NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI: Sydbank A/S share buyback programme: transactions in week 22

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company Announcement No 25/2025

    		 Peberlyk 4
    6200 Aabenraa
    Denmark

    Tel +45 74 37 37 37
    Fax +45 74 37 35 36

    Sydbank A/S
    CVR No DK 12626509, Aabenraa
    sydbank.dk
    1 June 2025  

    Dear Sirs

    Sydbank A/S share buyback programme: transactions in week 22
    On 26 February 2025 Sydbank A/S announced a share buyback programme of DKK 1,350m. The share buyback programme commenced on 3 March 2025 and will be completed by 31 January 2026.

    The purpose of the share buyback programme is to reduce the share capital of Sydbank A/S and the programme is executed in compliance with the provisions of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 April 2014 and Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 of 8 March 2016, collectively referred to as the Safe Harbour rules.

    The following transactions have been made under the share buyback programme:

      Number of shares VWAP Gross value (DKK)
    Accumulated, most recent
    Announcement

    895,000

    		  

    374,860,860.00
    26 May 2025
    27 May 2025
    28 May 2025
    29 May 2025 (public holiday)
    30 May 2025 (bankholiday)    		 14,000
    12,000
    12,000
    –
    –    		 445.69
    442.08
    440.24
    –
    –    		 6,239,660.00
    5,304,960.00
    5,282,880.00
    –
    –
    Total over week 22 38,000   16,827,500.00
    Total accumulated during the
    share buyback programme

    933,000

    		  

    391,688,360.00

    All transactions were made under ISIN DK 0010311471 and effected by Danske Bank A/S on behalf of Sydbank A/S.

    Further information about the transactions, cf Article 5 of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council on market abuse and Commission delegated regulation, is available in the attachment.

    Following the above transactions, Sydbank A/S holds a total of 938,074 own shares, equal to 1.83% of the Bank’s share capital.

    Yours sincerely
            
    Mark Luscombe        Jørn Adam Møller
    CEO        Deputy Group Chief Executive

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Police release e-fit of suspect in Islington sexual assaults

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Investigators have released an e-fit of a man who sexually assaulted two women in Islington earlier this year.

    The assaults occurred within 15 minutes of each other on Sunday, 9 March.

    Around 20:40hrs that day, a woman in her 20s reported being followed by a man down Cruikshank Street in Islington. The man sexually assaulted her, before walking away towards Great Percy Street.

    Around the same time, another woman – also in her 20s – was walking along Britannia Street, Islington, when she was approached from behind by a man. He sexually assaulted her, then ran off down Wicklow Street.

    The suspect is described as skinny, wearing a light-coloured t-shirt, dark bomber jacket, and a dark baseball cap. He appeared to be aged in his 30s.

    No arrest has been made at this stage, though investigators are treating the two incidents as linked. They are appealing to anybody who believes they saw a man matching the e-fit on Sunday, 9 March to come forward.

    Anybody who witnessed either of the assaults – or who has potentially relevant information – should contact 101, quoting investigation reference 01/7265403/25.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Uzbekistan and the UK have completed bilateral negotiations on WTO accession

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    Tashkent, June 2 /Xinhua/ — Uzbekistan and the United Kingdom have completed bilateral negotiations on joining the WTO, the UzDaily.uz news portal reported on Sunday, citing the words of Uzbekistan’s chief negotiator Azizbek Urunov.

    “At the end of last month, we were in London to hold bilateral talks with the British side. Now I am happy to announce their completion,” A. Urunov noted. According to him, after returning to Tashkent, the Uzbek delegation carried out all the necessary internal procedures.

    It is noted that the UK has become the 24th country with which Uzbekistan has completed bilateral negotiations on market access.

    According to him, negotiations still need to be held with several WTO member countries to complete the entire process of bilateral agreements. The agreement reached with the UK is considered a significant step forward in the overall process of Uzbekistan’s accession to the international trading system. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: DNO Contemplates Hybrid Bond Issue

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    2 June 2025 – DNO ASA, the Norwegian oil and gas operator, today announced it has engaged Arctic Securities AS, DNB Carnegie (a part of DNB Bank ASA) and Pareto Securities AS as Joint Bookrunners to arrange fixed income investor meetings. Subject to inter alia market conditions and acceptable terms, a new subordinated hybrid bond issue may follow.

    –

    For further information, please contact:
    Media: media@dno.no
    Investors: investor.relations@dno.no

    –

    DNO ASA is a Norwegian oil and gas operator active in the Middle East, the North Sea and West Africa. Founded in 1971 and listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange, the Company holds stakes in onshore and offshore licenses at various stages of exploration, development and production in the Kurdistan region of Iraq, Norway, the United Kingdom, Côte d’Ivoire and Yemen. More information is available at www.dno.no.

    This information is considered to be inside information pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation and is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act. This stock exchange notice was published by Jostein Løvås, DNO ASA Communication Manager, on the time and date set out above.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Vodafone Qatar selects Nokia in major network modernization deal to drive expanded 5G coverage, reliability, and services

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release
    Vodafone Qatar selects Nokia in major network modernization deal to drive expanded 5G coverage, reliability, and services

    • The deal entails Core modernization, expanded 5G capacity, and enhanced broadband to strengthen network reliability, service offering, and efficiency.

    2 June 2025
    Espoo, Finland – Nokia today announced a major agreement with Vodafone Qatar to lead a nationwide network modernization that will enable the operator to deliver faster, more secure, and highly adaptable 5G services to consumers and businesses across the country, while preparing the network for next-generation innovations.

    In a major expansion of the two companies’ partnership, Vodafone Qatar will leverage Nokia’s end-to-end technology to boost network capacity and reduce latency while accelerating time-to-market with new capabilities and introducing greater agility through automation and enhanced security measures.

    As demand for high-speed connectivity surges in Qatar’s rapidly growing digital economy where the ICT sector is forecast to grow at an 8.5% annual rate through 2030, the operator is committed to meet those needs. Nokia’s solutions will help transform the network with intelligent broadband access, new enterprise offerings provided through 5G slicing, and infrastructure that can easily evolve as digital applications advance.

    “Vodafone Qatar continuously embraces new opportunities to deploy emerging technologies as part of its commitment to driving digital transformation in Qatar, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. Our work with Nokia enables us to become more agile and responsive to the evolving needs of customers and businesses. By integrating advanced fiber, mobile, and cloud capabilities, we are shaping a smarter, more secure network that can support everything from customized home Wi-Fi to the latest enterprise technologies,” said Sheikh Hamad Abdulla Jassim Al-Thani, Chief Executive Officer, Vodafone Qatar.

    “This collaboration reflects the depth of our portfolio and the strength of our partnership with Vodafone Qatar. Through more flexible scaling, reliability, and near zero-touch automation that our advanced core and broadband solutions deliver, Nokia will provide greater network agility and service offerings, and provide our partner with all the tools they need to more efficiently manage and extract greater value from their network assets,” said Raghav Sahgal, President of Cloud and Network Services, Nokia.

    Nokia’s multi-cloud core software solutions, including Packet Core, Converged Charging, and Networks Data Analytics Function, running on the latest cloud technologies will bring cloud-native grade automation, agility, and scalability to Vodafone Qatar’s multi-access core network.

    Nokia Digital Operations software will boost the operator’s journey towards fully autonomous networks with end-to-end orchestration, 5G slicing automation, and AI-driven assurance, enabling rapid delivery and highest reliability of services.

    Nokia’s integration of automation across IP and optical networks, provided by NSP, combined with a five-year managed services agreement for core operations, will help accelerate service rollouts, reduce costs, and ensure a future-ready network architecture.

    Together, these advancements will set a new standard for end-to-end digital transformation in Qatar and reaffirm Nokia’s position as a trusted technology partner for service providers worldwide.

    Multimedia, technical information and related news
    Web Page: Cloud and Network Services
    Web Page: Mobile Networks
    Web Page: Network Infrastructure

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs, which is celebrating 100 years of innovation. 

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable, and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    About Vodafone Qatar P.Q.S.C
    Vodafone Qatar P.Q.S.C. (“Vodafone Qatar”) provides a comprehensive range of services including voice, messaging, data, fixed communications, IoT and ICT managed services in the State of Qatar, for both consumers and businesses alike. The Company commenced commercial operations in 2009 and has 2.1 million mobile customers as of 31 March 2025. Its state-of-the-art network infrastructure is expanding to cover key locations in the country with fibre connectivity and 5G, along with an extensive digital ecosystem, which will contribute to Qatar’s continued growth and prosperity. Vodafone Qatar’s vision is deeply rooted in its mission to connect today’s ideas with the technologies of tomorrow by pioneering digital innovation and becoming people’s first choice in telecom and digital services. Please visit www.vodafone.qa for more details.

    Media inquiries
    Nokia Press Office
    Email: Press.Services@nokia.com

    Vodafone Qatar Media Relations
    Email: mediarelations.qatar@vodafone.qa

    Follow us on social media
    LinkedIn X Instagram Facebook YouTube

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BW Offshore: First quarter results 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    First quarter results 2025

    HIGHLIGHTS

    • Q1 EBITDA USD of 91 million and operating cashflow of USD 57 million
    • Sale of BW Pioneer for USD 125 million
    • Received USD 36 million arbitration settlement in April, USD 21 million recognised in EBITDA
    • Robust balance sheet with an equity ratio of 30.9% and USD 542 million in available liquidity
    • Q1 cash dividend of USD 0.063 per share
    • BW Opal departed the shipyard in Singapore 28 May
    • Full-year 2025 EBITDA guidance maintained in the range of USD 220-250 million

    BW Offshore is nearing completion of the Barossa project well within the updated budget. On 28 May, the FPSO BW Opal departed the shipyard in Singapore and is currently enroute to the field where hook-up and connection will be undertaken. The FPSO is on track for first gas within the third quarter.

    The Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of USD 0.063 per share. The shares will trade ex-dividend from 4 June 2025. Shareholders recorded in VPS following the close of trading on Oslo Børs on 3 June 2025, will be entitled to the distribution payable on or around 12 June 2025.

    “The BW Opal is on its way to the Barossa field to start producing gas under the 15-year contract, providing material earnings and cash flow to BW Offshore from later this year,” said Marco Beenen, CEO of BW Offshore. “At the same time, we continue to mature selected potential FPSO projects that meet our criteria, with solid counterparties and long-term investment horizons. Our growth strategy is supported by a strong balance sheet, high commercial uptime and robust cash generation from the existing fleet.”

    In late March, the Company completed the sale of FPSO BW Pioneer to Murphy Oil for USD 125 million and received an initial USD 100 million of the proceeds. The remaining USD 25 million was received in the second quarter upon meeting all conditions precedent. The two parties signed a five-year O&M contract, under which BW Offshore will continue to provide operations and maintenance services.

    In early April, BW Offshore received approximately USD 36 million including interest, after settling the arbitration with PRIO (formerly Petrorio) related to the FPSO Polvo lease dispute. This led to the recognition of USD 21 million of additional revenue and EBITDA in the first quarter accounts.

    FINANCIALS
    EBITDA for the first quarter of 2025 was USD 91.3 million (USD 71.9 million in Q4 2024), reflecting good operational performance and the arbitration settlement with PRIO.

    EBIT for the first quarter was USD 73.7 million (USD 30.8 million).

    Gain from sale of fixed assets was USD 14.8 million and relates to the sale of BW Pioneer.

    Net financial items were positive at USD 10.4 million (USD 19.4 million in Q4 2024). This included a net interest income of USD 1.1 million, which reflects USD 4.1 million of interest earned on the arbitration settlement with PRIO (net interest expense of USD 3.0 million). Both first quarter 2025 and fourth quarter 2024 were positively impacted by a valuation gain on the financial liability related to the Barossa project. This was driven by changes in the timing of expected future cash flows due to a later planned start-up of the facility, as well as a favourable mark-to-market adjustment on interest rate hedges.

    The share of loss from equity-accounted investments was USD 4.6 million, including a valuation adjustment on the Barossa finance receivable related to changes in timing of future expected cash flows (loss of USD 9.5 million).

    Tax expense was USD 17.3 million (tax income USD 0.1 million). The increase in tax expenses is mainly due to tax on the sale of BW Pioneer.

    Net profit for the first quarter increased to USD 62.2 million (USD 40.8 million).

    Total equity at 31 March 2025 was USD 1 271.7 million (USD 1 246.6 million) and the equity ratio was 30.9% at (30.8%).

    As a result of strong cash generation from the fleet and asset sales, the Company was net cash positive by USD 184.3 million at 31 March 2025 (USD 74.4 million net cash positive at the end of 2024).

    Available liquidity was USD 542 million, excluding consolidated cash from BW Ideol and including USD 100 million available under the corporate loan facility.

    FPSO OPERATIONS
    The FPSO fleet continued to deliver stable operations in the quarter with a weighted average fleet uptime of 100.0% (99.2% in the fourth quarter), including BW Pioneer.

    BW Adolo contributed positively through the volume-based tariff as production increased to approximately 39,000 barrels per day in the quarter and BW Catcher continued to maintain high commercial uptime.

    On 20 May 2025, BW Energy Gabon took over operations of the FPSO BW Adolo. BW Offshore continues to lease the unit under the same terms, excluding O&M services. A USD 100 million put-and-call option remains in place for 2028. The transition is ongoing and will be supported by both parties through 30 June 2025.

    FPSO PROJECT OPPORTUNITIES
    In January, BW Offshore was selected to perform the pre-FEED study for the Bay du Nord FPSO project by Equinor.

    The Company also progressed the FEED for Repsol’s Block 29 development in Mexico.

    Due to the current high activity related to FPSO-based development projects, BW Offshore recently acquired the FPSO Nganhurra. The vessel has a high-quality hull, well suited for installation of a new topside. Reusing existing energy production infrastructure reduces environmental impact, is cost efficient and enables shorter lead time from project sanction to first oil. The acquisition involves a limited upfront payment, with additional consideration linked to redeployment by June 2027. The unit enhances BW Offshore’s ability to respond to emerging project opportunities and strengthens its position in a supply-constrained market.

    FLOATING ENERGY TRANSITION SOLUTIONS
    BW Offshore is committed to contribute to the energy transition by leveraging FPSO expertise to deliver low-carbon energy and expand into new sectors, focusing on low-emission oil and gas, CO2 transport, gas-to-power and floating ammonia to meet evolving energy demands. The Company maintains a disciplined approach with selective and diligent allocation of capital and a commitment to creating shareholder value.

    BW Offshore owns 64% of BW Ideol, a leader in offshore floating wind technology and co-development with over 14 years of experience in the development of floating wind projects. A shareholder loan of EUR 6.7 million has been provided to support the company’s operations over the next 12 months.

    The 1 GW Buchan offshore wind project in Scotland recently held its third and final public consulting round as part of the preparation for the final consent application later this year. In France, work continued on the three floating substructures for the Eolmed floating wind pilot with installation of the transition pieces which will hold the wind turbines. Commissioning of the three floating turbines is expected by end of 2025.

    OUTLOOK
    Growing energy demand continues to drive interest in developing new infrastructure-type FPSO projects with long production profiles, low break-even costs, and a focus on lower emissions. Increased project complexity, combined with higher construction costs, necessitates financial structures with significant day rate prepayments during the construction period for new lease and operate projects. Alternatively, oil and gas majors may finance and own FPSOs, relying on FPSO specialists for the design, construction and installation scope, combined with operation and maintenance services. BW Offshore is well positioned to offer both solutions.

    In recent years, the number of sanctioned FPSO projects have lagged market expectations. Consequently, there is a growing number of projects at various stages of maturity, reflecting a pent-up demand for FPSOs. Increased FEED and tendering activity are a function of this, and BW Offshore expects that a number of the FPSO projects the Company is engaging with will reach a final investment decision over the next 36 months. These market dynamics, combined with the high level of expertise required for project execution, are expected to enable better risk-reward and improved margins for FPSO companies going forward.

    BW Offshore continues to selectively evaluate new projects that meet required return targets, offer contracts with no residual value risk after firm period, and provide a financeable structure with strong national or investment-grade counterparties.

    BW Offshore expects that the fleet will continue to generate significant cash flows in the time ahead, supported by the USD 5.4 billion firm contract backlog at the end of March 2025.

    Please see attached the Q1 Presentation. The earnings tables are available at:

    https://www.bwoffshore.com/ir/

    BW Offshore will host a webcast of the financial results 09:00 (CEST) today. The presentation will be given by CEO Marco Beenen and CFO Ståle Andreassen.

    Webcast information:
    You can follow the presentation via webcast with supporting slides and a Q&A module, available on:

    BW Offshore Limited – Q1 Presentation Webcast

    Please note, that if you follow the webcast via the above URL, you will experience a 30 second delay compared to the main conference call. The web page works best in an updated browser – Chrome is recommended.

    For further information, please contact:
    Ståle Andreassen, CFO, +47 91 71 86 55
    IR@bwoffshore.com or www.bwoffshore.com

    About BW Offshore:
    BW Offshore engineers innovative floating production solutions. The Company has a fleet of FPSOs with potential and ambition to grow. By leveraging four decades of offshore operations and project execution, the Company creates tailored offshore energy solutions for evolving markets world-wide. BW Offshore has around 1,100 employees and is publicly listed on the Oslo stock exchange.

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Atos Group receives confirmatory offer from the French State to acquire part of its former Advanced Computing business

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press release

    Atos Group receives confirmatory offer from the French State to acquire part of its former
    Advanced Computing business

    Vision AI activities excluded from the transaction

    • Confirmatory offer received from the French State to acquire Eviden’s Advanced Computing business excluding newly separated Vision AI activities
    • Enterprise Value of €410 million including €110 million contingent earn outs, following the exclusion of Vision AI activities
    • Vision AI activities, contributing to more than one third of the operating margin of the formerly considered perimeter, repositioned in Eviden to structure a new business unit
    • The Parties aim to sign a binding agreement1in the coming weeks, with a closing of the transaction expected in 2026

    Paris, France – June 2, 2025 – Following its press release dated November 25, 2024, Atos SE (“Atos” or the “Company”) announces that it has received a confirmatory offer from the French State to acquire its Advanced Computing business, excluding Vision AI activities (comprising mainly the Ipsotek subsidiary acquired in 2021), for an enterprise value (EV) of €410 million, including €110 million earn-outs that are based on profitability indicators for fiscal years 2025 (€50 million that should be paid upon closing) and 2026 (€60 million).
    The revised EV in comparison with the one communicated in November 2024 reflects the reduced scope of the transaction.

    Atos Group’s Advanced Computing business regroups the High-Performance Computing (HPC) & Quantum as well as the Business Computing & Artificial Intelligence divisions. The transaction perimeter is expected to generate revenue of circa €0.8 billion in 2025.

    Eviden will be reorganizing its Vision AI capabilities (based in the UK) around a new business unit to continue its focus on AI, Data and Security as communicated during the Capital Markets Day. With deep expertise in AI-powered video analytics for operations, safety and security (such as abandoned luggage detection, crowd management or manufacturing quality inspection), this structure will support Atos Group organization to deliver improved and higher-value offerings to clients.

    The Board of Directors welcomed the offer, based on the report of the independent expert appointed by the Board, which confirmed that the valuation of the disposed perimeter and the terms of the transaction are at fair market value.

    Atos Group 2028 financial trajectory presented at the Capital Markets Day on 14 May 2025, on the assumption of a disposal of Advanced Computing, remains unchanged.

    About Atos Group

    Atos Group is a global leader in digital transformation with c. 72,000 employees and annual revenue of c. € 10 billion, operating in 68 countries under two brands — Atos for services and Eviden for products. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, Atos Group is committed to a secure and decarbonized future and provides tailored AI-powered, end-to-end solutions for all industries. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea) and listed on Euronext Paris.

    The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.

    Contacts

    Investor relations: investors@atos.net

    Individual shareholders: +33 8 05 65 00 75

    Media relations: globalprteam@atos.net

    1 The binding agreement refers to the put option agreement. A share purchase agreement attached to the put option agreement will be signed upon and subject to completion of the information procedure and consultation with the relevant employee representative bodies. It is also specified that the transaction is subject to approval by the relevant regulation authorities.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Colt, Honeywell and Nokia join forces to trial space-based quantum-safe cryptography

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release
    Colt, Honeywell and Nokia join forces to trial space-based quantum-safe cryptography

    • Tech collaboration will explore ways to protect encrypted data from quantum risk using Low Earth Orbit satellites.
    • Trial to use space-based quantum key distribution to overcome terrestrial distance limitations.

    2 June 2025
    Espoo, Finland – Colt Technology Services (Colt), a global digital infrastructure company, Honeywell and Nokia today announced a collaboration to explore quantum-safe networking using satellite communications. As part of the initiative, the companies are planning to test new ways of protecting encrypted optical network traffic from risks presented when quantum computing potentially breaks through traditional encryption methods, leaving data vulnerable to cyber threats.

    Traditional encryption methods, or cryptography, rely on complex mathematical problems that are difficult for computers to solve, but quantum computers are expected to solve these problems faster, potentially breaking through traditional encryption methods and putting data at risk. One promising advancement in this field is quantum key distribution (QKD), a technology central to the quantum evolution. However, QKD currently faces a major limitation: terrestrial physical constraints restrict its range to around 100 kilometers. To achieve global coverage of QKD, the technology can overcome these limitations by moving into space. Colt, Honeywell and Nokia plan to explore quantum-safe cryptography, trialling space-based and subsea techniques which are resistant to quantum computing attacks.

    The companies will trial quantum key distribution – a method used to securely share encryption keys between two parties – using low earth orbit satellites for ultra-long distances and transatlantic reach. The three companies share a collective goal: enable customers to benefit from the huge potential of quantum computing in ways that help solve pressing challenges, while protecting them from risk. The trial is expected to be of interest to organisations responsible for vast amounts of highly sensitive data such as financial firms, healthcare and pharmaceutical organisations and government bodies.

    “Fundamental to the collaboration between Colt, Honeywell and Nokia is a shared passion and determination to push the boundaries of technology to find solutions which safeguard our customers and help them succeed. At Colt, we do everything we can to make life easier for our customers. It’s why we’re taking action now to protect our customers from future cybersecurity risks, tackling tomorrow’s threats, today,” said Buddy Bayer, chief operating officer, Colt Technology Services.

    “With over five decades of aerospace expertise, Honeywell has witnessed and adapted to the evolution of the global communications landscape. We are proud to continue as a leader in innovating future-proof solutions such as the QEYSSat and QKDSat missions for the quantum era. This collaboration represents a significant step forward in securing the future of critical data: designing solutions to enhance resilience, ensuring long-term data security for critical infrastructure and communications systems,” said Lisa Napolitano, vice president and general manager, Space, Honeywell Aerospace Technologies.

    “Nokia is helping our customers stay ahead when it comes to securing critical data through resilient defense-in-depth strategies. Quantum computing brings great promise, but it’s also a potential threat to the encryption models on which society has relied so far. This collaboration with Colt and Honeywell shows how space-based quantum-safe technologies can help protect networks, safeguarding sensitive information across every domain against future quantum threats,” said James Watt, vice president and general manager, Optical Networks at Nokia.

    Ahead of the trial, Colt, Honeywell and Nokia have drafted a white paper with more detail on the risks, threats and opportunities presented by quantum cryptography. The paper, entitled ’The Journey to Quantum-Safe Networking’ is available to download here.

    The announcement follows a pilot Colt announced in March to explore quantum-secure networking across terrestrial networks.

    Multimedia, technical information and related news
    Web Page: Quantum Explained
    Web Page: Quantum Safe Technologies

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs, which is celebrating 100 years of innovation.

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    About Colt Technology Services

    Colt Technology Services (Colt) is a global digital infrastructure company which creates extraordinary connections to help businesses succeed. Powered by amazing people and like-minded partners, Colt is driven by its purpose: to put the power of the digital universe in the hands of its customers, wherever, whenever and however they choose.
    Since 1992, Colt has set itself apart through its deep commitment to its customers, growing from its heritage in the City of London to a global business spanning 40+ countries, with over 6,000 employees and more than 80 offices around the world. Colt’s customers benefit from expansive digital infrastructure connecting 32,000 buildings across 230 cities, more than 50 Metropolitan Area Networks and 275+ Points of Presence across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa and North America’s largest business hubs.
    Privately owned, Colt is one of the most financially sound companies in the sector. Obsessed with delivering industry-leading customer experience, Colt is guided by its dedication to customer innovation, by its values and its responsibility to its customers, partners, people and the planet.

    About Honeywell
    Products and services from Honeywell Aerospace Technologies are found on virtually every commercial, defense and space aircraft, and in many terrestrial systems. The Aerospace Technologies business unit builds aircraft engines, cockpit and cabin electronics, wireless connectivity systems, mechanical components, power systems, and more. It’s hardware and software solutions create more fuel-efficient aircraft, more direct and on-time flights and safer skies and airports. For more information, visit aerospace.honeywell.com or follow Honeywell Aerospace Technologies on LinkedIn.
    Honeywell is an integrated operating company serving a broad range of industries and geographies around the world. Our business is aligned with three powerful megatrends – automation, the future of aviation and energy transition – underpinned by our Honeywell Accelerator operating system and Honeywell Forge IoT platform. As a trusted partner, we help organizations solve the world’s toughest, most complex challenges, providing actionable solutions and innovations through our Aerospace Technologies, Industrial Automation, Building Automation and Energy and Sustainability Solutions business segments that help make the world smarter and safer as well as more secure and sustainable. For more news and information on Honeywell, please visit www.honeywell.com/newsroom.

    Media inquiries
    Nokia Press Office
    Email: Press.Services@nokia.com

    Sarah Miller – Nokia media relations
    Phone: 613-720-9716 |
    Email: sarah.miller@nokia.com

    Colt Head of PR
    Anne Amlot
    Email: anne.amlot@colt.net

    Honeywell
    Juliet Collins-Achong        
    Phone: +44 7787 282932                        
    Email: juliet.collins-achong@honeywell.com

    Follow Nokia on social media
    LinkedIn X Instagram Facebook YouTube

    Follow Colt on social media
    LinkedIn Instagram TikTok Facebook

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Results of the 2025 Annual General Meeting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    2 June 2025 | SAINT HELIER, Jersey | CoinShares International Limited (“CoinShares” or the “Company“) (Nasdaq Stockholm Market: CS; US OTCQX: CNSRF), a global investment firm specializing in digital assets, is pleased to announce that all of the resolutions proposed at the Annual General Meeting (“AGM”) of the Company, held as of 30 May 2025, were duly passed via poll.

    The Company’s Board of Directors wished to highlight the following:

    Resolution 13 – Resolution regarding authorising the Board of Directors to decide on repurchase and transfer of own shares

    The AGM resolved that the Board of Directors shall decide on purchases of the Company’s own shares in accordance with the following terms.

    1. Share repurchases may be made on Nasdaq Stockholm or any other regulated market.
    2. The authorisation may be exercised on one or more occasions before the 2026 Annual General Meeting.
    3. The Company’s holding of shares at any given time shall not exceed 15% of the total number of shares in the Company.
    4. Repurchases of the Company’s own shares may shall be made at a price of no more than 5% above the average trading price of the shares for  the 5 business days prior to the repurchase date.
    5. Payment for the shares shall be made in cash.

    In addition, the AGM resolved to authorise the Board of Directors to decide on transfer of own shares, with or without deviation from the shareholders’ preferential rights, in accordance with the following, terms.

    1. Transfers may be made on (i) Nasdaq Stockholm or (ii) outside of Nasdaq Stockholm in connection with the acquisition of companies, operations, or assets.
    2. The authorisation may be exercised on one or more occasions before the 2026 Annual General Meeting.
    3. The maximum number of shares that may be transferred corresponds to the number of shares held by the Company at the point in time of the Board of Directors’ decision on transfer.
    4. Transfers of shares on Nasdaq Stockholm (or any other regulated market)  shall be made at a price of no more than 5% above the average trading price of the shares for the 5 business days prior to the transfer date. For transfers outside of Nasdaq Stockholm, the price shall be set so that the transfer is made at market terms, except for delivery of shares in connection with employee stock option programs.
    5. Payment for transferred shares may be made in cash, through in-kind payment, or through set-off against claims with the Company.

    The purpose of the authorisations is to give the Board of Directors greater scope to act and the opportunity to adapt and improve the company’s capital structure and thereby create further shareholder value and take advantage of any attractive acquisition opportunities. The authorisation may also be used in order to enable delivery of shares in connection with employee stock option programs.

    The Board of Directors shall have the right to decide on other terms for repurchases and transfers of own shares in accordance with its authorisation. The Board of Directors also has the right to authorise the Chairman of the Board, the Chief Executive Officer, or the person designated by the Board to make such minor adjustments that may be necessary in connection with the execution of the Board’s decision to repurchase or transfer shares.

    Resolution 14 – Resolution regarding amendments to the Company’s Articles of Association

    The AGM resolved that Company’s Articles of Association be amended by deletion of the existing articles 3.6.2, 17.2.7 and 24.12 and the insertion of new articles 3.6.2, 17.2.7 and 24.12 as follows:
    “3.6.2   the Directors may, by unanimous consent only, during any period of two consecutive calendar years, resolve to allot and issue in one or more tranches such number of ordinary shares (including, for the avoidance of doubt, any shares issued pursuant to, in connection with or upon conversion of any subsequently issued convertible bonds) as does not in the aggregate exceed twenty five percent (25%) of the total number of ordinary shares in issue (excluding any ordinary shares held in treasury) at 9am on 1st January of such year (rounded down to the nearest whole share), without the offer, issue  or allotment of such shares or the issue or conversion of any subsequently issued convertible bonds being subject to the provisions of Article 3.2 provided always that any such allotment, issue, or conversion is effected solely in connection with bona fide transactions for business purposes only (and for the avoidance of doubt the terms of this Article 3.6.2 shall not include the issuance of shares or convertible securities as consideration or compensation  for services rendered by employees, consultants, directors, or any other individuals in a personal capacity) and provided further that any issuance or allotment to any natural person pursuant to this Article 3.6.2 shall be subject to the unanimous approval of the remuneration committee as required by and in accordance with the terms of reference for such remuneration committee and shall not in aggregate in any calendar year exceed five percent (5%) of the total number of ordinary shares in issue at the time of such offer;” 

    “17.2.7 the creation of any charge or other security over any assets or property of a Group Company to secure borrowings, or indebtedness in the nature of borrowings, of that Group Company which, when aggregated with all other such borrowings or indebtedness, would exceed £200,000,000 (OTHER THAN in the ordinary course of its Business, and, DISREGARDING any amounts borrowed from other Group Companies) provided always that, subject to applicable law, nothing in these Articles (including without limitation this provision) shall restrict or prevent or be deemed to restrict or prevent the issuance by the Company of any corporate or convertible bonds or other debt instruments on an unsecured basis.”

    “24.12  Notwithstanding anything to the contrary within these Articles, meetings of the Board shall be held at such locations and in such manner, and resolutions of Directors passed in writing shall be signed, so as to cause the Company to:
      24.12.1    be resident for taxation purposes in Jersey; and
      24.12.2    comply with the Taxation (Companies – Economic Substance) (Jersey) Law 2019.”

    36,267,305 shares and votes were registered for the AGM, representing 54.39% of the issued share capital as at 16 May 2025.

    The number of shares in issue (and total voting rights) as at close of business on 16 May 2025 was 66,678,210 ordinary shares carrying one vote each. Therefore, the total voting rights in the Company as at close of business on 16 May 2025 was 66,678,210.

    The full text of the resolutions passed at the AGM can be found in the Notice of the Annual General Meeting (included within the Annual Report) which is available on the Company’s website at https://investor.coinshares.com/c-governance/general-meetings.

    In response to a shareholder question and as previous advised during the 1Q25 earnings call, the CEO reaffirmed his commitment to the Company’s long-standing objective of enhancing shareholder value by securing a listing on a major U.S. exchange such as Nasdaq or the NYSE.

    Several potential paths to listing were outlined, including a secondary listing and reverse takeover structures. The CEO noted that the reverse takeover market in the U.S. is currently active, offering a range of options—from legacy listed entities seeking a strategic reset to clean shells, with or without available cash.

    CoinShares’ strong earnings and robust margins provide meaningful strategic flexibility. At this stage, the Company remains focused on completing its PCAOB historical audit, which is the primary gating item for any U.S. listing initiative.

    About CoinShares

    CoinShares is a leading global investment company specialising in digital assets, that delivers a broad range of financial services across investment management, trading and securities to a wide array of clients that includes corporations, financial institutions and individuals. Focusing on crypto since 2013, the firm is headquartered in Jersey, with offices in France, Sweden, Switzerland, the UK and the US. CoinShares is regulated in Jersey by the Jersey Financial Services Commission, in France by the Autorité des marchés financiers, and in the US by the Securities and Exchange Commission, National Futures Association and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. CoinShares is publicly listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm under the ticker CS and the OTCQX under the ticker CNSRF.

    For more information on CoinShares, please visit: https://coinshares.com
    Company | +44 (0)1534 513 100 | enquiries@coinshares.com
    Investor Relations | +44 (0)1534 513 100 | enquiries@coinshares.com

    This information is information that CoinShares International Limited is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation (596/2014). The information in this press release has been published through the agency of the contact persons set out above, at 08:30 BST on Monday, 2 June 2025.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Pro-Trump candidate wins Poland’s presidential election – a bad omen for the EU, Ukraine and women

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adam Simpson, Senior Lecturer, International Studies, University of South Australia

    Poland’s presidential election runoff will be a bitter pill for pro-European Union democrats to swallow.

    The nationalist, Trumpian, historian Karol Nawrocki has narrowly defeated the liberal, pro-EU mayor of Warsaw, Rafał Trzaskowski, 50.89 to 49.11%.

    The Polish president has few executive powers, though the office holder is able to veto legislation. This means the consequences of a Nawrocki victory will be felt keenly, both in Poland and across Europe.

    With this power, Nawrocki, backed by the conservative Law and Justice party, will no doubt stymie the ability of Prime Minister Donald Tusk and his Civic Platform-led coalition to enact democratic political reforms.

    This legislative gridlock could well see Law and Justice return to government in the 2027 general elections, which would lock in the anti-democratic changes the party made during their last term in office from 2015–2023. This included eroding Poland’s judicial independence by effectively taking control of judicial appointments and the supreme court.

    Nawrocki’s win has given pro-Donald Trump, anti-liberal, anti-EU forces across the continent a shot in the arm. It’s bad news for the EU, Ukraine and women.

    A rising Poland

    For much of the post-second world war era, Poland has had limited European influence.

    This is no longer the case. Poland’s economy has boomed since it joined the EU in 2004. It spends almost 5% of its gross domestic product on defence, almost double what it spent in 2022 at the time of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

    Poland now has a bigger army than the United Kingdom, France and Germany. And living standards, adjusted for purchasing power, are about to eclipse Japan’s.

    Along with Brexit, these changes have resulted in the EU’s centre of gravity shifting eastwards towards Poland. As a rising military and economic power of 37 million people, what happens in Poland will help shape Europe’s future.

    Impacts on Ukraine

    Poland’s new position in Europe is most clearly demonstrated by its central role in the fight to defend Ukraine against Russia.

    This centrality was clearly demonstrated during the recent “Coalition of the Willing” summit in Kyiv, where Tusk joined the leaders of Europe’s major powers – France, Germany and the UK – to bolster support for Ukraine and its president, Volodymyr Zelensky.

    However, Poland’s unqualified support for Ukraine will now be at risk because Nawrocki has demonised Ukrainian refugees in his country and opposed Ukrainian integration into European-oriented bodies, such as the EU and NATO.

    Nawrocki was also backed during his campaign by the Trump administration. Kristi Noem, the US secretary of homeland security, said at the recent Conservative Political Action Conference in Poland:

    Donald Trump is a strong leader for us, but you have an opportunity to have just as strong of a leader in Karol if you make him the leader of this country.

    Trump also hosted Nawrocki in the Oval Office when he was merely a candidate for office. This was a significant deviation from standard US diplomatic protocol to stay out of foreign elections.

    Nawrocki has not been as pro-Russia as some other global, MAGA-style politicians, but this is largely due to Poland’s geography and its difficult history with Russia. It has been repeatedly invaded across its eastern plains by Russian or Soviet troops. And along with Ukraine, Poland shares borders with the Russian client state of Belarus and Russia itself in Kaliningrad, the heavily militarised enclave on the Baltic Sea.

    I experienced the proximity of these borders during fieldwork in Poland in 2023 when I travelled by car from Warsaw to Vilnius, the Lithuanian capital, via the Suwalki Gap.

    This is the strategically important, 100-kilometre-long border between Poland and Lithuania, which connects the Baltic states to the rest of NATO and the EU to the south. It’s seen as a potential flashpoint if Russia were ever to close the gap and isolate the Baltic states.

    Poland’s conservative nationalist politicians are therefore less Russia-friendly than those in Hungary or Slovakia. Nawrocki, for instance, does not support cutting off weapons to Ukraine.

    However, a Nawrocki presidency will still be more hostile to Ukraine and its interests. During the campaign, Nawrocki said Zelensky “treats Poland badly”, echoing the type of language used by Trump himself.

    Poland divided

    The high stakes in the election resulted in a record turnout of almost 73%.

    There was a stark choice in the election between Nawrocki and Trzaskowski.

    Trzaskowski supported the liberalisation of Poland’s harsh abortion laws – abortion was effectively banned in Poland under the Law and Justice government – and the introduction of civil partnerships for LGBTQ+ couples.

    Nawrocki opposed these changes and will likely veto any attempt to implement them.

    While the polls for the presidential runoff election had consistently shown a tight race, an Ipsos exit poll published during the vote count demonstrated the social divisions now facing the country.

    As in other recent global elections, women and those with higher formal education voted for the progressive candidate (Trzaskowski), while men and those with less formal education voted for the conservative (Nawrocki).

    After the surprise success of the liberal, pro-EU presidential candidate in the Romanian elections a fortnight ago, pro-EU forces were hoping for a similar result in Poland, as well.

    That, for now, is a pipe dream and liberals across the continent will now need to negotiate a difficult relationship with a right-wing, Trumpian leader in the new beating heart of Europe.

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

    – ref. Pro-Trump candidate wins Poland’s presidential election – a bad omen for the EU, Ukraine and women – https://theconversation.com/pro-trump-candidate-wins-polands-presidential-election-a-bad-omen-for-the-eu-ukraine-and-women-257617

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Danmarks National­bank’s comments on the Economic Council’s discussion paper, Spring 2025

    Source: Danmarks Nationalbank

    Danmarks Nationalbank generally shares the Chairmanship’s assessment of the growth outlook, along with price and wage developments in the coming years. Despite the trade conflict, there are still prospects for significant growth in Danish exports, partly due to production abroad under Danish ownership, while increases in real wages support growth in private consumption. In its latest projection from March, Danmarks Nationalbank predicted higher growth and, contrary to the Chairmanship, that employment will continue to increase in the coming years. This reflects a subsequent increase in US tariffs and a different assessment of how the current capacity pressure in the economy will affect growth.

    Danmarks Nationalbank shares the Chairmanship’s assessment that there is currently unusually high uncertainty affecting consumers and businesses, e.g. it is difficult to plan investments and supply chains etc. However, Danmarks Nationalbank shares the Chairmanship’s assessment that the Danish economy has a solid foundation without significant imbalances to handle the uncertainty arising from the trade conflict.

    The Chairmanship notes that trade is important, especially for a small, open economy like Denmark. Increased tariffs hamper economic activity, productivity and prosperity as less trade reduces the ability to utilise comparative advantages and capitalise on economies of scale. Danmarks Nationalbank agrees with this.

    Since the bank’s last projection, a number of risks related to the trade conflict have materialised and a number of international organisations have downgraded growth in Denmark’s export markets. Based on a number of model calculations, Danmarks Nationalbank estimates that increased tariffs will weaken economic activity and, in common with the Chairmanship, assesses that there is no prospect of a massive downturn even if further risks related to the trade conflict materialise.

    The Chairmanship assesses that the Danish economy will remain in a moderate boom with a high level of employment in the coming years. Danmarks Nationalbank to a greater extent than the Chairmanship assesses that pressure on the labour market has eased and that it is currently lower than the Chairmanship’s assessment. Overall, Danmarks Nationalbank assesses that the Danish economy is currently in an approximately neutral cyclical stance. This assessment is reflected in the fact that most indicators of pressure on the labour market do not deviate significantly from the period immediately before the pandemic, when developments in consumer prices were weak and wage growth moderate. Lower pressure on the labour market compared to a few years ago is also reflected in this spring’s collective wage agreements in the private labour market, with agreed wage increases compatible with stable, low inflation, as the Chairmanship also expects.

    Based on the assessment that the Danish economy is in a moderate boom, the Chairmanship assesses that fiscal policy is too expansionary for the coming years from a narrow stabilisation perspective, which increases the risk of imbalances building up in the Danish economy. However, the Chairmanship also states that there are currently no clear cyclical imbalances in the Danish economy and that consequently, there are no imminent socio-economic risks in the planned fiscal policy. In its March projection, Danmarks Nationalbank agreed with the Chairmanship that there is considerable uncertainty about future defence spending and how much it will impact capacity pressures. A significant and rapid increase in defence spending could increase capacity pressures and challenge public finances. Danmarks Nationalbank assesses that if capacity pressure increases noteworthy, it should be offset by fiscal policy measures that reduce pressure in the economy accordingly. This assessment reflects that Denmark is currently assessed to be in a neutral cyclical position.

    Danmarks Nationalbank agrees with the Chairmanship that a uniform carbon tax on emissions basically ensures the cheapest reductions in socio-economic terms. Danmarks Nationalbank also agrees that uniform pricing of greenhouse gas emissions in agriculture across EU countries reduces total socio-economic costs, and that it is therefore ideally appropriate to work towards agriculture being covered by a common quota system at EU level.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Electronic ID for Cattle mandatory in step forward for UK biosecurity

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Electronic ID for Cattle mandatory in step forward for UK biosecurity

    Changes introduced to cattle identification, registration, and reporting for cattle in England.

    Cattle identification and traceability in England will change over the next 2 years, in a major step forward in disease control and trade across the farming sector, Defra has announced today (Monday 2 June).

    From Summer 2026, Defra will introduce changes to cattle identification, registration and reporting that will improve the government’s ability to respond effectively to disease. These changes will also simplify regulations and support industry to boost productivity, food security and international trade.

    New requirements will see Electric ID (EID) mandatory for all new-born calves from 2027, using low frequency (LF) technology. This means animals with eID eartags are able to be scanned when animals are moved, rather than a visual read and manual input of the tag number. Electronic cattle traceability will strengthen the UK’s ability to prevent, detect, and respond to animal disease outbreaks, protecting farmers and the rural economy.

    This will be supported by a new cattle movement reporting system which will be easier to use for farmers, markets, abattoirs and regulators alike. This will simplify existing regulations and support the livestock industry to boost productivity, food security and international trade.

    This comes as the government announced a £200 million investment in the UK’s main research and laboratory testing facilities at Weybridge to bolster protection against animal disease, and the recent announcement that livestock farmers in England can apply for a series of free annual vet visits on farm to check for diseases and receive biosecurity recommendations and tailored animal health and welfare advice.

    Biosecurity Minister, Baroness Hayman said: 

    This is a significant milestone in modernising how we manage cattle health, welfare and traceability in England.  

    These reforms strike the right balance in supporting farmers with clearer, simpler rules while helping the sector strengthen its productivity, resilience and global competitiveness.

    UK Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Christine Middlemiss said:

    Electronic identification is a game-changer for disease traceability. It allows for faster, more accurate tracking of cattle movements, which is crucial in responding to outbreaks and maintaining our high biosecurity standards.  

    This shift puts England in step with best global practice and today’s early confirmation will provide the livestock industry the clarity it needs to begin preparing now — ensuring that the right tags, readers and systems are available at scale ahead of rollout.

    Defra will also take a more proportionate approach to enforcement, which will give keepers the opportunity to correct issues before further action is considered, as part of a broader move to reduce red tape while strengthening biosecurity. 

    Following the wide-reaching sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) deal recently agreed at the UK-EU summit, this decision will further benefit livestock businesses in England by reducing trade friction and boosting their ability to export agri-food products abroad. 

    Today’s changes follow the UK Government’s Cattle Identification Consultation 2023 which has been published today, which signalled strong industry support for the measures introduced.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • Indian parliamentary delegation meets PKR leaders in Malaysia, seeks support against terrorism

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    n all-party Indian parliamentary delegation, led by JD(U) MP Sanjay Kumar Jha, met with representatives of Malaysia’s People’s Justice Party (PKR) in Kuala Lumpur on Monday, as part of India’s global outreach campaign following the Pahalgam terror attack and subsequent military response under Operation Sindoor.

    The delegation, which arrived in Kuala Lumpur on May 31, was briefed by India’s High Commissioner to Malaysia, B.N. Reddy. He underscored the strategic importance of India-Malaysia relations and “outlined the Malaysia-specific messaging to strongly convey India’s commitment to combat terrorism under Operation Sindoor.”

    According to a statement from the Indian High Commission, the delegation held “wide-ranging” interactions with members of the Indian diaspora and conveyed India’s “resolute stance against cross-border terrorism.”

    “Diaspora members, including voices from the Malaysian Indian Muslim community, unequivocally condemned terrorism. An appeal was made to amplify the message of unity and zero tolerance through various platforms and communities,” the statement said.

    The delegation also engaged with major Malaysian media outlets and social media influencers, stressing India’s new doctrine that “terror and talks cannot go together” and asserting that any act of terror will now be treated as an act of war.

    “The delegation paid heartfelt homage to the Malaysian national who lost her life in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, emphasizing that terrorism is a global menace that endangers all of humanity,” the statement said.

    Speaking to ANI, delegation leader Sanjay Kumar Jha outlined the significance of the multi-nation tour.

    “Our first visit was to Japan and it was an important country because so many trades of ours happen with Japan…Japan endorsed the stance of the country…Then we went to South Korea…they also appreciated and supported us…in Singapore also…we had positive talks…Jakarta has the highest Muslim population in the world…their stand against terrorism was in support of India…the whole world has criticised the Pahalgam attack,” he said

    He added: “We will be in Malaysia till the day after tomorrow…the President of Malaysia has strongly condemned (Pahalgam attack)…we have made two requests, the first one is that we are not part of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) even though India has a large Muslim population…Pakistan keeps passing resolutions against us…so we have sought support from Malaysia and Indonesia…Pakistan needs to be brought back to the FATF list, so we have kept this demand before all the countries to consider this and extend support to this. Malaysia has supported us in getting a permanent membership in the UN Security Council…,”

    Apart from Jha, the delegation includes MPs Aparajita Sarangi (BJP), Abhishek Banerjee (TMC), Brij Lal (BJP), John Brittas (CPI-M), Pradan Baruah (BJP), and Hemang Joshi (BJP), along with former Union Minister and senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid, and former Indian Ambassador to France Mohan Kumar.

    (With ANI inputs)

  • Kanimozhi-led delegation pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi’s statue in Spain

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An all-party Indian Parliamentary delegation led by DMK MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi began the final leg of its five-nation visit in Madrid on Sunday.

    The Indian Embassy in Spain said in a statement on X: “The All-Party Parliamentary Delegation commenced the final leg of its five-nation visit in Madrid by paying homage to the bust of Mahatma Gandhi. The tribute was a solemn occasion to reflect on and honor the Mahatma’s enduring values of non-violence and peace.”

    Following the ceremony, the delegation engaged with members of the Indian community and emphasized that India remains unshakable and united in its fight against terrorism, which threatens global peace and humanity. The delegation highlighted that its diverse composition reflects a strong national consensus and resolve across political lines to combat this menace. They urged the Indian community in Spain to take pride in their roots, stand united and actively support India’s efforts to promote justice and peace.

    “During the interaction, members of the Indian diaspora shared that their Spanish acquaintances had reacted with shock and concern to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, reflecting growing international awareness of the challenges India faces in combating terrorism,” the statement said.

    The community also expressed strong support for India’s counter-terrorism efforts and conveyed their solidarity with the nation, the statement added. “The delegation is scheduled to engage with members of the Spanish government, parliamentarians and civil society representatives on the final day of their visit. These engagements will provide a platform to brief Spanish leaders on Operation Sindoor and to articulate India’s position as the world’s fourth-largest economy, committed to peace, stability and a resolute stance against terrorism.”

    In another post on X, the Indian Embassy said: “The All-Party Parliamentary Delegation had a insightful interaction with the Indian diaspora, reaffirming India’s unwavering commitment to peace in the face of terrorism. They emphasized that India will lead the global fight against terrorism, upholding the values of peace and resilience. The delegation with humility and conviction, called upon the community to stand united in pride and shared heritage. The diaspora responded with heartfelt enthusiasm, expressing deep solidarity with the nation and a strong sense of identity and belonging.”

    “The All-Party Parliamentary Delegation visiting Spain interacted with Arturo Fernandez Alvarez, a Spanish businessman, who is a survivor of the horrible terror attacks that took place in Mumbai on November 26, 2008. Arturo joined the delegation in condemning the menace of terrorism,” added the embassy.

    Apart from Kanimozhi, the delegation includes Samajwadi Party MP Rajeev Rai, BJP MP Captain Brijesh Chowta (Retd.), RJD MP Prem Chand Gupta, AAP MP Ashok Kumar Mittal, and Former Deputy Permanent Representative of India to the UN, Ambassador Manjeev Singh Puri and Ambassador Jawed Ashraf.

  • MIL-OSI China: Karol Nawrocki wins Poland’s presidential election

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

    Karol Nawrocki, an independent candidate backed by the opposition Law and Justice (PiS) party, won Poland’s presidential runoff election, according to the final vote count released by Polish National Electoral Commission (PKW) early Monday.

    The final result, reading “Elected in the second round,” was written next to Nawrocki’s name on the public website of PKW on Monday.

    Nawrocki, a historian and head of Poland’s Institute of National Remembrance, received 50.89 percent of the vote in the presidential runoff, ahead of Rafal Trzaskowski, the ruling Civic Coalition (KO) candidate and mayor of Warsaw, who garnered 49.11 percent.

    This was Nawrocki’s first presidential campaign — an uphill battle from the start. He consistently trailed Trzaskowski in polls, including Sunday evening’s initial exit survey.

    Born in 1983 in Gdansk, Nawrocki is set to succeed the incumbent president Andrzej Duda, whose second and final term ends on Aug. 6. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lavish Trips and Long-Haul Junkets: Stormont spends over £470,000 on travel outside the British Isles since the return of devolution

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV MLA Timothy Gaston:

    “For some weeks I have been collecting data on the spend of the different Executive departments on travel outside the British Isles since devolution returned. To say I am appalled at the scale and extravagance of ministerial and departmental spending on foreign travel is an understatement.

    “When collated, the responses reveal an astonishing total of £470,000 spent on international travel by Stormont departments in just over a year — and more than £52,000 of that squandered by Ministers themselves.

    “Luxury long-haul flights and costly hotel stays seem to be the norm for the Executive.

    “No department has flown further or spent more widely than the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs. In total, the department spent nearly £78,000, with trips ranging from Brussels to New Zealand, Germany to New York.

    “Three individuals, including the Minister, few to New York Climate Week at a cost of £11,134 — supposedly to discuss sustainability of all things, while burning jet fuel and public money.

    “Officials also attended climate-linked events in Sweden, Spain, and Germany — clocking up thousands more in expenses — with little to no clarity on what outcomes, if any, these junkets delivered for the Northern Ireland public.

    “The Department of Finance racked up over £32,700 in international travel — including a single trip to Brussels by 16 officials from the Departmental Solicitor’s Office, costing the public £17,066. We’re told this was a “bespoke study visit” linked to the Windsor Framework.

    “Can a 16-person legal trip to Brussels be justified? Ministers must explain why such a large group needed to attend, and what real value was achieved.

    “The Minister for Education himself spent over £8,000 on overseas travel in a single year — including trips to Washington DC and Reykjavik, Iceland. Minister Givan’s personal travel and accommodation expenses account for nearly 25% of the total expenses by the Department on foreign travel.

    Among the more concerning examples in the Department of Education are:
    •     Two officials who travelled to Paris and racked up costs of over £2,100 and
    •     A trip to Tokyo which cost £3,366, with no listed outcomes.

    “With education budgets under severe strain, with SEN services stretched to breaking point people working in education will be asking questions.

    “The biggest spenders though are of course the Executive Office. Michelle O’Neill and Emma Little Pengelly’s department has managed to spend over £126,000 on international travel.

    “When people see Ministers parading on the world stage while hospital waiting lists grow at home, it’s not hard to understand the anger. Spending more on a single trip than many people earn in a year is shameful.

    “Across the Executive, this pattern of waste repeats. Ministers and officials racking up air miles while local services go without.

    “When we ask the public to tighten their belts, the very least they should expect is that Ministers do the same.

    “Climate change conferences abroad are no substitute for sound governance at home.

    “Ministerial egos should not be subsidised by people struggling to make ends meet.

    “With many already questioning the value of Stormont, these figures will do nothing to restore public confidence.”

    Note to editors

    You can read the full set of questions and answers online here.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Over 3,300 respond to SIA Get Licensed consultation

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Over 3,300 respond to SIA Get Licensed consultation

    The Security Industry Authority (SIA) public consultation on proposed changes to licensing criteria receives over 3,300 responses.

    The consultation was centred around a number of proposed changes to further strengthen the criteria that determines what makes someone eligible to hold an SIA licence. 

    This included changes to the criteria on criminality and providing greater transparency on the wider ‘fit and proper’ test that all applicants and licence holders must meet. When implemented, the changes would also update the list of relevant offences the SIA takes into consideration in licensing decisions.

    Tim Archer, SIA Director of Licensing and Standards, said: 

    We were very happy to see such a strong level of response to our consultation. The proposed changes are designed and intended to further enhance public protection. Whilst we now need to undertake a detailed analysis of the responses, it looks like our proposals have been strongly supported by those working in the industry.

    Based on the feedback received from the consultation, the SIA will finalise its recommendations and seek ministerial approval in the autumn. If the proposed changes are agreed by ministers, the SIA will update Get Licensed and the new rules will come into effect.

    Background

    The SIA is the organisation responsible for regulating the private security industry in the UK, reporting to the Home Secretary under the terms of the Private Security Industry Act 2001. The SIA’s main duties are the compulsory licensing of individuals undertaking designated activities and managing the voluntary Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS).

    Media enquiries

    For media enquiries only, please contact:

    SIA press office

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Quiz the water experts about Taunton’s bathing water quality

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Quiz the water experts about Taunton’s bathing water quality

    Fancied a dip in the River Tone but unsure about its water quality? Come and ask your questions and share any concerns about the French Weir Park bathing water.

    Water quality experts will be at COACH, French Weir Park, Taunton on Saturday 21 June from 10am to 1pm

    Experts from the Environment Agency, Wessex Water, Somerset Wildlife Trust and Friends of French Weir Park will be ready to answer questions about the River Tone bathing water at the COACH Community Hub in French Weir Park on Saturday 21 June 2025 from 10am to 1pm.  

    These are just a few representatives of the steering group formed to improve bathing water quality at this site, which was officially designated in 2024.  

    Being designated means regular and consistent water samples are taken for analysis at set times of the year to check the levels of bacteria like E. Coli and intestinal enterococci.  However, being ‘designated’ doesn’t automatically mean water meets public hygiene standards for activities like swimming – a problem the new group is tackling.  

    Jim Flory of the Environment Agency said:

    There are strict standards on what goes into rivers to protect wildlife and the natural ecology of our rivers. But the standards to protect human health are higher.  

    A lot of investigation will be needed to uncover what sources of pollution feed into the River Tone. The public can help speed that up by eliminating the most obvious sources like picking up dog poo or looking after their septic tanks. This will free up people to focus on more serious issues.

    Results of all samples taken during the current round of monitoring will be available online at Swimfo to help inform public choice before taking a dip, Environment Agency officers will patrol the surrounding area, looking for obvious sources of pollution entering the watercourse as well as inspecting water company pipes and other types of equipment that discharges water into the river. 

    Background

    • 450 bathing waters in England were sampled last year and classified as either Excellent, Good, Sufficient or Poor. These classifications and information about water quality will be displayed at each bathing water and on bathing water profiles available to access on the Environment Agency’s Swimfo website.  

    • The Environment Agency took 7,420 samples during the 2024 bathing season. The Environment Agency takes up to 20 water samples at each of England’s designated bathing waters during the season.  

    • Our standards for bathing waters come from guidelines produced by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and are science based. They have been adopted by many countries through the EU Bathing Water Directive, which England’s Bathing Water Regulations are based on.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Final People’s Parade preparations underway as Stoke-on-Trent celebrates Centenary

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Monday, 2nd June 2025

    The event is expected to attract thousands of spectators along the route through the city centre.

    Final preparations are underway for the People’s Parade, one of the flagship events of Stoke-on-Trent’s Centenary year, set to take place this Saturday (7 June).

    Working in partnership with Stoke Creates, the parade is set to bring all communities together to showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage and creative spirit.

    The event is expected to attract thousands of spectators along the route through the city centre.

    Access to some roads will be affected by short road closures to allow the People’s Parade to safely follow their route. Some parking bays along the route may also be briefly suspended:

    • 12.30pm – 1.30pm: College Road from Avenue Road to A5006 Broad Street. Access to adjoining roads will be affected.
    • 1.15pm – 1.45pm – Broad St and adjoining roads
    • 2.00pm – 2.30pm – Bethesda Road, Lower Bethesda Road and adjoining roads
    • 2.30pm – 3.00pm – Regent Road and adjoining roads

    The Parade has been planned so only small areas will be closed for a short period of time and immediately reopened as soon as it is safe to do so.

    Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent, Councillor Steve Watkins, said: “Stokie’s unite! The icing on the Centenary cake will be taking place this weekend, with the People’s Parade. It is a monumental time for the city, and we hope you can all come out in force and share that passion and pride for our great city.

    “The streets will be lined with people, all coming together to celebrate Stoke-on-Trent and the salt of the earth folk who make it what it is.”

    Following the parade, a free public event – Party in the Park – will take place at Hanley Park from 1pm to 6pm. The event will feature live music, food vendors, community and charity stalls, and a bar. The celebration is expected to draw large crowds to one of the city’s most historic green spaces.

    Regular updates will be available on Stoke-on-Trent City Council official social media channels, and supported by @StokeCreates.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What is retinol? And will it make my acne flare? 3 experts unpack this trendy skincare ingredient

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Laurence Orlando, Senior Lecturer, Product Formulation and Development, Analytical Methods, Monash University

    Irina Kvyatkovskaya/Shutterstock

    Retinol skincare products suddenly seem to be everywhere, promising clear, radiant and “youthful” skin.

    But what’s the science behind these claims? And are there any risks?

    You may have also heard retinol can increase your risk of sunburn and even make acne worse.

    For some people, retinol may help reduce the appearance of fine lines. But it won’t be suitable for everyone. Here’s what you need to know.

    What is retinol?

    Retinol is part of a family of chemical compounds called retinoids. These are derived from or related to Vitamin A, a nutrient essential for healthy skin, vision and immune function.

    All retinoids work because enzymes in our skin convert them into their “active” form, retinoic acid.

    You can buy retinol in creams and other topical products over the counter.

    These are often promoted as “anti-ageing” because retinol can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and even out skin tone (for example, sun spots or acne scars).

    It also has an exfoliating effect, meaning it can help unclog pores.

    Stronger retinoid treatments that target acne will require a prescription because they contain retinoic acid, which is regulated as a drug in the United States, European Union, United Kingdom and Australia.

    How is retinol used in skincare?

    One of the most common claims about retinol is that it helps to reduce visible signs of ageing.

    How does this work?

    With age, the skin’s barrier becomes weaker, making it more prone to dryness, injury and irritation.

    Retinol can help counteract this natural thinning by stimulating the proliferation of keratinocytes – cells that form the outer skin layer and protect against damage and water loss.

    Retinol also stimulates the production of collagen (a key protein that creates a scaffolding that keeps skin firm and elastic) and fibroblasts (cells that produce collagen and support skin structure).

    It also increases how fast the skin sheds old cells and replaces them with new ones.

    Over time, these processes help reduce fine lines, fade dark spots and even out skin tone. It can also make skin appear clearer.

    While effective, this doesn’t happen overnight.

    You may have also heard about a “retinol purge” – a temporary flare of acne when you first start using topical retinoids.

    Studies have found the skin may become irritated and acne temporarily worsen in some cases. But more research needs to be done to understand this link.

    The idea of a retinol purge is popular on social media.
    TikTok, CC BY-NC-ND

    So, is retinol safe?

    At typical skincare concentrations (0.1–0.3%), side effects tend to be mild.

    Most people who experience irritation (such as redness, dryness, or peeling) when starting retinol are able to build tolerance over time. This process is often called “retinisation”.

    However, retinol increases the skin’s sensitivity to UV radiation (known as photosensitivity). This heightened reactivity can lead to sunburn, irritation and an increased risk of hyperpigmentation (spots or patches of darker colour).

    For this reason, daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF30 or higher) is strongly recommended while using retinol products.

    Who should avoid retinol?

    Teenagers and children generally don’t need retinol unless specifically prescribed by a doctor, for example, for acne treatment.

    People with sensitive skin or conditions such as eczema (dry, itchy and inflamed skin) and rosacea (chronic redness and sensitivity) may find retinol too irritating.

    Using retinol products alongside other skincare treatments, such as alpha-hydroxy acids, can over-exfoliate your skin and damage it.

    Importantly, the active form of retinol, retinoic acid, is teratogenic (meaning it can cause birth defects). Over-the-counter retinol products are also not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

    Choose and store retinol products wisely

    Since retinol is classified as a cosmetic ingredient, companies are not required to disclose its concentration in their products.

    The European Union is expected to introduce new regulations that will cap the concentration of retinol in cosmetic facial products to 0.3%.

    These are precautionary measures aimed to limit exposure for vulnerable groups, such as pregnant women, given the risk of birth defects.

    It’s therefore recommended to use products that clearly state the retinol concentration is between 0.1% and 0.3%.

    Retinol is also a notoriously unstable molecule that degrades with exposure to air, light or heat.

    Choosing a product with airtight, light-protective packaging will help with potential degradation problems that could lead to inactivity or harm.

    What’s the safest way to try retinol?

    The key is to go low and slow: a pea-sized amount of a low-concentration product (0.1%) once or twice a week, preferably at night (to avoid UV exposure), and then the frequency and concentration can be increased (to a maximum of 0.3%) as the skin adjusts.

    Using a moisturiser after retinol helps to reduce dryness and irritation.

    Wearing sunscreen every day is a must when using retinol to avoid the photosensitivity.

    If you experience persistent redness, burning, or peeling, it’s better to stop using the product and consult your doctor or a dermatologist for personalised advice.

    Laurence Orlando is affiliated with the Australian Society of Cosmetic Chemists.

    Professor Ademi currently serves as a member of the Economics Sub Committee of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee within the Department of Health, Australia which assesses clinical and economic evaluations of medicines submitted for listing on the PBS. She leads the global economics initiative for the Lp(a) International Task Force and Member of Professional Advisory Board of Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) Australia. Zanfina Ademi receives funding from FH Europe Foundation to understand the population screening for LP(a), globally. Received funding from National Health and Medical Research Council, Medical Research Future Fund not in relation to to this work, but work that relates to health economics of prevention and cost-effectiveness.

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

    – ref. What is retinol? And will it make my acne flare? 3 experts unpack this trendy skincare ingredient – https://theconversation.com/what-is-retinol-and-will-it-make-my-acne-flare-3-experts-unpack-this-trendy-skincare-ingredient-256074

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Zheng, Sabalenka book quarterfinal meeting at Roland Garros

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

    Zheng Qinwen returns a shot during the women’s singles 4th round match between Liudmila Samsonova of Russia and Zheng Qinwen of China at the French Open tennis tournament at Roland Garros, Paris, France, June 1, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Olympic gold medalist Zheng Qinwen has set up a quarterfinal clash with top seed Aryna Sabalenka at the French Open.

    Less than a year after her historic Olympic triumph on the Paris clay, the Chinese sensation recorded her best result at Roland Garros, reaching the quarterfinals with a 7-6 (5), 1-6, 6-3 victory over Russia’s Liudmila Samsonova on Sunday.

    The Australian Open finalist battled for nearly three hours to secure the win.

    The first set stayed on serve through six games before the players exchanged breaks in the next four. Tied at 5-5 in the tiebreak, Zheng held her nerve, striking a patient inside-in forehand winner and forcing Samsonova to net a shot to close out the grueling 76-minute set.

    Samsonova responded strongly in the second, breaking Zheng twice and serving out the set. Zheng struggled with the Russian’s wide angles and squandered seven break point opportunities.

    Regrouping in the final set, Zheng broke Samsonova in the sixth game when the Russian sent a backhand down the line long.

    Serving for the match at 5-3, the 22-year-old Zheng fell behind 0-30 but reeled off four straight points, sealing victory after a forehand error from Samsonova.

    “I am super happy, honestly,” Zheng said. “There are not many words that can describe my emotions, because I’ve been trying every year, and that’s the real first time for me to be in quarterfinals in Roland Garros.”

    Sabalenka continued her consistency at the majors with a 7-5, 6-3 win over American 16th seed Amanda Anisimova to reach her third straight French Open quarterfinal.

    Sabalenka won her first six meetings with Zheng, including the 2024 Australian Open final. However, Zheng earned her first victory over the Belarusian last month – on clay – in Rome.

    “It’s always tough matches against her,” Sabalenka noted. “She’s a great player. Of course, I expect a great battle, and I’m super excited to face her in the quarterfinals, and I want to get my revenge. I want to get this win after Rome, so I’m happy to face her in the quarters.”

    Four-time winner Iga Swiatek had to dig deep to extend her 24-match winning streak in Paris, overcoming No. 12 seed Elena Rybakina 1-6, 6-3, 7-5.

    “It means a lot,” said the fifth-seeded Pole. “I think I needed that kind of win to feel these feelings that I’m able to win under pressure, and even if it’s not going the right way, you know, still turn the match around to win it.”

    Swiatek will next face Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina, who outplayed Italian fourth seed Jasmine Paolini 4-6, 7-6 (6), 6-1.

    On the men’s side, reigning champion Carlos Alcaraz clinched a hard-fought 7-6 (8), 6-3, 4-6, 6-4 victory over American Ben Shelton after three hours and 19 minutes on Court Philippe Chatrier to reach his fourth straight quarterfinal in Paris.

    “Today I fought against myself, against the mind,” second seed Alcaraz said. “I just tried to calm myself. In some moments I was mad, I was angry with myself. Talking not really good things, but I am really happy to not let those thoughts play against me. I tried to calm myself down, and I tried to keep going. That is what I tried.”

    The Spaniard will next face Tommy Paul, after the 12th seed defeated Australia’s Alexei Popyrin 6-3, 6-3, 6-3.

    Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti brushed aside Holger Rune of Denmark 7-5, 3-6, 6-3, 6-2 to set up a last-eight meeting with American Frances Tiafoe, who overcame Daniel Altmaier of Germany 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (4).

    MIL OSI China News –

  • Swiatek digs herself out of deep hole, Alcaraz powers on at French Open

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Four-time champion Iga Swiatek clawed her way back from the brink to reach the French Open quarter-finals by defeating her claycourt nemesis Elena Rybakina while men’s title holder Carlos Alcaraz also went through after a tough workout on Sunday.

    Fifth seed Swiatek looked out of sorts as she trailed 6-1 2-0 on Court Philippe Chatrier, leaving the crowd stunned. But Swiatek found her groove and some grit to prevail 1-6 6-3 7-5.

    Her final opponent from last year, Jasmine Paolini, was on the wrong end of another last-16 clash against 13th seed Elina Svitolina of Ukraine, the Italian wasting three match points in a 4-6 7-6(6) 6-1 defeat.

    Svitolina will provide the next test for Swiatek, who continues her quest to become the first female player since tennis turned professional to claim the singles’ title four times in a row at Roland Garros.

    The only women to win the singles at Roland Garros in four straight years were Jeanne Matthey from 1909-12 and Suzanne Lenglen from 1920-23 when only French players competed.

    Since tennis turned professional in 1968, Swiatek is one of three women with Monica Seles and Justine Henin to enjoy three consecutive triumphs in Paris and on Sunday it looked like her quest for a fourth straight was going to crash to a halt.

    The 12th-seeded Rybakina made a bullet start, putting Swiatek on the back foot with some powerful baseline play and racing to a 5-0 lead, threatening to inflict on the former world number one her first bagel at a Grand Slam.

    “It was as if I was playing (men’s world number one and heavy hitter) Jannik Sinner,” Swiatek joked.

    DOUBLE FAULTS

    If there was any sign that Swiatek was rattled, it was her three double faults at 2-2 in the second set.

    The fifth seed still held though and it proved to be a turning point as she went on to break to love and move 4-2 up, bagging 10 consecutive points in the process to send the clash into a decider.

    At 4-4, with Rybakina serving at 15-40, the Kazakh appeared to have double-faulted on break point.

    Both players were walking towards their benches when chair umpire Kader Nouni’s deep voice overruled the line judge’s call.

    The reversal offered Rybakina an unexpected lifeline as the air filled with electricity.

    Swiatek later saved a game point with a blistering forehand winner, but it was Rybakina who ultimately secured the crucial hold, shifting the weight of expectation squarely onto her opponent’s shoulders.

    Swiatek cooled down and held, then broke and finished it off on the second match point before unleashing a huge scream and bumping her chest in a mix of released anger and relief.

    “In the first set, with her playing like that I felt I did not have a single chance,” said Swiatek, who had lost to Rybakina in their two previous encounters on clay.

    “Using the top spin was the plan from the beginning but I did not feel she gave me the space to do that. But I’m happy that I was patient enough to stay in the game and use any opportunity that came to me.”

    Elsewhere in the top half of the draw, Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen battled on, the Chinese eighth seed overcoming Russia’s Liudmila Samsonova 7-6(5) 1-6 6-3, with a potential clash against world number one Aryna Sabalenka looming.

    In the men’s draw, Carlos Alcaraz etched his name deeper in clay by overcoming American Ben Shelton 7-6(8) 6-3 4-6 6-4 for his 100th tour-level win on the surface to reach the quarter-finals for a fourth successive year.

    Victory was far from simple and Alcaraz said he fought against himself in the mind.

    “I just tried to calm myself. In some moments I was mad, I was angry with myself. Talking not really good things but I am happy to not let those thoughts play against me,” he added.

    “I tried to calm myself down and I tried to keep going.”

    Up next for him is world number 12 Tommy Paul, who blitzed Alexei Popyrin 6-3 6-3 6-3 to become the first American male player to reach the French Open quarter-finals in 22 years.

    Paul matched Andre Agassi’s run from 2003 after Americans on Saturday equalled a 40-year-old record with five women and three men reaching round four of the clay court Grand Slam.

    Another American in the last eight is Frances Tiafoe, who beat Germany’s Daniel Altmaier but will find himself with a mountain to climb in the next round as he takes on Italian craftsman Lorenzo Musetti.

    World number seven Musetti beat Denmark’s Holger Rune 7-5 3-6 6-3 6-2, showing his impressive palette of claycourt game. He has reached at least the semi-finals of all three Masters events on the slow surface this season.

    Sabalenka battled past 16th-seed Amanda Anisimova 7-5 6-3 to become the first player to reach the quarter-finals in 10 straight Grand Slams since American Serena Williams between 2014-17.

    The Belarusian squandered a total of seven matchpoints before seeing off Anisimova to set up a clash with Zheng.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI China: Nawrocki holds narrow lead over Trzaskowski in Polish presidential runoff: late poll

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

    Karol Nawrocki is now narrowly leading Rafal Trzaskowski in Poland’s presidential runoff on Sunday, according to a late poll conducted by Ipsos. Earlier exit poll results had shown Trzaskowski ahead.

    Nawrocki, a historian and head of Poland’s Institute of National Remembrance, received 50.7 percent of the vote in the presidential runoff, ahead of Trzaskowski, the ruling Civic Coalition (KO) candidate and mayor of Warsaw, who garnered 49.3 percent, according to the late poll released by Ipsos at about 11 p.m. local time (2100 GMT).

    According to the Polish Press Agency, the late poll is based on official results from 50 percent of randomly selected polling stations where Ipsos conducted its survey. The statistical margin of error is estimated at 1 percentage point.

    Ipsos’s earlier exit poll showed that Trzaskowski received 50.3 percent of the vote, while Nawrocki, an independent candidate backed by the opposition Law and Justice (PiS) party, received 49.7 percent. Voter turnout was estimated at 72.8 percent.

    Final results are likely to be announced on Monday morning or early afternoon, according to the Polish National Electoral Commission (PKW).

    A closely contested first round was held on May 18, in which Trzaskowski secured 31.36 percent of the vote, followed by Nawrocki with 29.54 percent. As no candidate secured more than 50 percent of the vote in the first round, the election proceeded to a runoff. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Foreign Affairs Committee Ranking Member Meeks, Lofgren Send Letter to Secretary Lutnick on Multilateral Export Controls

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Gregory W Meeks (5th District of New York)

    Washington, D.C. – Representatives Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Zoe Lofgren, Ranking Member of the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, sent a letter to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick raising concerns over reports that the Department of Commerce may withdraw from critical multilateral agreements aimed at restricting access to critical technologies, like semiconductors and semiconductor manufacturing equipment (SME). The Members warned Secretary Lutnick that abandoning coordinating efforts with partners would make it harder to prevent the People’s Republic of China (PRC) from accessing cutting-edge technology and undermine America’s national security. 
     
    The full text of the letter can be found below. A PDF copy of the letter can be found here.  

    Dear Secretary Lutnick,

    We are concerned by recent reports indicating the Department of Commerce may seek to pull back from critical multilateral agreements and engagements with allies and partners that are designed to coordinate policies to restrict the People’s Republic of China (PRC) from accessing cutting-edge technologies. While it’s important to prevent U.S. technology from powering the PRC’s military, a coordinated approach with partners and allies is necessary in critical technology areas such as advanced semiconductors and semiconductor manufacturing equipment (SME), to prevent the PRC from developing critical capabilities that are detrimental to our national security. 

    To ensure the United States continues to outpace the PRC on semiconductors and SME, we have worked on a bipartisan basis to facilitate a domestic innovation and manufacturing ecosystem while controlling our adversary’s ability to access advanced technologies. We helped to pass the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act of 2022, sweeping legislation that sought to reinvigorate U.S. leadership in science and technology and included an investment of $52.7 billion designed to help reshore U.S. semiconductor manufacturing capacity. We also recognize the need for a defensive strategy to protect our economic and national security. Both the Trump and Biden Administrations have placed restrictions on PRC entities from purchasing certain high-end semiconductor chips and SME technologies.  We believe these export controls were necessary and remain so.

    However, U.S. export controls alone are not sufficient because other countries also manufacture advanced semiconductors and associated equipment and tools that they can sell to the PRC. While the previous administration achieved some success with multilateral agreements with the Netherlands and Japan on certain SME controls,  those controls would have been far more successful in constraining the PRC if they were coordinated from the start. To this day these trilateral controls remain misaligned in key ways, from a lack of end use controls to different approaches to the denial of licensing.

    We recognize that organizing these coalitions can be challenging, but working with allies and partners achieves real results. The United States assembled a coalition of nearly 40 nations to coordinate controls against Russia after its invasion of Ukraine. We urge you to continue to engage with our partners and allies to build a similar coalition focused on the PRC. This can only be accomplished through direct and sustained diplomacy, which while not always as fast as we would like, is the only effective option in the long competition with the PRC.

    The Commerce Department has an opportunity to demonstrate strength and support the U.S. manufacturing base by coordinating more plurilateral controls, not less. With Russia stalling progress in the four large multilateral regimes, we urge you to seek out small coalitions of countries that have market-share in particular critical technology sectors. In the case of semiconductors, for instance, we should be broadening coordination beyond Japan and the Netherlands to include South Korea, Taiwan, and others. Initiatives and fora, such as the Multilateral Action on Sensitive Technologies (MAST) and the U.S.-E.U. Trade and Technology Council (TTC), can help advance such coordination while furthering U.S. global leadership and interests on standards development, technology transfer, trade, and many other multinational issues.

    We are worried that if the United States goes it alone or attempts to bully our partners, they will increasingly hedge to the PRC instead of working with the United States. Disengaging from multilateral dialogues and initiatives could provide an excuse for key governments not to cooperate with our controls. In response to President Trump’s tariffs, President Ursula von der Leyen of the European Commission has called for strengthening European-PRC relations.  In March, the Dutch company ASML announced it would be building a facility in China—a decision that runs counter to U.S. interests and could only have been made with European government support.  Last month, the PRC engaged in its first multilateral economic dialogue with Japan and South Korea in five years—seeking a regional partnership among the three nations to weather the trade policies of the United States.

    Finally, we caution against a unilateral approach that overly relies upon the foreign direct product rule (FDPR) to extend U.S. jurisdiction to foreign-produced items. While the Department should continue to exercise this authority as a last resort, abuse of the rule may further weaken our standing with allies and partners and result in the removal of U.S. suppliers from major global supply chains in the long run, which would be disastrous for our economy and our ability to outcompete the PRC on critical technologies. A better path would be to coordinate controls with other partners and help them build enforcement capacity, so the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) does not have to monitor and police millions of transactions alone. We would be willing partners in ensuring that BIS has the tools and resources to make U.S. controls more effective.

    We are deeply concerned about the harms that will occur to U.S. interests if the United States walks away from multilateral approaches. We urge the Department to continue multistakeholder dialogues to bring our allies along in aligning their export controls with ours, using appropriate leverage available to you. Given the critical importance of this matter to both domestic and foreign affairs, we request that you provide us answers to the following questions by June 5, 2025:

    • What is the Department’s current policy with regards to participation in multilateral councils and forums, including MAST, TTC, multilateral agreements, and plurilateral agreements such as the U.S.-Japan-South Korea trilateral agreement?
    • What steps is the Department taking to coordinate with our allies and partners on export controls on critical technologies, such as semiconductors and SME?
    • To what extent will the Department continue to take into account foreign availability as it designs and coordinates its controls?
    • What additional staffing, resources, or authorities does the Department need to more effectively coordinate with partners on controls on technology entering the PRC market?

    We would appreciate a briefing from your staff to better understand how you are approaching these questions.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: K. Nawrocki leads R. Trzaskowski by a small margin in the second round of the presidential elections in Poland

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    WARSAW, June 2 (Xinhua) — Karol Nawrocki is ahead of Rafal Trzaskowski in the second round of Poland’s presidential election on Sunday, according to the latest Ipsos poll. Previous exit polls had shown Trzaskowski in the lead.

    K. Nawrocki, a historian and head of the Polish Institute of National Remembrance, received 50.7 percent of the vote, while R. Trzaskowski, the mayor of Warsaw and the candidate of the ruling Civic Coalition, got 49.3 percent, a poll released by Ipsos at around 11 p.m. local time /21:00 GMT/ showed.

    The previous Ipsos exit poll showed R. Trzaskowski receiving 50.3 percent of the vote, while K. Nawrocki, an independent candidate supported by the opposition Law and Justice party, received 49.7 percent. Voter turnout was estimated at 72.8 percent.

    According to the Polish National Electoral Commission, the final results are expected to be announced on Monday morning or early afternoon.

    On May 18, a tense first round took place, in which R. Trzaskowski received 31.36% of the votes, followed by K. Nawrocki with 29.54%. Since none of the candidates received more than 50% of the votes in the first round, a second round was called. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: In Bradfield, the election is not yet over. What happens when a seat count is ultra close?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Graeme Orr, Professor of Law, The University of Queensland

    Election day was over four weeks ago. Yet the outcome in one House of Representatives remains unclear. That is the formerly Liberal Sydney electorate of Bradfield.

    In real time, you can watch the lead tilt between Liberal hopeful, Gisele Kapterian and her teal independent rival, Nicolette Boele. The difference between them has been as small as one vote. As of Monday, that had shifted to 12 votes in the Teal’s favour. Still too close even for Antony Green to call.

    What are the processes for resolving ultra-marginal results? And, more broadly, what accountability is there for problems in campaigning or the running of the election, such as the allegation that voters in one NSW town were misled about how to vote?

    First, to the Bradfield saga. The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) has until July 9 to declare the result. It then certifies a list of successful candidates, which it “returns”, attached to the original writ the governor-general used to formally begin the election.

    Electoral challenges

    Within 40 days of the writ being returned, any candidate or elector from the seat can “petition” its result. That’s not a petition calling for parliament to handle the matter. It means a formal pleading to the Court of Disputed Returns. For national elections, that means the High Court.

    Remarkably few seats are challenged in Australia. On the happy side, this is because our election agencies are very professional. It’s also a matter of legal principle, arithmetic and resources.

    To succeed in a challenge, you must show the outcome was likely to have been affected, by errors or breaches of the electoral act. With more than 100,000 voting in House of Representatives electorates, even a 0.5% margin means convincing a judge that a 500-vote lead was uncertain.

    The last successful petition nationally was 12 years ago. The AEC admitted some lost ballots meant that the last couple of Western Australian Senate seats could have been different. The whole race had to be re-run.

    In Bradfield, there’s no suggestion of impropriety. So it’s not like the last unsuccessful petition, from 2019, where the Liberals survived claims that misleading how-to-vote posters, directed at Chinese language speakers, might have affected the result.

    Instead, the Bradfield loser would focus on disputed ballots. That would mean, for example, votes where their scrutineers noted some uncertainty. Such as whether a “1” was a “7”. A judge can then give a binding ruling on the intent of the ballot.

    The loser might also try to find evidence of people being wrongly denied a ballot or wrongly issued one. The 40-day period to marshal evidence is strict.

    Besides time limits, a challenger needs lawyers and risks paying the other side’s (and perhaps the AEC’s) legal costs if they lose the hearing.

    Counts and recounts

    Australian election counts are very thorough. This is in contrast to the United Kingdom, where local officials literally rush to be the first to declare, in the wee hours of Friday morning after voting closes at 10pm on a Thursday.

    The figures we see on election night are “indicative” only, drawing on counts in thousands of polling places. Every ballot is transferred to a more central location, for official tallying. Ballots for weaker candidates are reviewed multiple times, as they pass on according to each elector’s preferences.

    When a seat is ultra-close, the law permits a complete recount. AEC policy is to conduct one whenever the result is within 100 votes: in Bradfield, the initial result was a mere eight votes.

    A losing candidate can also request a recount. Teal independent Zoe Daniel did that in her Melbourne seat of Goldstein, where Liberal Tim Wilson finished 260 votes ahead.

    Recounts are resource intensive. So the AEC agreed to review all “1” votes for those candidates, and ballots put in the “informal” or invalid pile. Wilson finally won by 175 votes. A challenge to a margin of that size seems very unlikely.

    Bad form or protest? Informal votes

    What of votes that couldn’t be counted? We call these “informal”. Given turning-out to vote is compulsory – and the requirement to give preferences – Australia has long had a lot of informal ballots.

    Upwards of half tend to be accidental, caused by people misnumbering the ballot or not understanding the rules. The highest rates are in seats with many new citizens from overseas, especially as long ballots of many of candidates is becoming common.

    Votes that cannot be counted are called ‘informal’, and can be a source of dispute in a seat count.
    Shutterstock

    Maybe more than half, however, are deliberate, intended as protests against the system or parties. These include blanks and those scribbled with (sometimes obscene) comments. As faith in parties has declined, informals have risen. Also, due to “automatic enrolment”, more people are enrolled than ever, including some who’d rather not be. Informal ballots this year reached 5.6% of turnout. For perspective, that’s up just 0.4%.

    Voters in the small town of Missabotti in the New South wales seat of Cowper, however, were miffed to find their polling booth had a 45% informal rate. That’s quite an outlier, even for a seat where electors had to rank a dizzying 11 candidates.

    There are allegations a polling official misled some electors, by telling them they only had to number “6” candidates for the House. That is the rule for the Senate, not the House.

    As preferences are not mandatory at NSW state elections, it’s understandable voters may have heeded such advice rather than the actual rule on the ballot. Such an error would be embarrassing for the AEC. But it could hardly ground an election challenge: the Nationals held Cowper by almost 5,500 votes.

    Does that mean there’s no accountability? Anyone affected does not get to vote again. But the AEC is investigating. And after every election, it is grilled by a parliamentary inquiry that the public can contribute to.

    In the end, every vote should be sacred. In reality, elections are huge logistical events and nothing is perfect. But there are courts and inquiries to offer remedies and improve things for the future.

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

    – ref. In Bradfield, the election is not yet over. What happens when a seat count is ultra close? – https://theconversation.com/in-bradfield-the-election-is-not-yet-over-what-happens-when-a-seat-count-is-ultra-close-257956

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Van Drew Announces Introduction of Bill to Codify President Trump’s Executive Order Lowering Drug Prices for Americans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jeff Van Drew (NJ02)

    Washington, DC –Today, Congressman Van Drew released the following statement in support of President Trump’s executive order, signed today, which will tie what Medicare pays for prescription drugs to the lowest prices paid in other developed countries.

    “Today, President Trump took a bold step to lower prescription drug prices for Americans, and I fully support it,” said Congressman Van Drew. “For far too long, American families have been stuck paying outrageous prices for the same drugs sold at a fraction of the cost in other countries. This has to change. In fact, I will be introducing the Fair Prescription Drug Prices for Americans Act in the coming days to build on the President’s action. This bill will make it illegal for drug manufacturers to charge Medicare and privately insured Americans more than what they charge in other countries like Canada, the United Kingdom, or Japan. If they exceed that amount, they will face serious civil monetary penalties of ten times the difference in price for every single dose sold under those insurance plans. It is time to put the interests of the American people first and stop letting Big Pharma get away with price gouging.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: [Interview] Lines That Find Than Define: Kun-Yong Lee x Samsung Art Store

    Source: Samsung

    “Bodyscape was inspired by a line my child left on the wall as she fell.”
    — Kun-Yong Lee, contemporary artist
     
    Should art make you think or feel? Is beauty created or discovered? These questions do not have easy answers. But for decades, artist Kun-Yong Lee has explored them head-on — quite literally with his body — in pursuit of an art that anyone can experience.
     
    Starting today, June 2, a curated selection of 15 pieces from Lee’s works will be available on Samsung Art Store.1 Samsung Art Store is an art subscription service available on Samsung Art TVs including The Frame and QLEDs. Currently available in 117 countries around the world, Samsung Art Store offers over 3,500 pieces of art in 4K resolution from over 70 partners. To mark the occasion, Samsung Newsroom spoke with Lee about his artistic philosophy and what inspired this collaboration with Samsung.
     

    Widely regarded as a major figure in contemporary Korean art, Lee has been at the forefront of the Korean avant-garde movement. He began gaining international recognition in the 1970s with notable appearances at the 8th Paris Biennale in 1973 and the 15th São Paulo Biennale in 1979. Over the years, he has been honored with numerous accolades such as the Grand Prize at the Lisbon International Show in 1979, the 8th Lee In-Sung Art Award in 2007 and the Order of Cultural Merit (Silver Crown) in 2022. Spanning drawing, painting, photography, installation and performance, Lee’s expansive practice explores the dynamic relationships between the body, the medium and the audience.

     
    ▲ “Bodyscape 76-3” (2022, Kun-Yong Lee)
     
     
    The Sensory Nature of Art
    Q: You are well known for your “Bodyscape” series. What roles do the body and movement play in your art?
     
    The “Bodyscape” series was inspired by a moment when my young daughter, just learning to walk, stumbled while holding a crayon and ended up drawing a line on the wall as she fell. That moment sparked the idea that a work of art could be created without any intention to express a specific concept — simply by allowing the body to move naturally, without even looking at the canvas.
     
    French philosopher Maurice Merleau-Ponty argued that knowledge comes from sensory experience, not abstract reasoning. Similarly, Austrian linguistic philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein once said, “Whereof one cannot speak, thereof one must be silent”— critiquing the limits of philosophy grounded in conceptual language. I resonate with the idea that meaning arises not from language or rational thought but from the movement and sensation of the body. Artistic expression, then, is not merely a product of conscious intent — it is a way for the body to directly construct and respond to the world.
     
    ▲ Lee often positions himself behind the canvas or turns his back to it during his creative process.
     
    That’s where my work diverges from traditional painting techniques. I dip my body or brush into paint and stretch my arms as far as they reach, adding line over line. Sometimes, I intentionally turn my back to the canvas. While traditional painting reflects what the artist consciously envisions, my work is shaped by the natural lines that emerge through repeated motion — lines defined by the structure and limited range of movement of my body.
     
     
    Q: Your work often involves interacting with the audience. How does this interaction influence your art?
     
    I’ve been involved in performance art since I was young. Audience interaction is essential, as performance is a medium that cannot exist without a live audience. When viewers watch the artist’s actions, they begin to wonder what the artist is doing or what will happen next. Every word spoken by the artist and every reaction from the audience become integral parts of the work itself.
     
    “Art encourages us to see the world with greater curiosity — ultimately helping us lead more fulfilling lives.”
     
    Q: What are your favorite pieces?
     
    Among the “Bodyscape” series, I’m most partial to “Bodyscape 76-1,” “Bodyscape 76-2” and “Bodyscape 76-3.”
     
    ▲ (From left) “Bodyscape 76-1” (2022) and “Bodyscape 76-2” (2022)
     
    “Bodyscape 76-1” and “Bodyscape 76-2” were created using methods entirely different from traditional painting. For “Bodyscape 76-1,” I stood behind a canvas roughly the height of my body and painted from behind and above — extending only my hands to draw lines. For “Bodyscape 76-2,” I painted with my back turned to the canvas. A new world emerged from a context where I couldn’t see what I was painting.
     
    “Artistic expression is not merely a product of conscious intent — it is a way for the body to directly construct and respond to the world.”
     
    “Bodyscape 76-3” represents an artistic world created solely through the movement of my left and right arms. Like “Bodyscape 76-2,” I stood in front of the canvas but did not face it directly. I positioned myself sideways and extended my right arm as far as it could reach to paint a line, then repeated the motion with my left. There was no fixed reference point — I simply painted within the limits of my reach. The curves drawn by each hand met at the bottom and crossed at the top, forming a heart-like shape. But I wasn’t intentionally drawing a heart — rather, I let the lines created by my body’s movement emerge naturally and accepted them as a central part of the artwork.
     
    ▲ Lee poses in front of “Bodyscape 76-2+3-2022” shown on a 114-inch Samsung MICRO LED at Art Basel Hong Kong 2025.
     
    Corporeality is the most essential aspect of my work. This aligns with Merleau-Ponty’s idea that the body is a living subject of perception. Because this sense of corporeality is more apparent in the process than in the final result, I encourage first-time viewers to observe how the work is created.
     
     
    Engaging the Public Through the Language of Art
    Q: How do you define art?
     
    Art shouldn’t belong exclusively to artists — anyone can enjoy, imitate and experience it.
     
    “Audience interaction is essential, as performance cannot exist without an audience.”
     
    In 2022, I experimented with digital interaction through a project titled “Digital Bodyscape 76-3.” Visitors could choose their preferred colors and styles, and an avatar of myself would create a digital version of “Bodyscape 76-3.”
     
    At the 14th Gwangju Biennale in 2023, I invited visitors to experience “Bodyscape 76-3” by drawing lines with their own two arms in the exhibition hall. From young children to grandparents, anyone with a crayon could create a piece of art. There’s a deep sense of fulfillment when people see work they’ve made themselves. I would love to have more opportunities like this in the future —where technology not only deepens communication between artists and audiences, but also invites art lovers to take part in the process.
     
    Q: What is the role of art in society?
     
    In today’s fast-paced and demanding world, art offers us a chance to appreciate what we often take for granted, to find meaning in the process rather than just the outcome and to slow down and reflect. Art encourages us to see the world with greater curiosity — ultimately helping us lead more fulfilling lives.
     
    ▲ Unfazed by passing trends, Lee shared that “had to wait until his 80s to be acquire worldwide recognition” and is “grateful to his fan number one — his spouse — for bearing the times with him.”.
     
     
    Samsung Art Store: Pushing the Boundaries of Art Experience
    Q: Do you think experiential works can be effectively conveyed through a digital platform like Samsung Art Store?
     
    Being able to conveniently view artworks through a Samsung Art TV is a wonderful opportunity for connection. Sitting comfortably in your living room with a cup of coffee, quietly engaging with an artist’s work — that is a deeply meaningful form of art appreciation. When I saw my work displayed on The Frame at Art Basel Hong Kong, I was truly amazed. In some ways, the emotion and energy of the pieces came through even more vividly than when viewing them in person. That’s the innovation of cutting-edge technology.
     
    “Quietly engaging with an artist’s work over a cup of coffee, at the comfort of your living room sofa — that is a deeply meaningful form of art appreciation.”
     
    What’s more, I believe Samsung Art TVs can overcome the limitations of purely visual artwork. Performance pieces can be experienced with sound and video, while conceptual works can be paired with artist commentary to support deeper understanding. It’s an incredible opportunity for artists. I hope more people will be able to access and enjoy art through Samsung Art Store — an invitation to see the world through an artist’s perspective.
     
    ▲ Lee believes that art is for everyone, not just the artists.
     
     
    Beyond Art: Next Steps
    Q: Do you have any advice you’d like to share with younger artists?
     
    Since I was young, I’ve steadily followed my own path — without hesitation or compromise — and time has brought me to where I am today. Although I often felt skeptical about following trends, which are ever-changing. In the end, what matters most is the passion to pursue your own art.
     
    As artists, I believe it is enough to respond sincerely to the spirit of our time, remain true to the present and not be swayed by passing fads.
     

    Samsung Art Store is an art subscription service available on Samsung Art TVs including The Frame and QLEDs. Currently available in 117 countries around the world, Samsung Art Store offers over 70 partners and 3,500 artworks in 4K quality. Through Samsung Art Store, subscribers can enjoy artworks from world-class galleries and masters at home and use it to create new interiors every day.

     
     
    1 Art Store subscription and Samsung Account required to access full selection of artwork.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens call for investment in genuine global security  

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    / by Green Party

    In anticipation of the outcome of the strategic defence review being published today, Ellie Chowns MP, who holds the defence brief for the Parliamentary Green Party, said:

    “We acknowledge the need for greater defence spending and continued NATO membership, but also call for a more thorough reappraisal of strategic defence alliances. With Trump no longer a reliable ally, we need to deepen our defence cooperation with the EU, and review AUKUS.

    “A Green approach to security is not based on arms and threats, but on the three Ds: diplomacy and development as well as defence. Defence policy should not be a simple competition over spending, but based on real commitment to an international order based on human rights, equality and genuine cooperation.

    “If we are to avoid the horror of war, we need to look at the deeper causes of insecurity, including poverty and climate change. We strongly support the restoration of the international aid budget to at least 0.7% of GNI, with a considerable proportion spent on climate action.

    “And we will continue to argue that real patriotism means to stand against UK-made weapons or components being sold to dictators, human rights abusers or for use against civilians anywhere in the world.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What is populism?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Benjamin Moffitt, Senior Lecturer in Politics and International Relations, Monash University

    In 2017, in the wake of Brexit and Donald Trump’s first election win, populism was named the “word of the year” by Cambridge University Press.

    Almost a decade later, we might have thought the term’s popularity would have faded.

    But with Trump back in power in the United States, the Reform Party polling very well in the United Kingdom, and Argentinian president Javier Milei wielding his chainsaw at public events, populism is very much still with us.

    But what is populism? Is it a left or right phenomenon? And is it here to stay?

    What is populism?

    Put simply, populism is a political phenomenon that revolves around the central divide between “the people” and “the elite”.

    Although there is agreement on this divide, academics tend to disagree on two things when it comes to populism.

    The first is what kind of phenomenon it is. Is populism an ideology (that is, a belief system)? A strategy? Or is it a kind of performative political style?

    Secondly, experts disagree on whether populism is a threat or corrective to democracy. Some think it can be both.

    Populism: left or right?

    Much of the confusion about populism stems from the fact that it can appear across the ideological spectrum.

    This is because “the people” and “the elite” are flexible terms, and populists can characterise them in very different ways.

    Right-wing populists tend to characterise “the people” in socio-cultural terms, and often combine their populism with nativism.

    Think for instance, of how Trump’s “people” are coded as White Americans.

    Or, how Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi evokes Hindu nationalism in his definition of “the people”.

    Other prominent right-wing populist leaders include the likes of Viktor Orban of Hungary, Nigel Farage of the United Kingdom, Geert Wilders of the Netherlands, and Australia’s Pauline Hanson.

    Left-wing populists, meanwhile, tend to characterise “the people” in socio-economic terms. They often combine their populism with calls for economic redistribution or shifts in power.

    Examples include Latin American populist leaders like Evo Morales of Bolivia and Hugo Chavez of Venezuela, who sought to bring the poor into their conception of “the people”.

    In the US, Bernie Sanders’ 2016 and 2020 presidential primary campaigns put the working class and people in precarious work at the heart of his “people”.

    Other examples of left-wing populism include the Podemos and Syriza parties in Spain and Greece respectively.

    This also means the way populists tend to define “the elite” is quite different.

    Right-wing populist targets often include:

    • government and policy elites (think of Trump’s “drain the swamp”)
    • cultural elites (Trump’s attacks on media as “fake news”)
    • academics (attacks on the “ivory tower”) and
    • transnational bodies (such as attacks on the United Nations).

    These groups are connected in right-wing populist discourse and purported to be undermining “the people’s” livelihood by abetting increased immigration or the destruction of “traditional values”.

    Left-wing populists tend to target business and power elites, who they see as fleecing “the people” economically and keeping them from expressing their popular power (think of Occupy Wall Street’s divide between the 99% and the 1%).

    Populists also tend to have a suspicion of transnational organisations. But while right-wing populists tend to focus on the likes of the United Nations and World Health Organisation, left-wing populists are more suspicious of business transnationals such as the World Trade Organization or World Economic Forum.

    Is populism here to stay?

    After every major election where a populist leader or party succeeds, there is inevitably talk of a “populist earthquake”, “populist wave” or “populist tsunami”.

    These metaphors suggest populism has come out of nowhere, and is causing a major and unexpected shock to the system.

    But that’s simply not the case.

    If anything, the story of 21st century politics has been one in which populism has become “normalised” and “mainstreamed”.

    Populists are no longer merely “challenger” parties nor minor parties.

    They increasingly are among the top three parties in their respective countries (particularly in Europe), and have won government in places from the US to India to the Netherlands to Italy to Greece.

    This success has seen them steadily viewed as viable and “normal” political players.

    Meanwhile, mainstream parties and leaders have increasingly adopted elements of populists’ discourse, platforms and political styles, as a way to compete with populists.

    This, ironically, has had the effect of legitimising populists in many countries; it makes their policies and discourse look more “acceptable”.

    It’s important to be cynical about any pundit crowing about the “death” of populism – or, on the flipside, the idea it has come out of nowhere.

    Populism is here to stay. Acknowledging that can help us better understand its appeal, which in turn, can provide hints about how to best deal with it.

    Benjamin Moffitt receives or has received funding from the Australian Research Council and the Marianne and Marcus Wallenberg Foundation.

    – ref. What is populism? – https://theconversation.com/what-is-populism-249369

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –