Category: Economy

MIL-OSI Russia: Students of the State University of Management attended a meeting with the General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam To Lam

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

As part of the Victory Day celebrations, students of the State University of Management attended a meeting with the General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Comrade To Lam, which took place at the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration.

Comrade To Lam was met by Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Dmitry Chernyshenko, Chairman of the State Duma of the Russian Federation Vyacheslav Volodin and Rector of RANEPA Alexey Komissarov. More than 1,200 people took part in the event, including participants of the “Time of Heroes” program and 100 Vietnamese students studying at Moscow universities, including MGIMO, RUDN, HSE, MADI, Plekhanov Russian University of Economics and others. SUM was represented by three students of the Institute of Marketing: Nguyen Thi Hai Anh, Do Ngoc Anh, Phan Thi Zieu Anh.

This visit took place in a significant year when Russia and Vietnam celebrate the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War, the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations and 50 years since the liberation of South Vietnam.

In his welcoming speech, State Duma Chairman Vyacheslav Volodin noted that the leaders of Russia and Vietnam make a great contribution to the development of the dialogue between the two countries. “It is precisely such relations at the highest state level that allow us to do everything to develop other formats. Our task is to legislatively ensure the decisions reached at the level of heads of state,” he emphasized.

General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam To Lam delivered a lecture on the topic of “Foreign Policy Priorities of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam”. The distinguished guest congratulated those gathered on Victory Day and spoke in detail about the history of friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and Russia, paying special attention to cooperation in the fields of science and education. More than half of the General Secretaries of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam studied in Russia, as well as many representatives of the technical and creative intelligentsia who headed specialists in the national economy. In total, more than 10,000 Vietnamese students and postgraduates studied in the Soviet Union, and today more than 5,000 Vietnamese students study in Russia.

Photos provided by our students and taken from the official website of RANEPA.

Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 12.05.2025

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.

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 12, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Brazil’s First Lady Visits Higher School of Economics

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

On May 7, 2025, the First Lady of the Federative Republic of Brazil Jeanja Lula da Silva, an active supporter of sustainable development and the initiator of the Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty, visited HSE University. During the visit, a closed meeting was held with HSE Rector Nikita Anisimov. The meeting discussed the prospects for the development of Russian-Brazilian relations in science and education.

On this day, the Higher School of Economics hosted a round table on the topic “The Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty as a Key to Modern International Cooperation,” where Jeanja Lula da Silva was the guest of honor.

Opening the meeting, Victoria Panova, Head of the BRICS-Russia Expert Council, Vice-Rector of the National Research University Higher School of Economics, Sherpa in the Women’s Twenty, emphasized the importance of strategic partnership with Brazil, noting that the country actively expresses the position of the World Majority. Mutual understanding between Brazil and Russia on key issues of the international agenda creates favorable ground for promoting the principles of a multipolar world and strengthening ties at the level of scientific, expert and humanitarian cooperation.

Jeanja Lula da Silva shared her personal attitude to the topic of combating poverty and hunger, which she considers her life’s work. The First Lady noted that her ancestors come from Moscow, which makes her visit to Russia especially significant. According to her, the initiative to create the Global Alliance was one of the first steps of President Lula da Silva during his third term. The Alliance is aimed at combating global challenges, primarily social inequality, hunger and extreme poverty, which still affect hundreds of millions of people around the world.

Jeanja Lula da Silva stressed that in the context of sustainable development, states cannot ignore these challenges. The main goal is to provide real assistance to vulnerable groups, including women, children and the elderly. She paid special attention to the three key “pillars” of the Alliance: national policy, financial support and dissemination of knowledge. The Alliance currently unites 95 countries, as well as funds, international organizations and financial institutions.

Russian experts also spoke at the round table. Vice-Rector of the National Research University Higher School of Economics, Director of the Institute of Social Policy Lilia Ovcharova noted the importance of the Brazilian experience in building an effective social protection system: from employment and education support programs to child nutrition. Professor of the National Research University Higher School of Economics, Head of the Department of Agricultural Policy of the Institute of Agricultural Research Renata Yanbykh emphasized Russia’s contribution to global food security, noting the growth of agricultural exports and the importance of food cooperation with Brazil.

Igor Pilipenko, head of the working group “Financial Cooperation and the International Monetary and Financial System” of the BRICS-Russia Expert Council, recalled the potential of the New Development Bank as a financial instrument for combating poverty. HSE Araújo Esteves lecturer Ana Livia emphasized the need for joint efforts by both developed and developing countries to address global challenges.

In conclusion, Victoria Panova expressed gratitude to Jeanje Lula da Silva for her personal involvement and leadership, emphasizing that only initiatives “with a soul behind them” can change the world. She also invited the First Lady to become an ambassador of the Alliance within the Women’s Twenty.

The round table became a significant stage in the development of international scientific and humanitarian cooperation and gave a powerful impetus to the further strengthening of the Global Alliance as an effective instrument for combating poverty, hunger and social inequality on a global scale.

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.

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 12, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Text adopted – Discharge 2023: EU general budget – European External Action Service – P10_TA(2025)0086 – Wednesday, 7 May 2025 – Strasbourg

Source: European Parliament

1. European Parliament decision of 7 May 2025 on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2023, Section X – European External Action Service (2024/2024(DEC))

Source : © European Union, 2025 – EP

MIL OSI Europe News –

May 12, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Text adopted – Discharge 2023: EU general budget – European Economic and Social Committee – P10_TA(2025)0082 – Wednesday, 7 May 2025 – Strasbourg

Source: European Parliament

The European Parliament,

–  having regard to its decision on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2023, Section VI – European Economic and Social Committee,

–  having regard to Rule 102 of and Annex V to its Rules of Procedure,

–  having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgetary Control (A10-0054/2025),

A.  whereas in the context of the discharge procedure, the discharge authority wishes to stress the particular importance of further strengthening the democratic legitimacy of the Union institutions by improving transparency and accountability, and by implementing the concept of performance-based budgeting and good governance of human resources;

B.  whereas the European Economic and Social Committee (the ‘Committee’) is an advisory body of the Union providing a forum for consultation, dialogue and consensus among representatives of the various economic, social and civil components of organised civil society from the Member States;

C.  whereas the Committee contributes to the Union decision-making process and, by ensuring links between Union policies and economic, social and civic circumstances, it pursues its missions of better law making, participatory democracy from the bottom up and the promotion of European values;

D.  whereas the consultation of the Committee by the Commission or the Council is mandatory in certain cases, and the Committee may also adopt opinions on its own initiative while enjoying a wide area for referral as defined by the Single European Act, the Maastricht Treaty and the Amsterdam Treaty, allowing it to be consulted by Parliament;

E.  whereas the Committee’s commission for financial and budgetary affairs (CAF) is the Committee’s supervisory body for all budgetary procedures and, in particular, the establishment of the budget estimates, the budget implementation, the annual activity report, the discharge and the follow up to the annual report of the Court of Auditors (the ‘Court’);

F.  whereas in the last years the Committee has taken initiatives to attract and retain skilled staff, optimise its organisational structure and working methods and promote a respectful working environment, in the context of a limited budget;

1.  Notes that the budget of the Committee falls under MFF heading 7 ‘European public administration’, which amounted to a total of EUR 12,3 billion, i.e. 6,4 % of Union budget spending, in 2023; notes that, in 2023, the budget of the Committee represented 1,29 % of MFF heading 7 appropriations;

2.  Notes that the Court, in its Annual Report for the financial year 2023 (the ‘Court’s report’), examined a sample of 70 transactions under Heading 7, of which 21 (30 %) contained errors; further notes that for five of those errors, which were quantified by the Court, the Court estimated a level of error below the materiality threshold;

3.  Notes from the Court’s report that administrative expenditure includes expenditure on human resources including pensions, which in 2023 accounted for about 70 % of the total administrative expenditure, and on buildings, equipment, energy, communications and information technology; welcomes the fact that the Court concluded, as it did in previous years, that, overall, administrative spending is low risk; notes that the Court did not identify any specific issue concerning the Committee in 2023;

Budgetary and financial management

4.  Notes that the final adopted budget for the Committee was EUR 158 767 970 in 2023, representing an overall increase of 4,1 % compared to 2022; notes from the Committee’s replies to the questionnaire submitted by the Committee on Budgetary Control for the 2023 budgetary discharge (the ‘Questionnaire’) and the Committee’s annual activity report for 2023 (the ‘Annual report’) that the remuneration and allowances budget line (expenses with Committee’s staff and Members) increased by 8,4 % between 2022 and 2023 due to the inflation; notes from the Questionnaire that the budget for outside assistance for the operation, development and maintenance of software systems increased by 33,70 % from 2022 to 2023 due to the Committee having made the implementation of its digital strategy for 2024-2026 a priority in 2023; notes that, otherwise, the distribution of appropriations across other budget lines in the Committee’s 2023 budget remained comparable to previous years’ distribution;

5.  Notes with satisfaction that the rate of the Committee’s budget implementation of current year commitment appropriations increased further from 96,12 % in 2022 to 98,70 % in 2023, leaving behind the lower budgetary implementation in previous years due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the related travel restrictions; notes further that the current year payment appropriations execution rate increased from 88,12 % in 2022 to 90,67 % in 2023; notes that the average payment time in 2023 was 20,14 days, higher than in 2022 (i.e. 18,34 days);

6.  Notes that the carry-over of appropriations from 2023 to 2024 amounted to EUR 13 827 713 (i.e. approx. 8,70 % of the Committee’s budget for 2023), which represents a decrease from the previous year’s level of EUR 20 162 518 (i.e. approx. 13 % of the Committee’s budget for 2022); notes further with appreciation that the rate of implementation of the appropriations carried over from 2022 to 2023 was 86,76 % in 2023, compared to 76,91 % in 2022; encourages the Committee to continue the efficient use of the provided funds;

7.  Notes that the Committee’s own services launched 12 negotiated procedures below EUR 60 000 in 2022, mainly for case studies, studies and logistical support; notes that the Committee also launched six procurement procedures with the joint services shared with the European Committee of the Regions (the ‘CoR’) mainly in the field of logistics and maintenance;

8.  Notes that, in 2023, the Committee continued to improve the cost-effectiveness of its activities, including through hybrid work, increased teleworking, full dematerialisation of financial circuits and reduced energy consumption; notes from the Questionnaire that the Committee achieved financial savings of EUR 65 000 in 2023 due to a reduction in energy consumption; commends the Committee for having signed a new framework contract for medical checks that provides for lower prices, increased flexibility and better service overall than the previous contract; acknowledges the significant budgetary and administrative savings achieved by the Committee through interinstitutional cooperation, notably the joint services with the CoR and the outsourcing (Service level agreements) of specific services to the Commission in the handling of HR and the use of financial and HR management IT tools, as well as the participation in interinstitutional procurement procedures led by other institutions; notes from the Questionnaire that the total cost incurred by the Committee for the outsourcing of specific services to the Commission increased from EUR 743 600 in 2022 to EUR 793 000 in 2023;

9.  Recalls that the Council decision of 25 May 2023 set the allowance for remote attendance of members of the Committee at non-statutory meetings at EUR 145 per remote meeting per day, which represents 50 % of the daily allowance for physical participation in 2023; considers that despite remote attendance being an important instrument for modern institutions given that, inter alia, it reduces the costs of meetings and allows broader participation, the allocation of an allowance for remote attendance of meetings, even if reduced and intended only for some types of events, is difficult to understand for the public, even more so when taking into consideration the difference paid to the members of the Committee and members of the CoR for remote attendance; notes with satisfaction from the Committee’s follow-up report to Parliament’s resolution on the implementation of the Committee’s budget for 2022 (the ‘Follow-up report’) that the application of that decision has already produced budgetary savings of EUR 1 677 000 due to lower travel costs and allowances paid, as well as environmental savings of some 553,66 tons of CO2, due to less travel in 2023; notes from the Annual report that the number of reimbursed meetings days attended remotely was 2006 (6 259 in 2022), with an average duration of 3 hours per meeting for a total cost of EUR 294 930 in 2023 (EUR 922 925 in 2022); welcomes multiple checks carried out by the Committee to prove the remote attendance of members prior to the payment of the allowance;

10.  Notes that the impact of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine continued to put pressure on the Committee’s budget in 2023, through rising inflation and salary adjustments, challenges in building projects due to delays and higher raw material prices, the indexation of rental contracts (+10,3 % in 2023 compared to 2022), as well as indexation of maintenance and security service contracts (+13,50 % in 2023 compared to 2021); notes in particular that the energy costs increased from EUR 726 000 to EUR 3 125 000 between 2021 and 2022, before decreasing to EUR 1 923 391 in 2023; acknowledges the 2 % cap for non-salary-related expenses; commends in this context the Committee for its initiative in addressing challenges at budgetary level by e.g. implementing energy-saving strategies through short-term, as well as medium- and long-term measures, thus not needing an amending budget in 2023;

11.  Notes a decrease in the current year appropriations for budget line 1004 (expenditure for Member’s travel, including subsistence and meetings allowances) from EUR 19,790 million in 2022 (of which EU 15,895 million were paid) to EUR 19,761 million in 2023 (of which EU 18,344 million were paid); notes with satisfaction an improvement in the implementation rate of those appropriations from 80,31 % in 2022 to 92,83 % in 2023; notes that the Committee President participated in 35 missions totalling EUR 71 926 in 2023 against 26 missions totalling EUR 38 042 in 2022;

12.  Notes from the Questionnaire that the Joint Directorate for Innovation and Information Technology of the Committee and the CoR allocates some 3 % of its IT budget to cybersecurity which is far from the 10 % target provided for in the relevant legislation; calls on the co-legislators and the Commission to take this into account in the framework of the annual budgetary procedure;

Internal management, performance and internal control

13.  Notes from the Annual report that, as part of its annual work programme for 2023, the Committee had a total of 31 objectives designed for all entities of its administration and, as part of the general secretariat’s strategy for 2021-2025, the Committee has five core values and five key strategic objectives; notes from the Questionnaire that the number of opinions produced and participations in high-level meetings are key indicators for measures the Committee’s performance; takes note from the Questionnaire that the Committee has performance indicators in various areas, such as IT, HR, translation and communication; asks the Committee to include in its future reporting a list of all key performance indicators and objectives, per activity, as well as the target ( %) set for achieving them and the level ( %) of their achievement;

14.  Notes that the Committee pursues its mission through opinions, which refer to legislative proposals made by the Commission (referrals), own-initiative opinions, which call on the Union institutions to take action, and exploratory opinions, which feed into the Commission’s work on its planned initiatives, and that the Committee’s positions can be highlighted in resolutions or included in evaluation and information reports; commends the Committee for its performance in assisting Parliament, the Council and the Commission in the legislative cycle in 2023; notes in that context that, in 2023, the Committee adopted 213 opinions and reports, an increase from 202 in 2022 and organised 146 hearings and 23 conferences, compared to 116 and 29 in 2022, respectively; notes that Committee’s members participated in 429 high-level meetings, summits and conferences in 2023 compared to 345 in 2022;

15.  Appreciates that the Committee has taken action in 2023 to improve the visibility and impact of its work in connection with the format of its opinions, the methodology for follow-up opinions, cooperation with Parliament and the Commission and other projects of transversal nature, as well as innovative initiatives such as the EU Youth test, the enlargement candidate member initiative and the European Circular Economy Stakeholder Platform, among other;

16.   Commends the initiatives undertaken by the Committee aimed at fostering the active engagement of youth in the policy-making process;

17.  Welcomes the pilot project implemented between September 2022 and April 2023 with the aim of strengthening the follow-up of selected opinions in respect of all institutions, whereas 19 opinions were selected for reinforced follow-up under that project; notes from the Questionnaire the overall positive results of that pilot project, such as improving the Committee’s capacity to undertake follow-up actions, improved prioritisation of Committee’s work and increased outreach and impact of the opinions selected;

18.  Highlights that the efficient management of limited resources remained a key challenge throughout 2023 due to staffing constraints, compounded by increased activities under a continuous stable staffing policy; notes the Committee’s plan to introduce a new approach to strategic workforce planning and staff allocation, leveraging data collection on staff skills, active listening across the organisation, and reflections on strategic priorities by the Committee’s political bodies; invites the Committee to keep the Parliament informed of the outcome of this new plan, as this it could inspire other institutions who face similar, recurrent challenges resources wise;

19.  Notes with regard to internal control standards (ICS), that the 2023 compliance exercise showed improvements compared to 2022; notes in that context that compliance, namely the extent to which the requirements of the 16 ICS are implemented, increased from 80,30 % in 2022 to 87,40 % in 2023, while effectiveness, namely the extent to which the implementation of those requirements works as intended, increased from 74 % in 2022 to 78,10 % in 2023; notes further that the 2023 annual risk assessment exercise showed that the application of internal controls decreased inherent risks (in category ‘critical’ and ‘very important’) by 53 %, from 40 to 19, in 2023;

20.   Notes that a restructuration of the Internal Audit Service (IAS) took place in 2023, strengthening its compliance with international audit standards and streamlining and documenting all its process;

21.  Notes that, in the area of financial transactions, the Committee’s internal audit service (IAS) adopted a new decision on the assessment of risks for the implementation of a simplified procedure in the beginning of 2023; notes further that the Committee’s Bureau adopted a new internal audit charter and an audit committee charter including procedural rules in 2023;

22.  Notes from the Annual report and the Questionnaire that in 2023, the IAS launched four audits, namely on meeting authorisations, selecting the consultative commission on Industrial change, strategic cycle and duration and distance allowances for Committee’s members; calls on the Committee to keep the discharge authority informed on the outcome of those audits and implement all open recommendations resulted from previous audits (on institutional deadlines, interpreting, verification, ethics and integrity, statutory rights and payment times);

Human resources, equality and staff well-being

23.  Notes that, at the end of 2023, the Committee was employing 707 staff members, compared to 706 in 2022; notes further that 49 contract agents and 130 temporary agents (of which 52 recruited in 2023) were employed in 2023 (compared to 50 contract agents and 128 temporary agents in 2022); notes, in addition, that the Committee was employing 12 interim agents and 10 external staff working intra muros, excluding external services providers in the fields of logistics and IT; takes note that the occupation rate was 95,50 % in 2023 compared to 95,10 % in 2022 and the staff turnover rate was 7 % in 2023;

24.  Welcomes the ongoing efforts of the Committee to improve its HR framework with a view to becoming an attractive employer and workplace, where every individual is valued and can fully develop their potential; notes that as part of implementing its HR strategy for 2023-2025, the Committee delivered on several key milestones in 2023, with new decisions being adopted on working conditions (hybrid working, overtime, special leave), diversity and inclusion strategy and action plan for 2023-2027, staff mobility and the methodology on sensitive posts, as well as on staff appraisal and promotions system, among other; notes with satisfaction the positive results of the staff satisfaction survey published in May 2023, whereby both staff and managers expressed high levels of satisfaction with various HR related, matters in particular on working arrangements, a topic on which it appears the Committee has found the perfect balance;

25.  Notes that the Committee became a net importer of talent (from other institutions) for the second consecutive year as a result of implementing a targeted attractiveness and retention plan; acknowledges nevertheless persistent challenges due to reliance on temporary agents amid a shortfall of EPSO reserve lists, posing risks to expertise retention; underlines the importance of permanent staff in maintaining skills, continuity and productive working environment; recommends the Committee to implement initiatives to respond to those challenges by, for example, organising internal competitions;

26.  Notes that with a view to better distributing its scarce resources, an external HR mapping audit, commissioned by the Committee, was finalised in 2023; notes with concern that the results of that audit confirmed the heavy workload in many different services across the Committee, thus putting at risk the fulfilment of the Committee’s mission and obligations; calls on the Committee to implement that audit’s recommendations, including revising the appraisal and performance system by 2025, adopting the new working conditions decision, and conducting regular staff engagement monitoring; stresses the importance of strategic workforce planning to optimize resource allocation, ensure alignment with the high-level priorities set by political authorities and continue its cost-efficiency efforts;

27.  Notes that in 2023 the positive trends initiated in 2022 in relation to recruitment of staff continued; commends the Committee for the actions taken in this area such as the alignment of publication of vacancy posts with the publication of new EPSO reserve lists or the publication of job opportunities on the Committee’s website and Linkedin, among other; asks the Committee to keep Parliament informed of the outcome of its pilot project on employer branding activities; underlines that the on-boarding of newcomers constitutes an important factor of strategic alignment by ensuring that staff are informed of the rules and strategies in place in an institution; commends the Committee for having strengthened the on-boarding of new staff members in 2023 through an updated welcome booklet and on-boarding letter, a welcome pack with eco-friendly goodies, a feedback loop on the on-boarding experience, improved welcome session timing, a revamped Newcomers’ Corner, and on-boarding tips for managers;

28.  Recalls that the Committee adopted Decision 282/23A, effective 1 January 2024, establishing a flexible, trust-based hybrid working policy while offering staff an improved work-life balance and enhancing adaptability and efficiency; asks the Committee to inform the discharge authority about the developments in this regard in timely manner;

29.  Welcomes the appointment of a female Secretary-General in January 2024 as a positive development towards achieving gender balance; regrets however that the percentage of women in senior management remained low in 2023, with only two out of seven senior management positions currently being held by women; welcomes nevertheless that the Committee considers the gender balance of its staff and in particular in the senior management as an important factor and invites the Committee to swiftly improve the situation at the highest levels of the Committee, by ensuring a balanced representation in line with the Committee’s commitments to diversity and inclusion;

30.  Regrets that the Committee was unable to provide data on cases of burnout in 2023 and rejects the Committee’s position expressed in its follow-up report whereby burnout as such is not a recognised medical diagnosis and the reasons for burnout may be manifold; recalls the importance of statistical data on burnout with the aim ofhelping to take decisions on staff well-being, which should be also based on lessons learned from past very unfortunate experiences, and on external evaluations of the current framework; acknowledges data protection constraints but stresses the value of anonymised statistical data to support informed managerial decisions; notes with concern the findings highlighting heavy workloads in several services due to limited human resources; welcomes the adoption of new working arrangements as a positive step, but encourages the Committee to take further steps to ensure the publication of anonymised data on burnout cases;

31.  Notes that, in 2023, the Committee was employing staff members from all Member States, with some of them being overrepresented (e.g. Belgium, Italy.); notes that in 2023 24 % of managers employed by the Committee were from the 13 Member States that joined the Union after 2004, which represents a slight increase compared to 21 % in 2022 and 19 % in 2021; reiterates its encouragement to the Committee to continue to take action to reach a proper geographical distribution within its staff, with a particular focus on management level;

32.  Welcomes the Committee’s efforts to create a healthy work environment for its staff members; commends particularly the emphasis placed by the Committee on mental and physical health of staff, and the efforts made with regard to awareness-raising about health-related issues; notes the Committee’s measures on the management of sick leave, such as medical part-time and extended remote working, to ensure that staff on long-term sickness related absence return to work in a timely fashion, as well as an increase in the percentage of staff with no absences from 27 % in 2022 to 30 % in 2023; observes with satisfaction that the Committee arranged a free of charge skin cancer screening campaign on the Committee’s premises where 104 staff members over four days were consulted by external dermatologists in 2023;

Ethical framework and transparency

33.  Welcomes the adoption of the new diversity and inclusion strategy, effective until 2027; commends the specific awareness-raising actions on disability undertaken in early 2024; notes with satisfaction that diversity and inclusion training remains mandatory for managers and recommended for staff; acknowledges the Committee’s strong commitment to fostering a fully inclusive workplace; encourages the Committee to take further steps to monitor the representation of employees with disabilities and ensure the publication of anonymised data in this regard;

34.  Notes that the Committee continued its internal reform process with the adoption of a decision on the general implementing provisions on administrative investigations and implementing rules for disciplinary proceedings in 2023; commends the Committee for having taken this last step necessary to fully implement the measures for a reinforced ethical framework of the Committee; notes from the Follow-up report that the Committee and the internal auditor have agreed on an action plan relating to the audit of the Committee’s ethics and integrity, with eight recommendations implemented and closed and two recommendations still open to be implemented by March 2025; asks the Committee to keep the discharge authority informed on the progress made in this matter;

35.  Notes that the Committee continued to train staff and raise awareness about topics related to whistleblowing, conflicts of interest and other ethical issues in 2023: notes in this context with satisfaction the results of the staff engagement survey carried out in 2023 showing a high awareness rate among staff, with regard to the Committee’s ethical framework, in particular on the networks of confidential counsellors (93 %) and ethics counsellors (83 %); observes that the Committee organised 12 training sessions on those topics with a total participation of 79 staff members in 2023; commends the Committee for organising compulsory training on respect and dignity at work for all staff, including managers;

36.  Notes that one harassment complaint was reported in 2023 and closed the same year, as a result of investigation and mediation by the Committee, without sanctions being imposed; recalls that the Committee is a civil party in the ongoing legal proceedings initiated by Belgian national authorities against a former member accused of misconduct that is currently before the Belgian courts; asks the Committee to inform Parliament about developments in that case; believes that fostering a culture of respect and dignity, supported by a zero-tolerance policy on harassment, is crucial to prevent future allegations and to ensure a safe and inclusive working environment within the Committee;

37.  Reiterates that a zero-tolerance policy against harassment is needed to protect the wellbeing of staff and is a duty of any employer; reminds that in addressing harassment claims a lesson learned approach should be put in place in order to avoid any possible wrongdoing; still considers that an external and independent investigation into the case currently under legal proceeding would be beneficial to improve the Committee’s reaction to similar cases;

38.  Appreciates the Committee’s readiness to cooperate with the Union’s investigative bodies, namely the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) and the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) and the Ombudsman; notes that two OLAF cases were opened in 2023, both of which were dismissed in the same year: one for lack of sufficient evidence and the other referred to the Committee for follow-up; asks the Committee to keep the discharge authority informed of the progress made in the second case; notes further that the Ombudsman opened an enquiry in 2023 in relation to the management of a case involving allegations of harassment; asks the Committee to inform the discharge authority of the outcome of that enquiry;

39.  Notes with satisfaction the Committee’s work towards more transparency in its activities in 2023; notes in that context the adoption of a decision broadening the range of documents available online via the Transparency Register, such as the Committee’s meeting minutes and attendance lists, as well as a decision requesting the Committee’s members to meet only registered stakeholders, publish their list of meetings and attach their “legislative footprint” to their opinions; appreciates that the Committee publishes online information on its annual budget, performance indicators, expenditure or public procurement; calls for the publication of all meetings held by EESC members with third parties;

40.  Notes with satisfaction that the Committee has put solid rules and procedures in place to prevent conflicts of interests and avoid revolving doors with regard to staff who engage in outside activities or members who take on jobs after no longer being a Committee member; notes in this context that the Committee has introduced a new “Declaration of financial interests form” in 2023; notes that the form is to be declared by members, delegates, alternates and advisors for both their remunerated and non-remunerated posts or activities outside the Committee; commends further the Committee for its involvement in 2023 in the political negotiations to create the Inter-institutional Ethics Body tasked with setting ethical standards to strengthen transparency and integrity;

41.  Notes that the Committee Bureau, on 21 March 2023, adopted several transparency measures in accordance with the principles laid down with respect to the EU Transparency Register, such as a recommendation for office-holding members to only meet with registered stakeholders, the obligation for office holding members to publish their lists of meetings and a voluntary ‘legislative footprint’ for rapporteurs; notes that several actions were taken to implement the Bureau decision, including the issuing of a service note laying down practical modalities for the implementation of the decision, an awareness training campaign, and the provisions of template messages to be included in correspondence between Committee members and external stakeholders encouraging to join the EU Transparency Register (if applicable);

42.  Urges the EESC to implement real-time tracking of declared conflicts of interest, requiring all members and senior staff to publicly disclose financial interests, assets, and external affiliations annually, to prevent undue influence on decision-making;

43.  Notes an absence of cases in areas of fraud, conflicts of interest and whistleblowing in 2023; notes that the effectiveness of the Committee’s anti-fraud measures was reviewed in order to develop an anti-fraud strategy which is still missing despite several requests from Parliament in its discharge resolutions to take action to improve the overall anti-fraud system; recalls the importance of a comprehensive anti-fraud strategy and calls on the Committee to keep the discharge authority informed of the outcome of that exercise that should have culminated with the adoption of an anti-fraud strategy in 2024;

Digitalisation, cybersecurity and data protection

44.  Notes that the combined IT budget of both the Committee and the CoR was EUR 12 700 000 in 2023, compared to EUR 11 712 000 in 2022, i.e. an increase of 8,4 %, whereas EUR 350 000 of that budget (or 3 % thereof) was paid for cybersecurity in 2023; notes further that 6,24 % of the Committee’s total budget for 2023 represented expenditure for actions implementing the new ‘Digital Strategy 2024-2026’ (DS2026) prepared by the Joint Directorate for Innovation and Information Technology (DIIT) in 2023;

45.  Notes that DS2026 envisions a future where technology integrates with the Committee’s core mission, focusing on efficiency, speed, and continuous digital evolution, putting both administration and members at the centre of digital transformation and aiming to improve service delivery, empowerment, and adaptability; notes that DS2026 is structured around eight objectives, eight key principles and four major projects such as the adoption of Ares and EdiT which are expected to be rolled out in 2026 and 2025, respectively; notes with satisfaction from the Questionnaire the progress made by DIIT in implementing DS2026 in 2023, with actions taken such as the adoption of staff guidelines on artificial intelligence, integration of amendment flows with translation tools and establishment of a project management office, among many other;

46.  Notes from the Annual report the Committee’s actions in the area of protection of personal data and its processing; notes that in 2023 the Committee created a new online version of its register of records and a new joint register of records with the CoR, whereas the former had 121 records and the latter had 25 records at the end of 2023; notes further that the Committee adopted a new procedure for handling data breaches, published a data protection guide and implemented several awareness-raising initiatives for its staff and members in 2023; notes lastly that the EDPS launched one enquiry in 2023 related to the management of an external audit, and continued an older enquiry on the use of cloud services under the Cloud II contracts by Union institutions, whereas for both enquiries the conclusions are still pending; asks the Committee to keep the discharge authority informed on the follow-up on these matters;

47.  Notes that the Committee finalised in 2023 its project for the equipment of all its meetings rooms, whereas an additional 14 such rooms were equipped with technologies that make them fully operational in hybrid mode; appreciates that the Committee conducted all procurement procedures for high value contracts in a fully digitalised way, used the Qualified electronic signature for any type of contractual agreements and provided trainings to staff on the transition to the Public Procurement Management Tool system and the Funding and Tenders Portal in 2023;

48.  Commends the Committee for its concrete actions to ensure its staff acquire the necessary digital skills in an increasingly digitalised workplace in 2023; notes in this context the activities, such as “mini-hackatons”, organised in the framework of a peer-to-peer network established with the CoR to foster better use and understanding of collaborative digital tools, as well as peer-to-peer coaching and experience exchanges; notes that the outcome of those activities was integrated into the Committee’s training offer;

49.  Notes that in October 2023 guidelines for staff members on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) were adopted, that an information session was provided for all staff members, highlighting opportunities and challenges, and that further communication to staff members was provided through knowledge-based articles on the Committee’s intranet to raise awareness;

50.  Notes that the work continued adopting and applying the NIST Cybersecurity Framework within both the Committee and the CoR in 2023, whereas the actions taken that year focused on some of that framework’s principles, i.e. protect and detect principles; notes that mitigation strategies are implemented using the “Essential Eight” Cybersecurity Framework; notes further that the Committee did not encounter any cyber-attacks in 2023, but it did encounter brief Denial of Service (DoS) attacks against the Committee’s externally hosted corporate websites at the end of 2022 and the start of 2024;

51.  Urges the EESC to increase its cybersecurity budget to at least 10 % of its total IT expenditures in line with EU cybersecurity directives, ensuring enhanced protection against cyber threats, especially for sensitive data related to policy and budgetary matters;

Buildings

52.  Acknowledges receipt of the Committee’s report of 3 June 2024 informing the discharge authority about the Committee’s building policy, in compliance with Article 266(1) of the Union’s Financial Regulation; notes with satisfaction from that report that the Committee, with the CoR, achieved one of the major priorities of their 2017 Building Strategy, i.e. “geographical concentration of the buildings”; notes further that this achievement already brought savings due to the lower cost of renting the entire VMA compared to the three buildings previously rented; understands that those savings are approx. EUR 1,8 million, which,- according to that report, is equivalent to the rent paid for the B100 building; notes that the Committee is currently working on the update of its 2017 long-term building strategy, and that this work should be finished by the end of 2025; calls on the Committee to keep the discharge authority informed on the outcome of this exercise;

53.  Welcomes the finalisation of renovations (i.e. fitting-out works) of the newly acquired VMA building, which included the installation of smart energy saving technologies; supports the Committee’s plan to carry out technical and environmental audits of all its buildings, whereas the outcome of those audits should allow for the identification of all technical installations and building components that need to be fully or partially renovated or kept as they are, thereby aligning with the European Green Deal objectives; invites the Committee to update the discharge authority on the outcome of those audits and their follow-up;

54.  Notes that the task force on “new ways of working”, established in 2022, issued a first prospective report in 2023, focusing on the available office spaces and possible optimisation options; notes the Committee’s plan to continue that exercise with a participatory process with staff members to co-design the future workspaces; invites the Committee to keep the discharge authority informed on the progress made on this matter;

55.  Welcomes the commitment of the Committee and the CoR to systematically apply the “design for all” principle to their infrastructure, ensuring accessibility of their building by design; notes that the two committees took a range of different measures to ensure accessibility of their buildings to people with various kinds of disabilities in 2023, including upon modernisation of its elevators in the JDE building;

Environment and sustainability

56.  Welcomes the Committee’s green practices and commends the further reduction of gas, electricity and water consumption and carbon emissions and an increase in the recycling rate in connection with the Committee’s activities in 2023 compared to 2019; notes a slight deterioration, compared to 2019 levels, of the rate of waste volume, from -66 % in 2022 to -56 % in 2023 due to higher office presence;

57.  Notes that the energy efficiencies and emissions reductions have been achieved through investments in innovative energy-efficient building installations, including through smart energy saving technologies installed in the VMA building, the purchase of 100 % green electricity, the introduction of (customised) environmental criteria in all tender procedures with value of EUR 60 000 or more, the use of paperless workflows and other measures such as reducing the operating hours for lighting, reducing the winter reference temperature in all buildings to 19 degrees or closing buildings in periods of low staff presence, among many other measures; notes that the reduction in the Committee’s energy consumption corresponds to a 3,4 % rate and a financial gain of EUR 65 395;

58.  Notes from the Follow-up report that the smart energy saving technologies installed in the recently renovated VMA building contributed to a reduction in the Committee’s energy consumption (gas and electricity) of 20 % to 30 % in 2023; reiterates however its call on the Committee to provide the Parliament with an update on the return on investments of those technological installations;

59.  Welcomes that the Committee adopted an energy-saving strategy, with short-, medium- and long-term measures; notes in this context that the Committee started an environmental audit of all its buildings in order to identify, among other, the level of the energy performance of the current structures and pieces of equipment, as well as estimate the environmental return of the necessary investments compared to the overall costs (maintenance, consumption etc.) over a 30-year period; notes further that studies on energy efficiency measures are planned for 2024 and 2025; calls on the Committee to keep the discharge authority informed on the progress made on those matters;

60.  Recalls that in 2022, the electricity produced by Committee’s solar panels was 15,5 MWH or 0,25 % of the Committee’s yearly consumption, whereas in 2023 the same figure decreased to 5,75 MWh; notes with satisfaction from the Questionnaire that the Committee is leading by example with regard to measures and actions taken in favour of sustainable mobility;

Interinstitutional cooperation

61.  Commends the close cooperation established by the Committee with the CoR at administrative level, through the new cooperation agreement signed in 2022, whereby the two committees share premises and joint services in the areas of translation, infrastructure, logistics, security, procurement, financial management and IT, while maintaining full institutional autonomy; welcomes the positive development in 2023 when the two committee further agreed on the development and funding of a shared communication area with joint-audio visual facilities in the JDE building; asks the Committee to identify and inform the Parliament on the budgetary savings made during the first year of implementing that agreement in the audio-visual area; reiterates its call on the Committee to pursue and expand that cooperation in other areas with a view to avoiding duplication and further rationalising the operating costs of services available in the premises shared by the Committee and the CoR; invites the Committee and the CoR to explore the possibility of setting up a single administration for their joint services, keeping separate directorates or units for the services dealing with matters related to their specific and independent mandates; encourages the Committee and the CoR to continue their efforts to develop further cooperation and synergies;

62.  Observes that budgetary savings and efficiency gains continued to be realised through active cooperation between the Committee and other Union institutions in 2023, including by organising the Committee’s plenary sessions on Commission and Parliament premises, where the venues and associated services are provided either free of charge or at rates below external market prices;

63.  Notes with satisfaction that the Committee and Parliament re-negotiated in 2023 and signed in 2024 their inter-institutional agreement, whereas the agreement aims to provide more relevant and timely contributions throughout the legislative cycle and to reinforce bilateral cooperation; welcomes that the new Protocol of Cooperation of the Committee with the Commission, signed in 2022, already brought improvements to the Committee’s impact for example at pre-legislation phase through exploratory opinions; encourages the further reinforcement of political, legislative, and communication synergies between the Committee and Parliament, particularly in the context of the European Citizens’ Initiative and the European Semester;

64.  Reiterates its appreciation for the outsourcing (Service level agreements) of specific services to the Commission in the handling of HR and the use of financial and HR management IT tools, as well as for the Committee’s participation in inter-institutional procurement procedures led by other institutions, whereby the Committee continued to benefit from synergies in the area of IT, corporate travel, insurance, transportation, translation and audio-visual equipment in 2023;

65.  Notes the Committee’s role in reinforcing the links with and between the national economic and social councils (NESCs) of the Member States; notes from the Questionnaire the measures that the Committee has taken to reinforce the network of and the online community with the NESCs, such as the establishment of joint working groups and exchange programmes, working on collaborative IT platform, and participation in common events, among others; calls for continued cooperation on topics of common interest and the exchange of good practices, emphasising the vital role of civil society in addressing the Union’s current challenges;

Communication

66.  Notes that the Committee’s overall budget for communication in 2023 was EUR 2,15 million, an increase compared to EUR 1,5 million in 2022; notes that this budget was primarily allocated to the four flagship events organised in 2023 (European Citizens’ initiative, Your Europe, Your Say! The organic food awards and the 14th Civil Society Prize), the improvement and/or revamping of the Committee’s social media, external website and audio-visual production, as well as for media and press publications; commends the Committee for its communication activities delivering on this communication priorities for 2023, such as the Blue Deal initiative, COP28, the resolution on democracy, and the Committee’s 65th anniversary, among others;

67.  Commends the Committee for its efforts in connection with its strategic communication in 2023; notes that the Committee adopted a new communication strategy aimed at strengthening its image and outreach; notes that, as part of that strategy, the Committee web-streamed its main events, mostly in all Union languages, introduced new communication tools such as the ‘Reporting from the plenary’ video series focused its communication resources on the Committee’s flagship events for 2023 and deployed special efforts to increase its outreach on social media;

68.  Calls on the EESC to strengthen its monitoring and reporting on labour rights, social inclusion, and human rights violations within EU-funded programs, ensuring greater accountability in its advisory functions and policy recommendations;

69.  Notes that the number of the social media followers on the Committee’s corporate platforms increased substantially by 25,000 in 2023; notes that by the end of 2023, the Committee reached 61 416 followers on X, which is an increase of 5 % compared to 2022, 61 761 followers on LinkedIn, which is an increase of 30 % compared to 2022, 46 868 followers on Facebook, which is an increase of 5,3 % compared to 2022 and 17 428 followers on Instagram, which is an increase of 45 % compared to 2022;

70.  Welcomes the Committee’s positive approach towards the use of open-source solutions for its online communication; notes that in July 2023, the Committee opened its first account on the EU Voice Mastodon platform, a decentralised, free and open-source social media network that connects users in a privacy-oriented and advertising-free environment; observes throughout the second half of 2023, that the Committee actively communicated on the Mastodon account, feeding it every working day with posts on its activities and priorities and raising awareness about the Union; takes note of the Committee’s decision to discontinue its presence on that platform as of 2024.

MIL OSI Europe News –

May 12, 2025

MIL-OSI Europe: Text adopted – Discharge 2023: EU general budget – European Data Protection Supervisor – P10_TA(2025)0085 – Wednesday, 7 May 2025 – Strasbourg

Source: European Parliament

The European Parliament,

– having regard to its decision on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2023, Section IX – European Data Protection Supervisor,

– having regard to Rule 102 of and Annex V to its Rules of Procedure,

– having regard to the opinion of the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs,

– having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgetary Control (A10-0053/2025),

A. whereas, in the context of the discharge procedure, the discharge authority wishes to stress the particular importance of further strengthening the democratic legitimacy of the Union institutions by improving transparency and accountability, and implementing the concept of performance-based budgeting and good governance of human resources (HR);

B. whereas data protection is a fundamental right, protected by Union law and enshrined in Article 8 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union;

C. whereas Article 16 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union provides that compliance with the rules relating to the protection of individuals, with regard to the processing of personal data concerning them, is to be subject to control by an independent authority;

D. whereas Regulation (EU) 2018/1725 provides for the establishment of an independent authority, the European Data Protection Supervisor (the ‘EDPS’), responsible for protecting and guaranteeing the right to data protection and privacy, and tasked with ensuring that the institutions and bodies, offices and agencies of the Union embrace a strong data protection culture;

E. whereas the EDPS carries out its functions in close cooperation with fellow Data Protection Authorities (DPAs) as part of the European Data Protection Board (EDPB), and it serves the public interest while being guided by principles of impartiality, integrity, transparency, pragmatism and respects Union legislation;

1. Notes that the budget of the EDPS falls under MFF Heading 7 ’European public administration’, which amounted to a total of EUR 12,3 billion, i.e. 6,4 % of Union budget spending, in 2023; notes that the budget of the EDPS represented 0,18 % of MFF Heading 7 appropriations;

2. Notes that the Court of Auditors (the ‘Court’), in its Annual Report (the ‘Court’s report’) for the financial year 2023, examined a sample of 70 transactions under MFF Heading 7, of which 21 (30 %) contained errors; further notes that for five of those errors, which were quantified by the Court, the Court estimated a level of error below the materiality threshold;

3. Notes from the Court’s report its observation that administrative expenditure comprises expenditure on HR including pensions, which in 2023 accounted for about 70 % of the total administrative expenditure, and on buildings, equipment, energy, communications and information technology; welcomes the Court’s renewed opinion that, overall, administrative spending is low risk;

4. Notes from the Court’s report that in 2023 it audited a salary payment of an official who had last made a declaration concerning rights to family and child allowance in 2020; echoes the Court’s concern that delays in receiving and verifying such declarations increase the risk of ineligible payments;

Budgetary and financial management

5. Notes that the final adopted budget for the EDPS was EUR 22 711 559 in 2023, which represents an increase of 12,06 % compared to 2022; notes that the budget of the EDPS also covers the work of the independent Secretariat of the EDPB; notes from the Annual report of the EDPS for 2023 (the ‘Annual Report’) that the adopted budget of the EDPB was EUR 7,67 million in 2023, including EUR 300 000 granted by means of an amending budget which was needed due to an increase in litigation activities in 2023;

6. Acknowledges that the budget monitoring and planning efforts of the EDPS in the financial year 2023 resulted in a budget implementation rate of current year commitment appropriations of 96 % in 2023 (slightly lower than in 2022 when that rate was 98 %); further notes from the report on the EDPS annual accounts for 2023 that the current year payment appropriations execution rate was 84 % (lower than 88 % in 2022); notes in addition, from EDPS replies to the questionnaire submitted by the Committee on Budgetary Control for the 2023 budgetary discharge (the ‘Questionnaire’), that the execution rate of payment appropriations overall was 91,33 % in 2023 (lower than 94,09 % in 2022);

7. Notes further that the amount of carry-overs (C8) from 2023 to 2024 was EUR 2 517 942,67 or 11,08 % of the total budget for 2023, compared to EUR 1 827 354,23 or 9,01 % of the total budget for 2022; notes that the execution rate of the C8 budget in 2023 was 76,65 % (higher than 73,77 % in 2022);

8. Welcomes an improvement in the average time to pay from 25 days in 2022 to 19 days in 2023, with 97,50 % of payments processed on time; notes that that improvement is also due to the EDPS having solved an old bug with the electronic payment system for invoices linked to mission costs; notes further a significant increase in the number of payments from 799 in 2022 to 1335 in 2023; observes in that context that the number of transactions is still lower than pre-pandemic levels due to changes in the way of working (such as hybrid meetings or virtual events for experts);

9. Notes that the effects of illegal Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine continued to create budgetary pressure on the EDPS in 2023, including through rising inflation and the consequent increase in energy costs, with the most affected budget lines being staff salaries, building security and rental costs, mission costs and services provided by external staff; commends in that context the EDPS for having re-adjusted its priorities and having implemented internal reallocation within budget chapters; understands that budgetary optimisation was necessary in order to successfully manage the indexation of staff salaries and rental costs, as well as an increase in the costs of external lawyer support services due to an increased number of EDPS binding decisions which led to a bigger number of cases to be defended before the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) with the help of external legal assistance; regrets in that context that the EDPS had to postpone some of its activities, such as a feasibility study on artificial intelligence; calls on the EDPS to abide to the competences of its mandate with a collaborative approach with the Union institutions and agencies and to avoid initiating any legal action, especially those which are manifestly inadmissible, in order to avoid negative repercussions on the management of resources, which do not allow the EDPS to carry out its activities as an Institution;

10. Expresses concern about the significant increase in EDPS staff mission costs, from EUR 28 789 in 2021 and EUR 176 903 in 2022, to EUR 284 580 in 2023; calls on the EDPS to assess whether the resources spent on missions are being used appropriately and effectively; notes that the EDPS ceased making public the number of missions funded by organisers, as well as information on which unit or sector participated in each mission, thus reducing transparency regarding mission expenses; calls on the EDPS to reinstate this practice; encourages the EDPS to promote the use of video-conferencing tools where suitable, as this could contribute to lowering the number of missions and reducing costs; calls on the EDPS to assess whether the resources spent on missions are being used appropriately and effectively;

Internal management, performance and internal control

11. Notes that the EPDS used nine key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor its performance in 2023, in alignment with the main objectives of the EDPS Strategy 2020-2024 which is implemented through the Annual Management Plan; notes from the Annual Report that the EDPS over-delivered in almost all areas, as indicated by the results of KPIs for 2023, except for one KPI (the number of EDPS followers on some social media accounts); notes with concern that the EDPS encountered considerable challenges due to a growing workload and intricate data protection issues arising from the rapidly evolving digital landscape, as well as due to the extension of the EDPS mandate to supervisory activities (such as audits and investigations) and replies to consultations and prior consultations, all in the context of a limited budget; notes from the EDPS’ follow-up report to Parliament’s resolution on the implementation of the EDPS’ budget for 2022 (the ‘Follow-up Report’) that several legislative developments in the last two years have impacted the work and resources of the EDPS, due to the extension of Eurojust’s mandate, new information to be received by Europol under the Digital Services Act, the roll out of the new Union’s large-scale databases and interoperability framework in the justice and home affairs field and the entry into force of the Artificial Intelligence Act (the ‘AI Act’); calls on the Commission and on the budgetary authority to take those matters into consideration during the annual budgetary procedure;

12. Welcomes the fact that, in 2023, the EDPS strengthened its ability to assess and prepare for emerging technological trends and their potential impact on privacy and data protection; notes that this was achieved through a foresight-based approach, with a focus on monitoring developments in areas such as large language models, digital identity wallets, the internet of behaviours, extended reality, and deep fake detection; welcomes in that context the publication by the EDPS of its third TechSonar initiative on emerging technologies; congratulates moreover the EDPS for having been awarded the GPA Global Privacy and Data Protection Awards 2023 in the category of innovation;

13. Notes that 2023 was marked by several organisational changes or updates that were needed in order to respond and adapt to the evolving data protection challenges; welcomes in this context the appointment of a Secretary-General from 1 July 2023; notes in addition the transition of two sectors into units such as ‘Information and Communication’ and ‘Governance and Internal Control’ and the creation of three new specialised sectors under the ‘Technology and Privacy’ (T&P) unit: ‘Systems Oversight and Audit’, ‘Technology Monitoring and Foresight’ and ‘Digital Transformation’;

14. Emphasises the role of the EDPS in supervising the processing of personal data by Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencies; notes with concern the length of proceedings before the EDPS, as the EDPS did not close a single investigation in 2023, but in comparison to the previous year, in 2023, the number of notifications beyond the 72 hours significantly decreased;

15. Notes that the EDPS received 420 complaints, i.e. 53 more than in 2022, out of which 73 were admissible and 347 inadmissible in 2023; notes that the EDPS issued a final decision, opinion or reply in 31 out of 73 complaint cases received in 2023 within 44 days on average and responded to all 347 inadmissible complaints received; notes that, out of all admissible complaints (ongoing and received in 2023), 55 cases were finalised in 2023, which represents an increase of 17 % compared to 2022; acknowledges the efforts made by the EDPS to reduce the high number of complaints by developing a dynamic tool on the EPDS’ website, although the volume of complaints remained challenging due to limited resources in 2023; notes with satisfaction that the EDPS developed various procedural tools and policies to enhance its investigatory processes in 2023; commends in that context the EDPS for having amended its Rules of Procedure, whereby the “review procedure” is replaced by a “preliminary assessment” in order to safeguard the right to be heard of all the involved parties, thus contributing to a fair and timely handling of complaints and investigations;

16. Underlines the important role of consultation and advice of EDPS in the legislative process; notes that, pursuant to Article 42(1) of Regulation (EU) 2018/1725, the EDPS responded to 80 formal legislative consultations and its advice took the form of 54 opinions (27 in 2022), 26 formal comments (49 in 2022) and 34 informal comments (30 in 2022) to the Commission and to the co-legislators in response to legislative consultation requests in 2023; commends the EDPS for its input with regard to the AI Act, in particular EDPS’ own-initiative opinion on the AI Act and advice on the AI liability rules, as well as for EDPS’ input to the GPA resolution on generative AI systems; acknowledges a significant increase (+93 %) of consultation requests over the last five years;

17. Notes that, in 2023, the EDPS carried out eight investigations and five pre-investigations, marking a significant increase compared to previous years; notes that in 2023 the EDPS was actively involved in a total of 13 investigations and seven pre-investigations, either launched in 2023 or carried over from prior years; notes that the EPDS continued two complex and resource-intensive formal investigations from 2021 into the use by European Union Institutions, Bodies and Agencies (EUIBAs) of cloud services from non-EU/EEA entities, including a focus on the Commission’s use of Microsoft 365; urges the finalisation of those investigations on time because of their significant impact on the working of institutions; notes further that the EDPS also launched five investigations based on complaints about EUIBAs’ websites, focusing in a broad way on privacy and data protection issues, with preliminary assessments expected in 2024;

18. Urges the EDPS to prioritise and enhance procedures for handling the personal data of minors under 15, particularly in the context of Europol’s systems, where such individuals may be marked as suspects; recognises the heightened vulnerability of that group and the need for robust safeguards;

19. Notes that the EDPS investigated the Commission’s alleged use of micro-targeting on platform X and continued two pre-investigations: one case concerning EUIBAs’ use of Trello cloud service, which was closed in 2023 and another one on EUIBAs’ use of profiling, which was carried out in 2024; notes that a total of six investigations and four pre-investigations (one pre-investigation in 2022) were launched in the Area of Freedom, Security, and Justice (FSJ), reflecting a significant increase from 2022; notes the EDPS’ concerns with regard to the challenges that may arise in the case of investigations where joint action between national authorities and EUIBA’s is needed; notes in addition that, as part of its audit plan for 2023, the EDPS audited the following bodies: the European Personnel Selection Office, the European Investment Bank, the European Central Bank, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control and the European Medicines Agency;

20. Recalls that in 2022 the EDPS brought an action for annulment of two provisions of the amended Europol Regulation before the General Court, which was later rejected; notes that meanwhile the EDPS decided to appeal the order of the General Court in case T-578/22(1), believing the issues raised should be addressed at the highest level; regrets that the EDPS did not realise the manifest inadmissibility of its appeal, even if the institution did not intend to challenge an act by Europol, but a retroactive change in the legal framework aimed at neutralising the effects of the EDPS’ enforcement actions; calls on the institution to cooperate with Union institutions and agencies, before initiating legal proceedings that prevent the fulfilment of its mandate and the use of its resources for purposes for which they were intended; notes further that the EDPS also followed up on the implementation of its Order of 3 January 2022, including checks on Europol’s reporting; regrets that the final report on that matter was communicated by the EDPS only on 22 July 2024;

21. Notes that, after the pilot implementation of the new risk management framework at the EDPS in late 2022, an anonymous satisfaction survey was conducted in May 2023 to assess its effectiveness and gather additional suggestions; notes further that the survey results were positive, leading to the formal adoption of the framework on 26 June 2023;

22. Notes that the internal audit service (IAS) carried out an audit on the methodology for the planning of EDPS audits in the EDPS in 2023; notes that the audit was concluded with two recommendations for which the EDPS submitted an action plan to the IAS; calls on the EDPS to keep the discharge authority informed on a regular basis on the progress made in that matter;

23. Recalls the Treaty on the European Union that the EU and its institutions shall promote solidarity and equality between women and men;

HR, equality and staff well-being

24. Notes that, at the end of 2023, the EDPS had 129 members of staff, compared to 127 in 2022; notes that the EDPS employed 50 contract staff (CA) under Article 3(b) of the Staff Regulations of Officials and the Conditions of Employment of Other Servants (52 CA in 2022), 7 temporary agents (TA) under Article 2(b) and 2(c) (6 TA in 2022) and used the services of 12 external services providers (EXT) working intra-muros in 2023 (8 EXT in 2022); encourages the EDPS to continue its efforts towards a more balanced geographical representation among all Member States specifically at managerial level; welcomes the increased diversity of nationalities represented, but notes with regret the continued underrepresentation of women in senior management positions; calls for the adoption of a gender parity roadmap, including proactive recruitment measures and leadership training programs for female staff members;

25. Notes that the EDPS had 23 nationalities (from the Member States) represented among its staff in 2023, which is an improvement in comparison with 22 nationalities in 2022; notes with dissatisfaction the over-representation of five nationalities and an underrepresentation of other nationalities; urges the EDPS to continue its efforts to achieve a balanced geographical distribution of nationals from all Member States within its staff, by improving communication, fostering visibility, and enhancing job conditions to attract underrepresented nationalities;

26. Observes that, in 2023, the EDPS maintained a workforce comprising 65 % women and 35 % men, consistent with trends from previous years; regrets the absence of women in senior management roles, despite achieving gender parity among the six middle management positions; urges the EDPS to intensify its efforts to ensure gender-balanced representation across all staff levels, and invites the EDPS to promote the application of women also with a view to the next election of the Supervisor by Parliament;

27. Notes a high occupancy rate of the establishment plan of 95,65 % but also a high turnover rate of 13 % in 2023; notes that most of the unfilled positions were a result of candidates being unsuitable, given the EDPS’ need for highly specialised profiles and the small pool of eligible candidates; welcomes the addressing of those challenges through republication with a wider or more targeted dissemination of the vacancy or by redrafting the requirements; welcomes the steps taken by the EDPS regarding the hiring process; calls on the EDPS to continue to address the challenges in finding suitable candidates and to keep the discharge authority informed about improvements on staff recruitment and turnover;

28. Notes that, in the second half of 2023, the EDPS’ HR team launched a pilot for a new on-boarding process for newcomers, with sessions that cover, inter alia, presentations of core units’ work, ethics, procurement procedures and information security, whereas three on-boarding sessions were offered in 2023; invites the EDPS to continue offering to newcomers “on-boarding” and to all members of staff mandatory sessions that remind the importance of principles such as ethics, conflicts of interest, transparency, internal control and anti-fraud, as they have become the standard in the Union institutions; notes moreover that 12 individual sessions were offered for EDPS and EDPB staff, six sessions of group coaching in which participants (manager level) learned from each other, as well as a one-year team coaching with a designer for leadership development at the European School of Administration in 2023;

29. Notes, from the Questionnaire, that the EDPS offers flexible and hybrid working arrangements, that are well-received by members of staff who can benefit, inter alia, from parental leave, time credits, part-time work or working from abroad for a limited number of days per year; notes that, in 2023, the majority of staff made use of those working conditions, whereas 86,30 % of staff made use of teleworking arrangements in 2023; considers that the building infrastructure should be optimised to reflect that high rate of teleworking, which could contribute to reducing operational costs and ensuring more efficient use of office space; welcomes the EDPS’ continued efforts to actively improve physical and mental well-being of its staff;

30. Commends the EDPS for carrying out several awareness-raising actions during the year 2023 with information sharing on elimination of racial discrimination, International Women’s Day, EU diversity month and learning about neurodiversity; notes that currently the EDPS does not employ staff with disabilities but has an equal opportunities clause included in all EDPS vacancy notices and actively encourages applications from candidates with disabilities;

31. Notes from the Questionnaire that the EDPS considers confidential any information on burnout cases, including the number thereof; disagrees with that opinion and calls the EDPS to provide the discharge authority with the number of burnout cases on a yearly basis; notes with satisfaction that, in 2023, there were no harassment cases reported at the EDPS; welcomes the fact that, in 2023, the EDPS continued to provide an anti-harassment presentation delivered by one of the EDPS’ confidential counsellors, as part of the induction training called the ‘EDPS Welcome Day’; commends the publication of the decision on anti-harassment and the role of the confidential counsellors on the EDPS’ intranet;

Ethical framework and transparency

32. Notes that, in 2023, the EDPS focused its efforts on increasing staff awareness of the EDPS/EDPB ethical framework by organising mandatory dedicated training sessions for all staff and induction trainings for EDPS/EDPB newcomers, appointing a new ethics officer and participating in the ‘Comité Paritaire des Questions Statuaries’ working group on ethics; welcomes the establishment of a mailbox by the EPDS, where members of staff can submit their requests regarding any ethics related inquiries, as well as the use of Commission’s Ethics module in Sysper; encourages the EDPS to continue raising awareness and organising surveys to assess the level of staff awareness of the EDPS/EDPB ethical framework;

33. Welcomes the overall high level of transparency achieved by the EDPS concerning its activities, in particular as regards the publication of the agenda and the declaration of interests of the Supervisor and of the Head of EDPS Administration, in line with the Supervisor’s code of conduct of 2019; notes from the Follow-up Report that the EDPS has adopted two codes of conduct, whereas one of them applies to the Supervisor and the other one applies to the EDPS staff; understands that in cases when the Secretary-General is called to replace the Supervisor, the latter’s code of conduct also applies to the Secretary-General;

34. Notes with satisfaction that the EDPS has never been involved in any investigations by the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) since its establishment;

35. Notes that, out of five inquiries opened by the Ombudsman in 2023 concerning the EDPS, four were closed without any further inquiry; notes that, for one enquiry, the decision was still pending and expected for Q4 2024; calls on the EDPS to keep the discharge authority informed as to the outcome of this enquiry;

36. Regrets that the EDPS has still not formally joined the Union’s Transparency Register (TR); nevertheless notes from the Follow-up Report that, with a view to formally joining the TR, the EDPS has launched an internal assessment on transparency measures, whereas, in 2023, exploratory meetings and exchanges of the EDPS with secretariat of the TR took place; calls on the EDPS to inform the discharge authority of the outcome of that assessment exercise; reiterates its call on the EDPS to join and use the TR, including for the proactive disclosure of meetings with any third parties, to ensure transparency in EDPS’ regulatory and advisory functions;

37. Notes with satisfaction that, in 2023, the EPDS established internal rules applicable to the hearing of persons that could be affected by an EDPS final decision adopted in own-initiative investigations and inquiries in order to ensure the proper exercise of their fundamental right to be heard in such proceedings; commends the EPDS for publishing a new factsheet on EDPS Investigations and a new EDPS Investigation Policy as well as for ensuring that all financial reports, including annual budgets, accounting and audit reports, are made publicly accessible through a Union institution website and other official channels, as the EPDS takes a leading role in enhancing the cybersecurity preparedness of the Union institutions;

38. Notes with satisfaction from the Questionnaire that no cases of conflicts of interest, whistleblowing or fraud were reported in the EDPS in 2023; notes that the EDPS has set up a framework to prevent conflicts of interest at the level of senior management and staff through codes of conduct, awareness raising and declarations of absence of conflicts of interest and confidentiality; notes that, in addition to the mandatory introduction to the ethical framework of the EDPS for all new members of staff, new members of staff are also introduced to the EDPS’ anti-fraud strategy;

39. Notes from the Questionnaire that the EDPS has internal rules on whistleblowing, which define safe routes and channels through which staff may raise concerns about fraud, corruption or any other serious wrongdoing, without prejudice to the confidentiality of the identity of the whistleblower and of the information reported; notes that, so far, there has never been a whistleblowing case reported to the EDPS;

40. Urges the EDPS to publicly disclose any recusals due to conflicts of interest in its enforcement decisions, ensuring full transparency in regulatory oversight and decision-making;

Digitalisation, cybersecurity and data protection

41. Notes from the Questionnaire that the 2023 budget for IT equipment and projects was 9,5 % lower compared to 2022; notes that that decrease was primarily because no new IT feasibility studies were being commissioned in 2023, as opposed to 2022 where such studies represented a substantial portion of the IT budget; notes further that other cost elements remain relatively stable between the two years, including general IT services and maintenance;

42. Notes from the Follow-up Report and the Questionnaire the conclusions of the IT feasibility study carried out in 2022, whereby there are gaps between what the IT tools and services provided by the Commission and Parliament can offer and the specific needs of the EDPS; notes that those gaps should be addressed by developing in-house capabilities and applications for which a minimum of five IT staff and partial outsourcing EDPS was deemed necessary; regrets that, due to budgetary constraints, implementation of the recommendations of the study remained on hold; calls on the EDPS to consider a step-by-step approach by starting with those recommendations and projects that would require fewer resources;

43. Commends the progress made in 2023 by the EDPS in digitalising its workflows and processes, with the introduction of ARES, the qualified digital signature (e-IDAS) and a collaborative platform (Nextcloud) for drafting documents and video-conferencing, as well as updates to the tool (Website Evidence Collector) that automates the collection of personal data processing on websites of data controllers and processors, the adoption of the acceptance environment of EU Send Web, a service/channel to exchange sensitive non-classified information with other EUIBAs and further progress made towards implementing services that cannot be outsourced, such as the form and the electronic workflow to manage data breach notifications; notes nevertheless issues with regard to the use and maintenance of the e-procurement system;

44. Welcomes the EDPS’s focus on ensuring that external contractors meet the necessary moral and ethical standards expected of all Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencies, particularly in light of the previous use of external companies by EDPS that, according to Yale University’s ranking, continue to operate in Russia;

45. Acknowledges that the EDPS successfully relies on many of the administrative systems used by the Commission, particularly in the field of HR and business administration processes, as well as on some of Parliament’s services, including the provision of laptops, network infrastructure and video-conferencing; commends the fact that the project to improve the quality and performance of the computers provided to EDPS staff, in collaboration with Parliament, with a view to the generalisation of hybrid work, has been completed;

46. Acknowledges the leading role of EDPS in enhancing the cybersecurity preparedness of the Union institutions, while working closely with bodies such as European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) and cybersecurity hubs such as CERT-EU; urges it to develop a structured audit framework for cybersecurity risks within Union bodies; notes that, in 2023, the EDPS continued to improve its readiness to protect personal data and sensitive information against cyber-attacks in view of the rapidly changing cybersecurity threat landscape; commends in that context the EDPS for reviewing its security policies and methodologies in preparation for the impact of the Cybersecurity Regulation (Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2023/2841(2)); notes from the Questionnaire that the EDPS introduced a request for two additional full-time equivalents to cover cybersecurity infrastructure in connection with EDPS’s obligations under that Regulation as well as the EDPS’ role as a member of the Interinstitutional Cybersecurity Board (IICB); notes further with appreciation that the EPDS upgraded its Information Security Policy and the EDPS Acceptable Use Policy to address specific cybersecurity threats in relation to teleworking, use of personal mobile devices and banning of dangerous applications (TikTok); notes that the EDPS did not encounter any cyber-attacks in 2023; calls for annual public reporting on detected threats, response measures, and institutional cyber resilience;

47. Commends the EDPS for updating cybersecurity training for all staff and revamping the security training model for newcomers; appreciates that the EPDS has been proactive in raising awareness about cyber security risks, for instance by preparing fact sheets, conducting surveys with EUIBAs and running awareness campaigns; encourages the EDPS to ensure that staff receives compulsory training on the safe and ethical use of AI tools to enhance their understanding and mitigate potential risks;

Buildings

48. Notes that in 2023, as in 2022, the EDPS and EDPB were the sole tenants of Parliament’s building where they were located, following the move of the Ombudsman at the end of 2021 and that by renting their premises from the Parliament rather than the private market the EDPS intends to keep the rental and maintenance costs at a reasonable level; notes that the EDPS had to request an additional EUR 81 856,84 for paying rental costs to Parliament, given that the indexation rate was 8,82 % and thus higher than the 2 % ceiling for administrative expenditures;

49. Notes that, in terms of accessibility of its building, the EDPS relies on the decisions taken and implemented by Parliament, as part of their building policy; notes from the Follow-up Report that the EDPS employs staff with physical impairments due to serious illness; welcomes the commitment of the EDPS to explore the possibilities of hiring trainees with reduced mobility or disabilities;

Environment and sustainability

50. Notes that the EDPS has not joined the Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) but has implemented several measures to reduce its environmental footprint, such as regulating the temperature automatically and centrally, turning lights off automatically when there is no movement in the room, purchasing eco-friendly products and services and automating the workflows with the introduction of ARES; notes from the Follow-up Report that according to the information received by Parliament’s Directorate-General for Infrastructure and Logistics, responsible for the management of the building rented by the EDPS, solar panels are installed on that building; asks the EDPS to inform the discharge authority to report on the share (%) of the solar-panel produced electricity in the EDPS’ total energy consumption needs per year; calls further on the EDPS to inform the discharge authority of any new developments regarding the EMAS certification process;

51. Notes that the EPDS has not assessed its carbon footprint in 2023; welcomes, however, that the EDPS continues to apply measures that reduce the carbon footprint by reducing the travel of journey to the office through teleworking possibilities, reimbursing 50 % of staff’s monthly/annual subscriptions for the use of public transport, encouraging the staff to favour videoconferencing and train travel for short distances, managing the cycle for invoices electronically and achieving an entirely paperless selection procedure and appraisal exercise as regards HR;

52. Urges the EDPS to adopt the EMAS to systematically monitor and improve its environmental footprint, particularly in terms of energy consumption, waste reduction, and sustainable office policies;

53. Notes that the EDPS addresses sustainability-related risks (such as environmental, social and governance risks) in a comprehensive way through an annual risk assessment exercise; welcomes in that context that the EDPS adopted its new risk management process in 2023, which should help the EDPS to target and better analyse those risks and consequently better calibrate mitigating actions;

Interinstitutional cooperation

54. Welcomes the budgetary and administrative savings achieved by the EDPS through inter-institutional cooperation, particularly the conclusion of service-level agreements with Parliament for the rental of its premises and the use of IT system applications, hardware supplies and maintenance and with the Commission for HR and business administration processes, as well as through participation in large interinstitutional framework contracts in areas such as IT consultancy, interim services and office supplies; commends in addition the EDPS for maintaining a structured cooperation with the Ombudsman, the Agency for Fundamental Rights and CERT-EU through memorandums of understanding;

55. Notes that the EDPS participates in meetings of various interinstitutional bodies; welcomes in this context the participation of the EPDS in meetings of the Heads of Administration and the Interinstitutional Online Communication Committee, led by Parliament’s Directorate-General for Communication; acknowledges that interinstitutional cooperation with EDPS, in his supervisory role, is of key importance for the other Union institutions to enhance their level of compliance with the data protection legal framework;

56. Calls for closer cooperation between the EDPS, the Court of Auditors, OLAF, and the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) to develop common protocols for fraud detection in digital data and financial transactions within EU institutions; stresses the need for joint audits on AI-based fraud risks;

57. Welcomes the pivotal role played by the EDPS in 2023 in the coordination of the Data Protection Authorities of the Member States (DPAs) to promote consistent data protection across the Union; notes that the EDPS joined 26 DPAs in a coordinated enforcement action on the role and tasks of data protection officers (DPOs), assessing their compliance with Regulation (EU) 2018/1725; notes the continued active involvement of the EPDS in the Coordinated Supervision Committee (CSC) within the area of FSJ addressing issues such as handling complaints against Europol and enhancing cooperation processes; appreciates furthermore all the other steps taken to improve cooperation between the EDPS and the DPAs such as the conduction of a joint Europol inspection with national authorities (Poland and Lithuania) and the participation in the coordinated supervisory action on processing minors’ data in Europol systems, the participation in an operational visit to the European Delegated Prosecutor’s office in Lisbon under a Working Arrangement with Portugal’s DPA and the coordination of an onsite inspection in Lesvos with Greece’s DPA to verify data collection practices during Joint Operations by Frontex; acknowledges that those interinstitutional engagements help the EDPS align with best practices of Union institutions and benefit from the exchange of information with peer departments;

Communication

58. Notes that the budget for public communication and promotional activities in 2023 amounted to EUR 468 000, which represented an increase of 54 % compared to 2022;

59. Notes with satisfaction that the EDPS organised several communication events online as well as in person in 2023, aimed at raising awareness of EDPS’ role and mission among a wider public and the importance of respecting Union data protection rules, such as Data Protection Day, the EDPS Trainees’ conference (twice a year), the EDPS Seminar on the essence of the fundamental rights to privacy and data protection, and other international events;

60. Notes that the EDPS communicates online via its website and its social media accounts on X (ex-twitter) (29 400 followers), LinkedIn (71 000 followers), YouTube (2 900 followers), EU-Voice (5 900 followers) and EU-Video (750 followers);

61. Notes that the pilot project of the platforms EU Voice and EU Video (free and open-source social media networks, privacy-oriented and based on Mastodon and PeerTube software) continued in 2023; welcomes in that context the EDPS’ contribution to the Union’s strategy on data and digital sovereignty in order to promote the Union’s independence in the digital world and compliance with the data protection legal framework.

(1)	Order of the General Court of 6 September 2023, EDPS v Parliament and Council, T-578/22, ECLI:EU:T:2023:522.
(2)	Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2023/2841 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 December 2023 laying down measures for a high common level of cybersecurity at the institutions, bodies, offices and agencies of the Union (OJ L, 2023/2841, 18.12.2023, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2023/2841/oj).

MIL OSI Europe News –

May 12, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM remarks at Immigration White Paper press conference: 12 May 2025

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Speech

PM remarks at Immigration White Paper press conference: 12 May 2025

Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s remarks at a press conference on the Immigration White Paper.

Good morning.

Today, we publish a White Paper on immigration, a strategy that is absolutely central to my Plan for Change. This strategy will finally take back control of our borders and close the book on a squalid chapter for our politics, our economy, and our country.

“Take back control.” Everyone knows that slogan and what it meant for immigration, or at least that’s what people thought. Because what followed from the previous Government, starting with the people who used that slogan, was the complete opposite. Between 2019 and 2023, even as they were going around our country telling people, with a straight face, they would get immigration down, net migration quadrupled. Until in 2023, it reached nearly 1 million, which is about the population of Birmingham, our second largest city. That’s not control – it’s chaos.

And look, they must answer for themselves, but I don’t think you can do something like that by accident. It was a choice. A choice made even as they told you, told the country, they were doing the opposite. A one-nation experiment in open borders conducted on a country that voted for control. Well, no more. Today, this [political content redacted] Government is shutting down the lab. The experiment is over. We will deliver what you have asked for – time and again – and we will take back control of our borders.

And let me tell you why. Because I know, on a day like today, people who like politics will try to make this all about politics, about this or that strategy, targeting these voters, responding to that party. No. I am doing this because it is right, because it is fair, and because it is what I believe in.

Let me put it this way: Nations depend on rules – fair rules. Sometimes they’re written down, often they’re not, but either way, they give shape to our values. They guide us towards our rights, of course, but also our responsibilities, the obligations we owe to one another. Now, in a diverse nation like ours, and I celebrate that, these rules become even more important. Without them, we risk becoming an island of strangers, not a nation that walks forward together.

So when you have an immigration system that seems almost designed to permit abuse, that encourages some businesses to bring in lower-paid workers rather than invest in our young people, or simply one that is sold by politicians to the British people on an entirely false premise, then you’re not championing growth, you’re not championing justice, or however else people defend the status quo. You’re actually contributing to the forces that are slowly pulling our country apart.

So yes, I believe in this. I believe we need to reduce immigration significantly. That’s why some of the policies in this White Paper go back nearly three years, [political content redacted]. It’s about fairness.

Migration is part of Britain’s national story. We talked last week about the great rebuilding of this country after the war; migrants were part of that, and they make a massive contribution today. You will never hear me denigrate that. But when people come to our country, they should also commit to integration, to learning our language, and our system should actively distinguish between those that do and those that don’t. I think that’s fair.

Equally, Britain must compete for the best talent in the world in science, in technology, in healthcare. You cannot simply pull up a drawbridge, let nobody in, and think that is an economy that would work. That would hurt the pay packets of working people – without question. But at the same time, we do have to ask why parts of our economy seem almost addicted to importing cheap labour rather than investing in the skills of people who are here and want a good job in their community. Sectors like engineering, where visas have rocketed while apprenticeships have plummeted. Is that fair to Britain? Is it fair to young people weighing up their future to miss out on those apprenticeships, to see colleges in their community almost entirely dedicated to one-year courses for overseas students? No, I don’t think it is. And truth be told, I don’t think anyone does. And yet that is the Britain this broken system has created.

So, as this White Paper sets out, every area of the immigration system – work, family, and study – will be tightened up so we have more control. Skill requirements raised to degree level. English language requirements across all routes – including for dependents. The time it takes to acquire settled status extended from five years to ten. And enforcement tougher than ever because fair rules must be followed.

Now, make no mistake – this plan means migration will fall. That’s a promise. But I want to be very clear on this. If we do need to take further steps, if we do need to do more to release pressure on housing and our public services, then mark my words – we will. But it’s not just about numbers. Because the chaos of the previous government also changed the nature of immigration in this country. Fewer people who make a strong economic contribution, more who work in parts of our economy that put downward pressure on wages. So perhaps the biggest shift in this White Paper is that we will finally honour what “take back control” meant and begin to choose who comes here so that migration works for our national interest.

You know, this is where the whole debate is skewed, as if some people think controlling immigration is reigning in a sort of natural freedom rather than a basic and reasonable responsibility of government to make choices that work for a nation’s economy. For years, this seems to have muddled our thinking, but let me be clear – it ends now. We will create a migration system that is controlled, selective, and fair. A clean break with the past that links access to visas directly to investment in homegrown skills so that if a business wants to bring people in from abroad, they must first invest in Britain. But also, so settlement becomes a privilege that is earned, not a right, easier if you make a contribution, if you work, pay in, and help rebuild our country.

Now, some people may even be against that, but I think for the vast majority of people in this country, that is what they have long wanted to see. An immigration system that is fair, that works for our national interest, and that restores common sense and control to our borders. That is what this White Paper will deliver: lower net migration, higher skills, backing British workers, the start of repairing our social contract, which the chaos and cynicism of the last government did so much to undermine.

Thank you.

Updates to this page

Published 12 May 2025

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

May 12, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Breaking: China, US announce measures to ease tariff tensions

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

GENEVA, May 12 (Xinhua) — China and the United States on Monday announced a series of tariff adjustment measures aimed at easing trade tensions between the world’s two largest economies.

The decision followed a two-day high-level economic and trade meeting between China and the United States. A joint statement released after the meeting said both sides recognized the importance of bilateral economic and trade relations for themselves and for the global economy. They also stressed the importance of sustainable, long-term and mutually beneficial economic and trade relations. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 12, 2025
MIL-OSI: Astra Fintech Announces Establishment of Korea HQ, Strengthening Commitment to Solana Ecosystem and Regional Expansion
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Key Takeaways
- Astra Fintech’s establishment of its Korea HQ reinforces its commitment to the region, following active participation in local blockchain events like Seoulana
- The company plans to deepen its involvement in the Solana ecosystem, leveraging its speed and scalability to advance DeFi, payments, and Web3 solutions tailored to the Korean market.
- Astra Fintech aims to invest in local partnerships, talent, and regulatory engagement, positioning itself as a key innovator in Korea’s fintech and blockchain landscape.
SEOUL, South Korea, May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Astra Fintech, a leading Canadian Finfra firm, has officially announced the launch of its Korea Headquarters — an essential milestone in the company’s strategic expansion throughout Asia. This move reinforces Astra Fintech’s long-term commitment to the Korean market, which has already established a strong presence by actively engaging in local blockchain ecosystems. Notably, the company served as a key partner of Solana Korea earlier this quarter and picked up a handful of prominent projects, including Mulex Protocol, Depe, etc.

A Strong Foundation in Korea
Ahead of its Korea HQ launch, Astra Fintech actively demonstrated its dedication to the Korean blockchain community through high-impact engagements. As a prominent sponsor of Seoulana, a premier Solana-focused hackathon, the company reinforced its commitment to supporting the growth of the Solana ecosystem. At the event, Astra Fintech engaged with developers, investors, and blockchain enthusiasts, sharing its vision for PayFi—a next-generation financial solution built on high-performance blockchain infrastructure. The hackathon provided a strategic platform for the company to align its innovative roadmap with Solana’s mission to transform decentralized finance.

Accelerating Growth on Solana
With the new Korea HQ, Astra Fintech is poised to deepen its involvement in the Solana ecosystem, leveraging its speed, scalability, and low transaction costs to deliver cutting-edge financial solutions. The company plans to explore DeFi, payments, and Web3 application opportunities, collaborating with local partners to drive adoption and integration.

“Korea is a critical hub for blockchain innovation, and our HQ launch reflects our commitment to this vibrant market,” said Jamie, Head of Partnership in Astra, “By aligning with Solana’s ecosystem and engaging with Korea’s world-class talent, we aim to pioneer next-generation fintech solutions that bridge traditional and decentralized finance.”

Strategic Vision for Korea and Beyond
Establishing the Korea HQ signals Astra Fintech’s ambition to expand its regional influence, with plans to invest in local talent, form strategic partnerships, and participate in Korea’s dynamic blockchain regulatory landscape. The company’s long-term roadmap includes:
- Enhancing Solana-based infrastructure for Korean and global users.
- Launching localized fintech products tailored to Korea’s tech-savvy population.
- Strengthening community engagement through events, hackathons, and educational initiatives.
As Astra Fintech solidifies its presence in Korea, the company remains focused on driving innovation at the intersection of finance and blockchain, positioning itself as a key player in Asia’s digital economy.

About Astra Fintech
Astra Fintech is a Canada-based blockchain finance leader revolutionizing FinFra by bridging traditional and decentralized payments. As a strategic Solana ecosystem partner backed by Multicoin LPs, we deliver secure, borderless PayFi solutions while driving innovation through investments in next-gen financial infrastructure.
X: https://x.com/AstraFintech

Contact:
Connie
contact@astra.holdings

Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by Astra Fintech. 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/3c5e19c1-d2e5-4d43-a54f-8eedb3667906

The MIL Network –
May 12, 2025
MIL-OSI China: China, US announce measures to ease tariff tensions

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

China and the United States announced here Monday a series of tariff modification measures aimed at easing trade tensions between the world’s two largest economies.

The decision followed a two-day China-U.S. high-level meeting on economic and trade affairs, where both sides recognized the importance of their bilateral economic and trade relationship to both countries and the global economy, a joint statement said, noting that both sides emphasized the need for a sustainable, long-term and mutually beneficial economic and trade relationship.

According to the statement, the United States will place a 90-day pause on 24 percentage points of the additional ad valorem rate of duty on articles of China (including articles of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Macau Special Administrative Region) starting from April 2, while retaining the remaining rate of 10 percent on those articles. It will also remove the additional tariff rates on imports from China announced on April 8 and 9 respectively.

According to the Executive Order 14259 issued on April 8 by the White House, the United States raised “reciprocal” tariff rate on China to 84 percent. One day later, the White House in another executive order hiked rate to 125 percent.

Ad valorem tax is a tax based on the assessed value of assets, goods or services being taxed.

China will modify accordingly the application of the additional ad valorem rate of duty on articles of the United States set forth in Announcement of the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council No. 4 of 2025, by suspending 24 percentage points of that rate for an initial period of 90 days, while retaining the remaining additional ad valorem rate of 10 percent on those articles.

It will remove the modified additional ad valorem rates of duty on those articles imposed by the No. 5 and No. 6 announcements issued by the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council on April 9 and 11 respectively.

China will also adopt all necessary administrative measures to suspend or remove the non-tariff countermeasures taken against the United States since April 2, 2025.

The two sides commit to take the actions by May 14.

The two sides will also establish a mechanism to continue discussions about economic and trade relations. These discussions may be conducted alternately in China and the United States, or a third country upon agreement of the Parties, the statement said.

MIL OSI China News –

May 12, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Camping boom ignites outdoor industry growth across China

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

On a crisp April morning, Pan Rongfeng, a middle school teacher in his 30s, pulled up to a verdant campsite at the foot of Daming Mountain, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, before unloading his dog and a panoply of camping gear from his car.

It was a cherished holiday ritual for Pan as he took to the great outdoors to savor his time off.

“Over the past two years, more and more people around me have started to turn to campsites for a little escape from urban life,” said Pan. “As long as the weather is agreeable, I love to gather outdoors to unwind.”

In recent years, once a niche hobby, camping has broken into the mainstream across China, transforming the way people pursue quality time in their leisure.

Data from Meituan, a leading life services provider, highlighted the trend. During this year’s Tomb-Sweeping Day, a traditional Chinese holiday where people are entitled to a block of days off, searches for “campgrounds” in Guangxi skyrocketed 50 percent over the same period of last year.

The allure of such outdoor activity has not gone unnoticed on Chinese social media, with many camping-related posts amassing millions of views.

On rednote, a Chinese lifestyle app and the country’s version of Instagram, the popularity of notes titled “camping tips” and “campsite recommendations” continued to rise before and during the five-day Labor Day holiday, while short-video platforms like Douyin have logged billions of plays for relevant content.

At a riverside park in Nanning, weekend campers packed the vast grassy field, with latecomers like Huang Xiaqing, a Nanning local, struggling to find a big enough space to settle her family and friends.

“If you arrive here half past nine on a weekend morning, it can be a huge hassle to find a spot to put up your tent,” said Huang. “That has almost always been the case since we began this holiday ritual one year ago.”

Wei Wanqing, a sociology professor with East China Normal University in Shanghai, believes that the growing appeal of camping has extended far beyond the scope of social media influencers doing location check-ins and boosting their online traction by sharing outdoor lifestyle photos.

“Families are increasingly embracing it as a way to bond and create shared memories,” said Wei.

In recent years, camping, driven by the dual appeal of reconnecting with nature and fostering greater social connection, has gradually become a prominent element in China’s cultural and tourism landscape while giving rise to a burgeoning industry in the country.

According to iiMedia Research, the growing appetite for camping generated about 213.97 billion yuan (about 29.69 billion U.S. dollars) in 2024, with projections of continued growth in 2025, as the booming sector has also helped catalyze the growth of related businesses.

At a store specializing in outdoor gear in Nanning, Lyu Hongping, the shop owner, saw a 30 percent annual revenue spike over the past three years, fueled by various demands for camping and hiking equipment.

“Camping has gone from a niche pastime for some to something that has attracted an increasing number of people from all walks of life,” said Lyu.

The influx of campers has a ripple effect, bringing in revenues for the local economy through increased patronage of nearby restaurants, rental shops and tourist attractions, noted Hong Tao with the China Consumer Economics Society.

“Some of the campsites serve as a one-stop shop that offers everything from essential outdoor gear to personalized travel arrangements,” said Hong.

On Chinese e-commerce giant Taobao, a simple keyword search for “camping” would yield many relevant results, with many of the top sellers like waterproof mats, folding tables, and hammocks flying off the virtual shelves, some logging over 100,000 units sold in total and more than 1,000 daily purchases.

A recent consultancy report suggested that there has been a trend toward adding more eye-popping and tech-laden equipment and products, such as foldable outdoor projection screens and in-vehicle fridges, among modern-day campers.

Research highlights that the traditional style of “roughing it” with canvass tents and sleeping bags has given way to “glamping”, a new form of camping that involves more amenities and comforts, as camping has transformed from a budget-friendly alternative to traditional travel to a highly customized activity that caters to different outdoor pursuits.

Xu Luyuan, a professor at Guangxi University of Finance and Economics, saw the rise of experience economy like camping as an indication of an exciting shift away from the “Daka” tourism, where tourists rush through cities and tick off as many attractions as possible within a limited timeframe, in favor of a form that focuses more on immersive experiences.

“It meets the growing demand among Chinese consumers for more personalized, experiential leisure pursuits, and helps drive up domestic consumption and charges up the integration of culture into tourism,” said Xu.

However, the surge in campers has put nature’s accommodating capacity to the test. Striking a balance between economic gains and environmental sustainability is a key challenge for the emerging sector to scale.

In response to the concern regarding the environmental impact of the rapid expansion of the camping economy, local authorities across the country have taken proactive steps by introducing guidelines to promote responsible camping practices that prioritize environmental protection and safety.

“Camping isn’t just a fad,” said Hong, who is convinced that with a focus on establishing a model that emphasizes differentiated services and supply-chain coordination, along with clear policy guidance, the sector can evolve beyond transient craze and become a lasting growth area for the country’s economy.

MIL OSI China News –

May 12, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: View from The Hill: Albanese shifts Tanya Plibersek from environment, in favour of ‘can-do’ Murray Watt

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

The reshuffle announced by Anthony Albanese is a mix of continuity and change, with those in the government’s top rank staying in their previous ministries, as the prime minister had earlier flagged, but some big movements down the line.

Tanya Plibersek, in the past a left factional rival to Albanese, has received what many see as another hospital pass, moving from environment and water to social services.

But her new portfolio does include domestic violence, a policy passion of hers, and is less tricky in terms of her left-leaning electorate than her previous post.

Plibersek’s former portfolio is taken by Murray Watt, a can-do Queenslander who is likely to speed up development approvals.

His appointment will be welcomed by the development-oriented Western Australian Labor government, which played a key role in frustrating Plibersek’s attempt to get a deal with the crossbench on the “nature positive” legislation.

Watt’s previous post of employment and workplace relations – which he held for less than a year – goes to Amanda Rishworth, formerly in social services.

After the sensational factional removal of Mark Dreyfus, the prized attorney-general position goes to Michelle Rowland, who was communications minister. Rowland was a senior telecommunications lawyer with Gilbert + Tobin, but lacks Dreyfus’ distinguished legal background.

Ed Husic, also the victim of the factional power play in the right, is replaced by Tim Ayres, from the left, in both cabinet and the industry portfolio. Ayres, formerly an assistant minister, is a close confidant of Albanese.

On another front, the Muslim Husic is replaced in cabinet by another Muslim, Anne Aly, promoted from the outer ministry, and taking a grab bag of responsibilities: small business, international development and multicultural affairs.

Aly’s promotion may partially soothe the Muslim voices who have reacted sharply to Husic’s treatment. The Jewish community will be less placated: with the demise of Dreyfus there is no Jew in the ministry. Josh Burns, who is Jewish, has been made a special envoy for social housing and homelessness.

The post of special envoy for social cohesion has been scrapped – Albanese said “we will continue to work as a whole government of social cohesion”.

Sam Rae, a numbers man for Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles, whom Marles shoehorned into the ministry, becomes minister for aged care and seniors, a testing job for a man who made his reputation in running Labor campaigning.

One of the most potentially significant moves is the shift of the National Disability Insurance Scheme to come under Health Minister Mark Butler.

In the last term Bill Shorten, father of the scheme, who was responsible for the NDIS and government services, undertook significant reform of the NDIS, which had become a sink for money.

Albanese told his news conference the NDIS belonged with health. The question is whether Butler will continue to drive the reform process, which still has a significant way to go. The junior minister for the NDIS will be Jenny McAllister, praised by Albanese for her grasp of detail.

Anika Wells, who was put in cabinet in January, continues up the escalator, moving from aged care to communications.

She will still hold sport. She comes from Queensland, which is preparing for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, and Albanese is anxious for continuity in the role. Responsibility for sport is being moved from the Department of Health to the Department of Infrastructure.

Some sources question the linkage of communications and sport as presenting potential conflicts of interest, given the communications portfolio deals with gambling advertising and broadcast rights.

Tony Burke remains in home affairs but will get responsibility for the Australian Federal Police and ASIO, which came under Dreyfus (originally both were in home affairs under the Liberals).

But the attorney-general will be “cross sworn” into both agencies. Albanese said there had been issues about information-sharing during the so-called caravan incident. This was a reference to the criminal hoax involving a caravan found in Sydney filled with explosives, when there were problems in communications between various state and federal agencies.

Newcomer to the ministry Daniel Mulino, from the Victorian right, who has a PhD in economics from Yale, was an obvious choice for assistant treasurer, in the outer ministry. Andrew Charlton, former economic adviser to Kevin Rudd, has been appointed cabinet secretary and an assistant minister.

Another new minister, Jess Walsh, takes early childhood education and youth, in the outer ministry.

The highly qualified Andrew Leigh continues as an assistant minister. His failure to be promoted is the price for not being in a faction. He will be assistant minister for productivity, competition, charities and treasury – dropping employment but adding productivity.

Given treasurer Chalmers’ current emphasis on productivity, this should give some more scope to Leigh.

One notable new special envoy post is for men’s health, which goes to Dan Repacholi, a champion sporting shooter.

Nationals re-elect leader David Littleproud

Nationals leader David Littleproud has retained the leadership, holding off a challenge from Senator Matt Canavan, who called for a drastic realignment of policy including ditching the 2050 net zero emissions commitment.

Kevin Hogan was elected deputy. A supporter of Littleproud, he replaces Perin Davey, who lost her Senate seat at the election.

The Nationals do not release vote numbers.

Bridget McKenzie remains Senate leader of the party.

Littleproud said the party would review “all our policies”.

A major issue is whether it will hold to the 2050 commitment, about which there is considerable internal scepticism.

Michelle Grattan 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. View from The Hill: Albanese shifts Tanya Plibersek from environment, in favour of ‘can-do’ Murray Watt – https://theconversation.com/view-from-the-hill-albanese-shifts-tanya-plibersek-from-environment-in-favour-of-can-do-murray-watt-255963

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

May 12, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More local family homes needed for children in care in Plymouth
Source: City of Plymouth

There are currently 534 children in care in Plymouth who all need a safe and loving environment to call home.

Plymouth City Council is urgently appealing for more local people to consider becoming a foster carer, as a spotlight is shined on the benefits of fostering thanks to Foster Care Fortnight (12 to 25 May).

Foster for Plymouth, the Council’s own not-for-profit fostering service, helps children to live locally. When there is a shortage of local placements, children have to live in residential homes or with fostering families outside of Plymouth, which means they’re separated from their friends, family, school and other trusted professionals that they may be used to working with.

This can negatively impact children and young people’s wellbeing and make a difficult time that much harder.

Foster for Plymouth currently only has 119 fostering households, as well as 32 kinship carers (family or friends who care for a child they know), and is actively asking residents to consider fostering.

Councillor Jemima Laing, Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care, said: “Foster Care Fortnight gives us a fantastic opportunity to thank and celebrate all our foster carers for all the hard work they do supporting children and young people.

“It’s also a fantastic opportunity for us to promote fostering to our residents. If fostering is something you’re at all interested in, I would really encourage you to reach out to our fantastic team to ask any questions or visit our website to find out more about what’s involved. You could make a huge difference to a child’s life.”

There are less barriers to being a foster carer than many people realise. To be considered, you need to be over the age of 21, have a spare room and be genuinely invested in supporting the wellbeing of children and young people.

There are different types of fostering that may suit different lifestyles, including:
- Time-limited fostering: Short term care that could last for a few days, weeks or even months, giving stability to a child or young person while decisions are made about their future
- Permanent fostering: A long-term commitment if a child or young person is unable to return to their birth family, looking after them until they reach adulthood
- Emergency fostering: Caring for children in an emergency scenario for a brief period (up to two weeks)
- Respite fostering: Caring for children for a few nights at a time to give the child’s longer-term carer a break
- Parent and child fostering: Opening your home to a child and their parents, supporting them while an assessment is carried out
- Step Forward fostering: Helping a child or young person with higher needs, such as behaviour challenges, out of residential care.
Foster for Plymouth offer a range of benefits, including generous financial allowances. Carers are paid between £350 and £779 per child, per week, depending on the child’s age and individual needs, or more for the Step Forward scheme.

This payment includes a weekly allowance to cover the costs of caring for a child or young person as well as a reward payment.

Carers also receive additional payments to pay for birthdays and birthday parties, holidays, religious festivals (such as Christmas) and even proms.

Many foster carers are also eligible for a 50 per cent Council Tax discount, or full exemption. This applies even to foster carers who live outside of the Plymouth City Council boundaries.

In addition to financial support, there’s also a comprehensive package of practical and emotional support on offer. This includes in-depth training and development, peer support, help from a dedicated supporting social worker, an online portal with 24/7 access to key information and regular social events.

If you’re interested in finding out more, visit fosterforplymouth.co.uk, email [email protected] or call 01752 308762.
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
May 12, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The hidden health risks of lip fillers

Source: Anglia Ruskin University

A woman undergoing a lip filler procedure

By Jim Frame, Anglia Ruskin University

Plump, pouty lips are everywhere – from social media filters to celebrity red carpets. But behind the glossy aesthetic of lip fillers lies a growing concern among medical professionals.

While increasing numbers of people in the UK – often young women – are opting for dermal fillers to achieve a fuller look without surgery, the rise of overfilled “trout pouts” and stiff “duck lips” has sparked a wave of alarm, even among those who might typically support cosmetic treatments.

Lip fillers are far from risk-free – and in some cases, the health consequences are permanent.

Unlike surgical procedures, lip fillers are not legally considered medical treatments. That means they are largely unregulated, and in many cases, are being injected by people with little or no medical training.

This is a problem, because lips are delicate and highly mobile. They contain very little natural fat and rely on a ring of tiny muscles to express everything from joy to concern. Injecting too much filler, or using the wrong kind, can interfere with these muscles – leaving the lips stiff, unnatural, or even immobile.

While some patients seek lip fillers for genuine medical reasons, such as facial palsy or disfigurement, these are exceptions. For most, the health risks can outweigh the cosmetic benefits.

What are fillers made of?

The substances used in lip fillers have changed over time. Older materials such as liquid silicone were eventually phased out due to serious complications, including scarring and migration of the product to other parts of the body.

Today, most lip fillers are made from hyaluronic acid (HA) – a substance that naturally exists in our bodies, particularly in connective tissue. HA attracts water, giving the skin volume and keeping it hydrated. As we age, our natural levels of HA decrease, which is why skin becomes drier and loses firmness.

The HA used in fillers is either extracted from animal tissue, such as rooster combs, or produced synthetically using bacteria. While this modern version is safer than older fillers, it still carries risks including allergic reactions, reactivation of cold sores (herpes simplex virus), infections and inflammation.

There have also been rare, but severe, cases of vascular complications such as blindness and tissue death, when fillers accidentally enter blood vessels.

The risk to kidneys

Less widely known – but equally concerning – is how repeat filler use may affect internal organs, particularly the kidneys.

Hyaluronic acid isn’t just a skin plumper – it also plays a role in the immune system. When the body detects inflammation, such as from repeated filler injections, it can respond by producing HA in the kidneys. This triggers a chain reaction: first, the kidneys produce high-molecular weight HA, which increases inflammation. Later, they switch to low-molecular weight HA, which reduces inflammation but causes fibrosis, or scarring of the tissue.

This double-edged response has been linked to chronic kidney disease and, in severe cases, even renal failure. Researchers are still exploring these links, but the risks become more significant with each repeated injection – especially in people who are genetically or medically vulnerable.

HA can also contribute to the formation of calcium oxalate crystals in the kidneys. These can lead to kidney stones and further tissue damage, potentially causing lifelong complications.

Who should avoid lip fillers?

Given these risks, some people should approach fillers with extreme caution – or avoid them entirely. These include people with a history of kidney problems or allergic reactions to filler ingredients, recurrent cold sores, autoimmune conditions (like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis), diabetes or blood clotting disorders, and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Despite the risks, lip fillers remain widely accessible and heavily promoted – particularly to young people influenced by social media trends. Many undergo these treatments without fully understanding what they’re putting into their bodies.

So, what needs to change? First, better regulation. If lip filler injections were treated as medical procedures, stricter controls could help reduce botched treatments and serious complications.

Second, more education. Patients need to understand that just because something is “non-surgical” doesn’t mean it’s safe. Fillers are still foreign substances being injected into the body. They come with risks – and these risks can increase over time.

Lip fillers can offer subtle, beautiful enhancements when used sparingly and professionally. But when misused or overused, they can lead to lasting disfigurement, loss of function, and even serious internal health issues like kidney damage.

Beauty trends should never come at the cost of your health.

Jim Frame, Professor, School of Medicine, Anglia Ruskin University

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

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

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

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

May 12, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Support service gets thumbs up from SEND families

Source: City of Wolverhampton

The Wolverhampton Information, Advice and Support Service (IASS) plays a key role in helping families navigate complex processes such as Education, Health and Care Plans, school placements, and appeals.

Feedback from its most recent satisfaction survey found that over 98% of respondents were satisfied with the service, with families feeling more confident, knowledgeable, and involved in discussions and decisions regarding their children’s needs. Over 99% of respondents also recognised the service as a neutral and unbiased source of support.

Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “The IASS’s partnership with the council has been pivotal in enhancing services for families.

“By working closely with education, health, and social care partners, it ensures that families receive comprehensive and coordinated support through what can be a very complex process.

“This work has led to better understanding of children’s needs, improved relationships with schools, and more effective support systems, all of which positively impact the lives of children and young people with SEND in our city.

“Best of all, the service is free and families should be rest assured that they can access information, advice, and support from IASS without any financial burden – so, if you need any support with SEND services or processes, please don’t hesitate to reach out for it.”

For more information visit Wolverhampton Information, Advice and Support Service. To subscribe to its monthly newsletter, please visit E-bulletin – Wolverhampton Information, Advice and Support Service.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

May 12, 2025
MIL-OSI: Roam Launches Business eSIM Data Program, Supporting Global Connectivity
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Roam, a decentralized open wireless network, has rolled out its Business eSIM Data Program, launching with a key partnership with Bybit, a top-tier cryptocurrency exchange. This program, introduced after Roam’s successful debut on 12 major exchanges—including Bybit, Bitget, Gate.io, MEXC, and KuCoin—in March 2025, serves as a thank-you to the incredible support Roam received during its Token Generation Event (TGE). It delivers businesses fast, affordable, and seamless global internet access, wiping out costly roaming fees.

A Breakthrough for Global Businesses

The Business eSIM Data Program fuels Roam’s mission to build a decentralized global open wireless network. Crafted for businesses, it’s a game-changer for international travelers, remote workers, and global teams, especially in fast-moving sectors like Web3. Spanning over 180 countries, Roam’s enterprise-grade eSIM connects users to local networks instantly, providing reliable data without the hefty price tag of traditional roaming.

Key benefits of the Roam Business eSIM include:
- Global Reach, No Roaming Costs: Connects to local networks in over 180 countries, slashing roaming expenses by up to 80% compared to standard data plans.
- Uninterrupted Remote Work: Offers seamless access to platforms like Google, Gmail, X, and Web3 exchanges, keeping teams productive anywhere.
- Easy Setup: Works with any eSIM-compatible device and activates online—no physical SIM cards needed.
- Smart Management: A user-friendly admin dashboard lets businesses track budgets and manage costs effortlessly, perfect for multinational and Web3 teams.
How the Program Works

The Program is exclusive to verified business users, starting with employees of Roam’s exchange partners like Bybit. Those with a corporate email can claim a one-time eSIM benefit, which offers:
- No Expiration: Unused data rolls over to the next month.
- Automatic Accumulation: Monthly data adds to the existing balance automatically.
- Exclusive Access: The benefit is non-transferable and reserved for verified business users.
Once the free data runs out, users can add more through the Roam App. Activation requires an eSIM-compatible device and basic details, like email and IMEI, submitted online.

A Bold Step Toward a Connected World

The Bybit partnership kicks off Roam’s global push for the Business eSIM Data Program. This open initiative invites companies to join, equipping them with tools to work without borders and thrive in a globalized economy. By offering a cost-effective, unified data solution, Roam is streamlining operations and paving the way for a decentralized wireless future.

Businesses and professionals can dive into the Business eSIM Data Program at https://www.weroam.xyz/use/roam-business-esim-plan.

About Roam

Roam is a leader in decentralized connectivity, building a global wireless network that delivers seamless, secure, and cost-effective internet access through WiFi OpenRoaming and eSIM top-up services. By harnessing blockchain-based credentials, Roam enables small and medium-sized businesses to adopt WiFi OpenRoaming, creating a network of over 8 million hotspots across 200 countries. With 2.6 million app users, Roam is the world’s largest decentralized wireless network, empowering users to access free eSIM data while contributing to and validating WiFi nodes. As a trusted eSIM solution, Roam has powered seamless data connectivity for major Web3 events, including Consensus Hong Kong 2025, Hong Kong Web3 Festival 2025, and the R3AL WORLD Summit, cementing its role as a pioneer in the DePIN sector.

For More Information, Please Visit:

Contact:
Nigel Nie
info@weroam.xyz
nigel@metablox.io

Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by Roam. 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/f42b1f9c-c39e-424f-a2c5-eeed99328457

The MIL Network –
May 12, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Poll shows huge majority of Scots back rent controls and housing protections

Source: Scottish Greens

12 May 2025 Housing

Homes are for living in, not for profiteering.

More in Housing

The overwhelming majority of people in Scotland want rent controls to ensure rogue landlords cannot keep hiking rents, according to polling commissioned by the Scottish Greens.

The polling, carried out by Diffley, shows that 74% of people support rent controls and 83% believe that rents are too high compared to income levels in Scotland.

It also shows- that over two thirds (69%) support Green plans to force landlords to sell long-term derelict land and housing that they are sitting on.

Amendments proposed by Maggie Chapman MSP to the Housing (Scotland) Bill would create robust rent controls across Scotland, ensuring that rents can’t rise faster than incomes, if MSPs back them.

These protections put people over landlord profits, putting money back into people’s pockets and supporting renters through the ongoing cost of living crisis when bills and other costs are soaring.

Scottish Green MSP Maggie Chapman said:

“It is no wonder that there is such strong support for rent controls. The housing market is completely broken and it is renters who are paying the price. It underlines just how crucial it is that we take action.

“We’ve all seen how much damage is being done by rogue landlords who have been given carte blanche to line their pockets through massive rent increases.

“Not only does this hurt renters, often pushing them into poverty or even homelessness, but it hurts our economy as people have less money to spend.

“This is why the Scottish Greens implemented a rent freeze and eviction ban during Covid, saving people thousands of pounds, and it’s why we so strongly opposed the SNP ending the protections that we put in place afterwards.

“With the Housing Bill going through parliament we have the opportunity to stop the exploitation of renters and end rip-off rents. We must seize it.

“We must offer people and their families some financial stability, and less worry about losing the roof over their heads. Homes are for living in and not for profiteering. We need to make unaffordable rent hikes become a thing of the past.”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

May 12, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Boots on the Ground make a $164M Footprint

Source: Predator Free 2050

Predator Free 2050 Limited (PF2050 Limited or the Company) is celebrating remarkable contributions by the collective of predator free landscape projects nationwide. A target of $164M of non-government contribution to work on urban and rural land has been more than met in what is proving to be an unprecedented community effort. “The belief and commitment from communities is truly inspiring,” says PF2050 Limited Chair Denise Church. “Having so many people and organisations investing in the movement not only financially but also through in-kind support demonstrates the power of collective action toward achieving the Predator Free 2050 goal.”

The goal of eradicating rats, mustelids, and possums across two-thirds of Aotearoa New Zealand, the urban and rural areas where people live, work, and play, has morphed from an ambitious “moonshot” into a feasible proposition. Beyond financial backing, volunteer efforts have become an invaluable asset, uniting a generation in a shared purpose and delivering what would normally come with substantial costs.

The tireless efforts of projects with boots on the ground, and supported by PF2050 Limited, have proved that predators can be eliminated in urban and rural areas. Thanks to those efforts, as of 31 March 2025, communities have already contributed more than $164M in non-government support for 18 major projects since their inception. This meets a key target for community contribution and is a testament to the unwavering dedication of hundreds of Kiwis working on urban and rural land to protect Aotearoa New Zealand’s biodiversity before it’s too late. Support has come in the forms of cash, in-kind donations, and the value of volunteer labour, and it more than matches the PF2050 Limited contribution of $92M to this work.

Year after year, Predator Free 2050 projects have proven that, with a combined collective effort from communities, philanthropists, councils, and volunteers, people are willing to put more on the line to bring nature back to our communities and the places we live, work and play. From visible nature gains to economic and public health gains and strengthened communities, the payback is significant.

It is a great achievement so far, but to reach the PF2050 goal, more is needed. While PF2050 Limited and the projects it supports remain committed to sustaining momentum, they face the end of funding from Jobs for Nature and the Provincial Growth Fund. The collective of predator free projects and PF2050 Limited will be working to raise new funds to advance this essential work in our cities, towns, farms and forests and to develop even more efficient and scalable predator free approaches. So much has been achieved by the community already that it is unthinkable to let the momentum falter.

PF2050 Limited, a Crown-owned charitable company established in 2016, plays a pivotal role in this transformative movement. The Company focuses on supporting large-scale predator elimination projects and breakthrough scientific innovations, supporting professionally delivered, community-led initiatives, in its mission to address a critical biodiversity crisis. The Predator Free 2050 goal, a bold national commitment to eradicate possums, rats, and mustelids by 2050, has achieved remarkable funding success.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

May 12, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: US Should Drop ‘China Collapse’ Rhetoric, Cherish China’s Goodwill: Chinese Economist

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

BEIJING, May 12 (Xinhua) — The United States should cherish China’s goodwill and engage in sincere negotiations instead of spreading baseless rumors of “China’s collapse,” a Chinese economist wrote in an opinion piece provided to Xinhua News Agency, highlighting China’s strong economic performance this year.

“We should let facts, not slander, speak about the Chinese economy, and the world will make a fair judgment,” wrote Dong Yu, executive vice president of the Institute of China Development Planning at Tsinghua University, in an article titled “Fundamentals of China’s Economy from the Perspective of Macroeconomic Regulation.”

Citing China’s solid performance in economic growth, employment, price stability and the international balance of payments this year, the article says: “Few major economies in the world have managed to maintain stable performance in all four key areas as China has.”

Meanwhile, he wrote that US GDP contracted 0.3 percent in the first quarter of 2025 from the previous quarter on an annualized basis, and among other sluggish indicators, hiring at US companies slowed to its slowest pace in nine months in April of this year.

The article says that China has not underestimated the challenges that changes in the external environment pose to its domestic economy. It has recently introduced a number of additional policy measures to address both the direct and indirect effects of the tariff war.

“Many of the world’s leading investment institutions forecast robust growth for China’s economy in 2025, and also expect the country’s 15th Five-Year Plan to bring certainty to the development of not only China but the entire world,” the economist wrote.

In contrast, the US was aggressive in launching a tariff war, turning a blind eye to domestic issues, as if it did not need to consider the negative impact of such a war on its own businesses and population, the article says. “To this day, the US government has not introduced any systemic policies to ensure the welfare of the population, instead focusing its main efforts on partisan warfare and manipulation of capital markets.”

If a government does not plan long-term, lacks human capital and infrastructure support, has uncoordinated production and supply chains, and is not even a leader in automated manufacturing or robotics, then claims that it can revive manufacturing through tariffs are nothing more than a far-fetched narrative, Dong Yu wrote.

According to the article, recent moves in the US stock market do not indicate a restoration of confidence. “Instead, they reflect the view of international capital that China has not abandoned its goodwill or closed the door to negotiations.”

“Of course, such good will and patience will not be unlimited, and will be absolutely inapplicable to those who persist in shameless coercion, extortion and denial of obligations,” the economist wrote.

What the US really needs now is to value China’s goodwill, demonstrate its sincerity and genuinely engage in negotiations, rather than pinning its hopes on baseless rhetoric about a “collapse of the Chinese economy” that, according to the article, will never materialize. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 12, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Transport – Driver well-being a key issue in survey

Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

Health, safety and wellbeing are big concerns for the road freight industry, a major survey of the sector has found.

The 2025 National Road Freight Industry Survey of 194 industry participants across 128 road freight businesses was run by Research NZ on behalf of advocacy group Transporting New Zealand. The survey was also promoted by the New Zealand Heavy Haulage Association and Groundspread NZ and represents the most extensive industry snapshot in more than a decade.

A total of 78 per cent of respondents in the survey called for more purpose-designed rest stops for drivers, and 72 per cent said it was important for drivers to have a good work-life balance.

Finding new drivers and an aging workforce were also big issues for the sector. Almost one-half of industry respondents (47 per cent) indicated that “up to 25 per cent” or more would retire or leave the industry in the next five years.

The survey painted a gloomy picture for business at the moment – only 34 per cent of those surveyed expected their financial situation to improve over the next 12 months, and only one in four respondents reported having sustainable operating margins.

Concerns about the state of New Zealand’s roads were nearly universal. The vast majority (93 per cent) agreed that poor road maintenance is putting truck drivers and other road users at risk. A significant number (84 per cent), believed that regional roads and bridges are neglected, and that delays in replacing the Cook Strait ferries pose a major risk (79 per cent).

However, one bright spot in the survey for truck drivers is how the public sees them.

While freight industry people believe the public have a negative perception of professional drivers, that is not the case. A poll of 1000 New Zealanders conducted by Research NZ painted a more favourable picture, with 52 per cent saying they view professional road freight drivers positively; and only 7 per cent expressing a negative view. (Only 20 per cent of industry people had thought the public viewed them positively.)

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

May 12, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: What They’re Saying: LaMalfa Introduces Forest Protection and Wildland Firefighter Safety Act

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Doug LaMalfa 1st District of California

Washington, D.C.—Yesterday, Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-Richvale) introduced H.R. 3300, the Forest Protection and Wildland Firefighter Safety Act of 2025, to ensure aerial fire retardant remains available for wildfire suppression efforts without being tied up in Clean Water Act permitting delays. The bipartisan bill clarifies that federal, state, local, and tribal firefighting agencies do not need a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit to use fire retardant from aircraft when responding to wildfires. The bill, introduced alongside Reps. Panetta (D-CA) and Hurd (R-CO), has already earned strong support from local leaders, here’s what they’re saying:

Travis Joseph, President/CEO, American Forest Resource Council: “The Forest Protection and Wildland Firefighter Safety Act gives wildland firefighters the tools they need to protect lives, communities, and forests from catastrophic wildfire. It will prevent unnecessary litigation that could block the aerial use of fire retardants—one of the most effective tools we have to slow the spread of fast-moving fires. This commonsense bill, paired with proactive, science-based forest management, is essential to confronting our nation’s growing wildfire and smoke crisis. With another dangerous fire season approaching, Congress must act swiftly to pass the Forest Protection and Wildland Firefighter Safety Act. We cannot afford to let our forests burn while proven suppression and management tools are tied up in red tape.”

Matt Dias, President and CEO, Calforests: “Maintaining healthy forests supports the economy in Northern California and beyond and safeguards communities at risk from catastrophic wildfire, but prevention is not enough. Fire retardants have played an integral role in stopping some of the most devastating wildfires in recent history, and the Forest Protection and Wildland Firefighter Safety Act will ensure our wildland firefighters continue to have access to this critical firefighting tool. I urge Congress to pass the Forest Protection and Wildland Firefighter Safety Act to safeguard aerial fire retardants, which is ultimately a decision to prioritize lives, land, businesses, and forested environments.”

Tod Kimmelshue, Chair Butte County Board of Supervisors: “Butte County knows first-hand the destruction that wildfire can bring to our communities. It’s essential that fire fighters have the ability to use fire retardant to protect lives and communities.”

Chris Edwards, President, Oregon Forest Industries Council: “Oregon is home to some of the most productive forests in the world, but the severe wildfire seasons in recent years have made it clear that many of these landscapes are increasingly vulnerable and at risk. In order to maintain this treasured resource for recreation, for key species habitat, and for the production of renewable building materials, the agencies that are responsible for keeping our communities and forests safe during wildfire season must have every tool in the toolbelt available for use. The Forest Protection and Wildland Firefighter Safety Act is a perfect example of commonsense legislation that will facilitate the timely and effective use of one of the most essential suppression tools available to us. We urge Congress to take quick and decisive action in passing this Act.”

Doug Teeter, Butte County Supervisor: “The health, welfare, and economic prosperity of the residents of Butte County, along with many other rural communities, are uniquely reliant on—and impacted by—the Forest Service’s wildfire suppression efforts, which is why I am urging Congress to pass the Forest Protection and Wildland Firefighter Safety Act to allow the Forest Service to continue deploying aerial fire retardants.”

Paul Petersen, Executive Director of the United Aerial Firefighters Association (UAFA): “UAFA is deeply troubled by efforts to restrict the use of aerially applied fire retardant through legal challenges. At a time when wildfires are expanding rapidly into the Wildland-Urban Interface where communities are at greater risk, fire retardant is a proven, essential tool in assisting wildland firefighters in their fight to contain, control and defeat wildfire. The tools that slow or stop the spread of wildfire are critical to protecting lives and property. As this lawsuit threatens to continue into its third year, UAFA strongly supports Congressman LaMalfa and Senator Lummis’ legislation, the Forest Protection and Wildland Firefighter Safety Act of 2025, which allows the federal, states, and tribal governments to continue the use of aerially applied fire retardants.”

Bill Connelly, Rural County Representatives of California, Butte County Representative: “Aerial fire retardant is one of the most effective wildfire suppression tools in our firefighting arsenal. Its swift application can stop a wildfire from becoming catastrophic — saving lives, property, and landscapes. The Forest Protection and Wildland Firefighter Safety Act will safeguard this critical tool for firefighting agencies, ultimately protecting our families, businesses, and communities.”

Greg Bolin, Town of Paradise, California: “No one knows the damage that wildfires can cause more so than communities like mine. We lost our town to one of the biggest fires in California history, so securing access to aerial fire retardants for wildfire suppression is a very personal issue for us. Our brave firefighters need every tool in the toolbox to protect human lives and property against wildfires, and the Forest Protection and Wildland Firefighter Safety Act would significantly move the needle in that effort.”

Congressman Doug LaMalfa is Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus and a lifelong farmer representing California’s First Congressional District, including Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Shasta, Siskiyou, Sutter, Tehama and Yuba Counties.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

May 12, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Full text: Joint Statement on China-U.S. Economic and Trade Meeting in Geneva

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

Full text: Joint Statement on China-U.S. Economic and Trade Meeting in Geneva

GENEVA, May 12 — China and the United States on Monday released a joint statement on China-U.S. Economic and Trade Meeting in Geneva.

The following is the English translation of the full text of the joint statement:

Joint Statement on China-U.S. Economic and Trade Meeting in Geneva

The Government of the People’s Republic of China (“China”) and the Government of the United States of America (the “United States”),

Recognizing the importance of their bilateral economic and trade relationship to both countries and the global economy;

Recognizing the importance of a sustainable, long-term, and mutually beneficial economic and trade relationship;

Reflecting on their recent discussions and believing that continued discussions have the potential to address the concerns of each side in their economic and trade relationship; and

Moving forward in the spirit of mutual opening, continued communication, cooperation, and mutual respect;

The Parties commit to take the following actions by May 14, 2025:

The United States will (i) modify the application of the additional ad valorem rate of duty on articles of China (including articles of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Macau Special Administrative Region) set forth in Executive Order 14257 of April 2, 2025, by suspending 24 percentage points of that rate for an initial period of 90 days, while retaining the remaining ad valorem rate of 10 percent on those articles pursuant to the terms of said Order; and (ii) removing the modified additional ad valorem rates of duty on those articles imposed by Executive Order 14259 of April 8, 2025 and Executive Order 14266 of April 9, 2025.

China will (i) modify accordingly the application of the additional ad valorem rate of duty on articles of the United States set forth in Announcement of the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council No. 4 of 2025, by suspending 24 percentage points of that rate for an initial period of 90 days, while retaining the remaining additional ad valorem rate of 10 percent on those articles, and removing the modified additional ad valorem rates of duty on those articles imposed by Announcement of the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council No. 5 of 2025 and Announcement of the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council No. 6 of 2025; and (ii) adopt all necessary administrative measures to suspend or remove the non-tariff countermeasures taken against the United States since April 2, 2025.

After taking the aforementioned actions, the Parties will establish a mechanism to continue discussions about economic and trade relations. The representative from the Chinese side for these discussions will be He Lifeng, Vice Premier of the State Council, and the representatives from the U.S. side will be Scott Bessent, Secretary of the Treasury, and Jamieson Greer, United States Trade Representative. These discussions may be conducted alternately in China and the United States, or a third country upon agreement of the Parties. As required, the two sides may conduct working-level consultations on relevant economic and trade issues.

MIL OSI China News –

May 12, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Joint Statement on China-US Economic and Trade Meeting in Geneva

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

China and the United States on Monday released a joint statement on China-U.S. Economic and Trade Meeting in Geneva.

The following is the English translation of the full text of the joint statement:

Joint Statement on China-U.S. Economic and Trade Meeting in Geneva

The Government of the People’s Republic of China (“China”) and the Government of the United States of America (the “United States”),

Recognizing the importance of their bilateral economic and trade relationship to both countries and the global economy;

Recognizing the importance of a sustainable, long-term, and mutually beneficial economic and trade relationship;

Reflecting on their recent discussions and believing that continued discussions have the potential to address the concerns of each side in their economic and trade relationship; and

Moving forward in the spirit of mutual opening, continued communication, cooperation, and mutual respect;

The Parties commit to take the following actions by May 14, 2025:

The United States will (i) modify the application of the additional ad valorem rate of duty on articles of China (including articles of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Macau Special Administrative Region) set forth in Executive Order 14257 of April 2, 2025, by suspending 24 percentage points of that rate for an initial period of 90 days, while retaining the remaining ad valorem rate of 10 percent on those articles pursuant to the terms of said Order; and (ii) removing the modified additional ad valorem rates of duty on those articles imposed by Executive Order 14259 of April 8, 2025 and Executive Order 14266 of April 9, 2025.

China will (i) modify accordingly the application of the additional ad valorem rate of duty on articles of the United States set forth in Announcement of the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council No. 4 of 2025, by suspending 24 percentage points of that rate for an initial period of 90 days, while retaining the remaining additional ad valorem rate of 10 percent on those articles, and removing the modified additional ad valorem rates of duty on those articles imposed by Announcement of the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council No. 5 of 2025 and Announcement of the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council No. 6 of 2025; and (ii) adopt all necessary administrative measures to suspend or remove the non-tariff countermeasures taken against the United States since April 2, 2025.

After taking the aforementioned actions, the Parties will establish a mechanism to continue discussions about economic and trade relations. The representative from the Chinese side for these discussions will be He Lifeng, Vice Premier of the State Council, and the representatives from the U.S. side will be Scott Bessent, Secretary of the Treasury, and Jamieson Greer, United States Trade Representative. These discussions may be conducted alternately in China and the United States, or a third country upon agreement of the Parties. As required, the two sides may conduct working-level consultations on relevant economic and trade issues.

MIL OSI China News –

May 12, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Economic portfolio ministers

Source: Australian Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Industry

I’m grateful to the Prime Minister for the opportunity to continue to serve as Australia’s Treasurer.

I’m especially pleased to lead a really high‑calibre economic team alongside the re‑appointed Finance Minister Katy Gallagher.

I’m looking forward to working closely with Daniel Mulino as the new Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services.

Anne Aly will be an outstanding new Minister for Small Business, International Development and Multicultural Affairs.

Andrew Leigh will continue to do a terrific job in an expanded role as Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury.

We’ve got a big agenda on housing and I’m very keen to work with Clare O’Neil as Minister for Housing, Homelessness and Cities to deliver it.

These are outstanding colleagues with an abundance of talent, energy and intellectual horsepower.

This will be a very strong and effective economic team.

We’ve made welcome progress on the economy in our first term but there’s more work to do because people are under pressure and the global environment is uncertain.

I look forward to working alongside Katy, Anne, Andrew, Clare and Daniel to roll out our tax cuts for every taxpayer, build more homes, make our economy more productive and provide the responsible economic leadership that’s been a defining feature of our Labor Government.

MIL OSI News –

May 12, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Joint Statement on U.S.-China Economic and Trade Meeting in Geneva

US Senate News:

Source: The White House
Joint Statement on U.S.-China Economic and Trade Meeting in Geneva
The Government of the United States of America (the “United States”) and the Government of the People’s Republic of China (“China”),
Recognizing the importance of their bilateral economic and trade relationship to both countries and the global economy;
Recognizing the importance of a sustainable, long-term, and mutually beneficial economic and trade relationship;
Reflecting on their recent discussions and believing that continued discussions have the potential to address the concerns of each side in their economic and trade relationship; and
Moving forward in the spirit of mutual opening, continued communication, cooperation, and mutual respect;
The Parties commit to take the following actions by May 14, 2025:
The United States will (i) modify the application of the additional ad valorem rate of duty on articles of China (including articles of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Macau Special Administrative Region) set forth in Executive Order 14257 of April 2, 2025, by suspending 24 percentage points of that rate for an initial period of 90 days, while retaining the remaining ad valorem rate of 10 percent on those articles pursuant to the terms of said Order; and (ii) removing the modified additional ad valorem rates of duty on those articles imposed by Executive Order 14259 of April 8, 2025 and Executive Order 14266 of April 9, 2025.
China will (i) modify accordingly the application of the additional ad valorem rate of duty on articles of the United States set forth in Announcement of the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council No. 4 of 2025, by suspending 24 percentage points of that rate for an initial period of 90 days, while retaining the remaining additional ad valorem rate of 10 percent on those articles, and removing the modified additional ad valorem rates of duty on those articles imposed by Announcement of the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council No. 5 of 2025 and Announcement of the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council No. 6 of 2025; and (ii) adopt all necessary administrative measures to suspend or remove the non-tariff countermeasures taken against the United States since April 2, 2025.
After taking the aforementioned actions, the Parties will establish a mechanism to continue discussions about economic and trade relations. The representative from the Chinese side for these discussions will be He Lifeng, Vice Premier of the State Council, and the representatives from the U.S. side will be Scott Bessent, Secretary of the Treasury, and Jamieson Greer, United States Trade Representative. These discussions may be conducted alternately in China and the United States, or a third country upon agreement of the Parties. As required, the two sides may conduct working-level consultations on relevant economic and trade issues.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 12, 2025

MIL-OSI: Best Crypto Casinos UK: Find Out The Top Crypto Casino Of 2025! – JackBit Casino

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

LONDON, May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — After thoroughly assessing several options and setting up strict criteria to evaluate the best crypto casino in the UK, our expert team identified the top platforms excelling in game variety, bonuses, security, and user experience. Through our research and interactions with local players, we’ve narrowed it down to reveal the best crypto casinos in the UK that truly stand out, providing a remarkable and secure online gambling experience.

VISIT JACKBIT CRYPTO CASINO NOW!

Among them, JACKBIT stands out as a top contender for 2025, earning a 4.9/5 rating. Launched in 2022, this Bitcoin casino UK combines a no KYC policy, instant crypto transactions, and a vast library of over 6,600 games, making it a premier choice for online casino real money play. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore why JACKBIT is likely the best crypto casino UK, detailing its features, bonuses, games, and more. Ready to dive in? Join JACKBIT Casino to claim your welcome bonus and start playing!

JACKBIT: The Best Crypto Casino UK

JACKBIT satisfies all the criteria for the best crypto casino UK, making it our top recommendation for 2025. Established in 2022, JACKBIT operates under a Curacao eGaming license, ensuring compliance with international standards for fair play and security. Its no KYC policy allows UK players to register and play anonymously, a significant advantage for those prioritizing privacy in crypto gambling UK. Instant crypto withdrawals, processed in seconds, align with the expectations of a high-payout UK crypto casino, enabling players to access winnings without delay.

The platform’s welcome bonus—a 30% Rakeback + No KYC + 100 free spins with no wagering requirements—provides immediate value, allowing players to explore its extensive game library. Ongoing promotions, including VIP rakeback and tournaments, further enhance the Bitcoin casino bonus offerings. With over 6,600 games from 91 top providers and a comprehensive sportsbook, JACKBIT caters to every gaming preference, solidifying its position as a leading Bitcoin casino UK.

JACKBIT – The Top Crypto Casino UK for Fast Payouts

Since its launch in 2022, JACKBIT has likely redefined the best crypto casino UK experience with its innovative features and player-focused design. The no KYC policy is a game-changer, enabling UK players to sign up and play without submitting personal details, ensuring maximum privacy. As a crypto casino UK, JACKBIT processes cryptocurrency transactions instantly, allowing players to deposit, play, and withdraw winnings in minutes—a hallmark of new crypto casinos.

New players are greeted with a 30% Rakeback + No KYC + 100 free spins with no wagering requirements on select promotions, making it one of the most attractive Bitcoin casino bonuses available. Ongoing promotions include a VIP Rakeback Club with up to 30% rakeback, weekly giveaways with $10,000 prize pools, and Pragmatic Play’s Drops & Wins tournaments featuring a €2,000,000 prize pool, adding significant value for crypto gambling UK enthusiasts.

JACKBIT’s game library, powered by industry leaders like Pragmatic Play, Evolution Gaming, and Play’n GO, includes over 6,600 titles, from high-RTP slots to live dealer tables and a sportsbook covering 140+ sports. The platform’s sleek, intuitive interface, available in 10 languages including English, ensures accessibility for UK players. Advanced SSL encryption protects player data, and 24/7 customer support via live chat and email provides prompt assistance, making JACKBIT a standout UK crypto casino.

CLAIM YOUR 30% RAKEBACK + 100 FREE SPINS AT JACKBIT

Pros and Cons of JACKBIT Casino

To provide a balanced perspective, here are the advantages and potential drawbacks of JACKBIT as a crypto casino UK:

Pros:

Operates as a no KYC crypto casino, ensuring maximum privacy for UK players
Offers instant crypto deposits and withdrawals, ideal for crypto gambling UK
Features over 6,600 games, including slots, live dealers, and sports betting
Provides a 30% Rakeback + No KYC + 100 free spins with no wagering requirements
Supports 16+ cryptocurrencies for seamless, secure transactions
Delivers 24/7 multilingual customer support via live chat and email
Mobile-optimized platform for the best crypto casino UK gaming on the go
Includes high-payout games with competitive RTPs for online casino real money play

Cons:

As a relatively new platform (launched in 2022), it may lack the long-term reputation of older Bitcoin casinos UK
Some bonuses may have specific terms or wagering requirements to review
Traditional payment withdrawals (1-3 days) are slower than crypto transactions
Availability may be restricted in certain regions due to licensing limitations

How to Join JACKBIT – The Best Crypto Casino UK

Joining JACKBIT, likely the best crypto casino UK, is a quick and user-friendly process designed to get UK players gaming in minutes:

Visit JACKBIT Casino: Click here to navigate to JACKBIT Casino to access the sign-up page.
Create Your Account: Click “Sign Up” and enter an email address and password. The no KYC crypto casino policy eliminates the need for personal details, ensuring swift registration.
Make Your First Deposit: Go to the cashier, select a payment method (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Visa, or PayID), and deposit at least $10 or equivalent to qualify for the welcome bonus. For crypto, scan the QR code or copy the wallet address to send funds.
Claim Your Bonus: The bonus 100 free spins are credited instantly, ready for use on the best online casino slots like Gates of Olympus.
Start Playing: Explore 6,600+ games or bet on sports events, leveraging your Bitcoin casino bonus for online gambling.

Pro Tip: Verify your email and check the promotions page for the latest bonus codes to ensure seamless activation. Save your wallet address for quick future deposits to enhance your crypto casino UK experience.

How We Selected JACKBIT as the Best Crypto Casino UK

Our selection of JACKBIT as the best crypto casino UK involved a rigorous evaluation process tailored to the needs of UK players seeking crypto gambling UK. Below is a detailed breakdown of the key criteria we considered, each thoroughly assessed to confirm JACKBIT’s superiority:

Licensing and Regulation

JACKBIT likely holds a Curacao eGaming license, a respected authority ensuring compliance with fair play and security standards. We verified licensing details to confirm its legitimacy as a legitimate online casino.

Security Measures

Advanced SSL encryption and provably fair games protect player data and ensure transparent outcomes, critical for a crypto gambling site. Regular third-party audits by independent agencies verify game fairness, enhancing trust.

Game Variety and Quality

A diverse, high-quality game library is essential. JACKBIT’s 6,600+ games from 91 providers, including slots, table games, live dealers, and a comprehensive sportsbook, cater to all preferences, making it a versatile best online crypto casino.

Bonuses and Promotions

Generous, fair bonuses enhance value. JACKBIT’s welcome bonus 30% Rakeback + 100 free spins, with no wagering on select promotions, outshines competitors. Ongoing offers like VIP rakeback, weekly giveaways, and Drops & Wins tournaments add significant value.

Other Promotions

3+1 FreeBet
Bet Insurance
Social Media Bonuses
NBA Playoffs Cashback

Tournaments and Prize Pools
JACKBIT thrives on competition, offering exciting opportunities for players to join casino and sports tournaments with prize pools often reaching six figures. Key tournaments include:

Daily Tournament – 1,000 Free Spins
Weekly Tournament – Prize pool up to $10,000
Pragmatic Play’s Drops & Wins Campaign – Reward pool up to €2,000,000

Payment Methods

Support for multiple cryptocurrencies and traditional options ensures flexibility. JACKBIT’s 16+ cryptos (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana) offer instant, fee-free transactions, while Visa, PayID, and bank transfers provide alternatives. We evaluated transaction speeds, fees, and limits to confirm alignment with instant withdrawal casino standards.

Customer Support

Prompt, accessible support is vital. JACKBIT’s 24/7 live chat and email support in multiple languages ensure quick resolution of queries, from payment issues to bonus clarifications. We tested response times and support quality to verify reliability.

User Experience

A mobile-optimized, intuitive interface is key. JACKBIT’s responsive design, available in 10 languages, offers seamless navigation across devices, enhancing accessibility for online crypto casino play. We evaluated site performance, mobile compatibility, and user feedback.

Player Feedback and Reputation

Community insights from platforms like Trustpilot (4.4/5) highlight JACKBIT’s strengths in payout speed and game variety, though some note bonus term complexity (Trustpilot). We cross-referenced feedback to ensure alignment with the best Bitcoin casino claims.

Responsible Gambling Measures

Tools like deposit limits, session reminders, and self-exclusion are essential for player safety. JACKBIT likely provides these, ensuring a responsible crypto gambling UK environment. We assessed these measures to confirm ethical practices, critical for legit online casinos.

Market Position and Innovation

As a new crypto casino, JACKBIT’s adoption of emerging cryptocurrencies like Solana and provably fair games positions it as forward-thinking. We evaluated its technological advancements to ensure it meets modern online crypto casino demands.

JACKBIT’s likely exceptional performance across these criteria, particularly its no KYC crypto casino policy and instant withdrawals, solidifies its status as the best crypto casino UK for 2025, offering a secure, rewarding experience for UK players.

START WINNING WITH NO KYC AND INSTANT WITHDRAWALS AT JACKBIT!

Best Crypto Casino UK Games at JACKBIT

JACKBIT’s game library is likely a cornerstone of its best crypto casino UK status, offering over 6,600 titles from 91 providers, catering to every gaming preference. Below is a comprehensive overview of its offerings, optimized for online casino real money play:

Online Slots:

Gates of Olympus (Pragmatic Play, 96.50% RTP): A 6×5 mythological slot with tumbling reels, multipliers up to 500x, and a 5,000x max win, ideal for Bitcoin casino UK players seeking high payouts (Pragmatic Play).
Sweet Bonanza (Pragmatic Play, 96.49% RTP): A candy-themed 6×5 slot with a pay-anywhere system, tumble feature, and 21,175x max win, perfect for online casino real money enthusiasts (Pragmatic Play).
Book of Dead (Play’n GO, 96.21% RTP): A 5-reel, 10-payline adventure slot with expanding symbols in Free Spins, offering a 5,000x max win, popular for crypto gambling UK (Play’n GO).
Mega Moolah (Microgaming, 88.12% RTP): A progressive jackpot slot with multi-million-dollar payouts, a staple for online casino real money players chasing life-changing wins (Microgaming).
Wolf Gold (Pragmatic Play, 96.01% RTP): A 5-reel, 25-payline slot with stacked wilds, Money Respin feature, and a 5,000x max win, popular for Bitcoin casinos UK play (Pragmatic Play).
Starburst (NetEnt, 96.09% RTP): A 5-reel, 10-payline slot with expanding wilds and a 500x max win, known for vibrant visuals and frequent payouts (NetEnt).

Table Games:

Blackjack: Variants like Classic Blackjack, Multi-Hand, and European Blackjack offer low house edges (0.5% with optimal strategy), ideal for strategic online casino real money play. Players aim to beat the dealer with a hand close to 21 without busting.
Roulette: European (2.7% house edge), American, and French Roulette provide diverse betting options, from red/black to specific numbers, appealing to crypto gambling UK players seeking classic thrills.
Poker: Caribbean Stud, Three Card Poker, and Texas Hold’em offer skill-based gameplay with high payout potential, enhancing the best online crypto casino experience.
Baccarat: Classic and Punto Banco variants feature simple rules and competitive payouts, popular among high rollers.

Live Dealer Games: Over 250 live tables from Evolution Gaming, including:

Lightning Roulette: Multipliers up to 500x add excitement, with instant payouts via crypto, ideal for UK crypto casino players (Evolution Gaming).
Infinite Blackjack: Unlimited players with side bets for enhanced win potential, offering an immersive Bitcoin casino UK experience.
Crazy Time: A vibrant game show with interactive bonus rounds, perfect for online gambling for real money entertainment.
Baccarat Squeeze: Real-time dealer interaction with suspenseful card reveals, catering to online casino real money enthusiasts.

Sportsbook:

Covers 140+ sports, with 82,000+ monthly live events and 75,000+ pre-match events, including major leagues (NFL, NBA, Premier League), niche sports (table tennis, darts), and esports (CS:GO, Dota 2). Features like live betting, cash-out options, and 4,500+ betting types (e.g., over/under, parlays, player props) offer diverse online gambling for real money opportunities.

Specialty Games:

Scratch Cards: Quick-win games like Scratch Dice with instant payouts, ideal for casual online casino real money play.
Keno: Lottery-style games with customizable bets, offering simple crypto gambling UK fun.
Virtual Sports: Simulated events like virtual football or horse racing, providing fast-paced betting options for UK crypto casino users.

START WINNING NOW WITH A HUGE SELECTION OF GAMES AT JACKBIT!

This extensive, high-quality selection, regularly updated with new releases, likely positions JACKBIT as a leading best crypto casino UK, offering endless entertainment and winning opportunities for online casino real money players.

Best Crypto Casino UK Payment Methods at JACKBIT

JACKBIT’s payment system is likely designed for speed, security, and flexibility, making it a top no KYC crypto casino for online casino real money play in the UK. Below is a detailed overview of its payment options, emphasizing their benefits for crypto gambling UK users:

Payment Method	Type	Processing Time	Minimum Deposit	Notes
Bitcoin (BTC)	Cryptocurrency	Instant	$10	Fee-free, anonymous
Ethereum (ETH)	Cryptocurrency	Instant	$10	High security, smart contracts
Tether (USDT)	Cryptocurrency	Instant	$10	Stablecoin, low volatility
Solana (SOL)	Cryptocurrency	Instant	$10	Low fees, fast transactions
Binance Coin (BNB)	Cryptocurrency	Instant	$10	Versatile, ecosystem support
Visa/MasterCard	Traditional	Instant (deposits), 1-3 days (withdrawals)	$10	Familiar, widely accepted
PayID	Traditional	Instant (deposits), 1-3 days (withdrawals)	$10	Fast, linked to bank accounts
Bank Transfer	Traditional	1-5 days	$50	Suitable for high rollers
Skrill/Neteller	E-Wallet	Instant (deposits), 1-2 days (withdrawals)	$10	Secure, private transactions

Cryptocurrencies:

JACKBIT likely supports 16+ cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether, Solana, Binance Coin, and more, offering:

Instant Transactions: Deposits and withdrawals are processed in seconds, aligning with instant withdrawal casino standards.
Privacy: No KYC for crypto users ensures anonymity, a hallmark of no KYC crypto casinos.
Security: Blockchain technology provides transparent, tamper-proof transactions, reducing fraud risks.
Low Fees: Minimal or no transaction fees compared to traditional methods, maximizing returns for Bitcoin casino UK players.
For example, depositing Bitcoin involves selecting BTC in the cashier, scanning a QR code or copying the wallet address, and confirming the transaction, with funds appearing instantly.

Traditional Methods:

Visa/MasterCard: Instant deposits with a $10 minimum, widely accepted for online casino real money players. Withdrawals take 1-3 days, standard for traditional options, ensuring accessibility for those not using crypto.
PayID: A fast, secure method linked to bank accounts, offering instant deposits and withdrawals within 1-3 days, popular for PayID casino Australia transactions, though available globally where supported.
Bank Transfers: Suitable for larger transactions, with withdrawals taking 1-5 days and potential fees, less ideal for instant withdrawal casino needs, but reliable for high rollers seeking online gambling for real money.

E-Wallets:

Skrill and Neteller likely provide secure, private transactions without sharing bank details, with instant deposits and withdrawals within 1-2 days, enhancing the online casino real money experience. These are ideal for players preferring alternatives to crypto or cards.

JACKBIT’s crypto-centric approach, combined with traditional and e-wallet options, ensures flexibility and speed, making it a top best crypto casino UK for seamless online casino real money transactions. The no KYC policy for crypto users further streamlines the process, allowing UK players to focus on gaming rather than paperwork.

ENJOY FAST, SECURE TRANSACTIONS AND BIG WINS AT JACKBIT!

Why Choose Crypto Casinos UK?

Crypto casinos offer distinct advantages over traditional online casinos, making them a preferred choice for crypto gambling UK:

Privacy and Anonymity: No KYC crypto casinos like JACKBIT allow anonymous play, protecting player identities, a major draw for UK crypto casino enthusiasts.
Speed and Efficiency: Cryptocurrency transactions are near-instant, with deposits and withdrawals processed in seconds, compared to days for traditional methods, aligning with instant withdrawal casino expectations.
Enhanced Security: Blockchain technology ensures secure, transparent transactions, reducing fraud risks and enhancing trust in Bitcoin casinos UK.
Lower Transaction Costs: Crypto transactions typically have minimal or no fees, maximizing player returns compared to credit card or bank transfer fees, a key benefit for crypto casinos UK players.
Innovative Features: Crypto casinos often integrate provably fair games, allowing players to verify outcomes, a feature that enhances trust in the best online crypto casino platforms.
Global Accessibility: Cryptocurrencies bypass regional banking restrictions, making online crypto casinos accessible to UK players, subject to local regulations.

These advantages, coupled with JACKBIT’s robust offerings, position it as a leading new crypto casino for 2025, catering to the evolving needs of UK gamblers.

The Rise of Crypto Gambling UK: Why JACKBIT Leads

The crypto gambling market in the UK is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing cryptocurrency adoption and demand for privacy-focused gaming. Industry reports suggest the global crypto gambling market could reach $65 billion by 2027, with the UK contributing significantly due to its robust gambling culture. UK players are drawn to crypto gambling sites for their ability to offer fast, secure, and anonymous transactions, bypassing some of the restrictions associated with traditional banking methods.

JACKBIT likely leads this trend by combining cutting-edge technology with player-centric features. Its no KYC policy addresses privacy concerns, while support for emerging cryptocurrencies like Solana positions it as a forward-thinking Bitcoin casino UK. The 100% welcome bonus and extensive game library surpass industry standards, providing unmatched value. As cryptocurrency adoption continues to rise, JACKBIT’s innovative approach makes it a go-to UK crypto casino for players seeking a secure, rewarding experience.

Tips for Winning Big at JACKBIT

To maximize your success at JACKBIT, likely the best crypto casino UK, consider these expert strategies tailored for UK players seeking crypto gambling UK rewards:

Choose High-RTP Games:

Return to Player (RTP) percentages indicate a game’s long-term payout potential. Opt for slots like Gates of Olympus (96.50% RTP) or Book of Dead (96.21% RTP) available at JACKBIT, as they offer better odds for consistent returns, enhancing your Bitcoin casino UK winnings (Pragmatic Play).

Leverage Bonuses Wisely:

JACKBIT’s 30% rakeback and 100 free spins welcome bonus, with no wagering requirements, provide extra value. Use free spins on high-RTP slots to boost your crypto casino UK bankroll without risking your own funds. Check the promotions page regularly for exclusive Bitcoin casino bonus offers (JACKBIT Promotions).

Manage Your Bankroll:

Set a budget for each gaming session and stick to it. For example, allocate £50 per session and avoid exceeding it, ensuring prolonged playtime and better chances of hitting a win at this UK crypto casino.

Learn Game Strategies:

For skill-based games like blackjack or poker, study basic strategies to reduce the house edge. Online resources can help UK players improve their gameplay, increasing online casino real money returns at JACKBIT.

Participate in Tournaments:

Engage in Pragmatic Play’s Drops & Wins tournaments, offering a €2,000,000 prize pool. These events add excitement and potential rewards to your crypto gambling UK experience, with random cash drops and weekly competitions (Pragmatic Play Drops & Wins).

Bet Smart on Sports:

JACKBIT’s sportsbook covers 140+ sports, including football and esports. Research teams and use live betting options like over/under or parlays for higher payouts, leveraging the platform’s 4,500+ betting types (Silentbet).

Use Responsible Gambling Tools:

Set deposit, loss, and session time limits using JACKBIT’s tools to maintain control, ensuring a sustainable online gambling for real money experience.

Stay Informed:

Follow JACKBIT’s social media or subscribe to newsletters for exclusive Bitcoin casino bonus offers, such as additional free spins or cash rewards, to enhance your crypto casinos UK play (JACKBIT Twitter).

By applying these strategies, UK players can optimize their crypto casino UK experience at JACKBIT, increasing their chances of winning big while enjoying a safe and responsible gaming environment.

JACKBIT Conclusion: The Best Crypto Casino UK for 2025

After an exhaustive review of numerous crypto casinos UK, JACKBIT emerges as the best crypto casino UK for 2025. Its no KYC policy ensures maximum privacy, allowing UK players to enjoy anonymous gaming without compromising security. Instant crypto transactions, processed in seconds, provide unparalleled convenience, enabling players to deposit and withdraw funds swiftly, a hallmark of top Bitcoin casinos UK.

With an impressive library of over 6,600 games from 91 leading providers, JACKBIT offers something for every UK player, from high-RTP slots like Sweet Bonanza to live dealer tables and a comprehensive sportsbook covering 140+ sports, including Premier League football and esports like CS:GO. The generous welcome bonus of 30% rakeback and 100 free spins, with no wagering requirements, delivers immediate value, while ongoing promotions like VIP rakeback, weekly giveaways, and Drops & Wins tournaments enhance the crypto gambling UK experience.

JACKBIT’s support for 16+ cryptocurrencies, alongside traditional methods like Visa and PayID, ensures flexibility for UK players. Advanced SSL encryption and provably fair games guarantee a secure and transparent environment, while 24/7 customer support in English provides prompt assistance. The mobile-optimized platform allows seamless gaming on smartphones and tablets, making it accessible anywhere, anytime.

Moreover, JACKBIT’s commitment to responsible gambling, with tools like deposit limits, loss limits, and self-exclusion, ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all UK players. For those seeking the ultimate UK crypto casino experience, JACKBIT stands out as the top choice. Join JACKBIT Casino today to start your online casino real money journey with the best crypto casino UK!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes JACKBIT the best crypto casino UK?

JACKBIT combines no KYC privacy, instant crypto withdrawals, over 6,600 games, and a 30% rakeback bonus, making it ideal for UK players seeking crypto gambling UK.

Is JACKBIT legal for UK players?

Licensed by Curacao eGaming, JACKBIT is accessible to UK players, but users should verify compliance with local gambling laws for crypto casinos UK.

What cryptocurrencies does JACKBIT accept?

JACKBIT supports 16+ cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether, Solana, and Binance Coin, offering flexibility for Bitcoin casino UK transactions.

How fast are withdrawals at JACKBIT?

Crypto withdrawals are instant, while traditional methods like Visa or bank transfers take 1-3 days, ensuring quick access for UK crypto casino players.

Does JACKBIT offer a welcome bonus?

Yes, new players receive 30% rakeback and 100 free spins with no wagering requirements, enhancing the Bitcoin casino bonus experience.

What games are available at JACKBIT?

JACKBIT offers slots, table games, live dealers, and a sportsbook with 140+ sports, catering to diverse crypto gambling UK preferences.

Is there customer support at JACKBIT?

JACKBIT provides 24/7 live chat and email support in multiple languages, ensuring prompt assistance for crypto casino UK players.

How does the no KYC policy work at JACKBIT?

Crypto users can register and play anonymously without identity verification, a key feature of no KYC crypto casinos.

Are there fees for transactions at JACKBIT?

Crypto transactions are fee-free, while traditional methods may incur standard banking fees, typical for Bitcoin casinos UK.

What responsible gambling tools does JACKBIT provide?

JACKBIT offers deposit limits, loss limits, session time limits, and self-exclusion to promote safe crypto gambling UK practices.

Legal Disclaimer

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or gambling advice. All information is presented “as is,” with no warranties regarding accuracy or completeness. Readers are responsible for verifying information and ensuring compliance with local gambling laws. Gambling involves financial risk and potential addiction. Gamble responsibly, only wagering what you can afford to lose. Seek help from organizations like GamCare or BeGambleAware if needed. Some links may be affiliate links, earning a commission at no cost to you. JACKBIT is licensed outside the UK and may be restricted in certain regions.

Email: support@jackbit.com

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f6f4697c-5f86-443e-90cf-e416c3e025ef

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7d57038b-4d8b-40e3-8425-fc69ecdfa1e4

The MIL Network –

May 12, 2025

MIL-OSI Russia: China and Russia: Friendship between the two states begins with friendship between peoples

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

Recently, Chinese President Xi Jinping paid a state visit to Russia. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further deepening the comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation in the new era. It is especially important to hear such statements in the era of global instability. Russian-Chinese relations are not just diplomacy and economics, but also a history of sincere friendship, respect and mutual understanding. Having lived in China for more than five years, I realized that true friendship between countries begins with friendship between people.

Connecting Peoples – Beyond Economics and Trade

To truly understand another culture, information from books, travel or news is not enough, you need to experience it from the inside, through work, study and communication. For more than five years, China was my home, a place where I learned Chinese, gained valuable professional experience and made friends with whom I still maintain warm ties. China became a part of my identity: I learned to think more broadly, to see the world through the eyes of others and to appreciate differences. Over the years, I have seen that the relationship between China and Russia is not limited to economics and trade, they are connected by many human stories like mine.

The Language That Changed Lives

My first encounter with China was in 2006, when I visited Beijing on a tourist trip. Even then, it felt like the country was on the verge of big changes, although high-speed trains and large-scale international projects were still to come. When I returned to China in 2009 to study Chinese, I had no idea how important this choice would become. Chinese became for me not just a communication tool, but also a bridge between cultures and a powerful asset.

The work that opened up a whole world

Later, I got a job at a Chinese media outlet in Beijing, where I contributed to stories for overseas audiences. We covered Chinese innovations in agriculture, infrastructure development, poverty eradication, and the preservation of intangible cultural heritage. It was an invaluable experience: I saw China from different sides, not only through official data, but also through people’s stories, dreams, and aspirations. Each article became a new step toward mutual understanding.

Personal connections as a path to understanding

Every day, living and working in China, I admired the hard work of the Chinese people, their willingness to learn and develop. I saw how cities were changing rapidly, innovations were being introduced, and Chinese technologies were spreading around the world. This progress was impressive, but even more impressive was the human warmth. My friends and colleagues were interested in asking about Russia and sharing their stories. We exchanged experiences and views – it is these personal connections that, as I now understand, create a solid foundation for international relations.

Respect as the basis of trust

It was especially valuable to feel the respectful attitude towards Russia on the part of the Chinese. In contrast to the criticism that can often be heard in the West, in China I encountered genuine interest in Russia and admiration for Russian culture. This strengthened my confidence in the future partnership of our countries. It seems to me that it is respect, openness and trust that become the foundation of strong relations between states, starting from the level of ordinary people.

The Future in Dialogue: Language, Science, Culture

Today, Russian-Chinese relations go beyond traditional trade and economic cooperation, embracing science, education, and culture. Educational projects, scientific research, and academic exchanges play a special role. More and more young people are learning each other’s languages, which opens up new horizons and builds trust. Cultural exchanges – festivals, exhibitions, theater productions, film screenings – help to understand mentalities, strengthen interest and mutual sympathy. Art is becoming a universal language that overcomes barriers.

Strength lies in shared values

I have always been touched by the similarity of our cultural values: respect for elders, high value of education, hospitality. These common foundations, as I have understood from personal experience, are truly a strong foundation for the friendship of our peoples and countries.

Conclusion: Looking to the Future

Watching the development of Chinese-Russian relations today, I feel joy. For me, this is not just the history of two states, it is also the history of two peoples who want to understand and respect each other. I believe that we still have many joint steps ahead, each of which begins with dialogue, mutual interest and trust.

Author: Anna Buyanova

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 12, 2025

MIL-OSI: Diversified Energy Reports Strong First Quarter 2025 Results Driven by Increased Top-Line Revenue Generation and Operational Discipline

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Maintaining Momentum into Second Quarter 2025 and Remain on Track to Achieve Full Year 2025 Guidance

Closed Maverick Acquisition Continuing to Execute our Strategy as the PDP Champion

Returned Over $59 million to Shareholders Through Dividends and Repurchases Year to Date

BIRMINGHAM, Ala., May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diversified Energy Company PLC (LSE: DEC, NYSE: DEC) is pleased to announce the following operations and trading update for the quarter ended March 31, 2025.

**Consolidated operational & financial results for the quarter include only two weeks of Maverick Natural Resources (“Maverick”) contribution**

Executing Strategic Objectives

Closed transformational and accretive acquisition of Maverick Natural Resources
- Approximately doubling revenues and free cash flow
Strengthened balance sheet and increased liquidity
- Credit facility borrowing base of $900 million with $451 million of current undrawn capacity and unrestricted cash; current leverage ratio of ~2.7x
Retired $51 million of debt principal through amortizing debt payments during Q1 2025
Returned over $59 million year-to-date to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases^(a)
- Declared 1Q25 dividend of $0.29 per share
- Repurchased ~1.5 million shares year-to-date in 2025, representing ~$19 million of share buybacks^(a)
Advantageously added natural gas hedge volumes in 2026 through 2029 during recent strength in forward curve
On track to exceed $40 million in targeted land sales during the first half of 2025
Realized additional Coal Mine Methane (CMM) alternative energy credits with acquired assets from Summit Natural Resources
Next LvL Energy collaborated with the State of West Virginia regulatory agencies to modernize well retirement procedures using a method that is environmentally sound, safe, and cost-effective

Maverick Integration

Full field level integration anticipated by the end of the second quarter with technology, and administrative integration anticipated by the end of the third quarter 2025
On track to exceed the annualized synergy target of over $50 million
- High-graded staffing and reduced redundancies to capture efficiencies and cost savings
- Contract savings providing impacts in compression and chemicals

Delivering Reliable Results

March 2025 exit rate of 1,149 MMcfepd (192 Mboepd)^(b)
- Recorded average 1Q25 production of 864 MMcfepd (144 Mboepd)
Total Revenue, inclusive of settled hedges, of $295 million
Operating Cash Flow of $132 million, and Net loss of $337 million, inclusive of non-cash unsettled derivative adjustments
Achieved 1Q25 Adjusted EBITDA^(c) of $138 million and Free Cash Flow^(d) of $62 million
Realized 47% 1Q25 Adjusted EBITDA Margin^(c)
- 1Q25 Total Revenue, Inclusive of Settled Hedges per Unit^(e) of $3.78/Mcfe ($22.68/Boe)
- 1Q25 Adjusted Operating Cost per Unit^(f) of $2.00/Mcfe ($12.01/Boe)
Published the 5th annual Sustainability Report, “Winning Through Collaboration”

Rusty Hutson, Jr., CEO of Diversified, commented:

“Diversified is off to a great start in 2025, demonstrating the resilience of our business model in an otherwise volatile business environment while advancing our long-term strategy with the transformational acquisition of Maverick Natural Resources. Despite the broader macroeconomic and geopolitical challenges, we delivered solid operational results and continued growth in free cash flow.

We remain committed to effectively allocating capital. Thus far this year, Diversified has returned over $59 million to our shareholders through dividends and share repurchases, while we continue to deleverage naturally from principal paydowns of our debt. We believe our shares remain a compelling investment at current levels, and we will continue to take advantage of the current cycle and market dislocation to opportunistically repurchase shares.

At the same time, we have strategically invested in growing our business with our Maverick acquisition. We are highly focused on integration across all operations and functions of the organization, using the disciplined and methodical playbook we have historically executed to drive synergies and cost-saving initiatives that should provide margin expansion over time. We fully expect to exceed our annualized synergy target of $50 million.

Despite the current uncertain environment, the Diversified team, with our ONE DEC culture, continues to perform at a high level. Diversified has a proven track record of managing through challenging markets. I am confident that with our highly strategic initiatives, we will capitalize on opportunities and emerge from the current market as an even stronger company, ensuring continued growth and success.”

Operations and Finance Update

Production

The Company recorded exit rate production in March 2025 of 1,149 MMcfepd (192 Mboepd)^(b) and delivered 1Q25 average net daily production of 864 MMcfepd (144 Mboepd). Net daily production for the quarter continued to benefit from Diversified’s peer-leading, shallow decline profile.

The production for the quarter reflects the contribution of only two weeks of Maverick Natural Resources, which closed March 14th, 2025.

Margin and Total Cash Expenses per Unit

Diversified delivered 1Q25 per unit revenues of $3.78/Mcfe ($22.68/Boe) and Adjusted EBITDA Margin^(a) of 47% (55% unhedged). Notably, these per unit metrics reflect an increase in both revenues and expenses from the incorporation of greater liquids-related production of Maverick Natural Resources. The Company’s per unit expenses are anticipated to improve as the Company implements its playbook to achieve long-term, sustainable synergies and cost savings. For example, General and Administrative expenses remained relatively consistent with prior period levels, despite the higher per unit costs of Maverick, supporting our progress on cost savings and synergy capture.

	1Q25					1Q24
	$/Mcfe		$/Boe			$/Mcfe		$/Boe			%
Average Realized Price⁽¹⁾	$	3.78	$	22.68		$	3.25	$	19.50		16	%

	1Q25					1Q24
Adjusted Operating Cost per Unit^(f)	$/Mcfe		$/Boe			$/Mcfe		$/Boe			%
Lease Operating Expense⁽²⁾	$	0.92	$	5.49		$	0.65	$	3.91		40	%
Midstream Expense	$	0.23	$	1.40		$	0.27	$	1.61		(13	)%
Gathering and Transportation	$	0.34	$	2.06		$	0.31	$	1.85		11	%
Production Taxes	$	0.21	$	1.27		$	0.12	$	0.74		72	%
Total Operating Expense⁽²⁾	$	1.70	$	10.22		$	1.35	$	8.11		26	%
Employees, Administrative Costs and Professional Fees^(g)	$	0.30	$	1.79		$	0.33	$	1.98		(10	)%
Adjusted Operating Cost per Unit^(f)(2)	$	2.00	$	12.01		$	1.68	$	10.09		19	%
Adjusted EBITDA Margin^(a)		47			%		49			%

(1) 1Q25 excludes $0.04/Mcfe ($0.24/Boe) and 1Q24 excludes $0.05/Mcfe ($0.36/Boe) of other revenues generated by Next LVL Energy.
(2) 1Q25 excludes $0.03/Mcfe ($0.22/Boe) and 1Q24 excludes $0.07/Mcfe ($0.39/Boe) of expenses attributable to Next LVL Energy.
Values may not sum due to rounding.

Opportunistic Layering of Additional Hedges at Premium Contract Prices

Diversified has strategically taken advantage of the recent strength of the natural gas price curve to add to the Company’s 2026-2029 hedge portfolio and layering additional NYMEX volumes at an average floor price of ~$3.68/MMBtu, which is reflected in the financial derivatives positions as of April 30, 2025.

Environmental Update

Asset Retirement Progress and Next LVL Energy Update

Next LvL Energy partnered with the State of West Virginia regulatory agencies to implement advanced testing protocols and improved technology to help modernize and upgrade well retirement procedures. Through the combined efforts of real-world situation testing and oversight, the State of West Virginia has enacted new asset retirement regulations, with the resulting framework achieving an environmentally sound, safe, and cost-effective methodology.

Through the end of the first quarter, the Company has retired a combined 76 wells consisting of operated assets, state well retirements, and contracted retirement activity for third-party operators. Diversified is well-positioned to meet or exceed its retirement goal of 200 wells per year, with 57 operated wells retired as of March 31, 2025. The Company continues to drive stakeholder value via the realization of contractual partnerships to retire assets that eliminate orphaned or abandoned wells in our region and provide revenue to offset the cash costs associated with the retirement of Diversified’s wells.

Combined Company 2025 Outlook

The Company is reiterating its previously announced Full Year 2025 guidance. Following the recently completed acquisition of Maverick, Diversified expects to realize significant operational synergies associated with a larger, consolidated position in Oklahoma and the ability to improve the overall cost structure of the Maverick assets while continuing to prioritize returns and Free Cash Flow generation.

The following outlook incorporates a nine-month contribution from the recently acquired Maverick assets.

	2025 Guidance
Total Production (Mmcfe/d)	1,050 to 1,100
% Liquids	~25%
% Natural Gas	~75%
Total Capital Expenditures (millions)	$165 to $185
Adj. EBITDA⁽¹⁾(millions)	$825 to $875
Adj. Free Cash Flow⁽¹⁾(millions)	~$420
Leverage Target	2.0x to 2.5x
Combined Company Synergies (millions)	>$50

(1) Includes the value of anticipated cash proceeds for 2025 land sales.

Conference Call Details

The Company will host a conference call today, Monday, May 12, 2025, at 1:00 PM GMT (8:00 AM EDT) to discuss the 1Q25 Trading Statement and will make an audio replay of the event available shortly thereafter.

Footnotes:

(a)	Includes the total value of dividends paid and declared, and share repurchases (including Employee Benefit Trust) year-to-date, through May 12, 2025.
(b)	Exit rate includes full month of March 2025 production from Maverick.
(c)	Adjusted EBITDA represents earnings before interest, taxes, depletion, and amortization, and includes adjustments for items that are not comparable period-over-period; Adjusted EBITDA Margin represents Adjusted EBITDA as a percent of Total Revenue, Inclusive of Settled Hedges; For purposes of comparability, Adjusted EBITDA Margin excludes Other Revenue of $3 million in 1Q25 and $3 million in 1Q24, and Lease Operating Expense of $3 million in 1Q25 and $4 million in 1Q24 associated with Diversified’s wholly owned plugging subsidiary, Next LVL Energy; For more information, please refer to the Non-IFRS reconciliations as set out below.
(d)	Free Cash Flow represents net cash provided by operating activities less expenditures on natural gas and oil properties and equipment and cash paid for interest; For more information, please refer to the Non-IFRS reconciliations as set out below.
(e)	Includes the impact of derivatives settled in cash; For purposes of comparability, excludes certain amounts related to Diversified’s wholly owned plugging subsidiary, Next LVL Energy.
(f)	Adjusted Operating Cost represent total lease operating costs plus recurring administrative costs. Total lease operating costs include base lease operating expense, owned gathering and compression (midstream) expense, third-party gathering and transportation expense, and production taxes. Recurring administrative expenses (Adjusted G&A) is a Non-IFRS financial measure defined as total administrative expenses excluding non-recurring acquisition & integration costs and non-cash equity compensation; For purposes of comparability, excludes certain amounts related to Diversified’s wholly owned plugging subsidiary, Next LVL Energy.
(g)	As used herein, employees, administrative costs and professional services represent total administrative expenses excluding cost associated with acquisitions, other adjusting costs and non-cash expenses. We use employees, administrative costs and professional services because this measure excludes items that affect the comparability of results or that are not indicative of trends in the ongoing business.

For Company-specific items, refer also to the Glossary of Terms and/or Alternative Performance Measures found in the Company’s Annual Report and Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2024 filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission and available on the Company’s website.

For further information, please contact:

Diversified Energy Company PLC	+1 973 856 2757
Doug Kris	dkris@dgoc.com
Senior Vice President, Investor Relations & Corporate Communications	www.div.energy

FTI Consulting	dec@fticonsulting.com
U.S. & UK Financial Public Relations

About Diversified Energy Company PLC

Diversified is a leading publicly traded energy company focused on natural gas and liquids production, transport, marketing, and well retirement. Through our unique differentiated strategy, we acquire existing, long-life assets and invest in them to improve environmental and operational performance until retiring those assets in a safe and environmentally secure manner. Recognized by ratings agencies and organizations for our sustainability leadership, this solutions-oriented, stewardship approach makes Diversified the Right Company at the Right Time to responsibly produce energy, deliver reliable free cash flow, and generate shareholder value.

Forward-Looking Statements

This announcement contains forward-looking statements (within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995) concerning the financial condition, results of operations, business and outlook of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries (the “Group”). All statements other than statements of historical fact are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements, which contain the words “anticipate”, “believe”, “intend”, “estimate”, “expect”, “may”, “will”, “seek”, “continue”, “aim”, “target”, “projected”, “plan”, “goal”, “achieve”, “guidance” and words of similar meaning, reflect the Company’s beliefs and expectations and are based on numerous assumptions regarding the Company’s present and future business strategies and the environment the Company and the Group will operate in and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially. No representation is made that any of these statements or forecasts will come to pass or that any forecast results will be achieved. Forward-looking statements involve inherent known and unknown risks, uncertainties and contingencies because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that may or may not occur in the future and may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company or the Group to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. Many of these risks and uncertainties relate to factors that are beyond the Company’s or the Group’s ability to control or estimate precisely, such as future market conditions, currency fluctuations, the behavior of other market participants, the actions of regulators and other factors such as the Company’s or the Group’s ability to continue to obtain financing to meet its liquidity needs, the Company’s ability to successfully integrate acquisitions, including the acquired Maverick assets, changes in the political, social and regulatory framework, including inflation and changes resulting from actual or anticipated tariffs and trade policies, in which the Company or the Group operate or in economic or technological trends or conditions. The list above is not exhaustive and there are other factors that may cause the Company’s or the Group’s actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements contained in this announcement, Including the risk factors described in the “Risk Factors” section in the Company’s Annual Report and Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.

Forward-looking statements speak only as of their date and neither the Company nor the Group nor any of its respective directors, officers, employees, agents, affiliates or advisers expressly disclaim any obligation to supplement, amend, update or revise any of the forward-looking statements made herein, except where it would be required to do so under applicable law. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the events described in the forward-looking statements in this announcement, may not occur. As a result, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Past performance of the Company cannot be relied on as a guide to future performance. No statement in this announcement is intended as a profit forecast or a profit estimate and no statement in this announcement should be interpreted to mean that the financial performance of the Company for the current or future financial years would necessarily match or exceed the historical published for the Company.

Use of Non-IFRS Measures

Certain key operating metrics that are not defined under IFRS (alternative performance measures) are included in this announcement. These non-IFRS measures are used by us to monitor the underlying business performance of the Company from period to period and to facilitate comparison with our peers. Since not all companies calculate these or other non-IFRS metrics in the same way, the manner in which we have chosen to calculate the non-IFRS metrics presented herein may not be compatible with similarly defined terms used by other companies. The non-IFRS metrics should not be considered in isolation of, or viewed as substitutes for, the financial information prepared in accordance with IFRS. Certain of the key operating metrics are based on information derived from our regularly maintained records and accounting and operating systems.

Adjusted EBITDA

As used herein, EBITDA represents earnings before interest, taxes, depletion, depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA includes adjusting for items that are not comparable period-over-period, namely, finance costs, accretion of asset retirement obligation, other (income) expense, loss on joint and working interest owners receivable, gain on bargain purchases, (gain) loss on fair value adjustments of unsettled financial instruments, (gain) loss on natural gas and oil property and equipment, costs associated with acquisitions, other adjusting costs, loss on early retirement of debt, non-cash equity compensation, (gain) loss on foreign currency hedge, net (gain) loss on interest rate swaps and items of a similar nature.

Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for operating profit or loss, net income or loss, or cash flows provided by operating, investing, and financing activities. However, we believe such a measure is useful to an investor in evaluating our financial performance because it (1) is widely used by investors in the natural gas and oil industry as an indicator of underlying business performance; (2) helps investors to more meaningfully evaluate and compare the results of our operations from period to period by removing the often-volatile revenue impact of changes in the fair value of derivative instruments prior to settlement; (3) is used in the calculation of a key metric in one of the financial covenants under our revolving credit facility; and (4) is used by us as a performance measure in determining executive compensation. When evaluating this measure, we believe investors also commonly find it useful to evaluate this metric as a percentage of our total revenue, inclusive of settled hedges, producing what we refer to as our adjusted EBITDA margin.

The following table presents a reconciliation of the IFRS Financial measure of Net Income (Loss) to Adjusted EBITDA for each of the periods listed:

	Three Months Ended
Amounts in 000’s	March 31, 2025			March 31, 2024			December 31, 2024
Net income (loss)	$	(337,391	)	$	(15,145	)	$	(102,033	)
Finance costs		42,820			27,416			37,453
Accretion of asset retirement obligation		10,353			7,183			8,323
Other (income) expense		(644	)		(5	)		(295	)
Income tax (benefit) expense		66,790			5,633			(125,052	)
Depreciation, depletion and amortisation		70,807			57,015			73,960
(Gain) loss on fair value adjustments of unsettled financial instruments		235,070			13,552			202,124
(Gain) loss on natural gas and oil property and equipment⁽¹⁾		236			4			14,330
(Gain) loss on sale of equity interest		—			—			7,375
Unrealized (gain) loss on investment		—			—			6,446
Costs associated with acquisitions		2,885			1,519			4,532
Other adjusting costs⁽²⁾		5,963			3,693			7,644
Loss on early retirement of debt		39,485			—			2,469
Non-cash equity compensation		1,825			1,268			2,258
(Gain) loss on interest rate swap		(35	)		(50	)		(41	)
Total Adjustments	$	475,555		$	117,228		$	241,526
Adjusted EBITDA^(c)	$	138,164		$	102,083		$	139,493
TTM Adjusted EBITDA	$	508,390		$	497,510		$	472,309
Pro Forma TTM Adjusted EBITDA⁽³⁾	$	952,216		$	497,510		$	548,570

(1) Excludes $2 million, $2 million and $8 million in cash proceeds received for leasehold sales during the three months ended March 31, 2025, March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2024, respectively.
(2) Other adjusting costs for the three months ended December 31, 2024 were primarily associated with legal fees for certain litigation.
(3) Pro forma TTM adjusted EBITDA includes adjustments for respective periods to pro forma results for the full twelve-month impact of intra-period acquisitions (March 31, 2025: Oaktree, Crescent Pass, East Texas II, Summit and Maverick; December 31, 2024: Oaktree, Crescent Pass Energy and East Texas II).

Net Debt and Net Debt-to-Adjusted EBITDA

As used herein, net debt represents total debt as recognized on the balance sheet less cash and restricted cash. Total debt includes our borrowings under our revolving credit facility and our borrowings under or issuances of, as applicable, our subsidiaries’ securitization facilities, excluding original issuance discounts and deferred finance costs. We believe net debt is a useful indicator of our leverage and capital structure.

As used herein, net debt-to-adjusted EBITDA, or “leverage” or “leverage ratio,” is measured as net debt divided by adjusted trailing twelve-month EBITDA. We believe that this metric is a key measure of our financial liquidity and flexibility and is used in the calculation of a key metric in one of the financial covenants under our revolving credit facility.

The following table presents a reconciliation of the IFRS Financial measure of Total Non-Current Borrowings to the Non-IFRS measure of Net Debt and a calculation of Net Debt-to-Adjusted EBITDA and Net Debt-to-Pro Forma Adjusted EBITDA for each of the periods listed:

	As of
Amounts in 000’s	March 31, 2025			March 31, 2024			December 31, 2024
Total non-current borrowings, net	$	2,544,937		$	1,066,643		$	1,483,779
Current portion of long-term debt		156,253			184,463			209,463
LESS: Cash		(32,641	)		(3,456	)		(5,990	)
LESS: Restricted cash		(106,011	)		(32,828	)		(46,269	)
Net Debt	$	2,562,538		$	1,214,822		$	1,640,983
Pro forma TTM adjusted EBITDA⁽¹⁾	$	952,216		$	497,510		$	548,570
Net debt-to-pro forma TTM adjusted EBITDA	2.7x			2.4x			3.0x

(1) Pro forma TTM adjusted EBITDA includes adjustments for respective periods to pro forma results for the full twelve-month impact of intra-period acquisitions (March 31, 2025: Oaktree, Crescent Pass, East Texas II, Summit and Maverick; December 31, 2024: Oaktree, Crescent Pass Energy and East Texas II).

Free Cash Flow

As used herein, free cash flow represents net cash provided by operating activities less expenditures on natural gas and oil properties and equipment and cash paid for interest. We believe that free cash flow is a useful indicator of our ability to generate cash that is available for activities other than capital expenditures. The Directors believe that free cash flow provides investors with an important perspective on the cash available to service debt obligations, make strategic acquisitions and investments, and pay dividends.

The following table presents a reconciliation of the IFRS Financial measure of Net Cash from Operating Activities to the Non-IFRS measure of Free Cash Flow for each of the periods listed:

Amounts in 000’s Except per share amounts	Three Months Ended			Three Months Ended			Twelve Months Ended
Amounts in 000’s Except per share amounts	March 31, 2025			March 31, 2024			March 31, 2025
Net cash provided by operating activities	$	131,539		$	106,258		$	370,944
LESS: Expenditures on natural gas and oil properties and equipment		(28,031	)		(9,293	)		(70,838	)
LESS: Cash paid for interest		(41,574	)		(23,759	)		(140,956	)
Free Cash Flow^(d)	$	61,934		$	73,206		$	159,150

Total Revenue, Inclusive of Settled Hedges and Adjusted EBITDA Margin

As used herein, total revenue, inclusive of settled hedges, includes the impact of derivatives settled in cash. We believe that total revenue, inclusive of settled hedges, is a useful measure because it enables investors to discern our realized revenue after adjusting for the settlement of derivative contracts.

The following table presents a reconciliation of the IFRS Financial measure of Total Revenue to the Non-IFRS measure of Total Revenue, Inclusive of Settled Hedges and a calculation of Adjusted EBITDA Margin for each of the periods listed:

Amounts in 000’s	Three Months Ended		Three Months Ended		Year Ended
Amounts in 000’s	March 31, 2025		March 31, 2024		December 31, 2024
Total revenue	346,903		193,624		794,841
Net gain (loss) on commodity derivative instruments⁽¹⁾	(52,271	)	22,066		151,289
Total revenue, inclusive of settled hedges^(c)	294,632		215,690		946,130
Adjusted EBITDA^(c)	138,164		102,083		472,309
Adjusted EBITDA Margin^(c)	47	%	47	%	50	%
Adjusted EBITDA Margin, exclusive of Next LVL Energy⁽²⁾	47	%	49	%	51	%

(1) Net gain (loss) on commodity derivative settlements represents cash (paid) or received on commodity derivative contracts. This excludes settlements on foreign currency and interest rate derivatives as well as the gain (loss) on fair value adjustments for unsettled financial instruments for each of the periods presented.
(2) For purposes of comparability, Adjusted EBITDA Margin excludes Other Revenue of $3 million in 1Q25 and $3 million in 1Q24, and Lease Operating Expense of $3 million in 1Q25 and $4 million in 1Q24 associated with Diversified’s wholly owned plugging subsidiary, Next LVL Energy.

The MIL Network –

May 12, 2025

MIL-OSI Australia: King to serve as Federal Resources Minister and Minister for Northern Australia

Source: Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority

I am honoured to be reappointed Federal Minister for Resources and Minister for Northern Australia as part of a re-elected Albanese Labor Government.

I am looking forward to implementing the Government’s election policies and to delivering for the people of Australia.

Strengthening our resources industry is a key priority of this Government as a part of its Future Made in Australia agenda.

The implementation of the Future Gas Strategy and the Critical Minerals Strategy is vital for the nation’s productivity agenda.

The development of our critical minerals and rare earths sector is central to Australia’s national economic, trade and security interests.

The creation of a Critical Minerals Strategic Reserve, combined with Production Tax Credits and the expansion of the Critical Minerals Facility will support Australia’s economy and boost our resilience in a time of global uncertainty.

A strong north means a strong Australia, and the Albanese Labor Government is working to make Northern Australia even stronger.

The Government’s plan for Northern Australia through work such as its continued support for the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility will create jobs, build infrastructure and support communities.

I look forward to working with Special Envoy Luke Gosling to ensure the north grows and prospers.

I am thrilled to be given the opportunity to work with Senator Anthony Chisholm as Assistant Minister for Resources and Senator Nita Green as Assistant Minister for Northern Australia.

Our resources industry is the engine room of the economy, but it is also increasingly important for our sovereignty and our national security.

Critical minerals and rare earths are essential for our defence industry and will be needed by our security partners, particularly as part of AUKUS.

The Albanese Labor Government will work to ensure that all Australians benefit from the resources that are essential to our national interest.

MIL OSI News –

May 12, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: BPMSoft and GUU agreed on the development of IT education

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

The company “BPMSoft” (part of the IT holding LANSOFT), the developer of the domestic low-code platform BPMSoft, and the State University of Management (SUM) signed an agreement on cooperation in the field of IT education.

The partnership is aimed at developing competencies in the field of process management among students of the Institute of Industrial Management. Joint work will be carried out within the framework of the discipline “Fundamentals of Process Management” of the Department of Theory and Organization of Management, as well as in the implementation of student projects under the auspices of the project office of the State University of Management. In the future, it is planned to deepen cooperation – this is about including the courses “Business Process Engineering” and “Business Process Modeling” in the educational tracks for senior students.

The university’s lecturers have already begun to master the functionality of the BPMSoft platform. The training is conducted according to a program developed specifically for academic partners.

Yulia Golyakina, head of the BPMSoft Education initiative: “Today’s students are tomorrow’s architects of the digital economy. We want them to enter the market with relevant knowledge and the ability to apply modern tools in real projects. Cooperation with the State University of Management is an important step in the formation of strong practice-oriented IT education in the country.”

Dmitry Bryukhanov, Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs at the State University of Management: “We see great potential in integrating modern platforms into the educational process. Working with BPMSoft will allow students not only to study the theory of process management, but also to apply it in practice – in the language of business, technology and project work.”

The partnership with the State University of Management became part of a large-scale academic initiative called “BPMSoft Education”. Over the past year and a half, more than two dozen leading universities in the country have joined the project. Its goal is to train a new wave of IT specialists with practical skills in working with domestic digital solutions that are in demand in public administration and business.

About GUU

The State University of Management is the first educational institution that has been specializing in management education in the USSR and Russia for over 100 years. More than 12 thousand students study at the SUM in 16 bachelor’s degree programs, 13 master’s degree programs, including economics, management, business informatics, state and municipal management, transport process technology, personnel management, statistics and others, as well as postgraduate students in 14 scientific specialties. The SUM implements a unique project-based education program, starting from the 1st year and focused on practical classes throughout the year. Every year, about 4 thousand specialists and business managers undergo retraining and improve their qualifications at the SUM.

Over the years of its existence, the university has trained about 200 thousand highly qualified managers for various sectors of the economy. Among the graduates of the State University of Management are members of the Government of the Russian Federation, deputy ministers, governors, mayors of cities, heads of municipal structures and businesses.

About BPMSoft

“BPMSoft” (part of the IT holding LANSOFT) is the developer of its own low-code platform BPMSoft for automation and management of business processes in a single digital environment. BPMSoft contains tools for flexible configuration and customization, ready-made business applications for managing CRM, SRM, HRM, ITSM, connectors and extensions for effective adaptation to any IT infrastructure. The BPMSoft partner network includes 100 companies engaged in the implementation of the platform and the development of their own products based on it. BPMSoft’s clients include 500 major customers: banks and insurance, fuel and energy complex and industry, retail and FMCG, IT and development, and others.

BPMSoft is included in the register of Russian software (registry entry No. 17372), belongs to the field of artificial intelligence, has FSTEC certification for 4 UD, and is also included in the list of 520 IT solutions that can be used at critical information infrastructure facilities from January 1, 2025, in accordance with Decree of the President of the Russian Federation No. 166 dated March 30, 2022.

About LANSOFT

IT holding LANSOFT unites leading platform solutions in the corporate software segment into a single product portfolio: TURBO, LDM, BPMSoft, Goodt. The products complement each other and cover key business needs: from budgeting, enterprise management, working with clients and suppliers to talent management and creating advanced analytical reports. All solutions of the brand are included in the register of Russian software.

LANSOFT has an extensive network of over 170 authorized partners for sales and implementation of products. The LANSOFT team consists of over 1,400 employees.

Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 12.05.2025

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.

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 12, 2025
India to present case against Pakistan at IMF over bailout review

Source: Government of India (4)

India is set to present its case before the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Friday, urging a review of financial aid extended to Pakistan.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that India’s position would be officially conveyed during a board meeting of the IMF in Washington. “I’m sure our Executive Director will put forward India’s position,” Misri told reporters at a media briefing on Thursday.

Misri did not mince words in his criticism of Pakistan’s use of IMF funds, suggesting that the aid indirectly enables Islamabad to support military intelligence operations and terrorist groups, including Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).

He noted that Pakistan has historically failed to fulfil the conditions attached to IMF assistance. “Many of the 24 IMF bailout packages given to Pakistan never reached a successful conclusion,” Misri said, adding that “the case about Pakistan should be self-evident to those who generously open their pockets.”

India’s renewed call for a review of Pakistan’s IMF funding comes days after its military launched “Operation Sindoor,” targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). The operation was carried out in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 civilians.

(With IANS inputs)

May 12, 2025

Category: Economy

PM remarks at Immigration White Paper press conference: 12 May 2025

Updates to this page

Nationals re-elect leader David Littleproud

What are fillers made of?

The risk to kidneys

Who should avoid lip fillers?

More in Housing

Source: Predator Free 2050

Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand