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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK partnership with Tunisia to target root causes of irregular migration

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Foreign Secretary announces new funding for programmes in Tunisia to smash the gangs and secure UK borders.

    • UK boosts support for projects in North Africa to tackle drivers of small boats arrivals in Europe and UK.
    • During visit to Tunisia Foreign Secretary announces new multi-million-pound funding for programmes to educate and upskill would-be migrants to become more employable in their home country, and support reintegration for migrants who wish to return.
    • Part of UK Government’s latest efforts to protect UK borders and bring down migration as part of its Plan for Change.

    Efforts to tackle the root causes of migration upstream are being bolstered as the Foreign Secretary announces new funding for programmes in Tunisia to strengthen work with international partners, smash the people smuggling gangs, secure the UK’s borders and support those vulnerable to exploitation by criminals.

    The Foreign Secretary will travel to Tunisia to unveil a new package of up to £5 million to boost UK funded programmes in the region to upskill migrants in-country, making it less likely that they will make dangerous small boats journeys to Europe, including to the UK, and undermine the country’s border security.

    The UK has also announced up to £1 million of funding to the International Organisation for Migration’s Assisted Voluntary Returns & Reintegration (AVRR) Programme, to support transiting migrants who have no legal right to be in Tunisia and to return and reintegrate them to their home country.  

    While in Tunisia, the Foreign Secretary will be accompanied by the recently-appointed Border Security Commander, Martin Hewitt for meetings with their Tunisian counterparts to discuss ways of strengthening cooperation on both countries’ fight against people smuggling and irregular migration. They will meet members of the Tunisian National Guard who are using UK-supplied drones and night vision technology to intercept small boats carrying irregular migrants under cover of darkness. 

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy said: 

    Through working with countries like Tunisia, we are addressing the root causes of irregular migration and delivering on our Plan for Change. 

    By improving people’s living standards in their home country, they are less likely to make a perilous journey to the UK, enrich criminal gangs in the process and exploit our immigration system.

    The support I am announcing today, alongside UK technology such as drones and night vision goggles, will save lives, bring down migration levels, and help us bear down on those responsible for smuggling migrants into the UK.

    Border Security Commander Martin Hewitt said: 

    International partners like Tunisia play a vital role in the UK’s efforts to combat irregular migration, organised immigration crime and the harm both cause to communities at home and abroad. 

    We are committed to doing whatever it takes to tackle this problem at source and will continue to work hand in hand with countries upstream to deter and prevent migrants from making these dangerous journeys in the first place – saving lives and delivering on the government’s promise to secure the UK’s borders.

    This visit also follows the introduction of the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill to Parliament, which will help to further strengthen our relationships with international partners and empower teams on the ground to go further and act faster when dismantling organised criminality.

    Today’s announcement shows the UK’s strategy to disrupt people smuggling networks, slash migration levels and double down on recent partnerships with European and regional partners to bear down on groups responsible for the evil trade in human lives. This includes a new UK-Iraq border security agreement, as well a new anti-smuggling action plan signed by other G7 nations.  

    The visit also follows the introduction of the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill to Parliament (January 30). Inspired by powers used to combat terrorism, the Bill will be a turning point for law enforcement, allowing them to take earlier and more effective action against organised immigration crime.

    In January, the UK launched the world’s first standalone sanctions package designed to target people smugglers, clamp down on illegal migration and deliver the foundations for security at home. This follows also the UK successfully removing the highest number of irregular migrants since 2018 last year building on the Government’s commitment to return those who have no legal right to be in the UK.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft confirms its leadership in sustainable development

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Rosneft has been recognized as the best company in the oil and gas sector included in the calculation base of the Moscow Exchange-RAEX ESG Balanced Index based on the results of 2024.

    The index was launched in 2023. It is formed once a year and consists of 15 companies with the highest values in the field of sustainable development from the RAEX rating agency. The index is calculated based on the RAEX ESG ranking, which, based on the results of 2024, included a total of 144 companies from Russia, Kazakhstan and Mongolia, 18 of which represent the oil and gas industry.

    The basis of Rosneft’s strategy is to build a business that takes into account the highest requirements in the field of industrial safety and environmental protection. Since 2007, the company has been publishing an annual Sustainable Development Report in accordance with the international standards of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI).

    Over the past five years, Rosneft has allocated more than 440 billion rubles for environmental protection, of which over 270 billion rubles were “green” investments and about 170 billion rubles were expenses for wastewater treatment, land reclamation and other environmental work. This allowed achieving impressive results in improving the environmental friendliness of the business: emissions into the atmosphere were reduced by 25%, discharges into water bodies were reduced by 10%, and the area of disturbed land was reduced by 14%. As part of the corporate program, more than 800 hectares of contaminated “historical heritage” lands were reclaimed.

    Rosneft develops and implements its own modern technologies, including in the field of atmospheric air quality control. Thus, specialists of the Company’s laboratory have developed new methods of atmospheric air control, which have been certified and entered into the Federal Information Fund for Ensuring the Uniformity of Measurements. Their implementation has increased the efficiency of atmospheric air control at a number of enterprises by 35%.

    In 2024, RAEX highly praised the Company’s activities in managing ESG risks and opportunities: Rosneft became the only Russian oil and gas company with a high ESG rating of AA, while the management component rating received the highest rating of AAA. This once again confirmed the Company’s leading position in the field of sustainable development, as well as the high quality of information disclosure. In addition, the corporate development agency “Da-Strategy” awarded Rosneft, the only Russian oil and gas company, the highest level rating of A “Leader of Corporate ESG Practice in the Russian Federation”.

    Reference:

    In December 2018, Rosneft became the first Russian company to publicly confirm its commitment to the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals and integrate them into its corporate strategy.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft January 31, 2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A delegation from the Republic of Indonesia visited NSU on a working visit

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    Today, NSU was visited by a delegation from the Republic of Indonesia headed by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus, Mr. Jose Antonio Morato Tavares. The meeting was attended by the rector of Novosibirsk State University, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Mikhail Fedoruk.

    In his welcoming speech, Mikhail Fedoruk emphasized that expanding cooperation with the Republic of Indonesia in the educational and cultural spheres is part of the general vector for developing relations between the region and the largest island state in Southeast Asia.

    — As the Governor of Novosibirsk Oblast Andrey Travnikov noted, in terms of trade turnover, Indonesia already ranks 5-6 among all importing and exporting countries with which Novosibirsk Oblast works. And, of course, there are reserves for further development of cooperation. Therefore, of course, we are interested in expanding our ties, including academic internships, student exchanges, and training Indonesian students here.

    — As for strengthening our cooperation in the field of education, we are interested in specialties related to science, technology, mathematics. We know that Russia is very strong in these areas. The purpose of our visit to Novosibirsk State University is to get acquainted with the university in order to further increase the number of students sent to study in Russia, — said Mr. Jose Antonio Morato Tavares.

    Currently, NSU has four students from the Republic of Indonesia studying, two of them in the General Medicine program. Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, one – on Faculty of Natural Sciences and one – on Faculty of Mechanics and MathematicsDuring the visit to NSU, the students met with the ambassador and shared their impressions of studying at the university.

    — I was looking for a university that taught natural sciences well. When I was choosing a place to study, I learned about Akademgorodok and NSU, and decided to enroll here. I am very excited about the meeting with the ambassador, thanks to her, many Indonesians will learn about NSU and Novosibirsk. I hope that in the future our university will have more students from Indonesia, — said Yusfonda Dellastefani-Laventosa, a third-year student of the Faculty of Natural Sciences at NSU.

    — I have been studying at NSU for 5 years now, and I really like it! I hope that our countries will build good relations. I am a little worried, because this is my first time at such a meeting, especially with the Ambassador of Indonesia, I think everything will go well, — shared his emotions 5th-year student of the Faculty of Medicine and Psychology of NSU Ibrahim Fat Audi.

    The delegation of the Republic of Indonesia worked in the Novosibirsk Region for two days. During the visit, a meeting was held with the Governor of the Novosibirsk Region Andrey Travnikov, the delegation visited Akadempark and several Novosibirsk companies, and also took part in the opening of the exhibition “Necklace of the Equator”, dedicated to the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Indonesia. The exhibition will be held in the Novosibirsk State Art Museum until March 2.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Oxfam Aotearoa responds to New Zealand’s Climate Target

    Source: Oxfam Aotearoa

    “New Zealand’s climate target for 2035 fails to show our commitment to stand with the Pacific and stop climate harm” said Oxfam Aotearoa Climate Justice Lead, Nick Henry.
    The New Zealand Government has just announced its climate target for 2035 under the Paris Agreement. New Zealand is obliged to set a Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) that shows ‘maximum possible ambition’ to reduce climate-harming emissions. The NDC must also show progress from the 2030 target.
    New Zealand’s first NDC committed to net emissions in 2030 being 50% less than gross emissions in 2005. The new target for 2035 commits to 51-55% reductions in the same terms.
    “While other countries around the world are making real progress, committing to 60 and 70% reductions by 2035, New Zealand offers a paltry additional 1-5% from their 2030 goal.”
    ‘The new target stretches the meaning of “progress” to a breaking point and fails to show the “maximum possible ambition” that our Government promised.’
    ‘We are at a critical point for the Pacific as global heating creeps closer to 1.5 degrees. Our Government should be standing with the communities most affected and leading global efforts to stop the climate crisis getting worse.’ 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Shoplifter convicted after being caught in the act by Met officers

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man who was caught in the act during a Met Police operation to tackle shoplifting in south London has been jailed.

    Neighbourhood officers in Lambeth carried out a targeted sting at the Co-Op in Lower Marsh on Monday, 27 January after several reports of theft from the store.

    After reviewing recent crime reports, they arrived early and waited in the back office where they monitored CCTV cameras.

    At around 08:30hrs a man entered the store and began ransacking the meat chiller. He was immediately detained and arrested.

    Derick Bell, 36 (29.02.88) and of no fixed address, was charged the following day and appeared at Croydon Magistrates’ Court where he pleaded guilty to two counts of shoplifting. He was jailed for eight weeks.

    Inspector Darren Watson, from the Neighbourhood Policing Team in Lambeth, said:

    “This is an excellent example of how the Met is taking a targeted approach to tackle the type of offending that matters most to Londoners.

    “We know shoplifting has a significant impact on businesses and shop staff. It often also fuels other crime and anti-social behaviour.

    “In Lambeth alone, our enforcement activity means 11 of the 14 most prolific shoplifters in the area are currently in prison and we will continue to take action against those who cause misery in our communities.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Welsh experience proves 20mph limits will save lives on Scotland’s roads

    Source: Scottish Greens

    31 Jan 2025 Transport

    Lower speeds make for safer streets.

    More in Transport

    Default speed limits of 20mph are saving lives in Wales, with data showing that around 100 fewer people were killed or seriously hurt on 20mph and 30mph roads in the year since the rollout of the default 20mph speed limit.

    The news has been hailed by Scottish Green MSP Mark Ruskell, who has called for Scotland to learn from the experience.

    As a result of budget negotiations, the Scottish Greens have secured funding to support a nationwide expansion of 20mph limits across local authorities this year.

    Mr Ruskell has been championing this move since 2018, when he first brought a Members Bill to introduce a 20mph limit in Scotland.

    Following an increase in road deaths, the Scottish Government has begun consultations on changing speed limits nationally.

    Mr Ruskell said:

    “We know that lower speed limits save lives, and these figures only add to the overwhelming case for change.

    “These are not just numbers on a page, they are real people and real families who have been spared the grief and pain of losing a loved one.

    “We all benefit from safer streets and communities. All road users should be able to travel safely, and it isn’t too much to ask drivers to keep themselves and others safe.

    “It is a long overdue change that is badly needed here in Scotland, particularly at a time when road deaths are increasing.

    “Scotland needs to learn from the rollout and the success in Wales and make our roads safer for all.

    “I’m delighted that the Scottish Budget will have enough funding to allow councils to introduce 20mph speed limits more widely in the next year across Scotland, it can’t come a moment too soon.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ofqual to fine Pearson £250k over exams rules breaches

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Awarding body Pearson put the integrity of exam papers at risk and failed to monitor examiners’ conflicts of interest.

    Ofqual intends to fine exam board Pearson £250,000 for breaching rules designed to protect students and the integrity of exams.

    The breaches, which occurred in 2023, included failing to identify conflicts of interest among GCSE, A level and BTEC examiners, who were also employed by Pearson as tutors at schools where students sat the exams.

    Pearson also failed to follow its own policies designed to ensure the confidentiality of exam papers.

    Pearson co-operated fully with Ofqual’s enforcement process and admitted it had breached its Conditions of Recognition – which all awarding organisations are legally required to follow for regulated qualifications.

    Amanda Swann, Ofqual’s Executive Director for General Qualifications, said: “Our rules protect students taking regulated qualifications including GCSE, A Level and BTECs. We will take action when our rules are breached, and the interests of students are put at risk.

    “Fortunately, in these instances there is no evidence of any direct impact on students. Pearson, however, failed to guard against conflicts of interest and breaches of confidentiality and we intend to fine them accordingly.”

    From July 2023, Pearson reported breaches of its own policies to Ofqual when it had:

    • Failed to identify, monitor and record conflicts of interest. In total, 195 examiners marking GCSEs, A levels and BTEC papers, who were also working as tutors for Pearson under the government’s National Tutoring Programme, marked 7,244 exam responses by students at schools, where they had potential conflict of interest. Pearson told Ofqual that any potentially compromised exam questions were subsequently remarked by other examiners before any grades were awarded. Pearson has also confirmed to Ofqual it had bolstered systems to prevent this happening again, including improving notification to examiners of the requirement to declare personal interests.

    • Failed to safeguard the confidentiality of school exams in 6 instances when individuals, involved in writing or advising on an exam paper’s content, were also practising teachers. Pearson confirmed it had subsequently made changes intended to prevent such breaches in future, including additional staff training.

    Ofqual’s enforcement panel concluded a fine was appropriate, given the seriousness of the breaches and that Pearson held the information necessary to prevent them. Pearson has agreed a settlement proposal which includes the fine.

    Ofqual has today published a Notice of Intention to fine Pearson. It gives more details of the case and invites interested parties to make representations ahead of a final decision.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: E3 Foreign Ministers’ statement on the implementation of legislation against United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA)

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Statement from the Foreign Ministers of the UK, France and Germany on the implementation of legislation against United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East.

    Joint statement on behalf of the Foreign Ministers of the UK, France and Germany:

    We, the Foreign Ministers of the United Kingdom, France and Germany reiterate our grave concern regarding the Government of Israel’s implementation of legislation forbidding any contact between Israeli state entities, officials and the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA); and prohibiting any UNRWA presence within Israel and East Jerusalem.

    We ask the Government of Israel to abide by its international obligations and live up to its responsibility to ensure full, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian assistance and the provision of basic services to the civilian population. We urge the Government of Israel to work with international partners, including the UN, to ensure continuity of operations. No other entity or UN Agency currently has the capacity or infrastructure to replace UNRWA’s mandate and experience.

    We reiterate our support for UNRWA’s UN-mandate to provide essential services and humanitarian assistance to Palestine refugees in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.  UNRWA is the primary service provider to Palestinian refugees in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and is an integral part of the response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

    We condemn in the strongest possible terms the brutal and unjustified terror attacks by Hamas on Israel on October 7, 2023. We call on UNRWA to continue on its path of reform demonstrating its commitment to the principle of neutrality, in line with the independent review of April 2024, led by Ms. Catherine Colonna. All alleged involvement of UNRWA staff in appalling acts in support of 7 October and subsequent events must be thoroughly investigated.

    We reiterate our full endorsement and support for the ceasefire agreement reached between Israel and Hamas. It is vital that we now see the release of all remaining hostages. We welcome the notable increase of humanitarian assistance reaching Gaza since the beginning of the ceasefire and call on all parties to ensure its continuity. We are grateful for the extensive efforts of the US, Egypt and Qatar in mediating the agreement and urge all parties to engage constructively in negotiating the subsequent phases of the deal to help ensure its full implementation and a permanent end to hostilities. 

    We will play our full part in the coming days and weeks to seize the opportunity of this ceasefire and to ensure it leads to a credible pathway towards a two-state solution in which Israelis and Palestinians can live side by side in peace.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai’s response to Pope Francis’s 2025 World Day of Peace message  

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Details
    2025-01-17
    President Lai meets former US Vice President Mike Pence
    On the afternoon of January 17, President Lai Ching-te met with former Vice President of the United States Mike Pence. In remarks, President Lai thanked former Vice President Pence for his contributions to the deepening of Taiwan-US relations, noting that he actively helped to strengthen Taiwan-US cooperation and facilitate the normalization of military sales to Taiwan, and did his utmost to deepen the Taiwan-US economic partnership. The president indicated that former Vice President Pence also spoke up for Taiwan on numerous occasions at international venues, backing Taiwan’s international participation. President Lai expressed hope for a stronger Taiwan-US partnership to maintain peace and stability throughout the world, and that the two sides can advance bilateral exchanges in such areas as the economy, trade, and industry. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I am delighted to welcome former Vice President Pence and Mrs. Karen Pence to the Presidential Office. Former Vice President Pence is not only an outstanding political leader in the US, but also a staunch supporter of Taiwan on the international stage. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to take this opportunity to extend our deepest gratitude to former Vice President Pence for his contributions to the deepening of Taiwan-US relations. Thanks to former Vice President Pence’s strong backing, ties between Taiwan and the US rose to unprecedented heights during President Donald Trump’s first administration. Former Vice President Pence actively helped to strengthen Taiwan-US security cooperation and facilitate the normalization of military sales to Taiwan, helping Taiwan reinforce its self-defense capabilities. He also did his utmost to deepen the Taiwan-US economic partnership. Former Vice President Pence also paid close attention to the military threats and diplomatic isolation faced by Taiwan. He spoke up for Taiwan on numerous occasions at international venues, taking concrete action to back Taiwan’s international participation. We were truly grateful for this. As we speak, China’s political and military intimidation against Taiwan persist. China and other authoritarian regimes, such as Russia, North Korea, and Iran, are continuing to converge and present serious challenges to democracies around the globe. At this moment, free and democratic nations must come together to bolster cooperation. I believe that a stronger Taiwan-US partnership can be an even more powerful force in maintaining peace and stability throughout the world. Former Vice President Pence has previously supported the signing of a trade agreement between Taiwan and the US. Taiwan looks forward to continuing to work with the new US administration and Congress to advance bilateral exchanges in such areas as the economy, trade, and industry. This is the first time that former Vice President Pence and Mrs. Pence are visiting Taiwan, and their visit is significantly meaningful for Taiwan-US exchanges. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I want to extend a warm welcome. Moving forward, I hope we will jointly realize even more fruitful achievements through Taiwan-US cooperation. Former Vice President Pence then delivered remarks, thanking President Lai for his hospitality on his and his wife’s first visit to Taiwan, saying that it is an honor to be here to reaffirm the bonds of friendship between the people of America and the people of Taiwan, which are strong and longstanding. The former vice president indicated that the American people admire the people of Taiwan and all that has been accomplished in a few short decades for Taiwan to rise to one of the world’s preeminent economic powers and free societies. He said that he is grateful for President Lai’s courageous and bold leadership of Taiwan, and grateful to be able to express the support of the overwhelming majority of the American people for this alliance. Former Vice President Pence indicated that the values shared by Taiwan and the US, including freedom, the rule of law, and respect for human rights, bind us together in a partnership that transcends geographic boundaries and cultures. He then assured President Lai that China’s increasingly aggressive posture in the Taiwan Strait and across the Indo-Pacific, for the values and interests that both sides share, is deeply concerning to the American people. Former Vice President Pence stated that America is a Pacific nation, and is committed to the status quo, adding that they recognize it is China that wants to change the status quo that America, Taiwan, and other allies in the region want to preserve, which has created an environment of extraordinary growth and prosperity. The former vice president concluded by once again thanking President Lai and his team for their gracious hospitality and conveying best wishes to him and the people of Taiwan. Former Vice President Pence then assured President Lai that just as Taiwan will never surrender its freedom, he will continue to be a voice for a strong US-Taiwan relationship in the defense and the benefit of Taiwan, the US, and the free world. Later that day, Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao hosted a banquet for former Vice President Pence and his delegation at Taipei Guest House to thank him for his longstanding friendship and staunch support for Taiwan-US ties.  

    Details
    2025-01-17
    President Lai meets delegation to 60th Inaugural Ceremonies of US president and vice president
    On the morning of January 16, President Lai Ching-te met with Taiwan’s delegation to the 60th Inaugural Ceremonies of the President and Vice President of the United States. In remarks, President Lai stated that democratic Taiwan stands united, working hard to deepen Taiwan-US ties together. He then entrusted the delegation with three missions: to convey best wishes from the people of Taiwan, convey our firm commitment to democracy, and help Taiwan-US relations reach a new milestone. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: The 60th Inaugural Ceremonies of the President and Vice President of the US will be held on January 20. I want to thank Speaker Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜), president of the Legislative Yuan, for accepting my invitation to lead our nation’s representative delegation to the event. I also thank Legislative Yuan Members Ko Chih-en (柯志恩), Wang Ting-yu (王定宇), Ko Ju-chun (葛如鈞), Lee Yen-hsiu (李彥秀), Chen Kuan-ting (陳冠廷), Kuo Yu-ching (郭昱晴), and Chen Gau-tzu (陳昭姿) for joining this visit to the US to attend the inauguration of President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance. We have gathered together today despite differences in party affiliation because in democratic Taiwan, while parties may compete domestically, when it comes to engagement externally, they stand united and share responsibility, working hard to deepen Taiwan-US ties and strive for the best interests of the nation. We share the value of defending freedom and democracy, and we share the goal of advancing peace and prosperity. Today, we engage with the world together as those from the same country – the Republic of China (Taiwan). In this complex and volatile new international landscape, and as the nation faces difficulties and challenges, I want to stress that in Formosa, there is no hostility that cannot be let go, and no hardship that cannot be overcome. Unity is the most important, and I hope that Taiwan can stand united, because there is true strength in unity. Democratic Taiwan must stand united in engaging with the world and initiate exchanges with confidence. On that ground, I am entrusting this delegation with three key missions. First, convey best wishes from the people of Taiwan. Just last year, Taiwan and the US celebrated the 45th anniversary of the passage of the Taiwan Relations Act. And on May 20, the US sent a senior bipartisan delegation to congratulate me and Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao on our inauguration. As the leader of this cross-party delegation, Speaker Han must clearly convey the well-wishes of the people of Taiwan, congratulate President Trump and Vice President Vance on their inauguration, and wish success to the new administration and prosperity to the US. Second, clearly convey the firm commitment of the people of Taiwan to democracy. The theme of these inaugural ceremonies is “Our Enduring Democracy: A Constitutional Promise.” Taiwan and the US share the universal value of democracy and are staunch allies. I hope that the delegation can faithfully convey the firm commitment to democracy that the people of Taiwan have, which will not change even in the face of authoritarian threats. Taiwan is willing to stand side by side with the US and other members of the democratic community to defend the sustainable development of global democracy and prevent the expansion of authoritarianism. Third, help Taiwan-US relations reach a new milestone. In recent years, Taiwan-US relations have continued to grow, with the first agreement under the Taiwan-US Initiative on 21st Century Trade having formally taken effect last month. This morning, the House of Representatives also passed the US-Taiwan Expedited Double-Tax Relief Act. I hope that the delegation can help Taiwan-US relations reach a new milestone through these exchanges so that our relations continue to grow, our cooperation expands even more, and so that we can achieve even greater success after the new administration takes office. Four years ago, Taiwan’s representative to the US inaugural ceremonies was Vice President Hsiao, who was then our representative to the US. Everyone has a lot to learn from her. I have specially invited everyone here to converse so that you can draw from Vice President Hsiao’s experience and ensure an even smoother visit. Washington, DC was also hit by a rare blizzard recently, and the weather has been very cold, so make sure to stay warm. I am sending everyone off with hand warmers and thermoses so that you can bring some warmth from Taiwan with you on your journey. And I ask that Speaker Han exercise his wisdom to help generate some warmth between the ruling and opposition parties through cooperation, which they can then bring back to Taiwan. Let us unite to give our all for diplomacy so that we can unite to give our all for Taiwan. I wish the delegation a smooth and safe trip, and hope your missions can be carried out successfully. Speaker Han then delivered remarks, stating that it was an honor to be invited by President Lai to organize a delegation to represent our nation at the 60th Inaugural Ceremonies of the President and Vice President of the US in Washington, DC, and express the Republic of China’s sincere and cordial best wishes. The Legislative Yuan’s president has assumed this important task numerous times in the past, he said, not only to represent the government of the Republic of China, but also to take on the mission of conveying the voices of 23 million people. He went on to say that he is honored to take up the baton, lead eight legislators to the US to attend this celebration that will attract global attention, and express sincere best wishes to newly elected President Trump, Vice President Vance, and the new administration’s team. As enjoined by President Lai, he hopes the delegation’s trip will help open a new chapter in Taiwan-US exchanges. Speaker Han stated that the US is the most free and democratic country in the world. He noted that in 1776 in the US Declaration of Independence, founding father Thomas Jefferson propounded the concept of “unalienable rights,” and emphasized that the people have a right to freedom and the pursuit of happiness, democratic ideas that have long been rooted in the people’s hearts. Today, he said, democracy is also embedded in the DNA of Taiwan’s 23 million people, and this hard-won democratic achievement is a result of the concerted efforts of our pioneering predecessors, thinkers, and activists over the past 100 years. Speaker Han stated that during this visit, the Legislative Yuan delegation hopes to convey the voice of Taiwan as a democratic country. Taiwan’s security, he said, is like the four legs of a table: The first leg is defending the Republic of China, the second is defending freedom and democracy, the third is maintaining Taiwan-US relations, and the fourth is maintaining cross-strait peace. The delegation will travel to the US amidst severe cold weather to show that we value our relationship with the US, and our citizens have great hopes and expectations. Speaker Han stated that this will be a cross-party delegation of eight legislators, all of whom have a strong sense of mission. He hopes that all democratic nations will acknowledge Taiwan’s importance, and pay attention to Taiwan’s 23 million people. The delegation, he said, will do its utmost to convey the goodwill and warmth that the people of Taiwan give to each and every one of our good friends.

    Details
    2025-01-17
    President Lai confers decoration on former Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis
    On the morning of January 14, President Lai Ching-te conferred the Order of Brilliant Star with Special Grand Cordon upon former Minister of Foreign Affairs Gabrielius Landsbergis of the Republic of Lithuania in recognition of his remarkable contributions to deepening Taiwan-Lithuania relations. In remarks, President Lai thanked former Minister Landsbergis for standing firmly with Taiwan and remaining a staunch defender of democratic values, yielding fruitful cooperative results. The president expressed hope that the two countries will engage in even more cooperation and exchanges in such areas as the economy, trade, technology, and culture, and continue to advocate for the values of freedom and democracy so that together we can contribute even more to our nations’ development and to peace and prosperity throughout the world. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: Today, by conferring the Order of Brilliant Star with Special Grand Cordon upon former Minister Landsbergis, we recognize his outstanding contributions during his time as foreign minister of Lithuania. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I thank him for the key role he has played in deepening Taiwan-Lithuania relations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, thanks to the efforts of former Minister Landsbergis, Lithuania was the first European nation to donate vaccines to Taiwan. On that occasion, he stated that “freedom-loving people should look out for each other.” His statement was very moving and left a deep impression on many Taiwanese people. We will never forget it. Former Minister Landsbergis has continued to express the spirit of those words through his concrete actions. With his staunch support, Taiwan and Lithuania have mutually established representative offices. Moreover, our representative office in Lithuania was the first in Europe to incorporate “Taiwan” in its name. As for bilateral cooperation, Taiwan and Lithuania have seen fruitful results in such fields as semiconductors, laser technology, finance, and medicine. Be it overcoming the challenges posed by the pandemic or resisting expanding authoritarianism, former Minister Landsbergis has stood firmly with Taiwan and remained a staunch defender of democratic values. We greatly admire and appreciate his spirit. Today, authoritarian regimes continue to converge, posing threats and challenges to democracies around the world. Taiwan, Lithuania, and other democratic countries must come closer together, drawing on the strength of unity, so as to jointly safeguard freedom and democracy and uphold the rules-based international order. Looking ahead, we hope that Taiwan and Lithuania will engage in even more cooperation and exchanges in such areas as the economy, trade, technology, and culture. Let us continue to advocate for the values of freedom and democracy. Together, we can contribute even more to our nations’ development and to peace and prosperity throughout the world. In closing, I once again thank you, former Minister Landsbergis, for your support and for all that you have done for Taiwan. We welcome you and your wife to visit often. I wish you both a smooth and successful visit in Taiwan, and hope you leave with lasting memories.    Former Minister Landsbergis then delivered remarks, saying that it is a great honor to receive the decoration today. He noted that only partially can he accept the honor, as there have been many people who worked together with him in the ministry and in the whole country who support the people of Taiwan and see the benefit of supporting democracy in Taiwan. He often says that in Lithuania they remember well the fight for their freedom, and just today, he mentioned, he was shown the permanent exhibition in the Presidential Office, where he saw similar pictures of Taiwanese people fighting for democracy. He emphasized that not even one generation has passed since these events took place here in Taipei or similar events took place in Vilnius. Former Minister Landsbergis said that decision-makers in the Lithuanian government are either people who were themselves fighting for freedom, or, as in his case, those who were sitting on the shoulders of parents who were fighting for freedom. So for them, he underlined, freedom, democracy, liberty, and sovereignty are very real concepts that they cherish, not just things read about in a history book. He said that this is the main connector between Lithuania and Taiwan, a feeling of freedom and support for each other. Former Minister Landsbergis stated that in the face of authoritarians who do not wish us prosperity, who do not wish us freedom and future achievements, what he expects from the future is that the friendship, collaboration, and mutual support between Lithuania and Taiwan will inspire others to join in. This, he said, will make other countries not be afraid to support freedom and democracy, and will allow our group of friends to continue to grow. Lithuanian history, the former minister said, is difficult, and a big part of it was fighting for their freedom. He explained that during the 19th century when Lithuania was part of Russia’s empire, they had several revolutions and uprisings with the aim of becoming free, and that they were fighting for that freedom alongside Poland and Belarus. He then applied a phrase that they used in the revolution of 1864 – “for your freedom and ours,” meaning that they will continue to fight for their freedom while helping Taiwan fight for ours. Also in attendance at the ceremony were former Minister Landsbergis’ wife Dr. Austėja Landsbergienė and Lithuanian Representative to Taiwan Paulius Lukauskas.

    Details
    2025-01-17
    Presidential Office thanks White House for its statement on enduring US commitment to Indo-Pacific region
    On January 10 (US EST), the US White House released a statement on the United States’ Enduring Commitment to the Indo-Pacific Region, in which it reaffirms its position of using a range of methods to help Taiwan maintain a sufficient self-defense capability so as to maintain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and across the Taiwan Strait. Presidential Office Spokesperson Karen Kuo (郭雅慧) on January 11 expressed sincere gratitude to the US government for taking concrete actions to fulfill its security commitments to Taiwan, advancing the close Taiwan-US security partnership, and supporting Taiwan in its efforts to enhance its self-defense capabilities and resilience. Spokesperson Kuo stated that the deepening Taiwan-US security partnership is a critical cornerstone for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. She noted that Taiwan, as a force for good and regional stability, will continue to work alongside like-minded countries to strengthen defense resilience as we jointly defend the values of freedom and democracy and ensure the peace, stability, and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region.

    Details
    2025-01-17
    President Lai meets Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute delegation
    On the morning of January 9, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation from the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute (RRPFI). In remarks, President Lai thanked RRPFI President David Trulio and members of RRPFI for remaining undaunted by China’s threats and sanctions, and lending great support to Taiwan. He emphasized that facing the continued expansion of authoritarianism, Taiwan will actively implement the Four Pillars of Peace action plan to preserve regional peace and stability, safeguard the values of democracy and freedom, and advance worldwide prosperity and development. President Lai expressed hope that they can continue to collaborate to promote the development of Taiwan-United States relations and put RRPFI’s principles into practice. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: First, let me warmly welcome President Trulio, who is leading this delegation from RRPFI to Taiwan. And on behalf of all the people of Taiwan, I want to extend our heartfelt condolences in wake of the ongoing fires in California. I hope that they can be put out swiftly so that harm is reduced, and I hope that those who are injured are able to receive timely help. President Reagan was a staunch friend of Taiwan. The Six Assurances he put forward in 1982 and the Taiwan Relations Act passed by Congress in 1979 form the bedrock of Taiwan-US relations. The incorporation of the Six Assurances into the Asia Reassurance Initiative Act of 2018 further established bipartisan, bicameral, and cross-agency US support for Taiwan. With authoritarianism continuing to expand, President Reagan’s conviction of peace through strength is proving to be especially crucial as democracies unite to protect freedom, democracy, peace, and the rules-based international order. RRPFI honors President Reagan’s legacy by championing such principles as individual liberty, economic opportunity, global democracy, and national pride. Many of you have served previous US administrations as part of national security teams, and many of you are longstanding friends of Taiwan. I sincerely hope that we can continue to collaborate to promote the development of Taiwan-US relations and put RRPFI’s principles into practice. I also want to extend particular gratitude to President Trulio and RRPFI for lending great support to Taiwan. Undaunted by China’s threats and sanctions, you warmly welcomed former President Tsai Ing-wen to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library during her stopover in California in April 2023 and arranged a delegation to visit Taiwan in October of the same year. As for the continued expansion of authoritarianism, Taiwan will meet it head on, and uphold President Reagan’s spirit of peace through strength. We will actively implement the Four Pillars of Peace action plan by strengthening national defense, building economic security, and demonstrating stable and principled cross-strait leadership, as well as promoting values-based diplomacy. Bolstering Taiwan’s cooperation with the US and other democracies will preserve regional peace and stability, safeguard the values of democracy and freedom, and advance worldwide prosperity and development. President Trulio then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for his warm welcome and saying that he and the delegation are deeply honored to be with him in Taiwan, along with so many top leaders in his administration. President Trulio added that they are proud to advance President Reagan’s legacy and timeless principles, and our collective shared values. President Trulio indicated that President Reagan visited Taiwan twice before he became president. Acknowledging what President Lai stated, he noted that it was President Reagan’s administration that developed what became known as the Six Assurances, a framework that to this day serves as the foundation of relations between the US and Taiwan. More broadly, President Trulio said, President Reagan knew that America’s strength and the strength of its allies and friends are key to global peace, prosperity, and security. He said President Reagan also knew that societies that provide economic opportunity and democracy offer a better life for their citizens. In fact, he stated, President Reagan said that freedom is not the sole prerogative of a lucky few, but the inalienable and universal right of all human beings. President Trulio went on to say that Taiwan’s open society and thriving democracy make the commitment to freedom here plain for all to see. President Trulio noted that RRPFI had the honor of visiting Taipei in October 2023, when the delegation met then-President Tsai. He said that their return visit to Taipei at the start of 2025 comes at a crucial time, and that part of what makes that timing so significant is that there will be a new administration inaugurated in Washington in about 10 days. Over the course of their visits to Taiwan, President Trulio said, it has been plain to see that Taiwan stands strong as a vibrant democracy, with political parties sharing a commitment to democratic principles. He said it is also plain to see that Taiwan’s advanced economy and global technological leadership present positive opportunities for the US. He added that it is also plain to see that the security situation across the Taiwan Strait demands a continued commitment to peace through strength, including through robust partnership with Taiwan and sustained US deterrence. President Trulio stated that he looks forward to addressing the opportunities and challenges facing Taiwan and the US, and is confident that together, we will further well into the future our shared commitment to freedom and democracy, economic opportunity, and security and stability. The delegation also included RRPFI Washington Director Roger Zakheim, Director of the Alexander Hamilton Center for Classical and Civic Education at the University of Florida William Inboden, Palantir Technologies Senior Counselor Jamie Fly, former Deputy White House Staff Secretary Catherine Bellah, Anduril Industries Policy Director Dustin Walker, Hudson Institute Adjunct Fellow Alexander Benard, RRPFI Policy Director Rachel Hoff, and RRPFI Digital Strategy and Communications Director James Rogers.

    Details
    2025-01-01
    President Lai delivers 2025 New Year’s Address
    On the morning of January 1, President Lai Ching-te delivered his 2025 New Year’s Address, titled “Bolstering National Strength through Democracy to Enter a New Global Landscape,” in the Reception Hall of the Presidential Office. President Lai stated that today’s Taiwan is receiving international recognition for its performance in many areas, among them democracy, technology, and economy. In this new year, he said, Taiwan must be united, and we must continue on the right course. The president expressed hope that everyone in the central and local governments, regardless of party, can work hard together, allowing Taiwan sure footing as it strides forward toward ever greater achievements.  President Lai emphasized that in 2025, we must keep firm on the path of democracy, continue to bolster our national strength, make Taiwan more economically resilient, enhance the resilience of supply chains for global democracies, and continue working toward a Balanced Taiwan and generational justice, ensuring that the fruits of our economic growth can be enjoyed by all our people. The president said that Taiwan will keep going strong, and we will keep walking tall as we enter the new global landscape. A translation of President Lai’s address follows: Today is the first day of 2025. With a new year comes new beginnings. I wish that Taiwan enjoys peace, prosperity, and success, and that our people lead happy lives. Taiwan truly finished 2024 strong. Though there were many challenges, there were also many triumphs. We withstood earthquakes and typhoons, and stood firm in the face of constant challenges posed by authoritarianism. We also shared glory as Taiwan won the Premier12 baseball championship, and now Taiwanese people around the world are all familiar with the gesture for Team Taiwan. At the Paris Olympics, Wang Chi-lin (王齊麟) and Lee Yang (李洋) clinched another gold in men’s doubles badminton. Lin Yu-ting (林郁婷) took home Taiwan’s first Olympic gold in boxing. At the International Junior Science Olympiad, every student in our delegation of six won a gold medal. And Yang Shuang-zi’s (楊双子) novel Taiwan Travelogue, translated into English by King Lin (金翎), became a United States National Book Award winner and a tour de force of Taiwan literature on the international level. Our heroes of Taiwan are defined by neither age nor discipline. They have taken home top prizes at international competitions and set new records. They tell Taiwan’s story through their outstanding performances, letting the world see the spirit and culture of Taiwan, and filling all our citizens with pride. My fellow citizens, we have stood together through thick and thin; we have shared our ups and downs. We have wept together, and we have laughed together. We are all one family, all members of Team Taiwan. I want to thank each of our citizens for their dedication, fueling Taiwan’s progress and bringing our nation glory. You have given Taiwan even greater strength to stand out on the global stage. In this new year, we must continue bringing Taiwan’s stories to the world, and make Taiwan’s successes a force for global progress. In 2025, the world will be entering a new landscape. Last year, over 70 countries held elections, and the will of the people has changed with the times. As many countries turn new pages politically, and in the midst of rapid international developments, Taiwan must continue marching forward with steady strides. First, we must keep firm on the path of democracy. Taiwan made it through a dark age of authoritarianism and has since become a glorious beacon of democracy in Asia. This was achieved through the sacrifices of our democratic forebears and the joint efforts of all our citizens. Democracy’s value to Taiwan lies not just in our free way of life, or in the force driving the diverse and vigorous growth of our society. Democracy is the brand that has earned us international trust in terms of diplomacy. No matter the threat or challenge Taiwan may face, democracy is Taiwan’s only path forward. We will not turn back. Domestic competition among political parties is a part of democracy. But domestic political disputes must be resolved democratically, within the constitutional system. This is the only way democracy can continue to grow. The Executive Yuan has the right to request a reconsideration of the controversial bills passed in the Legislative Yuan, giving it room for reexamination. Constitutional institutions can also lodge a petition for a constitutional interpretation, and through Constitutional Court adjudication, ensure a separation of powers, safeguard constitutional order, and gradually consolidate the constitutional system. The people also have the right of election, recall, initiative, and referendum, and can bring together even greater democratic power to show the true meaning of sovereignty in the hands of the people. In this new year, the changing international landscape will present democratic nations around the world with many grave challenges. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and conflict between Israel and Hamas rage on, and we are seeing the continued convergence of authoritarian regimes including China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran, threatening the rules-based international order and severely affecting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and the world at large. Peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are essential components for global security and prosperity. Taiwan needs to prepare for danger in times of peace. We must continue increasing our national defense budget, bolster our national defense capabilities, and show our determination to protect our country. Everyone has a responsibility to safeguard Taiwan’s democracy and security. We must gather together every bit of strength we have to enhance whole-of-society defense resilience, and build capabilities to respond to major disasters and deter threats or encroachment. We must also strengthen communication with society to combat information and cognitive warfare, so that the populace rejects threats and enticements and jointly guards against malicious infiltration by external forces. Here at home, we must consolidate democracy with democracy. Internationally, we must make friends worldwide through democracy. This is how we will ensure security and peace. The more secure Taiwan, the more secure the world. The more resilient Taiwan, the sounder the defense of global democracy. The global democratic community should work even closer together to support the democratic umbrella as we seek ways to resolve the war in Ukraine and conflict between Israel and Hamas. Together, we must uphold stability in the Taiwan Strait and security in the Indo-Pacific, and achieve our goal of global peace. Second, we must continue to bolster our national strength, make Taiwan more economically resilient, and enhance the resilience of supply chains for global democracies. In the first half of 2024, growth in the Taiwan Stock Index was the highest in the world. Our economic growth rate for the year as a whole is expected to reach 4.2 percent, leading among the Four Asian Tigers. Domestic investment is soaring, having exceeded NT$5 trillion, and inflation is gradually stabilizing. Export orders from January to November totaled US$536.6 billion, up 3.7 percent from the same period in 2023. And compared over the same period, exports saw a 9.9 percent increase, reaching US$431.5 billion. Recent surveys also show that in 2024, the average increase in salaries at companies was higher than that in 2023. Additionally, over 90 percent of companies plan to raise salaries this year, which is an eight-year high. All signs indicate that Taiwan’s economic climate continues to recover, and that our economy is growing steadily. Our overall economic performance is impressive; still, we must continue to pay attention to the impact on Taiwan’s industries from the changing geopolitical landscape, uncertainties in the global economic environment, and dumping by the “red supply chain.”  For a nation, all sectors and professions are equally important; only when all our industries are strong can Taiwan be strong as a nation. Our micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) are the lifeblood of Taiwan, and the development of our various industrial parks has given Taiwan the impetus for our prosperity. We must carry the spirit of “Made in Taiwan” forward, bringing it to ever greater heights. Thus, beyond just developing our high-tech industry, our Executive Yuan has already proposed a solution that will help traditional industries and MSMEs comprehensively adopt technology applications, engage in the digital and net-zero twin transition, and develop channels, all for better operational structures and higher productivity. Taiwan must continue enhancing its economic resilience. In recent years, Taiwan has significantly increased its investments in the US, Japan, Europe, and the New Southbound countries, and such investment has already surpassed investment in China. This indicates that our efforts in diversifying markets and reducing reliance on any single market are working. Moving forward, we must keep providing assistance so that Taiwan industries can expand their global presence and market internationally from a solid base here in Taiwan. At the same time, Taiwan must use democracy to promote economic growth with the rest of the world. We must leverage our strengths in the semiconductor and AI industries. We must link with democratic countries so that we can together enhance the resilience of supply chains for global democracies. And through international cooperation across many sectors, such as UAVs, low-orbit communications satellites, robots, military, security and surveillance, or biopharmaceuticals, renewable energy technology, new agriculture, and the circular economy, we must keep abreast of the latest cutting-edge technology and promote diverse development. This approach will help Taiwan remain a leader in advancing global democratic supply chains, ensuring their security and stability. Third, we must continue working toward a Balanced Taiwan and generational justice, ensuring that the fruits of our economic growth can be enjoyed by all our people. Democracy means the people have the final say. Our nation belongs to all 23 million of us, without regard for ethnic group, generation, political party, or whether we live in urban or rural areas. In this new year, we must continue to pursue policies that promote the well-being of the nation and the people. But to that end, the central government needs adequate financial resources to ensure that it can enact each of these measures. Therefore, I hope that the ruling and opposition parties can each soberly reconsider the amendments to the Act Governing the Allocation of Government Revenues and Expenditures and find a path forward that ensures the lasting peace and stability of our country. For nine consecutive years, the minimum wage has continued to rise. Effective today, the minimum monthly salary is being raised from NT$27,470 to NT$28,590, and the hourly salary from NT$183 to NT$190. We hope by raising the pay for military personnel, civil servants, and educators for two consecutive years, coupled with benefits through wage increases and tax reductions, that private businesses will also raise wages, allowing all our people to enjoy the fruits of our economic growth. I know that everyone wants to pay lower taxes and rent. This year, we will continue to promote tax reductions. For example, unmarried individuals with an annual income of NT$446,000 or less can be exempt from paying income tax. Dual-income families with an annual income of NT$892,000 or less and dual-income families with two children aged six or younger with an annual income of NT$1,461,000 or less are also exempt from paying income tax. Additionally, the number of rent-subsidized housing units will also be increased, from 500,000 to 750,000 units, helping lighten the load for everyone. This year, the age eligibility for claiming Culture Points has been lowered from 16 to 13 years, so that now young people aged between 13 and 22 can receive government support for experiencing more in the arts. Also, our Taiwan Global Pathfinders Initiative is about to take effect, which will help more young people in Taiwan realize their dreams by taking part in education and exchange activities in many places around the world. We are also in the process of establishing a sports ministry to help young athletes achieve their dreams on the field, court, and beyond. The ministry will also be active in developing various sports industries and bringing sports and athletics more into the lives of the people, making our people healthier as a result. This year, as Taiwan becomes a “super-aged society,” we will launch our Long-term Care 3.0 Plan to provide better all-around care for our seniors. And we will expand the scope of cancer screening eligibility and services, all aimed at creating a Healthy Taiwan. In addition, Taiwan will officially begin collecting fees for its carbon fee system today. This brings us closer in line with global practices and helps us along the path to our goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. We will also continue on the path to achieving a Balanced Taiwan. Last month, the Executive Yuan launched the Trillion NT Dollar Investment National Development Plan and its six major regional flagship projects. Both of these initiatives will continue to expand the investment in our public infrastructure and the development of local specialty industries, narrowing urban-rural and wealth gaps so that all our people can live and work in peace and happiness. My fellow citizens, today’s Taiwan is receiving international recognition for its performance in many areas, among them democracy, technology, and economy. This tells us that national development is moving in the right direction. In this new year, Taiwan must be united, and we must continue on the right course. We hope that everyone in the central and local governments, regardless of party, can work hard together to ensure that national policies are successfully implemented, with the people’s well-being as our top priority. This will allow Taiwan sure footing as it strides forward toward ever greater achievements. In this new year, we have many more brilliant stories of Taiwan to share with the world, inspiring all Taiwanese, both here and around the world, to cheer time and again for the glory of Taiwan. Taiwan will keep going strong. And we will keep walking tall as we enter the new global landscape. Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: African Mining Week (AMW) to Showcase Africa’s Rising Investment Potential in the Mining Sector

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    CAPE TOWN, South Africa, January 31, 2025/APO Group/ —

    International investments in Africa’s mining sector are surging as global demand for both traditional and emerging minerals continues to grow. For example, Australian mining firms saw their asset value in Africa reach $60 billion in 2024, while Canadian firms’ assets climbed to $37 billion. China also launched an ambitious $50 billion, three-year investment strategy targeting increased stakes in Africa’s most lucrative opportunities including in the mining sector.

    The upcoming African Mining Week Summit, scheduled for October 1 – 3 in Cape Town, will highlight profitable opportunities within Africa’s mining industry and reinforce the continent’s attractiveness as an investment destination for global mining financiers.

    Untapped Mineral Deposits

    Africa’s vast, untapped mineral resources present potential for new investments. The continent holds 30% of the world’s critical minerals (https://apo-opa.co/3ClkUGd) essential for the energy transition, including the largest global reserves of cobalt (in the Democratic Republic of Congo) and over 80% of the world’s platinum group metals in South Africa. The continent accounts for more than 44% of global diamond production, while its share of the gold market continues to grow, with markets such as Ghana, Mali and Zimbabwe ramping up production.

    Supportive Policies and Investor-Friendly Terms

    African governments are enhancing the investment climate within the mining industry by enacting new policies and modernizing fiscal terms to streamline processes and reduce delays in project rollouts. Zambia, for instance, introduced a New Mining Tax Regime in 2023, improving transparency and reducing tax evasion, as the country targets a copper production target of three million tons by 2032. Mali has also experienced increased investment flows following its 2023 Mining Code, with global players such as HummingGold, B2Gold and Ganfeng committing to new lithium and gold projects. Malawi has also taken steps to attract investments by launching its Mining Regulatory Authority in October 2024, supported by the Mines and Minerals Act of 2023.

    Improved Mining and Export Infrastructure

    African nations are enhancing cooperation with global partners to improve mining production and mineral transportation infrastructure. For example, investment firm Africa Finance Corporation has announced that the Zambia-Lobito Railway project will commence (https://apo-opa.co/3Q0RcJL) construction in early 2026, to facilitate the efficient and cost-effective transportation of critical minerals from East and Southern Africa to global markets. Upgrades to the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (https://apo-opa.co/3PXFeAE) and South Africa’s modernization of ports through freight operator, Transnet, are further enhancing the region’s mining investment prospects.

    Rich Mining History

    Africa’s established history as a global mining hub has fostered the development of key infrastructure and a skilled workforce that international mining firms rely on to meet global mineral demand. Mining remains a cornerstone of many African economies, attracting both traditional and emerging players keen to expand their operations and leverage the continent’s resources. With its rich deposits and ongoing improvements in policy and infrastructure, Africa maintains its position as a key investment destination for the global mining industry.

    African Mining Week will serve as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energy 2025 conference (https://apo-opa.co/4htJMdI) from October 1 -3. in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: African Development Bank Partners with AXIAN Telecom to Accelerate Africa’s Digital Transformation

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast, January 31, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) has approved a $160 million senior corporate loan to support AXIAN Telecom to expand digital access and financial inclusion in nine African countries. The loan will accelerate the modernization and expansion of AXIAN Telecom‘s network infrastructure, with a focus on 4G and 5G deployment; while also driving digital innovation in its operations, enabling them to expand to more countries.

    AXIAN Telecom, headquartered in Mauritius, serves 42.9 million mobile subscribers, 11.4 million data users, and 15.2 million mobile financial service users, positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s digital transformation.

    A key focus of the funding is to address gender disparities in access to financial services. Over $10 million will be dedicated to empowering 22,000 women entrepreneurs in Madagascar through AXIAN’s Mvola platform. Additionally, a $2.5 million grant will enhance financial literacy and credit access for 34,000 women businesses across Madagascar, Tanzania, and Senegal, enabling them to grow and transition into the formal economy.

    Highlighting the initiative’s importance, the African Development Bank’s Vice President for Private Sector, Infrastructure and Industrialization, Solomon Quaynor, said: “This investment reflects the African Development Bank’s commitment to driving Africa’s digital transformation and fostering inclusive growth. By supporting AXIAN Telecom’s growth plan, we are bridging the digital divide, creating opportunities for millions across the continent, and fostering innovation.”

    Quaynor described the African Development Bank’s support as part of a partnership to accelerate progress, advance financial inclusion—particularly for women—and drive sustainable development, adding, “Together, we are building the infrastructure and ecosystems that will enable Africa to thrive in the digital age.”

    AXIAN Telecom CEO, Hassan Jaber said, “We are honoured to partner with an organisation that shares our vision of advancing Africa’s digital economy. The funding from the African Development Bank not only underscores the immense digital potential of the continent but also highlights the critical role of collaboration in driving sustainable development.”

    Jabaer emphasized that the support from the African Development Bank will build on the company’s ongoing initiatives, such as expanding affordable internet access and fostering innovative solutions to bridge the digital divide. while aligning seamlessly with the recent transformation of our mobile businesses under the Yas brand (http://apo-opa.co/4hx2sd7).

    « Yas represents our commitment to empowering a young, dynamic, and digitally connected population, embracing every opportunity with a resounding ‘YES.’ Together, this collaboration will help drive meaningful change across Africa’s digital landscape, furthering our shared mission of digital and financial inclusion,” he added.

    The partnership aligns with the African Development Bank’s “Hi-5” development priorities, particularly “Industrialize Africa” and “Integrate Africa”, which enhance connectivity, foster cross-border digital services, and support financial inclusion.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: World Health Organization (WHO) delivers critical support to Bugna Woreda and surroundings amid humanitarian needs

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    Download logo

    Bugna woreda, Amhara region, located in Ethiopia’s North Zone, has faced significant challenges due to prolonged conflict, drought, and food insecurity. Home to over 100,000 residents, endured over a year without access to essential commodities, medical supplies, and support, leaving its population in a dire state.  The conflict’s impact was devastating, with farmers unable to access fertilizer for the 2024 farming season, exacerbating food insecurity in an area already grappling with drought.

    Recognizing the urgent need for intervention, WHO mobilized resources and personnel to support Bugna Woreda and provided PED SAM kits, IEHK kits and Trauma kits support from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), the European Union (ECHO) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The efforts focused on improving access to essential health and nutrition services, providing critical medical supplies, and supporting vaccination campaigns. WHO worked closely with local health authorities to strengthen the capacity of health centers and health posts, ensuring that they can better serve the community despite the challenging conditions.

     WHO donated medical supplies

    Items

    Sum of Total

    (IEHK 2017, BASIC) MODULE, MALARIA

    36

    (IEHK 2017, BASIC) MODULE, MEDICINES

    36

    (IEHK 2017, BASIC) MODULE, RENEWABLE AND EQUIPMENT

    12

    (IEHK 2017, SUPPLEMENTARY) MODULE, MALARIA

    5

    (IEHK 2017, SUPPLEMENTARY) MODULE, RENEWABLE

    7

    (IEHK 2021, SUPPLEMENTARY) MODULE, PEP, treatments for 50 adults + 10 children

    5

    (Kit PED-SAM 2020) MODULE 2, MEDICINES PED ORAL

    12

    (Kit PED-SAM 2020) MODULE 3, MEDICINES PED INJECTABLES

    12

    (Kit PED-SAM 2020) MODULE 6, RENEWABLES

    6

    (TESK 2019 mod 1A) SET 1A5, DRUGS, DANGEROUS GOODS

    4

    (TESK 2019 mod 1A) SET 1A6, DRUGS, INFUSIONS

    2

    (TESK 2019 mod 1A) SET 1A7, DRUGS, DISINFECTANTS

    6

    (TESK 2019 mod 1B) SET 1B3, RENEWABLES, INJECTION MATERIAL

    6

    Despite operational hardships, healthcare workers remained at their posts, showing immense resilience and dedication to their community.

    WHO’s support was crucial in mitigating the impacts of the access challenge. It provided much-needed medical, allowing health facilities to procure essential items and pay their workers. WHO also advocated for sustained humanitarian access to Bugna Woreda, ensuring that the flow of supplies continued uninterrupted.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Ethiopia.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi’s article on family ties, education, values to be published

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    An article by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, which stresses the importance of family ties, family education and family values and traditions, will be published on Saturday.
    The article by Xi, also Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, will be published in this year’s third issue of the Qiushi Journal, a flagship magazine of the CPC Central Committee. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: ‘Reel justice’: a unique collaboration between university filmmakers and police

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Adam Smith, Senior Consultant, Universal Impact

    How can universities build better relationships with the communities around them? Academia is increasingly considering this question. And finding innovative ways to demonstrate value and connect with wider society.

    This was on my mind when I learnt about a fascinating collaboration between the police and aspiring, young filmmakers at the University of Sunderland, which shows the power of research as a tool for public good.

    I world for Universal Impact, The Conversation’s commercial subsidiary, and recently travelled to the northeast to give a training course to University of Sunderland researchers on how to identify, and communicate with, different audiences for their work.

    Whenever we work with academics, I’m reminded of the quality and diversity of research taking place all around us – stretching, in this case, from preventing liver damage to boosting performance in modern pentathlon.

    We built on the training course with a mentoring programme for a group of researchers including Adelle Hulsmeier, who leads the university’s screen performance BA programme.

    I’m a bit of a movie buff. So I was interested to learn about the unique initiative Adelle runs, bringing together young people and police around an unexpected common ground – film.

    Here’s how it works. Northumberland Police suggests themes, students make short films inspired by those themes, and the films are then used as education and training resources.

    Like many of my favourite directors, Adelle believes it’s possible to address some of the most pressing social issues through storytelling.

    A new approach

    The project comes as public trust in the police is in decline, particularly among members of Gen Z (broadly, those born between 1996 and 2010).

    Children and young people are also disproportionately affected by crime, often as victims of the most serious offences. But these films offer an opportunity to change the narrative.

    And as the Labour government is proposing “respect orders” to address the UK’s 6.7 million annual offences — which cost taxpayers £58.9 billion in 2023-24 — this novel approach seems particularly timely.

    Over the past 11 years, more than 1,000 students have worked on at least 50 films, covering topics such as sexual exploitation, domestic violence, male rape and “county lines” drugs trafficking.

    The films’ influence extends far beyond the university. They have been integrated into training programmes for police officers, healthcare workers, teachers and other professionals.

    Community engagement

    The collaboration was born of a desire to make issues of crime and policing widely accessible, with Adelle striving to bridge the gap between academic learning and societal impact.

    In 2019, the project received the Collaborative Award for Teaching Excellence from Advance Higher Education, recognising the initiative’s outstanding contribution to education and community engagement.

    The programme has also been praised by former Labour MP and Victims’ Commissioner Dame Vera Baird, who described the films as an effective way for the police to “transmit messages in a way that we cannot”.

    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    Meanwhile, the project is also an opportunity for students to develop critical skills and gain invaluable industry experience.

    By empowering students to tackle real world social issues, the University of Sunderland is not only preparing them for the future but also helping to shape a safer, more empathetic world.

    This partnership is a testament to the mutual benefits that come from universities and public sector organisations working collectively towards common goals that support their local communities.

    At Universal Impact, we offer specialist training, mentoring and research communication services – donating profits back to The Conversation, our parent charity. If you’re a researcher or research institution and you’re interested in working together, please get in touch – or subscribe to our weekly newsletter to find out more.

    – ref. ‘Reel justice’: a unique collaboration between university filmmakers and police – https://theconversation.com/reel-justice-a-unique-collaboration-between-university-filmmakers-and-police-248619

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Results of the ECB Survey of Professional Forecasters for the first quarter of 2025

    Source: European Central Bank

    31 January 2025

    • Headline inflation expectations revised up for 2025 but otherwise unchanged; longer-term expectations (for 2029) remain at 2.0%
    • Expectations for HICP inflation excluding energy and food unchanged for 2025 and 2026; longer-term expectations revised down slightly to 1.9%
    • Real GDP growth expectations revised down by 0.2 and 0.1 percentage points for 2025 and 2026 respectively, but longer-term expectations unrevised
    • Unemployment rate expectations unchanged for 2025 and 2026, but longer-term expectations revised down slightly

    Respondents’ expectations for headline inflation, as measured by the Harmonised Index of Consumer Prices (HICP), were 2.1% for 2025, 1.9% for 2026 and 2.0% for 2027. Expectations were revised up from the previous survey (conducted in the fourth quarter of 2024) by 0.2 percentage points for 2025 but unchanged for 2026. Expectations for core HICP inflation, which excludes energy and food, were unchanged for 2025 and 2026. Longer-term expectations for headline inflation were unchanged at 2.0%, while those for core HICP inflation were revised down slightly to 1.9%.

    Respondents expected real GDP growth of 1.0% in 2025 and 1.3% in both 2026 and 2027. Compared with the previous survey, expectations were revised down by 0.2 percentage points for 2025 and 0.1 percentage points for 2026. Economic policy and political uncertainty contributed to these revisions. Longer-term growth expectations remained unchanged at 1.3%.

    The expected profile of the unemployment rate was largely unchanged. Respondents continued to expect the unemployment rate to average 6.5% in 2025 but to decline to 6.4% in 2026, and then to fall further to 6.3% in 2027 and to remain there in the longer term.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ECB Consumer Expectations Survey results – December 2024

    Source: European Central Bank

    31 January 2025

    Compared with November 2024:

    • median consumer perceptions of inflation over the previous 12 months increased for the second consecutive month, as did median inflation expectations for the next 12 months, while median inflation expectations for three years ahead remained unchanged;
    • expectations for nominal income growth over the next 12 months remained unchanged, as did expectations for spending growth over the next 12 months;
    • expectations for economic growth over the next 12 months were unchanged, while the expected unemployment rate in 12 months’ time decreased;
    • expectations for growth in the price of homes over the next 12 months remained unchanged, as did expectations for mortgage interest rates 12 months ahead.

    Inflation

    The median rate of perceived inflation over the previous 12 months increased in December, for the second month in a row, to 3.5%, from 3.4% in November. Median expectations for inflation over the next 12 months increased, for the third month in a row, to 2.8% from 2.6%. Median expectations for inflation three years ahead were unchanged at 2.4% in December. Inflation expectations at the one-year and three-year horizons thus remained below the perceived past inflation rate. Uncertainty about inflation expectations over the next 12 months remained unchanged, for the fifth month in a row, at its lowest level since February 2022. While the broad evolution of inflation perceptions and expectations remained relatively closely aligned across income groups, expectations for lower income quintiles were slightly above those for higher income quintiles. Younger respondents (aged 18-34) continued to report lower inflation perceptions and expectations than older respondents (those aged 35-54 and 55-70), albeit to a lesser degree than in previous years. (Inflation results)

    Income and consumption

    Consumers’ nominal income growth expectations over the next 12 months remained unchanged at 1.1% in December. The income growth expectations of the lower income quintile increased more than the expectations of all other income quintiles, widening the positive gap with the other quintiles that had emerged over the previous months. Perceived nominal spending growth over the previous 12 months remained unchanged at 5.2% in December, as did expected nominal spending growth over the next 12 months at 3.5%. (Income and consumption results)

    Economic growth and labour market

    Economic growth expectations for the next 12 months were stable in December, standing at -1.3%. Expectations for the unemployment rate 12 months ahead decreased to 10.5%, from 10.6% in November. Consumers continued to expect the future unemployment rate to be only slightly higher than the perceived current unemployment rate (9.9%), implying a broadly stable labour market. The lowest income quintile continued to report the highest expected and perceived unemployment rates, as well as the lowest economic growth expectations. (Economic growth and labour market results)

    Housing and credit access

    Consumers expected the price of their home to increase by 2.9% over the next 12 months, which was unchanged from November. Households in the lowest income quintile continued to expect higher growth in house prices than those in the highest income quintile (3.5% and 2.7% respectively). Expectations for mortgage interest rates 12 months ahead also remained unchanged, at 4.6% – their level since October 2024. As in previous months, the lowest income households expected the highest mortgage interest rates 12 months ahead (5.2%), while the highest income households expected the lowest rates (4.0%). While the net percentage of households reporting a tightening (relative to those reporting an easing) in access to credit over the previous 12 months increased slightly, the net percentage of those expecting a tightening over the next 12 months declined. (Housing and credit access results)

    The release of the Consumer Expectations Survey (CES) results for January is scheduled for 28 February 2025.

    For media queries, please contact: Nicos Keranis, Tel: +49 172 758 7237

    Notes

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Fewer Rain Days In The First Fortnight Of February 2025

    Source: Asia Pacific Region 2 – Singapore

    Singapore, 31 January 2025 – The prevailing Northeast Monsoon conditions are forecast to continue, with winds blowing mainly from the northwest or northeast.

    2        In the first fortnight of February 2025, fair and occasionally windy conditions may occur on some days. Fewer rain days are expected, although there may be localised short-duration thundery showers over parts of the island on several afternoons. The total rainfall for the first fortnight of February 2025 is forecast to be below average over most parts of the island.

    3        The daily maximum temperatures are likely to range between 33 degrees Celsius and 34 degrees Celsius on most days and slightly exceed 34 degrees Celsius on a few days.

    4        For updates of the daily weather forecast, please visit the MSS website (www.weather.gov.sg), NEA website (www.nea.gov.sg), or download the myENV app.

    REVIEW OF THE PAST TWO WEEKS (16 – 30 JANUARY 2025)

    5        Northeast Monsoon conditions prevailed over Singapore and the surrounding region in the second fortnight of January 2025. During the period, the low-level winds blew mainly from the north or northeast.

    6      Showers fell over parts of the island on most afternoons in the second fortnight of January 2025. On 17 – 19 January 2025, a surge of north-easterly winds (or monsoon surge [1]) over the South China Sea brought occasional spells of showers over Singapore and the surrounding region. On 26 January 2025, heavy thundery showers fell over the southern and western parts of Singapore in the afternoon. The daily total rainfall of 75.2 mm recorded at Sunset Way that day was the highest rainfall recorded for the second fortnight of January 2025.

    7        The daily maximum temperatures in the second fortnight of January 2025 were below 31 degrees Celsius on most days. The highest daily maximum temperature of 32.4 degree Celsius was recorded at Newton on 25 January 2025.

    8        Singapore recorded well below average rainfall in the second fortnight of January 2025. The area around Sembawang registered rainfall of about 84 per cent below average.

     

    CLIMATE STATION STATISTICS

      Long-term Statistics for February
      (Climatological reference period: 1991-2020)
    Average daily maximum temperature: 31.5      °C
    Average daily minimum temperature: 24.6 °C
    Average monthly temperature: 27.3 °C
         
    Average rainfall: 105.1 mm
    Average number of rain days: 9  
    Historical Extremes for February
      (Rainfall since 1869 and temperature since 1929)
    Highest monthly mean daily maximum temperature: 33.5  °C (2010)
    Lowest monthly mean daily minimum temperature: 21.6  °C (1930, 1934)
         
    Highest monthly rainfall ever recorded:  566.7  mm (1910)
    Lowest monthly rainfall ever recorded: 0.2  mm (2014)

    [1] A monsoon surge refers to a strengthening of winds over the South China Sea, causing extensive rainclouds to form over our surrounding region.

     

    METEOROLOGICAL SERVICE SINGAPORE

    31 Jan 2025

    ~~ End ~~

    For more information, please submit your enquiries electronically via the Online Feedback Form or myENV mobile application. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man charged with 2023 murder in Tottenham

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives investigating the murder of Talip Guzel in Tottenham have charged two people as part of their investigation.

    Jan Mercan – 23 (07.08.01) of Rushey Hill, EN2 was charged on Thursday, 30 January with murder and possession of a prohibited weapon.

    Stanislava Kukusheva – 35 (04.02.89) of Compton Crescent, N17 was charged on Thursday, 30 January with perverting the course of justice; assisting an offender and possession of a prohibited weapon.

    Both will appear in custody at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 31 January.

    The pair were arrested by detectives as part of an ongoing investigation into the murder of Talip Guzel, 33, who died after being shot at an address in White Hart Lane, N17 on 30 July 2023.

    His family have been informed of the update.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: SBM Offshore completes the Share Purchase Agreements with MISC Berhad

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Amsterdam, January 31, 2025

    SBM Offshore confirms it has completed the transactions related to the Share Purchase Agreements announced on September 6, 2024 with its partner MISC Berhad for:

    i)   the acquisition of MISC Berhad’s entire effective equity interest in the lease and operating entities related to the FPSO Espirito Santo in Brazil; and

    ii)   the full divestment to MISC Berhad of SBM Offshore’s effective equity interest in the lease and operating entities of the FPSO Kikeh in Malaysia.

    This transaction furthers SBM Offshore’s efforts to rationalize our portfolio to ‘maintain focus and excellence’ of our operations.        

    Corporate Profile

    SBM Offshore is the world’s deepwater ocean-infrastructure expert. Through the design, construction, installation, and operation of offshore floating facilities, we play a pivotal role in a just transition. By advancing our core, we deliver cleaner, more efficient energy production. By pioneering more, we unlock new markets within the blue economy. 
    More than 7,400 SBMers collaborate worldwide to deliver innovative solutions as a responsible partner towards a sustainable future, balancing ocean protection with progress.
    For further information, please visit our website at www.sbmoffshore.com.

    Financial Calendar   Date Year
    Full Year 2024 Earnings   February 20 2025
    Annual General Meeting   April 9 2025
    First Quarter 2025 Trading Update   May 15 2025
    Half Year 2025 Earnings   August 7 2025
    Third Quarter 2025 Trading Update   November 13 2025

    For further information, please contact:
    Investor Relations

    Wouter Holties
    Corporate Finance & Investor Relations Manager

    Media Relations

    Giampaolo Arghittu
    Head of External Relations

    Market Abuse Regulation
    This press release may contain inside information within the meaning of Article 7(1) of the EU Market Abuse Regulation.

    Disclaimer
    Some of the statements contained in this release that are not historical facts are statements of future expectations and other forward-looking statements based on management’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance, or events to differ materially from those in such statements. These statements may be identified by words such as ‘expect’, ‘should’, ‘could’, ‘shall’ and similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties. The principal risks which could affect the future operations of SBM Offshore N.V. are described in the ‘Impact, Risk and Opportunity Management’ section of the 2023 Annual Report.

    Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results and performance of the Company’s business may vary materially and adversely from the forward-looking statements described in this release. SBM Offshore does not intend and does not assume any obligation to update any industry information or forward-looking statements set forth in this release to reflect new information, subsequent events or otherwise.

    This release contains certain alternative performance measures (APMs) as defined by the ESMA guidelines which are not defined under IFRS. Further information on these APMs is included in the Half-Year Management Report accompanying the Half Year Earnings 2024 report, available on our website https://www.sbmoffshore.com/investors/financial-disclosures.

    Nothing in this release shall be deemed an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities. The companies in which SBM Offshore N.V. directly and indirectly owns investments are separate legal entities. In this release “SBM Offshore” and “SBM” are sometimes used for convenience where references are made to SBM Offshore N.V. and its subsidiaries in general. These expressions are also used where no useful purpose is served by identifying the particular company or companies.

    “SBM Offshore®“, the SBM logomark, “Fast4Ward®”, “emissionZERO®” and “F4W®” are proprietary marks owned by SBM Offshore.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: 2025 Presidential Elections in Belarus: joint statement to the OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The UK and other members of the Informal Group of Friends of Democratic Belarus deliver a joint statement on elections in Belarus and the deteriorating human rights situation.

    I am delivering this statement on behalf of the following participating States, who are members of the Informal Group of Friends of Democratic Belarus:  Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Czechia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Iceland,  Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Montenegro, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Ukraine, the United Kingdom and my own country, Germany.  

    The following participating States are also joining this statement: Albania, Andorra, Austria, Bosnia, Liechtenstein, Malta, San Marino, Switzerland and North Macedonia.    

    At Copenhagen in 1990, all OSCE participating States declared that “the will of the people, freely and fairly expressed through periodic and genuine elections, is the basis of the authority and legitimacy of all government”.  

    The presidential elections in Belarus on 26 January fell far short of this shared standard. Instead of reflecting multi-party democracy, accountability of government to the electorate or the free and fair expression of citizens’ will, this election outcome was pre-determined by the Belarusian government. The poll was carried out in a climate of fear and repression where opposition was silenced. Moreover, Belarusians were denied access to information from independent, pluralistic media.  

    Repression intensified in the pre-election period. While some political prisoners have been released, Belarus continues to detain many more. Over 1,250 people remain incarcerated. Many political prisoners face isolation, mistreatment and lack of medical treatment. The UN Committee against Torture reported that torture in these prisons is systemic, habitual, widespread and deliberate with a pattern of impunity for perpetrators. Last year, four political prisoners died behind bars.   

    The arrest and persecution of journalists and media professionals has also reached an all-time high; the Belarusian Association of Journalists notes that 42 media workers were imprisoned in the run up to election day.  

    We deplore Belarus’ involvement and complicity in Russia’s unprovoked, unjustifiable and illegal war of aggression against Ukraine and condemn the serious, ongoing human rights violations committed by the Belarusian authorities. We reiterate our call for the Belarusian authorities to release all political prisoners, immediately and unconditionally, and to ensure their rehabilitation. 

    No election can be considered as free and fair or meeting international standards when it is held in a climate of ongoing repression, marked by continuous pressure on civil society, arbitrary detentions and widespread human rights violations, as well as restrictions of any genuine political participation and a lack of credible opposition candidates.   

    We recall that ODIHR made efforts in recent months to engage with the Belarusian authorities on election observation, in line with Belarus’ commitment at Copenhagen in 1990.     

    The Belarusian authorities’ late invitation – delivered only ten days before the presidential elections – prevented ODIHR’s access to key stages of the election process, making meaningful observation impossible. It stands as further proof that this electoral process lacked transparency and credibility.     

    Sadly, this approach to OSCE commitments is wholly consistent with earlier decisions by Belarus. As well as preventing meaningful observation of these elections, Belarus failed to invite OSCE observation of the February 2024 parliamentary elections. Nor has Belarus made progress on the recommendations of either the 2020 or 2023 Moscow Mechanism reports, or responded meaningfully to the questions raised in the 2024 Vienna Mechanism.  

    Indeed, since the fraudulent presidential election of 2020, Belarusian authorities have engaged in a brutal crackdown on opposition figures, human rights defenders, civil society representatives, journalists, and other citizens who dare voice any opposition or dissent. Human rights defenders report over 70,000 cases of repression since 2020. These range from interrogations, detentions or searches to legislative amendments, labelling and prosecuting some human rights defenders as so-called “extremists” and closing NGOs as well as forced exile and confiscation of property.   

    In the face of this utter disregard of OSCE principles and commitments by the Belarusian authorities, we underscore the right of Belarusians to determine their own future in a genuinely free and fair manner, and to be able to do so without fear, oppression and external interference. In this Council and beyond, we will continue to support the Belarusian people’s hope for a free, democratic and independent Belarus.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft Discovers New Archaeological Monuments

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    During 2024, archaeological teams from the Company’s scientific institute in Samara discovered 13 new archaeological sites in the Samara and Orenburg regions and carried out measures to ensure their preservation.

    Rosneft cares about the preservation of historical and cultural heritage and, in accordance with Russian legislation, conducts archaeological surveys at the pre-project stage during any construction work.

    In total, in 2024, the institute’s specialists surveyed 294 land plots allocated for economic development by the companies Samaraneftegaz and Orenburgneft (production assets of Rosneft).

    In the areas where the work was carried out, 36 cultural heritage sites were discovered, including 13 archaeological sites that had not previously been recorded in historical sources and documents. Among them were four single burial mounds and eight burial mounds, as well as one settlement belonging to the Srubna culture*. In the course of determining the boundaries of cultural heritage sites, archaeologists extracted more than 200 finds – fragments of ornamented ceramic dishes and bones of domestic animals.

    In addition, the institute’s archaeologists clarified the boundaries of previously identified cultural heritage sites – burial mound VIII near the village of Pogromnoye in the Orenburg Region, as well as the burial mound Nesmeyanovka I in the Samara Region. During the survey of the latter, eight previously unaccounted burial mounds were found; the complex currently includes 27 burial mounds.

    * The Srubnaya cultural and historical community is an archaeological culture of the Late Bronze Age (18th-13th centuries BC). Geographically, it was widespread in the steppe and forest-steppe belts of Eastern Europe between the Dnieper and the Urals. In the Volga region and the Urals, the culture is widely represented by archaeological sites: settlements and burial mounds. Ethnicity: Indo-Iranians. The main activities of the representatives of the Srubnaya culture are cattle breeding and agriculture.

    Reference:

    Archaeological teams have been working at the Rosneft Samara Research Institute since 2019. Over five years, specialists have surveyed over 1,600 land plots for planned facilities, determined the boundaries and registered 193 archaeological sites (settlements, single burial mounds, burial mounds) with the state, and another 173 cultural heritage sites have undergone preservation monitoring and inspection.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft January 31, 2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnic athletes successfully start the new year

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    The Polytechnic University athletes started 2025 actively. They won several victories: in rally, hockey, basketball and mini-football.

    The Polytechnic team won the team classification at the Karelia rally. The race took place in the Sortavala area and included technical three-dimensional special stages. Dmitry and Elena Nikonchuk took second place in the overall classification in a BMW 330. The first two places in the 2000N classification were shared between the pair Andrey Zhukovsky – Konstantin Mukhamendrikov in a Fiesta and the pair Alexander Solovyov – Andrey Strizhich in a VAZ-2108.

    The men’s futsal team also pleased with its success. The Polytechnics beat the team of the Mining Institute with a score of 3:2 and the LETI athletes with a score of 6:0.

    The SPbPU hockey team started the year confidently, winning three victories. In the game with the Northern Sapsan team, the Polytechnicians missed two goals in the first five minutes, but were able to pull themselves together and won with a minimal advantage – 3:2. The match with the Sea Wolves was also exciting. The Polytechnicians outplayed their opponents in the first two periods, but lost the initiative in the third period, almost missing out on victory. The game ended with a score of 4:3. In the end, our athletes confidently beat the hockey players from SPbSU with a score of 9:4.

    The girls from the SPbPU basketball team also started the year with a victory. They defeated the RANEPA team with a score of 79:32.

    The Polytechnic University team took part in the Spartakiad “Health – 2025”. In the mini-football competition among teachers and employees of universities, the Polytechnic University showed the second result.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnicians – International Experts in the Presidential Elections in Belarus

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    Another presidential election was held in Belarus. The current head of the country, Alexander Lukashenko, won. The turnout was 85.7% of the total number of those included in the voting list. Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University is associated with the republic not only by decades of joint scientific and educational projects, but also by the historical unity of fraternal peoples, notes the rector of SPbPU Andrei Rudskoy. Andrei Ivanovich heads the expert council on science and education at the IPA CIS. The council’s activities have been noted at the highest level, and its experts are invited to interstate commissions.

    On behalf of the Rector of SPbPU, the Director of the Higher School of Jurisprudence and Forensic Science Dmitry Mokhorov (deputy of the Academic SPb Municipal Assembly, deputy chairman of the expert council on science and education at the IPA CIS) acted as a scientific expert in the mission of the monitoring group of the CIS IPA at the elections of the President of the Republic of Belarus.

    Interacting with those responsible for organizing the elections and residents of Belarus, Dmitry Mokhorov noted: “It is gratifying to see the hospitality with which Belarusians greet guests, and when they hear “Leningrad Polytechnic” (Peter’s Polytechnic), everyone congratulates them on the 81st anniversary of the liberation of Leningrad from the fascist blockade and the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War. The warmth of the fraternal people, who have first-hand experience of the atrocities of fascism, fills communication with joy, and it becomes clear that Belarusians will not allow interference in the democratic development of their country. The holiday that election day has become for the Belarusian people has shown the true free will of an independent state — the Republic of Belarus.”

    Secretary General of the IPA CIS Council Dmitry Kobitsky noted that the mission included experienced observers – representatives of the parliaments of the CIS states and experts of the International Institute for Monitoring Democracy Development of the IPA CIS. Scientists and specialists, together with parliamentarians, carried out long-term and short-term monitoring of the elections.

    This made it possible to conduct a comparative analysis of the best practices and formulate decisions based on professional scientific findings, noted the coordinator of the CIS IPA monitoring group mission, Deputy Chairman of the Federation Council of the Russian Federation Konstantin Kosachev. He emphasized that over two decades, the CIS parliamentary institution has established itself not only as a normative and practical force, but also as a scientifically substantiated force. Thanks to this, it was possible to destroy the monopoly on election assessment that Western institutions had appropriated, imposing their point of view on everyone, politicizing observation and drawing conclusions based on the loyalty of the country and its leader.

    In our work, we are guided by the principles of respect for state sovereignty, impartiality, effective assistance, and non-interference in the internal affairs of states, which are enshrined in two basic documents for all of us: the Convention on the Standards of Democratic Elections in the CIS and the Declaration of the CIS Interparliamentary Assembly on the Principles of International Observation, the parliamentarian noted.

    International observers from the CIS Interparliamentary Assembly met with the Chairperson of the Council of the Republic of the National Assembly of Belarus Natalia Kochanova, the Chairperson of the House of Representatives of the National Assembly Igor Sergeyenko, the Chairman of the Central Electoral Commission Igor Karpenko, presidential candidates: the Chairman of the Republican Party of Labor and Justice Alexander Khizhnyak, the leader of the Communist Party of Belarus Sergei Syrankov, the Chairman of the Liberal Democratic Party of Belarus Oleg Gaidukevich, Anna Kanopatskaya and the authorized representative of candidate Alexander Lukashenko, the Chairman of the Federation of Trade Unions of Belarus Yuri Senko. All of them noted that Belarusian society has changed. Despite attempts at outside interference, everyone was focused on ensuring that the campaign was held without upheavals, threats and destabilization, in accordance with national and international law.

    On election day, observers visited 321 polling stations.

    We work in all regions of Belarus. Our work is a kind of “audit”, the result of which is the development and democratization of electoral processes, – said Dmitry Kobitsky.

    The Secretary General noted that the Secretariat is expanding cooperation with scientists from the CIS countries. This allows for increased expert support for the Assembly’s legislative work and serves to develop relations in the scientific circles of the Commonwealth countries. A memorandum of cooperation with the Belarusian Institute for Strategic Studies was also signed as part of the dialogue.

    Rector of SPbPU Andrei Rudskoy congratulated Belarusian partners on the successful completion of the presidential elections and expressed confidence that the elected president will work for the development of Belarus, strengthening friendship and cooperation in the region.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tackling cybercrime: common challenges and legislative solutions identified by Europol and Eurojust

    Source: Europol

    The report highlights several pressing challenges faced by law enforcement, including the overwhelming volume of digital data, the risk of data loss, and the persistent barriers to accessing critical information due to legal and technical constraints. The increasing use of anonymisation services has further complicated efforts to track criminal activities online.To help mitigate these challenges, the report explores the impact…

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: EIB submits form 18-K/A Amendment No.11: EIB Group announces preliminary unaudited operational results 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    For immediate release

    31 January 2025

    EIB submits SEC Form 18-K/A Amendment No. 11

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) has submitted its SEC Form 18-K/A Amendment No. 11.

    To view the document, please go to: EDGAR Filing Documents for 0000950157-25-000089

    The 18-K/A has also been posted on the EIB website: Amendment to the Annual Report 2023 (Form 18-K/A Amendment No 11)

    ENDS

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BNP Paribas Primary New Issues: POST STAB Notice – OVH Groupe SA

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    29/1/2025

    Not for distribution, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States or any jurisdiction in which such distribution would be unlawful.

    [OVH Groupe SA]

    Post-stabilisation Period Announcement

    NO STABILISATION CARRIED OUT

    [Further to the pre-stabilisation period announcement dated 29/1/2025] BNP Paribas (contact: Stanford Hartman telephone: 0207 595 8222) hereby gives notice that no stabilisation (within the meaning of Article 3.2(d) of the Market Abuse Regulation (EU/596/2014)) was undertaken by the Stabilisation Manager(s) named below in relation to the offer of the following securities.

    Securities

    Issuer: OVH GROUPE SA
    Guarantor(s) (if any): N/A
    Aggregate nominal amount: EUR 500,000,000
    Description: 4.75%  Senior Unsecured Notes 2031
    Offer price: 100

    Stabilisation Manager(s)

    Name(s): BNP PARIBAS, JP MORGAN, CREDIT AGRICOLE, HSBC, NATIXIS, LA BANQUE POSTALE, SCOTIABANK

    This announcement is for information purposes only and does not constitute an invitation or offer to underwrite, subscribe for or otherwise acquire or dispose of any securities of the Issuer in any jurisdiction.

    This announcement is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States. The securities referred to above have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration. There has not been and will not be a public offer of the securities in the United States.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Shareholders’ Nomination Board’s proposal for the composition of Aktia Bank’s Board of Directors and their remuneration

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Aktia Bank Plc
    Stock Exchange Release
    31 January 2025 at 11.00 a.m.

    Shareholders’ Nomination Board’s proposal for the composition of Aktia Bank’s Board of Directors and their remuneration

    The Shareholders’ Nomination Board of Aktia Bank Plc has decided to present the following proposal to the Annual General Meeting 2025 of Aktia Bank:

    The number of the members of the Board of Directors is proposed to be decreased from nine and set to seven.

    The Shareholders’ Nomination Board proposes that of the present members of the Board of Directors, Joakim Frimodig, Carl Haglund, Maria Jerhamre Engström, Harri Lauslahti and Matts Rosenberg, based on their consent, be re-elected for a term continuing up until the end of the next Annual General Meeting. For more information on the Board members proposed to be re-elected, please see the company’s website at www.aktia.com. Ann Grevelius, Sari Pohjonen, Johannes Schulman and Lasse Svens have informed that they will not be available for re-election.

    The Shareholders’ Nomination Board also proposes that Hanne Katrama and Sari Somerkallio are elected as new Board members for the same term, based on their consent. Further information on the new Board members proposed to be elected has been attached to this release and can be found closer to the Annual General Meeting on the company’s website www.aktia.com.

    Should any of the candidates presented above not be available to be elected to the Board, the proposed number of Board members shall be decreased accordingly and the available candidates are proposed to be elected accordingly.

    All the proposed persons are independent in relation to the company according to the definition of the Corporate Governance Code. Only Matts Rosenberg is not independent of a significant shareholder since he is the chair of the board of RG Partners Oy, the largest shareholder (10.13%) of Aktia Bank. In addition, Rosenberg is the CEO of of Rettig Oy Ab, which is the largest owner of RG Partners Oy.

    All the proposed persons have informed that they intend, if they are elected, to elect Matts Rosenberg amongst them as Chair of the Board of Directors and to re-elect Joakim Frimodig as Deputy Chair.

    Regarding the selection procedure for the members of the Board of Directors, the Shareholders’ Nomination Board recommends that shareholders take a position on the proposal as a whole at the General Meeting. This recommendation is based on the fact that at Aktia the Shareholders’ Nomination Board is separate from the Board of Directors and, in addition to ensuring that individual nominees for membership of the Board of Directors possess the required competences, it is also responsible for making sure that the proposed Board of Directors as a whole also has the best possible expertise and experience for the company and that the composition of the Board of Directors also meets other requirements set for credit institutions as well as the requirements of the Finnish Corporate Governance Code for listed companies.

    The Nomination Board proposes that the remuneration for the Board of Directors for the term be unchanged from the current term and determined as follows:

    • Chair, EUR 75,000 (2024: EUR 75,000)
    • Deputy Chair, EUR 50,000 (2024: EUR 50,000)
    • member, EUR 40,000 (2024: EUR 40,000)

    Annual remunerations for the Chairs of each Committee as well as meeting remunerations are proposed to be unchanged, meaning that it is proposed that the Chair of each Committee will further receive an annual remuneration of EUR 8,000. The proposed meeting remuneration for Board and Committee meetings is EUR 700 per attended meeting for each person (EUR 700 per attended meeting for each person in 2024). If participation in a board meeting requires travelling outside the board member’s country of residence, the remuneration for board meeting is EUR 1,400 per attended meeting for each person (EUR 1,400 per attended meeting for each person in 2024). The remuneration of the members of the Board is not treated as income forming basis for earnings-related pension. Compensation for travel and accommodation expenses as well as a daily allowance is paid in line with the Finnish Tax Administration’s guidelines and the travel instructions of the company.

    The Nomination Board proposes that approximately 40% of the annual remuneration (gross amount) shall be paid to the members in the form of Aktia shares. The company will on account of the Board members acquire Aktia shares on the market to the price that is formed through public trading or it will transfer the company’s own shares to the Board members and the rest of the annual remuneration payable is paid in cash. The shares are acquired or transferred during a two-week time period from the day following the company’s interim report for 1 January 2025–31 March 2025 is published or as soon as possible in accordance with applicable legislation. If the remuneration can’t be paid in shares, it can be paid in cash entirely. The company will be responsible for all expenses and the possible transfer tax for acquiring or transferring the shares.

    The proposals of the Nomination Board will be included in the summons of the Annual General Meeting.

    Chair of the Shareholders’ Nomination Board of Aktia Bank is Gisela Knuts (appointed by the Pension Insurance Company Veritas and the companies controlled by Erkki Etola), members are Georg Ehrnrooth (appointed by RG Partners Oy), Stefan Wallin (appointed by the Åbo Akademi University Foundation) and Johan Hammarén (appointed by Oy Hammarén & Co Ab), and Lasse Svens, Chair of the Board of Directors of Aktia Bank acts as an expert.

    Aktia Bank Plc

    Further information:
    Gisela Knuts, Chair of the Nomination Board, tel. +358 40 769 8265

    Distribution:
    Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
    Mass media
    www.aktia.com

    Aktia is a Finnish asset manager, bank and life insurer that has been creating wealth and wellbeing from one generation to the next for 200 years. We serve our customers in digital channels everywhere and face-to-face in our offices in the Helsinki, Turku, Tampere, Vaasa and Oulu regions. Our award-winning asset management business sells investment funds internationally. We employ approximately 850 people around Finland. Aktia’s assets under management (AuM) on 30 September 2024 amounted to EUR 14.3 billion, and the balance sheet total was EUR 12.0 billion. Aktia’s shares are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd (AKTIA). aktia.com.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: MEXC Zero-Fee Event for European Traders: 108 Spot Pairs and All EUR Spot Trading Pairs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, Jan. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, is excited to launch a limited-time Zero-Fee Event for European traders. During this limited-time promotion, all EUR Spot trading pairs, as well as a total of 108 Spot trading pairs, will be offered with zero fees, providing exceptional trading opportunities and cost savings for the European cryptocurrency community.

    Event Details

    The Zero-Fee Event will run from January 23, 2025, to March 31, 2025. During this period, all EUR Spot trading pairs will have 0% maker and taker fees. This promotion is available to all MEXC users.

    In addition to EUR Spot pairs, MEXC is also offering zero fees for other trading pairs in Europe.
    MEXC offers a total of 108 Spot trading pairs, including:

    • 81 pairs with USDC
    • 5 pairs with USDT
    • 22 pairs with EUR

    MEXC will also offer 29 Futures trading pairs as part of the zero-fee event.

    User-Centered Benefits for European Traders

    According to the latest TokenInsight research report, MEXC demonstrated considerable growth and market presence in 2024, securing a spot among the top 6 in Spot trading and the top 5 in derivatives trading.

    The report reveals that MEXC’s market share in the Spot market increased by approximately 9%, reaching 11.6% compared to 2023. In the derivatives market, MEXC also achieved a 10.4% year-over-year growth in market share, the largest increase among major exchanges. This growth is fueled by MEXC’s low fees, exclusive trading events, and flexible token listing strategy.

    As Europe is a key market for MEXC, the platform is offering the Zero-Fee Event as a way to give back to European traders, helping them reduce trading costs and maximize their profit potential.

    Beyond this event, MEXC delivers four key advantages that have earned the trust of over 30 million users across 170+ countries:

    M: Most Trending Tokens
    MEXC has over 3,000 token listings and almost lists new tokens daily, offering users a wide range of options and the ability to stay on top of the latest market trends.

    E: Everyday Airdrops
    MEXC brings users frequent rewards and opportunities. In 2024 alone, the platform completed 2,293 airdrops, distributing over $136 million in rewards.

    X: Xtremely Low Fees
    MEXC offers highly competitive trading fees, allowing users to significantly reduce their costs compared to industry standards.

    C: Comprehensive Liquidity
    With deep market depth and high liquidity, MEXC ensures efficient and seamless execution of every transaction, even in volatile markets.

    MEXC states that it will continue to prioritize innovation and user experience, launching new tools and services that meet the needs of global traders, with the aim of making cryptocurrency trading simpler and more profitable for every trader.

    For more details on the event and its rules, please refer to the Event Announcement.

    About MEXC

    Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto”. Serving over 30 million users across 170+ countries, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, frequent airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding.
    MEXC Official Website｜ X ｜ Telegram ｜How to Sign Up on MEXC

    Risk Disclaimer:
    The information provided in this article about cryptocurrencies does not represent MEXC’s official stance or investment advice. Given the highly volatile nature of the cryptocurrency market, investors are encouraged to carefully evaluate market fluctuations, project fundamentals, and potential financial risks before making any trading decisions.

    Contact:
    Lucia Hu
    PR Manager
    lucia.hu@mexc.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by MEXC. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9886c09c-dd1c-4df2-90f9-f0ebe65f2479

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BNP Paribas Primary New Issues: POST STAB Notice – ENGINEERING INGEGNERIA INFORMATICA S.P.A

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    [29/1/2025]

    Not for distribution, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States or any jurisdiction in which such distribution would be unlawful.

    [ENGINEERING INGEGNERIA INFORMATICA S.P.A]

    Post-stabilisation Period Announcement

    NO STABILISATION CARRIED OUT

    [Further to the pre-stabilisation period announcement dated [29/1/2025] BNP Paribas (contact: Stanford Hartman telephone: 0207 595 8222) hereby gives notice that no stabilisation (within the meaning of Article 3.2(d) of the Market Abuse Regulation (EU/596/2014)) was undertaken by the Stabilisation Manager(s) named below in relation to the offer of the following securities.

    Securities

    Issuer: ENGINEERING INGEGNERIA INFORMATICA S.P.A
    Guarantor(s) (if any): N/A
    Aggregate nominal amount: EUR 300,000,000
    EUR 350,000,000
    Description: 8.625% FIXED  2030 
    FRN notes due 2030 
    Offer price: 100
    100

    Stabilisation Manager(s)

    Name(s): Joint GloCo -BNP PARIBAS, UBS
    Joint Books – Banca Akros,CACIB, DB, Intesa, GS, Nomura, UCI

    This announcement is for information purposes only and does not constitute an invitation or offer to underwrite, subscribe for or otherwise acquire or dispose of any securities of the Issuer in any jurisdiction.

    This announcement is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States. The securities referred to above have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration. There has not been and will not be a public offer of the securities in the United States.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £200 million boost to transform neighbourhood policing

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Funding to kickstart the delivery of 13,000 more neighbourhood police officers has been doubled to £200 million to make the country’s streets safer.

    Getty Images

    Forces across England and Wales will now be given hugely increased resources to begin their recruitment to boost neighbourhood policing teams, helping to ensure that the government’s target for additional personnel is met by 2029.

    After years of declining officer presence on Britain’s streets, this investment represents a crucial first step in rebuilding neighbourhood policing. This doubled funding – increased from December’s provisional £100 million commitment – reflects the scale of the challenges that many forces face, as well as the government’s determination to address them.

    As part of a wider billion-pound boost to policing, this dedicated funding will strengthen local crime prevention and community safety. One of the government’s key pledges within its Plan for Change is that every neighbourhood will have a named, contactable officer, helping to restore the local knowledge and presence that effective neighbourhood policing demands.

    These extra officers will see a return to the principles of British policing – where officers are part of the communities they serve and are focused on tackling crimes like antisocial behaviour, theft and knife crime that are blighting our communities.

    Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said:

    This major investment marks a turning point for policing in this country. By doubling extra neighbourhood funding to £200 million, we are giving forces across the country what they need to put more officers and PCSOs [police community support officers] where they’re needed most – on our streets and in our town centres.

    Every neighbourhood deserves dedicated officers who know their patch, understand residents’ concerns and can tackle problems before they escalate. This investment, alongside new powers we are bringing into law, will help prevent crime and protect our communities, which is at the heart of our Plan for Change.

    Restoring local policing will not happen overnight, but this funding boost will get more officers into our town centres and rural areas.

    Forces across England and Wales will be able to boost their local policing teams with this investment, scheduled for next financial year. Each force will set out their plans to government by early spring, showing how they’ll use their allocation to increase visible patrols.

    The rebuilding of local, visible policing in all our communities will be supported by the government’s new Police Standards and Performance Improvement Unit and new standards for neighbourhood policing. In addition to thousands more personnel in neighbourhood policing roles, the government will continue to help forces to protect officer numbers.

    Alongside more officers on the ground, the upcoming Crime and Policing Bill will give these officers the tools they need to keep our streets safe, including enhanced powers such as respect orders to tackle antisocial behaviour and shoplifting effectively. This investment, combined with new powers and local control over resources, marks the start of a long-term commitment to restore visible policing across the country.

    Chief Constable Gavin Stephens, National Police Chiefs’ Council Chair, said:

    We welcome the investment in neighbourhood policing, which is a vital part of how we engage with our communities, building trust and confidence locally.

    Working with our communities and partners to problem solve, tackle antisocial behaviour, supporting victims of domestic abuse, and diverting young people from offending are just some examples of the challenging and rewarding work officers do.

    Visibility and engagement with local communities has always been central to the British policing model and police leaders are in agreement that it must always remain at the heart of what we do.

    Neighbourhood Watch CEO John Hayward-Cripps said:

    Neighbourhood Watch is delighted that the government is further increasing the investment in neighbourhood policing.

    With the increased demands on the police, and public confidence at a low point, a focus on neighbourhood policing is key to the police being visible, approachable, and engaging proactively with the public.

    This injection of investment will increase public confidence in the police and enhance feelings of safety within local communities.

    Paul Gerrard, Co-op Director of Campaigns and Public Affairs, said:

    We welcome the government’s commitment to boost neighbourhood police officer numbers to help protect local communities from crime. As a community-based retailer, we all too often see the significant and damaging impact of retail crime and antisocial behaviour in society.

    We know – and have seen the results – that effective partnerships with local policing make a real difference, and I am cautiously optimistic that this latest development along with continued investment in preventative measures and the rising levels of police attendance can start to reverse retail crime levels, and help communities become stronger, more resilient and safer.

    This funding boost comes as the government publishes its final police funding settlement today. Total funding to police forces across the country will be up to £17.5 billion next year, an increase of up to £1.1 billion compared to the 2024 to 2025 police funding settlement. This includes additional funding to support the costs of the pay awards, the increase in the employer national contributions and funding for officer maintenance.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –