NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Foreign trade minister Reinette Klever: prosperity and resilience at the forefront of Dutch trade policy

    Source: Government of the Netherlands

    News item | 28-05-2025 | 17:24

    Foreign trade is the cornerstone of the Dutch economy. The Netherlands earns roughly a third of its total income abroad. Foreign trade also provides some 2.6 million full-time jobs – about a third of all jobs in the Netherlands. But an open economy also makes the Netherlands vulnerable to turmoil in global markets.

    The government has therefore decided to implement an assertive trade policy. Priority will be given to what is good for the country’s economy (prosperity) and what is important for its security (resilience).

    Speaking today, Ms Klever said, ‘This government will pursue a robust trade policy, focused on prosperity and a strong, resilient economy. We will continue to support our entrepreneurs abroad and invest in promising markets and high-potential sectors. The Netherlands is a trade champion and together we’ll make sure it stays that way, even in a turbulent world.’

    Promising markets and high-potential sectors

    The Netherlands will continue to invest in trusted partners and established markets where its businesses have long been successful. At the same time, the country is seeking new strategic partners, and the government is focusing on the promising markets of the future. These are countries that are expected to see strong economic growth in the coming decades, for example due to rapid population growth or major investment in education and research and development.

    The government is also explicitly targeting high-potential sectors and essential key technologies, such as semiconductors (microchips), quantum technology and photonics. These technologies are important not only for the Dutch economy, but also for our national security and technological leadership.

    Agreements within the EU

    Within the European Union, the government aims to advocate more explicitly for Dutch trade interests, for example during talks on trade agreements. The government will work to ensure a level playing field internationally, so that Dutch entrepreneurs have a fair chance to compete.

    In addition, it is committed to a well-functioning single European market, free from unnecessary rules. The Netherlands will also press for a constructive dialogue between the EU and the United States on import tariffs. At the same time, the government is ready to defend Dutch economic interests with countermeasures if dialogue does not lead to a positive outcome.

    Protecting sensitive technologies

    The government is also working to protect Dutch technologies, together with the EU and international partners. For example, the export of sensitive goods and technologies is being monitored to prevent them from falling into the wrong hands. The government is also actively implementing policy on knowledge security and overseeing the implementation of and compliance with sanctions.

    Support for Dutch businesses

    Supporting Dutch entrepreneurs remains a key part of the minister’s trade policy, for example through economic missions and assistance with international contract award procedures. The Netherlands has several grant and financing opportunities available for companies that want to do business internationally. Invest International and Atradius Dutch State Business also give entrepreneurs extra support to get high-risk projects abroad off the ground.

    Linking aid, trade and investment

    Finally, the government wants to link aid, trade and investment more firmly, as laid down in the policy letter on international development. The government is committed to working with Dutch companies in stable low- and middle-income countries. The focus is on areas where the Netherlands excels: food security, water management and health.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ARU Peterborough champions disabled entrepreneurs

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    Picture: Richard Fraser Photography

    ARU Peterborough has played a key role in a landmark report that outlines strategies to better support disabled entrepreneurs across the UK, potentially driving significant economic growth.

    The Lilac Review, an independent, Government-backed review to address the inequality disabled entrepreneurs face, has concluded that significant financial, operational, and accessibility barriers are holding back the nation’s disabled-led businesses.

    Disabled entrepreneurs represent 25% of the UK’s 5.45 million small businesses, but just 8.6% of business turnover. The Lilac Review estimates that removing these obstacles could unlock an additional £230 billion in UK business revenue.

    The research for The Lilac Review report was supported by Professor Tom Williamson and Dr Cheryl Greyson from ARU Peterborough in collaboration with Small Business Britain, with support from Lloyds.

    The ARU Peterborough academics analysed survey data from 750 disabled entrepreneurs and found that despite their resilience, disabled founders face additional and complex barriers to growth and funding. Over half (57%) of respondents identified financial support as their critical need for the coming year.

    Alongside a range of targeted support and tailored solutions, a key recommendation from The Lilac Review is to enhance the reach and impact of the new Disability Finance Code launched last December.

    The Lilac Review also highlights the importance of greater access to peer-led business networks and mentorship, with 51% of respondents indicating that bridging this gap would benefit them.

    The need to embed inclusivity at the heart of all future business support to build equity and opportunity was emphasised, with data showing 35% of disabled entrepreneurs find current programmes inaccessible.

    The Lilac Review also advocates for greater investment and innovation in inclusive AI training and skills development and AI-powered assistive technology, as well as placing accessibility and inclusion at the heart of AI policy and product development. This recognises the transformative potential of AI to level the business playing field.

    Professor Williamson of ARU Peterborough took part in the review’s Steering Board, alongside a number of prominent disabled founders and representatives from the wider business community including: Small Business Britain, Lloyds, eBay, BT, Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), The Entrepreneurs Network, and the Business Disability Forum.

    “We’re proud that ARU Peterborough has played a key role in this important new report. The recommendations could help empower millions of disabled entrepreneurs across the country, combat inequality and drive business growth, which could significantly benefit the UK economy.

    “The next phase of The Lilac Review will see us working closely with Small Business Britain over the next 12 months to develop the concept for The LILAC Centre for Disabled Entrepreneurship. This would be the UK’s first business incubator and research centre dedicated to advancing the success of disabled entrepreneurs, and our aim is for this to be hosted at ARU Peterborough.”

    Professor Williamson, Assistant Principal of ARU Peterborough and head of the Faculty of Business, Innovation and Entrepreneurship 

    “I’m proud to have co-chaired The Lilac Review and welcome its valuable insights and recommendations to help empower disabled entrepreneurship, tackle inequality, and unlock growth opportunities.

    “Through our Plan for Change, this government is committed to delivering further and faster economic growth. A key part of this is ensuring that those with the ambition to start and scale up a business have the right support to do so, no matter their background or circumstances.”

    Gareth Thomas, Minister for Small Businesses and co-chair of The Lilac Review

    “Disabled entrepreneurs are innovative, impactful, and growing. Yet we remain underrepresented, underfunded, and underestimated.

    “The Lilac Review is a bold and necessary step toward recognising the unique challenges that disabled entrepreneurs face – and more importantly, toward removing them. The findings of this report are clear: change is needed – not later, but now. That means inclusive finance, accessible business support, and communities that empower rather than exclude.

    “It has been an honour to co-chair this review, and I hope the voices within it spark action, partnership, and a fundamental rethinking of what opportunity should look like – for everyone.”

    Victoria Jenkins, co-chair of The Lilac Review and founder of Unhidden

    “Our university is driving forward real change in the workforce not only in Peterborough, but across the whole of the UK. The Lilac Review represents a real opportunity to level the playing field for disabled entrepreneurs and to remove some of the unique challenges they face.

    “The whole city is really proud of those who have been involved in this pioneering project and are now re-shaping the future of business in the UK.”

    Councillor Nick Thulbourn, cabinet member for growth and regeneration at Peterborough City Council

    For more information on The Lilac Review visit https://lilacreview.com/final-report

    ARU Peterborough is a partnership between Anglia Ruskin University, Peterborough City Council and the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK reaffirms its support for Ukraine’s self-defence, while President Putin rejects ceasefire as war deepens Russia’s economic and global isolation: UK Statement to the OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    UK reaffirms its support for Ukraine’s self-defence, while President Putin rejects ceasefire as war deepens Russia’s economic and global isolation: UK Statement to the OSCE

    UK Military Advisor, Lt Col Joby Rimmer, says that Russia’s invasion shatters European security and undermines peace. Despite President Putin’s claims, continued attacks show absolutely no intent to negotiate. The UK urges an immediate, lasting ceasefire to enable real dialogue and end the humanitarian crisis.

    Thank you, Madam Chair. The United Kingdom remains resolute in its commitment to supporting Ukraine in the face of Russia’s ongoing illegal invasion. Our immediate priority is to secure a ceasefire as swiftly as possible – one that endures long enough to create the conditions necessary for meaningful negotiations toward a robust and lasting peace.

    President Putin claims that he is interested in peace, all the while Russian attacks increasingly escalate the humanitarian crisis. These are not the actions of a government seeking peaceful resolution, but of one determined to prolong suffering and instability. Over the weekend, Russia launched a massive aerial assault involving 69 missiles and 298 drones, targeting over 30 cities and towns across Ukraine. At least 12 civilians, including children, were killed, and dozens more were injured. Kyiv was among the hardest hit, suffering casualties and significant damage during its Kyiv Day celebrations. A symbolic, cynical and deliberate act of aggression.

    At last week’s Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC), Russia accused NATO of ‘pumping up military budgets and militarising at the expense of ordinary taxpayers.’ As it continues to escalate the conflict, the economic toll on Russia’s own population is becoming increasingly severe: Interest rates in Russia have surged to 21%, reflecting deep financial instability; 40% of Russia’s federal government spending in 2025 has been committed to defence; for the first time in post-Soviet history, defence spending has exceeded social spending; Russia has depleted two-thirds of the liquid assets in its National Wealth Fund; and due to international sanctions, Russia has lost an estimated $450 billion USD in energy revenues. These figures reveal a government that clearly prioritises war over the welfare of its own citizens. The Kremlin’s choices are impoverishing Russia. We stand ready to ratchet up the pressure on President Putin with new sanctions if our calls for a ceasefire are not answered now.

    The UK stands by its economic and military support to Ukraine – a sovereign nation defending itself against an unprovoked attack. We would remind Russia, that alongside the billions already committed in aid and military assistance, the UK is also investing in Ukraine’s long-term recovery and reconstruction through non-military support. It is estimated that Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction will require $524 billion USD over the next decade. It represents the cost of rebuilding homes, schools, hospitals, and infrastructure destroyed by Russian aggression. It is a moral and strategic investment in the future of a free and democratic Ukraine.

    The United Kingdom condemns Russia’s illegal invasion in the strongest possible terms. We will continue to stand with Ukraine – militarily, economically, and diplomatically -until peace is achieved, and Ukraine’s sovereignty is safeguarded. Russia’s invasion is a flagrant violation of international law, of the United Nations Charter and the principles enshrined in the 1975 Helsinki Final Act, to which Russia is a signatory. These principles include the sovereign equality of states, the inviolability of frontiers, and the prohibition of the threat or use of force. Russia’s actions have shattered the foundations of European security. Thank you, Madam Chair.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 May 2025

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Russia’s continued contravention of OSCE principles: UK Statement to the OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Russia’s continued contravention of OSCE principles: UK Statement to the OSCE

    UK Counsellor, Ankur Narayan, says that in line with the OSCE Code of Conduct, the UK will continue to support Ukraine towards achieving a just and lasting peace, while continuing to urge Russia to return to full compliance – including withdrawing to within its own internationally recognised borders.

    Thank you, Madam Chair, for hosting this FSC Security Dialogue on the Code of Conduct on Politico-Military Aspects of Security. Thank you also to the distinguished speakers for their interventions.

    My statement today will focus on the purpose of the Code, which democratic control is designed to ensure implementation of. Namely, the commitment of States to abide by the Helsinki Final Act and to respond when these principles are breached in the OSCE region.

    As per paragraph 1 of the Code, the “implementation in good faith of all commitments” are of “fundamental importance for stability and security”, and “consequently constitute a matter of direct and legitimate concern to all of them”. As we know, the Code spells these commitments out. Commitments such as “respect for each other’s sovereign equality and individuality”. Such as “the right freely to choose its own security arrangements … to belong or not to belong to … treaties of alliance”.

    The Code explicitly states: “No participating State will attempt to impose military domination over any other participating State”. This includes not stationing armed forces in the territories of other States without a freely negotiated agreement … in accordance with international law.

    Madam Chair, as detailed at the weekly FSC, Russia remains in breach of multiple commitments in the OSCE’s Zone of Application. Namely in Moldova, in Georgia and in Ukraine.

    The Code is clear about what States must do in response: “In the event of armed conflict, they will seek to facilitate the effective cessation of hostilities and seek to create conditions favourable to the political solution of the conflict.” It adds that States are determined to “act in solidarity if CSCE norms and commitments are violated” and to “facilitate concerted responses”. It provides that States will: “consult promptly … with a participating State seeking assistance in realizing its individual or collective self-defence”. It also provides that States will “consider jointly the nature of the threat and actions that may be required in defence of their common values.”

    In line with Code, we support Ukraine to defend itself, in line with the UN Charter and Helsinki Final Act principles. In line with the Code, we commend Ukraine’s steadfast commitment to reaching a just and lasting peace. And in line with the Code, we keep on calling on Russia to withdraw fully and unconditionally, from the whole territory of Ukraine, to inside its internationally recognised borders. And to return to the path of peace, starting with an immediate, unconditional ceasefire.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 May 2025

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: River Gade returns to its natural course through Gadebridge Park

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    River Gade returns to its natural course through Gadebridge Park

    Works also include two new footbridges, a flood warning gauging station, and an innovative ultrasonic structure that allows fish and mammals to move freely.

    The moment the River Gade was diverted into the new channel.

    The River Gade has returned to its natural course in Gadebridge Park, following an ambitious river restoration project delivered by the Environment Agency, in collaboration with Affinity Water, Dacorum Borough Council and contractors BAM Nuttall.

    The project has reconnected the chalk stream to its natural floodplain, improving wildlife habitats, reducing the risk of localised flooding downstream of the white bridge in Gadebridge Park.

    Historically, the River Gade was diverted from its natural course to supply water to the former Bury Mill. This artificial channel, perched on the edge of the park, caused the river to become disconnected from the surrounding landscape, leading to reduced flow, water quality issues, and limited biodiversity.

    The restoration involved creating a new river channel through the centre of the park, bringing the Gade back to its natural position in the valley bottom. The works included the installation of two new footbridges, a gauging station to support the flood warning system, and an innovative ultrasonic structure that allows fish and mammals to move freely while also redirecting spring flows vital for chalk stream ecology.

    As a rare chalk stream, of which 85% globally are found in England, the River Gade is a valuable habitat. Chalk streams are known for their clear, mineral-rich water and stable temperatures, providing an ideal habitat for species such as water voles and brown trout.n Gadebridge Park is one of Hemel Hempstead’s largest and most popular green spaces, offering something for everyone. Alongside the newly restored river, the park features expansive open grass areas, a skate park, a play area and splash park for children and a walled garden with a rich history and impressive formal planting displays.

    Chris Wilson, area director at the Environment Agency, said:

    Getting to this stage marks the huge collective effort of a large number of people, not just at the Environment Agency, but from our partners, Dacorum Borough Council and Affinity Water, our contractors, JBA, BAM Nuttall and Arcadis and many, many others besides.

    I’d like to thank everyone involved for their perseverance and commitment to bringing such a complex and ambitious project to completion.

    Councillor Robin Bromham, portfolio holder for neighbourhood operations at Dacorum Borough Council, added:

    This is a landmark moment for Gadebridge Park and for our local environment. The return of the River Gade to its natural course not only restores an important ecosystem but also enhances the park experience for our residents and visitors. We’re proud to have worked with our partners to deliver this project that benefits both people and nature.

    To find out more about the project, visit https://consult.environment-agency.gov.uk/hnl/gadebridge-park-information-page/ or here Restoring Nature in Gadebridge Park: Chalk River Project and Community Access Features

    Background:

    The Environment Agency and Affinity Water funded the river restoration project and Dacorum Borough Council contributed to its recreational and amenity aspects for the park.

    A new channel was dug through the centre of the park and the project provided two new footbridges for the park.

    Extra gravel added to the channel to help shape the river and restore natural processes typical of a chalk stream. This includes riffles – shallower areas of the river where faster-flowing water pass over gravels and cobbles on the riverbed, adding oxygen to the water – and replicating natural ‘gravel bars’, which are deposits of gravel where the river’s energy is lower, creating varied water depths for river plants and animals to thrive.

    By creating vegetated margins along the banks of the new channel, we’ll provide important habitat for many species – for example, a habitat and a source of food for aquatic insects at different life stages, refuge from predators for juvenile trout and water vole, and even a migration corridor for otter. As well as providing habitat, vegetated margins also play an important role in filtering sediment and reducing nutrients entering the watercourse, helping to improve water quality. They can also slow flood flows and help to reduce erosion of the banks.

    The project is important for a number of reasons –

    Only 17% of chalk streams are in their natural state. Like many chalk streams, the River Gade faces pressure from low flows and historic modifications to its channel that limit the river’s habitats and the wildlife it can support.

    The artificial channel is much wider and straighter than a natural chalk stream would typically be. This often leads to a build-up of sediment along the bank and associated excessive vegetation growth, which gradually narrows the channel. The river had little resilience to drought conditions due to low volumes of flow, especially in late summer and early autumn.

    Most water we drink in the South East comes from rainwater stored deep beneath our feet in natural chalk ‘aquifers.’ These also feed our chalk streams. In 2018, Affinity Water reduced net abstraction in the Gade catchment by 2,342,400 m3/year – that’s an average of 6.4 million litres a day. However, demand for water in the South East remains high. We all need to reduce the amount of water we use – every drop wasted is water that could be sustaining our rivers, streams and lakes.

    Re-routing spring flows – which are currently diverted through a culvert, or underground tunnel, and discharged into a fishing lake at Kings Langley 5km downstream – into the new realigned channel. This will provide additional flow to the river, increasing its resilience to low flows, improve the river’s water quality and help to restore natural characteristics of a chalk stream such as a more alkaline PH and a stable temperature all year round.

    Because of their rarity and value, chalk streams in England have been designated a priority habitat, detailed within the qualifying criteria of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) Priority Habitat Descriptions for Rivers. However, all chalk streams in England, including the River Gade, face vast challenges and pressures from decades of mismanagement.

    Contact us:

    Journalists only – 0800 141 2743 or communications_se@environment-agency.gov.uk.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Part-time Sheriff removed from office

    Source: Scottish Government

    Tribunal found John Halley ‘unfit for judicial office’.

    Part-time Sheriff John Halley has been removed from office after an independent tribunal report found that his misbehaviour renders him unfit for judicial office.

    The tribunal reported to the First Minister that part-time Sheriff Halley’s conduct was improper and not consistent with the dignity of judicial office. Given the gravity of the tribunal’s findings, the First Minister accepted there are compelling reasons to remove part-time Sheriff Halley and has taken that decision.

    Background

    In November 2019, following a request from the Lord President, the then First Minister constituted a Tribunal under Section 21 of the Courts Reform (Scotland) Act 2014 to investigate and report on whether part-time Sheriff Halley was unfit to hold the judicial office by reason of misbehaviour.

    If a tribunal reports to the First Minister that a judicial office holder is unfit to hold office by reason of inability, neglect or misbehaviour, the First Minister may remove them from office. The First Minister has decided to remove Mr Halley from the office of part-time Sheriff with effect from 28 May 2025.

    The independent tribunal report into the fitness for judicial office of part-time Sheriff John Halley has been laid in Parliament by the First Minister, as required by the Courts Reform (Scotland) Act 2014.

    Part-time sheriffs may sit in any of the sheriff courts in Scotland, except that a solicitor who is appointed may not sit in the court district containing their main place of business.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Anti-social tenant evicted by Court warrant

    Source: City of York

    Following a ruling by a District Judge, a council tenant was evicted on Thursday 22 May, after drug-related activities and anti-social behaviour caused misery for her neighbours.

    The council was granted a possession order by York County Court to end the tenancy of Nikkita Richardson, aged 29, of Pottery Lane, York. 

    This follows reports from local residents to the Council and North Yorkshire Police about drug-taking and dealing and anti-social visitors. This led to concerns about this address being used to transport illegal drugs from one area to another – known as County Lines activities.

    The anti-social behaviour in the home and area, including loud noise and arguments at the house, disrupted and concerned local people who worried about its impact on their families.

    Following work with residents and North Yorkshire Police, City of York Council served a legal warning of eviction on Ms Richardson, which she breached on numerous occasions. The Council then applied to York County Court for authority to evict its tenant and regain possession of the property.

    After considering evidence, the District Judge granted the Council permission to evict which was done in conjunction with North Yorkshire Police officers.

    Ms Richardson was advised where she could get information on her housing options, should she need it.

    Councillor Michael Pavlovic, Executive member for Housing and Safer Communities, said: 

    Local residents’ co-operation in reporting and working with our Community Safety Hub has played a significant part in tackling this unacceptable activity in our communities. 

    “Please tell us your concerns and, as this outcome shows, we can work with you and take action.”

    Chief Inspector Ryan Chapman, Operational Commander for Neighbourhood Policing in York and Selby, said:

    County Lines drug dealing is a blight on our communities and causes a great deal of harm.

    “Together with key partners including City of York Council, we are more determined than ever to clamp down on the criminal activity and the associated anti-social behaviour.

    “We hope this latest eviction is welcomed by residents and shows that we will take all necessary action to make our neighbourhoods as safe and secure as possible.

    “There will be no let-up and we will continue to act on information provided by residents and businesses, either directly to the police or council or provided anonymously to Crimestoppers.”

    Sergeant Charlotte Gregory from North Yorkshire Police, said: 

    This address has been subject of joint work and investigations with North Yorkshire Police and City of York Council in the Community Safety Hub since August 2024 due to anti-social behaviour and drug-related concerns. The address has been a focus under Operation Titan, the York and Selby Command’s response to County Lines.

    “The support from the Court in granting the Council possession of the property shows we are continuing to respond jointly to reports and information we get in a robust manner, through various approaches.”

    Reporting information about drug-related crime

    Anyone with any information about suspected drug-related crime are urged to make a report via the North Yorkshire Police website or by calling 101 and speaking to the Force Control Room.

    Always dial 999 if an emergency response is required.

    If you would prefer to remain anonymous, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or make a report online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

    The signs of drug dealing can include:

    • Increased callers at a property at all times of the day or night
    • Increase in cars pulling up for short periods of time
    • Different accents at a property
    • Anti-social behaviour at a property
    • Not seeing the resident for long periods of time
    • Drug-related rubbish – small plastic bags, syringes
    • Windows covered or curtains closed for long periods

    Get professional support for drug and alcohol-related issues

    Report anti-social behaviour:

    at www.york.gov.uk/AntisocialBehaviour, call 01904 551555 or email: neo@york.gov.uk.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Thousands of youngsters take part in Aberdeen Big Sing 2025

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    An impressive 3,000 Primary Four pupils from across the city came together to sing as one big choir at the Aberdeen Big Sing 2025 spectacular in the Duthie Park today (Wednesday 28 May). 

    Now in its third year, Aberdeen Big Sing is a celebration event which offers children aged 8-10-years-old the opportunity to enjoy the feel good factor that music and song can offer, a positive shared experience, and the chance to make new friendships.   

    Councillor Martin Greig, Convener of Aberdeen City Council’s Education and Children’s Services Committee, said: “The music and song from the young people was wonderful. It was lovely to hear the children from our twin city of Clermont-Ferrand taking part in this year’s Big Sing.  My thanks go to everyone involved who helped make this such an enjoyable event. This was a great opportunity to link up in advance of the Tall Ships which will travel from France to Aberdeen in July.”

    Councillor Jessica Mennie, vice-convener of the Education and Children’s Services Committee, said: “Aberdeen Big Sing 2025 was wonderful. It was clear from the fabulous performances by all the Primary Four pupils that they and the Aberdeen City Music Service vocal team have put in a lot of effort and enthusiasm to produce such a great event.”

    The children had been taught the songs by Aberdeen City Council’s Music Service specialist vocal team. Members of the team have been visiting schools since August 2024 with their time funded through Creative Scotland’s Youth Music Initiative.

    Morag Macdonald, Youth Music Initiative Manager at Creative Scotland said: “Aberdeen Big Sing 2025 is a truly fantastic celebration of creativity, community, and the joy of making music with peers. It’s wonderful to see so many young people coming together through song, building confidence and connection along the way. Through the Youth Music Initiative, we’re proud to support the dedicated vocal team at Aberdeen City Music Service who make events like this possible. Congratulations to all the pupils, teachers and organisers for delivering such an inspiring day.”

    The pupils performed eight songs mostly themed around the sea to coincide with the city hosting The Tall Ships Race 2025 (19 July-21 July).  Songs included A Sea Journey, My Bonnie Lies Over the Ocean, and Colour is a Beautiful Thing.

    The young singers were accompanied by the Big Sing Band which is made up of Aberdeen City Music Service and Robert Gordon College pupils, Charleston School and Ashley Road School Woodwind Ensembles, and the Robert Gordon College Pipe Band.

    Primary Four pupils from five schools in Clermont-Ferrand in France, which is twinned with Aberdeen, participated in the annual event for the first time.  The pupils from Ecole de Fournols; Ecole de Saint Georges sur Allier; Ecole élémentaire d’Aydat; Centre élémentaire d’Issoire and Ecole élémentaire Pierre Mendès France had taken part in various singing activities including a ‘live’ lesson and created recordings of their singing, which were broadcast at the event.

    Primary Four pupils at Muirfield School commented afterwards on how much they enjoyed being part of Aberdeen Big Sing 2025.  One pupil said: “I liked it. It was fun, my favourite song was “Thank You For The Music.”

    Another pupil added:  “It was scary and exciting being around so many other Primary Fours. I’m Still Standing was fun and I liked dancing to it.”

    An estimated 2,500 family members and friends of the young singers attended the event. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Hungarian media project wins European Charlemagne Youth Prize

    Source: European Union 2

    A Hungarian platform on European identity, a Czech project encouraging young people’s vote and a German legal support for discriminated people were recognised in 2025.

    On Tuesday, the European Parliament and the Foundation of the International Charlemagne Prize of Aachen awarded the 2025 European Charlemagne Youth Prize in a ceremony in Aachen.

    First prize – “Forum Europaeum”, Hungary

    The first prize (€7500) went to Forum Europaeum, a pan-European think tank and media outlet which promotes European identity, values, and unity through articles, podcasts, TikTok videos, and interviews. The project’s goal is to explore European identity and societal challenges, through creating spaces for constructive debates on topics relevant to young people.

    Second prize – “Thanks That We Can Vote”, Czech Republic

    The second prize (€5000) was awarded to the Díky, že můžem volit (Thanks That We Can Vote) initiative. Launched to address the low electoral participation of young people in the Czech Republic, it targeted 18-29-old voters during the 2024 European Elections. The project sought to combat apathy, perceived political inefficacy, and fragmented engagement efforts through education, collaboration, and innovative outreach efforts.

    Third prize – Feminist Law Clinic, Germany

    The Feminist Law Clinic, a project providing free legal support, won the third prize (€2500). It deals helps those most affected by gender-based discrimination sexualised violence, and legal uncertainty—particularly women, lesbians, intersex, non-binary, trans, agender, and queer individuals.

    Background

    The European Charlemagne Youth Prize, jointly awarded by the European Parliament and the Foundation of the International Charlemagne Prize of Aachen, is open to initiatives by young people aged 16-30 involved in projects that strengthen democracy and support active participation. Since 2008, 6,500 projects have competed for the prize.

    Every year, national and European juries select a project from each EU member state. 27 national winners were invited to the award ceremony in Aachen on 27 May 2025, where the three overall EU winners were announced.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Kalle Virtanen appointed Oma Savings Bank’s Chief Operating Officer and member of the management team

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OMA SAVINGS BANK PLC, STOCK EXCHANGE RELEASE 28 MAY 2025 AT 17.00 PM CHANGES IN BOARD/MANAGEMENT/AUDITORS


    Kalle Virtanen appointed Oma Savings Bank’s Chief Operating Officer and member of the management team

    Oma Savings Bank Plc (OmaSp or the company) has appointed Kalle Virtanen (L.LM, trained on the Bench, L.LM (Stockholm) and CEFA) Chief Operating Officer (COO) and member of the management team. Virtanen will start in his position on 1 August 2025.

    Chief Operating Officer (COO) is a new role within OmaSp and the unit lead by Virtanen will be responsible for OmaSp’s retail and corporate banking support functions such as back-office and financial crime prevention. Kalle Virtanen focuses particularly on enhancing the bank’s operational efficiency and, through that, improving the customer experience.

    Virtanen has over 25 years of experience in banking and finance, and he has held several expert and business leadership roles in the sector. Virtanen has most recently worked as EY’s Financial Services Law practice lead in Finland and before that in Nordea.

    ”Our transformation journey continues. We have significantly strengthened our resources in regulatory compliance, risk management, and back-office functions — all critical areas in banking — and have recruited new professionals for key roles. We are very pleased to welcome an experienced and capable leader like Kalle to our team to help further develop OmaSp operations. Kalle’s strong leadership and expertise are exactly what we need at this stage,” says Karri Alameri, OmaSp CEO.

    “OmaSp is a well-capitalized bank, its staff is active, and OmaSp has a nationwide network for meeting and serving customers. I look forward to the upcoming tasks and collaboration with new colleagues and stakeholders with interest and enthusiasm,” says Kalle Virtanen.

    The appointment is subject to the Finnish Financial Supervisory Authority’s approval of the fit and proper assessment concerning Virtanen.

    Oma Savings Bank Plc

    Additional information:
    Karri Alameri, CEO, tel. +358 45 656 5250, karri.alameri@omasp.fi


    Distribution:

    Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
    Major media
    www.omasp.fi

    OmaSp is a solvent and profitable Finnish bank. About 600 professionals provide nationwide services through OmaSp’s 48 branch offices and digital service channels to over 200,000 private and corporate customers. OmaSp focuses primarily on retail banking operations and provides its clients with a broad range of banking services both through its own balance sheet as well as by acting as an intermediary for its partners’ products. The intermediated products include credit, investment and loan insurance products. OmaSp is also engaged in mortgage banking operations.

    OmaSp core idea is to provide personal service and to be local and close to its customers, both in digital and traditional channels. OmaSp strives to offer premium level customer experience through personal service and easy accessibility. In addition, the development of the operations and services is customer-oriented. The personnel is committed and OmaSp seeks to support their career development with versatile tasks and continuous development. A substantial part of the personnel also own shares in OmaSp.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Chair of the NATO Military Committee attends the 18th Balkan Countries Chief of Defence Conference in Istanbul

    Source: NATO

    The Chair of the NATO Military Committee (CMC), attended the 18th Balkan Countries CHODs Conference in İstanbul. Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone’s first appearance at this forum marks also his first visit to Türkiye.

    The conference, hosted at the Multinational Joint Warfare Centre (MJWC) by the Chief of Turkish General Staff General Metin Gürak, included discussions on ways to strengthen peace, security, and military cooperation. It gathered the CHODs, high level authorities and senior military officials from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Türkiye, Croatia, and Slovenia. Participants were addressed by the Vice President of Türkiye, Cevdet Yılmaz.

    In his intervention, the Chair of the NATO Military Committee emphasised the strategic importance of the Balkans and stated: “This region continues to be among NATO’s top priorities.” He also highlighted the benefits and need for continued military cooperation between Balkan countries, stressing that “dialogue on doctrine, tactics, and even procurement pathways can help avoid duplication and foster interoperability.”

    This year’s conference focused on “The Vision for Use of Uncrewed Systems in the Future Operating Environment” and was an opportunity to exchange views on strengthening military cooperation as well as opportunities and challenges related to uncrewed systems. The program addressed the development of autonomous technologies, artificial intelligence-supported decision-making mechanisms, human-machine cooperation on the battlefield, and the technological, strategic, and ethical aspects of uncrewed systems.

    Over the course of the conference Admiral Cavo Dragone also held several bilateral meetings to discuss current security challenges, preparations to NATO Summit and the upcoming Military Committee Conference.

    Since its creation in 2007, the Balkan Countries CHODs Conference has been an important regional military forum where the promotion of cooperation, stability, and confidence among the Balkan countries has been paramount. It has confirmed the commitment of all members to provide timely and efficient responses to diverse security challenges and threats in the region.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: SFO charges global aircraft parts supplier with fraud offence

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    SFO charges global aircraft parts supplier with fraud offence

    Jose Alejandro Zamora Yrala is charged with fraudulent trading as part of an SFO investigation into a company that sold parts for aircraft engines.

    The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has today charged Jose Alejandro Zamora Yrala with fraudulent trading as part of its investigation into a company that sold airline parts for the passenger and cargo aircraft engines, the CF56 and CF6. 

    Zamora Yrala, the company director, is accused of operating UK-based AOG Technics for a fraudulent purpose. The company’s customers included airlines, maintenance providers and parts suppliers. 

    From 2019 to 2023 the company allegedly defrauded customers by falsifying documentation that related to the origin, status or condition of aircraft parts. 

    Planes in the UK and elsewhere around the world were grounded in 2023 after the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority, the United States’ Federal Aviation Administration, and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency issued safety alerts to airlines that may have bought or installed AOG’s parts. 

    Soon after, the SFO launched an investigation, later agreeing to conduct a joint investigation with Portuguese authorities into the supply of suspected fraudulent safety certification and parts. The Portuguese investigation is ongoing and last week authorities searched ten locations across Portugal and made three arrests with SFO officers in attendance.  

    Zamora Yrala will appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on Monday 2 June 2025. 

    Nick Ephgrave QPM, Director of the Serious Fraud Office (SFO), said: 

    Planes were grounded, and significant disruption was caused, today’s charges are the outcome of a focussed and fast paced investigation.

    I’m proud that we’ve acted swiftly, together with our Europeans partners, to bring this important case to charge in just 19 months.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Blue badge parking during York Pride

    Source: City of York

    Published Wednesday, 28 May 2025

    There will be some brief changes to blue badge parking in York on Saturday 7 June to allow the Pride parade to pass safely through the city centre.

    Road closures

    Church Street will be closed to all traffic from 10.30am until around 1.30pm.  St Helen’s Square will be closed from 11.30am until around 1.30pm.

    Blue badge parking suspension

    Parking on St Helen’s Square will be suspended from 10.30am until around 1.30pm. This means that blue badge holders will still be able to get through to either park in Lendal or exit onto Museum Street until 11.30am.

    Parking available during the parade

    Limited spaces will be available on the double yellow lines in King’s Square. Access for blue badge holders only will be via Goodramgate into Kings Square, vehicles will be able to exit via Colliergate.
    Badge holders will be able to park their cars on Blake Street (between McDonald’s and St Helen’s Square) until 11.30am but will not be able to move their vehicles again until the parade has passed through the area.

    Limited spaces are also available on Lendal (outside the old Post Office)
     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Urgent warning about the safe disposal of batteries and disposable BBQs after Leeds bin wagon fires

    Source: City of Leeds

    Three concerning near-misses with bin wagons in the last week

    Leeds residents are being reminded about the dangers of binning batteries and hot ash from barbeques after three separate incidents in refuse collection vehicles in the last week.

    Waste crews were carrying out collections in Burmantofts, Armley and Middleton when smoke started emerging from the back of their wagons. In each case, thanks to the quick actions of the crews, the fire service was promptly called and advised tipping the smouldering waste on to the road to enable it to be safely extinguished.

    Evidence in each case appeared to show the fires were caused by either disposable barbeques or batteries from vapes or other discarded devices. Fortunately, on these occasions the crews were unhurt, and the bin wagons, roads and local properties were not damaged. The mess created in each location was cleared as soon as could be safely arranged, but not without the time and cost involved and some inconvenience to local residents and road users.

    As a result of these incidents, all residents are being reminded the best way to get rid of disposable barbeques is to let them completely cool down until at least the next day after use and to soak them in water before wrapping them in foil and disposing of them in a black wheelie bin.

    Loose batteries or devices like vapes that contain lithium-ion batteries can be safely recycled at the place they were purchased from, most supermarkets or any local household waste recycling centre in Leeds.

    Leeds City Council executive member for climate, energy, environment and green space, Councillor Mohammed Rafique said:

    “We’d like to thank all of the crews in these incidents for their quick-thinking and attentiveness as well as West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service for their guidance on how to handle these situations to avoid serious issues developing.

    “Fires in bin wagons or at recycling centres can be started from the smallest spark or heat source. This results in danger to our crews and staff, damaged vehicles and inconvenience for residents. We appeal to everyone to please dispose of your rubbish responsibly, taking extra care that disposable barbecues are fully cooled down and that hidden batteries in things like vapes are recycled in an appropriate battery bin. Taking the time to be vigilant helps to keep everyone safe.”

    Note for editors:
    To safely get rid of used E-cigarettes and disposable vapes, these should be taken back to the shops they were bought from and deposited in their vape bins.

    Alternatively, find an electrical recycling point at https://www.recycleyourelectricals.org.uk/ or deposit them in the special vape bins at one of the eight local household waste recycling centres across Leeds which can be found at Where to take your waste and recycling | Leeds.gov.uk

    A Material Focus local authorities survey in the UK estimated that over 1,200 fires were caused by crushed or damaged batteries in waste streams in 2023, an increase of 71 per cent from the year before.

    ENDS

    For media enquiries please contact:

    Leeds City Council communications and marketing,

    Email: communicationsteam@leeds.gov.uk

    Tel: 0113 378 6007

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: A660: Next stage of improvements to begin from Monday 2 June

    Source: City of Leeds

    Leeds City Council is to begin the latest stage of its £10.4m improvement works along the A660, improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists and helping speed up bus journeys between Headingley and the city centre.

    Starting from Monday 2 June, works will begin to deliver a segregated inbound and outbound cycle track on both sides of the road, change pedestrian crossings outside the Arndale Centre and The Original Oak to toucan crossings, along with a major upgrade of both  the junctions of Hyde Park Corner and North Lane.

    Other improvements include introducing a 20mph speed limit between Shaw Lane and St. Michael’s Road, wider pavements and continuous crossings at most junctions, upgrading bus stops and shelters, and providing better access to public transport outside the Arndale Centre.

    From Monday 16 June, the junction of St. Michael’s Road and the A660 will be permanently closed to motor vehicles, with the area being transformed into a public space following a public consultation which saw 57% of responses backing this particular proposal.

    The junction of the A660 with Regent Park Avenue will also be closed to motor vehicles from 30 July, and the existing left turn road closure from Woodhouse Street to A660 Woodhouse Lane will also be made permanent, with greenery and space for outdoor dining.

    The improvements are funded by a £10.4m grant from Active Travel England, with this phase of work being delivered by construction partners Hinko Construction.

    The works aim to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists along a route which saw 172 casualties between 2016 and 2021, encouraging people to choose more active and sustainable methods of travel which can boost health and wellbeing and help tackle climate change. They follow previous phases which were completed earlier this year, with 63% of respondents supporting the overall proposals during public consultation.

    Deputy Leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, Councillor Jonathan Pryor, said:

    “The A660 is one of our city’s busiest routes with thousands of people walking between north Leeds and the city centre every day, along with more than 1,000 cyclists daily and a high number of cars and buses.

    “It’s important that we make these improvements so it’s safer for everyone using it, helping to meet our Vision Zero strategy goal of eliminating road deaths and serious injuries on Leeds’ roads by 2040.

    “As with any scheme of this nature there is likely to be some disruption during construction, but we will work to keep this to a minimum, so we are encouraging people to plan ahead when travelling along this route.”

    The works are expected to be completed by summer 2026, with several measures being put in place to minimise disruption wherever possible.

    The majority of works will be carried out between 9.30am and 3.30pm on weekdays. In some instances, to ensure safety lanes will be narrowed where traffic will continue to flow in both directions.

    In some instances, temporary traffic lights will be required which will take the road down to a single lane, and there will also be some temporary road closures in place. This is likely to lead to delays.

    Bus routes will not be affected but there will be some temporary bus stops in place.

    More details about the works can be found at the scheme’s dedicated website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Is Vladimir Putin’s indiscriminate bombing of Ukrainian civilians ‘crazy’? It’s more a sign of impatience

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Mark Edele, Hansen Professor in History and Deputy Dean, The University of Melbourne

    United States President Donald Trump was “not happy” with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, this week.

    For three consecutive nights, from Friday to Sunday, Russia launched about 900 drones and scores of missiles at Ukraine. At least 18 people were killed, including three children.

    “We’re in the middle of talking and he’s shooting rockets into Kyiv and other cities,” Trump told reporters on Sunday, after Putin ordered the largest air assault on Ukraine’s civilians in its three-year war.

    Following up on his remarks, Trump posted on social media that Putin had “gone absolutely CRAZY!”

    Putin is not crazy. He is a tactician with a long-term goal: to make Russia a great power again and secure his place in the history books as the re-builder of Russia’s imperial might.

    Trump announced after a phone call with Putin on May 19 that Russia and Ukraine would “immediately start negotiations” towards a ceasefire.

    With his latest air campaign on Ukraine, however, Putin is threatening to destroy the goodwill he’s built up in Washington, where Trump has been consistently soft on Russia and tough on his allies.

    So, what is Putin’s strategy? Why is he launching these massive air bombardments on Ukrainian civilians now?

    Putin sees weakness in the West

    One theory is these attacks are somehow preparations for a major offensive. That makes little sense.

    Attacking military facilities, weapons depots or even frontline troops are useful preparations for an impending attack. Indiscriminate bombing of civilians, meanwhile, is a sign of either desperation or impatience.

    Britain and the US bombed German cities during the second world war because they had no alternatives until they built up enough capacity to transport land forces across the sea to invade the continent.

    The US also sent bombers to Japan in the final stages of the war because the American public became tired of seeing their sons, husbands, brothers and fathers die on Pacific islands they had never heard of. The war had dragged on forever by this point, and there seemed no end in sight.

    Is Putin desperate or impatient? Likely the latter.

    From the perspective of the Kremlin, Russia’s strategic situation is as good as it has been for years.

    The US is trying to destroy itself through trade wars and boorish diplomacy. Trump clearly dislikes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and hopes the war will somehow end if he just demands it.

    Europe is continuing to back Ukraine. However, for the time being, it still needs US support because its entire security structure is built around NATO and US strength, both economic and military.

    What Putin sees when he surveys the international scene is weakness. In his thinking, such weakness needs to be exploited – now is the time to hurt Ukraine as much as possible, and hope it will crack. Analysts call this a “cognitive warfare effort”.

    Indiscriminate air war on civilians is the only means Putin currently has to pressure Ukraine. His army has been advancing, but painfully slowly. There is no breakthrough in sight, even once the spring muds dry and the summer fighting season starts in earnest.

    Russia has gradually advanced in Ukraine throughout 2024, but with no perceivable change in the overall situation. Putin does not command precision weapons or super spies, which he could use to take out Ukraine’s leadership.

    All he can do is rain death on women, children and the elderly from relatively cheap, unsophisticated weapons, such as drones. He now has these in large supply, thanks to ramping up military production at home.

    Bombing campaigns do not end wars

    A strategic air war on civilians seldom works, however.

    Japan’s surrender in 1945 is an exception, but it is misleading in many ways. The Americans had flattened Japan’s cities for a while already, just not using their new atomic weapons. Japan had already lost the war and the real question was if there would be a bloody US invasion or surrender.

    And as the US dropped its two nuclear bombs in August of that year, the Red Army joined the fight, racing across Manchuria to help occupy Japanese territories.

    In Germany, the British-American bombings from 1942 onwards certainly had an effect on war production, as they killed workers and destroyed factories. But they did not incapacitate the German army and certainly did not break morale.

    Instead, the bombings led to embitterment and a closing of ranks around the regime. German society fought to the last moment. It did so not just despite, but because of the air war. The German army was eventually defeated by the ground troops of the Red Army, who took Berlin in an incredibly bloody fight.

    Other historical failures are even more spectacular. The US air force dropped 864,000 tons of bombs on North Vietnam during an air campaign of more than 300,000 sorties lasting from 1965 to late 1968. The North Vietnamese lost maybe 29,000 people (dead and wounded), more than half of them civilians. The Americans and their South Vietnamese allies still lost the war.

    Putin’s air war will likely follow the historical pattern: it has further embittered the Ukrainians, who know very well that what comes from the east is not liberation.

    Another summer of fighting lies ahead. Ukraine’s friends in the democratic world need to urgently redouble their efforts to support Ukraine. The misguided hopes that Putin would somehow “make a deal” lie under the rubble his drones leave behind in Ukraine’s cities.

    Mark Edele receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. Is Vladimir Putin’s indiscriminate bombing of Ukrainian civilians ‘crazy’? It’s more a sign of impatience – https://theconversation.com/is-vladimir-putins-indiscriminate-bombing-of-ukrainian-civilians-crazy-its-more-a-sign-of-impatience-257630

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI China: Former President Tsai visits UK Parliament and delivers speech at LSE, deepening bilateral ties

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    May 20, 2025  

    No. 165  

    Former President Tsai Ing-wen visited Europe from May 10 to 19, traveling to Lithuania and Denmark before continuing to the United Kingdom. On May 15, the first day of her stay in the United Kingdom, she visited the UK Parliament at the invitation of British-Taiwanese All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) Cochairs Sarah Champion MP and Lord Rogan. She was warmly welcomed by parliamentarians from across the political spectrum. 

     

    The former president met with House of Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle and took part in a reception at the House of Lords, where she delivered a speech. She exchanged greetings with nearly 50 parliamentarians and staff, including former Lord Speaker Baroness D’Souza, House of Lords Deputy Speaker Baroness Finlay, Trade Envoy to Taiwan Lord Faulkner, Labour Friends of Taiwan Chair Navendu Mishra MP, former Conservative Party leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith MP, Conservative Shadow Minister for Innovation and Technology Ben Spencer MP, and Liberal Democrat Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Calum Miller MP.

     

    In her address at the House of Lords, former President Tsai said that the growing threat of antidemocratic forces was testing democracy around the world, adding that this demonstrated the need for Taiwan and the United Kingdom to work together in defense of freedom and democracy. She commended the House of Commons for passing a motion last November clarifying that United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 made no reference to Taiwan. This was important in countering reckless behavior in the Taiwan Strait, she explained. Highlighting Taiwan’s position on the front line of defending democracy, former President Tsai said that Taiwan was a critical deterrent to China’s expansionist ambitions and would continue to contribute to protecting democratic values.

     

    APPG Cochair Champion noted that Taiwan and the United Kingdom had a deep friendship and shared core values. She said that the United Kingdom should continue to pay attention to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, which she added were essential to global security and prosperity. Cochair Champion noted that in recent years the Taiwan-UK partnership had deepened. She expressed hope that cooperation would expand in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, economic resilience, and other areas.

     

    Former President Tsai also delivered a speech titled “In an Era of Shifting World Order: Taiwan as a Stabilizing Force” at her alma mater, the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). The event was moderated by incoming LSE Law School Dean Andrew Murray, who represented the university and LSE President Larry Kramer. Around 100 people, including General Counsel Elizabeth Messud, attended the speech. In her remarks, former President Tsai noted that the international community was experiencing a reassignment of security responsibilities and a rebalancing of trade relations. She said that to appropriately respond to multiple challenges such as economic fragmentation, political extremism, and military conflict, the function of multilateralism was becoming even more important. The former president emphasized that Taiwan had shown a high degree of resilience in turbulent times in the past, such as during supply chain restructuring, and had proven to be a trustworthy and competitive strategic partner. She added that Taiwan was ready to play a more proactive role in the new world order by further deepening cooperation with democratic countries and contributing to the global trade system. Her remarks were enthusiastically received by the audience. 

     

    During her visit to the United Kingdom, former President Tsai also gave an address at Cambridge University, met with faculty and students at the School of Oriental and African Studies, attended a forum hosted by the Royal United Services Institute, and met with Taiwanese people working in the United Kingdom on technology startups and in the arts.

     

    Taiwan-UK relations have witnessed significant progress in recent years. In 2023, the United Kingdom signed the Enhanced Trade Partnership arrangement with Taiwan, becoming the first European country to establish a formal economic and trade framework with Taiwan. The United Kingdom is Taiwan’s fourth-largest trading partner in Europe, third-largest source of investment, and fifth-most popular destination for Taiwanese students studying abroad. The countries collaborate closely in fields such as technological innovation, renewable energy, and societal resilience. Taiwan will further work together with the United Kingdom and other like-minded countries to advance democratic resilience and prosperity. It looks forward to the United Kingdom continuing to demonstrate its commitment to security in the Indo-Pacific region by deploying naval vessels through the Taiwan Strait and taking other concrete actions. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: OSCE seminar in Turkmenistan addresses effective communication in the digital age

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

    Headline: OSCE seminar in Turkmenistan addresses effective communication in the digital age

    Participants discuss a practical task during an OSCE-organized training seminar on the use of new technologies in interaction between state institutions and media, Ashgabat, 27 May 2025, OSCE (OSCE) Photo details

    The use of new technologies in interaction between state institutions and media was in focus of an OSCE-organized training seminar that took place on 27 and 28 May 2025 in Ashgabat.
    The training seminar targeted officials of Turkmenistan’s key state institutions who are in charge of communications work and websites of their institutions as well as journalists representing print, broadcast and online media.
    The training seminar familiarized participants with best communications practices of state institutions and aimed to contribute to enhancing their contacts with media though the use of new technologies.
    Guido Keel, Senior Advisor to the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media and Živilė Navickaitė-Babkin, strategic communication expert from Lithuania delivered the seminar focusing on core principles of effective communication and modern instruments used by state institutions in interaction with the media.
    “The OSCE commitments on freedom of information and access to information are enshrined in a number of the Organization’s key document, including the Helsinki Final Act, the fiftieth anniversary of which we celebrate this year,” said John MacGregor, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat.
    “These documents commit governments to be more transparent by providing timely and reliable information and facilitate a well-informed and responsive dialogue,” emphasized MacGregor.
    The seminar participants learnt about a corporate newsroom, its traditional organization, structure and functions, and talked about the essential role of strategic thinking in communications. The experts shared most common mistakes in interaction with the media and provided recommendations for creating user-friendly content. The event also discussed opportunities and limits of multimodal communication and how artificial intelligence changes communications.
    “Our seminar highlights the importance of providing accurate reliable information to our citizens, especially in this age of digital technologies and   artificial    intelligence,” added MacGregor.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: WSO2 Acquires Leading API Analytics and Monetization Startup Moesif

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Austin, TX , May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — WSO2, the leader in enterprise digital infrastructure technology, today announced it has acquired Moesif, a San Francisco-based startup specializing in advanced API analytics and monetization. The all-cash acquisition marks a strategic milestone in WSO2’s long-term plan to accelerate global growth through targeted inorganic opportunities.

    As part of the agreement, Moesif will operate as an independent subsidiary under WSO2’s API Management Business Unit. The Moesif brand and current product offering will be retained, and its leadership along with its team will continue to drive existing business and expand customer growth globally. Moesif customers will continue receiving the same level of service and support, while benefiting from WSO2’s global presence and expanded product offerings. Moesif’s advanced API analytics and monetization capabilities will also be integrated into WSO2’s product portfolio, bringing enhanced value to existing and future customers.

    “This acquisition is a first step in our strategy to establish WSO2 as a global technology leader through select inorganic opportunities,” said Dr. Sanjiva Weerawarana, founder and CEO of WSO2. “Moesif brings market-leading capabilities in API analytics and monetization, areas that are increasingly critical to digital businesses today. This is just the beginning—we’re committed to exploring further opportunities that align with our long-term goal to help enterprises deliver seamless, high-impact digital experiences.”

    The acquisition enhances WSO2’s positioning in the API management space by adding best-in-class analytics and monetization tools that help businesses optimize, measure, and generate revenue from their APIs. Moesif’s offerings will complement WSO2’s comprehensive API management platform, creating a synergy that benefits both customer bases.

    “Joining WSO2 is a natural next step in Moesif’s journey,” said Derric Gilling, founder and CEO of Moesif. “We share a deep commitment to empowering developers and businesses to build powerful digital experiences. As part of WSO2, we’ll continue to innovate rapidly, serve our customers with excellence, and now reach an even broader global audience.”

    WSO2 customers will start gaining access to Moesif’s capabilities as part of an enhanced product suite, while Moesif customers will benefit from WSO2’s global support infrastructure and expanded services.

    About WSO2
    Founded in 2005, WSO2 is the largest independent software vendor providing open-source API management, integration, and identity and access management (IAM) to thousands of enterprises in over 90 countries. WSO2’s products and platforms—including our next-gen internal developer platform, Choreo—empower organizations to leverage the full potential of artificial intelligence and APIs for securely delivering the next generation of AI-enabled digital services and applications. Our open-source, AI-driven, API-first approach frees developers and architects from vendor lock-in and enables rapid digital product creation. Recognized as leaders by industry analysts, WSO2 has more than 800 employees worldwide with offices in Australia, Brazil, Germany, India, Sri Lanka, the UAE, the UK, and the US, with over USD100M in annual recurring revenue. Visit https://wso2.com to learn more. Follow WSO2 on LinkedIn and X (Twitter).

    About Moesif
    Moesif is the leading AI-driven API analytics and monetization platform that helps companies build better developer experiences, monitor API usage, and drive revenue. With powerful tools for observability, governance, and product-led growth, Moesif empowers engineering and product teams to optimize APIs as a business channel. Moesif serves customers across many industries including logistics, fintech, and enterprise software including leading enterprises like UPS, Covetrus, and UK Royal Mail. Moesif was founded in 2017 and is based in San Francisco, US. Investors include Craft Ventures, Merus Capital, Heavybit, and Fresco. Visit www.moesif.com to learn more.

    Trademarks and registered trademarks are the properties of their respective owners.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Aptean Expands DACH Manufacturing ERP Footprint Through Acquisition of VLEX

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KULMBACH, Germany and ALPHARETTA, Ga., May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aptean Inc., a global front-runner of AI-driven ERP solutions, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Vlexgroup AG (“VLEX”), a leading provider of variant-manufacturing focused ERP solutions for SME customers in the DACH region headquartered in Kulmbach, Germany.

    The acquisition of VLEX further increases Aptean’s DACH footprint while also bolstering its ERP capabilities for the variant-manufacturing sector.

    For over 40 years, VLEX has provided mission-critical variant-manufacturing solutions designed to manage complex, diverse, and fast-moving challenges across the SME manufacturing sector in the DACH region. With deep industry expertise, VLEX’s talented team aligns with Aptean’s strategic focus on the SME manufacturing industry in the DACH region, further strengthening commitment to innovation and excellence.

    “VLEX has a proven track record with over four decades of experience delivering mission-critical variant-manufacturing solutions across the DACH market,” said TVN Reddy, CEO of Aptean. “VLEX’s product VlexPlus delivers state of the art software solutions specifically designed to manage the complex needs of the variant manufacturing industry and is backed by a team of seasoned industry experts. VLEX will be an important driver in our strategy to scale our DACH manufacturing capabilities. Welcoming the VLEX team and customers into the Aptean family marks a significant step forward in our shared commitment to innovation and success.”

    “We are delighted to join a global organization like Aptean, where together we can continue to develop and deliver innovative solutions to our customers. The combination of our businesses offers an exciting opportunity for VLEX’s future growth given our shared commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. Being part of Aptean presents our customers and our team with exciting opportunities for growth and development and we can’t wait to get started,” said Jens Pfeil-Schneider, Chairman Managing Director of VLEX.

    About VLEX

    For over 40 years, VLEX has been a reliable partner for digital transformation and automation in medium-sized manufacturing companies and wholesale businesses. At the heart of their offer is the cloud-enabled ERP software VlexPlus, which acts as a central data and process hub, mapping all processes in the Customer’s value chain right down to the shop floor. Developed for the complex requirements of variant and order manufacturers, the ERP software is based on one of the most modern technology and process frameworks available today. It enables consistently networked work across system and company boundaries. To learn more visit: https://www.vlexplus.com/

    About Aptean
    Aptean is a global provider of industry-specific software that helps manufacturers and distributors effectively run and grow their businesses. Aptean’s solutions and services help businesses of all sizes to be Ready for What’s Next, Now®. Aptean is headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia and has offices in North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific. To learn more about Aptean and the markets we serve, visit www.aptean.com. Aptean and Ready for What’s Next, Now are Registered Trademarks of Aptean, Inc. All other companies and product names may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated.

    For Media Inquiries Please Contact
    MediaRelations@aptean.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BTCC Exchange Launches Hot Coins Trading Week Campaign Series Ahead of 14th Anniversary Celebration

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    A Media Snippet available here.

    VILNIUS, Lithuania, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BTCC, the world’s longest-serving crypto exchange, is excited to announce the launch of its Hot Coins Trading Week campaign series, marking the beginning of pre-anniversary celebrations leading up to the platform’s 14th milestone in June. The first round of the campaign focuses on carefully selected spot and futures pairs that have gained significant traction among the exchange’s user base of over 7 million.

    The first round, which runs from May 26 to June 2, 2025, features a diverse selection of trending pairs including TRUMP, PI, and AI16Z. The campaign offers substantial rewards totaling 50,000 USDT across two prize pools, including exclusive benefits for new users and trading volume-based rewards for active participants:

    • New User Exclusive Prize Pool: First-time BTCC traders can earn 10 USDT by achieving 10,000 USDT in cumulative trading volume.
    • Trading Champions: High-volume traders compete for rewards ranging from 5 USDT to 800 USDT based on trading volume.

    “These selected pairs not only reflect current market trends, but also align with our users’ trading behavior observed over the past quarter,” said Alex, Head of Operations at BTCC. “After 14 years, we know what our community wants to trade. This campaign gives our traders straightforward spot trading on the assets they’re most excited about, with more rounds featuring different coins coming as we build up to our June anniversary.”

    The timing of this campaign series strategically positions BTCC as it approaches its 14th anniversary milestone in June. The exchange has built a reputation for longevity and stability in the volatile cryptocurrency market, making it one of the industry’s most established platforms.

    Users can participate in the current round through BTCC’s platform, with additional rounds to be announced in the coming weeks. The exchange encourages traders to stay updated on campaign developments and anniversary celebrations through BTCC’s official X account.

    About BTCC

    Founded in 2011, BTCC is one of the world’s longest-serving cryptocurrency exchanges, offering secure and user-friendly trading services to millions of users globally. With a commitment to security, innovation, and community building, BTCC continues to be a trusted platform in the evolving cryptocurrency landscape.

    Website: https://www.btcc.com/en-US

    X: https://x.com/BTCCexchange

    Contact: press@btcc.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: CBSA Makes a Major Cannabis Seizure at the Montreal Marine and Rail Service

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Montreal, Quebec, May 28, 2025 – Canada Border Services Agency

    On April 30, 2025, border services officers at Montreal’s Marine and Rail Service located 641.83 kg of suspected cannabis in a container being exported to Spain. 

    During the inspection, border services officers detected the contraband concealed in pallet bags inside cardboard boxes within the container. The cannabis, valued at over CA $4.8 million, was seized by the Canada Border Service Agency (CBSA) and turned over to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). The investigation is ongoing.

    The CBSA is committed to protecting our communities from contraband and organized crime. CBSA reiterates that although cannabis has been legalized and regulated in Canada, the import or export of cannabis in any form without a permit or exception authorized by Health Canada is a serious criminal offence, punishable by arrest and prosecution. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Former President Tsai visits UK Parliament and delivers speech at LSE, deepening bilateral ties

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    May 20, 2025  
    No. 165  

    Former President Tsai Ing-wen visited Europe from May 10 to 19, traveling to Lithuania and Denmark before continuing to the United Kingdom. On May 15, the first day of her stay in the United Kingdom, she visited the UK Parliament at the invitation of British-Taiwanese All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) Cochairs Sarah Champion MP and Lord Rogan. She was warmly welcomed by parliamentarians from across the political spectrum. 
     
    The former president met with House of Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle and took part in a reception at the House of Lords, where she delivered a speech. She exchanged greetings with nearly 50 parliamentarians and staff, including former Lord Speaker Baroness D’Souza, House of Lords Deputy Speaker Baroness Finlay, Trade Envoy to Taiwan Lord Faulkner, Labour Friends of Taiwan Chair Navendu Mishra MP, former Conservative Party leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith MP, Conservative Shadow Minister for Innovation and Technology Ben Spencer MP, and Liberal Democrat Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Calum Miller MP.
     
    In her address at the House of Lords, former President Tsai said that the growing threat of antidemocratic forces was testing democracy around the world, adding that this demonstrated the need for Taiwan and the United Kingdom to work together in defense of freedom and democracy. She commended the House of Commons for passing a motion last November clarifying that United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 made no reference to Taiwan. This was important in countering reckless behavior in the Taiwan Strait, she explained. Highlighting Taiwan’s position on the front line of defending democracy, former President Tsai said that Taiwan was a critical deterrent to China’s expansionist ambitions and would continue to contribute to protecting democratic values.
     
    APPG Cochair Champion noted that Taiwan and the United Kingdom had a deep friendship and shared core values. She said that the United Kingdom should continue to pay attention to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, which she added were essential to global security and prosperity. Cochair Champion noted that in recent years the Taiwan-UK partnership had deepened. She expressed hope that cooperation would expand in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, economic resilience, and other areas.
     
    Former President Tsai also delivered a speech titled “In an Era of Shifting World Order: Taiwan as a Stabilizing Force” at her alma mater, the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). The event was moderated by incoming LSE Law School Dean Andrew Murray, who represented the university and LSE President Larry Kramer. Around 100 people, including General Counsel Elizabeth Messud, attended the speech. In her remarks, former President Tsai noted that the international community was experiencing a reassignment of security responsibilities and a rebalancing of trade relations. She said that to appropriately respond to multiple challenges such as economic fragmentation, political extremism, and military conflict, the function of multilateralism was becoming even more important. The former president emphasized that Taiwan had shown a high degree of resilience in turbulent times in the past, such as during supply chain restructuring, and had proven to be a trustworthy and competitive strategic partner. She added that Taiwan was ready to play a more proactive role in the new world order by further deepening cooperation with democratic countries and contributing to the global trade system. Her remarks were enthusiastically received by the audience. 
     
    During her visit to the United Kingdom, former President Tsai also gave an address at Cambridge University, met with faculty and students at the School of Oriental and African Studies, attended a forum hosted by the Royal United Services Institute, and met with Taiwanese people working in the United Kingdom on technology startups and in the arts.
     
    Taiwan-UK relations have witnessed significant progress in recent years. In 2023, the United Kingdom signed the Enhanced Trade Partnership arrangement with Taiwan, becoming the first European country to establish a formal economic and trade framework with Taiwan. The United Kingdom is Taiwan’s fourth-largest trading partner in Europe, third-largest source of investment, and fifth-most popular destination for Taiwanese students studying abroad. The countries collaborate closely in fields such as technological innovation, renewable energy, and societal resilience. Taiwan will further work together with the United Kingdom and other like-minded countries to advance democratic resilience and prosperity. It looks forward to the United Kingdom continuing to demonstrate its commitment to security in the Indo-Pacific region by deploying naval vessels through the Taiwan Strait and taking other concrete actions. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Work on new base for Plymouth’s athletes gets underway

    Source: City of Plymouth

    A new home for Plymouth’s athletes is getting on track with work starting on the concrete foundation for their new pavilion.

    Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet Member for Customer Services, Sport, Leisure and HR and OD, started the big dig to mark the start of work which will see foundations laid and services run into the site.

    The preparation work is being carried out as part of a massive city investment in sports and wellbeing at the former Brickfields Sports Centre and wider site.

    Now called Foulston Park, the ambitious project has been delivered through a partnership involving Plymouth Argyle, Argyle Community Trust, Plymouth City Council, Plymouth Albion RFC and Devonport Community Leisure Limited.

    City of Plymouth Athletics Club is also a key stakeholder and as part of the extensive negotiations that enabled the redevelopment to go ahead, surrendered the lease on their old club house in return for support for a new pavilion to be built.

    The old pavilions was a wooden clubhouse on land on the other side of the car park, but their new home will be track side, with the Foulston project contractors preparing the land for foundations and utilities to run into the new building.

    The new pavilion is a steel fabricated unit and will be installed over the summer. Costing in the region of £50,000, it has been funded through grants from Plymouth City Council, the Armada Athletics Network and the club.

    Chair of the club, Paul Crutchley said: “This is a very exciting time for the club and is something we have wanted to see happen for a long time. Having the pavilions and a modernised weight and gym facility closer to the track will enable athletes and coaches to train more effectively as well as providing a focal point for the athletic community and support athlete rehabilitation.”

    Getting the pavilion installed is just part of the job. Work needs to be carried out to transform the interior, with plans for a small kitchen, a separate meeting room and small storage room – work he is hoping to persuade club volunteers to help with.

    Councillor Sue Dann said: “There are around 330 club members with aspiring athletes and a host of volunteers who give up their time to support, coach and encourage people of all ages and ability on their athletic journey.

    “They do an incredible job and are truly unsung heroes! It’s good to be able to make their life a little bit easier with the new pavilion. As a city we have committed to being a great place to grow up and grow old and access to great facilities is part of this commitment.

    “We want Foulston Park is be a place where everyone can enjoy keeping fit and well – whatever their chosen activity!”

    Mark Lovell, Chief Executive Officer at Argyle Community Trust added: “We are proud to have already supported the health and wellbeing of hundreds of people across the city since opening The Hub at Foulston Park just a couple of months ago.

    “The gym is providing best in class equipment in an inclusive environment to support fitness journeys and the range of fitness classes means there’s something for everyone.

    “The athletics track is an extremely important and popular part of this as we continue to support local athletes and position Foulston Park as a destination for creating opportunities and inspiring people of all ages and abilities through sport.”

    This is another step in the wider Foulston Park development due to finish late summer 2026. The Hub opened its doors at the end of March and offers a range of health and wellbeing opportunities, including a state-of-the-art gym, physical activity programmes, mental health support, youth and veterans’ programmes and life skills training.

    Much more than just a fitness centre, it has been designed as a friendly and welcoming space for all, whether people are looking to get fitter and healthier, connect with others or simply enjoy a safe and supportive environment. Once complete the park will also see:

    • A new permanent home for Plymouth Argyle’s Academy and Plymouth Argyle Women
    • Extensive community and sport facilities which will include:
      • New grass and all-weather 3G pitches
      • Play zone exclusively for public use
      • Better public access, landscaped public areas and parking

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: STEALTHGAS INC. Reports First Quarter 2025 Financial and Operating Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ATHENS, Greece, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — STEALTHGAS INC. (NASDAQ: GASS), a ship-owning company serving the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sector of the international shipping industry, announced today its unaudited financial and operating results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    OPERATIONAL AND FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

    • Strong profitability continued for the first quarter, with Net income of $14.1 million corresponding to a basic EPS of $0.38, similar to the previous quarter’s $14.2 million but reduced compared to the $17.7 million record at the time achieved in the first quarter of 2024.
    • Time Charter equivalent revenues decreased by 4.6% compared to the same period of last year to $36.9 million for the first quarter of 2025 as a result of a more muted market.
    • Preserved the high period coverage. About 70% of fleet days for 2025 are secured on period charters, with total fleet employment days for all subsequent periods generating over $165 million (excl. JV vessels) in contracted revenues.
    • Continued reducing leverage, making $34.4 million in debt repayments during the first quarter of 2025 and a further $19.2 million in the current quarter of 2025. Currently, all the vessels in the fully owned fleet except one are unencumbered.
    • Since the last quarterly announcement the Company has spent $1.8 million in share repurchases. Overall under the current program the Company has spent over $21.2 million in share repurchases since June 2023.
    • Maintaining ample cash and cash equivalents (incl. restricted cash) of $77.1 million as of March 31, 2025 enabling the Company to further reduce debt.

    First Quarter 2025 Results1:

    • Revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2025 amounted to $42.0 million compared to revenues of $41.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024, based on an average of 28.0 vessels and 27.0 vessels owned by the Company, respectively, as the vessels remaining in the fleet earned higher revenues due to better market conditions.
    • Voyage expenses and vessels’ operating expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2025, were $5.1 million and $13.5 million, respectively, compared to $2.9 million and $11.5 million, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2024. The $2.2 million increase in voyage expenses was mainly due to an increase in port expenses and in bunkers costs as a result of the increase in spot market days for the fleet. The $2.0 million increase in vessels’ operating expenses was mainly due to increase in crew costs and maintenance expenses.
    • Drydocking costs for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 were $0.4 million and nil, respectively. Drydocking expenses during the first quarter of 2025 mainly relate to the commenced drydocking of one vessel, compared to no drydocking of vessels in the same period of last year.
    • General and administrative expenses remained stable at $2.2 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024.
    • Depreciation for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 was $6.7 million and $6.5 million, respectively, a $0.2 million increase is mainly related to the increase in average number of vessels owned by the Company and to the partial replacement of some of the older vessels with newer and larger ones which have a higher cost.
    • Impairment loss for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 was $0.5 million and nil, respectively. As a result of the agreed sale terms for the vessel Gas Cerberus, with delivery expected in the second quarter of 2025, a non-cash impairment loss of $0.5 million was recognized in the first quarter of 2025.
    • Interest and finance costs for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, were $1.4 million and $3.2 million, respectively. The $1.8 million decrease from the same period of last year is primarily due to continued debt prepayments.
    • Interest income for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, remained unchanged at $0.8 million.
    • Equity earnings in joint ventures for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 was a gain of $2.2 million and $2.6 million, respectively. The $0.4 million decrease was primarily due to decrease in number of vessels in joint ventures.
    • As a result of the above, for the three months ended March 31, 2025, the Company reported net income of $14.1 million, compared to net income of $17.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024. The weighted average number of shares outstanding, basic, for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 was 35.7 million and 35.1 million, respectively.
    • Earnings per share, basic, for the three months ended March 31, 2025 amounted to $0.38 compared to earnings per share, basic, of $0.49 for the same period of last year.
    • Adjusted net income was $16.1 million corresponding to an Adjusted EPS of $0.44 for the three months ended March 31, 2025 compared to Adjusted net income of $19.1 million corresponding to an Adjusted EPS of $0.53 for the same period of last year.
    • EBITDA for the three months ended March 31, 2025 amounted to $21.4 million. Reconciliations of Adjusted Net Income, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to Net Income are set forth below.
    • An average of 28.0 vessels were owned by the Company during the three months ended March 31, 2025 compared to 27.04 vessels for the same period of 2024.

    1 EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted EPS are non-GAAP measures. Refer to the reconciliation of these measures to the most directly comparable financial measure in accordance with GAAP set forth later in this release.

    Fleet Update Since Previous Announcement

    The Company announced the conclusion of the following chartering arrangements (of three or more months duration):

    • A twelve months time charter for its 2016 built LPG carrier Eco Dominator, until Mar 2026.
    • A twelve months time charter extension for its 2016 built LPG carrier Eco Nical, until May 2026.
    • A six months time charter extension for the 2012 built LPG carrier Gas Esco, until Sep 2025.

    As of June 2025, the Company has total contracted revenues of approximately $165 million.

    As of June 2025, for the remainder of the year, the Company has circa 70% of fleet days secured under period contracts and contracted revenues of approximately $72 million.

    In April 2025, the Company entered into an agreement to sell the vessel Gas Cerberus to a third party, with delivery expected in the second quarter of 2025. The vessel is debt-free, and the full proceeds from the sale will contribute to the Company’s liquidity position.

    The Company has agreed in principle to purchase back from one of its joint venture partners the remaining share (49.9%) which it does not already own in the two vessels Eco Lucidity and Gas Haralambos. The transaction is subject to entry into definitive documentation and customary conditions and is expected to take place within June 2025. Following this transaction, these two vessels will be consolidated within the fully owned fleet of the Company and only one vessel will remain in a JV.

    Board Chairman Michael Jolliffe Commented

    The results that were announced today point to a strong start to the year and underpin our confidence in sustaining the momentum we have built over the last years, throughout 2025. It is no doubt a period of uncertainty and in such periods, among other things, there is reluctance by charterers to commit longer term. With the latest developments, we expect trade flows to normalize and sentiment to improve as the fundamentals of LPG shipping continue to be positive. In this volatile environment StealthGas remains steadfast in its strategy and has all but eliminated its financial risk, being net debt free after having made over $50 million in debt repayments during this year and having 27 out of 28 vessels unencumbered. At the same time in order to return value to our shareholders, we have begun buying back shares, spending $1.8 million in share repurchases since March. Overall under the current program the Company has spent over $21.2 million in share repurchases since June 2023.

    Conference Call details:

    On May 28, 2025 at 10:00 am ET, the company’s management will host a conference call to discuss the results and the company’s operations and outlook.

    Conference call participants should pre-register using the below link to receive the dial-in numbers and a personal PIN, which are required to access the conference call.

    https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI2ab472844539410f8650314c8df8fdaf

    Slides and audio webcast:
    There will also be a live and then archived webcast of the conference call, through the STEALTHGAS INC. website (www.stealthgas.com). Participants to the live webcast should register on the website approximately 10 minutes prior to the start of the webcast.

    About STEALTHGAS INC.

    StealthGas Inc. is a ship-owning company serving the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sector of the international shipping industry. StealthGas Inc. has a fleet of 31 LPG carriers, including three Joint Venture vessels in the water. These LPG vessels have a total capacity of 349,170 cubic meters (cbm). StealthGas Inc.’s shares are listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market and trade under the symbol “GASS.”
    Visit our website at www.stealthgas.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Matters discussed in this release may constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to future events and financial performance and may include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance and underlying assumptions and other statements, which are other than statements of historical facts. The forward-looking statements in this release are based upon various assumptions, many of which are based, in turn, upon further assumptions, including without limitation, management’s examination of historical operating trends, data contained in our records and other data available from third parties. Although STEALTHGAS INC. believes that these assumptions were reasonable when made, because these assumptions are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies which are difficult or impossible to predict and are beyond our control, STEALTHGAS INC. cannot assure you that it will achieve or accomplish these expectations, beliefs or projections. Important factors that, in our view, could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements include the strength of world economies and currencies, geopolitical conditions, including any trade disruptions resulting from tariffs and other protectionist measures imposed by the United States or other countries, general market conditions, including changes in charter hire rates and vessel values, charter counterparty performance, changes in demand that may affect attitudes of time charterers to scheduled and unscheduled drydockings, shipyard performance, changes in STEALTHGAS INC’s operating expenses, including bunker prices, drydocking and insurance costs, ability to obtain financing and comply with covenants in our financing arrangements, actions taken by regulatory authorities, potential liability from pending or future litigation, domestic and international political conditions, the conflict in Ukraine and related sanctions, the conflict in Israel and Gaza, potential disruption of shipping routes due to ongoing attacks by Houthis in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden or accidents and political events or acts by terrorists.

    Risks and uncertainties are further described in reports filed by STEALTHGAS INC. with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

    Fleet List
    For information on our fleet and further information:
    Visit our website at www.stealthgas.com

    Fleet Data:
    The following key indicators highlight the Company’s operating performance during the periods ended March 31, 2024 and 2025.

    FLEET DATA Q1 2024   Q1 2025  
    Average number of vessels (1) 27.04   28.00  
    Period end number of owned vessels in fleet 27   28  
    Total calendar days for fleet (2) 2,461   2,520  
    Total voyage days for fleet (3) 2,439   2,500  
    Fleet utilization (4) 99.1%   99.2%  
    Total charter days for fleet (5) 2,232   2,118  
    Total spot market days for fleet (6) 207   382  
    Fleet operational utilization (7) 97.7%   94.0%  
             

    1) Average number of vessels is the number of owned vessels that constituted our fleet for the relevant period, as measured by the sum of the number of days each vessel was a part of our fleet during the period divided by the number of calendar days in that period.
    2) Total calendar days for fleet are the total days the vessels we operated were in our possession for the relevant period including off-hire days associated with major repairs, drydockings or special or intermediate surveys.
    3) Total voyage days for fleet reflect the total days the vessels we operated were in our possession for the relevant period net of off-hire days associated with major repairs, drydockings or special or intermediate surveys.
    4) Fleet utilization is the percentage of time that our vessels were available for revenue generating voyage days and is determined by dividing voyage days by fleet calendar days for the relevant period.
    5) Total charter days for fleet are the number of voyage days the vessels operated on time or bareboat charters for the relevant period.
    6) Total spot market charter days for fleet are the number of voyage days the vessels operated on spot market charters for the relevant period.
    7) Fleet operational utilization is the percentage of time that our vessels generated revenue and is determined by dividing voyage days excluding commercially idle days by fleet calendar days for the relevant period.

    Reconciliation of Adjusted Net Income, EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA and adjusted EPS:

    Adjusted net income represents net income before loss/gain on derivatives excluding swap interest paid/received, impairment loss, net gain/loss on sale of vessels and share based compensation. EBITDA represents net income before interest and finance costs, interest income and depreciation. Adjusted EBITDA represents net income before interest and finance costs, interest income, depreciation, impairment loss, net gain/loss on sale of vessels, share based compensation and loss/gain on derivatives.

    Adjusted EPS represents Adjusted net income divided by the weighted average number of shares.

    EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income and adjusted EPS are included herein because they are a basis, upon which we and our investors assess our financial performance. They allow us to present our performance from period to period on a comparable basis and provide investors with a means of better evaluating and understanding our operating performance.

    EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income and adjusted EPS are not recognized measurements under U.S. GAAP. Our calculation of EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income and adjusted EPS may not be comparable to that reported by other companies in the shipping or other industries. In evaluating Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted net income and Adjusted EPS, you should be aware that in the future we may incur expenses that are the same as or similar to some of the adjustments in this presentation.

    (Expressed in United States Dollars,
    except number of shares)    		 Three Months Period Ended March 31st,
      2024  2025 
    Net Income – Adjusted Net Income    
    Net income 17,729,716   14,107,680  
    Less gain on derivatives (99,286 ) —  
    Plus swap interest received 208,127   —  
    Less gain on sale of vessels, net (46,384 ) —  
    Plus impairment loss —   488,400  
    Plus share based compensation 1,345,409   1,540,402  
    Adjusted Net Income 19,137,582   16,136,482  
         
    Net income – EBITDA    
    Net income 17,729,716   14,107,680  
    Plus interest and finance costs 3,169,061   1,415,605  
    Less interest income (753,396 ) (752,471 )
    Plus depreciation 6,492,376   6,653,460  
    EBITDA 26,637,757   21,424,274  
         

    Net income – Adjusted EBITDA

    		    
    Net income 17,729,716   14,107,680  
    Less gain on derivatives (99,286 ) —  
    Less gain on sale of vessels, net (46,384 ) —  
    Plus impairment loss —   488,400  
    Plus share based compensation 1,345,409   1,540,402  
    Plus interest and finance costs 3,169,061   1,415,605  
    Less interest income (753,396 ) (752,471 )
    Plus depreciation 6,492,376   6,653,460  
    Adjusted EBITDA 27,837,496   23,453,076  
         
    EPS – Adjusted EPS    
    Net income 17,729,716   14,107,680  
    Adjusted net income 19,137,582   16,136,482  
    Weighted average number of shares, basic 35,119,500   35,725,720  
    EPS – Basic 0.49   0.38  
    Adjusted EPS – Basic 0.53   0.44  
             

    StealthGas Inc.
    Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income
    (Expressed in United States Dollars, except for number of shares)

        Three Months Period Ended March 31,
        2024  2025 
         
    Revenues    
      Revenues 41,563,908     42,025,987  
           
    Expenses    
      Voyage expenses 2,345,200     4,573,956  
      Voyage expenses – related party 513,247     518,440  
      Vessels’ operating expenses 11,235,359     13,282,235  
      Vessels’ operating expenses – related party 241,500     228,200  
      Drydocking costs –     412,620  
      Management fees – related party 1,053,719     1,080,001  
      General and administrative expenses 2,213,853     2,165,709  
      Depreciation 6,492,376     6,653,460  
      Impairment loss –     488,400  
      Net gain on sale of vessels (46,384 )   –  
    Total expenses 24,048,870     29,403,021  
           
    Income from operations 17,515,038     12,622,966  
           
    Other (expenses)/income    
      Interest and finance costs (3,169,061 )   (1,415,605 )
      (Loss)/gain on derivatives 99,286     –  
      Interest income 753,396     752,471  
      Foreign exchange (loss)/gain (49,044 )   (26,484 )
    Other expenses, net (2,365,423 )   (689,618 )
           
    Income before equity in earnings of investees 15,149,615     11,933,348  
    Equity earnings in joint ventures 2,580,101     2,174,332  
    Net Income 17,729,716     14,107,680  
           
    Earnings per share    
    – Basic 0.49     0.38  
    – Diluted 0.49     0.39  
           
    Weighted average number of shares    
    – Basic 35,119,500     35,725,720  
    – Diluted 35,247,529     35,764,990  
               

    StealthGas Inc.
    Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (Expressed in United States Dollars)

        December 31, March 31,
        2024 2025 
           
    Assets    
    Current assets    
      Cash and cash equivalents 80,653,398 74,392,306  
      Trade and other receivables 6,156,300 7,253,738  
      Other current assets 193,265 422,168  
      Claims receivable 55,475 55,475  
      Inventories 3,891,147 3,198,028  
      Advances and prepayments 733,212 549,263  
      Fair value of derivatives 387,608 280,577  
    Total current assets 92,070,405 86,151,555  
           
    Non current assets    
      Operating lease right-of-use assets — 202,362  
      Vessels, net 608,214,416 601,072,556  
      Other receivables 370,053 237,561  
      Restricted cash 3,867,752 2,734,442  
      Investments in joint ventures 27,717,238 27,257,570  
    Total non current assets 640,169,459 631,504,491  
    Total assets 732,239,864 717,656,046  
           
    Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity    
    Current liabilities    
      Payable to related parties 388,130 3,039,119  
      Trade accounts payable 10,994,434 10,485,931  
      Accrued liabilities 4,922,587 5,119,206  
      Operating lease liabilities — 120,938  
      Deferred income 4,304,667 5,882,276  
      Current portion of long-term debt 23,333,814 20,722,094  
    Total current liabilities 43,943,632 45,369,564  
           
    Non current liabilities    
      Operating lease liabilities — 81,424  
      Deferred income 213,563 586,577  
      Long-term debt 61,555,855 30,251,709  
    Total non current liabilities 61,769,418 30,919,710  
    Total liabilities 105,713,050 76,289,274  
           
    Commitments and contingencies    
           
    Stockholders’ equity    
      Capital stock 370,414 371,664  
      Treasury stock — (1,057,343 )
      Additional paid-in capital 409,912,934 411,808,336  
      Retained earnings 215,855,858 229,963,538  
      Accumulated other comprehensive income 387,608 280,577  
    Total stockholders’ equity 626,526,814 641,366,772  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity 732,239,864 717,656,046  


    StealthGas Inc.
    Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
    (Expressed in United States Dollars)

        Three Months Period Ended March 31,
        2024   2025  
         
    Cash flows from operating activities    
      Net income for the period 17,729,716   14,107,680  
           
    Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash    
    provided by operating activities:    
      Depreciation 6,492,376   6,653,460  
      Amortization of deferred finance charges 258,295   508,464  
      Amortization of operating lease right-of-use assets 24,745   29,194  
      Share based compensation 1,345,409   1,540,402  
      Change in fair value of derivatives 108,840   —  
      Proceeds from disposal of interest rate swaps 1,018,000   —  
      Equity earnings in joint ventures (2,580,101 ) (2,174,332 )
      Dividends received from joint ventures –   2,634,000  
      Impairment loss –   488,400  
      Gain on sale of vessels (46,384 ) —  
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities:    
      (Increase)/decrease in    
      Trade and other receivables (35,143 ) (964,946 )
      Other current assets 129,193   (228,903 )
      Inventories 353,756   693,119  
      Changes in operating lease liabilities (24,745 ) (29,194 )
      Advances and prepayments (159,743 ) 183,949  
      Increase/(decrease) in    
      Balances with related parties (1,390,625 ) 2,650,989  
      Trade accounts payable (475,368 ) (508,503 )
      Accrued liabilities 240,202   196,619  
      Deferred income 688,600   1,950,623  
    Net cash provided by operating activities 23,677,023   27,731,021  
           
    Cash flows from investing activities    
      Proceeds from sale of vessels, net 34,679,584   —  
      Acquisition and improvements of vessels (96,413,470 ) —  
      Advances to joint ventures (1,705 ) —  
    Net cash used in investing activities (61,735,591 ) —  
           
    Cash flows from financing activities    
      Proceeds from exercise of stock options 356,250   356,250  
      Stock repurchase (338,176 ) (1,057,343 )
      Deferred finance charges paid (22,167 ) —  
      Advances to joint ventures (11,848 ) —  
      Loan repayments (32,045,235 ) (34,424,330 )
      Proceeds from long-term debt 70,000,000   —  
    Net cash provided by/(used in) financing activities 37,938,824   (35,125,423 )
           
    Net decrease in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash (119,744 ) (7,394,402 )
    Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period 83,755,701   84,521,150  
    Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period 83,635,957   77,126,748  
    Cash breakdown    
      Cash and cash equivalents 77,085,417   74,392,306  
      Restricted cash, current —   —  
      Restricted cash, non current 6,550,540   2,734,442  
    Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash shown in the statements of cash flows 83,635,957   77,126,748  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: NFB animator Co Hoedeman dies at age 84

    Source: Government of Canada News

    May 27, 2025 – Montreal – National Film Board of Canada (NFB)

    The National Film Board of Canada (NFB) is mourning the passing of distinguished animator and director Co Hoedeman, who died on May 26 in Montreal at the age of 84.

    Born in Amsterdam on August 1, 1940, Co was a master of stop-motion animation whose 1977 NFB production The Sand Castle received the Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film.

    “Co Hoedeman was a master animator, whose long career at the NFB was distinguished by innovative filmmaking and powerful humanitarian themes. He cared deeply for the well-being of children and was also a fierce defender of the importance of public filmmaking. The NFB and the Canadian animation community have lost a dear friend and colleague. Fortunately for us, we have his legacy of beloved works, which embody so much of his unique spirit,” said Suzanne Guèvremont, Government Film Commissioner and NFB Chairperson.

    Select biography

    Shortly after directing his early films with the NFB, including his award-winning Oddball (1969), Co travelled to Czechoslovakia in 1970 to study puppet animation and then returned to the NFB to begin a series of stop-motion gems.

    Tchou-tchou (1972), created with wooden blocks, received the British Academy award (BAFTA) for Best Animated Film.

    During the 1970s, Co created a series of acclaimed animated films based on Inuit traditional stories, collaborating closely with artists from Nunavut and Nunavik.

    Following his Oscar win for The Sand Castle, he continued to experiment with a range of techniques and themes.

    In 1992, he worked with Indigenous inmates at La Macaza Institution to create The Sniffing Bear, a cautionary tale about substance abuse. In 1998, he began work on a beloved children’s series about Ludovic, a young teddy bear, available in the NFB collection Four Seasons in the Life of Ludovic.

    After completing his final film with the NFB, Marianne’s Theatre (2004), Co began a busy independent animation career. He collaborated with the NFB on the co-production 55 Socks (2011), a deeply personal project drawing on his childhood memories during a dark period of Dutch history, the Hunger Winter of 1944–45. He would also adapt his Ludovic character into a popular children’s TV series.

    In 2003, the Cinémathèque québécoise and the NFB paid tribute to Co and his importance to Quebec cinema with an exhibition entitled “Exposition Co Hoedeman – Les Jardins de l’enfance.” The exhibition was presented the following year at the Musée-Château d’Annecy in France.

    Co was interviewed in 2013 for the NFB online anthology Making Movie History and was the subject of the 1980 NFB documentary Co Hoedeman, Animator. All of his NFB films are available online free of charge at nfb.ca.

    – 30 –

    Stay Connected

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    Curator’s perspective | Director’s notes

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    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Hockey night in Belfast? How Canada’s sport could be bridging longtime sectarian divides

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Eric Lepp, Assistant Professor of Peace and Conflict Studies, University of Waterloo

    The Belfast Giants celebrate a goal. (Belfast Giants)

    In its simplest form, the protracted tensions in Northern Ireland have at their foundation two separate sectarian identities deeply divided over how, and by whom, they are governed — Protestant/Unionist populations wishing to maintain British rule and Catholic/Nationalists desiring a united Ireland.

    The 1998 Good Friday Peace Agreement brought an end to armed hostilities that devastated cities and towns through years of urban guerilla conflict. Yet divisions remain sewn into the everyday lives and patterns of the Northern Irish people — 90 per cent of students attend segregated schools and there are few friendships spanning the sectarian divide.

    One setting sits identifiably apart from these entrenched divisions: the ice hockey arena. Now in their 25th season, the Belfast Giants, Ireland’s only professional hockey team, impressively draws an average of 6,480 spectators to their games. They’ve also built a large and enthusiastic fan base known as the “Teal Army.”

    As a spectator sport with limited opportunity to play the game competitively and no significant history on either side of the conflict, the hockey arena has emerged as something of a neutral ground where fans from different backgrounds come together side-by-side.

    The arena is a place where symbols of division, so common across Northern Ireland via flags, murals and graffiti, are not allowed.

    The lack of a historical association with one side of the conflict, the fact that the sport is played predominantly by men from outside Northern Ireland — mostly from North America and Scandinavia — and a name and logo rooted in the shared regional lore of mythical giant Finn McCool has allowed the team to forge its own path post-peace agreement.

    The Belfast Giants Mascot, Finn McCool, at a recent game.
    (Belfast Giants)

    The Friendship Four

    In 2015, after years of planning, the Belfast Giants hosted the inaugural Friendship Four hockey tournament.

    Held over the American Thanksgiving weekend, the tournament has since become an annual event that sees four Division I hockey teams from American universities come to Belfast for a two-day experience that includes intercultural exchange, educational visits to local schools and a hockey tournament.

    The Friendship Four promotional poster.
    (Notre Dame Hockey X account)

    Since the tournament began, it has hosted teams from the New England and Boston areas as a means of fostering stronger ties between the sister cities of Belfast and Boston.

    In 2024, the Friendship Four tournament notably included a school with a long association with Ireland, the University of Notre Dame. As a prominent American Catholic university with a team name — the Fighting Irish — that is directly connected to the island’s divisive history, the team’s inclusion in the Friendship Four had the potential to tarnish the neutrality of the event.

    Controversial social media post

    As a researcher who has engaged significantly with supporters of the Belfast Giants, and as an alumnus of the University of Notre Dame, this tournament drew me to Belfast.

    The ‘Know Before You Go’ post from Notre Dame Hockey on X on Nov. 19, 2024 that was subsequently deleted.
    (Notre Dame Hockey X account)

    Before the 2024 tournament in November, the Notre Dame Hockey account posted guidelines on X for their supporters in Belfast, including an image of what to wear, and what not to wear, around the city. It noted: “Just a reminder to avoid our Irish symbolism, that may be deemed offensive to some, while out around town.”

    The post was deleted a few hours later, and an apology was issued acknowledging the tournament was meant to build bridges, not stoke division. Nonetheless, the original post drew significant attention and criticism.

    Belfast media and British news outlets picked up the story about the Notre Dame post. Many of the comments on social media about the story were situated in ethno-sectarian views or pointed fingers of blame.

    The outrage that greeted the Notre Dame X post demonstrates the tension and complexity of identity and symbols in Northern Ireland. But it thankfully wasn’t replicated in the Belfast hockey arena because the groundwork of social capital among hockey fans in the city has been built over the last 25 years.

    ‘Game on!’ and getting on with it

    On Nov. 29, 2024, the Notre Dame team took to the ice to play against Harvard without any extra fanfare.

    The afternoon game was filled with school groups carrying homemade signs and cheering for the teams whose players had visited their schools earlier in the week with overt hopes of seeing themselves on the jumbotrons. The game could have been in Saskatoon given the lack of any sectarian tensions.

    Action at the Friendship Four Championship Hockey Game on Nov. 30, 2024, in Belfast.
    (Notre Dame Hockey Facebook)

    In an age of rising polarization and lack of human connection, the hockey arena in Belfast is worthy of attention.

    Hallmarks of post-conflict reconstruction include the development of a shared understanding of the truth about past events and directly engaging with contested acts and issues. Neither effort has been particularly well-executed in Northern Ireland.

    Nonetheless, as people wait for a more fulsome peace in the region, they have managed to live peacefully side by side in places like the Belfast hockey arena.

    As peace and conflict research continues its attempts to understand how those in conflict-affected communities navigate their everyday lives, the importance of non-traditional, non-partisan activities that can bridge divides should not be overlooked.

    Eric Lepp 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. Hockey night in Belfast? How Canada’s sport could be bridging longtime sectarian divides – https://theconversation.com/hockey-night-in-belfast-how-canadas-sport-could-be-bridging-longtime-sectarian-divides-257094

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: When Elvis and Ella were pressed onto X-rays – the subversive legacy of Soviet ‘bone music’

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Richard Gunderman, Chancellor’s Professor of Medicine, Liberal Arts, and Philanthropy, Indiana University

    In the Soviet Union, some clever people realized that X-ray film was just soft enough to be etched by a sound recording device. Michelle Mengsu Chang/Toronto Star via Getty Images

    When Western Electric invented electrical sound recording 100 years ago, it completely transformed the public’s relationship to music.

    Before then, recording was done mechanically, scratching sound waves onto rolled paper or a cylinder. Such recordings suffered from low fidelity and captured only a small segment of the audible sound spectrum.

    By using electrical microphones, amplifiers and electromechanical recorders, record companies could capture a far wider range of sound frequencies, with much higher fidelity. For the first time, recorded sound closely resembled what a live listener would hear. Over the ensuing years, sales of vinyl records and record players boomed.

    The technology also allowed some enterprising music fans to make recordings in surprising and innovative ways. As a physician and scholar in the medical humanities, I am fascinated by the use of X-ray film to make recordings – what was known as “bone music,” or “ribs.”

    This rather bizarre, homemade technology became a way to skirt censors in the Soviet Union – and even played an indirect role in its dissolution.

    Skirting the Soviet censorship regime

    At the end of World War II, Soviet censorship shifted into high gear in an effort to suppress a Western culture deemed threatening or decadent.

    Many books and poems could circulate only through “samizdat,” a portmanteau of “self” and “publishing” that involved the use of copy machines to reproduce forbidden texts. Punishments inflicted on Soviet artists and citizens for producing or disseminating censored materials included loss of employment, imprisonment in gulags and even execution.

    The phonographic analog of samizdat was often referred to as “roentgenizdat,” which was derived from the name of Wilhelm Roentgen, the German scientist who received the first Nobel Prize in physics in 1901 for his discovery of X-rays.

    Roentgen’s work revolutionized medicine, making it possible to peer inside the living human body without cutting it open and enabling physicians to more easily and accurately diagnose skeletal fractures and diseases such as pneumonia.

    Today, X-rays are produced and stored digitally. But for most of the 20th century they were created on photographic film and stored in large film libraries, which took up a great deal of space.

    Because exposed X-ray films cannot be reused, hospitals often recycled them to recoup the silver they contained.

    Making music from medicine

    In the Soviet Union in the 1940s, some clever people realized that X-ray film was just soft enough to be etched by an electromechanical lathe, or sound recording device.

    To make a “rib,” or “bone record,” they would use a compass to trace out a circle on an exposed X-ray film that might bear the image of a patient’s skull, spine or hands. They then used scissors to cut out the circle, before cutting a small hole in the middle so it would fit on a conventional record player.

    Then they would use a recording device to cut either live sound or, more commonly, a bootleg record onto the X-ray film. Sound consists of vibrations that the lathe’s stylus etches into grooves on the disc. Such devices were not widely available, meaning that only a relatively small number of people could produce such recordings.

    A disc-cutting lathe demonstrates the production of an X-ray record at a 2021 exhibition in Berlin, Germany.
    Adam Berry/Getty Images

    The censors kept a close eye on record companies. But anyone who could obtain a recording device could record music on pieces of X-ray film, and these old films could be obtained after hospitals threw them out or purchased at a relatively low price from hospital employees.

    Compared with professionally produced vinyl records, the sound quality was poor, with recordings marred by extraneous noises such as hisses and crackles. The records could be played only a limited number of times before the grooves would wear out.

    Nonetheless, these resourceful recordings were shared, bought and sold entirely outside of official channels into the 1960s and 1970s.

    A window into another life

    Popular artists “on the bone” included Ella Fitzgerald and Elvis Presley, whose jazz and rock ’n’ roll recordings, to the ears of many Soviet citizens, represented freedom and self-expression.

    In his book “Bone Music,” cultural historian Stephen Coates describes how Soviet authorities viewed performers such as The Beatles as toxic because they appeared to promote a brand of amoral hedonism and distracted citizens from Communist party priorities.

    One Soviet critic of bone music recalled of its purveyors:

    “It is true that from time to time they are caught, their equipment confiscated, and they may even be brought to court. But then they may be released and be free to go wherever they like. The judges decide that they are, of course, parasites, but they are not dangerous. They are getting suspended sentences! But these record producers are not just engaged in illegal operations. They corrupt young people diligently and methodically with a squeaky cacophony and spread explicit obscenities.”

    Bone music was inherently subversive.

    For one thing, it was against the law. Moreover, the music itself suggested that a different sort of life is possible, beyond the strictures of Communist officials. How could a political system that prohibited beautiful music, many asked, possibly merit the allegiance of its citizens?

    The ability of citizens to get around the censors and spread Western thought, whether through books or bone music, helped chip away at the government’s legitimacy.

    One Soviet-era listener Coates interviewed long after the USSR’s collapse described the joy of listening to these illicit recordings:

    “I was lifted up off the ground, I started flying. Rock’n’roll showed me a new world, a world of music, words, and feelings, of life, of a different lifestyle. That’s why, when I got my first records, I became a happy man. I felt like a changed person, it was as if I was born again.”

    The playing of a bootleg record from the Soviet Union, recorded on an X-ray negative.

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

    – ref. When Elvis and Ella were pressed onto X-rays – the subversive legacy of Soviet ‘bone music’ – https://theconversation.com/when-elvis-and-ella-were-pressed-onto-x-rays-the-subversive-legacy-of-soviet-bone-music-251885

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The hidden power of cultural exchanges in countering propaganda and fostering international goodwill

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Nicholas J. Cull, Professor of Communication, USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism

    The bluegrass group Della Mae plays at an orphanage in Kyrgyzstan on its State Department-sponsored American Music Abroad tour in 2012. Photo: Paul Rockower

    At a time when China is believed to spend about US$8 billion annually sending its ideas and culture around the world, President Donald Trump has proposed to cut by 93% the part of the State Department that does the same thing for the United States.

    The division is called the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Among its other activities, the bureau brings foreign leaders to the U.S. for visits, funds much of the Fulbright international student, scholar and teacher exchange program and works to get American culture to places all across the globe.

    Does this matter?

    As a historian specializing in the role of communication in foreign policy, I think it does. Reputation is part of national security, and the U.S. has historically enhanced its reputation by building relationships through cultural tools.

    Previous U.S. administrations have realized this, including during President Donald Trump’s first term, when his team, led by Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs Marie Royce, raised the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs budget to an all-time high.

    Modern Jazz Quartet traveled to Germany in 1960 as jazz ambassadors on a State Department-sponsored tour.

    Giving politics a human dimension

    Government-funded cultural diplomacy is an old practice. In 1889, President Benjamin Harrison’s government hosted a delegation of leaders from Latin America on a 5,000-mile rail tour around the American heartland as a curtain raiser for the first Pan-American conference. The visitors met a variety of American icons, from wordsmith Mark Twain to gunsmiths Horace Smith and Daniel B. Wesson.

    President Teddy Roosevelt initiated the first longer-term cultural exchange program by spending money raised from an indemnity imposed on the Chinese government for its mishandling of the Boxer Rebellion, during which Western diplomats had been held hostage. The program, for the education of Chinese people, included study in the U.S. In contrast, European powers did nothing special with their share of the money.

    During World II, Nelson Rockefeller, who led a special federal agency created to build links to Latin America, brought South American writers to the U.S. to experience the country firsthand. In so doing, he invented the short-term leader visit as a type of exchange.

    This work went into high gear during the 1950s. The U.S. sought to stitch postwar Germany back into the community of nations, so that nation became a particular focus. Programs linked emerging global leaders to Americans with similar interests: doctor to doctor; pastor to pastor; politician to politician.

    I found that by 1963, one-third of the German federal parliament and two-thirds of the German Cabinet had been cultivated this way.

    Visits gave a human dimension to political alignment, and returnees had the ability to speak to their countrymen and women with the authority of personal experience.

    From jazz to promoting peace

    The globally focused International Visitor Leadership Program built early-career relationships between U.S. citizens and young foreign leaders who later played a central role in aligning their nations with American policy.

    Nearly 250,000 participants have traveled to the U.S. since 1940, including about 500 who went on to lead their own governments.

    Future Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher of Britain visited as a young member of Parliament; F.W. De Klerk came from South Africa and saw the post-Jim Crow South before he helped lead his country to dismantling apartheid; and Egypt’s Anwar Sadat visited the U.S. and began to build trust with Americans a decade before he became leader of his country and partnered with President Jimmy Carter to advance peace with Israel.

    British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher’s note from 10 Downing Street about her 1967 exchange visit to the US – ‘Forevermore I shall be a true friend to the United States.’
    U.S. Department of State

    Cultural work more broadly has included helping export U.S. music to places where it would not normally be heard. The Cold War tours of American jazz musicians are justly famous. Work bringing together the world’s sometimes persecuted writers for creative sanctuary at the International Writing Program at the University of Iowa is less well known.

    The Reagan administration arranged citizen-to-citizen meetings with the Soviet Union to thaw the Cold War. Reagan’s theory was that ordinary citizens could connect: He imagined a typical Ivan and Anya meeting a typical Jim and Sally and understanding each other.

    Current programs include bringing emerging highfliers in tech, music and sports to the U.S. to connect to and be mentored by Americans in the same field and then go home to be part of a living network of enhanced understanding. Such programs are in danger of being cut under Trump.

    Five U.S. hip-hop artists traveled to Harare, Zimbabwe, in 2024 to perform for audiences and collaborate with local artists as part of the State Department’s Next Level program.
    U.S. Department of State

    Personal experience conquers stereotypes

    How exactly does this work advance U.S. security?

    I see these exchanges as the national equivalent to the advice given to a diplomat in kidnap training: Try to establish a rapport with your hostage-taker so that they will see the person and be inclined to mercy.

    The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs is the part of the Department of State that cultivates empathy and implicitly counters the claims of America’s detractors with personal experience. Quite simply, it is harder to hate people you really know. More than this, exchanged people frequently become the core of each embassy’s local network.

    Of course, an exchange program is just one part of a nation’s reputational security.

    Reputation flows from reality, and reality is demonstrated over time. Historically, America’s reputation has rested on the health of the country’s core institutions, including its legal system and higher education as well as its standard of living.

    U.S. reputational security has also required reform.

    In the 1950s, when President Dwight Eisenhower faced an onslaught of Soviet propaganda emphasizing racism and racial disparities within the U.S., he understood that an effective response required that the U.S. not only showcase Black achievement but also be less racist. Civil rights became a Cold War priority.

    Today, when the U.S. has no shortage of international detractors, observers at home and abroad question whether the country remains a good example of democracy.

    As lawmakers in Washington debate federal spending priorities, building relationships through cultural tools may not survive budget cuts. Historically, both sides of the political aisle have failed to appreciate the significance of investing in cultural relations.

    In 2013, when still a general heading Central Command, Jim Mattis, later Trump’s secretary of defense, was blunt about what such lack of regard would mean. In 2013 he told Congress: ‘If you don’t fund the State Department fully, then I need to buy more ammunition, ultimately.“

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

    – ref. The hidden power of cultural exchanges in countering propaganda and fostering international goodwill – https://theconversation.com/the-hidden-power-of-cultural-exchanges-in-countering-propaganda-and-fostering-international-goodwill-256316

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Logic Pro amplifies beat making on Mac and iPad with advanced new capabilities

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Logic Pro amplifies beat making on Mac and iPad with advanced new capabilities

    May 28, 2025

    UPDATE

    Logic Pro amplifies beat making on Mac and iPad with advanced new capabilities

    An enhanced Stem Splitter and new features like Flashback Capture elevate hip-hop and electronic music production to a new level

    Apple today introduced new Logic Pro updates for Mac and iPad, supercharging beat making and producing. The innovative Stem Splitter feature now offers even greater audio fidelity, and can separate guitar and piano into stems. With Flashback Capture, users can retrieve and restore inspiring performances they may have forgotten to record. And with energetic new sound packs like Dancefloor Rush, beat makers have fresh loops and kits to fuel their next track.

    Stem Splitter Delivers Enhanced Audio Fidelity and New Stems

    The updated Stem Splitter extracts greater detail from old recordings and demos, and now offers added support for guitar and piano stems.1 Producers can easily select common stem variations, such as acapella, instrumental, or instrumental with vocals using presets. Additionally, a new submix feature makes it easy for users to export just the parts of audio they want — for example, removing vocals to create an instrumental track, or pulling out the drums and bass for a custom remix.

    Recall Every Moment with Flashback Capture

    Flashback Capture allows artists to recover unforgettable performances, even if they forgot to hit record.2 Users can quickly restore MIDI and audio performances using a key command or a custom control bar button. By enabling Cycle mode, musicians can improvise multiple takes, and Flashback Capture will automatically organize each pass into a take folder.

    New Sound Packs to Amplify Music Production

    Logic Pro adds new sound packs to amplify music production. Dancefloor Rush — the latest sound pack for Mac and iPad — features a world of expertly crafted drum-and-bass sounds with over 400 dynamic loops, punchy drum kits, and a custom Live Loops grid. Today’s update also introduces two new sound packs to Logic Pro for Mac: Magnetic Imperfections and Tosin Abasi. Magnetic Imperfections brings an original texture that captures the raw, unpolished essence of analog tape, while the Tosin Abasi sound pack showcases progressive metal guitar with boutique amps, unique effects, distinctive picking techniques, and the artist’s signature riffs.

    Learn MIDI Comes to iPad for Seamless Logic Pro Integration

    Learn MIDI is now available on iPad, allowing users to get hands-on control by easily assigning their favorite knobs, faders, and buttons on MIDI devices to control plug-ins, instruments, and other automatable parameters within Logic Pro.3 With Learn MIDI’s intuitive interface and real-time visual feedback, users can quickly create custom assignments, view available controls, and stay in their creative flow.

    Additional features to enhance creativity on Mac:

    • Notepad now features integrated support for Writing Tools, powered by Apple Intelligence, giving users more flexibility and control when they’d like to make their writing more expressive, get help with a rewrite, or even collaborate on song lyrics and more right inline.4
    • Users can manage large projects with the new search and select feature, which makes it easy to find and choose tracks by their name or track number.

    Pricing and Availability

    • Logic Pro for Mac 11.2 is available May 28 as a free update for existing users and for $199.99 (U.S.) for new users on the Mac App Store. It is also available as part of the Pro Apps Bundle for Education, which includes Final Cut Pro, MainStage, Motion, and Compressor for $199.99 (U.S.). Logic Pro for Mac requires macOS Sequoia 15.4 or later. For more information, visit apple.com/logic-pro.
    • Logic Pro for iPad 2.2 is available May 28 as a free update for existing users, and available on the App Store for $4.99 (U.S.) per month or $49 (U.S.) per year, with a one-month free trial for new users. Logic Pro for iPad requires iPadOS 18.4 or later. For more information, visit apple.com/logic-pro-for-ipad.
    1. Stem Splitter requires iPad or Mac with M1 chip or later.
    2. Audio support for Flashback Capture requires Logic Pro to be in active play mode.
    3. Connecting third‑party external microphones, musical instruments, or MIDI controllers with Logic Pro for iPad requires devices compatible with iOS and iPadOS.
    4. Apple Intelligence is available in beta on iPad mini (A17 Pro), and all iPad and Mac models with M1 and later, with Siri and device language set to Chinese (Simplified), English (Australia, Canada, India, Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, UK, or U.S.), French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese (Brazil), or Spanish, as part of an iPadOS 18 and macOS Sequoia software update, with more languages coming over the course of the year, including Vietnamese. Some features may not be available in all regions or languages. For more details, visit apple.com/apple-intelligence.

    Press Contacts

    Zachary Kizer

    Apple

    z_kizer@apple.com

    Emily Ewing

    Apple

    e_ewing@apple.com

    Apple Media Helpline

    media.help@apple.com

    MIL OSI Economics –