NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Dejiang County Finds New Opportunities for Tea Industry Development in Kyrgyzstan Market

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, June 13 (Xinhua) — The Kyrgyz market has provided new opportunities for the development of the tea industry in Dejiang County, Tongren City, southwest China’s Guizhou Province, according to the county government’s press service.

    This week, the local company Honghuchun sent 25 tons of black tea to Kyrgyzstan, thus, tea products from this county will appear on the Central Asian market for the first time.

    The batch of tea will first arrive in Kashi /Kashgar/ in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and, after customs clearance, will be sent to Kyrgyzstan.

    By the end of this year, Honghuchun plans to supply about 190 tons of tea to the international market. The list of main importers includes Central Asian countries, Russia, Vietnam and Malaysia, said Hong Jianwei, chairman of the company. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Xi Jinping offers condolences to British King Charles III over Indian air crash

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, June 13 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday sent a message of condolences to Britain’s King Charles III over the deaths of many Britons in the crash of an Air India plane.

    In his message, the Chinese leader said he was shocked to learn of the crash of the Air India plane, which resulted in the deaths of many Britons.

    On behalf of the Chinese government and people, Xi Jinping expressed deep sorrow for the victims, expressed sincere condolences to the families of the victims and the injured, and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

    Chinese Premier Li Qiang also sent a message of condolences to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Friday. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Indian Home Minister Confirms Plane Crash Survivor

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    NEW DELHI, June 13 (Xinhua) — Indian Home Minister Amit Shah said he has met the sole survivor of a plane crash that occurred in the western state of Gujarat on Thursday.

    “Air India flight AI-171 crashed this afternoon and it is feared that many passengers have lost their lives. The entire country mourns and supports the families of the victims,” he told reporters. “There were 230 passengers and 12 crew members on board. The good news is that one passenger survived the crash and I met him. The death toll will be announced after proper DNA testing,” the home minister added.

    A. Shah noted that attempts to save people failed because 125,000 liters of fuel caught fire when the plane crashed and the temperature rose to extreme levels. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Black box of crashed Air India plane found – local media

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    NEW DELHI, June 13 (Xinhua) — Aviation authorities have recovered one of the two black boxes from the Air India plane that crashed in the western Indian state of Gujarat, local newspaper Hindustan Times reported.

    The plane, bound for London, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad International Airport on Thursday afternoon.

    “One of the two black boxes, located in the tail section of the plane, was found and placed under secure guard. The Main Directorate of Civil Aviation will take away equipment to analyze the recordings. The second black box, located in the front section of the plane, has yet to be found,” the newspaper writes, citing a source.

    There were 169 Indians, 53 Britons, seven Portuguese and one Canadian on board the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner that crashed on the grounds of a medical college, as well as two pilots and 10 flight attendants.

    Air India confirmed on Friday that all 241 people on board were killed in the crash. The sole survivor is being treated in hospital.

    The Air Accident Investigation Bureau of the Indian government is investigating the cause of the incident.

    Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg said he spoke with Air India Chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran after the crash and expressed his willingness to support the Indian government’s investigation.

    The 12-year-old Boeing 787-8 aircraft with tail number AI171 fell from a height of about 250 meters after takeoff and crashed on the territory of the medical college, causing serious damage to buildings.

    One person was killed at the college, at least nine were missing and 50 were injured, according to a local medical organization. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The UN General Assembly has adopted a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    UNITED NATIONS, June 13 (Xinhua) — The United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution at an emergency special session on Thursday calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and large-scale humanitarian access.

    The document calls for “an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire that must be respected by all parties.”

    It strongly condemns the use of starvation of civilians as a method of warfare and the unlawful denial of humanitarian access. The resolution stresses that the parties should not deprive civilians in the Gaza Strip of the items necessary for survival, including by deliberately obstructing the delivery of and access to humanitarian assistance.

    It is noted that, in accordance with international law, the occupying power is obliged to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches all people in need. The resolution calls for immediate and continued facilitation of the full, rapid, safe and unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid throughout the Gaza Strip and its delivery to all Palestinian civilians.

    The document demands that Israel, as the occupying power, immediately end the blockade, open all border crossings and ensure the immediate and massive flow of aid to the Palestinian civilian population throughout the Gaza Strip.

    The need for accountability to ensure Israel’s compliance with its obligations under international law is emphasized and in this regard, all UN Member States, individually and collectively, are called upon to take all necessary measures to ensure Israel’s compliance with its obligations.

    The resolution was adopted by 149 votes in favor, 12 against and 19 abstentions. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Special Report: Continuation of a thousand-year friendship and a new chapter in the history of the era – on Xi Jinping’s trip to Kazakhstan to participate in the 2nd China-Central Asia Summit

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    Beijing, June 13 /Xinhua/ — At the invitation of President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Chinese President Xi Jinping will be in Astana from June 16 to 18 to attend the 2nd China-Central Asia (CA) Summit.

    Over a thousand years, the people of China and Central Asia have created the glory of the ancient Silk Road and written a magnificent chapter in the history of exchanges between civilizations. With deep historical roots, a solid foundation of public support and a wide range of practical needs, China’s relations with Central Asian countries have gained vitality and vigor in the new era.

    Two years ago, the 1st China-Central Asia Summit was successfully held in Xi’an, ushering in a new era of China-Central Asia relations. Over the past two years, cooperation between China and the region has achieved tangible results. Now, as promised, the 2nd summit will be held in Astana, pushing the six countries to move forward on a new path of building a China-Central Asia community with a shared future.

    In the time between the Xi’an and Astana summits, the roadmap for action has become clearer and the steps forward more powerful. Xi Jinping and the heads of the five Central Asian states must develop a new plan for cooperation that opens up new opportunities for peace and development in the region, brings valuable confidence to a changing world, and charts a brighter future for the progress of human civilization.

    A UNITED DESIRE TO PASS ON MILLENNIAL FRIENDSHIP

    More than 2,100 years ago, the journey of Zhang Qian, an emissary of the Han Dynasty, to the western lands opened the door for friendly exchanges between China and Central Asia.

    In the autumn of 2013, Xi Jinping visited four Central Asian countries and in Kazakhstan for the first time put forward the initiative to build the Silk Road Economic Belt, awakening ancient memories and drawing a blueprint for a dream.

    Over the past 10 years, Xi Jinping has visited Central Asia many times and maintained close ties with the leaders of Central Asian countries. China and the countries of the region have joined forces to comprehensively revive the Silk Road and deepen cooperation, which has ushered in a new era in relations between the two sides.

    Today, China has established a comprehensive strategic partnership, signed cooperation documents for the joint construction of the Belt and Road, and is implementing the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind bilaterally with each of the five Central Asian countries. This signifies the height of political mutual trust, the depth of good-neighborliness, and the breadth of practical cooperation between China and these countries.

    Friendship is the fruit of common views and common aspirations. As Xi Jinping noted, “deepening cooperation between China and Central Asian countries is a strategic choice of our generation of leaders, made with an eye to the future, in line with global trends and in response to the aspirations of the people.”

    In 2020, China put forward an initiative to create a “China-CA” mechanism. In July of the same year, the first meeting of the foreign ministers of China and the Central Asian countries via video link was held, at which the launch of regular meetings in this format was announced.

    In January 2022, Xi Jinping held a video summit with the leaders of five Central Asian countries to mark the 30th anniversary of the establishment of interstate diplomatic relations. During the talks, proposals were made to raise the status of the mechanism to the level of heads of state. “Always based on mutual respect, good neighborliness and friendship, unity in the face of challenges, mutual benefit and win-win,” this is how the head of China explained the secret to the success of cooperation between China and the Central Asian countries.

    In May 2023, at the 1st China-CA Summit, Xi Jinping detailed China’s foreign policy toward Central Asian countries and agreed with the leaders of the five countries to jointly build a closer community with a shared future for China and Central Asia. The mechanism of meetings at the level of heads of state was formally established. Xi Jinping put forward four proposals for regional development and four principles for building a community with a shared future, which received a warm response from other leaders.

    The Xi’an Declaration, a number of multi- and bilateral documents, key agreements on the most important areas of cooperation… The Xi’an meeting became a bright page in the thousand-year history of friendly contacts between China and the Central Asian states and gave a powerful impetus to peace and stability not only in the region, but also on the entire planet.

    The content of China-Central Asia cooperation is constantly enriched based on the principles of joint consultation, joint construction and joint use, and its structure is constantly improved. At the recent 6th meeting of the foreign ministers of China and Central Asian countries in Almaty, the parties highly appreciated the level of mutual trust and solidarity, as well as the important role of the China-Central Asia mechanism, expressing their readiness to further unleash the potential of partnership and create new milestones in building a community with a shared future.

    The China-CA format demonstrates practical results despite the relative “youth” of the mechanism. The personal participation of the leaders of the countries emphasizes mutual respect and the desire to deepen the partnership. This approach allows coordinating the positions of countries on key issues of our time, strengthening trust between countries and with each other, and forming a unified approach to regional security and development. In addition, the personal participation of the leaders in the formation of the China-CA mechanism emphasizes its strategic importance. This creates a new model of multilateral interaction in Eurasia, contributing to stability and development of the region. “Therefore, confidence is growing that the summit in Astana will expand the horizons of cooperation between our countries and give a new impetus to achieving practical results for the benefit of the population of the region,” said Sheradil Baktygulov, Director of the Kyrgyz Institute of World Politics.

    HAND IN HAND TOWARDS MODERNIZATION

    On April 29 this year, work began in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan’s Jalal-Abad region to lay three tunnels on the Kyrgyz section of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, marking the project’s transition to the construction phase.

    This major infrastructure project within the framework of the Belt and Road initiative, promoted personally by the heads of the three states, has become a symbol of the convergence of interests of the three countries and embodies the desire of their peoples for interconnectedness and common prosperity. According to the Director of the Department of Land and Water Transport under the Ministry of Transport and Communications of Kyrgyzstan Tariel Keldibekov, the railway will rebuild the logistics network in the region. Acting Deputy Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Political Council of UzLiDeP Jamoliddin Meliboev emphasized that the project is evidence of deepening mutual trust and practical cooperation between China and the Central Asian countries.

    “The world needs a transport-connected Central Asia,” Xi Jinping said at the 1st China-CA summit. The above-mentioned railway is being built, trains regularly depart from different regions of China to Central Asian countries, the Kazakhstan terminal in Xi’an has been put into operation, and the construction of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route is actively advancing… China and the Central Asian countries are consistently deepening their interconnectedness.

    Taking the high-quality construction of the Belt and Road as a new starting point, China and Central Asian countries are intensifying cooperation at an unprecedented speed and intensity. The two sides are jointly building a path to modernization and common development.

    An increasingly dense network of transport routes is becoming a bridge for trade. With the help of uninterrupted rail, road and air transport, Chinese products – from household appliances and everyday goods to electric cars – are constantly flowing into Central Asia, and high-quality Central Asian goods such as fertilizers, cotton, beef and lamb are increasingly finding their way to the Chinese market… According to the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China, in 2024, trade turnover between China and the Central Asian countries reached $94.8 billion, an increase of $5.4 billion compared to the previous year and a new historical maximum.

    38-year-old Kazakh farmer Sergey told reporters that in recent years he began cooperating with Chinese companies, introducing a “contract farming” model: he grows grain crops according to the demands of the Chinese market and receives agricultural support from Chinese specialists. This helped solve problems with growing grain and selling it.

    According to Abdugani Mamadazimov, Chairman of the National Foundation “Silk Road – the Road of Consolidation”, the “China-CA” mechanism has made a significant contribution to the stability and development of the region. “We hope that the 2nd “China-CA” summit will deepen cooperation between the parties, help continue the development of infrastructure and logistics, and also unite efforts for the sake of joint development and common prosperity,” he said.

    DEVELOPMENT OF CULTURAL EXCHANGES AND MUTUAL LEARNING BETWEEN CIVILIZATIONS

    On May 31, 2025, the first international tourist train China-Central Asia arrived from Xi’an to Almaty railway station. This event opened a series of cultural exchanges between China and Kazakhstan.

    At the 1st China-CA Summit, Xi Jinping put forward a number of initiatives, including a proposal to launch a tourist train. Deputy Chairman of the Board of JSC NC Kazakhstan Temir Zholy Anuar Akhmetzhanov expressed hope that the train will help strengthen ties between the peoples of China and the Central Asian countries and deepen their mutual understanding.

    Today, China has a visa-free regime with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. 2025 has been declared the Year of Chinese Tourism in Kazakhstan, and the Year of Uzbek Tourism in China. More and more Chinese tourists are traveling to the ancient cities of Samarkand and Bukhara, and more and more citizens of Central Asian countries are visiting China.

    The thousand-year-old Silk Road allows people to travel freely, promotes mutual understanding and cultural integration. Cooperation in education and poverty reduction, contacts on public administration issues, exchanges at the local level – deep and sustainable civilizational dialogue makes the friendship between the parties ever stronger.

    Partnerships in the field of professional education open the way to the future for Central Asian youth. In Tajikistan, the first in Central Asia “Lu Ban Workshop” has been operating for more than two years, where they teach heat supply technologies and engineering geodesy. “Lu Ban Workshop” in the East Kazakhstan region is aimed at training personnel for the automotive industry. In Astana, the second “Lu Ban Workshop” in Kazakhstan is also actively preparing to open. In Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, such workshops began operating last year, and in Turkmenistan, the project is currently underway.

    Interest in China and the Chinese language in Central Asian countries is steadily growing. China and the countries of the region are rapidly exchanging cultural centers. There are already 13 Confucius Institutes operating in Central Asia. More and more young people are seeking to get an education in China. Today, there are almost one hundred pairs of administrative-territorial units that have established sister-city relations.

    Joint restoration of ancient Khiva in Uzbekistan, joint excavations at the Kazakh archaeological complex of Rakhat, work to preserve and pass on to future generations the Kyrgyz heroic epic “Manas”… Cooperation between China and the Central Asian countries in the field of cultural heritage protection has allowed many pearls of the Silk Road to shine again.

    Uzbek political commentator Sharofiddin Tulaganov noted that the China-CA mechanism has become an important platform for mutual learning between civilizations and the rapprochement of peoples, which contributes to deepening mutual understanding and strengthening trust, and also makes a significant humanitarian contribution to peace and stability in the region.

    According to Aidar Amrebayev, Director of the Center for Political Research at the Institute of Philosophy, Political Science and Religious Studies of the Science Committee of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of Kazakhstan, the upcoming China-CA summit will give new impetus to cohesion and cooperation between China and the Central Asian countries, advance the construction of a closer community with a common destiny for China and CA, and contribute to the prosperity of the region and the improvement of global governance.

    From Xi’an to Astana, in the flow of high-quality joint construction of the “Belt and Road”, on the new path to modernization and in the dialogue of civilizations, China and the Central Asian countries are passing on the traditions of friendship and mutual support from generation to generation, making a new contribution to ensuring peace and development on the planet and promoting the progress of human civilization. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: UNOC3: “Fine words must now translate into action”, Greenpeace comment

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Nice, France, The UN Ocean Conference (UNOC) concludes today with significant progress made towards the ratification of the High Seas Treaty and a strong statement on a new plastics treaty signed by 95 governments. Once ratified, it will be the only legal tool that can create protected areas in international waters, making it fundamental to protecting 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030. 50 countries, plus the European Union, have now ratified the Treaty.

    Deep sea mining rose up the agenda in the conference debates, demonstrating the urgency of opposing this industry. The expectation from civil society and a large group of states, including both co-hosts of UNOC, was that governments would make progress towards stopping deep sea mining in Nice. UN Secretary General Guterres said the deep sea should not become the wild west. French President Macron said a deep sea mining moratorium is an international necessity. Four new countries pledged their support for a moratorium at UNOC bringing the total to 37. Attention now turns to what actions governments will take in July to stop this industry from starting.

    Megan Randles, Greenpeace Head of Delegation regarding the High Seas Treaty and progress towards stopping deep sea mining said: “High Seas Treaty ratification is within touching distance, but the progress made here in Nice feels hollow as this UN Ocean Conference ends without more tangible commitments to stopping deep sea mining. 

    “We’ve heard lots of fine words here in Nice, but these need to turn into tangible action. Countries must be brave, stand up for global cooperation and make history by stopping deep sea mining this year. They can do this by committing to a moratorium on deep sea mining at next month’s International Seabed Authority meeting. We applaud those who have already taken a stand, and urge all others to be on the right side of history by stopping deep sea mining.”

    Following this UNOC, attention now turns to the International Seabed Authority (ISA) meetings in July. In the face of The Metals Company teaming up with Trump to mine the global oceans, the upcoming ISA provides a space where governments can come together to defend the deep ocean by adopting a moratorium to stop this destructive industry.

    Negotiations on a Global Plastics Treaty resume in August. 

    John Hocevar, Oceans Campaign Director, Greenpeace USA said: “The majority of countries have spoken when they signed on to the Nice Call for an Ambitious Plastics Treaty that they want an agreement that will reduce plastic production. Now, as we end the UN Ocean Conference and head on to the Global Plastics Treaty negotiations in Geneva this August, they must act. The world cannot afford a weak treaty dictated by oil-soaked obstructionists. 

    “The ambitious majority must rise to this moment, firmly hold the line and ensure that we will have a Global Plastic Treaty that cuts plastic production, protects human health, and delivers justice for Indigenous Peoples and communities on the frontlines. Governments need to show that multilateralism still works for people and the planet, not the profits of a greedy few.”

    Nichanan Thantanwit, Project Leader, Ocean Justice Project said: “Coastal and Indigenous communities, including small-scale fishers, have protected the ocean for generations. Now they are being pushed aside by industries driving ecological collapse and human rights violations. 

    “As the UN Ocean Conference ends, governments must recognise small-scale fishers and Indigenous Peoples as rights-holders, secure their access and role in marine governance, and stop destructive practices such as bottom trawling and harmful aquaculture. There is no ocean protection without the people who have protected it all along.”

    The anticipated Nice Ocean Action Plan, which consists of a political declaration and a series of voluntary commitments, will be announced later today at the end of the conference. None will be legally binding, so governments need to act strongly during the next ISA meeting in July and at plastic treaty negotiations in August. 

    ENDS

    Photos and Video available in the Greenpeace Media Library.

    Contacts:

    James Hanson, Head of Communications, Greenpeace Protect the Oceans campaign, +44 7801 212 994, [email protected] 

    Magali Rubino, Global Media Lead, Greenpeace Protect the Oceans campaign, +33 7 78 41 78 78, [email protected] 

    Greenpeace International Press Desk: +31 (0)20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), [email protected]

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK and Scottish governments join forces to boost Scottish growth

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK and Scottish governments join forces to boost Scottish growth

    Scottish Secretary and Minister for Business co-chair business forum

    • Business and trade union groups working with governments to grow Scotland’s economy faster
    •  Murray urges new collaboration for Scotland’s defence industry

    For the first time in more than two years, the Scottish Business Growth Group was convened in Edinburgh today, bringing the UK and Scottish governments together with business leaders to discuss how they can deliver economic growth.

    The forum, jointly chaired by the Scottish Secretary Ian Murray and the Scottish Government’s Minister for Business Richard Lochhead, brings together officials from both of Scotland’s governments alongside business representatives and the Scottish Trades Union Congress. With economic growth the UK Government’s number one priority, Murray used a speech in March at the University of Edinburgh to announce that this group would be reconvened, with a fresh focus on collaboration across governments and sectors.

    During the meeting, the Scottish Secretary provided updates on recent and upcoming announcements from the UK Government and outlined their significance for businesses in Scotland. This includes the Spending Review, the Strategic Defence Review and economic opportunities for the Scottish supply chain, the recent trade deals agreed with the EU, US and India – and the modern Industrial Strategy which will be announced shortly.

    Recognising there are already a  range of areas in which the UK and Scottish governments work constructively with business, the Scottish Secretary called for collaboration in new areas which could yield significant economic benefits, such as defence.

    Murray has also been working with business groups as part of his Brand Scotland programme and last week announced that the Scotland Office will fund the Scottish Chambers of Commerce to launch a new international trade initiative. This collaboration will be supported by a grant of £100,000, to promote Scottish goods and services and bring foreign direct investment into Scotland.

    Following the meeting, Mr Murray said: 

    “Scotland has two governments and most Scots rightly expect their politicians to work in partnership wherever possible, especially on something as important as economic growth. Political differences aside, I have always sought to engage constructively with Scottish Government ministers and I was delighted to co-chair this important forum today with Richard Lochhead.

    “The business and trade union groups which joined our discussion challenged us to go further and faster in helping businesses and workers feel the benefits of economic growth. I am determined to meet that challenge and want the Scottish Government to work with me in areas where we have not previously collaborated.

    “With the UK Government committing to significant increases in defence spending, there are huge opportunities for Scottish workers and defence firms, but only if both governments fully commit to giving our young people the skills they need and backing our world class defence industry.

    “On nuclear power, the announcement this week of UK Government investment for Sizewell in England is a reminder of the huge potential of nuclear power. Thousands of skilled jobs and billions of pounds of investment could come to Scotland, but only if both governments work in partnership with industry to unlock those opportunities.

    “Boosting Scottish exports and selling the best of Scotland overseas is a key lever in delivering economic growth at home. Our Brand Scotland programme, boosted by £2.25 million in the Spending Review, will do just that. I am delighted to be working with the Scottish Government and businesses of all sizes to deliver trade missions and sell our goods and services to the world.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: CMA consults on releasing Google from Privacy Sandbox commitments

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    CMA consults on releasing Google from Privacy Sandbox commitments

    Protections secured by the CMA are no longer needed after Google stepped back from plans which could have favoured its business in multi-billion-pound online advertising sector.

    iStock

    The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has today launched a consultation on releasing Google from commitments after the tech firm announced in April it was abandoning plans to prompt users to decide if they want to block third party cookies from Chrome – the popular browser used by millions of users.

    The CMA commitments were put in place to ensure that Google’s Privacy Sandbox was developed in a way that benefits consumers. Without the CMA’s oversight, Google’s original plan to deprecate third-party cookies could have weakened competition in the digital advertising sector – an industry worth billions to the UK economy – harming consumers who ultimately pay for the cost of online advertising.

    The commitments protected competition by ensuring that Google designed and developed the Privacy Sandbox in a way that did not favour its own ad-tech services over those of its competitors.

    The CMA believes the commitments are no longer necessary and is now consulting before it takes a decision  on whether to release them later this year.

    Anyone with an interest in this work is welcome to submit feedback by 11.55pm on 4 July 2025.

    More information is available via the Investigation into Google’s ‘Privacy Sandbox’ browser changes case page.

    Notes to editors

    1. The CMA has worked closely with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) throughout this project to ensure that competition and privacy aspects were considered together. In the event that the Google Privacy Sandbox initiative were to give rise to competition concerns in the future, the CMA would have the ability to intervene through powers under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 as well as the Competition Act 1998.
    2. For media enquiries, contact the CMA press office on 020 3738 6460 or press@cma.gov.uk.

    Updates to this page

    Published 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Making Manchester Britain’s second city | Lord O’Neill of Gatley | #houseoflords

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

    Making Manchester Britain’s second city in Lord Speaker’s Corner this month as Jim O’Neill, Lord O’Neill of Gatley, speaks to Lord McFall of Alcluith.

    The former minister and ex-Goldman Sachs chief economist talks tariffs and US President Donald Trump’s approach, regulating AI and greater devolution across the UK.

    Listen now wherever you get your podcasts – search ‘House of Lords Podcast.
    Watch on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3BHfC5saj3g
    Read a transcript and see more episodes https://www.parliament.uk/business/lords/house-of-lords-podcast/lord-oneill-of-gatley-lord-speakers-corner/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A_9YEwC4ldc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO Secretary General in Stockholm, highlights Sweden’s defence industry leadership and support to Ukraine

    Source: NATO

    NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte met Prime Minister of Sweden Ulf Kristersson in Stockholm on Friday (13 June 2025) to discuss preparations for the NATO Summit in The Hague.

    Mr Rutte noted that Sweden – NATO’s newest member – is “already making major contributions across the Alliance” since joining in March 2024, including through contributions to Forward Land Forces in Latvia, and leading NATO’s newly established Forward Land Forces in Finland.

    “Your Gripen fighter jets help patrol the skies over Poland, and your ships contribute to our enhanced military presence in the Baltic Sea through Baltic Sentry,” he said. The Secretary General also highlighted how Sweden’s expertise in the High North strengthens NATO’s regional posture and reinforces the Alliance’s ability to support Baltic Allies. 

    In 2024, Sweden invested 2.66% of GDP on defence, with plans to go further. “This is a clear demonstration of Sweden’s commitment to collective defence,” said the Secretary General.  Mr Rutte also underlined Sweden’s leadership in strengthening NATO’s defence industrial base. “You have a world-class defence sector,” he said. He welcomed Sweden’s role in defence industrial production, research, and resilience.

    Secretary General Rutte also commended Sweden for its staunch support of Ukraine. “Since 2022, you have provided over 7 billion euros in military assistance – including 1.25 billion in the first four months of this year alone. In terms of GDP, this places Sweden among the top contributors to Ukraine.” He also welcomed Sweden’s investment in Ukraine’s defence industry, saying: “You are truly leading by example.”

    Turning to the upcoming NATO Summit in The Hague, the Secretary General highlighted the need for increased investment and stronger defence industrial capacity. “I expect leaders to make bold decisions to further strengthen our deterrence and defence – including agreeing a new defence investment plan that would bring our defence investment to 5% of GDP.”

    In Stockholm, Secretary General Rutte also took part in a panel discussion at the annual Bilderberg meeting, alongside the President of the European Investment Bank Nadia Calviño and US Army General Chris Donahue. The discussion was moderated by Minister of Foreign Affairs of Poland Radoslaw Sikorski.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Exclusive: China-Central Asia Mechanism Promotes Sustainable Development of Region – Kazakh Political Scientist

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    ALMATY, June 13 (Xinhua) — Modern geopolitical challenges require enhanced and coordinated interaction between countries seeking stability and development. Central Asia and China have a unique potential to become a fulcrum of stability in the world. This opinion was expressed by Aidar Amrebayev, Director of the Center for Political Research at the Institute of Philosophy, Political Science and Religious Studies of the Science Committee of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Kazakhstan, in an exclusive interview with Xinhua.

    Speaking about the growing importance of cooperation between China and the Central Asian states, the expert noted that digitalization of infrastructure, joint development, and coordination of foreign policy positions are especially important today.

    “I think that it is in the interests of China and Central Asia to have a joint, coordinated positioning in the current geopolitical situation, which today is quite confrontational,” noted A. Amrebaev.

    The political scientist emphasized that the approaches of Kazakhstan and China largely coincide: both countries advocate strict adherence to international law, non-interference in the internal affairs of states, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, especially in times of acute confrontation in the international arena.

    “We are moving in the same direction. And I am convinced that the Central Asian countries are also interested in maintaining such positions. This is a signal to the world community that our region is striving for sustainable development and constructive interaction,” he added.

    In this context, the expert noted the importance of creating the UN Sustainable Development Centre in Almaty, as well as the active role of Kazakhstan and China in promoting multilateralism and strengthening international institutions, primarily the UN.

    Commenting on the 80th anniversary of the Victory in World War II and the establishment of the UN, A. Amrebaev emphasized the importance of historical memory and the role of China and Central Asia in supporting justice and honest dialogue in international relations.

    “Today, there are many inter-civilizational fault lines, economic and political confrontations. The modern world order is changing, and we need support points of stability and sustainability. In my opinion, Central Asia and China have the potential to become such a point of growth and sustainability in international relations,” the expert believes.

    The political scientist noted that despite the statements of some Western analysts about the possibility of the region turning into a “geopolitical chessboard,” the position of the Central Asian countries and China remains balanced, peaceful and pragmatic. He recalled the global initiatives of the Chairman of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping – in the areas of security, development, and civilizational dialogue, which give the world hope for overcoming conflicts.

    “At the Astana Forum, our president spoke about the need to look for reference points and countries capable of supporting joint and coordinated development. In the Chinese concept, this is a “community with a common destiny for humanity.” This is a wonderful philosophical concept, and Kazakhstan confirms its practical value with its actions,” said A. Amrebayev.

    The political scientist also commented on cooperation within the framework of the Belt and Road initiative, in which all five Central Asian countries participate. In his opinion, new formats of interaction between China and the regions provide a sustainable basis for economic and technological growth.

    “Today, the focus has shifted from a bilateral to a multilateral format. Let’s take water or transport issues, for example — they cannot be resolved in isolation. Broad regional coordination is needed. Therefore, participation in integration initiatives is becoming increasingly justified,” the expert noted. He emphasized that the region’s economy cannot be closed: it is necessary to go beyond bilateral corridors, taking into account global markets. In this context, Chinese initiatives create favorable conditions for the inclusion of Central Asia in the global trade and investment architecture.

    “It is important to listen to the interlocutor – this corresponds to both Chinese and Kazakh philosophy. Everyone wants to live peacefully, in harmony, raise children, interact. And it is on these values, and not on force, that the new world order should be built. I think such a philosophy is embedded in China’s initiatives and is shared by reasonable humanity,” A. Amrebaev summed up. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man arrested following fatal shooting in Hammersmith

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a 30-year-old man was fatally shot in Hammersmith.

    Police were called to Claxton Grove, W6 at 23:19hrs on Wednesday, 11 June.

    Upon arrival, the London Ambulance Service were treating two men for gunshot wounds. Both were taken to hospital where, despite the best efforts of emergency workers and medical professionals, the 30-year-old man sadly died on Thursday, 12 June.

    His next-of-kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers. A post-mortem examination will take place in due course.

    The second man, also in his 30s, was treated for minor injuries and has since been discharged from hospital.

    A 28-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. He has since been re-arrested on suspicion of murder, and remains in police custody.

    Detective Chief Superintendent Christina Jessah, from the Central West Command Unit, said: “Our deepest sympathy is with the victim’s family who are being supported by specialist officers at this time.

    “This is a shocking crime to occur in any community, and we thank locals for their patience. They will see an increased police presence in the area as we conduct our enquires.”

    If anyone witnessed the incident, or has any information that can help the investigation, please contact the police as a matter of urgency on 101 quoting 8916/11JUN.

    To remain anonymous, call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org

    Claxton Grove will remain closed while a crime scene is in place.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Aviation sector sees 600% year-on-year increase in cyberattacks

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: Aviation sector sees 600% year-on-year increase in cyberattacks

    • 600% increase in ransomware attacks in the aviation sector in one year.
    • 27 major attacks by 22 ransomware groups between January 2024 and April 2025.
    • 71% of incidents involve credential theft or unauthorised access to critical systems.
    • In 2025, the size of the global aviation cybersecurity market is estimated at $5.32 billion.

    Behind any physical turbulence in the skies, a silent cyber war is being waged on the aviation sector. Ahead of the Paris Air Show (16 to 22 June 2025), Thales’s latest report on cyberthreats in the aviation sector warns of a spectacular rise in cyberattacks, which have increased by 600% in the space of a year. From airlines and airports to navigation systems and suppliers, every link in the chain is vulnerable to attack. The report also includes an analysis of the growing convergence between geopolitical confrontations and cyberthreats in a sector that has become strategically important for state sovereignty, global economic stability and the safe movement of people and goods.

    Based on market intelligence data and incident analysis, the Thales report reveals how the stakeholders in the aerospace sector have become prime targets for cyberattacks, which are motivated by a range of factors including financial gain, ideological agendas and state-sponsored influence operations. Between January 2024 and April 2025, 27 attacks were recorded, involving 22 different ransomware groups.

    Strategic, interconnected and exposed

    While the number of attacks is rising, the report also highlights a qualitative shift in the types of threats the aviation sector faces. As well as compromising flight operations, cyberattacks now also have strategic objectives such as industrial cyberespionage, access to sensitive technologies such as avionics and communication systems, disruption of supply chains and capture of high-value data such as diplomatic travel itineraries and confidential freight shipments.

    These increasingly sophisticated attacks are targeting airlines as well as aircraft manufacturers and their suppliers. Notable examples include the denial-of-service attack by a pro-Russian hacktivist group on an airline and the ransomware that paralysed maintenance and supply systems at several strategic air transport hubs. These incidents reveal structural vulnerabilities in a highly interconnected sector, where a single flaw can trigger cascading effects across the entire chain of critical operations.

    This high level of risk is a result of the specific characteristics of the aerospace sector: significant operational complexity with a reliance on critical software and interdependent stakeholders, the intrinsic value of the personal, biometric or strategic data involved, and the immediate consequences of any disruption, such as massive delays, airspace closures and logistical failures.

    “The aviation industry has become a digital battlefield with significant economic and geopolitical interests at stake. The sharp increase in the number of attacks calls for a holistic approach to aviation cybersecurity, further moves to incorporate AI as an ally and closer collaboration between industry and the public sector.” Ivan Fontarensky, CTO, Cyber Detection and Response, Thales.

    The global aviation cybersecurity market is expected to reach $5.32 billion in 2025, with average annual growth estimated at 8.7% by 2029, driven in particular by the increasing digitalisation of the sector and the intensified threat landscape.

    The full report is available here.

     

    About Thales

    Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies for the Defence, Aerospace and Cyber & Digital sectors. Its portfolio of innovative products and services addresses several major challenges: sovereignty, security, sustainability and inclusion.

    The Group invests more than €4 billion per year in Research & Development in key areas, particularly for critical environments, such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum and cloud technologies. Thales has more than 83,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2024, the Group generated sales of €20.6 billion.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Adult Social Care a ‘clear priority’ in city as service rated GOOD

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Adult social care services in Stoke-on-Trent have been rated GOOD by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

    It follows a CQC Assurance assessment carried out earlier this year of how well the city council, working with partners, has ensured people have access to adult social care and support under the Care Act (2014).

    In their report published today (Friday, 13 June), CQC inspectors said: “Provision of adult social care was a clear priority within Stoke-on-Trent, and there was a positive energy among staff and members to do the best for people and make Stoke-on-Trent a great place to live and work.

    It added: “There was an open culture that embraced challenges and supported people to take risks and try new things. There were clear and accountable leadership and governance arrangements, and everyone knew what was happening across adult social care and were pulling in the same direction to support people in the community.”

    It also found that there was trusted leadership and that staff were motivated to deliver.

    The assessment focussed on nine areas across four key themes – “Working With People”, “Providing Support”, “How the Local Authority Ensures Safety Within the System” and “Leadership”.

    These were assessed against quality statements, with each being scored from 1 (inadequate) to 4 (outstanding). Across the scoring, no service area in Stoke-on-Trent received a 1, with the majority scoring 3 (good).

    However, the council has said it will not stand still and will continue to add to the improvements that have already been put into place to help enhance the service for residents – particularly in areas such as assessing needs and helping people lead healthier lives.

    Councillor Duncan Walker, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and All Age Commissioning, said: “This is tremendous news for the city and shows a real drive and commitment to deliver safe, effective, caring and responsive services for the people of Stoke-on-Trent.

    “Whilst I am so proud of what we have achieved together, we will not rest on our laurels. Our aim is to always strive for continual improvement. So, we will continue to listen and work with the public, staff and partners so that we can continue to develop and improve.”

    Around 100 frontline staff from across Adult Social Care and All Age Commissioning were involved in the Assurance process – meeting with inspectors and sharing their experiences of working in Stoke-on-Trent.

    The CQC has a new duty under the Care Act to assess how local authorities work with communities and partners to meet their responsibilities. As a result, it was part of the first round of Assurance assessments carried out with local authorities, nationally, in more than a decade.

    In their report, CQC inspectors highlighted several key factors. They said that people’s feedback to the Care Act assessment was positive, and carers said they received good early intervention and support.

    People had access to information and advice in their communities through the council’s Community Lounges service, which were valued, inspectors said.

    Meanwhile, people had a good experience of discharge from hospital and felt supported – and people who used services said they felt safe and felt that the safeguarding process had met their preferred outcomes.

    Councillor Jane Ashworth, Leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “The whole Adult Social Care workforce did a fantastic job in demonstrating the pride we have in the city and the services we deliver which make a huge difference to so many members of the community.

    “Adult Social Care is, and always will be, a key priority of this authority and we are continuing to strive to deliver the best services we can – listening to residents and shaping services accordingly.”

    The CQC report can be read here – www.cqc.org.uk/care-services/local-authority-assessment-reports/stokeontrent-0625

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: How breast tissue density affects your risk of cancer

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    Justin Stebbing, Anglia Ruskin University

    Breast density is a significant yet often overlooked factor in breast cancer awareness, risk assessment and screening practices. Understanding what breast density is, how it affects breast cancer risk and what it means for screening can help women make informed decisions about their health.

    Breast density refers to the proportions of glandular and connective tissue compared to fatty tissue in the breast, as seen on a mammogram. Simply put, dense breasts have more glandular and fibrous tissue and less fat.

    On a mammogram, both dense tissue and tumours appear white, making it harder to detect abnormalities in women with dense breasts. This masking effect can lead to cancers being missed during routine screening, which is why breast density is not just a risk factor for developing breast cancer, but also for having it go undetected until it is more advanced.

    Recent large-scale studies have confirmed that women with dense breasts face a higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to women with less dense, fattier breasts. For example, a major study involving more than 33,000 women found that those with dense breasts were nearly twice as likely to develop breast cancer than those with low breast density.

    This increased risk is seen across both pre-menopausal younger women and post-menopausal older women, although the proportion of women with high breast density tends to decrease with age.

    In practical terms, women with the lowest breast density have about a 6% lifetime risk of developing breast cancer after age 50, while those with the highest density face a risk closer to 15%.

    The impact of breast density on cancer detection is also significant. Mammography, the standard screening tool, is less sensitive in women with dense breasts. While mammograms can detect about at least nine out of 10 cancers in women with mostly fatty breasts, the sensitivity drops to about seven out of 10 in women with extremely dense breasts.

    This means that tumours can be missed, leading to what are known as “interval cancers”, cancers that are diagnosed between regular screenings, often at a more advanced stage.

    Supplemental screening methods, such as MRI scanning, can help detect cancers that mammography might miss in women with dense breasts, and some pilot studies have shown that additional cancers are found this way.

    Breast density is now recognised as one of the most important risk factors for breast cancer, even as much as family history or other commonly discussed risk factors.

    About 40% of women fall into the higher density categories, and dense breasts are common in younger women, those taking hormone replacement therapy, and those with certain genetic backgrounds and ethnicities. However, breast density can also be influenced by lifestyle and hormonal factors, and it tends to decrease with age and higher body mass index and obesity.

    Given the importance of breast density, there has been a growing movement to ensure women are informed about their own breast density after mammograms, and to address this appropriately. A recent UK survey showed that most women aren’t aware of their breast density.

    In the US, new regulations require that all women undergoing mammography be notified if they have dense breasts and be advised about the associated risks. This aims to empower women to have more informed discussions with their healthcare providers about their personal risk and the potential need for additional screening.

    Despite the increased risk, it is important to remember that the majority of women with dense breasts will not develop breast cancer. Breast density is just one factor among many, and decisions about screening and risk reduction should be made on an individual basis.

    For women with dense breasts, discussing options for supplemental screening with their doctor is recommended. While there is currently no widely accepted intervention to reduce breast density, in my own research, I’m exploring new ways to address this risk factor.

    In summary, breast density is both a common and significant risk factor for breast cancer, and it can complicate the detection of cancer through standard mammography.

    Women should be aware of their breast density status, understand its implications for both risk and screening, and work with their doctors to determine the best approach for their individual situation. As awareness grows and screening practices evolve, the hope is that more cancers will be detected earlier, improving outcomes for all women.

    Justin Stebbing, Professor of Biomedical Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University

    This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

    The opinions expressed in VIEWPOINT articles are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of ARU.

    If you wish to republish this article, please follow these guidelines: https://theconversation.com/uk/republishing-guidelines

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Advice issued ahead of City Cemetery Blessing of the Graves

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Advice issued ahead of City Cemetery Blessing of the Graves

    13 June 2025

    Preparations are underway for the annual Blessing of the Graves service at the City Cemetery and with thousands of people expected to attend, Council is advising that visitors familiarise themselves with the arrangements for the day.

    The event will take place at 3pm on Sunday June 22nd, and a number of measures are being introduced to ensure the event runs smoothly.

    A limited number of parking spaces are still available on site for blue badge holders who must register their details in advance via www.derrystrabane.com/cemeterysunday Please note that anyone booking will need to provide a Name, Mobile number, Vehicle Registration Number, Blue Badge Number and email address – any submissions without this information will be considered invalid.

    Those who have booked can access their parking via the Lone Moor Road entrance – gates will open at 1pm until 2pm to allow time for cars to park.

    Anyone planning to prepare graves for the service in the coming days are advised that the cemetery will be busy, particularly on Saturday June 21st.   It’s recommended that preparations are made earlier in the week if possible if visitors wish to avoid busier times and any congestion. Please follow the traffic directions and be mindful of other pedestrians and visitors accessing the site. With later opening visits can be spread throughout the day.

    The City Cemetery will be closed to the general public on the day itself, except for burials. Those with a pre-booked parking space must be in place by 2pm, as there will be no access for vehicles after this time. Parking spaces will be allocated on a first come first served basis and it will not be possible to reserve a space in a particular area. Please keep in mind that you may still have to walk some distance to reach family graves and make provision for this.

    Once on site, vehicles will remain there until the crowds have dispersed which, it’s estimated, will be approximately 30 minutes after the service finishes. 

    Other car parking is being made available for blue badge holders at St Mary’s Church, Creggan, St Cecilia’s College and Celtic Park. There is no prior booking for these sites, access will only be given to vehicles that display a current Disability Blue Badge Permit on arrival and these too will be filled on a first come basis first served basis. 

    For those who cannot attend the service, a livestream of the Blessing of the Graves can be viewed online at the following link: https://youtube.com/live/9ZS-utqxlfQ?feature=share

    You will find information on the Blessing of the Graves service and blue badge parking here – https://tinyurl.com/mr4ytacu

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Conservation project on part of York’s medieval walls

    Source: City of York

    Conservation works on part of York’s medieval walls are due to start next week.

    City of York Council is one of only a handful of local authorities which has an in-house stonemason’s team, who will be carrying out the works from Monday 16 June, for up to 6 months.

    This includes preserving the lead and timber covering of Bootham Bar’s roof, which has been leaking intermittently.

    Bootham Bar sits on the site of the Porta Principalis Dextra, a gateway to the legionary fortress dating back to 72AD.

    The team will be conserving the principal timber structures by stripping out more modern elements to preserve the more historical parts of the timbers.

    Cllr Pete Kilbane, Executive Member at City of York Council, said:

    “We’re one of only few of local authorities with an in-house stonemason’s team. They will be applying their craft and skills to Bootham Bar over the next few months, maintaining the ancient gateway and preserving our mediaeval walls for the generations to come.

    “We’re working closely with businesses in the area to ensure that any disruption to kept a minimum and to support them where possible. This project is exactly the type of thing that would financially benefit from our upcoming Tap and Donate scheme.”

    Bootham Bar will be wrapped in scaffolding which will require a road closure, just at the section of the walls on High Petergate.

    This section of road which runs through Bootham Bar, will be closed to all users. A diversion for vehicles and cyclists will be in place via Duncombe Place. To support local businesses during this period, access will be provided at all times for vehicles and cyclists to facilitate deliveries

    Pedestrians will be able to continue to use the pedestrian arch under Bootham Bar and this will remain open throughout the duration of the works. A temporary ramp will be but in place for those using wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

    For cyclists who are able, they can choose to dismount and push cycles through the pedestrian access point.

    The works are all part of ongoing efforts to preserve York’s historic monuments.

    It’s hoped that with the upcoming launch of Tap and Donate later this year, that projects like this could be partly funded through public donations going forward. This project will cost circa £300,000, funded from the council’s capital programme.

    The council has spoken to businesses directly affected in the area and will continue to work with them to ensure disruption is kept to a minimum.

    Watch the video.

    Find out more about York’s City Walls.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pumping station ready to pump out pints for beer lovers

    Source: City of Leicester

    REAL ale, vegan beers and a range of ciders will all be flowing at the Leicester CAMRA Beer Festival this month.

    Taking place in a marquee in the grounds of the Abbey Pumping Station, the three-day festival will be serving up more than 50 beers from independent brewers from Thursday 26 June.

    Some indoor seating will be provided, with additional picnic tables and gazebos outside, but festival goers can make sure they sit with their friends by bringing their own picnic blankets and camping chairs.

    Tickets – which must be booked online – are available for afternoon sessions or evening sessions each day.

    Prices start at £7 for the Thursday afternoon session and the Saturday evening session, rising to £9.50 on Friday night and Saturday afternoon. Generous discounts are available for CAMRA members and all tickets include a commemorative glass.

    Doors open for the afternoon sessions at 12 noon on Thursday 26 and Friday 27 June, and at 11am on Saturday 28 June, with the evening sessions starting at 5.30pm on 26-27 June and at 6pm on 28 June.

    Festival goers are advised that the Leicester CAMRA Beer Festival is a cashless event and all payments on site must be made by card.

    To book tickets, please visit leicestermuseums.org and follow the link to the CAMRA booking site.

    The Abbey Pumping Station is on Corporation Road, Leicester, LE4 5PX and shares a car park with the neighbouring National Space Centre. Parking is free after 6pm. The pumping station is also served by good walking, cycling and bus routes. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lifesaving partnership wins national award

    Source: City of Leicester

    A LIFESAVING initiative that enables front-line police officers in Leicestershire to carry and administer an antidote to opiate drugs has won a national award.

    The city council’s public health team worked in partnership with the police and local drug and alcohol treatment service Turning Point to develop the initiative, which has potentially already saved 14 lives in its first 12 months of operation.

    Last night they were named as winners of the Public/Public Partnerships category at the 2025 Local Government Chronicle’s Awards, which recognise excellence in local government across the whole of the UK.

    Feedback from the LGC said: “Judges were wowed by a partnership solution which is both innovative and pragmatic. The clarity on the role of each partner and the way they overcame challenges was truly impressive. We could see how all places could apply this model to save lives and strengthen services – amazing outcomes.”

    The partnership was developed in response to a national rising trend in drug deaths. Many of these could have been avoided with the use of the antidote Naloxone, which reverses the effects of an opiate overdose – if given quickly enough.

    Leicester’s Director of Public Health Rob Howard said: “It’s great to see our partnership recognised in this way as it will help to raise awareness of what can be achieved by public bodies working together with the same aim.”

    The scheme saves lives through Naloxone being administered immediately in the event of an opiate overdose. It’s given in the form of a nasal spray which reverses respiratory arrest and allows time for emergency medical services to be called.

    Rob Howard said: “Police officers are most likely to be the first on scene at such incidents, and thanks to years of hard work by all involved, we believe that the Leicestershire police service is now the first in England and Wales to commit to enabling all front-line officers to carry Naloxone.

    “This incredible partnership work has not only saved lives, and will save lives in the future, but is also supporting a broader understanding of the challenges faced by people who use drugs.”

    Grace Strong, Head of Prevention at Leicestershire Police said; “Partnership working is at the heart of prevention and the Naloxone project is an exemplary example of the police joining forces with partners to ensure we prevent harm. We are proud of this ground-breaking  project and to this receive a national award is a very welcome external recognition.”

    Approval for a pilot scheme was given by Leicestershire Police in 2023, after Turning Point and the city council’s public health team had found funding and established pilot sites.

    Initially small groups of police officers were trained in overdose awareness and administering Naloxone, after which almost 200 officers voluntarily agreed to carry it.

    Julie Bass, Turning Point’s Chief Executive said: “Winning this prestigious award is testament to the power of partnership. We have been delighted to work with Leicestershire Police and Leicester City Council on this initiative, which genuinely has saved lives and also strengthened joint working across our organisations.”

    In the first 12 months of the scheme, police officers administered Naloxone on 14 separate occasions, in situations where people were likely to have otherwise died, before calling for ambulance back-up.

    New recruits to Leicestershire Police are now trained in administering Naloxone as part of their core training, and offered the chance to carry at that time.  Since this was introduced, every new recruit has volunteered to carry it.

    Around 1000 entries were submitted to the 2025 LGC Awards, with winners announced at a ceremony on 11 June 2025 in London.

    Picture caption: Leicestershire police officers are trained in the use of Naloxene by Turning Point Leicester.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Successful trial paves the way for improved reconnaissance on Army operations

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    News story

    Successful trial paves the way for improved reconnaissance on Army operations

    Recent trial saw a single operator controlling three uncrewed vehicles, which detected and classified threats.

    Uncrewed air vehicle in successful trial

    • UK first comes as government doubles investment in autonomous defence technology committing an extra £2bn this parliament
    • Next stage of trial will see drone swarms tested for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, delivering on recommendations set out in the Strategic Defence Review, and the Government Plan for Change.

    Soldiers are set to be better protected, and Army surveillance operations enhanced, following a successful trial in which a single operator controlled three uncrewed air and land vehicles.  

    The trials, conducted by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), proved that robotic and autonomous systems (RAS) can be integrated into and controlled from crewed command vehicles, in a UK first.

    Drawing on lessons from Ukraine’s battlefields, this innovative use of RAS will play a vital role in strengthening the Army’s reconnaissance capabilities while reducing risk to personnel, allowing them to operate further from the frontline.

    The live trial took place on Salisbury Plain with a drone operated in tandem with two uncrewed ground vehicles, commanded by a single operator in a crewed vehicle. The autonomous systems were equipped with cameras and automatic target recognition software to detect and classify threats, which were relayed to the mission operator.

    Following recommendations set out in the Strategic Defence Review, this government is doubling investment in autonomous technology – investing an extra £2 billion this Parliament, following the Prime Minister’s historic uplift in defence spending to 2.5% of GDP from 2027. This will see autonomous systems, including drones, improve accuracy and lethality for our Armed Forces, boost UK export potential and drive jobs and growth across the country. 

    Thales designed and developed the trial for Dstl, supported by a number of specialist technology suppliers. Dstl’s work supports thousands of highly skilled jobs across the UK supply chain, including 7,000 staff employed by Thales directly, supporting the government’s Plan for Change.

    Following the success of the trial, Dstl will apply the concept to further missions, including deploying swarming drones in an intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance role. 

    Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Rt Hon Maria Eagle MP said: 

    As set out in the Strategic Defence Review, we plan to use drones, data and digital warfare to ensure our Armed Forces stronger and safer, whilst boosting jobs and innovation across the UK. 

    This trial is an example of our Government’s new partnership with industry; delivering the cutting-edge technology to our front line troops and making defence an engine for growth, as part of our Plan for Change.

    The trial demonstrated the extension of the UK’s Generic Vehicle Architecture standard – which has also been adopted by NATO – to autonomous systems. Through integration into an internationally recognised system, the trial could lead to enhanced interoperability between allies, with the ability to deploy autonomous systems, sensors or software between vehicles at reduced risk and cost. 

    Dr Paul Hollinshead, Dstl’s Chief Executive, said:   

    Dstl identifies and harnesses the emerging technologies that will deliver mission success through science and technology advantage for UK forces.  

    These technologies support highly skilled jobs and create opportunities for growth throughout our specialist industry suppliers.

    Updates to this page

    Published 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Oceans British actors, authors, musicians and environmentalists urge UK government to ‘stop failing the ocean’ Photos of some of the signatories available here Some of the UK’s best-loved stars have joined a call on the UK government to stop failing the ocean and sign the… by Alexandra Sedgwick June 11, 2025

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    • Photos of some of the signatories available here

    Some of the UK’s best-loved stars have joined a call on the UK government to stop failing the ocean and sign the Global Ocean Treaty into law, as the pivotal UN Ocean Conference is taking place in Nice this week. 18 more states ratified the Treaty yesterday, bringing the total so far to 49, but embarrassingly there is no sign of action from the UK government. 

    Household names and longtime ocean, climate and nature ambassadors Stephen Fry, Emma Thompson, Bonnie Wright (who was in Nice for the summit), Dan Smith, Cel Spellman, Meera Sodha and Mya-Rose Craig are together appealing to the Foreign Secretary David Lammy to urgently sign the Global Ocean Treaty (also known as the High Seas Treaty) into UK law. Prime Minister Keir Starmer must support the legislation being brought to parliament before the summit ends on Friday.

    Their joint statement said: 

    “All life on earth depends on healthy oceans, yet they are under threat like never before. I urge the Foreign Secretary David Lammy to protect the oceans by rapidly passing the Global Ocean Treaty into UK law. It’s high time the UK got onboard. The Treaty is our best chance to achieve protection of 30% of the ocean by 2030, which scientists agree is essential for marine life to survive and thrive. The UK has turned up empty handed to a pivotal UN Ocean Conference where countries are committing to ocean protection right now. The UK must stop failing the ocean and swiftly join the 49 states that have already ratified. David Lammy has to ensure the Treaty legislation is tabled by the end of this vital conference.”

    After a flurry of ratifications on day one of the UN Global Ocean Conference, 49 states (plus the European Union) have now signed the Treaty into law, including 14 EU countries, but the UK is notably absent from this list[1][2]. A total of at least 60 states is required to bring the Treaty into force, and this threshold could be reached as soon as this week, but so far there’s no sign the UK will be included in the leading pack of countries. 

    The UN Ocean Conference (9-13 June) is the most significant political moment about the ocean since the agreement of the Global Ocean Treaty by the UN in 2023. Dozens of Heads of State are attending, according to the organisers. This level of attendance, and the diplomatic efforts of the organisers, provide an opportunity to set a high level of ambition for global ocean protection for the coming years. Ahead of the conference the UK government announced a package of domestic ocean protection measures but international action is also urgently needed to deliver on the commitment to protect at least 30% of the global ocean by 2030.

    Chris Thorne, Greenpeace UK senior oceans campaigner, said:

    “The UK government wants to be a leader on climate and nature, but 49 countries have beaten them to it on ocean protection. This vital international agreement could soon enter into force and begin delivering protection at sea on a scale we’ve never seen before. We’re tantalisingly close to a huge moment for the planet and the UK government could have pushed us closer. Embarrassingly, despite having had 20 months to do it, it hasn’t even begun the parliamentary process to sign the Treaty into UK law. 

    “All life on Earth depends on the ocean. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Foreign Secretary David Lammy must stop failing it, and bring legislation to parliament before the summit concludes on Friday. The government must also loudly support calls for a global moratorium on deep sea mining. Global ocean protection cannot wait, and Starmer’s government shouldn’t either. This historic Treaty can help to protect a third of our blue planet from threats like industrial fishing, which devastates marine life. The UK needs to get onboard.”

    Actress Emma Thompson in Svalbard, Norway as part of a Greenpeace campaign. © Nick Cobbing / Greenpeace

    Mya-Rose Craig, ornithologist, writer, environmentalist and activist, said: 

    “We stand at a crossroads. In my lifetime, I’ll either witness the devastation of marine life and the decimation of coastal communities – or I’ll see a world where the oceans are properly protected, with thriving ecosystems, wildlife and people. Healthy oceans are also fundamental to tackling the climate crisis. I sailed to the Arctic with Greenpeace a few years ago, where I saw the Arctic sea ice shrinking. Each year, the sea ice retreats even further. But this is just one threat – destructive fishing, shipping, oil drilling and deep sea mining all pose a risk. Time is fast running out for governments to protect the oceans and the UK needs to deliver on its promises right now. Foreign Secretary David Lammy must ratify the Global Ocean Treaty immediately. It is the only tool that can help protect 30% of the oceans by 2030.”

    Cel Spellman, actor, writer and presenter, said: 

    “The health and balance of our bountiful oceans are at a critical tipping point. What happens at the UN Ocean Conference will define the future of our oceans; for the plant & wildlife species that call them home, for the communities that rely on them, and for the future of our precious planet. There is no other option than ensuring 30% of our oceans are protected, it’s as simple as that. Nothing less will suffice. The warning signs are there, the science is clear. If you want to understand why this is the case and how we’ve got in this mess, I implore you to watch or read Ocean with David Attenborough.”

    Dan Smith, Bastille playing guitar on board the Arctic Sunrise. © Tavish Campbell / Greenpeace

    Greenpeace UK is calling on the UK government to:

    • Prioritise ratifying the Global Ocean Treaty 
    • Speak out in favour of a global moratorium on deep sea mining and use diplomatic influence to build support for this and the multilateral system
    • Implement a full ban on all forms of destructive fishing, including bottom trawling, in all UK marine protected areas
    • Work with the UK Overseas Territory of Bermuda and other nations to champion one of the world’s first high seas sanctuaries in the Sargasso Sea. This stunning ecosystem supports a plethora of iconic wildlife including humpback whales, sharks, dolphins and sea turtles

    ENDS

    Photos of some of the signatories are available in the Greenpeace Media Library here

    Contact: Alex Sedgwick, Greenpeace UK press officer, alexandra.sedgwick@greenpeace.org, 07739 963301. 

    Notes for editors: 

    1. Palau, Chile, Belize, Seychelles, Monaco, Mauritius, Federated States of Micronesia, Cuba, Maldives, Singapore, Bangladesh, Barbados, Timor Leste, Panama, St. Lucia, Spain, France, Malawi, Antigua and Barbuda, Marshall Islands, Republic of Korea, Costa Rica, Cyprus, Finland, Hungary, Latvia, Portugal, Slovenia, Dominica, Norway, Romania, Albania, Bahamas, Belgium, Côte d’Ivoire, Croatia, Denmark, Fiji, Greece, Guinea-Bissau, Jamaica, Jordan, Liberia, Malta, Mauritania, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Viet Nam.
    2. The European Union has also ratified the Treaty, in its capacity as an ‘enhanced observer’ at the UN.However, EU ratification does not count towards the total of 60 ratifications by UN member states required for the Treaty to enter into force.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Italy: New case of journalist targeted with Graphite spyware confirms widespread use of unlawful surveillance   

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Responding to the publication of a Citizen Lab report identifying Italian journalist Ciro Pellegrino and another who has chosen to remain anonymous, as the latest targets of Paragon’s spyware in Europe, Elina Castillo Jiménez, Advocacy and Policy Advisor on targeted surveillance at Amnesty International, said: 

    “The discovery that Paragon’s highly invasive Graphite spyware has been unlawfully used against yet another journalist in Italy, Ciro Pellegrino – adding to a list of other targets – confirms the rampant widening and systemic pattern of spyware abuse  in Italy, and elsewhere in Europe.   

    “While the recent Parliamentary Committee for the Security of the Republic (COPASIR) report confirms that Italy’s intelligence services used highly-invasive Graphite spyware to target activists, it sought to justify the use on national security grounds. It also denied the targeting of journalist Francesco Cancellato. This new finding that another Italian journalist has been targeted with Graphite spyware, raises more questions. 

    “The use of spyware against activists and journalists by Italian authorities and the lack of transparency and cooperation undermine international norms that Italy is bound by and raises serious concerns about its commitment to the Pall Mall Process and its Code of Practice for States, which seeks to stop the abuse of commercial spyware which undermine freedom of expression. 

     “We urge Italian authorities to fully disclose the details of these targeting operations and to facilitate pathways for reparation to the victims. When governments fail to respond adequately to credible allegations of surveillance abuse, they send a dangerous message that impunity is the norm” 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • Yoga Connect 2025: Global Summit on ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’ to be held tomorrow in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a significant lead-up to the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY), the Ministry of Ayush is set to host ‘Yoga Connect 2025’, a hybrid global summit, on June 14, at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. Centered around the theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” the summit will bring together an esteemed gathering of yoga practitioners, policymakers, health experts, business leaders, and researchers from India and around the world.

    Organized by the Central Council for Research in Yoga and Naturopathy (CCRYN), the event will feature over 1,000 participants attending in person, with many more joining virtually from leading international yoga institutions and wellness communities. Delegates from countries such as Bahrain, the United States, the United Kingdom, and South Korea will be participating, reflecting the growing global influence of India’s yoga movement.

    A major highlight of the summit will be the release of the ‘Yoga Prabhava’ report, a comprehensive nationwide study conducted by CCRYN. This report evaluates the impact of the International Day of Yoga over the past decade, offering valuable insights into the reach, effectiveness, and transformative potential of yoga initiatives across the country. It is expected to be a key resource for academicians, public health professionals, and policy researchers.

    Alongside this report, the summit will also unveil three important publications. The first is an e-book titled “Decadal Impact of Yoga,” capturing the evolution and influence of yoga in India and abroad over the last ten years. The second is a detailed report on the scientometric analysis of yoga research, providing a data-driven perspective on global yoga scholarship. The third, “Bhartiya Vriksha Vaibhavam,” is an illustrative booklet highlighting the significance of native Indian trees and their ecological and cultural relevance.

    The summit will feature a range of thematic sessions addressing yoga’s role in the prevention of non-communicable diseases, research on the Common Yoga Protocol, the impact of IDY, and emerging innovations under the Yoga-Tech domain. Other discussions will explore the applications of yoga in women’s health across life stages, yoga’s growing integration into commerce and industry, and the broader vision of making yoga accessible for all.

    Several renowned figures from the yoga world are expected to attend and share their perspectives, including Swami Baba Ramdevji, Acharya Balkrishna, HR Nagendraji, His Holiness Bikkhu Sanghasena, and Sri Bharath Bhushanji. Their participation will add depth to discussions on yoga’s role in enhancing personal wellness and advancing public health.

    ‘Yoga Connect 2025’ is not just a celebration of yoga’s achievements over the past decade; it is also a forward-looking platform for global collaboration, innovation, and inclusive wellness. The summit marks ten years since the United Nations officially designated June 21 as the International Day of Yoga in 2014, a move that catalyzed India’s global yoga movement. It also commemorates yoga’s recognition by UNESCO as a symbol of India’s intangible cultural heritage.

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Underinvestment in endometriosis research – E-002260/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002260/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Tomasz Froelich (ESN)

    Endometriosis is a disorder that affects an estimated 200 million people worldwide and around 14 million women in Europe.

    Endometriosis is associated with a range of often debilitating symptoms, including severe pelvic pain, bowel symptoms and a risk of infertility[1].

    Endometriosis has a substantial economic impact, with direct healthcare costs, indirect costs related to lost productivity at work, and the financial burden of infertility treatments. Women with endometriosis need multiple medical consultations, diagnostic tests and treatments.

    The cost of endometriosis-associated sick leave for the EU is estimated at EUR 30 billion annually.

    Endometriosis is substantially under-represented in projects funded at EU level. Only 27 out of 145 983 projects funded in total (0.02 %) were related to endometriosis. Other non-malignant disorders received considerably more funds: 735 funded projects for depression, 410 for anxiety, etc. Gender-related autoimmune diseases received more funding than endometriosis. In addition, funding was mainly dedicated to the diagnosis of the disease, while few projects focused on treatment[2].

    • 1.Does the Commission agree that the funding dedicated to endometriosis at EU level is not aligned with the enormous burden attributable to the disease in the EU?
    • 2.What are the reasons for this substantial under-representation of endometriosis among projects funded at EU level?

    Submitted: 4.6.2025

    • [1] https://www.nature.com/articles/s44294-024-00048-6.
    • [2] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2949838423000464.
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – New evidence on cancer risks of glyphosate – P-002366/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002366/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy (Renew)

    A recently published peer-reviewed study in Environmental Health has presented new evidence regarding the safety of glyphosate, concluding that two pesticides containing the substance glyphosate that are currently on the market pose a serious risk of developing various forms of cancer, especially in pregnancy and early life stages. In light of these findings, it is essential that the Commission acts swiftly to evaluate the potential risks and subsequently take action to protect public health.

    • 1.What is the Commission’s assessment of this study?
    • 2.Will the Commission take swift action in response to the study, such as a rapid risk assessment with the European Food Safety Authority?
    • 3.What is the Commission’s timeline for reviewing this new scientific evidence and determining whether regulatory action is warranted, and will it consider a precautionary pause in the meantime, given the potential public health implications?

    Submitted: 11.6.2025

    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Plastic cigarette filters – Inadequate implementation of Directive (EU) 2019/904 and lack of progress regarding prevention, alternatives and education – E-002262/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002262/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Manuela Ripa (PPE)

    Cigarette filters containing plastic are among the most common single-use plastic waste in the environment. They contain microplastics and toxic substances affecting soil, water and marine ecosystems. Although Directive (EU) 2019/904 encompasses plastic tobacco filters and provides for measures including extended producer responsibility and public awareness campaigns, its implementation across Member States remains uneven. The noticeable littering of public spaces by cigarette butts has hardly been reduced, while cities and municipalities continue to bear high disposal costs.

    • 1.Is the Commission aware that, in many Member States, the implementation of the SUP Directive in relation to cigarette filters has thus far failed to deliver meaningful improvements in collection, clean-up efforts, or consumer behaviour?
    • 2.Is the Commission considering introducing an EU-wide ban on the placing on the market of plastic cigarette filters and establishing binding requirements for the use of natural and biodegradable alternatives in order to permanently reduce pollution, microplastics and disposal costs?
    • 3.What is the Commission’s assessment of the impact of the awareness-raising measures provided for in Article 10 of the Directive with regard to reducing inappropriate disposal and to changing consumer behaviour?

    Submitted: 4.6.2025

    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Compliance with EU-equivalent environmental and labour standards of 13 new strategic projects under the Critical Raw Materials Act – E-002259/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002259/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Irena Joveva (Renew)

    With the recent announcement of 13 new strategic projects under the Critical Raw Materials Act[1], including a lithium extraction project in Serbia, the Commission has taken steps to secure access to key resources needed for the green transition. However, the proposed Jadar lithium project has raised serious concerns among local communities in the Jadar Valley, civil society organisations, and numerous environmental experts.

    Allegations of inadequate environmental impact assessments, limited public consultation, and risks to biodiversity have sparked widespread protests and highlighted the dangers of pursuing strategic partnerships without robust safeguards. More concerningly, the monitoring of these projects is reportedly ensured through national legislation and commitments made in letters of intent and memoranda of understanding (Art. 6 and Annex to the Critical Raw Materials Act).

    • 1.How does the Commission intend to ensure that strategic projects in non-EU countries, particularly in candidate countries such as Serbia, comply with EU-equivalent environmental and labour standards?
    • 2.In the light of the serious rule of law concerns highlighted in the latest accession progress report on Serbia, how does the Commission plan to ensure that monitoring is credible and effectively enforced in practice?

    Submitted: 4.6.2025

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2024/1252 of 11 April 2024 establishing a framework for ensuring a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials (OJ L, 2024/1252, 3.5.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1252/oj).
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Spain’s failure to comply with the European Parliament’s recommendations on stolen baby cases – E-002203/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002203/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Isabel Serra Sánchez (The Left)

    In 2017, the European Parliament’s Committee on Petitions adopted a raft of recommendations urging the Spanish authorities to effectively investigate cases of abductions of new-born babies during the Franco dictatorship and in the following years. These included setting up a special prosecutor’s office and a public DNA database, officially recognising these acts as crimes against humanity and providing victims with free legal aid and psychological support.

    Eight years later, in 2025, and after several failed attempts to pass specific legislation, many of these recommendations remain unfulfilled. The absence of adequate legislation and sufficient public resources has led to continued impunity and aggravated the institutional neglect of the victims.

    • 1.What measures does the European Commission intend to take in response to Spain’s continued failure to comply with these recommendations?
    • 2.Has the Commission set up any effective mechanisms to monitor possible violations of the rights of victims of enforced or involuntary disappearances by the Spanish authorities, as the Committee on Petitions requested in the aforementioned report?
    • 3.Does the Commission consider that this inaction constitutes a violation of Directive 2012/29/EU, the Victims’ Rights Directive?

    Submitted: 2.6.2025

    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Implementation of the EU Deforestation Regulation – platform – E-002230/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002230/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Alexander Bernhuber (PPE)

    A platform[1] has been set up for implementation of Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 on the making available on the Union market and the export from the Union of certain commodities and products associated with deforestation and forest degradation.

    • 1.What real costs have been incurred to date – both one-off and annual costs – for developing the platform and routinely taking charge of it, how have costs compared with initial estimates, and where were those estimates published?
    • 2.What outside firms or service providers have been or are involved in developing, maintaining and operating the platform and, in each case, in return for what one-off or ongoing remuneration?
    • 3.Where and with what provider is the data gathered and processed via the platform being stored (in terms of technical facilities and location) and who is currently responsible for operating and managing the platform (in-house or outsourcing)?

    Submitted: 4.6.2025

    • [1] https://eudr.webcloud.ec.europa.eu/tracesnt/login
    Last updated: 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –