NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: New procedure for using escrow accounts in private home construction is being introduced

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    Innovations that in law will come into force on March 1, are aimed at protecting the rights of citizens and will contribute to increasing the transparency of the construction industry.

    Citizens (customers) using escrow accounts for payments during the construction of a private home will now have the same advantages as when purchasing an apartment in an apartment building under construction:

    — the contractor will be able to receive money from the escrow account only after registering the ownership of the constructed house (if for some reason the contractor does not fulfill his obligations, the citizen will receive the money back);

    — escrow accounts will be opened only inbanks with sufficient credit rating, and the funds for them will be insured up to 10 million rubles.

    Citizens will have the right to refuse to continue construction of a private home and return funds from the escrow account, provided that the contractor is paid for the materials used and the work performed.

    It will be possible to receive a preferential “Family Mortgage” for the construction of a private home only if funds for payment under the contract are placed in an escrow account. In this regard, the Bank of Russia expects that the mechanism will be in demand not only by citizens, but also by developers.

    Contractors working under the new rules will be required to publish in the Unified Information System for Housing Construction information about the legal entity, about projects of private houses that can be built, with the estimated cost and timeframes for the work, as well as about the authorized bank in which the escrow account is opened.

    Preview photo: ANNVIPS / Shutterstock / Fotodom

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

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

    HTTPS: //vv. KBR.ru/Press/Event/? ID = 23422

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial News: List of CS (taxonomy 6.1.0.1) excluded from verification

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Central Bank of Russia (2) –

    The taxonomy for the presentation of information on request (version 4.3.0.2) is intended for the presentation to the Bank of Russia of information submitted at the request of the Bank of Russia, and is to be used when sending the following information to the Bank of Russia:

    Submission of information from credit history bureaus to the Bank of Russia starting from the reporting date of 2022-06-30 (in accordance withThe procedure for preparing and submitting information from credit history bureaus to the Bank of Russia upon request). Submission of information by insurers to the Bank of Russia starting from the reporting date 2022-07-01 (for interperiod reporting dates, i.e. reporting dates other than 31.01, 28.02, 31.03, 30.04, 31.05, 30.06, 31.07, 31.08, 30.09, 31.10, 30.11, 31.12).

    Please note that for the purposes of submitting supervisory reports and accounting (financial) reports of credit history bureaus to the Bank of Russia (in accordance with Bank of Russia Instruction No. 5851-U dated 09.07.2021 “On the forms, procedure and terms for compiling and submitting reports of credit history bureaus to the Bank of Russia”), the Bank of Russia Final XBRL Taxonomy (version 4.3), published on the official website of the Bank of Russia, should continue to be used.

    For the purposes of submitting supervisory and statistical reports of insurers to the Bank of Russia (in accordance with Bank of Russia Instruction No. 5724-U dated 03.02.2021 “On the forms, terms and procedure for compiling and submitting reports of insurers to the Bank of Russia”), the Bank of Russia Final XBRL Taxonomy (version 4.2), published on the official website of the Bank of Russia, should continue to be used.

    For the purposes of submitting accounting (financial) statements of insurers to the Bank of Russia, the Bank of Russia Final XBRL Taxonomy (version 4.3), published on the official website of the Bank of Russia, should continue to be used.

    05/30/2022

    Accompanying documents for the module

    More Collapse –

    Methodological recommendations

    More Collapse –

    06/29/2022

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: The acceptance of applications from regions for subsidizing integrated territorial development projects has been completed

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Residential area in the Kirov region.

    Integrated development of territories (IDT) is a mechanism for accelerated involvement of abandoned or inefficiently used territories into circulation, primarily for housing construction. This tool for improving the urban environment, introduced in 2021, shows a steady increase in demand in the regions.

    “Integrated territorial development is a unique urban planning tool. More and more regions are showing interest in it and involving more and more sites for this, where it is planned to build housing, social, communal, road infrastructure facilities, as well as resettlement of dilapidated and emergency housing. Now, on the instructions of the President, regions can receive direct subsidies for the construction of facilities within the framework of integrated territorial development. The program includes 37 entities. These are regions with a low level of budget provision, as well as entities for which individual socio-economic development programs are being developed. Earlier, the Government approved the rules for the provision and distribution of subsidies for the implementation of KRT projects. Today, the acceptance of applications from regions has been completed,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    The Deputy Prime Minister noted that, on the instructions of the President of Russia, 120 billion rubles will be allocated to the regions for these purposes by 2030. This work is being carried out under the federal project “Housing” of the national project “Infrastructure for Life”.

    “The main criterion for providing subsidies is the commissioning of housing within the framework of the KRT project. The funds can be used for the construction or reconstruction of educational, healthcare, housing and communal services and transport infrastructure facilities, as well as for connecting capital construction projects to heat supply, water supply and sanitation networks,” said First Deputy Minister of Construction and Housing and Communal Services Alexander Lomakin.

    To qualify for subsidies, regional authorities submitted packages of documents containing decisions on integrated territorial development, an agreement or contracts on integrated territorial development with the obligations of the subject of the Russian Federation to implement projects, as well as confirmation of housing construction plans, such as permits for the construction of multi-apartment buildings.

    The list of 37 regions that can apply for support for the implementation of KRT projects includes the city of Sevastopol, Bryansk, Ivanovo, Kirov, Kostroma, Kurgan, Oryol, Penza, Pskov, Tambov, Kherson and Zaporozhye regions, the republics of Adygea, Altai, Buryatia, Dagestan, Ingushetia, Kalmykia, Crimea, Mari El, Mordovia, Sakha (Yakutia), North Ossetia – Alania, Tuva, Khakassia, Kabardino-Balkarian, Karachay-Cherkess, Chechen, Chuvash republics, Altai, Transbaikal, Kamchatka, Stavropol territories, the Jewish Autonomous Region, Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: The law on escrow accounts for individual housing construction comes into force on March 1

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The law on escrow accounts for individual housing construction comes into force on March 1.

    Starting from March 1, 2025, a law will come into force that provides for the possibility of using the escrow account mechanism in individual housing construction (IHC). This mechanism protects citizens’ finances from unscrupulous construction organizations and guarantees the safety of transactions in the construction of houses. This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.

    “We are noting the growing interest of citizens in individual housing construction. In particular, this is confirmed by the consistently high level of individual housing construction in recent years. Last year, 62.3 million square meters of individual houses were commissioned, which was a record figure in the entire history of Russia. Our task is to support people in their desire to live in their own home. First of all, it is important to provide land plots with the necessary engineering, social and transport infrastructure. In addition, it is necessary to guarantee the security of transactions. Thus, from March 1, a law comes into force that provides for the use of an escrow account mechanism for individual housing construction, which has already proven itself in the construction of apartment buildings. I am confident that such a measure will increase the reliability of individual housing construction and citizens’ trust in this market,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    The Deputy Prime Minister noted that escrow accounts ensure the safety of citizens’ investments throughout the entire housing construction process. Buyers can be sure that their money will be sent to the developer only after all obligations have been fulfilled. Thus, in the event of problems with construction, citizens will get their money back.

    According to the new mechanism, construction of houses will be carried out by contractors, including using ready-made house kits, on territories owned, leased or used free of charge by private individuals.

    Organizations planning to carry out their activities within the framework of the new mechanism must post information about themselves, about the residential buildings they are building, about the bank through which clients’ escrow accounts are processed (if targeted loans are used for construction), as well as about concluded contracts in the unified information system for housing construction.

    “Thanks to this, it will be easier for citizens to evaluate the work of a developer, and easier to choose a construction company based on open data,” added the Deputy Prime Minister.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man sentenced for killing Dubai chef, Mussie Imnetu

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been jailed for murder after he was captured on CCTV heading to a nightclub immediately after the violent attack.

    Detectives were able to use the footage alongside DNA from a pair of sunglasses dropped at the scene to prove that Omar Wilson, 31, was responsible for killing Mussie Imnetu.

    Wilson, (19.03.93) of Napier Road, Leytonstone, was sentenced on Friday, 28 February to 17.5 years after being found guilty of murder at an earlier hearing at the Old Bailey on Thursday, 20 February.

    Mussie, who was 41 and visiting the UK from Dubai where he lived and worked, was found unconscious with a head injury in Queensway, W2 at 23:22hrs on Monday, 26 August 2024.

    Officers were on the scene in seconds and provided emergency first aid until paramedics arrived. Mussie was taken to hospital where, despite the best efforts of medical staff, he sadly died on 30 August 2024.

    Wilson claimed that he attacked Mussie in self-defence, however he was found guilty of murder by a jury majority.

    Detective Chief Inspector Brian Howie from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, who led the investigation, said: “Our thoughts very much remain with Mussie’s family and friends in Dubai, Sweden and London. Mussie was a loving husband, father, son and a respected chef. He was in London for a few days to help train his colleagues and went out that evening to enjoy the post Notting Hill Carnival atmosphere, where tragically he was violently assaulted.”

    After the attack Wilson quickly left the area, actively avoiding police officers as he did so. He then travelled across London to attend a nightclub on Gaunt Street, SE1. This was only about an hour-and-a-half after his attack on Mussie.

    Although Wilson fled the scene, he dropped his sunglasses and house and car keys. Officers were able to recover his DNA from the sunglasses, and the keys were a perfect fit for his house and car. Careful analysis by officers of his phone usage, placed Wilson in the area of Queensway at the time of the murder.

    Officers were also able to piece together a puzzle of CCTV which showed the attack and Wilson’s subsequent journey to the nightclub on Gaunt Street.

    The jury were also shown messages sent by Wilson to friends in in the aftermath of the attack. In one of them he said: “There’s a monster in me … and it’s just like sometimes it comes out. And I think I’ve messed up now … and everything’s finished” and “I’ve f***** up … I crossed the line and went overboard. I don’t think I can come back from this mistake … I’m going jail in the morning”.

    In another he said that “I did the hands ting…finished one guy man” and was told by a friend to “get a solicitor and use your ADHD”.

    Wilson was arrested on Wednesday, 28 August 2024 and charged the following day.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: “Fully committed to an anti-discriminatory police service.”

    Source: United Kingdom National Police Chiefs Council

    An update one year on from the Angiolini Inquiry Part One

    The Angiolini Inquiry was established to investigate how an off-duty police officer was able to abduct, rape and murder a member of the public. The findings and recommendations of this investigation were presented in part 1 in February 2024.

    Policing accepted all recommendations made and over the last year much work has been ongoing to develop and take forward these recommendations, building the necessary steps to embed them in processes and culture.

    Recommendation 14 focussed on “Positive culture and elimination of misconduct or criminality often excused as ‘banter’”. The Inquiry stated that every police force should commit publicly to being an anti-sexist, anti-misogynistic, anti-racist organisation. It was agreed by all police chiefs in England, Scotland and Wales that we commit to a police service that is anti-discriminatory, placing inclusion at the heart of culture and today this statement is underlined.

    National Police Chiefs’ Council Chair, Chief Constable Gavin Stephens said:

    “I stand with my colleagues across policing to say we are fully committed to a police service that is anti-discriminatory and we continue working hard to eradicate sexism, racism, misogyny and discrimination in all forms.

    “Actions speak louder than words and while a statement can be incredibly powerful, we know that what is more important is how we embed an anti-discriminatory culture. We are driving out behaviour that does not meet the high standards of integrity the public and colleagues deserve and creating an environment where everyone is supported and empowered.

    “This commitment to being anti-discriminatory represents a line in the sand while building on the valuable work ongoing across policing to address poor culture and ensure our workforce meets the high standards our communities expect and deserve.

    “The Angiolini Inquiry part one was an urgent call for action and I know I speak for everyone in policing when I say we heard that call and are fully committed to bringing lasting, impactful change for future generations.”

    Much progress has been made against the recommendations set out in February 2024 with a robust governance structure managing the national and local response and regular reporting back to the Everard family and the Inquiry team.

    Key updates include:
    • Provisions made for stringent information sharing between police forces and the armed services when individuals are transferring or moving onto new organisations.
    • Vetting reform work ongoing to review the processes and procedures in vetting, reviewing robust measures and checks to ensure the integrity of policing’s workforce.
    • A working group, supported by leading academics, is examining the use of psychometric testing in vetting as another means of identifying any cause for concern.
    • Best practice and learning is being shared around in-person interviews and home visits for police officer applicants with pilots in place and more being developed.
    • The NPCC and Home Office are working in partnership to develop a continuous integrity screening solution which will be piloted in late 2025. The purpose of the solution is to ensure police officers, staff and volunteers are regularly and automatically checked through the Police National Database, highlighting any issues or changes so they can be addressed as required.
    • Publication of the revised vetting approved professional practice
      • o This encompasses a number of changes which reflect many of the recommendations around vetting, strengthening the process and reframing vetting as an ongoing process throughout the careers of officers and staff, rather than a moment in time.
    • Nationally and locally, reporting mechanisms have been strengthened so that the policing workforce is empowered and supported in reporting any concerns about colleagues.
    • Many police forces have implemented policies around dealing with indecent exposure incidents and the College of Policing has introduced a detailed new training package on non-contact sexual offences, placing victims at the heart of investigations.
    • Policing must be an inclusive and desirable employer for everyone and the Angiolini Inquiry made recommendations particularly around supporting women in policing. Significant work is ongoing to look at how women can be better supported with a new ‘Family Friendly’ policy developed and a uniform review in progress.
    National Policing Culture and Inclusion Strategy 2025-2030

    The College of Policing and the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) have developed a five-year culture and inclusion strategy for policing.

    The strategy sets the vision for policing to have a representative workforce that is a trusted profession, demonstrating the highest levels of integrity, fairness and respect towards each other and the public we serve.

    The strategy is available for police forces to implement from 1 April 2025. It establishes new standards focusing on two interconnected priorities: evolving police organisations and improved working with the public. As part of the strategy there will be practical guidance and tools available to support forces to create lasting cultural change.

    The strategy will be owned by a chief officer in each force who will maintain sign-off and oversight of force performance on an annual basis.

    The NPCC and College of Policing will work with His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) to enable effective scrutiny of progress against this strategy and the culture and inclusion standard for policing.

    To report corruption or serious abuse within policing

    To report corruption or serious abuse within policing, please contact the Police Anti-Corruption and Abuse Reporting Service, run by the independent charity Crimestoppers. The service gives the public an anonymous route to report information about a police officer, member of staff or volunteer, who they believe are corrupt or committing serious abuse.

    Contact the service by calling 0800 085 0000 or via the Crimestoppers’ website. For more information about the service, click here Police Anti-Corruption and Abuse Reporting Service | Police.uk

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Criminal ringleader and nine associates arrested after killing a witness

    Source: Europol

    Europol’s Operational Task Force, which is dedicated to targeting criminal networks in the Balkans, had identified the network’s leader as a high-value target. After a major crackdown in May 2023, which led to the arrest of 37 members, a branch of the criminal network remained active. It was led by a national of Bosnia and Herzegovina, who was incarcerated at…

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom partners with 21 Brazilian state governors to protect the environment, cut harmful pollution

    Source: US State of California 2

    Feb 27, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – California and a consortium of 21 Brazilian states are partnering together to combat pollution and foster sustainable economic growth. 

    Governor Gavin Newsom and Governor Renato Casagrande of the Brazilian state of Espírito Santo signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today that establishes a four-year partnership between California and the Brazilian consortium of states leading on environmental protections, Consórcio Brasil Verde (CBV).

    Together with these 21 Brazilian states, California is committed to advancing a bold, collaborative action plan that tackles pollution, protects public health and safety, and creates good-paying jobs.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    This collaboration encompasses clean air, transportation and energy; adaptation; forest management; and more. The full text of the MOU is available here. R20 Regions of Climate Action – an organization founded by former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to support subnational climate work – played a key role in supporting this MOU.

    “This is a historic opportunity to join efforts and share knowledge between Brazilian states and California, which is a reference in combating climate change,” said Governor Renato Casagrande. “The partnership not only reaffirms our commitment to sustainability but also highlights the importance of active participation from everyone in building solutions that benefit our planet.”

    How we got here: California met its 2020 climate target six years ahead of schedule thanks to world-leading climate policies and partnerships across the U.S. and around the world, created to share best practices and support cooperation on climate work.

    • Last year, Governor Newsom welcomed a new international partnership with South Korea’s Gyeonggi Province to collaborate on climate and economic efforts. Also last year, Governor Newsom welcomed delegations from Sweden and Norway and signed renewed climate partnerships with the two governments.
    • In 2023, Governor Newsom led a California delegation to China, where California signed five MOUs – with China’s National Development and Reform Commission, the provinces of Guangdong and Jiangsu, and the municipalities of Beijing, and Shanghai. The trip also resulted in a first-of-its-kind declaration by China and California to cooperate on climate action like aggressively cutting greenhouse gas emissions, transitioning away from fossil fuels, and developing clean energy.
    • Also in 2023, California signed a MOU with the Chinese province of Hainan, as well as with Australia.
    • In 2022, California signed Memorandums of Cooperation with Canada, New Zealand and Japan, as well as Memorandums of Understanding with China and the Netherlands, to tackle the climate crisis. The Governor also joined with Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia to recommit the region to climate action.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Feb 26, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced multiple clemency actions. He granted pardons in three cases. He also sent multiple clemency cases to the Board of Parole Hearings, initiating the process for granting clemency in fifteen cases. He also sent two…

    Feb 26, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom today released a new economic vision for California’s future with a bold plan, realized locally. The unveiling comes alongside the announcement of more than $245 million in investments to help support workers statewide,…

    Feb 25, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom today issued a statement in response to the Trump administration’s announcement that it had released more than $315 million of obligated money to create new water storage at the future Sites Reservoir and at the existing San…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Murder investigation launched following death of woman in Ealing

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A murder investigation has been launched following the death of a 45-year-old woman in Ealing.

    On Friday, 28 February police were called to a property on Jubilee Road, Perivale at 01:40hrs following reports of a disturbance.

    Officers attended the scene alongside the London Ambulance Service who worked hard to save the woman but despite their best efforts she was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

    Her family has been made aware of her death and are currently being supported by specialist officers.

    A 49-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder at the scene, he currently remains in police custody at a west London police station.

    Detective Superintendent Rebecca Reeves, who leads policing in Ealing, said: “I am deeply saddened by this incident, and I know residents in our local area will be too. We have a suspect in our custody and although our investigation is in its early stages, we believe this man was known to the victim.

    “We have secured a scene and this will be in place for the remainder of the day, so our officers can obtain crucial evidence for their investigation.

    “Our neighbourhood officers will also be present in the area throughout the day – if any local residents have concerns please speak to them. We are there not only to support our investigation team but also there to support you as a community.

    “If you know anything that may help us, then please come forward to police by calling 101 stating CAD438/28FEB.”

    A special post mortem will be held in due course – the cause of death is currently unknown.

    Enquiries into the circumstances are ongoing.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: North Macedonia formally accepts Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies

    Source: World Trade Organization

    DG Okonjo-Iweala said: “I’m grateful for North Macedonia’s formal acceptance of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies. While a landlocked country, North Macedonia’s acceptance demonstrates its commitment to the multilateral trading system and the WTO, and underscores all members’ shared interest in responsible fisheries resource management, ocean sustainability, and food security. This acceptance provides further momentum for the entry into force of this important agreement for people and the planet.”

    Mr. Bilali said: “By joining this agreement, North Macedonia reaffirms its dedication to the conservation of marine resources and the fight against harmful subsidies that contribute to overfishing.”

    North Macedonia’s instrument of acceptance brings to 91 the total number of WTO members that have formally accepted the Agreement. Twenty more formal acceptances are needed for the Agreement to come into effect. The Agreement will enter into force upon acceptance by two-thirds of the membership.

    Adopted by consensus at the WTO’s 12th Ministerial Conference (MC12), held in Geneva on 12-17 June 2022, the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies sets new, binding, multilateral rules to curb harmful subsidies, which are a key factor in the widespread depletion of the world’s fish stocks. In addition, the Agreement recognizes the needs of developing economies and least-developed countries and establishes a fund to provide technical assistance and capacity building to help them implement the obligations.

    The Agreement prohibits subsidies for illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, for fishing overfished stocks, and for fishing on the unregulated high seas.

    Members also agreed at MC12 to continue negotiations on outstanding issues, with a view to adopting additional provisions that would further enhance the disciplines of the Agreement.

    The full text of the Agreement can be accessed here. The list of members that have deposited their instruments of acceptance is available here. Information for members on how to accept the Protocol of Amendment is available here.

    Share

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: European Consortium Launches PQC4eMRTD Project to Enhance Security of Electronic Passports in the Quantum Era

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: European Consortium Launches PQC4eMRTD Project to Enhance Security of Electronic Passports in the Quantum Era

    Munich, Germany – February 28, 2025 – A significant European initiative, the PQC4eMRTD (Post-Quantum Cryptography for electronic Machine-Readable Travel Documents) project, has officially commenced today. Funded by the European Union under the Digital Europe Programme, the two-year project aims to address the security challenges posed by the rise of quantum computing, focusing on the standardization and promotion of quantum-resistant (QR) cryptographic protocols for electronic machine-readable travel documents (eMRTDs).

    Quantum computing is advancing rapidly with substantial investments from both public and private sectors. By 2026, the number of quantum bits (qubits) is expected to grow tenfold compared to the roughly 400 qubits achieved at the end of 2022, dramatically expanding the processing capacity of quantum computers and enabling them to solve increasingly complex problems. ​ These advancements pose a threat to classical cryptography, making it essential to develop QR standards and infrastructures.

    Represented by Eurosmart, the European digital security industry emphasizes the urgent need to transition to QR infrastructures, particularly for eMRTDs such as electronic passports, which are vulnerable to quantum threats. The PQC4eMRTD project aims to support this transition by advocating for the development and promotion of standardization in QR cryptographic protocols.

    The project is coordinated by Infineon Technologies AG from Germany and includes key partners Thales and CryptoNext Security from France, the Barcelona Supercomputing Center from Spain, and the Institute for Comparative Law at the Faculty of Law in Ljubljana, Slovenia. The PQC4eMRTD project will focus on pushing existing PQC research results towards international standardization working groups to facilitate the adoption of QR protocols.

    Additionally, the PQC4eMRTD project will promote cooperation across different sectors transitioning to PQC by addressing common challenges and fostering synergies. It aims to provide a detailed blueprint for Europe’s transition to PQC, serving as a model for other regions. By actively engaging and supporting the broader European PQC community through knowledge sharing and collaborative initiatives, the project ensures that all stakeholders can benefit from the latest research and developments.

    Stakeholders, including industry experts, policymakers, and academic researchers, are invited to join this vital project. Their participation and support are crucial as the consortium works towards securing the future of electronic travel documents and digital identities against emerging quantum threats.

    “We at Thales are committed to driving innovation and ensuring the highest level of security for electronic documents and digital identities”, commented Nathalie Gosset, VP Identity & Biometric Solutions at Thales. “Our involvement in the post-quantum cryptography European consortium underscores our proactive approach to safeguarding sensitive data and critical systems against emerging quantum threats. By collaborating with industry leaders, we aim to responsibly anticipate and address future challenges, paving the way for a secure and resilient digital ecosystem.”

    For more information about the project and opportunities for collaboration, please contact the respective partner organizations. Together, we can build a secure, quantum-resistant future for electronic travel documents.

    About the PQC4eMRTD Project

    The PQC4eMRTD project is a European initiative aimed at enhancing the security of electronic machine-readable travel documents (eMRTDs) by promoting the standardization of quantum-resistant cryptographic protocols. Funded by the European Union under the Digital Europe Programme, the project brings together leading European organizations to address the challenges posed by quantum computing and ensure the future security of digital identities and eMRTDs.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Global: Failure to consult Indigenous Peoples on future pandemics will further harm children’s education

    Source: Amnesty International –

    The failure of governments around the world to consult Indigenous Peoples on Covid-19 school closures and other emergency pandemic responses violated their rights, as children continue to feel the effects five years after the first global lockdown, Amnesty International said in a new report today.

    Indigenous leaders interviewed by Amnesty International for its report What If Indigenous Consent Is Not Respected?, testified to sharp and sustained increases in post-pandemic absenteeism and school dropout rates, of more than 80 per cent in some cases, among Indigenous children in more than 10 countries. Indigenous leaders and activists also voiced concerns that the often discriminatory, desultory or non-existent response by authorities to the educational needs of Indigenous children during the pandemic worsened long-standing inequities faced by Indigenous communities – with Indigenous girls and children with disabilities particularly disadvantaged. Going forward, the organization is calling for Indigenous Peoples to be consulted during future pandemics.  

    The Indigenous leaders and activists we spoke to felt completely ignored by governments during the pandemic.

    Chris Chapman, Amnesty’s researcher on Indigenous rights

    “The Indigenous leaders and activists we spoke to felt completely ignored by governments during the pandemic, which had an enduring and damaging impact on their rights and prospects,” said Chris Chapman, Amnesty International’s Researcher on Indigenous Rights.

    “They said that remote learning solutions were often unavailable to Indigenous children. Those in rural areas, where Indigenous communities often lacked devices, internet connections, electricity and the technological knowledge or capacity to participate in virtual classes or remote learning, were worst affected.”

    When lower-tech solutions such as printed materials were distributed to other groups, Indigenous communities in several different countries said they were passed over, ignored, or asked to pay for them.

    Indigenous campaigner Sylvia Kokunda said: “For the most part these materials were distributed by the local government, since it can be easier for the village chairperson to identify the people in this community. However, local officials would not give the materials to these Batwa people, they would give only to their people.”

    Radio or television-based educational broadcasting during the pandemic was often unavailable in Indigenous languages. An Ogiek activist said that although Sogoot FM 97.1, an Ogiek language radio station, was used to reach the community to inform them about Covid-19 and its impacts, it was not used for school coursework.  

    The report is based on data and more than 80 interviews or collected responses that Amnesty International gathered to explore how Indigenous students around the world were impacted by pandemic-related school closures, including in Democratic Republic of Congo, India, Kenya, Mexico, Nepal, Russia, Taiwan and Uganda. There are 476 million Indigenous people worldwide in more than 90 countries, belonging to 5,000 different Indigenous groups and speaking more than 4,000 languages.

    Technology, discrimination and dropout rates

    Where Indigenous families had limited access to technology for remote learning during the pandemic, boys were often prioritized.

    According to Indigenous women activists from Nepal,“If some families have a mobile, then only one or two will use it. And if there are more children in the house, one has to sacrifice their education. When it comes to the sacrifice, the girls are sacrificed more.”

    Even if Indigenous students had devices capable of being used for remote learning, their families were sometimes unable to afford sufficient data. In addition, remote teaching was rarely provided in Indigenous languages.

    Children with learning difficulties or disabilities which required specialist teaching, for instance through use of sign language or braille, were often excluded, including among Indigenous communities.

    Interviewees in many states said there was often little or no government monitoring, or consideration of the effectiveness of alternative learning initiatives for Indigenous communities. Information on how to access education when schools closed – and they stayed shut for more than 18 months in some countries – was rarely provided in Indigenous languages.

    “Boys who had begun working as motorcycle taxi drivers to earn money for their families also dropped out.

    Indigenous activist from Kenya

    Students with little or no access to education during the pandemic often worked instead, and never returned to schools when they reopened. Those who did return when schools reopened, often found that they had fallen behind their classmates. If they were unwilling to retake a year, or could not be supported financially, they too dropped out.

    In Kenya, the majority of dropouts of Ogiek students were girls, especially girls who got pregnant during Covid-19 or were subjected to early marriage. However, it affected boys too. An Indigenous activist from Kenya said: “Boys between the ages of 12 and 18 who had begun working in jobs such as motorcycle taxi drivers or farm workers to earn money for themselves and their families also dropped out.”

    Some schools across many states never reopened, further reducing access to education for Indigenous children, Indigenous activists reported.

    Asked to reply to Amnesty’s findings, the Mexican government stated that it responded to the “unprecedented challenge of Covid-19″ by working with Indigenous schools and teachers to roll out a set of measures including distributing materials in five Indigenous languages, sometimes in printed formats where access to internet or devices was restricted, developing new digital educational materials, and capacity-building for schools and parents to use digital platforms.

    Recommendations

    “Significantly more resources are now required to safeguard, restore and improve the educational opportunities and rights of Indigenous communities,” Chris Chapman said.

    “States must work with Indigenous communities to immediately restore and enhance the right to education for all Indigenous children including a focus on re-enrolling Indigenous girls, and Indigenous students with disabilities.”  

    Alongside the report, Amnesty International has shared a guide for researchers who wish to investigate the extent to which the human right to participate effectively in decision-making has been violated, especially when it comes to Indigenous communities.  

    “Governments must consult with Indigenous Peoples on Covid-19 response measures and other pandemic and emergency response measures, otherwise they risk violating their right to consultation, and their right to give or withhold their consent to decisions affecting them. Our study highlights the risks of failing to take into account the realities, cultures and rights of Indigenous Peoples,” said Chris Chapman.

    “While our report sets out the devastating impact of this lack of inclusion, it’s hoped that Amnesty’s guide will ensure Indigenous people are included in discussions that affect them in the future. Every child has the right to free, high-quality primary education. States must therefore ensure that no child is left behind.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi meets Russian Federation Security Council secretary

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

    BEIJING, Feb. 28 — Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Sergei Shoigu, secretary of the Russian Federation Security Council, here on Friday.

    Noting that China and Russia are friendly neighbors and true friends, Xi said he and President Vladimir Putin have communicated twice this year, making overarching plans for the development of China-Russia relations and having in-depth exchanges on a series of major international and regional issues.

    He said the two sides should maintain close communication at all levels to fully implement the consensus reached between the two heads of state and promote permanent good-neighborliness and friendship, comprehensive strategic coordination and mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries.

    Shoigu conveyed President Putin’s cordial greetings to President Xi, saying that President Putin highly values the sincere friendship and close contact with President Xi.

    The relations between Russia and China have reached an unprecedented high level and do not target any third party, Shoigu said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Three Federal Treasury deposit auctions will take place on 28.02.2025

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    Application selection parameters
    Date of the selection of applications 02.28.2025
    Unique identifier of the application selection 22025042
    Deposit currency rubles
    Type of funds funds of the single treasury account
    Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units 1,288,000
    Placement period, in days 4
    Date of deposit 02.28.2025
    Refund date 04.03.2025
    Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating) Fix
    Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum 20.05
    Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds –
    Minimum spread, % per annum –
    Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special) Urgent
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units 1,000
    Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs. 5
    Application selection form (open or closed) Open
    Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
    Venue for the selection of applications PAO Moscow Exchange
    Applications accepted: from 09:30 to 09:40
    Preliminary applications: from 09:30 to 09:35
    Applications in competition mode: from 09:35 to 09:40
    Formation of a consolidated register of applications: from 09:40 to 09:50
    Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful: from 09:40 to 10:00
    Submission of an offer to credit institutions to conclude a bank deposit agreement: from 10:00 to 10:50
    Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions: from 10:00 to 10:50
    Deposit transfer time In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n
    Application selection parameters
    Date of the selection of applications 02.28.2025
    Unique identifier of the application selection 22025043
    Deposit currency rubles
    Type of funds funds of the single treasury account
    Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units 50,000
    Placement period, in days 182
    Date of deposit 02.28.2025
    Refund date 08/29/2025
    Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating) Flotting
    Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum –
    Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds Ruonmds
    Minimum spread, % per annum 0.00
    Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special) Special
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units 1,000
    Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs. 5
    Application selection form (open or closed) Open
    Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
    Venue for the selection of applications PAO Moscow Exchange
    Applications accepted: from 12:00 to 12:10
    Preliminary applications: from 12:00 to 12:05
    Applications in competition mode: from 12:05 to 12:10
    Formation of a consolidated register of applications: from 12:10 to 12:20
    Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful: from 12:10 to 12:30
    Submission of an offer to credit institutions to conclude a bank deposit agreement: from 12:30 to 13:20
    Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions: from 12:30 to 13:20
    Deposit transfer time In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n

    RUONmDS = RUONIA – DS, where

    RUONIA – the value of the indicative weighted rate of overnight ruble loans (deposits) RUONIA, expressed in hundredths of a percent, published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued. In the absence of a RUONIA rate value published on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued, the last of the published RUONIA rate values is taken into account.

    DS – discount – a value expressed in hundredths of a percent and rounded (according to the rules of mathematical rounding) to two decimal places, calculated by multiplying the value of the Key Rate of the Bank of Russia by the value of the required reserve ratio for other liabilities of credit institutions for banks with a universal license, non-bank credit institutions (except for long-term ones) in the currency of the Russian Federation, valid on the date for which interest is accrued, and published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet.

    Application selection parameters
    Date of the selection of applications 02.28.2025
    Unique identifier of the application selection 22025044
    Deposit currency rubles
    Type of funds funds of the single treasury account
    Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units 10,000
    Placement period, in days 4
    Date of deposit 02.28.2025
    Refund date 04.03.2025
    Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating) Fix
    Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum 20.05
    Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds –
    Minimum spread, % per annum –
    Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special) Urgent
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units 1,000
    Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs. 5
    Application selection form (open or closed) Open
    Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
    Venue for the selection of applications PAO Moscow Exchange
    Applications accepted: from 18:30 to 18:40
    Preliminary applications: from 18:30 to 18:35
    Applications in competition mode: from 18:35 to 18:40
    Formation of a consolidated register of applications: from 18:40 to 18:50
    Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful: from 18:40 to 18:50
    Submission of an offer to credit institutions to conclude a bank deposit agreement: from 18:50 to 19:30
    Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions: from 18:50 to 19:30
    Deposit transfer time In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n

    Contact information for media 7 (495) 363-3232Pr@moex.kom

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

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

    HTTPS: //VVV. MEEX.K.M.M.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 28 February 2025 Donors making a difference: community engagement to promote, provide and protect the health and well-being of all

    Source: World Health Organisation

    WHO defines community engagement as “a process of developing relationships that enable stakeholders to work together to address health-related issues and promote well-being to achieve positive health impact and outcomes”.

    WHO’s partners and donors support the Organization to work in this area as there are undeniable benefits to engaging communities in promoting health and well-being. At its core, community engagement enables changes in behaviour, environments, policies, programmes and practices within communities.

    Below are some country stories that demonstrate the breadth of community engagement work that WHO conducts, resulting in more positive health outcomes for the people in these communities than before.

    Uganda trains district health workers on community-based approach to Ebola

    Uganda trains Community Health workers from Kole, Mukono and Wakiso districts on community-based approach to Ebola. Photo by: WHO/Sadat Kamugisha 

    Uganda’s Ministry of Health conducted a training on Ebola disease detection and management for Community Health Workers representatives from Kole, Wakiso, and Mukono districts. Participants focused on multi-sectoral action to safeguard communities from emerging zoonotic diseases with pandemic potential such as Ebola.

    Communities play an integral role in raising awareness, supporting case identification, tracing contacts, and maintaining essential health services. The emphasis on collaboration with local leaders, volunteers, and health workers is vital for effective responses to public health emergencies. Building on lessons learned from past health crises, Uganda has already made substantial advancements in emergency preparedness.

    The three-day event was supported by WHO, and the UK Public Health Rapid Support Team (UK-PHRST), which is a UK aid project funded by the Department of Health and Social care. The community protection approach is a central component of WHO’s new Health emergency prevention, preparedness, response, and resilience framework.

    Visit the WHO/Uganda web page to read the full story.

    Community engagement for access to health services in Lao PDR

    CONNECT team members discuss community health priorities in Khammouane Province, Lao PDR. Photo by: WHO/Enric Catala

    Developed by the Lao Ministry of Health and Ministry of Home Affairs in response to COVID-19 with the support of WHO and partners, the CONNECT initiative enhances local governance and community engagement for equitable access to public services, particularly health.

    Supported by USAID, the Australian Government and Luxembourg, as of July 2024, CONNECT reached over 230 villages across 10 provinces (including Vientiane Capital) and support already in-place for expansion to all provinces.

    An external evaluation of implementation in 12 villages found an increase in essential service uptake for maternal health and improved attitudes towards using primary care; increased trust in health providers; increased sense of ownership of health at community level; and increased vaccination uptake and confidence, especially among ethnic groups and previously unreached communities.

    Visit the WHO/WPRO web page to read the full story.

    Côte d’Ivoire community radios boost public awareness on mpox outbreak

    Community radios, pillar of the fight against mpox. Photo by: WHO/Toiherou De Marfere Sidibe

    A network of community radio stations, known as Radio Santé, comprises 350 stations in West African, with over half based in Côte d’Ivoire. Launched in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic with major support from WHO, Radio Santé has become a preferred channel for disseminating reliable, verified health information. It brings together nearly 1000 journalists and communications specialists.

    Radio Santé is an interactive and accessible tool for mobilizing communities around health issues, throughout Côte d’Ivoire and across borders. Health authorities use Radio Santé to counter rumours and misinformation, and to strengthen community engagement, which is crucial to curbing the spread of diseases such as mpox.

    After WHO declared mpox as a public health emergency of international concern in August 2024, Radio Santé devoted its health talk show to mpox. 185 Ivorian community radio stations have since broadcasted messages on mpox. Over 50 programmes have been produced and broadcast in eight countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Chad, Guinea, Mali, Niger, Senegal and Togo.

    Visit the WHO/Côte d’Ivoire web page to read the full story.

    Bolivia strengthens social participation in health for indigenous population

    Indigenous organizations are clear about their requests. They want free and equitable access to health care, an improved indigenous health network, incorporation of traditional medicine, and the consideration of the indigenous population’s culture, customs, and practices. Photo by: WHO/PAHO

    The Ministry of Health and Sports of Bolivia is engaging indigenous populations in community participation processes, creating space for them to discuss health topics, share concerns, and contribute to a health improvement plan.

    The meaningful inclusion and engagement of indigenous populations in health policy planning, taking into account the social determinants of health, is critical to ensure context-specific interventions, uptake of guidance and services, and positive health outcomes for all.

    PAHO/WHO, through the Universal Health Coverage Partnership, has supported the Ministry of Health and Sports of Bolivia in this endeavour since 2021. The UHC Partnership operates in over 125 countries, representing over 3 billion people. It is supported and funded by Belgium, Canada, the European Union, France, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg, Japan, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and WHO

    Visit the PAHO/AMRO web page to read the full story.

    Weaving hope in Honduras: the community wisdom that saves lives

    Maternal health in Honduras Hermelinda shares her experience. Photo by: WHO/Honduras

    In Honduras, high rates of maternal and neonatal mortality are often the result of multiple factors, including socioeconomic barriers, lack of access to adequate healthcare services, gaps in education and awareness about maternal and child health, and cultural differences.

    Hermelinda Hernández, who is familiar with the local practices and beliefs of her community and also recognizes the value of professional medical interventions, participated in the “Knowledge Dialogues Methodology” workshop organized by the Honduran Ministry of Health with the support of PAHO/WHO and funded by Global Affairs Canada.

    The workshop aimed to promote mutual understanding between midwives and healthcare providers to reach agreements that improve the health of women, and adolescent girls in situations of vulnerability within the community.

    Visit the PAHO/AMRO web page to read the full story.

    Grassroots heroes in Cambodia

    Mrs Say Sa with her Baby in Cambodia’s Principal of Health Centre Kok Chuk. Photo by: Aforative media

    In Cambodia, village chiefs stepped up to create a healthier future for their communities. In villages across 25 provinces, 2000 village chiefs and nearly 5400 village health support groups received trainings, organised by the Ministry of Heath with support from WHO and the EU.

    This equipped the chiefs with knowledge and skills necessary to control transmission of COVID-19, influenza, and other respiratory diseases, and collaborate with authorities more closely on health issues facing their communities.

    The chiefs then shared their newfound knowledge during community dialogues, which then transformed how community members adopted healthier practices. Empowered with accurate information, communities embraced protective measures during times of high COVID-19 transmission.

    Visit the WHO/WPRO web page to read the full story, and more on EU’s support to WHO in ASEAN region.

    Bolstering public awareness to help curb mpox spread in Uganda

    Dr Kenneth Kabali, WHO Field Coordinator for Busoga Sub-region sensitizes the community on mpox in Mayuge district, Eastern Uganda. Photo by: WHO/Abdu Mutwalibu Seguya

    Uganda witnessed an upsurge in mpox cases, with laboratory-confirmed cases increasing from 24 as of 21 September to 413 as of 7 November 2024. Health authorities, with support from WHO and partners, worked closely with communities to raise awareness about the dangers of the disease and how to stay safe, and address misinformation and stigma.

    The risk communication and community engagement team reached more than 100 fishmongers, fisherfolk, boda boda (motorbike taxi) riders, 8000 school children and 30 sex workers. In addition, 500 teachers in the district have been oriented on mpox.

    WHO is also using mass media to expand the reach of mpox response communication. With funding from USAID, WHO has contracted 10 regional radio stations and 2 national TV stations to raise awareness and promote preventative behaviour.

    Visit the WHO/AFRO web page to read the full story.

    Combating measles: a comprehensive community-centred approach in Ethiopia

    Combating measles, a comprehensive community-centred approach in Ethiopia. Photo by: WHO/Hassen Ali

    In the districts of Sidama, Central, and South Ethiopia, access to healthcare is often challenging, exacerbated by various health emergencies. A community-led initiative made remarkable progress in combating measles, malaria, and malnutrition through collaborative efforts between local health facilities, community health workers, and government agencies.

    The initiative received significant financial support from the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) bolstering community-based intervention efforts.

    By leveraging collaboration between healthcare facilities, community health workers, and local communities, this initiative represents a beacon of hope in improving healthcare access and outcomes in regions of Ethiopia.

    Visit the WHO/Ethiopia web page to read the full story.

    WHO races to contain malaria resurgence in southeastern Iran

    Malaria resurgence in Iran. Photo by: WHO/Iran

    A race against time is underway in southeastern Iran, where the resurgence of malaria threatens to undo years of progress. The dramatic rise in cases has been attributed to the devastating floods in neighbouring Pakistan in September 2022 which led to an expansion of malaria breeding sites.

    WHO, with crucial support from the Government of Japan, is on the ground in Sistan and Baluchestan Province, battling this public health emergency and working to protect vulnerable communities. Japan’s generous contribution provided 4902 mosquito dome tents offering families protection from infected mosquitos, 50 000 malaria rapid diagnostic tests enabling health care workers to quickly identify and treat infected individuals, and 1655 kg of insecticides, deployed to contain mosquito populations at their source. The combined resources are estimated to benefit 77 400 people in the province.

    In December 2024, a WHO mission observed a proactive approach to malaria control demonstrated by local health workers as they conducted house-to-house screenings, distributed mosquito nets and educated communities on how to use them.

    Visit the WHO/Iran web page to read the full story.

    Mali: screening for malnutrition in affected children to avoid complications

    Screening for malnutrition in affected children to avoid complications, Mali. Photo by: WHO/Razzack Saizonou

    Malnutrition among children is one of the main health problems that the affected populations of Ségou had to face after severe floods hit Mali between July and October 2024. Having lost everything including their food reserves and their means of subsistence, people found themselves in a very precarious situation.

    Among the more than 370,000 people affected by these floods, children, who represent 45% of the affected population, are particularly vulnerable. To enable access to health care, WHO, with thanks to the Central Emergency Response Fund, supported the deployment of mobile clinics on relocation sites.

    In the Ségou region, three sites were set up and equipped with medical tents. Medical staff go there five times a month. Between July and October 2024, nearly 700 children suffering from malnutrition were identified in the three health districts of the Ségou region.

    Visit the WHO/Mali web page to read the full story in French.

    Effective community engagement saving lives in Tanzania during cholera outbreak

    Abdul Zachari, a young man is washing his hands. Photo by: WHO/Clemence Eliah

    The recurrence of Cholera outbreaks has been a threat to many lives in the United Republic of Tanzania for decades now. In mid-2024, situation reports from the Ministry of Health indicated that, the outbreak have been reported in 19 regions of Tanzania Mainland. Thanks to flexible funding available for responding to outbreaks such as this, WHO has been able to support the Government’s efforts to control cholera outbreaks. Risk Communications and Community Engagement (RCCE) Experts worked on the ground delivering an intensive community sensitization in over 92 households and 32 villages . The joint and community-based action plan against Cholera outbreak was built jointly, this way enhancing 54 community members and local authorities from the affected wards and districts. The community engagement strategies adopted generate local solutions tailored to control and prevent further transmissions in these areas. In addition, WHO applied behavioral science approaches to guide tailored interventions to community protection and resilience – and as a result, enhancing many lives in Tanzania.

    Visit the WHO/Tanzania web page to read the full story.

    * * * *

    Read more about the WHO’s community engagement work.

    The donors and partners acknowledged in this story are (in alphabetical order) Australia, Belgium, Canada, the European Union (ECHO), France, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg, Japan, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund, and the USA Agency for International Development.

    WHO’s work is made possible through all contributions of our Member States and partners. WHO thanks all donor countries, governments, organizations and individuals who are contributing to the Organization’s work, with special appreciation for those who provide fully flexible contributions to maintain a strong, independent WHO.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 28 February 2025 News release Recommendations announced for influenza vaccine composition for the 2025-2026 northern hemisphere influenza season

    Source: World Health Organisation

    The World Health Organization (WHO) today announced the recommendations for the viral composition of influenza vaccines for the 2025-2026 influenza season in the northern hemisphere. The announcement was made at an information session at the end of a 4-day meeting on the Composition of Influenza Virus Vaccines, a meeting that is held twice annually. 

    WHO organizes these consultations with an advisory group of experts gathered from WHO Collaborating Centres and WHO Essential Regulatory Laboratories to analyse influenza virus surveillance data generated by the WHO Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS). The recommendations issued are used by the national vaccine regulatory agencies and pharmaceutical companies to develop, produce, and license influenza vaccines for the following influenza season. 

    The periodic update of viruses contained in influenza vaccines is necessary for the vaccines to be effective due to the constant evolving nature of influenza viruses, including those circulating and infecting humans.

    The WHO recommends that trivalent vaccines for use in the 2025-2026 northern hemisphere influenza season contain the following: 

    Egg-based vaccines

    • an A/Victoria/4897/2022 (H1N1)pdm09-like virus;
    • an A/Croatia/10136RV/2023 (H3N2)-like virus; and
    • a B/Austria/1359417/2021 (B/Victoria lineage)-like virus.

    Cell culture-, recombinant protein- or nucleic acid-based vaccines

    • an A/Wisconsin/67/2022 (H1N1)pdm09-like virus;
    • an A/District of Columbia/27/2023 (H3N2)-like virus; and
    • a B/Austria/1359417/2021 (B/Victoria lineage)-like virus. 

    The recommendation for the B/Yamagata lineage component of quadrivalent influenza vaccines remains unchanged from previous recommendations:

    • a B/Phuket/3073/2013 (B/Yamagata lineage)-like virus.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Nikki Merritt to Host Press Conference on Family and Workforce Justice Agenda

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA (February 28, 2025) — Today, February 28, at 1:00 p.m., Sen. Nikki Merritt (D–Grayson) will host a press conference to discuss her Family and Workforce Justice Agenda. During the press conference, the senator will roll out priorities and outline her agenda for the remainder of the 2025 legislative session.

    EVENT DETAILS:                      

    • Date: Friday, February 28, 2025
    • Time: 1:00 p.m.
    • Where: Georgia State Capitol, South Steps, 206 Washington St., Atlanta, GA 30334
    • This event is open to the public.

    MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:

     # # # #

    Sen. Nikki Merritt represents the 9th Senate District which includes portions of Gwinnett County. She may be reached at (404) 463-2260 or via email at nikki.merritt@senate.ga.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/SOUTH KOREA – Fertility rate reverses trend: Church community works to restore hope

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Foto di sq lim su Unsplash

    Seoul (Agenzia Fides) – The number of newborns and the fertility rate in South Korea are bucking the trend and rising for the first time in nine years of steady decline. According to the 2024 demographic trends, data released by the Korea Institute of Statistics, the number of births last year was 238,300, 8,300 more than the previous year, representing the first increase in the number of births since 2015. The fertility rate, i.e. the number of children a woman has in her lifetime, meanwhile rose to 0.75, an increase of 0.03 compared to the previous year. However, according to the report, Korea’s fertility rate is still well below the average of 1.51 for member countries of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). According to the Institute of Statistics, there are three reasons for the increase in the number of births: an increase in the population in the fertile age group, an increase in marriages that have been delayed by the pandemic, and also the beginning of a “cultural” shift in young people’s values regarding marriage. Joo Hyung-hwan, vice chairman of the government’s Low Birth Rate and Aging Society Committee, which was set up specifically to deal with these phenomena, said, “This year, the number of newborns will increase by 10,000 compared to last year, to about 250,000, and the total fertility rate will be about 0.79,” referring to the number of pregnancy and childbirth registrations received at workplaces. “The positive changes are obvious,” he said, emphasizing “that this is the result of the joint efforts of not only the government, but also companies and local authorities.” To counter the low birth rate, the government plans to expand parental leave for men, increase tax support for companies that excel in balancing work and family life, and require companies to raise awareness among their employees about work-life balance.In 2024, President Yoon Suk Yeol, currently under impeachment, proposed a new ministry to address the “national demographic crisis,” taking a more comprehensive approach that would not only focus on financial support and childcare, but also – as a broad national debate has shown – address the culture so that a balance between work and family can be found. To this end, companies would be encouraged to encourage their employees to become parents. In June 2024, the committee announced a package of “measures to reverse the trend of low birth rates.” A change in social practices and the work system could prove crucial in a country where the birth rate has fallen to the lowest in the world over the past decade.Sociologists have noted that Korean women have prioritized career advancement over marriage or parenthood, and another contributing factor has been the rising cost of housing and living and the cost of raising a child. But now, economists say, the demographic crisis has become the biggest risk to the growth of Asia’s fourth-largest economy and its social security system, as the population of 51 million could halve by the end of the century if the trend is not reversed.Father Oh Seok-jun, head of the Seoul Archdiocese Committee for Life, urged people not to view the low birth rate as “just a matter of numbers,” nor as a phenomenon that can be tackled with reproductive technologies, as some claim. It is necessary to “look at the issue from a spiritual and hopeful point of view”: “A child is a gift of grace granted by the Lord through the perfect union of love between a man and a woman. This is why the Catholic Church, in its pastoral care with young people and couples, invites them to look to the future with hope.” This is an approach that also characterizes the Holy Year under the motto “Pilgrims of Hope.” In this context, the Yeokchon-dong parish of the Archdiocese of Seoul held a “Blessing Ceremony for Families with Three or More Children” on February 23 to sensitize couples to the protection of life and to overcome the serious crisis of the low birth rate in Korea. Yuliana Kim Min-jeong, head of the family department in the parish, said: “It was good for the faithful to see how couples with three children live a life of faith and turn to the Lord in these rough times. We hope that their testimony will have a positive influence and give encouragement and hope to young couples.” At the level of mentality and social trends, a culture that tends towards individualism and questions the couple relationship must also be overcome. According to the census conducted by the Korea Statistics Institute, the percentage of single-person households in Korea exceeded 35 percent in 2023. In 2000, there were 2.2 million single-person households in the country, in 2015 there were over 5 million, and in 2023 there were 7.8 million. The Catholic Church, especially in the context of pastoral care for young adults, plays an active role in supporting those who, after entering the world of work, choose to live alone and create a “single” household: the aim is to propose to them forms of positive socialization that allow them to open up to others and develop interpersonal relationships, looking at their lives from the perspective of self-giving and not only from the perspective of self-interest. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 28/2/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA – Eight former African presidents launch initiative to tackle debt crisis that is strangling economies of poorer countries

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Cape Town (Agenzia Fides) – “The debt crisis has been aggravated by rising interest rates and the strength of the dollar, making it increasingly difficult for African countries to manage dollar-denominated debt. A global solution to this crisis is not only vital for our economies, but will benefit the entire world,” said former President of Tanzania, Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, presenting the “African Leaders Debt Relief Initiative” (ALDRI), promoted by eight former African Heads of State. The ALDRI initiative was launched in Cape Town on the sidelines of the G20 Finance Ministers Summit, during which the South African presidency of the forum – which brings together the world’s 20 most industrialized countries – has placed debt sustainability at the centre of the debate.The signatories have underlined the urgent need to reform the global financial architecture to provide greater support to developing countries.“Africa is facing unsustainable debt burdens. It is essential that we come together to find a solution to this crisis. Africa’s future is intertwined with the future of the world and we must work to resolve the debt crisis, thereby boosting sustainable economic development across the continent. South Africa’s commitment to prioritize debt relief and to work with nations to address the root causes of high-cost debt is a positive step,” said Olusegun Obasanjo, former president of Nigeria.Macky Sall, former President of Senegal, has underlined the urgency of debt relief: “African countries bear disproportionately high interest rate burdens and debt costs, which often require repayment within a very short time frame. A comprehensive solution to the debt crisis must be a priority for all, as solving this problem benefits everyone, everywhere.” Joyce Banda, former President of Malawi, has highlighted the financial challenges facing developing nations: “The countries on the front line of the development crisis are the same ones struggling with record levels of debt.By 2030, these nations will need to invest up to $6.4 trillion a year to achieve sustainable development. However, this goal remains unsustainable, given their massive debt service obligations.” Yemi Osinbajo, former Vice President of Nigeria, stressed the need for urgent action: “More than half of African countries now spend more on interest payments than on health care, leaving them with very little financial room to invest in sustainable development. It is crucial to act immediately and achieve a breakthrough at the next G20 meeting. The South African presidency of the G20 represents a vital opportunity to forge a strong and united position in favour of debt relief”. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 28/2/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Boralex reports net earnings of $74 million for fiscal 2024 and continues construction of its large-scale projects in Québec, Ontario and the United Kingdom

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MONTREAL, Feb. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Boralex Inc. (“Boralex” or the “Corporation”) (TSX: BLX) is pleased to report its results for the three-month period and year ended December 31, 2024.

    Highlights
    Financial results

    • EBITDA(A)1, operating income and net earnings under pressure in Q4-2024 owing to adverse wind and hydropower conditions
      • Production 16% (11% on a Combined1 basis)2 lower than in Q4-2023 and 16% (12%) below anticipated production1, due primarily to the adverse climate conditions. For fiscal 2024 overall, production was 5% (2%) lower than in 2023 and 10% (8%) below anticipated production.
      • EBITDA(A) of $169 million ($191 million) for Q4-2024, down $33 million ($38 million) from Q4-2023. For fiscal 2024, EBITDA(A) was $581 million ($670 million), up $3 million (down $5 million) from 2023. The decrease in production was partly offset by the contribution of newly commissioned sites in France and the positive impact of the electricity selling price optimization strategy.
      • Operating income of $78 million ($53 million) for Q4-2024, down $20 million ($66 million) from Q4-2023. For fiscal 2024, operating income totalled $226 million ($267 million), unchanged (down $39 million) from 2023.
      • Net loss of $2 million in Q4-2024, down $60 million from T4-2023. For fiscal 2024, net earnings amounted to $74 million, $41 million lower than in 2023. Excluding the impairment of an asset, net earnings would have been $6 million higher in fiscal 2024 compared to fiscal 2023.
    • Lower cash flow related to operating activities for the quarter but balance sheet remains strong
      • Net cash flows related to operating activities of $31 million for Q4-2024 and $215 million for fiscal 2024, compared to $107 million for Q4-2023 and $496 million for fiscal 2023.
      • Discretionary cash flows1 of $47 million for Q4-2024 and $158 million for fiscal 2024, down $44 million from Q4-2023 and $26 million from fiscal 2023.
      • Boralex has $592 million in cash and cash equivalents and $523 million in available cash resources and authorized financing1 as at December 31, 2024.
      • A record of nearly $1.2 billion in project financing, bridge financing and letter of credit facilities obtained in 2024.

    Update on development and construction activities

    • Portfolio of projects under development and growth path totalling 8,005 MW in the high growth potential markets of Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom and France, 1,227 MW or 18% higher than in 2023
    • Progress in under-construction and ready-to-build projects
      • Start of electrification of the Limekiln wind farm in the United Kingdom (106 MW) in February 2025, with full commissioning planned for early April, and work continues on the Apuiat wind farm in Quebec (total 200 MW, Boralex’s share 100 MW), with commissioning planned for the first half of 2025.
      • Construction of the Hagersville (300 MW) and Tilbury (80 MW) storage projects in Ontario progressing on schedule, with commissioning planned for the fourth quarter of 2025. Financings closed in December 2024.
      • Start of work on the Des Neiges Sud wind project in Quebec (total 400 MW, Boralex’s share 133 MW), with commissioning scheduled for 2026.
    • Acquisition of the Clashindarroch Wind Farm Extension project in the United Kingdom, with an installed capacity of 145 MW, and the adjacent battery energy storage system (BESS) with a maximum capacity of 50 MW, for a total capacity of 195 MW. Boralex has a 50% interest, but has control over the project and will fully consolidate the results in the financial statements.
    1 EBITDA(A) is a total of segment measures. Anticipated production is an additional financial measure. “Combined,” “discretionary cash flows” and “available cash resources and authorized financing” are non-GAAP financial measures and do not have a standardized definition under IFRS. Consequently, these measures may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies. For more details, see the Non-IFRS financial measures and other financial measures section of this press release.
    2 Figures in brackets indicate results on a Combined basis as opposed to a Consolidated basis.
       

    “The year 2024 proved to be full of challenges, which our employees met head-on. I would highlight in particular the significant effort our team invested in 2024 to secure nearly $1.2 billion in financing, a record for Boralex, on very good terms. Despite high volatility in the financial markets and pressure on the stock prices of renewable energy companies, notably in the wake of the American elections, we are convinced that renewable energy development will continue in many regions. Strong growth in electricity demand is expected in the regions where we are developing wind and solar farms and battery storage systems, namely Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States and France,” said Patrick Decostre, President and Chief Executive Officer of Boralex.

    Renewable energy, which is the most competitive type of energy, can be brought on line to meet demand much faster than other types of energy. Boralex is in a position to capitalize on its project pipeline and growth path, which now represent more than 8 GW of power, and will continue to develop key projects with rates of return in line with its targets.

    “Boralex saw its financial results decline in fiscal 2024, mainly as a result of adverse wind conditions in France and to a lesser extent in Canada, as well as impairment of an asset. During the year, we continued to implement our various initiatives aimed at optimizing administrative, financial and development costs. We ended our 2024 financial year with net earnings of $74 million, a strong balance sheet and good financial flexibility, with over $500 million in available cash resources and authorized financing,” Mr. Decostre added.

    Boralex continues to excel on the corporate social responsibility front. In 2024, the Corporation announced that it was one of the few in the industry to have had its greenhouse gas emission reduction targets validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). This recognition shows Boralex’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050. In addition, Boralex ranked 94th out of the 215 S&P/TSX Composite Index companies and trusts analysed as part of The Board Games, with a score of 80/100, while in 2023 it was 102nd with a score of 76. Finally, Boralex placed 15th in the ranking of Canada’s 50 best corporate citizens, out of the 340 leading Canadian organizations analysed.

    4th quarter highlights

    Three-month periods ended December 31

      Consolidated Combined
    (in millions of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise specified)   2024     2023 Change   2024     2023 Change
            $   %           $   %  
    Power production (GWh)1   1,520     1,814   (294 ) (16 )   2,099     2,351   (252 ) (11 )
    Revenues from energy sales and feed-in premium   228     315   (87 ) (28 )   258     345   (87 ) (25 )
    Operating income   78     98   (20 ) (21 )   53     119   (66 ) (55 )
    EBITDA(A)   169     202   (33 ) (17 )   191     229   (38 ) (17 )
    Net earnings (loss)   (2 )   58   (60 ) >(100 )    (2 )   58   (60 ) >(100 )
    Net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders of Boralex   (16 )   37   (53 ) >(100 )    (16 )   37   (53 ) >(100 )
    Per share – basic and diluted   ($0.15 ) $0.36   ($0.51 ) >(100 )    ($0.15 ) $0.36   ($0.51 ) >(100 )
    Net cash flows related to operating activities   31     107   (76 ) (71 )   —     —   —   —  
    Cash flows from operations2   105     161   (56 ) (35 )   —     —   —   —  
    Discretionary cash flows   47     91   (44 ) (48 )   —     —   —   —  
                                             

    In the fourth quarter of 2024, Boralex produced 1,520 GWh (2,099 GWh) of power, 16% (11%) less than the 1,814 GWh (2,351 GWh) produced in the same quarter of 2023. The decrease was mainly attributable to adverse weather conditions. As a result, Boralex ended the quarter with total production that was 16% (12%) below anticipated production.

    Revenues from energy sales and feed-in premiums for the three-month period ended December 31, 2024, amounted to $228 million ($258 million), 28% (25%) lower than in the fourth quarter of 2023. The decrease was mainly attributable to the lower production. EBITDA(A) amounted to $169 million ($191 million), down 17% (17%) from the fourth quarter of 2023. The decline in production was partly offset by the contribution of new assets commissioned in France and the positive impact of the electricity selling price optimization strategy. Operating income totalled $78 million ($53 million), compared to $98 million ($119 million) for the same quarter of 2023. The Company posted a net loss of $2 million, which represents a $60 million decrease from the $58 million in net earnings reported for the fourth quarter of 2023.

    1 Power production includes the production for which Boralex received financial compensation following power generation limitations as management uses this measure to evaluate the Corporation’s performance. This adjustment facilitates the correlation between power production and revenues from energy sales and feed-in premium.
    2 The cash flows from operations is a non-GAAP financial measure and does not have a standardized meaning under IFRS. Accordingly, it may not be comparable to similarly named measures used by other companies. For more details, see the Non-IFRS and other financial measures section of this press release.
       

    Years ended December 31

      Consolidated Combined

    (in millions of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise specified)

    		   2024   2023 Change   2024   2023 Change
            $   %           $   %  
    Power production (GWh)1   5,691   5,973   (282 ) (5 )   7,845   8,020   (175 ) (2 )
    Revenues from energy sales and feed-in premium   817   994   (177 ) (18 )   933   1,104   (171 ) (15 )
    Operating income   226   226   —   —     267   306   (39 ) (12 )
    EBITDA(A)   581   578   3   —     670   675   (5 ) (1 )
    Net earnings   74   115   (41 ) (35 )   74   115   (41 ) (35 )
    Net earnings attributable to shareholders of Boralex   36   78   (42 ) (54 )   36   78   (42 ) (54 )
    Per share – basic and diluted $0.35 $0.76 ($0.41 ) (54 ) $0.35 $0.76 ($0.41 ) (54 )
    Net cash flows related to operating activities   215   496   (281 ) (57 )   —   —   —   —  
    Cash flows from operations   415   445   (30 ) (7 )   —   —   —   —  
    Discretionary cash flows   158   184   (26 ) (14 )   —   —   —   —  
      As at
    Dec. 31    		 As at
    Dec. 31    		 Change As at
    Dec. 31    		 As at
    Dec. 31    		 Change
            $   %           $   %  
    Total assets   7,604   6,574   1,030   16     8,476   7,304   1,172   16  
    Debt – principal balance   4,032   3,327   705   21     4,588   3,764   824   22  
    Total project debt   3,608   2,844   764   27     4,166   3,281   885   27  
    Total corporate debt   424   483   (59 ) (12 )   424   483   (59 ) (12 )
                                         

    For the year ended December 31, 2024, Boralex produced 5,691 GWh (7,845 GWh) of power, less than the 5,973 GWh (8,020 GWh) produced during the same period in 2023. Revenues from energy sales and feed-in premiums for the financial year ended December 31, 2024, amounted to $817 million ($933 million), down $177 million ($171 million) or 18% (15%) from the same period in 2023.

    EBITDA(A) amounted to $581 million ($670 million), up $3 million (down $5 million) from the same period last year. Operating income totalled $226 million ($267 million), essentially unchanged (down $39 million) from the same period in 2023. Overall, Boralex posted net earnings of $74 million ($74 million) for the financial year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $115 million ($115 million) for fiscal 2023.

    1 Power production includes the production for which Boralex received financial compensation following power generation limitations imposed by its customers since management uses this measure to evaluate the Corporation’s performance. This adjustment facilitates the correlation between power production and revenues from energy sales and feed-in premiums.
       

    Outlook

    Boralex’s 2025 Strategic Plan is built around the same four strategic directions as the plan launched in 2019 – growth, diversification, customers and optimization – and six corporate targets. The details of the plan, which also sets out Boralex’s corporate social responsibility strategy, are found in the Corporation’s annual report. Highlights of the main achievements for the 2024 financial year in relation to the 2025 Strategic Plan can be found in the 2024 Annual Report, in the Investors section of the Boralex website.

    In the coming quarters, Boralex will continue to work on its various initiatives under the strategic plan, including project development, analysis of acquisition targets and optimization of power sales and operating costs. The Corporation will present a new plan for the period to 2030 during the course of 2025.

    Finally, to fuel its organic growth, the Corporation has a portfolio of projects under development and growth path based on clearly identified criteria, totalling more than 8 GW of wind, solar and energy storage projects.

    About Boralex

    At Boralex, we have been providing affordable renewable energy accessible to everyone for over 30 years. As a leader in the Canadian market and France’s largest independent producer of onshore wind power, we also have facilities in the United States and development projects in the United Kingdom. Over the past five years, our installed capacity has more than doubled to over 3.1 GW. We are developing a portfolio of projects in development and construction of more than 8 GW in wind, solar and storage projects, guided by our values and our corporate social responsibility (CSR) approach. Through profitable and sustainable growth, Boralex is actively participating in the fight against global warming. Thanks to our fearlessness, our discipline, our expertise and our diversity, we continue to be an industry leader. Boralex’s shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol BLX.

    For more information, visit www.boralex.com or www.sedarplus.ca. Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

    Non-IFRS measures
    Performance measures

    In order to assess the performance of its assets and reporting segments, Boralex uses performance measures. Management believes that these measures are widely accepted financial indicators used by investors to assess the operational performance of a company and its ability to generate cash through operations. The non-IFRS and other financial measures also provide investors with insight into the Corporation’s decision making as the Corporation uses these non-IFRS financial measures to make financial, strategic and operating decisions. The non-IFRS and other financial measures should not be considered as substitutes for IFRS measures.

    These non-IFRS and other financial measures are derived primarily from the audited consolidated financial statements, but do not have a standardized meaning under IFRS; accordingly, they may not be comparable to similarly named measures used by other companies. Non-IFRS and other financial measures are not audited. They have important limitations as analytical tools and investors are cautioned not to consider them in isolation or place undue reliance on ratios or percentages calculated using these non-IFRS financial measures.

    Non-IFRS financial measures
    Specific financial
    measure    		 Use Composition Most directly
    comparable IFRS
    measure
    Financial data – Combined (all disclosed financial data) To assess the operating performance and the ability of a company to generate cash from its operations and investments in joint ventures and associates. Results from the combination of the financial information of Boralex Inc. under IFRS and the share of the financial information of the Interests.

    Interests in the Joint Ventures and associates, Share in earnings (losses) of the Joint Ventures and associates and Distributions received from the Joint Ventures and associates are then replaced with Boralex’s respective share in the financial statements of the Interests (revenues, expenses, assets, liabilities, etc.)

    		 Respective financial data – Consolidated
    Discretionary cash flows To assess the cash generated from operations and the amount available for future development or to be paid as dividends to common shareholders while preserving the long-term value of the business.

    Corporate objectives for 2025 from the strategic plan.

    		 Net cash flows related to operating activities before “change in non-cash items related to operating activities,” less
    (i) distributions paid to non-controlling shareholders;
    (ii) additions to property, plant and equipment (maintenance of operations);
    (iii) repayments on non-current debt (projects) and repayments to tax equity investors;
    (iv) principal payments related to lease liabilities;
    (v) adjustments for non-operational items; plus
    (vi) development costs (from the statement of earnings).    		 Net cash flows related to operating activities
    Cash flows from operations To assess the cash generated by the Company’s operations and its ability to finance its expansion from these funds. Net cash flows related to operating activities before changes in non-cash items related to operating activities. Net cash flows related to operating activities
    Non-IFRS financial measures
    Specific financial
    measure    		 Use Composition Most directly
    comparable IFRS
    measure
    Available cash and cash equivalents To assess the cash and cash equivalents available, as at balance sheet date, to fund the Corporation’s growth. Represents cash and cash equivalents, as stated on the balance sheet, from which known short-term cash requirements are excluded. Cash and cash equivalents
    Available cash resources and authorized financing To assess the total cash resources available, as at balance sheet date, to fund the Corporation’s growth. Results from the combination of credit facilities available to fund growth and the available cash and cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents
    Other financial measures – Total of segments measure
    Specific financial measure Most directly comparable IFRS measure
    EBITDA(A) Operating income
    Other financial measures – Supplementary Financial Measures
    Specific financial measure Composition
    Credit facilities available for growth The credit facilities available for growth include the unused tranche of the parent company’s credit facility, apart from the accordion clause, as well as the unused tranche credit facilities of subsidiaries which includes the unused tranche of the credit facility- France and the unused tranche of the construction facility.
    Anticipated production For older sites, anticipated production by the Corporation is based on adjusted historical averages, planned commissioning and shutdowns and, for all other sites, on the production studies carried out.
       

    Combined

    The following tables reconcile Consolidated financial data with data presented on a Combined basis:

        2024     2023  
    (in millions of Canadian dollars) Consolidated   Reconciliation(1)   Combined   Consolidated  Reconciliation(1) Combined  
    Three-month periods ended December 31:              
    Power production (GWh)(2) 1,520   579   2,099   1,814 537 2,351  
    Revenues from energy sales and feed-in premium 228   30   258   315 30 345  
    Operating income 78   (25 ) 53   98 21 119  
    EBITDA(A) 169   22   191   202 27 229  
    Net earnings (loss) (2 ) —   (2 ) 58 — 58  
    Years ended December 31:                    
    Power production (GWh)(2) 5,691   2,154   7,845   5,973 2,047 8,020  
    Revenues from energy sales and feed-in premiums 817   116   933   994 110 1,104  
    Operating income 226   41   267   226 80 306  
    EBITDA(A) 581   89   670   578 97 675  
    Net earnings 74   —   74   115 — 115  
      As at December 31, 2024
    		   As at December 31, 2023
    		  
    Total assets 7,604   872   8,476   6,574 730 7,304  
    Debt – Principal balance 4,032   556   4,588   3,327 437 3,764  
    (1) Includes the respective contribution of joint ventures and associates as a percentage of Boralex’s interest less adjustments to reverse recognition of these interests under IFRS. This contribution is attributable to the North America segment’s wind farms and includes corporate expenses of $2 million under EBITDA(A) for the year ended December 31, 2024 ($2 million as at December 31, 2023). 
    (2) Includes compensation following electricity production limitations.
       

    EBITDA(A)

    EBITDA(A) is a total of segment financial measures and represents earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, adjusted to exclude other items such as acquisition and integration costs, other losses (gains), net loss (gain) on financial instruments and foreign exchange loss (gain), with the last two items included under Other.

    EBITDA(A) is used to assess the performance of the Corporation’s reporting segments.

    EBITDA(A) is reconciled to the most comparable IFRS measure, namely, operating income, in the following table:

      2024       2023   Change 2024 vs 2023
    (in millions of Canadian dollars) Consolidated Reconciliation(1) Combined Consolidated Reconciliation(1) Combined Consolidated   Combined
    		  
    Three-month periods ended December 31:            
    EBITDA(A) 169   22   191   202   27   229   (33 ) (38 )
    Amortization (73 ) (15 ) (88 ) (75 ) (14 ) (89 ) 2   1  
    Impairment —   (47 ) (47 ) (20 ) (1 ) (21 ) 20   (26 )
    Other gains (losses) (3 ) —   (3 ) 1   (1 ) —   (4 ) (3 )
    Share in earnings of joint ventures and associates (3 ) 3   —   (17 ) 17   —   14   —  
    Change in fair value of a derivative included in the share in earnings of a joint venture —   —   —   7   (7 ) —   (7 ) —  
    Impairment included in the share in earnings of a joint venture (12 ) 12   —   —   —   —   (12 ) —  
    Operating income 78   (25 ) 53   98   21   119   (20 ) (66 )
                 
    Years ended December 31:            
    EBITDA(A) 581   89   670   578   97   675   3   (5 )
    Amortization (297 ) (59 ) (356 ) (293 ) (58 ) (351 ) (4 ) (5 )
    Impairment (5 ) (47 ) (52 ) (20 ) (1 ) (21 ) 15   (31 )
    Other gains 5   —   5   1   2   3   4   2  
    Share in earnings of joint ventures and associates (46 ) 46   —   (59 ) 59   —   13   —  
    Change in fair value of a derivative included in the share in earnings of a joint venture —   —   —   19   (19 ) —   (19 ) —  
    Impairment included in the share in earnings of a joint venture (12 ) 12   —   —   —   —   (12 ) —  
    Operating income 226   41   267   226   80   306   —   (39 )
    (1) Includes the respective contribution of joint ventures and associates as a percentage of Boralex’s interest less adjustments to reverse recognition of these interests under IFRS.
       

    Cash flow from operations and discretionary cash flows

    The Corporation computes the cash flow from operations and discretionary cash flows as follows:

      Consolidated
      Three-month periods ended Years ended
      December 31 December 31
    (in millions of Canadian dollars) 2024   2023   2024   2023  
    Net cash flows related to operating activities 31   107   215   496  
    Change in non-cash items relating to operating activities 74   54   200   (51 )
    Cash flows from operations 105   161   415   445  
    Repayments on non-current debt (projects)(1) (53 ) (50 ) (240 ) (232 )
    Adjustment for non-operating items(2) 5   2   7   6  
      57   113   182   219  
    Principal payments related to lease liabilities(3) (6 ) (4 ) (19 ) (17 )
    Distributions paid to non-controlling shareholders(4) (17 ) (33 ) (52 ) (57 )
    Additions to property, plant and equipment (maintenance of operations)(5) (3 ) 2   (10 ) (6 )
    Development costs (from statement of earnings)(6) 16   13   57   45  
    Discretionary cash flows 47   91   158   184  
    (1) Includes repayments on non-current debt (projects) and repayments to tax equity investors, and excludes VAT bridge financing, early debt repayments and repayments under the construction facility – Boralex Energy Investments portfolio and the CDPQ Fixed Income Inc. term loan.
    (2) For the years ended December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, favourable adjustment consisting mainly of acquisition, integration and other non-operating miscellaneous items.
    (3) Excludes the principal payments related to lease liabilities for projects under development and construction.
    (4) Comprises distributions paid to non-controlling shareholders as well as the portion of discretionary cash flows attributable to the non-controlling shareholder of Boralex Europe Sàrl.
    (5) Excludes the additions to the property, plant and equipment of regulated assets (treated as assets under construction since they are regulated assets for which investments in the plant are considered in the setting of its electricity selling price). During the fourth quarter of 2023, an amount of $4 million was reclassified as new property, plant, and equipment under construction.
    (6) During Q1-2024, the Corporation reclassified the employee benefits for 2023 and 2024 related to its incentive plans, which were reported in full under Operating expenses in the consolidated statements of earnings. To better allocate these expenses to the Corporation’s various functions and thus provide more relevant information to users of the financial statements, the Corporation is now allocating these costs to Operating, Administrative and Development expenses in the consolidated statements of earnings according to the breakdown of staff. This change resulted in a $1 million increase in development costs for the three-month period ended December 31, 2023 and $5 million increase for the year ended December 31, 2023.
       

    Available cash and cash equivalents and available cash resources and authorized financing

    The Corporation defines available cash and cash equivalents as well as available cash resources and authorized financing as follows:

      Consolidated
      As at December 31   As at December 31  
    (in millions of Canadian dollars) 2024   2023  
    Cash and cash equivalents 592   478  
    Cash and cash equivalents held by entities subject to project debt agreement and restrictions(1) (526 ) (388 )
    Bank overdraft (5 ) (6 )
    Available cash and cash equivalents 61   84  
    Credit facilities available for growth 462   463  
    Available cash resources and authorized financing 523   547  
    (1) This cash can be used for the operations of the respective projects, but is subject to restrictions for non-project related purposes under the credit agreements.
       

    Disclaimer regarding forward-looking statements

    Certain statements contained in this release, including those related to results and performance for future periods, installed capacity targets, EBITDA(A) and discretionary cash flows, the Corporation’s strategic plan, business model and growth strategy, organic growth and growth through mergers and acquisitions, obtaining an investment grade credit rating, payment of a quarterly dividend, the Corporation’s financial targets, the projects commissioning dates, the portfolio of renewable energy projects, the Corporation’s Growth Path, the bids for new storage and solar projects and its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) objectives are forward-looking statements based on current forecasts, as defined by securities legislation. Positive or negative verbs such as “will,” “would,” “forecast,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “plan,” “project,” “continue,” “intend,” “assess,” “estimate” or “believe,” or expressions such as “toward,” “about,” “approximately,” “to be of the opinion,” “potential” or similar words or the negative thereof or other comparable terminology, are used to identify such statements.

    Forward-looking statements are based on major assumptions, including those about the Corporation’s return on its projects, as projected by management with respect to wind and other factors, opportunities that may be available in the various sectors targeted for growth or diversification, assumptions made about EBITDA(A) margins, assumptions made about the sector realities and general economic conditions, competition, exchange rates as well as the availability of funding and partners. While the Corporation considers these factors and assumptions to be reasonable, based on the information currently available to the Corporation, they may prove to be inaccurate.

    Boralex wishes to clarify that, by their very nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, and that its results, or the measures it adopts, could be significantly different from those indicated or underlying those statements, or could affect the degree to which a given forward-looking statement is achieved. The main factors that may result in any significant discrepancy between the Corporation’s actual results and the forward-looking financial information or expectations expressed in forward-looking statements include the general impact of economic conditions, fluctuations in various currencies, fluctuations in energy prices, the risk of not renewing PPAs or being unable to sign new corporate PPA, the risk of not being able to capture the US or Canadian investment tax credit, counterparty risk, the Corporation’s financing capacity, cybersecurity risks, competition, changes in general market conditions, industry regulations and amendments thereto, particularly the legislation, regulations and emergency measures that could be implemented for time to time to address high energy prices in Europe, litigation and other regulatory issues related to projects in operation or under development, as well as certain other factors considered in the sections dealing with risk factors and uncertainties appearing in Boralex’s MD&A for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024.

    Unless otherwise specified by the Corporation, forward-looking statements do not take into account the effect that transactions, non-recurring items or other exceptional items announced or occurring after such statements have been made may have on the Corporation’s activities. There is no guarantee that the results, performance or accomplishments, as expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements, will materialize. Readers are therefore urged not to rely unduly on these forward-looking statements.

    Unless required by applicable securities legislation, Boralex’s management assumes no obligation to update or revise forward- looking statements in light of new information, future events or other changes.

    For more information:

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Boralex Launches Normal Course Issuer Bid

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MONTREAL, Feb. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Boralex Inc. (“Boralex” or the “Company”) (TSX: BLX) today announced that it has authorized, and the Toronto Stock Exchange (the “TSX”) has approved, a normal course issuer bid (the “NCIB”) to purchase for cancellation up to 8,669,245 Class A shares of Boralex (the “Common Shares”) over the twelve-month period commencing on March 4, 2025, and ending no later than March 3, 2026, representing approximately 10% of the “public float” (as defined in the TSX Company Manual) of the Common Shares issued and outstanding as at February 19, 2025. As of such date, there were 102,766,580 Common Shares issued and outstanding. Subject to the required regulatory approvals, the NCIB will be conducted through the facilities of the TSX or alternative trading systems in Canada, if eligible, or outside the facilities of the TSX pursuant to exemption orders issued by securities regulatory authorities. Common Shares will be acquired under the NCIB at the prevailing market price at the time of acquisition, plus brokerage fees, except that any purchases made under an issuer bid exemption order will be at a discount to the prevailing market price as per the terms of the order. Any Common Share purchased under the NCIB will be canceled.

    Under the NCIB, other than purchases made under block purchase exemptions, Boralex will be allowed, subject to applicable securities laws, to purchase daily a maximum of 72,088 Common Shares representing 25% of the average daily trading volume of 288,355 Common Shares, as calculated per the TSX rules for the six-month period ended on January 31, 2025.

    In connection with the NCIB, Boralex will also enter into an automatic share purchase plan (“ASPP”) on the date hereof with the designated broker responsible for the NCIB. The ASPP will allow for the purchase for cancellation of Common Shares under the NCIB, subject to certain trading parameters, by the designated broker at times when Boralex would ordinarily not be permitted to purchase its securities due to regulatory restrictions and customary self-imposed blackout periods. Pursuant to the ASPP, before entering into a blackout period, Boralex may, but is not required to, instruct the designated broker to make purchases under the NCIB in accordance with certain purchasing parameters. Such purchases will be made by the designated broker based on such purchasing parameters, without further instructions by Boralex, in compliance with the rules of the TSX, applicable securities laws and the terms of the ASPP.

    Boralex believes that its Common Shares are trading from time to time at levels generally below the underlying value of the Company’s business and that the introduction of an NCIB will provide an additional tool to optimize its use of funds and create long-term value for its shareholders. This program will provide greater flexibility to carry on Boralex financial strategy without altering investments planned to seize development opportunities. Furthermore, the purchases are expected to benefit all persons who continue to hold Boralex Common Shares by increasing their equity interest in Boralex when such repurchased Common Shares are canceled.

    The decisions regarding the timing and size of purchases under the NCIB are subject to management’s discretion and will be based on various factors, including the Company’s capital and liquidity positions, accounting and regulatory considerations, the Company’s financial and operational performance, alternative uses of capital, the trading price of the Common Shares and general market conditions. The NCIB does not obligate Boralex to acquire a specific dollar amount or number of shares and may be modified or discontinued at any time. Boralex has not repurchased any of its outstanding Common Shares under a normal course issuer bid in the past 12 months.

    Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    Some of the statements contained in this press release, including, without limitation, those regarding the NCIB and ASPP and the intended purchase for cancellation of Common Shares thereunder, are forward-looking statements based on current expectations, within the meaning of securities legislation. Boralex would like to point out that, by their very nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties such that its results or the measure it adopts could differ materially from those indicated by or underlying these statements or could have an impact on the degree of realization of a particular forward-looking statement. Unless otherwise specified by the Company, the forward-looking statements do not take into account the possible impact on its activities, transactions, non-recurring items or other exceptional items announced or occurring after the statements are made. There can be no assurance as to the materialization of the results, performance or achievements as expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Unless required to do so under applicable securities legislation, Boralex management does not assume any obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect new information, future events, or other changes.

    About Boralex

    At Boralex, we have been providing affordable renewable energy accessible to everyone for over 30 years. As a leader in the Canadian market and France’s largest independent producer of onshore wind power, we also have facilities in the United States and development projects in the United Kingdom. Over the past five years, our installed capacity has more than doubled to over 3.1 GW. We are developing a portfolio of projects in development and construction of more than 8 GW in wind, solar and storage projects, guided by our values and our corporate social responsibility (CSR) approach. Through profitable and sustainable growth, Boralex is actively participating in the fight against global warming. Thanks to our fearlessness, our discipline, our expertise and our diversity, we continue to be an industry leader. Boralex’s shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol BLX.

    For more information, visit boralex.com or sedarplus.com. Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

    For more information

    Source: Boralex inc.        

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary-General/Bangladesh, Ramadan, Türkiye & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (27 February)

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

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

    Highlights:
    Secretary-General/Bangladesh
    Secretary-General/Ramadan Message
    Türkiye
    Haiti
    Ukraine
    Sudan
    Democratic Republic of the Congo/Jean-Pierre Lacroix
    Democratic Republic of the Congo
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Lebanon
    Staff Security

    SECRETARY-GENERAL/BANGLADESH
    Every year, the Secretary-General does a Ramadan solidarity visit, where he likes to visit and fast with a Muslim community, which is facing distress. He began this tradition when he was High Commissioner for Refugees. In his own words, the Secretary-General said that Ramadan embodies the values of compassion, empathy and generosity. It is an opportunity to reconnect with family, with community and a chance to remember those less fortunate. These missions are to remind the world of the true face of Islam.
    This year, the Secretary-General will be going to Bangladesh from the 13-16 March. He will travel to Cox’s Bazaar to join an Iftar and meet with Rohingya refugees who have been forcibly displaced from their homes in Myanmar, and also, of course, with the host Bangladeshi communities who have been generously in hosting the refugees from Myanmar.
    During his visit, he will also be in the capital of Bangladesh, Dhaka, where he will meet with the Chief Adviser for the interim government, Professor Muhammed Yunus, as well as with young women and men and representatives from civil society.

    SECRETARY-GENERAL/RAMADAN MESSAGE
    In his annual message at the start of Ramadan, the Secretary-General expressed a special message of support to all those who will spend this sacred time in displacement and violence. From Gaza and the wider region, to Sudan, the Sahel and beyond.
    The Secretary-General stands with all those who are suffering and joins those observing Ramadan to call for peace and mutual respect.

    TÜRKIYE
    On the reports coming out of Türkiye regarding Abdullah Öcalan, the imprisoned leader of the Kurdistan Workers Party, the PKK, and his message calling for fighters to lay down their arms and the PKK to dissolve itself, the spokesperson said that the Secretary-General welcomes this important development. This represents a glimmer of hope, which would lead to the resolution of a long-standing conflict.

    HAITI
    The World Food Programme (WFP) today said that, as part of their emergency response in Haiti, they continue to provide critical food assistance, cash-based transfers, and hot meals across the Artibonite, Nord, and Ouest departments. This includes $1.2 million in cash assistance, as well as nearly 3,000 meals distributed in border regions to Haitians deported back to their country.
    Last week, the WFP organized the first of two humanitarian cargo flights from Panama City to Port-au-Prince. This was the first humanitarian cargo flight to land at the Port-au-Prince airport since its closure lastNovember.
    The flight carried medicines, vaccines, and medical supplies for eight humanitarian organizations. A second flight is scheduled in about one month.

    Full highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=27%20February%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nX1Wlh5xwHk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Donald Trump should not be welcome in Scotland

    Source: Scottish Greens

    28 Feb 2025 External Affairs

    We must recognise the threat he poses to global security, democracy and our climate.

    More in External Affairs

    Donald Trump does not deserve a warm welcome and must be met with protest on his visit to Scotland, say the Scottish Greens. 

    The US President has been invited to meet with King Charles in Scotland to discuss their “mutual interests” and plan a second state visit.

    Scottish Greens co-leader Patrick Harvie MSP said:

    “In the short time since Donald Trump has re-entered the White House he has unleashed some of the most destructive policies of any US President in living memory. 

    “Despite Keir Starmer’s sickening deference to him, Trump is not a friendly leader and should not be treated as if he was. He is a dangerous, fraudulent, misogynistic, racist, climate-change denier, and one who openly opposes democratic values.

    “During his first Presidency he repeatedly promoted the work of fascists, and in recent weeks high profile members of his government have been openly advancing the interests of far right parties in Europe, interfering in our domestic politics in a way that would once have sparked global outrage. It was only two weeks ago that his Vice President was spreading misinformation about abortion rights in Scotland to a global audience.

    “The threat Trump represents to global security, to democracy, to human rights and to our climate could not be clearer. To offer him such a warm welcome and the trappings of a state visit is a slap in the face to the millions of people across the US and beyond who are frightened for their friends and family who are having their rights eroded or removed.

    “The UK Labour Government is utterly failing to recognise the threat he poses and the urgent strategic choice this country faces. Either we stand reunited with democratic Europe, or we assist Trump in ushering in a frightening new era, one where international law is replaced by the whim of tyrants and their billionaire backers.”

    Mr Harvie added:

    “I have no doubt that Donald Trump’s visit will be met with protests and a great deal of anger. 

    “Only this week the First Minister was calling for a united front against the far right. That must also mean standing up to Donald Trump and the toxic and hateful politics that he represents.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKETO, Brussels celebrates Chinese New Year across Europe and highlights Hong Kong’s exciting year ahead (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels (HKETO, Brussels) hosted vibrant Chinese New Year receptions across various European countries, marking the beginning of the Year of the Snake. The receptions, held in Luxembourg (February 12), Lisbon, Portugal (February 17), The Hague, the Netherlands (February 20), and Bucharest, Romania (February 25), were well-received by distinguished guests and partners.

         The receptions provided an opportunity to reflect on Hong Kong’s achievements and share the city’s vision. HKETO, Brussels emphasised Hong Kong’s dynamic calendar of world-class events that solidify its reputation as “Events Capital of Asia”.  Stepping into 2025 with great dynamism and enthusiasm, Hong Kong is set to host an array of high-profile events spanning business, sports, arts, and culture. “Hong Kong is entering the new year with energy and glamour, full of exciting events that highlight our dynamic cosmopolitan spirit,” stated the Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs to the European Union, Ms Shirley Yung.

         In 2024, Hong Kong recorded 45 million international arrivals, nearly 10 000 foreign and Mainland companies, 2 700 family offices and 4 700 start-ups, demonstrating that Hong Kong remains a magnet for visitors and businesses alike. Hong Kong is poised for further success with upcoming initiatives, such as a lowered liquor tax, to enhance its appeal to international visitors and fulfil its role as the international financial, trade and shipping centre.

         “Hong Kong’s distinct advantages were recognised in the latest international rankings,” Ms Yung said during the receptions, noting that Hong Kong is ranked among the world’s top three international financial centres, the freest economy in the world, and among the top five in global competitiveness. Ms Yung elaborated that global investors continue to have confidence in Hong Kong, as evidenced by the continuous inflow of funds and growth in bank deposits. The asset and wealth management sector in Hong Kong is also handling over US$4 trillion, representing more than a 30 per cent increase in six years.

         HKETO, Brussels also highlighted Hong Kong as a hub for international cultural exchange, where East meets West. In Lisbon, guests experienced a unique cultural fusion centred on ballet that blends classical technique with contemporary sensibility, performed by Lam Chun-wing, a well-known Hong Kong-born ballet dancer, and an original transcription of Debussy’s “Prélude” for piano solo by the renowned French pianist Alexandre Tharaud. The performance was accompanied by breathtaking video projections specifically produced for the occasion, showcasing Hong Kong’s lesser-known natural landscapes and revealing a side of Hong Kong far removed from its urban reputation as a bustling financial hub of skyscrapers and dense modernity.

         In The Hague, an ensemble of talented Hong Kong musicians presented a vibrant mix of popular cantopop songs and moving opera arias. The outstanding performance by the soprano and tenor singers, accompanied by keyboard, won enthusiastic applause from the audience.

         The receptions in Luxembourg, Lisbon, The Hague and Bucharest brought together 700 guests, including officials from national governments, consulates and embassies, financial and business sectors, academia, cultural and creative sectors, media and the Chinese community. They were co-organised with Invest Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council; the Luxembourg Chamber of Commence and the China-Luxembourg Chamber of Commercefor the reception in Luxembourg, the Netherlands Hong Kong Business Association for the reception in The Hague, with the support of The Portugal-Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce and Industry for the reception in Lisbon, and the National Confederation for Female Entrepreneurship for the reception in Bucharest.                                          

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Unified Payments Interface (UPI) provides an opportunity to other countries to learn from the Indian experience – Professor Carlos Montes, Cambridge Business School

    Source: Government of India

    Unified Payments Interface (UPI) provides an opportunity to other countries to learn from the Indian experience – Professor Carlos Montes, Cambridge Business School

    UPI transactions in month of January, 2025 surpassed 16.99 billion and the value exceeded ₹‎23.48 lakh crore, marking the highest number recorded in any month

    Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 11:01PM by PIB Delhi

    Prof. Carlos Montes, who is on a tour to India for attending and speaking at the NXT event at the Bharat Mandapam tomorrow, was briefed about the working and achievements of UPI system, today.

    Prof. Carlos leads the Innovation Hub for Prosperity at the Cambridge University Business School.

    A presentation on UPI was given by the DFS and NPCI Team to Prof. Carlos Montes about the functioning,  success and trends of UPI in India. In the briefing, senior officers  from the Department of Financial Services (DFS),  M/o Finance including Shri  Sudhir Shyam    (Economic Adviser) and Shri  Jignesh Solanki (Director)  were present among  others.

    Unified Payments Interface (UPI) provides an opportunity to other countries to learn from the Indian experience and get ideas on how to adopt it in their own countries, said Professor Carlos Montes, Lead Innovation Hub, University of Cambridge Business School 

    For the first time, UPI transactions in the month of January, 2025 surpassed 16.99 billion and the value exceeded ₹‎23.48 lakh crore marking the highest number recorded in any month.

    After the demonstration, Prof. Montes said that he was glad to see the success of the UPI payment system. The growth of UPI shows that the government is making sure that the technology that they develop is user friendly for citizens, and that there is a regular and constant innovation in the same which explains the high adoption rate of UPI in India, Prof. Montes added. He further said that it  also has potential for other countries to learn from the experience and get ideas on how to adopt it in their own countries.

    For FY 2023-24, the digital payments landscape has demonstrated remarkable expansion. UPI remains the cornerstone of India’s digital payment ecosystem contributing to 80% of the retail payments across the country. The total transaction volume exceeded 131 billion and the value exceeded ₹‎200 lakh crore for the FY 2023-24. Its ease of use, combined with a growing network of participating banks and fintech platforms, has made UPI the preferred mode of real-time payments for millions of users across the country.

    As of Jan, 2025, 80+ UPI Apps , 641 banks  are currently live on UPI ecosystem. In FY 24-25 (till Jan, 2025), the P2M transactions contribute 62.35% and P2P transactions contribute 37.65% of the overall UPI volume. The contribution of P2M transactions reached 62.35% in Jan, 2025 where 86% of these transactions are upto a value of INR 500. This indicates the trust that UPI enjoys among citizens for making low value payments.

    UPI: Transactions (by Volume in mn) for Jan’2025

     

     

    UPI Global Expansion:

    Shri Sudhir Shyam, Economic Adviser at Department of Financial Services (DFS) said that India’s digital payments revolution is extending beyond its borders. UPI is rapidly expanding globally, enabling seamless cross-border transactions for Indians traveling abroad. Currently, UPI is live in over 7 countries, including key markets such as [UAE, Singapore, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, France, Mauritius], allowing Indians to make payments internationally. This expansion will further bolster remittance flows, improve financial inclusion, and elevate India’s stature in the global financial landscape.

    Sh. Sundar also said that some other countries have also shown interest in UPI.

    Demonstration of UPI

    Sh. Jignesh Solanki added that while volume of total online transactions have increased massively over the years, the share is taken by UPI mainly due to ease and low cost of the transactions. Government is focussed on bringing new innovations that will help UPI expand in uncovered areas as well.

    The session ended with a small demonstration of working of UPI to the delegation as well.

    ******

    NB/AD

    (Release ID: 2106794) Visitor Counter : 23

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The Councils ongoing commitment to securing and preserving heritage buildings

    Source: City of Preston

    In recent months, Preston City Council has identified numerous empty buildings within the city centre where community safety, preventing anti-social behaviour and/or preserving their heritage value needs to be addressed.

    Most of these buildings are in private ownership and so the Council has established a task group to oversee and co-ordinate action. This includes a range of departments from the Council and representatives from the Police and Fire Service.

    A liaison group with representatives from Preserving Preston’s Heritage has also been set up.

    The Council has taken steps to obtain ownership details and make contact with owners to draw attention to the risk to their property.

    Owners of the priority buildings have been invited to meet with the task group, but so far only two have replied.

    Furthermore, for certain listed buildings identified which are showing the most deterioration, it has been necessary for the Council to assess the risk to understand the extent of deterioration and damage, assess the scope of works needed to remedy it, decide whether statutory action is warranted and what type of action is appropriate.  

    Councillor Amber Afzal, Cabinet Member for Planning and Regulation at Preston City Council said:

    By adopting a joined up, multi-agency approach to tackling the complex issues that have blighted these properties through years of neglect, good progress is now being made. Public safety is our main concern but it is critical that also, wherever possible, we retain our heritage buildings that are so important to Preston’s history and give the city its unique cultural identity.

    Councillor Valerie Wise, Cabinet Member for Community Wealth Building and the City Regeneration portfolio at Preston City Council is also keen to see a brighter future for these neglected buildings. She said:

    Repurposing and bringing back to life these forgotten and unloved architectural gems, many of which are listed, is so important in the overall regeneration plans for the city.

    We will continue to work closely with the owners and landlords of these special interest properties to rejuvenate the city centre in the best possible way for future economic growth and architectural benefit.

    An update on the most significant cases is provided as follows:

    27 Winckley Square (former home of Edith Rigby) – Grade II listed building

    The Council has taken action and been engaging with the owners for some time in connection with community safety, preventing anti-social behaviour and/or preserving the heritage value of the building.

    Certain steps have been taken by the owners, but the Council are of the view that further work is necessary.

    The Council has previously instructed a survey of the building to assess its condition, which identified numerous concerns. Due to the condition of the building, it was not possible to complete the survey of the inside of the building.

    In December 2024 measures were taken by the owner to provide structural support to allow an internal survey to be carried out.

    The internal survey was carried out this week (week commencing 24 February), which will enable the Council to determine the scope of works necessary to remedy the deterioration and whether statutory action is warranted.

    This will be communicated to the owner in the first instance.

    The Council is aware the rooflight is open to the elements and the owner has confirmed that temporary measures will be taken to weatherproof the rooflight. This is an appropriate course of action until the scope of necessary repair works, which will include this, is determined.    

    The Old Dog Inn – Grade II listed building

    The Council has drawn the owner’s attention to the rear wall, which contains numerous cracks, some of which are significant in size and if not addressed could lead to an uncontrolled collapse.

    In an attempt to address the deterioration, the owner submitted a listed building consent application proposing to demolish and rebuild the rear wall. This was carefully assessed and following the submission of further information concerning the methodology of the work, listed building consent was granted in February 2025.

    The listed building consent was accompanied with a letter informing the owner that given the condition of the rear wall had worsened and to prevent an uncontrolled collapse of the rear wall, the Council is actively considering the use of statutory enforcement powers to execute works urgently necessary for the preservation of the building.

    To that end, the Council instructed a survey of the building, which has been carried out, to inform the owner of what steps are needed to prevent an uncontrolled collapse.

    The owner is fully aware that unless the necessary works are completed within an appropriate timeframe then the works could be carried out by the Council in default.  

    St. Joseph’s Orphanage, Mount Street – complex of Grade II listed buildings

    Planning permission and listed building consent were both granted in February 2021 for alterations to the Chapel and attached tower, demolition of five listed buildings and the erection of three apartment blocks and ten town houses.

    Three out of the five buildings have been demolished. One building, adjoining the tower, has been partially demolished.

    The other building adjacent to Mount Street was the subject of a fire in November 2024. The fire has left this building unsafe and dangerous, and Mount Street was closed as a result until the building is demolished to protect the public.

    The delays in the demolition have largely been due to satisfying the Health and Safety Executive that the demolition methodology satisfactorily addressed the removal of asbestos and the safety of the building and those adjoining, the demolition contractors and members of the public.

    Ground works commenced this week, and the demolition will start on 03 March 2025, and it is expected to be completed in 12-weeks.

    Harris Institute, Grade II* listed building

    The Council has taken action and is engaging with the owner in connection the deterioration of the building and its future preservation.

    Certain steps have been taken by the owner, which include remediation works to the party wall, repairing the roof and addressing the water ingress, and eradicating dry rot, the latter takes time to treat and remove.

    Planning permission and listed building consent were both granted in December 2024 for minor alterations, several community and office uses, and holiday lets within Regent House.

    The owner has responded positively and has recently met with the Council to provide an update on the future of the building.

    The approved scheme for the building will be delivered in phases, with the holiday lets opening first before the rest of the scheme is delivered.

    Additional Information

    • Grade II* listed – This has greater importance as a heritage asset.

    Preston City Council actively applies and prioritises the principles of Community Wealth Building wherever applicable and appropriate.

    Community Wealth Building is an approach which aims to ensure the economic system builds wealth and prosperity for everyone.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Councils collaborate on devolution plans

    Source: City of Plymouth

    In a bold move towards greater local autonomy, the Leaders of Plymouth City Council, Devon County Council, and Torbay Council are working together to explore the creation of a Mayoral Strategic Authority.

    A part of the Government’s new devolution plans, this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to take power out of Whitehall, bring decision-making closer to the people of Devon, Plymouth and Torbay and unlock unprecedented opportunities for growth and innovation.

    A Mayoral Strategic Authority promises to supercharge the region’s ability to access greater powers and unlock additional funding for economic growth and infrastructure development, such as housing and transport.

    By working together, the councils aim to ensure that Devon, Plymouth and Torbay are ready to seize this unique opportunity when the government calls for further submissions of interest.

    Councillor Tudor Evans OBE, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said, “Devolution is a game-changer for our communities. The devolution of powers and funding to local decision makers will enhance our ability to focus on our priorities such as increasing investment in our roads and public transport, providing better access to education and skills, tackling health inequalities and building new homes.

    “By exploring the formation of a Mayoral Strategic Authority with Devon and Torbay, we’re taking decisive action to ensure that the region can harness the full benefits of local control and enhanced public services.

    “Whilst Plymouth, Devon and Torbay are different places with our own cultures and identities, we also share distinct geographic characteristics, have clearly established economic connections, share existing public service boundaries, and of course already work together closely across a number of major programmes. By working together we can not only unlock greater powers and funding, but we can also ensure that our unique interests are understood by central government.”

    Councillor James McInnes, Leader of Devon County Council, commented: “The formation of a mayoral strategic authority represents an opportunity for Devon, Plymouth and Torbay to speak with one voice at Westminster and attract significant additional funding and autonomy for the county of Devon.

    “Other English regions have delivered more integrated transport networks, kickstarted economic development and focussed on health improvements for their residents through a mayoral model. We have already delivered a successful combined authority deal for Devon and Torbay and it is absolutely right we work together, and with the Government, to explore the potential benefits of deeper devolution for those we serve. Our part of the world is already a fantastic place to live and to do business. This has the potential to make it even better for all.”

    Councillor David Thomas, Leader of Torbay Council, added, “The Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority already gives us and our residents and businesses a stronger voice with Government.  Working together – as councils and with the Government and our stakeholders – is key to us meeting our ambitions.

    “It is really important that we explore the benefits that a Mayoral Strategic Authority could achieve for Devon, Plymouth and Torbay.  Without exploring this there is a risk that our area will be left behind. We cannot allow that to happen”.

    The councils also emphasised that Cornwall Council is welcome to join their discussions at any time, should they choose to reconsider. This inclusive approach highlights the commitment to regional cooperation and shared prosperity.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Questions surrounding the real role played by Internews, a partner of the EU and the Commission – P-000796/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-000796/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Mathilde Androuët (PfE)

    The aim of Internews, an NGO, is to train and support journalists and ‘independent media’ and to promote ‘human rights’ and ‘access to trustworthy information’ all over the world[1]. Internews maintains close partnerships with the EU and the Commission[2] under financial framework partnership agreements and specific projects such as AGILE[3].

    WikiLeaks has revealed that 87 % of Internews’ funding over the past 17 years came from the United States Agency for International Development, including during Donald Trump’s first term of office, and later from the State Department and controversial organisations such as the Open Society Foundations. This financial dependence raises concerns about the editorial independence of Internews.

    The President and CEO of Internews, who has close links to the foreign policy of the US administration[4], has also been criticised for her support for global advertising ‘exclusion lists’, which could lead to subjective and unjustified censorship of certain online content[5].

    On the basis of the information available to the Commission before it entered into its partnership with Internews, what is the Commission’s assessment of the proximity of this NGO to the US Government and of the fact that significant funds have apparently been channelled through Internews to support censorship and media-monitoring initiatives?

    Submitted: 20.2.2025

    • [1] https://internews.org/
    • [2] ‘InfoPoint conference: Supporting independent media through global partnerships’, European Commission, https://international-partnerships.ec.europa.eu/news-and-events/events/infopoint-conference-supporting-independent-media-through-global-partnerships-2024-12-05_en
    • [3] ‘Supporting Independent Media Through Global Partnerships: A post-event statement from Internews and its FFPA consortium partners’, Internews, https://internews.org/supporting-independent-media-through-global-partnerships-a-post-event-statement-from-internews-and-its-ffpa-consortium-partners/
    • [4] https://skoll.org/attendee/jeanne-bourgault/
    • [5] ‘WikiLeaks reveals US spent $472.6M to promote covert censorship, media control through NGO’, Yasin Gungor, Anadolu Agency, 9 February 2025.
    Last updated: 28 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Trade agreement with Mercosur – P-002472/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In accordance with the negotiating directive by the Council, the Commission is negotiating the EU-Mercosur Agreement as a comprehensive agreement that encompasses trade, political and cooperation pillars. All these aspects are intrinsically linked and intended to be applied simultaneously.

    The decision on the legal architecture has not been taken yet. The Commission will determine the legal basis after a legal assessment taking into account the content of the agreement when transmitting the agreement to the Council and the European Parliament for signature and conclusion. Regardless of the final outcome, any chosen legal architecture would be fully democratic and in line with the Treaties.

    Last updated: 28 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Grão-Pará Maranhão project and financing decision under the EU Global Gateway – E-000012/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission has not taken such decisions. In relation to other financial institutions such as the European Investment Bank (EIB), the Commission invites the Honourable Member to address those entities, the Commission is in any case not aware of any EIB decisions to finance the project.

    The Grão-Pará Maranhão project is at a very early stage of proposal development, the Commission has not received requests for financial support and as such it has not taken any financing decision regarding this project.

    Last updated: 28 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –