NewzIntel.com

Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Former attorney convicted of stealing RAF payouts

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Former attorney convicted of stealing RAF payouts

    A former attorney has been convicted on four counts of theft by the Mpumalanga Specialised Commercial Crimes Court after defrauding clients of their Road Accident Fund (RAF) claims.

    According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Mantladi Jo-Anne Mmela, committed the crimes when she was practising as a sole practitioner between June 2019 and March 2022.

    “The accused lodged claims against the Road Accident Fund on behalf of her clients, which were subsequently paid out. The money was paid by the Road Accident Fund into the trust account of Mmela Incorporated Attorneys for the benefit of her clients, totalling an amount of over R4.1 million.

    “The incident came to light after one of the victims reported that Mmela failed to pay her. An investigation ensued and led to the arrest of the accused in 2022,” the NPA said in a statement.

    Mmela was subsequently granted bail. However, after absconding, she was re-arrested and remained in custody.

    “During trial, the accused pleaded not guilty, and Senior State Advocate Henry Nxumalo presented evidence of the witnesses to prove the allegations levelled against her. The accused was convicted on four counts of theft, and the matter was postponed to 21 August 2025 for sentencing in the same court.

    “The National Prosecuting Authority welcomes the conviction as a significant step in the fight against the theft of trust monies by attorneys as breach of trust, more so the victims of motor vehicle accidents. The collaboration against fighting such crimes yielded positive results in this matter. 

    “The NPA remains committed to fighting financial crimes and ensuring that those who deprive claimants of their monies are prosecuted,” the NPA said. – SAnews.gov.za

    NeoB

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: 1 in 3 Tuvaluans is bidding for a new ‘climate visa’ to Australia – here’s why everyone may ultimately end up applying

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Jane McAdam, Scientia Professor and ARC Laureate Fellow, Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law, UNSW Sydney

    Photo by Fiona Goodall/Getty Images for Lumix

    In just four days, one-third of the population of Tuvalu entered a ballot for a new permanent visa to Australia.

    This world-first visa will enable up to 280 Tuvaluans to move permanently to Australia each year, from a current population of about 10,000. The visa is open to anyone who wants to work, study or live in Australia. Unlike other visa schemes for Pacific peoples, a job offer in Australia is not required.

    While the visa itself doesn’t mention climate change, the treaty that created it is framed in the context of the “existential threat posed by climate change”. That’s why when it was announced, I described it as the world’s first bilateral agreement on climate mobility.

    The Australian government, too, has called it “the first agreement of its kind anywhere in the world, providing a pathway for mobility with dignity as climate impacts worsen”.

    The high number of ballot applications may come as a surprise to many, especially given there were multiple concerns within Tuvalu when the treaty was first announced. Even so, some analysts predicted all Tuvaluans would apply eventually, to keep their options open.

    Tuvalu is one of the world’s smallest countries, covering just 26 square kilometres.
    Hao Hsiang Chen, Shutterstock

    Grabbing the chance

    The visa highlights the importance of creating opportunities for people to move in the context of climate change and disasters. The dangers of rising sea levels are clearly apparent, including coastal flooding, storm damage and water supplies. But there is a lot more at play here.

    For many, especially young families, this will be seen as a chance for education and skills training in Australia. Giving people choices about if, when and where they move is empowering and enables them to make informed decisions about their own lives.

    For the government of Tuvalu, the new visa is also about shoring up the economy. Migration is now a structural component of many Pacific countries’ economies.

    The money migrants send back to their home countries to support their families and communities is known as remittances. In 2023, remittances comprised 28% of GDP in Samoa and nearly 42% of GDP in Tonga – the highest in the world. Currently, Tuvalu sits at 3.2%.

    A long time coming

    Well before climate change became an issue of concern, Tuvalu had been lobbying Australia for special visa pathways. Demographic pressures, combined with limited livelihood and educational opportunities, made it a live policy issue throughout the 1980s and ‘90s. In 1984, a review of Australia’s foreign aid program suggested improved migration opportunities for Tuvaluans may be the most useful form of assistance.

    By the early 2000s, the focus had shifted to the existential threats posed by climate change. In 2006, as then-shadow environment minister, Anthony Albanese released a policy discussion paper called Our Drowning Neighbours. It proposed that Australia create Pacific migration pathways as part of a neighbourly response. In 2009, a spokesperson for Penny Wong, then minister for climate change, stated permanent migration might eventually be the only option for some Pacific peoples.

    When combined with other Pacific pathways to Australia and New Zealand, nearly 4% of the population could migrate each year. This is “an extraordinarily high level”, according to one expert. Within a decade, close to 40% of the population could have moved – although some people may return home or go backwards and forwards.

    How will the new arrivals be received?

    The real test of the new visa’s success will be how people are treated when they arrive in Australia.

    Will they be helped to adjust to life here, or will they feel isolated and shut out? Will they be able to find work and training, or will they find themselves in insecure and uncertain circumstances? Will they feel a loss of cultural connection, or will they be able to maintain cultural traditions within the growing Tuvaluan diaspora?

    Ensuring sound and culturally appropriate settlement services are in place will be crucial. These would ideally be co-developed with members of the Tuvaluan community, to “centralise Tuvaluan culture and values, in order to ensure ongoing dialogue and trust”.

    It has been suggested by experts that a “liaison officer with Tuvaluan cultural expertise and language skills could assist in facilitating activities such as post-arrival programs”, for instance.

    Learning from experience

    There are also many important lessons to be learned from the migration of Tuvaluans to New Zealand, to reduce the risk of newcomers experiencing economic and social hardship.

    Ongoing monitoring and refinement of the scheme will also be key. It should involve the Tuvaluan diaspora, communities back in Tuvalu, service providers in Australia, as well as federal, state/territory and local governments.

    By freeing up resources and alleviating stress on what is already a fragile atoll environment, migration may enable some people to remain in Tuvalu for longer, supported by remittances and extended family networks abroad.

    As some experts have suggested, money sent home from overseas could be used to make families less vulnerable to climate change. It might help them buy rainwater tanks or small boats, or improve internet and other communications. Remittances are also beneficial when they are invested in services that lift the level of education of children or boost social capital.

    Australia is offering ‘climate visas’ to 280 residents of Tuvalu (10 News First)

    Delaying a mass exodus

    It is difficult to know when a tipping point might be reached. For instance, some have warned that if too few people remain in Tuvalu, this could constrain development by limiting the availability of labour and skills. A former president of Kiribati, Teburoro Tito, once told me migration was “a double-edged sword”. While it could help people secure employment overseas and remit money, “the local economy, the local setup, also has to have enough skilled people” – otherwise it’s counterproductive.

    With visas capped at 280 a year – and scope to adjust the numbers if concerns arise – we are still a long way from that point. Right now, the new visa provides a safety net to ensure people have choices about how they respond to climate change. With the visa ballot open until July 18, many more people may yet apply.



    Read more:
    Fresh details emerge on Australia’s new climate migration visa for Tuvalu residents. An expert explains

    Jane McAdam receives funding from the Australian Research Council (ARC) and is the Director of the ARC Evacuations Research Hub at the Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law, UNSW Sydney.

    – ref. 1 in 3 Tuvaluans is bidding for a new ‘climate visa’ to Australia – here’s why everyone may ultimately end up applying – https://theconversation.com/1-in-3-tuvaluans-is-bidding-for-a-new-climate-visa-to-australia-heres-why-everyone-may-ultimately-end-up-applying-259990

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Africa’s development banks are being undermined: the continent will pay the price

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Danny Bradlow, Professor/Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Advancement of Scholarship, University of Pretoria

    Ghana and Zambia’s official creditors are pressing them to default on loans to two African multilateral financial institutions: the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and the Trade and Development Bank (TDB).

    These creditors, in effect, are demanding that the two countries prioritise repayments to themselves over payments to these two banks.

    As academics who have worked on the challenges of financing sustainable development in Africa, we believe this action is short-sighted.

    The action by Ghana and Zambia’s official creditors has two significant implications.

    First, they are demanding that the two countries treat Afreximbank and the Trade and Development Bank as commercial creditors. This would undermine the banks’ credit ratings and increase their borrowing costs. It would also reduce their capacity to finance sustainable development in Africa.

    Second, pressing Ghana and Zambia to default, rather than supporting pragmatic restructuring aligned with their strong growth prospects, exacerbates Ghana and Zambia’s financial vulnerability. Either they would have to use scarce resources to pay these debts or default on their obligations, in which case, the banks might well sue them.

    Quotes from Ghana and Zambia’s ministries of finance suggest the decision to default is their own. However, they faced intense pressure from their official creditors to treat the two African multilateral financial institutions differently from all their other multilateral creditors.

    Why does this differential treatment matter?

    Preferred creditor status

    Multilateral financial institutions, including the World Bank and African Development Bank, have a preferred creditor status. This is in recognition of the special role they play. They are expected to provide relatively low-cost funding for public investment, economic stability and long-term sustainable development in low- and middle-income countries.

    Their preferred creditor status ensures that, when countries experience debt distress, their development mandate is prioritised over the concerns of commercial creditors. Commercial creditors normally only fund commercially viable transactions. They charge high interest rates to compensate for the risk of default on these transactions.

    Both Afreximbank and Trade and Development Bank were created to fill a gap in Africa’s access to critical development finance. They provide financing for projects and transactions that commercial institutions and other multilateral financial institutions cannot – or will not – provide, because of capital limits, regulations or perceptions of risk.

    For example, Afreximbank’s charter notes that

    the decline in African exports has impacted adversely on the economies of African states and hindered their ability to achieve a self-reliant development.

    It further recognises that stimulating economic development

    can best be achieved through the creation of a trade financing international institution whose principal purpose is to provide and mobilise the requisite financial resources.

    Historically, it has enjoyed preferred creditor status to support its role in meeting this purpose.

    Why preferred creditor status is being challenged

    The two countries’ official creditor committees, the rating agency Fitch and other commentators are challenging the preferred creditor status of the two African institutions. They argue that the two banks are different from multilateral financial institutions like the World Bank and the African Development Bank that only have states as shareholders. They suggest that the private shareholders in the two African banks should not benefit from preferred creditor status. Instead, they should receive the same status as commercial creditors.



    Read more:
    Ghana and Zambia have snubbed Africa’s leading development bank: why they should change course

    This view ignores the reason that Afreximbank’s and the Trade and Development Bank’s member states authorised them to have private shareholders. It was a deliberate, pragmatic measure designed to fill a gap in Africa’s access to affordable development finance.

    The idea was to create new multilateral institutions that could raise capital flexibly and quickly on terms that the individual African states could not match on their own. Several other regional development banks have this hybrid model, including CAF, a highly rated development bank in Latin America.

    It is perverse that this creative and pragmatic approach to filling a gap in the global financial system is now being used against the two African banks.

    The consequences

    The cost of capital for the two African financial institutions will increase if they are treated like commercial creditors. This will reduce their capacity to lend and their financing will become more expensive. It will also deepen inequality in the global financial system. Lastly, it will increase the risk of future African sovereign debt defaults.

    In other words, downgrading their status risks undermining the very stability that official creditors claim to safeguard. It will also create another obstacle to Africa’s efforts to access stable, predictable and affordable flows of development finance.

    The eventual outcome of the official creditors’ action will ultimately depend on negotiations between Ghana and Zambia and their creditors. This will include the two African institutions. It will also be influenced by how these different groups of creditors behave in other African sovereign debt restructurings.

    However, the international community can seek to influence the outcome by taking actions in appropriate international settings.

    Global leaders are searching for ways to scale up and strengthen the capacity of regional and subregional development banks like Afreximbank and the Trade and Development Bank. This requires respecting their preferred creditor status and increasing their access to affordable capital.

    This is precisely the opposite of what is unfolding.

    There is still time for the creditor governments to change course by demonstrating their support for African multilateral financial institutions.

    Danny Bradlow, in addition to his position at University of Pretoria, is Senior G20 Advisor to the South African Institute of International Affairs and co-chair of the T20 sask force on sustainable financing.

    Lisa Sachs does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Africa’s development banks are being undermined: the continent will pay the price – https://theconversation.com/africas-development-banks-are-being-undermined-the-continent-will-pay-the-price-259404

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Financial case study: commercial woodland over 100 hectares

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Case study

    Financial case study: commercial woodland over 100 hectares

    Find out how creating a commercial woodland over 100 hectares stacks up with income through grants, timber, and carbon credits

    Understanding woodland financials 

    Woodland creation is a long-term commitment that can diversify your income. Planting the right tree in the right place, can provide new and reliable income streams and far-reaching benefits for your land, your local community and the environment. 

    Potential income from a new woodland is dependent on several factors. This includes species, how quickly trees grow, spacing, how long before harvesting occurs (rotation length), woodland size, and the location of your woodland – all of which can vary considerably resulting in several possible combinations and outcomes.  

    This case study shows how a real landowner created productive woodland. All figures are rounded to the nearest £100 and accurate as of September 2024. 

    Creating a commercial woodland that benefits nature recovery 

    A landowner in the north east of England had large area of semi-improved grass land. To meet their management and financial objectives, they created a large-scale productive woodland across approximately 100 hectares of this land. This woodland will also provide wider benefits to society.  

    The landowner applied for the Woodland Creation Planning Grant (WCPG) and the England Woodland Creation Offer (EWCO) to help fund the project. Over time, the new woodland will: 

    • increase biodiversity 
    • sequester carbon 
    • develop productive stands of broadleaf and conifer species  

    Additionally, the landowner could benefit from private finance through the Woodland Carbon Code (WCC) and timber markets.

    A treemap chart shows the income breakdown of EWCO and WCPG grants. Maintenance: £614,800. Standard costs: £426,800. Woodland infrastructure: £117,700. WCPG: £30,500. Additional contributions – nature recovery: £17,000.

    Woodland Creation Planning Grant (WCPG)  

    Designing new woodland requires bringing together your objectives with the site’s context, suitability; and environmental, economic, and social factors into a UK Forestry Standard (UKFS) compliant plan. This plan helps secure regulatory approval for converting land to woodland.  

    WCPG provides funding to help cover the cost of producing a UKFS compliant woodland creation design. This project received £30,500 in WCPG grant payments. 

    England Woodland Creation Offer (EWCO) 

    EWCO supports the establishment of new woodland by offering financial support for capital costs to plant and protect young trees, costs for maintaining those trees for up to 15 years after planting and installing infrastructure to manage your woodland.  

    The grant recognises the public and environmental benefits that woodlands bring through stackable payments called Additional Contributions. These encourage planting the right tree in the right place for the right reason. 

    This 100+ hectare woodland project will receive £1,206,300 (£11,800 per hectare) in EWCO grant payments over 15 years following initial capital work. This includes standard costs, maintenance payments, Additional Contributions and infrastructure payments. 

    Standard costs for capital work 

    This project received a payment of £426,800 for capital items needed to make the woodland happen – this covers the cost of buying trees and tree tubes, fencing, gates and other essentials, which offsets most of the establishment costs for this woodland. The highest expenses were deer fencing, purchasing and planting a total of 550,000 trees. 

    Maintenance payments 

    The landowner will receive maintenance payments of £400 per hectare for 15 years after planting, totalling £614,800. These payments help with the cost of tree replacement, weeding around the trees and the management of open space within the woodland.  

    Land managers should expect some tree losses in the early years of planting and plan for replacements. Appropriate maintenance and protection will help minimise these losses. For a project of this scale, up to 165,000 replacement trees might be needed in the first few years. 

    Additional contributions 

    EWCO provides extra stackable payments for woodland projects that provide wider benefits to people and the environment. Eligibility depends on the woodland’s design and location.  

    Woodland projects focused on timber production can deliver a range of public benefits. This new woodland qualified for an Additional Contribution for nature recovery benefits. 

    The landowner planted approximately 15 hectares of native woodland within the scheme. Converting semi-improved grassland to native woodland in these areas will improve biodiversity, which qualified for a one-off low nature recovery payment of £17,000.

    Income from timber 

    The demand for wood products in the UK hugely outweighs domestic production. We import over 73% of our timber, which was valued at £9.0 billion in 2022, making the UK the second largest net importer of forest products in the world1. This strong market demand for timber creates income opportunities for woodland owners. 

    This new woodland could generate income from timber in two ways:  

    1. the sale of standing trees, usually via an agent, that is harvested by the buyer 
    2. the sale of timber harvested by the woodland owner and sold as accessible from the roadside 

    This case study focuses on sale of standing timber over a 50-year period. The woodland is expected to produce 115,400m3 of timber through: 

    • regular thinning every 5-years (starting year 14) 
    • a clear fell of 27 hectares of conifer woodland (in year 34) 

    Using an average standing price of £35/m3 for conifer timber, the present value from timber income is estimated to be £1,426,704 (£13,900 per hectare).

    Price assumptions 

    We used £35/m³ based on the average timber price over the last 5 years. Timber prices have the possibility to be higher than assumed in this case study due to the following reasons: 

    • conifer timber prices have increased 200% over the past 20 years 
    • future UK timber demand is expected to remain strong 

    For simplicity, this case study doesn’t account for increasing maintenance costs over time. 

    Income from carbon 

    Carbon markets present an opportunity for landowners to generate more income from their land, by selling the additional carbon that new woodlands will sequester to help mitigate the impacts of climate change.  

    The Woodland Carbon Code (WCC) is the quality assurance standard for UK-based woodland creation projects hoping to generate carbon credits. Woodland creation projects can sell two types of carbon units under the Code:  

    Pending Issuance Units (PIUs)

    These represent estimated future carbon capture. They’re not guaranteed, so can’t be used to report against emissions, but instead allow companies to plan for future offsetting. PIUs convert into WCUs in vintages and at certain points in time, when this occurs the ‘promise’ of future carbon has been verified as converted into actual carbon storage in the woodland. 

    Woodland Carbon Units (WCUs)

    WCUs are verified units that represent one tonne of carbon dioxide that has been sequestered from the atmosphere. Companies purchasing WCUs make statements about their carbon neutrality as soon as they own them. This often results in a higher price per unit than PIUs. These units are independently verified in vintages after planting. 

    Projects under the code must meet a set of requirements, including a financial additionality test. This test must show carbon finance is necessary to make the project viable, and woodland income (without carbon credits) doesn’t exceed current land use income.  

    In this case study, the financial additionality test was passed, woodland creation would generate less income than the existing land use without carbon finance. So, the opportunity to join the voluntary carbon market could be taken up. To find out more about woodland and carbon, read our woodland creation fact sheet.  

    For this case study it has been assumed that all carbon units will be sold upfront as PIUs however, landowners can choose when to sell these units possibly speculating on future carbon price rises.  

    The project was registered and validated under the code and the landowner will verify its progress every 10 years from year 5 onwards, selling all its PIUs up front in Year 5. While landowners can hold credits to potentially benefit from future price increases, this case study assumes all units will be sold upfront as PIUs. 

    Over the first 35 years, the new woodland is likely to deliver over 30,000 WCUs. Using the average price of successful bids at the Woodland Carbon Guarantee auction in 2024 of £25 and assuming upfront sale in year 5 the estimated income from the carbon market is £768,100 (£7,500 per hectare).

    A bar chart shows estimated woodland carbon units (WCUs) for various years. Year 5 estimates 70 WCUs. Year 15: 16,610 WCUs. Year 25: 10,230 WCUs. Year 34: 3,020 WCUs. The total estimates 30,730 WCUs.

    How does this compare to agricultural income?  

    As with any change, there will be some costs associated with the establishment of woodland. For this landowner, who previously used the land for various crops, the main cost is foregone agricultural income. 

    While it’s impossible to predict agricultural income with certainty over a 50-year period, this case study uses the 5-year average Farm Business Income from the annual Farm Business Survey (FBS) for England and Wales to estimate the income foregone.

    An infographic showing the comparison of net income (including agricultural income foregone) and net income (excluding agricultural income foregone).

    Description of Income Income Description of Costs Costs
    WPCG £30,500    
    EWCO standard costs and maintenance payments £884,500 Planting, establishment, and maintenance costs £1,999,700
    EWCO additional contributions £16,500    
    Carbon income £646,700 Woodland Carbon Code costs £4,600
    Net timber income £1,426,700    
        Miscellaneous costs such as insurance £84,100
        Agricultural income forgone 523,000
    Total income £3,004,900 Total costs £2,088,400

    When will this income be seen? 

    While EWCO payments are made up front once planting is completed, followed by 15 years of maintenance, income from timber is realised at different time periods.  

    The table below displays the timeline of net income over a 50-year period. When looking at net income over time it can be determined that this productive forestry site is likely to break even between year 31 and 35 when the highest amount of timber income is received.

    Period Income Costs Net Income
    0-10 £1,560,700 £1,985,000 -£424,300
    10-20 £366,300 £35,600 £330,700
    20-30 £378,300 £25,100 £353,200
    30-40 £800,200 £372,100 £428,000
    40-50 £13,000 £12,300 £700

    Wider benefits of woodland creation  

    Well-managed woodlands can not only offer an additional income stream, but they can also help you cut costs, for example, you could choose to heat buildings with wood fuel harvested from your woodland. Trees offer much more than just commercial benefits and carbon capture: woodlands can support our health and well-being, improve air and water quality, boost biodiversity, protect crops and livestock, prevent nutrient loss and soil erosion, and alleviate flooding.  

    Discover the benefits of planting trees and learn about the positive impact trees can have on your business in our fact sheet: woods mean business.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: AI Airlock, CERSIs and a new global AI network for health regulators

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    AI Airlock, CERSIs and a new global AI network for health regulators

    Med Tech Regs blog, June 2025: A focus on Software and AI.

    Marinos Ioannides, Head of Software and AI Medical Devices, at the London Healthcare Innovation Forum earlier this year.

    Marinos Ioannides, Head of Software and AI Medical Devices:

    If you’re anything like me, Summer in Britain is a season of transformation and hope. Gone are the frozen, damp morning dog walks in darkness. Coats and jackets are locked away, half-empty half-forgotten tubes of sun cream emerge from deep cupboards, radiators are joyfully turned off.

    The same feeling suffuses the Software and AI team here at the MHRA. Our recent AI Airlock webinar and this week’s opening of our new call for applications boldly announces a new year of inspiration, exploration and progress in innovative regulation. Building on the successes of last year’s excellent pilot programme, we’re eager to unlock and expand insights with industry and see first hand how innovative products and teams can help identify regulatory challenges in the Software as Medical Devices space.

    The Centres of Excellence for Regulatory Science and Innovation (CERSIs) are further enhancing MHRA delivery. RADIANT announced their Innovator Support Programme, giving companies the opportunity to trial open-source tools, educational materials and workshops to demystify regulations and make sure that regulatory complexity does not stand between patients and life-changing technologies.

    For clarity, the two programmes deliver subtly different changes “behind the scenes” here at MHRA. The direct engagement MHRA has with members of the AI Airlock allows the findings to inform our foundational thinking for the regulation of Software and AI Medical Devices. The information and detail delivered by RADIANT is downstream of this – augmenting what tools, educational material and guidance is provided to help innovators navigate the broader regulatory landscape.

    Not to be outdone, CERSI-AI have also ramped up their productivity, coordinating key meetings between academics, clinicians and MHRA to unpick the nuances of AI regulation, now and in the future. With a clear path to sustainability and deliverables already being met, both CERSIs continue to improve and inform this rapidly developing space.

    This is part of a broader perspective at MHRA – that innovation and patient safety are not in opposition. Rather, innovation, driven by competition, delivers better products which make patients safer. Demands for patient safety, through clear documentation and proportionate regulation that provides a level playing field and secure, protective framework, create a more transparent market ensuring innovative products excel.

    In the spirit of Summer, our work alongside Health AI presents a real growth opportunity. This week we were proud to announce that we became the first country in the world to join Health AI’s new global network of health regulators focussed on the safe and effective use of AI in healthcare. As a founding pioneer nation, we will work with regulators around the world to share early warnings on safety, monitor how AI tools perform in practice, and shape international standards together – helping make AI in healthcare safer and more effective for patients around the world.

    Our work in the Digital Mental Health space continues to bear fruit. As we progress and deliver key, actionable insights through our specific guidance, we continue our engagement with experts to direct and augment our publications. If you’re attending the Royal College of Psychiatrists International Conference in Newport this week, you’ll see MHRA representatives there, eager to hear how we can enhance our work to deliver useful insights in this essential HealthTech space.

    Just as no good summer holiday is possible without a translation phrasebook, we will shortly be publishing our Good Machine Learning Practice (GMLP) guidance to ease translation between regulatory frameworks. By transparently outlining our logic, we hope that industry, users and other regulators will be reassured of our alignment with international principles in this emergent space and get insights into our thinking and processes. As we refine this piece of keystone guidance, we also continue to progress our CyberSecurity and AI development and deployment guidance and we look forward to publishing that soon.

    Beyond software, the innovative devices team moves from success to success with a clear, tangible deliverable from our accelerated Innovative Devices Access Pathway (IDAP). Revolutionary technologies like HistoSonics’ ultrasound device, which breaks up tumours without surgery or radiation, is the sort of thing once considered science fiction. Yet, thanks to the excellent work of IDAP partners and MHRA colleagues, patients now have access to a game changing treatment for liver cancer – an example of smart, agile regulation in action.

    And, of course, no Summer would be complete without London Tech Week. It’s a genuine pleasure to see the wonders that innovators continue to create. The opportunity to exchange ideas, debate economics and regulations, and get hands-on experiences with new developments is a real privilege. Presenting our regulatory strategy alongside leaders like David Lawson from the Department of Health and Social Care and Richard Phillips from the Association of British HealthTech Industries at Australia House was an opportunity only surpassed by a chance to see the Lord Mayor of the City of London in the flesh – bedecked with full ceremonial chain and garb!

    Whether you’re out in a park turning red while trying to get a year’s supply of Vitamin D, or gritting your teeth as your laptop overheats, don’t curse the season of the sun. The MHRA are here learning, innovating and applying international best practices to maximise patient safety today and tomorrow, whatever the weather!

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • From innovation to inclusion: India celebrates MSME Day with a focus on sustainability

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    MSME Day, observed on June 27, honours the vital role that Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises play in driving innovation, employment, and inclusive economic growth. From local artisans to emerging tech startups, MSMEs are the backbone of resilient economies. This day highlights their achievements and challenges, while underscoring the critical need for policy support, financial inclusion, and digital transformation to help them thrive in an increasingly competitive world.

    Designated by the United Nations in 2017, the day serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting and empowering small businesses as engines of resilience and development—particularly in a post-pandemic, digitally evolving world.

    Globally, MSMEs account for 90% of all businesses, contribute 60–70% of employment, and generate half of the world’s GDP, according to UN estimates. In India, the sector holds even greater relevance—contributing nearly 30% to GDP, 45% of exports, and ranking second only to agriculture in employment generation.

    This year, the Ministry of MSME is celebrating ‘Udyami Bharat – MSME Day.’ The theme for 2025 focuses on “Enhancing the role of MSMEs as drivers of Sustainable Growth and Innovation.”

    Key government schemes

    The Ministry reported that India is home to over 6.3 crore MSMEs, spanning manufacturing, trade, and services. Several flagship initiatives are underway to support the sector’s growth.

    PM Vishwakarma, launched in September 2023 with an outlay of ₹13,000 crore, aims to enhance the skills and market access of traditional artisans and craftspeople. As of June 26, 2025, more than 2.71 crore applications had been submitted under the scheme, with nearly 30 lakh beneficiaries registered.

    The Udyam Registration Portal, introduced in July 2020, provides free, paperless registration for MSMEs. To extend formal benefits to informal businesses, the Udyam Assist Platform was launched in January 2023.

    Job creation and credit access

    The Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), a credit-linked subsidy scheme, continues to promote self-employment by supporting the setup of micro-enterprises. Since its launch in 2008, it has aided more than 9.87 lakh units, generating over 80 lakh jobs with subsidies exceeding ₹26,000 crore. In FY 2024-25 alone, 58,028 new units were set up, creating employment for over 4.6 lakh people.

    Support for traditional industries

    The Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries (SFURTI), which clusters artisans for competitiveness and sustainable income, has approved 513 clusters, of which 376 are functional. In 2023-24, 18 new clusters benefited nearly 12,000 artisans across 11 states.

    The Khadi and Village Industries sector has also seen rapid expansion. Sales have grown from ₹33,135 crore in 2014-15 to ₹1.55 lakh crore in 2023-24. Production has tripled in the same period, reaching over ₹1.08 lakh crore last fiscal.

    Boosting public procurement

    To enhance market access, the Public Procurement Policy mandates that 25 per cent of procurement by Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) be sourced from MSEs, including 4 per cent from SC/ST-owned and 3 per cent from women-owned businesses. In FY 2024-25 (as on December 5), CPSEs and departments procured goods worth ₹37,190 crore from 1.15 lakh MSEs—well above the target.

    Global outreach and partnerships

    The Ministry also focused on strengthening international partnerships. In 2024, India signed MoUs with Japan, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Egypt, and the US to support MSME development, training, and technology exchange. Key engagements included a Joint Working Group with Japan, collaboration with the US EXIM Bank, and a partnership with Taiwan’s ITRI.

    New initiatives and digital campaigns

    A series of 2024 campaigns and programmes targeted MSME digitisation and inclusion. The Special Campaign 4.0 in October cleared backlogs, freed up 43,342 sq ft of space, and generated ₹21.84 lakh through disposal of obsolete materials.

    The MSME-TEAM Scheme, launched on June 27, 2024, has an outlay of ₹277 crore to support five lakh micro and small enterprises, half of them led by women, with digital onboarding, logistics, and packaging support.

    The Yashasvini Campaign, also launched this June, aims to formalise and support women-led enterprises in partnership with NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Rural Development.

    The MSME Hackathon 4.0, launched in September 2024, is providing funding of up to ₹15 lakh to 500 young innovators. Additionally, the new Centre for Rural Enterprise Acceleration through Technology (CREATE) was inaugurated in Leh to support enterprise in the Himalayan region.

    MSMEs are transforming India’s growth by driving innovation, creating jobs, and empowering local communities—especially in rural and semi-urban areas. With policy support, digital tools, and new market access, they are key to sustainable, inclusive development.

    MSME Day is not just a celebration; it’s a reflection of how small businesses are shaping a self-reliant and future-ready India.

  • MIL-OSI: BloFin Empowers Users with Coin-Margined Perpetual Trading Solution

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ROAD TOWN, Virgin Islands, June 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BloFin, a leading cryptocurrency exchange known for its user-centric innovation, is pleased to announce the launch of coin-margined perpetual contracts for leading crypto assets including Bitcoin (BTCUSD) and Ethereum (ETHUSD), further expanding its suite of advanced derivatives offerings. Starting Jun 21st, BloFin users can trade perpetual contracts with crypto as collateral, unlocking a fully crypto-native trading experience.

    Coin-margined perpetual contracts—also referred to as coin-based perpetual swaps—are a class of crypto derivatives that allow traders to speculate on price movements without an expiry date. Unlike USDT-margined contracts, which require stablecoins for margin and settlement, coin-margined contracts are collateralized and settled directly in the base cryptocurrency (e.g., BTC or ETH), giving users greater flexibility and alignment with long-term crypto holdings.

    The newly introduced contracts provide users with a streamlined approach to leveraging digital assets, with the added benefit of profit settlement in crypto, preserving long-term exposure to market appreciation. This structure not only enables improved capital efficiency but also aligns with the upward momentum of the broader digital asset ecosystem.

    With this launch, BloFin reinforces its position as a next-generation trading platform, offering a robust infrastructure for both retail and professional users. More coin-margined pairs will be introduced in the coming months.

    For more information on how coin-margined contracts differ from USDT-margined ones, visit: https://support.blofin.com/hc/en-us/articles/13044822981647-Coin-Margined-Perpetual-Contracts-Now-Live-on-BloFin

    About BloFin

    BloFin is a top-tier cryptocurrency exchange that specializes in futures trading. The platform offers 480+ USDT-M perpetual pairs, Coin-Margined Perpetual Contracts, spot trading, copy trading, API access, unified account management, and advanced sub-account solutions. Committed to security and compliance, BloFin integrates Fireblocks and Chainalysis to ensure robust asset protection. By partnering with top affiliates, BloFin delivers scalable trading solutions, efficient fund management, and enhanced flexibility for professional traders. As the constant sponsor of TOKEN2049, BloFin continues to expand its global presence, reinforcing its position as the place “WHERE WHALES ARE MADE.” For more information, visit BloFin’s official website at https://www.blofin.com.

    Contact:
    Annio W.
    annio@blofin.io

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

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e84ec3e8-ba51-49d5-9289-675852a6f5c7

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Low Altitude Economy Forum held

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Invest Hong Kong today hosted the inaugural Hong Kong Low Altitude Economy Forum.

    Themed “Dream to the Sky”, the forum brought together leaders from the government, industry, academia and research sectors to explore the policy direction, technological development and application prospects of a low-altitude economy (LAE). They discussed regulatory frameworks, cross-boundary collaboration and infrastructure support, showcasing Hong Kong’s progress in innovation and new industrial development. The forum attracted over 250 local and international stakeholders.

    LAE is one of the key policy initiatives announced in the 2024 Policy Address. The Working Group on Developing Low-altitude Economy was established under the leadership of Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong to promote institutional innovation, technology implementation and industry ecosystem building.

    Speaking at the forum, Mr Wong said the Government will act as a facilitator and enabler, and continue to move fast. He noted that LAE has strong synergy with other sectors of the economy, stimulating growth and driving positive changes. The total impact and benefits to society, he said, will be greater than the sum of its parts.

    Today’s forum featured updates on the launch of the first batch of Regulatory Sandbox pilot projects, and the direction of upcoming legislative amendments to civil aviation regulations covering higher-payload and passenger-carrying unmanned aerial systems, to fuel the future development of Advanced Air Mobility.

    Secretary for Transport & Logistics Mable Chan supplemented that the LAE Regulatory Sandbox, covering a wide range of fields, including emergency rescue, logistics, infrastructure inspection and surveillance, is more than just a testing ground.

    “It is a launch pad for transformative technologies that will shape the future of urban mobility, logistics, and public services. These diverse applications demonstrate the remarkable versatility of low-altitude technologies and showcase how unmanned systems can solve unique urban challenges while creating new economic opportunities.”

    She added that Hong Kong’s strengths such as professional services in airspace management, technology integration and specialised insurance, make it an ideal hub for LAE development.

    “Looking forward, we will continue to leverage these advantages to create a regional ecosystem where businesses and researchers in the LAE field can thrive.”

    Furthermore, the forum highlighted the immense growth potential of the low-altitude industry value chain and the critical role of government-industry-academia-research collaboration in driving innovation. Three thematic panel discussions explored low-altitude technology and innovation, infrastructure development and safety management, as well as application scenarios including logistics, emergency response and urban planning.

    Speakers at the forum included representatives from the Polytechnic University, the University of Science & Technology, the University of Hong Kong, the Applied Science & Technology Research Institute, the Productivity Council, Cyberport, and CLP Power. Participants shared insights on cutting-edge research and real-world applications. Many noted that Hong Kong’s strong research foundation, sound institutional support and mature cross-sector collaboration provide a solid base for advancing industrial applications and regional integration, further positioning the city as a driving force for low altitude innovation across Asia.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Indian markets likely to rise in Q3 FY26: Morgan Stanley

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indian stock markets are more likely to rise than fall in the third quarter of the financial year 2026 (Q3 FY26), global brokerage Morgan Stanley said in a note on Friday.
     
    The firm remains bullish on Indian equities, expecting strong economic data, supportive measures from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), and better-than-expected corporate earnings to drive market gains from July onwards.
     
    According to Morgan Stanley, India is showing signs of steady improvement. Government spending is increasing, and the RBI appears to be shifting towards a more accommodative or ‘dovish’ policy stance. This, along with easing inflation, is creating a favourable environment for equities.
     
    The brokerage also believes that lower interest rates will encourage banks to increase lending, thereby boosting credit growth. Furthermore, if global uncertainties ease, Indian companies may begin to invest more in new projects.
     
    A key driver for the markets could be the upcoming corporate earnings season. Morgan Stanley expects many companies to exceed market expectations, supported by a lower base, improved operational efficiency, and steady consumer demand.
     
    Looking ahead, the RBI may cut interest rates by 25 basis points in the fourth quarter, which could further improve market sentiment.
     
    However, the brokerage cautioned that global factors continue to exert a significant influence on India’s markets. Rising geopolitical tensions, shifts in global trade policies, or a slowdown in developed economies could negatively impact domestic equities.
     
    Although India is generally viewed as a stable market, a broad-based global sell-off would likely have a spillover effect on Indian stocks. For instance, a sharp fall in crude oil prices could signal deeper global economic concerns, which may weigh on investor confidence.
     
    Despite these risks, Morgan Stanley believes that strong retail investor participation and sustained foreign institutional interest will provide a cushion against potential downside.
     
    Indian equities also benefit from a ‘scarcity premium’ and ongoing structural reforms such as the Goods and Services Tax (GST) overhaul and infrastructure development, which continue to bolster investor confidence.
     
    While current valuations are high relative to historical averages, the brokerage considers them justified in light of the strong earnings outlook.
     
    In the long term, India’s stable policy environment and robust growth potential make it one of the most attractive investment destinations among emerging markets, Morgan Stanley said.
     
    — IANS

  • MIL-OSI Africa: National Assembly (NA) Adopts Joint Ethics and Members’ Interests Committee Report


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    During its plenary sitting this afternoon, the National Assembly adopted the report of the Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests on the non-disclosures of members’ interests for 2024.

    The committee found eight Members of Parliament of the National Assembly in breach of the Code of Ethical Conduct and Disclosure of Members’ Interests for failing to submit their financial and other registrable interests by the deadline of 14 October 2024.

    Members found in breach include Mr Mluleki Dlelanga(ANC), Mr Mkhuleko Hlengwa (IFP), Nhlamulo Ndhlela(MK), Mr Mzoleli Mrara (ANC), Ms MasetshegoMofokeng (ANC), Ms Maropene Ramokgopa (ANC), Mr Sihle Zikalala (ANC) and Mr Andries Nel (ANC).

    A reprimand in the House and a fine of R10,000 were recommended for the eight members.

    The Code serves as a vital instrument in promoting public trust and ensuring that Members of Parliament conduct their duties in the best interests of the people of South Africa. Mandatory disclosure of Members’ financial and other interests is a cornerstone of ethical governance. It helps prevent conflicts of interest, ensures accountability, reinforces public confidence in Parliament and safeguards Parliament’s integrity against undue influence or personal enrichment.

    During 2024, which was an election year, Members were required to disclose their registrable interests within 60 working days after the Opening of Parliament. The next disclosure period occurs from 1 April to 30 June annually, i.e. during quarter one of the financial year. Whenever there are changes to their registrable or financial interests’, Members must update their disclosures during the remaining three quarters of the financial year. A Member with no interests to declare must still submit a “nil” return.

    Disclosures must be submitted electronically and include detailed information on, among other things, employment, assets, gifts, interests held by immediate family members, and travel. The 2024 Public Register was published on the parliamentary website.

    The Registrar of Members’ Interests plays a central role in administering the disclosure process. Among other things, the Registrar maintains the Register, oversees the timely submission of disclosures and handles complaints and preliminary investigations into breaches of the Code.

    Where Members fail to disclose their interests or submit false information, the matter is referred to the Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests. Depending on the severity of the breach, penalties may include reprimands, fines, suspension or other corrective actions as recommended by the Committee.

    Parliament remains committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct and transparency, reinforcing its role as a trusted representative of the South African people.

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

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Coffee exporters from Africa, the Pacific, Latin America, and Southeast Asia showcase at World of Coffee Geneva 2025


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    The International Trade Centre (ITC) is showcasing its longstanding leadership in sustainable coffee development at the Specialty Coffee Association’s World of Coffee – Europe’s largest coffee trade show – hosted for the first time in Geneva from 26–28 June 2025.

    For over two decades, ITC has worked closely with the International Coffee Organization and regional institutions to support coffee value chains and SMEs across Latin America, Africa and Asia. From its flagship publication, The Coffee Guide – now in its fourth edition and widely regarded as the industry reference – to its deep partnerships promoting circular economy and inclusive business models, ITC supports building resilience, competitiveness and sustainable value chains for SME development..

    This year’s presence at the World of Coffee spotlights how ITC is investing in value addition, technical capacity building, regional trade, and youth and women-led entrepreneurship – with a focus on accompanying small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in their efforts to benefit from trade while securing better market access and stronger returns. 

    ITC Executive Director Pamela Coke-Hamilton said: ‘Coffee is more than a commodity – for the many small businesses we support in countries across the world, the ability to improve the quality of their beans, process at origin and meet sustainability requirements in the face of rising climate concerns means they’re able to adapt to changes to tap into new markets and compete at the global level.’

    ICO Executive Director Vanusia Nogueira said: ‘No one can tackle the coffee sector’s challenges alone. We need expertise, funding, capable people and strong partnerships for collective action. The ICO and ITC have worked together for many years, and Pamela and I have deepened this collaboration – going beyond The Coffee Guide to drive calls to action across numerous coffee-producing countries. Together, we’ve supported efforts ranging from EUDR compliance and new field procedures to market access and boosting local consumption – each critical to increasing incomes where coffee is grown.’

    Hon. Bwino Fred Kyakulaga, Uganda’s Minister of State for Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, said: ‘Uganda reaffirms its ambitious commitment to transform its export trajectory—from $50 billion to $500 billion—through strategic value addition. Coffee will be one of the primary drivers for achieving this target, reinforcing not only our economic competitiveness but also our national transformation agenda. Additionally, the Government of Uganda has set aside $100 million to support investment in the gradual transition of the coffee sector from green bean export to both green bean and soluble coffee exports in a bid to generate more revenue and income for the farmers and the country as a whole.’

    In a separate meeting with ITC Deputy Executive Director Dorothy Tembo and her team, Hon. Bwino explored the possibility of a partnership with ITC focusing on value addition through science and technology transfer for sustainably increased coffee processing production.

    ITC at World of Coffee

    Booth 1359 | Palexpo Geneva | 26–28 June

    At Booth 1359, visitors can taste unique coffees from across the globe, connect directly with producers, and learn how ITC programmes are enabling sustainable and inclusive coffee growth from seed to sip.

    ITC will also co-host national booths with coffee sector stakeholders from:

    • Booth 1359: Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Ghana 

    • Booth 2469: Burundi

    • Booth 2365: Kenya

    • Booth 2531: Lao People’s Democratic Republic 

    • Booth 2467: Papua New Guinea

    • Booth 2271: Rwanda

    • Booth 2377: United Republic of Tanzania

    • Booth 2371: Uganda

    ITC Programmes represented

    • ITC Window I Trust Fund, related to the development of methodologies associated with accompanying SMEs in the green transition

    • European Union-East African Community Market Access Upgrade Programme (MARKUP) II, funded by the EU, will support over 40 coffee companies from East Africa to exhibit and engage with buyers.

    • African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States (ACP) Business-Friendly, funded by the EU and Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States, empowers small businesses through value addition, circular economy and trade development.

    • Netherlands Trust Fund V, funded by the Government of the Netherlands, supports coffee producers in Ethiopia, Ghana, and Senegal to grow exports and secure livelihoods.

    • United Kingdom Trade Partnerships Programme (UKTP), funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, aims to increase trade from developing countries to the United Kingdom and the European Union by maximizing the benefits of respective Economic Partnership Agreements and the United Kingdom’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme. 

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Trade Centre.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Seven killed, 27 injured in monsoon rains in Pakistan’s Punjab

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    ISLAMABAD, June 27 (Xinhua) — At least seven people were killed and 27 others injured in incidents triggered by heavy monsoon rains in Pakistan’s eastern Punjab province in the past 24 hours, the regional disaster management authority said on Thursday.

    According to him, two men drowned in Jhelum, one child each died in Okara and Bahawalnagar, two people died in a wall collapse in Muzaffargarh and another was struck by lightning in Khanewal.

    Injuries were also reported in Multan, Faisalabad, Sahiwal, Shorkot and Mandi Bahauddin, mostly due to roof and wall collapse or electrocution.

    The Disaster Management Authority urged residents to take precautions and announced financial assistance for the families of victims in line with government policy.

    The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast continued monsoon rains across the country until July 1, warning of 25 percent above normal rainfall this season, increasing the risk of urban flooding, especially in low-lying areas. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai presides over fourth meeting of Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Details
    2025-03-18
    President Lai meets Commander-in-Chief of US Veterans of Foreign Wars Alfred Lipphardt  
    On the morning of March 18, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Alfred Lipphardt, commander-in-chief of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) of the United States. In remarks, President Lai thanked the US government and Congress for helping Taiwan strengthen its self-defense capabilities, helping defend our common interests in the Indo-Pacific region. The president noted that as China attempts to intimidate Taiwan politically and militarily, strengthening Taiwan’s security means advancing global security and prosperity. He stated that we will continue to work closely with like-minded countries to safeguard freedom and jointly uphold regional peace, stability, and prosperity. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I warmly welcome Commander-in-Chief Lipphardt as he leads this delegation to Taiwan for exchange. The VFW of the US has a fraternal relationship with Taiwan’s Veterans Affairs Council (VAC). Every year, the VFW invites our VAC to attend and deliver remarks at its National Convention. The VFW has also passed resolutions in support of the Republic of China (Taiwan). I want to thank the VFW for continuing to advance exchanges and cooperation with Taiwan and for deepening our friendship over the years. There is much that Taiwan can learn about veteran care from the United States. For example, the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), formed in 1989, is the second-largest US federal agency after the Department of Defense. And the VA’s commitment to providing services and support to veterans is truly admirable. Since taking office, I have visited military bases and presided over important military events on numerous occasions. One memorable instance was a visit to the Taoyuan Veterans Home, where I attended residents’ birthday celebrations. I also thanked them for all they had done for our country and for showing patriotism through their actions. Soldiers go to great lengths to protect the nation and people’s lives and property. It is thus the government’s duty and responsibility to provide for veterans so that they can lead secure and dignified lives and to safeguard their beloved homeland. I want to thank the US government and Congress for helping Taiwan strengthen its self-defense capabilities, establishing robust bilateral economic and trade links, and supporting Taiwan’s international participation. These actions help defend our common interests in the Indo-Pacific region. As China attempts to intimidate Taiwan politically and militarily, strengthening Taiwan’s security means advancing global security and prosperity. We will continue to work closely with like-minded countries to safeguard freedom and jointly uphold regional peace, stability, and prosperity. In closing, I once again thank you all for your visit. I wish you a smooth trip and look forward to even stronger friendship between veterans in Taiwan and the US. Commander-in-Chief Lipphardt then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for giving his time and saying that he is very proud to lead his delegation here. Noting that the very strong relationship between the VFW of the US and VAC of Taiwan dates back to 1980, the commander-in-chief said that at their National Convention in 2023, VAC Deputy Minister Wu Chih-yang (吳志揚) and then-VFW Commander-in-Chief Tim Borland renewed that relationship in a joint proclamation. He also said that a pre-taped video message from then-President Tsai Ing-wen was played for the members in attendance, which was a very proud moment. Commander-in-Chief Lipphardt, mentioning that the VFW will be holding its National Convention in Columbus, Ohio, this coming August, said he hopes President Lai will be able to provide a video address for the event. He also noted that the VFW Department of Pacific Areas will have their convention in Bangkok, Thailand on June 18-21, and that they invite members of the Taiwan VAC to join them at these events. Commander-in-Chief Lipphardt stated that the VFW is very proud to be the only veteran service organization to have a post located here in Taipei. He mentioned that the VFW will also hold a community service project in May, and that they look forward to being joined by US veterans throughout the country who will come and join this meaningful event. Commander-in-Chief Lipphardt stated that the VFW treasures its relationship with Taiwan, adding that Taiwan is a beautiful country with beautiful people. In closing, the commander-in-chief thanked President Lai once again for allowing them to come visit today and said that they look forward to continuing to build our relationship. Also in attendance were National President of the VFW Auxiliary Brenda Bryant, National Chief of Staff of the VFW Jeff Carroll, former National President of the VFW Auxiliary Jane Reape, and Executive Director of the VFW Washington Office Ryan Gallucci.  

    Details
    2025-03-04
    President Lai attends opening ceremony of GCTF Workshop on Whole-of-Society Resilience Building, Preparation, and Response
    On the morning of March 4, President Lai Ching-te attended the opening ceremony of the Global Cooperation and Training Framework (GCTF) Workshop on Whole-of-Society Resilience Building, Preparation, and Response. In remarks, President Lai stated that global challenges such as extreme weather, pandemics, and energy crises continue to emerge, and growing authoritarianism presents a grave threat to freedom-loving countries. These challenges have no borders, he said, and absolutely no single country can face them alone. The president said that as a responsible member of the international community, Taiwan is both willing and able to contribute even more to the democracy, peace, and prosperity of the world, and that the GCTF is an important platform where Taiwan can make those contributions by sharing its experiences with the rest of the world. President Lai indicated that Taiwan will join the forces of the central and local governments to enhance social resilience across the board, enhance disaster response capabilities in the community, and leverage its strengths to make contributions to the international community. He said that we are demonstrating to the world our determination to create an even more resilient Taiwan, and expressed hope to advance mutual assistance and exchanges with all the countries involved, so that we can together promote stability and prosperity around the world. A transcript of President Lai’s remarks follows: To begin, I would like to welcome more than 60 distinguished guests from 30 countries, as well as experts from Taiwan. You are all here for this GCTF workshop to discuss whole-of-society resilience building, preparation, and response. As a responsible member of the international community, Taiwan is both willing and able to contribute even more to the democracy, peace, and prosperity of the world. The GCTF is an important platform where Taiwan can make those contributions by sharing its experiences with the rest of the world. I want to thank our full GCTF partners, the United States, Japan, Australia, and Canada. Over the past several years, we have worked with even more countries through this framework and have expanded our exchanges into even more fields. Together, we have met all kinds of new challenges. I am confident that as our cooperation grows stronger, so will our ability to promote global progress. Each of today’s guests is contributing a vital force in that regard. I extend my sincere thanks to you all. Global challenges such as extreme weather, pandemics, and energy crises continue to emerge. And growing authoritarianism presents a grave threat to freedom-loving countries. These challenges have no borders, and absolutely no single country can face them alone. Taiwan holds a key position on the first island chain, and stands at the very frontline of the defense of democracy. With this joint workshop, we are demonstrating to the world our determination to create an even more resilient Taiwan. We are also aiming to advance our mutual assistance and exchanges with all the countries involved, so that we can make our societies more resilient and together promote stability and prosperity around the world. Moving forward, we will continue advancing the following three initiatives: First, we will join the forces of the central and local governments to enhance social resilience across the board. Just last year, I established the Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee at the Presidential Office. Civilian force training, strategic material preparation, and critical infrastructure operation and maintenance are all key discussion areas for our committee. These aim to enhance Taiwan’s resilience in national defense, economic livelihoods, disaster prevention, and democracy. They are also items on the agenda for this GCTF workshop. To cover all the bases, Taiwan must unite and cooperate as a team. Last year, our committee held the very first cross-sector tabletop exercise at the Presidential Office which included central and local government officials as well as civilian observers. We aim to test the government’s emergency response capabilities in high-intensity gray-zone operations and near-conflict situations. We will continue to hold exercises to help the central and local governments work together more efficiently, and strengthen Taiwan’s overall disaster response capabilities. Second is to enhance disaster response capabilities in the community. We fully understand that to build whole-of-society resilience, we must help people increase risk awareness, know how to respond to disasters, and develop abilities to help themselves, help one another, and work together. We are grateful to the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) for collaborating with the Taiwan Development Association for Disaster Medical Teams to host “Take Action” workshops around the country since 2021. A 2.0 version is already in practice, and continues to train the public in first aid skills. Director of the AIT Taipei Office Raymond Greene and I took part in a Take Action event in New Taipei City last year and personally saw the positive outcomes of the training. In addition to the Take Action workshops, the government is also providing Disaster Relief Volunteer training for ages 11 to 89, and is continuing to expand its target audience. We have also set up Taiwan Community Emergency Response Teams at key facilities nationwide, enhancing the ability of these important facilities to respond independently to disasters. Civilian training will continue to be refined and expanded so that members of the public can serve as important partners in government-led disaster prevention and relief. Third, we will leverage Taiwan’s strengths to make contributions to the international community. The inspiration for our Disaster Relief Volunteer training comes from a similar program run by The Nippon Care-Fit Education Institute in Japan. I am confident that through exchanges like this workshop, Taiwan and other countries can also inspire one another in many areas, and enhance whole-of-society resilience in multiple ways. Taiwan also excels in information and communications and advanced technology. We will set up even more robust cybersecurity systems, expand usage of emerging technologies, and improve the ways we maintain domestic security. We hope that by leveraging our capabilities and sharing our experiences, Taiwan can contribute even more to the international community. I want to welcome all our partners once again, and thank AIT for co-hosting this event. Let’s continue down the path of advancing global security and developing resilience together. Because together, we can travel farther, and we can travel longer. Also in attendance at the event were Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Deputy Representative Takaba Yo, Australian Office in Taipei Representative Robert Fergusson, and Canadian Trade Office in Taipei Executive Director Jim Nickel.

    Details
    2025-02-17
    President Lai meets former United States Deputy National Security Advisor Matthew Pottinger
    On the morning of February 17, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by former United States Deputy National Security Advisor Matthew Pottinger. In remarks, President Lai thanked the delegation for demonstrating staunch support for Taiwan through their visit. The president pointed out that increased cooperation between authoritarian regimes is posing risks and challenges to the geopolitical landscape and regional security. He emphasized that only by bolstering our defense capabilities can we demonstrate effective deterrence and maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and around the world. The president stated that moving forward, Taiwan will continue to enhance its self-defense capabilities. He also expressed hope of strengthening the Taiwan-US partnership and jointly building secure and resilient non-red supply chains so as to ensure that Taiwan, the US, and democratic partners around the world maintain a technological lead. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I am delighted to welcome our good friends Mr. Pottinger and retired US Rear Admiral Mr. Mark Montgomery to Taiwan once again. Last June, Mr. Pottinger and Mr. Ivan Kanapathy came to Taiwan to launch their new book The Boiling Moat. During that visit, they also visited the Presidential Office. We held an extensive exchange of views on Taiwan-US relations and regional affairs right here in the Taiwan Heritage Room. Now, as we meet again eight months later, I am pleased to learn that Mr. Kanapathy is now serving on the White House National Security Council. The Mandarin translation of The Boiling Moat is also due to be released in Taiwan very soon. This book offers insightful observations from US experts regarding US-China-Taiwan relations and valuable advice for the strengthening of Taiwan’s national defense, security, and overall resilience. I am sure that Taiwanese readers will benefit greatly from it. I understand that this is Mr. Montgomery’s fourth visit to Taiwan and that he has long paid close attention to Taiwan-related issues. I look forward to an in-depth discussion with our two friends on the future direction of Taiwan-US relations and cooperation. Increased cooperation between authoritarian regimes is posing risks and challenges to the geopolitical landscape and regional security. One notion we all share is peace through strength. That is, only by bolstering our defense capabilities and fortifying our defenses can we demonstrate effective deterrence and maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and around the world. Moving forward, Taiwan will continue to enhance its self-defense capabilities. We also hope to strengthen the Taiwan-US partnership in such fields as security, trade and the economy, and energy. In addition, we will advance cooperation in critical and innovative technologies and jointly build secure and resilient non-red supply chains. This will ensure that Taiwan, the US, and democratic partners around the world maintain a technological lead. We believe that closer Taiwan-US exchanges and cooperation not only benefit national security and development but also align with the common economic interests of Taiwan and the US. I want to thank Mr. Pottinger and Mr. Montgomery once again for visiting and for continuing to advance Taiwan-US exchanges, demonstrating staunch support for Taiwan. Let us continue to work together to deepen Taiwan-US relations. I wish you a smooth and fruitful visit.  Mr. Pottinger then delivered remarks, first congratulating President Lai on his one-year election anniversary and on the state of the economy, which, he added, is doing quite well. Mentioning President Lai’s recent statement pledging to increase Taiwan’s defense budget to above 3 percent of GDP, Mr. Pottinger said he thinks that the benchmark is equal to what the US spends on its defense and that it is a good starting point for both countries to build deterrence. Echoing the president’s earlier remarks, Mr. Pottinger said that peace through strength is the right path for the US and for Taiwan right now at a moment when autocratic, aggressive governments are on the march. He then paraphrased the words of former US President George Washington in his first inaugural address, saying that the best way to keep the peace is to be prepared at all times for war, which captures the meaning of peace through strength. In closing, he said he looks forward to exchanging views with President Lai.

    Details
    2024-12-26
    President Lai presides over second meeting of Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee
    On the afternoon of December 26, President Lai Ching-te presided over the second meeting of the Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee. President Lai stated that the committee’s goal is to enhance overall resilience in terms of national defense, economic livelihoods, disaster prevention, and democracy through five key areas: civilian force training and utilization, strategic material preparation and critical supply distribution, energy and critical infrastructure operations and maintenance, social welfare, medical care, and evacuation facility readiness, and information, transportation, and financial network protection. That morning, he said, was the first time that central and local government officials, as well as civilian observers, gathered at the Presidential Office to conduct cross-disciplinary tabletop exercises, demonstrating cooperation between central and local governments to jointly enhance social resilience. President Lai also announced that the existing Wan An and Min An Exercises, which are air raid drills and disaster response drills, respectively, beginning from next year will be combined into the 2025 Urban Resilience Exercises, the nomenclature of which matches up with that of similar exercises carried out overseas. The exercises, he said, will strengthen the defensive mechanisms of the non-military sector, and verify the ability of civil defense and disaster preparedness systems to protect our nation’s people. The president emphasized that combining government and private-sector forces is the only way to strengthen Taiwan’s overall defense capabilities, jointly consolidate global democratic resilience, and maintain regional peace and stability. A translation of President Lai’s opening statement follows: Today, we are convening the second meeting of the Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee, implementing the conclusions reached at the last meeting, conducting tabletop exercises, and verifying the preparedness of government agencies to address extreme situations. Looking back over the past year, circumstances at home and abroad have changed rapidly. Authoritarian states around the world continue to converge, threatening the rules-based international order, and they now present a collective challenge to the peace and stability of the entire first island chain. To address threats, whether natural disasters or ambitions for authoritarian expansion, we believe that as long as the government and all of society are prepared, we can respond. With determination, there is no need to worry. With confidence, our people can rest assured. This is the goal of whole-of-society defense resilience. Of course, these preparations are not easy. Taiwan’s society must race against time, and work together to build capabilities to respond to major disasters and threats, and deter enemy encroachment. Therefore, the goal of this committee is to formulate action plans through the five key areas: civilian force training and utilization, strategic material preparation and critical supply distribution, energy and critical infrastructure operations and maintenance, social welfare, medical care, and evacuation facility readiness, and information, transportation, and financial network protection, thereby verifying central and local government capacities to respond in times of disaster, and enhance overall resilience in terms of national defense, economic livelihoods, disaster prevention, and democracy. This morning at the Presidential Office, we conducted the first-ever cross-disciplinary tabletop exercises involving central and local government officials as well as civilian observers. Participating teams from central government departments were all led by deputy ministers, Tainan City Deputy Mayor Yeh Tse-shan (葉澤山) led a team, and Tainan Mayor Huang Wei-che (黃偉哲) also came to participate, demonstrating cooperation between central and local governments to jointly enhance social resilience. The exercises were based on Taiwan’s mature disaster prevention and relief system’s response to comprehensive threats. We had scenarios, but no scripts, so the participating units did not prepare notes in advance, but reacted on the spot. When presented with a problem, they proposed countermeasures, which is closer to a real crisis situation. To address the continued threat of authoritarian expansion to regional stability and order, in the first scenario we simulated that a high-intensity gray-zone operation occurred; in the second scenario, we simulated a state of being on the verge of conflict. The most important core objectives of the exercises were to ensure that people could carry on their daily lives and that society could function normally. I would like to thank our three deputy conveners for serving as exercise commanders, Minister of the Interior Liu Shyh-fang (劉世芳) and Minister without Portfolio of the Executive Yuan Chi Lien-cheng (季連成) for serving as deputy exercise commanders, and Deputy Secretary-General to the President Chang Tun-han (張惇涵) as well as National Security Council Deputy Secretary-General Lin Fei-fan (林飛帆) for serving as chief officials. I also want to thank all our advisors, committee members, and colleagues from government agencies at both the central and local levels for coming together to complete tabletop exercises aimed at testing out components of the five key areas. After conducting numerous exercises in the past, many government agencies improved their emergency response capabilities, and I want to recognize those achievements. However, I also want to emphasize that we must identify problems in our current systems, and then make improvements. Whether it be the central or the local level, we cannot just talk about the good things and sweep the unpleasant things under the rug. We have to rigorously ascertain numbers and make sure just how accurate the sources of our information are, because it is always a good thing when we discover problems in our exercises, and find places where improvements are needed. This means that our testing has achieved its purpose, and that there is much room for progress and improvement. I also want to report to you all that, over the past few years, due to the global pandemic and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, countries throughout the world have been bolstering their defense resilience. NATO and the European Union, for example, have both adopted guidelines aimed at strengthening whole-of-society resilience. This shows that Taiwan is not a special case. The task of whole-of-society defense resilience is being addressed throughout the world. Taiwan’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its whole-of-society defense resilience is something the international community at large is wanting to see. This month I visited the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and the Republic of Palau, all of which are Pacific allies of Taiwan, and I made transit stops in the United States islands of Hawaii and Guam. Friends in each of these places expressed firm support for Taiwan and repeatedly said they hope for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. We must continue taking action to respond to the international community’s support. Taiwan must have the capability to defend its own security. As president, I want to take this opportunity to emphasize to the international community that Taiwan is determined to defend regional peace and stability. We will accelerate the pace of efforts to build a more resilient Taiwan. I therefore wish to announce that our existing Wan An and Min An Exercises, which are air raid drills and disaster response drills, respectively, beginning from next year will be combined, and we will hold the 2025 Urban Resilience Exercises. This new nomenclature matches up with that of similar exercises carried out overseas, making it easier for others to understand the efforts that Taiwan is putting forth. In addition, the 2025 Urban Resilience Exercises will feature absolutely no reliance on military support, and will have a design that takes the latest international experiences into account. These resilience exercises will be distinct from the Han Kuang military exercises, and yet complementary at the same time. In other words, whole-of-society defense resilience must particularly strengthen the defensive mechanisms of the non-military sector, and must verify the ability of civil defense and disaster preparedness systems to protect our nation’s people. I want to emphasize once again that the more resilient we make Taiwan, like-minded nations around the world will be more willing to coordinate with us in responding to various challenges together. I realize that to defend democracy, we must gather together every bit of strength we have. The task of promoting whole-of-society defense resilience is a massive undertaking. The public sector must adopt a more open-minded attitude and be willing to tap into private-sector human resources, because combining government and private-sector forces is the only way to jointly respond to challenges arising under extreme conditions, and is the only way to strengthen Taiwan’s overall defense capabilities, jointly consolidate global democratic resilience, and maintain regional peace and stability. In just a few moments, Minister Liu will deliver a report on the progress of certain items listed in the first committee meeting, and Deputy Secretary-General Lin will deliver a report on the outcomes of the tabletop exercises held this morning. Next, let us engage in open discussions and examine and verify each component of the tabletop exercises, so that together we can improve whole-of-society defense resilience, make Taiwan more secure, and make the region more stable. Thank you. After listening to the report on the progress of certain items listed in the first committee meeting and the report on the outcomes of the tabletop exercises, President Lai exchanged views with the committee members regarding the content of the reports.123

    Details
    2024-11-30
    Presidential Office thanks Biden administration for announcing its 18th military sale to Taiwan
    On November 29 (US EST), the United States government announced that it had notified Congress of the sale to Taiwan of two military packages: a US$320 million sale of spare parts and support for F-16 aircraft and Active Electronically Scanned Array radar spare parts and support; and a US$65 million sale of Improved Mobile Subscriber Equipment Follow-on Support and related equipment. Presidential Office Spokesperson Karen Kuo (郭雅慧) stated that the Presidential Office is sincerely grateful to the US government for its unwavering commitment to continue to strengthen the cooperative partnership between Taiwan and the US and support Taiwan in enhancing self-defense capabilities in accordance with the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances.  Spokesperson Kuo stated that this marks the 18th military sale to Taiwan announced during the Biden administration since 2021, emphasizing that the deepening Taiwan-US security partnership is a critical cornerstone for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. The spokesperson said that in the face of mounting security challenges in the region, Taiwan will continue to enhance self-defense capabilities and work alongside like-minded countries to jointly defend the values of freedom and democracy and ensure the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific region.

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

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Construction, IT, retail: Moscow doubles career start opportunities for job seekers without work experience

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Center for Innovative HR Services “Professions of the Future” offers more than three thousand paid internships for young Muscovites and job seekers without work experience. This year, the number of offers has increased by 50 percent compared to last year. This was reported by Anastasia Rakova, Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Social Development.

    “We continue to develop a system in which the capital acts as a link between business and young people. This work is carried out by our flagship personnel center “Professions of the Future”, whose partners are leading employers of Moscow. This year, we increased the number of paid internships for young Muscovites and applicants without experience by 50 percent – today, over three thousand positions in IT, industry and other key sectors are available to them. This is an excellent opportunity for residents to get acquainted with the specifics of the company’s activities, gain practical skills, immerse themselves in the corporate culture and earn their first money. At the same time, interns can not only get a guaranteed path to employment, but also count on a decent salary at the start. For example, in construction, engineers starting their careers can earn up to 140 thousand rubles,” said Anastasia Rakova.

    Career mentors at the Professions of the Future center will help you find a suitable paid internship option. They will tell you how to write a resume and cover letter, and will also prepare you for an interview. In addition, the center hosts career festivals and meetings with employers. Leading companies and organizations offer Muscovites pre-graduation internship programs and current vacancies. With such a systematic approach, it becomes easier for beginning specialists to take the first step toward employment and a career.

    The leaders in the number of internships are companies in the field of information technology and telecommunications, as well as wholesale and retail trade. IT companies are looking for programmers, developers, analysts, testers, and retail needs sales managers and customer service managers, sales consultants, as well as marketing managers and Internet marketers. The duration of internships varies from three to 12 months, the average salary reaches 90 thousand rubles.

    There are also paid internships in the financial sector and manufacturing companies. Banks need auditor assistants and analysts, and companies need carpenter apprentices and CNC machine operators. The average salary is about 90 thousand rubles.

    Young specialists are also expected in the construction, creative industry, catering, housing and utilities sectors. Companies need design engineers, project engineers, waiters, bartenders, baristas, cooks, bakers, confectioners, designers, speech therapists, educators, packers and order pickers. The average salary in the construction sector is 140 thousand rubles, in the creative industry and housing and utilities sector – 70 thousand rubles, in the catering sector – 90 thousand rubles.

    The Moscow City Employment Service is the largest state personnel operator that helps residents of the capital find work. Its structure includes employment offices, many of which are located in the My Documents government service centers. The flagship centers are open at the following addresses: Kuusinen Street, Building 2, Building 1, and Shabolovka Street, Building 48. The specialized employment center My Career is located on Sergiya Radonezhskogo Street (Building 1, Building 1).

    At the Professions of the Future center (38 Shchepkina Street, Building 1), you can master one of 75 in-demand professions in various sectors of the economy in a maximum of three and a half months. Career mentors will help you find a job after completing your training. The center’s partners include more than three thousand employers. In addition, a comprehensive career guidance program is being implemented here for ninth-grade students.

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channelthe city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155910073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: 1 in 3 Tuvaluans is bidding for a new ‘climate visa’ to Australia – here’s why everyone may ultimately end up applying

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jane McAdam, Scientia Professor and ARC Laureate Fellow, Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law, UNSW Sydney

    Photo by Fiona Goodall/Getty Images for Lumix

    In just four days, one-third of the population of Tuvalu entered a ballot for a new permanent visa to Australia.

    This world-first visa will enable up to 280 Tuvaluans to move permanently to Australia each year, from a current population of about 10,000. The visa is open to anyone who wants to work, study or live in Australia. Unlike other visa schemes for Pacific peoples, a job offer in Australia is not required.

    While the visa itself doesn’t mention climate change, the treaty that created it is framed in the context of the “existential threat posed by climate change”. That’s why when it was announced, I described it as the world’s first bilateral agreement on climate mobility.

    The Australian government, too, has called it “the first agreement of its kind anywhere in the world, providing a pathway for mobility with dignity as climate impacts worsen”.

    The high number of ballot applications may come as a surprise to many, especially given there were multiple concerns within Tuvalu when the treaty was first announced. Even so, some analysts predicted all Tuvaluans would apply eventually, to keep their options open.

    Tuvalu is one of the world’s smallest countries, covering just 26 square kilometres.
    Hao Hsiang Chen, Shutterstock

    Grabbing the chance

    The visa highlights the importance of creating opportunities for people to move in the context of climate change and disasters. The dangers of rising sea levels are clearly apparent, including coastal flooding, storm damage and water supplies. But there is a lot more at play here.

    For many, especially young families, this will be seen as a chance for education and skills training in Australia. Giving people choices about if, when and where they move is empowering and enables them to make informed decisions about their own lives.

    For the government of Tuvalu, the new visa is also about shoring up the economy. Migration is now a structural component of many Pacific countries’ economies.

    The money migrants send back to their home countries to support their families and communities is known as remittances. In 2023, remittances comprised 28% of GDP in Samoa and nearly 42% of GDP in Tonga – the highest in the world. Currently, Tuvalu sits at 3.2%.

    A long time coming

    Well before climate change became an issue of concern, Tuvalu had been lobbying Australia for special visa pathways. Demographic pressures, combined with limited livelihood and educational opportunities, made it a live policy issue throughout the 1980s and ‘90s. In 1984, a review of Australia’s foreign aid program suggested improved migration opportunities for Tuvaluans may be the most useful form of assistance.

    By the early 2000s, the focus had shifted to the existential threats posed by climate change. In 2006, as then-shadow environment minister, Anthony Albanese released a policy discussion paper called Our Drowning Neighbours. It proposed that Australia create Pacific migration pathways as part of a neighbourly response. In 2009, a spokesperson for Penny Wong, then minister for climate change, stated permanent migration might eventually be the only option for some Pacific peoples.

    When combined with other Pacific pathways to Australia and New Zealand, nearly 4% of the population could migrate each year. This is “an extraordinarily high level”, according to one expert. Within a decade, close to 40% of the population could have moved – although some people may return home or go backwards and forwards.

    How will the new arrivals be received?

    The real test of the new visa’s success will be how people are treated when they arrive in Australia.

    Will they be helped to adjust to life here, or will they feel isolated and shut out? Will they be able to find work and training, or will they find themselves in insecure and uncertain circumstances? Will they feel a loss of cultural connection, or will they be able to maintain cultural traditions within the growing Tuvaluan diaspora?

    Ensuring sound and culturally appropriate settlement services are in place will be crucial. These would ideally be co-developed with members of the Tuvaluan community, to “centralise Tuvaluan culture and values, in order to ensure ongoing dialogue and trust”.

    It has been suggested by experts that a “liaison officer with Tuvaluan cultural expertise and language skills could assist in facilitating activities such as post-arrival programs”, for instance.

    Learning from experience

    There are also many important lessons to be learned from the migration of Tuvaluans to New Zealand, to reduce the risk of newcomers experiencing economic and social hardship.

    Ongoing monitoring and refinement of the scheme will also be key. It should involve the Tuvaluan diaspora, communities back in Tuvalu, service providers in Australia, as well as federal, state/territory and local governments.

    By freeing up resources and alleviating stress on what is already a fragile atoll environment, migration may enable some people to remain in Tuvalu for longer, supported by remittances and extended family networks abroad.

    As some experts have suggested, money sent home from overseas could be used to make families less vulnerable to climate change. It might help them buy rainwater tanks or small boats, or improve internet and other communications. Remittances are also beneficial when they are invested in services that lift the level of education of children or boost social capital.

    Australia is offering ‘climate visas’ to 280 residents of Tuvalu (10 News First)

    Delaying a mass exodus

    It is difficult to know when a tipping point might be reached. For instance, some have warned that if too few people remain in Tuvalu, this could constrain development by limiting the availability of labour and skills. A former president of Kiribati, Teburoro Tito, once told me migration was “a double-edged sword”. While it could help people secure employment overseas and remit money, “the local economy, the local setup, also has to have enough skilled people” – otherwise it’s counterproductive.

    With visas capped at 280 a year – and scope to adjust the numbers if concerns arise – we are still a long way from that point. Right now, the new visa provides a safety net to ensure people have choices about how they respond to climate change. With the visa ballot open until July 18, many more people may yet apply.



    Read more:
    Fresh details emerge on Australia’s new climate migration visa for Tuvalu residents. An expert explains

    Jane McAdam receives funding from the Australian Research Council (ARC) and is the Director of the ARC Evacuations Research Hub at the Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law, UNSW Sydney.

    – ref. 1 in 3 Tuvaluans is bidding for a new ‘climate visa’ to Australia – here’s why everyone may ultimately end up applying – https://theconversation.com/1-in-3-tuvaluans-is-bidding-for-a-new-climate-visa-to-australia-heres-why-everyone-may-ultimately-end-up-applying-259990

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: 1 in 3 Tuvaluans is bidding for a new ‘climate visa’ to Australia – here’s why everyone may ultimately end up applying

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jane McAdam, Scientia Professor and ARC Laureate Fellow, Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law, UNSW Sydney

    Photo by Fiona Goodall/Getty Images for Lumix

    In just four days, one-third of the population of Tuvalu entered a ballot for a new permanent visa to Australia.

    This world-first visa will enable up to 280 Tuvaluans to move permanently to Australia each year, from a current population of about 10,000. The visa is open to anyone who wants to work, study or live in Australia. Unlike other visa schemes for Pacific peoples, a job offer in Australia is not required.

    While the visa itself doesn’t mention climate change, the treaty that created it is framed in the context of the “existential threat posed by climate change”. That’s why when it was announced, I described it as the world’s first bilateral agreement on climate mobility.

    The Australian government, too, has called it “the first agreement of its kind anywhere in the world, providing a pathway for mobility with dignity as climate impacts worsen”.

    The high number of ballot applications may come as a surprise to many, especially given there were multiple concerns within Tuvalu when the treaty was first announced. Even so, some analysts predicted all Tuvaluans would apply eventually, to keep their options open.

    Tuvalu is one of the world’s smallest countries, covering just 26 square kilometres.
    Hao Hsiang Chen, Shutterstock

    Grabbing the chance

    The visa highlights the importance of creating opportunities for people to move in the context of climate change and disasters. The dangers of rising sea levels are clearly apparent, including coastal flooding, storm damage and water supplies. But there is a lot more at play here.

    For many, especially young families, this will be seen as a chance for education and skills training in Australia. Giving people choices about if, when and where they move is empowering and enables them to make informed decisions about their own lives.

    For the government of Tuvalu, the new visa is also about shoring up the economy. Migration is now a structural component of many Pacific countries’ economies.

    The money migrants send back to their home countries to support their families and communities is known as remittances. In 2023, remittances comprised 28% of GDP in Samoa and nearly 42% of GDP in Tonga – the highest in the world. Currently, Tuvalu sits at 3.2%.

    A long time coming

    Well before climate change became an issue of concern, Tuvalu had been lobbying Australia for special visa pathways. Demographic pressures, combined with limited livelihood and educational opportunities, made it a live policy issue throughout the 1980s and ‘90s. In 1984, a review of Australia’s foreign aid program suggested improved migration opportunities for Tuvaluans may be the most useful form of assistance.

    By the early 2000s, the focus had shifted to the existential threats posed by climate change. In 2006, as then-shadow environment minister, Anthony Albanese released a policy discussion paper called Our Drowning Neighbours. It proposed that Australia create Pacific migration pathways as part of a neighbourly response. In 2009, a spokesperson for Penny Wong, then minister for climate change, stated permanent migration might eventually be the only option for some Pacific peoples.

    When combined with other Pacific pathways to Australia and New Zealand, nearly 4% of the population could migrate each year. This is “an extraordinarily high level”, according to one expert. Within a decade, close to 40% of the population could have moved – although some people may return home or go backwards and forwards.

    How will the new arrivals be received?

    The real test of the new visa’s success will be how people are treated when they arrive in Australia.

    Will they be helped to adjust to life here, or will they feel isolated and shut out? Will they be able to find work and training, or will they find themselves in insecure and uncertain circumstances? Will they feel a loss of cultural connection, or will they be able to maintain cultural traditions within the growing Tuvaluan diaspora?

    Ensuring sound and culturally appropriate settlement services are in place will be crucial. These would ideally be co-developed with members of the Tuvaluan community, to “centralise Tuvaluan culture and values, in order to ensure ongoing dialogue and trust”.

    It has been suggested by experts that a “liaison officer with Tuvaluan cultural expertise and language skills could assist in facilitating activities such as post-arrival programs”, for instance.

    Learning from experience

    There are also many important lessons to be learned from the migration of Tuvaluans to New Zealand, to reduce the risk of newcomers experiencing economic and social hardship.

    Ongoing monitoring and refinement of the scheme will also be key. It should involve the Tuvaluan diaspora, communities back in Tuvalu, service providers in Australia, as well as federal, state/territory and local governments.

    By freeing up resources and alleviating stress on what is already a fragile atoll environment, migration may enable some people to remain in Tuvalu for longer, supported by remittances and extended family networks abroad.

    As some experts have suggested, money sent home from overseas could be used to make families less vulnerable to climate change. It might help them buy rainwater tanks or small boats, or improve internet and other communications. Remittances are also beneficial when they are invested in services that lift the level of education of children or boost social capital.

    Australia is offering ‘climate visas’ to 280 residents of Tuvalu (10 News First)

    Delaying a mass exodus

    It is difficult to know when a tipping point might be reached. For instance, some have warned that if too few people remain in Tuvalu, this could constrain development by limiting the availability of labour and skills. A former president of Kiribati, Teburoro Tito, once told me migration was “a double-edged sword”. While it could help people secure employment overseas and remit money, “the local economy, the local setup, also has to have enough skilled people” – otherwise it’s counterproductive.

    With visas capped at 280 a year – and scope to adjust the numbers if concerns arise – we are still a long way from that point. Right now, the new visa provides a safety net to ensure people have choices about how they respond to climate change. With the visa ballot open until July 18, many more people may yet apply.



    Read more:
    Fresh details emerge on Australia’s new climate migration visa for Tuvalu residents. An expert explains

    Jane McAdam receives funding from the Australian Research Council (ARC) and is the Director of the ARC Evacuations Research Hub at the Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law, UNSW Sydney.

    – ref. 1 in 3 Tuvaluans is bidding for a new ‘climate visa’ to Australia – here’s why everyone may ultimately end up applying – https://theconversation.com/1-in-3-tuvaluans-is-bidding-for-a-new-climate-visa-to-australia-heres-why-everyone-may-ultimately-end-up-applying-259990

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: Pioneering Payment Innovation: How Bitget Wallet is Exploring QR Code Integration for Web3

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, June 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget Wallet, the leading non-custodial Web3 wallet, is advancing its PayFi initiative by exploring the integration of QR code technology into decentralized payment systems. This ongoing research marks a significant step in demonstrating how self-custodial wallets can bridge the gap between traditional financial infrastructure and the decentralized world of Web3.

    As blockchain adoption expands, integrating crypto payments into familiar systems remains a challenge. Bitget Wallet’s PayFi initiative is exploring how widely used QR code systems, known for their simplicity and mobile compatibility, can be adapted for decentralized use. The goal is to deliver a crypto payment experience that feels familiar while embracing the future of Web3.

    “QR code payments are the most natural bridge between today’s habits and tomorrow’s financial systems,” said Jamie Elkaleh, CMO of Bitget Wallet. “Our work on PayFi is about more than just enabling transactions — it’s about designing a user-first experience that makes decentralized payments feel second nature.”

    Adoption trends in Southeast Asia underscore the power of QR code infrastructure to drive financial inclusion. In Vietnam, QR payments surged 170% year-over-year in 2023, led by VietQR and major e-wallets like MoMo, ZaloPay, and Viettel Money. Meanwhile, the Philippines has seen rapid growth through its national QR Ph standard, now accepted by over 2.5 million merchants and supported by leading platforms GCash and Maya. These examples highlight the scalability and user familiarity of QR systems—making them an ideal foundation for bridging Web2 and Web3 payments.

    Bitget Wallet’s PayFi initiative is focused on exploring how QR-based transactions can function securely within a self-custodial wallet environment. This includes analyzing regional QR payment standards, examining their interoperability with decentralized protocols, and assessing the infrastructure and compliance requirements needed for scalable integration. Still in its early research phase, the project is centered on developing internal proofs of concept and collaborating with external partners to refine the technology. Bitget Wallet is taking a deliberate approach—prioritizing deep understanding and responsible development over rapid deployment, to contribute meaningfully to the evolving Web3 and fintech ecosystems.

    Bitget Wallet’s focus has always been on creating tools that empower users in a rapidly evolving financial landscape. With PayFi, the goal is to transform complex backend interactions into seamless user experiences—enabling everyday transactions like retail purchases, peer-to-peer payments, or service subscriptions to be completed directly from a self-custodial wallet.

    The integration of QR code capabilities represents more than just a technical upgrade. It reflects a deeper shift toward building payment systems that are inclusive, interoperable, and rooted in user ownership. As Bitget Wallet continues this work, it remains focused on shaping meaningful standards and solutions that can serve both the Web3 community and broader financial ecosystems. In a future where decentralized and traditional systems coexist, Bitget Wallet’s PayFi initiative offers a glimpse into what that reality might look like—where paying with crypto can be as easy as scanning a code.

    For more information, visit Bitget Wallet academy.

    About Bitget Wallet
    Bitget Wallet is a non-custodial crypto wallet designed to make crypto simple and secure for everyone. With over 80 million users, it brings together a full suite of crypto services, including swaps, market insights, staking, rewards, DApp exploration, and payment solutions. Supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens, Bitget Wallet enables seamless multi-chain trading across hundreds of DEXs and cross-chain bridges. Backed by a $300+ million user protection fund, it ensures the highest level of security for users’ assets. Its vision is Crypto for Everyone — to make crypto simpler, safer, and part of everyday life for a billion people.
    For more information, visit: X | Telegram | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn | TikTok | Discord | Facebook
    For media inquiries, contact media.web3@bitget.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/234abb0f-2dc1-49d1-9f59-fe35e1caed20

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Committee on Women Concerned About Budget for National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide


    Download logo

    The Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities met this week to receive a briefing on the funding of the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, the appointment of the National Youth Development Agency Board (NYDA) and the department’s Strategic Plan for 2025-2030 and annual performance plan for the 2025/26 financial year.

    During the committee meeting, members raised serious concerns about the allocated budget of about R5 million for the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide. The committee noted that this amount was insufficient to meet the comprehensive needs of the Council and the scale of the challenges the Council aims to address.

    Emphasising the importance of sustainable funding, the Chairperson of the committee, Ms Liezl van der Merwe, said, “It is imperative that we advocate for a budget that reflects the significance of this issue. The Council must be adequately funded to fulfil its mandate.”

    Members also wanted to know how the budget would be used for staffing and operational costs. The department informed the members that discussions with National Treasury are ongoing. The department also assured the committee that it is committed to ensuring the Council has the resources it needs to develop and implement programmes to combat gender-based violence.

    The committee was also concerned about the effectiveness of the Sanitary Dignity Framework – a policy aimed at preserving and maintaining the dignity of indigent girls and women during menstruation. “The framework is fragmented and not functioning effectively,” the Chairperson said. “It requires a thorough review to ensure that the funds allocated are spent appropriately.” The committee was also concerned provinces often misallocated the funds they receive for the sanitary dignity programme and highlighted the need for robust oversight to hold provinces accountable.

    Tomorrow (27 June), the committee will receive a briefing from the National Youth Development Agency on its strategic plan and annual performance plan for the 2025/26 financial year.

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

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: President Of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Bank Congratulates Sierra’s President Julius Maada Bio On His Election As Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Chairman, Assures ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID)’s Full Support For His Developmental Agenda


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    Dr. George Agyekum Donkor, President of the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID), has extended heartfelt congratulations to President Julius Maada Bio on his recent election as Chairman of ECOWAS Authority. In a congratulatory letter, Dr. Donkor emphasized that the election reflects the sub-region’s strong confidence in President Bio’s leadership. He also commended the President’s proven governance record and expressed optimism that his leadership will effectively tackle pressing regional issues such as economic growth, peace, and security throughout West Africa.

    The ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) stands as a premier financial institution dedicated to advancing economic progress across West Africa. Based in Lomé, Togo, EBID finances critical sectors including infrastructure, agriculture, energy, and small to medium enterprises (SMEs). The Bank is instrumental in promoting regional integration, strengthening the private sector, and reducing poverty within ECOWAS member countries.

    During the 67th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government in Abuja, Dr. Donkor also engaged in a productive discussion with President Bio. He reaffirmed EBID’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s developmental priorities and lauded President Bio’s leadership. Dr. Donkor pledged to explore potential areas of collaboration between EBID and Sierra Leone.

    President Bio’s new role as ECOWAS Chairman highlights Sierra Leone’s expanding influence in regional affairs and represents a pivotal achievement for the nation. His tenure is expected to focus on fostering sustainable economic development, empowering communities, and revitalizing cultural heritage across West Africa.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Sierra Leone.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation Participates in High-Level Session on “Belt and Road Initiative” during World Economic Forum (WEF) Meetings in China


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    H.E. Dr. Rania A. Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, participated in the high-level discussion session titled “Where is the Belt and Road in 2025?” during her role as a co-chair of the World Economic Forum meetings, held from June 23-26, 2025, under the theme “Resilient Economic Policies to Keep Up with Global Change” in Tianjin, China.

    The event saw high-level participation from policymakers, private sector leaders, and entrepreneurs from over 90 countries.

    During her speech, H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat pointed out that international partnerships are always built on shared and mutual interests, adding that the large number of countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative reflects its importance. She noted the celebration last year of the 10th anniversary of the initiative’s launch, where participating countries showcased projects being implemented under the Belt and Road Initiative, which supported sustainable infrastructure in areas such as transport, renewable energy, and ports.

    H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat added that each of these projects reflects the national priorities of the countries, and for Egypt, the projects were consistent with the national agenda and strategic goals of the state.

    Regarding the stimulating factors contributing to accelerating the implementation of these projects, H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat outlined that the Belt and Road Initiative has been a real catalyst in many cases for advancing national strategies. She pointed to the emergence of a number of national and international initiatives that integrate with and support the Belt and Road Initiative in the recent period, noting that China launched the Global Development Initiative several years ago, and many projects implemented under that initiative run in parallel with and support Belt and Road projects.

    H.E. Minister Al-Mashat also mentioned the issue of financing, explaining that much of the funding directed to these projects came through development finance. She highlighted that, with regard to sustainable transport and renewable energy projects in Egypt, there is a significant mobilization of resources towards the private sector, including low-cost development finance that has contributed to advancing investments.

    Regarding relations between Egypt and China, H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat stated that the historic visit of the Chinese President to Egypt in 2014 was an important starting point in Egyptian-Chinese relations, followed by the signing of MoU on the Belt and Road Initiative. She noted that relations between the two countries are based on two main aspects: the first relates to investments, with Chinese companies investing in Egypt, and the second is development cooperation between the two governments.

    Regarding development cooperation, H.E. Minister Al-Mashat indicated that it includes projects in multiple fields such as health, satellites, and capacity building, noting the role of the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA) in supporting Egypt’s development agenda, in addition to China signing a debt swap agreement several years ago. She added that Egyptian-Chinese relations are also based on investment and trade, pointing to a large number of Chinese companies within the China-Egypt Suez Economic and Trade Cooperation Zone in Egypt, where more than 150 companies operate, providing over 10,000 job opportunities, with diverse activities across multiple sectors.

    H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat reiterated that the Belt and Road Initiative does not impose a specific plan on countries; it is not an initiative based on a centralized blueprint that obliges each country to a specific path or project. Instead, it is a flexible framework that adapts to the priorities of each individual country.

    Regarding the issue of financing, H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat referred to the “4th Financing for Development” conference to be held in Seville on June 30, a UN conference held every ten years focusing on ways to finance development in developing and emerging economies. She explained that one of the most prominent messages of this conference is that the world needs to reduce reliance on debt and increase the mobilization of resources from the private sector to finance development projects.

    H.E. Minister Al-Mashat added that each country has full ownership in designing its projects, in line with its national vision, to then include these projects within the broader framework of the Belt and Road Initiative. Furthermore, the cost of implementing these projects represents a common challenge and has been a strongly debated issue on the global stage for years, requiring innovative solutions and multiple sources of financing. She noted that, concerning debt, there are many international initiatives aimed at addressing this issue, including “debt-for-development and investment swaps” mechanisms.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation – Egypt.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI China: Athletic Club ask LaLiga if Barcelona able to sign Williams

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

    Athletic Club and FC Barcelona are in open conflict over Barca’s attempts to sign Spain international winger Nico Williams.

    Barcelona is trying to sign Williams for the second consecutive summer, but with Athletic unwilling to negotiate the sale of their star player, Barca’s only option is to trigger his release clause, reportedly set at 58 million euros (68 million U.S. dollars).

    Nico Williams (R) of Spain shoots during the UEFA European Championship 2024 Qualifying group round match between Spain and Cyprus in Granada, Spain, on Sept. 12, 2023. (Photo by Gustavo Valient/Xinhua)

    Barca has struggled to comply with La Liga’s strict financial fair-play rules. Dani Olmo was only cleared to play after the club appealed to Spain’s Superior Sports Committee, and it remains unclear whether the club is now in a financial position to register new signings without first offloading players.

    Athletic was angered by an interview Barcelona sporting director Deco gave to La Vanguardia earlier this week, in which he openly discussed Williams, claiming the player had informed Athletic of his desire to join Barcelona.

    In response, Athletic asked both La Liga and the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) to examine Barca’s financial situation – a move that angered Barcelona president Joan Laporta, who told local press that Athletic should “mind its business.”

    Athletic president Jon Uriarte met with La Liga president Javier Tebas on Wednesday, and the club confirmed Thursday that Barca’s “ability to sign players” was among the topics discussed.

    “The meeting was held in Madrid in response to a request from Athletic Club made within the framework of compliance with financial fair play. Among the topics discussed was FC Barcelona’s ability to sign players,” confirmed the Athletic website.

    The club also responded to Laporta’s remarks, saying it was defending its “legitimate interest… after FC Barcelona sporting director Anderson Luis de Souza ‘Deco’ publicly acknowledged that they will attempt to sign a player from our first team. This player has a contract with Athletic Club until June 30, 2027. Our job is to ensure that the rules of the competition are followed.”

    Athletic further noted that Deco’s comments follow Laporta’s own admission that Barca “is working to comply with the 1:1 rule” – the regulation that allows clubs to spend income from player sales – and, therefore, the club is not currently meeting the conditions to register new players.

    The pro-Barca press insists the club will sign Williams next week, but the saga looks set to continue throughout the summer. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: InvestHK hosts inaugural Low Altitude Economy Forum – government, industry, academia and research join forces to drive development of Hong Kong’s low-altitude innovation ecosystem (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) today (June 27) hosted the inaugural Hong Kong Low Altitude Economy Forum themed “Dream to the Sky”. The forum brought together leaders from government, industry, academia and research sectors to explore policy direction, technological development and application prospects of the low-altitude economy (LAE). Topics discussed included regulatory frameworks, cross-boundary collaboration and infrastructure support, showcasing Hong Kong’s progress in innovation and new industrial development. The forum attracted over 250 local and international stakeholders.

    The LAE is one of the key policy initiatives announced in the “The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address”. The Working Group on Developing Low-altitude Economy was established under the leadership of the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong, to promote institutional innovation, technology implementation, and industry ecosystem building.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: NBPE – May Monthly Net Asset Value Estimate

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN OR INTO AUSTRALIA, CANADA, ITALY, DENMARK, JAPAN, THE UNITED STATES, OR TO ANY NATIONAL OF SUCH JURISDICTIONS

    NBPE Announces May Monthly NAV Estimate

    St Peter Port, Guernsey 27 June 2025

    NB Private Equity Partners (NBPE), the $1.2bn1, FTSE 250, listed private equity investment company managed by Neuberger Berman, today announces its 31 May 2025 monthly NAV estimate.

    NAV Highlights (31 May 2025)

    • NAV per share was $27.24 (£20.20), a total return of (0.2%) in the month
    • Approximately 98% of fair value based on private company valuation information as of Q1 2025 or based on 31 May 2025 quoted prices
    • Based on information received, private company valuations decreased in fair value by (0.4%) during Q1 2025 on a constant currency basis
    • $285 million of available liquidity at 31 May 2025
    • ~51k shares repurchased (~$1 million) during May 2025 at a weighted average discount of 30% which was accretive to NAV by ~$0.01 per share. Year-to-date, NBPE has repurchased ~738k shares (~$14 million) at a weighted average discount of 29% which was accretive to NAV by ~$0.11 per share
    As of 31 May 2025 Year to Date One Year 3 years 5 years 10 years
    NAV TR (USD)*
    Annualised    		 0.7% 2.5% 2.0%
    0.7%    		 85.8%
    13.2%    		 157.2%
    9.9%
    MSCI World TR (USD)*
    Annualised    		 5.2% 14.2% 47.1%
    13.7%    		 98.7%
    14.7%    		 171.5%
    10.5%
               
    Share price TR (GBP)*
    Annualised    		 (7.9%) (7.2%) 7.9%
    2.6%    		 102.0%
    15.1%    		 179.4%
    10.8%
    FTSE All-Share TR (GBP)*
    Annualised    		 4.1% 8.6% 26.8%
    9.4%    		 69.0%
    11.1%    		 80.7%
    6.1%

    * All NBPE performance figures assume re-investment of dividends on the ex-dividend date and reflect cumulative returns over the relevant time periods shown. Three-year, five-year and ten-year annualised returns are presented for USD NAV, MSCI World (USD), GBP Share Price and FTSE All-Share (GBP) Total Returns.

    Portfolio Update to 31 May 2025

    NAV performance during the month driven by:

    • 0.6% NAV decrease ($8 million) in the value of private holdings
    • 0.6% NAV increase ($8 million) attributable to changes in prices of quoted holdings (which now constitute 6% of portfolio fair value)
    • Immaterial impact on NAV from FX changes
    • 0.2% NAV decrease ($3 million) attributable to expense accruals

    $66 million of realisations in 2025 year to date

    • $8 million of proceeds received during the month of May

    $285 million of total liquidity at 31 May 2025

    • $75 million of cash and liquid investments with $210 million of undrawn credit line available

    2025 Share Buybacks

    • ~51k shares repurchased in May 2025 at a weighted average discount of 30%; buybacks were accretive to NAV by ~$0.01 per share
    • Year-to-date, NBPE has repurchased ~738k shares at a weighted average discount of 29% which were accretive to NAV by ~$0.11 per share

    Portfolio Valuation

    The fair value of NBPE’s portfolio as of 31 May 2025 was based on the following information:

    • 6% of the portfolio was valued as of 31 May 2025
      • 6% in public securities
    • 92% of the portfolio was valued as of 31 March 2025
      • 92% in private direct investments
    • 2% of the portfolio was valued as of 31 December 2024
      • 2% in private direct investments

    For further information, please contact:

    NBPE Investor Relations        +44 (0) 20 3214 9002
    Luke Mason        NBPrivateMarketsIR@nb.com  

    Kaso Legg Communications        +44 (0)20 3882 6644

    Charles Gorman        nbpe@kl-communications.com
    Luke Dampier
    Charlotte Francis

    Supplementary Information (as at 31 May 2025)

    Company Name Vintage Lead Sponsor Sector Fair Value ($m) % of FV
    Action 2020 3i Consumer 83.7 6.7%
    Osaic 2019 Reverence Capital Financial Services 65.5 5.2%
    Solenis 2021 Platinum Equity Industrials 59.8 4.8%
    BeyondTrust 2018 Francisco Partners Technology / IT 47.7 3.8%
    Monroe Engineering 2021 AEA Investors Industrials 44.7 3.6%
    Business Services Company* 2017 Not Disclosed Business Services 40.6 3.2%
    Branded Cities Network 2017 Shamrock Capital Communications / Media 37.4 3.0%
    True Potential 2022 Cinven Financial Services 34.4 2.7%
    Mariner 2024 Leonard Green & Partners Financial Services 33.7 2.7%
    FDH Aero 2024 Audax Group Industrials 32.9 2.6%
    Marquee Brands 2014 Neuberger Berman Consumer 31.6 2.5%
    GFL (NYSE: GFL) 2018 BC Partners Business Services 30.6 2.4%
    Auctane 2021 Thoma Bravo Technology / IT 29.1 2.3%
    Fortna 2017 THL Industrials 28.7 2.3%
    Staples 2017 Sycamore Partners Business Services 27.7 2.2%
    Viant 2018 JLL Partners Healthcare 27.3 2.2%
    Stubhub 2020 Neuberger Berman Consumer 26.4 2.1%
    Engineering 2020 NB Renaissance / Bain Capital Technology / IT 26.3 2.1%
    Agiliti 2019 THL Healthcare 25.3 2.0%
    Kroll 2020 Further Global / Stone Point Financial Services 25.0 2.0%
    Benecon 2024 TA Associates Healthcare 24.7 2.0%
    Solace Systems 2016 Bridge Growth Partners Technology / IT 24.6 2.0%
    Excelitas 2022 AEA Investors Industrials 24.1 1.9%
    Exact 2019 KKR Technology / IT 23.2 1.9%
    CH Guenther 2021 Pritzker Private Capital Consumer 21.2 1.7%
    Addison Group 2021 Trilantic Capital Partners Business Services 19.9 1.6%
    Constellation Automotive 2019 TDR Capital Business Services 19.5 1.6%
    Bylight 2017 Sagewind Partners Technology / IT 19.1 1.5%
    Tendam 2017 PAI Consumer 19.0 1.5%
    Real Page 2021 Thoma Bravo Technology / IT 18.8 1.5%
    Total Top 30 Investments                             $972.5 77.5%

    *Undisclosed company due to confidentiality provisions.

    Geography % of Portfolio
    North America 77%
    Europe 22%
    Asia / Rest of World 1%
    Total Portfolio 100%
       
    Industry % of Portfolio
    Tech, Media & Telecom 22%
    Consumer / E-commerce 22%
    Industrials / Industrial Technology 17%
    Financial Services 14%
    Business Services 11%
    Healthcare 9%
    Other 4%
    Energy 1%
    Total Portfolio 100%
       
    Vintage Year % of Portfolio
    2016 & Earlier 10%
    2017 16%
    2018 14%
    2019 14%
    2020 13%
    2021 18%
    2022 5%
    2023 2%
    2024 8%
    Total Portfolio 100%

    About NB Private Equity Partners Limited
    NBPE invests in direct private equity investments alongside market leading private equity firms globally. NB Alternatives Advisers LLC (the “Investment Manager”), an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Neuberger Berman Group LLC, is responsible for sourcing, execution and management of NBPE. The vast majority of direct investments are made with no management fee / no carried interest payable to third-party GPs, offering greater fee efficiency than other listed private equity companies. NBPE seeks capital appreciation through growth in net asset value over time while paying a bi-annual dividend.

    LEI number: 213800UJH93NH8IOFQ77

    About Neuberger Berman
    Neuberger Berman is an employee-owned, private, independent investment manager founded in 1939 with over 2,800 employees in 26 countries. The firm manages $515 billion of equities, fixed income, private equity, real estate and hedge fund portfolios for global institutions, advisors and individuals. Neuberger Berman’s investment philosophy is founded on active management, fundamental research and engaged ownership. Neuberger Berman has been named by Pensions & Investments as the #1 or #2 Best Place to Work in Money Management for each of the last eleven years (firms with more than 1,000 employees). Visit www.nb.com for more information. Data as of March 31, 2025.

    This press release appears as a matter of record only and does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any security.

    NBPE is established as a closed-end investment company domiciled in Guernsey. NBPE has received the necessary consent of the Guernsey Financial Services Commission. The value of investments may fluctuate. Results achieved in the past are no guarantee of future results. This document is not intended to constitute legal, tax or accounting advice or investment recommendations. Prospective investors are advised to seek expert legal, financial, tax and other professional advice before making any investment decision. Statements contained in this document that are not historical facts are based on current expectations, estimates, projections, opinions and beliefs of NBPE’s investment manager. Such statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, and undue reliance should not be placed thereon. Additionally, this document contains “forward-looking statements.” Actual events or results or the actual performance of NBPE may differ materially from those reflected or contemplated in such targets or forward-looking statements.

    1Based on net asset value.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Africa Unites to Take Stock of Disease Burden and Financial Needs towards Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD)s Elimination by 2030


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    Fifty African Union Member States have endorsed a ground-breaking digital micro-planning portal co-created by Africa CDC to accelerate the elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases — a diverse group of infectious diseases that primarily affect impoverished communities in tropical and subtropical areas.

    This innovative platform developed with inputs from Member States, World Health Organization (WHO), END Fund, and other technical partners will track resource utilisation, advocate for sustainable financing and domestic resource mobilisation, and drive Africa-owned solutions to end these diseases of poverty by 2030.

    Each Member State shared a country-specific micro-plan for the top six high-burden NTDs guided by existing national Masterplans. This continental NTD microplanning workshop, held from 17 to 20 June occurred in the context of the recent reduction in funding from key global partners, which has disrupted essential NTD programmes and exposed the vulnerabilities in current financing models.

    “Public health efforts across Africa are under threat, funding is among the challenges, noting that this makes the continued engagement and energy around NTD elimination even more commendable,” said Dr Raji Tajudeen, Africa CDC Acting Deputy Director General and Head, Division of Public Health Institutes and Research.

    Dr Dereje Duguma Gemeda, Ethiopian State Minister for Health said the workshop will help countries have a practical and data driven NTDs plan that will improve efforts to accelerate elimination efforts.

    Currently, “The African Region is endemic for 20 of the 21-priority neglected tropical diseases; affecting over 565 million people and comprising 35 per cent of the global disease burden,” said Dr Ibrahima Soce Fall – Global NTD Director at the WHO. These diseases lead to significant morbidity, including physical and visual impairments, severe malnutrition, chronic pain, disfigurement, stigma and mental health issues, and death,” he said.

    Common NTDs include Intestinal worms, lymphatic filariasis, river blindness, Schistosomiasis, trachoma, and Visceral leishmaniasis. This new approach of micro-planning is designed to drive integrated country and regional planning, streamline resource mobilisation, and enhance budget efficiency—minimising duplication and maximising impact—to accelerate the elimination of NTDs.

    “This situation underscores the urgent need for sustainable, country-owned solutions that leverage existing national capacities, optimize domestic resources, and identify key areas requiring targeted external investment,” said Dr Tajudeen.Member states and partners over the 4 days immersed opportunity for cross country experience sharing and planning are keen to find a financial solution for integrated multi-sectoral NTD elimination.

    “We stand at a critical juncture, not just for NTD elimination, but for rethinking health financing in Africa. Traditional reliance on foreign aid has demonstrated its limits. It’s time for collaborative, country-led financing strategies that harness catalytic opportunities from residual foreign assistance while boosting efficiency in programming and domestic resource mobilization,” said Dr Solomon Zewdu, CEO, The END fund.

    “This approach will drive the needed long-term sustainability and resilience. The END Fund is committed to being a trusted partner in this transformation, supporting governments and partners in developing co-financing models that deliver results and leave no community behind,” said Dr Zewdu.

    The meeting ensured countries have a comprehensive and costed country, and regional specific microplan for NTDs, identified country-specific technical assistance needs and detailed existing resources and partners within each member state to enhance collaboration and resource sharing.

    “The elimination of NTDs is more than a public health objective: it is a lever for development and a decisive step towards achieving the African Union’s Agenda 2063,” said Professor Julio Rakotonirina, Director for Health and Humanitarian Affairs, African Union Commission. “The development of the micro-plan is only the first step. Success will lie in national ownership, resource mobilization, and, above all, operationalization on the ground.”Africa CDC, The END Fund and partners solidified their partnership with the micro-planning platform to accelerate ending NTD’s by 2030.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s message on Micro-, Small-, and Medium-Sized Enterprises Day [scroll down for French version]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises are engines of economic activity, and lifelines for communities.

    Representing more than two-thirds of businesses worldwide, these enterprises are the backbone of economies, particularly in emerging markets. From mega-cities to remote villages, they create jobs, empower women and youth, and shape the fabric of everyday life. Their ingenuity fuels breakthrough solutions that benefit all of society.

    Yet these enterprises face persistent barriers including limited access to finance, markets, and technology. Many are often ignored or left behind in global value chains and policy discussions. Today they are also contending with new and cascading challenges – including trade disruptions, limited access to emerging technologies and artificial intelligence, conflict, and economic uncertainty. Often the first to suffer, they are also the most resilient, adapting and innovating in response.

    To unlock their full potential, we must invest in their success by increasing availability of affordable financing, opening market opportunities, and strengthening digital infrastructure and skills.

    Together, let us commit to unleash the transformative promise of micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises as drivers for sustainable development and innovation.

    ***

    Les microentreprises et les petites et moyennes entreprises jouent un rôle moteur pour l’activité économique et vital pour les populations.

    Représentant plus de deux tiers des entreprises dans le monde, ces entreprises constituent la clef de voûte des économies, en particulier dans les marchés émergents. Des mégapoles aux villages les plus isolés, elles créent des emplois, donnent aux femmes et aux jeunes les moyens de se prendre en charge et structurent la vie quotidienne. Leur ingéniosité produit des solutions révolutionnaires qui profitent à l’ensemble de la société.

    Pourtant, ces entreprises se heurtent à des obstacles persistants, notamment à un manque d’accès aux financements, aux marchés et à la technologie. Bien souvent, nombre d’entre elles sont oubliées ou laissées de côté dans les chaînes de valeur mondiales et les débats sur les politiques à mener. Aujourd’hui, elles se heurtent également à de nouveaux problèmes qui sont liés les uns aux autres (perturbations commerciales, accès limité aux technologies émergentes et à l’intelligence artificielle, conflits, incertitude économique). Souvent les premières touchées, elles sont aussi les plus résilientes car elles font face en s’adaptant et en innovant.

    Pour libérer tout leur potentiel, nous devons investir dans leur réussite en mettant à leur disposition davantage de moyens de financement d’un coût abordable, en ouvrant des débouchés commerciaux et en renforçant l’infrastructure numérique et les compétences.

    Ensemble, engageons-nous à faire en sorte que les microentreprises et les petites et moyennes entreprises tiennent toutes leurs promesses et soient porteuses de transformations en tant que moteurs du développement durable et de l’innovation.

    ***
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Albanese Government support for Austal’s United States expansion

    Source: Australian Attorney General’s Agencies

    The Albanese Government welcomes Export Finance Australia’s credit approved loan facility of up to US$150 million to shipbuilder Austal to help it expand its shipyard in Alabama in the United States.

    Austal is an Australian success story, and support from Export Finance Australia will help it to deliver on recently awarded major contracts for the US Navy and US Coast Guard.

    The expansion of Austal’s shipyard further deepens defence industrial cooperation with our key ally, the United States, and complements Australia’s investments into the sovereign industrial bases of AUKUS partners.

    The finance will help fund the development and construction of a new assembly facility, waterfront improvements and a new ship lift system.

    The expansion marks a major milestone for Austal, and it shows the strength of the Australian defence industry, its capabilities and support for our international partners.

    Export Finance Australia’s loan facility is subject to completion of finance documentation and satisfaction of conditions precedent.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Trade and Tourism, Senator the Hon Don Farrell:

    “The Albanese Government is backing Australian defence companies to grow and export their world-class capabilities by securing lucrative international contracts.

    “This financial support from Export Finance Australia is another example of how the Albanese Government is providing support to Aussie businesses to expand and grow overseas.

    “Austal’s expansion shows the strength of Australian businesses to export, invest and support shared Australian-US priorities such as defence.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Pat Conroy MP:

    “Austal’s investment into its United States shipyard demonstrates its commitment to support the United States’ domestic shipbuilding ambition and will deliver greater security and economic resilience for both Australia and the United States.

    “I visited Austal’s shipyard in Mobile, Alabama last year and witnessed firsthand its contribution to the submarine industrial base in the United States, including manufacturing components for Virginia class submarines.

    “In times of geopolitical uncertainty, closer defence industrial collaboration with our AUKUS partners will deliver major security and economic benefits.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Central African Republic faces a “delicate juncture” – Security Council Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (video statements)

    Security Council briefing by Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, on the situation in the Central African Republic.

    The Central African Republic faces a “delicate juncture,” UN peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix told the Security Council, warning that upcoming elections present both an opportunity and a challenge for the country’s fragile peace process.

    “The human rights situation in the Central African Republic remains concerning, with persistent violations and abuses, including conflict-related sexual violence and grave violations of children’s rights,” Lacroix said today (26 Jun).

    Despite the ongoing violence, Lacroix noted progress in accountability efforts. He highlighted the work of the Special Criminal Court (SCC), which recently delivered a verdict related to deadly clashes in Ndélé in 2020 between two factions of the Front populaire pour la renaissance de la Centrafrique (FPRC).

    “Progress has also been made in advancing judicial accountability, notably by the Special Criminal Court, which is playing a significant role in the fight against impunity and transitional justice,” Lacroix said. But he warned the Court is entering “a critical phase that requires reinforced financial and human resources to sustain and expand its activities.”

    Lacroix underscored that the upcoming local, legislative, and presidential elections are “a unique opportunity to strengthen democratic governance and advance national reconciliation,” but stressed that broad international support remains essential.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1uPEfz39sx4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Experts from the capital’s consumer portal gave recommendations for online shopping

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Online shopping has become an integral part of city residents’ lives. It can be done at any time of the day, it allows you to save time on going to the store, and also choose goods from a wider range and often at lower prices than in retail outlets. But despite the obvious advantages of distance selling, it also has disadvantages – often purchases are not delivered on time, and the quality of the purchased goods does not meet expectations. Experts capital consumer portalgave simple recommendations on what to pay attention to when shopping online, how to defend your rights and avoid falling for the tricks of scammers.

    “When choosing and paying for food, clothing, footwear or medicines on the websites of stores and marketplaces, a number of features should be taken into account. They are described in detail in the materials of the capital’s consumer portal. Step-by-step instructions are also published here to help return goods and protect consumer rights in the event of disputes. For the convenience of city residents, all thematic materials are collected in the “Remote Selling” section. In addition, you can quickly find the expert’s advice you need by entering a query in the search bar,” the press service of the capital said.

    Department of Information Technology.

    What You Need to Know About Online Trading

    The main feature of distance selling is that the buyer cannot examine the product in person before purchasing it. Therefore, the seller is obliged to provide information about its main consumer properties on their website, by phone or in other information materials (catalogs, brochures, photographs, etc.). In addition, the buyer must know the form and methods of filing claims, the procedure and terms for returning the product. You can read more about the nuances of online trading in of this publication.

    It happens that the delivered item does not look the same in reality as in the catalog on the store’s website or on the product card of the marketplace, or does not fit in color, appearance or size. This may apply to both shoes and clothes, as well as household goods. In this case, the consumer has the right to return a product of proper quality within seven days of receipt. It is important that the item retains its presentation and consumer properties. In this case, the seller may retain the costs of return shipping. And if the buyer receives a defective product, the seller is obliged to bear the costs of its transportation. Experts spoke about other details of the purchase return procedure in in this material.

    You can buy not only things online, but also over-the-counter medicines and dietary supplements (DS). However, buying these products requires a particularly careful approach to avoid possible risks. Thus, it is important to remember that the sale of drugs via the Internet is carried out by pharmacies that have had a license for at least one year and have the appropriate permission from the Federal Service for Surveillance in Healthcare. Individual entrepreneurs do not have the right to sell drugs online.

    When receiving medications, it is worth examining the packaging, checking its integrity and the presence of markings. And in order to safely purchase dietary supplements online, you need to make sure that the product has a state registration certificate. You can check this on the Rospotrebnadzor website in the section “Register of State Registration Certificates”. What else is important to pay attention to when buying medicines and dietary supplements online is explained in this expert article, and also in thematic video.

    How to protect your rights when shopping online

    You can encounter fraud and dishonesty of sellers in online trading on resources for posting ads. Experts advise using a simple algorithm of actions to protect yourself and your funds when ordering goods through marketplaces. For example, you should not communicate with the seller outside the trading platform via instant messengers, and you must pay for goods or services only through the payment services offered by the selected Internet platform. To protect the consumer from financial losses, funds are blocked until the purchase is received. The trading platform sends them to the seller only when the customer receives the order.

    If after paying for the goods there are controversial situations with the seller, which he refuses to resolve by oral appeal, the consumer has the right to make a written claim. The procedure in such a case is described in the article “Pre-trial procedure for resolving disputes on consumer rights protection issues”. You can file a claim using ready templateon the portal.

    Consumer portal was created in 2022 by the Moscow Government and the Moscow Office of Rospotrebnadzor. The resource contains more than 230 materials: articles, instructions, memos, webinars, and expert interviews. In addition to practical recommendations from experts, the publications contain the names of relevant regulations that can be relied on when communicating with legal entities or individual entrepreneurs to protect consumer rights.

    You can also get advice on consumer rights protection issues by calling the 24-hour hotline of the Rospotrebnadzor Administration for the city of Moscow: 7 495 539-36-96.

    The creation and support of information security tools, as well as counteracting cyber fraud, are in line with the objectives of the national project “Data Economy and Digital Transformation of the State”.

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155904073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow Family to Compete for the Title of Most Financially Literate in Russia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The regional stage of the II All-Russian Family Festival of Savings and Investments has ended in Moscow. 21 Moscow teams competed for the right to reach the final of the competition. Participants demonstrated their knowledge of investment products and an effective approach to savings, as well as their intelligence, erudition and resourcefulness.

    This year, the festival includes three stages – municipal, regional and federal. Families from 29 regions of Russia participate in them. The qualifying rounds were held in the format of intellectual tournaments, quizzes, tests and other events. The organizers of the Moscow stages are the capital Department of Finance and the city’s Center for Financial Literacy.

    The first qualifying round took place during the financial literacy day at the Northern River Terminal. The event was attended by 39 Moscow teams, for whom the organizers prepared several competitive tasks. Thus, it was necessary to find the right solutions in matters of distributing the family budget and insuring savings, as well as analyze simulated situations, trying to recognize the actions of illegal investment companies and false brokers.

    The second stage was held in the Technograd Innovation and Education Complex at VDNKh. The winning teams took part in quizzes, intellectual games and master classes. Vladimir Shibeko, a festival participant, said that the topic of savings was easy for his team, but they had to think about investments.

    “The tasks turned out to be tricky, but that’s what made it even more interesting. Especially in the quiz, where questions on financial topics were presented in the context of literature, history, and art. It was difficult to give an answer in 10 seconds, but we managed,” Vladimir Shibeko shared.

    The game “Financial Ingenuity” helped test the participants’ knowledge of budget planning, forming a financial goal and creating a safety cushion. During the intellectual tournament “Investments for All” families discussed the stock market, securities and various investment methods.

    In addition, educational events were held especially for the festival participants: a lecture on savings products and a master class on a long-term savings program. Experts explained how non-state pension funds help create additional income in the future and a financial safety net in case of unforeseen situations.

    Yulia Simonova, a participant of the festival, shared her impressions, noting that it was not just a competition, but a real training platform. After each test, experts from the financial literacy center analyzed the participants’ mistakes in detail and gave recommendations on choosing financial instruments. All this turned out to be very exciting and useful.

    The expert jury recorded the points scored by the teams. As a result of the calculations, the Nadvorny family team, represented by four participants of different generations, became the leader. They demonstrated excellent knowledge in the field of finance, and now they will have to compete with other winners from 28 regions of Russia for the title of the most financially literate family in the country. Irina, the team captain, noted that many rivals presented serious competition.

    “We understand how strong our opponents will be in the final, so we are already preparing for the final stage of the festival. We have thought out a strategy that we will follow. We will try to win the title of the most financially literate family in Russia,” Irina Nadvornaya noted.

    The second place was taken by the Simonov family, and the bronze prize winners of the festival were the Rudenkovs. The participants of the competition received certificates and memorable gifts.

    The final will take place on September 6–7 this year at the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation.

    The All-Russian Family Festival of Savings and Investments was held for the first time in 2024. The competition is organized by the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, and the main partners are the Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation and the Research Financial Institute of the Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation. This year, 3,200 teams took part in the municipal stage, and 629 families from all over the country took part in the regional stage.

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

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155898073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • Nike plans to reduce reliance on China production for US market to soften tariff blow

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Nike said it would cut its reliance on production in China for the U.S. market to mitigate the impact from U.S. tariffs on imports, and forecast a smaller-than-expected drop in first-quarter revenue, sending its shares up 11% in extended trading.

    U.S. President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs on imports from key trading partners could add around $1 billion to Nike’s costs, company executives said on a post-earnings call after the sportswear giant topped estimates for fourth-quarter results.

    China, subject to the biggest tariff increases imposed by Trump, accounts for about 16% of the shoes Nike imports into the United States, Chief Financial Officer Matthew Friend said.

    But the company aims to cut the figure to a “high single-digit percentage range” by the end of May 2026 as it reallocates China production to other countries.

    “We will optimize our sourcing mix and allocate production differently across countries to mitigate the new cost headwind into the United States,” he said on a call with investors.

    Consumer goods is one of the most affected areas by the tariff dispute between the world’s two largest economies, but Nike’s executives said they were focused on cutting the financial pain.

    Nike will “evaluate” corporate cost reductions to deal with the tariff impact, Friend said. The company has already announced price increases for some products in the U.S.

    “The tariff impact is significant. However, I expect others in the sportswear industry will also raise prices, so Nike may not lose much share in the U.S.,” said David Swartz, analyst at Morningstar Research.

    RUNNING FINDS ITS FOOTING

    CEO Elliott Hill’s strategy to focus product innovation and marketing around sports is beginning to show some fruit with the running category returning to growth in the fourth quarter after several quarters of weakness.

    Having lost share in the fast-growing running market, Nike has invested heavily in running shoes such as Pegasus and Vomero, while scaling back production of sneakers such as the Air Force 1.

    “Running has performed especially strongly for Nike,” said Citi analyst Monique Pollard, adding that new running shoes and sportswear products are expected to offset the declines in Nike’s classic sneaker franchises at wholesale partner stores.

    Marketing spending was up 15% year-on-year in the quarter. On Thursday, Nike hosted an event in which its sponsored athlete Faith Kipyegon attempted to run a mile in under four minutes.

    Paced by other star athletes in the glitzy and live-streamed from a Paris stadium, Kipyegon fell short of the goal but set a new unofficial record.

    Nike forecast first-quarter revenue to fall in the mid-single digits, slightly better than analysts’ expectations of a 7.3% drop, according to data compiled by LSEG.

    Its fourth-quarter sales fell 12% to $11.10 billion, but still beat estimates of a 14.9% drop to $10.72 billion.

    China continued to be a pain point, with executives saying a turnaround in the country will take time as Nike contends with tougher economic conditions and competition.

    The company’s inventory was flat year-over-year at $7.5 billion as of May 31.

    (Reuters)