NewzIntel.com

Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI: AXIS Completes Previously Announced Transaction With Enstar

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PEMBROKE, Bermuda, April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AXIS Capital Holdings Limited (“AXIS Capital” or “AXIS” or the “Company”) (NYSE: AXS) and Enstar Group Limited (“Enstar”) (Nasdaq: ESGR) announced today that they have completed a loss portfolio transfer (“LPT”) transaction, covering reinsurance segment reserves predominantly attributable to casualty portfolios related to 2021 and prior underwriting years.

    The LPT reinsurance agreement covers reinsurance segment reserves totalling $3.1 billion at September 30, 2024, and is structured as a 75% ground-up quota share, with AXIS retroceding $2.3 billion of reinsurance segment reserves to Enstar.

    The LPT reinsurance agreement was provided by Enstar’s wholly owned subsidiary, Cavello Bay Reinsurance Limited, which has S&P and AM Best ‘A’ financial strength ratings.

    Completion of the transaction followed receipt of regulatory approvals and satisfaction of various other closing conditions.

    About AXIS Capital
    AXIS Capital, through its operating subsidiaries, is a global specialty underwriter and provider of insurance and reinsurance solutions. The Company has shareholders’ equity of $6.1 billion at September 30, 2024, and locations in Bermuda, the United States, Europe, Singapore, and Canada. Its operating subsidiaries have been assigned a financial strength rating of “A+” (“Strong”) by Standard & Poor’s and “A” (“Excellent”) by A.M. Best. For more information about AXIS Capital, visit our website at www.axiscapital.com.

    About Enstar

    Enstar is a NASDAQ-listed global insurance group that offers innovative capital release solutions through its network of group companies in Bermuda, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Lichtenstein and Belgium. A market leader in completing legacy acquisitions, Enstar has acquired more than 120 companies and portfolios since its formation in 2001. For further information about Enstar, see www.enstargroup.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: ARKO to Report First Quarter 2025 Financial Results on May 8, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RICHMOND, Va., April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ARKO Corp. (Nasdaq: ARKO) (the “Company”), a Fortune 500 company and one of the largest convenience store operators in the United States, today announced that the Company will host a conference call on Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time to discuss its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    ARKO Corp.’s management team will host the conference call, followed by a question-and-answer period. The Company will provide its financial results in a press release prior to the call.

    Date: Thursday, May 8, 2025
    Time: 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time
    Toll-free dial-in number: (888) 396-8049
    International dial-in number: (416) 764-8646
    Webcast: ARKO’s Q1 2025 Earnings Call

    A telephonic replay will be available approximately three hours after the call concludes through Saturday, June 7, 2025.

    Toll-free replay number: (877) 660-6853
    International replay number: (201) 612-7415
    Replay ID: 13752796

    A link to the live webcast and replay will also be available at https://www.arkocorp.com/news-events/ir-calendar. We encourage all participants to register at least 15 minutes prior to the 5:00 p.m. ET start time. If you have any difficulty registering or connecting with the conference call, please contact Elevate IR at (720) 330-2829.

    About ARKO Corp.

    ARKO Corp. (Nasdaq: ARKO) is a Fortune 500 company that owns 100% of GPM Investments, LLC and is one of the largest operators of convenience stores and wholesalers of fuel in the United States. Based in Richmond, VA, our highly recognizable Family of Community Brands offers delicious, prepared foods, beer, snacks, candy, hot and cold beverages, and multiple popular quick serve restaurant brands. We operate in four reportable segments: retail, which includes convenience stores selling merchandise and fuel products to retail customers; wholesale, which supplies fuel to independent dealers and consignment agents; fleet fueling, which includes the operation of proprietary and third-party cardlock locations and issuance of proprietary fuel cards that provide customers access to a nationwide network of fueling sites; and GPM Petroleum, which sells and supplies fuel to our retail and wholesale sites and charges a fixed fee, primarily to our fleet fueling sites. To learn more about GPM stores, visit: www.gpminvestments.com. To learn more about ARKO, visit: www.arkocorp.com.

    Company Contact
    Jordan Mann
    ARKO Corp.
    investors@gpminvestments.com

    Investor Contact
    Sean Mansouri, CFA
    Elevate IR
    (720) 330-2829
    ARKO@elevate-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Impact of the first Omnibus package on the European Green Deal – E-000720/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    On 26 February 2025, the Commission adopted Omnibus proposals to simplify the regulatory framework and boost competitiveness[1].

    Those proposals cover sustainability reporting, sustainability due diligence, the taxonomy, the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)[2], and the Invest EU programme[3]. The Commission remains deeply committed to building a greener and fairer society and economy.

    The proposed measures aim to ensure that the transition to a decarbonised economy is achieved in the simplest, most cost-effective and least burdensome way for EU businesses.

    This package will reduce complexity of EU requirements for all businesses, focus the regulatory framework on the largest companies which are likely to have a bigger impact on the climate and the environment, while still enabling companies to access sustainable finance for their clean transition.

    The proposed measures exempt companies up to 1 000 employees from mandatory sustainability reporting and protects them from excessive sustainability information requests that they receive from larger companies or from financial institutions (trickle-down effect).

    As regards the CBAM, the proposal introduces a de minimis exemption for goods below a threshold of 50 tonnes. This measure affects importers who import small quantities of CBAM goods, representing very small quantities of embedded emissions entering the EU from third countries.

    At least 99% of emissions will remain in the CBAM scope, while around 90% of the importers, mostly small and medium-sized enterprises will be exempted.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/publications/omnibus-i_en and https://commission.europa.eu/publications/omnibus-ii_en
    • [2] Regulation (EU) 2023/956 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 10 May 2023 establishing a carbon border adjustment mechanism, OJ L 130, 16.5.2023, p. 52.
    • [3] https://investeu.europa.eu/investeu-programme_en
    Last updated: 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Foot-and-mouth disease – urgent action to protect the Italian livestock industry – E-001501/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001501/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Paolo Inselvini (ECR), Carlo Fidanza (ECR), Francesco Ventola (ECR), Nicola Procaccini (ECR), Sergio Berlato (ECR)

    The spread of foot-and-mouth disease in Slovakia and Hungary, with some cases even being reported on the border with Austria, constitutes a real risk for Italy. Although the disease is not dangerous to humans, it is highly contagious among farm animals and can cause serious economic damage.

    In 2024, Italy imported tens of thousands of live animals from countries now affected by the outbreaks. With the arrival of Easter, which is a key period for sheep and goat imports, there is a heightened risk of the virus spreading.

    Given the alarm among farmers, and bearing in mind their legitimate concerns, can the Commission answer the following questions:

    • 1.What preventive measures will it take, in this and other similar cases, to limit the spread of these diseases and the ensuing economic damage?
    • 2.Is it envisaging a tightening-up of border controls and a review of the European rules on animal biosafety and traceability in the light of the increasing frequency of these health emergencies?
    • 3.Has financial support been envisaged for livestock farms which suffer direct or indirect damage linked with the spread of the virus?

    Submitted: 11.4.2025

    Last updated: 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – MEPs push for a more ambitious European defence industry programme

    Source: European Parliament

    On Thursday, MEPs backed a draft law designed to strengthen Europe’s defence industry, ramp up defence product manufacturing and provide more support for Ukraine.

    The Committees on Industry, Research and Energy and Security and Defence have adopted their position on the proposed creation of a European defence industry programme (EDIP). More specifically, MEPs backed measures to boost the European defence technological and industrial base (EDTIB), to strengthen EU defence and further integrate the EU defence industry. These measures include a significant increase in member states’ financial contributions to the EDIP, more aggregation of orders for the development of defence products, and enhanced use of joint procurement.

    MEPs want the new programme to focus on improving the supply of weapons, ammunition and other crisis-relevant products, boosting manufacturing capacities or ensuring their ramp-up, reducing lead times for production and delivery, and increasing stockpiling.

    Other principles agreed by MEPs to strengthen Europe’s defence capacity include the following:

    • Introducing a “buy European” principle by which the EDIP should only fund products where the cost of components originating in the EU or associated countries represents at least the 70% of the estimated end product value.
    • To be eligible for funds, European defence projects of common interest should involve at least six member states, or at least four that are facing high exposure to the risk of conventional military threats; MEPs want also Ukraine to participate.
    • A European ‘military sales mechanism’ would work as a centralised catalogue of defence products and services to bolster EU-wide demand.
    • A new, voluntary, Structure for European Armament Programme would scale up member states’ cooperation throughout the defence equipment lifecycle.
    • An EU security of supply regime should gradually guarantee continuous access to essential defence products to tackle future supply crises; the regime would be managed by a Defence Industrial Readiness Board.


    Military support for Ukraine

    As part of the new EDIP regulation, MEPs also backed a Ukraine Support Instrument (USI) to ensure the Ukrainian defence industry’s modernisation and integration within the EDTIB. This EU funding would scale up direct investment in Ukraine’s defence industry, facilitate partnerships between EU and Ukrainian defence actors and increase EU procurement of defence capacities produced in Ukraine, including for Ukraine itself.

    Quotes

    “Our position on the EDIP sends a strong message to the Council to finalise its own position in order to start interinstitutional negotiations. The European Parliament will insist on establishing a strong regulation that will incentivise EU member states to boost joint procurement in order to build common European defence capabilities – stronger, strategic, efficient and united,” said Marie‑Agnes Strack-Zimmermann (Renew Europe, Germany), Chair of the Committee on Security and Defence.

    “Today, Parliament has come together with an unprecedented sense of urgency and purpose. In record time, we’ve forged a broad and determined majority in support of strengthening Europe’s defence industrial base – because this is no longer just an option, it’s a strategic imperative. Europe stands at a historic crossroads. Faced with Russia’s threats, we must act with unity, ambition and resolve. Investing together, developing critical military capabilities jointly, and aligning our spending efforts at EU level is the only way forward. It’s time to end our dependence on external actors. A sovereign Europe is a stronger and safer Europe, and this vote on the EDIP is a clear step in that direction”, said Raphaël Glucksmann (S&D, France), co-rapporteur from the Committee on Security and Defence.

    “The adoption of the EDIP report by a large majority today marks a major step for the security of the European continent and the strengthening of our defence industry. With this vote, the European Parliament is setting the bar high for the EU to enhance the sovereignty and resilience of our countries, build an effective governance framework, and design an ambitious and realistic financing solution. Our committees’ work in accelerated procedure means Parliament is ready to tackle the upcoming trilogue stage as soon as the Council has determined its position. This outcome, both in substance and pace, seemed impossible to achieve just a few weeks ago; with this important step, we have shown that our institution is rising to the challenge on this crucial issue for the future of Europe”, said François-Xavier Bellamy (EPP, France), co-rapporteur from the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy.

    Next steps

    The report was adopted by 70 votes to 46 with 8 abstentions. MEPs also decided to open negotiations with the Council to finalise the law, with 90 votes in favour, 20 against and with 5 abstentions. Parliament as a whole will be notified of this decision during the May plenary session.

    Background

    The European Commission put forward a proposal for a European defence industry programme (EDIP) regulation on 5 March 2024. The EDIP – with a proposed budget of €1.5 billion – seeks to achieve defence industrial readiness by bridging the gap between short-term emergency measures, such as the Act in Support of Ammunition Production (ASAP) and the European Defence Industry Reinforcement through Common Procurement Act (EDIRPA), that have been implemented since 2023 and will end in 2025, and a more structural, long-term approach.

    The EDTIB comprises a number of large multinational companies, mid-caps and over 2,000 small and medium-sized enterprises, with an estimated combined annual turnover of €70 billion.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Statement by President von der Leyen with UK Prime Minister Starmer

    Source: EuroStat – European Statistics

    European Commission Statement London, 24 Apr 2025 Thank you very much, Keir. It is good to meet a friend again and to be here with you We are friends, and we are Europeans, we are very like-minded.

    The President of the European Commission and the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom met today and agreed to strengthen the relationship between the United Kingdom and the European Union.

    They agreed on the shared challenges facing the European Union and the United Kingdom including the altered strategic context for the wider continent notably resulting from Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine. They reiterated their unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty.

    The leaders agreed the UK and European Union would also continue to work closely to address wider global challenges including economic headwinds, geopolitical competition, irregular migration, climate change and energy prices, which pose fundamental challenges to the shared values of the United Kingdom and the European Union and provide the strategic driver for stronger cooperation.

    The leaders reflected on the events in the Middle East overnight and condemned the egregious attack by Iran on Israel. They recognised Israel’s right to self-defence in the face of this unacceptable aggression. De-escalation by all parties in the region was of the upmost importance. They reiterated the need to coordinate the diplomatic response to the situation in the Middle East and called on all sides to show restraint and end the bloodshed. An immediate ceasefire in Lebanon and Gaza was required to create the space to allow for political solutions, the leaders underlined.

    They agreed on the importance of the unique relationship between the European Union and the United Kingdom in addressing such challenges and resolved, in line with our shared values, to strengthen ambitiously their structured strategic cooperation.

    They reaffirmed that the Withdrawal Agreement, including the Windsor Framework, and the Trade and Cooperation Agreement underpin relations between them and underlined their mutual commitment to the full and faithful implementation of those agreements. They reaffirmed their mutual commitment to uphold international law and to the European Convention on Human Rights. They agreed a stable, positive and forward-looking relationship was in their mutual interests and provided the basis for long term cooperation.

    They agreed to take forward this agenda of strengthened cooperation at pace over the coming months, starting with defining together the areas in which strengthened cooperation would be mutually beneficial, such as the economy, energy, security and resilience, in full respect of their internal procedures and institutional prerogatives. They agreed to meet again this autumn.

    They agreed on the importance of holding regular EU-UK Summits at leader-level to oversee the development of the relationship. They agreed that a first Summit should take place ideally in early 2025.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: UK general insurance industry to reach $149 billion by 2029, forecasts GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    The UK general insurance industry is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.0% from GBP92.9 billion ($119.7 billion) in 2025 to GBP113.0 billion ($149.2 billion) in 2029, in terms of direct written premiums (DWP), according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    As per GlobalData’s UK General Insurance Report, the general insurance industry in the UK is expected to grow by 5.8% in 2025, driven by the increasing home insurance cost, the rising natural catastrophic events, the government push for greener vehicles, and rising demand for commercial motor insurance.

    Swarup Kumar Sahoo, Senior Insurance Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The UK general insurance industry is navigating change, driven by evolving consumer behaviors, climate challenges, regulatory changes, competition, and price sensitivity. Overall, the sector anticipates steady growth but must adapt to emerging risks and consumer demands.”

    Motor insurance is the leading line of business in the UK general insurance industry, estimated to account for a 28.0% share of the DWP in 2025. It is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.4% during 2025-29. Factors such as recovery of the economy, increased personal injury discount (Ogden) rates, and expansion of commercial fleets will contribute to the growth of motor insurance.

    With an increase in commercial activity, government incentives for electric vehicles (EVs), and a push to transition to zero-emission vehicles by 2035, the fleet operators in the UK are increasingly adopting electric vans. This, along with an increase in new car registrations, which grew by 2.6% in 2024, will support the growth of motor insurance in 2025. Fleet sales accounted for 59.6% of the new vehicle registrations in 2024, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

    Sahoo adds: “The increase in Ogden rate from -0.25% to 0.5% starting January 11, 2025, will lower motor insurance claims costs and is expected to increase insurers’ profitability. The motor insurance premiums, which registered an average increase of 40% during 2022 and 2023, will not witness such a steep increase further and will give some relief to the policyholders.”

    Property insurance is estimated to account for a 25.7% share of DWP in 2025. It is expected to grow by 5.8% in 2025, driven by rising frequency of extreme weather events, including storms and flooding, rising building costs, rising opportunity for contents and renters insurance, and increasing consumer demand for comprehensive coverage.

    Sahoo continues: “The increasing frequency of extreme weather events poses challenges, leading insurers to raise premiums and reassess coverage options in high-risk areas. Collaborative investments in flood adaptation infrastructure are essential to mitigate these risks and expand coverage options for vulnerable communities. The integration of smart home technologies is also transforming the landscape, enabling homeowners to detect issues early, which can reduce claims.”

    Liability insurance is estimated to account for a 15.1% share of DWP in 2025. It is expected to grow by 5.1% in 2025, driven by growing awareness of cyber threats, as businesses seek to protect themselves against increasing cyberattacks. Additionally, the fatal injury of workers, expected to grow by 3% in 2025, as reported in the Health and Safety Executive’s annual statistics, along with the increased Ogden rate, will support the growth of employers’ liability insurance. The evolving needs of consumers and businesses in a rapidly changing environment will continue to support the liability insurance to grow at a CAGR of 7.4% during 2025-29.

    Personal Accident and Health (PA&H), Marine, Aviation, and Transit (MAT), and Financial Lines insurance products are estimated to account for the remaining 31.2% share of the general insurance DWP in 2025.

    Swarup concludes: “The outlook for the UK general insurance market remains positive, with growth driven by regulatory change and evolving consumer needs. Insurers must remain agile and innovative to navigate the challenges posed by climate change and economic pressure. However, the increased Ogden rate is a welcome development for general insurers.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Saudi Arabia: Families fear imminent execution of loved ones amid surge in drug-related executions

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Dozens of men on death row in Saudi Arabia for drug -related crimes are terrified for their lives amid a dramatic surge in executions for drug offences in the country over recent months, Amnesty International said today, based on information from family members of detainees on death row.

    Between January and April 2025, the Saudi Arabian authorities executed at least 88 people including 52 for drug-related crimes. This is a dramatic increase from 2024, which saw record executions, and when a total of 46 people were executed during the same period, none of them for drug-related crimes. Just this week, in one day on 22 April, the Saudi Press Agency announced the execution of three people, two Saudi nationals for “promoting hashish” and one Pakistani national for “trafficking heroin”. 

    “Despite Saudi Arabia’s repeated claims that it is limiting its use of the death penalty for crimes not mandated under sharia, the alarming surge in executions for drug-related offences exposes the stark reality: Saudi Arabia is blatantly disregarding international law and standards, which restrict the use of the death penalty to only ‘the most serious crimes’ involving intentional killing,” said Kristine Beckerle, Deputy Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa at Amnesty International.

    “Saudi Arabia’s authorities must immediately stop this execution spree, establish an official moratorium on all executions, and move towards abolishing the death penalty for all crimes.”

    Saudi Arabia is blatantly disregarding international law and standards, which restrict the use of the death penalty to only ‘the most serious crimes’ involving intentional killing

    Kristine Beckerle, MENA Deputy Regional Director

    Pending these changes, Saudi Arabia must urgently revise its laws to eliminate provisions that allow for the death penalty to be imposed and ensure that any penal code adopted abolishes the death penalty, including for crimes that do not meet the threshold of ‘most serious crimes’ under international standards, such as drug-related offences, and ensuring that all individuals have access to fair trials and adequate legal representation.

    While Saudi authorities do not publish or share figures of individuals on death row, arrests for drug-related offences are routinely reported in state-aligned media, indicating that a large number of people are in detention and on death row for such offences.

    In November 2024, prison authorities in Tabuk transferred 35 Egyptian nationals convicted of drug-related offences to a single ward, a move widely feared to signal their impending executions. Since November 2024, at least 10 foreign nationals and two Saudi nationals have been executed for drug-related offences in the same prison, raising fears of the imminent executions of the remaining men.

    In addition, as of March 2025, at least 44 Somali nationals, all men, are on death row in Najran Prison, southwestern Saudi Arabia, for drug-related crimes, according to the Somali Consulate in Saudi Arabia. On 16 February 2025, the Saudi Ministry of Interior announced an execution in Najran of Mohamed Nur Hussein, a Somali national, for “smuggling hashish”, also raising fears for the fate of dozens of others on death row.

    One Egyptian man on death row told his family in April: “A few days ago, a Sudanese man was taken in the middle of the night, as we were sleeping.”

    Another deeply distressed family member told Amnesty International: “There is no time left to save them, time is running out.”

    Following a pause, between 20 February to 6 April, a few weeks before and during Ramadan, executions resumed with alarming speed in April and have included a startling surge in drug-related executions of foreign nationals. Between 6 and 24 April 2025, Saudi Arabia executed 22 individuals, more than one per day on average. Of these, 17 were foreign nationals from eight Arab, sub-Saharan African and Asian, including South Asian, countries, all convicted of drug-related crimes. Three Saudi nationals were also executed for drug-related offences, while three other Saudi nationals were put to death for murder and terrorism-related charges.

    Grossly unfair trials

    Amnesty International has documented a pattern of serious fair trial violations preceding executions, including of foreign nationals in Saudi Arabia.

    At least five Egyptian men currently held on death row were unable to afford legal representation due to financial constraints and were not provided with a court-appointed lawyer during investigation nor trial.

    In another case, also of an Egyptian national currently on death row, the individual had a court-appointed lawyer, but the lawyer failed to share crucial case information during the trial to support his defence.

    Several of the Egyptian nationals currently at risk of execution told their families and their judge that they were tortured during their interrogations to extract “confessions”. None of these torture complaints were investigated, according to court documents reviewed by Amnesty International and the torture-tainted “confessions” used as evidence against them.

    Issam Shazly, an Egyptian national convicted and sentenced to death under Article 37 of the Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances Control Law in 2022, had no legal representation during his arrest and investigation. His family told Amnesty International that the court later appointed a legal representative to support his defence, but the lawyer was uncooperative and failed to inform them about crucial details including the possibility of clemency, the deadline to appeal or when to expect the Supreme Court ruling.

    “We knew absolutely nothing because it’s a foreign country and we don’t know its laws. We expected the lawyer to inform us,” they said.

    A Saudi court convicted Rami al-Najjar in 2019 of bringing controlled drugs into Saudi Arabia to sell and eight grams of hashish for personal consumption, according to court documents analyzed by Amnesty International. He did not receive the support of an appointed lawyer. He told Amnesty International that during his appeal session, the judge said that he could not argue against his conviction “because you don’t have a lawyer.” He submitted an appeal himself to the Supreme Judicial Council but received no response. Rami’s family were finally able to appoint a lawyer in early 2025, but they said that, as of March 2025, the lawyer had not taken any action because he was waiting for updates in the case. They said: “I don’t understand what updates other than Rami’s imminent execution there need to be for the lawyer to re-open the case”.

    Mohamed Ahmed Saad and Omar Ahmad Ibrahim were arrested in May 2017 and accused of trafficking the synthetic drug Captagon. They weredetained incommunicado for a year and a half after arrest. They have been on death row for almost eight years. Both men were denied access to legal representation and, according to court documents, “confessed” to the charge after being subjected to severe beatings. On October 9, 2019, the Court of Appeal upheld their death sentence.

    Background

    Saudi Arabia has consistently been one of the world’s countries with the highest number of recorded executions. In 2024, authorities announced the execution of 122 people for drug-related crimes, a significant proportion of the total 345 executions known to have been carried out that year. This sharp rise occurred after a nearly three-year hiatus in such executions, following a moratorium announced by the Saudi Human Rights Commission in January 2021. Last year, Saudi Arabia was one of four countries known to have carried out executions for drug-related offences.

    Amnesty International opposes the death penalty in all cases without exception, regardless of the nature or circumstances of the crime; guilt, innocence or characteristics of the individual; or the method used by the state to carry out the execution.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Physician spending trends in Canada: Why increased costs may not mean more primary care services

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Ruolz Ariste, Adjunct Professor, Industrial Relations, Université du Québec en Outaouais, and Adjunct Professor, School of Public Policy and Administration, Carleton University

    In 2023, Canada ranked last in access to primary health care among 10 high-income countries.
     (Shutterstock)

    Access to physician services remains a challenge in Canada, particularly in primary care. Though this reality has been often eclipsed by the tariffs issue during the 2025 federal election, it continues to be a fundamental concern for Canadians.

    In 2023, Canada ranked last in access to primary health care among 10 high-income countries. Yet, Canada ranked among the highest for health spending as a percentage of GDP, significantly outranked only by the United States.

    Moreover, public spending on physicians has systematically risen during the first quarter of this century. The two most common proposals to improve this access are: increasing the number of physicians and/or the payment per service to physicians.

    As a health economist researcher, my focus is on health workforce planning and efficiency. Given limited resources and budget constraints, what is the best way for policymakers to improve access to heath care: Paying our physicians more, or increasing their numbers?

    Minding physician spending

    Total spending on physicians increased to $47.5 billion in 2023, from $13.2 billion in 2000, growing an average of 5.7 per cent per year (known as the average annual growth rate (AAGR)). This includes physicians on fee-for-service (FFS) plan — those who bill for each individual service or procedure they provide to a patient — and non-FFS plan, such as salary or capitation (payment per each enrolled patient) in which physicians don’t have to bill for each individual service or procedure to get paid.

    The key policy question is whether this additional spending was used to buy more services (medical consultations, visits and procedures). It is important to understand if Canada paid more for the same number of medical services or if Canadians are getting more bang for their buck.

    Using an accounting approach, this increase in spending can be broken down into increase in number of services, and increase in unit cost of service.
    In the 2022-23 fiscal year, physicians provided a total of 359.1 million services versus 263.8 million in 2000 (assuming that physicians on non-FFS plans have similar productivity to those on FFS plans). This translates to an average growth rate of 1.4 per cent per year.

    Meanwhile, cost per service increased to $90.42 in 2023 compared to $36.66 in 2000 — an average increase of four per cent per year. This suggests that most of the increase in spending (70 per cent) was used to cover increasing costs per service.

    It should be noted that average annual growth in unit cost represents sector-specific inflation. As such, it includes two components: general inflation and a “health premium” defined as inflation above and beyond general inflation. Considering that general inflation for the period (as measured by the CPI-all items) was on average 2.2 per cent per year, growth in inflation-adjusted unit cost for physicians was 1.8 per cent per year. That would be the “health premium” for physicians.

    Still, some of the increase in spending was used to buy more services throughout this period. How could the access issue be explained? That’s where one needs to factor in population growth and aging: two demographic factors responsible for increases in number of services.

    During this period spanning over two decades, Canada’s population grew at 1.1 per cent per year; this results in a mere 0.3 per cent growth in number of services per person per year (9.16 in 2023 from 8.65 in 2000).

    Because aging impact is estimated to be at least 0.8 per cent annually, factoring it in a full demographic adjustment would result in a decline of 0.5 per cent in number of services per capita over this period; which would explain a poorer access to medical services in Canada.

    Does the number of doctors affect the equation?

    We consistently learn that the number of physicians has been increasing. In fact, there were 82,184 physicians providing clinical services in 2023 as opposed to 49,281 in 2000, which represents average growth of 2.2 per cent per year.

    However, possibly due to shifts in the demographic composition of the workforce and better work-life balance, each of these physicians provides fewer services. For example, the number of services per physician per year in 2023 was 4,370 compared to 5,353 in 2000, a decline of 0.9 per cent per year.

    Other sources have reported that trends in weekly worked hours of Canadian physicians has declined from about 53 hours before 2000 to 46 hours in recent years.

    Why access seems more challenging for primary care services

    Family physicians are the gatekeepers and first point of contact of the Canadian health-care system. Over the 2000-2023 period, their numbers have increased less than specialists (AAGR of 2.1 per cent and 2.4 per cent respectively). In other words, while in 2000, slightly more than half of physicians were family physicians, in 2023 the situation reversed, and slightly more than half of physicians were specialists.

    Nurse practitioners emerged in the primary care setting in the last decade. This workforce grew from 3,768 in 2014 to 8,302 in 2023, increasing by an average of 9.2 per cent per year. Still, they are not enough to fully make up for the deficit.

    An important consideration is that family physicians tend to benefit less from medical technological improvement than specialists. A few specific specialties, for example ophthalmology, profit the most from the huge productivity gains in the medical field. They could work fewer hours and still increase the number of services they provide and their income, which family physicians can do to a lesser extent.

    In fact, for physicians who received at least $100,000 in fee-for-service payments per year, average gross FFS payments per ophthalmologist have grown almost three times more than that for a family physician between 2013 and 2023.

    Implications for decision makers

    Simply throwing more money into the system will not be enough to address the primary care access issue. It is important to ensure this additional money will buy mostly additional services, contrary to what we have shown in the past.

    On the supply side, projections for the number of required physicians will need to account for the reduced number of hours worked. That means that more family physicians are needed just to provide the same number of services, let alone increase it.

    On the demand side, the aging population translates into more services used per capita, but also increased severity of cases. The medical workforce itself is also aging, impacting both the supply and the demand sides. Policymakers need to work with institutions involved in physicians planning and training such as the Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada, the Medical Council of Canada to ramp up training of family physicians. Extending training and scope of practice of nurse practitioners would also help.

    Finally, the family physician category could be made more attractive by offering a more balanced payment scheme between family physicians and specialists.

    Ruolz Ariste 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. Physician spending trends in Canada: Why increased costs may not mean more primary care services – https://theconversation.com/physician-spending-trends-in-canada-why-increased-costs-may-not-mean-more-primary-care-services-253675

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Competitiveness of the European coking industry – E-000264/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Commission recognises that the energy-intensive sectors are the backbone of the European manufacturing system but also particularly vulnerable in this phase of the clean energy transition. The Clean Industrial Deal (CID)[1] proposes actions to safeguard the competitiveness of energy-intensive industries from high energy cost and unfair global competition. Additionally, the CID foresees actions to accelerate decarbonisation through measures aimed at the clean-tech sector. To address overcapacities being redirected to the EU market, the Commission will intensify international and multilateral cooperation. The Commission has also presented a tailor-made action plan[2] for the steel and metals sectors, which account for 95% of coking coal used in the EU.

    2. Concerning imports from third countries, the Commission aims to ensure a fair playing field in line with its international trade commitments and, if sufficient evidence for such practices is submitted, could utilise its trade defence instruments, such as anti-dumping or safeguard measures.

    3. The Commission equally promotes sustainable development (e.g. adherence to international labour and environmental standards) in international trade, based on commitments set out in multilateral and bilateral agreements, including the rules contained in the ‘Trade and Sustainable Development’ and ‘Energy and Raw Materials’ chapters of the free-trade agreements concluded and under negotiation by the EU. The EU will continue engaging to promote internationally agreed sustainability standards.

    • [1] COM(2025) 85 final.
    • [2] https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/publications/european-steel-and-metals-action-plan_en
    Last updated: 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Inquiry into the Chinese Government’s role in financing and running DeepSeek, and in applying censorship – E-000394/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission monitors developments related to potential distortions in the Single Market to ensure its integrity, protect investors, and maintain a level playing field for all businesses.

    Regarding China, the Commission is indeed concerned about broad ranging distortions in the economy as documented in the Commission Staff Working Document of 10 April 2024[1].

    The Digital Services Act[2] (DSA) protects freedom of expression and information, regulating intermediary service providers in the EU. DeepSeek models are subject to ideological censorship and is therefore in conflict with EU’s principles.

    Large Language Models (LLMs) would not by themselves constitute a separate service regulated under the DSA, but intermediary services using LLMs like DeepSeek may be regulated by the DSA, depending on their features.

    The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act[3] covers general-purpose AI (GPAI) models, such as DeepSeek, which must provide technical documentation, with further obligations for GPAI with systemic risk. GPAI models released prior to 2 August 2025 shall comply by 2 August 2027. The Commission will continue to take a vigilant and proactive approach to address any arising issues.

    The AI Continent Action Plan addresses supply and demand aspects to position the EU as a leader of AI development and take-up, which is critical to ensure EU competitiveness.

    This will leverage full deployment of AI Factories, which bring together AI-optimised supercomputers, data, and human talent. It will establish the AI Gigafactories to harness vast computational power to develop and deploy the next generation of AI models.

    The announced European AI Research Council will further support AI research, building on more than EUR 1 billion annual investment under Horizon Europe.

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/transparency/documents-register/detail?ref=SWD(2024)91&lang=en
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2022/2065/oj/eng
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1689/oj/eng

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Revitalising Spanish industry – E-000246/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP)[1] is a Commission initiative to boost investment in manufacturing of critical technologies, digital and deep-tech innovation, clean and resource-efficient technologies, and biotechnologies. Spain can amend its Cohesion Policy funding towards these priorities under the STEP Regulation. Furthermore, Spain is currently setting up a Member State compartment under InvestEU[2] using their Recovery and Resilience Facility[3] funds and the national budget to mobilise additional private and public investments in Spain under the sustainable infrastructure, research, innovation and digitisation and the small and medium-sized enterprises policy windows.

    2. The Net-Zero Industry Act[4] and the Critical Raw Materials Act[5] strengthen the EU’s manufacturing capacity for net-zero technologies while ensuring access to critical raw materials. The Commission has engaged with Spain to ensure their early implementation.

    The new Competitiveness Compass[6] places competitiveness as a core principle for EU action. The Commission’s Clean Industrial Deal is a key deliverable in this regard[7]. The Commission counts on Spain to contribute to the simplification effort. The Commission will also present a Quality Jobs Roadmap to improve working conditions and labour market participation.

    3. The Commission considers it important for Spain to design and implement a national exploration programme[8] to improve critical raw material potential. The Commission has published the first list of strategic projects on 25 March 2025[9]. Five of them are located in Spain and one concerns lithium. To support these projects, including early-stage exploration, Spain could develop financing instruments such as a national critical raw materials fund.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2024/795 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 29 February 2024 establishing the Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/795/oj/eng
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=LEGISSUM:4516649
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:02021R0241-20240301
    • [4] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=OJ:L_202401735
    • [5] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:02024R1252-20240503
    • [6] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:52025DC0030
    • [7] COM(2025) 85 final.
    • [8] Art. 19 2024/1252 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1252/oj/eng
    • [9] Strategic projects under the Critical Raw Materials Act https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/sectors/raw-materials/areas-specific-interest/critical-raw-materials/strategic-projects-under-crma_en
    Last updated: 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Protecting EU consumers against the backdrop of FWU Life Insurance Lux S.A.’s liquidation – E-000794/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Effective supervision is essential for protecting EU consumers and fostering trust in the single market.

    Under the Solvency II Directive[1], the authority of the Member State where an insurer has established its head office has primary responsibility for its supervision and the competence to take necessary measures if its financial condition is not sufficiently sound.

    The Insurance Recovery and Resolution Directive (IRRD)[2] and the Solvency II Amending Directive[3] reinforce the regulatory framework, aiming to better protect policyholders and enhance coordination among national authorities.

    The IRRD introduces harmonised recovery and resolution measures to protect policyholders, beneficiaries and claimants, and ensure effective crisis management[4].

    It also mandates the Commission to issue by January 2027 a report on the potential for minimum common standards for Insurance Guarantee Schemes and, if appropriate, a legislative proposal.

    The Solvency II review introduces stronger cooperation and wider information exchange between the home and host Member State supervisors in case of significant cross-border activities[5]. It also enhances the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority’s powers to intervene in complex cross-border cases[6].

    Effective and harmonised supervision is also a key objective of the Savings and Investments Union[7]. In this context, the Commission calls on the European Supervisory Authorities and National Competent Authorities to make full use of existing supervisory convergence tools.

    Furthermore, it announced its intention to propose measures to strengthen these tools and enhance their effectiveness[8], thereby supporting greater consistency in supervisory practices across the EU.

    • [1] Directive 2009/138/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 November 2009 on the taking-up and pursuit of the business of Insurance and Reinsurance, OJ L 335, 17.12.2009, p. 1-155.
    • [2] Directive (EU) 2025/1 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 November 2024 establishing a framework for the recovery and resolution of insurance and reinsurance undertakings and amending Directives 2002/47/EC, 2004/25/EC, 2007/36/EC, 2014/59/EU and (EU) 2017/1132 and Regulations (EU) No 1094/2010, (EU) No 648/2012, (EU) No 806/2014 and (EU) 2017/1129, OJ L, 2025/1, 8.1.2025.
    • [3] Directive (EU) 2025/2 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 November 2024 amending Directive 2009/138/EC as regards proportionality, quality of supervision, reporting, long-term guarantee measures, macro-prudential tools, sustainability risks and group and cross-border supervision, and amending Directives 2002/87/EC and 2013/34/EU, OJ L, 2025/2, 8.1.2025.
    • [4] In particular, it equips national supervisory authorities and national resolution authority with harmonised mandates and tools to intervene when insurers face financial distress.
    • [5] In particular, the home supervisory authority must promptly inform the host authority if it detects deteriorating financial conditions in an insurance undertaking under its jurisdiction. Under certain conditions, the host authority may also request a joint on-site inspection with the home authority and, if the latter accepts the request, EIOPA is invited to participate. See new Articles 152aa, 152ab, 152b of the Solvency II Directive.
    • [6] Including by means of binding mediation and, under specific conditions, the disclosure of the names of concerned undertakings
    • [7] https://finance.ec.europa.eu/publications/commission-unveils-savings-and-investments-union-strategy-enhance-financial-opportunities-eu_en
    • [8] The proposal is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2025.
    Last updated: 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – EU competences in forest matters – E-000936/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU has a variety of competences shared with Member States that have an impact on forest protection and forestry, including climate, environment, energy and agriculture, which the Union has exercised respecting the principle of subsidiarity[1].

    The EU has exercised these competences through the adoption of legislation using the appropriate legal basis. As forests are natural resources and an integral part of the environment, the Habitats[2] and Wild Birds Directive[3], the Land Use, Land Use Change, and Forestry (LULUCF) Regulation[4], the Deforestation Regulation[5], the Nature Restoration Law[6], the Carbon Removal Certification Framework[7] are based on Article 192(1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), and so is the proposal for a regulation on a Forest Monitoring Framework[8], currently in the co-decision procedure.

    The Renewable Energy Directive[9] has multiple legal bases under TFEU (Article 114 — internal market, Article 192(1) — environment and Article 194(2) — energy), while the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development[10] is based on Articles 42 and 43(2).

    EU action on climate, biodiversity and circular economy as well as their benefits inherently relate to natural ecosystems, including forests.

    The mentioned Commission proposal for a Forest Monitoring Framework aims at having accurate, timely and comparable data on forests across the EU, in view of increasing pressures and stressors, and their cross-border impacts.

    • [1] Court of Justice of the European Union judgment of 25 February 1999 in Joined Cases C-164/97 and C-165/97, EU:C:1999:99.
    • [2] Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora, OJ L 206, 22.7.1992, p. 7-50.
    • [3] Directive 2009/147/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 November 2009 on the conservation of wild birds, OJ L 20, 26.1.2010, p. 7-25.
    • [4] Regulation (EU) 2018/841 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 2018 on the inclusion of greenhouse gas emissions and removals from land use, land use change and forestry in the 2030 climate and energy framework and amending Regulation (EU) No 525/2013 and Decision No 529/2013/EU, OJ L 156, 19.6.2018, p. 1-25.
    • [5] Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 31 May 2023 on the making available on the Union market and the export from the Union of certain commodities and products associated with deforestation and forest degradation and repealing Regulation (EU) No 995/2010, OJ L 150, 9.6.2023, p. 206-247.
    • [6] Regulation (EU) 2024/1991 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 June 2024 on nature restoration and amending Regulation (EU) 2022/869, OJ L, 2024/1991, 29.7.2024.
    • [7] Regulation (EU) 2024/3012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 November 2024 establishing a Union certification framework for permanent carbon removals, carbon farming and carbon storage in products, OJ L, 2024/3012, 6.12.2024.
    • [8] https://environment.ec.europa.eu/publications/proposal-regulation-forest-monitoring-framework_en
    • [9] Directive (EU) 2018/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources, as amended, OJ L 328, 21.12.2018, p. 82-209.
    • [10] https://commission.europa.eu/funding-tenders/find-funding/eu-funding-programmes/european-agricultural-fund-rural-development-eafrd_en

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Members of an International Money Laundering Organization Charged with Laundering Millions of Dollars in Drug Proceeds

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WASHINGTON – A federal grand jury in Florence, South Carolina returned an indictment on Tuesday, April 22, charging Nasir Ullah, 28, and Naim Ullah, 32, both of Sumter, South Carolina, and Puquan Huang, 49, of Buford, Georgia, with conspiring to launder millions of dollars of proceeds derived from drug trafficking.

    “As alleged in the indictment, the defendants laundered tens of millions of dollars in drug proceeds from the United States through China and the Middle East, enabling a continuous flow of fentanyl and other dangerous drugs into our country from Mexico,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Dismantling transnational criminal organizations and Chinese Money Laundering Organizations that support them is a critical priority for the Department. Alongside DEA and our local law enforcement partners, we will continue to prosecute the financial networks that fuel illegal drug trade and profit from the sale of deadly substances.”

    “We are committed to dismantling criminal organizations that seek to profit through the distribution of dangerous drugs like cocaine and fentanyl across South Carolina and beyond,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Brook B. Andrews for the District of South Carolina. “This $30 million money laundering operation, which has international ties, was conducted in multiple communities in our state. We will continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to trace these illicit funds, disrupt these networks, and hold those involved accountable for the harm they present.”

    “Cases like this exemplify the value of partnerships,” said Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division. “The volume of dangerous drugs, including deadly fentanyl, impacts our communities beyond comprehension. This investigation and subsequent arrests demonstrate DEA’s commitment to protecting our community by destroying these drug trafficking and money laundering organizations.”

    According to court documents, unsealed today, Ullah, Ullah, and Huang allegedly worked for a money laundering organization that laundered at least $30 million in proceeds related to the distribution of illegal drugs, including cocaine and fentanyl, which were unlawfully imported into the United States, typically through Mexico. Ullah, Ullah, Huang, and their co-conspirators allegedly traveled throughout the United States to collect drug proceeds. They communicated with co-conspirators in China to arrange for the laundering of these proceeds through transactions designed to conceal the illegal source of the proceeds, including disguising the source of the drug proceeds by moving money through the shipment of electronic goods to China and the Middle East.

    Ullah, Ullah, and Huang are charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering. If convicted, they each face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.

    The DEA’s Charleston, South Carolina Resident Office is investigating the case, with assistance from the DEA’s Special Operations Division, Bilateral Investigations Unit; DEA’s Office of Special Intelligence, Document and Media Exploitation Unit; DEA’s offices in Columbia, South Carolina and Atlanta, Georgia; the FBI’s offices in Charleston and Columbia, South Carolina; the U.S. Air Force, Office of Special Investigations; the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division; the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office; the South Carolina Highway Patrol; the Fort Mill Police Department; the York County Sheriff’s Office; the North Charleston Police Department; the Mount Pleasant Police Department; and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department.

    Trial Attorneys Mary K. Daly and Jasmin Salehi Fashami of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Everett E. McMillian for the District of South Carolina are prosecuting the case.

    The Third and Fifth Judicial Circuit Solicitor’s Offices of South Carolina provided assistance in this case.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Former ILVA plant and JTF financing – E-000927/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    According to available information, the EUR 400 million in question are distinct from the so-called bridge loan and are part of the EUR 1.1 billion seized from the former owners of ILVA to remedy the environmental impact of the plant.

    In Decision (EU) 2018/1498[1], the Commission concluded that the latter amount[2] was not state aid[3]. The destination of these funds was not an element retained by the Commission in its assessment (as non-aid) and, therefore, without prejudice to the application of Italian law, a change in such destination does not constitute a breach of the decision.

    A new permit in line with the Industrial Emissions Directive (IED)[4] is due to be issued to the Acciaierie d’Italia plant by June 2025. The Commission receives updates on the progress made to bring the plant into compliance with the IED and is in contact with the Italian authorities to address the issues raised in the infringement procedure[5].

    The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF)[6] can only support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) or investments related to the production, processing, transport, distribution, storage, or combustion of fossil fuels, with some exceptions[7]. Regulation (EU) 2021/1056[8] excludes support to those activities under the Just Transition Fund (JTF)[9].

    Further exceptions for the support of such investments are introduced in the proposal for a regulation amending Regulation (EU) 2021/1058 and (EU) 2021/1056[10].

    In addition, while support to enterprises others than SMEs is allowed by Regulation (EU) 2021/1056, it is not under the Italian JTF National Programme[11].

    Thus, investments involving large enterprises and related to blue hydrogen cannot be financed under the above-mentioned programmes, unless exceptions apply.

    • [1] Commission Decision (EU) 2018/1498 of 21 December 2017 on the state aid and the measures SA.38613 (2016/C) (ex 2015/NN) implemented by Italy for Ilva SpA in Amministrazione Straordinaria (notified under document C(2017) 8391), OJ L 253, 9.10.2018, p. 45-75.
    • [2] ‘Measure 1: the transfer of the assets seized during criminal proceedings against Ilva’s previous owners’.
    • [3] Section 2.2.1, Section 5.2.1 and Article 1(a) of Decision (EU) 2018/1498.
    • [4] Directive (EU) 2024/1785 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 April 2024 amending Directive 2010/75/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council on industrial emissions (integrated pollution prevention and control) and Council Directive 1999/31/EC on the landfill of waste, OJ L, 2024/1785, 15.7.2024.
    • [5]  INFR(2013)2177: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_13_866
    • [6] Regulation (EU) 2021/1058 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 June 2021 on the European Regional Development Fund and on the Cohesion Fund, OJ L 231, 30.6.2021.
    • [7] Article 7(1)(h) of Regulation (EU) 2021/1058.
    • [8] Regulation (EU) 2021/1056 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 June 2021 establishing the Just Transition Fund, OJ L 231, 30.6.2021.
    • [9] Article 9(d) of Regulation (EU) 2021/1056.
    • [10] Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) 2021/1058 and (EU) 2021/1056 as regards specific measures to address strategic challenges in the context of the mid-term review .
    • [11] https://www.jtf.gov.it/the-program/

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Ongoing discrimination in online sales against remote and outermost regions of the EU – E-000630/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Under the Geo-blocking Regulation[1], deciding whether to offer delivery services in specific locations within Member States remains the business choice of the trader.

    Charging higher prices for delivery depending on the area served may also be justified in light of increased costs . However, customers from other Member States are entitled to delivery in areas served by the trader according to its general conditions of access on the same terms as local customers without discrimination.

    The Commission cooperates with national authorities and the Consumer Protection Cooperation Network[2] to enforce the regulation and tackle unjustified geo-blocking.

    The Commission has established, on the basis of Regulation (EU) 2018/644[3] on cross-border parcel delivery services, a public database with information on more than 44 000 domestic and cross border tariffs[4].

    E-commerce providers may thus rely on a diverse and substantial offer to ensure delivery throughout the EU. However, only universal service providers are under the obligation imposed by Directive 97/67/EC[5] to provide affordable, cost-oriented, and non-discriminatory tariffs.

    The Commission has just launched an evaluation of the Geo-blocking Regulation[6] to assess if any further measures are needed to address remaining barriers and strengthen cross-border trade in the EU.

    The Commission remains committed to supporting a stronger integration of the outermost regions in the single market, in line with the 2022 EU Outermost Regions Strategy[7].

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2018/302 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 February 2018 on addressing unjustified geo-blocking and other forms of discrimination based on customers’ nationality, place of residence or place of establishment within the internal market and amending Regulations (EC) No 2006/2004 and (EU) 2017/2394 and Directive 2009/22/EC, OJ L 60I, 2.3.2018, p. 1-15.
    • [2] https://commission.europa.eu/live-work-travel-eu/consumer-rights-and-complaints/enforcement-consumer-protection/consumer-protection-cooperation-network_en
    • [3] Regulation (EU) 2018/644 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 April 2018 on cross-border parcel delivery services, OJ L 112, 2.5.2018, p. 19-28.
    • [4] https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/sectors/postal-services/parcel-delivery-eu/find-best-price-your-eu-parcel-delivery_en
    • [5] Directive 97/67/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 December 1997 on common rules for the development of the internal market of Community postal services and the improvement of quality of service, OJ L 15, 21.1.1998, p. 14-25, amended by Directive 2002/39/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 10 June 2002 amending Directive 97/67/EC with regard to the further opening to competition of Community postal services, OJ L 176, 5.7.2002, p. 21-25, and amended by Directive 2008/6/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 February 2008 amending Directive 97/67/EC with regard to the full accomplishment of the internal market of Community postal services, OJ L 52, 27.2.2008, p. 3-20.
    • [6] See the call for evidence published on the Have Your Say portal: https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/14416-Geo-blocking-Regulation-evaluation_en
    • [7] Communication ‘Putting people first, securing sustainable and inclusive growth, unlocking the potential of the EU’s outermost regions’ (COM/2022/198 final).
    Last updated: 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Syria, Haiti & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (24 April 2025) | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:

    – Syria
    – Briefings Tomorrow
    – Secretary-General
    – Deputy Secretary-General
    – Occupied Palestinian Territory
    – U.N.I.F.I.L.
    – Yemen
    – Democratic Republic of the Congo
    – Haitian Migrants
    – Haiti
    – Ukraine
    – Myanmar
    – Immunization Week
    – International Days

    SYRIA
    Tomorrow at 8 a.m., the new three-starred Syrian flag will be raised, next to the flags of the other 193 Member States and the two permanent observers. If you have any questions about media coverage, please ask the Media Accreditation and Liaison Unit (MALU). They will facilitate that. And just to stay on Syria, Geir Pedersen will be here to brief the Council tomorrow and he will be speaking to you at the stakeout afterwards.

    BRIEFINGS TOMORROW
    Tomorrow at 11:00 a.m., there will be a hybrid press briefing by Ambassador Jürg Lauber, the President of the Human Rights Council.
    And our Noon Briefing guest will be Ulrika Richardson, the Humanitarian Coordinator for Haiti, who also serves as the Deputy Special Representative and Resident Coordinator for Haiti. She will brief us virtually on Haiti.

    SECRETARY-GENERAL
    This evening, the Secretary-General will be traveling this evening to Rome, where on Saturday he will attend the funeral of Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Basilica.
    This afternoon, the Secretary-General will sign the Book of Condolences for the Pope at the Observer Mission of the Holy See.
    On Tuesday, the UN flag will fly at half-mast to honour the passing of the late Pontiff.

    DEPUTY SECRETARY-GENERAL
    Our Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, continues her visit to Washington, D.C., for the World Bank/IMF Annual Spring Meetings.
    This morning, she took part in a Women Lead Breakfast with over 50 female leaders, which was hosted by the World Bank Managing Directors. Amina Mohammed highlighted women’s labour and economic participation as one of the most powerful forces driving inclusive and sustainable development, and she called for women’s leadership to be placed at the centre of decision-making.
    Later, she participated in the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting, where she underscored the importance of advancing reforms to the international financial architecture to make it more inclusive and responsive.
    This afternoon, she will deliver remarks at the 111th meeting of the World Bank/IMF Development Committee and continue her engagements with senior government officials and other key stakeholders. She will be on her way back later today.

    Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=24%20April%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6VIPt0O88YQ

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján: President Trump’s Reckless Economic Agenda Threatens New Mexicans’ Livelihoods

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján
    Prices Are Still Rising for New Mexico Families, Consumer Sentiment at Historic Low  
    Santa Fe, N.M. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) released the following statement after a YouGov/Economist Poll showed that President Trump’s approval rating on the economy has fallen significantly since the beginning of his term:

    “In less than 100 days, President Trump’s reckless economic agenda has New Mexicans on edge and worried about their livelihoods. This President promised lower costs on day one of his presidency, yet we aren’t seeing costs going down for Americans across the country. Instead, we are seeing a reckless trade war, an attack on Americans’ retirement accounts and pocketbooks causing widespread economic uncertainty. President Trump’s chaotic and erratic economic policy decisions have the many worried, and this latest poll shows that the American people have lost confidence in the President’s economic agenda.”
    As President Trump continues his reckless trade war, consumer sentiment fell for the fourth consecutive month in April, plunging 11 percent from March. Consumer sentiment has now lost more than 30 percent since December 2024. At 50.8, U.S. consumer confidence is at its second-lowest level on record going back to 1952.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh hails a decade of Panchayati Raj Reforms under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s leadership on Panchayati Raj Diwas, in Bihar

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh hails a decade of Panchayati Raj Reforms under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s leadership on Panchayati Raj Diwas, in Bihar

    Finance Commission Grants for Gram Panchayats increased sevenfold  in the last 10 years; Panchayat Representatives being trained in Premier Institutions: Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh

    Centre Awards Six Panchayats, Three Institutions; Women Sarpanches of Motipur ( Bihar) , Dawwa S (Maharashtra) & Hatbadra (Odisha) Lead the Spotlight

    Posted On: 24 APR 2025 6:45PM by PIB Delhi

    On the occasion of National Panchayati Raj Day, 24th April 2025, a historic  event was organized at Lohna Uttar Gram Panchayat in Madhubani District of Bihar in the august presence of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. The national commemoration was marked by vibrant participation from elected representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), beneficiaries of several government schemes, and local residents. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, on this occasion launched/ laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects amounting to over Rs.13,480 crores. These initiatives spanned across key sectors including housing, rural development, power, transportation, and connectivity. In his address, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the Government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening grassroots democracy and empowering Panchayats as the driving force behind rural transformation. Addressing from the soil of a Gram Panchayat, Shri Modi underlined the spirit of Gram Swaraj and the role of Panchayats in building a developed and inclusive India.

    Union Minister of Panchayati Raj, Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, in his address highlighted the transformation witnessed by Panchayats across India over the past decade. He emphasized how digital tools such as eGramSwaraj have empowered local self-governments, enhancing efficiency, transparency, and ease of living in rural India. The Union Minister underlined the significant increase in financial devolution to PRIs that is nearly seven times more compared to the 13th Finance Commission in the last ten years.

    “A truly developed India cannot be imagined until its villages and Panchayats are fully developed,” stated Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh. The  event was also graced by Bihar Governor Shri Arif Mohammed Khan, Chief Minister of Bihar Shri Nitish Kumar, and several Union Ministers, public representatives and senior officials, including Shri Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj.

    In his address, Union Minister of Panchayati Raj outlined the transformative progress made under the leadership of the Prime Minister in empowering Panchayati Raj Institutions over the last decade. He highlighted a seven-fold increase in fund devolution to Panchayats, advancements like the e-Gram Swaraj portal for enhanced transparency, weather forecasting at the Panchayat level, and leadership development through training at prestigious institutions like IIMs. The Union Minister emphasized the special focus on strengthening women’s leadership in Panchayats through targeted skill development initiatives. Shri Singh said that Prime Minister’s decision to address the nation from a Gram Panchayat underscores the government’s commitment to grassroots democracy. He called the national celebration at Lohna Uttar a historic moment in India’s journey towards a self-reliant, inclusive, and sustainable rural governance system – a solid foundation for a truly Viksit Bharat.

    A major highlight of the event was the conferring of the Climate Action Special Panchayat Award (CASPA), Atma Nirbhar Panchayat Special Award (ANPSA), and Panchayat Kshamta Nirman Sarvottam Sansthan Puraskar (PKNSSP), recognizing exemplary contributions in Climate Action (CASPA), Self-Reliance (ANPSA), and Capacity Building (PKNSSP). A total of six Gram Panchayats and three institutions from eight States were felicitated. Notably, three award-winning Panchayats – Motipur (Bihar), Dawwa S (Maharashtra), and Hatbadra (Odisha) are headed by women Sarpanches, exemplifying the role of women leadership in driving local development. 

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    Aditi Agrawal

    (Release ID: 2124144) Visitor Counter : 24

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE: Hong Kong/Zhejiang Co-operation Conference Mechanism advances mutual benefits to new levels (with photos/videos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    CE: Hong Kong/Zhejiang Co-operation Conference Mechanism advances mutual benefits to new levels (with photos/videos) 
    In the morning, Mr Lee and the Secretary of the CPC Zhejiang Provincial Committee, Mr Wang Hao, jointly attended the High-Level Meeting cum the First Plenary Session of the Hong Kong/Zhejiang Co-operation Conference, witnessing the establishment of the Hong Kong/Zhejiang Co-operation Conference Mechanism, symbolising a new stage of comprehensive exchanges and co-operation between Hong Kong and Zhejiang. The Executive Deputy Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the CPC Central Committee and the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, Mr Zhou Ji, also attended the meeting.
     
    Officials of the HKSAR Government that attended the meeting included the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki; the Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Mr Erick Tsang Kwok-wai; the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau; the Secretary for Housing, Ms Winnie Ho; the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong; the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Miss Alice Mak; and the Director of the Chief Executive’s Office, Ms Carol Yip.
     
    During the meeting, Mr Wang, Mr Lee, and the Governor of Zhejiang Province, Mr Liu Jie, witnessed the signing of the Hong Kong/Zhejiang Co-operation Conference Mechanism and the Co-operation Memorandum of the High-Level Meeting cum First Plenary Session of the Hong Kong/Zhejiang Co-operation Conference, as well as four co-operation agreements signed by representatives of government departments and institutions of the two places, covering areas of innovation and technology (I&T), housing, economic and trade co-operation, and youth development. Hong Kong and Zhejiang established the new Hong Kong/Zhejiang Co-operation Conference Mechanism and reached consensus on 13 co-operation areas.
     
    Mr Lee noted that the new co-operation conference mechanism symbolises a new stage of comprehensive exchanges and co-operation between Hong Kong and Zhejiang, which is of great significance. He expressed gratitude to Zhejiang Province and the Zhejiang Provincial Government for its importance and support attached to the new co-operation conference mechanism. He said he looks forward to Hong Kong and Zhejiang continuing to work together and deepen co-operation on all fronts for mutual benefits. He added that Hong Kong and Zhejiang will seize national opportunities and leverage their respective strengths to make new and greater contributions to the further reform and opening up of the country, and the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.
     
    Mr Lee said that Hong Kong has long been the largest source of external investment in Zhejiang, as well as a favourable platform for Zhejiang enterprises to expand into overseas markets. Hong Kong will give full play to its role as a “super connector” and “super value-adder” to continue serving Zhejiang in expanding international markets.
     
    Mr Lee then met with the Mayor of the Hangzhou Municipal People’s Government, Mr Yao Gaoyuan, and attended a luncheon hosted by Mr Yao. Mr Lee said that Hangzhou has made rapid achievements in the fields of the digital economy and AI in recent years, while the HKSAR Government is also developing the AI industry proactively and has been implementing a series of measures to support AI development. Mr Lee expressed his confidence in the huge potential for co-operation between Hong Kong and Hangzhou in I&T, adding that under the new co-operation mechanism established between Hong Kong and Zhejiang, exchanges and collaboration between Hong Kong and cities in Zhejiang, including Hangzhou, will be even closer.
     
    In the afternoon, Mr Lee arrived in Ningbo to continue his visit. He first visited a local high-end scientific instrument manufacturing enterprise to learn more about its business development and projects in the manufacturing and research of optical instruments.
     
    Mr Lee then met with entrepreneurs of Ningbo descent. Mr Lee commended Ningbo entrepreneurs for their significant contributions to Hong Kong’s economic and social development over the years, as well as acting as a bridge to promote economic and trade co-operation and cultural exchanges between Hong Kong and Ningbo.
     
    In the evening, Mr Lee met with the Secretary of the CPC Ningbo Municipal Committee, Mr Peng Jiaxue, and attended a dinner hosted by Mr Peng. Mr Lee highlighted that Ningbo is a major city in the Yangtze River Delta region, while Hong Kong, the world’s freest economy and the third-largest international financial centre which possesses the advantages of the “one country, two systems” principle, is proactively developing into an international I&T hub. He said he believes that entrepreneurs in Hong Kong and Ningbo will continue to scale new heights and forge closer ties and co-operation, and that Hong Kong and Ningbo can achieve complementarity to make greater contributions to the country’s high-quality development.
     
    Mr Lee will continue his visit tomorrow (April 25). He will attend the Hong Kong Investment Promotion Conference – Zhejiang (Ningbo) Forum cum Ningbo-Hong Kong Economic Co-operation Forum.
    Issued at HKT 19:30

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: InvestHK, HKETO Singapore and HKTDC jointly hold seminar in India to promote Hong Kong’s business advantages and opportunities (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    InvestHK, HKETO Singapore and HKTDC jointly hold seminar in India to promote Hong Kong’s business advantages and opportunities      
         During the duty visit to Mumbai and Delhi, Mr Ng had fruitful discussions with a number of large family businesses, large enterprises, family offices, business founders and entrepreneurs from across different sectors to explain the unique benefits of the “one country, two systems” framework, conveying the advantages and business and investment opportunities available to them in Hong Kong and the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA).
         
         The Director of Trade and Investment Promotion, World Trade Center Mumbai, Ms Priya Pansare, said, “At World Trade Center Mumbai, we are delighted to explore synergies with InvestHK to foster stronger economic linkages between India and Hong Kong. This collaboration presents a valuable opportunity to bridge markets, promote cross-border investments, and enable businesses from both economies to grow through shared knowledge, innovation, and trade facilitation.”
         
         The seminar cohosted by InvestHK, the HKETO Singapore and the HKTDC in Mumbai yesterday, entitled Gateway to Growth: Exploring Business & Investment Opportunities in and via Hong Kong, brought together local senior executives, entrepreneurs, and partners to discuss the benefits of using Hong Kong as a gateway for expansion into Mainland China and across Asia. It commenced with opening remarks by the Director of the HKETO Singapore, Mr Owin Fung, and the Regional Director of South East Asia and South Asia of the HKTDC, Mr Ronald Ho, followed by a presentation on Hong Kong’s dynamic capital market and the abundant investment opportunities it offers, delivered by Mr Ng.
         
         During his opening speech, Mr Fung emphasised Hong Kong’s benefits to Indian businesses. He said, “As an international financial, trade and shipping centre, Hong Kong has long thrived under the ‘one country, two systems’ principle. This enables Hong Kong to play the pivotal role as a ‘super connector’ and a ‘super value-adder’ to facilitate Indian businesses expanding into the GBA and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations markets.”
         
         During the presentation, Mr Ng underscored Hong Kong’s status as a premier international financial and business hub, spotlighting the city’s vibrant start-up ecosystem, robust capital markets, and free flow of information, talent, and capital. He also highlighted the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme, which offers high-net-worth individuals and their families an attractive pathway to residency in Hong Kong. Mr Ng said, “It has been a genuine privilege to engage with India’s forward-looking business community and showcase the latest developments in Hong Kong. We are keen to support more Indian companies in learning more about Hong Kong’s strategic position, robust capital markets, and diverse talent pool, enabling them to expand across Asia – and ultimately, beyond.”
    Issued at HKT 19:20

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Launches Issuance of Sports Certificates via DigiLocker

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Launches Issuance of Sports Certificates via DigiLocker

    Inaugurates National Centre for Sports Science and Research at IG Stadium

    All sports initiatives undertaken by Modi Government are athlete-centric – Dr. Mandaviya

    NCSSR will serve as a hub for high-level research, education, and innovation aimed at enhancing elite athlete performance: Union Minister

    Posted On: 24 APR 2025 4:44PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya today launched the issuance of sports certificates via DigiLocker at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in New Delhi.

    Prior to the launch, he inaugurated the National Centre for Sports Science and Research (NCSSR) at the same venue.

    Addressing the gathering, Dr. Mandaviya reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to athlete welfare, stating that all sports initiatives undertaken by Modi Government are athlete-centric. Citing examples of the Draft National Sports Governance Bill 2024, Draft National Sports Policy 2024, and the Draft National Code Against Age Fraud in Sports (NCAAFS) 2025, the Minister said these reflect the Government’s resolve to ensure transparency, fairness and good governance in the Indian sports ecosystem.

    He announced that sports certificates issued via DigiLocker will soon be integrated with the National Sports Repository System (NSRS), enabling automatic disbursal of Government cash rewards directly into athletes’ bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), eliminating the need for paper applications.

    “In the past what used to happen is that a sportsperson had to apply for Government cash rewards after winning medals in international competitions. I don’t want that the athletes have to suffer or face any roadblocks in getting their well-deserved reward. So, these initiatives are meant to make it smooth for them. If everyone has watched him/her win a medal internationally why do they need to apply,” Union Minister said.

    Highlighting future plans, Dr. Mandaviya spoke about the comprehensive roadmap being implemented to support India’s bid to host the 2036 Olympics. He also reiterated India’s interest in hosting the Commonwealth Games in 2030.

    Calling on National Sports Federations (NSFs) to prioritize good governance and athlete welfare, Union Minister urged collective efforts from athletes, federations, and the Government to strengthen the sports ecosystem. As a step in this direction, he announced that office space at IG Stadium in Delhi will be made available to interested NSFs.

    Dr. Mandaviya also announced the forthcoming launch of a ‘One Sport–One Corporate’ policy aimed at facilitating federation handholding and attracting financial support for sports development. Additionally, Olympic training centres for high-priority sports disciplines will be developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, he added.

    Speaking on the inauguration of the NCSSR, Dr. Mandaviya said the Centre will serve as a hub for high-level research, education, and innovation aimed at enhancing elite athlete performance. He emphasized that such initiatives will be instrumental in fulfilling India’s long-term sporting vision under Viksit Bharat by 2047.

    “Let us all work together to build a strong sports culture for a new India,” Dr. Mandaviya concluded.

    Praising the initiative by the government, Olympic silver medallist and Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna awardee Mirabai Chanu said: “This is a really good scheme for players. The issuance of sports certificates by DigiLocker will take a lot of stress away from all sportspersons like me. Many times sportspersons have to rush back home for certain documents – for government jobs, visa etc. – as we don’t carry them with us always. I want to thank our Sports Minister on behalf of all players for this initiative.”

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    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2124076) Visitor Counter : 43

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: High-Level Meeting cum First Plenary Session of Hong Kong/Zhejiang Co-operation Conference held in Hangzhou (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, and the Secretary of the CPC Zhejiang Provincial Committee, Mr Wang Hao, leading the delegations of the governments of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and Zhejiang respectively, held the High-Level Meeting cum the First Plenary Session of the Hong Kong/Zhejiang Co-operation Conference (the meeting-cum-plenary) in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, today (April 24). Both sides witnessed the establishment of the Hong Kong/Zhejiang Co-operation Conference Mechanism, symbolising a new stage of all-round exchanges and co-operation between the two places. The Executive Deputy Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, Mr Zhou Ji, also attended the meeting-cum-plenary.

         Officials of the HKSAR Government that attended the meeting-cum-plenary included the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki; the Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Mr Erick Tsang Kwok-wai; the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau; the Secretary for Housing, Ms Winnie Ho; the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong; the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Miss Alice Mak; and the Director of the Chief Executive’s Office, Ms Carol Yip.

         Hong Kong and Zhejiang reached a consensus on the following 13 co-operation areas at the meeting-cum-plenary:

    Joint pursuit of the Belt and Road development and business investment
    ———————————————————————-

         Strengthen co-operation on the Belt and Road Initiative between the two places. Encourage Zhejiang enterprises to actively participate in the Belt and Road Summit held in Hong Kong. Encourage Zhejiang enterprises to actively participate in relevant exchange and interface sessions organised by relevant authorities in Hong Kong.
     
         Promote the co-operation between Hong Kong and Zhejiang in the field of professional services. Support the introduction of Hong Kong management consulting, accounting, design, legal and dispute resolution service agencies.
     
         Continue to actively promote collaboration and exchanges on intellectual property between the two places through publicity initiatives and seminars.
     
    Finance
    ———-

         Support Zhejiang Province in collaborating with the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited and relevant securities institutions to organise and conduct business training to address enterprises’ inquiries regarding listing in Hong Kong.

         Encourage enterprises in Zhejiang Province and financial institutions in Hong Kong to engage in exchanges and co-operation.

    Innovation and technology
    ——————————

         Jointly promote co-operation in technology research and development between Hong Kong and Zhejiang. Support higher education institutions, research institutes and enterprises in Hong Kong and Zhejiang to jointly launch research initiatives to achieve breakthroughs in core technologies in key fields, develop strategic emerging industries, and foster the development of future industries.

         Actively establish a two-way sci-tech financial investment and financing channel, and actively support Zhejiang’s high-tech enterprises in listing and raising funds, issuing local and foreign currency bonds in Hong Kong, etc.

         Encourage and support technology entities in Hong Kong and Zhejiang to take the lead in the establishment of technology co-operation platforms, and set up research and development centres, etc.

    Aviation
    ———-

         Increase the frequency of flights between Hong Kong and the three airports in Hangzhou, Ningbo and Wenzhou in accordance with the market situation.

         Enhance the exchange of advanced airport management experience between airport personnel in Hong Kong and Zhejiang.
     
    Legal and dispute resolution
    ——————————

         Continue to proactively support law firms of the two places to establish partnership associations and set up branches in each other’s places.

         Promote co-operation between the arbitral institutions of the two places in the arbitration of civil and commercial disputes in the areas of international trade, investment, maritime commerce, etc.

         Support and promote the expansion of exchange platforms for legal, arbitration, mediation, and other professional services between the two places.

    Cultural exchange and tourism
    ——————————

         Strengthen cultural and tourism exchanges between the two places.

         Strengthen the exchanges and collaboration between the museums and arts and cultural institutions of Hong Kong and Zhejiang, and jointly organise international exhibitions.

    Education
    ———-

         Promote the development of the Zhejiang-Hong Kong Vocational Education Alliance. Effectively carry out visits to Zhejiang for Mainland study tours of the senior secondary subject of Citizenship and Social Development and Mainland study tours for teachers.

         Facilitate more schools in the two places in forming sister school pairs for conducting exchange activities in diverse forms.

         Encourage higher education institutions in Zhejiang Province to further deepen co-operation with higher education institutions in Hong Kong and carry out various forms of collaborative projects, such as joint scientific research, academic seminars, and teacher-student exchanges.

    Youth development
    ——————–

         Actively explore the introduction of a quality internship programme in Zhejiang under the Thematic Youth Internship Programmes to the Mainland.
     
        Support Hong Kong youths to participate in short-term experiential programmes at innovation and entrepreneurial bases in Zhejiang.
     
         Encourage and support Hong Kong youth entrepreneurial teams funded under the Youth Development Fund of the Government of the HKSAR to expand their businesses to Zhejiang.
     
    Health and Chinese medicine
    ——————————

         Strengthen exchanges and co-operation between the two sides in areas such as clinical talents, primary healthcare and hospital management.

         Support Hong Kong service providers to develop Hong Kong-Zhejiang joint ventures, co-operative medical institutions and wholly owned medical institutions in accordance with the law.

         Expedite academic and talent exchanges in Chinese medicine between the two places, and strengthen co-operation in the area of international standardisation of Chinese medicine.

    Environmental protection
    ——————————

         Promote the implementation of the co-operation agreement signed between the Radiation Monitoring Technical Center of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment and the Hong Kong Observatory. Support technical staff of both sides in conducting regular technical discussions.

         Strengthen technical exchanges and co-operation in the field of carbon monitoring.

         Strengthen exchanges and discussions between Hong Kong and Zhejiang in areas such as environmental protection-related industry and technological innovation.

    Housing
    ———-

         The two parties will engage in collaborative exchanges encompassing innovative housing technologies, intelligent construction, resource conservation, as well as low-carbon and emission-reduction initiatives.

         The two parties will strengthen collaboration in innovative housing technologies, smart estate management, and the development of harmonious communities through reciprocal visits and professional training exchanges.

    Talent and civil service exchange
    ——————————

         Strengthen communication and connections with renowned schools in Hong Kong.
     
         Continue to promote and deepen exchanges between civil servants from both sides, and launch a new round of the exchange programme under the guidance of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee.

    Facilitation measures for Hong Kong people on the Mainland
    ————————————————————

         Fully implement the policies and measures introduced by the relevant Central Government departments to facilitate the development of Hong Kong and Macao residents on the Mainland, and facilitate Hong Kong people studying, working and living in Zhejiang.

         Explore the expansion of the scope of application of the Mainland Travel Permits for Hong Kong and Macao Residents in various government and public services in Zhejiang.

    Co-operation memorandum signing ceremony
    —————————————-

         At the meeting-cum-plenary, the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, and Vice Governor of the Zhejiang Provincial People’s Government Mr Lu Shan, signed the “Hong Kong/Zhejiang Co-operation Conference Mechanism” and the “Co-operation Memorandum of the High-Level Meeting cum First Plenary Session of the Hong Kong/Zhejiang Co-operation Conference”. The documents (Chinese only) are in Annex 1 and Annex 2.

         In addition, four co-operation agreements were signed by government departments and statutory bodies of the two places:

    (i) Memorandum of Understanding on Enhancing Zhejiang/Hong Kong Innovation and Technology Co-operation;
    (ii) Letter of Intent on Strengthening Exchanges and Co-operation in Innovative Housing Technologies, Smart Estate Management and Well-being Community;
    (iii) Memorandum of Understanding on Promoting High-Quality Economic and Trade Co-operation; and
    (iv) Memorandum of Understanding on Jointly Promoting Youth Development Co-operation.

         The co-operation agreements (i), (ii) and (iv) signed by the government departments of the two places (Chinese only) are in Annexes 3 to 5.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Achieves Breakthrough in Gene Therapy for Haemophilia, Dr. Jitendra Singh Reviews BRIC-inStem Trials

    Source: Government of India

    India Achieves Breakthrough in Gene Therapy for Haemophilia, Dr. Jitendra Singh Reviews BRIC-inStem Trials

    “Not Just Science, It’s Nation-Building”: Minister Hails Biotech’s Role in Future Economy

    From Lab to Life: Bengaluru’s BRIC-inStem Leads India’s Bio-Revolution with Gene Therapy, Regenerative Science

    Posted On: 24 APR 2025 4:30PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh inspected the various facilities at BRIC-inStem and reviewed ongoing clinical trials in collaboration with premier medical institutes and hospitals, including the landmark first-in-human gene therapy trial for Haemophilia conducted with CMC Vellore. Calling it a “milestone in India’s scientific journey,” the Minister hailed the institute’s contributions to preventive and regenerative healthcare.

    During his visit, Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored the strategic importance of biotechnology in shaping India’s future economy and public health infrastructure. “This is not just about science—it’s about nation-building,” he said, commending the Department of Biotechnology’s (DBT) recent successes and its emergence from relative obscurity into national relevance.

    India’s biotechnology sector has seen an extraordinary leap, growing 16-fold in the past decade to reach $165.7 billion in 2024, with a vision to touch $300 billion by 2030. The Minister credited this growth to enabling policy reforms, including the recently approved BIO-E3 Policy that aims to boost economy, employment, and environment through biotechnology. “We now have over 10,000 biotech startups compared to just 50 a decade ago,” he pointed out.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh praised the creation of the Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC) that unified 14 autonomous institutions under one umbrella. “BRIC-inStem is at the cutting edge of fundamental and translational science,” he said, highlighting innovations like the germicidal anti-viral mask during the COVID-19 pandemic and the ‘Kisan Kavach’ that protects farmers from neurotoxic pesticides.

     

    A highlight of the visit was BRIC-inStem’s Biosafety Level III laboratory, a key national facility for studying high-risk pathogens under India’s One Health Mission. “The recent pandemic taught us that we must always be prepared. Facilities like this will help us stay a step ahead,” Dr. Jitendra Singh stated.

    The Minister also praised the newly launched Centre for Research Application and Training in Embryology (CReATE), which addresses birth defects and infertility by advancing developmental biology research. “With about 3 to 4 percent of babies born with some form of defect, this centre is vital for improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes,” he said.

    Calling for greater collaboration between scientific and medical institutions, he suggested that BRIC-inStem explore MD-PhD programs, integrate more with clinical research, and enhance visibility through coordinated communication strategies. “What’s being done here should echo across the country—not for publicity, but because the nation needs it,” he said.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh concluded by noting that India’s economy of the future would be bio-driven, with institutions like BRIC-inStem serving as torchbearers of this transformation. “As Mark Twain said, the economy is too serious a subject to be left to economists alone. Biotechnology is not just a science anymore—it is a pillar of our national strategy.”

     

    *****

    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2124073) Visitor Counter : 18

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “TDB-DSTbacks Nature-Powered Innovation: Supports ‘uBreathe Life’ for Indigenous Indoor Air Purification Solution”

    Source: Government of India

    “TDB-DSTbacks Nature-Powered Innovation: Supports ‘uBreathe Life’ for Indigenous Indoor Air Purification Solution”

    “Clean Air, Made in India: TDB-DST Funds Urban Air Labs’ Wall-Mounted Plant-Based Air Purifier to Boost Indoor AQI”

    Posted On: 24 APR 2025 4:13PM by PIB Delhi

    The Technology Development Board (TDB), under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), has taken a significant step toward advancing indigenous clean air technologies by extending financial support to M/s Urban Air Labs Private Limited, Gurugram, for their project titled “Development & Commercialization of a Made in India Efficient Wall-Mounted Air-Purification System for Indoor Premises.” This strategic intervention marks a commitment to improve the Air Quality Index (AQI) indoors through innovative, plant-based purification systems that remove both particulate and gaseous contaminants.

    TDB’s financial assistance to this promising startup underscores its confidence in the project’s potential to deliver sustainable, science-backed air purification solutions. The support aims to promote innovation in climate-responsive technologies while strengthening India’s self-reliance under the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ missions.

    The core technology harnessed in this product blends natural plant-based filtration with advanced engineering. Based on the ‘Urban Munnar Effect’ and a patented innovation called ‘Breathing Roots’, the system enhances the natural air-purifying capacity of leafy indoor plants.

    Air from the room is pulled toward the plant leaves, then directed into the soil-root zone, where the purification process intensifies. The device features a centrifugal fan that creates suction pressure, allowing the purified air—processed through the roots—to be released in 360 degrees across the indoor space.

    Fitted within a specially designed planter box, the ‘uBreathe Life’ system stands out as a compact, aesthetic, and effective wall-mounted solution tailored for homes, offices, hospitals, and other indoor environments. It directly addresses the growing public health concern over poor indoor air quality and represents a game-changing innovation in the field of sustainable air purification.

    Speaking on the occasion, Sh. Rajesh Kumar Pathak, Secretary, TDB, said,
    “TDB’s support to Urban Air Labs reflects our mission to back indigenous solutions that address pressing environmental challenges. The fusion of biotechnology and engineering in this project offers a scalable, sustainable way to enhance indoor air quality, aligned with the nation’s clean technology goals.”

    Commenting on the support, Founders of M/s Urban Air Labs Pvt. Ltd. said,
    “We are grateful to TDB for their belief in our vision. With this support, we aim to make plant-based, natural air purification a norm in Indian households and public spaces. It’s time we bring nature back indoors, powered by science and innovation.”

    ***

    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2124065) Visitor Counter : 34

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Launching the Climate Adaptation and Resilience Plan

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of the New York State Adaptation and Resilience Plan to establish a statewide framework to align ongoing State climate adaptation planning and implementation efforts throughout New York communities. Over the course of the next year, this initiative will equip State and local partners with shared direction and foster collaboration across every region of the State, ensuring New Yorkers are better equipped and prepared for the devastating storms that cause more than $1 billion in damages for New York annually.

    “As Governor, I have made major investments to prepare local leaders and protect communities across New York from the increasingly severe weather events that have cost us billions of dollars in damages and routinely threaten our safety,” Governor Hochul said. “By developing this statewide initiative to guide our ongoing climate resiliency efforts, we are solidifying a commitment to a safe, affordable and sustainable future that all New Yorkers need and deserve.”

    The plan will create a collective vision, principles, planning resources and a gap analysis of existing State agency initiatives, which include a wide array of project types, such as: shoreline restoration, the relocation of critical infrastructure to reduce flood risk, the relocation and raising of flood-prone roadways, and right-sizing dams, bridges and culverts. The coordination initiative for this plan is being led by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Department of State (DOS), Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) and New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), in partnership with other State agencies.

    As part of the first phase of the plan, the State will host a series of webinars in summer 2025. This initial outreach will be followed by more comprehensive engagement opportunities throughout the development of the plan, including additional in-person and virtual events and direct engagement with local governments and key stakeholders such as community-based organizations. Additional information, as well as upcoming opportunities to get involved, will be shared on the plan’s website.

    Recognizing the need for innovative and cross-sector partnerships, the plan will create a unified adaptation and resilience strategy that builds upon and strengthens existing efforts while identifying new options for taking action. New York State will continue to advance investments and initiatives to support local planning and implementation of climate adaptation and resilience actions. Resources immediately available include:

    • Funding through the Climate Smart Communities Grant Program, Green Resiliency Grant Program, Resilient Watershed Grants and other Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act-supported programs;
    • Targeted climate research through the New York State Climate Impacts Assessment;
    • Supporting local and regional planning through programs such as the Smart Growth Countywide Resiliency Planning program, Local Waterfront Revitalization Program and Coastal Lakeshore Economy and Resiliency programs;
    • Hazard-focused statewide planning such as the implementation of the Extreme Heat Action Plan.

    Additional resources and funding opportunities to support state and local adaptation and resilience are available here and through the Environmental Bond Act Funding Finder.

    New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “New Yorkers know all too well how flooding and severe weather driven by climate change can wreak havoc on our communities and the environment. At Governor Hochul’s direction, we are taking action to make sure our communities and natural resources are resilient now and in the future. DEC is proud to lead this multi-agency effort to build, collaborate, and streamline New York State’s collective efforts on adaptation and resilience to ensure our state, communities, and partners are armed with the tools and resources needed to adapt to and prepare for the many impacts of climate change.”

    New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “This comprehensive resiliency plan is yet another example of Governor Hochul’s commitment to protecting lives, properties, businesses and infrastructure from the ravages of climate change. The Department of State stands ready and eager to contribute to this statewide effort to ensure that all corners of the State are prepared for and resilient against a rapidly changing climate.”

    New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, “Over the last year alone, we’ve seen the toll that weather events like flooding and tornadoes can take on communities. By bringing together multiple State agencies to collaborate on methods to mitigate the impacts of climate change, we are taking a proactive approach to address Governor Hochul’s focus on prevention and resiliency. Investing in this work now will help the residents of New York respond and recover quickly and efficiently from storms.”

    NYSERDA President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, “Governor Hochul’s leadership on protecting New Yorkers from the impacts of rising temperatures and extreme weather events is evident through this multi-agency planning process that will advance statewide efforts. NYSERDA looks forward to engaging in this highly collaborative undertaking, which provides for the most efficient and coordinated use of State resources to meet future challenges in a strategic, sustainable way.”

    As part of the 2025 State of the State address, Governor Kathy Hochul also announced a historic $1 billion Sustainable Future Program, a critical investment designed to rapidly generate thousands of jobs, slash energy bills for households and cut harmful pollution.

    New York State’s Climate Agenda 
    New York State’s climate agenda calls for an affordable and just transition to a clean energy economy that creates family-sustaining jobs, promotes economic growth through green investments and directs a minimum of 35 percent of the benefits to disadvantaged communities. New York is advancing a suite of efforts to achieve an emissions-free economy by 2050, including in the energy, buildings, transportation and waste sectors.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tillis Introduces Legislation to Help Small Businesses Affected by Helene

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Thom Tillis recently introduced the Helene Recovery Small Business Act and the Loans in Our Neighborhoods (LIONs) Act of 2025, legislation that would provide much-needed relief to small businesses as they work to recover from the devastation of Helene.
    “Western North Carolina’s small businesses are still reeling from the devastation of Helene, and we have a responsibility to help them rebuild stronger than before,” said Senator Tillis. “These commonsense bills give business owners the tools they need, including greater access to capital and critical disaster aid, which will help them recover and grow. I’m proud to introduce these critical bills to cut red tape and deliver real relief to those who need it most.”
    Background:
    The Helene Small Business Recovery Act would waive the duplication-of-benefits prohibition that currently prevents small businesses that receive SBA disaster loans from also accessing Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds. This change would ensure that businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene can access the full range of federal aid needed to rebuild and recover.
    The LIONs Act amends the Small Business Act by increasing the maximum gross loan amount for section 7(a) loans. The LIONs Act seeks to raise the limit from $5,000,000 to $10,000,000, providing more significant financial support to small businesses. The bill also includes a 75% guaranteed rate on loans of up to $10 million, providing a guarantee from the SBA and making the program more attractive for lenders. 
    Full text of the Helene Recovery Small Business Act is available HERE and the LIONs Act HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – EU-UK trade flows: Continuities, changes and trends – 24-04-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) between the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom (UK), which entered into force in May 2021, governs the EU’s relationship with the UK, following its withdrawal from the EU. In addition to the European Commission evaluating the implementation of the TCA on an annual basis, Article 776 of the TCA provides for a joint review of the deal’s implementation five years after its entry into force, in 2026. On 20 November 2024, the European Parliament’s Conference of Presidents approved a joint request from the Committees on Foreign Affairs (AFET) and on International Trade (INTA) to draw up an implementation report in response to the European Commission’s 21 March 2024 report on the implementation and application of the EU-UK TCA. This briefing seeks to inform the drafting of the joint AFET–INTA implementation report. The briefing provides an analysis of the data on trade flows between the EU and the UK in the last two years (2023 and 2024), in the context of the implementation of the TCA. It should be read in tandem with the European Implementation Assessment on the EU-UK TCA, published by the European Parliamentary Research Service (EPRS) in December 2023, which analyses EU-UK trade flows in the first two years of the TCA’s implementation. That EPRS study was requested by AFET and INTA to inform their 2023 joint implementation report on the same subject. Similar to the 2023 EPRS study, this briefing concludes that the TCA continues to have a stronger impact on the UK than on the EU in the trade relationship. Trade between the EU and the UK continues to be more complex and challenging compared to when the UK was an EU Member State, even if the implementation of the TCA in the last four years has been generally smooth, with some exceptions. The UK has managed to bounce back from COVID and Brexit less successfully than the EU and has, like the EU-27, been affected by Russia’s war in Ukraine and inflation. EU-UK trade in goods decreased slightly in 2023 and 2024, and it is still below pre-Brexit levels. EU-UK trade in services (the TCA does not cover financial services), continues to be less disrupted, and surpassed pre-COVID 19 levels as of 2023. At a time of uncertainty on the future direction of trade policy, geopolitical upheaval, and the United States administration’s (potential) new tariffs on imports from its trading partners (including the UK and the EU), the TCA offers an opportunity to deepen EU-UK trade relations.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Territorial supply restrictions and artificial price increases for basic food products – E-000393/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Territorial supply constraints can impede the good functioning of the Single Market to the detriment of consumers. They facilitate the maintenance of unjustified price differences between geographical markets in the EU for many products, including daily consumer goods.

    Competition law is an effective tool to fight territorial supply constraints if these are imposed unilaterally by companies that are in a dominant position or if they result from anti-competitive agreements between companies.

    This was demonstrated in the AB InBev and in Mondelez cases[1] where the Commission fined these companies for hindering the cross-border trade of certain products. However, territorial supply constraints may also occur outside these conditions.

    For those territorial supply constraints which are not captured by competition law, the Commission has launched a fact-finding exercise with the Member States to map their occurrence across the EU.

    In addition, as announced in the Retail Transition Pathway[2], the Commission will organise on 7 April 2025, a stakeholder dialogue with retailers, manufacturers and consumers to hear their views.

    Against this background, the Commission will identify in the Single Market Strategy to be adopted at the end of May 2025 a way forward so that European consumers can enjoy the benefits of the Single Market, no matter where they reside.

    • [1] https://competition-cases.ec.europa.eu/cases/AT.40632. (regarding Mondelez), and https://competition-cases.ec.europa.eu/cases/AT.40134 (regarding AB InBev).
    • [2] https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/industry/transition-pathways_en
    Last updated: 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –