Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –
April was a busy month for the Polytechnic University athletes. Teams and individual participants showed outstanding results in competitions of various levels, adding many awards to the university’s collection.
The most striking victory of this month was the performance of the assistant of the Higher School of Sports Education of the Institute of Physical Culture and Sport and Tourism Kirill Prigoda at the Russian Championship in Kazan. The three-time bronze medalist of the World Championship showed the best result in the 200 meters backstroke. His time was 2.08.55.
From April 4 to 6, the Snezhny ski resort hosted the St. Petersburg Student Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding Competition. Polytechnicians came in second in the overall team standings in alpine skiing, Elizaveta Zvyagina showed the best result, Ekaterina Nikiforova took 3rd place. In snowboarding, the university won bronze in the overall team standings, Alexander Maslov won the gold medal.
From April 15 to 17, the SPbPU football team participated in the first round of the XI season of the NSFL (Group A). The Polytechnicians won three victories in three matches:
SPbPU – SevGU (Sevastopol) – 2:1; SPbPU – North Caucasian Federal University (Stavropol) – 3:1; SPbPU – ASU (Astrakhan) – 3:0.
The hockey club “Black Bears – Polytech” once again became the winner of the St. Petersburg championship among students. During the competition, forward Maxim Pastukhov celebrated a double anniversary – five years in the student league and five championship titles. From April 22 to 27, in the all-Russian final, the Polytech team showed a brilliant game, winning in overtime. The best goalkeeper was Bogdan Olikhin, the forward was Yaroslav Abornev, the coach was Roman Mikhalchenko.
On April 20, the Peter the Great SPbPU Kettlebell Lifting Cup competition was held, dedicated to the memory of L. A. Chaplinsky. Arina Gudkova showed the best result in the snatch (12 kg, 110 lifts), Daniil Grinyuk became the leader in the long-cycle kettlebell push (16 kg, 65 lifts). As a result, SPbPU took 1st place in the overall team standings.
Polytechnic University also became the strongest university in the arm wrestling tournament, in which 218 athletes from universities and colleges of St. Petersburg participated. Alexander Kokorkin (55 kg), Artur Vareldzhyan (70 kg) and Anton Gagin (75 kg) took 1st place. Artem Androsov (75 kg), Maksim Cherkasov (65 kg) and Danil Tiranov (85 kg) showed the second result. Kirill Ratlov (over 90 kg) and Sergey Ryzhov (80 kg) won the bronze medal.
From April 14 to 19, the St. Petersburg Junior Boxing Championships for boys and girls aged 19-22 were held. 81 athletes from 16 clubs in St. Petersburg took part in the competition. Our athletes fought brightly and confidently. The winners were Sofia Karyakina, Evgenia Frolova, Sofia Argandeikina, Ksenia Chistyakova and Maria Bolyshkanova. Elizaveta Kadantseva took 2nd place.
This year, the women’s volleyball team debuted at the city championship and showed an excellent result, taking 2nd place among eight teams. The guys came out of the group in third place, but in the final they were only fourth.
The SPbPU women’s basketball team successfully passed the LAST 28 stage of the Student Basketball Association (SBA) Cup — the main student basketball tournament in Russia. Following the games, the team made it to the final eight of the country’s strongest teams.
On April 26 and 27, at the Russian Student Championship in Ultimate — Constructors’ Cup, the men’s and women’s teams of SPbPU showed a brilliant game. They fought in the power pool, which immediately ensured their entry into the quarterfinals.
Despite the defeat from the Nizhny Novgorod Region (4:6), the girls left the group from 2nd place and confidently defeated Yaroslavl State University in the quarterfinals with a score of 11:2. In the semifinals there was a tough match against Moscow State Pedagogical University, but our team snatched victory – 8:6. In the finals there was a rematch with the Nizhny Novgorod Region, this time without a chance for the opponents. With a score of 14:3, Polytechnic University won gold medals. Olesya Mikhailova became the MVP according to the statistics of the entire tournament.
The men’s team also took 2nd place in the group, losing to Moscow State University, but showed real character in the playoffs. In the quarterfinals, the guys beat First Medical (9:2), in the semifinals – Moscow State Pedagogical University (6:5). In the finals, the polytechnics again met the Moscow State University team and this time lost.
On April 18 and 20, the Saint Petersburg Mini-Golf Championship was held. Our athletes took the entire podium in the 2005 and older category. Polina Kukhta came in first, Anastasia Kalashnikova came in second, and Anastasia Maksimova came in third.
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.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, May 12 (Xinhua) — China’s State Council Information Office on Monday released a white paper titled “China’s National Security in the New Era.”
The move aims to provide a comprehensive explanation of China’s innovative concepts, practices and achievements in national security, and promote the international community’s understanding of China’s national security.
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, May 12 (Xinhua) — China’s State Council Information Office on Monday released a white paper titled “China’s National Security in the New Era.”
In the new era, the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core has creatively proposed a holistic approach to national security, established the National Security Commission of the CPC Central Committee, comprehensively deepened the reform of the national security system and mechanism, and accelerated the modernization of the national security system and capacity.
China’s national security in the new era is one that takes the security of the people as its primary goal, political security as the fundamental task, and national interests as the guiding principle.
It is also a security that serves and promotes high-quality development, supports further expansion of high-level opening-up, and operates within the framework of the rule of law. China coordinates its own and common security, opposes generalization of the concept of security, does not use coercion in the security field, and does not accept threats and pressure. China adheres to the principles of independence and self-reliance, and follows the path of national security with Chinese characteristics. -0-
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
LHASA, May 12 (Xinhua) — Chinese engineers on Sunday successfully extracted a 38.1-meter-long concrete core sample from a dam structure of a hydroelectric power plant under construction, setting a new national standard for concrete core sampling at similar arch dams and demonstrating the country’s advanced concrete pouring and quality control capabilities in challenging high-altitude conditions.
The cylindrical sample was extracted from the structure of the Yebatan hydroelectric dam, a project located at the junction of Sichuan Province and the Xizang Autonomous Region in southwest China.
The Yebatan Dam is being built on the upper reaches of the Jinsha River (the name of the Yangtze River in its upper reaches). Situated at its highest altitude of nearly 2,900 meters above sea level, the dam is one of the largest hydropower projects in the country, with a maximum dam height of 217 meters and a total installed capacity of 2.24 million kW.
The lifespan of any dam depends on how well the concrete was poured. The developer of the project reported that a massive concrete core sample, approximately the height of a 12-story building, remained intact when removed, which directly reflects the quality of the concrete pour and demonstrates that in a high-altitude region with a freezing climate, the technology of building an arch dam from concrete is at the leading level in the world. The concrete core, 245 mm in diameter, was drilled vertically through 13 sections of the arch dam, cutting through 12 horizontal joints and 80 layers of poured concrete.
The high altitude location of this project created extreme technical challenges during construction. With temperatures fluctuating from 37.1 degrees Celsius during the day to minus 23.5 degrees Celsius at night, the project team, in collaboration with scientists and experts, successfully extracted concrete core samples using intelligent construction technologies, including an AI temperature control system and a method for heat conservation and thermal insulation for pouring in winter conditions.
Construction of the main structure of the mentioned hydroelectric power station began in September 2018, and its first batch of power units should be put into operation by the end of 2025.
Once operational, the plant, a key part of China’s west-to-east power transmission program, is expected to generate about 10.2 billion kWh of electricity per year.
This will save almost 4 million tons of conventional fuel in coal equivalent and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 7.4 million tons per year.
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, May 12 (Xinhua) — Seven Chinese nurses have been awarded the Florence Nightingale Medal, one of the highest international awards for nurses, for their outstanding contributions to health care.
A total of 35 nurses from 17 countries have received the award this year, with China leading the way. The announcement was made by the Chinese Red Cross Society as the world celebrates International Nurses Day on May 12.
The Chinese laureates include a nurse from the Wuhan AIDS Clinical and Training Centre, a senior volunteer nurse from the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) Red Cross Society and a nurse from the emergency department of the General Hospital of the People’s Liberation Army, the International Committee of the Red Cross said.
The Florence Nightingale Medal is an international award given to outstanding nurses around the world.
Since China first took part in the selection in 1983, 97 Chinese nurses have received the prestigious award. -0-
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
GENEVA, May 12 (Xinhua) — China and the United States on Monday announced a series of tariff adjustment measures aimed at easing trade tensions between the world’s two largest economies.
The decision followed a two-day high-level economic and trade meeting between China and the United States. A joint statement released after the meeting said both sides recognized the importance of bilateral economic and trade relations for themselves and for the global economy. They also stressed the importance of sustainable, long-term and mutually beneficial economic and trade relations. –0–
Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:
PARIS, France, May 12, 2025/APO Group/ —
The Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025 forum in Paris will host a high-level panel discussion on “The Future of Global Energy Partnerships: Seizing Africa’s Untapped Market Opportunities”, sponsored by Energean. Bringing together African energy ministers, CEOs and leading energy executives, the session will explore how shifting global dynamics are reshaping cross-border collaboration and investment strategies in Africa’s energy sector.
The panel will be moderated by NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, and will feature: Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua, Minister of Hydrocarbons, Republic of Congo; Maggy Shino, Petroleum Commissioner, Minister of Mines and Energy, Namibia; Mathios Rigas, CEO, Energean; and Marco Villa, Chief Business Officer, Technip Energies.
IAE 2025 (apo-opa.co/43pj29T) is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 13-14, 2025 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visitwww.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contactsales@energycapitalpower.com.
As international players from the Middle East and BRIC nations expand their global energy footprint, Africa is becoming an increasingly vital partner in advancing shared goals around energy security, industrial growth and sustainable development. Countries like the Republic of Congo, Gabon and Nigeria are at the center of this momentum, offering a diverse mix of upstream and midstream assets, growing domestic demand and a clear push for value-added investment in petrochemicals and infrastructure. This panel will examine how strategic partnerships – whether through equity participation, joint ventures or technical collaboration – are unlocking opportunities across Africa’s oil, gas, power and petrochemical sectors, while also helping to close investment and capacity gaps.
The session will provide firsthand insights from the policymakers and executives driving these initiatives, highlighting how countries are positioning themselves to attract capital and what international players consider bankable, high-value opportunities. From gas monetization strategies in Nigeria to integrated development plans in Congo and downstream expansion in Gabon, the discussion will explore the key factors fueling global investment interest in Africa’s energy landscape.
Thousands of people are expected to join an exciting St Albans City Centre event with free entertainment suitable for all.
The first St Albans Spring Festival will be held on Sunday 18 May and will be a celebration of food, well-being, community spirit and sustainability.
Among the attractions will be live music, arts and crafts, street theatre and dozens of stalls selling takeaway food, drink and other produce. There will also be opportunities to learn, play and create with fun activities.
The event runs from 11am to 5pm, with St Peter’s Street, Chequer Street and High Street closed to traffic to create a safe and vibrant environment.
To ensure accessibility, sighted guides and British Sign Language interpreters will be in attendance.
St Albans City and District Council is organising the festival which will highlight the District’s hospitality businesses and tourism offering.
It is part-funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and sponsored by Code Ninjas, Côte St Albans and Corker Taxis.
Councillor Anthony Rowlands, Lead for Events, said:
This is a new event which we are bringing to the City Centre as the warmer weather takes hold and residents look for things to do at the weekend.
There will be lots of exciting activities and entertainment that will appeal to people of all ages and interests. They will enjoy an afternoon of free music, games, activities, arts and crafts, eating, drinking and shopping.
One of our priorities is to make the event inclusive and accessible, so among the facilities are reserved seating for those less able to stand, wheelchair ramps beside kerbs and accessible viewing zones.
We are expecting the Spring Festival to attract many thousands of residents and visitors, so I would urge people to come along and not to miss out on the fun.
Among the many attractions to look out for are the:
Main Stage, situated near the Beech House, where there will be live performances by a host of local musicians.
Food and Drink Stalls selling a vast variety of refreshments and cuisines with plenty of outdoor seating.
Create and Play Zone with activities including traditional wooden games, toddler soft play and chalk pavement drawing.
Experience Zone by the Museum + Gallery where there will be drumming and dance workshops as well as information about plastic-free living, composting and cooking sustainably. There will also be chair-based yoga.
Code Ninjas, one of our sponsors, is offering young and old alike the opportunity to learn about game design and coding in their special pop-up dojo on St Peter’s Street.
Challenge Area with rodeo sheep, sideshow games and giant inflatable football darts provided by St Albans City FC.
Clock Tower Stage, supported by Côte St Albans, featuring music from OVO and Morris dancing.
Street Entertainers including stilt walkers and drummers.
Community Safe Zone, a quiet spot by the Civic Centre where people can take some time out.
Corker Taxis are providing some free as well as 10% discounted rides to the event.
Note: The UK Shared Prosperity Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK by investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.
There are currently 534 children in care in Plymouth who all need a safe and loving environment to call home.
Plymouth City Council is urgently appealing for more local people to consider becoming a foster carer, as a spotlight is shined on the benefits of fostering thanks to Foster Care Fortnight (12 to 25 May).
Foster for Plymouth, the Council’s own not-for-profit fostering service, helps children to live locally. When there is a shortage of local placements, children have to live in residential homes or with fostering families outside of Plymouth, which means they’re separated from their friends, family, school and other trusted professionals that they may be used to working with.
This can negatively impact children and young people’s wellbeing and make a difficult time that much harder.
Foster for Plymouth currently only has 119 fostering households, as well as 32 kinship carers (family or friends who care for a child they know), and is actively asking residents to consider fostering.
Councillor Jemima Laing, Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care, said: “Foster Care Fortnight gives us a fantastic opportunity to thank and celebrate all our foster carers for all the hard work they do supporting children and young people.
“It’s also a fantastic opportunity for us to promote fostering to our residents. If fostering is something you’re at all interested in, I would really encourage you to reach out to our fantastic team to ask any questions or visit our website to find out more about what’s involved. You could make a huge difference to a child’s life.”
There are less barriers to being a foster carer than many people realise. To be considered, you need to be over the age of 21, have a spare room and be genuinely invested in supporting the wellbeing of children and young people.
There are different types of fostering that may suit different lifestyles, including:
Time-limited fostering: Short term care that could last for a few days, weeks or even months, giving stability to a child or young person while decisions are made about their future
Permanent fostering: A long-term commitment if a child or young person is unable to return to their birth family, looking after them until they reach adulthood
Emergency fostering: Caring for children in an emergency scenario for a brief period (up to two weeks)
Respite fostering: Caring for children for a few nights at a time to give the child’s longer-term carer a break
Parent and child fostering: Opening your home to a child and their parents, supporting them while an assessment is carried out
Step Forward fostering: Helping a child or young person with higher needs, such as behaviour challenges, out of residential care.
Foster for Plymouth offer a range of benefits, including generous financial allowances. Carers are paid between £350 and £779 per child, per week, depending on the child’s age and individual needs, or more for the Step Forward scheme.
This payment includes a weekly allowance to cover the costs of caring for a child or young person as well as a reward payment.
Carers also receive additional payments to pay for birthdays and birthday parties, holidays, religious festivals (such as Christmas) and even proms.
Many foster carers are also eligible for a 50 per cent Council Tax discount, or full exemption. This applies even to foster carers who live outside of the Plymouth City Council boundaries.
In addition to financial support, there’s also a comprehensive package of practical and emotional support on offer. This includes in-depth training and development, peer support, help from a dedicated supporting social worker, an online portal with 24/7 access to key information and regular social events.
While increasing numbers of people in the UK – often young women – are opting for dermal fillers to achieve a fuller look without surgery, the rise of overfilled “trout pouts” and stiff “duck lips” has sparked a wave of alarm, even among those who might typically support cosmetic treatments.
Lip fillers are far from risk-free – and in some cases, the health consequences are permanent.
Unlike surgical procedures, lip fillers are not legally considered medical treatments. That means they are largely unregulated, and in many cases, are being injected by people with little or no medical training.
This is a problem, because lips are delicate and highly mobile. They contain very little natural fat and rely on a ring of tiny muscles to express everything from joy to concern. Injecting too much filler, or using the wrong kind, can interfere with these muscles – leaving the lips stiff, unnatural, or even immobile.
While some patients seek lip fillers for genuine medical reasons, such as facial palsy or disfigurement, these are exceptions. For most, the health risks can outweigh the cosmetic benefits.
What are fillers made of?
The substances used in lip fillers have changed over time. Older materials such as liquid silicone were eventually phased out due to serious complications, including scarring and migration of the product to other parts of the body.
Today, most lip fillers are made from hyaluronic acid (HA) – a substance that naturally exists in our bodies, particularly in connective tissue. HA attracts water, giving the skin volume and keeping it hydrated. As we age, our natural levels of HA decrease, which is why skin becomes drier and loses firmness.
The HA used in fillers is either extracted from animal tissue, such as rooster combs, or produced synthetically using bacteria. While this modern version is safer than older fillers, it still carries risks including allergic reactions, reactivation of cold sores (herpes simplex virus), infections and inflammation.
There have also been rare, but severe, cases of vascular complications such as blindness and tissue death, when fillers accidentally enter blood vessels.
The risk to kidneys
Less widely known – but equally concerning – is how repeat filler use may affect internal organs, particularly the kidneys.
Hyaluronic acid isn’t just a skin plumper – it also plays a role in the immune system. When the body detects inflammation, such as from repeated filler injections, it can respond by producing HA in the kidneys. This triggers a chain reaction: first, the kidneys produce high-molecular weight HA, which increases inflammation. Later, they switch to low-molecular weight HA, which reduces inflammation but causes fibrosis, or scarring of the tissue.
This double-edged response has been linked to chronic kidney disease and, in severe cases, even renal failure. Researchers are still exploring these links, but the risks become more significant with each repeated injection – especially in people who are genetically or medically vulnerable.
HA can also contribute to the formation of calcium oxalate crystals in the kidneys. These can lead to kidney stones and further tissue damage, potentially causing lifelong complications.
Who should avoid lip fillers?
Given these risks, some people should approach fillers with extreme caution – or avoid them entirely. These include people with a history of kidney problems or allergic reactions to filler ingredients, recurrent cold sores, autoimmune conditions (like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis), diabetes or blood clotting disorders, and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Despite the risks, lip fillers remain widely accessible and heavily promoted – particularly to young people influenced by social media trends. Many undergo these treatments without fully understanding what they’re putting into their bodies.
So, what needs to change? First, better regulation. If lip filler injections were treated as medical procedures, stricter controls could help reduce botched treatments and serious complications.
Second, more education. Patients need to understand that just because something is “non-surgical” doesn’t mean it’s safe. Fillers are still foreign substances being injected into the body. They come with risks – and these risks can increase over time.
Lip fillers can offer subtle, beautiful enhancements when used sparingly and professionally. But when misused or overused, they can lead to lasting disfigurement, loss of function, and even serious internal health issues like kidney damage.
Beauty trends should never come at the cost of your health.
Jim Frame, Professor, School of Medicine, Anglia Ruskin University
Work to fill the voids caused by the burst water main has now been completed.
Concrete to underpin parts of the building was poured on Wednesday and Structural Engineers have now given approval for the road to open once the concrete has gained sufficient strength over the weekend.
Inspection and monitoring will continue next week to ensure all measures taken have been effective.
Road markings have been repainted in preparation for reopening.
Pedestrian access through Rouge Bouillon will remain in place throughout the bank holiday weekend.
The project remains on schedule, with the road due to reopen before the morning rush hour on Monday 12 May, once all safety measures are confirmed.
This will be the final scheduled update. For more information and the latest schedule of works, please visit: Gov.je.
Lord Mayor, Councillor Sarah Duffy, with Colm O’Farrell, Executive Chairman of The Deluxe Group, and Roger Wilson, ABC Council Chief Executive
Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Councillor Sarah Duffy has warmly welcomed the announcement that Portadown-based company, The Deluxe Group, has been honoured with the King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade.
The award – one of the UK’s most prestigious business honours – recognises the company’s extraordinary 575% increase in overseas revenue over the past three years, with exports now accounting for over half of its total turnover.
Renowned for creating world-class, story-led interiors across the luxury hospitality, residential, cruise, and theme park sectors, The Deluxe Group has firmly established itself as a leader in immersive and experiential design. With over 50 years of experience, the company combines creativity, digital innovation, and artisan craftsmanship to deliver captivating environments for global clients.
Lord Mayor, Cllr Sarah Duffy meets staff from The Deluxe Group in their Portadown Office.
The firm’s impressive portfolio includes projects across the USA, Japan, the Middle East, and Europe, with standout work including the celebrated Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Banbridge.
Welcoming the announcement, the Lord Mayor, Councillor Sarah Duffy said:
“This is a truly outstanding achievement and a moment of great pride not just for The Deluxe Group, but for the entire borough. This prestigious honour is a reflection of the company’s exceptional vision, craftsmanship and global ambition. It’s a tremendous achievement and we’re incredibly proud of their success.”
This latest recognition reinforces the region’s growing reputation for design and manufacturing excellence on the international stage.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
​Hongkong Post announced today (May 12) that, as advised by the postal administration of Italy, due to a cyber incident, in addition to the provinces of Florence, Lucca, Grosseto, Livorno, Pistoia and Prato that were previously impacted by flooding, all mail delivery services to the country are subject to delay.
Not for distribution, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States or any jurisdiction in which such distribution would be unlawful.
[Ball Corporation]
Pre-stabilisation Period Announcement
BNP Paribas (contact: Stanford Hartman telephone: 0207 595 8222 hereby gives notice, as Stabilisation Coordinator, that the Stabilisation Manager(s) named below may stabilise the offer of the following securities in accordance with Commission Delegated Regulation EU/2016/1052 under the Market Abuse Regulation (EU/596/2014).
The securities:1
Issuer:
Ball Corporation
Guarantor (if any):
Substantially all of Ball Corporation’s domestic subsidiaries that guarantee its existing indebtedness will guarantee the notes, and none of Ball Corporation’s foreign subsidiaries will guarantee the notes.
Stabilisation period expected to end no later than:
19/06/2025
Existence, maximum size and conditions of use of over‑allotment facility:
The Stabilisation Manager(s) may over‑allot the securities to the extent permitted in accordance with applicable law.
Stabilisation trading venue:
OTC
In connection with the offer of the above securities, the Stabilisation Manager(s) may over‑allot the securities or effect transactions with a view to supporting the market price of the securities during the stabilisation period at a level higher than that which might otherwise prevail. However, stabilisation may not necessarily occur and any stabilisation action, if begun, may cease at any time. Any stabilisation action or over‑allotment shall be conducted in accordance with all applicable laws and rules.
This announcement is for information purposes only and does not constitute an invitation or offer to underwrite, subscribe for or otherwise acquire or dispose of any securities of the Issuer in any jurisdiction.
This announcement and the offer of the securities to which it relates are only addressed to and directed at persons outside the United Kingdom and persons in the United Kingdom who have professional experience in matters related to investments or who are high net worth persons within Article 12(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 and must not be acted on or relied on by other persons in the United Kingdom.
In addition, if and to the extent that this announcement is communicated in, or the offer of the securities to which it relates is made in, the UK or any EEA Member State before the publication of a prospectus in relation to the securities which has been approved by the competent authority in the UK or that Member State in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 (the “Prospectus Regulation”) (or which has been approved by a competent authority in another Member State and notified to the competent authority in the UK or that Member State in accordance with the Prospectus Regulation), this announcement and the offer are only addressed to and directed at persons in the UK or that Member State who are qualified investors within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation (or who are other persons to whom the offer may lawfully be addressed) and must not be acted on or relied on by other persons in the UK or that Member State.
This announcement is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States. The securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration. There will be no public offer of securities in the United States.
The Wolverhampton Information, Advice and Support Service (IASS) plays a key role in helping families navigate complex processes such as Education, Health and Care Plans, school placements, and appeals.
Feedback from its most recent satisfaction survey found that over 98% of respondents were satisfied with the service, with families feeling more confident, knowledgeable, and involved in discussions and decisions regarding their children’s needs. Over 99% of respondents also recognised the service as a neutral and unbiased source of support.
Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “The IASS’s partnership with the council has been pivotal in enhancing services for families.
“By working closely with education, health, and social care partners, it ensures that families receive comprehensive and coordinated support through what can be a very complex process.
“This work has led to better understanding of children’s needs, improved relationships with schools, and more effective support systems, all of which positively impact the lives of children and young people with SEND in our city.
“Best of all, the service is free and families should be rest assured that they can access information, advice, and support from IASS without any financial burden – so, if you need any support with SEND services or processes, please don’t hesitate to reach out for it.”
Dozens of families struggling to afford a safe and decent home are set to benefit from a new development agreement aimed at easing the region’s housing crisis.
Nearly 300 affordable homes, including 150 for social rent, are to be built on the site of the former Yardley Sewage Works in Stechford, Birmingham.
Birmingham City Council owns the land in Cole Hall Lane and has worked with housing developer Morro Partnerships, housing association Midland Heart, Homes England, the region’s elected Mayor and the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) to facilitate the deal.
On a visit to the site, Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, announced a £4.5m WMCA package for the scheme, the latest investment he has made as part of his mission to kickstart the biggest social housing programme the West Midlands has seen in decades.
Birmingham City Council has invested in the scheme, along with Homes England and the WMCA providing funding to clean up the brownfield site so it is suitable for house building. Morro and Midland Heart will begin construction of the homes before the end of the year.
The development deal comes as latest figures show that across the West Midlands there are 7,148 households, including 14,229 children, living in temporary accommodation and 65,335 households on the region’s social housing waiting lists.
Cllr Jayne Francis, Cabinet Member for Housing and Homeless, said:
“The national housing crisis means that we have several people on lists waiting for a home, the need for affordable homes has never been more urgent.
“Tackling this crisis is a key priority for this council, and this development demonstrates how we can do this by leading and working in partnership with others.
“We will continue discussions with developers and housing associations to facilitate deals that can provide our residents with warm, safe, and energy-efficient homes.”
Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, said,
“In my first year in office, I’ve funded schemes that will provide more than 500 new social homes – that’s more than in all the schemes we have ever grant funded.
“Too many families in this region are living in cold, damp houses waiting too long for a home to call their own. This cannot be allowed to continue which is why I am helping to build more warm and safe homes for everyone.
“My target is clear: 2,000 new social homes a year by 2028 to tackle our housing crisis. We cannot do this alone – I am calling on housing associations and private sector developers to come together, just as we have at Yardley Brook, to build these homes and change the lives of thousands of families here in the West Midlands.”
Joe Reeves, Deputy Chief Executive at Midland Heart, said:
“As one of the largest housing providers in the Midlands, we have a key role to play in addressing the shortage of homes and providing decent, affordable housing for local people across the region.
“We are aiming to deliver 2,250 new homes by 2030, which, combined with the 4,000 we have already delivered during our last corporate plan period to 2025, will mean we will have delivered well over 6,000 new homes in a decade. Yardley Brook will be a huge part of this, and we look forward to working with our partner Morro, to transform this site, and develop and deliver almost 300 new homes.”
Tom Broadway, Managing Director for the West Midlands at Morro Partnerships, said:
“We are all aware of the shortage of affordable housing across the country, and Birmingham is no different. This deal will go some way to increasing and improving the housing stock in an underserved region.
“Sustainability is a fundamental aspect of our work and is an inherent part of each development we build. Helping to make housing more affordable, accessible, and ready for the future forms part of our commitment to building responsibly and is an immensely rewarding undertaking in its own right.
“We look forward to completing construction on this development and seeing it evolve into a thriving community over the coming years.”
Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)
The Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee (EFRA) question the CEO, CFO and Chair of Thames Water, covering a range of topics including leadership and culture at the company, their recent court case and appeal, executive pay and bonuses and the future of Thames Water.
BERLIN, May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — We are excited to welcome Felix Rose to the Optio team as Head of Private Equity Solutions. Felix will lead our new private equity solution business and will be based in Frankfurt, Germany. The SaaS product will allow private equity clients and their portfolio companies to set-up and manage equity incentive programs on the Optio platform in an automated and efficient way. This marks one of Optio’s next key growth areas. It builds on the strong presence already established in the DACH region and Southern Europe, following a funding round backed by tech investor CCAP.
Felix joins Optio with nearly 30 years of experience across European private and public markets. Throughout his career, including roles at Morgan Stanley Investment Banking, Cinven, and Jamieson Corporate Finance, as well as co-founding and co-managing MPTransaction, he has consistently been involved in public and private M&A transactions and over the last seventeen years he has supported CEOs and business founders in navigating through large and complex private equity transactions.
“Felix brings an incredible depth of insight into how private equity firms operate and where they encounter friction in relation to their management equity programs,” says Christoffer Herheim, Co-founder and CEO of Optio. “His expertise in Management Equity Plans (MEPs) will be essential as we help firms transition away from manual processes and fragmented tools into fully digital workflows.”
In today’s market, private equity investors often rely on a patchwork of Word documents, Excel sheets, legal counsel, and large email threads to manage MEPs. This approach is not only resource-intensive, but it also creates risks around compliance, data privacy, and scalability – especially in cross-border deals involving dozens of participants.
Optio for Private Equity offers a smarter path forward. The platform simplifies compliance workflows (including KYC), enables secure access and communication for all stakeholders, and includes digital signing functionality for efficient execution of legal MEP documentation. These efficiencies not only reduce costs, but they also make it possible to extend equity participation deeper into portfolio companies, aligning with broader ownership movements like the U.S.-based “Ownership Works” initiative.
“What attracted me to Optio was more than just the product,” shares Felix. “It was the team’s drive, precision, and entrepreneurial energy. With the right technology, we can empower private equity firms and their portfolio companies to rethink how they design and manage equity incentives not just for the executive team, but for a much broader group of employees.”
Looking ahead, Felix envisions a shift across the industry: “I believe that within the next five to ten years every private equity management incentive program will run on a secure digital platform.”
About Optio Established in 2018, Optio combines software and deep expertise to manage equity compensation plans for companies of all sizes. The company is trusted by over 500 businesses, with equity plans managed across 100 countries and 15 stock exchanges. Optio’s unique ability to support organizations at every stage—from early development to the public market—sets it apart from other providers. By simplifying the complexities of employee incentive programs, Optio helps companies stay compliant, manage equity, report costs accurately, and maximize the benefits of their plans.
The focus for this year’s campaign is the power of relationships and the extraordinary impact that foster parents can have on children and young people who, for a wide range of reasons, are unable to remain with their birth families.
Carers can offer a home to a child or young person, for as long as is required – from just a few days or weeks to months or years. Personal qualities, and experience with children and/or young people, are more important than age or qualifications. Carers need to have experience of and enjoy spending time with children and young people and have a good sense of humour, lots of compassion, tolerance and bags of energy.
Councillor John Rebbeck, Convener of Learning and Families said: “All kinds of people can become foster carers – it is an extremely rewarding role to take on, not without its challenges, but the impact that carers have for children and young people can make a real, powerful difference to their lives.
“We have fantastic foster carers working with us here in Perth and Kinross and we are always keen to welcome more prospective carers to join them. In Foster Care Fortnight, I would urge anyone interested in making positive changes in a child’s life to get in touch with our Family Based Care Team.”
You can contact the Family Based Care Team by calling 01738 477806 or email ecsfpduty@pkc.gov.uk. For more information, visit our Fostering page.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3
News story
India and Pakistan: G7 foreign ministers’ statement, 10 May 2025
G7 foreign ministers gave a statement on India and Pakistan.
Joint statement:
We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America and the High Representative of the European Union, strongly condemn the egregious terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22 and urge maximum restraint from both India and Pakistan. Further military escalation poses a serious threat to regional stability. We are deeply concerned for the safety of civilians on both sides.
We call for immediate de-escalation and encourage both countries to engage in direct dialogue towards a peaceful outcome. We continue to monitor events closely and express our support for a swift and lasting diplomatic resolution.
The overwhelming majority of people in Scotland want rent controls to ensure rogue landlords cannot keep hiking rents, according to polling commissioned by the Scottish Greens.
The polling, carried out by Diffley, shows that 74% of people support rent controls and 83% believe that rents are too high compared to income levels in Scotland.
It also shows- that over two thirds (69%) support Green plans to force landlords to sell long-term derelict land and housing that they are sitting on.
Amendments proposed by Maggie Chapman MSP to the Housing (Scotland) Bill would create robust rent controls across Scotland, ensuring that rents can’t rise faster than incomes, if MSPs back them.
These protections put people over landlord profits, putting money back into people’s pockets and supporting renters through the ongoing cost of living crisis when bills and other costs are soaring.
“It is no wonder that there is such strong support for rent controls. The housing market is completely broken and it is renters who are paying the price. It underlines just how crucial it is that we take action.
“We’ve all seen how much damage is being done by rogue landlords who have been given carte blanche to line their pockets through massive rent increases.
“Not only does this hurt renters, often pushing them into poverty or even homelessness, but it hurts our economy as people have less money to spend.
“This is why the Scottish Greens implemented a rent freeze and eviction ban during Covid, saving people thousands of pounds, and it’s why we so strongly opposed the SNP ending the protections that we put in place afterwards.
“With the Housing Bill going through parliament we have the opportunity to stop the exploitation of renters and end rip-off rents. We must seize it.
“We must offer people and their families some financial stability, and less worry about losing the roof over their heads. Homes are for living in and not for profiteering. We need to make unaffordable rent hikes become a thing of the past.”
Last year, Councillor Mark Coker (the Claimant) applied for the planning decision in relation to Wilmot Gardens to be quashed, as the Council accepted one of the grounds in a legal challenge.
Following the Planning Committee granting permission for the application, the Council accepted the contention that it was necessary to include an appropriate condition to ensure the provision of affordable housing in perpetuity.
At the time of the application, planning officers did not consider it was necessary to include the condition because the number of units proposed fell below the policy threshold for affordable housing and was secured by a land transfer agreement. However, after further detailed consideration of the planning and legal issues raised, an application was made to the courts for permission to quash the decision and to bring the planning application back before Planning Committee, with the appropriate condition to secure the affordable housing in planning terms.
The Council as the Defendant received the sealed court order on Thursday 8 May which set out that a judge had given permission for the judicial review to be granted and had further consented to the quashing of the planning decision as requested in the Claimant’s application.
The planning department determines over 1,400 planning applications every year and while the department makes every effort to deal with every application efficiently, proportionately and in accordance with all relevant legislation, policy and guidance, the planning system is increasingly complex.
A beautiful ancient Saxon pendant buried for more than 1,200 years in a Leeds field is giving experts a fascinating glimpse into life in early medieval Yorkshire.
Believed to date from the eighth century, the gilded pectoral cross may have once been a badge of office for an important church leader or official and was unearthed last year by a metal detectorist.
With one arm broken, and the central stone now missing, the cross is nevertheless a stunning example of metalwork, made from solid silver covered with a thin layer of gold leaf.
Decorated with an intricate interlacing Saxon pattern, the remarkable find would have probably been worn around the neck of someone of high status and is the latest in a number of discoveries indicating Leeds and its surrounding area may once have been home to some important and influential figures in the early medieval period.
The small artefact went through the Portable Antiquities Scheme Treasure process, and was secured by Leeds Museums and Galleries thanks to the generous contributions of funders. The cross is now set to go on display at Leeds City Museum later this year.
Kat Baxter, Leeds Museums and Galleries’ curator of archaeology, said: “The cross is beautifully decorated on both sides, which suggests it was designed to hang around the neck with the suspension loop on the missing arm. It would certainly have been worn by someone of high status and is an outward display of religious identity.
“It was made at a time when Leeds was part of the Saxon Kingdom of Northumbria and, along with a number of other discoveries in the area, really helps us build a picture of the types of people who would have lived here during this time”.
The 8th Century saw the earliest known written reference to Leeds, or Loidis, by the historian and monk The Venerable Bede. As well as Northumbia, England’s kingdoms included Mercia, Wessex, and East Anglia.
The cross’s discovery is the latest in a string of significant Saxon and Roman finds made in the Leeds area in recent years.
Just two years ago, a lead coffin buried for more than 1,600 years was discovered in a previously unknown cemetery site near Garforth alongside the remains of more than 60 individuals from late Roman to early Saxon periods.
The coffin contained the remains of a woman aged 25-35, who was buried wearing a bracelet, glass bead necklace and a finger ring or earring.
And in 2012 Leeds Museums and Galleries acquired The West Yorkshire Hoard, a group of seven objects found in the Leeds area by a metal detectorist dating from the seventh to 11th centuries. Five of the objects in the hoard are high quality gold jewellery, which would only have been worn by people of exceptional wealth in Saxon society.
Kat added: “All of these finds are part of a puzzle which together show that Leeds was home to high status, important individuals during the Saxon period, and this beautiful cross is the latest glimpse into the past. Unfortunately, objects representing less wealthy people are less likely to survive.
“There are certainly more objects out there waiting to be discovered, and responsible metal detectorists and The Portable Antiquities Scheme are playing a really important role in increasing our understanding of local history. Without them, this beautiful piece of Saxon metalwork, and many others like it, would never have been found and made available for future generations.”
Funding for the cross came through generous support from the Arts Council England /V&A Purchase Grant Fund, the Leeds Philosophical and Literary Society, and the Friends of Leeds City Museums. It was acquired under The Treasure Act 1996.
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “This find is a beautiful example of the history all around us and gives a fascinating insight into the story of Leeds.
“It’s always wonderful when we are able to add important objects like this to our collections and we’re very grateful for the continued support of funders and visitors in helping us to preserve our local heritage.”
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
CANBERRA, May 12 (Xinhua) — Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced his cabinet for his second term on Monday and will be sworn in at a ceremony attended by Governor-General Samantha Mostyn on Tuesday.
“I intend to recommend to the Governor General the next composition of the government, which will be sworn in tomorrow at 9:00. Immediately after that, the full government will meet here in the parliament building,” said E. Albanese.
He noted that the Labour Party now has the largest faction in the history of the federation.
As of Monday, the Labor Party was on track to win an absolute majority of 93 of the 150 seats in the lower house of parliament, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). At that time, 83.9 percent of the votes had been counted, with five seats still “in question.”
Labor had never won more than 90 seats in the lower house before, and no party in Australian history had won more than 94 seats.
After winning the election, E. Albanese called on his party’s elected members to focus on working for the benefit of all Australians. –0–
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, May 12 (Xinhua) — China’s automobile production and sales posted double-digit growth in the first four months of this year, indicating robust domestic consumption despite global uncertainties.
From January to April this year, China’s total auto output was nearly 10.18 million units, up 12.9 percent year on year. Auto sales totaled 10.06 million units, up 10.8 percent from the same period last year, data from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers showed Monday. -0-
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, May 12 (Xinhua) — The United States should cherish China’s goodwill and engage in sincere negotiations instead of spreading baseless rumors of “China’s collapse,” a Chinese economist wrote in an opinion piece provided to Xinhua News Agency, highlighting China’s strong economic performance this year.
“We should let facts, not slander, speak about the Chinese economy, and the world will make a fair judgment,” wrote Dong Yu, executive vice president of the Institute of China Development Planning at Tsinghua University, in an article titled “Fundamentals of China’s Economy from the Perspective of Macroeconomic Regulation.”
Citing China’s solid performance in economic growth, employment, price stability and the international balance of payments this year, the article says: “Few major economies in the world have managed to maintain stable performance in all four key areas as China has.”
Meanwhile, he wrote that US GDP contracted 0.3 percent in the first quarter of 2025 from the previous quarter on an annualized basis, and among other sluggish indicators, hiring at US companies slowed to its slowest pace in nine months in April of this year.
The article says that China has not underestimated the challenges that changes in the external environment pose to its domestic economy. It has recently introduced a number of additional policy measures to address both the direct and indirect effects of the tariff war.
“Many of the world’s leading investment institutions forecast robust growth for China’s economy in 2025, and also expect the country’s 15th Five-Year Plan to bring certainty to the development of not only China but the entire world,” the economist wrote.
In contrast, the US was aggressive in launching a tariff war, turning a blind eye to domestic issues, as if it did not need to consider the negative impact of such a war on its own businesses and population, the article says. “To this day, the US government has not introduced any systemic policies to ensure the welfare of the population, instead focusing its main efforts on partisan warfare and manipulation of capital markets.”
If a government does not plan long-term, lacks human capital and infrastructure support, has uncoordinated production and supply chains, and is not even a leader in automated manufacturing or robotics, then claims that it can revive manufacturing through tariffs are nothing more than a far-fetched narrative, Dong Yu wrote.
According to the article, recent moves in the US stock market do not indicate a restoration of confidence. “Instead, they reflect the view of international capital that China has not abandoned its goodwill or closed the door to negotiations.”
“Of course, such good will and patience will not be unlimited, and will be absolutely inapplicable to those who persist in shameless coercion, extortion and denial of obligations,” the economist wrote.
What the US really needs now is to value China’s goodwill, demonstrate its sincerity and genuinely engage in negotiations, rather than pinning its hopes on baseless rhetoric about a “collapse of the Chinese economy” that, according to the article, will never materialize. -0-
Trujillo (Agenzia Fides) – Affection, gratitude, and emotion. These are the feelings that resonate in the words of Father José Hipolito Purizaca Sernaque, National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in Peru, when he speaks about the new Bishop of Rome. “Pope Leo XIV, who also obtained Peruvian citizenship in 2015,” says Father Purizaca, a member of the clergy of the Archdiocese of Trujillo, “spent a long period of his life in Peru, more than twenty years in total, always on mission, living in the peripheries and caring for the weakest. The Pontifical Mission Societies were also very dear to his heart. He supported them especially when he was Bishop of the Diocese of Chiclayo.” “During those years,” Father José Hipolito recalls today, “Robert Francis Prevost also cultivated a very close relationship with the boys and girls of the Pontifical Mission Societies, who call themselves ‘Youth Without Borders,’ and who had the opportunity to share many moments and celebrations with him, including the Christmas Mass in 2014.” Father Purizaca also recalls participating in the Congress on Catholic Education held in the Archdiocese of Trujillo in 2015, where Bishop Prevost sat beside him as a speaker.More recently, Father Purizaca received a video message on the occasion of the General Assembly of the Council of Latin American Bishops (CELAM) in May 2023, in which Archbishop Prevost – now appointed by Pope Francis as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops – congratulated the Pontifical Mission Societies in Peru on their 91st anniversary and thanked all those who work with dedication in the missionary service of the Church.”The new Pope,” the National Director concluded, “is known as a missionary, as someone who knows how to be with everyone and unite everyone. Wherever he has served as a missionary, he is greatly appreciated by lay people, priests, religious, and bishops. A great man, a man of God.” (EG) (Agenzia Fides, 10/5/2025)
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by Pascale RizkRome (Agenzia Fides) – About 900 nuns from around the world gathered in Rome from May 5 to 9 to participate in the 23rd Assembly of the International Union of Superiors General, dedicated to the theme “Consecrated Life: a hope that transforms.”Founded on December 8, 1965, the last day of the Second Vatican Council, the International Union of Superiors General – a body that unites the superiors general of religious institutes and societies of apostolic life – celebrates its 60th anniversary this year. At the conclusion of the assembly, which takes place every three years, consecrated women from all over the world witnessed together the end of the Conclave and the election of the new Pope, Leo XIV.It was 6:09 p.m. on Thursday, May 8, when the hall of the Hotel Ergife, where the assembly was held, erupted with joy upon the announcement that “white smoke” was rising from the chimney on the roof of the Apostolic Palace. A few minutes earlier, Sister Mary Barron, the outgoing president of the UISG and a member of the Dicastery for Evangelization (Section for First Evangelization and New Particular Churches), had commemorated May 8, 1994, when the Algerian martyrs suffered martyrdom in Hennaya, Algeria. Two of them, Brother Henri Vergès and Sister Paul-Hélène Saint-Raymond, had been murdered in the library of the diocese of Algiers, in the casbah, on May 8, 1994.”Pope Francis was a friend of the poor and forged bonds of friendship with all religions of the world. He was also humble, choosing humility as his throne and simplicity as his language,” read Sister Barron in the message on Pope Francis’s death, sent by the local Muslim community, the Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of the Apostles, a sign “of the transforming hope offered by the authentic witness of the Christian message.” The message went on to emphasize that Pope Francis’s pontificate “was a breath of fresh air, fragile but tenacious, with a heart that listened more than a voice that imposed. Today it is not only the Church that weeps, but all of humanity.”Martyrdom, love for Christ until the end, and dedication to the poor were some of the many themes discussed during the Assembly. From the Colombian Amazon, across the border between Mexico and the United States, to Myanmar, the Superiors General shared the testimonies of their sisters serving in lands of suffering and conflict. “The moon does not dominate, does not blind, it remains in the company of the stars, it dwells in the heaven of communion, and for this very reason, it becomes an image of the Church today: it reflects a light that is not its own, like consecrated women who shine only if they are oriented toward the Lord,” stated Sister Simona Brambilla, a Consolata missionary recently confirmed by Pope Leo XIV as Prefect of the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, in her address.“Night,” she added, “is not only darkness. It is also the space of creativity, of intuition, of birth. As on Easter night, it is the time of the birth of a new life, small, fragile, but full of hope.” In a world that fears the night, consecrated life reminds us that it is precisely there that God speaks, where hope germinates, where prophecy takes shape.”In their final declaration, the Superiors General expressed their gratitude for the dynamism that Pope Francis has brought to consecrated life and renewed their commitment as women of peace, present at the foot of the cross, at the borders, who keep watch in the night; women who accompany and foster evangelical and inclusive communities, and who, even in old age and illness, continue to be signs of hope. (Agenzia Fides, 10/5/2025)
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Fresh, stringent security measures have been imposed in New Caledonia following aborted political talks last week and ahead of the first anniversary of the deadly riots that broke out on 13 May 2024, which resulted in 14 deaths and 2.2 billion euros (NZ$4.2 billion) in damages.
On Sunday, the French High Commission in Nouméa announced that from Monday, May 12, to Friday, May 15, all public marches and demonstrations will be banned in the Greater Nouméa Area.
Restrictions have also been imposed on the sale of firearms, ammunition, and takeaway alcoholic drinks.
The measures aim to “ensure public security”.
In the wake of the May 2024 civil unrest, a state of emergency and a curfew had been imposed and had since been gradually lifted.
The decision also comes as “confrontations” between law enforcement agencies and violent groups took place mid-last week, especially in the township of Dumbéa — on the outskirts of Nouméa — where there were attempts to erect fresh roadblocks, High Commissioner Jacques Billant said.
The clashes, including incidents of arson, stone-throwing and vehicles being set on fire, are reported to have involved a group of about 50 individuals and occurred near Médipôle, New Caledonia’s main hospital, and a shopping mall.
Clashes also occurred in other parts of New Caledonia, including outside the capital Nouméa.
It adds another reason for the measures is the “anniversary date of the beginning of the 2024 riots”.
Wrecked and burnt-out cars gathered after the May 2024 riots and dumped at Koutio-Koueta on Ducos island in Nouméa. Image: NC 1ère TV
Law and order stepped up French authorities have also announced that in view of the first anniversary of the start of the riots tomorrow, law and order reinforcements have been significantly increased in New Caledonia until further notice.
This includes a total of 2600 officers from the Gendarmerie, police, as well as reinforcements from special elite SWAT squads and units equipped with 16 Centaur armoured vehicles.
Drones are also included.
The aim is to enforce a “zero tolerance” policy against “urban violence” through a permanent deployment “night and day”, with a priority to stop any attempt to blockade roads, especially in Greater Nouméa, to preserve freedom of movement.
One particularly sensitive focus would be placed on the township of Saint-Louis in Mont-Dore often described as a pro-independence stronghold which was a hot spot and the scene of violent and deadly clashes at the height of the 2024 riots.
“We’ll be present wherever and whenever required. We are much stronger than we were in 2024,” High Commissioner Billant told local media during a joint inspection with French gendarmes commander General Nicolas Matthéos and Nouméa Public Prosecutor Yves Dupas.
Dupas said that over the past few months the bulk of criminal acts was regarded as “delinquency” — nothing that could be likened to a coordinated preparation for fresh public unrest similar to last year’s.
Billant said that, depending on how the situation evolves in the next few days, he could also rely on additional “potential reinforcements” from mainland France if needed.
French High Commissioner Jacques Billant, Public Prosecutor Yves Dupas and the Gendarmerie commander, General Nicolas Matthéos, confer last Wednesday . . . “We are much stronger than we were in 2024.” Image: Haut-Commissariat de la République en Nouvelle-Calédonie
New Zealand ANZAC war memorial set alight A New Zealand ANZAC war memorial in the small rural town of Boulouparis (west coast of the main island of Grande Terre) was found vandalised last Friday evening.
The monument, inaugurated just one year ago at last year’s ANZAC Day to commemorate the sacrifice of New Zealand soldiers during world wars in the 20th century, was set alight by unidentified people, police said.
Tyres were used to keep the fire burning.
An investigation into the circumstances of the incident is underway, the Nouméa Public Prosecutor’s office said, invoking charges of wilful damage.
Australia, New Zealand travel warnings In the neighbouring Pacific, two of New Caledonia’s main tourism source markets, Australia and New Zealand, are maintaining a high level or increased caution advisory.
The main identified cause is an “ongoing risk of civil unrest”.
In its latest travel advisory, the Australian brief says “demonstrations and protests may increase in the days leading up to and on days of national or commemorative significance, including the anniversary of the start of civil unrest on May 13.
“Avoid demonstrations and public gatherings. Demonstrations and protests may turn violent at short notice.”
Pro-France political leaders at a post-conclave media conference in Nouméa last Thursday . . . objected to the proposed “sovereignty with France”, a kind of independence in association with France. Image: RRB/RNZ Pacific
Inconclusive talks Last Thursday, May 8, French Minister for Overseas Manuel Valls, who had managed to gather all political parties around the same table for negotiations on New Caledonia’s political future, finally left the French Pacific territory. He admitted no agreement could be found at this stage.
In the final stage of the talks, the “conclave” on May 5-7, he had put on the table a project for New Caledonia’s accession to a “sovereignty with France”, a kind of independence in association with France.
This option was not opposed by pro-independence groups, including the FLNKS (Kanak Socialist National Liberation Front).
French Overseas Territories Minister Manuel Valls . . . returned to Paris last week without a deal on New Caledonia’s political future. Image: Caledonia TV screenshot APR
But the pro-France movement, in support of New Caledonia remaining a part of France, said it could not approve this.
The main pillar of their argument remained that after three self-determination referendums held between 2018 and 2021, a majority of voters had rejected independence (even though the last referendum, in December 2021, was massively boycotted by the pro-independence camp because of the covid-19 pandemic).
The anti-independence block had repeatedly stated that they would not accept any suggestion that New Caledonia could endorse a status bringing it closer to independence.
New Caledonia’s pro-France MP at the French National Assembly, Nicolas Metzdorf, told local media at this stage, his camp was de facto in opposition to Valls, “but not with the pro-independence camp”.
Metzdorf said a number of issues could very well be settled by talking to the pro-independence camp.
Electoral roll issue sensitive This included the very sensitive issue of New Caledonia’s electoral roll, and conditions of eligibility at the next provincial elections.
🔴 Mesures administratives 🔴
À l’approche de la date d’anniversaire du début des émeutes de 2024, le Haut-commissaire, en lien avec les élus et responsables du monde économique, annonce les mesures suivante du 12 au 15 mai 2025 :
— Haut-commissariat en Nouvelle-Calédonie 🇫🇷 (@HC98800) May 10, 2025
Direct contacts with Macron Both Metzdorf and Backès also said during interviews with local media that in the midst of their “conclave” negotiations, they had had contacts as high as French President Emmanuel Macron, asking him whether he was aware of the “sovereignty with France” plan and if he endorsed it.
Another pro-France leader, Virginie Ruffenach (Le Rassemblement-Les Républicains), also confirmed she had similar exchanges, through her party Les Républicains, with French Minister of Home Affairs Bruno Retailleau, from the same right-wing party.
As Minister of Home Affairs, Retailleau would have to be involved later in the New Caledonian issue.
Divided reactions Since minister Valls’s departure, reactions were still flowing at the weekend from across New Caledonia’s political chessboard.
“We have to admit frankly that no agreement was struck”, Valls said last week during a media conference.
“Maybe the minds were not mature yet.”
But he said France would now appoint a “follow up committee” to keep working on the “positive points” already identified between all parties.
During numerous press conferences and interviews, anti-independence leaders have consistently maintained that the draft compromise put to them by Minister Valls during the latest round of negotiations last week, was not acceptable.
They said this was because it contained several elements of “independence-association”, including the transfer of key powers from Paris to Nouméa, a project of “dual citizenship” and possibly a seat at the United Nations.
“In proposing this solution, minister [Valls] was biased and blocked the negotiations. So he has prevented the advent of an agreement”, pro-France Les Loyalistes and Southern Province President leader Sonia Backès told public broadcaster NC la 1ère on Sunday.
“For us, an independence association was out of the question because the majority of [New] Caledonians voted three time against independence,” she said.
More provincial power plan Instead, the Le Rassemblement-LR and Les Loyalistes bloc were advocating a project that would provide more powers to each of the three provinces, including in terms of tax revenue collection.
The project, often described as a de facto partition, however, was not retained in the latest phases of the negotiations, because it contravened France’s constitutional principle of a united and indivisible nation.
“But no agreement does not mean chaos”, Backès said.
On the contrary, she believes that by not agreeing to the French minister’s deal plan, her camp had “averted disaster for New Caledonia”.
“Tomorrow, there will be another minister . . . and another project”, she said, implicitly betting on Valls’s departure.
On the pro-independence front, a moderate “UNI” (National Union For Independence) said a in a statement even though negotiations did not eventuate into a comprehensive agreement, the French State’s commitment and method had allowed to offer “clear and transparent terms of negotiations on New Caledonia’s institutional and political future”.
The main FLNKS group, mainly consisting of pro-independence Union Calédonienne (UC) party, also said that even though no agreement could be found as a result of the latest round of talks, the whole project could be regarded as “advances” and “one more step . . . not a failure” in New Caledonia’s decolonisation, as specified in the 1998 Nouméa Accord, FLNKS chief negotiator and UC party president Emmanuel Tjibaou said.
Deplored the empty outcome Other parties involved in the talks, including Eveil Océanien and Calédonie Ensemble, have deplored the empty outcome of talks last week.
They called it a “collective failure” and stressed that above all, reaching a consensual solution was the only way forward, and that the forthcoming elections and the preceding campaign could bear the risk of further radicalisation and potential violence.
In the economic and business sector, the conclave’s inconclusive outcome has brought more anxiety and uncertainty.
“What businesses need, now, is political stability, confidence. But without a political agreement that many of us were hoping for, the confidence and visibility is not there, there’s no investment”, New Caledonia’s MEDEF-NC (Business Leaders Union) vice-president Bertrand Courte told NC La Première.
As a result of the May 2024 riots, more than 600 businesses, mainly in Nouméa, were destroyed, causing the loss of more than 10,000 jobs.
Over the past 12 months, New Caledonia GDP (gross domestic product) has shrunk by an estimated 10 to 15 percent, according to the latest figures produced by New Caledonia statistical institute ISEE.
What next? Crucial provincial elections As no agreement was found, the next course of action for New Caledonia was to hold provincial elections no later than 30 November 2025, under the existing system, which still restricts the list of persons eligible to vote at those local elections.
The makeup of the electoral roll for local polls was the very issue that triggered the May 2024 riots, as the French Parliament, at the time, had endorsed a Constitutional amendment to push through opening the list.
At the time, the pro-independence camp argued the changes to eligibility conditions would eventually “dilute” their votes and make indigenous Kanaks a minority in their own country.
The Constitutional bill was abandoned after the May 2024 rots.
The sensitive issue remains part of the comprehensive pact that Valls had been working on for the past four months.
The provincial elections are crucial in that they also determine the proportional makeup of New Caledonia’s Congress and its government and president.
The provincial elections, initially scheduled to take place in May 2024, and later in December 2024, and finally no later than 30 November 2025, were already postponed twice.
Even if the provincial elections are held later this year (under the current “frozen” rules), the anti-independence camp has already announced it would contest its result.
According to the anti-independence camp, the current restrictions on New Caledonia’s electoral roll contradict democratic principles and have to be “unfrozen” and opened up to any citizen residing for more than 10 uninterrupted years.
The present electoral roll is “frozen”, which means it only allows citizens who have have been livingin New Caledonia before November 1998 to cast their vote at local elections.
The case could be brought to the French Constitutional Council, or even higher, to a European or international level, said pro-France politicians.
This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.
European Commission Speech Brussels, 12 May 2025 Last week we celebrated 80 years of victory in World War Two. And today, what we need to remember that victory in World War Two was not only a victory of armies. It was also a victory of factories. And the same is true today. Peace through strength will come from production power and brain power.
To stop Putin, we need to produce more. We need to innovate more. And we need to do that together – in the EU and with Ukraine.