NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Local entrepreneur sets up shop in city centre Pop Up

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Local entrepreneur and e-tailer JAQUARD&Co are the second business to open in the city centre Portsmouth Pop Up shop. This business started online last year and has already achieved a six figure turnover selling quality home furnishings and décor. They will open for business on Saturday 2 November in the Portsmouth Pop Up shop located in Cascades.

    Paula Haq, entrepreneur and owner of JAQUARD&Co said:

    “I am thrilled to take on the Portsmouth Pop Up shop as a new experience for one of my brands. Not only will it give me exposure and new insights, but it is also a development for my business that I am grateful to explore.

    With the success of JAQUARD&CO online, I would love to see my small business expanding here in Portsmouth alongside the other upcoming brands I’m working on.

    The Portsmouth Pop Up scheme is a great opportunity for me to test run a physical store alongside my online business and grow my business”

    The Portsmouth Pop-Up shop, a joint venture between Portsmouth City Council, Cascades, and Flude, opened in February to address the increasing demand for business space in the city. The first tenant, Goly Natural, a local natural skincare business, has been so successful that they plan to establish a permanent shop next year.

    The Portsmouth Pop Up enables local entrepreneurs and small businesses to trade in a high street location without the commitment or cost of a longer-term lease.

    Councillor Steve Pitt, Leader of the council with responsibility for Economic Development said:

    “Despite changing behaviour on the high street, the retail property market remains promising. Pop Up shop schemes can help to bring life back into towns and city centres, whilst giving independent businesses a great opportunity to have a shop front in a prime retail location.

    It is fantastic to see the Portsmouth Pop Up initiative thriving and supporting local businesses like JAQUARD&Co to grow. This is a fantastic example of how we’re working together to regenerate the city centre. “

    Paula added:

    “I’ve been buying and selling products and services since I was 21 alongside my everyday job. When I bought my first house , decorating was my favourite thing to do. The homeware market was short on the things I wanted and instantly that became a business idea.

    I’m very excited to be opening my first ever store and I’m ready for the challenge”

    JAQUARD&Co move into Cascades ready for Christmas offering a range of simple, quality and affordable home furnishings and décor including, cushions, throws, candles, ornaments, dinnerware and kitchenware.

    Businesses can apply to rent the pop-up shop in Cascades, in Portsmouth’s city centre for a minimum of 13 weeks giving them a chance to engage with customers and launch products and services.

    For more information about Portsmouth Pop Up 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: DIT of Moscow: in the first nine months of this year, city residents used the “Removal of Unnecessary Things” service more than 28.6 thousand times

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Muscovites used the service in the first nine months of 2024 “Removal of unnecessary things” over 28.6 thousand times. During this time, they sent more than 719 tons of recyclable materials for recycling or environmentally friendly disposal, which is approximately equal to the weight of 10 medium-haul aircraft.

    In the capital Department of Information Technology (DIT) reported that the demand for the service is constantly growing: compared to the first three quarters of last year, the number of completed applications has increased by more than four thousand.

    “The “Removal of Unnecessary Things” service allows you to include an unlimited number of items in your application. At the same time, at the request of city residents, the list of items available for removal is constantly expanding. Thus, pianos, waste paper, wooden doors, window frames, small household appliances and electronics have been added to the service catalog. Residents of all districts of Moscow, including Zelenograd Administrative Okrug and TiNAO, can use the service,” said Boris Frolov, Deputy Head of the Department of Information Technology of the City of Moscow.

    Most often, city residents get rid of large household appliances using the “Removal of Unnecessary Things” service. For example, over the first nine months of this year, residents sent 7.6 thousand washing machines and 7.5 thousand refrigerators for disposal. These are the most frequently removed items.

    The record number of items since the beginning of this year was set by two user requests, each of which included 13 types of items. Among them were such items as a kitchen set, gas and electric stoves, a refrigerator, a washing machine, a wall unit, a wooden door, small electronics, a mattress and other items.

    To use the service, you need a standard or full account on the mos.ru portal. The application must specify name of items and their quantity, address, desired date and time of removal. The operator of the partner organization will call back within 10 minutes to clarify details and confirm the order.

    Specialists work daily and arrive even on the day of the request, if the application is sent before 18:00. Employees of the organization – the service partner will take out unnecessary things on average in just half an hour, even if there is no elevator in the building.

    Service “Removal of unnecessary things” started operating in October 2021. According to Sergei Sobyanin, over the entire period, city residents have sent for recycling or environmentally friendly disposal more than 84 thousand unnecessary things.

    The operation and development of the service is supervised by the capital’s departments information technology, housing and communal services and the State Institution “New Management Technologies”. Removal services are provided by a specialized partner organization.

    The use of digital technologies to improve the quality of life of city residents corresponds to the objectives of the national program “Digital Economy of the Russian Federation” and the regional project of the city of Moscow “Digital Public Administration”. More information about the national projects implemented in Moscow can be found on this page.

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145882073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Another 12 clinics to be reconstructed in central Moscow

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    In the Central Administrative District, another 12 clinics are being reconstructed as part of the second stage of the outpatient modernization program. Work is currently underway in nine medical institutions, and in three of them it will begin as the renovation is completed and the clinics that are already being reconstructed are opened. In the latter, work should be completed in 2025. In addition, one clinic included in the second stage of the outpatient modernization program is already accepting patients.

    “During the reconstruction, the internal layout of the buildings is changed, resulting in more open spaces, and the usable area is increased by converting basements and ground floors into storage and utility facilities. Particular attention during the work is paid to the selection of high-quality materials, modern design and interior. The clinics receive additional energy capacity to connect new and modern equipment. As a result, Muscovites receive high-quality medical services, and doctors – comfortable working conditions,” the press service said.

    Department of Capital Repairs of the City of Moscow.

    Currently, two children’s clinics are being modernized, located on Antonova-Ovseenko Street (building 8) and in Bolshoi Kozlovsky Lane (building 9, building 1). Work is also underway in seven adult medical institutions on Kazakova Street (building 17a), Ladozhskaya Street (building 4/6, building 1), Zamorenova Street (building 27), Bolshaya Bronnaya Street (building 3), Verkhnyaya Krasnoselskaya Street (building 21, building 1), Malaya Yakimanka Street (building 22, building 1) and in Bolshoi Nikolopeskovsky Lane (building 4, building 1). The total area of the buildings is about 60 thousand square meters.

    Many polyclinics will create conditions for the placement of modern mammographs, X-ray machines, including U-arc X-ray machines. In particular, a complex of rooms with functional zones will be prepared for this purpose, including a procedure room (where the X-ray machine will be placed), a control room (for remote control of the machine), specialist offices, auxiliary and utility rooms. Electrical insulating materials resistant to radiation and radiation will be used in the finishing of these zones. In addition, the rooms will have their own ventilation system. When arranging magnetic resonance imaging departments, the procedure room will be shielded using a Faraday cage. This will protect the equipment from the effects of external electromagnetic fields.

    “Some renovated polyclinic buildings will be equipped with rooms for testing the function of external respiration. A day hospital with eight beds will be set up in the medical facility on Malaya Yakimanka Street. In addition, the casualty department located in branch No. 2 of polyclinic No. 64 will be renovated and equipped with modern equipment,” the department’s press service noted.

    Branch No. 1 of Children’s Polyclinic No. 32 and the main building of the adult polyclinic on Malaya Yakimanka Street will have fully equipped rooms for therapeutic exercise classes, and wall bars will also be installed in them. In the main building of Polyclinic No. 220, a halochamber will be re-equipped for the treatment of various respiratory diseases.

    In Branch No. 1 of Children’s Polyclinic No. 104 and Branch No. 1 of Children’s Polyclinic No. 32, filter boxes with an area of about 20 square meters will be created. This will separate the flows of healthy and sick children and thus prevent the spread of infection. In addition, stroller storage with awnings will be set up at the entrances to the buildings in both polyclinics.

    Branch No. 1 of Children’s Polyclinic No. 32 will equip an electro-light therapy room. It will use various types of electric current for treatment, so special materials that do not generate static electricity will be used in the finishing of the premises.

    During the work, not only the clinic buildings are being renovated, but also the adjacent areas. They are being made more convenient and comfortable.

    In one of the polyclinics included in the second stage of the outpatient modernization program, all work has already been completed and patients are being received. The main building of Polyclinic No. 5 on Daev Lane has been almost completely rebuilt – it now has more general practitioner offices, procedure rooms and manipulation rooms. A medical prevention department has been organized, massage rooms, physiotherapy rooms, and a therapeutic exercise room are provided. Specialists have also improved the adjacent territory.

    As part of the first stage of the program, six children’s and eight adult medical institutions were renovated in the district. The work took place in the Arbat, Khamovniki, Tagansky, Presnensky, Krasnoselsky, Meshchansky and Tverskoy districts. These clinics now meet the requirements new Moscow standard. In addition to the buildings themselves, the surrounding areas were also transformed. Specialists arranged convenient paths, installed benches, urns and navigation steles. In addition, the areas were additionally landscaped: about 120 trees and more than 1.1 thousand bushes were planted.

    Moscow Mayor Talks About Implementation of New Moscow Healthcare Standard

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145883073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The capital has provided four sites for the construction of public and business complexes in the Kommunarka district

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Since the beginning of 2024, the city has allocated four land plots for the implementation of large-scale investment projects (MaIP) in the Kommunarka district of the Novomoskovsky administrative district. It is planned to build public and business complexes on them. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Urban Development Policy and Construction Vladimir Efimov.

    “Large-scale investment projects allow us to attract developers to develop urban infrastructure and create jobs. Since the beginning of 2024, the city has provided 5.4 hectares of land in the Kommunarka district of the Novomoskovsky administrative district for the construction of four multifunctional complexes. The total area of the facilities will exceed 340 thousand square meters,” said Vladimir Efimov.

    The complexes may include office real estate, bank branches, cafes, restaurants, shops and other facilities. They will be built within five years – this is the term for which the land lease agreements have been concluded.

    “An administrative and business center is being formed on the territory of Kommunarka. For the construction of multifunctional complexes with a total area of about 300 thousand square meters, the city has provided investors with three plots of land with an area of 3.7 hectares. Another 1.7 hectares of land have been allocated near the Kornilovskaya metro station under construction, where a business center with an area of almost 44 thousand square meters will appear,” said the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of City Property

    Maxim Gaman.

    The plots are provided for the implementation of large-scale investment projects. Investors and developers receive land for the construction of facilities without holding tenders. MAIP are significant projects for the city, aimed at the infrastructural development of the capital’s territories and an increase in the number of jobs.

    Previously on the implementation of large-scale investment projects told Sergei Sobyanin. According to him, since the beginning of the year, the largest number of land plots have been allocated in the territory of TiNAO – 18.

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145888073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow’s electrical equipment manufacturers increased production by 11 percent

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Moscow manufacturers of electrical equipment continue to demonstrate high rates of growth in production volumes. From January to August 2024, enterprises in the industry increased production by 11 percent. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry Maxim Liksutov.

    “Today, Moscow’s electrical engineering industry is represented by more than 130 enterprises – these are both large players with a long history and young companies. The industry employs 17 thousand people. On behalf of Sergei Sobyanin, the city offers manufacturers more than 20 support tools that allow them to expand their production base, create high-tech products and increase production volumes. In the first eight months of 2024, Moscow saw an 11 percent increase in electrical equipment production compared to the same period in 2023. Companies shipped goods worth almost 124 billion rubles to customers,” said Maxim Liksutov.

    From January to August 2024, the production of electric motors, generators, transformers and distribution devices, as well as control and measuring equipment, increased by 14 percent, and household appliances by 10 percent. In particular, Moscow industrialists manufactured over 513 thousand chandeliers, about 103 thousand signaling devices and equipment for ensuring the safety of transport infrastructure, and over 67 thousand DC electric motors.

    “The positive growth trend indicates that Moscow manufacturers are actively developing new markets and confidently meeting the needs of citizens and businesses for quality products. From January to August 2024, industrialists shipped cable products worth 28.7 billion rubles, generators, transformers, switchgear and control and measuring equipment – almost 67 billion rubles,” said the Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Department of Investment and Industrial Policy

    Anatoly Garbuzov.

    Today, industrialists have all the tools to find a site for production with the support of the city, open it in a short time, attract additional investment, purchase the necessary equipment and enter export markets.

    For example, the company “SAGA Technologies” is actively developing the electric vehicle industry. Today, the plant produces 11 models of charging stations, which are supplied to 11 regions of the country. In the first eight months of this year, the company has produced more than 300 pieces of such high-tech products, which are used for both personal and commercial use.

    This year, the company received the status of a resident of the special economic zone (SEZ) “Technopolis Moscow”, which will allow it to enjoy tax preferences. Thus, companies with a special status are exempt from paying property, land and transport taxes for 10 years, and the profit tax rate for them is only two percent instead of 20.

    The capital manufacturer of lighting equipment “Varton” daily produces up to 10 thousand products of any type of lighting: indoor, outdoor, landscape, architectural, street and highway. Products are developed in the company’s own design bureau, including for individual customer needs.

    Moscow is the largest industrial and scientific-engineering center of Russia. There are more than 4.5 thousand industrial enterprises in the capital, employing over 750 thousand people. Every year, 150 new technology companies open in the city and dozens of investment projects are implemented, which provide it with additional jobs.

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145853073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: From university excursions to working with neural networks: how initiatives of users of the City of Ideas platform help schoolchildren

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    In August 2023, city residents took part in the project “Moscow is a city of discoveries”. It was held on the “City of Ideas” platform and was dedicated to the development of educational tourism for schoolchildren. Muscovites proposed ideas for holding events for students, improving innovative platforms, choosing a corporate character, a project slogan, and many others. After expert selection and user voting, 61 initiatives were selected, 17 of which have already been implemented.

    Educational trips, master classes and educational quests

    Thanks to one of the ideas, schoolchildren from different regions have already visited famous educational institutions. Among them are the National Research University Higher School of Economics, the Russian National Research Medical University named after N.I. Pirogov and the Russian State Social University. The children saw how the educational process is organized, talked to teachers and students, learned about modern teaching methods and research.

    In addition, in the spring and summer, schoolchildren took part in interactive quests about the secrets of the capital “Play Moscow”. They completed exciting tasks, traveling along seven educational routes dedicated to history, architecture, science and other topics. The children solved puzzles and collected information, and at the end they received a reward – a sticker with the symbols of the capital or a toy figurine.

    Master classes on the topic are held for schoolchildren “Creative Industries”together with Moscow technology parks and the Soyuzmultfilm film studio. Among them are classes on the basics of graphic design, an introduction to Python programming, and training in the basics of working with artificial intelligence. This allows students to develop creative abilities and master new skills.

    Visiting technology parks and creating a corporate character

    The city will continue to implement Muscovites’ initiatives. Thus, schoolchildren who dream of connecting their destiny with medicine will be able to visit the ambulance station. Children who are keen on modern trends will be offered to go to the museum of technology of a famous IT corporation. There they will see how the model range of computers, accessories and peripherals has changed over several decades, and will track all stages of innovation and development of digital technologies.

    The participants of the project on the City of Ideas platform came up with a name for a branded virtual character that will appear at the end of this year. In addition, the slogans they created are already heard at industry exhibitions and forums. For example, at the All-Russian Forum of Class Teachers held in October, representatives of the Moscow City Tourism Committee used the slogan “City of Discoveries — Your Compass in the World of Knowledge” in their speeches. And “Travel, Learn, Get Inspired!” was the slogan of the Moscow International Education Fair held in April.

    Platform “City of Ideas” has been operating since 2014. More than 540 thousand users have joined it. They share suggestions on how to make life in the capital even more comfortable. More than seven thousand ideas have already been implemented. City residents participated in projects dedicated to electronic services, culture, entrepreneurship, healthcare, education, transport and other topics.

    The project is being developed Department of Information Technology of the City of Moscow and the State Institution “New Management Technologies”. The use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence to improve the quality of life of city residents corresponds to the objectives of the national program “Digital Economy of the Russian Federation” and the regional project of the capital “Digital Public Administration”.

    The educational and tourist project “City of Discoveries” is Moscow’s flagship in the field of children’s tourism, which appeared in 2020. Over the past four years, more than 10 thousand schoolchildren from all over Russia have become its participants. They visited the offices of Moscow IT companies, leading universities, technology parks, and explored Moscow’s attractions. More than 100 sites have already become partners of the project. The “City of Discoveries” project operates within the framework of the national project “Education”. More information about this and other national projects implemented in Moscow, You can find out here.

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145881073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Administrator Samantha Power Meets with Executive Chairman of the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change Tony Blair

    Source: USAID

    The below is attributable to Spokesperson Benjamin Suarato:‎

    Today, Administrator Samantha Power met with former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Tony Blair to discuss cooperation between USAID and the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI). Administrator Power and former Prime Minister Blair discussed TBI’s longstanding partnership with Power Africa and progress on rural electrification and other shared priorities aimed at improving access to affordable and reliable electricity in sub-Saharan Africa.

    Administrator Power and former Prime Minister Blair also discussed humanitarian efforts to meet the ongoing and urgent needs in the Middle East, initiatives for advancing digital development, and opportunities to support countries experiencing democratic openings, including Guatemala.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Acting Deputy Administrator Michele Sumilas During the World Bank Annual Meetings

    Source: USAID

    The below is attributable to Deputy Spokesperson Shejal Pulivarti:‎

    From October 23 through 25, Acting Deputy Administrator Michele Sumilas participated in various engagements during the World Bank Annual Meetings. Throughout the week, she engaged USAID’s partners on shared priorities, including boosting food security and climate action, as well as collaborating on humanitarian assistance.

    On Wednesday, Acting Deputy Administrator Sumilas represented USAID at a signing ceremony, where Secretary of the Treasury Janet L. Yellen and Ukrainian Minister of Finance Sergii Marchenko marked the intention of the United States to join G7 efforts to make lending available to Ukraine, and provide a $20 billion U.S. loan to Ukraine that will be repaid by proceeds derived from Russia’s frozen assets. 

    Acting Deputy Administrator Sumilas then participated in a roundtable hosted by the Coalition on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), which featured Ministers from Angola, Bhutan, Chad, Comoros, India, Nigeria, and Madagascar. The roundtable provided an opportunity for participants to discuss how the Coalition can be responsive to infrastructure needs in Africa. 

    On Thursday, Acting Deputy Administrator Sumilas met with Denmark’s State Secretary for Development Policy Lotte Machon to discuss cooperation on food security, climate action, advancing democracy, and joint efforts on humanitarian assistance in Gaza and Ukraine. 

    The Acting Deputy Administrator also participated in a fireside chat, along with Norway’s Minister of International Development Anne Beathe Tvinnereim and Investisseurs & Partenaires (I&P’s) Jean-Michel Severino, Chair of the Supervisory Board, at the Financing for Agricultural Small-and-Medium Enterprises in Africa (FASA) Fund Launch, hosted by the Embassy of Norway. USAID and Norway announced that the United Kingdom and Republic of Korea have joined USAID as partners in the FASA Fund, which will help unlock additional commercial capital. In addition, Norway and USAID announced that Investisseurs and Partenaires (I&P) – a pioneering impact investment group dedicated to financing and supporting African entrepreneurs while strengthening entrepreneurial ecosystems across the African continent – was competitively selected as the FASA fund manager. 

    On Friday, Acting Deputy Administrator Sumilas met with the United Kingdom’s Second Permanent Under-Secretary Nick Dyer to discuss U.S.-UK shared priorities. She also met Brazil’s Ambassador to the United States Maria Luiza Viotti to discuss key development priorities of Brazil’s G20 presidency, including the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty to include recognition of Brazil’s support for their role in Multi-National Security Support Missions in Haiti, and continued efforts to aid Venezuelan migrants and refugees in Brazil. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Voters lacked a genuine choice in Uzbekistan’s technically well-prepared parliamentary elections

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: Voters lacked a genuine choice in Uzbekistan’s technically well-prepared parliamentary elections

    TASHKENT, 28 October 2024 – Uzbekistan’s 27 October parliamentary elections took place amid ongoing reforms, including amendments to the Constitution, but the political environment remained constrained, not providing voters with a genuine choice, international observers said in a preliminary statement released today. Despite the ongoing reforms, fundamental freedoms remain disproportionally limited both by legislation and in practice, the statement says.
    “These elections were held under a new mixed electoral system, reflecting significant constitutional amendments and a revised electoral code as part of Uzbekistan’s ongoing reform efforts,” said Mr. Azay Guliyev, Special Co-ordinator and leader of the OSCE short-term observers. “While these reforms represent progress in enhancing human rights provisions, significant challenges remain in the realization of fundamental freedoms, particularly the rights to association, peaceful assembly and freedom of expression.”
    While the election-related laws have gradually evolved and the elections were technically well-prepared, significant challenges in meeting international standards persist in such areas as political party registration, the right to stand, campaign finance transparency, citizen observation, and the publication of polling station results. 
    All five registered political parties were able to campaign freely and with legally enforced equal conditions, but their campaigns were low-key and devoid of real challenges to the policies of the ruling party or to each other. Media coverage was limited by restrictions on free expression, resulting in minimal access for voters to diverse viewpoints. Positively, women were well represented among candidates and in election administration.
    “In a landscape where the five registered parties share a common support for government policies, voters were not presented with genuine alternatives. This further highlights a need to foster a more dynamic and competitive political environment to truly represent citizens’ voices,” said Sargis Khandanyan, Head of the OSCE PA delegation. “At the same time, the increased gender quota for parliamentary candidates marks a positive development. We are hopeful that this will further boost women’s participation in public and political life in line with OSCE commitments.”
    The changes to election-related laws include a revised electoral system, new party list registration rules, modified rules on election management bodies, and an increased gender quota, but the relatively short timeframe for implementing these changes raised questions about compliance with international good practices.
    The country’s media-related laws contain broad and insufficiently defined provisions, including on religious extremism, disturbances of public order and false information and, as such, do not provide legal clarity and unduly restrict the right to freedom of expression. Defamation and insult remain criminalized, while imprisonment is still foreseen for public slander and insulting the president. In addition, undue external interference on media editorial freedom and a limited advertising market stifle open discussion and independent journalism, and result in reported widespread self-censorship. State-owned broadcast and print media provided free airtime and space for contestants in line with the law. Private television channels organized election debates, but provided only limited news coverage and virtually no analysis of the campaign.
    Election preparations at all levels were administered efficiently, and the Central Election Commission held regular live-streamed sessions and swiftly published its decisions, contributing to transparency. Despite previous ODIHR recommendations, the independence of lower-level election commissions remained negatively affected by the prominent role of Mahallas, which are local self-governing bodies  closely aligned with state and local administration in various aspects of the electoral process.
    Election day was calm and orderly, but marred by numerous cases of identified violations and malfeasance, as well as procedural and technical problems. Important safeguards were repeatedly disregarded during voting, counting and tabulation, challenging the integrity of the process and undermining transparency.
    “Uzbekistan’s authorities have partially addressed some prior ODIHR recommendations through recent legislative changes,” said Douglas Wake, Head of the Election Observation Mission from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights. “Nevertheless, given the problems that our observers identified in yesterday’s voting, counting and tabulation, much more must be done to enhance transparency and confidence in the officially announced turnout and results. ODIHR looks forward to further co-operation with Uzbekistan’s authorities, including on the recommendations that will come in our final report.”
    A total of 875 candidates were registered from the five registered political parties. The laws retain burdensome requirements for party registration, as well as broad legal grounds for denying registration and the suspension of party activities. The legal framework also does not allow for independent candidates, thus limiting pluralism and political competition.
    For these elections, the gender quota for women was increased from 30 to 40 per cent.  Women hold 47 of the 150 seats in the outgoing Legislative Chamber and comprised 45 per cent of candidates. Furthermore, the Speaker of the Senate, one of seven Deputy Speakers of the Legislative Chamber, and one of four Deputy Prime Ministers are women. Despite ongoing efforts to increase women’s participation in public and political life, however, women remain underrepresented in decision-making positions. Only two out of 27 ministers and three out of 12 members of the Supreme Judicial Council are women. All regional governors (Hokims) are men.
    The regulations for campaign finance lack clarity and do not facilitate transparency, not providing for effective oversight and public scrutiny. Funding for campaign purposes is allocated exclusively from the state budget, and only to registered political parties with an approved list of candidates.
    International organizations, political parties, Mahallas and accredited media are entitled to observe elections. The CEC registered 851 international observers. Despite previous ODIHR recommendations, the legislation does not contain provisions for citizen election observers.
    For further information, contact:
    Thomas Rymer, press adviser, ODIHR election observation mission, thomas.rymer@odihr-uzbekistan.org
    Anzhelika Ivanishcheva, media officer, OSCE PA, anzhelika.ivanishcheva@oscepa.dk

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Mastering Document Verification with Reference Data: Key Insights from Regula’s Talk at INTERDOCPOL Congress

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RESTON, Va., Oct. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — At the 3rd International Congress of INTERDOCPOL, Regula’s identity verification expert Inga Voronko spotlighted a breakthrough for document verification: the power of precise and comprehensive reference data. This often-overlooked resource, she explained, is key to enhancing verification accuracy and combating fraud in today’s digital-first world.

    The congress, organized by INTERDOCPOL, a non-profit association working to improve security protocols and practices, provides a platform for law-enforcement professionals and forensic experts from all over the world to collaborate on fighting document fraud. This year’s event, held on October 23 and 24, 2024 in Les Franqueses del Vallès, Spain and themed “Document Fraud: New Points of View,” brought together all-women experts from state and private organizations to share knowledge of the most effective methods of detecting forged and tampered IDs.

    Inga Voronko showcased how using a comprehensive and detailed reference system can enhance the accuracy and efficiency of document verification.

    Image: At the INTERDOCPOL International Congress, Regula’s expert highlighted the importance of using comprehensive reference data in document verification.

    While skilled professionals and advanced technology are essential, reference data also contributes a lot to the quality of identity verification. Accurate verification requires understanding exactly which security features a genuine document should have, where those features are located, how they should look, and what unique properties they possess. With thousands of different identity documents in circulation across the globe, no expert can memorize all the features of every document. This is where reference data becomes crucial.

    With over 30 years of experience in identity verification and forensic research, Regula has created one of the most advanced Information Reference Systems. It contains over 337,000 images of more than 12,000 unique identity documents from 225 states and international organizations, providing vital data for detecting fraudulent documents. In fact, it is the first reference system that covers IDs from every country and territory in the world.

    The images in Regula’s Information Reference System are captured in laboratory conditions, using forensic devices that ensure high optical resolution. This highlights the smallest nuances in security features, such as holograms, watermarks, and specific printing techniques, all of which are essential for verifying document authenticity.

    Moreover, images are captured under various light sources—such as white, infrared, and different wavelengths of ultraviolet lighting—so that verifiers can inspect documents across different spectrums and detect hidden or altered features that may not be visible to the naked eye.

    Today, it’s not enough to simply rely on what you see. Document forgery has become so sophisticated that to be able to detect it, experts need more than technologies: they need a reliable source of reference data, which is constantly updated to be as comprehensive as possible. That is what Regula has been working at for more than 30 years, accumulating deep knowledge and creating the largest digital collection in the world, containing all sorts of documents.

    About Regula

    Regula is a global developer of forensic devices and identity verification solutions. With our 30+ years of experience in forensic research and the largest library of document templates in the world, we create breakthrough technologies in document and biometric verification. Our hardware and software solutions allow over 1,000 organizations and 80 border control authorities globally to provide top-notch client service without compromising safety, security or speed. Regula was repeatedly named a Representative Vendor in the Gartner® Market Guide for Identity Verification.

    Learn more at www.regulaforensics.com.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/eda18c0c-ced9-45de-a8e9-e901db370477

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: International Petroleum Corporation Announces Results of Normal Course Issuer Bid

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    International Petroleum Corporation (IPC or the Corporation) (TSX, Nasdaq Stockholm: IPCO) is pleased to announce that IPC repurchased a total of 111,400 IPC common shares (ISIN: CA46016U1084) during the period of October 21 to 25, 2024 under IPC’s normal course issuer bid / share repurchase program (NCIB).

    IPC’s NCIB, announced on December 1, 2023, is being implemented in accordance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 (MAR) and Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) No 2016/1052 (Safe Harbour Regulation) and the applicable rules and policies of the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) and Nasdaq Stockholm and applicable Canadian and Swedish securities laws.

    During the period of October 21 to 25, 2024, IPC repurchased a total of 87,500 IPC common shares on Nasdaq Stockholm. All of these share repurchases were carried out by Pareto Securities AB on behalf of IPC.

    For more information regarding transactions under the NCIB in Sweden, including aggregated volume, weighted average price per share and total transaction value for each trading day during the period of October 21 to 25, 2024, see the following link to Nasdaq Stockholm’s website:

    www.nasdaqomx.com/transactions/markets/nordic/corporate-actions/stockholm/repurchases-of-own-shares

    A detailed breakdown of the transactions conducted on Nasdaq Stockholm during the period of October 21 to 25, 2024 according to article 5.3 of MAR and article 2.3 of the Safe Harbour Regulation is available with this press release on IPC’s website: www.international-petroleum.com/news-and-media/press-releases.

    During the same period, IPC purchased a total of 23,900 IPC common shares on the TSX. All of these share repurchases were carried out by ATB Capital Markets Inc. on behalf of IPC.

    All common shares repurchased by IPC under the NCIB will be cancelled. As at October 25, 2024, the total number of issued and outstanding IPC common shares is 120,751,038 with voting rights and IPC holds 484,000 common shares in treasury.

    Since December 5, 2023 up to and including October 25, 2024, a total of 7,957,782 IPC common shares have been repurchased under the NCIB through the facilities of the TSX and Nasdaq Stockholm. A maximum of 8,342,119 IPC common shares may be repurchased over the period of twelve months commencing December 5, 2023 and ending December 4, 2024, or until such earlier date as the NCIB is completed or terminated by IPC.

    International Petroleum Corp. (IPC) is an international oil and gas exploration and production company with a high quality portfolio of assets located in Canada, Malaysia and France, providing a solid foundation for organic and inorganic growth. IPC is a member of the Lundin Group of Companies. IPC is incorporated in Canada and IPC’s shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) and the Nasdaq Stockholm exchange under the symbol “IPCO”.

    For further information, please contact:

    Rebecca Gordon
    SVP Corporate Planning and Investor Relations
    rebecca.gordon@international-petroleum.com
    Tel: +41 22 595 10 50    		  

    Or

    		 Robert Eriksson
    Media Manager
    reriksson@rive6.ch
    Tel: +46 701 11 26 15

    This information is information that International Petroleum Corporation is required to make public pursuant to the Swedish Financial Instruments Trading Act. The information was submitted for publication, through the contact persons set out above, at 12:15 CET on October 28, 2024.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains statements and information which constitute “forward-looking statements” or “forward-looking information” (within the meaning of applicable securities legislation). Such statements and information (together, “forward-looking statements”) relate to future events, including the Corporation’s future performance, business prospects or opportunities. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release, unless otherwise indicated. IPC does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable laws.

    All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, forecasts, guidance, budgets, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as “seek”, “anticipate”, “plan”, “continue”, “estimate”, “expect”, “may”, “will”, “project”, “forecast”, “predict”, “potential”, “targeting”, “intend”, “could”, “might”, “should”, “believe”, “budget” and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be “forward-looking statements”. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: the ability and willingness of IPC to continue the NCIB, including the number of common shares to be acquired and cancelled and the timing of such purchases and cancellations; and the return of value to IPC’s shareholders as a result of any common share repurchases.

    The forward-looking statements are based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by IPC, including expectations and assumptions concerning: prevailing commodity prices and currency exchange rates; applicable royalty rates and tax laws; interest rates; future well production rates and reserve and contingent resource volumes; operating costs; our ability to maintain our existing credit ratings; our ability to achieve our performance targets; the timing of receipt of regulatory approvals; the performance of existing wells; the success obtained in drilling new wells; anticipated timing and results of capital expenditures; the sufficiency of budgeted capital expenditures in carrying out planned activities; the timing, location and extent of future drilling operations; the successful completion of acquisitions and dispositions and that we will be able to implement our standards, controls, procedures and policies in respect of any acquisitions and realize the expected synergies on the anticipated timeline or at all; the benefits of acquisitions; the state of the economy and the exploration and production business in the jurisdictions in which IPC operates and globally; the availability and cost of financing, labour and services; our intention to complete share repurchases under our normal course issuer bid program, including the funding of such share repurchases, existing and future market conditions, including with respect to the price of our common shares, and compliance with respect to applicable limitations under securities laws and regulations and stock exchange policies; and the ability to market crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids successfully.

    Although IPC believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements because IPC can give no assurances that they will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. These include, but are not limited to: general global economic, market and business conditions; the risks associated with the oil and gas industry in general such as operational risks in development, exploration and production; delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures; the uncertainty of estimates and projections relating to reserves, resources, production, revenues, costs and expenses; health, safety and environmental risks; commodity price fluctuations; interest rate and exchange rate fluctuations; marketing and transportation; loss of markets; environmental and climate-related risks; competition; innovation and cybersecurity risks related to our systems, including our costs of addressing or mitigating such risks; the ability to attract, engage and retain skilled employees; incorrect assessment of the value of acquisitions; failure to complete or realize the anticipated benefits of acquisitions or dispositions; the ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources; failure to obtain required regulatory and other approvals; geopolitical conflicts, including the war between Ukraine and Russia and the conflict in the Middle East, and their potential impact on, among other things, global market conditions; and changes in legislation, including but not limited to tax laws, royalties and environmental regulations. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive.

    Additional information on these and other factors that could affect IPC, or its operations or financial results, are included in IPC’s annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2023 (See “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information”, “Risks Factors” and “Reserves and Resources Advisory” therein), in the management’s discussion and analysis (MD&A) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 (See “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information”, “Risks Factors” and “Reserves and Resources Advisory” therein) and other reports on file with applicable securities regulatory authorities, including previous financial reports, management’s discussion and analysis and material change reports, which may be accessed through the SEDAR+ website (www.sedarplus.ca) or IPC’s website (www.international-petroleum.com).

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Five-year plan commits to Sheffield being a proud dementia-friendly city Sheffield has a new citywide dementia plan to provide people with dementia and their families with the right support and care. 28 October 2024

    Source: City of Sheffield

    Sheffield’s skyline

    Sheffield has a new citywide dementia plan to provide people with dementia and their families with the right support and care.

    The Council, key partners across the city, people living with dementia and their families have all worked together to inform the plan, which aims for Sheffield to become a proud dementia-friendly city.

    It will be discussed next week by members of the Adult Health and Social Care Policy Committee who will be asked to approve the plan, which will run from 2025-2030.

    Councillor Angela Argenzio, Chair of Adult Health and Social Care Policy Committee at Sheffield City Council, said: “Our vision is to make sure people with dementia are supported by being in the right environment, with the right support around them. At committee today, the Council and its key partner organisations signed up to a five-year plan, designed as a result of research and conversations with providers and people and families with lived experience of dementia. It focuses on what they have said is important to them.

    Nine commitments make up the plan:

    • Sheffield will become a Dementia friendly city
    • More will be done to prevent, reduce, and delay, the risk of developing dementia
    • Improved access to dementia diagnosis at the earliest possible stage for the people of Sheffield.
    • Support will be personalised, local and accessible, to help people with dementia to remain independent for as long as possible
    • High quality support to families and carers of people living with dementia in Sheffield will be provided
    • People living with dementia and their carers will receive care and support that recognises and works with them as individuals
    • Families and staff will be supported to plan ahead to reduce the likelihood of dementia related crisis
    • Improved care for people with dementia attending hospital
    • Personalised, good quality palliative and end of life care when needed

    Councillor Angela Argenzio added: “We’re driving this work forward with the NHS South Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, all of our partners from both the statutory, voluntary sector and working with communities because we need to be better at supporting the diverse needs of this group of people.

    “In Sheffield, we know that our success will be because we have adopted a multi-agency approach in supporting people across the city. It’s the working together that will be key. Supporting people with dementia and their families and those who work with dementia effectively will only be possible by having a focus on doing the things that we know have been agreed as a result of what people living with dementia have told us is important. Working in partnership is key to us all making progress together.

    “One of the biggest highlights from the results showed how difficult lives can become for those living with dementia if there isn’t consistency. Consistency makes a world of difference. Our job is to make sure they are fully supported, and we want to achieve this through these commitments.”

    Grace Stead from ‘Enrichment for the Elderly’ delivers Dementia Stars training in the city funded by Sheffield City Council through Dementia Advice Sheffield. This training helps professionals and volunteers understand dementia better and the training is designed to meet the diverse needs of Sheffield’s communities.

    Grace said: “When supporting my nan with dementia people just didn’t understand how best to support her. The negative impact on her, me and those around her was huge. These dementia commitments will help us to put people with dementia at the centre of what we do, working together to support the person with dementia and the people around them with better understanding at the heart of it.” 

    People in the city who have done Dementia Stars training speak highly of the difference it has made to them: 

    “I wish I would have had this training years ago; it would have helped me support my mum better who had dementia, but it will now support my practice.”

    “This has been the best learning experience I have ever had! Inspiring, it makes you want to make a difference to people’s lives.”

    More information about dementia training is available here: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/sheffield/our-services/dementia-services-professionals/das-training/

    It’s estimated that there are over 6,000 and up to around 7,300 people aged over 65 currently living with dementia in Sheffield, which is between 6.7% and 7.7% of the 94,840 people aged 65 years and over in the city. Approximately 140 people under 65 in Sheffield live with young onset dementia. Dementia support and awareness in Sheffield has increased over the last 5 years, however, the growing impact of an aging population on dementia prevalence means the number of people living with dementia is predicted to keep increasing.

    The Council is committed to helping to prevent and reduce the risk of developing dementia right across a person’s life through the many programmes for which it holds responsibility to deliver. There are ways that some types of dementia can be prevented, or the risk of dementia reduced. Dementia risk includes factors starting at early years and education; and includes environmental factors such as exposure to air pollution. 

    Some risk factors that can be changed to reduce the risk of dementia are similar to those recommended to people to keep their heart and circulation healthy such as increasing physical activity, reducing alcohol consumption, and reducing smoking. Social contact is really important for everyone, and this is the case for people at risk of developing dementia or who already have dementia. Research has also found that using aids for hearing and visual problems can also reduce the risk.

    Sheffield Dementia Action Alliance (SDAA) is a network of organisations who want to help communities, organisations and businesses do more for people affected by dementia: reducing stigma, increasing understanding, and making small but significant changes to buildings and environments to make them more accessible for people with dementia. Over the past 5 years SDAA has recruited and supported over 80 members who have made over 200 pledges to make their organisations more dementia friendly. This has included community centres, train operators, places of worship, theatres, libraries, charity shops and pubs.

    Work on the strategy and what it aims to achieve will be formally launched on the morning of Wednesday 27th November at an event for people with dementia and their families, providers, and partners. Taking place at Niagara Conference and Leisure Centre, Niagara Road, Sheffield, S6 1LU, resources, advice, information and more on the city’s dementia plan will be available.

    There are limited spaces so early booking is advised at Dementia Strategy Launch Event Tickets, Wed, Nov 27, 2024 at 9:30 AM | Eventbrite

    The new citywide Dementia Strategy 2025- 20230is here and there is a range of resources and information on www.sheffielddirectory.org.uk

    More information about risk and prevention is here: Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2024 report of the Lancet standing Commission – The Lancet

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Unregistered boats on River Thames: fines and costs total £18,000

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Clear warning to unregistered boat owners on the Thames as owners failed to register their boats despite warnings. More to face court in coming months

    Lindum, owned by Battersea boater Drystan Brod

    Staines magistrates’ court had a busy day on 22 October as 14 owners were sentenced to pay more than £18,000 for failing to register their boats for use on the River Thames.

    Environment Agency enforcement officers discovered these vessels during spot checks in December 2023 at Penton Hook Marina in Surrey. The inspection showed unacceptably high levels of registration evasion with a quarter of the boats in the marina, around 125 vessels, failing to have been registered. Every boat-owner was traced and given ample warning and opportunity to register their boats correctly.

    The court was told that all owners had skipped the annual registration fee, determined by the length and width of the boat. A couple of them had skipped it twice. Duncan Heyward and Tony Davies, both of Chertsey, were found guilty of owning two unregistered vessels and had to pay compensation accordingly.

    The highest charges were issued to Drystan Brod of Battersea for his boat, Lindum – more than £2300 including costs, fines, compensation and victim surcharge. Full details of all fines below.

    Colin Chiverton, environment manager for Surrey at the Environment Agency, said:

    This was a great day for the majority of Thames boat-owners who register their vessel with us every year. Just like us, they’re fed up with seeing this unlawful behaviour take place on the river every year. We’re pleased with this outcome, and it sends a clear warning to all unregistered boat owners – it’s just not worth the risk.

    At the end of November, we have another day in court with a further 14 owners facing the music. So, if you have an unregistered boat on the Thames, you should know that our enforcement teams are still out in October, patrolling the river and checking for valid registrations.

    Renewal invitation letters for 2025 registrations on the River Thames are to be sent in November to everyone that registered their boat this year and owners are encouraged to register early to ensure their boats are compliant by 1 January, when the new season starts. The Environment Agency’s approach to non-registration on the Thames has changed – boat-owners are given ample opportunity to register their boat. However, once a summons has been issued, it won’t stop court proceedings, even if the boat owner subsequently pays their registration fee.

    Similar to excise duty for road vehicles, boat registration fees allow the Environment Agency to manage and maintain more than 600 miles of inland waterways across England, keeping them open and safe for thousands of boaters to enjoy.

    Background:

    Owners of powered or non-powered boats, including paddleboards, must register their boats annually with the Environment Agency for use on the non-tidal River Thames.

    Boat registration on the Thames starts on 1 January every year. Any boats found on the water after that date, without having registered, may be liable to a fine.

    In mid-September 2024 during a river wide census, Environment Agency officers recorded the locations of 10,890 boats on the river.

    Boats can be registered by calling 03708 506 506 or going to River Thames: boat registration and application forms – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

    Offender/age/address/boat[s]/pleas/compensation order/costs/victim surcharge/fine

    Des Higgins, 64, of Graham Court, Northolt, Middlesex, PRINCESS BURFORD. Pleaded not guilty then changed plea at court to guilty. £803.60. £250. £80. £120.

    Stephen Hale, 54, of Bridge Court, Chertsey, Surrey. LADY RUTH. Found guilty in absence. £994.14. £275. £88. £220.

    Drystan Brod, 50, of Birley Street, Battersea, London. LINDUM. Found guilty in absence. £1724.00. £275. £88. £220.

    Duncan Hayward, 40, of Hill Rise, Richmond, Surrey. MAVERICK III/TT MAVERICK III. Found guilty in absence – 2 offences. £1065.15/£23.20. £275/nil. £24/nil. £60/NSP

    Mark Geeson, 53, of Gaston Way, Shepperton, Middlesex. PORTIA. Found guilty in absence. £970.47. £275. £88. £220

    Tony Davies, 70, of St Annes Road, Chertsey, Surrey. BULTRUG/REDWATCH. Pleaded guilty at court – 2 offences. £923.13/£887.64. £250/nil. Nil/nil. No separate penalty/NSP.

    Andrew Graham, 53,  of Wellington Terrace, Basingstoke, Hampshire. BUSTAROON. Found guilty in absence. £757.44. £275. £88. £220.

    Hugo Handford, of Chichester Road, West Wittering, West Sussex. DAJA. Found guilty in absence. £331.00. £275. £88. £220.

    Tim Cartwright, 64, of Elder Road, Bisley, Surrey. CHARLIE BEN. Found guilty in absence. £678.44. £275. £88. £220.

    Brian Harvey, 60, of Queens Road, Hersham, Surrey. SEA DANCER. Found guilty in absence. £520.74. £275. £88. £220.

    Scott Cole, 52, of Grafton Road, Acton, London. ALKYON. Found guilty in absence. £284.04. £275. £88. £220.

    Lee Davis, 49, of Meadow View, Chertsey, Surrey. TUBS. Found guilty in absence. £473.40. £275. £88. £220.

    Maciej Firla-Cuchra, 49, of The Broadway, Laleham, Surrey. JEWNA. Found guilty in absence. £426.06. £275. £88. £220.

    David Harding, 73, of Easton, Wells, Somerset. Le BATEAU DE BOIS. Pleaded not guilty, then changed plea at court to guilty. £736.02. £275. Nil. NSP.

    Contact us:

    Journalists only: 0800 141 2743 or communications_se@environment-agency.gov.uk.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dinosaur Trail brings roar-some fun to city centre

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    Locals and visitors alike took part in a new dinosaur trail in the city centre throughout the October holidays. 

    The Iconic Bricks Dinosaur Trail was a two-week event from 12th to 27th October which saw 18 brick model dinosaurs placed in businesses across the city centre, with free car parking also available in two city centre car parks. 

    Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Christian Allard said: “It has been wonderful to see so many people taking part in the Iconic Bricks Dinosaur Trail and exploring our city centre. 

    “My grandchildren loved the trail, and I would like to extend my thanks to each business who took part and helped create a fun and exciting atmosphere across the city centre.”

    Education and Children’s Services Convener Councillor Martin Greig said: “This has been a great way for all ages to visit the city centre and take part in a fun new event. 

    “Dinosaurs are always a popular attraction for children and adults alike and has helped capture imaginations.” 

    Visitors taking part in the trail were able to get an insight into how each model was made and learn more about the creations, including how many bricks were used to build the model and learn a fun dinosaur fact. 

    Monica and her family from Aberdeen said: “This has been lovely for the children and a great free activity to do. We have enjoyed walking around the city doing the trail.” 

    Businesses taking part in the trail recorded seeing increased footfall, with the Maritime Museum having had its busiest week since 2019. 

    Kenny Bruce, Trinity Centre Aberdeen Manager, said: “Trinity Aberdeen was delighted to take part in the Ionic Bricks Dinosaur Trail this year, the event has brought increased visitors to the centre and seen our stores offer unique dinosaur discounts in Shot n Roll and Resting Brunch Face, even a special guest appearance from The Works mascot Rex the Dinosaur.

    “It’s fantastic to support an event that offers customers a chance to come and explore our city centre.”

    Lynne Clark, Communications Lead for Michies Pharmacy, said: “The Iconic Bricks Dinosaur Trail has been a roaring success for Michies! It has been a joy to see so many children and families through our doors, many of whom have never visited Michies before. It was a wonderful initiative to get people out and about having fun and exploring our city centre!”

    The Hidden Lego Minifigure Trail also ran throughout the October Holidays, which saw small Lego figures hidden across ten shop windows around the Upperkirkgate and Belmont Street area for people of all ages to find in a treasure-hunt style challenge. 

    Once each minifigure was found, there was the chance to enter into a prize draw to win an Aberdeen Gift Card worth £20. 

    Additional activities also took place throughout the October Holidays across businesses taking part in the trail, including storytelling and dinosaur-themed Bookbug. 

    The Iconic Bricks Dinosaur Trail received £30,000 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. 

    Free weekend parking is still available in the Denburn and Frederick Street car parks throughout October and the first weekend in November. Parking for £1 will be available after 5pm at Virginia Street, the Gallowgate, Frederick Street, Summer Street, Chapel Street, West North Street and the Denburn. Normal charging rates will resume from 8am.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: SUM will act as a partner of the International Forum “World Quality Day – 2024”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    From November 11 to 15, the International Forum “World Quality Day 2024” will be held, with the State University of Management as a partner.

    The International Forum “World Quality Day” will be held for the fifth time. The event is held as part of the Quality Week, dedicated to World Quality Day, which this year falls on November 14.

    The forum will be held in two formats – in-person and hybrid. Offline events are planned in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Ufa, Sochi. Everyone who registers on the forum website will be able to watch the online broadcast of the sessions, and later the recording.

    In 2023, 60 sessions were held as part of the business program. They were attended by 437 speakers from 16 countries. The broadcast of the business program was watched by over 3 million people from 65 countries.

    As in previous years, the business program will feature leading experts from various sectors of the economy, representatives of federal and regional authorities, businesses and public organizations. Participants will exchange experiences in improving quality standards, implementing innovative management methods and sustainable development practices, and discuss quality infrastructure and industry development vectors.

    Traditionally, the main event of the forum will be the plenary session “Development Horizons” with the participation of representatives of government bodies. The participation of the First Deputy Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation Denis Manturov, the Minister of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation Anton Alikhanov, the Minister of Health of the Russian Federation Mikhail Murashko, the State Secretary – Deputy Minister of Economic Development of the Russian Federation Alexey Khersontsev and others is expected. The experts will discuss key tasks and update the priorities that the state faces until the end of the decade and beyond.

    The business program will include sessions on business excellence, food safety, tourism, retail, HR, finance, business and much more. You can view the full program and register for events on the official forum website.

    Two sessions of the business program will be held at the State University of Management: – November 14, 12:00-13:30 – Session “New Horizons for the Development of the Labor Market in the Russian Federation”; – November 14, 14:00-15:30 – Session “Assessment of Management Quality: Approaches, Methods, Tools, Personnel”.

    The forum is held by the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Russia, the Ministry of Economic Development of Russia, Roskachestvo, Rosstandart and Rosaccreditation with the support of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Russian Federation and other organizations.

    The Forum partners are the Russian Society “Knowledge”, PAO Promsvyazbank (PSB), the State University of Management, Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, ROSBIOTECH, the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, RUDN University and other universities and organizations.

    Subscribe to the tg channel “Our State University” Announcement date: 10/28/2024

    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 Asia-Pac: Speech by CE at MTR 45th Anniversary Cocktail Reception (English only) (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the MTR 45th Anniversary Cocktail Reception today (October 28):

    Deputy Commissioner Fang Jianming (Deputy Commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region), Dr Rex Auyeung (Chairman of MTR Corporation), Dr Jacob Kam (Chief Executive Officer of MTR Corporation), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, 

         Good evening. It gives me great pleasure to join you today, in celebration of the 45th anniversary of the MTR Corporation. 

         Just look around our beautiful city, and you would know how this is a true milestone. Building a mass transit railway system in a city packed with people and skyscrapers, surrounding a deep harbour. And with towns scattered amid hilly countryside and mountainous terrain, alongside vast pieces of land dedicated as country parks and natural conservation areas. It is a remarkable feat. 

         And yet, here we are, 45 years later, proud to call the MTR one of the world’s top transit systems. One that delivers reliable, efficient and safe journeys for the people of Hong Kong, and beyond.

         According to last year’s Urban Mobility Readiness Index, Hong Kong’s public transport system tops the world, number one. That’s thanks to our extensive transport infrastructure, as well as a wide range of high-quality and affordable transport modes – with the MTR playing a major part.

         Earlier this year, two different international media outlets included Hong Kong among their rankings of the world’s best “metro” and “public transport” systems, respectively. One of them reported that “transit planners flock to Hong Kong from across the globe to discover how its Mass Transit Railway delivers world-class service and reliability to the territory’s 7.4 million citizens”. And another added that “92 per cent of Hongkongers praised their city’s transit system”. 

         That’s as reaffirming as it is encouraging, ladies and gentlemen – as I’m sure it is to everybody in the MTR Corporation, too. 

         Today, the MTR railway network handles the daily commutes and travelling of more than 5 million passenger trips in our city. It also connects us to our country, via the Hong Kong Section of the high-speed rail. That strengthens the people-to-people bonds, and business ties, between Hong Kong and a great many cities across the Mainland. 

         More than that, the MTR Corporation is now an international entity, with its service spanning across the Mainland, Australia, the United Kingdom and Sweden. Its network carries over 10 million passengers worldwide every weekday.

         And while we’re certainly not just getting going, not after 45 years, we’ve got a lot more in the works – plans built around “infrastructure-led” and “capacity-creating” principles, with railway forming the backbone of our public transport system.  

         Last year, the Government published the Hong Kong Major Transport Infrastructure Development Blueprint, which presents a planning framework for Hong Kong’s transport infrastructure future, designed to meet transport and logistics demand up to 2046 and beyond.

         That includes two railway projects to help drive the full potential of the Northern Metropolis, our new engine of economic development. The Hung Shui Kiu Station and the Northern Link Main Line will begin construction this year and next year for tentative completion in 2030 and 2034, respectively.  

         And, as I noted in my Policy Address two weeks ago, the MTR Corporation will begin detailed planning and design for the Northern Link Spur Line early next year. This vital, cross-boundary railway will connect San Tin Technopole and the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology (I&T) Park in the Loop, the area set to become an international I&T powerhouse – all the way to the new Huanggang Port in Shenzhen. That will certainly fast-track Hong Kong’s integration with the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

         The Government has been working closely with the MTR Corporation to take forward the planning and design of these projects. And we will continue to co-ordinate their construction and project commissioning.

         The Government is also committed to realising three smart and green mass transit systems – in East Kowloon, Kai Tak and the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area. We’re working to compress the implementation programmes, enabling the public to enjoy their social and economic benefits as quickly as possible.  

         And we’re pressing ahead, too, with the planning of the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Rail Link (Hung Shui Kiu-Qianhai).  

         Add it up, and it’s a hugely ambitious undertaking. On completion of our railway construction projects, our railway network is expected to increase from about 270 kilometres today, to nearly 390km. 

         The long-term profits and the long-term benefits are equally huge. They include the capacity to drive territory-wide developments, deepen cross-boundary integration, expand commuting options, improve traffic conditions, reduce journey time and realise long-term, far-reaching, socio-economic benefits for Hong Kong. For us all. 

         My congratulations, once again, to the MTR Corporation on your milestone 45th anniversary. My presence here is to reiterate once again how I personally feel proud of our MTR. I am sure each one of you shares this pride. I look forward to your continued success in the next 45 years, and more.   

         Thank you.         

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: GUU took part in a seminar on the implementation of the Presidential Program for the Training of Management Personnel

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On October 25, 2024, the head of the Presidential Program for the Training of Management Personnel for Organizations of the National Economy of the Russian Federation of the State University of Management, Vice-Rector Dmitry Bryukhanov took part in an interregional seminar on improving the implementation of the Presidential Program, organized by the Government of the Moscow Region and the Federal Resource Center of the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation.

    The participants of the seminar – employees of regional commissions and regional resource centers, representatives of educational organizations participating in the implementation of the Presidential Program, representatives of the Presidential Program graduate associations – discussed the main directions and possibilities for improving the implementation of the Presidential Program.

    Dmitry Bryukhanov gave a report in which he presented the experience of modernizing the Russian internship within the framework of the Presidential Program. The Russian internship is a mandatory element of the curriculum of the Presidential Program and is aimed at developing the management skills of students, exchanging experience, studying best practices in the field of organizational management, marketing, production organization, and project management.

    In 2024, the State University of Management modernized the Russian internship program, focusing on visits to enterprises and organizations, during which students master best practices and adopt management experience. Such a program promotes more effective application of acquired management skills and technologies in the implementation of individual project assignments of participants.

    The developed format of the program is in many ways similar to the foreign internships of graduates of the Presidential Program, which are aimed at establishing business contacts and partnerships, developing export-import relations between the business community of Russia and foreign countries.

    Let us recall that the State University of Management implements two Presidential programs of professional training: “Practice of Business Project Management” (type A) and “Organizational and Economic Foundations of Effective Functioning of the Production Complex” (type B). In addition, the State University of Management has been organizing foreign internships for the third year in a row, commissioned by the Federal Resource Center.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 10/28/2024

    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: Rector of the Polytechnic University Andrey Rudskoy gave an interview to the weekly newspaper Argumenty Nedeli

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    In the weekly newspaper Argumenty Nedeli and on the YouTube channel of the publication’s editor-in-chief Andrey Uglanov (1.11 million subscribers) interview came out with the rector of Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, chairman of the St. Petersburg branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences Andrey Rudskoy.

    In a conversation with the editor-in-chief of Argumenty Nedeli, Polytechnic graduate Academician Rudskoy comprehensively presented his alma mater and the largest engineering university in Russia, which turned 125 this year. Andrei Ivanovich told which outstanding people were the initiators of polytechnic education in the Russian Empire and what preceded the appearance of the Polytechnic Institute in its capital.

    Readers and viewers learned what the Polytechnic University graduates and employees are famous for, what contribution they made to the creation of weapons for victory in the Great Patriotic War, to the development of the atomic project, space exploration, the development of aviation, shipbuilding and other sectors of our country’s economy.

    Speaking about the tasks of today’s Polytechnic, Andrey Rudskoy paid attention to working with young people, applicants and students, spoke about the most popular specialties and how the university interacts with employers. He also expressed his opinion on the transition to new levels of higher education to replace the Bologna system.

    You can watch the full interview atYouTube channel of the editor-in-chief of the publication “Arguments of the Week” Andrey Uglanov.

    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: The conference with international participation, dedicated to the 90th anniversary of the Department of Geotechnics of SPbGASU, became a record-breaker in terms of the number of participants, content and depth of topics

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Presentation of the medal to Evgeny Rybnov (in the center). On the right – Askar Zhusupbekov

    The results of the national (all-Russian) scientific and technical conference with international participation “Modern methods of design, underground construction and reconstruction of foundations and bases” were summed up at SPbGASU. Let us recall that it brought together specialists from 23 cities and 13 countries. More than 110 reports were heard.

    “We tried to consider all aspects of geotechnics, raise problematic issues and discuss their possible solutions, and outline development vectors. For industry representatives, the conference became an open platform for exchanging experience with colleagues and interacting with the scientific community, and for students, it was a series of effective practical lectures. Of course, both in domestic and foreign geotechnics, there are still a huge number of unresolved issues, but Russian geotechnics confirms its high level and is ready to share experience and developments, as well as study international experience. The conference made it possible to do this,” said Rashid Mangushev, Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Architecture and Construction Sciences, Head of the Scientific School, Director of the Scientific and Production-Consulting Center for Geotechnology at St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering.

    One of the participants added that he had not been to a conference for a long time that covered the maximum number of geotechnical areas so comprehensively and deeply. The conference program included a tight schedule: nine sessions on twelve main geotechnical areas, technical excursions around St. Petersburg and Kronstadt, a visit to an exhibition dedicated to the anniversary of the geotechnical department, and time for business communication.

    The scale and effectiveness of the conference are impressive and inspire new research, emphasized Anatoly Osokin, Candidate of Technical Sciences and Head of the Department of Geotechnics at SPbGASU.

    “We identified the problems and demonstrated our readiness and ability to solve them. And, most importantly, we examined geotechnics in detail. The conference participants were replenished with a large number of young specialists and scientists. This indicates that geotechnics will develop as a science and a special branch of construction. We understand that today the development of megacities is often possible only through underground construction, so geotechnics remains a sought-after science in the modern world,” Anatoly Ivanovich summed up.

    For his contribution to the development of geotechnics, the rector of the university, Doctor of Economics, PhD in Engineering, Professor Evgeniy Rybnov was awarded the highest award of the Kazakhstan Geotechnical Association – the International Geotechnical Medal named after Academician Sh. M. Aitaliev; the scientific director of the geotechnical school of SPbGASU, Corresponding Member of RAASN, Doctor of Engineering Rashid Mangushev was awarded the medal of the Kazakhstan Geotechnical Association named after Academician T. Zh. The awards were presented by the president of the Kazakhstan Geotechnical Association, Doctor of Engineering, Professor, graduate of SPbGASU (LISI) Askar Zhusupbekov.

    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: Condor’s Workover Results Continue to Exceed Pre-Job Expectations

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, Oct. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Condor Energies Inc. (“Condor” or the “Company”) (TSX: CDR), a Canadian based energy transition company, is pleased to provide an operational update for its eight gas field production enhancement project in Uzbekistan.

    Two recently worked-over wells have returned to service and are providing 441 boepd of incremental production, after a combined 20 meters of previously unperforated reservoir pay was accessed. Prior to the workovers, the first well wasn’t producing and is now flowing 410 boepd based on a 24 hour production test. Although the second well is still recovering workover fluids, its incremental flow rate is already 31 boepd or a 65% increase, also based on a 24 hour test. As disclosed earlier this month, three prior workovers added a cumulative 330 boepd of incremental production.

    A second rig that was planned for delivery in early November has already begun workover activities on a well that is targeting up to 25 meters of previously unperforated reservoir. With over 100 wells in the eight fields, there is a large inventory of both producing and shut-in wells available for evaluation, recompletion and optimization opportunities to profitably grow production.

    The extensive geological evaluations performed, coupled with recent workover results, suggest that material untapped hydrocarbon potential exists within the carbonate formations of the Company’s 279 km2 license area. These carbonate platforms contain thick reservoir sections interbedded with laterally extensive evaporite layers, creating ideal conditions for hydrocarbon trapping. The reservoirs are analogous to carbonate formations in Canada’s Western Canada Sedimentary Basin (“WCSB”), such as the Charlie Lake and Midale, which continue to be successfully monetized. By leveraging this geological similarity, the Company is maturing the potential of horizontal and multi-lateral drilling, a proven method in Canada to enhance deliverability and maximize recovery from these reservoirs.

    Don Streu, President and CEO of Condor, commented: “We continue to be very pleased with the early results of our workover program and are excited to have a second service rig operating. The multiple successes of world-class developments in the WCSB showcases how carbonate reservoirs can deliver impressive production rates and recoveries. The geological characteristics in Uzbekistan – thick reservoirs interbedded with evaporites – are strikingly similar to those found in Western Canada, where decades of production have been economically sustained. By employing advanced horizontal and stacked drilling techniques, we could achieve even higher deliverability and maximize recovery from our Jurassic carbonate reservoirs, mirroring the positive Canadian analogue outcomes.”

    ABOUT CONDOR ENERGIES INC

    Condor Energies Inc is a TSX-listed energy transition company that is uniquely positioned on the doorstep of European and Asian markets with three distinct first-mover initiatives: increasing natural gas and condensate production from its existing fields in Uzbekistan; an ongoing project to construct and operate Central Asia’s first LNG facility in Kazakhstan; and a separate initiative to develop and produce lithium brine in Kazakhstan. Condor has already built a strong foundation for reserves, production and cashflow growth while also striving to minimize its environmental footprint.

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

    Certain statements in this news release constitute forward-looking statements under applicable securities legislation. Such statements are generally identifiable by the terminology used, such as “anticipate”, “appear”, “believe”, “intend”, “expect”, “plan”, “estimate”, “budget”, “outlook”, “scheduled”, “may”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would”, “in the process of” or other similar wording. Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, information concerning: the timing and ability to perforate up to 25 meters of previously unperforated reservoir; the timing and ability for material untapped hydrocarbon potential to exist within the carbonate formations of the Company’s license area; the timing and ability for carbonate platforms to contain thick reservoir sections interbedded with laterally extensive evaporite layers to create ideal conditions for hydrocarbon trapping; the timing and ability for the Company’s reservoirs to be analogous to carbonate formations in Canada’s Western Canada Sedimentary Basin; the timing and ability to mature the potential of horizontal and multi-lateral drilling to maximize recovery; the timing and ability to employ advanced horizontal and stacked drilling techniques; the timing and ability to drill new wells and the ability of the drilled wells to become producing wells; projections and timing with respect to production; the timing and ability to obtain future funding on favorable terms, if at all; the timing and ability to increase production by executing the planned drilling and workover programs; and the timing and ability to obtain various approvals and conduct the Company’s planned development activities.

    ABBREVIATIONS

    The following is a summary of abbreviations used in this news release:

    boe Barrels of oil equivalent*
    boepd Barrels of oil equivalent per day
    km2 Square kilometers
    Mscf  Thousand standard cubic feet of gas
       

    * Barrels of oil equivalent (“boe”) are derived by converting gas to oil in the ratio of six thousand standard cubic feet (“Mscf”) of gas to one barrel of oil based on an energy conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. Given the value ratio based on the current price of crude oil as compared to natural gas is significantly different from the energy equivalency of 6 Mscf to 1 barrel, utilizing a conversion ratio at 6 Mscf to 1 barrel may be misleading as an indication of value, particularly if used in isolation.

    The TSX does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

    For further information, please contact Don Streu, President and CEO or Sandy Quilty, Vice President of Finance and CFO at 403-201-9694.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: QuestionPro Appoints Chris Robson as Vice President, Managed Services

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — QuestionPro, a global leader in online survey and research services announces Chris Robson has joined the company in the newly created position of Vice President, Managed Services. Robson will create this new division which is focused on helping QuestionPro customers get the most out of its robust research platform.

    Well known as a research industry thought-leader, Robson is a mathematician by training who has worked at both large enterprises as well as startups. Immediately prior to joining QuestionPro, he was the Global Head of Data Science at Human8, a global brand consultancy where he developed new methodologies including the application of Generative AI and LLMs. Earlier in his career he managed advanced research teams and large software teams (70+ people) at HP.

    He was also Chief Innovation Officer and Global Head of Research Science at ORC, where he led a team of analysts and statisticians to embrace and adopt new approaches for data-centered insights. Robson also co-founded and ran two successful research analytics agencies: Parametric Marketing and Deckchair Data. He holds a Bachelor of Science with Honors in Mathematics from the Brunel University of London.

    Robson will have overall responsibility for establishing and growing QuestionPro’s Managed Services Group which provides services to clients who need assistance to go above and beyond the capabilities of the company’s existing suite of research platforms. This can include project management, study design, custom programming, reporting and analytics. Whether it is providing end-to-end project support, simply customizing the appearance of a single question or running advanced analytic methods the group ensures that clients can get the answers they need for their business decisions.

    In particular, Robson will apply his deep expertise in Artificial Intelligence (AI) to not only integrate AI across the QuestionPro platform, but also leverage it for new ways to drive consumer insights through emerging techniques like synthetic data.

    “I’ve known and worked with Chris for close to 20 years,” said Vivek Bhaskaran, founder and CEO of QuestionPro. “In fact, he helped build some of our early features like MaxDiff and others. It’s great to have him on board full time to launch a new division and also ensure our customers benefit from the application of AI across our platform.”

    About QuestionPro:
    Founded in 2006, QuestionPro is a global provider of online survey and research services that help companies make better decisions through data. Our fully integrated online platform includes surveys, research & insights, customer experience (CX) and workforce/employee experience software. We additionally offer polling, journey mapping, employee 360s and data visualization. Our clientele ranges from small businesses to Fortune 100 companies, who rely on us for insights about customers, employees, and the marketplace. With offices in the US, Canada, Mexico, U.K., Germany, Japan, Australia, the United Arab Emirates and India, we offer customers 24-7 access to highly trained support specialists and engineers. More information is available at www.questionpro.com.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c9035859-cb80-41e3-be32-21eab55be2d3

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Viewpointsystem Joins the AR Alliance for Augmented Reality Wearable Devices

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PISCATAWAY, N.J., Oct. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The AR Alliance announces that Viewpointsystem, a leader in the development of advanced eye tracking and gaze tracking solutions, including eye-tracking-based smart glasses, has joined the alliance as an associate member.

    The AR Alliance provides a supportive and neutral environment for organizations of all sizes to take an active role in advancing and strengthening the augmented reality hardware development ecosystem. Diverse organizations across the expanding, global AR ecosystem work together through the AR Alliance to speed innovation of breakthrough technologies and processes for building AR wearables and devices that create a meaningful and positive experience for users.

    “We are building AR together,” said Dr. Bharath Rajagopalan, Chair, AR Alliance, and Director of Strategic Marketing, STMicroelectronics. “The promise of AR and its potential market are so vast that there is ample room for all our member companies to succeed together. The AR Alliance is the place where concrete work takes place to harmonize approaches for advancing, unifying, and growing the global AR supply chain and accelerating innovation. We are excited for Viewpointsystem to join us in this important work and bring their technology leadership in eye tracking to help enable the AR market.”

    “Eye tracking is one of the most promising technologies to unlock the full potential of AR,” explained Nils Berger, CEO and Founder of Viewpointsystem. “It already enhances AR experiences with intuitive controls, like selecting objects with your eyes. But its potential goes far beyond that, enabling the detection of cognitive load and emotional states, allowing devices to respond seamlessly to users’ needs. At Viewpointsystem, we’ve moved eye tracking from the lab to real-world applications, showing its readiness for future mass-market AR devices.”

    About the AR Alliance
    The AR Alliance Founding Board Members are represented by STMicroelectronics, META, Essilor Luxottica, Corning, Dispelix, Optofidelity, MICROOLED, Google, and Qualcomm.

    Organizations of every size and at any spot in the ecosystem are respected, heard, and advocated for via the AR Alliance’s non-competitive environment. Flexible membership levels allow companies of varying strategies, maturity, and resources to engage.

    To learn more about membership in the AR Alliance, please visit www.thearalliance.org.

    About Viewpointsystem
    Viewpointsystem, an innovative deep-tech company based in Vienna, Austria, is at the forefront of integrating eye tracking into industrial and commercial applications. Specializing in enhancing operational efficiency, the company develops internationally award-winning smart glasses used by enterprise customers worldwide.

    Their technology is particularly valuable in areas like manufacturing, maintenance, and training, where it aids in real-time guidance and decision-making. With experience from over 200 use cases across five verticals, Viewpointsystem helps businesses streamline processes, reduce errors, and improve overall productivity.

    Viewpointsystem’s integration technology, Digital Iris Inside, sets a new industry benchmark by providing proven, best-in-class eye tracking and human insight technology ready for integration into external devices. Viewpointsystem continues to lead the way in evolving the technology from mere eye tracking to comprehensive perception and emotional analysis in human-machine interaction​.

    MEDIA CONTACTS

    Areeb Lakhani
    Program Manager – The AR Alliance
    Areeb.Lakhani@ieee-isto.org

    Jana Riethausen
    PR & Communications Lead – Viewpointsystem
    j.riethausen@viewpointsystem.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: SWA Lithium and Koch Technology Solutions Sign License for First Commercial DLE Project in North America

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    EL DORADO, Ark., Oct. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SWA Lithium, the Joint Venture between Standard Lithium and Equinor which is developing the South West Arkansas Project (“SWA” or the “Project”), is pleased to announce that it has entered into a license agreement with Koch Technology Solutions LLC (“KTS”) to deploy and use KTS’ Li-ProTM Lithium Selective Sorption (“Li-Pro LSS”) technology at the JV’s commercial plant for the SWA Phase 1 Project.

    The license agreement allows the JV to utilize KTS’ technology for the lifetime of the first phase of the Project, with an option for utilization in subsequent phases of the Project. Considerations and benefits of the license agreement include:

    • Rights to use the Li-Pro LSS technology for subsequent phases of the JV’s SWA Project;
    • Certain technology performance guarantees for lithium recovery, contaminant rejection and water use;
      • Lithium recovery ≥ 95.00%
      • Impurity rejection Calcium, Sodium, Potassium & Magnesium ≥ 99%
    • Technical support from KTS to fully integrate the Li-Pro LSS technology into overall process plant design;
    • Continued exclusive joint development of the technology in the Smackover Formation;
    • Technical support from KTS during commissioning and startup;
    • License payment phased over several milestones; and
    • Continued collaboration and technology refinement between SWA Lithium and KTS.

    Standard Lithium’s Director, President & COO, Dr. Andy Robinson commented: “Signing this license agreement is the culmination of over two years of close work with the KTS team to refine the direct lithium extraction (‘DLE’) technology and integrate it into the JV’s flowsheet. The Li-Pro LSS technology is now sufficiently scaled-up, tested and derisked, so not only is the JV comfortable committing to its use at commercial scale, but KTS is also able to offer performance guarantees for its commercial deployment. We view this as a significant derisking event for the Project, and it points to the successful ongoing partnership with the KTS team.”

    Garrett Krall, Business Leader for Koch Technology Solutions, said: “This license agreement for use of our Li-Pro LSS technology is another key milestone in the development of DLE as a commercially viable, economic and environmentally responsible solution to deliver against future lithium demand.”

    UPDATED PERFORMANCE OF COMMERCIAL-SCALE DLE COLUMN

    Standard Lithium is also pleased to announce the continued successful operation of the commercial-scale DLE column at its wholly-owned Demonstration Plant (“Demo Plant”) near El Dorado, Arkansas. The Company installed a commercial-scale DLE column in late March 2024 and has been operating the column continuously. The column is a Li-Pro LSS unit, supplied by KTS and identical to those currently being integrated into the front-end engineering and design (FEED) study for the SWA Project.

    Since commissioning, the column has exceeded the targeted design parameters for lithium recovery and rejection of impurities. Key technical highlights of the commercial-scale DLE column are provided below:

    • Lithium recovery efficiency of 95.4%: During a four-month continuous operating period (1st April to 31st July 2024), the Li-Pro LSS process achieved an average lithium recovery (i.e. after loading and elution) of 95.4% from the 90 gallons per minute (gpm) incoming brine flow (the average incoming brine contained 183 mg/L lithium during the same period).
    • Excellent contamination rejection rate: During the same period, the DLE process rejected, on average;
      • Sodium – 99.9%
      • Calcium – 99.6%
      • Magnesium – 99.2%
      • Potassium – 99.7%
      • Boron – 95.4%
        High and consistent contaminant rejection at the DLE stage means that the eluate (the initial lithium chloride solution) is easier and cheaper to further refine and concentrate using tested and proven steps to make a concentrated and purified lithium chloride solution. This solution can then be converted to a battery quality carbonate, as has been demonstrated multiple times and at several different scales, both at the Demo Plant and off-site with various third-party vendors.
    • Nearly 10,000 operational cycles for the Li-Pro LSS technology: The commercial-scale Li-Pro LSS column has completed over 725 operational cycles, and the Li-Pro LSS technology has completed over 9,740 operational cycles at the Demo Plant (as of early October 2024).
    • Over 24 million gallons of brine processed: As of the end of September 2024, the Demo Plant had processed 24,446,306 gallons (92,539,335 litres) of Smackover brine, produced directly from the formation and reinjected continuously back into the same formation.

    Figure 1 – Side elevation of operators working on the commercial-scale DLE column at Standard Lithium’s Demonstration Plant near El Dorado, Arkansas.

    About Standard Lithium Ltd.

    Standard Lithium is a leading near-commercial lithium development company focused on the sustainable development of a portfolio of large, high-grade lithium-brine properties in the United States. The Company prioritizes projects characterized by the highest quality resources, robust infrastructure, skilled labor, and streamlined permitting. Standard Lithium aims to achieve sustainable, commercial-scale lithium production via the application of a scalable and fully integrated Direct Lithium Extraction (“DLE”) and purification process. The Company’s flagship projects are located in the Smackover Formation, a world-class lithium brine asset, focused in Arkansas and Texas. In partnership with global energy leader Equinor ASA, Standard Lithium is advancing the South West Arkansas project, a greenfield project located in southern Arkansas, and actively exploring promising lithium brine prospects in East Texas. Additionally, the Company is advancing the Phase 1A project in partnership with LANXESS Corporation, a brownfield development project located in southern Arkansas. Standard Lithium also holds an interest in certain mineral leases in the Mojave Desert in San Bernardino County, California.

    Standard Lithium trades on both the TSX Venture Exchange and the NYSE American under the symbol “SLI”; and on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol “S5L”. Please visit the Company’s website at www.standardlithium.com.

    About Equinor

    Equinor is an international energy company committed to long-term value creation in a low-carbon future. Our purpose is to turn natural resources into energy for people and progress for society. Equinor’s portfolio of projects encompasses oil and gas, renewables and low-carbon solutions, with an ambition of becoming a net-zero energy company by 2050. Headquartered in Stavanger (Norway), Equinor is the leading operator on the Norwegian continental shelf. We are present in around 30 countries worldwide.

    About Koch Technology Solutions (KTS)

    Koch Technology Solutions is the technology licensing business of Koch Engineered Solutions (KES). KTS creates value for its customers across a growing portfolio of technologies including direct lithium extraction, the polyester value chain, and 1,4-Butananediol plus its derivates. KTS combines its exclusive technologies, expertise, and capabilities with those of other KES companies to provide overall solutions to optimize customer’s capital investments and existing manufacturing assets.

    Qualified Person

    Marek Dworzanowski, EUR ING, CEng, HonFSAIMM, FIMMM, a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43 -101 – Technical Report Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, and a Consulting Metallurgical Engineer who is independent of the Company, has reviewed and approved the relevant scientific and technical information in this news release.

    Twitter: @standardlithium
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/standard-lithium/

    Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release may contain certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and “forward looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. When used in this news release, the words “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “target, “plan”, “forecast”, “may”, “schedule” and other similar words or expressions identify forward-looking statements or information. These forward-looking statements or information may relate to intended development timelines, future prices of commodities, accuracy of mineral or resource exploration activity, reserves or resources, continued operation of the LSS column, regulatory or government requirements or approvals, the reliability of third party information, the continued accuracy of current contaminant rejection rates, continued access to mineral properties or infrastructure, fluctuations in the market for lithium and its derivatives, changes in exploration costs and government regulation in Canada and the United States, and other factors or information. Such statements represent the Company’s current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social risks, contingencies and uncertainties. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements and information other than as required by applicable laws, rules and regulations.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0c4dea63-0750-44b2-bea8-e287cc9be29c

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese supply chain expo to promote global industrial cooperation

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

    BEIJING, Oct. 28 — The second China International Supply Chain Expo will be held in Beijing from Nov. 26 to 30, and will focus on promoting international cooperation in industrial and supply chains, a Chinese trade official said on Monday.

    As the world’s first national-level exhibition focusing on supply chains, the expo aims to connect upstream, midstream and downstream sectors, bring together enterprises of various sizes, and help companies better integrate into global industrial and supply chains, said Zhang Shaogang, deputy director of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, at a press conference.

    This year’s expo will feature more than 600 domestic and foreign exhibitors. Overseas exhibitors will constitute 32 percent of participants at the 2024 expo, up from 26 percent at the first expo held last year, Zhang said.

    U.S. companies will contribute the largest share of overseas participation at the expo this year, while the number of participants from Europe and Japan will also significantly surpass that of the first expo, Zhang added.

    This shows foreign investors remain optimistic concerning the outlook of the Chinese market and that China is still considered their top supply chain partner for global resource allocation, said Zhang.

    Similar to last year, the expo will have areas dedicated to supply chains for clean energy, smart vehicles, digital technology, healthy living, green agriculture and supply chain services.

    In addition, this year’s expo has introduced a new exhibition area dedicated to advanced manufacturing chains — showcasing the latest achievements in the integration of technological and industrial innovation.

    Unlike many expos, the supply chain expo is not about showcasing products. It is, instead, about presenting chains, ecosystems and scenarios, Zhang added.

    Rather than focusing on short-term transactions, it emphasizes long-term cooperation and common development among upstream, midstream and downstream enterprises, Zhang explained. Exhibitors attend not to compete for clients, but to join hands and seek partnership.

    Hungary is the guest country of honor at this year’s expo. The Hungary Pavilion will showcase Hungary’s leading industries, unique resources, cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes and national brand image.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More Scottish energy projects unlocked to deliver clean power

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Consultation on proposed changes to improve the planning system for large energy projects in Scotland

    • UK and Scottish governments set out proposals to streamline the system for determining energy infrastructure consents in Scotland
    • consultation to reform outdated processes with the aim to cut delays and create a fairer system, in which communities can have their say from the outset
    • the move could help to unlock Scotland’s pipeline of energy projects, driving forward the UK’s clean power mission and energy independence

    The planning process for new clean energy infrastructure in Scotland will be improved under UK and Scottish government proposals to reform outdated legislation that can delay new projects being built. 

    In collaboration with the Scottish Government, the UK government has today (28 October) launched a consultation on proposed changes that will make the system for considering large energy projects in Scotland more efficient, while also ensuring that affected communities can have their say on proposals at the right time in the process. 

    Currently it can take up to four years to approve large electricity infrastructure projects in Scotland, such as power lines and onshore wind farms, under UK legislation that has been in place since 1989.

    This system can create uncertainty for investors and communities, which in turn can lead to higher costs being passed onto bill payers. In England and Wales, new large-scale electricity projects can take around half as long on average to be determined compared to Scotland, thanks to previous legislative reforms to streamline the process. 

    By making vital updates to the energy consents system in Scotland, the UK and Scottish governments aim to support the rollout of new clean energy projects while giving communities early and meaningful opportunities to be heard. The consultation proposes making it a requirement that communities and wider stakeholders are consulted at pre-application stage. 

    Energy Minister Michael Shanks said:  

    Scotland has huge potential to propel the UK towards our clean power by 2030 goal, with its natural resources, energy expertise and highly skilled workforce.  

    Together with the Scottish Government, we are modernising outdated bureaucratic processes to make sure Scotland is firmly open for business as we build the UK’s clean energy future.  

    This will help to accelerate new clean, homegrown energy – taking us a step closer to energy independence and protecting billpayers from the rollercoaster of volatile fossil fuel markets for good.

    Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy Gillian Martin said:

    These long-awaited UK legislative reforms will help support Scotland realise our clean power ambitions, while providing investors with confidence that a more robust and efficient process is being applied.

    This will in turn support our net zero ambitions, enable economic growth and ensure our communities have an enhanced opportunity to be heard.

    Today’s announcement forms the next step in joint work from the two governments to cement Scotland’s role in making the UK a clean energy superpower.  

    It comes after the UK government confirmed Aberdeen as the headquarters for the publicly-owned company Great British Energy, that will own and invest in clean power projects across the UK. This month, Scottish and UK governments also signed an agreement to support clean energy supply chains and infrastructure, via new partnerships between Great British Energy and Scottish public bodies. 

    The proposed reforms aim to provide developers and communities with an updated system when submitting plans for large clean energy projects. The changes cover the entire process from pre-application to challenging decisions, tackling issues that have already been addressed in England and Wales under previous reforms. They include: 

    • Pre-application requirements: New standardised processes for both onshore and offshore developers to engage with local communities and stakeholders before submitting an application to the Scottish Government for new energy infrastructure. This will involve communities at an earlier stage and improve the quality and speed of applications, with new powers for the Scottish Government to reject any that do not meet requirements. The Scottish Government will also be able to charge fees for pre-application services, helping to deliver the new system effectively. 

    • Appealing decisions: Standardising the appeals process, with set criteria for challenging decisions on new energy infrastructure and a 6-week time limit in which objections can be raised. Currently challenges to large onshore projects must be brought by judicial review within three months, which can lead to lengthy delays.  

    • Public Inquiries: Reforming the public inquiry process which is automatically triggered when Planning Authorities raise objections to new energy infrastructure. These inquiries can take an average of 18 months and have cost the Scottish Government £1.9 million since 2021. Under the proposals, inquiry sessions will still be held where necessary, but other forms of decision making will also be deployed on a case-by-case basis guided by a specialist reporter.

    • Changes to planning consent: New powers to allow the Scottish Government to revoke, suspend or vary consents for energy infrastructure projects under specific circumstances. This will allow for necessary amends to be made, without the applicant having to restart the process. 

    • Necessary wayleaves: A new power for the Scottish Government to charge developers a fee for submitting wayleave applications to place overhead lines on private land. Similar fees are charged in England and Wales, and will help the Scottish Government to meet an expected increase in applications in the rollout of new clean energy projects.   

    Notes to editors:  

    The consultation, launched today, will run for 4 weeks until 26 November. Read more about the consultation.

    All decisions on new energy infrastructure projects in Scotland are devolved and applications over 50MW are made to the Scottish Government. The UK government is responsible for energy policy and the legislative framework (i.e. Electricity Act 1989) is reserved for the UK Parliament.  

    Changes to the Planning Act 2008 (such as Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects) helped to speed up decision making on energy infrastructure projects in England and Wales. The proposed reforms in this consultation will update the approvals process for energy infrastructure in Scotland.  

    Following the consultation process, the UK government will bring forward the necessary legislation as soon as Parliamentary time allows.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK statement for 75th session of the UNHCR Executive Committee

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    UK general statement delivered by the UK’s Permanent Representative to the WTO and UN, Simon Manley, at the 75th session of the UNHCR Executive Committee, October 2024.

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

    Thank you, Chair, High Commissioner,

    Let me start by paying tribute to those humanitarians who have so tragically lost their lives in the past year – not least among them the UNHCR colleagues whom we have lost in the course of their duties in Lebanon. They have paid the ultimate price in their labour for peace and humanitarianism.

    We are deeply concerned about the escalating humanitarian situation in the Middle East and in Lebanon. The UK emphasises all parties’ obligation to comply with international humanitarian law and to ensure protection for civilians and civilian infrastructure. My government has been clear: the fighting must stop, the hostages must be freed, and there must be safe and free humanitarian access to those in need.

    Turning to the themes of the Executive Committee, as we face future uncertainties and ever-increasing global displacement, we need to continue to work in solidarity and in unity to find solutions. Forcibly displaced persons demand and expect that the international community takes responsibility.

    My government’s commitment to multilateralism and multilateral solutions is clear and deep-rooted. The UK will work hand-in-hand with UNHCR to respond to the growing list of protracted and emerging crises. We will tackle climate and nature emergencies and global development challenges together, by working for peace and promoting global economic development and growth to develop sustainable solutions. And we welcome the High Commissioner’s recent visit to London and the contact he has had with UK Ministers.

    But clearly, the situation in countries of origin needs international attention too. We need to address root causes and invest in early anticipatory action that builds resilience and independence. We need partnerships that promote local leadership. And we need to empower women and girls.

    Where needs arise, UNHCR must continue to provide protection for the most vulnerable. But clearly, more predictable and more sustainable support is needed so that increasingly stretched resources can be used more efficiently to keep pace with rising needs. UNHCR’s ongoing commitment to reform, efficiencies and effectiveness is an important part of this.

    The UK is committed to seeking sustainable solutions together. Not just because inclusion in national systems is the right thing to do, but also because it is the smart thing to do. And we support national ownership and the leadership of hosting countries, who I want to recognize here for their generosity, where this is in refugees’ best interests.

    This is why, at last year’s Global Refugee Forum, the UK highlighted the need to look beyond traditional humanitarian partnerships to galvanize joint sustainable action. And we have been working hard with our partners over the last ten months to put those commitments into action.

    We must be led by the needs of displaced people wherever and whenever we find them. But I want to point to two specific crises which demand our attention. Firstly, Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine in flagrant breach of the UN Charter. This year, the UK provided £100 million in humanitarian assistance and like my Czech colleague I want to pay tribute to the British people who have extended sanctuary to almost 300,000 Ukrainians since the start of the invasion.

    And Sudan which is perhaps the world’s most severe humanitarian crisis with almost 25 million people in need of assistance. Thank you, High Commissioner, for speaking out so clearly about the scale and horror of the conflict. We have provided almost £100m in assistance for Sudan this year.

    And finally, on statelessness, we are grateful to UNHCR for its leadership of the I Belong campaign. The achievements are a strong foundation on which to launch the Global Alliance, which the UK is honoured to join. We know statelessness can be ended, and we look forward to working with others on this shared mission.

    I’ll end by reiterate the UK’s gratitude to all UNHCR staff who tirelessly provide assistance to those who need it, so often in such difficult and dangerous circumstances. Let us, through the Executive Committee, show them our sustained support.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Coastguard station is ‘great news for both the team and the island’

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    After around 40 years in the same station, a coastguard rescue team on the Isle of Wight has a new home.

    Needles Coastguard Rescue Team standing outside their new station

    Needles Coastguard Rescue Team is now operating from its new station at Golden Hill Fort in the Freshwater area, offering a spacious, modern and well-equipped space to prepare for search and rescue missions.

    With a dedicated training room and washing and drying facilities, and located in the heart of the community, the team of 11 volunteers will be even more ready to respond to those in need.

    Senior Coastal Operations Officer Andrew Woodford said:

    This is great news for both the team and the island, as we are now in a much better place to respond to call outs and undertake training activities.

    The station is future-proof so it will be there for officers for years to come, it looks the part, and has all the facilities we need in a much more suitable space.

    A fit-for-purpose station is such an important part of coastguard training and response, so this is a brilliant addition to the service which will have clear benefits.

    After 12 months of planning and costing more than £200,000, the building and fit-out took around three months to complete, with the final touches added in October, marking its operational status.

    An official opening ceremony for the new station will take place later this year.

    Press office

    Email public.relations@mcga.gov.uk

    Press enquiries (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm) 0203 817 2222

    Outside these hours or on bank holidays and weekends, for media enquiries ONLY, please send an email outlining your query and putting #Urgent in the subject title.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Help create a fairer private rented sector in Westminster | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Westminster City Council is inviting tenants, landlords, property agents and anyone with experience or an interest in the private rented housing sector to have their say on the council’s proposals to introduce a new property licensing scheme in parts of the city.

    The scheme, if approved, would apply to private rented homes that are occupied by a family or a maximum of two sharers. It is known as selective licensing.

    The private rented sector (PRS) continues to grow across the country and Westminster has the largest PRS in England. With the ongoing national housing crisis, an increased shortage of social housing and home ownership unobtainable for many, private rented housing is often the only viable option.

    In 2021, the council introduced a boroughwide additional houses in multiple occupation (HMO) licensing scheme to improve safety standards for tenants living in small HMOs. The council want to ensure the safety of more residents and are now proposing that privately rented homes of all types (not just HMOs) should be licensed in 15 wards across the borough. This will help the council to tackle poor housing conditions and antisocial behaviour in the PRS.

    Councillor Matt Noble, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters, said:

    We know that most landlords and agents operating in Westminster provide homes that are safe, of a high standard and managed well. When properties are not safe and well managed, the impact upon the lives of tenants and the wider community can be detrimental. Sometimes this is because landlords are not aware of their responsibilities and sometimes this is because criminal landlords knowingly flout housing laws.

    “We want to ensure that all private rented properties are operating legally and, above all else, safe.

    “Before any decisions are made, we need the views of everyone in the borough, especially those that live in a private rented home.”

    Westminster City Council is consulting about a licensing scheme which, if it is introduced, could come into effect from spring 2026.

    The consultation runs until Sunday 19 January 2025, and everyone can share their views by visiting www.westminster.gov.uk/prs

    Paper copies will be available at libraries throughout the city and can be requested by emailing [email protected] or calling 020 7641 6161.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Delegation of SPbGASU visited Lakhta Center

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Delegation of SPbGASU and representatives of the Leningrad Region Construction Committee: Alexander Glukhanov, Marina Malyutina, Roman Motylev, Anna Tsarenko, Andrey Nikulin, Evgeny Korolev, Olga Pastukh, Sergey Mikhailov, Svetlana Golovina, Alexander Dorozhkin, Galina Tokunova, Ekaterina Voznyak and Evgeny Enokaev

    A delegation from SPbGASU headed by First Vice-Rector Svetlana Golovina visited the Lakhta Center on October 22. The delegation included Vice-Rector for Educational Activities Sergey Mikhailov, Vice-Rector for Research Activities Evgeny Korolev, Vice-Rector for Youth Policy Marina Malyutina, Dean of the Faculty of Civil Engineering, Head of the Department of Technosphere Safety Andrey Nikulin, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Civil Engineering for Research Work Olga Pastukh, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Civil Engineering for Career Guidance Work Alexander Glukhanov, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Civil Engineering for Educational Work Anna Tsarenko, Head of the Department of Construction Organization Roman Motylev, Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Management Galina Tokunova and Dean of the Faculty of Architecture Ekaterina Voznyak. The visit took place with the support of the Leningrad Region Construction Committee and personally the First Deputy Chairman of the Committee, Evgeny Enokaev, as well as the Deputy Chairman of the Industrial Construction Committee, Oleg Razgulyaev.

    Representatives of SPbGASU visited the tallest building in Europe, discussed its design features and visited the observation deck on the 83rd–86th floors of the tower, which offers a breathtaking view of St. Petersburg from a height of 365 m.

    The Lakhta Center complex includes public and business buildings: the Gazprom headquarters, including office space and a transformable conference hall with 390 seats, a multifunctional public and scientific and educational center with a planetarium, and much more.

    In 2024, as part of the Russia exhibition at VDNKh, the approved concept for the further development of the complex was presented to the general public, including the construction of two more high-rises, 555 and 703 m high. The construction of the second of them, symbolically referring to the year the city on the Neva was founded, is planned to be completed by the 330th anniversary of St. Petersburg.

    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: cBrain lowers expected yearly revenue growth to 10-15%, but maintains EBT margin of 24-28%

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company Announcement no. 10/2024

    cBrain lowers expected yearly revenue growth to 10-15%, but maintains EBT margin of 24-28%

    Copenhagen, November 28, 2024

    cBrain (NASDAQ: CBRAIN) is executing its international growth plan with a financial goal of reaching total revenue of 350 million DKK in 2025. This goal is anchored in two primary revenue streams, referred to as “Base” and “Stepping stones”. 

    The “Base” stream aims to achieve annual revenue growth of 10-15% by strengthening and expanding existing operations and customer relationships. In parallel, the “Stepping Stones” initiative aims to lift annual revenue growth to 30%, by increasing contract values and winning larger international contracts.

    cBrain continues to execute its growth strategy, building a robust pipeline of major opportunities. This is facilitated by a growing number of international pilot projects that set the stage for significant “Stepping Stones” achievements.

    In early 2024, cBrain anticipated some of these opportunities, particularly in Germany and the U.S., to yield significant revenue in the second half of the year. cBrain remains highly active in these pursuits and has added further opportunities during the year.

    However, not unusually with larger government procurement, delays in decision making mean that cBrain estimates less than a 50% likelihood of substantial revenue from larger international projects materializing in Q4. Consequently, cBrain adjusts its 2024 revenue growth forecast to 10-15%, down from the initial estimate of 20-25%.

    In alignment with business planning, cBrain has earmarked financial investments to support “Stepping Stones” projects in Germany and the U.S. Since these projects have not yet materialized, these reserved funds have not been deployed. This provides a positive impact on earnings. cBrain, therefore, maintains its EBT (Earnings Before Tax) guidance at 24-30%.

    —

    Larger international projects are often structured so that F2 standard software licenses form the majority of the contract value. Due to financial standards for software revenue recognition, larger international orders may, as a result, introduce greater variability in revenue patterns over time.

    As cBrain is currently pursuing global opportunities across the USA, Europe, Africa, the UAE, and India, some of these opportunities may still materialize during the fourth quarter, with a positive affect on this year’s revenue.
    ​

    Best regards

    Per Tejs Knudsen, CEO

    Inquiries regarding this Company Announcement may be directed to

    Ejvind Jørgensen, CFO & Head of Investor Relations, cBrain A/S, ir@cbrain.com, +45 2594 4973

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –