NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOFA response to social media post by German Foreign Office expressing concern over China’s military exercises around Taiwan

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    MOFA response to social media post by German Foreign Office expressing concern over China’s military exercises around Taiwan

    Date：2025-04-04
    Data Source：Department of European Affairs

    April 4, 2025

    On April 2, the Federal Foreign Office of Germany posted a message on the social media platform X pointing out that China’s military exercises around Taiwan had increased tensions and were a cause of concern. It stated that stability in the Taiwan Strait was paramount for regional and global security and also affected prosperity in Europe. The Foreign Office underlined that the status quo could only be changed through peaceful means and by mutual agreement, and not by force or coercion.

    Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung sincerely thanks the government of Germany for its continued attention to cross-strait peace and stability and for this further expression of concern over China’s military drills. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs underscores that Taiwan, as a responsible member of the international community, will continue to work with like-minded partners to jointly defend the rules-based international order. It joins other nations in calling on China to exercise self-restraint, stop threatening Taiwan, and cease its unilateral attempts to escalate regional tensions. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: One million NHS staff to benefit from new support measures

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    One million NHS staff to benefit from new support measures

    Government delivers on promise to support frontline staff with new action to tackle violence, improve working lives and enhance career progression

    • Measures include improved reporting and prevention of violence and aggression in the workplace as incidents against healthcare workers reach alarming levels
    • New measures will make sure staff are paid correctly for the work they are asked to deliver

    Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting, will today announce a comprehensive support package to tackle violence and improve the working lives of NHS staff.

    The measures are part of a range of recommendations accepted by the government under the Agenda for Change contract – which covers over a million frontline NHS workers – following the agreement of the 2023 pay deal.

    Violence against healthcare workers has become a critical issue, with the 2024 NHS Staff Survey revealing that one in seven experienced physical violence from patients, their relatives or other members of the public.

    A quarter of NHS staff experienced at least one incident of harassment, bullying or abuse in the last 12 months. Many incidents currently go unreported, hampering efforts to address the problem systematically.

    New measures will be put in place to encourage staff to report incidents of violence or aggression towards them, and to ensure this information is collected at national level. Data will also be analysed to better understand if certain staff groups – whether by race, gender, disability status, or role – face disproportionate risks, allowing trusts to protect the most vulnerable workers.

    In a keynote speech to UNISON’s National Health Care Service Group Conference in Liverpool, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, said:

    No one should go to work fearing violence. Yet one in every seven people employed by the NHS have suffered violence at the hands of patients, their relatives, or other members of the public.

    Protecting staff from violence is not an optional extra. Zero tolerance for violence and harassment of NHS staff. It’s a commitment to make sure healthcare workers can focus on saving lives without fear for their own safety.

    I owe my life to the NHS staff who cared for me through kidney cancer. I owe a debt of gratitude that I will never be able to repay, but I certainly intend to try. You were there for me, and I’ll be there for you.

    The package of measures will also address longstanding issues around ensuring staff are paid correctly for the work they deliver. Staff being routinely required to work beyond their job description with no compensation has led to a number of local disputes, such as those relating to clinical support worker roles in the Midlands at Kettering General Hospital and University Hospitals of Leicester.

    The Department of Health and Social Care is working closely with NHS England, NHS Employers and the Staff Council to implement a national digital system to support the fair and consistent application of the Job Evaluation Scheme.

    This will ensure staff are placed in the appropriate pay band recognising the skills and knowledge required for the role.

    Further measures include:

    • enhanced career progression support for nurses such as more learning and development, leadership training and career coaching for managers
    • new guidance for employers on how to recognise overseas experience on appointment into the NHS and share best practice on recruitment and selection processes
    • steps to reduce reliance on expensive agency workers by making it easier for NHS staff to take up flexible working and developing good practice guidance on working patterns for existing staff
    • encouraging six-month career reviews tailored specifically for ethnic minority nurses to identify progression pathways and provide targeted interview preparation support

    In total, 36 recommendations have been accepted by ministers. These measures are expected to have a considerable and positive impact on the NHS workforce, improve staff morale and enhance recruitment and retention.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ajay Sharma named new British High Commissioner to Malaysia

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    World news story

    Ajay Sharma named new British High Commissioner to Malaysia

    Mr Ajay Sharma CMG has been appointed British High Commissioner to Malaysia in succession to Ms Ailsa Terry CMG.

    Mr Ajay Sharma CMG

    This is Ajay’s fourth Head of Mission role. He was the UK Chargé d’affaires to Iran from 2013 to 2015, the British Ambassador to Qatar from 2015 to 2020 and Chargé d’affaires to Turkey from 2022 to 2023. Ajay has also served in Moscow and in Paris as the Deputy Ambassador to France.

    Prior to taking up this role, Ajay was a Director International Affairs in the National Security Secretariat of the Cabinet Office and a Director in the Foreign and Commonwealth and Development Office.

    During his 30-year career as a diplomat, Ajay has been involved in several international negotiations, including as the UK Representative for a Cyprus Settlement from 2021 to 2022 and as the Deputy Negotiator for the Iran Nuclear Deal (JCPOA).

    Born in London, Ajay is a graduate of Oxford University. He is fluent in French and Turkish, and is currently learning Bahasa Melayu.

    Ajay is set to arrive in Malaysia with his family in the next few weeks to commence his appointment. David Wallace remains the Acting High Commissioner until Ajay arrives.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Environment Agency opens world of construction to young people

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Environment Agency opens world of construction to young people

    Pupils from a local high school joined the Environment Agency and project partners last week on the Bewdley Flood Risk Management Scheme in Worcestershire.

    Constructing Change team photo

    The day was part of a new social initiative Constructing Change which is encouraging young people, especially girls, to consider careers in the construction industry.

    Founded last year by Elizabeth Griffin-Bennett and supported by the Environment Agency, Constructing Change is working to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion within the construction industry.

    A number of students from Bewdley High School are pictured on site where they received careers advice from Environment Agency officers, project designers ARUP and contractors Jackson Civil Engineering and NuWeld.

    As part of the day, the group was safely escorted around the site and also joined in construction activities, such as bricklaying and surveying.

    Constructing Change team at work

    The first Constructing Change initiative was organised earlier this year by the project team for the Littleborough Flood Risk Management Scheme in Rochdale. Further events are being planned across the country.

    David McKnight, Area Flood and Coastal Risk Manager for the Environment Agency, said:

    “Constructing Change seeks to improve the diversity of the construction industry by bringing young people safely into construction sites.

    “The Environment Agency fully supports this initiative and the opportunity to provide valuable insights into the construction methods we have employed in the Bewdley flood scheme.”

    Ravi Darigala, Regional Director for Jackson Civil Engineering, said:

    “Jackson are committed to investing in the next generation, challenging stereotypes and promoting an inclusive and diverse culture.

    “We are delighted to be among the first to host a Constructing Change event, and welcome the opportunity to showcase the exciting and varied opportunities within the construction industry.

    “The Bewdley Flood Risk Management Scheme aims to improve flood protection for the community, and we hope that it can also help to inspire industry professionals of the future.” 

    More Information on the Bewdley Flood Risk Management Scheme

    https://consult.environment-agency.gov.uk/west-midlands/bealesfrms/

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOFA response to statements by Swedish Defence Minister Jonson opposing China’s threats and supporting deepening relations with Taiwan

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    MOFA response to statements by Swedish Defence Minister Jonson opposing China’s threats and supporting deepening relations with Taiwan

    Date：2025-04-04
    Data Source：Department of European Affairs

    April 4, 2025

    Swedish Minister for Defence Pål Jonson stated in response to a question from Member of the Riksdag Björn Söder on April 2 that the security of Europe and Asia was closely linked, that Sweden and the European Union were paying close attention to peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region, that China’s actions towards Taiwan were worrying, and that military threats were unacceptable. Sweden reiterated that differences across the Taiwan Strait must be resolved peacefully and that the will of the Taiwanese people must be respected.

    Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung sincerely thanks the Swedish government for monitoring cross-strait peace and stability and expresses Taiwan’s hope of continuing to deepen relations with Sweden through long-term and comprehensive cooperation. As a responsible member of the international community, Taiwan will work with like-minded partners to urge China to stop threatening Taiwan and unilaterally escalating the situation in the region.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Ellomay Capital Ltd. Announces the Execution of an Agreement to sell 49% of its Italian Solar Portfolio of 198 MW to Clal Insurance, a Leading Israeli Institutional Investor

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Tel-Aviv, Israel, April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ellomay Capital Ltd. (NYSE American; TASE: ELLO) (“Ellomay” or the “Company”), a renewable energy and power generator and developer of renewable energy and power projects in Europe, USA and Israel, today announced that it entered into an investment agreement (the “Clal Agreement”) with Clal Insurance Ltd., a leading Israeli institutional investor, and several of its affiliates (together, “Clal”), for an aggregate investment by Clal of approximately €52 million.

    Pursuant to the Clal Agreement, Clal and Ellomay will set up a new Israeli limited partnership (the “Israeli LP”) in which an entity wholly-owned by Ellomay will be the general partner and Ellomay will hold 51% of the limited partner interests and Clal will hold the remaining 49%. The Israeli LP will wholly-own a newly founded Luxembourg entity, to which Ellomay’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Ellomay Luxembourg Holdings, S.à.r.l. (“Ellomay Luxembourg”), will transfer all of the issued and outstanding shares of seven Italian project companies, who hold a solar portfolio in an aggregate capacity of approximately 198 MW (the “Italian Solar Portfolio”). The Italian Solar Portfolio consists of (a) solar facilities with an aggregate capacity of 38 MW that are connected to the grid and operating and (b) additional solar facilities with an aggregate capacity of 160 MW that have reached Ready-to-Build status and with respect to which Engineering, Procurement and Construction agreements were executed. Project finance agreements were executed with respect to the Italian Solar Portfolio in March 2025.

    The Clal Agreement includes customary representations and warranties of Ellomay and Clal and an indemnification mechanism for breaches of representations, warranties and undertakings, subject to customary caps and limitations, as a sole remedy, subject to customary exceptions. The Clal Agreement provides Clal with a right of first look commencing with the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Clal Agreement with respect to investment in other solar projects currently developed or that will be developed by Ellomay and its subsidiaries in Italy for an investment under similar terms as the Clal Agreement, mutatis mutandis. Pursuant to the right of first look mechanism, Ellomay will provide Clal certain information with respect to each project that has reached Ready-to-Build status and Ellomay decided to advance its construction, and Clal will have a few months to notify Ellomay that it is interested in investing up to 49% in such projects or any portion thereof upon the terms set forth in the notice provided to Clal by Ellomay.

    The Clal Agreement provides that upon consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Clal Agreement, Ellomay and Clal will sign a partners agreement (the “Clal PA”) and Ellomay will issue Clal a warrant (the “Clal Warrant”).

    The Clal PA sets forth the relationship between the general partner and the limited partners, the governance and management of the Israeli LP, the funding and financing of the Israeli LP and the mechanism for future transfers of interests in the Israeli LP. Pursuant to the Clal PA, Clal undertakes to provide its pro rata portion of the amounts required for the development of the Italian Solar Portfolio to the Israeli LP, which in turn will fund the Luxembourg subsidiary and the Italian project companies. Ellomay’s aggregate funding commitment in the Italian Solar Portfolio has already been provided by Ellomay. The Clal PA also provides for the payment of annual management fees to Ellomay. The Clal PA provides each limited partner with customary rights, including a full tag-along right in the event of a change in control of Ellomay and includes customary veto rights. The Clal PA provides that following repayment of partners’ loans, the Israeli LP’s surpluses will be distributed to the limited partners, pro rata to their holdings, on a semi-annual basis, subject to maintaining the working capital required by the Israeli LP for the two following quarters.

    The Clal Warrant covers 416,000 ordinary shares of Ellomay, with an exercise price of NIS 69.7 (approximately $18.5) per share. The Clal Warrant is for a term of twenty-six months and may only be exercised on a cashless basis. In the event Ellomay’s shares are traded at a price higher than NIS 80 (approximately $21.2) per share when the Clal Warrant is exercised, Ellomay, at its discretion, may choose to issue shares on a cashless basis assuming a market price per share of NIS 80 and pay Clal the remainder in cash. 

    The consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Clal Agreement is subject to the fulfillment or waiver of several customary conditions to closing, including receipt of regulatory approvals, that are not entirely within the control of Ellomay, Ellomay Luxembourg, Clal or the Israeli LP. There can be no assurance as to whether or when the conditions to closing will be satisfied.

    Ran Fridrich, CEO and a board member of Ellomay, commented: “Ellomay is pleased to announce the establishment of a partnership with Clal Insurance, which will invest in a 198 MW solar portfolio in central and northern Italy. The Company sees great importance in the entry of a quality institutional investor as a partner to part of its Italian solar portfolio, and in Clal’s interest in examining participation in the future in building the remainder of the Company’s Italian portfolio and views this as a vote of confidence in the Company, its management and its operations. The Company thanks the investment team of Clal, led by Barak Bensky, for their professional work in a complex cross-border transaction.”

    About Ellomay Capital Ltd.

    Ellomay is an Israeli based company whose shares are registered with the NYSE American and with the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange under the trading symbol “ELLO”. Since 2009, Ellomay focuses its business in the renewable energy and power sectors in Europe, USA and Israel.

    To date, Ellomay has evaluated numerous opportunities and invested significant funds in the renewable, clean energy and natural resources industries in Israel, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands and Texas, USA, including:

      ● Approximately 335.9 MW of operating solar power plants in Spain (including a 300 MW solar plant in owned by Talasol, which is 51% owned by the Company) and approximately 38 MW of operating solar power plants in Italy;
      ● 9.375% indirect interest in Dorad Energy Ltd., which owns and operates one of Israel’s largest private power plants with production capacity of approximately 850MW, representing about 6%-8% of Israel’s total current electricity consumption;
      ● Groen Gas Goor B.V., Groen Gas Oude-Tonge B.V. and Groen Gas Gelderland B.V., project companies operating anaerobic digestion plants in the Netherlands, with a green gas production capacity of approximately 3 million, 3.8 million and 9.5 million Nm3 per year, respectively;
      ● 83.333% of Ellomay Pumped Storage (2014) Ltd., which is involved in a project to construct a 156 MW pumped storage hydro power plant in the Manara Cliff, Israel;
      ● Solar projects in Italy with an aggregate capacity of 294 MW that have reached “ready to build” status; and
      ● Solar projects in the Dallas Metropolitan area, Texas, USA with an aggregate capacity of approximately 27 MW that are placed in service and in process of connection to the grid and additional 22 MW are under construction.

    For more information about Ellomay, visit http://www.ellomay.com.

    Information Relating to Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve substantial risks and uncertainties, including statements that are based on the current expectations and assumptions of the Company’s management. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this press release regarding the Company’s plans and objectives, expectations and assumptions of management are forward-looking statements. The use of certain words, including the words “estimate,” “project,” “intend,” “expect,” “believe” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Company may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in the forward-looking statements and you should not place undue reliance on the Company’s forward-looking statements. Various important factors could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those that may be expressed or implied by the Company’s forward-looking statements, including the inability to fulfill all of the conditions to closing set forth in the Clal Agreement, changes in the market price of the Company’s shares, changes in electricity prices and demand, regulatory changes increases in interest rates and inflation, changes in the supply and prices of resources required for the operation of the Company’s facilities (such as waste and natural gas) and in the price of oil, the impact of the war and hostilities in Israel and Gaza, the impact of the continued military conflict between Russia and Ukraine, technical and other disruptions in the operations or construction of the power plants owned by the Company and general market, political and economic conditions in the countries in which the Company operates, including Israel, Spain, Italy and the United States. These and other risks and uncertainties associated with the Company’s business are described in greater detail in the filings the Company makes from time to time with Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 20-F. The forward-looking statements are made as of this date and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Contact:
    Kalia Rubenbach (Weintraub)
    CFO
    Tel: +972 (3) 797-1111
    Email: hilai@ellomay.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens call on PM to “take tax cuts for billionaires” off the negotiating table

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    by Green Party

    Responding to reports that the Prime Minister is considering tax cuts for Musk, Bezos and other tech billionaires as part of his negotiations with President Trump, Green Party Co-Leader, Adrian Ramsay MP said,

    “I’m calling on the Prime Minister to take this morally reprehensible suggestion off the negotiating table. The very idea that he would cut tax obligations for some of the biggest companies in the world, controlled by some of the very richest people in the world, in an effort to appease President Trump is an insult to each and every person struggling to get by at the moment. The Prime Minister has made much of “the hard choices” he has had to make: cutting winter fuel allowance to our elderly, removing benefits from disabled people, capping child benefits, and taking huge chunks out of the international aid budget. These decisions, which are awful in isolation, are morally deplorable in the context of offering tax cuts to the likes of X, Amazon and other big tech companies. 

    He continued, “The crisis in our public finances is partly caused by corporations free riding on public services but avoiding paying their taxes. This is how the US tech billionaires have accumulated such excessive fortunes. The Digital Services Tax is a first step towards fair taxation of digital companies that dominate the global economy.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Acting Traffic Commissioner for Scotland appointed

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Acting Traffic Commissioner for Scotland appointed

    The Secretary of State for Transport has appointed Richard Turfitt as Acting Traffic Commissioner for Scotland.

    This appointment is a temporary measure pending the recruitment of a full time Traffic Commissioner for Scotland. This recruitment campaign is currently underway.

    This appointment ensures that Scotland is supported by a dedicated Traffic Commissioner for devolved matters.

    Mr Turfitt has already been covering the jurisdiction in his current capacity as Deputy Traffic Commissioner for Scotland and Senior Traffic Commissioner since the resignation of the previous Traffic Commissioner for Scotland. He will continue to be supported in this role by deputy traffic commissioners.

    The role of the traffic commissioners

    Traffic commissioners are responsible for the licensing and regulation of bus, coach and goods vehicle operators, and registration of local bus services. Where appropriate, they can call operators to a public inquiry to examine concerns about vehicle and driver safety.

    They also deal with professional drivers at conduct hearings.

    Matters related to local bus services is devolved to the Scottish Government. The Traffic Commissioner for Scotland is also uniquely responsible for Taxi Farescale appeals.

    For any further details or enquiries, please Email: pressoffice@otc.gov.uk

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Foot and mouth disease: latest situation

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Foot and mouth disease: latest situation

    Current cases of foot and mouth disease, trade restrictions and risk level.

    Contents:

    If you suspect foot and mouth disease in your animals, you must report it immediately by calling 03000 200 301 in England, 0300 303 8268 in Wales or your local Field Services Office in Scotland.

    Foot and mouth disease (FMD) affects cloven-hoofed animals including:

    • cattle
    • sheep
    • pigs
    • goats
    • camelids
    • deer

    It does not affect humans.

    Livestock keepers must be vigilant to signs of disease and practise good biosecurity.

    Current cases in Europe 

    There are currently no cases in the UK, but there have recently been confirmed cases in:

    • Germany (January 2025)
    • Hungary (March 2025)
    • Slovakia (March 2025)

    The last outbreak in the UK was in 2007.

    Restrictions

    Bringing food into Great Britain for personal use

    You must not bring meat or dairy products from certain animals (including cows, sheep, pigs and goats) into Great Britain for personal use if those goods are from Germany, Hungary, Slovakia or Austria.

    You can bring these products from other EU countries, but certain restrictions apply. Check the rules for bringing food into Great Britain for personal use.

    Commercial trade

    There are restrictions on commercially importing certain products from:

    • any EU country with FMD (Germany, Hungary and Slovakia)
    • Austria, because of a case near the Hungarian-Austrian border 

    The restrictions apply to:

    • hay and straw
    • any live animal belonging to an FMD-susceptible species

    Restrictions also apply to the following products from FMD-susceptible animals:

    • germplasm
    • fresh meat
    • meat products, unless suitably heat treated
    • milk and dairy products, unless suitably treated
    • animal by-products, such as pet food

    Traders must check the rules for imports, exports and EU trade of animals and animal products.

    Risk levels and outbreak assessments

    The risk of FMD entering the UK is currently assessed as medium. 

    Find details of the evidence that supported the decisions on this risk level in APHA’s outbreak assessments:

    Foot and mouth disease is not a public health or food safety risk.​

    Press releases and statements

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Market returns to city centre following winter break

    Source: City of Canterbury

    Home  »  Latest News   »   Market returns to city centre following winter break

    Canterbury City Market returns to St George’s Street today (9 April) after taking a short break over the winter months to allow for the city’s Christmas market.

    The historic 700-year-old market will begin trading again every Wednesday between 9am and 5pm up until late autumn.

    Shoppers will be able to get their hands on a range of excellent local products including bread, pastries, homewares and collectibles as well as jewellery, vinyl records and clothing.

    The market made its official comeback in July last year after 18 months away and has established itself as a brilliant addition to Canterbury’s vibrant market offering.

    Director of Place, Bill Hicks, said: “I’m so pleased to see the market returning after a short break over the festive period and can’t wait to sample some goods from the latest line-up of street traders bringing their fantastic products to the stalls.

    “What better way to enjoy the warmer weather than by shopping from some of Kent’s best makers and traders at a sunny open-air market!”

    The 11 traders lined up for this week are:

    • Valentin’s Artisan Bakery
    • Viking records, offering new and second-hand vinyl records
    • A Little Bit of Pixie Dust, offering nostalgic Disney goods
    • Si The Poke Guy, offering collectible Pokémon cards
    • Joie de Vivre Creations, offering homewares
    • Marzena, offering ouds and perfumes
    • Nomad Jewellery
    • Nomad Wares, offering clothing
    • Mythos Crystals
    • Konger Krafts, offering clothing, crochet and accessories
    • Becky’s Crafty Creations, offering homewares

    If you are interested in having a stall, please contact Market Development Officer Sharlaie Dunstan by emailing markets@canterbury.gov.uk.

    Published: 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Buntanetap shows promise in early Parkinson’s with mild dementia, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Buntanetap shows promise in early Parkinson’s with mild dementia, says GlobalData

    Posted in Pharma

    At the recently held AD/PD 2025 International Conference on Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Diseases (PD), Annovis Bio reported buntanetap’s potential to improve both motor and cognitive functions in early-stage PD patients with mild dementia. This underscores the growing need for effective dementia treatments in PD, noting the drug’s promising sub-group outcomes as a critical step in addressing this significant unmet medical need, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    Reportedly, buntanetap failed to reach the primary endpoint in the total intention-to-treat (ITT) population. But, showed potential at improving motor and non-motor functions in patients with early PD and mild dementia.

    Following sub-group analysis of early PD patients with mild dementia, as measured by a Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) of 20-26, cognitive decline was prevented in patients who received 20mg of buntanetap for six months. In addition, buntanetap demonstrated improvements in MDS-UPDRS Parts I, II, III, and IV, Clinical Global Impression of Severity (CGIS), Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale fourth edition (WAIS-IV), and Participant Global Impression of Change (PGIC) clinical endpoints, meeting all primary and secondary endpoints in this sub-group. As such, improvements in both cognition and motor function signal a promising therapy for patients with early PD with mild dementia.

    Christie Wong, Managing Neurology Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The key opinion leaders (KOLs) previously interviewed by GlobalData overwhelmingly cited dementia as the most difficult-to-treat non-motor symptom of PD. The development of more effective therapies for dementia is a major unmet need in PD, as the current therapies provide only modest benefit. KOLs stated that dementia is a common problem in PD patients that further affects medication compliance and remains difficult to treat.”

    However, drug development for this indication has historically been challenging. For example, IRLAB Therapeutics recently announced that while the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) indicated an improvement in cognitive impairment for patients treated with 600mg of pirepemat, it did not reach statistical significance in a Phase IIb study (REACT-PD [NCT05258071]).

    Moving forward, Annovis Bio plans to explore biomarkers to differentiate patients with PD from patients without PD, as well as understanding the differences between PD patients with cognitive impairment and patients with Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, the company has requested a Type C meeting with the FDA, with the intention to conduct a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multi-center Phase II/III study in patients with dementia with Lewy bodies and PD dementia.

    Wong concludes: “In the late-stage pipeline, there are currently three assets that investigate cognitive function in PD patients; buntanetap is set to compete with Anavex’s blarcamesine and IRLAB Therapeutics’ pirepemat. Pipeline agents that address cognitive complications, including PD dementia, will likely see a high initial uptake following approval due to the limited availability of approved treatments for this indication and high unmet need.”

    *7MM = The US, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK, and Japan.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: TransUnion Study Finds More than Half (56%) of Canadians Said They Were Targeted by Fraud in Second Half of 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Almost One in Five (17%) Canadians Reported Losing Money Due to Fraud in Last Year with
    Median Loss of $2,013

    Gaming, Government and Communities were Most Targeted Sectors by Digital Fraudsters in Canada

    Key Study Findings:

    • 39% of Canadians surveyed said fraud concerns is the top reason why they abandon online shopping carts.
    • 46% prioritize security of personal data as the #1 quality (more than cost savings or quality of goods and services) when deciding what online company to do business with.
    • 13% report taking no action when discovering they became a victim of fraud.
    • 43% who said they were targeted by fraud involved phishing.
    • 11% of attempted digital gaming transactions (including online betting, poker, etc.) where consumer was in Canada were suspected of digital fraud in 2024.

    TORONTO, April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — According to the newly-released TransUnion (NYSE: TRU) H1 2025 Update to the State of Omnichannel Fraud Report, more than half (56%) of 1,000 Canadians surveyed said they were targeted by fraudsters through email, online, phone call or text messaging channels from August to December 2024. Nearly one in 10 (9%) of those reporting being targeted said they fell victim to it. Furthermore, when surveyed from Nov. 21 to Dec. 6, 2024, nearly one-fifth of Canadians (17%) said they lost money due to email, online, phone call or text messaging in the past year. The number of Canadians targeted and who fell victim may be significantly higher, but people may be unaware they were targeted.

    “Our research indicates that many Canadians don’t take the proper steps if they have fallen victim to Digital Fraud,” said Patrick Boudreau, head of identity management and fraud solutions at TransUnion Canada. “These steps should include reporting the suspected fraud to your bank or credit card company to freeze accounts and changing all passwords. Consumers should also notify credit bureaus, including TransUnion, to place a fraud alert on their file, as well as report the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. If personal information was compromised or large sums of money were involved, it should be reported to the local police as well.”

    Fraud concerns have major influence on who Canadians choose to do business with online.
    When engaging online, concerns around security and fraud has a significant impact on Canadians’ preferences and behaviours, including when making purchases or choosing who to do business with.

    According to the survey that was part of TransUnion’s State of Omnichannel Fraud Report:

    • 91% of Canadians said having confidence that their personal data will not be compromised is important when choosing who to transact with online.
    • 46% said security of personal data is the number one consideration when deciding what company to do business with online, significantly higher than prioritizing cost savings (25%) and quality of goods and services (19%).
    • 70% said fraud concerns would cause them not to return to a website.
    • 31% said they have switched doing online transaction to another website due to fraud or security concerns.
    • 39% said fraud and/or security concerns is a top reason to abandon their online shopping cart. Conversely, 16% said having too many security steps is a top reason to abandon their online cart.
    • 35% said they have abandoned an online application for a financial or insurance product before completing it.

    While many Canadians took various actions after discovering they had become a victim of fraud, more than 1 in 10 (13%) reported no action at all.
    Among Canadians who said they fell victim to email, online, phone call or text messaging fraud from August to December 2024, they reported taking the following actions:

    • 51% contacted relevant impacted companies such as credit card issuers, retailers, etc.
    • 48% placed a freeze on their credit.
    • 29% placed a fraud alert on their credit report.
    • 16% called the police.
    • 15% contacted a company that compiles and provides credit reports.
    • 13% said they took no action.

    While Canadians were targeted by a mix of fraud schemes, phishing was the most reported kind.
    Among those who said they were targeted by email, online, phone call or text messaging fraud in the second half of last year, the most common reported method by them was phishing (43%). Phishing is when a fraudster uses an email, website, social post or QR code that appears to legitimate meant to trick a consumer into sharing personal information. Other common fraud attempt methods reported by those who said they were targeted include:

    • Smishing (40%), where fraudulent text messages try to trick recipients into revealing data.
    • Vishing (35%), where fraudulent phone calls try to induce recipients into revealing personal information.
    • Third-party seller scams on legitimate online retail websites (19%).

    Gaming, Government and Communities Were the Top 3 Industries Targeted by Digital Fraudsters in Canada.
    Gaming (including online betting, poker, etc.) had the highest rate of suspected digital fraud1 attempts where the consumer or fraudster was in Canada when transacting. Over 11% of all attempted digital gaming-related transactions were suspected of fraud in 2024, an 80% increase from 2023. This was followed by government (9%), communities which includes online dating sites and forums (7%) and video gaming (6%).

    The logistics industry, which has seen growth in shipping fraud (often perpetrated by organized crime rings), saw the greatest suspected digital fraud attempt rate and volume growth among industries analyzed, up 203% and 180% respectively for transactions from Canada YoY compared to 2023. However, the suspected digital fraud attempt rate for that industry was a relatively modest 2% in 2024. Conversely, telecommunications saw the biggest YoY suspected digital fraud attempt rate and volume decrease from 2024 (-88% and -86%) from Canada in that time period.

    Canadian Sectors that Experienced Shifts in YoY Suspected Digital Fraud in Many Cases Differed from Global Changes:

    Industry Canada suspected digital fraud attempt rate 2024 Change from 2023 Global suspected digital fraud attempt rate 2024 Global change from 2023
    Gaming (online sports betting, poker, etc.) 11.1% +80% 7.8% +20%
    Government 8.5% +21% 1.7% +6%
    Communities (online dating, forums, etc.) 7.0% -19% 11.6% +9%
    Video gaming 6.4% +15% 10.8% -23%
    Financial services 4.7% +13% 4.9% +3%
    Retail 4.6% +9% 7.6% -45%
    Insurance 3.3% +54% 2.0% -29%
    Logistics 1.9% +203% 2.6% +101%
    Telecommunications 0.3% -88% 3.0% -79%
    Travel & leisure 0.2% -26% 0.9% -38%

    Source: TransUnion TruValidate™

    “While cybercriminals will attack at any time using any channel, they appear to focus on channels most popular in the regions they are targeting,” added Boudreau. “Emails are widely used in Canadians’ personal and business lives, while many use their mobile phones for everything from work calls to ordering groceries and organizing their families’ lives. Fraudsters view these channels as the most likely way that they’ll be able to trick people into sharing personal information, which is why all Canadians need to be vigilant about responding to messages of any kind on their digital platforms.”

    TransUnion came to its conclusions about digital fraud based on intelligence from TransUnion TruValidate.

    Specific country and regional data in the report includes Canada, Botswana, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Hong Kong, India, Kenya, Mexico, Namibia, the Philippines, Puerto Rico, Rwanda, South Africa, Spain, the United Kingdom, the United States and Zambia. Download the TransUnion H1 2025 Update to the State of Omnichannel Fraud Report for more information and insights about the global fraud trends.

    About TransUnion® (NYSE: TRU)
    TransUnion is a global information and insights company with over 13,000 associates operating in more than 30 countries, including Canada, where we’re the credit bureau of choice for the financial services ecosystem and most of Canada’s largest banks. We make trust possible by ensuring each person is reliably represented in the marketplace. We do this by providing an actionable view of consumers, stewarded with care.

    Through our acquisitions and technology investments we have developed innovative solutions that extend beyond our strong foundation in core credit into areas such as marketing, fraud, risk and advanced analytics. As a result, consumers and businesses can transact with confidence and achieve great things. We call this Information for Good® — and it leads to economic opportunity, great experiences and personal empowerment for millions of people around the world.

    For more information visit: www.transunion.ca

    For more information or to request an interview, contact:
    Contact: Katie Duffy
    E-mail: katie.duffy@ketchum.com
    Telephone: +1 647-772-0969

    1 The rate or percentage of suspected digital fraud attempts reflects those which TransUnion customers determined met one of the following conditions: 1) denial in real time due to fraudulent indicators, 2) denial in real time for corporate policy violations, 3) fraudulent upon customer investigation, or 4) a corporate policy violation upon customer investigation — compared to all transactions assessed. The country and regional analyses examined transactions in which the consumer or suspected fraudster was located in a select country or region when conducting a transaction. Global statistics represents every country worldwide and not just the select countries and regions.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Lease Agreement Between Global Net Lease and General Services Administration (GSA) Remains in Full Effect

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Global Net Lease, Inc. (NYSE: GNL) (“GNL” or the “Company”) announced today that it has received written notice from the Government Services Administration (“GSA”) revoking its previous notice to exercise termination rights related to GNL’s Class A office building in Franklin, Tennessee. As a result, the existing lease agreement with the GSA remains in full force and effect.

    Global Net Lease thanks the GSA for being a valued partner throughout this process. GNL looks forward to continuing the strong relationship for many years to come.

    About Global Net Lease, Inc.

    Global Net Lease, Inc. is a publicly traded real estate investment trust listed on the NYSE, which focuses on acquiring and managing a global portfolio of income producing net lease assets across the United States, United Kingdom, and Western and Northern Europe. Additional information about GNL can be found on its website at www.globalnetlease.com.

    Important Notice

    The statements in this press release that are not historical facts may be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause the outcome to be materially different. The words such as “may,” “will,” “seeks,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “expects,” “estimates,” “projects,” “potential,” “predicts,” “plans,” “intends,” “would,” “could,” “should” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside of the Company’s control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from the results contemplated by the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include the risks that any potential future acquisition or disposition (including the proposed closing of the encumbered properties portion of the multi-tenant portfolio) by the Company is subject to market conditions, capital availability and timing considerations and may not be identified or completed on favorable terms, or at all. Some of the risks and uncertainties, although not all risks and uncertainties, that could cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from those presented in the Company’s forward-looking statements are set forth in the “Risk Factors” and “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk” sections in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and all of its other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, as such risks, uncertainties and other important factors may be updated from time to time in the Company’s subsequent reports. Further, forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes to future operating results over time, unless required by law.

    Contacts:
    Investor Relations
    Email: investorrelations@globalnetlease.com
    Phone: (332) 265-2020

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Trastuzumab deruxtecan approved to treat adults with HER2-positive cancer that has spread or cannot be removed by surgery 

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Trastuzumab deruxtecan approved to treat adults with HER2-positive cancer that has spread or cannot be removed by surgery 

    As with all products, the MHRA will keep its safety under close review.

    The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has today (9 April 2025) approved trastuzumab deruxtecan (Enhertu) to treat people with solid tumours that have mutations in human epidermal growth factor 2 (known as HER2 positive cancers) that have spread to other parts of the body (metastatic disease) or cannot be removed by surgery (unresectable), and who have no alternative treatment options.  

    This approval is an extension to the indication (use) of the medicine, which has previously been approved for the treatment of adult patients with unresectable or metastatic HER2-positive breast cancers, who have received two or more prior anti-HER2-based regimens for non-small cell lung cancer with an activating HER2 mutation and HER2-postivie gastric cancer. 

    Trastuzumab deruxtecan has been approved through Project Orbis, a global partnership between the MHRA, the Therapeutics Goods Administration in Australia, Health Canada, the Health Sciences Authority in Singapore, Swissmedic, Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária in Brazil and Israel’s Ministry of Health, coordinated by the US Food and Drug Administration.  This programme reviews and approves promising cancer drugs, helping patients to access treatments more quickly.    

    As with any medicine, the MHRA will keep the safety and effectiveness of trastuzumab deruxtecan under close review. Anyone who suspects they are having a side effect from this medicine are encouraged to talk to their doctor, pharmacist or nurse and report it directly to the Yellow Card scheme, either through the website (https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/) or by searching the Google Play or Apple App stores for MHRA Yellow Card. 

    Notes to editors  

    1. The variation to the marketing authorisation was granted on 9 April 2025 to Daiichi Sankyo UK Ltd. 

    2. The aim of Project Orbis is to deliver faster patient access to innovative cancer treatments with potential benefits over existing therapies.  For more information, see: Project Orbis

    3. For more information about cancer, visit: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cancer/ 

    4. More information can be found in the Summary of Product Characteristics and Patient Information leaflets which will be published on the MHRA Products website within 7 days of approval.  

    5. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe.  All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgments to ensure that the benefits justify any risks.  

    6. The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care.  

    7. For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on 020 3080 7651.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Find out about our financial support for SME Housebuilders

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Find out about our financial support for SME Housebuilders

    Homes England is helping hundreds of small and medium sized housebuilders to kickstart projects by providing development loans from £250,000 to over £10 million.

    The Home Building Fund is designed for housebuilders based in England that are struggling to access finance from traditional lenders. Loans can be tailored to your individual circumstances and can be used to meet the development costs of building homes for sale or rent. Financing is also available to support community-led housing projects, serviced plots for custom and self-builders, off-site manufacturing, new entrants to the market and groups of small firms working in consortia to deliver larger sites.

    Our flexible approach, along with our in-depth knowledge of the housing sector, makes us uniquely placed to support businesses of all sizes to deliver new homes.

    The Home Building Fund can help if you:

    • are a UK-registered corporate entity or limited liability partnership
    • plan to build 5 or more homes on a site in England
    • have a controlling interest in the land, with outline planning permission in place

    More information about the fund can be found in our Home Building Fund guidance, and you can also arrange a call with one of our regional specialists by:

    Find out about some of the schemes we’ve supported by viewing our case studies

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Change of British High Commissioner to Mauritius: Paul Brummell

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Change of British High Commissioner to Mauritius: Paul Brummell

    Mr Paul Brummell CMG has been appointed British High Commissioner to the Republic of Mauritius.

    Mr Paul Brummell

    Mr Paul Brummell CMG has been appointed British High Commissioner to the Republic of Mauritius in succession to Ms Charlotte Pierre who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment.  Mr Brummell will take up his appointment during July 2025.

    Curriculum vitae

    Full name: Paul Brummell           

    Year Role
    2021 to present Riga, His Majesty’s Ambassador
    2018 to 2021 FCDO, Head of Soft Power and External Affairs Department
    2014 to 2018 Bucharest, Her Majesty’s Ambassador
    2013 to 2014 Pre-posting training (including Romanian language training)
    2009 to 2013 Bridgetown, British High Commissioner to the Eastern Caribbean
    2005 to 2009 Astana, Her Majesty’s Ambassador
    2002 to 2005 Ashgabat, Her Majesty’s Ambassador
    2001 FCO, Afghanistan Emergency Unit
    2000 to 2001 FCO, Deputy Head of Eastern Department
    1995 to 2000 Rome, First Secretary (Political, Press and Public Affairs)
    1993 to 1994 FCO, Environment, Science and Energy Department
    1992 New York, Conference Support Officer, UK Mission to the United Nations
    1989 to 1992 Islamabad, Third later Second Secretary (Political)
    1988 to 1989 FCO, South America Department
    1988 FCO, Research Department
    1987 Joined FCO

    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 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Moldova encouraged to implement findings of Polish-funded critical infrastructure resilience project

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    The final meeting of UNDRR’s Polish Aid-funded “Strengthening Critical Infrastructure Resilience in the Republic of Moldova” project called on the government and development partners to take action to protect critical infrastructure from growing disaster risks.

    The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development (MIRD) hosted a meeting to present the final findings of the project, gathering key stakeholders, including Secretaries of State from MIRD and other government ministries, the Polish Ambassador, the UN Resident Coordinator, UN agencies, development partners, and international financial institutions.

    Launched in July 2024 with financial support from the Government of Poland, the project applied a global methodology developed by UNDRR and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure to assess the resilience of Moldova’s critical infrastructure, focusing on energy, ICT, transport, and water sectors. Moldova became the first country in Europe and Central Asia to adopt this approach, which has been implemented in Asia-Pacific, Africa, and Latin America.

    Moldova is highly vulnerable to natural hazards such as floods, storms, and droughts, as well as broader impacts of climate change. These risks pose significant threats to critical infrastructure, which is vital for providing essential services and supporting key economic sectors.

    The final meeting in Chisinau brought stakeholders together to advance the risk-informed recommendations from the project’s national roadmap report, aimed at strengthening Moldova’s resilience across sectors and governance levels.

    The roadmap report examines vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure systems against disaster risks, highlighting systemic and cascading impacts, as well as interdependencies during disruptions. It identifies gaps and proposes improvements in policies, regulations, and their implementation, along with areas for enhanced coordination across sectors and governance levels. The report outlines cross-sectoral and sector-specific Resilience Action Plans, balancing short-term preparedness with long-term strategies, aligning with Moldova’s National Disaster Risk Reduction Strategy and the EU National Accession Programme.

    Mr. Corneliu Cirimpei, the State Secretary of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development said that “effective disaster risk management in Moldova is currently focused more on response, rather than on proactive disaster risk reduction measures, and therefore there is a significant opportunity in updating and harmonizing the regulatory framework to strengthen preparedness and ensure the continuity of essential services in the face of disruptions.”

    H.E. Tomasz Kobzdej, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Poland, underlined the “importance of efforts to strengthen critical infrastructure resilience in the face of complex disaster risks and threats in Moldova”, emphasizing “the linkages of the project recommendations with Moldova’s EU accession process.”

    Ms. Yesim Oruc, UN Resident Coordinator in the Republic of Moldova, welcomed “the findings of this comprehensive initiative as a steppingstone for developing both sectoral and cross-sectoral plans to strengthen infrastructure resilience in Moldova”, underlining “the resilience of critical infrastructure systems and the key services as a prerequisite for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals”

    Ms. Natalia Alonso Cano, Chief of the UNDRR Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia, called for a “whole-of-government and multi-stakeholder approach to advance the priority actions identified in the roadmap report, ensuring continuity and coherence across partners in strengthening infrastructure resilience”, adding that “UNDRR remains committed to supporting Moldova in building its critical infrastructure resilience across sectors, in alignment with national priorities and global best practices.”

    The project was supported by a Technical Working Group co-chaired by UNDRR and MIRD, comprising representatives from six ministries, the State Chancellery, the General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations, and the Agency for Geodesy, Cartography and Cadastre, along with UN agencies and civil society organizations. The initiative included consultations, webinars, and workshops, such as the Stress Test and Resilience Scorecard Workshop held in Chișinău in November 2024, with participation from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.

    About the project

    Launched in July 2024 with financial support from the Government of Poland, the “Strengthening critical infrastructure resilience in the Republic of Moldova” employs a global methodology developed by UNDRR and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure to assess the level of critical infrastructure resilience, identify gaps, foster collaboration among key stakeholders, and to formulate an implementation plan to enhance governance and investments in infrastructure resilience, in line with government priorities.

    About UNDRR

    UNDRR is the lead agency in the United Nations on disaster risk reduction. It provides leadership, expertise, and tools to enable countries to understand and act on disaster risks before they become disasters. UNDRR’s work is guided by the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, which aims to achieve a substantial reduction in disaster risk and losses by the year 2030.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Import of poultry meat and products from areas in Poland and Canada suspended

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (April 9) that in view of notifications from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) about outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in Åšrem District of Wielkopolskie Region in Poland, and in Lambton County of Ontario Province in Canada, the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products (including poultry eggs) from the above-mentioned areas with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.

    A CFS spokesman said that according to the Census and Statistics Department, Hong Kong imported about 6 600 tonnes of frozen poultry meat from Poland, and about 400 tonnes of frozen poultry meat from Canada last year. 

    “The CFS has contacted the Polish and Canadian authorities over the issues and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreaks. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESIDENT MEETS THE PRIME MINISTER OF PORTUGAL AND THE PRESIDENT OF ASSEMBLEIA DA REPUBLICA

    Source: Government of India

    PRESIDENT MEETS THE PRIME MINISTER OF PORTUGAL AND THE PRESIDENT OF ASSEMBLEIA DA REPUBLICA

    ADDRESSES THE MEMBERS OF THE INDIAN COMMUNITY IN PORTUGAL AT A COMMUNITY RECEPTION

    PRESIDENT LEAVES FOR SLOVAKIA

    Posted On: 09 APR 2025 1:31PM by PIB Delhi

    On the concluding day (April 8, 2025) of her visit to Portugal, the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu met the President of Assembleia Da Republica (Portuguese Parliament), H.E. José Pedro Aguiar-Branco at Lisbon. They were in accord that regular exchanges between the Parliaments of India and Portugal would boost the people-to-people ties between the two countries. The President also met and held talks with the Prime Minister of Portugal, H.E. Mr Luis Montenegro at Lisbon. During the meeting, both leaders discussed the way forward for further strengthening bilateral relations. They agreed that there are greater opportunities for cooperation in many areas, such as trade and commerce, defence, science and technology, and energy.

    Yesterday (April 8, 2025), President Droupadi Murmu, accompanied by President Marcelo Rebelo De Sousa, visited Champalimaud Foundation in Lisbon and witnessed various research and development initiatives, including in the fields of neuroscience, oncology, experimental clinical research, and automated medicine delivery. The President also had a lively interaction with Indian researchers and scholars working at the Foundation and at other institutions across Portugal. She commended the Indian scholars for their role in deepening India-Portugal collaboration in emerging technologies and scientific research.

    The Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown is a state-of-the-art medical, scientific and technological institution where interdisciplinary clinical care is being developed alongside applied research activities and advanced education programmes.

    Later, the President paid floral tributes at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi in Lisbon. She also visited the Radha-Krishna Temple and offered her prayers.

    In the final engagement in Lisbon, the President addressed the members of the Indian Community at a Reception hosted by the Ambassador of India to Portugal.  The accompanying Minister of State, Smt. Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya as well as Members of Parliament, Shri Dhaval Patel and Smt. Sandhya Ray were present on the occasion.

    Addressing the enthusiastic gathering of Indian community members who had travelled to Lisbon for the occasion from all parts of Portugal, the President said that representing many parts of India and different communities, they not only reflect the diversity of India but also represent the shared values that bind our countries – democracy, pluralism, the spirit of fraternity.

    The President said that their contributions to Portugal, and their efforts to promote Indian culture, make them true ambassadors of our country. She was happy to note that they are achieving success and accomplishments through their hard work and making India proud. She thanked the Government and people of Portugal for welcoming the Indian diaspora and ensuring their safety and well-being.

    The President said that the Government of India is committed to strengthening the bond with its diaspora and ensuring their welfare. The Government has taken several initiatives to support the diaspora in times of crisis. She told members of the Indian diaspora that the Indian Missions abroad are ready to assist every Indian because wherever they are, their motherland is always with them!

    Following the reception, the President departed for the Slovak Republic.

    Please click here to see the President’s Speech – 

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2120316) Visitor Counter : 88

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: First batch of non-locally trained dentists join DH to provide public service

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    First batch of non-locally trained dentists join DH to provide public service 
    Following the passage of the Dentists Registration (Amendment) Bill 2024 by the Legislative Council in July last year, new pathways were to be introduced to admit qualified non-locally trained dentists. The DH launched a global recruitment drive in the same month. Apart from posting the information on its website, the DH collaborated with the offices outside Hong Kong to organise a series of online briefings and disseminated information to dental institutions and dental associations around the world.
     
    The DH received over 90 applications from non-locally trained dentists and issued 12 letters of appointment after a rigorous selection process. The Dental Council of Hong Kong (DCHK) is actively processing the relevant registration matters. Three of them, after obtaining the DCHK’s approval for limited registration in February this year, took up their appointments with the DH on March 10 this year.
     
    “The DH welcomes non-locally trained dentists to join the team. The three new colleagues have practical experience of practising in the Mainland, the United Kingdom and Australia after obtaining their professional qualifications in dentistry from Mainland and overseas institutions respectively,” said the Consultant in-charge, Dental Services of the DH, Dr Kitty Hse.
     
    “A one-week induction training was provided to these non-locally trained dentists to help them better understand the scope of public dental services in Hong Kong and the duties of government dentists. The three new colleagues, who are proficient in Cantonese, have been assigned to work in government dental clinics with general public sessions to serve the public,” she added.
     
    Dr Hse stressed that the DH will continue to adopt a multipronged approach to the recruitment and retention of dentists, and will maintain close contact with the DCHK to complete the vetting and approval of registration applications from non-locally trained dentists as soon as possible in order to meet the demand for local dental services.
     
    The three newly recruited dentists expressed their honour in being able to utilise their professional knowledge and experience to serve the citizens of Hong Kong. They were particularly pleased to be able to contribute to the place where they grew up and have more time to spend with their families. They noted that the DH’s induction training was comprehensive and practical, covering topics such as infection control, operation of the medical record system and consultation procedures, adding that it has helped them quickly adapt to the work environment. The professional support and teamwork from their colleagues have enabled them to start their work smoothly. Looking ahead, they are eager to develop their careers in Hong Kong on a long-term basis and continue to serve the community with their professionalism.
     
    With the commencement of the amended provisions of the Dentists Registration Ordinance (Cap. 156), new pathways for qualified non-locally trained dentists to come to Hong Kong have been introduced with effect from January 1 this year, including limited registration which is open to all dentists and special registration targeting specialist dentists. Non-locally trained dentists who are selected for full-time employment in specified institutions, including the DH, the Hospital Authority, the University of Hong Kong and Prince Philip Dental Hospital, subject to the approval of the DCHK, can directly practise in specified institutions to better meet the demand for public or subsidised dental services in Hong Kong.
    Issued at HKT 15:45

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The Ciatti case and the need to strengthen cooperation between Europol and national police forces to tackle transnational violent crime – E-001323/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001323/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Francesco Torselli (ECR), Sergio Berlato (ECR), Carlo Ciccioli (ECR), Giovanni Crosetto (ECR), Alberico Gambino (ECR), Chiara Gemma (ECR), Paolo Inselvini (ECR), Denis Nesci (ECR), Michele Picaro (ECR), Mariateresa Vivaldini (ECR)

    Niccolò Ciatti, a young man from Florence, was brutally killed in Lloret-de-Mar, Spain, in 2017, when he was beaten up and kicked in the head outside a nightclub. His killer, Rassoul Bissoultanov, who was sentenced to 15 years in prison in Spain and 23 years in prison in Italy, is still on the run.

    This case has raised concerns about how effective the coordination between police and judicial authorities is in addressing violent crimes that involve citizens from different EU Member States. Despite the seriousness of the case and the broad media impact, the investigations revealed limitations and delays in transnational cooperation between the competent authorities of the different countries.

    Given that cooperation between Europol and national police forces is not always timely and effective, that transnational violent crime is increasing across the EU and that Europol has a central role in coordinating investigations:

    • 1.What steps will the Commission take to tackle complex transnational violent crimes, such as the Ciatti case, and improve cooperation between Europol and national police forces, including during the stages of investigation and monitoring of defendants?
    • 2.Will the Commission address the limited effectiveness of transnational precautionary measures, including by means of real-time ‘data exchange’ systems for surveillance of defendants, in order to prevent them from going on the run?

    Submitted: 31.3.2025

    Last updated: 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Language policy in Latvia – E-001312/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001312/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Siegbert Frank Droese (ESN)

    • 1.What does the Commission make of the Latvian Government’s decision to ban Russian in public service broadcasting from 2026?
    • 2.How does the Commission view this decision, particularly in the context of the 1992 European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages?
    • 3.How does the Commission define the group affected – ‘Russian minority’, ‘Russian-speaking minority’, ‘Russians in Latvia’ or another term?

    Submitted: 31.3.2025

    Last updated: 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Transnational repression in the EU: legal and institutional responses to Iran’s actions – E-001318/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001318/2025
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Hannah Neumann (Verts/ALE)

    Reports that agents of the Iranian regime have carried out targeted assassinations of Iranian dissidents in Europe raise questions about transnational repression once again. A recently published and subsequently deleted interview[1][2][3] with retired Brigadier-General Mohsen Rafikdust allegedly confirms that the Iranian regime is responsible for political assassinations in European countries, including Germany and France. These new revelations reinforce concerns that Iranian intelligence structures continue to operate actively in EU Member States. In view of the increasing threat of state-sponsored transnational repression, can the Commission answer the following questions:

    • 1.What is the Commission’s current knowledge of transnational repression by Iran in the EU?
    • 2.To what extent are European security authorities specifically monitoring Iranian activities aimed at political assassinations, intimidation or espionage against Iranians in exile, and what measures are in place at EU level to effectively protect Iranians in exile and other dissidents in Member States who are at risk from Iranian transnational repression?
    • 3.To what extent is transnational repression being taken into account in the current negotiations on EU-Iran policy?

    Submitted: 31.3.2025

    • [1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aWfDgAwI9xU&t=7442s (2:16:40).
    • [2] https://www.iranintl.com/en/202503093512.
    • [3] https://x.com/manelimirkhan/status/1899147743731298585?s=46.
    Last updated: 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Poland’s security in the context of European defence – E-001352/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001352/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Marlena Maląg (ECR)

    Point 23 of the European Council conclusions of 20 March 2025 stresses ‘the specific character of the security and defence policy of certain Member States, and takes into account the security and defence interests of all Member States, in accordance with the Treaties’.

    In addition, the European Parliament resolution of 12 March 2025 on the White Paper on the future of European defence, in paragraph 66, calls for ‘the creation of a council of defence ministers and for the move from unanimity to qualified majority voting for decisions in the European Council, the Council of Ministers and EU agencies’.

    There is a good deal of controversy around the issue of how the EU institutions will interpret these provisions. Given the attitude of Western European countries which, despite the calls from the countries of my region in the period before Russia’s full-scale aggression, continued to pursue their interests with the Russian Federation, I would like to ask the Commission:

    • 1.What guarantees does the Commission intend to give those countries which are particularly at risk, such as Poland and other frontline states, if Western European countries take a different stance on security questions?
    • 2.In the Commission’s view, in the event of a threat from the Russian Federation, will Member States such as Poland be free to make decisions on their security and on the actions of their national armed forces?
    • 3.What action does the Commission intend to take to minimise any potential threats to the interests of Poland and other countries bordering the aggressor?

    Submitted: 2.4.2025

    Last updated: 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Over £35 million in Cold Weather Payments support paid this winter

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Over £35 million in Cold Weather Payments support paid this winter

    Over 1.4 million Cold Weather Payments – worth around £35 million in total – were paid this past winter to people in England and Wales, according to statistics released today [09 April].

    • Over 1.4 million Cold Weather Payments were made this past winter
    • This represents around £35 million in support, in addition to other benefits
    • Over £9 million of this was issued to those in receipt of Pension Credit

    Cold Weather Payments are issued to vulnerable households when the average temperature in their local area is recorded as, or forecast to be, zero degrees Celsius or below over seven consecutive days. 

    Those eligible received £25 for each seven-day period of very cold weather between 1 November and 31 March.

    Of those who received a Cold Weather Payment, 385,000 were also in receipt of Pension Credit – equating to around £9 million.

    It comes as the Government’s drive to support low-income pensioners has led to around 50,000 extra Pension Credit awards since the summer – an increase of 64 per cent compared to the same period last year. 

    Minister for Pensions Torsten Bell said:

    We supported millions of households this winter through Pension Credit and Cold Weather Payments, alongside extending the Household Support Fund and the Warm Home Discount. 

    For pensioners, this will have come on top of the State Pension which is set to increase by up to £1,900 over this parliament for millions, thanks to our commitment to the Triple Lock.

    Pensioners who receive Pension Credit automatically qualify for Cold Weather Payments. This is alongside extra support available such as the Household Support Fund, which was extended from 1 April 2025 until 31 March 2026, providing support with the cost of essentials such as food, heating and bills.

    Working age people who receive qualifying benefits such as Universal Credit and Jobseeker’s Allowance can also receive a Cold Weather Payment if they meet further criteria relating to employment, health conditions and caring responsibilities for young children or a disabled child.

    Additional Information

    • A breakdown of Cold Weather Payments issued can be found on gov.uk: Cold Weather Payment estimates: 2024 to 2025 – GOV.UK
    • There have been an estimated 1,402,000 Cold Weather Payments in the year 2024/25.
    • There have been an estimated 220,000 more Cold Weather Payments 2024/25 compared to the 2023/24 season, including an additional 21,000 to those receiving Pension Credit.
    • Eligibility criteria for Cold Weather Payments can be found on gov.uk: Cold Weather Payment: Eligibility – GOV.UK

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Home Building Fund — Esquire Developments Ltd

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Case study

    Home Building Fund — Esquire Developments Ltd

    How Homes England supported an ambitious developer based in Kent.

    Home Building Fund Developer Case Study: Esquire Developments Ltd

    Esquire Developments Ltd, an award-winning SME housebuilder, was established in 2011 and currently delivers approximately 120 homes annually across Kent and the South East.

    Esquire Developments approached Homes England to support their project Millers Field, a 1.21-acre site in Maidstone, Kent and we provided a £2.68 million loan to transform the site into 9 attractive family homes.

    Esquire Developments is known for its dedication to quality and sustainability, achieving up to 50% carbon reduction in their developments compared to current building standards. They also prioritise sourcing materials and supply chains locally, and all the homes in this project were equipped with air source heat pumps and electric vehicle charging stations.

    Following the successful completion of Millers Field, Homes England has supported Esquire Developments with a second scheme, Hill Farm in Sittingbourne, which is made up of 30 homes, 3 key worker homes and an overflow carpark for Demelza Children’s Hospice situated next to the development.

    More information about the Home Building Fund can be found on our Home Building Fund — development finance page, or you can get in touch with one of our regional specialists. You can:

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Home Building Fund — Kingswood Homes, Lancashire

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Case study

    Home Building Fund — Kingswood Homes, Lancashire

    Watch our film to see how Homes England has supported a regional house builder to significantly grow their housing output.

    Kingswood Homes

    Kingswood Homes, a mid-sized developer operating in the north-west and south-west of England, approached Homes England for support in 2020 after struggling to build a pipeline of sites due to funding constraints.    

    The phased nature of house building projects often means that sites become self-funding after around two thirds of the project have completed, as the builder can use the resulting sales income to repay the debt and meet ongoing construction costs. However, this means it is difficult for smaller builders to invest funds in their next project until the last house on a site has been sold.   

    Homes England provided development finance funding on four Kingswood residential schemes before developing an innovative new multi-site loan facility in 2020, which allows cash that would normally be used to repay debt, to instead be used to fund future costs, including site acquisitions.     

    With Homes England support Kingswood has grown from building 36 homes per year in 2016 to over 100 homes per annum and it is anticipated that with continued support, it will remain on track to meet the annual 200 homes target within the next three to four years.

    Paul Jones, Managing Director of Kingswood said: 

    Kingswood has proven that with appropriate financial support, small house builders can grow into medium sized businesses and play a role in helping to address the sustainable quality housing requirements set by government.  Homes England has been brilliant in understanding the financial support that we needed in order to deliver that growth and enable Kingswood to potentially access corporate finance in future years.  

    More information about the Home Building Fund can be found on our Home Building Fund — development finance page, or you can get in touch with one of our regional specialists. You can:

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Home Building Fund — The PG Group

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Case study

    Home Building Fund — The PG Group

    A development loan from Homes England helped The PG Group transform a derelict site in Bristol into a vibrant new neighbourhood

    The Carriageworks is a landmark brownfield site in Bristol which has been derelict for the past 30 years. A listed building, it was originally a Victorian commercial building used for the manufacture of horse drawn carriages. Having acquired the site in 2017, the PG Group proposed a place making scheme of apartments and retail units at the site in central Stokes Croft.

    However, the group encountered numerous challenges in bringing the site forward, with rising construction costs, complex planning negotiations, contractor availability, high levels of remediation and a lack of funding options available in the market.

    This is where Homes England stepped in, approving an initial loan to fund the development of 124 new homes and retail commercial units on the ground floor.

    Assisted by close communication with the local community throughout the process, the scheme has proved an unqualified success, with all homes sold and the market square providing Stokes Croft with a new focal point.

    Stuart Gaiger, Managing Director at PG Group, said:

    The Carriageworks has been one of the most technically challenging sites that the PG Group has undertaken. Combining difficult ground conditions, an ambitious scheme delivering residential accommodation and a strong placemaking theme, all delivered on a brownfield site in Bristol’s busy city centre.

    Given the challenges we faced, we were delighted be able to work with the team at Homes England who rapidly became valued partners. Their unique approach allowed us to deliver much needed residential, affordable housing and the community vision for placemaking aspects of the scheme.

    In addition, through support from Homes England we were able to more than treble the number of affordable homes on the site.

    More information about the Home Building Fund can be found on our Home Building Fund — development finance page, or you can get in touch with one of our regional specialists. You can:

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Home Building Fund — V&A Homes

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Case study

    Home Building Fund — V&A Homes

    Watch our film to find out how our funding helped a regional housebuilder to deliver an outstanding waterfront scheme.

    V&A Homes Yorkshire Ltd

    V&A homes is a family-run SME developer based in Harrogate, North Yorkshire. Waterside, a stunning nine-home scheme overlooking the River Nidd, was their second Homes England-supported development. 

    The brownfield site, a former abattoir, is located on a steep waterside location which required complex groundworks to complete the build. Homes England worked closely with the team at all stages to provide both financial and specialist support. 

    Today all three townhouses and six semi-detached homes are occupied, with residents benefitting from spectacular views and outstanding design.    

    Following the success of Waterside, V&A homes is now completing a scheme of homes opposite Thirsk Racecourse and are working on their next scheme which will deliver 60 new homes in Sharow near Ripon. 

    Victoria Denman, Managing Director of V&A Homes said:

    We first worked with Homes England after agreeing a land deal to bring our first development to market. From the outset I found the experience of working with the team extremely supportive. I was guided with care and consideration through the process and given reassurance at all stages. We are now working on a scheme which will deliver 60 homes – our biggest project to date. We wouldn’t have grown as we have without the great partnership we have developed with the agency.

    More information about the Home Building Fund can be found on our Home Building Fund — development finance page, or you can get in touch with one of our regional specialists. You can:

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Home Building Fund — Sky-House Co

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Case study

    Home Building Fund — Sky-House Co

    A development loan from Homes England helped newly-established housebuilder Sky-House Co to grow its business

    Sky-House development

    In 2017, Sky-House was a newly established, Yorkshire-based developer with a vision to create high-quality, urban ‘back-to-back’ housing for the 21st century, complete with balconies, rooftop garden spaces and shared pocket parks. Specifically, it had plans for a new, 44-home community, Waverley, located on a brownfield site, a former colliery, near Sheffield.

    As a new developer the company struggled to secure the finance from the private sector that it needed to bring forward this concept. But Homes England was attracted to the strong place-making ethos of the scheme, its aim to reduce carbon output, and the targeted ownership group of first-time buyers and lower income families and provided £3.2m in development finance.

    The completed scheme was an undeniable success. Sales demand exceeded expectations, and it was well received by the design and development community, with several award nominations.

    Importantly, Homes England was able to help Sky-House to utilise the equity and profit released from Waverley to fund the land acquisition of Oughtibridge Mill. Alongside this, it provided £3.7m of additional development funding.

    The scheme, comprising 40 eco-friendly homes with riverside balconies, private roof gardens and woodland views, is adjacent to a new development by David Wilson homes. The development has already secured two award wins.

    David Cross, Managing Director of Sky House, said:

    It is no understatement to say that without Homes England’s support we wouldn’t have been able to start even our first development.

    From Waverley Phase 1 to Oughtibridge Mill, we will complete 84 homes alongside commercial space, and we now have close to 400 homes and commercial space on the drawing board and a secure pipeline of funding and sites for the next 3 to 5 years.

    By accessing Homes England’s support, we have shifted from developer to housebuilder and now, more importantly, to place maker with close to 40 full and part time staff across the business alongside a growing cabinet of awards. All the team at Homes England have been amazing and we cannot thank them enough- all we can do is keep delivering great homes.

    More information about the Home Building Fund can be found on our Home Building Fund — development finance page, or you can get in touch with one of our regional specialists. You can:

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –