NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Global: How Pope Francis changed the Catholic Church’s foreign policy

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Massimo D’Angelo, Research Associate in the Institute for Diplomacy and International Affairs, Loughborough University

    Pope Francis greets visitors at Saint Peter’s Square, Vatican City. Ricardo Perna / Shutterstock

    When the late Pope Francis first stepped on to the balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica following his election 12 years ago, he remarked that he had been called almost from the “end of the world”. He was the first non-European pontiff since Gregory III, elected in AD731, who was of Syrian origin. And he was the first pope in history to come from Latin America.

    This is not merely a biographical detail. His papacy was transformative in shaping a Catholic Church that was not focused solely on Europe. He shifted its attention from the old continent to the world’s peripheries, aspiring to create a truly global church.

    Before his election, Pope Francis was called Jorge Mario Bergoglio and had, since 1998, held the office of Archbishop of Buenos Aires. In Argentina, he worked to expand and support the efforts of priests serving in the slums.

    The Catholic Church has maintained a presence in the peripheries of Buenos Aires since the 1960s, when a group called Priests for the Third World established itself in impoverished neighbourhoods. These priests advocated for the rights of their parishioners and preached liberation theology, a movement that aligns the Catholic Church with the struggles of marginalised groups.

    The theme of the peripheries became a defining thread of Pope Francis’s papacy. Days before he became pope, Francis told the cardinals that elected him that the Church must “come out of herself and to go to the peripheries, not only geographically, but also the existential peripheries”.

    Without doing so, he warned, the Church risks becoming structurally disconnected from the ambivalent and contradictory processes that shape the modern global era.



    Read more:
    Pope Francis dies: an unconventional pontiff who sought to modernise Catholicism

    Pope Francis navigated a complex relationship with liberation theology. Some interpretations of the movement, which gained prominence in the late 1960s, incorporate Marxist elements. This raised concerns within the Church hierarchy and among western governments during the cold war.

    As a young Jesuit in Argentina, Bergoglio was influenced by the 1969 Declaration of San Miguel. This rejected Marxist interpretations of liberation theology and developed an alternative called the “theology of the people”. Rather than drawing on Marxist analysis, it emphasises the faith, culture and spiritual expressions of ordinary people, especially the poor.

    And from 1976 to 1983, when Argentina was ruled by a military dictatorship, Bergoglio distanced himself from radical priests engaged in liberation theology. His caution not to alienate military hierarchy led to tensions, most notably in the 1976 abduction of two Jesuits, Orlando Yorio and Franz Jalics.

    The then Father Bergoglio was accused of withdrawing his protection from the priests, which allegedly left them exposed to the regime. In 2005, a secret dossier was anonymously circulated among cardinals accusing him of complicity in the abduction, based on a complaint by human rights lawyer Marcelo Parrilli.

    Some sources claimed this was smear campaign orchestrated by Jesuits who had previously clashed with Bergoglio. And in his testimony, Bergoglio stated that he met on two occasions with the dictators and members of the military, Jorge Videla and Emilio Massera, but to intercede on behalf of the detained priests. The Vatican denied he was guilty of any wrongdoing.

    Despite his cautious stance, Bergoglio consistently upheld the Church’s priority of addressing the needs of the poor. This was a principle that later defined his papacy. As Pope Francis, he softened the Vatican’s previous opposition to liberation theology, reaffirming its emphasis on social justice while distancing it from Marxist rhetoric.

    A post-European Pope

    Pope Francis’s predecessor, Joseph Ratzinger, maintained a profound engagement with Europe. This shaped his thinking as a theologian, cardinal and later as Pope Benedict XVI. His papacy was marked by numerous visits across the continent, where he delivered significant speeches on the Church’s role and Europe’s intellectual and spiritual challenges.

    One of his most notable speeches, delivered at the University of Regensburg in Germany in 2006, sparked considerable controversy in the Muslim world. The lecture explored Europe’s relationship with Christianity and its future responsibilities.

    But it became infamous for his quotation of Manuel II Palaiologos, a Byzantine emperor who characterised aspects of Islam as violent. This remark provoked widespread anger and protests across the Muslim world, highlighting the sensitivities surrounding interfaith dialogue and the role of religion in global politics.

    In contrast, Pope Francis recognised that Christians must go “beyond the walls” to embrace humanity as a whole. In his vision, the Church should function as a “field hospital”, extending its care even to the so-called “churches of the decimal point” – those with only a tiny percentage of Catholics relative to the populations in which they exist.

    Under his leadership, the Vatican’s geopolitical focus shifted significantly. The composition of the College of Cardinals, which will elect his successor, has changed. The historic European influence has been diluted.

    The regional distribution of the 135 cardinal electors now includes 23 from Asia, 20 from North America, 18 each from South America and Africa, and three from Oceania. Europe, which comprised a slight majority of the body when Francis was elected in 2013, has 53 cardinals.

    This diversification aligns with Francis’s vision of a Church that is truly present across the globe. Pope Francis’s apostolic journeys further reflected this global reorientation, taking him to places such as Iraq, Kazakhstan, the United Arab Emirates and South Korea.

    Pope Francis during his visit to Iraq in 2021.
    Jon_photographi / Shutterstock

    Another major transformation has been in the Church’s relationship with political power. While Ratzinger often saw alliances with political parties as necessary to safeguard the Church’s survival in an era of secular decline, Francis rejected this approach.

    As he stated in Kazakhstan in 2022, “the sacred must not be instrumentalised by the profane”. This stance has drawn criticism, particularly in relation to his responses to conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. His constant appeals for peace, rather than direct condemnation of religious or political leaders, led some to perceive his position as one of “neutralism” or even pro-Russian.

    Yet his approach appears to have been rooted in the conviction that dialogue is essential, even with the most controversial figures. This was evident in his willingness to engage with General Min Aung Hlaing, the head of Myanmar’s military government, further underscoring his effort to desacralise worldly power.

    Massimo D’Angelo does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. How Pope Francis changed the Catholic Church’s foreign policy – https://theconversation.com/how-pope-francis-changed-the-catholic-churchs-foreign-policy-255051

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council scores highly in data protection review

    Source: City of Derby

    Derby City Council has been officially recognised for its hard work to keep residents’ and customers’ data safe.

    During a recent routine audit, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) – the Government body which makes sure organisations comply with data protection law – praised the Council for its high assurance ratings in keeping resident’s data secure.

    The ICO assesses potential risks to data security and the likely impact, considering an organisation’s structure, concerns raised by the ICO or the Council, and risks which affect the sector more widely.

    The recent audit focused on three areas: governance and accountability, cyber security, and personal data breach management and reporting.

    Commenting on the personal data breach management and reporting category, the report noted:

    Derby City Council has demonstrated a strong communication structure with IG (Information Governance) being communicated through multiple channels with effective messaging. This has led to a strong privacy culture, as demonstrated through staff engagement in drop-in sessions and the volume of queries received by the IG team.

    Councillor Kathy Kozlowski, Cabinet Member for Governance and Finance said:

    Ensuring that our resident’s and customer’s data is kept safe and secure is very important to us and I’m pleased that the ICO’s recent audit reflects our commitment to excellence in this area.

    A big thank you to all our colleagues who work hard to ensure that the appropriate processes and practices are in place and followed correctly. Our teams are reviewing the feedback and looking at areas for further improvement to ensure that we can maintain these high standards.

    Our residents can be confident that the information that they share with us is shared in confidence.”

    Several recommendations were also made to support the Council to improve their practices. These are being reviewed by the Council’s Information Governance team and will be implemented over the coming months.

    The full report is available to view on the Information Commissioner’s Office website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Kemp Announces Hall County Solicitor General Appointment

    Source: US State of Georgia

    Atlanta, GA – Governor Brian P. Kemp today announced the appointment of Inez Grant as the Solicitor General of Hall County, filling the vacancy created by the resignation of Stephanie Woodard.

     

     

    Inez Grant has served the Hall County area since becoming a member of the State Bar of Georgia in 1992.  She began her legal career as a front-line prosecutor in the Hall County Solicitor General’s Office, where she helped establish Hall County’s Domestic Violence Taskforce. Grant eventually rose to chief assistant under former Solicitor General Jerry Rylee before going on to serve for several years as chief assistant Solicitor General in Forsyth County. Grant practiced both felony and misdemeanor prosecution for 17 years before leaving her beloved line of work for family reasons. Since leaving full-time prosecution, Grant has managed a successful private practice in Hall County focusing on domestic litigation, criminal defense, immigration law, Guardian Ad Litem work, and Juvenile Court matters. In addition, Grant serves as the Solicitor for the City Court of Gainesville and City of Oakwood.

    Grant graduated from Brenau University before obtaining her law degree from Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School. When not in court, she enjoys spending time with her family and her beautiful granddaughters. Grant coached high school mock trial teams and was recognized by the State Bar for her work with the Unauthorized Practice of Law Committee. She also currently sits on Brenau University’s Conflict Resolution and Legal Studies Advisory Board.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: zfstiftung.de: BaFin warns about ZukunftsFinanz Stiftung

    Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English

    The financial supervisory authority BaFin warns against investment recommendations and investment offers from ZukunftsFinanz Stiftung, particularly via its WhatsApp group. Neither the allegedly Frankfurt-based ZukunftsFinanz Stiftung nor its representative, Dr Max Becker, have been granted a licence to conduct banking, financial and/or investment services in Germany.

    Anyone providing financial or investment services in Germany may do so only with authorisation from BaFin. However, some companies offer these services without the necessary authorisation.

    The information provided by BaFin is based on section 37 (4) of the German Banking Act (Kreditwesengesetz – KWG).

    Please be aware:

    BaFin, the German Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt – BKA) and the German state criminal police offices (Landeskriminalämter) recommend that consumers seeking to invest money online should exercise the utmost caution and do the necessary research beforehand in order to identify fraud attempts at an early stage.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Global: VAT hikes can raise tax without hurting the poor: an economist sets out the evidence

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Imraan Valodia, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Climate, Sustainability and Inequality and Director, Southern Centre for Inequality Studies, University of the Witwatersrand

    South Africa’s 2025-6 budget has been subjected to more comment than usual. This is due to the political tensions generated by a proposed increase in value added tax (VAT).

    South Africa’s choices on how it manages the revenue and expenditure issues in the budget are critical for how the larger issues of the country’s debt and its economic policies are handled. As things stand, the economy is locked into a low-growth trajectory which make the debt, revenue and expenditure issues more difficult to deal with.

    This piece draws on a longer article which explores these issues in greater detail. Here, I focus only on the VAT issue.

    The finance minister originally tabled an increase of 2 percentage points, then changed it to 0.5 percentage points. Still, it is threatening to end the country’s government of national unity, which was set up after elections in 2024.



    Read more:
    South Africa’s finance minister wanted to raise VAT: the pros and cons of a tricky tax

    Most commentators, including the political parties that have opposed the proposal, many academics, and non-governmental organisations claiming to represent low-income groups, have argued that an increase in VAT places an undue burden on low-income groups. This would make it regressive.

    Based on work as an academic economist over the past three decades, I believe that the debate has been based largely on conjecture and ideological opposition to VAT, rather than on the evidence of its impact.

    This is a pity as there is empirical evidence rooted in research that a VAT increase is, in fact, not regressive and is therefore a good policy decision.

    Tax experts usually refer to the three Es in taxes – equity, efficiency and ease of administration – for evaluating tax policy proposals. New taxes should ideally promote equity (they should be progressive and not regressive), be efficient and be easy to administer.

    An increase in VAT in South Africa ticks all these boxes.

    First, contrary to what many commentators have been arguing, VAT isn’t always regressive – it depends on how it’s implemented. As proposed by the finance minister it would not be regressive because, while it would add to the burden of low-income households, most of the VAT would be collected from higher-income households. Added to this is that the proposed expansion of the existing list of zero-rated items would protect the lowest-income households.

    Second, VAT is a very efficient tax. For relatively low increases in the rate, government is able to raise a large amount of revenue.

    Finally, the system is easy to administer and adds very little cost to collection.

    Key to its efficacy is the way VAT is implemented, including the choice of products to zero rate, and the political credibility of government.

    The case for a VAT increase

    VAT is a consumption tax, so it only affects the income that a household consumes.

    According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), VAT is now the mainstay of tax systems in over 160 countries, raising on average one-third of total government revenues.

    In theory, there are good reasons to be concerned about the impact of VAT. First, it can place a high burden on low-income households because they spend a large proportion of their incomes on consumption goods such as food.

    Second, VAT may also place a heavy burden of tax on women. In South Africa and many other countries, women-led households tend to be clustered in the lower end of the income distribution. And women disproportionately take responsibility for feeding and caring for family members.

    So, at least in theory, VAT is a regressive tax. But is it really so in practice?

    Three studies that have explored this issue in some detail have concluded that, in South Africa, VAT is not regressive.

    In 2008, I worked with colleagues in eight countries (South Africa, Ghana, Uganda, Morocco, Mexico, Argentina, India and the United Kingdom) on the gender issues related to tax. In particular we looked at the burden of VAT on low-income and women-headed households.

    Our findings were that, in general, VAT is regressive and discriminates against women, but it depends on how it is implemented.

    In South Africa, the zero-rating of basic consumption goods is very effective, protecting low-income and female-headed households from VAT. It’s an example of a VAT system that is neutral – neither regressive nor progressive.

    A more recent study by South African economist Ingrid Woolard and colleagues reached a similar conclusion in 2018.

    A third study was done in the same year when VAT was increased from 14% to 15%. Following a similar emotive debate, the finance minister appointed an independent committee which I served on and which was chaired by Woolard, to advise on further zero-rating.

    Our conclusion – again – was that zero-rating is highly effective at protecting low-income groups from the deleterious effects of VAT.

    How it’s done matters

    The challenge with zero-rating is that while low-income households benefit, high-income households benefit more (because they spend more, in absolute terms, on zero-rated goods). Large amounts of potential VAT revenue are lost to high-income groups that don’t need protection.

    The trick is to find a basket of goods that low-income households consume a lot of, but which high-income households don’t consume in large quantities. Some typical examples are beans, canned pilchards and cabbage. These are all goods that low-income households consume and high-income households do not.

    National Treasury’s proposals for increasing the basket of goods to be zero-rated are based on solid research.

    A good example of the trade-offs to consider is the case of chicken. Chicken is an important source of protein for low-income households, but also for high-income households. So, if all chicken were zero-rated, this would protect poor households, but a large amount of VAT revenue would be lost.

    In our 2018 zero-rating report, at 2018 prices and consumption patterns, we calculated that zero-rating all chicken products would be equivalent to R1.3 billion (US$67.6 million) but government would lose R4.6 billion (US$244.4 million) to high income households.

    Not a good trade-off.

    However, some chicken products, such as chicken heads and feet, are mostly consumed by low-income groups, and are therefore good candidates for zero-rating.

    The two other Es – efficiency and ease of administration – of taxes are also key to consider.

    On these two considerations, VAT has big advantages.

    It’s very difficult to avoid or evade VAT because it’s collected along the chain of production. There’s evidence that South Africa has very little leakage in the system.

    So it is relatively easy to increase the VAT rate without needing to invest additional resources to collect the tax.

    Credibility is key

    Apart from the economic considerations, tax policy has to be politically credible. People should believe that their tax contributions are being used effectively, and government should be seen to be acting in line with this.

    If people don’t believe in government’s ability to spend wisely, resistance to taxes increases. Then tax avoidance and evasion increases.

    It would be fair to say that, with the high levels of corruption in South Africa’s political system, government’s credibility is low.

    Thus, if VAT is to be increased, government has to do a lot more to improve its credibility and reassure South Africans that the tax revenues will be well spent.

    Imraan Valodia receives funding from a number of foundations and governments that support academic research.

    – ref. VAT hikes can raise tax without hurting the poor: an economist sets out the evidence – https://theconversation.com/vat-hikes-can-raise-tax-without-hurting-the-poor-an-economist-sets-out-the-evidence-254213

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Could Trump be leading the world into recession?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Steve Schifferes, Honorary Research Fellow, City Political Economy Research Centre, City St George’s, University of London

    Carolyn Franks/Shutterstock

    Growth forecasts for the US and other advanced economies have been sharply downgraded by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in the wake of dramatic swings in US president Donald Trump’s economic policy. But could the uncertainty and the turmoil in financial markets eventually be enough to push the world into a recession?

    The IMF says that global growth has already been hit by the decline in business and consumer confidence as “major policy shifts” by the US unfold. These are leading to less spending and less investment.

    It also predicts further damage from the disruption in global supply chains and inflation caused by tariff increases.

    But while the IMF forecasts a sharp reduction in world economic growth in 2025 and 2026, it is not projecting a recession – for now. However, it says the chances of a global recession have risen sharply from 17% to 30%. And there is now a 40% chance of a recession in the US.

    The head of the IMF, Kristalina Georgieva, has blamed the slowdown on the ongoing “reboot of the global trading system” by the US. She said this is leading to downgrades in growth estimates, while volatility in financial markets is “up” and trade policy uncertainty is “literally off the charts”.

    As part of the IMF forecasts, growth projections for the world’s richest countries in 2025 have been sharply reduced. In the US it is down 0.5% to just 1.8%, while growth in the euro area is projected to be just 0.8%. Japan will be growing by even less at 0.6%. Germany – the EU’s largest economy – is projected to have no growth at all.

    And for the UK, growth has been cut by 0.5%, to a very weak 1.1%, which is in line with forecasts from March. This is well below the 2% projected at the time of the last budget in the autumn. And despite the adjustments made in the UK’s spring statement, the downgrade is likely to mean more tax increases, spending cuts, or both.

    Some developing countries are doing much better, with India projected to have one of the highest annual GDP growth rates at 6.2% in 2025. Meanwhile, China’s growth forecast has been cut sharply due to the effect of US tariffs. It is now projected by the IMF to be down by 1.3% to just 4%.

    Other poorer developing countries will also be negatively affected, but most will continue to grow at a faster pace than major industrial nations.

    What the forecast underscores is that the era of rapid globalisation, spurred by trade and integration of financial markets, seems to be coming to an end.

    Its rapid spread since the 1950s, which accelerated in the 1980s, led to a huge expansion of the world economy. But it created winners and losers, both between nations and within them.

    The Trump administration’s answer to this is massive tariff increases
    hitting countries that stand accused of “ripping off America”. The tariffs have several contradictory objectives, including raising money pay for tax cuts; acting as a bargaining chip to open foreign markets to American goods; and encouraging manufacturers to relocate to the US.

    Trump has swung between these objectives, and backed down when market reaction became too fierce. These swings have destabilised trade and investment, as well as business and consumer confidence.



    Read more:
    Trump has shown he will backtrack on tariffs. What does that say about how to wage a trade war?

    Tariffs do not change the fact that many countries can produce the goods Americans want, more cheaply and often more efficiently. And the looming trade war could mean US exporters are hit with retaliatory tariffs, making it even harder to sell American goods abroad.

    The inflationary effect of tariffs – raising the price of imported goods – could reverse the recent successes of central banks in taming inflation. It could even force them to raise interest rates – something Trump is fiercely against.

    A more immediate effect of Trump’s erratic policy-making has been turmoil in financial markets. The US stock market has fallen sharply since Trump announced his tariff plan, currently down by nearly 15% (a loss of more than US$4 trillion (£2.99 trillion) for shareholders).

    This matters for the US economy, as most Americans depend on their stock market holdings to pay for their defined-contribution pensions. But even more worrying is the effect on the US Treasury bond market, which has been a safe haven in times of trouble. Foreign investors are now shunning US bonds, driving up interest rates for US government debt and unsettling financial institutions.

    Added to the problem is the sharp drop in the value of the US dollar. Trump says he wants a weaker dollar, presumably to make US exports cheaper. But it also raises the price of imported goods and could fuel inflation. Ultimately, it could threaten the role of the US dollar as the world’s reserve currency.

    Potentially, big swings in normally steady financial markets can presage some of the same wobbles that led to the global financial crisis of 2008. That crisis threatened the solvency of the global financial system – although we have not reached that point yet.

    Winners and losers

    So what is the most likely outcome of the trade war, and the loss of a single hegemonic economic power? One example is what happened when Britain lost its dominant role in manufacturing and finance after the first world war.

    Attempts at rebuilding a global economic order failed, and other major countries (led by Germany and the US) reverted to autarky, stepping back from the international trading system and worsening the Depression of the 1930s.

    Just as Trump is trying to do, countries reverted to competitive devaluations. Each tried to make its exports cheaper than those of its rivals, ultimately to no avail. The world was divided into rival trading blocs, and it is conceivable that the US, the EU and China could form three such blocs in future.

    The last financial crisis, in 2008, was mitigated by prompt and cooperative action
    by central banks and governments. They injected trillions to stabilise the financial sector, but even now the damaging effects of this crisis on national growth rates is plain to see.

    The IMF has made it clear that it is not just the detail of the tariffs, but erratic US economic policy, that is the main culprit for the potential recession. The rising cost of servicing US debt as investors lose confidence is also raising the cost of the large public debts of other advanced economies, including the UK. This puts more pressure on public spending.

    Let’s hope that whatever the turmoil, we will not be repeating the mistakes of the past.

    Steve Schifferes does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Could Trump be leading the world into recession? – https://theconversation.com/could-trump-be-leading-the-world-into-recession-255081

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: VAT hikes can raise tax without hurting the poor: an economist sets out the evidence

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Imraan Valodia, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Climate, Sustainability and Inequality and Director, Southern Centre for Inequality Studies, University of the Witwatersrand

    South Africa’s 2025-6 budget has been subjected to more comment than usual. This is due to the political tensions generated by a proposed increase in value added tax (VAT).

    South Africa’s choices on how it manages the revenue and expenditure issues in the budget are critical for how the larger issues of the country’s debt and its economic policies are handled. As things stand, the economy is locked into a low-growth trajectory which make the debt, revenue and expenditure issues more difficult to deal with.

    This piece draws on a longer article which explores these issues in greater detail. Here, I focus only on the VAT issue.

    The finance minister originally tabled an increase of 2 percentage points, then changed it to 0.5 percentage points. Still, it is threatening to end the country’s government of national unity, which was set up after elections in 2024.

    Read more: South Africa’s finance minister wanted to raise VAT: the pros and cons of a tricky tax

    Most commentators, including the political parties that have opposed the proposal, many academics, and non-governmental organisations claiming to represent low-income groups, have argued that an increase in VAT places an undue burden on low-income groups. This would make it regressive.

    Based on work as an academic economist over the past three decades, I believe that the debate has been based largely on conjecture and ideological opposition to VAT, rather than on the evidence of its impact.

    This is a pity as there is empirical evidence rooted in research that a VAT increase is, in fact, not regressive and is therefore a good policy decision.

    Tax experts usually refer to the three Es in taxes – equity, efficiency and ease of administration – for evaluating tax policy proposals. New taxes should ideally promote equity (they should be progressive and not regressive), be efficient and be easy to administer.

    An increase in VAT in South Africa ticks all these boxes.

    First, contrary to what many commentators have been arguing, VAT isn’t always regressive – it depends on how it’s implemented. As proposed by the finance minister it would not be regressive because, while it would add to the burden of low-income households, most of the VAT would be collected from higher-income households. Added to this is that the proposed expansion of the existing list of zero-rated items would protect the lowest-income households.

    Second, VAT is a very efficient tax. For relatively low increases in the rate, government is able to raise a large amount of revenue.

    Finally, the system is easy to administer and adds very little cost to collection.

    Key to its efficacy is the way VAT is implemented, including the choice of products to zero rate, and the political credibility of government.

    The case for a VAT increase

    VAT is a consumption tax, so it only affects the income that a household consumes.

    According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), VAT is now the mainstay of tax systems in over 160 countries, raising on average one-third of total government revenues.

    In theory, there are good reasons to be concerned about the impact of VAT. First, it can place a high burden on low-income households because they spend a large proportion of their incomes on consumption goods such as food.

    Second, VAT may also place a heavy burden of tax on women. In South Africa and many other countries, women-led households tend to be clustered in the lower end of the income distribution. And women disproportionately take responsibility for feeding and caring for family members.

    So, at least in theory, VAT is a regressive tax. But is it really so in practice?

    Three studies that have explored this issue in some detail have concluded that, in South Africa, VAT is not regressive.

    In 2008, I worked with colleagues in eight countries (South Africa, Ghana, Uganda, Morocco, Mexico, Argentina, India and the United Kingdom) on the gender issues related to tax. In particular we looked at the burden of VAT on low-income and women-headed households.

    Our findings were that, in general, VAT is regressive and discriminates against women, but it depends on how it is implemented.

    In South Africa, the zero-rating of basic consumption goods is very effective, protecting low-income and female-headed households from VAT. It’s an example of a VAT system that is neutral – neither regressive nor progressive.

    A more recent study by South African economist Ingrid Woolard and colleagues reached a similar conclusion in 2018.

    A third study was done in the same year when VAT was increased from 14% to 15%. Following a similar emotive debate, the finance minister appointed an independent committee which I served on and which was chaired by Woolard, to advise on further zero-rating.

    Our conclusion – again – was that zero-rating is highly effective at protecting low-income groups from the deleterious effects of VAT.

    How it’s done matters

    The challenge with zero-rating is that while low-income households benefit, high-income households benefit more (because they spend more, in absolute terms, on zero-rated goods). Large amounts of potential VAT revenue are lost to high-income groups that don’t need protection.

    The trick is to find a basket of goods that low-income households consume a lot of, but which high-income households don’t consume in large quantities. Some typical examples are beans, canned pilchards and cabbage. These are all goods that low-income households consume and high-income households do not.

    National Treasury’s proposals for increasing the basket of goods to be zero-rated are based on solid research.

    A good example of the trade-offs to consider is the case of chicken. Chicken is an important source of protein for low-income households, but also for high-income households. So, if all chicken were zero-rated, this would protect poor households, but a large amount of VAT revenue would be lost.

    In our 2018 zero-rating report, at 2018 prices and consumption patterns, we calculated that zero-rating all chicken products would be equivalent to R1.3 billion (US$67.6 million) but government would lose R4.6 billion (US$244.4 million) to high income households.

    Not a good trade-off.

    However, some chicken products, such as chicken heads and feet, are mostly consumed by low-income groups, and are therefore good candidates for zero-rating.

    The two other Es – efficiency and ease of administration – of taxes are also key to consider.

    On these two considerations, VAT has big advantages.

    It’s very difficult to avoid or evade VAT because it’s collected along the chain of production. There’s evidence that South Africa has very little leakage in the system.

    So it is relatively easy to increase the VAT rate without needing to invest additional resources to collect the tax.

    Credibility is key

    Apart from the economic considerations, tax policy has to be politically credible. People should believe that their tax contributions are being used effectively, and government should be seen to be acting in line with this.

    If people don’t believe in government’s ability to spend wisely, resistance to taxes increases. Then tax avoidance and evasion increases.

    It would be fair to say that, with the high levels of corruption in South Africa’s political system, government’s credibility is low.

    Thus, if VAT is to be increased, government has to do a lot more to improve its credibility and reassure South Africans that the tax revenues will be well spent.

    – VAT hikes can raise tax without hurting the poor: an economist sets out the evidence
    – https://theconversation.com/vat-hikes-can-raise-tax-without-hurting-the-poor-an-economist-sets-out-the-evidence-254213

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Distillate and jet fuel contribute to record U.S. petroleum product exports in 2024

    Source: US Energy Information Administration

    In-brief analysis

    April 23, 2025

    In 2024, U.S. exports of total petroleum products increased to a record 6.6 million barrels per day (b/d) annual average. Annual U.S. petroleum product exports increased by 495,000 b/d as U.S. exports of distillate fuel oil, typically sold as diesel, and jet fuel increased compared with 2023, while exports of total motor gasoline decreased. Imports of major petroleum products, including gasoline, distillate fuel oil, and jet fuel, decreased by 210,000 b/d in 2024 compared with 2023.

    Distillate fuel oil accounts for the largest share of U.S. transportation fuel exports and is the second-largest petroleum export by volume, after propane. Distillate exports increased 182,000 b/d to about 1.30 million b/d in 2024, still less than the annual record of 1.38 million b/d in 2017.

    The largest destination for U.S. distillate exports is Mexico, which accounted for 272,000 b/d (21%) in 2024. Other major destinations included Chile (110,000 b/d), the Netherlands (103,000 b/d), the UK (81,000 b/d), and Peru (74,000 b/d).

    Brazil was the second-largest destination for U.S. distillate exports over the previous 10 years (2014–23), but it only received 41,000 b/d of U.S. exports in 2024. This decrease indirectly reflects sanctions by European countries on Russia’s distillate imports. Brazil increased imports of discounted and displaced distillate from Russia last year, reducing its own imports from the United States. At the same time, major European hubs in the Netherlands and the UK imported significantly more distillate from the United States. The Netherlands imported 103,000 b/d of distillate from the United States in 2024, and UK distillate imports averaged 81,000 b/d. In 2021, the Netherlands imported just 12,000 b/d of U.S. distillate, and the UK imported only 23,000 b/d.

    In 2024, exports of U.S. motor gasoline, including both finished motor gasoline and motor gasoline blending components, totaled 877,000 b/d, or 24,000 b/d less than in 2023. Mexico is the largest destination for U.S. gasoline exports, accounting for more than half of 2024 exports at 495,000 b/d. Other destinations for U.S. gasoline exports are generally concentrated in the Western Hemisphere, such as Guatemala, Colombia, Canada, and Panama—the next-largest destinations by volume in 2024.

    Data source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Petroleum Supply Monthly
    Note: Total motor gasoline exports are calculated as the sum of exports of finished motor gasoline and exports of motor gasoline blending components.

    Jet fuel exports in 2024 increased relative to 2023, rising to a total of 209,000 b/d but remaining below pre-pandemic levels. Major destinations for jet fuel exports are elsewhere in the Americas, and as with the other fuels, Mexico has historically been the largest single destination, constituting 63,000 b/d (30%) of 2024 exports. U.S. annual exports of jet fuel to Mexico were their highest on record last year.

    Principal contributor: Kevin Hack

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New street signs in Westminster honours Queen Elizabeth II’s birthplace | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Westminster City Council have installed new commemorative street signs to recognise the birthplace of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

    Queen Elizabeth II was born on April 21, 1926, at 17 Bruton Street, London and spent her first year at the address. To mark this important connection to Westminster, the council commissioned eight street signs featuring special designs to pay tribute to her late Queen. 

    The design was approved by the Royal Household, ensuring a fitting tribute to Her Late Majesty’s birthplace. The new signs also incorporate one of the late Queen’s favourite flowers, the Lily of the Valley, which featured in her Coronation Bouquet. 

    Cllr Adam Hug, Leader of Westminster City Council, said:  

    “We are proud to unveil these new signs in Bruton Street to commemorate the birthplace of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The tribute marks the late Queen’s connection to our city and highlights the rich heritage we have in Westminster.  

     
    “We hope they inform residents and visitors and serves as a destination for those wishing to pay their respects.” 

    The official unveiling ceremony was attended by local dignitaries including Stuart Shilson LVO DL, Deputy Lord-Lieutenant for the City of Westminster, community leaders, plus Westminster City Council Councillors including the Leader, Cllr Adam Hug, and the Lord Mayor of Westminster.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Former Spode pottery site earmarked for improvement works

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Wednesday, 23rd April 2025

    An historic courtyard area of a former pottery site is being renovated to make it more appealing to workers and visitors.

    Stoke-on-Trent City Council, in partnership with Dog & Bone Group and Spode Museum, wants to carry out the improvements at the Spode site in Stoke.

    The proposals will see the existing green space improved and the remains of the bottle kilns preserved for the future. Other improvements include:

    • New seating incorporating commemorative plaques from various benches around the site
    • Planters
    • Festoon lighting
    • New flags for the flagpoles
    • New interpretation signage for the remains of the bottle kiln

    As part of the improvement project, existing trees and shrubbery will need to be cleared or removed, where necessary, to stop the roots from further damaging the remains of the bottle kiln. A new tree will be planted as a replacement as part of the city’s Centenary celebrations.

    Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, cabinet member for transport, infrastructure and regeneration at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “A lot of progress has already been made at Spode and we remain committed to redeveloping the site further in the future. It is a fantastic place in the middle of Stoke town. Our ambition is to combine the old with the new to create a central hub for creativity and the arts.

    “These latest improvements will create a pleasant environment for workers on the site for workers on the site and visitors to sit and enjoy.”

    Spode is now home to a number of successful businesses and organisations including ACAVA (Association for Cultural Advancement through Visual Art), Spode Museum Trust, Aparthotel, The Quarter restaurant, BCB (British Ceramics Biennial), Lesniak Swann and The Claybody Theatre Group.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dog Exclusion Zones in force from Thursday 1 May

    Source: City of Sunderland

    Residents are being reminded that dog exclusion zones come back in force on Sunderland beaches from the beginning of May.

    The dog exclusion zones apply to Roker beach and to a limited stretch of beach at Seaburn, between 1 May and 30 September.

    These are part of the City Council’s wider Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) which was introduced in 2019 in response to calls from residents for more enforcement action on a range of anti-social behaviour issues from dog fouling to dropping litter. This was renewed in 2024 following extensive public consultation.

    The City Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Transport and Net Zero, Councillor Lindsey Leonard said: “We are proud of our beautiful beaches and want to keep them clean and tidy so everyone can enjoy them.

    “We want to take this opportunity to remind residents about the dog exclusion zones which come into force in May. We have clear signage for these zones at both beaches, as well as information on our website.

    “While most residents are considerate dog owners, there are still some who were in breach of the dog exclusion zones. This resulted in us issuing 21 fixed penalty notices for dogs in the exclusion zones at Roker and Seaburn in 2024.

     “As a council, we take great pride in our beautiful beaches and want everyone to be able to enjoy them. That’s why specific areas of the beach are designated as dog-free zones while the PSPO is in effect.”

    Anyone caught breaching the dog exclusion zones faces a fixed penalty fine of £100.

    For further information on the city’s Public Spaces Protection Order and the area covered by the dog exclusion zone visit www.sunderland.gov.uk/pspo

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Manchester City Council News 23 Apr 2025 St George’s Day Parade returns to Manchester

    Source: City of Manchester

    The St George’s Day Parade, a beloved fixture in Manchester’s event calendar for over 19 years, returns this year with its vibrant celebration of England’s rich heritage and community spirit (27 April).  

    Originating from a grassroots organisation, this true community event has grown to become a popular, family-friendly celebration that showcases the diverse and eclectic idea of what it means to be English.  

    The parade aims to celebrate the nation’s spirit and the country’s achievements, particularly those that embody fairness, community, equality, and hard work.  

    This year’s parade will be held on April 27, starting from Varley Street at 12 noon. To note, although the Manchester Marathon is being held the same day, the two events are not expected to impact each other.  

    The parade will commence at Varley Street, turning left onto Oldham Road (southbound only), and will travel towards the city, crossing over Great Ancoats Street to Oldham Street.  

    It will then turn left on Piccadilly, left on Newton Street, left on Dale Street, right on Lever Street, left on Great Ancoats, right on Oldham (northbound only), right on Butler Street, left on Bradford Road, and finally left back to Varley Street. 

    The parade will feature performers on decorated floats. As in previous years, a cavalcade of up to 300 mopeds will join the parade for part of the route, along with a regal Queen Victoria in a royal carriage, a blue dragon towering at 7ft and an array of community groups across Manchester.  

    The parade is expected to take approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete the route. 

    The event is managed by the St George’s Day Committee with support from Manchester City Council and other partner agencies. 

    Councillor Pat Karney, City Centre Spokesperson, said: “I’m thrilled to see the return of the St George’s Day Parade in our incredible city which serves as a reminder and reflection of our proud heritage. This is a day for families, friends and neighbours to come together to celebrate the true meaning of community.  

    “The parade will be a colourful display of Manchester and our nation’s history, a reminder of our achievements and a proud celebration of our shared, diverse nation. I look forward to seeing thousands of Mancunians come together and I hope to see you there.” 

    Thelma McGrail, Chair of the St George’s Day organising committee, said:  “Manchester’s St George’s Day Parade, celebrating England’s Patron Saint, has been an annual event for the last 19 years, this being the 20th. The parade itself is abundant in diversity, growing each year, uniting all communities. The event receives a huge amount of support before and on the day of the parade with hundreds of participants and thousands of spectators.”

    Proposed road closure timings 

    • Depart Varley Street at 12.00 – Arrive Varley Street 14.15 
    • Varley St from Ridgeway St to Oldham Rd 09.00 – 16.00 
    • Oldham Rd from Varley St to Grt Ancoats 12.00 – 14.30
    • GrtAncoats St from Oldham Rd to Newton St 12.30 – 12.45 
    • (Hold Traffic) • Oldham St from Grt Ancoats to Piccadilly 12.30 – 14.00
    • Piccadilly from Oldham St to Newton St 12.30 – 14.00
    • Newton St from Piccadilly to Grt Ancoats 12.30 – 14.00
    • Dale St from Oldham Rd to Newton St 12.30 – 14.00
    • Lever St from Dale to Great Ancoats Street 12.30 – 14.00
    • Great Ancoats St from Lever St to Oldham Rd 13.30 – 13.45
    • (Hold Traffic) • Oldham Rd from Grt Ancoats St to Butler St 12.30 – 14.00
    • Butler St from Oldham St to Bradford Rd 12.30 – 14.30
    • Bradford Rd from Butler St to Varley St 12.30 – 14.30

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New family hubs launched in Leeds to boost support for those in need of early help

    Source: City of Leeds

    A series of new ‘family hubs’ have been launched across Leeds to bring together a wide range of services for people to access help more easily.

    Leeds City Council has launched seven new hubs to host key support organisations under one roof, aiming to simplify the process for families to reach out for early help on a range of issues. 

    The family hubs build on the success of the council’s community hubs and will be based within these at the following locations:

    • South Leeds: Dewsbury Road and Rothwell
    • West Leeds: Armley and Horsforth
    • East Leeds: Deacon House, Compton Centre, Chapeltown Children’s Centre linked to Reginald Centre.

    The new revamp allows the hubs to provide a single point of contact for families with children from birth up to the age of 18, to access guidance and advice on matters such as mental health, domestic abuse and substance use, one-to-one interventions and parenting groups

    They also provide support up to the age of 25 for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

    The new system will allow professionals to link up and work together more effectively in helping to overcome any difficulties families may be facing.

    Each hub will have a hub manager, social workers, senior family help practitioners and family help workers who can deliver one-to-one support along with signposting to other services.

    As well as creating a more streamlined service for both families and professionals, the innovative transformation has also enabled efficiency savings within the authority of £750k.

    It also adds to the successful cluster arrangements – where partner organisations work together with schools to support vulnerable families – as well as the existing early help hubs, to further bolster support provided across the city.

    The family hubs were recently launched with an event in Leeds Civic Hall, where 200 people from across the sector gathered to celebrate the significant milestone in family support provision.

    Councillor Helen Hayden, Leeds City Council’s executive member for children and families, said: “This is an exciting development across the partnership to provide a more joined-up approach for children and families in need of extra help.

    “Leeds has a continuous commitment to delivering early help provision, recognising the need to support families early in the life of the problem.

    “These new highly efficient hubs will improve the quality of practice and experience of children and families and enable people to have the right conversations with the right services at the right time.

    “Each hub has tailored support offers designed to meet the needs of that area and strengthens our ambition to support families, empower individuals and foster connections to create a brighter future for every family in Leeds.”  

    Anyone can contact the family hub network – both members of the public and professionals –  via a phone number and an email address, to be directed to the appropriate contacts.

    For more information visit https://www.leeds.gov.uk/children-and-families or phone 0113 5350185 or email family.hubs@leeds.gov.uk.

    ENDS

    For media enquiries please contact:

    Leeds City Council communications and marketing,

    Email: communicationsteam@leeds.gov.uk

    Tel: 0113 378 6007

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The All-Russian Student Olympiad in Applied Mechanics is being held at the Polytechnic University

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    The All-Russian Student Olympiad in Applied Mechanics with international participation has started in Saint Petersburg. The event is held with the support of the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia, the Association of Technical Universities and the Federal Educational and Methodological Association in the field of “Mechanical Engineering” at the Advanced Engineering School “Digital Engineering” of Peter the Great Saint Petersburg Polytechnic University (PISh SPbPU).

    The All-Russian Student Olympiad in Applied Mechanics with international participation was held regularly from 1999 to 2020.

    At the opening of the Olympiad in the Technopolis Polytech research building, the participants were greeted in a video message by the Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, Valery Falkov:

    “Dear friends! Welcome to the All-Russian Student Olympiad in Applied Mechanics with International Participation. It is gratifying that after almost a five-year hiatus, we are reviving the platform for interaction between talented students and their mentors. I would like to express special gratitude to the Advanced Engineering School “Digital Engineering”, which organized this meeting within its hospitable walls. The profile of the Olympiad is of particular importance today in the context of strengthening Russia’s ties with its closest foreign partners in the scientific and technological sphere. Mechanics allows us to solve key problems in the creation of technologies and science-intensive products in many industries, including mechanical engineering and engine building, shipbuilding, aircraft manufacturing, medical and biomechanical systems. I am sure that the revival of the Olympiad will become one of the effective tools for supporting talented students. Friends, I wish you fruitful work, success and all the best!”

    In 2025, the main goals of the revived All-Russian Student Olympiad in Applied Mechanics were to improve the academic and extracurricular work of students, develop deeper knowledge in the field of applied mechanics, develop creative activity and independent thinking, identify gifted students and develop human resources.

    Vice-Governor of Saint Petersburg Vladimir Knyaginin conveyed his greetings to the participants, in which he also noted the contribution of Peter the Great Saint Petersburg Polytechnic University and the Advanced Engineering School of SPbPU “Digital Engineering” to the revival and development of the Olympiad: “The All-Russian Student Olympiad in Applied Mechanics is gaining particular relevance not only as a significant event in the personal and professional development of students. It also helps to synchronize watches and unite efforts in achieving common goals of technological development of representatives of the scientific and educational community, industry and government. It is no coincidence that this event is being held at the Advanced Engineering School of SPbPU “Digital Engineering” – one of the leaders of the corresponding federal project, which was previously part of the national project “Science and Universities”, and since 2025 has been implemented within the framework of the new national project “Youth and Children”. I am confident that participation in the Olympiad will give students a positive and useful experience, and it will become an important annual event in the world of training new generation engineers, developing advanced technologies and strengthening the technological leadership of our country. I thank the St. Petersburg Polytechnic for organizing the Olympiad and wish all its participants interesting tasks and success in finding new promising solutions!”

    This year, 29 teams from the Republic of Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Russia are participating in the Olympiad: Moscow, St. Petersburg, Arkhangelsk, Belgorod, Volgograd, Ivanovo, Kaliningrad, Samara, Tver, Tyumen, Chelyabinsk, Yaroslavl regions, Krasnoyarsk Krai, Perm Krai, Khabarovsk Krai.

    “The advanced engineering school of SPbPU “Digital Engineering” has been training personnel for almost three years now, who will form the engineering elite of the country, the so-called engineering special forces. Therefore, the revival of the All-Russian Student Olympiad in Applied Mechanics, which has decades of history behind it, at the site of the SPbPU PISh – a modern and proven method of training engineering personnel in close cooperation with industrial partners – is a bright symbol that reflects the changes that are currently taking place in Russian engineering education in the broadest sense of the word. We see great interest in applied mechanics and potentially in engineering, including because teams from all over the country – from Kaliningrad to Khabarovsk, as well as students from foreign countries – participate in the Olympiad. I want to wish all participants success, and may the smartest win!” — the rector of Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, chairman of the St. Petersburg branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences Andrey Rudskoy announced the start of the Olympiad.

    The All-Russian Student Olympiad in Applied Mechanics with International Participation is held in person and includes two blocks: theoretical and practical. In the theoretical block, participants are offered six problems to solve: three on the strength of materials and three on theoretical mechanics. Each problem will be assessed by an expert jury on a 10-point scale. The topics of the problems on the strength of materials include: tension-compression, bending and complex resistance. On theoretical mechanics: statics, kinematics and dynamics.

    The practical block is a wide range of events that will allow the Olympiad participants to immerse themselves in the world of modern digital engineering. Thus, students will be able to take part in master classes on the use of domestic software packages for solving computer modeling problems from leading Russian vendors of engineering software: APM (STC “APM”), FlowVision (OOO “Tesis”), “Logos” (FSUE “RFNC-VNIIEF”).

    Participants will be able to try their hand at the engineering championship, as well as visit leading high-tech industry enterprises such as Gazprom Neft Scientific and Technical Center and CentroTech-Engineering (part of the management structure of the Fuel Company JSC TVEL of Rosatom State Corporation) and get acquainted with their activities. In addition, Olympiad participants will visit the new laboratories of the Advanced Engineering School of SPbPU. An extensive cultural and entertainment program has been organized for the guests.

    The results of the Olympiad will be announced on April 25, 2025. The Olympiad website is HTTPS: // Applied-Mechanics.ru/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO Deputy Secretary General to visit Montenegro

    Source: NATO

    On 24 and 25 April 2025, the NATO Deputy Secretary General, Ms Radmila Shekerinska, will visit Montenegro.

    On Thursday, the Deputy Secretary General will be in Podgorica, where she will meet the President of Montenegro, Mr Jakov Milatović. She will also visit the Western Balkans Cyber Capacity Centre and the Government Cybersecurity Operations Centre.

    On Friday, Ms Shekerinska will participate in the NATO Youth Summit, taking place in Budva.

    Pictures will be available on the NATO website.

    For more information:

    For general queries: contact the NATO Press Office

    For more information about the 2025 NATO Youth Summit, please check the event’s dedicated media advisory and access the event’s website.

    Follow us on X: @NATO, @DepSecGenNATO and @NATOPress

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 2025 NATO Youth Summit: “Shaping Leaders for a Safer Future”

    Source: NATO

    On 25 April 2025, the NATO Deputy Secretary General, Ms Radmila Shekerinska, will participate in the opening of the NATO Youth Summit. Organised in cooperation with the Atlantic Council of Montenegro, the fifth edition of the NATO Youth Summit will take place in Budva, Montenegro on the 25-26 April 2025. The event brings together young leaders from across NATO member and partner countries.

    Applications for in-person participation in the event have been closed. Registration to participate online is possible on the event’s website. The session with the NATO Deputy Secretary General will be streamed live on the NATO website and the full event will be available on NATO YouTube.

    Media advisory

    10:30 (CEST)  Setting the scene: conversation with the NATO Deputy Secretary General

    Media coverage

    A transcript of the Deputy Secretary General’s remarks, as well as pictures, will be available on the NATO website after the event.

    For more information:

    For general queries: contact the NATO Press Office

    Follow us on X: @NATO, @DepSecGenNATO and @NATOPress

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Devo Announces Partnership with Detecteam to Automate Detection Engineering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Devo Technology, the security data analytics company, today announced its strategic technical partnership with Detecteam, the attack simulation and detection lifecycle management company, to address critical challenges in detection engineering. The partnership combines Devo’s comprehensive threat detection, investigation, and response capabilities with Detecteam’s REFLEX platform to create an integration that continuously validates and improves detection capabilities based on real-world attack scenarios.

    Security teams struggle to create, validate, and deploy threat detections fast enough to keep up with constantly evolving threats. Devo and Detecteam’s integrated solution addresses the challenges of detection engineering by automating the entire detection lifecycle. By implementing real-world attack scenarios and continuous validation, security teams can automatically generate, deploy, and test detections in real time, transforming weeks of manual work into a dynamic, adaptive process.

    “In IDC’s Worldwide Views on SIEM Survey, 34% of respondents reported that needing staff dedicated to SIEM was one of the greatest challenges to using the full capabilities of their SIEM,” said Michelle Abraham, senior research director, security and trust, for IDC. “The Devo and Detecteam partnership reduces that strain by empowering security teams to automate detection engineering without requiring dedicated resources.”

    Partnership delivers automated and continuous detection engineering and validation
    The integrated solution from Devo and Detecteam automates a continuous process of threat intelligence operationalization, automated attack scenario generation, realistic attack simulation, detection evaluation, and detection engineering, delivering:

    • Quick adaptation to emerging threats: Automatically transforms threat intelligence into actionable detections in near real time.
    • Proactive detection validation: Continuously tests Devo detections against real-world attack scenarios to identify and close detection gaps.
    • A solution to bridge expertise gaps: Accelerates detection development and deployment by 95%, reducing the need for scarce and costly expertise.

    “With our joint solution, customers can validate their readiness to face threats and create actionable data and detections in Devo,” said Fred Wilmot, chief executive officer & co-founder of Detecteam. “This partnership removes complexity and manual effort, cutting down critical response time so teams can adapt faster to real-world threats—not just theoretical ones.”

    Devo releases upgraded unified TDIR workflows, accelerating threat response
    Devo also announced new features in the Devo Security Data Platform that empower security teams to work more efficiently and effectively with a unified TDIR workflow. Upgraded features include:

    • Accelerated incident resolution: Customizable case templates and one-click report generation reduce analyst workload and shorten incident response times
    • Rapid automation deployment: Seamlessly share and deploy playbooks across domains, significantly reducing automation setup time for organizations with multiple environments
    • Enhanced custom automation: Create and deploy custom Python scripts to automate complex security tasks, maximizing operational efficiency

    “Security teams are still overwhelmed by alerts, holding them back from proactive detection and investigation,” said Jason Mical, field chief technology officer for Devo. “These platform enhancements, combined with the Detecteam integration, provide security teams with a holistic, automated approach to detections and investigations, reducing the time they spend on repetitive, mundane tasks.”

    To learn more about the partnership between Devo and Detecteam, visit: http://devo.com/devo-and-detecteam-automated-detection-engineering

    Devo is also exhibiting at booth #1249 at the 2025 RSA Conference from April 28 to May 1. To learn more about Devo’s presence at RSAC, visit: https://devo.com/rsac

    About Devo
    Devo Technology delivers a real-time security data platform that serves as the foundation of your security operations and includes data-powered threat detection, automated case management, autonomous investigations and threat hunting. AI and intelligent automation help your SOC work faster and smarter so your team can proactively make the right decisions in real time. Headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, with operations in North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific, Devo is backed by Insight Partners, Georgian, TCV, General Atlantic, Bessemer Venture Partners, Kibo Ventures and Eurazeo.

    About Detecteam
    Detecteam converges continuous Attack Simulation and Detection Behavior Validation into its REFLEX platform, improving detection coverage, quality, and accuracy of customer ecosystems. Detecteam automates testing and validation against emerging threats in minutes, optimizes detection creation and deployment, and maximizes spend on current ecosystem resources and technical talent.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Decisions of Sampo plc’s Annual General Meeting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Sampo plc, stock exchange release, 23 April 2025 at 4:05 pm EEST


    Decisions of Sampo plc’s Annual General Meeting

    The Annual General Meeting of Sampo plc, held today on 23 April 2025, approved all the proposals made to the Annual General Meeting (AGM) by the Board of Directors and its Committees, including distribution of dividend of EUR 0.34 per share for 2024.

    The AGM adopted the financial accounts for 2024 and discharged the members of the Board of Directors and CEO from liability for the financial year ending 31 December 2024. The AGM authorised the Board of Directors to decide on share repurchases.

    Including proxy representatives, there were altogether 1,746,933,448 shares (64.91 per cent of all shares) and 1,750,933,448 votes (64.96 per cent of all votes) in the company represented at the AGM.

    Dividend payment

    The AGM decided to distribute a dividend of EUR 0.34 per share for 2024. The dividend will be paid to the shareholders registered in the company’s shareholders register maintained by Euroclear Finland Oy or VP Securities A/S in Denmark, and to the holders of the Swedish depository receipts (SDRs) registered in the securities depository and settlement register maintained by Euroclear Sweden AB, as at the record date of 25 April 2025.

    The dividend will be paid to the shareholders and holders of the share entitlements on 6 May 2025 and to the SDR holders on 8 May 2025.

    Election and remuneration of the Board members

    The number of Board members was decreased by one to eight members. Christian Clausen, Steve Langan, Risto Murto, Antti Mäkinen, Markus Rauramo, Astrid Stange and Annica Witschard were re-elected for a term continuing until the close of the next Annual General Meeting. Sara Mella was elected as a new member to the Board. Of the previous members, Georg Ehrnrooth and Jannica Fagerholm were not available for re-election.

    At its organisational meeting, the Board elected Antti Mäkinen as Chair and Risto Murto as Vice Chair.

    All Board members have been determined to be independent of the Company and its major shareholders under the rules of the Finnish Corporate Governance Code 2025. The CVs of the Board members are available at www.sampo.com/board.

    The AGM decided on the following annual fees to the members of the Board of Directors until the close of the next AGM:

    • EUR 243,000 for the Chair of the Board (prev. EUR 235,000);
    • EUR 140,000 for the Vice Chair of the Board (prev. EUR 135,000);
    • EUR 108,000 for each member of the Board (prev. EUR 104,000);
    • EUR 30,000 for the Chair of the Audit Committee as an additional annual fee (prev. EUR 29,000); and
    • EUR 6,800 for each member of the Audit Committee as an additional annual fee (prev. EUR 6,600).

    A Board member must acquire Sampo plc A shares at the price paid in public trading with 50 per cent of his/her annual fee after the deduction of taxes, payments and potential statutory social and pension costs. Notwithstanding this, a Board member is not required to purchase any additional Sampo plc A shares if the Board member owns such amount of said shares that their value is equivalent to twice the respective Board member’s gross annual fee. The Company will pay any possible transfer tax related to the acquisition of the shares.

    Election and remuneration of the auditor and of the Sustainability Reporting Assurer Provider

    The Authorised Public Accountant Firm and Authorised Sustainability Audit Firm Deloitte Ltd was re-elected as the Company’s auditor and Sustainability Reporting Assurance Provider for the financial year 2025. APA ASA Jukka Vattulainen will continue as the auditor with principal responsibility and the principal authorised sustainability auditor. Company’s Auditor and the Sustainability Reporting Assurance Provider will be paid compensation against invoices approved by the Company.

    Remuneration Report for Governing Bodies

    Sampo’s Remuneration Report for Governing Bodies was adopted through an advisory resolution.

    Authorisation on share repurchases

    The AGM authorised the Board to resolve to repurchase, on one or several occasions, a maximum of 250,000,000 Sampo plc A shares. The maximum number of shares represents approximately 9.29 per cent of all outstanding A shares of the company. The repurchased shares will be cancelled.

    The authorisation will be valid until the close of the next AGM, however, no longer than 18 months from the AGM’s decision.

    AGM materials

    The proposals approved by the AGM are available in their entirety at Sampo’s website at www.sampo.com/agm. The Remuneration Report for Governing Bodies is available at www.sampo.com/year2024.

    The minutes of the Annual General Meeting will be available for viewing at www.sampo.com/agm and at Sampo plc’s head office at Fabianinkatu 27, Helsinki, Finland, by the end of 7 May 2025.

    SAMPO PLC

    For further information, please contact:

    Sami Taipalus
    Head of Investor Relations
    tel. +358 10 516 0030

    Maria Silander
    Communications Manager, Media Relations
    tel. +358 10 516 0031

    Distribution:
    Nasdaq Helsinki
    Nasdaq Stockholm
    Nasdaq Copenhagen
    London Stock Exchange
    FIN-FSA
    The principal media
    www.sampo.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Law Library Publishes New Report, “Minimum Wages for Seafarers on Foreign-Registered Vessels”

    Source: US Global Legal Monitor

    The staff of the Global Legal Research Directorate of the Law Library of Congress has recently completed a comparative report examining the laws of countries around the globe to identify those that have adopted specific requirements regarding foreign seafarers’ wages. Out of 84 jurisdictions surveyed, only four, Australia, France, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom, passed legislation affecting foreign seafarers’ wages, with Norway having pending legislation.

    According to the report, Minimum Wages for Seafarers on Foreign-Registered Vessels, the implementation of wage requirements in the countries identified was conditioned upon certain geographical requirements and/or the existence of a nexus between the government and the vessel’s operating service in terms of the number of landings in the country’s ports or between the seafarer and the country.

    The report contains individual country surveys of the scope of application and the type of required wages in the countries where wage requirements for seafarers on foreign-registered vessels exist. In addition, the report contains information on recommended international law standards and a table summarizing the findings and providing citations to laws and pending legislation.

    We invite you to review the information provided in our report, here.

    The report is an addition to the Law Library’s Legal Reports (Publications of the Law Library of Congress) collection, which includes over 4,000 historical and contemporary legal reports covering a variety of jurisdictions, researched and written by foreign law specialists with expertise in each area. To receive alerts when new reports are published, you can subscribe to email updates and the RSS feed for Law Library Reports (click the “subscribe” button on the Law Library’s website). The Law Library also regularly publishes articles related to wages and hours in the Global Legal Monitor.

    Subscribe to In Custodia Legis – it’s free! – to receive interesting posts drawn from the Law Library of Congress’s vast collections and our staff’s expertise in U.S., foreign, and international law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: XCHG Limited Files 2024 Annual Report on Form 20-F

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HAMBURG, Germany, April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — XCHG Limited (“XCharge” or the “Company”), (NASDAQ: XCH), a global leader in integrated EV charging solutions, today announced that it filed its annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on April 23, 2025. The annual report, which contains the Company’s audited consolidated statements, can be accessed on the SEC’s website at https://www.sec.gov and on XCharge’s investor relations website at https://investors.xcharge.com/.

    The Company will provide a hard copy of its annual report, free of charge, to its shareholders and ADS holders upon request. Requests should be directed to ir@xcharge.com or Investor Relations Department at XCHG Limited, XCharge Europe GmbH, Heselstücken 18, 22453 Hamburg, Germany.

    About XCharge

    XCharge (NASDAQ: XCH), founded in 2015, is a global leader in integrated EV charging solutions. The company offers comprehensive EV charging solutions, which primarily include DC fast chargers and advanced battery-integrated DC fast chargers as well as their accompanying services. Through the combination of XCharge’s proprietary charging technology, energy storage system technology and accompanying services, the Company enhances EV charging efficiency and unlocks the value of energy storage and management. Committed to providing innovative and efficient EV charging solutions, XCharge is actively working toward establishing a global green future that is critical to long-term growth and development.

    For more information, please visit: https://investors.xcharge.com/

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

    XCharge
    IR Department
    Email: ir@xcharge.com

    Piacente Financial Communications
    Brandi Piacente
    Tel: +1-212-481-2050
    Jenny Cai
    Tel: +86 (10) 6508-0677
    Email: XCharge@tpg-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Volta Finance Limited – Net Asset Value(s) as at 31 March 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Volta Finance Limited (VTA / VTAS)
    March 2025 monthly report

    NOT FOR RELEASE, DISTRIBUTION, OR PUBLICATION, IN WHOLE OR PART, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES

    Guernsey, April 23rd, 2025

    AXA IM has published the Volta Finance Limited (the “Company” or “Volta Finance” or “Volta”) monthly report for March 2025. The full report is attached to this release and will be available on Volta’s website shortly (www.voltafinance.com).

    Performance and Portfolio Activity

    Dear Investors,

    Volta Finance’s net performance for the month of March was negative -2.9%, taking the Aug 2024-to-date performance at +9.7%. Both our investments in CLO Debt and CLO Equity were impacted by the broader volatility and risk repricing across global markets. In line with its dividend policy, Volta declared a 15.5c quarterly dividend through the month.

    CLO markets exhibited classic cyclical patterns characterized by spread tightening in January followed by some widening towards the end of the Quarter. However, market movements in March extended beyond typical seasonal dynamics as geopolitical tensions and uncertainties surrounding President Trump’s trade policies had a significant impact. The announcement of tariffs targeting Canada, Mexico and increased levies on China in February shook Equity markets across the globe and triggered a general repricing of risk. March saw additional tariff threats hinting towards a total revamp of US trade agreements in the making. Major Equity indices sold off, with pressures on technology, automotive and consumer discretionary sectors notably. These announcements overshadowed positive news on the inflation front (cooling PCE), while the Fed maintained its key rate on March 19. Lower GDP growth projections were on everybody’s mind, while markets were left in limbo ahead of the tariff announcements of the US administration due to take place on April 2nd.

    It was no surprise to see Credit markets repricing in March as well: the European High Yield index (Xover) closed around 40bps wider at 328bps. In the loan market, Euro Loans dropped c. 1pt to about 97.80px (Morningstar European Leveraged Loan Index) while US Loans felt by 85cts down to 96.30px. The primary CLO market remained active as many transactions were executed, although levels moved wider across the capital structure, notably BBs towards +600bps (from +475bps context). In terms of performance, BBs had a total return of -1.5%, US High Yield returned -1.07% and Euro High Yield were down by -1%.

    Looking at Volta Finance’s cashflow, the portfolio generated c. €28m equivalent of interests and coupons over the last six months, representing c.21% of February’s NAV on an annualized basis. Over the month, Volta’s CLO Equity tranches returned -4.3%** while CLO Debt tranches returned -0.5% performance**, cash representing c. 10% of the NAV.

    Volta is around 21% exposed to USD, the March currency moves having a meaningful impact on the overall funds’ performance (-0.94%).

    As of end of March 2025, Volta’s NAV was €269.6m, i.e. €7.37 per share.

    *It should be noted that approximately 0.29% of Volta’s GAV comprises investments for which the relevant NAVs as at the month-end date are normally available only after Volta’s NAV has already been published. Volta’s policy is to publish its NAV on as timely a basis as possible to provide shareholders with Volta’s appropriately up-to-date NAV information. Consequently, such investments are valued using the most recently available NAV for each fund or quoted price for such subordinated notes. The most recently available fund NAV or quoted price was 0.18% as at 28 February 2025, 0.11% as at 30 September 2024.

    ** “performances” of asset classes are calculated as the Dietz-performance of the assets in each bucket, taking into account the Mark-to-Market of the assets at period ends, payments received from the assets over the period, and ignoring changes in cross-currency rates. Nevertheless, some residual currency effects could impact the aggregate value of the portfolio when aggregating each bucket.

    CONTACTS

    For the Investment Manager
    AXA Investment Managers Paris
    François Touati
    francois.touati@axa-im.com
    +33 (0) 1 44 45 80 22

    Olivier Pons
    Olivier.pons@axa-im.com
    +33 (0) 1 44 45 87 30

    Company Secretary and Administrator
    BNP Paribas S.A, Guernsey Branch
    guernsey.bp2s.volta.cosec@bnpparibas.com 
    +44 (0) 1481 750 853

    Corporate Broker
    Cavendish Securities plc
    Andrew Worne
    Daniel Balabanoff
    +44 (0) 20 7397 8900

    *****
    ABOUT VOLTA FINANCE LIMITED

    Volta Finance Limited is incorporated in Guernsey under The Companies (Guernsey) Law, 2008 (as amended) and listed on Euronext Amsterdam and the London Stock Exchange’s Main Market for listed securities. Volta’s home member state for the purposes of the EU Transparency Directive is the Netherlands. As such, Volta is subject to regulation and supervision by the AFM, being the regulator for financial markets in the Netherlands.

    Volta’s Investment objectives are to preserve its capital across the credit cycle and to provide a stable stream of income to its Shareholders through dividends that it expects to distribute on a quarterly basis. The Company currently seeks to achieve its investment objectives by pursuing exposure predominantly to CLO’s and similar asset classes. A more diversified investment strategy across structured finance assets may be pursued opportunistically. The Company has appointed AXA Investment Managers Paris an investment management company with a division specialised in structured credit, for the investment management of all its assets.

    *****

    ABOUT AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS
    AXA Investment Managers (AXA IM) is a multi-expert asset management company within the AXA Group, a global leader in financial protection and wealth management. AXA IM is one of the largest European-based asset managers with 2,800 professionals and €859 billion in assets under management as of the end of June 2024.  

    *****

    This press release is published by AXA Investment Managers Paris (“AXA IM”), in its capacity as alternative investment fund manager (within the meaning of Directive 2011/61/EU, the “AIFM Directive”) of Volta Finance Limited (the “Volta Finance”) whose portfolio is managed by AXA IM.

    This press release is for information only and does not constitute an invitation or inducement to acquire shares in Volta Finance. Its circulation may be prohibited in certain jurisdictions and no recipient may circulate copies of this document in breach of such limitations or restrictions. This document is not an offer for sale of the securities referred to herein in the United States or to persons who are “U.S. persons” for purposes of Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), or otherwise in circumstances where such offer would be restricted by applicable law. Such securities may not be sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration from the Securities Act. Volta Finance does not intend to register any portion of the offer of such securities in the United States or to conduct a public offering of such securities in the United States.

    *****

    This communication is only being distributed to and is only directed at (i) persons who are outside the United Kingdom or (ii) investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the “Order”) or (iii) high net worth companies, and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as “relevant persons”). The securities referred to herein are only available to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such securities will be engaged in only with, relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on this document or any of its contents. Past performance cannot be relied on as a guide to future performance.

    *****
    This press release contains statements that are, or may deemed to be, “forward-looking statements”. These forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the terms “believes”, “anticipated”, “expects”, “intends”, “is/are expected”, “may”, “will” or “should”. They include the statements regarding the level of the dividend, the current market context and its impact on the long-term return of Volta Finance’s investments. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and readers are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Volta Finance’s actual results, portfolio composition and performance may differ materially from the impression created by the forward-looking statements. AXA IM does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking statements.

    Any target information is based on certain assumptions as to future events which may not prove to be realised. Due to the uncertainty surrounding these future events, the targets are not intended to be and should not be regarded as profits or earnings or any other type of forecasts. There can be no assurance that any of these targets will be achieved. In addition, no assurance can be given that the investment objective will be achieved.

    The figures provided that relate to past months or years and past performance cannot be relied on as a guide to future performance or construed as a reliable indicator as to future performance. Throughout this review, the citation of specific trades or strategies is intended to illustrate some of the investment methodologies and philosophies of Volta Finance, as implemented by AXA IM. The historical success or AXA IM’s belief in the future success, of any of these trades or strategies is not indicative of, and has no bearing on, future results.

    The valuation of financial assets can vary significantly from the prices that the AXA IM could obtain if it sought to liquidate the positions on behalf of the Volta Finance due to market conditions and general economic environment. Such valuations do not constitute a fairness or similar opinion and should not be regarded as such.

    Editor: AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS PARIS, a company incorporated under the laws of France, having its registered office located at Tour Majunga, 6, Place de la Pyramide – 92800 Puteaux. AXA IMP is authorized by the Autorité des Marchés Financiers under registration number GP92008 as an alternative investment fund manager within the meaning of the AIFM Directive.

    *****

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sobyanin told how the hotline helps passengers of Moscow transport

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The hotline of the Moscow Transport contact center is turning 12 years old. During this time, specialists have received almost 40 million calls, the telegram channel Sergei Sobyanin.

    The hotline is one of the most popular and convenient services for solving any questions about transport. Most often, residents and visitors of the capital call the number: 7 495 539-54-54 or 3210 (from a mobile phone) to clarify the schedule of public transport and the operating hours of railway stations, to find out about the evacuation of a car, as well as the procedure for paying for parking and their location. In addition, Muscovites ask how to return things lost during a trip, and find out the details of paying for travel on transport.

    “For example, in 2024, passengers contacted the contact center almost 200 thousand times on the topic of lost things, about 100 thousand questions were asked about the work of the Troika and the ticket system. Contact center operators consult city residents around the clock and process an average of 6.6 thousand calls per day,” the Moscow Mayor noted.

    Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @Mos_Sobyanin 

    Since 2019, the hotline has been using artificial intelligence: a voice assistant answers questions about vehicle evacuation.

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

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/12651050/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: MOFA response to Dutch House of Representatives passing four Taiwan-friendly motions

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    MOFA response to Dutch House of Representatives passing four Taiwan-friendly motions

    • Date：2025-04-16
    • Data Source：Department of European Affairs

    April 16, 2025  

    The House of Representatives of the Netherlands on April 15 adopted four Taiwan-friendly motions, urging the Dutch government to oppose China’s escalation of tensions, strengthen trade relations with Taiwan, send a high-level official delegation to Taiwan, and support Taiwan’s meaningful participation in the World Health Organization. The motions were proposed by House members from different parties, including Representative Jan Paternotte of Democrats 66, who is also cochair of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China for the Netherlands. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) sincerely welcomes and appreciates the high level of consensus that Dutch parliamentarians have shown in their support for Taiwan.

    The Dutch House of Representatives simultaneously passed four motions calling on the Dutch government to take a number of concrete actions to support Taiwan. It encouraged the government to oppose China’s launch of large-scale military exercises around Taiwan; attach great importance to cross-strait peace and send another warship through the Taiwan Strait; assist Taiwan in responding to the United States’ tariff policy and enhance economic and trade exchanges with Taiwan; promote high-level official visits between Taiwan and the Netherlands; and explicitly voice support for Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Assembly and other events. These motions concern Taiwan’s core interests and are therefore of great significance.

    Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung recognizes that Taiwan and the Netherlands have forged an increasingly close relationship, that support for Taiwan in the Dutch parliament has grown steadily year after year, and that the Netherlands is an important partner in the promotion of President Lai Ching-te’s Five Trusted Industry Sectors. Taiwan looks forward to engaging in further cooperation with the Netherlands in such critical domains as strengthening resilience of the semiconductor supply chain, security control and information security, and next-generation communications.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: Credit Agricole Sa: ORDINARY AND EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING OF CRÉDIT AGRICOLE S.A. OF 14 May 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Montrouge, 23 April 2025

    ORDINARY AND EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING
    OF CRÉDIT AGRICOLE S.A. OF 14 May 2025

    Publication of the Notice of Meeting – Opening of the vote –
    Procedures for making the preparatory documents available

    Crédit Agricole S.A. informs its shareholders that its Ordinary and Extraordinary General Meeting will be held on Wednesday, 14 May 2025 at 9.30 am in Paris (75005), France, at Maison de la Mutualité, 24 rue Saint-Victor.

    A Notice of Meeting, including in particular the agenda and the draft resolutions, was published in the French bulletin of mandatory legal announcements (Bulletin des Annonces Légales Obligatoires) No. 35 of 21 March 2025.

    All of the matters relating to this General Meeting are made available to shareholders in accordance with the regulations and legislation in force.

    In particular:

    • the information and documents referred to specifically in Article R. 22-10-23 of the French Commercial Code (Code de Commerce), as well as the Notice of Meeting for the Ordinary and Extraordinary General Meeting, are available on the Crédit Agricole S.A. website at:

    https://www.credit-agricole.com/en/finance/individual-shareholders/annual-general-meeting

    • by means of the Notice of Meeting, all shareholders may:
      • familiarise themselves with the documents referred to in Article R. 225-83 of the French Commercial Code (Code de Commerce) at the Company registered office; and
      • up until 10 May 2025 inclusive, request that the Company sends them these documents, it being specified that in order for holders of bearer shares to exercise this right, they must provide a certificate of shareholding for the bearer share accounts held by the authorised intermediary.

    Online voting is open between 23 April 2025 12.00 pm (midday, Paris time) until 13 May 2025 3.00 pm (Paris time). The paper forms must be received by Uptevia no later than 11 May 2025.

    The General Meeting will be broadcast live online via the section relating to the General Meeting:
    https://www.credit-agricole.com/en/finance/individual-shareholders/annual-general-meeting.
    Crédit Agricole S.A. press contacts
    Alexandre Barat : +33 1 57 72 45 73 – alexandre.barat@credit-agricole-sa.fr
    Olivier Tassain : +33 1 43 23 25 41 – olivier.tassain@credit-agricole-sa.fr

    All our press releases can be found at: https://www.credit-agricole.com/en

    Customer Relations contacts – individual shareholders
    Freephone: 0,800,000,777
    credit-agricole-sa@relations-actionnaires.com

    Customer Relations contacts – registered shareholders
    + 33 1 57 78 34 31
    ct-contactcasa@uptevia.com

    Customer Relations contacts – institutional investors
    + 33 1 43 23 04 31
    investor.relations@credit-agricole-sa.fr

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens challenge “con artist” Farage to climate TV debate

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    / by Green Party

    Responding to Nigel Farage’s comments on Radio 4’s Today Programme where he refused to accept that carbon emissions are leading to climate change, Green Party Co-Leader, Adrian Ramsay MP, hit back saying: 

    “Nigel Farage is a performer, a con artist. He will say or do anything. He will happily dance to a populist tune regardless of its impact. Let’s not forget he’s bankrolled by fossil fuel interests, climate deniers, and major polluters—taking in £2.3 million since the 2019 election.

    This morning’s performance suggested he hasn’t got the slightest grasp of even the most basic climate science. But I think it’s worse than that. He understands all too well human-made climate change, but he is willing to pretend he doesn’t and stand in the way of climate action for his party’s populist agenda.

    If he really does believe what he says, let’s see if his ridiculous rhetoric stands up to actual scrutiny – let’s see if he is prepared to take part in an hour-long TV debate about climate change and the challenge of reaching net zero?”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Allister tabled motions on Supreme Court ruling on the legal definition of a woman and Omagh Bomb Inquiry

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    TUV leader and North Antrim MP Jim Allister tabled the following motions in the Commons yesterday:

    Supreme Court ruling on legal definition of a woman

    That this House welcomes the Supreme Court judgement of 15 April 2025 that the legal definition of a woman is based on biological sex; and calls on all Government departments, arms length bodies and all operating in the public sphere to ensure their language, definitions, guidance and approach fully accords with the findings of this ruling.

    Omagh Bomb Inquiry

    That this House notes that the Omagh Bomb Inquiry will examine only alleged failings in respect of agencies in the United Kingdom; regrets that there is no parallel inquiry established by the Dublin Government to investigate failings within that state, having regard to the fact the bomb was constructed in the Republic of Ireland and conveyed to Omagh by terrorists from within that state; and further notes with disapproval that the Memorandum of Understanding between the Chairman of the Omagh Bomb Inquiry and the Government of the Republic of Ireland does not ensure compellability of personnel from the Republic nor assure transparency in the handling of any evidence if produced from the Republic.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement on sad passing of Ian Hall

    Source: City of Preston

    23 April 2025

    We are saddened to announce the death of Ian Hall, Honorary Freeman and Alderman of the City who died on Monday 21 April at the age of 98.

    Ian was first elected as a Preston councillor in 1964 and stood down in 2007 after a remarkable 43 years’ service.

    During his long service as councillor, he was twice Mayor of Preston in 1974-5 and 1994-5 and Leader of the Council from 2000 to 2003. He had served in a similar position twice before as Chair of Policy and Resources Committee from 1973-76 and 1980-82.

    He served as a Justice of the Peace from 1969, and Ian had an outstanding record in public service devoting so much of his time to the city and people of Preston.

    Mayor of Preston, Councillor Phil Crowe pays tribute to Honorary Freeman and Alderman, and former Councillor and Mayor, Ian Hall:

    “Ian was a most dedicated and well-respected public servant for Preston. He served on so many committees and bodies and was always striving to improve the lives of his fellow Prestonians.

    “He was heavily involved in the organisation of the Preston Guild of 1992 and the redevelopment work around Preston Docks. He oversaw the transfer of the then Preston Borough Transport Department to Preston Bus, an employee-owned company. His contribution to Preston and its residents cannot be underestimated.

    “I send my condolences, along with those of everyone at Preston City Council, to Ian’s family and friends at this sad time. May he Rest in Peace.”

    More information

    • Ian Hall was first elected to Preston County Borough Council in 1964.
    • He was made an Honorary Freeman of the City May 1992.
    • He was made an Honorary Alderman of the City in 2007 after retiring as a Councillor after 43 years service.
    • We will update with funeral information as this becomes available.

    Share this page

    Print

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Gazelle helicopter to touch down for Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day 23 April 2025 Gazelle helicopter to touch down for Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    Hold onto your hats, folks!

    One of the biggest attractions, both in size and attendance, is making a triumphant return to the Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day.

    Yes, you guessed it — the 679 Squadron, 6 Army Air Corps, is back with their dazzling Gazelle helicopter.

    Event organiser, Ian Dore, said: “The Gazelle presence was a ‘hoofing’ hit last year, and I’m thrilled to say it’s returning.

    “It raised eyebrows on the ferry coming over and was packed throughout the day. It’s not often you get the chance to sit in a genuine army helicopter that has seen active service, so it’s a real treat.

    “For the youngsters, it’s a great bit of kit to play around in, plus of course, it’s selfie central!”

    The Gazelle, known for its agility, first saw action in the Falklands War and later in Northern Ireland, Kosovo, and the first Gulf War.

    Four Gazelles were also part of the Army Air Corps helicopter display team, which in 2001 included the very first British female military display pilot, Sgt Julie Wiles.

    For TV buffs, a Gazelle, similar to this one, featured in the film and television series ‘Blue Thunder’. The helicopter will be stationed on the eastern side of Ryde Superbowl, accompanied by the Army Air Corps Team from 679 Squadron.

    Ian added: “This really is a hands-on attraction and is fully intact. The cyclic, collective, pedals, console, knobs, radios, buttons, dials — they’re all there to get hands-on with.

    “For those of a certain generation, and if ‘Blue Thunder’ wasn’t your cup of tea, you can also hop in and pretend to be Stringfellow Hawke, flying around the Solent in ‘Airwolf’.

    “For youngsters who see flying or air operations as a career, this is as good as it gets on the ground, and we are chuffed to have them back.”

    Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day takes place on Sunday, 29 June at Ryde.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: We invite you to the “Victory Ball” at the State University of Education

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On May 17, 2025, the State University of Management will host a charity “Victory Ball” aimed at strengthening traditional Russian spiritual and moral values among student youth.

    We invite creative groups to join this beautiful and memorable event.

    Pre-registration of participants is required via the link.

    Please dress as close to 1940s fashion as possible. Recommended dress code:

    Ladies: Military uniform of the period 1945, polka dot dresses, crepe de chine and staple dresses in flowers and plain. Possibly a skirt and blouse. Below the knee length. Gloves. On the feet, low-heeled shoes. White socks are possible. Dresses with an open back are not allowed.

    Cavaliers: Military uniform of the 1945 period. Tunic with belt and black classic trousers. Shirts can be white, black, grey, striped, checked. No tie is allowed. If a tie, it should be short, no higher than the middle of the chest. Trousers are wide. Can be black, dark blue, grey, striped, cream, brown. Shoes – boots – black, brown, grey. White gloves are required.

    Master classes on preparing for a masquerade ball are held at the State University of Management every Tuesday from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM.

    Person responsible for the preparation of the event: Deputy Director of the Institute of Distance Education of the State University of Management, Yuri Kozlovsky, tel.: 8(915) 405-38-70.

    The ball will be held at: Ryazansky Prospekt, 99 (Vykhino metro station).

    Event starts at 18:00. Guests will be arriving at 17:00.

    Subscribe to the tg channel “Our State University” Announcement date: 05/17/2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft held a literary patriotic event dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    About 1,000 employees of Rosneft and its subsidiaries in many regions of Russia took part in a collective reading of the famous poem by poet Konstantin Simonov, “Motherland,” as part of events dedicated to the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War.

    Employees of Samotlorneftegaz, one of Rosneft’s key production assets, read the lines from Rodina at the monument to “Soldiers-fellow countrymen who died during the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945” in Nizhnevartovsk and at the Samotlor field production site. The volunteers of the oil company were joined by activists of the “Movement of the First” and students of “Rosneft-classes”. An 80-meter St. George ribbon, symbolizing the Great Victory, was unfurled in Nizhnevartovsk’s Victory Park.

    The patriotic action was joined by employees of 33 major production, oilfield services, refining and marketing enterprises of Rosneft: RN-Yuganskneftegaz, ANK Bashneft, RN-Vankor, Rospan International, Kharampurneftegaz, Kondaneft, RN-Krasnodarneftegaz, Udmurtneft, SevKomNeftegaz, Tyumenneftegaz, RN-Bureniye, Saratov Oil Refinery, Novokuibyshevsk Oil and Additives Plant, Syzran Oil Refinery, Tuapse Oil Refinery, Krasnoleninsk Oil Refinery, Angarsk Polymer Plant, NK Rosneft-Stavropolye, RN-Severo-Zapad, RN-Yaroslavl, RN-Tuapse Marine Terminal, as well as institutes scientific and design complex of the Company, etc.

    Rosneft organizes and actively participates in patriotic events that help strengthen historical memory, foster civic responsibility, and preserve cultural heritage. In honor of the anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, Rosneft employees organize patriotic events, sports competitions, and creative contests aimed at preserving historical memory.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft April 23, 2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –