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  • MIL-OSI Video: #NoToHate: Countering Islamophobia | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    What is Islamophobia and how do we stop it? Ahmed Shaheed speaks about countering Islamophobia as part of a new series for the #NoToHate campaign.
    The #NoToHate campaign is a global initiative that aims to counter hate speech and promote tolerance and inclusion. It’s part of a larger UN effort to combat antisemitism and Islamophobia, racism, discrimination, and intolerance, focusing on preventing human rights violations and promoting peace and equality.

    The campaign is in line with the United Nations Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech.

    The International Day for Countering Hate Speech is 18 June.

    https://www.un.org/en/hate-speech

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ld4V7Mqz03Y

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UN Chief on Fallen UN Staff | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Remarks to the press by António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, on fallen UN staff.

    “This morning, the United Nations family will come together to pay tribute to 168 of our colleagues who lost their lives in 2024.

    It is always an intimate ceremony, shared with families of the fallen.

    But I believe this occasion also calls for a more public reflection.

    The women and men we honour today were not just names on a list.

    They were extraordinary individuals — each one a story of courage, compassion, and service.

    They were driven by the pursuit of peace.

    By the urgency to ease human suffering.

    And by the conviction that every person, everywhere, deserves dignity and protection.

    This past year has been especially devastating in Gaza.

    Today’s ceremony includes recognition of 126 of our colleagues killed there — 125 of them serving with UNRWA.

    More than one in every 50 UNRWA staff in Gaza has been killed in this atrocious conflict.

    This is the highest staff death toll in United Nations history.

    Some were killed delivering life-saving aid; others alongside their families; others while
    shielding the vulnerable.

    The sacrifice of all 168 of our fallen colleagues everywhere — humanitarians, peacekeepers, peacemakers — is a tragedy.

    It is also a reminder of the responsibility carried by every UN staff member, every single day.

    And that’s important for all the world to see.

    Because as we mourn those lost, we must also recognize the living — the thousands of UN personnel who serve around the world today carrying out the missions entrusted to them by the countries that make up these United Nations.

    They do not seek recognition.

    They seek to make a difference.

    When conflict erupts, they work for peace.

    When violence and disaster strike, they deliver life-saving aid.

    When rights are violated, they speak out.

    To our staff still serving in crisis zones across the globe, I say:

    Your courage humbles us.

    Your resilience inspires us.

    And to the world, I say:

    We will not grow numb to suffering.

    We will not accept the killing of UN personnel.

    We will not accept the killing of humanitarians, journalists, medical workers, or civilians as the new normal anywhere and under any circumstances.

    There must be no room for impunity.

    Today, I salute every member of the UN family.

    It is the honour of a lifetime to serve alongside them.

    I know these are challenging times for international cooperation.

    It may be fashionable in some quarters to dismiss multilateralism.

    Financial contributions may be in doubt – the dedication of our staff is not.

    And in a world where cooperation is under strain – and our challenges are more inter-connected than ever — we must remember the example set by our fallen colleagues — and the work being done every day by those who carry their legacy forward.

    And that’s why I re-affirm:

    We will not waver in our principles.

    We will not abandon our values.

    And we will never, ever give up.

    Thank you”.

    Q&A session transcript: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/sg/press-encounter/2025-06-05/secretary-generals-press-encounter-fallen-un-personnel

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hwJJ5g99TGE

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: More than 250 million people speak it – but do you know what «авось» means? | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Russian Language Day is celebrated at the United Nations on 6 June – the birthday of Alexander Pushkin, widely regarded as the father of modern Russian literature.

    Join us in marking the day with a special video to discover uniquely untranslatable Russian words!

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BxLERQmBf-A

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: #ICE acting director demands that politicians “stop putting my people in danger”

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    ICE acting director demands that politicians “stop putting my people in danger” with rhetoric to rile up activists.

    “These are real people with real families you’re hurting with your ridiculous rhetoric and inflammatory comments, and it’s time to remember that.”

    #shorts #shortsfeed #shortvideo

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ioFqj7QOtl8

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Introduces Bipartisan Bills to Expand Access to Palliative Care, Hospice Care

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen, co-founder and co-chair of the bipartisan Senate Comprehensive Care Caucus, announced the introduction of a pair of bipartisan bills to expand access to palliative and hospice care. The Expanding Access to Palliative Care Act with Senators Barrasso (R-WY), Baldwin (D-WI), and Fischer (R-NE) would establish a demonstration project through Medicare to expand access to palliative care at the time of diagnosis of serious illness or injury. The Improving Access to Transfusion Care for Hospice Patients Act with Senators Barrasso (R-WY) and Baldwin (D-WI) would carve out payment for transfusion services within the Medicare hospice benefit, allowing for separate billing to Medicare for transfusions. This would improve access to hospice care for patients who rely on transfusion care to maintain quality of life.
    “Having stepped away from my career to take care of my aging parents and in-laws, I know just how important it is that families have access to high-quality palliative and hospice care for their loved ones,” said Senator Rosen. “I’m glad to work across party lines to introduce these bipartisan bills and help make palliative care more accessible and available.”
    “As a doctor, I have seen firsthand how important palliative care is for the comfort of patients and their families,” said Senator Barrasso. “Making sure patients have access to this care as soon as possible is critical to their quality of life. Our bipartisan bill ensures patients in Wyoming and across the country receive this care when they need it most.”
    “Having been by my grandmother’s side as she aged and served as her caretaker, this issue is deeply personal for me,” said Senator Baldwin. “I know the challenges both patients and those who are providing this specialized care face, and we need to better support both of them. I am proud to work with Democrats and Republicans to expand and improve palliative care for American families because everyone deserves to know that if they need it, this kind of care is within reach.”
    “The reintroduction of the Expanding Access to Palliative Care Act is a meaningful step toward ensuring patients and families can receive high-quality care when and where they need it. Building on the success of the Medicare Care Choices Model, we believe a concurrent care approach within hospice should be developed for national dissemination,” said Dr. Steve Landers, CEO of the National Alliance for Care at Home. “We also appreciate Senator Rosen’s leadership on the Improving Access to Transfusion Care for Hospice Patients Act, which addresses a key access challenge. The Alliance is proud to support these efforts to expand person-centered, community-based care.”
    “The American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine (AAHPM) has long championed a Medicare payment model designed to close the gaps in care for individuals with serious illness, as well as their families and caregivers. This model aims to support palliative care teams of all sizes, structures, and regions in delivering high-quality, patient-centered care,” said Kristina Newport, MD FAAHPM, HMDC, AAHPM Chief Medical Officer. “We are proud to endorse the bipartisan Expanding Access to Palliative Care Act, which proposes testing a community-based palliative care model. We commend Senators Rosen, Barrasso, Baldwin, and Fischer—co-chairs of the Senate Comprehensive Care Caucus—for their leadership in introducing this vital legislation and their dedication to expanding access to palliative care. This effort will help align treatments with patients’ unique goals and preferences, enabling more care to be delivered in the settings where patients live.”
    “We commend Sens. Rosen, Barrasso, and Baldwin for the introduction of the Improving Access to Transfusion Care for Hospice Patients Act,” said Belinda R. Avalos, MD, president of the American Society of Hematology. “This bill will support critical access to transfusions for patients with blood cancers in hospice and will make great strides in guaranteeing comprehensive palliative care.” 
    “The Association for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies applauds Senators Rosen, Barrasso, and Baldwin for reintroducing the Improving Access to Transfusion Care for Hospice Patients Act,” said Debra BenAvram, FASAE, CAE, AAB CEO. “The Association is committed to advancing patients’ access to safe blood transfusions throughout the continuum of care, and this bill addresses an important barrier for patients receiving care under the Medicare hospice benefit.”
    “Blood transfusions are a proven palliative measure that can significantly enhance the quality of life for many patients,” said Kate Fry, CEO of America’s Blood Centers. “This legislation bridges a gap in care, ensuring patients can receive transfusions while also benefiting from the holistic support provided under the Medicare hospice benefit. It’s a compassionate step forward in patient-centered care that recognizes the complex needs of those navigating serious illnesses.”
    Senator Rosen has been working to increase access to affordable, high-quality health care for Nevada’s seniors. Last month, she introduced the Lowering Costs For Caregivers Act to lower costs for caregivers and help families afford medical expenses. Senator Rosen has also introduced the Physicians for Underserved Areas Act and the Train More Nurses Act to address the shortages of medical professionals in Nevada that are reducing access to care and driving up costs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine Statement on Trump Administration’s Revival of Travel Ban Policy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) issued the following statement regarding President Donald Trump’s revival of his travel ban policy:

    “Trump has said again that the latest travel ban is about targeting Muslims. So I’ll repeat what I said the last time he implemented this disgusting policy: Religious freedom is a Virginia value through and through, and it’s the First Amendment to the Constitution for good reason. Thomas Jefferson himself said we do not prefer or punish people in this country because of how they worship or whether or not they choose to worship. We forced Trump to explain himself in court last time, and we’ll do it again.”

    During President Trump’s first term, Kaine was outspoken against President Trump’s discriminatory travel bans. Kaine is a cosponsor of the National Origin-Based Antidiscrimination for Nonimmigrants Act (NO BAN Act), legislation to clarify and strengthen the Immigrant and Nationality Act to ensure that the nondiscrimination provision includes protection from religious discrimination and applies to all individuals traveling to the U.S.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner & Kaine Condemn Provisions in GOP Tax Plan that would Eliminate Gun Safety Measures

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) issued the following statement condemning provisions in the Republican tax plan that would weaken gun safety measures that have been in place since 1934 by eliminating registration and ownership requirements for gun silencers under the National Firearms Act, increasing danger for law enforcement officers while saving gun manufacturers millions in unpaid manufacturer taxes:

    “The Republican tax plan being pushed through Congress not only cuts critical services Virginians rely on in order to give huge tax breaks to billionaires, but it also makes our communities less safe by weakening gun safety measures on silencers. Part of the reason that these registration and ownership requirements exist is because silencers, like the one that was used in the Virginia Beach mass shooting, make it harder for law enforcement to locate and respond to an active shooter. Americans deserve to feel safe in their communities, and we will oppose this disastrous bill when it comes to the Senate floor.”

    A gun silencer, also known as a suppressor, is attached to the barrel of a firearm in order to curb its sound, muzzle flash, and kickback. A silencer poses great danger to the public and makes it more difficult for law enforcement officers to detect the location of and respond to an active shooter. A silencer also diminishes the effectiveness of gunshot detection technology that relies on audio sensors to record the sound, time, and location of loud noises. A gun silencer was used in the Virginia Beach mass shooting on May 31, 2019. Law enforcement has historically supported silencer regulations because silencers make it harder, if not impossible, to figure out where the shooter is in an active shooter situation.

    Warner and Kaine have been sounding the alarm about the effects of the GOP plan on Virginia families if Republicans in Congress continue to insist on gutting vital programs in order to pay for tax breaks for the richest Americans. The senators have noted that the GOP bill would strip health insurance from more than 262,000 Virginians, cut SNAP benefits for more than 204,000 people in Virginia, raise energy costs for Virginia households, and jeopardize more than 20,000 Virginia jobs. The bill would also raise the deficit by $3.8 trillion, eliminate a program allowing Americans to file federal taxes for free, and raise taxes on minimum-wage workers while giving the richest 0.1% a $188,000 tax cut.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New overdose prevention service standards will strengthen safety

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    New minimum standards for overdose prevention services are being introduced to enhance safety, improve consistency, and ensure greater oversight for clients, staff delivering life-saving services and members of the community.

    “Every life lost to the toxic-drug crisis is someone’s brother, sister, parent, or child, and every loss is a tragedy we cannot afford to ignore. Although we have made progress, families and communities are still deeply affected by the toxic-drug crisis, and it’s essential that we keep working to create a seamless, comprehensive system of care,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. “Overdose prevention services are critical in saving thousands of lives, connecting people to treatment and reducing public drug use.”

    On June 5, 2025, the Province released the new minimum service standards for overdose prevention services to strengthen safety and support for clients, staff and communities. The standards provide a framework for better integration of overdose prevention services into communities focusing on quality, accessibility and cultural safety. Many overdose prevention services already meet and exceed these minimum standards.

    “When the episodic overdose prevention service was first introduced to the emergency department, staff were unsure what to expect, but soon after, we realized this was a great addition,” said Sarah Hyatt, nurse co-ordinator, emergency department, Surrey Memorial Hospital. “The team provides support and builds trusting relationships we were not previously able to establish. These relationships have led patients to access supports, go into treatment, find safe housing and avoid overdoses. Along with these benefits, our staff have gained exponential knowledge about substance use and how we can best support patients.”

    Overdose prevention services are harm-reduction services that provide the observed consumption of substances, ensuring rapid response to adverse events, such as toxic drug poisoning. Since January 2017, there have been more than 5.6 million visits to overdose prevention services or supervised consumption sites. Since 2019, these services are estimated to have prevented more than 12,400 overdose deaths. Overdose prevention services also serve as a first point of entry for many people into the substance-use system of care.

    “The impact of having on-site overdose prevention services at St. Paul’s Hospital has been profound,” said Dr. Andrea Ryan, program director, Interdisciplinary Substance Use Program, Providence Health Care. “We have significantly reduced harms from overdoses for patients and visitors of the hospital. The data clearly illustrates the positive impact on our critical care response team, reducing calls for overdose drastically since implementation. The overdose prevention services have not only improved safety for our patients, but also for our staff across the institution. The positive impacts cannot be overstated.”

    Alongside the new standards, regional health authorities and Providence Health Care have been given directions on the provincial consultation and approval requirements for creating new overdose prevention services at hospital sites. There are nine overdose prevention services at hospitals, and a total of 58 overdose prevention services or supervised consumption sites around the province. The use of illicit drugs continues to be prohibited outside of overdose prevention services in hospitals and in public spaces.

    All overdose prevention services provide a controlled and safer alternative to unsupervised substance use in public, helping reduce the risk of second-hand exposures. Overdose prevention services also keep people who use unregulated drugs safer by fostering connections to care and treatment, promoting safer substance-use practices and responding quickly to adverse events, such as overdoses.

    Overdose prevention services are one part of the government’s broader response to the toxic-drug crisis, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the entire continuum of mental-health and substance-use care, ensuring people can access the right supports for them.

    Quotes:

    Dr. Nel Wieman, chief medical officer, First Nations Health Authority –

    “Our data shows that between 2018 and 2022, at least 1,024 potential deaths among First Nations people who used substances were averted due to evidence-informed, harm-reduction efforts across B.C. First Nations people and communities continue to be disproportionally impacted by the toxic-drug public health emergency. The ministry’s efforts to strengthen and expand culturally safe access to overdose prevention services will save lives. It’s also important that we recognize and support front-line staff in harm reduction and education for their dedication to this good work.”

    Ian Haynes, peer support worker, St. Paul’s Hospital overdose prevention services –

    “In the past, knowing that there was no safe place to manage substance use on site, one would have to hide when using drugs. Overdose prevention services reopen the doors to these folks, knowing they can stay in hospital and get the medical care they need, while managing the pain from withdrawal. This is meeting the needs of our community, providing a safe haven for the people who had every option taken away, including safe health care.”

    Quick Facts:

    • Supervised consumption sites (SCS) are facilities that have been exempted by Health Canada under Section 56.1 of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. 
    • In B.C., overdose prevention services operate subsequent to provincial Ministerial Order 488/2016, which mandates regional health boards and BC Emergency Health Services establish overdose prevention services sites wherever there is a need during the toxic-drug public-health emergency. 
    • While an SCS requires operators to seek an exemption from federal drug laws, the same process is not required to establish overdose prevention services.

    Learn More:

    To read the overdose prevention services minimum service standards, visit: 
    https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/overdose-awareness/ops_mss_final.pdf

    To find mental-health and substance-use supports in B.C., visit: https://helpstartshere.gov.bc.ca/

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Nadler Statement on the Incident at my District Office

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jerrold Nadler (10th District of New York)

    Rep. Nadler Statement on the Incident at my District Office

    Washington, May 31, 2025

    President Trump and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) are sowing chaos in our communities, using intimidation tactics against both citizens and non-citizens in a reckless and dangerous manner. In the most recent and deeply troubling incident, DHS agents forcefully entered my Congressional office and handcuffed a member of my staff.

    From the outset, my number one concern was for the safety of my staff. While no arrests were made and the situation was quickly deescalated, I am alarmed by the aggressive and heavy-handed tactics DHS is employing in New York City and across the country.

    The decision to enter a Congressional office and detain a staff member demonstrates a deeply troubling disregard for proper legal boundaries. If this can happen in a Member of Congress’s office, it can happen to anyone-and it is happening.

    I call on President Trump and DHS to halt the use of these dangerous tactics and to abandon use of the expedited removal process which denies due process to immigrants and citizens alike. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pressley, Democratic Women’s Caucus, Mamas’ Caucus, Dads Caucus Sound Alarm on Secretary Kennedy Launching Baby Formula Review at a Gutted HHS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

    Lawmakers Demand FDA Halt “Operation Stork Speed” Until HHS Employees Are Rehired and Proper Guardrails in Place

    Text of Letter

    WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Co-Chair of the Democratic Women’s Caucus (DWC) Reproductive Health Care Task Force, alongside DWC member Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Mamas’ Caucus Chair Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), and Dads Caucus Chair Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) led 21 Democratic Caucus members in sounding the alarm over the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) launch of Operation Stork Speed — an initiative the agency claims will evaluate the safety of nutrients and ingredients found in infant formula.

    In their letter to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, the lawmakers raise concerns over the safety and feasibility of Operation Stork Speed while laying off tens of thousands of HHS employees — including 3,500 at the FDA, many of whom oversee infant formula and nutrition. They also demand the FDA halt this initiative until HHS employees are rehired and until there are proper guardrails to conduct a comprehensive, evidence-based review.  

    “The infant formula supply chain is fragile, and even a small disruption can have devastating consequences. No parent or guardian should struggle to feed their child due to failed safety standards, corporate greed or supply chain failures. Ensuring safe, affordable, and accessible formula is a matter of public health, economic justice, and basic dignity for families—especially women who are often primary caregivers,” wrote the lawmakers.

    “From gutting staff responsible for scientific research to perpetuating anti-vaccine theories, you have repeatedly undermined scientific research. This, coupled with President Trump’s arbitrary mandate for federal agencies to repeal 10 regulations for every new rule, serves to further jeopardize the health and safety of families,” continued the lawmakers.

    The Members also call on the agency to ensure infant formula is safe, accessible and affordable for all women and babies who need it in the face of ongoing regulatory reversals and staff reduction. 

    “Ensuring safe, affordable, and accessible formula is a matter of public health, economic justice, and basic dignity for families—especially women who are often primary caregivers. We ask for your swift response to our questions regarding how you will ensure infant formula is safe, accessible and affordable for all women and babies who need it in the face of ongoing regulatory reversals and staff reduction,” concluded the lawmakers.

    In addition to letter leads Ayanna Pressley, Brittany Pettersen, Rashida Tlaib, and Jimmy Gomez, the letter was signed by Reps. Teresa Leger Fernandez, Deborah Ross, Nikema Williams, Jasmine Crockett, Andrea Salinas, LaMonica McIver, Pramila Jayapal, Nydia Velázquez, Julie Johnson, Kelly Morrison, Summer Lee, Dan Goldman, Eric Swalwell, April McClain Delaney, Betty McCollum, Delia Ramirez, Suzanne Bonamici, Laura Friedman, Veronica Escobar, Yvette Clarke, and Jan Schakowsky.

    Text of the letter can be found here.

    Rep. Pressley has long advocated for safe, accessible, and affordable baby formula.

    In May 2022, Rep. Pressley, along with Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16) and Congresswomen Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and Grace Meng (NY-06), urged President Biden to use all applicable executive authorities to end the baby formula shortage.

    Through her efforts on the House Committee on Oversight and Reform, the Committee had previously requested information from the nation’s largest formula manufacturers on their efforts to address the shortage of infant formula that is impacting families across the United States.

    In May 2022, Rep. Pressley, along with Rep. Lori Trahan (MA-03), Assistant Speaker Katherine Clark (MA-05) and the Massachusetts delegation, sent a letter to Abbott Laboratories Chairman and CEO Robert Ford requesting urgent information on the company’s plans to replenish its Similac baby formula in Massachusetts.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government continues to proactively follow up on water quality incidents at Queen’s Hill Estate and Shan Lai Court

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Government continues to proactively follow up on water quality incidents at Queen’s Hill Estate and Shan Lai Court 
    So far, all water samples have complied with the Hong Kong Drinking Water Standards, including the Rapid Toxicity Test (light emitting bacteria) and Carcinogenic Benzo(a) pyrene for testing carcinogens. These two parameters were negative in all the results of the water samples tested. While ensuring that the water quality met standards, the WSD also conducted traceability work and passed 126 samples of materials collected from each block in the estates for the Government Laboratory’s testing on June 3. Preliminary test results indicated that most of the samples consist of bitumen mixed with resin.
     
    Bitumen was commonly used as a protective coating to prevent rust inside steel water pipes around the world in earlier years. It is an inert material and is insoluble in water. According to experts’ views, bitumen will not release materials harmful to human body after mixing with water. In other words, even if drinking water has come into contact with water pipes coated with bitumen, relevant water quality will still comply with the drinking water standards. However, after prolonged use of water pipes, bitumen coating is prone to spalling, which is not durable and affects the clarity of drinking water and the public’s perception. Therefore, bitumen coated steel pipes have been replaced with durable epoxy resin-coated steel pipes for water supply pipes laid after 2005.
     
    As to whether drinking water containing bitumen will affect health, the WSD commissioned an expert consultant in 2020 to conduct an experiment by boiling 10 grams of bitumen in three litres of hot water. The result confirmed that no toxic substances were released. Currently, the sediments (bitumen) in the water samples taken from Queen’s Hill Estate are three-thousandth of the amount used in that experiment (per litre), so members of the public need not worry even if they have consumed drinking water with bitumen.
     
    According to records, the relevant pipes in the Queen’s Hill Estate and Shan Lai Court do not contain bitumen materials. Furthermore, following a similar water quality incident at Queen’s Hill Estate in 2022, the WSD installed screen filters outside the Queen’s Hill Estate in December 2022, which can block substances larger than 0.1 millimeters in diameter. Since then, the WSD has regularly inspected the condition of the filters on a weekly basis. After receiving a report on the water quality incident on May 30, the WSD checked the filters again and confirmed it remained intact, without any damage. Given that the sediments found within the estate exceed 0.1mm, they should not have entered the estate’s water supply system after the filters were installed (i.e. after December 2022). Upon reviewing the information, it was found that there is a section of steel water pipe upstream coated with bitumen on the inner wall. As such, the WSD reckoned that the sediments are likely residual bitumen materials that flowed into the pipes of the Queen’s Hill Estate from the aforementioned steel pipe before December 2022. As for the resin material, based on its color, appearance, and chemical composition, it is likely due to the flaking off of the protective layer of water valves.

    The WSD will continue the investigation based on the above assumptions, and as always, will submit the investigation report of this incident to the Drinking Water Safety Advisory Committee for review.
     
    Currently, the WSD will enhance the flushing of pipes to remove any residual bitumen materials, and strengthen water sampling. Sampling and testing will be conducted daily until no related sediments are found. The valves in the water supply system will also be checked. Any materials that have flaked off will be replaced if necessary. Understanding the public’s concerns regarding this incident, the WSD will continue to arrange temporary water supply through water tanks.
     
    To address the issue, maintenance teams of the HD have responded swiftly by installing additional nine screen filters with a density that can block impurities with a diameter of 0.1 millimetres or larger on the existing facilities in Queens Hill Estate and Shan Lai Court. The HD also continued to install additional filtering facilities with the same density that can block impurities with a diameter of 0.1 millimetres or larger in Queens Hill Estate and Shan Lai Court (seven and six respectively) today (June 5). The works will be completed today. Within a short period of time, the HD has tried its best to have 22 new filtering facilities installed, hoping that by quickly providing an effective, multi-layered protective filtration system, residents can feel more at ease when consuming the water.
     
    To further alleviate public concerns, the WSD will release the test results of water samples on its website every morning.
    Issued at HKT 23:36

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Home and Youth Affairs Bureau held training seminar for members of District Councils (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Home and Youth Affairs Bureau held training seminar for members of District Councils  
    ​Based on the needs of DC members, the HYAB has been arranging different training sessions and visits to assist DC members in discharging their duties, so as to improve the efficacy of district work and serve the people better. The training seminar today focused on how to enhance communications with the media, and to promote the good practices of building management.
     
    ​The Under Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Mr Clarence Leung, attended the training seminar and delivered a speech. He said that under the improved district governance system, the DCs, the District Services and Community Care Teams (Care Teams) and other district organisations and groups worked hand-in-hand in serving the people. District work had to be done with the people at heart for it to be effective and efficient. The HYAB and the Home Affairs Department (HAD) had therefore continued to provide various training for DC members. For example, the HAD had arranged for DC members to attend mediation training in batches starting from May. Mr Leung hoped the relevant training could help DC members better discharge their duties, further improve the efficacy of district governance and thereby building a harmonious community together.
     
    ​​Today’s training seminar had two parts. In the first part, a guest speaker shared with DC members the latest media landscape and skills in engaging with the media. Through strengthening communications with the media, members of the public could better understand DC members’ work under the improved district governance system more effectively through the media, so that DC members could better serve as the bridge between the Government and the people, while telling good stories of the DCs.
     
    ​Before the second part of the training seminar, the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Miss Alice Mak, addressed DC members, saying that the Government had always placed emphasis on district work. She quoted the Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Mr Zhou Ji, that the DCs, “the three district committees” (the Area Committees, the District Fight Crime Committees and the District Fire Safety Committees) and Care Teams are the troika after improvements to district governance, and reminded DC members to strengthen collaboration with “the three district committees” and Care Teams, and address and resolve people’s conflicts at early stages. Miss Mak emphasised that building management was one of the key aspects of district work, and encouraged DC members to be familiar with relevant legislation, so as to provide support and assistance to owners and residents in need and facilitate the smooth operation of building management.
     
    ​Afterwards, in the second part, the guest speaker shared with DC members the relevant information on the Building Management (Amendment) Ordinance 2024 (the Amendment Ordinance), which would come into effect on July 13. As early as December last year, HAD organised two briefing sessions for DC members. In view of the imminent commencement of the Amendment Ordinance, HAD provided training to DC members again on the content and requirements of the Amendment Ordinance, with a view to enabling DC members to provide effective assistance to owners and residents in dealing with building management issues when necessary. The key objectives of the Amendment Ordinance are to enhance the transparency and accountability of the operation of owners’ corporations (OCs), for example, in respect of large-scale maintenance works or high-value procurement, and to provide better protection for members of the management committees (MCs) of OCs. The Amendment Ordinance also includes new provisions relating to the keeping of documents relating to building management and the responsibilities of the MCs in keeping such documents.
    Issued at HKT 23:19

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Missing man in Sheung Shui located

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Missing man in Sheung Shui located 
    Wong Sum-wah, aged 77, went missing after he was last seen in a shopping mall on Choi Yuen Road in the afternoon on June 2. His family then made a report to Police.

    The man was located at the junction of Morrison Street and Des Voeux Road Central in Central tonight (June 5). He sustained no injuries and no suspicious circumstances were detected.
    Issued at HKT 23:18

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 369

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL9

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 369
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    200 PM CDT Thu Jun 5 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Southeast Colorado
    Southwest Kansas

    * Effective this Thursday afternoon and evening from 200 PM until
    900 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A few tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2.5
    inches in diameter likely
    Scattered damaging winds and isolated significant gusts to 75
    mph possible

    SUMMARY…Thunderstorms developing in southeast Colorado will
    continue to intensify through the afternoon while spreading
    generally eastward into southwest Kansas. The more intense storms
    will be capable of producing a few tornadoes and very large hail up
    to 2.5 inches in diameter. Some clustering of storms is expected by
    this evening, with a gradual increasing in the threat for severe
    outflow gusts up to 75 mph.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 80 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 55 miles east northeast of Lamar CO to
    15 miles east of Elkhart KS. For a complete depiction of the watch
    see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU9).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 366…WW 367…WW 368…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 2.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 65 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 29020.

    …Thompson

    SEL9

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 369
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    200 PM CDT Thu Jun 5 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Southeast Colorado
    Southwest Kansas

    * Effective this Thursday afternoon and evening from 200 PM until
    900 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A few tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2.5
    inches in diameter likely
    Scattered damaging winds and isolated significant gusts to 75
    mph possible

    SUMMARY…Thunderstorms developing in southeast Colorado will
    continue to intensify through the afternoon while spreading
    generally eastward into southwest Kansas. The more intense storms
    will be capable of producing a few tornadoes and very large hail up
    to 2.5 inches in diameter. Some clustering of storms is expected by
    this evening, with a gradual increasing in the threat for severe
    outflow gusts up to 75 mph.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 80 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 55 miles east northeast of Lamar CO to
    15 miles east of Elkhart KS. For a complete depiction of the watch
    see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU9).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 366…WW 367…WW 368…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 2.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 65 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 29020.

    …Thompson

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW9
    WW 369 TORNADO CO KS 051900Z – 060200Z
    AXIS..80 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    55ENE LAA/LAMAR CO/ – 15E EHA/ELKHART KS/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 70NM E/W /46ENE LAA – 32W LBL/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..65 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 29020.

    LAT…LON 38360027 36990018 36990308 38360322

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU9.

    Watch 369 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (50%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low (20%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (50%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Mod (40%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (60%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (90%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – World Food Safety Day: Prevent, detect and manage foodborne risks – 05-06-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    World Health Organization data reveal that unsafe food containing harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites or chemical substances can cause more than 200 different diseases, ranging from diarrhoea to cancers. In the EU, national authorities are responsible for conducting official controls along the agri-food chain, while the European Commission oversees the implementation and enforcement of EU legislation on food and feed safety.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – Updating the EU’s Nationally Determined Contribution to the Paris Agreement – 05-06-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU needs to update its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to the Paris Agreement by September 2025. This extended deadline allows the United Nations climate secretariat enough time to assess the collective effect of all national climate plans, relative to the targets under the Paris Agreement, before the start of the COP30 climate change conference in Belém, Brazil, in November 2025. The EU’s NDC is formally adopted by the Council of the EU. The third NDC will have a time horizon of 2035, and is therefore linked with the EU climate target for 2040, which is to be adopted as an amendment to the European Climate Law under the Ordinary Legislative Procedure.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – PETI Fact-finding visit to Spain 26-28 May 2025 on labour rights of police officers in the EU – 05-06-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Petition No. 1407/2023, submitted by David Gutierrez Prieto on behalf of the Confederacion Espanola de Policia (CEP), led the PETI Committee to organise a fact-finding visit to Spain, in the towns of Algeciras and Barbate. The petition raises concerns about the fundamental and labour rights of police officers in Spain and in the EU and calls for police work to be recognised as a risk profession across Member States.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – International carbon credits and EU climate targets – 05-06-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU fights global climate change through domestic action and international cooperation, and has an extensive toolbox to deliver on its domestic climate targets. In addition, the EU has signed the Paris Agreement, Article 6 of which includes tools for international cooperation. This note explains the historic and potential role of international carbon credits in the EU, in light of the recent debate.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Balanced development clause for islands and mountain areas – E-002132/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002132/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Georgios Aftias (PPE)

    The European Union’s borders encompass 4 381 376 square kilometres, from the Aegean to Finland, Ireland, Portugal and Cyprus, with 65 992 kilometres of coastline. Islands are Europe’s natural borders. Covering an enormous area, they need immediate and balanced development as they tackle the effects of climate change, the demographic and housing crisis and illegal migration with limited access to new technologies and means of transport. Decisions must be coordinated and targeted. This makes it essential that we act immediately with the regions to ensure the balanced development of islands and mountainous areas, given that needs are very high.

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

    • 1.Will there be a mandatory provision for islands and mountain areas in the next Multiannual Financial Framework?
    • 2.Will it act effectively to ensure that mountainous and island regions have adequate funding for goods and services?
    • 3.By means of which financial instruments is it helping to strengthen the economic activities of these regions?

    Submitted: 28.5.2025

    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Notification by the Netherlands of a ban on the use of electric livestock prods on animals in livestock farming – E-002138/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002138/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Bert-Jan Ruissen (ECR)

    On 4 February 2025, the Dutch Government notified the Commission of its intention to ban the use of electric livestock prods on animals in livestock farming (notification number 2025/0066/NL). Due to EU legislation, the ban cannot apply in slaughterhouses (Regulation (EC) 1099/2009), in international transport (Regulation (EC) 1/2005) or with regard to veterinary use. This creates an unlevel playing field and confusion.

    In accordance with the notification procedure under Directive (EU) 2015/1535, the Commission may block this proposed ban for a period of 12 to 18 months if harmonisation at EU level in the policy area concerned is planned or already under way. As the Animal Transport Regulation is currently being revised (2023/0488/COD), that is indeed the case.

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to block the proposed ban on the ground that, since the Animal Transport Regulation is being revised, EU harmonisation in the same policy area is already under way?
    • 2.Does the Commission agree that, were this proposed ban to come into force, there would be significant distortion of the EU internal market?
    • 3.Is the Commission prepared to respond to the submissions made by various stakeholders in connection with the notification?

    Submitted: 28.5.2025

    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Lifting of sanctions against Syria – E-002135/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002135/2025
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Sander Smit (PPE), Bert-Jan Ruissen (ECR)

    On 20 May 2025, the Council of the European Union[1] decided, surely enough, to lift the economic sanctions against Syria (under the new regime), even though mass-scale massacres by Islamist-affiliated units against the Alawite and Druze minorities have taken place in recent months.

    • 1.What specific criteria and conditions were used to decide to lift the economic sanctions against Syria, and how was it ensured that this decision was not taken prematurely, given the ongoing political and humanitarian challenges in the country?
    • 2.How does the lifting of these sanctions stand in relation to the Union’s broader strategic objectives in the region, in particular with regard to stability, human rights – including rights of minorities (such as Christians, Alawites and Druze) – and prevention of a new refugee crisis?
    • 3.To what extent have the Council and Commission consulted with international partners to ensure that this move does not lead to unwanted geopolitical tensions or a worsening of the humanitarian situation, including by monitoring the situation of historical minorities?

    Submitted: 28.5.2025

    • [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/nl/press/press-releases/2025/05/20/syria-council-statement-on-the-lifting-of-eu-economic-sanctions/
    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Recognition of expenses for demography as investment for budgetary balance – E-002128/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002128/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Paolo Inselvini (ECR), Romana Tomc (PPE), Vasile Dîncu (S&D), Carlo Fidanza (ECR), Mario Mantovani (ECR), Sergio Berlato (ECR), Alessandro Ciriani (ECR), Ioan-Rareş Bogdan (PPE), Nicolas Bay (ECR), Antonella Sberna (ECR), Mariateresa Vivaldini (ECR), Chiara Gemma (ECR), Claudiu-Richard Târziu (ECR), Michele Picaro (ECR), Şerban Dimitrie Sturdza (ECR), Branko Grims (PPE), Rihards Kols (ECR), Raúl de la Hoz Quintano (PPE), Giuseppe Milazzo (ECR), Matej Tonin (PPE), Piotr Müller (ECR), Aurelijus Veryga (ECR), Georgiana Teodorescu (ECR), Kosma Złotowski (ECR), Waldemar Tomaszewski (ECR), Alberico Gambino (ECR), Fernand Kartheiser (ECR), Niels Geuking (PPE), Christophe Gomart (PPE), Nora Junco García (ECR), Diego Solier (ECR), Sunčana Glavak (PPE), Daniele Polato (ECR), Davor Ivo Stier (PPE), Massimiliano Salini (PPE), Karlo Ressler (PPE), Gabriella Gerzsenyi (PPE), Elena Donazzan (ECR), Margarita de la Pisa Carrión (PfE), Andi Cristea (S&D), Loránt Vincze (PPE), Marion Maréchal (ECR)

    The demographic winter represents one of the most urgent challenges for Europe, with severe repercussions across multiple sectors of society: culture, economic growth, fiscal sustainability and pension systems. The Draghi Report predicts that, by 2040, the EU workforce will decrease by nearly 2 million people per year, highlighting the need for structural measures to boost European competitiveness.

    The EU cannot merely adapt passively to the ageing population but must act by placing future generations at the centre of its economic and social policies. Currently, Member States’ expenditures on demographic policies and birth rates are categorised as current expenses and are subject to budget constraints. However, their long-term positive impact on European growth is evident.

    Recognising such expenses as investment in human capital and economic development, also in the light of European fiscal rules, would allow Member States to implement their demographic policies with greater flexibility.

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to recognise Member States’ demographic expenses as investment within the framework of the Stability and Growth Pact?
    • 2.Does it plan to create a directorate-general or a specific unit to work on demographic policies?
    • 3.What initiatives could be considered to reward Member States that invest in structural demographic policies?

    Supporter[1]

    Submitted: 28.5.2025

    • [1] This question is supported by a Member other than the authors: Stefano Cavedagna (ECR)

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Israel’s intention to take full control of the Gaza strip and remove the Palestinian population from the area – EU’s actions and reactions – E-002127/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002127/2025
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Merja Kyllönen (The Left), Brando Benifei (S&D), Li Andersson (The Left), Rudi Kennes (The Left), Giorgos Georgiou (The Left), Irena Joveva (Renew), Kateřina Konečná (NI), Vladimir Prebilič (Verts/ALE), Cecilia Strada (S&D), Maria Ohisalo (Verts/ALE), Thomas Bajada (S&D), Carola Rackete (The Left), Hanna Gedin (The Left), Branislav Ondruš (NI), Jonas Sjöstedt (The Left), Sirpa Pietikäinen (PPE), Nikos Pappas (The Left), Dario Tamburrano (The Left), Maria Zacharia (NI), Estelle Ceulemans (S&D), Friedrich Pürner (NI), Alex Agius Saliba (S&D), Jussi Saramo (The Left), Rima Hassan (The Left), Isabel Serra Sánchez (The Left)

    • 1.How does the Commission intend to respond to the Israeli Government’s announcement regarding the Gaza strip, which involves forced population transfers prohibited under international law?
    • 2.Will the Commission propose new measures – such as sanctions on members of the Israeli Government, the suspension of the arms trade with Israel or the EU‐Israel Association Agreement, or support for the recognition of the State of Palestine – in response to Israel’s violations of international law?
    • 3.How will the Commission ensure that the EU upholds its commitment to human rights and international law in its response to the situation in Gaza?

    Submitted: 27.5.2025

    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Competitive impacts of Regulation EU 2023/1115 on European producers of latex balloons – E-002122/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002122/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Salvatore De Meo (PPE), Marco Falcone (PPE), Giusi Princi (PPE), Massimiliano Salini (PPE), Flavio Tosi (PPE), Stefan Köhler (PPE), Niels Geuking (PPE), Tomáš Kubín (PfE), Olivier Chastel (Renew), Malika Sorel (NI)

    Regulation (EU) 2023/1115[1] imposes traceability, registration and verification obligations on all operators placing on the market raw materials listed in Annex I, including natural rubber latex (customs code 4001), which is used by European producers of latex balloons.

    Although they contain the same raw material (customs code 9503), finished latex balloons are not included in Annex I and are not subject to the same obligations, thus favouring non-EU producers who export these items to Europe without bureaucratic burdens.

    This regulatory disparity distorts competition, placing European producers at a disadvantage, subject to higher costs and obligations, and incentivising the import of finished products from countries not subject to the same environmental standards.

    Article 34 of the Regulation provides for a revision of Annex I, with the possibility of including products made from relevant raw materials, in order to avoid market imbalances and ensure the effectiveness of the standard.

    We ask the Commission:

    • 1.when the impact assessment provided for in Article 34(3) of the Regulation will be available, and whether it will also include finished products, such as latex balloons (CN code 9503), among those subject to the obligations;
    • 2.whether it intends to adopt corrective measures, including through delegated acts, to ensure a level playing field between European and non-European producers?

    Submitted: 27.5.2025

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 31 May 2023 on the making available on the Union market and the export from the Union of certain commodities and products associated with deforestation and forest degradation, OJ L 150, 9.6.2023, p. 206., ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2023/1115/oj.
    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Bulgaria to receive EIB support for decarbonising major site for coal-fired power production

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • EIB’s advisory services to work with Bulgarian government on greening coal-powered Maritsa East Complex
    • Goal is to promote clean energy at site where open-pit mines operate
    • EIB assistance to extend to Bulgarian efforts to boost EU funding

    Bulgaria will receive advisory support from the European Investment Bank (EIB) for greening one of Europe’s largest sites for coal-fired electricity production – the Maritsa East Complex. Both sides today signed an agreement under which the EIB will advise the Bulgarian government as it pursues a plan to decarbonise the Maritsa East Complex, which generates up to 35% of the country’s electricity.

    EIB Advisory will work with the Bulgarian Ministry of Energy to ensure the timely development of priority projects promoting renewable energy at the Maritsa East Complex, which has among the largest open-pit coal mines operating in Europe. EIB Advisory will also help to strengthen the Ministry’s capacity to manage complex projects and expand European Union funding.

    “Fostering economic and social cohesion is at the heart of the EIB’s mission and we stand ready to support a just transition for the Bulgarian regions most affected by the shift away from mining and carbon-intensive energy production and industrial activities,” said EIB Vice-President Kyriacos Kakouris. “Our approach endeavours to ensure that no people or places are left behind in the transition to a low-carbon and climate-resilient economy and society.”

    The burning of coal to produce electricity is major source of the greenhouse gases that cause climate change and cutting emissions at Maritsa East Complex is key for the clean-economy goals of Bulgaria and the EU as a whole.

    “Efforts to decarbonise the Maritsa East Complex are key to its sustainable development and to ensuring conditions for competitiveness and growth of the economy and the better well-being of Bulgarians,” said Bulgarian Energy Minister Zhecho Stankov. “We are happy that the government has the EIB as a partner in the process. It is an institution with many years of experience and proven expertise. I am confident that this cooperation will ensure the sustainable long-term operation of the Maritsa East Complex in line with the challenges of the green future.”

    The Ministry of Energy, supported by EIB Advisory under a technical assistance accord signed in early 2024, has made substantial progress in defining a strategic pathway for the transition of the Maritsa East Complex.

    The assistance included a comprehensive analysis of the state of the complex, an assessment of existing infrastructure and the development of an investor roadmap. These efforts clarified the scope of high-impact projects that can be implemented in the near term to drive Bulgaria’s decarbonisation strategy. Investment priorities by the companies operating in the Maritsa East Complex were also identified, refining the list of strategic projects contributing to the transition efforts.

    The EIB provides its advisory support under the European Commission’s InvestEU Advisory Hub to help Bulgaria’s coal-to-clean energy transition.

    Background information  

    About the EIB  

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. The EIB finances investments in eight core priorities that support EU policy objectives: climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and the bioeconomy, social infrastructure, the capital markets union and a stronger Europe in a more peaceful and prosperous world.  

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.    

    In addition to financing, the EIB offers advisory services that help public and private partners develop and implement high-quality, investment-ready projects. In 2024 alone, EIB advisory teams helped mobilise over €200 billion of investments across Europe and beyond.

    About the InvestEU Advisory Hub

    The InvestEU programme provides the EU with long-term funding by leveraging substantial private and public funds in support of a sustainable recovery and growth. It helps mobilise private investments for the EU’s policy priorities, such as the European Green Deal and the digital transition. InvestEU brings together under one roof the multitude of EU financial instruments, making funding for investment projects in Europe simpler, more efficient and more flexible.

    The InvestEU Advisory Hub is the central entry point for project promoters and intermediaries seeking advisory support and technical assistance related to centrally managed EU investment funds. Managed by the European Commission and financed by the EU budget, the InvestEU Advisory Hub connects project promoters and intermediaries with advisory partners, who work directly together to help projects reach the financing stage.

    EIB Advisory provides technical and financial expertise to support the development of sustainable and bankable projects in various sectors. In Bulgaria, EIB experts are assisting public authorities and businesses in preparing infrastructure investments in energy, energy efficiency, healthcare, transport and the environment, improving project planning and enhancing access to funding through tailored services and capacity building.

    Bulgaria to receive EIB support for decarbonising major site for coal-fired power production
    Bulgaria to receive EIB support for decarbonising major site for coal-fired power production
    ©EIB
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    Bulgaria to receive EIB support for decarbonising major site for coal-fired power production
    Bulgaria to receive EIB support for decarbonising major site for coal-fired power production
    ©EIB
    Download original
    Bulgaria to receive EIB support for decarbonising major site for coal-fired power production
    Bulgaria to receive EIB support for decarbonising major site for coal-fired power production
    ©EIB
    Download original

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Türkiye-gate – E-002081/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002081/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Emmanouil Fragkos (ECR)

    The EU’s blatant disregard for Türkiye’s violations of international law and the country’s attacks on international peace remains inexplicable for all nations bordering Türkiye. Unfortunately, the methods employed by Türkiye – including by Diyanet, TİKA , TRT and Turkish banks within the EU – for ‘influencing’ EU policies need to be investigated.

    Türkiye has been accused on numerous occasions of attempts to exert influence by means of illegal funding and political corruption at international level. In the US, the most recent and blatant example involved the Mayor of New York, Eric Adams. There has been a federal investigation into whether his election campaign in 2021 was illegally financed through persons with ties to the Turkish Government, with the digital devices of his associates also being seized. Furthermore, Michael Flynn, the former national security advisor to the US President, admitted that he had accepted payments to represent Turkish interests, which he had failed to declare as he advocated the extradition of Fethullah Gülen.

    Türkiye has tried to exert influence through the unfair and illegal lobbying of diaspora organisations in Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium.

    Can the Commission therefore answer the following:

    • 1.Does it consider that the above cases establish a framework of suspicious Turkish conduct at international level, or does it believe that the country has only attempted to influence the US and not the EU, for whatever reason?
    • 2.What steps has it taken and what steps is it planning to take to detect Turkish corruption in the Commission and its bodies and agencies?

    Submitted: 22.5.2025

    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Situation in Cambodia and Commission action to address it – E-001938/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001938/2025/rev.1
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Ilhan Kyuchyuk (Renew)

    Grave concerns from the EU, the UN and international non-governmental organisation reports led to a November 2024 Parliament resolution demanding action on Cambodia. The need for stronger EU policy is highlighted by Cambodia’s protection of suspects in the assassination of EU national, Lim Kimya, in Bangkok. It is also emphasised by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network’s finding, linking Huione Group, connected to the Prime Minister’s cousin Hun To, to cybercrime that impacts EU citizens. This trend contradicts EU principles and the everything but arms (EBA) trade scheme.

    • 1.What detailed action plan has the Commission developed to implement the demands of the 2024 Cambodia Resolution, and what mechanisms are in place to monitor and evaluate its impact?
    • 2.Given Cambodia’s continued failure to comply with its obligations under the EBA regulations, what concrete steps will the Commission propose to address these breaches and does the Commission still consider the EBA to be effective, and if not, what alternative regulatory frameworks will the Commission consider?
    • 3.Regarding Cambodia’s non-cooperation on the Lim Kimya extradition, what diplomatic and legal measures will the European External Action Service undertake and does the Commission believe that current EU legislation is sufficient to address instances of transnational repression emanating from or facilitated by Cambodia, or is new legislation deemed necessary to protect EU citizens?

    Submitted: 14.5.2025

    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Pfizer legal costs – E-002157/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002157/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Kathleen Funchion (The Left)

    Can the Commission state the cost incurred in defending Court of Justice of the European Union case T-36/23 (Stevi and The New York Times v Commission) in terms of both external legal advice and fees, and in-house work hours expended by Commission legal staff to date?

    Submitted: 28.5.2025

    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on supporting the United Kingdom accession to the Convention of 2 July 2019 on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Judgments in Civil or Commercial Matters – B10-0273/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    B10‑0273/2025

    European Parliament resolution on supporting the United Kingdom accession to the Convention of 2 July 2019 on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Judgments in Civil or Commercial Matters

    (2025/2709(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to Article 218 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU),

    – having regard to Articles 24 and 29 of the Convention of 2 July 2019 on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Judgments in Civil or Commercial Matters[1] (‘Judgments Convention’),

    – having regard to the question to the Commission on the United Kingdom’s application to accede to the Lugano Convention on jurisdiction and the recognition and enforcement of judgments in civil and commercial matters[2] (O-000022/2021),

    – having regard to the question to the Commission on the non-objection mechanisms in international conventions to which the European Union is a party (O-000042/2023),

    – having regard to the question to the Commission concerning the United Kingdom’s accession to the Convention of 2 July 2019 on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Judgments in Civil or Commercial MattersO-000016/2025,

    – having regard to Rules 142(5) and 136(2) of its Rules of Procedure,

    – having regard to the motion for a resolution of the Committee on Legal Affairs,

    A. whereas the statutory purpose of the Hague Conference on Private International Law (‘Hague Conference’) is to work for the progressive unification of the rules of private international law;

    B. whereas the European Union became a party to the Hague Conference on 3 April 2007;

    C. whereas the Judgments Convention facilitates the effective international circulation of judgments in civil or commercial matters by providing legal certainty and predictability to parties involved in cross-border transactions and clarity as to whether and to what extent a judgment will be recognised and enforced in another jurisdiction; whereas by ensuring the recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments, the Judgments Convention should enhance access to justice by reducing legal time frames, costs and risks in cross-border circumstances;

    D. whereas pursuant to Article 24 of the Judgments Convention, any non-EU state can accede to the Convention; whereas such accession creates treaty relations between two contracting parties only if neither of them has notified the depositary that the accession must not have the effect of establishing treaty relations with the other; whereas such a notification must be submitted within a period of 12 months after the date on which the accession was notified;

    E. whereas under the current practice, the Commission does not initiate a formal procedure in accordance with Article 218(6) TFEU for the conventions that contain a non-objection mechanism, but only informs the Council and Parliament of any third country’s request to accede to a given Hague instrument;

    F. whereas, according to well-established case-law, an international agreement cannot affect the allocation of powers fixed by the Treaties, thus when at international level a silence procedure has been adopted to facilitate accession by third states should be of no consequence for the EU’s internal decision-making process;

    G. whereas the European Union acceded to the Judgments Convention on 29 August 2022;

    H. whereas the United Kingdom deposited its instrument of ratification to the Judgments Convention on 27 June 2024;

    I. whereas if the Union accepts the United Kingdom’s accession to the Judgments Convention, it will enter into force on 1 July 2025 and be applicable between the two parties;

    1. Welcomes the positive assessments made by the Commission with the aim of establishing treaty relations with the United Kingdom in the framework of the Judgments Convention;

    2. Supports the accession of the United Kingdom to the Judgments Convention;

    3. Reiterates that this resolution is without prejudice to the procedure set out in Article 218(6) TFEU, which should be followed in matters concerning the establishment of the EU position regarding accession by third states to the Hague Conference Conventions;

    4. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Commission and the Council.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Revision of the Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive – E-002116/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002116/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    José Cepeda (S&D)

    The Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive has raised concerns in the pharmaceutical and cosmetics sector, as well as in several Member States. The sector argues that the directive has a disproportionate and discriminatory impact on the two industries. The application of extended producer responsibility raises doubts as to its alignment with the ‘polluter pays’ principle, due to questions of technical feasibility and a lack of proportionality.

    Organisations representing the sector argue that the Commission’s impact assessment lacks technical precision and key data, leading to unjustified costs and a loss of industrial competitiveness in the sectors.

    In light of this situation:

    • 1.Will the Commission update its impact assessment based on the 2022 JRC list and consider an approach based on substances rather than sectors?
    • 2.Is the Commission considering revising the directive within the next omnibus package to ensure proportionality and non-discrimination in the application of this directive?

    Submitted: 27.5.2025

    Last updated: 5 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –