NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Vitaly Savelyev: The International Transport and Logistics Forum is an opportunity to build an open, constructive and mutually beneficial dialogue between the state, business and international partners

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    Vitaly Savelyev held a meeting of the organizing committee for the preparation and holding of the International Transport and Logistics Forum.

    In Moscow, a meeting of the organizing committee for the preparation and holding of the International Transport and Logistics Forum, which will be held in the spring of 2026 in St. Petersburg, was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister Vitaly Savelyev.

    The event was attended by representatives of federal ministries and departments, heads of major transport companies, as well as industry experts and partners.

    “The focus is on the development of international transport corridors, including the North-South ITC, strengthening integration ties within the Union State, the EAEU, the CIS, improving the regulatory framework at the level of global industry regulators, as well as using the potential of such organizations as the SCO and BRICS. Our task is to ensure a high level of preparation and organization of all forum events,” noted Vitaly Savelyev.

    The forum, which will be held in St. Petersburg at the end of April 2026, will become a new strategic platform for a comprehensive discussion of the development of transport logistics, international corridors, legal regulation, digitalization and the implementation of innovative solutions in the transport industry. The Roscongress Foundation has been appointed as the forum operator.

    “We hold many events in the transport sector throughout the year, and with the advent of such a forum, we will be able to clearly structure the annual cycle: in the spring – the international logistics agenda, in the fall – the domestic Russian agenda, as part of the Transport Week. This will allow us to represent Russia’s interests in a coordinated manner at various levels – from the EU and the CIS to BRICS and the SCO,” added Transport Minister Roman Starovoit.

    During the meeting, it was proposed to begin an immediate invitation campaign for foreign and Russian partners. Also in the plans is the development of a corporate style for the forum, the launch of an official website, the formation of a working architecture of the program and the determination of the venue.

    “In this format, we implement the instructions of the President of the Russian Federation to ensure the global competitiveness of our transport corridors, including the implementation of decrees within the framework of national goals until 2030 with a perspective until 2036. The forum is in demand – our international partners have repeatedly said this. We see a high interest in creating such a platform, especially in the inter-forum period, when it will be possible to continue substantive work. Today, the architecture of the forum, including its program content, is being formed with the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other departments. This will not be just an event – it will be a point of attraction for advanced solutions, a demonstration of industry achievements and an international dialogue on logistics and infrastructure,” said Anton Kobyakov, Advisor to the President of Russia, Executive Secretary of the Organizing Committee.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China urges US to stop abusing national security concept

    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 5 (Xinhua) — China has called on the United States to refrain from generalizing and abusing the concept of national security and to work with all parties to safeguard the rules-based multilateral trading system, Ministry of Commerce spokesperson He Yongqian said Thursday.

    He made this statement at a regular departmental press conference when he was asked to comment on the US decision to raise duties on imported steel, aluminum and their derivatives from 25 percent to 50 percent.

    He Yongqian noted that such actions by the US not only cause harm to other countries and themselves, but also seriously disrupt the stability of global production and supply chains.

    He concluded that the United States must abandon the zero-sum mentality, address each side’s concerns through equal dialogue, and jointly maintain the stability of global production and supply chains. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: In the first four months of 2025, the number of Uzbek tourists increased by 23.6 percent

    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

    Tashkent, June 5 (Xinhua) — The number of Uzbek tourists in the first four months of this year increased by 23.6 percent compared to the same period last year, the National Statistics Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan reported on Thursday.

    “According to the National Statistics Committee, 2.1 million citizens of Uzbekistan traveled to foreign countries for tourism purposes in January-April 2025. Their number increased by 404.5 thousand people or 23.6 percent compared to the same period last year,” the report says.

    About 1.7 million Uzbeks reportedly traveled abroad to visit relatives. Other reasons for foreign travel included tourism, medical treatment, study and business trips. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Central Bank Strengthens Financial Support for SMEs

    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 5 (Xinhua) — The People’s Bank of China (PBOC, the central bank) has introduced a series of measures aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in overcoming external uncertainties and stabilizing their operations, said Ding Zhijie, director of the PBOC Institute of Financial Research.

    “The moderately loose monetary policy pursued by the PBOC helps expand the volume of capital investment by financial institutions in the real economy, reduce financing costs for enterprises, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, and enhance their operating stability,” Ding Zhijie said in the latest edition of the China Economic Roundtable, a media discussion program hosted by Xinhua News Agency.

    Ding Zhijie said the PBOC has provided stronger support to small and medium-sized enterprises and reduced the burden of interest on loans for them.

    As of the end of April this year, the outstanding balance of inclusive loans issued to small and micro enterprises reached 34.3 trillion yuan (about 4.77 trillion U.S. dollars), up 11.9 percent year-on-year and outpacing the growth rate of other types of lending.

    Businesses’ financing costs also fell. In April, the weighted average interest rate on new loans to businesses was 3.2 percent, 50 basis points lower than a year earlier.

    The PBOC is prepared to further increase the refinancing quota by 300 billion yuan. The funds will be used to support the agricultural sector and small businesses.

    Ding Zhijie also highlighted the role of guaranteed business start-up loans, a policy instrument introduced in 2016 to support job creation and entrepreneurship in micro and small enterprises.

    The PBOC will continue to encourage banks at all levels to effectively implement this policy measure to increase financial support to stabilize employment, Ding Zhijie said. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: The European Union and the Republic of Moldova confirm their strong partnership at the 9th EU-Moldova Association Council meeting

    Source: Council of the European Union

    On 4 June 2025, the European Union and the Republic of Moldova held their 9th Association Council Meeting where EU reiterated its unwavering support for Moldova’s EU accession process, commending the country’s determination to reform amidst significant challenges.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Hearings – Strengthening media freedom, freedom of expression and safety of journalists – 12-06-2025 – Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    On 12 June, the LIBE Committee will host a Public Hearing on media freedom and the protection of journalists, focusing on the evolving challenges within the EU’s media legal framework. The discussion will address critical threats to democracy in Europe, such as disinformation, manipulation, spyware, and the unlawful surveillance of journalists. This timely debate will explore potential legislative and policy improvements aimed at reinforcing the EU’s commitment to media freedom.

    The hearing will feature a broad panel of experts, including academics, journalists, and representatives from media and press freedom organisations. They will engage directly with Members to share insights and recommendations on how to strengthen protections for journalists and ensure a free and independent press.

    The JURI, CULT, and IMCO Committees will take part in the hearing, and Members of the EUDS are also invited to attend.

    This hearing is part of a wider effort to promote a coordinated and robust response to the threats facing independent journalism in the EU, including the need for strong legal safeguards, practical protection mechanisms, and support for the financial resilience of diverse and independent media outlets.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU-wide ban on flavoured and disposable vapes – E-002114/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002114/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy (Renew)

    The evidence of health and environmental risks is mounting rapidly. Recent data reveals that nearly one third of 15-year-olds in Europe have tried e-cigarettes, while scientific literature increasingly demonstrates that vaping can impair brain development, exacerbate mental health issues and cause respiratory and cardiovascular disease, and has even led to documented deaths from vaping-associated lung injury – with disposable vapes creating massive environmental waste through single-use batteries and plastics.

    The Member States are forced to implement their own ‘gold-plated’ restrictions to protect citizens, prompting 12 countries to call for stronger European legal frameworks in June 2024. National laws alone prove insufficient against the flourishing illegal vape trade where criminal networks easily circumvent restrictions and flood schoolyards with unregulated products.

    • 1.What concrete measures has the Commission implemented to address the concerns raised by the 12 Member States in June 2024 regarding youth vaping, and what timeline does the Commission currently have for applying these measures EU-wide?
    • 2.Is the Commission prepared to invoke Article 20(11) of Directive 2014/40/EU to enact an EU-wide ban on flavoured and disposable vapes via delegated act, following national bans already implemented in three Member States?

    Submitted: 27.5.2025

    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Position of the Council of the EU on new own resources – E-000474/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    As regards the first question asked by the Honourable Members, the Council is working towards and deliberating on the introduction of new own resources, based on the various Commission proposals, in line with the 2020 Interinstitutional Agreement and its Roadmap towards the introduction of new own resources. The Council is committed to the regular dialogue between the institutions to take stock of progress.

    As regards the second question asked by the Honourable Members, the Commission proposals on the table still need careful assessment. It is the Commission’s prerogative to present any additional new proposals in this regard.

    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The role of the EU in protecting minority rights – E-000549/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The respect for the rights of persons belonging to minorities is enshrined in Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union[1]. Article 21 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights (the Charter) prohibits any discrimination including on grounds of ethnic or social origin, language or membership of a national minority.

    As the Charter applies to the Member States only when they are implementing EU law, the Commission ensures, within the remit of its competence, that fundamental rights and, in particular the right to non-discrimination, are respected.

    The 2008 Framework Decision on combating racism and xenophobia[2] obliges Member States to provide for criminal offences regarding certain types of hate speech and hate crime.

    The Commission is not competent to intervene before the national authorities in alleged individual cases of discrimination, hate speech or hate crime.

    It is not foreseen to extend the material scope of the Rule of Law Report to cover the protection of minorities. The report is only one part of a broader effort at EU level to strengthen the founding EU values, including democracy, equality, and respect for human rights.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/resource.html?uri=cellar:2bf140bf-a3f8-4ab2-b506-fd71826e6da6.0023.02/DOC_1&format=PDF.
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex%3A32008F0913
    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Commission has it in for French rail freight – E-001141/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission values and supports rail transport. R ecognising the challenges it is facing, the Commission approved aid worth more than EUR 13.5 billion for investment aid measures between 2008 and 2023, including support for the construction of railway facilities, single wagon load operations, the use of service facilities and the reduction of track access charges.

    In 2024, the Commission presented the draft new state aid rules for Land and multimodal transport, extending the possibilities offered to Member States to finance investment and operating aid for sustainable modes of transport such as rail and inland waterway transport[1].

    Market opening does not explain the difficulties of rail freight in France. Indeed, Member States, despite having all experienced market opening to competition, show different developments between 2006 and 2022.

    While in France, the tonne/kilometres of freight transported by rail declined (-14%), it did increase in Germany (+20%), Belgium (+18%), Denmark (+17%), the Netherlands (+14%) and Poland (+10%)[2].

    The Commission is still investigating the individual State support for Fret SNCF of more than EUR 5 billion. Pending the decision, the French authorities decided to transform Fret SNCF into Hexafret and Technis which started operations in 2025 with no disruption to rail freight services.

    In addition, certain activities of former Fret SNCF have been successfully transferred to other operators bringing new opportunities to those operators and to the market as a whole and fostering competitiveness.

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_24_3346.
    • [2] Source: https://transport.ec.europa.eu/facts-funding/studies-data/eu-transport-figures-statistical-pocketbook/statistical-pocketbook-2024_en.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Eliminating female genital mutilation: European approach and global responsibility – E-000669/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The EU is fully committed to eradicating female genital mutilation (FGM). This commitment is evidenced in Directive 2024/1385 on combating violence against women and domestic violence, adopted in May 2024[1]. The directive requires Member States, by June 2027, to criminalise FGM as a specific criminal offence in their penal codes punishable by a maximum term of imprisonment of at least five years. It also calls on them to ensure that the limitation period to prosecute FGM does not start to run before the victim has reached 18 years of age, to put in place specific prevention measures and trainings for health professionals, to provide victims with specific specialist support, and to collect data on cases of FGM. The Commission will conduct implementation workshops with the Member States and once the transposition period expires, will assess if Member States have complied with the directive. If they have not, the Commission will take necessary measures.

    2. The EU has been supporting projects to combat FGM worldwide, engaging with communities, transforming social norms through collective action. Since 2016, the EU has been working with partners on programmes such as the EU-United Nations Spotlight Initiative to eliminate this practice. Combating FGM has been raised in several bilateral dialogues with third countries and the Commission consistently supports various United Nations resolutions calling for its eradication. The EU will persist in collaborating with global partners to adopt a zero-tolerance stance on FGM, to build a world where every girl and woman can live free from all forms of violence and discrimination.

    • [1] Directive (EU) 2024/1385 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 May 2024 on combating violence against women and domestic violence, OJ L, 2024/1385, 24.5.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2024/1385/oj
    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Toxic waste water from chemical tankers released into the Baltic Sea – E-001265/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission addresses marine pollution through Directive 2008/56/EC[1] which requires Member States to achieve good environmental status in marine waters.

    International standards under the MARPOL Convention[2], particularly Annex II on noxious liquid substances, aim at preventing discharges of polluting substances and are implemented in the EU by Directive 2005/35/EC[3].

    This directive was recently amended[4] to enhance satellite surveillance, improve information exchange, and strengthen enforcement efforts.

    Member States are responsible for monitoring and penalising illegal discharges, and the Commission supports these efforts through fostering collaboration between them.

    At the International Maritime Organisation, the Commission supports its Member States by coordinating the EU position in discussions to improve tank washing procedures globally and reduce the environmental impact of chemical discharges[5] as well as of Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems discharges[6].

    Also, specifically for the Baltic Sea, the EU was involved in drafting Helcom recommendations[7] for port reception facilities where noxious liquid substances are unloaded to receive the tank washings resulting from the application of pre-wash procedures.

    The Commission is pursuing broader measures to address marine pollution[8] and is planning new initiatives under the upcoming Ocean Pact strengthening inter alia the EU’s commitment to protecting marine ecosystems[9]. The Commission recently evaluated the directive 2008/56/EC[10], regularly monitors its implementation[11] and is considering the need for additional measures to strengthen it.

    • [1] Marine Strategy Framework Directive — Directive 2008/56/EC (OJ L 164 25.6.2008, p. 19).
    • [2] International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships.
    • [3] Directive 2005/35/EC as regards ship-source pollution and on the introduction of administrative penalties for infringements (OJ L 255, 30.9.2005, p.11).
    • [4]  Directive (EU) 2024/3101 as regards ship-source pollution (OJ L, 2024/3101, 16.12.2024).
    • [5] 12th session of the sub-committee on Pollution Prevention and Response. 27-31 January 2025. Amendments to MARPOL Annex II in order to improve the effectiveness of cargo tank stripping, tank washing operations and prewash procedures for products with a high melting point and/or high viscosity. Experience in Europe with regard to the effectiveness of MARPOL Annex II amendments for products with a high melting point and/or high viscosity (PPR 12/4).
    • [6] The International Maritime Organisation approved in 2019, a new item work-stream on the ‘Evaluation and harmonisation of rules and guidance on the discharge of liquid effluents from of Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems (EGCS also known as scrubbers) into waters, including conditions and areas’. 2026 is the target completion year.
    • [7] Helcom Recommendation 10/5, Guidelines for the establishment of adequate reception facilities in ports.
    • [8] Directive (EU) 2024/3019 concerning urban wastewater treatment (OJ L, 2024/3019, 12.12.2024); Directive (EU) 2024/1785 on industrial emissions (OJ L, 2024/1785, 15.7.2024); Directive (EU) 2016/802 relating to a reduction in the sulphur content of certain liquid fuels (OJ L 132, 21.5.2016, p. 58-78).
    • [9] Ocean Pact https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/14474-The-European-Oceans-Pact_en.
    • [10] Evaluation of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (SWD(2025) 50 final).
    • [11] Report from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament on the Commission’s assessment of the Member States’ programmes of measures as updated under Article 17 of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (2008/56/EC) (COM/2025/3 final).
    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Far-right intimidation at a trial in Budapest – E-001279/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Publishing online photos and names of members of the audience attending a court hearing and sharing any lists of such attendees constitutes processing of personal data, which must fulfil the requirements of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)[1], including the need for a valid legal basis for the processing, such as the data subject’s informed and freely given consent .

    The monitoring and enforcement of the application of the GDPR in the Member States falls in the competence of national authorities, in particular data protection authorities and courts .

    Without prejudice to its role as guardian of the Treaties, the Commission is not in a position to investigate individual cases of alleged violations of the GDPR or national data protection provisions implementing it.

    The Commission promotes and protects fundamental rights by ensuring that legislative, policy and administrative measures falling under EU competence comply with the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights.

    However, the Commission has no general powers to intervene with the Member States in the area of fundamental rights. It can only do so if an issue of EU law is involved.

    Moreover, issues related to publicity and security during trials such as the one at hand are not regulated under EU law, and are therefore left to the discretion of the Member States.

    It is for Member States to ensure that fundamental rights are effectively respected and protected in accordance with their national legislation and international human rights obligations, such as those stemming from the European Convention on Human Rights.

    The isolated incident referred to in the question is not directly related to judicial independence.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data, and repealing Directive 95/46/EC (General Data Protection Regulation), OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 1-88.
    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Chinese companies suspected of corruption carrying out European Global Gateway projects – E-001172/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The eligibility rules applicable to procurement contractors under Global Gateway are laid down in Regulation (EU) 2021/947[1]. Accordingly, when the Commission implements EU funds directly or through partner countries in indirect management, entities established in China are not eligible, unless China participates in the concerned EU-funded action as a donor or as a beneficiary of the action.

    When EU funds are implemented in indirect management with pillar-assessed entities[2], such entities apply their own eligibility rules on access to procurement. Therefore, depending on the rules of the pillar-assessed entities, companies established in China may be eligible.

    Where the procurement procedure is carried out by the Commission or by a partner country, the provisions on abnormally low tenders and foreign subsidies of the Financial Regulation[3] also apply.

    U nder the same legal framework, entities that are subject to a final judgment or final administrative decision finding them guilty of fraud, corruption, or any other crime or misconduct[4] shall be excluded from participating or implementing EU funds and they shall be rejected from a procurement award.

    Other related entities such as beneficial owners, affiliated entities, persons exercising powers of representation, decision or control, persons assuming liability for the excluded entity, etc. may also be excluded.

    In case of funds entrusted in indirect management to pillar-assessed entities and before signing contribution or guarantee agreements, the rules of the partners must have been positively assessed by the Commission, in accordance with the Financial Regulation[5], ensuring that implementing partners have, among others, equivalent rules for procurement and exclusion from access to funding.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2021/947 of 9 June 2021 establishing the Neighbourhood, Development and International
      Cooperation Instrument — Global Europe, amending and repealing Decision No 466/2014/EU and repealing
      Regulation (EU) 2017/1601 and Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 480/2009, OJ L 209, 14.6.2021, p. 1-78, http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/947/oj.
    • [2] Such as the World Bank or other international finance institutions.
    • [3] Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 September 2024 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union (recast), OJ L, 2024/2509, 26.9.2024, http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/2509/oj.
    • [4] Article 138 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509.
    • [5] Article 157(4) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 .

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Europol’s cooperation with Libyan authorities – E-002104/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002104/2025
    to the Council
    Rule 144
    Özlem Demirel (The Left)

    A number of employees from Libya’s Criminal Police, Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Foreign Affairs have visited Europol, primarily in the context of the fight against migration. There are plans for further shadowing and training, including at Europol’s European Migrant Smuggling Centre.

    • 1.Which Libyan police authorities and ministries have visited Europol on the subject of ‘combating human trafficking and smuggling (and when), and what further visits are planned (and for when)?
    • 2.What kind of possible future cooperation with Europol was envisaged with these visits, and to what extent has this cooperation taken shape since?
    • 3.To what extent were the visits also undertaken with a view to setting up joint international investigation teams, a specialised team of criminal investigators in Libya or cooperation with Europol’s European Migrant Smuggling Centre, and what has been decided in this regard?

    Submitted: 26.5.2025

    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Impact of the Mobility Package and the Road Transport Agreement with Ukraine on the Polish transport sector – E-002109/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002109/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Marcin Sypniewski (ESN)

    The Polish transport sector, which is a major pillar of the country’s economy, is currently facing a serious crisis as a result of EU rules and growing competition from non-EU carriers, in particular from Ukraine. The introduction of the Mobility Package brings with it additional obligations and costs for carriers from Member States, while Ukrainian carriers are not subject to the same rules.

    Polish transport companies point to a growing competitive imbalance, a decline in orders and difficulties arising from the liberalisation of the Road Transport Agreement with Ukraine, which has been extended until the end of 2025.

    In this connection:

    • 1.Is the Commission conducting or planning to conduct an impact analysis of the implementation and application of the Mobility Package, with particular emphasis on its impact on the competitiveness and financial standing of transport businesses in Member States?
    • 2.What measures is the Commission taking or planning to take to protect the interests of businesses in countries such as Poland, which are particularly vulnerable to unfair competition from Ukrainian carriers not subject to EU rules?
    • 3.What are the Commission’s plans for the Road Transport Agreement with Ukraine post-2025, and does it envisage making changes to how it functions, if so, when and how does it intend to take into account the demands of Polish carriers, with a view to ensuring fair competition and level playing field in the EU’s common transport market?

    Submitted: 26.5.2025

    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Public Hearing on Media Freedom and Journalist Protection – Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    Media freedom © Image used under the license from Adobe Stock

    On 12 June, the LIBE Committee will host a Public Hearing on media freedom and the protection of journalists, focusing on the evolving challenges within the EU’s media legal framework.

    Independent media are key to democracy and the rule of law, but face growing threats. The event will address EU legal challenges and explore reforms to strengthen press freedom, safeguard journalists, and ensure media sustainability, focusing on challenges as disinformation, surveillance, and manipulation.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Micro-enterprises’ limited access to EU funds – E-002124/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002124/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Kosma Złotowski (ECR)

    Micro-enterprises, which make up over 90 % of all businesses in the EU, play a key role in creating jobs, supporting local economies and preserving traditional crafts and services. In many regions – particularly rural, mountainous and remote regions – they are at the heart of local economic activity, employing not only their owners, but often entire families and communities.

    However, micro-enterprises, especially those in traditional sectors such as skilled crafts, vehicle mechanics, local trade and small-scale production, face significant barriers in accessing EU funds, including the European Regional Development Fund, the Cohesion Fund and national programmes co-financed with the EU. Issues include complicated application processes, high entry thresholds, the cost of project documents and a lack of systemic advisory support.

    • 1.What steps will the Commission take to simplify processes and criteria for micro-enterprises to access EU funds, especially in traditional sectors of the economy that do not directly relate to innovation, digitalisation and the green transition, but are still hugely important at social and local level?
    • 2.Is the Commission considering introducing special financial support instruments and simplified funding routes aimed exclusively at micro-enterprises that have limited access to advisory services and professional companies supporting the application process?
    • 3.What monitoring and analysis mechanisms are used to assess whether support from EU funds is also fairly reaching micro-enterprises?

    Submitted: 27.5.2025

    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Concerns about Chinese hacks of Deutsche Telekom and potential implications for the Commission’s IT infrastructure – E-002101/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002101/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Bart Groothuis (Renew)

    According to a blog post[1] by the cybersecurity company Eclectic IQ, a Chinese hacker group, UNC5221, is responsible for a hack of Germany’s largest telecommunications company, Deutsche Telekom, as well as its subsidiaries that provide IT services. The blog also reveals that this hacker group has targeted other strategic sectors in Europe.

    According to other sources, a subsidiary of Deutsche Telekom, T-Systems, also provides services to the Commission. T-Systems has even been designated as a ‘preferred supplier’ of the Commission for the provision of IT infrastructure. This raises serious questions about the security of the EU’s IT infrastructure.

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of this hack, has the Commission itself been affected, and what measures does the Commission take to manage such risks?
    • 2.Why are strategically sensitive hacks such as these not publicly disclosed, and does the Commission agree that silence about such breaches actually facilitates their continuation within Europe?
    • 3.What steps is the Commission taking towards the Chinese authorities in response to these attacks, and what additional measures is the Commission considering to prevent such attacks in the future?

    Submitted: 26.5.2025

    • [1] Büyükkaya, A., ‘China-Nexus Threat Actor Actively Exploiting Ivanti Endpoint Manager Mobile (CVE-2025-4428) Vulnerability’, EclecticIQ, 21 May 2025, https://blog.eclecticiq.com/china-nexus-threat-actor-actively-exploiting-ivanti-endpoint-manager-mobile-cve-2025-4428-vulnerability.
    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Frontex aircraft in third countries for the first time – E-002099/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002099/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Özlem Demirel (The Left)

    Frontex launched its first surveillance flights to take off from outside the EU from Tirana International Airport in Albania. The aircraft patrolled both Albanian and Montenegrin border areas, and images were beamed in real time to both the national authorities of the two countries and the Frontex headquarters in Warsaw. The border agency described this as a ‘new chapter’ enabling the early detection of irregular migration, more effective prevention of crime, and improved coordination of search and rescue operations.

    • 1.When did the operations begin, and how many flight hours are they expected to account for each year?
    • 2.Under which category do these flights fall (e.g. Frontex aerial surveillance service (FASS), multipurpose aerial service (MAS), joint operations), and which national authorities are involved?
    • 3.With what other third countries are negotiations under way for this kind of external operation, and what other operations are already in the pipeline?

    Submitted: 26.5.2025

    Last updated: 5 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The key role of transatlantic cooperation in ensuring military mobility during the war in Ukraine – E-002097/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002097/2025
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Michał Dworczyk (ECR)

    Almost a decade has passed since the EU turned its attention towards military mobility. However, the plans have not been backed up by funding. Poland and other countries on the eastern flank have repeatedly emphasised that transport infrastructure is an integral part of the security architecture.

    The events of 2022 confirmed this diagnosis. Military mobility has become a key element of the West’s response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The United States has played a particularly important role, rapidly redeploying its armed forces to Central and Eastern Europe and actively supporting Ukraine through arms deliveries and effective coordination of logistics routes. Only thanks to American logistical capabilities, military reserves and efficient command was possible to act quickly and effectively strengthen security in the region.

    The war in Ukraine has tested many of the assumptions underlying EU strategies. In practice, it was the Member States, NATO and the US that played a crucial role in responding to the crisis. My country has become a key hub for supporting Ukraine and European security.

    In light of the above:

    • 1.When planning new EU policies in the areas of defence policy and military mobility, does the Commission take into account the role played by the United States in the first weeks of the war in Ukraine?
    • 2.In the event of a new security crisis, would the EU today be able to carry out a large-scale deployment of troops and equipment on its own, without US support?
    • 3.In light of recent experiences and operational realities, is the requirement for a high percentage of EU-sourced components in the defence initiatives proposed by the Commission a realistic and strategically responsible approach towards allies who have proven to be crucial in times of crisis?

    Submitted: 26.5.2025

    Last updated: 5 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Influence of left-wing organisations on the list of safe countries of origin – E-002121/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002121/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Mary Khan (ESN), Petra Steger (PfE)

    At his LIBE hearing on 12 May 2025[1], Michael Schotter, Director in the Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs (DG HOME), stated that the list of safe countries of origin at EU level is based on recommendations from the EU Asylum Agency, which in turn relies on information from the European External Action Service (EEAS) and UNHCR. The latter in particular increasingly acts as a lobby for a largely barrier-free immigration policy. This casts a doubt over the credibility of the ‘restrictive’ asylum policy announced by Commissioner Brunner. If the advice on policy-making is coming from organisations that are clearly pushing for mass migration, any promises of tightening will prove to be empty. If anything, it seems that Brussels is deliberately trying to replace national lists of safe countries of origin with centralised EU lists in order to ultimately undermine countries’ sustainable restrictive asylum policies.

    • 1.How will the Commission effectively strengthen asylum rules if it continues to seek advice from organisations like the UNHCR, which clearly pursue a mass migration agenda?
    • 2.What other external actors and NGOs currently have a direct or indirect influence on the process of establishing the list of safe countries of origin?
    • 3.Will the Commission take measures to ensure balanced ideological representation among the organisations involved in the process of assessing safe countries of origin in future?

    Submitted: 27.5.2025

    • [1] https://multimedia.europarl.europa.eu/en/webstreaming/libe-committee-meeting_20250512-1500-COMMITTEE-LIBE
    Last updated: 5 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – Meeting on the situation of disabled Palestinians in the oPt – 05/06/2025 – Delegation for relations with Palestine

    Source: European Parliament

    The meeting of the delegation took place in Brussels, on Thursday, 5 June 2025 at 10:00 – 11:30 and was devoted to an exchange of views on the situation of disabled Palestinians in the Occupied Palestinian Territories with:

    • MsMilena Ansari, Palestinian lawyer and Human Rights Watch researcher based in Jerusalem
    • Ms Nadia Hadad, from European Disability Forum Executive Committee
    • Ms Shatha Abusrour and Mr Mohammed Al-Arabi, Palestinian disability right activists

    The meeting was webstreamed through the European Parliament’s Multimedia Centre.

    Interpretation services were available in English, French, Italian, and Arabic

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Heavy metal pollution in the estuary of the Guadalquivir and shortcomings in EU water legislation – E-002123/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002123/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Jaume Asens Llodrà (Verts/ALE)

    Recent studies by the universities of Granada, Cádiz and Seville revealed high levels of heavy metals in sediment from the estuary of the River Guadalquivir(Andalusia, Spain) and that they have had ecotoxic effects. They have come from the copper mine in Las Cruces, which has been labelled strategic by the EU but was previously condemned for contaminating an aquifer with arsenic. What is more, metals, particularly lead, have been found to have bioaccumulated in fish near the discharge area. This state of affairs poses a serious threat to environmental health, public health and thousands of jobs in the Guadalquivir Estuary.

    It also shows shortcomings in the implementation of the Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC), particularly in the prevention of pollution by mined toxic metals and metaloids. In Spain, metals are regulated in water, but not in sediment, which is where they usually accumulate.

    In the light of these findings:

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to revise that directive to include mandatory checks on metals in sediment and biota?
    • 2.Is it considering proposing a temporary moratorium on the discharge of mining waste into vulnerable basins like the Guadalquivir’s?
    • 3.What monitoring mechanisms has it set up to ensure that areas with intense mining activity remain in a good ecological state?

    Submitted: 27.5.2025

    Last updated: 5 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Video: Third UN Ocean Conference – why does it matter? | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, Li Junhua will chair the third UN Ocean Conference from June 9-13, 2025 in Nice, France.
    He explains to UN News why this is a major opportunity for sustainable development.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ulb8wClknJs

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Use of US digital platforms in EU projects – E-002131/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002131/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Liesbet Sommen (PPE)

    For digitalisation projects at EU and Member State level, software from large, non-European tech firms such as Salesforce, Microsoft, Google and Amazon Web Services is still being opted for in many instances. This trend raises questions about the geopolitical context, market access for European players and embedding public values within public procurement.

    In view of growing trade tensions between the EU and the US, it is apt to assess to what extent, in terms of digital policy, the EU and its Member States are acting strategically independently. At the same time, there is a need for a framework in which public values such as transparency, reusability of technology and data sovereignty are central and are factored in to procurement procedures.

    European start-ups and tech firms that are well established also offer innovative, qualitative alternatives. Greater recognition of their role would strengthen the resilience and strategic autonomy of the European digital economy.

    • 1.Can the Commission provide an overview of recent European digitalisation projects for which US software platforms were chosen and say what the selection criteria were for those choices?
    • 2.As part of procurement procedures, is the availability of high-quality European alternatives systematically looked into? If so, how are they compared with international suppliers?
    • 3.Is the Commission considering incorporating into future procurement rules additional criteria that explicitly factor in strategic autonomy, data sovereignty, transparency and strengthening of the European digital economy?

    Submitted: 28.5.2025

    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Recognising the opportunities presented by RENURE – E-002120/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002120/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Sander Smit (PPE)

    RENURE[1][2] offers several benefits that are closely aligned with the European Union’s economic, geopolitical and environmental objectives. First, it promotes the circular use of nutrients, which is essential for sustainable agriculture. Furthermore, RENURE contributes to reducing energy dependence by exploiting the methane, or biogas, released as climate-friendly green gas.

    The recovery of phosphorus – identified as a critical raw material under the Critical Raw Materials Act[3] – reduces strategic dependence on imports from third countries. Moreover, RENURE contributes to CO₂ reduction by rendering the use of synthetic fertilisers unnecessary. Applying nitrogen separately from phosphate also avoids unnecessary phosphate loading of agricultural land.

    Finally, the underlying technologies and innovations are more widely applicable, for instance for nutrient recovery from sewage sludge. The above illustrates that RENURE perfectly matches the biotech and innovation ambitions of the European Union.

    • 1.Does the Commission recognise the potential of RENURE for application within Europe and as an export product?
    • 2.Does the Commission recognise the special added value of RENURE, both ecologically and economically, particularly in regions which specialise in livestock farming?
    • 3.How does the Commission view the past few years in which the development and application of RENURE has actually been delayed despite calls for action from Parliament?

    Submitted: 27.5.2025

    • [1] European Commission JRC Science for Policy Report, ‘Technical proposals for the safe use of processed manure above the threshold established for Nitrate Vulnerable Zones by the Nitrates Directive (91/676/EEC)’, 2020.
    • [2] European Commission, Draft Commission Directive amending Council Directive 91/676/EEC as regards the use of certain fertilising materials from livestock manure, Ref. Ares(2024)2885619 – 19 April 2024, unpublished draft.
    • [3] Regulation (EU) 2024/1252 – Critical Raw Materials Act, OJ L 202, 19.4.2024, p. 1–72.
    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Dependence on Russia in the ITER nuclear fusion project in the context of the roadmap towards ending Russian energy imports – E-002074/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002074/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Andrea Wechsler (PPE), Borys Budka (PPE), Matej Tonin (PPE)

    The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project aims to achieve fusion power production at power-plant scale. The Russian Federation is a member of the project.

    As part of its recent roadmap to phase out Russian energy imports, the Commission announced additional steps to reduce dependence on these sources. However, it remains silent on fusion energy and thus, in particular, the Russian Federation’s membership of ITER and its involvement in its governance and funding (9.1 %), and intellectual property contributions to it. Moreover, Russia is making substantial ‘in kind’ contributions (e.g. through the delivery of components for the power supply and protection of the superconducting magnets).

    • 1.How does the Commission plan to phase-out dependence on Russian participation in ITER, particularly in relation to membership, governance involvement, funding and in kind contributions, and what role could the proposal for the European radioisotope valley initiative play in this context?
    • 2.How does the Commission plan to secure the operation of ITER in the light of the project’s dependence on Russian intellectual property rights?
    • 3.Will the Commission support the establishment of an independent EU fusion energy project and a diversification of the fusion industry landscape through increased funding to private sector companies?

    Submitted: 22.5.2025

    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Protecting children from irreversible damage derived from puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones – E-002093/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002093/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Tomislav Sokol (PPE)

    Given the Health Commissioner’s responsibility for EU pharmaceutical legislation, the policy shift on gender healthcare for minors in several EU Member States (Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Italy) since the Cass Report, the US Department of Health and Human Services’ Comprehensive Review of Medical Interventions for Children and Adolescents with Gender Dysphoria, and the World Professional Association for Transgender Health file-leak scandal that discredited these practices:

    • 1.Can the Commission provide an overview of the adverse reactions to off-label and puberty blockers that have been disapproved for use (such as Triptorelin, Leuprolide, Histrelin, Goserelin) and cross-sex hormones prescribed to children experiencing gender dysphoria in the EU?
    • 2.Under the EU pharmacovigilance system, is there any project specifically designed to document, raise awareness of and tackle those adverse reactions?
    • 3.One of the announced responsibilities of the Health Commissioner is an ‘EU-wide inquiry on the broader impacts of social media on well-being’. Will this inquiry tackle the phenomenon associated with the skyrocketing number of minors referred to gender units in healthcare facilities?

    Submitted: 26.5.2025

    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Infringement of the EU-Central America free trade agreement in Panama – E-002130/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002130/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Marina Mesure (The Left)

    For several weeks, the Government of Panama has been cracking down on, and infringing the rights of, trade unionists in Panama, in the midst of extensive protests against Law 462 reforming the social security system. After the SUNTRACS union had its bank accounts frozen and received heavy administrative fines, a number of its leaders were arrested and imprisoned. The detention of these protestors is a serious violation of international fundamental freedoms, and the ILO Committee on Freedom of Association has urged the government to reopen SUNTRACS’s accounts and protect trade unionists. Panama’s Ombudsman has also recognised that these actions constitute human rights infringements.

    The European Union is tied to Panama through the Association Agreement with Central America. The agreement’s trade provisions are conditional upon respect for fundamental rights, including freedom of association, in accordance with the chapter on trade and sustainable development.

    In view of the clear infringement of these conditions:

    • 1.Will the Commission demand the immediate release of the imprisoned trade unionists, on the basis of the agreement signed between the EU and Panama?
    • 2.Will it reassess the validity of this trade agreement given the climate of intimidation Panama’s Government has created against the trade union movement?

    Submitted: 28.5.2025

    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –