NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New youth festival coming to York this summer

    Source: City of York

    Young people in York are invited to come along and enjoy the first ever Youth Festival, taking place in Rowntree Park on 23 July.

    The York Youth Festival is being hosted by York Youth Council supported by City of York Council’s Communities Team and will provide a fun, safe space for young people to enjoy music, activities and free food. The event will include a range of free fun activities including axe throwing, footie kickabout, zorbing and many more.

    The festival is being held following the “Make Your Mark” survey in 2024  where the Youth Council heard from over 5,000 young people in the city.

    Will, a member of the Youth Council, said:

    “Our survey revealed that the main priorities for young people in York are opportunities, media and culture, so our festival will help address these challenges, and we can’t wait until we hold the event!”

    To help support the event the Youth Council are working with Emerging Talent to promote local young musicians and youth bands that would like to perform, with slots available for 10 and 15 minute musical sets. The event also offers local community groups free space to hold stands, run activities and host games during the event. Activities will include Zorbing, sports, inflatable axe throw, badgemaking and more.

    Naomi, also a Youth Councillor, added:

    “It’s going to be an amazing event for young people from around the city, giving them a space to get together and have some fun. It’s been great to see how supportive organisations and community groups have been already, and we’re grateful for the council’s support via the Holiday, Activity and Food programme for providing the food and Emerging Talent for providing a valuable platform for young local musical acts.”

    Cllr Bob Webb, Executive Member for Children, Young People and Education, said:

    “It’s been really positive to see how passionate the young people of our city are about building strong relationships and experiencing new cultures.

    “This festival will provide a great space for York’s young people to come together and make new friends whilst building their independence.”

    The festival will take place at Rowntree Park from 2pm to 5pm on Wednesday 23 July. There’s no need to book, simply turn up and have fun! More information on the event can be found on the Youth Council website at www.york.gov.uk/york-youth-council/york-youth-festival.

    Anyone interested in a musical slot should get in touch with Emerging Talents by emailing Mark and Julie Ellerker at theelkyork@gmail.com.

    Anyone interested in providing an activity or stall should contact the Communities Officer, Shiona at yorkyouthcouncil@york.gov.uk.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Supporting more people on their journey of recovery from addiction in York

    Source: City of York

    City of York Council is leading by example to support more people on their journey to recovery from addiction.

    City of York Council is leading by example to support more people on their journey to recovery from addiction.

    The council is actively working with a number of recovery organisations in York to bring a city centre recovery hub to life, as well as making steps towards becoming a champion for York as an Inclusive Recovery City, tackling stigma and discrimination against people with addictions and celebrating their recovery by making it visible.

    Drugs and alcohol continue to present major issues for health and wellbeing in York. They lead to early illness and death, and in fact are the two leading causes of death in York for those between the ages of 15 and 49.

    They give rise to thousands of hospital admissions a year, worsen or lead to the onset of mental health conditions, and precipitate a large range of consequent physical health issues

    They also present a city issue, and interact considerably with significant issues around housing, criminal justice, community cohesion, employment and safety, holding people back from living thriving and empowered lives.

    Nationally, the approach to supporting people with drug and alcohol issues has developed significantly over the last decades, from a sole emphasis on treatment and clinical services, such as substitution therapy, to a much greater focus on recovery.

    The council wants to strengthen York’s community recovery model, to further these aims and improve the lives of people affected by addictions in York.

    Whilst there has been and continues to be various activities taking place around recovery in the city, they have never had a home to develop and grow.

    The hub, based on Wellington Row, will make it easier for people with substance use disorders to seek help. This is set to be endorsed by the council’s Executive when they’re asked to support a new contract at a public meeting on 15 July, to award York in Recovery CIC to lease and manage the Community Recovery Hub.

    Cllr Lucy Steels- Walshaw, Executive Member for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care at City of York Council, said “The recovery hub is providing a recovery-oriented facility to those residents who need this type of specialist support, in the heart of York. Endorsement of the Inclusive Recovery Cities initiative shows a strong council commitment to making recovery accessible and sustainable for more people, while sending a strong signal that those in recovery in our city have the right support behind them on their journey.”

    These community connections have been going for many years, with pop-up cafes, meetings, activities, support and social events happening most days of the week.

    Organisations including SMART UK, Alcoholic Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Cocaine Anonymous, York in Recovery, Lived Insights, as well as charities such as Chocolate & Co and the treatment providers Change Grow Live and Emerging Futures, facilitate a vibrant recovery community in York involving many thousands of people.

    A pilot of how a Community Recovery Hub could work took place 18 months ago, and the opportunity has now come to The Hub, Wellington Row, which is owned by the council, as a more permanent base for this work

    Mark Green from York in Recovery said: “At York In Recovery, we know from lived experience that stigma is one of the greatest barriers preventing people from reaching out for the help they need when struggling with substance use.  Stigma isolates people, delays access to support and too often costs lives.

    “Recovery from addiction can be as lonely as when in addiction, we can all play our part in changing that narrative because recovery is real and when the right help support, and compassion are offered at the right time, people not only survive – they thrive.

    “The Recovery Hub will be a place for recovery curious individuals as much as for those who are already in the recovery community, it will be a beacon of hope to many and will support the work underway with the Inclusive Recovery Cities initiative.

    “York In Recovery are excited about the future and what will grow from the Recovery Hub.”

    Supporting the hub is one step towards supporting people’s journey in recover by the council wants to take this a step further.

    York wants to follow in the footsteps of other countries including America, Australia and New Zealand who have all championed the ‘inclusive recovery cities movement.’ Closer to home Middlesbrough –  became the first official Inclusive Recovery City in 2024.

    Championed by Professor David Best, the movement makes recovery visible, giving hope to those currently experiencing substance use problems and providing ongoing support to those who are in recovery from substance use disorders

    It challenges the stigma which can stop people coming forward for help, contributing to further harm, including as serious as death, for those with substance use disorders. It champions multiple pathways to recovery from substance use disorders and recognises that through doing this, the whole city will benefit.

    The Executive will be asked to express the council’s commitment to the Inclusive Recovery Cities approach and York’s Inclusive Recovery City Vision statement.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New campaign demands an end to catapult cruelty

    Source: City of Canterbury

    Home  »  Latest News   »   New campaign demands an end to catapult cruelty
    An X-ray of a mallard duck injured by a catapult in Herne Bay, showing the ball bearing

    Too many animals across the county are being injured or killed by people using catapults and it needs to stop. 

    That’s the view of Cllr Connie Nolan, Canterbury City Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Engagement, Safety and Enforcement who, in a statement, outlined the ongoing problem with people who target wildlife in our area and announced the launch of Canterbury City Council’s End Catapult Cruelty campaign. 

    The campaign is backing calls from across the country, the county and nationally for a ban on people using catapults in public places and for shops and websites to stop selling them to anyone aged under 18. 

    Speaking after Monday’s meeting of the Cabinet, she said: “Residents have reported people, especially young people, targeting the wildlife in our district.  

    “Innocent animals are being killed and injured in our district and across Kent and that is unacceptable. Something needs to be done to make it stop. 

    “We banned the carrying and sale of knives. We can do it with catapults. 

    “The serious concerns for the welfare of the animals coming under attack or being used as target practice are growing and growing – the government must act. 

    “Unfortunately, it’s not just animals, catapults are also being used to damage cars and buses. It has to stop before someone gets seriously hurt. 

    “While we are waiting for the law to be changed, shops and websites have an overwhelming moral obligation to put a voluntary ban in place and require proof of age before selling a catapult.” 

    Stitches where the catapult ammunition was removed from the duck

    Sarah Jenner is a volunteer with The Bird Magnets of Bubble2bay and has helped rehabilitate injured birds for the past six years. 

    She offers them a permanent home if they cannot be released because of their injuries. This includes a herring gull. 

    Sarah is currently nursing a female mallard duck who was recently shot with a ball bearing in Herne Bay.  

    Another volunteer is raising three mallard ducklings whose mother was shot dead with a catapult.  

    Sarah said: “We support this campaign because we are absolutely appalled and disgusted by how animals are being treated, often driven by ridiculous trends on Tik Tok and Instagram.” 

    The council is calling on councillors, MPs, Kent’s Police and Crime Commissioner, animal welfare charities and, most importantly, members of the public to sign its petition here.  

    There is currently no legal minimum age to buy, own or carry a catapult. 

    In law, catapults are classed as offensive weapons if they are being carried with intent to cause harm. 

    And causing unnecessary suffering is a criminal offence as well as killing wild birds or wildlife with any weapon unless you have a licence. 

    Published: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Monexis Expands Global Reach with Advanced Multi-Access Trading Platform Tailored for All Levels

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As retail and professional traders seek smarter, more personalized tools in today’s dynamic financial markets, Monexis has emerged as a powerful ally—offering a next-generation, multi-access trading platform designed to meet the needs of global investors. Combining real-time data, AI-powered insights, and educational support, Monexis is redefining digital trading through personalized strategies, transparent operations, and user-friendly technology across more than 20 countries.

    With a focus on customized strategies, educational empowerment, and cutting-edge technology, Monexis is redefining what it means to support traders at every level. Headquartered in New York and serving clients in over 20 countries, the company continues to expand its global footprint while maintaining a sharp focus on individual investor success.

    A Tailored Approach to Trading Success

    Monexis distinguishes itself through personalized trading strategies tailored to each client’s financial goals, experience level, and risk profile. Whether a trader is seeking long-term portfolio growth, short-term gains, or diversification through cryptocurrency, Monexis works closely with them to design strategies that are both practical and performance-driven.

    This individual approach ensures that every user has a clear path to follow, one that is based on logic, market data, and their own financial objectives.

    Technology Meets Simplicity on the Monexis Platform
    At the heart of Monexis’s offering is its intuitive and feature-rich trading platform, where technology meets investment insight. The platform is equipped with:

    • Real-time market data
    • Advanced charting and analytical tools
    • Integrated portfolio management
    • Smart strategy builders

    Users can easily monitor their trading activity, analyze performance, and execute trades efficiently. The seamless interface is designed for both beginners and experienced traders, minimizing complexity while maximizing functionality.

    The platform also incorporates customized insights and personalized dashboards, giving traders a competitive edge in fast-moving markets.

    Education and Support as Strategic Tools
    Monexis recognizes that knowledge is a powerful asset in trading. That’s why it offers a comprehensive educational ecosystem to help traders build confidence and sharpen their decision-making. 

    The resource library includes:

    • Text lessons for beginners and advanced traders
    • On-demand video tutorials (VODs)
    • Cryptocurrency fundamentals and strategies
    • Guides on fundamental and technical analysis
    • Tools for trend identification, risk management, and market prediction

    These resources are supported by 24/5 technical support and access to real-time market signals, ensuring traders are never left without guidance when they need it most.

    Whether you’re navigating your first trade or refining an advanced investment strategy, Monexis ensures that education and support are always within reach.

    Globally Connected and Regionally Aware
    Monexis operates in a growing list of countries across the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa, including the United States, India, Brazil, Germany, South Africa, Japan, Australia, and the United Kingdom. This global reach allows the company to deliver culturally and regionally tailored insights while maintaining access to up-to-date international financial news, events, and policy updates.

    Users benefit from detailed market reports, trend analysis, and coverage of global economic movements, all aimed at helping them make informed, timely decisions.

    Account Types Designed for Every Trader
    Monexis understands that traders have different needs and investment capacities. To accommodate this, the platform offers four distinct account tiers, each with its own features and benefits:

    Basic Account (€250 minimum)

    • 24/5 tech support
    • 48-hour withdrawal time
    • Ideal for beginners looking to explore trading

    Standard Account (€2,500 minimum)

    • 24-hour withdrawals
    • 1:100 leverage
    • Bonuses up to 50%
    • Signals and basic consultations

    VIP Account (€10,000 minimum)

    • 12-hour withdrawals
    • 1:200 leverage
    • Bonuses up to 100%
    • Enhanced signals, consultations, and insurance
    • Personal account manager

    Prime Account (€50,000 minimum)

    • 3-hour withdrawals
    • 1:400 leverage
    • Bonuses up to 150%
    • Full access to all tools, training, and personal services

    Each account level is structured to grow with the trader, offering increasingly valuable services and faster execution as investment levels increase.

    Trusted Operations and Transparent Compliance
    Monexis Inc. is legally registered and operates under the laws of the State of New York, United States. The platform adheres to strict AML (Anti-Money Laundering) and KYC (Know Your Customer) protocols to ensure secure, transparent, and compliant operations.
    All users are encouraged to review the platform’s privacy policy, client agreement, AML/KYC policy, and risk notices before opening an account.

    Monexis at a Glance

    • Headquarters: New York, United States
    • Website: www.monexis.org
    • Customer Support: +1 (800) 441‑7760
    • Email: support@monexis.org
    • Global Reach: Clients in over 20 countries
    • Platform Features: Real-time data, technical tools, personalized dashboards
    • Education Resources: VODs, guides, analysis tools, calculators, news
    • Support: 24/5 tech assistance and multilingual customer service
    • Compliance: Full adherence to U.S. regulations, AML/KYC policies

    Conclusion
    Monexis brings together the essential pillars of modern trading: personalized strategy, technological excellence, continuous education, and global insight. With a flexible account structure, round-the-clock support, and a platform designed to empower users of all levels, Monexis positions itself as a reliable and forward-focused trading solution for the global investor community.

    To learn more or to get started, visit www.monexis.org.
    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by the Monexis. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6c7f295b-3cdc-4f79-a007-b281fe2e86d5

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New UK support to power green growth at home while tackling climate change abroad

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    New UK support to power green growth at home while tackling climate change abroad

    Senior Cabinet ministers meet City of London leaders as Foreign Secretary announces new climate support

    • Foreign Secretary announces new funding to make it easier for countries to access UK private sector climate finance and disaster risk insurance, driving UK green growth.

    • Support comes as senior Cabinet ministers meet City of London leaders to discuss UK financial sector’s role in boosting sustainable finance for emerging markets and developing economies.

    • David Lammy to set out the economic opportunity for the UK and the City of London, in line with the government’s Plan for Change—with emerging markets expected to drive 65% of global growth by 2035.

    New support will help millions of people globally deal with the daily impact of climate change, the Foreign Secretary David Lammy has today announced (Tuesday 8 July).

    A £12m commitment for disaster relief finance and insurance will help climate-vulnerable countries better prepare for the impact of disasters like hurricanes and drought. 

    This funding is triggered by certain warning signs—such as a weather event or forecast—to enable faster payouts and a more effective response.

    Backed by the UK financial sector, this will also help drive domestic green growth and unlock jobs, opportunity and security for people in the UK.

    This new funding comes as Cabinet Ministers from the Treasury, Foreign Office, DESNZ and DEFRA will today meet leaders from the financial sector. They will collectively discuss how to champion UK-based investors and financial institutions to channel investment into climate initiatives in emerging markets.

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:

    The climate and nature crisis is the greatest global challenge we face. Failure to act will cause unprecedented environmental damage, fuelling displacement, conflict and famine.

    Tackling this crisis is also a huge opportunity for people and businesses here in the UK, delivering on our Plan for Change. The green sector is worth trillions of pounds, and I’m determined that we seize the economic growth, jobs and security it offers.

    The City of London, the world’s leading sustainable development financing hub, has a crucial role to play in this.

    Today’s measures, in support of the UK government’s Plan for Change, will help unlock sustainable finance from the UK and elsewhere, and ensure developing countries can better manage climate shocks themselves.

    This effort will help foster sustainable growth and protect the most climate vulnerable nations. Global climate investment is increasing rapidly, hitting $2.1 trillion last year, and the government sees the City of London in a prime position to capitalise on this opportunity.

    Last year the UK’s green sector grew three times faster than the economy as a whole, attracting £43bn of private investment. With London ranked as the world’s top sustainable finance centre, the UK is uniquely positioned to grow this industry further by helping to unlock finance for emerging markets that will drive 65% of global growth by 2035.

    The £12 million for pre-arranged finance will cut the cost of responding to disasters and accelerate the time it takes them to recover from such shocks.

    This follows the UK launching a global coalition with its partners last week, to scale up pre-arranged finance tenfold by 2035, alongside a coalition to drive greater investment for developing economies through public markets. This was announced by the Minister for Development Baroness Chapman at the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development in Sevilla, Spain.

    The Foreign Secretary is also today announcing that the UK’s Financial Services Centre of Expertise will help financial regulators across ASEAN access expertise from the Financial Conduct Authority. The initiative will focus on regulatory alignment across ASEAN markets to deliver green growth opportunities for UK investors. 

    BACKGROUND:

    • It’s the first time multiple cabinet ministers will be attending a meeting with leaders from the City of London together, signalling a growth opportunity on climate action.
    • The UK will be first country to annually publish pre-arranged finance as a percentage of overall crisis finance spending, with the aspiration of increasing this over time.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appointment to the Judicial Pension Board

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Appointment to the Judicial Pension Board

    The Lord Chancellor has approved the appointment of Josephine Maguire as Chair of the Judicial Pension Board.

    The Lord Chancellor has approved the appointment, for 3 years from 1 July 2025, of Josephine Maguire as Chair of the Judicial Pension Board.

    Josephine Maguire is a Trustee of the DH&S Retirement and Death Benefits Plan and the Price Waterhouse Coopers (PwC) Pension Fund. Previously, she was a Pensions Assurance director with PwC and an Executive Director of the Pensions Research Accountants Group.

    In January, she was appointed as the as the Independent Pensions Specialist to the Teachers’ Pension Scheme Pension Board

    Ms Maguire has been Interim Chair of the Judicial Pension Board since 20 May.

    The Judicial Pension Board, established under the Judicial Pension Regulations 2015), helps the Lord Chancellor manage and govern the Judicial Pension Schemes by: ensuring they comply with the requirements of the Pensions Regulator; considering appeals and complaints; and making recommendations in internal dispute processes.

    Appointments are made, by the Lord Chancellor, under the Judicial Pension Regulations 2015 and are regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments. This appointment has been made in line with the Governance Code on Public Appointments.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Get set for the Summer Reading Challenge

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Young readers are invited to sign up at any of the city’s 16 libraries for free, join the adventure and discover a magical world where stories grow.

    The annual Summer Reading Challenge is delivered in partnership with The Reading Agency. Last year over 1,200 young bookworms took part, visiting their local library at least three times and reading at least six titles over the summer.

    Participants can take part in competitions and will receive a certificate and medal on completion of the challenge.

    To support this year’s theme, the city’s libraries will be hosting over 60 free activities including a special launch event at Central Library on Saturday featuring a magic show and balloon art from 11am-1pm.

    Other highlights over the coming weeks includes a visit from Professor Black, digital games, story times and craft sessions. There will also be sessions from ‘Explore Learning’ and other partners. To find out more, visit your local library.

    Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Resident Services, said: “Reading not only helps children to develop their imagination but gives them essential skills for adulthood.

    “We have been supporting the Summer Reading Challenge for well over a decade and it is always very popular with young bookworms and their families, so grab your packs and give it a go.”

    It’s free to join Wolverhampton’s libraries – to find out more, please visit Libraries or call 01902 552025 or follow the library service on social media at Facebook and X.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government and business put forward “Team UK” approach to unleash defence sector’s potential

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Press release

    Government and business put forward “Team UK” approach to unleash defence sector’s potential

    Plans to deliver jobs across the UK by unlocking the full economic potential of Britain’s defence sector are set to be unveiled today (8 July 2025).

    • Recommendations unveiled today by the Defence and Economic Growth Taskforce will build upon 14,000 extra jobs supported by government investment in the defence sector

    • Comes as Defence Tech company Helsing announces the UK’s first Resilience Factory in Plymouth as it accelerates £350m UK investment in Artificial Intelligence

    • Taskforce report puts forward “Team UK” government and business collaboration to drive growth and create jobs as part of government’s Plan for Change

    Recommendations from the Defence and Economic Growth Taskforce will outline key steps – including developing regional Defence Growth Deals – to ensure that working people benefit from the government’s move to increase defence spending.

    New opportunities for UK workers are already on the way with defence tech company Helsing announcing that it will open the UK’s first Resilience Factory this year. The UK technology and its supply chain will create specialist high-value jobs in the South West and across the country, as Helsing doubles the size of its UK business.

    Helsing’s acceleration of its £350m Trinity House private investment will see it provide allied navies with AI-powered miniature submarines to protect critical underwater infrastructure. The advanced manufacturing facility will be based in Plymouth, as the new national centre of marine autonomy.

    The Taskforce’s recommendations will be launched at a Ministry of Defence roundtable chaired by the Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Defence Secretary John Healey later today.

    The report’s key recommendation is for a “Team UK” strategy to ensure the UK is globally competitive, driving innovation, jobs and prosperity across the UK, reforming procurement and contracting processes to grow the UK defence sector – in line with the Strategic Defence Review.

    It also recommends prioritising investment in “dual use” technologies that can be used for both civil and military purposes in the UK.

    The meeting comes as figures published last week show that 151,000 UK jobs are directly supported by the MOD’s spend with industry – an increase of 14,000 on the previous year.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said:

    “A new era of threats demands a new era for defence and security. That’s why we took the decision to prioritise defence spending, increasing it to 2.6% of GDP by April 2027.

    “Through this, and the work of the Defence and Economic Growth Taskforce – including Helsing’s welcome announcement of the first UK Resilience Factory – we are securing our nation and unleashing the economic potential in the Defence sector, benefitting working people across the UK through our Plan for Change.”

    Ned Baker, UK Managing Director, Helsing:

    “Helsing supports the Government’s ambitions for our defences and economy. We are investing in both by opening the first UK Resilience Factory and accelerating our £350m commitment.

    “We have confidence in the Government’s commitment to new technological solutions for defence. Together, we can attract further private investment, equipping our Armed Forces and growing the economy.”

    The Secretary of State for Defence, John Healey, said:

    “In a new era for defence, we are building a new partnership with the UK’s outstanding defence industry, with innovators and with investors.

    “We will equip our Armed Forces for the future and make defence an engine for economic growth through our Defence Industrial Strategy – unlocking investment, reforming procurement, championing innovation and backing companies of all sizes.
    “I welcome the Defence and Economic Growth Taskforce’s report which recognises how we can boost high-skilled jobs across the country and grow our economy while strengthening our frontline forces.”

    The government has already begun work on three of the report’s recommendations:

    • Establishing a defence SME Hub to provide support to new market entrants.

    • Commencing work on a Defence Exports Office in the MOD, as announced in the Strategic Defence Review.

    • Committing to developing Defence Growth Deals across the UK at the Spending Review.

    The remaining recommendations will now be worked through as part of the cross-Whitehall Defence Growth Board and the Defence Industrial Joint Council ahead of the forthcoming launch of the Defence Industrial Strategy.

    The Taskforce, led by the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) with Oliver Wyman and co-chaired by the Chancellor and Defence Secretary, is a unique partnership between government, industry and financial institutions. Its 20 member organisations have collaborated with HM Treasury and the MOD to produce the recommendations.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: GCA Annual Conference 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    GCA Annual Conference 2025

    Registration is now open for the GCA’s 2025 Annual Conference which will take place on Tuesday 30 September.

    The conference will bring together the 14 large retailers, suppliers and industry experts to reflect on changes to the groceries sector, ongoing challenges, support available for suppliers and future priorities. There will also be a session from YouGov taking a closer look at the GCA’s 2025 annual survey results.

    The conference is free to attend, and participants can join online or in person.

    How to register

    In person

    To express an interest to attend in person, in Central London, please complete this form.

    Please be aware that spaces are limited for in-person attendance. If we can offer you an in-person place, we will send you an email confirmation with further information.

    Online

    Alternatively, you can register to join online.

    If you have any questions about the conference, please email enquiries@groceriescode.gov.uk.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: BSTDB Invests EUR 40 million to Support Bulgaria’s Energy Security and Regional Integration

    Source: Black Sea Trade and Development Bank

    Press Release | 08-Jul-2025

    Financing Will Strengthen Bulgarian Energy Holding

    In a strategic move to advance energy resilience, sustainable infrastructure, and economic integration in the Black Sea region, the Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB) has invested EUR 40 million in the latest bond issuance by the Bulgarian Energy Holding EAD (BEH), Bulgaria’s state-owned energy leader and a major electricity exporter in the Balkans.

    The BSTDB financing will support BEH in implementing strategic investment projects in the country, particularly the modernization of the national electricity transmission infrastructure. These investments aim to strengthen the country’s energy security, improve system reliability, and contribute to broader economic development.

    The investment also supports the goals of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC) agenda by fostering infrastructure connectivity and sustainable energy systems — key pillars of regional development and integration among BSEC Member States.

    “Energy sector development is one of BSTDB’s top priorities in Bulgaria and across the Black Sea region,” said Dr. Serhat Köksal, President of BSTDB. “We are pleased to continue supporting Bulgarian Energy Holding’s investment programme, which aligns with our mandate to promote regional economic cooperation and integration. Enhancing energy infrastructure not only serves national needs but also contributes to a more connected and resilient Black Sea energy market.”

    “It is a pleasure to recognize BSTDB as a valued partner supporting our ongoing efforts in the energy sector. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to the development of key strategic projects that will strengthen energy security and promote sustainable development not only in Bulgaria, but across the wider region. We deeply appreciate BSTDB’s support and expertise, and we look forward to continuing our successful cooperation in the years to come,” said Valentin Nikolov, CEO of Bulgarian Energy Holding.

     

    Bulgarian Energy Holding EAD is the parent company of a group of subsidiaries and affiliates active in electricity generation, transmission, and supply, as well as natural gas transmission, supply, storage, and coal mining. BEH plays a central role in Bulgaria’s energy landscape, owning and operating the country’s main electricity generation assets, the national electricity transmission grid, and the gas transmission and transit network. As the public supplier of electricity and gas, it is a strategically vital institution for both domestic energy stability and regional energy cooperation.

    The Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB) is an international financial institution established by Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Georgia, Greece, Moldova, Romania, Russia, Türkiye, and Ukraine. The BSTDB headquarters are in Thessaloniki, Greece. BSTDB supports economic development and regional cooperation by providing loans, credit lines, equity and guarantees for projects and trade financing in the public and private sectors in its member countries. The authorized capital of the Bank is EUR 3.45 billion. For information on BSTDB, visit www.bstdb.org.

     

    Contact: Haroula Christodoulou

    : @BSTDB

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI China: Lin, Wang reach second round at WTT United States Smash

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

    Men’s world No. 1 Lin Shidong and women’s second seed Wang Manyu of China both advanced to the last 32 at the World Table Tennis (WTT) United States Smash on Monday.

    Lin emerged victorious in a full-game battle against France’s Thibault Poret, while Wang swept past Sweden’s Christina Kallberg in straight games.

    Facing Poret, Lin twice held the lead but was pushed to a deciding game by his 34th-ranked opponent before sealing the win with an 11-5 final game.

    “As I haven’t competed internationally for a while, my adaptation to the venue and the table wasn’t that good at the start,” said Lin. “As the match progressed, I became more confident in my shots. Hopefully I will get the shape back as soon as possible and go all out against any opponent.”

    Chinese players had mixed results in the men’s singles first round. Xiang Peng defeated Portugal’s Joao Geraldo three-one, but Lin Gaoyuan fell to Spain’s Alvaro Robles in five games, and Zhou Qihao lost in straight games to Nigeria’s Quadri Aruna.

    In the women’s draw, Wang Manyu controlled the key moments in an 11-9, 11-8, 11-8 win over Kallberg.

    “It was our first encounter, so I made full preparations for what might lie ahead. I just kept patient on crucial points, and tried to reduce unforced errors,” Wang remarked.

    Asked about her goals for the tournament, Wang said, “Raise my game and adaptation game by game.”

    She was joined in the second round by teammate Wang Yidi, who defeated Japanese wildcard Miyu Nagasaki 3-0, and Xu Yi, who edged past Shi Xunyao in an all-Chinese matchup.

    Also on Monday, notable players advancing included Lin Yun-ju of Chinese Taipei, Sweden’s Truls Moregard, and Japan’s Satsuki Odo and Mima Ito. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: Valeura Energy Inc.: Q2 2025 Operations and Financial Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Valeura Energy Inc. (TSX:VLE, OTCQX:VLERF) (“Valeura” or the “Company”) is pleased to provide an update on Q2 2025 operations.

    Highlights

    • Safe ongoing operations, with oil production averaging 21.4 mbbls/d(1) – maintaining full year production guidance of 23.0 – 25.5 mbbls/d;
    • Revenue of US$129.3 million;
    • Taxes of US$15.8 million paid, primarily in respect of the Jasmine asset. No further cash tax payments anticipated for the remainder of 2025;
    • Cash position of US$241.9 million and no debt; and
    • Final investment decision on the Wassana Field redevelopment and construction phase commenced.

    (1) Working interest share oil production, before royalties.

    Dr. Sean Guest, President and CEO commented:

    “During Q2 2025 we demonstrated another safe quarter of ongoing production and drilling operations and took a positive final investment decision on our major redevelopment project at the Wassana field, which is now moving to the construction phase.

    While production volumes are down quarter-on-quarter, our plan had always assumed that production would be weighted to the second half of the year and we are therefore maintaining our full-year production guidance range of 23.0 – 25.5 mbbls/d.

    From a financial perspective, we continue to prioritise balance sheet strength, and firmly believe this will serve our stakeholders well as we pursue opportunities to add value. While the headwinds of lower global oil prices during the quarter are apparent in our revenue of US$129.3 million, we are continuing to invest while maintaining a strong cash position.”

    Q2 2025 Update

    Working interest share production before royalties averaged 21.4 mbbls/d during Q2 2025, a decrease of 10.2% from Q1 2025. Rates reflect the impact of planned downtime and natural declines at Valeura’s larger producing assets, which is consistent with the Company’s business plan. Q2 was anticipated to be the lowest production quarter of the year, and with rates weighted to the second half of 2025, the Company is maintaining its full year production guidance range of 23.0 – 25.5 mbbls/d.

    Oil sales totalled 1.90 million bbls during Q2 2025. The Company recorded a net increase in oil inventory, as measured at the end of the quarter, to a total of 0.93 million bbls at June 30, 2025. In addition, a parcel of 0.24 million bbls of oil was sold just after the end of the quarter, on July 1, 2025.

    Price realisations averaged US$67.95/bbl during Q2 2025, a US$0.67/bbl premium over the weighted average Brent crude oil benchmark. Realised price was down 14% from Q1 2025 given the significant drop in global oil prices.

    Taxes for the Company’s Thai I concession (Jasmine) are due in May of each year for the prior full year, and US$15.8 million was duly paid during the quarter primarily in respect of this asset. Taxes for the Company’s Thai III concessions (Nong Yao, Manora, and Wassana) are due in May and August of each year, however taxable income for the current tax period (2H 2024) was fully offset by tax loss carry-forwards. Given the above, no further tax payments are expected in 2025.

    Despite a relatively low oil price, a full quarter of spending on drilling operations, and scheduled Thai tax payments, Valeura’s cash position at June 30, 2025, was US$241.9 million (with no debt), up slightly from the previous quarter-end. In addition, US$19.6 million in revenue, relating to a lifting on June 25, 2025, was not received until early in July 2025. As a result, this US$19.6 million is not included in the revenue or the Company’s cash balance at June 30, 2025, but will be correctly accounted in the Q2 financials.

    Operations Update
    Production operations are continuing safely on Valeura’s four Gulf of Thailand fields, with no lost time injuries.

    During the quarter, Valeura mobilised its contracted drilling rig to Block G11/48 (Nong Yao, 90% working interest). The drilling campaign is progressing as planned toward its objective of approximately 10 new development wells and is expected to be complete in Q4 2025. The campaign will entail new development wells drilled from each of the three Nong Yao wellhead facilities, and will therefore include the first ever infill development wells on the Nong Yao C platform, which the Company installed in 2024.

    In May 2025, Valeura took a final investment decision on redevelopment the Wassana field in Licence G10/48 (100% interest). The project will entail deployment of a new central processing platform facility on the field, intended to increase production, reduce costs, and create a hub for eventual tie-in of potential additional satellite wellhead platforms. The project is on plan, and moving into its construction phase now. First production is planned for Q2 2027.

    Results Timing
    Valeura intends to release its full unaudited financial and operating results for Q2 2025 on August 7, 2025, and will discuss the results in more detail through a management webcast hosted later that day.

    For further information, please contact:

    Valeura Energy Inc. (General Corporate Enquiries)
    +65 6373 6940
    Sean Guest, President and CEO
    Yacine Ben-Meriem, CFO
    Contact@valeuraenergy.com

    Valeura Energy Inc. (Investor and Media Enquiries)
    +1 403 975 6752 / +44 7392 940495
    Robin James Martin, Vice President, Communications and Investor Relations
    IR@valeuraenergy.com

    About the Company

    Valeura Energy Inc. is a Canadian public company engaged in the exploration, development and production of petroleum and natural gas in Thailand and in Türkiye. The Company is pursuing a growth-oriented strategy and intends to re-invest into its producing asset portfolio and to deploy resources toward further organic and inorganic growth in Southeast Asia. Valeura aspires toward value accretive growth for stakeholders while adhering to high standards of environmental, social and governance responsibility.

    Additional information relating to Valeura is also available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Advisory and Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    Certain information included in this news release constitutes forward-looking information under applicable securities legislation. Such forward-looking information is for the purpose of explaining management’s current expectations and plans relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes, such as making investment decisions. Forward-looking information typically contains statements with words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “plan”, “intend”, “estimate”, “propose”, “project”, “target” or similar words suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook.

    Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, the Company’s anticipated full year 2025 guidance assumptions; no further cash tax payments being anticipated in 2025; timing and composition of future drilling campaigns; the effect of the Wassana redevelopment project on production, costs, and future growth of the G10/48 block; and timing for first production from the Wassana redevelopment project. Although the Company believes the expectations and assumptions reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, they may prove to be incorrect.

    Forward-looking information is based on management’s current expectations and assumptions regarding, among other things: political stability of the areas in which the Company is operating; continued safety of operations and ability to proceed in a timely manner; continued operations of and approvals forthcoming from governments and regulators in a manner consistent with past conduct; ability to achieve extensions to licences in Thailand and Türkiye to support attractive development and resource recovery; future drilling activity on the required/expected timelines; the prospectivity of the Company’s lands; the continued favourable pricing and operating netbacks across its business; future production rates and associated operating netbacks and cash flow; decline rates; future sources of funding; future economic conditions; the impact of inflation of future costs; future currency exchange rates; interest rates; the ability to meet drilling deadlines and fulfil commitments under licences and leases; future commodity prices; the impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine; the impact of conflicts in the Middle East; royalty rates and taxes; management’s estimate of cumulative tax losses being correct; future capital and other expenditures; the success obtained in drilling new wells and working over existing wellbores; the performance of wells and facilities; the availability of the required capital to funds its exploration, development and other operations, and the ability of the Company to meet its commitments and financial obligations; the ability of the Company to secure adequate processing, transportation, fractionation and storage capacity on acceptable terms; the capacity and reliability of facilities; the application of regulatory requirements respecting abandonment and reclamation; the recoverability of the Company’s reserves and contingent resources; future growth; the sufficiency of budgeted capital expenditures in carrying out planned activities; the impact of increasing competition; the availability and identification of mergers and acquisition opportunities; the ability to successfully negotiate and complete any mergers and acquisition opportunities; the ability to efficiently integrate assets and employees acquired through acquisitions; global energy policies going forward; international trade policies; future debt levels; and the Company’s continued ability to obtain and retain qualified staff and equipment in a timely and cost efficient manner. In addition, the Company’s work programmes and budgets are in part based upon expected agreement among joint venture partners and associated exploration, development and marketing plans and anticipated costs and sales prices, which are subject to change based on, among other things, the actual results of drilling and related activity, availability of drilling, offshore storage and offloading facilities and other specialised oilfield equipment and service providers, changes in partners’ plans and unexpected delays and changes in market conditions. Although the Company believes the expectations and assumptions reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, they may prove to be incorrect.

    Forward-looking information involves significant known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Exploration, appraisal, and development of oil and natural gas reserves and resources are speculative activities and involve a degree of risk. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by the Company including, but not limited to: the ability of management to execute its business plan or realise anticipated benefits from acquisitions; the risk of disruptions from public health emergencies and/or pandemics; competition for specialised equipment and human resources; the Company’s ability to manage growth; the Company’s ability to manage the costs related to inflation; disruption in supply chains; the risk of currency fluctuations; changes in interest rates, oil and gas prices and netbacks; the risk that the Company’s tax advisors’ and/or auditors’ assessment of the Company’s cumulative tax losses varies significantly from management’s expectations of the same; potential changes in joint venture partner strategies and participation in work programmes; uncertainty regarding the contemplated timelines and costs for work programme execution; the risks of disruption to operations and access to worksites; potential changes in laws and regulations, including international treaties and trade policies; the uncertainty regarding government and other approvals; counterparty risk; the risk that financing may not be available; risks associated with weather delays and natural disasters; and the risk associated with international activity. See the most recent annual information form and management’s discussion and analysis of the Company for a detailed discussion of the risk factors.

    Certain forward-looking information in this news release may also constitute “financial outlook” within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Financial outlook involves statements about Valeura’s prospective financial performance or position and is based on and subject to the assumptions and risk factors described above in respect of forward-looking information generally as well as any other specific assumptions and risk factors in relation to such financial outlook noted in this news release. Such assumptions are based on management’s assessment of the relevant information currently available, and any financial outlook included in this news release is made as of the date hereof and provided for the purpose of helping readers understand Valeura’s current expectations and plans for the future. Readers are cautioned that reliance on any financial outlook may not be appropriate for other purposes or in other circumstances and that the risk factors described above or other factors may cause actual results to differ materially from any financial outlook.

    The forward-looking information contained in this news release is made as of the date hereof and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by applicable securities laws. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

    This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities in any jurisdiction, including where such offer would be unlawful. This news release is not for distribution or release, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States, Ireland, the Republic of South Africa or Japan or any other jurisdiction in which its publication or distribution would be unlawful.

    Neither the Toronto Stock Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Toronto Stock Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

    This information is provided by Reach, the non-regulatory press release distribution service of RNS, part of the London Stock Exchange. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: Foreign Minister Lin hosts welcome luncheon for Polish parliamentary delegation led by Deputy Horbatowski, announces Taiwan to open market to fresh blueberries from Poland

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    Foreign Minister Lin hosts welcome luncheon for Polish parliamentary delegation led by Deputy Horbatowski, announces Taiwan to open market to fresh blueberries from Poland

    • Date：2025-07-01
    • Data Source：Department of European Affairs

    July 1, 2025  

    No. 227  

    On July 1, Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung hosted a luncheon for visiting deputies of the Sejm of the Republic of Poland—Łukasz Horbatowski, Marek Chmielewski, and Iwona Krawczyk—who also serve on the Polish-Taiwanese Parliamentarian Group. The two sides exchanged views on issues such as bilateral relations, economic and trade cooperation, and cultural exchanges.

     

    In his remarks, Minister Lin pointed out that the Polish-Taiwanese Parliamentarian Group was the largest group of its kind in the Sejm. He thanked members of the Polish parliament for their long-term support of Taiwan through concrete actions. Minister Lin said that cooperation between Taiwan and Poland in economics, trade, higher education, judicial matters, technology, and other domains had continued to deepen in recent years. He expressed hope that, building on the existing foundations, the two countries would further work together to strengthen interactions and exchanges. 

     

    Furthermore, Minister Lin announced that Taiwan had recently approved the import of fresh blueberries from Poland. Once final administrative procedures were completed, he said, the people of Taiwan would have the opportunity to enjoy high-quality Polish blueberries, benefiting both Polish farmers and Taiwanese consumers. Minister Lin also noted that Taiwan possessed a world-leading ICT sector while Poland had outstanding professional talent and production capacity, which presented opportunities for bilateral collaboration in artificial intelligence, drones, and advanced chips. Minister Lin said he looked forward to continued collaboration between the two countries to build resilient and democratic non-red supply chains.

     

    Mr. Horbatowski, who was visiting Taiwan for the first time, expressed his appreciation for Minister Lin’s invitation and said that he was impressed with Taiwan’s advanced political and economic development. He added that Poland, as a major exporter of agricultural products, welcomed Taiwan’s decision to approve fresh blueberry imports and added that he looked forward to continued cooperation in the agricultural and high-tech sectors to enhance the welfare of the people of both countries.

     

    Taiwan and Poland share the universal values of freedom and democracy. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to promote cooperation between the two nations in various fields so as to deepen their resilient partnership, create sustainable prosperity and well-being for the people of Taiwan and Poland, and uphold their hard-earned democratic achievements. (E)

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Discover your roots through free family history course

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    The course, led by Penny Smith from Midland Ancestors in association with the Friends of Wolverhampton Archives and Wolverhampton’s Library Service, is designed for complete beginners and will cover the basic building blocks of research, demystifying key historical documents and providing practical advice on where to find them.

    Over the three weeks, participants will gain a solid foundation in researching family history. The first week offers a guide to recording family history, sources of help, and the registration system, including what to look for on birth, marriage and death certificates.  

    Week two will focus on census records dating back as far as 1841 and examine the 1939 Register, and finally week three will look in detail at church records for baptisms, banns and weddings, and burials, and discuss possible next steps for researchers.

    It takes place on Fridays 10, 17 and 24 October and spaces are limited. People are urged to reserve now to avoid disappointment and will need to be able to attend all three weeks – please email jennifer.lees@wolverhampton.gov.uk for more details.

    Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Resident Services, said: “This course is a brilliant way for people to connect with their roots and uncover the stories of those who came before them.

    “Family history is not just about names and dates — it’s about understanding who we are and where we’ve come from – and I’m delighted we’re able to offer this opportunity, right here in Wolverhampton, free of charge.

    “Penny is very knowledgeable on all things family history and ran a successful course for us last year as part of the Know Your Neighbourhood project.

    “Since then she has run monthly drop-in sessions at Penn Library where people can bring in their research queries, and this course is a great opportunity for residents to explore their personal histories in greater detail.”

    The Know Your Neighbourhood project, supported by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, Arts Council England and national charity Libraries Connected, is designed to widen participation in volunteering and tackle loneliness in 27 disadvantaged areas across England.

    So far Wolverhampton Libraries have delivered over 350 sessions as part of the project with more than 2,100 attendees, covering areas such as local history, arts and crafts, social groups, games and wellbeing.

    To find out more about Midland Ancestors, please visit Midland Ancestors. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Young musicians set to shine at Wulfrun Hall this summer

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Wolverhampton Summer Sounds is a four-night celebration of musical talent taking place at the Wulfrun Hall, University of Wolverhampton at The Halls, from next Tuesday 15 July to Friday 18 July.

    Over 4 nights, 400 members of the Youth Choir, Concert String Orchestra, Keyboard Ensemble, Fusion Fives, Big Top SEND Ensemble, Bhangra Fusion Percussion, the Primary and Secondary Rock ‘n’ Pop groups, Guitar Group, Concert Wind Band, New Wind, Early Strings, New Strings, Jazz Big Band, Youth Wind Orchestra and Youth Orchestra will take to the stage to perform in front of family, friends and the public.

    Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “This concert series will be a powerful showcase of the dedication, creativity and spirit of Wolverhampton’s young musicians. Their talent deserves to be heard and celebrated on the big stage and we hope as many families as possible can join us for these very special performances.”

    The Summer Sounds concert series has been made possible thanks to a generous donation of £10,000 donation from the Friends of Wolverhampton Music Service. They will be raising further funds with a raffle each evening, with the top prize being a CCTV security system, worth £220, donated by Assa Abloy.

    Head of Service Ciaran O’Donnell said: “We provide our concerts entirely free of charge because we think it is really important that parents and supporters get to hear the achievements of their young musicians.

    “And it’s crucial for the performers that they play to a big audience and in the best possible venues, as that provides them with the most authentic experience.

    “We are overwhelmed by this generous donation from the Friends which will enable us to make it a summer to remember for our young musicians.”

    Wolverhampton Music Service provides high quality tuition and musical opportunities for youngsters from schools across the city, including the chance to perform with its flagship groups, Wolverhampton Youth Orchestra and Wolverhampton Youth Wind Orchestra. To find out more, please visit Wolverhampton Music Service.

    The Music Service will be recruiting new members in September – visit Music School – Parents & Pupils Music School Groups for information about each of the groups. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: HY5!s all round as year of achievements is celebrated

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    The event was a celebration of co-production in action — where young people with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND) came together with strategic leaders to reflect on their proudest moments and the positive changes they’ve helped shape.

    The event showcased the work that members of HY5!, along with ambassadors from Broadmeadow Special School, have been doing in a number of key priority areas – creating good quality, accessible and inclusive places and spaces, getting good quality help from well trained workers, and developing good services that enable young people to live their life the way they want.

    Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “HY5! is more than a forum – it’s a movement led by young people with SEND who are determined to make Wolverhampton a more inclusive, understanding, and empowering place for everyone.

    “Their passion, insight and courage is helping to shape a city where every young person – regardless of ability – can thrive.

    “By working in co-production with strategic colleagues we are able to make changes where it matters most, aiming to create better futures for young people and their families.

    “The event was a chance to reflect on these achievements, strengthen partnerships and look ahead to the next chapter of youth-led change in Wolverhampton.”

    To find out more about HY5! and how young people and families can get involved, please visit Wolverhampton SEND Local Offer.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Foreign Minister Lin hosts welcome luncheon for Polish parliamentary delegation led by Deputy Horbatowski, announces Taiwan to open market to fresh blueberries from Poland

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Foreign Minister Lin hosts welcome luncheon for Polish parliamentary delegation led by Deputy Horbatowski, announces Taiwan to open market to fresh blueberries from Poland

    Date：2025-07-01
    Data Source：Department of European Affairs

    July 1, 2025  
    No. 227  

    On July 1, Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung hosted a luncheon for visiting deputies of the Sejm of the Republic of Poland—Łukasz Horbatowski, Marek Chmielewski, and Iwona Krawczyk—who also serve on the Polish-Taiwanese Parliamentarian Group. The two sides exchanged views on issues such as bilateral relations, economic and trade cooperation, and cultural exchanges.
     
    In his remarks, Minister Lin pointed out that the Polish-Taiwanese Parliamentarian Group was the largest group of its kind in the Sejm. He thanked members of the Polish parliament for their long-term support of Taiwan through concrete actions. Minister Lin said that cooperation between Taiwan and Poland in economics, trade, higher education, judicial matters, technology, and other domains had continued to deepen in recent years. He expressed hope that, building on the existing foundations, the two countries would further work together to strengthen interactions and exchanges. 
     
    Furthermore, Minister Lin announced that Taiwan had recently approved the import of fresh blueberries from Poland. Once final administrative procedures were completed, he said, the people of Taiwan would have the opportunity to enjoy high-quality Polish blueberries, benefiting both Polish farmers and Taiwanese consumers. Minister Lin also noted that Taiwan possessed a world-leading ICT sector while Poland had outstanding professional talent and production capacity, which presented opportunities for bilateral collaboration in artificial intelligence, drones, and advanced chips. Minister Lin said he looked forward to continued collaboration between the two countries to build resilient and democratic non-red supply chains.
     
    Mr. Horbatowski, who was visiting Taiwan for the first time, expressed his appreciation for Minister Lin’s invitation and said that he was impressed with Taiwan’s advanced political and economic development. He added that Poland, as a major exporter of agricultural products, welcomed Taiwan’s decision to approve fresh blueberry imports and added that he looked forward to continued cooperation in the agricultural and high-tech sectors to enhance the welfare of the people of both countries.
     
    Taiwan and Poland share the universal values of freedom and democracy. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to promote cooperation between the two nations in various fields so as to deepen their resilient partnership, create sustainable prosperity and well-being for the people of Taiwan and Poland, and uphold their hard-earned democratic achievements. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Alien planet lashed by huge flares from its ‘angry beast’ star

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Scientists are tracking a large gas planet experiencing quite a quandary as it orbits extremely close to a young star – a predicament never previously observed.

    This exoplanet, as planets beyond our solar system are called, orbits its star so tightly that it appears to trigger flares from the stellar surface – larger than any observed from the sun – reaching several million miles (km) into space that over time may strip much of this unlucky world’s atmosphere.

    The phenomenon appears to be caused by the planet’s interaction with the star’s magnetic field, according to the researchers. And this star is a kind known to flare, especially when young.

    “A young star of this type is an angry beast, especially if you’re sitting as close up as this planet does,” said Netherlands Institute for Radio Astronomy astrophysicist Ekaterina Ilin, lead author of the study published in the journal Nature.

    The star, called HIP 67522, is slightly more massive than the sun and is located about 407 light-years from Earth in the constellation Centaurus. A light-year is the distance light travels in a year, 5.9 trillion miles (9.5 trillion km).

    This star and planet, as well as a second smaller gas planet also detected in this planetary system, are practically newborns. Whereas the sun and our solar system’s planets are roughly 4.5 billion years old, this star is about 17 million years old, with its planets slightly younger.

    The planet, named HIP 67522 b, has a diameter almost the size of Jupiter, our solar system’s largest planet, but with only 5% of Jupiter’s mass. That makes it one of the puffiest exoplanets known, with a consistency reminiscent of cotton candy (candy floss).

    It orbits five times closer to its star than our solar system’s innermost planet Mercury orbits the sun, needing only seven days to complete an orbit.

    A flare is an intense eruption of electromagnetic radiation emanating from the outermost part of a star’s atmosphere, called the corona. So how does HIP 67522 b elicit huge flares from the star? As it orbits, it apparently interacts with the star’s magnetic field – either through its own magnetic field or perhaps through the presence of conducting material such as iron in the planet’s composition.

    “We don’t know for sure what the mechanism is. We think it is plausible that the planet moves within the star’s magnetic field and whips up a wave that travels along magnetic field lines to the star. When the wave reaches the stellar corona, it triggers flares in large magnetic field loops that store energy, which is released by the wave,” Ilin said.

    “As it moves through the field like a boat on a lake, it creates waves in its wake,” Ilin added. “The flares these waves trigger when they crash into the star are a new phenomenon. This is important because it had never been observed before, especially at the intensity detected.”

    The researchers believe it is a specific type of wave called an Alfvén wave, named for 20th century Swedish physicist and Nobel Prize laureate Hannes Alfvén, that propagates due to the interaction of magnetic fields.

    The flares may heat up and inflate the planet’s atmosphere, which is dominated by hydrogen and helium. Being lashed by these flares could blast away lighter elements from the atmosphere and reduce the planet’s mass over perhaps hundreds of millions of years.

    “At that time, it will have lost most if not all the light elements, and become what’s called a sub-Neptune – a gas planet smaller than Neptune,” Ilin said, referring to the smallest of our solar system’s gas planets.

    The researchers used observations by two space telescopes: NASA’s TESS, short for Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite, and the European Space Agency’s CHEOPS, short for CHaracterising ExOPlanet Satellite.

    The plight of HIP 67522 b illustrates the many circumstances under which exoplanets exist.

    “It is certainly no sheltered youth for this planet. But I am not sad about it. I enjoy diversity in all things nature, and what this planet will eventually become – perhaps a sub-Neptune rich in heavy elements that did not evaporate – is no less fascinating than what we observe today.”

    (Reuters)

  • Portugal’s Euro campaign still alive after 1-1 draw with Italy

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A last-gasp equaliser by Portugal’s Diana Gomes against Italy in a thrilling 1-1 draw kept her country’s Women’s Euro campaign alive as her strike cancelled out a stunning second-half goal by Cristiana Girelli on Monday.

    Le Azzurre thought they were through to the quarter-finals after Girelli scored in the 70th minute, shifting the ball to her right foot at the edge of the box before unleashing a curling shot into the top right corner that goalkeeper Patricia Morais had little chance of stopping.

    But Gomes brought Portugal level in the 89th when a corner hit the bar and the Portuguese worked the ball back into the box for Gomes to fire home, sending their raucous fans, who chanted and banged drums throughout the night, into utter delirium.

    The draw spoiled Italy’s chance of clinching a berth in the knockout round on Monday, with Spain the only Group B team to have so far guaranteed a quarter-final spot with their 6-2 win over Belgium in the earlier match.

    (Reuters)

  • Women’s Euros: Putellas finds flow state as Spain thump Belgium 6-2

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Spain striker Alexia Putellas scored two cracking goals as her side defeated Belgium 6-2 on Monday to all but guarantee themselves a spot in the knockout stage at the Women’s Euros, with the 31-year-old saying she found a flow state in the game that made it come easy to her.

    Finding herself in the zone on a wet, blustery evening, Putellas picked up her second straight player of the game award and contributed hugely to Spain overcoming a sloppy start to put the Belgians to the sword.

    “I think there are plenty of moments in a game, the team had an excellent performance, and even if we almost always have things we can improve, I believe that team is fine. We feel comfortable, if there’s something that doesn’t work we can change and adapt,” she told reporters.

    Putellas opened the scoring with a typical Spanish goal midway through the first half, punctuating an intricate passing move with a powerful strike, and she netted Spain’s sixth goal late on to cap a fine individual display.

    Asked whether her flow state came from her own performance or from that of the team, Putellas said it was a little bit of both.

    “They go hand in hand; as an individual you think about the group and when you feel we are all together, you flow, it makes me feel good of course,” she explained. “I have this role of creating options, sometimes I finish them, sometimes others do, (but) I’m feeling great.”

    Belgium proved a tough nut to crack but Putellas and her team trusted themselves to score, no matter who ended up getting the goals.

    “When we have them in the low block, we have more options, we are closer to the box. It’s not that it’s better for me or affects my performance, my objective is to choose the best action in every situation,” Putellas said.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI: Consensus estimates ahead of Q2 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Alm. Brand Group hereby publish consensus estimates prior to the announcement of the Q2 results.

    Consensus estimates are also available via: almbrand.dk

    Conference Call

    Alm. Brand Group will report its Q2 2025 results on July 16 at 07:30 CET and host a conference call with management at 11:00 CET on the day of release.

    Dial in for analysts and investors (pincode: 490681):

    Denmark: +45 89 87 50 45

    UK: +44 20 3936 2999

    USA: +1 646 664 1960

    Contact

    Please direct any questions regarding this announcement to:

    Investors and equity analysts:                 

    Mads Thinggaard – Head of Investor Relations & ESG – mobile no. +45 2025 5469        

    Press:        

    Mikkel Luplau Schmidt – Head of Communications and Media Relations – mobile no. +45 2052 3883

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: GPA appoints Carly Ersser as Workplace Services Director

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    GPA appoints Carly Ersser as Workplace Services Director

    The Government Property Agency (GPA) has confirmed the appointment of Carly Ersser as its Workplace Services Director.

    The Government Property Agency (GPA) has confirmed the appointment of Carly Ersser as its Workplace Services Director, solidifying her crucial role in shaping the future of Civil Service workplaces.

    Carly joined the agency as interim director in November last year, following 12 years at HM Treasury leading change programmes, workplace experience and multi-site facilities.

    She will play a pivotal role at the GPA in transforming how the Civil Service operates by leading a team managing modern, efficient, and sustainable office environments across His Majesty’s Government. Carly will continue to lead initiatives that contribute significantly to halving carbon emissions from government offices and achieving net zero goals, reflecting a strong commitment to environmental standards within the public sector property portfolio.

    Mark Bourgeois, the GPA’s CEO, said:

    I am delighted to welcome Carly as a permanent member of the GPA team. She brings great insight from a GPA client perspective and has shown real passion in championing excellence in service delivery with a transformation mindset. Her appointment is an important milestone in the continued stabilisation and improvement at the GPA, as we work with departmental partners to support delivery of the government missions.

    The Director of Workplace Services focus is on creating great places to work for civil servants across the UK, ensuring excellence in workplace experience. Carly’s confirmed leadership carries significant responsibility for the performance, security, and safety of the GPA’s operational estates functions, underpinning the agency’s reputation for managing a secure and effective government office portfolio.

    She said:

    I’m proud to be appointed as Workplace Services Director, and am pleased to officially continue driving forward our commitment to delivering exceptional services across the government office estate. I look forward to building on the partnerships with our clients and customers to meet evolving needs, and to strengthening our collaboration with our strategic partners and suppliers to ensure we continue to provide great places to work for civil servants.

    For media enquiries, email: pressoffice@gpa.gov.uk

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Voice Messaging App ‘buz’ Debuts ‘Kansai Vibes’ Japanese Voice Filter and Social Sharing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — buz, the voice messaging app that recently topped app store rankings across multiple countries, has released a product update today, with a spotlight on Japanese users. The update introduces the Kansai Vibes voice filter—buz’s most technically advanced filter to date—along with a suite of new features designed to enable more user creativity and social sharing.

    Kansai Vibes: Innovation in Voice Filters

    The Kansai Vibes voice filter brings vibrant regional Japanese dialects—like those from Kansai, a south-central region of Japan known for its expressive speech and major cities like Osaka and Kyoto—to life using a completely new speech synthesis approach.

    Instead of simple voice conversion, buz now uses automatic speech recognition (ASR) to transcribe the user’s voice, a large language model (LLM) to rewrite it in the Kansai dialect, and finally text-to-speech (TTS) to generate a fresh, natural-sounding Kansai-accented voice. Each output is randomized, allowing for a variety of tones—from playful and anxious to bold or sarcastic—and featuring both male and female voices.

    The Kansai Vibes launch is part of buz’s broader push to localize content for a culturally diverse audience. By capturing the nuance and personality of one of Japan’s regional dialects, buz is deepening its appeal among Japanese users and other international users who are interested in Japanese culture.

    New ‘Featured’ Tab and Social Video Sharing

    The app’s new update also debuts a Featured tab, where filters come to life with dynamic previews and social-ready content designed to spark creativity and encourage sharing. Users can now export voice-based creations directly to video, complete with visual effects and captions, then easily and quickly post them across social platforms.

    New creative tools introduced in this release include fresh bubble styles, updated text templates, voice-to-video generation, and support for third-party video sharing—making it easier than ever to make voice moments into compelling, shareable content.

    Global Momentum and User Excitement

    buz continues its organic growth, gaining strong traction across many markets as users embrace its fresh take on voice-driven social interaction. The app is also showing strong signs of popularity among young users in Japan and around the world, reflecting its broad cross-cultural appeal. In Japan, buz has ranked #5 in the Apple App Store’s Social Networking category and #7 in Google Play’s.

    Additionally, buz has reached the #1 spot in the Social Networking category of 12 countries on the App Store and four countries on Google Play. It has also ranked among the top 10 social networking apps in 133 countries on the App Store and 53 countries on Google Play, including the US, UK, Germany, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Philippines. This strong viral growth across different markets demonstrates strong growth and momentum in diverse cultural contexts. With 4.9 stars on the App Store and 4.8 stars on Google Play, buz maintains one of the highest user satisfaction ratings in its category.

    Download buz:

    App Store

    Google Play

    About buz

    buz is voice messaging made fast, natural and fun. Developed by Singapore-based Vocalbeats, the leading audio-based and voice-driven messaging app bridges age, language and cultural gaps, and is part of the Company’s vision to create the world’s largest audio platform to better connect and communication. With over 29 million downloads globally, buz enables effortless connectivity among users—anytime and anywhere—through secure, clear voice transmissions and a user-centric interface.

    buz is available on the App Store and Google Play.

    For more information, please visit www.buz.ai.

    About Vocalbeats

    Vocalbeats is dedicated to building the world’s largest audio platforms to better connect and communicate while pioneering innovation in AI-powered products and experiences. The Company fosters a globally diverse and inclusive team, committed to revolutionizing audio platforms by leveraging the synergy of heterogenous perspectives. This commitment ensures the creation of innovative products that resonate worldwide.

    For more information, please visit https://www.vocalbeats.com.

    Media contact: media@vocalbeats.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Infinitesima Metron®3D 300mm System Released for In-line Process Control by Leading DRAM Manufacturer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    News Highlights

    • Ultra-fast, in-line atomic force microscope (AFM), the Metron®3D, goes online for advanced DRAM manufacturing at SK hynix in Korea
    • The Metron®3D is able to generate images at speeds 10× that of a typical AFM, suitable for the rapid pace of high-volume manufacturing (HVM)

    ABINGDON, United Kingdom, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Infinitesima today announced that SK hynix, a full stack artificial intelligence (AI) memory provider, has adopted the Metron®3D 300mm in-line wafer metrology system and released it for use in volume production. The Metron3D provides three-dimensional (3D) process control with sub-nanometre accuracy, crucial for fabrication of SK hynix’s next-generation memory devices.

    The release to production follows an extensive evaluation period, applying the system for characterization across multiple process steps.

    Mr. Young-Hyun Choi, Head of DMI (Defect Analysis, Metrology and Inspection Technology), stated, “Three-dimensional process control at the nano-scale level is becoming increasingly important to ensure high yield in advanced DRAM processes. Infinitesima’s Metron®3D has demonstrated excellent sub-nanometre 3D metrology with the required cost-of-ownership necessary for HVM implementation.”

    The Metron®3D features Infinitesima’s proprietary Rapid Probe Microscope™ (RPM™) technology that provides AFM measurement capability at 10× to 100× typical AFM throughput. The system’s capabilities also include fully automated wafer, data, and probe handling, making it optimal for in-line volume production of semiconductor devices. The investment in this metrology solution highlights SK hynix’s commitment to maintaining technical leadership in the development and manufacture of computer memory.

    “We are delighted to be working with SK hynix; their support and guidance has enabled rapid qualification of our Metron®3D system and deployment in HVM,” stated Peter Jenkins, Infinitesima President & CEO.

    About Infinitesima

    Infinitesima Limited is a UK-based leader in advanced metrology solutions for the semiconductor industry. The company has pioneered an innovative technology combining atomic force microscopy’s 3-dimensional surface detection capability, high-speed laser activation, and the accuracy of interferometry, the RPM™ (Rapid Probe Microscope), protected by an extensive patent portfolio.

    Semiconductor manufacturers increasingly require higher-resolution 3D metrology solutions to control next-generation processes that cannot be addressed by current optical and electron beam techniques. Infinitesima has introduced a high-speed metrology system, Metron®3D, featuring the company’s patented RPM™ technology, to address the growing customer need for in-line sub-nanometre* 3D process control. For more information, visit www.infinitesima.com.

    * 1 nanometre (nm) is 10-9of a meter; a single silicon atom is ~0.2 nm in diameter.

    About SK hynix

    SK hynix Inc., headquartered in Korea, is the world’s top tier semiconductor supplier offering Dynamic Random Access Memory chips (“DRAM”) and flash memory chips (“NAND flash”) for a wide range of distinguished customers globally. The Company’s shares are traded on the Korea Exchange, and the Global Depository shares are listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange. Further information about SK hynix is available at www.skhynix.com, news.skhynix.com.

    Company contacts

    James Robinson, Product Marketing, Director

    james.robinson@infinitesima.com

    Peter Jenkins, President & CEO

    peter.jenkins@infinitesima.com

    www.infinitesima.com

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/6717920

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: GHO Capital to acquire FotoFinder Systems

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GHO Capital to acquire FotoFinder Systems

    Acquisition aligns with GHO’s strategy of investing in high growth areas of the MedTech market to improve healthcare outcomes

    • FotoFinder Systems is the market leader and pioneer in dermoscopy and total body mapping, offering software/AI-enabled skin imaging devices for skin cancer detection and dermatology
    • The Company is well-positioned in a growing market driven by increasing skin cancer incidence, an ageing population, and growing awareness of preventative skin health
    • GHO is uniquely positioned to unlock FotoFinder’s next phase of growth through its transatlantic platform and operational expertise —supporting further global expansion and broader commercialisation into adjacent segments such as aesthetics

    London, UK – 8 July 2025: GHO Capital Partners LLP (“GHO”), the European specialist investor in global healthcare, today announces that it has signed an agreement to acquire a majority holding in FotoFinder Systems (“FotoFinder” or the “Company”), the global market leader in analogue & digital dermatoscopes, total body photography systems and diagnostic software & AI for skin cancer detection and dermatology, expanding its portfolio of MedTech companies innovating in high growth therapeutic areas.

    Founded in 1991 and headquartered in Bad Birnbach, Bavaria, FotoFinder is a pioneer in advanced skin imaging systems and AI-powered diagnostic software, serving clinicians across Europe, the US, and RoW via its direct sales channel and extensive distributor network. Following the acquisition of US-based DermLite in 2024 —the global leader in analogue dermatoscopes based in Aliso Viejo, California — the Company has built a unique platform spanning the full spectrum of skin imaging technologies, from handheld analogue and digital devices to software/AI solutions and fully automated total body mapping systems. FotoFinder’s strong R&D capabilities have driven decades of product innovation and market leadership, delivering best-in-class imaging quality, design, usability, and software/AI — including the first and only MDR-certified AI-assisted dermatoscope in the EU.

    Ken Eichmann and Stuart Quin, Partners at GHO Capital, commented: “We are delighted to announce the acquisition of FotoFinder, a pioneer in advanced skin imaging and AI-enabled diagnostic software. GHO identified FotoFinder through its sub-sector origination efforts and has teamed up with Munich-based EMZ Partners in a bilateral transaction to accelerate growth. FotoFinder, headquartered in Bavaria and founded by Andreas Mayer and family, recently merged with DermLite, based in California and founded by John Bottjer, Nizar Mullani and Thorsten Trotzenberg, to create the global market leader in dermoscopy devices. We are excited to partner with Andreas, John and the combined FotoFinder/DermLite team, along with our partners at EMZ, to leverage our experience of scaling international healthcare platforms.”

    Andreas Mayer, Chief Executive Officer of FotoFinder, said: “I am proud of the legacy that we have built since I founded FotoFinder together with my father over thirty years ago. Over the past three decades, we have grown into the global leader in skin-imaging solutions, which is a testament to the best-in-class quality of our offerings, our innovative AI-backed technology and our world-class R&D capabilities. GHO’s investment represents an inflexion point for the business, with its specialist healthcare industry expertise and unrivalled network, we believe GHO is the ideal partner to support the Company in unlocking this next phase of growth. We look forward to working closely with Jan and the rest of the team as we continue to develop our global expansion strategy.”

    Klaus Maurer, Senior Partner at EMZ, said: “Since our investment in FotoFinder three years ago the Company has achieved continued growth, underpinned by its expanded presence in the US market through DermLite. After extensive discussions and close alignment between GHO, FotoFinder, and EMZ on the Company’s strategic direction, we believe we have laid out the best possible foundation for its future success. With its unrivalled transatlantic expertise and extensive global network, we believe now is the optimal time for GHO to lead the charge on unlocking the synergies between FotoFinder and DermLite and accelerating the growth trajectory of the overall business.”

    Rising skin cancer incidence, an ageing population, and growing patient awareness for regular skin check-ups is driving the increased use of dermoscopy devices. With over 1.8 million new skin cancer cases diagnosed globally each year, there is a growing need for effective tools to support diagnosis and improve diagnostic workflows to support a critical shortage of dermatologists worldwide. FotoFinder’s cost-effective technology shortens diagnostic timelines, streamlines workflows, and supports better clinical decision-making—positioning the Company to meet growing global demand and improve outcomes in skin cancer detection and broader dermatological care.

    With an existing global footprint and best-in-class product portfolio, FotoFinder is strongly positioned for continued growth across global markets. GHO’s unique capabilities in scaling healthcare businesses will allow the Company to further expand its international presence, build on existing synergies between FotoFinder and DermLite to create a fully integrated global platform, continue to deliver technology innovation and accelerate expansion into adjacent markets such as aesthetics, leveraging its existing commercial infrastructure and technology.

    As part of the acquisition, GHO Operating Partner Jan De Witte will join FotoFinder’s Board of Directors as Chairman. Jan will work closely with FotoFinder’s management team to continue to deliver significant growth of the business, leveraging his experience and knowledge in the medical imaging space.

    Transaction details
    The transaction is expected to close in the coming weeks, subject to standard regulatory approvals. FotoFinder is currently majority owned by EMZ Partners. Alongside GHO’s equity commitment, EMZ Partners and management will reinvest to hold a minority position.

    Advisors
    GHO was advised by Hengeler Mueller and Choate Hall & Stewart LLP (Legal), Alvarez & Marsal (Financial & Tax), L.E.K. Consulting (Commercial), Deloitte (ESG) and Palo Alto Strategy Group (Technology).

    -Ends-

    Further information:

    GHO Capital Partners LLP

    T +44 20 3700 7440

    E IR@ghocapital.com

    About GHO Capital

    Global Healthcare Opportunities, or GHO Capital Partners LLP, is a leading specialist healthcare investment advisor based in London. We apply global capabilities and perspectives to unlock high growth healthcare opportunities, targeting Pan-European and transatlantic internationalisation to build market leading businesses of strategic global value. Our proven investment track record reflects the unrivalled depth of our industry expertise and network. We partner with strong management teams to generate long-term sustainable value, improving the efficiency of healthcare delivery to enable better, faster, more accessible healthcare. For further information, please visit www.ghocapital.com.

    About FotoFinder

    Founded in 1991 and headquartered in Bad Birnbach, Bavaria, FotoFinder is a leading manufacturer of cutting-edge skin imaging solutions. The Company provides systems that support early skin cancer detection through Automated Total Body Mapping (ATBM), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and digital dermoscopy. Since 2024, DermLite has been part of the FotoFinder Group. Established in 1999 and based in Aliso Viejo, California, DermLite revolutionized dermoscopy with polarized and hybrid handheld dermatoscopes. With subsidiaries in Italy and the U.S., and a strong global partner network, the FotoFinder Group serves healthcare professionals worldwide, empowering the dermatology community with sophisticated, intuitive solutions that integrate seamlessly into daily practice.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Himax Technologies, Inc. Schedules Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results Conference Call on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 8:00 AM EDT

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TAINAN, Taiwan, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Himax Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: HIMX) (“Himax” or “Company”), a leading supplier and fabless manufacturer of display drivers and other semiconductor products, today announced that it will hold a conference call with investors and analysts on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. US Eastern Daylight Time and 8:00 p.m. Taiwan Time to discuss the Company’s second quarter 2025 financial results.

    HIMAX TECHNOLOGIES, INC. SECOND QUARTER 2025 EARNINGS CONFERENCE CALL
    DATE: Thursday, August 7, 2025 
    TIME: U.S.       8:00 a.m. EDT 
      Taiwan  8:00 p.m. 
         
    Live Webcast (Video and Audio):   http://www.zucast.com/webcast/jwY1jFiZ
         
    Toll Free Dial-in Number (Audio Only):
      Hong Kong 2112-1444
      Taiwan 0080-119-6666
      Australia 1-800-015-763
      Canada 1-877-252-8508
      China (1) 4008-423-888
      China (2) 4006-786-286
      Singapore 800-492-2072
      UK 0800-068-8186
      United States (1) 1-800-811-0860
      United States (2) 1-866-212-5567
    Dial-in Number (Audio Only):
      Taiwan Domestic Access 02-3396-1191
      International Access +886-2-3396-1191
         
    Participant PIN Code: 3321007 #  
         

    If you choose to attend the call by dialing in via phone, please enter the Participant PIN Code 3321007 # after the call is connected. A replay of the webcast will be available beginning two hours after the call on www.himax.com.tw. This webcast can be accessed by clicking on http://www.zucast.com/webcast/jwY1jFiZ or visiting Himax’s website, where it will remain available until August 7, 2026.

    About Himax Technologies, Inc.
    Himax Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: HIMX) is a leading global fabless semiconductor solution provider dedicated to display imaging processing technologies. The Company’s display driver ICs and timing controllers have been adopted at scale across multiple industries worldwide including TVs, PC monitors, laptops, mobile phones, tablets, automotive, ePaper devices, industrial displays, among others. As the global market share leader in automotive display technology, the Company offers innovative and comprehensive automotive IC solutions, including traditional driver ICs, advanced in-cell Touch and Display Driver Integration (TDDI), local dimming timing controllers (Local Dimming Tcon), Large Touch and Display Driver Integration (LTDI) and OLED display technologies. Himax is also a pioneer in tinyML visual-AI and optical technology related fields. The Company’s industry-leading WiseEye™ Ultralow Power AI Sensing technology which incorporates Himax proprietary ultralow power AI processor, always-on CMOS image sensor, and CNN-based AI algorithm has been widely deployed in consumer electronics and AIoT related applications. Himax optics technologies, such as diffractive wafer level optics, LCoS microdisplays and 3D sensing solutions, are critical for facilitating emerging AR/VR/metaverse technologies. Additionally, Himax designs and provides touch controllers, OLED ICs, LED ICs, EPD ICs, power management ICs, and CMOS image sensors for diverse display application coverage. Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Tainan, Taiwan, Himax currently employs around 2,200 people from three Taiwan-based offices in Tainan, Hsinchu and Taipei and country offices in China, Korea, Japan, Germany, and the US. Himax has 2,609 patents granted and 370 patents pending approval worldwide as of June 30, 2025.

    http://www.himax.com.tw

    Forward Looking Statements
    Factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those described in this conference call include, but are not limited to, the effect of the Covid-19 pandemic on the Company’s business; general business and economic conditions and the state of the semiconductor industry; market acceptance and competitiveness of the driver and non-driver products developed by the Company; demand for end-use applications products; reliance on a small group of principal customers; the uncertainty of continued success in technological innovations; our ability to develop and protect our intellectual property; pricing pressures including declines in average selling prices; changes in customer order patterns; changes in estimated full-year effective tax rate; shortage in supply of key components; changes in environmental laws and regulations; changes in export license regulated by Export Administration Regulations (EAR); exchange rate fluctuations; regulatory approvals for further investments in our subsidiaries; our ability to collect accounts receivable and manage inventory and other risks described from time to time in the Company’s SEC filings, including those risks identified in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in its Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2024 filed with the SEC, as may be amended.

    Company Contacts:

    Karen Tiao, Head of IR/PR
    Himax Technologies, Inc.
    Tel: +886-2-2370-3999
    Fax: +886-2-2314-0877
    Email: hx_ir@himax.com.tw
    www.himax.com.tw

    Mark Schwalenberg, Director
    Investor Relations – US Representative
    MZ North America
    Tel: +1-312-261-6430
    Email: HIMX@mzgroup.us
    www.mzgroup.us

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Mahama underscores strong Ghana-Germany partnership

    Source: APO


    .

    President John Dramani Mahama has bid farewell to the outgoing German Ambassador to Ghana, Daniel Krull, during a meeting at the Credentials Hall within the Presidency. The courtesy visit marked the conclusion of Ambassador Krull’s four-year term of duty, which President Mahama described as highly productive.

    President Mahama reiterated Ghana’s commitment to building on the strong foundation of bilateral relations between the two countries. He emphasised the potential for deepened cooperation, particularly in the critical areas of economic development and security.

    The President specifically commended Germany for its consistent support towards enhancing Ghana’s security architecture, citing significant contributions to the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) and capacity-building initiatives for security personnel.

    Addressing the evolving security landscape in the sub-region, President Mahama highlighted the growing threat posed by extreme terrorism, especially prevalent in the Sahel. He expressed Ghana’s readiness to work closely with Germany on targeted capacity training programmes aimed at bolstering regional efforts to combat this menace.

    Touching upon the complex issue of irregular migration, President Mahama outlined Ghana’s collaborative efforts with international partners, including the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and the European Union (EU). He stressed the importance of creating sustainable local opportunities for young people to mitigate the risks associated with perilous journeys across the Sahara and the Mediterranean.

    President Mahama conveyed Ghana’s deep appreciation for Ambassador Krul’s service. “We appreciate you. You’re a friend of Ghana. And you’re welcome to visit any time you miss Ghana. You’re welcome to visit. And I wish you all the best in your future endeavours.”

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency, Republic of Ghana.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Paul Lam visits the Netherlands

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Justice Paul Lam began his European visit in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, on Sunday by meeting  international organisations, judges from the International Court of Justice (ICJ), government officials and the local business community.

    Upon his arrival, Mr Lam met Hong Kong people and overseas Chinese organisation representatives living in the Netherlands and Luxembourg to learn about their work and life, and shared with them Hong Kong’s latest developments in various areas.

    After arriving at The Hague the next day, he visited the Hague Conference on Private International Law (HCCH) and met Secretary General of the HCCH Christophe Bernasconi.

    Mr Lam thanked the HCCH for its support for the secondment programme of legal professionals of the Department of Justice (DoJ) and exchanged views on further strengthening the co-operation between the DoJ and the HCCH, including hosting an international conference about the Hague Conventions during Hong Kong Legal Week in December.

    During a meeting with Secretary General of the Ministry of Justice & Security of the Netherlands Anneke Van Dijk and officials, Mr Lam introduced the latest developments of Hong Kong and discussed issues such as the development and direction of international legal co-operation.

    Afterwards, he had a lunch meeting with the Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the Kingdom of the Netherlands Tan Jian.

    In the afternoon, Mr Lam visited the ICJ of the United Nations and met ICJ President Yuji Iwasawa, to exchange views on the latest developments in international dispute resolution, including the establishment of the International Organization for Mediation with its headquarters in Hong Kong. They also shared views on the training of international legal experts and professionals.

    At the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) Mr Lam discussed the co-operation between the DoJ and the PCA in the fields of capacity building and international law with PCA Secretary-General Marcin Czepelak.

    In the evening, he attended a business seminar and dinner organised by the Netherlands Hong Kong Business Association, and shared with about 100 participants Hong Kong’s distinctive advantage of enjoying the strong support of the motherland while being closely connected to the world under the “one country, two systems” principle.

    The justice chief stressed that Hong Kong’s legal system is credible and reputable, user-friendly, and closely tied with Mainland China and other parts of the world, making Hong Kong’s legal system exceptional among other common law peers.

    Mr Lam will be in Paris for the second leg of his European visit today.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Sinner gets out of jail to reach last eight as Dimitrov retires at Wimbledon

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Top seed Jannik Sinner struggled with an elbow problem and was given an almighty scare before advancing to the quarter-finals of Wimbledon after a cruel twist of fate for his 19th-seeded opponent Grigor Dimitrov who retired injured at two sets up.

    Novak Djokovic continued his quest for Grand Slam glory at the All England Club with a battling victory over Alex de Minaur while five-times major champion Iga Swiatek found her grasscourt wings to fly past Clara Tauson.

    The drama was reserved for the evening clash on Centre Court as Dimitrov, who had pulled out injured in his last four majors, played exquisite tennis to go up 6-3 7-5 2-2 but then crashed to the ground after a big ace to hold serve.

    Sinner, who had been hampered for much of the contest by a right elbow issue after slipping and falling to the turf early on, was left feeling sorry for his opponent who threw in the towel after a short assessment by a doctor.

    “I don’t know what to say because he’s an incredible player. I think we all saw this today,” said Sinner, who was by a tearful Dimitrov’s side while the Bulgarian was attended to.

    “He’s been so unlucky in the past couple of years. He’s an incredible player, a good friend of mine also, and we understand each other very well off the court too.

    “Seeing him in this position… if there would be a chance that he could play in the next round, he would deserve it. Now I hope he has a speedy recovery. Very, very unlucky from his side.

    “I don’t take this as a win at all… just an unfortunate moment to witness for all of us.”

    Sinner later told reporters he would have an MRI scan to check his own injury.

    “It happened very early in the match, first game. It was quite an unfortunate fall. We checked the videos a bit, and it didn’t seem a tough one, but I still felt it quite a lot, especially serve and forehand,” he added.

    “So let’s see… tomorrow we are going to check with MRI to see if there’s something serious and then we try to adjust it.”

    Sinner next faces American 10th seed Ben Shelton, who beat another Italian in Lorenzo Sonego 3-6 6-1 7-6(1) 7-5 to advance to the quarter-finals at Wimbledon for the first time, as did Flavio Cobolli, who downed Marin Cilic 6-4 6-4 6-7(4) 7-6(3).

    ROCKY ROAD

    Djokovic marched into the Wimbledon last eight for the 16th time but the Serbian trod a rocky road before defeating De Minaur 1-6 6-4 6-4 6-4 to keep alive his quest for a 25th major title to surpass Margaret Court.

    Watched from the Royal Box by another great in Roger Federer, the man whose record eight All England Club trophies Djokovic is trying to equal, the sixth seed surrendered the first set in 31 minutes before roaring back to win.

    “We did catch up very shortly,” Djokovic said of his meeting with Federer afterwards.

    “We greeted each other. He congratulated me and said it was a great match. That’s all. It was a very short greeting, but it was really nice to have him around.

    “He’s one of the greatest legends of our game. So it always is extra special when he’s on the stands. I’m glad to break the curse and win in front of him. It’s a big relief.”

    Federer’s fellow Swiss and former doubles partner Belinda Bencic made her first Wimbledon quarter-final in nine attempts after dismissing 18th-seeded Russian Ekaterina Alexandrova 7-6(4) 6-4 in a little under two hours on a breezy Court One.

    The 28-year-old Tokyo 2020 Olympic champion shed tears of joy after she finally broke the fourth-round barrier 15 months since giving birth to her daughter Bella and she said she was surprised at her high level.

    “I’m really happy about it. Of course, I try not to think about it. I feel great on the practice court. When I was coming back, that’s why I felt like I came back earlier than expected, than I expected for myself,” Bencic said.

    “I’m also surprised about how fast the results are coming.”

    She will need all her battling qualities when she takes on seventh seed Mirra Andreeva, the Russian teenager who made short work of American 10th seed Emma Navarro 6-2 6-3 on her Centre Court debut with her idol Federer still in attendance.

    Swiatek shrugged off a slow start to beat Danish 23rd seed Tauson 6-4 6-1 and set up a meeting with Liudmila Samsonova, who saw off Jessica Bouzas Maneiro 7-5 7-5.

    (Reuters)

  • King Charles hosts Macron in first European state visit since Brexit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Britain’s King Charles will welcome French President Emmanuel Macron to Windsor Castle on Tuesday for the first state visit by a European leader since Brexit in a trip aimed at celebrating the return of closer political ties between the countries.

    The grand ceremonial event will be the first for Macron, who enjoys a good personal relationship with the king. The last state visit to Britain by a French president was in 2008, when Nicolas Sarkozy was a guest of the late Queen Elizabeth.

    Britain has been trying to reset ties with European allies since Prime Minister Keir Starmer was elected last year. The talks this week will focus on a range of issues, including how to stop people-smuggling and improving economic and defence ties at a time when the United States is retrenching from its traditional role as a defender of European security.

    Although there have been tensions over the shape of post-Brexit ties and how to stop asylum seekers from crossing the Channel in small boats, Britain and France have been working closely together to create a planned military force to support Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire with Russia.

    Sebastien Maillard, an associate fellow at London’s Chatham House think tank, said the two sides were seeking to repair some of the damage done by the Brexit negotiations in the run up to Britain leaving the EU in 2020, “when France was more or less playing the bad cop”.

    While Macron’s three-day visit is filled with meetings about economic issues and foreign affairs, the first day of the visit is largely focused on pageantry, and heavy in symbolism.

    Prince William and his wife Kate will greet Macron and his wife Brigitte at a military airport in London and will accompany them to Windsor where they will be officially welcomed by the king and Queen Camilla, and gun salutes.

    They will then travel in a carriage procession through Windsor’s streets, attend a military parade and then have lunch with the royal family at the castle.

    On Tuesday afternoon, Macron will travel back to London to speak to lawmakers in the parliament. The day will end with a state dinner at Windsor Castle, including speeches by the king and Macron in front of about 150 guests.

    MIGRANTS’ RETURN DEAL

    The following day Starmer will host Macron at Downing Street where they will discuss how to stop the flow of tens of thousands of asylum seekers across the Channel.

    British officials are hoping that Macron will agree to a pilot of an asylum seekers’ returns deal. This would involve Britain deporting one asylum seeker to France in exchange for another with a legitimate case to be in Britain, thereby disrupting the business model of people-smuggling gangs.

    A record number of asylum seekers have arrived in Britain on small boats from France in the first six months of this year. Starmer, trailing behind Nigel Farage’s insurgent, right-wing Reform UK party in the polls, is under pressure to come up with a solution.

    France has previously refused to sign up to such an agreement, saying Britain should negotiate an arrangement with all the EU countries.

    On Thursday, Starmer and Macron will host a UK-France summit to discuss other bilateral issues and how to support Ukraine. The two could also announce further cooperation on nuclear investment, such as at Sizewell C.

    Macron’s visit is a sign of a new era in relations.

    Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said in his memoirs published last year that Macron wanted to punish Britain after it voted to leave the EU in 2016.

    Britain and France in recent years have publicly clashed over fishing rights and a submarine alliance that united Britain, Australia and the United States, but left France on the sidelines.

    (Reuters)