NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI: Kneat Announces Results of Voting at Annual General Meeting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LIMERICK, Ireland, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — kneat.com, inc. (TSX: KSI) (OTC: KSIOF) (“Kneat” or the “Company”) a leader in digitizing and automating validation processes, announced results from its Annual General Meeting of Shareholders (the “2025 AGM”), which took place today. All director nominees were elected to the board of directors (the “Kneat Board”) and KPMG LLP was appointed as auditors, as further described in the related Management Information Circular dated April 23, 2025 (the “Circular”).

    The detailed results of voting at the 2025 AGM are set out below:

    1.  Election of Directors

    Shareholders voted to elect all five directors nominated to the Kneat Board.

    Name of Nominee Number of Votes Cast Votes “For” Votes “For” %
    Ian Ainsworth 48,954,620 47,616,238 97.27%
    Edmund Ryan 48,954,620 48,954,095 100.00%
    Wade K. Dawe 48,954,620 47,008,047 96.02%
    Nutan Behki 48,954,620 47,644,301 97.32%
    Carol Leaman 48,954,620 48,939,765 99.97%
           

    2.  Re-Appointment of Auditors

    Shareholders voted to approve management’s recommendation that KPMG LLP be re-appointed as auditors of the Company, to hold office until the close of the next annual meeting of shareholders, and to authorize the Company to fix their remuneration for the forthcoming year.

    Number of Votes Cast Votes “For” Votes “For” %
    48,954,620 48,908,449 99.91%
         

    Final voting results on all matters voted at the 2025 AGM have been filed with Canadian securities regulators.

    About Kneat

    Kneat Solutions provides leading companies in highly regulated industries with unparalleled efficiency in validation and compliance through its digital validation platform Kneat Gx. As an industry leader in customer satisfaction, Kneat boasts an excellent record for implementation, powered by our user-friendly design, expert support, and on-demand training academy. Kneat Gx is an industry-leading digital validation platform that enables highly regulated companies to manage any validation discipline from end to end. Kneat Gx is fully ISO 9001 and ISO 27001 certified, fully validated, and 21 CFR Part 11/Annex 11 compliant. Multiple independent customer studies show up to 40% reduction in documentation cycle times, up to 20% faster speed to market, and a higher compliance standard.

    For further information:

    Katie Keita, Kneat Investor Relations
    P: + 1 902-706-9074
    E: katie.keita@kneat.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Uruguay’s Deputy Chief of Staff and Interior Minister visited UK

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Uruguay’s Deputy Chief of Staff and Interior Minister visited UK

    On their first official visit to London, Deputy Chief of Staff Jorge Díaz and Interior Minister Carlos Negro held meetings related to justice and security.

    The main objective of the visit was to learn from experiences that will contribute to discussions on the creation of a Ministry of Justice and Human Rights in Uruguay.

    Between May 20 and 23, 2025, they met with government officials, academics, private sector companies, and non-governmental organizations, including two roundtables on cybersecurity and the space industry, in which more than 12 local counterparts participated. Additionally, they visited Parliament, the Supreme Court of Justice, the London Magistrates’ Court, and the Prosecutor’s Office.

    Ambassador Mal Green stated:

    The purpose of this invitation from the British government is to share experiences, ideas, challenges, and lessons learned to support the planning that the Uruguayan government is undertaking for the creation of its Ministry of Justice, as well as to exchange views on a priority for both countries: security.

    I trust that the connections established will continue to deepen in the coming months through future virtual and in-person meetings, training, and technical cooperation.

    Deputy Secretary Díaz expressed being pleasantly surprised by the level of pragmatism and professionalism with which security-related public policies and the Ministry of Justice operate in the United Kingdom, according to the official Presidency website.

    The activity agenda included meetings with Lords who were involved in the formation of this Ministry, created in 2007, and its leadership, as well as with current authorities such as the Undersecretary of Justice, Lord Frederick Ponsonby. Frederick Ponsonby is a relative of John Brabazon Ponsonby, a British diplomat who played a decisive role in the independence of Uruguay in 1828.

    This was the first official visit of authorities from Yamandú Orsi’s government to the United Kingdom, further strengthening the historical relationship and collaboration between both countries, which now spans nearly two centuries.

    Visit our Flickr for more photos of the visit.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Email the FCDO Newsdesk (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Mission

    The University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna was founded in 1767 as the world’s third school for veterinary medicine by Milan’s Ludovico Scotti, originally-named k. k. Pferde-Curen- und Operationsschule.

    It is the only veterinary, academic educational and research facility in Austria and at the same time the oldest in the German-speaking area.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: CYENS Centre of Excellence

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Mission

    CYENS Centre of Excellence is the Research Centre of Excellence in Cyprus focusing on Interactive media, Smart systems and Emerging technologies aiming to empower knowledge and technology transfer in the region.

    It is a joint venture between the three public universities of Cyprus – University of Cyprus, Cyprus University of Technology, and, Open University of Cyprus- , the Municipality of Nicosia, and two renowned international partners, the Max Planck Institute for Informatics, Germany, and, the University College London, United Kingdom.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Labour inspectorate staff in Europe – E-002064/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002064/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Anthony Smith (The Left)

    Labour inspectorate staff in Europe are in a dire situation.

    The Court of Auditors in France has reported that 16 % of labour inspector positions were cut between 2016 and 2021. The country has only around 1 700 labour inspectors left, with more than 20 million employees to protect and roughly two million businesses to inspect.

    Despite this, the Ministry of Labour is planning to slash the number of labour inspector posts open for recruitment – only 45 for 2025.

    While the International Labour Organization recommends a one labour inspector per 10 000 employees, in practice the ratio is often one inspector to more than 15 000 employees.

    Many Member States are in similar situations. This state of affairs makes it impossible to transpose EU legislation.

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to ensure Member States comply with international labour inspection obligations, particularly so as to check EU rules are transposed?
    • 2.Does the Commission intend to ensure Member States implement the Commission’s objective of ‘zero deaths’ by 2030?

    Submitted: 22.5.2025

    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The dissemination by Pro-Russian organisations in Italy of propaganda produced by entities on EU sanctions lists – E-002032/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002032/2025
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Pina Picierno (S&D)

    Given the current geopolitical context and the restrictive measures adopted by the European Union against the Russian Federation, I would like to bring to your attention that a number of pro-Russian organisations are currently active in Italy, where they are registered as associations, bilateral friendship groups, economic/commercial entities and Italo-Russian culture and language institutions.

    These entities have worked assiduously to organise conferences and public events and to disseminate propaganda that is clearly sanctioned by Vladimir Putin’s regime and which is predominantly produced by outlets that are on EU sanctions lists, an example being Russia Today.

    In my capacity as Vice-Chair of the Bureau’s Working Group on Communication, Awareness and Research, I have initiated monitoring activities against these organisations.

    Given the clear evidence pointing to the existence of coordinated disinformation and interference campaigns, which by their very nature violate both the EU’s sanctions and the principles of democracy:

    • 1.Is the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy aware of these ubiquitous propaganda and disinformation networks?
    • 2.What steps will she take to prevent and tackle the dissemination of Russian propaganda in Italy and to ensure the effective implementation of sanctions against those entities in the Putin regime’s influence network that are masquerading as associations and cultural organisations?

    Submitted: 21.5.2025

    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Protecting cultural monuments from indirect commercialisation – E-002043/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002043/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Nikos Pappas (The Left)

    The recent drone show organised by a sports goods company, using the Acropolis as a backdrop without prior authorisation from the Greek authorities, highlighted serious legislative and institutional gaps in relation with the indirect commercial use of cultural heritage sites. The Acropolis, a symbol of European identity and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was indirectly used for promotional purposes, provoking political backlash and legal action in response. There have been similar cases in other Member States (involving the statue of David and the Vitruvian Man in Italy, and the image of the Eiffel Tower in France), highlighting the need for European regulation.

    Regulation (EU) 2021/818 establishing the Creative Europe programme safeguards cultural heritage by preventing its uncontrolled commercialisation. However, it does not establish a unified legal framework for the commercial use of cultural images or symbols.

    Can the Commission therefore answer the following:

    • 1.How does it view these incidents in the light of the need to maintain the protection of the EU’s cultural monuments, especially when commercial operators are involved?
    • 2.Will it propose or support the adoption of a common European legal framework to regulate the depiction, reproduction or commercial use of images of cultural monuments, particularly in cases of indirect exploitation?
    • 3.How can it help to ensure that European cultural principles and values as set out in European law are not compromised in such cases?

    Submitted: 21.5.2025

    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Green transition – risk of a slowdown in economic development and job losses in eastern Europe – E-002055/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002055/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Claudiu-Richard Târziu (ECR)

    According to the World Bank, Romania needs to invest over 350 billion dollars by 2050 just to decarbonise its energy sector – an amount equating to approximately 4 % of its annual GDP. This reflects the enormous burden that the green transition is placing on eastern European countries, with no clear guarantees as to the economic or social benefits.

    In its current form, the ‘green mirage’ could do serious harm to strategic industries, increase dependence on imports from outside the EU and put jobs at risk. While Romania is bearing huge costs, other economies are receiving subsidies or ignoring the rules set at European level.

    • 1.Why is the Commission promoting a climate agenda that is harming eastern European countries disproportionately?
    • 2.How does it justify the costs imposed on Romania in comparison with the preferential treatment of other states?
    • 3.What will it do to protect European industries from unfair competition and balance efforts between East and West?

    Submitted: 22.5.2025

    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Audit of the Polish poultry industry – E-001195/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission conducted an audit in Poland from 6 to 25 November 2024 in order to follow up on the audit report 2021-7187[1] from the Commission’s Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety on bovine meat, including traceability, and on poultry meat and products derived therefrom.

    The objective of the audit was to assess the implementation and effectiveness of the measures presented to the Commission to address the recommendations contained in the 2021 audit report.

    In that context, the assessment of the actions the Polish competent authorities provided to reduce Salmonella contamination in poultry meat were part of the audit.

    The report is currently being finalised and, in accordance with Article 117 of Regulation (EU) 2017/625[2], the report of this audit will be made publicly available on the Commission website[3] in due course.

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/food/audits-analysis/audit-report/details/4520.
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2017/625/oj.
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/food/audits-analysis/audit-report.
    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Future of the common agricultural policy – E-001315/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission’s proposal for the next multiannual financial framework will ensure a simpler, more focused and impactful budget aligned with EU priorities.

    Recognising the importance of food security and nature protection for Europe’s quality of life, the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) will aim to support farmers in a more targeted way, enhance environmental and social outcomes, and foster thriving rural areas in a simpler, more targeted manner, with the right balance between incentives, investment and regulation.

    The Commission is aware of the challenges in Romania’s livestock sector. Several measures already exist and can be used to support the sector.

    Current solutions for this sector under the CAP framework such as coupled income support, sectoral interventions, and investments allow for targeted strategies without causing disproportionate trade distortion.

    Romania and other Member States also offer transitional national aid. Supporting breeding animal purchases is not in line with the current CAP rules.

    Fishing capacity ceilings are vital to prevent overfishing. The Commission recognises the challenges they may pose for fleet modernisation.

    Under the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), Member States can already address additional capacity needs, as many have a margin between capacity ceilings and actual fishing capacity.

    An evaluation of the CFP Regulation is ongoing, with results expected in early 2026, to assess its suitability in today’s context and emerging challenges.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Difficulties in implementing the law on livestock housing – E-001064/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission may intervene in cases raising issues, where there is sufficient evidence of a general practice, of a problem of compliance of national legislation with EU law.

    However, Law 4056/2012 concerns national administrative proceedings related to permits for the housing of farmed animals. Those administrative proceedings are not under the remit of EU law. Hence, this question is referring to national legislation that does not fall under the competence of the Union.

    The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Strategic Plan Regulation[1] includes several interventions that may help farmers to adapt to the new requirements.

    Under the CAP Strategic Plan 2023-2027[2], in addition to direct payments, Greece envisages also support for farm modernisation investments, bio-security interventions and advisory services.

    Where Union law imposes new requirements on farmers, support may be granted for investments to comply with those requirements for a maximum of 24 months from the date on which they become mandatory for the holding.

    • [1] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/2115/oj.
    • [2] https://www.agrotikianaptixi.gr/category/sskap-2023-2027/sskap-egkrisi-tropopoiiseis/.
    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Paedophilia in sports clubs and cooperation on criminal record checks – E-002034/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002034/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Mélanie Disdier (PfE), Fabrice Leggeri (PfE), Marie Dauchy (PfE), Mathilde Androuët (PfE)

    Not a week goes by without a child in the EU being attacked by a sexual predator.

    Currently, many European countries do not have a database listing every person convicted of crimes against children.

    Worse still, sports club managers are neither obliged to request nor authorised to require a criminal record check from another Member State.

    Given that the easiest way to be in contact with children is through sport, we urgently need to completely reassess the checks on coaches and managers to combat crimes against children.

    Just recently in France, in the Dunkirk area, a Belgian educator, who had already been convicted of paedophilia by the Tournai criminal court, was able to work as a coach without the club’s managers being able to run a check on his past. Several reports, followed by complaints, revealed that the individual in question had already been convicted.

    Does the Commission have plans for a system to check a person’s criminal record in other Member States, in particular their country of origin or residence, before they are employed in sensitive positions (for example, as educators working with children or as school bus drivers), as the person may have been convicted when working in such positions before?

    Supporter[1]

    Submitted: 21.5.2025

    • [1] This question is supported by a Member other than the authors: Valérie Deloge (PfE)
    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Launch of New I Love NY Summer Tourism Camapign

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of I LOVE NY’s new integrated summer tourism and travel campaign, highlighted by two new ads running through August across New York State, and in traditional drive markets including Canada. This includes advertising across broadcast, streaming and social platforms, and showcases some of the attractions and activities available. The summer campaign also includes I LOVE NY’s largest mobile marketing tour ever, and additional complementary travel industry efforts to promote visitation to the State’s 11 diverse vacation regions.

    “Tourism is synonymous with New York State, thanks to all of our amazing attractions, from beaches to high peaks, from the Erie Canal to iconic museums and performing arts venues,” Governor Hochul said. “This vital industry is facing challenging new political and economic headwinds. That’s why supporting our tourism industry is more important than ever, and why we are getting out the message that no matter where you’re from, you’re always welcome in New York State.”

    I LOVE NY’s multifaceted summer tourism campaign begins with two new ads featuring a new tagline – “New York State: Everything You Love.” – reflecting the depth and breadth of the world-class attractions and memory-making activities available in communities throughout the state. The new ads can be viewed here and www.iloveny.com/summer.

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Tourism is crucial to New York State, supporting jobs and local economies, and we have so many incredible attractions ready to welcome visitors, from Niagara Falls to Montauk Point. This summer, New York wants to extend a special invitation to travelers from across America and all around the world: this is the perfect opportunity to plan a trip to celebrate history, explore our incredible landscapes, and enjoy all that our incredible state has to offer.”

    Empire State Development Division of Tourism Executive Director and Vice President Ross D. Levi said, “In addition to iconic attractions across our state’s eleven beautiful vacation regions, the next few months in New York hold special delights for travelers from near and far. Guests can look forward to special events commemorating the bicentennial of the Erie Canal, a summer of thoroughbred racing at Saratoga Race Course headlined by the Belmont Stakes and Travers races, the Ryder Cup tournament at Bethpage golf course on Long Island, and food and fun at the Great New York State Fair in Syracuse. The endless variety of activities shows that there truly is everything to love in New York State.”

    As part of this new campaign, I LOVE NY is extending a special invitation to international visitors – especially Canada, which represents New York’s largest inbound international market. International visitation is vital to New York State’s tourism economy. Historically, overseas visitors plan longer trips and produce more direct spending during their stays. New for this year’s campaign is a direct-to-consumer international marketing element in the United Kingdom and Australia, which includes digital billboards, plus streaming and digital advertising. I LOVE NY also continues to work with members of the travel trade industry, like tour operators and travel agents in Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany and Australia through trade shows, sales missions and familiarization tours.

    The summer campaign also includes I LOVE NY’s largest-ever mobile marketing tour with more than 40 stops throughout the Northeast. The mobile tour will make stops at popular events such as music festivals, street fairs and sporting events where guests can interact with fun experiences to learn more about the state’s attractions, win special I LOVE NY prizes, and take pictures with a large I LOVE NY logo sculpture.

    Under Governor Hochul, tourism is New York State’s second largest industry, supporting one in 10 jobs. Recently, more than 306.3 million travelers visited New York State, generating $88 billion in direct spending and a record-high economic impact of $137 billion. Each year, tourism spending saves the average New York State household $1,400 in taxes.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • India-Italy relations on upward trajectory; Jaishankar expresses gratitude for support after Pahalgam attack

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Lauding the strengthening ties between India and Italy, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Wednesday said that the relations between the two nations are on an upward trajectory, marked by renewed momentum in political dialogue, official visits, and growing mutual interest. He reiterated India’s commitment to consolidating the India-Italy Strategic Partnership.

    Speaking at Italy’s National Day celebrations in Delhi on Wednesday, Jaishankar highlighted the shared maritime interests and commitment to freedom of navigation between the two peninsular nations.

    “Whether in the Indo-Pacific or the Indo-Mediterranean, India and Italy share maritime interests and a common commitment to ensuring freedom of navigation and shipping. Italy’s increased presence in the Indo-Pacific, as well as its participation under the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) pillar of science and technology, will certainly enhance our cooperation further,” he said.

    “India-Italy relations are undoubtedly progressing positively. There is new momentum in political dialogue, exchanges, and interest in each other’s potential, which I am confident will be fully tapped by stakeholders. Let me reaffirm our government’s commitment to strengthening the India-Italy Strategic Partnership,” he added.

    Jaishankar expressed gratitude to Italy for its support following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. He noted India’s “firm, resolute, and measured response” in targeting terror centers and launch pads.

    “Let me begin by conveying our best wishes to the government and people of Italy on your National Day. We are thankful, Ambassador, for Italy’s solidarity and support following the barbaric terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.

    Referring to Operation Sindoor, launched in response to the attack, Jaishankar said, “India responded firmly and decisively by destroying relevant terror centers and launch pads. The global community has recognized India’s right to defend its people against acts of terror. We believe the world must uphold a zero-tolerance stance against terrorism and cross-border terrorism.”

    The foreign minister noted that the strategic partnership between India and Italy is rooted in shared values and converging interests and recalled the recent meetings between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Italian counterpart, Giorgia Meloni, on the sidelines of the G20 and G7 summits.

    “Our strategic partnership is founded on shared values and converging interests, as reflected in multilateral platforms such as the G20. As the Ambassador mentioned, our Prime Ministers met at both the G20 and G7 summits, and our collaboration continues through initiatives like the IMEC (India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor), the Global Biofuels Alliance, the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative, the International Solar Alliance, and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.”

    He added, “Our bilateral relations have gained momentum following the adoption of the Joint Strategic Action Plan for 2025–29 by our Prime Ministers last November. We are optimistic that the roadmap outlined in the GASAP will yield concrete and practical outcomes for both our economies and societies.”

    Jaishankar identified trade and economic cooperation as a vital pillar of the partnership and recalled attending the India-Italy Business, Science, and Technology Forum alongside Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani and Minister of University and Research Anna Maria Bernini.

    “Trade and economic cooperation are vital elements of our partnership. Last month, I had the opportunity to attend the India-Italy Business, Science and Tech Forum with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Tajani and Minister Bernini. The event brought together business leaders and representatives from universities and research centers in both countries to explore collaboration across multiple sectors. This forum also presents an opportunity to boost our bilateral trade, which currently stands at USD 15 billion annually.”

    “As the world’s fastest-growing major economy, India offers numerous opportunities for investment. Italy’s technologies and best practices in clean energy, agri-tech, logistics, and shipbuilding, among other sectors, can significantly contribute to India’s progress toward becoming a developed nation — Viksit Bharat — by 2047,” he said.

    The foreign minister also acknowledged the strong Indian diaspora in Italy and expressed confidence in the future growth of mobility for professionals and academics between the two countries.

    “The Indian diaspora in Italy is among the largest in the European Union. They are well-received and recognized for their contributions across sectors including agriculture, dairy, industry, and healthcare. We are confident that in the future, increased mobility of professionals, academics, and researchers will facilitate a greater exchange of knowledge and talent between our two countries,” Jaishankar said.

  • MIL-OSI USA: Army’s 250th birthday week-long celebration from June 7-14, 2025

    Source: United States Army

    Members of the media are invited to attend the Army’s 250th birthday week-long celebration from June 7-14, 2025. This year’s birthday theme, “This we’ll defend,” was first used as a battle cry by the Continental Army. Today, it reminds us that our Army’s purpose is clear: to fight and win the nation’s wars. We remain committed to honing our warfighting skills, enforcing standards and discipline, and living the values that have defined our Army for the past 250 years.

    June 7

    On June 7, a new exhibit at the National Museum of the United States Army called “Call to Arms: The Soldier and the Revolutionary War” will be open and free to the public. The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will be rare Revolutionary War artifacts from the original colonies, England, France and Canada on display. Opening weekend activities from June 7 to 8 include special, family-friendly, Revolutionary War-themed events such as powder horn carving demonstrations, uniform and equipment displays, and story times. The Revolutionary War 250 special exhibit and companion educational programming are included in the museum’s free admission and will be offered through June 2027.

    To learn more, please visit the website at www.thenmusa.org. Media interested in attending or would like more information please reach out to the museum’s Director of Public Affairs Susan Fazakerley- Smullen at usarmy.belvoir.hqda.mbx.publicaffairs-division@army.mil.

    June 11

    On June 11, the Twilight Tattoo hosted by Lt. Gen. Robert Harter, chief of the Army Reserve and commanding general of U.S. Army Reserve Command, will start a pre-show at 6:30 p.m. and a show at 7 p.m. at Summerall Field at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Virginia. The action-packed military experience will feature Soldiers from the U.S. Army Military District of Washington’s ceremonial units. It will also be livestreamed on @USArmy social media platforms. To learn more, please visit the website at https://jtfncr.mdw.army.mil/twilighttattoo/. Media interested in attending or would like more information please reach out to usarmy.mcnair.mdw.mbx.mediadesk-omb@army.mil.

    June 13

    The Army birthday run (or walk) will start at 7 a.m. at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. Media interested in broadcasting live at the start of the run, please reach out to Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Director of Public Affairs Jason Shepherd, jason.shepherd8.civ@army.mil.

    Army Day with the Washington Nationals will begin at 6:45 p.m. Army leaders and personnel will hold their annual Army-focused celebration as the Washington Nationals play the Miami Marlins. Media interested in attending or would like more information, please reach out to Nationals’ Director of Communications Erica George at erica.george@nationals.com.

    June 14

    The Army Birthday Wreath Laying at Arlington National Cemetery will take place at 8:15 a.m. Media interested in attending or would like more information please reach out to usarmy.mcnair.mdw.mbx.mediadesk-omb@army.mil.

    The Army Fitness event will be held at 9:30 a.m., and the Army Birthday Festival will begin at 11 a.m. at the National Mall, Washington D.C. The festival will provide opportunities to interact with Soldiers, Army Astronauts, NFL representatives and Medal of Honor recipients, and to watch military demonstrations, explore equipment displays, participate in a cake cutting ceremony and take part in a variety of activities.

    At 6:30 p.m. the Army Birthday Parade will celebrate the Army’s history and will feature Army equipment, flyovers and 6,600 Soldiers in uniforms from the past and the present. The parade’s best viewing area will be south of Constitution Avenue. The day will end with an enlistment and re-enlistment ceremony, a parachute demonstration by the Golden Knights and a fireworks display.

    Live music will be featured throughout the day.

    To register to attend the free festival and parade, click here.

    Members of the media who would like to attend should RSVP by 12 p.m., June 10. There will be a designated media riser for a limited number of credentialed outlets. Members of the media should click here to register.

    To learn more about the Army’s 250th birthday, visit:

    U.S. Army Celebrating 250 Years – https://www.army.mil/1775

    DVIDS 250th Army Birthday – https://www.dvidshub.net/feature/ARMY250

    U. S. Army Center of Military History – https://history.army.mil/Revwar250/

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Five arrests after protesters target film set

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Four people have been arrested after they targeted the filming of a new movie.

    In recent weeks, protesters have disrupted filming at various locations across London. They have done so solely because an actress involved in the production is Israeli.

    On Wednesday, 28 May officers were deployed to a filming location in Westminster to identify suspects wanted in connection with offences at earlier protests and to deal with any new offences.

    Five people were arrested for harassment and offences under Section 241 of the Trade Union and Labour Relations Act which deals with wrongfully and unlawfully obstructing access to a workplace.

    Two of the arrests relate to incidents at previous protests while three relate to offences that took place today.

    Superintendent Neil Holyoak, who oversaw today’s policing operation, said: “While we absolutely acknowledge the importance of peaceful protest, we have a duty to intervene where it crosses the line into serious disruption or criminality.

    “We have been in discussions with the production company to understand the impact of the protests on their work and on any individuals involved.

    “I hope today’s operation shows we will not tolerate the harassment of or unlawful interference with those trying to go about their legitimate professional work in London.”

    Those who were arrested remain in custody.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Whisky’s ‘water of life’: Scottish distiller turns to science amid historic dry spell Whisky is ‘the water of life’ but in one of the driest starts to a year seen in Scotland, distillers are turning to researchers to improve access to the crucial water supplies for their unique products.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    Glenlivet landscape dams

    Whisky is ‘the water of life’ but in one of the driest starts to a year seen in Scotland, distillers are turning to researchers to improve access to the crucial water supplies for their unique products.
    Scientists from the University of Aberdeen are leading a project funded by Chivas Brothers, the Pernod Ricard business dedicated to Scotch whisky and maker of Ballantine’s, The Glenlivet and Chivas Regal to develop innovative nature-based solutions that could help to mitigate water scarcity but also slow down water run-off following rapid downpours.
    The issue has been brought into sharp focus in recent weeks with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) issuing country-wide alerts for low water levels. The dry soil a long dry spell leaves in its wake can repel water rather than letting it soak in as damp soil would, meaning it is harder to hold water when and where it is most needed.
    In areas like Speyside – home to half Scotland’s malt distillers – ensuring a continuous water supply, both now and in the future, is essential as temporary closures can cost the industry millions of pounds.
    Chivas Brothers is funding new research led by the University of Aberdeen and working with the James Hutton Institute, following a successful project in 2022 which focused on The Glenlivet distillery.
    There the team demonstrated the benefits of a series of small leaky dams installed in channels to slow water flow by holding the water in that location in temporary mini reservoirs. This allows it to soak into the subsurface so that more water is available at times when it is needed.
    The new research will broaden the geographic scope of the project across Speyside and explore a wider range of possible nature-based solutions for water management.
    Project lead Dr Josie Geris, a lecturer in hydrology at the University of Aberdeen, said the techniques they are investigating, including soil and vegetation management, could bring benefits beyond the whisky industry as around three percent of people living in Scotland rely on vulnerable private water supplies.
    “First, we will take a comprehensive look at data gathered from across Speyside and carry out detailed monitoring at The Glenlivet and two other distillery sites to develop understanding of how surface water and groundwater are connected, and how this varies across the different locations.” she added.
    “This will help us to assess how resilient different water resources in Speyside are to drought and to understand what causes certain water resources to be more vulnerable whether it is driven by geology, land use or other issues.
    “We will then use modelling to help future planning and our understanding of which nature-based solutions might work best where to mitigate water scarcity across the region.”
    The research team, which also includes Dr Mark Wilkinson (James Hutton Institute), Dr Ronald Daalmans (Chivas Brothers) Dr Jean-Christophe Comte, and PhD student Jennifer Pirie (University of
    Aberdeen), will investigate a range of techniques at The Glenlivet, Glenburgie and Aberlour distilleries.
    PhD student Jennifer Pirie, from the University of Aberdeen, said: “The techniques used successfully at Glenlivet cannot be applied everywhere and so we are looking at a range of measures to improve water availability in different environments.
    “What works best where will depend on local site characteristics, like the geology and soil properties, and so it is vital we build this understanding and knowledge.”
    As well as drought conditions, the techniques the team will use could also help with flooding and are applicable to other environmental issues such as improvements to carbon storage, water quality and biodiversity.
    Dr Mark Wilkinson, from the James Hutton Institute, said: “There is significant interest from diverse stakeholders for these ‘green solutions’ to environmental problems and the project is designed to share insights and to develop a toolkit of options for different environments and users.”
    Ronald Daalmans, Sustainability Director at Chivas Brothers, said: “This important work will help inform the whisky sector on how it can adapt and mitigate the effects of climate change for this critical resource. It forms part of a wider programme, called The River Within, which aims to support river restoration and enhancement in North-East Scotland.”
    In addition to supporting research projects, Chivas Brothers’ The River Within, a long-term programme in partnership with three Scottish river trusts – the Deveron, Bogie and Isla Rivers Charitable Trust, Findhorn, Nairn and Lossie Rivers Trust, and the Spey Catchment Initiative – aims to support the delivery of habitat restoration projects to ultimately preserve, protect and improve the health of Scotland’s rivers and waterways.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Councillors to review parking changes

    Source: City of York

    Following feedback from local residents and businesses, several changes to car parking charges are being considered at June’s Executive Meeting.

    In April, new pricing for car parking was introduced after being approved at Budget Full Council.

    Since the implementation of the new charges, the council has listened to residents and businesses most affected by the changes who have shared their concerns.  

    As a result,  Executive will review the parking arrangements at the meeting on 3 June 2025 and consider a number of proposed changes. Executive will also be asked to agree to a consultation as part of a review of the impact of carparking charges on the economy and communities, the outcome of which will be taken to a future Executive meeting.

    An initial analysis of the economic impact is very positive, with Parliament Street showing an increase in footfall of 28.7% year on year comparing April figures and an increase in spend of 3.7% year on year, continuing to buck the national trend. 

    Councillor Claire Douglas, Leader of City of York Council said: 

    We have recognised the strength of feeling and feedback from local communities following the implementation of new parking charges and continue to listen to concerns. At the upcoming Executive meeting we will consider a number of options which seek to address the issues raised, while still supporting our ambitions to develop a healthier, more sustainable and better connected city.

    “Setting a budget is never easy and we are very grateful for those who responded to the consultation carried out over several months last year, whether attending a workshop or filling in our survey.  I look forward to having further discussions.”

    Councillor Kate Ravilious, Executive Member for Transport said:

    Money from car parking goes straight back into improving our highways and public transport. This year we have increased investment in our highway maintenance programme to £10M, meaning more potholes are being repaired on York’s roads – with over 9,000 repaired last year alone.

    “We are also investing over £50M in sustainable travel improvements, including ticket concessions for young people, better real time information and in the Station Gateway scheme which includes a bus interchange. This is all focused on making it easier for everyone to get around. To do this we must tackle congestion which residents have told us has a detrimental impact on how they live and work in the city, including their health and wellbeing.

    “In recent weeks I have been listening to local residents and businesses. Everyone’s love and support for our incredible independent businesses has shone through.. One of the great strengths of the city is the vibrant local economies that residents enjoy in their local areas. We continue to listen and as a result we are looking at reviewing some of the parking charges in line with our transport strategy and using a data led and evidence based approach.”

    At the meeting, Executive will consider a range of interim options which could be introduced while a review into the impact of the car parking charges takes place. These include:

    • approving an increase in the discount for the Minster Badge to 30% of the standard parking charge, from the current 24% to reduce the impact of increased parking charges on residents
    • maintaining existing pricing at all city centre car parks
    • introduce an “outside the inner ring road” lower parking rate including Bishopthorpe Road, which it’s proposed is moved in line with charges approved for community car parks at East Parade and Rowntree Park in the council’s 2025-26 Budget. This would mean Bishopthorpe Road car park would become £3 per hour with a maximum stay of three hours, it would be £2.10 per hour for Minster Badge holders. It will also mean no Friday, Saturday or event uplift and no evening charge in these car parks
    • approving the adjustment of charges in the Micklegate and Priory Street area to the ‘outside the inner ring road’ on-street parking rate, rather than its existing higher city centre rate to recognise the anomalously low parking charges in this area previously and to give local businesses time to adjust. This will be reviewed in the future. City centre evening parking rates for this area will still apply.
    • approving that East Parade Car Park should remain matched to the ‘outer’ on-street local parking rate to ensure consistency across out of city centre parking and reflect the different nature of local shopping areas outside of the immediate city centre.
    • removing the proposed charges for dedicated motorcycle bays. to recognise that the motorcycle bays are generally in locations where a car space is not possible. 
    • increase the discount for Low Emission vehicle permits to 20%, from the current 16% discount to set a discount that better reflects the contribution of all types of vehicles to congestion and takes in account the land-use impact of vehicle parking 
    • approve that Contract Parking permits are no longer linked to Season Tickets, and will be set at last year’s prices, plus circa 5% increase, with a 20% discount for low emission vehicles to recognise the unique circumstances of the small number of residents who live within the city walls without access to Resident parking schemes.
    • to undertake a review and develop a policy position around travel to places of worship.
    • accept the challenge to review parking charges under the Traffic Management Act 2004, this will include consultation with businesses and residents and community groups.

    If approved, the new charges will need to be advertised for 21 days in accordance with legislation, meaning those charges implemented will come into effect late June/early July and be subject to a pending review.

    Should Executive approve a change to the amount paid for the low vehicle emission discount, Contract, Season and ResPark permits holders will be refunded the difference with more details of this to follow.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Anxious over AI? One way to cope is by building your uniquely human skills

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Nitin Deckha, Lecturer in Justice Studies, Early Childhood Studies, Community and Social Services and Electives, University of Guelph-Humber

    The concern over the loss and transformation of work by generative AI is well-founded and widely documented. (Shutterstock)

    We live in a time of growing anxiety and fear, where the disruptive forces of artificial intelligence (AI), automation, Big Data, virtual reality and augmented reality loom ominously over people’s lives.

    In a recent Scientific American article, psychologist Mary Alvord described how these anxieties are manifesting in her clients. Their concerns ranged from the increase in students cheating with generative AI to the erosion of online data privacy, to more existential fears of job loss and even the “possibility of overall human obsolescence.”

    These aren’t abstract concerns. Beyond the psychologist’s chair, the concern over the loss and transformation of work by generative AI is well-founded and widely documented by academic research studies and reports. As AI becomes more capable and embedded in daily routines, anxieties surrounding it are likely to intensify.

    The future of work

    The World Economic Forum’s (WEF) 2025 Future of Jobs Report found that 85.7 per cent of employers surveyed see AI, information processing, Big Data, virtual reality and augmented reality as the biggest technological driver of business transformation. Robots and automation follow at 57.8 per cent.

    While the report notes that long-term productivity gains from these technologies remain uncertain, it found that certain jobs are being impacted more than others. Roles where generative AI can mimic human capacities — like data entry, administration, legal and executive secretaries, claim adjusters and examiners, and graphic designers — are declining the fastest.

    These findings are corroborated by a recent joint report from the International Labour Organization (ILO) and Poland’s National Research Institute. It found that 25 per cent of jobs are at risk of being changed by generative AI, a number that jumps to 34 per cent in higher-income countries.

    Roles where generative AI can mimic human capacities, like administration, are most at risk of job loss.
    (Shutterstock)

    The report also noted a gendered impact: in high-income countries, 9.6 per cent of jobs held by women are at high risk of automation, compared to just 3.5 per cent of jobs held by men.

    The impact on clerical jobs noted by the WEF is supported by ILO’s data as well. Joining these roles are what the ILO describes as “highly digitized cognitive jobs in media, software, and finance-related” fields.

    The significant exposure of jobs such as securities and finance dealers and brokers, software developers, financial advisers, authors and writers, translators, interpreters and journalists underscores the encroachment of generative AI onto all sorts of “thinking” and creative work.

    It is no wonder psychologists like Alvord suggest some humans are questioning what role they will have in the future world of work.

    Work in a time of disruption

    The COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on work — including the “great resignation” which saw record numbers of employees quitting their jobs — encouraged workers to reflect on their relationship to work.

    Although workplace trends like remote work, flexible hours and employees re-evaluating their job expectations were already underway before the pandemic, COVID-19 accelerated these shifts.

    According to futurists at Policy Horizons Canada, there are a number of “game changers” transforming the future of work. Disruptive technologies like generative AI and automation are just one driver.



    Read more:
    Generative AI can boost innovation – but only when humans are in control

    Another major force is the fraying of the social contract between employers and employees. This shift speaks to larger currents of anxiety, fear and employee disengagement and low morale. Put simply, employers and employees are no longer investing in each other as much as before.

    With the erosion of benefits, the rise of the gig economy and the increasing cost of living, employees were already feeling vulnerable and anxious about their work before the launch of ChatGPT in 2023.

    How can we cope with AI anxiety?

    As with any form of anxiety, it’s important to acknowledge your feelings and take steps to avoid becoming overwhelmed.

    Psychologists suggest several specific strategies for managing anxiety about generative AI. These include: trying out AI tools to figure out how and where they can be useful; taking breaks from technology to restore and revitalize; building new skills; and pursuing activities that activate human creativity and imagination.

    I would like to expand on the third strategy — building new skills. In a recent research study, my colleagues and I investigated the skills that are required to succeed in the future of work. We reviewed six research studies from around the world and created a skills inventory of future of work skills.

    One of the most effective responses to anxiety about AI is focusing on developing our own human capacities.
    (Shutterstock)

    We identified 10 skills that were most frequently identified as key for the future of work: collaboration, communication, creativity and innovation, critical thinking, cross-cultural competency, decision-making and judgment, learning/willingness to learn, problem-solving and social intelligence/perceptiveness.

    For those concerned about remaining employable in the face of AI disruption, focusing on these skills is a practical starting point, as they are likely to remain in demand as workplaces evolve.

    Importantly, all these skills are “human” skills, meaning not digital or technological. In this context, perhaps one of the most effective responses to anxiety about AI is focusing on developing our own human capacities.

    Rethinking our relationship with AI and work

    Researchers argue that the disruptive potential of AI in the workplace involves one of three channels: replacing aspects of human work; complementing or augmenting human workers and their skills; and creating new tasks for workers.

    Of these, the second — complementing or augmenting human work — might be the best path forward. Rather than viewing generative AI solely as a threat, it can be seen as a tool that enhances human abilities.

    Exploring how our own cognitive and creative capacities could be augmented through “collaborative intelligence” with generative AI, might be a useful antidote to being anxious about it.

    Such collaboration may also catalyze our re-imagining of our relationship to work and enhance our sense of purpose in a rapidly changing world.

    Nitin Deckha 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. Anxious over AI? One way to cope is by building your uniquely human skills – https://theconversation.com/anxious-over-ai-one-way-to-cope-is-by-building-your-uniquely-human-skills-256213

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Knightsbridge Partnership BID ballot results | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Congratulations to Knightsbridge Partnership on their successful BID Ballot result.

    As part of our statutory duty, we were appointed to hold a ballot for the proposed Knightsbridge Property Owner BID.

    On Friday 23 May 2025, it was announced that the proposed BID had been successful in their ballot. 108 out of 109 votes were cast, with the majority of the business ratepayers in the proposed BID area who voted, voting in favour of the proposal, both by aggregate rateable value (99%) and numbers voting (99%).

    The BID term for the Knightsbridge Property Owner BID will commence from 1 June 2025. The BID ballot opened on 22 April 2025 and closed on 22 May 2025. The BID ballot results were declared on 23 May 2025. This brings the total number of BIDs across Westminster to 19.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Avison Young practices what it preaches by backing Stoke-on-Trent regeneration project

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Global property advisor, Avison Young, has put its weight behind Capital&Centric’s Goods Yard in Stoke-on-Trent, taking the entire Pavilion building and relocating its East Midlands team.

    The news comes after Stoke-on-Trent was named by the Sunday Times as one of the best places to invest in the UK earlier this year.

    Both organisations champion the role of urban regeneration and placemaking in improving people’s lives and creating economic growth. Social impact developer, Capital&Centric spends £3m a week on regeneration in towns and cities across the UK, with Goods Yard already creating hundreds of jobs and boosting the local economy by £63m.

    Avison Young will bring further jobs, training and investment into the new neighbourhood when it relocates in the spring.

    It’s not the first time that the two organisations have teamed up, with Avison Young joining forces with Capital&Centric’s Regeneration Brainery, an immersive national programme that aims to get young people from diverse backgrounds fired up about a career in the industry.

    Tom Wilmot, joint managing director at Capital&Centric, said: “There’s a massive buzz about Stoke-on-Trent, with Goods Yard right at the heart of this renaissance. It’s a real vote of confidence from Avison Young in not just the Goods Yard neighbourhood but also the city. What better way to support regeneration than putting your money where your mouth is and calling the place home. Our vision for Goods Yard has always been to create a collaborative mixing pot for like-minded businesses and we’ll be announcing more soon.”

    Nick Walkley, principal and UK president of Avison Young UK, said: “Our presence in Stoke has been long-standing, and moving to this outstanding space underlines our commitment to the city and the UK regions. This new office is going to be a vastly improved environment for our Avison Young colleagues in Stoke. We look forward to working closely with Stoke-on-Trent City Council and with Capital&Centric.”

    Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, cabinet member for transport, infrastructure and regeneration at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “We are delighted to have worked with Capital & Centric to bring the Goods Yard to Stoke-on-Trent and make it a success. This long-awaited development will bring with it economic benefits and new opportunities for businesses, local residents and visitors.

    We are delighted that Avison Young have chosen to base themselves in Stoke-on-Trent and wish them the best of luck in their new home. It’s a remarkable vote of confidence in our city and our future. 

    “I know talks are ongoing with a number of other businesses who have also shown an interest in Goods Yard and we look forward to welcoming them too.”

    With a new direct link to the neighbouring Stoke-on-Trent main line rail station, the 174-home neighbourhood will feature a mix of spaces, with Capital&Centric assembling a complementary variety of businesses, bars, eateries, coffee shops and stores that want to be at the heart of the action when it opens in the spring.

    Goods Yard will also boast a new green space, about the size of a professional tennis court, and a footpath, which will wind through lush plants and shrubs, leading to the interior gardens, with hangout spaces, seating, over 70 trees and stacks of new plants.

    Avison Young is the first commercial business to take space at Goods Yard. Flexible spaces range from 1,200 sq ft to 14,000 sqft and include the Vaults Warehouse; the Victorian Signal Box on Glebe Street; the new build Pavilion workspaces; and the industrial style new build spaces on the ground floor of the apartment building.

    For more information visit www.capitalandcentric.com/goods-yard or email goodsyard@capitalandcentric.com

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Spode Works gets the green light for game-changing regeneration

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Wednesday, 28th May 2025

    Capital&Centric and Stoke-on-Trent City Council have secured the go-ahead to transform the iconic Spode Works into a landmark destination, breathing new life into this historic pottery factory.

    Spode Works, covering around 10 acres in the heart of Stoke town centre, is a warren of buildings, kilns and workshops that tells the story of centuries of craftsmanship. The site includes multiple Grade II listed buildings – around 11 of them – that showcase classic industrial architecture and the evolution of the pottery works.

    The council’s cabinet has signed off on the partnership, setting the stage for a major overhaul that will blend these historic structures with bold new architecture. The plans will see Spode Works reimagined as a buzzing neighbourhood of homes, creative workspaces and vibrant public spaces, building on the site’s emerging CreaTech (creative technology) community.

    For over two centuries, Spode Works was at the heart of the UK’s ceramics industry. Its fine bone china and underglaze blue transfer printing put Stoke-on-Trent on the global map. Now, the ambition is to honour that legacy, repurposing the site’s heritage for the next generation of digital design, gaming, animation and other creative industries.

    Capital&Centric is already working on detailed plans and will be consulting with locals later this year.

    Tom Wilmot, Joint Managing Director of Capital&Centric, said: “Spode Works is a testament to Stoke-on-Trent’s proud industrial past and a huge opportunity to shape its future. We’re not just restoring bricks and mortar – we’re creating a landmark neighbourhood that taps into the city’s creative energy. This will be a catalyst for attracting new people, new ideas and new investment into the area.”

    Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, cabinet member for transport, regeneration and infrastructure at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “The regeneration of the Spode site will provide the opportunity for businesses and organisations to operate from a unique location, in the heart of the city.

    “It will create employment and economic benefits, which will help to ensure the long-term survival of this site and bring with it the potential of attracting further external funding that otherwise would not have been possible.

    “Capital & Centric has a long track record of delivering regeneration projects and is already working closely with the council to deliver Goods Yard, next to the railway station. We are pleased that they are committed to working with us in the future to develop another important heritage site in the city.”

    The partnership builds on Capital&Centric’s track record of delivering award-winning regeneration of historic sites, including the soon-to-open Goods Yard neighbourhood in Stoke-on-Trent – a £63 million transformation of a derelict warehouse into 174 homes and community spaces.

    Currently investing £3 million a week across eight live construction sites, Capital&Centric is driving regeneration in towns and cities nationwide – from Wolverhampton to Gateshead and Sheffield. The developer recently announced its biggest project to date: creating a whole new town in Cambridgeshire plus 2,000 homes. The town is called Northstowe, the UK’s latest new town.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Plaid Cymru leader meets EU ambassador to strengthen Wales-Europe ties

    Source: Party of Wales

    Rhun ap Iorwerth says there is a ‘pro-European government in waiting’ in Wales

    Plaid Cymru Leader Rhun ap Iorwerth has today met with the European Union’s Ambassador to the UK, Pedro Serrano, at Europe House in London to discuss strengthening Wales’s relationship with Europe and deepening cooperation in key areas.

    The meeting followed the recent EU-UK summit, where Prime Minister Keir Starmer and EU leaders agreed to ease some post-Brexit trade and travel frictions. While welcoming the progress, Mr ap Iorwerth said the deal did not go far enough and called on the UK Government to pursue a more ambitious reset of relations, including moving towards rejoining the Single Market and Customs Union.

    Since leaving the EU, Wales has suffered disproportionately, with losses estimated at £4 billion to the economy, a £1.1 billion reduction in exports, and the disappearance of £1 billion in former EU structural and rural funding. Post-Brexit trade deals have also weakened the position of Welsh agriculture and manufacturing.

    Plaid Cymru is pressing the UK Government to do more than tinker at the edges and instead restore meaningful economic and political ties with the EU.

    The meeting also turned to foreign affairs issues, with Mr ap Iorwerth also raising concerns over Israel’s actions in Gaza and reiterating his party’s support for Ukraine.

    Speaking after the meeting, Rhun ap Iorwerth said:

    “I thank the Ambassador for a constructive meeting on the important relationship between Wales and the EU. Ahead of next year’s Senedd election, I wanted to make clear to our EU partners that with Plaid Cymru, there is a pro-European government in waiting in Wales that is serious and honest about the importance of improving our cooperation with our neighbours.

    “The recent summit must be seen as a beginning, not an endpoint. Brexit has caused deep damage to Wales’s economy, and unless the structural barriers to trade and investment are removed, the UK Government’s growth ambitions will remain unrealised. Rejoining the Single Market and Customs Union is the most effective way to reverse this damage. This is about giving Welsh businesses, farmers and young people the opportunities they deserve.

    “I reiterated Plaid Cymru’s proposal for a Welsh European Alignment Act – to reclaim powers we should never have lost and realign Welsh law with essential EU standards when in Wales’s best interest.

     

    The meeting also touched on a number of other foreign affairs issues, including Gaza and Ukraine. Mr ap Iorwerth said:

    “Plaid Cymru has consistently spoken out against Israel’s use of disproportionate force, and I welcome the EU’s decision to initiate a review of Israel’s compliance with its obligations under international law under the EU-Israel Association Agreement. I voiced my horror at Israel’s crimes in Gaza. I also reiterated that any future Plaid Cymru-led government would be committed to European cooperation in support of Ukraine.

    “Plaid Cymru offers a vision of hope – of a Wales that works with our neighbours, stands up for human rights, and gives our young people a future to believe in.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Government must act now or be forever complicit in Gaza genocide

    Source: Scottish Greens

    28 May 2025 Peace

    Greens call on UK Government to stop supporting Israel’s genocide

    More in Peace

    The Scottish Greens co-leader, Patrick Harvie has called on the Labour Government to take immediate and decisive action to end its complicity in what legal experts and international observers increasingly describe as a genocide in Gaza.

    Mr Harvie responded to the powerful statement in a letter signed by more than 800 lawyers, including former Supreme Court justices, which condemns the UK’s failure to uphold international humanitarian law and urges Prime Minister Keir Starmer to impose sanctions on Israeli ministers and consider suspending Israel from the United Nations.

    The letter from legal experts outlines growing evidence of grave breaches of international law, asserting that the UK’s continued inaction places it in clear violation of its own legal obligations under the Genocide Convention and other international frameworks.

    Mr Havie, said:

    “When atrocities are being inflicted on this scale, it doesn’t just warrant condemnation – it demands real, urgent action. Keir Starmer’s recent lukewarm comments about the Netanyahu regime, which even Labour and Tory backbenchers have criticised as inadequate, amount to little more than empty words.

    “Sadly there is a gulf between rhetoric and reality. The Prime Minister claimed to have suspended trade talks with Israel, yet just days later the UK Trade Envoy, Lord Ian Austin, was in Israel as a guest of its government. Even as the UK, France, and Canada issued a joint statement expressing concern, the RAF was deploying surveillance aircraft to assist the Israeli military. This is complicity.

    “The people of Palestine need urgent help, they need strong action from the international community in the face of this genocide. We have consistently called on the UK Government to impose targeted sanctions on the Israeli political and military leaders responsible for these war crimes. They must immediately end all arms exports and military cooperation with Israel, demand an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, recognise the State of Palestine, and advocate for Israel’s suspension from international bodies, including the United Nations, until compliance with international law is resrestored.

    “In Scotland we must act as well. It is not good enough for the Scottish Government to call for an immediate ceasefire and continue to line the pockets of war profiteers. The SNP Government’s business unit, Scottish Enterprise, has poured public money into companies that are arming Israel and profiting from the destruction.

    “The UK cannot continue to provide political cover, arms, and intelligence to a regime that stands accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity. History will remember those who stayed silent and those who took a stand. The time for action is now.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UNECE supports e-mobility development in Belarus and beyond

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    As countries across the UNECE region move towards cleaner and more efficient transport systems, UNECE energy and transport experts have been working to advance electric mobility through the implementation of a regional project that has delivered tangible results, including a comprehensive regional study and subsequent national-level activities.  

    UNECE continues to provide countries with the tools and insights needed to accelerate the decarbonization of inland transport, as well as with technical and policy support through the development of targeted knowledge resources. At a recent national workshop in Minsk, dedicated to assessing the readiness of the energy sector to implement smart digital energy-efficient technologies in Belarus in view of climate change mitigation, UNECE experts presented two recent publications, aimed at supporting the informed decision-making on electric mobility. 

    The workshop was co-organized by UNECE, UNDP Belarus, and the Department for Energy Efficiency of the State Committee for Standardization of the Republic of Belarus. The event brought together government officials at the national and local levels, and other national stakeholders to explore strategic options for advancing e-mobility in Belarus, drawing on lessons from the UNECE region. 

    Advancing e-mobility through regional experience 

    The “Electrification of Mobility” publication, developed under the UNECE Working Party on Transport Trends and Economics (WP.5), provides a consolidated overview of regional trends and practical policy insights for the electrification of road, rail, and inland waterway transport. It examines: 

    • Common challenges such as infrastructure readiness, vehicle affordability, and supply chain resilience 

    The publication was developed with extrabudgetary support from the Netherlands, contributing both funding and technical input to UNECE’s broader work on sustainable transport. 

    Compendium on charging infrastructure and energy integration 

    The “E-Mobility Compendium: Best Practices and Case Studies on EV Charging Infrastructure Deployment and Energy System Integration”  brings together practical, real-world case studies that demonstrate how countries are advancing the deployment of charging infrastructure and its integration with energy systems. 

    The compendium showcases diverse examples, including: 

    • Strategic placement of charging infrastructure in urban and rural areas 

    • Governance, financing, and public-private collaboration models 

    Although regional in scope, the compendium is designed to be adaptable to national contexts, including that of Belarus, offering valuable guidance to countries that are shaping their own e-mobility frameworks.  

    Strengthening the knowledge base through UNECE E-Mobility Task Force 

    Recognizing the need for continued knowledge exchange and coordination across transport and energy systems, the UNECE E-Mobility Task Force was launched in 2024. It is mandated by the UNECE Inland Transport Committee (ITC) and the Committee on Sustainable Energy (CSE), and co-chaired by the Chairs of WP.5 and the Group of Experts on Cleaner Electricity Systems. 

    Organized into thematic workstreams, the initiative supports the advancement of EV technology, charging infrastructure, and clean energy integration. It facilitates the exchange of best practices and coordinates efforts to guide long-term planning and Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) deployment. Key areas of focus include smart and bidirectional charging, regulatory frameworks that ensure affordability and transparency, harmonized technical standards, and enhanced cybersecurity. The initiative also promotes user-friendly payment systems, accessible grid connections, and effective communication of charging capabilities. 

    In addition, it provides guidance for national infrastructure planning, supports the convergence of existing protocols into de jure standards to enable international interoperability of charging systems, and explores how land use strategies can improve accessibility and reduce mobility needs. With broad engagement from governments, industry, academia, and civil society, the initiative ensures inclusive and actionable progress toward a sustainable e-mobility future. 

    This informal Task Force serves as a collaborative platform to: 

    • Support the development and sharing of policy-relevant knowledge to guide national efforts in the transition to electric mobility 
    • Promote regulatory and technical coherence across the UNECE region to enhance interoperability, standardization, and cross-border coordination 

    The UNECE E-Mobility Task Force will continue to play a central role in enriching the E-Mobility Compendium with new case studies and practical examples. These will be incorporated into an upcoming online quick-start guide designed to support policymakers and practitioners with accessible, actionable insights adaptable to national contexts in specific countries. 

    Photo credit: Adobe Stock Images by Nitiphol

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Societe Generale: the Board of Directors launches a co-option procedure of a woman Director

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS LAUNCHES A CO-OPTION PROCEDURE OF A WOMAN DIRECTOR

    Press release

    Paris, 28 May 2025

    The Board of Directors, on 28 May 2025, acknowledged the resignation of Mrs. Béatrice Cossa-Dumurgier from her duties as Director of Societe Generale, incompatible with her new professional responsibilities.

    This resignation was notified to Societe Generale with immediate effect.

    Consequently, in accordance with Article L. 225-24 paragraph 4 of the French Commercial Code, upon the proposal of the Nomination and Corporate Governance Committee, a co-option procedure of a woman director has been launched.

    Mr. Lorenzo Bini Smaghi, Chairman of the Board of Directors, thanks Mrs. Béatrice Cossa-Dumurgier for her participation in the work of the Societe Generale Board of Directors.

    Press contacts:
    Jean-Baptiste Froville_+33 1 58 98 68 00_ jean-baptiste.froville@socgen.com
    Fanny Rouby_+33 1 57 29 11 12_ fanny.rouby@socgen.com

    Societe Generale

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Syneris Launches to Break Barriers in AI Infrastructure with Decentralized Compute Power

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BIRKIRKARA, Malta, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Syneris.tech officially announces the launch of its full-stack Decentralized AI Infrastructure, aiming to transform the global AI development landscape by unlocking affordable AI development at scale. As demand for artificial intelligence continues to surge across sectors, Syneris steps in with a bold mission: to decentralize access to high-performance computing, enabling more builders, startups, researchers, and enterprises to create and deploy AI without the traditional limitations of cost, centralization, and technical gatekeeping.

    “We believe the future of AI shouldn’t belong to a handful of tech giants,” says the Syneris team. “It should be open, collaborative, and powered by the people.”

    A Global Problem Meets a Scalable Solution

    In today’s AI race, the high cost of computing remains a major bottleneck. Traditional GPU resources are increasingly monopolized by a handful of tech giants, making access to AI computing platforms prohibitively expensive for smaller teams and independent developers. Training advanced models like GPT-4 or AlphaGo can cost between $10 – 20 million, requiring thousands of high-performance GPUs.

    Ironically, more than 50% of global GPU capacity is sitting idle — locked away in personal devices, gaming rigs, and institutional hardware that’s rarely optimized for AI workloads.

    At the same time:

    – 85% of AI startups cite compute costs as a top barrier to model training and deployment.

    – Cloud GPU prices have tripled over the past two years due to supply shortages and centralized control.

    – Over 70% of global AI infrastructure is owned by fewer than five major tech corporations.

    This level of centralization stifles innovation, restricts access, and deepens inequality in the AI ecosystem. It turns progress into a privilege of scale, not a function of talent or creativity.

    Syneris offers a better way. Our hybrid GPU computing network aggregates underused GPUs and CPUs from across the globe and transforms them into a Decentralized AI Infrastructure. This approach dramatically reduces cost while unlocking access to computing resources for the 99%.

    Contributors are rewarded with transparent, token-based incentives — creating a fair and self-sustaining ecosystem where computational power is not hoarded, but shared.

    Built for Builders: AI Tools for All

    At the heart of Syneris is a complete suite of tools for the AI development lifecycle. From code-free model creation to enterprise-grade deployment, the AI computing platform supports users of all technical backgrounds. Developers can build and test models with intelligent assistance, including real-time coding support and automated debugging tools. Non-developers can experiment with powerful no-code and low-code interfaces, crafting custom models using pre-built templates and visual workflows.

    Through its flagship product line, Syneris Generation AI, users can generate human-like content across text, images, video, and voice with minimal resource consumption. These tools open doors for applications in marketing, media, automation, education, and beyond — all part of a commitment to affordable AI development.

    AI World: A Decentralized Marketplace for AI Intelligence

    Syneris is not just an infrastructure provider — it is also a Decentralized AI Marketplace. The “AI World” platform allows model creators to publish, monetize, and continuously improve their AI models. Businesses can browse categorized libraries of AI solutions tailored to industry verticals, performance needs, and budget constraints. Transparent performance metrics, reviews, and demo options ensure reliability and reduce decision-making risk.

    This Decentralized AI Marketplace fosters open collaboration, allowing builders and users to connect, share feedback, and co-create higher-value solutions. All transactions are executed with Syneris tokens, ensuring seamless commerce within a secure digital economy.

    Strategic Scaling Through Smart Integration

    To ensure scalability from day one, Syneris has strategically integrated with leading GPU computing networks such as Aethir and io.net. This enables the AI computing platform to meet immediate computational demand while it concurrently develops its proprietary infrastructure.

    Over time, Syneris aims to reduce dependency on third-party systems and move toward full operational independence — without compromising on performance, scalability, or global reach.

    Looking ahead, the platform’s long-term vision is to become a fully self-sustaining, community-owned Decentralized AI Infrastructure — empowering millions to access AI freely, without the need for permission or the burden of premium costs imposed by centralized gatekeepers.

    Laying the Foundation for an Open AI Future

    As artificial intelligence redefines the way societies function, there is a growing responsibility to ensure that the benefits of AI are broadly distributed — not concentrated in the hands of the few. Syneris recognizes this need and responds with a technically sophisticated yet community-first approach. It is not just enabling access to AI tools; it is reshaping the ownership model of AI infrastructure itself.

    Developers, GPU contributors, AI builders, and enterprises are invited to become part of the Syneris ecosystem — where intelligence is built together, not rented from the top.

    Explore Syneris

    Website: https://syneris.tech
    X/Twitter: https://x.com/syneris_ai
    Telegram: https://t.me/synerisai
    Discord: https://discord.gg/A5QDgunqXD
    Contact: contact@syneris.tech
    Name: Peter Miles

    About Syneris

    Syneris is a Decentralized AI Infrastructure and AI computing platform built to democratize access to machine intelligence. By connecting unused GPU and CPU resources into a global GPU computing network, Syneris provides scalable, affordable AI development and a dynamic Decentralized AI Marketplace, all underpinned by a contributor-driven token economy.

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by Syneris. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector–including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining–complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4eaf1109-1977-43ef-bb72-af0b2da8afbe

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/565c6179-3c93-4095-9b08-228ca0a32137

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e1c3cfb0-6aa0-4dc6-bd7b-45db5a78c675

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Israel must immediately let aid into Gaza and enable the UN to operate: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Israel must immediately let aid into Gaza and enable the UN to operate: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on the Middle East.

    I thank Special Coordinator Sigrid Kaag and Dr Sidwah for their briefings today, which painted a catastrophic picture.

    Let me pay tribute to you and to your humanitarian and health worker colleagues working tirelessly to alleviate this suffering.

    I will make three points. 

    First, the UK has always supported Israel’s right to defend itself. It suffered a heinous attack by Hamas on 7 October, and hostages have been through an unimaginable ordeal. We reiterate our call for their immediate and unconditional release and accountability for those responsible. 

    But as my Prime Minister has said, we strongly oppose the Israeli Government’s escalating military action in Gaza which is wholly disproportionate. 

    An immediate ceasefire, not more bloodshed, is the way to secure the release of the hostages and stop the endless cycle of violence. 

    Second, as we have heard again today, the level of human suffering in Gaza is intolerable. Civilians face starvation, displacement and trauma. 

    The UN warned of the risks from the Israeli Government’s plan for aid delivery. In Rafah yesterday, we saw this warning become a reality. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation lost control of its distribution centre, with multiple casualties reported and great distress for those desperately seeking aid. 

    In contrast, the UN has a clear plan to deliver lifesaving aid at scale. It contains robust mitigations against aid diversion. Brave humanitarians stand ready to do their jobs. 9,000 trucks wait at the border. 

    Our message to Prime Minister Netanyahu is clear: let aid in and enable the UN to operate, now. 

    We reiterate our support for the UN, OCHA and all its aid agencies.

    We also reject the Israeli Government’s unacceptable intention to take control of the Gaza Strip. Permanent forced displacement is a breach of international humanitarian law. 

    Third, President, in the West Bank, violent settlers continue to assault and abuse Palestinians, forcing entire communities to flee. In Jerusalem, provocative visits to Holy Sites and inflammatory language by Israeli ministers are adding to the tensions. 

    On 20 May, the UK announced further sanctions on individuals and entities promoting violence against Palestinian communities in the West Bank. 

    We will continue to act against those committing these abuses. 

    President, the UK will not give up on a two-state solution, and we will continue to work closely with France, Saudi Arabia and all our partners towards a successful conference in June, which moves us towards this goal. 

    And finally, let me finish by condemning the horrific murders of Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim in Washington DC last week, and offering condolences to their families and to their colleagues.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Get your votes in for KGV!

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    The brand-new King George V Football Complex has been nominated for a prestigious SECBE Constructing Excellence award in the ‘Integration and Collaborative Working’ category!

    It is more than just a sports facility – it’s a symbol of what’s possible when communities, councils, and partners come together. Thanks to an £8.1m investment led by Portsmouth City Council and the Football Foundation, the site has been transformed into a thriving hub for grassroots sport and youth engagement.

    With over 140,000 visits since opening under the stewardship of Hampshire FA, it’s clear the community is embracing this space. From top-tier pitches to youth-friendly spaces and a welcoming café, KGV is helping young people find positive paths through sport and connection.

    You can help the project win the People’s Choice award by voting for it online. It only takes a minute, just follow the link below and then ‘Vote for your finalist’ button at the top of the page!

    Vote now

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN welcomes President of the French Republic to the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today welcomed President of the French Republic, H.E. Emmanuel Macron, to the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. This historic visit underscored France’s steadfast commitment to deepening the ASEAN-France Development Partnership, as both sides celebrate the fifth anniversary of their relations this year. This visit is part of the President’s regional tour, which includes Indonesia, Singapore and Viet Nam.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN welcomes President of the French Republic to the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –