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Category: France

  • MIL-OSI China: Cannes roundtable explores new era for Chinese cinema

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    A roundtable on “Exploring China’s Film Narratives in a New Era” brought together Chinese and international filmmakers at the Marché du Film during the 78th Cannes Film Festival, aiming to strengthen cross-cultural dialogue and boost the global appeal of Chinese cinema.

    (From left) Cedric Behrel, Chen Sicheng, Chen Yu and moderator Silvia Wong join the panel roundtable “Exploring China’s Film Narratives in a New Era” during the 78th Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France, May 20, 2025. [Photo courtesy of China Film Association]

    Deng Guanghui, executive president of the China Film Association, noted in his opening remarks that 2025 marks the 120th anniversary of Chinese cinema and highlighted the industry’s evolution from technical innovation to greater cultural depth.

    “In recent years, supportive policies have driven both creative and industrial growth. Chinese filmmakers are advancing aesthetic traditions while developing unique styles in content, technology and global outreach. They continue to tell original, powerful stories to audiences worldwide,” Deng said.

    China is home to the world’s second-largest film market, Deng said, noting that the government is encouraging more crossover initiatives such as “film plus tourism” and “film plus consumer experiences” to grow the market and promote global development.

    “Chinese cinema will remain open and inclusive, working with international filmmakers to tell stories of our shared future,” he said.

    The panel featured renowned filmmaker Chen Sicheng, screenwriter and Peking University professor Chen Yu, and Cedric Behrel, managing director of Trinity CineAsia, as keynote speakers.

    Chen Sicheng, creator of the hit “Detective Chinatown” franchise, shared insights into the series’ success, saying it has become increasingly difficult to satisfy audiences with single-genre films as new formats such as gaming and social media gain influence.

    “Filmmakers must adapt,” he said. “The ‘Detective Chinatown’ IP blends thriller, comedy and action while reflecting contemporary society. Both form and content need to resonate equally with Chinese audiences.”

    “Chinatown is a unique window and symbol of Chinese culture, especially abroad,” Chen said. “I wanted to tell a story about distinctly Chinese detectives on adventures overseas. Through this film, I hope international audiences can see Chinese cinema evolve. Did I expect its success? I was confident – good films will always find their audience.”

    Chen also revealed plans to set the next “Detective Chinatown” installment in London, but after visiting France, he is now considering filming in Paris and expanding the story across Europe.

    Screenwriter Chen Yu, known for his work on Zhang Yimou’s acclaimed films such as “Full River Red” and “Under the Light,” discussed trends among Chinese audiences. “Chinese viewers are paying more attention to the narrative itself. But this isn’t unique to China – we’re also seeing a global return to storytelling as a central focus,” Chen said. “Audiences generally hope to draw emotional and sentimental strength from films.”

    Cedric Behrel, whose company has handled numerous Chinese releases abroad, including the recent animated juggernaut “Ne Zha 2,” said China’s vast domestic market and its capacity for producing large-scale, high-quality films give it a distinct advantage in delivering the big-screen experiences audiences desire. He noted that as people worldwide spend more time on personal screens, Chinese cinema has an opportunity to stand out.

    He also pointed to China’s rich cultural heritage as a deep source of stories, noting that films like “Ne Zha 2” must balance staying true to local mythology while appealing to global audiences. For Behrel, the appeal lies in demonstrating that Chinese films can compete with Hollywood blockbusters and leading animation studios like Disney, Pixar and Japan’s anime industry.

    (From left) Chen Yu, Deng Guanghui, Chen Sicheng and Cedric Behrel pose for a photo after the panel roundtable at the 78th Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France, May 20, 2025. [Photo courtesy of China Film Association]

    Chen Sicheng spoke about his role in supporting young talent. He said film industrialization goes beyond visual effects–driven blockbusters, describing it as a systematic process that includes scriptwriting, production, post-production and marketing. Chen sees his company and his role as managing this pipeline to help young Chinese directors become more professional and to provide support where needed.

    Discussing his upcoming film “Malice,” which he produced and wrote and is set for release in July, Chen said the story addresses contemporary issues such as online public opinion and cyberbullying.

    Chen said problems on the internet are a global issue, not unique to China. Since the 1990s, the internet has driven significant progress but also brought challenges, as voices of authority have been drowned out and irrational opinions have come to dominate online discussions, distorting perspectives on politics, culture and the future of humanity.

    “While ‘Malice’ can’t fix these problems, films must reflect their time,” Chen said. “This movie will serve as a time capsule of the digital age and preserve our collective memory of these critical years.”

    Chen Yu also addressed another trending topic: artificial intelligence. He said AI will achieve significant progress and, as its internal systems become more complex, it may eventually develop a form of intelligence. While he views AI as a tool capable of creating many things, he emphasized that humans remain the true measure of all things. Artistic creation, he said, is driven by human flaws and hesitation – qualities that AI, as a rational tool, cannot replicate.

    “When art touches the softest parts of the human soul, AI cannot replace it,” he stressed.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: CIC Lyonnaise de Banque -Notice of Early Redemption-(ISIN Code: FR0000047789)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN OR INTO OR TO ANY JURISDICTION WHERE IT IS UNLAWFUL TO RELEASE, PUBLISH OR DISTRIBUTE THIS ANNOUNCEMENT (SEE “DISCLAIMER” BELOW).

    Paris, May, 26th, 2025

    Notice of Early Redemption

    To : (i)      The Noteholders of the below mentioned Notes;
    (ii)      Euronext Paris
    (iii)      Fiscal Agent.

    Dear Sirs,

    CIC Lyonnaise de Banque
    “Titres Participatifs” Variable Rate Notes issued on 28 May 1985 (the ‘’Notes”)

    (ISIN Code: FR0000047789)

    CIC Lyonnaise de Banque is the issuer (the “Issuer’’) of the Notes.

    In accordance with the terms and conditions of the Notes (the ‘’Conditions’’), the Issuer hereby gives notice that it is exercising in whole its right to redeem the Notes pursuant to the provision Redemption (‘’Remboursement’’) of the Listing Particulars (“Issuer Call Option”) of the Notes.

    We, the Issuer, instruct you as Fiscal Agent, to authorise the French Central Securities Depository to cancel the Notes redeemed on 30 June, 2025 (“Early Redemption Date”).

    For the purposes of the Issuer Call:

    (i) the Issuer Call Date will be 30 June, 2025; and
    (ii) the Optional Redemption Amount(s) or Early Redemption Amount excluding accrued interest is: EUR 300.68 per Denomination.

    Unless otherwise defined in this notice, capitalised terms used in this notice shall have the meaning given to them in the Listing Particulars (‘’Note d’Information’’) dated 1st June, 1985, as applicable, relating to the Notes.

    Yours faithfully,

    For and on behalf of

    CIC Lyonnaise de Banque

    By:

    Duly authorised

    DISCLAIMER
    This press release does not constitute an offer to purchase, or the solicitation of an offer to sell, the Instruments in the United States, Canada, Australia, or Japan or in any other jurisdiction, including France. The distribution of this press release in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by law. Persons into whose possession this press release comes are required to inform themselves and observe any such restrictions. No communication may be distributed to the public in any jurisdiction in which registration or approval is required. No action has been or will be taken in any jurisdiction where such action would be required; CIC Lyonnaise de Banque disclaims any liability for any violation by any person of such restrictions.

    Contacts
    Corporate Communications and Press Relations Department: +33 (0)1 53 48 26 00 – compresse@cic.fr
    Investor Relations: bfcm-web@creditmutuel.fr

    About CIC Lyonnaise de Banque

    A leading bank in the South-Eastern quarter of France, CIC Lyonnaise de Banque has a network of nearly 300 branches and 3,000 employees for its 1.3 million customers. To meet the needs of all economic players and to build a constantly performing offer on a daily basis, he combines the professions of finance, insurance, telephony and advanced technological services with a great financial strength reinforced by CIC Group and the Group parent company, Crédit Mutuel Alliance Fédérale. More information on CIC.fr

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Funding terror: how west Africa’s deadly jihadists get the money they need to survive

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Egodi Uchendu, Professor (of History and International Studies), University of Nigeria

    The west Africa–Sahel region has seen a proliferation of militant Islamist groups since the 1990s.

    One of the most vicious groups operating in the region is Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (Support Group for Islam and Muslims). The militant group emerged in 2017 in Algeria and Mali, and has targeted civilian populations.

    The UN listed the group as an al-Qaeda affiliate in 2018. Al-Qaeda is an Islamist organisation founded by Osama bin Laden in the 1980s.

    The 2024 global terrorism index listed Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin as one of the world’s most dangerous terrorist organisations. Its influence has expanded in most parts of the Sahel. The group emerged to strengthen the jihadist insurgency under al-Qaeda. It combines violence with diplomacy to expand its influence and challenge state authorities.

    Despite growing pressure from counter militancy campaigns spearheaded by local, regional and international militaries, Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin continues to survive and adapt by regrouping and reorganising. This was demonstrated in its latest operation in Burkina Faso in 2024. The group exerted significant control by closing schools, setting up taxation checkpoints and abducting locals.

    Its engagement in illicit economies has been key to the group’s successful expansion. This revenue is used to carry out devastating attacks.

    We research jihadi-based insurgencies, and have found that this is a common tactic among terrorist groups in the west Africa-Sahel axis, including Boko Haram militants.

    From our research, we find that Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin funds its activities by relying on

    • artisanal mining

    • kidnapping

    • livestock theft

    • money laundering.

    Dismantling the group’s illicit economies and blocking its financial flows are key to countering its activities.

    Financial resources

    The group needs money for fighting, and to sustain political and social influence in its areas of operation.

    Artisanal gold mining has proven to be a major factor in its expansion and resilience. In areas where the group exerts influence, illicit gold mining generates over US$30 billion annually. According to a report by Swissaid, a development group based in Switzerland, the main destinations for this gold are the United Arab Emirates, Turkey and Switzerland.

    The jihadists gain access to gold by controlling mining sites and transport routes to and from mines. They sometimes allow trusted allies, who include local armed groups, bandits and other criminal networks, to mine in exchange for a payout. The extent of gold mining funds is not exactly known, but the artisanal sites in areas controlled by the group have the capacity to produce 725 kilograms of gold per year, valued at US$34 million.

    Read more: West Africa could soon have a jihadist state – here’s why

    Another source of income – and political influence – is kidnapping for ransom. Kidnap victims include cattle owners, businessmen, state officials and foreigners. The group received a ₤30 million ransom in 2020 to release one French and two Italian hostages. Between 2017 and 2023, the group and its affiliated units were responsible for 845 out of approximately 1,100 recorded kidnappings in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger. Burkina Faso and Mali remain the epicentre of the group’s violent activities. In the first quarter of 2023, over 180 cases of kidnapping were recorded in these countries’ war-torn areas.

    Livestock theft has also been a critical source of funds. The practice of livestock theft as economic warfare and a means to generate funds has led to livestock being forcibly taken from herders who fail to pay zakat (a religious fee among Muslims) or subscribe to the group’s ideology. The stolen livestock are sold in Mali, Mauritania or Senegal. The ability to monetise stolen livestock makes their theft a cornerstone of the Sahelian war economy and a source of cash for weapons and vehicles.

    Money laundering is another illicit economy central to the militant group’s financing. It lends money to merchants, invests with banks and funds small shops with the aim of getting profits. This helps ensure a constant flow of money and provisions to support the group’s terrorist acts. It has attached much importance to this illicit economy, to the extent of assassinating those who interfere with its investments.

    Way out

    To cut down Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin’s financial base – and thereby weaken its capacity for militancy – counterinsurgency efforts need to take the following actions.

    • Government security actors should collaborate with local self-defence militias to regulate artisanal mining and thwart kidnappings.

    • Financial intelligence units need to identify merchants who receive money from the militant group to block the flow of illicit funds.

    Read more: Jihadism and coups in West Africa’s Sahel region: a complex relationship

    • Specialised courts that deal with money laundering and terrorism financing cases should be established and made operational in Burkina Faso and Mali, the epicentres of the group’s activities.

    • Burkina Faso and Mali should increase security around civilians to minimise civilian casualties from terror operations.

    Since finance is the basis of the militant group’s strength, regional security co-operation should be strengthened. This would help with systematically tracking illicit flows and stopping them.

    – Funding terror: how west Africa’s deadly jihadists get the money they need to survive
    – https://theconversation.com/funding-terror-how-west-africas-deadly-jihadists-get-the-money-they-need-to-survive-242306

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI China: Sabalenka, Zheng ease into French Open second round

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka and Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen of China both cruised into the second round of the French Open on Sunday.

    Sabalenka, a three-time Grand Slam champion, dominanted the match with a 6-1, 6-0 win over Russia’s Kamilla Rakhimova. Her best result at Roland Garros was a semifinal appearance two years ago.

    Eighth seed Zheng defeated former French Open finalist Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova 6-4, 6-3 in the opening round.

    “I’m happy to win this match, especially as I think she is a great opponent, playing really aggressively,” Zheng said afterwards.

    “The first match of the tournament is never easy, so I’m happy today and I’m really happy to be back at Roland Garros. Thanks to the crowd who supported me today,” she added.

    Zheng has now reached the second round at Roland Garros for the fourth straight year and extended her winning streak at the venue to seven matches, dating back to her gold medal run at Paris 2024. Zheng will next face Colombia’s Emiliana Arango.

    Elsewhere, China’s Yuan Yue fell to fourth-seeded Jasmine Paolini of Italy 6-1, 4-6, 6-3.

    Jasmine Paolini returns a shot during the women’s singles first round match between Jasmine Paolini of Italy and Yuan Yue of China at the French Open tennis tournament at Roland Garros, Paris, France, May 25, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Jing)

    Last year’s runner-up Paolini had to work harder for the win. Yuan led 3-2 in the deciding set before Paolini, fresh off her Italian Open victory, broke back and reeled off four straight games to close out the match.

    In the men’s draw, Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti, seeded eighth, advanced to the second round with a 7-5, 6-2, 6-0 victory over German qualifier Yannick Hanfmann.

    “I feel ready to try to go for the trophy,” said Musetti. “I think clay probably is the surface which I feel the most comfortable.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: SCIO briefs media on Yangtze River Economic Belt development in Hubei

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    SCIO briefs media on Yangtze River Economic Belt development in Hubei

    China SCIO | May 26, 2025

    The State Council Information Office (SCIO) recently organized a media trip for over 40 journalists to visit central China’s Hubei province and observe the progress of high-quality development along the Yangtze River Economic Belt. The group included foreign correspondents from the United States , France, Germany, Australia, Singapore, Indonesia, Iraq, Qatar, and Japan.

    A press briefing was held Thursday during the trip, where Cheng Yongwen, vice governor of Hubei province, briefed the media and answered questions.

    On May 22, 2025, the State Council Information Office holds a press briefing in Wuhan, Hubei province, about the high-quality development of the Yangtze River Economic Belt. [Photo by Liu Jian/China SCIO]

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Asia Pacific Report editor honoured for contribution to Pacific journalism

    Pacific Media Watch

    Asia Pacific Report editor David Robie was honoured with Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) at the weekend by the Governor-General, Dame Cindy Kiro, in an investiture ceremony at Government House Tāmaki Makaurau.

    He was one of eight recipients for various honours, which included Joycelyn Armstrong, who was presented with Companion of the King’s Service Order (KSO) for services to interfaith communities.

    Dr Robie’s award, which came in the King’s Birthday Honours in 2024 but was presented on Saturday, was for “services to journalism and Asia-Pacific media education”.

    His citation reads:

    Dr David Robie has contributed to journalism in New Zealand and the Asia-Pacific region for more than 50 years.

    Dr Robie began his career with The Dominion in 1965 and worked as an international journalist and correspondent for agencies from Johannesburg to Paris. He has won several journalism awards, including the 1985 Media Peace Prize for his coverage of the Rainbow Warrior bombing.

    He was Head of Journalism at the University of Papua New Guinea from 1993 to 1997 and the University of the South Pacific in Suva from 1998 to 2002. He founded the Pacific Media Centre in 2007 while professor of journalism and communications at Auckland University of Technology.

    He developed four award-winning community publications as student training outlets. He pioneered special internships for Pacific students in partnership with media and the University of the South Pacific. He has organised scholarships with the Asia New Zealand Foundation for student journalists to China, Indonesia and the Philippines.

    He was founding editor of Pacific Journalism Review journal in 1994 and in 1996 he established the Pacific Media Watch, working as convenor with students to campaign for media freedom in the Pacific.

    He has authored 10 books on Asia-Pacific media and politics. Dr Robie co-founded and is deputy chair of the Asia Pacific Media Network/Te Koakoa NGO.


    The investiture ceremony on 24 May 2025.      Video: Office of the Governor-General  

    In an interview with Global Voices last year, Dr Robie praised the support from colleagues and students and said:

    “There should be more international reporting about the “hidden stories” of the Pacific such as the unresolved decolonisation issues — Kanaky New Caledonia, “French” Polynesia (Mā’ohi Nui), both from France; and West Papua from Indonesia.

    “West Papua, in particular, is virtually ignored by Western media in spite of the ongoing serious human rights violations. This is unconscionable.”

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: New book about Polytechnic heroes: from T-34 to Operation Berezino

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    The TASS press center hosted a presentation of the book “Polytechnic. Fortitude. 1941-1945.” The author, leading specialist of the SPbPU History Museum Alexander Kobyshev, and the vice-rector for youth policy and communication technologies at SPbPU Maxim Pasholikov told journalists about the new edition, dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War.

    “The book ‘Polytechnic. Fortitude. 1941-1945’ is just one example of how the Polytechnic University preserves the memory of the Great Patriotic War,” began Maxim Pasholikov. “Back in 2004, students created the military-historical club ‘Our Polytechnic’, began studying archival documents, organizing search watches, hikes to battle sites, excursions and much more. In May, in Karelia, where the Polytechnicians fought in 1941, the military-patriotic rally ‘Syandeba. Connection of Generations’ was held for the twentieth time. For many years, students have been restoring the names of fallen soldiers, searching for personal files, and collecting them in an electronic Book of Memory. Last year, it was printed for the first time. And the new edition “Polytech. Fortitude. 1941–1945” continues the study of unknown pages in the history of our university.”

    The book “Polytechnic. Fortitude. 1941-1945” consists of two parts. The first describes the activities of the Leningrad Polytechnic Institute named after M. I. Kalinin during the Great Patriotic War – both in Leningrad and in evacuation, in Pyatigorsk and Tashkent. The second part is dedicated to the contribution of polytechnicians to the creation of the weapons of Victory. In addition to the already known names, readers will learn for the first time about more than 120 graduates of the institute who worked at the main defense enterprises and in intelligence.

    “Our task was to show the history of the institute as a whole and its influence on the course of World War II,” emphasized Alexander Kobyshev. “Probably, everyone has seen the “Weapons of Victory” coins issued by the Central Bank. Eight of the nineteen coins depict weapons developed by polytechnicians.”

    The famous T-34 tank was designed by Mikhail Koshkin, a graduate of the institute. Ivan Bushnev participated in the creation of the T-50 light tank, and the names of Nikolai Dukhov and Zhores Kotin are associated with the production of the KV-1, KV-2, IS-1, IS-2, and IS-3 heavy tanks. Polytechnicians also contributed to aviation. The first fighters were designed by Nikolai Polikarpov, seaplanes by Georgy Beriev, and combat gliders that delivered weapons and food were designed by Oleg Antonov.

    Vladimir Tsimbalin created a device to protect pilots from overloads in flight, Mikhail Berezina participated in the creation of aircraft guns. Yuri Baimakov came up with a technology for producing an alloy for fuses of Molotov cocktails. Fyodor Petrov developed the M-30 howitzer. During the war, every second mortar was made from pipes of the Nikopol South Pipe Metallurgical Plant, the evacuation of which to Pervouralsk was led by the director, a graduate of the metallurgical faculty of the Polytechnic University, Alexey Astakhov.

    “Almost all artillery is the result of the work of Polytechnic graduates: anti-aircraft guns, divisional guns, anti-tank guns, small artillery, mortars,” listed Alexander Kobyshev. “The Degtyarev anti-tank rifle is named after the bureau, but was developed by the group of Polytechnician Alexander Dementyev. The gas generator for the famous GAZ-AA truck was made by our graduate student and engineer Volodin. And the director of GAZ was our graduate Loskutov, who replaced the previous graduate, who, unfortunately, was arrested and died during the repressions. We provide a list of these people and a list of the factories where they worked. For us, this became a new understanding of the contribution of Polytechnicians to the Great Victory.”

    The book names 11 Polytechnicians who were Heroes of the Soviet Union, who received this title from 1941 to 1945. Among them is Marshal Leonid Govorov, a former Polytechnic student who was mobilized into the Russian Imperial Army during the First World War.

    The final chapter of the book is called “Behind the Front Lines” and is dedicated to intelligence officers.

    “The name of the first of them is well known – this is Hero of the Soviet Union Viktor Lyagin,” said Alexander Kobyshev. “We learned about the second one recently, this is a graduate of the electromechanical faculty, Alexander Demyanov. He was a double agent: the Germans called him Max, and ours – Heine. He led a radio game, thanks to which significant parts of the Wehrmacht were not transferred to Stalingrad, and we were able to win this decisive battle. After that, our graduate continued working in Operation Berezino in Belarus, for which Heine was awarded the Order of the Red Star, and Max received the Iron Cross with Swords. German intelligence officers highly valued him for the disinformation he supplied them with.”

    Aleksandr Nikolaevich shared a few more interesting facts about people who studied at the Polytechnic at different times. Thus, Marceli Porowski, a graduate of the economics department, fought during the Warsaw Uprising in 1944 and was the president of Warsaw. Nikolai Novik, a future member of the French Resistance, who was awarded the French Military Cross and the Order of the Legion of Honor, studied at the same economics department.

    Many archives are being declassified now, and every year we learn something new. I hope that students will join this work, and the chronicle of our university will be replenished, – Maxim Pasholikov summed up.

    “Polytechnic. Fortitude. 1941-1945” is the fourth book in the series of historical works by Alexander Kobyshev. The first, “Polytechnic. Beginning. 1899-1917”, was published for the 125th anniversary of Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University in a print run of 500 copies. All subsequent volumes were published in print runs of 200. As Alexander Nikolaevich said at a press conference, a total of seven books are planned. The fifth will cover the period from 1946 to 1960, the sixth – from 1960 to 1990, and the seventh – from 1990 to the present day.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Israel’s new aid delivery system for Gaza is sparking outrage. Why is it so problematic?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Amra Lee, PhD candidate in Protection of Civilians, Australian National University

    Some 2.1 million Gazans are facing critical hunger levels, with many at risk of famine following Israel’s 11-week blockade on aid intended to pressure Hamas.

    According to the United Nations, 57 children have already died from malnutrition since the aid blockade began on March 2. A further 14,000 children under 5 years old are at risk of severe cases of malnutrition over the next year.

    Last week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu permitted a limited number of aid trucks into Gaza amid increasing pressure from allies who have drawn a line at images of starving children.

    However, Israel is controversially planning to transfer responsibility for distributing aid in Gaza through a new system that would sideline the UN and other aid agencies that have been working there for decades.

    UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres swiftly rejected Israel’s new aid distribution system in Gaza, saying it breaches international law and humanitarian principles.

    In a joint statement, two dozen countries, including the UK, many European Union member states, Australia, Canada and Japan, have supported the UN’s position on the new model. The signatories said it won’t deliver aid effectively at the scale required, and would link aid to political and military objectives.

    The UK, Canada and France have further threatened to take “concrete actions” to pressure Israel to cease its military offence and lift restrictions on aid.

    And in another blow to the credibility of the new system, the head of the newly established Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, which will oversee the distribution of aid, resigned on Monday. He cited concerns over a lack of adherence to “humanitarian principles”.

    So, how will would this new aid delivery system work, and why is it so problematic?

    A military-led system with deep flaws

    Israel has relied on unsubstantiated claims of large-scale aid diversion by Hamas to justify taking control over aid delivery in Gaza. The UN and its humanitarian partners continue to refute such claims, publicly sharing details of their end-to-end monitoring systems.

    Yet, the new aid delivery initiative is vague on important details.

    Several reports have revealed the plan would establish four secure distribution sites for aid under Israeli military control in southern and central Gaza.

    Security would be provided by private military contractors, such as Safe Reach Solutions, run by a former CIA officer, while the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation would oversee the distribution of food.

    There is little clarity beyond this on who is behind the new system and who is funding it.

    The initiative has provoked strong reactions from the UN and the wider humanitarian aid system.

    Senior aid officials have underlined the fact the international aid system cannot support a military-led initiative that would breach international law and be incompatible with humanitarian principles of neutrality, impartiality and independence.

    There are also concerns the four distribution hubs would require individuals to travel long distances to collect and carry heavy packages. This could leave female-headed households, people with disabilities, those who are ill and the elderly at greater risk of exclusion and exploitation.

    In addition, a leaked UN memo reportedly expressed concern over UN involvement in the initiative, saying the organisation could be “implicated in delivering a system that falls short of Israel’s legal responsibilities as an occupying power”.

    There are further concerns the UN could be implicated in atrocity crimes, including a risk of genocide through its participation in the system, setting a dangerous precedent for future crises.

    Tom Fletcher, the UN relief chief, has called the plan “a deliberate distraction” and “a fig leaf for further violence and displacement”.

    Other rights groups have condemned the mandatory collection of biometric data, including facial recognition scans, at the distribution sites. This would make aid conditional on compliance with surveillance. It would also expand Israel’s controversial use of facial recognition technology to track and monitor Palestinians throughout Gaza.

    And famine expert Alex de Waal claims Israel has “taken a page from the colonial war handbooks” in weaponising food aid in pursuit of military victory.

    He argues the planned quantities of food aid will be insufficient and lack the specialised feeding necessary for malnourished children, in addition to clean water and electricity.

    What has not been stated but can be implied from the strong resistance to the new system lacking humanitarian expertise: the lack of good faith on Israel’s part. The Israeli government continues to pursue an elusive military victory at the expense of the rules and norms intended to preserve humanity in war.

    Wider pattern of behaviour

    The UN’s rebuke of the plan should be interpreted through a wider pattern of Israeli government behaviour undermining the international aid system and its role in upholding respect for humanitarian principles.

    These fundamental principles include respect for humanity, neutrality, impartiality and operational independence. As the joint statement by 24 nations on aid to Gaza this month said:

    Humanitarian principles matter for every conflict around the world and should be applied consistently in every war zone.

    International humanitarian law requires member states to respect – and ensure respect – for the rules of war. This includes taking all feasible measures to influence the parties engaged in a conflict to respect humanitarian law.

    Likewise, the Genocide Convention requires member states to take measures to prevent and punish genocide beyond their jurisdictions.

    As Fletcher, the UN relief chief, reminded the UN Security Council earlier this month, this hasn’t been done in past cases of large-scale violations of international human rights, such as in Srebrenica (in the former Yugoslavia) and Rwanda.

    He said reviews of the UN’s conduct in cases like these

    […] pointed to our collective failure to speak to the scale of violations while they were committed.

    While humanitarians are best placed to deliver aid, greater collective political action is what’s needed. Pressure now falls on all UN member states use their levers of influence to protect civilians and prevent the further weaponisation of aid at this critical time.

    Amra Lee 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. Israel’s new aid delivery system for Gaza is sparking outrage. Why is it so problematic? – https://theconversation.com/israels-new-aid-delivery-system-for-gaza-is-sparking-outrage-why-is-it-so-problematic-257347

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by SCST at Luxury Symposium 2025 (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Speech by SCST at Luxury Symposium 2025 (English only) 
    Mr Alain Li (President of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Hong Kong), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
    Good afternoon. It is truly my pleasure to be here at Luxury Symposium 2025, where leaders, experts and innovators from the global luxury industry gather together in the metropolitan city of Hong Kong to explore the future of luxury. And indeed, my activities today are intertwined. I met with the Hong Kong Retail Management Association just now, then I came to this Symposium, then I will go back for a meeting to prepare for our next peak of visitor arrival. This pretty much shows the importance of tourism and luxury spending and luxury sales on my radar screen.
     
    This year marks the 10th anniversary and this is the ninth edition of the Luxury Symposium series. Since its inception in 2016, the Symposium has established itself as a renowned platform for exploring the evolution of luxury and fostering meaningful dialogue. I’m most pleased to welcome distinguished speakers, world-class brands and passionate participants, many of you would be our old friends while some may have come our way for the first time. For this special milestone, the return of Luxury Symposium 2025 to Hong Kong is a firm testimony of Hong Kong’s unique position as Asia’s Events Capital, an international hub for arts and culture, and a shopper’s paradise.
     
    Hong Kong has a long and rich East-meets-West historical legacy. And with the strong support of the Central People’s Government, Hong Kong is striving to further develop this unique asset for the benefit of fostering deepened international cultural co-operation. Specifically, our role is the “super-connector” between our motherland and the rest of the world. 2025 has been nothing short of remarkable for Hong Kong’s cultural and creative scene. We have successfully hosted iconic international events like Art Basel and Art Central, which were warmly received by over 100 000 participants, including artists, galleries, art collectors and enthusiasts, and about 50 per cent of them were from outside of Hong Kong.
     
    Indeed, in the last couple of years, and indeed even right now, our M+ museum in West Kowloon and our Museum of Art have been staging exquisite exhibitions with modern and unique curation of Yayoi Kusama, I M Pei, Pablo Picasso, Renoir and Cézanne. These exhibitions are primarily in the area of visual arts, and an ability for Hong Kong people and our visitors to appreciate, and an instinct to achieve beauty and awe, is the fundamental driver for the creation and acquisition of sublime art pieces, many of which actually take the form of luxurious goods. Hong Kong has long been aware of the importance of, and actively fosters, the development of arts, culture and creative industries. Last year in November, we have introduced the Blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development. And “Develop Diverse Arts and Culture Industries with International Perspective” was one of the four strategic directions. I’m glad to see that Luxury Symposium 2025, by applying a unique perspective from global leaders of the industry, will generate innovative and inspirational ideas that benefit the long-term development of the luxury and relevant industries here in Hong Kong and globally.
     
    Apart from showcasing brilliant arts talent, we have also brought world-class fashion to our shores. An iconic example was the unforgettable Louis Vuitton’s Men’s Pre-fall fashion show in Hong Kong in end November 2023, which was the first ever runway show to stage against our iconic Victoria Harbour and the spectacular skyline along the Avenue of Stars. With the Government’s full facilitation, the event reached over 560 million views worldwide, showcasing Hong Kong’s unique allure to a global audience. Another one would be Chanel’s Cruise 2024/25 Show which creatively took place in the Hong Kong Design Institute in November 2024. The event not only successfully drew a big crowd of celebrities and fashion icons to Hong Kong, but also connected cinema lovers through film-related talks and happenings at Shaw Studios, taking note of the fact that cinema has always been at the heart of the brand. The event reaffirms the brand’s commitment to the city through celebrating the heritage and spirit of the collection, all the while paying tribute to the culture of Hong Kong.
     
    We certainly welcome more mega events, including luxurious brand events, with open arms and will be most happy to act as a strong facilitator. Of course, apart from government action, it takes joint efforts and collective wisdom from both local and international stakeholders, to cultivate an organic ecosystem for the development of arts, culture and creative industries on Hong Kong’s fertile soil. 
     
    Luxury should not just be about expensive art pieces or goods that are beyond the reach of ordinary people. Everyone needs and deserves a bit a luxury, be it peace of the mind, ample me-time, tranquil lifestyle, a super fine culinary experience, or just a bit of glitter once in a while. It is more about things in life that bring a joy so special or satisfying that it cannot be replaced by much else, so that one feels a desire to own it, to touch it and to come to it. It can mean different things to different people. And some of the things might be ultra expensive, but some are simply one of a kind, treasurable, without being overly costly. 
          
    The theme of this year’s Symposium is “Hong Kong Zoom in, Zoom out – The Asia edition”. Let us now zoom in a little bit and zoom out a little bit to see what Hong Kong has to offer. 
     
    Zooming in, Hong Kong is dedicated to advancing our infrastructure and enriching the content of our offering to drive new experiences and visitor engagement. The newly opened state-of-the-art Kai Tak Sports Park which hosted world-class events like Coldplay concerts and the Hong Kong International Rugby Sevens provide unforgettable excitement while fresh tourism initiatives announced last week like Hong Kong Industrial Brand Tourism, in-depth travel in Kowloon City and Old Town Central, rejuvenation of the Former Yau Ma Tei Police Station etc. There is no shortage of fun and nostalgia of Hong Kong’s cultural legacy.
     
    Zooming out, we are strengthening global connections by actively initiating, supporting or participating in platforms for arts and cultural exchange, to name a few, the Asia Cultural Co-operation Forum where cultural administrators exchange views of cultural policies, and the Hong Kong Performing Arts Expo newly launched in 2024 that brought together global arts institutions and practitioners for business partnerships and promotion of the industry all in one go. The Luxury Symposium is another precious piece in this puzzle – it is a platform for Hong Kong to connect with international peers, exchange ideas, gain experience, and explore opportunities for collaboration and innovation. These initiatives are introduced not only by the Government, but also the industries and various institutions.
     
    Ladies and gentlemen, rapid and vigorous changes have been taking place in our current world, and definitely to the luxury industry. It has come to my attention that a specific part on tackling talent challenges will be presented in our Symposium later today. Apart from talent, shifting market trends and customer preference, as well as technological advancement, all pose challenges to the luxury industry, particularly in this volatile age of geopolitical tension. Faced with evolving challenges of changing spending patterns and tourist behaviours every day, I always advocate an active approach to discover the opportunities that come with the challenges. At this year’s Luxury Symposium, we all have the privilege to learn about insightful thoughts on the future of luxury from leaders of the industry, academia and a wide range of related sectors with diversified backgrounds. When rivers of thought converge, civilisations bloom in shared moonlight, and the potential of the industry can then be fully unleashed. It is through collaboration, creativity, and shared wisdom that we can unlock one another’s potential as a vibrant, global industry.
     
    Before I close, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Hong Kong for your unwavering dedication in organising the Luxury Symposium year after year. Your effort continues to strengthen the bond between Hong Kong and France while enriching cultural exchange on a global scale. My special thanks also go to the distinguished speakers, participating brands, collaborating organisations and amazing attendants like every one of you here and online. I wish Luxury Symposium 2025 a resounding success and all of you a fruitful journey of discovery, innovation and luxury in Hong Kong.
     
    Thank you.
    Issued at HKT 17:06

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Eviden introduces SkyMon NG, a satellite monitoring system addressing the new era of digital and modular space systems

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release

    Eviden introduces SkyMon NG, a satellite monitoring system addressing the new era of digital and modular space systems

    Cloud-ready and powered by AI, SkyMon NG enhances interference prediction and operational efficiency

    Paris, France – May 26, 2025 – Eviden, the Atos Group business leading in digital, cloud, big data and security today announces the initial rollout of SkyMon NG1, a next-generation satellite monitoring solution. SkyMon NG enables satellite operators to efficiently manage the complexity of digital satellite communication systems, including dynamic behaviors like beam hopping and onboard processing, while providing regulators with greater visibility and control over spectrum usage. It solves key challenges around real-time monitoring, resource optimization, helping operators deliver higher performance with lower operational costs with virtualized ground station capability, allowing them to allocate their frequency resources where needed.

    As next-generation satellites evolve from static payloads to flexible, software-defined systems, monitoring must also adapt to keep pace with their dynamic, reconfigurable behavior—especially in an era of growing spectrum congestion and quality of service demands.

    Supporting the monitoring of the new dynamic behavior of VHTS (Very High Throughput) satellites with onboard processing and beam hopping, SkyMon NG is designed to give operators and regulators faster situational awareness, improved visibility into satellite activity, and early detection of anomalies.

    The growing complexity of satellite ground infrastructures spanning from on-premise to cloud, now demands cloud-ready monitoring systems. To address this challenge, SkyMon NG cloud-ready architecture ensures seamless integration with hybrid or fully cloud-based infrastructures.

    SkyMon NG includes AI features to effectively detect interferences and compared with previous conventional system, improving the classification of the interference’s source.

    Designed with customer needs in mind, SkyMon NG offers a phased approach to upgrading from legacy systems, reducing the need for major infrastructure upgrades. Its adaptable architecture allows operators to leverage existing servers and infrastructure, helping to keep costs down while gaining access to next-generation technology.

    Bruno Milard, Head of Aerospace & Defense Electronics, Mission-Critical Systems, Eviden at Atos Group, said: “With our new SkyMon NG solution, Eviden is proud to provide a next-generation option that builds on our company’s core expertise while introducing cutting-edge capabilities. With ability to monitor high-throughput and beam hopping satellites, and its cloud-ready architecture, SkyMon NG ensures efficient use of satellite resources, providing a strategic edge for operators looking to optimize satellite performance in variable-demand environments.”

    ***

    About Eviden [1]

    Eviden is a next-gen technology leader in data-driven, trusted and sustainable digital transformation with a strong portfolio of patented technologies. With worldwide leading positions in advanced computing, security, AI, cloud and digital platforms, it provides deep expertise for all industries in more than 47 countries. Bringing together 41,000 world-class talents, Eviden expands the possibilities of data and technology across the digital continuum, now and for generations to come. Eviden is an Atos Group company with an annual revenue of c. € 5 billion.

    Eviden business is operated through the following brands: AppCentrica, ATHEA, Cloudamize, Cloudreach, Cryptovision, DataSentics, Edifixio, Engage ESM, Evidian, Forensik, IDEAL GRP, In Fidem, Ipsotek, Maven Wave, Profit4SF, SEC Consult, Visual BI, X-Perion. Eviden is a registered trademark. © Eviden SAS, 2025.

    About Atos Group

    Atos Group is a global leader in digital transformation with c. 72,000 employees and annual revenue of c. € 10 billion, operating in 68 countries under two brands — Atos for services and Eviden for products. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, Atos Group is committed to a secure and decarbonized future and provides tailored AI-powered, end-to-end solutions for all industries. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea) and listed on Euronext Paris.

    The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.

    Press contact

    Isabelle Grangé | isabelle.grange@atos.net | +33 (0) 6 64 56 74 88

    1 SkyMon is a registered trademark.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese director Bi Gan wins Special Prize at Cannes

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Chinese director Bi Gan won the Special Prize on May 25 at the 78th Cannes Film Festival for his epic fiction feature “Resurrection.”

    Director Bi Gan (center) poses with cast members of “Resurrection” on the red carpet at the film’s premiere during the 78th Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France, May 22, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Lima Media]

    Visionary auteur Bi’s “Resurrection” premiered on Thursday at Cannes to a 10-minute standing ovation and widespread critical acclaim. The art house sensation, starring Yi Yangqianxi, Shu Qi, Mark Chao and Li Gengxi, represents the sole Chinese-language contender in the main competition.

    In his acceptance speech, Bi expressed gratitude to the festival, jurors and all those who contributed to his film’s creation on behalf of the cast and crew. 

    The film has not yet set a release date, but it has sold widely following its world premiere, with companies from Italy, Germany, Spain, Greece, Switzerland, South Korea and others acquiring distribution rights.

    “Resurrection” unfolds through labyrinthine-like six sensory chapters of “visual,” “auditory,” “gustatory,” “olfactory,” “tactile” and “consciousness,” mirroring the Buddhist philosophy of the six senses. Set in a world where humanity has lost the ability to dream, one creature remains entranced by fading illusions — until a woman with the rare gift of perception appears, and she ventures into the monster’s dreams to uncover their hidden truth. The director uses this two-hour-and-forty-minute film to showcase his love for cinema, while framing a century-spanning fever dream through sensory and mental dimensions.

    On May 23, Bi Gan and the creative team took part in a Cannes press conference to discuss the film’s creative process. When addressing his signature long takes, Bi called them his “most familiar technique,” while Yi Yangqianxi revealed their pivotal sequence took 15 consecutive days of midnight-to-sunrise filming, completed with “ideal weather conditions.” Bi elaborated on the leads: “Yi’s character Fantasmer drifts frenziedly through time and space, while Shu Qi’s embodies absolute rationality — yet becomes mesmerized by his character.”

    Within the film’s setting, Yi portrays five distinct roles across the chapters — marking his first multi-character performance. He meticulously crafted their unique voices, postures and movements to embody the director’s vision, creating instantly recognizable traits for these multiple identities.

    Renowned Chinese sci-fi writer Chen Qiufan, who served as script consultant for “Resurrection,” described the film as “sci-fi poetry cinema” at a Cannes event on May 19 and revealed his frequent discussions with the director about consciousness.

    The film is Bi Gan’s first feature since the 2018 festival sensation “Long Day’s Journey into Night,” a groundbreaking 3D experiment. Festival organizers described his work as a showcase of his evolving creativity that maintains the sensory and poetic qualities defining his style. They also noted that at just 35 years old, he has established himself as a major force in shaping China’s new generation of art house cinema since his directorial debut “Kaili Blues” a decade ago.

    At the post-closing ceremony press conference on May 25, jury president Juliette Binoche revealed the jury unanimously created this special award for Bi because of the film’s singular creativity, stating, “‘Resurrection’ is like a UFO — an amazing invention.”

    Binoche also remarked on the film’s uniqueness. “Visually, it really moved me. I found it extraordinary. This film allows for dreams, subtexts that we feel and that are real. It’s full of poetry and allows us to feel something within ourselves,” she said.

    Bi added, explaining his inspiration: “There should be a film about the cinema that can comfort people in this world full of changes.”

    This year’s Cannes Film Festival featured 22 films competing for its top honor — the Palme d’Or. The competition section awards were announced at the festival’s closing ceremony. The Palme d’Or went to Iranian director Jafar Panahi’s “Un Simple Accident.” Joachim Trier’s “Sentimental Value” received the Grand Prix, while the Jury Prize was shared by Oliver Laxe’s “Sirat” and Mascha Schilinski’s “Sound of Falling.” The night’s big winner was Brazil’s “The Secret Agent,” earning best director for Kleber Mendonça Filho and best actor for Wagner Moura. Best actress went to Nadia Melliti for “The Little Sister,” and Belgium’s Dardenne brothers claimed best screenplay for “Young Mothers.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – The United Nations Ocean Conference, Nice, France, 9-13 June 2025 – 22-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    This briefing is prepared for the European Parliament delegation to the third United Nations Ocean Conference, which will take place in Nice, France, from 9-13 June 2025. It provides an overview of the initiatives at the international and European level that aim to conserve and sustainably use the oceans and presents the key topics that will be addressed at the conference.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The specific challenges of EU external border regions with migration – E-001080/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission acknowledges the challenges faced by EU external border regions, including by outermost regions, such as the Canary Islands, Mayotte and French Guiana .

    The Commission supports these regions with several EU funds, such as the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF), and encourages the relevant Member States to ensure that this funding addresses the challenges in those regions without unnecessary administrative burden .

    The co-legislators did not introduce subnational allocations within the regulation (EU) 2021/1147[1] (AMIF) nor in the regulation (EU) 2021/1060[2] (the Common Provision Regulation) laying down common provisions on EU funds, including AMIF. The Commission is not planning to propose a revision of the criteria for the allocation of funding at this stage of the programming period.

    Member States are duly informed and, when relevant, involved in the migration dialogues with third countries, notably in the framework of relevant Council meetings.

    It is the responsibility of Member States to involve external border or outermost regions in the preparatory works for such dialogues.

    • [1] OJ L 251, 15.7.2021, p. 1-47.
    • [2] OJ L 231, 30.6.2021, p. 159-706.
    Last updated: 26 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Temporary fishing restriction in the Bay of Biscay – E-001224/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The closure[1] is based on the scientific advice from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) of 29 June 2023[2]. According to ICES, six of the scenarios proposed in the advice are likely to reduce incidental catches of dolphins below the potential biological removal (PBR) limit, but only for data from at-sea sampling.

    Also, according to ICES none of the scenarios would result in a reduction in annual dolphin mortality below the PBR for data from both at-sea sampling and strandings.

    It also advised that closures are likely to be the most effective short-term measure for reducing bycatches. The closure was adopted through regionalisation based on a joint recommendation submitted by the relevant Member States[3] and following consultations with the Scientific, Technical and Economic Committee for Fisheries (STECF) and the Expert Group on Fisheries and Aquaculture.

    According to a report on the closure implemented in winter period 2023-2024[4], bycatches decreased from an annual average of 6100 dolphins between 2017 and 2023 to 1450 in the winter period 2023/2024. This is the lowest bycatch estimate since 2015.

    Ongoing research efforts on long-term mitigation measures should soon deliver results. These measures may include acoustic deterrent devices, modifications on the fishing gears, reduction of fishing effort and different types of closures. Any different approach has to be supported with scientific evidence.

    The fishing activity in the Bay of Biscay is regulated by other measures such as fishing opportunities. Member States have adopted strategies to gradually consume their quota throughout the year and to adjust it to market prices and needs. The Commission is not aware of changes in the fishing pattern of the type suggested.

    • [1] Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2024/3089 of 30 September 2024 amending Regulation (EU) 2019/1241 as regards measures to reduce incidental catches of common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) and other small cetaceans in the Bay of Biscay: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg_del/2024/3089/oj/eng.
    • [2] ICES(2023). EU request on mitigation measures to reduce bycatches of common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) in the Bay of Biscay (ICES Subarea 8). ICES Advice: Special Requests: https://ices-library.figshare.com/articles/report/EU_request_on_mitigation_measures_to_reduce_bycatches_of_common_dolphin_Delphinus_delphis_in_the_Bay_of_Biscay_ICES_Subarea_8_/23515176/1.
    • [3] France, Spain, Portugal, The Netherlands and Belgium.
    • [4] Bilan des mortalités par capture : hiver 2024 — https://www.observatoire-pelagis.cnrs.fr/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2b-Bilan-des-mortalites_hiver2024_20241115_PeltieretAl.pdf.
    Last updated: 26 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hospital Authority and National Conference of University Hospital General Managers of France sign declaration of intent (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

    The Hospital Authority (HA) and the National Conference of University Hospital General Managers of France signed a three-year declaration of intent today (May 26) to strengthen collaboration and exchanges between the two parties in various areas of hospital management and development, including promoting green hospital initiatives and the development of smart hospital, coping with an ageing population, and research and innovation.
     
    The signing ceremony was held during the HA Convention 2025. The Special Envoy of the President of the National Conference of University Hospital General Managers, Mr Frédéric Rimattei, and the HA Chief Executive, Dr Tony Ko, signed the three-year (2025-2028) declaration of intent, witnessed by the Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau, Mrs Christile Drulhe; the Counsellor for Health, Social Affairs and Labor from the Embassy of France in China, Mr Romain Jacquet; the Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau; and the HA Chairman, Mr Henry Fan.
     
    The National Conference of University Hospital General Managers is composed of 32 university hospital centres in France, covering about 40 per cent of the public healthcare services in the country, and is responsible for promoting the development of medical education and clinical research. Mr Fan said that there is ample room for collaboration between the two parties in various healthcare-related areas. The signing of the declaration of intent has laid the foundation for various collaborative initiatives in the future.
     
    Mr Fan said, “The French public healthcare system is highly acclaimed internationally, and we have much to learn from each other. I look forward to deepening our collaboration in the future, particularly in the areas of sustainable development of the healthcare system, application of smart technologies, talent exchange and training, as well as research and innovation to jointly enhance the quality and standards of healthcare services.”
     
    The President of the National Conference of University Hospital General Managers, Mr Philippe El Saïr, said, “We are delighted to embark on an extensive collaboration with the HA. I believe that both parties will leverage their respective strengths, share experiences and expertise in various aspects of hospital management and development, and promote in-depth exchanges among healthcare professionals in the two places, as well as explore opportunities for clinical research collaboration in different areas.”
     
    Going forward, the HA and the National Conference of University Hospital General Managers will organise regular meetings to plan various collaborative initiatives in detail, and actively arrange reciprocal visits and exchange activities to jointly foster the development of healthcare services in both places.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • India now exports trains to the world: PM Modi in Dahod

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday emphasized the transformative growth of India’s railway sector over the past decade, underscoring the expansion of metro services and the introduction of semi-high-speed trains like the Vande Bharat Express.
     
    Addressing a public event in Dahod, PM Modi announced the launch of a new Vande Bharat Express connecting Ahmedabad to Veraval, further strengthening connectivity in the state. He noted that Vande Bharat trains now run on nearly 70 routes across India, reflecting the country’s rapid strides in modern transport infrastructure.
     
    “The progress of India’s railways is directly linked to our technological advancements. Today, coaches and locomotives are manufactured domestically, reducing our dependence on imports,” the Prime Minister said.
     
    PM Modi stated that India has emerged as a global exporter of railway equipment, exporting metro coaches to Australia and train coaches to England, Saudi Arabia, and France. He also added that Mexico, Spain, Germany, and Italy are among the countries importing railway-related components from India.
     
    “Passenger coaches made in India are being used in Mozambique and Sri Lanka. Our locomotives are now reaching multiple countries, a testament to the growing strength of the ‘Make in India’ initiative,” he said.
     
    The Prime Minister said that a strong railway network not only enhances passenger convenience but also accelerates industrial and agricultural growth. Highlighting Gujarat’s development, he said that several parts of the state, which earlier had only narrow-gauge and slow-moving trains, have now been brought into the mainstream with expanded connectivity.
     
    PM Modi announced the inauguration of new railway routes, including a key express service between Dahod and Valsad, which he said would greatly benefit the tribal regions of the state.
     
    Focusing on local development, the Prime Minister said the newly set-up rail factory in Dahod will manufacture 9,000-horsepower locomotives, some of the most powerful engines in India. He informed that each locomotive produced will carry the name ‘Dahod’, turning the city into a key manufacturing hub.
     
    “Hundreds of locomotives will be built here in the coming years, creating large-scale employment opportunities for local youth,” he said.
     
    He added that this development would also boost small-scale industries and MSMEs that supply railway components, paving the way for economic growth in surrounding regions.
     
    “This transformation will benefit not just factory workers but also farmers, livestock owners, shopkeepers, and laborers, ensuring inclusive economic progress,” the Prime Minister added.

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Secretary for Health attends various events at Hospital Authority Convention highlighting Hong Kong’s role as “super connector” (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Secretary for Health attends various events at Hospital Authority Convention highlighting Hong Kong’s role as “super connector”  
         Professor Lo said, “Hong Kong enjoys the distinctive advantages of having strong support from the motherland and close connection with the world under ‘one country, two systems’. The HA Convention fully capitalises on Hong Kong’s international and professional advantages in the healthcare field in providing a broad platform for participants from the Mainland and overseas to exchange and share experiences in hospital management and healthcare services, and facilitate communication and networking between industry players from different parts of the world, demonstrating Hong Kong’s important role as a ‘super connector’.”
     
         At the opening ceremony, Professor Lo also witnessed the successful national accreditation of the Chest Pain Centre of Queen Mary Hospital, making it the first chest pain centre in Hong Kong established in accordance with the national accreditation standards while demonstrating national healthcare service standards to the international community. He said, “The establishment of a chest pain centre can improve the efficiency of diagnosis of acute chest pain and speed up the time for patients to receive cardiac surgery, thereby improving patient care, including lowering the death rate, shortening the length of hospitalisation and reducing the rate of hospital readmission. The adoption of the national accreditation standards by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region will also facilitate integration into the overall national development by fully utilising Hong Kong’s advantage of having strong support from the motherland and close connection with the world, with a view to demonstrating the excellence of the national healthcare standards to the international community, and helping promote the development of the national accreditation standards of chest pain centre into an internationally recognised standard.”
     
         Over the course of the Convention, Professor Lo met with multiple delegations from the Mainland and overseas and attended various events, taking the opportunity to promote medical co-operation and exchanges between Hong Kong and other regions.
     
         Professor Lo subsequently met with the Director-General of the Health Commission of Guangdong Province, Mr Liu Liqun, and his delegation to explore the exchange of healthcare talent between the two places, and to exchange views on healthcare collaboration projects, such as the Elderly Health Care Voucher Greater Bay Area Pilot Scheme and the cross-boundary use of electronic health records.
     
         After the meeting, both sides attended the welcoming ceremony for the Mainland Healthcare Talents Visiting Programmes. Professor Lo is pleased to note that since the launch of the visiting programmes in 2022, 80 outstanding doctors and two batches of a total of about 170 nurses from the Mainland have come to the HA on exchange, while more than 25 specialists in organ transplantation, cardiology, orthopaedics, neurology, rare diseases and pathology have also been arranged by the HA to conduct exchanges at public hospitals in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangdong. He said, “The Mainland Healthcare Talents Visiting Programmes have effectively facilitated bilateral on-site clinical training and exchanges between healthcare professionals of the two places and broadened their horizons through mutual learning, thereby complementing each other’s strengths in terms of healthcare personnel and clinical services, and enhancing the quality of healthcare services of both places.”
     
         Afterwards, Professor Lo and the Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau, Mrs Christile Drulhe, jointly witnessed the signing of the Declaration of Intent between the HA and the National Conference of University Hospital General Managers (CNDG) of France, which formally establishes a strategic collaborative partnership between the two organisations in deepening mutual exchanges, promoting the joint development of hospital services and exchange of medical expertise. As a vital component of the French public healthcare system, the CNDG is covering 40 per cent of the public healthcare services in France. Its delegation shared the cutting-edge experience in green hospitals and hospital innovation at the HA Convention.
     
         Professor Lo will continue to meet with multiple delegations coming to Hong Kong to attend the HA Convention tomorrow.
    Issued at HKT 19:48

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Volaris Group Acquires PC Soft

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, May 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Volaris Group today announced the acquisition of PC Soft, a leading provider of software development tools used to create computer programs, web applications and mobile apps. The acquisition further expands Volaris Group’s presence in the developer platforms market.

    Headquartered in Montpellier, France, PC Soft has been providing tools to support application development on all major operating systems and mobile platforms since its founding in 1984. PC Soft’s cross-platform application development software suite improves software developer productivity and allows users to deploy the same source code across multiple platforms.

    “We are excited to welcome PC Soft to Volaris Group and to our expanding portfolio of software development firms,” said John Isak, Portfolio Manager for Developer Platforms at Volaris Group. “PC Soft offers an alternative to traditional software development, allowing customers to develop cross-platform apps orders of magnitude more quickly.”

    About Volaris Group
    Volaris acquires, strengthens, and grows vertical market technology companies. As an Operating Group of Constellation Software Inc., Volaris is all about strengthening businesses within the markets they compete and enabling them to grow – whether that growth comes through organic measures such as new initiatives and product development, day-to-day business, or through complementary acquisitions. Learn more at www.volarisgroup.com.

    For more information:
    Ryan Hill
    Vice President, Communications at Volaris Group
    +1 416-831-0305 
    ryans.hill@volarisgroup.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by Prime Minister Carney welcoming Their Majesties The King and Queen to Canada

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, issued the following statement to welcome Their Majesties The King and Queen to Canada:

    “Today, we are honoured to welcome Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla to Canada.

    “The Royal Visit is a reminder of the bond between Canada and the Crown – one forged over generations, shaped by shared histories, and grounded in common values. A bond that, over time, has evolved, just as Canada has, to reflect the strength, diversity, and confidence of our people.

    “Tomorrow, His Majesty King Charles III will deliver the Speech from the Throne in the Senate Chamber, nearly 70 years after Canada’s Sovereign first opened Parliament. This historic honour matches the weight of our times. It speaks to our enduring tradition and friendship, to the vitality of our constitutional monarchy and our distinct identity, and to the historic ties that crises only fortify.

    “Canada’s strength lies in building a strong future while embracing its English, French, and Indigenous roots – the union of peoples that forms our bedrock. Canada in the 21st century is a bold, ambitious, and innovative country that is bilingual, committed to reconciliation, and truly multicultural.

    “To that end, the Speech from the Throne will outline the government’s ambitious plan to act with urgency and determination, and to deliver the change Canadians want and deserve: to define a new economic and security relationship with the United States, to build the strongest economy in the G7, to bring down the cost of living, and to keep communities safe.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Health chief attends HA convention

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Health Prof Lo Chung-mau today attended the opening ceremony of the Hospital Authority (HA) Convention 2025 and met multiple high-level delegations from the Mainland and overseas for in-depth exchanges on healthcare co-operation and development.

    At the opening ceremony, Prof Lo witnessed the successful national accreditation of the Queen Mary Hospital Chest Pain Centre, making it the first chest pain centre in Hong Kong established in accordance with the national accreditation standards.

    He said the establishment of a chest pain centre can improve the efficiency of acute chest pain diagnosis and speed up the time for patients to receive cardiac surgery, thereby lowering the death rate, shortening the hospitalisation period and reducing the hospital readmission rate.

    The health chief also noted that the adoption of the national accreditation standards by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region will also facilitate integration into the overall national development by fully utilising Hong Kong’s advantage of having the motherland’s  strong support and close connection with the world, with a view to demonstrating the excellence of the national healthcare standards to the international community, and helping promote the development of the national accreditation standards of chest pain centres into an internationally recognised standard.

    Over the course of the convention, Prof Lo met multiple delegations from the Mainland and overseas and attended various events, taking the opportunity to promote medical co-operation and exchanges.

    Among others, Prof Lo met Guangdong Health Commission Director-General Liu Liqun and his delegation to explore the exchange of healthcare talent between the two places, and to discuss healthcare collaboration projects, such as the Elderly Health Care Voucher Greater Bay Area Pilot Scheme and the cross-boundary use of electronic health records.

    After the meeting, both sides attended the welcoming ceremony for the Mainland Healthcare Talents Visiting Programmes.

    Prof Lo was pleased to note that since the 2022 launch of the visiting programmes, 80 outstanding doctors and two batches of about 170 nurses in total from the Mainland have come to the HA on exchange, while more than 25 specialists have also been arranged by the authority to conduct exchanges at public hospitals in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangdong.

    Afterwards, Prof Lo and the Consul General of France in Hong Kong & Macau Christile Drulhe jointly witnessed the signing of the Declaration of Intent between the HA and the National Conference of University Hospital General Managers of France.

    The signing of the declaration formally establishes a strategic collaborative partnership between the two organisations in deepening mutual exchanges, promoting the joint development of hospital services and exchange of medical expertise.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Chance AI releases new model with visual reasoning, multi-language support, and voice

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, NY, May 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Chance AI, the multi-agent visual AI for explorers, artists, and creatives, today announces its most substantial model upgrade to date. Available starting today on iOS and coming soon to Android, Chance AI’s latest release introduces real-time visual reasoning, support for 17 languages, and voice playback—making Chance’s unique visual AI proposition more intuitive, helpful, and accessible.

    Chance AI now describes its reasoning in real time

    Simply take a photo, and Chance AI will instantly provide a wealth of history, context, and related information. Uncover the story behind historic landmarks or art pieces, identify unique plants or objects, or learn more about books, games, movies, and more. Chance AI is currently a free download with no ads or shopping links.

    New Real-Time Visual Reasoning

    The latest update brings real-time visual reasoning to Chance AI, allowing the model not just to identify what it sees—but to explain how it discovers and interprets new information through step-by-step visual logic, like a thoughtful human observer. Whether it’s analyzing art, decoding design, or understanding the natural world, Chance now provides rich, conversational insight into visual intelligence.

    “This is a huge leap forward for Chance AI,” said founder Xi Zeng, co-founder and former Product Director at OnePlus. “Unlike other models, Chance AI is built specifically for deep visual reasoning and explains what it sees in a powerful new way—connecting your curiosity with real, human-centered insights. We believe that knowledge should meet you at the speed of sight, not hide behind search boxes or opaque algorithms. It’s about making exploration transparent, inclusive, and fun.”

    With this release, Chance AI becomes the first true visual reasoning model, offering an unprecedented level of transparency and outperforming competitors in accuracy and contextual depth. 

    Building a Global Community

    With its latest update, Chance AI now supports 17 languages, opening the door for even more users to explore and connect with the world around them. In addition to English, newly added languages include:

    • Spanish / Español
    • French / Français
    • German / Deutsch
    • Italian / Italiano
    • Portuguese / Português
    • Simplified Chinese / 简体中文
    • Traditional Chinese / 繁體中文
    • Japanese / 日本語
    • Dutch / Nederlands
    • Polish / Polski
    • Swedish / Svenska
    • Danish / Dansk
    • Norwegian Bokmål / Norsk Bokmål
    • Finnish / Suomi
    • Czech / Čeština
    • Greek / Ελληνικά

    Press Play on Exploration

    The update also introduces audio output, so users can choose to read or listen to Chance AI’s responses. 

    “It’s so exciting to see people around the world discovering Chance AI and using it to explore their surroundings in entirely new ways,” said Bradon Harwood, co-founder of Chance AI and former senior marketing leader at OnePlus. “This new model is really about breaking down barriers—so even more people can experience the joy of exploration in their own native language, by text or voice.”

    Voice features are now available in English, Chinese, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, and Spanish. More languages are planned for future releases.

    Availability

    Chance AI is available now for free download on the Apple App Store. An Android version is currently in closed beta and will be available soon on Google Play. Users can visit Chance AI’s website to join the company’s beta program and try the Android version today.

    Chance AI is now available in 17 global languages

    About Chance AI

    Founded by former OnePlus team members with a passion for design, technology, and exploration, Chance AI is the most advanced visual AI ever developed—driven by a mission to enrich lives through discovery. With just a quick snap, it unlocks a world of conversational context and hidden narratives, transforming the way people engage with their surroundings. 

    Press inquiries

    Chance AI
    https://chance.vision
    Bradon Harwood
    bradon@chance.vision

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Talkdesk selected by Cegeka to modernize customer experience

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALO ALTO, Calif. and HASSELT, Belgium, May 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Talkdesk®, Inc., a global provider of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered customer experience (CX) technology that serves enterprises of all sizes, today announced that Cegeka, a leading global IT solutions provider, has selected Talkdesk to modernize its customer experience. By adopting the Talkdesk cloud-native and AI-driven platform, Cegeka aims to enhance customer engagement and deliver consistent, high-quality support across multiple channels. Talkdesk was selected for its omnichannel capabilities, user-friendly interface for its service desk agents, and advanced AI tools designed to streamline workflows and address diverse customer needs.

    As part of the partnership, Talkdesk will provide Cegeka with a range of solutions from the Talkdesk CX Cloud™ suite. These capabilities include text-to-speech and speech-to-text, as well as live chat and voice bots, adding new channels for real-time support. Additionally, Talkdesk CX Analytics extracts valuable insights from customer conversations so Cegeka can continuously improve its customer service.

    Talkdesk’s ongoing track record of innovating and introducing cutting-edge AI solutions to its platforms was a significant reason for Cegeka’s decision. Cegeka recognized how Talkdesk can help the organization seamlessly integrate AI into its customer service, minimizing response times and reducing average handle time (AHT). Among its many capabilities, Talkdesk Ascend AI enables businesses to automatically identify frequently asked questions (FAQs) and create consistent, fast responses to recurring issues. It also detects intent during conversations to improve agent responsiveness and service quality.

    “Partnering with Talkdesk has supported our efforts to modernize customer experience at Cegeka,” said Luc Dedroog, vice president of digital workplace at Cegeka. “The platform offers flexibility and simplicity, which has helped streamline service for both our customers and service desk agents. We expect to see improvements in customer satisfaction from our initial deployments and look forward to exploring the potential of Talkdesk’s AI capabilities moving forward.”

    Ease of deployment and use was another deciding factor in Cegeka’s choice to implement Talkdesk solutions. Talkdesk CX Cloud has a user-friendly interface and provides seamless integrations with the third-party systems Cegeka uses. The Microsoft Teams Connector integrates its communications solutions, and Talkdesk BYOC (Bring Your Own Carrier) facilitates easy integration with Cegeka’s existing telephony provider to maintain its current customer service phone numbers—making Talkdesk solutions seamless to implement and deploy and putting all information easily at agents’ fingertips. Additionally, the Quobis app will enable internet-based calling and efficiently route conversations to the appropriate groups, without the need for manual routing.

    “Talkdesk looks forward to empowering Cegeka to deliver an enhanced customer experience through our innovative and comprehensive solutions,” said Tiago Paiva, chief executive officer and founder at Talkdesk. “Supporting Cegeka on its customer experience transformation journey is an honor.”

    About Talkdesk

    Talkdesk® is on a mission to rid the world of bad customer experience. With our cloud-native, generative AI-powered CX platform, purpose-built industry solutions, and extensible AI offerings, we empower enterprises in the cloud and on-premises to deliver exceptional customer experiences that make them more competitive, grow revenue, reduce costs, and provide operational efficiencies. With specialized workflows and integrations delivered out of the box for our Industry Experience Clouds, Talkdesk accelerates value for our customers faster and more simply than legacy or one-size-fits-all solutions.

    Partnering with enterprises globally, we deliver continuous innovation and breakthrough results. Our commitment to reliability and security, paired with our track record of delivering on promises, sets us apart in the industry. Elevate customer experiences, streamline operations, and increase revenue with Talkdesk. Companies that love their customers use Talkdesk.

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

    About Cegeka

    At Cegeka, we believe in shaping digital together. We don’t just deliver technology — we work shoulder to shoulder with our clients to design, build, and run resilient digital solutions that drive impact where and when it matters most.

    Our broad portfolio spans application services, business solutions, quality engineering, data & AI, digital workplaces, cyber resilience, networking & regulatory services, and hybrid cloud. With a strong focus on craftsmanship, we expertly manage legacy systems while accelerating modernization and innovation.

    Cegeka has a global presence with offices in the Benelux, Germany, Austria, Romania, Moldova, Italy, Sweden, Greece, Denmark, France, the United Kingdom, the United States, Colombia, and India. With over 10,000 employees, the company achieved a consolidated revenue of €1.3 billion in 2024.

    Founded in 1992 by André Knaepen — who currently serves as chairman of the board — Cegeka is a family-owned company headquartered in Hasselt, Belgium, and led by CEO Stijn Bijnens.

    Media Contact:
    Talkdesk Public Relations
    pr@talkdesk.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Deputy President pays courtesy visit to French President Macron

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Deputy President Paul Mashatile paid a courtesy visit to French President Emmanuel Macron at his residence, the Palais de l’Élysée, in Paris, on Thursday. 

    He was accompanied by Ministers, Deputy Ministers, and business leaders from both South Africa and France.
    The meeting followed a successful SA-France Investment Conference where commitments were made to upscale trade relations between the two countries. 

    According to the Deputy President’s Office, South Africa remains committed to a global trade and investment environment that aims for sustainable and impactful global economic growth, despite the geopolitical challenges.

    “The meeting with President Macron focused on strengthening trade and diplomatic cooperation as well as cooperation in multilateral fora. 

    “The importance of economic cooperation between the two countries is about bridging the gap between the south and north, thereby creating a trade equilibrium,” the statement read. 

    During the meeting, the Deputy President indicated that the presence of over 400 French companies employing over 65 000 South Africans is a testimony to the value proposition that South Africa offers. 

    “However, the Deputy President noted that in the past two years, there has been a decline in bilateral trade, underpinned by a decline in both imports and exports. 

    “Therefore, it was prudent that South Africa intensifies efforts to increase bilateral trade through business-to-business engagements.”

    The inaugural SA-France Investment Conference is viewed as a step in the right direction to expand on existing cooperation and identify new areas of cooperation with a specific focus on trade and investment. 

    The conference will continue a biennial basis to further take stock of established partnerships and explore other areas of cooperation. 

    “In response, President Macron welcomed the Deputy President and his delegation and appreciated the decision of South Africa to strengthen trade and bilateral relations.”

    He reiterated the commitment for France and South Africa to continue to work together in various multilateral platforms for diplomacy and peace. 

    President Macron also confirmed that he will be coming to South Africa to attend the Group of 20 (G20) Leaders’ Summit in November this year.

    The two leaders agreed that this engagement will further cement the bonds between the business sectors in South Africa and France and further unlock more potential investments. 

    Deputy President Mashatile is currently in Paris for a working visit focused on strengthening South Africa’s longstanding bilateral relations with France. 

    READ | Deputy President in France for a working visit

    This visit aims to expand existing cooperation projects and identify new areas for collaboration, particularly in trade and investment. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Security: IAEA Concludes Long Term Operation Safety Review of Slovenia’s Krško Nuclear Power Plant

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) team of experts yesterday completed a review of long term operational safety of the Krško Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) in Slovenia.

    The Safety Aspects of Long Term Operation (SALTO) review mission was requested by the plant’s operator, Nuklearna Elektrarna Krško (NEK). Krško NPP started commercial operation in 1983. It is the only reactor in Slovenia and is co-owned with neighbouring Croatia. Located approximately 70 kilometers east of Slovenia’s capital Ljubljana, and 40 kilometres north-west of Croatia’s capital Zagreb, Krško NPP is equipped with one pressurized-water reactor and has a net electrical output of 700 Megawatt electric (MW(e)). In 2023, the operating license of the NPP was extended from initially 40 years to 60 years until 2043.

    During the ten-day mission that ended on 22 May, the team reviewed the plant’s preparedness, organization and programmes for safe long term operation, which built upon an initial IAEA pre-SALTO mission held at the plant in 2021. The mission was conducted by a twelve-person team consisting of experts from Canada, the Czech Republic, France, Hungary, three IAEA staff members and four observers from France, Hungary, Sweden, and the Nuclear Energy Agency. During the review, the SALTO team held in-depth discussions with staff from the Krško NPP and conducted several site walkdowns.    

    The team noted the progress in measures taken by the operator to ensure safe LTO. “The professionalism, openness and receptiveness for improvements of plant staff to meet and move beyond the IAEA safety standards is commendable,” said team leader and IAEA Nuclear Safety Officer Martin Marchena who noted that most ageing management and LTO activities were already in alignment with IAEA safety standards. “We encourage the plant to address the review findings and proceed with the implementation of all remaining activities for safe LTO”, he added.

    The team identified good performances that will be shared with the nuclear industry globally, including:

    • Operating a 360-degree “Virtual Walkdown” application that allows staff to visually evaluate equipment through photos and associated design and maintenance data in support of ageing management activities.
    • The comprehensive establishment, documentation and revalidation of the equipment qualification programme for LTO, which ensures that components can perform their intended safety functions under all conditions.
    • Ageing management activities for the reactor pressure vessel are well-established and form a well-structured and comprehensive programme.

    The team also provided suggestions to further improve safe LTO, for example:

    • The plant should consider further developing a systematic approach for the oversight of the LTO programme.
    • The plant should consider adequately documenting the methodology and results used for scope setting (the identification of relevant systems, structures and components) for ageing management.
    • The plant should consider completing and fully documenting ageing management of electrical and instrumentation and control systems, structures and components (I&C SSCs).

    The plant management expressed a determination to maintain the level of preparedness for safe LTO and further cooperate with the IAEA in this field.

    “We appreciate the IAEA’s support to our plant in ageing management and preparation for safe LTO,” said Gorazd Pfeifer, President of the Krško management Board.  “It is very important for us to get an external view on our business. The competencies and experience of the IAEA team enable us to effectively identify areas for improvement.  The results of this mission will help us to improve our activities for safe LTO and to further align them with IAEA safety standards.”

    The team provided a draft report to the plant management and to the Slovenian Nuclear Safety Administration (SNSA), the country’s nuclear regulatory authority, at the end of the mission. The plant management and SNSA will have an opportunity to make factual comments on the draft. A final report will be submitted to the plant management, SNSA and the Slovenian Government within three months.

    Background

    General information about SALTO missions can be found on the IAEA Website. A SALTO peer review is a comprehensive safety review addressing strategy and key elements for the safe long term operation of nuclear power plants. They complement OSART missions, which are designed as a review of programmes and activities essential to operational safety. Neither SALTO nor OSART reviews are regulatory inspections, nor are they design reviews or substitutes for an exhaustive assessment of a plant’s overall safety status.

    LTO of nuclear power plants is defined as operation beyond an established time frame determined by the license term, the original plant design, relevant standards, or national regulations. As stated in IAEA safety standards, to maintain a plant’s fitness for service, consideration should be given to life limiting processes and features of systems, structures, and components (SSC), as well as to reasonably practicable safety upgrades to enhance the safety of the plant to a level approaching that of modern plants.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Diversity : European Parliaments are falling behind

    Source: Universities – Science Po in English

    People of foreign origin continue to be underrepresented in national parliaments across Europe, according to a comparative study conducted in Germany, Spain, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and Switzerland. Laura Morales, a researcher at the Centre for European Studies and Comparative Politics (Sciences Po / CNRS), contributed to this study. In particular, individuals with immigrant backgrounds remain underrepresented relative to their share of the general population. This is also the case in France, according to earlier research by Laura Morales. Discover the main findings in this article. 

    Members of parliament with immigrant backgrounds remain underrepresented in the national parliaments of major European countries, according to the recent REPCHANCE Europe study, funded by the Robert Bosch Stiftung. Covering five European democracies—Germany, Spain, the Netherlands, the UK, and Switzerland—between 2012 and 2021, the study defines individuals of immigrant origin as those born abroad with foreign nationality, or with at least one parent meeting that condition. The study shows that, despite progress over the past decade, the proportion of individuals of immigrant origin among national parliamentarians remains lower than their share in the population of each country. This observation also applies to France, which Laura Morales examined in a separate project funded by Sciences Po, InclusiveParl. 

    Disparities in the Representation of Social Diversity Over Time and Space

    As of 2021, the Netherlands leads with the highest proportion of MPs of immigrant origin (19%), though this is still below the percentage of immigrants in the general population (24.6% according to StatLine). The same is true for all other countries studied, including Switzerland (14% in the National Council, compared to 39.5% in the population according to the BFS) and Germany (11% in the Bundestag, compared to 27.2% according to Destatis). 

    For Spain, France, and the UK, only the proportion of those born abroad or with foreign nationality is known. These figures—drawn from OECD statistics for comparability—thus underestimate the population of foreign descent, yet they still exceed or at best equal the share of immigrant-origin MPs: Spain’s Congress of Deputies includes 2% immigrant-origin MPs (versus 15.4% foreign-born residents), France’s National Assembly 9.8% (versus 13.3%), and the UK’s House of Commons 15% (versus 14%). The discrepancies would be even larger if descendants of foreign-born individuals with foreign nationality were considered in the general population.

    Parliamentary representation of individuals with immigrant backgrounds has improved over time, but progress has varied greatly by country (see chart below).

    Share of MPs of Immigrant Origin in Five European National Parliaments (2012–2021). 
    Depending on the country, this period includes a variable number of legislative sessions: 5 in Spain, 4 in Germany and the UK, 3 in Switzerland, and 2 in the Netherlands. 
    Source : REPCHANCE Europe. Drivers and Obstacles to Minority Representation.

    In comparison with these five countries, the proportion of foreign-origin MPs in France’s National Assembly was 7.5% during the 14th legislature (2012–2017) and 9.8% during the 15th (2017–2022). These figures place parliamentary diversity in France at a level similar to Germany during the same period. 

    “These contrasting developments in diversity within European parliaments are partly due to differing immigration timelines and levels in each country—a longer migration history in the UK, more intense immigration in Switzerland—but also to the degree of attention political parties pay to diversity in their ranks and candidate selections,” explains Laura Morales, university professor at the Centre for European Studies and Comparative Politics and lead researcher of the study for Spain and the UK. “The role of political parties is evident in the non-linear increase in diversity in the Dutch and Swiss parliaments and the lack of real progress in Spain, despite growing social diversity in all of these countries.”

    Persistent Obstacles

    Another part of the REPCHANCE Europe study is based on interviews with elected officials of immigrant origin at national, regional, or local levels. These interviews help to understand how such individuals become politically engaged and what barriers they face. For example, people of immigrant origin more often run under left-wing parties, particularly in Germany and Switzerland, and to a lesser extent in the UK and the Netherlands. Decisions to run for office are often influenced by growing up in politically active families, but mobilization by party officials also plays a crucial role. Whether they are actually elected depends on factors such as the constituency assigned or list placement in proportional voting systems. 

    Once in office, foreign-origin MPs often face discrimination (with women experiencing both sexism and racism), hate speech, or tokenism—being used to give the appearance of diversity—according to the study. Furthermore, these MPs are often expected (or limited) to focus on migration and integration issues, even without prior expertise in these areas.

    Towards Greater Political Inclusion

    In their report, the researchers propose concrete measures to achieve more balanced representation of people of immigrant origin. These recommendations include extending voting rights for certain elections (e.g., local or regional), educational initiatives, but most importantly, measures targeted at political parties: more active recruitment of immigrant-origin individuals, stronger anti-discrimination policies, and a focus on training, which would benefit all newcomers to politics. 

    Ferdinand Mirbach, an expert at the Robert Bosch Stiftung, emphasizes that “increasing the political representation of people of immigrant origin is essential for the proper functioning of democracy. Political parties, civil society, and institutions must actively create opportunities and remove obstacles to ensure a diversity of voices are heard in decision-making.”
     

    > To learn more, access the comparative research report REPCHANCE Europe. 

    Translation from French to English by Hannah Ashburn

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New York Man Pleads Guilty to Making Hate Crime Threat against Michigan Attorney General

    Source: US FBI

    DETROIT – A New York man pleaded guilty today to a federal crime for threatening Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, announced United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr. and Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Field Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

    According to court documents, on October 21, 2023, AG Nessel posted to her X account a photograph of herself and her friend who had been murdered that day. Along with the photograph, AG Nessel described her friend’s faith and contributions to the community and expressed grief and shock about the murder. The next day, Kevin Delgado, 40, of Bayside, New York, posted a threatening reply to AG Nessel’s post. Delgado then pleaded guilty to one count of transmitting threats in interstate commerce. Delgado admitted that he threatened her because of her religion and her perceived sexual orientation.

    “The federal government is dedicated to protecting all Americans against threats of violence. Everyone person has equal dignity, and our office will tirelessly work to protect them. And public officials must be free to exercise their office without fear,” U.S. Attorney Gorgon said.

    “Threatening public officials is both illegal and unacceptable. The hateful comments made by Mr. Delgado online were especially outrageous,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, the Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify and hold accountable those who make these dangerous and harmful threats against officials dedicated to serving and protecting our communities.”

    Delgado will be sentenced by United States District Court Judge Nancy G. Edmunds on September 22, 2025. He faces a maximum sentence of up to 5 years’ imprisonment.

    This case was investigated by the FBI. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Frances Lee Carlson.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: KBC Ancora distributes an interim dividend of EUR 3.51 per share on 5 June 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Regulated information, inside information, Leuven, 23 May 2025 (17.40 CEST)

    KBC Ancora distributes an interim dividend of EUR 3.51 per share on 5 June 2025

    The Board of Directors of Almancora Société de gestion, statutory director of KBC Ancora, decided at its meeting on 23 May 2025, to make an interim dividend payable on 5 June 2025, of EUR 3.51 gross per KBC Ancora share. The net coupon amount, after deduction of 30% withholding tax, is EUR 2.457 per share.
    No final dividend will be paid.
    The financial services will be provided by KBC Bank, KBC Brussels and CBC Banque.

    Relevant dividend dates:

    • Ex-date: 3 June 2025
    • Record date: 4 June 2025
    • Payment date: 5 June 2025

    ———————————

    KBC Ancora is a listed company which holds 18.6% of the shares in KBC Group and which together with Cera, MRBB and the Other Permanent Shareholders is responsible for the shareholder stability and further development of the KBC group. As core shareholders of KBC Group, these parties have signed a shareholder agreement to this effect.

    Financial calendar:
    29 August 2025 (17.40 CEST)        Annual press release for the financial year 2024/2025
    30 September 2025 (17.40 CEST)        Annual report financial year 2024/2025 available
    31 October 2025                        General Meeting of Shareholders

    This press release is available in Dutch, French and English on the website www.kbcancora.be.

    KBC Ancora Investor Relations & Presse contact: Jan Bergmans
    tel.: +32 (0)16 27 96 72
    e-mail: jan.bergmans@kbcancora.be or mailbox@kbcancora.be 

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Combined General Meeting of June 13, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Combined General Meeting of June 13, 2025

    Access to information

    Paris, France – May 23, 2025 – Atos SE shareholders are invited to attend the Combined General Meeting of the Company to be held on Friday, June 13, 2025 at 10 a.m. (Paris time) at the Company’s registered office (River Ouest, in the auditorium, 80 quai Voltaire, 95870 Bezons).

    Please note that the General Meeting will also be broadcasted live on video on the Company’s website (https://atos.net/en/investors/annual-general-meeting), and that the video recording will then be available for replay in the same section.

    The notice of meeting (avis de réunion), including the agenda, the draft resolutions and the main conditions of participation, was published in the BALO (Bulletin des Annonces Légales Obligatoires) no. 54 of May 5, 2025. The convening meeting (avis de convocation) is published today in the BALO and in a legal gazette. They are also available on the Company’s website (https://atos.net/en/investors/annual-general-meeting).

    The documents referred to in Article R. 22-10-23 of the French Commercial Code can be consulted and downloaded on the Company’s website, under the “Annual General Meeting” heading in the “Investors” section (https://atos.net/en/investors/annual-general-meeting).

    The documents referred to in Article R. 225-83 of the French Commercial Code are available to shareholders as from the date of the convening notice for the meeting in accordance with applicable regulations:

    • shareholders holding registered shares (actions au nominatif) may, up to and including the fifth day prior to the Meeting, request that the Company sends these documents to them. For shareholders holding bearer shares, the exercise of this right is subject to the provision of a certificate of registration in the accounts of the bearer shares maintained by the authorized intermediary;
    • shareholders may consult these documents at the Company’s registered office during the fifteen-day period preceding the Meeting.

    ***

    About Atos Group

    Atos Group is a global leader in digital transformation with c. 72,000 employees and annual revenue of c. € 10 billion, operating in 68 countries under two brands — Atos for services and Eviden for products. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, Atos Group is committed to a secure and decarbonized future and provides tailored AI-powered, end-to-end solutions for all industries. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea) and listed on Euronext Paris.

    The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.

    Contacts

    Investor relations: investors@atos.net

    Individual shareholders: +33 8 05 65 00 75

    Media relations: globalprteam@atos.net

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Volta Finance Limited – Net Asset Value(s) as at 30 April 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Volta Finance Limited (VTA / VTAS)
    April 2025 monthly report

    NOT FOR RELEASE, DISTRIBUTION, OR PUBLICATION, IN WHOLE OR PART, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES

    Guernsey, May 23rd, 2025

    AXA IM has published the Volta Finance Limited (the “Company” or “Volta Finance” or “Volta”) monthly report for April 2025. The full report is attached to this release and will be available on Volta’s website shortly (www.voltafinance.com).

    Performance and Portfolio Activity

    Dear Investors,

    Volta Finance’s net performance for the month of April was negative -2.4%, taking the Aug 2024-to-date performance to +7.1%. Both our investments in CLO Debt and CLO Equity have experienced volatility post-liberation day, reflected in the valuation of the underlying assets of the fund.

    April was dominated by highly volatile markets driven by a confluence of macroeconomic and geopolitical events. On April 2, 2025, President Trump announced aggressive tariff policies aimed at addressing trade imbalances and bolstering U.S. economic sovereignty. Key measures included a 10% baseline tariff on all countries, with higher reciprocal tariffs on countries with significant trade deficits. These tariffs prompted swift responses from trading partners, notably escalating tensions with China, leading the U.S. to further increase tariffs on Chinese products to 145%.

    These announcements triggered immediate market reactions, causing U.S. and European stock indices to experience sharp declines amid fears of disrupted supply chains and higher costs. Markets partially recovered by month’s end as the Trump administration declared a 90-day tariffs pause on all countries that did not retaliate. From a macroeconomic perspective, sentiment was mixed. The April U.S. jobs report indicated resilience, with 177,000 jobs added—surpassing expectations—and the unemployment rate holding steady at 4.2%. However, GDP data painted a less optimistic picture, with a -0.3% annualized contraction in Q1 2025, sharply down from the previous quarter’s 2.4% growth. Increased imports and reduced government spending drove this decline, prompting the IMF to revise recession risks upward from 25% to 40%, while the Federal Reserve lowered its 2025 GDP growth forecast to 1.7%. In Europe, the ECB cut interest rates by 25 basis points to 2.25% amid weakening growth prospects and tariff-related uncertainties, also revising the bloc’s 2025 growth forecast down to 0.9% from 1.1%.

    Market-wise, the European High Yield index (Xover) closed around 40bps wider while Euro Loans lost 1pt at 97.80px (Morningstar European Leveraged Loan Index). US Loans were down as well (-85cts) at 96.30px. Primary CLO markets remained busy as many transactions had secured orders, while levels moved wider across the capital structure, notably with BBs north of +600bps and single-Bs above +900bps. In terms of performance, CLO BB tranches total returns reached -1.5%. This is to be put in perspective with US High Yield returning -1.07% in the same period and Euro High Yield -1%.

    In terms of defaults, Liability Management Exercises (aka ‘LME’) are now the norm in the US market. Default rate in the US is standing at c.4.3% (0.8% excluding LME) according to Morningstar LL Index while the default rate in Europe is kept at 0.3% at the end of March in terms of principal amount. This is resulting into some par erosion and some pressure on CCC headroom for amortizing CLO.

    In front of these uncertainties, we decided to increase our cash up to c.16% of NAV at the end of the month through active management in addition to strong CLO Equity distributions: we received €7.5m coming from called CLO Equities, sold European CLO single B and redeemed US CLO debt. At the opposite, we invested into our US and European CLO warehouses €1.9m to buy loans at a discount and €2.3m into CLO debt tranches. In addition, Volta Finance’s cashflow generation remained stable at €28.5m equivalent of interests and coupons over the last six months, representing close to 22% of April’s NAV on an annualized basis.

    Over the month, Volta’s CLO Equity tranches returned -3.6%** while CLO Debt tranches returned -0.9% performance**. This performance is consistent – although better – with the total returns of the product as mentioned above, especially when considering that Volta Finance is exposed to both BB and single-B tranches.

    Through the month, the dollar volatility had again a meaningful impact on the overall funds’ performance (-0.64%). In the second half of the month, considering the potential change into the long-term investor view on the dollar, we decided to lower our exposure to USD to avoid further weakening and decreased our exposure to c.12%.

    As of end of April 2025, Volta’s NAV was €262.9m, i.e. €7.19 per share.

    *It should be noted that approximately 4.24% of Volta’s GAV comprises investments for which the relevant NAVs as at the month-end date are normally available only after Volta’s NAV has already been published. Volta’s policy is to publish its NAV on as timely a basis as possible to provide shareholders with Volta’s appropriately up-to-date NAV information. Consequently, such investments are valued using the most recently available NAV for each fund or quoted price for such subordinated notes. The most recently available fund NAV or quoted price was 4.24% as at 31 March 2025.

    ** “performances” of asset classes are calculated as the Dietz-performance of the assets in each bucket, taking into account the Mark-to-Market of the assets at period ends, payments received from the assets over the period, and ignoring changes in cross-currency rates. Nevertheless, some residual currency effects could impact the aggregate value of the portfolio when aggregating each bucket.

    CONTACTS

    For the Investment Manager
    AXA Investment Managers Paris
    François Touati
    francois.touati@axa-im.com
    +33 (0) 1 44 45 80 22

    Olivier Pons
    Olivier.pons@axa-im.com
    +33 (0) 1 44 45 87 30

    Company Secretary and Administrator
    BNP Paribas S.A, Guernsey Branch
    guernsey.bp2s.volta.cosec@bnpparibas.com 
    +44 (0) 1481 750 853

    Corporate Broker
    Cavendish Securities plc
    Andrew Worne
    Daniel Balabanoff
    +44 (0) 20 7397 8900

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    ABOUT VOLTA FINANCE LIMITED

    Volta Finance Limited is incorporated in Guernsey under The Companies (Guernsey) Law, 2008 (as amended) and listed on Euronext Amsterdam and the London Stock Exchange’s Main Market for listed securities. Volta’s home member state for the purposes of the EU Transparency Directive is the Netherlands. As such, Volta is subject to regulation and supervision by the AFM, being the regulator for financial markets in the Netherlands.

    Volta’s Investment objectives are to preserve its capital across the credit cycle and to provide a stable stream of income to its Shareholders through dividends that it expects to distribute on a quarterly basis. The Company currently seeks to achieve its investment objectives by pursuing exposure predominantly to CLO’s and similar asset classes. A more diversified investment strategy across structured finance assets may be pursued opportunistically. The Company has appointed AXA Investment Managers Paris an investment management company with a division specialised in structured credit, for the investment management of all its assets.

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    ABOUT AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS
    AXA Investment Managers (AXA IM) is a multi-expert asset management company within the AXA Group, a global leader in financial protection and wealth management. AXA IM is one of the largest European-based asset managers with 2,800 professionals and €859 billion in assets under management as of the end of June 2024.  

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    This press release is published by AXA Investment Managers Paris (“AXA IM”), in its capacity as alternative investment fund manager (within the meaning of Directive 2011/61/EU, the “AIFM Directive”) of Volta Finance Limited (the “Volta Finance”) whose portfolio is managed by AXA IM.

    This press release is for information only and does not constitute an invitation or inducement to acquire shares in Volta Finance. Its circulation may be prohibited in certain jurisdictions and no recipient may circulate copies of this document in breach of such limitations or restrictions. This document is not an offer for sale of the securities referred to herein in the United States or to persons who are “U.S. persons” for purposes of Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), or otherwise in circumstances where such offer would be restricted by applicable law. Such securities may not be sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration from the Securities Act. Volta Finance does not intend to register any portion of the offer of such securities in the United States or to conduct a public offering of such securities in the United States.

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    This communication is only being distributed to and is only directed at (i) persons who are outside the United Kingdom or (ii) investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the “Order”) or (iii) high net worth companies, and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as “relevant persons”). The securities referred to herein are only available to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such securities will be engaged in only with, relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on this document or any of its contents. Past performance cannot be relied on as a guide to future performance.

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    This press release contains statements that are, or may deemed to be, “forward-looking statements”. These forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the terms “believes”, “anticipated”, “expects”, “intends”, “is/are expected”, “may”, “will” or “should”. They include the statements regarding the level of the dividend, the current market context and its impact on the long-term return of Volta Finance’s investments. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and readers are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Volta Finance’s actual results, portfolio composition and performance may differ materially from the impression created by the forward-looking statements. AXA IM does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking statements.

    Any target information is based on certain assumptions as to future events which may not prove to be realised. Due to the uncertainty surrounding these future events, the targets are not intended to be and should not be regarded as profits or earnings or any other type of forecasts. There can be no assurance that any of these targets will be achieved. In addition, no assurance can be given that the investment objective will be achieved.

    The figures provided that relate to past months or years and past performance cannot be relied on as a guide to future performance or construed as a reliable indicator as to future performance. Throughout this review, the citation of specific trades or strategies is intended to illustrate some of the investment methodologies and philosophies of Volta Finance, as implemented by AXA IM. The historical success or AXA IM’s belief in the future success, of any of these trades or strategies is not indicative of, and has no bearing on, future results.

    The valuation of financial assets can vary significantly from the prices that the AXA IM could obtain if it sought to liquidate the positions on behalf of the Volta Finance due to market conditions and general economic environment. Such valuations do not constitute a fairness or similar opinion and should not be regarded as such.

    Editor: AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS PARIS, a company incorporated under the laws of France, having its registered office located at Tour Majunga, 6, Place de la Pyramide – 92800 Puteaux. AXA IMP is authorized by the Autorité des Marchés Financiers under registration number GP92008 as an alternative investment fund manager within the meaning of the AIFM Directive.

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    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Russia is facing fresh sanctions, but Putin is used to dealing with a struggling economy

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Yerzhan Tokbolat, Lecturer in Finance, Queen’s University Belfast

    The UK and the EU have agreed to hit Russia with a raft of new economic sanctions after hopes of a ceasefire with Ukraine came to nothing. One French minister commented that it is time to “suffocate” the Russian economy.

    Since the country’s fullscale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, that economy has certainly suffered. Sanctions on Russia have already led to a depreciation of the rouble, high inflation, very high interest rates and a stagnating economy.

    But it remains unclear what effect any new measures will have. And Vladimir Putin has a history of riding out economic hardship.

    When he became president of Russia just over 25 years ago, the country’s economy was in dire straits. Attempts by his predecessors Mikhail Gorbachev and Boris Yeltsin to build a more open and capitalist system had not worked well for most Russian citizens.

    Instead, a rapid wave of privatisations, which reformers hoped would build strong institutions, had mostly benefited a small group of oligarchs who exploited a weak and corrupt state to seize key oil, gas and mineral assets.

    Those oligarchs resisted legal reform, moved wealth abroad, failed to invest in the domestic economy, and gradually gained control of major corporations and media, expanding their political influence. By 1995, nearly half of Russians were living in poverty.

    The 1998 crisis worsened the situation, as a global recession and falling commodity prices led to fiscal imbalances and doubts about Russia’s ability to service its debt and uphold the fixed exchange rate. The central bank raised interest rates to 150% to try and stabilise the rouble, but this failed.

    It eventually allowed the rouble to float, and the currency lost about two-thirds of its value. When he came to power in 2000, Putin was then confronted with the challenge of rebuilding the Russian economy.

    Luckily for him, between 2000 and 2008, an oil and gas boom drove GDP growth, increasing incomes, and allowing for early repayment of national debts. Putin – and national pride – received a boost.

    Rising energy revenues helped stabilise the economy and enabled the state to tighten its grip on the energy sector. By 2006, Gazprom accounted for 20% of government tax revenue.

    Putin then shifted his focus to Europe. With German support, the Nord Stream pipeline was completed in 2011, enabling direct gas exports to western Europe while bypassing Ukraine. This increased European dependence on Russian energy.

    But Putin’s oil and gas-driven economic model struggled to sustain growth, and by 2013, his approval ratings had fallen to their lowest point since 2000.

    The annexation of Crimea in 2014, along with a very expensive Winter Olympics in the Black Sea resort city of Sochi, temporarily boosted his popularity.

    Running on empty

    However, these accomplishments did little to address Russia’s core economic problems, particularly its failure to build a diversified economy.

    By 2018, Russia’s economy was again stagnant, with a weak currency and declining living standards, and Putin’s popularity fell in part due to unpopular budget-saving reforms, including raising the retirement age.

    There was widespread doubt about Putin’s model of lasting prosperity, which relied on state-led growth, but was marked by instability, resource dependence and growing geopolitical ambition.

    In this light, Putin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 appeared to be a familiar tactic to boost support. Indeed, his approval jumped to 83% after invading Ukraine, matching levels seen after the 2014 Crimea annexation. His ratings have remained high since, with recent polls still showing approval levels above 80%.

    But the Russian economy will still be a worry. Sustaining a “war economy”, where manufacturing and investment are focused on conflict cannot go on forever, particularly as the manufacturing product is being rapidly depleted as the Russian military uses it the field. And reliance on commodities has amplified the impact of sanctions, hitting key banks and energy firms such as Gazprom and Rosneft.

    Meanwhile, the US has significantly expanded its presence in Europe’s energy market, supplying nearly 50% of the EU’s liquid natural gas imports after tripling exports between 2021 and 2023.

    Major Russian pipeline projects such as Nord Stream 2 and Power of Siberia 2 remain in limbo. And the decline in oil prices in April 2025, the biggest since November 2021, poses further risks.

    If a ceasefire is agreed, a pause in the war could offer Russia the chance to regroup and recover economically. Sanctions are often temporary, and global demand for oil and gas remains strong. Some countries may re-engage in trade.

    But future economic stagnation could once again fuel aggression. Unless Russia undertakes structural reforms and redefines its role in the global economy by reducing reliance on resource exports and engaging more constructively with global markets, the cycle of confrontation may repeat itself, with far-reaching global consequences.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Russia is facing fresh sanctions, but Putin is used to dealing with a struggling economy – https://theconversation.com/russia-is-facing-fresh-sanctions-but-putin-is-used-to-dealing-with-a-struggling-economy-255732

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –