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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Cyber solidarity act – 10-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Russia’s war against Ukraine has revealed the extent of our dependency on digital technology and the fragility of the digital space. It has triggered a surge in cyber-attacks that have been particularly disruptive when targeting critical infrastructure – such as energy, health or finance – because of the increasing reliance on information technology, rendering this infrastructure all the more vulnerable. Against this backdrop, the Commission has proposed a regulation on a cyber solidarity act that would address the urgent need to strengthen solidarity and EU capacities to detect, prepare for and respond to cybersecurity threats and incidents. The adopted regulation envisages the establishment of a framework based on three pillars. The first is a European cybersecurity alert system – a pan-European infrastructure network consisting of national and cross-border interconnected security operation centres or ‘cyber hubs’. The second is a cybersecurity emergency mechanism to improve the EU’s cyber resilience by supporting – including financially – preparedness, response and mutual assistance actions among Member States and creating a European cybersecurity reserve of trusted providers. The third is a cybersecurity incident review mechanism to assess and review significant or large-scale incidents. The Cyber Solidarity Act was published in the EU’s Official Journal on 15 January 2025. It entered into force on 4 February 2025 and became binding in its entirety and directly applicable in all Member States. Third edition. The ‘EU Legislation in Progress’ briefings are updated at key stages throughout the legislative procedure.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 10, 2025

  • Panch Sankalpa of NEP 2020 to guide universities in building Viksit Bharat: Education Minister

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated the two-day Vice-Chancellors’ Conference of Central Universities at Kevadia, Gujarat, on Thursday. The event brought together over 50 Vice Chancellors of leading central universities to review and strategize the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and to align their institutions with the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

    Pradhan highlighted the sweeping changes India’s higher education system has undergone in the past decade, calling it a fundamental transformation marked by flexibility, interdisciplinarity, inclusivity, and innovation. He noted that total student enrolment has increased to 4.46 crore—up 30% since 2014–15—with female enrolment growing by 38%. For the first time, the gross enrolment ratio (GER) for females now exceeds that of males. Ph.D. enrolment has almost doubled, and female Ph.D. scholars have increased by 136%. GER has also improved significantly among Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Castes, reflecting the government’s commitment to inclusive education and social equity.

    The Minister introduced the “Panch Sankalpa” (five resolutions) of NEP 2020—Next-Gen Emerging Education, Multidisciplinary Education, Innovative Education, Holistic Education, and Bharatiya Education—as the guiding principles for transforming higher education institutions into future-ready, value-based learning centres. He urged Vice Chancellors to adopt a “Students-First” approach and ensure that institutions become engines of empowerment, skilling, and nation-building.

    Shri Pradhan stressed the importance of raising the GER in higher education to 50% by 2035. He said this goal would require urgent action in redesigning curricula, strengthening digital infrastructure, promoting faculty development, and encouraging multidisciplinary and multilingual approaches.

    Calling for full implementation of NEP 2020, the Minister urged each university to prepare a comprehensive strategy paper. This should include integration of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS), adoption of technology-driven education, skilling initiatives, and the organisation of conferences like the VC Conference at the university level.

    The Minister also underlined the importance of the “Academic Triveni Sangamam”—celebrating India’s cultural past, recalibrating the present narrative, and shaping the future global role of Indian higher education.

    In his address, Dr. Hasmukh Adhia, Chancellor of the Central University of Gujarat, emphasized the relevance of the six principles of Karmayoga and the foundational value of Indian Knowledge Systems in shaping both individual character and national progress.

    Secretary of Higher Education Dr. Vineet Joshi, reflecting on the five-year journey of NEP 2020, described the conference as an opportunity to assess achievements and refine future strategies. He reiterated that NEP 2020 reimagines higher education institutions not merely as degree-granting bodies but as ecosystems fostering innovation, critical thinking, and holistic development.

    Additional Secretary Dr. Sunil Barnwal underscored the five foundational pillars of NEP—Access, Equity, Quality, Affordability, and Accountability—emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts among all stakeholders to achieve the policy’s goals.

    In his concluding remarks, Prof. Rama Shanker Dubey, Vice Chancellor of the Central University of Gujarat, assured that central universities would take proactive steps to align their strategies with the vision of Viksit Bharat.

    Over the course of two days, the conference will feature ten thematic sessions focused on key dimensions of higher education reform, including curriculum redesign under NHEQF/NCrF, future job readiness, digital platforms like SWAYAM and AAPAR, university governance through the SAMARTH system, equitable access in higher education, promotion of education in Indian languages, innovation, internationalisation, faculty development through the Malaviya Mission, and integration of traditional knowledge systems.

    Participating institutions include the University of Delhi, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Central University of Rajasthan, Central University of Kashmir, Indira Gandhi National Tribal University (IGNTU), Tripura University, Sikkim University, National Sanskrit University, and many others.

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – New evidence of health risks associated with glyphosate use – E-002696/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002696/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Anja Hazekamp (The Left)

    Amid ongoing safety concerns, glyphosate remains the most widely used pesticide in the EU. In 2015, the International Agency for Research on Cancer found glyphosate to be carcinogenic to animals and probably to humans[1]. A Parliament appeal to ban glyphosate was ignored[2].

    The Commission has stated ‘if evidence emerges that indicates that the approval criteria are no longer fulfilled, a review of the approval at EU level may be initiated at any time and the Commission will take action immediately to amend or withdraw the approval if this is scientifically warranted’[3].

    Now, a new Environmental Health study confirms that glyphosate has probable carcinogenic effects after long-term exposure to ‘safe’ doses[4].

    Considering these findings:

    • 1.Does the Commission maintain its claim that using glyphosate until 2033 is safe, and if so, how is this assessment justified?
    • 2.What steps will it take in response to the study, for example, is it willing to immediately trigger a review of the approval, as provided for in Article 21 of Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009, as the study suggests glyphosate meets the cut-off criteria, and to prepare an immediate withdrawal of the approval?
    • 3.Why does the Commission prioritise uncritical, industry-financed studies over impartial research?

    Submitted: 2.7.2025

    • [1] https://www.iarc.who.int/news-events/glyphosate-monograph-now-available/.
    • [2] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/TA-8-2017-0395_EN.html.
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/qanda_23_5793.
    • [4] https://ehjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12940-025-01187-2.
    Last updated: 10 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Compatibility of the fees for early termination of electricity contracts, as laid down in Latvia’s legislation, with EU regulations. Part one – E-002705/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002705/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Vilis Krištopans (PfE)

    • 1.Is the fee for the early termination of a contract provided for in Articles 23 and 27 of Latvia’s Regulation No 635 of 7 November 2023 entitled ‘Regulation on the trade in and use of electricity’[1] to be regarded as a fee related to switching electricity supplier within the meaning of Article 12 of Directive (EU) 2019/944 of the European Parliament and of the Council?[2]
    • 2.Is the fee for the early termination of a contract provided for in Latvia’s Regulation No 635 of 7 November 2023 entitled ‘Regulation on the trade in and use of electricity’ incompatible with Directive (EU) 2019/944 if the above-mentioned regulation does not impose a ceiling on fees for the early termination of a contract?
    • 3.Is the fee for the early termination of a contract provided for in Latvia’s Regulation No 635 of 7 November 2023 entitled ‘Regulation on the trade in and use of electricity’ incompatible with Directive (EU) 2019/944 if the above-mentioned regulation does not lay down criteria for ensuring that fees for the early termination of a contract are proportionate?

    Submitted: 2.7.2025

    • [1] https://likumi.lv/ta/id/347235-elektroenergijas-tirdzniecibas-un-lietosanas-noteikumi.
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2019/944/oj/?locale=LV.
    Last updated: 10 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 10, 2025

  • Heavy rainfall likely to continue over northwest, central India: IMD

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday said that heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely to continue over northwest India for the next 2 to 3 days and over central India for the next 4 to 5 days.

    According to the latest IMD update, regions likely to witness very heavy rainfall today include Himachal Pradesh, Jammu, Punjab, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh.

    Uttarakhand is expected to receive heavy showers on July 13, while western Rajasthan may see intense rainfall on July 14.

    East Rajasthan and western Madhya Pradesh are expected to be impacted between July 11 and 14, and eastern Madhya Pradesh from July 10 to 12.

    Weather forecast for Delhi-NCR (July 10-13)

    In the Delhi-NCR region, the IMD has issued a detailed weather forecast.

    Today, the city is likely to experience a generally cloudy sky with light to moderate rainfall across most areas and heavy rainfall at isolated locations, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning. The maximum temperature is expected to remain between 28°C and 30°C—significantly below normal by 6 to 8 degrees Celsius.

    On July 11, Delhi will see very light to light rain with thunderstorms and lightning, while maximum temperatures will rise slightly to 33–35°C and minimum temperatures will hover around 23–25°C. Both maximum and minimum temperatures will stay below seasonal averages.

    July 12 and 13 are expected to bring partly cloudy skies and light rainfall, along with occasional thunderstorms. Daytime temperatures will range between 34°C and 36°C, while nighttime temperatures will stay near or slightly below normal.

    Surface winds in the region will vary in direction and speed, with light to moderate breezes expected throughout the forecast period.

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Ensuring that demand meets supply in the CO2 storage market – E-002712/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002712/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Tom Berendsen (PPE), Christian Ehler (PPE)

    Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a key tool for achieving climate neutrality in Europe, especially in hard-to-abate industrial sectors. In the light of this, the EU has set a target of 50 million tonnes (Mt) of annual operational CO2 injection capacity by 2030[1]. However, this supply-side target is set irrespective of projected demand. Keeping in mind the need to capture 250 Mt of CO2 annually by 2040[2], the EU must develop the CCS business case and ensure that demand meets supply in the CO2 storage market.

    • 1.Considering that Member States plan to capture 42.4 million tonnes of CO₂ in 2030 (based on the information available[3]), to what extent does the Commission expect actual demand to meet the targeted supply of 50 Mt storage capacity in 2030, and how does it expect the market to develop beyond 2030?
    • 2.What measures does the Commission plan to propose to ensure there is sufficient demand in 2030 and beyond, and if total demand for storage falls short of 50 Mt, is it willing to propose solutions to address the lack of a sound business case for entities obliged to ensure the supply of storage capacity?
    • 3.How does the Commission plan to integrate European Economic Area projects into the Net Zero Industry Act target and the broader Industrial Carbon Management Strategy[4]?

    Submitted: 2.7.2025

    • [1] Net Zero Industry Act (Regulation (EU) 2024/1735, consolidated version), Article 20, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A02024R1735-20240628.
    • [2] Commission Communication on Industrial Carbon Management (COM/2024/62), p.12, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:52024DC0062.
    • [3] EU-wide assessment of the final updated national energy and climate plans (COM (2025) 274), p.6, https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/97168210-2a5c-4d1a-9ed8-6a063e011537_en?filename=COM_2025_274_1_EN_ACT_part1_v6.pdf.
    • [4] Towards an ambitious Industrial Carbon Management for the EU, COM(2024) 62, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=COM:2024:62:FIN.
    Last updated: 10 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 10, 2025

  • Army emerges as lifeline for flood-hit villages in Himachal Pradesh

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In the mist-laden hills of Himachal Pradesh, where breathtaking landscapes have turned into scenes of devastation, the Indian Army has emerged as a vital support system for flood-affected villages grappling with nature’s fury.

    Relentless rain and floods have battered Mandi district, severely impacting remote villages such as Thunag, Degi, Rushad and Chapad. With roads blocked, communication lines disrupted and entire communities cut off, the Army’s relief columns have become a lifeline for hundreds of stranded families.

    Since July 6, Indian Army personnel have been working round the clock alongside the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local authorities. Despite patchy mobile coverage in the hilly terrain, the soldiers have maintained close coordination with the civil administration to deliver urgent assistance where it is needed most.

    Army medics have set up makeshift camps near damaged homes, providing essential medical care and distributing ration kits to affected families. Relief material has already reached isolated villages, with aid supplies delivered to Degi on July 7, Rushad on July 8 and Chapad on July 9.

    To ensure continuous operational connectivity in areas where mobile signals are weak or unavailable, satellite communications through ISAT phones and other advanced systems have been deployed.

    Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu is expected to visit Thunag soon to review the ongoing relief work, while the Brigade Commander is in Mandi to oversee operations and coordinate further support. A meeting with the Chief Minister and Deputy Commissioner of Mandi is also planned to streamline response efforts.

    -IANS

    July 10, 2025

  • MoS Harsh Malhotra inaugurates India Energy Storage Week 2025, highlights roadmap for electric mobility

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Minister of State for Road Transport & Highways and Corporate Affairs, Harsh Malhotra, on Thursday inaugurated a session on India’s Roadmap for Vehicle Electrification at India Energy Storage Week 2025, held at Yashobhoomi, Delhi.

    In his address, the Minister reiterated Modi Government’s strong commitment to green mobility and the development of a robust electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing ecosystem. He cited the PM E-Drive and FAME-II schemes as crucial initiatives driving this transition.

    Malhotra emphasized that India’s journey towards clean mobility is not just a technological shift but a national imperative to meet climate targets, boost economic resilience, and ensure energy security. He noted that as the fastest-growing major economy, India is well on track with its sustainable mobility goals.

    Highlighting supportive policies like EV retrofitting regulations and toll tax exemptions, he said these measures aim to make electric transportation more accessible and affordable.

    The Minister also spoke about the Multi-Modal Logistics Parks being developed by the Ministry, which now include green energy infrastructure and EV-friendly facilities, contributing to reduced logistics costs, lower emissions, and positioning India as a clean and connected transport hub.

    He reaffirmed the government’s target to generate 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030, calling on stakeholders to help build a future that is electric, inclusive, safe, and environmentally responsible.

    Stressing the importance of battery technologies suited to India’s unique climate and transport needs, Malhotra urged the industry to invest in R&D, promote local manufacturing, and adopt circular solutions such as battery recycling and reuse.

    Concluding his remarks, the Minister said that the industrial and business growth witnessed in the past 11 years is now being directed towards achieving India’s Net Zero target by 2070, which remains a pivotal focus of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision.

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FS completes visit to Seoul, Korea

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, continued his visit to Seoul, today (July 10). He visited NAVER, a leading Korean innovation and technology (I&T) enterprise engaged in diverse fields such as electronic payments, e-commerce, fintech, information technology, cloud services, AI and robotics. Mr Chan was briefed by the company’s management and research and development (R&D) heads on its development journey, technological innovations, application scenarios and future business directions. He also had in-depth exchanges with them, and watched a demonstration of NAVER’s AI and robotics applications.

         Mr Chan noted that Hong Kong is also making great strides in developing its AI sector and is actively enhancing the related infrastructure. Institutions such as the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks and Cyberport are working to build a more vibrant I&T ecosystem. Under the “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong, being an international financial centre, offers a comprehensive range of fundraising options and a robust legal system that safeguards data and intellectual property rights. He welcomed NAVER to collaborate with Hong Kong partners of relevant fields in R&D and business development, and to leverage Hong Kong as a fundraising platform to support its international expansion.

         Mr Chan also visited Seoul’s Digital Media City today. The Digital Media City is home to numerous companies in areas such as digital media, film and entertainment, gaming and animation, and information technology. It is a project led by the Seoul Metropolitan Government. Mr Chan met with the management team to learn more about the project’s development history and future plans, and visited an exhibition showcasing how extended reality technology is being used to support urban development.

         In addition, Mr Chan paid a courtesy call on the Chinese Ambassador to the Republic of Korea, Mr Dai Bing. He briefed the Ambassador on the latest social and economic developments in Hong Kong, as well as recent trends in Hong Kong-Korea economic and trade relations. The two also exchanged views on the global geopolitical and economic landscape, regional trade co-operation and the development of China-Korea relations.

         Mr Chan completed his visit to Seoul today and will depart for Hong Kong in the evening.

                              

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Classes of PM schools are suspended

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Due to inclement weather, classes of all PM schools are suspended this afternoon (July 10). AM and whole-day schools which are in session should continue until the end of school hours. They should ensure that conditions are safe before allowing students to return home.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Development Office organises seminar on Creating Business Value through Intellectual Property in GBA in Guangzhou (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         To actively support Hong Kong and Mainland enterprises to generate benefits in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) and global markets through effective protection and use of intellectual property (IP) rights, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Development Office organised a seminar on Creating Business Value through Intellectual Property in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area in Guangzhou today (July 10). The seminar was attended by over 250 business representatives from Hong Kong and a number of Mainland cities.
     
         In her opening remarks, the Commissioner for the Development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Ms Maisie Chan, said that the Outline Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area states that to fully leverage the advantages of Hong Kong in IP protection and related professional services, and support the development of Hong Kong as a regional IP trading centre, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government has rolled out a series of policies, including the Research, Academic and Industry Sectors One-plus Scheme, to promote the transformation and commercialisation of research and development outcomes, the introduction of the “patent box” tax incentive to alleviate the tax burden on enterprises and the expansion of the original grant patent system to cover frontier fields such as AI. The HKSAR Government also promotes the creation and trading of creative IP through the CreateSmart Initiative, as well as capitalising on Hong Kong’s unique advantage of being connected to the Mainland and the world to establish Asia’s first cross-border IP licensing platform, the Asia IP Exchange portal, which facilitates efficient trading of cultural and creative IP in the international markets.
     
         Today’s seminar featured keynote speeches by three distinguished experts, who introduced the IP systems in Hong Kong and the Mainland from a practical perspective, as well as the support provided by the IP professional services sector in Hong Kong to enterprises exploring global markets. The seminar also arranged two roundtable discussions with six corporate IP executives who shared their strategies and successful experiences in transforming various forms of IP into commercial value.
     
         After the seminar, Ms Chan remarked that today’s event attracted a large number of participants and fostered lively discussions, fully reflecting the industry’s strong enthusiasm for the effective use of IP rights to generate economic benefits and foster the development of the national and international dual circulation economy. Hong Kong will continue to strengthen its function as a regional IP trading centre and contribute to the high-quality development of the GBA.

            

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by SJ at Hong Kong legal services seminar in Paris, France (English only) (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         Following is the keynote speech by the Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, at the “Paris Seminar: Hong Kong Legal Services – Gateway to China and Beyond” organised by the Department of Justice in Paris, France on July 9 (Paris time):
     
    His Excellency Mr Deng Li (Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the French Republic), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
    Good afternoon. Firstly, on behalf of the Department of Justice, I would like to welcome all of you joining our seminar this afternoon. I have to express my gratitude to Mr Deng Li for giving the very important opening remarks, and for helping the Department of Justice in organising this very important seminar. Second, I also wish to express my gratitude to all the supporting organisations, which include the legal professional bodies in Hong Kong, the important arbitration institutions, and leading law firms. This is in fact my first official visit to this part of the world, including France, and I think this is also the first occasion that the Department of Justice organised a seminar focusing on the legal services of Hong Kong. I’m very pleased and honoured to be able to invite very eminent speakers from both Hong Kong and France to share their experience with you in a minute. There will be two panel discussions this afternoon. I would also like to take the opportunity to thank all the speakers.
     
    What I intend to do is just to set the scene and give an overview of the theme of today’s seminar. The topic for today is Hong Kong’s legal services. There is only one important message that I wish to convey successfully at the end of today, that is Hong Kong’s common law system serves as a unique gateway to China and beyond.
     
    Why Hong Kong is a unique gateway? The short answer is that under the very important principle of “one country, two systems”, on the one hand, Hong Kong’s common law system has a number of very essential elements which are crucial and important to the business community. But at the same time, precisely because Hong Kong is a part of China, we also have very unique and important connection with the Mainland’s legal system, which is unparalleled. So this is the short answer. But to make good my point, I would like to focus on, in my belief, six very important characteristics of Hong Kong’s common law system.
     
    My first point is that Hong Kong’s common law system is very stable. Hong Kong is the only common law jurisdiction within China and the continuation of the practice of common law system is guaranteed by the Basic Law, which is a constitutional document. So this is something that is not going to change. I also wish to use a very recent example to demonstrate the confidence that both China and the international community has in Hong Kong. On May 30, 2025, the convention concerning the establishment of the International Organization for Mediation was signed in Hong Kong. It was signed by 33 countries around the world including China and many countries in Southeast Asia, Africa, Latin America and even in Europe. I think the population of all these countries added together, cost you about one third of this world’s population.
     
    The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Wang Yi, came to Hong Kong and gave a very important speech. He explained why the party decided to hold the signing ceremony in Hong Kong, and more importantly, to set up the headquarters of the International Organization for Mediation in Hong Kong. The reason is that, because of “one country, two systems”, Hong Kong has the best of both worlds. On the one hand, we have a very strong common law tradition. But on the other hand, the People’s Republic of China is a civil law system. So we are a common law system in the context of a civil law system. That gives us a unique strength which makes it the perfect place to host the headquarters of the International Organization for Mediation. This is my first point – Hong Kong’s common law system is very, very stable.
     
    The second point is that Hong Kong’s common law system is very user-friendly. Hong Kong is in fact the only bilingual common law system in the world, using both English and Chinese. So all our statutes will be written in both languages. And of course, English is the language for the international business community. But apart from language, we have been working very hard to ensure that our legislation and   common law will meet the demand of the changing needs of the international community, or make it even more attractive. I wish to cite one recent example. In mid-May this year, we have just amended our company law to make it easier for companies being operated overseas to re-domicile to Hong Kong, so that these overseas companies can take advantage of the tax policy and regulatory regime in Hong Kong. And I understand that two major insurance companies have indicated that they will re-domicile to Hong Kong in November this year.
     
    My third point is that Hong Kong’s common law system provides a very safe and secure environment. Under the Basic Law, free flow of capital is guaranteed, free movement of properties including money in all forms of property is guaranteed. For as long as your investment, your money, your property, your business in Hong Kong, they are well protected by a very sophisticated regulatory regime administered by bodies such the Securities and Futures Commission, our Independent Commission Against Corruption and so on and so forth. One of the good reputation that Hong Kong enjoys is that corruption or malpractice is almost absent. So there’s no concern of corruption and other sort of malpractice. At the same time, we also make tremendous effort in ensuring that people can explore new opportunities in the safe environment. The recent example is the Stablecoins Ordinance. The Stablecoins Ordinance was enacted and will come into effect on August 1. Under this new ordinance, there will be a licensing regime for people or for traders in stablecoins. So we will allow trading and use of stablecoins subject to a very strict set of regulation to ensure that people will not be exposed to unnecessary risks. So this is my third point – Hong Kong’s common law system provides a very safe and secure environment.
     
    The fourth point is that Hong Kong’s common law system is extremely credible. One of the key reasons is that Hong Kong has a very independent and reputable judiciary. Our courts enjoy the final power of adjudication. And one special feature is that in our Court of Final Appeal, we have invited eminent judges from other common law jurisdictions to sit on a part-time basis. So at the moment, there are six foreign non-permanent judges. Two come from England, they are Lord Hoffmann and Lord Neuberger, three from Australia and one from New Zealand. The most recent appointment was made and confirmed in June, Sir William Young, who used to be a judge of the Supreme Court of New Zealand. Apart from Court of Final Appeal, we also invite judges from other common law jurisdictions to sit in our Court of First Instance.
     
    But litigation is not the only means of resolving disputes. Hong Kong is also very famous for its international arbitration service. In the very recent Queen Mary University of London’s survey, which is the most important international survey on arbitration, Hong Kong ranked second in the world after London, Hong Kong and Singapore both ranked the second. The important thing that’s worth noting is that among the cases handled by the most important institution, the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC), almost 70 per cent of those cases are international in nature in the sense that either one of the parties would be a party not from Hong Kong. Even more importantly, around 15 per cent of cases handled by the HKIAC, in those cases, neither party came from Asia. So the only reason that they chose Hong Kong is, of course, because they’re confident in our arbitration service. This is my fourth point – Hong Kong’s system is very credible.
     
    My fifth point is that Hong Kong has an abundant supply of high-quality legal professionals with rich experience in handling cross-boundary or transboundary matters. Hong Kong’s legal profession is divided into two branches based on the English system. We have around 1 700 barristers who are specialists in dispute resolution. They will be engaged and instructed to appear in court in litigation and very often in arbitration. There are around 110 Senior Counsel, which will be equivalent to King’s Counsel in England. And on top of that, we adopt a very open policy. So on some cases, we will allow London Silk, a Senior Counsel, a King’s Counsel from London to take part in litigations in Hong Kong.
     
    Turning to another branch of the legal profession, the solicitors, I think there are more than 11 000 solicitors in Hong Kong, more than 900 law firms, and almost 400 of these law firms would either have offices outside Hong Kong or representative offices in Mainland China. And insofar as France is concerned, I think there are around 14 law firms in Hong Kong which have offices in France and there are also five French law firms having office in Hong Kong. So France does have a significant presence in Hong Kong. And also we have offices, lawyers practicing here in Paris. The point that I wish to make is that the legal service provided in Hong Kong is very international, so if you instruct a Hong Kong lawyer, you are not simply receiving Hong Kong legal service, you are receiving global legal service, so this is my fifth point.
     
    The last point is the very special and unique connection between the Hong Kong’s common law system and the Mainland’s civil law system. I wish to use a few examples. Up to the present, Hong Kong and the Mainland have signed nine very important mutual legal assistance arrangements. And the most often used arrangement concerns the recognition and enforcement of arbitration awards. So an arbitration award in Hong Kong can be easily enforced and recognised on the Mainland under the scheme substantially the same as that under the New York Convention. And more importantly, back in 2019, Hong Kong and Mainland China have entered into a very special arrangement, under which for arbitrations administered by specific arbitration institution in Hong Kong, the parties will be at liberty to appear or to apply before the Mainland Court for interim measures. For example, interim injunctions preserving assets or evidence that turn out to be an extremely important practical tool. So ever since the scheme came into effect on October 1, 2019, up to May this year, there were around 146 applications and the amount involved in these interim injunctions will be in the region of about US$5 billion. That’s a piece of evidence demonstrating the practical utility of this measure.
     
    My last example concerns a very recent measure introduced in February this year. It concerns the Greater Bay Area, which consists of Hong Kong, Macau, and also nine important cities in the Guangdong Province. The size of the Greater Bay Area is more like Croatia, and the population is around 86 million. And the GDP of the Greater Bay Area has already exceeded Australia, which would be the top 10 to consider as a single economic entity. So back in February, we introduced a new measure, which allows Hong Kong enterprises in certain cities in the Greater Bay Area to have the option of choosing Hong Kong law as the governing law to regulate their contracts, and also to choose Hong Kong as the seat for arbitration. Because in the past, if a foreign company or even a Hong Kong company set up an establishment on the Mainland, you have to use Mainland law. And for arbitration, you can only do the arbitration on the Mainland, so the options that I’ve just mentioned were not open. The other important point is that, insofar on the definition of Hong Kong enterprise is concerned, it doesn’t matter the percentage of interest owned by the Hong Kong party. For example, it’s very easy for a French company to come to Hong Kong to find a partner, a Hong Kong partner, which may hold a very small interest, say one per cent. So as long as there’s some common interest, it will be qualified as a Hong Kong enterprise, and that will give you the liberty to choose Hong Kong law or to use Hong Kong as a place of arbitration, so this is my sixth point.
     
    To sum up, Hong Kong’s common law system is stable, it’s very user-friendly, it’s very safe and secure, it’s very credible, and we have an abundant supply of international legal professionals. And lastly, we have very unique connection with the Mainland system. And my dear friends, it’s really the combination, it’s really the sum total of these six elements, which in my view, render Hong Kong a unique gateway. Hong Kong is definitely not the only gateway, but I’m very confident to say that because of the matters that I mentioned, Hong Kong as a gateway is unique. It’s unparalleled. It’s something that you cannot find elsewhere.
     
    President Xi Jinping said that the rule of law provides the best business environment (法治是最好的營商環境). I think Hong Kong offers the best business environment because we have a very strong rule of law based on a common law system, which has all the unique characteristics that I said. I think Hong Kong’s reputation is very recognised internationally. According to a survey done by the IMD, the International Institute for Management Development based in Switzerland very recently, in terms of global competitiveness, Hong Kong ranked the third. Hong Kong actually ranked the second in terms of government efficiency and business efficiency. When it comes to our tax policy and business legislation, Hong Kong actually ranked the first. I think this is a very objective assessment of the reputation enjoyed by Hong Kong.
     
    Ladies and gentlemen, I’m sure that you will be more convinced by what I have just said after hearing from our very eminent speakers who will share their experience in handling legal matters or in relation to China, Hong Kong and also France in the next two hours or so. Now, to conclude, I would like to thank all of you again for joining this legal seminar, and I sincerely hope that you will find today’s seminar constructive and enjoyable. Thank you very much.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government posts fourth batch of land resumption notices for Second Phase development of Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Lands Department (LandsD) today (July 10) posted the fourth batch of land resumption notices in accordance with section 4 of the Lands Resumption Ordinance (Chapter 124) for the Second Phase development of Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area (HSK/HT NDA) to resume 37 private lots with a total area of about 27 600 square metres.
     
    The 37 private lots to be resumed this time mainly involve the conclusion of an in-situ land exchange application that requires the acquisition of a small amount of third-party land by the Government for comprehensive development by the land exchange applicant, and the remaining sites without any in-situ land exchange application.
     
    The above 37 private lots will be reverted to the Government upon the expiry of a period of three months from the date of affixing the notices (i.e. October 11, 2025). The Government will release the ex-gratia land compensation to the relevant land owners after land reversion.
     
    The land reversion date is the date of vesting of the ownership of the land in the Government. It is not the departure deadline of the affected households and business undertakings. Three months before the departure deadline of the affected households and business undertakings, the LandsD will post notices in the relevant areas. It is now estimated that the affected households and business undertakings will have to move out in January, 2026 at the earliest. The LandsD is handling the compensation and rehousing matters of the affected persons at full steam, and will endeavour to arrange rehousing for, or release compensation to, eligible persons before the departure deadline. The LandsD and its appointed Community Liaison Service Team will maintain communication with the affected households and business undertakings, and provide them with updated information.
     
    The first three batches of land resumption notices, involving about 196 hectares of land in total for the Second Phase development of HSK/HT NDA, were posted on May 30 and September 19, 2024, and May 8, 2025, respectively. The land under the first two batches of notices had already been reverted to the Government and is gradually being handed over to the Civil Engineering and Development Department for site formation and engineering infrastructure works. The land under the third batch of land resumption notices will be reverted to the Government on August 9, 2025.
     
    Upon full development, the HSK/HT NDA will provide about 66 700 additional housing units capable of accommodating a population of about 184 000, and create about 150 000 job opportunities.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SJ attends DoJ seminar to promote Hong Kong legal services in Paris (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, arrived in Paris, France, on July 8 (Paris time) to continue his European visit. He attended a Hong Kong legal services seminar organised by the Department of Justice (DoJ) and met with representatives of international organisations to introduce Hong Kong’s advantages in legal services and its arbitration system.
     
    In Paris, Mr Lam first met with the President of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), Ms Elisa de Anda Madrazo. Noting that the FATF leads global action to tackle money laundering and terrorist financing, Mr Lam said that Hong Kong, as an international financial centre, has always supported the FATF’s work in maintaining the stability of the international financial system, and that the DoJ has actively participated in mutual evaluations among FATF member jurisdictions.
     
    Afterwards, Mr Lam visited the Paris Maritime Arbitration Chamber (Chambre arbitrale maritime de Paris) and met with the Secretary General of the Paris Maritime Arbitration Chamber, Mrs Pascale Mesnil, to learn about its operation and the situation in the French arbitration sector, as well as developments in resolving international maritime disputes through arbitration. Mr Lam said that Hong Kong has been committed to optimising its arbitration system through multi-pronged policy measures, enhancing and consolidating its status as an international legal and dispute resolution services centre in the Asia-Pacific region. Mr Lam also expressed hope for deepening exchanges and co-operation with the French arbitration sector.
     
    On the morning of July 9 (Paris time), Mr Lam visited the office of the French National and Olympic Sports Committee (CNOSF) and met with representatives of the Chamber of Arbitration for Sport (Chambre Arbitrale du Sport) and the Conference of Conciliators of the CNOSF to learn about the committee’s services in sports arbitration and conciliation, and he introduced the DoJ’s work in promoting the development of sports dispute resolution in Hong Kong.
     
    At noon, Mr Lam attended a luncheon hosted by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the French Republic, Mr Deng Li, and briefed him on Hong Kong’s efforts in safeguarding national security, ensuring the implementation of the principle of “one country, two systems” by rule of law, and leveraging its unique advantages to promote development in various aspects.
     
    In the afternoon, Mr Lam attended the Paris Seminar entitled “Hong Kong Legal Services – Gateway to China and Beyond”, which was organised by the DoJ, sharing with about 130 guests and participants the unique advantages of Hong Kong’s legal services under the principle of “one country, two systems” with guests. In his keynote speech, Mr Lam said that Hong Kong is the only common law jurisdiction in China and the only jurisdiction in the world with a bilingual common law system in both Chinese and English. As an international legal and dispute resolution service centre, Hong Kong’s common law system is rigorous and mature, belonging to the same legal system as the world’s major economies and in line with international trade and business rules. Hong Kong’s legal services industry is professional and comprehensive, providing high-quality legal services to global financial and commercial activities. Two panel sessions were held afterwards to discuss the co-operation between Hong Kong and France in commercial law, as well as the latest developments in the mechanism of arbitration and alternative dispute resolution.
     
    During the Paris Seminar, Mr Lam also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the eBRAM International Online Dispute Resolution Centre and Jus Mundi, an AI-powered legal research platform based in Paris, to further enhance co-operation in legal and alternative dispute resolution between the two places.
     
    Mr Lam will depart for Rome, Italy, today (July 10, Paris time) to continue his visit programme.

                                    

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Results of monthly survey on business situation of small and medium-sized enterprises for June 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Census and Statistics Department (C&SD) released today (July 10) the results of the Monthly Survey on Business Situation of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) for June 2025.
     
    The current diffusion index (DI) on business receipts amongst SMEs decreased from 42.1 in May 2025 in the contractionary zone to 41.6 in June 2025, whereas the one-month’s ahead (i.e. July 2025) outlook DI on business receipts was 45.4. Analysed by sector, the current DIs on business receipts for many surveyed sectors dropped in June 2025 as compared with previous month, particularly for the business services (from 45.2 to 43.5) and retail trade (from 41.3 to 39.8).
      
    The current DI on new orders for the import and export trades increased from 44.0 in May 2025 to 45.0 in June 2025, whereas the outlook DI on new orders in one month’s time (i.e. July 2025) was 47.6.
     
    Commentary

    A Government spokesman said that overall business sentiment among SMEs weakened slightly in June. The overall employment situation also softened somewhat. Nonetheless, expectations on the business situation in one month’s time remained stable.
     
    Looking ahead, the ongoing uncertainty in trade policies in the external environment would continue to affect business sentiment. Nonetheless, the resilient local economy and sustained steady growth in the Mainland economy should provide support. The Government will continue to monitor the situation closely.
     
    Further information
     
    The Monthly Survey on Business Situation of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises aims to provide a quick reference, with minimum time lag, for assessing the short-term business situation faced by SMEs. SMEs covered in this survey refer to establishments with fewer than 50 persons engaged. Respondents were asked to exclude seasonal fluctuations in reporting their views. Based on the views collected from the survey, a set of diffusion indices (including current and outlook diffusion indices) is compiled. A reading above 50 indicates that the business condition is generally favourable, whereas that below 50 indicates otherwise. As for statistics on the business prospects of prominent establishments in Hong Kong, users may refer to the publication entitled “Report on Quarterly Business Tendency Survey” released by the C&SD.
     
    The results of the survey should be interpreted with care. The survey solicits feedback from a panel sample of about 600 SMEs each month and the survey findings are thus subject to sample size constraint. Views collected from the survey refer only to those of respondents on their own establishments rather than those on the respective sectors they are engaged in. Besides, in this type of opinion survey on expected business situation, the views collected in the survey are affected by the events in the community occurring around the time of enumeration, and it is difficult to establish precisely the extent to which respondents’ perception of the business situation accords with the underlying trends. For this survey, main bulk of the data were collected around the last week of the reference month.
     
    More detailed statistics are given in the “Report on Monthly Survey on the Business Situation of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises”. Users can browse and download the publication at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1080015&scode=300).
     
    Users who have enquiries about the survey results may contact Industrial Production Statistics Section of the C&SD (Tel: 3903 7246; email: sme-survey@censtatd.gov.hk).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Research Grants Council announces funding results of Areas of Excellence Scheme and Theme-based Research Scheme 2025/26

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The following is issued on behalf of the University Grants Committee:
     
         The Research Grants Council (RGC) announced today (July 10) the funding results of the Areas of Excellence (AoE) Scheme 2025/26 (Thirteenth Round) and the Theme-based Research Scheme (TRS) 2025/26 (Fifteenth Round). This round saw a significant increase in the number of applications for the two Schemes. Altogether, nine outstanding projects with academic and strategic importance for Hong Kong have received a total amount of around $464 million in funding support from the RGC.
     
         Three research proposals are awarded RGC funding under the AoE Scheme, of which two meritorious projects are provided with a five-year budget totalling around $134 million. Another potentially groundbreaking project is provided with a one-year exploratory funding of $10 million for yielding preliminary results. As for the TRS, six research proposals are funded at a total of $320 million. The lists of the awarded projects are set out in Annexes I and II.
     
         The Chairman of the RGC, Professor Timothy W. Tong, said, “I am delighted to announce that the 2025/26 exercise of the two schemes was completed with great success. It is encouraging to see the significant increase in the number of AoE Scheme and TRS applications by 107 per cent and 36 per cent respectively this year, bearing testimony to the robustness of the Hong Kong research community. After rigorous peer reviews based on academic and scientific merits, the RGC is pleased to support two outstanding projects in the areas of plant biotechnology and quantum materials, and an exploratory project on early childhood development under the AoE Scheme. I would like to congratulate the three project teams for successfully securing the funding support to develop their cutting-edge research into areas of excellence.
     
         “Under the TRS, the RGC decided to fund six projects which are of strategic importance to Hong Kong’s long-term development. These projects cover a wide range of research areas highly relevant to our daily lives, including Alzheimer’s disease, adolescents’ mental health, eco-friendly disinfectants, chemical weather observations, collaborative generative AI and electronic design automation. I have full confidence that these projects will help bring about lasting societal impacts and make breakthroughs in scientific and technological applications.
     
         “The RGC endeavours to enhance the capacity and vibrancy of our research ecosystem through administering various collaborative research funding schemes. Through the annual AoE Scheme and the TRS, the RGC has been supporting universities in leveraging their strengths to pursue excellent and impactful research, thereby solidifying Hong Kong’s position as a global leader in higher education and innovation.”
     
         Professor Tong expressed his gratitude to the panel experts for their valuable contribution to the assessment process, as well as local researchers for their continued support for the AoE Scheme, the TRS and the RGC’s work.
     
         Details of the approved projects for the 2025/26 exercise are available on the RGC website (AoE Scheme: www.ugc.edu.hk/eng/rgc/funding_opport/aoe/funded_research/aoe13.html and TRS: www.ugc.edu.hk/eng/rgc/funding_opport/trs/funded_research/trs15.html) for reference. A call for proposals for the AoE Scheme and the TRS 2026/27 will be issued later this month.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Digital Policy Office wins Outstanding Gold Award in Privacy-Friendly Awards 2025 (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         The Digital Policy Office (DPO) has won the Outstanding Gold Award in the Privacy-Friendly Awards 2025 organised by the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data, Hong Kong. This prestigious recognition fully affirms the DPO’s outstanding achievements in personal data privacy protection and safeguarding data security.

         Attending the award presentation ceremony today (July 10), the Commissioner for Digital Policy, Mr Tony Wong, said, “While the DPO has always strictly complied with the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance, it also actively promotes and optimises data governance policies and measures, ensures personal data privacy and at the same time facilitates data interchanges to deliver more innovative and user-friendly digital government services. This award is a professional recognition of the team’s efforts in balancing digital development and privacy protection.” Mr Wong expressed his gratitude to the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data and the judging committee of the Awards for their acknowledgement.

         The theme of this year’s Awards was “Safeguarding Data Security: Marching towards a New Digital Era”, which aimed to recognise the efforts and commitment of enterprises, public and private organisations as well as government departments in the protection of personal data privacy. The event also served to encourage organisations to strengthen data governance and enhance their awareness of personal data privacy and data security. Awardees were evaluated against five specified privacy protection measures, which were the key assessment criteria.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HAD’s Emergency Co-ordination Centre in operation (2)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Attention duty announcers, radio and TV stations:
     
    Please broadcast the following as soon as possible and repeat it at suitable intervals:
     
         As the Red Rainstorm Warning Signal has been issued, the Home Affairs Department’s Emergency Co-ordination Centre is now in operation.
     
         The Home Affairs Department will open temporary shelters for people in need of temporary accommodation.
     
         For details, please contact the centre on 2572 8427.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Care centres and services units remain open (2)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Attention duty announcers, radio and TV stations:

    Please broadcast the following special announcement immediately, and repeat it at frequent intervals:

         The Social Welfare Department announces that while the Red Rainstorm Warning Signal has been issued, all units providing child care centre services, services under the Neighbourhood Support Child Care Project, and after school care programmes for pre-primary or primary school children, elderly services centres, day pre-school rehabilitation services units and day rehabilitation units including sheltered workshops, integrated vocational rehabilitation services centres, integrated vocational training centres and day activity centres will remain open during their normal operating hours. If necessary, members of the public can contact the centres or services units to make arrangements for the safe return home of their children and family members.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Secretary for Health to depart for Nanjing tomorrow

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, will depart for Nanjing tomorrow (July 11) to meet with health officials of Jiangsu Province and introduce them to the latest developments of various healthcare policies in Hong Kong as well as attend the 13th Nanjing Academic Symposium on Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, with a view to deepening exchanges and collaboration on healthcare-related areas with the Mainland.

    During his visit to Nanjing, Professor Lo will also visit local pharmaceutical companies and hospitals to introduce the latest progress in enhancing Hong Kong’s drug approval mechanism and registration regime, and share the city’s experiences in strengthening hospital management and services respectively.

    Accompanying Professor Lo on the visit are the Assistant Director of Health (Drug), Mr Frank Chan; the Director (Quality and Safety) of the Hospital Authority (HA), Dr Michael Wong; and the Cluster Chief Executive of Hong Kong West Cluster of the HA, Dr Theresa Li.

    Professor Lo will return to Hong Kong in the afternoon on July 12. During his absence, the Under Secretary for Health, Dr Libby Lee, will be the Acting Secretary for Health.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HAD’s Emergency Co-ordination Centre stood down

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Attention duty announcers, radio and TV stations:

    Please broadcast the following as soon as possible and repeat it at suitable intervals:

         As the Red Rainstorm Warning Signal has been cancelled, the Home Affairs Department’s Emergency Co-ordination Centre and the emergency hotline 2572 8427 have ceased to operate.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: EMSD announces test results of LPG quality in June 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) today (July 10) announced that the department collected 10 liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) samples from auto-LPG filling stations and LPG terminals on a random basis in June 2025 for laboratory tests. The results show that the LPG quality of all these samples complied with auto-LPG specifications.
     
    The detailed test results are available on the EMSD’s website (www.emsd.gov.hk/en/gas_safety/lpg_vehicle_scheme/publications/general/results_of_lpg_sample_analysis/index.html). Enquiries can also be made to the EMSD’s hotline on 2333 3762.
     
    In addition, the EMSD has been vetting independent third-party test reports submitted by LPG supply companies for each shipment to ensure that the quality of imported LPG complies with the specified requirements.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Guidance Note on Managing the Financial Risks of Climate Change and Nature Loss

    Source: Isle of Man

    Published on: 10 July 2025

    The Isle of Man Financial Services Authority has published guidance to raise awareness within the regulated sector of climate and nature loss risks and provide further clarity around the expectations of the Authority in respect of these risks.

    This represents a significant first step in the Authority’s work  to support the ambitions highlighted in the Isle of Man Sustainable Finance Roadmap. This initiative aims to facilitate the Isle of Man creating an environment where sustainable finance can thrive, benefitting our community and economy alike.

    The Authority’s workstreams are focussed on creating a platform that enables firms to develop products and services, with a view to fostering the growth of sustainable finance as part of a well-regulated international business centre.

    This guidance note is applicable to entities regulated under the Financial Services Act 2008, the Insurance Act 2008 and the Collective Investment Scheme Act 2008. It aims to give a high-level understanding of how climate and nature loss risks can create financial and other risks, as well as the expectations that the Authority has of firms that identify a material risk. The document focusses on how these risk management expectations sit within the existing regulatory frameworks, with no new requirements for firms. Another key focus area within the document is that of proportionality and materiality. The majority of the guidance is applicable only for business that have identified a material climate or nature risk as part of their risk assessment processes.

    Outreach by Finance Isle of Man has yielded positive feedback around the opportunities set out in the Isle of Man Sustainable Finance Initiative to enable growth for businesses, educate staff, attract talent and businesses to the Island and help the Isle of Man achieve  its wider goals for growth and sustainability. The Authority remains committed to driving forward an important project for our Island’s future.

    Media Enquiries:

    Adam Creamore, Sustainable Finance & ESG Adviser, email: Adam.Creamore@iomfsa.im

     

    For further information:

    PO BOX 58      DOUGLAS        ISLE OF MAN              IM99 1DT        BRITISH ISLES

     Twitter              LinkedIn             Facebook                       YouTube

    T: +44 (0) 1624 646000           E: info@iomfsa.im

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Expert panel to put science and tech at the heart of clean power

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Expert panel to put science and tech at the heart of clean power

    A new Science and Technology Advisory Council has been set up, to provide expert advice.

    Science and evidence-informed policy will be at the heart of the government’s clean power mission and acceleration to net zero.  

    A group of prestigious scientific leaders has been appointed to the Science and Technology Advisory Council, which met for the first time yesterday (Wednesday 9 July).  

    The Council will provide robust, scientific, evidence-based information to support key decisions as we overhaul our energy system to reach clean power by 2030. 

    It will also offer independent viewpoints and cutting-edge research on topics from climate science, energy networks and engineering, to the latest technologies and artificial intelligence. 

    Their expert advice will allow ministers to access the most up-to-date and well-informed scientific evidence, improving decision-making and effectiveness of policy implementation.  

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: 

    Evidence-based decision-making is fundamental to the drive for clean power and tackling the climate crisis, with informed policymaking the key to securing a better, fairer world for current and future generations. 

    To give our mission the very best chance of success, the Science and Technology Advisory Council will draw on the knowledge and wisdom of some of the finest scientific minds of the nation – because clean power offers a huge prize of energy security, lower bills and good jobs.

    DESNZ Director General Chief Scientific Adviser Paul Monks said: 

    Robust scientific research and evidence is vital to inform decisions, as we break new ground with the mission for clean power by 2030 and accelerate to net zero. 

    I look forward to working with some of the country’s most esteemed climate and energy scientists, engineers and mathematicians, to provide comprehensive and considered advice to government on some of the greatest challenges of our time.

    The team of 16 highly esteemed academic and industry experts will be co-chaired by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero’s Director General Chief Scientific Adviser, Paul Monks, and Professor David Greenwood, CEO of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult at Warwick Manufacturing Group.   

    The group will be commissioned for advice as required and will meet quarterly. They will assist the Energy Secretary and the wider department.  

    Science and Technology Advisory Council members

    • Professor Paul Monks CB, FRMetS, FRSC, FInstP – STAC Co-Chair and Chief Scientific Adviser & Director General, Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ)   
    • Professor David Greenwood FREng – STAC Co-Chair and CEO of Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG) High Value Manufacturing Catapult Centre  
    • Professor Julian Allwood FREng – Professor of Engineering and the Environment, University of Cambridge  
    • Professor Feargal Brennan – Professor of Offshore Engineering, University of Strathclyde  
    • Professor Richard Dawson CEng FICE FREng – Professor of Earth Systems Engineering, Newcastle University  
    • Professor Mercedes Maroto-Valer FRSE, FEI, FIChemE, FRSA, FRSC – Director, UK Industrial Decarbonisation Research and Innovation Centre (IDRIC) and Deputy Principal (Global Sustainability), Heriot-Watt University  
    • Professor Nicholas Pidgeon MBE FBA – Professor of Environmental Psychology and Risk, Cardiff University  
    • Dr Fiona Rayment OBE, FREng, FRSE – Government Advisor, Non-Executive Director and Visiting Professor at University of Manchester  
    • Professor Nilay Shah OBE FREng -Professor of Process Systems Engineering, Imperial College London  
    • Professor Emily Shuckburgh OBE – Director, Cambridge Zero  
    • Professor Benjamin Sovacool Ph.D. FAcSS, FRSA, MAE – Professor of Energy Policy, University of Sussex  
    • Dr Erica Thompson – Associate Professor of Modelling for Decision Making, University College London  
    • Professor Elizabeth Patricia Thornley BSc, DPhil, FREng – Professor of Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute, Aston University  
    • Professor Sara Walker SFHEA – Director of Birmingham Energy Institute 
    • Mr Jonathan Wood C. Eng FRSA – Vice President & Chief Technical Officer, Cummins Inc  
    • Dr David Wright FREng, FIET, MIGEM (Ex-Officio STAC Member) – Co-Chair Energy Research Partnership

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    Published 10 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    July 10, 2025

  • Lord’s Test: Archer, Bumrah return as England opt to bat first against India

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    England won the toss and will bat first in the third test against India at Lord’s on Thursday under sunny skies at the home of cricket and conditions that should favour the batsmen.

    India’s crushing 336-run victory in the second test at Edgbaston levelled the series at 1-1 after England won the first match at Headingley by five wickets.

    England recalled fast bowler Jofra Archer for his first test appearance in more than four years in place of Josh Tongue.

    India brought back paceman Jasprit Bumrah, the world’s top-ranked bowler who was rested for the second test as he manages a back injury, to replace Prasidh Krishna.

    England: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jamie Smith (wicketkeeper), Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Shoaib Bashir

    India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Karun Nair, Shubman Gill (captain), Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Nzimande places science and innovation at core of long-term sustainability

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Nzimande places science and innovation at core of long-term sustainability

    The Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, says South Africa must prioritise science, technology and innovation (STI) to achieve long-term sustainability.

    “We deliver this Budget Vote against the background of a complex set of national and global challenges, some of which include economic stagnation, rising social inequality, a breakdown of social cohesion, the negative impact of climate change, technological disruption and new tensions arising from changes in the international economic and political system,” said the Minister while tabling the department’s Budget Vote on Wednesday in Parliament.

    He committed to taking STI to the villages, townships, and all the corners of South Africa. 

    “We hold the view that our country must place science, technology, and innovation at the centre of government, education, industry, and society if we are to secure our sovereignty and future sustainability.” 

    Nzimande highlighted his department’s dedication to speeding up the transformation and growth of human resources and the research workforce in STI.

    The Minister stated that this commitment includes advancing the Presidential PhD Programme, which was launched in 2023.

    “We will scale up the implementation of the Innovation Fund programme. During this financial year, our target is to support between 10 and 15 venture capital funds through strategic partnerships with, among others, our entity, the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA).”

    He stressed that the development of critical scientific skills remains central to the department’s mandate.

    According to the department, 288 Research Chairs to 22 universities and national research facilities in various research disciplines have been awarded.

    “I am, however, deeply concerned that black researchers and historically disadvantaged institutions (HDIs) have not benefited from this initiative in the manner that we had anticipated,” the Minister said.

    To tackle this issue, his department is collaborating with the National Research Foundation (NRF) to establish Research Chairs aimed at addressing these and other deficits in transformation.

    “Further to this, our National System of Innovation (NSI) is still characterised by several other transformation deficits, including the low participation of women at the highest levels.”

    The department is also strengthening the coordination and direction of the NSI through the Inter-Ministerial Committee on STI, Presidential Plenary for STI, and policy coordination instruments.

    In March this year, South Africa hosted its first NSI Transformation Summit. 

    The Minister announced that under the leadership of the department’s Director-General, the resolutions of this summit are being incorporated into their strategic plan. 

    In addition, he has vowed continued support for Palestinian institutions and researchers, adding that this project is making steady progress.

    As part of South Africa’s G20 Presidency, the department is committed to advancing STI priorities for both the nation and the African continent.

    The department is also working tirelessly to increase the Gross Expenditure on Research and Development to 1.5%. 

    This includes establishing a strategic agreement among organised business, government, and labour to determine future funding.

    In addition, the department is focused on maintaining and upgrading crucial science infrastructure and projects, including the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRi), and the development of reliable pandemic preparedness capacity.

    Another priority is to build strategic innovation partnerships, which involves aligning the key focus areas of the STI Decadal Plan with the relevant line function departments and mobilising additional funding and resources. 
    He said significant programmes in areas such as artificial intelligence, energy security, space exploration, vaccine manufacturing, and indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) will be scaled up.

    Nzimande stressed that efforts are underway to raise public awareness about the important contributions of the NSI to human development, supported by a vigorous public engagement and communication campaign. – SAnews.gov.za

    Gabisile
    Thu, 07/10/2025 – 11:05

    MIL OSI Africa –

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: B-BBEE Commission, BMF establish framework for cooperation and information sharing

    Source: Government of South Africa

    B-BBEE Commission, BMF establish framework for cooperation and information sharing

    The B-BBEE Commission and the Black Management Forum (BMF) will today concretise their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

    The MoU is a culmination of years of close cooperation between the B-BBEE Commission and the BMF. 

    The MoU signing ceremony will coincide with a dialogue entitled, “Safeguarding B-BBEE amidst challenges in implementation” and will feature an expert panel who will explore the status of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) and the challenges that need to be resolved in order for it to achieve its objectives as per the B-BBEE Act. 

    President of the BMF, Mpho Motsei, said Black Economic Empowerment was conceived from grassroots movements of black business and professional associations, which included the BMF. 

    “It is therefore appropriate for BMF to play a part in the enhancement and safeguarding of the legislation that we helped to conceive, more than 30 years ago,” Motsei said. 

    “We are therefore delighted to work with the B-BBEE Commission, as a regulator that provides oversight on the implementation of the legislation that was designed to elevate black people from social and economic subjugation.

    “This event occurs at a time when B-BBEE and other transformation policies have been under attack both in the media and the public space. Views on B-BBEE remain divided and there continues to be a lack of understanding with regard to the crucial role B-BBEE plays in bringing about a society that is equitable and inclusive, as mandated by the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa,” he said. 

    The dialogue seeks to reframe the discussion on B-BBEE and transformation, by paying particular focus on building an inclusive economy through B-BBEE policy and legislation. 

    In doing so, the commission and BMF hope to re-ignite public discourse around the crucial issues of nation building, economic inclusion and compliance with the legislation, thereby safeguarding the objectives of B-BBEE policy. 

    The MoU will seek to establish a framework of cooperation and sharing of information and ideas, within the parameters of the B-BBEE legislation, specifically in the following areas: 

    • Strategies meant to promote economic transformation in the public interest; 

    • Sectoral dynamics which may hinder or promote the prospects of economic transformation;

    • Advocacy and awareness programmes on transformation and B-BBEE;

    • Developments related to the racial composition of ownership and management structures, as well as skill occupations in the private and public sectors of the economy; and 

    • and jointly monitor the effectiveness and gaps in the B-BBEE legislation, and any other policies related to economic transformation.

    The B-BBEE Commission and the BMF believe that the MoU will serve as a solid foundation from which to advance the transformation agenda. 

    Tshediso Matona, Commissioner of the B-BBEE Commission said the B-BBEE Commission considered the relationship with BMF a necessary step in strengthening ties with transformation advocates and practitioners in business, who are committed to realising the Constitutional provision of redress.

    “As the commission, we hold a firm view that the implementation of B-BBEE is a collective responsibility of all stakeholders in the economy and our collaboration with the BMF seeks to promote this view.

    “We look forward to a productive partnership with BMF and we are excited about what it will achieve,” Matona said. – SAnews.gov.za

    Edwin
    Thu, 07/10/2025 – 11:07

    MIL OSI Africa –

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Spaza Shop Support Awareness campaign moves to Beaufort West

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Spaza Shop Support Awareness campaign moves to Beaufort West

    In its continued efforts to uplift township and rural-based businesses, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), in collaboration with the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) is set to host a Spaza Shop Support Awareness Campaign in the Western Cape.

    Friday’s session is scheduled to take place at the KwaMandlenkosi Community Hall in the Beaufort West Local Municipality and is open to informal traders, spaza shop owners and micro-retailers operating in the area.

    This community-focused initiative follows the national launch of the R500 million Spaza Shop Support Fund in April 2025 by dtic Minister Parks Tau and DSBD Minister Stella Tembisa Ndabeni.

    The fund aims to help small retailers transition into the formal economy, access funding, and strengthen their businesses.

    Delivered in partnership with the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA) and the National Empowerment Fund (NEF), the campaign offers practical tools, guidance on compliance, and pathways for inclusion in formal supply chains.

    Attendees in Beaufort West will have the opportunity to engage directly with programme implementers, ask questions about the application process, and learn more about the business development resources available to them.

    According to the Minister Tau, the fund represents a concrete step by government to formalise and empower the informal sector. He said supporting spaza shops means enabling entrepreneurs, often women and young people, to participate fully in the economy.

    “These small businesses generate employment, drive local commerce, and channel much-needed income into communities that have long been underserved. Studies show that small businesses account for a significant portion of job creation in South Africa. 
    “By providing spaza shop owners with financial support, infrastructure upgrades, and essential business training, we are setting the stage for sustainable job creation,” the Minister explained.

    Meanwhile, Ndabeni said the role played by SEDFA and the NEF is deeply appreciated and that her department believes the fund will go a long way in assisting shop owners who are registered and hold valid operating permits.

    “Our partnership ensures that spaza shop owners are not only funded but also trained, mentored, and integrated into reliable supply chains. This is about building long-term sustainability for township retail,” Ndabeni said.

    Through initiatives like this, government aims to ensure that township and rural-based convenience shops are better equipped to thrive in a competitive market. – SAnews.gov.za

    Edwin
    Thu, 07/10/2025 – 11:27

    MIL OSI Africa –

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Rollout of military veterans’ pension to resume once review process completed

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Rollout of military veterans’ pension to resume once review process completed

    The Department of Military Veterans (DMV) has announced that the rollout of the military veterans’ pension will continue once a review process is completed. 

    This decision comes after approximately 300 military veterans expressed concerns about delays in receiving their pensions.

    “We acknowledge the hardship faced by military veterans and recognise their frustration. This benefit is a vital intervention aimed at restoring dignity and improving the quality of life of those who served this country with honour,” the statement read.

    However, the department emphasised the need to clarify that the delays were caused by the budgetary constraints that currently affect it.

    “It has become evident that the regulations governing the disbursement of the military veterans’ pension need to be reviewed. Once this process is complete, the department will resume the rollout of the military veterans’ pension, ensuring that deserving military veterans receive the financial assistance they are entitled to.” 

    Since the implementation of this benefit in November 2023, the department said over 4 378 military veterans have successfully received their military veterans’ pensions. 

    The department said it continues to work closely with the Government Pensions Administration Agency (GPAA) to process and pay new beneficiaries as they are verified.

    “In the future, we appeal to military veterans to engage directly with the GPAA to check on the status of their applications and to raise any challenges so that they can be addressed timeously. We remain committed to upholding the dignity of all military veterans.” 

    Last week, the Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans expressed concern at the ongoing challenges faced by military veterans, many of whom remain in limbo due to delays in receiving their service-related benefits. 

    The committee also expressed concerns regarding the DMV’s lack of a functioning internal audit unit, an essential tool for ensuring financial accountability and risk management.

    “The committee highlighted the need for urgent intervention by the executive to turn around the DMV, starting with the appointment of a permanent Director-General, re-evaluating the organisational structure, addressing the findings of the Auditor-General, and developing a more responsive department.” – SAnews.gov.za

    Gabisile
    Thu, 07/10/2025 – 11:47

    MIL OSI Africa –

    July 10, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Israel’s military says it intercepted a rocket fired from Yemen

    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 10 (Xinhua) — The Israeli army said it intercepted a rocket fired from Yemen toward Israel early Thursday morning, after air raid sirens went off in several areas including Tel Aviv.

    Israel’s national health service, Magen David Adom, said it had received no reports of casualties.

    The Houthis have not yet commented on this information.

    The missile was fired days after Israel launched massive airstrikes on Sunday against Houthi-controlled targets, including three Red Sea ports, a power plant and a ship.

    Israel has carried out a barrage of strikes on key ports and infrastructure in Yemen in recent months, while the Houthis continue to fire rockets into Israel, claiming to be acting in solidarity with Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    July 10, 2025
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