NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Export Finance makes historic first visit to Turkmenistan

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    UK Export Finance makes historic first visit to Turkmenistan

    UK Export Finance visited Turkmenistan for the first time last month and met with key ministries and institutions.

    Ms Clare Allbless, Deputy Head of Mission, British Embassy Ashgabat, Ms Sebnem Alp, UKEF Country Head for Türkiye, Eastern Europe and Central Asia, and Ms Irem Kayhan, Deputy Head for Türkiye, Turkmenistan & Mongolia, Mr Eldar Latypov, Project Officer, British Embassy Ashgabat.

    The British Embassy in Ashgabat is pleased to announce the successful conclusion of the first-ever visit to Turkmenistan by senior representatives of UK Export Finance (UKEF), the UK Government’s export credit agency. From 23 to 27 June 2025, Ms Sebnem Alp, UKEF Country Head for Türkiye, Eastern Europe and Central Asia, and Ms Irem Kayhan, Deputy Head for Türkiye, Turkmenistan & Mongolia, held high-level meetings with key ministries and institutions across Turkmenistan.

    Productive discussions with the Ministries.

    The visit, graciously facilitated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, included productive discussions with the Ministry of Finance and Economy, Ministry of Energy, Central Bank, Vnesheconombank, and other strategic agencies. These engagements explored opportunities for UKEF to support major sovereign projects across infrastructure, fertiliser, transport, agriculture, water, and green transition sectors in Turkmenistan, potentially backed by UKEF guarantee support of up to £5 billion

    Ms Clare Allbless, Deputy Head of Mission, British Embassy Ashgabat, Ms Sebnem Alp, UKEF Country Head for Türkiye, Eastern Europe and Central Asia, and Ms Irem Kayhan, Deputy Head for Türkiye, Turkmenistan & Mongolia, Mr Eldar Latypov, Project Officer, British Embassy Ashgabat.

    This milestone visit marks a new chapter in UK – Turkmenistan relations and opens the door to deeper bilateral trade and investment cooperation. The British Embassy stands ready to support continued dialogue and collaboration between UKEF and the Government of Turkmenistan to deliver sustainable, high-quality development outcomes.

    Updates to this page

    Published 16 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government tackles postcode lottery of school technology

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Government tackles postcode lottery of school technology

    Every school to have reliable, safe tech in classrooms as government rolls out plans for the future of digital standards to ensure no child is left behind

    Pupils and staff across the country will have access to reliable, safe technology in their classroom as the government announces plans to help narrow the digital divide in schools – making outdated systems and patchy connectivity a thing of the past.

    Across the country there are stark inequalities where some pupils suffer from basic digital access whilst others benefit from cutting-edge technology, including AI – creating unfair barriers to learning and future opportunities.

    Following consultation with schools, the government is today (16 July) setting out expectations for schools and colleges to meet six digital standards by 2030, helping to end the postcode lottery in access to tech that has left too many pupils behind, by preventing teachers from delivering modern lessons and stopping pupils developing digital skills essential for modern careers.

    The six standards cover broadband internet, wireless networks, network switches, digital leadership, plus two safety requirements: cyber security and filtering and monitoring to keep pupils safe online. 

    Online safety is at the heart of the government’s plans, with the cyber security and filtering and monitoring standards designed so that as digital access improves, school IT systems are protected from cyber security threats and the risk of online threats – ensuring technology enhances children’s education.

    To support schools, the government will expand its Plan technology for your school service to give every school tailored support and guidance on how and where to make lasting, cost effective improvements to their technology.

    This comes alongside a £45 million investment from government this year to boost school infrastructure, including upgrades to fibre and wireless networks – helping get classrooms online and boosting standards where it is most needed.  

    Minister for Early Education, Stephen Morgan, said: 

    Every child deserves access to the digital tools that will prepare them for the modern world, regardless of which school they attend. For too long, we’ve seen a postcode lottery where some pupils thrive with cutting-edge technology whilst others are held back by outdated equipment. 

    Meeting our six digital standards will ensure that by 2030, all schools have the digital provision they need. We’re investing in our children’s futures, supporting pupils to get the digital access they need to succeed whilst keeping them safe online. 

    This is a key part of our Plan for Change – ensuring every child has the chance to reach their full potential and no pupil is left behind in the digital age.

    The Plan technology for your school service helps schools understand their bespoke technology needs, create digital strategies fit for the future and save money with guidance to enable them to strike the best deal possible with suppliers.

    Jisc will also continue to support colleges with expert advice on the use of technology and access to Janet, the UK’s National Research and Education Network.

    Evidence is clear that access to technology can boost a student’s attainment and meeting the standards will ensure every school has the digital infrastructure to deliver the technological support for staff and pupils for years to come. 

    The work forms part of the Government’s wider plan to break down barriers to opportunity, as too many pupils currently miss out on digital skills that are essential for modern careers, creating lasting disadvantage and impacting their future. The Connect the Classroom programme has so far improved connectivity for more than 1.3 million pupils in 3,700 schools.   

    By ensuring schools have reliable, safe technology, the Government is giving pupils – regardless of their school’s location or resources – the digital foundation they need to succeed in education and beyond. 

    Schools will work towards meeting the standards by 2030, with government support to ensure no pupil is left behind in the digital age.

    Updates to this page

    Published 16 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Announcement of Premier PDF Solutions 2025 Semiconductor Industry Events

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTA CLARA, Calif., July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PDF Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: PDFS), a leading provider of comprehensive data solutions for the semiconductor and electronics ecosystems, today announces that it will host two important semiconductor industry events in 2025.

    Connected Equipment Summit
    On October 9th, 2025, PDF Solutions will host its inaugural Connected Equipment Summit in Chandler, Arizona. This premier industry event will showcase the Company’s latest innovations in equipment connectivity, secure remote access and monitoring, and the transformative applications of AI and digital twin technology in semiconductor equipment management.

    Following PDF Solutions’ acquisition of secureWISE LLC earlier in 2025, the summit will unveil the details of the Company’s strategic vision to combine Cimetrix factory automation software solutions with secureWISE capabilities to deliver superior equipment operational efficiency and secure collaboration across the entire semiconductor ecosystem.

    The event will feature insights from key stakeholders throughout the semiconductor value chain, including equipment makers, foundries, and fabless companies. These industry leaders will share their experiences and success stories implementing secureWISE solutions, demonstrating the tangible value of secure remote semiconductor equipment connectivity and control from multiple perspectives within the ecosystem.

    Additional information including agenda, logistics and registration for the Connected Equipment Summit can be found using the following link:
    https://go.pdf.com/l/814523/2025-06-04/c94lg

    Users Conference
    On December 3rd and 4th, 2025, PDF Solutions will host its Users Conference in Santa Clara, CA. This high-profile industry event will cover the breadth of the PDF Solutions platform products and feature expert insights, real-world case studies, and interactive discussions designed to address the most pressing challenges in modern semiconductor manufacturing. The conference will be held in conjunction with PDF Solutions’ Analyst Day on Wednesday, December 3rd.

    For over 30 years, PDF Solutions has anticipated and supported the semiconductor industry’s transformation and needs by delivering innovative solutions. Today, the industry faces accelerating innovation—3D architectures, chiplets, and sophisticated hybrid packages—while navigating increasingly complex supply chains. Simultaneously, AI promises to revolutionize semiconductor design and manufacturing, creating unprecedented efficiency gains across all levels.

    This dynamic landscape demands new levels of collaboration and integration among key semiconductor ecosystem players. A new type of industry platform is essential to unify these diverse stakeholders.

    At this event, PDF Solutions will unveil its latest platform innovations, specifically engineered to:

    • Manage the unique characteristics and massive volumes of design and manufacturing data
    • Enable secure collaboration with robust IP protection
    • Leverage AI embedded throughout its architecture to help each participant rapidly evaluate and optimize business decisions

    This comprehensive event will explore cutting-edge developments in semiconductor manufacturing technology and digital transformation. Key topics will include:

    Strategic Overview

    • Product Strategy & Roadmap: Latest updates on PDF Solutions’ strategic direction and product release plans

    Technology Leadership & Innovation

    • Leading-Edge Technology Development: Keynote presentation on breakthrough innovations and acceleration strategies
    • Digital Transformation in Manufacturing: Keynote and panel discussion examining enterprise integration challenges and solutions in semiconductor production

    Supply Chain & Operations

    • Global Supply Chain Integration: Strategic approaches to operational control across distributed semiconductor manufacturing networks

    Advanced Analytics & AI Solutions

    • Compound Semiconductor Analytics: Keynote and panel discussion focused on manufacturing analytics and yield optimization in compound semiconductor production
    • Manufacturing Data Lake Architecture: In-depth exploration of PDF Solutions’ latest semiconductor manufacturing data platform
    • Scalable Data Analytics & Visualization: Deep dive into next-generation manufacturing data analytics and visualization capabilities
    • AI Model Deployment Infrastructure: Comprehensive overview of scalable artificial intelligence deployment solutions

    Equipment Management & Control

    • Secure Manufacturing Equipment Control: Solutions for secure management and control of semiconductor manufacturing systems
    • AI-Powered Equipment Optimization: Advanced artificial intelligence applications for equipment performance and process control

    Additional information including agenda, speakers, logistics and registration for the PDF Solutions 2025 Users Conference can be found using the following link:
    https://events.pdf.com/

    About PDF Solutions
    PDF Solutions (Nasdaq: PDFS) provides comprehensive data solutions designed to empower organizations across the semiconductor and electronics industry ecosystem to improve the yield and quality of their products and operational efficiency for increased profitability. The Company’s products and services are used by Fortune 500 companies across the semiconductor and electronics ecosystem to achieve smart manufacturing goals by connecting and controlling equipment, collecting data generated during manufacturing and test operations, and performing advanced analytics and machine learning to enable profitable, high-volume manufacturing.

    Founded in 1991, PDF Solutions is headquartered in Santa Clara, California, with operations across North America, Europe, and Asia. The Company (directly or through one or more subsidiaries) is an active member of SEMI, INEMI, TPCA, IPC, the OPC Foundation, and DMDII. For the latest news and information about PDF Solutions or to find office locations, visit https://www.pdf.com.

    Headquartered in Santa Clara, California, PDF Solutions also operates worldwide in Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Korea, Sweden, and Taiwan. For the Company’s latest news and information, visit https://www.pdf.com

    PDF Solutions and the PDF Solutions logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of PDF Solutions, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries in the United States and other countries.

    Company Contacts
    Christophe Begue
    VP, Corporate Strategic Marketing
    christophe.begue@pdf.com

    Sonia Segovia
    Investor Relations
    (408) 938-6491
    sonia.segovia@pdf.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Big Developments for Drone Stocks as White House Issues Executive Order to Unleash American Drone Dominance

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALM BEACH, Fla., July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – Two recent actions by the White House and the Department of Defense have been issued to cut the “Red Tape” and Unleash American Drone Dominance. An article in TheHill.com said that: “Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth issued a new directive to fast-track U.S. drone production and “cut red tape,” he announced in a video posted to social media. A new Pentagon memo outlined the U.S. military’s need to keep pace as global military drone production has skyrocketed lately, and the war between Russia and Ukraine has revealed the increasing importance of using more drones for modern warfare. Hegseth made the announcement of the major overhaul in U.S. military drone policy in a social media video where he can be seen flanked by operating drones. Hegseth said the Pentagon is cutting “red tape” and speeding up production. He also said he wants service members from all branches of the military to be trained in drone operations. “We were brought here to rebuild the military and match capabilities to the threats of today,” said Hegseth. “So while our adversaries have produced millions of cheap drones before us, we were mired in bureaucratic red tape, not anymore.” Also an Executive Order from the White House on June 6, 2025 addressed the issue to Unleash American Drone Dominance. It said, in part: “The Department of Defense must be able to procure, integrate, and train using low-cost, high-performing drones manufactured in the United States.” Active companies in the markets this week include: Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO) (CSE: DPRO), ZenaTech, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZENA), Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: RCAT), AeroVironment, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVAV), Unusual Machines, Inc. (NYSE American: UMAC).

    The order continued: “Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Defense shall coordinate with the Secretary of Transportation, acting through the Administrator of the FAA to streamline the approval processes to expand access to airspace for conducting UAS training. Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Defense shall, in consultation with the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information, and the Federal Communications Commission, submit a report to the President through the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs (APNSA) describing any unnecessary barriers to accessing electromagnetic spectrum for conducting UAS training.”

    Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO) (CSE: DPRO) Commander3 XL UAV Selected by Major Branch of the U.S. Department of Defense for Advanced Operation Initiatives – Draganfly Inc. (FSE: 3U8A) (“Draganfly” or the “Company”), an award-winning developer of drone solutions, software, and robotics, today announced the successful selection of its Commander3 XL (C3XL) UAV platform, also known as the ‘Swiss Army Knife’ of drones, by a major branch of the United States Department of Defense (DoD). This delivery supports next-generation deployment initiatives focused on advanced reconnaissance in combination with operational capabilities.

    The procurement was facilitated through a known prime contractor, with Draganfly engaging directly with end-user military stakeholders to ensure the platform was tailored to meet real-world mission requirements. The Commander3 XL platform is to be deployed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions that require additional operational capabilities underscoring the growing demand for adaptable UAV platforms in active defense scenarios.

    “This delivery further validates the Commander3 XL’s reliability and versatility for frontline applications,” said Cameron Chell, CEO of Draganfly. “We’re honored to support the DoD’s commitment to autonomous and semi-autonomous multi-mission systems that enhance operational effectiveness.”

    The Commander3 XL is renowned for its robust flight performance, modular payload options, and mission-specific adaptability, making it a trusted platform for complex defense, security, and emergency response operations. CONTINUED… Read this full press release and more news for Draganfly at: https://draganfly.com/news/

    Other recent developments in the drone industry of note include:

    ZenaTech, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZENA), a business technology solution provider specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drones, Drone as a Service (DaaS), Enterprise SaaS, and Quantum Computing solutions, recently announced it will accelerate expansion of its Phoenix Arizona-based facilities — including tripling the square footage size — to enable full US drone manufacturing, assembly and testing. This expansion comes earlier than expected due to the recent transformative US policy directives from the White House, the Department of Defense, and the recently passed ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ that collectively have unlocked federal funding for domestic production, cut outdated certification and procurement barriers, and fast-tracked deployment directly to frontline units without requiring Blue or Green UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) certification.

    These new directives make it dramatically easier and faster for American drone companies—especially those building Group 1 and 2 affordable drone systems—to sell directly to the military, scale production, and innovate without delays from traditional defense procurement bottlenecks. Together, they signal a clear national priority: build drones in America, field them fast, and outpace adversaries.

    Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: RCAT), a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations, recently has successfully closed the previously announced registered direct offering with certain institutional investors for the purchase and sale of 6,448,276 shares of common stock resulting in gross proceeds of approximately $46.75 million, before deducting placement agent fees and other offering expenses. The offering closed on June 18, 2025.

    The Company intends to use net proceeds from the offering for general corporate and working capital purposes, including but not limited to operating expenditures related to its new unmanned surface vessel division.

    “We believe this financing positions Red Cat for significant growth in the drone industry and will accelerate our product development and production for our newly formed Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs) division for the maritime autonomy market,” said Jeff Thompson, Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Red Cat.

    AeroVironment, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVAV) recently announced that its Wildcat uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) has achieved a series of development milestones in support of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s (DARPA) Early VTOL Aircraft Demonstration (EVADE). Wildcat has successfully completed VTOL-to-forward-flight transitions, validated its core flight and propulsion systems, and begun integrating critical mission payloads—demonstrating rapid progress toward an operationally relevant capability.

    Wildcat is a Group 3, tail-sitting vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft designed for launch and recovery from ship decks in denied and distributed maritime environments. Its compact footprint, autonomous launch and recovery, and robust flight performance across high sea states make it a flexible and scalable solution for contested littoral operations.

    Unusual Machines, Inc. (NYSE American:UMAC), a leader in drone technology and component manufacturing, recently announced the appointment of Tim Manton, CPA, as Corporate Controller, reporting to Chief Financial Officer Brian Hoff. Manton brings more than 15 years of experience in financial operations, M&A, and reporting across high-growth and acquisition-driven companies.

    “Tim brings strong financial acumen and experience critical to dynamic, scaling environments,” said Hoff. “His background in M&A, systems integration, and financial oversight makes him a valuable addition as we sharpen our focus on execution and operational efficiency.”

    About FN Media Group:

    At FN Media Group, via our top-rated online news portal at www.financialnewsmedia.com, we are one of the very few select firms providing top tier one syndicated news distribution, targeted ticker tag press releases and stock market news coverage for today’s emerging companies. #tickertagpressreleases #pressreleases

    Follow us on Facebook to receive the latest news updates: https://www.facebook.com/financialnewsmedia

    Follow us on Twitter for real time Market News: https://twitter.com/FNMgroup

    Follow us on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/financialnewsmedia/

    DISCLAIMER: FN Media Group LLC (FNM), which owns and operates FinancialNewsMedia.com and MarketNewsUpdates.com, is a third party publisher and news dissemination service provider, which disseminates electronic information through multiple online media channels. FNM is NOT affiliated in any manner with any company mentioned herein. FNM and its affiliated companies are a news dissemination solutions provider and are NOT a registered broker/dealer/analyst/adviser, holds no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security. FNM’s market updates, news alerts and corporate profiles are NOT a solicitation or recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities. The material in this release is intended to be strictly informational and is NEVER to be construed or interpreted as research material. All readers are strongly urged to perform research and due diligence on their own and consult a licensed financial professional before considering any level of investing in stocks. All material included herein is republished content and details which were previously disseminated by the companies mentioned in this release. FNM is not liable for any investment decisions by its readers or subscribers. Investors are cautioned that they may lose all or a portion of their investment when investing in stocks. For current services performed FNM was compensated twenty five hundred dollars for news coverage of the current press releases issued by Draganfly Inc. by a non-affiliated third party. FNM HOLDS NO SHARES OF ANY COMPANY NAMED IN THIS RELEASE.

    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. “Forward-looking statements” describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as “may”, “future”, “plan” or “planned”, “will” or “should”, “expected,” “anticipates”, “draft”, “eventually” or “projected”. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company’s annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and FNM undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

    Contact Information:

    Media Contact email: editor@financialnewsmedia.com – +1(561)325-8757 

    SOURCE: FN Media Group, LLC.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bazaarvoice Holiday Shopping 2025 Report: 47% of Today’s Smart, Selective Holiday Shoppers Are Buying Early to Avoid Price Increases

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bazaarvoice, Inc., the leading platform for authentic ratings and reviews and social commerce solutions, today released its latest holiday shopping study based on a survey of more than 8,000 global shoppers. The results revealed that in a challenging economy shoppers are scrutinizing value, options, and convenience. They are starting to holiday shop earlier, seeking out sales and free shipping, and opting for budget-friendly brands. 

    “Holiday shopping is here,” said Doug Straton, CMO at Bazaarvoice. “Shoppers are shopping earlier, prioritizing value, and turning to the trusted voices of their peers to guide their decisions – via reviews, social posts and other types of user-generated content. As the lines between content, commerce, and community continue to blur, it’s clear that authenticity, convenience, and trust remain key for holiday retail success.”

    Global survey highlights include:

    • Holiday shoppers are getting smarter and more strategic: 38% of all shoppers start holiday shopping before October, just 9% start in December. Almost half (47%) say they’re buying early to avoid price increases, while the other half (51%) say they wait for major sales like Black Friday. When it comes to shipping, price trumps speed as 48% said they would buy another product to qualify for free shipping, while only 21% said they would do the same to qualify for faster shipping. Lastly, affordable options rule, with nearly 45% actively seeking value, budget-friendly brands/low-cost alternatives.
    • Social media is no longer just a search engine, it’s a checkout: Compared to 2024, holiday purchases on social media jumped nine points, while the number of shoppers discovering gifts on social media dropped 16 points. Social platforms are successfully converting their discovery advantage into a direct sales channel.
    • Omnichannel experiences are a shopper’s expectation: Shoppers no longer think in channels, they expect seamless journeys. While 74% are planning to buy holiday gifts online, 53% will still do in-store shopping in some capacity in 2025. Over half (56%) of those 18-34 favor online shopping, while 49% of those 35-54 value in-store experiences. 
    • Content creators are shoppers’ holiday shopping north star: Trust in creator recommendations for the holidays increased by 30% compared to last year. Shoppers are becoming less focused on the product and more focused on who’s recommending it. Those 18-34 are most open to influencer recommendations, with 55% preferring micro influencers or their friends/family over mega influencers.
    • Authenticity is still very valued: Shoppers who are checking reviews for authenticity while holiday shopping is up from 40% last year to 50% this year. On the flip side, acceptance of AI-generated social content declined from 33% to 20% year-over-year. 

    To see more about the report, visit Bazaarvoice’s Holiday Headquarters. 

    Research methodology
    The research was commissioned by Bazaarvoice and conducted in March 2025 by Savanta among over 8,000 consumers in the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Australia, and Canada. 

    About Bazaarvoice
    Bazaarvoice is reshaping how brands and retailers connect with consumers by putting the consumer voice first, which includes ratings and reviews. With an end-to-end, commerce-empowered omni-channel content solutions and analytics platform, Bazaarvoice helps 14,000+ brands and retailers inform consumer decisions consistently and at scale at every stage of the shopper journey, on every platform where shoppers live. 2.5B shoppers use the Bazaarvoice Network on a monthly basis.

    Founded in 2005, Bazaarvoice is headquartered in Austin, Texas, with offices in North America, Europe, Australia, and India. For more information, visit www.bazaarvoice.com.

    Press Contact
    Lauren Venticinque
    Lauren.venticinque@bazaarvoice.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: PDF Solutions Announces 2025 Analyst Day

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTA CLARA, Calif., July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PDF Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: PDFS), a leading provider of comprehensive data solutions for the semiconductor ecosystem, today announced it will host its 2025 Analyst Day in conjunction with its 2025 Users Conference on Wednesday, December 3rd, 2025, at the Marriott Hotel in Santa Clara, CA. The event will feature presentations from Chief Executive Officer, President, and Co-Founder, John K. Kibarian, Ph.D., and Chief Financial Officer, Adnan Raza.

    Additional information, including registration details, can be found at this link: https://events.pdf.com/

    Presentations and a live webcast, including question and answer session will be made available on the day of the event on the Investor Relations section of the Company’s website, at https://ir.pdf.com/.

    About PDF Solutions

    PDF Solutions (Nasdaq: PDFS) provides comprehensive data solutions designed to empower organizations across the semiconductor and electronics industry ecosystem to improve the yield and quality of their products and operational efficiency for increased profitability. The Company’s products and services are used by Fortune 500 companies across the semiconductor and electronics ecosystem to achieve smart manufacturing goals by connecting and controlling equipment, collecting data generated during manufacturing and test operations, and performing advanced analytics and machine learning to enable profitable, high-volume manufacturing.

    Founded in 1991, PDF Solutions is headquartered in Santa Clara, California, with operations across North America, Europe, and Asia. The Company (directly or through one or more subsidiaries) is an active member of SEMI, INEMI, TPCA, IPC, the OPC Foundation, and DMDII. For the latest news and information about PDF Solutions or to find office locations, visit https://www.pdf.com.

    Headquartered in Santa Clara, California, PDF Solutions also operates worldwide in Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Korea, Sweden, and Taiwan. For the Company’s latest news and information, visit https://www.pdf.com

    PDF Solutions and the PDF Solutions logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of PDF Solutions, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries in the United States and other countries.

    Company Contacts

    Adnan Raza
    Chief Financial Officer
    P: +1 (408) 516-0237
    Email: adnan.raza@pdf.com

    Sonia Segovia
    Investor Relations
    P: +1 (408) 838-6491
    Email: sonia.segovia@pdf.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Solaris Enters Final Phase of Presale Ahead of July 31 Launch

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TALLINN, Estonia, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitcoin Solaris (BTC-S), a hybrid blockchain project focused on scalability, mobile accessibility, and decentralization, has entered the final phase of its presale, with the official token launch scheduled for July 31, 2025. This marks a significant milestone for the project, which has rapidly gained attention for its technical architecture and energy-efficient mining approach.

    As of today, Bitcoin Solaris is in Phase 12 of its presale, with tokens available at $12, offering a 4% bonus for early adopters. The upcoming launch price is set at $20, creating strong interest from retail participants ahead of the final listing.

    Bitcoin Solaris: Built for Scalability, Speed, and Real-World Utility

    Bitcoin Solaris aims to revolutionize how we interact with blockchain technology in our daily lives, without the bottlenecks.

    • Dual-layer blockchain structure
    • Hybrid consensus combining PoW for security and DPoS for scalability
    • 10,000+ transactions per second with 2-second finality
    • Fully audited by Cyberscope and Freshcoins for security confidence

    When it comes to blockchain architecture, Bitcoin Solaris merges the old-school security of Bitcoin with the modern-day efficiency demanded by DeFi, gaming, and real-world applications. The project’s ongoing partnership with Solana ensures lightning-fast transaction speeds during its early growth, while its native chain continues to evolve.

    Why Bitcoin Solaris Is Exploding Right Now

    Bitcoin Solaris is not just hype. It is backed by a robust technical foundation and a clear roadmap. Beyond the headlines, there’s a practical reason people are flocking to this project: it is accessible and built for mass adoption.

    • Mobile mining through the upcoming Solaris Nova App makes BTC-S available to everyone.
    • Mining is as simple as downloading an app. No technical knowledge required.
    • 99.95% more energy efficient than Bitcoin, making it environmentally sustainable.

    Through the exciting release of the Solaris Nova App, BTC-S will put mining into the hands of everyday users globally. Whether you’re on an iPhone, Android, or desktop, mining BTC-S is as simple as pressing a button. More miners mean more network security, which means greater value for early adopters.

    If you want to understand why Bitcoin Solaris is gaining such traction, multiple influencers have broken it down in detail:

    All point to the same thing: Bitcoin Solaris is shaping up to be the smartest entry point for investors looking for that second shot at crypto wealth.

    The Presale Is Heating Up, And Nearly Over

    We are in Phase 12 of the presale, and things are moving fast:

    • Current Price: $12
    • Next Phase: $13
    • Bonus this round: 4%
    • Launch Price: $20
    • Potential return: 150%

    With only around 3 weeks remaining until the July 31, 2025 launch date, urgency is key. Bitcoin Solaris has already raised over $6.6M, with more than 14,150 unique users locking in their positions. This is shaping up to be one of the shortest and most explosive presales in recent crypto history.

    Wallets like Trust Wallet and Metamask are recommended for seamless token delivery after launch.

    If you missed the first crypto boom, this presale is structured to ensure you don’t miss the next.

    You can secure your place directly through the Bitcoin Solaris website.

    Advanced Technology Driving a Wealth-Building Future

    What sets BTC-S apart isn’t just hype. It is the tech. The hybrid consensus model gives you both security and speed, while the dual-layer system ensures scalability without congestion.

    • Base Layer (PoW): Security through proven blockchain methods
    • Solaris Layer (DPoS): 100,000 TPS with 2-second finality
    • Smart contracts built on Rust and Solana standards
    • Zero-Knowledge Proofs for privacy-focused users

    BTC-S is not merely theoretical. Its roadmap is precise and ambitious. You can view the detailed Bitcoin Solaris Roadmap for more insights.

    About Bitcoin Solaris

    Bitcoin Solaris is a decentralized blockchain platform built to enable scalable, secure, and energy-efficient applications. Its dual-consensus system and mobile-first approach are designed to bring blockchain utility to mainstream users while maintaining robust decentralization principles.

    For more information on Bitcoin Solaris:
    Website: https://www.bitcoinsolaris.com/
     Telegram: https://t.me/Bitcoinsolaris
     X: https://x.com/BitcoinSolaris

    Media Contact:
    Xander Levine
    press@bitcoinsolaris.com
    Press Kit: Available upon request

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

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f563e283-5f50-4dca-9e28-2fc3ce0967fe

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d0119e70-5802-4954-ba22-95faf579444c

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2c8e4e5c-19b2-4f52-ba98-8e9743a02893

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/45dc316d-777c-46f5-998f-03072b12533b

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Lucinity and Zenoo partner to deliver full-lifecycle compliance—from onboarding to investigation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    REYKJAVIK, Iceland, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lucinity and Zenoo have formed a strategic partnership to provide financial institutions with a unified approach to compliance that connects onboarding, perpetual KYC, investigations, and reporting. By combining Zenoo’s no-code orchestration engine with Lucinity’s AI-powered case management platform, the partnership enables compliance teams to unify compliance processes, reduce manual work, and improve data quality across the entire customer lifecycle.

    The partnership bridges a long-standing gap in compliance operations: the disconnect between onboarding and KYC systems and the tools used for risk investigation. This integration enables institutions to carry high-quality data—such as identity verification, address validation, and fraud indicators—from the first customer interaction through to ongoing detection and case review. By unifying these stages, the collaboration supports stronger data integrity, more effective monitoring, and reduced false positives.

    Zenoo allows compliance teams to build and deploy onboarding and KYC workflows without engineering support. Their platform includes a visual journey builder for designing logic and flows, a real-time UI editor for branded customer experiences, and a marketplace of pre-integrated providers for identity verification, sanctions screening, and fraud checks. These workflows are dynamic, localized, and adapt to regulatory requirements and customer profiles. Zenoo also supports ongoing KYC by triggering re-verifications, updates, and risk reviews based on lifecycle events or behavioural changes, enabling a shift from static to perpetual KYC.

    Lucinity provides the infrastructure to act on those signals. Its platform includes a centralized Case Manager that consolidates alerts from AML, sanctions, fraud, and onboarding. Customer 360 gives investigators full context across internal and third-party sources, while the Luci AI Agent supports analysts with on-demand background checks, data lookups, and follow-up actions. Luci can also call Zenoo workflows directly—for example, to request a document from a customer or trigger a batch of identity verifications—without requiring integration work. Exceptions flagged during onboarding, such as failed checks or friction points, are automatically routed into Lucinity as structured cases. This gives compliance teams one place to manage investigations across the entire lifecycle.

    What distinguishes the partnership is its modular, API-first approach, allowing institutions to customize their compliance architecture without being locked into a single vendor stack. By connecting two interoperable platforms, the collaboration supports a flexible model for managing compliance workflows. This integration helps organizations move away from manual processes toward a more dynamic and intelligent ecosystem.

    Guðmundur Kristjánsson, Founder and CEO of Lucinity, said: “Zenoo strengthens our platform by delivering better onboarding data from the start. It improves Customer 360, sharpens case triage, and gives Luci more context to support faster, more accurate investigations.”

    Stuart Watkins, founder and CEO of Zenoo, added: “With Lucinity, we’re extending the value of onboarding far beyond the initial customer interaction. Now, the data we capture can drive real-time decisions, trigger investigations, and improve the quality of compliance across the board.”

    Contact
    Celina Pablo
    celina@lucinity.com
    +354 792 4321

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Town Hall restoration work set to get underway

    Source: City of Oxford

    Oxford City Council is pleased to announce a significant step forward in the restoration of one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

    The historic Town Hall is set to undergo essential cleaning and stone repair works to preserve and enhance its impressive façade. 

    Following detailed planning and behind-the-scenes progress, the Council has now appointed PAYE Stonework & Restoration Ltd as the principal contractor to carry out the work. Recognised for their expertise in heritage restoration and holding a Royal Warrant, PAYE brings a wealth of experience from high-profile conservation projects across the UK. Work on site is due to begin later this year. 

    The restoration, guided by heritage specialists Jessop and Cook Architects, will focus on cleaning the stonework—an essential first step that will enable thorough assessment and repair of structural and surface condition issues. The project is scheduled for completion by spring 2026. 

    Comment

    “Oxford Town Hall is a landmark building, a valued community space and a source of great pride. This restoration project will help ensure that its historical and architectural legacy is safeguarded for future generations and will maintain it at the heart of our community.”
    Councillor Ed Turner, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Asset Management

    The historic Town Hall is set to undergo essential cleaning and stone repair works to preserve and enhance its impressive façade. 

    Following detailed planning and behind-the-scenes progress, the Council has now appointed PAYE Stonework & Restoration Ltd as the principal contractor to carry out the work. Recognised for their expertise in heritage restoration and holding a Royal Warrant, PAYE brings a wealth of experience from high-profile conservation projects across the UK. Work on site is due to begin later this year. 

    The restoration, guided by heritage specialists Jessop and Cook Architects, will focus on cleaning the stonework—an essential first step that will enable thorough assessment and repair of structural and surface condition issues. The project is scheduled for completion by spring 2026. 

    The Town Hall serves a wide range of functions: it is home to Oxford City Council’s municipal offices, houses the Museum of Oxford, and hosts concerts, weddings, and civic events throughout the year, bringing a substantial income stream to support frontline services. Its neo-Jacobean architecture and storied past, dating back to its opening by the then Prince of Wales, make it a cherished fixture in the city’s urban fabric. 

    This restoration will not only improve the building’s appearance but will also extend its lifespan, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of Oxford’s heritage and civic life and that income from hiring out its rooms can continue to support frontline services. 

    For more information about the project and the history of Oxford Town Hall, visit: www.oxfordtownhall.co.uk 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Student design bureaus: a breeding ground for engineering personnel

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The Polytechnic University held an intensive educational course “Student Design Bureaus as a Tool for Preparing Highly Motivated and Conscious Engineers” for employees of industrial partner companies. Participants discussed how design bureaus help students master real engineering tasks.

    The goal of the intensive course is to introduce representatives of enterprises to the capabilities of SKB, demonstrate examples of successful projects and discuss prospects for joint work on developing the country’s engineering potential. Organizers are representatives of SKB “System Engineering”. The project became the winner in April 2025 competition of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation in the direction of “Student Design Leadership”Several design bureaus and engineering teams of the Polytechnic University are participating in its implementation.

    “To achieve technological leadership by 2030, we must involve young people in solving real engineering problems today, at the training stage. Student design bureaus allow not only to develop skills, but also to form the right professional motivation and awareness in students,” noted Oleg Rozhdestvensky, head of the SPbPU Office of Technological Leadership, on the basis of which the project is being implemented.

    Head of SKB “System Engineering”, Director of the Higher School of Power Engineering Alena Aleshina emphasized that SPbPU SKB is built as a multi-level ecosystem: school KBs – youth KBs – student KBs – employer. This allows us to identify talented children at early stages, support their training and involve them in project activities.

    The participants of the intensive course discussed the development trajectories of student design bureaus at universities, their goals and objectives, as well as the role of an industrial partner in this system. Special attention was paid to how to establish cooperation between an enterprise and SKB SPbPU, how student projects help solve specific problems under the guidance of curators representing companies, and ensure an influx of qualified personnel. The experts also shared examples of successfully implemented projects.

    The presentation session presented the areas of work of SKB “System Engineering”, starting with school design bureaus and ending with the best practices of interaction between industry and the university.

    The project to create a network of school design bureaus is a joint initiative of the Government of St. Petersburg and the Advanced Engineering School “Digital Engineering” of SPbPU (PISH CI). Director of the Center for Continuing Professional Education of PISH CI Sergey Salkutsan said that SHKB is a network of engineering creativity clubs based in schools. Students in grades 8–11, under the guidance of instructors, master engineering skills, work with modern software and solve real problems of industrial companies. The goal is early career guidance for schoolchildren, development of practical competencies and training of future qualified personnel for the industry.

    In the X-Lab Engineering Creativity Laboratory, students learn to combine knowledge from different disciplines when solving practical problems. Senior research fellow at PISh CI Mikhail Zhmailo spoke about the project workshop, which is part of the educational program and combines design, engineering, digital manufacturing, project management, and teamwork.

    Head of the engineering team Polytech Voltage Machine, engineer of the Higher School of Transport IMMiT SPbPU Vsevolod Gaiduk introduced the intensive participants to the team that develops robotic platforms for high cross-country ability and ground electric transport. Polytechnicians create solutions for people with disabilities and for firefighting.

    Arseniy Klyuev, Senior Lecturer at the Higher School of Power Engineering, spoke in more detail about the SKB Power Machines — Polytech. This is a unique educational cluster focused on training personnel for the Power Machines company. The end-to-end training trajectory begins with the school’s engineering classes and continues through youth and student design bureaus, bachelor’s and master’s programs. Senior students are involved in real engineering projects implemented in the interests of the company under the guidance of curators — specialists with experience in implementing R&D from the university and employees of the enterprise. The success of the project is ensured by coordination between the university and the company, effective infrastructure, a motivation system and corporate culture.

    Director of the Higher School of High-Voltage Power Engineering Viktor Belko showed the structure of the Electrical Machines department within the SKB Power Machines — Polytech. For example, the Electrical Insulation Laboratory trains personnel in the context of growing demand for domestic technologies. The main goal is to involve students in research activities from their first years to accumulate practical experience in the field of electrical insulation and electrical machines, which cannot be fully ensured within the framework of traditional educational standards. The center, based on successful experience in fulfilling contracts in the field of electrical engineering and an established research base, interacts with industrial partners and forms flexible teams of students under the supervision of specialists from the university and companies.

    Of particular interest was the practical case of interaction between the Power Machines company and students, starting from the second year, in terms of participation in the educational program. Leading project manager Alexandra Grigorieva presented the areas of work and the results of interaction with SPbPU within the framework of the Power Machines Trajectory, which formed the basis for the advanced training of junior students for further participation in the Power Machines – Polytech SKB. Students gain the opportunity to receive a scholarship, master a working profession and find employment.

    The seminar participants visited the laboratories and workspaces of the SKB “System Engineering” teams and saw the students’ developments. Including a racing car and a solar car of the Polytech North Capital Motorsport engineering racing team, the results of the work of X-Lab and SKB “Unmanned Aviation Systems”, as well as a fire robot of the Polytech Voltage Machine team.

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Human Rights Committee Adopts Reports on Follow-Up to Concluding Observations Concerning Armenia and Germany

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    The Human Rights Committee today adopted reports on follow-up to concluding observations concerning Armenia and Germany.

    Yvonne Donders, Committee Expert and the Special Rapporteur on follow-up to concluding observations, presented the assessment of the responses provided by Armenia and Germany. The overall recommended action for the two assessments was to send a letter to each of the States parties informing them of the discontinuation of the follow-up procedure and that further information requested by the Committee should be addressed in their next periodic reports, which were due in 2028 for all States parties under assessment.

    Regarding Armenia, the Committee focused on three recommendations concerning violence against women; the right of peaceful assembly and excessive use of force; and participation in public affairs.  On violence against women, the Committee welcomed amendments made to the “law on domestic violence” by the State party, as well as the “SafeYou” mobile application, allowing victims of violence to promptly receive support.  However, the Committee was concerned about reports of the discriminatory application of protection orders, the lack of concrete information on the means of redress provided to victims, as well as reports indicating that misconceptions and stereotypes regarding women and domestic violence persisted.

    Armenia was therefore recommended to revise the law on domestic violence to ensure a victim-centred approach; establish an effective mechanism to encourage the reporting of cases of violence against women and intensify efforts to address the social stigmatisation of victims; ensure that all cases of violence against women were promptly and thoroughly investigated, and that victims had access to effective remedies and means of protection; and to consider ratifying the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combatting Violence against Women and Domestic Violence. 

    On excessive use of force, the Committee welcomed the adoption of the legislation on the Police Guard and amendments to the law on freedom of assembly, as well as the efforts taken to provide training to law enforcement officers on the use of force.  However, it regretted the reports of the continued disproportionate use of force by police and obstruction of and violence against journalists during protests. 

    Armenia was urged to strengthen its efforts to ensure that all law enforcement officers found responsible for excessive use of force during the events in March 2008, June 2015, July 2016 and April 2018, were held accountable and appropriately sanctioned, and that all the victims received adequate compensation and rehabilitation; to review the amendments to the law on freedom of assemblies to bring it into conformity with the Covenant; to refrain from undue interference with assembly participants and reduce police presence at peaceful demonstrations; ensure that impartial and thorough investigations were undertaken by the public prosecutor’s office into all allegations of the excessive use of force and arbitrary arrest and detention by State agents at protests; and to ensure that domestic laws and regulations on the use of force were in full conformity with international standards. 

    On participation in public affairs, the Committee welcomed the legislative package submitted to the National Assembly proposing amendments to the Electoral Code, including measures to increase the accessibility of polling stations for persons with disabilities.  However, it was concerned about information indicating that institutional barriers to political participation of persons with disabilities remained, including legal restrictions which denied persons recognised by a court as “incapacitated” the right to elect and to be elected and the right to participate in referendums.

    Armenia was called on to ensure that the mandatory disclosure of campaign financing information was fully respected to improve transparency and create equal conditions for the campaign; revise the limitations on the right to stand for presidential and legislative elections; and ensure full accessibility of polling stations for persons with disabilities.

    Committee Experts thanked the Special Rapporteur for her report and underscored how vital the follow-up procedure was to the work of the Committee.  Experts said Armenia had made substantial progress with respect to improving the legal framework, but still had work to do with implementation and effectiveness.  It was troubling that investigations in the State party were pending for more than 10 years. 

    In response, Ms. Donders agreed that it was serious that investigations in Armenia were pending after so many years.

    Concerning Germany, the Committee noted three recommendations, including on intersex persons, institutional care, and on the right to privacy.  For intersex children, the Committee welcomed that a review was under way to evaluate how to further improve safeguards for intersex children, and that a review of the new provisions under the act on the protection of children with variations in sexual development would take place within five years from its adoption.  However, it regretted the lack of information provided regarding compliance and implementation of the act and the provision of remedies in practice.

    Germany was recommended to ensure that all acts relating to the assignment of a sex to intersex children performed without their free and informed consent were specifically prohibited, except in cases where such interventions were absolutely necessary for medical reasons and the best interests of the child had been duly taken into account, including the consideration of amendments to the law on the protection of children with variations in sex development of 2021.  Germany should also ensure that all victims had access to remedies, and ensure that all victims had access to their health records and consider establishing a dedicated compensation fund.

    On institutional care, the Committee welcomed the 2022 resolution on protection from violence for people in need of care, which initiated efforts to develop practical safeguards, but regretted the absence of data on inspections of care facilities, and the outcomes and the sanctions imposed in relation to the use of physical and chemical restraints.  The Committee also noted with satisfaction that the mental health acts of the Länder were becoming increasingly uniform in the areas of physical restraint and compulsory medication but regretted the lack of information on further steps taken to harmonise the legal standards in the different Länder on the involuntary hospitalization and forced committal of those with psychosocial disabilities. Furthermore, while welcoming the replacement of former section 1905 of the Civil Code with new section 1830 through the act to reform the law on guardianship, the Committee regretted that the legislation still provided for circumstances under which the forced sterilisation of adults with disabilities remained permissible.

    The Committee recommended that Germany should continue efforts to monitor, prevent and eradicate the use of physical and chemical restraints in institutional care settings, as well as all forms of abuse against older persons and those with psychosocial disabilities in these institutions; consider further harmonising the legal standards in the different Länder on the involuntary hospitalisation and forced committal of those with psychosocial disabilities; remove any exception in the law to the ban on the forced sterilisation of adults with disabilities; and consider increasing the availability of specific complaints mechanisms to receive, investigate and facilitate the prosecution and punishment of those responsible for all forms of abuse in institutional care settings.

    On the right to privacy, the Committee welcomed Germany’s efforts to ensure that all types of surveillance activities and interference with privacy were in full conformity with the Covenant, including the reforms of the federal intelligence service act, and legislative amendments made in response to decisions of the Federal Constitutional Court, including the establishment of the Independent Control Council in 2022.  However, the Committee regretted the lack of concrete information on the practical implementation of the federal intelligence service act. 

    The Committee recommended that Germany should ensure that all types of surveillance activities and interference with privacy were in full conformity with the Covenant, complying with the principles of legality, proportionality and necessity and subject to judicial authorisation.  Germany should also ensure that surveillance was subject to effective independent oversight mechanisms, namely judicial mechanisms, and ensure access to effective remedies in cases of abuse.

    Committee Experts welcomed that Germany had been on time in presenting its information on the three recommendations.  However, the State party had the resources and capacity to provide the data requested of them by the Committee.  The State party had taken positive steps, but questions remained around implementation. 

    In response, Ms. Donders said Germany had taken substantive legislative reforms, among other activities, and was optimistic that the State party would provide additional information and data requested by the Committee. 

    In closing, Changrok Soh, Committee Chairperson, expressed gratitude to the Special Rapporteur and other Experts for their dedication and commitment. 

    The draft reports were adopted by the Committee as amended during the discussion and will be available on the web page dedicated to the follow-up procedure for concluding observations.

    The Human Rights Committee’s one hundred and forty-fourth session is being held from 23 June to 17 July 2025.  All the documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage.  Meeting summary releases can be found here.  The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

    The Committee will next meet in public at 4 p.m. on Thursday, 17 July to close its one hundred and forty-fourth session. 

    ___________

    Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media; 
    not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

     

    CCPR25.018E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Sustainability of fishery and aquaculture products: Informing consumers – 16-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Recent surveys suggest that there is a growing interest among consumers in being informed about the environmental impact of the fishery products they buy. The sustainable exploitation of fish resources is one of the main objectives of the common fisheries policy (CFP). Its implementation is supported by several pieces of legislation, in particular measures on fisheries control and traceability. The information consumers receive on fishery products is mainly based on the general EU consumer protection legislation and complemented by additional provisions under the CFP. There are, however, control and information gaps, which arise mainly from three issues: different labelling rules for fresh and prepared fishery products; different control levels in Member States; and potentially different standards for imported products. In a number of resolutions, the European Parliament has identified shortcomings and suggested solutions. Several ongoing policy initiatives could help to bridge the gap between consumer expectations and actual product traceability.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Compatibility of northern extension of A33 motorway with Habitats Directive and Natura 2000 site’s conservation objectives – E-002789/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002789/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Jutta Paulus (Verts/ALE)

    In its answer to written question E-001537/2025[1], the Commission mentions its competence to issue an opinion under the second subparagraph of Article 6(4) of Directive 92/43/EEC (the Habitats Directive) for projects affecting priority habitat types such as 91E0*. Against this background, reference is made to Germany’s plans to build a new northern section of the A33 motorway in the Osnabrück area. The extension will cross the Wiehengebirge bat habitat near Osnabrück (Natura site DE3614334) and is likely to have a significant impact on the priority habitat type 91E0*, most notably because of the increased nitrogen pollution from road traffic. According to the press, the project has been submitted to the Commission for assessment.

    • 1.In order to carry out a comprehensive assessment, has the Commission assumed that all relevant documents concerning the conservation area, including any objections from public participation, have been submitted by the Member State?
    • 2.When drafting its opinion, has it take account of whether the site conservation objectives have been set in accordance with the provisions of the Habitats Directive and the ECJ case-law?
    • 3.Does it agree that, given the constant nitrogen pollution the conservation area will likely be exposed to, a permanent speed limit needs to be considered as a necessary mitigation measure under Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive?

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    • [1] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2025-001537-ASW_EN.html
    Last updated: 16 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Promoting the consumption of plant-based foods, introducing EU-wide vegan and vegetarian labels, and clarifying the wording of labelling – E-002799/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002799/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Anja Hazekamp (The Left), Sebastian Everding (The Left), Tilly Metz (Verts/ALE), Anna Strolenberg (Verts/ALE)

    Food consumption patterns play a crucial role in addressing climate change. Scientists have stressed the need for a shift towards more plant-based diets, benefiting both the environment and health[1]. The growing availability of diverse plant-based products in EU supermarkets has enabled consumers to incorporate more plant-based foods into their diets, supporting a more balanced protein intake.

    • 1.What measures will the Commission propose to encourage citizens to diversify their protein sources and to promote increased consumption of plant-based foods, as recommended by the scientific community?
    • 2.Will the Commission consider proposing an EU-wide label for vegan and vegetarian products, as recommended by the European Court of Auditors in 2024[2]?
    • 3.Food labelling is essential to inform consumers about the composition, taste, texture and versatility of products. In 2024, the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) ruled that plant-based foods can continue to be sold and promoted using terms normally associated with meat, as long as their composition is clearly labelled and does not mislead consumers. Will the Commission respect this ruling when proposing the new common agricultural policy or other additional rules, including those that will also affect non-agricultural foodstuffs?

    Supporter[3]

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    • [1] EAT-Lancet Commission report ‘Healthy Diets from Sustainable Food Systems’.
    • [2] https://www.eca.europa.eu/en/publications/SR-2024-23.
    • [3] This question is supported by a Member other than the authors: Cristina Guarda (Verts/ALE)
    Last updated: 16 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) 2015/848 on insolvency proceedings to replace its Annexes A and B – A10-0127/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    DRAFT EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION

    on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) 2015/848 on insolvency proceedings to replace its Annexes A and B

    (COM(2025/0040) – C10‑0009/2025 – 2025/0023(COD))

    (Ordinary legislative procedure: first reading)

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to the Commission proposal to Parliament and the Council (COM(2025/0040)),

    – having regard to Article 294(2) and Article 81(2), points (a), (c) and (f)  of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, pursuant to which the Commission submitted the proposal to Parliament (C10‑0009/2025),

    – having regard to Article 294(3) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

    – having regard to Rule 60 of its Rules of Procedure,

    – having regard to the report of the Committee on Legal Affairs (A10-0127/2025),

    1. Adopts its position at first reading hereinafter set out;

    2. Calls on the Commission to refer the matter to Parliament again if it replaces, substantially amends or intends to substantially amend its proposal;

    3. Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments.

     

    Amendment  1

    Proposal for a regulation

    Recital 2

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (2) In July 2022, Slovakia notified the Commission of recent changes of its domestic insolvency law introducing a new preventive restructuring procedure and a new type of insolvency practitioner. That notification was followed by notifications from Estonia, Spain, Malta and Italy in September 2022, from Belgium in July 2023 and from Luxembourg in January 2024, all relating to recent changes to their domestic law that introduce new types of insolvency proceedings or insolvency practitioners. Those new types of insolvency proceedings and insolvency practitioners comply with the requirements set out in Regulation (EU) 2015/848 and make it necessary to amend Annexes A and B to that Regulation.

    (2) In July 2022, Slovakia notified the Commission of recent changes of its domestic insolvency law introducing a new preventive restructuring procedure and a new type of insolvency practitioner. That notification was followed by notifications from Estonia, Spain and Italy in September 2022, from Belgium in July 2023, from Malta in September 2023 and from Luxembourg in January 2024, all relating to recent changes to their domestic law that introduce new types of insolvency proceedings or insolvency practitioners. Those new types of insolvency proceedings and insolvency practitioners comply with the requirements set out in Regulation (EU) 2015/848 and make it necessary to amend Annexes A and B to that Regulation.

    Amendment  2

    Proposal for a regulation

    Recital 2 a (new)

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

     

    (2a) After the Commission presented its proposal, further notifications were received from Bulgaria, the Czech Republic and France relating to recent changes to their domestic law that introduce new types of insolvency proceedings or insolvency practitioners.

    Amendment  3

    Proposal for a regulation

    Recital 3

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (3) In accordance with [Articles 1 and 2] [in case of non-participation] [Article 3] [in case of participation]and Article 4a(1) of Protocol No 21 on the position of the United Kingdom and Ireland in respect of the area of freedom, security and justice, annexed to the Treaty on European Union and to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, [Ireland has notified [, by letter of …,] its wish to take part in the adoption and application of this Regulation]/[without prejudice to Article 4 of that Protocol, Ireland is not taking part in the adoption of this Regulation and is not be bound by it or subject to its application].

    (3) In accordance with Article 3 and Article 4a(1) of Protocol No 21 on the position of the United Kingdom and Ireland in respect of the area of freedom, security and justice, annexed to the Treaty on European Union and to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, Ireland has notified, by letter of 12 May 2025, its wish to take part in the adoption and application of this Regulation.

    Amendment  4

    Proposal for a regulation

    Annex A – indent 11 a (new)

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

     

    – Производство по несъстоятелност на предприемача,

    Amendment  5

    Proposal for a regulation

    Annex A – indent 11 b (new)

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

     

    – Производство по погасяване на задължения,

    Amendment  6

    Proposal for a regulation

    Annex A – indent 11 c (new)

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

     

    – Производство по стабилизация на предприемача,

    Amendment  7

    Proposal for a regulation

    Annex A – indent 14 a (new)

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

     

    – Veřejná preventivní restrukturalizace,

    Amendment  8

    Proposal for a regulation

    Annex A – indent 40

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    – Planes de reestructuración,

    – Planes de reestructuración (con publicidad registral),

    Amendment  9

    Proposal for a regulation

    Annex A – indent 44

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    – Sauvegarde financière accélérée,

    deleted

    Amendment  10

    Proposal for a regulation

    Annex A – indent 96

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    – Proċedura bażika ta’ ristrutturar preventive,

    – Proċedura bażika ta’ ristrutturar preventiv,

    Amendment  11

    Proposal for a regulation

    Annex B – indent 17 a (new)

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

     

    – Restrukturalizační správce,

     

     

    ANNEX: ENTITIES OR PERSONS FROM WHOM THE RAPPORTEUR HAS RECEIVED INPUT

    The rapporteur declares under his exclusive responsibility that he did not receive input from any entity or person to be mentioned in this Annex pursuant to Article 8 of Annex I to the Rules of Procedure.

     

     

    PROCEDURE – COMMITTEE RESPONSIBLE

    Title

    Amendment of Regulation (EU) 2015/848 on insolvency proceedings to replace its Annexes A and B

    References

    COM(2025)0040 – C10-0009/2025 – 2025/0023(COD)

    Date submitted to Parliament

    12.2.2025

     

     

     

    Committee(s) responsible

     Date announced in plenary

    JURI

    10.3.2025

     

     

     

    Rapporteurs

     Date appointed

    Ilhan Kyuchyuk

    18.2.2025

     

     

     

    Simplified procedure – date of decision

    18.2.2025

    Discussed in committee

    4.6.2025

     

     

     

    Date adopted

    24.6.2025

     

     

     

    Result of final vote

    +:

    –:

    0:

    23

    0

    0

    Members present for the final vote

    Maravillas Abadía Jover, José Cepeda, Ton Diepeveen, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Sergey Lagodinsky, Mario Mantovani, Kira Marie Peter-Hansen, Pascale Piera, Emil Radev, René Repasi, Krzysztof Śmiszek, Adrián Vázquez Lázara, Dainius Žalimas

    Substitutes present for the final vote

    Henrik Dahl, Laurence Farreng, Angelika Niebler, Gheorghe Piperea, Julie Rechagneux, Arash Saeidi, Eric Sargiacomo, Marcin Sypniewski, Jana Toom

    Members under Rule 216(7) present for the final vote

    Lara Wolters

    Date tabled

    9.7.2025

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Concerns regarding potential binding electric vehicle mandates for corporate fleets and the impact on EU competitiveness – E-002744/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002744/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Zala Tomašič (PPE)

    On 5 March 2025, the Commission published a communication on decarbonising corporate fleets, with a legislative proposal expected by year-end. There are indications that the Commission is considering binding electric vehicle (EV) purchase mandates for EU corporate fleets. Such mandates could significantly affect fleet operators and customers across vehicle segments – passenger cars, vans, heavy-duty vehicles, buses and coaches – and have major implications for the competitiveness of Europe’s vehicle manufacturers and suppliers.

    In light of this:

    • 1.Will the Commission ensure – through a full impact assessment, Regulatory Scrutiny Board review, and SME and competitiveness checks – that the principles of proportionality, subsidiarity, and Better Regulation are upheld in this proposal – while also clarifying how technological neutrality will be maintained, particularly regarding the role of plug-in hybrid vehicles and whether they will count towards compliance?
    • 2.Will the Commission impose binding EV quotas despite concerns over flexibility, infrastructure gaps and operational viability, and how does it intend to define ‘corporate fleets’ – including whether businesses whose operations depend on vehicles (e.g. logistics) will be covered – while also addressing the associated risks of EV devaluation and declining resale values?
    • 3.What measures will be taken to assess and mitigate the impact of any purchase mandates on the competitiveness of the European automotive industry and its supply chain?

    Supporters[1]

    Submitted: 2.7.2025

    • [1] This question is supported by Members other than the author: Ondřej Krutílek (ECR), Paulius Saudargas (PPE), Christine Singer (Renew), Sophia Kircher (PPE), Angelika Niebler (PPE), Matej Tonin (PPE), Alexandra Mehnert (PPE), Jens Gieseke (PPE)
    Last updated: 16 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Unusable stocks following the entry into force of the Commission’s proposed legislation on lead ammunition – E-002811/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002811/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Riho Terras (PPE)

    The EC’s proposed legislation on lead ammunition draws a distinction between ‘large-calibre’ (≥ 5.6 mm) and ‘small-calibre’ (

    As lead ammunition cannot simply be discarded or repurposed, mainly on account of its explosive components, after the proposed transitional period of 18 months, producers, sellers and users would be left with significant unusable stocks of lead-based centrefire ammunition.

    Could the Commission explain whether appropriate compensation mechanisms have been considered for affected stakeholders, who would suffer financial losses as a result of being left with unusable stocks of lead-based centrefire ammunition after 18 months?

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    Last updated: 16 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – Ordinary Delegation meeting – 09 July 2025, Strasbourg – Delegation for Northern cooperation and for relations with Switzerland and Norway and to the EU-Iceland Joint Parliamentary Committee and the European Economic Area (EEA) Joint Parliamentary Committee

    Source: European Parliament

    The Delegation for Northern Cooperation and for Relations with Switzerland and Norway and to the EU-Iceland Joint Parliamentary Committee and the European Economic Area Joint Parliamentary Committee met on Wednesday, 9 July from 17.30 until 18.00 in room WEISS N3.5, Strasbourg.

    During the meeting the Vice-Chairs of the Delegation were elected by acclamation:

    MEP Christophe GRUDLER (Renew, FR) as First Vice Chair

    MEP Gheorghe CÂRCIU (S&D, RO) as Second Vice Chair

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Common agricultural policy reform – P-002877/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002877/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Daniel Buda (PPE)

    The Commission proposed a reform of the common agricultural policy (CAP) and integration of the agricultural budget into flexible national plans, in order for funding to be rerouted to other priorities. The proposal was scrapped after opposition from farmers, agriculture ministers and the farming lobby. Although the structure of the CAP has been salvaged, it will suffer major budget cuts of an estimated 15 % to 25 %, which will affect direct payments to farmers and is liable to spark renewed protests.

    Since the current structure of the CAP is to be retained, how will the Commission manage the impact of these estimated budget cuts on farmers, particularly when it comes to keeping farms viable and competitive, and ensuring long-term food security and the sustainability of the agricultural sector, given the EU’s new strategic priorities?

    Submitted: 15.7.2025

    Last updated: 16 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Sound economic governance as a precondition for RRF payments – 16-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The €650 billion Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) finances reform and investment measures in EU Member States until 2026 to mitigate the socio-economic upshots of the pandemic and foster the twin transitions. Article 10 of the RRF Regulation sets out conditions for commitment and payment suspensions based on the macroeconomic position of Member States. In cases where the public finances of EU countries are not in line with the EU economic governance framework and Member States do not make any credible efforts to correct macroeconomic imbalances, the European Commission may propose the enactment of RRF suspensions to the Council. Any suspension would stop the countries concerned from benefiting in full and on time from RRF grants and loans. The Commission has not proposed any such suspension so far.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Ensuring public transparency in the General-Purpose AI Code of Practice – E-002796/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002796/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Brando Benifei (S&D), Michael McNamara (Renew), Axel Voss (PPE), Kim Van Sparrentak (Verts/ALE), Sergey Lagodinsky (Verts/ALE)

    It is with great concern that we take note of the last-minute removal of key areas, such as public transparency, from General-Purpose AI Code of Practice and the weakening of risk assessment and mitigation provisions[1]. We reiterate the cross-party message of 25 March 2025 that using a code of practice to reinterpret and narrow a legal text agreed by the co-legislators is problematic and undemocratic, and creates legal uncertainty[2].

    • 1.How does the Commission consider the objectives of the AI Act[3] and due process to be safeguarded if Parliament was not consulted on such significant changes to the final draft, while most providers reportedly received the full text of the final draft?
    • 2.Does the Commission agree that public transparency and accountability are essential for enforcing the AI Act and that fostering trust and widespread adoption of AI depend on the availability of accurate information for citizens, downstream providers, and users?
    • 3.How does the Commission expect the AI Act to support a market for trustworthy and reliable AI in Europe, especially for downstream providers, small and medium-sized enterprises and consumers in Europe, with a lack of public transparency and weakened risk assessments, and when documentation can be submitted long after models appear on the market?

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    • [1] https://www.mlex.com/mlex/artificial-intelligence/articles/2361422/civil-society-academics-ask-to-enhance-transparency-in-eu-code-for-ai-models.
    • [2] According to settled case law, the adoption of rules essential to the subject-matter envisaged is reserved to the legislature of the European Union (see, to that effect, Case C 104/97 P Atlanta v European Community [1999] ECR I 6983, paragraph 76; and C 356/97 Molkereigenossenschaft Wiedergeltingen [2000] ECR I 5461, paragraph 21). The essential rules governing the matter in question must be laid down in the basic legislation and may not be delegated (see, to that effect, Case C 156/93 Parliament v Commission [1995] ECR I 2019, paragraph 18; Parliament v Council, paragraph 23; Case C 48/98 Söhl & Söhlke [1999] ECR I 7877, paragraph 34; and Case C 133/06 Parliament v Council [2008] ECR I 3189, paragraph 45 and CJEU ruling C-355/10 paragraph 64).
    • [3] Regulation (EU) 2024/1689 of 13 June 2024 laying down harmonised rules on artificial intelligence, OJ L, 2024/1689, 12.7.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1689/oj.
    Last updated: 16 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Cohesion funding: deal on mid-term update responding to new challenges

    Source: European Parliament

    Parliament and Council teams have reached an agreement on new priorities for and modifications to the current cycle of EU cohesion funding.

    Negotiators from Parliament and the Danish Council Presidency have agreed provisionally on a mid-term update to the EU’s current cycle of cohesion policy funding, which aims to reduce regional inequalities through the European Regional Development Fund, the Cohesion Fund and the Just Transition Fund.

    The changes will offer member states and regions more flexibility to channel funds into new objectives, namely defence industrial capabilities and military mobility, water resilience, affordable housing, decarbonisation, strategic technologies, and energy infrastructure. The reform also allows for extra support for EU regions bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine, highlighting their special needs in a tense geopolitical environment.

    To inject liquidity quickly into the new priorities, it was agreed that this spending can benefit from i.a. co-financing rates 10 percentage points higher than normal and of 20% one-off pre-financing for amounts re-allocated in 2026.


    Investment in civil preparedness and dual-use infrastructure

    MEPs secured several adjustments to the new priorities. According to the agreement, civil preparedness investments will be eligible for support, and dual-use infrastructure (suitable for both civilian and military use) will be prioritised when funding the defence industry and military mobility. When it comes to affordable housing, sustainability of the housing stock will be taken into account, and water resilience priorities will be aligned with the European water resilience strategy, including investments in irrigation and desalination.

    To ensure that cohesion policy maintains its focus on small and medium-sized enterprises and less favoured regions, it was agreed that the strategic technology investments of large companies can only be supported in EU areas with lower-than-average gross domestic product per capita.

    The agreement also includes language on rule of law conditionality, ensuring that funds frozen because of breaches of EU values cannot be reallocated to the new priorities.


    Quote

    After the vote, rapporteur and Committee Chair Dragoș Benea (S&D, Romania) said: “We currently face several uncertainties, and this reform is part of our European response, strengthening our industrial base, technology sector, and sustainable and affordable housing stock. It will also help regions manage their water resources, preventing and responding to floods and droughts, and continue the process of decarbonisation. Today’s agreement ensures that while we adjust cohesion policy to meet the challenges of the moment, it also remains a cornerstone of European integration and solidarity, bridging differences and delivering for all citizens – no matter which region they live in.”


    Background

    In parallel, the Employment and Social Affairs Committee is discussing similar proposals in the context of the European Social Fund +.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Managing lead gunshot at outdoor sports shooting ranges – P-002809/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002809/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Riho Terras (PPE)

    The Commission has proposed prohibiting the discharge of lead gunshot at outdoor sport shooting ranges, with a transitional period of five years. By way of a derogation of that time limit, Member States may authorise the use of lead gunshot sizes between 1.9 and 2.6 mm at sport shooting ranges provided that the risk management measures laid down in Appendix X are in place. One of the conditions for authorisation is that outdoor sport shooting ranges have ‘containment, monitoring and, where necessary, treatment of drainage water (including surface water run-off) from gunshot-impact areas to ensure compliance with the environmental quality standard for lead specified under Directive 2000/60/EC’.

    Could the Commission clarify:

    • 1.how many outdoor shooting ranges in the EU already fulfil the proposed water treatment requirement;
    • 2.the estimated cost per outdoor shooting range of installing the water treatment required under the proposal;
    • 3.the practical implications of the reference to the environmental quality standard for lead specified under Directive 2000/60/EC?

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    Last updated: 16 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Hearings – REGI Public Hearing on Cohesion Policy for Outermost Regions – 15-07-2025 – Committee on Regional Development

    Source: European Parliament

    Island life © Image used under license from Adobe Stock

    The Committee on Regional Development held a public hearing on Enhancing Cohesion Policy for Outermost Regions and Islands: Navigating Challenges and Seizing Opportunities Post-2027.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Netherlands: EIB, Rabobank, and DLL partner to provide €1 billion for European SMEs with a focus on sustainability and agriculture

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • The European Investment Bank signs two €250 million loan facilities with Rabobank and its subsidiary DLL, aimed at supporting access to finance for European companies.
    • The Rabobank facility targets SMEs and mid-caps in the Netherlands committed to investing in the energy transition and enhancing their organizational sustainability.
    • The DLL facility provides access to finance, in multiple EU countries, to SMEs and mid-caps focused on climate action and sustainability, with an emphasis on circularity, food, and energy transitions.

    Rabobank, DLL, and the European Investment Bank are partnering to increase access to finance for SMEs and mid-caps with a particular emphasis on sustainability and bioeconomy sectors, including agriculture.

    Rabobank will borrow €250 million from the EIB and match this amount with its own funds, making €500 million available to support small-scale projects undertaken by Dutch SMEs and mid-caps, with a focus on sustainability and agriculture. Specifically, at least 40% of investments are earmarked for climate-relevant investments, and at least 40% of the available funding will be directed towards bioeconomy sectors, including agriculture.

    DLL has secured an additional €250 million, which it will also match with its own funds, aiming to improve access to finance for SMEs and mid-caps across the EU. The focus will be on France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Belgium, Sweden, Poland, Ireland, and the Netherlands, targeting investments in sustainability by local companies.

    In total, the combined EIB loans as well as Rabobank and DLL’s matching funds will make €1 billion in new funding available for SMEs and mid-caps, with a particular focus on financing climate-relevant and agricultural projects.

    “It is important to understand that climate financing is a key driver of economic growth,” states EIB Vice President Robert de Groot. “We have to look at the bigger picture, which is that climate change is disrupting business and economic behaviours. We have a long track-record with Rabobank and DLL in terms of climate relevant financing, and hope that this facility can convince other financiers to make available more support for entrepreneurs developing more sustainable projects.”

    Carlo van Kemenade, Director Retail NL and Member of the Managing Board of Rabobank: “We are proud to build on the successful partnership with the EIB and the new launch of impact loans. Sustainability is an important pillar of Rabobank’s strategy. Clients are also very positive about this impact loan. The interest rate discount is both a reward for the impact they have as a leader in sustainability and an encouragement to continue on the path we have set with our clients.”

    “As a transition partner for a better world, DLL believes that sustainability is fundamental to long-term business success,” says Lara Yocarini, Member of the Managing Board, Rabobank, and CEO and Chair of the Executive Board of DLL. “The attractive funding from the European Investment Bank will enhance our ability to provide more accessible, affordable, and tailored leasing solutions, ultimately reducing barriers for our partners and customers to invest in more sustainable equipment and technology.”

    Background information:

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. It makes long-term finance available for sound investment in order to contribute towards EU policy goals. Over the last ten years, the EIB has made available more than €27 billion in financing for Dutch projects in various sectors, including research & development, transport, drinking water, healthcare, and SMEs.

    The EIB is the European Union’s bank; the only bank owned by and representing the interests of the European Union Member States, The Netherlands owns a 5,2% share of the EIB. It works closely with other EU institutions to implement EU policy and is the world’s largest multilateral borrower and lender. The EIB provides finance and expertise for sustainable investment projects that contribute to EU policy objectives. More than 90% of its activity is in Europe.

    About Rabobank

    Rabobank is an international financial services provider operating on the basis of cooperative principles. It offers retail banking, wholesale banking, private banking, leasing, and real estate services. As a cooperative bank, Rabobank puts customers’ interests first in its services. Rabobank is committed to being a leading customer-focused cooperative bank in the Netherlands and a leading food and agri bank worldwide. Rabobank employed 49,000 FTE per 31 December 2024. Rabobank Group is active in 37 countries.

    About DLL

    DLL is a global asset finance company for equipment and technology with a managed portfolio of more than EUR 47 billion. Founded in 1969 and headquartered in Eindhoven, the Netherlands, DLL provides financial solutions within the Agriculture, Construction, Energy Transition, Food, Healthcare, Industrial, Technology, Transportation, and Workplace industries in more than 25 countries. The company partners with equipment manufacturers, dealers, and distributors to enable easier access to equipment, technology, and software, to support business growth.

    DLL is committed to a more sustainable future for the environment and the communities in which it operates. Combining customer focus and industry knowledge, DLL provides financial solutions for the complete asset life cycle, including commercial finance, retail finance and used equipment finance. DLL is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rabobank Group.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Conflict of interest and political influence in CBAM expert groups – E-002769/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002769/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Barbara Bonte (PfE)

    In June 2025, German newspaper Die Welt revealed that several EU-funded NGOs, including Carbon Market Watch, the European Environmental Bureau (EEB) and ECOS, actively participated in the work of CBAM expert groups, which help shape policy regarding the carbon border adjustment mechanism. These organisations received substantial grants from the Commission and, in some cases, the funding accounted for more than a quarter of their total budget. At the same time, representatives of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have been excluded from these groups time and time again, despite the fact that they are directly concerned by the impact of CBAM. These practices raise serious questions about conflicts of interest and deliberate policy manipulation.

    • 1.Why did the Commission prioritise self-funded NGOs in the composition of CBAM expert groups, and on what grounds were SMEs structurally excluded?
    • 2.How does the Commission ensure impartiality when it funds organisations that simultaneously participate in the work of expert groups which are devising policy?
    • 3.Will the Commission provide full transparency on these practices and agree to an independent investigation into conflicts of interest and political influence in the composition and operation of CBAM expert groups?

    Submitted: 8.7.2025

    Last updated: 16 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Registration and ownership fees for combustion-engine cars as set out in the milestones of Poland’s national recovery plan – E-002626/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002626/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Anna Bryłka (PfE)

    The milestones laid out in the Annex to the Proposal for a Council Implementing Decision amending Implementing Decision (EU) (ST 9728/22 INIT; ST/9728/22 ADD 1) of 17 June 2022 on the approval of the assessment of the recovery and resilience plan for Poland introduce an obligation to pay a registration fee and ownership tax for emissions-related vehicles, in line with the ‘polluter pays’ principle.

    Considering the above, can the Commission clarify:

    • 1.How will Poland fulfil milestone E3G concerning the entry into force of a legal act introducing a registration fee for emissions-related vehicles in line with the ‘polluter pays principle’ when this enters into force in Poland?
    • 2.How will Poland fulfil milestone E4G concerning the entry into force of a legal act introducing an ownership tax on emissions-related vehicles in line with the ‘polluter pays principle’ when this enters into force in Poland?
    • 3.Has Poland negotiated the removal of milestones E3G and E4G with the Commission?

    Submitted: 30.6.2025

    Last updated: 16 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The systematic use of wet leasing by airlines and its impact on labour rights – P-002816/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002816/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Rosa Serrano Sierra (S&D), Idoia Mendia (S&D), Alicia Homs Ginel (S&D)

    Many airlines operating in the EU systematically subcontract flights during peak months (particularly in the summer) to low-cost carriers, who provide the aircraft and crew and are also responsible for maintenance- and insurance-related arrangements. Known as wet leasing, this practice has become standard among operators looking to cut down on labour and operating costs.

    Many reports indicate that wet-lease staff are working in precarious conditions, the result of false self-employment contracts and ambiguous labour agreements which circumvent national legislation and violate European social and labour protection standards. This practice is undermining working standards in the aviation sector and fostering unfair competition among its operators.

    There are also repercussions for the passengers, who pay for flights without knowing that they have been subcontracted and are not told in advance of the change in service arrangements, a state of affairs which violates their consumer rights and reduces market transparency.

    In the light of the above, and of the fact that national authorities are struggling to implement EU rules:

    • 1.Has the Commission detected a rise in the use of wet leasing in the EU?
    • 2.What measures will it enact to close the legal loopholes that enable companies to use this practice?
    • 3.Will wet leasing be addressed when Regulation (EC) No 1008/2008 is reviewed?

    Submitted: 10.7.2025

    Last updated: 16 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – AFET ad-hoc delegation to the United States of America – 21-24 July 2025 – Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    AFET hearing on EU-US political relations © Image used under the license from Adobe stock

    A delegation of the Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET), led by Chair David McAllister, will travel to Washington D.C. and Richmond, Virginia from 21 to 24 July 2025. This will be the Committee’s first official visit to the United States following last year’s elections on both sides of the Atlantic.

    During the trip, Members will discuss how to deepen transatlantic ties, enhance collective security, reinforce the shared commitment to supporting Ukraine, and tackle common challenges such as China’s expanding global influence and the situation in the Middle East. Insights gathered from the visit will inform the Committee’s ongoing work on the own initiative report on EU-US political relations.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Missions – CONT Mission to Bratislava (Slovakia), 26-28 May 2025 – Mission Report – 26-05-2025 – Committee on Budgetary Control

    Source: European Parliament

    CONT mission to Slovakia © Image used under license from Adobe Stock

    The purpose of this mission was to assess the situation in Slovakia related to ensuring the sound financial Management of EU funds and, more generally, to the protection of the EU’s financial interests.

    MIL OSI Europe News –