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  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ Budget 2025: anything less than a 5% increase in health funding amounts to merely standing still

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tim Tenbensel, Professor of Health Policy, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

    Health Minister Simeon Brown. Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images

    Minister of Health Simeon Brown claimed earlier this year that health funding in New Zealand has never been higher and that suggestions of underfunding are “fake news”.

    On the bare statistics, Brown isn’t wrong. The allocation to Vote Health has indeed increased from NZ$18.2 billion in 2018-19 to $29.6 billion in the 2024-25 budget.

    Yet for many working in the publicly-funded health system things have never seemed so bad, with daily stories of under-staffing and increasing levels of stress.

    So, how much should the government be spending on health? Any answer needs to factor in the broader context of the health system, and where we sit historically and comparatively.

    The health system is subject to significant cost pressures, few of which are unique to New Zealand. People are generally living longer, but more of that longer life span is spent in ill health.

    At the same time, New Zealand’s population profile has changed significantly over the past 40 years. There is a lower proportion of working-age people paying income tax to support those who are older.

    Technological advances, on balance, drive up health expenditure – more is possible, so more is expected. And compared with other parts of the economy, health services are labour-intensive.

    Around two thirds of health expenditure is on staff, and health workforce shortages are a global problem (again, driven by demographic change). All these factors mean health costs rise faster than inflation.

    Taking all of this into account, a recent health economics analysis calculated that to continue to deliver the same level of service in the United Kingdom (which has very similar health system characteristics to New Zealand), public spending on health would need to increase by 2.8% in real terms (above inflation) each year.

    Then we need to factor in population growth, which has recently been between 1.5% and 2% per year in New Zealand. In this context, a 4-5% increase in Vote Health amounts to merely standing still.

    People are living longer, but more of that longer life is spent in ill health.
    Getty Images

    Long-term deterioration

    We also need to put our current situation in historical and international context.

    The most appropriate indicator for international comparison is “publicly mandated health expenditure” (PMHE) as a percentage of GDP, as this excludes private expenditure (private health insurance and “out of pocket” payments).

    Total health spending typically constitutes 10-12% of GDP in high-income countries, and PMHE is typically around 8%. In the 2010s, however, New Zealand’s PMHE dropped from 7.8% (2012) to 7% of GDP (2017). Meanwhile, Australia, Canada and the UK all remained at or above 8% during that time.

    This represents a significant long-term deterioration which heightened the stress on our health system before and after the COVID pandemic.

    Even when our PMHE as a percentage of GDP is comparable to Australia and other countries, our per-capita health expenditure is significantly less because our GDP per-capita is lower.

    The most significant budget boost in recent years was in 2022. But this was largely soaked up by pay rises for health professionals that resulted from underfunding during the 2010s.

    The current government finds itself in a very tight spot. This is partly because of international economic conditions and demographic trends, but also due to self-imposed constraints.

    Even in such a large budget, there’ll be little room for major initiatives in health unless savings are found from existing areas. That is rarely feasible in health. As is true in most years, there could be up to three big-ticket items. If so, what should they be?

    What Budget 2025 should include

    First, the government needs to boost capital expenditure in health. A recent analysis by the UK Institute for Government shows that public service productivity, including in the health sector, fell sharply during and after the COVID pandemic. The New Zealand treasury reported similar productivity declines.

    The UK report concluded these declines were primarily due to physical capacity constraints – clinical staff can’t be more productive when there is not enough physical space and diagnostic equipment.

    Earlier this month, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced a $400 million increase in the annual capital allowance across all of government. Let’s see how much of the total $4 billion capital allowance is channelled into health.

    A second priority should be primary healthcare. Here, the health minister has already announced a range of initiatives, headlined by $285 million of additional performance-based funding over three years. This is a welcome commitment, and the most significant boost in primary care funding since the mid-2000s.

    However, it’s unlikely this will redress erosion over the past 20 years of primary care “capitation” funding (the amount a GP practice receives per enrolled patient).

    This funding formula also needs to be modernised to better reflect where needs are highest and account for rising acuity and complexity of conditions in primary healthcare. This would relieve some pressures on hospital emergency departments and medical wards.

    Third, investment to retain and attract health workers across the whole sector is vital. Given the demographic and epidemiological changes, proactively preparing for a mid-21st-century health workforce will require funding to support emerging models of health services, particularly in primary and community settings, including programmes such as Access and Choice and comprehensive primary and community care teams.

    These priorities, and any government commitment to them in Budget 2025, must be understood against the backdrop of sustained historical underfunding.

    The government is likely to claim health is a big winner in Budget 2025. Unless increases are significantly greater than 5%, such a claim will bring little respite to the health sector.

    In any case, the race that counts is a marathon, not a sprint. New Zealand is well back in the field, struggling not to lose further ground.

    Tim Tenbensel receives funding from the New Zealand Health Research Council.

    – ref. NZ Budget 2025: anything less than a 5% increase in health funding amounts to merely standing still – https://theconversation.com/nz-budget-2025-anything-less-than-a-5-increase-in-health-funding-amounts-to-merely-standing-still-255593

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New AJC Op-Ed: 42,000 New Jobs in Georgia Could Vanish if GOP Tax Bill Passes Warns Warnock

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    New AJC Op-Ed: 42,000 New Jobs in Georgia Could Vanish if GOP Tax Bill Passes Warns Warnock

    Read the op-ed HERE

    Senator Reverend Warnock penned an op-ed in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC) outlining how Georgia risks losing up to 42,000 good-paying jobs if Washington Republicans repeal the Inflation Reduction Act’s (IRA) Clean Energy Tax Credits

    These endangered clean energy tax credits support 51 clean energy projects worth over $28 billion, largely outside metro Atlanta

    Senator Reverend Warnock in the AJC: “If the President and Congressional Republicans were serious about bringing American manufacturing back to the United States, as I am, they would protect these tax credits”

    Senator Reverend Warnock in the AJC: “Politics has a way of trying to make easy stuff, complicated. I’ll tell you what’s not complicated – 51 new projects worth $28 billion all across our state and up to 42,000 new jobs”

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) penned an op-ed in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC) warning that 42,000 good-paying Georgia jobs could be at risk if Congress passes the GOP tax bill, which repeals the Inflation Reduction Act’s (IRA) Clean Energy Tax Credits. The Senator called on his House GOP colleagues to protect good-paying Georgia jobs. 

    “If Washington Republicans move forward with a GOP tax bill that repeals these clean energy tax credits, it’s their districts that will lose jobs and private investments: three out of four clean energy projects that were announced or boosted following the passage of these tax credits have gone to House districts held by Republicans. This is especially true in Georgia: 80% of the projects, 94% of the total investments, and 75% of the proposed new jobs and investments are in Congressional districts represented by Republicans,” warned Senator Reverend Warnock. “By repealing clean energy tax credits to give a tax cut to the wealthy and well-connected, Washington Republicans could cause Georgia to lose up to 42,000 jobs in communities desperate for new jobs and investments. If the President and Congressional Republicans were serious about bringing American manufacturing back to the United States, as I am, they would protect these tax credits.”

    The op-ed follows the release of the Senator’s comprehensive report that found Georgia risks losing up to 42,000 good-paying jobs if Washington Republicans repeal the clean energy tax credits. Since the tax credit’s passage, clean energy jobs and investments exploded across the country, but nowhere was that growth more potent than in Georgia. In less than three years, 51 new projects in Georgia worth over $28 billion have been announced or boosted by the clean energy tax credits. According to the Senator’s report, in Georgia, nearly all the new investments and new jobs are in counties outside of the Atlanta region. Over 70 percent of the new investments and 83 percent of new jobs are in counties with median family incomes below the national median. More than 95 percent of the new jobs and investments are in counties where the percentage of people with a bachelor’s degree is below the national average.

    The full op-ed is available HERE and below. 

    This week, Washington politicians are voting on partisan legislation to cut taxes for billionaires by repealing clean energy tax credits that are creating tens of thousands of manufacturing jobs and are bringing billions of investments to communities across Georgia. It’s up to us to speak out and keep these good-paying, advanced manufacturing jobs coming to communities that are too often overlooked.

    The sad truth is cynical politicians want to repeal these tax credits because they were passed by a Democratic Congress and signed into law by a Democratic president. They’re so focused on the politics that they’re willing to take good-paying jobs, which often don’t require a college degree, away from their constituents. If we set politics aside and center what’s best for ordinary people, there’s no doubt everyone would come together to protect these tax credits and thousands of Georgia jobs.

    During my first term in the Senate, I was proud to champion these clean energy tax credits, which were passed as part of landmark climate legislation in August 2022. Since then, clean energy investment has exploded across Georgia. In less than three years, businesses have announced or advanced 51 new projects worth over $28 billion in our state. In fact, Georgia has benefited from these clean industry tax credits more than any other state. New projects are expected to add nearly 42,000 jobs across all corners of Georgia. More than 95% of these new jobs are outside metro Atlanta, and these projects overwhelmingly benefit places where folks are less likely to have a college degree and don’t earn as much as the average American. 

    This month, I laid out the benefits of these tax credits in a report that outlines Georgia’s Clean Energy Boom. In an era defined by gridlock, Democrats and Republicans across the state agree: these clean energy manufacturing jobs are good for Georgians and their families.

    Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene said solar panel manufacturer Qcells, which will invest over $2.5 billion in projects across Georgia, partially thanks to these tax credits, is “fantastic” and claims her constituents are “excited to have jobs”. Congressman Barry Loudermilk, whose congressional district is home to a future Qcells facility, praised the company’s solar panel production as a “win for our state” and a “great source of jobs”.

    Congressman Buddy Carter has noted that “countless American companies” have used the tax credits to make “major investments” in clean energy. His constituents alone stand to benefit from 11 new clean energy projects representing nearly $7.9 billion in investments and 7,400 new jobs announced after these tax credits were signed into law. The congressman has supported preserving these private sector investments, which he said, “increase domestic manufacturing, promote energy innovation, and keep utility costs down.”

    If Washington Republicans move forward with a GOP tax bill that repeals these clean energy tax credits, it’s their districts that will lose jobs and private investments: three out of four clean energy projects that were announced or boosted following the passage of these tax credits have gone to House districts held by Republicans. This is especially true in Georgia: 80% of the projects, 94% of the total investments, and 75% of the proposed new jobs and investments are in Congressional districts represented by Republicans.

    By repealing clean energy tax credits to give a tax cut to the wealthy and well-connected, Washington Republicans could cause Georgia to lose up to 42,000 jobs in communities desperate for new jobs and investments. If the President and Congressional Republicans were serious about bringing American manufacturing back to the United States, as I am, they would protect these tax credits.

    Politics has a way of trying to make easy stuff, complicated. I’ll tell you what’s not complicated – 51 new projects worth $28 billion all across our state and up to 42,000 new jobs. Georgians are smart enough to know who is actually looking out for them. Now, it’s up to Georgians to ask their Congressional representatives: when the GOP tax bill comes up for a vote, are you going to protect good-paying Georgia jobs?

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA’s Perseverance Mars Rover to Take Bite Out of ‘Krokodillen’

    Source: NASA

    Scientists expect the new area of interest on the lower slope of Jezero Crater’s rim to offer up some of the oldest rocks on the Red Planet.
    NASA’s Perseverance Mars rover is exploring a new region of interest the team is calling “Krokodillen” that may contain some of the oldest rocks on Mars. The area has been on the Perseverance science team’s wish list because it marks an important boundary between the oldest rocks of Jezero Crater’s rim and those of the plains beyond the crater.
    “The last five months have been a geologic whirlwind,” said Ken Farley, deputy project scientist for Perseverance from Caltech in Pasadena. “As successful as our exploration of “Witch Hazel Hill” has been, our investigation of Krokodillen promises to be just as compelling.”
    Named by Perseverance mission scientists after a mountain ridge on the island of Prins Karls Forland, Norway, Krokodillen (which means “the crocodile” in Norwegian) is a 73-acre (about 30-hectare) plateau of rocky outcrops located downslope to the west and south of Witch Hazel Hill.
    A quick earlier investigation into the region revealed the presence of clays in this ancient bedrock. Because clays require liquid water to form, they provide important clues about the environment and habitability of early Mars. The detection of clays elsewhere within the Krokodillen region would reinforce the idea that abundant liquid water was present sometime in the distant past, likely before Jezero Crater was formed by the impact of an asteroid. Clay minerals are also known on Earth for preserving organic compounds, the building blocks of life.
    “If we find a potential biosignature here, it would most likely be from an entirely different and much earlier epoch of Mars evolution than the one we found last year in the crater with ‘Cheyava Falls,’” said Farley, referring to a rock sampled in July 2024 with chemical signatures and structures that could have been formed by life long ago. “The Krokodillen rocks formed before Jezero Crater was created, during Mars’ earliest geologic period, the Noachian, and are among the oldest rocks on Mars
    Data collected from NASA’s Mars orbiters suggest that the outer edges of Krokodillen may also have areas rich in olivine and carbonate. While olivine forms from magma, carbonate minerals on Earth typically form during a reaction in liquid water between rock and dissolved carbon dioxide. Carbonate minerals on Earth are known to be excellent preservers of fossilized ancient microbial life and recorders of ancient climate.
    The rover, which celebrated its 1,500th day of surface operations on May 9, is currently analyzing a rocky outcrop in Krokodillen called “Copper Cove” that may contain Noachian rocks.
    Ranking Mars Rocks
    The rover’s arrival at Krokodillen comes with a new sampling strategy for the nuclear-powered rover that allows for leaving some cored samples unsealed in case the mission finds a more scientifically compelling geologic feature down the road.
    To date, Perseverance has collected and sealed two regolith (crushed rock and dust) samples, three witness tubes, and one atmospheric sample. It has also collected 26 rock cores and sealed 25 of them. The rover’s one unsealed sample is its most recent, a rock core taken on April 28 that the team named “Bell Island,” which contains small round stones called spherules. If at some point the science team decides a new sample should take its place, the rover could be commanded to remove the tube from its bin in storage and dump the previous sample.
    “We have been exploring Mars for over four years, and every single filled sample tube we have on board has its own unique and compelling story to tell,” said Perseverance acting project scientist Katie Stack Morgan of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California. “There are seven empty sample tubes remaining and a lot of open road in front of us, so we’re going to keep a few tubes — including the one containing the Bell Island core — unsealed for now. This strategy allows us maximum flexibility as we continue our collection of diverse and compelling rock samples.”
    Before the mission adopted its new strategy, the engineering sample team assessed whether leaving a tube unsealed could diminish the quality of a sample. The answer was no.
    “The environment inside the rover met very strict standards for cleanliness when the rover was built. The tube is also oriented in such a way within its individual storage bin that the likelihood of extraneous material entering the tube during future activities, including sampling and drives, is very low,” said Stack Morgan.   
    In addition, the team assessed whether remnants of a sample that was dumped could “contaminate” a later sample. “Although there is a chance that any material remaining in the tube from the previous sample could come in contact with the outside of a new sample,” said Stack Morgan, “it is a very minor concern — and a worthwhile exchange for the opportunity to collect the best and most compelling samples when we find them.”
    News Media Contact
    DC AgleJet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif.818-393-9011agle@jpl.nasa.gov
    Karen Fox / Molly WasserNASA Headquarters, Washington202-358-1600karen.c.fox@nasa.gov / molly.l.wasser@nasa.gov  
    2025-071

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: First Partner joins conversation on expanding access to capital for female founders

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 19, 2025

    SACRAMENTO — First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom joined Marcie Frost (CEO, CalPERS) and Cassandra Lichnock (CEO, CalSTRS) at the annual Catalyst event for a candid conversation on the role California’s public institutions can play in opening access to funding for women and diverse entrepreneurs.

    California is now the fourth largest economy in the world and the center of the world’s investment-backed innovation economy, with Bay Area venture capitalists alone raising more than $151 billion in funds over the past five years— more than the rest of the U.S. combined. Yet, women and underrepresented voices are systematically overlooked: 

    • In 2023, women-founded companies raised $3.2 billion from VCs, just 2.8% of all U.S. VC activity. In comparison, all-male-founded companies raised $114 billion. (Pitchbook and Deloitte, Carta)
    • Women of color received just 0.39% of VC funding in 2023 and 0.13% of funding in 2022. (Fearless Fund)
    • Although the percentage of female VC check writers has grown from 9% to 15.5% in the U.S, 64% of venture firms still don’t have any female partners (female investors who are able to write checks). (All Raise)

    “California is the global center of the innovation economy because we embrace new ways of thinking and fresh ideas. But if we’re missing out on more than half of the population’s entrepreneurial breakthroughs, we’re leaving a lot on the table. The current system doesn’t reflect a lack of talent. It reflects a lack of access and that’s something we must change. And it’s something we’re uniquely positioned to do here in California. Because we know that when women and diverse founders lead, they deliver results —not just for investors—but for entire communities.”

    First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom

    At the event, Siebel Newsom, Frost, and Lichnock also discussed how California is making strides to shift the structural conditions that limit economic opportunity for all: 

    • CalPERS has shifted private equity focus away from just large-scale managers to include mid-market, growth, and venture—segments viewed as “undercapitalized.” 33% of CalPERS-backed managers now qualify as “diverse,” compared to an industry average of 21% across eight peer public pension funds. 
    • SB 54, California’s Venture Capital Diversity Disclosure Law, which will require VC firms operating in California to disclose demographic data on funded founders to boost transparency.
    • SB 826, California’s first-in-the-nation “women on boards” law, although later challenged by the courts, this law helped boost the seats women held on California’s public company board to 30% — up from 15.5% in 2018.  
    • AB 2927, requires all high school students to take a personal finance course. It helps to ensure the next generation—especially girls from underserved communities—have the knowledge to build financial independence early.

    Through the First Partner’s work with California for all Women and her nonprofit the California Partners Project, she has championed efforts to help increase representation of women and close the gender wealth gap–including a board playbook series, co-created with Stanford’s VMware Women’s Leadership Innovation Lab and Stanford Graduate School of Business, to help companies boost talent and representation on boards. 

    “Women are the innovators and entrepreneurs that are helping solve societal issues yet remain significantly underrepresented in getting the capital they need to turn ideas into reality,” said Marcie Frost, CEO of CalPERS. Data shows businesses that are majority-owned by women only get 2-percent of venture capital investments in the United States. This gap highlights persistent systemic barriers and biases within the venture capital ecosystem, underscoring the need for more inclusive investment practices and equitable access to funding opportunities that align with our fiduciary duty and requirement to diversify assets.”

    Marcie Frost, CEO of CalPERS

    Research shows that women and diverse leaders deliver outsized results: 

    • Research from Boston Consulting Group indicates that women-owned startups can generate significantly more revenue per dollar invested, potentially leading to greater wealth for investors. 
    • Venture capital firms with more women investing partners outperform their peers—seeing 1.5% higher fund returns and nearly 10% more profitable exits. 

    First Partner, Press releases

    Recent news

    May 19, 2025

    News What you need to know: California’s battery storage capacity now exceeds 15,700 megawatts, an unprecedented milestone that reflects the Newsom administration’s continued leadership in building the grid of the future. SACRAMENTO — California continues to rapidly…

    May 16, 2025

    News What you need to know: The state is investing almost $1.7 billion for improvements to California’s highway system, including $86.5 million for improvements to infrastructure damaged during the Los Angeles firestorms earlier this year. SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin…

    May 16, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom kicked off #WorldTradeMonth with a round of key international interviews with journalists from major broadcast networks in Canada, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, and the United Kingdom. In the interviews, Governor Newsom addressed…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Since Governor Newsom took office, California’s battery storage has increased 1,944% – and just achieved a major milestone

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 19, 2025

    What you need to know: California’s battery storage capacity now exceeds 15,700 megawatts, an unprecedented milestone that reflects the Newsom administration’s continued leadership in building the grid of the future.

    SACRAMENTO — California continues to rapidly expand its energy storage statewide, adding 2,300 megawatts (MW) since last September for a total of 15,763 MW of battery storage capacity, according to new data released today. This reflects a 1,944% increase since the start of the Newsom Administration – up from 770 MW in 2019. 

    Energy storage – particularly battery storage – has become a key resource in the state’s energy transformation. Battery systems capture power produced by wind and solar resources and discharge the energy back to the electric grid during times of peak demand – creating a safer and more reliable power grid.

    California is adding battery storage at a pace never seen before as we continue our work to build the grid of the future. The key to a cleaner, more reliable power grid is batteries – and no other jurisdiction on the planet, save China, comes even close to our rapid deployment.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    On a smaller scale, tens of thousands of residential and commercial battery systems provide backup power and flexibility to homes, schools and businesses. They make up about 2,500 MW of total storage statewide, or about 16% of the battery storage total.

    The state projects that more than 48,000 MW of battery storage and 4,000 MW of long duration storage will be needed by 2045. Long duration energy storage systems are especially important, as they can provide up to 10 hours of power–more than double the four hours of power provided by traditional battery storage technology. 

    As California builds out the grid of the future, it is focusing efforts on proactively addressing safety for utility-scale battery storage systems through comprehensive state level collaborations and regulatory updates. Building battery storage is a critical part of the Governor’s build more, faster agenda delivering infrastructure upgrades and creating thousands of jobs across the state. 

    Governor Gavin Newsom recently convened a state-level collaborative to find opportunities to improve safety as the technology continues to evolve. Last month, the California Public Utilities Commission implemented new safety standards for battery storage facilities. Other key initiatives include an update to the California Fire Code happening this year, expected to include enhanced BESS safety standards. 

    California’s climate leadership

    Pollution is down and the economy is up. Greenhouse gas emissions in California are down 20% since 2000 – even as the state’s GDP increased 78% in that same time period.

    The state continues to set clean energy records. Last year, California ran on 100% clean electricity for the equivalent of 51 days – with the grid running on 100% clean energy for some period three out of every five days. 

    Press releases, Recent news

    Recent news

    May 16, 2025

    News What you need to know: The state is investing almost $1.7 billion for improvements to California’s highway system, including $86.5 million for improvements to infrastructure damaged during the Los Angeles firestorms earlier this year. SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin…

    May 16, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom kicked off #WorldTradeMonth with a round of key international interviews with journalists from major broadcast networks in Canada, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, and the United Kingdom. In the interviews, Governor Newsom addressed…

    May 15, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring May 2025 as “Small Business Month.”The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONCalifornia’s more than 4.2 million small businesses – the most of any…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Appeal to trace a man who was last seen in a hospital in east London

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Officers are appealing for the public’s help trace a man who was last seen at a hospital In Leytonstone.

    Aleks Abutayun, 29, was last seen at 17:00hrs on Monday, 19 May after he left Whipps Cross Hospital in Leytonstone.

    He is described as a white man and 5ft8 tall. He is of a medium build, with short dark hair and a beard.

    Aleks was last known to be wearing a grey cardigan, green trainers and brown chino trousers. He has links to Hollow Ponds, Epping Forest and Waltham Forest.

    Met officers are becoming increasingly concerned for Aleks’ wellbeing and if seen, we are advising people to call police rather than approach him.

    Please call 999 immediately if you see Aleks, quoting CAD5635/19MAY.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Russia initiates WTO dispute regarding EU’s carbon border adjustment and emissions trading

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Russia initiates WTO dispute regarding EU’s carbon border adjustment and emissions trading

    Russia refers to Regulation (EU) 2023/956, establishing the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, as well as delegated and implementing acts and other related documents, and to Directive 2003/87/EC establishing a scheme for greenhouse gas emissions allowances trading within the EU. Russia claims the measures  are inconsistent with the EU’s obligations under various provisions of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) 1994; the Agreement on Import Licensing Procedures; the Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures; and the Protocols of WTO Accession of Bulgaria, Croatia, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.
    Further information is available in document WT/DS639/1.
    What is a request for consultations?
    The request for consultations formally initiates a dispute in the WTO. Consultations give the parties an opportunity to discuss the matter and to find a satisfactory solution without proceeding further with litigation. After 60 days, if consultations have failed to resolve the dispute, the complainant may request adjudication by a panel.

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    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Georgia formally accepts Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Georgia formally accepts Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies

    DG Okonjo-Iweala said: “Georgia’s ratification brings us closer to making this Agreement a powerful demonstration of how multilateral cooperation can advance the global common good. Together, we can magnify our impact to improve ocean sustainability – for people and for our shared planet. Only 13 more acceptances to go!”
    Deputy Minister Arveladze said: “Georgia has always been a top performer in implementing WTO commitments in full. By depositing its instrument of acceptance of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies today, Georgia is clearly demonstrating its firm support for the rules-based multilateral trading system. This step reaffirms our continued engagement in international efforts to promote the sustainable and responsible use of marine resources. We commend the collective efforts by WTO members in concluding this Agreement and look forward to continued cooperation toward its entry into force and effective implementation.”
    For the Agreement to come into force, formal acceptances from two-thirds of WTO members are required – representing 111 members. The list of current instruments of acceptance deposited with the WTO is available here.
    At the WTO’s 12th Ministerial Conference (MC12) held in Geneva in June 2022, ministers adopted by consensus the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, setting new, binding, multilateral rules to curb harmful fisheries subsidies. The Agreement prohibits subsidies for illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, for fishing overfished stocks, and for fishing on the unregulated high seas. Ministers also recognized the needs of developing economies and least-developed countries by establishing a fund to provide technical assistance and capacity-building to help governments which have formally accepted the Agreement implement the new obligations.
    WTO members also agreed at MC12 to continue negotiating on remaining fisheries subsidies issues. The objective is to find consensus on additional provisions to further strengthen the disciplines of the Agreement.
    Information for members on how to accept the Protocol of Amendment can be found here.

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    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Russia: ‘No authoritarian assault will silence our fight for justice’ – Amnesty responds to Kremlin ban

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Russian authorities have declared Amnesty International an ‘undesirable organisation’

    The decision comes three years after Russian authorities blocked access to Amnesty’s websites and shut down its Moscow office

    ‘You must be doing something right if the Kremlin bans you’ says Amnesty International’s Secretary General Agnès Callamard

    Reacting to the news that the Russian authorities have declared Amnesty International an “undesirable organisation” thereby criminalising its activities and any association with the organisation in Russia, Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General, said: 

    “This decision is part of the Russian government’s broader effort to silence dissent and isolate civil society. In a country where scores of activists and dissidents have been imprisoned, killed or exiled, where independent media has been smeared, blocked or forced to self-censor, and where civil society organisations have been outlawed or liquidated, you must be doing something right if the Kremlin bans you.  

    “The authorities are deeply mistaken if they believe that by labelling Amnesty “undesirable” we will stop our work documenting and exposing human rights violations – quite the opposite. We will not give in to the threats and will continue undeterred to work to ensure that people in Russia are able to enjoy their human rights without discrimination. We will keep documenting and speaking worldwide about the war crimes committed in Ukraine by Russia. We will redouble our efforts to expose Russia’s egregious human rights violations both at home and abroad.  

    “We will never stop fighting for the release of prisoners of conscience detained for standing up for human rights or for the repeal of repressive laws that prevent people in Russia from speaking up against injustice. We will continue to work relentlessly to ensure that all those who are responsible for committing grave human rights violations, whether in Russia, Ukraine, or elsewhere, face justice. Put simply, no authoritarian assault will silence our fight for justice. Amnesty will never give up or back down in its fight for upholding human rights in Russia and beyond.” 

    Amnesty ban in Russia

    On 19 May, the Russian Prosecutor General’s Office declared Amnesty International an “undesirable organisation” under repressive 2015 Russian legislation which allows the authorities to ban arbitrarily any foreign organisation and criminalise its activities in Russia. The announcement accused Amnesty of promoting “Russophobic projects” and indicated that it was prompted by Amnesty’s work on freedom of expression and association in Russia, and its documentation and exposition of crimes under international law committed by Russian forces in Ukraine. The decision is based on a Russian law which in itself violates international law, and the language of the decision goes against facts accusing Amnesty of activities which, within its statutory documents and policies, it is prevented from undertaking.

    The designation comes three years after the Russian authorities blocked access to Amnesty’s websites in Russia and de-registered – effectively closed down – the organisation’s office in Moscow. The designation puts at risk of prosecution in Russia partner organisations and individual supporters, journalists, other persons who now work with, or are seen by the authorities as supporting or promoting the organisation.

    Under Russian legislation, participation in the activities of an “undesirable organiation” is punishable by law. First-time “offenses” may result in administrative fines of up to 15,000 rubles (around US$185). Repeated violations as well as funding or managing such organisations carry criminal liability and can lead to prison sentences of up to six years. The law has previously been applied to the distribution or reposting of any materials from the designated organisation, including publications and hyperlinks predating its designation as “undesirable”.

    This designation places Amnesty among dozens of independent NGOs and media outlets that have been targeted in recent years as part of a sweeping campaign to suppress dissent and dismantle civil society in Russia and prevent international watchdogs and partners from providing support or showing solidarity with them. These moves are the backbone of a pattern whereby the Russian authorities are using authoritarian practices to silence voices, undermine accountability and entrench power.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Russia: Amnesty International declared “undesirable organization” amid escalating crackdown on dissent  

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Reacting to the news that the Russian authorities have declared Amnesty International an “undesirable organization” thereby criminalizing its activities and any association with the organization in Russia, Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General, said: 

    “This decision is part of the Russian government’s broader effort to silence dissent and isolate civil society. In a country where scores of activists and dissidents have been imprisoned, killed or exiled, where independent media has been smeared, blocked or forced to self-censor, and where civil society organizations have been outlawed or liquidated, you must be doing something right if the Kremlin bans you.  

    “The authorities are deeply mistaken if they believe that by labelling our organization “undesirable” we will stop our work documenting and exposing human rights violations – quite the opposite. We will not give in to the threats and will continue undeterred to work to ensure that people in Russia are able to enjoy their human rights without discrimination. We will keep documenting and speaking worldwide about the war crimes committed in Ukraine by Russia. We will redouble our efforts to expose Russia’s egregious human rights violations both at home and abroad.  

    The authorities are deeply mistaken if they believe that by labelling our organization “undesirable” we will stop our work documenting and exposing human rights violations – quite the opposite

    Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General

    “We will never stop fighting for the release of prisoners of conscience detained for standing up for human rights or for the repeal of repressive laws that prevent people in Russia from speaking up against injustice. We will continue to work relentlessly to ensure that all those who are responsible for committing grave human rights violations, whether in Russia, Ukraine, or elsewhere, face justice. Put simply, no authoritarian assault will silence our fight for justice. Amnesty will never give up or back down in its fight for upholding human rights in Russia and beyond.” 

    Background 

    On 19 May 2025, the Russian Prosecutor General’s Office declared Amnesty International an “undesirable organization” under repressive 2015 Russian legislation which allows the authorities to ban arbitrarily any foreign organization and criminalize its activities in Russia. The announcement accused Amnesty International of promoting “Russophobic projects” and indicated that it was prompted by the organization’s work on freedom of expression and association in Russia, and its documentation and exposition of crimes under international law committed by Russian forces in Ukraine. The decision is based on a Russian law which in itself violates international law, and the language of the decision goes against facts accusing Amnesty International of activities which, within its statutory documents and policies, it is prevented from undertaking.

    The designation comes three years after the Russian authorities blocked access to Amnesty International’s websites in Russia and de-registered – effectively closed down – the organization’s office in Moscow. The designation puts at risk of prosecution in Russia partner organizations and individual supporters, journalists, other persons who now work with, or are seen by the authorities as supporting or promoting, the organization.

    Under Russian legislation, participation in the activities of an “undesirable organization” is punishable by law. First-time “offenses” may result in administrative fines of up to 15,000 rubles (around US$185). Repeated violations as well as funding or managing such organizations carry criminal liability and can lead to prison sentences of up to six years. The law has previously been applied to the distribution or reposting of any materials from the designated organization, including publications and hyperlinks predating its designation as “undesirable”.

    This designation places Amnesty International among dozens of independent NGOs and media outlets that have been targeted in recent years as part of a sweeping campaign to suppress dissent and dismantle civil society in Russia and prevent international watchdogs and partners from providing support or showing solidarity with them. These moves are the backbone of a pattern whereby the Russian authorities are using authoritarian practices to silence voices, undermine accountability and entrench power.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI: Nimanode Launches First AI Agent Platform on XRP Ledger, Powered by NMA Token Launch

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LEEDS, United Kingdom, May 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The future of AI automation in Web3 has officially arrived with the launch of Nimanode, the first AI agent platform built on the XRP Ledger. Designed to empower creators, DAOs, and enterprises, Nimanode introduces a zero-code builder and AI agent marketplace—marking a major milestone in the evolution of decentralized automation. Coinciding with the platform’s debut is the presale of the $NMA token, unlocking early access to the next wave of intelligent, on-chain agents that generate smart contracts, optimize DeFi strategies, and monitor compliance—all on one of the world’s fastest and most secure blockchains.

    The XRP ecosystem is advancing rapidly, as the next wave of Web3 innovation keeps emerging on the faster, smarter, and more efficient blockchain.

    At the core of this evolution is Nimanode, pioneering the first AI agent platform built on the XRP Ledger, empowering creators to build and deploy autonomous AI agents that automate smart contracts, and unlock new possibilities in decentralized tech.

    With a zero-code builder and a powerful AI agent marketplace, Nimanode is redefining how Web3 projects are launched, scaled, and automated.

    As enterprises explore tokenized assets, DeFi infrastructure, and decentralized identity, one thing becomes clear, work done is still manual. Nimanode, is laying the groundwork for a decentralized workforce made of AI agents, each capable of executing smart contracts, optimizing DeFi strategies, and monitoring on-chain compliance. Best news, they are doing it on one of the fastest and secure blockchains available, XRP Ledger.

    New Kind of On-Chain Intelligence

    Nimanode agents aren’t just simple bots. These agents think, analyze, and execute on-chain tasks ranging from:

    Smart Contract Generation: AI that turns plain-English prompts into executable XRPL Hook contracts.

    DeFi Yield Optimization: Self-directed agents that shift capital between pools to maximize APY.

    Risk Monitoring: Agents that scan wallets and contracts to flag malicious activity in real-time.

    Web3 Customer Support: Deployable support agents that run 24/7 across DAO forums, dApps, and more.
    RWA Compliance: Regulatory agents that keep tokenized assets aligned with local frameworks.

    And all of it can be created from a zero-code interface, allowing creators, DAOs, or institutions to launch an entire automated ecosystem in minutes.

    An Ecosystem on XRP Powered By $NMA

    The $NMA token powers every layer of the Nimanode ecosystem. With a fixed supply of 200 million, and only 45% allocated to the presale, early participants gain exposure not just to a token but to a new kind of economic engine capped at 90 million $NMA. The utility of $NMA is infused into every layer of their ecosystem to ensure its longevity and use case. Included but not limited to:

    Deploying Agents – Lower deployment costs just by holding $NMA
    Agent Marketplace – Use $NMA to access discounts on purchasing AI agents
    Staking & Yield – Stake $NMA to earn passive rewards
    Governance – Voting on ecosystem proposals and upgrades

    Final Word: Don’t Miss Out on Nimanode

    As Web3 scales into real-world systems, the demand for automation, efficiency, and intelligence grows. The unique proposition of AI and XRPL has seen a rapidly escalating interest from the web3 community, evidenced by surging members and buzz being created on social media and their pages.

    Though the AI narrative in crypto has largely revolved around generative content and algorithmic trading, Nimanode expands that vision by building a full-blown infrastructure for AI agents that live, think, and work on-chain.

    Be part of the future Nimanode is building

    Website: https://nimanode.com
    Twitter/X: https://nimanode.com
    Telegram: https://t.me/nimanodeAI
    Documentation: https://docs.nimanode.com

    Contact:
    Nick Lambert
    contact@nimanode.com

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by Nimanode. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/31f6f964-8a68-4b16-9d3c-9d17a4d5a691

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Licensed Crypto Mining Platforms Like F2Hash Redefine Global Landscape Amid Bitcoin Boom

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, NY, May 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    In a landmark development for the digital asset industry, licensed and regulated cloud mining platforms are emerging as the backbone of Bitcoin’s post-$100K resurgence. Spearheaded by industry leaders such as F2Hash, the market is witnessing a profound shift from fragmented, independent miners to scalable, compliant, and sustainable infrastructure. As profitability metrics soar and institutional capital floods in, the global mining map is being redrawn—fast.

    F2Hash, among the top-tier mining entities, has become a symbol of this evolution. Founded in 2022 and headquartered in Nicosia, Cyprus, F2Hash operates with a licensed framework under CySEC and FINMA banking oversight. The platform now controls 12.5 EH/s of hash rate and achieves a remarkable 92% use of renewable energy, thanks to its integration with the EU’s Green Mining Initiative.

    “Mining is no longer a guessing game. Our mission is to bring structure, trust, and sustainability to the process,” said Konstantin Vassilev, CEO of F2Hash. “We’re not just adapting to this new era—we’re helping define it. With institutional confidence rising, it’s the platforms that offer transparency, compliance, and energy efficiency that will lead the charge.”

    Cloud mining in 2025 looks fundamentally different from years past. Instead of managing physical machines, users opt for mining contracts that leverage large-scale, high-efficiency facilities. ASIC hardware now achieves performance benchmarks upwards of 450 TH/s, enhanced by liquid cooling technologies that minimise energy loss. Profitability has jumped sharply, with licensed cloud contracts offering 18–24% ROI annually, outpacing home mining setups burdened by higher energy costs.

    According to recent industry data, licensed platforms now command over 65% of global hash power. This includes major players such as:

    • BitFuFu, a Bitmain-backed platform that raised $300M in Series C funding and operates under Dubai’s Virtual Asset Mining Law.
    • CryptMain, innovating with a nuclear-backed mining protocol, is leading in European markets.
    • BitDeer, publicly listed on NYSE, is known for its energy-optimised smart routing systems.
    • ECOS, an Armenian-based firm focused on carbon offset contracts and flexible terms.
    • NiceHash, the largest hash marketplace, which now offers institutional DeFi integration.
    • Hashing24, a veteran platform now bridging mining with Bitcoin Layer 2 infrastructure.

    F2Hash stands out not only for its performance but also for its operational model—offering fixed-term mining contracts with daily payouts and real-time monitoring dashboards for users. Its solar-powered data centers and instant withdrawal systems provide the scalability and environmental accountability regulators demand.

    As governments enforce tighter controls on energy usage and financial flows, platforms like F2Hash are well-positioned to benefit. The EU’s upcoming Climate-Neutral Mining Directive is expected to further favor regulated operators using renewable energy and advanced cooling systems, which can boost energy efficiency by 40%.

    Industry experts suggest that by 2026, up to 75% of global mining could be concentrated in regulated cloud platforms. Meanwhile, traditional financial institutions continue to enter the space, with mining-backed ETFs, structured investment products, and derivative instruments gaining traction.

    The crypto mining industry is shedding its anarchic roots and embracing structured, sustainable growth. For companies like F2Hash, this is more than a market shift—it’s the beginning of a new industrial era.

    For more information, visit F2Hash’s website or contact Nikolai Terskikh at support@f2hash.com.

    Media Contact Detailsz
    Contact Name:  Nikolai Terskikh
    Contact Email: info@f2hash.com
    City/Country: Dimofontos, Nicosia, Cyprus
    Website: https://f2hash.com

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risk. There is potential for loss of funds. You should practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China to Continue Contributing to Global Health – Chinese Delegation at 78th WHA Session

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    GENEVA, May 19 (Xinhua) — The Chinese delegation to the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) shared China’s latest achievements in health and contributions to global health governance at a press conference on May 17, reaffirming the country’s commitment to building a community of hygiene and health for all mankind.

    China adheres to the principle of “people and life come first,” Lei Haichao, head of the National Health Commission and head of the Chinese delegation, said on Saturday, announcing the implementation of 18 major programs across the country as part of a comprehensive public health strategy, the “Healthy China” initiative.

    According to the head of the Chinese delegation, the average life expectancy of the Chinese population increased to 79 years in 2024, and maternal and infant mortality rates reached a historical low.

    Lei Haichao stressed that China has been actively participating in global health governance, continuously contributing Chinese wisdom and strength to building a community of health and well-being for all mankind. He said China is firmly committed to multilateralism and firmly supports the central and coordinating role of the World Health Organization (WHO) in global health matters.

    Lei Haichao added that China welcomes WHO’s internal reforms aimed at enhancing efficiency and better serving Member States, and is willing to participate in this process through financial and personnel support.

    Regarding the proposal related to Taiwan, Chen Xu, Permanent Representative of the People’s Republic of China to the UN Office at Geneva and other international organizations in Switzerland, reiterated China’s consistent and clear position at a press conference that Taiwan’s participation in the WHA should be in strict accordance with the one-China principle established by UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 and WHA Resolution 25.1.

    “We firmly oppose any proposals related to Taiwan,” Chen Xu said. He stressed that in line with the one-China principle, the central government has taken appropriate measures for Taiwan’s participation in global health affairs. Over the past year, 12 experts from Taiwan have been approved to participate in WHO technical activities in 11 teams. Chen Xu noted that any technical exchanges involving Taiwan that are in line with the one-China principle can proceed without hindrance. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China is transforming from the world’s factory into a global innovation center – Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui

    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

    Moscow, May 19 /Xinhua/ — China has demonstrated impressive success in scientific research and technological development in recent years, turning from the world’s factory into a global innovation center, said Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui.

    “The prototype of the quantum computer “Zu Chongzhi 3.0” on superconductors set a new world record for quantum advantage performance. In the global AI industry, the DeepSeek model proved that size does not always matter, refuting the principle of “the bigger, the better.” Yushu Technology has become a leader in the production of four-legged robots, occupying about 70 percent of the world market. All these achievements testify to the high level of technological development of China,” the ambassador noted in an article published on Monday in the Russian newspaper “Trud.”

    “There are 26 scientific and technological innovation clusters in the country, which are among the top 100 in the world, confirming China’s status as one of the economies with the fastest growth in innovation activity over the past decade,” the diplomat writes, citing data on funding for research and development (R&D). In this indicator, China has moved into second place in the world: its share of R&D expenditure has reached 2.68 percent of GDP. China occupies a leading position both in the number of international patent applications filed through the PCT (Patent Cooperation Treaty) procedure and in the number of applications to the Hague System for the Registration of Industrial Designs.

    “In the field of strategic high technologies, significant results have been achieved: the Chang’e-6 mission collected samples from the far side of the Moon for the first time in the world; the Earth’s Crust 1 drilling rig drilled a hole 10,000 meters deep; the Fendouzhe manned deep-sea vehicle dived more than 10,000 meters underwater; and the world’s first fourth-generation nuclear power plant was put into operation,” the ambassador lists.

    According to him, China has formed a “comprehensive ecosystem of the AI industry, covering all levels: from basic technologies and infrastructure to models and application solutions.” In the field of AI, there are more than 400 “small giants” – fast-growing innovative companies, which is about 10 percent of their total number in the world.

    “The success of companies like Huawei, BYD and DeepSeek proves that China is transforming from the world’s factory into a global innovation hub,” Zhang Hanhui emphasizes in his article. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Open cooperation and joint use of scientific and technological achievements benefit all mankind – Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui

    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

    Moscow, May 19 (Xinhua) — China is confidently advancing scientific and technological progress through open cooperation, promoting common development by sharing innovative achievements. These activities are aimed at stimulating global sustainable development and modernization of the world, according to an article by Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui, which was published in the Russian newspaper Trud on Monday.

    “The Belt and Road Initiative is implementing a program to support scientific and technological innovation. More than 10,000 young scientists and engineers from countries participating in the initiative have completed short-term internships and exchanges of experience in China. More than 70 joint laboratories have been created, as well as 10 international centers for technology transfer for countries in the Arab world, ASEAN, etc. These measures are aimed at strengthening the scientific and technological potential of the above-mentioned countries, as well as stimulating economic growth and improving the standard of living of their populations,” the diplomat writes.

    China is actively promoting its approaches to global governance in science and technology, he notes. A global scientific research fund has been established. Initiatives on global governance of artificial intelligence, global data security, international scientific and technological cooperation, and international cooperation in open science have been consistently presented, which are designed to establish the principles of openness, honesty, fairness, and non-discrimination in international scientific and technological innovation.

    “These initiatives propose to solve global problems through cooperation in scientific innovation, promote peaceful development and build a global scientific and technological community,” Zhang Hanhui emphasizes.

    He points out that China, as a responsible power, has taken on the mission of promoting global green transformation. China is actively cooperating with more than 100 countries and regions in green energy projects. “This cooperation is aimed at ensuring the availability of technologies and the creation of a global ecological civilization,” the diplomat writes.

    “Practice shows that the policy of breaking ties and disconnecting chains, as well as erecting barriers, only slows down scientific and technological progress around the world, harms the development of global industry and exacerbates inequality between countries. Openness, inclusiveness, mutual benefit and sharing of achievements are the key principles of successful international cooperation in science and technology. Real scientific and technological innovations sooner or later overcome regional and state borders, becoming a beacon illuminating the path to the progress of human civilization,” the Chinese Ambassador to the Russian Federation notes in his article. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 19 May 2025 News release Papua New Guinea eliminates trachoma as a public health problem

    Source: World Health Organisation

    In a landmark public health achievement, Papua New Guinea (PNG) has been validated by the World Health Organization (WHO) for eliminating trachoma as a public health problem. Trachoma, a neglected tropical disease (NTD) and the world’s leading infectious cause of blindness, no longer poses a public health threat in the country.

    “I congratulate the government and people of Papua New Guinea on this incredible achievement, said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus,” WHO Director-General. “This success demonstrates what can be achieved when science and sustained partnerships come together to serve the health and dignity of communities.”

    Official recognition was made during the 78th World Health Assembly held in Geneva, Switzerland, following a comprehensive review of PNG’s elimination dossier.

    Trachoma is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis and spreads through personal contact, flies that have been in contact with eye or nose discharge and contact with infected surfaces. Repeated infections can lead to scarring, in-turning of the eyelids, and ultimately irreversible blindness. Globally, the disease remains endemic in many vulnerable communities where access to clean water and sanitation is limited.

    Papua New Guinea’s success story

    “Papua New Guinea’s achievement is an example of medical science in action,” said Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific. “It reflects a deep understanding of local epidemiology and a commitment to using the right interventions for the right reasons. We commend the National Department of Health, health workers, researchers, and partners for their persistent efforts.”

    In PNG, population-based surveys conducted in 2015 found signs of active trachoma in children but very low levels of Chlamydia trachomatis, as well as negligible levels of trachomatous trichiasis – the advanced stage of the disease that causes blindness. A follow-up ancillary survey in 2020 further confirmed that affected children were not progressing to more severe disease. This epidemiological pattern, shared with other Melanesian countries, provided the foundation for PNG’s successful claim to have eliminated trachoma as a public health problem.

    Unlike many other countries where trachoma elimination has required surgery campaigns, antibiotic mass drug administration and targeted improvements in access to water, sanitation and hygiene, PNG’s success was driven by robust disease surveillance. The country’s National Department of Health, with the support from partners, oversaw a series of rapid assessments, prevalence surveys, and community-level investigations. These efforts confirmed that community-wide interventions for trachoma were not warranted.

    PNG’s trachoma elimination programme received technical and financial support from WHO, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Fred Hollows Foundation, the Brien Holden Vision Institute, Sightsavers, PNG Eye Care, and several other organizations. The programme also benefited from scientific collaborations with the Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, the Global Trachoma Mapping Project, Collaborative Vision, Tropical Data and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, among many others.

    Since 2016, 13 countries in the Western Pacific Region have been validated by WHO for eliminating at least one NTD. Trachoma elimination is part of broader progress on NTDs in PNG and the Western Pacific Region.

    Trachoma is the first neglected tropical disease eliminated in PNG. Following this successful validation, globally, 56 countries have eliminated at least one NTD, including 22 others that have eliminated trachoma as a public health problem. PNG joining these groups enhances our collective momentum toward the targets of the NTD road map 2021–2030.

    WHO continues to support countries in their efforts to eliminate trachoma and other NTDs, ensuring healthier lives for all, particularly the most disadvantaged.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary-General/Iraq, Gaza, Ukraine & other topics – Daily Press Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    ———————————
    Highlights:

    Secretary-General / Iraq
    Gaza
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Ukraine
    Libya
    78th World Health Assembly
    World Fair Play Day

    ———————————
    SECRETARY-GENERAL /IRAQ
    The Secretary-General landed back in New York a few hours ago. He will be in Headquarters at about 3 o’clock for the resumed session with the General Assembly on the UN80 initiative and that will be webcast.
    In Iraq, where he attended and addressed the Summit of the League of Arab States. In the remarks that he delivered, the Secretary-General reiterated our constant calls for an urgently needed permanent ceasefire in Gaza, the unconditional release of all hostages and the need for free flow of humanitarian aid. “Only a two-State solution can deliver sustainable peace,” he said.
    He also spoke about the situation in other parts of the region, including Syria, Yemen, Lebanon, Sudan and Somalia. And underscored the vital partnership between the United Nations and the League of Arab States. 
    On the margins of the Summit, he held a trilateral meeting with the Chairman of the African Union, Mahamoud Youssouf, and the Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, Mr. Abu Al-Ghait.
    Their meeting focused on Sudan, and how to better cooperate and maintain a regular contact to better coordinate all initiatives in relation to peace in Sudan.
    He also met with the Prime Minister of Jordan, Jafar Hassan, where they discussed developments in the region, and obviously what is going on in Gaza. Separately, he discussed the situation in Lebanon with Prime Minister Nawaf Salam of Lebanon.
    On Sunday, he spoke with the Prime Minister of Iraq [Mohammed] Shia’ Al Sudani. The Secretary-General during those talks reaffirmed that we remain fully committed to continuing to support the Government and people of Iraq following the planned departure of the UN Assistance Mission in Iraq [UNAMI]. As you know, the mission’s mandate will not be extended beyond 31 December of this year.
    The Secretary-General also addressed the UN staff in Baghdad to express his thanks to them. He laid a wreath at a memorial in the UN Compound in honour of 22 of our colleagues, who as you know, were brutally killed during the terrorist attack at the Canal Hotel on August 19 2003. Mr. Guterres said that “this memorial is as a clear reminder of the vital work that the United Nations does around the world — and the dangers our people face in carrying out that work.”

    GAZA
    The Secretary-General is alarmed by the intensification of Israeli air strikes and ground operations in the Gaza Strip, which have resulted in the killing of hundreds of Palestinian civilians in recent days, including many women and children, and, of course, large-scale evacuation orders.
    The Secretary-General calls for the rapid, safe, and unimpeded delivery of humanitarian assistance at scale directly to civilians, in order to avert famine, alleviate widespread suffering, and prevent further loss of life.
    The Secretary-General continues to call for a permanent ceasefire and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and welcomes the ongoing efforts by the mediators to reach a deal in Gaza. He has repeatedly warned that the continued violence and the destruction will only compound civilian suffering and heighten the risk of a broader regional conflict.
    The Secretary-General reiterates that civilians must be respected and they must be protected at all times, and that all parties must strictly adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian law.
    The Secretary-General firmly rejects any forced displacement of the Palestinian population.

    Full Highlights:
    https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=19%20May%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I0Ba_bDpvvo

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Planned antimony mining in Chios and compliance with European environmental legislation – E-001718/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001718/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Nikolaos Anadiotis (NI)

    Recent publications report that a plan to mine antimony, a strategically important metal used mainly in the defence, electronics and renewable energy industries[1] and included on the European Union’s list of critical raw materials, is being promoted in Chios, which, it should be noted, is located near protected areas and areas of high ecological and cultural value.

    The prospect of mining activity has provoked serious reactions among most of the local community.[2] Citizens, groups and environmental organisations are expressing strong concerns regarding the possible impacts on the natural environment, biodiversity, water resources and the local economy, which is mainly based on tourism and agricultural production. The EU, however, sets as its main priorities sustainable development, environmental protection and ensuring the participation of local communities in making decisions determining their future.

    In view of the above:

    How is it being ensured that the views of local communities are taken into account and that the principle of sustainable development is respected, especially in island and tourist areas such as Chios?

    Submitted: 29.4.2025

    • [1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=FR2u1lipiyc
    • [2] https://diafaneia.eu/marinakis/ και https://diafaneia.eu/oxi-eksorykseis-antimoniou-xio/
    Last updated: 19 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Violation of European law on political party financing in Greece – E-001784/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001784/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Nikolas Farantouris (The Left)

    International[1] and Greek[2] publications reveal that the ruling New Democracy party has used the company Blue Skies as a vehicle for financing party executives, the production of propaganda content and targeted defamation,[3] with funding from public bodies (in fact financed by European funds). This constitutes a violation of European rules and, in particular, Article 2 TEU on the rule of law, democracy and equality, Article 20 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1141/2014 on the registration, monitoring and funding of European political parties, which prohibits indirect or undeclared funding of parties by third parties, and the recommendations of GRECO and the OECD on transparency and effective control of political funding at national level.

    Furthermore, the Commission’s report on the rule of law in Greece (2024)[4] identifies delays in the submission of financial data by parties, insufficient disclosure of data and a lack of transparency in political financing, as well as a lack of publication of statistics, breach of commitments and an overall ‘weak oversight mechanism’.

    On the basis of the above:

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to open an investigation into the above allegations of circumvention of Article 20 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1141/2014 on the control of political financing involving Government officials?
    • 2.Does the Commission intend to request explanations from the Greek authorities on the ‘State – Blue Skies – Party’ triangular financing relationship?
    • 3.What measures could the Commission recommend to ensure a level playing field for political competition?

    Submitted: 2.5.2025

    • [1] https://www.politico.eu/article/financing-scandal-rocks-greece-ruling-party-new-democracy/
    • [2] https://insidestory.gr/article/poia-einai-i-etaireia-poy-stegazei-kentrika-prosopa-toy-mihanismoy-propagandas-tis-nd
    • [3] https://www.documentonews.gr/article/skandalo-xrimatodotisis-prokalei-trigmoys-sti-nd-politico-gia-omada-alitheias-kai-blue-skies/
    • [4] https://commission.europa.eu/publications/2024-rule-law-report-communication-and-country-chapters_en
    Last updated: 19 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Lysine 1 – P-001590/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-001590/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Asger Christensen (Renew)

    • 1.Does the Commission agree that lysine is a feed additive that is necessary for livestock health and growth, as well as for reducing soya consumption, nitrogen emissions and, potentially, consumption of antibiotics?
    • 2.Does the Commission similarly agree that no additional costs should be imposed on European livestock production and that access to lysine at competitive prices is vital?
    • 3.EU self-sufficiency in lysine is low: only one firm produces about 20% of what is consumed. Accordingly, can the Commission say whether anti-dumping duties on lysine from China have resulted in higher production costs in the EU, alternative markets being unable to meet demand?

    Submitted: 22.4.2025

    Last updated: 19 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) – consequences of pulling funding from some UN organisations – E-001635/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001635/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Benoit Cassart (Renew)

    On 3 February 2025, President Donald Trump withdrew the United States from some UN organisations and pulled funding from a number of them, including the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). As a result, the UNHCR is facing a funding deficit of several hundred million dollars, around 40 % of its annual budget. The High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, made an urgent plea for other donors to plug the shortfall.

    • 1.What can the Commission do to step up its support for the UNHCR in 2025 to compensate for the United States suspending its funding? What would the geopolitical, diplomatic and humanitarian ramifications be if the EU were to shift its position in that way?
    • 2.Heading 4, migration and border management, is one of the multiannual financial framework (MFF) priority policy areas and had a budget of EUR 22 671 million (in 2018 prices) for the period 2021-2027. Could the 2028-2034 MFF provide for a budget line for the UNHCR under that heading?

    Submitted: 23.4.2025

    Last updated: 19 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Portugal: EIB provides €300 million loan to support the rehabilitation of state-funded schools

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • The €300 million loan will help to modernise state-funded primary and secondary schools across the country.
    • This investment covers projects to improve safety, accessibility and energy efficiency in school buildings.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) has signed a €300 million financing agreement with Portugal to co-finance the School Restoration and Rehabilitation Programme, which aims to modernise hundreds of state-funded schools across the country. The agreement was signed by the Portuguese Treasury and Public Debt Management Agency (IGCP).

    This is one of the most significant operations for public investment in education in recent decades, and will contribute directly to the European priorities of social infrastructure, cohesion, climate action and sustainable development.

    Thanks to these funds, at least 499 schools will be able to apply for assistance to undertake works to upgrade and expand their buildings, or to construct new schools, with a view to providing safer, more modern, more inclusive and more energy-efficient learning environments.

    Modernising schools will help to significantly improve teaching and learning environments, while also helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by improving energy efficiency in school buildings.

    The project contributes to the EIB’s objectives with regards to climate action, environmental sustainability, and economic and social cohesion. This programme will also receive additional support through national and European funding instruments.

    Background information

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, the EIB finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, high-impact investments outside the European Union and the capital markets union.

    The EIB Group, which includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed almost €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.

    All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.

    Fostering market integration and mobilising investment, the Group supported a record of over €100 billion in new investment for Europe’s energy security in 2024 and mobilised €110 billion in growth capital for startups, scale-ups and European pioneers. Around half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average.

    High-quality, up-to-date photos of our headquarters for media use are available here.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Outcome of the European Political Community meeting in Tirana, Albania, on 16 May 2025 – 19-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    On 16 May 2025, over 40 European leaders gathered for the sixth meeting of the European Political Community (EPC). This was the first EPC meeting to take place in the Western Balkans. The evening before the EPC, there was an informal dinner between EU and Western Balkan leaders, which had been preceded by a week of visits by the European Council President to the Western Balkan capitals. The summit comes days after parliamentary elections in Albania (held on 11 May), which incumbent Prime Minister Edi Rama won on a pro-EU mandate. The overarching theme for the summit was ‘New Europe in a new world: Unity – cooperation – joint action’, with a strong emphasis on support for Ukraine, as well as three roundtable topics: security and democratic resilience; competitiveness; and mobility, migration and youth. Similarly to previous EPC meetings, no concrete deliverables or joint statements on behalf of all the leaders were published at the end of the summit. However, a coordinating team for the EPC was announced during Rama’s press conference with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, as leader of the country which will be hosting the next EPC meeting. The coordinating team will operate under the office of the European Council President.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – World Bee Day 2025: We all depend on pollinators – 19-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Pollination is a fundamental process for the survival of our ecosystems and ultimately, of our planet. Nearly 90 % of the world’s wild flowering plant species depend on pollination, along with more than 75 % of the world’s food crops and 35 % of global agricultural land. Without pollination, many interconnected species and processes functioning within the ecosystem would collapse. Not only do pollinators contribute directly to food security, but they are key to conserving biodiversity. There are different pollinator species – such as bees, birds and bats. Most of the over 20 000 species of bees are pollinators, and together with moths, flies, wasps, beetles, and butterflies, they make up the majority of pollinating species. However, close to 35 % of invertebrate pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, face extinction globally. If this trend continues, staple crops like rice, corn and potatoes will increasingly be substituted for nutritious crops, such as fruits, nuts and vegetables, eventually resulting in an imbalanced diet.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement – Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection

    Source: European Parliament

    On 19 May, Members discussed the implementation of the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement. The Rapporteur, Sandro Gozi (Renew), highlighted the importance of strengthening the EU-UK partnership. He also welcomed the UK´s plans to legislate for the indefinite recognition of the CE marking across additional product regulations.

    In the draft opinion, the Rapporteur raises concerns on the UK´s border target operating model and its related problems for EU traders on customs formalities. The draft opinion mentions that regulatory convergence on digital legislation should be promoted, in particular on online platforms and AI. Indeed in this domain, the Rapporteur calls for the establishment of an EU-UK AI forum.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Notification by the Netherlands on lowering the maximum temperature for the transport of animals – E-001917/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001917/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Bert-Jan Ruissen (ECR)

    On 25 February 2025, the Government of the Netherlands notified the Commission of an amendment to its policy guideline on animal transport at high temperatures (notification number 2025/0111/NL). The policy amendment lowers the maximum temperature at which animals may be transported to 30 degrees Celsius. In accordance with the notification procedure under Directive (EU) 2015/1535, the Commission may block this policy rule for a period of 12 to 18 months if harmonisation at EU level in the area concerned is planned or already under way. As the Animal Transport Regulation is currently being revised (2023/0448/COD), that is indeed the case.

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to block the policy rule that has been notified on the ground that revision of the Animal Transport Regulation means that EU harmonisation in the same area is already under way?
    • 2.Does the Commission agree that as a result of this policy amendment, were it to come into force, there would be significant distortion of the EU internal market?
    • 3.Is the Commission prepared to respond to the submissions made by various stakeholders in connection with the notification?

    Submitted: 14.5.2025

    Last updated: 19 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Funding university projects on Islam, Sharia and Islamophobia – P-001946/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-001946/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Silvia Sardone (PfE)

    As many newspapers[1][2] have pointed out, the European Research Council has allocated around EUR 17 million to projects relating to Islam, the Qur’an, Sharia and Islamophobia. Among the various studies on Islamophobia, I would mention ‘Nativism, Islamophobia and Islamism in the Age of Populism’ (Istanbul University), ‘Understanding the Past to Address Present-Day Islamophobia’ (La Sapienza University of Rome), and ‘Avenues to the inclusion of Muslims in democracies’ (Bergen University). I would also like to mention the projects ‘Mapping the evolution of Sharia law, from revealed law to legal system’ (CNRS France), ‘Animals in Islamic philosophy’ (University of Munich), ‘Beyond Sharia law: the role of Sufism in the creation of Islam’ (University of Utrecht), ‘Beyond Sharia law: the role of Sufism in the creation of Islam’ (University of Erfurt). There are numerous studies linked to research initiatives that promote Islam in a positive light and, in a questionable manner, fuel the idea that there is an Islamophobia emergency in Europe.

    Can the Commission therefore say:

    • 1.How does it justify the substantial disbursement of public funds for studies, of questionable utility, all focused on Islam?
    • 2.Have the risks of involvement by entities or associations linked to radical Islamist ideologies been assessed?
    • 3.How are these research projects chosen and on what basis is funding approved?

    Submitted: 14.5.2025

    • [1] https://www.ilgiornale.it/news/europa/ue-altri-17milioni-euro-finanziare-progetti-sullislam-2474447.html.
    • [2] https://www.ansa.it/europa/notizie/rubriche/altrenews/2025/05/05/sardone-legaue-spreca-17-milioni-in-progetti-sullislamofobia_905db26f-b5ba-4c2b-b765-acfc47ea8382.html.
    Last updated: 19 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Public Hearing on empowering creators in the AI age – Committee on Culture and Education

    Source: European Parliament

    AI © AdobeStock

    On 20 Mai, the CULT Committee will hold a public Hearing to explore the specific challenges and implications AI poses to the cultural and creative sectors, as well as to consider possible solutions. Amongst the experts invited, Björn Ulvaeus, founder Member of ABBA.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Hearings – Public Hearing on empowering creators in the AI age – 20-05-2025 – Committee on Culture and Education

    Source: European Parliament

    AI © AdobeStock

    The CULT Committee will hold a public Hearing to explore the specific challenges and implications AI poses to the cultural and creative sectors, as well as to consider possible solutions. Amongst the experts invited, Björn Ulvaeus, founder Member of ABBA.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Direct funding to address drought on the islands – E-001890/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001890/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Georgios Aftias (PPE)

    With its prolonged droughts and reduced rainfall, climate change is exacerbating the problem of water scarcity in Greece and wider south-eastern Europe, significantly affecting agriculture, industry and tourism, especially in areas heavily dependent on tourism and livestock farming. On the Greek islands in particular, the problem is heightened during the tourist season, when the population of these areas doubles.

    According to the European Environment Agency, around 20 % of Europe’s territory and 30 % of its population are affected by water scarcity each year. In southern Europe, up to 70 % of the population experiences water scarcity in the summer months.

    In view of the above, can the Commission answer the following:

    • 1.Will it take immediate action to finance specific measures to solve the problem?
    • 2.Will it finance projects to improve the water supply in order to alleviate the problem?
    • 3.Will it support desalination efforts to cover part of the water demand?

    Submitted: 12.5.2025

    Last updated: 19 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –