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Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI: William Connelly, future Societe Generale chairman of the board of directors, starting May 2026

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WILLIAM CONNELLY, FUTURE SOCIETE GENERALE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS, STARTING MAY 2026 

    Press release
    Paris, 10 April 2025

    During its session on 10 April 2025, the Societe Generale Board of Directors selected William Connelly for the Chairmanship as of the General Meeting which will be held on 27 May 2026, subject to his renewal as a Director by the General Meeting on 20 May 2025. He will succeed Lorenzo Bini Smaghi, who has been Chairman since 2015, and will have completed his third term.

    This decision is the result of a selection process led by the Nomination and Corporate Governance Committee at the end of 2023 with the assistance of an independent consultant.

    William Connelly has been a member of Societe Generale’s Board of Directors since 2017. He has chaired the Risk Committee since 2019 and is a member of the Nomination and Corporate Governance Committee, positions he will hold until the 2026 General Meeting.

    Lorenzo Bini Smaghi, Chairman of the Board of Directors, stated: “The choice of William Connelly as my successor confirms Societe Generale’s commitment to the highest standards of governance, both in terms of method and substance. It ensures the independence of the role as well as its continuity, while bringing the highest level of expertise in the international banking and financial sector, along with experience in managing large companies, particularly in the technology sector.”

    Biography
     William Connelly is a company director. In addition to his mandate as an independent director of Societe Generale since 2017, he currently is the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Amadeus IT Group and the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Aegon until the second half of 2025. He also served as an independent director of Singular Bank from February 2019 to April 2023.

    William Connelly began his career in 1980 at Chase Manhattan Bank, where he worked for 10 years, before joining Baring Brothers from 1990 to 1995. He then held various executive positions within ING Group NV from 1995 until he became a member of The Management Board, where he was responsible for Wholesale Banking from 2011 to 2016. He was also the CEO of ING Real Estate from 2009 to 2015. He has gained extensive experience in financial services, particularly in corporate finance, financial markets, real estate, and lending.

    William Connelly is a French citizen. He graduated with a degree in Economics from Georgetown University.

    Press contact:
    Jean-Baptiste Froville_+33 1 58 98 68 00_ jean-baptiste.froville@socgen.com


    Societe Generale
    Societe Generale is a top tier European Bank with around 119,000 employees serving more than 26 million clients in 62 countries across the world. We have been supporting the development of our economies for 160 years, providing our corporate, institutional, and individual clients with a wide array of value-added advisory and financial solutions. Our long-lasting and trusted relationships with the clients, our cutting-edge expertise, our unique innovation, our ESG capabilities and leading franchises are part of our DNA and serve our most essential objective – to deliver sustainable value creation for all our stakeholders.

    The Group runs three complementary sets of businesses, embedding ESG offerings for all its clients:

    • French Retail, Private Banking and Insurance, with leading retail bank SG and insurance franchise, premium private banking services, and the leading digital bank BoursoBank.
    • Global Banking and Investor Solutions, a top tier wholesale bank offering tailored-made solutions with distinctive global leadership in equity derivatives, structured finance and ESG.
    • Mobility, International Retail Banking and Financial Services, comprising well-established universal banks (in Czech Republic, Romania and several African countries), Ayvens (the new ALD I LeasePlan brand), a global player in sustainable mobility, as well as specialized financing activities.

    Committed to building together with its clients a better and sustainable future, Societe Generale aims to be a leading partner in the environmental transition and sustainability overall. The Group is included in the principal socially responsible investment indices: DJSI (Europe), FTSE4Good (Global and Europe), Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index, Refinitiv Diversity and Inclusion Index, Euronext Vigeo (Europe and Eurozone), STOXX Global ESG Leaders indexes, and the MSCI Low Carbon Leaders Index (World and Europe).

    In case of doubt regarding the authenticity of this press release, please go to the end of the Group News page on societegenerale.com website where official Press Releases sent by Societe Generale can be certified using blockchain technology. A link will allow you to check the document’s legitimacy directly on the web page.

    For more information, you can follow us on Twitter/X @societegenerale or visit our website societegenerale.com.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: IADC’s First Geothermal Drilling Conference Draws a Crowd

    Source: International Association of Drilling Contractors – IADC

    Headline: IADC’s First Geothermal Drilling Conference Draws a Crowd

    The inaugural IADC Geothermal Drilling Conference & Exhibition took place 25-26 March in Vienna, Austria. Over 250 attendees showed up to take part in conversations about the future of geothermal drilling. 

    Opening and keynote presentations were given by: 

    • Angelika Zartl-Klik, Senior Vice President Low Carbon Business and Renewable Energy & Bernhard Novotny, Project Director Geothermal, OMV
    • Marit Brommer, Chief Executive Officer, International Geothermal Association
    • Bruce Gatherer, Business Development and Drilling Advisor, Iceland Drilling

    During the event, IADC and the International Geothermal Association signed a new MOU, ensuring future collaboration and further partnership in the advancement of geothermal.

    According to IGA CEO Marit Brommer:

    “To fully unlock geothermal’s potential, we must remove the bottlenecks—and permitting is at the top of the list. With IGA and IADC working side by side, we’re building the trust, alignment, and momentum needed to turn endorsement into action.” 

    Drilling Contractor Interviews from the 2025 IADC Geothermal Drilling Conference

    IADC completes inaugural Geothermal Conference in Vienna

    As an emerging source of renewable energy for the world, geothermal holds vast potential for drilling contractors not only in terms of new applications for existing drilling rigs but also in terms of potential contributions to the world’s carbon emissions reduction efforts.

    At IADC’s first-ever Geothermal Conference, held 25-26 March in Vienna, Austria, DC spoke with Lars Nydahl Jorgensen, IADC Regional Director for Europe and staff liaison for the IADC Geothermal Committee, about geothermal’s value proposition for the global drilling industry, as well as key takeaways from the conference.

    European Geothermal Energy Council: Few “tweaks” needed for geothermal to go mainstream

    While geothermal energy makes up a miniscule slice of the global energy mix today, it holds great potential that’s waiting to be tapped, and Sanjeev Kumar, Head of Policy at the European Geothermal Energy Council, said he believes only a few tweaks are needed to make geothermal go mainstream.

    Speaking with DC, Mr Kumar discussed the regulatory framework that currently exists for geothermal energy, as well as how European policymakers view geothermal versus other renewable energy sources. He also speaks to why “levelized cost of energy” may not be the best metric with which to analyze the potential for geothermal.

    OMV hosts IADC Geothermal Conference attendees at Hydros drilling site in Vienna

    On 27 March, OMV hosted nearly 100 attendees of the IADC Geothermal Conference on a tour of the Hydros geothermal project as it was drilling ahead within the city limits of Vienna, Austria.

    During the tour, DC spoke with Alexander Heger, Head of Well Delivery for OMV, about the status and goals of the pioneering project, as well as OMV’s views on the future of geothermal.

    IADC Geothermal Committee presents Well Classification system, previews Risk Index

    The IADC Geothermal Committee presented its recently launched Geothermal Well Classification at the inaugural Geothermal Conference. Scott Farmer, Committee Chairman and Well Engineering Manager for H&P, spoke with DC during the conference about the three levels of the classification system – project, site and well levels – as well as key feedback that has been received from the industry so far. He also provides a preview of the IADC Geothermal Well Risk Index, a beta version of which is expected to be launched later this year.

    Thank you to everyone who attended, presented, exhibited, sponsored, and organized this conference!

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Malliotakis Introduces Bipartisan Eastern Mediterranean Security Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11)

    (WASHINGTON, D.C.) – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), along with Congressman Thomas Kean (NJ-07), Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), and Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10), introduced the American-Hellenic-Israeli Eastern Mediterranean Counterterrorism and Maritime Security Partnership Act of 2025. This bipartisan bill establishes a security-focused ‘3+1’ framework among the United States, Israel, Greece, and the Republic of Cyprus to enhance counterterrorism and maritime security in the Eastern Mediterranean. 

     

    To enhance security in the Eastern Mediterranean, the bill establishes two cooperative bodies: a parliamentary group and an executive-level group that includes the U.S., Israel, Greece, and Cyprus. Additionally, the bill introduces two security training programs: CERBERUS, which focuses on counterterrorism training at the Cyprus Center for Land, Open-seas, and Port Security, and TRIREME, which provides maritime security training at the Greek Souda Naval Base. 

     

    “I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bipartisan legislation, ” said Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis. “Enhancing cooperation in counterterrorism and maritime security between the United States, Greece, Israel, and Cyprus is vital, and we must continue to strengthen this partnership.” 

     

    “The strategic partnership among the United States, Israel, Greece, and the Republic of Cyprus is a cornerstone of regional stability and international security in the Eastern Mediterranean. This bipartisan effort enhances our collective ability to combat terrorism and further advances America’s long-term interests in defense, strategic cooperation, and the safeguarding of shared democratic values,” said Congressman Tom Kean.

     

    “I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this important piece of bipartisan legislation that seeks to strengthen cooperation with our democratic allies in the Eastern Mediterranean and promote regional security. In an increasingly complex global landscape, this bill reinforces our counterterrorism efforts and ensures that the United States and its allies are better equipped to detect emerging threats and respond swiftly in defense of our shared democratic values,” said Congressman Dan Goldman.

     

    “The American Hellenic Institute has been a longtime advocate of the importance of the “3+1” partnership between Greece, the Republic of Cyprus, Israel, and the United States. “3+1” is a powerful regional cooperation structure that should be utilized to the fullest extent to protect America’s interests, secure its international commerce, and to provide peace, stability, and safety in an area of great geopolitical importance. By initiating this new bill, AHI and congressional leaders on this issue aim to see the “3+1” partnership grow to the next level, especially in terms of security cooperation. AHI will continue its work in Washington, D.C. to push forward the passage of this critical next step,” said the American Hellenic Institute (AHI).

     

    This bill removes restrictions on defense articles and security assistance to the Republic of Cyprus and mandates the development of comprehensive strategies for counterterrorism and maritime security cooperation. It allocates funds for facilities and equipment at the Cyprus Center for Land, Open-Seas, and Port Security, the Greek Souda Naval Base, and all training programs. Additionally, this bill increases IMET funding for all three partner nations. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/KAZAKHSTAN – “We have to be a bit like children”: Sister Irena’s mission in the villages around Almaty

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Thursday, 10 April 2025

    Almaty (Agenzia Fides) – “First saints, then missionaries,” Saint Giuseppe Allamano, founder of the Congregations of the Consolata Missionaries and Missionary Sisters, used to say. And that is the first gift we should ask for every day, says Sister Irena Candida De Alberto Solomone, originally from Africa, who, for three years, has been proclaiming the Gospel with four other sisters in the outskirts of Almaty, Kazakhstan’s most populous city.Kazakhstan, a crossroads of peoples and cultures in the heart of Asia, is a young country, as young as its Catholic community. A small flock (only 1% of the 19 million inhabitants are Catholic) that coexists peacefully with other faith communities (more than 70% of the population is Muslim, and 26% is Orthodox Christian).The current parish in Kazakhstan “is a parish composed primarily of the descendants of immigrants from Europe. But gradually, people born here are also asking to become part of the community”.Sister Irena is originally from Mozambique, where her vocation matured, as she tells Fides: “It is difficult to explain exactly how my vocation was born. Since childhood, when I attended catechism classes and, above all, prepared for the sacrament of Confirmation, I understood that Jesus is a person to be loved. With Confirmation, one becomes an active part of the Church, and every baptized person must assume responsibility. That is why, immediately after my Confirmation, I became a catechist in my parish.”At the time, Irena was 16 years old and had realized that “the Church is the place where one can fully live one’s faith. Like the other girls, I went to school, played basketball, and practiced dancing. But I felt a growing desire to give my life to God. After high school, at the age of 19, I decided to join the Consolata Missionary Sisters. In 1993, at the age of 24, I became a nun.”During these years, Irena also made the decision to go as a missionary “far from home, outside of Mozambique.”The Congregation of the Consolata Missionary Sisters provides for a period of several years before receiving the mandate: “My first destination was Italy, then I received the mandate and was initially destined for the United States of America. I lived there for 17 years.” In 2017, her destination changed: Asia. Sister Irena lived in Afghanistan for several years, then in 2022 she moved to the steppes of Kazakhstan: “I did not expect this. The Congregation’s project is to expand the missions, that is, to spread the Gospel where Christ is not yet known, where the Church is not yet developed.”But what does it mean to proclaim the Gospel in a country where the vast majority of the population belongs to another religion? For Sister Irena, it is “a precious opportunity,” because the charism of the Consolata Missionary Sisters is precisely to “reach those places and people where the Church’s presence is lacking, where there is a need to hear the Good News.””The best attitude,” adds the missionary sister, “is to have an open heart and an open mind. Since arriving here, we have realized that we have to be a bit like children. That means we have to start our lives a little bit anew: from studying the local language to exploring the places and culture of this country. This already leads us to the encounter with the Kazakh people. A people made up of many ethnic groups, but all with open hearts and open minds.” All activities “must take place on the church grounds. But they allow us to keep our facilities open. And that is a blessing in itself.”The community of sisters to which Irena belongs is also multi-ethnic, like the context in which the sisters are called to live their missionary vocation: Sister Irena lives with Sister Claudia from Colombia, Sister Dorota from Poland, and Sister Argentina from Mozambique. They are accompanied by two priests, Father Simon from Poland and Father Ladislaus from Korea.There are a total of seven villages around the city of Almaty where the Consolata Missionary Sisters work. And in Almaty, according to Sister Irena, “the government organizes many interfaith meetings. Father Simon often participates in these events so that we can maintain peaceful relations with everyone.”The Diocese of Almaty covers a total area of 711,600 km² and has 11 parishes. Of the 7,350,240 inhabitants, 42,000 are Catholics (0.6% of the total population). In the village of Janashari, “we have a playground and a facility that can accommodate about 20 people.” And even this playground, where people of other religions come together, becomes a place of encounter and dialogue for us.””And today,” adds the missionary sister, “we have some seminarians who will soon be ordained deacons.” And the veneration of saints or the Virgin Mary “has also begun to spread. That is beautiful, and we are only at the beginning.” (F.B.) (Agenzia Fides, 10/4/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: EIA expects less oil demand and lower oil and gasoline prices in an uncertain market

    Source: US Energy Information Administration

    U.S. ENERGY INFORMATION ADMINISTRATION
    WASHINGTON DC 20585

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    April 10, 2025

    The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) expects recent developments in global trade policy and oil production to contribute to lower global demand growth for petroleum products through 2026, which contributes to significantly lower oil prices than previously forecast.

    In its April Short-Term Energy Outlook (STEO), EIA points out significant uncertainties in energy supply, demand, and prices.

    The STEO is based on current market conditions, and in the first week of April, numerous developments affected the global market—especially oil markets. On April 2, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order announcing a minimum 10% tariff on imports from all countries, which also included higher tariffs on some countries. On April 4, China responded by imposing 34% tariffs on imports from the United States. Amid the tariff announcements, OPEC+ members announced on April 3 that some countries will start oil production increases in May that were originally set for July.

    These announcements caused the Brent crude oil spot price to fall by 12% on April 2 to $68 per barrel on April 4. EIA completed its forecasts on April 7, so the April STEO includes some of the recent changes in the energy market, but the agency expects continued volatility as market participants respond to further developments.

    U.S. energy market indicators 2024 2025 2026
    Brent crude oil spot price (dollars per barrel) $81 $68 $61
    Retail gasoline price (dollars per gallon) $3.30 $3.10 $3.10
    U.S. crude oil production (million barrels per day) 13.2 13.5 13.6
    Natural gas price at Henry Hub (dollars per million British thermal units) $2.20 $4.30 $4.60
    U.S. liquefied natural gas gross exports (billion cubic feet per day) 12 15 16
    Shares of U.S. electricity generation       
    Natural gas 42% 40% 40%
    Coal 16% 16% 15%
    Renewables 23% 25% 27%
    Nuclear 19% 19% 19%
    U.S. GDP (percentage change) 2.8% 2.0% 2.0%
    U.S. CO2 emissions (billion metric tons) 4.8 4.8 4.7
    Data source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Short-Term Energy Outlook, April 2025
    Note: Values in this table are rounded and may not match values in other tables in the STEO.

    Some key highlights from the April STEO include:

    • Global oil supply, demand, and prices: EIA expects continued growth in U.S. and global oil production as OPEC+ accelerates its previously announced production increases and the United States exempts energy from its recently announced tariffs. EIA expects global oil inventories to increase starting in the middle of 2025, but market uncertainty could lead to lower economic growth, which could lead to less growth in demand for petroleum products than EIA had previously forecast. The combination of growing supply and lower demand leads EIA to expect the Brent crude oil price to average less than $70 per barrel in 2025 and fall to an average of just over $60 per barrel in 2026. Those prices are about 10% lower than the March STEO forecast and reflect more uncertainty around global oil demand growth as well the potential for additional supply from OPEC+ in the coming months.
    • Other uncertainties in EIA’s oil price forecasts include existing sanctions on Russia, Iran, and Venezuela, which also could affect oil prices.
    • Gasoline prices: EIA forecasts the U.S. retail price for regular-grade gasoline to average about $3.10 per gallon this summer, mostly because of expected lower crude oil prices. If the forecast holds, this price would be the lowest inflation-adjusted summer average gasoline price since 2020.
    • U.S. propane markets: Among energy products, EIA expects China’s retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods will have the largest effect on propane because China is typically a major importer of U.S. propane. Some propane previously exported to China will likely find new destinations, but EIA expects that reduced propane export demand will cause propane inventories on the U.S. Gulf Coast to rise and put downward pressure on the Mt. Belvieu propane spot price.
    • Natural gas demand: EIA expects U.S. natural gas demand to grow by 4% in 2025, averaging just over 115 billion cubic feet per day. This increase is led by a 18% increase in exports and a 9% increase in residential and commercial consumption for space heating. The increase in natural gas exports is driven primarily by growth in liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports as two new LNG export facilities—Plaquemines Phase 1 and Golden Pass LNG—ramp up operations.
    • Although China announced on April 7 that it would no longer import U.S. LNG, EIA expects that ample global demand for LNG and flexible destination clauses in U.S. LNG contracts mean U.S. LNG exports will be largely unaffected by recent trade policy developments.
    • Natural gas inventories and prices: U.S working natural gas inventories ended the withdrawal season 6% below the five-year average because cold weather in January and February resulted in more natural gas than average being withdrawn from storage. EIA continues to expect higher natural gas prices this year, with the Henry Hub price averaging about $4.30 per million British thermal units (MMBtu) in 2025, up $2.10 per MMBtu from 2024. EIA expects the annual average price to increase in 2026 to about $4.60 per MMBtu.
    • Trade policy assumptions: The U.S. macroeconomic outlook used in the STEO is based on S&P Global’s macroeconomic model. Although that model was released in mid-March and does not completely reflect the trade policies announced the first week of April, its assumptions are partly in line with what the President announced on April 2. S&P Global’s forecast assumes an increasing universal tariff that will reach 10% by the end of 2025 and a higher rate on U.S. imports from China. We use Oxford Economics for our global GDP forecast, which was also completed in mid-March, prior to the most recent tariff announcements.

    The full April 2025 Short-Term Energy Outlook is available on the EIA website.

    The product described in this press release was prepared by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the statistical and analytical agency within the U.S. Department of Energy. By law, EIA’s data, analysis, and forecasts are independent of approval by any other officer or employee of the U.S. government. The views in the product and this press release therefore should not be construed as representing those of the U.S. Department of Energy or other federal agencies.

    EIA Program Contact: Tim Hess, STEO@eia.gov
    EIA Press Contact: Chris Higginbotham, EIAMedia@eia.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two men convicted of manslaughter

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Two men have been convicted of manslaughter following the death of 34-year-old Justin Henry in Croydon.

    Lewis Benjamin, 30 (29.03.1994) of Waddon New Road, Croydon and Jamal Ali-Richards, 29 (20.10.1995) of Thornlaw Road, Norwood appeared at Woolwich Crown Court on Thursday, 10 April 2025, where following an eight-week-trial, they were both convicted of manslaughter. They were found not guilty of murder.

    The court heard that while Justin had been reported missing, Benjamin and Ali-Richards were discarding of his body and attempting to clean up evidence of his death.

    Detective Chief Inspector Craig Magee of the Met’s Specialist Crime Team who led the investigation said:

    “Justin’s disappearance prompted a complex and extensive investigation.

    “Today’s verdict is testament to the painstaking efforts of the investigation team. Benjamin and Ali-Richards went to great lengths to dispose of evidence and cover their tracks, which included significant attempts to dispose of Justin’s body. Despite these efforts, the team worked tirelessly to piece together the evidence and establish the facts.

    “The loss of Justin continues to have a long lasting and devastating impact on his family and friends. Throughout the investigation and trial, the strength and resilience shown by them has been extraordinary. I hope that today’s verdict will provide an opportunity for them to begin rebuilding their lives.”

    Justin was reported missing on Monday, 16 October 2023 as he never returned home after he left his girlfriend’s house the evening before.

    CCTV enquiries showed Justin was last seen alive buying food at McDonald’s drive-thru in Croydon on Sunday, 15 October before driving to Waddon New Road, where Benjamin lived. Justin’s car stayed for over two hours and was then moved to Kingswood Drive a 19 minute drive away, it is believed that Justin had sadly died by this point and someone else had moved his vehicle.

    The location of Justin’s car highlighted Lewis Benjamin, who lived on Waddon New Road, as a suspect. His friend, Jamal Ali-Richards was also determined as a suspect.

    When officers arrived at Lewis Benjamin’s address, it had been cleared of most furniture and the carpet had been ripped up and removed. The flat also appeared to have been recently deep-cleaned. Police declared the flat as a crime scene and forensic officers were called to the property, they located small spatters of blood on the walls.

    Less than 100 metres from the address, officers located black plastic bags which contained a section of heavily blood soaked carpet. When tested, the blood from the address and the carpet was matched to Justin Henry.

    Benjamin was arrested on 24 October 2023. When officers arrived at this address, he ran into the back garden, throwing his phone away before being detained and arrested. When his phone was analysed, it showed that Benjamin had been in contact with Justin Henry prior to his disappearance.

    In interview, he refused to answer any questions. Despite this, he was charged on 25 October 2023 with murder.

    Ali-Richards handed himself into police and was arrested on 27 October 2023. He was subsequently charged with murder on 29 October.

    Officers continued to analyse CCTV footage and other information. On Monday, 6 November officers located one of two cars the defendants had bought in the days following the murder and placed false number plates on. This car was parked off Dale Road in Purley. When forensic officers arrived, Justin’s body was located in the boot.

    On 17 February 2025, Lewis Benjamin pleaded guilty to perverting the course of justice following his attempts to disguise his actions and dispose of evidence. On 21 March 2025, during the trial, Jamal Ali-Richards also pleaded guilty to this. Both men pleaded not guilty to murder, but following an eight-week trial which began on 17 February 2025, they were both convicted of manslaughter.

    DCI Craig Magee added: “Today’s verdict sends a clear message that we will work tirelessly to hold those who commit such crimes to account.”

    Ali-Richards and Benjamin will appear at Woolwich Crown Court on Tuesday, 10 June 2025 for sentencing.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Availability of the Credit Agricole Assurances Group’s Solvency and Financial Condition Report for the financial year 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press release                                                                                                         Paris, April 8, 2025

    Availability of the Credit Agricole Assurances Group’s Solvency and Financial Condition Report for the financial year 2024

    Crédit Agricole Assurances announced today the release of its Group Solvency and Financial Condition Report (SFCR) for the financial year 2024.

    The SFCR was established in accordance with Solvency II regulations. It takes account in particular of the guidelines of the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) and the notices of the Autorité de Contrôle Prudentiel et de Résolution (ACPR) in this matter.

    The SFCR provides an overview of insurance activities in the Solvency 2 environment. This report, together with the various annual quantitative statements (Quantitative Reporting Templates – “QRT”) attached to it, summarise and explain the activity and performance of the Crédit Agricole Assurances Group, demonstrate the appropriateness of its governance system, present its risk profile, describe how its prudential balance sheet has been valued, and assess its solvency.

    The Crédit Agricole Assurances Group’s SFCR is available on Crédit Agricole Assurances’ website at the following address: https://www.ca-assurances.com/en/investors/.

    About Crédit Agricole Assurances
    Crédit Agricole Assurances, France’s leading insurer, is Crédit Agricole group’s subsidiary, which brings together all the insurance businesses of Crédit Agricole S.A. Crédit Agricole Assurances offers a range of products and services in savings, retirement, health, personal protection and property insurance. They are distributed by Crédit Agricole’s banks in France and in 9 countries worldwide, and are aimed at individual, professional, agricultural and business customers. At the end of 2024, Crédit Agricole Assurances had more than 6,700 employees. Its 2024 premium income (non-GAAP) amounted to 43.6 billion euros.
    www.ca-assurances.com

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: EIA expects less oil demand and lower oil and gasoline prices in an uncertain market

    Source: US Energy Information Administration – EIA

    Headline: EIA expects less oil demand and lower oil and gasoline prices in an uncertain market

    U.S. ENERGY INFORMATION ADMINISTRATION
    WASHINGTON DC 20585

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    April 10, 2025

    The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) expects recent developments in global trade policy and oil production to contribute to lower global demand growth for petroleum products through 2026, which contributes to significantly lower oil prices than previously forecast.

    In its April Short-Term Energy Outlook (STEO), EIA points out significant uncertainties in energy supply, demand, and prices.

    The STEO is based on current market conditions, and in the first week of April, numerous developments affected the global market—especially oil markets. On April 2, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order announcing a minimum 10% tariff on imports from all countries, which also included higher tariffs on some countries. On April 4, China responded by imposing 34% tariffs on imports from the United States. Amid the tariff announcements, OPEC+ members announced on April 3 that some countries will start oil production increases in May that were originally set for July.

    These announcements caused the Brent crude oil spot price to fall by 12% on April 2 to $68 per barrel on April 4. EIA completed its forecasts on April 7, so the April STEO includes some of the recent changes in the energy market, but the agency expects continued volatility as market participants respond to further developments.

    U.S. energy market indicators 2024 2025 2026
    Brent crude oil spot price (dollars per barrel) $81 $68 $61
    Retail gasoline price (dollars per gallon) $3.30 $3.10 $3.10
    U.S. crude oil production (million barrels per day) 13.2 13.5 13.6
    Natural gas price at Henry Hub (dollars per million British thermal units) $2.20 $4.30 $4.60
    U.S. liquefied natural gas gross exports (billion cubic feet per day) 12 15 16
    Shares of U.S. electricity generation       
    Natural gas 42% 40% 40%
    Coal 16% 16% 15%
    Renewables 23% 25% 27%
    Nuclear 19% 19% 19%
    U.S. GDP (percentage change) 2.8% 2.0% 2.0%
    U.S. CO2 emissions (billion metric tons) 4.8 4.8 4.7
    Data source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Short-Term Energy Outlook, April 2025
    Note: Values in this table are rounded and may not match values in other tables in the STEO.

    Some key highlights from the April STEO include:

    • Global oil supply, demand, and prices: EIA expects continued growth in U.S. and global oil production as OPEC+ accelerates its previously announced production increases and the United States exempts energy from its recently announced tariffs. EIA expects global oil inventories to increase starting in the middle of 2025, but market uncertainty could lead to lower economic growth, which could lead to less growth in demand for petroleum products than EIA had previously forecast. The combination of growing supply and lower demand leads EIA to expect the Brent crude oil price to average less than $70 per barrel in 2025 and fall to an average of just over $60 per barrel in 2026. Those prices are about 10% lower than the March STEO forecast and reflect more uncertainty around global oil demand growth as well the potential for additional supply from OPEC+ in the coming months.
    • Other uncertainties in EIA’s oil price forecasts include existing sanctions on Russia, Iran, and Venezuela, which also could affect oil prices.
    • Gasoline prices: EIA forecasts the U.S. retail price for regular-grade gasoline to average about $3.10 per gallon this summer, mostly because of expected lower crude oil prices. If the forecast holds, this price would be the lowest inflation-adjusted summer average gasoline price since 2020.
    • U.S. propane markets: Among energy products, EIA expects China’s retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods will have the largest effect on propane because China is typically a major importer of U.S. propane. Some propane previously exported to China will likely find new destinations, but EIA expects that reduced propane export demand will cause propane inventories on the U.S. Gulf Coast to rise and put downward pressure on the Mt. Belvieu propane spot price.
    • Natural gas demand: EIA expects U.S. natural gas demand to grow by 4% in 2025, averaging just over 115 billion cubic feet per day. This increase is led by a 18% increase in exports and a 9% increase in residential and commercial consumption for space heating. The increase in natural gas exports is driven primarily by growth in liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports as two new LNG export facilities—Plaquemines Phase 1 and Golden Pass LNG—ramp up operations.
    • Although China announced on April 7 that it would no longer import U.S. LNG, EIA expects that ample global demand for LNG and flexible destination clauses in U.S. LNG contracts mean U.S. LNG exports will be largely unaffected by recent trade policy developments.
    • Natural gas inventories and prices: U.S working natural gas inventories ended the withdrawal season 6% below the five-year average because cold weather in January and February resulted in more natural gas than average being withdrawn from storage. EIA continues to expect higher natural gas prices this year, with the Henry Hub price averaging about $4.30 per million British thermal units (MMBtu) in 2025, up $2.10 per MMBtu from 2024. EIA expects the annual average price to increase in 2026 to about $4.60 per MMBtu.
    • Trade policy assumptions: The U.S. macroeconomic outlook used in the STEO is based on S&P Global’s macroeconomic model. Although that model was released in mid-March and does not completely reflect the trade policies announced the first week of April, its assumptions are partly in line with what the President announced on April 2. S&P Global’s forecast assumes an increasing universal tariff that will reach 10% by the end of 2025 and a higher rate on U.S. imports from China. We use Oxford Economics for our global GDP forecast, which was also completed in mid-March, prior to the most recent tariff announcements.

    The full April 2025 Short-Term Energy Outlook is available on the EIA website.

    The product described in this press release was prepared by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the statistical and analytical agency within the U.S. Department of Energy. By law, EIA’s data, analysis, and forecasts are independent of approval by any other officer or employee of the U.S. government. The views in the product and this press release therefore should not be construed as representing those of the U.S. Department of Energy or other federal agencies.

    EIA Program Contact: Tim Hess, STEO@eia.gov
    EIA Press Contact: Chris Higginbotham, EIAMedia@eia.gov

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister Smyth signs a Memorandum of Understanding establishing a Joint Economic Commission between Ireland and the United Arab Emirates

    Source: Government of Ireland – Department of Jobs Enterprise and Innovation

    10th April 2025

    Niamh Smyth, Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with His Excellency Dr Thani Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, on the 10th of April in Dubai establishing a new Joint Economic Commission between Ireland and the United Arab Emirates. 

    Joint Economic Commissions are a valuable forum for officials to discuss and exchange information and consult on trade and economic issues. This agreement builds on longstanding links and cooperation between the two countries and enhances the bi-lateral relationship between Ireland and the UAE.  

    Bilateral trade between Ireland and the UAE with a value of nearly €8 billion annually, positions the UAE as Ireland’s largest trading partner in the Arab world. 

    Minister Smyth said:

    “I would like to thank our Ambassador, Alison Milton, and her staff for their work in promoting our bilateral relations in the region. The warm reception I received today from Minister Thani Al Zeyoudi and his team is a reflection of the friendship that has grown over the last fifty years of diplomatic relations between Ireland and the UAE. It is very fitting that this agreement is being signed on the same day as Ireland is marking 50 years of diplomatic relations with the UAE.

    “In that time, both of our countries have enjoyed sustained growth in our respective economies. That growth would not have been possible without our State Agencies, Enterprise Ireland, Bord Bia, the IDA, and Tourism Ireland, who work tirelessly to promote Ireland here in the UAE. Through these collective efforts, the bilateral relationship has reached truly remarkable heights. 

    “The Joint Economic Commission will give a new forum for further collaboration in areas such as trade and investment, aviation, education and research, renewable energy and green technology, healthcare and life sciences. Once fully established, it will serve as a vehicle to enhance internal cooperation and coordination, strengthening Ireland’s partnership with one of the most dynamic economies in the world, and one with huge potential for increased bilateral trade and investment.”

    His Excellency Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi said:

     “The relationship between the UAE and Ireland is one of mutual respect and shared ambition. With a foundation built on trade and cooperation, we are well-positioned to explore new avenues for investment and collaboration. The signing of this MoU is a testament to our commitment to enhancing bilateral relations and unlocking the significant potential that exists between our two countries.”

    Notes to the Editors

    Ireland currently maintains active Joint Economic Commissions (JECs) with China, Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Korea which facilitate dialogue at official level across a range of economic, trade, investment, innovation and science and technology fields. This signing of this agreement with the UAE establishes a new JEC.

    JECs provide a valuable forum for exchanges and experience-sharing regarding economic and industrial policies. They can act as a platform to progress mutually beneficial trade and investment promotion, raise market access or regulatory issues and support closer cooperation in priority areas such as science, innovation and technology, education, connectivity, labour markets, green and digital transformations, supply chain resilience, tourism and culture, agriculture and food security, health, aviation and aerospace, and cybersecurity. The format allows partners to receive a response on important trade and investment issues, to discuss WTO developments and to increase awareness of our countries and respective enterprise and economic priorities among key decision makers. A JEC can also provide a mechanism for progressing matters proposed already, for example, under previously suggested MoUs. 

    On the Irish side, the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment continue to lead on establishing and coordinating Ireland’s approach to JECs. In general, JECs meet on a biennial basis, at senior official level, with location alternating between the partners.

    ENDS

    Back to Department News

    Back to Top

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM call with Prime Minister Ishiba of Japan: 10 April 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    PM call with Prime Minister Ishiba of Japan: 10 April 2025

    The Prime Minister spoke to the Prime Minister of Japan Shigeru Ishiba this morning.

    The Prime Minister spoke to the Prime Minister of Japan Shigeru Ishiba this morning.

    On trade, the leaders agreed that a trade war does not benefit anyone, and that now is the time for a cool, calm and pragmatic approach.

    They agreed on the importance of likeminded partners such as the UK and Japan to work closely together to lower trade barriers. Through trading blocs such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and working bilaterally, there are many options to accelerate growth.  

    The Prime Minister wished Prime Minister Ishiba success for the launch of the Osaka Expo next week, and they discussed the UK pavilion focussed on innovation, which underpins the UK-Japan bilateral relationship. 

    On defence and security, the leaders discussed deeper cooperation, welcoming the progress of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) and reaffirmed their commitment to deliver the next generation of fighter jets.   

    The Prime Minister thanked Prime Minister Ishiba for Japan’s support for the Coalition of the Willing in support for Ukraine. 

    They agreed to keep in close touch.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Seddon appointed as construction partner for £11.5 million Watermill School satellite project

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Thursday, 10th April 2025

    Work is underway on a multi-million-pound school project to provide more first-class learning opportunities for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

    The £11.5 million scheme will see the construction of a new satellite facility to the existing Watermill School in Packmoor.

    It will help more Stoke-on-Trent children get the education and support they need closer to their homes.

    Stoke-on-Trent-based Seddon Construction Ltd has been awarded the contract to construct the new building complex on Turnhurst Road, which will accommodate up to 70 pupils and is funded through the city council’s Schools Capital Programme.

    A ground-breaking ceremony took place on April 9 to officially launch the start of work. The building is expected to be completed by July 2026 – and it is set to be open to pupils from September 2026.

    The satellite school is being built on the site of the former Middlehurst School, which was closed in 2014 and demolished in 2022 – bringing a vacant site back into use.

    Watermill School, which became an Academy in 2019 as part of the Orchard Community Trust, has been designed to provide for a wide range of pupils’ needs to be addressed through educational, social, physical and emotional growth for three-to-16-year-olds.

    Pupils at the school all have learning difficulties of some kind – this may include moderate, severe, physical and multiple learning difficulties and autism.

    Councillor Sarah Jane Colclough, cabinet member for education and anti-poverty at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “The Watermill School satellite will help expand on the vital work it does in creating an inclusive environment that values diversity and equality and provides strong foundations for pupils to thrive and accomplish their goals in life.

    “We’re committed to ensuring that we have an agreed vision across the city, and our partnerships, so that children and young people with SEND have the right support, at the right time, delivered by the right people.

    “Making sure that children can access the support they need in their local communities is a really important part of this, so I’m really pleased that we are increasing the number of SEND school places available in the city.”

    Councillor Finlay Gordon McCusker, cabinet member for transport, infrastructure and regeneration at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “This project is another clear sign that we are regenerating Stoke-on-Trent for the benefit of everyone.

    “Seddon has been involved at every step of the process, through the pre-construction design and planning phase. Their appointment as the main contractor will see this exciting and much-needed development moving forward at pace.”

    It is the latest project that Seddon is working on for the council. In December, the company was appointed to carry out the £5 million transformation of the Potteries Museum and Art Gallery.

    Lee Shaw, Commercial Manager at Seddon, said: “This is a project we’re deeply proud to be delivering – not just because of the difference it will make to children and families, but because it represents a strong collaboration between experienced, regional partners. We’re excited to be on site and to see the vision start to take shape.”

    Watermill School Head Teacher Jen Lomas said: “Watermill School and Orchard Community Trust are delighted to be part of the expansion of special school places within Stoke-on-Trent. We are planning with Seddon, Stoke-on-Trent City Council and other partners to ensure that our expansion will support the delivery of our carefully designed inclusive curriculum.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Work underway on new public toilets in Edinburgh parks

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    The installation of new public toilets across premier parks in Edinburgh is well underway, with the first unit delivered successfully to the Meadows last week.

    As part of an ongoing initiative to improve accessibility and inclusivity in the city’s public spaces, new facilities will be introduced in the Meadows, Leith Links and Inverleith Park.

    The toilets are scheduled to open in time for the summer season.

    At the Meadows, the first of three units is now in place, with a boardwalk structure installed to provide access while protecting tree roots. The next steps will be connecting the unit to electric, water and sewer utility networks. The toilets will be located at the intersection of South Middle Meadow Walk and Melville Drive, providing easy access for park visitors, joggers and event-goers.

    Meanwhile, work in Inverleith Park is progressing with excavation for a concrete base currently in progress, and construction at Leith Links expected to begin within the next week.

    Culture and Communities Convener Val Walker said:

    The Edinburgh Public Toilets in Parks project is designed to provide long-term, sustainable public amenities that enhance inclusivity for all. Our goal is to create facilities that are welcoming, safe, and clean setting a new standard for public toilet development throughout the city. This includes the installation of Changing Places toilets for individuals with complex needs. The new public toilets will be free of charge, offering an accessible and convenient option for all park visitors.

    Each modular toilet unit is designed to be accessible and private. The new facilities will include:

    • 3 family accessible cubicles
    • 1 accessible toilet
    • 1 Changing Places toilet
    • Outdoor water fountain
    • Eco-friendly sedum roof to support biodiversity
    • Live CCTV camera & LED lighting for security and safety
    • Anti-vandal roof and water-efficient management system, designed for durability, sustainability, and reduced water usage.

    For further updates on the project, please visit the Edinburgh Thriving Greenspaces website.

    Published: April 10th 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: LECTRA confirms its eligibility for the PEA-PME scheme

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

             Press release
                                    Contact: investor.relations@lectra.com

    LECTRA confirms its eligibility for the PEA-PME scheme

    Paris, April 10, 2025– LECTRA, a company listed on the regulated market Euronext Paris, compartment B, confirms that it meets the criteria for the PEA-PME savings plans set forth in Article L.221-32-2 of the French Monetary and Financial Code, i.e. market capitalization below 2 billion euros.

    Consequently, investment in Lectra shares (FR0000065484, LSS) can be made through PEA-PME savings accounts.

    About Lectra

    As a major player in the fashion, automotive and furniture markets, Lectra contributes to the Industry 4.0 revolution with boldness and passion by providing best-in-class technologies.

    The Group offers industrial intelligence solutions – software, equipment, data and services – that facilitate the digital transformation of the companies it serves. In doing so, Lectra helps its customers push boundaries and unlock their potential. The Group is proud to state that its 3,000 employees are driven by three core values: being open-minded thinkers, trusted partners and passionate innovators.

    Founded in 1973, Lectra reported revenues of 527 million euros in 2024. The company is listed on Euronext, where it is included in the following indices: CAC All Shares, CAC Technology, EN Tech Leaders and ENT PEA-PME 150.

     

    For more information, visit lectra.com.

    Lectra – World Headquarters: 16–18, rue Chalgrin • 75016 Paris • France
    Tel. +33 (0)1 53 64 42 00 – lectra.com
    A French Société Anonyme with capital of €37,966,274 – RCS Paris 300 702 305

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Home Secretary letter on the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Correspondence

    Home Secretary letter on the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee

    The Home Secretary has written to all police and crime commissioners and chief constables in England and Wales about the launch of the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee.

    Applies to England and Wales

    Documents

    Letter from the Home Secretary to police and crime commissioners and chief constables on the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee (accessible)

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    Letter from the Home Secretary to police and crime commissioners and chief constables on the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee

    PDF, 129 KB, 5 pages

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    Request an accessible format.
    If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email alternativeformats@homeoffice.gov.uk. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

    Details

    Letter from the Home Secretary to police and crime commissioners and chief constables in England and Wales outlining the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 April 2025

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MENG HAILS NASA ASTRONAUT – WHO RECENTLY VISITED QUEENS – FOR ARRIVING AT INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Grace Meng (6th District of New York)

    QUEENS, NY – Today, U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) hailed NASA Astronaut Jonny Kim – who recently visited Queens – for arrivingat the International Space Station this morning in his first spaceflight.  

    In October 2022, Meng brought Kim to the borough where he met and spoke with local students at Francis Lewis High School in Fresh Meadows and the Queens College School for Math, Science and Technology in Flushing. Meng and Kim also hosted a luncheon with local Korean American leaders in Flushing.

    During his trip to Queens, Meng introduced him to the students, and Kim talked about becoming an astronaut, space exploration, overcoming challenges and his remarkable life and career.  

    “I remember seeing the excitement from Queens students when Jonny Kim came to their school and how they were inspired by his story,” said Meng. “I’m thrilled to now see him arriving in space and I wish him all the best in this important mission.”

    Kim arrived at the International Space Station with two Russian cosmonauts and is scheduled to stay aboard the orbital outpost for eight months. During the mission, he will conduct scientific research in technology development, Earth science, biology, human research and more. 

    A child of South Korean immigrants, Kim was selected by NASA in 2017 after serving as a U.S. Navy SEAL, receiving the Silver Star and Bronze Star and earning a medical degree from Harvard Medical School. 

    Meng is the top Democrat on the House subcommittee that funds NASA and is proud to have secured money for the space agency to fund missions like these.    

    Kim’s full bio can be viewed here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pallone, 24 Armenian Caucus Members Urge Direct, Proactive American Engagement in South Caucasus Peace Negotiations

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Frank Pallone (6th District of New Jersey)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues Co-Chairs Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), David Valadao (CA-22), and Brad Sherman (CA-32) and 21 additional bipartisan members sent a letter today to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Michael Waltz requesting strong American engagement in the ongoing peace negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The United States has the potential to help secure an historic deal for this decades long conflict, and the letter encourages the Trump Administration to take additional steps to achieve this goal.

    “We welcome recent efforts to ensure a negotiated and peaceful settlement of this long-standing conflict. We also strongly agree with Secretary Rubio’s statement that “now is the time to commit to peace” in the South Caucasus and NSA Waltz’s call to “finalize this peace deal now, release the prisoners, and work together to make the region more secure and prosperous.” To ensure a sustainable peace, the U.S. must play a pivotal role in preventing any additional barriers to the signing of a formal document between the two sides.”

    “As Armenia seeks to reduce its dependence on Russia and pivot toward the West, securing a lasting peace in the South Caucasus is a national security imperative and directly in line with President Trump’s global peace initiatives. Considering Azerbaijan’s ongoing threats toward Armenia and the risk this poses to a fragile peace process, we believe the United States has a responsibility to pursue important confidence and security-building measures.”

    The full list of cosigners includes: Representatives Pallone (NJ-06), Valadao (CA-22), Sherman (CA-32), Bilirakis (FL-12), Amo (RI-01), Chu (CA-28), Costa (CA-21), Friedman (CA-30), Gottheimer (NJ-05), Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Lawler (NY-17), S. Lee (NV-03), Lofgren (CA-19), Magaziner (RI-02), McGovern (MA-03), Min (CA-47), Mullin (CA-15), Norton (DC-AL), Omar (MN-05), (Pingree (ME-01), Sánchez (CA-38), Schakowsky (IL-09), Schneider (IL-10), Stevens (MI-11), Trahan (MA-03)

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Protecting media freedom is crucial to our democracies, says OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media in first report to OSCE Permanent Council

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: Protecting media freedom is crucial to our democracies, says OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media in first report to OSCE Permanent Council

    Protecting media freedom is crucial to our democracies, says OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media in first report to OSCE Permanent Council | OSCE
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    Home Newsroom News and press releases Protecting media freedom is crucial to our democracies, says OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media in first report to OSCE Permanent Council

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man sentenced for manslaughter through diminished responsibility

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A 32-year-old man has been sentenced for manslaughter through diminished responsibility, after he stabbed his stepfather in his own home.

    Adejuwon Olufemi Alexander Jnr Oyekan, 32 (08.11.1992) of Melina Close, Hayes, was sentenced to a hospital order until deemed fit for release, on Thursday, 10 April at the Old Bailey. He had previously pleaded guilty to manslaughter through diminished responsibility at the same court on Monday, 24 February 2025.

    Officers were called to a residence in Hayes in the early hours of Tuesday, 11 July 2023, to reports Oyekan had stabbed his 54-year-old stepfather Jason Thompson.

    When they arrived, officers were faced with Oyekan still armed with the knife which he had used to attack Jason.

    After the first responding officers had gained entry to residence they challenged Oyekan, initially using their tasers in an attempt to disarm him. When this was unsuccessful, they then left the address to await support from armed response officers to detain him.

    When officers returned to the property, they made it their priority to assist Jason. However, sadly and despite the best efforts of the emergency services, Jason died from his injuries at the scene.

    Barbara Thompson, sister to Jason Thompson:

    “Jason and I had a special bond. We were both cheerleaders for one another and revelled in each other’s good news and growth. Equally, his love for family and life was authentic and abundant.

    “There is not a day that goes past without tears and my heart aching. I still struggle with the reality that he’s not here. I struggle with the violence he endured. I struggle with the unfairness of my brother being taken so tragically.

    “Jason leaves behind a beautiful, attentive and caring legacy and I and so many others thank him for the beautiful memories, care and love he provided.”

    Detective Chief Inspector Laura Semple from the Met’s Public Protection Partnership, said:

    “Our thoughts remain with Jason’s family throughout this difficult time”

    “I’d like to thank the first responding officers who attended the scene and demonstrated huge bravery to challenge Oyekan, who was armed and acting aggressively.

    “Their quick thinking, to use the tools at their disposal, guaranteed Oyekan was admitted to custody from the scene, and did not go on to pose a wider threat to the public.”

    “Oyekan will now be detained under a hospital order until he is deemed fit for release, meaning he will no longer be a risk to the public.”

    Oyekan was arrested at the scene and charged with murder on Wednesday, 11 July 2023.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Treasury Bill Auction Announcement – RIKV 25 0716 – RIKV 25 1015

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Series RIKV 25 0716 RIKV 25 1015
    ISIN IS0000037117 IS0000037448
    Maturity Date 07/16/2025 10/15/2025
    Auction Date 04/14/2025 04/14/2025
    Settlement Date 04/16/2025 04/16/2025

    On the Auction Date, between 10:30 am and 11:00 am, the Government Debt Management will auction Treasury bills in the Series, with the ISIN numbers and with the Maturity Dates according to the table above. Payments for the Treasury bills must be received by the Central Bank before 14:00 on the Settlement Date and the Bills will be delivered in electronic form on the same day.

    Further reference is made to the General Terms of Icelandic Treasury bills and General Terms of Auction for Treasury bills on the Government Debt Management website.

    For additional information please contact Oddgeir Gunnarsson, Government Debt Management, at +354 569 9635.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Strategic Development Fund and QuantCube Launch JV to Drive Real-Time AI Data Analytics in the UAE

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates, April 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Strategic Development Fund (SDF), an Abu Dhabi based investment company wholly owned by EDGE Group PJSC, and QuantCube Technology, a Paris-based expert in real-time macroeconomic intelligence, announced today that they have entered into an agreement to establish a joint venture in Abu Dhabi. The announcement, made during the AIM Congress 2025, reflects a shared ambition to align with the UAE’s focus on artificial intelligence and data-driven decision-making.

    The joint venture, to be jointly owned by SDF and QuantCube Technology, will build on QuantCube’s advanced capabilities in alternative data and AI to deliver real-time, actionable economic and financial intelligence. Designed for institutional investors, corporates, financial institutions, and government agencies across the region, the platform will support strategic planning, forecasting, and data-driven decision-making.

    In addition to macroeconomic and financial analytics, the partnership will enable dynamic tracking of global supply chains and physical asset flows, leveraging QuantCube’s real-time nowcasting and geospatial data tools to support operational readiness and strategic insight. By combining powerful AI-driven analytics with deep regional integration, this collaboration aims to unlock new use cases and broaden access to advanced intelligence solutions for organizations navigating increasingly complex environments.

    “This joint venture with QuantCube reflects our commitment to introducing innovative technologies that can be customized, implemented, and delivered across different industries in the region through the UAE, providing them with strategic and financial value,” said Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Chief Portfolio Management Officer, SDF. “As a strategic investor in QuantCube, we recognized significant potential in applying this capability across various sectors to optimize supply chain management. This joint venture is an opportunity to unlock and bring advanced, AI-powered and customizable data & analytics solutions and insights to the UAE and regional markets – making timely intelligence more accessible to private and government clients.”

    “We are excited to collaborate with SDF, one of our strategic shareholders in QuantCube, to bring our nowcasting expertise to the UAE and wider region,” said Thanh-Long Huynh, Co-Founder & CEO, QuantCube. “Through this joint venture, we aim to deliver innovative solutions that provide institutions across various industries with timely, accurate insights and forecasting analytics. These capabilities will help drive their growth within the region’s thriving economy and support more informed, strategic decision-making in a rapidly evolving global landscape.”

    The joint venture builds on SDF’s initial investment in QuantCube in 2022, which was followed by further investments over the past few years, and reflects SDF’s continued confidence in the company’s capabilities. By establishing operations in the UAE, the partners aim to make AI-powered nowcasting tools and alternative data analytics available to decision-makers in the region.

    As the collaboration evolves, the joint venture is well positioned to enable data-informed strategies and broaden the use of advanced analytics as practical tools for organisations navigating an increasingly complex regional landscape.

    Media Contact: Abed el hadi Flaifel
    a.alhadifleifel@quant-cube.com
    +33698451270
    https://www.quant-cube.com/
    15 Bd Poissonnière
    France
    75002
    FR

    About Strategic Development Fund (SDF):
    Strategic Development Fund (SDF) is an Abu Dhabi-based investment company, wholly owned by EDGE Group PJSC. Established in 2019, SDF focuses on generating financial returns and fostering economic impact within the UAE’s strategic sectors. The company invests in dual-use and commercial technologies across areas such as aerospace, advanced mobility, autonomous systems, robotics, and artificial intelligence. By leveraging global partnerships, SDF accelerates the growth of its portfolio companies and fosters the development of cutting-edge technologies within the UAE. Additionally, SDF contributes to enhancing critical supply chain resilience, aligning with the UAE’s vision for innovation and economic diversification.

    About QuantCube Technology:
    QuantCube Technology uses artificial intelligence and big data analytics to deliver real-time macroeconomic insights. The firm operates one of the largest alternative data lakes in the world, processing more than 14 billion data end points. Sources encompass news, social media, satellite data, professional networks and consumer reviews, as well as international trade, shipping, real estate, hospitality, telecoms and goods and prices data. QuantCube’s macro nowcast indices, on variables including economic growth, inflation, employment and international trade, correlate highly with official data and significantly beat the consensus. Financial institutions using QuantCube data benefit from real-time insight, often ahead of official numbers, which they can use to inform their investment strategies.

    Headquartered in Paris, QuantCube employs a diverse international team of data scientists with expertise in multilingual NLP, deep learning and machine learning techniques. The company’s shareholders include SDF and Moody’s and its R&D in computer vision has been partially funded by the European Space Agency (ESA) and French government space agency CNES.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b3a494a2-3771-4dc8-a68a-a5c6dd3bd70f

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Import a Non-Standard Magistrate Claim Service

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Import a Non-Standard Magistrate Claim Service

    Import claims from your case management system using new functionality in the Non-Standard Magistrate claims service

    The Non-Standard Magistrate Claim service was successfully implemented as a replacement for the eForms service in September 2024.

    New functionality release

    We recently released an import feature within the service that allows you to upload claims exported from enabled case management software systems.

    The ‘Import a Claim’ button on the ‘Your claims’ page, has, as of 24 March 2025, allowed a user to upload a claim exported in XML file format from their case management system. This will populate as much of the form as possible and help users complete their claims faster and with fewer errors. 

    This will be particularly helpful if you have many work items, as currently, these must be entered line by line.

    Why is it happening now?

    We have heard and seen the difficulty providers have submitting these claims, especially when there are many work items to add. We really wanted to find a fast and simple solution to improve the efficiency of these submissions.

    Updates may be required to your case management system

    For this feature to work, your case management systems will need to be updated with the ability to export a claim to an XML file that maps to the correct schema.

    Case management system providers should have received communications with this attached. However, if yours has not, you may pass on the schema linked in the further information section below.

    Note that, without an export that maps to this specific schema, attempts to use the ‘import a claim’ feature will either not work or cause errors and therefore create a slower claim submission experience. If you cannot export a claim in this format, please talk to your case management system provider so that they may assist you in adding this capability.   

    Provider feedback

    The Non-Standard Magistrate Claim service has been informed by provider feedback, and we continue to welcome your feedback through the feedback link in the service.

    Looking forward

    We will continue to expand the functionality of the service, listening to feedback from providers to deliver a more accessible, user-friendly platform.

    Further information

    Schema for case management system providers

    CRM7 replacement service launch – GOV.UK

    Contact Online Support on NSCC@justice.gov.uk for technical issues.      

    Contact Magistrates Billing on 0300 20 20 20 or email magsbilling@justice.gov.uk for queries about claims and guidance.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Healthcare company prosecuted for destroying protected trees

    Source: City of Liverpool

    A local healthcare company has been ordered to pay over £6,000 for unlawfully destroying three protected trees which were believed to be over 100 years old.

    Harbour Healthcare Ltd. appeared in court on Thursday 4 April for breaching a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) that has been in place for almost 40 years.

    Liverpool City Council planning officers were made aware of the unauthorised works taking place at one of the company’s care homes, Kingswood Mount Care Home in Woolton, last year.

    An inspection by one of the Council’s tree and landscape officers found that irreparable damage had been done to mature beech, yew and oak trees, all of which were covered by a TPO.

    The yew tree had been felled from ground level, while both the oak and beech trees had been topped, which is the act of removing the top of the tree, including its main branches. The inspection found that the heavy pruning of the two topped trees had likely caused irreparable damage and caused their destruction.

    A TPO protects trees that contribute to the local environment against being cut down, topped, lopped, or uprooted without prior permission.

    While trees under a TPO can be removed if they are dead or dangerous, this must be evidenced. An inspection of the three destroyed trees at the care home found that the trees posed no such risk.

    Before they were destroyed, the trees were believed to stand between 15m and 25m tall and, due to their age, had a combined value of £357,409.

    In court, Harbour Healthcare Ltd. Pleaded guilty to three separate offences, covering each of the three trees and were ordered to pay £6,777 in the next 28 days.

    In a separate case, Mr Daniel McCormack, the tree surgeon who carried out the works as part of A&C Tree Care, also pleaded guilty to three offences and was sentenced to a fine of £960.

    Anyone planning works on trees in Liverpool can check whether they’re protected by a TPO on the Council’s website.

    Councillor Laura Robertson-Collins, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Communities and Streetscene said: “Trees are a vital part of our city. Not only are they a beautiful feature of Liverpool’s landscape, but they play an important role in cleaning the air that we breathe.

    “Multiple generations have passed since these trees were planted and we protect them for a reason. Heavy pruning can easily damage or kill trees and that’s the last thing we want, which is why we are strict on the type of works that can take place in a Tree Preservation Order.

    “While new trees can be planted to replace the needless loss of the three that were destroyed, we won’t be around to see them grow to their full potential.

    “I hope that this case sends a clear message to anyone thinking about carrying out unauthorised work in a TPO area that this is a serious topic and we won’t hesitate to prosecute. There is no excuse for ignoring these orders and wilfully destroying our city’s much needed and cherished trees.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The UK welcomes the formation of the new Syrian government: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Speech

    The UK welcomes the formation of the new Syrian government: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Statement by Jess Jambert-Gray, UK Deputy Political Coordinator, at the UN Security Council meeting on Syria.

    I will make three points.

    First, since this Council last met, Syria has made further positive progress in its political transition. 

    The UK welcomes the announcement on the formation of the new Syrian government. 

    And we look forward to the protection of human rights, unfettered access of humanitarian aid, the safe destruction of chemical weapons and the combatting of terrorism and extremism.

    The government’s formation marks an important milestone in the transition. 

    We hope this spirit of inclusive representation will be carried forward in state institutions and in any further appointments, including to the Legislative Committee, and to a clear timeline for the next phases of the transition. 

    The UK stands ready to work with the Syrian government to this end and to support an inclusive, stable and prosperous future for the Syrian people.

    Second, this opportunity for stability is being threatened by the continued violence. 

    We are concerned by Israeli strikes and incursions into Syria, with reports of civilian deaths. 

    These actions risk destabilising Syria and the wider region. 

    And this is in no one’s interest. 

    We recognise Israel’s focus on protecting the security of its borders and its people, but the actions it takes must be proportionate and in line with international law. 

    We call on all actors to uphold the 1974 Disengagement Agreement, respect Syrian territorial integrity and prioritise diplomacy over force.

    Third, it is the Syrian people who will suffer the most from this worrying escalation. 

    After fourteen years of tyranny and conflict at the hands of the Assad regime, the Syrian people still face a staggering humanitarian crisis. 

    And that is why the UK has recently pledged up to $207 million in critical humanitarian assistance. 

    Our focus should now be on supporting Syrians to rebuild their country. 

    Therefore we call on all parties to ensure that humanitarian access remains possible across Syria and that civilian lives are protected. 

    The UK will continue to work with our international partners to support Syrians as they look to build a better future.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More detail announced on the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    More detail announced on the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee

    3,000 additional neighbourhood police officers and police community support officers will be in post within the next 12 months, the government has confirmed.

    Getty Images.

    The news was announced today by the Prime Minister during a visit to Cambridgeshire, as further detail was made public on the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee.

    As part of this, every neighbourhood in England and Wales will have dedicated teams spending their time on the beat, with guaranteed police patrols in town centres and other hotspot areas at peak times such as Friday and Saturday nights. 

    Communities will also have named, contactable officers to tackle the issues facing their communities.

    There will be a dedicated antisocial behaviour lead in every force, working with residents and businesses to develop tailored action plans to tackle antisocial behaviour, which is blighting communities.

    These measures will be in place from July, in addition to the new neighbourhood officers who will be in their roles by next April.

    The Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee will put 13,000 more officers into communities by 2029, an increase of more than 50%. The early focus of the plan will be to establish named local officers, target town centre crime and build back neighbourhood policing.

    Under these plans, communities across the country will, for the first time in 15 years, be able to hold forces to account and expect a minimum standard of policing in their area.

    The government’s new Police Standards and Performance Improvement Unit will ensure police performance is consistently and accurately measured.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 10 April 2025 Departmental update Worldwide rally for maternal and newborn health marks World Health Day 2025

    Source: World Health Organisation

    On the occasion of the World Health Day 2025 dedicated to the theme of Healthier beginnings, hopeful futures, over 100 global offices of the World Health Organization (WHO) have organized wide-ranging public advocacy actions in collaboration with Member States, communities, health workers, partner and donor agencies and civil society organizations.

    The unprecedented global action to defend maternal and newborn health care services highlights the importance of protecting critical maternal, newborn health related services that are increasingly under threat of funding challenges affecting the global health sector.
     

    World Health Day 2025 actions by WHO offices

    African Region

    • Angola launched a dynamic Facebook live event and media campaign with UNICEF and UNFPA and partners.
    • Burundi orchestrated a 10-day celebration featuring refugee clinic visits, school disease screenings, and maternal health workshops.
    • Central African Republic hosted a presidential-level celebration launching maternal health roadmap with nationwide media coverage.
    • Chad mobilized 250 UN volunteers for the campaign, culminating in a ministerial ceremony and refugee camp celebrations.
    • Republic of the Congo featured a high-profile Walk the Talk event with the Regional Director to launch a maternal death management system, among other events.
    • Comoros held a joint event with the Directorate of Family Health.
    • Côte d’Ivoire spotlighted reproductive health of disabled women through powerful exhibitions and data showcases.
    • Eritrea conducted knowledge competitions and community visits to maternal waiting homes led by Minister of Health, among other events.
    • Eswatini organized community dialogues on maternal issues with strategic media placements across multiple platforms.
    • The Gambia commemorated through media engagements on national radio and TV networks.
    • Guinea implemented nationwide vaccination campaigns alongside free consultations and high-level advocacy efforts.
    • Lesotho engaged the Prime Minister in a community event complemented by university debates and a scientific symposium.
    • Liberia held a Walk the Talk event with the Ministry of Health.
    • Madagascar combined official ceremonies with free health care services, video broadcasts, among many other activities including an energetic Zumba fitness event.
    • Malawi delivered a bilingual media campaign featuring the Minister of Health addressing maternal and neonatal health priorities.
    • Mali showcased perinatal clinic facilities through an official ceremony and comprehensive media coverage.
    • Mauritania blended cultural performances with scientific panels on reproductive health in a high-impact ceremony.
    • Nigeria: WHO Nigeria, MOH and partners organized a walk to sensitize on improving maternal and newborn health, ending preventable deaths, and prioritizing women’s long-term well-being.
    • South Sudan: amidst the ongoing security concerns, no public events were held but advocacy messages were disseminated.
    • Republic of Sierra Leone facilitated the First Lady’s visit to a maternal hospital alongside diplomatic tours of health monitoring facilities.
    • South Africa produced impact videos and coordinated joint statements with the National Department of Health across media platforms.
    • Uganda published compelling human-interest stories on maternal health alongside policy dialogues and community health check-ups, among many other events (see here).
    • Zambia released a presidential video message highlighting maternal health partnerships and community outreach initiatives (also see here and here).
    • Tanzania: WHO joined the Ministry of Health and partners for the climax of National Health Week.

    WHO Region of the Americas/Pan American Health Organization

    • The Bahamas launched the SIP+ maternal health initiative through a strategic press conference and social media campaign.
    • Belize hosted a media breakfast with the Ministry of Health featuring targeted video content for multiple platforms.
    • Chile partnered with the Ministry of Health for a nationwide campaign launch with sustained media presence.
    • Colombia showcased traditional midwifery alongside technical experts in a ministerial panel on maternal mortality reduction.
    • Cuba celebrated zero maternal deaths in Villa Clara province through a festival and a multi-agency scientific symposium.
    • Guatemala secured vice presidential participation for a high-profile campaign launch at the national palace.
    • Guyana transformed the Rosignol Health Centre into a community hub with a health fair and live social media coverage (also see here).
    • Haiti launched a National Health Week with the Prime Minister featuring themed days and nationwide health fairs.
    • Suriname combined a public health fair with a technical forum on Perinatal Health Information System implementation.
    • Trinidad and Tobago placed strategic advertorials in major newspapers highlighting SIP implementation success.

    WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region

    • Bahrain coordinated joint UN-Ministry of Health events with a cross-platform media campaign, among other events (see here and here).
    • Djibouti celebrated the dual milestone of World Health Day and 40 years of WHO presence with a maternal health focus.
    • Jordan launched a Let’s talk about health video from the WHO country office staff to share insights and inspire change.
    • Iraq designed a comprehensive Health Week with daily themes engaging youth, media, and community volunteers.
    • Kuwait secured prime national TV coverage with coordinated social media messaging (see here and here).
    • Oman mobilized a multi-ministry response integrating higher education institutions in maternal health initiatives.
    • Pakistan engaged government officials in high-visibility events complemented by human interest stories and op-eds.
    • Tunisia implemented Health Champions Week featuring centre visits and a bilingual media campaign.

    WHO European Region

    • Republic of Armenia combined provincial and ministerial leadership in a women’s health event with national TV coverage.
    • Republic of Azerbaijan inaugurated a cutting-edge simulation laboratory at Azerbaijan Medical University with national television coverage.
    • Bosnia and Herzegovina distributed ministerial certificates alongside strategic op-eds in local newspapers.
    • Bulgaria honoured Bulgarian nurses through a campaign supporting a new national nursing strategy with UNICEF amplification.
    • Cyprus launched the National Mental Health Strategy alongside breastfeeding advocacy initiatives.
    • Czechia leveraged World Health Day to amplify a national alcohol action plan through high-profile press events.
    • Estonia published influential op-eds supporting early childhood vaccination with a multi-stakeholder social media campaign.
    • Hellenic Republic unveiled WHO European Quality Standards for child/youth mental health services with expert consultation.
    • Hungary launched a targeted campaign on heatwave impacts during pregnancy featuring expert recommendations.
    • Kazakhstan mobilized the Ministry of Health and Astana Medical University for a dynamic Walk the Talk event.
    • Kyrgyz Republic engaged university students through specialized talks on maternal and newborn health priorities.
    • Montenegro secured a national television interview alongside a smoking cessation initiative for pregnant women.
    • North Macedonia combined a media briefing with a doctors’ association and prime-time national TV news coverage.
    • Republic of Moldova produced a national TV health series complemented by school campaigns and a breastfeeding caravan.
    • Romania showcased kangaroo mother care through a strategic partners exhibition and technical roundtables.
    • Serbia illuminated Belgrade Tower with campaign messaging alongside prime-time media interviews.
    • Türkiye lit the iconic Atakule landmark while hosting a university seminar with the Ministry of Health and UN agencies.
    • Turkmenistan organized a bicycle marathon and youth dialogue with health network members.
    • Republic of Uzbekistan unveiled a maternal health mural at the National Center of Mother and Child with a influencer video series.

    WHO South-East Asia Region

    • Bangladesh hosted a national event at Osmani Memorial Auditorium with a newspaper supplement and district-level activities.
    • Bhutan combined a team-building hike with a celebration featuring video messages from the Minister of Health.
    • India showcased achievements in reducing maternal and child mortality rates through a regional webinar (also see here).
    • Indonesia celebrated 75 years of WHO partnership through an online talk show and targeted social media campaign.
    • Nepal highlighted mortality rate reductions through ministerial messages and video testimonies.
    • Sri Lanka delivered a specialized webinar series on maternal health topics with technical policy briefs.
    • Thailand focused on preterm infant care through a Department of Health event featuring regional voices.
    • Timor-Leste launched the Every Newborn Action Plan alongside a Ministry of Health–WHO exhibition and technical seminar.

    WHO Western Pacific Region

    • Cambodia connected health workers nationwide through a virtual gathering with parliamentary engagement.
    • China secured ministerial leadership for a National Health Commission event featuring the Director-General’s video remarks.
    • Lao People’s Democratic Republic published a joint WR/Minister of Health opinion piece with a planned UN partner MCH event.
    • Mongolia simultaneously launched the Healthy Newborn Initiative and the Cervical Cancer Elimination Programme.
    • Independent State of Papua New Guinea implemented a comprehensive activity series including regulatory workshops and violence prevention initiatives.
    • South Pacific coordinated a joint release with regional partners while launching the WHO South Pacific LinkedIn platform.
    • Solomon Islands celebrated maternal and child health achievements with medical workers and ministry officials.
    • Socialist Republic of Viet Nam partnered with the Young Physicians Association for a Hanoi event with strategic opinion pieces in the national media.

    Worldwide actions exemplified above, among many others, generate a strong response to the global call issued by UN agencies on World Health Day, raising alarm on the threat of major backsliding of maternal and newborn health.

    World Health Day 2025 marks WHO’s 77th birthday and kicks off a year-long campaign on maternal and newborn health. WHO urges governments and the health community to ramp up efforts to end preventable maternal and newborn deaths, and to prioritize women’s longer-term health and well-being.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boilermakers organizing nets a win and a setback

    Source: US International Brotherhood of Boilermakers

    The Boilermakers union welcomed 145 new members in March after workers in the machine shop micro-unit at BWXT, Lynchburg, Virginia, voted in favor of unionizing. According to Northeast Area organizer John Bland, workers contacted Local 45 Business Manager/Secretary-Treasurer Kevin Battle in late December seeking information and help organizing.

    He said workers were fed up with working conditions and constantly changing rules. The Boilermakers and other unions had attempted at least three prior organizing efforts at BWXT since 2008, so some of the machinists had heard the message about how unionizing could provide a voice for them on the job. The time was right to organize.

    “As soon as Kevin got the call, everyone got moving on it,” Bland said. M.O.R.E. Work Investment funds helped support the Boilermakers’ organizing efforts.

    Workers inside the unit were especially key in communicating and ultimately making the campaign a success. Because BWXT is a secured nuclear operation, the massive facility is not accessible to visitors, such as union organizers. For security purposes, even inside the facility some units, areas and workers are off-limits to one another.

    “The workers took charge early on,” agreed IR Tim Tolley, who was part of the IBB organizing team. “These guys were shot out of a cannon and came to us organized and ready to go forward. You could tell they were fed up. It was a perfect storm for organizing.”

    He echoed that the biggest catalyst for the workers to unionize was the “constantly moving goal post” as the company continuously changes rules and conditions. While wages usually are an issue, at BWXT it was more about the way workers were being treated and disrespected at work.

    “This time organizing worked because we had more people that were tired of being bullied. They wanted true change,” said Chris Davis, who’s been a BWXT machinist for 19 years. “I’m most looking forward to getting a contract and a set of rules.”

    Tolley said the machinists are set to elect their bargaining committee in early April so they can get to work on their first contract.

    “The things they’re asking for are attainable,” he said. “We told them we couldn’t promise anything but a seat at the table, and that’s exactly what they’re looking for. Now, they’re looking forward to negotiating their first contract.”

    Unfortunately, a vote in March at Siemens Mobility in Sacramento, California, was a no-go to unionize—at least for now. For more than a year, Boilermakers had been working with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers as “Siemens Workers United” to organize more than 1,600 workers who manufacture light rail vehicles for a variety of transit agencies. Siemens is a global company headquartered in Germany. While the company is generally union-friendly in Germany, many of Siemens’ North American operations have resisted unionization.

    Workers interested in unionizing in Sacramento rallied around issues such as inadequate health and welfare benefits, low pay, pay disparity, gender inequality, safety and poor working conditions, such as extreme heat.

    Lawrence Garcia, a four-year employee who works in the coach weld shop, said the wages are too low, especially considering cost of living in the area.

    “I know guys who work 12-hour days or 10-hour days just to keep buying rent. I even know guys who work two jobs, just to keep from going on the streets,” he said. “The pay is not worth it.” Until recently, welders at Siemens were paid less than the $20/hour McDonald’s worker wage dictated by California.

    Alan Scovill, a weld inspector who’s worked for Siemens for a decade, told The Sacramento Bee that he hadn’t been to a doctor in three years. He pays $500 month from his paycheck for his family’s health insurance coverage, and he can’t afford the medical co-pays.

    While reasons to unionize were plentiful, the campaign faced some unique challenges. In addition to the usual union-busting tactics from the company, organizers also had a daunting task to reach workers on a massive campus – 60 acres, 11 buildings and many different departments – plus, communicating to workers in six languages and with multiple cultural nuances.

    Organizers from the Boilermakers and IBEW worked daily, building allies, dispelling myths, answering questions, knocking on doors and deploying myriad tactics to help workers understand what unions are and how unionizing gives workers a voice and a seat at table through collective bargaining.

     The M.O.R.E. Work Investment Fund provided organizing support and communications resources, including billboards, signage, fliers, digital ads and social media presence, and materials were translated into multiple languages. The unions also gained support from global unions IG Metall and IndustriALL, the California Federation of Labor Unions, State Building and Construction Trades Council of California and prominent local and state congress members. At the end of the day, it wasn’t enough to overcome Siemens Sacramento’s anti-union tactics and secure the 50% “yes” vote. This time.

    The unions must wait a full 12 months before petitioning for another union vote. That’s time to continue building positive momentum and for those who voted “no” this time to see if Siemens will live up to the promises they made in fighting against the unions.

    “If Siemens chooses now to make positive changes for workers, it’s because of the courage of workers standing together,” said organizer Pablo Barrera.

    “Although we didn’t win the vote, we are amazed by the courage of the hundreds of workers who stood together for a better future for their colleagues and their families,” said IVP-Western States J. Tom Baca. “This is not the end. It’s just the beginning, and the fight goes on.”

    Read a December 2024 Boilermaker Reporter article about earlier Siemens organizing work

    Read more

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Change of Name

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    If you are in any doubt about the course of action to take, you should consult your stockbroker, bank manager, solicitor, accountant or other professional advisor.

    If you have sold or transferred all your shares in WisdomTree Issuer ICAV please forward this document to the purchaser or transferee, or to the stockbroker, bank manager or other agent through whom the sale or transfer was effected.

    10 April 2025

    Dear Shareholder

    WisdomTree Issuer ICAV (the “ICAV”)
    Change of Fund Names and Index Methodology

    The directors of the ICAV (the “Board of Directors”) wish to advise you of a proposed changes to certain sub-funds of the ICAV (the “Funds”) to meet the requirements of EMSA’s guidelines on funds’ names using ESG or sustainability-related terms (the “Guidelines”). The Guidelines are intended to enhance investor protection where funds have names that suggest they meet certain sustainability standards. The Guidlines will apply to the Funds with effect from 21 May 2025.

    A.      The Guidelines requirements for funds’ names.

    For “environmental” related-terms to be used in a fund name, the strategy of the fund must (i) meet an 80% threshold linked to the proportion of investments used to meet the environmental and social characteristics of the fund; and (ii) incorporate the exclusionary criteria for Paris-aligned Benchmarks detailed in Article 12(1)(a) – (g) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/1818 (the “PAB Exclusions”).

    For “transition” to be used in a fund name, in addition to (i) and (ii) above funds must ensure that the investments used to meet the threshold in (i) are on a are on a clear and measurable path to social or environmental transition or are made with the objective to generate a positive and measurable social or environmental impact alongside a financial return.

    For “sustainability-related” terms to be used in a fund name it must, in addition to meeting the requirements at (i) and (ii) above, also commit to investing meaningfully (i.e it must invest at least 50% of its assets) in sustainable investments referred to in Article 2(17) of the SFDR (“Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation“).

    B.      Changes to Funds currently using “Transition” and “environmental” terms in their name

    As the below Funds do not not incorporate the PAB exclusions, the Board of Directors have determined it appropriate to rename each Fund (each a “Fund Name Change” and together, the “Fund Name Changes”) to remove “Decarbonisation” and “Energy Transition” where relevant. Accordingly, it is proposed to rename each Fund as follows with effect from 16 April 2025 or such later date as approved by the Central Bank of Ireland (the “Effective Date”).

    Current name New name
    WisdomTree Recycling Decarbonisation UCITS ETF WisdomTree Recycling UCITS ETF        
    WisdomTree Energy Transition Metals and Rare Earths Miners UCITS ETF Wisdomtree Strategic Metals and Rare Earths Miners UCITS ETF

    The Fund Name Changes will be reflected in updated versions of the Supplements for the Funds, as well as the Funds’ KIIDs, PRIIPs KIDs and marketing materials. All other key features of the Funds will remain the same and for the avoidance of doubt, the Funds’ SFDR classifications as Article 8 and investment strategies will be unchanged. Additionally, the amendments will not affect the tracking error between the Funds’ performance and that of their indices.

    WisdomTree, Inc is the index provider in relation to WisdomTree Energy Transition Metals and Rare Earths Miners UCITS ETF. Following consultation, WisdomTree Inc has changed the name of WisdomTree Energy Transition Metals and Rare Earths Miners Index to align with the Fund Name Change described above. The Index name change will take effect on 16 April 2025.

    C.      Index methodology changes

    As “WisdomTree Global Sustainable Equity UCITS ETF” references the term “Sustainability” in its name, the Index used by the Fund has been updated to incorporate the PAB Exclusions (the “Index Methodology Change”). We will be updating the “Index Description” section of the Supplement to reflect these additional exclusions required under the PAB Exclusions which have not resulted in any material change to the Fund. The Index Methodology Change will only cause a change in the underlying components of the Index on its rebalance date, being 16 May 2025. All other key features of the Fund will remain the same and for the avoidance of doubt, the Fund’s SFDR classification as Article 9 will not change and the Fund’s investment strategy and minimum sustainable investment commitment will be unchanged. For more information, please see the updated Index methodology at Solactive Methodology Change | Solactive WisdomTree Global Sustainable Equity UCITS Index

    All capitalised terms used in this notice shall bear the same meaning as the capitalised and defined terms used in the Prospectus.

    Should you have any questions in relation to the above, please do not hesitate to contact WisdomTree UK Limited at Europesupport@wisdomtree.com

    Yours faithfully

    Director
    WisdomTree Issuer ICAV

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: HSE summed up the results of work to improve financial literacy of schoolchildren

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    © Higher School of Economics

    Over the nine years of work of the HSE structural division “Federal Methodological Center for Financial Literacy in the General and Secondary Vocational Education System” more than one and a half million schoolchildren received knowledge in the financial sphere. This was stated by the director of the center, HSE professor Nikolai Berzon, at the All-Russian scientific and practical conference “Formation of financial culture in the context of digitalization: meanings, practices, results”, which was held on April 10 at the HSE.

    According to him, more than 100 thousand teachers have completed training under the teacher training program. “We have separate training programs for teaching in elementary, middle and high schools. This year we also made a separate program for students,” said Nikolai Berzon.

    To encourage schoolchildren to study the basics of financial literacy, the Financial Literacy Olympiad was created. The winners receive certain preferences when entering universities. “When we held the first Olympiad, about 2.5 thousand people took part in it, in the last one – 42 thousand,” shared Nikolai Berzon.

    The conference included an award ceremony for this year’s winner, 11th-grade student Timofey Matsnev. He set a record by scoring 100 points. According to Timofey, we face problems in the area of financial literacy every day, so today everyone needs to be able to protect themselves from fraudsters. “We face financial issues and problems in the area of financial literacy every day. Every day we need to make some decisions related to this, we need to be able to protect ourselves from fraudsters. Therefore, the relevance of studying financial literacy is not decreasing, but, on the contrary, is increasing every day,” he said.

    Today, young people are much more advanced than the older generation, and this is evident when comparing the general financial literacy index and the financial literacy of young people, noted Lyudmila Presnyakova, Advisor to the Head of the Service for the Protection of Consumer Rights and Ensuring the Availability of Financial Services of the Bank of Russia.

    “Firstly, the financial literacy index of young people is higher than that of the rest of the population, and secondly, it is growing at a faster rate than that of adults. If among adults it increased from 53 to 55 points from 2017 to 2024, which is actually a good growth, which means that the financial literacy of the population as a whole is really changing little by little, then among young people the growth was from 55 to 62 points. Young people not only know technologies better, not only are they quicker to navigate, they demonstrate the very basics of proper financial literacy that we are all working to develop,” she said. Young people behave more consciously in relation to their finances – in particular, they use savings practices more often than adults. And this is a certain challenge for teaching financial literacy. Young people are a complex audience that needs modern examples, “well-pumped teachers,” so the work on training teachers is very important, concluded Lyudmila Presnyakova.

    Alexey Yakovlev, Director of the Finance Ministry’s Department of Financial Policy, is convinced that financial literacy needs to be taught “from school.” Children are a more open audience, and many of them are “much better versed” in modern tools than older Russians, he noted.

    The conference also announced the ceremonial signing of a cooperation agreement between the Federal Methodological Center for Financial Literacy in the General and Secondary Vocational Education System and the Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution “Institute of Correctional Pedagogics”. The agreement was signed by Nikolai Berzon and Deputy Director for General Issues of the ICP Anastasia Belikova.

    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 Europe: European Committee of the Regions Open Day

    Source: European Union 2

    EU Open Day

    On Saturday 10 May 2025, the EU institutions in Brussels will open their doors to the public. Come learn more about the institution that represents regions and cities in the EU and what regional and local elected politicians do for you!

    Come and find out more about the role and activities of the European Committee of the Regions and its political groups.

    Experience the diversity of cultures and traditions at the Festival of regions and cities. Regions and cities will showcase projects, skills and offer tastings of their regional products. 

    We look forward to meeting you and welcoming you surrounded by the regions and cities of Europe!

    ​ Please read the data protection notice about the processing of personal data by the European Committee of the Regions on EU Open Day.​

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Update 285 – IAEA Director General Statement on Situation in Ukraine

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has carried out five deliveries of equipment and other technical assistance over the past week as it remains fully focused on helping to prevent a nuclear accident during the military conflict in Ukraine, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said today.

    Since the beginning of the conflict more than three years ago, the IAEA has now organised a total of 125 such shipments to 29 counterparts in Ukraine, including its nuclear power plants (NPPs), the national operator Energoatom, the country’s regulator, technical support organizations and laboratories, emergency services, organizations handling radioactive material,  as well as health centres offering medical care to plant personnel and others.

    “This technical support is an important component of the IAEA’s overall efforts aimed at ensuring nuclear safety and security in Ukraine. We will continue to provide such critical assistance to Ukraine, prioritizing areas where it is most urgently needed, thanks to the generous donor support,” Director General Grossi said.

    In recent days, the Kharkiv Institute of Physics and Technology received equipment to enhance nuclear security at the site, the South Ukraine NPP received a whole body counter to monitor internal exposures of its operating staff, USIE Izotop – which manages radioactive material intended for medical, industrial and other purposes – received a forklift to support the safe handling and transport of radioactive material, and the Khmelnytskyy and Rivne NPPs received influenza medication and dental care equipment.

    These deliveries were provided with funding from Japan, the United Kingdom and the European Union. Since the start of the conflict, equipment worth almost 17 million euros has so far reached Ukraine. The IAEA is preparing further assistance for delivery.

    At Ukraine’s nuclear sites, frequent air raid alarms and the sound of explosions in the distance continued to highlight persistent risks to nuclear safety. On the night of 9 April, according to information from the site, eight drones were detected flying within 4 km of the South Ukraine NPP.

    At the Zaporizhzhya NPP (ZNPP), the IAEA team based at the site has continued to conduct regular walkdowns to monitor and assess nuclear safety and security, including to the dry spent fuel storage where the team observed the safety and security arrangements, the on-site radiation monitoring laboratory, and on-site warehouses.

    The team also discussed with the plant upcoming electrical maintenance activities as well as staffing levels, training and qualifications at the ZNPP.

    At the Khmelnytskyy and Rivne NPPs, one reactor at each site remains in shutdown for refuelling. On 5 April, two units at the Rivne site had to temporarily reduce their power output due to grid limitations, highlighting the ongoing difficulties caused by the fragile energy infrastructure. Also this past week, the team at the Khmelnytskyy NPP rotated.

    MIL Security OSI –