NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Mechanical engineering and technical re-equipment: challenges and opportunities for engineering universities

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    The XVII scientific and industrial forum “Technical re-equipment of machine-building enterprises of Russia” is held in Yekaterinburg every year. The event brings together more than a thousand participants from the Sverdlovsk region and other federal districts. This time, experts discussed the development of new technologies at machine-building enterprises, personnel training, labor productivity and improving product quality.

    As part of the forum, a meeting of the council for work with personnel of the Union of Defense Industry Enterprises of the Sverdlovsk Region and the Sverdlovsk regional branch of the Union of Mechanical Engineers of Russia was held at the High-Tech Technopark.

    The forum will last until November 14, thematic sections will work at sites throughout the city. Representatives of mechanical engineering companies, universities, and government bodies will give reports, discuss ideas and proposals.

    The section “New Personnel for the Defense Industrial Complex and Mechanical Engineering” brought together representatives of the Sverdlovsk Region government, heads of HR departments of industrial enterprises and representatives of educational and scientific organizations. The main topic was the development and implementation of basic and additional educational programs for training professions that are in short supply for defense industry and mechanical engineering enterprises.

    Head of the Directorate of Continuing Education and Industry Partnership Ivan Kurta represented SPbPU. In the report “Development of Human Capital in Partnership with Industry: Polytechnic University Experience in the Interests of the Defense-Industrial and Machine-Building Complexes” Ivan Valentinovich spoke about the training and retraining of personnel, shared the unique experience of the university in designing and implementing educational programs to meet the needs of industrial partners.

    Particular interest from participants gave rise to joint projects with corporate universities, in particular, the campus of internal trainers and teachers held in August of this year under the auspices of Gazprom Neft, as well as programs in the field of engineering, the demand for which from the industry is growing every year.

    For us, this platform is important in terms of our positioning in the region. The Union of Defense Industry Enterprises of the Sverdlovsk Region and the Sverdlovsk Regional Branch of the Union of Mechanical Engineers of Russia can play a special role in promoting the educational and scientific environment of the Polytechnic University. We plan to discuss joint projects in the near future, said Ivan Kurta.

    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 United Kingdom: There’s snow place like home

    Source: City of Birmingham

    Join the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, the Mayor of Frankfurt and German Ambassador to the UK at this year’s official opening of the Frankfurt Christmas Market in Victoria Square on Friday 1 November at 5:30pm, as they switch on the city’s festive lights.

    This year the market returns to the city for seven weeks and celebrates its 24th year, featuring 60 festive stalls selling traditional hot gluhwein, schnitzel, spicy sausage, gifts, handcrafted decorations, toys and jewellery.

    The big wheel and popular ice rink will also be returning to Centenary Square, and will open from 1 November 2024 until 5 January 2025, between 10:00am and 10:00pm (except on Christmas Day). For more information and to book tickets visit www.iceskatebirmingham.co.uk.

    There will also be live performances on the bandstand in Victoria Square with Monday ‘open mic’ sessions giving young, up and coming performers and musicians a chance to showcase their talents. The best two acts will perform in a primetime December slot.

    Choirs from local schools, charities and community groups will also feature on the market’s community music programme.

    German musicians will perform weekday lunchtimes and evenings daily, with local performers performing between 12pm and 6pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

    The market will opens Friday 1 November to Tuesday 24 December 2024.

    • Mondays to Thursdays: 11:00am to 9:00pm
    • Fridays: 11:00am to 9:30pm
    • Saturdays: 10:00am to 9:30pm
    • Sundays: 10:00am to 9:00pm

    The market will be closed until 1:00pm on 10 November for Remembrance Sunday.

    Councillor Saima Suleman, Cabinet Member for Digital, Culture, Heritage and Tourism, said: “This year we welcome the 24th Frankfurt Christmas Market to the city, which brings with it a selection of traditional food, drink and gifts.

    “The market is an event many look forward to this time year and makes a wonderful festive day out for families.

    “We are proud the Christmas market was crowned the best Christmas market in the UK for the second year running which provides a huge economic boost for the city. The market is also ranked eighth in Europe, which usually attracts up to 5 million visitors to the city.”

    For more information about the city’s Frankfurt Christmas Market, visit www.thebfcm.co.uk.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Witnesses testify to the abuse Ukrainian civilians suffer in Russian detention: UK statement to the OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Ambassador Holland shares harrowing details from witness testimony event in London and urges Russia to release all Ukrainian citizens it has arbitrarily detained.

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

    Thank you, Madam Chair. Since Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea in 2014, its actions in Ukraine have featured widespread reports of arbitrary detention, enforced disappearances, extrajudicial executions of Prisoners of War and civilian detainees, and other serious violations of human rights.

    Activists, journalists, community leaders, and those perceived as supportive of Ukrainian sovereignty have faced persecution and illegal detention by Russian forces in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine. Many are sent to far-flung regions within the Russian Federation. They are held in prisons, pre-detention centres, and unofficial places of detention. Their families are often denied information about their whereabouts or access to them, causing great distress and an inability to organise effective legal counsel.

    Since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, these practices have increased in both frequency and severity, with thousands of Ukrainian civilians held incommunicado and denied their fundamental rights. Independent reports, including the latest Moscow Mechanism, detail inhumane conditions, from physical abuse to psychological coercion.

    Madam Chair, these actions constitute violations of international law but behind them lie personal stories of human suffering. This week two Ukrainian civilians, Hryhorii Holovko and Oleksandra Stoliar, shared theirs at an event held in the UK Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office, supported by the Ukrainian NGO, Media Initiative for Human Rights.

    Hryhorii Holovko was detained by Russian forces in Kherson in October 2022. Russian forces tortured and intimidated him, including beatings and electric shocks and by carving Russian symbols into his body. Russian guards made threats against his wife and child and forced him to sing the Russian national anthem. Hryhorii was released in May 2023, having been forced to sign papers to align with the Russian state. His story is familiar to many others who have survived Russian occupation.

    Oleksandra Stoliar is mother to 26-year-old Iryna Navalnaya who is still being unlawfully detained. Russian forces took Iryna from her home in Mariupol in September 2022. Two months passed before Iryna’s family discovered she was being held in a prison in Donetsk. Women who have been released from this prison have shared accounts of the beatings and other barbaric treatment Iryna has experienced during interrogations, leaving her covered in bruises. They report that detainees are regularly denied access to medical assistance. Iryna’s mother worries continually that she might die in captivity.

    These testimonies are just two out of thousands. We recall that three Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) members, our colleagues, are also subjected to this systematic arbitrary detention.

    The UK stands in solidarity with them and Ukraine – and reaffirms the urgent need for accountability. We call on Russia to fully cooperate with international mechanisms investigating these abuses, grant immediate access to humanitarian organisations to all facilities where Ukrainian civilians are being held, and uphold its obligations to protect civilians and respect human rights. Russia must release all arbitrarily detained Ukrainian citizens, including Iryna Navalnaya and the SMM members. We call on Russia to end its illegal war and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 October 2024

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New light trail to illuminate Derby this Christmas

    Source: City of Derby

    A magical light trail will illuminate the streets of Derby city centre for the festive season. Derby City Council and the Cathedral Quarter and St Peter’s Quarter Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) have teamed up to create the new attraction.

    The Festive Derby Light Trail will see several stunning light installations lead from The Spot all the way to Cathedral Square, taking in the Market Place, where the Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink and Nordic Bar will be situated.

    Starting with the beautifully wrapped rings at The Spot, with festive foliage and twinkling lights, the trail will wind its way through the heart of the city. Grab a bite to eat and let the kids enjoy the festive rides before heading down to St Peter’s Cross to see the jolly Rudolph arch, complete with his red nose, and then onto a tunnel of light which will run through Cornmarket.

    As you enter the Market Place, the colourfully lit Christmas presents will sit with the Christmas tree as a backdrop and you’ll also find the highlight of the trail – the UK’s largest light-up Santa installation, powered by Tomato Energy. It’ll be the perfect spot for a festive family shot!

    A curtain of light will illuminate Irongate up to Cathedral Square, where a giant gold star will sit below the Cathedral.

    After all that walking why not enjoy a festive drink in the cosy tipis of our Nordic Bar and then, when you have had time to rest, take a whizz around the ice rink with family and friends. Afterwards you can enjoy food from a variety of food stalls on the Market Place, including loaded fries, grilled sausages, donuts and crepes.

    You will be able to find a map of the trail at festivederby.co.uk soon, or download the LoyalFree app to follow the trail – and check in at each location to enter our free prize draw. You can also pick up an activity sheet from the ice rink or Nordic bar for little ones to fill in along the way. You could win a Nintendo Switch, with other prizes including tickets for next year’s Darley Park Weekender, or tickets to enjoy the ice rink or panto in 2025!

    Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council, said:

    We’re already getting excited about this Christmas in Derby. The new light trail promises to be a magical addition to our packed festive programme. It’ll light the way through the city centre to the Cathedral, providing plenty of fantastic photo opportunities along the way!

    Brad Worley, Manager for Cathedral Quarter and St Peter’s Quarter Derby BIDs, added:

    The BIDs are thrilled to bring this amazing light installation trail to the city.

    There are some truly impressive installations and we hope people will take some memorable photos and share with friends and family, as well as entering the fantastic prize draw. We want people to explore the city and experience what our wonderful businesses have to offer this festive period.

    Dominika Walker, Regional Community Engagement Lead for Tomato Energy, said:

    At Tomato Energy, we’re lighting up the holiday season in more ways than one! We’re absolutely delighted to support this year’s Festive Derby and proud to sponsor the UK’s largest illuminated Santa.

    We hope it will not only bring joy to the community but also spark conversations about efficient energy use during the festive season. It’s our way of spreading holiday cheer while showcasing how cutting-edge technology and sustainability can go hand in hand.

    The Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink and Nordic Bar will open on Saturday 30 November, as Festive Derby is officially launched with our Christmas Lights Switch-On event, with our media partner Smooth Radio.

    Tickets for the ice rink are on sale now and, of course, the festive season wouldn’t be complete without Derby’s annual panto spectacular at Derby Arena. Morgan Brind and the multi award-winning Little Wolf Entertainment are back with Cinderella from Fri 6 – Tue 31 Dec.

    Derby has a great selection of festive events this year and more information can be found at festivederby.co.uk or pick up a guide from November.

    Tickets can be purchased on the Derby LIVE website, at the Sales and Information Centre Sales & Information Centre, Guildhall Theatre, Market Place, Derby, DE1 3AE or call 01332 255800.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Aid for maize growers in Galicia after hurricane Kirk – P-002327/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    30.10.2024

    Priority question for written answer  P-002327/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Adrián Vázquez Lázara (PPE)

    In early October, hurricane Kirk caused major destruction in Galicia, especially in maize farms, which prevented the use of machinery needed for harvesting. There are around 73 000 hectares of maize in Galicia. The access difficulties farms are facing prevent the usual crop rotation, which in turn affects applications for CAP payments In addition, the low coverage of insurance policies should be noted.

    With this in mind, I would like to ask the following:

    • 1.What European aid can those affected apply for to compensate for the damage caused by this meteorological phenomenon?
    • 2.Could Spain benefit from the amendments adopted recently following the floods in Poland and other Member States, to mobilise various European funds (ERDF, EAFRD, Cohesion Fund, etc.) in the event of a climate disaster?

    Submitted: 30.10.2024

    Last updated: 31 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Commission finds Française des Jeux (‘FDJ’)’s exclusive rights contain no state aid after amendments

    Source: EuroStat – European Statistics

    European Commission Press release Brussels, 31 Oct 2024 The European Commission has concluded that the increased remuneration by Française des Jeux (‘FDJ’) to France for the modification of exclusive rights to operate offline and online lottery games and offline sports betting through 2019 PACTE law is in line with EU State aid rules.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Inconsistency between EU legislation and policies in the area of livestock health protection – E-002239/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    23.10.2024

    Question for written answer  E-002239/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Jadwiga Wiśniewska (ECR)

    I have noticed with concern that the health of farm animals is deteriorating. In Poland, for example, successive outbreaks of African swine fever are causing huge losses for our farmers, sometimes forcing them to close down their farms entirely.

    Meanwhile, our livestock farmers and agricultural producers are bound by more than 400 different pieces of veterinary legislation, which are not always precisely worded, are often inconsistent and are thus interpreted differently in different Member States.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.Animal isolation is crucial in preventing and limiting the spread of zoonoses – will our farmers be receiving alternative tools to reduce health risks on their farms, and what will those alternative tools be?
    • 2.Does the Commission envisage any additional ad hoc and long-term financial support for biosecurity measures from funds outside the common agricultural policy?

    Submitted: 23.10.2024

    Last updated: 31 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU manufacturing and exportation of green energy products – E-002259/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    24.10.2024

    Question for written answer  E-002259/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Mihai Tudose (S&D)

    The Eurostat report of 14 October 2024 shows a serious imbalance between EU imports and exports of green energy products.

    The EU imported solar panels to the value of EUR 19.7 billion in 2023, while exporting EUR 0.9 billion worth of that product, with 98 % of the solar panels imported coming from China. At the same time, we purchase – mainly from China, Great Britain and India – almost twice as much liquid biofuel as we export, making this another product in which the EU has a negative trade balance.

    On the other hand, sales of wind turbines have recovered strongly over the past two years, with EU exports increasing by 49 % to EUR 2 billion in 2023, while turbines worth EUR 0.3 billion were imported from outside the Union. That is encouraging progress.

    As a member of the Committee on International Trade, I would like to know what steps the Commission envisages taking in the very near future to encourage the manufacturing and export of green energy products in the EU?

    Submitted: 24.10.2024

    Last updated: 31 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: The Swiss Science Council SSC Presents its 2024–2027 Working Programme

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    The Swiss Science Council (SSC) is the advisory body to the Federal Council on issues related to education, research and innovation policy. In the Working Programme for the years 2024–2027, the Council outlines its thematic priorities. These include questions on artificial intelligence, universities of applied sciences, climate change and research libraries. In addition, the SSC conducts various evaluations.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Drastic decline of the European hedgehog and the need for urgent measures for its protection – E-002233/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    23.10.2024

    Question for written answer  E-002233/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Sebastian Everding (The Left), Tilly Metz (Verts/ALE), Krzysztof Śmiszek (S&D), Cristina Guarda (Verts/ALE), Jonas Sjöstedt (The Left), Lynn Boylan (The Left), Maria Noichl (S&D), Anja Hazekamp (The Left), Tomáš Kubín (PfE), Erik Marquardt (Verts/ALE)

    The hedgehog[1] plays a vital role in preserving the biodiversity and balance of green spaces. However, experts warn that its population is expected to decrease by up to 50 % in the span of a decade as a result of the destruction of its natural habitats by human activity.

    The hedgehog is under serious threat because of habitat loss and food scarcity. This has caused its reproduction rates to decline and has led to it being added to a range of endangered species lists. In Germany, for instance, the hedgehog, which is also the wild animal of the year 2024, is now on the early warning list of endangered species. Unfortunately, there is no precise estimate of the hedgehog population in Europe.

    • 1.What concrete measures does the Commission plan to take for the preservation and conservation of Erinaceus europaeus?
    • 2.Does the Commission plan to propose a scientific review of the conservation status of the hedgehog population across the EU, and if so, when exactly?
    • 3.The North African hedgehog is listed in Annex IV of the Habitats Directive, yet it remains a popular pet. Are there any measures the Commission believes should be taken regarding this protected species being kept as a pet?

    Submitted: 23.10.2024

    • [1] Erinaceus europaeus.
    Last updated: 31 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Accountability of Airbus in the Privatisation of TAP – E-002221/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    22.10.2024

    Question for written answer  E-002221/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    João Oliveira (The Left)

    The Inspectorate-General of Finance of the Portuguese Republic has carried out an audit that points to the participation of Airbus – a European multinational – in an illegal and criminal scheme for financing TAP’s privatisation in 2015.

    The same conclusion had already been reached by a Portuguese Parliamentary Committee of Inquiry, whose work was completed a year ago. At that time, the Assembly of the Republic asked the Government to request that the European Union investigate that participation and establish the necessary accountabilities for the difficulties that said participation created for the Portuguese Republic.

    In the meantime, the Portuguese Prime Minister has informed the Assembly of the Republic that the Government has not taken ‘any steps’ to implement that resolution of the Assembly of the Republic. This was a regrettable choice, but one that only serves to hold accountable those to made it (the last two Portuguese governments).

    But the question was already referred directly to the European Commission (questions E-001889/2023[1] and P-002436/2023[2]), so we are asking again:

    • 1.Has the European Commission already carried out an assessment of the role played by Airbus in the privatisation process of TAP, in 2015, and its accountability for the damage caused to the Portuguese Republic by that privatisation?
    • 2.If so, what are the results of that assessment? If not, why has no assessment been carried out?

    Submitted: 22.10.2024

    • [1] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-9-2023-001889_EN.html
    • [2] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/P-9-2023-002436_EN.html
    Last updated: 31 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Acceleration areas – E-002227/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    22.10.2024

    Question for written answer  E-002227/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Nicolás González Casares (S&D)

    The Autonomous Community of Galicia is the subject of an infringement case for failure to conform to the Habitats Directive with regard to the area and the management of the Natura 2000 Network, as the Galician Government has protected an area equivalent to only 13 % of the territory – compared with the 20 % laid down in the directive – and has large deficits in its management figures, as evidenced by the Commission’s answer to my question E-002754/2022[1], in which the Commission wrote that it ‘considers that the Master Plan established by Galicia for the management of Natura 2000 does not meet the requirements of the Habitats Directive’.

    To conform to the revised Renewable Energy Directive, the competent authorities must designate renewables acceleration areas by February 2026 at the latest. In the light of the above:

    • 1.Does the Commission consider it appropriate to set acceleration areas without nature conservation measures in line with EU legislation having been taken?
    • 2.Does the Commission believe that the coverage of the Natura 2000 network should be extended so that it conforms to the Habitats Directive before acceleration areas are set?

    Submitted: 22.10.2024

    • [1] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-9-2022-002754-ASW_EN.html
    Last updated: 31 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Digital education – E-002098/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    16.10.2024

    Question for written answer  E-002098/2024/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Daniel Buda (PPE)

    The UK has announced that it is introducing classes into the primary and secondary school curricula in which students will learn to think critically and identify fake news in the press and online media. The Minister for Education, Bridget Phillipson, has stated that the aim is to prepare children to distinguish between real and false information, and also to recognise conspiracy theories and extremist content.

    Although the details of how this will be done are unclear, various methods have been suggested. For example, during their English classes, students could analyse newspaper articles, while in IT classes they could learn how to recognise fake news sites. Teachers could also present statistics on disinformation during mathematics classes.

    The EU can work with Member States to incorporate digital skills into school curricula. This includes training in critical thinking, assessing information sources and digital security, thereby helping students to better navigate the online world. What can the Commission do to help prepare the younger generations meet these new challenges?

    Submitted: 16.10.2024

    Last updated: 31 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Commission’s policy on antisemitism and the IHRA working definition of antisemitism – P-002324/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    30.10.2024

    Priority question for written answer  P-002324/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Matjaž Nemec (S&D)

    In its activities tackling antisemitism, the Commission says it regards the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism as ‘the benchmark’ and cooperates with the Israeli Government, including in the EU-Israel High Level Seminar on combating racism, xenophobia and antisemitism.

    • 1.In view of a recent study[1] revealing that the Commission had misrepresented the results of a 2018 key survey by the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) with regard to the IHRA definition of antisemitism, can the Commission confirm it will henceforth refrain from such misrepresentations, in line with its declared commitment to evidence-based policymaking, also when addressing the most recent FRA survey, published in July 2024?
    • 2.Recalling an earlier statement by Commission Coordinator on combating antisemitism Katharina von Schnurbein, which denied that the EU is conditioning its funding based on the IHRA definition of antisemitism[2], can the Commission confirm it does not and will not apply any IHRA definition-based funding conditionality when granting and controlling EU funding?
    • 3.How does the Commission address and counter the escalating political instrumentalisation of antisemitism by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and government ministers targeting, among others, the UN Secretary-General and UN human rights bodies, the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice?

    Submitted: 30.10.2024

    • [1] European Middle East Project, ‘Does the IHRA working definition of antisemitism reflect the views of most European Jews? An assessment of the evidence from the 2018 survey of the EU Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA)’, July 2024, https://archive.jpr.org.uk/object-4216.
    • [2] https://x.com/kschnurbein/status/1600847328449277952.
    Last updated: 31 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Procurement of face masks in the fight against COVID-19 and the ramifications thereof – E-002236/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    23.10.2024

    Question for written answer  E-002236/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Christine Anderson (ESN)

    According to media reports from various EU Member States, there were significant irregularities in the procurement of protective face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. In some cases, low-quality masks were purchased at exorbitant prices, leading to legal disputes and strains on public budgets possibly amounting to billions. This raises questions about the level playing field and budgetary discipline in the internal market.

    • 1.What role did the Commission play in the procurement of protective face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic and to what extent were procurement processes in the Member States coordinated or supervised?
    • 2.What is the Commission’s assessment of the financial risks arising from the ongoing legal disputes relating to the procurement of face masks for Member States’ budgets with regard to compliance with EU debt rules?
    • 3.What measures does the Commission intend to take with regard to future cases of procurement during crisis situations in the Member States in order to prevent distortions of competition resulting from improper procurement procedures and lobby influence?

    Submitted: 23.10.2024

    Last updated: 31 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Difference in energy prices between the western and eastern EU – E-002097/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    16.10.2024

    Question for written answer  E-002097/2024/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Daniel Buda (PPE)

    Romania is facing significantly higher energy prices than western European countries, and this is putting additional pressure on its economy and its population. The situation is a result of a number of factors, such as a year of drought, which affected hydroelectricity production, and other region-specific difficulties.

    Given the circumstances, Romania is considering seeking EU financial support from the Council of Ministers, in order to counter the effects of these significant energy price hikes.

    • 1.In view of the European Union’s objectives of ensuring economic and social cohesion between Member States, what steps is the Commission contemplating to support Romania and other countries affected by these imbalances in the energy sector?
    • 2.Is the Commission planning to provide financial support or introduce policies that narrow the gap between energy prices in eastern and western Europe so as to ensure a fair and sustainable transition for all EU regions?

    Submitted: 16.10.2024

    Last updated: 31 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Bundesrat Cassis unterstreicht in Montréal die Bedeutung der humanitären Aspekte auf dem Weg zu einem Frieden in der Ukraine (de)

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    Am 30. Oktober 2024 nahm Bundesrat Ignazio Cassis in Kanada an der Konferenz über humanitäre Aspekte für einen gerechten und dauerhaften Frieden in der Ukraine teil. Das Treffen in Montréal schliesst die Reihe der im Juni 2024 anlässlich der Konferenz auf dem Bürgenstock angekündigten Folgekonferenzen ab. Im Rahmen der Konferenz in Montréal führte der Vorsteher des EDA politische Gespräche mit der kanadischen Aussenministerin Mélanie Joly, dem ukrainischen Aussenminister Andrij Sybiha und dem norwegischen Aussenminister Espen Barth Eide.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Ostrava’s encore

    Source: European Investment Bank

    Janáček Philharmonic is one of the leading symphonic orchestras in Czechia. Named after the famous composer Leoš Janáček, who was born in a village near Ostrava, it has hosted major conductors and composers such as Igor Stravinsky, Sergei Prokofiev, and Paul Hindemith. Today, it continues to bring pride to the people and the region.

    When Žemla and local authorities explored new designs for the concert hall, they looked for something that would capture the orchestra’s spirit and significance to the city. They received such a proposal from Steven Holl, a world-class architect renowned for his profound love of music.

    “Steven had the idea that the orchestra itself is the instrument, and the case for that is the hall,” he says. “Just as a case safeguards a delicate and sensitive instrument, the building will do the same for the orchestra.”   

    The new concert hall’s design mimics the organic shapes of a musical instrument case, reflecting Holl’s inspiration from both music and architecture. Holl designed an innovative interior with perforated wooden panels and lighting, creating a space that resonates with musical logic.

    Beyond its primary function as a concert hall, the venue will also serve as a versatile theatre space and host a variety of cultural and educational activities. “There will be theatre halls, educational centres, and spaces for social events, ensuring the building is alive all day, not just during concerts,” says Žemla.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: COP16

    Source: European Union 2

    CBD COP16 is taking place in Cali, Colombia, 21 October – 1 November 2024. A full programme of events on transformative actions to deliver on the Global Biodiversity Framework is taking place at the EU Pavilion. Find out more about the EU’s position and aims for COP16 in the Council Conclusions. 

    The Technical Support Instrument (TSI) has helped 27 Member States to implement the Green Deal by designing and implementing reforms on climate change mitigation, tackling green washing and sustainability reporting, climate change adaptation, energy, environment and the circular economy, sustainable mobility, the just transition, green procurement and green budgeting, green taxation – directing public and private financing to sustainable investments.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Sandy Spring Bancorp Declares Quarterly Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OLNEY, Md., Oct. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc., (Nasdaq- SASR), the parent company of Sandy Spring Bank, announced that the board of directors declared a quarterly common stock dividend of $0.34 per share payable on November 21, 2024, to shareholders of record on November 14, 2024. This dividend is consistent with the previous linked quarter and the fourth quarter of 2023.

    About Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc./Sandy Spring Bank

    Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc., headquartered in Olney, Maryland, is the holding company for Sandy Spring Bank, a premier community bank in the Greater Washington, D.C. region. With over 50 locations, the bank offers a broad range of commercial and retail banking, mortgage, private banking, and trust services throughout Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Through its subsidiaries, Rembert Pendleton Jackson  and West Financial Services, Inc., Sandy Spring Bank also offers a comprehensive menu of wealth management services.

    For additional information or questions, please contact:
            Daniel J. Schrider, Chair, President & Chief Executive Officer, or
            Charles S. Cullum, Executive V.P. & Chief Financial Officer
            Sandy Spring Bancorp
            17801 Georgia Avenue
            Olney, Maryland 20832
            1-800-399-5919
            E-mail:        DSchrider@sandyspringbank.com
                                 CCullum@sandyspringbank.com
            Website:     www.sandyspringbank.com   

    Media Contact:
    Amber Washington, Senior Vice President
    301.774.6400 x5697
    awashington@sandyspringbank.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Watch live: Lords debates contribution of science and technology to the UK economy

    Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)

    Members speaking include the Astronomer Royal, doctors, scientists and former chief executive of the NHS.

    Find out more https://www.parliament.uk/business/news/2024/october/the-contribution-of-science-and-technology-to-the-uk-economy-on-lords-agenda/

    Catch-up on House of Lords business:

    Watch live events: https://parliamentlive.tv/Lords
    Read the latest news: https://www.parliament.uk/lords/

    Stay up to date with the House of Lords on social media:

    • Twitter: https://twitter.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/UKHouseofLords/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/ukhouseoflords/albums
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-house-of-lords
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@UKHouseOfLords

    #HouseOfLords #UKParliament #StateOpening

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6Uivr_GIO8

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Follow Captain Vanessa Von Viràg | UN Peacekeeping

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Follow Captain Vanessa Von Viràg from Switzerland as she carries out daily activities serving with the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP).

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lHT3-oM0C-Y

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Kosovo: Aspiration for reconstructive dialogue – Security Council Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Briefing by Caroline Ziadeh, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo, on the situation in Kosovo.

    —————————

    UN Special Representative for Kosovo Caroline Ziadeh said that although the situation on the ground remains fragile, in her engagements with officials in Belgrade and Pristina, as well as with partners, she sees hope for a constructive dialogue and peaceful relations.

    Briefing the Security Council today (30 Oct) about the UN Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), Ziadeh said, “Advancing and safeguarding human rights is at the very core of our mission in Kosovo. Against the background of recent developments, strengthening measures to further promote equality and non-discrimination are pivotal, in particular in upholding property rights, preserving cultural heritage, and fully observing the language rights of all communities.”

    She also said, “A year since the serious security incident in Banjska/Banjskë, I continue to call for timely accountability for perpetrators through thorough, fair, transparent and independent judicial processes, which are essential for fostering stability. Such violence is unacceptable and should not be repeated.”

    She continued, “In this regard, we note that the initial hearing on this case was conducted on the 9th of October at the basic court of Pristina against the three defendants who are in custody, out of a total of 45 accused in the indictment, who face a range of charges, including terrorism.”

    She noted, “Serbian goods have now resumed crossing into Kosovo. It is imperative that the current bottlenecks will be expeditiously addressed. This recent progress underscores the potential for deeper work toward regional integration via constructive diplomatic compromises.”

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Spain floods kill dozens

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Devastating flash floods in south-eastern Spain have killed dozens of people after torrential rain hit the area yesterday.

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appointment of Cambridge Growth Company Chair

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Housing Minister, Matthew Pennycook, has appointed Peter Freeman as the Chair of the Cambridge Growth Company to drive forward the government’s growth ambitions in Greater Cambridge.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    Appointment of Cambridge Growth Company Chair: Letter from Matthew Pennycook MP

    PDF, 154 KB, 5 pages

    Appointment of Cambridge Growth Company Chair: Letter from Matthew Pennycook MP

    HTML

    Details

    The Housing and Planning Minister has appointed Peter Freeman as Chair of the Cambridge Growth Company. The Growth Company will work with local partners to develop and start to deliver an ambitious plan for delivering high-quality sustainable growth in Cambridge and its environs.

    Peter is an accomplished development and regeneration professional with a track record of delivery and working in collaboration with local communities as well as private and public partners. He brings a wealth of experience in delivering complex mixed-use projects, including in his current role as Chair of Homes England and through the renowned redevelopment of King’s Cross.

    The Growth Company will focus on enabling and accelerating key developments in and around Cambridge, developing the evidence base to support an infrastructure-first growth plan and identifying solutions to complex constraints that are holding back sustainable growth.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 October 2024

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New support now available to help managers recruit

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Government Skills has launched training package to support recruitment managers’ and panel members.

    Government Campus has launched a new recruitment training suite to help managers get the knowledge and tools they need to recruit the right person to the right role. 

    The training uses evidence-based recruitment practices and ensures managers are sighted on legislation which sets out how they should approach recruiting staff.

    The new Success Profiles Recruitment using Success Profiles suite aims to provide flexible, practical training that improves recruitment outcomes and supports a positive candidate experience across government departments.

    It can be accessed through the Recruitment with Success Profiles page of Prospectus Online.

    The new suite comprises online resources, workshops, e-learning, animations, and podcasts. Courses cover best practices at each stage of recruitment, such as writing job descriptions, designing assessments, and assessing candidates. Much of the content is free with optional workshops that allow learners to practise skills in a structured setting. 

    To remain current, Government Campus are working closely with the Recruitment transformation team and will refresh the courses over the next two years based on learner feedback and shifts in recruitment practices, including advances in AI. 

    The older online courses: Success Profiles: Sifting and Interviewing and Designing Your Assessment Process will remain available on the website until the new year to allow departments to choose when to move to the new Recruitment with Success profiles courses. Departmental learning and development leads will be consulted before removal.

    Bookings for the new workshops are now available, with dates for open bookings being offered from January 2025. 

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: VW emissions manipulations: the Office of the Attorney General abandons its criminal proceedings with an abandonment order

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    The Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland (OAG) is abandoning the Swiss criminal proceedings in connection with VW’s emissions manipulations. A fine imposed on VOLKSWAGEN AG (VW AG) by the Braunschweig public prosecutor’s office (Germany) makes it impossible for the OAG to prosecute VW AG in Switzerland due to the transnational ban on double prosecution and double jeopardy. The OAG is therefore abandoning its criminal proceedings against VW AG. The suspicion against AMAG IMPORT AG (AMAG AG) and its responsible bodies and employees has not been substantiated. The OAG is therefore also abandoning its criminal proceedings against these suspects. The abandonment order is not yet final.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: One step closer to quantum technologies: Fundamental quantum model recreated from nanographenes

    Source: Switzerland – Federal Administration in English

    Quantum technologies exploit the unusual properties of the most fundamental building blocks of matter. They promise breakthroughs in communication, computing, sensors and much more. However, quantum states are fragile, and their effects are difficult to grasp, making research into real-world applications challenging. Empa researchers and their partners have now achieved a breakthrough: Using a kind of “quantum Lego”, they have been able to accurately realize a well-known theoretical quantum physics model in a synthetic material.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Missions – AFET ad-hoc delegation to the United Kingdom – 28-10-2024 – Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    FISC Mission to London (UK) – 19 to 20 June 2023 © Image used under the license from Adobe Stock

    A seven-member strong delegation of the Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET) travelled to the United Kingdom from 28 to 30 October 2024. This was the first official visit of the Committee abroad in this parliamentary term. The delegation discussed possibilities for strengthening of the EU-UK partnership, in particular in foreign and security affairs.

    This visit was also be an opportunity to exchange views on issues of global and regional significance such as the Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, the situation in the Middle East and tensions in the Indo-Pacific.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – AFET ad-hoc mission to the United Kingdom – 28-30 October – Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    European Union and UK © Adobe stock

    A seven-member strong delegation of the Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET) travelled to the United Kingdom from 28 to 30 October 2024. This was the first official visit of the Committee abroad in this parliamentary term. The delegation discussed possibilities for strengthening of the EU-UK partnership, in particular in foreign and security affairs.

    This visit was also be an opportunity to exchange views on issues of global and regional significance such as the Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, the situation in the Middle East and tensions in the Indo-Pacific.

    MIL OSI Europe News –