NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI: Emerging Markets in Africa and Asia Downloaded Bitget Wallet More Than Major Centralized Exchanges

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, Oct. 17, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget Wallet, the leading Web3 non-custodial wallet, has surpassed 40 million users, doubling its user base in just six months. The wallet also climbed to the second spot in global crypto app downloads for September, with nearly 6 million downloads in that month alone, closing in on Binance. This explosive growth is largely contributed by emerging markets, where Bitget Wallet’s user base has skyrocketed. Notably, Bitget Wallet’s user growth rate in Africa reached 413% and South Asia saw a 126% increase. These regions are turning to decentralized wallets as vital tools for financial independence and easy access to crypto services, often filling gaps left by centralized financial systems.

    In countries like Nigeria, where Bitget Wallet’s user growth rate hit 468% in Q3 2024, rising inflation and weakening currencies have led to increased adoption of decentralized wallets as secure, reliable financial tools. According to Bloomberg, the local naira currency has lost about 70% of its value since May 2023. As a result, people are seeking alternatives to preserve their wealth and participate in stable financial systems. Bitget Wallet serves this need, offering easy access to crypto assets and rewards with all-rounded trading and earning features, making it No. 1 on the App Store in Nigeria in June 2024.

    In Southeast Asia, Play-to-Earn (P2E) games once dominated the blockchain gaming landscape, attracting a young, tech-savvy audience. However, the trend has evolved towards Tap-to-Earn (T2E) games within Telegram ecosystem. T2E games are more accessible, requiring no separate app downloads or upfront NFT investments. Their simplicity, combined with Telegram’s referral system, has facilitated easy onboarding of new users, making Telegram a fertile ground for blockchain gaming.

    In Q3 2024, Bitget Wallet experienced a surge in user growth, particularly in the Philippines and Vietnam, with growth rates of 102% and 73%, respectively. This spike is attributed to the T2E trend, where users earn money by engaging with Telegram mini-games. The shift from P2E to T2E highlights a broader trend towards more integrated blockchain ecosystems, showcasing how gaming apps and social interactions are driving cryptocurrency adoption among younger generations.

    With its remarkable growth, Bitget Wallet aims to be the ultimate gateway for the next billion users to Web3, bringing together the best and latest opportunities in one seamless app. “We believe Web3 offers unprecedented potential for financial freedom, security through self-custody, and a more equitable future. Our mission is to make Web3 easy and accessible for everyone. We’re committed to bringing financial inclusion to regions where centralized financial systems fall short and giving people seamless tools to participate in a global decentralized economy,” said Alvin Kan, COO at Bitget Wallet.

    India’s crypto users are increasingly seeking decentralized financial tools amidst ongoing security concerns and regulatory uncertainty around centralized exchanges. Bitget Wallet has capitalized on this trend, recording 191% user growth in India during Q3 2024. The rise is attributed to its ability to cater to these needs by offering enhanced security features such as keyless MPC wallet, which removes the need for private keys and provides a more user-friendly experience. Additionally, Bitget Wallet’s integration with Telegram Tap-to-Earn mini-games, has made it easier for Indian users to engage with Web3.

    For similar reasons, European users are increasingly opting for decentralized wallets as alternatives to centralized exchanges. Countries like France, Germany, and the UK, where Bitget Wallet saw 286%, 115% and 94% user growth in Q3 respectively, are leading this trend. Users in these regions are drawn to Bitget Wallet’s all-in-one platform, which allows them to manage, trade, and explore decentralized apps extensively and securely. As wallets continue to evolve, they are emerging as essential entry points to Web3 for users across Europe.

    To get started with Bitget Wallet, please visit here.

    About Bitget Wallet

    Bitget Wallet stands as one of the world’s leading non-custodial Web3 wallets and decentralized ecosystem platform. With the Bitget Onchain Layer, the wallet is well-poised to develop a burgeoning DeFi ecosystem through co-creation and strategic incubation. Aside from a powerful Swap function, Bitget Wallet also offers multi-chain asset management, smart money insights, a native Launchpad, Inscriptions Center, and an Earning Center. Supporting over 100 major blockchains, 500,000+ tokens, and a wide array of DApps, Bitget Wallet is your top wallet for asset discovery and Web3 exploration.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | Discord

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5b2fe99a-7041-4e45-9de8-d37cb4be97c4

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin took part in the All-Russian Congress of Road Workers

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    Marat Khusnullin took part in the All-Russian Congress of Road Workers

    Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin took part in a panel discussion of the All-Russian Congress of Road Workers at the XI International Specialized Exhibition “Road-2024”. In particular, preliminary results of the implementation of the national project “Safe High-Quality Roads” were summed up.

    “In recent years, an effectively functioning, unified project team for the road industry of the entire country has been formed. Thanks to the support of the President, the Chairman of the Government, as well as the coordinated work of the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Finance, Rosavtodor, and regional teams, we have managed to achieve great success, including in the implementation of the national project “Safe High-Quality Roads”. As a result, comfortable conditions for study and work, for rest and raising children have been created. Positive changes have not gone unnoticed by residents of the regions. The national project is one of the most recognizable among the population. Over six years of work on “BKD”, we have been able to repair, reconstruct and build more than 100 thousand km of roads in 84 regions, and lay 800 million square meters of top layers of pavement. Now we are finishing the current road national project, the continuation of which in the future will be a new one – “Infrastructure for Life”. There is still a lot of work to be done, but with a well-coordinated team, I am sure that all targets will be met, and some of them will exceed the planned values,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    The Deputy Prime Minister thanked his colleagues for the work done in terms of developing the road transport industry and noted large-scale plans for the future. On the instructions of the President, by 2030 it is planned to build at least 50 bypasses of populated areas. Active development of the transport route “Russia”, international transport corridors “North – South”, “West – East” will also continue. Local measures to eliminate bottlenecks in the federal network, development of roads of the Azov-Black Sea cluster will also continue.

    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://government.ru/nevs/53030/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Readout of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr.’s Meeting with Armenia’s Chief of the General Staff Lt. Gen. Edvard Asryan

    Source: US Defense Joint Chiefs of Staff

    Office of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Public Affairs

    October 17, 2024

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Joint Staff Spokesperson Navy Capt. Jereal Dorsey provided the following readout:

    Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., met with Armenia’s Chief of the General Staff Lt. Gen. Edvard Asryan yesterday at the Pentagon.

    Gen. Brown thanked Lt. Gen. Asryan for Armenia’s productive military-to-military cooperation with the U.S and reaffirmed the importance of strengthening the defense relationship. Additionally, the military leaders discussed Armenia’s military modernization initiatives, and Gen. Brown offered to support these efforts through the State Partnership Program and additional training opportunities. Finally, the Chairman expressed concern about Russia’s malign influence in the region and the need to counter these activities.

    The U.S. remains committed to fostering regional stability and a lasting peace in the South Caucasus.

    For more Joint Staff news, visit: www.jcs.mil.
    Connect with the Joint Staff on social media: 
    Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube,
    LinkedIn and Flickr.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: British Caribbean Minister meets Prime Minister Philip Davis KC in The Bahamas as the two countries strengthen trade ties

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Baroness Chapman signs new trade deals between the UK and The Bahamas

    • Baroness Chapman to visit The Bahamas as part of her first visit to the Western Caribbean
    • Minister meeting with Prime Minister Philip Davis KC to formally sign series of UK-Bahamas trade deals
    • UK-Bahamas trade relationship worth $5bn per year

    The UK Minister for the Caribbean, Baroness Chapman is in The Bahamas today.

    While in Nassau, the Minister met Prime Minister Philip Davis KC to discuss formally our bilateral partnership, and our shared priority of growing our economies, empowering our young people, and fighting the climate and nature crises.

    The Minister and Prime Minister announced a series of new trade deals between the UK and The Bahamas, that will see UK businesses including Manchester Airport Group and Amey PLC awarded contracts for work to operator Freeport Airport, and rebuild Glass Window Bridge.  

    In a demonstration of the growing UK-Bahamas trade relationship, Baroness Chapman was also able to announce that Amey PLC, the firm behind construction of the M1 and the rebuilding of Liverpool Lime Street, will be making Nassau the home of its first ever office in the Americas.

    The firm will hire and train Bahamian engineers and project managers, and connect Bahamian companies with British expertise to win contracts across the Caribbean and USA. 

    The current trade relationship between the UK and The Bahamas amounts to $5bn a year, making the UK one of The Bahamas’ most significant trade partners.

    UK Caribbean Minister, Baroness Chapman said:

    The UK-Bahamas relationship is going from strength to strength.  

    The deals I am announcing alongside the Right Honourable Philip Davis here this week will see British businesses deliver essential infrastructure projects for The Bahamas, and invest directly in The Bahamas.

    They are a further illustration of our growing partnership, as we continue work to deliver growth and prosperity for the people of both our nations.

    I look forward to continuing to deepen our ties from trade to climate during my time in The Bahamas.

    During her visit, Baroness Chapman also met Minister of Education and Technical and Vocational Training, Glenys Hanna-Martin, where she formally handed over 10,000 pages of historic documents pertaining to Bahamian Independence, that have been stored in the National Archives in the UK.  

    The documents have also been digitised and will be made available by The Bahamas’ National Archive, which will increase access and public understanding of the process undertaken to achieve independence by students both in The Bahamas and the UK.  

    Following a visit to a coral reef to see the work local NGOs are doing to preserve an important ecological area, the Minister toured the University of The Bahamas, where she took part in a roundtable alongside environmental science students, academics and NGOs focused on the impact of climate change on The Bahamas.

    Finally, the Minister visited the Forensics department of The Royal Bahamas Police Force and met two senior female officers who were recipients of the UK Chevening scholarship, and who received formal UK forensics training.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

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

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Transition Finance Market Review launch

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Keynote speech by Minister for Industry at the launch event for the Transition Finance Market Review.

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

    Thank you Councillor for your warm welcome and for your work as part of this review.  

    This is my second time this week in the Guildhall. We had the big Investment Summit here on Monday. It’s always very special to come to the Guildhall. 

    For 2,000 years this site has been a hub of development, business and finance, so it’s apt that we meet here today to discuss more modern means of generating profitable, sustainable growth in the UK.  

     I want to start by congratulating Vanessa and the team and everyone who has taken part in the Transition Finance Market Review and for publishing your comprehensive report and to City of London Corporation for hosting this event.  

    This is a really important review, which will influence how we think about financing the clean energy transition in the UK and around the world.  

    Our twin  goals of clean power by 2030 and accelerating to net zero in 2050 are ambitious… 

    …but, as the men and women who stood in this Guildhall over the centuries knew, with any period of growth comes huge opportunity. 

    Which is why we need to deploy all the tools at our disposal – from innovative new technology at scale, to novel and creative financial packages that mirror that ambition.  

    Clean energy is at the heart of this government’s agenda.  

    We believe that clean energy is the economic and industrial opportunity of the 21st century.  

    Mobilising public and private finance will be critical to achieving our clean energy mission and international climate goals.  

    The government is working quickly to remove the barriers and deploy legislative actions to accelerate the work.  

    Take the de-facto onshore wind ban.  

    Removed within 72 hours of being in office… 

    Now we must support industry on how to break ground on multiple new projects.    

    It’s why we are introducing a Planning and Infrastructure Bill to speed up and streamline the planning process.  

    And we will also be updating the relevant National Policy Statements within the next 12 months to provide certainty to the industry. 

    By stimulating the market and crowding-in investment via Great British Energy, we stand to rapidly grow supply chains across the country, creating the well-paid and meaningful jobs our communities crave. 

    But this all points back to finance. 

    How do we approach the question of scaling up the investment we need?  

    First, our ambition is to make the UK the green finance capital of the world.  

    This will mobilise Britain’s world-leading financial centre to unlock the trillions of pounds of investment needed for the global energy transition.   

    A strong sustainable finance policy framework is critical to driving investment into the sectors that are crucial to meet our carbon budgets.  

    It also provides a huge economic growth opportunity for the financial services sector.  

    Second, there must be a genuine partnership between government and the private sector.

    In the UK we need hundreds of billions of pounds of investment to make this transition happen.  

    Our role is to set a clear and certain direction of travel, with a plan that businesses and investors understand. 

    And third, we remain committed to being a strong advocate for climate finance to ensure developing countries across the world have the finance they need.   

    COP29 needs to deliver an ambitious new climate finance goal that meets the needs and priorities of developing countries.  

    This will be vital to accelerating investment in mitigation and adaptation and will play an important role in securing ambitious NDCs ahead of COP30 next year.  

    But we know that this won’t be as easy as flicking a switch for high emitting sectors.  

    Transition finance for hard-to-abate sectors will play a key role, particularly when it comes to challenges such as industrial decarbonisation.  

    I know there are complex challenges to overcome in scaling up the transition finance market. 

    These include minimising the risks of greenwashing and ensuring investors are equipped with the right information on investment needs for our sectors.  

    But there are huge opportunities too.  

    So, what is changing? 

    The Transition Finance Market Review has developed a comprehensive set of policy recommendations for how government can do more to accelerate the growth and ensure the credibility of our transition finance market.  

    The Review has called for more clarity on decarbonisation pathways for key sectors and ways of mobilising private investment to achieve these. 

    We will strive to deliver this clarity through existing and new policy, including our Industrial Strategy launched on Monday setting out the steps we are taking to deliver long-term growth while harnessing the opportunities of net zero. 

    Clean Energy Industries are one of eight growth-driving sectors identified in the Industrial Strategy green paper this week. This is alongside Advanced Manufacturing, Creative Industries, Defence, Digital and Technologies, Financial Services, Life Sciences, and Professional and Business Services.  

    We are now keen to hear your thoughts on how we identify the most promising sub-sectors within clean energy industries – including the most innovative emerging technologies. 

    More over, our green paper makes clear the UK is committed to sustaining growth – growth that is aligned with our Net Zero and environmental objectives. 

    We also announced a National Wealth Fund capitalised with £27.8 billion to invest in the new industries of the future and mobilise billions more in private investment and generating a return for taxpayers.  

    The National Wealth Fund will build on the leadership of the UK Infrastructure Bank but go further – including in ways recommended by the Transition Finance Market Review.  

    And just one example, the National Wealth Fund will be empowered to make investments that maximise the mobilisation of private investment, including an expanded suite of financial instruments such as performance guarantees and trialling new blended finance solutions, with government departments, taking on additional risk to facilitate higher impact in individual deals. 

    It will inherit UKIB’s existing £22 billion capitalisation and have an additional £5.8 billion, which will be committed over this Parliament. 

    In addition, we are driving forward several green finance priorities mentioned in the Review. 

    We are developing our approach to mandate UK registered financial institutions and large companies to implement credible transition plans. 

    we will ensure we move from ambition into coherent strategies to realise the opportunities of the net zero economy… 

    …and I want to extend my thanks to the Transition Plan Taskforce for their work to pioneer global best practice in this space. 

    We will also continue to advance our plans for a UK Green Taxonomy in line with our commitment in Financing Growth.  

    We want to ensure any framework is science-based, interoperable with international standards, and user-friendly for business and intend to provide more detail on our plans in this area soon.  

    Finally, we are advancing plans to ‘endorse’ international climate-related reporting standards issued by the International Sustainability Standards for use in the UK. 

    Our government will be studying the recommendations in the report very carefully and will be making further announcements on their implementation soon.  

    Clean power by 2030 is ambitious. But when you look around the world, you see that we have no time to waste.  

    Climactic events are worsening. All the industrialised nations around the world have a responsibility to step-up and redress this imbalance, using whatever resources necessary.  

    Domestically, we know that the advance of the green sector is intrinsically linked to the economy, and it is our core mission to deliver meaningful, well-paid jobs fuelled by renewable growth.   

    And it’s the reason we’re going all-out for clean power.  

    All of this hinges on mobilising green finance today, so that decades from now, people will remember this period as our green industrial revolution, delivering prosperity, skills and clean energy for millions of people.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Spelthorne Borough Council: Assistant Best Value Inspector appointment letters

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Letters appointing Assistant Best Value Inspectors in relation to Spelthorne Borough Council.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    Spelthorne Borough Council: Assistant Inspector appointment letter (Deborah McLaughlin)

    PDF, 161 KB, 1 page

    Spelthorne Borough Council: Assistant Inspector appointment letter (Mervyn Greer)

    PDF, 167 KB, 1 page

    Spelthorne Borough Council: Assistant Inspector appointment letter (Peter Robinson)

    PDF, 162 KB, 1 page

    Details

    Copies of the letters from Max Soule, Deputy Director Local Government Stewardship and Interventions at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to Deborah McLaughlin, Mervyn Greer and Peter Robinson, detailing the decision by ministers to appoint them as Assistant Inspectors in relation to Spelthorne Borough Council under section 10 of the Local Government Act 1999.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU-Gulf Cooperation Council summit

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    16 Ottobre 2024

    The President of the Council of Ministers, Giorgia Meloni, attended the EU-Gulf Cooperation Council summit at the Europa building in Brussels today. Following the working session, President Meloni addressed journalists at a press point.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with the C5+1 during UNGA 79 

    Source: United States Department of State (4)

    Office of the Spokesperson

    The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller:

    Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with foreign ministers and representatives from the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Republic of Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and the Republic of Uzbekistan today under the auspices of the C5+1 platform during the 79th annual session of the UN General Assembly.

    Reflecting on the commitments made by U.S. and Central Asian leaders during the inaugural C5+1 Presidential Summit on September 19, 2023, the Secretary acknowledged significant steps taken since that landmark occasion in furtherance of the Summit’s New York Declaration, including the C5+1 Critical Minerals Dialogue launch, the inaugural B5+1 Forum in support of U.S.-Central Asian business partnership, and the first C5+1 Special Session on Disability Rights on the margins of the UN Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) at the United Nations.

    Participants discussed steps toward enhanced regional security cooperation in pursuance of a shared vision for a peaceful Central Asia. The Secretary underscored the importance of upholding the United Nations Charter and its principles, including with respect to human rights, and C5+1 partnership that is grounded in respect for the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of all states.

    Secretary Blinken noted that the year 2025 will mark ten years of enduring U.S.-Central Asian collaboration through the C5+1 platform. In the spirit of cooperation that has come to define the C5+1, the Secretary emphasized U.S. commitment to pursuing regional solutions to global challenges in partnership with the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Republic of Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and the Republic of Uzbekistan.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretary Antony J. Blinken at a C5+1 Meeting

    Source: United States Department of State (4)

    Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    New York City, New York

    Palace Hotel

    Secretary Antony J. Blinken at a C5+1 Meeting

    Remarks

    September 27, 2024

    SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good morning, everyone. And I’m so pleased to – excuse me – welcome all of our friends and partners from Central Asia for this C5+1 meeting today. As I’ve been saying, it’s Friday. We’ve all made it to the end of the High-Level Week.

    But I’m so pleased that we were all able to find the time to come together. The United States is a steadfast supporter of the independence, the sovereignty, the territorial integrity of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan.

    And we are also steadfast in our partnership. We’ve done very good work through the C5+1, and, of course, a highlight was a meeting among our leaders with President Biden.

    But we’ve been delivering on the C5+1’s vision of regional solutions to global challenges. The engagement among all of us enhances sustainable economic growth. It strengthens energy and climate resilience and security.

    Next year, 2025, will mark ten years since we launched the C5+1, and the United States, for its part, looks very much forward to celebrating this enduring partnership, but not just celebrating it, continuing to grow it, to strengthen it.

    And today’s a very good opportunity to take stock of what we’ve been able to achieve but also to keep us focused on the future and all that we can do together. Thank you.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ohio Man Who Concealed Croatian War Crime Charge Sentenced to Prison for Immigration Fraud

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    An Ohio man was sentenced yesterday to three years in prison for possessing a green card he illegally obtained by concealing that he had been charged with a war crime in Croatia prior to immigrating to the United States.

    According to court documents, Jugoslav Vidic, 56, of Parma Heights, in applying to become a lawful permanent resident of the United States, falsely stated that he had never been charged with breaking any law even though he knew he had been charged in Croatia with a war crime against the civilian population. Vidic also falsely stated that his only past military service was in the Yugoslav Army from 1988 to 1989, when, in fact, he fought with the Serb Army of Krajina and its predecessors during the civil war in the former Yugoslavia from 1991 to 1995. As a result of these materially false statements, Vidic was approved for lawful permanent resident status and received a green card.

    “Jugoslav Vidic lied about war crimes charged against him in an attempt to escape his past and live in the United States unlawfully,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Thanks to the dedication of prosecutors, law enforcement, and our international partners, Vidic will serve prison time in the United States followed by his removal. His sentence demonstrates that human rights violators will not be allowed to hide from their crimes in the United States.”

    “Vidic committed serious human rights violations and was convicted of war crimes in Croatia as a result. Yet, he lied to U.S. immigration officials about his conviction and participation in a violent military force to claim refugee status and obtain a green card — becoming a permanent legal resident of our country — when he was not eligible to do so,” said U.S. Attorney Rebecca Lutzko for the Northern District of Ohio. “Those who run away from violent crimes they commit elsewhere in the world and then enter our country by brazenly lying about their past will be held to account, as yesterday’s sentence demonstrates. Vidic’s deceitful actions are detestable, and unfairly hurt people in need who legitimately seek refuge to flee real harms in their home countries.”

    “Our communities here in Ohio and across the United States are not safe havens for war criminals to escape accountability in their home countries,” said Executive Associate Director Katrina W. Berger of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). “It is my hope that this sentencing provides some measure of solace to the victims’ families with the knowledge that despite the passage of time, the United States will seek justice.”

    “Jugoslav Vidic intentionally circumvented the laws of the United States by lying on his green card application about his war crimes conviction in Croatia,” said Assistant Director Chad Yarbrough of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “This case should serve as a warning to others that the FBI will work with our law enforcement partners to identify and hold accountable those like Vidic who seek to violate U.S. law by fraud of any kind.”

    “Jugoslav Vidic knowingly avoided the truth of his past to enjoy the freedoms and liberties of the United States for over two and a half decades,” said Special Agent in Charge Greg Nelsen of the FBI Cleveland Field Office. “Yesterday’s sentence underscores the work of the FBI and its local, state, federal, and international partners and sends a clear message that people in the United States who take part in war crimes, regardless of when or where they occurred, or by masking their involvement, will be identified, investigated, and prosecuted.”

    Vidic admitted in his plea agreement that he was charged with a war crime in Croatia in 1994 and convicted in absentia in 1998. The Croatian court found that during an attack by ethnic Serb forces in Petrinja, Croatia, on Sept. 16, 1991, Vidic cut off the arm of civilian Stjepan Komes, who died afterward. Vidic further admitted that he knew about the Croatian charges when he immigrated to the United States as a refugee in 1999, applied to become a lawful permanent resident in 2000, and was interviewed by U.S. immigration officials and received his green card in 2005.

    Vidic pleaded guilty to one count of possessing an alien registration receipt card knowing it had been procured through materially false statements. As part of the plea agreement, Vidic agreed to the entry of a judicial order of removal from the United States.

    HSI and the FBI are investigating the case with coordination provided by the Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center, including the FBI’s International Human Rights Unit. The Justice Department thanks the Ministry of the Interior and Ministry of Justice and Public Administration of the Republic of Croatia, which were both instrumental in furthering the investigation.

    Trial Attorney Patrick Jasperse of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew W. Shepherd and Jerome J. Teresinski for the Northern District of Ohio are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs also provided assistance.

    Members of the public who have information about human rights violators or immigration fraud in the United States are urged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or through the FBI online tip form, or HSI at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE or through the ICE online tip form. All are staffed around the clock, and tips may be provided anonymously.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Christine Lagarde: Lessons from Ljubljana in uncertain times

    Source: European Central Bank

    Speech by Christine Lagarde, President of the ECB, at the official dinner of Banka Slovenije in Ljubljana, Slovenia

    Ljubljana, 16 October 2024

    It is a pleasure to be here this evening.

    Not far from here, tucked away in the National and University Library, lie copies of the Abecedarium and the Catechism. These two texts, written by the religious reformer Primož Trubar in 1550, were the first ever books to be printed in Slovenian.[1]

    At a time when German was the language of the ruling classes, Trubar’s pioneering act was fundamental in helping to establish the national identity of Slovenians.[2]

    Today, his portrait graces the €1 coin in Slovenia, framed by the famous words found in the Catechism, “Stati inu Obstati” – “to stand and withstand”.[3]

    It is telling that both books – one a primer for the Slovenian language, the other guidelines for religious observance – were designed to teach, for there is much that Europe can learn from Slovenia in the uncertain world we now face.

    The global order we knew is fading. Open trade is being replaced with fragmented trade, multilateral rules with state-sponsored competition and stable geopolitics with conflict.

    Europe had invested considerably in the old order, so this transition is challenging for us. As the most open of the major economies, we are more exposed than others.

    So, in this new landscape, we too must learn “to stand and withstand”. And we can do so by drawing on two valuable lessons from Ljubljana.

    Opportunity in times of uncertainty

    The first lesson is that uncertainty can create opportunity.

    While many in Europe are anxious about the future, Slovenians are no strangers to uncertainty.

    Within a single generation, Slovenia made a success of the extraordinarily difficult transition from a planned economy to a market economy. Policymakers defied the odds by implementing tough structural reforms to first join the EU and, later, the euro area.

    Today, Slovenia is a success story. It is a developed, stable and high-income economy, with the highest GDP per capita at purchasing power parity of central and eastern European countries (CEECs).

    The nation’s success owes much to the creativity and vigour of its people and their innate ability to seize economic turning points and transform them into opportunities.

    For example, when Slovenia joined the EU, it was exposed to greater levels of competition from other Member States in the economic bloc.

    But Slovenia quickly capitalised on its skilled workforce to develop a new business model based on deep integration in the Single Market. Today, every single car produced in Europe has at least one component that is made in Slovenia.[4]

    For Europe, the changes in the global economy today represent a similar turning point. But if we approach it with the right spirit, I believe it can be an opportunity for renewal.

    A less favourable global economy can push us to complete our domestic market. Fiercer foreign competition can encourage us to develop new technologies. More volatile geopolitics can drive us to become more energy secure and self-sufficient in our supply chains.

    For Slovenia, the transformation of the automotive supply chain will be a particular challenge. But the economy is already adapting. For example, in July this year Slovenia secured a major investment in domestic electric vehicle production.[5]

    For many Slovenians, striding into an unpredictable future may seem like second nature.

    One of your most famous paintings, “The Sower”, hangs on display here at the National Gallery. Depicting an agricultural labourer at the crack of dawn hard at work sowing seeds in a field, the painting represents Slovenians’ resolute determination in the face of uncertainty.

    The rest of us in Europe will need to draw on this example in the uncertain times ahead. If we do so, we can also turn uncertainty into opportunity.

    The importance of sharing the benefits of change

    The second lesson from Slovenia is that the benefits of change can – and should – be more widely shared.

    The path of renewal for Europe is inescapably linked with new technology, especially digitalisation. But new technologies can sometimes lead to uneven labour market outcomes.

    Slovenia has undergone remarkable technological change over the past 20 years. Today, the country’s level of digital development is 7% above the CEEC average and it can compete with some of the most digitally developed EU countries in certain areas.[6]

    Yet Slovenia’s Gini coefficient – a measure of income inequality – is the second lowest in the OECD.[7] The country also benefits from high levels of gender equality. Female labour force participation is higher than the EU average and nearly equal to that of men.[8]

    Many in Europe are worried about the challenges ahead, such as the effects of artificial intelligence on social inclusion. But we should let Slovenia’s example inspire us.

    With the right approach, we can move forward and become more technologically advanced while ensuring everyone can benefit from the gains.

    And when everyone benefits, Europe benefits too. Over three-quarters of citizens in Slovenia feel attached to Europe, and almost two-thirds identify as both Slovenian and European – levels that are well above their respective EU averages.[9]

    Conclusion

    Let me conclude.

    In today’s uncertain world, Europe must learn “to stand and withstand”. And it can do so by looking to Slovenia as an example of how to overcome challenges that come its way.

    First, we must work hard to sow the seeds of success. And then, as the folk singer Vlado Kreslin sings, “vse se da” – “everything is possible”.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Study Highlights Damage of Biden-Harris Proposed LNG Ban

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jodey Arrington (TX-19)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, the National Association of Manufacturers released its “Economic Benefits of U.S. LNG Exports” report, highlighting the positive impact American liquified natural gas (LNG) has on the economy, as well as the prospective damage of the Biden-Harris administration’s ban on LNG export permits. 

    The report found that U.S. LNG exports currently support 222,450 jobs, resulting in $23.2 billion in labor income, while adding $43.8 billion of value to the American economy. It also found that the Biden-Harris January 2024 ban on LNG exports, if continued, could cost an estimated 900,000 jobs, $216 billion of economic growth, and cause American communities to lose $48 billion in tax and royalty revenues by 2044.

    In July, House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington (TX-19) led over 50 of his colleagues in a bipartisan call for the White House to expedite approvals of new LNG export permits after a federal judge blocked the administration’s ban on new exports.

    “Since their first day in office, President Biden and Vice President Harris have launched a unilateral assault on American oil and gas, choking the lifeblood of our economy, crushing consumers with high energy costs, and sending oil production overseas – enriching our adversaries like Russia and China,” said Chairman Arrington in a July statement. “Thankfully, the Biden-Harris ban on American LNG export permits was blocked. Yet, their administration is still dragging its heels on approving these permits in an attempt to placate the far-Left. It’s critical that the DOE swiftly approve stalled export permit applications to strengthen our economy, bolster our energy security, and restore American energy dominance.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 16.10.2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nokia Corporation
    Stock Exchange Release
    16 October 2024 at 22:30 EET

    Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 16.10.2024

    Espoo, Finland – On 16 October 2024 Nokia Corporation (LEI: 549300A0JPRWG1KI7U06) has acquired its own shares (ISIN FI0009000681) as follows:

    Trading venue (MIC Code) Number of shares Weighted average price / share, EUR*
    XHEL 1,622,961 4.08
    CEUX 700,000 4.07
    BATE – –
    AQEU – –
    TQEX – –
    Total 2,322,961 4.08

    * Rounded to two decimals

    On 25 January 2024, Nokia announced that its Board of Directors is initiating a share buyback program to return up to EUR 600 million of cash to shareholders in tranches over a period of two years. The first phase of the share buyback program started on 20 March 2024. On 19 July 2024, Nokia decided to accelerate the share buybacks by increasing the number of shares to be repurchased during the year 2024. The post-increase repurchases in compliance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 (MAR), the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 and under the authorization granted by Nokia’s Annual General Meeting on 3 April 2024 started on 22 July 2024 and end by 31 December 2024 with a maximum aggregate purchase price of EUR 600 million for all purchases during 2024.

    Total cost of transactions executed on 16 October 2024 was EUR 9,468,621. After the disclosed transactions, Nokia Corporation holds 172,236,598 treasury shares.

    Details of transactions are included as an appendix to this announcement.

    On behalf of Nokia Corporation

    BofA Securities Europe SA

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs.

    Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    Inquiries:

    Nokia Communications
    Phone: +358 10 448 4900
    Email: press.services@nokia.com
    Maria Vaismaa, Global Head of External Communications

    Nokia Investor Relations
    Phone: +358 40 803 4080
    Email: investor.relations@nokia.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: United in Ukraine’s Recovery: EC-EIB-UNDP partnership is driving reconstruction and building resilience

    Source: European Investment Bank

    Ivana Živković emphasised: “While the resilience of Ukrainians fills me with hope, the continuous attacks threaten to erase the hard-won gains from our joint recovery efforts. We must remain steadfast in our support for Ukraine and ensure that the lessons learned here are reflected in our response. Trust among our partnerships has enabled us to respond swiftly and effectively to the needs of Ukraine. Our focus is not just on rebuilding infrastructure but on empowering local communities to lead their own recovery. This is how we ensure resilience and sustainability.”

    These recovery projects are supported by international partners but are fully managed by local governments, whose leadership is crucial to their success, as they are tailored to each community’s needs. Two Ukrainian mayors shared details of the recovery projects currently underway in their regions, showcasing Ukraine’s resilient spirit that thrives even in the smallest communities. Both leaders exemplify proactive local governance as they address the challenges of recovering from war damages, accommodating displaced persons, and developing their villages to flourish amid ongoing adversities and the pressures of modern urbanisation trends.

    Mykhailo Demchenko, Head of the Stryzhavka Territorial Community in Vinnytsia Region, said: “In Stryzhavka, we are working on key projects that include the construction of a new administrative building and major repairs to two local schools recently inaugurated. These initiatives, part of the Ukraine Recovery Programme, are essential for restoring not only infrastructure but also community spirit and functionality. With support from the EU Delegation, the EIB and UNDP, we’re building a brighter future for our residents and the internally displaced persons (IDPs) we are hosting.”

    Ruslan Yaremchuk, Head of the Palanka Territorial Community in Cherkasy Region stated: “Our community is focused on rebuilding educational institutions that were severely damaged during the war, including the Palanka Lyceum and Horodetska Secondary School. We are also renovating the Palanka kindergarten, ensuring that our youngest residents have a safe place to learn. These projects, with a total investment of over €4 million, are vital for the long-term resilience of Palanka.”

    Recovery efforts and long-term reforms are vital 

    The event’s panel discussion was moderated by Kristina Mikulova, head of the EIB Regional Hub for Eastern Europe and focused on the evolving needs of Ukraine. Vsevolod Chentsov, Head of the Mission of Ukraine to the European Union, highlighted the country’s urgent priorities, particularly ahead of the upcoming winter: “The ongoing Russian missile and drone strikes have devastated 9 GW of Ukraine’s energy generation capacity, leaving us in an urgent and critical situation. The European Union’s financial backing, which has already provided €2 billion in aid, and the contributions from member states, including funds from frozen Russian assets, are crucial to preventing a worst-case scenario this winter.”

    Anna Jarosz Friis, Director of the Ukraine Service at DG NEAR, emphasised the European Commission’s commitment to supporting Ukraine through the Ukraine Facility 2024-2027, which aims to address both immediate recovery needs and long-term reforms. Violaine Silvestro von Kameke, Principal Advisor at the EIB, illustrated the tangible impact of recent projects she inaugurated, showcasing how EIB framework loans have improved lives across more than 120 communities. Additionally, Jaco Cilliers, UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine, shared valuable insights from UNDP’s extensive crisis response work, drawing parallels between Ukraine’s early recovery efforts and similar initiatives in other fragile environments worldwide.

    Looking ahead: building a resilient future for Ukraine

    As Ukraine navigates the ongoing challenges posed by the war, international support remains crucial. The EU-EIB-UNDP partnership will continue to play a pivotal role in meeting both immediate recovery needs and long-term investment goals, particularly as Ukraine strives for EU accession. The event highlighted the progress made so far, while acknowledging the long road ahead for rebuilding a resilient and sustainable Ukraine.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate: Valdis Dombrovskis – Economy and Productivity; Implementation and Simplification – 15-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Valdis Dombrovskis is European Commission Executive Vice-President and currently holds an economic portfolio, which since 2020 also includes trade. After becoming Commission Vice-President for the Euro and Social Dialogue in 2016, in 2019 he was promoted to Executive Vice-President for the Euro and Social Dialogue, also overseeing Financial Stability, Financial Services and the Capital Markets Union. In 2014, Dombrovskis was elected a Member of the European Parliament, sitting in the European Paople’s Party (EPP) group, a post he had already held from 2004 to 2009. He was a member of the Committee on Budgets and a substitute member of the Economic and Monetary Affairs and Budgetary Control committees. Dombrovskis served as Latvia’s prime minister from 2009 to 2014. Prior to this, from 2002 to 2004, he served as the country’s finance minister. Born in 1971 in Riga, Latvia, Dombrovskis earned a master’s degree in physics from the University of Latvia. He later obtained a professional master’s degree in customs and tax administration from Riga Technical University.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Taking account of the skilled trades in legislation and cutting red tape – E-001537/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Reducing administrative burdens and simplifying implementation are key political priorities for the next mandate[1]. A new small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and competitiveness check for new initiatives will help design them with small businesses in mind, avoiding unnecessary burdens and too complex legislation.

    The work on the reduction of burdens related to reporting obligations by 25% continues and will intensify to reduce burdens by at least 35% for SMEs.

    In line with the better regulation guidelines[2], one-off and recurrent costs are compiled for Commission proposals[3]. The offsetting under the ‘one-in, one-out’ approach applies to administrative costs while adjustment costs are compensated for to the greatest extent.

    Your Europe[4] is the EU’s main digital tool providing information and access to digital procedures to SMEs seeking to complete EU and national level formalities. In 2023, the Commission launched a technical system[5] allowing national authorities to apply the once-only principle to a wide range of formalities.

    The Commission systematically involves SME organisations in policymaking. The network of SME Envoys[6] brings together EU and Member States’ officials and SME organisations to promote SME-friendly regulation and policies.

    Some SME organisations are members of the Fit for Future platform[7]. Collecting direct input from companies, including through SME panel consultations, is equally important for the Commission.

    The Regulatory Scrutiny Board has already been strengthened with two additional board members with the aim to allow an enhanced focus on competitiveness.

    • [1] Political guidelines for the next European Commission 2024-2029, https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/e6cd4328-673c-4e7a-8683-f63ffb2cf648_en?filename=Political%20Guidelines%202024-2029_EN.pdf
    • [2] https://commission.europa.eu/law/law-making-process/planning-and-proposing-law/better-regulation/better-regulation-guidelines-and-toolbox_en
    • [3] Su ch costs are presented in Annex 3 of impact assessment reports accompanying Commission proposals.
    • [4] Your Europe at https://europa.eu/youreurope/index.htm was the Commission ’s most visited website in 2023.
    • [5] https://ec.europa.eu/digital-building-blocks/sites/display/DIGITAL/Once+Only+Technical+System
    • [6] https://ec.europa.eu/transparency/expert-groups-register/screen/expert-groups/consult?lang=en&do=groupDetail.groupDetail&groupID=2666
    • [7] https://commission.europa.eu/law/law-making-process/evaluating-and-improving-existing-laws/refit-making-eu-law-simpler-less-costly-and-future-proof/fit-future-platform-f4f/composition/fit-future-platform-stakeholder-group-0_en
    Last updated: 16 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Cancellation of tender for the construction of Regional Civil Protection Operations Centres and risk of loss of funding from the Recovery Fund – E-001463/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In 2020, the General Secretariat for Civil Protection of the Ministry of Citizen Protection of Greece requested financial assistance under the Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM) and received EUR 750 000 to develop a National Disaster Risk Management Plan for Greece, which was successfully completed in 2021.

    This has helped Greece accessing funds for risk prevention and resilience under the European Cohesion Policy Funds (2021-2027). Following the 2023 wildfires, the General Secretariat for Civil Protection of Greece requested a UCPM Peer Review focused on the Greek wildfire risk management system, which was released on 20 June 2024[1].

    The Commission is monitoring the implementation of the Recovery and Resilience Fund (RRF) investment which co-funds the construction of the Regional Civil Protection Operations Centres, and is in regular contact with the Greek authorities to ensure that the investment is fully implemented within the RRF timeline. This process is ongoing.

    • [1] https://civil-protection-knowledge-network.europa.eu/news/ucpm-wildfire-peer-review-report-handed-over-greek-authorities
    Last updated: 16 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Overall outcome of climate policy action over two decades – E-001582/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Analyses on the effectiveness of climate mitigation policies are welcomed and can contribute towards the EUs climate-neutrality objectives.

    The Commission routinely follows methodological developments in policy analysis, including those exploiting artificial intelligence, striving to incorporate new techniques in its work, including for the preparation of climate action proposals.

    The Commission notes the conclusion on the potential for synergies with the implementation of coherent policy packages. This re-affirms the EU’s approach under the fit for 55 package, implementing a broad range of measures to tackle climate change. Combining pricing and non-pricing measures, such as standards and mandates, can maximise synergistic effects.

    The study underlines the effectiveness of carbon pricing, such as the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS[1]), in lowering emissions, particularly in electricity generation and industry.

    The Commission also notes the finding that the impact of a specific policy tool may be heterogenous across sectors and countries, calling for caution against overgeneralising estimated effects.

    Furthermore, the employed methodology is not fine-tuned to detect smaller emissions reductions, meaning many effective measures with a smaller scope or a more gradual impact on emissions have not been highlighted.

    The headline figure identifying only 63 cases of effective interventions is therefore very likely underestimated, with elements of efficient EU climate action most probably being overlooked.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/EN/legal-content/summary/eu-emissions-trading-system.html
    Last updated: 16 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Establishment of protection zones along rivers and streams in the EU – E-001571/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) is protected by the Habitats Directive[1]. It is listed in its Annex II as a species of Community interest whose conservation requires the designation of Natura 2000 sites and in Annex V as a species of Community interest whose taking in the wild and exploitation may be subject to management measures.

    In Natura 2000 sites, Member States must take appropriate steps to avoid deterioration of habitats and significant disturbance of species for which the sites have been designated. They may also decide on additional designation of protection zones alongside rivers and streams, outside Natura 2000 sites.

    There are 19 Natura 2000 sites designated for the protection of the freshwater pearl mussel in Finland, but none of these sites comprises the population of the freshwater pearl mussel at Hukkajoki river.

    In addition, the regulation on Nature Restoration[2] requires Member States to put in place measures for restoration of terrestrial, coastal and freshwater habitats of species listed in Annex II, IV or V to the Habitats Directive, therefore including habitats of the freshwater pearl mussel, necessary to improve the quality and quantity of those habitats, including by re-establishing them and to enhance connectivity. Measures taken to comply with above-mentioned legislation may include establishment of protection zones alongside rivers and streams.

    • [1] Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora. OJ L 206, 22.7.1992, p. 7-50.
    • [2] Regulation (EU) 2024/1991 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 June 2024 on nature restoration and amending Regulation (EU) 2022/869. OJ L, 2024/1991.
    Last updated: 16 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Strengthening the competitiveness of Europe’s agricultural sector – E-001491/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Common Agricultural Policy has a plethora of tools to support and improve the competitiveness of European farmers. Beyond direct income support with different complementary payments for farmers facing specific challenges, access to finance via financial instruments and support for innovation as well as farm advisory services. The Commission will continue its focus on strengthening the EU food system’s competitiveness, resilience, and sustainability. In its first 100 days, the Commission will publish a communication on a Vision for Agriculture and Food outlining a long-term perspective for the sector and addressing imbalances in the food chain. This communication will take stock of the recommendations from the recent report of the Strategic Dialogue on the future of EU Agriculture[1], present a first assessment of feasible proposals and build bridges with other policy areas, in order to ensure the long-term competitiveness and sustainability of EU agriculture, highlighting its strategic role in the new geopolitical context.

    2. The enlargement process will need to be carefully managed so that the internal market and a common agricultural policy are maintained, avoiding undue shocks and with careful consideration of competitive pressure. It will therefore require a thorough impact assessment of its long-term effects on the viability of agriculture in the EU-27 and in the acceding countries to properly address any identified challenges. The enlargement process will also take time and is merit-based, which will allow for gradual integration of Ukraine in order to mitigate any unwanted shocks Finally, as any candidate country, Ukraine will have to apply the EU acquis in full at accession. This includes all EU requirements in the area of agriculture in force at that time.

    Last updated: 16 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Review of the Bathing Water Directive – E-001540/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Bathing Water Directive (BWD)[1] is part of the EU acquis to protect and manage Europe’s waters. Its evaluation is a comprehensive exercise, which is taking into account the ongoing evaluation of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive[2], the recent revisions of the Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive[3], currently finalised by the co-legislators through the corrigendum procedure, and of the Industrial Emissions Directive[4], the Commission proposal[5] on the lists of pollutants regulated under the Water Framework Directive[6] via the Environment Quality Standards Directive[7], and the Groundwater Directive[8]. The timeline announced during the preparation of the evaluation was indicative. The Commission is in the process of finalising the evaluation.

    2. As per the BWD review roadmap[9] the ongoing evaluation of the BWD is assessing the achieved level of health protection and whether additional pollution parameters (including chemicals) may help provide a better picture of the actual state of the water in bathing areas. The findings of this analysis will be as appropriate presented in the Commission evaluation report.

    • [1] Directive 2006/7/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 February 2006 concerning the management of bathing water quality and repealing Directive 76/160/EEC, OJ L 64, 4.3.2006, p. 37-51.
    • [2] Directive 2008/56/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 June 2008 establishing a framework for community action in the field of marine environmental policy, OJ L 164, 25.6.2008, p. 19-40: https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/12898-Protecting-the-marine-environment-review-of-EU-rules_en
    • [3] https://environment.ec.europa.eu/publications/proposal-revised-urban-wastewater-treatment-directive_en
    • [4] Directive (EU) 2024/1785 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 April 2024 amending Directive 2010/75/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council on industrial emissions (integrated pollution prevention and control) and Council Directive 1999/31/EC on the landfill of waste, OJ L, 2024/1785, 15.7.2024.
    • [5] https://environment.ec.europa.eu/publications/proposal-amending-water-directives_en
    • [6] Directive 2000/60/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2000 establishing a framework for Community action in the field of water policy, OJ L 327, 22.12.2000, p. 1-73, as amended by Commission Directive 2014/101/EU of 30 October 2014, OJ L 311, 31.10.2014, p. 32-35.
    • [7] Directive 2013/39/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 August 2013 amending Directives 2000/60/EC and 2008/105/EC as regards priority substances in the field of water policy, OJ L 226, 24.8.2013, p. 1-17.
    • [8] Directive 2006/118/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 December 2006 on the protection of groundwater against pollution and deterioration, OJ L 372, 27.12.2006, p. 19-31.
    • [9] Combined evaluation roadmap/Inception impact assessment: https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/12658-Bathing-water-quality-review-of-EU-rules_en
    Last updated: 16 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Ensuring significant advances during the upcoming 47th Annual Session of the GFCM (4-8 November 2024, Rome) – E-001674/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Commission is investing significant resources in support of the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) 2030 Strategy. The EU voluntary contribution to GFCM, through the EU Grant, has been and will remain instrumental for the implementation of the GFCM management and control measures, the protection of vulnerable species and habitats and the implementation of the subregional approach of the 2030 Strategy.

    2. Under EU leadership, the GFCM has launched a consolidation process of the overall compliance framework, notably the international inspection schemes, under the umbrella of the Compliance Committee, aimed to ensure full implementation of existing management and control measures, transparency and level playing field, based on the examples of good practices from other regional fisheries management organisations (RFMOs). All these objectives are supported by concrete actions in the GFCM work programme for the next years, to be adopted at the annual session.

    3. The Commission aims at promoting the EU fisheries control standards and best practices at the level of the GFCM, including for the modernisation of control tools and implementation of new technologies by all contracting parties. To this end, in May 2024, the EU presented in the Compliance Committee the new EU requirements for the control of small-scale fisheries. The Commission will continue promoting the future uptake in the GFCM framework of innovative digital solutions, including for reporting catches and geo-localisation of fishing vessels.

    Last updated: 16 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Leaders from 120 Member Countries to attend the Seventh Session of the International Solar Alliance Assembly in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Leaders from 120 Member Countries to attend the Seventh Session of the International Solar Alliance Assembly in New Delhi  

    ISA has evolved into a key platform for global solar cooperation, now encompassing 120 Member & Signatory Countries : Union Minister Pralhad Joshi

    Seventh Session of ISA will held in New Delhi from from 3rd to 6th November 2024

    Posted On: 16 OCT 2024 7:01PM by PIB Delhi

    The curtain raiser for the Seventh Session of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Assembly was hosted today in New Delhi. Representatives from 60 countries participated in the event. 

    The assembly will be presided over by Shri Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy. The Seventh Session of the ISA Assembly is set to be a truly global event. Ministers, missions, and delegates from 120 Member and Signatory Countries, along with partner organisations and stakeholders, will come together to focus on initiatives to improve energy access, security, and transition.

    Shri Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy & President of the ISA Assembly, addressed the august gathering, stating, “ISA has evolved into a key platform for global solar cooperation, now encompassing 120 Member & Signatory Countries. This growing commitment demonstrates solar energy’s significant role in addressing our shared energy access challenges and the adverse effects of climate change. The progress made by ISA’s Member Countries in adopting solar energy is remarkable. Solar energy, available year-round and in abundance in some of our Member Countries, holds the potential to be the game-changer in the theatre of global climate action. Its attributes of being clean, reliable, free and easily accessible to all make it central to achieving universal energy access. Our efforts through the ISA focus on expanding solar infrastructure, creating green jobs, supporting livelihoods, and mitigating climate impacts.”

     

     

    Under the presidency of the Republic of India and co-presidency of the Republic of France, the seventh session of the International Solar Alliance Assembly will be held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, India, from 03 November to 06 November 2024. Ministers, mission heads, and senior government officials from 120 Member and Signatory Countries, prospective countries, partner organisations, the private sector, and key stakeholders will participate.

     

    Shri Ajay Yadav, Joint Secretary, MNRE, Government of India, in his opening remarks, noted, “Global solar deployment presents its challenges: investments, infrastructure, and indigenisation. Countering these challenges demands targeted efforts to support the sector’s expansion. Further highlighting ISA’s role and substantial contributions, he said, “To address these challenges through various programmes, initiatives, and collaborations with governments, private enterprises, and international organisations and by working with its Member Countries, ISA creates opportunities to diversify global supply chains and boost solar energy demand, contributing to manufacturing capacity growth.” Elaborating on the focused efforts, he added, “We proudly count 120 among our Member & Signatory Countries, with 102 ratifying the ISA Framework Agreement, showcasing our growing global influence. With the firm support of Member Countries, ISA has successfully launched initiatives to accelerate solar adoption, foster innovation, and enhance capacity-building efforts.”

    Dr Ajay Mathur, Director General of the International Solar Alliance, said, “The International Solar Alliance stands at the forefront of global efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDGs 7 & 13 on affordable and clean energy and climate action respectively. The International Solar Alliance is a force for change. It harmonises and aggregates demand for solar finance, technologies, innovation, research and development, and capacity building. This initiative is more than just a coalition; it is a revolutionary movement reshaping our energy landscape and our planet’s future. Adding further, he said, “As we approach the mark to last five years to realise the goals defined by the 2030 Agenda, this session of the ISA Assembly is an important nudge to accelerate our actions and raise our ambitions. All stakeholders must make this decade count in favour of climate action. Our work at the ISA directly supports the implementation of the Paris Agreement and contributes to the broader UN framework for sustainable development. ISA is working with Member Countries to help shape conducive policies to bring in investments in solar energy, a sustainable pipeline of solar-powered projects, and help build skills to sustain solar projects in the long term.”

    At this assembly, the fulcrum of the discussions will be the means and modes that will be adopted to accelerate solar deployment across Member Countries, especially in regions with limited energy access.  Additionally, updates on the following ISA’s flagship initiatives for entrepreneurs, skill enhancement and capacity building, mobilising finance, and advocacy for solar as energy as a choice will be presented:

    • SolarX Startup Challenge, launched by ISA in collaboration with Invest India in 2022, at COP27 in Egypt, the challenge aims to foster entrepreneurship by supporting scalable and replicable solar energy business models in ISA’s Member Countries.
    • The STAR-C initiative, launched in 2022 by ISA, UNIDO, and the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, France, aims to build capacity and align skills with national training needs. It enhances quality infrastructure and standards for photovoltaic and solar thermal products to drive economic growth and job creation.
    • Global Solar Facility: launched in 2022, enhances solar investments in underserved regions, particularly Africa, using tools like the Solar Payment Guarantee Fund and Solar Insurance Fund.
    • The First International Solar Festival, launched in September 2024, brought together corporates, academia, youth, community leaders, and other stakeholders to exchange ideas, promoting creativity and international cooperation for a future driven by solar energy.

     

    The Assembly’s seventh session will be followed by a day-long series of sessions styled as a ‘High-Level Conference on New Technologies for Clean Energy Transition’ on 5 November 2024 hosted in collaboration with the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, the Government of India, the Asian Development Bank, and the International Solar Energy Society. The conference’s third edition will be attended by the ministerial delegations of the ISA Member Countries, policymakers, subject matter experts, and industry leaders. Through its deliberations, the Conference aims to inspire real-world change and make significant strides toward achieving global climate goals by fostering collaboration, sparking innovation, and sharing knowledge by focusing on promoting solar energy to cut carbon emissions, find ways to expand energy access and boost economic growth. The Conference will also witness the release of the third edition of ISA’s World Solar Reports on Technology, Finance, and Markets.

    The Assembly proceedings will conclude on 6 November 2024 with a visit to a farm site on the outskirts of New Delhi showcasing the practical implementation of agrivoltaic systems. The site in Najafgarh is maintained by the India Agrivoltaics Alliance, an initiative of the National Solar Energy Federation of India (NSEFI), along with like-minded organisations dedicated to advancing the concept of agrivoltaics in India, which involves the simultaneous use of land for both agriculture and solar energy generation.

    ABOUT THE ISA ASSEMBLY

    The Assembly is the apex decision-making body of ISA, representing each Member Country. This body makes decisions concerning the implementation of the ISA’s Framework Agreement and coordinated actions to be taken to achieve its objective. The Assembly meets annually at the ministerial level at the ISA’s seat. It assesses the aggregate effect of the programmes and other activities in terms of deployment of solar energy, performance, reliability, cost and scale of finance. 120 countries are signatories to the ISA Framework Agreement, of which 102 countries have submitted the necessary instruments of ratification to become full members of the ISA. The Republic of India holds the office of the President of the ISA Assembly, with the Government of the French Republic as the co-president.

    The Seventh Session of the ISA Assembly will deliberate on initiatives of ISA that impact energy access, security, and transitions with a focus on:

    • Empowering Member Countries to adopt solar energy as the energy source of choice
    • Make energy access universal by supporting solar entrepreneurs to scale up local solutions
    • Mobilise finance to speed up solar deployment

    ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL SOLAR ALLIANCE

    The International Solar Alliance is an international organisation with 120 Member & Signatory Countries. It works with governments to improve energy access and security worldwide and promote solar power as a sustainable way to transition to a carbon-neutral future.

    ISA’s mission is to unlock US$ 1 trillion of investments in solar by 2030 while reducing the cost of the technology and its financing. It promotes the use of solar energy in the agriculture, health, transport and power generation sectors. ISA Member Countries are driving change by enacting policies and regulations, sharing best practices, agreeing on common standards, and mobilising investments. Through this work, ISA has identified and designed and tested new business models for solar projects; supported governments to make their energy legislation and policies solar-friendly through Ease of Doing Solar analytics and advisory; pooled demand for solar technology from different countries, and drove down costs; improved access to finance by reducing the risks and making the sector more attractive to private investment; increased access to solar training, data and insights for solar engineers and energy policymakers.

    ISA was formed at the 21st Conference of Parties (COP21) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) held in Paris in 2015 and is partnering with multilateral development banks (MDBs), development financial institutions (DFIs), private and public sector organisations, civil society, and other international institutions to deploy cost-effective and transformational energy solutions powered by the sun, especially in the least Developed Countries (LDCs) and the Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

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    Navin Sreejith

     

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Single European Sky 2+ package – 16-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    The Single European Sky (SES) initiative seeks to make EU airspace less fragmented and to improve air traffic management in terms of safety, capacity, cost-efficiency and the environment. Its current regulatory framework is based on two legislative packages: SES I (adopted in 2004), which set up the principal legal framework, and SES II (adopted in 2009), which aimed to tackle substantial air traffic growth, increase safety, and reduce costs and delays and the impact of air traffic on the environment. Nonetheless, European airspace remains fragmented, costly and inefficient. The European Commission presented a revision of the SES in 2013 (the SES 2+ package). While the Parliament adopted its first-reading position in March 2014, in December 2014 the Council agreed only a partial general approach, owing to disagreement between the UK and Spain over the application of the text to Gibraltar Airport. Once Brexit removed this blockage, the Commission amended its initial proposal. Following lengthy negotiations, the Council and Parliament negotiating teams reached a provisional agreement on 6 March 2024. The Council approved the agreed text on 26 September 2024. It now needs to be approved by Parliament. Fourth edition of a briefing originally drafted by Maria Niestadt. The ‘EU Legislation in Progress’ briefings are updated at key stages throughout the legislative procedure.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Suspension of the Altri project in A Ulloa for potential breach of EU legislation and the project’s serious environmental and socio-economic consequences – E-001598/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    As the Commission stated in its reply to Written Question E-001055/2024, it appears from the available information on the project referred to by the Honourable Member that the relevant environmental impact assessment procedure pursuant to the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Directive[1] is currently underway and the project has not received development consent at this point. It is therefore too early to verify compliance with the applicable EU law.

    The Commission expects the responsible regional authorities to ensure that a robust environmental impact assessment be conducted in light of all relevant environmental objectives to ensure that the project complies with applicable legislation, particularly the Nature[2] and the Water Framework[3] Directives.

    Regarding the main water body potentially impacted by the project, reported to be in less than good ecological potential, the authorities must in principle ensure that no further deterioration occurs and that the project does not prevent it from reaching good status.

    Without prejudice to the Commission’s role as guardian of the Treaties, Member States are primarily responsible to ensure compliance with EU law.

    National means of redress are available, and, in case of alleged breaches of the law, the competent national Courts could order the suspension of the project, where appropriate.

    • [1] Directive 2011/92/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 December 2011 on the assessment of the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment. OJ L 26, 28.1.2012, p. 1-21, as amended by Directive 2014/52/EU of 16 April 2014 — OJ L 124, 25.4.2014, p. 1-18.
    • [2] Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora (OJ L 206, 22.7.1992, p. 7-50); Directive 2009/147/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 November 2009 on the conservation of wild birds (Codified version), OJ L 20, 26.1.2010, p. 7-25
    • [3] Directive 2000/60/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2000 establishing a framework for Community action in the field of water policy — OJ L 327, 22.12.2000, p. 1-73.
    Last updated: 16 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Provision imposing restrictions on commercial operations in the port of Larnaca and the payment of state compensation to a private company and whether this is in breach of European legislation – E-001707/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission would like to recall that not all public funding involves state aid within the meaning of Article 107(1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union.

    In general, it is for Member States to assess if a measure involves state aid and in advance of any granting to notify to the Commission for assessment, unless such measure is covered by block exemptions, which can be implemented without prior Commission scrutiny.

    In the absence of a preliminary examination conducted under its state aid powers, the Commission cannot take a position on whether the fee paid by the Cypriot government complies with EU State aid rules.

    Last updated: 16 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: First-ever International conference – Advancements of Research & Global Opportunities for Holistic Ayurveda – AROHA-2024 to start tomorrow in Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 16 OCT 2024 7:36PM by PIB Delhi

    All India Institute of Ayurveda, New Delhi is organising its first-ever International conference – Advancements of Research & Global Opportunities for Holistic Ayurveda – AROHA-2024 starting tomorrow from Thursday 17th October to 19th October 2024. This distinguished event will feature in-person and virtual participation, offering an unparalleled opportunity for participants. The discourse will be centered on the theme ” Advancements in Research and Global Opportunities for Holistic Ayurveda” in this global event.

    The event will be inaugurated by Dr. Justice Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud, Hon’ble Chief Justice of India. He will be joined by esteemed guests, including Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Ayush and Health & Family Welfare; Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush; and Dr. Shyama Kuruvilla, Director (ad interim) of the Global Traditional Medicine Centre, WHO, Jamnagar, Gujarat. Additionally, Lt. Gen. Madhuri Kanitkar, Vice Chancellor, Maharashtra University of Health Sciences (MUHS); Padma Bhushan Prof. Shiv Kumar Sarin, Director, ILBS; and Dr. Devendra Triguna will also grace the event.

    “AROHA-2024 will align with AIIA’s vision of positioning Ayurveda as a key pillar of global health and wellness. The conference will bring together scholars, industry leaders, and Ayurveda experts from Japan, Colombia, Australia, Germany, Sri Lanka, and Argentina will participate to explore the integration of traditional Ayurvedic wisdom with modern scientific advancements.” AIIA director Prof. (Dr.) Tanuja Nesari said.

    The conference agenda covers a wide range of topics, including Ayurveda, ethnomedicine, quality control, standardization, diagnosis, drug delivery, evidence-based understanding, and globalization. Experienced experts will share practical and  theoretical knowledge on Ayurvedic practices.

    The conference features three-day workshops and 16 scientific sessions, with over 400 research papers to be presented. The All India Institute of Ayurveda has a global presence in over 17 countries through academic and scientific collaborations with prominent organizations like the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, FIGZ Germany, AIST Japan, Western Sydney University Australia, UHN Canada, and national institutions like IGIB, AIIMS, CSIR, IIT, etc.

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    MV/AKS

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Teaching qualification disparities in the European Union – E-001997/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001997/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Valentina Palmisano (The Left)

    Mission 4, Component 1, Reform 2.1 of the Italian National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) provides for a new system for the recruitment of teachers that is based on the provision of teaching qualifications through specific training courses.

    However, to obtain qualifications quickly, many aspiring Italian teachers turn to online universities and foreign training centres, particularly in Romania and Spain, which do not meet the minimum training requirements, bypassing selection procedures for entry, traineeships and final examinations.

    Problems with the circumvention of the minimum criteria laid down in legislation also concern specialisation courses on support, TFAs: according to a number of reports, there are centres offering accelerated, very short courses and arrangements that raise serious doubts about the quality and regularity of the qualifications issued.

    These practices could undermine the quality of teaching and breach EU provisions on the recognition of professional qualifications.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of these disparities in teaching qualifications obtained by Italian citizens from other countries and of their possible impact on the quality of education in the EU?
    • 2.What steps will the Commission take to ensure that qualifications issued in other Member States conform to EU rules and to prevent practices that undermine teaching quality and mutual recognition of professional qualifications?

    Submitted: 9.10.2024

    Last updated: 16 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Unreasonably high pay and non-transparent procedure for selection of special adviser to the Commission President – E-001889/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001889/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Michał Dworczyk (ECR)

    EUR 149 963.66 – that is the amount that mediaeval history professor Peter Strohschneider received for 154 days’ work on the ‘Strategic Dialogue for the Future of EU Agriculture’ report commissioned by the Commission President. Ursula von der Leyen approved a daily rate for the German expert of EUR 973.79, which exceeds the maximum rate of EUR 594.22 normally given to special advisers to the Commission. While the rules allow the Commission to increase remuneration in ‘duly justified exceptional circumstances’, it is worth noting that the Commission also works with renowned experts on an unpaid basis, for example Mario Draghi, author of the report on European competitiveness. The amount paid to Professor Strohschneider is shocking. What is more, special advisers are selected arbitrarily. The selection process is not regulated in any way and depends solely on the Commissioner and the President. A lack of transparency in the Commission President’s activities seems to be a recurring issue: in July 2024, the General Court of the European Union criticised von der Leyen for not being sufficiently transparent when concluding multi-billion-euro contracts to purchase COVID-19 vaccines.

    In light of the above:

    • 1.How does the Commission justify the exceptionally high remuneration that Professor Strohschneider received, considering that other special advisers work unpaid?
    • 2.Why exactly was a history professor tasked with a report on the future of EU farming?
    • 3.Does the Commission recognise that the lack of transparency and clear criteria in the selection of special advisers could potentially lead to abuse and is inconsistent with standard employment regulations in the EU institutions?

    Submitted: 1.10.2024

    Last updated: 16 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Restart A Heart Day – 16 October 2024 – Subcommittee on Public Health

    Source: European Parliament

    The Restart A Heart Day is dedicated to raising awareness about cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the importance of knowing how to restart a heart that has stopped beating.

    This day serves as a reminder that anyone can learn basic CPR skills and potentially save a life in the event of a cardiac arrest. Restart a Heart Day encourages individuals, schools, organizations, and communities to participate in CPR training and to become equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to respond to emergencies effectively.

    MIL OSI Europe News –