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  • MIL-OSI: Nokia deployments with majority of world’s largest IXPs reflect push for scale, reliability and automation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press release
    Nokia deployments with majority of world’s largest IXPs reflect push for scale, reliability and automation

    • Six of the world’s 10 largest IXPs have deployed Nokia networking infrastructure and cumulatively carry close to 45 Tbps of traffic during peak times
    • Performance at scale, security and AI-enhanced operations of Nokia IP, optical and DDoS solutions support buildouts of massive cloud networks
    • Stunning growth of regional clouds driven by unprecedented latency, security and bandwidth pressures as global digital economy flourishes

    30 Sept 2024
    Espoo, Finland: Nokia today reaffirmed its leadership and commitment to the global Internet Exchange market as it continues to work with more than 20 Internet Exchange Providers (IXPs), including six of the world’s 10 largest based on both peak traffic and number of members. As the local interconnection points for more than 5,000 member organizations, these six IXPs cumulatively transport close to 45 Tbps of traffic during peak times – a figure that’s set to grow as the Equinix Global Interconnection Index (GXI) 2024 predicts a stunning 34% five-year CAGR in interconnection bandwidth.

    The expanding digital economy, proliferation of edge compute, and anticipated move of latency-sensitive AI models to regional clouds for local consumption are contributing to the need for what the GXI calls an Interconnection Oriented Architecture® (IOA). According to the GXI 2024 report, “The economics of data, density, velocity and experience demand localized exchange to move the highest volumes of data with the lowest latency to dense clusters of participants and population centers.”

    Built to handle these current and future pressures, the characteristics of the Nokia IP, optical and security solutions align to those identified in the IOA and are central to why the Nokia portfolio has increasingly become the dominant choice of leading IXPs.

    The Nokia FP5 800GE technology, deployed by leading European IXPs including Germany’s DE-CIX and the Netherlands’ NL-ix , provides the fastest possible performance in the industry and is realizing dramatic sustainability gains. Since deploying this technology, NL-ix has shown a reduction in power consumption from 0.8 watts to 0.1 watts per gigabit in parts of its network.

    Thomas King, CTO at DE-CIX, said: “Nokia’s 800GE technology gives us the considerable runway needed to address future traffic growth in a cost- and energy-efficient way. 800GE optics consume the least amount of space and power per bit, and at the same time it provides the most headroom for traffic peaks of the future.”

    Nokia has also played a leadership role in the standardization of Ethernet Virtual Private Networks (EVPNs). With industry-leading functionality and scalability, the SROS implementation of EVPN provides IXPs an ideal toolset to manage the increase in traffic. When Telehouse America selected Nokia to upgrade its NYIIX peering exchange infrastructure in the US, it deployed the Nokia EVPN solution to resolve multiple technical challenges.

    Akio Sugeno, Vice President of Telehouse and founder of NYIIX, said: “EVPN is a game changer for us. It is a next-generation VPN solution that provides a unified architecture, in both the control and data planes, and solved many of our requirements. With our new EVPN implementation from Nokia we police and control broadcast, unknown-unicast and multicast traffic entering our network while also rate-limiting ARP requests, so they do not flood our network. With this same protocol, we are also able to implement load balancing techniques between our edge and the customer’s network to increase resiliency and network availability. Finally, with EVPN’s auto-configuration capabilities we can simplify operational complexity across the entire lifecycle of our VPNs.”

    Additionally, the virulent rise in cybercrime has made anti-DDoS solutions critical. Nokia partnered with NL-ix for an industry-first deployment of an anti-DDoS solution that performs mitigation directly on the router, avoiding dedicated scrubbing centers that would push up transport costs and impact latency. Nokia’s AI-enhanced Deepfield Defender actively detects DDoS attacks and then instructs Nokia’s FP5 silicon to block those packet flows without any impact on other router traffic.

    Jan Hoogenboom, Founder and Chief Vision Officer at NL-ix, said: “With this innovative anti-DDoS solution from Nokia we can provide our customers with security across their entire area of operations as we pursue our goal of zero enterprise downtime. We are now a one-stop-shop for Europe-wide connectivity and security, saving our customers the hassle of working with multiple parties or making complex arrangements to be protected by a third party.”

    Vach Kompella, Senior Vice President and General Manager of IP Networks business at Nokia, said: “As the nerve centers of the Internet, the world’s largest IXPs are host to every type of traffic and customer, and in response they have reset expectations around networking innovation – driving the highest levels of uptime, reliability and security with Nokia solutions. We are proud to be the leading provider of networking infrastructure solutions for these critical organizations.”  

    Nokia has won contracts with 23 IXPs, and has publicly announced wins with Telehouse NYIIX, NL-ix, LINX, LINX NoVa, BIX, DE-CIX, France-ix, ESpanix, LINX Nairobi, TOP-ix and TREX.

    Resources and additional information 
    Webpage: 7750 Service Router | Nokia
    Webpage: FP5 network processor | Nokia
    Webpage: Optical networks | Nokia
    Webpage: Deepfield Defender | Nokia

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

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

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    # # #

    Media inquiries
    Nokia, Corporate Communications
    Email: Press.Services@nokia.com

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Third Meeting of the Interagency Steering Committee on Combating Cybercrime in Kazakhstan

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: Third Meeting of the Interagency Steering Committee on Combating Cybercrime in Kazakhstan

    Third Meeting of the Interagency Steering Committee on Combating Cybercrime in Kazakhstan, Astana, 18 September 2024 (OSCE/Akbota Sarzhanova) Photo details

    On 18 September 2024, the OSCE Programme Office in Astana held the third and final meeting of the Interagency Steering Committee on the development of Kazakhstan’s first Comprehensive Action Plan to Counter Cybercrimes and Crimes using Information and Communication Technologies for 2025-2029 (hereinafter, Action Plan). The initiative is part of the extrabudgetary project “Supporting the Republic of Kazakhstan in the Development of Effective Policies to Counter Cybercrimes (Phase I)”, implemented by the Office in co-operation with the Ministry of Interior of Kazakhstan, and with the support of the Presidential Administration of Kazakhstan.
    The meeting brought together over 80 representatives from law enforcement and government agencies, including representatives from 20 police departments, leading national and international experts in combating cybercrime, as well as representatives from the private sector. Discussions focused on finalizing the draft of the Action Plan, refining the plan’s activities, and determining the methods and timelines for implementation.
    Dr. Volker Frobarth, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Astana, addressed the meeting, stating, “I would like to extend my gratitude to our key partner, the Ministry of Interior. Your staff are on the front lines of the daily fight against cybercrime. We recognize the significant challenges they face in investigating these crimes and bringing offenders to justice. Rest assured, both as an organization and as the Office, we are committed to providing full support to your Ministry in advancing initiatives aimed at combating cybercrime.”
    This expert-level meeting builds on the progress made during the first and second meetings in this format, where participants reviewed key findings and recommendations for improving the country’s ability to combat cybercrime, based on the analysis of the current situation in Kazakhstan and the international experience of OSCE and OECD countries in effectively combating cybercrime. Special attention was paid to discussing mechanisms and methods to increase the effectiveness of countering new challenges and threats, improving the cybercrime prevention system, and ensuring respect for human rights and freedoms throughout the project’s implementation.
    Deputy  Minister of the Interior, Aidos Rysbaev, noted the importance of this collaborative effort, stating, “Since last year, we have launched a joint initiative with the OSCE Programme Office in Astana and other government agencies to develop effective policies for combating cybercrime. The Interagency Steering Committee has been established under the Ministry of Interior, and a draft Action Plan is already in place.”
    A key outcome of the meeting was the recognition of the need to strengthen and expand international co-operation, establish mechanisms for interagency interaction, and enhance partnerships within a “whole-of-society” approach, thereby improving the effectiveness of identifying, investigating, preventing, and mitigating cybercrimes.
    The extrabudgetary project is supported by the governments of the Federal Republic of Germany and the Kingdom of Norway, and aligns with Kazakhstan’s ongoing efforts to join the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime. As Kazakhstan advances its cybercrime policies, the Action Plan will serve as a vital roadmap, ensuring the country is well-equipped to navigate the escalating challenges of the digital age.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Germany: Germany’s international investment position at the end of 2023

    Source: Deutsche Bundesbank in English

    At the end of 2023, Germany’s net external assets totalled €2,964 billion, thus amounting to just over 70% of Germany’s nominal gross domestic product (GDP). Overall, both assets and liabilities vis-à-vis non-residents rose further in 2023. This was especially true of claims and liabilities from cross-border portfolio investment. However, corporate ties resulting from direct investment by German investors also continued to expand in 2023. By contrast, both assets and liabilities from other investment declined. These include loans and trade credits (where these do not constitute direct investment) as well as currency and deposits. However, as German liabilities in this segment fell even more sharply than claims in 2023, the other investment balance also rose. In net terms, Germany’s net external assets at the end of 2023 were €206 billion higher than at the end of 2022. This increase was attributable in large part to the surplus on the German current account and the resulting net capital exports.
    Net external assets rise on the year once again
    At the end of 2023, Germany’s net external assets stood at €2,964 billion. This was slightly more than 70 % of nominal gross domestic product and meant that this ratio remained virtually unchanged on the year. In 2023, the German net external asset position rose by around €206 billion in absolute terms. Claims on non-residents were up on the year by €381 billion (or 3.1 %) to €12,579 billion; liabilities rose by €175 billion (or 1.9%) to €9,616 billion. Claims mainly reflected transaction-related changes, i.e. asset purchases, as well as positive market price effects. The exchange rate effect, meanwhile, was negative: as the euro effectively appreciated against the currencies of its most important trading partners over the course of the year,[1] the value, in euro terms, of German assets abroad tended to drop where they were reported in a foreign currency. Other non-transaction-related adjustments had a positive impact on Germany’s external assets.[2] The rise in German foreign liabilities was mainly attributable to market price effects, which predominantly occurred around year-end, driven by a more favourable inflation outlook and expectations of falling key interest rates.
    The cross-border transactions recorded in the financial account resulted in net capital exports of €250 billion last year, in line with Germany’s current account surplus. Non-transaction-related changes reduced the increase by €44 billion, however. On balance, negative market price and exchange rate effects were contributory factors. Other adjustments made a positive overall contribution to Germany’s external position.
    Surplus in portfolio investment slightly higher than in 2022
    At €807 billion, the portfolio investment balance at the end of 2023 was around €23 billion higher than in the previous year. Securities claims on non-residents slightly outpaced the corresponding liabilities.[3]
    At the end of 2023, resident investors held foreign securities totalling €4,004 billion, up by €392 billion (or 10.9 %) on the previous year. The rise was mainly the result of net purchases of foreign bonds and positive market price effects. The relative strength of the euro, meanwhile, caused mostly negative exchange rate effects on the assets side. Alongside foreign bonds, resident investors also bought foreign investment fund shares and money market papers. However, they sold foreign shares – in small amounts.
    At the end of 2023, non-resident investors held German securities to the tune of €3,197 billion in their portfolios, which was €369 billion (or 13.1 %) more than at the end of 2022. This was mainly the result of positive market price effects, especially in relation to shares and long-term debt securities. Transactions recorded in the financial account also contributed to the build-up of holdings. On balance, non-resident investors almost exclusively bought German long-term debt securities, as well as, to a lesser extent, short-term debt securities. By contrast, they were net sellers of German shares and investment fund shares.
    Drop in the positive balance for financial derivatives
    At the end of 2023, holdings of financial derivatives and employee stock options registered a positive balance of €27 billion. This was, however, only slightly more than half the size of the previous year’s balance. In 2022, Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine had triggered severe disruptions in the energy markets and caused considerable net capital exports in forward and futures contracts relating to electricity and gas.
    Further expansion in direct investment
    Cross-border corporate ties involving German firms continued to expand in 2023. German outward direct investment was up on the year by a total of €85 billion (3.0 %) to €2,929 billion, an increase that was, on balance, exclusively attributable to transactions. In particular, German investors boosted their equity capital in enterprises abroad, but also issued additional loans to affiliated group entities. The effective appreciation of the euro meant that exchange rate effects had a negative impact on Germany’s outward foreign direct investment stocks. These valuation losses were, however, largely offset by positive other adjustments and slightly positive market price effects. 
    Non-resident enterprises increased their direct investment in Germany by €26 billion (1.3 %) to €1,995 billion in 2023, with transactions accounting for just over two-thirds of this total. Non-resident investors augmented their equity capital in German enterprises but reduced their intra-group lending to domestic enterprises. 
    On balance, Germany’s direct investment balance at the end of 2023 amounted to around €933 billion and was therefore €59 billion higher than at year-end 2022.
    Other investment: net claims higher
    In other investment, comprising loans and trade credits (where these do not constitute direct investment) as well as currency and deposits amongst others, Germany’s positive net asset position rose by €133 billion on the year, bringing it up to €905 billion at the end of 2023. The Bundesbank’s external claims in this segment fell by €174 billion, which was, on balance, exclusively attributable to the Bundesbank’s lower TARGET balance vis-à-vis the ECB.[4] At the same time, the Bundesbank’s external liabilities in other investment declined, as non-euro area counterparties reduced their deposits with the Bank. On balance, the Bundesbank’s net external position in other investment sank by €33 billion. Monetary financial institutions (excluding the central bank) granted additional loans to non-residents and expanded their holdings of currency and deposits. In both segments, negative valuation effects as a result of exchange rate changes reduced the overall effect on outstanding claims, which rose by €19 billion on balance. Non-residents’ deposits with German monetary financial institutions (excluding the Bundesbank) came down by €65 billion. Overall, the balance of monetary financial institutions (excluding the central bank) in other investment rose by €84 billion last year. General government also recorded a rise in its net claims, by €9 billion, in 2023. By contrast, other investment by enterprises and households swelled by €73 billion on balance. At the end of 2023, claims on non-residents arising from other investment had dropped by €17 billion, or 0.4 %, to €3,867 billion across all sectors. External liabilities fell even more sharply; they stood at €2,963 billion at year-end 2023, down €150 billion, or 4.8 %, on the year. 
    Increase in reserve assets
    The Bundesbank’s reserve assets amounted to €292 billion at the end of 2023 and were therefore up by €16 billion on the previous year. They grew only marginally by €1 billion as a result of transactions. Reserve asset holdings increased on the back of positive market price effects, in particular (€18 billion), with the rise in the price of gold dominating. Taken in isolation, the appreciation of the euro against the US dollar and other important currencies brought the value of reserve assets down by €3 billion.
    uncollectable credit claims, changes in sector classifications, changes in the functional category of a financing instrument, as well as statistical discrepancies between the international investment position and the balance of payments due to differing data sources, for example.
    Footnotes:
    The fact that the Eurosystem raised key interest rates was also a factor. 
    Non-transaction-related changes include valuation effects as a result of exchange rate or market price movements and other adjustments. Other adjustments include, for instance, write-downs on uncollectable credit claims, changes in sector classifications, changes in the functional category of a financing instrument, as well as statistical discrepancies between the international investment position and the balance of payments due to differing data sources, for example.
    For more information on transactions in portfolio investment, see Deutsche Bundesbank, German balance of payments in 2023, Monthly Report, March 2024.
    The Bundesbank’s TARGET claims on the ECB dropped by €176 billion in 2023. That was attributable, amongst other things, to the fact that payments from maturing securities under the asset purchase programme (APP) were no longer being reinvested in full. Reinvestments under the APP were discontinued as of July 2023. See Deutsche Bundesbank, German balance of payments in 2023, Monthly Report, March 2024.

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI German News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Germany’s international investment position at the end of 2023

    Source: Deutsche Bundesbank in English

    At the end of 2023, Germany’s net external assets totalled €2,964 billion, thus amounting to just over 70% of Germany’s nominal gross domestic product (GDP). Overall, both assets and liabilities vis-à-vis non-residents rose further in 2023. This was especially true of claims and liabilities from cross-border portfolio investment. However, corporate ties resulting from direct investment by German investors also continued to expand in 2023. By contrast, both assets and liabilities from other investment declined. These include loans and trade credits (where these do not constitute direct investment) as well as currency and deposits. However, as German liabilities in this segment fell even more sharply than claims in 2023, the other investment balance also rose. In net terms, Germany’s net external assets at the end of 2023 were €206 billion higher than at the end of 2022. This increase was attributable in large part to the surplus on the German current account and the resulting net capital exports.
    Net external assets rise on the year once again
    At the end of 2023, Germany’s net external assets stood at €2,964 billion. This was slightly more than 70 % of nominal gross domestic product and meant that this ratio remained virtually unchanged on the year. In 2023, the German net external asset position rose by around €206 billion in absolute terms. Claims on non-residents were up on the year by €381 billion (or 3.1 %) to €12,579 billion; liabilities rose by €175 billion (or 1.9%) to €9,616 billion. Claims mainly reflected transaction-related changes, i.e. asset purchases, as well as positive market price effects. The exchange rate effect, meanwhile, was negative: as the euro effectively appreciated against the currencies of its most important trading partners over the course of the year,[1] the value, in euro terms, of German assets abroad tended to drop where they were reported in a foreign currency. Other non-transaction-related adjustments had a positive impact on Germany’s external assets.[2] The rise in German foreign liabilities was mainly attributable to market price effects, which predominantly occurred around year-end, driven by a more favourable inflation outlook and expectations of falling key interest rates.
    The cross-border transactions recorded in the financial account resulted in net capital exports of €250 billion last year, in line with Germany’s current account surplus. Non-transaction-related changes reduced the increase by €44 billion, however. On balance, negative market price and exchange rate effects were contributory factors. Other adjustments made a positive overall contribution to Germany’s external position.
    Surplus in portfolio investment slightly higher than in 2022
    At €807 billion, the portfolio investment balance at the end of 2023 was around €23 billion higher than in the previous year. Securities claims on non-residents slightly outpaced the corresponding liabilities.[3]
    At the end of 2023, resident investors held foreign securities totalling €4,004 billion, up by €392 billion (or 10.9 %) on the previous year. The rise was mainly the result of net purchases of foreign bonds and positive market price effects. The relative strength of the euro, meanwhile, caused mostly negative exchange rate effects on the assets side. Alongside foreign bonds, resident investors also bought foreign investment fund shares and money market papers. However, they sold foreign shares – in small amounts.
    At the end of 2023, non-resident investors held German securities to the tune of €3,197 billion in their portfolios, which was €369 billion (or 13.1 %) more than at the end of 2022. This was mainly the result of positive market price effects, especially in relation to shares and long-term debt securities. Transactions recorded in the financial account also contributed to the build-up of holdings. On balance, non-resident investors almost exclusively bought German long-term debt securities, as well as, to a lesser extent, short-term debt securities. By contrast, they were net sellers of German shares and investment fund shares.
    Drop in the positive balance for financial derivatives
    At the end of 2023, holdings of financial derivatives and employee stock options registered a positive balance of €27 billion. This was, however, only slightly more than half the size of the previous year’s balance. In 2022, Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine had triggered severe disruptions in the energy markets and caused considerable net capital exports in forward and futures contracts relating to electricity and gas.
    Further expansion in direct investment
    Cross-border corporate ties involving German firms continued to expand in 2023. German outward direct investment was up on the year by a total of €85 billion (3.0 %) to €2,929 billion, an increase that was, on balance, exclusively attributable to transactions. In particular, German investors boosted their equity capital in enterprises abroad, but also issued additional loans to affiliated group entities. The effective appreciation of the euro meant that exchange rate effects had a negative impact on Germany’s outward foreign direct investment stocks. These valuation losses were, however, largely offset by positive other adjustments and slightly positive market price effects. 
    Non-resident enterprises increased their direct investment in Germany by €26 billion (1.3 %) to €1,995 billion in 2023, with transactions accounting for just over two-thirds of this total. Non-resident investors augmented their equity capital in German enterprises but reduced their intra-group lending to domestic enterprises. 
    On balance, Germany’s direct investment balance at the end of 2023 amounted to around €933 billion and was therefore €59 billion higher than at year-end 2022.
    Other investment: net claims higher
    In other investment, comprising loans and trade credits (where these do not constitute direct investment) as well as currency and deposits amongst others, Germany’s positive net asset position rose by €133 billion on the year, bringing it up to €905 billion at the end of 2023. The Bundesbank’s external claims in this segment fell by €174 billion, which was, on balance, exclusively attributable to the Bundesbank’s lower TARGET balance vis-à-vis the ECB.[4] At the same time, the Bundesbank’s external liabilities in other investment declined, as non-euro area counterparties reduced their deposits with the Bank. On balance, the Bundesbank’s net external position in other investment sank by €33 billion. Monetary financial institutions (excluding the central bank) granted additional loans to non-residents and expanded their holdings of currency and deposits. In both segments, negative valuation effects as a result of exchange rate changes reduced the overall effect on outstanding claims, which rose by €19 billion on balance. Non-residents’ deposits with German monetary financial institutions (excluding the Bundesbank) came down by €65 billion. Overall, the balance of monetary financial institutions (excluding the central bank) in other investment rose by €84 billion last year. General government also recorded a rise in its net claims, by €9 billion, in 2023. By contrast, other investment by enterprises and households swelled by €73 billion on balance. At the end of 2023, claims on non-residents arising from other investment had dropped by €17 billion, or 0.4 %, to €3,867 billion across all sectors. External liabilities fell even more sharply; they stood at €2,963 billion at year-end 2023, down €150 billion, or 4.8 %, on the year. 
    Increase in reserve assets
    The Bundesbank’s reserve assets amounted to €292 billion at the end of 2023 and were therefore up by €16 billion on the previous year. They grew only marginally by €1 billion as a result of transactions. Reserve asset holdings increased on the back of positive market price effects, in particular (€18 billion), with the rise in the price of gold dominating. Taken in isolation, the appreciation of the euro against the US dollar and other important currencies brought the value of reserve assets down by €3 billion.
    uncollectable credit claims, changes in sector classifications, changes in the functional category of a financing instrument, as well as statistical discrepancies between the international investment position and the balance of payments due to differing data sources, for example.
    Footnotes:
    The fact that the Eurosystem raised key interest rates was also a factor. 
    Non-transaction-related changes include valuation effects as a result of exchange rate or market price movements and other adjustments. Other adjustments include, for instance, write-downs on uncollectable credit claims, changes in sector classifications, changes in the functional category of a financing instrument, as well as statistical discrepancies between the international investment position and the balance of payments due to differing data sources, for example.
    For more information on transactions in portfolio investment, see Deutsche Bundesbank, German balance of payments in 2023, Monthly Report, March 2024.
    The Bundesbank’s TARGET claims on the ECB dropped by €176 billion in 2023. That was attributable, amongst other things, to the fact that payments from maturing securities under the asset purchase programme (APP) were no longer being reinvested in full. Reinvestments under the APP were discontinued as of July 2023. See Deutsche Bundesbank, German balance of payments in 2023, Monthly Report, March 2024.

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pan-African partnership reaches milestone for long-term climate finance solutions in Kenya

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Mobilisation of climate finance set to be boosted across East Africa through new UK-backed company as investors put pen to paper to begin operations.

    • Investors back Dhamana Guarantee Company’s work to transform East Africa’s financial landscape.

    • Tackling climate change given another boost in Kenya as, for second time in a week, a UK-Government backed investor in green finance solutions puts pen to paper.

    Monday 30 September 2024 – Dhamana Guarantee Company Ltd (Dhamana) has reached a major milestone, marked at an event in Nairobi today.

    Investors in the new company put pen to paper at a signing ceremony, which will allow the company to kick-start operations.

    Dhamana aims to mobilise private sector finance to support the development of sustainable businesses. It will do so by issuing guarantees to commercially viable projects, businesses, and institutions that tackle the climate crisis and make progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    The design and creation of the company was supported by the UK-Government backed investor the Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG) through InfraCo Africa. With its anchor investment, PIDG kick-started Dhamana, attracting further equity investment from the African Development Bank (AfDB) and CPF Group, with support provided by Cardano Development and FSD Africa.

    Dhamana is a new limited liability company based in Kenya with a mandate to deliver for the East African region – including – Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda. It will provide credit guarantees on debt capital market instruments, to boost the credit rating of such instruments and crowd in investment from pension funds, insurance companies and sovereign wealth funds to support sustainable infrastructure and business development in East Africa.

    Dhamana will target businesses that add value to people’s lives, improving the day-to-day life of Kenyans and of people across the region. The increase in affordable finance for Kenyan businesses will mean projects will require less capital to get off the ground, make money, and generate growth. Dhamana will also enable investors to diversify their portfolios, acting as a catalyst to transform East Africa’s financing landscape.

    This is the second time in a week that an investor in climate solutions backed by the UK Government has achieved a milestone. Last week, MOBILIST signed a partnership with the Nairobi Securities Exchange which aims to drive the listing of new investment products in the Kenyan market and increase the amount of private sector capital available for development and climate projects in Kenya and drive growth.

    Dhamana CEO, Christopher Olobo, said:

    With the support of our investors and supporters, we have worked to develop Dhamana as an important catalyst for long-term sustainable finance in the region. Dhamana’s local currency guarantees will connect pools of untapped capital with East Africa’s real economy, making a tangible difference to people’s lives and offering local investors the opportunity to invest in Paris-aligned initiatives.

    Deputy High Commissioner and Development Director, British High Commission Nairobi, Leigh Stubblefield, said:

    For the second time in a week I am proud to say that the UK has supported a climate finance solution in Kenya – an example of our long-term commitment to long-term investment and growth. This is a great pan-Africa partnership that will improve the lives of East Africans for the better, and as the saying goes, we go far when we go together.

    Representing PIDG, InfraCo Africa CEO, Gilles Vaes, added:

    Building on the success of other PIDG-supported credit enhancement facilities in Nigeria and Pakistan, Dhamana will demonstrate the value of such a facility in the East African market, opening up opportunities for investors and clients alike. Crucially, Dhamana will engage new partners and investors in our efforts to urgently address the climate crisis and accelerate delivery of the UN sustainable development goals.

    In his remarks at the launch event, Solomon Quaynor, African Development Bank Vice President for Private Sector, Infrastructure & Industrialisation, said:

    The African Development Bank’s equity investment in Dhamana reinforces the catalytic role and potential of credit enhancement companies in leveraging opportunities for infrastructure financing in local currency and supporting debt capital markets deepening in our regional member countries. We intend to replicate this business model in appropriate markets across Africa with partners such as the Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG) and others. The first example of this type of credit enhancement company was InfraCredit in Nigeria which has had demonstrated success, and now Dhamana in East Africa. The investment in Dhamana aligns with the Bank’s priority to mobilise financing through innovative vehicles from African institutional funds including pension funds, sovereign wealth funds and insurance companies for infrastructure development in Africa.

    On his part, Dr. Hosea Kili, OGW – CPF Group Managing Director/CEO – said:

    We are proud to be part of this transformative initiative through Dhamana Guarantee Company. We believe in the power of innovative financial solutions to drive sustainable growth. By leveraging local currency guarantees, Dhamana will unlock critical capital for critical infrastructure projects, advancing economic development. This partnership aligns with our commitment to investing in initiatives that improve the lives of people’s lives and our economy while contributing to a more sustainable future.

    Joost Zuidberg, CEO of Cardano Development concluded:

    Dhamana’s true strength lies in its capacity to attract significant investments from East Africa’s institutional capital, laying a strong foundation for future scaling up according to its sizeable potential and thus meaningfully contribute to sustained economic growth in the region. Part of our core work is to incubate guarantee solutions for emerging and frontier markets, and we are thrilled to formalise this partnership today, as we collectively provide Dhamana with the crucial support and capital needed to fulfil this vital objective.

    NOTES FOR EDITORS

    The UK-Kenya Strategic Partnership

    The UK-Kenya strategic partnership joint statement can be found here.

    About Dhamana

    Dhamana Guarantee Company (Dhamana): Dhamana is working to catalyse the development of domestic capital markets in East Africa. It does this by connecting significant under-utilised sources of domestic institutional capital with the real economy, such as new green infrastructure, and providers of credit to  businesses. This increases access and the affordability of local capital, providing new low-risk opportunities for local investors. Dhamana will also serve to provide a portfolio of businesses with access to the local currency capital needed to deliver bankable projects, meeting the high demand for new affordable housing, transportation, water, and energy infrastructure, and promoting long term economic development. http://www.dhamana.com

    About PIDG

    The Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG) is an innovative infrastructure project developer and investor which mobilises private investment in sustainable and inclusive infrastructure in sub-Saharan Africa and south and south-east Asia. PIDG investments promote socio-economic development within a just transition to net zero emissions, combat poverty and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). PIDG delivers its ambition in line with its values of pioneering, partnership, safety, inclusivity, and urgency. PIDG offers Technical Assistance for upstream, early-stage activities and concessional capital; its project development arm – which includes InfraCo Africa and InfraCo Asia – invests in early-stage project development and project and corporate equity. PIDG credit solutions include EAIF (the Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund), one of the first and more successful blended debt funds in low-income markets; GuarantCo, its guarantee arm that provides credit enhancement and local currency solutions to de-risk projects; and a growing portfolio of local credit enhancement facilities, which unlocks domestic institutional capital for infrastructure financing. Since 2002, PIDG has supported 233 infrastructure projects to financial close, which provided an estimated 228 million people with access to new or improved infrastructure. PIDG is funded by the governments of the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Australia, Sweden, Global Affairs Canada, Germany, and the IFC. http://www.pidg.org

    About the African Development Bank (AfDB)

    The African Development Bank (AfDB) is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 34 African countries with an external office in Japan, the AfDB contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. http://www.afdb.org

    About the CPF Group

    The CPF Group offers a comprehensive range of services through its various subsidiaries including  CPF Financial Services which administers both private and public pension funds; notably – the Public Service Superannuation Scheme (PSSS); The Local Authorities Pensions Trust (LAPTRUST); the Taifa Pension Fund; the County Pension Fund and CPF Individual Pension Plan. The funds under our administration have a total membership of just over 500,000 members.

    Other subsidiaries include Laser Infrastructure & Technology Solutions (LITES); Laser Property Services; Rukisha Advances payment platform; CPF Asset Managers; CPF Capital & Advisory; and Laser Insurance Brokers (LIB).  The Group offers a wide range of services in ICT & renewable energy solutions, Property Services, Insurance Brokerage, Smart Money platform, fund management, Transaction Advisory, Trust fund services, training & consultancy, and Corporate Trustee Services. Derived from uncompromised commitment to fulfilling lives, the CPF Group prioritises new models and approaches in engineering turnkey solutions for clients across the region. http://www.cpfgroup.or.ke

    About Cardano Development

    Cardano Development (CD), established in 2007, incubates new companies, and creates and manages fund managers. Through careful risk-management analysis in data poor settings, CD identifies scalable solutions that can help to make frontier financial markets more inclusive, investible, and sustainable to unlock lasting economic value. CD creates scalable solutions for currency, credit, and liquidity risks in these markets. With over USD 6 billion assets and USD 3.1 billion capital under management, CD supports scale-up ventures (TCX, GuarantCo, Frontclear, BIX Capital, ILX Fund, AGRI3 Fund), and a number of new start-ups, with ongoing management support services and corporate governance oversight. http://www.cardanodevelopment.com.

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: 21 startups transforming education with AI

    Source: Google

    Picture a world where students, regardless of their background, can learn in a personalized way. Imagine teachers with tools that anticipate their needs, freeing them to focus on what they do best: inspiring and guiding their class. This isn’t a distant dream, but a reality being shaped by entrepreneurs in the Google for Startups Growth Academy: AI for Education program.

    Selected from a pool of more than 600 applicants from across Europe, Africa and the Middle East, the 21 participating startups are all using AI to create more inclusive, engaging and effective educational pathways. From building intelligent tutors that adapt to each student’s pace, to platforms that make education accessible even in remote areas, we can’t wait to see the impact they’ll have on learners around the world.

    Each founder and their team will receive three months of mentorship by Google experts, resources to help grow their technology, business and global reach, and a collaborative community of fellow founders to support one another. Learn more about the Google for Startups Growth Academy: AI for Education cohort:

    • Angaza Elimu (Kenya): An eLearning platform that creates a more personalized and engaging experience, fostering stronger connections between learners and teachers.
    • BLISKO (Poland): An AI-powered platform that personalizes learning for children ages 0-6, that focuses on building strong relationships and creating personalized learning plans that fit each child’s unique needs, abilities and interests
    • Complori (Germany): A hybrid learning platform that equips children, ages 7-16, with hard skills such as technological understanding and programming, and soft skills through live and online group lessons.
    • Correcto (Spain): An AI-powered platform that enhances Spanish writing skills, offering tools tailored for Spanish-speaking users.
    • Digify Africa (South Africa): A high-tech learning platform, delivered via a low-tech interface, that improves access to education for low-income learners.
    • eKidz (Germany): An app that makes acquiring literacy and a new language easy and accessible for every child. Utilizing a purpose-built AI voice recognition students with precise diagnostics and support.
    • EvidenceB (France): An AI tutoring platform that works for any subject, available as a subscription service. Teachers get helpful data insights to guide their instruction.
    • ExamSolutions (UK): An AI-powered tutoring platform combining visual, auditory and textual content tailored for learning and exam preparation for math at GCSE & A-level.
    • Hawkings Education (Spain): An AI online learning system, making the experience more personalized for students and giving teachers better tools.
    • Jotit (Israel): A first of its kind, turning any standard Chromebook or tablet into an all-in-one learning space, creating a focused, distraction-free environment which keeps handwriting at its core.
    • LearnWise AI (Netherlands): A platform empowering universities and colleges worldwide to revolutionize student support through custom AI assistants.
    • MOONHUB (UK): A VR training platform that allows people to train like they were on the job from anywhere, any time to assess how people react to their observed virtual worlds.
    • Optima (UAE): An AI-powered education platform and course creation engine with a focus on data and AI engineering skills. Optima’s approach combines live interactive sessions, self-paced learning and AI-assisted tutoring.
    • OpenCyberAI (United Kingdom): An educational platform dedicated to cybersecurity, offering virtual simulations through interactive training, powered by an AI personalizing your learning path.
    • Pandatron (Finland): A platform supports talent development and helps employees adapt to digital and cultural changes by using AI-powered coaching conversations to identify underlying issues within the organization.
    • SignLab (Norway): An AI sign language digital platform that makes learning more accessible, effective, and affordable.
    • Story Spark (United Kingdom): An AI-powered story generator and reading platform for children combining innovative literacy education with engaging and personalized content.
    • ubiMaster (Germany): A live, personal online tutor platform designed to make learning with experts easy and widely available.
    • Utiva Education (Nigeria): A tech platform that helps people in Africa learn skills needed for global jobs, enabling companies to hire talent across different regions and increasing employment in the region.
    • Wilco (Israel): A platform helping both businesses and software vendors easily provide high-end training and education materials for their employees, candidates or users.
    • Wiloki (France): An online tutoring platform for children ages 7-14, using AI-powered tools to personalize the learning path according to each child’s unique educational profile and motivational triggers.

    As we continue to explore the possibilities of AI in education, one thing is certain: The path towards more personalized, effective and inspiring learning experiences has just begun.

    Learn more about our selected startups at startup.google.com.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Compliance of the German Government’s decision to reintroduce border controls with EU law – P-001801/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-001801/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Jadwiga Wiśniewska (ECR)

    The German Government’s introduction of controls at all borders on 16 September 2024 is a legal measure that is incompatible with the principles of proportionality and non-discrimination, as well as with the rules laid down in the Schengen Borders Code, and it is resulting in discrimination against EU citizens. Neighbouring countries are particularly affected, leading to a decline in trade, delays and disruption to border regions.

    Member States may bring a matter before the Court of Justice of the European Union if they consider that another Member State has failed to fulfil one of its obligations under the Treaties. This act must be preceded by a complaint to the Commission, as guardian of the Treaties.

    In light of the above, could the Commission please clarify the following:

    • 1.What serious threat to public policy or internal security, within the meaning of Article 25 of the Schengen Borders Code, has the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany indicated to justify the temporary reintroduction of border controls at internal borders?
    • 2.Has the German Government provided the Commission with evidence that the introduction of controls is necessary and justified and that the measure complies with the principles of proportionality and non-discrimination?
    • 3.Has a complaint been lodged with the Commisson against Germany in respect of the violation of obligations under the Treaties under Article 259 TfEU? If so, which Member State lodged the complaint, and is the Commission preparing a reasoned opinion on it?

    Submitted: 24.9.2024

    Last updated: 30 September 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Deputy President calls on the UK to raise tariff-free quota on wine from SA

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Deputy President Paul Mashatile has called on the United Kingdom government to raise the tariff-free quota (TFQ) on wine and sugar coming from South Africa. 

    The Southern African Customs Union (SACU) and the Mozambique Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) include provisions for a 70/30 split between bottled and bulk wine throughout the trade relationship. 

    “As the South African government, we urge flexibility for a 50/50 split. In our view, this does not necessitate an amendment of the EPA but can be a decision of the SACUM-UK Joint Council.

    “South Africa has requested that the United Kingdom raise the TRQ amounts allowed under the Environmental Protection Agency Framework for South African sugar to 171 thousand tonnes and for wine to 150 million litres,” he said on Monday. 

    The TFQ for imports of South African wine into the United Kingdom is currently sitting at 71.5 million litres per annum, which applies to 30% bulk and 70% packaged wine.

    “We call for the UK to agree to this change which is mutually beneficial and will benefit the UK bottling industry.”

    Deputy President Mashatile was speaking during the South African Heritage Month dinner hosted by Brand South Africa in London.

    The country’s second-in-command is in London for the second leg of his working visit to improve trade and investment relations between the two nations. 

    He said he believed that if South Africa could introduce local umqombothi, also known as African beer, or more wine to the global market, the country could double exports from South Africa to the United Kingdom, Germany, the United States, Netherlands and Canada.

    The Deputy President said another element that has worked to construct a robust economy and enhance economic relations with the United Kingdom is the conventional interchange of commodities and services, such as food and clothes. 

    “As you run your company and live in this area of the globe, you must show that South Africa is a nation moulded by a diverse range of cultures, languages, and traditions, all of which contribute to the vivid mosaic that defines South Africa.”

    Government of National Unity

    Shifting his focus to the Government of National Unity (GNU), he said the coalition government has demonstrated that South Africa embraces its diversity. 

    “We have shown to the world that, despite our differences, we can work together for a single goal – to create a stronger South Africa. We have also shown the world that our rainbow country has a thriving democracy.”

    He told the attendees that he was convinced that the GNU would endure and achieve its goals of driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty, addressing the high cost of living, and establishing a competent, ethical, and progressive State. 

    “However, as we mark 30 years of freedom this year, we must remember those who were at the forefront of the liberation of our nation and spent years in exile advocating for a peaceful and democratic South Africa.”

    The Deputy President paid tribute to those who continue to raise the South African flag high internationally by contributing to the welfare of their fellow citizens and the economy. 

    “We refer to these people as Global South Africans. Now to all South Africans living, working, studying or travelling abroad, it is an exciting time for you to be a Global South African – to be part of the South African story, to be a son or daughter of Africa, to be directly connected to what we confidently predict will be the African century.” 

    He applauded Brand South Africa for launching the Global South African programme, as the country works to position itself as a global player in an increasingly competitive world. 

    “We believe that as Global South Africans you are an untapped voice and advocates who can elevate our nation’s brand position to greater heights in international markets, whilst also shaping perceptions and the narrative about our beautiful and beloved country.” – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: OpenHW Group to Join the Eclipse Foundation, Expanding Open Source RISC-V Innovation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BRUSSELS and OTTAWA, Oct. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a joint announcement today, the Eclipse Foundation, one of the world’s leading open source software foundations, and OpenHW Group, a global leader in developing open source RISC-V processor cores and IP, revealed that OpenHW will become part of the Eclipse Foundation. This strategic collaboration, set to be finalised by December 2024, will accelerate the development of open source hardware technologies, offering a robust, open alternative to proprietary architectures. This move will benefit a wide array of industries, including artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, IoT, automotive, and high-performance computing (HPC).

    Founded in 2019, OpenHW Group immediately established a strategic partnership with the Eclipse Foundation, drawing on Eclipse’s expertise to deliver key services, including development processes, IP management, IT infrastructure, and back-office operations. This long-standing collaboration has laid the foundation for a seamless integration, strengthening OpenHW’s mission to provide verified, industrial grade, open source cores that are ready for commercial-grade SoC production.

    As part of this transition, OpenHW Group will be renamed the OpenHW Foundation, bringing its extensive network of more than 100 members and partners into the Eclipse Foundation’s open source ecosystem, including prominent organisations such as Barcelona Supercomputing Center, CEA, Red Hat, Silicon Labs, and Thales. By joining forces with the Eclipse Foundation, OpenHW reinforces its commitment to delivering industry-leading open hardware solutions.

    “Joining the Eclipse Foundation is a transformative moment for OpenHW, solidifying our commitment to delivering trusted open hardware solutions to the global market,” said Florian Wohlrab, CEO of OpenHW Group. “This partnership provides the long-term stability, infrastructure, and open source expertise we need to continue driving innovation in RISC-V hardware, benefiting both our members and the broader industry.”

    Mike Milinkovich, executive director of the Eclipse Foundation, added, “Throughout its five-year history, OpenHW has played a pivotal role in pushing the boundaries of open source hardware. Together, we’re now much better positioned to advance cutting-edge technologies in areas like AI, software-defined vehicles, and the Industrial IoT, further strengthening the role of open source in these critical industries.”

    Bolstering Open Source Hardware Innovation

    By joining the Eclipse Foundation, OpenHW can fully focus on further developing RISC-V hardware, an open, flexible, and cost-effective architecture that enables faster innovation while removing traditional licensing barriers. The open source nature of RISC-V makes it an ideal choice for enterprises looking to disrupt markets, especially in sectors such as AI and automotive, where flexibility and scalability are critical.

    Under the governance of the Eclipse Foundation, the OpenHW Foundation will continue to lead and expand on critical projects and initiatives, including:

    • CVA6: 64/32-bit cores designed for high-performance applications like Linux-based systems. These configurable cores offer an industrial-grade platform for a wide range of applications, including those with advanced safety requirements.
    • CVE4: 32-bit embedded-class cores, optimised for IoT, edge computing, and consumer electronics, powering devices like washing machines, robots, drones, and game controllers. Typically, these cores run real-time operating systems such as Eclipse ThreadX or operate in bare-metal environments.
    • CVE2: Small, power-efficient processors, perfect for deeply embedded control applications, replacing state-machine logic in embedded devices.
    • CVA6 Platform: A vendor-neutral software validation platform supporting a variety of FPGA configurations, including cloud-based solutions like AWS ES2 FPGA instances.
    • Software Initiatives: Ongoing efforts to add extensions, improve compilers, and enhance emulators to ensure robust support for our cores across the latest technologies.

    Join OpenHW and Shape the Future of Open Processor Technologies

    As part of the Eclipse Foundation, the OpenHW Foundation is uniquely positioned to advance its mission of supporting industries ranging from embedded systems to supercomputing. By delivering high-quality, verified RISC-V cores, OpenHW meets the rigorous demands of modern applications, ensuring reliability and innovation across diverse sectors. This transition brings exciting opportunities for both existing and new stakeholders to get involved and help shape the future of open source hardware. We invite members, partners, and other stakeholders to actively engage in advancing RISC-V core development, emulation kits, and software initiatives.

    Whether you’re a developer, researcher, or an organisation, joining the OpenHW Foundation gives you direct access to a vibrant, collaborative community that drives RISC-V-based innovation. Explore opportunities to contribute, influence key initiatives, and make your mark in the open hardware community. New members are welcome to join through the Eclipse Foundation. Visit the Eclipse Membership page to learn how to become part of this exciting new chapter.

    Member Quotes

    Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC)
    “At BSC, our mission is to push the boundaries of computer architecture and supercomputing. By working closely with OpenHW, we are contributing to the development of high-performance, open source RISC-V cores that are critical to the future of high-performance computing. We are confident OpenHW joining the Eclipse Foundation will only further enhance this collaboration, offering greater opportunities for impact across the global open hardware ecosystem.” – Miquel Moretó, High Performance Domain-Specific Architectures Group Leader at BSC.

    Bluespec
    “The RISC-V community has made a tremendous impact, with millions of cores already being shipped. We’re excited to see OpenHW Group join the Eclipse Foundation and view it as a significant milestone that will drive innovation across the broader ecosystem. At Bluespec, we recognize the importance of fostering a healthy, open source environment and this collaboration ensures continued development of high-quality, industrial-grade open source RISC-V cores.” – Charlie Hauck, CEO of Bluespec.

    CEA
    “CEA has long been at the forefront of research and development in sectors such as low-carbon energy and microelectronics with its Leti institute. Our collaboration with OpenHW enables us to apply our advanced research to open source processor technology, creating new possibilities for commercial and industrial applications. As a long-time existing Strategic Member of the Eclipse Foundation, we are confident that this transition marks an exciting new chapter in our work with OpenHW, ensuring that we continue to drive meaningful innovation in both open hardware and critical global industries.” – Fabien Clermidy, Head of System Division, CEA-Leti.

    Silicon Labs
    “Silicon Labs is proud to support the OpenHW Foundation’s mission of driving innovation in open source hardware. As a leader in radio modules and wireless technologies, we recognize the importance of robust, verified processor cores that meet the demands of modern IoT applications. The Eclipse Foundation’s strong governance and OpenHW’s RISC-V expertise create a powerful platform for collaboration and growth.” – Daniel Ciooley, CTO and SVP at Silicon Labs

    Thales
    “At Thales, we are deeply committed to advancing cutting-edge technologies, and our collaboration with OpenHW aligns perfectly with this mission. Through initiatives like the Europe Tristan project, we are leveraging open source RISC-V processor cores to deliver innovative, secure solutions for the aerospace and defence sectors. The transition to the Eclipse Foundation strengthens this commitment and positions the OpenHW community to drive further breakthroughs in open hardware.” – Daniel Glazman, CTO Software (KTD), Thales Group.

    About the Eclipse Foundation
    The Eclipse Foundation provides our global community of individuals and organisations with a business-friendly environment for open source software collaboration and innovation. We host the Eclipse IDE, Adoptium, Software Defined Vehicle, Jakarta EE, and over 420 open source projects, including runtimes, tools, specifications, and frameworks for cloud and edge applications, IoT, AI, automotive, systems engineering, open processor designs, and many others. Headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, the Eclipse Foundation is an international non-profit association supported by over 360 members. Visit us at this year’s Open Community Experience (OCX) conference on 22-24 October 2024 in Mainz, Germany. To learn more, follow us on social media @EclipseFdn, LinkedIn, or visit eclipse.org.

    About OpenHW Group
    OpenHW Group is a global non-profit organisation dedicated to developing, verifying, and delivering high quality, open source RISC-V processor cores and related IP for commercial and industrial applications. With its extensive network of more than 100 members and partners, OpenHW is driving the advancement of open source processor technology across cloud, mobile, IoT, AI, automotive, HPC, and other domains. Through its CORE-V Task Group, the organisation ensures industry-aligned, high-quality development, supporting cutting-edge SoC production worldwide. OpenHW is supported by leading innovators such as Barcelona Supercomputer Center (BSC), CEA, Red Hat, Silicon Labs, and Thales. To learn more, visit openhwgroup.org.

    Third-party trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners.

    Media contacts:
    Schwartz Public Relations (Germany)
    Gloria Huppert/Marita Bäumer
    Sendlinger Straße 42A
    80331 Munich
    EclipseFoundation@schwartzpr.de
    +49 (89) 211 871 -70/ -62

    514 Media Ltd (France, Italy, Spain)
    Benoit Simoneau
    benoit@514-media.com
    M: +44 (0) 7891 920 370

    Nichols Communications (Global Press Contact)
    Jay Nichols
    jay@nicholscomm.com
    +1 408-772-1551

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Deputy President calls on the UK to raise tariff-free quota on wine, sugar from SA

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Deputy President Paul Mashatile has called on the United Kingdom government to raise the tariff-free quota (TFQ) on wine and sugar coming from South Africa. 

    The Southern African Customs Union (SACU) and the Mozambique Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) include provisions for a 70/30 split between bottled and bulk wine throughout the trade relationship. 

    “As the South African government, we urge flexibility for a 50/50 split. In our view, this does not necessitate an amendment of the EPA but can be a decision of the SACUM-UK Joint Council.

    “South Africa has requested that the United Kingdom raise the TRQ amounts allowed under the Environmental Protection Agency Framework for South African sugar to 171 thousand tonnes and for wine to 150 million litres,” he said on Monday. 

    The TFQ for imports of South African wine into the United Kingdom is currently sitting at 71.5 million litres per annum, which applies to 30% bulk and 70% packaged wine.

    “We call for the UK to agree to this change which is mutually beneficial and will benefit the UK bottling industry.”

    Deputy President Mashatile was speaking during the South African Heritage Month dinner hosted by Brand South Africa in London.

    The country’s second-in-command is in London for the second leg of his working visit to improve trade and investment relations between the two nations. 

    He said he believed that if South Africa could introduce local umqombothi, also known as African beer, or more wine to the global market, the country could double exports from South Africa to the United Kingdom, Germany, the United States, Netherlands and Canada.

    The Deputy President said another element that has worked to construct a robust economy and enhance economic relations with the United Kingdom is the conventional interchange of commodities and services, such as food and clothes. 

    “As you run your company and live in this area of the globe, you must show that South Africa is a nation moulded by a diverse range of cultures, languages, and traditions, all of which contribute to the vivid mosaic that defines South Africa.”

    Government of National Unity

    Shifting his focus to the Government of National Unity (GNU), he said the coalition government has demonstrated that South Africa embraces its diversity. 

    “We have shown to the world that, despite our differences, we can work together for a single goal – to create a stronger South Africa. We have also shown the world that our rainbow country has a thriving democracy.”

    He told the attendees that he was convinced that the GNU would endure and achieve its goals of driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty, addressing the high cost of living, and establishing a competent, ethical, and progressive State. 

    “However, as we mark 30 years of freedom this year, we must remember those who were at the forefront of the liberation of our nation and spent years in exile advocating for a peaceful and democratic South Africa.”

    The Deputy President paid tribute to those who continue to raise the South African flag high internationally by contributing to the welfare of their fellow citizens and the economy. 

    “We refer to these people as Global South Africans. Now to all South Africans living, working, studying or travelling abroad, it is an exciting time for you to be a Global South African – to be part of the South African story, to be a son or daughter of Africa, to be directly connected to what we confidently predict will be the African century.” 

    He applauded Brand South Africa for launching the Global South African programme, as the country works to position itself as a global player in an increasingly competitive world. 

    “We believe that as Global South Africans you are an untapped voice and advocates who can elevate our nation’s brand position to greater heights in international markets, whilst also shaping perceptions and the narrative about our beautiful and beloved country.” – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Consequences of Germany’s decision to close its borders to Member States, and in particular to Greece – E-001756/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001756/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Afroditi Latinopoulou (PfE)

    Germany is effectively abolishing the Schengen Treaty and closing its borders from midnight on 16 September 2024 in order to combat illegal immigration and the Islamist threat. The Minister for the Interior herself, Ms Nancy Faeser, has explained that the purpose of the move is to protect German citizens from the risks posed by Islamist terrorism and serious cross-border crime. Germany’s decision has provoked reactions throughout Europe, particularly in host countries such as Greece.

    Since the consequences of Germany’s sudden decision to close its borders are dangerous for Greece, can the Commission answer the following:

    • 1.If Germany abolishes the Schengen Treaty by closing its borders, why should Greece, a country hosting hundreds of thousands of illegal immigrants, not do the same, using all available means of dissuasion to shield its borders and hence the European Union from a fresh invasion?
    • 2.Is there any plan to review the Dublin Regulation so that the unequal share-out of the burden is addressed more effectively, especially for countries like Greece that are taking in increased flows?
    • 3.Does the EU plan to conclude transnational agreements as a bloc with countries outside its borders, so that illegal immigrants in Member States are transferred to third countries as soon as possible?

    Submitted: 18.9.2024

    Last updated: 1 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Functioning of the Schengen area and closure of German land borders – E-001698/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001698/2024/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Piotr Müller (ECR)

    Following Germany’s decision to introduce temporary controls on all land borders from 16 September 2024, without making prior arrangements with other Member States, I would like to ask the following questions:

    • 1.Did Germany formally notify the Commission of its plan to impose temporary border controls, and did it fulfil the legal grounds for this action as set out in Schengen provisions?
    • 2.How will the Commission guarantee that Germany and other Member States fulfil their commitments arising from the Pact on Migration and Asylum when Germany’s unilateral actions undermine the already questionable nature of this pact and raise the issue of double standards in relation to certain EU countries?
    • 3.How does the Commission justify its lack of a response to the unilateral imposition of border controls by Germany, which is apparently suspending the Schengen area rules, while other countries, such as Poland, are criticised for taking steps to protect their borders?

    Submitted: 12.9.2024

    Last updated: 1 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Alleged sharp rise in Ukrainian refugee women falling victim to prostitution rings – E-001766/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001766/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Mathilde Androuët (PfE)

    The Council of the EU has accepted the Commission’s proposal to extend the temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees until March 2026, including access to the labour market and to housing[1]. As of May 2024, Eurostat[2] reported 4.2 million displaced Ukrainians, mainly in Germany and Poland. According to data provided by the Federal Statistical Office in Germany, 70% of refugees are women, and only 14% of them are in employment. German media and NGOs have recently warned about a high number of ‘very young Ukrainian women’ falling victim to human traffickers and ending up in prostitution rings[3], either on the internet or in brothels, owing to a lack of accommodation and employment. There can be little doubt that this prostitution is not voluntary.

    Alarm about the increase in sexual exploitation networks involving Ukrainian refugees, including ‘via online platforms’, had already been raised in November 2022, when Valiant Richey of the OSCE[4], said that the DSA[5] was ‘silent on trafficking in human beings’[6].

    What measures has the Commission taken in the meantime, or what measures does it recommended, specifically to address this serious problem?

    Submitted: 19.9.2024

    • [1] ‘Ukrainian refugees: Council extends temporary protection until March 2026’ – Council of the European Union – 25 June 2024.
    • [2] Temporary protection for persons fleeing Ukraine – monthly statistics – Eurostat Statistics Explained -10 October 2024.
    • [3] ‘In den Bordellen sind es mittlerweile etwa 50 Prozent Ukrainerinne’, Uma Sostmann, Die Welt, 17 September 2024.
    • [4] Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe.
    • [5] Digital Services Act.
    • [6] ‘Trafficking and sexual exploitation of Ukrainian refugees on the rise’, Clara Bauer-Babef, 30 November 2022 (updated 25 August 2023).
    Last updated: 1 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the attempt by the German Federal Ministry of the Interior to impose a media ban – B10-0013/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    B10‑0013/2024

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on the attempt by the German Federal Ministry of the Interior to impose a media ban

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to Rule 149 of its Rules of Procedure,

    – having regard to Article 11 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union,

    A. Whereas on 16 July 2024 the German Federal Ministry of the Interior issued a ban on the media associations COMPACT-Magazin GmbH and CONSPECT FILM GmbH;

    B. having regard to the fact that on 14 August 2024 the Federal Administrative Court suspended in part the immediate enforcement of the ban on ‘Compact’ on the grounds that a ban was disproportionate and that less severe means should have been used to guarantee freedom of expression and freedom of the press;

    1. Notes with concern that, in banning ‘Compact’, the German Federal Ministry of the Interior attempted to restrict the freedom to express political dissent;

    2. Warns against governments controlling and restricting the flow of information through legal trickery, for example by imposing media bans by the backdoor in the guise of bans on associations;

    3. Calls for a fundamental debate to be carried out on the threats to freedom of expression and freedom of the press and the arbitrary decisions affecting them, as well as on the successful and unsuccessful media bans in Germany and other Member States of the European Union, in order to raise awareness of the dangers of increasing censorship.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hagerty, Kaine Applaud Senate Passage of Legislation to Honor Forgotten Heroes of the Holocaust

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty

    September 26, 2024

    Bipartisan legislation would award a Congressional Gold Medal honoring U.S. and foreign diplomats who risked their lives and careers to save Jews during the Holocaust
    WASHINGTON—United States Senators Bill Hagerty (R-TN) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) today applauded Senate passage of their Forgotten Heroes of the Holocaust Congressional Gold Medal Act (S. 91), a bill to honor 60 World War II-era diplomats from the United States and around the world who risked their careers and, in many instances, their lives to save others during the Holocaust. The Hagerty-Kaine legislation would posthumously award a Congressional Gold Medal collectively to these diplomats who took heroic actions to save Jews fleeing Nazi Germany, including issuing passports and travel visas and setting up safehouses and getaways to hide Jews from Nazi authorities. A version of this legislation led by Representatives Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL-27) and Ritchie Torres (D-NY-15) passed the House of Representatives on June 11, 2024.
    “As U.S. Senator and former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, I applaud Senate passage of this bipartisan legislation to posthumously honor U.S. and foreign diplomats who risked their lives and careers to assist Jews who were fleeing Nazi tyranny during the Holocaust,” said Senator Hagerty. “During a time of unimaginable darkness in the world, these diplomats went above their official obligations and beyond the call of duty to save the lives of so many. Current and future generations of diplomats—and everyone else who hears their stories—can look to these men and women of courage and be inspired by their lives of heroism and sacrifice.”
    “These courageous diplomats from nations across the world took initiative and serious risks to save Jews in Nazi-occupied Europe. The Congressional Gold Medal is a small overdue gesture to honor righteous deeds in the most difficult times,” said Senator Kaine. “As living memory of the Holocaust fades with the passing of 80 years, it will soon be up to us to remember humanity’s capacity for evil alongside our capacity for empathy and courage. Senator Hagerty and I aren’t Jewish, but we led this legislation because the duty of remembrance isn’t on the Jewish community alone; it is on all of us.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine, Hagerty Applaud Senate Passage of Legislation to Honor Forgotten Heroes of the Holocaust

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Bill Hagerty (R-TN) applauded Senate passage of their Forgotten Heroes of the Holocaust Congressional Gold Medal Act (S. 91), a bill to honor 60 World War II-era diplomats from the United States and around the world who risked their careers and, in many instances, their lives to save others during the Holocaust. The Hagerty-Kaine legislation would posthumously award a Congressional Gold Medal collectively to these diplomats who took heroic actions to save Jews fleeing Nazi Germany, including issuing passports and travel visas and setting up safehouses and getaways to hide Jews from Nazi authorities. A version of this legislation led by Representatives Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL-27) and Ritchie Torres (D-NY-15) passed the House of Representatives on June 11, 2024.
    “These courageous diplomats from nations across the world took initiative and serious risks to save Jews in Nazi-occupied Europe. The Congressional Gold Medal is a small overdue gesture to honor righteous deeds in the most difficult times,” said Kaine. “As living memory of the Holocaust fades with the passing of 80 years, it will soon be up to us to remember humanity’s capacity for evil alongside our capacity for empathy and courage. Senator Hagerty and I aren’t Jewish, but we led this legislation because the duty of remembrance isn’t on the Jewish community alone; it is on all of us.”
    “As U.S. Senator and former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, I applaud Senate passage of this bipartisan legislation to posthumously honor U.S. and foreign diplomats who risked their lives and careers to assist Jews who were fleeing Nazi tyranny during the Holocaust,” said Hagerty. “During a time of unimaginable darkness in the world, these diplomats went above their official obligations and beyond the call of duty to save the lives of so many. Current and future generations of diplomats—and everyone else who hears their stories—can look to these men and women of courage and be inspired by their lives of heroism and sacrifice.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Joint statement by President Macron and President Biden

    Source: France-Diplomatie – Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Development

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    Published on September 26, 2024

    Lire la version

    It is time for a settlement on the Israel-Lebanon border that ensures safety and security to enable civilians to return to their homes.

    The exchange of fire since October 7th, and in particular over the past two weeks, threatens a much broader conflict, and harm to civilians.

    We therefore have worked together in recent days on a joint call for a temporary ceasefire to give diplomacy a chance to succeed and avoid further escalations across the border.

    The statement we have negotiated is now endorsed by the United States, Australia, Canada, European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and Qatar. We call for broad endorsement and for the immediate support of the Governments of Israel and Lebanon.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Afghanistan: International legal initiative an important step toward tackling the Taliban’s war on women

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Responding to the announcement by Australia, Canada, Germany, and the Netherlands during the UN General Assembly yesterday that they will initiate legal proceedings that could ultimately lead to action at the International Court of Justice against Afghanistan for numerous violations of the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), Amnesty International’s Secretary General Agnès Callamard said:

    “The Taliban have made life for Afghan women and girls intolerable. They have erased them from all spheres of life and systematically stripped away their rights and dignity. Amnesty International welcomes any steps by States to hold the Taliban accountable under international law for the widespread and institutionalized violation of women’s and girls’ human rights, which most likely amount to the crime against humanity of gender persecution. The international community should pursue all available avenues to end ongoing pervasive human rights violations in Afghanistan, including through the International Court of Justice.

    The Taliban have made life for Afghan women and girls intolerable. They have erased them from all spheres of life and systematically stripped away their rights and dignity

    Amnesty International’s Secretary General Agnès Callamard

    “This is a vital step toward securing justice for violations of the UN Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women. It should be complemented by other comprehensive efforts to address the full range of past and ongoing atrocities, including those against women and girls, that the Taliban and other state and non-state actors have committed throughout the continuous cycle of conflict in Afghanistan for over 40 years.

    “The world must act in solidarity with the courageous women and girls of Afghanistan by advocating for their rights and holding the Taliban regime to account. This welcome legal initiative should also serve as a timely reminder that States have a responsibility to provide international protection to all those fleeing systematic discrimination and oppression in Afghanistan.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI: Proactis SA – announcement January 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

        Proactis SA announces results for
    the 18 months period ended 31 January 2024

    Paris – 26thSeptember 2024 – Proactis SA (Euronext: PROAC), a leading provider of comprehensive spend management and business process collaboration solutions, today announced financial information for the year ended 31 January 2024, in accordance with the “European Transparency Obligations Directive” financial disclosure requirements.

    It should be noted at the outset that publication of the results for the year ended January 31, 2024, was originally scheduled for May 31, 2024. Unfortunately, Proactis SA was unable to keep to this timetable, as its statutory auditors were unwilling to issue their reports on the accounts for the period just ended before the completion of the audit of the accounts of Proactis SA’s parent company by the group’s UK auditors.

    Period ended 31 January 2024 – Key Results:

    The Proactis SA Board of Directors approved the accounts for the 18 months period ended 31 January 2024 on 10th September 2024, which have been formally certified by the auditors.  

    € Million   Period ended 31 January 2024 -18 Months   Year ended 31 July 2022 – 12 Months
       
    Revenue   17.9   14.4
       
    EBITDA (*)   2.0   2.8
       
    EBITDA as a % of revenue   11%   19%
    Net Earnings   (16.6)   0.3
       
    Operating Cashflow   3.2   2.3
       
    Cash   0.6   0.9
       
     
    (*) EBITDA: Operating result before depreciation and non-recurring items.    

    Presentation is done on 18 months due to the year-end date change to align with the Proactis Topco Limited Group year-end date change.

    Revenues

    Although the turnover of the Group looks greater due to the change in year-end; it is below the level of the prior period. This is mainly due to the non-renewal of 3rd party solution contracts at the end of contract, or non-renewal of contract in specific non-core product areas. Revenue as presented includes revenue from the Group management fees and split is as follow:

    € Million   Period ended
    31 January 2024    		   Year ended
    31 July 2022
       
             
    Revenue   17.9   14.4
             
    Operating revenue   11.3   9.8
    Management fees   6.6   4.6

    Goodwill Impairment

    Based on the value in use calculations established for the Proactis SA Group, it has been necessary to recognise an impairment. The value in use calculation reflects pipeline conversion delay and the slowdown in volume-related activities during the period under review. The recoverable amount was estimated based on their value in use of €3.3M. An impairment of €3.5M has therefore been recorded.

    Other operating expenses

    Proactis SA Group has recorded a depreciation of 10.9 million euros on the receivables it owns against the current accounts with sister entities. This write-down was recorded at the request of Proactis SA’s statutory auditors. These current accounts result from intra-group transfer pricing billing and are not likely to be repaid in the short term.

    Profitability

    The Company recorded an EBITDA for the period ended 31 January 2024 of €2.0M (€2.8M for the year ended 2022).

    Net Earnings were € (16.6)M versus year ended 31 July 2022: € 0.3M.

    Cashflow

    In the period ended 31 January 2024, the Group‘s operating cash-flow was €3.2M. Capital investment remained strong, at €3.0M, and was focused on the Company’s strategic solution suite; The Business Network. The Group had positive cash balances of €0.6M on 31 January 2024 (31 July 2022: €0.9M).

    * * * *

    About Proactis SA (https://www.proactis.com/proactis-sa), a Proactis Company

    Proactis SA connects companies by providing business spend management and collaborative business process automation solutions for both goods and services, through The Business Network. Our solutions integrate with any ERP or procurement system, providing our customers with an easy-to-use solution which drives adoption, compliance and savings.

    Proactis SA has operations in France, Germany, USA and Manila.

    Listed in Compartment C on the Euronext Paris Eurolist.

    ISIN: FR0004052561, Euronext: PROAC, Reuters: HBWO.LN, Bloomberg: HBW.FP

    Contacts
    Tel: +33 (0)1 53 25 55 00
    E-mail: investorContact@proactis.com

    * * * *

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Successful operation against fraudsters targeting cities and municipalities

    Source: Eurojust

    German and Italian authorities worked together with Eurojust and Europol to stop a fraudulent scheme. The suspects targeted public institutions, cities, and municipalities, and were able to cause damages of several million euros. On 24 September, an operation took place where technology and assets were seized and search warrants against five suspects were executed.

    For over a year, suspects ran a fraudulent scheme in Germany that made them millions. Several public institutions, companies, cities, and municipalities were affected by the scheme. By using phishing techniques, the suspects gained access to real invoices that were addressed to public institutions and companies. The fraudsters manipulated them with their own financial information. The manipulated invoices were then sent to victims, who paid them to the fraudsters instead of their business partners.

    Investigations into the scheme identified five suspects with Italian and German citizenship. As authorities needed to search properties in Germany and Italy, a cross-border case was opened at Eurojust. Coordination through Eurojust defined the strategy of the investigation between the German and Italian authorities. Authorities decided to execute simultaneous searches in the two countries to gather evidence of the fraud and seize assets that were gained through the fraudulent scheme. Europol provided continuous intelligence development to map out the different targets and their criminal activity.

    On 24 September, search warrants against five suspects were executed in Germany and Italy and ten propereties were searched. During the operation, Europol activated a Virtual Command Post to provide support from its headquarters to the investigators on the field as they carried out their enforcement actions. Assets were provisionally secured, and cell phones, computers, and data storage devices were seized. Special Forces will now investigate the seized technology as the investigation continues.

    The following authorities were involved in the actions:

    • Germany: Public Prosecution Office Leipzig – Central Cybercrime Office, Leipzig Criminal Investigation Department – Commissariat 33 (Cybercrime)
    • Italy: Public Prosecutor’s Office Naples; Economic and Financial Police Units of the Guardia di Finanza Naples, Verona, Treviso and Bolzano

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: PROACTIS SA – Press release 26.09.2024 ( publication date AFR)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Publication date of the results and the Annual Financial Report fiscal period ended 31 January 2024

    SURESNES, France – (26 September 2024) — PROACTIS (ISIN code : FR0004052561) announces that, the publication of its results and Annual Financial Report for the year ended January 31, 2024, originally scheduled for May 31, 2024, will take place on September 26, 2024.

    PROACTIS SA’s Annual General Meeting of Shareholders will be held on October 17, 2024, at 1:30 pm.

    PROACTIS SA had obtained authorization from the President of the Nanterre Commercial Court to postpone this meeting until October 31, 2024.

    * * * *

    About Proactis SA (https://www.proactis.com/proactis-sa), a Proactis Company

    Proactis SA connects companies by providing business spend management and collaborative business process automation solutions for both goods and services, through The Business Network. Our solutions integrate with any ERP or procurement system, providing our customers with an easy-to-use solution which drives adoption, compliance and savings.

    Proactis SA has operations in France, Germany, USA and Manila.

    Listed in Compartment C on the Euronext Paris Eurolist.

    ISIN: FR0004052561, Euronext: PROAC, Reuters: HBWO.LN, Bloomberg: HBW.FP

    Contacts
    Tel: +33 (0)1 53 25 55 00
    E-mail: investorContact@proactis.com

    * * * *

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Cegedim: Revenue and EBITDA both increased in the first half of 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

         
     

    PRESS RELEASE

    First-half financial information at June 30, 2024
    IFRS – Regulated information – Audited

    Cegedim: Revenue and EBITDA both increased in the first half of 2024

    • Revenue grew 6.0% as reported and 4.6% LFL to €319.0 million
    • EBITDA rose 6.9% to €52.2 million
    • Recurring operating income(1) (REBIT) fell 3.4% to €10.3 million

    Boulogne-Billancourt, France, September 26, 2024, after the market close

    Cegedim generated consolidated H1 2024 revenues of €319.0 million, a 6.0% year-on-year increase as reported, and EBITDA of €52.2 million, a €3.4 million or 6.9% increase. Recurring operating income fell €0.4 million, or 3.4%, to €10.3 million.

      H1 2024 H1 2023 Change
      in €m (in %) (in €m) (in %) (in €m) in %
    Revenues 319.0 100.0% 301.0 100.00% 18.0 6.0%
    EBITDA(1) 52.2 16.4% 48.8 +16.2% 3.4 6.9%
    Depreciation & amortization -41.9   -38.1   -3.8 -9.8%
    Recurring operating income(1) 10.3 3.2% 10.7 3.6% -0.4 -3.4%
    Other non-recurring operating income and expenses(1) -2.6   -1.4   -1.2 -88.8%
    Operating income 7.7 2.4% 9.3 3.1% -1.6 -17.1%
    Financial result -5.0   -5.6   0.6 10.8%
    Total tax -2.9   -12.4   9.5 76.8%
    Share of net profit (loss) of equity method companies 0.1   -0.5   0.6 110.3%
    Consolidated net profit -0.1 0.0% -9.2 -3.1% 9.1 99.0%
    Non-controlling interests -0.7   -0.4   -0.3 -69.3%
    Group share 0.6 0.2% -8.8 -2.9% 9.4 107.2%
    Recurring earnings per share(2) (in euros) 0.0 – -0.6 –    
    Earnings per share (in euros) 0.0 – -0.6 –    

    Consolidated revenues rose €18.0 million, or 6.0%, to €319.0 million in H1 2024 compared with €301.0 million in 2023. The positive scope effect of €3.7 million, or 1.2%, was attributable to the first-time consolidation in Cegedim’s accounts of Visiodent starting March 1, 2024. The positive currency impact was €0.5 million, or 0.2%, chiefly owing to appreciation of the pound sterling against the euro. In like-for-like terms(2), revenues rose 4.6% in the first half, in line with the Group’s announced outlook. The performance was attributable to seasonality and the non-recurrence of Ségur public health investments in 2024.

    EBITDA(1) rose €3.4 million between the first half of 2023 and 2024, or 6.9%. The improvement is the result of good management of personnel costs and external costs, in moderate growth as a percentage of revenues even though the amount of R&D capitalization fell and the Group had an additional quarter of start-up costs for its biggest BPO contract.

    ————-
    (1)    Alternative performance indicator See pages 112-113 of the 2023 Universal Registration Document.
    (2)   At constant scope and exchange rates.

    Depreciation and amortization expenses rose €3.7 million, chiefly due to a €3.1 million increase in R&D amortization (€22.7 million at June 30, 2024 compared with €19.7 million a year earlier) driven by development efforts in recent years.

    Recurring operating income(1) fell €0.4 million to €10.3 million in H1 2024 compared with €10.7 million in 2023.  It amounted to 3.2% of 2024 revenue compared with 3.6% in 2023. The fine EBITDA performance did not drop through to recurring operating income solely because of higher depreciation and amortization. Excluding the impact of Ségur subsidies and at comparable levels of amortization of capitalized R&D, Recurring operating income would have more than doubled.

    Other non-current operating costs(1) amounted to €2.6 million in H1 2024 compared with €1.4 million in the same period in 2023.  The principal items in 2024 were restructuring costs related to the Group’s decision to refocus software for doctors in the UK on Scotland and fees related to the Visiodent acquisition.

    Taking these elements into account, operating income came to €7.7 million at June 30, 2024, compared with €9.3 million a year earlier.

    Financial result was a loss of €5.0 million compared with a €5.6 million loss in H1 2023. Dividend income over the period more than offset the increase in the cost of financial debt.

    Tax was back to normal levels at €2.6 million in H1 2024 compared with €12.4 million in H1 2023. As a reminder, in 2023 the Group made a non-cash adjustment that caused it to record a deferred tax charge corresponding to the downward revision of its estimated remaining deferred tax assets.

    Analysis of business trends by division

    in millions of euros Total Software & Services Flow Data & Marketing BPO Cloud & Support
    Revenue            
    2023 reported

    2023 reclassified (*)

    		 301.0

    301.0

    		 161.5

    150.6

    		 48.2

    46.8

    		 54.9

    54.9

    		 32.8

    32.8

    		 3.5

    15.8
    2024 319.0 152.1 49.5 59.3 39.9 18.1
    Change 6.0% 1.0% 5.8% 8.0% 21.6% 14.5%
                 
    Recurring operating income            
    2023 reported

    2023 reclassified (*)

    		 10.7

    10.7

    		 -2.0

    -2.5

    		 5.6

    5.2

    		 6.6

    6.6

    		 1.4

    1.4

    		 -0.9

    0.0
    2024 10.3 -1.4 5.9 5.3 1.9 -1.3
    Change -3.4% 42.4% 12.8% -19.8% 36.0% na
                 
    Recurring operating margin (as a % of revenues)

    2023 reported

    		  

    3.6%

    		  

    -1.2%

    		  

    11.7%

    		  

    11.9%

    		  

    4.3%

    		  

    -24.7%
    2023 reclassified (*) 3.6% -1.7% 11.1% 11.9% 4.3% 0.3%
    2024 3.2% -1.0% +11.8% 8.9% 4.8% -7.0%
                 

    (*) As of January 1, 2024, our Cegedim Outsourcing and Audiprint subsidiaries—which were previously housed in the Software & Services division—as well as BSV—formerly of the Flow division—have been moved to the Cloud & Support division in order to capitalize on operating synergies between cloud activities and IT solutions integration.

    • Software & Services: H1 2024 revenues posted a €1.5 million increase, and recurring operating income (REBIT)(1) improved by €1.1 million to a loss of €1.4 million, compared with a €2.5 million loss a year earlier.

    ————-
    (1)    Alternative performance indicator See pages 112-113 of the 2023 Universal Registration Document.

    Software & Services First half Change

    2024 / 2023
    in millions of euros 2024 2023
    Revenues 152.1 150.6 1.5 1.0%
    Cegedim Santé 38.9 39.8 -1.0 -2.4%
    Insurance, HR, Pharmacies, and other services 86.7 84.5 2.3 2.7%
    International businesses 26.5 26.3 0.2 0.6%
    Recurring operating income(1) -1.4 -2.5 1.1 42.4%
    Cegedim Santé -1.6 -1.4 -0.2 -11.8%
    Insurance, HR, Pharmacies, and other services 3.4 3.3 0.1 3.5%
    International businesses -3.3 -4.4 1.1 25.6%

    As expected, Cegedim Santé felt the impact of increased R&D amortization (nearly €1 million) and a demanding comparison owing to the non-recurrence of Ségur public health investments (€4.4 million in H1 2023 revenues). The consolidation of Visiodent starting March 1, 2024, only partly offset those two items. Recurring operating income was nearly stable over the first half, but EBITDA increased as expected.

    The other businesses in the division posted REBIT(1) of €1.2 million. A solid performance by HR solutions, which managed to keep costs under control during a phase of strong growth, compensated for slower pharmacy equipment sales post-Ségur. The international businesses got a boost from dynamic sales for doctors in Spain and for insurers in the UK. As we shift our operations, narrowing the focus of our UK doctor’s software business to Scotland continued to generate costs in the first half.

    • Flow: Revenues rose 5.8%, driven by Cegedim e-business (process digitalization and electronic data flows), both of whose businesses made positive contributions; by Invoicing & Procurement, which rebounded in France and is benefiting from the upcoming reform in Germany; and by Healthcare Flow Management, which has dynamic new offerings for hospitals to make their drug purchasing secure. Over the same period, Third-party payer systems posted 3.6% growth. As a result, REBIT(1) rose 12.8%, with Third-party payer systems making the biggest contribution, as Cegedim e-business recorded a large R&D amortization charge.
    • Data & Marketing: Trends differed at this division—Marketing is still going strong, with 20% growth, whereas Data revenues fell 2.8%, particularly abroad. REBIT(1) of €6.6 million was down €1.3 million over the first half owing to high fixed costs in Data and increased depreciation and amortization costs at C-Media (+€1 million) due to heavy investments in updating its digital signage equipment.
    • BPO: Revenue jumped more than 21% over the first half, buoyed notably by a full six months of the contract with Allianz, which started on April 1, 2023, and is expected to generate losses in the early years. But the division reined in those losses so well that REBIT(1) rose €0.5 million in the first half of 2024 to reach €1.9 million, also getting a boost from the HR BPO and digitalization businesses.
    • Cloud & Support: H1 2024 REBIT(1) was a loss of €1.3 million, compared with breakeven a year earlier. The drop was due to surcharges related to the launch of a new cloud offering and recruitment of new offshore teams.

    ———

    (1) Alternative performance indicator See pages 112-113 of the 2023 Universal Registration Document.

    Highlights

    Apart from the items cited below, to the best of the company’s knowledge, there were no events or changes during H1 2024 that would materially alter the Group’s financial situation.

    • Acquisition of Visiodent

    On February 15, 2024, Cegedim Santé acquired Visiodent, a leading French publisher of management software for dental practices and health clinics. Visiodent launched the market’s first 100% SaaS solution, Veasy, at a time when it was significantly expanding its organization. Its users now include the country’s largest nation-wide networks of health clinics, both cooperative and privately owned, as well as several thousand dental surgeons in private practice. Visiodent generated revenue of c.€10 million in 2023 and began contributing to Cegedim Group’s consolidation scope on March 1, 2024.

    Cegedim S.A. has been subject to two tax audits since 2018, which have resulted in reassessments relating to the use of tax-loss carryforwards contested by the tax authorities. Cegedim, in consultation with its lawyers, believes that the reassessments are unfounded in light of the applicable tax law and jurisprudence. The Company has therefore taken, and continues to take, all possible avenues of contestation.

    As these appeals are not suspensive, Cegedim has paid the amounts reassessed over time (a total of 23 million euros already paid, including 10.9 million euros disbursed in February 2024). The remaining risk of future disbursements in respect of this dispute thus amounts to only 5 million euros at June 30, 2024.

    However, these disbursements have never given rise to the recognition of a tax charge in the P&L, since the Company considers that these sums will be recoverable at the end of the proceedings (they are recognized as advances paid on the assets side of the balance sheet). Should the outcome be unfavorable, a charge of 28 million euros (of which 23 million has already been paid) would have to be recorded in the consolidated income statement.

    In addition, the consolidated balance sheet must show the future tax savings still realizable in respect of tax loss carryforwards. This “deferred tax asset” amounted to 6.9 million euros at June 30, 2024.
    Should the outcome be unfavorable, the probability of realizing these future savings would become nil, and an adjustment of 6.9 million euros would have to be recorded in the consolidated income statement (with no cash impact, since these gains have never yet been realized).

    Consequently, the risk associated with this dispute is not (or very little) in terms of cash, but rather in terms of a possible adjustment to the consolidated income. The maximum P&L adjustment risk is known: it amounts to 34.9 million euros and will remain unchanged. Only its breakdown varies at each closing: the amount of disputed tax savings (28 million to date) will continue to increase, and that of remaining future savings (6.9 million to date) will decrease accordingly until exhausted.

    In the last quarter of 2023, the Company referred this dispute to the administrative court, which is likely to continue for several years.

    Significant transactions and events post June 30, 2024

    Apart from the items cited below, to the best of the company’s knowledge, there were no post-closing events or changes after June 30, 2024, that would materially alter the Group’s financial situation.

    • New financing arrangement

    On July 31, 2024, Cegedim announced that it had secured a new financing arrangement consisting of a €230 million syndicated loan. The arrangement is split into €180 million of lines drawn upon closing to refinance the Group’s existing debt (RCF and Euro PP, which were to mature in October 2024 and October 2025 respectively) and an additional, undrawn revolving credit facility (RCF) of €50 million. This new financing arrangement will bolster the Group’s liquidity and extend the maturity of its debt to, respectively, 5 years (€30 million, payments every six months); 6 years (€60 million, repayable upon maturity); and 7 years (€90 million, repayable upon maturity).

    Outlook

    Based on the currently available information, the Group expects 2024 like-for-like(2) revenue growth to be in the range of 5-8% relative to 2023. Recurring operating income should continue to improve, following a similar trajectory as in 2023.  

    Recurring operating income(1) is expected to grow, notably thanks to the initial returns on investments made in Cegedim Santé and refocusing international activities.

    These targets may need to be revised in the event of unexpected developments (pandemic, etc.) and/or a significant worsening of geopolitical and macroeconomic risks. The Group reiterates that it has no activities or exposed assets in Russia or Ukraine.

    —————

    The Audit Committee met on September 25, 2024. The Board of Directors, chaired by Jean-Claude Labrune, met on September 26, 2024, and approved the consolidated financial statements at June 30, 2024, of which the statutory auditors have conducted a limited review. The Interim Financial Report will be available in a few days’ time, in French and in English, on our website.

    2024 financial calendar

    2024 October 24 after the close Q3 2024 revenues

    Financial calendar: https://www.cegedim.fr/finance/agenda/Pages/default.aspx

    Disclaimer
    This press release is available in French and in English. In the event of any difference between the two versions, the original French version takes precedence. This press release may contain inside information. It was sent to Cegedim’s authorized distributor on September 26, 2024, no earlier than 5:45 pm Paris time.
    The figures cited in this press release include guidance on Cegedim’s future financial performance targets. This forward-looking information is based on the opinions and assumptions of the Group’s senior management at the time this press release is issued and naturally entails risks and uncertainty. For more information on the risks facing Cegedim, please refer to Chapter 7, “Risk management”, section 7.2, “Risk factors and insurance”, and Chapter 3, “Overview of the financial year”, section 3.6, “Outlook”, of the 2023 Universal Registration Document filled with the AMF on April 3, 2024, under number D.24-0233.

    About Cegedim:
    Founded in 1969, Cegedim is an innovative technology and services group in the field of digital data flow management for healthcare ecosystems and B2B, and a business software publisher for healthcare and insurance professionals. Cegedim employs more than 6,500 people in more than 10 countries and generated revenue of €616 million in 2023.

    Cegedim SA is listed in Paris (EURONEXT: CGM).
    To learn more please visit: http://www.cegedim.fr
    And follow Cegedim on X: @CegedimGroup, LinkedIn, and Facebook.

    Aude Balleydier
    Cegedim
    Media Relations
    and Communications Manager

    Tel.: +33 (0)1 49 09 68 81
    aude.balleydier@cegedim.fr

    		 Damien Buffet
    Cegedim
    Head of Financial Communication

    Tel.: +33 (0)7 64 63 55 73
    damien.buffet@cegedim.com

    		 Céline Pardo
    Becoming RP Agency
    Media Relations Consultant

    Tel.:        +33 (0)6 52 08 13 66
    cegedim@becoming-group.com

    		  

    ———

    (1) Alternative performance indicator See pages 112-113 of the 2023 Universal Registration Document.
    (2) At constant scope and exchange rates.

    Annexes

    Consolidated financial statements at June 30, 2024

    • Assets au 30 juin 2024
    In thousands of euros 6/30/2024 12/31/2023
    Goodwill 234,955 199,787
    Development costs 29,706 1,562
    Other intangible fixed assets 177,834 192,616
    Intangible non-current assets 207,541 194,178
    Land 594 544
    Buildings 1,556 1,660
    Other property, plant, and equipment 53,006 45,829
    Advances and non-current assets in progress 901 831
    Rights of use 86,092 89,718
    Tangible fixed assets 142,149 138,582
    Equity investments 0 0
    Loans 16,332 15,332
    Other long-term investments 7,120 5,230
    Long-term investments – excluding equity shares in equity method companies 23,452 20,563
    Equity shares in equity method companies 19,086 22,065
    Deferred tax assets 18,209 19,747
    Prepaid expenses: long-term portion 0 0
    Non-current assets 645,390 594,922
    Goods 6,072 5,498
    Advances and deposits received on orders 1,396 3,703
    Accounts receivables: short-term portion 182,907 175,199
    Other receivables: short-term portion 59,070 59,563
    Current tax credits 27,262 16,495
    Cash equivalents 0 0
    Cash 35,414 46,606
    Prepaid expenses: short-term portion 26,138 22,082
    Current assets 338,260 329,146
    Total assets 983,651 924,068
    • Liabilities et shareholders’ equity at June 30, 2024
    In thousands of euros 6/30/2024 12/31/2023
    Share capital 13,432 13,337
    Consolidated retained earnings 276,449 282,521
    Group exchange gains/losses -11,848 -12,275
    Group earnings 630 -7,407
    Shareholders’ equity, Group share 278,663 276,175
    Minority interest 17,550 18,381
    Shareholders’ equity 296,213 294,556
    Non-current financial liabilities 187,714 188,546
    Non-current lease liabilities 76,267 78,761
    Deferred tax liabilities 5,949 5,600
    Post-employment benefit obligations 30,632 31,007
    Non-current provisions 2,147 2,521
    Non-current liabilities 302,710 306,435
    Current financial liabilities 61,570 3,006
    Current lease liabilities 14,661 14,789
    Trade payables and related accounts 57,225 61,734
    Current tax liabilities 192 235
    Tax and social security liabilities 113,884 121,371
    Non-current provisions 1,660 1,730
    Other current liabilities 135,538 120,212
    Current liabilities 384,728 323,077
    Total liabilities 983,651 924,068
    • Income statement at June 30, 2024
    In thousands of euros 6/30/2024 6/30/2023
    Revenues 318,995 301,011
    Purchases used -14,045 -14,739
    External expenses -72,687 -66,371
    Taxes -3,961 -4,291
    Payroll costs -173,240 -163,623
    Impairment of trade receivables and other receivables and on contract assets -872 -2,041
    Allowances to and reversals of provisions -2,440 -1,830
    Other operating expenses -690 108
    Share of profit (loss) from affiliates on the income statement 1,146 603
    EBITDA (1) 52,207 48,827
    Depreciation expenses other than right-of-use assets -33,140 -29,030
    Depreciation expenses of right-of-use assets -8,733 -9,097
    Recurring operating income(1) 10,334 10,700
    Non-recurring operating income and expenses -2,616 -1,385
    Other non-recurring operating income and expenses(1) -2,616 -1,385
    Operating income 7,718 9,315
    Income from cash and cash equivalents 326 180
    Cost of gross financial debt -7,121 -5,633
    Other financial income and expenses 1,813 -136
    Net financial income (expense) -4,983 -5,589
    Income taxes -1,226 -1,841
    Deferred income taxes -1,652 -10,588
    Tax -2,878 -12,429
    Share of profit (loss) from affiliates 53 -515
    Consolidated net profit -90 -9,219
    Group share 630 -8,793
    Income from equity-accounted affiliates -721 -426
    Average number of shares excluding treasury stock 13,695,317 13,658,348
    Recurring earnings per share (in euros) 0.0 -0.6
    Earnings per share (in euros) 0.0 -0.6
    • Cash flow statement as of June 30, 2024
    In thousands of euros 6/30/2024 6/30/2023
    Consolidated net profit -90 -9,219
    Share of profit (loss) from affiliates -1,199 -88
    Depreciation and amortization expenses and provisions 40,531 37,972
    Capital gains or losses on disposals of operating assets -52 -798
    Cash flow after cost of net financial debt and taxes 39,190 27,867
    Cost of net financial debt 4,983 5,589
    Tax expenses 2,878 12,429
    Cash flow from operating activities before tax and interest 47,051 45,885
    Tax paid -11,634 -378
    Impact of change in working capital requirements -13,206 -18,032
    Cash flow generated from operating activities after tax paid and change in

    working capital requirements

    		 22,211 27,476
    Acquisitions of intangible fixed assets -29,879 -29,550
    Acquisitions of tangible fixed assets -15,935 -11,759
    Acquisitions of long-term investments 0 -36
    Disposals of property, plant, and equipment and of intangible assets 553 2,575
    Disposals of long-term investments 934 805
    Change in deposits received or paid -860 -156
    Impact of changes in consolidation scope -35,454 -2,172
    Dividends received from outside the Group 4,073 30
    Net cash from (used in) investing activities -76,568 -40,264
    Capital increase 985 –
    Dividends paid to minority shareholders of consolidated cos. 0 –
    Dividends paid to shareholders of the parent company -1 –
    Debt issuance 55,000 –
    Debt repayments -219 -193
    Employee profit sharing 145 129
    Repayment of lease liabilities -8,152 -11,353
    Interest paid on loans -972 -117
    Other financial income received 718 596
    Other financial expenses paid -3,612 -3,492
    Net cash flow used in financing activities 43,892 -14,430
    Change in net cash excluding currency impact -10,465 -27,218
    Impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates -728 -456
    Change in net cash -11,194 -27,674
    Opening cash 46,606 55,553
    Closing cash 35,412 27,879
    • Financial covenants

    The Group complied with all its covenants as of June 30, 2024.

    (1) Alternative performance indicator

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Situation between Lebanon and Israel: joint statement, 26 September 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Joint statement by Australia, Canada, the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, the UK, USA, and Qatar.

    Joint statement:

    The situation between Lebanon and Israel since 8 October 2023 is intolerable and presents an unacceptable risk of a broader regional escalation. This is in nobody’s interest, neither of the people of Israel nor of the people of Lebanon.  

    It is time to conclude a diplomatic settlement that enables civilians on both sides of the border to return to their homes in safety.

    Diplomacy however cannot succeed amid an escalation of this conflict.  

    Thus we call for an immediate 21 day ceasefire across the Lebanon-Israel border to provide space for diplomacy towards the conclusion of a diplomatic settlement consistent with UNSCR 1701, and the implementation of UNSCR 2735 regarding a ceasefire in Gaza

    We call on all parties, including the Governments of Israel and Lebanon, to endorse the temporary ceasefire immediately consistent with UNSCR 1701 during this period, and to give a real chance to a diplomatic settlement.  

    We are then prepared to fully support all diplomatic efforts to conclude an agreement between Lebanon and Israel within this period, building on efforts over the last months, that ends this crisis altogether.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Joint Statement From the Combined Space Operations Initiative

    Source: United States Department of Defense

    This year, the Combined Space Operations (CSpO) Initiative celebrated ten years of working together to lead as responsible space actors.

    The CSpO Initiative generates and improves cooperation and coordination of national security space activities. It has grown to ten partners: Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, United Kingdom, and the United States of America.

    Space is integral to our shared prosperity and security. Space systems and services require assured access to, and freedom to operate in space.

    However, the security and stability of space are at risk. We are committed to ensuring the lawful and sustainable use of space, and the prevention of conflict.

    Throughout the years, we have pursued collaborative efforts to meet rapidly evolving challenges and opportunities, and to deliver resilient, agile, secure, and interoperable capabilities.

    The United States of America, as a CSpO Initiative partner, looks forward to continued cooperation to demonstrate responsible behaviors and the promotion of a secure, stable, and safe space domain.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: High-level Open Debate: “Leadership for peace: United in respect of the UN Charter in search of a secure future” Address by Jean-Noël Barrot Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs at the Security Council (25.09.24

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

    President,

    I would like to thank Slovenia for organizing this open debate, and the UN Secretary-General, ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric Egger, and President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf for their remarks.

    Our Council had to meet at a time when the world was being struck and divided by major conflicts of an exceptional gravity. And unfortunately, these conflicts are growing in number. It is the responsibility of our Council to resolve them and it needs to do more.

    Our first responsibility is to enforce the rules that govern the international order and to enforce the Charter of the United Nations.

    This means condemning without hesitation Russia’s war of aggression on Ukraine, its neighbour. As I said yesterday: the Ukrainian people have been subjected to atrocities, war crimes, and indiscriminate bombardments on civilian targets on a daily basis for over 900 days. They are unjustly living in fear and suffering.

    This means condemning all violations committed by Russia. This means demanding that Russia end its war of aggression on Ukraine immediately and withdraw its troops from Ukrainian territory. The General Assembly made this demand seven times in no uncertain terms.

    We have a responsibility to support Ukraine in its right to self-defence. France and its partners will continue to support Ukrainians as long as it takes in its efforts to stop Russia’s aggression and to find a just peace. And a just peace can only be based on compliance with our common Charter. It is at the core of President Zelenskyy’s peace plan that we support.

    We have a responsibility to uphold the fundamental principles of the Charter of the United Nations in the face of an unequivocally illegal and unjustifiable war of aggression. Of this I am certain: these principles are dear to all of us, particularly the sovereignty and territorial integrity of States. Without these principles, it is the strong who make the law and not the law that governs the strong. Without these principles, borders would no longer be intangible. Without these principles, States would no longer have security and everyone would fear an invasion by their neighbour. We must uphold these principles and enforce them. You all understand that compliance with international law is our compass everywhere.

    We have clearly said since the barbaric terrorist attacks committed by Hamas and other terrorist groups on 7 October, which we condemn in the strongest terms, that Israel has the right to defend itself against aggression and the duty to do so in compliance with international law, particularly international humanitarian law. Everyone must respect this law, including Israel.

    The war in Gaza must stop now. For civilians, for the men and women of Gaza whose suffering must end; for the hostages who must finally be released, and for stability in the region, which is currently deeply shaken.

    The situation is untenable. The number of civilian victims is intolerable. In the face of this humanitarian disaster, it is vital to establish an immediate and permanent ceasefire and to enable the massive unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid as a matter of urgency. The civilian population’s needs are huge.

    To ensure a lasting end to the crisis in the Middle East, it is vital to reach a political settlement of the conflict between Israel and Palestine as a matter of urgency. This settlement is a two-state solution. You can count on France to continue to take the helm, with its partners, in promoting a critical and irreversible revitalization of peace efforts.

    It is also vital to now begin building the future of Gaza, the “day after”. It is up to the Palestinian Authority, which we support, to exercise its full authority over Gaza. For this to become a reality, the United Nations has and will have a central role to play.

    President,

    These vital demands must not be paid lip service but met with action. And I will say it again: our collective responsibility is to ensure this happens. That is why France will continue to work within this Council to sketch out this path.

    I asked that a meeting be held this evening on Lebanon, as hundreds of Lebanese people, including children, have lost their lives in Israel’s strikes. At a time when this Council must call for de-escalation to avoid regional conflagration with devasting outcomes. Our Council must call for reason, which requires restraint and a ceasefire, something that it has been doing for a long time.

    President,

    No war, no humanitarian tragedy should be forgotten.

    In Sudan, more than half the population is suffering from acute food insecurity. Famine has taken hold in the Zamzun camp in North Darfur. The situation is tragic. And we must remain mobilized. To raise awareness of the international community and to work together to address this tragic situation in Sudan, we held a conference in Paris where we raised more than €2 billion, €900 million of which from the European Union and its Member States, to support civilian populations in Sudan and its neighbouring countries. Many of our States signed a declaration of principles calling for Parties in the conflict to cease their hostilities, abide by their commitments and deliver on their obligations with respect to international humanitarian law and human rights. We have called on all States to refrain from any committing any acts that would fuel the conflict. I reiterate this appeal here today.

    Many diplomatic efforts have been made in recent months to end the crisis. These initiatives have produced humanitarian advances, such as the issuance of visas for humanitarian workers and the re-opening of the Adre border post. These advances are encouraging but are still not enough given the urgency of the situation. Together, we must do more.

    President,

    As members of this Council, and more broadly as members of the United Nations, we must work to ensure the Security Council is capable of fully exercising its prime responsibility in upholding international peace and security.

    That is the reason for France’s clear, long-standing and constant support for a comprehensive reform of the Security Council, based on the belief that expansion of both membership categories is required.

    We have been tirelessly advocating greater representation of Africa on the Security Council for 20 years, including among the permanent members. That is a key aspect of the G4 model, which we support, just as we support the aspirations of Brazil, Germany, India and Japan to gain permanent membership.

    In this same spirit of responsibility, France and Mexico promote an initiative that requires no amendment of the Charter. It is a commitment, an essential one, not to use a veto in the event of mass atrocities. That is a major expectation of the UN’s Member States. We owe it to them to progress on this matter.

    President,

    The principle of humanity must prevail. This year, we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the 1949 Geneva Conventions, and I would like to recall that they are universal and apply in all circumstances in the event of armed conflict.

    We need to ensure they are enforced. We will reiterate this at high level, with the ICRC which is their guarantor. We need to enforce international humanitarian law. Because respect for these rules saves lives: the lives of women, children and men who suffer in war; the lives of the humanitarian personnel who try to save them, and whose immense courage I salute; and the lives of those, too, who will otherwise live with a terrible injury in their memory.

    There is only one standard: the law, made up of our Charter and our Conventions, which put humanity first.

    You can count on France to enforce this standard.

    Our Council, too, must enforce it in all circumstances.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI China: CRRC unveils green hydrogen train tech at Berlin fair

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    People visit the booth of CRRC during the 2024 International Trade Fair for Transport Technology (InnoTrans 2024) in Berlin, Germany, Sept. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China debuted its first hydrogen-powered intelligent intercity train, CINOVA H2, at InnoTrans 2024, a leading international trade fair for transport technology, held in Berlin on Tuesday.

    Developed by CRRC Qingdao Sifang Co Ltd, a Shandong province-based subsidiary of China Railway Rolling Stock Corp, the groundbreaking train runs on hydrogen power, achieving zero carbon emissions throughout its journey. It offers faster speeds, higher passenger capacity and an extended range, providing a new green solution for nonelectrified railway passenger transport.

    Hydrogen energy, widely considered one of the most promising clean energies of the 21st century, is a key focus in the green transformation of railway technology.

    Liang Caiguo, a senior designer at CRRC Qingdao Sifang, said CINOVA H2 uses hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity via an electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. The four-car train is equipped with high-power fuel cells capable of producing up to 960 kilowatts, enabling sustained speeds of 160 kilometers per hour and a top speed of 200 km/h.

    “The train boasts an ultra-long range of 1,200 kilometers at a cruising speed of 160 km/h, with full refueling taking just 15 minutes,” said Liang, adding that with its lightweight design and integrated saloon, CINOVA H2 can carry over 1,000 passengers, adding to its appeal as a high-capacity, eco-friendly transport solution.

    As a pioneering piece of green rail technology, CINOVA H2 is an “environmental champion”. Liang said that the hydrogen fuel cells produce only water as a byproduct, resulting in zero carbon emissions and no air pollutants throughout the entire journey.

    CRRC Qingdao Sifang estimates that each train, if operating 300,000 km annually, can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 730 metric tons per year, equivalent to 37.8 hectares of forests.

    Moreover, the new train employs innovative recycling technology to turn wastewater and waste heat into resources.

    Liang said that the water emitted from the hydrogen fuel cell reaction is purified and recycled to meet the onboard water needs for passenger services, thus effectively saving water. The waste heat from the cooling of the hydrogen fuel cells is recycled for heating during the winter, making it even greener and more environmentally friendly.

    CRRC Qingdao Sifang said the train’s energy consumption is very low, consuming less than 0.3 grams of hydrogen per passenger kilometer at a speed of 160 km/h when fully loaded.

    Not only is it environmentally friendly, but it is also highly intelligent. The train is equipped with an advanced Smart Care integrated intelligent operation and maintenance platform that enables intelligent fault diagnostics and maintenance decision-making functionality, enhancing operational reliability and reducing vehicle maintenance costs, said the company.

    It said passengers can enjoy advanced intelligent amenities such as hearing assistance systems, variable transmittance curtains, smart interactive windows, digital interactive screens and onboard Wi-Fi to create a more high-tech and intelligent travel experience.

    The hydrogen system of the train has undergone stringent safety tests in various scenarios and working conditions, with multiple safety protection systems, including intelligent detection and isolation protection, thus ensuring safety.

    Wang Xueliang, deputy director of the technology center of CRRC Qingdao Sifang, said: “CINOVA H2 can be used in nonelectrified railway areas, replacing traditional diesel-powered alternatives. It effectively reduces carbon dioxide and other air pollutant emissions, showcasing significant environmental benefits, and will strongly promote a new green upgrade for passenger transport equipment on nonelectrified railways.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: US chipmaking drive at risk with Intel’s mounting financial woes

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Intel, once the biggest chipmaker in the United States by revenue, is facing mounting financial troubles that threaten to derail the U.S. government’s ambitious strategy to revitalize domestic chip manufacturing.

    Intel shares have taken a hard hit in recent months after the company reported a staggering net loss of 1.61 billion U.S. dollars in the second quarter and announced cutting about 15,000 jobs to save costs. This is viewed as an especially troubling sign when the company is expected to bolster the U.S. semiconductor workforce.

    Intel’s stock has plummeted by about a third since the release of its latest earnings report in August and nearly two-thirds this year.

    This fall has pushed Intel’s market value below 100 billion dollars for the first time in three decades, as the company struggled to compete with artificial intelligence (AI) chip designers while missing the growth opportunities from the AI-driven boom.

    Intel was reportedly considering a range of options to cut costs, including separating or selling its foundry business or building chips based on designs from other companies.

    The U.S. government bet big on Intel to boost domestic chip manufacturing. The company’s foundry business was viewed as crucial to achieving that goal.

    In a show of support, the U.S. Commerce Department announced in March that it would award Intel a nearly 20-billion-dollar incentive package, including 8.5 billion dollars in grants and 11 billion dollars in loans. This represents the largest award under the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022.

    The CHIPS Act, which allocated 39 billion dollars in grants to incentivize chip companies to build factories in the United States, aimed to reverse the decades-long shift of semiconductor production to Asia.

    According to the Commerce Department’s announcement in March, the government’s incentive was designed to support Intel’s efforts to produce cutting-edge semiconductors at large-scale plants in Arizona and Ohio. The money was also reported to help pay for research and development and advanced packaging projects at facilities in Oregon and New Mexico.

    Intel is currently constructing four chip factories in the United States, with two facilities each in Ohio and Arizona. The two factories in Licking County, Ohio, are part of a 20-billion-dollar project that could eventually accommodate up to eight factories and are expected to be completed in 2025.

    In Arizona, Intel is investing over 32 billion dollars to build two new leading-edge chip factories and modernize an existing facility at its Ocotillo campus, according to the company.

    Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger said earlier that building chip factories in the United States is economically uncompetitive compared with Asia, and he expected the government’s incentives to help redress that imbalance.

    However, despite these ambitious plans and the promise of government support, Intel has yet to receive any funds from the announced incentive package. Growing questions surround the timeline for Intel to access the nearly 20 billion dollars in CHIPS Act incentives, which are contingent on the company meeting specific milestones and requirements.

    According to a Bloomberg report this month, the Department of Commerce declined Intel’s request for funds, instead insisting that the company meet key milestones and conduct significant due diligence before it would consider releasing the money.

    The implications of Intel’s financial woes extended beyond U.S. borders. The company paused plans for new chip factories in Germany and Poland and delayed the opening of a new chip packaging plant in Malaysia following its dismal second-quarter financial results.

    Media reports suggest that Qualcomm had approached Intel to acquire parts of its business, though both companies declined to comment on the deal. Industry analysts, however, remained skeptical about the potential for such a deal to address the challenges facing U.S. chip manufacturing.

    Qualcomm, having never operated a chip factory before, may not be interested in buying Intel’s loss-making chip manufacturing unit, as it would be challenging to turn around or sell the unit, according to a Monday report by Reuters, citing industry analysts.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: Teledyne introduces next generation AI-powered smart camera for industrial automation and inspection

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Teledyne DALSA, a Teledyne Technologies [NYSE:TDY] company and global leader in machine vision technology, is pleased to announce its next generation AI-powered BOA™3 smart camera for industrial automation and inspection.

    The new BOA3 smart camera is designed to leverage the best features from previous BOA generations and combine them with new sensor and AI (Artificial Intelligence) inspection technologies developed by Teledyne. BOA3 is a highly integrated vision system in a compact, rugged smart camera format designed to meet the needs of the most complex, demanding machine vision applications.

    “The new BOA3 is an exciting next step in our smart camera development,” said Szymon Chawarski, Product Line Manager, Vision Systems. “Its modular and flexible architecture will allow us to offer new and powerful solutions for embedded machine vision inspections.”

    BOA3 offers sensor resolutions from 1.2 to 12MP, integrated or C-mount lens options, onboard I/O, and includes easy-to-use machine vision software, all in one common platform. BOA3 smart cameras deliver the flexibility and uncompromised functionality to enable quick, cost-effective embedded machine vision deployments.

    BOA3 comes with iNspect™, an easy-to-use, no-code inspection development software with tools for positioning, part locating, pattern matching, measuring, barcode reading, feature or defect detection, including automatic reading of characters (OCR) based on a pre-trained AI inference network. Combine the broad range of traditional vision tools with powerful AI Classification or Object Detection models created in Astrocyte™, Teledyne DALSA’s GUI-based AI Trainer software.

    Camera Details and Availability

    BOA3 models with 1.2, 5MP, and 12MP monochrome sensors are available immediately. Color versions are planned for release at the end of 2024. New sensor and lens options will be added to the platform in 2025.

    Find out more about BOA3 smart cameras at VISION in Stuttgart, Germany from October 8-10 at Teledyne booth 8 B10. Please visit the BOA3 product page for more information. For sales enquiries, visit our contact page.

    Teledyne DALSA is part of the Teledyne Vision Solutions group and a leader in the design, manufacture, and deployment of digital imaging components for machine vision. Teledyne DALSA image sensors, cameras, smart cameras, frame grabbers, software, and vision solutions are used in thousands of automated inspection systems around the world and across multiple industries. For more information, visit http://www.teledynedalsa.com/imaging.

    Media Contact
    Brooks Riendeau
    brooks.riendeau@teledyne.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/06fd6d5a-7e0f-48e2-ae35-cdf77c31b8a2

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The United States and Partners Mobilize $517 Million to Support Democratic Openings Around the World

    Source: USAID

    Today, USAID Administrator Samantha Power, in partnership with the Ford Foundation, convened bilateral partners, democratic reformist government leaders, philanthropic partners, and civil society to collectively announce over $517 million to support countries experiencing democratic openings globally.

    On the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, the U.S. government deepened its commitment to supporting democratic “bright spots” by working with Congress to announce over $73 million towards USAID’s Democracy Delivers Initiative. Administrator Power also announced that Guatemala will join the Initiative, following Fiji’s entry in June, as both countries experience historic windows of democratic opportunity. With this announcement, the Democracy Delivers Initiative now supports Armenia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Fiji, Guatemala, Malawi, Maldives, Moldova, Nepal, Tanzania, and Zambia. Leaders from these countries joined the event to highlight their countries’ democratic progress and to welcome new investments and collaborations furthering democratic resilience.

    As part of the U.S. commitment, the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) announced over $348 million in newly committed transactions in Moldova, Tanzania, and Zambia, bringing their total investment to over $2.38 billion for projects in Democracy Delivers countries since 2022. The Inter-American Foundation also announced $3.3 million in new investments in the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, and Guatemala.

    Administrator Power announced that like-minded partners – including Australia, Canada, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Ireland, New Zealand, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom – jointly committed to supporting democratic openings throughout their development and diplomatic agendas and to bolstering information resilience. 

    Expanding the Democracy Delivers Commitment to Action launched at UNGA in 2023, philanthropic partners announced new commitments totaling up to $92.4 million to support Democracy Delivers countries and objectives. As an anchor partner and host for the 2024 event, Ford Foundation announced $8 million to support democratic opportunity, including in Guatemala. The following foundations also made commitments: The Rockefeller Foundation, Chandler Foundation, Focus Central America, Hilton Foundation, Luis von Ahn Foundation, Rockefeller Brothers Fund, Skoll Foundation, Tinker Foundation, Vodafone Foundation, and WINGS.

    Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Administrator Power launched the Democracy Delivers Initiative in 2022 to bring together a multi-stakeholder coalition of partners and surge resources to countries undergoing moments of democratic renewal to help deliver tangible, lasting progress for citizens. By prioritizing responsiveness to citizen needs and enhancing transparency and accountability, these commitments will strengthen government reform efforts and facilitate improvements to public services. 

    Continuing the momentum of the Summit for Democracy process and building upon previous Democracy Delivers events, the gathering underscored the United States’ continued commitment to convening the world’s democracies in order to galvanize sustained collective action and ensure that democracy delivers opportunity and dignity for all.

    We encourage all organizations to join us.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Administrator Samantha Power at the Democracy Delivers Event

    Source: USAID

    ADMINISTRATOR SAMANTHA POWER: Thank you. It is wonderful to be here with so many friends and co-conspirators and people who stand for dignity and democracy every day. I feel incredibly privileged, honestly, to be a part of this initiative. 

    I could have no better partner in Darren Walker, our incomparable anchor partner in the Democracy Delivers Initiative – the co-host for the second year in a row. Some of you know that Darren will be departing from his leadership role at Ford [Foundation]. None of us can imagine the thought of him not performing this role. He is such a giant in supporting civil society, in supporting human dignity, individual dignity around the world. But, we were thrilled, Darren, to think of what you will do next and the difference you will make in whatever walk of life you pursue. You are a walking catalyst for change, and we feel incredibly grateful to you and to the Ford Foundation for all that you do everyday. So, thank you. 

    Thanks to everybody here who’s joining, as well as all of those online. This is a club that we wish more people wanted to be a member of – a gathering of nations who are pursuing really tough political reforms and who are doing so in the face of even tougher economic headwinds often.

    Two years ago, we first brought this group together amidst a wave of very familiar pessimism, talk of authoritarians emboldened, and democracies under attack. And, honestly, in looking back, too often this pessimism over recent years has overshadowed the bright spots of democratic progress springing up in many places around the world. And, they will always spring up because citizens will never relent when their dignity is denied and when they lack agency over their futures. So, we have seen it: citizens standing up, demanding change, and electing leaders who they were trusting to deliver on that promise. 

    Of course, if we did not focus on these movements – as I think traditionally, we really had not sufficiently – we weren’t focusing on them as movements and as reform engines. Then, it was also very unlikely we were going to focus our support on them in an intentional way. And, that, as we have seen, is a critical mistake. Because often democratic reformers come into office facing really, really significant challenges: entrenched corruption, weak institutions, often debt burdens that prevent them from making the investments that their people need and that their people expect. For reformers to have a fighting chance of delivering on the change that their people demand, they need allies. And, that is fundamentally what this network is about. 

    So, Secretary [Antony] Blinken and I, on behalf of President [Joe] Biden, launched the Democracy Delivers Initiative to help provide the support these reformers need. Secretary Blinken today, unfortunately, just got pulled into an urgent obligation with President Biden and is sorry to be missing us today. But, he – and we – take note of the fact that since 2022, in the short time this Democracy Delivers Initiative has been underway, USAID alone has increased our funding for the original cohort of nine Democracy Delivers countries by over $300 million. That is an increase of over 38 percent.

    At the same time, we knew all along that the true power of this initiative would be bringing others on board to surge support to these democratic bright spots as well. Because the beauty of democratic progress is that it creates opportunity for all. So, at this event, back in 2022, we rallied companies to invest in countries experiencing democratic openings, knowing that improvements in the rule of law, increased transparency, and unleashed innovation make democracies ideal places for private investment.  

    At this event, then a year later and a year ago, in 2023, we rallied philanthropies, many represented here today, to focus their giving, their investments in these places as well, knowing that democratic openings create opportunities to drive change that endures – in partnership with leaders who are not standing in the way of progress they see as somehow threatening, but instead championing and seeking to scale good ideas. 

    This year, the third of these meetings, we are pleased to be joined by other bilateral government partners who, like us, see the opportunity that democratic openings create and are committed to supporting them in their own foreign policy and in their own assistance. I am pleased to announce that today we are releasing a joint statement endorsed by 12 countries so far: Australia, Estonia, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Finland, New Zealand, Sweden, Switzerland, Spain, and the United Kingdom. Most of these partners are here with us today, committing all of us in this statement to elevating attention to democratic renewal around the world, and committing to look at the ways in which they can increase support across sectors as we work together to make these openings not just moments but movements. 

    This approach is particularly important now as we continue to see new, promising democratic bright spots emerge. 

    And so, just this past June, we welcomed Fiji to the Democracy Delivers Initiative, following on the heels of the first peaceful transfer of power in Fiji’s history which occurred nearly two years ago. And, today, I’m thrilled as well now to announce that Guatemala will be the newest country joining the cohort. 

    Earlier this year, I traveled to Guatemala for the inauguration of President [Bernardo] Arévalo who’s joining us here today. The anti-democratic forces who had been working for months to prevent the president-elect from taking power tried every procedural maneuver that they could to deny the will of the Guatemalan people, delaying the inauguration for nearly ten hours – was it ten hours? But who was counting? And casting into doubt – genuinely casting into doubt – the peaceful transfer of power. But, the people of Guatemala insisted that their will be respected, and they prevailed. After midnight, technically, the day after the inauguration was supposed to occur, President Arévalo finally took the oath of office to an electric crowd chanting, “sí se pudo” – yes, we did.

    Now, as president Arévalo attempts to overcome those same undemocratic forces to deliver on the change that he promised, many of our partners are already surging support. Just to name a few – and you’ll get to hear from others later on – the Inter-American Foundation is helping Guatemala invest in providing the economic opportunities and security that citizens need to build their futures at home. The Tinker Foundation is investing in Guatemala’s education system. The Rockefeller Brothers Fund and Focus Central America are each investing in Guatemalan civil society organizations advancing democracy and justice. 

    Today, we are going to hear from President Arévalo and other leaders who are taking on extraordinary odds to deliver change for their people. And, we are going to hear commitments that partners around the world are making to support this progress. We have many partners with us. So, to make sure we stay on time and can hear from everyone, our timekeeper, Jacob, will help us stay on track – including helping me stay on track. 

    And, to kick us off, I am pleased to announce that USAID will commit an additional $73 million to support democratic development in Democracy Delivers partner countries. This is on top of our programming that we are doing across sectors that many of you are familiar with. But, this new funding is going to support priorities like energy security in Armenia; job growth in Guatemala and Tanzania; public service delivery in Ecuador, Malawi, and Zambia; and democratic governance and anti-corruption efforts in the Dominican Republic, the Maldives, Moldova, and Nepal. And, in recent months, we’ve announced nearly $6 million to support inclusive democratic systems, sustainable local food production, and climate adaptation in Fiji.

    And now, I would like to introduce the President of Fiji, President [Wiliame] Katonivere. Last year, I had the chance, sir, to visit Fiji and to officially establish USAID’s Mission there on the ground. Next week, USAID Deputy Administrator Isabel Coleman, will be leading an interagency delegation to Fiji and other Pacific Islands to continue strengthening our collaboration.

    Let me officially welcome you and the people of Fiji to this Democracy Delivers Initiative. The floor is yours.

    MIL OSI USA News –