.

Bitcoin Solaris: A Scalable, Mobile-First Future for Wealth Generation

Bitcoin Solaris is not just another altcoin chasing trends. Its core technology is designed to solve the issues Bitcoin never could. Through its dual-consensus architecture, Bitcoin Solaris offers 10,000+ transactions per second, validator rotation for fairness and security, and energy efficiency 99.95% greater than traditional mining. Its mobile-first scalability through the upcoming Solaris Nova app ensures mass adoption potential by letting users mine easily from any device.

These fundamentals make BTC-S more than hype. They make it a realistic contender for significant growth, offering everyday users new ways to build wealth through mining, transactions, and adoption.

Presale Momentum: Only Few Slots Left at $1

Bitcoin Solaris is now deep into its final presale phase, phase 13.
- Current Price: $13
- Launch Price: $20
Over $7.7M has been raised. 15,800+ unique users have joined. This is already one of the most explosive presales on record. But what is truly making waves is the Genesis Event rollback. For a very limited time, BTC-S is rolling back from $13 to just $1 for the final 100 participants.

Genesis Event Key Details:
- Rollback to $1 instead of $13
- Potential ROI of 1900% at launch
- Only around 1 week left
This is not labeled as a discount or bonus. It is a rare opportunity for those who move fast enough to secure it.

Wallets like Trust Wallet and Metamask are recommended for receiving your tokens smoothly at launch.

Forget Hype, Bitcoin Solaris Is Backed by Real Tech and Real Growth

Influencers Are Talking

The buzz around Bitcoin Solaris is growing fast. Multiple influencers have already taken notice.
- Token Empire praised the scalability and dual-consensus model.
- Crypto Vlog highlighted the mobile-first mining and high TPS.
- Token Galaxy focused on how BTC-S could mirror Bitcoin’s early wealth potential.
These are not throwaway reviews. These influencers are focused on fundamentals, and Bitcoin Solaris is delivering.

Why Bitcoin Solaris Has the Community Excited

Bitcoin Solaris offers more than speculation. Its foundation includes:
- Energy-efficient mining
- Dual-layer consensus for scalability and security
- Smart contracts for DeFi adoption
- 10,000+ TPS for real-world use
- Mobile-first approach via the upcoming Solaris Nova app
These features make it a standout in an increasingly crowded space.

Liquid Staking Brings Passive Income With Flexibility

Bitcoin Solaris is innovating beyond mining through its liquid staking model. Users earn rewards while maintaining full access to their assets through sBTC-S tokens (1:1). These tokens can be used in DeFi, traded, or held without restrictions.

Benefits of liquid staking:
- Earn rewards while keeping liquidity
- sBTC-S tokens fully usable in DeFi platforms
- Supports network strength through increased staking
- Fully integrated with the Solaris Nova App and its smart validator system
Learn more about this system at Bitcoin Solaris Liquid Staking.

Final Verdict: Bitcoin Solaris Is the Opportunity

Bitcoin Solaris is positioning itself as more than just another altcoin. With its advanced dual-consensus model, energy efficiency, and 10,000+ TPS scalability, BTC-S is built for real-world adoption while giving users easy access through mobile mining and DeFi. The project’s strategic rollout and growing user base show strong momentum heading into launch.

This is not about guessing the next meme coin. Bitcoin Solaris offers a realistic pathway to wealth creation through technology, accessibility, and scalability. The fact that only 100 slots remain at $1 adds urgency to what is already one of the most talked-about opportunities in the altcoin space right now. If you missed Bitcoin’s early days or watched other projects 10x without you, this could be the moment to finally change that narrative.

For more information on Bitcoin Solaris:
Website: https://www.bitcoinsolaris.com/
Telegram: https://t.me/Bitcoinsolaris
X: https://x.com/BitcoinSolaris

Media Contact:
Xander Levine
press@bitcoinsolaris.com
Press Kit: Available upon request

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

Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b6db7fef-96ce-4418-9b44-5b74ae312406

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/cb9de2a0-74ca-4b37-b92e-0168c95ee4f9

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/166fbb5e-2dc6-4672-94a2-44c0bbbe42cb

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b638ca37-b486-438b-9011-6495e84c60d0

The MIL Network –
July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI: US Payday Loans Online No Credit Check : RadCred Expands Bad Credit Loans for a Credit Score of 580 or lower for US Borrowers
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Glendale, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — While many so‑called online loans no credit check sites have disappeared in the past year, Google Trends now places “payday loans online no credit check” and “online payday loans for bad credit” among the fastest‑rising finance queries of 2025. In this climate, RadCred has secured its position as the most dependable payday loan marketplace for borrowers with scores 580 or below.

Independent analytics firms rank the platform first for visitor volume in the same‑day loans category, and consumer‑finance reviewers highlight RadCred’s soft‑pull pre‑qualification, transparent APR tables, and rapid ACH funding that can rival “1 hour payday loans no credit check” advertising claims.

By curating only state‑licensed and tribal direct lenders, RadCred delivers legitimate access to $255 payday loans online same day, small payday loans online no credit check, and other emergency‑cash products without exposing applicants to predatory rollover fees. In short, RadCred remains the rare, fully compliant bridge between heightened demand for bad credit payday loan options and a shrinking field of trustworthy providers.

Growing Demand for Payday Loans Online and Bad‑Credit Loans Across the U.S

Inflation, gig‑economy volatility, and tightening bank credit have pushed more Americans toward payday loans and other online loans for bad credit. Google Trends shows surging queries for “$255 payday loans online same day,” “payday loan online no credit check,” and “direct lenders only.”

The Federal Reserve’s 2024 SHED survey reports that 60 percent of adults cannot cover a $400 emergency without borrowing or selling assets. Sub‑prime borrowers now turn to no credit payday loans search results hoping to avoid multiple denials.

Visit the Official Radcred Site

Payday Loans vs. Personal Installment Loans for a 580 Credit Score

A bad credit payday loan typically requires repayment in a single lump sum on the borrower’s next payday, whereas a personal installment loan splits costs over three to 24 months. Both can originate entirely online, start with a no credit check loans style soft pull, and through RadCred come from state‑licensed direct lenders. Borrowers compare total repayment to decide whether a fast payday loans online same day option or a longer installment schedule better fits their budget.

How RadCred Routes Borrowers to Online Payday Loans for Bad Credit
1. Soft‑Inquiry Pre‑Screen – No hard pull to preview offers.
2. Licensing Filter – Only compliant lenders appear.
3. Smart‑Match Engine – Scores wages, benefits, gig deposits.
4. Offer Display – APR, fees, funding speed (including same day loans).
5. E‑Sign & Fund – Can deposit within hours for approved requests like small payday loans online no credit check seekers.
Soft Pull vs. “No Credit Check” and “Guaranteed Approval” Claims

Advertising copy frequently touts phrases such as “online loans no credit check,” “payday loans online no credit check,” and “guaranteed approval.” In a regulated environment, however, licensed lenders must still conduct due‑diligence reviews and cannot offer unconditional acceptance. RadCred therefore provides explicit clarification. Each application commences with a soft credit inquiry often marketed as a no credit check step so preliminary shopping does not affect an applicant’s FICO score.

Should an individual proceed with an offer, the relevant direct lender may execute a hard inquiry or request income documentation to substantiate repayment capacity. Consequently, the expression “guaranteed approval” should be interpreted as indicating a high preliminary match probability for qualified borrowers, rather than an assurance of funding.

Who Uses Radcred Payday Loans Online Same Day in 2025?

Internal RadCred analytics indicate that the predominant users of the platform are adults between 22 and 45 years of age, many of whom derive income from gig‑economy or part‑time positions and possess either sub‑prime scores or thin credit files. These applicants typically request modest principal amounts most frequently between $255 and $500 to address urgent obligations such as rent or utility arrears. Their search queries feature terms like “online payday loans for bad credit” and “same‑day loans” when expenses arise before payday.

Step‑by‑Step: Applying Without Hurting Your Credit Score
1. Check credit files.
2. Pre‑qualify on RadCred with a soft pull.
3. Compare offers, including APR on online payday loans and small personal loans.
4. Upload pay stub or bank screenshot.
5. E‑sign disclosures.
6. Receive ACH funds—sometimes in under an hour.
7. Repay on schedule; many lenders waive early‑pay fees.
RadCred vs. Traditional Payday Stores

Heading to a storefront lender still means driving across town, waiting in line, filling out forms by hand, and writing a post‑dated check not ideal when payday loans online or same‑day loans can be requested from your phone in minutes. Miss the lump‑sum due date and renewal fees snowball fast. The fine print usually shows up only at the counter, and every fresh application can trigger a hard credit inquiry that drops an already low score. Long lines, short business hours, and paper receipts add more hassle, while many single‑location shops never post full APR tables or meet modern data‑security standards.

RadCred brings the whole process online. A simple, mobile‑friendly form grabs basic details, runs a soft‑credit check often marketed as an online loan no credit check step—and instantly lists state‑licensed offers from direct lenders only with clear APR, fees, and total repayment. Funds move by ACH, so approved same‑day payday loans can land in a checking account within hours no lines, no paper checks. AES‑256 encryption and SOC‑2‑audited servers protect personal data, while a ZIP‑code filter screens out unlicensed lenders.

Borrowers get quicker, safer access to transparent payday loans online for bad credit and small payday loans online no credit check with minimal impact on their credit scores.

Frequently Asked Questions

What APR can I expect with a 580 credit score?
State caps vary; payday APRs can exceed 200 %, while installment loans via RadCred may start near 35 %.

Can I get a no credit payday loan truly without a hard inquiry?
A hard pull may still occur after you accept an offer.

How fast do same‑day payday loans fund?
Cut‑off‑time approvals may post within hours, but next‑day deposits are common.

Are there online loans no credit check for larger amounts?
Bigger sums usually require at least a soft pull and sometimes collateral or co‑signers.

Will paying a payday loan on time improve my score?
Only if the lender reports to at least one bureau.

Conclusion

RadCred’s refreshed marketplace converts stressful “loan denied” searches into side‑by‑side comparisons of payday loans online, payday loans online same day, and installment alternatives. After a simple soft credit pull as online loans no credit check—the platform displays only licensed, direct‑lender offers, complete with APR and total‑repay figures. Funding speeds can rival promises like “1 hour payday loans no credit check” or “$255 payday loans online same day,” yet borrowers see transparent, clearly disclosed terms before signing. Consumers with credit scores 580 or below gain responsible access to same‑day loans, bad credit payday loan options, and emergency cash without predatory rollover traps.

About RadCred

Founded in 2018, RadCred connects applicants to a vetted network of state‑licensed and tribal lenders offering online loans from $255 payday loans online same day to $5,000 installment plans. The platform uses income‑first underwriting, encrypted data handling, and clear cost disclosures to expand small‑dollar credit for underserved Americans.

Disclaimer

RadCred is not a lender. Loan approval, APR, fees, amount, and funding speed are set by participating lenders and governed by applicable law. Preliminary offers use a soft inquiry; a hard pull may follow acceptance. Availability varies by state. Borrow responsibly—only what you can repay.

The MIL Network –
July 22, 2025
India’s BioE3 policy to spearhead green growth and biomanufacturing revolution

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

The Government’s ambitious BioE3 Policy—short for Biotechnology for Economy, Environment & Employment—emerged as the focal point of a high-level joint review meeting of all Science Ministries, chaired by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh. Held in the national capital on Monday, the review convened top scientific officials to evaluate inter-ministerial initiatives and promote a unified, outcome-driven vision in alignment with India’s Vision 2047.

Approved by the Cabinet in August 2024, the BioE3 Policy is designed to transform India into a global hub for sustainable biomanufacturing by leveraging biotechnology and artificial intelligence. The Minister was informed about the overwhelming response to the policy’s first round of DBT-BIRAC ( Department of Biotechnology- Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance) joint calls, which attracted over 2,000 proposals. Calling it a “national mission,” Dr. Singh emphasized its role in driving green growth, expanding the bioeconomy, and generating employment across sectors.

The BioE3 framework focuses on five critical domains—Carbon Capture and Utilization, Precision Biotherapeutics, Smart Proteins, Enzymes, and Climate-Resilient Agriculture. Nearly 40% of the selected proposals are being led by startups and private industry through public-private partnership (PPP) models. Academic institutions, meanwhile, are at the forefront of agri-biotech innovations. These initiatives are being supported by the national MoolankurBioEnabler Network, a cutting-edge platform comprising Bio-AI Hubs, biofoundries, and biomanufacturing centers.

In a strategic move to reverse brain drain, the Minister also reviewed a proposal to introduce 100 post-doctoral fellowships for Indian scientists working abroad. “We must offer meaningful opportunities to attract our talent back,” Dr. Singh stated, underlining the importance of building domestic research capabilities.

The review also covered developments in India’s energy sector. Officials provided updates on ongoing site assessments in Bihar for new nuclear power plants. These evaluations, focusing on land availability, water resources, seismic stability, and soil conditions, are being conducted in collaboration with state authorities. Final approval will rest with the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board.

India’s space programme also received significant attention. A recent technological advancement is set to boost the payload capacity of the GSLV Mark-3 rocket by 20%—achieved without structural modifications. Officials further disclosed that a near-crisis during an international satellite launch was averted after a crack in the fuel line was promptly detected and rectified. Dr. Singh lauded the swift action and high level of preparedness demonstrated by the technical teams.

Preparations are now underway for National Space Day, which will highlight the contributions of India’s thriving space startup ecosystem. Over 300 private firms are expected to participate in live demonstrations and exhibitions, showcasing innovations that are fast becoming integral to India’s space ambitions.

Educational outreach also featured prominently in the discussions. The Ministry is exploring ways to expand initiatives such as Vigyan Jyoti, which has witnessed growing participation from schoolgirls nationwide. In response to rising interest from students in Classes 6 to 10, efforts are being made to broaden early-stage mentorship and innovation programmes.

Calling for greater inter-ministerial alignment, Dr. Singh directed departments to channel key proposals through the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser for better strategic coordination. “We must avoid overlaps and work in unison to achieve national outcomes,” he said.

July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: July results of the Bank Lending Survey in Germany | Demand continued to rise in all loan categories

Source: Deutsche Bundesbank

The German banks responding to the Bank Lending Survey (BLS) tightened their credit standards for loans to enterprises and loans to households in the second quarter of 2025. Increased credit risk and lower risk tolerance were the rationale behind the tightening.
The surveyed banks barely changed their credit terms and conditions for loans to enterprises and loans to households for house purchase. For consumer credit and other lending to households, they tightened credit terms and conditions on balance.
Loan demand continued to rise in all loan categories; the demand for loans to enterprises increased more strongly than in previous quarters.
The non-performing loans (NPL) ratio and other indicators of credit quality had a tightening impact on banks’ credit standards, terms and conditions in all loan categories under review.
Owing to climate-related risks and measures to cope with climate change, the past twelve months saw banks tighten their credit standards for “brown” firms and firms in transition. In the case of loans to households for house purchase, credit standards for loans for buildings with poor energy performance also became more restrictive.

The BLS covers three loan categories: loans to enterprises, loans to households for house purchase, and consumer credit and other lending to households. On balance, the surveyed banks tightened their credit standards (i.e. their internal guidelines or loan approval criteria) for loans to enterprises and loans to households. The net share of banks that tightened their standards stood at + 3 % for loans to enterprises (compared with + 3 % in the previous quarter). Credit standards for loans to enterprises were tightened only for small and medium-sized enterprises. The banks tightened credit standards for loans to households for house purchase by + 11 % in net terms (compared with − 7 % in the previous quarter) and for consumer credit and other lending to households by + 11 % in net terms (compared with 0 % in the previous quarter). Banks tightened their credit standards for all reported loan categories to a lesser extent than they had planned in the previous quarter.
The rationale given by the banks for the marginal tightening of credit standards for loans to enterprises was elevated credit risk owing to the gloomier economic situation and the economic outlook. The banks cited a decrease in their risk tolerance as the main reason for tightening their credit standards for loans to households. In addition, a decline in households’ creditworthiness had a restrictive impact on consumer credit and other lending. For the third quarter of 2025, banks are planning to ease their credit standards for loans to enterprises. As regards loans to households, they expect to tighten credit standards again if borrowers’ credit quality continues to deteriorate.

Changes in credit standards for loans to enterprises and contributing factors

On aggregate, banks made hardly any changes to their credit terms and conditions (i.e. the terms and conditions actually approved as laid down in the loan contract) for loans to enterprises and loans to households for house purchase. For consumer credit and other lending to households, they tightened credit terms and conditions on balance. The banks justified these adjustments primarily on the grounds of their reduced risk tolerance and an increase in credit risk.
The surveyed banks reported that demand for bank loans in Germany had risen on balance in all loan categories in the second quarter of 2025. The increase in demand exceeded the banks’ expectations from the previous quarter in all surveyed business areas. Demand for loans to enterprises rose more strongly than in previous quarters. The banks cited an increase in financing needs for fixed investment as well as for inventories and working capital as the reason. In both cases, this was the first time in a year that banks reported moderate growth in funding needs again. In addition, the general level of interest rates also contributed to the increase in demand. According to the surveyed banks, the renewed significant rise in demand for loans to households for house purchase was due mainly to households’ positive view of the outlook on the housing market and the lower level of interest rates. Banks put the rise in households’ demand for consumer credit and other lending down to improved consumer confidence and an increase in purchases of durable consumer goods. The loan rejection rate for loans to enterprises went up again, primarily for loan requests and applications from small and medium-sized enterprises. The rejection rate also increased for consumer credit and other lending to households, but remained unchanged for loans for house purchase. For the third quarter of 2025, banks are expecting to see demand increase further across all three loan categories. For loans to enterprises, banks are expecting positive impetus from domestic economic policy but at the same time a dampening impact from the global political situation.

Change in demand for loans to enterprises and contributing factors

The July survey round contained ad hoc questions on participating banks’ financing conditions and about the impact of NPLs and other indicators of credit quality on the institutions’ lending policies. It also contained a question on their credit standards, terms and conditions, and on demand for loans across the main economic sectors. In addition, for the third time, BLS banks were surveyed on the impact of climate change and climate-related measures on bank lending. They were asked to report on the impact for “green” firms (firms that do not contribute or contribute little to climate change), firms in transition (firms that contribute to climate change, which are making relevant progress in the transition), and “brown” firms (firms that contribute strongly to climate change, which have not yet started or have so far made only little progress in the transition). This question was expanded for the first time to include a question on the impact of climate change and climate-related measures in connection with loans to households for house purchase. Another ad hoc question assessed the impact of excess liquidity on bank lending.
Given the conditions in financial markets, German banks reported that their funding situation had improved slightly compared with the previous quarter.
In the second quarter of 2025, the NPL ratio (the stock of gross NPLs on the bank’s balance sheet as a percentage of the gross carrying amount of loans) and other indicators of credit quality, owing to their size, had a restrictive impact on credit standards, terms and conditions for loans to enterprises and loans to households. For the third quarter of 2025, the banks are expecting this credit quality-driven restrictive effect to continue. Credit standards for loans to enterprises were tightened most sharply over the past six months in the (commercial) real estate and manufacturing sectors. However, credit standards were also tightened for all other sectors surveyed, with the exception of services. For the next six months, banks are not expecting to make any noteworthy adjustments to credit standards in any of the economic sectors, the first time they have reported this for quite some time.
Climate-related risks and measures to cope with climate change have had a restrictive impact on credit standards for loans to enterprises over the past twelve months. The more the enterprises contributed to climate change, the greater that impact was. The effects of climate change had a restrictive impact on credit terms and conditions, especially those for loans to “brown” firms. The effect was expansionary, on the other hand, for loans to “green” firms. Over the next twelve months, banks expect climate change to ease their credit standards, terms and conditions for “green” firms. They are expecting climate change to have a further restrictive impact on their credit standards, terms and conditions for loans to other enterprises. At the same time, the effects of climate change, taken in isolation, stimulated loan demand from “green” firms and firms in transition. By contrast, climate change and climate policy had no impact on loan demand from “brown” firms. For the next twelve months, banks are expecting to see climate change stimulate demand for loans irrespective of firms’ classification.
In the case of loans to households for house purchase, credit standards for loans for buildings with poor energy performance were tightened. By contrast, for loans for buildings with high or reasonably good energy performance, climate-related risks and measures to cope with climate change had no notable impact on credit standards. Over the next twelve months, banks expect this adjustment of credit standards, which is dependent on buildings’ energy performance, to continue. At the same time, climate-related factors, especially investment in the energy performance of buildings, in isolation, stimulated demand for loans for buildings with high or reasonably good energy performance. By contrast, demand for loans for buildings with poor energy performance remained unaffected by climate-related factors. Over the next twelve months, banks expect rising demand for loans for buildings with high energy performance and declining loan demand for buildings with poor energy performance.
The banks do not see developments in excess liquidity held with the Eurosystem as having had any impact on bank lending over the past six months. By their account, that is unlikely to change in the next six months.
The Bank Lending Survey, which is conducted four times a year, took place between 13 June and 1 July 2025. In Germany, 33 banks took part in the survey, with a response rate of 100 %.

Changes in credit standards for loans to enterprises across main economic sectors

Changes in credit standards for loans to households for house purchases and contributing factors

Change in demand for loans to households for house purchase and contributing factors

Time series credit standards
Loans to enterprises
Loans to households for house purchase
Consumer credit and other lending to households

MIL OSI

MIL OSI Europe News –

July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Transparency and democratic accountability in Commission practices – E-002868/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002868/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Dick Erixon (ECR), Charlie Weimers (ECR), Beatrice Timgren (ECR)

In recent years, the Commission has been criticised for a pattern of opaque decision-making and lack of disclosure, raising concerns about democratic accountability in the EU. This includes the refusal to disclose key communications during major public procurement processes, restrictions on access to contracts with non-governmental organisations receiving EU funding and self-imposed exemptions from transparency rules in meetings with non-EU authorities[1][2][3].

These practices raise concerns about democratic accountability within the EU and risk eroding public trust in EU governance. If the Commission expects Member States to uphold the rule of law and transparency, it must apply the same standards to its own conduct.

1.What concrete measures will the Commission take to improve institutional transparency, particularly in relation to high-level communications and procurement processes involving significant public funds?

2.Does the Commission consider it compatible with democratic principles that Members of the European Parliament can only access NGO funding contracts under confidentiality agreements, and if so, why?

3.Will the President of the European Commission commit to publishing a comprehensive list of meetings held between Commission officials and non-EU representatives since 2022, including the purpose and participants of such meetings?

Submitted: 14.7.2025

[1] https://brusselssignal.eu/2025/04/ec-admits-misuse-and-undue-lobbying-activities-in-grant-awards/.

[2] https://www.sullcrom.com/insights/memo/2025/May/EU-Court-Landmark-Ruling-Reinforces-Transparency-EU-Institutions.

[3] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2025-001292_EN.html.
Last updated: 22 July 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – G7 declaration on the minimum international taxation regime and advantages provided to US-based multinationals – E-002858/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002858/2025
to the Council
Rule 144
Fabio De Masi (NI)

The Commission has recently argued that the G7’s declaration on the treatment reserved for the United States as regards the minimum international taxation of multinationals should be automatically translated into EU law, without requiring amendments to EU law. Adopting the declaration would mean that US multinationals would continue to benefit from the ‘safe harbour’ mechanism and would therefore not be subject to the 15 % minimum tax requirement. This would be achieved through the establishment of a side-by-side system. This system could also give the United States a slight competitive advantage over European companies.

I would therefore like to ask the following questions:

1.Is there agreement among the Member States regarding the adoption of the G7 declaration?

2.Was there a vote in the Council on approving the G7 declaration?

3.Are there specific measures under discussion that could offset the potential competitive disadvantage associated with the side-by-side system?

Submitted: 14.7.2025
Last updated: 22 July 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The Commission’s Rule of Law Report – E-002852/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002852/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Erik Kaliňák (NI)

The Commission’s Rule of Law Report was initially portrayed as a document that would offer an objective, impartial and evidence-based evaluation of the state of the rule of law in the Member States. Unfortunately, I must say that the declared ambitions have not been fulfilled, even several years later. The report repeatedly suffers from the same shortcomings.

In light of the foregoing:

1.Given that it is now clear that the Commission treats some Member States more strictly while overlooking the shortcomings of others, how does it intend to ensure the political neutrality of the report?

2.How does the Commission intend to guarantee objectivity when the report often lacks adequate justification for its assertions (the Commission often fails to provide evidence to support its assertions or their broader context)?

3.How does it intend to ensure that the report responds only to actual shortcomings and does not criticise states for hypothetical, non-existent threats?

Submitted: 14.7.2025
Last updated: 22 July 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The unilateral support for LGBTIQ projects and the absence of initiatives tackling anti-Christian discrimination in the CERV-2025-EQUAL call for proposals – E-002861/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002861/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Paolo Inselvini (ECR), Carlo Ciccioli (ECR), Alberico Gambino (ECR), Pietro Fiocchi (ECR), Marco Squarta (ECR)

Recently published by the Commission, the 2025 CERV call for proposals[1] is the umpteenth example of how this institution uses public funds to push its own ideologies, which are totally out of touch with reality and with the views of millions of EU citizens.

Surprisingly, the only form of religious discrimination that the call does not mention is that against Christians, an omission that is made all the more egregious when we see that, according to the latest OIDAC data (which also draws on ODIHR/OSCE sources[2]), hate crimes against Christians in Europe rose almost 20 % between 2022 and 2023. In addition, only 10 EU governments provided disaggregated data, a critical monitoring deficit.

The CERV-2025-EQUAL call also earmarks funding for projects focusing on the LGBTIQ agenda and mentions ‘rainbow families’, a concept which is not recognised by law in Italy and other Member States.

It is unacceptable that, instead of being used to tackle all forms of discrimination fairly and impartially, European public funds are allocated to push a biased and ideological understanding of discrimination in Europe .

In the light of the above:

1.Why did the Commission not include any initiatives combating discrimination against Christians in the CERV-2025-EQUAL call?

2.How can it justify supporting social models that are not legally recognised in a number of Member States?

3.Will the Commission revise the 2025 CERV call for proposals so that it genuinely ensures pluralism and upholds national competences?

Supporter[3]

Submitted: 14.7.2025

[1] https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/topic-details/CERV-2025-EQUAL-RESTRICTED?isExactMatch=true&status=31094501,31094502&frameworkProgramme=43251589&order=DESC&pageNumber=1&pageSize=50&sortBy=startDate.

[2] Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).

[3] This question is supported by a Member other than the authors: Stefano Cavedagna (ECR)
Last updated: 22 July 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Council position on the Sevilla Platform for Action and related initiatives – E-002857/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002857/2025
to the Council
Rule 144
Fabio De Masi (NI)

In the context of the recent Sevilla Platform for Action (SPA), which was presented at the United Nations’ fourth International Conference on Financing for Development, Brazil and Spain have proposed a project to establish an effective system of international tax cooperation. The project aims to enable the effective taxation of high-net-worth individuals by improving information sharing and establishing a global wealth registry. Notably, South Africa has recently joined this platform.

Given the significant implications that this and similar initiatives have for advancing redistributive justice:

1.Is this initiative supported by the Council and the Member States?

2.What specific measures inspired by the SPA or related initiatives are currently being debated (or have been debated this year) by the Council?

3.What concrete steps is the Council planning to take to promote international tax cooperation in this context?

Submitted: 14.7.2025
Last updated: 22 July 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Compliance of EDF funding of Intracom Defense with Regulation (EU) 2021/697 – E-002865/2025
Source: European Parliament

Question for written answer E-002865/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Danilo Della Valle (The Left), Marc Botenga (The Left), Mounir Satouri (Verts/ALE), Cristina Guarda (Verts/ALE), Gaetano Pedulla’ (The Left), Maria Zacharia (NI), Cecilia Strada (S&D), Pasquale Tridico (The Left), Rudi Kennes (The Left), Branislav Ondruš (NI), Dario Tamburrano (The Left), Elisabeth Grossmann (S&D), Rima Hassan (The Left), Michael von der Schulenburg (NI), Irene Montero (The Left), Catarina Martins (The Left), Emma Fourreau (The Left)

According to an international investigation by Investigate Europe, the Greek company Intracom Defense – the beneficiary of around EUR 14 million from the European Defence Fund (EDF) for the ACTUS drone project – is reportedly 95 % owned by the Israeli state-owned arms manufacturer Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), which is allegedly involved in the ongoing military operations in Gaza. Intracom’s financial reports indicate that IAI not only owns 95 % of its share capital but also holds 100 % of its voting rights. On 16 May 2024, Intracom announced its participation in three additional EDF-funded projects.

Under Articles 10, 12 and 22 of Regulation (EU) 2021/697[1] establishing the EDF, entities controlled by non-EU countries may access funding only under strict safeguards, ensuring no unauthorised control, access, or transfer of project results to non-EU actors. The regulation also requires compliance with ethical standards, international law and fundamental rights.

Given these concerns, can the Commission clarify:
- 1.whether awarding EDF funding to a company under full control of a non-EU defence entity like IAI is compatible with Regulation (EU) 2021/697?
- 2.whether it has conducted and documented a risk assessment excluding the possibility of direct or indirect transfer of EDF-funded results to the Israeli Government?
- 3.whether it intends to open an investigation to verify compliance with regulatory and ethical obligations?
Submitted: 14.7.2025
- [1] Regulation (EU) 2021/697 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 29 April 2021 establishing the European Defence Fund (OJ L 170, 12.5.2021, p. 149, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/697/oj).
MIL OSI Europe News –
July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The MHRA and the global flu vaccine: How the UK is helping shape the world’s flu vaccine
Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

News story

The MHRA and the global flu vaccine: How the UK is helping shape the world’s flu vaccine

Ensuring the seasonal flu vaccine is ready, safe and effective involves months of international planning, testing and collaboration
Each year, millions of people across the globe catch influenza, commonly known as the flu. While many recover quickly, flu can be deadly, particularly for older adults, young children, and those with weakened immune systems. In the UK alone, seasonal flu can cause thousands of deaths in a bad year. This is why having an effective and up-to-date flu vaccine is crucial.

Millions of people around the world prepare for seasonal influenza by getting vaccinated. It’s something many of us take for granted – a quick injection at the GP or pharmacy. But behind the scenes, ensuring that vaccine is ready, safe, and effective involves months of international planning, testing, and collaboration.

At the heart of that global effort is the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) – the UK’s regulator for medicines and medical devices. The MHRA’s role goes far beyond approving medicines for the UK. It also leads on the international stage by hosting the MHRA Global Influenza Meeting, a key event that helps guide the development and delivery of the world’s flu vaccines.

Why the flu vaccine needs updating every year

Unlike some viruses, like measles, the influenza virus constantly changes and evolves. This means that last year’s vaccine may not protect against this year’s strains. Each year, scientists and regulators across the world work together to track the latest strains of the virus and decide which ones should be included in the next season’s vaccine.

The World Health Organization (WHO) leads this process through a network of research centres and laboratories known as Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System. However, transforming that scientific research and development into safe, effective, and timely licensed vaccines involves regulators. The MHRA plays a key role in both aspects.

A meeting 20 years in the making

This year marks the 40th MHRA influenza meeting, held twice a year for the past 20 years. This year, it was held last week. What began as a European-focused gathering has grown into a major global event, drawing together public health experts, scientists, manufacturers, and regulators from across the world.

As Dr Othmar Engelhardt, the MHRA’s Head of Seasonal Influenza and organiser of the meetings, explains, the MHRA provides “a well-established venue for discussions within the community, bringing together everyone involved in the process of producing and delivering the vaccine after the strains relevant to a particular season are recommended by the WHO strain selection committee.”

What happens at the meeting?

The aim of the meeting is to ensure that all players have the information they need to ensure that the provision of the annual flu vaccine is the best it can be – delivered on time, with as few hurdles as possible. It’s a forum to share science, streamline processes, and keep the world prepared.

Topics covered are wide-ranging, including:

Update on influenza in the world: Which flu viruses are circulating globally, and which are most likely to pose a threat in the coming season?

Reagents and standards: What laboratory materials are available for testing and manufacturing? How can the community help speed up access to these materials?

Vaccine production updates: How ready are manufacturers for the upcoming flu season following the WHO strain recommendation, and what’s needed to smooth the supply chain?

Importantly, there is also a focus on zoonotic influenza – flu viruses that jump from animals, such as birds or pigs, to humans. These have the potential to spark the next influenza pandemic, so surveillance and preparation of potential vaccine candidates are essential.

The disappearance of B/Yamagata

One notable scientific development in recent years is the apparent disappearance of the B/Yamagata flu lineage since the COVID-19 pandemic. Previously, flu vaccines were quadrivalent, meaning that they contained four virus components (two A types and two B types). Now, many have moved to a trivalent vaccine, with only three components – a shift that required regulatory review and approval.

Special topics: new vaccines and testing methods

Day three of the meeting was dedicated to a special topic, namely a workshop on new vaccine platforms and targets for influenza. As technology evolves, researchers are exploring faster and potentially more effective ways to develop, test and produce vaccines – including using mRNA technology and exploring universal flu vaccines (i.e. a vaccine against most flu strains -which would not have to be changed between seasons).

Another key area is vaccine potency (i.e. dose) testing. The current gold-standard method, called Single Radial Immunodiffusion (SRD), was developed in the 1970s by the National Institute for Biological Standards and Control (NIBSC), now part of the MHRA. Though still recommended by the WHO, researchers are now working on faster and more flexible alternatives, supported by a working group that reports back into the MHRA meeting.

The 40th meeting also featured reflections from former NIBSC/MHRA staff who were key contributors to SRD methodology, underscoring the UK’s longstanding leadership in this space.

MHRA’s international role

As one of the four WHO Essential Regulatory Laboratories (ERLs) – alongside labs in the US, Japan, and Australia – the MHRA plays a unique role. Its Influenza Resource Centre (IRC) helps develop candidate vaccine viruses (CVVs), ships CVVs and reagents around the world, contributes scientific expertise to vaccine strain selection, prepares biological standards and reagents for use in vaccine manufacture and testing, and our regulatory colleagues advise on the global regulatory process.

This role also places the MHRA at the forefront of pandemic preparedness, including contributing to the WHO’s Pandemic Influenza Vaccine Preparedness framework. This involves all the above. staying alert to emerging zoonotic threats and ensuring the global community is ready to respond.

A diverse and united audience

What makes the MHRA Global Influenza Meeting especially valuable is its diversity. It brings together the WHO, regulators, researchers and manufacturers in one open forum. In a field as complex and fast-moving as influenza, open communication is vital.

As Othmar noted, “The flu field can be difficult because the viruses change all the time, meaning that the vaccines have to change as well.” The meeting provides a rare opportunity for all the key players to align their goals, share progress, and prepare together.

Why it matters to the UK and the world

Ultimately, the MHRA’s role in facilitating this global collaboration helps ensure that flu vaccines are timely, safe, and effective, not just in the UK but across the world. From setting scientific standards to hosting crucial conversations, the MHRA continues to play a central role in protecting global health.

For us in the UK, this means protection each winter. For the global community, it means stronger defences against one of the world’s most common infectious threats.

So next time you’re offered a flu vaccination, remember that behind that quick appointment lies a year of global planning, science, and collaboration – with a lot of this happening right here in the UK.

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Published 22 July 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Registration for the second night bike festival has opened

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

On website Registration has opened for the second night bike festival, which will take place on August 2. Cyclists will have to ride along the Garden Ring.

For the first time in the history of Moscow cycling festivals, two night cycling festivals are being held this year. The first one, which took place on July 5, attracted a record number of participants – 45 thousand people.

“We support the development of cycling culture in the capital, as instructed

Sergei Sobyanin. At the request of city residents, we are holding two cycling festivals this summer. Registration for the second night cycling festival, which will take place on August 2, is already open. For the first time, the night ride will take place along the Garden Ring. We invite all fans of active recreation to join in,” said Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry Maxim Liksutov.

The festival town will open on Zubovskaya Square at 20:00. The entrance is from Bolshaya Pirogovskaya Street. The races will take place at 21:00, 22:00 and 23:00. Participants can choose a convenient time when registering.

The event organizers remind that for comfort it is better to arrive at the time chosen during registration. For safety reasons it is recommended to use a helmet, bicycle lights, elbow and knee protection.

Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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 –

July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “iAM Smart” introduces new functions for viewing and paying government bills

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The Digital Policy Office (DPO) announced today (July 22) that the “iAM Smart” mobile app is rolling out new functions progressively in its “Personal Assistant” page to enable viewing and paying of different government bills.

Members of the public can now use the latest version of the “iAM Smart” mobile app (version 4.4) to check the balance of water bills from the Water Supplies Department (WSD) and Speedpost bills from Hongkong Post and pay the bills via the Faster Payment System.

The DPO and WSD will continue to work closely to introduce more new functions in “iAM Smart” in the coming months. By then, members of the public will be able to use “iAM Smart” to check the “to-do” items related to their WSD accounts (for example, reminders to pay water bills) and the application status of various services (such as the application status of a fishing licence and a plumber’s licence from the WSD).

The DPO will continue to work with different government departments and public and private organisations to include more services under the “Personal Assistant” page of “iAM Smart”, enabling members of the public to enjoy a better personalised service experience and a more convenient smart lifestyle.

The “iAM Smart” one-stop personalised digital service platform has already accumulated over 3.5 million registered users and connects more than 1 200 online services from government, public and private organisations, as well as government e-Forms. The DPO will continue upgrading the “iAM Smart”, with the goal of providing one-stop digital services for all digital government services on the “iAM Smart” platform this year, making it the “single portal for online government services”. For more information on the online services supported by “iAM Smart”, please visit the “iAM Smart” thematic website at www.iamsmart.gov.hk/en/e-service.html.

The “iAM Smart” app supports iOS and Android operating systems, and mobile phones with biometric authentication activated. Members of the public can download and use the latest version of the app for free from the Apple App Store, Huawei AppGallery, and Google Play, or by visiting the “iAM Smart” thematic website at www.iamsmart.gov.hk/en/download.html.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Tenders invited for licence of fee-paying public car park at New Territories (Shatin) Forensic Medicine Centre

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The Government Property Agency (GPA) is inviting tenders for a three-year licence of a fee-paying public car park on portions of the Second Floor of New Territories (Shatin) Forensic Medicine Centre, 7 Lower Shing Mun Road, Tai Wai, Sha Tin, New Territories, Hong Kong.

The premises should only be used to operate a fee-paying public car park for the parking of private cars.

The tender notice was uploaded today (July 22) to the GPA Property Portal: www.gpaproperty.gov.hk/en/index.html. Tender documents are available for collection at the GPA, 9/F, South Tower, West Kowloon Government Offices, 11 Hoi Ting Road, Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon, during the period from 9am to 6pm from Monday to Friday, except public holidays. The documents can also be downloaded from the GPA Property Portal.

Interested tenderers who wish to conduct a site inspection of the premises should make a prior appointment with the GPA by calling 3842 6783 by July 29.

Tenderers must submit their tenders by placing them in the Government Logistics Department Tender Box placed on the Ground Floor, North Point Government Offices, 333 Java Road, North Point, Hong Kong, before noon on August 12. Late tenders will not be accepted.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shek O Beach and Big Wave Bay Beach temporarily closed

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

Attention TV/radio announcers:

Please broadcast the following as soon as possible:

Here is an item of interest to swimmers.

The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (July 22) that Shek O Beach and Big Wave Bay Beach in Southern District, Hong Kong Island, are temporarily closed until further notice for maintenance of the shark prevention nets. Beachgoers are advised not to swim at the beaches.

Red flags at the beaches were hoisted earlier due to big waves at Shek O Beach and “Very Poor” predicted water quality at Big Wave Bay Beach, according to the Beach Water Quality Forecast System.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Inland Revenue Department launches three new tax portals under eTAX

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) launched three new tax portals under eTAX today (July 22), namely the Individual Tax Portal (ITP), Business Tax Portal (BTP) and Tax Representative Portal (TRP), to further enhance the efficiency and user experience of electronic tax services.

An IRD spokesman said, “The IRD is committed to promoting tax digitalisation and has been upgrading electronic tax services to provide convenience to taxpayers and enhance the efficiency, reliability and accuracy of return filing. The three new tax portals provide electronic tax services to individuals, businesses, and tax service agents respectively, allowing them to handle tax matters conveniently and efficiently.”

The ITP offers a centralised platform for users to manage their personal tax matters, providing functions such as tax return filing, personal particulars updates and viewing of tax positions. Individual users may also use the ITP on their mobile devices anytime, anywhere via the “eTAX” mobile application launched by the IRD today.

The BTP is specifically designed for businesses to handle tax matters and compliance obligations electronically, including tax return filing and business registration.

The TRP caters to tax service agents (tax representatives, company secretaries and other tax service providers) to facilitate them in managing clients’ tax matters, including tax return filing and compliance tracking.

“Profiles of existing eTAX users have been migrated to the ITP. They can use their registered information to log into the ITP. Businesses and service agents are encouraged to open an eTAX account as early as possible to handle tax matters electronically through the BTP and TRP in a safe, convenient and environmentally friendly way,” the spokesman said.

Details about the three new tax portals are available on the IRD’s website.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 22, 2025