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Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Professor Claire Stewart appointed to the Commission on Human Medicines as three members reappointed

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Professor Claire Stewart appointed to the Commission on Human Medicines as three members reappointed

    The appointment will involve a time commitment of 22 days per year. Remuneration for the role will be at a rate of £325 per attendance and preparation for meetings.

    Professor Claire Stewart has been appointed as a commissioner of the Commission on Human Medicines (CHM) for four years from 3 March 2025.

    Three other commissioners of the Commission on Human Medicines have also been reappointed, with their new terms due to begin in May.

    The CHM is an advisory non-departmental public body which is sponsored by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC).

    The CHM advises ministers on the safety, efficacy and quality of medicines.

    Three commissioners have been reappointed:

    • Professor Amanda Adler has been reappointed for a further two years from 1 May 2025.
    • Professor Steve Cunningham has been reappointed for a further two years from 1 May 2025.
    • Professor Yvonne Perrie has been reappointed for a further four years from 1 May 2025.

    The appointments will involve a time commitment of approximately 22 days per year including 11 meetings. Remuneration for the roles will be at a rate of £325 per meeting.

    All appointments are made in accordance with the Cabinet Office Code of Governance for Public Appointments.

    The regulation of public appointments against the requirements of this code is carried out by the Commissioner for Public Appointments.

    The appointments are made on merit and political activity played no part in the decision process. However, in accordance with the code, there is a requirement for appointees’ political activity (if any declared) to be made public.

    None of the appointees have declared any political activity.

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    Published 17 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The Thucydides Trap: Vital lessons from ancient Greece for China and the US … or a load of old claptrap?

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Andrew Latham, Professor of Political Science, Macalester College

    Retreat of the Athenians from Syracuse during a battle of the Peloponnesian War, from Cassell’s ‘Universal History,’ published in 1888. Ken Welsh/Design Pics/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

    The so-called Thucydides Trap has become a staple of foreign policy commentary over the past decade or so, regularly invoked to frame the escalating rivalry between the United States and China.

    Coined by political scientist Graham Allison — first in a 2012 Financial Times article and later developed in his 2017 book “Destined for War” — the phrase refers to a line from the ancient Greek historian Thucydides, who wrote in his “History of the Peloponnesian War,” “It was the rise of Athens and the fear that this instilled in Sparta that made war inevitable.”

    At first glance, this provides a compelling and conveniently packaged analogy: Rising powers provoke anxiety in established ones, leading to conflict. In today’s context, the implication seems clear – China’s rise is bound to provoke a collision with the United States, just as Athens once did with Sparta.

    But this framing risks flattening the complexity of Thucydides’ work and distorting its deeper philosophical message. Thucydides wasn’t articulating a deterministic law of geopolitics. He was writing a tragedy.

    History repeats as tragedy?

    Thucydides fought in the Peloponnesian War on the Athenian side. His world was steeped in the sensibilities of Greek tragedy, and his historical narrative carries that imprint throughout. His work is not a treatise on structural inevitability but an exploration of how human frailty, political misjudgment and moral decay can combine to unleash catastrophe.

    That tragic sensibility matters. Where modern analysts often search for predictive patterns and system-level explanations, Thucydides drew attention to the role of choice, perception and emotion. His history is filled with the corrosive effects of fear, the seductions of ambition, the failures of leadership and the tragic unraveling of judgment. This is a study in hubris and nemesis, not structural determinism.

    Much of this is lost when the phrase “Thucydides Trap” is elevated into a kind of quasi-law of international politics. It becomes shorthand for inevitability: power rises, fear responds, war follows.

    But Thucydides himself was more interested in why fear takes hold, how ambition twists judgment and how leaders — trapped in a narrowing corridor of bad options — convince themselves that war is the only viable path left. His narrative shows how conflict often arises not from necessity, but from misreading, miscalculation and passions unmoored from reason.

    Even Allison, to his credit, never claimed the “trap” was inescapable. His core argument was that war is likely but not inevitable when a rising power challenges a dominant one. In fact, much of Allison’s writing serves as a warning to break from the pattern, not to resign oneself to it.

    Traditional Russian wooden dolls depict China’s President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump.
    AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky

    In that sense, the “Thucydides Trap” has been misused by commentators and policymakers alike. Some treat it as confirmation that war is baked into the structure of power transitions — an excuse to raise defense budgets or to talk tough with Beijing — when in fact it ought to provoke reflection and restraint.

    To read Thucydides carefully is to see that the Peloponnesian War was not solely about a shifting balance of power. It was also about pride, misjudgment and the failure to lead wisely.

    Consider his famous observation, “Ignorance is bold and knowledge reserved.” This isn’t a structural insight — it’s a human one. It’s aimed squarely at those who mistake impulse for strategy and swagger for strength. Or take his chilling formulation, “The strong do what they will and the weak suffer what they must.” That’s not an endorsement of realpolitik. It’s a tragic lament on what happens when power becomes unaccountable and justice is cast aside.

    Seen in this light, the real lesson of Thucydides is not that war is preordained, but that it becomes more likely when nations allow fear to cloud reason, when leaders mistake posturing for prudence and when strategic decisions are driven by insecurity rather than clarity.

    Thucydides reminds us how easily perception curdles into misperception — and how dangerous it is when leaders, convinced of their own virtue or necessity, stop listening to anyone who disagrees.

    It ain’t necessarily so.
    Dan Kitwood/Getty Images

    The real lessons of Thucydides

    In today’s context, invoking the Thucydides Trap as a justification for confrontation with China may do more harm than good. It reinforces the notion that conflict is already on the rails and cannot be stopped. But if there is a lesson in “The History of the Peloponnesian War,” it is not that war is inevitable but that it becomes likely when the space for prudence and reflection collapses under the weight of fear and pride. Thucydides offers not a theory of international politics, but a warning — an admonition to leaders who, gripped by their own narratives, drive their nations over a cliff.

    Avoiding that fate requires better judgment. And above all, it demands the humility to recognize that the future is not determined by structural pressures alone, but by the choices people make.

    This article is part of a series explaining foreign policy terms commonly used, but rarely explained.

    Andrew Latham 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 Thucydides Trap: Vital lessons from ancient Greece for China and the US … or a load of old claptrap? – https://theconversation.com/the-thucydides-trap-vital-lessons-from-ancient-greece-for-china-and-the-us-or-a-load-of-old-claptrap-252954

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Care leavers to be considered in council policy as it becomes a ‘locally protected characteristic’

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Thursday, 17th April 2025

    Stoke-on-Trent City Council will give new lifelong rights and protections to young people who spend time in care.

    The council’s ruling cabinet have decided to make experience of care a “locally protected characteristic” within the city.

    That means that whenever the council designs a new programme or policy, it will now consider the impact of changes to services and policy on those who have been in care.

    This would allow policies to be more effective in meeting the needs of care leavers and could lead to greater access to apprenticeships and housing, or support in times of financial hardship.

    The move goes beyond the council’s statutory responsibilities – reflecting its commitment to continuing to nurture and protect care leavers throughout their adult lives.

    Evidence shows people who have spent time in residential and foster placements are more likely to face lifelong barriers in a range of areas including education, mental health and employment opportunities.

    They also often face discrimination and stigma associated with being a care leaver.

    This comes as the council continues its wider work to support care leavers through the Care Leavers Local Offer and the Next Steps duty team, who support those who leave care up to the age of 25.

    The Next Steps team provide those leaving care with a personal adviser. They support care leavers with a range of things, from finding education or employment, to accommodation and how to cope living independently, as well as being there to offer advice and support.

    Councillor Sarah Hill, cabinet member for children’s services at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “I welcome this decision to make experience of care a locally protected characteristic, as it will help address the lifelong inequalities that care leavers face.

    “Care leavers face significant barriers towards work and education, as well as being more likely to experience a mental health condition, but this step will allow policies to be more effective in meeting care leavers’ needs, whilst strengthening inclusion.

    “We will better understand and respond to the structural disadvantage care leavers face as we continue towards creating a healthier, fairer city where all of our residents can thrive.”

    To find out more the Care Leavers Local Offer and the work that the Next Steps team do, visit: https://www.stoke.gov.uk/careleaverslocaloffer

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Extra £4.4 million UKSPF funding for community organisations, good causes and to support skills and development

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Thursday, 17th April 2025

    Local organisations, good causes and the city’s ongoing Centenary celebrations are all set to benefit from a multi-million-pound funding boost.

    The Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Funding (UKSPF) scheme has been extended to the end of March 2026 – with the city council allocated a further £4.4 million to distribute for the next 12 months.

    If approved by Cabinet on 29th April – and pending the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government – the money will be used for a raft of projects.

    Some £500,000 will go towards extending a crackdown on anti-social behaviour which has helped make Stoke-on-Trent a safer, cleaner city.

    There will be support for Ford Green Hall and Etruria Industrial Museum, and small grants to support the city’s vital hospitality and tourism sectors.

    The city council will also expand a Money MOTs scheme to help people claim money they are entitled to – it has already helped identify around £4 million in unclaimed benefits since it was launched 18 months ago.

    UKSPF funds will also support a masterplan to transform the city centre and drive economic growth.

    Other projects include

    • A new worker to keep city-centre streets clean and tidy;

    • Arts projects to brighten up the city – including street art and canal side murals;

    • Small grants for community events to attract new visitors;

    • Support for innovation among small businesses and social enterprises;

    • Extending the Inclusive Employability Hub, which supports people to find work;

    • Fully-funded adult maths courses to improving numeracy skills;

    • AI-focused training to allow people to benefit from new technologies and open up new job opportunities;

    • Skills Hubs to support small businesses to upskill their workers.

    The projects – chosen by an expert investment board – all directly support the council’s mission to drive up skill levels and make the city a healthier, wealthier, safer, greener, cleaner and fairer place.

    Councillor Jane Ashworth, Leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “This extra UKSPF funding gives us a fantastic opportunity to work with residents, businesses and community organisations to benefit the city as a whole and build on the work of the last two years.

    “It is a mix of funding the continuation of successful ongoing projects, which are making a real difference, and providing a boost to a range of new initiatives.”

    In 2023, the city council secured almost £9.5 million from the UKSPF to support key initiatives over a two-year period.

    Around £3 million was allocated to a number of priority projects to help tackle key issues within the city; while £6 million was awarded to businesses and local groups.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Celebrate VE/VJ Day 80 with community event in city

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    The City of Wolverhampton Council has waived its usual road closure fee to enable residents to connect and mark this historic occasion between 3 May and 11 May, 2025.

    People can apply for a free road closure online by Sunday 27 April at Street Parties.

    Residents are also encouraged to explore other ways to mark this occasion, including neighbourhood celebrations, connecting with neighbours in driveways, front gardens, or shared parking areas.

    Tips for a successful community event:

    • Start with a chat – talk to your neighbours and plan together
    • Fun for everyone – organise quizzes, games, and a shared food table
    • Planning resources – find free ideas and support at The Street Party Site
    • Kid friendly fun – create a “play street” with resources from Playing Out for safe and engaging activities, available at Playing Out
    • Eat together – get everyone involved using free resources from the Big Lunch at Eden Project | The Big Lunch

    Councillor Obaida Ahmed, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Digital and Community, said: “VE/VJ Day 80 is a powerful reminder of our shared history and the enduring spirit of community.

    “We want to see Wolverhampton come alive with celebrations, from intimate neighbourhood gatherings to grand street parties. By waiving road closure fees, we’re making it easier than ever for residents to honour this significant anniversary together. Let’s create lasting memories and pay tribute to those who sacrificed so much.”

    This year’s celebrations honour the momentous announcement made by Prime Minister Winston Churchill at 3pm on 8 May, 1945, signalling the end of the Second World War in Europe after nearly 6  years of brutal conflict. 2025 will also mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day on 15 August, 1945, which signified the Allies’ defeat of Japan.

    For more details of the celebrations, visit the VE/VJ Day 80 website at VE/VJ Day 80.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Japanese expert in hoarding visits Norwich to share global insights

    Source: City of Norwich

    Professor Aso, a former nurse in Japan and now an academic specialising in the study of hoarding, was aware of the good work taking place in Norwich to support residents affected by hoarding.

    Because of this she approached us, keen to learn more about our service and to share her own learnings with us.

    Hoarding is a complex and sensitive issue which can cause profound wellbeing problems for those suffering with the condition. It can also be a very difficult issue for family members and loved ones to understand.

    On top of this, there are often real barriers to tackle when it comes to getting the relevant professional services on board to provide the right kind of support to help tackle the issue.

    Council officers have witnessed first-hand how hoarding can negatively impact the lives of some residents. To help us understand more about this we were very happy to invite Professor Yasuko Aso, a public health expert from Japan, to come to City Hall and share her insights with us – drawn from across her research into hoarding.

    Rachel Omori, independent living and collaboration manager at Norwich City Council said: “Bringing in international expertise helps us see what works elsewhere and where we can do better. Learning from others allows us to keep improving support for people in Norwich.”

    During her visit, Professor Aso from Wayo Women’s University and Japan’s National Institute of Public Health, met with housing colleagues from the city council and other local organisations including St Martins Housing Trust, adult social care, and the Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care Board and INTERACT.

    Among the topics discussed was an explanation of how group workshops can help people reduce clutter and improve their quality of life.

    Professor Aso said: “In Japan, we face challenges like an ageing population, limited space, and natural disasters, which make hoarding a growing concern.
    “Norwich’s approach has given me fresh ideas to take back to my colleagues. I hope this conversation continues.”

    Those involved shared their own experiences and methods for supporting residents affected by hoarding with the aim to learn from each other and improve support services.

    Dr Jan Sheldon, chief executive of St Martins Housing Trust, said:
    “Whilst we and our partners have made great strides forward supporting people with hording behaviours over the last few years there is always more to learn. The international exchange of knowledge and experience is always important, we have much to learn from each other. It is critical that our work in this area continues to build upon our understanding and practical implementation of the Psychological Informed Environment (PIE) and Trauma Informed Care (TIC)”

    The visit, which took place earlier this month, highlights the city council’s commitment to learning from global best practice to improve lives locally, especially for residents facing complex housing and health needs. The timing of this visit helps to shine a spotlight on ‘UK Hoarding Awareness Week’ which runs from 12–16 May. Please follow our posts on social media for more updates.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke T.D. secures Government approval to publish the Short Term Letting and Tourism Bill General Scheme Minister James Browne to publish new planning guidance

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

    17th April 2025

    When:  17th April – 17th April 2028

    Minister Peter Burke has secured Cabinet approval to publish the General Scheme of the new Short Term Letting and Tourism (STLT) Bill.  The legislation will introduce a register for all Short Term Lets (STLs) in Ireland, which will be implemented and managed by Fáilte Ireland from 20 May 2026, ensuring compliance with the new EU Short Term Rental Regulation which was adopted by the EU on 11 April 2024.

    Minister for Housing James Browne has also secured approval from Government to publish a National Planning Statement on Short Term Letting, in order to give greater clarity to the sector with regards planning in advance of the commencement of the new legislation.

    Minister Burke said

    “This is a very important piece of legislation that will enable the introduction of new regulatory controls for the Short-Term Letting sector. The self-catering and wider short-term letting sector is an important element of the Irish tourism ecosystem and for the first time, we will have up to date and accurate data on the numbers and spread of this accommodation. Tourism is of critical importance to the Irish economy, providing 228,000 jobs and €6 billion income to our economy in 2024.   The long-term development of the tourism sector requires that an appropriate balance is achieved between the short-term letting sector and long-term housing market, and the wider needs of local communities, both economically and socially.”

    Minister went on to say

    “I am aware of the genuine concerns regarding the impacts on rural tourism and local economies of removing a significant cohort of STL properties from the tourism and other short-term letting market and I continue to engage with the sector in this regard. However, meeting local housing need across Ireland is a critically important consideration and Government must use every lever available to assist in providing homes for our people”.

    The new STL register will be available online and will provide a full picture of the stock of registered tourist accommodation across the state. Hosts offering STL accommodation for periods up to and including 21 nights will be obliged to register with Fáilte Ireland and hold a valid registration number that must be displayed when advertising their STL property.

    The EU STR Regulation and Ireland’s new registration requirements for STLs will both come into full force on 20 May 2026. Fáilte Ireland will apply the enforcement mechanisms provided for in the legislation in respect of non-compliant STL hosts by means of Fixed Payment Notices and/or summary proceedings in the District Court.

    The STLT Bill also provides for the introduction of an administrative sanction procedure (ASP) for infringements by online short-term rental platforms of their obligations under the STR Regulation. This will enable the State to impose large financial penalties (a maximum of 2% of turnover) to enforce compliance where necessary.

    Minister Burke will appoint an independent panel to determine the level of financial sanction to be imposed.

    The Cabinet also approved, for the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne T.D., the drafting of new planning guidance and any necessary legislative changes to implement the new Planning Guidelines in the form of a National Planning Statement on short-term letting. That Planning Statement is an important input in balancing local housing, tourism and economic needs and will provide the necessary clarity to the STL sector on the planning requirements around STL properties. The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage will publish these guidelines in advance of the final enactment of the STLT Bill.

    Minister Browne said:

    “In advance of commencement of the legislation, I will be publishing new planning guidance to give greater clarity to the short term letting sector and to allow those in tourism to plan accordingly. This guidance will seek to recognise the needs of tourism and those who visit Ireland, while also acting on the urgent aim of this Government to increase domestic rental supply. This new Housing policy is to generally preclude new planning permissions for Short term lets in cities and towns with a Census population in excess of 10,000 persons, or as may be set by Regulations, and to enable local authorities have discretion to develop policies for other locations having regard to relevant local criteria to be set out in the guidance. At present, all STL properties based in rent pressure zones are required to have appropriate planning permission in instances where a secondary property is being rented out for more than 90 days per year.  If you rent out a room in your principal private residence, planning permission is generally not required.”

    Minister Burke and his Department will consider the full implications for the Tourism sector as we await the planning clarification from the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Former Councillor and Mayor David Borrow Installed as 42nd Honorary Alderman of the City of Preston

    Source: City of Preston

    In recognition of his long-standing service and commitment to the city as a past Councillor and Mayor, the title of Honorary Alderman of the City has been bestowed upon David Borrow at an extraordinary Council meeting earlier today.

    At a special ceremony in the city’s historic Council Chamber chaired by The Right Worshipful the Mayor of Preston, Councillor Phil Crowe, David was invited to sign the Honorary Alderman Roll and was presented with a commemorative scroll. David is the 42nd Honorary Alderman of the City.

    The Office of Alderman can be found within the ancient Charters of the Borough, as early as the Guild of 1397 where records show that the Guild was held before the Mayor, three stewards, 10 Aldermen and the Clerk.

    Traditionally Aldermen were appointed to the position as they had many years of experience serving as Councillors and they held the respect of the rest of the Council. The official role of Alderman was abolished under the Local Government Act 1972 in 1974. Today, in recognition of the position Aldermen used to play in Council and civic life, the Local Government Act of 1972 enables councils to confer the title of Honorary Alderman on any person who, in the opinion of the Council, has rendered eminent services to the Council as a past member of the Council.

    David announced his retirement from politics in May 2024. David Borrow joined the Labour Party in 1970, aged 18, and was elected as a councillor to the Preston Borough Council in 1987. David was the Council Leader for Preston between 1992 and 1994, and again from 1995 until his election to Westminster. He stood down from the Council in 1998 and he served as a Member of Parliament for South Ribble during the Blair/Brown years from 1997 to 2010.

    David has served as a member of Preston City Council for a total of 24 years and was appointed the 692nd Mayor of Preston in 2019. Due to the Covid pandemic, David was one of only three Mayors in the past 100 years to serve more than a single year in the role.

    Adrian Phillips, Chief Executive at Preston City Council said:

    “It is most fitting that David Borrow is honoured in this way. We recognise and thank David for his long-standing contribution and dedication to public service to the people of Preston and the wider city region with the title of Honorary Alderman of the City.”

     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Proposed Waste and Recycling Investment

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    Proposed investment in the future of Dundee City Council’s waste and recycling operations is set to go before councillors.

    Three reports are to be considered by the next meeting of the Fair Work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure Committee.

    A sourcing strategy is being put forward for the procurement process to purchase wheeled bins, euro containers, skips and specialist containers for neighbourhood recycling points for the next year.

    Costs of £150,000 are outlined, with approval sought to proceed through the Scotland Excel procurement service.

    Councillors will hear that the annual purchase is required for new build properties and new commercial customers amongst others, as well as replacing damaged items.

    Another report focusing on recycling presents a sourcing strategy for the procurement process for the treatment of mixed scrap metal, mixed recycling: metals, plastics and cartons, as well as paper and cardboard.

    Current contracts for the three areas of recycling total around £470,000.

    New contracts would start later in 2025 and would involve the reprocessing of over 7,500 tonnes of material a year.

    Meanwhile, the committee is being asked to approve the purchase of specialist equipment for Baldovie Household Waste Recycling Centre.

    The £99,722 cost will be covered by money received from the Scottish Government’s Recycling Improvement Fund, which is being used to maximise reuse, recycling and carry out site upgrades at the city’s two recycling centres.

    The roll packer will be used for compacting waste and recycling contained in open skips. High compaction will be possible, and this will result in fewer vehicle and skip movements, leading to better operational efficiency.

    Committee convener Cllr Steven Rome said: “These reports show our commitment to improve our recycling and reuse rates and make it easier for more people to play a part in our recycling effort.”

    Climate, Environment & Biodiversity Convener Cllr Heather Anderson said: “As a council, we have declared a climate emergency with waste being one of the key themes within that declaration and the subsequent Dundee Climate Action Plan.

    “To make a real impact, it is important that we continue to improve the reduction, reuse and recycling of waste and resources in the city. So, it is vitally important that we keep investing for the future.”

    The committee meets on Monday April 21.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: NXP Semiconductors Announces Conference Call to Review First Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    EINDHOVEN, The Netherlands, April 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NXP Semiconductors N.V. (NASDAQ: NXPI) today announced it will release financial results for the first quarter 2025 after the close of normal trading on the NASDAQ Global Select Market on Monday, April 28, 2025. The company will host a conference call with the financial community on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. U.S. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT).

    Earnings Conference Call Details 
    Interested parties may pre-register for the webcast or obtain a user-specific access code to join the live conference call.

    A replay of the call will be available via webcast for on-demand listening shortly after the completion of the call.

    About NXP Semiconductors 

    NXP Semiconductors N.V. (NASDAQ: NXPI) is the trusted partner for innovative solutions in the automotive, industrial & IoT, mobile, and communications infrastructure markets. NXP’s “Brighter Together” approach combines leading-edge technology with pioneering people to develop system solutions that make the connected world better, safer, and more secure. The company has operations in more than 30 countries and posted revenue of $12.61 billion in 2024. Find out more at www.nxp.com.

       
    For further information, please contact:  
       
    Investor: Media:
    Jeff Palmer Paige Iven
    jeff.palmer@nxp.com paige.iven@nxp.com
    +1 408 205 0687 +1 817 975 0602
       

    NXP-CORP 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK backs businesses to trade carbon credits and unlock finance

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK backs businesses to trade carbon credits and unlock finance

    British businesses and organisations better supported to trade carbon credits as part of new work to establish the UK as the global hub for green finance.

    • Britain is back in the business of climate leadership, leading a new growth market and cementing UK as the green finance capital of the world
    • voluntary carbon and nature markets to unlock new revenue streams for UK businesses delivering on Plan for Change
    • UK work will boost opportunities for businesses at home and abroad to unlock private finance for the climate crisis

    British businesses and organisations will be better supported to trade carbon credits as part of new work to establish the UK as the global hub for green finance – driving growth and investment while tackling the climate crisis through the Plan for Change.

    Today the government has launched plans to strengthen voluntary carbon and nature markets which can help leverage the finance needed to address the scale of the climate emergency whilst diversifying revenue streams for British businesses.

    These markets support the trading of carbon credits, where a business can reduce their emissions by investing in environmentally friendly projects such as deploying electric vehicles, reducing deforestation, removing carbon dioxide through carbon dioxide or planting trees.

    Currently these markets are not realising their full potential, with a lack of clarity among businesses and organisations on how they can be used, and some poor practice impacting their effectiveness in delivering meaningful climate action and economic growth. There have been widespread calls from businesses and organisations for greater clarity in how to use these markets as part of their plans to reach net zero.

    In response, the UK is establishing a global framework to build trust and confidence in carbon and nature credit trading, with a set of principles to guide and support businesses on how to use carbon credits that provide environmental benefits. This includes making clear what a good credit is, ensuring they are delivering environmental benefits and encouraging businesses to fully disclose what they are being used for in annual sustainability reporting.

    These markets are estimated to be worth up to $250 billion by 2050 for carbon markets, and $69 billion for nature markets, under the right conditions. By increasing confidence in these markets, British businesses – including farmers and land managers –  will be well positioned to seize the economic rewards by creating new revenue streams and investment opportunities. 

    These plans will further strengthen the UK as the green finance capital of the world – leading the way in a new growth market, unlocking private finance for climate change and backing businesses on the clean energy transition.  

    Positive climate action can lead to significant growth opportunities for UK businesses with the UK seeing £43.7 billion of private investment into UK’s clean energy industries since July. Recent figures from the CBI shows that the net zero economy grew 3 times faster than the economy as a whole last year, with employment in the sector up by over 10%.

    Climate Minister Kerry McCarthy said:

    Building up trust in carbon and nature markets is crucial to their success in driving meaningful climate action and real, lasting change for the environment. 

    The UK is determined to spearhead global efforts to raise integrity in these markets so they can channel the finance needed to tackle the climate crisis and speed up the global clean energy transition.

    These principles will cement the UK as the global hub for green finance and carbon markets. This is an opportunity to deliver on the climate crisis and drive investment and growth in the UK as part of our Plan for Change.

    Nature Minister Mary Creagh said:

    Nature underpins everything. Voluntary carbon and nature markets will be an important tool to crowd in private finance to protect our precious peatlands, important habitats and rare species.

    It is why increasing trust in these markets will ensure that they benefit both people and our planet, ensuring money flows towards genuine environmental improvement projects and creates new sources of finance for farmers and land managers in the UK.

    Carbon credits are tradable units that represent the reduction or removal of greenhouse gases emissions from the atmosphere. One credit typically represents one metric tonne of CO2 or its equivalent. Companies or individuals purchase these credits from project developers who have generated them through activities like reforestation, cleaner energy, or other emission reduction projects. By buying the credits, they are financing projects that would not otherwise happen, in addition to steps that they are taking to reduce their own emissions.

    Mark Kenber, Executive Director, Voluntary Carbon Markets Integrity Initiative (VCMI) said:

    Businesses need clarity and confidence to invest in voluntary carbon and nature markets that help meet global climate goals. This consultation from the UK government plays a vital role in delivering this.  

    VCMI welcomes the proposal to recognise our Claims Code as international best practice, as well as the global leadership shown by the UK’s proposal to incentivise greater action by companies to address their unabated Scope 3 emissions through the inclusion of our forthcoming Scope 3 Action Code of Practice. The Code of Practice will enable companies to go further, faster and with integrity on climate action.

    The proposals in the consultation align with the UK government’s new approach to ensure regulation supports growth. The consultation explores the recommendation in the recently published Corry Review to launch a Nature Market Accelerator to bring coherence to nature markets and accelerate investment. 

    The consultation will be live for 12 weeks, seeking responses from industry organisations and the public:

    Voluntary carbon and nature markets: raising integrity

    Onel Masardule, Co-Chair, Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities Engagement Forum, Integrity Council for the Voluntary Carbon Market (ICVCM) said:

    For the voluntary carbon market to succeed, it must respect the rights and interests of Indigenous Peoples and local communities, and make us true partners – rather than just stakeholders – in the market. ICVCM’s The Core Carbon Principles (CCPs) define what high integrity carbon credits should look like: ensuring that new carbon projects have robust social and environmental safeguards, operate with the free, prior and informed consent and are transparent about how they share benefits. I welcome the UK government’s proposal to endorse the use of CCP-labelled credits and encourage other governments to do the same. This will provide clarity on what high integrity means to enable the market to scale to accelerate climate action and deliver positive environmental and social outcomes at the local level.

    Notes to editors

    The 6 integrity principles being consulted on are: 

    • suppliers should ensure credits meet recognised high integrity criteria that ensure credits deliver environmental benefits  
    • buyers should measure and disclose the planned use of credits as part of sustainability reporting 
    • users should consider how credits feed into wider transition plans that align with the 1.5°C goal of the Paris Agreement 
    • claims involving the use of credits should accurately communicate an organisation or product’s overall environmental impact, including by using appropriate and accurate terminology 
    • market participants should cooperate with others to support the growth of high integrity markets
    • credits should only be used in addition to ambitious climate action within value chains

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to top line results in Lilly press release about their phase 3 ACHIEVE-1 trial of their oral GLP-1 (orforglipron) and weight loss efficacy, and safety

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists comment on phase 3 trial results of Lilly’s oral GLP-1 (Orforflipron). 

    Prof Naveed Sattar, Professor of Cardiometabolic Medicine/Honorary Consultant, University of Glasgow, said:

    “These are important results.  Having new oral agents that lower glucose but also meaningfully lower weight well beyond levels seen with most existing diabetes therapies is critical to future type 2 diabetes care. This because recent research has shown excess weight not only leads to type 2 diabetes in the first place in many but that it is also a major contributor to many of its associated complications. Intentional weight loss also often helps improve patients quality of life.  Of course, one caveat is that we do not know the effects of this newer therapy on cardiovascular outcomes but this will be forthcoming in future trials.  It is also good to hear about the safety profile of these new oral GLP-1RA drugs – especially the liver results – and it will be good to see the data in a full publication in due course.”

    Lilly press release (there is no paper): https://investor.lilly.com/news-releases/news-release-details/lillys-oral-glp-1-orforglipron-demonstrated-statistically

    Declared interests

    Prof Naveed Sattar: “NS has consulted for and/or received speaker honoraria from Abbott Laboratories, AbbVie, Afimmune, Amgen, AstraZeneca, Boehringer Ingelheim, Carmot Therapeutics, Eli Lilly, GlaxoSmithKline, Hanmi Pharmaceuticals, Janssen, Menarini-Ricerche, Merck Sharp & Dohme, Metsera, Novartis, Novo Nordisk, Pfizer, Sanofi, and Roche; and received grant support paid to his University from AstraZeneca, Boehringer Ingelheim, Novartis, and Roche.  No shares in any medical areas.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Low-income families saved £886,000 on water bills through Portsmouth City Council and Southern Water partnership

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Around £886,000 is set to be cut from the bills of the most vulnerable people in Portsmouth, thanks to a partnership between Portsmouth City Council and Southern Water.

    The council has provided Southern Water with the details of just over 5,000 residents on low incomes or in receipt of benefits who have been found to be eligible for a discount on their bills, as part of a data sharing agreement to save people money.

    All Portsmouth customers who qualify for the cheaper Essentials tariff payment scheme will automatically be moved across. They will have their bills reduced by an average of £177 a year, and Southern Water will be writing to those who have been switched.

    The tariff is designed to help customers who are struggling to pay by providing a discount of at least 45% for low-income households in receipt of Council Tax Support.

    It’s part of Portsmouth City Council’s ongoing work to support residents with the cost of living, which includes:

    • Awarding £245,200 to 1,414 low-income pensioner households through our one-off Portsmouth Older Persons’ Energy Payment scheme
    • Hardship payments for daily costs like food and energy bills through the UK Government-funded Household Support Fund, which is extended for another 12 months.
    • The local Council Tax Support Scheme for households eligible for a discount
    • Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) programme, currently running over Easter, and extended by another 12 months
    • The council’s cost of living hub and phone number, offering free money advice for all
    • Switched on Portsmouth providing free energy and money saving advice

    Council Leader Cllr Steve Pitt said:

    “We are committed to exploring every avenue possible to save Portsmouth residents money, because rising costs continue to impact people’s quality of life.

    “Through this proactive partnership with Southern Water, we have been able to help another 5,000 save a collective £886,000, which is a really significant individual saving.

    “We will be offering more one-off payment schemes to help the most vulnerable to pay for bills and food, and I would urge anyone who needs advice and support around money to call our cost of living hub.”

    Nicky Chitty, Southern Water’s affordability and vulnerability lead, said:

    “We are delighted to be working together with colleagues at Portsmouth so that no households miss out on the support they may be entitled to.

    “By joining our Essentials tariff, these customers will automatically receive a minimum discount of 45% off their bills.”

    The council will continue to pass on the details of any residents that may be eligible for the Essentials tariff to Southern Water.

    The partnership is subject to strict rules around personal data and security and the information shared is solely for the purpose of benefiting eligible residents.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two men have been jailed for murdering a man in Croydon

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Two men have been jailed for a combined total of more than 50 years for the murder of a man in Croydon as detectives continue appeal for the public’s help to locate an outstanding suspect.

    David Walcott, 35 (18.08.89) of Turle Road, Norbury and Rammon Mali, 33 (08.12.91) of Valley Road, Croydon, were each sentenced on Thursday, 17 April at the Old Bailey to 27 years’ imprisonment for the murder of Rijkaard Siafa.

    They were convicted of his murder on Wednesday, 26 February at the same court, following a five-week trial.

    A murder investigation was launched after police were called to reports of a man stabbed in Fellmongers Yard, Croydon on Friday, 12 April 2024.

    A number of members of the public attempted to provide first aid, before police, London Ambulance Service and London’s Air Ambulance arrived at the scene. Sadly, despite their efforts, Rijkaard died at the scene only 30 minutes later.

    In court, Walcott and Mali claimed that they were present, but were not the ones who stabbed Rijkaard. However, they were unanimously found guilty of murder by the jury.

    Hassanatu Bah, Rijkaard mother, said:

    “Anyone who knew Rijkaard would tell you how truly special he was. He had a soul so gentle and a heart so kind that his love and care touched everyone around him. His dreams were big, his zest for life unmatched. He was driven by hope and ambition, and his future was filled with endless possibilities – dreams that were cruelly stolen from him.

    “But let me assure you, Rijkaard’s story doesn’t end here. I will carry his torch for as long as I live. Everything he dreamed of, everything he wanted to accomplish, I would do my best to see it through. His name will not be forgotten.”

    The court heard that on the day of the murder Rijkaard had been at a friend’s flat near Fellmongers Yard, before leaving to meet his partner. Only a few minutes after leaving the flat, he had been stabbed 13 times.

    After the attack, Walcott and Mali immediately fled the scene. They then went to a pub on nearby Katharine Street, where they ordered three pints of beer.

    As part of the investigation, officers viewed more than 100 hours of CCTV and were subsequently able to identify both Walcott and Mali.

    A fast-paced manhunt was launched and a few days’ later officers were able to track Walcott to an address on Lewin Road, SW16. He was arrested on Friday, 19 April 2024 and charged the following day.

    Mali fled the country on Tuesday, 16 April 2024. He was arrested at Gatwick Airport upon his return on Sunday, 5 May 2024 and charged the following day.

    Detective Chief Inspector Samantha Townsend, from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, said:

    “Our thoughts very much remain with Rijkaard’s family and friends, who had to re-live the last traumatic moments of his young life during the trial after the defendants failed to take responsibility for their actions.

    “The defendants acted together, as a team. They had been looking for Rijkaard during the afternoon of Friday, 12 April and when they found him, they viciously attacked him.

    “It’s clear Walcott and Mali are dangerous and unpredictable individuals and I am relieved they will remain behind bars for a significant period of time.

    “I am extremely grateful to those who have come forward so far, however Jordan Vincent remains wanted for the murder of Rijkaard Siafa and my team remains determined to bring all of those responsible to justice.

    “I am appealing to people to dig deep into their consciences and assist us with the whereabouts of Jordan Vincent. There is a £10,000 reward available for information which leads to his arrest and conviction. If you have any information, no matter how insignificant you may think it is – please get in contact, it could be crucial.”

    Information, images or footage can be provided at Public Portal – https://mipp.police.uk/operation/01MPS24W40-PO1

    Alternatively, anyone who has information or footage can call 0208 721 4961 referencing Op Biscot. To remain 100 per cent anonymous call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit Crimestoppers-uk.org.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Temporary closure of Shanklin Cliff Lift for improvement works 17 April 2025 Temporary closure of Shanklin Cliff Lift for improvement works

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    The Shanklin Cliff Lift will be temporarily closed from 23 to 25 April as part of the Isle of Wight Council’s ongoing commitment to maintaining and improving this vital facility for the community.

    The closure is necessary to erect scaffolding, a process expected to take three days.

    Following this, work will begin on replacing the downstairs canopy, a significant upgrade that will involve additional scaffolding and securing the surrounding area to ensure the lift remains operational during the works.

    The entire project is anticipated to take five to six weeks. During this period, the lift will continue to serve the community, minimising disruption and maintaining accessibility.

    Alex Minns, service director for community regeneration and economy, said the works had been carefully timed to occur outside of Easter and the peak season.

    He added: “We understand the importance of the Shanklin Cliff Lift to both residents and visitors.

    “This project underscores our dedication to preserving and improving the lift, ensuring it remains a safe and reliable resource for all. We appreciate the community’s patience and understanding as we carry out these necessary improvements.”

    The lift has been a key feature of Shanklin since its first construction in the 1890s. The current lift, built in 1958, continues to serve residents and visitors, offering a convenient route between the town and the beach.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: OSCE Enhances K-9 Training for Kyrgyz Border Security

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

    Headline: OSCE Enhances K-9 Training for Kyrgyz Border Security

    Kyrgyz border officers take part in K9 training to boost service dog handling skills for border security, Luban,18 March 2025. (OSCE) Photo details

    Luban, Poland / Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan | 18 March 2025 – Six canine instructors from the Border Service of the State Committee for National Security of the Kyrgyz Republic have completed a specialized training course on detecting explosives, weapons, and ammunition, held from 4 February to 18 March 2025 in Luban, Poland.Organized by the Specialized Training Centre of the Polish Border Guard Service in co-operation with the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek, the training is part of the OSCE’s ongoing support to strengthen Kyrgyzstan’s border security and counter the illegal spread of small arms and light weapons (SALW).Participants gained advanced skills in assessing service dogs, improving handler techniques, canine health and safety, training planning, and dog psychology. Upon passing final exams, the instructors received international certification, boosting national capacity to train future K-9 units.“This training is a significant step in strengthening our capacity to tackle the growing threats posed by the illegal spread of SALW and explosives,” said Colonel Taalaibek Tazhibaev, Deputy Head of the Border Service.“By empowering K-9 specialists to detect and neutralize threats, we are strengthening security and promoting regional stability,” added Ms. Ewa Klimuk, OSCE ExB Project Manager.The initiative highlights the OSCE’s long-term partnership with Kyrgyzstan and its commitment to regional peace and security through capacity-building and international co-operation.
    Contacts
    Chyngyz Zhanybekov
    National Press and Public Information Officer
    Office of Head of Mission
    OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek
    6, Ryskulova str.
    720001
    Kyrgyzstan
    Office: +996 312 61 24 45

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Change of British High Commissioner to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean: Simon Mustard

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Change of British High Commissioner to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean: Simon Mustard

    Mr Simon Mustard has been appointed British High Commissioner to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean. He will take up his appointment during May 2025.

    Simon Mustard

    Mr Simon Mustard has been appointed British High Commissioner to Barbados, and non-resident High Commissioner to Antigua and Barbuda, the Commonwealth of Dominica, Grenada, the Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

    Simon will succeed Mr Scott Furssedonn-Wood MVO, who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment.

    Mr Mustard will take up his appointment during May 2025.

    Curriculum vitae

    Full name: Simon Mustard

    Year Role
    2021 to 2025 FCDO, Director East/Southern Africa
    2019 to 2021 Freetown, British High Commissioner
    2017 to 2019 FCO, Head, Southern and Central Africa Department and Special Envoy to African Great Lakes Region
    2016 Lilongwe, British High Commissioner
    2013 to 2016 Amman, Deputy Head of Mission
    2011 to 2013 FCO, Head, Country-Casework Team and Deputy Head of Consular Assistance, Consular Directorate
    2009 to 2011 FCO, Head, Regional Issues Team, Counter-Proliferation Department
    2008 to 2009 FCO, Private Secretary to Minister of State, and also to the Secretary of State
    2005 to 2008 Washington, Policy Lead on Counter-Terrorism and Strategic Threats
    2002 to 2004 Belmopan, Third Secretary (Political)
    2000 to 2002 FCO, Desk Officer, Environment Policy Department
    1994 to 2000 Police Officer, Lothian and Borders Police

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Recreational fishery for bluefin tuna 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Recreational fishery for bluefin tuna 2025

    Marine Management Organisation (MMO) today opened applications for an east Atlantic bluefin tuna catch and release recreational fishery (CRRF) in 2025 in English waters.

    Approximately 140 vessels could be issued permits to operate in the CRRF, Plans for the 2025 Bluefin tuna (BFT) catch and release recreational fisheries (CRRF) within UK waters, which is scheduled to open from mid-July and will run until the end of November 2025. 

    To be eligible for a permit, interested stakeholders must follow the guidance and apply here before the closing date of 18 May.

    Successful applicants must comply and report their fishing activity in line with the legislation.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More than half a million more people in line for savings boost

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    More than half a million more people in line for savings boost

    Thousands more are eligible to open a Help to Save account.

    • Government’s Help to Save scheme now open to 550,000 more people to help with cost of living
    • Those saving £50 a month can expect £25 Government top-up, putting more money in people’s pockets
    • Part of Government’s mission to grow the economy and deliver on our Plan for Change

    More than half a million more UK savers are in line for Government bonuses worth up to £25 a month to boost their cash pots and help ease rises in the cost of living, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has announced today.

    As part of the Government’s mission to grow the economy and improve lives in every corner of the UK and to deliver its Plan for Change, Help to Save is now open to anyone working and receiving Universal Credit – rewarding 550,000 more people.

    Its extension to April 2027 means more can benefit from the scheme, which has paid out millions of pounds in bonuses to more than 500,000 people since Help to Save was launched in 2018.

    This is evidence of the Government backing the most vulnerable in society with 93% of savers paying in the maximum £50 every month to their Help to Save account.

    An account can be set up in less than 5 minutes and easily managed through GOV.UK or the HMRC app, making it accessible to people throughout the UK.

    Savers who deposit the maximum amount of £2,400 over four years will receive a bonus totalling £1,200 into their bank accounts, with payments coming at the end of the second and final year.

    Emma Reynolds, Economic Secretary to the Treasury, said:

    Security for working people is at the heart of our Plan for Change.

    We want more people to have a bit in the kitty for a rainy day, which is why we are giving hundreds of thousands more working families on tight budgets access to this support.

    Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Director General for Customer Services, said: 

    Thousands of customers have already benefitted from Help to Save and many more are now eligible to get a great return of 50% on top of their savings, no matter how little you can save each month. Go online or via the HMRC app to find out more and apply today.

    Savers can deposit between £1 and £50 each month earning an extra 50 pence for every £1 saved, with bonuses paid in the second and fourth years of the account being opened. The bonus payment applies to the highest amount saved within the period.

    Nearly 18,500 people opened a Help to Save account via the HMRC app in 2024. App users have access to their savings account at their fingertips. They can view their account, check their balance and bonus details, and make a deposit via debit card, bank transfer or standing order.

    Money can be withdrawn at any time, although this may affect the 50% bonus payments.

    Michelle Highman, Chief Executive of The Money Charity, said:

    We are really pleased to see the Help to Save scheme extended and made available to more people. It’s a brilliant way for people to start to save and to build their financial resilience and futures. Saving even just a little each month will help, and the added 50% bonus payment from the Government means that if you are eligible, then it’s a great place to boost your savings.

    Find out more about Help to Save at GOV.UK.

    Further Information

    1. Latest statistics on Help to Save up to April 2024 were released in September 2024
    Number of Accounts Opened to end-April 2024 Total value of deposits
    UK Total 516,800 £492,539,000
    England 439,900 £420,318,000
    North East 22,750 £20,668,000
    North West 67,650 £63,479,000
    Yorkshire and The Humber 49,600 £47,043,000
    East Midlands 43,000 £41,219,000
    West Midlands 49,550 £46,130,000
    East of England 44,900 £43,176,000
    London 55,550 £52,935,000
    South East 60,500 £57,563,000
    South West 46,400 £48,106,000
    Wales 24,850 £23,683,000
    Scotland 36,050 £33,584,000
    Northern Ireland 15,650 £14,700,000

    Help to Save was launched in September 2018 and was due to end in September 2023. It was extended to April 2025 and has now been extended until April 2027.

    Previous eligibility criteria meant savers had to be in receipt of Tax Credits or Universal Credit and be earning at least 16 hours a week at National Living Wage.

    How the bonus payments work:

    • after the first 2 years, customers will get a first bonus if they have been using their account to save. This bonus will be 50% of the highest balance saved.
    • after 4 years, they will get a final bonus if they continue to save. This bonus will be 50% of the difference between 2 amounts:
      • the highest balance saved in the first 2 years (years 1 and 2)
      • the highest balance saved in the last 2 years (years 3 and 4)
    • if their highest balance does not increase, they will not earn a final bonus.
    • the bonus is paid into their bank account, not their Help to Save account.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Building capacity to combat illicit cultural heritage trafficking with the EuroMed Justice Project

    Source: Eurojust

    The TAF activity, which was organised upon request from Egyptian and Cypriot authorities, brought together 35 participants from Algeria, Belgium, Cyprus, Egypt, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Libya, Morocco, Palestine*, Switzerland and the United Kingdom to share strategies and best practices in combating the illicit trade. The activity was officially opened and attended by the Ambassador of Cyprus to Egypt, the Deputy Head of the European Delegation in Cairo and high level representatives from Egypt. The Country representatives shared case studies and success stories, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of their efforts to protect cultural heritage.

    The illicit trafficking of cultural goods has become a lucrative business for organised crime. It can be used for money laundering, sanctions evasion, and terrorism financing, and comes with a devastating cost. To combat this, the TAF activity facilitated cooperation and knowledge-sharing among stakeholders.

    In addition to the sharing of case studies and success stories, the participants also gained insights from presentations delivered by the representative of the Eurojust Anti-Trafficking Team, as well as several international organizations (Council of Europe, UNICRI, and UNODC). Bilateral meetings were also arranged alongside the main activity.

    By sharing knowledge and expertise, the gathering has set the stage for enhanced cooperation and collaboration to combat illicit cultural heritage trafficking.

    The EuroMed Justice project aims to develop sustainable cooperation mechanisms for cross-border judicial cooperation in criminal matters between Member States of the European Union and the South Partner Countries. It organises TAF activities upon request of participating authorities in order to provide tailored support to activities and actions.

    *This designation shall not be construed as recognition of a State of Palestine and is without prejudice to the individual positions of the Member States on this issue.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Curtain Raiser: India Steel 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Curtain Raiser: India Steel 2025

    “India set to host the largest international steel event in Mumbai from April 24–26, 2025”

    Hon’ble Prime Minister to inaugurate the flagship event of Steel Industry

    Posted On: 17 APR 2025 3:14PM by PIB Delhi

    The India Steel 2025 is set to take place from *24 April to 26 April, 2025*, at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai. This 6th edition of the biennial international exhibition and conference will bring together leading stakeholders from across the global steel value chain to discuss the future trajectory of the sector, with a sharp focus on growth, sustainability, resilience, and innovation.

    India is on a trajectory to achieve a production capacity of 300 million tonnes and a per capita consumption of 160 kg by 2030, in line with the National Steel Policy.  Keeping in view this  ambitious growth in the steel sector, the conference is being organised to unlock new opportunities for inter-state and international collaboration, facilitate knowledge exchange, and showcase India’s policy reforms and infrastructure initiatives aimed at enhancing the ease of doing business across the steel value chain.

    The Hon’ble Prime Minister of India will address  the premier Steel Industry event of the country  on 24th April 2025 through Video conferencing , in the esteemed presence of dignitaries including  Hon’ble Minister of Steel and Heavy Industries Shri H. D. Kumaraswamy, Hon’ble Minister of State for Steel and Heavy Industries Shri Bhupathi Raju Srinivasa Varma, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra Shri Devendra Phadnavis  and Hon’ble Chief Minister of Chattisgarh Shri Vishu Deo Sai. 

    The conference will see presence of high-level participation from various Central Ministries and States including Chief Ministers and Union Ministers indicating the critical importance of Steel as an important clog in the wheel of Atmanirbhar Bharat.  Among those who will grace the program with their presence include Union Ministers, Hon’ble Minister of Steel and Heavy Industries Shri H. D. Kumaraswamy, Minister of Commerce and Industry Shri Piyush Goyal, Hon’ble Minister of Railways Shri. Ashwini Vaishnaw, Hon’ble Minister of New & Renewable Energy and Consumer Affairs Shri Pralhad Venkatesh Joshi, Hon’ble Minister of Mines Shri G. Kishan Reddy , Hon’ble Minister of State for Steel and Heavy Industries Shri Bhupathi Raju Srinivasa Varma,  Hon’ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Shri Vishnu Deo Sai  and Hon’ble Chief Minister of Odisha, Shri Mohan Charan Majhi.  They  will preside over key sessions of the conference, reflecting the multi-sectoral relevance of steel in India’s economic and industrial strategy.

    Senior officials of the Government of India, including Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Secretary, Ministry of Steel and Secretary, Ministry of Coal will also chair key sessions during the event.

     The event will also have a presence of global Industry leaders and senior Foreign dignitaries leading  high-level  delegations, including the Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation, Ambassadors of Australia, Mozambique, and Mongolia, reflecting the deepening international engagement and strategic cooperation in the steel sector.

    Key highlights of the International Conference-cum-Exhibition includes:

    – Exhibition and Innovation Showcase: Displaying cutting-edge technologies and advancements in the steel industry.

    – Roundtable Conferences: Discussions on sector-specific topics, international collaboration, and emerging trends including CEOs roundtable and Sectoral roundtables.

    – Reverse Buyer-Seller Meet (RBSM): Facilitating trade opportunities and fostering new business engagements.

    – International Engagement: Country specific sessions involving key steel-producing nations, including the South Korea, Sweden, Australia, and Mongolia. These discussions will explore joint research, technology transfer, and resilient supply chains to de-risk India’s steel production and drive global competitiveness.

    The event will also focus on themes like augmenting domestic consumption, showcasing futuristic steel applications, and fostering global partnerships

    With more than 12,000 business visitors, 250 exhibitors, and 1,200 conference delegates representing various sectors, Government departments, State Governments, country delegations, and domestic and international buyers from India and abroad, the conference would be one of the biggest Steel event globally.

    *********

    TPJ/NJ

    (Release ID: 2122393) Visitor Counter : 36

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ceremony to mark the 70th anniversary of Germany joining NATO

    Source: NATO

    On Monday, 28 April 2025, a ceremony to mark the 70th anniversary of Germany’s accession to NATO will take place at NATO Headquarters in Brussels.

    Media advisory

    14:00 (CEST)  Wreath-laying by the NATO Secretary General and the German Federal President.   

    14:45 (CEST)  Ceremony to mark the 70th anniversary of Germany’s accession to NATO.
     

    Media coverage

    • Media representatives with annual accreditation to NATO can cover the event in person. Additionally, media without annual accreditation who are interested in covering the event can request ad-hoc accreditation but space is very limited. To do so, please contact NATO Accreditations no later than 16h00 on 23 April CEST.
    • A detailed programme will be circulated closer to the event.
    • The ceremony will be streamed live on the NATO website, and it will be available via EBU exchange. A transcript of the Secretary General’s remarks, as well as photographs, will be published on the NATO website.

    For more information: 

    Contact the NATO Press Office

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: MGCS Project Company GmbH (MPC) established in Cologne

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: MGCS Project Company GmbH (MPC) established in Cologne

    Monday, 14 April 2025 – The next step has now been taken in the Franco-German armaments project Main Ground Combat System (MGCS). On the basis of the approval by the German Federal Cartel Office, KNDS Deutschland, KNDS France, Rheinmetall Landsysteme and Thales legally incorporated the ‘MGCS Project Company GmbH (MPC)’ on 10 April 2025 in Cologne. Dipl. Ing. Dipl. Wirt. Ing. and Colonel (G.S. German Armed Forces Reserve) Stefan Gramolla was appointed managing director.

    The founding of the company marks a further significant step in the MGCS project. After the upcoming negotiation of a contract with the Federal Office for Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw), which is acting on behalf of the two nations through a Franco-German Combined Project Team (CPT), this project company will be responsible for implementing the next phase of the MGCS programme as the industrial prime contractor. In particular, it will consolidate the concept and the main technological pillars of the system.

    Launched at the initiative of the French and German governments, the MGCS project aims to replace the Leopard 2 and Leclerc main battle tanks with a multi-platform ground combat system by 2040.

    About KNDS:

    KNDS is the result of the association of Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) and Nexter, two of the leading European manufacturers of military land systems based in Germany and France.

    KNDS forms a Group of more than 10,000 employees, with a 2024 turnover of 3.8 billion euro, an order backlog of around 23.5 billion euro and incoming orders of 11.2 billion euro. The range of its products includes main battle tanks, armored vehicles, artillery systems, weapons systems, ammunition, robotics, military bridges, customer services, battle management systems, training solutions, protection solutions and a wide range of equipment.

    The formation of KNDS represents the beginning of consolidation in land defense systems industry in Europe. The strategic alliance between KMW (now KNDS Deutschland) and Nexter (now KNDS France) enhances both groups’ competitiveness and international positions, as well as their ability to meet the needs of their respective national army. In addition, it offers to its European and NATO customers the opportunity of increased standardization and interoperability for their defense equipment, with a dependable industrial base.

    KNDS headquarters are based in Amsterdam.

    Press contact:

    guillem.monsonis@knds.fr

    About Rheinmetall:

    Rheinmetall AG of Duesseldorf, a listed company, is a leading international defence contractor and a driver of future-oriented technological and industrial innovation in civil markets. With over 31,000 employees and 171 sites worldwide, Rheinmetall generated sales of €9.8 billion in 2024. With its technologies, products and systems, the company creates the indispensable basis for peace, freedom and sustainable development: security. Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH is part of the Rheinmetall Division Vehicle Systems Europe and is one of the leading land system manufacturers.

    Media contact:

    oliver.hoffmann@rheinmetall.com

    About Thales:

    Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies for the Defence, Aerospace, and Cyber & Digital sectors. Its portfolio of innovative products and services addresses several major challenges: sovereignty, security, sustainability and inclusion.

    The Group invests more than €4 billion per year in Research & Development in key areas, particularly for critical environments, such as Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum and cloud technologies.

    Thales has more than 83,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2024, the Group generated sales of €20.6 billion.

    Media contact:

    camille.heck@thalesgroup.com

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Climate, Peace, and Security in the Great Lakes Region – Joint Security Council Media Stakeout

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Joint media stakeout by the Security Council members that have joined the Joint Pledges on Climate, Peace and Security (Denmark, France, Greece, Guyana, Panama, the Republic of Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, and the United Kingdom) on Climate, Peace, and Security in the Great Lakes Region.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EzeRKuInnik

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study on a three-sigma probability event of biological activity outside our solar system

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters looks at the probability of biological activity on the K2-18 b exoplanet.

    Dr David Clements, Astrophysicist, Imperial College London, said:

    “This is really interesting stuff and, while it does not yet represent a clear detection of Dimethyl Sulfide and Dimethyl Disulfide, it is a step in the right direction.

    “To get to a solid claim for the existence of life on this planet we’d need to have a solid detection, >5 sigma, a clear demonstration that this is a biomarker and not some other molecular species masquerading as a biomarker, and then a clear understanding that there is no non-biological way of producing the biomarker molecule in the amount seen. Planetary atmospheres are complicated and difficult to understand, especially with the limited information we get from a planet 124 light years away, so there will almost always be some provisos and uncertainties about interpretation, but more and better data will help, and the first step is getting a detection to >5 sigma so that we can be sure that something interesting is there.”

     

    Dr Stephen Burgess, group leader at the University of Cambridge, said:

    “Most scientific experiments have some element of uncertainty. This could be sampling uncertainty – maybe we only have a small number of observations. Or it could be measurement error – maybe our measurements are noisy. If we picked 5 random men and 5 random women from the street, sometimes we will find that the men are taller on average than the women, but occasionally we will find that the women are taller on average than the men. If we want to conclude that men are typically taller than women, we need to collect enough data to be confident that the differences we observe are genuine differences, and not just chance fluctuations. The more data that we collect, the more certain we can be of this. “Three-sigma” is a threshold saying that differences observed in the experiment are sufficiently notable that we can exclude the possibility of a chance finding except in rare cases – equivalent in rarity to tossing a coin 10 times and getting the same result each time. “Five-sigma” is a stricter threshold – equivalent to tossing a coin 20 times in a row and getting the same result each time. It’s still possible that we were simply lucky – and the more data that we look at, the greater the chances of making an observation that is purely a chance finding. But a five-sigma finding is one that would only arise purely by chance exceptionally rarely, and so we can be very confident that this observation isn’t just a chance finding. A separate question to uncertainty is bias – it is possible that there is some flaw with the experiment. This is not something that can be ruled out by statistics. A “five-sigma” finding is therefore exceptionally unlikely to arise due to chance alone: it is either a true result or an experimental error.”

    ‘New Constraints on DMS and DMDS in the Atmosphere of K2-18 b from JWST MIRI’ by Nikku Madhusudhan et al. has been published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters

    Declared interests

    Dr Stephen Burgess: I am employed at the same university as the lead author of this paper. However, I do not know them personally or professionally.

    For all other experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Change of British High Commissioner to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Change of British High Commissioner to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean

    Mr Simon Mustard has been appointed British High Commissioner to Barbados, and non-resident High Commissioner to Antigua and Barbuda, the Commonwealth of Dominica, Grenada, the Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in succession to Mr Scott Furssedonn-Wood MVO who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment.

    Simon Mustard

    Mr Simon Mustard has been appointed British High Commissioner to Barbados, and non-resident High Commissioner to Antigua and Barbuda, the Commonwealth of Dominica, Grenada, the Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in succession to Mr Scott Furssedonn-Wood MVO who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment.

    Mr Mustard will take up his appointment during May 2025.

    Curriculum vitae

    Full name: Simon Mustard

    Year Role
    2021 to 2025 FCDO, Director East/Southern Africa
    2019 to 2021 Freetown, British High Commissioner
    2017 to 2019 FCO, Head, Southern and Central Africa Department and Special Envoy to African Great Lakes Region
    2016 Lilongwe, British High Commissioner
    2013 to 2016 Amman, Deputy Head of Mission
    2011 to 2013 FCO, Head, Country-Casework Team and Deputy Head of Consular Assistance, Consular Directorate
    2009 to 2011 FCO, Head, Regional Issues Team, Counter-Proliferation Department
    2008 to 2009 FCO, Private Secretary to Minister of State, and also to the Secretary of State
    2005 to 2008 Washington, Policy Lead on Counter-Terrorism and Strategic Threats
    2002 to 2004 Belmopan, Third Secretary (Political)
    2000 to 2002 FCO, Desk Officer, Environment Policy Department
    1994 to 2000 Police Officer, Lothian and Borders Police

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Correction: UAB „Atsinaujinančios energetikos investicijos“ publishes audited consolidated and separate annual financial statements for 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    UAB “Atsinaujinančios energetikos investicijos” (the Company) publishes its audited annual consolidated and separate financial statements for 2024 together with Company’s and Group‘s annual report for 2024

    Financial results

    The Company’s objective is to earn a return for the Company’s investors from investments in renewable energy infrastructure facilities and related assets. The main financial indicators for the period were:

    • As at 31 December 2024, the Company’s total assets were EUR 189,795 thousand, total equity was EUR 100,476 thousand, and total liabilities were EUR 89,319 thousand.
    • As at 31 December 2024, the Company’s investment assets at fair value through profit or loss were EUR 159,902 thousand, which compared to 31 December 2023, decreased by EUR 20,158 thousand or 11.20%. The decline in fair value of the investment portfolio was mainly driven by the results of the independent annual valuation of the Company’s shares. Specifically, the value of the Company’s solar assets in Poland primarily decreased due to electricity price curve forecasts being significantly lower than the electricity price curve utilised in the Company’s valuation in the fourth quarter of 2023.
    • From January to December 2024, the Company reported a comprehensive loss of EUR 14,824 thousand, primarily attributed to the negative fair value change in the investment portfolio resulting from the independent annual valuation of the Company’s shares.

    Review of performance and development

    • In December 2024, the Company successfully divested its 65.5 MW operating solar portfolio in Poland, Energy Solar Projekty sp. z o.o. This divestment marks the Company’s first significant exit in its core portfolio.
    • The construction of the 67.8 MW total capacity portfolio for PV Energy Projects sp. z o.o. is nearing completion. As of the fourth quarter of 2024, 44.8 MW of this capacity is operational, with a Commercial Operation Date (COD) anticipated for September 2025.
    • The construction of the PL SUN sp. z o.o. portfolio, with a total capacity of 114.7 MW, is progressing through two distinct development phases. The first phase, encompassing 66.6 MW, saw substantial completion in the second quarter of 2024, with 26.4 MW energized by the close of the fourth quarter. The remaining capacity of 40.2 MW is scheduled to be energized by the second quarter of 2025. Construction on the second phase, totalling 48.1 MW, commenced in the fourth quarter of 2024, with energization expected by the fourth quarter of 2025.
    • The Company holds 25% of shares of UAB Žaliosios investicijos, which manages the 185.5 MW portfolio, consisting of 34 wind turbines in Lithuania. The energy production license for the Anykščiai wind farm was secured in August 2024, and licenses for the Jonava and Rokiškis wind farms are anticipated in the second quarter of 2025.
    • The development permit for a hybrid power plant with a capacity of 100 MW of wind and 70 MW of solar, being developed by UAB Ekoelektra, has been granted. The technical design project has been initiated and submitted to the Transmission System Operator (Lidgrid) for coordination, ensuring adherence to grid requirements for effective integration into the national electricity network.
    • UAB JTPG submitted the grid connection technical project for a 70 MW solar PV project to Litgrid for approval in the third quarter of 2024, marking a significant step in the project’s development.
    • The development permit for a hybrid power plant developed by UAB KNT Holding, which includes 390 MW of wind, 250 MW of solar, and a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) of 50 MW / 200 MWh, has also been granted. The technical design project has been initiated and submitted to the Lidgrid for coordination.
    • For the 112 MW wind park development project in Latvia managed by Zala Elektriba SIA, the grid connection deadline was extended in the third quarter of 2024, with balance of plant works commencing in the fourth quarter of 2024.

    Shareholders’ meeting

    According to the Law on Companies of Republic of Lithuania, the annual financial statements prepared by the Management are authorised by the General Shareholders’ meeting. The shareholders hold the power to not approve the annual financial statements and have the right to request new financial statements to be prepared. 

    The shareholders of the Company will vote on approving the Group‘s and Company’s 2024 financial statements at a shareholders’ meeting to be held on 30 April 2025. The meeting will also consider a proposal for the distribution of profits. The proposed profit allocation is as follows:

    Article Thousand, EUR
    Retained earnings (loss) – at the beginning of financial year 31,450
    Comprehensive income (loss) for the reporting period – net profit for the current year* (14,824)
    Profit transfer to the legal reserve (250)
    Retained earnings (loss) – at the end of financial year 16,376
    Profit distribution:  
    Profit transfer to the legal reserve –
    Profit transfer to other reserves –
    Profit to be paid as dividends –
    Retained earnings (loss) at the end of the financial year for 2024 and previous financial periods 16,376

    * The preliminary announcement contained an inaccuracy regarding the Company’s total losses for the year 2024

    Contact person for further information:
    Mantas Auruškevičius
    Manager of the Investment Company
    Mantas.Auruskevicius@lordslb.lt 

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ribbon cutting marks completion of Elmbrook School refurbishment

    Source: City of Leicester

    WORK is now complete on a £5.5million refurbishment project at Elmbrook School in Leicester.

    City Mayor Peter Soulsby and assistant city mayor for education, Cllr Elaine Pantling, joined headteacher Nicola Anderson at the site on Nether Hall Road last week for the official opening of the refurbished school.

    Since contractors moved onto site in May 2023, the old building that formerly housed the Nether Hall special school has been fully refurbished, creating a new home for pupils previously based at the Phoenix Centre pupil referral unit at Thurnby Lodge.

    Internal remodelling has created modern classrooms and new food tech and laboratory space, while outside the multi-use games area has been improved, roofs have been replaced and new perimeter fencing installed.

    The eco-friendly building now incorporates a range of energy efficiency measures, including increased levels of insulation, electric heating, passive ventilation, low energy LED lighting, and low water usage toilets and taps.

    Students were able to move into the newly renamed Elmbrook School in September 2024 – but the City Mayor’s visit last week was an opportunity for a formal opening ceremony.

    “The completion of this scheme demonstrates our commitment to providing modern, fit-for-purpose facilities that will help all our children get the most out of school and achieve their full potential,” said City Mayor Peter Soulsby.

    “I’m very pleased that this refurbished building now provides the optimal surroundings for Elmbrook’s pupils to feel safe and supported while they learn.”

    Head teacher Nicola Anderson said: “We are absolutely delighted to have finally moved into our new school.

    “The children attending Elmbrook School have not always had positive experiences of education, and we are so pleased that our fabulous new facilities show how much we value them. We spent many hours with Stepnells, and the property team, fine-tuning the design to ensure we have a school we can all be proud of, and that enriches the educational experience our pupils receive now and into the future.”

    Assistant city mayor Cllr Elaine Pantling, who leads on education, added: “Elmbrook School fulfils a key role in supporting young people to return to mainstream education, so I’m really pleased that we have been able to invest in this programme of improvements and create a modern learning environment that will give these children the second chance they deserve.”

    Elmbrook School’s refurbishment was funded through Leicester City Council’s capital programme and delivered by contractors Stepnell.

    The school provides short or long-term placements for children aged 5-11 who have been permanently excluded or are at risk of exclusion from mainstream education.

    Focused intervention and intensive support provided by staff at the school offers children a chance to flourish in a nurturing, learning environment, where they gain strategies that prepare them for a successful return to their old school or a transition to a new school placement.

    ends

    Picture caption: City mayor Peter Soulsby and assistant city mayor Cllr Elaine Pantling (second left) join headteacher Nicola Anderson (left) and co-headteacher Zaheera Omar-Davies to open the refurbished school building on Nether Hall Road.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Owner of North London tyre fitters banned for 10 years after inflating turnover to secure maximum-value Covid loan

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Owner of North London tyre fitters banned for 10 years after inflating turnover to secure maximum-value Covid loan

    Decade-long ban for director who abused Bounce Back Loan Scheme

    • Shkelzen Gashi overstated his Smart Tyres Services Ltd company’s turnover by almost double to secure a £50,000 Bounce Back Loan, the most businesses were allowed under the scheme 

    • Smart Tyres was entitled to a loan of £33,600 but ended up with £50,000 because of Gashi’s false declaration 

    • Gashi has now been disqualified as a company director for a decade following Insolvency Service investigations 

    The owner of a North London tyre shop has been banned as a director for 10 years after overstating his company’s turnover to secure a maximum-value Covid loan. 

    Shkelzen Gashi ran Smart Tyres Services Ltd from his address on Harringay Road from 2015 to 2022. 

    The 53-year-old claimed his company’s turnover was £250,000 when he applied to the bank for a £50,000 Bounce Back Loan in 2020. 

    In reality, Smart Tyres had a turnover of little more than half that figure. 

    Gashi was banned as a company director until April 2035 and ordered to pay costs of £5,333 at a hearing of the High Court in Birmingham on Wednesday 2 April. 

    His ban started on Thursday 17 April. 

    Gashi has also repaid £8,000 of the Bounce Back Loan. 

    Kevin Read, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said: 

    Shkelzen Gashi blatantly overstated the turnover of his company, ensuring it received significantly more in Covid support than it was entitled to. 

    Gashi was given numerous opportunities by our investigators to explain his actions but failed to do so. 

    This was taxpayers’ money and Gashi will now no longer be able to be involved in the promotion, formation or management of a company for the next decade as a result of his dishonest conduct.

    Smart Tyres was incorporated in May 2015 with Gashi as the sole director and shareholder. 

    Gashi described the company as providing a full range of both mechanical and electrical repairs. 

    Insolvency Service analysis of the Smart Tyres’ accounts revealed it had a turnover of £134,401 for the 2019 calendar year. 

    However, Gashi falsely declared on the application form that its income was a quarter of a million pounds. 

    Gashi received the £50,000 Bounce Back Loan in October 2020. 

    Smart Tyres ceased trading in August 2022 with liabilities of more than £100,000. 

    A tyre shop operates from the same address Smart Tyres traded from. Gashi is not a director of this company. 

    The Bounce Back Loan Scheme helped small and medium-sized businesses to borrow between £2,000 and £50,000, at a low interest rate, guaranteed by the government. 

    The loans had to be repaid over six to 10 years, with payments starting one year after companies received the funds. 

    Further information 

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai meets New Zealand delegation from All-Party Parliamentary Group on Taiwan  

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Details
    2025-04-15
    President Lai meets delegation led by Tuvalu Deputy Prime Minister Panapasi Nelesone 
    On the afternoon of April 15, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Tuvalu Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and Economic Development Panapasi Nelesone and his wife. In remarks, President Lai thanked Tuvalu for its staunch and long-term backing of Taiwan’s international participation. The president said he looks forward to our nations deepening bilateral ties in such areas as agriculture, medicine, education, and information and communications technology and working together toward greater peace, prosperity, and development in the Pacific region. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I extend a very warm welcome to Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone and Madame Corinna Ituaso Laafai as they lead this delegation to Taiwan. Our distinguished guests are the first delegation from Tuvalu that I have received at the Presidential Office this year. During my visit to Tuvalu last year, I met and exchanged views with Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone and the ministers present. I am delighted to meet you again today and thank you once again for the hospitality you accorded my delegation. The culture of Tuvalu and the warmth of its people are not easily forgotten. Tuvalu’s support for Taiwan has also touched us deeply. I want to take this opportunity to thank Tuvalu for staunchly backing Taiwan’s international participation over the past several decades. Our two countries have supported each other like family and have together made contributions in the international arena. Last Tuesday, I received the credentials of Ambassador Lily Tangisia Faavae and expressed my hope for Taiwan and Tuvalu continuing to deepen bilateral relations. This visit by Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone is an important step in that regard. Our two countries will be signing a labor cooperation agreement and an agreement concerning the recognition of training and certification of seafarers. This will expand bilateral cooperation at multiple levels and bring our relations even closer. Taiwan and Tuvalu are maritime nations and share the values of democracy and freedom. Our two countries have stood shoulder to shoulder to protect marine resources and address the challenges posed by climate change and authoritarianism, and we aspire to work toward greater peace, prosperity, and development in the Pacific region. Our nations have produced fruitful results in such areas as agriculture, medicine, education, and information and communications technology. I anticipate that, with the support of Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone and our distinguished guests, we can continue to employ a more diverse range of strategies to begin a new chapter in our diplomatic partnership. Together, we can make even greater and more concrete contributions to regional development. Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for his kind words of welcome and the warm hospitality extended to his delegation. On behalf of the government and people of Tuvalu, he conveyed their gratitude to the president and the people of Taiwan for the generous support, as well as for the enduring friendship we share. He said that Taiwan’s steadfast commitment to our bilateral relationship has been instrumental in advancing our shared values of democracy, resilience, and sustainable development. From vital development assistance to cooperation in health, education, and climate change resilience, he added, Taiwan’s contributions have made a significant impact on the lives of the people of Tuvalu.  For Taiwan’s recent generous donation of shoes for Tuvaluan primary school students, Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone expressed thanks to President Lai. He commented that these gifts, which underscore a deep commitment to the welfare of their youth, transcend mere material support; they are symbols of care, friendship, and hope for the future generations. Noting that our bilateral relationship is built on mutual respect, shared values, and a common vision for sustainable development in the Pacific, he expressed confidence that this partnership will continue to flourish and will serve as a beacon of cooperation and solidarity within our region.  The delegation also included Tuvalu Minister of Foreign Affairs, Labour, and Trade Paulson Panapa; Minister of Public Works, Infrastructure Development and Water Ampelosa Tehulu, and was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Tuvalu Ambassador Faavae.

    Details
    2025-04-10
    President Lai pens Bloomberg News article on Taiwan’s response to US reciprocal tariffs
    On April 10, an article penned by President Lai Ching-te entitled “Taiwan Has a Roadmap for Deeper US Trade Ties” was published by Bloomberg News, explaining to a global audience Taiwan’s strategy on trade with the United States, as well as how Taiwan will engage in dialogue with the aim of removing bilateral trade barriers, increasing investment between Taiwan and the US, and reducing tariffs to zero. The following is the full text of President Lai’s article: Last month, the first of Taiwan’s 66 new F-16Vs rolled off the assembly line in Greenville, South Carolina. Signed during President Donald Trump’s first term, the $8 billion deal stands as a testament to American ingenuity and leadership in advanced manufacturing. Beyond its economic impact – creating thousands of well-paying jobs across the US – it strengthens the foundations of peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.  This deal is emblematic of the close interests shared between Taiwan and the US. Our bond is forged by an unwavering belief in freedom and liberty. For decades, our two countries have stood shoulder-to-shoulder in deterring communist expansionism. Even as Beijing intensifies its air force and naval exercises in our vicinity, we remain resolute. Taiwan will always be a bastion of democracy and peace in the region. This partnership extends well beyond the security realm. Though home to just 23 million people, Taiwan has in recent years become a significant investor in America. TSMC recently announced it will raise its total investment in the US to $165 billion – an initiative that will create 40,000 construction jobs and tens of thousands more in advanced chip manufacturing and R&D. This investment will bolster the emergence of a new high-tech cluster in Arizona. Taiwan is committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation in manufacturing and innovation. As a trade-dependent economy, our long-term success is built on trade relationships that are fair, reciprocal and mutually beneficial. Encouraging Taiwanese businesses to expand their global footprint, particularly in the US, is a vital part of this strategy. Deepening commercial ties between Taiwanese and American firms is another. These core principles will guide our response to President Trump’s reciprocal tariffs. First, we will seek to restart trade negotiations with a common objective of reducing all tariffs between Taiwan and the US. While Taiwan already maintains low tariffs, with an average nominal rate of 6%, we are willing to further cut this rate to zero on the basis of reciprocity with the US. By removing the last vestiges to free and fair trade, we seek to encourage greater trade and investment flows between our two countries. Second, Taiwan will rapidly expand procurement of American goods. Over the past five years, rising demand for semiconductors and AI-related components has increased our trade surplus. In response to these market trends, Taiwan will seek to narrow the trade imbalance through the procurement of energy, agriculture and other industrial goods from the US. These efforts will create thousands of new jobs across multiple sectors.  We’ll also pursue additional arms procurements that are vital to our self-defense and contribute to peace and stability over the Taiwan Strait. During President Trump’s first term, we secured $18 billion in arms deals, including advanced fighter jets, tanks and anti-ship missiles. Future purchases, which are not reflected in trade balances, build on our economic and security partnership while being essential to Taiwan’s “Peace Through Strength” approach. Third, new investments will be made across the US. Already, Taiwanese firms support 400,000 jobs throughout all 50 states. Beyond TSMC, we also see emerging opportunities in electronics, ICT, energy and petrochemicals. We will establish a cross-agency “US Investment Team” to support bilateral trade and investment – and we hope that efforts will be reciprocated by the Trump administration. Fourth, we are committed to removing non-tariff trade barriers. Taiwan will take concrete steps to resolve persistent issues that have long impeded trade negotiations. And finally, we will strongly address US concerns over export controls and improper transshipment of low-cost goods through Taiwan. These steps form the basis of a comprehensive roadmap for how Taiwan will navigate the shifting trade landscape, transforming challenges in the Taiwan-US economic relationship into new opportunities for growth, resilience and strategic alignment. At a time of growing global uncertainty, underpinned by growing Chinese assertiveness, closer trade ties are more than sound economics; they are a critical pillar of regional security. Our approach is long-term and principled, grounded in a lasting commitment to our friendship with the US, a firm belief in the benefits of fair and reciprocal trade, and an unwavering dedication to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. We are confident that our shared economic and security interests will not only overcome turbulence in the international trade environment – they will define the future of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

    Details
    2025-04-08
    President Lai receives credentials from new Tuvalu Ambassador Lily Tangisia Faavae  
    On the morning of April 8, President Lai Ching-te received the credentials of new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Tuvalu to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Lily Tangisia Faavae. In remarks, President Lai welcomed the ambassador to her new post and thanked Tuvalu for its long-term support for Taiwan’s international participation. The president also noted that joint efforts between our two countries have produced fruitful results in such areas as medicine and public health, agricultural and fisheries technology, and information and communications technology. He expressed his hope that we will continue to deepen our bilateral relations so as to generate even greater well-being for our peoples and promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Pacific region. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: It is a great pleasure today to receive the credentials of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Tuvalu Lily Tangisia Faavae. On behalf of the Republic of China (Taiwan), I extend my warmest welcome to you. Last year, the Republic of China (Taiwan) and Tuvalu celebrated 45 years of diplomatic relations. Prime Minister Feleti Teo visited Taiwan in May last year for the inauguration of myself and Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao and again in October for our National Day celebrations. When I visited Tuvalu last December, I was warmly received by the government and people of Tuvalu, and I deeply felt that our two countries were like family. Ambassador Faavae’s posting to Taiwan demonstrates the importance Prime Minister Teo places on our ties. Widely recognized for her exceptional talent, Ambassador Faavae is an outstanding official with extensive experience in public service. Moreover, during her term as Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, she voiced support for Taiwan at the World Health Assembly. I believe that with her assistance, our two nations will further advance cooperation and exchanges. I want to thank the government of Tuvalu for long supporting Taiwan’s international participation. Furthermore, joint efforts between our two countries have produced fruitful results in such areas as medicine and public health, agricultural and fisheries technology, and information and communications technology. Last year, Prime Minister Teo and I signed a joint communiqué on advancing the comprehensive partnership between Taiwan and Tuvalu. Going forward, we will stand together in tackling the challenges we face, including climate change and expanding authoritarianism. And we will continue to deepen our bilateral relations so as to generate even greater well-being for our peoples and promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Pacific region. Once again, I warmly welcome Ambassador Faavae to her new post in Taiwan. Please convey warmest regards from Taiwan to Prime Minister Teo and all of our friends in Tuvalu. I wish you all the best in work and life during your term in Taiwan. Ambassador Faavae then delivered remarks, saying that it is a great honor and privilege to meet with President Lai today as the new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Tuvalu to Taiwan, and to present to him her letter of credence. She then extended, on behalf of the government and people of Tuvalu, her warmest greetings and deep respect to the president and people of Taiwan. The letter of credence, she noted, signifies the trust and confidence that her government and governor-general have placed in her to represent their nation and to foster and strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our countries. Ambassador Faavae said that our two countries have enjoyed a longstanding relationship of 45 years based on mutual respect, cooperation, and shared values. She added that we have collaborated, and continue to do so, in such fields as education, health, climate change adaptation and sea level rise mitigation, agriculture, clean energy, and internet connectivity.  Ambassador Faavae pointed out that Tuvalu remains committed to deepening ties with Taiwan and that it values people-to-people connections and our shared Austronesian heritage. She noted that the people of Tuvalu, a small developing nation, have greatly benefited from Taiwan’s advanced technical expertise and diverse financial assistance. She said she believes Tuvalu and Taiwan share a common interest and are united in our efforts and commitment to upholding democracy, peace, stability, and prosperity for our people and making the world better and safer.  Ambassador Faavae stated that as ambassador of Tuvalu to Taiwan, she pledges to work diligently and respectfully to enhance our bilateral relations, promote mutual understanding, and facilitate collaboration in areas of shared concern. The ambassador said she looks forward to collaborating closely with the Taiwan government and other stakeholders to achieve our common objectives and to continue building a more prosperous and harmonious future for our nations. In closing, she thanked President Lai for the opportunity to serve and to further the enduring friendship between our two countries.  

    Details
    2025-03-28
    President Lai meets British Office Taipei Representative Ruth Bradley-Jones
    On the afternoon of March 28, President Lai Ching-te met with British Office Taipei Representative Ruth Bradley-Jones. In remarks, President Lai welcomed Representative Bradley-Jones as she takes up her post in Taiwan, and thanked the United Kingdom government and parliament for demonstrating staunch support for Taiwan. The president indicated that Taiwan and the UK enjoy close economic and trade ties, and our industries complement each other well, with great potential for collaboration in such fields as semiconductors, AI, unmanned vehicles, and medium- and low-orbit satellites. He stated that he looks forward to expanding exchanges with the UK across all domains so as to enhance democratic and economic resilience, jointly advancing the prosperous development of the Indo-Pacific region and economic security around the world. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: It is a pleasure to meet Representative Bradley-Jones here at the Presidential Office for this exchange. I understand that she has proactively called at many government agencies since taking up her post last month. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend a warm welcome. Taiwan and the UK are partners that share the values of freedom and democracy. In recent years, our bilateral relations have continued to deepen. With the efforts of Representative Bradley-Jones and our respective governments, I look forward to the expansion of dialogue and cooperation between Taiwan and the UK. This will further elevate our bilateral ties. Especially in the face of expanding authoritarianism, the UK is not only playing an important role in crafting a unified European response; it is also demonstrating staunch support for Taiwan through various channels. For example, joint statements released after the Australia-UK ministerial consultations, as well as the G7 foreign ministers’ meeting, underlined a high level of concern for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. The UK government has publicly expressed support for Taiwan’s international participation on multiple occasions. And last November, the UK House of Commons passed a motion clearly asserting that United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 does not mention Taiwan. These actions attest to the UK’s belief in supporting democracy and peace, and have further solidified our countries’ friendship. I would like to convey my deepest gratitude to the UK government and parliament.  Currently, the UK is Taiwan’s fourth largest trading partner in Europe and second largest source of investment from Europe. We enjoy close economic and trade ties, and our industries complement each other well. There is also great potential for collaboration in such fields as semiconductors, AI, unmanned vehicles, and medium- and low-orbit satellites. We look forward to expanding exchanges with the UK across all domains so as to enhance democratic and economic resilience. We also hope the UK will continue to support Taiwan’s bid to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership so that together, we can work with more like-minded partners, jointly advancing the prosperous development of the Indo-Pacific region and economic security around the world. Once again, I welcome Representative Bradley-Jones to Taiwan and wish her all the best with her work. I anticipate that Taiwan-UK relations will continue to steadily advance through our joint efforts. Representative Bradley-Jones then delivered remarks, first saying in Mandarin that she is honored to meet with President Lai to discuss topics of mutual concern and jointly deepen Taiwan-UK relations, promoting mutual understanding, respect, and cooperation. She went on to say that she came to Taiwan last August to study Mandarin, and began her post as British Office Taipei representative in February this year, noting that every day she learns more about and gains a deeper understanding of Taiwan. Last year, she said, she visited Tainan and Wanli, and found Tainan’s wetlands and the scenery in Wanli very impressive. She added that she has also tried many different Taiwanese foods, and is looking forward to experiencing even more of Taiwan’s local culture and customs over the next four years. Continuing her remarks in English, Representative Bradley-Jones stated that since taking up her post, she has borne witness to the strength of the relationship between Taiwan and the UK and the potential for it to continue to grow. She said that on trade and investment, there is significant complementarity between Taiwan’s Five Trusted Industry Sectors and the UK’s Industrial Strategy, particularly in areas such as digital technologies, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy. Both governments are also together supporting Taiwan and UK businesses through our Enhanced Trade Partnership and annual trade talks, she said. Representative Bradley-Jones went on to say that on science and technology, Taiwan and the UK can and should do more together. She noted that the UK has the third largest tech sector in the world and is valued at over US$1.1 trillion, while Taiwan is the center of the semiconductor and AI hardware world. Given our complementary strengths, especially in areas such as semiconductors, space, and communications technology, she said, the UK has stepped up its level of activity in Taiwan, including by regularly hosting a UK Pavilion at SEMICON and funding 18 joint R&D programs through our new collaborative R&D fund, and looks forward to doing more together in the future.  In support of Taiwan’s whole-of-society resilience, the representative said, the UK is supporting valuable exchanges, co-hosting GCTF (Global Cooperation and Training Framework) workshops, sharing lessons on financial sector resilience, and reaching out to mayors and community leaders across Taiwan. From financial resilience to cyber resilience, she said, the UK’s public sector and private industries have plenty to share and learn. Representative Bradley-Jones stated that on people-to-people links, parliamentarians, civil society, and academics are continuing to deepen contact, and that she is particularly excited by a new smart parliament partnership agreed upon by the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy and the UK’s Westminster Foundation for Democracy, which aims to facilitate cross-party, cross-society, and cross-border exchanges on issues such as democratic governance, AI, inclusive policy-making, and public safety. The representative indicated that the examples she mentioned just scratch the surface of the full potential of the Taiwan-UK relationship. She said that the UK’s longstanding policy remains unchanged, and fundamentally, that is because we share a common set of values and interests. We are together focused on how to make our societies safer and more prosperous tomorrow than they are today, she said, and as like-minded democracies, innovative economies, and practical partners, the sincere and pragmatic cooperation between Taiwan and the UK is bringing material benefits to the prosperity and well-being of our people every day. 

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    2025-03-21
    President Lai meets Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy
    On the morning of March 21, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy. In remarks, President Lai said that Alaska has long been an important trading partner of Taiwan, and that we have built a solid foundation for cooperation in such fields as energy, fisheries, and tourism. The president expressed hope that Taiwan and Alaska will have more frequent engagement and exchanges so that our relations can continue to grow to create prosperous development for both sides. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend my sincerest welcome to our guests. This is Governor Dunleavy’s first visit to Taiwan, and last night, we both attended the Hsieh Nien Fan (謝年飯) banquet hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce in Taiwan. I am delighted to have this opportunity to meet with Governor Dunleavy today at the Presidential Office for further dialogue. Alaska has long been an important trading partner of Taiwan. Our sister-state relationship was established in 1988, and we have built a solid foundation for cooperation in such fields as energy, fisheries, and tourism. Currently, Taiwan is Alaska’s eighth largest export market and ninth largest source of imports. This goes to show just how close our trade and economic ties are and how much potential there is for further growth. As I said in my remarks at last night’s Hsieh Nien Fan banquet, Taiwan is interested in buying Alaskan natural gas. I am sure that Governor Dunleavy’s visit will help us explore even more opportunities for cooperation and continue to deepen Taiwan-United States relations. In the face of such challenges as expanding authoritarianism, climate change, and pandemics, we look forward to strengthening collaboration between Taiwan and the US. By drawing on our strengths, we can jointly build non-red supply chains to bolster our economic resilience and drive the advancement of global technology. I want to thank the US government for reiterating the importance it attaches to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and its opposition to any attempt to change the status quo by force or coercion. These statements backing Taiwan help in maintaining stability across the Taiwan Strait and in the Indo-Pacific region. Once again, I thank Governor Dunleavy for traveling such a long way to Taiwan. We hope to see more frequent engagement and exchanges between Taiwan and Alaska so that our relations can continue to grow, and we can create prosperous development for both sides. Governor Dunleavy then delivered remarks, saying that their trip to visit friends in Taiwan has been fantastic, thanking President Lai for the invitation to meet, and thanking all the staff. Governor Dunleavy said that as the pandemic was raging, the world went from “before COVID” to “after COVID.” Before COVID, he said, the world relied on a number of systems that were in place for decades after World War II involving supply chains, alliances, sources of energy, trading partners, and friends. He went on to say that as we go beyond COVID, we are reestablishing and reevaluating who our friends are, where we are going to get our energy, and who our trading partners are going to be. The governor said that we are creating a new world for the next 50 years with the new administration in Washington, and this is an opportunity for us to reevaluate and reinvest with our friends for the next 50 years in each other, our futures, and our security. Governor Dunleavy stated that one thing is for certain: that Taiwan is a friend of the US and a friend of Alaska, and has been for many, many decades. He said that it is their hope in this trip and subsequent trips to establish an even tighter bond among their friends in Taiwan, the US, and Alaska. The governor also said that we have much in common in that we are members of the Pacific family, are democracies, and believe in freedom, free speech, and capitalism. He indicated that he has much optimism for the future, and that as we reestablish relationships throughout the world, energy is going to be the key and the basis for our economic development, our national security, and our friendship. Governor Dunleavy said that he believes this trip is going to lay the groundwork for a fantastic future between Taiwan, Alaska, and the US, and that with President Lai’s support as well as the support of the US administration, we can work together to build even better relationships.

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    2025-04-06
    President Lai delivers remarks on US tariff policy response
    On April 6, President Lai Ching-te delivered recorded remarks regarding the impact of the 32 percent tariff that the United States government recently imposed on imports from Taiwan in the name of reciprocity. In his remarks, President Lai explained that the government will adopt five response strategies, including making every effort to improve reciprocal tariff rates through negotiations, adopting a support plan for affected domestic industries, adopting medium- and long-term economic development plans, forming new “Taiwan plus the US” arrangements, and launching industry listening tours. The president emphasized that as we face this latest challenge, the government and civil society will work hand in hand, and expressed hope that all parties, both ruling and opposition, will support the measures that the Executive Yuan will take to open up a broader path for Taiwan’s economy. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: My fellow citizens, good evening. The US government recently announced higher tariffs on countries around the world in the name of reciprocity, including imposing a 32 percent tariff on imports from Taiwan. This is bound to have a major impact on our nation. Various countries have already responded, and some have even adopted retaliatory measures. Tremendous changes in the global economy are expected. Taiwan is an export-led economy, and in facing future challenges there will inevitably be difficulties, so we must proceed carefully to turn danger into safety. During this time, I want to express gratitude to all sectors of society for providing valuable opinions, which the government regards highly, and will use as a reference to make policy decisions.  However, if we calmly and carefully analyze Taiwan’s trade with the US, we find that last year Taiwan’s exports to the US were valued at US$111.4 billion, accounting for 23.4 percent of total export value, with the other 75-plus percent of products sold worldwide to countries other than the US. Of products sold to the US, competitive ICT products and electronic components accounted for 65.4 percent. This shows that Taiwan’s economy does still have considerable resilience. As long as our response strategies are appropriate, and the public and private sectors join forces, we can reduce impacts. Please do not panic. To address the reciprocal tariffs by the US, Taiwan has no plans to adopt retaliatory tariffs. There will be no change in corporate investment commitments to the US, as long as they are consistent with national interests. But we must ensure the US clearly understands Taiwan’s contributions to US economic development. More importantly, we must actively seek to understand changes in the global economic situation, strengthen Taiwan-US industry cooperation, elevate the status of Taiwan industries in global supply chains, and with safeguarding the continued development of Taiwan’s economy as our goal, adopt the following five strategies to respond. Strategy one: Make every effort to improve reciprocal tariff rates through negotiations using the following five methods:  1. Taiwan has already formed a negotiation team led by Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun (鄭麗君). The team includes members from the National Security Council, the Office of Trade Negotiations, and relevant Executive Yuan ministries and agencies, as well as academia and industry. Like the US-Mexico-Canada free trade agreement, negotiations on tariffs can start from Taiwan-US bilateral zero-tariff treatment. 2. To expand purchases from the US and thereby reduce the trade deficit, the Executive Yuan has already completed an inventory regarding large-scale procurement plans for agricultural, industrial, petroleum, and natural gas products, and the Ministry of National Defense has also proposed a military procurement list. All procurement plans will be actively pursued. 3. Expand investments in the US. Taiwan’s cumulative investment in the US already exceeds US$100 billion, creating approximately 400,000 jobs. In the future, in addition to increased investment in the US by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, other industries such as electronics, ICT, petrochemicals, and natural gas can all increase their US investments, deepening Taiwan-US industry cooperation. Taiwan’s government has helped form a “Taiwan investment in the US” team, and hopes that the US will reciprocate by forming a “US investment in Taiwan” team to bring about closer Taiwan-US trade cooperation, jointly creating a future economic golden age.  4. We must eliminate non-tariff barriers to trade. Non-tariff barriers are an indicator by which the US assesses whether a trading partner is trading fairly with the US. Therefore, we will proactively resolve longstanding non-tariff barriers so that negotiations can proceed more smoothly. 5. We must resolve two issues that have been matters of longstanding concern to the US. One regards high-tech export controls, and the other regards illegal transshipment of dumped goods, otherwise referred to as “origin washing.” Strategy two: We must adopt a plan for supporting our industries. For industries that will be affected by the tariffs, and especially traditional industries as well as micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises, we will provide timely and needed support and assistance. Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) and his administrative team recently announced a package of 20 specific measures designed to address nine areas. Moving forward, the support we provide to different industries will depend on how they are affected by the tariffs, will take into account the particular features of each industry, and will help each industry innovate, upgrade, and transform. Strategy three: We must adopt medium- and long-term economic development plans. At this point in time, our government must simultaneously adopt new strategies for economic and industrial development. This is also the fundamental path to solutions for future economic challenges. The government will proactively cooperate with friends and allies, develop a diverse range of markets, and achieve closer integration of entities in the upper, middle, and lower reaches of industrial supply chains. This course of action will make Taiwan’s industrial ecosystem more complete, and will help Taiwanese industries upgrade and transform. We must also make good use of the competitive advantages we possess in such areas as semiconductor manufacturing, integrated chip design, ICT, and smart manufacturing to build Taiwan into an AI island, and promote relevant applications for food, clothing, housing, and transportation, as well as military, security and surveillance, next-generation communications, and the medical and health and wellness industries as we advance toward a smarter, more sustainable, and more prosperous new Taiwan. Strategy four: “Taiwan plus one,” i.e., new “Taiwan plus the US” arrangements: While staying firmly rooted in Taiwan, our enterprises are expanding their global presence and marketing worldwide. This has been our national economic development strategy, and the most important aspect is maintaining a solid base here in Taiwan. We absolutely must maintain a solid footing, and cannot allow the present strife to cause us to waver. Therefore, our government will incentivize investments, carry out deregulation, and continue to improve Taiwan’s investment climate by actively resolving problems involving access to water, electricity, land, human resources, and professional talent. This will enable corporations to stay in Taiwan and continue investing here. In addition, we must also help the overseas manufacturing facilities of offshore Taiwanese businesses to make necessary adjustments to support our “Taiwan plus one” policy, in that our national economic development strategy will be adjusted as follows: to stay firmly rooted in Taiwan while expanding our global presence, strengthening US ties, and marketing worldwide. We intend to make use of the new state of supply chains to strengthen cooperation between Taiwanese and US industries, and gain further access to US markets. Strategy five: Launch industry listening tours: All industrial firms, regardless of sector or size, will be affected to some degree once the US reciprocal tariffs go into effect. The administrative teams led by myself and Premier Cho will hear out industry concerns so that we can quickly resolve problems and make sure policies meet actual needs. My fellow citizens, over the past half-century and more, Taiwan has been through two energy crises, the Asian financial crisis, the global financial crisis, and pandemics. We have been able to not only withstand one test after another, but even turn crises into opportunities. The Taiwanese economy has emerged from these crises stronger and more resilient than ever. As we face this latest challenge, the government and civil society will work hand in hand, and I hope that all parties in the legislature, both ruling and opposition, will support the measures that the Executive Yuan will take to open up a broader path for Taiwan’s economy. Let us join together and give it our all. Thank you.

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