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Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with Ambassador of the French Republic to ASEAN

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, this morning met with Ambassador of the French Republic to ASEAN, H.E. Fabien Penone, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. Both sides exchanged ideas on ways and means to strengthen the ASEAN-France Development Partnership through meaningful activities on mutually beneficial cooperation areas, as well as discussed on the preparations for the State visit of the President of the French Republic, H.E. Emmanuel Macron, to the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat in the coming months.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with Ambassador of the French Republic to ASEAN appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU track and field athletes successfully completed the winter competition season

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    The Koltsovo Manege hosted two interregional track and field competitions: the Koltsovo Mayor’s Prize and the National Student Cup among students of higher education institutions of the Siberian Federal District. These were the last starts of the winter season, and NSU students showed good results.

    In the Mayor’s Prize competition in the 800 m race, 2nd place was taken by Nika Sigunova (EF), the result of 2.10.78, and 3rd place by Nikita Bosak (MMF), the result of 1.56.27. The top six in the same distance included Alexey Chviruk (MMF) and Miron Gaskov (FIT), and Yana Stepanchuk (FEN) became fifth in the long jump.

    12 universities from different cities of Siberia took part in the National Student Cup, and the NSU team took 5th place in the team standings.

    In the individual championship, FIT student Miron Gaskov managed to win the 600 m race with a record of the arena!

    The team also included:

    Danil Kasyanov, Gleb Mamonov, Daria Zavalishina and Olga Trofimova (MMF), Alexander Lapushinsky and Irina Katsuk (FIT), Andrey Birkin and Danil Merzaev (EF), Ksenia Zubareva (FEN), Arseniy Tikhanchik (IFP) and Artem Golovin (GI)

    Congratulations to the winners of the medals of the interregional status competitions! We thank the team and the coach – teacher of the KAFV Anton Mamekov for a good performance and wish you success in the upcoming summer competition season!

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with Ambassador of the French Republic to ASEAN

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, this morning met with Ambassador of the French Republic to ASEAN, H.E. Fabien Penone, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. Both sides exchanged ideas on ways and means to strengthen the ASEAN-France Development Partnership through meaningful activities on mutually beneficial cooperation areas, as well as discussed on the preparations for the State visit of the President of the French Republic, H.E. Emmanuel Macron, to the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat in the coming months.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with Ambassador of the French Republic to ASEAN appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Angelus of the Second Sunday of Lent

    Source: The Holy See

    The following is the text prepared by the Holy Father Francis for the Angelus of this second Sunday of Lent:

    Text prepared by the Holy Father

    Dear brothers and sisters, happy Sunday!
    Today, the second Sunday of Lent, the Gospel tells us about the Transfiguration of Jesus (Lk 9:28-36). Having climbed to the top of a mountain with Peter, James and John, Jesus immerses Himself in prayer and becomes radiant with light. In this way, He shows the disciples what is hidden behind the gestures He performs in their midst: the light of His infinite love.
    I am sharing these thoughts with you while I am facing a period of trial, and I join with so many brothers and sisters who are sick: fragile, at this time, like me. Our bodies are weak but, even like this, nothing can prevent us from loving, praying, giving ourselves, being for each other, in faith, shining signs of hope. How much light shines, in this sense, in hospitals and places of care! How much loving care illuminates the rooms, the corridors, the clinics, the places where the humblest services are performed! That is why I would like to invite you, today, to join me in praising the Lord, who never abandons us and who, in times of sorrow, places people beside us who reflect a ray of His love.
    I thank you all for your prayers, and I thank those who assist me with such dedication. I know that many children are praying for me; some of them came here today to “Gemelli” as a sign of closeness. Thank you, dearest children! The Pope loves you and is always waiting to meet you.
    Let us continue to pray for peace, especially in the countries wounded by war: tormented Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
    And let us also pray for the Church, required to translate into concrete choices the discernment made in the recent Synodal Assembly. I thank the General Secretariat of the Synod, which over the coming three years will accompany the local Churches in this undertaking.
    May the Virgin Mary keep you and help you to be, like Her, bearers of Christ’s light and peace.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Many of history’s deadliest building fires have been in nightclubs. Here’s why they’re so dangerous

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Milad Haghani, Associate Professor & Principal Fellow in Urban Risk & Resilience, The University of Melbourne

    A fire at a nightclub in North Macedonia has killed at least 59 people and injured more than 150. The blaze broke out at the Pulse nightclub in Kočani, where around 500 people were attending a concert.

    Witnesses reported that pyrotechnics used during the performance ignited the ceiling, causing flames to spread rapidly.

    Authorities have arrested 20 people so far, including the club’s manager. Investigations continue. The North Macedonian government has declared a seven-day mourning period.

    While building fires are not limited to nightclubs, many of the most devastating building fires in history have happened in nightclubs around the world. So why are nightclubs such a risky place for deadly fires?

    A long history of nightclub fires

    A look at past nightclub fires shows just how common and deadly they’ve been in the past 100 years. We identified at least 24 nightclub fires where ten or more people died since 1940.

    Collectively, these 24 incidents account for at least 2,800 deaths, with nearly 1,300 in the 21st century alone.

    The Cocoanut Grove fire (Boston, 1942) remains the deadliest on record, killing 492 people. The club’s flammable decorations and locked exits turned what should have been an ordinary night out into one of the worst fire disasters in history.

    In Argentina, the República Cromañón fire killed 194 people in 2004, caused by pyrotechnics igniting flammable materials inside the club.

    The Kiss nightclub fire in Brazil in 2013 was even deadlier, claiming 242 lives.

    More recently, Thailand’s Mountain B nightclub fire killed 23 people in 2022.

    And in 2023, 13 people died in a fire at the Fonda Milagros nightclub in Spain.

    Now, North Macedonia’s Pulse nightclub joins this long list.

    Why are nightclubs so risky for fires?

    A review of past nightclub fires we’ve collated in our database reveals common patterns. Two key factors have contributed to the frequency and severity of these fire disasters.

    1. Pyrotechnics, fireworks and flammable materials

    One of the most common causes of nightclub fires has been the use of pyrotechnics in enclosed spaces. Pyrotechnics are controlled chemical reactions designed to produce flames, smoke, or light effects.

    They have been involved in at least six of the deadliest nightclub fires, including the recent Pulse nightclub fire in North Macedonia, as well as The Station (United States, 2003), Kiss (Brazil, 2013), Colectiv (Romania, 2015), Lame Horse (Russia, 2009) and República Cromañón (Argentina, 2004).

    When used indoors, pyrotechnics can easily ignite flammable ceiling materials, acoustic foam, or decorations.

    In some cases, fireworks – which are different from stage pyrotechnics and sometimes illegally used indoors – have played a role. The Lame Horse nightclub fire, which killed 156 people in Russia in 2009, was caused by a spark from fireworks igniting a low ceiling covered in flammable plastic decorations.

    Even when fires don’t start from pyrotechnics or fireworks, the materials used in nightclub interiors can rapidly turn a small fire into a major disaster.

    Foam insulation, wooden panelling, plastic decorations and carpeted walls have all been key factors in past nightclub fires. In Cocoanut Grove (Boston, 1942), artificial palm trees and other flammable decorations accelerated the blaze.

    2. Overcrowding and blocked or insufficient exits

    Evacuation failures have been a factor in nearly every major nightclub fire.

    In some instances, crowds may not immediately recognise the severity of the situation, especially if they mistake alarms for false alarms or special effects (for example, smoke machines, loud music).

    Further, patrons could be intoxicated due alcohol or other drugs. Intoxication combined with potential disorientation due to dim lighting can further reduce judgement during an evacuation.

    Clearly, the best way to protect patrons is to prevent a fire from breaking out in the first place. But in settings where fire risks are inherently high, the ability to evacuate people swiftly is crucial.

    Nightclubs, however, have a poor track record when it comes to evacuation safety measures.

    Nightclubs are among the most crowded indoor spaces. While crowd density is part of a nightclub’s design and atmosphere, overcrowding beyond legal capacity is common.

    A crowd that has gradually gathered over several hours must suddenly evacuate in seconds or minutes to survive a fire. This is made more difficult by narrow hallways and limited exits, which quickly become bottlenecks when hundreds of people attempt to escape at once.

    What’s more, not all exits are always accessible during a fire. In several past nightclub disasters, locked or obstructed emergency exits have significantly worsened the death toll.

    Minimising the risks

    Nightclubs are uniquely vulnerable to fires due to a combination of structural risks, unsafe materials, overcrowding and regulatory failures.

    While human behaviour plays a role in how fires unfold in confined spaces such as nightclubs, people should be able to go for a night out and expect to come home safely.

    Regulatory oversight must ensure strict compliance with fire codes. Venues should have fire suppression systems (such as sprinklers, fire extinguishers and smoke detectors) to control or contain fires before they spread, and adequate exits.

    Nightclubs should ban indoor pyrotechnics and fireworks, as history has repeatedly shown their deadly consequences.

    Capacity limits must be enforced, and emergency exits should always be accessible.

    Australia has strict fire safety regulations for nightclubs, with venues required to have fire suppression systems, emergency exits and trained staff to manage fire risks.

    Public awareness is also key. Patrons need to understand the real risk of fires in nightclubs, and be prepared to evacuate swiftly but calmly if danger arises.

    Ruggiero Lovreglio receives funding from Royal Society Te Apārangi (NZ) and National Institute of Standards and Technology (USA).

    Milad Haghani 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. Many of history’s deadliest building fires have been in nightclubs. Here’s why they’re so dangerous – https://theconversation.com/many-of-historys-deadliest-building-fires-have-been-in-nightclubs-heres-why-theyre-so-dangerous-252372

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Radical action plan to cut red tape and kickstart growth

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Radical action plan to cut red tape and kickstart growth

    The Chancellor will meet top regulator bosses in Downing Street today (Monday 17 March) as she unveils an action plan to deliver on the pledge to cut the administrative cost of regulation on business by a quarter, make Britain the best place to do business and drive economic growth.

    • Chancellor meets regulators in Downing Street as she unveils action plan to cut red tape as part of Plan for Change to kickstart economic growth.

    • Radical shake up will boost infrastructure building by simplifying guidance to protect bat habitats that blocks vital new homes and infrastructure.

    • Business to save billions as more regulators are axed and core legal duties are streamlined.

    • Action plan comes alongside 60 growth-boosting measures from watchdogs designed to make it easier to do business in the UK and delivers on the Prime Minister’s pledge to cut administration costs for businesses by a quarter.

    The radical shake up will cut costly red tape that fails to deliver for local communities, such as hundreds of pages of guidance on protecting bat habitats – which goes far beyond legal requirements, needlessly costs businesses money and slows down planning decisions for major infrastructure projects.  

    A streamlined process for environmental regulations will also be put in place for major projects. This could include Lower Thames Crossing, subject to planning approval, as well as future schemes like Heathrow expansion. The new system will require just one point of contact and will end the merry-go-round of developers seeking planning approvals from multiple authorities who often disagree with each other.  

    This Action Plan will save businesses across the country billions of pounds by cutting the number of regulators, streamlining their core legal duties and cracking down on complexity in the regulatory system. 

    The Plan comes after the Prime Minister set out his vision for a more lean and agile state in a speech last week, abolishing the world’s biggest quango – NHS England – to scrap duplication and give more power and tools to local leaders so they can better deliver for their communities. The Prime Minister and Chancellor are clear that regulators must work for the people of Britain, not get in the way of progress.  

    Following weeks of intense negotiations, watchdogs have signed up to 60 growth boosting measures – including:  

    • Fast-tracking new medicines to market through a new pilot to provide parallel authorisations from key healthcare regulators, so that patients can access the medicine they need quicker;

    • Attracting more investment from international financial services firms by setting up a bespoke ‘concierge service’ to help them get to grips with UK regulations, making it easier to do business in the UK;

    • Paving the way for package deliveries by drone, as the Civil Aviation Authority permits at least two more large drone-flying trials in the coming months – which have already helped cut travel times for blood samples from 30 minutes down to 2 minutes between hospitals – and streamlines the regulatory process for manufacturing drones;

    • Allowing families to manage their spending safely as the Financial Conduct Authority reviews contactless payment limits, including the £100 cap on individual payments, while speeding up queues at checkout.

    • Support for homeownership as the Financial Conduct Authority simplifies mortgage lending rules, including making it easier to re-mortgage with a new lender and reduce mortgage terms.

    • Helping start-ups secure funding to grow through the Financial Conduct Authority issuing more notices where they are likely to approve applications from budding entrepreneurs.

    The government will continue to work closely with regulators to ensure they are regulating for growth, not just risk. Cabinet Ministers will report back to the Chancellor in the summer with further suggestions for streamlining the regulatory landscape and better regulation will be a key part of the upcoming Modern Industrial Strategy.    

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said: 

    “The world is changing and that’s why we must go further and faster to deliver on our Plan for Change to kickstart economic growth. Today we are taking further action to free businesses from the shackles of regulation. By cutting red tape and creating a more effective system, we will boost investment, create jobs and put more money into working people’s pockets.”  

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: 

    “Unnecessary regulation chokes competition and stifles business – that’s why we’re taking action to unleash industry right across the UK to go for growth.  

    “With a regulatory system that encourages innovation and economic growth combined with our Industrial Strategy, our Plan for Change can make the UK the best place to startup, invest and thrive.”  

    Further pro-business measures announced today include cutting red tape that blocks new housing and infrastructure.  

    It should not be the case that to convert a garage or outbuilding you need to wade through hundreds of pages of guidance on bats.  Environmental guidance, including on protecting bats, will be looked at afresh. Natural England has agreed to review and update their advice to Local Planning Authorities on bats to ensure there is clear, proportionate and accessible advice available.  

    We will make it simpler and faster for projects to agree environmental permits, in some case removing them altogether for low-risk and temporary projects, putting an end to delays that can slow down decisions needed to get spades in the ground. Combined with the appointment of a single lead environmental regulator, this will speed up approvals and save businesses millions in time and resource.    The government will also consult on allowing regulators to be more agile in making sensible decisions on which low-risk activities should be exempt from environmental permits. This will allow them to focus on high-impact, high-priority areas, such as low-carbon infrastructure – while ensuring nature protections are not weakened.    

    These come alongside action to crack down on complexity in the UK regulatory system, with the Chancellor promising to significantly cut the number of regulators by the end of the Parliament to reduce overlap.    

    Regulators will be summoned for performance reviews twice a year from the relevant Secretary of State and will be judged against a set of targets agreed with the businesses they affect, which could how quickly they make decision on planning applications and new licenses for businesses and products. The regulators will immediately begin discussing these targets with businesses and publish them by June. 

    Following the decision to primarily consolidate the Payment Systems Regulator into the Financial Conduct Authority, the Regulator for Community Interest Companies will be folded into Companies House to avoid duplicative disclosure requirements for companies which provide a benefit to their community. Cabinet ministers will report back to the Chancellor by the summer with further suggestions to cut numbers and create a more effective system.  

    Major regulators will also have their legal duties slimmed down, so that they do not waste time satisfying redundant duties that do not align with their core purpose or the public’s priorities. This work will begin with the financial services regulators, energy watchdog Ofgem, water regulator Ofwat and the Office for Road and Rail.  

    The Treasury will also explore ways to streamline financial services regulators’ ‘have regards’ to improve predictability and business confidence. The role of the Financial Ombudsman Service will also be reviewed to ensure that it is acting as an impartial service that provides quick and predictable resolutions to disputes – not as a quasi-regulator.   

    The new system will also support businesses to innovate instead of putting obstacles in the way, led by Lord Willetts as Chair of the Regulatory Innovation Office (RIO). The RIO works with businesses and regulators to embed a pro-innovation regulatory system that enables ground-breaking new technologies to reach the market quicker.   

    The RIO is focused on ensuring regulation supports transformative applications of emerging technologies, for example using AI to improve the efficiency and accuracy of radiology reporting, and the use of engineering biology by world leading UK companies developing innovative foods like lab grown meats.  

    Stakeholder quotes: 

    Rain Newton-Smith, CEO of the CBI, said:   

    “The UK’s Gordian knot of regulations hinders investment with compliance costs that are too high, leaving us trailing the international competition. Today’s announcement signals a shift towards a more proportionate, outcomes based approach that should deliver more sustainable growth and investment.  

    “Smart, proportionate regulation could be the UK’s international calling card once more, bringing confidence and easing the burden on many sectors.   

    “This announcement builds on the welcome commitment from the Prime Minister to reduce the thicket of regulation, and it is critical that this approach is reflected across the board including finding a landing zone for the Employment Rights Bill that supports growth, investment, and jobs.” 

    Irene Graham OBE, CEO of the ScaleUp Institute, said: 

    “It is excellent to see the Government turning its Plan for Change into real practical action. 

    “Scaling businesses have long cited infrastructure constraints and regulatory hurdles as hampering their growth. The practical initiatives set out in this Action Plan on planning reforms, the fast tracking, simplifying and streamlining of regulatory approvals and processes, and the emergence of concierge services should collectively have a significant impact in propelling the growth of these innovative firms forward across every sector and local economy.  

    “We look forward to continuing to work with the government on the next steps of this pro-growth regulatory agenda.” 

    David Postings, Chief Executive of UK Finance, said: 

    “We need a regulatory environment that supports investment and is internationally competitive. I’ve been delighted to see the progress already made by government and regulators, who are listening to the ideas put forward by UK Finance and industry and taking bold action. Today’s announcement builds on that progress, most notably reviewing how the Financial Ombudsman Service operates. It currently acts as a quasi-regulator, which was not the original intention, and addressing this issue is a key one for our sector. I look forward to continuing to work with the government to ensure financial services helps deliver growth up and down the country.” 

    Debbie Crosbie, CEO of Nationwide, said: 

    “I welcome the government’s decisive action to deliver better regulation. Clear and predictable rules will help firms focus on growth and innovation for the benefit of consumers. The target to reduce the administrative cost of regulation by 25% could make a meaningful difference to the regulatory burden and economic growth.”  

    Craig Beaumont, Executive Director of the Federation of Small Businesses, said: 

    “Today’s announcement shows the Chancellor is willing to put in the hard yards to let businesses do what they do best. Business owners are not bureaucrats. The delays, time wasting and sheer stress from having to handle layers of poorly designed regulation makes it harder and harder for small businesses to grow, generate jobs and provide for their customers. 

    “Every month a project might be delayed makes it harder to go ahead, and every second wasted on unnecessary forms is time away from business, staff and family. We have made clear recommendations to CEOs of the regulators visiting No.10 today, to transform regulation so they help, not hinder, small business growth and investment.  This is a necessary pre-condition for increasing living standards, building a stronger economy and creating new jobs.” 

    Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said: 

    “This is an eye-catching package of measures which has a real potential to speed up decision-making and give businesses more certainty. 

    “Changes that would fast-track major infrastructure projects, such as the Lower Thames Crossing and Heathrow expansion, are especially welcome. 

    “Over half of firms tell us they are planning to raise prices, and with fresh uncertainty around tariffs, a 25 percent cut in the cost of regulation would be very welcome.” 

    Notes to editors 

    • The Action Plan can be found here. This sets out the strategic vision and actions that will be taken to create a regulatory system that drives growth while continuing to protect millions of people.

    • Regulators in attendance at the meeting:

    • Financial Conduct Authority

    • Prudential Regulation Authority

    • Environment Agency

    • Natural England

    • Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency

    • Health and Safety Executive

    • Information Commissioner’s Office

    • The Regulatory Innovation Office

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: First meeting of Great British Energy board members

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    First meeting of Great British Energy board members

    Inaugural meeting of the Great British Energy start-up board takes place in Aberdeen to drive the UK’s clean energy future.

    • Great British Energy start-up board meet for the first time in Aberdeen 

    • Publicly owned company will drive forward the government’s Plan for Change and clean energy superpower mission, backed by £8.3 billion  

    Great British Energy’s start-up board members will meet in Aberdeen today (Monday 17 March) to discuss scaling up the company and kickstarting investments, to deliver the government’s Plan for Change and clean energy superpower mission. 

    Great British Energy is owned by the British people, for the British people, and will own and invest in clean energy projects across the UK to create good, skilled jobs and growth.    

    Energy Minister Michael Shanks will convene the meeting alongside Start-up Chair Juergen Maier and interim CEO Dan McGrail to discuss next steps for the organisation and building up an investment portfolio that will return a profit for the British people. 

    Great British Energy has already begun engaging with the market on potential collaborations to ensure it can quickly start delivering for the British taxpayer once it is fully established, backed by £8.3 billion over this Parliament.  

    Energy Minister Michael Shanks said: 

    We now have a fantastic team in place to lead Great British Energy and establish the company in Aberdeen. 

    By unlocking homegrown clean power projects, Great British Energy will support thousands of well-paid jobs in Scotland and across the country, and deliver energy security for the British people. 

    Today’s meeting of the new board members marks another step forward for the company as it gears up to make its first investments. 

    Great British Energy Start-up Chair Juergen Maier said: 

    We are working on a plan to invest in and deliver homegrown clean power, supporting the next generation of energy jobs.  

    We are already engaging with industry on exciting investment opportunities so we can hit the ground running once Great British Energy is fully established. 

    Together we will back British innovation and support the creation of thousands of jobs in clean energy projects and their supply chains in the North East of Scotland alone. 

    Interim Great British Energy CEO Dan McGrail said: 

    Great British Energy is perfectly placed to take advantage of the clean energy revolution for the benefit of the British people. As I take up post as interim CEO today, I’m pleased to bring our new board members together in Aberdeen to discuss our plans to invest in secure, homegrown clean power – unleashing jobs and crowding in private investment. 

    It follows the appointment of the interim CEO, five non-executive directors, and chair to the company’s start-up board. On Tuesday 18 March, Juergen Maier will convene a skills roundtable to work with industry to help oil and gas workers in north-east Scotland access opportunities in clean energy jobs. The roundtable is due to be attended by organisations including Skills Development Scotland, Scottish Trades Union Congress, Green Free Ports Cromarty and Leith, ETZ Ltd and Aberdeen & Grampian Chambers of Commerce.  

    Background

    Great British Energy start-up board members include: 

    • Chair of Great British Energy Juergen Maier 

    • Interim CEO of Great British Energy Dan McGrail 

    • Minister for Energy Michael Shanks 

    • Non-Executive Directors of Great British Energy: 

    • Frances O’Grady  

    • Frank Mitchell  

    • Kate Gilmartin  

    • Dr. Nina Skorupska CBE FEI  

    • Valerie Todd CBE

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Investing in renewables revolution

    Source: Scottish Government

    £10 million planned for Port of Nigg project.

    Public investment is planned for a major redevelopment project at Port of Nigg in the Highlands.

    Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has approved up to £10 million to support development of the port’s Inner East Quay, which will result in the creation of a new heavy-duty quayside and the introduction of roll-on roll-off capability.

    The project, which is subject to formal approval by Global Energy Nigg Limited, will increase capacity and capabilities at the port, attracting new companies and investment while supporting operations across the country’s growing offshore wind operations.

    HIE’s investment forms part of the Scottish Government’s commitment to strategically invest up to £500m over five years to anchor the nation’s offshore wind supply chain.

    Port of Nigg is recognised by developers as a prime location for the manufacturing and assembly of offshore wind components and has a significant track record within Scotland’s offshore wind industry, having managed over 3.5GW of assets through the facility.

    In 2024, high voltage cable manufacturer Sumitomo Electric Power Cables Ltd chose to establish a £350 million high voltage cable manufacturing facility in the area – with Nigg serving as the primary export facility.

    Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said:

    “This is a prime example of how we and our enterprise agencies are focused on stimulating investment and targeting projects that will in turn act as a catalyst to further investment, jobs and opportunities.

    “Given its location and being part of Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport, The Port of Nigg is strategically important to the growth and success of the offshore wind sector. An investment of this nature sends a clear signal to investors that Scotland is open for business, and the Scottish Government and our partners stand ready to help unleash the enormous economic benefits of our offshore wind industry.”

    HIE’s director of strategic projects David Oxley, said:

    “Our support for this project is about keeping the UK and the Highlands and Islands region at the forefront of the energy sector, particularly renewable energy, and strengthening our international competitiveness.

    “There are many obvious benefits for the region’s economy and job creation. I’m delighted we’ve been able to facilitate further Scottish Government funding and look forward to continuing our collaboration with our public sector partners and industry as the project develops.”

    Chairman of Global Energy Group Roy MacGregor, said:

    “We welcome this significant investment from HIE and the Scottish Government, which reinforces their commitment to strengthening Scotland’s offshore wind supply chain. Since acquiring Nigg in 2011, we have invested more than £120 million in transforming the facility into a world-class offshore wind superhub, ensuring it remains at the forefront of the energy transition.

    “Today, renewables account for half of our revenue at both GEG and Nigg, underlining the critical role this sector plays in our business and the wider economy. Strategically positioned to support Scotland’s future offshore wind projects through ScotWind and INTOG, Nigg will drive sustainable job creation and long-term economic prosperity for the Highlands.”

    Background

    This project is being led by Global Energy Nigg Limited, a subsidiary of Global Energy Group (which acquired the Port of Nigg in 2011) and the agreed HIE funding is subject to formal approval by the company.

    The Port of Nigg project is expected to create around five jobs directly while supporting more than a hundred downstream at Nigg in further supply chain activity at the port.

    Sumitomo’s decision to base a facility in Scotland was secured with £24.5 million investment from the Scottish Government, HIE and Scottish Enterprise and is expected to create around 330 jobs over the next 10 year

    Recent investments made as part of the Scottish Government’s commitment of up to £500 million include:

    Scottish Ministers will host a Global Offshore Wind Investment Forum today as part of a Green Industrial Strategy commitment to raise the profile of Scotland as a destination for capital investment.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Stay safe when you are down on the farm this Springtime

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    To avoid illness and enjoy a fun day out the UK Health Security Agency advises people to:

    • always wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm running water immediately after contact with animals (including touching pens or fencing) and before eating or drinking – remember, hand gels and wipes do not kill these types of germs.
    • if a dummy drops on the ground, it will need sterilising.
    • when leaving a farm, boots, shoes and pushchair wheels should be washed, remembering to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after cleaning.
    • after holding, or having any physical contact with an animal, wash clothing at 40 degrees centigrade or warmer.

    Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing, said: “As Springtime approaches, visiting farms and petting zoos is a fun activity for many of us, especially children and families.

    “When enjoying farm visits, it’s important to remember that some animals may carry germs that can be passed on to humans and cause unpleasant infections such as cryptosporidiosis, e-coli and salmonella. 

    “Bacteria from an animal’s body, environment or droppings can easily get on your hands after petting, cuddling or feeding, or even by simply touching their pens or fences. If you then touch your eyes, nose or mouth, it only takes a small amount to cause an infection.

    “These infections can make you unwell with symptoms including diarrhoea, vomiting, fever, nausea and body aches. For young children, pregnant women, elderly or immunocompromised people, these infections can be serious, so please take care when you are out and about this Spring.”

    Anyone who feels unwell or has any symptoms such as diarrhoea or vomiting within 2 weeks of visiting a farm is asked to contact their GP or call NHS 111 as soon as possible. Anyone who has bloody diarrhoea should seek immediate emergency medical attention.

    People who have experienced sickness or diarrhoea after visiting a farm could pass the illness on to others, so they should not attend work, school or nursery until they have been free of symptoms for at least 2 days. However, with infections from some bugs, extra tests may be needed to ensure they have fully recovered and will not pass on the infection to others.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: School where pupils go on ‘journey of self discovery’ rated Good

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Inspectors visited Evergreen Academy last month and, in their report published today (Monday 17 March, 2025), found that pupils leave the school ‘believing in themselves as learners and as individuals who can contribute positively to society’.

    Evergreen Academy’s new leadership team ‘has brought stability and many strengths to a range of areas’. Decisions are focused on the pupils because every person within the Shaw Education Trust and the school ‘is a staunch advocate’ for them. These factors ‘combine to make a positive and powerful difference to pupils’ experience, enjoyment and achievement’.

    The school has thought carefully about the needs and experiences of pupils while putting its curriculum together. Staff ‘value the support they receive’ to deliver it, and pupils are given the ‘skills, self belief and strategies to support their highly successful move to their next setting’.

    Inspectors say ‘a real strength’ is the school’s use of reflection sessions held at the end of each day. These are underpinned by relationships and respect and help pupils ‘grow in their skill of knowing right from wrong, not just in their behaviour and learning but also with their personal safety’.

    Pupils ‘speak highly of the difference that the school makes to them’, and feel safe, cared for and listened to. They ‘develop effective ways to manage their behaviour and emotions’, which helps them learn in class.

    The school also enables pupils to take part in a range of extra curricular activities and opportunities, with pupils shared proudly with inspectors how they learn to express themselves in different ways.

    Meanwhile, parents and carers ‘see and appreciate’ the positive difference that the school makes to their child, and their future.

    Inspectors concluded that Evergreen Academy has taken effective action to maintain the standards identified at its last inspection in 2019, when it was judged to be Good.

    Executive Headteacher Daniel Hartley said: “We are thrilled with this Ofsted report, which reflects the dedication and hard work of our entire school community.

    “This achievement would not have been possible without the support of our students, staff, and parents, as well as the guidance from Shaw Education Trust.  

    “I would also like to acknowledge the strong relationships we have with the SEND and Inclusion team at the City of Wolverhampton Council. Together, we have created an environment where every child can embark on a journey of self discovery and reach their full potential.”

    Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, added: “Evergreen Academy is a pupil referral unit for vulnerable children and young people who are either at risk of exclusion or having been excluded. This is a fantastic report and demonstrates the brilliant level of support it is giving to pupils which is totally transforming their prospects.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council supports Food Waste Action Week to help residents reduce waste and save money

    Source: City of Derby

    Derby City Council has teamed up with Love Food Hate Waste for this year’s Food Waste Action Week, running from Monday 17 to Sunday 23 March,  to encourage residents to reduce their food waste and save money. Every year, a staggering 9.5 million tonnes of food ends up in the bin – wasting money and valuable resources. Food Waste Action Week is the flagship annual event delivered by WRAP’s Love Food Hate Waste, providing households with simple, practical ways to cut food waste at home.

    This year’s campaign highlights the benefits of buying loose fruit and vegetables – helping people purchase only what they need, reduce food waste, and unnecessary plastic packaging.  With food waste costing the average family of four around £1,000 per year, small changes like this can make a huge difference. By adopting these measures, households can reduce waste, save money, and contribute to a more sustainable food system.

    Jackie Bailey, Senior Campaign Manager Love Food Hate Waste, said:

    We know buying loose fruit and veg has the potential to significantly cut the amount of food ending up in the bin – now is the time for retailers and shoppers to make that a reality. Increasing loose fruit and veg offerings in store will not only reduce hard to recycle plastics, it will also enable shoppers to buy closer to their needs, slashing waste and stopping tens of thousands of tonnes of CO2 emissions.

    Councillor Ndukwe Onuoha, Cabinet Member for Streetpride, Public Safety and Leisure said:

    As a Council, we recognise the importance of reducing food waste and encourage everyone in Derby to take part in this campaign. With budgets tighter than ever, every penny saved makes a difference. Choosing loose fruit and vegetables not only helps cut costs but also reduces plastic waste and supports environmental protection, benefiting the whole community.

    The Food Waste Action Week runs from 17 to 23 March 2025 and if you want to find out more, you can visit the WRAP’s Love Food Hate Waste website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU students became prize winners at the XV Regional Olympiad in Surgery of the Siberian Federal District

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    The Olympiad was held on February 26-28 at the Novosibirsk State Medical University. Talented students from all over the Siberian Federal District came to the event to compete in more than twenty contests, including tying surgical knots, kidney and nerve transplants, and operations on experimental animals.

    The Olympiad lasted three days. Two of them were devoted to performing various operations, and on the last day, participants were tested on their ability to tie knots at speed, and also looked through creative business cards.

    — In the future, I plan to connect my life with neurosurgery, and the Olympiad is a great place to meet colleagues and mentors, as well as further hone my skills, learn weak points in order to work on them. The most difficult thing was not even the operations themselves, since we worked on them for a long time, but in the moment to cope with anxiety, calm my hands so that they do not shake, find a way out if I made a mistake, but the team helps a lot with this, — admits Ekaterina Vasenina, a 4th-year student Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, NSU, which became a prize winner in the nominations “Plastic Surgery” and “Microvascular Anastomosis” as an operator.

    — I decided to take part because I dream of becoming a trauma surgeon, and since childhood, thanks to my father, I have been surrounded by the attributes of surgery in one way or another — surgical instruments were used at home on par with construction ones, medical cases were discussed at the table. When I found out that I had become a prize winner, to be honest, I squealed with joy and hurried to brag to my parents, grandparents. For me, participating in an Olympiad of this format was a debut, so I am very proud of myself and my team! Despite the fact that we gathered for training before the Olympiad, we never performed the entire operation “from start to finish” before the Olympiad, which is why our success was also a surprise. My team — Sergey and Yaroslav — are great, they got together and did what we had never managed to do during training. I am proud of them! We all tried hard, and this was reflected in the result we got – we deserved the prize place, said Sofia Eksharova, a 4th year student. Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, NSU, which became a prize winner in the nomination “Osteometallosynthesis” as an operator.

    Individual results for competitions in which NSU students won prizes:

    — Plastic surgery PSO: operator — E. Vasenina, assistant — D. Akhtyrtseva.

    — Osteometallosynthesis: operator — S. Eksharova, assistant — S. Balasov, nurse — Ya. Rusanov.

    — Microvascular anastomosis: operator — E. Vasenina, assistant — D. Akhtyrtseva.

    — It was both unexpected and joyful. I was an operator at 3 stages, but I was completely satisfied with my work only at one operation, it was with it that I took first place, in the remaining two I understood that there were moments that needed to be worked on, but for one of them I received third place, which, of course, was a pleasant moment, — shared Ekaterina Vasenina.

    For Ekaterina and Sofia, this was the first experience of participating in an Olympiad of such a scale, which gave them a ton of impressions, acquaintances and motivation to develop skills and knowledge.

    Congratulations to the guys on their victories!

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/VIETNAM – Appointment of auxiliary bishop of Hung Hoá

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Saturday, 15 March 2025

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – The Holy Father has appointed the Reverend Paul Nguyen Quang Dinh, until now vicar general of the diocese of Hung Hoá, Vietnam, responsible for Son Loc Cathedral and the diocesan liturgical Commission, as auxiliary bishop of the same diocese, assigning him the titular see of Voncaria.Msgr. Paul Nguyen Quang Dinh was born on 18 May 1973 in Son Thuy, in the diocese of Hung Hoá. He studied philosophy and theology at Saint Joseph Major Seminary in Hanoi.He was ordained a priest on 29 November 2005 for the diocese of Hung Hoá.After ordination, he first served as parish vicar of Du Ba in Hung Hoá (2006) and parish priest of Ngo Xa in Hung Hoá (2006-2009). He studied for a master’s degree in liturgy and sacramental theology at the Institut Catholique de Paris, France (2009-2016), and went on to hold the offices of parish priest of Yen Tap in Hung Hoá (2016-2019), and parish priest of Tuyên Quang in Hung Hoá (2019-2022).Since 2022 he has been vicar general and responsible for the Son Loc Cathedral and the liturgical Commission of the diocese of Hung Hoá. (Agenzia Fides, 15/3/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Angelus – Pope Francis from the Gemelli Hospital: “I join with so many brothers and sisters who are sick: Our bodies are weak but, even like this, nothing can prevent us from loving and praying”

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Sunday, 16 March 2025

    Vatican Media

    Rome (Agenzia Fides) – In the Transfiguration, “Jesus shows the disciples what is hidden behind the gestures He performs in their midst: the light of His infinite love,” reads Pope Francis’s text for the Angelus prayer, published by the Vatican this Sunday, referring to the Gospel for the second Sunday of Lent.”I am sharing these thoughts with you,” the Pope writes, “while I am facing a period of trial, and I join with so many brothers and sisters who are sick: fragile, at this time, like me. Our bodies are weak but, even like this, nothing can prevent us from loving, praying, giving ourselves, being for each other, in faith, shining signs of hope.””How much light shines,” the Bishop of Rome continues in his reflections, “in this sense, in hospitals and places of care! How much loving care illuminates the rooms, the corridors, the clinics, the places where the humblest services are performed! That is why I would like to invite you, today, to join me in praising the Lord, who never abandons us and who, in times of sorrow, places people beside us who reflect a ray of His love.”The Pope, whose condition is slowly but steadily improving according to medical reports, thanks “everyone for your prayers” and, he writes, “those who assist me with such dedication. I know that many children are praying for me; some of them came here today to “Gemelli” as a sign of closeness. Thank you, dearest children! The Pope loves you and is always waiting to meet you.”In the morning, around 500 children gathered in the square forecourt of the Gemelli Hospital, where the statue of John Paul II stands. This was a delegation of children of many nationalities, supported by UNICEF and the Caritas office of the Diocese of Aversa, who expressed their affection for the Pope in this way.From the hospital, Pope Francis asked again to continue “to pray for peace, especially in the countries wounded by war: tormented Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo”. (F.B.) (Agenzia Fides, 16/3/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Unchanged global climate policies will cost India 19% and world 15% of GDP by 2050 | Interview with The Economic Times

    Source: Deutsche Bundesbank in English

    The interview was conducted by Deepshikha Sikarwar & Vinay Pandey.
    How do you see US president Donald Trump’s election weighing in on the entire climate debate?
    We are central bankers and supervisors, so we are non-political. We are data-dependent and science-based. We are here together to discuss the impact of climate and nature-related risks on our economies. Talking about climate change in general, there are two major risks: physical risks; meaning increasing numbers of droughts, floods, hurricanes and wildfires. And transition risks, which are the costs and consequences of the transition to net zero.
    If climate policy falls short then, of course, economic and financial risks will increase. That’s what central banks must look at. We analyze the data and see what kind of impact climate change has on the economy. That’s our job. We must deal with these risks, and we will address them, also towards governments.
    What does the withdrawal of the US Federal Reserve mean for NGFS and its agenda? 
    The NGFS was founded at the end of 2017. At that time, we were only eight members. Now we are 144. The Fed, as you just mentioned, left in January. Except for the US, none of the members have exited so far. Instead, thirteen new members have joined since I took over as NGFS Chair at the start of 2024. So, we are still a growing organization.
    And our agenda stays the same, because it has nothing to do with the exit of one member. If we see deregulation, if we see climate being taken off the policy agenda, then we might see increasing physical risk, meaning an acceleration of climate change. And that might mean that we even become more vocal on the risks we see.
    How do you see India’s progress? What more needs to be done?
    It’s not up to me to judge the stance and actions of our colleagues from the Reserve Bank of India. I just mentioned our latest update on the long-term scenarios about GDP being 15 % lower, worldwide, than in a world without climate change. For India, the GDP loss is even bigger. If the world keeps its current policies unchanged, global temperatures are expected to rise by three degrees Celsius (on average). And this could cost India roughly 19 % of GDP by 2050, compared to a world without climate change. So, for India, we show that climate change can have even more serious consequences than elsewhere. And, at the same time, the scenarios show that India is among those countries who would benefit the most from a global transition towards net zero emissions.
    You’ve said your actions are data dependent. What is the data telling us in terms of the economic impact of climate change? Because there is also a pushback.
    We are analytical powerhouses. Our climate scenarios are our flagship product. We have set up different long-term scenarios. For example, a current policy scenario or a fragmented world one, where climate policy is delayed, divergent and/or insufficient across the globe. Or a scenario where policy would bring us to a Paris-aligned world. We look at what those different climate scenarios mean in economic terms, for GDP, inflation, productivity, and so on.
    The fifth vintage of our long-term climate scenarios was published at the start of November last year. It told us that under the current policies scenario, global GDP will be 15 % lower globally in 2050 than it would be without climate change. This is a striking number, and in fact we have reason to believe that it doesn’t even show the full picture, because we do not yet have a full set of data. It does not reflect, for example, future sea level rises, or the kind of climate migration that we might see. When we have more data, we will get more insights, and the results might even change.
    What has the conversation been like at the plenary in the backdrop of the US exit and what is the assessment of the progress made so far?
    We’ve never seen such a strong commitment as we see here in India today. More than 100 people from over 60 countries came from all around the world to be here in person. Another 100 people participated virtually. We’ve never had so many senior level representatives from central banks and financial supervisors. We have more than 25 governors or deputy governors here in India at our annual meeting. 
    What we’ve reflected on today is how political headwinds, deregulation, impact our work. And our work stays the same, because we are non-political animals, and we stick to our mandates. With so many central banks from all over the world in our network, we all have different mandates. In emerging markets or developing countries, the mandates are often not as narrow as they are in, for example, Europe. So, we do have members with broader mandates. That allows them to do different things, such as promoting green finance or other financial sector development.
    Most central banks have initiated some sort of action on tackling climate change and its economic impact. What is your assessment of the progress and what more is needed?
    With 144 members from all over the globe, there are members at completely different stages, depending on when they started and how big their capacities are. Some members are very advanced, like the French, the Dutch, the UK, and there are those who have just started or are so small that they barely have capacity.
    What are the advanced central banks doing? They have started with climate stress testing in the banking sector. For example, in Europe, we have already done a few climate stress tests. In India, Brazil and many countries in Africa, you see that climate change strongly affects food prices. We also see, in some African countries for example, that energy prices are significantly affected by climate change. We cannot rely on past data or experiences; we need a forward-looking perspective. There’s a lot of uncertainty and non-linearity. So, we must work in terms of scenarios.
    When the NGFS was set up in December 2017, there were some central banks who thought, “oh my god, there’s climate change and we do not know at all whether this will affect our work, our mandates”. We thought, “this might be such a big threat that it’s better to collaborate, put together all the resources we have and to see what will come out”. This is why the NGFS was set up. Over the years, we have not only realized that climate change really matters to the economy but also confirmed that it affects our mandates.
    The whole idea of this network is that we share our knowledge amongst our members. This is the benefit of being a member of the NGFS. And we also produce public goods like the scenarios mentioned, which can be used by financial sector players and policymakers beyond the network.
    Different governments have different commitments to climate change and central banks have different mandates. Given that, how effective can this body be?
    Climate policy is not part of our mandate. What governments do is another thing. Of course, our analysis shows that if governments take less action on climate, it will have a huge impact on the economy, often also on inflation.
    You are right, central banks globally have a wide range of different tasks and mandates. But this is also the beauty of our network. 144 different organisations learn from each other. Many members – for example emerging markets – have a lot in common with each other. These countries often form groups among peers so that they can share experience and best practice.
    Any thinking on short-term scenario mapping?
    We will soon publish our short-term scenarios with a time horizon of three to five years, hopefully in the first half of the year. We think it is important to show what will happen within this time horizon.
    Not many care about 2050 and 2100. Not many of us work over this time horizon. If you are a CEO, your contract lasts 3‑5 years. If you’re a politician, you want to be re-elected within 3‑5 years. A scenario which tells you what might happen in 2050, of course, really matters for human beings. But, to tell the story to someone who thinks short term, you need also short-term scenarios.
    © The Times Group. All rigths reserved.

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Booming blueberry industry elevates SW China’s Yunnan to global supplier

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    While blueberry bushes in most parts of China are just beginning to bloom, early-ripening varieties in southwestern Yunnan Province are already being harvested.

    Farmers are currently working tirelessly to pick and pack the fresh berries, which swiftly make their way to markets across China and beyond.

    Originally native to North America, blueberries have found a second home in China.

    In 2024, the country’s blueberry cultivation area surpassed 73,000 hectares, yielding around 500,000 tonnes of berries, making China one of the fastest-growing blueberry producers in the world. Yunnan Province, with its ideal climate and extended growing season, has emerged as a leading production hub, contributing about 30 percent of the national output.

    Thanks to its unique geographical conditions, abundant sunlight, significant temperature variations between day and night, Yunnan offers an optimal environment for blueberry cultivation. “Yunnan is a natural habitat for blueberries,” said He Jiawei, head of the Institute of Alpine Economic and Botany, Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Science.

    The province is home to 46 wild blueberry species — more than half of China’s total, making it one of the best production areas worldwide.

    The city of Mengzi in Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture is home to over 2,300 hectares of greenhouse-grown blueberry cultivation space, generating over 3 billion yuan (about 418.48 million U.S. dollars) in revenue and improving incomes and livelihoods for more than 20,000 local farmers.

    Min Hongwei set up a 12-hectare blueberry plantation base in Mile, another city in Honghe, last year. “During peak harvest season, our workforce jumps to over 150 people, most of whom are local villagers. They can earn at least 150 yuan per day, and some make as much as 300 yuan,” he said.

    Yunnan’s blueberry boom has attracted over 100 domestic and international companies to Honghe, creating jobs for more than 100,000 people. According to the province’s agricultural department, Yunnan’s blueberry cultivation area reached 16,660 hectares in 2024, producing 171,000 tonnes with an estimated industry value of 17 billion yuan.

    While Chinese blueberries were initially grown for domestic consumption, they are now making their mark on the international stage.

    Chen Canling, sales manager of Anmei, an agriculture and technology company, said the company had successfully entered the Malaysian market this year.

    “To meet export standards, we’ve implemented precision management throughout the supply chain from harvesting techniques to packaging and international logistics,” Chen said. “Our goal is to export 300 tonnes of blueberries this year.”

    “Every four days, we airfreight two tonnes of blueberries to Dubai,” said Wang Rui, chairman of Fengji, an agricultural development company, adding that customers in Dubai can enjoy fresh blueberries from Yunnan in about 40 hours.

    China’s blueberry exports are rapidly gaining momentum. According to Kunming Customs, in 2024, the customs office in Mengzi supervised the export of 1,425 tonnes of blueberries, accounting for over half of China’s total blueberry exports and making it the country’s top blueberry exporter.

    “Since China first exported homegrown blueberries to Russia in 2020, they have reached more than 10 countries and regions, highlighting the immense market potential of Chinese blueberries,” said Li Yadong, a professor at Jilin Agricultural University. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Fall in admissions to American films in 2024

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Home Affairs

    The number of cinema admissions in Switzerland fell in 2024 compared with 2023 (‒2%). However, there were variations depending on language region (‒4% in German-speaking Switzerland, but +2% in French-speaking and Italian-speaking Switzerland) and production country (‒12% for American films and +11% for European films). These are some of the final results from the 2024 Swiss Film and Cinema Statistics compiled by the Federal Statistical Office (FSO).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: 4BIO Capital Portfolio Company Araris Biotech to be Acquired by Taiho Pharmaceutical for up to USD 1.14 billion

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release

    4BIO Capital Portfolio Company Araris Biotech to be Acquired by Taiho Pharmaceutical for up to USD 1.14 billion

    • Araris will receive USD 400 million upfront, with the potential for additional near-term and long-term milestone payments of up to USD 740 million
    • 4BIO Capital led the Series A in 2022, following its first investment in the Seed in 2020

    London, United Kingdom, 17 March 2025 – 4BIO Capital (“4BIO” or “the Group”), an international venture capital firm unlocking the treatments of the future by investing in advanced therapies and other emerging technologies, today announces that its portfolio company, Araris Biotech AG (“Araris” or “the Company”), a Swiss oncology biotech company developing next-generation antibody drug conjugates (ADCs) has entered into an agreement to be acquired by Taiho Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd (“Taiho Pharmaceutical”). The acquisition follows a research collaboration between Taiho Pharmaceutical and Araris signed in November 2023 and is expected to be completed in the first half of 2025.

    Under the terms of the agreement, Taiho Pharmaceutical will pay a USD 400 million upfront, with the potential for additional milestone payments of up to USD 740 million, and for a total amount of up to USD 1.14 billion.

    Araris has been an investment out of 4BIO Capital Fund II, and the 4BIO team is proud to have actively supported the fast development and acquisition since the initial investment in 2020. In early 2020, 4BIO Capital recognised the significant potential of next-generation ADCs, however came to the conclusion that linker technologies needed to be improved to take the field to the next level. The 4BIO team subsequently identified Araris as the best-in-class linker-payload ADC platform to address the shortcomings of current generation ADCs. The Company’s AraLinQ™ technology enables the attachment of multiple, synergistic cancer-fighting payloads to a single antibody in an efficient one-step process, whilst ensuring long-term stability and safety of the resulting ADC, as well as increased antitumour effect compared to conventional ADCs. 4BIO Capital supported the company in the development of AraLinQ™ and its proprietary pipeline, leading its Series A in 2022 and supporting the company through multiple large pharma partnerships both as an investor and from the Board with Managing Partner Dima Kuzmin as Chairman, and Brian McVeigh and Dr Therese Liechtenstein as Board Observers.

    Araris is advancing three products for the treatment of haematological and solid tumours developed using its unique AraLinQ™ technology, all of which are currently in the preclinical stage. These products are anticipated to enter into clinical trials between 2025 and 2026 and will benefit from Taiho Pharmaceutical’s clinical development expertise.

    Dr Dmitry (Dima) Kuzmin, Managing Partner at 4BIO Capital and Chairman of Araris, commented, “The success of Araris is a perfect example of the 4BIO Capital playbook. We identified the technological hurdle that needed to be overcome to empower an up-and-coming drug class, identified the best science and the people to solve it and, alongside Araris’ management team, supported the company to secure multiple pharma partnerships, develop its own pipeline and now become part of the Taiho group. This acquisition confirms Araris’ position as one of the most exciting ADC companies in the market and has the potential to return over two times the fund to 4BIO Ventures II investors, further validating our science-driven, high conviction seed investment strategy.”

    Dr Dragan Grabulovski, Chief Executive Officer and co-founder of Araris added, “We sincerely appreciate the support of Dima and the entire team at 4BIO in shaping our company, advancing our science, and helping us reach this important milestone. It’s the kind of investor that brings not only money to the table but also valuable strategic guidance, a network of industry connections, and a shared vision for transforming cancer treatment. Araris has developed a unique ADC technology that delivers different cancer-fighting drugs directly to tumours with high precision. This approach allows multiple treatment methods to work together at the same time while reducing harmful side effects. We are excited to join forces with Taiho Pharmaceutical whose deep expertise in oncology will be instrumental in accelerating the clinical development of our promising ADC candidates for both haematological and solid tumours.”

    Philippe Fauchet OBE, Venture Partner at 4BIO Capital added, “We are delighted to see a seed investment we made in Europe find a skilled partner in a pioneering Japanese pharma company and are very happy to have facilitated the closer partnership. This deal further validates our strategy of building strong bridges between the Japanese and European biotech and pharma companies, which we believe will bring significant benefits to both ecosystems.”

    Details of the acquisition can be found in the press release from Araris and Taiho Pharmaceutical here.

    – End –

    Contacts

    4BIO Capital +44 (0) 203 427 5500
    info@4biocapital.com
       
    ICR Healthcare
    Amber Fennell, Jonathan Edwards, Kris Lam    		 +44 (0)20 3709 5700
    4biocapital@icrhealthcare.com

    About 4BIO Capital

    4BIO Capital (“4BIO”) is an international venture capital firm focused on investing in advanced therapies, including genomic medicines and other emerging technologies, to unlock the treatments of the future. 4BIO’s objective is to invest in, support, and grow early-stage companies developing treatments in areas of high unmet medical need, with the ultimate goal of ensuring access to these potentially curative therapies for all patients. Specifically, it looks for viable, high-quality opportunities in cell and gene therapy, RNA-based therapy, targeted therapies, and the microbiome. The 4BIO team comprises leading advanced therapy scientists and experienced life science investors who have collectively published over 250 scientific articles in prestigious academic journals including Nature, The Lancet, Cell, and the New England Journal of Medicine. 4BIO has both an unrivalled network within the advanced therapy sector and a unique understanding of the criteria that define a successful investment opportunity in this space. For more information, connect with us on LinkedIn and Twitter @4biocapital and visit www.4biocapital.com.

    About Araris Biotech AG

    Araris Biotech is a leading independent company pioneering the future of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and redefining the entire paradigm of targeted cancer therapy and beyond. Araris’ vision is a world without chemotherapy and its proprietary conjugation and groundbreaking multi-payload technology represents a quantum leap forward in ADC design, enabling the transformation of any antibody into an ADC with the goal of better safety and efficacy. By enabling the attachment of multiple, synergistic cancer-fighting payloads to a single antibody in an efficient one-step process, Araris is creating a new generation of smart missiles that deliver the potency of combination chemotherapy in a targeted fashion in order to tackle the persistent challenges of cancer resistance. Araris’ investors include 4BIO Capital, b2venture, Pureos Bioventures, Redalpine, Schroders Capital, VI Partners, Wille AG, Institute for Follicular Lymphoma Innovation and Samsung Ventures.

    For more information about our science and pipeline, please visit https://www.ararisbiotech.com

    About Taiho Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

    Taiho Pharmaceutical, a subsidiary of Otsuka Holdings Co., Ltd. (https://www.otsuka.com/en/), is an R&D-driven specialty pharma focusing on the fields of oncology and immune-related diseases. Its corporate philosophy takes the form of a pledge: “We strive to improve human health and contribute to a society enriched by smiles.” In the field of oncology, in particular, Taiho Pharmaceutical is known as a leading company in Japan for developing innovative medicines for the treatment of cancer, a reputation that is rapidly expanding through their extensive global R&D efforts. In areas other than oncology, as well, the company creates and markets quality products that effectively treat medical conditions and can help improve people’s quality of life. Always putting customers first, Taiho Pharmaceutical also aims to offer consumer healthcare products that support people’s efforts to lead fulfilling and rewarding lives. For more information about Taiho Pharmaceutical, please visit https://www.taiho.co.jp/en/

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia and Hetzner enhance hosting infrastructure for scalable, automated, and sustainable services across Europe

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release
    Nokia and Hetzner enhance hosting infrastructure for scalable, automated, and sustainable services across Europe

    • Companies to future-proof data center and core network infrastructure to support growing digital demands
    • Deployment now live in Germany and Finland and will expand across Europe
    • Future-ready architecture supports 400G and 800G interconnectivity, equipping Hetzner’s network for long-term growth

    17 March 2025
    Espoo, Finland – Nokia has been selected by Hetzner, a leading European hosting provider, to upgrade its data center and core network infrastructure. With growing demand for high-performance hosting services, this deployment enables Hetzner to scale efficiently, improve automation, and maintain industry-leading uptime, ensuring seamless digital experiences for businesses and end users.

    By deploying Nokia’s carrier-grade routing solutions, Hetzner is optimizing its network with ultra-reliable, high-performance connectivity while reducing operational complexity. The deployment, now live in Germany and Finland, will expand across Europe to meet increasing digital infrastructure demands. Nokia’s energy-efficient routers, combined with advanced automation and real-time telemetry, provide Hetzner with the visibility and resilience needed to support next-generation workloads.

    “Through close collaboration with Nokia, we have been able to integrate new technology effectively into our system. This has ensured we remain flexible and agile whilst improving our data centers to meet our customer’s needs. Whether it is higher bandwidth, improved network availability, or optimized energy efficiency — we always find the best solutions by working with Nokia and further receive the responsive support we have grown to rely on,” said Martin Fritzsche, Head of Network at Hetzner.

    “Empowering one of Europe’s largest hosting providers with state-of-the-art reliability and performance is key to driving the next generation of digital services. With our leading routing technology, Hetzner gains the scalability, automation, and energy efficiency needed to meet growing demands while optimizing operational efficiency. This deployment shows our shared commitment to innovation, resilience, and sustainability in data center networking,” said Matthieu Bourguignon, Senior Vice President for Network Infrastructure Europe, Nokia.

    The solution includes Nokia 7750 SR-1x routers, designed for carrier-grade reliability, power efficiency, and scalability. Hetzner benefits from single-lambda 100G transceivers, enhancing density and energy efficiency while reducing infrastructure costs. Nokia’s gNMI-based telemetry provides real-time network visibility, allowing Hetzner to automate and optimize operations with minimal intervention. With a future-ready architecture supporting 400G and 800G interconnectivity, Hetzner’s network is equipped for long-term growth.

    This win highlights Nokia’s ability to deliver robust, scalable, and sustainable networking solutions that power the next generation of digital services across Europe.

    Multimedia, technical information and related news
    Product Page: Coherent Routing

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs, which is celebrating 100 years of innovation.

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    About Hetzner
    Hetzner is a German IT company and one of Europe’s largest and most trusted internet service providers, founded in 1997. It operates several thousand servers in state-of-the-art, energy-efficient data center parks in Nuremberg and Falkenstein (Germany) and Helsinki (Finland). Additionally, it has expanded its infrastructure to Singapore and the US.

    Hetzner is best known for its dedicated servers and virtualized server infrastructure, optimized for performance, reliability, and efficiency. It stands out through its high technological quality and strong customer focus. With competitive pricing and professional customer support, Hetzner is the ideal hosting partner for businesses and internet projects of all sizes. Thanks to its strong market presence and constant drive for innovation, Hetzner has taken on a leading role not only in Europe but also internationally.

    Media inquiries
    Nokia Press Office
    Email: Press.Services@nokia.com

    Follow us on social media
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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia strengthens Worldstream’s hosting security with advanced DDoS Protection in the Netherlands

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release
    Nokia strengthens Worldstream’s hosting security with advanced DDoS Protection in the Netherlands

    • Enterprise customers using hosting services will benefit from fast network-based mitigation of most complex and high-volume cyberattacks and AI-driven threats.
    • Real-time, automated, next-generation DDoS protection to keep businesses running and unaffected during an attack.
    • Enhanced network resilience with Nokia Deepfield Defender and 7750 SR routers.

    17 March 2025
    Espoo, Finland – Nokia today announced that Worldstream, a leading cloud infrastructure provider, will use Nokia’s network security technology to protect businesses in the Netherlands and globally against large-scale DDoS attacks. Nokia Deepfield Defender and 7750 SR routers have been deployed across Worldstream’s network to offer an eightfold increase in DDoS mitigation capacity. With this network security upgrade, Worldstream customers can now rely on fast network-based mitigation of even the most complex and high-volume cyberattacks and AI-driven threats.

    “Cybercrime is evolving, and with the rise of AI in particular, security solutions need to evolve faster than ever before. We see that for hosting providers, traditional DDoS mitigation methods are no longer sufficient. With the Nokia Deepfield solution, Worldstream is now equipped with high-capacity, network-based protection that reacts instantly, rapidly detecting and eliminating threats before they impact businesses,” commented Matthieu Bourguignon, Senior Vice President for Network Infrastructure, Europe at Nokia.

    Prior to the deployment, Worldstream was limited in its defense against large-scale carpet-bombing attacks – which target multiple IP addresses – that could disrupt entire customer networks. With Nokia Deepfield Defender and 7750 SR routers, Worldstream now provides real-time, automated, next-generation DDoS protection that scales with the network, ensuring that businesses stay unaffected and without costly traffic diversion or latency introduced by legacy protection.

    “Security has become just as critical as performance in hosting services. Businesses expect resilience, and they need to trust that their infrastructure won’t be taken down by a single attack. With Nokia DDoS technology, we’ve made a major leap in protection. Our customers now benefit from ultra-fast mitigation, ensuring that their digital services remain available no matter what’s thrown at them,” said Ruben van der Zwan, CEO of Worldstream.

    Nokia Deepfield Defender, combined with the 7750 SR routers, ensures that Worldstream’s hosting customers benefit from real-time threat detection and mitigation in seconds. The solution offers line-rate protection across all peering interfaces, eliminating restrictions associated with single-server DDoS mitigation. Ultra-fast DDoS also provides protection for all DDoS types, including complex TCP-based application floods and botnet and proxy-based attack types, defending several customers against large-scale attacks at once.

    Multimedia, technical information and related news
    Product Page: Nokia Deepfield Defender
    Product Page: Nokia 7750 Service Router

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs, which is celebrating 100 years of innovation.

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    About Worldstream
    Founded in 2006 by childhood friends who shared a passion for gaming, Worldstream has evolved into an international cloud infrastructure provider. Since its founding, its mission has been to keep basic infrastructure predictable and transparent.

    It offers affordable cloud infrastructure, with transparent and predictable pricing, to help IT business leaders confidently grow their IT maturity. Through its commitment to high-quality infrastructure, down-to-earth support, and straightforward pricing models, it empowers IT leaders with the ability to regain control over the security and costs of their digital workloads.

    Media inquiries
    Nokia Press Office
    Email: Press.Services@nokia.com

    Follow us on social media
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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: 12/2025・Trifork Group: Weekly report on share buyback

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company announcement no. 12 / 2025
    Schindellegi, Switzerland – 17 March 2025

    Trifork Group: Weekly report on share buyback

    On 28 Februay 2025, Trifork initiated a share buyback program in accordance with Regulation No. 596/2014 of the European Parliament and Council of 16 April 2014 (MAR) and Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052, (Safe Harbour regulation). The share buyback program runs from 4 March 2025 up to and including no later than 30 June 2025. The buyback program will not be active from 9 to 15 April 2025. For details, please see company announcement no. 7 of 28 February 2025.

    Under the share buyback program, Trifork will purchase shares for up to a total of DKK 14.92 million (approximately EUR 2 million).

    Prior to the launch of the share buyback, Trifork held 256,329 treasury shares, corresponding to 1.3% of the share capital.

    Under the program, the following transactions have been made:

    Date      Number of shares      Average purchase price (DKK)      Transaction value (DKK)
    Total beginning 8,540 81.66 697,337
    10 March 2025 1,468 79.71 117,014
    11 March 2025 2,280 79.62 181,534
    12 March 2025 2,300 79.88 183,724
    13 March 2025 2,300 79.95 183,885
    14 March 2025 2,300 80.80 185,840
    Accumulated 19,188 80.74 1,549,334

    Since the share buyback program was started on 4 March 2025, the total number of repurchased shares is 19,188 at a total amount of DKK 1,549,334.

    With the transactions stated above, Trifork holds a total of 275,517 treasury shares, corresponding to 1.4%.
    The total number of registered shares in Trifork is 19,744,899. Adjusted for treasury shares, the number of outstanding shares is 19,469,382.


    Investor and media contact
    Frederik Svanholm, Group Investment Director & Head of Investor Relations
    frsv@trifork.com, +41 79 357 73 17


    About Trifork
    Trifork is a pioneering global technology partner, empowering enterprise and public sector customers with innovative solutions. With 1,229 professionals across 73 business units in 16 countries, Trifork delivers expertise in inspiring, building, and running advanced software solutions across diverse sectors, including public administration, healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, energy, financial services, retail, and real estate. Trifork Labs, the Group’s R&D hub, drives innovation by investing in and developing synergistic and high-potential technology companies. Trifork Group AG is a publicly listed company on Nasdaq Copenhagen. Learn more at trifork.com.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Non-compete agreements and other restraints can end up hurting Australian workers – and all of us pay the price

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paula McDonald, Professor of Work and Organisation, Queensland University of Technology

    Twinsterphoto/Shutterstock

    Australian workers have to overcome some significant barriers in navigating their careers.

    Some may lack the training or work experience opportunities needed to make themselves stand out and take the next step. Others may be extensively qualified, but face limited new job or promotional opportunities relevant to their skill set.

    But there’s another common barrier that’s often overlooked: post-employment restraints. Among the most well-known are non-compete clauses, but these aren’t the only kind.

    These tools are designed to protect employer interests. But their widespread use has far-reaching consequences for job mobility, wages and innovation across Australia.

    Our new research, which was commissioned by the Department of Treasury and conducted by researchers at Queensland University of Technology, set out to examine how these agreements are impacting Australia’s workforce.

    We zeroed in on two very different occupational groups – hairdressers and IT professionals. Our findings point to an urgent need for regulatory reform in Australia. But we also offer solutions that could better balance business needs with worker rights.

    What are post-employment restraints?

    Post-employment restraints are contractual clauses that restrict what workers can do after leaving their jobs.

    One common type are non-compete clauses, which prevent workers from joining competitors or starting their own businesses, usually (though not always) in the same industry.

    Signing a non-compete agreement often prevents you from working for a competing business.
    G.Tbov/Shutterstock

    There are also non-solicitation agreements, which restrict them from approaching former clients or colleagues.

    And non-disclosure obligations can limit the use of confidential information concerning the employer’s business – even when created by workers themselves.

    Businesses argue these clauses help them safeguard their proprietary interests, such as hard-won client relationships, trade secrets and intellectual property.

    However, their application is not limited to high-level executives or sensitive roles. Such restraints are more common than many realise.

    Data cited in our report from businesses with 200 employees or less confirms previous Australian research: at least one in five businesses use non-compete, non-solicitation of clients and non-solicitation of co-workers clauses. The number is even higher if non-disclosure agreements are included in the list of restraints.

    Overall, half of all Australian workers are reported to have post-employment restraints – including many in low-paid jobs.

    As former Fair Work Commission President Iain Ross has pointed out, this raises critical questions about fairness and the broader impacts on the labour market.

    A tangle of restrictions in hairdressing

    Hairdressing is a predominantly female, low-wage profession. Our interviews with hairdressers reveal the outsized impact that post-employment restraints can have on vulnerable workers.

    Restrictions typically include bans on working within a certain radius of their former salon, taking clients to a new employer, or starting their own business.

    Many interviewees only learned about these restrictions after accepting a position or deciding to leave. Some reported being barred from telling clients of their departure or facing demands to pay penalties if clients followed them to a new salon.

    The personal relationships hairdressers form with their clients are central to their work and professional identity. However, these relationships often become battlegrounds when employment ends.

    Hairdressers explained the difficulties that often arose from becoming “friends” with clients. As one put it:

    As soon as you leave, it’s almost harder than a breakup.

    Client relationships are a prized asset in the hairdressing industry.
    MarijaBazarova/Shutterstock

    Chained to the chair

    Financially, these restrictions exacerbate the already precarious conditions in the hairdressing industry.

    With limited opportunities for wage growth, many hairdressers establish their own businesses or rent chairs in salons for greater independence.

    Yet, non-compete clauses often delay these plans. Hairdressers are then forced to accept lower-paying positions or leave the profession entirely.

    Social media has added a whole new layer of complexity. Hairdressers are often required to use their personal social media accounts to promote their employer’s business, only to have their posts deleted or accounts locked when they leave. This can erase years of professional work and connections.

    Many young hairdressers we spoke to expressed particular frustration that their social media presence, cultivated under the salon’s brand, could not be carried forward to new roles.

    Holding back innovation

    Our study found while hairdressers face restrictions on their mobility and client relationships, IT professionals face obstacles that limit their ability to innovate.

    IT professionals often develop new technologies, software or processes, sometimes in their own time. However, contracts often claim ownership of these innovations for the employer.

    We found non-disclosure agreements, non-compete clauses and intellectual property ownership terms are all common in the industry.

    This environment discourages entrepreneurial ventures and independent projects, even as the industry demands agility and creativity.

    As one participant explained:

    It’s made me pause multiple times, made me think about not developing a code that you’re interested in just for your own development.

    Professionals reported feeling “locked in” to roles, unable to pursue side projects or start their own businesses without risking legal action.

    Non-compete clauses in IT contracts also restrict job mobility when professionals cannot join competitor companies or use their expertise in new roles.

    This impacts not only individual workers but also the broader industry, as firms struggle to recruit skilled talent.

    Paradoxically, some employers actively poach talent from competitors while enforcing non-compete clauses against their own staff.

    Intellectual property restrictions can discourage IT professionals from working on their own innovative projects.
    Jacob Lund/Shutterstock

    The way forward

    By limiting job mobility, post-employment restraints contribute to wage stagnation and reduce workers’ bargaining power.

    Australia’s regulatory approach to this issue lags behind other countries. There are no formal limits on the length or breadth of restraints, just a vague test of “reasonableness” that makes it hard to know what is permissible, without costly litigation.

    In the United States, California has banned non-compete clauses outright, fostering a thriving tech industry. In Europe, companies like Germany impose strict limits on the duration of restraints and require employers to compensate workers during the restricted period.

    These models demonstrate that balancing employer interests with worker rights is possible and can yield positive outcomes.

    One option for policymakers in Australia would be to impose new restrictions on the scope and duration of restraints to ensure they serve legitimate business interests without unduly restricting workers.

    Employers could be required to provide plain-language explanations around these restrictions at the time of hiring and compensate workers for the duration of any restraint, as seen in some European models.

    Post-employment restraints are a double-edged sword. While they may protect legitimate business interests, their overuse undermines job mobility, innovation and worker wellbeing.



    Read more:
    Would a mandatory five-day working week solve construction’s work-life balance woes?

    Paula McDonald receives funding from the Australian Research Council and the Commonwealth Department of Treasury.

    Andrew Stewart receives funding from Commonwealth Department of Treasury.

    – ref. Non-compete agreements and other restraints can end up hurting Australian workers – and all of us pay the price – https://theconversation.com/non-compete-agreements-and-other-restraints-can-end-up-hurting-australian-workers-and-all-of-us-pay-the-price-247449

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Coalition promises Australian version of United States’ RICO act to target CFMEU

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

    Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has announced a Coalition government would introduce legislation, based on an American law used to pursue the Mafia, to enable police to target the “kingpins” of criminal organisations such as outlaw motorcycle gangs.

    This follows new allegations by Nine newspapers and 60 Minutes about the rogue union the CFMEU. The allegations include “the employment of ‘baseball-twirling violent people’ on the [Victorian government’s] Big Build, where women have been bashed and then black-banned after they complained”.

    The Nine investigation further alleged that “gangland and bikie-linked figures are receiving large payments from companies on publicly funded projects looking to gain favour with union insiders, leaving state and federal taxpayers in effect underwriting payments to the underworld.”

    The Coalition said Monday the proposed new offences would “be based on the highly effective Mafia takedown laws in the US”. Dutton and shadow ministers Michaelia Cash and James Paterson said in a statement:

    By targeting groups that engage in a pattern of criminal behaviour, these offences will put police in the position where they can target the criminal organisation and its leadership.

    This  means the bosses and kingpins of groups such as outlaw motorcycle gangs can be jailed even if they distance themselves from the crimes their organisations commit.

    Dutton described the CFMEU as “a modern-day mafia operation”. He added:

    The culture of criminality and corruption is so entrenched, and it will never change – especially under the weak and incompetent Albanese Labor government.

    Dutton claimed the CFMEU affair was the “biggest corruption scandal in our country’s history”.

    The opposition said it would also set up an Australian Federal Police-led taskforce that would bring together federal law enforcement agencies and state and territory police forces to target criminal behaviour.

    After the latest revelation surfaced in Nine media at the weekend, Workplace Relations Minister Murray Watt said on social media he would refer the allegations to the police.

    On Monday, Watt condemned Dutton’s proposal for a new law.

    We don’t need to import an American racketeering law – we already have our own laws to go after ‘kingpins’, such as section 390.6 of the Criminal Code, which already deals with directing criminal organisation.

    He also condemned the opposition’s long-standing policy to deregister the union, saying this would mean there was no regulation.

    Peter Dutton’s reckless desire for a headline puts at risk the investigations and crime-fighting that the Coalition never bothered to commence in their decade in office.

    Victoria police is undertaking an investigation into the fresh allegations.

    The US Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organisations (RICO) Act, dating from 1970, enables prosecutors to take down whole mob-related organisations rather than having only the power to deal with figures individually. It is intended to deal with mob bosses who could not be directly connected to the crimes.

    Its use, however, has extended well beyond mob prosecutions to a range of targets, from street gangs to politicians.

    US President Donald Trump was charged under Georgia’s RICO act for “knowingly and willfully joining a conspiracy to unlawfully change the outcome of the [2020] election”.

    The construction and general division of the CFMEU has been in administration since last August.

    The union’s national secretary, Zach Smith, said on Facebook: “We cannot  let our union or our industry be a safe haven for criminality of corruption”.

    He also said that “violence against women is completely unacceptable to our union”.

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

    – ref. Coalition promises Australian version of United States’ RICO act to target CFMEU – https://theconversation.com/coalition-promises-australian-version-of-united-states-rico-act-to-target-cfmeu-252172

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Many of history’s deadliest building fires have been in nightclubs. Here’s why they’re so dangerous

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Milad Haghani, Associate Professor & Principal Fellow in Urban Risk & Resilience, The University of Melbourne

    A fire at a nightclub in North Macedonia has killed at least 59 people and injured more than 150. The blaze broke out at the Pulse nightclub in Kočani, where around 500 people were attending a concert.

    Witnesses reported that pyrotechnics used during the performance ignited the ceiling, causing flames to spread rapidly.

    Authorities have arrested 20 people so far, including the club’s manager. Investigations continue. The North Macedonian government has declared a seven-day mourning period.

    While building fires are not limited to nightclubs, many of the most devastating building fires in history have happened in nightclubs around the world. So why are nightclubs such a risky place for deadly fires?

    A long history of nightclub fires

    A look at past nightclub fires shows just how common and deadly they’ve been in the past 100 years. We identified at least 24 nightclub fires where ten or more people died since 1940.

    Collectively, these 24 incidents account for at least 2,800 deaths, with nearly 1,300 in the 21st century alone.

    The Cocoanut Grove fire (Boston, 1942) remains the deadliest on record, killing 492 people. The club’s flammable decorations and locked exits turned what should have been an ordinary night out into one of the worst fire disasters in history.

    In Argentina, the República Cromañón fire killed 194 people in 2004, caused by pyrotechnics igniting flammable materials inside the club.

    The Kiss nightclub fire in Brazil in 2013 was even deadlier, claiming 242 lives.

    More recently, Thailand’s Mountain B nightclub fire killed 23 people in 2022.

    And in 2023, 13 people died in a fire at the Fonda Milagros nightclub in Spain.

    Now, North Macedonia’s Pulse nightclub joins this long list.

    Why are nightclubs so risky for fires?

    A review of past nightclub fires we’ve collated in our database reveals common patterns. Two key factors have contributed to the frequency and severity of these fire disasters.

    1. Pyrotechnics, fireworks and flammable materials

    One of the most common causes of nightclub fires has been the use of pyrotechnics in enclosed spaces. Pyrotechnics are controlled chemical reactions designed to produce flames, smoke, or light effects.

    They have been involved in at least six of the deadliest nightclub fires, including the recent Pulse nightclub fire in North Macedonia, as well as The Station (United States, 2003), Kiss (Brazil, 2013), Colectiv (Romania, 2015), Lame Horse (Russia, 2009) and República Cromañón (Argentina, 2004).

    When used indoors, pyrotechnics can easily ignite flammable ceiling materials, acoustic foam, or decorations.

    In some cases, fireworks – which are different from stage pyrotechnics and sometimes illegally used indoors – have played a role. The Lame Horse nightclub fire, which killed 156 people in Russia in 2009, was caused by a spark from fireworks igniting a low ceiling covered in flammable plastic decorations.

    Even when fires don’t start from pyrotechnics or fireworks, the materials used in nightclub interiors can rapidly turn a small fire into a major disaster.

    Foam insulation, wooden panelling, plastic decorations and carpeted walls have all been key factors in past nightclub fires. In Cocoanut Grove (Boston, 1942), artificial palm trees and other flammable decorations accelerated the blaze.

    2. Overcrowding and blocked or insufficient exits

    Evacuation failures have been a factor in nearly every major nightclub fire.

    In some instances, crowds may not immediately recognise the severity of the situation, especially if they mistake alarms for false alarms or special effects (for example, smoke machines, loud music).

    Further, patrons could be intoxicated due alcohol or other drugs. Intoxication combined with potential disorientation due to dim lighting can further reduce judgement during an evacuation.

    Clearly, the best way to protect patrons is to prevent a fire from breaking out in the first place. But in settings where fire risks are inherently high, the ability to evacuate people swiftly is crucial.

    Nightclubs, however, have a poor track record when it comes to evacuation safety measures.

    Nightclubs are among the most crowded indoor spaces. While crowd density is part of a nightclub’s design and atmosphere, overcrowding beyond legal capacity is common.

    A crowd that has gradually gathered over several hours must suddenly evacuate in seconds or minutes to survive a fire. This is made more difficult by narrow hallways and limited exits, which quickly become bottlenecks when hundreds of people attempt to escape at once.

    What’s more, not all exits are always accessible during a fire. In several past nightclub disasters, locked or obstructed emergency exits have significantly worsened the death toll.

    Minimising the risks

    Nightclubs are uniquely vulnerable to fires due to a combination of structural risks, unsafe materials, overcrowding and regulatory failures.

    While human behaviour plays a role in how fires unfold in confined spaces such as nightclubs, people should be able to go for a night out and expect to come home safely.

    Regulatory oversight must ensure strict compliance with fire codes. Venues should have fire suppression systems (such as sprinklers, fire extinguishers and smoke detectors) to control or contain fires before they spread, and adequate exits.

    Nightclubs should ban indoor pyrotechnics and fireworks, as history has repeatedly shown their deadly consequences.

    Capacity limits must be enforced, and emergency exits should always be accessible.

    Australia has strict fire safety regulations for nightclubs, with venues required to have fire suppression systems, emergency exits and trained staff to manage fire risks.

    Public awareness is also key. Patrons need to understand the real risk of fires in nightclubs, and be prepared to evacuate swiftly but calmly if danger arises.

    Ruggiero Lovreglio receives funding from Royal Society Te Apārangi (NZ) and National Institute of Standards and Technology (USA).

    Milad Haghani 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. Many of history’s deadliest building fires have been in nightclubs. Here’s why they’re so dangerous – https://theconversation.com/many-of-historys-deadliest-building-fires-have-been-in-nightclubs-heres-why-theyre-so-dangerous-252372

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Research breakthrough offers hope for Canola growers

    Source: New South Wales Department of Primary Industries

    17 Mar 2025

    Researchers from the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) have opened the door to enhancing canola production in challenging growing environments, after identifying a key gene that helps protect plants from manganese toxicity in acidic soils.

    Soil acidity is a significant challenge for crop production in Australia, and crops like canola are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of acidic soils which can limit growth and reduce yields.

    Dr Harsh Raman, Senior Principal Research Scientist at NSW DPIRD, said the the discovery is the result of five years of dedicated research by an international team of scientists, with NSW DPIRD leading the effort.

    “Soil acidity is a global issue, severely limiting crop production and affecting a huge 13.7 million hectares in NSW alone,” Dr Raman said.

    “After conducting a range of experiments in controlled field conditions, NSW DPIRD has successfully cloned the specific gene responsible for manganese tolerance in acidic soils.”

    “We have also uncovered new insights into the genetic networks that influence this trait, which will enable the research team to develop practical methods for selecting canola plants with manganese tolerance based on morphological traits and molecular markers.”

    According to Dr Raman, the discovery could lead to higher productivity and improved profitability for Canola growers.

    “By understanding how canola plants cope with excessive manganese in acidic soils, researchers and crop breeding companies can now work towards developing new crop varieties that are more resilient to thestresses of manganese toxicity. ,” Dr Raman said.

    While manganese is an essential nutrient for plant growth, excessive amounts in acidic soils (pH <5) can lead to severe toxicity which can stunt plant growth and reduce crop yields. This is most common in waterlogged soils or those with poor drainage, particularly under high-temperature conditions.

    Dr. Raman said that while researchers still recommend a regular application of lime to manage high-acidity soils, manganese tolerance is a valuable enhancement trait for canola varieties by allowing growers to get about their business without having to wait for the lime to ameliorate into the soil.

    “Thanks to this research, canola farmers will no longer exclusively need to invest significant time and money into lime applications and wait for amelioration to proceed before they can grow high yield crops.

    Now, by unlocking the secret to cultivating varieties that are tolerant to acidic soils, growers can grow high yielding canola whilst applying lime to improve their soils long term PH, increasing productivity and profitability.”

    “As farmers face increasing challenges  such as soil degradation, this research provides a promising new tool to enhance crop resilience and secure long-term food production,” Dr Raman said.

    The project was supported by the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Grains Research and Development Cooperation, Oil Crops Research Institute China, Monash University, ARC Training Centre for Future Crops Development at Australian National University and Wagga Wagga, and INRA France.

    The research findings were recently published in Plant Cell and Environment, available at (Genome‐Wide Association Study Elucidates the Genetic Architecture of Manganese Tolerance in Brassica napus – Raman – Plant, Cell & Environment – Wiley Online Library).

    Media contact: pi.media@dpird.nsw.gov.au

    Vision pack available at https://tinyurl.com/5n7f56ca

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Priority News – The Book of Disappearance – Longlisted for the International Booker Prize 2025

    Source: Text Publishing (Melbourne, Australia)


    The Book of Disappearance, by Ibtisam Azem, translated by Sinan Antoon has been Longlisted for the International Booker Prize, 2025.

    This critically acclaimed Arabic novel invites English readers into the complex lives of Palestinians living in Israel.

    What if all the Palestinians in Israel simply disappeared one day?

    The Book of Disappearance is set in contemporary Tel Aviv. Alaa is a young Palestinian man who is haunted by his grandmother’s memories of being displaced from Jaffa and becoming a refugee in her homeland. His Jewish neighbour and friend, Ariel, is a journalist who believes in Israel’s national myth but is critical of the military occupation of the West Bank and Gaza. He begins to search for clues about why Alaa and the Palestinians have vanished. Their stories, and the stories of the ordinary people of Jaffa and Tel Aviv, reveal the fissures at the heart of the Palestinian question.

    Ibtisan Azem’s spare and evocative novel is an unforgettable glimpse into contemporary Palestine as it grapples with both the memory of loss and the loss of memory.

    Ibtisam Azem is a Palestinian novelist, short story writer, and journalist, based in New York. She was born and raised in Taybeh, near Jaffa, the city from which her mother and maternal grandparents were internally displaced in the 1948 Nakba. She lived in Jerusalem before moving to Germany and later to the US. Azem has published two novels in Arabic: The Sleep Thief (2011) and The Book of Disappearance (2014). Her first short story collection, City of Strangers, is forthcoming in Arabic in the summer of 2025.
     
    Sinan Antoon is an Iraqi poet, novelist, translator, and scholar. He holds degrees from Baghdad and Harvard and has published two collections of poetry and five novels in Arabic. Antoon’s writings in English have appeared in the New York Times, the Guardian and the Nation, among others. Antoon returned to his native Baghdad in 2003 to co-direct About Baghdad, a documentary about the lives of Iraqis in a post-Saddam-occupied Iraq. He is an associate professor of Arabic literature at New York University.
     
    Praise for Ibtisam Azem:

    • ‘Brilliantly conceived and searingly executed.’ Claire Messud 
    • ‘In this immensely readable novel, Ms Azem does not resolve for us the calamity of Palestine’s occupation by Israel. But stylishly and with jeweled virtuosity she makes us understand that acts of great and human imagination will be required, and with this potent book points where and how we must all go.’ Richard Ford
    • ‘Speculative and haunting, this is an exceptional exercise in memory-making and psycho-geography.’ The International Booker Prize 2025 Judges
    • ‘Seductively bold…This rich, potent novel reminds us that there are no easy answers.’ Guardian.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Trump is surveying Australian academics about gender diversity and China – what does this mean for unis and their research?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Brendan Walker-Munro, Senior Lecturer (Law), Southern Cross University

    Shortly after taking office, US President Donald Trump issued executive orders banning federal funding on so-called “woke” research.

    This is part of his broader ban on all diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies, grants and programs in the US government.

    These orders are massive in scope, impacting studies as varied as stroke recovery, computing and ancient languages.

    The impact in the United States so far has been dramatic. Some universities are already cutting student admissions and looking at ways to shed academic staff and researchers.

    Now the ban has impacted Australian researchers who have links to US government-funded projects. The Trump Administration is asking for information on how their research fits in with US foreign and domestic policy.

    What has happened?

    The US government has sent a 36-point questionnaire to some Australian researchers who are working on joint projects with US colleagues.

    ABC Radio National reports at least eight Australian universities are involved. Their research areas include foreign aid, medicine, vaccines and defence. The New York Times reports a similar document has also been sent to other overseas organisations with US funding links.

    The questions are wide-ranging and cover academics’ links to China as well as their projects’ focus on topics such as diversity, inclusion and gender identity, as well as climate change.

    Some of the specific questions include:

    Can you confirm that your organisation has not received ANY funding from PRC People’s Republic of China, Russia, Cuba or Iran?

    Can you confirm that this is no DEI [diversity, equity and inclusion] project or DEI elements of the project? [sic]

    Does this project take appropriate measures to protect women and to defend against gender ideology as defined in the below Executive Order?

    Can you confirm this is not a climate or “environmental justice” project or include such elements?

    The survey also covers issues such as secure borders with Mexico, ending government waste, terrorism, the war on opioids, and “eradicating anti-Christian bias”.

    Concern and anger

    In response, the Group of Eight (which represents Australia’s top research universities) and Australian Academy of Science have separately raised concerns with the Australian government about the survey and its impact on Australian research.

    The Group of Eight says the US has already suspended or terminated research grants with six of its eight member universities.

    The National Tertiary Education Union also labelled the survey “blatant foreign interference”.

    A spokesperson for Education Minister Jason Clare says Australia is
    “engaging with the US government to understand what these measures mean for future funding and collaboration”.

    Are Trump’s orders legal?

    Trump’s executive orders are currently the subject of numerous lawsuits in the US. Plaintiffs say Trump’s orders violate the First and Fifth Amendments – those dealing with protection of free speech, equal protection and “due process of law” when depriving a citizen of property.

    Whether Trump’s orders are legal or not is a tricky question, and will likely come down the judges hearing each case.

    In the meantime, US government agencies are withholding funding anyway. Reports also suggests Trump has instructed his administration to ignore court orders – hardly surprising, given Trump’s history of contempt of US courts.

    What does this mean for Australia?

    US involvement in Australian research is significant. According to the Academy of Science, US government research funding involving Australian research organisations was $A386 million in 2024.

    It is arguable Trump’s orders infringe Australian sovereignty. But the US has always had the capacity to interfere in Australian university research – it just hasn’t actually done it until now.

    Research contracts signed between universities and funding bodies can contain all kinds of requirements, so US law can end up applying to Australian researchers. When the AUKUS deal was announced in 2021, a huge question was how universities would comply with notoriously harsh US export control laws.

    The survey indicates it was issued by the US Office of Management and Budget and appears to be supported by the US CHIPS and Science Act (which authorises certain research investments) and National Science Foundation policies. So, while Australian researchers could potentially ignore these questionnaires, that would legally give a US funding body grounds to cancel the funding contract.

    Our foreign interference laws also weren’t designed for situations like this. Even if they did, Trump is the current head of the US government, and is likely to be immune from prosecution

    Statutory tests for foreign interference – including criteria that such acts are covert, and/or involve threats of harm – simply don’t apply to a US president like Trump.

    So legally, it doesn’t look like there is much Australia can do about Trump’s orders.

    What can Australia do?

    Some newly unemployed researchers are now poised to leave the US, taking their research with them. This poses a potential security risk, with countries such as China and Russia both keen to capitalise on Trump’s decisions.

    But other nations are also aware of the possibilities. The European Union has already offered displaced US scientists a more “sympathetic place to work”. South Korea and Canada are also marketing themselves as attractive options. Australia could follow suit.

    The federal government is currently doing a strategic review of Australia’s research and development system. This could make diversifying our research partners a national priority.

    This could include revisiting a 2023 decision, not to join Horizon Europe – the European Union’s key research fund.

    Either way, given such radical changes in the US, Australia needs to seriously reconsider how it is funding and structuring research.

    Brendan Walker-Munro has consulted for the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI) and the Independent National Security Legislation Monitor, and is also an Adjunct Expert Associate of the National Security College. He has received funding from the Social Cyber Institute and Active Cyber Defence Alliance.

    – ref. Trump is surveying Australian academics about gender diversity and China – what does this mean for unis and their research? – https://theconversation.com/trump-is-surveying-australian-academics-about-gender-diversity-and-china-what-does-this-mean-for-unis-and-their-research-252282

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Losing pounds goes viral amid China’s wellness wave

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Weight control in China was once a solitary battle. Now, the government is offering a helping hand.
    At a recent news conference, Lei Haichao, head of the National Health Commission (NHC), announced plans to establish more weight management clinics at medical and health facilities, helping people shed pounds safely and pivot to healthier lifestyles.
    The announcement, made on the sidelines of the annual gathering of national lawmakers in Beijing — where the year’s priorities and goals are set — quickly caught fire online. Social media platforms like Weibo and rednote buzzed with reactions to the news.
    The 2025 government work report, green-lit by lawmakers on March 11, reaffirmed China’s commitment to a health-first strategy in its medical and health system — a clear departure from the traditional emphasis on disease treatment.
    The public didn’t hold back on the fun. A cheeky hashtag, “The country’s calling you to drop those pounds,” took off, along with a flood of witty cartoons from netizens that lit up the internet.
    Wang Youfa, head of the Global Health Institute at Xi’an Jiaotong University, saw this as a sign of growing public awareness about the toll of obesity.
    “It mirrors an alignment of scientific research, government action, and public engagement,” he said, noting this synergy indicates a vibrant wellness boom unfolding across the country.
    For a nation that had long struggled to feed its vast population, obesity barely registered until the late 1970s, when reform and opening-up ignited an economic boom, as well as a swelling national appetite.
    Today, with more than 1.4 billion people, China faces a growing obesity challenge. The NHC reported that over half of adults are overweight or obese. It warned that if left unchecked, the rate could climb to 70.5 percent by 2030.
    An estimate once projected that the economic burden attributed to overweight and obesity would account for 21.5 percent of the country’s total medical expenses by that time.
    In response, authorities launched a nationwide campaign in June 2024 to foster a supportive environment for weight control within three years. Obesity clinics are a key component of these efforts.

    Participants compete during the 2025 Chongqing Marathon in southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality, March 2, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Professional aid
    Weighing 100 kilograms, a Beijing resident surnamed Chen became one of the first to benefit from the new weight management clinic at Peking Union Medical College Hospital.
    On Wednesday, the 104-year-old institution unveiled its joint clinic, staffed by experts in clinical nutrition, endocrinology, and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).
    Greeted by clinical nutrition specialist Chen Wei, Chen learned she faced not only obesity but also diabetes and high blood pressure. Chen Wei brought in endocrinology and TCM specialists, and the trio crafted a treatment plan blending TCM medications, acupuncture and Metformin, along with a personalized health management strategy.
    Highlighting the prominence of traditional medicine in this approach, Wang said that practices such as acupuncture, massage, Qigong and medicinal diets have given China a distinct edge in tackling obesity.
    At Suzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine in east China’s Jiangsu Province, physician Jiang Yawen has already treated over 100 patients with acupuncture for obesity just two weeks into March.
    From the perspective of TCM, obesity is linked to the functioning of the liver, spleen and kidneys, said Jiang. Acupuncture can help by enhancing the function of these organs, curbing appetite, and improving nutrient absorption in the stomach and intestines, she added.
    Jiang has even taken these techniques abroad. As part of a Chinese medical team sent to Malta from 2020 to 2021, she brought her therapy to the Mediterranean country, where it helped relieve locals of obesity and was warmly embraced.
    While weight control clinics offer professional services, they carry the risk of over-treatment and unintended health or financial consequences, Wang cautioned. “We need to put in place relevant research, assessment, oversight and regulation.”

    1  2  >  

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Luxon meets Modi: why a ‘good’ NZ-India trade deal is preferable to a ‘perfect’ one

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Chris Ogden, Associate Professor in Global Studies, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

    Some have said Christopher Luxon’s pledge to get a free trade deal between New Zealand and India over the line in his first term as prime minister was overly optimistic. But not all trade deals are the same, and Luxon may yet get to claim bragging rights.

    Already he is managing expectations, saying a “good” deal will be better than waiting a long time for a “perfect” one. And with formal negotiations confirmed not long after Luxon touched down in New Delhi, we can perhaps expect genuine movement.

    At the same time, India’s negotiating style is notoriously rigid, with its bilateral investment treaty model having proved a stumbling block to deals with many other nations or blocs, including the United Kingdom and European Union.

    New Zealand first held formal negotiations with India over a decade ago. But talks derailed in 2015 over the inclusion of dairy products in any agreement. We can be fairly sure this will be the compromise Luxon’s government is ready to make now.

    One model might be Australia’s Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement, which leaves out dairy, too. And New Zealand was able to sign a free trade deal with China in 2008 that excluded diary, with those restrictions removed in a 2022 upgrade.

    Beyond the economic implications, of course, lie domestic political calculations. Luxon needs a win to counter flatlining poll numbers and speculation about his leadership future. Good news in India offers just that.

    Playing the Indo-Pacific card

    Using diplomatic language that plays up New Zealand being part of the Indo-Pacific region – rather than the traditional Western alliance – will be essential.

    New Zealand – despite its relatively small size – is still a significant regional player, with the Indo-Pacific’s fourth highest GDP per capita.

    In the context of an imminent “Asian Century”, and the region becoming a crucial zone for economic and military power, New Zealand also provides a strategic pathway into the Pacific, where India is becoming increasingly involved.

    All of this will influence Luxon’s keynote address today at the 10th Raisina Dialogue, India’s flagship multilateral conference on global politics and economics. He is the first leader not governing a European country to make such a speech, and is also the chief guest at the dialogue.

    Luxon is already on the record as saying New Zealand and India are “very aligned” on Indo-Pacific security and concerns over Chinese regional influence, with scope for more joint defence exercises. This linkage between security and trade mirrors Wellington’s recent relations with Beijing, which have become increasingly difficult to navigate.

    Solid foundations

    But there is a long way to go. In 2024, India-New Zealand trade was worth a combined NZ$3.14 billion – a fraction of the $208.46 billion generated by trade with China in the same year.

    Nevertheless, Luxon and his ministers have made undeniable progress. His “recalibration of a relationship that has long been neglected” bore fruit in October last year when he met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the ASEAN summit, and the countries announced their intention to take the relationship to “greater heights”.

    The previous Labour government helped set the scene with a succession of high-level diplomatic visits and parliamentary exchanges. In 2023, the Indian government described relations with New Zealand as having “an upward trajectory”.

    And there are clearly good foundations to build on – especially the 292,000 people of Indian ethnicity in New Zealand, who contribute US$10 billion to the New Zealand economy.

    Great expectations

    Trade is ripe for expansion, too. New Zealand primarily exports wool, iron and steel, aluminium, fruits and nuts, wood pulp and recovered paper, and imports Indian pharmaceuticals, machinery, precious metals and stones, textiles, vehicles and clothing.

    There’s potential to grow trade with India in tourism (especially attractive to India’s growing middle class), and collaboration on space technology, renewable energy and agritech.

    There were 8,000 Indian students in New Zealand last year, a number that may well grow given a relative drop in student numbers from China. With the US and UK becoming more hostile to immigration, New Zealand can offer a relatively safe and tolerant alternative.

    In many ways, India is the new China. In 2023, India’s GDP was US$14.54 trillion, making it the world’s fourth largest economy. New Delhi is on the cusp of becoming a great power, and is being courted by all countries, big and small.

    As such, while Luxon has momentum on a trade deal, he is also part of a long queue. Given the relative power imbalance between the two countries, the weight of expectation sits squarely on his shoulders.

    Chris Ogden is a Senior Research Fellow with The Foreign Policy Centre, London.

    – ref. Luxon meets Modi: why a ‘good’ NZ-India trade deal is preferable to a ‘perfect’ one – https://theconversation.com/luxon-meets-modi-why-a-good-nz-india-trade-deal-is-preferable-to-a-perfect-one-252036

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Shanghai sees record single-day arrival of foreign tourists via cruise ships

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal welcomed a record number of foreign tourists on Sunday, as two large international cruise ships docked at the port.

    The ships, AIDAstella of AIDA Cruises and Spectrum of the Seas belonging to Royal Caribbean International, brought nearly 4,800 foreign tourists to the east China metropolis, marking the highest single-day arrival of international visitors since this Shanghai terminal opened in 2011.

    AIDAstella made its maiden call at the terminal on Sunday. Operated by AIDA Cruises, which primarily serves European markets, the ship is carrying approximately 2,200 foreign tourists, mainly from Germany and Poland, on a 14-day voyage that starts from Bangkok and stops at Vietnam, Japan, and China’s Hong Kong, Taiwan and Shanghai.

    Elizabeth, a tourist from Poland, said: “This is my first time in China, and I’m traveling with my family. I’m looking forward to this trip.” She added that she plans to go to the Great Wall in Beijing on her next trip.

    During their stay, tourists will visit Shanghai’s landmarks, including the Bund, Yuyuan Garden and Oriental Pearl Tower. They will also take trips to nearby cities like Suzhou in east China’s Jiangsu Province.

    Spectrum of the Seas, which operates from Wusongkou as its home port, is carrying about 2,600 foreign tourists on this cruise. Angela Stephen, senior vice president of Royal Caribbean’s international business, praised the terminal’s excellent facilities and beautiful surroundings, emphasizing the company’s confidence in the Chinese cruise market.

    Notably, the growing popularity of “China Travel” has fueled a surge in Shanghai’s cruise tourism market. Upcoming cruise ship visits include Mein Schiff 6 of TUI Cruises both this month and in April, while Costa Serena of Costa Cruises will return to the Chinese market in June.

    Shanghai is leveraging its cruise tourism potential by developing diverse travel products, aiming to establish itself as the premier destination for inbound cruise tourism in China. 

    MIL OSI China News –