NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI: Emerging Markets in Africa and Asia Downloaded Bitget Wallet More Than Major Centralized Exchanges

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, Oct. 17, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget Wallet, the leading Web3 non-custodial wallet, has surpassed 40 million users, doubling its user base in just six months. The wallet also climbed to the second spot in global crypto app downloads for September, with nearly 6 million downloads in that month alone, closing in on Binance. This explosive growth is largely contributed by emerging markets, where Bitget Wallet’s user base has skyrocketed. Notably, Bitget Wallet’s user growth rate in Africa reached 413% and South Asia saw a 126% increase. These regions are turning to decentralized wallets as vital tools for financial independence and easy access to crypto services, often filling gaps left by centralized financial systems.

    In countries like Nigeria, where Bitget Wallet’s user growth rate hit 468% in Q3 2024, rising inflation and weakening currencies have led to increased adoption of decentralized wallets as secure, reliable financial tools. According to Bloomberg, the local naira currency has lost about 70% of its value since May 2023. As a result, people are seeking alternatives to preserve their wealth and participate in stable financial systems. Bitget Wallet serves this need, offering easy access to crypto assets and rewards with all-rounded trading and earning features, making it No. 1 on the App Store in Nigeria in June 2024.

    In Southeast Asia, Play-to-Earn (P2E) games once dominated the blockchain gaming landscape, attracting a young, tech-savvy audience. However, the trend has evolved towards Tap-to-Earn (T2E) games within Telegram ecosystem. T2E games are more accessible, requiring no separate app downloads or upfront NFT investments. Their simplicity, combined with Telegram’s referral system, has facilitated easy onboarding of new users, making Telegram a fertile ground for blockchain gaming.

    In Q3 2024, Bitget Wallet experienced a surge in user growth, particularly in the Philippines and Vietnam, with growth rates of 102% and 73%, respectively. This spike is attributed to the T2E trend, where users earn money by engaging with Telegram mini-games. The shift from P2E to T2E highlights a broader trend towards more integrated blockchain ecosystems, showcasing how gaming apps and social interactions are driving cryptocurrency adoption among younger generations.

    With its remarkable growth, Bitget Wallet aims to be the ultimate gateway for the next billion users to Web3, bringing together the best and latest opportunities in one seamless app. “We believe Web3 offers unprecedented potential for financial freedom, security through self-custody, and a more equitable future. Our mission is to make Web3 easy and accessible for everyone. We’re committed to bringing financial inclusion to regions where centralized financial systems fall short and giving people seamless tools to participate in a global decentralized economy,” said Alvin Kan, COO at Bitget Wallet.

    India’s crypto users are increasingly seeking decentralized financial tools amidst ongoing security concerns and regulatory uncertainty around centralized exchanges. Bitget Wallet has capitalized on this trend, recording 191% user growth in India during Q3 2024. The rise is attributed to its ability to cater to these needs by offering enhanced security features such as keyless MPC wallet, which removes the need for private keys and provides a more user-friendly experience. Additionally, Bitget Wallet’s integration with Telegram Tap-to-Earn mini-games, has made it easier for Indian users to engage with Web3.

    For similar reasons, European users are increasingly opting for decentralized wallets as alternatives to centralized exchanges. Countries like France, Germany, and the UK, where Bitget Wallet saw 286%, 115% and 94% user growth in Q3 respectively, are leading this trend. Users in these regions are drawn to Bitget Wallet’s all-in-one platform, which allows them to manage, trade, and explore decentralized apps extensively and securely. As wallets continue to evolve, they are emerging as essential entry points to Web3 for users across Europe.

    To get started with Bitget Wallet, please visit here.

    About Bitget Wallet

    Bitget Wallet stands as one of the world’s leading non-custodial Web3 wallets and decentralized ecosystem platform. With the Bitget Onchain Layer, the wallet is well-poised to develop a burgeoning DeFi ecosystem through co-creation and strategic incubation. Aside from a powerful Swap function, Bitget Wallet also offers multi-chain asset management, smart money insights, a native Launchpad, Inscriptions Center, and an Earning Center. Supporting over 100 major blockchains, 500,000+ tokens, and a wide array of DApps, Bitget Wallet is your top wallet for asset discovery and Web3 exploration.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | Discord

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5b2fe99a-7041-4e45-9de8-d37cb4be97c4

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: British Caribbean Minister meets Prime Minister Philip Davis KC in The Bahamas as the two countries strengthen trade ties

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Baroness Chapman signs new trade deals between the UK and The Bahamas

    • Baroness Chapman to visit The Bahamas as part of her first visit to the Western Caribbean
    • Minister meeting with Prime Minister Philip Davis KC to formally sign series of UK-Bahamas trade deals
    • UK-Bahamas trade relationship worth $5bn per year

    The UK Minister for the Caribbean, Baroness Chapman is in The Bahamas today.

    While in Nassau, the Minister met Prime Minister Philip Davis KC to discuss formally our bilateral partnership, and our shared priority of growing our economies, empowering our young people, and fighting the climate and nature crises.

    The Minister and Prime Minister announced a series of new trade deals between the UK and The Bahamas, that will see UK businesses including Manchester Airport Group and Amey PLC awarded contracts for work to operator Freeport Airport, and rebuild Glass Window Bridge.  

    In a demonstration of the growing UK-Bahamas trade relationship, Baroness Chapman was also able to announce that Amey PLC, the firm behind construction of the M1 and the rebuilding of Liverpool Lime Street, will be making Nassau the home of its first ever office in the Americas.

    The firm will hire and train Bahamian engineers and project managers, and connect Bahamian companies with British expertise to win contracts across the Caribbean and USA. 

    The current trade relationship between the UK and The Bahamas amounts to $5bn a year, making the UK one of The Bahamas’ most significant trade partners.

    UK Caribbean Minister, Baroness Chapman said:

    The UK-Bahamas relationship is going from strength to strength.  

    The deals I am announcing alongside the Right Honourable Philip Davis here this week will see British businesses deliver essential infrastructure projects for The Bahamas, and invest directly in The Bahamas.

    They are a further illustration of our growing partnership, as we continue work to deliver growth and prosperity for the people of both our nations.

    I look forward to continuing to deepen our ties from trade to climate during my time in The Bahamas.

    During her visit, Baroness Chapman also met Minister of Education and Technical and Vocational Training, Glenys Hanna-Martin, where she formally handed over 10,000 pages of historic documents pertaining to Bahamian Independence, that have been stored in the National Archives in the UK.  

    The documents have also been digitised and will be made available by The Bahamas’ National Archive, which will increase access and public understanding of the process undertaken to achieve independence by students both in The Bahamas and the UK.  

    Following a visit to a coral reef to see the work local NGOs are doing to preserve an important ecological area, the Minister toured the University of The Bahamas, where she took part in a roundtable alongside environmental science students, academics and NGOs focused on the impact of climate change on The Bahamas.

    Finally, the Minister visited the Forensics department of The Royal Bahamas Police Force and met two senior female officers who were recipients of the UK Chevening scholarship, and who received formal UK forensics training.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

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

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Transition Finance Market Review launch

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Keynote speech by Minister for Industry at the launch event for the Transition Finance Market Review.

    Location:
    Guildhall, London
    Delivered on:
    (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

    Thank you Councillor for your warm welcome and for your work as part of this review.  

    This is my second time this week in the Guildhall. We had the big Investment Summit here on Monday. It’s always very special to come to the Guildhall. 

    For 2,000 years this site has been a hub of development, business and finance, so it’s apt that we meet here today to discuss more modern means of generating profitable, sustainable growth in the UK.  

     I want to start by congratulating Vanessa and the team and everyone who has taken part in the Transition Finance Market Review and for publishing your comprehensive report and to City of London Corporation for hosting this event.  

    This is a really important review, which will influence how we think about financing the clean energy transition in the UK and around the world.  

    Our twin  goals of clean power by 2030 and accelerating to net zero in 2050 are ambitious… 

    …but, as the men and women who stood in this Guildhall over the centuries knew, with any period of growth comes huge opportunity. 

    Which is why we need to deploy all the tools at our disposal – from innovative new technology at scale, to novel and creative financial packages that mirror that ambition.  

    Clean energy is at the heart of this government’s agenda.  

    We believe that clean energy is the economic and industrial opportunity of the 21st century.  

    Mobilising public and private finance will be critical to achieving our clean energy mission and international climate goals.  

    The government is working quickly to remove the barriers and deploy legislative actions to accelerate the work.  

    Take the de-facto onshore wind ban.  

    Removed within 72 hours of being in office… 

    Now we must support industry on how to break ground on multiple new projects.    

    It’s why we are introducing a Planning and Infrastructure Bill to speed up and streamline the planning process.  

    And we will also be updating the relevant National Policy Statements within the next 12 months to provide certainty to the industry. 

    By stimulating the market and crowding-in investment via Great British Energy, we stand to rapidly grow supply chains across the country, creating the well-paid and meaningful jobs our communities crave. 

    But this all points back to finance. 

    How do we approach the question of scaling up the investment we need?  

    First, our ambition is to make the UK the green finance capital of the world.  

    This will mobilise Britain’s world-leading financial centre to unlock the trillions of pounds of investment needed for the global energy transition.   

    A strong sustainable finance policy framework is critical to driving investment into the sectors that are crucial to meet our carbon budgets.  

    It also provides a huge economic growth opportunity for the financial services sector.  

    Second, there must be a genuine partnership between government and the private sector.

    In the UK we need hundreds of billions of pounds of investment to make this transition happen.  

    Our role is to set a clear and certain direction of travel, with a plan that businesses and investors understand. 

    And third, we remain committed to being a strong advocate for climate finance to ensure developing countries across the world have the finance they need.   

    COP29 needs to deliver an ambitious new climate finance goal that meets the needs and priorities of developing countries.  

    This will be vital to accelerating investment in mitigation and adaptation and will play an important role in securing ambitious NDCs ahead of COP30 next year.  

    But we know that this won’t be as easy as flicking a switch for high emitting sectors.  

    Transition finance for hard-to-abate sectors will play a key role, particularly when it comes to challenges such as industrial decarbonisation.  

    I know there are complex challenges to overcome in scaling up the transition finance market. 

    These include minimising the risks of greenwashing and ensuring investors are equipped with the right information on investment needs for our sectors.  

    But there are huge opportunities too.  

    So, what is changing? 

    The Transition Finance Market Review has developed a comprehensive set of policy recommendations for how government can do more to accelerate the growth and ensure the credibility of our transition finance market.  

    The Review has called for more clarity on decarbonisation pathways for key sectors and ways of mobilising private investment to achieve these. 

    We will strive to deliver this clarity through existing and new policy, including our Industrial Strategy launched on Monday setting out the steps we are taking to deliver long-term growth while harnessing the opportunities of net zero. 

    Clean Energy Industries are one of eight growth-driving sectors identified in the Industrial Strategy green paper this week. This is alongside Advanced Manufacturing, Creative Industries, Defence, Digital and Technologies, Financial Services, Life Sciences, and Professional and Business Services.  

    We are now keen to hear your thoughts on how we identify the most promising sub-sectors within clean energy industries – including the most innovative emerging technologies. 

    More over, our green paper makes clear the UK is committed to sustaining growth – growth that is aligned with our Net Zero and environmental objectives. 

    We also announced a National Wealth Fund capitalised with £27.8 billion to invest in the new industries of the future and mobilise billions more in private investment and generating a return for taxpayers.  

    The National Wealth Fund will build on the leadership of the UK Infrastructure Bank but go further – including in ways recommended by the Transition Finance Market Review.  

    And just one example, the National Wealth Fund will be empowered to make investments that maximise the mobilisation of private investment, including an expanded suite of financial instruments such as performance guarantees and trialling new blended finance solutions, with government departments, taking on additional risk to facilitate higher impact in individual deals. 

    It will inherit UKIB’s existing £22 billion capitalisation and have an additional £5.8 billion, which will be committed over this Parliament. 

    In addition, we are driving forward several green finance priorities mentioned in the Review. 

    We are developing our approach to mandate UK registered financial institutions and large companies to implement credible transition plans. 

    we will ensure we move from ambition into coherent strategies to realise the opportunities of the net zero economy… 

    …and I want to extend my thanks to the Transition Plan Taskforce for their work to pioneer global best practice in this space. 

    We will also continue to advance our plans for a UK Green Taxonomy in line with our commitment in Financing Growth.  

    We want to ensure any framework is science-based, interoperable with international standards, and user-friendly for business and intend to provide more detail on our plans in this area soon.  

    Finally, we are advancing plans to ‘endorse’ international climate-related reporting standards issued by the International Sustainability Standards for use in the UK. 

    Our government will be studying the recommendations in the report very carefully and will be making further announcements on their implementation soon.  

    Clean power by 2030 is ambitious. But when you look around the world, you see that we have no time to waste.  

    Climactic events are worsening. All the industrialised nations around the world have a responsibility to step-up and redress this imbalance, using whatever resources necessary.  

    Domestically, we know that the advance of the green sector is intrinsically linked to the economy, and it is our core mission to deliver meaningful, well-paid jobs fuelled by renewable growth.   

    And it’s the reason we’re going all-out for clean power.  

    All of this hinges on mobilising green finance today, so that decades from now, people will remember this period as our green industrial revolution, delivering prosperity, skills and clean energy for millions of people.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Spelthorne Borough Council: Assistant Best Value Inspector appointment letters

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Letters appointing Assistant Best Value Inspectors in relation to Spelthorne Borough Council.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    Spelthorne Borough Council: Assistant Inspector appointment letter (Deborah McLaughlin)

    PDF, 161 KB, 1 page

    Spelthorne Borough Council: Assistant Inspector appointment letter (Mervyn Greer)

    PDF, 167 KB, 1 page

    Spelthorne Borough Council: Assistant Inspector appointment letter (Peter Robinson)

    PDF, 162 KB, 1 page

    Details

    Copies of the letters from Max Soule, Deputy Director Local Government Stewardship and Interventions at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to Deborah McLaughlin, Mervyn Greer and Peter Robinson, detailing the decision by ministers to appoint them as Assistant Inspectors in relation to Spelthorne Borough Council under section 10 of the Local Government Act 1999.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU-Gulf Cooperation Council summit

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    16 Ottobre 2024

    The President of the Council of Ministers, Giorgia Meloni, attended the EU-Gulf Cooperation Council summit at the Europa building in Brussels today. Following the working session, President Meloni addressed journalists at a press point.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ohio Man Who Concealed Croatian War Crime Charge Sentenced to Prison for Immigration Fraud

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    An Ohio man was sentenced yesterday to three years in prison for possessing a green card he illegally obtained by concealing that he had been charged with a war crime in Croatia prior to immigrating to the United States.

    According to court documents, Jugoslav Vidic, 56, of Parma Heights, in applying to become a lawful permanent resident of the United States, falsely stated that he had never been charged with breaking any law even though he knew he had been charged in Croatia with a war crime against the civilian population. Vidic also falsely stated that his only past military service was in the Yugoslav Army from 1988 to 1989, when, in fact, he fought with the Serb Army of Krajina and its predecessors during the civil war in the former Yugoslavia from 1991 to 1995. As a result of these materially false statements, Vidic was approved for lawful permanent resident status and received a green card.

    “Jugoslav Vidic lied about war crimes charged against him in an attempt to escape his past and live in the United States unlawfully,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Thanks to the dedication of prosecutors, law enforcement, and our international partners, Vidic will serve prison time in the United States followed by his removal. His sentence demonstrates that human rights violators will not be allowed to hide from their crimes in the United States.”

    “Vidic committed serious human rights violations and was convicted of war crimes in Croatia as a result. Yet, he lied to U.S. immigration officials about his conviction and participation in a violent military force to claim refugee status and obtain a green card — becoming a permanent legal resident of our country — when he was not eligible to do so,” said U.S. Attorney Rebecca Lutzko for the Northern District of Ohio. “Those who run away from violent crimes they commit elsewhere in the world and then enter our country by brazenly lying about their past will be held to account, as yesterday’s sentence demonstrates. Vidic’s deceitful actions are detestable, and unfairly hurt people in need who legitimately seek refuge to flee real harms in their home countries.”

    “Our communities here in Ohio and across the United States are not safe havens for war criminals to escape accountability in their home countries,” said Executive Associate Director Katrina W. Berger of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). “It is my hope that this sentencing provides some measure of solace to the victims’ families with the knowledge that despite the passage of time, the United States will seek justice.”

    “Jugoslav Vidic intentionally circumvented the laws of the United States by lying on his green card application about his war crimes conviction in Croatia,” said Assistant Director Chad Yarbrough of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “This case should serve as a warning to others that the FBI will work with our law enforcement partners to identify and hold accountable those like Vidic who seek to violate U.S. law by fraud of any kind.”

    “Jugoslav Vidic knowingly avoided the truth of his past to enjoy the freedoms and liberties of the United States for over two and a half decades,” said Special Agent in Charge Greg Nelsen of the FBI Cleveland Field Office. “Yesterday’s sentence underscores the work of the FBI and its local, state, federal, and international partners and sends a clear message that people in the United States who take part in war crimes, regardless of when or where they occurred, or by masking their involvement, will be identified, investigated, and prosecuted.”

    Vidic admitted in his plea agreement that he was charged with a war crime in Croatia in 1994 and convicted in absentia in 1998. The Croatian court found that during an attack by ethnic Serb forces in Petrinja, Croatia, on Sept. 16, 1991, Vidic cut off the arm of civilian Stjepan Komes, who died afterward. Vidic further admitted that he knew about the Croatian charges when he immigrated to the United States as a refugee in 1999, applied to become a lawful permanent resident in 2000, and was interviewed by U.S. immigration officials and received his green card in 2005.

    Vidic pleaded guilty to one count of possessing an alien registration receipt card knowing it had been procured through materially false statements. As part of the plea agreement, Vidic agreed to the entry of a judicial order of removal from the United States.

    HSI and the FBI are investigating the case with coordination provided by the Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center, including the FBI’s International Human Rights Unit. The Justice Department thanks the Ministry of the Interior and Ministry of Justice and Public Administration of the Republic of Croatia, which were both instrumental in furthering the investigation.

    Trial Attorney Patrick Jasperse of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew W. Shepherd and Jerome J. Teresinski for the Northern District of Ohio are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs also provided assistance.

    Members of the public who have information about human rights violators or immigration fraud in the United States are urged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or through the FBI online tip form, or HSI at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE or through the ICE online tip form. All are staffed around the clock, and tips may be provided anonymously.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Christine Lagarde: Lessons from Ljubljana in uncertain times

    Source: European Central Bank

    Speech by Christine Lagarde, President of the ECB, at the official dinner of Banka Slovenije in Ljubljana, Slovenia

    Ljubljana, 16 October 2024

    It is a pleasure to be here this evening.

    Not far from here, tucked away in the National and University Library, lie copies of the Abecedarium and the Catechism. These two texts, written by the religious reformer Primož Trubar in 1550, were the first ever books to be printed in Slovenian.[1]

    At a time when German was the language of the ruling classes, Trubar’s pioneering act was fundamental in helping to establish the national identity of Slovenians.[2]

    Today, his portrait graces the €1 coin in Slovenia, framed by the famous words found in the Catechism, “Stati inu Obstati” – “to stand and withstand”.[3]

    It is telling that both books – one a primer for the Slovenian language, the other guidelines for religious observance – were designed to teach, for there is much that Europe can learn from Slovenia in the uncertain world we now face.

    The global order we knew is fading. Open trade is being replaced with fragmented trade, multilateral rules with state-sponsored competition and stable geopolitics with conflict.

    Europe had invested considerably in the old order, so this transition is challenging for us. As the most open of the major economies, we are more exposed than others.

    So, in this new landscape, we too must learn “to stand and withstand”. And we can do so by drawing on two valuable lessons from Ljubljana.

    Opportunity in times of uncertainty

    The first lesson is that uncertainty can create opportunity.

    While many in Europe are anxious about the future, Slovenians are no strangers to uncertainty.

    Within a single generation, Slovenia made a success of the extraordinarily difficult transition from a planned economy to a market economy. Policymakers defied the odds by implementing tough structural reforms to first join the EU and, later, the euro area.

    Today, Slovenia is a success story. It is a developed, stable and high-income economy, with the highest GDP per capita at purchasing power parity of central and eastern European countries (CEECs).

    The nation’s success owes much to the creativity and vigour of its people and their innate ability to seize economic turning points and transform them into opportunities.

    For example, when Slovenia joined the EU, it was exposed to greater levels of competition from other Member States in the economic bloc.

    But Slovenia quickly capitalised on its skilled workforce to develop a new business model based on deep integration in the Single Market. Today, every single car produced in Europe has at least one component that is made in Slovenia.[4]

    For Europe, the changes in the global economy today represent a similar turning point. But if we approach it with the right spirit, I believe it can be an opportunity for renewal.

    A less favourable global economy can push us to complete our domestic market. Fiercer foreign competition can encourage us to develop new technologies. More volatile geopolitics can drive us to become more energy secure and self-sufficient in our supply chains.

    For Slovenia, the transformation of the automotive supply chain will be a particular challenge. But the economy is already adapting. For example, in July this year Slovenia secured a major investment in domestic electric vehicle production.[5]

    For many Slovenians, striding into an unpredictable future may seem like second nature.

    One of your most famous paintings, “The Sower”, hangs on display here at the National Gallery. Depicting an agricultural labourer at the crack of dawn hard at work sowing seeds in a field, the painting represents Slovenians’ resolute determination in the face of uncertainty.

    The rest of us in Europe will need to draw on this example in the uncertain times ahead. If we do so, we can also turn uncertainty into opportunity.

    The importance of sharing the benefits of change

    The second lesson from Slovenia is that the benefits of change can – and should – be more widely shared.

    The path of renewal for Europe is inescapably linked with new technology, especially digitalisation. But new technologies can sometimes lead to uneven labour market outcomes.

    Slovenia has undergone remarkable technological change over the past 20 years. Today, the country’s level of digital development is 7% above the CEEC average and it can compete with some of the most digitally developed EU countries in certain areas.[6]

    Yet Slovenia’s Gini coefficient – a measure of income inequality – is the second lowest in the OECD.[7] The country also benefits from high levels of gender equality. Female labour force participation is higher than the EU average and nearly equal to that of men.[8]

    Many in Europe are worried about the challenges ahead, such as the effects of artificial intelligence on social inclusion. But we should let Slovenia’s example inspire us.

    With the right approach, we can move forward and become more technologically advanced while ensuring everyone can benefit from the gains.

    And when everyone benefits, Europe benefits too. Over three-quarters of citizens in Slovenia feel attached to Europe, and almost two-thirds identify as both Slovenian and European – levels that are well above their respective EU averages.[9]

    Conclusion

    Let me conclude.

    In today’s uncertain world, Europe must learn “to stand and withstand”. And it can do so by looking to Slovenia as an example of how to overcome challenges that come its way.

    First, we must work hard to sow the seeds of success. And then, as the folk singer Vlado Kreslin sings, “vse se da” – “everything is possible”.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 16.10.2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nokia Corporation
    Stock Exchange Release
    16 October 2024 at 22:30 EET

    Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 16.10.2024

    Espoo, Finland – On 16 October 2024 Nokia Corporation (LEI: 549300A0JPRWG1KI7U06) has acquired its own shares (ISIN FI0009000681) as follows:

    Trading venue (MIC Code) Number of shares Weighted average price / share, EUR*
    XHEL 1,622,961 4.08
    CEUX 700,000 4.07
    BATE – –
    AQEU – –
    TQEX – –
    Total 2,322,961 4.08

    * Rounded to two decimals

    On 25 January 2024, Nokia announced that its Board of Directors is initiating a share buyback program to return up to EUR 600 million of cash to shareholders in tranches over a period of two years. The first phase of the share buyback program started on 20 March 2024. On 19 July 2024, Nokia decided to accelerate the share buybacks by increasing the number of shares to be repurchased during the year 2024. The post-increase repurchases in compliance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 (MAR), the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 and under the authorization granted by Nokia’s Annual General Meeting on 3 April 2024 started on 22 July 2024 and end by 31 December 2024 with a maximum aggregate purchase price of EUR 600 million for all purchases during 2024.

    Total cost of transactions executed on 16 October 2024 was EUR 9,468,621. After the disclosed transactions, Nokia Corporation holds 172,236,598 treasury shares.

    Details of transactions are included as an appendix to this announcement.

    On behalf of Nokia Corporation

    BofA Securities Europe SA

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs.

    Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    Inquiries:

    Nokia Communications
    Phone: +358 10 448 4900
    Email: press.services@nokia.com
    Maria Vaismaa, Global Head of External Communications

    Nokia Investor Relations
    Phone: +358 40 803 4080
    Email: investor.relations@nokia.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate: Valdis Dombrovskis – Economy and Productivity; Implementation and Simplification – 15-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Valdis Dombrovskis is European Commission Executive Vice-President and currently holds an economic portfolio, which since 2020 also includes trade. After becoming Commission Vice-President for the Euro and Social Dialogue in 2016, in 2019 he was promoted to Executive Vice-President for the Euro and Social Dialogue, also overseeing Financial Stability, Financial Services and the Capital Markets Union. In 2014, Dombrovskis was elected a Member of the European Parliament, sitting in the European Paople’s Party (EPP) group, a post he had already held from 2004 to 2009. He was a member of the Committee on Budgets and a substitute member of the Economic and Monetary Affairs and Budgetary Control committees. Dombrovskis served as Latvia’s prime minister from 2009 to 2014. Prior to this, from 2002 to 2004, he served as the country’s finance minister. Born in 1971 in Riga, Latvia, Dombrovskis earned a master’s degree in physics from the University of Latvia. He later obtained a professional master’s degree in customs and tax administration from Riga Technical University.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Cancellation of tender for the construction of Regional Civil Protection Operations Centres and risk of loss of funding from the Recovery Fund – E-001463/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In 2020, the General Secretariat for Civil Protection of the Ministry of Citizen Protection of Greece requested financial assistance under the Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM) and received EUR 750 000 to develop a National Disaster Risk Management Plan for Greece, which was successfully completed in 2021.

    This has helped Greece accessing funds for risk prevention and resilience under the European Cohesion Policy Funds (2021-2027). Following the 2023 wildfires, the General Secretariat for Civil Protection of Greece requested a UCPM Peer Review focused on the Greek wildfire risk management system, which was released on 20 June 2024[1].

    The Commission is monitoring the implementation of the Recovery and Resilience Fund (RRF) investment which co-funds the construction of the Regional Civil Protection Operations Centres, and is in regular contact with the Greek authorities to ensure that the investment is fully implemented within the RRF timeline. This process is ongoing.

    • [1] https://civil-protection-knowledge-network.europa.eu/news/ucpm-wildfire-peer-review-report-handed-over-greek-authorities
    Last updated: 16 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Establishment of protection zones along rivers and streams in the EU – E-001571/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) is protected by the Habitats Directive[1]. It is listed in its Annex II as a species of Community interest whose conservation requires the designation of Natura 2000 sites and in Annex V as a species of Community interest whose taking in the wild and exploitation may be subject to management measures.

    In Natura 2000 sites, Member States must take appropriate steps to avoid deterioration of habitats and significant disturbance of species for which the sites have been designated. They may also decide on additional designation of protection zones alongside rivers and streams, outside Natura 2000 sites.

    There are 19 Natura 2000 sites designated for the protection of the freshwater pearl mussel in Finland, but none of these sites comprises the population of the freshwater pearl mussel at Hukkajoki river.

    In addition, the regulation on Nature Restoration[2] requires Member States to put in place measures for restoration of terrestrial, coastal and freshwater habitats of species listed in Annex II, IV or V to the Habitats Directive, therefore including habitats of the freshwater pearl mussel, necessary to improve the quality and quantity of those habitats, including by re-establishing them and to enhance connectivity. Measures taken to comply with above-mentioned legislation may include establishment of protection zones alongside rivers and streams.

    • [1] Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora. OJ L 206, 22.7.1992, p. 7-50.
    • [2] Regulation (EU) 2024/1991 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 June 2024 on nature restoration and amending Regulation (EU) 2022/869. OJ L, 2024/1991.
    Last updated: 16 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Leaders from 120 Member Countries to attend the Seventh Session of the International Solar Alliance Assembly in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Leaders from 120 Member Countries to attend the Seventh Session of the International Solar Alliance Assembly in New Delhi  

    ISA has evolved into a key platform for global solar cooperation, now encompassing 120 Member & Signatory Countries : Union Minister Pralhad Joshi

    Seventh Session of ISA will held in New Delhi from from 3rd to 6th November 2024

    Posted On: 16 OCT 2024 7:01PM by PIB Delhi

    The curtain raiser for the Seventh Session of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Assembly was hosted today in New Delhi. Representatives from 60 countries participated in the event. 

    The assembly will be presided over by Shri Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy. The Seventh Session of the ISA Assembly is set to be a truly global event. Ministers, missions, and delegates from 120 Member and Signatory Countries, along with partner organisations and stakeholders, will come together to focus on initiatives to improve energy access, security, and transition.

    Shri Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy & President of the ISA Assembly, addressed the august gathering, stating, “ISA has evolved into a key platform for global solar cooperation, now encompassing 120 Member & Signatory Countries. This growing commitment demonstrates solar energy’s significant role in addressing our shared energy access challenges and the adverse effects of climate change. The progress made by ISA’s Member Countries in adopting solar energy is remarkable. Solar energy, available year-round and in abundance in some of our Member Countries, holds the potential to be the game-changer in the theatre of global climate action. Its attributes of being clean, reliable, free and easily accessible to all make it central to achieving universal energy access. Our efforts through the ISA focus on expanding solar infrastructure, creating green jobs, supporting livelihoods, and mitigating climate impacts.”

     

     

    Under the presidency of the Republic of India and co-presidency of the Republic of France, the seventh session of the International Solar Alliance Assembly will be held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, India, from 03 November to 06 November 2024. Ministers, mission heads, and senior government officials from 120 Member and Signatory Countries, prospective countries, partner organisations, the private sector, and key stakeholders will participate.

     

    Shri Ajay Yadav, Joint Secretary, MNRE, Government of India, in his opening remarks, noted, “Global solar deployment presents its challenges: investments, infrastructure, and indigenisation. Countering these challenges demands targeted efforts to support the sector’s expansion. Further highlighting ISA’s role and substantial contributions, he said, “To address these challenges through various programmes, initiatives, and collaborations with governments, private enterprises, and international organisations and by working with its Member Countries, ISA creates opportunities to diversify global supply chains and boost solar energy demand, contributing to manufacturing capacity growth.” Elaborating on the focused efforts, he added, “We proudly count 120 among our Member & Signatory Countries, with 102 ratifying the ISA Framework Agreement, showcasing our growing global influence. With the firm support of Member Countries, ISA has successfully launched initiatives to accelerate solar adoption, foster innovation, and enhance capacity-building efforts.”

    Dr Ajay Mathur, Director General of the International Solar Alliance, said, “The International Solar Alliance stands at the forefront of global efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDGs 7 & 13 on affordable and clean energy and climate action respectively. The International Solar Alliance is a force for change. It harmonises and aggregates demand for solar finance, technologies, innovation, research and development, and capacity building. This initiative is more than just a coalition; it is a revolutionary movement reshaping our energy landscape and our planet’s future. Adding further, he said, “As we approach the mark to last five years to realise the goals defined by the 2030 Agenda, this session of the ISA Assembly is an important nudge to accelerate our actions and raise our ambitions. All stakeholders must make this decade count in favour of climate action. Our work at the ISA directly supports the implementation of the Paris Agreement and contributes to the broader UN framework for sustainable development. ISA is working with Member Countries to help shape conducive policies to bring in investments in solar energy, a sustainable pipeline of solar-powered projects, and help build skills to sustain solar projects in the long term.”

    At this assembly, the fulcrum of the discussions will be the means and modes that will be adopted to accelerate solar deployment across Member Countries, especially in regions with limited energy access.  Additionally, updates on the following ISA’s flagship initiatives for entrepreneurs, skill enhancement and capacity building, mobilising finance, and advocacy for solar as energy as a choice will be presented:

    • SolarX Startup Challenge, launched by ISA in collaboration with Invest India in 2022, at COP27 in Egypt, the challenge aims to foster entrepreneurship by supporting scalable and replicable solar energy business models in ISA’s Member Countries.
    • The STAR-C initiative, launched in 2022 by ISA, UNIDO, and the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, France, aims to build capacity and align skills with national training needs. It enhances quality infrastructure and standards for photovoltaic and solar thermal products to drive economic growth and job creation.
    • Global Solar Facility: launched in 2022, enhances solar investments in underserved regions, particularly Africa, using tools like the Solar Payment Guarantee Fund and Solar Insurance Fund.
    • The First International Solar Festival, launched in September 2024, brought together corporates, academia, youth, community leaders, and other stakeholders to exchange ideas, promoting creativity and international cooperation for a future driven by solar energy.

     

    The Assembly’s seventh session will be followed by a day-long series of sessions styled as a ‘High-Level Conference on New Technologies for Clean Energy Transition’ on 5 November 2024 hosted in collaboration with the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, the Government of India, the Asian Development Bank, and the International Solar Energy Society. The conference’s third edition will be attended by the ministerial delegations of the ISA Member Countries, policymakers, subject matter experts, and industry leaders. Through its deliberations, the Conference aims to inspire real-world change and make significant strides toward achieving global climate goals by fostering collaboration, sparking innovation, and sharing knowledge by focusing on promoting solar energy to cut carbon emissions, find ways to expand energy access and boost economic growth. The Conference will also witness the release of the third edition of ISA’s World Solar Reports on Technology, Finance, and Markets.

    The Assembly proceedings will conclude on 6 November 2024 with a visit to a farm site on the outskirts of New Delhi showcasing the practical implementation of agrivoltaic systems. The site in Najafgarh is maintained by the India Agrivoltaics Alliance, an initiative of the National Solar Energy Federation of India (NSEFI), along with like-minded organisations dedicated to advancing the concept of agrivoltaics in India, which involves the simultaneous use of land for both agriculture and solar energy generation.

    ABOUT THE ISA ASSEMBLY

    The Assembly is the apex decision-making body of ISA, representing each Member Country. This body makes decisions concerning the implementation of the ISA’s Framework Agreement and coordinated actions to be taken to achieve its objective. The Assembly meets annually at the ministerial level at the ISA’s seat. It assesses the aggregate effect of the programmes and other activities in terms of deployment of solar energy, performance, reliability, cost and scale of finance. 120 countries are signatories to the ISA Framework Agreement, of which 102 countries have submitted the necessary instruments of ratification to become full members of the ISA. The Republic of India holds the office of the President of the ISA Assembly, with the Government of the French Republic as the co-president.

    The Seventh Session of the ISA Assembly will deliberate on initiatives of ISA that impact energy access, security, and transitions with a focus on:

    • Empowering Member Countries to adopt solar energy as the energy source of choice
    • Make energy access universal by supporting solar entrepreneurs to scale up local solutions
    • Mobilise finance to speed up solar deployment

    ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL SOLAR ALLIANCE

    The International Solar Alliance is an international organisation with 120 Member & Signatory Countries. It works with governments to improve energy access and security worldwide and promote solar power as a sustainable way to transition to a carbon-neutral future.

    ISA’s mission is to unlock US$ 1 trillion of investments in solar by 2030 while reducing the cost of the technology and its financing. It promotes the use of solar energy in the agriculture, health, transport and power generation sectors. ISA Member Countries are driving change by enacting policies and regulations, sharing best practices, agreeing on common standards, and mobilising investments. Through this work, ISA has identified and designed and tested new business models for solar projects; supported governments to make their energy legislation and policies solar-friendly through Ease of Doing Solar analytics and advisory; pooled demand for solar technology from different countries, and drove down costs; improved access to finance by reducing the risks and making the sector more attractive to private investment; increased access to solar training, data and insights for solar engineers and energy policymakers.

    ISA was formed at the 21st Conference of Parties (COP21) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) held in Paris in 2015 and is partnering with multilateral development banks (MDBs), development financial institutions (DFIs), private and public sector organisations, civil society, and other international institutions to deploy cost-effective and transformational energy solutions powered by the sun, especially in the least Developed Countries (LDCs) and the Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

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    Navin Sreejith

     

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Single European Sky 2+ package – 16-10-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    The Single European Sky (SES) initiative seeks to make EU airspace less fragmented and to improve air traffic management in terms of safety, capacity, cost-efficiency and the environment. Its current regulatory framework is based on two legislative packages: SES I (adopted in 2004), which set up the principal legal framework, and SES II (adopted in 2009), which aimed to tackle substantial air traffic growth, increase safety, and reduce costs and delays and the impact of air traffic on the environment. Nonetheless, European airspace remains fragmented, costly and inefficient. The European Commission presented a revision of the SES in 2013 (the SES 2+ package). While the Parliament adopted its first-reading position in March 2014, in December 2014 the Council agreed only a partial general approach, owing to disagreement between the UK and Spain over the application of the text to Gibraltar Airport. Once Brexit removed this blockage, the Commission amended its initial proposal. Following lengthy negotiations, the Council and Parliament negotiating teams reached a provisional agreement on 6 March 2024. The Council approved the agreed text on 26 September 2024. It now needs to be approved by Parliament. Fourth edition of a briefing originally drafted by Maria Niestadt. The ‘EU Legislation in Progress’ briefings are updated at key stages throughout the legislative procedure.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: First-ever International conference – Advancements of Research & Global Opportunities for Holistic Ayurveda – AROHA-2024 to start tomorrow in Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 16 OCT 2024 7:36PM by PIB Delhi

    All India Institute of Ayurveda, New Delhi is organising its first-ever International conference – Advancements of Research & Global Opportunities for Holistic Ayurveda – AROHA-2024 starting tomorrow from Thursday 17th October to 19th October 2024. This distinguished event will feature in-person and virtual participation, offering an unparalleled opportunity for participants. The discourse will be centered on the theme ” Advancements in Research and Global Opportunities for Holistic Ayurveda” in this global event.

    The event will be inaugurated by Dr. Justice Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud, Hon’ble Chief Justice of India. He will be joined by esteemed guests, including Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Ayush and Health & Family Welfare; Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush; and Dr. Shyama Kuruvilla, Director (ad interim) of the Global Traditional Medicine Centre, WHO, Jamnagar, Gujarat. Additionally, Lt. Gen. Madhuri Kanitkar, Vice Chancellor, Maharashtra University of Health Sciences (MUHS); Padma Bhushan Prof. Shiv Kumar Sarin, Director, ILBS; and Dr. Devendra Triguna will also grace the event.

    “AROHA-2024 will align with AIIA’s vision of positioning Ayurveda as a key pillar of global health and wellness. The conference will bring together scholars, industry leaders, and Ayurveda experts from Japan, Colombia, Australia, Germany, Sri Lanka, and Argentina will participate to explore the integration of traditional Ayurvedic wisdom with modern scientific advancements.” AIIA director Prof. (Dr.) Tanuja Nesari said.

    The conference agenda covers a wide range of topics, including Ayurveda, ethnomedicine, quality control, standardization, diagnosis, drug delivery, evidence-based understanding, and globalization. Experienced experts will share practical and  theoretical knowledge on Ayurvedic practices.

    The conference features three-day workshops and 16 scientific sessions, with over 400 research papers to be presented. The All India Institute of Ayurveda has a global presence in over 17 countries through academic and scientific collaborations with prominent organizations like the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, FIGZ Germany, AIST Japan, Western Sydney University Australia, UHN Canada, and national institutions like IGIB, AIIMS, CSIR, IIT, etc.

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    MV/AKS

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Teaching qualification disparities in the European Union – E-001997/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001997/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Valentina Palmisano (The Left)

    Mission 4, Component 1, Reform 2.1 of the Italian National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) provides for a new system for the recruitment of teachers that is based on the provision of teaching qualifications through specific training courses.

    However, to obtain qualifications quickly, many aspiring Italian teachers turn to online universities and foreign training centres, particularly in Romania and Spain, which do not meet the minimum training requirements, bypassing selection procedures for entry, traineeships and final examinations.

    Problems with the circumvention of the minimum criteria laid down in legislation also concern specialisation courses on support, TFAs: according to a number of reports, there are centres offering accelerated, very short courses and arrangements that raise serious doubts about the quality and regularity of the qualifications issued.

    These practices could undermine the quality of teaching and breach EU provisions on the recognition of professional qualifications.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of these disparities in teaching qualifications obtained by Italian citizens from other countries and of their possible impact on the quality of education in the EU?
    • 2.What steps will the Commission take to ensure that qualifications issued in other Member States conform to EU rules and to prevent practices that undermine teaching quality and mutual recognition of professional qualifications?

    Submitted: 9.10.2024

    Last updated: 16 October 2024

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Sh Jyotiraditya M Scindia Inaugurates International 6G Symposium

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Minister Sh Jyotiraditya M Scindia Inaugurates International 6G Symposium

    Bharat 6G Alliance Expands Global Collaboration with Key MoUs Signed at the Symposium

    “Bharat 6G Alliance will play a constructive role in the standards-making process for 6G.”: Sh  Scindia

    Posted On: 16 OCT 2024 7:52PM by PIB Delhi

    Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Hon’ble Minister of Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, inaugurated the International 6G Symposium today at the sidelines of ITU-WTSA24 and IMC 24.

    Addressing the inaugural event, Minister Scindia highlighted the transformative potential of 6G, emphasizing its role in driving economic growth and technological innovation. “As 6G standards evolve, the shift towards software-centric technology presents a significant opportunity for India, with our large pool of engineering and software talent” he said.

    Sh Scindia also added that, “Bharat 6G Alliance will play a constructive role in the standards-making process for 6G and 10% of 6G Patents will come from India.”

    While talking about India’s growing image of becoming a Vishwa Bandhu, Minister Scindia shared that, “As the Voice of the Global South, India will continue to advocate for technology that is inclusive and affordable for all.”

    The event, organized by the Bharat 6G Alliance, marks a crucial milestone in India’s journey towards global leadership in 6G technology. The Bharat 6G Alliance is a collaborative initiative of Indian industry, academia, national research institutions and standards organizations. It brings together various stakeholders to foster innovation, standardization, and research in the field of 6G telecommunications and to contribute to global 6G standards through bodies like the ITU and 3GPP (Third Generation Partnership Project).

    Highlighting India’s immense potential in the 6G landscape Shri Scindia reiterated India’s ambition to lead the global 6G ecosystem through the Bharat 6G Alliance. “While we actively contributed to the global 5G landscape, our aspiration now is to lead the world in 6G development, with strong international collaboration,” he added.

    The symposium began with a welcome address by Mr. N. G. Subramaniam (NGS), Chair of the Bharat 6G Alliance, Chairperson of Tata Elxsi, and Chairperson of Tejas Networks. “India is actively collaborating with industry, academia, and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to shape the future, one that empowers people on a large scale,” said Mr. Subramaniam.

     

    Dr. Neeraj Mittal, Secretary Telecom, delivered the keynote address, stressing the importance of developing 6G infrastructure to position India as a global frontrunner in telecommunications. He emphasized the need for India to build robust 6G infrastructure and foster public-private partnerships to maintain a leading position in the global telecommunications sector. “Developing a skilled workforce and collaborating with global academic institutions will be critical as we implement 6G over the next 6-8 years,” he said.

    The Bharat 6G Alliance(B6GA) signed various Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with global collaborators, NGMN Alliance (Next Generation Mobile Network Alliance), 5G ACIA (5G Alliance for Connected Industries and Automation), Germany, UKI-FIN (UK- India Future Networks Initiative) & UK TIN (UK Telecom Innovations Networks), 6G Forum (South Korea), 6G Brasil (Brazil). B6GA has already forged alliance with NextG Alliance of ATIS USA, 6G Smart Networks and Services Industry Association (6G IA), European Council and 6G Flagship- Oulu University.

    B6GA has constituted 7 working groups deliberating specific areas of 6G, including spectrum, device technologies, use cases, standards, green and sustainability, RAN and core networks, AI and sensing, and security. Today’s event saw the release of reports by working groups on Applications, Spectrum, 6G Use Cases & Revenue Streams and Green & Sustainability.

    Earlier in the day, Sh Scindia had a breakfast meeting with CEO’s & leaders of prominent telecom companies including BSNL, C-DOT, Bharti Airtel, Reliance Jio, AMD, HFCL, Cisco Qualcomm India, GSMA and Viasat. The Minister urged industry leaders to deliberate on issues related to Data Centres and Home BB/FFTH, AI/Gen AI, TMZ, Spamming, Responsible Behaviour, Social Inclusion and Sustainability with a key objective to form actionable points to take India into the next level of telecommunications.

    In addition, a workshop was separately held with the academicians of 5G Use Case Labs by National Communications Academy, Department of Telecommunication, Ghaziabad and was attended by over 100 participants from premier 100 academic institutions, across the country. Deliberations were held on applications and development of new use cases for 5G in industries, healthcare, smart grids, agriculture & education sectors, etc. and the possible network transformation with emerging technologies, etc.

    The workshop also focussed to disseminate information about the global standards development by ITU and opportunities for the Academicians to participate in ITU Standardization activities. The workshop chaired by Deb Kumar Chakrabarti, DG NCA and panellists included Prof Rohit Budhiraja (IIT Kanpur), Prof Chandra Murthy (IISc), Prof Sunil Jha(IIT D), Prof Dinesh Bharadia (University of California, San Diego), Mr. Thomas Basikola(ITU),Niels Koenig(FIPT, Germany), Mr Bharat Bhatia, CEO, IAFI. Speakers from DoT, RJIO, Niral Networks, Rebaca Technologies and other premier Academic Institutes, Telecom Service Providers & Industries from India and abroad and International Telecommunication Union also participated.

    These discussions and developments are part of the side events of the ongoing WTSA 24 & IMC-24 being held in New Delhi. The event marks the beginning of a new chapter in India’s digital journey, reinforcing the country’s commitment to becoming a global leader in advanced communication technologies.

    About WTSA 2024:

    WTSA 2024, organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), serves as a platform for the development and implementation of global telecommunications standards, uniting regulators, industry leaders, and policymakers to shape the future of communications worldwide.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Escalation of tensions in the Middle East and the likely increase in massive refugee flows to host countries such as Greece – E-001897/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001897/2024/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Vangelis Meimarakis (PPE)

    We have recently been witnessing an intense military escalation in the Middle East, with Lebanon at the epicentre.

    At a time when a ceasefire is looking increasingly uncertain, with a widespread and drawn-out war threatening the region, neighbouring countries such as Greece and Cyprus should be prepared for the likelihood of massive refugee flows.

    In view of this, can the Commission answer the following:

    • 1.How does the Commission plan to help countries such as Greece and Cyprus deal with an imminent mass influx of refugees resulting from events in the Middle East?
    • 2.Will there be renegotiations concerning the Joint EU-Turkey Statement on refugees?
    • 3.Does the Commission have a mechanism in place for sending humanitarian aid to host countries such as Greece, especially in cases where there are mass waves of injured people?

    Submitted: 1.10.2024

    Last updated: 16 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: France: EIB, EIF and Groupe BPCE strengthen partnership to support financing of innovation and energy transition for French small businesses and mid-caps

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    The EIB Group – comprising the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Investment Fund (EIF) – and Groupe BPCE recently signed two financing initiatives totalling over €1 billion to back innovation, research and energy transition projects led by small businesses and mid-caps.

    These initiatives involve two concrete actions: on the one hand the securitisation of an €800 million loan portfolio, which will leverage a total of €1.6 billion in financing for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and mid-caps. On the other hand, the Banques Populaires and Caisses d’Epargne will also allocate €250 million to SME and mid-cap projects related to renewable energies.

    The EIB Group and Groupe BPCE are long-standing partners in supporting investment by French firms. These operations step up their joint efforts to help SMEs and mid-caps finance innovation, research and making the energy transition towards new, more sustainable, lower-carbon growth models. 

    The first operation is a securitisation transaction conducted by the Groupe BPCE on an €800 million portfolio of loans to SMEs and mid-caps. It aims to support their innovation, research and energy transition-related activities. The EIB and EIF have invested €750 million and €50 million, respectively, in this securitisation operation, leveraging a total of €1.6 billion in new loans.

    Securitisation was selected as part of efforts to develop a European savings and investment union – this is an EIB priority, and one that was also highlighted in the recent report by Mario Draghi on the future of European competitiveness.

    The second operation, worth €250 million, supports SME and mid-caps projects in the field of renewable energy. The projects (of up to €50 million) will mainly concern facilities for solar photovoltaics, onshore wind, biomass and agricultural waste treatment for biogas production.

    This operation is fully in line with the French and EU objectives for renewable energy production, and will help achieve EU energy goals and successfully fight global warming. It also supports the EIB’s priority objectives for renewable energy lending, and will contribute to its climate action.

    This specialised funding envelope implements Groupe BPCE’s positive impact approach, which focuses on universally accessible local solutions and is therefore fully in line with its Vision 2030 strategic plan.

    Banque Populaire and Caisse d’Epargne Head of Retail Banking and Insurance Hélène Madar said: “These financing initiatives will enable the Banques Populaires and Caisses d’Epargne to accelerate the funding of their customers’ investment needs in key areas of the energy transition and innovation. It is also a concrete illustration of our close links with the EIB Group as its biggest private sector banking partner in France.” Groupe BPCE Head of Finance Jérôme Terpereau added: “This major joint operation with the EIB Group showcases Groupe BPCE’s financing and securitisation expertise. It will meet the growing needs of our customers, key for competitiveness and sustainable growth.”

    EIB Vice-President Ambroise Fayolle voiced satisfaction at the fact that “the EIB Group and Groupe BPCE are continuing and expanding their partnership to meet the investment needs of French companies, while promoting the energy transition and innovation, which are ever more closely linked. This collaboration is a clear example of the importance of EU efforts to aid SMEs in their green transition, and actively pursues France’s priorities around promoting innovation and sustainable growth.”

    “This securitisation transaction with Groupe BPCE underscores our commitment to supporting investments by French SMEs in innovation, digitalisation and projects fostering climate action and environmental sustainability. We are very pleased to support this initiative,” said EIF Chief Executive Marjut Falkstedt.

    Background information

    About the EIB

    The European Investment Bank is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by the Member States. It makes long-term finance available for sound investments that pursue EU policy goals.

    About the EIF

    The European Investment Fund is part of the EIB Group. Its main goal is to help SMEs access financing. The EIF designs and deploys venture capital, growth capital, guarantee and microfinance instruments specifically targeted at this market segment. Its activities pursue EU objectives promoting innovation, research and development, enterprise creation, growth, and job creation.

    About Groupe BPCE

    Groupe BPCE is the second-largest banking group in France. With its 100 000 staff, the group serves 35 million customers – individuals, professionals, companies, investors and local government bodies – around the world. It operates in the retail banking and insurance fields in France via its two major networks, Banque Populaire and Caisse d’Epargne, along with Banque Palatine and Oney. It also pursues its activities worldwide with the asset and wealth management services provided by Natixis Investment Managers and the wholesale banking expertise of Natixis Corporate & Investment Banking. The group’s financial strength is recognised by four rating agencies with the following preferred senior long-term ratings: Moody’s (A1, stable outlook), Standard & Poor’s (A+, stable outlook), Fitch (A+, stable outlook) and R&I (A+, stable outlook).

    France: EIB, EIF and Groupe BPCE strengthen partnership to support financing of innovation and energy transition for French small businesses and mid-caps
    France: EIB, EIF and Groupe BPCE strengthen partnership to support financing of innovation and energy transition for French small businesses and mid-caps
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    France: EIB, EIF and Groupe BPCE strengthen partnership to support financing of innovation and energy transition for French small businesses and mid-caps
    France: EIB, EIF and Groupe BPCE strengthen partnership to support financing of innovation and energy transition for French small businesses and mid-caps
    ©EIB
    Download original
    France: EIB, EIF and Groupe BPCE strengthen partnership to support financing of innovation and energy transition for French small businesses and mid-caps
    France: EIB, EIF and Groupe BPCE strengthen partnership to support financing of innovation and energy transition for French small businesses and mid-caps
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  • MIL-OSI Video: Governor Talks – Italy: Reviving Europe – The Role of Monetary Policy in a New Era

    Source: International Monetary Fund – IMF (video statements)

    Bank of Italy Governor Fabio Panetta discusses the role of ECB monetary policy in guiding inflation back to target amid high uncertainty and navigating looming transformations. While euro area inflation has declined, services inflation remains elevated. Economic activity has been subdued and uneven, with manufacturing recovery lagging behind other sectors. The conversation will also explore the capital markets union and a potential digital euro launch.

    With Fabio Panetta, Governor of the Bank of Italy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tE78AUg4h_I

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Lebanon, Gaza, Occupied Palestinian Territory & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (16 Oct 2024)

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    -Secretary-General
    -UNIFIL
    -Lebanon
    -Gaza
    -Occupied Palestinian Territory
    -Syria
    -Cyprus
    -Ukraine
    -Sudan
    -South Sudan
    -World food day
    -Briefings today
    -Briefings tomorrow

    SECRETARY-GENERAL
    This morning, the Secretary-General spoke to the Fifth Committee of the General Assembly on the proposed programme budget for 2025. He said that in a context of major global shocks, the United Nations is more needed than ever — with our unmatched convening power.
    He added that the 2025 programme budget proposal reflects the priorities set out in the Pact for the Future, the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations.
    The Secretary-General also said that the Organization will continue to work to cement its reforms. Some of the proposals he highlighted include continued investment in sustainable development; human rights; boosting support for the unprecedented humanitarian challenges in Gaza; advancing peace and security; and strengthening the UN’s capacities in investigation and ethics.

    UNIFIL
    The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon or UNIFIL reports that intense exchanges of fire along and beyond the Blue Line continued over the past 24 hours.
    UNIFIL recorded 58 air violations – the highest number for a 24-hour period since 8 October 2023. UNIFIL also detected 1,279 projectiles across the Blue Line, the third highest since 8 October 2023. 1,208, originated from south of the Blue Line, 71 from the north.
    The mission also reported that indirect fire and firing from close to UN positions caused material damage to UN equipment and facilities near Dayr Amis in Sector West and Shab’a in Sector East. Fortunately, no peacekeepers were wounded in these incidents.
    These incidents continue to put UN peacekeepers, who are serving in southern Lebanon to support the implementation of Security Council Resolution 1701 (2006), at serious risk. The UN reiterates that the safety and security of UN personnel and property must be ensured by all actors on the ground and that the inviolability of UN premises must be respected at all times. 
    Meanwhile, the Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, continues her intensive engagements with all actors to urge an immediate ceasefire and that space be given for a diplomatic solution in line with Security Council Resolution 1701. Following further strikes that resulted in civilian deaths today, near Nabatiyeh, the Special Coordinator emphasized in a statement that violations of international humanitarian law are utterly unacceptable. Civilians and civilian infrastructure must be protected at all times.
    The Secretary-General again condemns the loss of civilian lives.

    LEBANON
    Today, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says that multiple airstrikes were reported in Nabatiyeh and nearby areas in southern Lebanon. So far, according to local authorities, six fatalities have been confirmed, including the mayor of Nabatiyeh, as well as members of the Disaster Risk Management Unit killed in the strike on the municipality building during a relief management meeting.
    The UN’s health partners tell us that the violence continues to push an already overwhelmed health system to the brink, with devasting impacts on medical care amid huge health needs.
    Since 17 September, the World Health Organization says that it has verified 23 attacks on health care.
    It also flags the impact of intense bombardment and insecurity which are forcing a growing number of health facilities to shut down, particularly in the south.
    Out of 207 primary health care centres and dispensaries in conflict-affected areas, 100 are now closed.
    Despite the challenges, WHO and its partners continue to support Lebanese health authorities and to provide medical supplies for trauma care, cholera prevention. WHO also continues to coordinate with the Lebanese Red Cross and hospitals to equip blood banks with adequate supplies and is working with the Ministry of Public Health of Lebanon to establish trauma centres within the existing hospitals.
    On education, Lebanese authorities report that 77 per cent of public schools cannot provide education services due to either being used as collective shelters or being in directly affected areas.
    Meanwhile, the UN and partners continue to support the response, including by providing food, shelter, water, sanitation and hygiene assistance – but they warn that they are facing operational challenges due to the volatile security situation.

    Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=16%20October%202024

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nxpq-u89-e0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Why do I have hay fever? I didn’t have it as a child

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Janet Davies, Respiratory Allergy Stream Co-chair, National Allergy Centre of Excellence; Professor and Head, Allergy Research Group, Queensland University of Technology

    Dragana Gordic/Shutterstock

    Hay fever (or allergic rhinitis) is a long-term inflammatory condition that’s incredibly common. It affects about one-quarter of Australians.

    Symptoms vary but can include sneezing, itchy eyes and a runny or blocked nose. Hay fever can also contribute to sinus and ear infections, snoring, poor sleep and asthma, as well as lower performance at school or work.

    But many people didn’t have hay fever as a child, and only develop symptoms as a teenager or adult.

    Here’s how a combination of genetics, hormones and the environment can lead to people developing hay fever later in life.

    Remind me, what is hay fever?

    Hay fever is caused by the nose, eyes and throat coming into contact with a substance to which a person is allergic, known as an allergen.

    Common sources of outside allergens include airborne grass, weed or tree pollen, and mould spores. Pollen allergens can be carried indoors on clothes, and through open windows and doors.

    Depending on where you live, you may be exposed to a range of pollen types across the pollen season, but grass pollen is the most common trigger of hay fever. In some regions the grass pollen season can extend from spring well into summer and autumn.

    How does hay fever start?

    Hay fever symptoms most commonly start in adolescence or young adulthood. One study found 7% of children aged six had hay fever, but that grew to 44% of adults aged 24.

    Before anyone has hay fever symptoms, their immune system has already been “sensitised” to specific allergens, often allergens of grass pollen. Exposure to these allergens means their immune system has made a particular type of antibody (known as IgE) against them.

    During repeated or prolonged exposure to an allergen source such as pollen, a person’s immune system may start to respond to another part of the same allergen, or another allergen within the pollen. Over time, these new allergic sensitisations can lead to development of hay fever and possibly other conditions, such as allergic asthma.

    Grass pollen is the most common trigger of hay fever.
    winyuu/Shutterstock

    Why do some people only develop hay fever as an adult?

    1. Environmental factors

    Some people develop hay fever as an adult simply because they’ve had more time to become sensitised to specific allergens.

    Migration or moving to a new location can also change someone’s risk of developing hay fever. This may be due to exposure to different pollens, climate and weather, green space and/or air quality factors.

    A number of studies show people who have migrated from low- and middle-income countries to higher-income countries may be at a higher risk of developing hay fever. This may due to local environmental conditions influencing expression of genes that regulate the immune system.

    2. Hormonal factors

    Hormonal changes at puberty may also help drive the onset of hay fever. This may relate to sex hormones, such as oestrogen and progesterone, affecting histamine levels, immune regulation, and the response of cells in the lining of the nose and lower airways.

    3. Genetic factors

    Our genes underpin our risk of hay fever, and whether this and other related allergic disease persists.

    For instance, babies with the skin condition eczema (known as atopic dermatitis) have a three times greater risk of developing hay fever (and asthma) later in life.

    Having a food allergy in childhood is also a risk factor for developing hay fever later in life. In the case of a peanut allergy, that risk is more than 2.5 times greater.

    What are the best options for treatment?

    Depending on where you live, avoiding allergen exposures can be difficult. But pollen count forecasts, if available, can be useful. These can help you decide whether it’s best to stay inside to reduce your pollen exposure, or to take preventative medications.

    You may also find alerts on thunderstorm asthma, where pollens combine with specific weather conditions to trigger breathing difficulties.

    If you have mild, occasional hay fever symptoms, you can take non-drowsy antihistamines, which you can buy at the pharmacy.

    However, for more severe or persistent symptoms, intranasal steroid sprays, or an intranasal spray containing a steroid with antihistamine, are the most effective treatments. However, it is important to use these regularly and correctly.

    Allergen immunotherapy, also known as desensitisation, is an effective treatment for people with severe hay fever symptoms that can reduce the need for medication and avoiding allergens.

    However, it involves a longer treatment course (about three years), usually with the supervision of an allergy or immunology specialist.

    When should people see their doctor?

    It is important to treat hay fever, because symptoms can significantly affect a person’s quality of life. A GP can:

    • recommend treatments for hay fever and can guide you to use them correctly

    • organise blood tests to confirm which allergen sensitisations (if any) are present, and whether these correlate with your symptoms

    • screen for asthma, which commonly exists with hay fever, and may require other treatments

    • arrange referrals to allergy or immunology specialists, if needed, for other tests, such as allergen skin prick testing, or to consider allergen immunotherapy if symptoms are severe.

    More information about hay fever is available from the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy and Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia.

    Janet Davies receives funding from the ARC, NHMRC, Department of Health and Ageing, and MRFF. She has conducted research on diagnostics in collaboration with Abionic SA, Switzerland, supported by the National Foundation for Medical Research Innovation with co-contribution from Abionic. Her research has been supported by in-kind services or materials from Sullivan Nicolaides Pathology (Queensland), Abacus Dx (Australia), Stallergenes (France), Stallergenes Greer (Australia), Swisens (Switzerland), Kenelec (Australia), and ThermoFisher (Sweden), as well as cash or in-kind contributions from Partner Organisations for the NHMRC AusPollen Partnership Project GNT1116107, Australasian Society Clinical Immunology Allergy, Asthma Australia; Stallergenes Australia; Bureau Meteorology, Commonwealth Scientific Industrial Research Organisation, Federal Office of Climate and Meteorology Switzerland. QUT owns patents relevant to grass pollen allergy diagnosis (US PTO 14/311944 issued, AU2008/316301 issued) for which Janet Davies is an inventor. She is the Executive Lead, Repository and Discovery Pillar, and Co-Chair Respiratory Allergy Stream for the National Allergy Centre of Excellence.

    Unrelated to this article, Joy Lee has received funding from the Centre of Research Excellence in Treatable Traits in Asthma, Sanofi, Fondazione Menarini and GSK. This funding support was solely used for presenting at educational meetings in asthma and travel grants to attend international meetings and conferences in asthma and allergic diseases. She has been on advisory boards for Tezepelumab (Astra Zeneca). She is affiliated with the National Allergy Centre of Excellence as the co-chair of the Respiratory Allergy Leadership Group.

    – ref. Why do I have hay fever? I didn’t have it as a child – https://theconversation.com/why-do-i-have-hay-fever-i-didnt-have-it-as-a-child-239409

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Your Dog’s Care Is Our Business

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Natalie Thorpe and Cllr Paul Oldham pictured with four-legged friends.

    Highland Opportunity (Investments) Limited HOIL has recently provided Inverness Dog Daycare Ltd with loan funding towards the purchase of an existing dog care business based in the Carse Industrial Estate in Inverness.

    HOIL, The Highland Council’s business loan company, supports Highland based businesses and encourages applications from all business sectors, including community organisations. Interested businesses benefit from straightforward loan conditions and a tailored offer to support their project.  HOIL has financially supported more than 1,200 local start-up businesses, community organisations and growth projects within the Highland Business community since it was established in 1986.

    Inverness Dog Daycare Ltd approached HOIL for a start-up loan to purchase and expand a licenced dog daycare centre in Inverness. The new owner has growth aspirations for the business and aims to double the availability of dog care provision, as well as introduce new services.  A pick-up and drop-off service will be available to transport dogs from their homes to the daycare centre.  The unit will also be available for use by third party dog trainers, behaviourists and various groups for rental in the evenings and weekends. The business will also hold “dog parties” at the weekend where people are invited to join and allow their dog off lead and the freedom to play with other dogs in a safe and secure area. These parties may be size, age or breed specific.

    Natalie Thorpe, who currently runs her own dog walking business on a part time basis, was looking to expand her current operations. On hearing that Playful Paws Ltd was up for sale she saw this as an opportunity to achieve her business aspirations. Natalie, who is the sole director of Inverness Dog Daycare Ltd, has taken over the lease of the business premises from The Highland Council and is excited to provide a safe and secure environment for dogs to be looked after during the day, with support from existing experienced employees.

    Councillor Paul Oldham, Chair of HOIL said: “Inverness Dog Daycare is a prime example of the sort of business we are keen to help, and indeed one I might use myself for Skye, our border collie. It is also a particular pleasure when we are supporting young entrepreneurs as we are keen to encourage people to stay in the Highlands rather than heading south to find opportunities.

    “HOIL’s accessible and affordable business finance helps promote business across the area, both to begin and expand. It is an important part of the Council’s aim to keep business vibrant and growing in the Highlands.”

    Natalie Thorpe Director of Inverness Dog Day Care Ltd said: “At Inverness Dog Daycare we provide a fun, safe and secure environment for dogs to play and rest during the day. We are a team of experienced dog handlers and always ensure the dogs’ health and wellbeing are being put first, whilst still having a great time.  We have purchased a well-established dog daycare business in Inverness and could not have done this without financing from HOIL.  The process of obtaining financing was straight forward and well guided by the team at HOIL.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The cumulative overall exports during April -September 2024 is estimated at USD 393.22Billion, as compared to USD 375Billion in April-September 2023, with an estimated growth of 4.86%.

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Ministry of Commerce & Industry

    The cumulative overall exports during April -September 2024 is estimated at USD 393.22Billion, as compared to USD 375Billion in April-September 2023, with an estimated growth of 4.86%.

    The cumulative value of merchandise exports during April-September 2024 was USD 213.22 Billion, as compared to USD 211.08 Billion during April-September 2023, registering a positive growth of 1.02%.

    Non-petroleum & Non-Gems & Jewellery exports registered an increase of 9.14% from USD 24.76 Billion in September 2023 to USD 27.03 Billion in September 2024.

    Major drivers of merchandise exports growth in September 2024 include Engineering Goods, Organic & Inorganic Chemicals, Plastic & Linoleum, Drugs & Pharmaceuticals and RMG of all Textiles.

    Engineering Goods exports increased by 10.55% from USD 8.89 Billion in September 2023 to USD 9.82 Billion in September 2024.

    Organic & Inorganic Chemicals exports increased by 11.21% from USD 2.12 Billion in September 2023 to USD 2.36 Billion in September 2024.

    Plastic & Linoleum exports increased by 28.32% from USD 0.62 Billion in September 2023 to USD 0.79 Billion in September 2024.

    Drugs & Pharmaceuticals exports increased by 7.22% from USD 2.39 Billion in September 2023 to USD 2.57 Billion in September 2024.

    RMG of all Textiles exports increased by 17.30% from USD 0.95 Billion in September 2023 to USD 1.11 Billion in September 2024.

    Posted On: 16 OCT 2024 6:10PM by PIB Delhi

    India’s total exports (Merchandise and Services combined) for September 2024* is estimated at USD 65.19 Billion, registering a positive growth of 3.76 percent vis-à-vis September 2023.Total imports (Merchandise and Services combined) for September 2024* is estimated at USD 71.68 Billion, registering a positive growth of 3.79 percent vis-à-vis September 2023.

    Table 1: Trade during September 2024*

     

     

    September 2024

    (USD Billion)

    September 2023

    (USD Billion)

    Merchandise

    Exports

    34.58

    34.41

    Imports

    55.36

    54.49

    Services*

    Exports

    30.61

    28.42

    Imports

    16.32

    14.58

    Total Trade

    (Merchandise +Services) *

    Exports

    65.19

    62.83

    Imports

    71.68

    69.06

    Trade Balance

    -6.49

    -6.23

    * Note: The latest data for services sector released by RBI is for August2024. The data for September 2024 is an estimation, which will be revised based on RBI’s subsequent release. (ii) Data for April-September 2023 and April-June 2024 has been revised on pro-rata basis using quarterly balance of payments data.

    Fig 1: Total Trade during September2024*

     

    India’s total exports during April-September2024* is estimated at USD 393.22 Billion registering a positive growth of 4.86 percent. Total imports during April-September 2024* is estimated at USD 448.05 Billion registering a growth of 6.89 percent.

    Table 2: Trade during April-September 2024*

     

     

    April-September 2024

    (USD Billion)

    April-September 2023

    (USD Billion)

    Merchandise

    Exports

    213.22

    211.08

    Imports

    350.66

    330.32

    Services*

    Exports

    180.00

    163.92

    Imports

    97.39

    88.86

    Total Trade

    (Merchandise +Services) *

    Exports

    393.22

    375.00

    Imports

    448.05

    419.18

    Trade Balance

    -54.83

    -44.18

     

    Fig 2: Total Trade during April-September 2024*    

          

    MERCHANDISE TRADE

    • Merchandise exports during September 2024 were USD 34.58 Billion as compared to USD 34.41 Billion in September 2023.
    • Merchandise imports during September 2024 were USD 55.36 Billion as compared to USD 54.49 Billion in September 2023.

     

    Fig 3: Merchandise Trade during September 2024

    • Merchandise exports during April-September 2024 were USD 213.22 Billion as compared to USD 211.08Billion during April-September 2023.
    • Merchandise imports during April-September 2024 were USD 350.66 Billion as compared to USD 330.32 Billion during April-September 2023.
    • Merchandise trade deficit during April-September 2024 was USD 137.44 Billion as compared to USD 119.24 Billion during April-September 2023.

    Fig4: Merchandise Trade during April-September 2024

    • Non-petroleum and non-gems & jewellery exports in September 2024 were USD 27.03Billion compared to USD 24.76Billion in September 2023.
    • Non-petroleum, non-gems & jewellery (gold, silver & precious metals) imports in September 2024 were USD 36.49Billion compared to USD 34.21Billion in September 2023.

     

    Table 3: Trade excluding Petroleum and Gems & Jewellery during September 2024

     

    September 2024

    (USD Billion)

    September 2023

    (USD Billion)

    Non- petroleum exports

    29.85

    27.95

    Non- petroleum imports

    42.82

    40.48

    Non-petroleum & Non-Gems & Jewellery exports

    27.03

    24.76

    Non-petroleum & Non-Gems & Jewellery imports

    36.49

    34.21

    Note: Gems & Jewellery Imports include Gold, Silver & Pearls, precious & Semi-precious stones

     

    Fig 5: Trade excluding Petroleum and Gems & Jewellery during September 2024

    • Non-petroleum and non-gems & jewellery exports in April-September 2024 were USD 162.77 Billion, compared to USD 153.71 Billion in April-September 2023.
    • Non-petroleum, non-gems & jewellery (gold, silver & precious metals) imports in April-September 2024 were USD 222.72 Billion, compared to USD 211.34 Billion in April-September 2023.

    Table 4: Trade excluding Petroleum and Gems & Jewellery during April-September 2024

     

    April-September 2024

    (USD Billion)

    April-September 2023

    (USD Billion)

    Non- petroleum exports

    176.68

    169.33

    Non- petroleum imports

    261.75

    246.36

    Non-petroleum &Non Gems& Jewellery exports

    162.77

    153.71

    Non-petroleum & Non Gems & Jewellery imports

    222.72

    211.34

    Note: Gems & Jewellery Imports include Gold, Silver & Pearls, precious & Semi-precious stones

    Fig 6: Trade excluding Petroleum and Gems & Jewellery during April-September 2024

     

    SERVICES TRADE

    • The estimated value of services export for September 2024* is USD 30.61 Billion as compared to USD 28.42Billion in September 2023.
    • The estimated value of services imports for September 2024* is USD 16.32 Billion as compared to USD 14.58Billion in September 2023.

     

    Fig 7: Services Trade during September2024*

     

    • The estimated value of service exports during April-September 2024* is USD 180 Billion as compared to USD 163.92 Billion in April-September 2023.
    • The estimated value of service imports during April-September 2024* is USD 97.39 Billion as compared to USD 88.86 Billion in April-September 2023.
    • The services trade surplus for April-September 2024* is USD 82.61 Billion as compared to USD 75.06 Billion in April-September 2023.

    Fig 8: Services Trade during April-September 2024*

    • Exports of Coffee (74.75%), Tobacco (50.9%), Handicrafts Excl. Hand Made Carpet (48.09%), Plastic & Linoleum (28.32%), Spices (26.66%), Rice (24.93%), Rmg Of All Textiles (17.3%), Jute Mfg. Including Floor Covering (16.45%), Cereal Preparations & Miscellaneous Processed Items (15.25%), Carpet (14.93%), Oil Seeds (14.73%), Oil Meals (13%), Man-Made Yarn/Fabs./Made-Ups Etc. (11.41%), Organic & Inorganic Chemicals (11.21%), Engineering Goods (10.55%), Leather & Leather Products (8.86%), Fruits & Vegetables (8.38%), Electronic Goods (7.89%), Meat, Dairy & Poultry Products (7.85%), Drugs & Pharmaceuticals (7.22%), Tea (5.73%), Cotton Yarn/Fabs./Made-Ups, Handloom Products Etc. (3.48%) and Cashew (2.23%) record positive growth during September 2024 over the corresponding month of last year.
    • Imports of Dyeing/Tanning/Colouring Mtrls. (-25.92%), Vegetable Oil  (-23.24%), Pearls, Precious & Semi-Precious Stones (-21.62%), Leather & Leather Products (-16.62%), Newsprint (-13.62%), Petroleum, Crude & Products (-10.44%), Artificial Resins, Plastic Materials, Etc. (-8.76%), Coal, Coke & Briquettes, Etc. (-2.14%), Textile Yarn Fabric, Made-Up Articles (-1.8%) and Transport Equipment (-0.38%) record negative growth during September 2024 over the corresponding month of last year.
    • Services exports is estimated to grow by 9.81percent during April-September 2024* over April-September 2023.
    • Top 5 export destinations, in terms of change in value, exhibiting positive growth in September 2024 vis a vis September 2023 are Netherland (38.6%), U Arab Emts (23.75%), U S A (4.98%), Brazil (41.98%) and Japan (36.35%).
    • Top 5 export destinations, in terms of change in value, exhibiting positive growth in April-September 2024 vis a vis April-September 2023 are Netherland (36.73%), U S A (5.6%), U Arab Emts (11.45%), Malaysia (27.91%) and U K (12.4%).
    • Top 5 import sources, in terms of change in value, exhibiting growth in September 2024 vis a vis September 2023 are U Arab Emts (49.22%), China P Rp (14.46%), Germany (32.52%), Japan (25.72%) and Taiwan (38.17%)
    • Top 5 import sources, in terms of change in value, exhibiting growth in April-September 2024 vis a vis April-September2023 are U Arab Emts (52.01%), China P Rp (11.52%), Russia (5.73%), Taiwan (39.97%) and Oman (51.52%).

    *Link for Quick Estimates

    ***

    AD/VN

     

    (Release ID: 2065486)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Sahitya Akademi at Frankfurt International Book Fair

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 16 OCT 2024 6:44PM by PIB Delhi

    Sahitya Akademi, India’s premier literary institution, is participating in the 75th edition of the prestigious Frankfurt International Book Fair to be held from 16 to 20 October 2024 in Frankfurt, Germany. Frankfurter Buchmesse, the world’s largest trade fair for books, brings best publishers and authors from all over the world. In this edition, Sahitya Akademi will be displaying 100 of its titles and will be engaging the best publishers from around the globe to exchange the permissions. This effort is part of Sahitya Akademi’s commitment to promote Indian literature beyond the shores of India. Apart from professional publishing engagements, Sahitya Akademi will be organizing three literary events at the fair. On 16 October 2024, there will be a panel discussion on the “Literary Heritage of India” featuring eminent writers and scholars, Prof. Badri Narayan, Prof Dhananjay Singh and Sri Vishwas Patil. On the evening of 16th October 2024, there will be a “Meet the Author” programme with Sri Vishwas Patil. Both the events will be moderated by Dr K. Sreenivasarao, Secretary, Sahitya Akademi. Prof Badri Narayan is an eminent poet and Director and Professor at the G.B. Pant Institute of Social Science, Allahabad, Prof Dhananjay Singh is the Member Secretary of ICSSR and Sri Vishwas Patil is an eminent Marathi writer and scholar. On 17th a Meet the Author is scheduled with Prof. Badri Narayan, moderated by Secretary Sahitya Akademi. Sahitya Akademi sends Indian writers’ delegations to attend the fair whenever Akademi takes part in the book fair to enable them to have the firsthand exposure of various literatures from around the world and interact with the best minds from various countries.

    ***

    BY/SKT

    (Release ID: 2065518) Visitor Counter : 34

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: New research shows most space rocks crashing into Earth come from a single source

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Trevor Ireland, Professor, School of the Environment, The University of Queensland

    Makarov Konstantin/Shutterstock

    The sight of a fireball streaking across the sky brings wonder and excitement to children and adults alike. It’s a reminder that Earth is part of a much larger and incredibly dynamic system.

    Each year, roughly 17,000 of these fireballs not only enter Earth’s atmosphere, but survive the perilous journey to the surface. This gives scientists a valuable chance to study these rocky visitors from outer space.

    Scientists know that while some of these these meteorites come from the Moon and Mars, the majority come from asteroids. But two separate studies published in Nature today have gone a step further. The research was led by Miroslav Brož from Charles University in the Czech Republic, and Michaël Marsset from the European Southern Observatory in Chile.

    The papers trace the origin of most meteorites to just a handful of asteroid breakup events – and possibly even individual asteroids. In turn, they build our understanding of the events that shaped the history of the Earth – and the entire solar system.

    What is a meteorite?

    Only when a fireball reaches Earth’s surface is it called a meteorite. They are commonly designated as three types: stony meteorites, iron meteorites, and stony-iron meteorites.

    Stony meteorites come in two types.

    The most common are the chondrites, which have round objects inside that appear to have formed as melt droplets. These comprise 85% of all meteorites found on Earth.

    Most are known as “ordinary chondrites”. They are then divided into three broad classes – H, L and LL – based on the iron content of the meteorites and the distribution of iron and magnesium in the major minerals olivine and pyroxene. These silicate minerals are the mineral building blocks of our solar system and are common on Earth, being present in basalt.

    “Carbonaceous chondrites” are a distinct group. They contain high amounts of water in clay minerals, and organic materials such as amino acids. Chondrites have never been melted and are direct samples of the dust that originally formed the solar system.

    The less common of the two types of stony meteorites are the so-called “achondrites”. These do not have the distinctive round particles of chondrites, because they experienced melting on planetary bodies.

    An iron-nickel meteorite found near Fort Stockton, Texas, in 1952.
    JPL/Smithsonian Institution

    The asteroid belt

    Asteroids are the primary sources of meteorites.

    Most asteroids reside in a dense belt between Mars and Jupiter. The asteroid belt itself consists of millions of asteroids swept around and marshalled by the gravitational force of Jupiter.

    The interactions with Jupiter can perturb asteroid orbits and cause collisions. This results in debris, which can aggregate into rubble pile asteroids. These then take on lives of their own.

    It is asteroids of this type which the recent Hayabusa and Osiris-REx missions visited and returned samples from. These missions established the connection between distinct asteroid types and the meteorites that fall to Earth.

    S-class asteroids (akin to stony meteorites) are found on the inner regions of the belt, while C-class carbonaceous asteroids (akin to carbonaceous chondrites) are more commonly found in the outer regions of the belt.

    But, as the two Nature studies show, we can relate a specific meteorite type to its specific source asteroid in the main belt.

    Artist’s graphic of the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter.
    NASA/McREL

    One family of asteroids

    The two new studies place the sources of ordinary chondrite types into specific asteroid families – and most likely specific asteroids. This work requires painstaking back-tracking of meteoroid trajectories, observations of individual asteroids, and detailed modelling of the orbital evolution of parent bodies.

    The study led by Miroslav Brož reports that ordinary chondrites originate from collisions between asteroids larger than 30 kilometres in diameter that occurred less than 30 million years ago.

    The Koronis and Massalia asteroid families provide appropriate body sizes and are in a position that leads to material falling to Earth, based on detailed computer modelling. Of these families, asteroids Koronis and Karin are likely the dominant sources of H chondrites. Massalia (L) and Flora (LL) families are by far the main sources of L- and LL-like meteorites.

    The study led by Michaël Marsset further documents the origin of L chondrite meteorites from Massalia.

    It compiled spectroscopic data – that is, characteristic light intensities which can be fingerprints of different molecules – of asteroids in the belt between Mars and Jupiter. This showed that the composition of L chondrite meteorites on Earth is very similar to that of the Massalia family of asteroids.

    The scientists then used computer modelling to show an asteroid collision that occurred roughly 470 million years ago formed the Massalia family. Serendipitously, this collision also resulted in abundant fossil meteorites in Ordovician limestones in Sweden.

    In determining the source asteroid body, these reports provide the foundations for missions to visit the asteroids responsible for the most common outerspace visitors to Earth. In understanding these source asteroids, we can view the events that shaped our planetary system.

    Trevor Ireland receives funding from the Australian Research Council for research into the samples returned by the Hayabusa and Osiris-REx missions. He is a past President of the Meteoritical Society, the international organisation responsible for classification and cataloguing meteorites.

    – ref. New research shows most space rocks crashing into Earth come from a single source – https://theconversation.com/new-research-shows-most-space-rocks-crashing-into-earth-come-from-a-single-source-241455

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Upgrade your Smart Home Tech to the Latest Samsung Appliances and Claim Up to £350 Cashback

    Source: Samsung

     

     
    London, UK. October 16, 2024 – Samsung Electronics UK Ltd is offering unmissable cashback offers on selected Samsung products across the home this autumn.
     
    Until November 4, 2024, customers in the UK and Ireland can claim back up to £350/€415 when purchasing selected Samsung products[1] including ovens, refrigerators, washing machines and dishwashers. The offer is available from Samsung.com/uk/ or from participating retailers including Currys, Harvey Normans, John Lewis, and Argos[2].
     
    To add to the incentive, on completing your claim for a qualifying product, customers will be entered into a prize draw to win £2000 towards their energy costs for the next year – a full year’s energy bill based on average energy consumption. The perfect prize with the UK energy price cap having risen from October 1st[3].
     
    There has never been a better time to upgrade across a range of smart home technology that can provide complete control over your home energy consumption. With a host of advancements powered by SmartThings and AI energy saving appliances, it has never been easier to maximise energy savings throughout the home. Each product helps understand you and your household better, adapting to your unique lifestyle and habits to help save time, money, and energy.
     
    With washing machines that can learn your laundry habits, fridges that can plan your weekly meals, and ovens that provide the perfect cook, a selection of Samsung’s unmissable deals include:
     
    Claim £350/ €415 back on Samsung Series 7 Compact Oven (NQ5B7993AAK/U4)
    Claim £200/ €240 back on Samsung Series 8 SpaceMax Smart Large 75cm Fridge Freezer (RB53DG706AS9)
    Claim £350/ €415 back on Family Hub Fridge Freezer (RF65DG9H0ESREU)
    Claim £100/ €120 back on Samsung Series 5 AI Energy 11 KG / 6 KG Washer Dryer with 1400rpm (WD11DG5B15BEEU)
     
    To explore more on the range of exciting offers and see the full terms and conditions, visit https://samsungoffers.claims/sam/autumncashback/en-GB for more details.
     
    Notes to editors
    * A full years energy bill based on average energy consumption.
     
    Purchase by 04/11/2024 from a participating retailer. Claim by visiting https://samsungoffers.claims/sam/autumncashback/en-GB within 90 days of purchase. Max 4 purchases per household and 10 per registered business. Prize winners will be selected at random from all valid claims at the end of the claim period. UK/ROI/CI and IoM 18+ only.
    For a full list of participating retailers visit https://samsungoffers.claims/sam/autumncashback/en-GB
    For further info on the energy price cap, please visit https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/news/changes-energy-price-cap-between-1-october-31-december-2024#:~:text=From%201%20October%20to%2031,last%20year%20(£1%2C834)
    For the full range of products see list below.
     
    Claiming the cashback is simple:
     
    Buy a qualifying Samsung appliance product from a participating retailer between September 4 – November 4, 2024 to be eligible to receive a cashback reward of up to £350.
    Submit your claim within 90 days of the purchase date.
    Samsung will let you know within five working days whether your claim has been approved. You can check its progress anytime by using Track My Claim.
    Once your claim has been approved, we’ll send your cashback to the details provided on your claim form within 45 days. If you are a prize draw winner, we will let you know by email once the draw has taken place on or around 3rd March 2025. You will then need to claim your prize within 14 days of receiving your win notification. Your bonus cashback reward will then be sent to you within 45 days. We’ll let you know once these have been sent.
     
    Customers can choose from a wide range of products including the following:
     
    Cooking
    Cooking Hoods (Serial Numbers: NK24C5703TM/UR, NK36C5703TM/UR)
    Cashback Value: £50

    Warming Draw (Serial Number: NL20T8100WK/UR)
    Cashback Value: £50

    Single Oven
    Series 4 (Serial Numbers: NV7B42205AK/U4, NV7B42503AK/U4, NV7B43205AK/U4, NV7B4355VAK/U4, NV7B45205AS/U4, NV7B45305AK/U4, NV7B45305AS/U4)
    Cashback Value: £75

    Series 5 (Serial Numbers: NV7B5750TAK/U4, NV7B5755SAS/U4, NV7B5775XAK/U4)
    Cashback Value: £125

    Series 6 (Serial Number: NV7B6795JAK/U4)
    Cashback Value: £150

    Series 7 (Serial Number: NV7B7997AAA/U4, NV7B7997AAK/U4)
    Cashback Value: £350

    Compact Oven (Serial Number: NQ5B4353FBK/U4, NQ5B4553FBK/U4, NQ5B5763DBK/U4, NQ5B6753CAK/U4, NQ5B7993AAA/U4, NQ5B7993AAK/U4)
    Cashback Value: Ranges from £75 – £350

    Induction Hob (Serial Numbers: NZ64B4016FK/U1, NZ64B5066KK/U1, NZ64B6056GK/U1, NZ84C5047GK/U1, NZ84C6058GK/U1, NZ84T9747VK/UR, NZ85C6058FK/U1)
    Cashback Value: Ranges from £75 – £125

     
    Dishwashers
    Built in Dishwasher (Serial Number: DW60A8060BB/EU, DW60BG830I00EU)
    Cashback Value: Ranges from £75 – £150

    Freestanding Dishwasher (Serial Number: DW60A8060FS/EU, DW60BG730FSLEU, DW60BG750FSLEU)
    Cashback Value: Ranges from £75 – £150

     
    Laundry
    Tumble Dryer (Serial Numbers: DV90BB7445GES1, DV90BB9445GBS1, DV90BB9445GHS1, DV90BB9545GBS1, DV90T8240SH/S1, DV90T8240SX/S1)
    Cashback Value: £100

    Washer Dryer (Series 5, 6, & 7) ((Serial Numbers: WD11DB7B85GBU1, WD11DB7B85GWU1, WD11DG5B15BBU1, WD11DG5B15BEU1, WD90DG6B85BBU1, WD90DG6B85BEU1)
    Cashback Value: Ranges from £75 – £100

    Washing Machine (Serial Numbers: WW11DB7B94GBU1, WW11DB7B94GEU1, WW11DB8B95GBU1, WW11DB8B95GHU1, WW90DB7U94GBU1, WW90DB7U94GEU1, WW90DB8U95GBU1, WW90DB8U95GHU1
    Cashback Value: Ranges from £75 – £100

     
    Refrigeration
    Built-In Refrigeration (Serial Numbers: BRB26705DWW/EU, BRR29723EWW/EU, BRZ22720EWW/EU)
    Cashback Value: £150

    Combi (Serial Numbers: RB34C652DWW/EU, RB38C605DB1/EU, RB38C606DS9/EU, RB38C636DB1/EU, RB38C655DS9/EU, RB38C7B6BB1/EU, RB53DG703CS9EU, RB53DG703ES9EU, RB53DG706AS9EU, RL38C776ASR/EU)
    Cashback Value: Ranges from £100 – £200

    Bespoke Series 9 French-style (Serial Numbers RF65DB970E22EU, RF65DG960EB1EU, RF65DG960ESREU, RF65DG9H0EB1EU, RF65DG9H0ESREU
    Cashback Value: £350

    Series 9 SpaceMax (RH69CG895DB1EU, RH69CG895DS9EU)
    Cashback Value: £250

    One Door Fridge/Freezer (RR39C7BB7WW/EU, RZ32C7BD6WW/EU)
    Cashback Value: £150

    American Style SBS Fridge Freezers (RS66DG813CS9EU, RS66DG815CB1EU, RS68A884CB1/EU, RS68A884CSL/EU, RS68CG883DB1EU, RS68CG883DS9EU
    Cashback Value: £200

     
     
     
    [1]Purchase by 04/11/2024 from a participating retailer. Claim by visiting https://samsungoffers.claims/sam/autumncashback/en-GB within 90 days of purchase. Max 4 purchases per household and 10 per registered business. Prize winners will be selected at random from all valid claims at the end of the claim period. UK/ROI/CI and IoM 18+ only.
    [2]For a full list of participating retailers visit https://samsungoffers.claims/sam/autumncashback/en-GB.
    [3] For further info on the energy price cap, please visit https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/news/changes-energy-price-cap-between-1-october-31-december-2024#:~:text=From%201%20October%20to%2031,last%20year%20(£1%2C834).

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Colombia: Progress and Challenges in the Peace Agreement -Security Council Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    The Head of the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia (UNVMIC), Carlos Ruiz Massieu, today (15 Oct) told the Security Council that “historic progress has been made” in the implementation of the peace agreement, “but much remains to be done.” He welcomed the rapid response plan, or “Plan de Choque” being developed by the Minister of the Interior and other stakeholders.

    The plan, Ruiz Massieu said, “is a new instrument that should serve to energize implementation.”

    The UNVMIC Chief said, “we remain encouraged by the Government’s commitment to advancing the rural reform chapter of the Agreement – provisions that have a transformative potential, attacking structural causes of the conflict, but which had lagged in their implementation in previous years.”

    He said that as a result, “more land is being distributed and formalized for those in need, bringing the promised benefits of peace to landless peasants and those dispossessed of it during the conflict.”

    Ruiz Massieu said, “in some territories, signatories to the Agreement and social leaders continue to be the target of violence, pressure and threats from armed actors fighting for territorial control and strategic routes linked to illicit economies.”

    He noted that since the beginning of the reintegration process, five former territorial areas for training and reintegration (TATRs) have had to be relocated for these reasons

    Ruiz Massieu said, “the difficult situation in some areas continues to impact the lives of communities that are caught in the crossfire and subjected to condemnable phenomena such as the recruitment of minors, displacement and confinement.”

    Colombia’s Foreign Minister Luis Gilberto Murillo for his part said, “with the firm commitment to fulfil what has been agreed and to territorialize peace, we have developed a new strategic framework for peace, where effective and comprehensive compliance with the 2016 agreement becomes an inescapable requirement, unavoidable for the sustainability of strategic proposals surrounding territorial transformation.”

    On women’s participation in negotiation and peacebuilding, he said it was “not only is a question of justice, but it is crucial to ensure stronger and more durable agreements.”

    For this reason, he continued, “the Colombian government has formulated and is implementing a feminist foreign policy linked to the precepts of the women, peace and security agenda. Included in Security Council Resolution 1325”

    Outside the Council, Switzerland’s representative Riccarda Christiana Chanda read a statement on behalf of Ecuador, France, Guyana, Japan, Malta, the Republic of Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States on Women Peace and Security.

    Chanda said, “during a visit of the Security Council to Colombia in February of this year, we were able to engage meaningfully with former combatants, victim representatives, women’s organizations, indigenous and Afro-Colombian communities to discuss the progress made and remaining obstacles in the comprehensive implementation of the peace agreement. And what we have witnessed over and over again, was the urgent call for improved security guarantees, equitable land distribution, and the successful social, political, and economic reintegration of former combatants as well as the crucial implementation of gender provisions and the ethnic chapter of the Peace Agreement.”

    UNVMIC was established by the UN Security Council pursuant to resolution 2366 (2017), adopted unanimously on 10 July 2017. The resolution followed a joint request for UN support from the Government of Colombia and the then Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia–People’s Army (FARC-EP).

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iaI6rgXNDS4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ESA orders 6 additional radar-based satellites to Thales Alenia Space for IRIDE Earth observation constellation

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: ESA orders 6 additional radar-based satellites to Thales Alenia Space for IRIDE Earth observation constellation

    This new batch of radar satellites will also be based on the innovative and scalable NIMBUS (New Italian Micro Bus) platform

    • This new contract strengthens Thales Alenia Space’s engineering and industrial capabilities in making innovative and flexible observation satellites
    • IRIDE to provide dual Earth observation capabilities to monitor the Italian territory and Europe from space
    • With this new contract, Thales Alenia Space will build a total of 13 satellites for IRIDE constellation: 12 small-sized satellites based on SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar) technology and 1 satellite based on optical technology.

    Milan, October 16th, 2024 –Thales Alenia Space, a joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), has signed a 107-Million-Euro contract with the European Space Agency (ESA) for the supply of 6 additional radar-based satellites dedicated to the Italian Earth observation constellation, IRIDE.

    This second batch of satellites, as the previous batch of six, will rely on the innovative and scalable NIMBUS (New Italian Micro Bus) platform. Built by Thales Alenia Space, the high-performance NIMBUS will be produced rapidly and is designed for high-revisit and high-capacity constellations in addition to very high throughput.

    IRIDE ©Thales Alenia Space

    For the Italian Earth Observation Constellation IRIDE, Thales Alenia Space will build a total of 13 satellites: 12 small-sized satellites based on SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar) technology and 1 satellite based on optical technology.

    “I would like to thank the European and Italian Space Agencies for once again entrusting Thales Alenia Space’s competences and expertise,” said Giampiero Di Paolo, Senior Vice President Observation, Exploration and Navigation for Thales Alenia Space. “Leveraging our experience onbaord major Earth observation programs, we are ready to reinforce our capabilities in the small satellite segment. Based on a series of sensing instruments and technologies, the IRIDE constellation will range from microwave imaging with radar sensors to optical imaging at various spatial resolutions and in different frequency ranges, making it a cutting-edge space program in Earth Observation. The radar technology on board this program will be a crucial pillar of our ALL-IN-ONE Earth observation solution, which effectively combines optical and radar small satellites to ensure high revisit frequency and control for near real-time monitoring.”

    About IRIDE Earth observation constellation:

    IRIDE is one of the most important European space programs in the field of Earth Observation. It is a government project funded as part of Italy’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR), complemented by funding from the National Integration Plan (PNC). IRIDE is a constellation of satellites, operational by 2026, managed by the European Space Agency (ESA) in conjunction with the Italian Space Agency (ASI).

    IRIDE features a hybrid constellation of different satellites with dedicated Earth observation sensors; this end-to-end system comprises a series of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite sub-constellations, ground infrastructures (downstream) and services dedicated to the Italian Public Administration.

    Thales Alenia Space’s responsibility in the program:

    Thales Alenia Space will contribute to the achievement of this innovative constellation of satellites that feature sophisticated operating modes to support high revisit rates, providing data that can be integrated with that from other existing or future programs and infrastructures, including COSMO-SkyMed Second Generation and Prisma, as well as Europe’s vast Copernicus Earth observation and protection program.

    Thales Alenia Space will further contribute to the constellation by supplying an optical satellite with a performance tailored to its needs. Built on the platform NIMBUS, the optical payload is developed by the Italian companies Media Lario and TSD-space, specialized in the creation of instruments and electronics for space.

    The satellites will be built in Italy under the responsibility of Thales Alenia Space and thanks to the contribution of the entire supply chain of SMEs in the space sector. They will provide valuable data not only to researchers studying the evolution of the environmental conditions of Italy but also to the Civil Protection and other Public Administrations to protect coasts, monitor critical infrastructures, air quality and weather conditions. IRIDE’s data will be of paramount importance. This data will allow the development of commercial applications by start-ups, small and medium-sized enterprises and industries in the geospatial sector.

    ABOUT THALES ALENIA SPACE

    Drawing on over 40 years of experience and a unique combination of skills, expertise and cultures, Thales Alenia Space delivers cost-effective solutions for telecommunications, navigation, Earth observation, environmental management, exploration, science and orbital infrastructures. Governments and private industry alike count on Thales Alenia Space to design satellite-based systems that provide anytime, anywhere connections and positioning, monitor our planet, enhance management of its resources and explore our Solar System and beyond. Thales Alenia Space sees space as a new horizon, helping to build a better, more sustainable life on Earth. A joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), Thales Alenia Space also teams up with Telespazio to form the parent companies’ Space Alliance, which offers a complete range of services. Thales Alenia Space posted consolidated revenues of approximately €2.2 billion in 2023. Thales Alenia Space has around 8,600 employees in 9 countries, with 16 sites in Europe and a plant in the US.

    http://www.thalesaleniaspace.com

    THALES ALENIA SPACE – PRESS CONTACTS

    Tarik Lahlou
    Tel: +33 (0)6 87 95 89 56
    tarik.lahlou@thalesaleniaspace.com

    Catherine des Arcis
    Tel: +33 (0)6 78 64 63 97
    catherine.des-arcis@thalesaleniaspace.com

    Cinzia Marcanio

    Tel.: +39 (0)6 415 126 85
    cinzia.marcanio@thalesaleniaspace.com

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: German Armed Forces receive final Ground Alerter 10 sense and warn camp protection system

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: German Armed Forces receive final Ground Alerter 10 sense and warn camp protection system

    • On 16 October 2024, Thales officially handed over the final commissioned Ground Alerter (GA) 10 radar, from a total order of 17 GA 10 warning and alerting systems delivered to the German Armed Forces in Koblenz.
    • The GA10 is a portable C-RAM (Counter – Rocket, Artillery, Mortar) alert and impact zone early warning system for camp protection as well as dismounted operations in convoy protection
    • The radar system has already proven itself in asymmetric scenarios and saved numerous lives in the past.

    DITZINGEN / KOBLENZ — [16 October 2024] — In a ceremony held today at its Koblenz site, Thales handed over the final radar of a total of 17 Ground Alerter 10 (GA 10) warning and alerting systems for protection against indirect fire (WASI) to the Bundeswehr. In February 2021, the company was awarded the contract by the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) to supply an initial five systems, with the option for further systems, following a competitive tendering process. The contract, which in addition to the delivery of the systems also includes training, documentation and an initial supply of spare parts, was completed today with the handover of the last system on time and on budget and to the satisfaction of all parties involved.

    Eric Huber, Vice President Surface Radars Thales, commented “We are very pleased with this successful project completion on time and on budget, demonstrating Thales capabilities in camp protection and warning alerts. The GA10 contributes significantly to the protection of German soldiers during their important missions at home and abroad. Our Ground Alerter 10, manufactured in Ditzingen as a European military off-the-shelf product, draws on strong radar expertise and operational experience, and has already saved many lives in the past, and we are particularly proud of that.”

    The Ground Alerter 10 is a portable counter rocket, artillery and mortar (C-RAM) system for Force Protection. It is combat proven in various missions, such as convoy protection, camp protection and has saved many lives in the recent past. Its integrated alert network warns military personnel of missile and mortar threats by generating an acoustic and visual alert at the estimated impact point area. This takes place as soon as the trajectory indicates an imminent impact in the respective safety area and the system simultaneously provides reliable data on the firing position at an early stage to facilitate necessary countermeasures. To date, various GA10s are already in use to protect UN camps in North East and Eastern Mali, as well as by the French Forces in several out-of-area camps

    Easy to set-up, operate and transport, the GA10 is well suited for deployment in dismounted operations for convoy protection. Two people can accomplish en-camp/de-camp and only one person is required for system initialization and monitoring. Being the lightest system of its class and completely portable (only 1- or 2-men loads), re-deployment of the system is possible with protected vehicles or by helicopter. Mandatory for mobile operations, the GA10 prime power consumption only amounts to 350 Watts and facilitates battery-only supply.

    Expertise in radar technology

    At Thales Germany’s Baden-Württemberg site in Ditzingen near Stuttgart, tried-and-tested, highly mobile radars for ground and coastal surveillance are developed and manufactured that are used by armed and security forces worldwide for stationary or mobile protection of complex environments.

    Note to the editors

    The Ground Alerter 10 is a complete sense and warn system consisting of a UHF radar, an integrated alarm network with multiple wireless and wired alarm devices and an operating unit (ruggedized laptop).

    The radar system consists of the main elements:

    • Antenna (incl. GPS positioning system) with 6 m telescopic mast
    • electronic radar frequency control unit (RFC)
    • electronic signal processing unit (SPC)

    The power supply is also possible with a battery system. This consists of two 6-packs (6-fold battery arrangement) of Li-Ion batteries of the internationally used type BB2590 in a transport box that also serves as a charging station.

    With a corresponding interconnection (J-unit), the battery boxes can be alternately replaced during operation. The set of two boxes is sufficient to operate the radar for > 2×4 hours. The system is operated with a ruggedized laptop with a European keyboard via the VENUS operating software. The integrated alarm network selectively generates an audible and visual alarm only in the area of the point of impact.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Christine Lagarde: Lessons from Ljubljana in uncertain times

    Source: European Central Bank

    Speech by Christine Lagarde, President of the ECB, at the official dinner of Banka Slovenije in Ljubljana, Slovenia

    Ljubljana, 16 October 2024

    It is a pleasure to be here this evening.

    Not far from here, tucked away in the National and University Library, lie copies of the Abecedarium and the Catechism. These two texts, written by the religious reformer Primož Trubar in 1550, were the first ever books to be printed in Slovenian.[1]

    At a time when German was the language of the ruling classes, Trubar’s pioneering act was fundamental in helping to establish the national identity of Slovenians.[2]

    Today, his portrait graces the €1 coin in Slovenia, framed by the famous words found in the Catechism, “Stati inu Obstati” – “to stand and withstand”.[3]

    It is telling that both books – one a primer for the Slovenian language, the other guidelines for religious observance – were designed to teach, for there is much that Europe can learn from Slovenia in the uncertain world we now face.

    The global order we knew is fading. Open trade is being replaced with fragmented trade, multilateral rules with state-sponsored competition and stable geopolitics with conflict.

    Europe had invested considerably in the old order, so this transition is challenging for us. As the most open of the major economies, we are more exposed than others.

    So, in this new landscape, we too must learn “to stand and withstand”. And we can do so by drawing on two valuable lessons from Ljubljana.

    Opportunity in times of uncertainty

    The first lesson is that uncertainty can create opportunity.

    While many in Europe are anxious about the future, Slovenians are no strangers to uncertainty.

    Within a single generation, Slovenia made a success of the extraordinarily difficult transition from a planned economy to a market economy. Policymakers defied the odds by implementing tough structural reforms to first join the EU and, later, the euro area.

    Today, Slovenia is a success story. It is a developed, stable and high-income economy, with the highest GDP per capita at purchasing power parity of central and eastern European countries (CEECs).

    The nation’s success owes much to the creativity and vigour of its people and their innate ability to seize economic turning points and transform them into opportunities.

    For example, when Slovenia joined the EU, it was exposed to greater levels of competition from other Member States in the economic bloc.

    But Slovenia quickly capitalised on its skilled workforce to develop a new business model based on deep integration in the Single Market. Today, every single car produced in Europe has at least one component that is made in Slovenia.[4]

    For Europe, the changes in the global economy today represent a similar turning point. But if we approach it with the right spirit, I believe it can be an opportunity for renewal.

    A less favourable global economy can push us to complete our domestic market. Fiercer foreign competition can encourage us to develop new technologies. More volatile geopolitics can drive us to become more energy secure and self-sufficient in our supply chains.

    For Slovenia, the transformation of the automotive supply chain will be a particular challenge. But the economy is already adapting. For example, in July this year Slovenia secured a major investment in domestic electric vehicle production.[5]

    For many Slovenians, striding into an unpredictable future may seem like second nature.

    One of your most famous paintings, “The Sower”, hangs on display here at the National Gallery. Depicting an agricultural labourer at the crack of dawn hard at work sowing seeds in a field, the painting represents Slovenians’ resolute determination in the face of uncertainty.

    The rest of us in Europe will need to draw on this example in the uncertain times ahead. If we do so, we can also turn uncertainty into opportunity.

    The importance of sharing the benefits of change

    The second lesson from Slovenia is that the benefits of change can – and should – be more widely shared.

    The path of renewal for Europe is inescapably linked with new technology, especially digitalisation. But new technologies can sometimes lead to uneven labour market outcomes.

    Slovenia has undergone remarkable technological change over the past 20 years. Today, the country’s level of digital development is 7% above the CEEC average and it can compete with some of the most digitally developed EU countries in certain areas.[6]

    Yet Slovenia’s Gini coefficient – a measure of income inequality – is the second lowest in the OECD.[7] The country also benefits from high levels of gender equality. Female labour force participation is higher than the EU average and nearly equal to that of men.[8]

    Many in Europe are worried about the challenges ahead, such as the effects of artificial intelligence on social inclusion. But we should let Slovenia’s example inspire us.

    With the right approach, we can move forward and become more technologically advanced while ensuring everyone can benefit from the gains.

    And when everyone benefits, Europe benefits too. Over three-quarters of citizens in Slovenia feel attached to Europe, and almost two-thirds identify as both Slovenian and European – levels that are well above their respective EU averages.[9]

    Conclusion

    Let me conclude.

    In today’s uncertain world, Europe must learn “to stand and withstand”. And it can do so by looking to Slovenia as an example of how to overcome challenges that come its way.

    First, we must work hard to sow the seeds of success. And then, as the folk singer Vlado Kreslin sings, “vse se da” – “everything is possible”.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Economics –