NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI: Azerion announces definitive agreement with DoubleDown Interactive for the sale of Whow Games Company sharpens focus on digital advertising, cloud services and AI

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Amsterdam, 9 July 2025 – Azerion, a leading European digital advertising platform, today announces the sale of its subsidiary Whow Games, the lion’s share of its Premium Games segment, to DoubleDown Interactive, part of South Korea-based DoubleUGames, for a total consideration of €65 million. The deal consists of an upfront payment of €55 million and an earn-out of up to €10 million, subject to customary adjustments.

    The transaction marks another significant step in Azerion’s strategy, a journey the company has been on for some years now, reinforcing digital advertising as the company’s core business. In addition, Azerion continues to expand into cloud infrastructure and AI-driven solutions.

    The sale follows a series of portfolio optimisations, including the divestment of its social card games portfolio in 2023 for €81.3 million. With a strong position as one of Europe’s most innovative players in digital advertising, Azerion is now also addressing growing European demand for scalable cloud and AI alternatives to large US providers. After more than 10 years of developing AI software and cloud services for its own use, Azerion is now offering these services to clients. This puts it in markets where many European companies are currently seeking an alternative to the American tech giants.

    Founded in the Netherlands in 2014, Azerion has grown into a major player in digital advertising through a series of strategic acquisitions. Listed on Euronext Amsterdam since February 2022, the company generated €551 million in revenue in 2024, up 7% year-on-year. Revenue guidance for 2025 is in the range of €600–650 million. In Q1 2025, the company reported EBITDA growth of 68% compared to the same period last year thanks to a continued focus on efficiency and profitability.

    Reinforcing digital advertising

    “We are excited to take this further step to strengthen our digital advertising business.” said Sebastiaan Moesman, Chief Strategy Officer of Azerion. “This sale enables us to dedicate even more resources and attention on realizing our growth and expansion plans. We are also demonstrating once again that our investment strategy can create long-term value for our shareholders.”

    Azerion recently launched Azerion Intelligence, a platform offering affordable and independent cloud hosting as well as access to a range of open-source AI tools. “Across Europe, companies and public institutions are increasingly looking to bring their data closer to home to be less reliant on one partner,” said Moesman. “While this desire is not new, we’re seeing a clear shift in priority. Organisations are now actively seeking alternatives to major cloud providers. At the same time, demand for local, cost-efficient AI services is on the rise. Azerion is well positioned to support organisations ready to take the next step in digital sovereignty.”

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: BSTDB Concludes the 27th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors in Yerevan

    Source: Black Sea Trade and Development Bank

    Press Release | 09-Jul-2025

    Governors Reaffirm Support for BSTDB and Approve New Strategic Branding

    The Board of Governors of the Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB) held its 27th Annual Meeting under the Chairmanship of Mr. Artur Javadyan, BSTDB Governor for the Republic of Armenia.

     The Meeting brought together high-level representatives from BSTDB’s eleven member states, along with BSEC leaders and the Bank’s Observers.

    The Governors evaluated the Bank’s operational activity and unanimously approved the Financial Statements for 2024. They praised BSTDB’s sustained role as a reliable partner for regional economic advancement.

    During the Meeting, the Board of Governors extended the term of Dr. Serhat Köksal as President of BSTDB by two years.

    Mr. Artur Javadyan, Chairman of the Board of Governors, commented: “Amid challenging economic times, BSTDB continued to deliver tangible results, reinforcing its role as a catalyst for sustainable regional growth”.

    Dr. Serhat Köksal, President of BSTDB, noted: ‘This meeting reaffirmed the shared vision of our member countries for a resilient and inclusive Black Sea region, underpinned by responsible finance.” Dr. Köksal expressed his gratitude to the Governors, stating: “I am deeply honored by the renewed trust placed in me. I thank the Board of Governors for their continued confidence and support, and I remain committed to advancing our collective vision for a resilient and inclusive Black Sea region, grounded in responsible finance.” 

    The BSTDB President also acknowledged the excellent organization and warm hospitality extended by Governor Javadyan and the host country.

    The Board also elected Mr. Sahil Babayev, Governor for the Republic of Azerbaijan, as the new Chair of the Board of Governors for the upcoming one-year term. Governors for the Republic of Bulgaria and Georgia were elected as Deputy Chairpersons. The 28th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors will be held in Azerbaijan. The exact date and venue of the Meeting will be determined in due course.

    In addition, the Board approved BSTDB’s new visual identity, reflecting the institution’s strategic orientation and commitment to modernization. The new brand will be officially unveiled in the coming weeks.

     

    The Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB) is an international financial institution established by Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Georgia, Greece, Moldova, Romania, Russia, Türkiye, and Ukraine. The BSTDB headquarters are in Thessaloniki, Greece. BSTDB supports economic development and regional cooperation by providing loans, credit lines, equity and guarantees for projects and trade financing in the public and private sectors in its member countries. The authorized capital of the Bank is EUR 3.45 billion. For information on BSTDB, visit www.bstdb.org.

     

    Contact: Haroula Christodoulou

    : @BSTDB

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: BSTDB Concludes the 27th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors in Yerevan

    Source: Black Sea Trade and Development Bank

    Press Release | 09-Jul-2025

    Governors Reaffirm Support for BSTDB and Approve New Strategic Branding

    The Board of Governors of the Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB) held its 27th Annual Meeting under the Chairmanship of Mr. Artur Javadyan, BSTDB Governor for the Republic of Armenia.

     The Meeting brought together high-level representatives from BSTDB’s eleven member states, along with BSEC leaders and the Bank’s Observers.

    The Governors evaluated the Bank’s operational activity and unanimously approved the Financial Statements for 2024. They praised BSTDB’s sustained role as a reliable partner for regional economic advancement.

    During the Meeting, the Board of Governors extended the term of Dr. Serhat Köksal as President of BSTDB by two years.

    Mr. Artur Javadyan, Chairman of the Board of Governors, commented: “Amid challenging economic times, BSTDB continued to deliver tangible results, reinforcing its role as a catalyst for sustainable regional growth”.

    Dr. Serhat Köksal, President of BSTDB, noted: ‘This meeting reaffirmed the shared vision of our member countries for a resilient and inclusive Black Sea region, underpinned by responsible finance.” Dr. Köksal expressed his gratitude to the Governors, stating: “I am deeply honored by the renewed trust placed in me. I thank the Board of Governors for their continued confidence and support, and I remain committed to advancing our collective vision for a resilient and inclusive Black Sea region, grounded in responsible finance.” 

    The BSTDB President also acknowledged the excellent organization and warm hospitality extended by Governor Javadyan and the host country.

    The Board also elected Mr. Sahil Babayev, Governor for the Republic of Azerbaijan, as the new Chair of the Board of Governors for the upcoming one-year term. Governors for the Republic of Bulgaria and Georgia were elected as Deputy Chairpersons. The 28th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors will be held in Azerbaijan. The exact date and venue of the Meeting will be determined in due course.

    In addition, the Board approved BSTDB’s new visual identity, reflecting the institution’s strategic orientation and commitment to modernization. The new brand will be officially unveiled in the coming weeks.

     

    The Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB) is an international financial institution established by Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Georgia, Greece, Moldova, Romania, Russia, Türkiye, and Ukraine. The BSTDB headquarters are in Thessaloniki, Greece. BSTDB supports economic development and regional cooperation by providing loans, credit lines, equity and guarantees for projects and trade financing in the public and private sectors in its member countries. The authorized capital of the Bank is EUR 3.45 billion. For information on BSTDB, visit www.bstdb.org.

     

    Contact: Haroula Christodoulou

    : @BSTDB

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Storm Shadow and missile cooperation to boost jobs as UK and France reboot defence relationship

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    New Storm Shadow and missile cooperation to boost jobs as UK and France reboot defence relationship

    A new ‘Entente Industrielle’ will support thousands of UK jobs across projects including air-to air missiles

    Britain and France are to order more highly lethal Storm Shadow cruise missiles, while stepping up work on its replacement as part of a new refreshed agreement signed today (Thursday 10 July). 

    The new agreement will see the UK and France commit to launch the next phase of their joint project for both deep strike and anti-ship missiles – a step closer to selecting a final design for Storm Shadow’s replacement. 

    The joint development effort will sustain 1,300 highly skilled jobs across the UK, boosting the economy in line with the Government’s Plan for Change. Upgrading the existing Storm Shadow production lines will support more than 300 jobs at manufacturer MBDA. 

    The Prime Minister and President Emmanuel Macron will also today agree to deepen their nuclear cooperation and work more closely than ever before on nuclear deterrence.

    In an important step forward for the UK-France nuclear partnership – a newly signed declaration will state for the first time that the respective deterrents of both countries are independent but can be co-ordinated, and that there is no extreme threat to Europe that would not prompt a response by both nations.

    As such, any adversary threatening the vital interests of Britain or France could be confronted by the strength of the nuclear forces of both nations. Co-operation between both countries on nuclear research will also deepen, while working together to uphold the international non-proliferation architecture.

    The UK and France are Europe’s only nuclear powers, with deterrents that contribute significantly to the overall security of NATO and the Euro-Atlantic.

    Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, said:

    From war in Europe, to new nuclear risks and daily cyber-attacks – the threats we face are multiplying.

    As close partners and NATO allies, the UK and France have a deep history of defence collaboration and today’s agreements take our partnership to the next level. 

    We stand ready to use our shared might to advance our joint capabilities – equipping us for the decades to come while supporting thousands of UK jobs and keeping our people safe. 

    Defence Secretary, John Healey MP, said:   

    The UK and France are stepping up together to meet today’s threats and tomorrow’s challenges. We are committed to driving defence as an engine for growth, delivering better fighting capabilities faster, and ensuring our armed forces can operate side by side – from the High North to the Black Sea. 

    This partnership strengthens our leadership in Europe, ensures continued support for Ukraine, and sends a clear signal to our adversaries that we stand stronger, together.

    By deepening defence industrial cooperation with France, it will boost the UK’s own national resilience, ability to deter against attacks, and defend against threats, reinforcing the contribution to NATO.

    The new partnerships will be developed under the refreshed Lancaster House agreement through a new ‘Entente Industrielle’ making defence an engine for growth. 

    These partnerships include:   

    • Agreeing to build the next generation of deep strike, anti-ship missiles, replacing the lethally effective Storm Shadow. This new joint effort will sustain 1,300 high skilled jobs in the UK, boosting the UK economy in line with the Government’s Plan for Change
    • Upgrading the existing Storm Shadow cruise missile production lines in Stevenage to bolster national stockpiles, supporting more than 300 jobs within MBDA and the wider supply chain and making defence investment an engine for growth
    • Jointly developing the next generation of beyond visual range air-to-air missiles for the Royal Air Force’s fighter jets 
    • Starting work on new advanced weapons to give an advantage against adversaries. This will include a new partnership to develop high-tech radiofrequency weapons such as microwave weapons and jammers that could be used to shoot down threats like drones and missiles 
    • The UK and France will also look to harness the power of AI to make their missiles and drones more lethal, by developing algorithms for synchronised strikes

    Under an ambitious new package of defence cooperation under the Lancaster House 2.0 declaration, both countries’ militaries will work closer together than ever before. Recognising the increased threat to European security, the UK and France will expand its jointly deployable force, refocusing it on defending Europe, moving to warfighting readiness to deter, and countering any adversaries. 

    The Combined Joint Force will be able to command a Combined UK/French Corps for the first time – the highest scale of deployed ground forces from a command perspective – made up of thousands of troops and working side-by-side with NATO allies.  

    For the first time it will also integrate space and cyber to counter new threats, boosting the abilities of the UK and France’s joint forces to quickly respond to developments on the battlefield through increased awareness and responsiveness supported by data from beyond just the ground, sea, and air.

    The Combined Joint Force is a crucial step forward in the UK and France stepping up their leadership within NATO, setting a clear path to meet the Government’s Strategic Defence Review commitment of NATO’s strategic Reserve Corp and stepping up on European security. 

    The UK and France will reaffirm their joint leadership of the Coalition of the Willing – a group of over 30 nations working together to coordinate military support for Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire. The CJF structures provide the bedrock for the coalition, enabling allies to operate under UK-French leadership.  

    This will include cooperating further on an integrated missile system to defend Europe. The UK-led DIAMOND initiative will improve NATO’s integrated air and missile defence by ensuring that the different air defence systems across the Alliance operate better and more jointly across the alliance. 

    These new agreements will continue to build on the Government’s first priority of keeping the country safe, which is a foundation of the Plan for Change.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: From robotic trucks to smart bins: how technology is helping cities sort their waste problem

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Breno Nunes, Associate professor in Sustainable Operations Management, Aston University

    Since early January 2025, residents of Birmingham in the UK have been caught in the dispute between the city council and the Unite union over pay, terms and conditions for waste and recycling collectors. The latest attempt at talks broke down in acrimony.

    At one point during the crisis, there were 17 tonnes of uncollected rubbish in Birmingham. Businesses and residents face public health and safety risks including pest infestations and the spread of disease and fire hazards.

    These have tainted the reputation of the city and hurt its chances of hosting events and attracting visitors. The news of cat-sized rats in Birmingham has made headlines from the US to Australia.



    Read more:
    Birmingham bin strikes: a threat to public health

    Workers’ pay is being negotiated between the union and the council in Birmingham. However, this is a fairly dangerous job and, with an ageing population, it may become more difficult to hire new workers. We argue that a more fair approach would be to use technology to help transition workers (including through training) towards better paid and safer positions.

    This would be an opportunity to build more sustainable waste management in the UK’s second largest city and beyond. Advances in robotics and AI are making automated refuse collection a reality, for example. Some cities in the US, Canada and parts of Europe already use robotics-enabled equipment in their refuse collection systems.

    A shortage of skilled personnel threatens the transition towards a greener economy. People have to be at the centre of the solution. In this case, skilled workers are needed to keep different types of waste separate and so improve recycling rates.

    The recovery value can be high for certain products such as electronics, automotive parts, as well as materials like plastic and metal. This is still difficult for machines to do.

    Smart bins and automated trucks

    Birmingham city council has already proposed improvements to waste collection. Based on publicly available information, it aims at increasing the number of rubbish trucks, reducing the number of collection days and retraining refuse collectors. But it has yet to take full advantage of existing advanced technologies.

    The plan, for instance, proposes improving communication with residents about collection day via text messages. While welcome, this is rather basic. It was only during the pandemic that all recycling centres started using online booking systems. Prior to that, endless queues were common – wasting time and increasing emissions with traffic jams.

    We argue that a whole-systems approach is needed to make the most of the opportunities new technology affords. Automated side loader trucks and smart bins are already used in various cities – the latter use sensors to monitor waste volumes and predict when collection is needed. The council could analyse the strengths and weaknesses of each technology in different areas of the city.

    Side loader trucks, which can lift up large bins and empty them, automate a dangerous process and are already considered a mature technology, used in cities across the US, Canada and Sweden. These trucks are difficult to drive in narrow streets. But, where appropriate, their benefits include increased productivity, reduced collection costs and greater worker safety.

    Sensors embedded in the vehicle, including from cameras, can provide data on the distribution of waste in different areas. This helps to produce a waste map. AI algorithms can analyse the data and provide customised collection schedules that optimise the use of trucks in the collection fleet. The algorithms can learn and be continuously revised to improve the service.

    In busy areas of the city, information from smart bins can prevent rubbish accumulating. Advanced machine learning techniques can then be employed to further optimise the collection schedule by detecting, for instance, anomalies such as a sudden increase in some types of waste. Such systems can provide more adaptable solutions and increase the productivity of officers.

    Recent improvements in imaging techniques and chemical analysis can help to identify different waste materials and allow automatic sorting, and the identification of hazardous waste.

    Other technological solutions, such as the use of smart underground large storage containers as communal bins allow for less frequent collections, but they may require significant changes to both infrastructure and trucks. These already exist in parts of Spain.

    Pneumatic waste collection systems have been tested in Wembley, a suburb in northwest London. In this system, waste is sucked through underground pipes by a fan system at speeds approaching 50mph to a central point, where it is stored in airtight containers until further treatment takes place. More than 30 countries adopt this system.

    Educating the public is vital too. Reducing waste in the first place is a good way to save money and would reduce pressure on waste collection systems.

    As far as Birmingham goes, overlooking advanced technologies won’t make the council’s task of satisfying residents and waste collection teams any easier. We think a lot of people would be happier to see more robotics trucks and smart bins than more rats in the streets.

    Breno Nunes receives funding from InnovateUK for a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project on sustainable manufacturing strategy.

    Roberto Castro Alamino does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. From robotic trucks to smart bins: how technology is helping cities sort their waste problem – https://theconversation.com/from-robotic-trucks-to-smart-bins-how-technology-is-helping-cities-sort-their-waste-problem-260023

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: APA Corporation Provides Second-Quarter 2025 Supplemental Information and Schedules Results Conference Call for August 7 at 10 a.m. Central Time

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, July 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — APA Corporation (Nasdaq: APA) today provided supplemental information regarding certain second-quarter 2025 financial and operational results. This information is intended only to provide additional information regarding current estimates management believes will affect results for the second-quarter 2025. It is provided to assist investors, analysts and others in formulating their own estimates, and is not intended to be a comprehensive presentation of all factors that will affect second-quarter 2025 results. Actual results and the impact of factors identified here may vary depending on the impact of other factors not identified here and are subject to finalization of the financial reporting process for second-quarter 2025.

    Estimated Average Realized Prices – 2Q25
      Oil (bbl) NGL (bbl) Natural Gas (Mcf)
    United States $64.85 $19.80 $1.00
    International $66.20 $41.60 $4.00
    Egypt tax barrels: 32 – 33 MBoe/d
    Dry hole costs (before tax): $30 – $35 million
    Net gain on oil and gas purchases and sales (before tax)*: $158 million

    *Includes the impact of realized gain/loss from commodity derivatives

    Production update

    APA curtailed approximately 10 MMcf/d of U.S. natural gas production and 750 barrels per day of U.S. natural gas liquids production in the second quarter in response to weak or negative Waha hub prices.

    Asset sale update

    In May, APA announced an agreement to divest assets in New Mexico. The sales package closed in June, resulting in an approximate 1.8 MBoe/d (33% oil), reduction to APA’s second quarter U.S. production. APA’s previous full-year 2025 U.S. production guidance issued in May contemplated approximately 13.0 MBoe/d (50% oil) from the sold New Mexico assets in the second half of 2025. Total net proceeds from the asset sale, after certain customary closing adjustments and transaction costs, were approximately $575 million.

    Weighted-average shares outstanding

    The estimated weighted-average basic common shares for the second quarter is 361 million.

    Second-quarter 2025 earnings call

    APA will host a conference call to discuss its second-quarter 2025 results at 10 a.m. Central time, Thursday, August 7. The conference call will be webcast from APA’s website at www.apacorp.com and investor.apacorp.com. Following the conference call, a replay will be available for one year on the “Investors” page of the company’s website.

    About APA

    APA Corporation owns consolidated subsidiaries that explore for and produce oil and natural gas in the United States, Egypt and the United Kingdom and that explore for oil and natural gas offshore Suriname and elsewhere. APA posts announcements, operational updates, investor information and press releases on its website, www.apacorp.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “seeks,” “believes,” “continues,” “could,” “estimates,” “expects,” “goals,” “guidance,” “may,” “might,” “outlook,” “possibly,” “potential,” “projects,” “prospects,” “should,” “will,” “would,” and similar references to future periods, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements about future plans, expectations, and objectives for operations, including statements about our capital plans, drilling plans, production expectations, asset sales, and monetizations. While forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and analyses made by us that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, whether actual results and developments will meet our expectations and predictions depend on a number of risks and uncertainties which could cause our actual results, performance, and financial condition to differ materially from our expectations. See “Risk Factors” in APA’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, and in our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for a discussion of risk factors that affect our business. Any forward-looking statement made in this news release speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. APA and its subsidiaries undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future development or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    Contacts

    Investor: (281) 302-2286
    Media: (713) 296-7276
    Website: www.apacorp.com

    APA-F

    The MIL Network –

  • India aims for energy independence by 2047 and net-zero by 2070: Hardeep Singh Puri

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India has outlined a bold roadmap for energy security and a sustainable future at the 9th OPEC International Seminar held in Vienna, Austria. Addressing global energy leaders and industry experts, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, emphasized India’s commitment to achieving energy independence by 2047 and net-zero emissions by 2070.

    Speaking on the theme ‘Oil Markets: Energy Security, Growth & Prosperity’, Puri detailed India’s extensive plans to expand hydrocarbon exploration. Under the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) Round-10, the government has opened 2.5 lakh sq km for exploration, with the target to scale this up to 0.5 million sq km by 2025 and 1 million sq km by 2030. He also highlighted India’s potential breakthrough in discovering a Guyana-scale oilfield in the Andaman Sea, positioning the country for major upstream growth under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

    Key policy reforms are driving this momentum. India has transitioned from a Production Sharing Contract regime to a Revenue Sharing Model under the Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (HELP) and has amended the Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Act, 1948 to improve lease management, safety and dispute resolution.

    Notably, 99% of previously designated ‘No-Go’ areas have been opened, freeing over 1 million sq km for exploration. This expansion is underpinned by large-scale national data initiatives, including the National Seismic Program, the Andaman Offshore Project, Mission Anveshan, and the Extended Continental Shelf Survey.

    Highlighting India’s growing role in global energy markets, Puri noted that as the world’s third-largest energy consumer with daily demand of about 5.4 million barrels, India is both a structural growth engine and a stabilizing force in the oil market. “India will contribute nearly 25% of the incremental global energy demand growth in the coming years,” he said.

    To strengthen its energy security, India is diversifying its crude oil import sources from 27 to 40 countries, ramping up domestic production, advancing alternative fuels, and expanding its refining capacity to 310 MMTPA by 2028. The country also aims to boost its petrochemical sector, targeting a USD 300 billion industry by 2030.

    Despite global geopolitical tensions, Puri highlighted India’s success in ensuring affordable energy for its citizens. “India is the only major economy to reduce fuel prices even as global oil prices rose,” he pointed out.

    On the clean energy front, the Minister underlined the role of biofuels in India’s decarbonization pathway. The Global Biofuels Alliance — initiated by India — now has the support of over 29 countries and 14 international organisations. Domestically, the country is accelerating the use of ethanol, compressed biogas (CBG), biodiesel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). “India firmly believes the global energy transition must be just, inclusive and equitable. For 1.4 billion Indians and billions across the Global South, development must go hand in hand with dignity,” he said.

    He also shared the success of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), the world’s largest clean cooking programme. Since its launch, over 103 million LPG connections have been provided to women from economically weaker households, raising LPG coverage from 55% in 2014 to near-universal access today. Despite a 58% rise in global LPG prices, PMUY beneficiaries pay only $6–7 for a standard 14.2 kg cylinder — about 39% less than the international market price last year — supported by significant government subsidies and oil marketing companies absorbing $4.7 billion in losses.

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: 66th WIPO General Assemblies, July 2025: UK Statement

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Speech

    66th WIPO General Assemblies, July 2025: UK Statement

    UK Statement for the World Intellectual Property Organization General Assemblies. Delivered by Mr. Adam Williams, Chief Executive and Comptroller-General of the UK’s Intellectual Property Office.

    Thank you Chair.

    The UK is pleased to be part of the 66th session of the WIPO Assemblies. We thank you, Chair, Ambassador Suescum, DG Tang, and the Secretariat for preparing this session.

    We commend your positive leadership, DG, over the past four years. Systems like the PCT, Hague and Madrid remain essential for all UK businesses, providing cost-effective global IP protection. We value your commitment to keeping these services central to WIPO’s work. 

    The UK welcomes WIPO’s responsible and prudent financial management, which is especially important in these uncertain times. This General Assembly has several challenging issues to discuss ahead, including WIPO’s program and budget. We encourage all delegations to work towards consensus.  

    The UK applauds the adoption of the design law and genetic resources treaties last year, clear proof that multilateralism and IP can deliver meaningful progress. We are pleased to announce our intention to sign the Design Law Treaty this week, supporting global designers and small businesses.

    We strongly support efforts to build a more inclusive IP system, especially programs for women, youth, and underrepresented groups and initiatives like the Global Entrepreneurship Empowerment.

    Looking ahead, with just 17% of SDG targets on track, we welcome WIPO GREEN’s expansion, and the growing recognition of IP’s role in tackling climate change. The UK was pleased to sign a MoU with WIPO Green last year and have since joined its Board to deepen collaboration.

    We also value WIPO’s work on IP and frontier technologies and encourage deeper collaboration with Geneva-based partners and global initiatives like the UN Global Digital Compact and AI for Good.

    Finally, we thank the Secretariat for its report on assistance for Ukraine’s innovation and creativity sector (document A/66/8). While Ukraine faces an unprecedented level of Russian attacks on its towns and cities, wreaking horrific damage on its people and its creative industries, we salute its resilience and innovation in the face of such criminality, and welcome the support provided by WIPO.

    Chair, the UK remains committed to a WIPO that is efficient, inclusive and focused on delivering for global innovators and creators.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Millions of households to be given income boost as Bill progresses through Parliament

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Millions of households to be given income boost as Bill progresses through Parliament

    Nearly 4 million households will see an annual income boost estimated to be worth £725 cash as a Bill to overhaul the welfare system completes the next stage of its passage through Parliament.

    • Bill to introduce biggest permanent boost to out-of-work support since 1980 progresses through Parliament.
    • Legislation will remove perverse disincentives to work that exist in the welfare system while protecting 200,000 of those with the most severe, lifelong conditions who are not expected to ever be able to work.
    • Alongside the Bill, disabled people and those with health conditions will have legal protections to try work without fear of reassessment.
    • Reforms to the welfare system aimed at improving living standards across the country and breaking down barriers to opportunity as part of the Government’s Plan for Change.

    Nearly 4 million households will see an annual income boost estimated to be worth £725 cash as a Bill to overhaul the welfare system completes the next stage of its passage through Parliament.

    For the first time ever, the Universal Credit standard allowance will permanently rise above inflation, amounting to £725 by 2029/30 in cash terms for a single person aged 25 or over.

    This is the highest permanent real terms increase to the main rate of out-of-work support since 1980, according to the IFS.

    Reforms set out in the Universal Credit Bill will look to rebalance the core payment and health top up in Universal Credit (UC). This will address the fundamental imbalance in the system which creates perverse incentives that drive people into dependency.

    The Bill, which will legislate to make these changes, today successfully cleared the House of Commons. It will now be introduced into the House of Lords to continue its passage through Parliament towards Royal Assent.

    Alongside these changes, we have published significant new measures, giving people receiving health and disability benefits the right to try work without fear of reassessment.

    The new Right to Try Guarantee enshrines this in law for the first time and includes disabled people and people with health conditions – such as those recovering from illness – who want to return to work now their health has improved.

    Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said:

    Our reforms are built on the principle of fairness, fixing a system that for too long has left people trapped in a cycle of dependence.

    We are giving extra support to millions of households across the country, while offering disabled people the chance to work without fear of the repercussions if things don’t work out.

    These reforms will change the lives of people across the country, so they have a real chance for a better future.

    As part of our commitment to protect the most vulnerable and severely disabled, 200,000 in the Severe Conditions Criteria group – individuals with the most severe, lifelong conditions who are unlikely to recover – will not be called for a UC reassessment.

    All existing recipients of the UC health element and new customers with 12 months or less to live or who meet the Severe Conditions Criteria will also see their standard allowance combined with their UC health element rise at least in line with inflation every year from 2026/27 to 2029/30.This means they can live with dignity and security, knowing the reforms to the welfare system mean it will always be there to support them.

    We are also putting disabled people at the heart of a ministerial review of the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessment led by Disability Minister Stephen Timms and co-produced with disabled people, along with the organisations that represent them, experts, MPs and other stakeholders – making sure it is fair and fit for the future.

    We will be engaging widely over the summer to design the process for the review and consider how it can best be co-produced to ensure that expertise from a range of different perspectives is drawn upon.

    These reforms are underpinned by a major investment in employment support for sick and disabled people – worth £3.8 billion over the Parliament. Funding will be brought forward for tailored employment, health and skills support to help disabled people and those with health conditions get into work as part of our Pathways to Work guarantee.

    This investment will accelerate the pace of new investments in employment support programmes, building on and learning from successes such as the Connect to Work programme, which are already rolling out to provide disabled people and people with health conditions with one-to-one support at the point when they feel ready to work.

    The reforms build on the Get Britain Working White Paper that will overhaul Jobcentres, empower Mayors and local leaders to tackle inactivity, and deliver a Youth Guarantee so every young person is either earning or learning, as part of the Government’s ambition to deliver an 80% employment rate.

    Further information

    The Universal Credit standard allowance is set to be around £250 higher than an inflation only increases.

    The UC Bill legislates for:

    Rebalancing of UC health and standard elements to address the fundamental imbalance in the system which creates perverse incentives that drive people into dependency through:

    • Increasing the UC standard allowance above inflation for the next four years – worth an estimated £725 by 2029/30 for a single adult aged 25 or over.
    • Reducing the health top-up for new claims to £50 per week from April 2026.
    • Ensuring that all existing recipients of the UC health element – and any new claimant meeting the Severe Conditions Criteria and/or that has their claims considered under the Special Rules for End of Life (SREL) – will receive the higher UC health payment after April 2026.
    • Exemptions from reassessment for those with the most severe, lifelong conditions.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Parliament deplores the democratic backsliding and repression in Georgia

    Source: European Parliament

    After decades of democratic progress, MEPs now believe Georgia is a victim of state capture and repeat their calls for new parliamentary elections in the country.

    In a report adopted on Wednesday by 490 votes in favour, 147 against with 49 abstentions, Parliament says the rigged October 2024 parliamentary elections in Georgia marked a clear turning point towards an authoritarian government in the EU candidate country. This flawed election paved the way, they say, for the ruling Georgian Dream party to illicitly capture state institutions and remove democratic safeguards, push ahead with repressive legislation while also cracking down on political opponents, journalists, and peaceful protesters.

    With the Georgian government jeopardising the country’s EU accession path, the EU-Georgia Association Agreement.

    Georgia must return to the course of democratic reforms

    While calling on Georgian Dream to return to a democratic path and Euro-Atlantic integration, MEPs reiterate their solidarity with the Georgian people and their legitimate pro-European aspirations. MEPs emphasise that upcoming municipal elections do not present an opportunity to reflect the democratic choice of the Georgian people unless imprisoned and detained political opposition leaders are released and the elections are held in an improved electoral environment. They also express deep concern over Georgia’s current restrictive media environment and attacks on the political opposition, including declarations by leaders of Georgian Dream indicating their intention to declare opposition parties unconstitutional.

    Quote

    “Sadly, we could not assess any progress by Georgia because, from having once been an inspiring leader among Eastern Partnership countries, Georgia has become a brutal dictatorship. Since the adoption of this report in committee, the situation has deteriorated: almost all leaders of the opposition have been detained and are in jail. Independent media are on the verge of collapse. The largest civil society organisations face threats and severe legal restrictions. Georgia is an example of how a country can be captured by Russian interests from within without a shot being fired. But the Georgian people are not giving up, they continue protesting every day, for more than 200 days, despite violent repression. The EU and its member states must take action before it is too late. We owe it to the brave Georgians fighting for a free and pro-European future,” rapporteur Rasa Juknevičienė (EPP, Lithuania) said.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – MEPs support EU aid worth €280 million for flood-stricken countries

    Source: European Parliament

    Parliament adopted a proposal to unlock €280 million of EU Solidarity Fund money to assist countries affected by devastating floods in 2024.

    On Wednesday, MEPs with 643 votes in favour, 13 against, and 35 abstentions endorsed a Commission proposal to provide financial help to Austria, Poland, Czechia, Slovakia, Moldova, and Bosnia and Herzegovina to deal with the consequences of severe flooding in September and October 2024.

    The € 280,740,903 in aid from the European Union Solidarity Fund (EUSF) will be distributed as follows:

    • Austria: €42.8 million
    • Czechia: €114 million
    • Poland: €76 million
    • Slovakia: €2.1 million
    • Bosnia and Herzegovina: €45.7 million
    • Moldova: €195,200

    The funds will support a wide range of recovery measures, including infrastructure repair, temporary accommodation, improvements to preventive infrastructure, protecting cultural heritage sites, and clean-up operations.

    MEPs expressed their deepest solidarity with the victims, their families, and all the individuals affected by the destructive floods. They also said the Commission should substantially expand the EUSF budget or its equivalent in its upcoming proposal on the new EU long-term budget (MFF). MEPs also added that the EU should continue to address climate change adaptation and mitigation by supporting European and national policies to prevent natural disasters.

    Quote

    “Parliament takes another positive step in supporting citizens in need. Following today’s vote, extra funds will aid the victims of last year’s tragic floods in Austria, Poland, Czechia, Slovakia, Moldova, and Bosnia-Herzegovina. This was made possible by last year’s decision to give more money to the European Solidarity Fund. Now it can help repair infrastructure, provide shelter, and improve preventive actions. As natural disasters grow more frequent and severe, the EU must be able to provide swift and effective financial aid,” Andrzej Halicki (EPP, PL), Parliament’s rapporteur, said.

    Background

    The European Union Solidarity Fund (EUSF), the EU’s main post-disaster relief instrument, since its launch in 2002, has provided over €9.6 billion to help respond to 136 major crises – including 116 natural disasters and 20 health emergencies – across 24 EU countries (as well as the UK) and four candidate countries.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government action to speed up compensation for LGBT veterans

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Government action to speed up compensation for LGBT veterans

    LGBT military personnel who faced dismissal, discharge or mistreatment due to their sexuality while serving between 1967 and 2000 will receive financial support faster following improvements to the Government’s financial recognition scheme.

    • Increase in dedicated staff will accelerate applications and process payments faster  

    • New automated payment system is being built to eliminate processing delays and administrative bottlenecks  

    • Financial recognition scheme will provide support for LGBT military personnel who faced dismissal, discharge or mistreatment while serving between 1967 – 2000. 

    LGBT military personnel who faced dismissal, discharge or mistreatment due to their sexuality while serving between 1967 and 2000 will receive financial support faster following improvements to the Government’s financial recognition scheme. 

    The UK Government has increased dedicated staff by adding a further five workers, almost doubling the size of the existing team, to accelerate application reviews and process payments more quickly. The expanded team will focus on expediting the creation of applicant case files and processing of applications.  

    To address processing concerns, the Government is also introducing two other key measures as part of its efforts to ensure veterans receive timely recognition for past injustices:  

    • An automated payments system is being built to streamline the process, significantly reducing administrative bottlenecks and minimising errors. This system will ensure payments are made accurately and promptly once approved.  

    • Independent Panel sittings will double to two per week to accelerate the review of cases requiring assessment, particularly for those seeking recognition payments of up to £20,000 for harm experienced beyond dismissal or discharge.  
        The Government remains driven to ensure every recommendation of Lord Etherton’s review is fully implemented. As of July 2025, Defence has completed 42 of the 49 recommendations and two other remaining recommendations will be completed by the end of the year.  

    This action demonstrates the Government’s Plan for Change in practice – delivering on the commitment to strengthen national security by ensuring we maintain the trust and confidence of all those who serve our country.

    Minister for Veterans and People, Al Carns MP, said

    We deeply regret the treatment of LGBT serving personnel between 1967 and 2000 which was wholly unacceptable.  

    We have been prioritising payments to the elderly and those with serious health conditions to ensure they receive support as quickly as possible.

    We’re taking decisive action to ensure LGBT veterans receive the recognition they deserve by increasing staff resources, implementing an automated payment system, and doubling panel reviews.   

    This scheme acknowledges the sacrifices of those who faced discrimination while serving. I urge all affected veterans to apply through the GOV.UK portal as we remain fully committed to implementing Lord Etherton’s recommendations, and righting these historic wrongs, as part of our Government’s commitment to renew the nation’s contract with those who have served.

    The further support for LGBT Veterans comes off the back of the government’s historic commitment to increase defence spending to 2.6% of GDP by 2027, demonstrating the Government’s commitment to renew the nation’s contract with those who have served. 

    The scheme, launched by the Government in December, goes beyond financial recognition – it also acknowledges the sacrifices and injustices faced by LGBT veterans and ensures their experiences are recognised and valued. This can include, but not limited to, having a restoration of rank, letters of apologies, among other forms of recognition.   

    All veterans affected by the ban while serving between 1967 and 2000 are urged to read the guidance and apply via the Veterans of the LGBT Ban: Financial Recognition Scheme page on GOV.UK.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Failure of private hospitals in Bulgaria to apply EU public procurement rules, to the detriment of Bulgarian taxpayers: procedure INFR(2018)2268 – P-002749/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002749/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Radan Kanev (PPE)

    Member States had to transpose Directive 2014/24/EU into their national legislation by 18 April 2016, with each facility over 50 % publicly-funded having to comply with the rules on transparency, equal treatment and efficiency in public procurement. However, Bulgarian legislation allows for the injustice of private hospitals purchasing medicines through direct negotiations, without public tenders, despite the fact they receive significant funding from the Bulgarian National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).

    This practice is creating significant differences in medicines prices between public and private hospitals, with private hospitals paying tens times more for the same medicines and the cost being covered by Bulgarian taxpayers through the NHIF.

    These breaches led to infringement procedure INFR(2018)2268 being initiated and, under the Commission’s reasoned opinion issued on 24 April 2024, Bulgaria has two months to remedy them before the case is brought to the Court of Justice of the European Union.

    So far, there is nothing to indicate that Bulgaria has taken any action in response.

    • 1.What developments have there been in INFR(2018)2268 against Bulgaria, and has the Commission acted on the two-month deadline set in April 2024?
    • 2.What is the Commission’s assessment in respect of the compliance of Bulgarian legislation with the requirements of Directive 2014/24/EU?
    • 3.What follow-up action will the Commission take in the event that Bulgaria fails to put in place effective mechanisms for the implementation and monitoring of public procurement by private hospitals?

    Submitted: 5.7.2025

    Last updated: 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the case of Ryan Cornelius in Dubai – RC-B10-0328/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Sebastião Bugalho, Seán Kelly, Tomáš Zdechovský, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Isabel Wiseler‑Lima, Tomas Tobé, Wouter Beke, Davor Ivo Stier, Łukasz Kohut, Mirosława Nykiel, Michał Wawrykiewicz, Inese Vaidere
    on behalf of the PPE Group
    Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Aodhán Ó Ríordáin
    on behalf of the S&D Group
    Adam Bielan, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Bogdan Rzońca, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Marlena Maląg, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński
    on behalf of the ECR Group
    Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Benoit Cassart, Engin Eroglu, Olivier Chastel, Karin Karlsbro, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar
    on behalf of the Renew Group
    Villy Søvndal
    on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

    European Parliament resolution on the case of Ryan Cornelius in Dubai

    (2025/2796(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to Opinion No 19/2022 of the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention (UNWGAD),

    – having regard to Rules 150(5) and 136(4) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas Ryan Cornelius, a 71-year-old British national married to an EU citizen, has been arbitrarily detained in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) since 2008, following a conviction on false fraud charges related to a loan from Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) for a property development project;

    B. whereas he was initially sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment and, just before his scheduled release in 2018, his sentence was extended by an additional 20 years under Dubai Law 37 of 2009, applied retroactively and in violation of international legal standards;

    C. whereas according to human rights organisations, the UAE Government has a concerning track record of arbitrary detention, unfair trials and allegations of torture;

    D. whereas according to independent auditors, the real estate development seized from Ryan Cornelius by DIB is demonstrably worth many times the amount of his outstanding debt to the bank;

    E. whereas the UNWGAD has declared his continued imprisonment a violation of international law, citing a lack of due process, coerced confessions, solitary confinement, denial of legal counsel and coerced signing of documents in Arabic;

    F. whereas Ryan Cornelius continues to be held in inhumane prison conditions, with his health deteriorating and without proper access to healthcare;

    G. Whereas Dubai Law 37 of 2009 states in Article 7(1) that the convicted person (the debtor) shall not be sentenced to jail if that person is aged over 70; whereas Ryan Cornelius turned 70 in 2024 and as such should be granted an exemption under this law;

    1. Condemns Ryan Cornelius’s arbitrary and prolonged detention and calls for him and all other arbitrarily detained persons to be released immediately and unconditionally;

    2. Demands that he be granted an enforceable right to compensation and other reparations, in accordance with international law;

    3. Urges the Dubai authorities to provide him with access to adequate medical treatment and care in accordance with international standards on the treatment of prisoners, and to ensure an independent investigation into his arbitrary detention;

    4. Denounces the retroactive application of Law 37 of 2009 and urges the UAE to ensure fair trials and abolish the practice of debt-related imprisonment; notes that Ryan Cornelius remains in prison despite the authorities having seized assets valued at more than twice his original debt;

    5. Expresses solidarity with his family;

    6. Calls on the United Kingdom to take all necessary action to ensure Ryan Cornelius’s release; urges the VP/HR, the EU Special Representative for Human Rights, the Member States and the EU Delegation to the UAE to raise his case in all bilateral engagements with the UAE and closely monitor the conditions of his detention;

    7. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Commission, the Council, the VP/HR, the EU Special Representative for Human Rights, the Member States, and the governments of the United Kingdom and the UAE.

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – Ordinary meeting of 9 July 2025, Strasbourg – Delegation for relations with the countries of Southeast Asia and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)

    Source: European Parliament

    The delegation for relations with the countries of Southeast Asia and the ASEAN has elected its 1st and 2nd vice chairs:

    1st Vice Chair: MENDIA Idoia, S&D, Spain

    2nd Vice Chair: VASILE-VOICULESCU Vlad, Renew, Romania

     

    © European Union, 2025 – EP

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Peste des petits ruminants: A race against time for livelihoods and livestock – 09-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Peste des petits ruminants (PPR, also known as sheep and goat plague) is a highly contagious viral disease affecting goats, sheep, camels and wild ruminants. With a mortality rate of up to 90 %, the disease causes severe economic losses, threatening food security and livelihoods. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) estimates annual global losses to stand at €1.3 billion to €2 billion. Since its first occurrence in Bulgaria in 2018, PPR has caused significant losses in Greece, Romania and, more recently, Albania. To address this worrisome situation, the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) and the FAO launched a strategy aimed at eradicating the disease by 2030. The strategy, which was officially launched in 2015 and endorsed by 70 countries, integrates vaccination, diagnostics and veterinary system strengthening. While live-attenuated vaccines (vaccines using weakened live disease-causing pathogens) are available and offer three or more years of protection, it is not possible to serologically distinguish vaccinated from infected animals, which is a crucial difference in eradication strategies. PPR has profound economic and trade impacts, and recent outbreaks within the European Union (EU) have underscored the urgency of transboundary disease management. Effective collaboration between global and EU frameworks, alongside community engagement and innovation, remains critical to achieving PPR eradication and safeguarding smallholder livelihoods. The European Parliament has been advocating for robust policies to address animal health threats.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Partial renewal of the European Court of Auditors – LU and NL Nominees – Committee on Budgetary Control

    Source: European Parliament

    Partial renewal of the European Court of Auditors – LU and NL Nominees © Image used under license from Adobe Stock

    On 15 July 2025, the Budgetary Control Committee will hold a hearing and vote on the nominations of Ms Joëlle Elvinger as the Luxembourg Member, and Mr Stephanus Blok as the Netherlands Member of the European Court of Auditors (ECA).

    Following nomination by the governments of Luxembourg and Netherlands, the Budgetary Control Committee has invited the two nominees to a hearing. During the hearing, CONT Members will ask questions and evaluate their credentials as nominees to the ECA, in particular in view of the requirements laid down in Article 286(1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. CONT will give an opinion for the appointment of the candidates in the form of a recommendation to the Plenary. Appointment of the Members of the European Court of Auditors is defined in the Rules of Procedures of the European Parliament under Rule 129.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Alexander Novak: REW-2025 will become a key platform for discussing current energy issues

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak held the second meeting of the organizing committee for the preparation and holding of the international forum “Russian Energy Week”. The meeting was attended by representatives of federal authorities, energy companies, and industry communities.

    REW-2025 will be held from October 15 to 17 in Moscow. The forum will traditionally bring together representatives of government, business, science and the expert community to discuss global trends and challenges in the energy industry.

    Opening the meeting of the organizing committee, Alexander Novak emphasized the importance of intensifying the invitation campaign and filling the business program. “REW-2025 will become a key platform for discussing current energy issues, demonstrating technological achievements and strengthening international cooperation. This year, we will pay special attention to the 80th anniversary of the Russian nuclear industry and the integration of energy sovereignty topics,” said the Deputy Prime Minister.

    Adviser to the President of Russia, Executive Secretary of the REW Organizing Committee Anton Kobyakov noted that preparations for the forum are proceeding as usual. “Invitations to take part in REW-2025 events have been sent to more than 6.3 thousand participants, including heads of Russian and foreign businesses, as well as representatives of official delegations. Representatives of 65 companies from nine countries have confirmed their participation, including Azerbaijan, Brazil, Great Britain, Germany, Zambia, Kazakhstan, Côte d’Ivoire, Serbia, and South Africa. The Organizing Committee is actively working to attract foreign partners, especially from Asian, African, and Arab countries,” Anton Kobyakov added.

    As part of REW-2025, in parallel with the demonstration of stands of the forum’s key partners in the Manezh Central Exhibition Hall, a specialized exhibition will once again be organized at the Gostiny Dvor site, which will demonstrate the industry’s achievements in the field of import substitution and innovative development of the country in the context of the Energy Strategy of Russia until 2050.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Rechanneling of RRP funds towards maintaining scholarships and ensuring equitable access to education in Romania – E-002703/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002703/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Nicolae Ștefănuță (Verts/ALE)

    The Romanian Ministry of Education has announced that it may cut grants for students and schoolchildren. According to the data submitted by student organisations, reducing the scholarship fund by around 40 % would mean fewer beneficiaries and much lower amounts per student or schoolchild, when those from disadvantaged backgrounds already experience major difficulties in accessing education.

    Given the crucial role of education in the development of society and the principles of equal opportunities, promoted at EU level, I would like to put the following question:

    Can funds from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) or other sources of EU funding be redirected or supplemented in order to support scholarships for students and schoolchildren in Romania, so as to ensure continuity and equity in access to education for all young people, regardless of their backgrounds?

    I believe that such a measure would make a significant contribution to preventing early school and university leaving, to reducing poverty and to supporting Romania’s objectives on social inclusion and human capital development within the ambit of the European Union.

    Submitted: 2.7.2025

    Last updated: 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Defence funding for non-EU countries in the new multiannual financial framework – E-002723/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002723/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Georgios Aftias (PPE)

    The Commission plans to present the report on the multiannual financial framework, which includes European defence funding, on 16 July 2025. It is inconceivable – and beyond all logic – that a non-EU country, such as Türkiye, a country which directly or indirectly threatens Greece, an EU Member State, is allowed to participate in European defence funds with EU citizens’ money.

    Is the Commission going to finance the defence of Türkiye, a country which is not in the EU, which threatens Greece and which has not yet lifted the casus belli against my country?

    Submitted: 3.7.2025

    Last updated: 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – Ordinary meeting of 2 April 2025, Strasbourg – Delegation for relations with the countries of Southeast Asia and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)

    Source: European Parliament

    The delegation for relations with the countries of Southeast Asia and the ASEAN has elected its 1st and 2nd vice chairs:

    1st Vice Chair: MENDIA Idoia, S&D, Spain

    2nd Vice Chair: VASILE-VOICULESCU Vlad, Renew, Romania

    © European Union, 2025 – EP

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Negotiations on the supply of COVID-19 vaccines and Austria’s participation therein – E-002717/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002717/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Gerald Hauser (PfE)

    Commissioner Hadja Lahbib’s reply, dated 26 July 2025, to written question E-001495/2025[1] reads as follows:

    ‘The (Advanced) Purchase Agreements for the supply of COVID-19 vaccines to the Member States were concluded in full transparency with the Member States. Negotiations were carried out by a Joint Negotiation Team that consisted of representatives of the Commission and of several Member States. This team reported regularly to a Vaccines Steering Board co-chaired by the Commission and a Participating Member State, which provided guidance throughout the process. The Commission has provided information to the Parliament on a continuous basis, in line with its Treaty obligations and the framework Agreement on relations between the two institutions’.

    • 1.Please provide the names of the members of the negotiation team and the steering committee.
    • 2.Which Austrians were involved in concluding the negotiations, and who signed the agreement on behalf of Austria?
    • 3.How often was Austria kept informed during the negotiations, and what information was provided?

    Submitted: 3.7.2025

    • [1] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2025-001495_EN.html
    Last updated: 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Guide to low-cost summer fun in Leicester now online

    Source: City of Leicester

    FAMILIES looking for a low-cost day out this summer should check out what’s on in Leicester’s children’s centres, libraries and museums.

    As schools prepare to close for the long break, the city council is getting ready to open its venues for a summer of affordable fun, with the chance to explore a heritage building, ride on a steam train or meet some mini beasts amongst the ideas on offer.

    Events coming up at Leicester’s museums include a Roman activity day at Newarke Houses Museum (Weds 16 July), Toy Time Fun at the Guildhall (Thurs 17 July) and an opportunity to Meet the Police at a community fun day, also at the Guildhall, on Tuesday 22 July.

    Leicester Museum & Art Gallery is offering a series of free activities inspired by Elmer & Friends: The Colourful World of David McKee, its free summer exhibition, including an opportunity to make a story book on Friday 18 July.

    Abbey Pumping Station will be running its popular Railway Days every Tuesday throughout the summer holidays, with rides on the narrow gauge railway costing just 50p from Tuesday 15 July.

    Some events at the city’s museums must be booked in advance and charges may apply, so please check the website for details. Tickets bought online are always offered at a discounted rate.

    Leicester’s libraries also have a full programme of events this summer, with the opportunity to be an eco-explorer, make beads from coloured paper or design a plant pot amongst the many free activities on offer.

    There will also be story-telling, with author Catherine Ward reading from her book, By The Beaver Pool, at St Barnabas Library on Monday 28 July, and a free four-week course at the Central Library for youngsters who’d like to learn the art of storytelling (booking required for both activities).

    Details of all the free and low-cost activities taking place at city council venues and other city centre locations are available at families.leicester.gov.uk/summer-fun

    Listings are provided for each week of the school holidays, making it easy for families to find a free or low-cost activity in Leicester this summer.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Changes to services at Dornoch Service Point

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Users and customers of Dornoch Service Point are being advised by The Highland Council that the way in which services are being delivered at the Service Point is changing. 

    From Monday 4 August, customers will be able to: 

    • access pay, report and request services through a dedicated direct phone line in the library to a service specialist team. 
    • arrange appointments on request for registration (births, deaths, marriages) or general council services. 
    • buy Citylink bus tickets from library staff. 
    • receive advice and signposting from library staff. 

    Since 2019, there has been a fall in customers using the service point in Dornoch by over 50% and the service therefore needs to be delivered in a different way. 

    On average, there are now only 17 pay, report or request transactions per week.  90% of all births and deaths are now done by choice over the telephone rather than in the office. 

    The changes will take place from Monday 4 August when new ways of working will begin. This means that services will be available during library opening times. 

    The freephone facility to access Pay, Report and Request transactions will be available during office opening hours (Monday to Friday 9-5).  

    Services will be delivered in partnership with High Life Highland. 

    Service Point users will still be able to purchase CityLink bus Tickets from High Life Highland. 

    In person appointments can be requested via the Council’s Golspie office where a member of staff will attend in Dornoch for a pre-agreed appointment. 

    To register a birth or death, appointments will be made as they currently are via the Council’s registration offices.  People will continue to have a choice whether they wish to do this in person or over the telephone. 

    Phone: 01862 810594 or 01408 635218 

    Email: sutherland.registrars@highland.gov.uk 

    For any other queries please contact: sutherland.servicepoint@highland.gov.uk 

    9 Jul 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Governor of Jersey, Island Officials Meet Qatari Ambassador to UK

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Saint Helier, July 08, 2025

    HE Lieutenant-Governor of Jersey, a British Crown Dependency, and the King’s representative on the island Vice Admiral Sir Jerry Kyd, along with HE Chief Minister of Jersey Deputy Lyndon Farnham, and HE Deputy Bailiff of Jersey Robert MacRae met with HE Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the United Kingdom Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Saud Al-Thani.

    During the meeting, they discussed bilateral cooperation relations and ways to support and enhance them, particularly in the fields of financial services, taxation, and the economy.

    The officials of Jersey emphasized the importance of developing relations with the State of Qatar and strengthening long-term bilateral cooperation.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Receives Phone Call from Federal Chancellor of Austria

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Doha, July 09, 2025

    HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani received a phone call on Wednesday from HE Federal Chancellor of the Republic of Austria Christian Stocker.

    During the call, they discussed cooperation relations and ways to support and strengthen them, in addition to the latest developments in the region, particularly in the Gaza Strip and the occupied Palestinian territories, as well as a number of issues of common interest.

    HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed the State of Qatar’s continued efforts, in cooperation with regional and international partners, to de-escalate tensions and promote stability and peace in the region.

    His Excellency emphasized the importance of international solidarity to pressure all parties for the success of the State of Qatar’s joint mediation efforts aimed at achieving a ceasefire in Gaza, securing the release of hostages and detainees, and ensuring the entry of humanitarian aid to address the dire situation in the Strip.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Convicted criminal Trump should not be welcomed in Scotland

    Source: Scottish Greens

    09 Jul 2025 External Affairs

    Scotland must make it clear – Trump is not welcome here.

    More in External Affairs

    The President of the United States and convicted criminal Donald Trump is set to visit Scotland later this month, according to latest reports.

    The US President was found guilty of 34 felonies in 2023 relating to falsified business records, after he paid $130,000 in hush money to cover up an affair with an American porn star. Trump also has dozens of sexual assault allegations against him dating back to the 1970’s.

    The Scottish Greens have long called for an investigation into Donald Trump’s finances in Scotland through an Unexplained Wealth Order (UWO).

    A UWO is a power held by the Scottish Government to investigate the finances of politically active individuals who have gained wealth through suspicious means. Given Donald Trump’s Menie Estate golf course, which he is set to visit this month, was cited in one of his felony charges, it’s now clearer than ever that a UWO must be used.

    Scottish Greens Co-Leader Patrick Harvie MSP said:

    “There is no way that Donald Trump should be welcomed to Scotland. He is a convicted felon and political extremist who has shown a complete lack of respect for human rights and democracy in America and around the world.

    “His Vice President has attacked the democratic system of Scotland when he lied about a bill my colleague Gillian Mackay passed and his former billionaire bestie Elon Musk has spread misinformation about our country online, as well as other far right conspiracy theories.

    “At home, Donald Trump has sent troops onto the streets to threaten his own citizens, he is constructing a concentration camp in Florida and he has underfunded crucial services which have already cost the lives of working-class people.

    “Not to mention his contempt for international law by welcoming Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netenyahu to Washington D.C. – a man who has an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court for war crimes – and celebrating the collective punishment of innocent civilians in Gaza and the West Bank.

    “I am urging the SNP Government to make it clear that Trump is not welcome in Scotland. Because I am sure that on the streets of Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen and anywhere else he may go, the people of Scotland will make it clear that Donald Trump is not welcome here.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung UK Launches 100-Day Return Guarantee for New Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung has announced one of its most compelling customer promises to date. From today, customers who purchase a new Galaxy Z Fold7, Z Flip7 or Z Flip7 FE can take advantage of a 100-day return window[1] – the longest return promotion ever offered on a Galaxy device.
     
    The new ‘buy and try’ promotion means that customers can experience everything that the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 has to offer, including Galaxy AI capabilities, before making a long-term decision about the device.
     
    To be eligible, customers must pre-order or purchase a Galaxy Z Fold7, Z Flip7 or Z Flip7 FE mobile device in store or online between Wednesday 9 July – Tuesday 19 August and register for the promotion within 30 days of purchase at samsungoffers.claims/ukbuyandtry. Customers who purchase and register within this window will also receive a complementary case.
     
    If a customer decides the device is not for them, so long as it remains in good condition the customer can complete a claim to return it between 45 – 100 days after purchase to receive 100% of the purchase price paid.
     
    Annika Bizon, Mobile Experience VP of Product and Marketing, Samsung UK & Ireland, says: “Choosing a new smartphone is a big decision and people need peace of mind that they’re making the right call. Our “buy and try” offer gives people an extra layer of reassurance when making such a significant purchase. The Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 mark a new era of innovation in the smartphone industry, and are the perfect devices to experience all the best features that Galaxy has to offer.”
     
    For more details please visit: https://samsungoffers.claims/ukbuyandtry.
    .
    [1]Purchase a SIM-free Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7, Z Flip7 or Z Flip FE from a participating retailer before 19/08/2025 and register for the promotion using link below within 30 days. If dissatisfied, the product may be returned in good condition to Samsung 45-100 days after purchase (or delivery in the case of pre-orders) and Samsung will pay the purchase price (capped at RRP) by bank transfer. Maximum one claim per individual and two per household / business. For full terms and more information see https://samsungoffers.claims/ukbuyandtry.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: President of Human Rights Council appoints Max du Plessis of South Africa as member of Iran fact-finding mission

    Source: APO


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    The President of the Human Rights Council, Ambassador Jürg Lauber (Switzerland), has announced the appointment of Mr. Max du Plessis of South Africa to serve as an independent member of the Fact-Finding Mission on the Islamic Republic of Iran. Mr. du Plessis replaces Ms. Shaheen Sardar Ali of Pakistan on the three-member investigative panel and joins Ms. Sara Hossain of Bangladesh and Ms. Viviana Krsticevic of Argentina. Ms. Hossain serves as chair of the Fact-Finding Mission.

    The Human Rights Council established the Fact-Finding Mission with resolution S-35/1 of 24 November 2022, adopted at a special session, to “investigate alleged human rights violations in the Islamic Republic of Iran related to the protests that began on 16 September 2022, especially with respect to women and children”. The three-person Mission was further requested to “establish the facts and circumstances surrounding the alleged violations and collect, consolidate and analyse evidence of such violations and preserve evidence, including in view of cooperation in any legal proceedings”.

    The mandate of the Fact-Finding Mission was subsequently extended for one year with resolution 55/19 of 4 April 2024 entitled “Situation of human rights in the Islamic Republic of Iran.” 

    In April 2025, with its resolution 58/21, the Council extended the Fact-Finding Mission’s mandate for an additional year and expanded its scope to, among other things, thoroughly and independently monitor and investigate allegations of recent and ongoing serious human rights violations in Iran. This resolution requests the Fact-Finding Mission to present a report to the Human Rights Council at its 61st session in February/March 2026, and to present an oral update, to be followed by an interactive dialogue, to the United Nations General Assembly at its 80th session (2025-2026).

    Mr. du Plessis is a South African barrister and academic whose career has been characterised by his involvement on justice and human rights issues. He has a Bachelor of Laws from the University of South Africa and the University of Natal (South Africa), completed his Master of Laws at the University of Cambridge (United Kingdom) and completed his PhD studies at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (South Africa).

    His legal career began in 2000 when he became an advocate at the High Court of South Africa. His expertise in international, administrative, and constitutional law lead to a role as a senior research fellow in the International Crime in Africa Programme at the Institute for Security Studies. Mr. du Plessis has practiced law in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and has been a visiting expert at the International Criminal Court.

    Throughout his career Mr. du Plessis has been an adjunct professor at the University of Cape Town and Nelson Mandela University. He also served as a visiting professor at Law Futures Centre, Griffith University (Australia), Oxford Institute for Ethics, Law and Armed Conflict, Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford (United Kingdom), St. John’s College, University of Cambridge (United Kingdom), the London School of Economics (United Kingdom), Harvard Kennedy School, Harvard University (United States), and others.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations: Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £2 million boost to fix and future-proof Plymouth’s public buildings

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Plymouth City Council has approved a £2 million capital programme to carry out urgent and essential repairs across its estate — a major step forward in improving the safety, condition, and long-term sustainability of the city’s public buildings.

    The Council’s estate includes more than 240 buildings across 135 sites — from civic offices and libraries to depots, public toilets, and heritage buildings. Many of these are ageing and complex to maintain, with some dating back hundreds of years.

    The new Facilities Management (FM) Capital Programme means the Council can get on with urgent repairs more quickly, with a single pot of funding that allows the team to prioritise the most important work and speed up the procurement process. It also helps the Council plan better, buy smarter, and make the most of every pound spent.

    Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Housing, Cooperative Development and Communities, said: “This investment is about making sure our buildings are safe, functional, and fit for the future. We know there have been challenges in how we’ve managed our estate, and this is a clear sign of our commitment to doing better — for our staff, our residents, and our city.”

    The investment comes at a time when local authorities across the country are facing significant financial pressures. Reduced government funding and rising costs in the construction and maintenance sectors have made it increasingly difficult to keep up with the demands of a large and ageing estate.

    Despite these challenges, the Council has already begun delivering a wide-ranging improvement programme in FM. This includes:
    • Investment in better systems and data collection and management to support planned maintenance.
    • Recruitment plan for a new leadership team, including a permanent Head of FM, Hard FM Operational Manager, Fire Safety Advisor, Building Asset Manager, Contracts Manager
    • FM Service Structure that supports the delivery of the service.
    • Compliance audit across the estate

    The £2 million programme will be overseen by a new FM Governance Board, with clear criteria for prioritising works and ensuring transparency.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –