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Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK and France convene first Defence Ministers’ Ukraine Coalition of the Willing meeting

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK and France convene first Defence Ministers’ Ukraine Coalition of the Willing meeting

    UK and France convene defence ministers’ meeting in Brussels to progress planning to support a lasting peace in Ukraine

    Operational discussions to plan for a multinational reassurance force to support Ukraine in securing a lasting peace will progress today [April 10] with 30 defence ministers set to attend the latest Coalition of the Willing meeting.

    The Defence Secretary, John Healey, and his French counterpart, Minister Sébastien Lecornu, will host around 30 nations involved in planning for the Coalition of the Willing in Brussels later today.

    The meetings will focus on how the capabilities of each nation in the Coalition could be best used in supporting Ukraine’s long-term defence and security.

    The Prime Minister and Defence Secretary have both been clear that a lasting peace in Ukraine will require credible security assurances to deter Russian aggression. The UK has been stepping up to lead international support to keep Ukraine in the fight now and put them in the strongest possible position to secure peace.

    Addressing the meeting, Defence Secretary John Healey MP is expected to say:

    A couple of weeks ago, I visited the UK’s Permanent Joint Headquarters where military leaders from around 30 nations were developing options and progressing plans. I was struck by their sense of historic responsibility to secure the peace in Ukraine and to strengthen European security for all our nations.

    We cannot jeopardise the peace by forgetting about the war, so we must put even more pressure on Putin and step up our support for Ukraine – both in today’s fight and the push for peace. Our commitment is to put Ukraine in the strongest position to protect Ukraine’s sovereignty and deter future Russian aggression.

    The meeting today comes after the Chief of the Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, travelled to Kyiv with French military chiefs last weekend to meet President Zelenskyy, Defence Minister Umerov, and Ukrainian military leaders to update and discuss planning.

    Tomorrow, the Defence Secretary and German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius will chair the 27th meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group, bringing together around 50 nations to drive forward additional military support for Ukraine in the face of ongoing Russian attacks.

    The UK convened and chaired the group in its latest format for the first time in February, with 46 nations in attendance, raising an extra 1.5 billion euros in military aid for Ukraine. These latest meetings come after the UK set the path to spending 2.5% of GDP on defence from 2027, and a boost to defence spending of £5 billion for this financial year, delivering on the government’s Plan for Change.

    This work delivers on the Prime Minister’s four-point plan to support Ukraine by ramping up delivery of weapons and equipment, boosting Ukraine’s defensive capabilities in the long term, working with allies to develop robust security assurances, and keeping up pressure on Putin.

    The UK is fully committed to working with allies to step up support to ensure Ukraine is in the strongest possible position to secure peace and is stepping up support – providing £4.5 billion of military support this year – more than ever before.

    This support is vital to European security but is also supporting growth across the UK, with defence as an engine for growth. Last month, the Prime Minister announced a historic £1.6 billion deal to provide more than five thousand air defence missiles for Ukraine – creating 200 new jobs and supporting a further 700. Defence supports more than 434,000 skilled jobs in the UK.

    The UK has sent around 400 different capabilities to Ukraine, with a £150 million package including drones, tanks and air defence systems announced on 12 February 2025, a £225 million package including drones, boats and munitions announced on 19 December 2024, and 650 lightweight multirole missiles announced on 6 September 2024.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 April 2025

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leicester school celebrates outstanding status

    Source: City of Leicester

    AN OUTSTANDING school in Leicester has been praised for maintaining standards in a recent Ofsted inspection.

    Catherine Infant School, in Belgrave, was inspected by Ofsted in February to see if it had taken effective action to maintain the standards identified at the previous inspection in 2019, when it was rated outstanding.

    The inspection found that the school has indeed maintained standards, despite a change of headteacher, deputy and chair of governors since the last inspection.

    Inspectors praised the school’s nurturing atmosphere and values of kindness, respect, resilience and a love of learning, which they said ‘sit at the heart of all that it does’.

    They said that pupils – who range in age from 3 to 7 – thrive and are very happy at the school. There is a ‘rigorous and ambitious’ curriculum and the school places a high priority on pupils learning to read – and as a result they make ‘an excellent start’ in early years education.

    Pupils’ behaviour was described as ‘exemplary’, and the school was also praised for quickly identifying and supporting pupils who need extra help, as well as pupils with special educational needs (SEN) and disabilities. The school has a SEN unit funded and supported by the city council, as part of the council’s Designated Specialist Provision (DSP) across the city. 

    The school has also relocated to a new building since the last inspection, as part of a Government rebuilding scheme for ageing schools, with an official opening event planned for the summer term.

    Headteacher Mitesh Madhaw said: “We are absolutely delighted with the outcome of our recent Ofsted inspection, which recognises the dedication, passion, and hard work of our entire school community.

    “Being rated ‘outstanding’ is a tremendous achievement and a reflection of the relentless commitment of our staff, the enthusiasm of our pupils, and the unwavering support of our parents and governors. We are proud to provide a nurturing and ambitious environment where every child can thrive. This report affirms that our shared vision and values are not only being lived every day, but are making a real and lasting impact. We will continue to strive for excellence and ensure our school remains a place where children love to learn and grow.”

    Cllr Elaine Pantling, assistant city mayor for education, said: “This is absolutely excellent news for Catherine Infant School, which – like all our schools – the local authority is very proud to support.

    “The glowing praise in this inspection shows what a wonderful impact parents, teachers, governors and the local community can have on children when everyone works together to create a caring and inspirational learning environment.

    “I congratulate the whole school community on this outcome, and very much look forward to visiting them next term to see their new building!”

    The Ofsted report can be viewed at https://files.ofsted.gov.uk/v1/file/50273123

    ENDS

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: India and Japan offer hope amid 6% decline in global deal activity in Q1 2025, reveals GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    India and Japan offer hope amid 6% decline in global deal activity in Q1 2025, reveals GlobalData

    Posted in Business Fundamentals

    The global deal landscape (mergers & acquisitions (M&A), private equity and venture financing deals) declined 6% year-on-year (YoY) during the first quarter (Q1) of 2025, as economic uncertainty weighed on investor confidence. However, markets like India and Japan stood out by defying the global trend, signaling that select regions continue to attract deal-makers despite broader headwinds, reveals GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    An analysis of GlobalData’s Deals Database revealed that all the deal types under coverage registered YoY decline in volume during Q1 2025. All the regions also witnessed a fall in deal activity while the trend across different markets within the regions remained a mixed bag, with some countries experiencing decline while some others bucking the global and regional trend.

    Aurojyoti Bose, Lead Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “While the overall downturn is indicative of a cautious approach among the investors and corporations alike, the resilience shown by some markets offers a glimmer of hope.”

    M&A deals saw around 5% decline in volume during Q1 2025 compared to Q1 2024. Similarly, private equity and venture financing deals also contracted, indicating a tightening of capital flows and a more selective investment approach. The number of private equity and venture financing deals registered a YoY decrease of around 2% and 8%, respectively, in Q1 2025.

    North America remains the largest market for deal activity, although it too has witnessed an approximate 4% decline in deal volume. The US, a key driver of global deal-making, has seen a similar trend, with around 3% drop in activity.

    Similarly, the Asia-Pacific region has experienced a contraction, with deal volume falling by around 4%. Notably, China has faced a sharp decline in M&A activity, reflecting the ongoing regulatory challenges and economic headwinds. However, India and Japan bucked the trend, showcasing an increase in deal volume.

    Europe also faced challenges, with deal volume decreasing by approximately 9%. The UK, which is the top European market, has seen a double-digit decline in deal volume. Nevertheless, markets such as Germany and France continue to exhibit resilience, albeit with modest declines.

    Middle East and Africa and South and Central America regions also experienced respective deal volume fall by 8.3% and 15.2%, respectively, during Q1 2025 compared to Q1 2024.

    Bose concludes: “While the global deal landscape is facing headwinds, it is essential to recognize that pockets of growth still exist. Markets like India and Japan are defying the broader trend, indicating that strategic investments and innovation can thrive even in challenging times.”

    Note: Historic data may change in case some deals get added to previous months because of a delay in disclosure of information in the public domain.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Lord Kinnock on what inspired his politics #LordSpeakersCorner

    Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)

    Former Labour leader Neil Kinnock, Lord Kinnock, is the latest guest on Lord Speaker’s Corner.Hear about what inspired him to get into politics, his early years as an MP and the Labour party of the 80s and 90s.

    Lord Kinnock also speaks about his regrets from his time as leader, plus how politics and public discourse has changed today.

    Watch or listen now. Search ‘House of Lords’ wherever you get your podcasts or visit https://www.parliament.uk/business/lords/house-of-lords-podcast/lord-kinnock-lord-speakers-corner/
    #houseoflords #LordSpeakersCorner #LordsMembers

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: International Education Envoy appointed

    Source: Scottish Government

    Building Scotland’s academic connections across the world.

    Business Minister Richard Lochhead has announced the appointment of a new international trade and investment envoy tasked with promoting Scotland’s academic institutions.

    Professor Rachel Sandison will foster links with universities abroad, encourage foreign investment in Scottish universities’ world-leading research and help attract more international students and staff.

    Mr Lochhead made the announcement ahead of a visit to Shanghai’s China-UK Low-Carbon College, a joint initiative between the University of Edinburgh and Shanghai Jiao Tong University. Its research projects include analysis of carbon capture projects and the effectiveness of CO2 storage methods.

    The College is one of seven existing partnerships in Shanghai between Scottish and Chinese research and academic institutions, with others specialising in engineering, finance and art.

    Mr Lochhead, who is undertaking a visit to China and Japan, said:

    “Scotland’s research and academic excellence is recognised the world over. As our new Trade and Investment Envoy for International Education, Rachel will champion Scotland’s academic institutions and the innovative contributions they are making in fields as diverse as artificial intelligence, art and tackling climate change.

    “She will help attract investment and encourage the brightest students and leading researchers to study, live and work in Scotland, contributing to the economy.

    “The UK-China Low-Carbon College is a perfect example of what can be achieved and illustrates how partnerships between leading universities can address global issues. It also underlines the importance of Scotland’s academic, economic and cultural relationship with China.”

    Prof. Sandison is Deputy Vice Chancellor for External Engagement and Vice-Principal for External Relations at the University of Glasgow. She said:

    “I am delighted to have been appointed to this exciting role. It is a pivotal time for the Scottish education sector, with an opportunity to further strengthen Scotland’s reputation as an education powerhouse through the development and delivery of the Scottish Government’s new International Education Strategy.

    “Global connectivity is more important than ever before and I look forward to helping connect Scotland’s further and higher education institutions with international organisations, governments and opportunities in support of Scotland’s strategic objectives. 

    “I am also pleased to have the opportunity to work closely with Sir Steve Smith, the UK’s International Education Champion, to advocate for the sector at home and overseas and to reinforce Scotland’s position as a destination of choice for global talent.”

    Background

    The Envoy role is unpaid. The appointment is for a tenure of one year (until 31 March 2026) with the possibility of extension for a further two years. Professor Rachel Sandison OBE takes up her position alongside eight other Trade and Investment Envoys. The role succeeds the Envoy for International Higher Education, which was last filled by Wendy Alexander from November 2017 until January 2025. 

    With more than 20 years experience in the higher education sector, Prof. Sandison has responsibility for leading the University of Glasgow’s strategy for external engagement covering areas including Internationalisation; Student Recruitment and Admissions; Marketing and Communications; Development and Alumni Relations, and Widening Access and Lifelong Learning.

    The Envoy’s role is closely linked to the aims of Scotland’s International Education Strategy.

    China is a leading international research collaborator with Scotland and more than 22,000 Chinese students make up 25% of the international population at Scottish universities. 

    UK-China Low-Carbon College

    Promoting Scottish business and expertise – gov.scot

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Migrant-smuggling driver cell intercepted in France

    Source: Europol

    At the end of 2022, the French Gendarmerie in Strasbourg initiated an investigation against a criminal network involved in the smuggling of migrants from Serbia into the EU. The criminal network was mainly active across the Serbian-Hungarian and Greek-Turkish borders. However, smuggling operations linked to this network were also detected at intra-Schengen borders, notably at the Austrian-Hungarian and the Austrian-Croatian…

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Agence française de développement commits additional €3 million to Africa Digital Financial Inclusion Facility to boost digital financial inclusion

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    PARIS, France, April 10, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The Agence française de développement (AFD) has committed an additional €3 million to the African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) -managed Africa Digital Financial Inclusion Facility (ADFI) (https://apo-opa.co/4iXF6xK) to accelerate financial inclusion in Africa. 

    The increase brings AFD’s total funding to over €5 million. The resources will support the ADFI partnership in catalyzing digital financial solutions across Africa by expanding investment in scalable and replicable initiatives that enable access to credit and other financial services that support investment and entrepreneurship among underserved communities. 

    The African Development Bank and AFD co-founded ADFI in 2019 with the Gates Foundation and the Ministry of Finance of the Government of Luxembourg. France’s Ministry for the Economy, Finance and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty, the Women’s Enterprise Finance Initiative (We-Fi), and India’s Ministry of Finance joined in 2020, 2022 and 2023 respectively.  

    AFD Group is strongly committed to accelerating the mobilization of financial and human resources to align the financial systems with the Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring that vulnerable populations—especially in regions most affected by climate change—can access financial tools that help them adapt and thrive.  

    “Developing digital financial services is a key pathway to reach financially excluded populations in Africa,” said Audrey Brule-Françoise, head of AFD’s Financial Systems Division. “Through our continued collaboration within ADFI, we aim to promote access to digital financial services that are tailored to diverse needs and delivered in a responsible manner. This new contribution will help scale up impactful and inclusive solutions.” 

    Mohamadou Ba, head of the African Development Bank’s Financial Intermediation and Inclusion Division, said, “Digital financial solutions are key to improving the quality of life of people in Africa and reducing the gender access to finance gap. We welcome the Agence française de développement’s renewed support of the catalytic role ADFI has been playing in accelerating greater access and usage of digital financial solutions and financial inclusion across the continent. We look forward to working together to scale our efforts to enhance the impact on greater economic empowerment, resilience, and growth across Africa.”  

    Recent data shows that nearly half the continent’s adult population does not benefit from digital financial solutions, particularly women, youth, farmers, small businesses, and rural communities. 

    ADFI works to expand digital financial solutions across Africa through strategic investments in digital infrastructure, policy and regulation, and product innovation, with a special focus on reducing gender gaps and building capacity. 

    ADFI aligns with the African Development Bank’s Ten-Year Strategy for inclusive growth and its priority to improve the quality of life for the people of Africa. It also advances the mandate of the Bank’s financial sector development department to improve access to finance for the underserved. ADFI works to scale innovative digital financial solutions under the three broad strategic pillars of infrastructure, policies, regulations, and product innovation. Capacity building and gender inclusion cut across all interventions. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £10k donation will help young musicians take to stage at Wulfrun Hall

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    It will enable 16 groups of young musicians from Wolverhampton Music Service to perform at the Wulfrun Hall at University of Wolverhampton at The Halls between 15 and 18 July, 2025.

    Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “We are very thankful for everything the Friends do to support Wolverhampton Music Service, and this incredible donation will enable our young musicians to perform at the city’s premier live music venue, The Halls.”

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

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

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

    Meanwhile, 431 young musicians from over 60 schools took to the stage last week for Wolverhampton Music Service’s latest Be inspired concerts.

    Over the course of 4 nights, they performed 79 pieces of music spanning the full repertoire – from classics, film, bands, orchestras choirs to rock and pop – in front of a collective audience of over 800 families and supporters.

    The concerts were also supported by the Friends of Wolverhampton Music Service, which will be holding another fundraiser next month. U2 vs Simple Minds will pay homage to the massively popular Irish and Scottish bands in the guise of tribute acts u2+1 and Alive & Kicking UK.

    The concert will take place at Wolverhampton Music School, Graiseley Hill, on Saturday 10 May, 2025, from 7.30pm and tickets, priced £20, are available now at Eventbrite.

    All proceeds will go to Wolverhampton Music Service, which delivers around 500 hours of tuition to nearly 7,000 children in 82 schools each week. It also runs 15 free ensembles enjoyed by over 500 children and young people each week, including the chance to perform with its flagship groups, Wolverhampton Youth Orchestra and Wolverhampton Youth Wind Orchestra. To find out more, please visit Wolverhampton Music Service.

    To make a one-off donation to the Friends and help support the invaluable work of the Music Service, please visit Friends of Wolverhampton Music Service.  People can also support the Friends in other ways, for instance serving refreshments or selling raffle tickets at concerts, which helps to ensure there is no ticket charge for any Music Service events. Find out more at Wolverhampton Music Service | Friends.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Members of HY5! enjoy tea with the Mayor

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    HY5! is a group of young people who know what it’s like to have additional needs and disabilities and have a passion to be the voice of change.

    The celebration, which was held at the Cherry Street Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) & Sensory Hub, was an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of HY5!, who were recently recognised at the SEND Programme’s Best Practice Awards 2025, sponsored by the NHS.

    The awards recognised outstanding best practice in health for children and young people with SEND who are making a difference to drive change. HY5! won in the Children and Young Person Voice for Change category.

    Mayor of Wolverhampton Councillor Linda Leach said: “It was a great pleasure to celebrate with HY5! on receiving this wonderful award. Here in Wolverhampton, we are very proud of HY5!, one of our many thriving youth forums.

    “The group is for young people aged 11-25 with additional needs and disabilities and this award was in recognition of how they are influencing, shaping and improving services for children and young people with SEND in our city.”

    Megan Baynham, chair of HY5!, said: “It’s an honour to be recognised for the work we all do to improve SEND in Wolverhampton. I feel it is a privilege to be a member of HY5!; I get to voice people’s views and opinions and make sure children and young people with SEND in Wolverhampton are heard in relation to improvements to meet their needs and make more places accessible.

    “It has inspired me to keep working hard with HY5! to deliver the inspiring training we have created for professionals to help them understand better the challenges that are faced daily to improve the services offered.”

    Councillor Jacqui Coogan, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, added: “The HY5! forum is a further example of the excellent work the City of Wolverhampton Council does to ensure the voice of young people is at the heart of services that it provides.”

    To find out more about HY5! and other opportunities for children and young people to make a difference, please visit Yo! Wolves | Get Involved.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hubble Helps Determine Uranus’ Rotation Rate with Unprecedented Precision

    Source: NASA

    An international team of astronomers using the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope has made new measurements of Uranus’ interior rotation rate with a novel technique, achieving a level of accuracy 1,000 times greater than previous estimates. By analyzing more than a decade of Hubble observations of Uranus’ aurorae, researchers have refined the planet’s rotation period and established a crucial new reference point for future planetary research.

    These images from the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope showcase the dynamic aurora on Uranus in October 2022. These observations were made by the Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph (STIS) and includes both visible and ultraviolet data. An international team of astronomers used Hubble to make new measurements of Uranus’ interior rotation rate by analyzing more than a decade of the telescope’s observations of Uranus’ aurorae. This refinement of the planet’s rotation period achieved a level of accuracy 1000 times greater than previous estimates and serves as a crucial new reference point for future planetary research.
    ESA/Hubble, NASA, L. Lamy, L. Sromovsky

    Determining a planet’s interior rotation rate is challenging, particularly for a world like Uranus, where direct measurements are not possible. A team led by Laurent Lamy (of LIRA, Observatoire de Paris-PSL and LAM, Aix-Marseille Univ., France), developed an innovative method to track the rotational motion of Uranus’ aurorae: spectacular light displays generated in the upper atmosphere by the influx of energetic particles near the planet’s magnetic poles. This technique revealed that Uranus completes a full rotation in 17 hours, 14 minutes, and 52 seconds — 28 seconds longer than the estimate obtained by NASA’s Voyager 2 during its 1986 flyby.
    “Our measurement not only provides an essential reference for the planetary science community but also resolves a long-standing issue: previous coordinate systems based on outdated rotation periods quickly became inaccurate, making it impossible to track Uranus’ magnetic poles over time,” explains Lamy. “With this new longitude system, we can now compare auroral observations spanning nearly 40 years and even plan for the upcoming Uranus mission.”

    This image of Uranus’ aurorae was taken by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope on 10 October 2022. These observations were made by the Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph (STIS) and includes both visible and ultraviolet data. An international team of astronomers used Hubble to make new measurements of Uranus’ interior rotation rate by analyzing more than a decade of the telescope’s observations of Uranus’ aurorae. This refinement of the planet’s rotation period achieved a level of accuracy 1000 times greater than previous estimates and serves as a crucial new reference point for future planetary research.
    ESA/Hubble, NASA, L. Lamy, L. Sromovsky

    This breakthrough was possible thanks to Hubble’s long-term monitoring of Uranus. Over more than a decade, Hubble has regularly observed its ultraviolet auroral emissions, enabling researchers to produce magnetic field models that successfully match the changing position of the magnetic poles with time.
    “The continuous observations from Hubble were crucial,” says Lamy. “Without this wealth of data, it would have been impossible to detect the periodic signal with the level of accuracy we achieved.”
    Unlike the aurorae of Earth, Jupiter, or Saturn, Uranus’ aurorae behave in a unique and unpredictable manner. This is due to the planet’s highly tilted magnetic field, which is significantly offset from its rotational axis. The findings not only help astronomers understand Uranus’ magnetosphere but also provide vital information for future missions.
    These findings set the stage for further studies that will deepen our understanding of one of the most mysterious planets in the Solar System. With its ability to monitor celestial bodies over decades, the Hubble Space Telescope continues to be an indispensable tool for planetary science, paving the way for the next era of exploration at Uranus.
    These results are based on observations acquired with Hubble programs GO #12601, 13012, 14036, 16313 and DDT #15380 (PI: L. Lamy). The team’s paper was published in Nature Astronomy.
    The Hubble Space Telescope has been operating for over three decades and continues to make ground-breaking discoveries that shape our fundamental understanding of the universe. Hubble is a project of international cooperation between NASA and ESA (European Space Agency). NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, manages the telescope and mission operations. Lockheed Martin Space, based in Denver, also supports mission operations at Goddard. The Space Telescope Science Institute in Baltimore, which is operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy, conducts Hubble science operations for NASA.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: As a global economic leader, California remains a stable, trusted partner for international trade and investment. Here’s why.

    Source: US State of California 2

    Apr 9, 2025

    What you need to know: As Washington, D.C. keeps changing the rules, California is standing strong as a steady and reliable international economic partner.

    SACRAMENTO – As President Trump’s economic agenda disrupts the national economy, sends markets spiraling, and creates trade wars with trusted partners, Governor Newsom announced last week that California is open for business. California’s economy remains the fifth largest in the world and will continue to push forward as a proven leader in global trade and investment. 

    “California knows the importance of trust and dependability, and unlike some folks in Washington D.C., we don’t change the rules with every presidential mood swing. California is a trusted, reliable partner for international trade and investments. We urge countries around the globe to continue to work with us — we’re open for business.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    California is a stable, predictable partner for global trade and investment. Here’s why the world should do business with the Golden State: 

    Global partnerships and open markets

    California has already established partnerships with countries around the world, strengthening the state’s world-leading economy and helping to ensure it maintains its position as the nation’s economic leader.
     

    California is a global powerhouse in international trade, with more than $675 billion in trade flowing in and out of the state annually — the equivalent to more than 16% of the state’s total GDP. While the state’s abundant agricultural products are sold in markets across the world, manufactured goods also dominate California exports, including computers (over $16 billion), aerospace parts and products (more than $8.3 billion), and semiconductor chips and equipment (nearly $6.5 billion). California is the nation’s top exporter in 25 sectors.
     

    The Golden State is also consistently the top state in jobs supported by foreign direct investment (FDI). The United Kingdom and Japan, the state’s number one and two sources of investment, respectively, collectively support more than 257,000 jobs. What’s more, California’s international allies also have a sizable impact on the state’s economy through significant institutional investments that support California jobs. For example, the 8 largest pension funds in Canada have more than $100 billion invested in California.

    Over the past few years, California has stepped up with partnerships on clean energy, technology, and climate with the European Union, as well as China and Canada — creating jobs, boosting local economies, and helping prepare the state for the future. 

    California currently has trade-focused partnerships with the following countries: Armenia, China, Japan, Norway, New Zealand, Netherlands, Australia, Sweden, Republic of Korea, Brazil, Mexico, and Norway. Many other climate-focused partnerships include expanding commercial ties with strategic allies, recognizing the importance of private sector action.
     

    Economic stability and predictability 

    California continues to establish industry partnerships and develop long-term economic strategies, building the infrastructure to give businesses confidence and consistency. 

    Earlier this year, Governor Newsom unveiled California’s statewide Economic Blueprint, a statewide plan built with input from 13 regional plans to drive sustainable economic growth, innovation, and access to good-paying jobs over the next decade.
     

    Proven economic growth and resilience

    California has rebounded from economic downturns faster than most, with diverse industries driving growth, from agriculture to AI. 

    And California’s economy shows no sign of slowing, based on the estimated growth of the 2,400 companies in the Bloomberg World Large & Mid Cap Index. The 101 companies based in California that are members of the index are poised to see revenue increasing 27% on average in 2024, while the 42 German companies will see 4.6% growth and the 156 Japanese firms 7%.

    While Washington, D.C. keeps changing the rules, the international community should know California will continue standing strong as a steady and reliable international economic partner for decades to come. 

    Recent news

    Apr 9, 2025

    News What you need to know: Ridership is up over 40% on the Bay Area’s recently electrified Caltrain, made possible by local, state, and federal investments supporting Governor Newsom’s goal to connect more Californians through sustainable public transportation….

    Apr 9, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom recognizes California’s resources and support for victims of crime during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. Sacramento, California – Showing support for survivors and victims of crime and highlighting the resources…

    Apr 9, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued the following statement responding to President Trump’s executive order targeting state-level climate and clean energy efforts. This is the world the Trump Administration wants your kids to live in. California’s…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Illegal money mule network grinds to a halt with Eurojust support

    Source: Eurojust

    By sending fake emails from legitimate enterprises, the scammers managed to defraud both individual customers and entire companies. This was mainly done by sending them genuine-looking emails with falsified invoiced that led the victims to pay into the perpetrators’ accounts. Currently there are 113 victims identified from several European countries, in particular from the United Kingdom.

    To launder the profits of this fraudulent scheme, the Romanian-based criminal group recruited hundreds of money mules. The recruits were sent to the United Kingdom to open bank accounts and further launder money by transferring the proceeds of the online fraud to the newly opened accounts. Some of the proceeds were also laundered remotely from Romania through the use of UK SIM cards, VPN connections and forged UK residence documents.

    From the UK accounts, the illegal proceeds were transferred to accounts in other countries or used for fake payments to UK companies. The money was also used to buy jewellery and other luxury items.

    Romanian authorities began investigating the criminal group in 2020, after noticing the online fraud, which dated back to 2018. Given the criminals’ connection to the United Kingdom, collaboration with the UK authorities was necessary.

    Through Eurojust, a cross-border investigation was initiated and a joint investigation team was set up. By organising coordination meetings with the authorities and providing financial support, Eurojust ensured that the cross-border investigation progressed smoothly. Europol provided extensive analytical, organisational and financial support in hosting several operational meetings at Europol’s headquarters. Experts from the European Financial and Economic Crime Centre (EFECC) also facilitated the exchange of information and participated in the JIT at Eurojust.

    The Romanian, British and French authorities, together with Eurojust and Europol, started planning the action day to take down the criminal group. The action day took place on 9 April. Authorities took preventative measures against 13 suspects, searched 31 places and took freezing measures on several properties in Romania. In the United Kingdom, seven suspects were arrested and five houses were searched. The investigation into the criminal group continues. On the action day, a Europol analyst was deployed on the spot in Romania to provide forensic and analytical support.

    The actions were carried out at the request of and by the following authorities:

    • Romania: Prosecutor’s Office attached to the High Court of Cassation and Justice; Directorate for Investigating Organised Crime and Terrorism; Buzau Territorial Service; Police Service of Combating Organised Crime Buzau
    • France: Regional Financial Crime Unit Court of Nanterre – Gendarmerie Nationale (SR Pau)
    • United Kingdom: Crown Prosecution Service; National Crime Agency

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Descartes Solution Streamlines Air Shipment Data Exchange with IATA’s ONE Record

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MUNICH, Germany and ATLANTA, April 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Descartes Systems Group (Nasdaq:DSGX) (TSX:DSG), the global leader in uniting logistics-intensive businesses in commerce, announced that the Descartes Air Messaging™ solution has streamlined the transmission of air shipment data according to the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) ONE Record messaging standard. IATA’s ONE Record initiative aims to help airlines, their partners and service providers digitize air cargo messaging services by January 1, 2026, replacing the traditional exchange of documents using Cargo-IMP and Cargo XML standards.

    “Lufthansa Cargo is committed to digitization initiatives and projects that better connect our customers to their stakeholders and that facilitate easier and faster transportation of air cargo shipments,” said Dr. Christian Lehr, Senior Director Global Fulfillment Development at Lufthansa Cargo. “The ability of Descartes’ solution to support the ONE Record standard is an important step in helping us provide customers with a more efficient, real-time data-sharing model using a single record for each shipment.”

    Designed specifically for the air cargo industry, Descartes Air Messaging™ supports a broad range of data standards and message specifications to share air shipment information across regional and global operations, including Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), such as ONE Record, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), and direct system-to-system connectivity. With more accurate and up-to-date air shipment information, the air cargo industry is better positioned to increase transparency, improve efficiency, and ultimately speed up the movement of freight.

    “We’re pleased to support the ONE Record standard,” said Scott Sangster, General Manager, Logistics Services Providers at Descartes. “Air industry customers have long relied on Descartes to provide a strong bridge with their trading partners in order to exchange air shipment information using traditional messaging standards. IATA’s ONE Record project presents a new opportunity to strengthen those relationships by supporting new ways in which air cargo data is shared and managed to streamline processes, reduce costs, and enhance the customer experience in air cargo operations.”

    Learn more about Descartes’ air cargo industry solutions.

    About Lufthansa Cargo

    Lufthansa Cargo is one of the world’s leading cargo airlines and part of the Lufthansa Group, Europe’s largest airline group. Through its four cargo hubs in Frankfurt, Munich, Brussels and Vienna, the airfreight specialist transports an average of 2,500 tons of freight per day. This is based on a strong and reliable airport-to-airport network that covers some 350 destinations in more than 100 countries. Lufthansa Cargo markets the cargo capacities of the passenger aircraft of Lufthansa Airlines, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Discover Airlines and SunExpress, as well as its own freighter fleet of 18 Boeing 777F and four Airbus A321F. In addition, some 300 trucks operate daily under a Lufthansa Cargo flight number. Together with its subsidiaries, Lufthansa Cargo offers customized, fast and efficient logistics solutions along the entire supply chain. In this way, the company fulfills its mission “Enabling Global Business” and connects markets and trading partners worldwide. Innovative technologies and investments in sustainability play a central role. In addition to a modern fleet and the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), the focus is on continuous optimization of flight operations. In 2024, the company generated revenues of 3.26 billion euros and a transport performance of 8.5 billion freight tonne-kilometers. It currently employs approximately 4,200 people worldwide.

    About Descartes

    Descartes (Nasdaq:DSGX) (TSX:DSG) is the global leader in providing on-demand, software-as-a-service solutions focused on improving the productivity, security and sustainability of logistics-intensive businesses. Customers use our modular, software-as-a-service solutions to route, track and help improve the safety, performance and compliance of delivery resources; plan, allocate and execute shipments; rate, audit and pay transportation invoices; access global trade data; file customs and security documents for imports and exports; and complete numerous other logistics processes by participating in the world’s largest, collaborative multimodal logistics community. Our headquarters are in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada and we have offices and partners around the world. Learn more at www.descartes.com, and connect with us on LinkedIn and Twitter.

    Global Media Contact
    Cara Strohack, VP Marketing Communications
    cstrohack@descartes.com  

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws (“forward-looking statements”) that relate to Descartes’ air industry solution offerings and potential benefits derived therefrom; and other matters. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements or developments expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to, the factors and assumptions discussed in the section entitled, “Certain Factors That May Affect Future Results” in documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Ontario Securities Commission and other securities commissions across Canada including Descartes’ most recently filed management’s discussion and analysis. If any such risks actually occur, they could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. In that case, the trading price of our common shares could decline, perhaps materially. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. Forward-looking statements are provided for the purposes of providing information about management’s current expectations and plans relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. We do not undertake or accept any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect any change in our expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based, except as required by law.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Immigration Department wins 2025 Skytrax Award for Best Airport Immigration Service (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Immigration Department wins 2025 Skytrax Award for Best Airport Immigration Service     
         On April 9 (Madrid time), the Director of Immigration, Mr Benson Kwok, attended the prize presentation ceremony held in Madrid, Spain. Mr Kwok stated that the department was honoured to receive the prestigious Skytrax Award for Best Airport Immigration Service for the fifth time, which affirms the ImmD’s commitment to delivering the highest quality of immigration clearance services. The ImmD expressed gratitude to Skytrax and international travellers for their recognition, as well as to its frontline staff for their professionalism and dedication. The ImmD will continue striving for excellence by leveraging innovative technologies to introduce more facilitation measures and deliver the best immigration services to passengers, with a view to reinforce Hong Kong’s status as an international aviation hub while actively supporting the city’s overall development.

         Skytrax, a world-renowned specialist research agent and advisor of the air transport industry, mainly undertakes qualitative audits and research studies for airports and airlines services across the globe. The survey was conducted between August 2024 and February 2025, covering over 600 airports worldwide, and the survey questionnaires were collected from over 13 million air passengers of more than 100 nationalities on their ratings of airport service.Issued at HKT 15:11

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESENTATION OF CREDENTIALS OF THE AMBASSADOR-DESIGNATE OF THE ARAB REPUBLIC OF EGYPT TO THE INDEPENDENT STATE OF SAMOA

    Source:

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    [PRESS RELEASE – Wednesday 2 April 2025] – His Excellency Mr. George Azer Saleeb Tadros presented his Letter of Credence to the Head of State, Afioga Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II at a presentation of credential ceremony held this morning accrediting him as the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Arab Republic of Egypt to Samoa.

    Samoa and Egypt have enjoyed cordial relations since the establishment of diplomatic relations in September 1978. During the ceremony, H.E Tadros underscored the partnership between Egypt and Samoa in addressing the common challenge of climate change, noting our collaborative efforts, particularly during the 2022 Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP27), hosted by Egypt.

    In his responding remarks, Afioga Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II commends Egypt for its leadership and commitment to climate change action and to working together with global partners to find solutions to assist Small Islands Developing states including Samoa and the Pacific region. The Head of State expressed confidence that the appointment of His Excellency will further strengthen the existing relations between our two nations and will yield productive and beneficial collaborations.

    His Excellency Mr. George Azer Saleeb Tadros holds a Master (first part) of Cardiology and Intensive Care, and a Bachelor degree of Medicine and surgery. He also attended the Institute of diplomatic studies of the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1998. Mr. George is a career diplomat who served in various positions within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Egypt. He also served in Egypt’s diplomatic missions including as a Diplomatic attaché in Japan and Korea, as Third Secretary at the Embassy in Maputo, Mozambique, as Second Secretary in Athens, Greece, Counselor in Ankara, Turkey and as Deputy Chief of Mission in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. . Mr. George Azer Saleeb Tadros was appointed as the Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to New Zealand in November 2023. Mr. Tadros is married and has one daughter.

    END

    Photo by the Government of Samoa (Jasmine Netzler-Iose)

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESENTATION OF CREDENTIALS OF THE AMBASSADOR OF THE PORTUGUESE REPUBLIC TO THE INDEPENDENT STATE OF SAMOA

    Source:

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    [PRESS RELEASE – Thursday 27 March 2025] – His Excellency Mr. Antonio Albuquerque Moniz presented his Letters of Credence to the Head of State of the Independent State of Samoa, Afioga Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aletoa Sualauvi II, at a Credentials Ceremony held this morning at the Official Residence of the Head of State at Vailele, accrediting His Excellency as the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Portugal to Samoa with residence in Canberra, Australia.

    Samoa and Portugal have enjoyed cordial relations since the establishment of formal ties on 9 June 1995. The two countries collaborate in multilateral fora, including the United Nations, to address global challenges such as climate change, ocean governance, and sustainable development. Ambassador Moniz reaffirmed Portugal’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Samoa, highlighting Portugal’s ongoing support for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and its engagement in the Pacific region through its application to become a Dialogue Partner of the Pacific Islands Forum.

    Afioga Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aletoa Sualauvi II welcomed the Ambassador and acknowledged the growing partnership between Samoa and Portugal. He expressed appreciation for Portugal’s advocacy on climate action and ocean conservation, as well as its contributions to international development initiatives that align with Samoa’s priorities. The Head of State conveyed his confidence that Ambassador Moniz’s tenure will further enhance the friendship and cooperation between our two countries.

    H.E. Mr. Antonio Albuquerque Moniz holds a Bachelor’s degree in Law from the University of Lisbon. He joined Portugal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1991 and held various senior positions, including Head of Visa Services and Movement of Persons within the Directorate-General for Consular Affairs. His diplomatic career includes postings at Portugal’s missions in Vienna and Warsaw, as well as serving as Deputy Head of Mission in Berlin. In 2015, he was appointed Consul General at Portugal’s Consulate in Paris. He later served as Portugal’s Ambassador to Cape Verde in 2020 before assuming his current role as Ambassador of Portugal to Australia in 2023. Mr Antonio A. Moniz is married and has one daughter.

    END

    SOURCE – Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade

    Photos by the Government of Samoa (Leaosa Faaifo Faaifo)

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The use of diesel particulate filters by consumers and businesses in small EU Member States – E-001368/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001368/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Alex Agius Saliba (S&D)

    This question follows an exchange with the former EU Commissioner for Consumer Rights, Didier Reynders, in April 2023 during a meeting of Parliament’s Internal Market Committee. The issue is the use of diesel particulate filters (DPFs) by consumers and businesses in small Member States.

    DPFs do not have the same benefits when used in countries where only short distances are covered, such as Malta, because they do not have the technology to be clean themselves automatically, as they do when vehicles are used over longer distances. This reduces the engine’s efficiency significantly and results in additional costs for the owners of these vehicles, who have to periodically replace these expensive filters.

    • 1.Given that the overwhelming majority of these filters cannot even be cleaned, thus obliging consumers to buy new ones, are there possibilities in EU law to make it mandatory for it to be possible to open filters in diesel engine cars for regular cleaning?
    • 2.When setting diesel vehicle norms, such as the Euro standards, does the Commission take into consideration that there are Member States in which consumers do not drive long distances?
    • 3.More specifically, could the cleaning of DPFs be enforced as part of the circular economy initiatives, such as the Directive on common rules promoting the repair of goods?

    Submitted: 2.4.2025

    Last updated: 10 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The major shortages in staff and flight safety systems under the EU’s Single European Sky initiative – E-000764/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. Most Member States own the designated Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs). This is also the case in Greece, where the Hellenic Aviation Service Provider (HASP) is part of the Ministry for Infrastructure, Transport and Networks. Since ANSPs are monopolistic service providers, they are subject to economic regulation. The regulation requires the setting of binding targets for the key performance areas of safety, capacity, environment and cost-efficiency. ANSPs shall put in place the necessary measures to reach these targets, including via hiring of staff and via investments. With regard to profits, as referred to by the Honourable Member, the legislation in force[1] allows for ‘a reasonable return on assets’.

    2. The Single European Sky regulatory framework aims at putting in place rules that contribute to a safe, sustainable and efficient air traffic management system in the EU. Very importantly, the application of this framework is without prejudice to Member States’ sovereignty over their airspace. This sovereignty also applies to the way in which Member States coordinate operations between civil and military users, who are sharing the same airspace. In the case of larger cross-border military exercises, the Eurocontrol Network Manager — appointed by the Commission — typically offers to assist ANSPs in planning such events.

    • [1] Article 29.3 of Regulation (EU) 2024/2803: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/2803/oj/eng
    Last updated: 10 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Agricultural policy comments during Grüne Woche – E-000596/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is convinced that agricultural production and nature preservation must go hand in hand to face climate change by improving water resilience and give young farmers a farming future. Balance between agriculture and nature has both an EU and a national dimension.

    The present Common Agricultural Policy (CAP)[1] and existing environmental and climate acquis, provide a solid legal framework for Member States to identify fit for purpose targets, based on National Strategic Plans, offering them more margin for manoeuvre than before.

    Member States have designed tailor-made interventions in their CAP Strategic Plans (CSPs) which also target livestock-related pollution. Eco-Schemes and Agri-Environmental and Climate Commitments support interventions to improve water quality and nutrient management, addressing manure surplus, on 21% and 15.5% of EU farmland[2] respectively.

    Other interventions include livestock density adjustments, aiming at reducing Greenhouse Gases, water and air (ammonia) emissions (for example, the Luxembourgish CSP[3] offers financial aid to less intensive animal husbandry systems).

    In his speech during the Grüne Woche[4] (Green Week), the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food reflected on targeted territorial solutions for balancing the livestock sector’s competitiveness with environmental sustainability, as published later in the Commission’s Vision for Agriculture and Food[5].

    This approach includes maintaining grasslands, valorising the link with carbon sinks and improved water resilience, as well as more extensive systems beneficial in preserving biodiversity while reducing negative externalities.

    • [1] https://agriculture.ec.europa.eu/common-agricultural-policy/cap-overview/cap-glance_en
    • [2] https://agridata.ec.europa.eu/extensions/DashboardCapPlan/result_indicators.html
    • [3] https://agriculture.ec.europa.eu/document/download/a534870e-10e8-4178-bbdb-efc16b0485d0_en?filename=csp-at-a-glance-luxembourg-en.pdf
    • [4] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/speech_25_460
    • [5] https://agriculture.ec.europa.eu/overview-vision-agriculture-food_en
    Last updated: 10 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Use of EU funds by Carris – E-002558/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission confirms that, according to the Portuguese authorities, cohesion policy funding was recently decided for Carris to support the acquisition of rolling stock (articulated trams) to enhance Lisbon’s public transport service.

    The total cost of the operation was EUR 40.6 million, with a contribution from the Cohesion Fund through the programme Sustentável 2030[1] of EUR 29.5 million. The conditions for using the funds are in line with the eligibility rules of the programme and the provisions of the cohesion policy regulations.

    The additionality principle was included in Article 95 of Regulation (EU) 1303/2013[2], which governed the implementation of cohesion policy in the 2014 to 2020 programming period. The principle is no longer included in the regulation (EU) 2021/1060[3], which governs implementation in the 2021 to 2027 period.

    Carris is also receiving funding under Portugal’s recovery and resilience plan[4] (RRP), which includes two investments related to tenders by Fundo Ambiental. Investment C15-i05 aims to purchase zero emission buses and charging infrastructure in Lisbon and Porto Metropolitan Areas.

    Carris was selected for 33 buses and charging stations and received EUR 6.38 million from the RRP. With Investment C21-i12, Carris aims to acquire 44 buses and charging stations, receiving EUR 11 million from the RRP. The investment is expected to be completed in 2026.

    The additionality principle[5] ensures that support under the Recovery and Resilience Facility is additional to other EU programs and instruments.

    • [1] https://sustentavel2030.gov.pt/
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2013/1303/oj/eng
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/1060/oj/eng
    • [4] https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/economic-recovery/recovery-and-resilience-facility/country-pages/portugals-recovery-and-resilience-plan_en
    • [5] Article 9 Regulation (EU) 2021/241.
    Last updated: 10 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Implementation of the measures imposed by the ECtHR judgment on the management of the environmental emergency in Campania’s ‘Land of Fires’ – E-000763/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Concerning implementation of the judgments of the European Court of Human Rights, EU Member States — Parties to the European Convention on Human Rights — are responsible to implement these judgments in their jurisdictions.

    In relation to the implementation of EU legislation, in 2015 the Court of Justice of the European Union[1] ruled that Italy had to pay a daily penalty of EUR 120 000 for failure to establish the infrastructure necessary for the treatment of the municipal waste generated in the Campania region[2].

    The Commission is closely monitoring the implementation of the ruling and the payment of the penalty. In 2021, progress has been made in Campania on the incineration capacity and the daily penalty has been reduced[3]. Discussions are currently ongoing on the regional capacity for landfill and the organic fraction.

    So far, Italy has paid EUR 325 760 000 in fines. The Commission will pursue its enforcement action to ensure that the Italian authorities take all the necessary measures to comply with the Court’s ruling.

    Under the current cohesion policy[4], the European Regional Development Fund[5] allows for investments in soil decontamination and remediation, rehabilitation of industrial sites and contaminated land, including old and illegal landfill sites, provided the investment does not increase the capacity of the landfills[6].

    State aid rules and the ‘polluter pays principle’[7] must be respected. Disposal of waste in landfill is legally excluded from support[8].

    More specifically, the Campania Regional Programme 2021-2027[9] promotes interventions for the remediation and environmental protection of areas concerned with waste abandonment and illegal disposal in accordance with the priorities laid down in the regional remediation plan (around EUR 35 million).

    • [1] Case C-653 /13, in the framework of infringement INFR(2007)2195: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A62013CJ0653
    • [2] The decision also covers the treatment of the historical waste (known as ‘ecoballe’).
    • [3] To EUR 80 000 per day.
    • [4] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/policy/what/investment-policy_en
    • [5] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/funding/erdf_en
    • [6] Article 7(1)(f)(ii) of Regulation (EU) 2021/1058 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 June 2021 on the European Regional Development Fund and on the Cohesion Fund PE/48/2021/INIT OJ L 231, 30.6.2021, p. 60-93.
    • [7] Article 191(2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. According to this principle, those responsible for environmental damage should pay to cover the costs. This applies to prevention of pollution, remediation, liability (criminal, civil and environmental liability) and the costs imposed on society of pollution that does happen.
    • [8] Except for investments for decommissioning, reconverting or making safe existing landfills provided that such investments do not increase their capacity.
    • [9] https://europa.regione.campania.it/en/approvazione-del-programma-regionale-pr-campania-fse-2021-2027/ https://europa.regione.campania.it/en/programma-regionale-campania-fesr-21-27/
    Last updated: 10 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Judicial reforms in Spain – E-000103/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    As the Commission noted in its Rule of Law Reports[1], the organisation of national prosecution services varies across the EU, without there being a single model for all Member States.

    The structure and status of the national prosecution systems is a competence of the Member States. However, institutional safeguards should be in place to guarantee that the prosecution is sufficiently autonomous and can carry out effective and impartial investigations without political interference.

    On the reform of third-party intervention, the Commission is following closely the discussions in Spain.

    The Commission is working with all Member States, including Spain, to uphold and promote the rule of law in the framework of the Rule of Law Mechanism.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/62fdb34b-78d4-4d53-b9ea-67286facc01e_en?filename=23_1_52576_coun_chap_spain_en.pdf
      and https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/2bd09a6f-ef56-494a-8303-e0de808ee981_en?filename=23_1_58063_coun_chap_spain_en_0.pdf
    Last updated: 10 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Modification of ERDF and ESF + Operational Programmes 2021-2027 following RESTORE – E-000921/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission has not received any request to divert the European Social Fund Plus and the European Regional Development Fund to sustain the reconstruction efforts following the damage caused by the natural disaster, especially in Valencia.

    The Commission is informed that the Spanish authorities are working to determine the appropriate allocation, taking into consideration the ongoing mid-term review aimed at evaluating the progress of the 2021-2027 programmes.

    The regional and national authorities can seize this opportunity to introduce the new specific objective RESTORE[1] in the new version of the programmes, which are expected to be submitted to the Commission by 24 June 2025.

    The RESTORE amendment proposals expected to be submitted by the Spanish authorities will detail the objectives and the financial allocations for reconstruction in the cohesion policy programmes. They will need to be approved by the Commission, in line with the funds’ regulations.

    On 20 January 2025, the Spanish authorities submitted an application for financial assistance from the EU Solidarity Fund (EUSF)[2] and requested an advance payment.

    As the application is eligible for EUSF assistance, on 31 March 2025, the Commission disbursed an advance payment of EUR 100 million to Spain. This is the maximum amount allowed under the EUSF as advance payment.

    • [1] As outlined in the regulation (EU) 2024/3236 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 December 2024 amending Regulations (EU) 2021/1057 and (EU) 2021/1058 as regards Regional Emergency Support to Reconstruction (RESTORE).
    • [2] Council Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002 of 11 November 2002 establishing the European Union Solidarity Fund (OJ L 311, 14.11.2002, p. 3) as amended by Regulation (EU) No 661/2014 of the European Parliament and the Council of 15 May 2014 (OJ L 189, 27.6.2014, p. 143) and by Regulation (EU) 2020/461 of the European Parliament and the Council of 30 March 2020 (OJ L 99, 31.3.2020, p. 9).) https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:32002R2012
    Last updated: 10 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Strategies to attract US researchers to the EU – E-001337/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001337/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Joachim Streit (Renew)

    The current research policy of the US administration under Donald Trump has left scientists facing uncertainty and restrictions, including massive budget cuts and limitations on the freedom of scientific research. As a result, ten EU Member States, including Germany and France, have stressed the need for targeted support measures and facilitated immigration provisions in order to attract affected researchers to the EU. Several EU regions could benefit from this inflow of talent, provided that appropriate structures are in place. However, the challenge lies in effectively integrating these scientists into the EU’s research landscape and making use of their expertise on a long-term basis.

    • 1.How does the Commission plan to integrate international scientists into existing European research structures and harness their know-how for regional innovation hubs?
    • 2.Is there a specific timeline for measures aiming to bring these researchers into the EU and ensuring their long-term affiliation with our research sites?
    • 3.What financial or structural incentives are envisaged to support regions that could particularly benefit from the relocation of researchers from non-EU countries?

    Submitted: 1.4.2025

    Last updated: 10 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Reciprocity of health and environmental standards on the EU horticulture market – E-001338/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001338/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Anne-Sophie Frigout (PfE), Malika Sorel (PfE), Julien Sanchez (PfE), Pierre Pimpie (PfE)

    Against a backdrop of high demand for cut flowers, an investigation by UFC-Que Choisir has revealed that some flowers sold in France are covered in pesticides that are banned in the EU. A single bouquet can contain residues of up to 46 pesticides, and this poses health risks, in particular an increased risk of cancer.

    Over 80 % of cut flowers on the French market are imported from third countries, including Colombia, Ecuador and Kenya. However, many dangerous pesticides that are banned in the EU are still used in those countries. This creates unfair competition that weakens the French horticulture sector, as it is subject to much stricter regulations.

    Will the Commission ensure reciprocity of health and environmental standards in the horticulture sector by banning imports of flowers treated with pesticides that are banned in the EU?

    Supporters[1]

    Submitted: 1.4.2025

    • [1] This question is supported by Members other than the authors: Mathilde Androuët (PfE), Valérie Deloge (PfE)
    Last updated: 10 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Call for consistency in the gambling sector – E-001371/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001371/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Peter Agius (PPE)

    Since the Commission’s step back from infringement proceedings on gambling in 2017, Member States have imposed domestic barriers that hinder free movement, which is now leading to a surreal state of conflicting court rulings in different jurisdictions, with little recourse to references for preliminary rulings.

    This is painfully demonstrated in judgments recently handed down by Maltese and Austrian courts regarding losing bidders’ actions for reimbursement.

    This legal jungle solely benefits illegal operators, who now enjoy the biggest market share in online gambling.

    This clearly exposes players to greater risks, since rogue traders are unfettered by player protection rules.

    Third-party litigation funding (TPLF) bids are flourishing, exploiting fragmentation and consumer vulnerability, which further destabilise the market.

    Given the significant risks to consumers, EU jobs and EU competitiveness, can the Commission:

    • 1.express itself on the situation described, as well as on the urgent need for the rule of EU law in gaming through active enforcement of single market rules, thus ensuring regulatory consistency, safeguarding free movement and protecting consumers within the single market?
    • 2.express itself on the need to act on Parliament’s formal calls to regulate TPLF practices?

    Supporter[1]

    Submitted: 1.4.2025

    • [1] This question is supported by a Member other than the author: Michalis Hadjipantela (PPE)
    Last updated: 10 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin to travel to Slovenia

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin will travel to Slovenia on 11 April for a one-day bilateral visit. The programme includes talks with the prime minister and the minister for economic affairs, visits to Swiss companies and discussions with the business community. Mr Parmelin will also sign the bilateral implementation agreement relating to Switzerland’s second contribution to Slovenia.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: OLAF and EPPO jointly uncover 9.5 million fraud and money laundering scheme

    Source: European Anti-Fraud Offfice

    Press release no.7/2025
    PDF version 

    This press release is also available in Romanian.

    The European Anti-fraud Office (OLAF) played a key role in investigating a sophisticated fraud and money laundering scheme involving European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) resources, with an estimated financial impact of EUR 9.5 million. 

    OLAF’s investigation started following a request from the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) regarding suspected EU fraud, document forgery, and money laundering in an IT project in Romania. The EU financial support, intended to develop an innovative IT platform, was in reality exploited by an organised group to fraudulently obtain the EU funds and launder the proceeds of crime. 

    OLAF’s investigative activities, conducted in close cooperation with EPPO, included several on the spot checks in Cyprus and Czechia, along with operational intelligence analysis of the IT platforms developed under the EU project. As a result of the investigative cooperation, EPPO has indicted 12 defendants—six individuals and six legal entities—on charges of EU fraud and money laundering.

    “Good news for European taxpayers and Europe’s digital transformation. This investigation is another excellent result of the close cooperation between OLAF and the EPPO. Fraud knows no borders and conducting cross-border investigations is essential: not only for protecting the EU’s financial interests but also safeguarding Europe’s digital transformation and a fair economy that works for all”, said Ville Itälä, OLAF Director-General. 

    Sophisticated money-laundering network 

    The evidence gathered points to a sophisticated and structured money-laundering scheme, orchestrated by a network of individuals and companies across Romania, Cyprus, Czechia, and the United Arab Emirates. OLAF’s investigation helped to determine that the group operated systematically, with each member playing a specific role in the criminal acquisition of EU taxpayers’ money and laundering the proceeds of crime.

    The funds were diverted through fictitious contracts before being used for personal enrichment. Operational intelligence analysis revealed suspicious banking transactions spanning multiple jurisdictions, including  Cyprus, Czechia, France, Germany, Hungary, Monaco, Romania, Russia, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United States. 

    OLAF shared its final report with EPPO and issued a financial recommendation to the European Commission to recover the suspected misappropriated funds. Subsequently, in November 2023, EPPO conducted 38 searches, seizing significant evidence. OLAF then analysed seized IT servers, which revealed that the same network had also been using the same modus operandi in another ERDF funded project implemented by another private company part of the group, which also fed into the EPPO’s case. 

    For more information, please see the EPPO’s press release.

    OLAF mission, mandate and competences:

    OLAF’s mission is to detect, investigate and stop fraud with EU funds.    

    OLAF fulfils its mission by:
    •    carrying out independent investigations into fraud and corruption involving EU funds, so as to ensure that all EU taxpayers’ money reaches projects that can create jobs and growth in Europe;
    •    contributing to strengthening citizens’ trust in the EU Institutions by investigating serious misconduct by EU staff and members of the EU Institutions;
    •    developing a sound EU anti-fraud policy.

    In its independent investigative function, OLAF can investigate matters relating to fraud, corruption and other offences affecting the EU financial interests concerning:
    •    all EU expenditure: the main spending categories are Structural Funds, agricultural policy and rural development funds, direct expenditure and external aid;
    •    some areas of EU revenue, mainly customs duties;
    •    suspicions of serious misconduct by EU staff and members of the EU institutions.

    Once OLAF has completed its investigation, it is for the competent EU and national authorities to examine and decide on the follow-up of OLAF’s recommendations. All persons concerned are presumed to be innocent until proven guilty in a competent national or EU court of law.

    For further details:

    Pierluigi CATERINO
    Spokesperson
    European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF)
    Phone: +32(0)2 29-52335  
    Email: olaf-media ec [dot] europa [dot] eu (olaf-media[at]ec[dot]europa[dot]eu)
    https://anti-fraud.ec.europa.eu
    LinkedIn: European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF)
    Bluesky: euantifraud.bsky.social
    If you’re a journalist and you wish to receive our press releases in your inbox, pleaseleave us your contact data.
     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Details on Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan – E-000209/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The health mission of Italy’s Recovery and Resilience Plan includes EUR 524 million aimed at strengthening biomedical research within the National Health Service[1], including funding research on rare cancers.

    The EU4Health Programme[2] supports Member States with the implementation of the EU Cancer Plan, including through direct grants to Member States for specific actions.

    The structure of the projects, allocation of tasks, and funding is under the remit of the participating Member State authorities. Consequently, the Commission is not in a position to assess how EU funding is aligned with existing national funding programmes.

    The European Cancer Inequalities Registry[3] highlights inequalities in cancer prevention and care across EU countries. It helps Member States identify areas for action at national and regional level. Member State representatives, including from Italy, are regularly consulted on the initiative.

    As part of the European Semester[4] the Commission evaluates the Italian health system performance and engages with Italian authorities on priority areas for improvement.

    Some of the investments in Italy’s Recovery and Resilience Plan aim to reduce territorial disparities by creating a new model for the Territorial healthcare assistance network, including the setup of Community Health Houses, Community Hospitals and Territorial Coordination Centres.

    The national programme ‘Health Equity’ (EUR 375 million in EU funding) aims to strengthen healthcare services in less developed regions and make the access to health services more equitable.

    It focuses on ensuring access to oncological screening programmes by identifying populations in socioeconomic vulnerability, living in remote or disadvantaged areas.

    • [1] Investment M6C2 number 2.1 ‘Strengthening and enhancement of the NHS biomedical research’.
    • [2] EU4Health — European Commission https://commission.europa.eu/funding-tenders/find-funding/eu-funding-programmes/eu4health_en
    • [3] European Cancer Inequalities Registry (ECIR) https://cancer-inequalities.jrc.ec.europa.eu/
    • [4] European Semester documents for Italy https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/european-semester/european-semester-your-country/european-semester-documents-italy_en
    Last updated: 10 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ASEAN and UK Senior Officials Review Relations and Discuss Future Plans

    Source: ASEAN

    DA NANG, 10 April 2025 –Senior Officials of ASEAN and the United Kingdom reaffirmed their commitment to intensifying the ASEAN-UK Dialogue Partnership and strengthen collaboration in mutually beneficial areas at the 4th ASEAN-UK Senior Officials’ Meeting (AUKSOM) in Da Nang, Viet Nam today.

    Both sides welcomed the robust implementation of the ASEAN-UK Plan of Action (POA) 2022-2026, with nearly 95 percent having been or currently being addressed, and which would serve as a strong foundation for developing a successor document. ASEAN also welcomed the progress in the UK’s five flagship cooperation programmes.

    The Senior Officials discussed cooperation areas that ASEAN and the UK could further explore across the three ASEAN Community pillars. Under the political-security pillar, both sides agreed to deepen cooperation on maritime security, cybersecurity, transnational crime, counterterrorism, Women, Peace and Security as well as Youth, Peace and Security.

    Under the economic pillar, ASEAN and the UK commited to enhancing collaboration on economic integration, digital economy, artificial intelligence, science, technology and innovation, financial services, green finance, supply chain resilience, energy transition, business-to-business partnerships and women economic empowerment.

    Under the socio-cultural pillar, both sides stand ready to deepen collaboration on education and skills development, climate change, health, disaster risk reduction, creative economy and cultural exchanges, and people-to-people exchanges.

    On cross-pillar cooperation, ASEAN and the UK noted the potential to cooperate on Connectivity, smart cities and sustainable urban development, waste management, the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) and Narrowing Development Gaps.

    Both sides committed to the operationalisation of the  ASEAN-UK Joint Ministerial Statement on Connectivity. In this regard, the Senior Officials appreciated Viet Nam and the UK for jointly hosting the ASEAN-UK Connectivity Dialogue, which was held following the conclusion of the 4th AUKSOM.

    ASEAN and the UK also exchanged views on regional and international issues of common interest and concern, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to upholding multilateralism and strengtening the ASEAN-led regional architecture, including through the implementation of  the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP).

    Looking ahead to the fifth anniversary of the ASEAN-UK Dialogue Partnership in 2026, both sides looked forward to commemorating the occasion with meaningful activities.

    The 4th AUKSOM was co-chaired by H.E. Do Hung Viet, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and ASEAN SOM Leader of Viet Nam and H.E. Owen Jenkins, Director-General, Indo-Pacific and the ASEAN SOM Leader of the UK. It was attended by ASEAN SOM Leaders or their representatives, the Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for ASEAN Political-Security Community, their respective delegations and officials from the FCDO. Timor-Leste attended as Observer.

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    The post ASEAN and UK Senior Officials Review Relations and Discuss Future Plans appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –