Source: European Union 2
Since 1992, the EU Ecolabel has driven Europe towards a clean, competitive and circular economy and become a symbol that consumers trust. To get it, goods and services across 25 product groups must meet various environmental criteria like reuse potential and recyclability. Find out more.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
YINCHUAN, June 19 — Chinese Vice Premier Liu Guozhong has called for unremitting work to consolidate and expand China’s poverty alleviation achievements, and to optimize regular rural support policies.
Liu, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during a research trip to Shanxi Province, Gansu Province and the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region from Monday to Thursday.
After declaring that it had eradicated absolute poverty in 2021, China dedicated a five-year transition period to consolidating and building on the outcomes of its poverty alleviation campaign, and to integrating those outcomes with rural vitalization.
Noting that only six months of this transition period remain, Liu urged action to strengthen the monitoring of emergencies such as diseases and disasters, as well as action to mitigate possible risks. Poverty alleviation efforts in industries must be tailored to local conditions, Liu said, urging intensified work to stabilize employment and boost incomes for those who have emerged from poverty.
Follow-up assistance for people who participated in the country’s relocation and resettlement program should be strengthened, he said, also noting the necessity of strengthening collaboration between the country’s eastern and western regions, and of deepening targeted assistance from the central government.
At a symposium during his trip, he urged the establishment of a stratified and classified assistance system for rural low-income populations and underdeveloped areas during the approaching post-transition period. On the basis of safeguarding the bottom line to prevent large-scale relapse into poverty or the occurrence of poverty, rural revitalization efforts should be advanced across the board, he said.
Liu also emphasized the importance of completing summer harvest work effectively to ensure a full-year bumper grain harvest.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
The Oaklands Farm Solar Park application has today been granted development consent by the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero.
Oaklands Farm Solar Park
The application will comprise of the construction and operation of a solar farm plus energy storage with associated infrastructure and connection to the grid.
The application was submitted to the Planning Inspectorate for consideration by Oaklands Farm Solar Limited on 8 February 2024 and accepted for examination on 5 March 2024.
Following an examination during which the public, statutory consultees and interested parties were given the opportunity to give evidence to the Examining Authority, recommendations were made to the Secretary of State on 19 March 2025.
This is the 94th energy application out of 158 applications examined to date and was again completed by the Planning Inspectorate within the statutory timescale laid down in the Planning Act 2008.
Local communities continue to be given the opportunity of being involved in the examination of projects that may affect them. Local people, the local authority and other interested parties were able to participate in this six-month examination.
The Examining Authority listened and gave full consideration to all local views and the evidence gathered during the examination before making its recommendation to the Secretary of State.
The decision, the recommendation made by the Examining Authority to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero and the evidence considered by the Examining Authority in reaching its recommendation are publicly available on the project pages of the National Infrastructure Planning website.
Journalists wanting further information should contact the Planning Inspectorate Press Office, on 0303 444 5004 or 0303 444 5005 or email:
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
A law has been introduced to prevent British citizenship being reinstated to people considered a national security risk following a successful initial appeal.
National security will be strengthened under a new law to prevent British citizenship being reinstated to individuals considered a risk following a successful initial appeal.
The Deprivation of Citizenship Orders (Effect during Appeal) Bill will ensure that citizenship is not automatically reinstated after a successful appeal until all further appeals are exhausted—protecting the public from potential threats.
The bill addresses a gap in the law identified by the Supreme Court, where it confirmed people automatically regain their British citizenship if their initial appeal is successful – even before further appeals have been determined.
This could mean individuals who the government still considers a risk to the UK’s national security can either be released from immigration detention or return to the UK whilst further appeals are still possible or are ongoing.
This change will also prevent a person from having British citizenship reinstated and then renouncing any other nationalities. This would mean any future decision to deprive their citizenship following a successful further appeal, could not be made as it would unlawfully render them stateless, meaning they could also not be deported from the UK or prevented from returning if they were already overseas.
Security Minister Dan Jarvis said:
Protecting our national security and keeping the British public safe is the first duty of this government and the foundation of our Plan for Change. The power to deprive someone of their British citizenship is an essential tool, and helps protect us from some of the most dangerous people.
We must close this gap in the law and prevent British citizenship being reinstated to individuals until all appeals have been determined. This is the right thing to do if we believe someone is a threat to our national security, and it will make Britain safer.
Deprivation decisions on ‘conducive to the public good’ grounds are taken only in the most serious cases by the Home Secretary, where it is in the public interest to do so because of the individual’s conduct or the threat they pose to the UK.
The change in the law follows the similar approach taken in asylum and human rights appeals cases, where asylum is not granted to a person appealing a rejection until all further appeals, up to the Court of Appeal, have been determined.
This narrowly focussed bill, consisting of two clauses, makes no change to a person’s existing right to appeal any decision to remove their British citizenship, and doesn’t widen the reasons for which a person could be deprived of their citizenship.
Source: World Health Organisation
Leading G20 policy-makers, global health experts and representatives from both the private and public sectors are meeting in Geneva from 19–20 June for the annual Health20 Summit (H20) organized by the G20 Health & Development Partnership and co-hosted by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The Summit comes at a critical moment for global health amid geopolitical shifts, economic uncertainty, and shock funding cuts to development aid. It will focus on the future of global health and finance, and explore how to build resilience, trust, and sustainability into health systems.
This year marks the conclusion of the first cycle of G20 meetings, which began in 1999 as a forum for Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors of industrialized and developing countries to discuss global economic and financial stability.
The H20 Summit, which has been held annually since the first G20 Health Ministers Meeting in Germany in 2017, will explore strategies to secure the role of health and development in the next cycle starting in 2026, under the leadership of the United States of America.
Outcomes from the two-day deliberations will inform both the upcoming UN General Assembly’s fourth high-level meeting on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in September and the G20 health ministers and leaders’ summit in South Africa this November.
“WHO thanks the H20 for its advocacy at this critical time in global health. Severe disruptions to funding and changing disease burdens require new partnerships and approaches, including an increased focus on promoting health and preventing disease,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “WHO is working with all health and development partners, and supporting the G20, to help countries pivot from aid dependency to greater self-reliance in mobilizing domestic resources to deliver the health services their people need.”
Dr Ghebreyesus delivered the keynote address. Other high-level speakers included: H.E. Dr Jaleela bint Alsayed Jawad Hasan, Minister of Health, Kingdom of Bahrain; H.E. Dr Jean Kaseya, Director General, Africa CDC; H.E. Dr Hanan Al Kuwari, Advisor to the Prime Minister for Public Health Affairs; Former Minister of Health, Qatar H.E. Prof Orazio Schillaci, Minister of Health, Italy; Dr Pakishe Aaron (PA) Motsoaledi, Minister of Health, South Africa; and Dr Sania Nishtar, CEO, GAVI.
The first NCDs and Mental Health Global Legislators Report, which offers a toolkit for parliamentarians to advance preventative global health goals; and a second, The health taxonomy report that provides a first framework for a health investment tool aimed at fostering a shared understanding and common language between governments, companies, and investors, to help drive future health financing. This report is pertinent in light of the landmark health financing resolution adopted at last month’s World Health Assembly.
Under the theme ‘Reimagining partnerships & building back public trust in global health’ participants at the Summit will discuss the status of global health financing and why public-private partnerships are essential for future progress. The H20 Summit is unique in offering an inclusive and collaborative platform where the traditional global health community can intersect with decision-makers from politics and finance, with the purpose of elevating public health within the G20’s broader development agenda.
NCDs such as cancers, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases account for more than 43 million deaths each year and are on the rise. Mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, psychosis and self-harm, affect close to 1 billion people worldwide and represent a significant long-term risk to economic growth and security. The NCD and health taxonomy reports offer relevant and actionable recommendations for legislators and governments to close the NCD financing gap.
H.E. Dr Jaleela bint Alsayed Jawad Hasan, Minister of Health, Kingdom of Bahrain, said: “I welcome the NCDs and Mental Health Global Legislators Report launched at the H20 Summit. It is a timely contribution that demonstrates the role of parliamentarians in translating health commitments into lasting impact. As global health systems adapt to complex and evolving challenges, the Kingdom of Bahrain is advancing a model grounded in inclusive governance, robust legislation, and strategic investment.”
On financing specifically, Dr Agnes Soucat, Director of Health and Social Protection, Agence Française de Développement said: “We must differentiate between health funding and health financing. A health taxonomy already exists for operational costs but not for capital costs, which is what investors are most interested in.”
Note to editors
The G20 Health & Development Partnership is a not-for-profit advocacy organization representing over 27 global health organizations from across the public and private sector and academia aiming to ensure G20 countries coordinate their current and future health innovation strategies to tackle the growing global burden of communicable and noncommunicable diseases and promote the delivery of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 with a focus on SDG3 ‘health and well-being for all’ and SDG17 ‘strengthening partnerships’.
Source: World Health Organisation
With the theme “One World for Health,” WHA78 brought together Member States and other stakeholders to address major health priorities, including the Pandemic Agreement, antimicrobial resistance, climate-related health risks, and noncommunicable diseases.
A key development was the growing inclusion of civil society in the policy-making process. “Civil society is not only identifying critical challenges – it is contributing actionable, community-informed solutions,” said Taina Nakari, WHO’s lead for civil society engagement. “This is central to building trust and delivering results that meet the needs of populations.”
One of the main vehicles for strengthening civil society is the WHO Civil Society Commission, launched to support more systematic and inclusive civil society participation in global health governance. The Commission brings together over 400 organizations and individuals to co-develop policy inputs, share knowledge, and identify entry points into WHO processes.
“We’ve built a space where civil society can speak with one voice while honouring our diversity,” said Lisa Hilmi, Co-Chair of the Commission and CORE Group, Executive Director.
“We’re not just advising WHO,” added fellow Co-Chair and Medwise Solutions Director of Research and Evaluation, Ravi Ram. “We’re helping shape the way civil society engages in global health governance.”
In parallel with the Commission’s work, WHO also supported over 60 non-State actors –including NGOs, foundations, and associations – in delivering more than 200 formal statements to Member States. Nearly 50 official side events provided additional platforms for dialogue and collaboration. While these organizations are not all members of the WHO Civil Society Commission, their engagement is an important avenue to ensure more inclusive and participatory decision-making across WHO processes.
Another notable example was the high-level side event, “Securing Investments in Global Health: Time for a New Approach,” co-hosted by Save the Children, Medicus Mundi, World Vision, and the Government of Germany. Civil society representatives emphasized the need to reform global health financing by:
“We organized this event to underscore that sustainable financing for health is not only a technical necessity – it’s a matter of equity, accountability, and long-term impact,” said Tara Brace-John, Head of Policy, Advocacy and Research, Save the Children Fund. “Civil society brings grounded perspectives that can help policy-makers design solutions that prioritize health systems and deliver for the people who need them most.”
WHA78 also featured the second Global Parliamentary Dialogue, convening legislators from around the world to discuss how parliaments can support health priorities through inclusive, accountable governance. During the session, the WHO Civil Society Commission introduced its flagship report: “Civil Society Engagement in the Development of World Health Assembly Resolutions.”
The report offers practical guidance – including a checklist and real-world case studies – for systematically involving civil society throughout the resolution process.
“This report is the result of extensive consultation and shared learning across regions,” said Kjeld Steenbjerg Hansen, a member of the WHO Civil Society Commission and Past-Chair of the European Lung Foundation (ELF). “It provides Member States with practical tools to engage civil society from the beginning and systematically throughout the resolution – from early input to final negotiations – while also emphasizing the political value of more inclusive and participatory policy-making.”
Parliamentarians were encouraged to support the uptake of the report in their national and regional platforms, helping translate civil society perspectives into policy outcomes.
WHO’s engagement with civil society extends well beyond formal meetings. In May 2025, more than 500 civil society participants joined WHO’s Epidemic and Pandemic Intelligence – Information Network (WHO–EPI-WIN) technical briefing on the public health risks of avian influenza. Speakers at the session:
Civil society also participated in similar sessions on the Universal Health and Preparedness Review (UHPR), antimicrobial resistance (AMR), the Interim Medical Countermeasures Platform, the WHO Investment Round, and access to safe, effective, and quality-assured health products. These engagements reflect WHO’s commitment to ensuring civil society is not only informed but also actively involved in shaping global public health.
Their growing involvement in WHO governance helps ensure that health decisions are more inclusive, responsive, and effective, especially for those most affected.
Source: Government of Canada regional news
The Province is offering a reward of up to $150,000 for information about the disappearance of siblings Lilly and Jack Sullivan.
On May 2, the RCMP started a missing persons investigation for Lilly, 6, and Jack, 4, after family members could not locate the children in their home or on the property in Lansdowne Station, Pictou County.
Family members reported they last saw Lilly inside the home and could hear Jack on the morning of May 2. The investigation has confirmed that both Lilly and Jack were with family members on the afternoon of May 1.
“The disappearance of Jack and Lilly Sullivan is felt across the province and beyond, and my heart goes out to the family, the community and everyone who has been working to find these children since Day 1,” said Becky Druhan, Attorney General and Minister of Justice. “Police and investigators are working tirelessly to find answers, and I urge anyone with information to please share this with the RCMP as soon as possible.”
Lilly Sullivan is described as four feet tall and weighing 60 pounds, with light brown hair and hazel eyes. At the time of her disappearance, Lilly was believed to be wearing a pink Barbie top, pink rubber boots with rainbow print and carrying a cream-coloured backpack with strawberry print.
Jack Sullivan is described as three feet six inches tall and weighing 40 pounds, with dark blonde hair and hazel eyes. At the time of his disappearance, Jack was believed to be wearing a pull-up diaper, black Under Armour jogging pants and blue rubber boots with dinosaur print.
Anyone with information regarding this crime should call the Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program at 1-888-710-9090. People who come forward with information must provide their name and contact information and may be called to testify in court. All calls will be recorded.
People who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers of Nova Scotia at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Cases under the Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program are listed at: https://novascotia.ca/just/Public_Safety/Rewards
Source: US State of South Carolina
(COLUMBIA, S.C.) – South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced the arrest of Nathan Dwayne Reed, 25, of Hanahan, S.C., on 11 charges connected to the sexual exploitation of a minor. Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force investigators with the Attorney General’s Office made the arrest. Investigators with the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, Mount Pleasant Police Department, and Goose Creek Police Department, all also members of the state’s ICAC Task Force, assisted with this investigation.
Investigators received a CyberTipline report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which led them to Reed. Investigators state Reed distributed files of child sexual abuse material.
Reed was arrested on June 17, 2025. He is charged with 11 counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, second degree (§16-15-405), a felony offense punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment on each count.
The case will be prosecuted by the Attorney General’s Office.
Attorney General Wilson stressed all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they are proven guilty in a court of law.
* Child sexual abuse material, or CSAM, is a more accurate reflection of the material involved in these heinous and abusive crimes. “Pornography” can imply the child was a consenting participant. Globally, the term child pornography is being replaced by CSAM for this reason.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
SINGAPORE, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HTX, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, recently launched the second episode of its live talk show series, “Real Talk with HTX Executives”. In this edition, Molly, Head of HTX MO Centre, discussed pivotal themes: the legacy of the HTX brand, the platform’s robust performance, user trust-building initiatives, the roadmap for future brand development, and opportunities for women in Web3. She also offered a sneak peek at genuine user benefits planned for HTX’s 12th Anniversary. Molly emphasized that for HTX to become the top choice for both the industry and users, it must adopt a user-centric perspective, act with genuine sincerity, and build trust through steady, practical problem-solving.
Q: As HTX promotes a “return to a user-centric perspective” for its 12th anniversary, what is its branding strategy in today’s competitive market?
Molly: We don’t rely on nostalgia to capitalize on past glory. An emotional connection must be built on genuine sincerity. This year, our strategy centers on “sentiment + culture”. We’re rewarding long-term users to cultivate a stronger sense of companionship, while nurturing a dynamic and youthful crypto culture. For example, our slogan for May 20th (a Chinese internet-born Valentine’s Day), “You can share anything but your private key”, is designed to make crypto relatable and engaging, helping it reach a broader audience.
Q: Amid the fierce competition in marketing and innovation, how will HTX establish a unique user moat? Are there any major marketing campaigns on the horizon?
Molly: HTX doesn’t employ gimmicks and values genuine sincerity. We genuinely distribute rewards, and our rules are clearly written. From awarding HTX Affiliates to allocating 70% of rewards to regular users, and adopting the slogan “You have the talent, we have the resources”, HTX seeks to transform every sincere effort into lasting user trust. “Co-building” isn’t just a catchphrase — it means actively integrating user feedback into products and providing a platform for their voices.
Q: Given ongoing regulatory shifts and declining trust in centralized platforms, how does HTX intend to restore user trust via “trust marketing”? What specific strategies will be used?
Molly: Trust isn’t built with words; it’s earned bit by bit by solving real problems. HTX has its shortcomings, and we don’t shy away from them. We’re not afraid of users raising questions; what we fear is having no one there to respond. We’ll solve what we can immediately and report what we can’t with honesty. “Real Talk with HTX Executives” isn’t for show — it’s a commitment to transparency and making open dialogue the norm.
Q: Why is HTX continuing to develop the “Miss HTX” program? What are your views on opportunities for women in Web3, and what’s the story behind this year’s theme of “Discover Web3 Future Queen”?
Molly: I’ve been part of the journey from the first to the third season, watching many women rise from being doubted to being valued. Gold shines, but not everyone has a stage. HTX is willing to build a platform where truly talented and insightful women can be seen and recognized.
They are not just participants; they have found turning points in their lives on our platform. Women in Web3 should not be labeled but should become builders in this industry, using their wisdom and perspectives to make the crypto world more prosperous.
Q: As HTX approaches its 12th anniversary, what is the biggest challenge it faces?
Molly: Our focus is not on existing users within the crypto space but on how to best serve the next wave of newcomers, especially those coming from traditional finance and internet sectors. These users care more about long-term value and effective risk management.
HTX isn’t just in a user-acquisition race; we’re working to define the framework for a safer, more mature market. A truly trustworthy exchange should take responsibility for managing risks and empower users to achieve sustainable growth.
About HTX
Founded in 2013, HTX has evolved from a virtual asset exchange into a comprehensive ecosystem of blockchain businesses that span digital asset trading, financial derivatives, research, investments, incubation, and other businesses.
As a world-leading gateway to Web3, HTX harbors global capabilities that enable it to provide users with safe and reliable services. Adhering to the growth strategy of “Global Expansion, Thriving Ecosystem, Wealth Effect, Security & Compliance,” HTX is dedicated to providing quality services and values to virtual asset enthusiasts worldwide.
To learn more about HTX, please visit HTX Square or https://www.htx.com/, and follow HTX on X, Telegram, and Discord. For further inquiries, please contact glo-media@htx-inc.com.
Disclaimer: This content is provided by HTX. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.
Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
Oslo, 19 June 2025
The Annual General Meeting of Interoil Exploration and Production ASA will be held at the offices of Advokatfirmaet Schjødt AS at Tordenskiolds gate 12, Oslo on 10 July 2025 at 14:30 (CEST).
Please find attached the notice for the meeting including the attendance form and proxy in English and Norwegian.
The annual report for 2024 is available on the company’s web page here (https://interoil.no/investors/) and on NewsWeb here (https://newsweb.oslobors.no/message/649531).
Shareholders may register their attendance digitally on VPS Investor Portal by following this link (
https://investor.vps.no/gm/logOn.htm?token=f3ee64a6145e5f713d1b0c3cd7373dab4736755b&validTo=1754483400000&oppdragsId=20250616VPIEJXU0).
This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act
Please direct any further questions to ir@interoil.no (mailto:ir@interoil.no)
About Interoil
Interoil Exploration and Production ASA is a Norwegian based exploration and production company – listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange with focus on Latin America. The Company is operator and license holder of several production and exploration assets in Colombia and Argentina with headquarter in Oslo.
Attachment
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
Press Release
Atos and IGM Financial successfully complete public cloud transformation
Paris, France – June 19, 2025 – Atos, a global leader in digital transformation, today announces the completed data center migration project of Canada’s leading diversified wealth and asset management company IGM Financial Inc., transforming assets to a modern, agile and secure solution built on Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud Platform (GCP).
The new, cloud-native model will help IGM drive efficiencies and business outcomes through enhanced control, speed and scalability. Further, Atos’ expertise in implementing a scalable, agile architecture empowers IGM to mitigate risk and provide enhanced visibility for reporting and remediation.
Transitioning from the legacy data center to a cloud model provides IGM with the ability to seamlessly scale resources, enabling the testing and introduction of new applications and services without the need for upfront infrastructure investments. IGM can rapidly deploy new solutions and maintain an up-to-date technology stack with greater flexibility and efficiency.
Further, adopting a cloud-based solution facilitates seamless integration with advanced technologies, such as AI, machine learning, IoT and other innovative tools, positioning IGM to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
The migration to the new, cloud-native model was successfully completed on schedule, ensuring uninterrupted business continuity.
“The successful delivery of the data center migration to the public cloud underscores Atos’ proven ability to execute highly complex and mission-critical migration projects with precision,” said Ed Nemes, Head of Canada, Atos Group.
“We’re pleased to have collaborated with our partner, Atos, whose comprehensive expertise has helped to further modernize our technology infrastructure,” said Sam Burns, Chief Information Officer, IGM Financial. “This achievement marks a significant milestone in our ongoing digital transformation journey that enables us to better serve the financial needs of Canadians while also improving the employee and advisor experience.”
Atos has longstanding relationships and expertise with leading public cloud companies, including Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud, allowing for customized digital approaches for its customers who seek various solutions. Last year, Atos announced its five-year partnership with Microsoft to drive digital transformation and empower businesses with advanced technologies, as well as shared plans to help clients across industries move to the cloud and facilitate their use of Azure OpenAI Service.
With more than 19,500 cloud experts worldwide and four global cloud centers, Atos is a trusted advisor to provide transformation expertise at every stage of the cloud continuum, delivering on the promise of enabling business agility, continual optimization, innovation at speed and growth for its customers. Learn more at Cloud and Infrastructure – Atos.
***
About Atos Group
Atos Group is a global leader in digital transformation with c. 72,000 employees and annual revenue of c. € 10 billion, operating in 68 countries under two brands — Atos for services and Eviden for products. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, Atos Group is committed to a secure and decarbonized future and provides tailored AI-powered, end-to-end solutions for all industries. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea) and listed on Euronext Paris.
The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.
Press contacts:
Northern America: Maggie Wainscott | maggie.wainscott@atos.net
Global: Isabelle Grangé | isabelle.grange@atos.net
Attachment
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
SINGAPORE, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With the price of Bitcoin (BTC) holding above $100,000 for a long time, many analysts are predicting that the cryptocurrency market will remain in a state of high volatility for a long time. Holding spot positions may struggle to generate short-term profits in such conditions. As a result, 100x leverage futures trading has become the preferred tool for seasoned investors looking to maximize potential gains in this volatile market. BexBack Exchange is ramping up its efforts to offer traders unmatched promotional packages. The platform now features a 100% deposit bonus, a $50 welcome bonus for new users, and 100x leverage on cryptocurrency trading, providing exceptional opportunities for investors.
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Contact:
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business@bexback.com
Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack.The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.
Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.
Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7dfb4b28-6c1c-4807-b56a-9f0077e16f8a
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1715add7-36d6-4509-991e-e8f9c63d7013
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Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
TORONTO, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Canadian Life Companies Split Corp. (“the Company”) is pleased to announce it has completed the overnight marketing of Preferred Shares (TSX: LFE.PR.B) and Class A Shares (TSX: LFE) of the Company. Total gross proceeds of the offering are expected to be approximately $40.0 million.
The offering is being led by National Bank Financial Inc.
The sales period of the overnight offering has now ended.
The offering is expected to close on or about June 26, 2025 and is subject to certain closing conditions including approval by the TSX.
The Preferred Shares were offered at a price of $10.55 per Preferred Share to yield 6.64% and the Class A Shares were offered at a price of $6.35 per Class A Share to yield 18.90%.
The closing price on the TSX of each of the Preferred Shares and Class A Shares on June 18, 2025 was $10.70 and $6.50, respectively.
The net proceeds of the offering will be used by the Company to invest in an actively managed portfolio primarily consisting of four publicly traded Canadian life insurance companies as follows: Great‐West Lifeco Inc., Industrial Alliance Insurance & Financial Services Inc., Manulife Financial Corporation and Sun Life Financial Inc.
The Company’s investment objectives are:
Preferred Shares:
Class A Shares:
A prospectus supplement to the Company’s short form base shelf prospectus dated May 1, 2024, containing important detailed information about the Preferred Shares and the Class A Shares being offered will be filed with securities commissions or similar authorities in all provinces of Canada. Copies of the prospectus supplement and the short form base shelf prospectus may be obtained from your registered financial advisor using the contact information for such advisor, or from representatives of the agents listed above. There will not be any sale or any acceptance of an offer to buy the securities being offered until the prospectus supplement has been filed with the Securities Commissions or similar authorities in each of the provinces of Canada.
Investor Relations: 1-877-478-2372 Local: 416-304-4443 www.lifesplit.com info@quadravest.com
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
HONG KONG, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — At Super AI, Asia’s largest AI event held in Singapore, GPTBots.ai emerged as a highlight among enterprise AI platforms. The event brought together global industry leaders, innovators, and decision-makers, all seeking practical, scalable AI solutions to accelerate digital transformation and maintain a competitive edge.
Spotlighting Real Enterprise Needs
Throughout the exhibition, GPTBots engaged with top-tier clients whose needs reflected the region’s most urgent business trends:
How GPTBots Delivers
GPTBots’ enterprise-grade platform is designed for rapid, flexible deployment across industries:
Driving the Future of Enterprise AI in Asia
Super AI Singapore underscored the region’s growing demand for secure, adaptable, and industry-specific AI solutions. GPTBots is committed to bridging the gap between cutting-edge AI technology and real business value—helping enterprises unlock new opportunities, boost efficiency, and deliver exceptional customer experiences.
About GPTBots.ai
GPTBots.ai is an enterprise AI agent platform that empowers businesses to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive growth. Offering end-to-end AI solutions across customer service, knowledge search, data analysis, and lead generation, GPTBots enables enterprises to harness the full potential of AI with ease. With seamless integration into various systems, and support for scalable, secure deployments, GPTBots is dedicated to reducing costs, accelerating growth, and helping businesses thrive in the AI era.
To learn how GPTBots can accelerate your AI transformation, visit gptbots.ai.
Media Contact:
Tanya
Marketing Director
marketing@gptbots.ai
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b67ba9d7-360b-4607-a8b5-fd37bff23e82
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
HONG KONG, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — At Super AI, Asia’s largest AI event held in Singapore, GPTBots.ai emerged as a highlight among enterprise AI platforms. The event brought together global industry leaders, innovators, and decision-makers, all seeking practical, scalable AI solutions to accelerate digital transformation and maintain a competitive edge.
Spotlighting Real Enterprise Needs
Throughout the exhibition, GPTBots engaged with top-tier clients whose needs reflected the region’s most urgent business trends:
How GPTBots Delivers
GPTBots’ enterprise-grade platform is designed for rapid, flexible deployment across industries:
Driving the Future of Enterprise AI in Asia
Super AI Singapore underscored the region’s growing demand for secure, adaptable, and industry-specific AI solutions. GPTBots is committed to bridging the gap between cutting-edge AI technology and real business value—helping enterprises unlock new opportunities, boost efficiency, and deliver exceptional customer experiences.
About GPTBots.ai
GPTBots.ai is an enterprise AI agent platform that empowers businesses to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive growth. Offering end-to-end AI solutions across customer service, knowledge search, data analysis, and lead generation, GPTBots enables enterprises to harness the full potential of AI with ease. With seamless integration into various systems, and support for scalable, secure deployments, GPTBots is dedicated to reducing costs, accelerating growth, and helping businesses thrive in the AI era.
To learn how GPTBots can accelerate your AI transformation, visit gptbots.ai.
Media Contact:
Tanya
Marketing Director
marketing@gptbots.ai
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b67ba9d7-360b-4607-a8b5-fd37bff23e82
Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:
One side event at the African Development Bank Group’s (www.AfDB.org) 2025 Annual Meetings unpacked the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a powerful tool to advance inclusive and sustainable development across the African continent.
Held under the theme: “The AI Revolution: How Will AI Support the Delivery of the African Development Bank’s 2024–2033 Ten-Year Strategy and the Transformation of African Economies?”, the 90-minute session convened leading voices from across sectors. The event was co-hosted with Google AI Research.
At the heart of the discussion was the question: What will it take for Africa to become AI-ready? which was the central theme of the high-level panel discussion as part of the event.
In his opening remarks, Solomon Quaynor, Vice-President for Private Sector, Infrastructure & Industrialization of the African Development Bank underscored the critical role of digital transformation in shaping Africa’s future: “AI is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for Africa’s competitiveness, resilience, and long-term prosperity,” he said.
Caroline Kende-Robb, Senior Director of Strategy and Operational Policies at the Bank, framed the conversation within the context of the Bank’s 2024–2033 Ten-Year Strategy (https://apo-opa.co/3ZFWakh).
She stressed that “Investing in youth and data infrastructure is no longer optional—these are the foundations upon which Africa must build its AI future.” Her remarks echoed the strategy’s call to leapfrog development through innovation, anchored in African realities and driven by African talent.
Following her intervention, Abdoulaye Diack, Program Manager at Google AI Research Africa, highlighted the transformative potential of AI to address structural challenges and unlock progress in agriculture, education, climate adaptation, and public health.
Diack emphasized the importance of contextualizing AI for African environments, warning that “without local data and inclusive models, Africa risks becoming a passive consumer rather than an active creator of AI solutions.”
Ibrahim Kalil Konaté, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Digital Transition and Digitalization, advocated for regional coordination and harmonized policy frameworks to enable responsible, cross-border implementation of AI technologies.
Robert Skjodt, Group CEO of Raxio Group, focused on the critical need for robust digital infrastructure—especially local data centers—to support the scale and speed required for Africa’s AI ambitions.
Ousmane Fall, Director of Private Sector Transaction Support at the Bank, called for the development of bankable, scalable digital infrastructure projects that can attract long-term investment.
Moustapha Cissé, CEO of Kera Health Platforms, and a respected pioneer in African AI research, stressed the need for ethical frameworks and AI systems that reflect African social, cultural, and healthcare contexts.
Muthoni Karubiu, Chief Operations Officer at Amini, concluded the panel with a call to enhance data sovereignty, especially in the context of agriculture and climate action, by ensuring access to localized and context-specific environmental data.
Harnessing the power of AI for Africa’s success
A strong consensus emerged across the panel – for Africa to harness AI effectively, it must focus on three foundational pillars:
– Human Capital: Equip the next generation with AI literacy and professional expertise.
– Data Infrastructure: Build the digital backbone for connectivity, storage, and secure data exchange.
– Localized Data: Train AI systems on African realities, including languages, culture, and societal needs.
With Africa holding just 1.3% of global data storage capacity and lagging in digital readiness, speakers agreed that the continent is at a crossroads and must urgently make the choice to invest now, or risk falling further behind.
As Africa moves forward in artificial intelligence, the African Development Bank reaffirms its commitment to shaping a digital future that is inclusive, sovereign, and anchored in shared prosperity.
For more information or to revisit this session, click here (https://apo-opa.co/4eu3i9P)
– on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).
Contact:
Chara Tsitoura
Communication and External Relations
media@afdb.org
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Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:
G Wellness Company Limited, a subsidiary of MP Trading Group, is proud to announce its strategic partnership with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (www.WyndhamHotels.com), the world’s largest hotel franchising company, to debut the first internationally branded resort in Banjul, The Gambia, under the globally recognized Ramada by Wyndham brand.
This landmark development marks a significant milestone for The Gambia’s growing tourism and hospitality sector, reinforcing its status as a rising destination in West Africa. Located on the Atlantic coast, The Gambia is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and natural beauty. As the smallest country on mainland Africa, it has made impressive strides in recent years to position tourism as a key pillar of national development. In 2019 alone, the country welcomed over 620,000 visitors, with the government continuing to invest in infrastructure and travel-related services to boost its global appeal.
The new Ramada Resort by Wyndham Banjul will be situated in the popular coastal town of Kotu, a well-established tourist hub known for its scenic beaches and lively local markets. Conveniently located approximately 22 kilometers from Banjul International Airport and about 15 kilometers from Banjul city center, the resort will feature 65 elegantly appointed guest rooms, an all-day dining restaurant, lounge bar, ocean-view swimming pool, wellness spa, and meeting facilities — offering both leisure and business travelers an elevated stay experience.
“Partnering with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts for this landmark project in Banjul marks an important milestone for us,” said Mr. Manish Tilokani, Chairman of MP Trading Group. “Bringing the first internationally branded resort in The Gambia is a meaningful step in our growth, and with Ramada by Wyndham, we are committed to delivering high-quality hospitality standards. We look forward to welcoming guests to the resort by mid-2026.”
“This collaboration with G Wellness Company Limited represents a significant addition to our portfolio in West Africa,” said Govind Mundra, Head of Development – Middle East & Africa at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “It reflects our ongoing focus on expanding into high-potential, underserved markets and supporting our partners in delivering trusted, branded hospitality. We value our relationship with Mr. Manish and his team and see strong potential for further development across the region.”
– on behalf of Wyndham.
Contact:
Mr. Manish Tilokani
G Wellness Company Limited
Phone: +220 336 5900
E-mail: emailmanishtilokani@gmail.com
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US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)
NY Times Op-Ed
Padilla: “If this administration is willing to handcuff a U.S. senator, imagine what it is willing to do to any American who dares to speak up.”
WASHINGTON, D.C. — In case you missed it, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, published an op-ed in the New York Times this morning following his forcible removal from Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem’s press conference, where he was thrown to the ground and handcuffed after attempting to ask a question.
Padilla blasted President Trump’s unprecedented militarization of Los Angeles and warned against the immense consequences of the Trump Administration’s increasingly callous anti-immigrant rhetoric and actions, not only for hardworking immigrants essential to our communities and economy, but for the fundamental democratic rights of Americans across the country. He called Trump’s manufactured crisis in Los Angeles a “warning shot” and a “wake-up call” for his Republican colleagues and the American people to speak up against Trump’s egregious continued abuse of power.
Key Excerpts:
Senator Padilla has been outspoken in calling out the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in Los Angeles and Trump’s misguided deployment of the National Guard and U.S. Marine Corps. This past weekend, Padilla led the entire Senate Democratic Caucus in demanding that President Trump immediately withdraw all military forces from Los Angeles and cease all threats to deploy the National Guard or active-duty servicemembers to American cities. Last week, Padilla and Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) demanded answers regarding the Trump Administration’s decision to deploy approximately 700 Marines to Los Angeles. Padilla has spoken at a spotlight hearing and on the Senate floor multiple times to blast President Trump for manufacturing a crisis by launching indiscriminate ICE raids across Los Angeles and deploying the National Guard and active-duty servicemembers to the region. He also joined all Senate Judiciary Committee Democrats earlier this week in calling on Chairman Grassley to schedule Department of Homeland Security Secretary Noem for a broad oversight hearing for testimony before the committee.
Full text of Senator Padilla’s NY Times op-ed is available here and below:
NY Times: Senator Padilla: The Trump Administration Handcuffed Me, but I Refuse to Stay Silent
By U.S. Senator Alex Padilla
Growing up in the northeast San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles in the 1980s and 90s, you know what can happen if you don’t completely cooperate with law enforcement.
Even so, it was jarring last week when, despite clearly identifying myself as a U.S. senator, I was forcibly removed from a news conference at which Kristi Noem, the secretary of homeland security, promised to “liberate” Los Angeles from our democratically elected mayor and governor. As I was thrown to the ground, handcuffed and walked down a hall while officers refused to tell me why I was being detained, my mind raced with questions.
Where are they taking me? Am I being arrested? What will a city already on edge from being militarized think when they see their senator has just been handcuffed?
What will my wife and our three boys think?
I imagined similar questions were running through the mind of Brad Lander, the New York City comptroller and mayoral candidate, this week when he, too, was handcuffed by federal agents for asking them whether they had a warrant to arrest a migrant he had locked arms with. Like me, Mr. Lander had the audacity to question the legitimacy of federal actions, only to find himself pushed against a wall and detained.
If you watched what happened to me or Mr. Lander these past few days and thought this was about any one politician or altercation, you are missing the point.
If this administration is willing to handcuff a U.S. senator, imagine what it is willing to do to any American who dares to speak up.
If that’s what can happen when the cameras are on, imagine what is already happening in communities across the country when the cameras are off.
Today, it’s immigrants on the receiving end of Donald Trump’s outrage machine. Tomorrow, it could be anyone.
We have seen this playbook before. In fact, it’s what drew me to politics in the first place, back in 1994. I had just earned my mechanical engineering degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, with my sights set on a lucrative career in engineering, but life had a different plan for me. I returned home from school to find hateful TV ads and a statewide ballot called Proposition 187, a proposal targeting immigrant families and communities like mine. It was the result of a Republican governor who was up for re-election and who had turned to scapegoating immigrants to try to improve his declining political standing.
As the proud son of immigrants from Mexico who came to California to pursue the American dream, I am living proof of the promise this country provides to all of us. Where else can the son of a housekeeper and a short-order cook become a senator? But I also know that America’s promise doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because throughout our history ordinary people have called out our country’s contradictions and called on the government to live up to the principles of equality established at our founding.
And so I got involved. Alongside friends and family, I marched against the vile anti-immigrant rhetoric that was growing in California. Because of the movement that started in the 1990s, a generation of diverse leaders have come of age in California. Today, we celebrate immigrants — knowing full well that California has become the fourth-largest economy in the world, not despite our immigrants but because of them.
So when Mr. Trump began to face a groundswell of criticism a few weeks ago for his unpopular Medicaid cuts, failed tariff wars and embarrassing public breakup with a billionaire adviser, I suspected that it wouldn’t be long before he broke out the same tired anti-immigrant tactics to distract the public. Raids intensified, detentions skyrocketed and Mr. Trump’s narrative of crisis escalated in the hopes of diverting attention from his political failures.
If the administration were primarily targeting dangerous criminals, as some White House officials have claimed, there would be no debate. But new reporting shows that less than 10 percent of immigrants taken into ICE custody since October have serious criminal convictions. They may be undocumented, but who are they? Oftentimes, they’re hardworking cooks, day laborers, carwash employees, farmworkers and construction workers. Many are the same people Mr. Trump declared essential workers during the Covid-19 pandemic.
But as we’ve seen in Los Angeles, public safety is not the point — the spectacle is. Americans are living through a historic moment of presidential overreach. With a cabinet of yes-men and underqualified attack dogs surrounding him — from the D.H.S. Secretary to the F.B.I. director to the secretary of defense — Mr. Trump is now testing the boundaries of his power. And he’s using the theatrics around his immigration policies to do it.
That’s why when Angelenos gathered to protest these injustices, the administration labeled them “insurrectionists,” deliberately twisting dissent into something dangerous to use as a pretext for repression.
So if you thought any of this administration’s theatrics in Los Angeles these past few weeks was truly about immigrants, it’s time to wake up. If federal troops can deploy to Los Angeles against the wishes of the governor, the mayor and even local law enforcement, they can do the same tomorrow in your hometown. This is a fundamental threat to the rule of law nationwide.
What’s happening in Los Angeles is a warning shot. But I pray it can also be a wake-up call — for my Republican Senate colleagues who have stayed silent in the face of their colleague’s handcuffing, but also for Americans of every stripe who think they’re insulated from Mr. Trump’s power grabs because they’re not immigrants or because they’re not from a blue state.
Democracy doesn’t fall from any one decision or any one attack. It falls from a thousand cuts that slowly erode our fundamental freedoms. It falls when good people see our democracy sliding backward but still choose to say nothing.
Even as I’ve seen the authoritarian instincts of this administration up close, I know America is not past saving. True liberation doesn’t come through military occupation. It comes through democratic participation — participation like what we saw this past weekend, when millions of Americans came out to protest this administration’s abuse of power.
To any American wondering if democracy is lost or if they can ever make a difference, I’d say this: If the Trump administration was this scared of one senator with a question, imagine what the voices of tens of millions of Americans organizing will do. No one is coming to save us but us.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
New guidance published today will provide a boost in the quality of care for people with a learning disability or autistic people
Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism named after teenager who died in 2016 after having severe reaction to medication given to him against family’s wishes
People with a learning disability and autistic people will get safer, more personalised care as the government publishes new guidelines for health and care providers to train staff.
The Oliver McGowan code of practice on statutory learning disability and autism training aims to ensure staff have the right skills to provide care and boost understanding of the needs of these groups of people.
It sets out the standards that providers are expected to meet to be compliant with the law and help make sure patients are kept safe.
Those with a learning disability or autistic people face poorer health outcomes than the general population, and it is crucial that health and social care staff have the right knowledge and skills to tackle these inequalities.
The training and the Code of Practice are named after Oliver McGowan, an 18-year-old from Bristol with a mild learning disability who died following a severe reaction to medication given to him against his and his family’s strong wishes.
Under the law, health and care providers registered by the Care Quality Commission have a requirement to ensure staff have the appropriate training.
Minister of State for Care, Stephen Kinnock said:
I pay tribute to Paula McGowan OBE and Tom McGowan and their incredible campaign to improve the care of people with a learning disability and autistic people after the tragic death of their son, Oliver.
Through their work, they have shown admirable dedication, commitment and passion – Oliver’s memory and legacy lives through them.
This government recognises the appalling health inequalities faced by people with a learning disability and autistic people.
Everyone deserves to receive high-quality, empathetic and dignified care but this cannot be achieved if staff do not have the right training. The Oliver McGowan Code of Practice published today will be a boost for anyone with a learning disability or autistic people, their families and loved ones.
Paul and Tom McGowan said:
The publication of the Code of Practice marks a deeply emotional and significant milestone for us and will ensure Oliver’s legacy will continue to make a difference by safeguarding people with a learning disability and autistic individuals from the same preventable failings that he tragically endured.
The Code establishes a comprehensive legal framework for the delivery of the training, promoting consistency and a deeper understanding across health and social care services.
We are profoundly grateful to cross party politicians for their unwavering support and especially to Baroness Sheila Hollins, whose leadership has been pivotal in advancing this important work.
Our heartfelt thanks extend to everyone within the NHS and social care sectors, to our expert trainers, and to individuals with a learning disability and or autism, along with their families and carers. This is a true example of what meaningful change looks like, giving a voice to those who are not always seen or heard, creating a lasting impact that will continue to transform lives for the better.
Tom Cahill CBE, National Director, Learning Disability and Autism NHS England said:
We know that often the quality of care and support for people with a learning disability and autistic people has not been good enough and we are determined to make this better .
This code of practice – a result of Paula and Tom McGowan’s tireless dedication – will mean all NHS staff have the training and support they need to reduce inequalities and give people with a learning disability or autistic people the care they deserve.
Rebecca Bushell-Bauers, Care Quality Commission Director for people with a learning disability and autistic people said:
Today highlights Paula and Tom McGowan’s tireless campaigning in their son’s name for better care for autistic people and people with a learning disability.
We are dedicated to advocating for and improving the health and care outcomes for people with learning disabilities and autistic people. The code of practice will further support us in assessing and inspecting whether health and social care providers are training their carers and staff to support autistic people and people with a learning disability appropriately and hold them to account to ensure they are delivering good, informed and safe care.
Baroness Hollins said:
I am delighted that, following my amendment to the 2022 Health and Care Act, the Oliver McGowan Code of Practice has now been laid before Parliament. This milestone supports the requirement that health and care staff complete training that equips them to better care for people with a learning disability and autistic people.
I pay special tribute to Paula and Tom McGowan, whose tireless advocacy in memory of their son, Oliver, has led to lasting change including through the Code and training in his name. This is a vital step towards tackling health inequalities and improving care across health and social care services.
The training will be backed by funding as part of the Learning and Development Support Scheme for adult social care in Autumn 2025.
Any adult social care providers who arrange for training for their staff between April 2025 and March 2026 will be reimbursed for the costs.
The Health and Care Act 2022 set out a legal requirement for CQC health and care providers to ensure staff receive appropriate training in caring for those with a learning disability or autistic people.
Oliver McGowan was repeatedly prescribed antipsychotic medications despite medical notes highlighting his severe adverse reactions to these drugs and against his and his family’s wishes.
Healthcare staff consistently failed to understand how autism presented alongside epilepsy and did not make the adjustments needed to accommodate for his needs.
Oliver died after developing a severe side effect to the medication which caused brain damage, and after life support was withdrawn by his parents, he died on 11 November 2016.
Oliver’s parents, Paula and Tom McGowan, have campaigned for better training for health and care staff to improve understanding of the needs of people with a learning disability or autistic people.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
A man who raped a woman and shared a video of his assault with other people has had his sentence increased, following intervention by the Solicitor General.
Gagandeep Gulati (20), from Hounslow, West London, has had his sentence increased by three years after the Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP, referred the case to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.
The Court heard that Gulati found the victim near Jubilee Square in Leicester city centre and coerced her to go to Castle Gardens where he raped and sexually assaulted her.
Gulati’s movements were captured by CCTV, which led detectives to an accommodation where he was arrested.
During police enquiries, Gulati claimed that he had been raped and assaulted by the victim. However, detectives found that he had filmed his attack on the victim and shared the footage with other people.
The Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP said:
Gagandeep Gulati’s rape of a vulnerable young woman before sharing his awful crimes with other people was sickening.
I welcome the court’s decision to increase his sentence following my intervention.
On 28 March 2025, Gagandeep Gulati was sentenced to six years’ imprisonment for rape, assault by penetration, sexual assault, and sharing or threatening to share an intimate photograph or film. He was also placed on the sex offender register for life.
On 19 June 2025, judges increased Gulati’s sentence to nine years, while imposing concurrent sentences for the assault by penetration and sexual assault of four years and six months respectively after it was referred to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.
Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police
A senior judge has praised the Metropolitan Police Service following one of the most challenging and complex investigations conducted by detectives to bring a serial rapist to justice.
The case demonstrates the Met’s ongoing commitment to keeping women and girls safe and work to eradicate sexual violence, largely at the hands of predatory men.
Zhenhao Zou, 28 (20.02.97), of Churchyard Row, Elephant and Castle, was convicted of drugging and raping women both in the UK and China in March 2025. A jury found him guilty of 28 offences in total, including counts of voyeurism, possession of an extreme pornographic image, possession of a drug to commit a sexual offence and false imprisonment.
On Thursday, 19 June, he was sentenced at Inner London Crown Court to a life sentence. He will have to serve a minimum of 24 years.
The lengthy sentence reflects justice for the women who are victim-survivors of Zou and is testament to the extraordinary lengths gone to by investigators, who left no stone unturned in their pursuit to take a dangerous sexual predator off the streets.
Following the sentencing hearing, officers paid tribute to the brave victim-survivors, who have always remained at the very heart of the investigation.
During the sentencing hearing, the judge commended Met detectives DC Jack Woods and DC Oliver Colville, while paying tribute to the whole prosecution team.
Commander Kevin Southworth, of the Metropolitan Police Service, said: “First and foremost, our thoughts have always been with the courageous victim-survivors of Zou’s heinous and predatory crimes.
“Thanks to the remarkable efforts of our officers and prosecutors, a dangerous and cowardly offender has been handed a life sentence. I hope the fact Zou can no longer harm others serves as a small amount of comfort to the women who have suffered immeasurably.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to stress that our investigation remains open and we continue to appeal to anyone who may think they have been a victim of Zou. Please come forward and speak with our team – we will treat you with empathy, kindness and respect.”
The investigation
Before his arrest in January 2024, Zou was a student at University College London (UCL) since 2019 and prior to that studied at Queen’s University Belfast.
Zou used social media platforms and dating websites to target victim-survivors – all of which are believed to be of Chinese heritage. He lured women to his accommodation under the pretence of having a drink or studying and then plied them with drinks laced with drugs.
He filmed himself as he raped the woman as they lost consciousness.
Met investigators watched hundreds of these disturbing videos as they built a case of evidence against Zou. It was after analysis of this graphic and disturbing material that it became apparent that he had not only committed offences in London, but also in his home country of China too.
The prosecution team were unable to identify all of the victim-survivors captured, so relied on this video evidence to present a compelling case during the trial. Officers also meticulously pulled together over 4000 documents to leave no doubt in the jury’s mind about Zou’s guilt.
Alongside this, they downloaded around six and a half terabytes worth of data from Zou’s phones and laptops, which included around nine million messages. This is the equivalent to 1,664 hours of footage and is one of the biggest cases the Met’s digital forensics lab has ever dealt with.
Met officers spent months trawling through messages to understand Zou’s pattern of offending, scrupulously translating them into English from Simplified Chinese.
The appeal
Following Zou’s conviction, investigators shared that they believed Zou’s offending was much wider than the eleven rapes he was convicted of. They made a direct appeal to unidentified victim-survivors to come forward and seek specialist support.
Securing justice for the victim-survivors of Zou and putting him behind bars has been at the forefront of detective’s minds since the start of the investigation. To secure a conviction through a fair trial, officers made the decision not to appeal for further victim-survivors ahead of conviction. Sharing specific information relating to his offending may have caused the case to collapse, leaving Zou to offend again. By appealing post-conviction, the Met was able to share the fullest details to support potential victim-survivors coming forward.
Since the appeal in March 2025, 24 women have made reports to the police. These continue to be investigated thoroughly by a dedicated team of officers. Following the sentencing hearing, the team will continue to liaise with the Crown Prosecution Services around potential future charges.
Detectives continue to keep an open mind about the identities of unidentified victim-survivors but have been keen to speak to women from the Chinese student community – they may have been living in London between 2019-2024 or met Zou while he was living in China.
So far, investigators have not received any reports from women who met Zou while he was living in Belfast but remain in contact with Police Service Northern Ireland. They continue to encourage any current or former Northern Ireland residents who have concerns to come forward and speak to officers.
Saira Pike, of the Crown Prosecution Service, said: “Zou is a serial rapist and a danger to women. His life sentence reflects the heinous acts and harm he caused to women and the danger he posed to society.
“We have always been determined to seek justice for both the unidentified and identified victims in this case. We used an evidence-led approach that relied on the video recordings of Zou to ensure this dangerous predator faced justice.
“The prosecution team worked with the police for over a year to pick apart an unprecedented amount of footage and web chats showing his meticulous planning and the horrifying execution of his crimes.
“Following the police appeal, we will continue to review and consider any further charges to ensure that he is held accountable and seek justice for all victims.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to once again express my heartfelt thanks to the courageous women who came forward to report Zou’s horrific crimes. They have been incredibly strong and brave – there is no doubt that their evidence helped us to secure his conviction, and the life sentence handed to him today.”
How to contact the police and independent support agencies:
Reports relating to Zhenhao Zou can be made online via the Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP): https://mipp.police.uk/operation/01MPS25X38-PO1 . The MIPP is also available in Simplified Chinese https://mipp.police.uk/operation/01MPS25X38-PO2, so it is as accessible as possible for potential victim-survivors.
If you wish to speak to Met detectives or make a report relating to Zou, you can also contact police via email on survivors@met.police.uk
You can also make a report to police by calling 101 from within the UK, quoting reference 2904/04FEB25.
If you live in England or Wales and have been affected by this case and would like to seek support from specialist agencies, please contact the independent charity Rape Crisis via their 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line or call them on 0808 500 2222. Specially trained staff are there to listen, answer questions and offer emotional support.
Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police
A senior judge has praised the Metropolitan Police Service following one of the most challenging and complex investigations conducted by detectives to bring a serial rapist to justice.
The case demonstrates the Met’s ongoing commitment to keeping women and girls safe and work to eradicate sexual violence, largely at the hands of predatory men.
Zhenhao Zou, 28 (20.02.97), of Churchyard Row, Elephant and Castle, was convicted of drugging and raping women both in the UK and China in March 2025. A jury found him guilty of 28 offences in total, including counts of voyeurism, possession of an extreme pornographic image, possession of a drug to commit a sexual offence and false imprisonment.
On Thursday, 19 June, he was sentenced at Inner London Crown Court to a life sentence. He will have to serve a minimum of 24 years.
The lengthy sentence reflects justice for the women who are victim-survivors of Zou and is testament to the extraordinary lengths gone to by investigators, who left no stone unturned in their pursuit to take a dangerous sexual predator off the streets.
Following the sentencing hearing, officers paid tribute to the brave victim-survivors, who have always remained at the very heart of the investigation.
During the sentencing hearing, the judge commended Met detectives DC Jack Woods and DC Oliver Colville, while paying tribute to the whole prosecution team.
Commander Kevin Southworth, of the Metropolitan Police Service, said: “First and foremost, our thoughts have always been with the courageous victim-survivors of Zou’s heinous and predatory crimes.
“Thanks to the remarkable efforts of our officers and prosecutors, a dangerous and cowardly offender has been handed a life sentence. I hope the fact Zou can no longer harm others serves as a small amount of comfort to the women who have suffered immeasurably.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to stress that our investigation remains open and we continue to appeal to anyone who may think they have been a victim of Zou. Please come forward and speak with our team – we will treat you with empathy, kindness and respect.”
The investigation
Before his arrest in January 2024, Zou was a student at University College London (UCL) since 2019 and prior to that studied at Queen’s University Belfast.
Zou used social media platforms and dating websites to target victim-survivors – all of which are believed to be of Chinese heritage. He lured women to his accommodation under the pretence of having a drink or studying and then plied them with drinks laced with drugs.
He filmed himself as he raped the woman as they lost consciousness.
Met investigators watched hundreds of these disturbing videos as they built a case of evidence against Zou. It was after analysis of this graphic and disturbing material that it became apparent that he had not only committed offences in London, but also in his home country of China too.
The prosecution team were unable to identify all of the victim-survivors captured, so relied on this video evidence to present a compelling case during the trial. Officers also meticulously pulled together over 4000 documents to leave no doubt in the jury’s mind about Zou’s guilt.
Alongside this, they downloaded around six and a half terabytes worth of data from Zou’s phones and laptops, which included around nine million messages. This is the equivalent to 1,664 hours of footage and is one of the biggest cases the Met’s digital forensics lab has ever dealt with.
Met officers spent months trawling through messages to understand Zou’s pattern of offending, scrupulously translating them into English from Simplified Chinese.
The appeal
Following Zou’s conviction, investigators shared that they believed Zou’s offending was much wider than the eleven rapes he was convicted of. They made a direct appeal to unidentified victim-survivors to come forward and seek specialist support.
Securing justice for the victim-survivors of Zou and putting him behind bars has been at the forefront of detective’s minds since the start of the investigation. To secure a conviction through a fair trial, officers made the decision not to appeal for further victim-survivors ahead of conviction. Sharing specific information relating to his offending may have caused the case to collapse, leaving Zou to offend again. By appealing post-conviction, the Met was able to share the fullest details to support potential victim-survivors coming forward.
Since the appeal in March 2025, 24 women have made reports to the police. These continue to be investigated thoroughly by a dedicated team of officers. Following the sentencing hearing, the team will continue to liaise with the Crown Prosecution Services around potential future charges.
Detectives continue to keep an open mind about the identities of unidentified victim-survivors but have been keen to speak to women from the Chinese student community – they may have been living in London between 2019-2024 or met Zou while he was living in China.
So far, investigators have not received any reports from women who met Zou while he was living in Belfast but remain in contact with Police Service Northern Ireland. They continue to encourage any current or former Northern Ireland residents who have concerns to come forward and speak to officers.
Saira Pike, of the Crown Prosecution Service, said: “Zou is a serial rapist and a danger to women. His life sentence reflects the heinous acts and harm he caused to women and the danger he posed to society.
“We have always been determined to seek justice for both the unidentified and identified victims in this case. We used an evidence-led approach that relied on the video recordings of Zou to ensure this dangerous predator faced justice.
“The prosecution team worked with the police for over a year to pick apart an unprecedented amount of footage and web chats showing his meticulous planning and the horrifying execution of his crimes.
“Following the police appeal, we will continue to review and consider any further charges to ensure that he is held accountable and seek justice for all victims.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to once again express my heartfelt thanks to the courageous women who came forward to report Zou’s horrific crimes. They have been incredibly strong and brave – there is no doubt that their evidence helped us to secure his conviction, and the life sentence handed to him today.”
How to contact the police and independent support agencies:
Reports relating to Zhenhao Zou can be made online via the Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP): https://mipp.police.uk/operation/01MPS25X38-PO1 . The MIPP is also available in Simplified Chinese https://mipp.police.uk/operation/01MPS25X38-PO2, so it is as accessible as possible for potential victim-survivors.
If you wish to speak to Met detectives or make a report relating to Zou, you can also contact police via email on survivors@met.police.uk
You can also make a report to police by calling 101 from within the UK, quoting reference 2904/04FEB25.
If you live in England or Wales and have been affected by this case and would like to seek support from specialist agencies, please contact the independent charity Rape Crisis via their 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line or call them on 0808 500 2222. Specially trained staff are there to listen, answer questions and offer emotional support.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
NEW YORK, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Blue Square X, a leader in immersive visual storytelling and experiential technology, proudly announces the grand opening of its second Experience Center and Showroom, at 1 Penn Plaza in the heart of New York City. Following the success of its Miami debut, the new location offers a bold destination where digital display innovation meets architecture, content, and motion.
Purpose-built to inspire collaboration and showcase what’s next in experiential design, the NYC Experience Center immerses visitors in large-format LED environments, interactive displays, and bespoke 3D content demonstrating how digital technology can transform physical spaces into unforgettable experiences.
“The New York Experience Center is where big ideas come to life,” said Yitzy Shapiro, Chief Operating Officer of Blue Square X. “It’s more than a showroom it’s a space where visionaries across industries can experience how immersive storytelling and smart tech elevate engagement, spark emotion, and create connection.”
To mark the launch, Blue Square X will host a grand opening event on Monday, June 30, 2025, from 1 PM to 5 PM. Attendees will enjoy live demonstrations, showroom tours, curated sips and bites, and a series of thought-provoking panel discussions led by experts from across the AV and creative industries:
“We created this space to connect the dots between technology, content, and physical design,” said Chanan Averbuch, Director of Innovation at Blue Square X. “By bringing industry leaders together for hands-on experiences and real conversations, we’re helping push the boundaries of what’s possible in physical spaces powered by digital innovation.”
The NYC Experience Center serves as a playground for developers, designers, integrators, and creative professionals looking to explore and implement forward-thinking display solutions across real estate, retail, entertainment, hospitality, and beyond.
Space is limited. Register here to attend and receive a VIP swag bag for early registrants.
About Blue Square X
Blue Square X is a digital experience innovation company that transforms imagination into reality by fusing powerful storytelling, art, cutting-edge technology, and architecture. With operations in New York and Miami, they specialize in crafting captivating and immersive visual experiences across a wide range of industries. Blue Square X’s focus on cutting-edge technology and innovation drives business growth and enhances customer experiences.
Stay up to date with Blue Square X on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.
Media Contacts:
Shari Sentlowitz
Director of Communications and Marketing
Blue Square X
201-951-2734
Shari@bluesqx.com
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/56571de4-c873-4c6b-865c-228223172524
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
OTTAWA, Ontario, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CIRA is proud to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of its Internet Performance Test (IPT), marking a significant milestone in the journey towards building a more equitable and accessible internet across Canada. Since the first test was captured in the spring of 2015, Canadians have run over 1.7 million tests, leveraging the tool and its crowd-sourced approach to better understand their connection. The platform allows local governments, advocates and researchers to track national progress toward closing the digital divide.
Over the years, the data collected through IPT has provided insight into how the internet is evolving across Canada. In its inaugural year, the national median download speed was just over 11 Mbps, with an upload speed of 2.4 Mbps. Fast forward to last year, the national median speeds soared to 92 Mbps download and 27 Mbps upload, showcasing incredible progress.
This milestone coincides with the launch of new CRTC hearings that will investigate how to improve the shopping experience for consumers to ensure they get the speed and quality they pay for.
Key insights
Executive quote
“Ten years of the IPT marks a major milestone in Canada’s connectivity journey. Thanks to community partnerships, we’ve built a powerful tool for change, but the digital divide persists. More than ever, we must keep investing, collaborating and pushing forward to ensure fast, reliable internet is a reality for everyone, no matter where they live.” — Charles Noir, Vice-president, Community Investment, Policy & Advocacy, CIRA
New features
To mark this anniversary, CIRA is rolling out a series of powerful new features designed to enhance user experience and deliver even deeper insights:
Resources
About CIRA
CIRA is the national not-for-profit best known for managing the .CA domain on behalf of all Canadians. As a leader in Canada’s internet ecosystem, CIRA offers a wide range of products, programs and services designed to make the internet a secure and accessible space for all. CIRA advocates for Canada on both national and international stages to support its goal of building a trusted internet for Canadians by helping shape the future of the internet.
About Net Good by CIRA and the Internet Performance Test
Net Good by CIRA supports communities, projects and policies that make the internet better for all Canadians including CIRA’s Internet Performance Test (IPT). The IPT platform offers advanced and detailed diagnostic data enabling communities, researchers, and decision-makers to better understand and improve internet access in Canada. Each year, CIRA proudly funds its Net Good program from the revenue generated through .CA domains.
Media contact
Delphine Avomo Evouna
613.315.1458
delphine.avomoevouna@cira.ca
Source: ASEAN
Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, this evening delivered Opening Remarks at the Pre-Event Dinner of the 21st ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Science, Technology and Innovation (AMMSTI-21), where he reaffirmed the critical role of AMMSTI in guiding ASEAN’s STI progress over nearly five decades. SG Dr. Kao also highlighted the ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future, calling for inclusive innovation, digital transformation, and global partnership, all of which are core to AMMSTI’s agenda moving forward.
Download the full opening remarks here.
The post Secretary-General of ASEAN delivers Opening Remarks at the Pre-Event Dinner of AMMSTI-21, in Jakarta appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.
Source: City of Derby
One of Derby City Centre’s key routes has completed a major overhaul, connecting key city centre sites like Becketwell Live, The Condor apartment complex and Derby Market Hall.
The transport improvements – which will enhance appearance, improve air quality, and encourage more sustainable journeys – concluded with the resurfacing of Corporation Street, Victoria Street and Albert Street
Among the improvements are wider footpaths and a new segregated cycle lane, making it much easier for residents and visitors to choose low-emission, active travel options to move through the heart of the city centre.
Improved bus bays, coupled with the segregated cycle lane and a permanent one-way system will allow for improved traffic flow and lower emissions, benefitting the health of visitors and residents alike. Bus users will also benefit from new street lighting around bus stops, making them a safer, more comfortable place to wait.
New living roof bus shelters will be installed, making the area more visually appealing and providing food sources and habitats for a wide variety of pollinating insects.
On top of the green bus shelters, the area will also benefit from an extensive greening programme, with new planters being installed to give a fresh, vibrant feel to this vital city centre route. The public realm enhancements will also complement the proposed improvements on Osnabruck Square.
A number of benches have been incorporated into these new planters, giving visitors a place to sit and enjoy a greener city centre.
The completion of this scheme also marks the end of Transforming Cities programme in Derby, after Derby and Nottingham City Councils secured £161m from the Government’s Transforming Cities Fund. This project has seen improvements made to local transport infrastructure around the city. improving sustainable transport, supporting growth and encouraging more low carbon journeys.
Councillor Carmel Swan, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Transport and Sustainability, said:
I’m delighted that work on Corporation Street, Victoria Street and Albert Street is now complete. This has been a very visible scheme for the city and now people will be able to see the benefits.
A vital element of the Transforming Cities schemes, is creating an environment where we can make the city centre a healthier place for our communities to live, work and enjoy.
We can also now celebrate the completion of the Transforming Cities programme, which has delivered infrastructure improvements across the city. I’m proud of all that we have achieved throughout this project, but rest assured we will continue to champion sustainable and active travel as we continue to deliver a greener Derby.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3
Acting Ambassador Deirdre Brown delivers a joint statement marking the 2025 International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict.
Thank you, Madam Chair.
I am delivering this statement on behalf of Canada, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, Ukraine and my own country the United Kingdom.
Today, on 19 June, we mark the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict. We pay tribute to victims, survivors and those around the world who dedicate their lives to ending conflict-related sexual violence.
Madam Chair, the global scale and trajectory of conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) cases in recent years is deeply concerning. In the OSCE region, we have continued to see evidence of conflict-related sexual violence committed by Russian forces against Ukrainian civilians and prisoners of war, indicating its potential use as a tactic of war. This has been documented by successive Moscow Mechanism reports, ODIHR Interim Reports and other independent monitoring.
It is vital that we, the international community, take effective action to end impunity for conflict-related sexual violence. Sexual violence in all forms must stop, all perpetrators must be held accountable, and survivors must be supported.
The UN Security Council’s resolutions on prevention and response to CRSV are important mechanisms in this regard. Multilateral cooperation and international initiatives such as the International Alliance on Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict and the OSCE’s mandated work on prevention and accountability for Sexual and Gender-Based Violence in Armed Conflict highlight the importance of working together towards internationally agreed standards on accountability and support to survivors.
We strongly support the priorities of Ukraine’s 2025 chairpersonship of the International Alliance, and its specific focus on raising awareness of sexual violence in conflict settings, strengthening international support for survivors, and mobilising global efforts towards justice.
It is important that conflict-related sexual violence is tackled as part of wider global action to end all forms of gender-based violence, achieve gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls in all their diversity, implement global Women, Peace and Security commitments, empower women’s rights organisations, and promote and defend comprehensive sexual and reproductive health and rights for all.
Madam Chair, participating States must continue to work together to promote international action to address and prevent conflict-related sexual violence. We must work to ensure that survivor-centred approaches are at the heart of our collective international response, and that survivors including children born of conflict-related sexual violence receive the support and protection they need.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13)
WASHINGTON, DC — Representative Adriano Espaillat(NY-13), Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) issued the following statement condemning the assault against U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) at a press conference held by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem in Los Angeles.
“Today, Sen. Alex Padilla was shoved, tackled, handcuffed and detained while attempting to fulfill his constitutional duties,” said Espaillat.
“That in itself would be a scandal, but the assailants were staff working for Kristi Noem, the secretary of Homeland Security. This escalation is dangerous and unacceptable.
“The Congressional Hispanic Caucus stands with our brother, Alex Padilla, a leader who represents all Californians.
“We demand a full investigation into Padilla’s attackers and call for Secretary Noem’s resignation — it is painfully clear she is not fit to helm this critical agency.”
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Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his fifth term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities and serves as Ranking Member of the Legislative Branch Subcommittee of the committee during the 119th Congress. He is Chairman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC), and serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/.
Media inquiries: Candace Person at Candace.Person@mail.house.gov
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)
SACRAMENTO, CA – Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07), released the following statement on the Israel-Iran conflict.
“I am watching events in Iran and Israel with deep concern for the lives that are now in harm’s way,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “Iran’s nuclear program and hardline regime are unquestionably a grave danger to Israel’s security and threat to regional stability. Israel is our longtime ally and we must work with all of our regional partners to prevent a wider escalation that will undermine Israel’s security and risk an expansion of this conflict. Now more than ever, we must reject the false choice between strength and diplomacy—America must lead with urgency to de-escalate tensions and forge a durable, diplomatic resolution that ensures lasting peace and prevents nuclear proliferation.”
# # #
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
WASHINGTON, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Virtru, the leader in data-centric security, today announced CEO and Co-Founder John Ackerly has been named a 2025 EY Entrepreneur of the Year Award winner for the Mid-Atlantic region. The prestigious award recognizes Ackerly’s leadership in revolutionizing cybersecurity through innovative, data-centric solutions that enable secure, compliant data sharing across commercial and government markets.
With Ackerly’s direction over the past 12 years, Virtru has grown to serve millions of individuals, over 6,000 customers, including Fortune 500 organizations, the Department of Defense, Intelligence Community and other critical federal and state agencies.
“I’m deeply honored to receive this recognition from EY,” said Ackerly. “This award reflects the incredible dedication of the entire Virtru team who embody our mission: To unlock the power of data by creating a world where it is always under your control, everywhere. While most vendors focus defensively on protecting data within the perimeter, Virtru has pioneered data-centric security that empowers people, enables strategic information-sharing and activates the value of data. It’s our goal to enable organizations — of every size, in every industry — to respect the data they are entrusted with.”
The Entrepreneur Of The Year program, which is in its 40th year of operation, celebrates individuals who boldly disrupt markets through the world’s most ground-breaking companies, revolutionizing industries and making a profound impact on communities. The Mid-Atlantic program specifically honors leaders from Maryland, Virginia and Washington, DC.
Redefining Cybersecurity with Data-Centric Innovation
Powered by the open Trusted Data Format (TDF) standard, Virtru’s Data Security Platform makes it easy for both commercial and government entities to securely share sensitive information. As highlighted earlier this year at RSAC 2025 and at the Gartner Security and Risk Management Summit, data-centric security is much more than locking data down and preventing it from being lost or stolen — it’s about giving people agency over information so they can share it freely with others, without sacrificing security, control, or privacy. Unlike traditional cybersecurity vendors that focus solely on preventing data from leaving organizations, Virtru enables data to flow freely outside the organization while maintaining complete control and security.
Success Across Multiple Markets
Under Ackerly’s leadership, Virtru has continued to innovate and expand from simple integrations like Gmail to develop a true platform enabling a myriad of workflows across diverse environments — from commercial business applications to custom implementations for national defense. Users can exercise the power of Virtru’s Data Security Platform seamlessly with applications like Google Drive, Outlook, SharePoint, and Zendesk, protecting their data without changing workflows and maintaining compliance with ITAR, CMMC, HIPAA, GDPR, and GLBA regulations.
For government environments, Virtru has developed specialized workflows that meet the unique security requirements of public sector agencies. The FedRAMP– and StateRAMP-authorized platform enables secure cross-domain collaboration and mission-critical communications that strengthen security operations.
The Future is Data-Centric
As organizations increasingly recognize that traditional perimeter-based security models are insufficient for today’s collaborative business environment, data-centric security is experiencing unprecedented momentum. Ackerly’s recognition as an EY Entrepreneur of the Year reflects not only his individual leadership but also the broader industry shift toward solutions that enable secure data sharing while maintaining control. This rising tide of data-centric security represents the future of how organizations will simultaneously share and protect their most valuable asset—their data.
For more information about Virtru and its Data Security Platform, please visit www.virtru.com
About Virtru
Virtru empowers organizations to unlock the power of data while maintaining control wherever it’s stored and shared. Trusted by over 6,000 global customers, Virtru provides simple, powerful solutions for Zero Trust data-centric security, underpinned by the Trusted Data Format (TDF). Learn more at Virtru.com.
Press Contact
Nick Michael
nick.michael@virtru.com