Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 10/16/2024, 13:30 the values of the lower limit of the repo price corridor, the carry rate and the range of interest rate risk assessment for the MGKL security were changed.

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    10/16/2024

    13:30

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and deposit market of Moscow Exchange PJSC by NCO NCC (JSC), on 16.10.2024, 13-30 (Moscow time), the values of the lower limit of the repo price corridor with the settlement code Y0/Y1Dt (up to -23.59%), the transfer rate and the range of interest rate risk assessment (up to -0.0019 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 46.36%) of the MGKL security were changed.

    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://www.moex.com/n74033

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 10/16/2024, 12:03 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for security RU000A102986 (SUEK-F1P6R) were changed.

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    10/16/2024

    12:03

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and deposit market of Moscow Exchange PJSC by NCO NCC (JSC) on 16.10.2024, 12-03 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 100.02) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 1112.12 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 8.75%) of the security RU000A102986 (SUEK-F1P6R) were changed.

    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://www.moex.com/n74029

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Decommissioning of the client part of the “CED” software

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    Dear users of EDI services,

    We inform you that the service “Client part of the software “CED”” will be decommissioned from January 1, 2025. This service provides the ability to conclude purchase and sale agreements in electronic form between organizations participating in the CED system. There are no plans to transfer this functionality to other systems. For the purpose of concluding purchase and sale agreements in electronic form, we recommend using the MOEX Dealing / Trade Radar systems, which have the closest similar functionality (these systems do not have the ability to sign documents with an EDS, which can be implemented using the back office systems of your organization). The services will be canceled by Moscow Exchange PJSC unilaterally. Signing of any additional agreements or applications is not required. We ask you to bring this information to the attention of the responsible departments. For all questions related to this notice, you can contact us at itssales@moex.com

    Contact information for media 7 (495) 363-3232PR@moex.com

    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://www.moex.com/n74032

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Halloween events with Leeds City Council

    Source: City of Leeds

    Halloween Trail at Leeds City Museum

    Dare to explore a Halloween trail with artworks created by local schools, families, and our arts and crafts groups inspired by Halloween themed objects in the museum. Along the way, learn fun Halloween facts about the history of the holiday and how it’s celebrated around the world.

    Friday 25 October to Friday 29 November, cost: free

    Find out more: Halloween Trail https://bit.ly/3U8zXbY
     

    Once Upon a Nightmare: Twisted Tales Unveiled at Lotherton

    Experience a spine-chilling experience for brave souls aged 8 to 15. Step into the pages of twisted fairy tales and witness the serene grounds of Lotherton transform into a haunting world where your favourite fairy tale characters live out their darkest versions of reality.

    Friday 25 to Thursday 31 October, 5pm to 8:30pm, cost: £12.50 (£10 for children with a Breeze Pass/Lotherton members)

    Find out more: Once Upon a Nightmare: Twisted Tales Unveiled https://bit.ly/3Y3xQHr

    Spooky Skeleton Safari at Tropical World

    With Tropical World decorated for Halloween, come and explore the indoor zoo over the October half term. Uncover a host of spooky animal skeletons hidden in their mangroves, rainforest and enclosures, and discover interesting facts as you take part in the trail.

    Saturday 26 October to Sunday 3 November, cost: adults – £8.40, children 3 to 15 – £4.20, under 3s free

    Find out more: Spooky Skeleton Safari https://bit.ly/3ZZTK0I

    Spooky Skeletons: Scarytales at Lotherton


    This is a daytime event perfect for all ages. As you follow the twisted fairytales trail through the haunting grounds, gardens and house at Lotherton, all is not as it seems. Rattle your bones as you come face-to-face with a series of skeletons – making themselves at home and reimagining classic tales with a Halloween twist.

    Saturday 26 October to Sunday 3 November, cost: included in admission to Lotherton

    Find out more: Spooky Skeletons: Scarytales https://bit.ly/3ZX7N7v

    Halloween Hauntings at Temple Newsam

    Temple Newsam is infamous for its ghostly residents. Visit over October half term for spooky family fun. Enjoy the themed rooms and creepy crafts.  Staff will be hand to tell you eerie stories of past residents.

    Saturday 26 October to Sunday 3 November, cost: included in admission to Temple Newsam

    Find out more: Halloween Hauntings at Temple Newsam https://bit.ly/3Yijh49

    Spooky Streets: Halloween at Abbey House Museum

    Wander the museum’s Spooky Streets to encounter scary spiders, wicked witches, wily wolves, beguiling bats and skeletons pulling pints! Come dressed as your favourite Halloween character and pose for petrifying pics. There will be a terrifying trail and creepy competitions as you go around the museum and a monster bag of crafts and activities to take home.

    Saturday 26 October to Sunday 3 November, cost: included in admission to Abbey House Museum

    Find out more: Spooky Streets: Halloween at Abbey House Museum https://bit.ly/3Yjbumx

    Haunted Halloween Hunt at Kirkstall Abbey

    Join the Abbey’s family trail through the ruins to find creepy creatures, spooky statues and peculiar props. It’s not too scary so suitable for all the family.

    Saturday 26 October to Sunday 3 November, cost: included in admission to Kirkstall Abbey (free for Leeds residents)

    Find out more: Haunted Halloween Hunt https://bit.ly/3Nt4Xzn

    Calacas Crafts at Leeds City Museum

    Celebrate Mexican and Latin American artists by designing your own Day of the Dead mask or assembling your own flower crown. To help celebrate Day of the Dead at Leeds City Museum, your family can also add to one of their giant skull paintings!

    Tuesday 29 to Thursday 31 October, 10am to 12pm and 1pm to 3pm, cost: free

    Find out more: Half Term: Calacas Crafts https://bit.ly/4dDEqu4

    Leeds Zine Library Lates! Hallow’zine at Leeds Central Library

    Join the libraries team on the spookiest month for their Halloween edition of the zine library lates. There will be cats, bats and a monster of a party! On the night you can make a spooky zine, create some monster badges, and sew felt creatures all while enjoying their Halloween playlist.

    Wednesday 30 October, 5:30pm to 7:30pm, cost: free

    Find out more: Leeds Zine Library Lates! Hallow’zine https://bit.ly/4dCQ5Jy


    Spooktacular Family Day at Leeds Central Library

    Join authors and artists for spine-tingling stories, creepy draw-a-longs, and eerie activities.

    A light breakfast and drinks will be available on arrival, bring your own packed lunch and spooky outfits are encouraged. Family friendly and most suitable to children aged 6 years and over. A BSL interpreter will be present at all author talks in the Tiled Hall and at Jack’s Ghastly Masterclass.

    Thursday 31 October, 10:15am to 2:30pm, cost: free

    Find out more: Spooktacular Family Day https://bit.ly/4eBCp2P

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Jobs fair to showcase careers in care

    Source: City of Sunderland

    Those looking for careers in social care can take advantage of a free recruitment fair showcasing opportunities in the sector later this month.

    Sunderland Care and Support (SCAS), one of the largest social care providers in the region, will hold a recruitment fayre on Thursday 24 October at the Leechmere Centre, where attendees will be able to find out more about working in care, meet staff and senior managers, and even get support with applying for roles.

    Councillor Kelly Chequer, Sunderland City Council’s Cabinet member for Health, Wellbeing and Safer Communities, said: “As a leading provider of adult care services for some of the most vulnerable individuals in our community, SCAS operates a diverse range of vital services designed to support those with conditions ranging from autism to mental health challenges to complex needs.

    “The people working in these roles make a huge difference to people’s lives and if you think you could be one of them, I would encourage you to come along to this recruitment event to find out more about a rewarding career in social care.”

    Among the roles being recruited as SCAS are jobs relating to:

    • Supported Living Services
    • Day Services
    • Short Breaks
    • Planned Care and Reablement Services
    • Community Equipment
    • Community and Bed-Based Intermediate Care
    • Digital and Telecare Services
    • Business Relationship Teams

    The Sunderland Care and Support Recruitment Fayre will be held at the Leechmere Centre, Carrmere Road, Sunderland, SR2 9TQ on Thursday 24 October from 4-8pm.

    Anyone interested in finding out more is welcome to drop in during the session.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Event celebrates the Tak£500+ project success within local communities!

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    PB Working Group members#.

    The recent Tak£500+ Participatory Budgeting Project exceeded all expectations with an incredible £105,906 allocated to 108 fantastic local community projects – and an event to celebrate all of the wonderful projects took place at Seagoe Hotel, Portadown.

    Over 200 people came along to hear how the Tak£500+ Project had benefited communities right across the borough and to hear more about Participatory Budgeting and how it enables local people to decide how public funds are used to address needs in their area.

    Organised by the Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Community Planning Partnership, an amazing 4286 people voted for the projects they wanted to see receive up to £1,000 funding, and the impact these projects left on each area was remarkable. All projects were centred around the Take 5 public health message.

    “This was the third year of the Tak£500+ project and it really did exceed all expectations once again,” commented the Lord Mayor, Councillor Sarah Duffy, “and the success of this project is all down to the local communities who put forward their ideas and then made them a reality.

    “Putting the decision making process in the hands of local people to tell us how public funds can be spent to address needs in their areas is vitally important and ensures that this money is spent in the best way possible, to really make a difference and a lasting impact on our residents

    “We are lucky to have such a rich community life in this borough and along with the Community Planning Partnership – and in particular the PB Working Group – made this project a huge success with lasting results across the borough.”

    Colette Rogers, Chair of Community Planning Strategic Partnership added, “This event was a wonderful reflection on just how meaningful and valuable the Tak£500+ Project is and demonstrated how powerful local communities can be at making decisions that leave a real and lasting impact in their areas.

    “This project is something we are passionate to build upon moving forward and we would love to welcome more partners on board to contribute their expertise and resources – as this is how we can increase our funding and support even more projects, with local communities reaping the benefits.”

    If you would like more information on how you can get involved as a partner, please contact Michelle Markey on 0300 0300 900.

    Also, watch this space for more details on the next Tak£500+ Project and how you can apply for funding for your community!

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Funfair Suppliers – Applications Open for St Patrick’s Festival 2025

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council invites proposals from suppliers to bid for the supply of a combined package of fun fair rides that offer excellent value and create a family friendly event over Saint Patrick’s weekend.

    Please note that all bids should include a proposal that is quoting for both locations combined. Council will not accept any bids that quote for one or the other location separately.

    Solitude Park, Banbridge
    Saturday, 15 March 2025 – 12pm-10pm
    Sunday, 16 March 2025 – 1pm-10pm
    Monday, 17 March 2025 – 12pm-8pm

    Shambles Yard, Armagh
    Saturday, 15 March 2025 – 12pm-10pm
    Sunday, 16 March 2025 – 12pm-10pm
    Monday, 17 March 2025 – 12pm-8pm

    DEADLINE for submission of responses is Tuesday, 12th November 2024 at 12 noon
    Download application here.

    For additional queries, please contact Jayne Currie at 

    *protected email*

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Making a splash: Historic Hilsea Lido seeks tenant amid transformation

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Global real estate firm, Avison Young, is working with Portsmouth City Council to bring to market Hilsea Lido whilst it undergoes a transformational renovation project. The lido is set to reopen in summer 2025, which is the same year it will celebrate its 90th anniversary.

    The 1930s open-air swimming pool is part of Portsmouth City Council’s Hilsea Lines project to improve the area, which was awarded funding from the UK government.

    The renovation of this much-loved community asset includes a total refurbishment of the 67m long pool and surroundings, with new outdoor changing facilities and showers, and extensive landscaping, allowing it to be enjoyed once again for many years to come.

    The original lido changing rooms, splash pool and the former Blue Lagoon café offer the opportunity for future transformation by a tenant to create complementary facilities to enhance the wider offer and development of a destination landmark facility for the community, residents of Portsmouth and the public alike.

    The restoration and reopening of the Lido comes as Swim England recently launched their ‘Don’t Cap Swimming’ campaign, which found that over 1,500 pools in England are over 40 years of age and in need of funding for renovation.

    Richard Baldwin, Director at Avison Young UK said:

    “We’re delighted to be working with the Council on this important historical leisure project. It’s rewarding to see such an important community asset being brought back to life. We’re now seeking all expressions of interest for a long-term tenant operator who shares the Council’s vision to promote Hilsea Lido’s use as a hub for the people of Portsmouth, encouraging people to swim, children to learn and families to play.

    The lido will be transformed into a much needed and loved asset for the people of Portsmouth, and we’re delighted to play a part in its reopening.”

    Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council added:

     “Hilsea Lido is an iconic Portsmouth attraction, which is now receiving some much-needed TLC to get it open so it can be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. Our work will ensure the pool will open next year with modern changing facilities ready for the 90th anniversary of the lido.

    “We’ll work closely the appointed operator to enable future phases of renovation work at the lido, so we can create a real ‘jewel in the crown’ of the wider Hilsea Lines project. We’re committed to sport in this city, so we see this a real opportunity to offer open air swimming and other water-based activities in a safe and unique environment.”

    £20m was awarded to Portsmouth City Council from the UK government for the ‘Transforming the Visitor Economy’ project, which the Hilsea Lines scheme is part of. £11.25m of the funding went to the now completed terminal transformation project at Portsmouth international Port which opened in August 2023.

    Expressions of interest for Hilsea Lido can be directed to: https://www.avisonyoung.co.uk/

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Europe: World Food Day (October 16, 2024)

    Source: Republic of France in English
    The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

    On this World Food Day, France reaffirms its commitment to the fight against every form of food insecurity and malnutrition.

    In 2023, 281.6 million people faced high levels of food insecurity, 24 million more than in 2022. One hundred fifty million children under the age of five are suffering from delayed growth and 37 million are underweight.

    France is fully engaged in the fight against malnutrition, which affects health and education systems and economies worldwide.

    On March 27 and 28, 2025, Paris will host the Nutrition for Growth (N4G) summit, which will bring together members of the entire international nutrition community (governments, international organizations, civil society, companies, scientists) to undertake concrete, ambitious commitments to help combat all forms of malnutrition.

    In light of worsening food crises in conflict zones, particularly in Gaza and Sudan, France remains fully mobilized through financial support for international organizations and food aid projects. France is also the leading funder of the Grain from Ukraine program, which was launched in 2022 as a response to the impact of the Russian aggression on global food insecurity in seven countries : Somalia, Yemen, Sudan, Palestine, Djibouti, Malawi and Zambia.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The University acted as a regional platform for the All-Russian Economic Dictation

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering –

    On October 15, the eighth annual event “All-Russian Economic Dictation” took place, the motto of which is “Strong Economy – Prosperous Russia!” The goal of this event is economic education and development of economic culture of citizens. Residents of Russia in all regions of the country, as well as citizens of neighboring countries, participate in writing the economic dictation. This year, 1,340 regional sites were registered for holding the event: interest in the economic dictation is growing every year.

    SPbGASU annually acts as a regional venue for the event, and students of the Faculty of Economics and Management become active participants in the event. Third- and fourth-year students managed to successfully answer questions, some of which were interdisciplinary in nature in connection with such sciences as history, social science, and jurisprudence.

    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://www.spbgasu.ru/nevs-and-events/nevs/university-acted-as-a-regional-platform-for-all-Russian-economic-dictation/

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Students of SPbGASU met with participants of the Special Military Operation

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Valery Zinkevich and Anatoly Noskov

    On October 15–16, the SPbGASU Youth Policy Department organized meetings between our university students and participants of the Special Military Operation Anatoly Noskov, Valery Zinkevich, and Gennady Kuz. They came to the front line by different paths, but with one goal – to defend the Fatherland.

    Captain Anatoly Noskov is a 2022 graduate of SPbGASU. He was mobilized at the same time. Anatoly is a hereditary military man: the grandson of an admiral and the son of a KGB colonel. First, he graduated from the Nakhimov School, then the Frunze Higher Naval School (now the Peter the Great Naval Corps – St. Petersburg Naval Institute). He worked in the criminal investigation service. He started as a deputy company commander for military-patriotic work, and later became the commander of the assault company Z. In total, Captain Noskov’s front-line biography includes 11 assaults, two wounds, one of which was serious.

    Valery Zinkevich has been involved in public activities since 2010 and has traveled to almost all the liberated territories of the new regions as a volunteer since the beginning of the SVO. He admits that what he saw inspired him to decide to go to the front as a volunteer. The commander of the assault platoon of the special forces “Akhmat” has difficult battles and a serious injury behind him. Today, he manages seven charity projects, is the leader of the public-patriotic bloc “For the Fatherland and Faith”, and an adviser to the head of the Moscow district of St. Petersburg on patriotic education of youth.

    Gennady Kuz is a combat veteran who organizes humanitarian aid and solves social problems for the SVO servicemen and their families.

    At the meeting with students, they talked not only about the difficult and dangerous everyday life of the military on the front line, about what success in completing combat missions depends on, and the role of the ability to work in a team. They also talked about what is no less important for each person: goals in life, civic duty, service to the Motherland, moral priorities, family.

    “Our life is formed on the values and traditions that are laid down in childhood and youth. I am talking about the role of family, the importance of traditions and goals. Only together are we strong. Such meetings provide feedback: schoolchildren, students, and their parents contact me. This confirms that we are on the right path,” said Valery Zinkevich.

    Student Andrey Gogenko is one of the most active participants of the meeting. It turned out that he has a good idea of what they are talking about.

    “I am a great-grandson, grandson, son of military personnel, and most of my life was spent in military towns. My father will soon go on a mission to a combat zone. At first, I also wanted to follow in their footsteps, but then I decided to first get a civilian profession. I learn about the situation in the SVO from the media, but from the participants themselves it is perceived completely differently. I agree with them: we must be united, attentive to each other, in order to achieve common and significant goals for all of us,” Andrey said.

    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://www.spbgasu.ru/nevs-and-events/nevs/students-spbgasu-met-with-participants-of-a-special-military-operation/

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lord Mayor of Oxford continues 600-year-old tradition by inspecting city’s historic walls

    Source: City of Oxford

    Published: Wednesday, 16 October 2024

    The Lord Mayor of Oxford, Councillor Mike Rowley, will uphold a 600 year old tradition by inspecting the city’s historic walls on 23 October; a responsibility dating back to the reign of Richard II.

    This unique ceremony honours a centuries-old agreement between Oxford and New College, which has been preserved since 30 June 1379. 

    The tradition began when King Richard II granted the land for the founding of New College on the condition that the college maintains the city’s defensive walls. To ensure that the walls were kept in good repair, a contract was established, and every three years since then, the Lord Mayor of Oxford has inspected them. 

    This year the Lord Mayor, accompanied by fellow city councillors, will once again undertake the ceremonial walk from Oxford Town Hall to New College. The procession will be led by the City Mace, and as custom dictates, they will stop at New College’s gate on New College Lane. There, the Mace Bearer will knock three times, symbolically requesting permission for the Lord Mayor and councillors to enter. 

    Upon receiving permission, the Warden and Fellows of New College will lead the group through the college garden to inspect the ancient walls that still stand as part of Oxford’s rich history. 

    In accordance with the 14th-century contract, New College features gates on either side of the city walls. These gates were not only constructed to facilitate the Lord Mayor’s inspections but also to provide a passage for the defence of Oxford in times of war. 

    Comments 

    “It is a privilege to continue this long-standing tradition, which connects our modern city to its medieval roots. The walls are a testament to the strength and resilience of Oxford, and it is an honour to carry out this duty on behalf of the city and its people.” 
    The Lord Mayor of Oxford, Councillor Mike Rowley 

    “We are proud to uphold the agreement made over six centuries ago. This tradition is a reflection of our commitment to Oxford and its heritage, and we look forward to welcoming the Lord Mayor and the councillors for this important inspection.” 
    Miles Young, Warden, New College 

    The event is a reminder of Oxford’s deep historical ties and its commitment to preserving the city’s heritage for future generations. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: On 17.10.2024, the deposit auction of JSC “Corporation “MSP” will take place

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    Parameters;

    The date of the deposit auction is 10/17/2024. The placement currency is RUB. The maximum amount of funds placed (in the placement currency) is 1,455,000,000.00. The placement period, days is 33. The date of depositing funds is 10/18/2024. The date of return of funds is 11/20/2024. The minimum placement interest rate, % per annum is 18.00. Terms of the conclusion, urgent or special (Urgent). The minimum amount of funds placed for one application (in the placement currency) is 1,455,000,000.00. The maximum number of applications from one Participant, pcs. 1. Auction form, open or closed (Open). The basis of the Agreement is the General Agreement. Schedule (Moscow time). Applications in preliminary mode from 10:30 to 10:40. Bids in competition mode from 10:40 to 10:50. Setting the cutoff percentage or declaring the auction invalid before 11:30.

    Additional terms

    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://www.moex.com/n74042

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fostering security-related scientific cooperation with Romania through NATO’s SPS Programme

    Source: NATO

    On Wednesday (16 October 2024), members of NATO’s Science for Peace and Security (SPS) team were in Bucharest to announce an upcoming call for proposals on security-related scientific cooperation. The new call invites researchers from Romania, as well as other NATO and partner nations, to submit proposals for collaborative research activities.

    The information day was also an opportunity to mark Romania’s twentieth anniversary in NATO and highlight how Romania’s scientific community has contributed to NATO over the years. Dignitaries and researchers alike gathered to mark past and current successes of cooperation through the Science for Peace and Security Programme.

    Thanks to one project, medical specialists have been able to use telemedicine to remotely assist during major disasters, and another SPS project helped build operational capabilities for civil protection in Mauritania. One of the current SPS activities involving Romania helps strengthen the Republic of Moldova’s capacity to respond to Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) incidents.

    The SPS information day was co-organized with the Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digitalization and the Military Technical Academy of the Ministry of Defence of Romania. 

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Europe: New Employment Law Review Group

    Source: Government of Ireland – Department of Jobs Enterprise and Innovation

    Minister seeks expressions of interest and nominees from representative bodies

    The Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment is seeking nominees as representatives of expert, technical, legal, government and regulatory bodies. Also sought are expressions of interest from suitably qualified candidates for appointment to one of the six Ministerial nominations to the Employment Law Review Group (ELRG). 

    Ministerial nominees to the ELRG will be appointed by the Minister arising from a call for expressions of interest which is open to all interested parties.  It is proposed to have a maximum of six such nominees on the ELRG. The deadline for receipt of expressions of interest is 3pm 8 November 2024. 

    Members of the ELRG will give their services voluntarily. All members will be appointed for a four-year term and can be re-appointed for up to two terms.  The Chairperson can serve up to ten years in total. 

    The Programme for Government contains a commitment to “review whether the legal provisions surrounding collective redundancies and the liquidation of companies effectively protect the rights of workers”. Following discussions with the Social Partners, the ‘Plan for Action on Collective Redundancies following Insolvency’ was published on 9 June 2021. This set out several commitments to further safeguard the rights of workers including the setting up on a statutory basis of an Employment Law Review Group.

    The ELRG has been established on a statutory basis by the enactment of the Employment (Collective Redundancies and Miscellaneous Provisions) and Companies (Amendment) Act 2024, which was commenced on 1 July 2024. 

    The ELRG’s function will be to monitor, review, and advise on all aspects of employment and redundancy law, with a specific focus on promoting good workplace relations in the State, simplifying the operation of employment and redundancy law in the State, and ensuring that the State’s suite of employment rights and redundancy legislation remains relevant and fit for purpose and is updated to reflect international developments. 

    The ELRG will comprise of members who have expertise and an interest in the development of employment and redundancy law, including practitioners (the legal profession and accountants/liquidators), users (business and unions), regulators (implementation and enforcement bodies) and representatives from government departments.  

    The ELRG’s focus will be more expert, technical, and legal rather than representative of stakeholders’ interests. Members will engage with the work programme of the ELRG and contribute to ELRG reports. 

    The Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke TD said: 

    “The ELRG will provide a valuable resource in conducting ongoing assessments of employment law to ensure our legal framework is fit for purpose. Emerging trends will be examined to ensure that our employment legislation adapts to changes in the evolving contemporary workplace.” 

    Membership of the ELRG will consist of representatives of the bodies and agencies listed in Appendix 1 below.  

    Welcoming the call for nominees and expressions of interest, Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, Emer Higgins TD said

    “The ELRG will be comprised of members with an interest and expertise in the development of employment and redundancy law. This will include members from the legal, accountancy and insolvency professions; representatives from business, unions and regulators; as well as Ministerial nominees.” 

    The legislative enactments that will be kept under review by the ELRG are listed in Appendix 2 below. 

    See: Call for Expressions of Interest – Appointment as Ministerial Nominees to the Employment Law Review Group

    APPENDIX 1 

    Nominating Body 

    1. Chairperson – a member of ELRG who is appointed by Minister to be Chairperson
    2. The Irish Business and Employers Confederation (IBEC)
    3. The Irish Small and Medium Enterprises Association (ISME)
    4. Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU)
    5. The Law Society of Ireland
    6. The Employment Bar Association
    7. Restructuring and Insolvency Ireland
    8. Department of Enterprise Trade and Employment
    9. Department of Social Protection
    10. Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth
    11. Workplace Relations Commission
    12. Labour Court
    13. The Courts Service
    14. Office of the Attorney General
    15. Chief State Solicitor’s Office
    16. Ministerial Nominees

    APPENDIX 2

    List of relevant employment and redundancy enactments 

    1. Redundancy Payments Acts 1967–2014
    2. Protection of Employment Act 1977
    3. Payment of Wages Act 1991
    4. Unfair Dismissals Acts 1977–2015
    5. Organisation of Working Time Act 1997
    6. European Communities (Protection of Employees on Transfer of Undertakings) Regulations 2003
    7. Minimum Notice and Terms of Employment Acts 1973–2005
    8. National Minimum Wage Act 2000
    9. European Communities (Protection of Employment) Regulations 2000
    10. Protection of Young Persons (Employment) Act 1996
    11. Terms of Employment (Information) Acts 1994–2014
    12. Protection of Employees (Part-Time Work) Act 2001
    13. European Communities (Protection of Employees on Transfer of Undertakings) Regulations 2003
    14. Protection of Employees (Fixed Term Work) Act 2003
    15. Employees (Provision of Information and Consultation) Act 2006 (Section 21)
    16. Protection of Employment (Exceptional Collective Redundancies and Related Matters) Act 2007 (other than section 9(1) and 9(2))
    17. Protection of Employment (Temporary Agency Work) Act 2012
    18. Employment (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2018
    19. Industrial Relations (Amendment) Act 2015
    20. Workplace Relations Act 2015
    21. European Union (Posting of Workers) Regulations 2016
    22. Registered Employment Agreements (REAs) and Sectoral Employment Orders (SEOs)
    23. Sick Pay Act 2022
    24. Payment of Wages (Amendment) (Tips and Gratuities) Act 2022
    25. Part 3 of the Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023
    26. Part 2 of Employment (Collective Redundancies and Miscellaneous Provisions) and Companies (Amendment) Act 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Second Forum of Don Youth will be held at the State University of Management

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    On October 23, 2024, the State University of Management will host the II Don Youth Forum “Don Land – Your Future”.

    The meeting will be attended by students from the Rostov region who are receiving higher education at leading universities in Moscow.

    Invited guests include:

    Rector of the State University of Management Vladimir Stroyev; Chairman of the Regional Public Organization “Fellowship of Rostovites “Donskaya Stanitsa” in Moscow, Major General, Hero of the Russian Federation Sergei Lipovoy; Deputy of the State Duma from the Rostov Region, Larisa Tutova; Deputy Chairman of the Board of the Bank “CENTER-INVEST” Alexander Dolgakov.

    The forum program will include an introduction to the community of working youth and major employers, a discussion of key investment projects, the development of the IT industry and new enterprises in the region.

    All participants will receive new contacts and opportunities to shape their career trajectory, as well as memorable eco-souvenirs.

    We are waiting for everyone on October 23 at 10:00 at the Boiling Point of the State University of Management.

    To participate, you must pre-register on the LEADER ID platform, which runs until October 20.

    Forum organizers: ROO “Fellowship of Rostovites “Donskaya Stolitsa”, Bank “CENTER-INVEST” with the support of the State University of Management.

    Don Forum Program

    Subscribe to the tg channel “Our State University” Announcement date: 10/23/2024

    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.

    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.

    The Second Forum of Don Youth will be held at the State University of Management

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Global: Gangs’stories : A glimpse of hard lives around the world

    Source: The Conversation – France – By Dennis Rodgers, Research Professor, Anthropology and Sociology, Graduate Institute – Institut de hautes études internationales et du développement (IHEID)

    Gangs and gang members arguably constitute fundamental lenses through which to think about and consider the world we live in. They need to be understood in a balanced and nuanced manner, however, that goes beyond stereotyping and vilification. For the past five years, the GANGS project, a European Research Council-funded project led by Dennis Rodgers, has been studying global gang dynamics.

    Among the project’s various activities, researchers collected 31 gang member life histories from 23 countries around the world, to help us better understand the motivations, drivers, and events that can shape gang members’ choices and trajectories. Taken together, the stories offer a panorama of triumph and defeat, of ruin and redemption, of discrimination and emancipation, and highlight the frequent persistence of human beings, even in the most difficult of circumstances. The 31 stories will be published in different forms – including as an Open Access edited volume with Bloomsbury Press, and in two journal special issues – over the coming years. In the meantime, this special series for The Conversation offers a preliminary selection, each illustrating a key issue that has emerged from GANGS project research.


    Kieran Mitton tells us about the life of Gaz, a former Sierra Leonean gang member who became a poet and then a farmer. His remarkable trajectory is a testament to the way that gangster lives are by no means deterministic and that opportunities to leave the gang and change can present themselves in all sorts of ways at different moments in time.

    Ellen Van Damme offers us a portrait of Jennifer, the first female Honduran gang leader. Her story illustrates the frequently gendered nature of gangs, and the way that machismo and patriarchy constrain Jennifer’s life, even as a gang leader, highlighting the frequently fundamentally masculine essence of street gangs.

    Sally Atkinson-Sheppard worked closely with Sharif, who 10 years ago was her research assistant, to write the story of his journey from gang member in war-torn Bangladesh to human rights worker and advocate for street children’s rights today. His story is one of overcoming exceptional adversity and drawing on his past experiences to do good in the world today.

    Steffen Jensen recounts the story of Marwan, whose life is in many ways a reflection of contemporary South African history, as he has had to navigate the violence of apartheid, prison, the Cape Flat drug wars, and more. Central to his narrative are the binary notions of damnation and redemption, with gangs frequently the sources of both at different points in his life, highlighting the different ways in which they can influence life trajectories.

    Alistair Fraser and Angela Bartie present a portrait of 70-year-old Danny, a retired Glaswegian businessman who was a gang member in his youth, and that is based, uniquely, on interviews carried out over a 50-year period, in 1969, 2011, and 2022. They trace his changing self-reflexion about his past, highlighting how this mirrors the broader transformation of Glasgow from a “Mean City” in the 1950s to a thriving metropolis that was Europe’s Capital of Culture in 1990.

    From a very young age, Soraya was involved in drug trafficking in the barrio Luis Fanor Hernández, a poor neighbourhood in Managua, the capital of Nicaragua, where Dennis Rodgers has worked for over 20 years. Known locally as “la Reina del Sur” (“the Queen of the South”), her story shows how rather than being empowering, her participation in the drugs trade reinforced forms of macho violence and patriarchal dynamics of domination.

    Dennis Rodgers received an Advanced Grant (no. 787935) from the European Research Council (https://erc.europa.eu) for a project on “Gangs, Gangsters, and Ganglands: Towards a Global Comparative Ethnography” (GANGS).

    ref. Gangs’stories : A glimpse of hard lives around the world – https://theconversation.com/gangsstories-a-glimpse-of-hard-lives-around-the-world-227166

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to breast cancer in users of Levonorgestrel-Releasing Intrauterine Systems

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in JAMA looks at the use of Levonorgestrel-Releasing Intrauterine Systems and breast cancer risk. 

    Dr Channa Jayasena, Reader in Reproductive Endocrinology, Imperial College London, said:

    The Levonorgestrel-Releasing Intrauterine Systems (LNG-IUS) is a highly effective form of contraceptive for women. Unlike contraceptive pills, LNG-IUS releases a progesterone-like hormone directly into the womb.  This means that levels of the hormone are much lower than when you take it as a tablet. It is well known that prolonged use of the contraceptive pill slightly increases breast cancer risk. However, we have always assumed that the LNG-IUS would not increase breast cancer risk due to the much lower levels of hormone exposure to the whole body. The results of this study are therefore highly unexpected. A large population of women taking LNG-IUS was compared with a similar sized population of women not taking any contraceptive medication. While the researchers tried to make sure that the two populations of women were matched for things like age, weight and education, other behaviours like smoking have not been measured. So, women not taking contraceptive medication may have been healthier in other ways compared to the LNG-IUS group.

    The study found that there were 14 extra cases of breast cancer per 10,000 women in the group using LNG-IUS compared to those not using contraceptive medication. It is difficult to tell how this compares with taking the contraceptive pill which has been studied in different populations. It is unfortunate that this study did not compare breast cancer risk between the LNG-IUS and oral contraceptive pill. But it is important that smoking, alcohol and obesity are much more important risk factors for breast cancer than contraceptive medications.

    We always need to be vigilant to new health risks from medical treatments, and this is no exception. My advice for women is that breast cancer risk caused by LNG-IUS is not established but warrants a closer look.”

    Dr Mangesh Thorat, Honorary Reader in Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London and Consultant Breast Surgeon, Homerton University Hospital, Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), said:

    “This new large Danish study adds to the existing literature evaluating the risk of breast cancer in women using hormonal forms of contraception. The study specifically investigated the use of hormonal intrauterine devices, commonly known as hormonal coils, for example – Mirena coil. Similar to the British study (Fitzpatrick and colleagues) published last year, this study shows a small increase in the risk of breast cancer associated with the use of such coils. The existing evidence suggests that the increase in the risk is similar to that with oral contraceptive use. It is worth noting that this association has been known for at least a few years and a broad consensus exists among the medical fraternity that the overall benefits of hormonal contraception outweigh the harms like such small increase in the risk of developing breast cancer. Furthermore, as the baseline risk of breast cancer is lower in younger individuals, any increase in the risk associated with the use of hormonal coil is also smaller. The risk increases with increasing age and it is reasonable for women near 40 years of age to have a discussion with their healthcare practitioner regarding non-hormonal modes of contraception.”

    Breast Cancer in Users of Levonorgestrel-Releasing Intrauterine Systems’ by Mørch et al. was published in JAMA at 16:00 UK time on Wednesday 16th October 2024. 

    DOI: 10.1001/jama.2024.18575

    Declared interests

    Dr Channa Jayasena: “No Conflicts to Declare”

    Dr Mangesh Thorat: “No Conflicts to Declare”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO Defence Ministers to advance work on deterrence and defence, support to Ukraine and global partnerships

    Source: NATO

    As NATO Defence Ministers prepare to meet at NATO Headquarters in Brussels on Thursday and Friday (17-18 October 2024), Secretary General Mark Rutte previewed the expected outcomes of the meeting in a press conference at NATO Headquarters.

    Allies need “to move further and faster to meet the growing threats we face”, he explained, adding that ”this requires more forces, capabilities and investment to meet the ambitious targets set by our defence plans.” Mr Rutte listed expanded defence industrial capacity, more robust supply chains and new technologies as critical to ensuring the Alliance remains resilient across all domains. He said he expected Ministers to greenlight a new NATO initiative to improve standardisation, explaining that “better implementation of standards can help reduce the cost of defence procurement, so this is essential work for NATO.”
     
    The Secretary General reaffirmed that NATO stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Ukraine, both now and into the future. NATO Defence Ministers will meet with their Ukrainian counterpart, Rustem Umerov in the NATO-Ukraine Council on Thursday evening to discuss the battlefield situation and Ukraine’s most urgent needs. Mr Rutte indicated that work is well on track both to set up the new NATO command in Wiesbaden to coordinate security assistance and training for Ukraine, and to deliver on the pledge of 40 billion euros in military aid for Ukraine. He announced that “NATO Allies provided 20.9 billion euros in military assistance to Ukraine during the first half of 2024 and Allies are on track to meet their commitments for the rest of the year”, adding that “the message is clear: NATO is delivering for Ukraine, and we will continue to do so.”
     
    The Defence Ministers’ meeting will also be an opportunity to exchange views on the current global security situation with NATO’s close partners in the Indo-Pacific and with the European Union. For the first time, Defence Ministers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand and the Republic of Korea are joining a NATO Defence Ministers’ meeting. “In this more interconnected world, it is vital that we tackle our shared security challenges together” the Secretary General concluded.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Met detectives secure justice following the murder of a teenager in Dagenham

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Four men have been jailed for a total of 91 years after being found guilty of fatally stabbing an 18-year-old in Dagenham thanks to the work of dedicated Met officers.

    Wazabakana Kukabu, known as Jordan to his loved ones, was tragically murdered last year (May 2023).

    At the Old Bailey on Tuesday, 15 October, Michael Tommy-Mbogba, 21 (13.12.02) of Arkwrights, Harlow was sentenced to 29 years. Toulwalase Odunewu, 18 (22.10.05) of Angel Way, Romford was also sentenced to 23 yea

    rs in prison.

    A 16-year-old boy – who cannot be named for legal reasons – was also sentenced to 16 years for the same murder, while a 17-year-old – who also cannot be named – was sentenced to 23 years.

    Detective Chief Inspector Laura Semple, who led the investigation, said: “I want to extend our deepest condolences to Jordan’s family and those who knew him – our thoughts very much remain with them today.

    “I would also like to thank those witnesses who came forward and provided crucial evidence during the trial, as well as acknowledge the incredible efforts of those Met officers and other emergency service staff who tried so desperately to save Jordan’s life.

    “Knife crime has a devastating impact on our communities and rips families apart – that’s why we’re committed to doing everything in our power to work with partners and charities, such as the Ben Kinsella Trust, to protect young people and make London safer.”

    At around 23:45hrs on Friday, 5 May 2023, Jordan and his friend drove to Dagenham Heathway station, where they parked their car. The four defendants were already nearby and moved towards the vehicle brandishing machetes. One of the defendants stabbed Jordan in the chest while he sat in the back seat.

    He managed to sprint away and stop a passing car for help, but quickly collapsed on the road.

    Police officers on patrol nearby provided CPR but Jordan was sadly pronounced dead a short time later.

    Detectives immediately launched an investigation and pieced together CCTV of the attack and the defendants leaving the scene. They identified witnesses as part of the investigation, who came forward and supplied crucial evidence.

    One explained that he had seen the defendants sitting on the top deck of a bus after the murder re-enacting the fatal attack they had just carried out.

    Met search teams found a blood-stained knife close to the scene, which was tested and matched to Tommy-Mbogba. Fingerprints were also found in a taxi, which the group had used later that night.

    The 17-year-old boy was also found guilty of the attempted murder of Jordan’s friend, while the other three defendants were found guilty of Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) against the same victim.

    All were also found guilty of a separate incident of violent disorder, which had taken place two days previously.

    In a statement Jordan’s father said: “I want to take this opportunity to thank the judge, the prosecution team and the investigation team for all the hard work. My son possessed beauty both inside and out. He had a pure heart and was so gentle he would not harm anyone, yet his life was taken so prematurely. I can only visit Jordan’s grave and mourn the loss of his beautiful presence to this world.”

    In a statement Jordan’s mother said: “Words will never explain the pain and devastation I have writing this. Jordan has a family who love him so much and you took my precious son away from us. He always showed his whole family and everyone who knew him love and affection.”

    If you are concerned about knife crime or know somebody who carries a weapon, has been a victim or is at risk of becoming a victim – please visit the Crimestoppers website or the Met’s ‘Stop Knife Crime’ web pages.

    Note to Editors

    There is no video footage of the incident available for release at the request of Jordan’s family.

    All four defendants were previously found guilty at a trial at Old Bailey on Monday, 17 June 2024.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: INTERPOL operation nets terror suspects, cash and illegal weapons

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    16 October 2024

    LYON, France – An INTERPOL counter-terrorism operation to strengthen border security has enabled millions of crosschecks against international databases, resulting in 66 arrests, significant seizures and the identification of 81 individuals subject to INTERPOL notices and diffusions.
    Operation Neptune VI brought together law enforcement agencies from 14 countries with the goal of bolstering security measures and responses around the maritime routes across the Mediterranean Sea, as well as in airports and at land borders in the participating countries.
    The initiative, carried out in cooperation with WCO, FRONTEX and Europol, equipped teams with handheld devices and gave local authorities expanded access to INTERPOL databases.
    The operation focused on identifying and analysing the movement patterns of Foreign Terrorist Fighters and people with links to terrorism as well as criminal groups responsible for cross-border crimes such as drug trafficking, weapons smuggling and human trafficking.
    During Neptune VI, which ran for approximately two weeks in each country, officers on the ground also checked INTERPOL records of stolen vehicles and lost or stolen travel documents, which are both key assets for facilitating terrorist funding and mobility.
    By the end of the operation on 16 September 2024, more than 16 million crosschecks had been made against the various INTERPOL databases, generating 187 ‘hits’.
    A dozen arrests were made on the basis of INTERPOL Red Notices. Another 54 people were apprehended under national arrest warrants and for crimes detected at the border, including drugs and fraud offenses as well as the smuggling of gold, cash and weapons.

    Cyprus: Seizure displayed during Operation Neptune VI

    France: Documents being verified at the border

    France: Millions of database crosschecks were made during the international operation

    Iraq: Document verification during Operation Neptune VI

    Albania: The operation brought together law enforcement agencies from 14 countries

    Albania: Vehicle undercarriage check

    Albania: K9 inspection

    Algeria: Document inspection during Operation Neptune VI

    Algeria: Document check

    Bulgaria: The operation aimed to strengthen border security

    Red and Blue Notices to catch and track terror suspects

    One suspect detained as part of the operation was the subject of a Red Notice for a terror attack carried out 23 years ago on a church in Pakistan. The fugitive is being held by local authorities as extradition procedures are carried out.
    In another case, airport border police blocked entry to an individual who was the subject of an INTERPOL Blue Diffusion, issued in 2015.  The person had previously travelled to join ISIS through a European country.
    In contrast to a Red Notice which can form the basis for provisional arrest, a Blue Notice or diffusion is a request between INTERPOL member countries to collect additional information about a person’s identity, location or activities, in relation to a criminal investigation. During the Neptune VI operation, 29 subjects of Blue Notices and Diffusions were identified, allowing officers to track individuals with links to terrorism.

    In Montenegro, border police detained a traveller suspected of using a counterfeit passport. Utilizing INTERPOL’s secure global police communications system (I-24/7), they verified the document with the issuing authorities, confirming it was a forgery. It was also discovered that the suspect was wanted for attempted murder. A Red Notice was promptly issued, requesting the suspect’s arrest and extradition.

    Strengthened border controls lead to important seizures

    The arrests made during Neptune VI were just one facet of the operation’s broad success in strengthening border control. The initiative yielded significant seizures, including EUR 549,000 in undeclared cash, gold worth EUR 10 million, 25 kilograms of cannabis, 35 stolen vehicles, and several illegal rifles and ammunition.
    Additionally, Bulgarian border officials recovered two Glock pistols in the possession of an individual travelling with a fraudulent ID card. Notably, the pistol frames had been purchased as components in Central Europe, while the other parts had been falsely declared as exported to North America.

    Bulgaria: Two Glock pistols were seized

    Bulgaria: Database checking in progress

    Morocco: K9 Inspection during Operation Neptune VI

    Portugal: Document verification

    Portugal: The operation generated 187 ‘hits’ on INTERPOL databases

    Spain: A vehicle check point

    Spain: Overall 66 people were apprehended as part of Operation Neptune VI

    Spain: INTERPOL equipped local police with access to international databases

    Italy: The operation focused on identifying people with links to terrorism and cross-border crimes

    Italy: Inspection team carries out checks

    Italy: A search in progress

    Montenegro: K9 inspection of vehicles at border

    Montenegro: K9 vehicle inspection

    Morocco: Officers have access to INTERPOL’s international databases

    Greg Hinds, INTERPOL’s Counter-Terrorism Director said:
    “By working together and equipping law enforcement agencies with the frontline tools they need, we can disrupt the activities of terrorists and criminals and bring them to justice. The operation’s results demonstrate the importance of sharing intelligence and best practices among countries to combat the evolving threats of terrorism and organized crime.”
    Neptune VI is funded by Global Affairs Canada, WCO and Frontex.

    Participating countries:

    Albania, Algeria, Bulgaria, Cyprus, France, Iraq, Italy, Jordan, Lebanon, Montenegro, Morocco, Portugal, Spain, and Tunisia.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Staff Reaches Staff-Level Agreement with Serbia on the Fourth Review under the Stand-By Arrangement and on a 36-Month Policy Coordination Instrument Request

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    October 16, 2024

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

    • The Serbian authorities and IMF staff reached staff-level agreement on the fourth and final review under the Stand-By Arrangement (SBA) and on a successor 36-month Policy Coordination Instrument (PCI) request. The PCI is a non-financing instrument designed to support strong economic policies. The agreement is subject to approval by the IMF Executive Board and is expected to be considered by the Board in December 2024.
    • Macroeconomic outcomes in Serbia remain strong. Growth and the labor market are robust, and inflation has fallen. Foreign exchange reserves are at a record high, and the public debt burden continues to decline.
    • Under the PCI, Serbia commits to fiscal deficits not exceeding 3.0 percent of GDP over 2025-27, to further prioritize spending in case of fiscal shocks, and to keep public wage and pension increases aligned with its fiscal rules. The PCI will balance Serbia’s public investment and social expenditure needs with continued fiscal discipline to support sustainable growth while keeping public debt on a downward path.

    Washington, DC: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission, led by Donal McGettigan, met with the Serbian authorities during October 3-15, 2024, to discuss performance under Serbia’s Stand-By Arrangement (SBA) and the authorities’ request for a successor 36-month Policy Coordination Instrument (PCI) that will run from December 2024 to December 2027. The PCI is a non-financing instrument designed to support strong economic policies. At the conclusion of the mission, Mr. McGettigan issued the following statement:

    “I am pleased to announce that the Serbian authorities and the IMF team have reached staff-level agreement on the conclusion of the fourth and final review under the SBA and on a successor 36-month PCI.

    “The two-year SBA was approved by the IMF Executive Board in December 2022. It supported Serbia in navigating a period of major economic uncertainty and energy price volatility. Under the SBA, Serbia successfully implemented macroeconomic policies that underpinned external and fiscal sustainability and that rebuilt buffers to deal with future shocks. Serbia has increased and modernized its energy tariffs and has initiated corporate restructuring at the electricity provider EPS to improve the financial sustainability and efficiency of the energy sector. Serbia also made good progress on important fiscal structural reforms and advanced efforts to improve state-owned enterprise (SOE) governance.

    “Reflecting the success of the economic program supported by the SBA, and in view of Serbia’s commitment to continued strong economic policies, Serbia was awarded an investment grade credit rating for the first time, by S&P Global Ratings, in October 2024.

     “Serbia’s macroeconomic outcomes in 2024 are impressive. We project growth to reach 3.9 percent in 2024 and to increase to around 4¼ percent over the coming years. Headline inflation has returned to the National Bank of Serbia’s target band, supported by tighter monetary policy and easing energy and food prices, but core inflation remains elevated.

    “The fiscal deficit is set to increase to 2.7 percent of GDP in 2024, to help fund additional infrastructure, social, and defense spending needs.  Based on strong fiscal revenue performance, robust economic growth, and a recent upward GDP revision, public debt is expected to fall to about 48 percent of GDP by end-2024.

    “As domestic demand picks up, and Serbia’s public investment drive continues, the current account deficit is projected to widen in 2024 and to increase further over the medium term. Continued strong FDI inflows are, however, expected to more than offset the current account deficit over the coming years and to allow for ongoing reserve accumulation. The financial sector is well-capitalized and liquid.

    “Key risks to Serbia’s economic outlook include: foreign demand, FDI and commodity price outlooks that are subject to uncertainty and risks, deepening geoeconomic fragmentation, and the exposure of agricultural output and economic activity to climate change and extreme weather events.

    “Serbia therefore needs ample buffers against uncertainties and risks. Encouragingly, foreign exchange reserves and government deposits are high, public debt and external debt are sustainable, and the banking system is strong. Continued prudent polices provide an additional important buffer. 

    “Serbia’s program performance under the SBA remains strong. All relevant quantitative and standard continuous performance criteria have been met, as have most indicative targets and structural benchmarks. Thanks to progress made under the SBA, Serbia intends to continue to treat the SBA, set to expire in December 2024, as precautionary.

    “To continue leveraging IMF support for Serbia’s economic policies, the Serbian authorities and IMF staff also reached an agreement on medium-term macroeconomic and financial policies under a successor 36-month Policy Coordination Instrument (PCI) that will run from December 2024 to December 2027. The PCI will support Serbia in credibly maintaining fiscal discipline while making room for spending on public investment and other essential items. The PCI will also help Serbia advance its ongoing ambitious structural reform agenda, focused on fiscal, SOE, and energy reforms.

    “Under the PCI, the Serbian authorities commit to keeping the annual overall fiscal deficit at no more than 3.0 percent of GDP over 2025-27. Absent large adverse shocks, this would be consistent with an ongoing decline in the public debt burden. To achieve this core macroeconomic objective, the authorities commit to adhere to their special fiscal rules on public wages and pensions which they adopted in 2022, and to review options for rationalizing and monitoring expenditure items that grew rapidly in 2024. In the event of additional fiscal spending pressures, the authorities commit to further prioritizing public spending.

    “The PCI will help the authorities improve public financial management, public investment management, fiscal risk management, fiscal transparency, and public workforce and pension planning. It will also leverage extensive IMF technical assistance to resolve staffing challenges in the tax administration, an urgent and macro-critical priority. It will assist the authorities in refining and operationalizing the energy investment plan, improving the financial sustainability of energy SOEs, and preparing Serbia for the introduction of the EU carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM). Finally, the PCI will aid the authorities with important and complex SOE governance reforms, including in the energy sector.

    “The IMF team would like to thank all their counterparts for the open and constructive discussions.”

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Camila Perez

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

    @IMFSpokesperson

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2024/10/15/pr-24371-serbia-imf-agreement-4th-rev-arrangement-36mo-policy-coordination-instrument

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Motor insurance

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Cross-government taskforce created to evaluate the impact of increased insurance costs on consumers and industry.

    Today (16 October 2024) the Economic Secretary to the Treasury and I will co-chair the first meeting of a new cross-government taskforce on motor insurance.

    Motor insurance is an essential, not a luxury. It is vital to accessing economic opportunities and this government is committed to ensuring drivers are treated fairly.

    This government is committed to tackling increases in motor insurance premiums – which have risen at far higher rates in the UK than in other comparable economies. While motor insurance is a complex market, the government wants to ensure that it works well for the drivers it serves.

    The taskforce, which will be attended by ministers from several departments and by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), has a strategic remit to set the direction for government policy in this area. It will identify the drivers behind rising premiums and will agree short-term and long-term actions for departments that can contribute to stabilising or reducing premiums, while maintaining appropriate levels of cover.

    The taskforce will evaluate the impact of increased insurance costs on consumers and the insurance industry, including how this impacts different demographics, geographies and communities.

    Whilst all drivers have struggled with rising costs, it is important to recognise the particular pressures on specific groups that face barriers to accessing fair and affordable motor insurance. This includes ethnic minorities, those on lower incomes, and elderly and young drivers. This taskforce will therefore have an additional focus on those groups.

    The taskforce’s first meeting will also be attended by representatives from the motor and insurance industries, consumer champions and other relevant groups.

    Improving access to appropriate and affordable insurance is key to supporting people’s financial resilience, wellbeing and making sure they can benefit fully from this government’s wider economic agenda of inclusive growth and breaking down the barriers to opportunities. I look forward to updating the House on the taskforce’s progress on these matters in the coming months.

    Updates to this page

    Published 16 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Polish pals embrace Derry’s Halloween spirit

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Polish pals embrace Derry’s Halloween spirit

    16 October 2024

    Derry’s Halloween celebrations have made such an impression on some Polish pals now living in Northern Ireland that they are preparing to take part in the parade for the eighth time.
    Eliot Von Feczko and Jerzy Feczko who now live in Donaghcloney, Co Down, first heard about Derry’s legendary Halloween celebrations via Facebook, and nine years ago decided to check out the fun for themselves.
    Eliot explained, “Halloween in Poland is very different to the way it is celebrated in Northern Ireland. It is culturally a very different event, in Poland our local celebrations are about memories of people who are no longer with us, but in Derry it is all about fun and enjoyment.
    “We first heard about Derry via Facebook and around nine years ago we decided to come and check it out for ourselves. We were so impressed that we decided to speak with the organisers and see how we could get more involved the following year. Since then, we have attended and taken part in the parade every year, apart from during the pandemic. We really love being part of something so special.”
    Determined to turn heads as they take part in the parade Eliot and Jerzy’s costumes are truly bespoke. With over 20 years’ experience working with arts and crafts their costumes are all designed and hand-made by Eilot.
    Jerzy explained, “This year the theme for our costumes is druids from Irish/Scandinavian folklore, with some modernisation. “We try and have a different costume every year. All the ideas and inspiration are the result of Eliot’s imagination and she handmakes our costumes every year. She’s a very creative individual so she doesn’t like to copy anyone else’s ideas.
    “It all depends on the individual costume, but each one can take up to 100 working hours as Eilot is making everything from scratch. All birds, feathers, flowers etc are hand stitched, she’s not using glue or any quick fix solutions. Our masks are handmade as well, built on real impressions of our faces so that they fit perfectly.
    “We also use Eilot’s artwork to decorate our home, so it’s pretty much Halloween all year round,” added Jerzy.
    With their costumes well in hand the friends are on the countdown to their favourite time of year, Eliot added, “Derry is an amazing place at Halloween, all the fabulous costumes, the performances, the parade… we really love the spirit and energy of the city at this time of year. Everyone gets really involved, so many people gathering together to create this spectacular event. We can’t wait to take part again this year. Give us a wave if you see us in the parade and have a great Halloween everyone,” she added.
    The Derry Halloween festival is led by Derry City and Strabane District Council, supported by Tourism Northern Ireland and The Executive Office, with additional support from Ulster University and Air Coach.
    Download the Awakening the Walled City Trail at derryhalloween.com And don’t forget that Derry Halloween is also on WhatsApp! Get the latest updates, exclusive sneak peeks, and instant info right on your phone. Don’t miss any of the spooky surprises in store! https://bit.ly/halloweenwhatsapp

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Bovine TB: authorisation for supplementary badger control in 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Licences and conditions relating to licensed actions on or around protected sites.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    Area 45 – Derbyshire licence for supplementary badger control

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    Area 46 – Gloucestershire licence for supplementary badger control

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    Area 48 – Leicestershire licence for supplementary badger control

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    Area 51 – Somerset licence for supplementary badger control

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    Area 53 – Wiltshire licence for supplementary badger control

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    Annex B: Provisions relating to licensed actions on or around protected sites in Avon

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    Annex B: Provisions relating to licensed actions on or around protected sites in Berkshire and West Berkshire

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    Annex B: Provisions relating to licensed actions on or around protected sites in Cheshire and Merseyside

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    Annex B: Provisions relating to licensed actions on or around protected sites in Cornwall

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    Annex B: Provisions relating to licensed actions on or around protected sites in Derbyshire

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    Annex B: Provisions relating to licensed actions on or around protected sites in Devon

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    Annex B: Provisions relating to licensed actions on or around protected sites in Dorset

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    Annex B: Provisions relating to licensed actions on or around protected sites in Gloucestershire

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    Annex B: Provisions relating to licensed actions on or around protected sites in Greater Manchester

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    Annex B: Provisions relating to licensed actions on or around protected sites in Hampshire

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    Annex B: Provisions relating to licensed actions on or around protected sites in Herefordshire

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    Annex B: Provisions relating to licensed actions on or around protected sites in Leicestershire

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    Annex B: Provisions relating to licensed actions on or around protected sites in Lincolnshire

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    Annex B: Provisions relating to licensed actions on or around protected sites in Nottinghamshire

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    Annex B: Provisions relating to licensed actions on or around protected sites in Oxfordshire

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    Annex B: Provisions relating to licensed actions on or around protected sites in Shropshire

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    Annex B: Provisions relating to licensed actions on or around protected sites in Somerset

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    Annex B: Provisions relating to licensed actions on or around protected sites in Staffordshire

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    Annex B: Provisions relating to licensed actions on or around protected sites in Warwickshire

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    Annex B: Provisions relating to licensed actions on or around protected sites in Wiltshire

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    Annex B: Provisions relating to licensed actions on or around protected sites in Worcestershire

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    Details

    Natural England has licensed and authorised 9 new supplementary badger control areas to begin operations in 2024. It has also authorised the licence holders to resume operations in 17 existing supplementary badger control areas in 2024. Licence holders met all the criteria specified in Defra’s guidance to Natural England, dated May 2021.

    Table 1: Supplementary control areas authorised in 2024

    1 June is the earliest possible date for the start of operations and is the start of the open season.

    Area number and county Minimum number Maximum number Authorisation date Year of operations
    Area 4 – Cornwall 131 380 16 May 2024 Year 5
    Area 5 – Cornwall 152 461 16 May 2024 Year 5
    Area 6 – Devon 294 1173 16 May 2024 Year 5
    Area 7 – Devon 145 455 16 May 2024 Year 5
    Area 8 – Dorset 475 1685 16 May 2024 Year 5
    Area 9 – Gloucestershire 219 1118 16 May 2024 Year 5
    Area 33 – Avon 74 707 16 May 2024 Year 2
    Area 34 – Cheshire 117 1124 16 May 2024 Year 2
    Area 35 – Cornwall 263 1897 16 May 2024 Year 2
    Area 36 – Staffordshire 100 648 16 May 2024 Year 2
    Area 37 – Devon 193 985 16 May 2024 Year 2
    Area 38 – Devon 173 1316 16 May 2024 Year 2
    Area 39 – Dorset 51 484 16 May 2024 Year 2
    Area 40 – Herefordshire 281 1253 16 May 2024 Year 2
    Area 41 – Staffordshire 351 809 16 May 2024 Year 2
    Area 42 – Wiltshire 19 2550 16 May 2024 Year 2
    Area 43 – Wiltshire 64 1005 16 May 2024 Year 2
    Area 45 – Derbyshire 425 1675 16 May 2024 Year 1
    Area 46 – Gloucestershire 54 284 16 May 2024 Year 1
    Area 47 – Herefordshire 284 1236 16 May 2024 Year 1
    Area 48 – Leicestershire 82 432 16 May 2024 Year 1
    Area 49 – Oxfordshire 128 621 16 May 2024 Year 1
    Area 50 – Shropshire 256 2382 16 May 2024 Year 1
    Area 51 – Somerset 56 1746 16 May 2024 Year 1
    Area 52 – Warwickshire 200 1044 16 May 2024 Year 1
    Area 53 – Wiltshire 64 329 16 May 2024 Year 1

    The licence holder will decide the start date for control operations within this period. Licence holders carry out operations under a licence which allows badger control to take place in the licensed control area every year between 1 June and 31 January inclusive.

    Natural England has confirmed to the licence holders the minimum and maximum numbers of badgers they can remove.

    Protected sites listed in the Annex Bs are not necessarily part of any active operations. These can and will only occur on protected sites where the landowner or occupier has granted permission.

    The licences only permit badger control to take place outside these closed seasons:

    • controlled shooting – 1 February to 31 May
    • cage-trapping and shooting – 1 December to 31 May

    Updates to this page

    Published 16 October 2024

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press Release – Alderney Budget 2025 Wednesday 16 October 2024

    Source: Channel Islands – States of Alderney

    Press Release

    Date:  16th October 2024

    Alderney balances the books despite a fragile economy

    Alderney’s senior politician presented a balanced budget to the States today (October 16th) but he warned Members that the Island was “living beyond its means”.

    Policy & Finance Chair Nigel Vooght announced a revised £400,000 surplus in this year’s forecast which allowed the States to approve a 2025 Budget with no increases in Alderney Property Tax (APT) or Water Rates.

    He told the States meeting:

    “Despite delivering this balanced budget, we must be conscious of the simple fact that Alderney is living beyond its means as the cost of transferred services such as healthcare, education, the airport and emergency services exceed the taxes paid to the Bailiwick to help to pay for these. Despite the likelihood that income tax may increase, these services cost more than we contribute to the Guernsey Treasury.

    “The 1948 agreement was set up post-war when Alderney needed expertise and resources in return for which we entered a fiscal union which initially resulted in us producing a surplus of revenue versus the cost of transferred services. This is not the case today.

    “We are grateful to Guernsey for these transferred services but we must be mindful that this is not a sustainable position, especially given the financial difficulties Guernsey faces. Although we are a separate jurisdiction, we are in a fiscal union and partnership with Guernsey and must look for ways to grow our economy to generate new revenue streams.”

    The immediate priority is a refurbished runway and improved air connectivity which will help make Alderney more attractive as a place to live and work, thus growing the economy and attracting inward investment. In the medium term, seeking new sustainable economic growth that will create revenue streams.

    Key points in the 2025 Budget approved by the States include:

    ·         No increase to APT in 2025

    ·         Fuel Duty to be consistent with the States of Guernsey rate for 2025

    ·         Document Duty pegged at 2024 levels

    ·         No increase to Water Rates which went up marginally in 2024

    An increase in investment interest and higher than expected returns from Document Duty and Property Transfer duties were key factors contributing to a revised £400,000 surplus for this year, despite an increase in the cost of services.

    However, the budget for next year indicates a more modest “break even” surplus of £29,000 as operational costs are budgeted to increase by £354,000 compared with 2024, accounting for almost all of expected operating income and taxation.

    Mr Vooght explained:

    “Alderney is reliant on limited income streams such as APT, Fuel Duty, and Document Duty and this needs to be taken into consideration for future budgets and how we manage growing costs. Efforts to improve efficiency and reduce costs across various departments is being addressed with all budget holders.”

    Meanwhile, the States’ Capital Programme is mainly funded by Alderney Gambling Control Commission (AGCC) surpluses, together with income from asset sales. Estimated AGCC gross distribution for 2025 is expected to be in the region of £1.9M, a decrease in the income from 2024 which has been maintained at £2.2M.

    There is no cash allocation received from the States of Guernsey in respect of Capital funding.

    Mr Vooght concluded:

    “While the budget demonstrates a responsible financial approach, it’s essential to remain vigilant about potential risks and uncertainties. Factors such as geopolitical and economic fluctuations, changes in government policies and unforeseen expenses could impact future budgets.

    “Recommendations for future consideration will include exploring alternative revenue sources to diversify the States’ income streams and reduce reliance on a few key taxes. We also need to continue to review and optimise operational costs to identify areas for further efficiency gains.”

    His report paid tribute to the Head of Finance, Liz Maurice, supported by the Treasury team as well as budget holders for their work involved in preparing the Budget.

    Ends

    States of Alderney media enquiries:Alistair.Forrest2@gov.gg

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The forum “Advanced digital and production technologies” has started at the Polytechnic University

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    On October 15, SPbPU opened the VI International Forum “Advanced Digital and Manufacturing Technologies”. The key topic of the forum is the development and application of advanced digital and manufacturing technologies as the basis for Russia’s technological leadership. The business program includes events dedicated to the most pressing topics of the national technological agenda.

    Over the course of two days, leading experts will discuss the specifics of the development of the unmanned aircraft systems industry in Russia, trends and potential of domestic engineering software, the use of digital twin technology and new materials in industry, the advantages of seamless engineering education: “school — college — university — industry”, the possibilities of university technological entrepreneurship, as well as the specifics of ensuring legal protection and use of intellectual property and many other issues.

    The organizers of the annual expert event are the structural divisions of the country’s leading technical university, which are the basis of the university’s technological development ecosystem. The forum is held with the support of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation within the framework of the national project “Science and Universities”, the federal project “Advanced Engineering Schools”.

    The central event of the first day was the plenary session. It was attended by representatives of government agencies, development institutes, universities and leading enterprises in the high-tech industry.

    First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation on Economic Policy Denis Kravchenko, Rector of the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI Vladimir Shevchenko, Deputy Chairman of the Council for the Development of the Digital Economy under the Federation Council of the Russian Federation Artem Sheikin, Director for Innovative Development of PJSC UEC-Saturn Dmitry Ivanov, Director of Science of PJSC Gazprom Neft Mars Khasanov became speakers of the session. The moderator of the event was Vice-Governor of St. Petersburg Vladimir Knyaginin.

    A video address by the Minister of Science and Higher Education Valery Falkov opened the welcoming part. Valery Nikolaevich emphasized the importance of the forum as a platform for discussing the current agenda for the development of advanced digital and production technologies: The forum has acquired special significance in the context of solving the problems of achieving technological leadership in Russia. In order for these problems to be solved as quickly and efficiently as possible, the Ministry of Science and Higher Education is launching new projects for more effective interaction between universities and businesses. One of these projects is the Advanced Engineering School. It has proven its effectiveness precisely due to the close interaction of universities with companies. We are pleased to inform you that you will be presented with the positive experience and developments of one of the best advanced engineering schools – the school of the St. Petersburg Polytechnic University “Digital Engineering”. Specialists will tell you about new effective solutions and experience in the development and implementation of breakthrough technologies, as well as how to prepare a new generation of engineers.

    On behalf of the Polytechnic University, the Rector of SPbPU, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Andrey Rudskoy welcomed the forum participants: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University has always implemented a practice-oriented educational model aimed at fast and effective results for industry. We interact very closely with the industry. St. Petersburg Polytechnic University is a flagship university of PJSC Gazprom Neft, and among the university’s strategic partners are the state corporations Rosatom and Rostec, PJSC Severstal and other major enterprises that are systemically important for their industries. Representatives of many of them will participate in our forum as experts and speakers. The forum “Advanced Digital and Manufacturing Technologies” is a unique opportunity for direct communication, discussion of the most pressing issues on the educational, industrial, and technological agenda.

    After this, the Vice-Governor of St. Petersburg Vladimir Knyaginin moved on to the main issues on the agenda of the plenary session.

    Over the five years of its existence, the International Forum “Advanced Digital and Manufacturing Technologies” has become an authoritative platform for discussing current challenges and tasks. It is important that the organizer of this large-scale event is the Polytechnic University, which is one of the leaders in technical education and engineering sciences, not only in Russia, but also in the world. On the basis of the university, with the support of the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia and the Government of St. Petersburg, significant initiatives are being implemented aimed at the innovative development of our state and achieving its technological leadership, – Vladimir Nikolaevich emphasized.

    Elena Druzhinina, Managing Director for Science and Business Cooperation at the Rostec State Corporation, presented the view of a participant in the real sector of the economy on the scientific, technological and educational agenda of the forum.

    The St. Petersburg Polytechnic University and Rostec enterprises have been building various forms of interaction for a long time. We are ready to go further and create new forms of cooperation between science and business with the university. For example, the creation of a research and production association is a topic that is currently being actively discussed in this context. Also, the head of the Rostec State Corporation Sergey Chemezov supported the idea of creating an industrial postgraduate program, – concluded Elena Druzhinina.

    First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Economic Policy Denis Kravchenko supported the thesis on the need to expand cooperation between educational institutions and high-tech enterprises: I would like to emphasize the importance of close work on the part of the management of educational institutions and future employers in terms of equipping educational institutions and training students in working with domestic application software on real production equipment.

    Vice-Rector for Digital Transformation of SPbPU Alexey Borovkov highlighted the approaches applied to the transformation of engineering education in his report and noted the dynamic growth of interest in advanced digital and production technologies, in particular, in the technology of digital twins. As well as in modern cross-industry platform solutions from industrial enterprises and government agencies: Digital twin technology is at the forefront, meeting the goal of achieving technological leadership, which consists in the superiority of technologies and products in key parameters over foreign analogues. The focus on technological leadership has pushed industries and the state to standardize and regulate those areas that were previously very cautiously discussed by the expert community. In recent years, we have seen how almost the same notes of our lectures with the terminology of advanced digital and production technologies are approved in regulatory documents, consolidating the scientific and technological groundwork formed by the ecosystem of technological development of SPbPU over many years.

    Thus, the speaker noted the adoption of the national standard GOST R 57700.37-2021 “Computer models and modeling. DIGITAL DOUBLES OF PRODUCTS. General provisions” in Russia and in the international arena.

    In 2023, the global digital twin market was valued at $10 billion, and by 2028, experts estimate it will reach $110 billion with an unprecedented annual CAGR growth of 61%. World leaders recognize digital twins as one of the technologies of the future, the speaker explained.

    Alexey Ivanovich presented the ecosystem of technological development of SPbPU, which forms the “gold standard” of interaction between various federal structures, organized based on the results of victories in prestigious competitions of the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia with the aim of developing, replicating and expanding the scope of application of advanced digital and production technologies in industry and education.

    Alexey Borovkov spoke about the key results of R&D of the SPbPU technological development ecosystem, carried out on the Digital Platform for the Development and Application of Digital Twins CML-Bench® in 2024.

    In conclusion, Aleksey Borovkov noted the flagship role of the SPbPU Advanced Engineering School “Digital Engineering” in the ecosystem of technological development of the Polytechnic University and emphasized the growing interest in it from applicants and partner companies: Following the results of the admissions campaign in 2023, students were recruited to the SPbPU Advanced Engineering School “Digital Engineering” for 72 budget places. This year, the number of budget places and open educational programs has almost doubled, but we managed to maintain a high competition for admission, which is 4 people per place. The geography of admission covers almost all regions of our country, – Aleksey Ivanovich summed up.

    Based on the methodology of the federal project “Advanced Engineering Schools”, the rector of the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI Vladimir Shevchenko identified common patterns in organizing cooperation between partner companies and advanced engineering schools in the context of transforming approaches to engineering education and developing a system for training highly qualified personnel.

    The education of a modern engineer should, from the very beginning, assume an understanding that modern engineering and production activities occur in parallel in two worlds: physical and digital. I would like to emphasize the benefits of conducting early career guidance activities with applicants, which over the past year has made it possible to equalize the number of graduates taking the Unified State Exam in physics and computer science. For a modern engineer, these two disciplines should be in tandem, concluded Vladimir Igorevich.

    Deputy Chairman of the Council for the Development of the Digital Economy under the Federation Council of the Russian Federation Artem Sheikin spoke in detail about the main barriers to the introduction of artificial intelligence in real sectors of the economy in order to automate business processes, reduce costs and increase the efficiency of enterprises, and also spoke about the cybersecurity of processes for handling large volumes of industrial data.

    Director of Innovative Development of PJSC UEC-Saturn, Honorary Doctor of SPbPU Dmitry Ivanov shared his practical experience in developing digital twin of marine gas turbine engine gearbox as part of the unit within the framework of research work of national importance, carried out jointly with SPbPU, and highlighted a number of aspects.

    Everyone perceives digital twin technology differently. Very often, the technology is presented to enterprises as another calculation tool, work with which should be transferred down the hierarchy of engineering teams. This is a mistake. The digital twin changes the ideology of product design and production, including changes in the system of division of labor, business processes at the enterprise level, – Dmitry Stanislavovich emphasized to the audience.

    Director of Science at Gazprom Neft PJSC, Honorary Doctor of SPbPU Mars Khasanov presented an expert opinion on the implementation of system digital engineering technology, including digital twin technology, and considered the possibilities of combining it with neurosymbolic artificial intelligence to solve the company’s problems. Mars Magnavievich emphasized the need for practice-oriented training of personnel and highlighted various formats of project interaction at Gazprom Neft PJSC to form the required set of competencies of a future specialist.

    At the plenary session, representatives of research centers, leading universities and industrial enterprises exchanged experience in the application of new technologies, assessed the dynamics of their development and the speed of implementation in real production practice, held a discussion on the main trends in the development of domestic engineering software and discussed current issues in engineering education. More details about the plenary session read here.

    The business forum program traditionally consists of discussions, scientific and educational debates, pitch sessions, presentations. The full program of the forum can be found atevent website.

    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.spbstu.ru/media/nevs/science_and_innovations/forum-advanced-digital-and-production-technologies has started at the Polytechnic University/

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III’s Meeting With Danish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, Troels Lund Poulsen

    Source: United States Department of Defense

    Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided the following readout:

    Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III hosted Danish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Troels Lund Poulsen at the Pentagon yesterday.

    The Secretary thanked Minister Poulsen for Denmark’s significant assistance to develop Ukraine’s military capabilities and defense industry.  The two leaders exchanged views on the upcoming NATO Defense Ministerial Meeting and ensuring continued military assistance to Ukraine, both bilaterally and through the Ukraine Defense Contact Group.  

    Minister Poulsen and the Secretary also discussed opportunities to deepen and broaden bilateral defense cooperation, in light of the Defense Cooperation Agreement signed in December 2023.  Secretary Austin congratulated Minister Poulsen on Denmark’s Defence Agreement that includes an historic increase in defense spending and commended the announcement that Denmark will exceed two percent of Gross Domestic Product spending on defense this year.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Northern Gaza must not be cut off from the south: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN at the UN Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian Question.

    President, the UK supported the call for this meeting today, to discuss the urgent steps needed to address an ever-growing humanitarian tragedy in Gaza.

    The situation in northern Gaza is harrowing. Approximately 400,000 Gazans have been ordered to evacuate the north and move southwards to the IDF designated humanitarian zone. Many of these people will already have been displaced, some many times over, and are desperately searching for refuge.

    But there are no safe places in Gaza. Just this week we saw horrifying images following the Israeli strike on Al-Aqsa hospital, inside the IDF designated humanitarian zone.

    Those who decide to move face intimidation, active fighting zones and the threat of continued airstrikes. Those who stay face extreme hunger and appalling conditions, without access to basic services or healthcare.

    In the first half of October, no food aid was delivered to northern Gaza, with Israeli authorities denying or impeding the vast majority of humanitarian movements between north and south. We expect October to see the least aid enter Gaza since the beginning of the conflict, lower even more than September.

    Families in Gaza are facing a second winter with even less resilience and fewer resources. This is unconscionable.

    Israel must comply fully with international humanitarian law and ensure sufficient aid reaches all parts of Gaza. We also reiterate our concern at legislative proposals seeking to undermine UNRWA, which is vital to the humanitarian response in Gaza.

    Let me be clear. Northern Gaza must not be cut off from the south. Palestinian civilians, including those evacuated from northern Gaza, must be permitted to return to their communities and rebuild. There must be no forcible transfer of Gazans from or within Gaza, nor any reduction in the territory of the Gaza Strip.

    We need to see an immediate ceasefire, to bring this devastating conflict to an end.

    President, we must also hold in the front of our minds, the unthinkable suffering of the 101 hostages who remain in captivity in Gaza. Their ordeal has gone on for far too long. Once again, we call on Hamas to release the hostages immediately and unconditionally.

    And as we know, the suffering in the region goes beyond Gaza. We reiterate our call for an immediate ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel. All parties must take measures to avoid civilian casualties, and ensure the safety and security of UNIFIL personnel.

    And in the West Bank, as my Foreign Secretary has said, we urge the Israeli Government to take action to crack down on settler violence and to stop settler expansion on Palestinian land. 

    That is why yesterday, my Government announced further sanctions against three illegal settler outposts and four organisations in order to bring accountability to those who perpetrate such heinous human rights abuses against Palestinians.

    President, the Palestinian people, the Israeli people, and the region as a whole, deserve a better reality than the daily cycle of violence and fear to which they have become accustomed. But there is a path to peace. One which would see a safe and secure Palestinian state, beside a safe and secure Israel.

    We urge the parties to be courageous and to take the path towards peace and a better future for their people.

    Updates to this page

    Published 16 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Explore what’s new for Copilot and Dynamics 365 at Oct. 29 virtual launch event

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Explore what’s new for Copilot and Dynamics 365 at Oct. 29 virtual launch event

    As Microsoft Copilot features continue to roll out across Microsoft Dynamics 365 and Microsoft Power Platform, it can be easy to get overwhelmed and lose track of critical new capabilities. Thankfully, the Microsoft Business Applications Launch Event is just around the corner.  

    Register today for the virtual launch event on Tuesday, October 29, 2024—a showcase of new and enhanced capabilities releasing between October 2024 and March 2025. Packed with demos and a live Q&A chat with Microsoft experts, you’ll get a sneak peek at innovation that can empower your workforce, optimize business processes, and enhance customer engagement.   

    Microsoft Business Applications Launch Event

    Explore the future of your business.

    Explore the future of business with Copilot

    Microsoft product leaders and engineers will be live at the event to give you an in-depth look at the latest Copilot capabilities for Dynamics 365 and Microsoft Power Platform, including new ways to automate business process across your organization and scale your team. Our team will also showcase organizations across industries using new Copilot and Dynamics 365 features to drive transformation.

    Top 4 reasons to attend the launch event

    Twice a year, the Business Applications Launch Event gives you a sneak peek at product news, demos and insights into upcoming features and capabilities across Dynamics 365, Microsoft Power Platform, and Copilot. Here are four top reasons to attend the October 2024 event:  

    1. Get a sneak peek at highlights from the 2024 release wave 2. Discover what’s new and improved in Dynamics 365 and Microsoft Power Platform. Hear from Charles Lamanna, Microsoft Corporate Vice President Business and Industry Copilot, and other leaders as they guide you through dozens of new Copilot and core platform capabilities releasing over the next six months.  
    2. Personalize sales and service experiences. Learn how to elevate customer experiences with demonstrations of new capabilities across Microsoft Dynamics 365 Customer Service, Microsoft Dynamics 365 Contact Center, and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Sales. You’ll also discover how Sweden-based automotive company, Lynk & Co, is using Dynamics 365 to drive highly personalized experiences.
    3. Transform business operations with AI-enabled enterprise resource planning (ERP) processes. Get a sneak peek at the enhancements that improve both core functionality and autonomous capabilities across ERP applications like Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance, Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management, and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central through the lens of our customer Lifetime Products, as well as the latest features for Business Central.  
    4. Exploring the future of Microsoft Power Platform. Learn how Copilot is transforming how you build, what you build, how you automate, and get a first-hand look at how Applied Information Sciences is innovating business solutions using the newest capabilities for Microsoft Power Apps, Microsoft Power Automate, and Microsoft Copilot Studio.

    That’s not all. You’ll also hear from other Microsoft leaders about their roadmap for the future of AI, customer service, and operations and how to use these new technologies to take on your organization’s most time-consuming tasks.  

    The Business Applications Launch Event streams live on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 starting at 9:00 AM Pacific Time and then available on-demand. Be sure to register for updates and reminders as the event day approaches. We’ll see you there!    

    Microsoft Business Applications Launch Event 

    Tuesday, October 29, 2024 
    9:00 AM-10:00 AM Pacific Time (UTC-7)  

    MIL OSI Global Banks