NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – TikTok campaign in Romania – E-000026/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Free and fair elections are at the core of democracy. The conduct and the organisation of elections is a competence of the Member States, in accordance with their national constitutional rules and legislation, as well as their international obligations and EU law. National authorities and courts are primarily responsible for ensuring compliance with the applicable rules.

    The Commission supports Member States on electoral matters, mainly through the European cooperation network on elections[1]. This brings together authorities with competence in elections to exchange information and best practices. In 2023, the Commission also issued a recommendation on inclusive and resilient elections[2].

    The Digital Services Act (DSA)[3] sets rules for online intermediaries and platforms. In 2024, the Commission issued Guidelines for providers of Very Large Online Platforms and Search Engines to mitigate systemic risks linked to electoral processes[4].

    In the context of the Romanian presidential elections, on 5 December 2024, the Commission issued a retention order to TikTok[5] and, on 17 December 2024, opened formal proceedings[6] against the provider of TikTok for suspected DSA breach.

    The proceedings focus on management of risks to elections or civic discourse linked to TikTok’s recommender systems and policies on political advertisements and paid-for political content.

    The regulation on political advertising[7], entering into full application in October 2025 , will strengthen the transparency and accountability in the use of political advertising.

    The Commission’s forthcoming Democracy Shield will aim to strengthen free and fair elections and the integrity of electoral processes in the EU.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights/democracy-eu-citizenship-anti-corruption/democracy-and-electoral-rights/european-cooperation-network-elections_en
    • [2] Commission Recommendation (EU) 2023/2829 on inclusive and resilient electoral processes in the Union and enhancing the European nature and efficient conduct of the elections to the European Parliament, OJ L, 2023/2829, 20.12.2023.
    • [3] Regulation (EU) 2022/2065 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 October 2022 on a Single Market For Digital Services and amending Directive 2000/31/EC (Digital Services Act), OJ L 277, 27.10.2022, p. 1-102.
    • [4] Communication from the Commission — Commission Guidelines for providers of Very Large Online Platforms and Very Large Online Search Engines on the mitigation of systemic risks for electoral processes pursuant to Article 35(3) of Regulation (EU) 2022/2065, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/C/2024/3014/oj/eng
    • [5] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_24_6243
    • [6] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_24_6487
    • [7] Regulation (EU) 2024/900 on the transparency and targeting of political advertising, OJ L, 2024/900, 20.3.2024.
    Last updated: 5 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Cybersecurity scandal in the Spanish Tax Agency – E-000250/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Network and Information Security (NIS) 2 Directive[1] sets out measures for a high common level of cybersecurity across the Union, including by defining cybersecurity risk-management measures to be taken by essential and important entities in Europe’s critical sectors, such as public administration.

    As the deadline for transposition of the directive has passed on 17 October 2024, the Commission has opened infringement procedures[2] against 23 Member States, including Spain, that have failed to notify transposition measures. The Commission called on all Member States to swiftly and fully transpose the directive into their national legislation.

    The protection of personal data in the EU is ensured by the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)[3] which applies also to national authorities.

    When acting in their capacity as controllers or processors in the sense of the GDPR, national authorities must put in place technical and organisational measures to ensure a level of security appropriate to the risk posed to the personal data being processed.

    Consequently, the ability to prevent, detect and address a data breach (including more complex breaches like cyberattacks) in a timely manner should be seen as essential elements of these measures.

    If a data breach occurs, the GDPR[4] provides for measures to address the impact of the data breach, including an obligation on national authorities acting as controllers to notify the breach to the competent national data protection supervisory authorities and to the data subjects in case the breach is likely to result in a high risk to their rights[5].

    Spain and the Spanish data protection authority[6] have the primary responsibility to monitor and enforce the application of the GDPR by Spanish national authorities.

    • [1] Directive (EU) 2022/2555 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 December 2022 on measures for a high common level of cybersecurity across the Union, amending Regulation (EU) No 910/2014 and Directive (EU) 2018/1972, and repealing Directive (EU) 2016/1148 (NIS 2 Directive).
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/inf_24_5988
    • [3] Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data, and repealing Directive 95/46/EC (General Data Protection Regulation), OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 1-88.
    • [4] Articles 33 and 34.
    • [5] The European Data Protection Board (EDPB) has published Guidelines 9/2022 on the data breach notifications, https://www.edpb.europa.eu/system/files/2023-04/edpb_guidelines_202209_personal_data_breach_notification_v2.0_en.pdf
    • [6]  Agencia Española de Protección de Datos (AEPD).
    Last updated: 5 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Ensuring the consistent enforcement of EU law regarding parity of treatment for foreign-language lecturers in Italian universities – P-000286/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In September 2021, the Commission started an infringement procedure[1] for Italy to comply with judgments of cases C-212/99[2] and C-119/04[3] of the Court of Justice of the EU, to ensure that it reconstructs careers of former lettori in line with Italian Law No 63 of 5 March 2004.

    The Court stated in these judgments that Law 63/2004 provides for an adequate framework for the reconstruction of lettori’s careers by applying the parameter of the part-time tenured researcher and that the application of this parameter does not appear to preclude the career of a former assistant from being reconstructed on more advantageous terms.

    Such reconstruction, in the Commission’s view, does not necessarily cover the reconstruction of careers in an uninterrupted manner. Neither of the judgments precludes the splitting of a career: they require the retention of the acquired rights from the date of the original recruitment, but they do not require that this is continued after the extinction of the category of lettori by Law No 236 of 21 June 1995.

    Italy has the primary responsibility to monitor the application of EU law as interpreted by the Court in its judgments and to take the necessary steps to ensure uniform application across all Italian universities.

    In its role as guardian of the Treaties, the Commission continues monitoring the situation and may decide to take appropriate action. In July 2023, the Commission decided to refer Italy to the Court of Justice of the EU for maintaining discrimination of foreign lecturers. Case C-519/23 is currently pending at the Court of Justice of the EU.

    Redress in individual cases is to be sought before the competent national courts.

    • [1] INFR(2021)4055, https://ec.europa.eu/atwork/applying-eu-law/infringements-proceedings/infringement_decisions/?lang_code=en&langCode=EN
    • [2] Judgment of 26 June 2001, Commission of the European Communities v Italian Republic., C-212/99, EU:C:2001:357.
    • [3] Judgment of 18 July 2006, Commission of the European Communities v Italian Republic, C-119/04, EU:C:2006:489.
    Last updated: 5 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Spain: EIB and CBNK launch pioneering initiative to support women entrepreneurs in the pharmacy sector

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • The EIB is set to invest €150 million in the European Union’s first intermediated financing programme aimed exclusively at women. It will provide a loan to CBNK, the bank for key engineering and health professionals formed by the merger of Banco Caminos and Bancofar.
    • The operation is focused on supporting women who want to set up or grow businesses in the pharmacy sector, potentially involving 600 pharmacies across the country.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) and CBNK, a Spanish bank serving key professionals and formed through the merger of Banco Caminos and Bancofar, have announced a landmark initiative to empower women entrepreneurs in the pharmacy sector in Spain. The operation, signed today during the EIB Group Forum in Luxembourg, is the EIB’s first intermediated loan within the European Union exclusively supporting women entrepreneurs.

    It will involve access to loans averaging €450 000 that can be used by women entrepreneurs to finance the formation of their business (purchase of licences), working capital (inventory) or equipment such as counters, shelves or computers.

    This €150 million EIB investment – implemented through the purchase of a covered bond issued by CBNK and rated Aa1 by Moody’s – aims to improve access to finance for women-owned or led small and medium enterprises (SMEs), including self-employed professionals.

    Despite making up a majority of the workforce in the pharmacy sector, women continue to face barriers such as limited access to finance, wage gaps and underrepresentation in leadership positions. This operation seeks to address these challenges by providing tailored financial support to women entrepreneurs and business leaders, enabling them to scale their businesses and contribute to Spain’s economic growth.

    “This operation represents a significant milestone in our commitment to the strong European values of gender equality and inclusive economic growth. By supporting women entrepreneurs in the pharmacy sector, we are unlocking opportunities and strengthening the Spanish healthcare system.” “Investing in female leadership is not just the right thing to do – it is the smartest thing to do. The evidence is clear: Gender equality leads to better decisions and better economic outcomes, and drives progress, stability and prosperity,” said EIB President Nadia Calviño.

    CBNK CEO Enrique Serra González said: “This operation expands CBNK’s commitment to the healthcare sector and women’s entrepreneurship, and is intended to be the starting point of an ongoing intermediation partnership with the EIB.”

    The signature of this operation will also open the conference launching the Gender Finance Lab commercial bank advisory programme. Launched by the EIB and funded by the European Commission under the InvestEU Advisory Hub mandate, the programme is a pioneering initiative to create a community of commercial banks committed to boosting women’s entrepreneurship and contributing to inclusive economic growth in the European Union.

    Background information

    EIB

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. It finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives. EIB projects bolster competitiveness, drive innovation, promote sustainable development, enhance social and territorial cohesion, and support a just and swift transition to climate neutrality.

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security. All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation and adaptation, and a healthier environment.

    In Spain, the EIB Group signed new financing worth €12.3 billion for over 100 high impact projects in 2024, contributing to the country’s green and digital transition, economic growth, competitiveness and better services for its people.

    To enhance the positive impact of its activities on gender equality and empower women and girls, the EIB Group adopted a Strategy on Gender Equality and Women’s Economic Empowerment and a Gender Action Plan, with the aim of embedding gender equality and in particular women’s economic empowerment in the EIB’s business model. It covers its lending, blending and advisory work within and outside the European Union. The EIB Group is also committed to driving gender equality in the workplace.

    CBNK

    CBNK is one of Spain’s largest specialised banking financial groups. In 2014, Banco Caminos acquired Bancofar. Both entities had longstanding experience in serving professional collectives. Founded in 1977, Banco Caminos has always had connections with road, canal and port engineers, as well as other professional activities and associated sectors, while Bancofar was created in 1964, supporting pharmacy professionals since then. Caminos Group was formed in 2018.

    Bancofar was absorbed by Banco Caminos in 2023, with these two group entities changing their name to CBNK. This new brand was created to extend its value proposition to other collectives, with a focus on high social impact professionals specialising in its areas of expertise (engineering and healthcare).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Tower Semiconductor to Showcase its Next-Generation BCD Technology at APEC 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Presenting Advanced Power Management Solutions for Automotive, AI, Mobile, and Data Center Applications 

    MIGDAL HAEMEK, Israel, March 5, 2025 – Tower Semiconductor (NASDAQ/TASE: TSEM), a leading foundry of high-value analog semiconductor solutions, today announced its participation in the upcoming 2025 Applied Power Electronics Conference (APEC), taking place March 17–19 in Atlanta, Georgia. The Company will highlight its cutting-edge power management technology platform with its high-efficiency power conversion capabilities including the latest 300mm 65nm 3.3V-based BCD solution, designed to meet the growing demands of Automotive, AI, Mobile PMIC, and Data Center power delivery.

    Tower’s industry-leading 0.18μm (200mm) and 65nm (300mm) Bipolar-CMOS-DMOS (BCD) platforms drive innovation across a broad range of applications, including driver ICs, battery management, portable power solutions, PC power control, and high-voltage gate drivers. With its recently announced 3.3V gate oxide technology offering 3.3V and 5V-based solutions as well as a comprehensive suite of design enablement tools, Tower continues to set new benchmarks in power efficiency, enabling next-generation solutions for a variety of high-demand sectors.

    Presentation schedule:
    Tower Semiconductor’s BCD Technology Foundry Offerings: From Automotive to Datacenter Power
    By Dr. Mete Erturk, Sr. Director, Power Management Marketing
    Date: March 19, 2025
    Time: 12:45 PM – 1:15 PM
    Location: A312

    To meet with Tower’s engineering team at APEC 2025, visit booth #1148.

    For more information on Tower’s Power Management solutions, visit here.

    About Tower Semiconductor         

    Tower Semiconductor Ltd. (NASDAQ/TASE: TSEM), the leading foundry of high-value analog semiconductor solutions, provides technology, development, and process platforms for its customers in growing markets such as consumer, industrial, automotive, mobile, infrastructure, medical and aerospace and defense. Tower Semiconductor focuses on creating a positive and sustainable impact on the world through long-term partnerships and its advanced and innovative analog technology offering, comprised of a broad range of customizable process platforms such as SiGe, BiCMOS, mixed-signal/CMOS, RF CMOS, CMOS image sensor, non-imaging sensors, displays, integrated power management (BCD and 700V), photonics, and MEMS. Tower Semiconductor also provides world-class design enablement for a quick and accurate design cycle as well as process transfer services including development, transfer, and optimization, to IDMs and fabless companies. To provide multi-fab sourcing and extended capacity for its customers, Tower Semiconductor owns one operating facility in Israel (200mm), two in the U.S. (200mm), two in Japan (200mm and 300mm) which it owns through its 51% holdings in TPSCo, shares a 300mm facility in Agrate, Italy with STMicroelectronics as well as has access to a 300mm capacity corridor in Intel’s New Mexico factory. For more information, please visit: www.towersemi.com.

    Safe Harbor Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release includes forward-looking statements, which are subject to risks and uncertainties. Actual results may vary from those projected or implied by such forward-looking statements. A complete discussion of risks and uncertainties that may affect the accuracy of forward-looking statements included in this press release or which may otherwise affect Tower’s business is included under the heading “Risk Factors” in Tower’s most recent filings on Forms 20-F, F-3, F-4 and 6-K, as were filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and the Israel Securities Authority. Tower does not intend to update, and expressly disclaim any obligation to update, the information contained in this release. 

    ###

    Tower Semiconductor Company Contact: Orit Shahar | +972-74-7377440 | oritsha@towersemi.com

    Investor Relations Contact: Liat Avraham | +972-4-6506154 | liatavra@towersemi.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Synaptics Seeks to Alter the Trajectory of the IoT at Embedded World With Contextual Edge AI and Wireless Innovations

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NUREMBERG, Germany, March 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Synaptics® Incorporated (Nasdaq: SYNA) will showcase its latest innovations in Edge AI and wireless connectivity at Embedded World 2025 in Nuremberg, Germany, unveiling a new family of microcontroller units (MCUs) and a new family of wireless systems-on-chips (SoCs) designed for a wide range of ultra-low-power Internet of Things (IoT) devices that exhibit contextually-aware artificial intelligence (AI) and ultra-reliable connectivity.

    For IoT system designers, they will be able to combine ultra-low-power (ULP), multimodal processing, contextually aware AI, and excellent wireless rate-over-range with reliable interoperability, all with surprisingly low system cost, opening the door to an array of cognitive IoT applications and intuitive user experiences.

    The devices that Synaptics’ new products will support include smartwatches and other wearables, consumer audio, appliances, security cameras, asset trackers, and factory automation systems, with the opportunity to add powerful functions such as predictive maintenance, and enhanced security.

    At EW2025? Join us in Booth #4A-259 to learn about our advances in Edge AI, wireless connectivity, and automotive display technologies. Email press@synaptics.com for an appointment.

    Engineers from Synaptics will be on hand throughout Embedded World to describe new products, capabilities, and features. In-booth demonstrations will include:

    • An illustration of the concept and the value of contextually aware AI, with partners Leedarson, a provider of IoT devices for the home, and the Fraunhofer Institute
    • A demonstration of AI hubs with partner Arcadyan, a provider of 5G, DOCSIS, and Wi-Fi 6 home routers
    • A demonstration of AI-enabled industrial vision systems with partner Arcturus, a specialist in machine vision
    • An introduction to the concept of AI-enabled Wi-Fi sensing, which makes Wi-Fi more than a mere data pipeline

    Synaptics engineers will also demonstrate an automotive dashboard display with local dimming for high contrast and Knob-on-Display capability. This demo is based on the company’s new SB7900 SmartBridge™ advanced automotive display processor integrated with its touch and display controllers, touch sense, and display driver technologies.

    Join Synaptics at Embedded World 2025 at booth 4A-259 from March 11-13 for an exclusive look at the technologies driving the future of the IoT. Engage with expert engineers and discover how edge AI is transforming ultra-low-power devices.

    About Synaptics Incorporated
    Synaptics (Nasdaq: SYNA) is driving innovation in AI at the Edge, bringing AI closer to end users and transforming how we engage with intelligent connected devices, whether at home, at work, or on the move. As a go-to partner for forward-thinking product innovators, Synaptics powers the future with its cutting-edge Synaptics Astra™ AI-Native embedded compute, Veros™ wireless connectivity, and multimodal sensing solutions. We’re making the digital experience smarter, faster, more intuitive, secure, and seamless. From touch, display, and biometrics to AI-driven wireless connectivity, video, vision, audio, speech, and security processing, Synaptics is the force behind the next generation of technology enhancing how we live, work, and play. Follow Synaptics on LinkedIn, X, and Facebook, or visit www.synaptics.com. 

    Synaptics and the Synaptics logo are trademarks of Synaptics in the United States and/or other countries. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.

    For further information, please contact:

    Media Contact
    Patrick Mannion
    Synaptics
    +1-631-678-1015
    patrick.mannion@synaptics.com

    Danielle Burness
    Senior Account Manager
    Publitek Ltd.
    danielle.burness@publitek.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Denmark: President of the Security Council for March 2025 – Press Conference | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Press conference by Ms. Ambassador Christina Markus Lassen, Permanent Representative of Denmark and President of the Security Council for the month of March 2025.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1XUyUxbnWbc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Schools recognised for approach to emotional health and wellbeing

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Certificates were awarded to Broadmeadow Special School, Bushbury Hill Primary School, Dovecotes Primary School, Loxdale Primary School, Rakegate Primary School, St Edmund’s Catholic Academy and St Regis CE Academy at a ceremony at the Wolverhampton Education Wellbeing Network in February. 

    The City of Wolverhampton Council’s Educational Psychology Service was commissioned by the Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust as part of the Government-funded Mental Health Support Teams initiative, known as Reflexions locally, to increase access to specialist support in schools.

    It aims to support Senior Mental Health Leads in schools to further develop their whole school approach to emotional health and wellbeing, with the Sandwell Wellbeing Charter Mark selected as an evidence-based approach which supports schools to embed good practice.

    Dr Rebecca Glazzard, Specialist Senior Educational Psychologist with the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Educational Psychology Service, coordinated a 12-month process of auditing, planning and reviewing practice in these areas with the seven schools.

    Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “We were delighted to award the Sandwell Charter Mark to seven schools in the city for their commitment to promoting the wellbeing of pupils, staff and parents and carers.

    “We look forward to awarding more in the summer term to schools which are in the process of completing the Charter Mark this term.”

    Mrs Proffitt, Designated Safeguarding Lead at Broadmeadow Special School, said: “We have really enjoyed the process and demonstrating our practice through pupil and parent focus groups, observations, school walk throughs and hard data. It really highlights that our school community has so much to be proud of.”

    Mrs Adeogun, Senior Mental Health Lead at Bushbury Hill Primary School, added: “We are really grateful for the support and challenge you have provided us in helping us to improve mental health and wellbeing provision in our school and beyond.”
     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Community organisations invited to submit Expressions of Interests for Community Regeneration Funding

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    The Highland Council is inviting community groups and organisations to submit Expressions of Interest for Community Regeneration Funding (CRF) to finance capital projects that will respond to the needs of their local areas and deliver positive impacts.  

    Community Regeneration Funding is an umbrella term being used to cover multiple community-led external funding programmes being administered by the Highland Council.  This includes the Highland Coastal Communities Fund, Place-Based Investment Programme and Community-Led Local Development funds.

    The deadline to submit an Expression of Interest is 12pm Friday 28 March and the projects must be community-led.

    Chair of The Highland Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Cllr Ken Gowans said: “This first round of CRF has specific criteria in which applicants can bid into, and projects must be concluded and claimed by the end of February next year. We are encouraging shovel ready capital projects that will support community development to come forward and submit an Expression of Interest before the deadline of 28 March.

    “The demand for funding year on year highlights the huge effort from the community and the third sector in striving to achieve positive outcomes for local communities so I encourage anyone interest to get their expressions of interest submitted to the team by the deadline.”

     Applications that deliver against the following priorities are particularly sought:

    • Projects that support volunteers/volunteering initiatives
    • Projects that build capacity in community groups
    • Projects that promote or raise awareness of existing initiatives to support groups or individuals with the cost-of-living crisis
    • Projects that create jobs or build economic growth in an area
    • Projects that are actively tackling the climate emergency and working towards net zero

    Applicants are reminded that this first round of CRF is for capital only projects.  Project approvals are anticipated to be announced in April/May (pending confirmation of funds availability from Scottish Government) and applicants must be in a position to start from May 2025 and concluded and claimed no later than 28/02/2026.

    Applicants can apply for up to 100% project costs however they must demonstrate that there is a need for this level of intervention and that match funding options have been explored. 

    It is generally expected that funding requests should be a minimum of £5,000, and a maximum of £100,000.  Applicants should apply for the amount that is required for their project to be delivered. 

    Expressions of Interest should be submitted by 12pm Friday 28 March and a copy of the form can be found on the Council’s website where further information about the scheme is provided

    5 Mar 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK consultancy company highlights 2025 risks for businesses

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    UK consultancy company highlights 2025 risks for businesses

    In 2025, global risks to business will be driven by power vacuums and polarisation, conflict, and the double-edged sword of technological advancement.

    UK based consultancy company Control Risks presented the RiskMap2025 in Guatemala City on 4 March. The event took place at the British Residence with attendance of the British Ambassador, Juliana Correa; government contacts, businesspeople and decision makers.

    According to the RiskMap2025 events will be dominated by the change of administration in the US, ongoing conflicts such as the Ukraine war, increased trade barriers, more political violence and digital concentration of leading technologies, amongst other topics. Marina Pera, Control Risks analyst gave the presentation.

    The British Embassy is committed to support our economic ties with Guatemala with tools such as the RiskMap2025, to encourage better informed decisions and drive prosperity.

    To see the full RiskMap2025, please visit https://www.controlrisks.com/riskmap.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Victoria BID ballot, declaration of result | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Congratulations to Victoria BID on their successful BID Ballot result.

    As part of our statutory duty, we were appointed to hold a ballot for the Victoria Renewal and Alteration Business Improvement District (BID) covering the Victoria area.

    It was announced that the BID had been successful in their ballot. The majority of the business ratepayers in the proposed BID area who voted, voting in favour of the proposal, both by aggregate rateable value (97.1%) and numbers voting (96.3%). 204 of the total 375 eligible voters took part in the ballot.

    The Victoria BID will continue until 31 March 2030. The BID ballot opened on 3 February 2025 and closed on 3 March 2025. The BID ballot results were declared on 4 March 2025.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council secures secondary school place for every child despite increasing demand

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Wednesday, 5th March 2025

    The council has ensured that every child moving from primary to secondary school this September and requesting a place in a city school has been offered one – despite continued pressures on demand.

    A total of 3,161 secondary school places have been allocated – an increase of 1.7% from 2024 – including for those who applied after the 31 October 2023 deadline. The city council’s proactive approach has successfully met demand, securing places for all Year 7 applicants.

    This year, 86.8% of pupils received their first-choice school, even as the city experiences a significant rise in applications due to a long-term population increase.

    School place availability has been a national challenge in recent years, but the city council has ensured that every child requiring a Year 7 place has received one, despite ongoing demographic pressures. The rise in applications stems from a population surge beginning in the early 2000s, which has now moved from primary to secondary education.

    Additionally, the council’s investment in special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) provision means more children can access tailored support within their local communities, ensuring they receive the right help at the right time.

    Councillor Sarah Jane Colclough, the council’s cabinet member for education and anti-poverty, said: “It’s fantastic news that we’ve been able to meet the growing demand for school places and ensure every child has a place in Year 7 this September.

    “This is in no small part due to ongoing investment in education, including new schools like Co-op Academy Florence MacWilliams and new schemes support of increasing basic need – where local population increases have required more places. The rapid progress of this school is already making a real difference, helping to address the increasing demand for secondary places in the city.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Moor Park and Waverly Park get the green light for improvements

    Source: City of Preston

    Two Preston city parks have been given the green light for a multi-million pound revamp by the city’s Planning Committee this week.

    The plans, submitted by Preston-based S&L Planning Consultants, have been approved and the work will be carried out by Eric Wright Civil Engineering, which is due to start in the summer.

    Councillor Amber Afzal, Cabinet member for planning and regulation at Preston City Council for Planning Regulation and Chair of the Planning Committee said:

    “We are delighted that these plans have been passed and we can get started on the much needed improvements to our city’s treasured green spaces.

    “Given the special listed status that Moor Park enjoys, due respect has been given to the conservation areas and preserving and enhancing the historic park. Any new additions will make a positive contribution to the local character and distinctiveness of our parks.

    Councillor Freddie Bailey, Cabinet Member for Environment and Community Safety said:

    “We are looking forward to the improvements that will enhance our greenspaces that will also help to increase outdoor activity and greater leisure time, improving the health and wellbeing of our communities by delivering new, higher quality and more accessible sports and play facilities, better footpaths and landscaping to enjoy, in a safer environment.” 

    Gavin Hulme, Operations Director at Eric Wright Civil Engineering commented:

    “It’s great news that the planning applications have been passed for Waverley and Moor Parks. We have been working with Preston City Council, relevant stakeholders and our design teams over the last 12 months to ensure the works will bring lasting improvements to these two important parks. We are looking forward to starting works on site later this year and bringing benefits to the local communities.”

    Deborah Smith, Co-Founder of Smith and Love Planning Consultants said:

    “Preston is proud of its parks and we’re thrilled to have played a part in their improvement, providing important spaces for local residents and visitors to enjoy. The rejuvenated parks will also add to the ongoing regeneration of the city.”

    Improvements

    Moor Park

    Moor Park, which is the city’s oldest park and Grade II* listed, will undergo a £4m programme of improvements which include:

    • Extension and de-silting of Serpentine Lake and a new bridge across the lake
    • Improvements to the Loggia and surrounding area (the Loggia is an outdoor corridor with a fully covered roof and outer wall that is open to the elements)
    • Playground improvements
    • Additional tree and shrub planting
    • Improvements to the changing pavilion
    • Groundworks to create wildflower meadows
    • Improvements to the south-east entrance and car park

    Waverley Park

    Waverley Park, nearly £3.5m of improvements were approved at the previous February Planning Committee and include:

    • New Play area
    • Refurbishment of 3 football pitches
    • 1 x pump track
    • skate park improvements
    • Remodelling of car park with 27 x new car park spaces, creating 34 spaces in total
    • Widening footpaths and new landscaping
    • Demolition and rebuild of the football pavilion which already has planning permission
    • Both proposals will be funded by UK Government and are part of a £20m Levelling Up bid made to the previous government’s administration.

    More information

    Planning applications

    • 06/2024/1066 – Waverley Park, New Hall Lane
    • 06/2024/1121 – Moor Park, Moor Park Avenue

    Background of Moor Park

    Established in 1853 and later improved in the 1860s by leading Victorian landscaper Edward Milner, Moor Park was the first municipal park laid out by an industrial town. The design and ornamental character of the park has remained unrelatively unchanged since its inception.

    Preston City Council actively applies and prioritises the principles of Community Wealth Building wherever applicable and appropriate. Community Wealth Building is an approach which aims to ensure the economic system builds wealth and prosperity for everyone.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UN Human Rights Council 58: UK Statement at the Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Freedom of Religion or Belief

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    UN Human Rights Council 58: UK Statement at the Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Freedom of Religion or Belief

    UN Human Rights Council 58: UK Statement at the Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Freedom of Religion or Belief. Delivered by MP and the UK Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief, David Smith.

    Thank you, Madame Vice-President.

    The UK reiterates its commitment to protecting and promoting FoRB for all – including through my role as the UK’s Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief.

    The Special Rapporteur’s recent report on the intersection of FoRB and torture highlighted deeply concerning cases of violations and torture in detention centres. The report notes that in Myanmar, detainees were denied the right to observe their  faith through psychological torture and attempts by the State to change their religious identity. And in Sudan, non-Muslims were reportedly coerced to change their beliefs through denial of work, food aid and education.

    The UK unreservedly condemns the use of torture. Preventing torture and tackling impunity for those who torture is vital to safeguarding our security and rule of law. 

    We must collectively do more to address and prevent torture and ensure the fundamental right to freedom of religion or belief is protected. 

    Special Rapporteur, 

    What steps would you advise to ensure more States investigate cases of torture, and safeguard the right to freedom of religion or belief, in detention centres?

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Open letter to Co-op about land agreements restricting competition

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    Open letter to Co-op about land agreements restricting competition

    The Competition and Market Authority (CMA) has published a letter to Co-operative Group Limited concerning 107 breaches of the Groceries Market Investigation (Controlled Land) Order 2010.

    Documents

    Open letter to Co-op

    PDF, 191 KB, 2 pages

    List of affected locations

    PDF, 118 KB, 3 pages

    Details

    At the CMA’s request, Co-operative Group Limited (Co-op) has reviewed all of its land agreements. The CMA has found that these agreements were not compliant with the Groceries Market Investigation (Controlled Land) Order 2010 on 107 occasions. 

    Co-op has taken, and continues to take, steps to correct these breaches and the CMA has published a letter sent to Co-op following its investigation of these breaches. The CMA has also published a list of the locations affected by these breaches. 

    For more information, visit Groceries Market Investigation (Controlled Land) Order 2010.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 March 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Major investment to transform The Adelaide care home in Ryde 5 March 2025 Major investment to transform The Adelaide care home in Ryde

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    The Adelaide, a reablement care home located in Ryde, is set to undergo a major transformation thanks to a £1.1 million investment by the Isle of Wight Council.

    This much-needed upgrade aims to enhance the facility, which has been providing crucial support for Island residents since 1985.

    The Adelaide helps residents regain their independence following hospital stays or crises at home. Despite its long-standing service, the home has not seen any significant investment until now.

    The comprehensive refurbishment plan includes a full redecoration, reconfiguration of upstairs bedroom space to the ground floor, and improvements to office space.

    Additionally, the heating and ventilation systems will be upgraded, communal and shared spaces will be enhanced, and all windows will be replaced with modern double glazing.

    To facilitate these extensive renovations, it is necessary for The Adelaide to close to admissions. Contractors will take over the site from 1 April, with the refurbishment expected to last up to 12 months.

    During this period, the ten flats operated by Sovereign Housing, known as Adelaide Court, will remain occupied and operational.

    The staff from The Adelaide have been redeployed to various roles across the council. This includes bolstering the community outreach service, which aims to support more individuals in their own home following hospital stays.

    Councillor Debbie Andre, Cabinet member for adult social care, said: “This investment is a testament to our commitment to providing high-quality care and support for our residents.

    “The Adelaide has been a cornerstone of our community for decades, and these improvements will ensure it continues to serve our residents effectively for many years to come.”

    The project follows the completion last year of a £1.3 million renovation of The Adelaide’s sister home, The Gouldings in Freshwater, further demonstrating the council’s dedication to enhancing care facilities across the Island.

    The Adelaide is anticipated to reopen by March 2026, featuring 23 bedrooms and refreshed facilities designed to continue its mission of helping residents maintain their independence.

    Photo: Getty Images

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: IOM and IHP Expand Humanitarian Hub in Chad to Aid 220,000 Amid Sudan Crisis

    Source: International Organization for Migration (IOM)

    Farchana/ Geneva, 5 March 2025 – The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the International Humanitarian Partnership (IHP) completed this week the expansion of the humanitarian hub in Farchana, Chad, in a move that will enable as many as 220,000 more people impacted by the escalating crisis in Sudan to receive help.

    The expanded operational and accommodation capacity at the hub will strengthen cross-border interagency humanitarian operations for Sudan, the world’s worst displacement crisis. The expansion comes at a critical time, as the humanitarian crisis in Sudan continues to worsen, with the urgent need for food, shelter, healthcare, and protection at an all-time high. According to recent figures, nearly nine million people in the Darfur region alone require immediate assistance.

    “With the strengthened cross-border operations, IOM has already reached over 82,000 people in Darfur with critical humanitarian aid, and with the expansion of the Farchana hub, we are poised to provide life-saving assistance to an additional 220,000 people in the coming months,” said Pascal Reyntjens, IOM Chief of Mission in Chad. “The hub also enables greater collaboration between humanitarian actors, development agencies, and the government, which is essential for a comprehensive and sustainable response.”

    Since April 2023, more than 11.5 million people have been displaced within Sudan, and an additional 3.5 million have fled across borders, including an estimated 930,000 people who have crossed from Sudan into Chad. The crisis has created unprecedented humanitarian needs in Sudan and neighbouring countries, and the inter-agency humanitarian hub in Farchana, established jointly by IOM and IHP, plays a critical role in coordinating and supporting these cross-border efforts.

    The expansion includes office space, accommodations and other infrastructure that will help increase the operational capabilities of humanitarian organisations working in hard-to-reach field locations in Sudan. These enhancements enable international and national Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and UN agencies to further scale up cross-border operations from Chad into Darfur, where humanitarian needs are rapidly escalating.

    “Establishing a functional compound in eastern Chad was no small feat. The harsh climate, logistical constraints, and remote location pushed our team to its limits,” said Bram Krieps, IHP team leader during the 2024 operation. “But through the strength of IHP’s partnership and the determination of our experts, we turned a challenging environment into a secure and operational base that supports humanitarian cross-border efforts on the ground.”

    Note to editor

    The Farchana humanitarian hub, established in February 2024 with generous support from the governments of Luxembourg, Sweden and Germany through the IHP mechanism, serves as a vital coordination centre for 26 international and national NGOs and UN agencies facilitating cross-border aid delivery into the Darfur region of Sudan. Since its inception, the hub has supported 13 UN agencies, 31 international NGOs, one national NGO, and a government partner in their efforts to reach those most in need.

    Managed by IOM, the expanded humanitarian hub is part of a network of 17 inter-agency humanitarian hubs. These hubs, located across four countries, provide essential office, warehousing and accommodation space for over 1,660 humanitarian personnel, playing a crucial role in facilitating coordinated responses to humanitarian crises worldwide.

    For further information, please contact:

    From IOM:

    In Chad: Christina van Hooreweghe,  iomchadpublicinfo@iom.int

    In Sudan: Lisa George, lgeorge@iom.int

    In Cairo: Joe Lowry, jlowry@iom.int

    In Geneve: Kennedy Okoth, kokoth@iom.int

    From IHP:

    Max Steffen, max.steffen@cgdsi.lu

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: 21 Shares AG (the “Company”) – Announcement regarding changes to the board of Directors of the Company

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    21 Shares AG (the “Company”) – Announcement regarding changes to the board of Directors of the Company
     
    We are pleased to announce the following changes to the board of Directors of the Company  effective as of 1 March 2025
    * The appointment of Russell Barlow as chairman of the board of directors and Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”);
    * The appointment of Duncan Moir as a member of the board of directors and President. 
    * The appointment of Edel Bashir as a member of the board of directors and Chief Operating Officer (“COO”).

    Russell Barlow, 51, is contributing more than 25 years of expertise in regulated asset management. Previously, Russell was the Global Head of Multi Asset and Alternative Investment Solutions and Global Head of Alternatives at abrdn. Over the course of his career, he has designed, launched, and managed a wide range of investment products. Additionally, Russell has held a position as a Non-Executive Director at Archax, the UK’s first FCA-regulated digital asset exchange.

    Duncan Moir, 39, has deep expertise in crypto and blockchain strategy. Previously, Duncan was a Senior Investment Manager at abrdn. He is an independent board member of Hedera Hashgraph LLC and an advisor to Web3 companies. A University of Strathclyde graduate with a BA (Hons) in Economics, he is also a CFA and CAIA charterholder.

    Edel Bashir, 45, has over 20 years of experience in asset management. Previously, Edel was the COO of Multi Asset and Alternative Investment Solutions, COO of Alternatives and a Senior Investment Manager at abrdn. Her expertise includes operational strategy, portfolio management, and hedge fund research. A graduate of University College Cork, Ireland, with a BSc in Finance, she has held senior roles across Bermuda, Dublin, and Boston.

    Following the appointment of the aforementioned people as members of the board of directors, Hany Rashwan (former chairman of the board of directors and CEO) and Ophelia Snyder (former member of the board of directors and Chief Product Officer) resigned from their roles as directors of the Company on 1 March 2025, at which point the above mentioned individuals will assume responsibility for the aforementioned roles.

    Name, registered office and address of the Company:
    21Shares AG is a stock corporation under the laws of Switzerland. It has its registered office and address at Pelikanstrasse 37, 8001 Zurich.

    Contact Details:
    21Shares AG, attn. Mr. Eric Baumgartner, Pelikanstrasse 37, 8001 Zurich, Switzerland, email: legal@21.co
     
    Further Information:
    For further information, please refer to the Programme documentation, in particular the EU Base Prospectus dated November 28, 2024, the UK Base Prospectus dated May 22, 2024 , and the respective Final Terms as applicable. This Announcement neither constitutes a prospectus nor advertisement within the meaning of the Swiss Financial Services Act. Copies of the prospectus and any supplements thereto, if any, as well as copies of all transaction documents are available free of charge at 21Shares AG, Zurich (email: etp@21shares.com).

    Date of publication:
    5 March 2025
     
    * * *
    This document is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy or subscribe for securities of 21Shares AG.
    This document and the information contained herein is not for publication or distribution into the United States of America and should not be distributed or otherwise transmitted into the United States or to U.S. persons (as defined in the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act) or publications with a general circulation in the United States. This document does not constitute an offer or invitation to subscribe for or to purchase any securities in the United States of America. The securities referred to herein have not been and will not be registered under the Securities Act or the laws of any state and may not be offered or sold in the United States of America absent registration or an exemption from registration under Securities Act. There will be no public offering of the securities in the United States of America.
     
    The products are exchange traded products, which do not qualify as units of a collective investment scheme according to the relevant provisions of the Swiss Federal Act on Collective Investment Schemes (CISA), as amended, and are not licensed thereunder. Therefore, the products are neither governed by the CISA nor supervised or approved by the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority FINMA (FINMA). Accordingly, Investors do not have the benefit of the specific investor protection provided under the CISA.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Change in Bigbank’s 2025 Financial Calendar

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Bigbank announces a change in its 2025 financial calendar.

    Bigbank’s audited Annual Report for 2024 will be published on 7 March 2025. The report was previously scheduled for publication on 5 March 2025.

    Bigbank AS (www.bigbank.eu), with over 30 years of operating history, is a commercial bank owned by Estonian capital. As of 31 January 2025, the bank’s total assets amounted to 2.9 billion euros, with equity of 273 million euros. The bank operates in nine countries, serving more than 168,000 active customers and employing over 500 people. The credit rating agency Moody’s has assigned Bigbank a long-term bank deposit rating of Ba1, along with a baseline credit assessment (BCA) and an adjusted BCA of Ba2.

    Argo Kiltsmann
    Member of the Management Board
    Tel: +372 5393 0833
    Email: argo.kiltsmann@bigbank.ee
    www.bigbank.ee

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: MEF, Infosys, and IronYun Showcase NaaS GPU-as-a-Service for AI at the Edge Powered by NVIDIA

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BARCELONA, Spain, March 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEF, a global industry association of enterprises and network, cloud, security, and technology providers accelerating enterprise digital transformation, announced a cutting-edge demonstration of GPU-as-a-Service (GPUaaS) for AI at the Edge utilizing MEF’s Lifecycle Service Orchestration (LSO) APIs. In collaboration with Infosys, NVIDIA, and IronYun, MEF is showcasing the initiative this week at Mobile World Congress (MWC), in Barcelona, Spain, highlighting how service providers can monetize network infrastructure by offering enterprises scalable, real-time AI inferencing capabilities at the Edge.

    The MWC showcase demonstrates a fully automated process for enterprises to obtain pricing and place orders for GPU resources at the Edge, leveraging MEF’s standardized LSO APIs.

    • Infosys, a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting, presents a seamless ordering process that integrates service provider capabilities with enterprise systems, enabling AI models to function effectively at the Edge.
    • IronYun, a leader in video analytics, demonstrates security, safety and operational applications of the Vaidio AI Vision Platform running on GPUs at the Edge.

    This initiative marks a significant milestone in MEF’s AI strategy, driving the evolution of AI-powered networks.

    Unlocking AI at the Edge: A Game-Changer for Service Providers and Enterprises
    The rise of AI-driven applications demands powerful GPU resources close to data sources. Traditional cloud-based AI processing introduces latency, making Edge computing a critical solution. MEF’s Edge Compute Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) standard defines Edge IaaS, enabling Cloud Service Providers and Subscribers to compare offerings using a common framework. The next iteration expands its scope to include GPUaaS, standardizing the ability for service providers to deliver AI at the Edge with reduced latency and opens new revenue opportunities.

    “This initiative is a major leap forward in AI at the provider edge,” said Pascal Menezes, CTO, MEF. “By enabling service providers to offer GPU-as-a-Service, we are empowering enterprises to run AI inferencing at the Edge with greater scalability and efficiency. With this announcement, MEF, Infosys, NVIDIA, and IronYun are setting a new benchmark for AI services, paving the way for a future where AI at the Edge is seamlessly accessible, scalable, and monetizable.”

    A Fully Standardized, On-Demand AI Ecosystem
    MEF’s LSO APIs ensure interoperability and automation across service providers. Key features of GPUaaS include:

    • On-Demand GPU Resources – Enterprises can access high-performance GPUs at the Edge for AI inferencing without heavy upfront investments.
    • Seamless Ordering & Deployment – MEF’s API framework enables automated ordering, quoting, and activation of GPU resources across multiple providers.
    • Optimized AI Performance – Low-latency Edge computing enhances AI-driven applications, such as real-time video analytics and intelligent traffic management.

    Balakrishna D. R. (Bali), Executive Vice President, Global Services Head, AI and Industry Verticals, Infosys, said, “Unlocking AI at the Edge is crucial for enterprises to fully tap into AI’s potential. By integrating GPU-as-a-Service, Infosys empowers enterprises to run AI inferencing with lower latency and greater efficiency. Our solutions, built on advanced GPU resources and powered by Infosys Topaz and Infosys Cobalt, deliver scalable, high-performance AI at the Edge. Through our collaboration with MEF to standardize GPU-as-a-Service, we’re setting a new industry benchmark, enabling enterprises to harness AI for real-world impact.”

    “At IronYun, we’ve redefined what’s possible in video analytics by embedding intelligence into every layer of the Vaidio platform, delivering unmatched accuracy, scalability, and compute efficiency,” said Marshall Tyler, CEO of IronYun. “We truly appreciate the opportunity to partner with MEF to showcase our advanced vision AI through this groundbreaking GPU-as-a-Service initiative. By combining deployment flexibility with real-time inferencing power at the Edge, Vaidio empowers providers to monetize their networks, and enables enterprises in all sectors to unlock new levels of security and operational efficiency.”

    Live Demonstration at MWC 2025
    Attendees at MWC 2025 can experience GPUaaS in action at the Infosys booth, Hall 2 Stand #2E43. The demonstration showcases real-world AI applications, where Edge GPUs are provisioned via standardized APIs to power computer vision models for intelligent traffic management. This hands-on showcase highlights the business and technical advantages of AI at the network Edge.

    For more information about MEF visit www.MEF.net.

    About MEF
    MEF is a global consortium of enterprises and service, cloud, cybersecurity, and technology providers collaborating to accelerate enterprise digital transformation. It delivers standards-based frameworks, services, technologies, APIs, and certification programs to enable Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) across an automated ecosystem. MEF is the defining authority for certified Lifecycle Service Orchestration (LSO) business and operational APIs and Carrier Ethernet, SASE, SD-WAN, Zero Trust, and Security Service Edge (SSE) technologies and services. MEF’s Global NaaS Event (GNE) convenes industry leaders building and delivering the next generation of NaaS solutions. For more information about MEF, visit MEF.net and follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter. 

    Media Contact:
    Melissa Power
    MEF
    pr@mef.net

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: TotalEnergies’ Mike Sangster to Headline Invest in African Energy Forum in Paris

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

    PARIS, France, March 5, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Mike Sangster, Senior Vice President for Africa at TotalEnergies, will deliver a keynote address at the Invest in African Energy (IAE) Forum in Paris this May. Sangster will also participate in an exclusive fireside chat, offering critical insights into the company’s vision for Africa’s energy future, its ongoing projects and the evolving role of oil and gas in the continent’s energy mix.

    TotalEnergies continues to drive oil and gas development across Africa, with a strong focus on both emerging and mature markets. In Namibia, the company is advancing its Venus-1 discovery, targeting first oil by the decade’s end, with an FID expected in early 2026 for a development producing 150,000 barrels per day. TotalEnergies is also exploring additional prospects in the Orange Basin, having recently drilled the Marula-1X and Tabmoti-1X wells. In the Republic of Congo, the company is investing $600 million to expand deepwater production at the Moho Nord field, while in Libya, it plans to complete an onshore exploration project and lead new drilling campaigns in the Waha and Sharara fields in 2025.

    IAE 2025 (www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com) is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 13-14, 2025 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    Meanwhile, TotalEnergies is expanding its gas processing and midstream infrastructure across Africa, strengthening its role in the continent’s evolving energy landscape. In Mozambique, the company is progressing with the Mozambique LNG project, a $20 billion development expected to secure renewed financial backing from export credit agencies. I Uganda, TotalEnergies is gearing up for first oil from its Tilenga field in 2025, with crude transported via the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP). Once operational, EACOP will be the longest heated crude oil pipeline globally, significantly enhancing East Africa’s ability to monetize its hydrocarbon resources and attract further investment into the region’s energy sector.

    TotalEnergies is also expanding its renewable energy footprint in Africa through strategic investments in solar, wind, hydropower and green hydrogen. The company is advancing its 500 MW Sadada solar project in Libya and acquired Scatec’s hydropower portfolio on the continent in July 2024, including the 250 MW Bujagali Hydropower Plant in Uganda and stakes in projects in Malawi, Rwanda and the DRC. In South Africa, TotalEnergies is constructing a 216 MW solar plant with battery storage, along with a 140 MW wind farm and a 120 MW solar facility, set to supply green electricity to Sasol’s industrial operations. In Morocco, the company is developing the Chbika project, a 1 GW wind and solar farm designed to produce 200,000 metric tons of green ammonia annually for export to Europe. These initiatives align with TotalEnergies’ strategy to integrate renewables into its portfolio while supporting Africa’s energy transition.

    Sangster’s participation at IAE 2025 comes at a pivotal time for Africa’s energy sector, as investors and policymakers navigate a shifting global energy landscape. His keynote address and fireside chat will provide valuable perspectives on the role of private investment in African energy, strategies for unlocking new upstream opportunities and how TotalEnergies is adapting to the continent’s long-term energy needs.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM call with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine: 4 March 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    PM call with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine: 4 March 2025

    The Prime Minister spoke to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine this afternoon.

    The Prime Minister spoke to the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, this afternoon.

    The Prime Minister updated on his discussion with President Trump last night. It was vital that all parties worked towards a lasting and secure peace for Ukraine as soon as possible, the Prime Minister added.

    Turning to President Zelenskyy’s most recent calls for further diplomatic efforts to achieve the swiftest possible end to the war, the Prime Minister welcomed President Zelenskyy’s steadfast commitment to securing peace.

    Underscoring that any peace for Ukraine needed to be lasting and secure, the Prime Minister said no one wanted peace more than Ukraine.

    The leaders agreed to stay in close touch in the coming days.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: South Tyneside Council: Local Plan intervention letter

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    South Tyneside Council: Local Plan intervention letter

    Local Plan intervention: letter from the Minister of State for Housing and Planning, Matthew Pennycook MP, to South Tyneside Council.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    South Tyneside Council: Local Plan intervention letter

    PDF, 124 KB, 3 pages

    This file may not be suitable for users of assistive technology.

    Request an accessible format.
    If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email alternativeformats@communities.gov.uk. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

    South Tyneside Council: Local Plan intervention letter

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    Details

    The Minister of State for Housing and Planning, Matthew Pennycook MP, has written to South Tyneside Council directing them to submit their local plan for examination.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 March 2025

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) – 5 March 2025

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Watch PMQs with British Sign Language (BSL) – https://youtube.com/live/EdzUODQFHoM

    Prime Minister’s Question Time, also referred to as PMQs, takes place every Wednesday the House of Commons sits. It gives MPs the chance to put questions to the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, or a nominated minister.

    In most cases, the session starts with a routine ‘open question’ from an MP about the Prime Minister’s engagements. MPs can then ask supplementary questions on any subject, often one of current political significance.

    The Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch MP, asks six questions and the leader of the second largest opposition party asks two. If another minister takes the place of the Prime Minister, opposition parties will usually nominate a shadow minister to ask the questions.

    Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:

    Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/HouseofCommons
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ukhouseofcommons
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ukhouseofcommons

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHZi-5LGJy4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Prime Minister’s Questions with British Sign Language (BSL) – 5 March 2025

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Prime Minister’s Question Time, also referred to as PMQs, takes place every Wednesday the House of Commons sits. It gives MPs the chance to put questions to the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, or a nominated minister.

    In most cases, the session starts with a routine ‘open question’ from an MP about the Prime Minister’s engagements. MPs can then ask supplementary questions on any subject, often one of current political significance.

    The Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch MP, asks six questions and the leader of the second largest opposition party asks two. If another minister takes the place of the Prime Minister, opposition parties will usually nominate a shadow minister to ask the questions.

    Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:

    Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/HouseofCommons
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ukhouseofcommons
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ukhouseofcommons

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Earlier Cancer Detection campaign focuses on head and neck cancers

    Source: Scottish Government

    People across Scotland encouraged to get potential symptoms checked earlier.

    EMBARGO: 0001 Thursday 6th March 2025

    The latest phase of the Scottish Government’s ‘Be the Early Bird’ campaign has a new focus on head and neck cancer symptoms.

    Around 1,300 new cases are diagnosed each year – Scotland’s sixth most common cancer – yet only one third are detected early. The campaign encourages people to recognise possible cancer symptoms and not delay contacting their GP practice or dentist.

    To emphasise this message, a group of people who had cancer detected early, the ‘early birds’, met Health Secretary Neil Gray to share their stories of how this provided more treatment options, helped them live well and allowed them to continue doing the things they love. The group are urging people with unusual, persistent symptoms to do the same and act early.

    Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care Neil Gray said: “Early detection is so important to cancer care. The stories from our ‘early birds’ demonstrate the positive impact it can have on treatment and outcomes.

    “So, I’m urging everyone to make sure they contact their GP practice about any unusual, persistent symptoms. The sooner we act, the better the chances for treatment and recovery. So, let’s be vigilant – if something doesn’t feel right, don’t wait, get checked early.”

    Dr Gillian Leslie, Deputy Chief Dental Officer for Scotland, said: “Head and neck cancer incidence rates have gradually increased over the past decade, making early detection more important than ever. Dentists play a vital role in detecting signs of cancer. Routine dental examinations allow us to identify subtle changes in the mouth and throat, and surrounding tissues that could signal early-stage cancer.

    “Early diagnosis leads to better treatment options, so we urge people to attend their check-ups. Most importantly, if you notice any sores, lumps, red or white patches that do not go away after three weeks, don’t wait until your next appointment – we want to see you. It’s crucial not to dismiss any potential symptoms. Get checked right away.”

    Dr Douglas Rigg, GP said: “If you are worried about unexplained bleeding, an unusual lump, unexplained weight loss or something that doesn’t feel normal for you, we want to know. Don’t be embarrassed or sit at home worrying, give your GP practice a call. It probably won’t be cancer but if it is, finding cancer earlier can mean a much wider range of treatment options being available, and a better chance of living well again.”

    Case study

    Daniel Morrison, 30, from Cambuslang, Lanarkshire, was one of the early birds at the breakfast meeting with Neil Gray. He was diagnosed with salivary gland cancer but is now recovering and living well with his young family thanks to early detection at his GP practice.

    Daniel said: “It’s thanks to spotting my cancer early that I’m now delighted to say I’m in recovery and able to look forward excitedly to the future with my young family.

    “I’d noticed fluid under my tongue and felt really fatigued but it’d be easy to try and ignore as nothing. I’m so thankful however that I got checked early, treated and looked after by a team of amazing medical experts throughout.

    “This is why I’m passionate about the Scottish Government’s Be the Early Bird campaign – it’s so important that people understand the difference contacting your GP practice early can make.”

    Background

    The Scottish Government’s ‘Be the Early Bird’ campaign, aims to reinforce the benefits of finding cancer at an earlier stage when there are more treatment options available, a greater likelihood of living well after treatment, and better news to tell the family.

    The campaign features a new early bird ‘Bonnie the Seagull’ who has a neck lump to highlight possible head and neck symptoms. The campaign runs throughout March across Out of Home advertising, digital platforms and targeted field activity in supermarkets.

    Watch the campaign film here.

    For more information on ‘Be the Early Bird’ and to use the symptom checker, please visit getcheckedearly.org.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Salford City Council secure conviction against private hire driver

    Source: City of Salford

    • Salford licensed private hire driver pleads guilty for the offence of illegally plying for hire relating to July 2023 offence
    • Ordered to pay £400 in fines, £1,200 in costs and a victim surcharge of £160
    • Salford City Council regards criminal offences committed by licensees whilst working as taxi and private hire drivers as extremely serious, particularly the offence of illegally plying for hire

    A Salford licensed private hire driver, Mr Arif Mohammad, has pleaded guilty at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court following a complaint from a member of the public, which Salford City Council Licensing Service investigated.

    The complainant reported that Mr Mohammad had overcharged her for a private hire journey having attended a concert at Bolton Stadium. Following the event, the complainant had approached Mr Mohammad’s private hire vehicle and asked if he could take her and three other people to a hotel. Mr Mohammad agreed to the journey without there being a booking in place with a private hire operator. The law requires that all private hire journeys are booked through a private hire operator. Failure to do so can result in the driver’s motor insurance being invalid.  

    When interviewed in respect of the suspected offence, Mr Arif Mohammad admitted offering the journey without a booking through a private hire operator, describing it as a “big mistake”, stating he was “very sorry”.  

    Salford City Council is responsible for regulating taxi and private hire drivers licensed with the authority. Criminal offences committed by licensees whilst working as taxi and private hire drivers are regarded as extremely serious, particularly the offence of illegally plying for hire. The offence can lead to a licence being suspended or revoked or an application to renew the licence being refused. 

    Mr Arif Mohammad has been ordered to pay £400 in fines, £1,200 in costs and a victim surcharge of £160. The offence related to a breach of:

    • The Town and Police Clauses Act 1847

    With its commitment to building a fairer, greener, healthier and more inclusive city for all, Salford City Council Licensing Service will continue to work with licensees to support safe and high quality taxi and private hire services, taking enforcement action where necessary. 

    Councillor Barbara Bentham, Salford City Council’s Lead Member for Neighbourhoods, Environment and Community Safety said: “Taxi and private hire services are an important part of the transport network, and we thank all of our licensees that operate to a safe and high standard. Drivers have a duty to operate in accordance with the law and the conditions of their licence and the authority will not hesitate to take enforcement action where necessary. As a reminder, a private hire vehicle must always be booked through a licensed operator.”

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    Date published
    Wednesday 5 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government funding for rural communities set out

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Government funding for rural communities set out

    Rural communities are set to benefit from up to £38 million in funding.

    Up to £33 million will be directed to the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF), which is used to improve local infrastructure and essential services that benefit rural communities and help businesses in rural areas to expand, creating jobs and kickstarting the rural economy. 

    Examples of the types of projects that will be eligible for funding from the REPF include: 

    • Creation of rural business hubs providing shared workspace and networking opportunities for rural businesses. 

    • Development of new products, facilities or building conversions to help rural businesses diversify outside of agriculture. 

    • Community gardens and greenspaces.  

    • The creation of new footpaths and development of local visitor trails.  

    • Kitchens in community hubs and improvements to premises used by local volunteering groups, such as youth charities or carers groups. 

    In addition, Defra has also announced up to a further £5 million in funding to go towards the continuation of important services for rural communities. Part of this funding will go towards The Rural Community Assets Fund, which provides capital funding for the refurbishment and development of community-owned assets, such as village halls or community centres. 

    This funding will also support Rural Housing Enablers, who help to bring forward sites to provide affordable housing opportunities in rural areas with people who need them. This comes alongside a grant for Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE) to provide advice and support to rural community and voluntary groups that offer social inclusion activities, affordable warmth advice, and community transport. 

    As part of the Plan for Change, the Government is working to promote economic growth across the country, including in rural areas. This funding will help to support local economies and sustain communities across the countryside 

    REPF allocations to individual local authorities will be made in line with the existing allocations methodology, with final confirmed allocations to be published in due course.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 March 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement to the 108th Session of the Executive Council of the OPCW

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Statement to the 108th Session of the Executive Council of the OPCW

    Statement to the 108th Session of the Executive Council of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, by Her Excellency Joanna Roper, Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

    Mr Chairperson, Director General, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates,

    Let me start by extending my thanks to His Excellency, Director General Fernando Arias, for his comprehensive report demonstrating the significant and increasing demands on this organisation and the progress he has made. I would also like to thank His Excellency, Ambassador Terán Parral for chairing this session and for his excellent leadership of the Executive Council since May 2023.

    Mr Chairperson,

    At long last, with the collapse of the Assad regime, Syria is now in a position to take a fresh approach to its engagement with the OPCW and finally close the file on the chemical weapons programme. This is an opportunity that few could have imagined 12 months ago.

    We welcome commitments made by Syria’s Interim Authorities to cooperate with the Technical Secretariat and international community to this end. We warmly welcome the DG’s report of his recent visit and note on the way forward. We look ahead to the rapid deployment of OPCW technical teams on the ground to help Syria deliver a full, complete and accurate declaration; and to start destruction. And I would like to thank the Permanent Representative of Qatar for representing Syria’s interests at the OPCW since December so effectively. 

    After more than a decade, we are urging Syria to turn the page on the horrific legacy of Assad’s chemical weapons programme and we must support it to do so. We call on States Parties to support the Technical Secretariat and the Syrian Arab Republic to complete the job of destroying the Assad Regime’s chemical weapons. The UK has recently announced additional funding for the OPCW’s Syria Missions – we have given a total of more than £1m to the OPCW’s Syria Trust Fund over the past year. And yesterday, Mr Chairperson, I sent a letter to the Director General, confirming that we will provide a comprehensive offer of practical support to him and his team later this month.

    Mr Chairperson,

    I wish that I could reflect positive progress on other states of concern. Russia continues to undermine the Chemical Weapons Convention. It is now three years since Russia started a war of aggression against Ukraine – a brutal attack on the sovereignty, political independence and territorial integrity of a democratic state. As my Prime Minister said last week: “For three years we have been united in opposition to Russia’s barbaric invasion. And for three years we have been full of admiration for the incredible response of the Ukrainian people.”

    Let there be no doubt, UK support to Ukraine will remain steadfast.

    Russia continues to use chemical weapons in Ukraine. We note the conclusions of the Technical Secretariat’s most recent Technical Assistance Visit report issued on 14 February. This report confirmed the presence of CS gas in samples taken from three separate incidents in Ukraine, establishing a pattern of violations of the CWC across a wide geographic area. There must now be attribution for such attacks, and the perpetrators must be held to account.

    We must not forget Russia has form in regularly violating international law concerning chemical weapons. Seven years ago today, on 4 March 2018, Russia deployed Novichok nerve agent on the streets of the United Kingdom. This attack resulted in the tragic death of Dawn Sturgess. Russia also used Novichok to poison Alexei Navalny in Russia in 2020. 

    Mr Chairperson,

    Russia has set a damaging example. We must defend the fundamental principles of the Chemical Weapons Convention. We are extremely concerned by reports which suggest that the Sudanese Armed Forces have used chemical weapons in Sudan. Sudan, like any other State Party to the Chemical Weapons Convention, must abide by its obligations.

    Mr Chairperson,

    We also welcome the Technical Secretariat’s response to the opportunities and risks of emerging technology. The excellent Morocco AI Conference in October, and the AI Research Challenge, co-funded by the UK, provide a sound foundation for our collective efforts to capture the benefits of new technologies, and to understand the security risks they will pose.

    Mr Chairperson,

    The Director General is critical to the success of this organisation. This body has important work to do over the coming months to find a worthy successor to Director General Arias.  As the British say, they will have big shoes to fill.

    Events in Syria and continuing Russian breaches demonstrate that the OPCW remains central to international security. This Council must provide its unwavering support for every aspect of the OPCW’s work at this critical juncture.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Global Leaders Convene in Rome for the 2025 IDEAS-NDB Conference on Evaluation for Transformational Change

    Source: New Development Bank

    Rome, Italy, 5 March 2025: Global leaders, policymakers and evaluation experts have come together in Rome for the first day of the 2025 IDEAS-NDB Conference, on the topic of “Multi-Dimensional Evaluation for Influence & Transformation”. Jointly organised by International Development Evaluation Association (IDEAS) and the Independent Evaluation Office (IEO) of the New Development Bank (NDB), the conference will examine how evaluation can drive real-world transformational change in today’s complex global landscape. Lasting for two days, the event is being held at the headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

    With the world facing rising geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, climate change and widening social inequities, the role of evaluation in shaping evidence-based decision-making has never been more crucial.

    The FAO Director-General Dr. Qu Dongyu highlighted the important role of evaluation as the cornerstone of learning and innovation to ensure effective sustainable development policies, stating: “We cannot solve food security challenges without understanding efficiency, effectiveness and the impacts of investment. Evaluation must move beyond metrics – it must shape the policies and innovations that will help us ensure sufficient and healthy foods for future generations. I believe that this conference can be a stepping-stone towards driving meaningful progress.”

    The event welcomed around 400 global delegates, with Professor Michael Kremer, winner of the 2019 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economics, delivering the keynote speech on the conference theme of multi-dimensional evaluation for influence and transformation. He was joined by senior government officials, policy and decision-makers, high-level officials and heads of evaluation offices from major multilateral development institutions, and representatives of academic and research institutions, non-governmental organizations, the private sector and others.

    Over the two days, the conference will feature high-level discussions, expert panels, and strategy sessions examining a range of interconnected themes crucial to evaluation’s role in tackling the world’s most pressing challenges. These include how evaluation supports progress in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and understanding the complex relationships between the goals; addressing the nexus of climate change, crises, and development through robust evaluation; recognising the importance of context and culture in shaping evaluation practices; mainstreaming gender equality, human rights, and equity within evaluation frameworks; building evaluation capacity at all levels; and exploring evaluation for sustainable development in the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) and other emerging markets and developing countries (EMDCs), which are priority areas for NDB.

    With participation from government agencies, multilateral institutions, the private sector, civil society organisations, and evaluation professionals, the event serves as a global call to action—pushing for more impact-driven, inclusive, and forward-looking evaluation frameworks.

    Ashwani K. Muthoo, Director General of IEO at NDB underscored the urgency for evaluators to change and innovate: “Evaluation must evolve to reflect the complexity of today’s world. We must go beyond traditional metrics to capture lived experiences, measure systemic change, and ensure that development efforts truly reach those who need them most.”

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    New Development Bank (NDB)

    NDB is a multilateral bank established in 2015 by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) with the aim of mobilising resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in BRICS countries and emerging markets and developing countries (EMDCs). In alignment with its members’ development objectives and commitments under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement, NDB prioritises high-impact operations that are climate-smart, disaster-resilient, technology-integrated, and socially inclusive. NDB’s Independent Evaluation Office (IEO) is responsible for independently evaluating the Bank’s policies, strategies, processes, initiatives and operations. IEO also contributes and provides oversight to improve the effectiveness of the Bank’s quality assurance and self-evaluation activities.

    MIL OSI Economics –