NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Staff Conclude Article IV Discussions and Reach Staff-Level Agreement on the Second Review under the Extended Credit Facility

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    October 31, 2024

    End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    • IMF staff and the Somali authorities have reached a staff level agreement on the second review under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF). Program performance has been strong, demonstrating the authorities’ steadfast commitment to macroeconomic stability and strengthening institutional capacity and frameworks.
    • Real GDP growth has been upgraded to 4 percent for 2024 and 2025 based on strong exports and remittances. However, risks remain elevated, including from regional and domestic security developments, commodity prices and climate shocks.
    • Sustained reform efforts are needed to set the conditions for greater resilience, poverty reduction, and inclusive growth. This includes strengthening tax capacity and public financial management, promoting financial deepening, and improving governance.

    Washington, DC: A staff team from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), led by Ms. Laura Jaramillo, conducted discussions with the Somali authorities in Istanbul and in Washington DC on the 2024 Article IV consultation and reached a staff-level agreement on the second review of the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement that was approved by the IMF’s Executive Board in December 2023 (Press Release No. 23/463). This agreement is subject to approval of the IMF’s Executive Board.  

    At the conclusion of the discussions, Ms. Jaramillo issued the following statement:

    “Somalia’s real GDP growth outlook has improved, though challenges and risks remain significant. Positive trends in agriculture, exports, and remittances in 2024 are expected to continue in 2025. As a result, real GDP growth has been upgraded to 4 percent in 2024 and 2025, up by an average ¼ percentage point compared to previous forecasts. Inflation is expected to continue on a downward trend to 4.5 percent by end 2024, although the pace is slower than anticipated earlier. Despite security challenges, the Somali government remains steadfast in its fight against terrorism and continues to work with international partners to ensure a successful transition from the current African Union Transition Mission to a new force by January 2025. Near-term risks to the outlook include climate shocks, domestic and regional security developments, lower global growth, and higher commodity prices.

    “The authorities continue to focus on raising domestic revenue, aiming to fully cover operational expenditure with domestic revenues by 2027, while also accommodating higher education and health spending. Fiscal outturns in 2024 have been in line with expectations, and an overall deficit of 0.2 percent of GDP is expected for the year. The 2025 draft budget envisages domestic revenues of 3.3 percent of GDP and an overall fiscal deficit of 0.2 percent of GDP, assuming continued access to grant financing, which remains critical for Somalia.

    “The authorities recognize the importance of making steady progress on fiscal reforms. Key revenue measures—guided by the recently published Medium-term Revenue Roadmap—include the ongoing customs modernization, a new income tax law, and stronger enforcement of sales and income taxes. Public financial management continues to be strengthened, with important progress made on payroll integrity. Reforms to improve the debt management framework and capacity are also progressing well. Measures are also being taken to finalize the extractive industries legal framework, including to enhance transparency and accountability.

    “The Central Bank of Somalia (CBS) is advancing institutional governance and financial sector reforms. Focus is on promoting financial deepening, including by enhancing the legislative and oversight frameworks, improving the quality of regulatory data, and augmenting CBS technical capacity. Efforts continue to strengthen the framework for anti-money laundering and the combating the financing of terrorism to comply with international standards.

    “The authorities intend to reintroduce the Somalia Shilling (SOS) and adopt a currency board arrangement. The new SOS notes will provide an important liquidity function by facilitating payments for small value transactions and will promote financial inclusion for the most vulnerable. To provide a stable and predictable policy environment to ensure confidence in SOS across Somalia, the authorities are also starting preparations for introducing a currency board arrangement, with IMF capacity development support. Implementation of these reforms would take an estimated 18-24 months after prerequisites are in place, including necessary external financing.

    “The authorities are also committed to advancing steps to bolster inclusive growth and poverty reduction, improve resilience to climate shocks, and enhance trade integration. Raising human capital by increasing the educational attainment of Somali children and closing gender gaps in education can bring significant growth dividends. Building resilience against climate shocks and strengthening food security is also a priority. Given Somalia’s very limited resources, financing and technical assistance support from international partners remains crucial. The East African Community presents important opportunities, challenges, and risks for Somalia and the integration process needs to be managed carefully.  

    “The mission would like to express gratitude to Somali authorities for constructive and fruitful discussions. Meetings were held with the Minister of Finance, Minister of Petroleum, the CBS Governor, other government officials, development partners, and representatives from the private sector.”

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Mayada Ghazala

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    @IMFSpokesperson

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2024/10/31/pr-24401-somalia-imf-staff-conclude-aiv-discussions-and-reach-sla-on-the-2nd-rev-under-the-ecf

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Kemp: SOLARCYCLE Accelerates Plans for Polk County Operation

    Source: US State of Georgia

     Atlanta, GA – Governor Brian P. Kemp today announced that SOLARCYCLE, an advanced technology-based solar recycling company, will accelerate its expansion into Polk County to meet increasing demand for solar panel recycling services. The company is investing an additional $62 million to increase its panel recycling capacity to 10 million solar panels per year and create 640 new full-time jobs.

    “As Georgia continues to lead the nation in attracting jobs from emerging industries, we’re thankful SOLARCYCLE is moving up creation of these opportunities in northwest Georgia, benefitting that entire region’s economy,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “I want to thank our local and state partners who made this accelerated growth in Polk County possible, and I look forward to its impact in the years to come.”

    The facility is located directly across the street from the company’s previously announced 1.1-million-square-foot solar glass factory that will employ an additional 617 people. The factory will use recycled materials from retired solar panels from the recycling facility to make five to six gigawatts worth of solar glass every year. The factory positions the company as one of the first manufacturers of specialized glass for crystalline-silicon (c-Si) photovoltaics in the U.S.

    “We are pleased to accelerate our work in Cedartown in partnership with Governor Kemp and Polk County. In response to continued demand for solar recycling and domestic manufacturing, we will be able to scale operations and begin hiring sooner than originally planned,” said Suvi Sharma, CEO and Co-Founder at SOLARCYCLE. “We applaud Governor Kemp for his leadership supporting clean energy policy that has made it possible to scale solar manufacturing in the state, and bring good jobs and meaningful investment to local communities as a result. This is exactly what the future of American manufacturing looks like and SOLARCYCLE is proud to be at the helm.”

    SOLARCYCLE has acquired an existing building at 270 North Park Boulevard in Cedartown, adjacent to the new facility under construction at Cedartown North Business Park, a Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development (GRAD) certified site. The existing 255,000-square-foot building will be renovated to house the company’s solar panel recycling operations.

    The facility is move-in-ready and will be operational in the second half of 2025. SOLARCYCLE is hiring full-time jobs in manufacturing, engineering, management, research and design, and support staff. Open roles are available at www.solarcycle.us/careers.

    “The decision by SOLARCYCLE to expedite their manufacturing process by refurbishing a currently vacant facility and creating additional employment opportunities is a true testament to their commitment as a long-term corporate sponsor in Cedartown-Polk County,” said Chris Thomas, President and CEO of Development Authority of Polk County. “This expansion not only underscores the confidence that businesses have in our community as a place to invest but also promises significant economic benefits.  We are excited about the opportunities this expansion brings and remain dedicated to supporting SOLARCYCLE’s continued growth and success.”

    Senior Regional Project Manager Lori Dowdy represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s (GDEcD) Global Commerce team on this competitive project in partnership with the Development Authority of Polk County, Georgia Power, and Georgia Quick Start.

    “SOLARCYCLE’s technology is important because it takes materials that would otherwise end up in a landfill and puts them back in the supply chain, effectively reducing our reliance on importing new materials,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Northwest Georgia has been a center of manufacturing in Georgia for decades – from providing the flooring we use in our homes and offices to now producing technology for clean energy to power those same buildings. We are excited that our partners and SOLARCYCLE were able to work together to bring the company’s recycling operations online earlier.”

    Georgia is a Top Ten state for installed solar, ranking seventh by cumulative solar capacity, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association. Georgia’s energy solutions providers are helping to accelerate the development of renewable energy products by lowering risks, reducing costs, providing access to innovative industry research, and investing in a superior infrastructure network.

    About SOLARCYCLE

    SOLARCYCLE is a technology-driven platform designed to maximize solar sustainability by offering solar asset owners a low-cost, eco-friendly, comprehensive process for recycling retiring solar panels and technologies and repurposing them for new uses. The company’s proprietary technology allows it to extract 95% of the value from solar panels, such as silver, silicon, copper, and aluminum, and to recycle or repurpose panels for new uses. Experts in solar technology, recycling, and sustainability founded SOLARCYCLE in 2022 to accelerate the circular economy for solar and renewables. www.SOLARCYCLE.us.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: 9th European Migration Forum

    Source: European Union 2

    This year’s Forum under the theme “Enhancing the role of civil society in implementing the Pact on Migration and Asylum”, aims to bring civil society organisations together to discuss and engage with EU Member States and policymakers on the challenges and opportunities related to the implementation of the Pact on Migration and Asylum.

    The EMF will particularly address four areas of the Pact:

    Discussions will also focus on the safeguarding of the fundamental rights of migrants and refugees.

    About the Forum

    The European Migration Forum is a platform for dialogue between civil society and European institutions on issues related to migration, asylum, and migrant integration. The aim of the forum is to enhance coordination and cooperation between key players involved in the multilevel European governance of migration.

    As in its previous editions, the Forum’s 9th meeting will seek to ensure an interactive and participatory approach from participants and EU policymakers alike. The event will consist of breakout sessions, working groups related to the four areas, and a practical workshop on financial support. The Forum’s working language will be English.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: InvestiRay: BaFin warns consumers about the website investi-ray.com

    Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English

    The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) warns consumers about the website investi-ray.com. According to information available to BaFin, financial and investment services are being provided on these websites without the required authorisation. The company is not supervised by BaFin.

    The operator claims to be supervised by “Crypto Assets Control”, which is not an official financial market authority. Anyone providing financial or investment services in Germany may do so only with authorisation from BaFin. Crypto Assets Control does not have the power to grant such authorisation.

    Information on whether particular companies have been authorised by BaFin can be found in BaFin’s database of companies.

    Theinformation provided by BaFin is based on section 37 (4) of the German Banking Act (Kreditwesengesetz – KWG).

    Please be aware:

    BaFin, the German Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt – BKA) and the German state criminal police offices (Landeskriminalämter) recommend that consumers seeking to invest money online should exercise the utmost caution and do the necessary research beforehand in order to identify fraud attempts at an early stage.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ECB publishes consolidated banking data for end-June 2024

    Source: European Central Bank

    31 October 2024

    Chart 1

    Total assets of credit institutions headquartered in the EU

    (EUR billions)

    Source: ECB

    Note: Data for all reference periods relate to the EU27.

    Data on the aggregate of total assets of credit institutions headquartered in the EU

    Chart 2

    Non-performing loans ratio of credit institutions headquartered in the EU

    (EUR billions; percentages)

    Source: ECB

    Note: Data for all reference periods relate to the EU27.

    Data on the aggregate non-performing loans ratio of credit institutions headquartered in the EU

    Chart 3

    Return on equity of credit institutions headquartered in the EU in June 2024

    (percentages)

    Source: ECB

    Note: Data for all reference periods relate to the EU27.

    Data on the aggregate return on equity of credit institutions headquartered in the EU

    Chart 4

    Common Equity Tier 1 ratio of credit institutions headquartered in the EU in June 2024

    (percentages)

    Source: ECB

    Note: Data for all reference periods relate to the EU27.

    Data on the aggregate Common Equity Tier 1 ratio of credit institutions headquartered in the EU

    The European Central Bank (ECB) has published consolidated banking data as at end-June 2024, a dataset for the EU banking system compiled on a group consolidated basis.

    The quarterly data provide information required to analyse the EU banking sector and comprise a subset of the information that is available in the year-end dataset. The data cover 344 banking groups and 2374 stand-alone credit institutions and non-EU controlled subsidiaries and branches operating in the EU, accounting for nearly 100% of the EU banking sector’s balance sheet. They include an extensive range of indicators on profitability and efficiency, balance sheet composition, liquidity and funding, asset quality, asset encumbrance, capital adequacy and solvency. Aggregates and indicators are published for the reporting population.

    Reporters generally apply International Financial Reporting Standards and the European Banking Authority’s Implementing Technical Standards on Supervisory Reporting. However, some small and medium-sized reporters may apply national accounting standards. Accordingly, aggregates and indicators may include some data that are based on national accounting standards, depending on the availability of the underlying items.

    In addition to data as at end-June 2024, the published figures also include a few revisions to past data.

    For media queries, please contact Nicos Keranis, tel.: +49 69 1344 5482.

    Notes

    • These consolidated banking data are available in the ECB Data Portal.
    • More information about the methodology used to compile the data is available on the ECB’s website.
    • Hyperlinks in the main body of the press release lead to data that may change with subsequent releases as a result of revisions.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Victims, Witnesses, and Justice Reform Bill update

    Source: Scottish Government

    Amendments to landmark legislation.

    Justice Secretary Angela Constance has updated Parliament on proposed amendments to the Victims, Witnesses, and Justice Reform Bill.

    The Justice Secretary told MSPs that, having listened to the cross-party Criminal Justice Committee and a wide range of other views, a plan to enable a time-limited pilot of single-judge trials for rape and attempted rape cases will not be pursued.

    The Government also plans to amend the Bill, subject to MSPs’ approval, to enable more detailed research into jury deliberations, including how rape myths may affect verdicts.

    The Bill includes measures to remove Scotland’s ‘not proven’ verdict and to increase the current simple majority required for a criminal conviction to a two-thirds majority of jurors. However, in line with committee recommendations, proposals to cut the jury size from 15 to 12 will be dropped.

    Victims of crime are to receive improved support, advice and information as part of planned reforms to the Victim Notification Scheme – to be delivered through the Bill – as announced earlier this month.

    Ms Constance said:

    “This Bill proposes a significant package of reforms to ensure victims are placed at the heart of Scotland’s justice system, such as creating a specialist Sexual Offences Court, establishing a Victims & Witnesses Commissioner and abolishing the ‘not proven’ verdict.

    “I want to build as much consensus as possible for this important legislation. Clearly there is not enough parliamentary support at this time for the proposal to enable a time-limited pilot of single-judge trials for cases of rape and attempted rape, so we will no longer pursue this.

    “I remain concerned by the substantial evidence that juries may be influenced by rape myths and I will introduce amendments to the Bill to allow for more detailed research into jury deliberations. We will undertake further work with justice partners to agree how to challenge and reduce the impact of rape myths. This might include, for example, further interventions or educational resources for jurors and the wider public.

    “I believe that the most prudent approach to jury reform, including the abolition of the ‘not proven’ verdict, is to seek support for a model with two verdicts – ‘guilty’ and ‘not guilty’ – 15 jurors, and a two-thirds majority requirement for conviction.

    “I look forward to working with partners and colleagues across Parliament to deliver what I believe is a shared ambition to ensure victims and witnesses are placed at the heart of the justice system and treated with compassion.”

    Background

    Justice Secretary’s letter to the Criminal Justice Committee

    Improved support for crime victims

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Report by the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities: UK response, October 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Ambassador Holland says the OSCE is uniquely placed to view the climate crisis though a security lens.

    Location:
    Vienna
    Delivered on:
    (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

    It has been more than six months since your inaugural address in your new role, and we continue to remain dismayed by the devastating economic and environmental effects Russia’s war of choice against Ukraine are having on our region.  

    We are pleased that your office continues to work on assessing the environmental impact of Russia’s war. The careful documentation of environmental damage provided by this project and its recommendations will be invaluable in holding Russia to account and supporting Ukraine’s recovery efforts after the war. 

    Water management was the theme of EEDIM earlier this week. As I said there, we must recognise that rivers, lakes, aquifers and glaciers often straddle borders, so regional cooperation and cross-border solutions are crucial to prevent conflicts over control of water resources.   

    At the same time, the scarcity of this natural resource is tied up with the threats posed by climate change. The OSCE is uniquely placed to view the climate crisis though a security lens, and we welcome the work your office has done via your climate security project to identify where these risks are most acute.   

    Alongside conflict and economic opportunity, climate change is one of many drivers of migration. If migration is not safe, orderly and regular it can make those on the move vulnerable to risks, put a strain on communities, and undermine public confidence in states’ and the international community’s ability to manage migration effectively.  

    In this vein, the UK is pleased to be able to contribute to the project “Strengthening the evidence-based understanding of the climate change, migration and security nexus in South-Eastern Europe”, which, as you highlight in your report, should improve our understanding of the interlinkages between climate change and human mobility, as well as of the impacts of emigration and depopulation on the environment. 

    Our work to combat money laundering and illicit finance is made more challenging by innovations in digital finance and the increasing use of virtual assets, including by serious organised crime. The UK co-funds the ExB project “Innovative Policy Solutions to Mitigate Money Laundering Risks of Virtual Assets” to build capacity in Central Asia, Eastern Europe and the South Caucasus, to deal with this fast-evolving area. 

    Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the outgoing chair of the second dimension committee and thank Ambassador Raunig for chairing this committee so ably, including by keeping the war against Ukraine a focus of the committee’s work. We look forward to working with the new chair of the second dimension committee in addressing the most pressing economic and environmental issues facing our region. 

    Ambassador, thank you again for your report, and we look forward to supporting you and your able team in the months ahead.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 October 2024

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Charity Commission Annual Public Meeting 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Charity Commission Chair, Orlando Fraser KC, and Chief Executive, David Holdsworth, invite you to our Annual Public Meeting on Tuesday 26 November at 11:00am.

    You are invited to join our Annual Public Meeting on Tuesday 26 November 2024 at 11:00am. Attend in-person in London or join online via our livestream.

    About the event

    Our Chair Orlando Fraser KC, Chief Executive David Holdsworth and colleagues will provide updates and insight into the Commission’s activities and answer questions about our work.

    This is a hybrid event open to all members of the public and charity representatives who wish to attend in-person or join online.

    In-person attendees will have the opportunity to visit our exhibition stands and speak to members of our staff both before and after the main meeting. In addition, a light lunch will be available at the conclusion of the main meeting, with an opportunity to network.

    This event is free of charge but registration is required. Please book online to join this event in-person or online.

    Date & Time

    Tuesday 26 November 2024

    11:00am to 12:30pm

    In-person attendees should please arrive from 10:00am for registration.

    Venue

    Kings Place (Hall 2)
    90 York Way
    London
    N1 9AG

    Our privacy notice for the live broadcast of our Annual Public Meeting can be found on GOV.UK.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Representatives of the architectural bureau “DA bureau” shared their experience and told how to find the desired job without having any experience

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Kamila Gilmutdinova and Olga Belyakova

    SPbGASU is holding a competition for the best concept for the main building lobby among students. Our university graduates who have achieved success in the profession have been invited as experts to evaluate the competition entries. In order to improve the students’ professional competencies, they also hold educational lectures. One of them was given by leading architect Olga Belyakova and senior architect Kamila Gilmutdinova from the architectural bureau “DA bureau”, which implements projects in Russia and abroad.

    Olga Belyakova and Kamila Gilmutdinova graduated from SPbGASU in different years and believe that they received a high-quality education, but they emphasize: in order to remain a sought-after specialist in today’s reality, an architect must study all his life, but in a bachelor’s degree it is better to focus on studying. Because the work requires a lot of time and effort, which is why there is a high risk of getting significant gaps in basic knowledge. But in these years, participation in competitions, workshops, summer schools, inter-university events, and training courses are encouraged.

    “These are great stories that help not only expand professional knowledge and skills, but also develop communication skills, provide new useful contacts in areas of interest to you. This is no less important for successful activity,” the experts believe.

    First of all, they paid attention to the range of job responsibilities of a practicing architect. Thus, work on a project includes not only design, but also interaction with the customer, builders, specialists in related industries, approvals and edits, budget allocation, adherence to the schedule and even periodic emotional and professional burnout. But all this is compensated by the successful implementation of projects. And it, in turn, is impossible not only without professionalism, but also without love for the specialty.

    “It is the love for the work and the creative approach that unite the teams of our bureau,” emphasized Olga Belyakova. Kamilla Gilmutdinova added: “We do not simply design objects, we write their unique history through design and architectural forms.”

    During the lecture, they, relying on their own projects, told how to design and implement objects with an area from ten square meters to thirteen hectares. Among them are offices, restaurants, shops, and other spaces. Kamila Gilmutdinova demonstrated a completed project of a cultural heritage site, which became a successful example of the fact that architecture does not dictate a concept. Inspired by natural phenomena, the architect used color effects, digital technologies, and distributed zones without major redevelopment. Speaking about her project of a jewelry store, Olga Belyakova advised carefully studying the customer’s technical specifications and working out all the details. Because in this case, even improper lighting and installation of mirrors can reduce sales several times.

    “A competent and beautiful design attracts a large number of visitors, the right lighting allows you to present jewelry favorably, and mirrors placed in the most advantageous places emphasize their beauty when trying on. Zoning by means of lighting helped to create a kind of navigator for customers who easily find the necessary department. We also added a unique digital element – a robotic arm, which is clearly visible from the street and attracts passers-by, therefore, potential customers. When designing stores, you should always proceed from the product range. This is one of the main rules,” Olga reminded.

    Kamila added that there are limitations in the design of any object, and they are the ones that create the rules for the architect, and therefore the project itself. Therefore, they need to be clarified at the beginning of the work.

    The numerous projects demonstrated interested the students so much that they not only clarified the smallest details in working on them, but also asked the main question: “Is it possible to get a job in a bureau if you have no experience, and what competencies do you need to have in order to attract attention?” It turned out that the lack of experience for a young specialist is not an obstacle to employment. The main thing is to have a desire to work, improve professional knowledge, the ability to work in a team, have communication skills, since the profession involves constant interaction with many people. And be proactive, and not automatically carry out assigned tasks.

    “When selecting candidates, we are also interested in their hobbies. This fact confirms the versatility of a person and the ability to organize their time. It will be much easier to work if you have a sense of humor and are not afraid to ask experienced colleagues about incomprehensible things. During the probationary period, we evaluate not only technical skills, but also pay attention to these personal qualities,” the architects said.

    In addition, they advised to learn now how to use your time rationally for work and rest, learn foreign languages, set priorities in order to understand where you need to spend more effort for the effectiveness of work or study. Because in future professional activities you need to clearly focus on the project, the design, that is, the main things. Do not be upset because of someone else’s (even authoritative) opinion that you will not succeed, because a subjective opinion is not an assessment or a sentence. Often in practice, everything turns out the other way around, and people reach professional heights.

    “I gladly accepted the offer to act as an expert of the competition, because, firstly, I graduated from SPbGASU. Secondly, it is interesting and useful to share my experience. When I was still studying in college, a university student inspired me with her story about studying to move to St. Petersburg and further receive higher education here. As a master’s student, I attended a lecture by “DA bureau”, which inspired me even more. I hope that I will become such an inspiration for the guys,” Olga said.

    “It is always important to show the path to the profession by your own example, to inspire, because it is difficult for a young specialist to immediately understand the mechanism of work, and information from practitioners expands this understanding,” summed up Kamila Gilmutdinova.

    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 USA: Golden, colleagues urge the release of untapped LIHEAP funding

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02)

    WASHINGTON — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) yesterday joined a bipartisan group of House members requesting that U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra release the maximum dispersal of Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funding made available from the recent government funding package.

    Golden joined 15 House colleagues in sending a letter to the secretary today, as agencies in Maine are ringing alarm bells about a lack of adequate LIHEAP funds

    “To prevent a lapse in eligible families’ ability to afford their home energy bills this fall, we urge you to immediately release the highest possible amount of LIHEAP funding made available by the Continuing Resolution,” the lawmakers wrote. “It is vital to ensure our seniors and low-income families are provided sufficient resources as temperatures cool in the months ahead.”

    Congress passed a temporary spending deal in September to delay a possible government shutdown through December 20. While this agreement included LIHEAP funding at the annualized rate of over $4 billion, none of that money has been dispersed for LIHEAP recipients to date.

    “As temperatures dip below freezing at night, our agency is inundated with calls from area residents in fuel emergencies. In Aroostook County alone, the number of households qualifying for the Federal Home Energy Assistance Program has increased by 60 percent in five years,”Jason Parent, executive director and CEO of the Aroostook County Action Program said.“At the same time the average household benefit has decreased by nearly $200.  This program is a critical lifeline for so many of our vulnerable seniors and families with children in Maine.”

    “Unfortunately, the demand for this program is more than we can fund. That means more people will have a benefit, but it is going to be a smaller benefit. With higher heating costs, higher grocery and gas costs, that means real people have less money to live,” Megan Hannan, executive director of the Maine Community Action Partnership said. “Our goal is to serve as many households as possible, and to make the benefits worth the work to receive it. We hope Congress understands that people are at risk without enough money to keep their homes warm.”

    Nationwide, an estimated 5 million households receive assistance with heating and cooling costs through LIHEAP, including over 45,000 Maine households. LIHEAP is administered by states and accessed through local Community Action Agencies. Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on income, family size, and the availability of resources. More information on the LIHEAP application process can be found here.   

    Golden has successfully led several efforts to increase Mainers’ access to LIHEAP, including last Congress when he and Senator Collins secured a total of $6.1 billion for the program in FY 2023. Last September, he and the rest of Maine’s Congressional Delegation secured an additional $38 million for Mainers in FY 2024, including $1.4 million for Maine’s tribes.

    Full text of Golden’s letter can be found here, and is included below in full:

     

    +++

     

    October 30, 2024

    The Honorable Xavier Becerra
    Secretary
    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 
    330 C Street, SW
    Washington, D.C. 20416

    Dear Secretary Becerra:

    We write to urge the immediate release of the highest possible amount of Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funding available under the September 2024 Continuing Resolution (PL 118-83).

    As you well know, LIHEAP helps households unable to afford to heat their homes in the winter and cool their homes in the summer, providing assistance to at-risk seniors and families. In Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23), more than five million households across the country relied on critical heating assistance from the LIHEAP program. For LIHEAP recipients, this funding is a lifeline, helping prevent them from having to make an impossible choice between staying warm and putting food on the table or affording their medications.

    With the winter months rapidly approaching, releasing the highest amount of funding from the recent government funding package is critically needed to address the growing number of households unable to pay their energy bills. Continued escalation in the Middle East and Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine have increased uncertainty in the energy market and raised concerns about potential spikes in energy prices. These shifts disproportionately harm those who already struggle to heat their homes and underscore the need for robust funding for LIHEAP. Historically, LIHEAP has been an underfunded and oversubscribed program. This remained true in FY23, with only around 15 percent of qualifying households nationwide receiving heating assistance through the program.

    To prevent a lapse in eligible families’ ability to afford their home energy bills this fall, we urge you to immediately release the highest possible amount of LIHEAP funding made available by the Continuing Resolution. It is vital to ensure our seniors and low-income families are provided sufficient resources as temperatures cool in the months ahead.

    Thank you for your attention to this matter, and we look forward to working with you further on this crucial program.

    Sincerely,

     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Middlesex Biotech Alum Publishes Fruit-fly Research

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Jacqueline Guillemin, originally from the town of East Hampton, was homeschooled before deciding to pursue higher education. She wanted to further her studies but was unsure of which path to take. Her mother suggested CT State Middlesex (at that time Middlesex Community College), and it felt like an ideal choice, providing a smooth transition from homeschooling into college life.

    While at Middlesex, Jackie balanced being a full-time student with a part-time job. For a brief period, she also attended UConn as a full-time student while continuing her studies and work at Middlesex. At first, she was an environmental science major, driven by her interest in nature. However, her interests expanded when she enrolled in a biology course with Middlesex professor Frank Stellabotte, Ph.D.

    “When I took Dr. Stellabotte’s introductory biology course, I learned that the natural world had so much more to offer,” said Jackie.

    Jackie also added she was fortunate to study under several inspiring professors at Middlesex.

    “Clearly Dr. Stellabotte made an amazing impact on my education, introducing me to the topics I study today. Additionally, I would not be where I am without the support from [chemistry professor] Dr. Kimberly Thomas, who helped me find my passion for teaching in the sciences. Professor [Emerita] Donna Hylton, who gave me great guidance while working with the Computer Club as president,” Jackie said. “Honestly, I could list so many mentors from Middlesex as favorites!”

    Jackie recalls several standout Middlesex memories—from exploring genetics and zebrafish research with Dr. Stellabotte to hosting and gaming at Computer Club LAN nights.

    “Middlesex offered many opportunities to build a community and to truly feel connected which was very impactful to me,” said Jackie, who graduated from Middlesex in 2017 with an associate degree in biotechnology.

    When it came time to transfer to UConn to complete a four-year degree, Jackie again received strong support from Dr. Stellabotte along with advisor Emily Canto, who helped her build a compelling resume. Most of Jackie’s credits from Middlesex transferred smoothly, preparing her well for upper-level courses at UConn.

    Jackie went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in biology/biological sciences from UConn in 2019.

    Today, Jackie lives just outside of Burlington, VT, having chosen the University of Vermont (UVM) Department of Biology for her doctoral studies.

    “It’s a nice community of students and a broad biology program, which I appreciated for building my knowledge for a more integrative understanding of biology,” Jackie mentioned.

    At UVM’s Stanley Lab, Jackie’s research focuses on how fruit flies choose their food. She said she investigates feeding behaviors on a cellular and molecular level, seeking to understand how internal factors, like previous meals, influence their preferences.

    “We can use our knowledge of the fruit fly taste system to understand how humans integrate taste information and ways to decrease pest damage,” Jackie said.

    Jackie recently published an article in Cell Reports journal (Guillemin, 2023) describing previously unknown cellular functions in fruit flies, using innovative techniques to observe their taste response behaviors. Her findings revealed that certain cells activate upon detecting amino acids, prompting the flies to stop eating and lay eggs.

    “We use tools that allow us to modify the flies to piece together what parts are needed for taste and taste-related behaviors. Using these tools, I was able to ‘turn on’ the cell function and see what the fly does in response to that signal being sent to the brain,” Jackie explained. “Further, I can look at the brain in live flies and offer them different tastes and observe if the cell turns on to those tastes. We found that these cells turn on when in contact with protein building blocks called amino acids, and that they tell the fly to stop eating and instead lay eggs where ever they detect them.”

    Looking ahead, Jackie aims to complete her doctoral degree and hopes to secure a postdoctoral position that allows her to pursue independent research. Ultimately, she envisions a career that combines both research and teaching, passions she discovered during her time at Middlesex.

    During her time at Middlesex a decade ago, Jackie held various roles, including working in the Academic Success Center, serving as an educational assistant, and supporting the after-school STEAM Train computer training programs with Professor Hylton. At UVM, Jackie actively participates in her department’s social committee and holds a leadership position with the Out in STEM (OSTEM) group. Her teaching experience spans multiple semesters, covering subjects from genetics to comparative invertebrate physiology.

    This past summer, Jackie presented her research at the International Conference of Olfaction and Taste in Iceland, and in the fall, she attended the Society of Neuroscience conference in Chicago to showcase her latest findings for her next research paper.

    For prospective Middlesex students, Jackie encourages them to embrace every learning opportunity.

    “It may just feel like a class or two, but you are making connections for life in those classrooms. Relish in the time you have to talk with your professors about all of your favorite topics from that class,” advised Jackie. “And, most importantly, there is no such thing as a stupid question.”

    October 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: HWI to expand in Fulton, investing $13.9 million and creating 11 new jobs

    Source: US State of Missouri

    HWI (HarbisonWalker International), one of the leading suppliers of refractory products and services in the United States and member of the Calderys Group, announced today that it will expand in Fulton, investing $13.9 million and creating 11 new jobs.

    “We’re excited to see an innovative and world-class company like HWI continuing to invest in Fulton,” said Governor Mike Parson. “From day one, our administration remained committed to improving infrastructure and strengthening our workforce to ensure a thriving economy. As a result, more and more quality employers like HWI are growing and improving the lives of Missourians and their families.”

    HWI’s expansion includes the construction of an additional, state-of-the-art, lightweight monolithics refractories manufacturing facility that will increase production capacity by approximately 60 percent while enhancing product availability. The facility will feature cutting-edge technology and process automation advancements, including a new furnace and automated robotic packaging and material handling systems. HWI currently employs more than 70 people at its existing Fulton location.

    “We’re proud of our company’s more than 100-year legacy in the Callaway County community, and we are thrilled to further expand operations here,” said Ross Wilkin, Senior Vice President of Americas for Calderys Group. “Our growth in Fulton is a testament to our confidence in our people and the community.”

    HWI’s new plant will provide access to local, high-quality clay reserves, allowing the company to increase the production of its Greenlite aggregate-containing products, including the GREENLITE®-45-L family of monolithics and GREENLITE® 115 AR brick. These products are used extensively in many applications, including petrochemical, power generation, and other heater linings. Their unique strength-to-density ratios optimize thermal insulation with minimal structural bulk to reduce energy consumption and support customers’ goals. The company’s new facility is expected to be completed in July 2025.

    “HWI’s expansion in Fulton is another exciting example of the rapid growth of our state’s manufacturing industry,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Department of Economic Development. “We’re pleased to support HWI as it continues to build on its long history of helping Missourians prosper in Callaway County.”

    New jobs added as part of HWI’s expansion will pay an average wage well above the county average.

    For this expansion, HWI will benefit from the Missouri Works program, a tool that helps companies expand and retain workers by providing access to capital through withholdings or tax credits for job creation.

    What others are saying

    “This investment demonstrates our commitment to meeting our customers’ evolving needs and reinforcing our market leadership position,” said Michel Cornelissen, President and CEO of Calderys.

    “This project represents a significant step forward for our community,” said Kim Barnes, President of the Fulton Area Development Foundation. “It underscores the importance of collaboration and strategic planning in attracting high-quality investments that will benefit the residents of Callaway County for years to come.”

    “We are thrilled to see HWI’s additional growth in Callaway County,” said Callaway County Commissioner Gary Jungermann. “This expansion is a testament to the ongoing efforts of our community to attract and retain quality businesses.  We look forward to seeing an even greater positive impact from HWI on the local workforce and economy.”

    “The collaboration between our local entities and state agencies was critical to making this happen,” said Tom Howard, IDA Board Member. “HWI’s decision to relocate here highlights the strength of our business environment, and we are excited to see this partnership grow.”

    About HWI, a member of Calderys

    HWI is one of the leading suppliers of refractory products and services in the United States, with a history that spans more than 150 years. It is part of Calderys and is the brand for the Americas region of the Group.  HWI counts 25 manufacturing sites and 20 distribution centers in the Americas, as well as the largest refractory industry research facility in North America. Serving virtually every major industry that requires refractory solutions to enhance production and protect assets, HWI is consistently recognized for its talented experts, industry firsts, and intensely driven excellence.

    To learn more about HWI, visit thinkhwi.com.

    About Calderys

    Calderys is a leading global provider for industries operating in high-temperature conditions with 2023 revenue at circa €1.6bn and over €220m of adjusted EBITDA. The Group specializes in thermal protection for industrial equipment with a wide range of refractory products and advanced solutions to enhance steel casting, metallurgical fluxes, and molding processes. With a presence in more than 30 countries and a strong footprint in the Americas through the brand HWI (HarbisonWalker International), Calderys’ international network of experts ensures an end-to-end offer with tailored services. Drawing on over 150 years of experience, Calderys supports its customers in their energy transition needs. Headquartered in Paris, France, the Group counts 5,800 employees and contractors, and 50 plants on five continents.

    To learn more about Calderys, visit calderys.com.

    About the Missouri Department of Economic Development

    The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) works to create an environment that encourages economic growth by supporting Missouri’s businesses and diverse industries, strengthening our communities, developing a talented and skilled workforce, and maintaining a high quality of life. As one team built around the customer and driven by data, DED aspires to be the best economic development department in the Midwest. Through its various initiatives, DED is helping create opportunities for Missourians to prosper.

    For the latest updates on DED’s current or future programs and initiatives, visit DED’s website.

    About the Missouri Works Program

    As the state’s number one incentive tool for expansion and retention, the Missouri Works Program helps businesses access capital through withholdings or tax credits to embark on facility expansions and create jobs. This program can also help businesses purchase equipment to maintain its facility in Missouri.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: US-Africa relations under Biden: a mismatch between talk and action

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Christopher Isike, Director, African Centre for the Study of the United States, University of Pretoria

    In his first year in office, US president Joe Biden committed to resetting US-Africa relations based on a doctrine of equal partnership.

    He sent his secretary of state, Antony Blinken, to Kenya, Côte d’Ivoire and Nigeria. The visit was used to outline the administration’s policy outlook towards Africa. It laid the ground for the official US-Africa policy commitment that Blinken launched the following year in South Africa.

    Since then, there have been high level engagements between the US and African countries to deepen ties. They included visits by top cabinet members of the administration: vice-president Kamala Harris, secretary of defence Lloyd Austin and treasury secretary Janet Yellen. First lady Jill Biden also came.

    Biden hosted a well attended US-Africa Leaders Summit in Washington DC in December 2022. Kenyan president William Ruto paid a state visit to the White House in May.

    Yet our view, which is based on years of studying and writing on US and Africa relations, is that the Biden administration has not fulfilled its commitment to resetting US-Africa relations based on an equal partnership. It hasn’t recognised Africa’s growing agency in international affairs.

    We argue that there has been a mismatch between the rhetoric and practice of an equal partnership. For example, African leaders or the African Union were not consulted about the agenda of the 2022 US-Africa Leaders Summit. This was also the case with the US’s Africa strategy.

    This reflects the traditional paternalistic relationship of the US with Africa.

    Read more: Joe Biden in Africa: US president has ignored the continent for his entire term — why he’s visiting Angola

    Biden is due to visit Angola in December – his only African visit as president. A much more encouraging message of equal partnership would have been delivered if the US-Africa Leaders Summit, for example, had been held at the African Union headquarters in Ethiopia. Biden would have then been able to engage with African leaders in the continent early in his term.

    A full diary of engagements

    There are a number of positive indicators of Biden’s commitment to reset relations with Africa.

    August 2022: The first tangible step was through the US Strategy Toward Sub-Saharan Africa. This presented a shift in emphasis from great power politics (vis-a-vis China and Russia in Africa) and Trump’s America First diplomacy, to one of mutual respect and partnership (at least on paper) under Biden.

    Priorities included fostering open societies, delivering democratic and security dividends, advancing pandemic recovery and economic opportunity, and supporting the climate agenda.

    December 2022: The US-Africa Leaders Summit in Washington DC was attended by 49 African leaders, three months after the release of the Africa strategy. The focus was on

    strengthening ties with African partners based on principles of mutual respect and shared interests and values.

    Biden pledged US$55 billion in investments until 2025 to advance goals that aligned with shared priorities. The US is said to have allocated 80% of said funds.

    The US used the summit to formally announce its support for the African Union’s membership of the G20. This was realised when the AU officially joined the G20 as a permanent member in 2023.

    November 2023: Biden hosted Angolan president João Lourenço at the White House on an official visit. They discussed cooperation on the economy, security, energy, transport, telecommunications, agriculture and outer space.

    May 2024: Kenyan president William Ruto’s state visit was the first by an African leader in more than 15 years.

    September 2024: US ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield announced US support for Africa getting two permanent seats on the UN security council.

    Finally, Biden’s visit to Angola, set for the first week in December would be the first by a US president since 2015.

    What’s gone wrong

    It’s possible to see serious flaws in the US approach towards Africa set against the expectation of an equal partnership.

    Firstly, the US has attempted to undermine African agency through its bid to pressure African countries to condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Many African countries chose non-alignment.

    Secondly, the US championing two seats for Africa on the security council looks commendable on the surface. But the lack of veto power perpetuates power imbalances between Africa and the current permanent security council members – the US, France, the UK, Russia and China.

    US vice-president Kamala Harris visited Zambian president Hakainde Hichilema in 2023. Salim Dawood/AFP via Getty Images.

    The question again is how equal the partnership is if Africa will be a junior member of the security council.

    Thirdly, there has been a lack of joint agenda setting. African countries have made no input into US-Africa strategy or the US-Africa Leaders Summit.

    Failing to consult African leaders, institutions and civil society on the continent’s own priorities reflects the same old practice of imposing priorities on African states. It looks like a continuation of the usual passing off of American national interests as African interests.

    Fourthly, there have been challenges in implementing what’s set out in the US Strategy Toward Sub-Saharan Africa. These have included inadequate resource allocation.

    Read more: US-Africa trade deal turns 25 next year: Agoa’s winners, losers and what should come next

    Fifth, the Biden administration has used the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa) as diplomatic leverage over African countries. For example, in October 2023 it announced the removal of Uganda, Niger, Gabon and Central African Republic from the beneficiaries. Earlier, the administration removed Ethiopia, Guinea, Mali and Burkina Faso. These countries were removed from Agoa for not complying with US human rights and political demands.

    Between February and March 2024, the US Congress also considered the US-South Africa Bilateral Relations Bill, which risks South Africa’s exclusion from Agoa because of Pretoria’s position on the Israel/Palestine conflict.

    Lastly, the fact that Biden is only visiting Africa in the last days of his presidency suggests Africa is not a priority. The fact that only one African head of state has been afforded a state visit to Washington reinforces this thinking.

    If the US is serious about equal partnership, it mustn’t treat Africa as an afterthought. It must always consult African states in shaping policies that affect them and the continent.

    Ruth Kasanga, a postgraduate student in the Department of Political Sciences and Research Assistant at the African Centre for the Study of the United States, University of Pretoria, made contributions to this article.

    – US-Africa relations under Biden: a mismatch between talk and action
    – https://theconversation.com/us-africa-relations-under-biden-a-mismatch-between-talk-and-action-242307

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: BSTDB Partners with Evocabank to Strengthen SME Financing in Armenia

    Source: Black Sea Trade and Development Bank

    Press Release | 31-Oct-2024

    Facility tailored to strengthen small businesses and boost regional trade 

    The Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB) has initiated a new partnership in Armenia by providing USD 10 million to Evocabank. With USD 9 million of the loan dedicated to financing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and USD 1 million for trade finance operations, the BSTDB facility is specifically designed to address the capital expenditure and working capital needs of Armenian SMEs, including those engaged in trade with other countries in the Black Sea region. Evocabank will utilize these funds to support domestic SMEs, helping them deliver their investment programmess, expand into new markets, and strengthen their competitiveness and export capabilities.

    As a new partner for BSTDB in Armenia, Evocabank’s advanced digital channels and extensive branch network, will play a crucial role in delivering this support to SMEs across Armenia. This collaboration opens new opportunities for Armenian companies to engage in cross-border trade and foster stronger economic ties within the region, in line with BSTDB’s mandate to promote intra-regional cooperation.

    Upon signing the loan agreement, Dr. Serhat Köksal, BSTDB President said: “Supporting the development of the SME sector is a core strategic priority for BSTDB, not just in Armenia but across all our member countries. Small and medium-sized enterprises are the backbone of any economy, and in Armenia, they play a crucial role in driving growth, innovation, and employment.  The funds we are providing will support these businesses in enhancing their operations and building resilience, ultimately contributing to the overall development and sustainable growth of the country’s economy.”

    Karen Yeghiazaryan, Chairman of the Management Board of Evocabank, said: “We are excited to announce a transformative partnership with The Black Sea Trade and Development Bank, aimed at boosting Armenia’s micro, small, and medium-sized enterprise sector. This collaboration marks a significant milestone, with BSTDB providing a substantial investment of USD 10 mln to Evocabank. Of this, USD 9 mln will be directed to empowering SMEs, while USD 1 mln will facilitate trade finance operations. This initiative is tailored to address the challenges faced by Armenian SMEs, ensuring they have the necessary means for growth and innovation. By supporting enterprises involved in trade within the Black Sea region, we are not only enhancing their operational capacity but also fostering a more robust and competitive business landscape. At Evocabank, we are committed to leveraging these funds to help local SMEs realize their investment goals, expand into new markets, and enhance their competitiveness and export potential.”

    Founded in 1990, Evocabank is the first registered commercial bank in Armenia with over 34 years of experience in the banking market. Headquartered in Yerevan, Evocabank provides inclusive financial services to individuals, MSMEs, and larger businesses through its extensive network in Yerevan and regions. The bank is aimed at delivering financial services with extensive application of the latest technologies in a fast, simple and convenient way, operating in a mobile- first format. Focused on innovative digital approach Evocabank is one of the fastest growing banks in Armenia. The bank has received a number of international awards including “The Best SME Bank of Armenia” and “The Best Digital Bank of Armenia” awards by Global Finance Magazine. More information at: www.evoca.am

    The Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB) is an international financial institution established by Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Georgia, Greece, Moldova, Romania, Russia, Türkiye, and Ukraine. The BSTDB headquarters are in Thessaloniki, Greece. BSTDB supports economic development and regional cooperation by providing loans, credit lines, equity and guarantees for projects and trade financing in the public and private sectors in its member countries. The authorized capital of the Bank is EUR 3.45 billion. For information on BSTDB, visit www.bstdb.org.

     

    Contact:

    Haroula Christodoulou

    : @BSTDB

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: FMQs: Greens call on SNP to reverse cuts to climate budgets and free school meals

    Source: Scottish Greens

    31 Oct 2024 Climate Climate Action

    The Scottish Government must reverse the cuts it made to key budgets.

    More in Climate

    The First Minister must use any new funding from Westminster to reverse the damaging cuts that the Scottish Government has made to climate and nature budgets, says Scottish Green Co-leader Lorna Slater.

    Speaking at First Minister’s Questions, Ms Slater underlined the importance of nature restoration and walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure in hitting Scotland’s climate targets.

    In her first question, Ms Slater said:

    “Yesterday the UK Government presented a budget that they claim will put £1.5bn back into the Scottish Government’s budget for this year. 

    “This money should ensure that some of the most damaging cuts announced by the Scottish Government earlier this year should not now need to go ahead. 

    “Spending on the climate and nature emergencies is essential to ensure our planet has a liveable future. Whilst the Scottish Greens were in government, climate and nature spending reached record levels.

    “Will the First Minister commit to using the additional funding announced yesterday for this financial year to restore the funding cuts to the Nature Restoration Fund and active travel budgets, and does this mean that the Scottish Government no longer needs to use up all of the ScotWind funding which was supposed to be invested in our Green future?”

    Following an answer from the First Minister, in which he did not commit to reversing the vast in-year cuts that have been made, Ms Slater called for the First Minister to halt his recent U-turn on rolling out universal free school meals for all primary school pupils.

    Ms Slater said:

    “That’s very disappointing to hear about this year, I’ll ask the First Minister about next year.

    “One of our proudest moments for the Scottish Greens during our time in Government was rolling out free school meals for all children in primary 4 and 5, because we know it’s a simple and effective way to address the impacts of child poverty and make sure every child has the best chance at school.

    “We were on course to expand that to every child in primary school by the end of this session of Parliament, until the Scottish Government put in an indefinite delay on the rollout in this year’s programme for Government. 

    “Given the predicted £3.4bn due to be added to next year’s Scottish Budget, will the First Minister reinstate the promise to deliver free school meals for the remaining pupils in primary 6 and 7 by 2026, as endorsed by this Parliament just a few weeks ago?”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko held meetings with Russian teachers and youth of Uzbekistan in Tashkent

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    During his working visit to Uzbekistan, Dmitry Chernyshenko talked with teachers who are participants in projects of the Russian Ministry of Education. With the Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov and the head of the Department of Social Development of the Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Odil Abdurakhmanov

    October 31, 2024

    Dmitry Chernyshenko at a meeting with participants of youth projects and programs in Uzbekistan, implemented by the Russian Federation

    October 31, 2024

    Dmitry Chernyshenko at a meeting with participants of youth projects and programs in Uzbekistan, implemented by the Russian Federation

    October 31, 2024

    greeted the participants of the international motor rally of the project “The Path of the Future Games Trophy 2.0” and gave the start to the Tashkent – Jizzakh stage

    October 31, 2024

    Dmitry Chernyshenko greeted the participants of the international motor rally of the project “The Path of the Future Games Trophy 2.0” and gave the start to the Tashkent – Jizzakh stage

    October 31, 2024

    Previous news Next news

    Dmitry Chernyshenko, as part of a working visit to Uzbekistan, talked with teachers who are participants in projects of the Russian Ministry of Education. With the Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov and the head of the Department of Social Development of the Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Odil Abdurakhmanov

    During his working visit to Uzbekistan, Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Dmitry Chernyshenko spoke with teachers participating in humanitarian projects implemented by the Russian Ministry of Education: “Russian Teacher Abroad”, “Class!” (“Zur!”) and “Baby” (“Mittivoi”).

    The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the importance of the work of Russian teachers, who make a significant contribution to the development of bilateral relations between Uzbekistan and Russia.

    “The project “Russian Teacher Abroad” is developing in almost 30 countries. Uzbekistan is one of the leaders in the number of Russian teachers, which emphasizes the importance of bilateral cooperation in the field of education between our countries and the corresponding attitude of our Presidents to this. I know that you closely interact with your Uzbek colleagues and introduce advanced educational technologies here. It is important to build a continuous educational trajectory between specialists from Uzbekistan and Russian business,” the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko thanked the teachers for their dedicated work and promotion of the Russian language and culture in the republic.

    “We are doing a lot of work within the framework of the “Class!” project. Teachers from the Russian Federation undergo appropriate training and advanced training at the A.I. Herzen Russian State Pedagogical University in St. Petersburg. Then they come to the Republic of Uzbekistan and teach Russian, exchanging experiences with local teachers,”– noted the Minister of Education of Russia Sergei Kravtsov.

    The head of the Russian Ministry of Education added that the Russian side is also ready to provide methodological assistance so that the training of in-demand specialists here is carried out at a high level.

    During the event, participants also discussed the Russian federal project “Professionalism” and textbooks on Russian as a foreign language.

    At a meeting with participants in youth projects and programs implemented by the Russian Federation, the Deputy Prime Minister noted the significance and legacy of the World Youth Festival and discussed strengthening international youth relations between Uzbekistan and Russia.

    The topic of projects and initiatives that are planned to be implemented within the framework of the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War was separately touched upon.

    In addition, they discussed ways to increase young people’s interest in science and issues of media literacy.

    “You know that our country pays a lot of attention to the international youth agenda. Some of you personally took part in the World Youth Festival, which took place in the federal territory of Sirius. When organizing such an event, it was very important for us that young people from all over the world, including from our fraternal Republic of Uzbekistan, come, look at the created infrastructure and participate in the events,” said Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    He also noted the importance of Uzbekistan’s support for phygital sports and the Future Games.

    “The delegation of Uzbekistan was one of the largest at the World Youth Festival. More than 300 young people from all corners of our country participated in the festival, had the opportunity to find new friends to learn about the experience of countries around the world, and also to demonstrate the unique experience of Uzbekistan in working with youth,” emphasized the moderator of the event, head of the Volunteer Association of Uzbekistan Shirin Abidova.

    During the meeting, Dmitry Chernyshenko awarded the commemorative medal “World Youth Festival 2024” to representatives of Uzbekistan and Russia who made a great contribution to the preparation and holding of this large-scale event. The medals were awarded in accordance with the order of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

    The meeting was also attended by Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to the Republic of Uzbekistan Oleg Malginov, Deputy Head of Rosmolodezh Denis Ashirov, Head of the Representative Office of Rossotrudnichestvo in the Republic of Uzbekistan Irina Staroselskaya, Head of the Department of Social Development of the Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Odil Abdurakhmanov, First Deputy Director of the Agency for Youth Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan Dilnozahon Kattakhanova.

    “Rosmolodezh is pursuing a course to strengthen international youth relations. It is important for us to help young people from Russia and other countries find common ground in various spheres of activity. Joint projects and programs are a contribution to the development of modern society and the construction of a happy future,” emphasized State Secretary – Deputy Head of the Federal Agency for Youth Affairs (Rosmolodezh) Denis Ashirov.

    The Deputy Prime Minister of Russia also greeted the participants of the international motor rally of the Future Games Trophy Route 2.0 project and gave the start to the Tashkent – Jizzakh stage.

    The Deputy Prime Minister recalled that the run started in October at the Russia – Sports Power forum in Ufa. It will pass through the territory of eight states – participants of the global phygital movement.

    “Phygital and Future Games are a new competition format that was invented in Russia on the instructions of President Vladimir Putin and became known to the entire world. We know the intention of your head of state and the people of Uzbekistan to also be nominated to host the Future Games in your country. I thank the leadership of the republic and everyone who works with young people for their caring attitude to this format, which allows new stars to develop, who show themselves well both in computer games and in real sports,” said Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    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 USA: Remarks by President  Biden and President Nikos Christodoulides of the Republic of Cyprus Before Bilateral  Meeting

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Oval Office
    12:06 P.M. EDT
    PRESIDENT BIDEN:  Well, Mr. President, welcome.  Welcome to the Oval Office.
    PRESIDENT CHRISTODOULIDES:  Thank you very much, Mr. President.
    PRESIDENT BIDEN:  Good to see you.  Good to see you.
    It was 10 years ago when I visited Cyprus last, as vice president of the United States.  And — and, as I said, there is no limit to what our nations can achieve if we work together. 
    PRESIDENT CHRISTODOULIDES:  Exactly.
    PRESIDENT BIDEN:  And we’ve been doing that for a long time. 
    But I think that’s even more true today.  Today, we stood against Russia’s vicious onslaught against Ukraine.  We launched a strategic dialogue to increase cooperation across a range of issues, from energy security to artificial intelligence.  And we surged humanitarian aid, delivering 8,000 metric tons to Gaza. 
    So, Mr. President, Cyprus made all this possible.  I want thank you for your leadership in making that happen. 
    And this year also marks the 50th anniversary of the artificial division of the island.  I remember it well.  It was my first year as a U.S. senator.  I remember sitting with (inaudible) — anyway, it’s — it’s a sad day.
    PRESIDENT CHRISTODOULIDES:  (Inaudible.)
    PRESIDENT BIDEN:  But as a — it was a sad occasion, but I remain optimistic about the possibility that a u- — reunited Cyprus and bizonal, bicommunal federation is possible.  And the United States ready — stands ready to provide any support we can toward that goal. 
    Mr. President, thank you, again, for being here, and I look forward to our conversation.
    The floor is yours.
    PRESIDENT CHRISTODOULIDES:  Mr. President, it’s a great honor to be at the White House.  Thank you very much for your invitation.
    As you very well know, our countries have been — have built a truly strategic partnership and — and our relations — our relations are at a strategic and historical high.
    At the bilateral level, we are working closely on defense and security, on energy, law enforcement, technology innovation.  There is a top potential, and there is a clear and strong political will from both countries, following also the first strategic dialogue that took place in Cyprus last week to further enhance our partnership.
    Mr. President, at — at the regional level, Cyprus is a predictable and reliable partner of the United States in a region of great geopolitical importance.  We are the member state of the European Union in the region.  We have excellent relations with all of our neighbors.  And we’re working closely with the United States and other partners to face the current challenges, to send much-needed humanitarian assistance to Gaza, to evacuate third-country nationals from — from the region.
    With regards to — to Ukraine, Cyprus stands on the right side of history.  And, Mr. President, it could have been different, having in mind that my country is under Turkish occupation the last 50 years.  
    And, Mr. President, I count on your support and the support of the United States to resume negotiations and find a solution of the Cyprus problem — solution in line with the U.N. Security Council resolution, solution that is based on our common values and principles: democracy and respect of human rights.
    So, Mr. President, once again, thank you very much.  I’m looking forward to our discussions.  Thank you very much.
    PRESIDENT BIDEN:  I’m looking forward to it as well.  You’re a good friend.  (Inaudible.)
    PRESIDENT CHRISTODOULIDES:  Thanks.  Thank a lot.
    12:20 P.M. EDT

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: U.S. Commercial Drone Market Size Estimated to Reach a Value of $ 31 Billion By End of 2034

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALM BEACH, Fla., Oct. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – The commercial drone industry is witnessing rapid growth and transforming various sectors such as agriculture, delivery and logistics, and energy among others. Advancements in drone technologies have led to increased demand and utilization in industries such as filming, emergency response, construction, and real estate. Additionally, drone software solution providers and manufacturers are continuously innovating and upgrading their offerings to cater to diverse market needs. As governments establish regulatory frameworks, the integration of drones into industries is expected to accelerate. This, in turn, is likely to create lucrative opportunities for market expansion over the forecast period. A report from Grand View Research projected that the U.S. commercial drone market size is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.1% through 2030. The report said: “Furthermore, favorable legislations and rising use of commercial drones by authorities in the U.S. is expected to attract various industries to utilize drones for different processes. Similarly, government authorities across the region are constantly working on framing new regulations for the commercial applications of drones. This is attributed to increased focus on the adoption of commercial drones due to their economic potential, while prioritizing the safety and security of the country. This, in turn, is anticipated to drive the U.S. commercial drone market growth over the forecast period.”   Active Tech Companies in the markets today include ZenaTech, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZENA), AeroVironment, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVAV), Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO), Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: RCAT), Safe Pro Group Inc. (NASDAQ: SPAI).

    Fact.MR continued: “In addition, surveyors and engineers use drones to visualize the progress made in their construction projects by taking overhead images. Having a project overview leads to simplification of decision-making, thereby streamlining building site operations. Drones are now being used for several applications, ranging from surveillance, deployment in military operations, video recording, agriculture, and film & television. With this rise in drone applications, key players in the United States market are incorporating advanced technologies in drones. Increasing drone payload capacity and introducing drones for specific applications are anticipated to promote the profits of drone manufacturers. Furthermore, leading companies are also making drones with high-power motors. Home deliveries through drones have now become a reality with the help of retail and logistics organizations such as Amazon.”

    ZenaTech Inc.’s (NASDAQ:ZENA) ZenaDrone Completes the First Phase of an IQ Nano Inventory Management Trial for Multinational Auto Parts Customer – ZenaTech, a technology company specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drone solutions and enterprise SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) solutions, today announced that its subsidiary, ZenaDrone, has successfully completed the first phase of drone testing and 3D mapping, and is beginning the next phase of production of a paid trial for a multinational auto parts manufacturer. This production phase consists of flying automatic and fully autonomous flights of the IQ Nano drone in an inventory management application.

    Testing took place over several months at ZenaDrone’s production facility in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates (UAE) to ensure the smooth operation of the inventory scanning application. The 3D mapping took place just recently at the customer’s site consisting of scanning and mapping the warehouse area to create a 3D map that automates the drone flight path and its operations while in production.

    View video showing the IQ Nano in test flight here.

    The production phase is set to begin imminently and will consist of the IQ Nano flying and reading product and component bar codes, collecting information for verification and integration with the customer’s inventory management and accounting systems.

    “We look forward to the production phase and concluding a successful trial, proving the viability of the IQ Nano and enabling us to deliver our product to our customer. A successful trial also opens the potential to win additional business with this customer and to verifiably demonstrate IQ Nano’s utility for the benefit of attracting additional market interest. The revolutionary use of an indoor drone for productivity and cost savings value can be implemented across hundreds of warehouse facilities, turning a week-long activity like counting inventory into a day,” said CEO Shaun Passley, Ph.D. – Get the full details by visiting: https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-zena/

    Additional Groundbreaking ZenaTech Inc. Developments this week include:

    ZenaTech Enters the Drone Sensor and Components Market Establishing a New Taiwan Subsidiary to Win More US Defense Contracts for Its AI Drones – ZenaTech also announced it will establish a new company in Taiwan to manufacture drone sensors and components for use in the drone products produced by its subsidiary ZenaDrone. The new company, named Spider Vision Sensors Ltd., will ensure ZenaDrone’s products are compliant with the US National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), an important requirement for the company to win more business with the US Military.

    Spider Vision Sensors Ltd. will manufacture drone sensors, electronics, and components such LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), thermal, infrared, multi-spectral and hyper sensors, cameras, and PBCs (Printed Circuit Boards). Having in-house manufactured sensors and components will enable ZenaDrone to have a steady supply to fulfill customer orders and drone production needs at its Sharjah, UAE, and future Arizona-based drone manufacturing facilities. Taiwan was selected due to its size and skills as an electronics hub, and the availability of low-cost alternative components versus those from China. The new company is currently at the prototype stage, and the manufacturing facility is expected to be open in November.

    “Establishing a drone sensor and components manufacturer in Taiwan will help bring our products to market faster and removes dependencies on any Chinese made electronics. This will position us to win more US military contracts via achieving Green UAS (Uncrewed Arial Systems) and Blue UAS certifications as an approved supplier,” said CEO Shaun Passley, Ph.D.    Read this full release at:      https://finance.yahoo.com/news/zenatech-enters-drone-sensor-components-113000155.html

    Other recent developments in the technology industry include:

    AeroVironment (NASDAQ: AVAV) recently successfully showcased the maritime prowess of its combat-proven JUMP® 20 uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) during the NATO REPMUS 2024 (Robotic Experimentation and Prototyping using Maritime Uncrewed Systems) exercise off the coast of Portugal. This dynamic demonstration reinforced JUMP 20’s advanced Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, autonomously launching and landing on a moving vessel in rough seas, with conditions reaching sea state level 5 and winds over 20 kts.

    The JUMP 20 also highlighted its multi-sensor mission versatility, seamlessly executing wide-area search and detection tasks. Its advanced Electro Optical and Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) turret automatically slewed to investigate identified targets without repositioning the platform, ensuring constant operational focus. Full-motion video was captured and later analyzed using AV’s cutting-edge computer vision technology, SPOTR-Edge™, enabling perception analysis using its robust library of object classifications, including persons, vehicles, and maritime vessels. Additionally, video from this event will further enhance the solution, making the JUMP 20 even more capable for future deployments by refining its object recognition and situational response capabilities.

    Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO), an award-winning, industry-leading developer of drone solutions and systems, recently announced its participation in the upcoming Wings of Saskatchewan event in Regina, from October 30 to October 31, 2024. Draganfly will showcase its latest drone technology advancements, contributing to discussions on industry trends, safety, and regulatory considerations alongside key stakeholders in the aviation sector.

    The Wings of Saskatchewan Conference, hosted by the Saskatchewan Aerial Applicators Association and the Saskatchewan Aviation Council, serves as a vital gathering for the aviation community. This year’s event will bring together leaders from both civil and commercial aviation sectors to discuss technological advancements, regulatory updates, and future trends within the industry.

    Draganfly will emphasize the need for synergy across the aviation industry at the conference by addressing essential topics, including airspace safety and the regulatory challenges impacting the drone sector. This presentation will spotlight the benefits of enhanced communication and collaboration between fixed-wing, helicopter, and RPAS (Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems) to promote safe, efficient, and integrated airspace management.

    Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: RCAT), a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations, recently announced a new contract and order for 12 of its FlightWave Edge 130 Blue system from the Royal Australian Navy. The contract was secured through Criterion Solutions Pty Ltd., an Australian-based distributor of intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and information technology solutions.

    FlightWave, an industry-leading provider of VTOL drone, sensor and software solutions was acquired by Red Cat in September 2024. The acquisition brought FlightWave’s flagship drone, the Edge 130 Blue into its family of low-cost, portable unmanned reconnaissance and precision lethal strike systems. FlightWave’s size, weight and vertical take off capabilities makes it ideal for maritime operations and littoral environments.

    Safe Pro Group Inc. (NASDAQ: SPAI) recently shared a video highlighting the capabilities of the Company’s patent-pending SpotlightAI™ AI-powered demining solution presented by Amazon Web Services (AWS) at this year’s AWS Summit Washington, D.C. The video highlights AWS Partners in the AWS Partner Network (APN) featuring senior Safe Pro team members discussing how AWS’s hyper scalability and compute resources are enabling the Company to modernize demining efforts in Ukraine by utilizing AI-powered image analysis of drone-based imagery.

    “Our inclusion in this year’s AWS Summit Washington, D.C. spotlights our continued success in locating thousands of landmines and unexploded ordnance currently scattered over thousands of hectares of land in Ukraine utilizing our AI-powered image analysis technology. AWS continues to provide us invaluable support as we work to harness the power of AI and AWS’s hyper scalability to modernize real world demining operations. Working with AWS, we have greatly enhanced our ability to provide leading humanitarian mine action organizations with powerful new tools that can improve their situational awareness as they execute their land clearance operations across Ukraine, expediting the release of land for agricultural and civilian use,” said Dan Erdberg, Chairman and CEO of Safe Pro Group Inc.

    About FN Media Group:

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

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    SOURCE: FN Media Group

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BW Energy Limited – Prospectus approved for listing of bonds

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BW Energy Limited – Prospectus approved for listing of bonds

    Reference is made to the announcement by BW Energy Limited (the “Company”) on 7 June 2024 about the successful completion of a new senior unsecured bond issue with an initial issue amount of USD 100 million with ISIN NO 0013259663 (the “Bonds”).

    The Financial Supervisory Authority of Norway has today approved a prospectus prepared by the Company in connection with the application for admission to trading and listing of the Bonds on the Euronext Oslo Børs. The admission to listing of the bonds is expected on or about 4 November 2024.

    The prospectus will be made available on the company’s website: www.bwenergy.no/investors/


    For further information, please contact:

    Brice Morlot, CFO BW Energy, +33.7.81.11.41.16 ir@bwenergy.com


    About BW Energy:

    BW Energy Limited is a growth E&P company with a differentiated strategy targeting proven offshore oil and gas reservoirs through low risk phased developments. The Company has access to existing production facilities to reduce time to first oil and cashflow with lower investments than traditional offshore developments. The Company’s assets are 73.5% of the producing Dussafu Marine licence offshore Gabon, 100% interest in the Golfinho and Camarupim fields, a 76.5% interest in the BM-ES-23 block in, a 95% interest in the Maromba field in Brazil and a 95% interest in the Kudu field in Namibia, all operated by BW Energy. Total net 2P+2C reserves and resources were 580 million barrels of oil equivalents at the start of 2024.

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: US-Africa relations under Biden: a mismatch between talk and action

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Christopher Isike, Director, African Centre for the Study of the United States, University of Pretoria

    In his first year in office, US president Joe Biden committed to resetting US-Africa relations based on a doctrine of equal partnership.

    He sent his secretary of state, Antony Blinken, to Kenya, Côte d’Ivoire and Nigeria. The visit was used to outline the administration’s policy outlook towards Africa. It laid the ground for the official US-Africa policy commitment that Blinken launched the following year in South Africa.

    Since then, there have been high level engagements between the US and African countries to deepen ties. They included visits by top cabinet members of the administration: vice-president Kamala Harris, secretary of defence Lloyd Austin and treasury secretary Janet Yellen. First lady Jill Biden also came.

    Biden hosted a well attended US-Africa Leaders Summit in Washington DC in December 2022. Kenyan president William Ruto paid a state visit to the White House in May.

    Yet our view, which is based on years of studying and writing on US and Africa relations, is that the Biden administration has not fulfilled its commitment to resetting US-Africa relations based on an equal partnership. It hasn’t recognised Africa’s growing agency in international affairs.

    We argue that there has been a mismatch between the rhetoric and practice of an equal partnership. For example, African leaders or the African Union were not consulted about the agenda of the 2022 US-Africa Leaders Summit. This was also the case with the US’s Africa strategy.

    This reflects the traditional paternalistic relationship of the US with Africa.



    Read more:
    Joe Biden in Africa: US president has ignored the continent for his entire term — why he’s visiting Angola

    Biden is due to visit Angola in December – his only African visit as president. A much more encouraging message of equal partnership would have been delivered if the US-Africa Leaders Summit, for example, had been held at the African Union headquarters in Ethiopia. Biden would have then been able to engage with African leaders in the continent early in his term.

    A full diary of engagements

    There are a number of positive indicators of Biden’s commitment to reset relations with Africa.

    August 2022: The first tangible step was through the US Strategy Toward Sub-Saharan Africa. This presented a shift in emphasis from great power politics (vis-a-vis China and Russia in Africa) and Trump’s America First diplomacy, to one of mutual respect and partnership (at least on paper) under Biden.

    Priorities included fostering open societies, delivering democratic and security dividends, advancing pandemic recovery and economic opportunity, and supporting the climate agenda.

    December 2022: The US-Africa Leaders Summit in Washington DC was attended by 49 African leaders, three months after the release of the Africa strategy. The focus was on

    strengthening ties with African partners based on principles of mutual respect and shared interests and values.

    Biden pledged US$55 billion in investments until 2025 to advance goals that aligned with shared priorities. The US is said to have allocated 80% of said funds.

    The US used the summit to formally announce its support for the African Union’s membership of the G20. This was realised when the AU officially joined the G20 as a permanent member in 2023.

    November 2023: Biden hosted Angolan president João Lourenço at the White House on an official visit. They discussed cooperation on the economy, security, energy, transport, telecommunications, agriculture and outer space.

    May 2024: Kenyan president William Ruto’s state visit was the first by an African leader in more than 15 years.

    September 2024: US ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield announced US support for Africa getting two permanent seats on the UN security council.

    Finally, Biden’s visit to Angola, set for the first week in December would be the first by a US president since 2015.

    What’s gone wrong

    It’s possible to see serious flaws in the US approach towards Africa set against the expectation of an equal partnership.

    Firstly, the US has attempted to undermine African agency through its bid to pressure African countries to condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Many African countries chose non-alignment.

    Secondly, the US championing two seats for Africa on the security council looks commendable on the surface. But the lack of veto power perpetuates power imbalances between Africa and the current permanent security council members – the US, France, the UK, Russia and China.

    The question again is how equal the partnership is if Africa will be a junior member of the security council.

    Thirdly, there has been a lack of joint agenda setting. African countries have made no input into US-Africa strategy or the US-Africa Leaders Summit.

    Failing to consult African leaders, institutions and civil society on the continent’s own priorities reflects the same old practice of imposing priorities on African states. It looks like a continuation of the usual passing off of American national interests as African interests.

    Fourthly, there have been challenges in implementing what’s set out in the US Strategy Toward Sub-Saharan Africa. These have included inadequate resource allocation.



    Read more:
    US-Africa trade deal turns 25 next year: Agoa’s winners, losers and what should come next

    Fifth, the Biden administration has used the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa) as diplomatic leverage over African countries. For example, in October 2023 it announced the removal of Uganda, Niger, Gabon and Central African Republic from the beneficiaries. Earlier, the administration removed Ethiopia, Guinea, Mali and Burkina Faso. These countries were removed from Agoa for not complying with US human rights and political demands.

    Between February and March 2024, the US Congress also considered the US-South Africa Bilateral Relations Bill, which risks South Africa’s exclusion from Agoa because of Pretoria’s position on the Israel/Palestine conflict.

    Lastly, the fact that Biden is only visiting Africa in the last days of his presidency suggests Africa is not a priority. The fact that only one African head of state has been afforded a state visit to Washington reinforces this thinking.

    If the US is serious about equal partnership, it mustn’t treat Africa as an afterthought. It must always consult African states in shaping policies that affect them and the continent.

    Ruth Kasanga, a postgraduate student in the Department of Political Sciences and Research Assistant at the African Centre for the Study of the United States, University of Pretoria, made contributions to this article.

    Samuel Oyewole is affiliated with Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Nigeria.

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

    – ref. US-Africa relations under Biden: a mismatch between talk and action – https://theconversation.com/us-africa-relations-under-biden-a-mismatch-between-talk-and-action-242307

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Russia is meddling in politics in Georgia and Moldova – trying to do by stealth what it is doing by war in Ukraine

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Amy Eaglestone, PhD Candidate, University of Birmingham; Visiting Lecturer, Institute of Political Science, Leiden University

    Recent votes in the former Soviet states of Georgia and Moldova have been dogged by interference from Russian-backed elements. Both countries had previously aspired towards closer ties with western Europe and future membership of the EU. And in both countries there is a strong suggestion of influence from Moscow that could jeopardise those aspirations.

    The Moldovan government held a referendum on the country’s EU accession target for 2030 on October 20. Despite consistent polling suggesting that 60% of Moldovans support further integration, the referendum only passed by a slim majority of 50.4%.

    On the same day, the first round of Moldova’s presidential election saw pro-European incumbent Maia Sandu secure 41% of the vote. This was insufficient for an outright win. Sandu now faces a run off against her closest rival, pro-Russian Alexandr Stoianoglo, who garnered 26% of the first vote.

    In the run-off, Stoianoglo will be backed by the two other candidates, both them pro-Russian populists. This makes a Sandu reelection far from inevitable.

    Meanwhile, in Georgia’s parliamentary elections on October 26, Georgian Dream won its fourth consecutive term with 54% of the vote, its best result to date. It will allow the pro-Russia party to retain control of the government and continue the process of pulling the country further away from Europe and towards closer ties with Moscow.

    This is despite the fact that there has been consistently strong popular support for EU integration and growing dissatisfaction toward Georgian Dream’s increasingly pro-Russian policies.

    The difference between public opinion as expressed by independent polling in both Moldova and Georgia and the outcomes of these votes has raised suspicions of interference. These suspicions have been further corroborated by international and domestic election monitoring organisations raising concerns that the elections were not entirely free and fair.

    The pro-European camps in both Moldova and Georgia say Russia is behind this. There is a suggestion that these efforts are part of Russia’s multifaceted hybrid warfare. It’s a campaign aimed at destabilising these countries and hindering their European integration.

    Russia has long manipulated domestic fears and grievances. The Kremlin and its agents have strong influence over media, civil society organisations and the orthodox church.

    Both Moldova and Georgia also have a Russian military presence. In Moldova this is in the breakaway region of Transnistria, where there is a “peacekeeping force” of about 2,000 troops. Georgia has two pro-Russia breakaways making up 20% of the total land area of the country, Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

    The war in Ukraine has also heightened concerns in both both countries about Moscow’s ambitions towards them. Georgia’s ruling Georgian Dream party campaigned for a closer relationship with Russia.

    Its slogan, “No to war! Choose peace!” contrasted peace and alignment with Russia with being dragged into a war by the west. In Moldova opposition parties used similar rhetoric, calling for Russian protection and framing EU integration as a threat to national sovereignty. This resonated particularly among Russian-speaking populations.

    Russia’s influencers have also escalated cultural tensions in both countries. In Moldova, Moscow-backed opposition groups have rallied conservative segments of society to fight against governments efforts to introduce EU-aligned anti-discrimination legislation.

    Similarly, the Georgian Dream party introduced Russian-style anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in Georgia to appeal to the traditional family values of conservative and religious voters. By leveraging such issues, Russia has aimed to exploit people’s cultural concerns, to increase political polarisation, and to affect political choices.

    Follow the money

    But the most important way the Kremlin, or people associated with Russia, is interfering in the domestic politics of Georgia and Moldova is money. In the case of Moldova, fugitive pro-Moscow tycoon Ilan Shor (who lives in Moscow after being found guilty of fraud in Moldova) has been accused of bribery and helping orchestrate electoral fraud. Shor has denied any wrongdoing connected to the election.

    Georgian banking and tech billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili one of the country’s wealthiest oligarchs, founded Georgian Dream in 2012. He has been described in one article as “the man who bought a country”. With a fortune worth the equivalent of 25% of Georgia’s GDP, he is thought to wield an outsize influence in the country’s politics, influence he reportedly uses to “tilt the country towards Moscow” (although some say he primarily furthers his own interests).

    Ivanishvili himself, announcing his return to mainstream politics in 2023 as the honorary chair of Georgian Dream, said the party’s role was to “protect our national identity, restore state sovereignty and territorial integrity, and transform Georgian into a high-income state till 2030 and bring it into the European Union”.

    In the conditions in these countries, individuals’ vast resources can be used unchecked for political activities. The influx of funds disadvantages opposing parties, who don’t have access to similar financial backing. They have created a lopsided political environment that favours Russian-aligned candidates.

    There is also a risk that informal or unchecked financing could also have funded election day irregularities. Reports of vote buying, ballot stuffing and violence at polling stations were observed in both countries.

    In one incident in Moldova captured by the BBC, a woman from Transnistria, where people still hold Moldovan citizenship, was filmed openly inquiring where she should go to receive payment for her vote.

    In Georgia, Ivanishvili’s influence allegedly extends to civil servants and the electoral commission as well as the judiciary, which rules on complaints of vote rigging. Claiming victory shortly after polls closed, Ivanishvili said: “It is a rare case in the world that the same party achieves such success in such a difficult situation.”

    The exact impact of Russian interference remains difficult to prove. But the dramatic apparent shifts in electoral sentiment are highly suggestive. This kind of election interference opens the door for autocratic leaders to gradually dismantle democratic institutions.

    This then allows them to enact further illiberal policies, such as the hated recent “foreign agents” law modelled after similar Russian legislation, which targets pro-democracy civil society organisations critical of the government.

    Moldovans are now preparing to vote in the run-off election on November 3, which will determine the immediate future of the country and could affect its future relationship with Europe. Many Georgians, meanwhile – led by the country’s president, Salome Zourabichvili – have taken to the streets to protest what Zourabichvili has called the “total falsification” of the vote.

    If she and Sandu are right, Russia – along with its supporters – appears to be trying to achieve, through this “hybrid warfare” in Georgia and Moldova, what it is striving for on the battlefield in Ukraine: regaining control over currently free nations that used to be Russia’s obedient satellites.

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

    – ref. Russia is meddling in politics in Georgia and Moldova – trying to do by stealth what it is doing by war in Ukraine – https://theconversation.com/russia-is-meddling-in-politics-in-georgia-and-moldova-trying-to-do-by-stealth-what-it-is-doing-by-war-in-ukraine-242135

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Gaza: can the UN suspend Israel over its treatment of Palestinians? It’s complicated, but yes

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Aidan Hehir, Reader in International Relations, University of Westminster

    “Where is the UN?” is a question that has often been asked since the start of Israel’s military offensive in Gaza. As the death toll rises and the conflict spreads, the UN appears woefully unable to fulfil its mandate to save humanity “from the scourge of war” – as it was set up to do.

    While the UN secretary-general, António Guterres, has repeatedly condemned Israel – and been banned from the country for his pains – his pleas have been ignored. Attempts by the UN to sanction Israel have also failed. UN sanctions require the UN security council’s consent. The US has used its power as a permanent member to veto draft resolutions seeking to do so.



    Read more:
    Hard Evidence: who uses veto in the UN Security Council most often – and for what?

    There have also been calls to suspend Israel from the UN. On October 30, the UN special rapporteur on the right to food, Michael Fakhri, called on the UN general assembly to suspend Israel’s membership because, as he said: “Israel is attacking the UN system.”

    Francesca Albanese, UN special rapporteur on human rights in the Palestinian territories is reported to have told a news conference the same day that the UN should “consider the suspension of Israel’s credentials as a member of the UN until it ends violating international law and withdraws the ‘clearly unlawful’ occupation.”

    But suspending a member is more complicated and politically fraught than many appreciate.

    Israel and the UN

    For decades, Israel’s relationship with the UN has been fractious. This is primarily because of the UN’s stance on what it refers to as Israel’s “unlawful presence” in what it defines as
    “occupied territories” in Palestine. In the past 12 months of the latest conflict in Gaza, this relationship has deteriorated further.

    Many have argued that Israel has repeatedly violated UN resolutions and treaties, including the genocide convention during its campaign in Gaza. Some UN officials have accused Israel – and certain Palestinian groups – of committing war crimes. Israel has also come into direct conflict with UN agencies – some 230 UN personnel have been killed during the offensive, and many governments and UN officials have alleged that Israel deliberately targeted UN peacekeepers in Lebanon.

    But the enmity between Israel and the UN came to a head on October 28, when the Israeli parliament, the Knesset, banned the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (Unrwa) from operating inside Israel, sparking a wave of condemnation.

    The UN’s powers

    Given this open hostility towards the UN, it is not surprising that some are now calling for Israel’s membership to be suspended.

    But can the UN legally suspend a member? The answer is yes. Under articles 5 and 6 of the UN charter a member state may be suspended or expelled if it is found to have “persistently violated the Principles contained in the present Charter”.

    But articles 5 and 6 both state that suspension and expulsion require the consent of the general assembly as well as “the recommendation of the security council”. As such, suspending Israel requires the consent of the five permanent security council members: the US, UK, China, Russia and France.

    And, given the US’s past record and current president Joe Biden’s affirmation of his “ironclad support” for Israel, this is effectively inconceivable. But while it is, therefore, highly unlikely that articles 5 or 6 will be invoked against Israel, there remains a potentially feasible option.

    The South Africa precedent

    At the start of each annual general assembly session, the credentials committee reviews submissions from each member state before they are formally admitted. Usually, this is a formality, but on September 27 1974, the credentials of South Africa – which was then operating an apartheid system – were rejected.

    Tanzanian ambasador to the UN, Salim A. Salim, announces that South Africa has been suspended fdrom the UN, November 1974.
    Teddy Chen/photograph courtesy of the United Nations

    Three days later, the general assembly passed resolution 3207 which called on the security council to, “review the relationship between the United Nations and South Africa in light of the constant violation by South Africa of the principles of the Charter”.

    A draft resolution calling for South Africa’s expulsion was eventually put to the security council at the end of October, but it was vetoed by the US, the UK and France.

    However, on November 12, the president of the general assembly, Algeria’s Abdelaziz Bouteflika, ruled that given the credentials committee’s decision and the passing of resolution 3207, “the general assembly refuses to allow the delegation of South Africa to participate in its work”. South Africa remained suspended from the general assembly until June 1994 following the ending of apartheid.

    It is important to note that South Africa was not formally suspended from the UN, only the general assembly. Nonetheless, it was a hugely significant move.

    A viable solution?

    Could the same measure be applied against Israel and would it be effective? The South Africa case shows it is legally possible. It would also undoubtedly send a powerful message, simultaneously increasing Israel’s international isolation and restoring some much needed faith in the UN.

    The 79th session of the UN general assembly began in September, so it’s too late for the credentials committee to reject Israel. But this could conceivably happen prior to the 80th session next year, if there was sufficient political will. But this is a big “if”.

    Though a majority of states in the general assembly are highly critical of Israel, many do not want the credentials committee to become more politically selective because they fear this could be used against them in the future. Likewise, few want to incur the wrath of the US by suspending its ally.

    As ever, what is legally possible and what is politically likely are two very different things.

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

    – ref. Gaza: can the UN suspend Israel over its treatment of Palestinians? It’s complicated, but yes – https://theconversation.com/gaza-can-the-un-suspend-israel-over-its-treatment-of-palestinians-its-complicated-but-yes-242559

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Birmingham Cultural Compact launch and Culture Strategy refresh

    Source: City of Birmingham

    Early October saw the first official ‘coming together’ of the new Birmingham Cultural Compact Board.

    A cross-sector partnership designed to support the city’s cultural sector and enhance its contribution to development, it has a special emphasis on cross-sector engagement beyond the cultural sector itself.  

    The Cultural Compacts model was born out of the UK Cultural Cities Investment Inquiry 2019 and their implementation in towns and cities across the country has been supported by Arts Council England and the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.

    Chaired by Professor David Mba (Vice-Chancellor at Birmingham City University) with Councillor Saima Suleman (Cabinet Member for Digital, Culture, Heritage and Tourism at the city council) as Deputy Chair, the Birmingham Cultural Compact brings together stakeholders from the local authority, culture, business, education, healthcare and allied sectors with the aim to help culture thrive and grow in the city and, in turn, increase the city’s health, wellbeing, resilience, economic prosperity and environmental sustainability. 

    Chair of the Birmingham Cultural Compact Professor David Mba said “It is an immense privilege to lead Birmingham’s Cultural Compact Board. We hope to offer the strategic vision for the future that represents the voices of all local communities.  Birmingham has a unique and diverse culture that has global impact. We saw this through the Commonwealth Games in 2022 and, more recently, the city’s successful bid to host the Serendipity Arts Festival.  Our work will put the preservation and celebration of culture at the forefront of regional decision making.” 

    Councillor Saima Suleman, Cabinet Member for Digital, Culture, Heritage and tourism and Deputy Chair of the Birmingham Cultural Compact, stated: “The establishment of the Birmingham Cultural Compact marks a pivotal moment for our city. By uniting diverse sectors—culture, business, education, and healthcare—we can cultivate a thriving cultural landscape that not only enriches lives but also drives economic growth and community wellbeing. Together, we will ensure that Birmingham’s cultural sector flourishes for generations to come.”

    Erica Love, Chief Executive Office of Culture Central said “We know the power Culture has on people and places and we believe in the power of working collectively. Culture Central are excited to be supporting Birmingham’s Cultural Compact and the collaborative approach to the Cultural strategy. It’s great to see the importance of Culture recognised and the vital role it plays in the City.  We look forward to working with the Compact to advocate for, develop and celebrate the vibrant and varied cultural ecology of Birmingham.”

    One of the first actions for the Birmingham Cultural Compact is to lead and oversee development of Birmingham’s new Cultural Strategy 2025 – 2035. Creative Concern, a creative and strategy agency that works on local and regional projects across the UK has been commissioned to deliver the new ten-year arts and culture strategy for Birmingham, supported by its partner consultancy Hatch. Their work will build  on the previous extensive consultation that resulted in the city’s Cultural Statement of Intent but also build on the considerable cultural successes that Birmingham has demonstrated to date. The outcome of the project will be an action-orientated framework strategy that supports culture and the arts across Birmingham for the next ten years.

    Founder and Director of Creative Concern, Steve Connor, said: “Culture is the lifeblood of any city and never was that more the case than for Birmingham. We’re delighted to be working collaboratively with a range of partners from across the city to develop this new strategy, which will re-affirm the importance of culture and the transformative role it can play in delivering civic pride, greater prosperity, wellbeing and of course, joy, happiness and entertainment.” 

    Tim Fanning, Director at Hatch, said: “Culture makes life worthwhile, and we at Hatch spend a lot of time helping institutions and places make the case for it. We are very happy to be supporting partners in Birmingham to ensure that its cultural strategy is built on firm socio-economic evidence.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Interest of foreign citizens in studying at HSE is growing: results of 2024/25 admissions and the start of a new campaign

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    The steady growth of interest in studying at HSE, especially among applicants from the CIS and Asia, speaks to the high quality of Russian education. This year, as part of a separate competition for foreign citizens, 2,267 students were enrolled in all HSE campuses for the 2024/25 academic year, which is 14% more than last year.

    November 1st starts Admission campaign for foreign citizens planning to enter in 2025. The results of the 2024/25 admissions campaign for foreign applicants were previously announced.

    HSE Vice-Rector Victoria Panova commented on the growing demand for Russian higher education, emphasizing the campaign’s success: “There are a number of factors that explain the interest in studying at HSE. Applicants and their parents are attracted by the opportunity to receive a high-quality, world-class education in various fields of study. HSE occupies leading positions in national and international rankings. Our graduates are in demand in most sectors of the labor market and can count on a very high level of salary already at the start of their careers, which is proven, among other things, by first place in the ranking of universities with the best reputation among employers by Forbes Education“.

    Having received a diploma from the National Research University Higher School of Economics, a graduate receives a ticket to a world of great opportunities and a wide range of modern, well-paid professions.

    Total number of applicants

    The number of applications for undergraduate and graduate programs has also increased this year: 33.3% more applications for undergraduate programs and almost twice as many for graduate programs. At the same time, the ratio of the number of enrolled students to the number of applications has decreased, which indicates that the requirements for international applicants have increased. Among the first-year undergraduate students of 2024/25, as in the previous year, the majority are from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, China and Turkmenistan. The number of students from Moldova, Vietnam and Armenia has increased. In the graduate program, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of enrolled citizens of Pakistan, Nigeria, Ghana, Afghanistan and Bangladesh, while the number of applicants from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, India and Kyrgyzstan has decreased.

    What areas do foreign applicants choose?

    Among the most popular areas for international undergraduate students are still “Design”, “Business Management” And “Economy”. Master’s programs are in demand “Data Analytics for Business and Economics”, “International Relations: European and Asian Studies” And “Finance”.

    Alexander Deev, Director of Talent Abroad, notes: “The 2024/25 admissions campaign was a success, and this was made possible by the coordinated work of all HSE campuses. We are proud that HSE attracts truly talented applicants not only from Russia, but also from around the world. Thanks to the unified admissions system, international applicants do not need to take exams at each individual campus, or travel or fly in, which makes the process more convenient and creates equal opportunities for everyone.”

    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 stressed the need for a comprehensive approach to modernizing the housing and utilities sector at a headquarters meeting

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin held a meeting of the presidium (headquarters) of the Government Commission on Regional Development, where they discussed key tasks in further work on modernizing the public utility infrastructure and other key areas of the new national project “Infrastructure for Life”.

    “We have large-scale plans ahead for the construction of housing, related and non-residential infrastructure, so it is extremely important to plan the work in terms of housing and communal services competently. Regional teams should already now describe in detail where we are modernizing communal facilities and where we are building new ones. We need to develop a maximally systematic approach, and for this purpose we are working on a “road map” for improving the regulatory framework for housing and communal services. I draw the attention of governors to the need to update general plans, heat, water supply and sanitation schemes, as well as control over the fulfillment of social obligations to citizens, in whose income the payment for housing and communal services takes up a significant part. I emphasize that the modernization of housing and communal services should become a priority for each region in the coming decades,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    The Deputy Prime Minister also noted that within the framework of the national project “Infrastructure for Life” for 200 large and small cities, master plans will be developed on the instructions of the President. They will be designed to significantly simplify urban development procedures, which in turn will allow for the prompt updating of territorial development plans. Proposals for legislative consolidation of master plans will be presented in the near future.

    The meeting participants discussed the progress of national and federal projects in the regions. Marat Khusnullin noted the Chechen Republic, Penza, Nizhny Novgorod, Kursk regions and the Republic of Adygea, which consistently show good results and are successful in 17 or more programs.

    In addition, the Deputy Prime Minister noted the need to continue the active work of the Territorial Development Fund to monitor the activities of entities in terms of fulfilling plans for the major repairs of apartment buildings and implementing projects at the expense of infrastructure budget and special treasury loans. Thus, 289 facilities of engineering and utilities, road, transport, social infrastructure and infrastructure of the special economic zone have already been commissioned using IBC funds, more than 1.7 thousand units of public transport have been purchased and delivered. Thanks to the SCC, 18 facilities have been completed, and almost 6 thousand new buses have been delivered to the regions.

    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: NATO Secretary General to visit Germany

    Source: NATO

    On Monday, 4 November 2024, Secretary General Mark Rutte will travel to Berlin, Germany.

    The Secretary General will meet the President, Mr Frank-Walter Steinmeier, the Chancellor, Mr Olaf Scholz, the Minister of Defence, Mr Boris Pistorius, the Minister of Finance, Mr Christian Lindner, and other senior officials.

    Media advisory

    15:50 (CET)  Joint press conference by the Secretary General and the Chancellor of Germany

    Media coverage

    The press conference will be streamed live on the NATO website.

    A transcript of the Secretary General’s remarks, as well as photographs, will be on the NATO website. Video can be downloaded from the NATO Multimedia Portal after the event.

    For more information:
    General queries: contact the NATO Press Office
    Follow us on X: @NATO, @SecGenNATO and @NATOPress

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI China: The MND: China and India Jointly Safeguard Peace and Tranquility in the Border Areas 2024-10-31 China and India have reached resolutions on issues concerning the border areas through diplomatic and military channels. The frontline troops of the two militaries are making progress in implementing the resolutions in a orderly manner.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense 2

      Question: It is reported that China and India have reached a deal on patrol arrangements in the border areas, which can lead to disengagement, ending a conflict began in 2020. India’s Chief of Army Staff recently said that India hopes to restore the border situation to the state before April 2020, and gradually resume normal management along the Line of Control. May I have your comment?

      Zhang Xiaogang: China and India have reached resolutions on issues concerning the border areas through diplomatic and military channels. The frontline troops of the two militaries are making progress in implementing the resolutions in a orderly manner. President Xi Jinping met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the margins of the BRICS Summit held in Kazan, Russia. Both sides agreed that China and India should view and handle the bilateral relations from a strategic and long-term perspective, and make sure that differences on specific issues would not affect the overall bilateral relationship. We hope the Indian side will work together with China, take the important common understandings between the two state leaders as guidance, continuously implement the above-mentioned resolutions, and jointly safeguard peace and tranquility in the border areas.

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Euan Hutton permanently appointed as Sellafield CEO

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Euan Hutton has been permanently appointed the Sellafield CEO, effective from  1 November 2024, having fulfilled the role on an interim basis since July 2023.

    In confirming Euan’s appointment, Sellafield Ltd’s Chairman, Chris Train, said:

    I am pleased to announce that, with support from the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA), UK Government and Sellafield Ltd Board, I have today appointed Euan Hutton permanently to the role of Sellafield Ltd CEO.

    Euan has been interim CEO since July last year, and has demonstrated his integrity and expertise, meeting challenges head on.  Anyone who knows Euan will know that he has the deepest respect for the people of Sellafield Ltd and the communities around us.

    I am confident that Euan is the right leader for Sellafield Ltd and that he will continue to deliver what the organisation needs.

    Euan, who lives near Cockermouth, began his career on the Sellafield Ltd graduate programme. He has held positions at Sellafield and across the UK and international nuclear industry during his 31-year career.

    He has extensive experience of Sellafield’s operations and challenges, having served in a number of senior leadership roles, including Chief Nuclear Officer.

    Welcoming Euan’s permanent appointment, NDA Chief Executive David Peattie, said:

    I want to personally thank Euan for his dedication since taking on the role of interim CEO in July last year, and to acknowledge the progress we’ve seen under his leadership.    

    Euan’s passion and commitment for the business, its nationally important mission and the people working to deliver it, is clear.

    I am pleased he will now be instrumental in leading Sellafield’s next chapter, and enabling us to deliver our collective goal, to create a clean and safe environment for future generations.

    Euan said:

    It is an honour to continue to lead Sellafield Ltd as we enter what I believe will be the company’s most exciting chapter yet.

    At Sellafield we must continue to make progress in tackling one of the biggest environmental remediation challenges in the UK. We must also continue to bring our skills to bear on supporting other national priorities – from security of energy supply through spent fuel management, or national security through world-class guardianship of special nuclear materials.

    At the heart of our complex work are the people of Sellafield Ltd and I want to thank them for their support, dedication, and flexibility over the last year. It is their skills and expertise that gives me confidence as I look to the challenges and opportunities ahead.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: FCDO Indo-Pacific Minister statement on North Korea ICBM launch

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The UK has condemned the launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile by North Korea on 30 October.

    FCDO Minister for the Indo-Pacific Catherine West said:

    The UK condemns the latest launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile on 30 October by North Korea; these actions clearly breach multiple UN Security Council Resolutions (UNSCRs).

    Unlawful ballistic missile launches are deeply damaging for regional stability and continue to destabilise the peace and security of the Korean Peninsula.

    The UK will continue to call out violations of UNSCRs. We urge North Korea to refrain from illegal launches, return to dialogue, and abandon its illegal nuclear and ballistic weapons programme.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Denis Manturov held another meeting on providing assistance to the Kursk region

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    The meeting was attended by the head of the region, Alexey Smirnov, representatives of the Government Office, and federal executive authorities.

    The issues discussed included providing all types of assistance to the population and enterprises of the region, organizing medical services, the operation of housing and communal services systems and resource supply organizations, and the execution of the regional budget.

    Alexey Smirnov informed First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov that the Kursk Region government is constantly interacting with the federal center on issues of supporting border residents. As the governor noted, to date, almost all victims have received one-time payments. Work on the remaining applicants will be completed in the near future. At the moment, payments to residents of the Kursk Region for full or partial loss of property, payments due for damage to health, and housing certificates are being issued.

    Denis Manturov noted the need to maintain constant interaction between federal executive authorities and the region and promptly consider requests received from the Kursk region.

    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 –