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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI USA: Turkish Manufacturer will Establish First American Facility in Wayne County, Create 216 Jobs

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Turkish Manufacturer will Establish First American Facility in Wayne County, Create 216 Jobs

    Turkish Manufacturer will Establish First American Facility in Wayne County, Create 216 Jobs
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today Governor Josh Stein announced that Pelsan Tekstil A.S., a global leader in breathable film technologies for the hygiene and medical sectors, will establish its first production facility in the United States in Wayne County, creating 216 jobs. The company will make an $82.6 million investment in Goldsboro.

    “North Carolina is pleased to welcome Pelsan as it opens its first facility in the United States,” said Governor Stein. “Our skilled workforce, combined with North Carolina’s convenient East Coast location, enables companies to efficiently produce and deliver high-quality products to their customers.”

    Pelsan was established in 2006 as a subsidiary to the Hassan Group, which has more than 80 years of experience in nonwoven and polymer film technologies. Pelsan was the first company in Turkey to manufacture breathable polyethylene films and today offers one of the industry’s most advanced product portfolios. The company’s project in Goldsboro establishes its first U.S. facility for manufacturing various lines of breathable films for hygiene and medical applications, enabling Pelsan to respond more efficiently to rising demand across North America.

    “This expansion is a major strategic milestone for us,” said Ali Sisman, CEO of Pelsan Tekstil. “Our decision to invest in North Carolina underscores our belief in the region’s strong workforce, robust infrastructure, and its alignment with our values of innovation and collaboration. This facility represents a significant new chapter in our company’s journey. We are at a pivotal moment – at the intersection of life and innovation. This journey of transformation and progress is not just ours, but one we share with every individual seeking change, growth, and a better tomorrow.”

    “We continue to see strong interest in our state from international companies looking to expand into North America,” said Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “Our business-friendly reputation and proven competitive advantages continue to attract top-tier companies like Pelsan from around the globe.”

    Although wages will vary depending on the position, the average salary for the new jobs will be $48,789. The current average wage in Wayne County is $46,211.

    The company’s project in North Carolina will be facilitated, in part, by a Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) approved by the state’s Economic Investment Committee earlier today. Over the course of the 12-year term of this grant, the project is estimated to grow the state’s economy by more than $719.5 million. Using a formula that takes into account the new tax revenues generated by the new jobs and the capital investment, the JDIG agreement authorizes the potential reimbursement to the company of up to $2,065,000, spread over 12 years. State payments only occur following performance verification by the departments of Commerce and Revenue that the company has met its incremental job creation and investment targets.

    The project’s projected return on investment of public dollars is 115 per cent, meaning for every dollar of potential cost, the state receives $2.15 in state revenue. JDIG projects result in positive net tax revenue to the state treasury, even after taking into consideration the grant’s reimbursement payments to a given company.                           

    “We welcome this vote of confidence in Wayne County, Goldsboro, and our state overall,” said Representative John Bell. “These new manufacturing jobs and the company’s significant capital investment will bring new job opportunities for our people and will boost the local economy.”

    “The new jobs and the investment into Goldsboro will bring economic growth and stability to Eastern NC”, said Senator Buck Newton. “On behalf of Wayne County, we welcome Pelsan to our community and we will continue to support this company as it grows. I am looking forward to witness the benefits this project will bring.”

    In addition to the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, other key partners in this project include the North Carolina General Assembly, the North Carolina Community College System, Wayne Community College, North Carolina Global TransPark Economic Development Region, Wayne County, the City of Goldsboro, Wayne County Development Alliance, North Carolina’s Southeast, and Duke Energy. 

    May 27, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Inclusion of nuclear energy production targets and deployment pathways in the revised PINC – E-001997/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001997/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Matej Tonin (PPE), François-Xavier Bellamy (PPE), Tomas Tobé (PPE), Jörgen Warborn (PPE), Virgil-Daniel Popescu (PPE), Susana Solís Pérez (PPE), Pilar del Castillo Vera (PPE), Paulius Saudargas (PPE), Christophe Grudler (Renew), Elżbieta Katarzyna Łukacijewska (PPE), Aura Salla (PPE)

    The Clean Industrial Deal aims to enhance European competitiveness and decarbonisation, but its success hinges on the availability of affordable, reliable clean energy. Prominent authorities in the field such as the International Energy Agency have highlighted that nuclear energy can contribute to lower energy costs while improving energy security[1].

    Given this, and in the light of recent studies, such as that published by Compass Lexecon in 2024[2] showing that increasing European nuclear power capacity from 100 GW to 150 GW by 2050 could reduce energy system costs and accelerate emissions reductions, can the Commission clarify:

    • 1.whether it plans to include concrete production and deployment targets for nuclear energy – including large-scale reactors, lifetime extensions, and new technologies such as small modular reactors – in the upcoming revision of the nuclear illustrative programme (PINC);
    • 2.how the PINC will be aligned with the broader goals of the Clean Industrial Deal, and in particular, how the Commission will ensure that nuclear energy is treated on equal footing with other clean technologies in policy instruments that support industrial electrification and decarbonisation?

    Submitted: 19.5.2025

    • [1] International Energy Agency, Nuclear Power and Secure Energy Transitions – From Today’s Challenges to Tomorrow’s Clean Energy Systems, June 2022, https://www.iea.org/reports/nuclear-power-and-secure-energy-transitions.
    • [2] Compass Lexecon, Pathways to 2050: the role of nuclear in a low-carbon Europe – Final report, 15 October 2024: https://www.nucleareurope.eu/project/pathways-to-2050/.
    Last updated: 27 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Direct support schemes for bee-keeping under the CAP: access to finance and inclusion of the industry in strategic planning – E-002025/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002025/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Kristian Vigenin (S&D)

    The bee-keeping sector in the EU plays an important role both in sustainable agriculture and in biodiversity conservation. However, Europe’s bee-keepers are facing a number of challenges, ranging from the impact of pesticides and climate change to diseases and habitat loss, that are leading to a decline in bee populations and hampering the sustainable development of the sector.

    The Common Agricultural Policy 2023-2027 includes mechanisms that could be used to support bee-keeping, but small and medium-sized bee-keepers often face difficulties in accessing finance and participating in strategic measures.

    In this connection, I would like to put the following questions:

    • 1.What specific measures is the Commission considering to improve access to European funding for small and medium-sized bee-keepers, especially in less-developed regions, within the framework of the CAP strategic plans?
    • 2.Is the Commission considering action to promote the establishment of transparent and effective consultation mechanisms with representatives of the apiculture sector in the Member States in order to better involve stakeholders in the design and implementation of CAP measures?
    • 3.Does the Commission intend to develop a targeted strategy or sub-sector policy to support bee-keeping in the context of the future development of the CAP, bearing in mind its importance for sustainable agriculture and the environment?

    Submitted: 20.5.2025

    Last updated: 27 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Stage of implementation of Directive (EU) 2024/1438 on the labelling and traceability of honey, and support for the EU apiculture sector – E-002026/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002026/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Kristian Vigenin (S&D)

    Bees play a key role in biodiversity and sustainable agriculture in the European Union. They are irreplaceable and on them depends not only environmental balance but also the security of the food chain. Protecting bees and ensuring honey production quality are therefore of key significance for EU citizens.

    With the adoption of Directive (EU) 2024/1438, which sets new requirements for the labelling and traceability of honey, the European Union has taken an important step towards increasing consumer awareness and transparency on the bee product market.

    I would like to ask the following questions in this connection.

    • 1.What stage has been reached, in the Member States and more specifically in the Republic of Bulgaria, in the transposition of Directive (EU) 2024/1438?
    • 2.What concrete measures have been taken or are about to be taken to implement the new requirements on the labelling and traceability of honey?
    • 3.What support mechanisms have been foreseen to help bee-keepers adapt to the new rules?

    Submitted: 20.5.2025

    Last updated: 27 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The population crisis in Greece and the need for a European regeneration strategy – E-002028/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002028/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Afroditi Latinopoulou (PfE)

    Greece is experiencing the fastest population decline within the EU and the third fastest worldwide after war-torn Ukraine. It is a silent but existential crisis that is eroding the country’s national continuity, social cohesion and economic prospects. Emigration and low birth rates are depriving the country of young workers, householders and taxpayers, leading to ageing and desolation. The policies implemented to date are fragmented and inadequate. Europeans are not asking for short-term benefits but for a serious, long-term strategy for demographic regeneration.

    In view of this:

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to recognise the need to boost the birth rate of native-born people as a political priority, propose an ambitious European plan to support young families and abandon, at long last, spurious policies to solve the demographic problem within the Union through the naturalisation of illegal immigrants?
    • 2.Does it intend to proceed with the establishment of a stable, long-term framework that will strengthen countries with an acute population problem such as Greece, by providing financial and tax incentives, facilitating the acquisition of a first home and offering support to start a family?
    • 3.What measures does it intend to put in place to reverse the ongoing desertion of the European periphery and promote the sustainable settlement of young families in rural and island areas, where population collapse is already a reality?

    Submitted: 20.5.2025

    Last updated: 27 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Perverse incentives from the Spanish Tax Agency’s bonus schemes – E-002010/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002010/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Jorge Martín Frías (PfE)

    The Spanish Tax Agency uses productivity bonus schemes linked to performance indicators, including tax collection targets. In 2023, productivity bonuses reached approximately EUR 267 million. Some taxpayers have expressed concerns that such schemes may create perverse incentives, encouraging aggressive tax collection practices, such as forcing out-of-court agreements or violating taxpayers’ rights. In fact, even though tax inspections and checks are presumed to be accurate, the Spanish Tax Agency loses 40 % of admissible legal proceedings against it.

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of the design and functioning of the Spanish Tax Agency’s bonus schemes and their non-compliance with the principles of good administration and taxpayers’ rights?
    • 2.Has the Commission assessed whether such schemes could jeopardise the rights protected by the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, in particular the right to good administration and the right to an effective remedy, as well as the principles of proportionality, fairness and legal certainty?

    Submitted: 20.5.2025

    Last updated: 27 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Just Transition Fund – E-001480/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission pays special attention to ensuring that the territories most negatively affected by the costs of the transition towards climate-neutrality receive additional financial support.

    The Just Transition Fund (JTF) is a key tool aimed at mitigating the socioeconomic effects of the transition process, to ensure that no one and no region is left behind.

    On 1 April 2025, the Commission adopted a proposal[1] to amend the cohesion policy regulatory framework to align investment priorities with the evolving context and introduce greater f lexibilities to facilitate the implementation of the programmes, including JTF.

    The Commission is also preparing the ground for the post-2027 cohesion policy within the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). The next MFF will face significant challenges, as outlined in the Commission Communication ‘The road to the next multiannual financial framework’[2].

    The political guidelines of the President of the Commission[3] and the above-mentioned Communication have set out the objective of a strengthened cohesion and growth policy with regions at the centre.

    The proposal for the next MFF will build on a broad consultation, with input at political, institutional and stakeholder level, alongside with active citizens’ involvement and will be presented in July 2025.

    It is still too early to prejudge the overall architecture of the future MFF, including specific funding instruments and sectorial scope.

    • [1] Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulations (EU) 2021/1058 and (EU) 2021/1056 as regards specific measures to address strategic challenges in the context of the mid-term review COM(2025) 123 final.
    • [2] COM(2025) 46 final.
    • [3] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/e6cd4328-673c-4e7a-8683-f63ffb2cf648_en?filename=Political%20Guidelines%202024-2029_EN.pdf.
    Last updated: 27 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Opposition to being a region of plunder – strategic project for the exploitation of a lithium mine in Doade (Ourense) in line with the policy of European rearmament – E-001272/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission recognises the importance of ensuring public participation, transparency, and compliance with environmental and social safeguards in projects involving critical raw materials, including for the selected Strategic Project mina Doade in Galicia, Spain.

    The assessment of mina Doade project included the evaluation of environmental and social impacts, and the use of transparent business practices. The assessment concluded that the project would be implemented sustainably according to the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRM Act)[1].

    The granting of Strategic Project status requires socially responsible practices, respect for human rights and comprehensive and meaningful consultations with local communities and the granting of the permit is carried out independently by the Member States’ competent authority.

    Moreover, granting Strategic Project status does not undermine the obligation of the project promoter to comply with EU environmental legislation[2], which mandates public consultation for plans related to the environment[3] and for projects likely to have significant environmental effects.

    The implementation of the selected Strategic Projects for the EU will be monitored, and in case a Strategic Project no longer fulfils the criteria laid down in the CRM Act, the Commission may withdraw the recognition of a project as a Strategic Project, taking into account the CRM Board’s opinion.

    • [1] https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/sectors/raw-materials/areas-specific-interest/critical-raw-materials/critical-raw-materials-act_en.
    • [2] Directive 2011/92/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 December 2011 on the assessment of the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment. OJ L 26, 28.1.2012, p. 1-21, as amended by Directive 2014/52/EU of 16 April 2014, OJ L 124, 25.4.2014, p. 1-18. 2001/42/EC, 2011/92/EU, 2014/52/EU.
    • [3] Article 7 of the Aarhus Convention.
    Last updated: 27 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Media literacy: Fostering a key civic skill in a digital information environment – 27-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Media literacy – the skills, knowledge and understanding that allow people to use media effectively and safely – is crucial for citizens to navigate the modern news environment and take informed decisions. Better media literacy is likely to increase the public’s resilience to mis- and disinformation. The EU considers media literacy to be important for active involvement in today’s information society. It has launched several initiatives to raise awareness among the Member States of the importance of developing their own media literacy strategies. The European Parliament has underlined the importance of media literacy skills in several resolutions. The Audiovisual Media Services Directive requires Member States to take measures to develop media literacy skills and to report on their efforts every three years. The first set of these national reports revealed large differences across the EU, with some Member States having developed a national media literacy policy with clearly defined responsibilities, and others relying on more fragmented frameworks. In her 2024-2029 political guidelines, the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, emphasised the need to ‘focus on societal resilience and preparedness through increased digital and media literacy’. One of the key forthcoming initiatives, therefore, is the European democracy shield, which aims to make democratic societies less vulnerable to manipulation. The European Parliament has set up a special committee to address these challenges that require a multi-stakeholder, whole-of-society approach in order to foster critical thinking and media and information literacy.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Military drone systems in the EU and global context: Types, capabilities and regulatory frameworks – 27-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Military drones have become a defining feature of modern warfare, as seen in Ukraine where they have caused more casualties than any other weapon. Their widespread use spans reconnaissance, strikes, logistics and naval operations, with both state and non-state players increasingly relying on unmanned systems. The European Union (EU) has prioritised drone development and countermeasures, funding and coordinating research and capability development through the European Defence Fund and Permanent Structured Cooperation. EU leaders have committed to strengthening the defence industry and made major investments in drone production, innovation, and interoperability. The EU is also fostering synergies between the civilian and the defence sectors, addressing strategic dependencies and collaborating with NATO. Furthermore, the European Defence Agency is advancing unmanned aerial system technology through joint projects and its innovation hub. Meanwhile, drone regulation remains fragmented: civilian drones are subject to comprehensive EU rules, while military drone use falls under international law. Legal concerns persist, especially regarding proportionality, accountability and lethal autonomous weapons (LAWS). The European Parliament has called for transparency, adherence to international law and a ban on LAWS, while supporting defence innovation and proposing an EU drone package to stimulate joint procurement and industry participation, particularly from Ukraine. EU lawmakers continue to stress the need for ethical guardrails, robust export controls and a coherent regulatory framework that balances innovation with international legal obligations. The Parliament also emphasises the importance of meaningful human control over all lethal decisions and insists that military artificial intelligence include strong accountability mechanisms.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Study – EU Banking Sector & Competitiveness- Framing the Policy Debate – 27-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    A sound, resilient banking sector that efficiently allocates capital is essential for EU competitiveness. To achieve it, the EU should primarily focus on completing the banking union. It should also simplify capital and other loss-absorbency requirements, and pool decision-making on macroprudential buffers in the banking union at the European level. The forthcoming report on banking, which the European Commission has pledged to publish in 2026, is the right horizon for addressing these aims. Given the stark risk environment, their implementation should not result in any decrease of aggregate capital requirements.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Protecting bees from harmful pesticides and promoting sustainable agriculture in the EU – E-002020/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002020/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Kristian Vigenin (S&D)

    Bee-keeping is a vital part of EU agriculture, both economically and environmentally. Bees play a key role in pollinating crops and maintaining biodiversity in Europe. Safeguarding bee health is not only a matter of protecting producers of honey and bee products, but also of guaranteeing sustainable agriculture and food security for EU citizens.

    At the same time, the use of certain pesticides has an adverse impact on the bee population. Scientific data and a host of testimonies from bee-keepers point to a worrying decline in bee colonies, with the chemicals used in agriculture remaining one one of the main reasons for this.

    In the light of the above, I would like to ask the following questions:

    • 1.What concrete steps is the Commission taking to speed up the establishment of the European Reference Laboratory, whose aim is to strengthen the monitoring and control of pesticide residues, especially those affecting bee health?
    • 2.Is the Commission considering introducing increased restrictions or bans on active substances in pesticides that are proven to be harmful to pollinators?
    • 3.Is targeted financial support being envisaged for sustainable farming research and practices that limit the use of harmful substances and promote the coexistence of agriculture and bee-keeping?

    Submitted: 20.5.2025

    Last updated: 27 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EIB Global helps the National Bank of the Republic of North Macedonia deal with climate risk

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    The European Investment Bank (EIB Global) and the National Bank of the Republic of North Macedonia (NBRNM) have successfully completed a comprehensive climate risk capacity-building initiative under the Greening Financial Systems (GFS) Advisory Programme. The project involved over 50 experts from the NBRNM, strengthening their ability to assess and address climate-related risks, boost green investments among local businesses and support a sustainable economic transition by developing tailored financial regulation with support from the EIB’s Advisory team.

    This technical upskilling will position the NBRNM to share these competences with local financial institutions, enabling them to conduct climate vulnerability assessments and integrate climate scenarios into strategic planning. The local institutions can then provide tailored, informed guidance to local companies on the investments needed to address the climate risks specific to their business.

    Anita Angelovska Bezhoska, Governor of the National Bank of the Republic of North Macedonia, stated: “Building resilience to climate-related financial risks is no longer optional – it is a strategic imperative. Through our valuable partnership with the EIB under the Greening Financial Systems programme, we have significantly enhanced our institutional capacity to integrate climate considerations into our regulatory and supervisory frameworks. Not only does this strengthen our bank’s role in safeguarding financial stability, but it also supports the broader financial sector in adapting to the realities of a changing climate.”

    EIB representative to North Macedonia Björn Gabriel said: “Through this collaboration, we are fostering investments in energy efficiency and climate adaptation among Macedonian companies, making a meaningful contribution to the future resilience and competitiveness of the national economy.”

    Beyond training, the GFS programme has enabled several complementary initiatives, such as the development of Physical and Transition Climate Risk Hazard Maps for North Macedonia and a national survey on climate risk awareness and sustainability practices among companies. It has also provided strategic support on climate-related financial reporting, helping align the NBRNM and the broader financial sector with global frameworks.

    The EIB’s Greening Financial Systems programme is funded by the International Climate Initiative (IKI) on behalf of the German Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK). The programme contributes to the NDC Partnership, helping financial regulators align with the objectives of the Paris Agreement.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Interventions from non-EU countries in the inclusion and freedom policies of European universities – E-002027/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002027/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Nikos Pappas (The Left)

    Recently, actions by non-EU countries have been observed requesting information from European universities on their policies in the areas of diversity (DEI), freedom of expression, risk management and international cooperation. This information is allegedly used for external evaluation of the institutions, possibly with the aim of imposing political or financial restrictions. These developments raise questions regarding academic autonomy, freedom of expression and the smooth implementation of inclusion and diversity policies in European higher education.

    Taking into account Regulation (EU) 2021/817 on Erasmus+ and the provisions on inclusion, diversity and freedom, Article 13 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (academic freedom and the autonomy of educational institutions are a foundation of the Union) and the EU’s responsibility to protect universities from external interference that undermines the values ​of freedom of expression and diversity:

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of these actions and, if so, what is its view of them?
    • 2.What preventive measures is it considering to support freedom of academic activity and defend the autonomy of European universities?
    • 3.Does it intend to strengthen universities that maintain and develop DEI programmes financially and institutionally, in response to external attacks on European values?

    Submitted: 20.5.2025

    Last updated: 27 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – EU–CELAC relations ahead of the 2025 summit – 27-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    After a political lull of almost a decade, the European Union (EU) and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) relaunched their strategic partnership in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on 27 October 2022. The 2022-2023 bi-regional roadmap, together with the EU’s joint communication of 7 June 2023 on a new agenda for Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), prepared the ground for the successful third EU–CELAC summit that took place in Brussels on 17 and 18 July 2023 under the Spanish Presidency of the Council. Two years later, the partners are preparing for the next EU–CELAC summit, due to take place in Santa Marta, Colombia, on 9 and 10 November 2025. This leaders’ meeting is deemed crucial for the EU to deepen its commitment to LAC and advance the strategic partnership. From the EU’s perspective, the Latin American region is key – not only politically, given the recent geopolitical challenges, and economically, because of its great potential as a market for industrial products, but also as a stable supplier of renewable energy sources and critical minerals such as lithium and copper that are crucial for the transformation of the global economy. Geopolitical developments have made it all the more urgent to intensify relations between the EU and CELAC: China has become a dominant player in LAC and is today a strong competitor for the EU and the United States (US). The US policy approach towards LAC under President Donald Trump is strained; this could be an opportunity for the EU to present itself as a reliable partner to the region. The promotion of inclusive and, in particular, mutually beneficial agreements on trade and on raw materials could be an advantage for the EU over its competitors. The summit in Santa Marta provides a chance to elevate the EU–CELAC relationship to the next level. The main tasks will include deepening and concretising the bi-regional relations on issues such as trade and investment and the green and digital transitions, and further strengthening cooperation on other issues such as the fight against organised crime. A litmus test for the strategic partnership will also be whether the partners manage to finalise the two key pending international agreements with Mexico and Mercosur respectively.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Exchange of views on lung health and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease – Committee on Public Health

    Source: European Parliament

    On the 3rd of June, SANT Members will hold an exchange of views with the representatives of European Federation of Allergy and Airways Diseases Patients’ Associations and European Respiratory Society.

    Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is one of the leading cause of death in Europe. It is a common lung disease causing restricted airflow and breathing problems.

    The European Federation of Allergy and Airways Diseases Patients’ Associations (EFA) is a European alliance of over 30 allergy, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients’ associations representing 30% of European citizens currently living with these diseases.

    The European Respiratory Society (ERS) is an international organisation that brings together physicians, healthcare professionals, scientists and other experts working in respiratory medicine. It is one of the leading medical organisations in the respiratory field, with a growing membership representing over 140 countries worldwide.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Possible measures to combat addictive behaviours among young people on social media – E-001715/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001715/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Lukas Mandl (PPE)

    The 2025 Ö3 Youth Study found that 85 % of 15 to 16-year-olds are in favour of setting a minimum age of 16 for using social media. The minimum age currently applied by most platforms is 13, but checks are patchy.

    • 1.What steps is the Commission taking to look into the benefits of a minimum age higher than 13 – with regard to, for instance, education and training, mental health and addiction prevention, social contact and peer education, as well as the spread of disinformation and hate speech?
    • 2.What steps is the Commission taking to look into the drawbacks of a minimum age higher than 13 – such as a lack of international contacts, restrictions on potential creativity, reduced capacity for innovation and parallel structures to bypass the rules?[1]

    Submitted: 29.4.2025

    • [1] Ö3 Youth Study 2025, https://www.oe3jugendstudie.at/ergebnisse.php
    Last updated: 27 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Pharma package – vote on the decision to enter into interinstitutional negotiations – Committee on Public Health

    Source: European Parliament

    Pharma package © Image used under the license from Adobe Stock

    On the 3rd of June, SANT Members wil vote on the decision to enter into interinstitutional negotiations of 2 Pharma package files. With this vote, EP delegation on the Pharma package will be ready to start negotiations with Council as soon as they are ready.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Measures to prevent social exclusion owing to the housing crisis – E-000993/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission shares the concern of the Honourable Member about the impact of the housing crisis particularly affecting vulnerable people.

    To help tackle it, the Commission will put forward a European Affordable Housing Plan (EAHP) to support national, regional and local authorities to address structural drivers of the housing crisis and to add value at the European level while respecting the subsidiarity and proportionality principles.

    EU funds and programmes have already played an important role in implementing policies, reforms, and realising investments to ensure social, affordable and sustainable housing: i) The Recovery and Resilience Facility, the European Regional Development Fund , the European Social Fund+, the Cohesion Fund, the Just Transition Fund and the InvestEU programme are among the major EU instruments to support relevant projects and investments[1]. ii) The Commission published a toolkit on the use of EU funds for investments in social housing and associated services[2]. iii)

    In April 2025, the Commission put forward a legislative proposal to enhance the mid-term review process of cohesion policy programmes and to allow Member States and regions to double the planned investments in affordable housing for their 2021-2027 programmes.

    iv)The Commission is working with the European Investment Bank, as well as international financial institutions, national promotional banks and other stakeholders, to establish a pan-European investment platform for affordable and sustainable housing. v) The forthcoming Anti-Poverty Strategy will lay down a complementary approach on addressing social exclusion.

    The Commission reaffirms that in the context of the EAHP, it will carefully consider the matters described by the Honourable Member.

    • [1] Recovery and Resilience Plans (RRP) include measures worth at least an estimated EUR 21.3 billion that contribute to social housing and other social infrastructure for social inclusion purposes alone. In addition, the RRPs also cover measures promoting affordable housing. EUR 10.4 billion in total investment is planned, involving an EU budget contribution of EUR 7.5 billion from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), Cohesion Fund (CF) and Just Transition Fund (JTF). In particular, the ERDF focuses on the provision and improvement of physical housing infrastructure, including through energy efficiency measures . The InvestEU programme earmarked EUR 2.8 billion for the Social Investments and skills window (including other priorities such as microfinance, social finance and social impact) and EUR 9.9 billion for the sustainable infrastructure window. The European Social Fund+ (ESF+) can support Member States in facilitating access to housing and promoting integrated services, in line with the European Pillar of Social Rights . An exact amount indicating the amount of the ESF+ funds allocated only to housing-related actions cannot be determined.
    • [2] https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/042f7559-fd3f-11ee-a251-01aa75ed71a1/language-en.
    Last updated: 27 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – USAID funding for projects that have shaped political developments in Europe – E-000749/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission has taken note of the executive orders of the Trump administration to terminate 83% of United States Agency for International Development (USAID) programmes.

    The impact will be immediate and felt globally with wide ranging consequences on people’s lives and on global stability and security.

    The EU continues monitoring and assessing the overall impact and possible areas where intervention may be needed, with particular emphasis on key EU interests and life-saving humanitarian assistance.

    Together with Member States, the EU already provides 42% of development aid and 28% of humanitarian aid globally and remains fully committed to the affected regions. However, the EU will not be able to fill in the gap left by the United States’ decision.

    It is not common practice for the EU to co-finance actions together with USAID. However, the EU has engaged in regular exchange of information and coordination at local level, notably through donor coordination frameworks in areas of common interest (support to democracy, civil society, media, etc.) in the Western Balkans.

    With regards to the impact of USAID funding to Cyprus[1], the USAID programme was the main assistance provided for bicommunal activities until 2006 when the EU Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community[2] was launched and USAID withdrew.

    The Commission did not formally evaluate USAID funding to Cyprus.

    • [1] Among other things, USAID helped civil society organisations from both communities cooperate (until 2003, there were no crossing points in Cyprus), supported bicommunal activities, restored buildings in old Nicosia and formalised the bicommunal Nicosia Master Plan for the divided city, which the two Cypriot leaders had developed.
    • [2] Council Regulation (EC) No 389/2006 of 27 February 2006.
    Last updated: 27 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Mandatory hygiene locks for mobile poultry coops – E-001201/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In accordance with Regulation (EC) No 2160/2003[1], targets for the reduction of Salmonella in certain poultry populations have been adopted.

    The regulation also lays down trade restrictions in case certain serotypes on Salmonella are present in such populations. To achieve these targets and avoid trade restrictions, Member States have established national control programmes which must include hygiene management at farms, and measures to prevent incoming infections, for instance of people or animals entering the farm.

    The regulation’s objective is, thus, to set targets while providing flexibility on how these targets should be achieved by establishing national control programmes, adapted to the situation in each Member State.

    Hygiene locks can be part of a national control programme and may represent a key element of such programme to prevent incoming infections.

    In line with the regulation, it is up to the Member States to decide if hygiene locks apply to mobile poultry coops, taking into account that reduction targets must be complied with.

    Affordable technical solutions for installing hygiene locks have been described in the ‘Guide to Good Hygiene Practices in flocks of broilers’ and the ‘Community Guide for Good Hygiene Practices in pullet rearing and egg laying hens’ developed by European stakeholder organisations, endorsed by the Commission and published on its website[2].

    • [1] Regulation (EC) No 2160/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 November 2003 on the control of salmonella and other specified food-borne zoonotic agents (OJ L 325, 12.12.2003, p.1).
    • [2] https://food.ec.europa.eu/food-safety/biological-safety/food-borne-diseases-zoonoses/control-salmonella_en.
    Last updated: 27 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Migration policy and the TFEU – E-000970/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In line with Article 72 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union[1], Member States can take measures that could deviate from EU secondary law.

    However, this must be in exceptional and well-defined cases, under stringent conditions controlled by the Court of Justice of the European Union[2]. Such measures must be temporary, necessary and proportionate, limited to what is strictly necessary.

    Article 6(3) of the Return Directive[3] allows Member States to take back illegally staying third-country nationals in other Member States under bilateral agreements or arrangements existing on the date of entry into force of the Return Directive (also respecting when applicable the Dublin Regulation[4]).

    The Commission’s proposal for a Return Regulation adopted on 11 March 2025[5] includes allowing Member States to conclude new bilateral agreements or arrangements, or to establish bilateral cooperation between Member States to take back illegally staying third-country nationals crossing internal borders without authorisation.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/treaty/tfeu_2016/art_72/oj/eng.
    • [2] See inter alia judgment of 2 April 2020, European Commission v Republic of Poland, European Commission v Hungary and European Commission v Czech Republic, Joined Cases C-715/17, C-718/17 and C-719/17 EU:C:2020:257; judgment of 17 December 2020, Commission v Hungary, Case C-808/18, EU:C:2020:1029; judgment of 30 June 2022, M.A. v Valstybės sienos apsaugos tarnyba, C-72/22, EU:C:2022:505.
    • [3] Directive 2008/115/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2008 on common standards and procedures in Member States for returning illegally staying third-country nationals, OJ L 348, 24.12.2008, p. 98-107.
    • [4] Regulation (EU) No 604/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 June 2013 establishing the criteria and mechanisms for determining the Member State responsible for examining an application for international protection lodged in one of the Member States by a third-country national or a stateless person, OJ L 180, 29.6.2013, p. 31-59 .
    • [5] COM(2025) 101 final.
    Last updated: 27 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Energy policy: strategic dependence on the US – E-000241/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    A key pillar of the REPowerEU plan, setting out the EU’s path to phasing out Russian energy imports, entails the EU diversifying gas imports from global partners, including the United States (US).

    The EU and its Member States have made great progress in recent years in terms of gas supply diversification and will continue to strive for a gas supply as diversified as possible, working with partners like Norway, the US, Mediterranean countries and other gas and liquified natural gas (LNG) suppliers worldwide, while accelerating its clean energy transition and stepping up work on affordability and sustainability.

    Diversifying energy supplies also entails accelerating deployment of home-grown renewable energy and increasing energy efficiency, which improves the resilience and increase EU’s energy independence while advancing our climate objectives.

    The Hydrogen and Decarbonised Gas Markets Package stipulates that contracts for unabated fossil gas cannot run beyond 31 December 2049[1].

    Domestic energy production reduces dependence on external suppliers and reduces the exposure of the EU to external geopolitical instability. Therefore, domestic energy reinforces the security of energy supply of the EU.

    Moreover, it is for Member States to decide their supply mix and the energy sources they want to develop, while complying with climate objectives.

    Fossil fuel extraction is not eligible for EU financial support. Natural gas infrastructure other than those under Article 24 of Regulation (EU) 2022/869 are not eligible for funding under the Connecting Europe Facility.

    • [1] Article 31(3) of Directive (EU) 2024/1788 on common rules for the internal markets for renewable gas, natural gas and hydrogen.
    Last updated: 27 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – 30th anniversary of the enforced disappearance of the 11th Panchen Lama of Tibet – E-001550/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU and China held the 39th session of their Human Rights Dialogue in Chongqing, China on 16 June 2024. The European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Human Rights was informed (in camera) about the discussions held during the Dialogue on 4 December 2024.

    The Dialogue was preceded by a side visit to Tibet that was organised by the Chinese authorities. During the side visit and in the Dialogue itself, visiting diplomats of the European External Action Service had access to experts on Tibetan issues and specifically inquired about the whereabouts and wellbeing of the 11th Panchen Lama.

    The official reply received was that he ‘currently conducts a normal life and does not wish to be contacted’. It was also stressed by the Chinese side that the identification of the 11th Panchen Lama was done without the approval of China’s central government and that as such, it was considered illegal.

    The 30th anniversary of the Panchen Lama’s enforced disappearance will be certainly raised during the next 40th iteration of the Human Rights Dialogue, as will the ongoing suppression of religious freedoms in Tibet.

    The EU will continue to speak out against human rights violations occurring across China, including in Tibet in multilateral fora (e.g. the Human Rights Council) and will continue to convey its concerns to the Chinese leadership including at the highest political level during EU-China summits.

    The EU will also continue to reiterate the rights of individuals or religious communities to conduct their basic affairs and freely choose their religious leaders without government interference — whether in Tibet, or elsewhere in the world.

    Last updated: 27 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Trade liberalisation with Ukraine – E-001455/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is pursuing consultations with Ukraine to review the reciprocal tariff liberalisation under the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement[1] in accordance with Article 29 of that Agreement.

    This review will lead to a well-balanced solution that will allow for reciprocal trade between the EU and Ukraine in agricultural goods, while at the same time protecting EU farmers and addressing interests flagged by some Member States and Members of the European Parliament.

    Furthermore, the Commission is proposing that the negotiated solution would also include a safeguard clause that would be triggered to prevent any adverse impacts of trade flows on the EU market, including one Member State.

    The Commission is working in view of having an outcome in place in time to provide a smooth transition after the expiry of the autonomous trade measures (ATMs) Regulation[2]. If this is not achievable the above-mentioned Association Agreement will provide a bridging solution.

    The Commission does not intend to propose the prolongation of the current ATMs Regulation.

    • [1] http://data.europa.eu/eli/agree_internation/2014/295/oj.
    • [2] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1392/oj.
    Last updated: 27 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – EUR 4.4 billion from the Global Gateway for projects in South Africa and the silence about racial hatred – E-001321/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU and South Africa (SA) have a Strategic Partnership based firmly on democratic values and human rights, as exemplified by the recent EU-SA Summit, which resulted inter alia in the announcement of the Global Gateway Investment Package with SA to which the Honourable Members refer. In the context of this partnership, the EU and SA are engaged in a regular human rights dialogue.

    The Commission follows the programming procedures that are outlined in the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI) — Global Europe Regulation (Articles 13 and 14)[1]. These programming procedures are designed to enhance the effectiveness and responsiveness of EU external action, ensuring that funding is strategically allocated to support sustainable development and address global challenges.

    Applying a human rights-based approach to all interventions is an obligation enshrined in the NDICI — Global Europe Regulation (Article 8). With Global Gateway, the EU aims to embed democratic principles, good governance and transparency in all investments. The EU assesses in each country whether the required pre-conditions for investments exist, including regarding human rights.

    The new Financial Regulation[2] requires that the EU budget be implemented in full respect of EU values, including human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law, and the rights of minorities.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex%3A32021R0947.
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/2509?utm_source.
    Last updated: 27 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Urgent action needed to stop the spread of radical Islam in the EU – P-002042/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002042/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Anna Maria Cisint (PfE)

    On 21 May, Le Figaro published a report on a study commissioned by three French Government ministries which highlights a terrifying truth that can no longer be ignored: radical Islam is spreading like wildfire throughout Europe, the result of an elaborate, predetermined plan which makes use of religious dissimulation, one of the main tenets of Islamic fundamentalism.

    Widely adopted (including by the EU) and favoured by a number of parties, open-door policies have failed miserably, and do not comprehend that we have values and roots which we must defend, and that fundamentalist conspiracies of any kind cannot be allowed to supplant them. This is the biggest challenge of the future, one that institutions must take seriously, especially at the EU level.

    We must put a stop to the widespread dissemination of a worldview that is based on principles that are diametrically opposed to western law and values. Organisations like the Muslim Brotherhood preach violence and anti-Semitism, indoctrinate children and are potentially being funded by terrorist organisations: they are the internal enemy that we must fight if our centuries-old culture is to survive.

    In the light of the above:

    • 1.Was the Commission aware of the French Government report’s findings? What measures will the Commission implement to tackle the spread of radical Islam?
    • 2.Will the Commission, as a precautionary measure, suspend all forms of funding for initiatives aimed at spreading the Islamic faith?

    Submitted: 21.5.2025

    Last updated: 27 May 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Presentation by the European Commission of the CEF-T implementation report – Committee on Transport and Tourism

    Source: European Parliament

    Mr. Philippe Chantraine, Head of Unit for Transport Investment at DG MOVE’s Directorate B, will present the upcoming CEF implementation report. In line with the CEF regulation, this report — the first to cover the 2021-2024 period — provides the Commission’s regular update on the facility’s implementation and sectoral advancements.

    The presentation will specifically address the CEF Transport component, explaining its role in building a more connected, sustainable, and resilient European transport network.

    The exchange of views will take place on Tuesday 3 June 2025 and it will be webstreamed.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Pan-European media project wins European Charlemagne Youth Prize

    Source: European Parliament

    A Hungarian platform on European identity, a Czech project encouraging young people’s vote and a German legal support for discriminated people were recognised in 2025.

    On Tuesday, the European Parliament and the Foundation of the International Charlemagne Prize of Aachen awarded the 2025 European Charlemagne Youth Prize in a ceremony in Aachen.

    First prize – “Forum Europaeum”, Hungary

    The first prize (€7500) went to Forum Europaeum, a pan-European think tank and media outlet which promotes European identity, values, and unity through articles, podcasts, TikTok videos, and interviews. The project’s goal is to explore European identity and societal challenges, through creating spaces for constructive debates on topics relevant to young people.

    Second prize – “Thanks That We Can Vote”, Czech Republic

    The second prize (€5000) was awarded to the Díky, že můžem volit (Thanks That We Can Vote) initiative. Launched to address the low electoral participation of young people in the Czech Republic, it targeted 18-29-old voters during the 2024 European Elections. The project sought to combat apathy, perceived political inefficacy, and fragmented engagement efforts through education, collaboration, and innovative outreach efforts.

    Third prize – Feminist Law Clinic, Germany

    The Feminist Law Clinic, a project providing free legal support, won the third prize (€2500). It deals helps those most affected by gender-based discrimination sexualised violence, and legal uncertainty—particularly women, lesbians, intersex, non-binary, trans, agender, and queer individuals.

    Background

    The European Charlemagne Youth Prize, jointly awarded by the European Parliament and the Foundation of the International Charlemagne Prize of Aachen, is open to initiatives by young people aged 16-30 involved in projects that strengthen democracy and support active participation. Since 2008, 6,500 projects have competed for the prize.

    Every year, national and European juries select a project from each EU member state. 27 national winners were invited to the award ceremony in Aachen on 27 May 2025, where the three overall EU winners were announced.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The phenomenon of telemarketing in Italy – E-001963/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001963/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Isabella Tovaglieri (PfE), Paolo Borchia (PfE), Anna Maria Cisint (PfE), Susanna Ceccardi (PfE), Silvia Sardone (PfE), Aldo Patriciello (PfE), Raffaele Stancanelli (PfE), Roberto Vannacci (PfE)

    Italy has been dogged in recent months by a state of affairs causing discomfort to millions of citizens: ceaseless calls from robots and call centres. This continues to happen despite the fact that many Italian citizens are on the ‘do not call’ register, with an average of two calls per day from call centres[1].

    The problem in this case is that the register is ineffective because the calls come from jurisdictions outside Italian law.

    At European level, this issue could have been regulated in the reform of the ePrivacy Directive, which, in Article 16, governs ‘unsolicited marketing’. Although published in 2017 it has yet to see the light of day.

    Can the Commission therefore say:

    • 1.Whether it is aware of the spread of this phenomenon in Italy?
    • 2.Whether it considers these practices to be compatible with the European legal framework on privacy and direct marketing?
    • 3.Given the deadlock on the proposed ePrivacy Directive, what measures, legislative or otherwise, does it intend to take to protect European consumers from such aggressive forms of marketing?

    Submitted: 15.5.2025

    • [1] https://www.panorama.it/attualita/cronaca/milioni-di-italiani-sono-molestati-dai-call-center-ma-la-legge-non-li-protegge.
    Last updated: 27 May 2025

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