NewzIntel.com

Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – New Israeli bill seeking to impose 80 % tax on foreign donations to NGOs – E-001979/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU is concerned about the draft law in the Israeli Parliament (Knesset) which could impose a tax up to 80% on donations from foreign entities to non-governmental organisations and prevent organisations primarily funded by foreign entities from accessing petition courts. In March 2025, the EU conducted an official demarche on the bill led by the EU Delegation with 15 Member States.

    The EU continues to share its concerns with the Israel authorities on the proposed bill. If passed, the bill will have deep repercussions on EU support to civil society in Israel, in particular on EU-funded projects promoting peace, human rights, environmental policies, gender equality, and social inclusion of marginalised groups.

    As with all its partner countries, the EU will continue to promote a safe and conducive environment for civil society organisations to operate and to safeguard shared values of democracy, freedom of expression and association.

    Due to the untenable situation in the occupied Palestinian territory, the High Representative/Vice-President (HR/VP) launched a review of Israel’s compliance with Article 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement[1].

    The review, presented at the Foreign Affairs Council on 23 June 2025, concluded that there are indications that Israel would be in breach of Article 2.

    The HR/VP will communicate the result of the review to Israel and discuss options to improve the humanitarian situation. Foreign Ministers will revert to the issue in July 2025, as necessary.

    • [1] https://eeas.europa.eu/archives/delegations/israel/documents/eu_israel/asso_agree_en.pdf.
    Last updated: 15 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Attack on a civil Freedom Flotilla vessel in international waters – E-001867/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU is concerned about the reports on the drone attack on the ship carrying humanitarian aid and activists heading for Gaza. Humanitarian aid is needed in Gaza to help people in desperate need. The EU has consistently called on the Israeli government to lift the blockade on Gaza to allow humanitarian aid at scale into and throughout the strip[1][2][3].

    The EU discourages flotillas as a means for aid delivery. They risk the safety of their participants and carry the potential for escalation. However, nothing justifies attacking participants of flotillas with drones.

    The EU has consistently reiterated that in exercising its right to defend itself, Israel must fully comply with its obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law, and to ensure the protection of all civilians, including humanitarian workers and their facilities, at all times . Any investigation into the attack must happen in an impartial and fully transparent manner.

    • [1] https://north-africa-middle-east-gulf.ec.europa.eu/news/joint-statement-high-representative-kallas-and-commissioners-suica-and-lahbib-humanitarian-situation-2025-04-12_en.
    • [2] https://north-africa-middle-east-gulf.ec.europa.eu/news/joint-statement-high-representative-kallas-commissioner-suica-and-commissioner-lahbib-humanitarian-2025-05-07_en.
    • [3] https://north-africa-middle-east-gulf.ec.europa.eu/news/read-out-phone-call-between-president-von-der-leyen-and-his-majesty-king-abdullah-ii-jordan-2025-05-27_en.
    Last updated: 15 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Eritrea: National School Leaving Examination Results Announced

    Source: APO


    .

    The results of the 2025 National School Leaving Examination were announced on 13 July.

    Dr. Bisirat Gebru, Director of Standards and Evaluation at the National Higher Education and Research Institute, indicated that out of the 24,092 students, including 50% female students, who took the examination, 12.2% achieved scores qualifying them for degree programs, and 7.59% for diploma programs.

    Noting that the performance gap between male and female students has been improving over time, Dr. Bisirat encouraged those who passed and qualified for college education to work hard to achieve their goals and to strictly adhere to college regulations.

    Dr. Bisirat also advised students who did not achieve passing marks not to lose hope, and urged them to remain engaged in education, study diligently, and prepare for the next national examination.

    It is to be recalled that the National School Leaving Examination was conducted from 17 to 23 March across the country, including at the international schools of Eritrean communities in Riyadh and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

    Dr. Bisirat further noted that 84.1% of the examinees were regular students from Sawa Warsai-Yikealo Secondary School and technical schools, and that 3,861 students were retaking the exam.

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

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKTE hosts online and offline career fairs to attract global talent dovetailing Hong Kong’s I&T development (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         A spokesman for Hong Kong Talent Engage (HKTE) said today (July 15) that to support Hong Kong’s development as an international innovation and technology (I&T) hub, HKTE had organised three online and offline career fairs during the past three weeks to proactively attract global I&T talent to pursue development in Hong Kong, with a view to contributing to building Hong Kong into an international hub for high-calibre talent.

         HKTE held a online career fair last Thursday and Friday (July 10 and 11), featuring 47 renowned enterprises and organisations, to offer nearly 2 000 quality job vacancies across sectors such as data centre operations, cyber security and business analysis.

         The online career fair recorded nearly 33 000 visits, featuring job-seeking talent mainly from 14 countries or regions, including the Mainland, Singapore, Malaysia, the United Kingdom, Australia, the United States, Canada, Germany, France and Switzerland, with over 3 000 curricula vitae received. To facilitate connections between job-seeking talent and employers, a one-to-one online meeting session was set up specifically at the career fair, resulting in nearly 5 000 direct dialogues.

         A spokesman for the Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited, one of the participating organisations, commented that the career fair facilitated effective interactions between global professionals in artificial intelligence, fintech and smart city technologies as well as digital innovation with Hong Kong employers. Nearly 90 per cent of participating enterprises and organisations expressed satisfaction with the event arrangements and indicated interest in joining future recruitment events organised by HKTE.

         In addition, HKTE co-organised physical job fairs with working partners two weeks ago, including the second edition of the Hong Kong International Talents Career Expo 2025 and the NovaX Global Investmatch Carnival 2025, to connect I&T talent and entrepreneurs with employers and investors, facilitating the settlement of talent in Hong Kong.

         The spokesman for HKTE added that talent is critical to the promotion of I&T development. HKTE will continue organising diverse activities to assist Hong Kong in attracting international I&T talent, including an online career fair targeting European and American markets in the second half of the year, thereby providing solid talent support for the development of the “eight centres” strategic positioning.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Portugal’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan: Latest state of play – 15-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Portugal is set to receive €22.2 billion in grants and loans from the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), the EU response to the crisis triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic. This amount corresponds to 3.1 % of the entire RRF, or 10.7 % of Portugal’s 2019 gross domestic product (GDP), and includes REPowerEU grants (€0.7 billion) and Portugal’s share (€81.4 million) from the Brexit Adjustment Reserve. The Council approved the latest revision of Portugal’s national recovery and resilience plan (NRRP) in May 2025. The plan has a strong focus on the country’s social, economic and environmental resilience, with measures targeting culture, housing, health, broad social responses, and forest and water management. Measures relating to climate transition, including those on industry decarbonisation and energy efficiency of buildings, account for 39.1 % of the allocation. The contribution to digital objectives represents 21.7 % of the allocation, with measures and reforms aimed at public administration and finances, education and businesses. Portugal has so far received €11.4 billion of RRF resources (51.3 % of the plan), which the Commission disbursed in the form of pre-financing and five grant and loan instalments. Portugal’s sixth and seventh payment requests are being assessed. In the context of the 2025 European Semester, the Council has recommended that Portugal accelerate implementation of its plan. The European Parliament has been a major supporter of creating a common EU recovery instrument, and takes part in interinstitutional settings to cooperate, discuss and scrutinise implementation of the Commission’s work. This briefing is one in a series covering all EU Member States. Third edition. The previous editions were written by Henrique Morgado Simões. The ‘NGEU delivery’ briefings are updated at key stages throughout the lifecycle of the plans. The author would like to thank Amalia Fumagalli and Ana Luisa Melo Almeida, trainees in the Directorate Members’ Research Service, for their research assistance.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Population decline in Europe and challenges from migration flows of culturally diverse origins – E-001644/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Having children is a matter of individual choice. The Commission supports Member States in creating favourable social and economic conditions for all Europeans to create a family.

    Indeed, as outlined, for example, in the Demography Toolbox[1], demographic challenges can be addressed through a wide range of adaptation measures, including addressing gaps in labour markets, reforming pension and health systems, promoting the transition to a longevity society, and addressing territorial imbalances through Cohesion policy.

    The Commission is currently analysing the fertility gap, i.e. the difference between desired and actual children per woman, to explore how its determinants can be addressed, where this falls into the Commission competences.

    The Commission has conducted several studies on the impact of migration on population dynamics, labour markets, fiscal systems, and integration in cities.[2]

    There are no studies ongoing nor planned for the near future, that specifically look at the sociocultural impacts linked to migration from culturally diverse areas.

    The action plan on integration and inclusion 2021-2027[3] lays down the measures to be adopted by the Commission and Member States to support the integration of migrants.

    The action plan emphasises the importance of creating cohesive communities and considers the respect of the common European values an essential part of living and participating in European society.

    In that regard, the action plan promotes the development of civic orientation courses to help migrants gain an understanding of the laws, culture and values of the receiving society as early as possible, and places a specific emphasis on addressing vulnerabilities faced by migrant women.

    • [1] Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions — Demographic change in Europe: a toolbox for action,
      COM/2023/577 final.
    • [2] Studies include, for instance, Demographic Scenarios for the EU https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC116398, A Demographic Perspective on the Future of European Labour Force Participation https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC141153, Projecting the net fiscal impact of immigration in the EU https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC121937 or Diversity, residential segregation, concentration of migrants: a comparison across EU cities https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC115159.
    • [3] Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions — Action plan on Integration and Inclusion 2021-2027, COM/2020/758 final.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Criticism of the rainbow flag and of its symbolism – E-001124/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Freedom of expression is a fundamental right and a cherished value. There is, however, a line drawn by fundamental rights law: it must not be exploited to incite hatred and violence.

    Hate speech represents a systemic risk for democracy and fundamental rights, and a threat to the common values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy and equality enshrined in the Treaty on European Union[1].

    Freedom of expression is protected by Article 11 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU[2] (‘the Charter’) and the Commission is committed to ensuring its respect within the remit of its competences. According to its Article 51(1), the Charter applies to Member States when they are implementing EU law.

    The Commission firmly believes that the protection of children and the safeguarding of the fundamental rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ) people are not mutually exclusive.

    The Commission remains fully committed to addressing inequality and discrimination, as outlined in our LGBTIQ Equality Strategy 2020-2025[3].

    As announced in the Commission President’s Political Guidelines[4] and in the 2025 Commission Work Programme[5], the LGBTIQ Equality Strategy will be renewed beyond 2025.

    Where EU law does not apply, Member States remain bound to respect fundamental rights under their national legislation and international human rights obligations, and where applicable, to investigate and prosecute instances of hate speech. The Commission does not comment on ongoing investigations at national level.

    • [1] Treaty of the European Union, OJ C 202, 7.6.2016, p. 1-388.
    • [2] Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, OJ C 326, 26.10.2012, p. 391-407.
    • [3] Union of Equality: LGBTIQ Equality Strategy 2020-2025, COM/2020/698 final.
    • [4] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/e6cd4328-673c-4e7a-8683-f63ffb2cf648_en?filename=Political%20Guidelines%202024-2029_EN.pdf.
    • [5] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/7617998c-86e6-4a74-b33c-249e8a7938cd_en?filename=COM_2025_45_1_annexes_EN.pdf.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Lands Department releases figures on registered lease modifications, land exchanges, private treaty grants and lot extensions in second quarter of 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Lands Department (LandsD) announced today (July 15) that it registered 11 lease modifications and three land exchanges in the Land Registry during the quarter ending June 2025, of which five were modifications of a technical nature involving nil premium.

    Among these 14 land transactions, two are located on Hong Kong Island, eight are in Kowloon and four are in the New Territories. The transactions exclude Small House cases.

    There were no private treaty grants and lot extensions registered during the quarter.

    The above land transactions realised a total land premium of about $102.652 million.

    Transaction records of the lease modifications, land exchanges, private treaty grants and lot extensions, including those registered recently, are uploaded to the LandsD website (www.landsd.gov.hk/en/land-disposal-transaction/land-transaction.html) on a monthly basis. Details of the transactions may be obtained by searching the registered documents in the Land Registry.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Rules for the allocation of EU funding and the autonomy of local authorities – E-001873/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. 

    In accordance with shared management, the conditions for granting the EU support under cohesion policy are defined:

    — At the EU level, principally in the Common Provisions Regulation[1] (CPR) and the Fund-specific regulations.

    — In the Partnership Agreement and the relevant programmes, as well as,

    — In the national rules, pursuant to Article 63(1) CPR.

    The Partnership Agreement and every Polish programme contain a passage: ‘Where the beneficiary is a local authority (or an entity controlled or dependent on it) that has taken any discriminatory action contrary to the principles referred to in Article 9(3) of Regulation 2021/1060, cohesion policy support cannot be granted’.

    2. Regional authorities, fulfilling the role of Managing Authorities, are responsible for ensuring the compliance with the above-mentioned rules also at local level and making sure that there is a widespread understanding on the conditions to receive EU funding.

    3. It is the responsibility of Managing Authority and the Polish Ministry of Development Funds and Regional Development, to ensure compliance with all rules and procedures to receive EU funding in all the territory of Poland. It is the role of the Commission to monitor the management and control systems established in Member States.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2021/1060 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 June 2021 laying down common provisions on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund Plus, the Cohesion Fund, the Just Transition Fund and the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund and financial rules for those and for the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund, the Internal Security Fund and the Instrument for Financial Support for Border Management and Visa Policy (OJ L 231 30.6.2021).
    Last updated: 15 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: World Youth Skills Day: African Development Bank to introduce systems reforms to prioritize investing in Africa’s youth

    Source: APO

    The African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org), in partnership with the International Labour Organization, has launched a transformative system to mainstream youth employment, skills development, and entrepreneurship across its investments. 

    The approach, called the Youth, Jobs and Skills Marker System, is aligned with the Bank’s latest Ten-Year Strategy, which places Africa’s young people at the center of development efforts to maximize the impact of every dollar invested, turning demographics into a dividend. The Marker System ensures that Bank projects spanning diverse sectors, such as agriculture, transport, energy, water, and education, systematically incorporate components that enhance youth employability, foster entrepreneurship, and build market-relevant skills.

    “The Youth, Jobs and Skills Marker System is about ensuring Africa’s young people have a real say and active role in building sustainable economies and creating jobs – not as passive recipients of youth programs,” said Dr. Beth Dunford, the Bank’s Vice President for Agriculture, Human and Social Development. “This transformation of Bank practices and systems is a step toward making sure our investments have a positive impact on Africa’s young women and men.” 

    The integrated system has three focus areas: 

    • Youth: Supporting youth-led micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises through targeted investments and operational integration. 
    • Skills: Expanding access to practical, market-driven training and apprenticeships to enhance career prospects. 
    • Jobs: Ensuring Bank-funded projects create sustainable job opportunities, particularly by developing youth skills for employability and the promotion of youth-led businesses in priority value chains. 

    Each year, around 10 to 12 million young Africans enter the labor market, which offers only three million formal jobs annually. The Bank will prioritize youth entrepreneurship and mobilize private sector partnerships to strengthen industry-oriented skills training as well as job creation over the coming decade.  

    “[This initiative] is very important because it allows us to significantly contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #8 that includes decent work for all,” said Peter van Rooij, Director of Multilateral Partnerships and Development Cooperation at the International Labour Organization. “It also allows the International Labour Organization to influence the Bank’s work, to support their lending that is more geared toward more job creation and better jobs in a sustainable way.”  

    The Youth, Jobs and Skills Marker System is modeled on the success of the Bank’s Gender Marker System and its online dashboard, which categorize Bank projects based on their contribution to gender equality and women’s empowerment. Similarly, the new system will feature an online platform enabling Bank staff and consultants to access real-time data for preparing country strategy papers, mid-term reviews, annual reports, project supervision, and reporting on youth-related skills, businesses and jobs outcomes. 

    The Bank has just launched a pilot version of the Youth, Jobs and Skills Marker System in readiness for the full implementation in 2026. This system will enhance data tracking, improve estimates of youth skills attainment and employment, strengthen labor market information systems, and support policymakers in making evidence-based decisions that drive meaningful change. 

    The International Labour Organization provided technical support for the system’s development with financial support from the Bank’s Youth Entrepreneurship and Innovation Multi-Donor Trust Fund. The Youth, Jobs and Skills Marker System is the first deliberate action of its kind developed by a development finance institution worldwide. 

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

    To learn more about the Youth, Jobs and Skills Marker System, watch this video: https://apo-opa.co/3Gs3JEZ

    Media Contact: 
    Alphonso Van Marsh
    Chief Digital Content and Events Officer 
    media@afdb.org

    About the African Development Bank Group: 
    The African Development Bank Group is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU citizens and cohesion policy – E-002825/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002825/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Mihai Tudose (S&D)

    The latest Eurobarometer survey shows that EU citizens have a positive view of the impact of EU regional policy. The survey also highlights the areas that EU citizens consider to be priorities: they would predominantly like to see improved health and education infrastructure, job creation, greater energy efficiency and access to housing, and enhanced transport infrastructure and defence capabilities.

    Half of the citizens canvassed call for EU cohesion policy to focus specifically on areas with high unemployment (63 %), disadvantaged urban areas (51 %) and remote rural or mountainous regions (50 %).

    How does the Commission plan to reflect the views of EU citizens in its action in the field of regional cohesion?

    Submitted: 10.7.2025

    Last updated: 15 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU citizens and cohesion policy – E-002825/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002825/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Mihai Tudose (S&D)

    The latest Eurobarometer survey shows that EU citizens have a positive view of the impact of EU regional policy. The survey also highlights the areas that EU citizens consider to be priorities: they would predominantly like to see improved health and education infrastructure, job creation, greater energy efficiency and access to housing, and enhanced transport infrastructure and defence capabilities.

    Half of the citizens canvassed call for EU cohesion policy to focus specifically on areas with high unemployment (63 %), disadvantaged urban areas (51 %) and remote rural or mountainous regions (50 %).

    How does the Commission plan to reflect the views of EU citizens in its action in the field of regional cohesion?

    Submitted: 10.7.2025

    Last updated: 15 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Public health risk from the presence of asbestos in public buildings in Greece – E-001913/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    At EU level, asbestos is recognised as a hazardous carcinogen. The Commission is promoting the protection of people and the environment by adopting and enforcing EU legislation related to asbestos management and control.

    In its communication on working towards an asbestos-free future[1], the Commission called upon all EU institutions, Member States, social partners and other stakeholders to accelerate action to achieve an asbestos-free EU for current and future generations.

    As regards the complete removal of asbestos from public buildings, considering that the magnitude of the asbestos presence, as well as screening, registration and removal strategies, differs considerably among Member States, the Commission is examining different possibilities to create a common EU framework to support Member States in monitoring and registering the presence of asbestos in buildings.

    Currently no obligation has been established at EU level in this regard and Member States, including Greece, are free to implement any action needed to completely remove asbestos from public buildings.

    The EU provides significant funding through the Recovery and Resilience Facility, which can be used to support national measures for the removal of asbestos in the context of renovations.

    In addition, Cohesion policy supports measures related to renovations and the modernisation of public infrastructure, including educational buildings.

    If asbestos is present in buildings undergoing energy renovation works financed by EU funds[2], its removal could be undertaken as part of the renovation.

    As Cohesion policy Funds are implemented under shared management between the Commission and Member States, and the latter are responsible for the selection of projects.

    • [1]  COM/2022/488 final, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52022DC0488.
    • [2] Such as energy upgrades in schools.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Extraterritorial processing of asylum claims – 15-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    In the past decade, continuous migration and asylum pressure on European Union Member States has made the external dimension of the EU’s approach to migration management all the more important. The need to address challenges relating to external border management has reoriented EU migration policy towards extended and stricter border controls, combined with the externalisation of migration management through cooperation with third countries. Thus, the external processing of asylum claims has also been put forward as a possibility. Overall, asylum is governed by international, EU and national laws. Both EU and national asylum legislation must be aligned with the international legal framework. Although EU law does not provide for the processing of asylum applications outside the EU, the idea of ‘transit’ or ‘processing’ centres in third countries has been recurrent over the years. Examples of externalisation procedures can be found around the world. Some non-EU countries, such as Australia and the United States, have practical experience of the extra-territorial processing of asylum claims. Within Europe, back in 1986 Denmark tabled a draft resolution in the United Nations (UN) General Assembly to create UN centres where asylum claims could be processed, in order to coordinate the resettlement of refugees among all states. Later, in 2001 and 2002, when the EU experienced the first peak of migrant arrivals in the EU, this was followed by a series of proposals involving the external processing of asylum requests. Extraterritorial processing was first put forward by the United Kingdom in 2003, while Germany proposed the establishment of asylum centres in North Africa in 2005. The series of proposals made over the years with a view to externalising migration policies have raised concerns, not least in relation to the human rights implications, asylum procedures and EU and international law. This briefing updates an earlier edition, of January 2024, by the present authors along with Anita Orav.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Eritrean Community Festival in the United Kingdom (UK)

    Source: APO


    .

    The 2025 Eritrean Community Festival in the United Kingdom was colorfully conducted on 12 and 13 July in London under the theme “Our Cohesion – Our Armour.”

    The festival, in which about 2,000 nationals from various cities in Britain took part, was officially opened by Mr. Saleh Abdella, Chargé d’Affaires at the Eritrean Embassy in the UK and Northern Ireland.

    Mr. Mulubrhan Berhe, Chairman of the Holidays Coordinating Committee, and Mr. Ahmed Mahmud, Chairman of the National Committee, commended all those who contributed to the successful implementation of the program and thanked the participants.

    Mr. Saleh Abdella stated that this year’s festival was particularly significant as it was held at a time when the Eritrean people are focused on national development programs while confronting and foiling external conspiracies and hostilities. He also called on nationals to strengthen unity, foster deeper connections with their homeland, and enhance participation in national affairs.

    Mr. Tewolde Yohannes, Head of Public and Community Affairs, also conducted a seminar for participants focusing on the objective situation in the homeland and the region. Mr. Tewolde stated that Eritrea, firmly standing by its national principles, continues to make earnest contributions to regional peace and stability.

    The festival featured cultural and artistic performances, sports competitions, and children’s programs.

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

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Access to cutting-edge technology in the European Union – E-002817/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002817/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Beatrice Timgren (ECR)

    Despite emerging technologies, batteries for phones sold in Europe seem to have a maximum capacity of around 5 000 mAh. Meanwhile, it is not uncommon to see identical handsets in other regions, such as Asia, with battery capacities exceeding 6 000 mAh.

    Smartphone manufacturer OnePlus points to European laws and regulations regarding the transportation of single-cell batteries as the cause of this disparity[1]. The manufacturer explains that European laws affect the maximum size of a single battery cell. Manufacturers therefore either have to sell smartphones with smaller battery capacities or opt to manufacture smartphones that use dual-cell batteries.

    In the light of the above:

    • 1.Can the Commission confirm whether the battery capacity disparities are, either directly or indirectly, a result of any EU legislation?
    • 2.If the answer to the first question is in the affirmative, how will the Commission ensure the competitiveness of European smartphone manufacturers, which have to adhere to different rules than their non-EU competitors?
    • 3.If the answer to the first question is in the affirmative, how will the Commission ensure that EU citizens have access to modern technology, in the same way that the rest of the world has?

    Submitted: 10.7.2025

    • [1] https://www.androidauthority.com/oneplus-phones-smaller-batteries-3453725/.
    Last updated: 15 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Limitation of the parliamentary right of inquiry – facts which are being examined before a court – E-002758/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002758/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Marieke Ehlers (PfE)

    Article 226 TFEU and Article 3 of the Decision of 6 March 1995 on the detailed provisions governing the exercise of the European Parliament’s right of inquiry state that a parliamentary committee of inquiry investigates alleged contraventions of Union law or instances of maladministration in the implementation of Union law, except where the alleged facts are being examined before a court and while the case is still subject to legal proceedings.

    Since the exception applies to FACTS that are being examined before a court, does this mean that facts that are being examined in appeal proceedings before the Court of Justice of the European Union fall outside this exception, and thus do fall within the remit of parliamentary inquiry law, since in such appeal proceedings the facts themselves are not re-examined, as these appeal proceedings are limited solely to questions of law?

    Submitted: 7.7.2025

    Last updated: 15 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU funds paid to Hungary – clarification of disbursement dates – E-002773/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002773/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Daniel Freund (Verts/ALE)

    According to the Commission’s reply to Written Question E-001620/2025[1], the Commission disbursed approximately EUR 9.5 billion to Hungary between December 2022 and May 2025. Further to its reply, can the Commission provide a more detailed breakdown and indicate the specific dates on which the respective payments to Hungary were made and what amounts were transferred?

    Submitted: 8.7.2025

    • [1] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2025-001620-ASW_EN.html.
    Last updated: 15 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Interconnectivity funding – E-002824/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002824/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Mihai Tudose (S&D)

    The Commission has selected 94 transport projects to which it is allocating EUR 2.8 billion in EU grants under the Connecting Europe Facility. This is an encouraging signal for connectivity, mobility and competitiveness in the EU. I welcome the focus on strategic and solidarity investments, such as the improvement of rail connectivity and border crossing points between Romania and the Republic of Moldova.

    So far, 95 % of the Connecting Europe Facility budget (EUR 25.8 billion for 2021-2027) has already been allocated to the projects selected.

    Given the clear value of investing in interconnectivity, and its strategic nature, how much does the Commission envisage allocating to it in the next Multiannual Financial Framework?

    Submitted: 10.7.2025

    Last updated: 15 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Dialogues strengthen Unity women’s role in peace and security

    Source: APO


    .

    In South Sudan, entrenched patriarchal norms and the effects of years of conflict continue to hinder women from participating in peacebuilding and governance. Early marriages, widespread gender-based violence, and exclusion from decision-making remain real hurdles for the implementation of their substantially increased and meaningful inclusion in matters that matter.

    The slow progress does not, however, deter women in Unity State from advocating for their rights and building informal networks of influence at the grassroots level. Some, like the young teacher Elizabeth Nyatab, are prepared to play the long game – if that is what it takes.

    “I encourage parents to educate their daughters, because without schooling, it will be difficult also for future generations of women to play prominent roles in decision-making, We have no choice but to break the cultural norms that confine many of us to the domestic sphere,” she said.

    In fact, Ms. Nyatab made her point on behalf of a group of women leaders representing local authorities, state institutions and civil society groups. Together, they, and other similar small groups, were presenting their findings resulting from discussions on how to increase women’s real participation in peace, security and other processes of public interest.

    Of much such interest are South Sudan’s first post-independence elections, another subject that sparked lively debate during a week of civic engagement activities in Bentiu, Rubkona and Rotriak/Lalop. While many saw elections as a path to legitimacy and stability, others voiced concerns about prevailing insecurity and political divisions.

    “If our country wants credible elections, political detainees must be released and the army united under one national command. Conditions for the free and fair participation for all are also essential for this dream to come true,” opined Angelina Nyawuora Turoal, former Chairperson of a network of civil society organizations in Rubkona.

    The dialogue sessions were conducted by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and counted on the support of its Electoral Affairs Division.

    “This week of conversations made it clear that women, on the rise and challenging norms in Unity State and elsewhere, must have their voices heard. And there is more, because their words need to be acted on as well,” concluded Alexandre Marie Rose Fernande Alexandre, a Civil Affairs Officer serving with the UN peacekeeping mission.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Need for clarification of the impact of tax measures on EU funding in Romania – P-002855/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002855/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Victor Negrescu (S&D)

    It is essential that Romania make sustained efforts to attract and efficiently use EU funding.

    Against this backdrop, I would draw attention to risks that could affect Romania’s ability to access and use this funding efficiently, especially in the context of recent fiscal and administrative measures. I call for urgent clarifications from the Commission, to prevent any blockages or loss of funding:

    • 1.Has the Commission assessed the impact of the increase in VAT on the eligibility of EU projects of a value below EUR 5 million, especially given that until now VAT has been applicable to such projects?
    • 2.What measures is the Commission considering in the event that wage cuts or administrative restructuring impact on staff paid from EU funds, which could mean significant sums being forfeited, such as those already reported by several institutions such as the Romanian Ministry of Investments and European Projects or the Ministry of Agriculture?
    • 3.How does the Commission ensure that the assessment of the level of implementation of NRRP projects and decisions on their termination take into account the specificities of each project, and not just an arbitrary percentage threshold, and does not affect the EU’s image?

    Submitted: 14.7.2025

    Last updated: 15 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Ukraine: MEPs encourage EU reforms and urge opening of negotiation clusters

    Source: European Parliament

    MEPs encourage the Ukrainian government to maintain its pace on implementing EU-related reforms while reaffirming the EU’s commitment to a just and lasting peace.

    The report by the Foreign Affairs Committee, which reviews Ukraine’s EU accession preparations against the backdrop of Russia’s ongoing war of aggression, was adopted on Tuesday morning by 55 votes in favour, 12 against with 3 abstentions. MEPs confirm their unwavering commitment to Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity while calling on the EU and its member states to actively work towards maintaining the broadest international support for Kyiv, and identifying a peaceful solution to the war based on international law and respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Any peaceful solution must respect the will of the Ukrainian people and not be imposed by any other international actor, they say.

    MEPs want Ukraine to intensify rule of law, judicial and anti-corruption reforms

    MEPs commend the country’s extraordinary efforts in strengthening its democratic institutions at an extremely difficult time and encourage Kyiv to maintain this reform momentum. They welcome progress in judicial reforms while noting, the judiciary in Ukraine remains one of the sectors more vulnerable to corruption and political interference. MEPs highlight the importance of transparent and merit-based selection processes for judicial and anti-corruption bodies, based on the recommendations of independent national and international experts. They also call on Ukraine to intensify rule of law and public administration reforms as well as anti-corruption measures, “as progress in these areas is critical not only for EU membership but also for successful reconstruction and economic trust”.

    The full assessment report with all its recommendations will be available shortly here.

    The Foreign Affairs Committee recommends the European Commission open negotiating clusters to advance the country’s EU membership bid at the fastest pace possible, subject to its continued implementation of the EU’s rulebook and the completion of reforms it has already launched.

    The EU must remain Ukraine’s strategic ally

    The report also expresses deep concern over the shift in the United States’ stance on Russia’s war of aggression under President Donald Trump. In light of these developments, MEPs stress that the EU and its member states must remain Ukraine’s strategic allies and should reinforce their leadership role in supporting Ukraine’s struggle for sovereignty, peace and justice. This includes increasing the effectiveness and accelerating the delivery of military, material and financial assistance to Ukraine, pursuing comprehensive accountability and justice measures, and keeping EU sanctions firmly in place as the best instrument to undermine Russia’s war machine. MEPs also want more measures to tackle sanctions evasion and an accelerated phasing out of Russian hydrocarbon products in the EU.

    Quote

    “We admire and firmly support Ukraine and we wish to stabilise and accelerate its European journey. Renewed efforts for judicial and anti-corruption reforms, for strengthening local and regional authorities, the Ukrainian parliament and its members as well as civil society are required from the Ukrainian actors and will be important steps on that way”, said rapporteur Michael Gahler (EPP, Germany) after the vote.

    Background

    This report is the first enlargement report on Ukraine since the start of the full-scale Russian invasion, the granting of EU candidate status to Ukraine, and the start of accession negotiations. Enlargement reports are Parliament’s response to the Commission’s annual reports on the candidate and potential candidate countries in the EU accession process. The resolutions adopted in plenary represent the European Parliament’s official position as regards EU relations with these countries.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on recognising lithium as a dietary micronutrient – B10-0349/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    B10‑0349/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on recognising lithium as a dietary micronutrient

    The European Parliament,

     – having regard to Article 168 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

    – having regard to Directive 2002/46/EC of 10 June 2002 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to food supplements[1],

    – having regard to Rule 149 of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas lithium is a naturally occurring trace element present in food and water;

    B. whereas scientific evidence suggests lithium at microdoses (0.5-1 mg/day) may support neurological health and emotional regulation;

    C. whereas lithium is not currently authorised as a food supplement in the EU, despite low-dose forms (e.g. lithium orotate) being used safely elsewhere;

    1. Calls on the Commission to request that the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) evaluate lithium’s nutritional role and safety as a trace element;

    2. Suggests the authorisation of safe, low-dose lithium salts (e.g. lithium orotate) as food supplements;

    3. Urges the Member States to enable regulated access to low-dose lithium supplements pending EFSA review.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Call for caution amid increased road fatalities

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Tuesday, July 15, 2025

    The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has reiterated its call to motorists to exercise caution and show respect to each other on the roads.

    This call comes after a spate of fatal crashes that claimed 15 lives since last Thursday.

    The RTMC expressed concern over the increase in road fatalities, attributing the collisions to reckless and negligent driving. In all three incidents, vehicles were involved in head-on collisions.

    On Sunday, 13 July 2025, two vehicles collided on the N18, approximately 40km from Mahikeng toward Setlagole in the Ngaka Modiri Molema District, North West Province. Four people died on the scene. A fifth victim’s body was later discovered when fire emergency vehicles were booked into the South African Police Service pound for safekeeping.

    Another fatal crash in North West occurred on Friday, when four vehicles were involved in a multi-car crash on the N4 between Swartruggens and Groot Marico, resulting in five deaths.

    “It is alleged that one vehicle collided with another [and] two other vehicles also crashed into each other at the scene,” RTMC spokesperson, Simon Zwane said.

    On Thursday, five more people, including a toddler, were killed in the Northern Cape when a light delivery vehicle that was being chased by the police collided head-on with another vehicle travelling in the opposite direction. The crash took place on the N18 near Hartswater. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Work begins on multi-storey refurbishment and improvement programme

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    The work is necessary to extend the life expectancy of the buildings so they can continue to provide homes to local residents for years to come. 

    The programme will see significant works carried out to the interiors of communal areas and exteriors of the blocks at Pomarium, Market, Milne, Lickley, and Potterhill. This will enhance the interior areas of the blocks and transform how the blocks look on the outside. Planned work includes upgrading external wall insulation, roof coverings, balconies, handrails, walkways, balustrades, passenger lifts, and fire safety measures. 

    The Council plans to carry out the programme of works through a phased approach starting with Blocks 7-51 and 52-95 Pomarium Street, followed by Lickley, Milne and Market Courts and Potterhill as the final block. 

    Scaffolding will be erected around 7-51 Pomarium Street over the next few weeks as the improvement programme gets underway. Work on the block is scheduled to be completed by May 2026. Work will begin in August on 52-95 Pomarium Street, which is scheduled to be finished in April 2026.  

    The improvement programme will then move on to Lickley Court. 

    The aim of the works is to make all the homes safer and more comfortable to live in by: 

    • Significantly reducing energy demand 

    • Improving ventilation to reduce the build-up of moisture, damp and mould 

    • Improving fire safety 

    • Making homes easier to heat 

    • Reducing carbon emissions 

    • Reducing energy consumption 

    • Extending the life expectancy of the blocks 

    • Improved internal and external visual appearance. 

    The programme also aims to bring all six blocks up to a standard known as Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing (EESSH2). This is the minimum energy efficiency standard for social housing and are targets set by the Scottish Government in the move to more energy efficient homes. 

    We have carried out a programme of engagement with all residents and homeowners ahead of the start of the works. Homeowners are expected to meet their share of the costs, and we have worked to put a range of options and support in place to help them if they need any assistance. 

    Housing and Social Wellbeing Convener, Councillor Tom McEwan, said: “This represents a significant investment for the Council, but the structural maintenance programme is vital for ensuring our multi-storey blocks remain safe, warm, and secure for current and future residents for years to come.  

    “The work will transform the blocks inside and out, enhancing the environment for both residents and the general population.   

    “It will massively improve the lives of people who live in the blocks. People who have bought their homes, and landlords, will be required to make a contribution and we have worked diligently to provide a range of supportive options for homeowners, including Scottish Government grant funding, flexible repayment plans and a buy-back option. Our aim is to assist homeowners through this period and help secure the future of their homes.” 

    More information on the improvement programme is available at: Multi-Storey Refurbishment Works. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The government has extended the implementation period of the program for the socio-economic development of Crimea and Sevastopol

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The decision was made on the instructions of the President.

    Document

    Order dated July 14, 2025 No. 1900-r

    The implementation period of the state program “Socio-economic development of the Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol” has been extended until 2030. The order to this effect was signed by the Chairman of the Government Mikhail Mishustin. The previous version of the state program assumed the completion of its activities in 2027.

    Continuing the implementation of the state program will make it possible to create new educational and medical institutions, build more than 160 km of gas supply and distribution networks, repair 628 km of water supply and sanitation networks, and bring more than 1.2 thousand km of roads into compliance. It is also planned to implement projects to create six tourist infrastructure facilities and carry out major repairs to five cultural heritage sites.

    In addition, it is planned to complete the development of part of the exits from the Tavrida highway, continue the construction of treatment facilities for the medical cluster facilities in Sevastopol, and finance the restoration of coastal protection structures located in Crimea and on the territory of the yacht marina in Sevastopol.

    The President instructed the Government to ensure the extension of the state program implementation period until 2030 following a meeting devoted to issues of socio-economic development of the Republic of Crimea and Sevastopol. It took place in January 2025.

    “With the support of the President and the Prime Minister, we are creating the necessary conditions for a comfortable life on the Crimean Peninsula. Over the years of the state program for the development of Crimea and Sevastopol, more than 700 objects and events have been completed, which have eliminated basic infrastructure restrictions on the peninsula, including ensuring the energy security of the region, transport accessibility with the mainland of Russia. It is important that the program works comprehensively: it not only modernizes the infrastructure, but also creates new opportunities for business – for this, a free economic zone is in place. Extending the program until 2030 is an important step to complete the projects that have been started and launch new ones. We are planning large-scale work: from road construction to modernization of social facilities. This will improve the quality of life of people and give an additional boost to the region’s economy,” said Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.

    The signed document introduces changes toGovernment Order of November 11, 2010 No. 1950-r.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sergei Sobyanin: 296 educational facilities have been built in Moscow since 2020

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Since 2020, 296 educational facilities have been built in the city – 49 were put into operation in 2024 alone. The new Moscow schools and kindergartens are conveniently located, they have comfortable conditions, and use modern technologies. Sergei Sobyanin reported this in on your telegram channel.

    “During this time, over 100 thousand places for schoolchildren and preschoolers have been created in Moscow. All buildings are constructed taking into account modern requirements. These are spacious and light premises with thoughtful zoning and all the necessary equipment,” the Moscow Mayor wrote.

    Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @mos_sobyanin

    Schools have universal and specialized classrooms, laboratories for studying natural sciences. Kindergartens have sports grounds and spaces for the comprehensive development of children.

    The largest number of schools and kindergartens were built in Troitsky and Novomoskovsky, as well as in the Northern and Western administrative districts.

    One of the largest schools was built in Rasskazovka: it is designed for 2,100 children. A kindergarten for 220 children opened between Kaluzhskoe and Kievskoe highways, another one for 300 children – in Izmailovo. A new building appeared in Begovoy district Cadet School No. 1784 named after Army General V.A. Matrosov.

    The facilities are being built both with funds from the capital’s Targeted Investment Program and by investors. By the end of 2026, it is planned to build about 160 more schools and kindergartens.

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

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Israel intercepts drone launched from Yemen towards Red Sea resort

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    JERUSALEM, July 15 (Xinhua) — Israel said Tuesday it intercepted a drone launched by Houthi forces in Yemen toward the Red Sea city of Eilat.

    “The Israeli Air Force intercepted an unmanned aerial vehicle that was launched from Yemen,” the Israeli army said in a statement.

    Since the start of the Gaza war in October 2023, Houthi forces have fired dozens of rockets and drones into Israel to show solidarity with the Palestinians. Most of the missiles were intercepted or failed to reach their targets. Israel responded with a series of strikes on ports and other infrastructure in Yemen. –0–

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

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Xi Jinping Meets with Heads of Foreign Delegations Participating in SCO Council of Foreign Ministers Meeting

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, July 15 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Beijing on Tuesday with foreign ministers and officials of the permanent bodies of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), who are in China to attend a meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the SCO member states.

    He noted that over the 24 years since its founding, the SCO has consistently adhered to the “Shanghai Spirit”, becoming increasingly mature and strong, while demonstrating high vitality.

    China always regards the SCO as a priority in its diplomacy with neighboring countries, striving to make the organization more pragmatic and strong, so as to properly ensure regional security and stability, promote the development and prosperity of member states, and build a closer community with a shared future, Xi said.

    He added that since China assumed the rotating presidency of the SCO in July last year, the country has actively held events and developed cooperation, with all parties taking decisive steps to jointly build a beautiful common home for the SCO.

    In connection with the upcoming SCO summit in the Chinese city of Tianjin this year, Xi Jinping expressed hope to meet with leaders of other member states at the event to jointly discuss the future development of the SCO.

    He stressed that in the current circumstances, when the world is undergoing changes and upheavals, the SCO must remain focused and confident, act effectively and play a more active role to bring more stability and positive energy to the world. -0-

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

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Robots Deliver Goods on Subway in Shenzhen

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, July 15 (Xinhua) — Robots independently delivered goods on the subway in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen on Monday, according to a report on the portal of the Shenzhen Municipal People’s Government on Tuesday.

    According to the report, several robots successfully carried out unmanned off-peak deliveries on the subway on Monday. The delivery was made possible by an artificial intelligence-based dispatching algorithm.

    Moreover, the report notes, these robots are designed to deliver goods to 7-Eleven convenience stores at metro stations.

    In addition to the aforementioned dispatching algorithm, the robots are also equipped with a number of other technologies and components, including a panoramic lidar and a mechanical chassis. All this allows them to independently plan the optimal delivery route, not get lost on the road, and travel autonomously in a subway car.

    In the future, it is expected that such robots will be able to increase the efficiency of using the metro’s capacity during off-peak times and improve the efficiency of delivering goods to retail outlets. -0-

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

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    MIL OSI Russia News –