NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Zoë Garbett AM responds to police use of force at Palestine protest

    Source: Mayor of London

    Responding to the Palestine protest that took place on Monday 23rd June, Zoë Garbett Green Party London Assembly Member has said:  

    “While the full picture of what has happened is still unclear, I’ve heard deeply disturbing accounts from protestors on the ground describing the use of excessive force by police against peaceful demonstrators. 

    “The initial statement issued by the Met was chilling and it did not reflect a commitment to public safety, but of a premeditated decision to confront protesters with force. [1] 

     “The right to protest is a basis of any healthy democracy – it must be defended and protected. Tactics to intimidate and supress our right to protest should be challenged, and I’ll be doing so in my capacity as an Assembly Member.” 

     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Researcher Spotlight: Violeta Sanchez i Nogue’s Journey to Bioprocess Development at NREL

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    On a Christmas morning in the early 1990s, in a small town north of Barcelona, a young Violeta Sanchez i Nogue’s interest in chemistry was born. She unwrapped a junior chemistry lab kit that would ignite a love of science and lead to a successful career as a senior researcher at NREL.

    Violeta Sanchez i Nogue, now a senior researcher, started her career at NREL as a postdoctoral researcher. Photo by Werner Slocum, NREL

    “With the kit, you could run lots of different assays inside glass tubes with different chemical compounds,” Sanchez i Nogue said. “It even had an alcohol burner! In retrospect probably not the safest game, but you can imagine lots of color changes and fume generation when reactions were taking place. I had lots of fun playing with this game with my sister, and I was just fascinated by it.”

    With visions of someday working in a chemistry lab, Sanchez i Nogue took an opportunity to expand her horizons by joining an engineering boot camp during the summer before high school graduation.

    “I really enjoyed it, as it gave me exposure to university-level research,” she said. “We spent a couple of weeks taking environmental samples in the Pyrenees and analyzing them in a lab the university had installed at the mountain hostel. Most of the researchers were from the chemical engineering department, so I had the chance to learn about the types of research they were doing.”

    Combining Scientific Passions

    Needless to say, she was hooked. She decided to combine her two interests and pursue a degree in chemical engineering at the Autonomous University of Barcelona. During her undergraduate studies, she completed an internship at Lund University in Sweden, where she later returned to earn a Ph.D. in engineering. It was here that she became familiar with NREL’s leading work on lignocellulosics and bioethanol—the focus of her thesis.

    Sanchez i Nogue worked for a startup company developing yeast strains and processes for second-generation ethanol and other biotech applications. In the summer of 2015, she joined NREL as a postdoctoral researcher working on a project to produce renewable carbon fibers.

    “It just felt like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity when a colleague from grad school sent me the job posting,” Sanchez i Nogue said. “It was a relatively big project with universities, other national labs, and industrial partners. This first project was ambitious, and the fermentations I was running were really fast, but it was an amazing experience to be able to work with a highly multidisciplinary team. After a few months of being at NREL, I had the opportunity to join another project, which I am still part of.”

    Working With Microorganisms

    “While one might think the challenges an organism faces when we put them in bioreactors are really different compared to their native environment, you can actually leverage lots of natural strengths and weaknesses from learning about their origins,” Sanchez i Nogue said.

    Violeta Sanchez i Nogue works with digesters in NREL’s Field Test Laboratory Building. Photo from Violeta Sanchez i Nogue, NREL

    Most of her projects have parallel efforts across the laboratory in metabolic engineering, separations, catalysis, and analysis.

    “Working on multidisciplinary projects with people who all have unique sets of expertise and backgrounds can be challenging at times,” Sanchez i Nogue said. “But it always feels like a pivotal moment when synergies occur because people work together.”

    “I love the fact that I learn something new every single day,” she said. “I have what I consider one of the greatest privileges in a job: I work with dedicated, hard-working, and kind people, and this is a pleasure not everyone has.”

    Seeking New Challenges

    While the development of core capabilities happens on a laboratory scale, Sanchez i Nogue also works at the pilot scale in NREL’s Integrated Biorefinery Research Facility and externally with different industrial and university project partners.

    Given her proclivity for collaboration, Sanchez i Nogue is not one to shy away from a new challenge. In 2023, she worked to onboard new operations in NREL’s Field Test Laboratory Building to be able to use different types of organic waste (including food waste, manure, and wastewater). Today, she is doing similar work on setting up an aerobic gas fermentation system in NREL’s new Research and Innovation Laboratory that will allow the use of hydrogen, oxygen, and flue gases.

    “Deploying new capabilities in the lab is often challenging,” Sanchez i Nogue said. “Who do we bring to the table to help moving things forward? How does it fit into the current lab operations? Which changes will be needed to implement it safely? It is a lot of work behind the scenes.”

    Sanchez i Nogue’s behind-the-scenes work has a history of paying off.

    “Over these last years, I have been fortunate to work with people who took our challenges as theirs, and that has allowed for instrumental changes to the system,” she said. “I am happy to contribute to expanding NREL’s bioeconomy and sustainable transportation research capabilities!”

    Living Beyond the Lab

    Outside of work, Sanchez i Nogue enjoys cooking, baking, reading, gardening, and raising her 2-year-old daughter, which includes answering endless whys about people and nature’s curiosities.

    “We recently had a nice opportunity to see a couple of robins nesting in our front yard, so we talked about how and why they were constructing the nest, laying the eggs, incubating them, feeding them, teaching them to fly, and more,” she said. “She is also fascinated by butterflies and has just started to distinguish ants from spiders.”

    Her daughter’s expanding love of learning about the world around her mirrors that of her own, nurtured by the fateful junior chemistry lab kit from many Christmases ago.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • India’s total exports rise by nearly 6% in April-June 2025; electronic goods lead growth

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s overall exports, comprising merchandise and services, rose to an estimated USD 210.31 billion during April-June 2025, registering a growth of 5.94 per cent compared to USD 198.52 billion during the same period last year, according to official estimates released today.

    The cumulative value of merchandise exports stood at USD 112.17 billion, marking a growth of 1.92 per cent over USD 110.06 billion recorded during April-June 2024. Notably, non-petroleum exports grew by nearly 6 per cent to reach USD 94.77 billion during the same period.

    Key drivers of growth include robust performances by sectors such as Electronic Goods, Drugs and Pharmaceuticals, Engineering Goods, Marine Products and Meat, Dairy and Poultry Products.

    Electronic Goods emerged as a standout performer, with exports jumping by 46.93 per cent to USD 4.15 billion in June 2025, up from USD 2.82 billion in June 2024. Exports of Drugs and Pharmaceuticals rose by 5.95 per cent to USD 2.62 billion, while Engineering Goods exports recorded a modest growth of 1.35 per cent to USD 9.50 billion.

    Exports of Marine Products rose by 13.33 per cent, while Meat, Dairy and Poultry Products witnessed a rise of 19.7 per cent.

    Merchandise and Services Trade

    During June 2025, India’s overall exports were estimated at USD 67.98 billion, reflecting a 6.5 per cent increase compared to June 2024. Total imports stood at USD 71.50 billion, registering a marginal rise of 0.50 per cent.

    Merchandise exports during June 2025 remained stable at USD 35.14 billion compared to USD 35.16 billion in June last year, while imports fell slightly to USD 53.92 billion from USD 56 billion a year ago.

    In the services sector, exports for June 2025 were estimated at USD 32.84 billion, up from USD 28.67 billion in June 2024, while imports rose to USD 17.58 billion from USD 15.14 billion.

    Trade Deficit Narrows

    India’s overall trade deficit narrowed to USD 3.51 billion in June 2025, compared to USD 7.30 billion in the same month last year. The merchandise trade deficit for April-June 2025 widened to USD 67.26 billion as against USD 62.10 billion a year ago, but the services trade surplus increased to USD 46.95 billion from USD 39.68 billion during April-June 2024.

    Non-Petroleum and Non-Gems & Jewellery Trade

    Exports excluding petroleum and gems & jewellery rose to USD 28.74 billion in June 2025 from USD 27.43 billion in June 2024. Imports in the same category remained stable at USD 36.57 billion compared to USD 36.55 billion a year ago.

    For the April-June quarter, non-petroleum and non-gems & jewellery exports stood at USD 88.10 billion, marking an increase from USD 82.16 billion in the same period last year.

    Key Commodities and Destinations

    Among commodities, Electronic Goods, Tea, Jute Manufacturing including Floor Coverings, Other Cereals, Cereal Preparations, Fruits & Vegetables, Plastics, Carpet, Chemicals, Textiles and Rice posted positive growth during June 2025.

    On the other hand, imports of Pulses, Newsprint, Gold, Transport Equipment, Coal, Pearls and Precious Stones, Project Goods and Iron & Steel recorded a decline during the month.

    The United States, China, Kenya, France and Brazil emerged as the top five export destinations showing positive growth in June 2025 compared to June 2024. Ireland, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand and China were among the top sources registering growth in imports during the month.

    For the quarter, the United States, China, Kenya, Germany and Australia led growth in export destinations, while China, UAE, Ireland, the United States and Hong Kong were the top sources for imports.

    Services Exports Surge

    Services exports grew by 10.93 per cent during April-June 2025, reaching USD 98.13 billion compared to USD 88.46 billion a year earlier. Services imports also rose to USD 51.18 billion from USD 48.78 billion.

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – A simpler tax architecture to benefit EU firms and citizens

    Source: European Parliament 3

    MEPs on Tuesday adopted suggestions for reforms to the tax architecture to boost competitiveness while continuing to address tax avoidance and evasion.

    The report, drafted by Michalis Hadjipantela (EPP, CY), was adopted in the Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee by 46 votes in favour, 2 votes against and 11 abstentions. It will feed into the ongoing legislative work on legislative simplification, more particularly a dedicated Commission proposal expected in early 2026.

    The report presents a host of ideas for simplifying tax compliance and eliminating administrative hurdles in the internal market. This would reduce the financial cost of compliance – notably for SMEs, which, the report says, is a cost of 30% of the taxes they pay.

    The suggestions would also make it easier for governments to administer and collect taxes, contributing to reduced tax evasion and avoidance and mobilising more resources for states to invest elsewhere.

    Tax simplification

    The report urges the Commission to establish an EU Tax Data Hub to improve the automatic exchange of tax information and reduce administrative burden. This would also help identifying and eliminating all instances of duplicate reporting to relieve taxpayers of double reporting obligations. The Hub would also serve as a single access point for tax administrations across the EU.

    In order to mobilise more of Europe’s savings lying on low-interest paying bank accounts, MEPs say that tax declaration procedures for savings and investment accounts should be simplified so that more people would feel encouraged to invest in the EU’s capital markets.

    The adopted text also says that streamlining the use of the Tax Identification Number across member states could help administrative cooperation and reporting. Finally, the Commission is asked to assess and simplify the current VAT framework, the Directive on Administration Cooperation in Tax matters, and the Anti Tax Avoidance Directive.

    MEPs stress that simplification alone will not be enough, as it is also important to invest in the capacity of tax authorities to ensure existing reporting obligations are used to their fullest potential.

    Continue fighting tax fraud, avoidance and evasion

    MEPs underline that any simplification exercise must not undermine fighting tax fraud, avoidance or evasion. They say further tax coordination between member states in tackling tax evasion and avoidance is important to facilitate cross-border economic activity.

    Specifically, the report calls for enhanced collaboration between the European Public Prosecutor’s Office and Eurofisc to strengthen intelligence-sharing, coordinated enforcement efforts and cross-border investigations.

    Tax barriers

    MEPs ask the Commission to survey existing tax related obstacles for the single market and present an action plan to tackle them. Particularly, they invite the Commission to assess the benefits and drawbacks of a single set of EU-wide rules for innovative companies (the so-called 28th regime), which would also provide a single set of tax laws.

    Finally, MEPs call for measures to deal with the tax issues facing trans-frontier workers and digital nomads, as well simplifying the R&D tax incentive schemes.

    Quote of the rapporteur

    “This Report is calling for a simpler, more transparent and predictable EU tax framework that reduces complexity, administrative burden and increases our competiveness. With rising economic pressures and global competition, a simpler tax framework is vital. The report urges simplification, clearer rules, removal of inefficiencies, while upholding standards against tax evasion and aggressive tax planning. To boost competiveness, we call for thorough impact assessments, greater use of digital tools to reduce compliance costs, standardised templates, improved coordination among Member States, and revision of unnecessary rules that burden especially SMEs. A fair and business-friendly system is crucial for SMEs, which are the backbone of the European economy and essential for growth across Member States, especially in smaller economies, like my country Cyprus. This will help ensure a competitive, resilient, and inclusive Single Market for all.”

    Background

    Although not part of an official legislative procedure, this “own initiative report” provides political signalling regarding the EP’s political priorities in anticipation of legislation which would soon be proposed by the Commission. In this case, a legislative proposal on tax simplification is expected in early 2026.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – A simpler tax architecture to benefit EU firms and citizens

    Source: European Parliament 3

    MEPs on Tuesday adopted suggestions for reforms to the tax architecture to boost competitiveness while continuing to address tax avoidance and evasion.

    The report, drafted by Michalis Hadjipantela (EPP, CY), was adopted in the Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee by 46 votes in favour, 2 votes against and 11 abstentions. It will feed into the ongoing legislative work on legislative simplification, more particularly a dedicated Commission proposal expected in early 2026.

    The report presents a host of ideas for simplifying tax compliance and eliminating administrative hurdles in the internal market. This would reduce the financial cost of compliance – notably for SMEs, which, the report says, is a cost of 30% of the taxes they pay.

    The suggestions would also make it easier for governments to administer and collect taxes, contributing to reduced tax evasion and avoidance and mobilising more resources for states to invest elsewhere.

    Tax simplification

    The report urges the Commission to establish an EU Tax Data Hub to improve the automatic exchange of tax information and reduce administrative burden. This would also help identifying and eliminating all instances of duplicate reporting to relieve taxpayers of double reporting obligations. The Hub would also serve as a single access point for tax administrations across the EU.

    In order to mobilise more of Europe’s savings lying on low-interest paying bank accounts, MEPs say that tax declaration procedures for savings and investment accounts should be simplified so that more people would feel encouraged to invest in the EU’s capital markets.

    The adopted text also says that streamlining the use of the Tax Identification Number across member states could help administrative cooperation and reporting. Finally, the Commission is asked to assess and simplify the current VAT framework, the Directive on Administration Cooperation in Tax matters, and the Anti Tax Avoidance Directive.

    MEPs stress that simplification alone will not be enough, as it is also important to invest in the capacity of tax authorities to ensure existing reporting obligations are used to their fullest potential.

    Continue fighting tax fraud, avoidance and evasion

    MEPs underline that any simplification exercise must not undermine fighting tax fraud, avoidance or evasion. They say further tax coordination between member states in tackling tax evasion and avoidance is important to facilitate cross-border economic activity.

    Specifically, the report calls for enhanced collaboration between the European Public Prosecutor’s Office and Eurofisc to strengthen intelligence-sharing, coordinated enforcement efforts and cross-border investigations.

    Tax barriers

    MEPs ask the Commission to survey existing tax related obstacles for the single market and present an action plan to tackle them. Particularly, they invite the Commission to assess the benefits and drawbacks of a single set of EU-wide rules for innovative companies (the so-called 28th regime), which would also provide a single set of tax laws.

    Finally, MEPs call for measures to deal with the tax issues facing trans-frontier workers and digital nomads, as well simplifying the R&D tax incentive schemes.

    Quote of the rapporteur

    “This Report is calling for a simpler, more transparent and predictable EU tax framework that reduces complexity, administrative burden and increases our competiveness. With rising economic pressures and global competition, a simpler tax framework is vital. The report urges simplification, clearer rules, removal of inefficiencies, while upholding standards against tax evasion and aggressive tax planning. To boost competiveness, we call for thorough impact assessments, greater use of digital tools to reduce compliance costs, standardised templates, improved coordination among Member States, and revision of unnecessary rules that burden especially SMEs. A fair and business-friendly system is crucial for SMEs, which are the backbone of the European economy and essential for growth across Member States, especially in smaller economies, like my country Cyprus. This will help ensure a competitive, resilient, and inclusive Single Market for all.”

    Background

    Although not part of an official legislative procedure, this “own initiative report” provides political signalling regarding the EP’s political priorities in anticipation of legislation which would soon be proposed by the Commission. In this case, a legislative proposal on tax simplification is expected in early 2026.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – A simpler tax architecture to benefit EU firms and citizens

    Source: European Parliament 3

    MEPs on Tuesday adopted suggestions for reforms to the tax architecture to boost competitiveness while continuing to address tax avoidance and evasion.

    The report, drafted by Michalis Hadjipantela (EPP, CY), was adopted in the Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee by 46 votes in favour, 2 votes against and 11 abstentions. It will feed into the ongoing legislative work on legislative simplification, more particularly a dedicated Commission proposal expected in early 2026.

    The report presents a host of ideas for simplifying tax compliance and eliminating administrative hurdles in the internal market. This would reduce the financial cost of compliance – notably for SMEs, which, the report says, is a cost of 30% of the taxes they pay.

    The suggestions would also make it easier for governments to administer and collect taxes, contributing to reduced tax evasion and avoidance and mobilising more resources for states to invest elsewhere.

    Tax simplification

    The report urges the Commission to establish an EU Tax Data Hub to improve the automatic exchange of tax information and reduce administrative burden. This would also help identifying and eliminating all instances of duplicate reporting to relieve taxpayers of double reporting obligations. The Hub would also serve as a single access point for tax administrations across the EU.

    In order to mobilise more of Europe’s savings lying on low-interest paying bank accounts, MEPs say that tax declaration procedures for savings and investment accounts should be simplified so that more people would feel encouraged to invest in the EU’s capital markets.

    The adopted text also says that streamlining the use of the Tax Identification Number across member states could help administrative cooperation and reporting. Finally, the Commission is asked to assess and simplify the current VAT framework, the Directive on Administration Cooperation in Tax matters, and the Anti Tax Avoidance Directive.

    MEPs stress that simplification alone will not be enough, as it is also important to invest in the capacity of tax authorities to ensure existing reporting obligations are used to their fullest potential.

    Continue fighting tax fraud, avoidance and evasion

    MEPs underline that any simplification exercise must not undermine fighting tax fraud, avoidance or evasion. They say further tax coordination between member states in tackling tax evasion and avoidance is important to facilitate cross-border economic activity.

    Specifically, the report calls for enhanced collaboration between the European Public Prosecutor’s Office and Eurofisc to strengthen intelligence-sharing, coordinated enforcement efforts and cross-border investigations.

    Tax barriers

    MEPs ask the Commission to survey existing tax related obstacles for the single market and present an action plan to tackle them. Particularly, they invite the Commission to assess the benefits and drawbacks of a single set of EU-wide rules for innovative companies (the so-called 28th regime), which would also provide a single set of tax laws.

    Finally, MEPs call for measures to deal with the tax issues facing trans-frontier workers and digital nomads, as well simplifying the R&D tax incentive schemes.

    Quote of the rapporteur

    “This Report is calling for a simpler, more transparent and predictable EU tax framework that reduces complexity, administrative burden and increases our competiveness. With rising economic pressures and global competition, a simpler tax framework is vital. The report urges simplification, clearer rules, removal of inefficiencies, while upholding standards against tax evasion and aggressive tax planning. To boost competiveness, we call for thorough impact assessments, greater use of digital tools to reduce compliance costs, standardised templates, improved coordination among Member States, and revision of unnecessary rules that burden especially SMEs. A fair and business-friendly system is crucial for SMEs, which are the backbone of the European economy and essential for growth across Member States, especially in smaller economies, like my country Cyprus. This will help ensure a competitive, resilient, and inclusive Single Market for all.”

    Background

    Although not part of an official legislative procedure, this “own initiative report” provides political signalling regarding the EP’s political priorities in anticipation of legislation which would soon be proposed by the Commission. In this case, a legislative proposal on tax simplification is expected in early 2026.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – A simpler tax architecture to benefit EU firms and citizens

    Source: European Parliament 3

    MEPs on Tuesday adopted suggestions for reforms to the tax architecture to boost competitiveness while continuing to address tax avoidance and evasion.

    The report, drafted by Michalis Hadjipantela (EPP, CY), was adopted in the Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee by 46 votes in favour, 2 votes against and 11 abstentions. It will feed into the ongoing legislative work on legislative simplification, more particularly a dedicated Commission proposal expected in early 2026.

    The report presents a host of ideas for simplifying tax compliance and eliminating administrative hurdles in the internal market. This would reduce the financial cost of compliance – notably for SMEs, which, the report says, is a cost of 30% of the taxes they pay.

    The suggestions would also make it easier for governments to administer and collect taxes, contributing to reduced tax evasion and avoidance and mobilising more resources for states to invest elsewhere.

    Tax simplification

    The report urges the Commission to establish an EU Tax Data Hub to improve the automatic exchange of tax information and reduce administrative burden. This would also help identifying and eliminating all instances of duplicate reporting to relieve taxpayers of double reporting obligations. The Hub would also serve as a single access point for tax administrations across the EU.

    In order to mobilise more of Europe’s savings lying on low-interest paying bank accounts, MEPs say that tax declaration procedures for savings and investment accounts should be simplified so that more people would feel encouraged to invest in the EU’s capital markets.

    The adopted text also says that streamlining the use of the Tax Identification Number across member states could help administrative cooperation and reporting. Finally, the Commission is asked to assess and simplify the current VAT framework, the Directive on Administration Cooperation in Tax matters, and the Anti Tax Avoidance Directive.

    MEPs stress that simplification alone will not be enough, as it is also important to invest in the capacity of tax authorities to ensure existing reporting obligations are used to their fullest potential.

    Continue fighting tax fraud, avoidance and evasion

    MEPs underline that any simplification exercise must not undermine fighting tax fraud, avoidance or evasion. They say further tax coordination between member states in tackling tax evasion and avoidance is important to facilitate cross-border economic activity.

    Specifically, the report calls for enhanced collaboration between the European Public Prosecutor’s Office and Eurofisc to strengthen intelligence-sharing, coordinated enforcement efforts and cross-border investigations.

    Tax barriers

    MEPs ask the Commission to survey existing tax related obstacles for the single market and present an action plan to tackle them. Particularly, they invite the Commission to assess the benefits and drawbacks of a single set of EU-wide rules for innovative companies (the so-called 28th regime), which would also provide a single set of tax laws.

    Finally, MEPs call for measures to deal with the tax issues facing trans-frontier workers and digital nomads, as well simplifying the R&D tax incentive schemes.

    Quote of the rapporteur

    “This Report is calling for a simpler, more transparent and predictable EU tax framework that reduces complexity, administrative burden and increases our competiveness. With rising economic pressures and global competition, a simpler tax framework is vital. The report urges simplification, clearer rules, removal of inefficiencies, while upholding standards against tax evasion and aggressive tax planning. To boost competiveness, we call for thorough impact assessments, greater use of digital tools to reduce compliance costs, standardised templates, improved coordination among Member States, and revision of unnecessary rules that burden especially SMEs. A fair and business-friendly system is crucial for SMEs, which are the backbone of the European economy and essential for growth across Member States, especially in smaller economies, like my country Cyprus. This will help ensure a competitive, resilient, and inclusive Single Market for all.”

    Background

    Although not part of an official legislative procedure, this “own initiative report” provides political signalling regarding the EP’s political priorities in anticipation of legislation which would soon be proposed by the Commission. In this case, a legislative proposal on tax simplification is expected in early 2026.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan’s Ag in Motion Goes Global

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on July 15, 2025

    Western Canada’s largest outdoor farm expo demonstrates how Saskatchewan provides food security for the world. 

    Today, Saskatchewan welcomes visitors from across Canada and around the world to learn about the latest advancements in agriculture technology and equipment at Ag in Motion which runs from July 15 to 17. 

    “Saskatchewan has much to offer the world and we are pleased to tell our story to so many prospective partners at this year’s event,” Trade and Export Development Minister Warren Kaeding said. “Ag in Motion invites industry leaders, experts and stakeholders from across Canada and beyond, and we anticipate this event continuing to grow and attract larger crowds each year. This is the perfect place to show people the talent, innovation and expertise found in our province.”

    The province is welcoming delegations from 16 countries, including Australia, Armenia, India, Ireland, Mongolia, Netherlands, Poland, United States and United Arab Emirates to this year’s event. 

    “Ag in Motion brings farmers and industry experts together to share, connect and collaborate for a better future,” Agriculture Minister Daryl Harrison said. “We are proud of the agriculture industry in our province and their ability to supply the rest of the world with sustainably-produced, high quality products. What is learned at Ag in Motion this year will undoubtedly shape the farms of tomorrow.”

    Founded in 2015, Ag in Motion takes place every July in Langham, Saskatchewan. It is anticipated that more than 30,000 attendees and 550 exhibitors from around the world will be in attendance. 

    “Agriculture represents the largest portion of the Saskatchewan economy. Ag in Motion is a tradeshow and demonstration event that features world-leading technology to improve the industry and its dryland farming practices,” Ag in Motion Show Director Rob O’Connor said. “This region of North America is a hotbed for innovation, farmers, companies and delegates from around the world to gather at Ag in Motion for three days to discover what is new, share information and see prototypes and concepts coming down the pipeline.”

    The Government of Saskatchewan remains focused on strengthening international relationships to diversify markets and increase exports. This is supported through the province’s investment attraction efforts and the network of nine international offices that offer personalized support to link businesses with opportunities to invest in the province.

    In 2007, the value of Saskatchewan exports was $19.8 billion, which has since climbed to nearly $50 billion on average over the past three years. Of this, the province exported $18.5 billion worth of Saskatchewan food products and reached 137 countries in 2024 alone. These exports are vital to providing food security the world needs. 

    To learn more, visit InvestSK.ca. 

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Hongli Group Inc. – Nasdaq Minimum Bid Price Non-Compliance

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WEIFANG, CHINA, July 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hongli Group Inc. (the “Company”) (Nasdaq: HLP) today announced that on July 10, 2025, it received a deficiency letter (the “Notice”) from the Nasdaq Listing Qualifications Department (the “Staff”) of The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”). The Notice informed the Company that, based upon the closing bid price of the Company’s ordinary shares (“Ordinary Shares”) over the 30 consecutive business day period between May 27, 2025 and July 9, 2025, the Company is not in compliance with the requirement to maintain a minimum bid price of $1.00 per share of its Ordinary Shares for continued listing on The Nasdaq Capital Market, as set forth in Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(a)(2) (the “Minimum Bid Price Requirement”).

    The Notice has no immediate effect on the continued listing status of the Ordinary Shares on The Nasdaq Capital Market. The Company has been provided a compliance period of 180 calendar days from the date of the Notice, or until January 6, 2026, to regain compliance pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5810(c)(3)(A). If at any time before January 6, 2026, the closing bid price of the Ordinary Shares reaches or exceeds $1.00 per share for a minimum of 10 consecutive business days, the Staff will provide written notification that the Company has achieved compliance with the Minimum Bid Price Requirement, and the matter would be resolved. If the Company chooses to implement a reverse stock split, it must complete the split no later than ten business days prior to January 6, 2026, in order to regain compliance. If the Company does not regain compliance with the Minimum Bid Price Requirement during the initial 180 calendar day period, the Company may be eligible for additional time for compliance.

    To qualify, the Company will be required to meet the continued listing requirement for market value of publicly held shares and all other initial listing standards for The Nasdaq Capital Market, with the exception of the bid price requirement, and will need to provide written notice of its intention to cure the deficiency during the second compliance period, by effecting a reverse stock split, if necessary. If the Company meets these requirements, Nasdaq will inform the Company that it has been granted an additional 180 calendar days. However, if it appears to Staff that the Company will not be able to cure the deficiency, or if the Company is otherwise not eligible, Nasdaq will provide notice that its securities will be subject to delisting

    The Company intends to actively monitor the closing bid price of the Ordinary Shares and will evaluate available options to regain compliance with the Minimum Bid Price Requirement. However, there can be no assurance that the Company will regain compliance during the initial 180-day compliance period, secure a second compliance period or maintain compliance with the other Nasdaq Listing Rules.

    About Hongli Group Inc

    Hongli Group Inc. is a Cayman Islands holding company, and through a series of contractual arrangements, consolidates the financial results of Shandong Hongli Special Section Tube Co., Ltd. and its subsidiaries (collectively, “Hongli Operating Group”). Hongli Operating Group is one of the leading cold roll formed steel profile manufacturers with operating subsidiaries in China. The Hongli Operating Group designs, customizes and manufactures cold roll formed steel profiles for machineries and equipment in a variety of sectors, including but not limited to mining and excavation, construction, agriculture and transportation. The Hongli Operating Group, with over 20 years of operating history, has developed customers in more than 30 major cities in China as well as a global network including South Korea, Japan, U.S. and Sweden.  Hongli Operating Group currently has 11 cold roll forming production lines and produces a variety of distinct profile products in a broad range of materials, sizes and shapes.

    Forward-Looking Statement

    Forward-looking statements include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements that are other than statements of historical facts. When the Company uses words such as “may,” “will,” “intend,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “project,” “estimate,” “continue” or similar expressions that do not relate solely to historical matters, it is making forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations discussed in the forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks, including, but not limited to, the following: the Company’s ability to achieve its goals and strategies, the Company’s future business development and plans for future business development, including its financial conditions and results of operations, product and service demand and acceptance, reputation and brand, the impact of competition and pricing, changes in technology, government regulations, import and export restrictions, fluctuations in general economic and business conditions, the Company’s ability to comply with Nasdaq continued listing standards and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing and other risks contained in reports filed by the Company with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). For these reasons, among others, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements in this press release. Additional factors are discussed in the Company’s filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof.

    For more information, please contact:

    Hongli Group Inc.

    Ms. Jian Liu
    Email: zongjingban@hongli-profile.com
    Mobile: +86-18753635666

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Poland – the hottest offshore market in Europe! The future of energy at the largest event in Central and Eastern Europe – Offshore Wind Poland 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WARSAW, Poland, July 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Poland is entering the operational phase of offshore development – the first turbines are already standing in the Baltic Sea, and by 2026, electricity from offshore sources will begin to power Polish homes. This is a turning point – Poland is rapidly becoming one of the most promising markets in Europe in terms of investment, partnerships and innovation. Now is the best time to invest and build a position in Poland – this will be the main theme of the Offshore Wind Poland 2025 Conference organized by Polish Wind Energy Association.

    “The investment campaign in the maritime sector is unrivalled among other investments currently underway in Poland. It will generate capital expenditure of PLN 300 billion by 2040. This is the largest energy transition project in Polish history, demonstrating Poland’s ambition and courage in its pursuit of modernity. Ambitious investment plans and growing industrial potential give our country a real chance to become one of the leaders of the European energy transition. The upcoming event is the best time to prepare for this change and strengthen your position in the strategic market of the future,” says Janusz Gajowiecki, President of the Polish Wind Energy Association.

    On 18-19 November 2025, politicians, experts, scientists and the biggest players in the wind and renewable energy sectors will meet in Warsaw. For years, the event has been a strategic platform for dialogue on Poland’s responsibility for EU security, energy solidarity and active participation in shaping European policy.

    The focus will be on topics related to the current status of the first and second phase projects, preparations for upcoming auctions, and the development of a national industrial strategy and local supply chains. There will also be discussions on the importance of offshore wind in the context of strengthening the energy security and independence of Poland and Europe.

    The planned workshops will place particular emphasis on practical aspects. This is also an opportunity to establish cooperation with key market players. Information:
    http://www.konferencjaowp.pl/

    PWEA is the largest Polish organisation promoting wind energy in Poland. It brings together over 200 companies – the largest energy giants in the wind energy market: investors, developers, turbine manufacturers and the supply chain.

    Source: PWEA

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/cb3d2fde-0d9c-46bb-8b8d-4b8e54b00d90

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Talkdesk expands global network of regional cloud deployments with new UK Regional Cloud

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALO ALTO, Calif. and LONDON, July 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Talkdesk®, Inc. today announced its new UK Regional Cloud, a significant addition to its expanding global network of regional cloud deployments, enabling United Kingdom (U.K.) customers to host their Talkdesk platform within the region. The company will showcase its new regional cloud as part of its participation at the NEXT Customer Experience Summit in Manchester, U.K.

    Deploying the Talkdesk platform in the U.K. enables businesses in industries such as banking, retail, healthcare, utilities, and travel and hospitality to comply with their region-specific data privacy requirements. In addition to maintaining data compliance, the Talkdesk UK Regional Cloud enhances voice quality by hosting the platform closer to customers’ on-premises systems and end users. Ultimately, this results in an improved customer experience (CX).

    “The launch of our UK Regional Cloud is a pivotal moment for Talkdesk and for our customers across the United Kingdom,” said Tiago Paiva, chief executive officer and founder of Talkdesk. “This investment reinforces our deep commitment to the U.K. market and our global strategy to provide secure, compliant, and high-performing cloud solutions wherever our customers operate. By addressing critical data residency needs and enhancing voice quality, we are not only unlocking new opportunities for businesses in regulated industries but also ensuring they can deliver exceptional, AI-powered customer experiences with confidence.”

    Talkdesk continues to increase investments across local talent, operations, and partnerships to support U.K. customers like Farfetch, Fortem, Motorway, Wealthify Limited, Travelopia, and Canon.

    This launch is a key component of Talkdesk’s broader strategy to expand regional cloud availability globally, strengthening its value proposition for customers operating in highly regulated industries and regions with stringent data residency requirements. In February 2025, the company added the Australia Regional Cloud to its portfolio.

    About Talkdesk

    Talkdesk® is leading a new era in customer experience with Customer Experience Automation (CXA)—a new category and platform designed to automate the full complexity of modern customer journeys. CXA replaces fragmented, human-coordinated workflows with autonomous, multi-agent AI orchestration that delivers intelligent, scalable, and outcome-focused service across the entire CX lifecycle.

    At the core of CXA is the Talkdesk Data Cloud, which turns transcripts, call recordings, case notes, and customer records from across CRMs and systems of record into real-time, actionable knowledge. This enables AI agents to operate with full context, collaborating seamlessly to resolve complex customer problems with speed, precision, and adaptability.

    Talkdesk CXA supports both cross-industry workflows and industry-specialized use cases in sectors like healthcare, financial services, retail, utilities, travel, and government. With prebuilt AI agents, a virtuous automation cycle (Discover, Build, Orchestrate, Measure), and rapid time-to-value, Talkdesk helps enterprises modernize customer experience without the need for a full rip-and-replace.

    Trusted by global brands and recognized for continuous innovation, Talkdesk empowers organizations to grow revenue, reduce costs, and transform service delivery through coordinated, AI-driven automation. Companies that love their customers use Talkdesk.

    Talkdesk is a registered trademark of Talkdesk, Inc. All product and company names are trademarks™ or registered® trademarks of their respective holders. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by them.

    Media Contact:

    Talkdesk Public Relations

    pr@talkdesk.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: UNESCO – Inscription of the megaliths of Carnac and of the shores of Morbihan on UNESCO’s World Heritage List (12 July 2025)

    Source: Republic of France in English
    The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

    France welcomes today’s inscription of the megaliths of Carnac and of the shores of Morbihan on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

    As a Site of Exceptional Value, the megaliths of Carnac and of the shores of Morbihan are a unique ensemble of vestiges of megalithic civilizations, integrated into a protected natural landscape, testifying to an age-old dialogue between man and his environment.

    This heritage success is the result of long-standing cooperation between local elected representatives and tourism officials, the Ministry for Culture and the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.

    It is the 54th French property inscribed by UNESCO since 1979, testifying to the diversity and richness of the natural and cultural properties contained in our history and regions.

    France comes fourth today in the global ranking of countries with the largest number of properties inscribed on the World Heritage List.

    The diplomatic efforts led by France in terms of multilateral cooperation are bringing lasting, tangible benefits for the development of our territories, in terms of their international reputation and jobs in the culture and tourism sectors.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor launches new £12m Green Roots Fund to boost capital’s green and blue spaces

    Source: Mayor of London

    • Mayor launches new fund at the start of London Climate Action Week – the largest city-wide climate event in Europe
    • London will stage more than 700 events across the week to accelerate global climate action, showcasing how London is a global climate leader
    • More than 45,000 people to come to London to take part in events
    • Sadiq urges community groups, boroughs and stakeholders to apply for up to £500,000 – to green neighbourhoods, rewild communities and clean local rivers

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, is starting London Climate Action Week with the launch of a new Green Roots Fund, which will invest more than £12 million to make neighbourhoods across the capital greener, healthier and more climate resilient.

    The new fund, which sees Sadiq deliver on his 2024 Election Manifesto pledge, will support the creation and improvement of London’s green and blue spaces, such as parks, community gardens, wetlands and rivers. This includes projects that will restore habitats for nature to thrive and could reintroduce lost species.

    Research shows that those from Black, Asian or minority ethnic communities are more than twice as likely to live in an area deprived of green space [1], while more than one in five households in London have no access to a garden. [2] The new fund will tackle this social injustice, empowering communities with the opportunity to increase their access to green and blue spaces.

    The new £12 million fund will award grants ranging from £10,000 to £500,000 over the next three years to community groups, boroughs and stakeholders to pay for trees, wildflower meadows, parklets and waterway improvements.

    The launch comes at the start of London Climate Action Week, which is taking place this week (21-29 June) and is the largest city-wide climate event in Europe.

    Now in its seventh year, London Climate Action Week hosts more than 700 in-person and virtual events (double the number of events from last year) and attracts more than 45,000 people to the capital. It mobilises London’s unparalleled array of organisations committed to accelerating global climate action, showcasing how London is a global climate leader.

    Sadiq has led the way and after he launched the world’s first 24-hour Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and expanded it to cover the whole capital in 2023, ULEZ is now the largest clean air zone in the world. It covers every borough of London, helping the capital’s almost ten million residents breathe cleaner air. It has been crucial to protect the health of Londoners, support children’s lung growth, and reduce the risk of people developing asthma, lung cancer and a host of other health issues related to air pollution. [3]

    City Hall is involved in a number of events for London Climate Action Week. This includes: 

    1. A seeds giveaway, today (23 June) to encourage Londoners to create habitats and food sources to benefit nature. A total of 12,000 seed packets will be handed out by volunteers at 12 stations in areas that have less access to green space.*
    2. A week of discussions at Goals House which will feature the Mayor and explore topics including sustainable cities, design and creativity and the impact of businesses on biodiversity and the loss of nature.
    3. A Climate Innovation Forum in Central London that will see the Mayor discuss pioneering green initiatives with international leaders across government and business.
    4. The inaugural London Climate Action Week Youth Summit at ZSL, which will bring together over 150 young changemakers to explore how young Londoners can take climate and nature action in the city

    Since he took office in 2016, the Mayor has transformed London’s natural spaces, improving and creating over 900 hectares of green space – equivalent to more than 2,000 football pitches. He has restored 3.7km of river, creating habitat for wildlife to flourish.

    Through his Grow Back Greener Fund, the Mayor has already awarded over £4 million to 135 community-led projects, supporting Londoners to create and improve over 30 hectares of green space (1,140 tennis courts) and plant over 25,000 trees. [4]

    Since taking office in 2016, Sadiq’s initiatives have led to the planting of over 600,000 trees across London (including two new woodlands), totalling 85 hectares of tree-filled green spaces for everyone to enjoy. [5]

    In addition, the Mayor has invested over £2.5 million since 2021 through his Rewild London Fund, into projects that have supported the restoration and rewilding of London’s most valuable places for nature. [6]

    Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “I am delighted to launch my new Green Roots Fund to deliver spaces across our capital that are greener, healthier and more climate resilient.

    “I want to encourage all community groups to get involved in helping to transform our neighbourhoods and ensure that all Londoners can benefit from nature.

    “I am thrilled to be announcing this new investment during London Climate Action Week as our capital delivers the largest city-wide climate event in Europe.

    “The benefits of nature should be for everyone and I am committed to making this a reality for all Londoners, as we continue to build a greener and fairer London for everyone.”

    Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy, Mete Coban, said: “London Climate Action Week provides a platform to showcase our capital as a global climate leader.  

    “It is fantastic Sadiq is delivering on his Manifesto pledge this week to launch London’s Green Roots Fund and kickstart a series of over 700 events across our capital over the coming days.

    “I urge Londoners to get involved in the many in person and virtual events across the coming days as the Mayor and I work to deliver more natural spaces in our city that are accessible to all.”

    London Climate Action Week Founder and Chair Nick Mabey said: “London Climate Action Week 2025 is more than double the size of last year and attracting even greater international participation.

    “This shows the depth of London’s climate solutions sector whether in finance, clean tech or fashion and the enthusiasm of Londoners to be part of climate action.

    “This energy across the whole of society shows how divorced the current elite political discussion on net zero is from economic and grassroots reality.”

    Friends of Mostyn Garden Project / Muslim Women of Merton Co-ordinator Neaz Ahmed said: “The Mayor’s Grow Back Greener Fund enabled us to tackle social injustice and empower communities with the opportunity to increase their access to green and blue spaces.

    “We worked with volunteer women from the local community to make a piece of derelict land useable and a focus for the community,  including the Tranquil Corner where we meet in peace and tranquillity. It has now attracted further funds to clear up and establish seating and paths.”

    London Wildlife Trust Director of Nature Recovery, Sam Davenport, said: “We’re in the midst of an ecological emergency, and now more than ever, nature needs all of us.

    “As proud partners of the Mayor’s Rewild London Fund, we’ve seen the inspiring results that come from empowering London’s communities to act for wildlife.

    “This renewed commitment to nature recovery from the Mayor is a welcome next step toward a greener, wilder, and more resilient London.”

    National Park City Foundation and London National Park City Chair Navdeep Deol said: “With the support of the Mayor’s team we have been able to deliver vital and timely microgrants to a number of our National Park City Ranger projects, so that they can focus on their important work to make London greener, wilder and healthier and support communities across the capital.

    “The programme strengthens capacity and resilience within the voluntary sector in a way that is both equitable and scalable without the complexity of traditional funding models. The Green Roots Fund creates new opportunities to kick-start and grow new community led and grassroots action right across London.” 

    Wildlife Gardeners of Haggerston Chair, Gideon Corby, said: “Receiving the Mayor of London’s Grow Back Greener and Rewild London funding allowed us to do so much work on Hackney Marshes and along the Old Lea River.

    “We have worked hard to increase the chances for wildlife to thrive; removing problematic plants and reintroducing reedbeds, returning the natural complexity of flow to the river and building refugia to allow wood mice, field vole and shrew populations.

    “GLA funding gave us local people the chance, and privilege, to do work we are immensely proud of and we’d do it all again!”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: How women are trapped in years of homelessness that often begin in their teens

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Mary Vaccaro, Lecturer in Social Work, McMaster University

    Many women without children in their care who become homeless in Canada remain homeless for many years. Yet their experiences remain misunderstood and largely ignored because of the ways we define and measure homelessness in Canada.

    I have worked in the women’s emergency shelter system in Hamilton, Ont., since 2012. I have met many women who have been navigating homelessness for years — with no permanent solution to their housing crisis. For my PhD in social work, I interviewed 21 women who had experienced homelessness for a year or longer in Hamilton. I asked them about their experiences, and through art-based activities, about their ideas for housing and support.

    What I learned in the interviews, combined with existing research, highlights a hidden crisis. Within our current system resides a profound human cost that manages, instead of resolves, homelessness.

    Many women who experience homelessness do so for far longer than the federal government’s definition of chronic homelessness, which is six consecutive months or 18 months over three years. Research from the United Kingdom that focuses on long-term and unresolved homelessness for women found that the ways women experience homelessness is to “go around in circles” without having their housing or support needs met.

    Among the women I spoke with, more than half had been experiencing homelessness for 10 years or longer. Six of the the women said they have never had a safe place of their own to live for the entirety of their adult lives.

    All of the women who participated in this project accessed the services offered by the homeless serving sector, including shelters and outreach workers, designed to resolve their homelessness. Yet none of these women were able to have their housing and support needs met.

    This means their experience of homelessness has persisted for years, and even decades.

    Homelessness often starts in their teens

    More than half of the participants I spoke with first experienced homelessness before they turned 18. Their primary route into youth homelessness was gender-based violence. They ran away from home when they were teenaged girls to escape violence and became caught in a cycle of events that include: hospitalization, incarceration, staying in youth shelters, living in group homes and unsafe places.

    The Pan-Canadian Women’s Housing and Homelessness Survey, as well as a study on Toronto youth, echo what the women I spoke with told me. Studies from the United States also confirm similar patterns — homelessness begins early in life for a majority of women, and is often followed by a chronic, chaotic churn of precarious housing and homelessness situations.

    The women in my study described a frustrating and exhausting cycle of going among institutions such as hospitals, jails, emergency shelters, drop-in programs and transitional housing programs. They had all spent periods of time living outdoors, in encampments, in motels, with unsafe people and in other precarious and temporary housing arrangements. This phenomena is well-documented in existing Canadian research.

    Better definitions, better data

    The Canadian government defines those who have been homeless and using shelters for more than 180 days a year as experiencing “acute chronicity.”

    Another term used by the federal government for individuals who have accessed shelters at least once in each of the last three years is “prolonged instability.”

    People who meet one or both of these criteria are considered to have the highest housing needs in the country.

    According to recent federal data, women and gender-diverse people across Canada experience slightly higher rates of acute chronicity than men (13.4 per cent for men, 15.4 per cent for women, and 13.9 per cent for gender-diverse people). But the real numbers for women are likely much higher due to under-reporting.

    Research shows women remain invisible to official systems during periods of homelessness. For example, the available data relies solely on information about emergency shelter usage. It does not capture experiences of homelessness that occur outside of the shelter system.

    Women are less likely than their male counterparts to access shelters and other formal supports. Instead, they rely on precarious, unsafe and temporary housing arrangements to navigate homelessness.

    In Canada, there are also fewer emergency women-specific shelter beds than for men

    Rethinking responses to long-term homelessness

    For the women I spoke with, the official 180 days or three years that makes someone officially chronically homeless in Canada does not even begin to describe the length and complexity of their experiences of homelessness.

    They described wanting to live in supportive, gender-specific housing programs that foster community and care. Highly supportive housing typically integrates health and social services and a range of other support services. This type of integrated housing does exist across Canada — examples are the Block Line Supportive Housing Program operated by YWCA Kitchener-Waterloo and the Women’s Building (Alpha House) in Calgary — but there is not enough of it.

    The current measurements from the government of Canada fall short of capturing the complexity of the homeless experience for many Canadian women.

    Government officials must therefore not only rethink their definitions of those in the most housing need, they must develop responsive housing solutions to meet the needs of women who have been homeless for many years.

    Mary Vaccaro consults for YWCA Hamilton. She receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    – ref. How women are trapped in years of homelessness that often begin in their teens – https://theconversation.com/how-women-are-trapped-in-years-of-homelessness-that-often-begin-in-their-teens-259239

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SA to hold a ‘critical‘ meeting with Formula 1 in two weeks

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has revealed that a significant meeting is set to take place in the next two weeks with representatives from Formula 1 (F1). 

    The Kyalami Grand Prix has been granted permission to modify its design, paving the way for a potential return of F1 to the country.

    “Many laughed when I uttered the words ‘Formula 1 must come back to South Africa’. One man in particular, who didn’t laugh was Toby Venter, the owner of the Kyalami racetrack. 

    “When I told him that government doesn’t have the money to host Formula 1 because of other more urgent priorities and we would not be able to help him pay for the track to reach F1 standards, he looked me in the eye and said he would see it [as] his patriotic duty to do just that.

    “We have had multiple meetings with the management of F1, with a crucial one happening in the next two weeks.“

    The Minister was speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, presenting a R6.3 billion budget aimed at unlocking local talent in both sports and the arts and culture.

    “To those who say the country can’t afford to host the F1, I’m saying the country can’t afford not to… We hosted the best FIFA World Cup. We put our country on the map for big events and should not turn back now.” 

    According to McKenzie, what will be different this time is that government will not be expected to pay.

    Meanwhile, he announced that companies like MTN, MultiChoice, Heineken, and many others have expressed their support for this initiative.

    “They will be present with us in the meeting with Formula 1 at the end of the month.” 

    However, he stressed that those who believe that F1 is not important should consider the countries that are holding onto their F1 spots on the calendar.

    “They see the value in it, and it can’t be called a world championship if it misses an entire continent, sub-Saharan Africa in particular.” 

    He also expressed gratitude to everyone who joined the mission to promote the sport of spinning, including Red Bull and Cell C.

    “People were laughing when we said we’re going to make spinning big, but already this sport has left the townships and now Sam Sam is wowing the likes of Max Verstappen with his skills in Austria.”

    Samkeliso Thubane, also known as Sam Sam, is a prominent South African spinning motorsport athlete sponsored by Red Bull. 

    He is recognised as the world’s first official Red Bull spinning athlete and has gained international acclaim for his skills, performing at the reopening of Red Bull Hangar-7 in Austria.

    LIV Golf

    The country is exploring the potential of bringing a LIV Golf tournament, a professional men’s golf tour, to South Africa as early as next year.  

    “Golf has not broken through to the masses and we hope to achieve that with LIV Golf. It’s not only golf, but also culture,” McKenzie said.

    The Minister said he hoped to eclipse Australia’s attendance of more than 100 000 at a single event over three days.

    Olympics

    Meanwhile, he said the draft document has been developed, and plans are being finalised to send as many athletes as possible to the next Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028.

    The Minister said last year, they travelled to Olympic House in Switzerland to express the country’s interest in hosting the Summer Olympic Games in South Africa in 2036.

    VAR

    McKenzie announced that they are finalising the funding process for video assistant refereeing (VAR) to ensure fairness in football matches, from the Premier Soccer League to international fixtures — meeting global standards.

    “It is a necessity. We see stadiums vandalised when bad refereeing happens, and the success of teams like Mamelodi Sundowns makes global teams want to play here, but they get second thoughts because we don’t have VAR.“ – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Security: SOUTHERN STAR ’25: 27th Special Operations Wing projects power with partners in Chile

    Source: United States SOUTHERN COMMAND

    SANTIAGO, Chile — From the sunbaked airstrips of Antofagasta to the bustling port of Valparaíso and the icy channels of Punta Arenas, elite troops from six nations dove into SOUTHERN STAR ’25, Latin America’s premier multinational special operations exercise. Designed around a simulated United Nations stabilization mandate, the event brings together special forces from Chile, the United States, Spain, Argentina, Colombia, and Paraguay, with ten additional nations participating as observers.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: How women are trapped in years of homelessness that often begin in their teens

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Mary Vaccaro, Lecturer in Social Work, McMaster University

    Many women without children in their care who become homeless in Canada remain homeless for many years. Yet their experiences remain misunderstood and largely ignored because of the ways we define and measure homelessness in Canada.

    I have worked in the women’s emergency shelter system in Hamilton, Ont., since 2012. I have met many women who have been navigating homelessness for years — with no permanent solution to their housing crisis. For my PhD in social work, I interviewed 21 women who had experienced homelessness for a year or longer in Hamilton. I asked them about their experiences, and through art-based activities, about their ideas for housing and support.

    What I learned in the interviews, combined with existing research, highlights a hidden crisis. Within our current system resides a profound human cost that manages, instead of resolves, homelessness.

    Many women who experience homelessness do so for far longer than the federal government’s definition of chronic homelessness, which is six consecutive months or 18 months over three years. Research from the United Kingdom that focuses on long-term and unresolved homelessness for women found that the ways women experience homelessness is to “go around in circles” without having their housing or support needs met.

    Among the women I spoke with, more than half had been experiencing homelessness for 10 years or longer. Six of the the women said they have never had a safe place of their own to live for the entirety of their adult lives.

    All of the women who participated in this project accessed the services offered by the homeless serving sector, including shelters and outreach workers, designed to resolve their homelessness. Yet none of these women were able to have their housing and support needs met.

    This means their experience of homelessness has persisted for years, and even decades.

    Homelessness often starts in their teens

    More than half of the participants I spoke with first experienced homelessness before they turned 18. Their primary route into youth homelessness was gender-based violence. They ran away from home when they were teenaged girls to escape violence and became caught in a cycle of events that include: hospitalization, incarceration, staying in youth shelters, living in group homes and unsafe places.

    The Pan-Canadian Women’s Housing and Homelessness Survey, as well as a study on Toronto youth, echo what the women I spoke with told me. Studies from the United States also confirm similar patterns — homelessness begins early in life for a majority of women, and is often followed by a chronic, chaotic churn of precarious housing and homelessness situations.

    The women in my study described a frustrating and exhausting cycle of going among institutions such as hospitals, jails, emergency shelters, drop-in programs and transitional housing programs. They had all spent periods of time living outdoors, in encampments, in motels, with unsafe people and in other precarious and temporary housing arrangements. This phenomena is well-documented in existing Canadian research.

    Better definitions, better data

    The Canadian government defines those who have been homeless and using shelters for more than 180 days a year as experiencing “acute chronicity.”

    Another term used by the federal government for individuals who have accessed shelters at least once in each of the last three years is “prolonged instability.”

    People who meet one or both of these criteria are considered to have the highest housing needs in the country.

    According to recent federal data, women and gender-diverse people across Canada experience slightly higher rates of acute chronicity than men (13.4 per cent for men, 15.4 per cent for women, and 13.9 per cent for gender-diverse people). But the real numbers for women are likely much higher due to under-reporting.

    Research shows women remain invisible to official systems during periods of homelessness. For example, the available data relies solely on information about emergency shelter usage. It does not capture experiences of homelessness that occur outside of the shelter system.

    Women are less likely than their male counterparts to access shelters and other formal supports. Instead, they rely on precarious, unsafe and temporary housing arrangements to navigate homelessness.

    In Canada, there are also fewer emergency women-specific shelter beds than for men

    Rethinking responses to long-term homelessness

    For the women I spoke with, the official 180 days or three years that makes someone officially chronically homeless in Canada does not even begin to describe the length and complexity of their experiences of homelessness.

    They described wanting to live in supportive, gender-specific housing programs that foster community and care. Highly supportive housing typically integrates health and social services and a range of other support services. This type of integrated housing does exist across Canada — examples are the Block Line Supportive Housing Program operated by YWCA Kitchener-Waterloo and the Women’s Building (Alpha House) in Calgary — but there is not enough of it.

    The current measurements from the government of Canada fall short of capturing the complexity of the homeless experience for many Canadian women.

    Government officials must therefore not only rethink their definitions of those in the most housing need, they must develop responsive housing solutions to meet the needs of women who have been homeless for many years.

    Mary Vaccaro consults for YWCA Hamilton. She receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    – ref. How women are trapped in years of homelessness that often begin in their teens – https://theconversation.com/how-women-are-trapped-in-years-of-homelessness-that-often-begin-in-their-teens-259239

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor of London issues high pollution alert

    Source: Mayor of London

    City Hall has triggered a ‘high’ air pollution alert in London tomorrow (Saturday 21 June) as sunny and hot weather with temperatures above 30C are forecast, which is expected to create ‘High’ ozone levels as the strong and prolonged heat and sunshine reacts with any present pollution.

    Imperial College London forecasters advised City Hall to issue the alert, with air flow from mainland Europe expected to bring in additional pollutants from urban and industrial sources.

    City Hall issues alerts to Londoners, schools and local boroughs when moderate, high or very high air pollution is forecast. High air pollution alerts are also displayed at public locations across London, including all bus stop countdown signs, as well as on the Underground.

    The Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy, Mete Coban said: “London’s toxic air is responsible for around 4,000 premature deaths in the capital each year, which is why the Mayor has done everything in his power to tackle it, including launching the world’s largest clean air zone.

    “We are urging Londoners to look after themselves in this pollution alert during the hot weather, stop their engines idling, and refrain from burning wood or garden waste – all of which contribute to high levels of pollution. This is particularly important in order to protect those who are most vulnerable as we continue working to build a safer and greener London for all.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: President Meloni meets with the King of Bahrain

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    15 Luglio 2025

    The President of the Council of Ministers, Giorgia Meloni, today received at Palazzo Chigi the King of Bahrain, Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, who is on a private visit to Italy.

    During the meeting, the two leaders discussed the situation in the Middle East, and in particular the joint efforts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza. The discussion also provided President Meloni with the opportunity to offer her congratulations on Bahrain’s election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2026-27 mandate.

    Lastly, the meeting enabled the two leaders to discuss bilateral relations, starting with economic cooperation, also in view of the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Bahrain’s visit to Rome in September and the agreements that will be signed on that occasion.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor encourages greater collaboration between London and Lagos’ multi-billion creative economies as he meets creative leaders in Nigeria

    Source: Mayor of London

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, is today celebrating the impact of London and Lagos’s multi-billion creative economies and the cultural ties between the two capitals.

    The Mayor is highlighting the huge impact of the creative economies and encouraging even greater collaboration as part of his trade mission to Africa, banging the drum for London as a place to invest and strengthening ties with countries across the continent.

    Today, the Mayor will join with leading figures from the city’s art and entertainment businesses to celebrate creative links and forge new partnerships. The Lagos Canvas event has been organised with media powerhouse Mo Abudu and brings together people from across Nigeria’s film industry Nollywood, Afrobeat music scene, fashion and entertainment.

    Lagos Canvas will include a live music performance by Rising Afro-soul talent Konstance, fashion curated by House of Zeta and featuring designers Hertunba and Wannifuga, art curated by Soto Gallery and featuring visual artist Johnson Uwadinma and multimedia artist Obi Nwaegbe, and films curated by EbonyLife Films, including clips by leading film directors Jade Osiberu and Kayode Kasum.

    Later this year a London edition of Lagos Canvas is also being planned with the support of the Lagos State Government to bring together outstanding talent across music, fashion, film and art to celebrate the spirit of Lagos on an international stage.

    Culture is the beating heart of London, defining how the capital is seen around the world and generating more than £63bn for the economy, having significantly surpassed pre-pandemic levels. It also supports one in five jobs in the capital.

    The African continent has had a significant influence on London’s creative industries, including art, fashion and music. Afrobeat is currently one of London’s most popular music genres, and in 2023 Burna Boy became the first artist from the African continent to headline a stadium show in the UK, returning to play there again last year.

    Lagos’s creative industries are also thriving with the capital rated as Africa’s top city for creative economy performance thanks to its incredible music, film, fashion and design scenes. Nigeria’s film industry is renowned with Nollywood the second largest global film industry in terms of production.

    Across Nigeria the creative industry contributes approximately $5.6 billion to the nation’s GDP, with the creative sector the country’s second-largest employer. Nigeria’s Government aims for the country’s creative economy to generate $100 billion by 2030 and Sadiq wants London to create even closer ties and long-term partnerships to help drive our economies, unite communities and inspire young people.

    London and Lagos have globally influential creative sectors and there has been a growing collaboration and cultural exchange between the capitals. This includes the Guest Artists Space (G.A.S.) Foundation and Yinka Shonibare Foundation which were established by artist Yinka Shonibare to provide artistic residences in Lagos and opportunities for collaboration with those in the UK, the South London Gallery which has hosted exhibitions including one celebrating the links between Lagos and Peckham, and the Tiwani Contemporary which has galleries in both cities. In March London hosted the launch of a new Creative Industries Technical Working Group that aims to deepen creative ties between the UK and Nigeria and boost innovation.

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “London and Lagos are two of the most culturally dynamic cities in the world, with our music, film, fashion, design and digital creativity leading the way.

    “I’m proud that across both capitals you can feel the influence of our long-standing and deeply-rooted connection, and as both of our creative industries thrive I want to see even closer collaboration.

    “That’s why I’m delighted to join with the very best of Lagos’s art and entertainment business today. By working together to showcase our creativity, develop new partnerships and learn from each other, we can drive our economies forward, unite our communities and inspire young people.”

    Mo Abudu, CEO, EbonyLife Group, said: “We are truly delighted to be co-hosting this special evening alongside the Mayor of London right here at EbonyLife Place in Lagos. It reflects the growing global recognition of the creative industry as a powerful driver of cultural and economic exchange. With Canvas Lagos, we are building bridges between Lagos and London — two vibrant cities bound by innovation, resilience, and an abundance of creative talent.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: One in three Americans pays for a specialist streaming or subscription service

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CAMBRIDGE, United Kingdom, July 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nearly a third of American subscribers (31%) now pay for at least one specialist subscription — ranging from horror streaming and pet trackers, to diet plans, meditation apps, and more. That’s according to newly released research from Bango (AIM: BGO).

    Beyond streaming: The rise of specialist subscriptions

    According to the Bango study, which surveyed 5000 U.S. subscribers, Americans are looking beyond the go-to streaming platforms and signing up to a huge variety of specialist services.

    1 in 10 now pay for at least one children’s subscription service such as ABCmouse, while 1 in 20 pay for a guided meditation subscription. A further 1 in 20 pay for at least one foreign-language streaming service.

    Broader bundles: America demands more choice

    As consumers embrace a broader range of subscriptions, many are calling for these services to be bundled into the deals offered by their mobile providers, banks, and internet service providers.

    More than half of subscribers (58%) believe today’s bundles should include a wider variety of specialist subscriptions, not just the major streaming platforms. At the same time, subscribers are also looking to build more unique bundles that reflect their own unique interests:

    Top subscription combos

    • 34% of health‑and‑fitness subscribers also pay for a food delivery or meal kit service
    • 26% of students combine language or study apps with international cuisine services such as Hungry Panda
    • 21% of food delivery subscribers also pay for genre‑specific streamers like Shudder
    • 16% of AI tool subscribers pay for a dating upgrade (e.g. Tinder Gold)
    • 14% of gaming subscribers splash out on pet‑care subscriptions such as BorrowMyDoggy

    Commenting on the findings, Giles Tongue, subscription expert at Bango, said, “When deciding whether to take up a bundle or deal, today’s subscribers want more than just streaming, music or retail. The beauty of bundling is that subscribers get to design their own experiences and build a combination that is genuinely useful and meaningful to them.”

    “Today’s subscribers are creating all kinds of weird and wonderful combinations. They’re bundling meditation apps with heavy‑metal playlists and using AI subscriptions to perfect their Tinder ice‑breakers. These quirky combos represent the next stage in the bundle economy, offering a huge commercial opportunity to providers who are willing to team up with other, more specialized players.”

    “Imagine Shudder teaming up with HelloFresh for a ‘Meals & Squeals’ deal. That’s a bundle. Or Duolingo offering Hungry Panda vouchers to language learners. That’s a bundle. With the Digital Vending Machine® (DVM™) from Bango, launching those cross‑category bundles is as easy as flipping a switch.”

    The bundle economy

    Bango predicts that growing consumer demand for specialist streaming and subscription services will fuel a new wave of bundling and a further boom to the growing bundle economy.

    According to additional Bango data, 68% of U.S. consumers are now paying for at least one subscription obtained indirectly, such as through a bundled offer. Meanwhile, 72% of subscription brands report higher customer lifetime value from subscribers acquired via bundles compared to those acquired through direct sign-ups.

    “The bundle economy presents a huge opportunity, but the challenge is in linking all of these services together efficiently,” said Giles Tongue. “Consumers don’t want complexity. They want convenience, choice, and value in one place. The Digital Vending Machine® from Bango already connects hundreds of popular, mainstream, and specialist subscriptions, powering Super Bundling platforms from Verizon, Optus and Telenet. Using the DVM, telcos, banks, retailers, and other providers can offer compelling deals instantly, differentiating their services, while giving customers the variety they crave.”

    Find out about the latest subscription combos here.

    About Bango

    Bango enables content providers to reach more paying customers through global partnerships. Bango revolutionized the monetization of digital content and services, by opening-up online payments to mobile phone users worldwide. Today, the Digital Vending Machine® is driving the rapid growth of the subscription economy, powering choice and control for subscribers.

    The world’s largest content providers, including Amazon, Google and Microsoft trust Bango technology to reach subscribers everywhere.

    Bango, where people subscribe. For more information, visit www.bango.com

    Media contact

    For US enquiries, contact SamsonPR: bango@samsonpr.com
    For all other enquiries, contact Giles Tongue, VP Marketing at Bango: giles@bango.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor heads historic trade mission to Africa to drive trade, investment and cultural links

    Source: Mayor of London

    • Sadiq is first Mayor of London to lead trade mission to Africa
    • Mayor will visit Nigeria, Ghana and South Africa to boost trade and growth and further develop cultural links
    • Mayor to visit four cities in five days – Lagos, Accra, Johannesburg and Cape Town  
    • Trade between UK and Africa worth £50bn
    • The Mayor says that over the next decade there are ‘huge opportunities’ to deepen partnerships between London and African nations.

    Sadiq Khan will this week become the first Mayor of London to lead a trade mission to Africa, banging the drum for the capital as a place to invest and strengthening ties with countries across the continent.

    Sadiq will visit Lagos in Nigeria, Accra in Ghana, and Johannesburg and Cape Town in South Africa – four cities in five days – to boost trade links with London and build on extensive connections between the region and the capital’s growing African diaspora.

    Alongside the visit, the Mayor’s growth agency London & Partners will host a trade delegation of 27 London-based companies that are looking to grow their business and access opportunities in this dynamic and important region of the world.  

    The bilateral trade relationship between Africa and London has shown consistent growth over recent years, despite global challenges. More businesses from London expand into Africa than from any other city globally and the UK stands as one of Africa’s significant trading partners. With trade between the UK and Africa worth £50bn in 2024* and UK exports up six per cent year on year, the Mayor is hoping that his visit will contribute to future economic growth both in London and the cities he visits.

    The visit also helps to celebrate London’s cultural links and history with the African continent. Londoners of African heritage have played, and continue to play, a huge part of life in the capital, from food and music, to art and culture and sport. Nigeria is the eighth most common country of birth for Londoners, with the country among the top 10 fastest growing populations in London, and Ghana in the top 30 fastest growing between 2001 and 2021. Last month London hosted the football Unity Cup, which saw Ghana and Nigeria go head-to-head in a semi-final at Brentford’s stadium. 

    New analysis from Dealroom has ranked Lagos as the world’s top emerging tech hub.** In Lagos, the Mayor will attend a flagship tech event hosted by London and Partners, the growth agency for London, where he will encourage Nigerian tech businesses to invest in London.

     Just last week, Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO) became the first Nigerian banking entity to list all of its shares directly on the London Stock Exchange, highlighting the close economic ties that already exist between London and the African continent.

    Africa’s Creative Vibrancy Index ranks Lagos as the top city for creative economy performance and the Mayor will also host a major culture and creative industries reception to celebrate the status of Lagos and London as cultural and creative industry powerhouses. This will also look to encourage even greater ties between the creative industry ecosystems in both cities – from the arts to music and film.

    Trade between the UK and Ghana stood at around £1.4 billion in 2024. In Accra, the Mayor will deliver a speech on innovation and entrepreneurship to students at the University of Ghana, hosted by Imperial College London. Imperial is the first UK university to have a permanent base solely focused on science and technology in Africa, building on the rapid increase in the number of scientific advancements and breakthroughs by researchers from Imperial working with scientists in Ghana in recent years. He will also launch the British High Commission’s new business campaign that will promote trade between the two cities.

    In Johannesburg, the Mayor will commemorate Mandela Day – an annual international day in honour of Nelson Mandela, celebrated each year on 18 July, Mandela’s birthday. Nelson Mandela made a number of visits to London during his lifetime, including a state visit in 1996 by invitation of Queen Elizabeth II, and speaking in Trafalgar Square in 2005 in support of the Make Poverty History Campaign. His impact on South Africa, the UK and the wider world is celebrated by a statue in Parliament Square, and last year the Mayor provided funding to support the first cultural centre and museum dedicated to the history of the Anti-Apartheid Movement in Britain.

    Finally, the Mayor will visit Cape Town where he will join London businesses from his trade delegation who are seeking new opportunities in Africa. He will attend London & Partners’ London x Cape Town Tech Summit, which will bring together London and South Africa’s dynamic tech sectors, developing opportunities for collaboration between the two cities in driving innovation, attracting investment and scaling transformative technologies. He will also take part in events marking the huge role sport can play in supporting communities, both in London and in Africa.

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “I am delighted to be visiting Africa this week – the first visit of its kind by a Mayor of London – to bang the drum for the capital and further develop the strong ties between our countries.

    “Africa has the world’s fastest growing populations, and is seeing major economic growth across many of its economies. Over the next decade there are huge opportunities to deepen partnerships with London. I will be working tirelessly throughout this visit to drive trade and investment across critical sectors including finance, education, health, tech creative and sustainability.

    “Londoners of African heritage have played, and continue to play, a huge role in making London the greatest city in the world, and this trip is an opportunity to celebrate our shared heritage, history and culture with the African continent – as we build a better and fairer city for everyone.”  

    Laura Citron, CEO of London & Partners, said: “London is one of the best places in the world to build a business. But it doesn’t thrive in isolation. Its strength comes from global connections. Markets like Nigeria, South Africa and Kenya offer real opportunities for growth. These trade missions focus on building strong partnerships between London and some of the most important emerging business hubs in the region. London is home to important African diaspora communities, which are a great strength in our diverse city.”

    Lord Collins of Highbury, UK Minister for Africa said: “Sir Sadiq’s visit marks an exciting moment for the UK’s relationship with countries across Africa, and is a strong demonstration of our commitment to deepening our ties with the continent. 

     

    “Strengthening our trade, investment, and cultural ties is not only vital for shared economic growth, but also for fostering long-term partnerships that are rooted in respect and open up opportunities for all.”

    Dr Lloyd Anderson, the Acting Regional Director for Sub Saharan at the British Council, said: “On behalf of the British Council in Sub Saharan Africa, I am delighted to welcome Mayor Sadiq Khan on his historic trade mission to this vibrant continent. The visit will not only strengthen the bonds between London and Africa, but showcase the immense potential for trade, investment and cultural programmes.

    “Given Africa’s dynamic economies and diverse cultures, there are precedented opportunities for collaborations that celebrate our shared heritage and drive innovation across sectors such as creative industries and education. I look forward to witnessing the fruitful partnerships that will emerge from this mission, enhancing not only economic ties but also the cultural connections that enrich both London and Africa.”

    Jonny Baxter, British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, said: “The Mayor of London’s visit underscores the UK Government’s commitment to strengthening economic and cultural ties with Nigeria. From trade to fintech and fashion, our collaboration is driving innovation and growth.

    “Through the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership, we’re committed to unlocking new opportunities that benefit both our economies, and this visit is a powerful step forward in that journey of inclusive growth.”

    Antony Phillipson, British High Commissioner to South Africa, said: “The Mayor of London’s visit marks a significant moment in deepening the economic ties between South Africa and London, with a focus on trade, innovation, and cultural links. His engagements in Cape Town show the tangible benefits of collaboration to drive inclusive, sustainable growth for both our economies.”

    Orla Browne, Head of Insights at Dealroom, said: “Lagos is the world’s top emerging tech hub in our 2025 ‘Rising Stars’ ranking — and for good reason. Its tech ecosystem has grown 11-fold in enterprise value since 2017 to $15B, produced five unicorns like Flutterwave and OPay, and attracted significant foreign investment. In the context of a low-income national economy, Lagos shows how tech can be a powerful driver of economic growth.”

    Tom Attenborough, Head of International Primary Markets, London Stock Exchange Group, said; “The London Stock Exchange has been a consistent funding partner – both to Governments and to the wider African economy – with more than 90% of the bonds issued by African Sovereigns currently listed on our markets and more than 100 companies from 20 African countries with a market capitalisation of $110bn listed here. London’s capital markets continue to play actively in directing financing to opportunities that support economic development across Africa.”

    Olu Alake, CEO of The Africa Centre, London UK, said: “The Africa Centre warmly welcomes The Mayor of London’s trade mission to Nigeria, Ghana and South Africa as part of his office’s focus on Africa. For over 60 years, we have had the pleasure of fostering meaningful engagements and innovative partnerships between the United Kingdom and the African continent. Mayor Khan’s visit represents a timely and strategic opportunity to deepen economic, cultural and innovation ties with the continent in a spirit of genuine partnership. We stand ready to support all efforts that will advance inclusive growth and mutual prosperity.”

    London-based businesses in Africa as part of London & Partners trade delegation include fintech company Abound who specialise in AI-powered lending.

    Michelle He, Co-Founder and COO of Abound said: “We’re excited to take part in this historic trade mission to Africa. We’ve already partnered with one African unicorn, LemFi, and are excited to continue to grow our presence in what is becoming such an important fintech hub.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: United Kingdom Citizen Extradited to Face Charges in $99 Million Wine Fraud

    Source: US FBI

    Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, James Wellesley was arraigned following his extradition from the United Kingdom (UK), where he was arrested in 2022.  In 2022, Wellesley, along with his co-defendant Stephen Burton, was charged with wire fraud conspiracy, wire fraud, and money laundering conspiracy in connection with a scheme perpetrated through Bordeaux Cellars, a company he and Burton operated.  Wellesley was arraigned today before United States Magistrate Judge Robert M. Levy. Burton was extradited from Morocco in 2023 and is currently pending trial.  Wellesley was ordered detained pending trial. 

    Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; Christopher G. Raia, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), and Ricky J. Patel, Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations, New York (HSI New York) announced Burton’s arraignment. 

    “Today’s arraignment sends a message to all perpetrators of global fraud schemes that my Office will work tirelessly to ensure they answer for crimes committed in the United States,” stated United States Attorney Nocella.  “We will not rest in our efforts to seek justice for victims of fraud.”

    “James Wellesley and his business partner allegedly concocted an elaborate scheme defrauding investors out of millions of dollars to finance their own personal expenses. Their alleged deceit spread across years and continents,” stated FBI New York Assistant Director in Charge Raia.  “Today’s arraignment signals to all criminals that the FBI will practice the same resolve in bringing perpetrators to justice.” 

    “James Wellesley and his co-conspirator are accused of masterminding their nearly $100 million international fraud scheme that exploited the unsuspecting public, including New Yorkers, for their own selfish enrichment. As alleged, the defendants claimed Bordeaux Cellars boasted a high-value wine stockpile and a clientele of ‘high-net-worth wine collectors’ – and in turn profited handsomely – all while they swindled investors out of hundreds of thousands of dollars, if not more,” stated HSI New York Special Agent in Charge Patel.  “Let it be known, regardless of the nature of the transnational criminal scheme, HSI New York, alongside our law enforcement partners, will continue to adapt and evolve to fight global and domestic financial crimes wherever and whenever possible.”

    The indictment alleges that from at least June 2017 and continuing through February of 2019, the defendants posed as executives Bordeaux Cellars.  The defendants solicited investors, including residents of the Eastern District of New York, at, among other places, investor conferences held in the United States and overseas.  The defendants claimed to investors that Bordeaux Cellars brokered loans between investors and high-net-worth wine collectors that would be fully collateralized by high-value collections of wine.  The defendants promised that investors would receive regular interest payments from the borrowers, and that Bordeaux Cellars would keep custody of the wine, securing the loans while the loans were outstanding.  As alleged, these representations were lies, the “high-net-worth wine collectors” did not actually exist, and Bordeaux Cellars did not maintain custody of the wine purportedly securing the loans.  Instead, the defendants used incoming loan proceeds to make fraudulent interest payments to investors and for their own personal expenses, resulting in $99 million dollars’ worth of misdirected funds. 

    The charges in the indictment are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.  If convicted, the defendants face up to 20 years in prison. 

    The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs (OIA) provided significant assistance in securing Wellesley’s arrest and extradition from the UK.  This Office thanks UK authorities for their assistance in this matter.

    The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Business and Securities Fraud Section.  Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin Weintraub is in charge of the prosecution. 

    The Defendants:

    STEPHEN BURTON
    Age: 58
    United Kingdom

    JAMES WELLESLEY
    Age: 56
    United Kingdom

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 22-CR-79 (PKC)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: United Kingdom Citizen Extradited to Face Charges in $99 Million Wine Fraud

    Source: US FBI

    Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, James Wellesley was arraigned following his extradition from the United Kingdom (UK), where he was arrested in 2022.  In 2022, Wellesley, along with his co-defendant Stephen Burton, was charged with wire fraud conspiracy, wire fraud, and money laundering conspiracy in connection with a scheme perpetrated through Bordeaux Cellars, a company he and Burton operated.  Wellesley was arraigned today before United States Magistrate Judge Robert M. Levy. Burton was extradited from Morocco in 2023 and is currently pending trial.  Wellesley was ordered detained pending trial. 

    Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; Christopher G. Raia, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), and Ricky J. Patel, Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations, New York (HSI New York) announced Burton’s arraignment. 

    “Today’s arraignment sends a message to all perpetrators of global fraud schemes that my Office will work tirelessly to ensure they answer for crimes committed in the United States,” stated United States Attorney Nocella.  “We will not rest in our efforts to seek justice for victims of fraud.”

    “James Wellesley and his business partner allegedly concocted an elaborate scheme defrauding investors out of millions of dollars to finance their own personal expenses. Their alleged deceit spread across years and continents,” stated FBI New York Assistant Director in Charge Raia.  “Today’s arraignment signals to all criminals that the FBI will practice the same resolve in bringing perpetrators to justice.” 

    “James Wellesley and his co-conspirator are accused of masterminding their nearly $100 million international fraud scheme that exploited the unsuspecting public, including New Yorkers, for their own selfish enrichment. As alleged, the defendants claimed Bordeaux Cellars boasted a high-value wine stockpile and a clientele of ‘high-net-worth wine collectors’ – and in turn profited handsomely – all while they swindled investors out of hundreds of thousands of dollars, if not more,” stated HSI New York Special Agent in Charge Patel.  “Let it be known, regardless of the nature of the transnational criminal scheme, HSI New York, alongside our law enforcement partners, will continue to adapt and evolve to fight global and domestic financial crimes wherever and whenever possible.”

    The indictment alleges that from at least June 2017 and continuing through February of 2019, the defendants posed as executives Bordeaux Cellars.  The defendants solicited investors, including residents of the Eastern District of New York, at, among other places, investor conferences held in the United States and overseas.  The defendants claimed to investors that Bordeaux Cellars brokered loans between investors and high-net-worth wine collectors that would be fully collateralized by high-value collections of wine.  The defendants promised that investors would receive regular interest payments from the borrowers, and that Bordeaux Cellars would keep custody of the wine, securing the loans while the loans were outstanding.  As alleged, these representations were lies, the “high-net-worth wine collectors” did not actually exist, and Bordeaux Cellars did not maintain custody of the wine purportedly securing the loans.  Instead, the defendants used incoming loan proceeds to make fraudulent interest payments to investors and for their own personal expenses, resulting in $99 million dollars’ worth of misdirected funds. 

    The charges in the indictment are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.  If convicted, the defendants face up to 20 years in prison. 

    The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs (OIA) provided significant assistance in securing Wellesley’s arrest and extradition from the UK.  This Office thanks UK authorities for their assistance in this matter.

    The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Business and Securities Fraud Section.  Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin Weintraub is in charge of the prosecution. 

    The Defendants:

    STEPHEN BURTON
    Age: 58
    United Kingdom

    JAMES WELLESLEY
    Age: 56
    United Kingdom

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 22-CR-79 (PKC)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Marking International Women’s Day 2025: Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej & First Ladies of Africa Empower and Uplift Women & Girls Through Education & Healthcare

    Source: APO

    Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany together with First Ladies of Africa who are also their Ambassadors, Ministries of Health, Education, Communication & Gender, mark ‘International Women’s Day 2025’, through their impactful development programs, continuing their 13-year legacy of empowering women and girls.

    Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and One of the Most Influential African Women for Six Consecutive Years (2019 – 2024) expressed, “Happy International Women’s Day to all the remarkable women and girls around the world!

    Empowering girls and women is at the core of all our initiatives and programs at Merck Foundation. I recognize the immense potential of women to thrive, succeed and excel in any domain they choose, yet they often lack the conducive environment to fully realize their capabilities, especially in underserved communities.

    Therefore, together with our Ambassadors, The First Ladies of Africa, we mark International Women’s Day every day since the last 13 years through our development programs and initiatives such as ‘More Than a Mother’, ‘Merck Foundation Capacity Advancement’, ‘Educating Linda’, and ‘STEM Program’.”

    “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” is a strong movement that aims to empower infertile and childless women through access to information, education and change of mindset.

    “I am thrilled to share that out of the 2,282 scholarships awarded across 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties, 1046 scholarships, that is nearly 50% have been granted to female medical graduates, empowering them to become future healthcare experts and leaders.

    I am especially proud that we have awarded over 680 scholarships to young doctors, dedicated to advancing women’s health by strengthening reproductive, sexual health, and fertility care capacity.”

    Merck Foundation CEO strongly believes that Education is one of the most critical areas of women empowerment.

    “I am happy to share that through our “Educating Linda” Program, together with my dear sisters, our Ambassadors, we are contributing to the future of over 700 girls by providing scholarships to continue their education and also providing essential school items for thousands of schoolgirls in many African countries such as Botswana, Burundi, Malawi, The Gambia, Nigeria, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Namibia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Cabo Verde and more.

    Moreover, we have benefitted thousands of girls through our awareness campaign through many initiates like the release of inspiring songs, children’s storybooks, animation films, TV Program and awards for best media, song, film & fashion designs, all aimed at promoting girl education today for women’s empowerment tomorrow”, emphasized Senator Rasha Kelej.

    Merck Foundation also actively empowers women in Science and Technology through its STEM Program and the annual Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards that recognize and celebrate the Best African Women Researchers and Best Young African Researchers, fostering research excellence.

    “Our goal is to empower women and young African researchers, enhance their research capacity, and promote their contributions to STEM,” emphasized Dr. Kelej.

    Watch the Episodes of “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” TV program on Supporting Girl Education:

    Episode 2: https://apo-opa.co/4mfjkXN

    Episode 11: https://apo-opa.co/46OtJ7Y

    Episode 14: https://apo-opa.co/4eOnPpH

    Listen to Merck Foundation song about Supporting Girl Education here:

    1. Watch, share & subscribe to the “Girl Can” song here, sung by two famous singers, Irene and Cwezi from Liberia and Ghana respectively: https://apo-opa.co/4eWbPm8
    2. Watch, share & subscribe the “Like Them” song here, sung by Kenneth, a famous singer from Uganda: https://apo-opa.co/4lo4Wfy
    3. Watch, share & subscribe “Take me to School” song here, sung by Wezi, Afro-soul singer from Zambia, to support girls’ education: https://apo-opa.co/4ePQxWU
    4. Watch share & subscribe “Tu Podes Sim” Portuguese song, which means “Yes, You Can” in English by Blaze and Tamyris Moiane, singers from Mozambique in English here: https://apo-opa.co/46GXwPY  
    5. Watch, share & subscribe “Brighter day” song by Sean K and Cwesi Oteng from Namibia and Ghana respectively: https://apo-opa.co/3GInicb

    Watch the Merck Foundation Animation Films to Support Girl Education :

    Ride into to Future: https://apo-opa.co/4lRcDdZ

    Jackeline’s Rescue: https://apo-opa.co/3Gqi1pF

    Read the Merck Foundation storybook addressing the importance of Girl Education:

    1. To read Educating Linda Storybook, pls visit: https://apo-opa.co/46tUZJ9
    1. To read Jackline’s Rescue Storybook, pls visit: https://apo-opa.co/44ulKeY
    1. To read Ride into the Future Storybook, pls visit: https://apo-opa.co/3Io25ox
    1. To read Not Who You Are Storybook, pls visit: https://apo-opa.co/4lCn71q

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor warns Londoners living in basement properties about flood risk as the capital marks London Climate Action Week

    Source: Mayor of London

    As part of London Climate Action Week (21-27 June), the Mayor has written to Londoners in 56,000 basement properties to urgently raise awareness of the increased risk of floods due to climate change and to help people prepare in the event of a flood.

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  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Weird space weather seems to have influenced human behavior on Earth 41,000 years ago – our unusual scientific collaboration explores how

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Raven Garvey, Associate Professor of Anthropology, University of Michigan

    Wandering magnetic fields would have had noticeable effects for humans. Maximilian Schanner (GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences, Potsdam, Germany)

    Our first meeting was a bit awkward. One of us is an archaeologist who studies how past peoples interacted with their environments. Two of us are geophysicists who investigate interactions between solar activity and Earth’s magnetic field.

    When we first got together, we wondered whether our unconventional project, linking space weather and human behavior, could actually bridge such a vast disciplinary divide. Now, two years on, we believe the payoffs – personal, professional and scientific – were well worth the initial discomfort.

    Our collaboration, which culminated in a recent paper in the journal Science Advances, began with a single question: What happened to life on Earth when the planet’s magnetic field nearly collapsed roughly 41,000 years ago?

    Weirdness when Earth’s magnetic shield falters

    This near-collapse is known as the Laschamps Excursion, a brief but extreme geomagnetic event named for the volcanic fields in France where it was first identified. At the time of the Laschamps Excursion, near the end of the Pleistocene epoch, Earth’s magnetic poles didn’t reverse as they do every few hundred thousand years. Instead, they wandered, erratically and rapidly, over thousands of miles. At the same time, the strength of the magnetic field dropped to less than 10% of its modern day intensity.

    So, instead of behaving like a stable bar magnet – a dipole – as it usually does, the Earth’s magnetic field fractured into multiple weak poles across the planet. As a result, the protective force field scientists call the magnetosphere became distorted and leaky.

    The magnetosphere normally deflects much of the solar wind and harmful ultraviolet radiation that would otherwise reach Earth’s surface.

    So, during the Laschamps Excursion when the magnetosphere broke down, our models suggest a number of near-Earth effects. While there is still work to be done to precisely characterize these effects, we do know they included auroras – normally seen only in skies near the poles as the Northern Lights or Southern Lights – wandering toward the equator, and significantly higher-than-present-day doses of harmful solar radiation.

    The skies 41,000 years ago may have been both spectacular and threatening. When we realized this, we two geophysicists wanted to know whether this could have affected people living at the time.

    The archaeologist’s answer was absolutely.

    Human responses to ancient space weather

    For people on the ground at that time, auroras may have been the most immediate and striking effect, perhaps inspiring awe, fear, ritual behavior or something else entirely. But the archaeological record is notoriously limited in its ability to capture these kinds of cognitive or emotional responses.

    Researchers are on firmer ground when it comes to the physiological impacts of increased UV radiation. With the weakened magnetic field, more harmful radiation would have reached Earth’s surface, elevating risk of sunburn, eye damage, birth defects, and other health issues.

    In response, people may have adopted practical measures: spending more time in caves, producing tailored clothing for better coverage, or applying mineral pigment “sunscreen” made of ochre to their skin. As we describe in our recent paper, the frequency of these behaviors indeed appears to have increased across parts of Europe, where effects of the Laschamps Excursion were pronounced and prolonged.

    Naturally occurring ochre can act as a protective sunscreen if applied to skin.
    Museo Egizio di Torino

    At this time, both Neanderthals and members of our species, Homo sapiens, were living in Europe, though their geographic distributions likely overlapped only in certain regions. The archaeological record suggests that different populations exhibited distinct approaches to environmental challenges, with some groups perhaps more reliant on shelter or material culture for protection.

    Importantly, we’re not suggesting that space weather alone caused an increase in these behaviors or, certainly, that the Laschamps caused Neanderthals to go extinct, which is one misinterpretation of our research. But it could have been a contributing factor – an invisible but powerful force that influenced innovation and adaptability.

    Cross-discipline collaboration

    Collaborating across such a disciplinary gap was, at first, daunting. But it turned out to be deeply rewarding.

    Archaeologists are used to reconstructing now-invisible phenomena like climate. We can’t measure past temperatures or precipitation directly, but they’ve left traces for us to interpret if we know where and how to look.

    An artistic rendering of how far into lower latitudes the aurora might have been visible during the Laschamps Excursion.
    Maximilian Schanner (GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences, Potsdam, Germany)

    But even archaeologists who’ve spent years studying the effects of climate on past behaviors and technologies may not have considered the effects of the geomagnetic field and space weather. These effects, too, are invisible, powerful and best understood through indirect evidence and modeling. Archaeologists can treat space weather as a vital component of Earth’s environmental history and future forecasting.

    Likewise, geophysicists, who typically work with large datasets, models and simulations, may not always engage with some of the stakes of space weather. Archaeology adds a human dimension to the science. It reminds us that the effects of space weather don’t stop at the ionosphere. They can ripple down into the lived experiences of people on the ground, influencing how they adapt, create and survive.

    The Laschamps Excursion wasn’t a fluke or a one-off. Similar disruptions of Earth’s magnetic field have happened before and will happen again. Understanding how ancient humans responded can provide insight into how future events might affect our world – and perhaps even help us prepare.

    Our unconventional collaboration has shown us how much we can learn, how our perspective changes, when we cross disciplinary boundaries. Space may be vast, but it connects us all. And sometimes, building a bridge between Earth and space starts with the smallest things, such as ochre, or a coat, or even sunscreen.

    Agnit Mukhopadhyay has received funding from NASA Science Mission Directorate and the University of Michigan Rackham Graduate School.

    Raven Garvey and Sanja Panovska do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Weird space weather seems to have influenced human behavior on Earth 41,000 years ago – our unusual scientific collaboration explores how – https://theconversation.com/weird-space-weather-seems-to-have-influenced-human-behavior-on-earth-41-000-years-ago-our-unusual-scientific-collaboration-explores-how-257216

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor welcomes biggest ever funding settlement for affordable housebuilding in the capital as huge win for Londoners

    Source: Mayor of London

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has today hailed the package of changes announced by the UK Government – including the biggest and longest funding settlement that the capital has ever received for affordable and social housebuilding – as a huge win for all Londoners.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement from Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan on 20th anniversary of 7/7 terror attacks

    Source: Mayor of London

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “Today we mark 20 years since the horrendous 7 July terror attacks shook our city. We remember the 52 people whose lives were cruelly stolen on that dark day, and our thoughts and prayers remain with all of their loved ones, as well as the more than 700 people who were injured by these cowardly acts of hatred.

    “We also pay tribute to those who ran towards danger on that terrible day. From emergency service personnel to transport workers and members of the public, who showed incredible courage and compassion by putting their own safety at risk to help those in need, their bravery and selflessness will never be forgotten.

    “Two decades on – as we unite for a day of commemoration – I have a clear message for those who seek to spread division and sow hatred: you will never win. London’s determination to stand together is stronger than ever. We will always choose hope over fear, and unity over division, as we continue building a safer London for everyone.”

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor of London launches a next-generation city data platform to unlock the power of data for Londoners

    Source: Mayor of London

    • Mayor of London launches new cutting-edge Data for London Library to make it easier to use data to benefit Londoners and London and power smarter AI-enabled public services
    • The Library is a key step in improving data sharing across the city – which is essential to the AI, data and infrastructure London will need to power the next generation of public services – by connecting datasets held by organisations across the capital
    • Launched during London Data Week, a 50+ festival delivered by the Greater London Authority,  London Councils and the Alan Turing Institute, this delivers a manifesto commitment to bring forward new data services that support city priorities and ensure the digital and AI revolution serves Londoners and their needs

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has launched the Data for London Library, a cutting-edge new platform that will transform how London collects, shares and uses data to improve public services, unlock growth and create a more inclusive, sustainable city.

    Launched during the biggest ever London Data Week, the Library is part of the Mayor’s ambitious Data for London programme and marks a major milestone in the evolution of London’s data infrastructure. It will replace the London Datastore, which was first launched in 2010 and at the time was one of the world’s earliest and most innovative open data platforms.

    The Library aims to be the definitive catalogue of place data for London – including environment, buildings, and demographics – creating a single, vital resource for researchers and data users seeking rich contextual insight for data services and projects. It takes an innovative approach by connecting, not collecting, datasets held by key London partners starting with Transport for London, the Department of Health and Social Care as well as Barnet, Brent, Camden, and Redbridge councils, and the Office for National Statistics. This collaborative working helps build London’s data infrastructure while acknowledging London’s breadth and large number of organisations that keep the city running.   

    Over its 15-year history, the previous London Datastore, which the Library will replace, pioneered new ways of making public data accessible and useful to communities, policymakers and innovators. The Data for London Library builds on that legacy, offering more than 5,100 datasets, faster search tools, and improved discoverability to make it easier for everyone – from citizens to researchers to startups – to find and use trusted data that benefits Londoners.

    Data from the London Datastore has been used to: 

    • Improve air quality by collating data from air quality sensors across London to help map and predict air pollution episodes. This enables us to issue pollution alerts for Londoners, helping people with health conditions sensitive to pollution live healthier lives as part of the Breath London project.
    • Support Net Zero by providing energy efficiency data for all London homes in a transparent, shareable way through the London Building Stock Model. This helps councils to identify and prioritise homes that need retrofitting and is a key tool to support the delivery of the Mayor’s Warmer Homes London programme with London Councils.
    • Tackle rough sleeping by publishing quarterly and annual CHAIN reports based on data collected by outreach teams and services across London. These reports provide strategic insights into rough sleeping trends, supporting public understanding and helping the Mayor, councils, and charities work toward the goal of ending rough sleeping in London by 2030.

    By making it easier to find and use data held across the city, in one place, the Library becomes core infrastructure for the current AI revolution by addressing a key challenge facing innovators – discovering where datasets are. Better access to datasets enables better insights to enable preventative services, new digital or data tools to support public service productivity and opportunities for innovators across public, private, research and civil society. London’s approach to building the new data platform will be made available for other UK cities and regions to adopt.  

    London is Europe’s largest technology hub – the second largest in the world – and now firmly established as a leading player on the global stage due to the way it uses data to improve services, education, research and innovation to benefit communities across the capital. London is also at the forefront of AI research and top three globally for venture capital investment into this technology. 

    The recently published London Growth Plan identifies huge opportunities to turbocharge the capital’s economy by harnessing the potential of rapidly growing tech sectors such as AI. The Data for London programme will help to support this by improving city data sharing, increasing collaboration, developing public trust, boosting Londoners’ digital skills and leading modern connectivity.   

    Theo Blackwell MBE, Chief Digital Officer for London, said: “London is great at collaboration and the new Data for London Library is rooted in partnership. We’ve been working closely with the data community, the London Office of Technology and Innovation, local authorities in London and other data providers in the city to prioritise the features and improve the user experience.”

    “This is just the beginning, we are only going one way – there is no global trend towards less data. AI systems of the future are heavily dependent on the quality and quantity of the data they are trained on, so our focus now is to build more data sources into the Data for London Library and to make it easier to navigate complex data sharing agreements to benefit the city’s strategic position as the vanguard of the data and AI revolution. This is how we can build a better, fairer, more prosperous London for everyone.”

    Eddie Copeland, Director at the London Office of Technology & Innovation, said: “Successfully tackling many of the biggest issues we face in the capital, from climate change to tackling homelessness, depends on bringing together data from many different sources. The Data for London Library and platform will provide a huge boost for our ability to join up, analyse and act upon data at a truly London scale to benefit Londoners.” 

    Director of the Open Data Institute and Data for London Advisory Board Member Stuart Coleman said: “At the ODI, we advocate for practical, well-governed data infrastructure that makes it easier for people to access, use and share data. The Data for London Library shows how the public sector can take steps to make datasets more discoverable and usable. By opening up access to data from across the capital, it offers a pragmatic model that others can learn from. As the National Data Library develops, examples like this can help demonstrate what works in practice, particularly when it comes to improving interoperability, making data AI-ready, and building on existing foundations rather than starting from scratch.”

    Dr Cosmina Dorobantu, Data for London Advisory Board member and Senior Advisor and Visiting Professor in Practice at the LSE Data Science Institute, said: “As a member of the Mayor’s Data for London Board and someone who is helping to build a world-leading institute for AI and the social sciences here in London, within the London School of Economics and Political Science, I am tremendously excited to see the launch of the Data for London Library. Today’s launch is an important first step towards making the vast amounts of data collected in London more accessible, and towards increasing the data maturity of contributing organisations. The foundations that the team behind the Data for London Library have built are essential for creating the invaluable data resources that businesses, researchers, and policymakers need to build a better, more prosperous, and more equitable city.”

    Muniya Barua, Deputy Chief Executive at BusinessLDN, said: “The launch of the new Data for London Library marks a significant milestone in the capital’s ambitious growth plans. It puts a wealth of up-to-the-minute public and private sector data at the fingertips of businesses and policymakers which can be used to drive innovation and transform the lives of Londoners. Having long championed the transformative potential of data sharing, we now look to the Mayor’s spatial strategy, the London Plan, to ensure it supports the development of critical infrastructure – from data centres to improved broadband connectivity – which will enable the benefits of this new platform to be maximised and London to lead the way in AI and other cutting-edge technologies.”

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