Category: Machine Learning

MIL-OSI Economics: IAI Task Force convenes 76th Meeting to discuss progress and future direction of ASEAN’s Development Agenda

Source: ASEAN

JAKARTA, 6 May 2025 – The Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) Task Force convened its 76th Meeting today at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. Representatives from ASEAN Member States, Timor-Leste, and the ASEAN Secretariat, attended the meeting, whichreviewed the progress implementation of IAI Work Plan IV (2021–2025) and the formulation of its successor Work Plan.

Chaired by Ambassador Ton Thi Ngoc Huong, Permanent Representative of Viet Nam to ASEAN, the meeting focused on addressing key implementation challenges, identifying strategic measures to ensure the successful delivery of ongoing initiatives, and enhancing the completion rate within the remaining timeline of the IAI Work Plan IV (2021–2025).

The meeting also discussed the progress of the formulation of the new IAI Work Plan V, and finalisation of the report for the 36th ASEAN Coordinating Council (ACC). The IAI Task Force reaffirmed its strong commitment and readiness to actively support the development of the new Work Plan, which will guide ASEAN’s efforts in narrowing the development gap beyond 2025.

During the meeting, 13 new projects were accredited, bringing the total number of IAI projects under Work Plan IV (2021-2025) to 112. These initiatives address 17 of the 24 actions (70.8%) across the five strategic areas, as well as all four enabling actions.
For more information on the IAI, please visit https://asean.org/our-communities/initiative-for-asean-integration-narrowing-development-gap-iai-ndg/

MIL OSI Economics –

May 6, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: As Warren Buffett prepares to retire, does his investing philosophy have a future?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Angel Zhong, Professor of Finance, RMIT University

Warren Buffett, the 94-year-old investing legend and chief executive of Berkshire Hathaway, has announced plans to step down at the end of this year.

His departure will mark the end of an era for value investing, an investment approach built on buying quality companies at reasonable prices and holding them for the long term.

Buffett’s approach transformed Berkshire Hathaway from a small textile business in the 1960s into a giant conglomerate now worth more than US$1.1 trillion (A$1.7 trillion).

He built his fortune backing US industry in energy and insurance and American brands, including big stakes in household names such as Coca-Cola, American Express and Apple.

At Berkshire’s annual meeting at the weekend, held in an arena with thousands of devoted investors, Buffett named Greg Abel as his successor.

Abel, 62, is currently chairman and chief executive of Berkshire Hathaway Energy, as well as vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway’s vast non-insurance operations.

He’s known for his disciplined, no-nonsense management style. The company’s board has now voted unanimously to approve the move.

This changing of the guard comes at a pivotal moment. Donald Trump’s return to the US presidency has already delivered significant economic policy shifts.

Meanwhile, questions about US economic dominance grow louder against China’s continued rise.

The ‘Oracle of Omaha’

Few names command as much respect in the world of finance as Warren Buffett. Born in Omaha, Nebraska, in 1930, Buffett displayed an early genius for numbers and investing. He bought his first stock at age 11.

His investment philosophy – buying undervalued companies with strong fundamentals – would later earn him the nickname the “Oracle of Omaha” for his uncanny ability to predict market trends and identify winning investments years before others did.

Value investing

Buffett drew his investment approach from the value investment principles of British-born US economist Benjamin Graham.

He preferred businesses with lasting advantages and a clear value proposition. Some of his key investments included insurance company GEICO, railroad company BNSF, and more recently Chinese electric vehicle maker BYD.

He avoided speculative bubbles (such as the dotcom bubble of the late 1990s and, more recently, cryptocurrencies) and preached long-term patience to investors. As he famously wrote in a 1988 letter to shareholders:

In fact, when we own portions of outstanding businesses with outstanding managements, our favorite holding period is forever.

Buffett’s guidance helped Berkshire navigate many economic booms and recessions. Over his six decades at the helm, the company delivered impressive compounded annual returns of almost 20% – virtually double those of the S&P 500 index.

Beyond financial success, Buffett championed ethical business practices and pledged to donate more than 99% of his wealth through the Giving Pledge, which he cofounded with Bill Gates and Melinda French Gates.

Read more:
How Warren Buffett’s enormous charitable gifts reflect the ‘inner scorecard’ that has guided him up to the billionaire’s planned retirement

Challenges to Buffett’s strategy in today’s world

In an op-ed for the New York Times in 2008, Buffett famously shared the maxim that guides his investment decisions:

Be fearful when others are greedy, and be greedy when others are fearful.

But his strategy thrived in an era of increasing globalisation, free trade, and US economic supremacy. The world has shifted since Buffett’s heyday.

There are concerns about the recent underperformance of value investing. Technology companies now dominate older industries.

This raises questions about whether those who succeed Buffett can spot the next major industry disruptors.

America first?

Trump’s return as US president heralds major changes in economic policy. Trade restrictions might hurt some of Berkshire’s international investments. However, these same policies might benefit Buffett’s US-focused investments.

The idea of US economic superiority also faces new questions. China may overtake the US economy in the 2030s. The US share of global economic output has fallen from about 22% in 1980 to about 15% today.

Buffett’s “never bet against America” mantra faces new scrutiny.

Warren Buffett discusses trade deficits and protectionism on May 3.

The challenges for Buffett’s successor

Abel inherits a company with about US$348 billion (A$539 billion) in cash. That’s a serious amount of capital to deploy wisely amid global economic uncertainty and Trump’s trade war.

Abel will likely maintain Berkshire’s core values while updating its approach. His challenges include:
1. Maintaining the “Buffett premium”: Abel lacks Buffett’s cult-like following among investors, which may gradually erode the additional value the market assigns to Berkshire due to Buffett’s leadership.
  
  Without Buffett’s reputation, Abel may face increased pressure to effectively deploy Berkshire’s massive cash pile in a still-expensive stock market, where valuations are high and finding bargains is harder than ever.
2. Technological adaptation: while Berkshire has increased its technology investments over the years (including positions in Apple and Amazon), balancing its legacy holdings (such as Coca-Cola and railroads) with growth sectors (AI, renewables) remains challenging.
3. Environmental concerns: Berkshire Hathaway’s heavy reliance on coal and gas-fired utilities has drawn growing criticism as investors and regulators demand cleaner energy solutions.
4. Replicating the “golden touch”: Buffett’s genius wasn’t just in picking stocks. It was also in capital allocation, deal-making, and crisis management (for example, buying into Goldman Sachs during the global financial crisis). Can Abel replicate that?
After Buffett

Buffett’s principles – patience, intrinsic value and betting on America – are timeless. But the world has moved on. His successor must navigate geopolitical risks, technological disruption, and the rise of passive investing while preserving Berkshire’s unique culture.

The post-Buffett era represents more than just a leadership change. It’s a test of whether Buffett’s principles can survive in an increasingly short-term, technology-dominated, and geopolitically complex world.

Abel’s leadership will reveal the enduring power – or limitations – of Buffett’s philosophy.

Angel Zhong does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. As Warren Buffett prepares to retire, does his investing philosophy have a future? – https://theconversation.com/as-warren-buffett-prepares-to-retire-does-his-investing-philosophy-have-a-future-255867
MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –
May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Johnson Introduces TRUST Act To Hold Judges Accountable for Misconduct

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Hank Johnson (GA-04)

“Transparency and Responsibility in Upholding Standards in the Judiciary Act (TRUST Act)” Ensures Misconduct By Federal Judges Investigated Even If They Resign, Retire

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, Artificial Intelligence and the Internet, introduced the Transparency and Responsibility in Upholding Standards in the Judiciary Act (TRUST Act). The legislation ensures that pending misconduct complaints will still be fully investigated even if a federal judge resigns, retires, or passes away while under investigation.

All federal judges – other than Supreme Court justices – can face misconduct investigations if a formal complaint is filed. However, a loophole allows judges to resign or retire to halt an ongoing investigation. As a result, alleged misconduct often goes unexamined, and judges accused of wronging still retire with full pensions if they meet age and service requirements.

“They say sunlight is the best disinfectant,” said Ranking Member Johnson. “To root out misconduct, we need sunlight on both the perpetrators and the systems that allowed the misconduct to continue. Judges and courts should not be allowed to sweep bad behavior under the rug. This is a necessary first step in ensuring that our courts are places of integrity and safe for judiciary employees.”

In 2016, Chief Judge José Antonio Fusté of the U.S. District Court for the District of Puerto Rico resigned after a law clerk reported his alleged sexual harassment, stopping any investigation. Similarly, Ninth Circuit Judge Alex Kozinski resigned in 2017 amid allegations that he subjected female law clerks to inappropriate sexual behavior, similarly halting an inquiry.

WHAT THEY ARE SAYING

“The Legal Accountability Project (LAP) has long advocated for Congress to close the troubling loophole that allows judges to step down to evade accountability,” said President and Founder Aliza Shatzman. “Particularly in light of former Minnesota bankruptcy judge Kesha Tanabe’s recent resignation, likely to evade discipline, we applaud Rep. Johnson’s efforts to introduce the TRUST Act, a common-sense fix that will foster greater trust among judiciary employees, lawyers, and the public in the courts. Given how rarely judicial law clerks are empowered to file misconduct complaints against judges, the judiciary should do everything in its power to fully investigate each complaint, even if the judge leaves the bench. LAP is grateful for Rep. Johnson’s leadership, and we urge all members of Congress to support the TRUST Act.”

“After the Judge Kozinski scandal, it was clear the judiciary needed to examine the circumstances that allowed such rank misconduct to continue for so long,” said Fix the Court Executive Director Gabe Roth. “Though a new comment was added to the rules governing complaints saying the judiciary ‘may […] take action on potential institutional issues’ after a resignation, that hasn’t been good enough. Rep. Johnson’s bill would ensure that post-resignation court officials have the statutory imperative to review both the complaint itself and the conditions that may have fostered impropriety, with an eye toward taking proactive steps to improve courthouse protocols and protect judiciary employees. It’s a needed improvement, and I applaud Rep. Johnson’s work.”

“The proper functioning of our courts depends on an accountable judiciary,” said Debra Perlin, Vice President for Policy at Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW). “But currently, if a judge who commits misconduct leaves office, the judiciary’s investigation of that misconduct stops. Rep. Johnson’s bill closes this loophole, ensuring that the judiciary’s thorough investigation and review continues after a judge’s departure. A judge’s resignation does not absolve past misconduct, nor does it prevent such misconduct from recurring. The judiciary must investigate potential breaches of the public trust, and we urge Congress to pass this important legislation to require it to do just that.”

“When a federal judge is accused of serious misconduct, including sexual harassment, they should be held accountable. But right now, there’s a loophole that lets them off the hook. If they resign or retire, the investigation ends, no matter how serious the allegations,” said Alison Gill, Director of Nominations & Democracy at the National Women’s Law Center Action Fund. “The TRUST Act would finally close that loophole by making sure complaints are fully investigated, even if a judge steps down or passes away. We’re grateful to Representative Johnson for championing this crucial bill to help promote accountability and integrity in our courts.”

“Legal Momentum, The Women’s Legal Defense and Education Fund is proud to endorse the TRUST Act to strengthen protections for judicial workers and to hold the system and individuals accountable for misconduct,” said Legal Director Azaleea Carlea. “As civil servants, federal judicial workers deserve the opportunity to fully seek justice and closure for workplace violations. Judges must also be held accountable for the very behavior they are tasked with reprimanding even after they step down from the bench. This bill is a historic step in the right direction to support women and their ability to perform their duties in a safe and supportive environment, which in turn advances a more equitable workplace for all.”

Text of bill HERE.

Cosponsors: Eleanor Holmes Norton [DC00], Jasmine Crockett [TX30], Yvette D. Clarke [NY09], Valerie P. Foushee [NC04, Lloyd Doggett [TX37], Deborah K. Ross [NC02], Rashida Tlaib [MI12], Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez [NY14], Madeleine Dean [PA04].

The TRUST Act is endorsed by Legal Momentum, People’s Parity Project, National Women’s Law Center Action Fund, Citizens For Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), and The Legal Accountability Project.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

May 6, 2025

MIL-OSI: International Petroleum Corporation Announces First Quarter 2025 Financial and Operational Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

TORONTO, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — William Lundin, IPC’s President and Chief Executive Officer, comments: “We are pleased to announce another strong quarter of operational and financial performance for Q1 2025. IPC achieved an average net daily production during the quarter of 44,400 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boepd). Our results during the quarter were in line with the 2025 guidance announced at our Capital Markets Day in February as we continue to execute according to plan across our operations in Canada, Malaysia and France. Notably, the transformational Blackrod Phase 1 development project in Canada has progressed substantially during the quarter and forecast first oil is maintained with the original project sanction guidance for late 2026. We also continued with purchases of IPC common shares under the normal course issuer bid, having completed approximately 60% of the current 2024/2025 program between December 2024 to March 2025.”

Q1 2025 Business Highlights

Average net production of approximately 44,400 boepd for the first quarter of 2025, within the guidance range for the period (52% heavy crude oil, 15% light and medium crude oil and 33% natural gas).⁽¹⁾
Continued progressing Phase 1 development activity as well as future phase resource maturation works at the Blackrod asset.
At Onion Lake Thermal, all four planned production infill wells and the final Pad L well pair have been successfully drilled.
3.9 million IPC common shares purchased and cancelled during Q1 2025 and continuing with target to complete the full 2024/2025 NCIB this year.

Q1 2025 Financial Highlights

Operating costs per boe of USD 17.3 for Q1 2025, in line with guidance.⁽³⁾
Operating cash flow (OCF) generation of MUSD 75 for Q1 2025, in line with guidance.⁽³⁾
Capital and decommissioning expenditures of MUSD 99 for Q1 2025, in line with guidance.
Free cash flow (FCF) generation for Q1 2025 amounted to MUSD -43 (MUSD 37 pre-Blackrod capital expenditure).⁽³⁾
Gross cash of MUSD 140 and net debt of MUSD 314 as at March 31, 2025.⁽³⁾
Net result of MUSD 16 for Q1 2025.

Reserves and Resources

Total 2P reserves as at December 31, 2024 of 493 MMboe, with a reserve life index (RLI) of 31 years.⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾
Contingent resources (best estimate, unrisked) as at December 31, 2024 of 1,107 MMboe.⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾
2P reserves net asset value (NAV) as at December 31, 2024 of MUSD 3,083 (10% discount rate).⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾

2025 Annual Guidance

Full year 2025 average net production guidance range forecast maintained at 43,000 to 45,000 boepd.⁽¹⁾
Full year 2025 operating costs guidance range forecast maintained at USD 18 to 19 per boe.⁽³⁾
Full year 2025 OCF revised guidance estimated at between MUSD 240 and 270 (assuming Brent USD 60 to 75 per barrel for the remainder of 2025) from previous guidance of between MUSD 210 and 280 (assuming Brent USD 65 to 85 per barrel).⁽³⁾⁽⁴⁾
Full year 2025 capital and decommissioning expenditures guidance forecast maintained at MUSD 320.
Full year 2025 FCF revised guidance estimated at between MUSD -135 and -110 (assuming Brent USD 60 to 75 per barrel for the remainder of 2025) from previous guidance of between MUSD -150 and -80 (assuming Brent USD 65 to 85 per barrel), after taking into account MUSD 230 of forecast full year 2025 capital expenditures relating to the Blackrod asset.⁽³⁾⁽⁴⁾

	Three months ended March 31
USD Thousands	2025	2024
Revenue	178,492	206,419
Gross profit	44,149	55,184
Net result	16,231	33,719
Operating cash flow⁽³⁾	74,790	89,301
Free cash flow⁽³⁾	(43,172)	(43,311)
EBITDA⁽³⁾	70,946	87,020
Net cash/(debt)⁽³⁾	(314,255)	(60,572)

During the first quarter of 2025, oil prices were relatively stable, with Brent prices averaging just below USD 76 per barrel. Following the quarter, commodity prices pulled back with spot Brent rates falling to USD 60 per barrel in April 2025. The physical crude market remained tight throughout the first quarter, prompting OPEC and the OPEC+ group to increase supply ahead of expectations. The timing of the supply increases coincided with the United States proposing harsh tariffs to countries deemed in a trade surplus of US goods. These two events have impacted future crude supply and demand outlooks, in turn weighing on spot and future oil benchmark prices. Despite the poor market sentiment, global inventories remain below the 5-year average, high geopolitical tensions persist, non-OPEC 2025 oil production (namely, in the US) is unlikely to grow at current prices, and US Federal Reserve Bank rate cuts are likely to occur in the near future. IPC prudently supplemented downside protection measures at the beginning of the first quarter of 2025 through financial swap hedging arrangements which in total represent nearly 40% of our forecast 2025 oil production at around USD 76 and USD 71 per barrel for Dated Brent and West Texas Intermediate (WTI), respectively, for the remainder of 2025.

In Canada, WTI to Western Canadian Select (WCS) crude price differentials during the first quarter of 2025 averaged just under USD 13 per barrel, with spot differentials decreasing to around USD 9 per barrel in April 2025. The Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin (WCSB) petroleum producers have greatly benefited from the TMX pipeline expansion with differentials tightening to levels not seen since 2020. There are currently no tariffs on Canadian crude exports to the United States, which remain covered by the US Mexico Canada free trade agreement. IPC has hedged the WTI/WCS differential for approximately 50% of our forecast 2025 Canadian oil production at USD 14 per barrel for 2025.

Natural gas markets in Canada for the first quarter of 2025 remained weak, given the softer than average winter weather conditions and high natural gas storage levels. The average AECO gas price was CAD 2.1 per Mcf for the first quarter of 2025. The forward strip implies improved pricing for Canadian gas benchmark prices, driven by the pending startup of the West Coast LNG Canada project later this year. Approximately 50% of our net long exposure is hedged at CAD 2.4 per Mcf to end October 2025, dropping to around 15% for November and December at CAD 2.6 per mcf.

First Quarter 2025 Highlights and Full Year 2025 Guidance

During the first quarter of 2025, our portfolio delivered average net production of 44,400 boepd, in line with guidance. Operational performance from our producing assets was strong to start the year as high facility and well uptimes were achieved. Drilling activity commenced in the first quarter of 2025 at Onion Lake Thermal, which aims to sustain production levels at the asset for 2025. In Malaysia, drilling and well maintenance works are planned to start in the second quarter of 2025, in line with plan. We maintain the full year 2025 average net production guidance range of 43,000 to 45,000 boepd.⁽¹⁾

Our operating costs per boe for the first quarter of 2025 was USD 17.3, in line with guidance. Full year 2025 operating expenditure guidance of USD 18.0 to 19.0 per boe remains unchanged.⁽³⁾

Operating cash flow (OCF) generation for the first quarter of 2025 was MUSD 75. Full year 2025 OCF guidance is tightened to MUSD 240 to 270 (assuming Brent USD 60 to 75 per barrel for the remainder of 2025).⁽³⁾⁽⁴⁾

Capital and decommissioning expenditure for the first quarter of 2025 was MUSD 99 in line with guidance. Full year 2025 capital and decommissioning expenditure of MUSD 320 is maintained.

Free cash flow (FCF) generation was MUSD -43 (MUSD 37 pre-Blackrod capital expenditure) during the first quarter of 2025. Full year 2025 FCF guidance is tightened to MUSD -135 to -110 (assuming Brent USD 60 to 75 per barrel for the remainder of 2025) after taking into account MUSD 320 of forecast full year 2025 capital expenditures (including MUSD 230 relating to the Blackrod asset).⁽³⁾⁽⁴⁾

As at March 31, 2025, IPC’s net debt position was MUSD 314, from a net debt position of MUSD 209 as at December 31, 2024, mainly driven by the funding of forecast capital expenditures and the continuing share repurchase program (NCIB). Gross cash on the balance sheet as at March 31, 2025 amounts to MUSD 140 and IPC has access to an undrawn Canadian credit facility of greater than 130 MUSD. The access to liquidity supports IPC to follow through on its key strategic objectives of enhancing stakeholder value through organic growth, stakeholder returns, and pursuing value adding M&A.⁽³⁾

Blackrod

During the first quarter of 2025, IPC continued to advance the Phase 1 development of the Blackrod asset. Growth capital expenditure to first oil is maintained at MUSD 850. First oil of the Phase 1 development is estimated to be in late 2026, with forecast net production of 30,000 boepd by 2028. IPC forecasts capital expenditure in 2025 at the Blackrod asset of MUSD 230, of which MUSD 77 was invested in the Phase 1 development project during Q1 2025. Since the transformational organic growth project was sanctioned in early 2023, MUSD 669, or approximately 80% of the total multi-year project capital budget, has been incurred.⁽¹⁾

Project activities for the multi-year Blackrod Phase 1 development have progressed according to plan. Engineering, procurement and fabrication is substantially complete with greater than 90% of all facility modules delivered to site. Equipment installation, piping inter-connects, electrical and instrumentation are the key areas of focus for construction at the Central Processing Facility (CPF) and well pad facilities.

Resource maturation drilling for future phase expansion considerations took place during Q1 2025. Commercial operational readiness planning has ramped up in line with our progressive turnover strategy to ensure a seamless transition from build to start-up. IPC intends to fund the remaining Blackrod capital expenditure with forecast cash flow generated by its operations, cash on hand and drawing under the existing Canadian credit facility if needed.⁽³⁾

Stakeholder Returns: Normal Course Issuer Bid

In Q4 2024, IPC announced the renewal of the NCIB, with the ability to repurchase up to approximately 7.5 million common shares over the period of December 5, 2024 to December 4, 2025. Under the 2024/2025 NCIB, IPC repurchased and cancelled approximately 0.8 million common shares in December 2024, 3.7 million common shares during Q1 2025, and a further 0.2 million common shares purchased under other exemptions in Canada. The average price of common shares purchased under the 2024/2025 NCIB during Q1 2025 was SEK 146 / CAD 20 per share.

As at March 31, 2025, IPC had a total of 115,176,514 common shares issued and outstanding and IPC held no common shares in treasury. As at April 30, 2025, IPC had a total of 114,248,119 common shares issued and outstanding and IPC held no common shares in treasury.

Notwithstanding the final major capital investment year at Blackrod in 2025, IPC had purchased and cancelled 73% of the maximum 7.5 million common shares allowed under the 2024/2025 NCIB by the end of April 2025 and intends to purchase and cancel the remaining 2.0 million common shares under that program in 2025. This would result in the cancellation of 6.2% of common shares outstanding as at the beginning of December 2024. IPC continues to believe that reducing the number of shares outstanding in combination with investing in long-life production growth at the Blackrod project will prove to be a winning formula for our stakeholders.

Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Performance

During the first quarter of 2025, IPC recorded no material safety or environmental incidents.

As previously announced, IPC targets a reduction of our net GHG emissions intensity by the end of 2025 to 50% of IPC’s 2019 baseline and IPC remains on track to achieve this reduction. IPC has also made a commitment to maintain 2025 levels of 20 kg CO₂/boe through to the end of 2028.⁽⁵⁾

Notes:

	(1)	See “Supplemental Information regarding Product Types” in “Reserves and Resources Advisory” below. See also the annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2024 (AIF) available on IPC’s website at www.international-petroleum.com and under IPC’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.
	(2)	See “Reserves and Resources Advisory“ below. Further information with respect to IPC’s reserves, contingent resources and estimates of future net revenue, including assumptions relating to the calculation of net present value (NPV), are described in the AIF. NAV is calculated as NPV less net debt of USD 209 million as at December 31, 2024.
	(3)	Non-IFRS measures, see “Non-IFRS Measures” below and in the MD&A.
	(4)	OCF and FCF forecasts at Brent USD 60 and 70 per barrel assume Brent to WTI differential of USD 3 and 5 per barrel, respectively, and WTI to WCS differential of USD 10 and 15 per barrel, respectively, for the remainder of 2025. OCF and FCF forecasts assume gas price on average of CAD 2.25 per Mcf for the remainder of 2025.
	(5)	Emissions intensity is the ratio between oil and gas production and the associated carbon emissions, and net emissions intensity reflects gross emissions less operational emission reductions and carbon offsets.

International Petroleum Corp. (IPC) is an international oil and gas exploration and production company with a high quality portfolio of assets located in Canada, Malaysia and France, providing a solid foundation for organic and inorganic growth. IPC is a member of the Lundin Group of Companies. IPC is incorporated in Canada and IPC’s shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) and the Nasdaq Stockholm exchange under the symbol “IPCO”.

For further information, please contact:

Rebecca Gordon SVP Corporate Planning and Investor Relations rebecca.gordon@international-petroleum.com Tel: +41 22 595 10 50	Or	Robert Eriksson Media Manager reriksson@rive6.ch Tel: +46 701 11 26 15

This information is information that International Petroleum Corporation is required to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation and the Securities Markets Act. The information was submitted for publication, through the contact persons set out above, at 07:30 CEST on May 6, 2025. The Corporation’s unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements (Financial Statements) and management’s discussion and analysis (MD&A) for the three months ended March 31, 2025 have been filed on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and are also available on the Corporation’s website (www.international-petroleum.com).

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains statements and information which constitute “forward-looking statements” or “forward-looking information” (within the meaning of applicable securities legislation). Such statements and information (together, “forward-looking statements”) relate to future events, including the Corporation’s future performance, business prospects or opportunities. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release, unless otherwise indicated. IPC does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable laws.

All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, forecasts, guidance, budgets, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as “seek”, “anticipate”, “plan”, “continue”, “estimate”, “expect”, “may”, “will”, “project”, “forecast”, “predict”, “potential”, “targeting”, “intend”, “could”, “might”, “should”, “believe”, “budget” and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be “forward-looking statements”.

Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to:

2025 production ranges (including total daily average production), production composition, cash flows, operating costs and capital and decommissioning expenditure estimates;
Estimates of future production, cash flows, operating costs and capital expenditures that are based on IPC’s current business plans and assumptions regarding the business environment, which are subject to change;
IPC’s financial and operational flexibility to navigate the Corporation through periods of volatile commodity prices;
The ability to fully fund future expenditures from cash flows and current borrowing capacity;
IPC’s intention and ability to continue to implement its strategies to build long-term shareholder value;
The ability of IPC’s portfolio of assets to provide a solid foundation for organic and inorganic growth;
The continued facility uptime and reservoir performance in IPC’s areas of operation;
Development of the Blackrod project in Canada, including estimates of resource volumes, future production, timing, regulatory approvals, third party commercial arrangements, breakeven oil prices and net present values;
Current and future production performance, operations and development potential of the Onion Lake Thermal, Suffield, Brooks, Ferguson and Mooney operations, including the timing and success of future oil and gas drilling and optimization programs;
The potential improvement in the Canadian oil egress situation and IPC’s ability to benefit from any such improvements;
The ability to maintain current and forecast production in France and Malaysia;
The intention and ability of IPC to acquire further Common Shares under the NCIB, including the timing of any such purchases;
The return of value to IPC’s shareholders as a result of the NCIB;
IPC’s ability to implement its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions intensity and climate strategies and to achieve its net GHG emissions intensity reduction targets;
IPC’s ability to implement projects to reduce net emissions intensity, including potential carbon capture and storage;
Estimates of reserves and contingent resources;
The ability to generate free cash flows and use that cash to repay debt;
IPC’s continued access to its existing credit facilities, including current financial headroom, on terms acceptable to the Corporation;
IPC’s ability to identify and complete future acquisitions;
Expectations regarding the oil and gas industry in Canada, Malaysia and France, including assumptions regarding future royalty rates, regulatory approvals, legislative changes, tariffs, and ongoing projects and their expected completion; and
Future drilling and other exploration and development activities.

Statements relating to “reserves” and “contingent resources” are also deemed to be forward-looking statements, as they involve the implied assessment, based on certain estimates and assumptions, that the reserves and resources described exist in the quantities predicted or estimated and that the reserves and resources can be profitably produced in the future. Ultimate recovery of reserves or resources is based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions of management.

The forward-looking statements are based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by IPC, including expectations and assumptions concerning: the potential impact of tariffs implemented in 2025 by the U.S. and Canadian governments and that other than the tariffs that have been implemented, neither the U.S. nor Canada (i) increases the rate or scope of such tariffs, or imposes new tariffs, on the import of goods from one country to the other, including on oil and natural gas, and/or (ii) imposes any other form of tax, restriction or prohibition on the import or export of products from one country to the other, including on oil and natural gas; prevailing commodity prices and currency exchange rates; applicable royalty rates and tax laws; interest rates; future well production rates and reserve and contingent resource volumes; operating costs; our ability to maintain our existing credit ratings; our ability to achieve our performance targets; the timing of receipt of regulatory approvals; the performance of existing wells; the success obtained in drilling new wells; anticipated timing and results of capital expenditures; the sufficiency of budgeted capital expenditures in carrying out planned activities; the timing, location and extent of future drilling operations; the successful completion of acquisitions and dispositions and that we will be able to implement our standards, controls, procedures and policies in respect of any acquisitions and realize the expected synergies on the anticipated timeline or at all; the benefits of acquisitions; the state of the economy and the exploration and production business in the jurisdictions in which IPC operates and globally; the availability and cost of financing, labour and services; our intention to complete share repurchases under our normal course issuer bid program, including the funding of such share repurchases, existing and future market conditions, including with respect to the price of our common shares, and compliance with respect to applicable limitations under securities laws and regulations and stock exchange policies; and the ability to market crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids successfully.

Although IPC believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements because IPC can give no assurances that they will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks.

These include, but are not limited to: general global economic, market and business conditions; the risks associated with the oil and gas industry in general such as operational risks in development, exploration and production; delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures; the uncertainty of estimates and projections relating to reserves, resources, production, revenues, costs and expenses; health, safety and environmental risks; commodity price fluctuations; interest rate and exchange rate fluctuations; marketing and transportation; loss of markets; environmental and climate-related risks; competition; innovation and cybersecurity risks related to our systems, including our costs of addressing or mitigating such risks; the ability to attract, engage and retain skilled employees; incorrect assessment of the value of acquisitions; failure to complete or realize the anticipated benefits of acquisitions or dispositions; the ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources; failure to obtain required regulatory and other approvals; geopolitical conflicts, including the war between Ukraine and Russia and the conflict in the Middle East, and their potential impact on, among other things, global market conditions; political or economic developments, including, without limitation, the risk that (i) one or both of the U.S. and Canadian governments increases the rate or scope of tariffs implemented in 2025, or imposes new tariffs on the import of goods from one country to the other, including on oil and natural gas, (ii) the U.S. and/or Canada imposes any other form of tax, restriction or prohibition on the import or export of products from one country to the other, including on oil and natural gas, and (iii) the tariffs imposed by the U.S. on other countries and responses thereto could have a material adverse effect on the Canadian, U.S. and global economies, and by extension the Canadian oil and natural gas industry and the Corporation; and changes in legislation, including but not limited to tax laws, royalties, environmental and abandonment regulations. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive.

Additional information on these and other factors that could affect IPC, or its operations or financial results, are included in the MD&A (See “Risk Factors”, “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information” and “Reserves and Resources Advisory”), the Corporation’s Annual Information Form (AIF) for the year ended December 31, 2024, (See “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information”, “Reserves and Resources Advisory” and “Risk Factors”) and other reports on file with applicable securities regulatory authorities, including previous financial reports, management’s discussion and analysis and material change reports, which may be accessed through the SEDAR+ website (www.sedarplus.ca) or IPC’s website (www.international-petroleum.com).

Management of IPC approved the production, operating costs, operating cash flow, capital and decommissioning expenditures and free cash flow guidance and estimates contained herein as of the date of this press release. The purpose of these guidance and estimates is to assist readers in understanding IPC’s expected and targeted financial results, and this information may not be appropriate for other purposes.

Estimated production and FCF generation are based on IPC’s current business plans over the periods of 2025 to 2029 and 2030 to 2034, less net debt of USD 209 million as at December 31, 2024, with assumptions based on the reports of IPC’s independent reserves evaluators, and including certain corporate adjustments relating to estimated general and administration costs and hedging, and excluding shareholder distributions and financing costs. Assumptions include average net production of approximately 57 Mboepd over the period of 2025 to 2029, average net production of approximately 63 Mboepd over the period of 2030 to 2034, average Brent oil prices of USD 75 to 95 per bbl escalating by 2% per year, and average Brent to Western Canadian Select differentials and average gas prices as estimated by IPC’s independent reserves evaluator and as further described in the AIF. IPC’s current business plans and assumptions, and the business environment, are subject to change. Actual results may differ materially from forward-looking estimates and forecasts.

Non-IFRS Measures
References are made in this press release to “operating cash flow” (OCF), “free cash flow” (FCF), “Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortization” (EBITDA), “operating costs” and “net debt”/”net cash”, which are not generally accepted accounting measures under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and, therefore, may not be comparable with similar measures presented by other public companies. Non-IFRS measures should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures prepared in accordance with IFRS.

The definition of each non-IFRS measure is presented in IPC’s MD&A (See “Non-IFRS Measures” therein).

Operating cash flow
The following table sets out how operating cash flow is calculated from figures shown in the Financial Statements:

	Three months ended March 31
USD Thousands	2025	2024
Revenue	178,492	206,419
Production costs and net sales of diluent to third party ¹	(103,188)	(115,745)
Current tax	(514)	(1,373)
Operating cash flow	74,790	89,301

¹Includes net sales of diluent to third party amounting to USD 191 thousand for the first quarter of 2025.

Free cash flow
The following table sets out how free cash flow is calculated from figures shown in the Financial Statements:

	Three months ended March 31
USD Thousands	2025	2024
Operating cash flow – see above	74,790	89,301
Capital expenditures	(98,886)	(125,256)
Abandonment and farm-in expenditures¹	(321)	(122)
General, administration and depreciation expenses before depreciation²	(4,358)	(3,653)
Cash financial items³	(14,397)	(3,581)
Free cash flow	(43,172)	(43,311)

¹ See note 16 to the Financial Statements
² Depreciation is not specifically disclosed in the Financial Statements
³ See notes 4 and 5 to the Financial Statements

EBITDA
The following table sets out the reconciliation from net result from the consolidated statement of operations to EBITDA:

	Three months ended March 31
USD Thousands	2025	2024
Net result	16,231	33,719
Net financial items	18,855	9,770
Income tax	4,679	7,746
Depletion and decommissioning costs	29,016	33,153
Depreciation of other tangible fixed assets	1,917	2,262
Exploration and business development costs	31	75
Sale of assets ¹	(94)	–
Depreciation included in general, administration and depreciation expenses ²	311	295
EBITDA	70,946	87,020

¹ Sale of assets is included under “Other income/(expense)” but not specifically disclosed in the Financial Statements
² Item is not shown in the Financial Statements

Operating costs
The following table sets out how operating costs is calculated:

	Three months ended March 31
USD Thousands	2025	2024
Production costs	103,379	115,745
Cost of blending	(37,726)	(45,206)
Change in inventory position	3,500	5,277
Operating costs	69,153	75,816

Net cash/(debt)
The following table sets out how net cash / (debt) is calculated from figures shown in the Financial Statements:

USD Thousands	March 31, 2025	December 31, 2024
Bank loans	(4,449)	(5,121)
Bonds¹	(450,000)	(450,000)
Cash and cash equivalents	140,194	246,593
Net cash/(debt)	(314,255)	(208,528)

¹ The bond amount represents the redeemable value at maturity (February 2027).

Reserves and Resources Advisory
This press release contains references to estimates of gross and net reserves and resources attributed to the Corporation’s oil and gas assets. For additional information with respect to such reserves and resources, refer to “Reserves and Resources Advisory” in the MD&A. Light, medium and heavy crude oil reserves/resources disclosed in this press release include solution gas and other by-products. Also see “Supplemental Information regarding Product Types” below.

Reserve estimates, contingent resource estimates and estimates of future net revenue in respect of IPC’s oil and gas assets in Canada are effective as of December 31, 2024, and are included in the reports prepared by Sproule Associates Limited (Sproule), an independent qualified reserves evaluator, in accordance with National Instrument 51-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities (NI 51-101) and the Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation Handbook (the COGE Handbook) and using Sproule’s December 31, 2024 price forecasts.

Reserve estimates, contingent resource estimates and estimates of future net revenue in respect of IPC’s oil and gas assets in France and Malaysia are effective as of December 31, 2024, and are included in the report prepared by ERC Equipoise Ltd. (ERCE), an independent qualified reserves auditor, in accordance with NI 51-101 and the COGE Handbook, and using Sproule’s December 31, 2024 price forecasts.

The price forecasts used in the Sproule and ERCE reports are available on the website of Sproule (sproule.com) and are contained in the AIF. These price forecasts are as at December 31, 2024 and may not be reflective of current and future forecast commodity prices.

The reserve life index (RLI) is calculated by dividing the 2P reserves of 493 MMboe as at December 31, 2024 by the mid-point of the 2025 CMD production guidance of 43,000 to 45,000 boepd.

IPC uses the industry-accepted standard conversion of six thousand cubic feet of natural gas to one barrel of oil (6 Mcf = 1 bbl). A BOE conversion ratio of 6:1 is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. As the value ratio between natural gas and crude oil based on the current prices of natural gas and crude oil is significantly different from the energy equivalency of 6:1, utilizing a 6:1 conversion basis may be misleading as an indication of value.

Supplemental Information regarding Product Types

The following table is intended to provide supplemental information about the product type composition of IPC’s net average daily production figures provided in this press release:


	Heavy Crude Oil (Mbopd)	Light and Medium Crude Oil (Mbopd)	Conventional Natural Gas (per day)	Total (Mboepd)
Three months ended
March 31, 2025	23.2	6.5	88.2 MMcf (14.7 Mboe)	44.4
March 31, 2024	24.9	7.9	96.0 MMcf (16.0 Mboe)	48.8
Year ended
December 31, 2024	23.9	7.7	95.1 MMcf (15.8 Mboe)	47.4

This press release also makes reference to IPC’s forecast total average daily production of 43,000 to 45,000 boepd for 2025. IPC estimates that approximately 52% of that production will be comprised of heavy oil, approximately 15% will be comprised of light and medium crude oil and approximately 33% will be comprised of conventional natural gas.

Currency
All dollar amounts in this press release are expressed in United States dollars, except where otherwise noted. References herein to USD mean United States dollars and to MUSD mean millions of United States dollars. References herein to CAD mean Canadian dollars.

The MIL Network –

May 6, 2025

MIL-OSI: Viridien secures sale of Sercel Marlin Offshore Logistics solution to ONGC
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Paris, France – May 6, 2025

Viridien has announced a sale of its state-of-the art Sercel Marlin™ Offshore Logistics management solution to Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) to enhance operational efficiency and safety across its Western offshore E&P operations in India. The sale includes a five-year contract to provide ONGC with dedicated on-premises Sercel software and support services.

The Sercel Marlin Offshore Logistics solution will digitize and streamline ONGC’s complex offshore E&P logistics, increasing situational awareness through real-time vessel tracking and boosting efficiency in operational planning while also managing helicopter transit. Seamless integration with ONGC’s market-leading ERP systems will also ensure efficient data exchange and decision-making. Additionally, Marlin’s advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) algorithms will future-proof ONGC’s operations by further enhancing operational efficiency and planning. All of this will support ONGC’s vision to deliver business excellence and achieve their carbon neutrality objectives.

Jérôme Denigot, EVP, Sensing & Monitoring, Viridien, said: “We are proud to support ONGC’s digitalization strategy with our Sercel Marlin Offshore Logistics solution. Tailored for both cloud-based and on-premises deployment, it offers unparalleled flexibility to accommodate a client’s diverse infrastructure needs. This award widens our footprint in India’s offshore energy sector and opens up future growth opportunities for our Sercel software solutions in the region. This latest collaboration strengthens our position as a leading provider of operations and logistics software for the energy industry and beyond.”

About Viridien:

Viridien (www.viridiengroup.com) is an advanced technology, digital and Earth data company that pushes the boundaries of science for a more prosperous and sustainable future. With our ingenuity, drive and deep curiosity we discover new insights, innovations, and solutions that efficiently and responsibly resolve complex natural resource, digital, energy transition and infrastructure challenges. Viridien employs around 3,400 people worldwide and is listed as VIRI on the Euronext Paris SA (ISIN: FR001400PVN6).

Contacts

Attachment
- Viridien secures sale of Sercel Marlin Offshore Logistics solution to ONGC
The MIL Network –
May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: House Foreign Affairs Committee Ranking Member Meeks Opening Remarks at Full Committee Hearing on Authorizing the State Department

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Gregory W Meeks (5th District of New York)

Washington, D.C. – Representative Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, delivered the following opening remarks – as prepared – before the full House Foreign Affairs Committee for a hearing on “The Need for an Authorized State Department”:

Thank you, Chairman Mast, and thank you to our witnesses for joining us today.

As members of this Committee, it is our duty to reauthorize the State Department regularly, just as Congress does with respect to the Department of Defense. As Chairman in the 117th Congress, I made it a priority to pass the first State Department reauthorization in 18 years, doing so in a bipartisan way with then-Chairman McCaul. That’s because both Democrats and Republicans believed that it was in the best interest of the American people and U.S. national security for Congress to ensure our diplomatic and development professionals have all the tools they need to succeed.

So, while I appreciate that this hearing was called and agree with the need for Congress to regularly authorize the State Department, Mr. Chairman, I am afraid this committee’s actions this Congress have run counter to that goal. Afterall, how can we engage in a serious, bipartisan conversation about strengthening the State Department and other agencies when Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and Secretary Rubio have eviscerated the very Department and instruments of national security we’re supposed to support, while not being called even once for a hearing before this Committee?

You can’t remodel a home after burning it to the ground. And Congress’ legislative role should not be to simply rubber-stamp the arsonists’ work.

This is a profound moment of shame for the Republican party, as its Members sit silently while Secretary Rubio allows Elon Musk and his army of teenagers – who have no foreign policy or even government expertise – to dismantle the very agencies they have supported in the past. The United States Agency for International Development, the US Agency for Global Media, the Millenium Challenge Corporation, just to name a few, have all been met with a hatchet job FOR NO REASON. Meanwhile Secretary Rubio and my Republican colleagues – who’ve in the past understood their value – fail to speak up or, worse, contort themselves to justify this administration’s actions. There is no greater demonstration of this incredible cowardice than Marco Rubio, who knows this is wrong, but would rather sit atop a kingdom of ash than defend the work he once praised.

I had hoped that Secretary Rubio would at least try to protect the Department, USAID and their workforces who’ve dedicated their lives to serving the American people. Instead, he stood by while Musk, Pete Marocco, and DOGE illegally gutted USAID – a statutory agency – and condemned millions of people around the world to disease, starvation, and death by slashing foreign assistance, forfeiting U.S. global leadership in the process.

The wanton destruction didn’t end with USAID or Pete Marocco’s exit. Most recently, Secretary Rubio gave this Committee just 25-minutes’ notice before announcing a sweeping dismantling of our soft power tools in the name of a State “reorganization.”

This is not reform, it’s abandoning decades of bipartisan support for centering human rights and democracy in our foreign policy – without consultation, without engagement, and without any regard for Congress’ constitutional role as a co-equal branch of government.

To this day, Secretary Rubio refuses to follow the law and consult with Congress. And we have no reason to believe that will change. In the weeks ahead, we fully expect him to endorse the next chapter of Project 2025: closing hundreds of critical offices and potentially dozens of overseas posts, gutting the Department’s workforce, and slashing the budget –all of which will leave America weaker and more isolated. China and Russia will continue to celebrate, as they have done every day of Donald Trump’s first 100 days.

So, while I am grateful to our witnesses for joining us today and for their many years of dedicated service to our country, I have to ask: why are we talking to private witnesses instead of demanding Secretary Rubio come before this Committee to defend his reckless actions?

And how can we expect any meaningful authorization process when my Republican colleagues have refused to speak out—even as this Administration destroys programs and policies they once championed?

I have a long track record of working with any Administration that wants to strengthen our national security and works in good faith towards that end. But this is not business as usual. Donald Trump has taken a wrecking ball to our foreign policy, treated our allies as adversaries and our adversaries as allies, threatened to invade some of those allies, and launched a trade war that is hurting our economy and constituents.

And in placating their would-be-king, my colleagues have abandoned all they’ve held sacred, whether for political expedience, fear of Donald Trump, or both.

I would love nothing more than a good-faith effort to reauthorize the State Department and I welcome discussions to that end. But to my Republican colleagues, you all must choose. Will you—as an independent branch of government—stand up to Donald Trump, Elon Musk and Marco Rubio? Or will you enable and support the most rapid, intentional dismantling of American soft power and influence in the history of this country?

If it’s the latter, then I fear this entire endeavor is meaningless.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: House Foreign Affairs Committee Ranking Member Meeks, Cherfilus-McCormick Send Letter Responding to FTO Designations on Haitian Gangs, Call on Rubio to Develop a Comprehensive Strategy on Haiti

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Gregory W Meeks (5th District of New York)

Washington, D.C. – Representative Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Co-Chair of the House Haiti Caucus, today sent a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressing concern over the State Department’s decision to designate gangs in Haiti as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) without even a concept of a plan for Haiti. The Members expressed their alarm that absent a clear and comprehensive plan to defeat those gangs and their enablers, this designation will unintentionally exacerbate the suffering of innocent Haitians and help gangs consolidate further control. The letter demands answers from the Secretary regarding the administration’s rationale for the designation absent an actual strategy to address the urgent needs of the Haitian people.

The full text of the letter can be found below. A PDF copy can be found here.

Dear Secretary Rubio,

We write to express our grave concern with the State Department’s stated intent to designate gangs in Haiti as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) without first having a comprehensive strategy to support Haitian authorities’ ability to counter the gangs. We call on you to develop an actual strategy that addresses the urgent needs of the Haitian people, support for stabilizing the security situation, and policies that support greater economic opportunity, including the HOPE/HELP trade preference agreement for Haitians. While we support efforts to target the financial support of violent gangs wreaking havoc on innocent Haitians, we are concerned that an FTO designation, absent a clear, comprehensive U.S. strategy to defeat the gangs and their enablers, is counterproductive and will only exacerbate Haitians’ suffering.

An FTO designation imposes broad legal and financial sanctions that deter non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and international agencies from operating due to fear of legal exposure—even when their work is purely humanitarian in nature. Humanitarian aid serves as an essential bulwark against the gangs and their control of local economic activity in Haiti, and an FTO designation risks creating a chilling effect on the delivery of this much needed assistance. The gangs exploit the security vacuum they helped create, recruiting young men and children with false promises of protection and pay. If an FTO designation undermines aid delivery across 85% of Port-au-Prince or in Haiti’s Artibonite department, it’s the Haitian people—not the gangs—who will be punished. As reports of cholera and scabies in Haiti are on the rise, and with your cutting of funds to programs like the Improved Health Service Delivery project, which provided health services for maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health, nutrition, HIV, tuberculosis, and water, sanitation and hygiene to over 3 million people, including 20,000 living with HIVAIDS, further cuts to humanitarian assistance will have devastating results.

We also believe the Department can make better use of sanctions authorities to levy targeted sanctions against individuals facilitating and benefitting from gang-fueled instability in Haiti. On August 20th, 2024, the Treasury Department sanctioned former President Michel Martelly for perpetuating the ongoing crisis in Haiti. If the State Department seeks more authorities to sanction enablers of Haiti’s crisis, we want to work with you to pass H.R. 2643, the Haiti Criminal Collusion Transparency Act of 2025, a bipartisan bill we have introduced that would levy sanctions on Haitian political and economic elites financing, arming, and benefitting from ongoing violence and the humanitarian crisis in Haiti. This legislation would enable a concerted effort against the gangs while keeping intact humanitarian assistance to Haitians enduring gang violence and instability. Prioritizing an FTO designation before taking full advantage of the other tools available to address the gang violence—like the use of additional unilateral or coordinated sanctions—or developing a strategy to make the Multilateral Support Mission effective is shortsighted. We remain concerned over the situation in Haiti and support a strong—and smart—U.S. response.

So, we urge you to reconsider any designation that would prove counterproductive in countering the gangs and further increase the suffering of innocent Haitians. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI: 26/2025・Trifork Group: Interim report for the quarter ending 31 March 2025
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Trifork Group AG
Company announcement no. 26/2025
Schindellegi, Switzerland – 6 May 2025
Interim Financial Report for the first quarter ending 31 March 2025

Trifork Group reports revenue growth of 14.1% and EBITDA growth of 29.4% in Q1 2025

CEO Jørn Larsen comments on the first quarter:
“Q1 showed good progress toward our strategic ambition of becoming a more product- and solutions-led business. To support this direction, we revamped Trifork.com in Q1 to highlight our full range of products and platforms, and I invite you to explore our current offering. AI continues to break new ground, and we now discuss AI with most of our customers in one form or another. Our platforms Corax and AI Assist are seeing strong interest as they bring significant value to our customers very fast, in a very flexible, scalable, and secure way without customers needing to employ large data science teams.

In Q1, we began to see the impact of several larger deals initiated in 2024. In Denmark, the good trend from Q4 continued in Q1, with the activities in the public sector increasing the most. The US business doubled its revenue and became the second-largest in the Group in Q1, proving that our IP-anchored strategy, executed in close collaboration with our Labs companies and global tech partners, can unlock new avenues of growth in revenue and profits.

We have now completed most of the organizational changes announced last year and have identified cost-saving measures expected to deliver annual savings of EUR 10 million based on 2024 activity levels. For the remainder of 2025, we will continue to focus on further optimization and cost-efficiency across the Group, and I am encouraged by the strong and constructive cost savings efforts of our entire organization.”

First quarter 2025
- Trifork Group
  - In Q1 2025, Trifork Group revenue amounted to EURm 57.5, a net increase of 14.1% from Q1 2024, the combined result of an organic growth of 10.8% and an inorganic growth of 3.5%. In the quarter, Trifork had EURm 4.2 more revenue from hardware and third-party licenses compared to Q1 2024. Excluding these revenues, Group revenue growth was 5.9% in Q1 2025.
  - Trifork Group adjusted EBITDA amounted to EURm 6.9, corresponding to growth of 29.4% compared to Q1 2024. The margin was 11.9% (Q1 2024: 10.5%). No special items were recorded.
  - Trifork Group EBIT amounted to EURm 2.8, corresponding to growth of 95.5% compared to Q1 2024. The margin was 4.9% (Q1 2024: 2.8%).
- Trifork Segment
  - In Q1 2025, adjusted EBITDA in the Trifork Segment amounted to EURm 7.4 (Q1 2024: EURm 5.8), corresponding to growth of 26.3%. The margin was 12.8% (Q1 2024: 11.6%).
  - Sub-segments
    
    Inspire revenue increased by 25.0% to EURm 0.7 and realized an adjusted EBITDA of EURm -0.8 (Q1 2024: EURm -1.0).
    
    Build revenue declined by -1.2% to EURm 38.3 and realized an adjusted EBITDA margin of 15.2% (Q1 2024: 15.7%).
    
    Run revenue increased by 68.5% to EURm 18.5. Adjusted for hardware and third-party licenses, revenue growth was 33.9%. The adjusted EBITDA margin was 15.0% (Q1 2024: 13.1%).
- Trifork Labs
  - In Q1 2025, fair value adjustment of Trifork Labs investments was EURm -0.1 (Q1 2024: EURm 2.0).
  - At 31 March 2025, the book value of active Labs investments amounted to EURm 82.7 (31 March 2024: EURm 73.4).
The financial outlook for full-year 2025 provided on 28 February is maintained:
- Revenue is expected to be in the range of EURm 215-225, equal to 4.4-9.3% total growth
- Organic revenue growth is expected in the range of 2.9-7.8%
- Adjusted EBITDA in Trifork Segment is expected in the range of EURm 32.0-37.0
- EBIT in Trifork Group is expected to be in the range of EURm 14.5-19.5.
The guidance does not include potential effects from new acquisitions or divestments.

Main events in the first quarter of 2025
- Inspire
  Q1 is seasonally a quarter with low conference activity. With more than 2 million views in Q1, the online GOTO universe have reached 83 million video views in total. At the end of the quarter, we had 1.1 million video subscribers. We are continuously sharpening our planning of events and have optimized our cost structure. Our business development efforts are anchored in technology partnerships, where workshop and conference presentations are central to the efforts. We hosted multiple events, including our Observability day in Copenhagen, and attended NVIDIA GTC together with Lenovo, who also co-attended an industrial conference in Germany with us. We held multiple events focusing on SAP.
- Build
  Build revenue accounted for 66.6% of Group revenue in Q1 and declined by 1.2% compared to the same quarter last year. We spent the quarter focusing our Build activities closer to our own product offerings so that focus is more on implementation, integration, and customization of these and building individual extensions on top. Generally, corporates continued to take a cautious approach to IT spending in light of the global economic and geopolitical uncertainty, but our business development efforts made up for some of the private market weakness. Our public sector customer base primarily consists of Danish engagements. Danish public revenue grew 23.4% in Q1 compared to the same quarter last year and accounted for 47% of revenue in Denmark. In Q1, we announced new engagements with SBSYS (41 municipalities and two regions) and Aalborg University, and a new partnership with Cognizant focused on testing-as-a-service for implementation with KOMBIT (all Danish municipalities).
- Run
  Run revenue accounted for 32.2% of Group revenue in Q1 and increased by 68.5% in Q1 compared to the same quarter last year (33.9% growth excluding revenues from third-party licenses and hardware, which can be volatile on a quarterly basis). In Q1, we revamped our website Trifork.com to increase focus on our products and platforms, which are central to our growth strategy and which provide more stability to our revenues as the licenses are sold on a recurring basis. Our Cloud Operations business has built a good pipeline supported by our Contain product offering, and it seems that the interest in cloud hosting in our Danish data centers increased in Q1. This was driven by both public and private customers. Our managed services security business continues to be in discussion with potential strategic partners to accelerate growth and market share, and we look forward to updating the market on the progress. Any potential deconsolidation is not included in the current financial guidance for the year. Overall, revenue within Hosting and Security operations increased by 23.2% in Q1.
- Trifork Labs
  No new investments or exits were completed in Trifork Labs in Q1. Activities in the quarter primarily included reviewing investment proposals from new or existing investors in individual Labs companies in relation to upcoming financing rounds, including the announced EURm 11.5 financing round in Dawn Health led by existing investors Chr. Augustinus Fabrikker and the Export and Investment Fund of Denmark (EIFO). We see this as a testament to continued strong belief in the company’s potential after showing significant progress with large pharma partners such as Merck and Novartis. The investment is aimed at supporting Dawn Health’s strategy to deliver its platform and product suite through a SaaS model, while continuing to invest in further offerings within the Dawn Product Suite.
Results presentation
Trifork will host a results presentation and Q&A session with CEO Jørn Larsen and CFO Kristian Wulf-Andersen today, 6 May 2025 at 11:00 CEST in a live webcast that can be accessed via the following link, or via the investor website:

https://trifork.zoom.us/j/96719631909?pwd=sI6nAeNybYebaVXxyFn3Wp8tpU5BOL.1#success

A recording will be made available on our investor website. More information can be found at https://investor.trifork.com/events/.

Investor & Media contact
Frederik Svanholm, Group Investment Director
frsv@trifork.com, +41 79 357 7317

About Trifork Group
Trifork is a pioneering and global technology partner, empowering enterprise and public sector customers with innovative digital solutions. With 1,215 professionals across 71 business units in 16 countries, Trifork specializes in designing, building, and operating advanced software across sectors such as public administration, healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, energy, financial services, retail, and real estate. The Group’s R&D arm, Trifork Labs, drives innovation by investing in and developing synergistic, high-potential technology companies. Trifork also owns GOTO, which inspires the global tech community through conferences and an online video channel with over 1.1 million subscribers and 83 million views. Trifork Group AG is publicly listed on Nasdaq Copenhagen. Learn more at trifork.com.

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The MIL Network –
May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Trade turnover between Shanghai and ASEAN countries continues to grow

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

SHANGHAI, May 6 (Xinhua) — In the first quarter of 2025, trade between Shanghai and ASEAN countries increased by 7.1 percent year on year, significantly exceeding the average foreign trade figures of the Chinese metropolis. By the end of 2024, the city’s foreign trade growth was 6.9 percent, according to Shanghai Customs.

Customs officials attribute the continued growth in trade turnover between Shanghai and ASEAN not only to geographical proximity, but also to the implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the work of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area (CAFTA).

Customs statistics show growth in trade between Shanghai and ASEAN in all three main forms: regular, duty-free and tolling. In 2024, foreign-invested enterprises and private companies, actively relying on the opportunities of RCEP and CAFTA, played the leading role in the metropolis’s foreign trade.

The complementary production structure and the fact that Shanghai and ASEAN differ in the division of labor have also had a positive impact on bilateral trade and have been recognized as the internal driving force behind its growth. For example, in 2024, Shanghai exported 162.63 billion yuan (US$1 is about 7.2 yuan) worth of machinery and electronics products to ASEAN countries, while importing 166.55 billion yuan worth of similar products. However, while the bulk of exports were microchips, mobile phones, and electrical control equipment, significant growth was observed in imports of semiconductor machinery equipment and flat-panel displays. Machinery and electronics products accounted for over 60 percent of the trade turnover between Shanghai and ASEAN.

Vietnam, Singapore and Malaysia were Shanghai’s largest trading partners among ASEAN countries. As of 2024, their share in trade turnover between the parties reached 62.5 percent.

The total bilateral trade volume last year was 582.79 billion yuan, accounting for 13.7 percent of Shanghai’s total foreign trade, up 0.7 percentage points from 2023 and making ASEAN the city’s second-largest trading partner after the EU. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: NSU hosted the first hackathon “Church’s Thesis” dedicated to the application of mathematical logic in IT

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

The hackathon “Church’s Thesis” was held for the first time at Novosibirsk State University. It is aimed at everyone interested in mathematical logic and its application in information technology. Both students of all courses of the Faculty of Information Technology (FIT) and the Faculty of Mechanics and Mathematics (MMF) of NSU, as well as schoolchildren, took part in the pilot competition. In total, more than 20 teams registered.

Welcoming remarks were given by Gulnara Erkinovna Yakhyaeva, Associate Professor of the Department of General Computer Science at the NSU Institute of Information Technologies, Lecturer of the course “Logical Foundations of Programming”, and Alexander Aleksandrovich Vlasov, Head of the Laboratory of Software Development and Systems on a Chip, Associate Professor of the Department of Computer Systems at the NSU Institute of Information Technologies. They shared modern challenges faced by specialists in the field of logic and programming.

The hackathon consisted of two stages: a theoretical one, which gave participants the opportunity to explore how logic is applied in everyday life; and a practical one, during which the guys solved applied problems: from program verification to optimizing compiler algorithms. The competition was high, and all teams demonstrated a high level of preparation.

Anton Chumak, the hackathon organizer, “Mathematical Logic Lover,” a 3rd-year student at the NSU Faculty of Information Technology, told us how the idea of holding the hackathon came about:

— When I was a first-year student, I heard my classmates complaining, “Why do we need mathematical logic?” or “Matlog is a subject that is disconnected from the rest of mathematics and any real-world problems.” In my second year, I taught additional classes on this subject and noticed that the general mood of first-year students was about the same. “An incomprehensible and useless subject,” some of them thought. And although the course in mathematical logic and the theory of algorithms is more abstract than linal or matan, it also has many practical applications, especially in IT. These areas include parsers, program verification, knowledge bases, artificial intelligence, expert systems, optimizing compilers, and much more. The problem is that first-year students do not see these applications when they need to study the proof of a model existence theorem (METH), and not many are motivated to complete the course well. Therefore, it seemed to me the right decision to introduce the students to problems that appear in leading companies and require knowledge of mathematical logic to solve. I hope this will change their attitude towards the course and the discipline in general.

As the organizers note, the main difficulty in preparing the hackathon was in compiling the tasks. Since the competition format is limited to one day, a team, even one consisting of three people, has little time to solve a complex problem. At the same time, it was important to show the versatility of applications, so it was necessary to offer the teams as many different tasks as possible. The final list included theoretical and practical tasks. Theoretical tasks were devoted to the application of mathematical logic in the daily life of a programmer. In the practical round, teams were asked to write their own Turing machine, an optimization algorithm for a compiler, specifications for verifying algorithms in distributed systems, and even their own knowledge base.

— I am pleased to note that almost all tasks were solved by at least one team! — added Anton Chumak.

The finale was a ceremonial awarding of the best teams. The winners received memorable prizes thanks to the support of partners: the organizers expressed special gratitude to the Dean’s Office of the NSU FIT, the NSU Department of Youth Policy and Educational Work, as well as the partner companies of the Faculty of Information Technology – Postgres Professional, YADRO, Ledas and the School of Data Analysis – for their contribution to the organization and holding of the hackathon.

The competition had 2 categories: for schoolchildren and first-year students, as well as a general category. There were 3 winning teams in each category.

Bulat Nazarov, captain of the winning team “Barebushki”, a fourth-year student of the Faculty of Information Technology of NSU, shared his impressions:

— Yes, we are so great — we won the hackathon! To be honest, we didn’t expect to perform so well, but we are very happy that we ended up taking 1st place. We were a little nervous at the start — we solved just enough in the theoretical part to not lose face. But then the practical part began, and everything went more fun: the first were tasks in C, then we switched to TLA (coding experience in this language: it was as if aliens were being taught human language, but in the end it worked). But the knowledge base is our pride! We beat everyone there in points. Our data search worked so clearly that even we ourselves are proud of it. It was especially nice to see how our solutions received a high rating. Many thanks to Anton for the recommendation, we are sincerely glad to have the opportunity to share our experience.

Denis Yeldov, a first-year student at the Faculty of Information Technology and a member of the winning team “Hotdog Master” in the first-year competition, spoke about how the hackathon went:

— At the first, theoretical stage, it was actually possible to solve almost all the tasks if we divided them between the team members, which is what we did. So it wasn’t that difficult. In the second round, there were practical tasks, some of which were created by FIT students, and some by leading IT companies. We again divided the tasks among the team, but when something didn’t work out, we asked each other for help. It was fun, the atmosphere was not tense. However, we were constantly encouraged to do the tasks faster, since the rating was displayed on the screen, which was updated online. The tasks were of medium difficulty, as well as complex, some of them had to be written in a completely new programming language, which was one of the main problems.

Both the organizers and the participants noted that the competitions had a friendly atmosphere. In addition to the tournament itself, there were breaks during which the teams communicated in an informal setting.

— I am extremely glad that students from the FIT and MMF, as well as schoolchildren, took part. The atmosphere at the competition was very kind and homely. I think that is how it should be when people who are close in spirit gather. I hope that next year even more participants and partners will join us, — Anton Chumak summed up.

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 –

May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Dynabook Launches Ultra-Light Portégé Z40L-N Copilot+PC with Self-Replaceable Battery

Source: Tairāwhiti Graduates Celebrate Success – Press Release/Statement:

Headline: Dynabook Launches Ultra-Light Portégé Z40L-N Copilot+PC with Self-Replaceable Battery

Dynabook ANZ launches the ultra-light Portégé Z40L-N, a 14” AI-powered business laptop featuring Intel® Core™ Ultra processors, Microsoft Copilot+ tools, robust security, and a self-replaceable battery—designed for mobile professionals needing performance, security, and portability.

The post Dynabook Launches Ultra-Light Portégé Z40L-N Copilot+PC with Self-Replaceable Battery first appeared on PR.co.nz.

– –

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT CELEBRATES FARMERS IN ACTION COMMUNITY PROJECT FUNDING WAIVER, GRANTED BY U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (USVI)

For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland
May 5, 2025 202-808-6129

PRESS RELEASE

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT CELEBRATES FARMERS IN ACTION COMMUNITY PROJECT FUNDING WAIVER, GRANTED BY U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Washington, D.C. – For the past two years, Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett and her team have actively worked with the St. Croix Farmers in Action (FIA) group to assist with the acquisition of funding for a sustainable water source for local farmers. During the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) appropriations process, FIA submitted a Community Project Funding (CPF) request to rehabilitate water infrastructure on Estate Bethlehem and were subsequently approved for $1 million dollars in community project funding, of which FIA would have to provide a non-federal match of $250,000.

FIA’s plans to rehabilitate Estate Bethlehem’s water infrastructure include an existing 1-million-gallon cistern on the Bethlehem Sugar Factory Site. This funding is critical as the cistern restoration would help fulfill the needs of farms and businesses whose economic success depends upon a consistent water source to maintain farmland. Within the past year, FIA faced significant challenges in providing the required funding match and requested assistance from the Congresswoman and her team.

Kareem Edwards, FIA board member shared, “FIA extends heartfelt gratitude for Congresswoman Plaskett’s unwavering advocacy and support of our organization and the broader agricultural community in the Virgin Islands. Thanks to Congresswoman Plaskett and her team’s dedicated efforts, we were able to secure the necessary USDA waiver to rehabilitate the million-gallon cistern on the island—a vital step toward strengthening our water infrastructure and enhancing the resilience of our farming operations. The Congresswoman’s commitment to championing the needs of St. Croix’s farmers continues to make a meaningful and lasting impact.”

Another FIA board member, Tahemah Edwards shared the following, “St. Croix Farmers in Action thanks the Honorable Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett and her staff for their vision, dedication, and collaboration in making the Bethlehem Sugar Factory Restoration site a reality. I would also like to thank Kareem Edwards, Tralice Bracy and the St. Croix Farmers in Action board of directors for their lobbying efforts.”

“This outcome is the result of true collaboration,” said Senator Angel Bolques, whose office provided a letter of support to the U.S. Department of Agriculture in pursuit of the waiver. “Our office worked closely with our Honorable Congresswoman Plaskett and her office, St. Croix Farmers in Action, USDA, and VIEDA—exploring every possible funding solution to help overcome the financial barriers to assist with securing this vital waiver. I’m so proud to have contributed to this effort and remain committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen our agricultural infrastructure and empower our farmers.”

“I am tremendously pleased that FIA has received a waiver of the match that USDA-Rural Development (USDA-RD) originally required to access the funding provided to rehabilitate existing cistern infrastructure to support the farmers of St. Croix,” said Congresswoman Plaskett. “I commend FIA and the board members, led by Tahemah Edwards and his nephew, Kareem Edwards, for their diligence and perseverance in pursuit of agricultural development and advocacy for St. Croix farmers. I would also like to thank the Senator Angel Bolques and his team for their advocacy and presence on FIA’s behalf.

“USDA-RD’s decision to waive the match, particularly during this political climate speaks well of our ability to galvanize our efforts in order to get things done for our territory.”

Pictured below, right to left: FIA Volunteer – Tralice Bracy, Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett, FIA Board Member – Paulette Edwards, FIA Board Member Tahemah Edwards, Representatives from Senator Angel Bolques’s office – Judy Torres and Marcellino Ventura

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MIL OSI USA News –

May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Once were (AI) sceptics

Source:

The Haps

David Seymour’s speech to the Tauranga Business Chamber has been widely praised. More would get done if the Government had fewer Ministers. Parliament comes out of a three-week recess into three weeks of sitting that will culminate in the Budget on May 22nd. For years ACT published Alternative Budgets showing how the Government could afford two per cent of GDP on Defence. Now two per cent is happening and the weekend’s helicopter announcement is just the beginning. Meanwhile a journalist wrongly accused Free Press of ‘misinformation’ while trying to defend media standards. We are not making this up.

Once were (AI) sceptics

The future’s always been a bit disappointing when we get to it, like for those of us who are STILL waiting for flying cars. (Nerdy) children of the ‘90s grew up watching Beyond 2000, a weekly program devoted to the technologies that would change our lives in the next millennium if we survived Y2K. The same program wouldn’t work today, people would roll their eyes at the earnestness of it all.

At Free Press, we’ve kept off the Artificial Intelligence bandwagon, maybe because we’ve lived long enough to be a little sceptical. We never lost hundreds of thousands of lives to COVID, and neither did countries with far more relaxed policies towards it. Climate change was supposed to bring apocalypse by 2010, and 2020 was too scary to think about, according to the usual suspects. Yet, here we all are.

Most of the people who go on endlessly about AI couldn’t even give you a short, sharp definition of what it is. They can’t explain why it is more than just another software development. The eighties gave us spreadsheets, the nineties email, and the noughties social networks. All of them had an effect, but they haven’t transformed life as we know it.

What’s more, it was kind of a toy, as recently as a year ago, the hype of ChatGPT had come and gone. People found it too often ‘hallucinated’ firing out such crazy solutions that you definitely wouldn’t use it for anything important. So, what’s changed?

In the last year the progress has been staggering, and it’s the rate of change itself that stands out. By now MPs could ask Chat GPT, Perplexity, or Grok for advice, on say, a briefing to a select committee from officials. It could produce a set of policy proposals according to different levels of political ambition while the officials are still speaking. The level of intelligence and nuance is extraordinary, and the rate of change more so.

For business, the opportunities are extraordinary. We don’t pretend to give businesspeople advice, too many people in the political world think they’re business experts. What we do know is that tasks such as interacting with customers can have massive labour savings. An online doctor consultation can be summarised with perfect notes produced before the patient is out the clinic door. It’s all very exciting.

What about education? Twelve-year-olds are saying their main source of information is ChatGPT or Perplexity. If they want to know something they don’t Google it, they don’t watch the news and they certainly don’t get a book from the library. They ask an AI program and talk to it like a virtual friend.

That sets off a lot of questions. Where is the ability to think for themselves? If they can get an answer to any question in seconds, do they need to know anything? If AI can solve all their problems, what space remains for humans? Is it schools’ jobs to prepare them to live in this world, and are schools remotely equipped to do so?

Where do the blunt bans on mobile phones and social media for young people fit in? Do they preserve a human sphere so kids can get to know themselves without dependence on machines, or do they leave kids even more naive and unprepared to live in that world?

If that’s education, how about the public service? They’ve always been slow to take on technology. They’re sclerotic thanks to fear of privacy laws. Yet at the same time the public sector has been eating money for too long and badly needs productivity growth.

We once were sceptics, but the last year of progress has changed our mind. AI is big. It’s at least as big as spreadsheets, emails, and online social networks. With the Chinese Government reported to be making AI a compulsory subject for six-year-olds this year, New Zealand policy will need to raise its sights from its usual debates and ask what our philosophy on AI is…

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: News 05/5/2025 Blackburn Praises Commerce Committee’s Passage of Her Bills to Protect Consumers in the Online Ticket Marketplace and Enhance 9-1-1 Emergency Response System

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement after her bipartisan Mitigating Automated Internet Networks for (MAIN) Event Ticketing Act to strengthen consumer protections in the online ticket marketplace and Enhancing First Response Act to update the classification of 9-1-1 dispatchers passed out of the Senate Commerce Committee:
“Fans shouldn’t have to fight bots and scammers when trying to buy tickets online, and I’m thrilled the Commerce Committee has moved the MAIN Event Ticketing Act one step closer to becoming law so we can protect consumers in the online ticket marketplace. The Commerce Committee also passed my bipartisan Enhancing First Response Act, which would make important updates to our 9-1-1 emergency reporting system and prevent service disruptions,” said Senator Blackburn.
MAIN EVENT TICKETING ACT
In 2016, President Obama signed Senator Blackburn’s legislation, the Better Online Ticket Sales (BOTS) Act, into law, which prohibits ticket scalpers from using software to purchase high volumes of tickets.
Creating reporting requirements whereby online ticket sellers must report successful bot attacks to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC);
Requiring the FTC to share consumer complaints submitted through their website to state attorneys general;
Enacting data security requirements for online ticket sellers and requires the sharing of information between the FTC and law enforcement; and
Requiring a report to Congress on BOTS enforcement.
The MAIN Event Ticketing Act is co-sponsored by U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.).
Click here for bill text.
ENHANCING FIRST RESPONSE ACT
The Enhancing First Response Act would:
Update the classification of 9-1-1 dispatchers in the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) from clerical workers to protective service workers to better reflect life-saving work performed by them each day;
Require the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to hold an annual hearing and issue a report after major natural disasters on 9-1-1 unreachability and make recommendations to improve the resiliency of 9-1-1 systems to prevent future service disruptions;
Require the FCC to study unreported 9-1-1 outages and develop recommendations to improve outage reporting and communication between mobile carriers experiencing network outages and 9-1-1 centers.
The Enhancing First Response Act is sponsored by U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.).
Click here for bill text.
RELATED

MIL OSI USA News –

May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Balikatan 25 | 3d MLR Concludes Maritime Key Terrain Security Operations in Batanes

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

BATANES ISLAND CHAIN, Philippines — U.S. Marines and Sailors with 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, 3d Marine Division, supported by U.S. Marines with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, U.S. Soldiers with 25th Infantry Division, and Philippines Marines with Marines Battalion Landing Team 10, concluded the Maritime Key Terrain Security Operations event during Exercise Balikatan 25 with the retrograde of forces from the Batanes islands to Northern Luzon, May 2, 2025.

MIL Security OSI –

May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI: DMG Blockchain Solutions Announces Preliminary April Operational Results
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — DMG Blockchain Solutions Inc. (TSX-V: DMGI) (OTCQB: DMGGF) (FRANKFURT: 6AX) (“DMG” or the “Company”), a vertically integrated blockchain and data center technology company, today announces its preliminary operational results for April 2025:
- Bitcoin Mined: 30 BTC (vs 32 BTC in Mar 2025)
- Hashrate: 1.93 EH/s (vs 1.82 EH/s in Mar 2025)
- Bitcoin Holdings: 351 BTC (vs 458 BTC in Mar 2025)
DMG’s April results reflect stable mining operations alongside key strategic investments. The Company mined 30 BTC during the month, slightly down from 32 BTC in March due to increased network difficulty and one day shorter duration. Meanwhile, DMG increased its realized hashrate to 1.93 EH/s, supported by the deployment of additional Bitmain S21+ Hydro miners and has now reached its 2.1 EH/s target, which may be slightly trimmed on an ongoing operational basis, at least through the summer months, to best manage its fleet in a higher ambient temperature environment.

DMG liquidated a portion of its Bitcoin holdings, reducing its treasury from 458 BTC in March to 351 BTC in April. Proceeds were used mainly to fund the acquisition of 2 megawatts capacity of prefabricated artificial intelligence (AI) data center infrastructure as well to make the first material paydown on its Sygnum Bank loan, which had a $20 million balance at the end of March. These actions mark a significant step in executing DMG’s broader strategy to shift its data center capacity towards AI, while delevering its balance sheet.

Sheldon Bennett, DMG’s CEO, commented, “We remain focused on advancing our AI strategy while maintaining a cash generating Bitcoin operation. With the purchase of 2 megawatts of AI data center infrastructure, we have made a demonstrative shift to utilize the returns generated from Bitcoin mining to fund our initial AI capital expenditures, which we believe will accelerate our ability to secure off-take agreements. Our focus remains on high-value government and enterprise users seeking sovereign AI solutions for Canada.”

About DMG Blockchain Solutions Inc.

DMG is a publicly traded and vertically integrated blockchain and data center technology company that manages, operates and develops end-to-end digital solutions to monetize the digital asset and artificial intelligence compute ecosystems. Systemic Trust Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of DMG, is an integral component of DMG’s carbon-neutral Bitcoin ecosystem, which enables financial institutions to move Bitcoin in a sustainable and regulatory-compliant manner.

For additional information about DMG Blockchain Solutions and its initiatives, please visit www.dmgblockchain.com. Follow @dmgblockchain on X, LinkedIn and Facebook, and subscribe to the DMG YouTube channel to stay updated with the latest developments and insights.

For further information, please contact:

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

Sheldon Bennett, CEO & Director
Tel: +1 (778) 300-5406
Email: investors@dmgblockchain.com
Web: www.dmgblockchain.com

For Investor Relations:
investors@dmgblockchain.com

For Media Inquiries:
Chantelle Borrelli
Head of Communications
chantelle@dmgblockchain.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking information or statements based on current expectations. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release include statements regarding DMG’s strategies and plans, executing on DMG’s broader strategy to shift its data center capacity towards AI, securing high-value AI off-take agreements, the opportunity and plans to monetize bitcoin transactions and provide additional products and services to customers and users, the continued investment in Bitcoin network software infrastructure and applications, the expected allocation of capital, developing and executing on the Company’s products and services, increasing self-mining, increasing hashrate, efforts to improve the operation of its mining fleet, the potential trimming of self-mining due to higher ambient temperature environment, the launch of products and services, events, courses of action, and the potential of the Company’s technology and operations, among others, are all forward-looking information.

Future changes in the Bitcoin network-wide mining difficulty rate or Bitcoin hashrate may materially affect the future performance of DMG’s production of bitcoin, and future operating results could also be materially affected by the price of bitcoin and an increase in hashrate mining difficulty.

Forward-looking statements consist of statements that are not purely historical, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations, or intentions regarding the future. Such information can generally be identified by the use of forwarding-looking wording such as “may”, “expect”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “believe” and “continue” or the negative thereof or similar variations. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including but not limited to, market and other conditions, volatility in the trading price of the common shares of the Company, business, economic and capital market conditions; the ability to manage operating expenses, which may adversely affect the Company’s financial condition; the ability to remain competitive as other better financed competitors develop and release competitive products; regulatory uncertainties; access to equipment; market conditions and the demand and pricing for products; the demand and pricing of bitcoin; the demand and pricing of Gen AI data centers and usage; security threats, including a loss/theft of DMG’s bitcoin; DMG’s relationships with its customers, distributors and business partners; the inability to add more power to DMG’s facilities; DMG’s ability to successfully define, design and release new products in a timely manner that meet customers’ needs; the ability to attract, retain and motivate qualified personnel; competition in the industry; the impact of technology changes on the products and industry; failure to develop new and innovative products; the ability to successfully maintain and enforce our intellectual property rights and defend third-party claims of infringement of their intellectual property rights; the impact of intellectual property litigation that could materially and adversely affect the business; the ability to manage working capital; and the dependence on key personnel. DMG may not actually achieve its plans, projections, or expectations. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future, including the demand for its products, the ability to successfully develop software, that there will be no regulation or law that will prevent the Company from operating its business, anticipated costs, the ability to secure sufficient capital to complete its business plans, the ability to achieve goals and the price of bitcoin. Given these risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The securities of DMG are considered highly speculative due to the nature of DMG’s business. For further information concerning these and other risks and uncertainties, refer to the Company’s filings on www.sedarplus.ca. In addition, DMG’s past financial performance may not be a reliable indicator of future performance.

Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include, failure to obtain regulatory approval, the continued availability of capital and financing, equipment failures, lack of supply of equipment, power and infrastructure, failure to obtain any permits required to operate the business, the impact of technology changes on the industry, the impact of viruses and diseases on the Company’s ability to operate, secure equipment, and hire personnel, competition, security threats including stolen bitcoin from DMG or its customers, consumer sentiment towards DMG’s products, services and blockchain and Gen AI technology generally, failure to develop new and innovative products, litigation, adverse weather or climate events, increase in operating costs, increase in equipment and labor costs, equipment failures, decrease in the price of Bitcoin, failure of counterparties to perform their contractual obligations, government regulations, loss of key employees and consultants, and general economic, market or business conditions. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Additionally, the Company undertakes no obligation to comment on the expectations of or statements made by third parties in respect of the matters discussed above.

The MIL Network –
May 6, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for May 6, 2025

ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 6, 2025.

Fiji media welcomes credible news services, but not ‘pop-up propagandists’, says Simpson
By Anish Chand Entities and individuals that thrived under the previous government with public relations contracts now want to be part of the media or run media organisations, says Fiji Media Association (FMA) secretary Stanley Simpson. He made the comments yesterday while speaking at a World Press Freedom Day event hosted by the journalism programme

Locked up then locked out: how NZ’s bank rules make life for ex-prisoners even harder
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Victoria Stace, Senior Lecturer, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington FotoDax/Shutterstock People coming out of prison in New Zealand face multiple hurdles reintegrating into society – starting with one of the most fundamental elements of modern life: getting a bank account. Not having a bank

Can a wooden spoon really stop a pot from boiling over? Here’s the science
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jay Deagon, Senior Lecturer of Home Economics, CQUniversity Australia Alexanderstock23/Shutterstock One moment, your spaghetti is happily bubbling away in the pot. A minute later, after busying yourself with something else, you turn around to find a hot mess all over your stove. Boiling liquid can rocket up

How did sport become so popular? The ancient history of a modern obsession
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Konstantine Panegyres, Lecturer in Classics and Ancient History, The University of Western Australia Roman mosaics discovered in Sicily show women playing different sports. David Pineda Svenske/Shutterstock It’s almost impossible to go a day without seeing or hearing about sport. Walk around any city or town and you

AI systems are built on English – but not the kind most of the world speaks
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Celeste Rodriguez Louro, Associate professor, Chair of Linguistics and Director of Language Lab, The University of Western Australia Reihaneh Golpayegani / Better Images of AI, CC BY An estimated 90% of the training data for current generative AI systems stems from English. However, English is an international

Crikey, ChatGPT’s gone bush! How AI is learning the art of Aussie slang
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ross Yates, Lecturer, Project Management, Edith Cowan University Shutterstock Ever tried to explain why a sausage would be referred to as a “snag” while overseas, or why the toilet is the “dunny”? If you found this challenging, spare a thought for large language models (LLMs) such as

What are the key risk factors for developing knee osteoarthritis? We reviewed the evidence
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Christina Abdel Shaheed, Associate Professor, School of Public Health, University of Sydney Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disease, affecting more than 3 million Australians and over 500 million people worldwide. The knee is the most commonly affected joint, but osteoarthritis can also affect other joints including

We’ve heard the promises. Now it’s up to Labor to deliver its housing, wages and other economic policies
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Cull, Associate Professor of Accounting and Financial Planning, Western Sydney University With a convincing win for a second term of government, the pressure is now on the new Labor government to deliver the economic policies central to its win. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is wary of

Labor has the chance to do something big in its second term. What policy reforms should it take on?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Yee-Fui Ng, Associate Professor, Faculty of Law, Monash University Dan Breckwoldt/Shutterstock Labor’s historic election victory means the Albanese government has a rare opportunity to pursue a big, bold reform agenda. The scale of the victory all but guarantees a third term in office after the next election

‘I got sent something of people shooting themselves’ – research shows young people can’t avoid harmful content online
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dougal Sutherland, Clinical Psychologist, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington Leon Neal/Getty Images A new report from New Zealand’s Classification Office has revealed how young people are being exposed to harmful content online and what it is doing to their mental health. The Classification Office

Caitlin Johnstone: It was never about hostages. It was never about Hamas
Report by Dr David Robie – Café Pacific. – COMMENTARY: By Caitlin Johnstone Benjamin Netanyahu said last Thursday that freeing the Israeli hostages in Gaza was not his top priority, suggesting instead that defeating Hamas should take precedence over a hostage deal. “We have many objectives, many goals in this war,” Netanyahu said. “We want

Viral video shows Fiji prison chief throwing punches at Suva bar
RNZ Pacific The head of Fiji’s prison service has been caught on camera involved in a fist fight that appears to have taken place at the popular O’Reilley’s Bar in the capital of Suva. Sevuloni Naucukidi, the acting Commissioner of the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS), can be seen in the viral video throwing punches at

PINA on World Press Freedom Day – facing new and complex AI challenges
By Kalafi Moala in Nuku’alofa On this World Press Freedom Day, we in the Pacific stand together to defend and promote the right to freedom of expression — now facing new and complex challenges in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This year’s global theme is “Reporting a Brave New World: The impact of Artificial

Late counting continues in several seats, with Goldstein and Melbourne among those too close to call
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne With 78% of enrolled voters counted, the ABC is calling 85 of the 150 House of Representatives seats for Labor, 39 for the Coalition, zero for the

Pacific ‘story sovereignty’ top of mind on World Press Freedom Day
By Michelle Curran of Pasifika TV World Press Freedom Day is a poignant reminder that journalists and media workers are essential for a healthy, functioning society — including the Pacific. Held annually on May 3, World Press Freedom Day prompts governments about the need to respect press freedom, while serving as a day of reflection

View from The Hill: a budding Trump-Albanese bromance?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra It took an election win, but Anthony Albanese on Monday finally received that much-awaited phone call from US President Donald Trump. The conversation was “warm and positive,” the prime minister told a news conference, thanking the president for “reaching out”.

In its soul-searching, Australia’s rightist coalition should examine its relationship with the media
ANALYSIS: By Matthew Ricketson, Deakin University and Andrew Dodd, The University of Melbourne Among the many lessons to be learnt by Australia’s defeated Liberal-National coalition parties from the election is that they should stop getting into bed with News Corporation. Why would a political party outsource its policy platform and strategy to people with plenty

Is it dangerous to kiss someone who’s eaten gluten if you have coeliac disease?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Vincent Ho, Associate Professor and Clinical Academic Gastroenterologist, Western Sydney University Lordn/Shutterstock Coeliac disease is not a food allergy or intolerance. It’s an autoimmune disease that makes the body attack the small intestine if gluten (a protein found in wheat, rye and barley) reaches the gut. Even

After its landslide win, Labor should have courage and confidence on security – and our alliance with the US
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joanne Wallis, Professor of International Security, University of Adelaide The re-election of the Albanese Labor government by such a wide margin should not mean “business as usual” for Australia’s security policy. The global uncertainty instigated by US President Donald Trump means Australia’s security landscape is very different

5 huge climate opportunities await the next parliament – and it has the numbers to deliver
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anna Skarbek, Climateworks CEO, Monash University Australians have returned an expanded Labor Party to government alongside a suite of climate-progressive independents. Meanwhile, the Coalition – which promoted nuclear energy and a slower renewables transition – suffered a historic defeat. Labor also looks set to have increased numbers

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 229

Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

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

URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Tornado Watch Number 229
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
855 PM CDT Mon May 5 2025

The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

* Tornado Watch for portions of
Far Southeast New Mexico
West into Southwest and South-Central Texas

* Effective this Monday night and Tuesday morning from 855 PM
until 400 AM CDT.

* Primary threats include…
A couple tornadoes possible
Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 3
inches in diameter likely
Scattered damaging winds and isolated significant gusts to 75
mph possible

SUMMARY…Severe thunderstorms are forecast to continue across the
Permian Basin this evening. Additional severe thunderstorms are
forecast farther southeast into the Pecos Valley and Edwards Plateau
regions. It is here that scattered supercells are forecast to
evolve by late evening and persist into the overnight. Moist low
levels with strengthening flow fields will support supercells
potentially capable of a couple of tornadoes, large to very large
hail, and severe gusts.

The tornado watch area is approximately along and 80 statute miles
north and south of a line from 50 miles west southwest of Hobbs NM
to 50 miles south southeast of Junction TX. For a complete depiction
of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS
WOU9).

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

&&

OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 227…WW 228…

AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
surface and aloft to 3 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
gusts to 65 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
storm motion vector 21035.

…Smith

SEL9

URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Tornado Watch Number 229
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
855 PM CDT Mon May 5 2025

The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

* Tornado Watch for portions of
Far Southeast New Mexico
West into Southwest and South-Central Texas

* Effective this Monday night and Tuesday morning from 855 PM
until 400 AM CDT.

* Primary threats include…
A couple tornadoes possible
Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 3
inches in diameter likely
Scattered damaging winds and isolated significant gusts to 75
mph possible

SUMMARY…Severe thunderstorms are forecast to continue across the
Permian Basin this evening. Additional severe thunderstorms are
forecast farther southeast into the Pecos Valley and Edwards Plateau
regions. It is here that scattered supercells are forecast to
evolve by late evening and persist into the overnight. Moist low
levels with strengthening flow fields will support supercells
potentially capable of a couple of tornadoes, large to very large
hail, and severe gusts.

The tornado watch area is approximately along and 80 statute miles
north and south of a line from 50 miles west southwest of Hobbs NM
to 50 miles south southeast of Junction TX. For a complete depiction
of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS
WOU9).

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

&&

OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 227…WW 228…

AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
surface and aloft to 3 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
gusts to 65 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
storm motion vector 21035.

…Smith

Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
SAW9
WW 229 TORNADO NM TX 060155Z – 060900Z
AXIS..80 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
50WSW HOB/HOBBS NM/ – 50SSE JCT/JUNCTION TX/
..AVIATION COORDS.. 70NM N/S /51NW INK – 49SSE JCT/
HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..3 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..65 KNOTS.
MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 21035.

LAT…LON 33560401 31019945 28699945 31240401

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

Watch 229 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

Note: Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

Mod (40%)

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

Low (20%)

Wind

Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

Mod (50%)

Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

Mod (50%)

Hail

Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

Mod (60%)

Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

Mod (60%)

Combined Severe Hail/Wind

Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

High (90%)

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

MIL OSI USA News –

May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Robust performance of listed firms highlights vitality, resilience of Chinese economy

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

This photo taken on April 25, 2025 shows robot IRON of Xiaopeng at the 21st Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition in east China’s Shanghai. [Photo/Xinhua]

Most companies listed on China’s A-share market delivered robust performance last year, underscoring the vitality and resilience of the world’s second-largest economy.

As of Tuesday, 5,304 firms listed on Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges had released their financial reports for 2024, with 66.42 percent achieving profits, according to financial information provider Wind Info. Notably, 19.21 percent posted a year-on-year net profit increase of over 20 percent.

These reports reflect the underlying strength of the Chinese economy, buoyed by ongoing industrial transformation and a steady buildup in innovation capacity, said Zhu Keli, a researcher with the China Institute of New Economy.

New engines

Financial disclosures showed emerging sectors, from artificial intelligence and new energy to advanced manufacturing, are becoming fresh growth engines driving China’s economic development.

According to data from the main board of the Shanghai Stock Exchange, nearly half of China’s top 50 listed firms by market capitalization in 2024 came from emerging industries, a marked increase in both number and proportion.

The auto and electronics sectors stood out among emerging industries with stellar net profit growth. The auto industry posted an 11.16 percent year-on-year expansion in net profit while the electronics sector surged 35.18 percent from a year ago, underlining the strong momentum in tech-related manufacturing.

Auto parts supplier Shuanglin Group, for instance, reported a more than fivefold increase in net profit last year, driven by rising demand from electric vehicle (EV) makers including BYD and Changan Auto. The company has also secured new orders from EV brands like AVATR.

In the electronics sector, Will Semiconductor Co., Ltd. Shanghai, saw its business performance register marked growth last year, with operating revenue hitting a record high. The leading semiconductor producer credited its rapid expansion to a rebound in the semiconductor sector and surging demand for high-end smartphones and intelligent vehicles in the market.

Innovation-driven growth

Technological innovation emerged as a notable feature of corporate performance last year. China’s listed companies have been increasingly bets on frontier and disruptive technologies, playing a pivotal role in the country’s broader push for innovation-driven growth.

Data showed that in 2024, A-share firms accounted for more than half of corporate research and development (R&D) spending nationwide and held nearly one-third of all the country’s patents. The R&D intensity, measured by R&D expenditure as a share of operating revenue, gained 0.1 percentage points from a year ago to 2.6 percent.

Chongqing-based automaker Seres, which collaborates with Huawei on AITO cars, invested nearly 7 billion yuan (about 972 million U.S. dollars) in R&D last year, a surge of about 60 percent year on year. Its R&D crew also expanded by about a quarter from a year ago to over 6,200 people.

By maintaining a strong focus on R&D, the firm has tapped global frontier technologies and innovation resources, facilitating the integration of software and automotive technologies, said Zhang Xinghai, chairman of the company.

These financial reports underline the faster integration between traditional and emerging industries in the Chinese economy, with listed firms proactively sharpening competitive edges, Zhu said, adding that the country is fostering diversified growth engines amid the pursuit of high-quality development.

In the annual government work report released in March, China’s policymakers have pledged to make solid progress in high-quality development, outlining measures to modernize its industrial system and advance the integration of technological and industrial innovation, among others.

MIL OSI China News –

May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Chinese automaker backs Indonesia’s green industry push as main partner in AIGIS 2025

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

This photo taken on Feb. 13, 2025 shows the booth of Jaecoo, a brand of Chinese automaker Chery, during the 2025 Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS) in Jakarta, Indonesia. [Photo/Xinhua]

JAECOO, an SUV brand under China’s Chery Group, has been trusted as the main partner in organizing the 2nd Annual Indonesia Green Industry Summit (AIGIS) to be held this August, a flagship initiative launched by Indonesia’s Ministry of Industry to accelerate the country’s progress toward its 2060 net-zero emissions target.

“This involvement reflects JAECOO’s long-term commitment to supporting Indonesia’s green industry ecosystem through technological innovation and strategic collaboration,” the company said in a press release on Sunday.

As part of the AIGIS program, the 2025 National Green Industry Forum was held in Bandung on April 30, bringing together over 300 stakeholders from government, industry, and research institutions.

Discussions focused on the adoption of low-carbon technologies, improvements in energy efficiency, and the advancement of green innovation.

The forum highlighted the urgent need for industrial transformation, noting that Indonesia’s industrial sector accounts for 34 percent of greenhouse gas emissions and contributes 41 percent to the nation’s GDP.

JAECOO officially entered the Indonesian market in early 2025, introducing its J7 model equipped with the Super Hybrid System (SHS), a solution designed to combine environmental sustainability with powerful urban mobility.

“I was surprised by the pre-booking price. It’s very competitive for a vehicle with this level of capability,” said Deputy Minister of Industry Faisol Reza, who test-drove the J7 SHS at the forum. “PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) technology like this is far more efficient and cost-effective than conventional hybrids (HEVs).”

As a brand rooted in new energy innovation, JAECOO shares a common vision with the Indonesian government’s green development roadmap.

According to the company, its participation in AIGIS reflects a commitment to delivering real technology and real action for a sustainable future.

MIL OSI China News –

May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Betty McCollum and Outdoor Advocates Condemn President Trump’s Actions Limiting Access to BWCA Permits

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn)

SAINT PAUL, Minn. — On Thursday afternoon, the U.S. Forest Service notified Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) permit holders that they will no longer be able to collect permits at two of their busiest ranger stations—the Kawishiwi Ranger Station in Ely and the Gunflint Station in Grand Marais. Congresswoman Betty McCollum issued the following statement in response:

“The BWCA and America’s public lands are national treasures that belong to all of us. These special places are also essential to the economy of Minnesota,” said Congresswoman McCollum, the author of legislation to permanently protect the Boundary Waters. “Visitors from across the U.S. and around the world who come to experience the BWCA every year drive a vibrant and thriving economy in our state. Elon Musk and President Trump’s decisions to freeze hiring, illegally cut funding, and fire thousands of public servants in our U.S. Forest Service has directly resulted in this reduced access to visitor use permits for the Boundary Waters. It will add additional burdens on visitors as well as the local businesses who serve them.”

“I stand with outdoor advocates and local businesses in opposing the Trump administration’s dismantling of the U.S. Forest Service and the resulting hurdles for those who want to enjoy and care for our public lands. I will fight this and other efforts by Elon Musk and Donald Trump to cut services that Americans rely on,” added Congresswoman McCollum.

“Recent cuts to the U.S. Forest Service have serious consequences for northeastern Minnesota’s economy and the health of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness,” said Ingrid Lyons, Executive Director of Northeastern Minnesotans for Wilderness. “Reduced staffing not only undermines the Forest Service’s ability to manage and protect the Wilderness, but it also places an unfair burden on local small businesses that rely on the area’s responsible use. Strong stewardship of the Boundary Waters requires collaboration and capacity. Undermining the Forest Service weakens the very foundation of this effort—putting both the natural landscape and the communities that depend on it at risk. Now more than ever, we need robust investment in the agencies that protect our public lands, so they can continue to serve both the Wilderness and the people who care for it.”

“This is a perfect example of how Trump and Elon Musk are putting the interests of billionaires over the interests of ordinary Americans,” said Chris Knopf, Executive Director of Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness. “Hollowing out the Forest Service so that it cannot do basic functions like issue permits for people to experience the wonders of the Boundary Waters does not serve the American people. On behalf of the 200,000 people who visit the Boundary Waters each year, we demand that the Trump administration restore these basic services.”

“The Forest Service announcement means 5,500 permit holders will need to find a different location for permit issuance,” Jason Zabokrtsky, Founder and Manager of Ely Outfitting Company. “This shift places a strain on permit issuing outfitters to assume that responsibility. It also means that the Forest is losing its best in-person opportunity for educating groups going into the BWCAW about Wilderness rules and regulations, Leave-no-trace ethics, and best practices. Proper education of BWCAW travelers is now more important than ever since the Forest Service has been forced to reduce BWCAW maintenance, including portage trail maintenance. Boundary Waters travelers should expect to see a lower level of basic maintenance of the Wilderness this summer. Also, due to staff and funding reductions, we are concerned about the ability of the Forest to manage potential significant natural events such as fires or windstorms that may affect the Boundary Waters this summer. Canada has paused their Remote Area Border Crossing Permit program indefinitely. They have not indicated why they have paused it, but when our two countries were on friendly relations it was operational. This has severely restricted the ability of Ely area businesses to outfit groups traveling to Quetico Provincial Park via Prairie Portage. We are also receiving notices of significant price increases from our vendors due to tariff increases. Altogether, these multiple impacts are placing a significant economic strain on businesses that support Boundary Waters travelers.”

###

MIL OSI USA News –

May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Mayor Johnston, Governor Polis, Attorney General Weiser, Senator Bennet, Congressman Neguse & Congresswoman Pettersen Release Letter to Colorado General Assembly on A.I.

Source: US State of Colorado

DENVER – Today, Mayor Johnston, Governor Polis, Attorney General Weiser, Senator Bennet, Congressman Neguse and Congresswoman Pettersen released the following letter to the Colorado General Assembly on A.I.

“For decades, Colorado has served as a national leader in the technology innovation sector. Our state is proud to be home to cutting-edge companies and national laboratories that drive our economy and jobs, while also championing groundbreaking consumer protection laws like the Colorado Consumer Protection Act.

Over the past year, stakeholders and legislators together have worked to find the right path forward on Colorado’s first-in-the-nation artificial intelligence regulatory law created by SB24-205. This bill established a regulatory framework that seeks to lower the risk of algorithmic discrimination in AI-based decision-making technology.

The stakeholder collaboration that took place over many months leading up to and during the 2025 legislative session brought many ideas, concerns, and priorities to the table from a wide range of communities. However, with just hours remaining in the 2025 legislative session, it is clear that more time is needed to continue important stakeholder work to ensure that Colorado’s artificial intelligence regulatory law is effective and implementable.

Together, we implore leadership and members of the Colorado General Assembly to take action now to delay implementation of SB 24-205 until January 2027. Colorado communities in every corner of our state deserve the benefit of well-crafted artificial intelligence consumer protection law that more time for stakeholder engagement and policy development work will bring.

This pause will allow consumer advocates, Colorado’s business community, and other states to collaborate on a balanced, future-ready framework – one that protects privacy and fairness without stifling innovation or driving business away from our state.”

###

MIL OSI USA News –

May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Review of EU rules on pigeons – E-001659/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001659/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Hilde Vautmans (Renew)

EU law (Regulation (EU) 2016/429 and Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/687) classifies pigeons as ‘captive birds’ even though scientific studies show that they are a ‘dead-end host’ for the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV). The regulations do not take sufficient account of differences in susceptibility between bird species, although HPAIV is now endemic in wild populations.

In addition, EU legislation does not distinguish between Newcastle Disease (NCD) in poultry and Pigeon Paramyxo Virus (PMV) in pigeons. This could lead to unjustified trade restrictions and loss of NCD-free status in the event of a PMV outbreak. In line with WOAH recommendations, the industry advocates recognising this distinction and limiting measures pertaining to NCD in poultry.

Finally, the sector stresses the importance of providing for derogations for pigeon racing, given its genetic and cultural value and the negligible risk of it spreading HPAIV.

1.Is the Commission willing, in cooperation with EFSA and the WOAH, to adapt regulations to the species-specific sensitivity of birds, such as pigeons?

2.Can the Commission authorise derogations for low-risk bird species, such as racing pigeons?

3.Will the Commission make a clear distinction between NCD and PMV in the EU legislation?

Submitted: 24.4.2025
Last updated: 5 May 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Music created by artificial intelligence – competition between humans and machines? – E-000733/2025(ASW)
Source: European Parliament
Directive (EU) 2019/790[1] introduced a set of rules to ensure creators’ fair remuneration and an exception allowing, under certain conditions, the use of protected works and other subject matter for the purposes of text and data mining. Rightholders may opt out from the exception by expressing their reservation in an appropriate manner.

The Commission is working to support the effective implementation of the reservation mechanism. In particular, the Commission will soon launch a study to assess the opportunity of introducing a central registry of opt-outs which could make it easier for rightholders to express their rights reservation.

The Artificial Intelligence Act[2] establishes transparency obligations for deployers of artificial intelligence (AI) systems to disclose the existence of generated or manipulated content, including artistic content, in an appropriate manner that does not hamper the work’s display or enjoyment.

The AI Office is tasked with enabling the drawing up of codes of practice to facilitate the effective implementation of the obligations on the detection and labelling of artificially generated or manipulated content.

The implementation of the labelling obligations on music content will contribute to increase transparency on the use of AI-generated music and uphold the unique value of human creativity.

The Commission will further examine the opportunities and challenges related to the use of AI for music creators and artists before deciding whether to propose potential further measures. The Commission is currently developing an AI strategy for cultural and creative industries.

[1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2019/790/oj/eng

[2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=OJ:L_202401689
Last updated: 5 May 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Kim, Connolly Bill to Support Taiwan Passes House
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)

Washington, DC – Today, the House passed the Taiwan International Solidarity Act (H.R. 2416), a bipartisan bill led by Reps. Young Kim (CA-40) and Gerry Connolly (VA-11) to counter Beijing’s attempts to exclude Taiwan from participating in international organizations.

“Beijing continues to do all it can to isolate Taiwan from the outside world and silence Taiwan’s voice on the world stage. Taiwan has a track record of success in democracy and global health security, and its perspective deserves to be heard,” said Kim, who serves as chairwoman of the House Foreign Affairs East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee. “The Taiwan International Solidarity Act helps the United States demonstrate through meaningful action our support for Taiwan’s status in international organizations. I’m glad the House could show our bipartisan support for Taiwan today. Taiwan’s participation in global conversation is the world’s gain.” 

“For too long, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) has distorted policies and procedures at international organizations to assert its sovereignty claims over Taiwan, often to the detriment of global health, governance, and security efforts,” said Connolly. “This bipartisan legislation ensures that we stand against Beijing’s weaponization of international organizations and in solidarity with the wishes and best interests of the people of Taiwan. I am thrilled it has passed the House today.”

The Taiwan International Solidarity Act builds on the Taiwan Allies International Protection and Enhancement Initiative (TAIPEI) Act, which was signed into law in March 2020, to further counter the People Republic of China’s attempts to weaponize international organizations to claim that Taiwan is part of China by distorting the language, policies, and procedures of international organizations by:
- Clarifying that U.N. General Assembly Resolution 2758 does not preclude the United States from using its vote, voice, and influence to resist the reckless campaign against Taiwan’s place on the world stage.
- Encouraging the U.S. to work with allies and partners to oppose the People’s Republic of China’s efforts to undermine Taiwan’s diplomatic relationships and partnerships globally. 
- Expanding reporting requirements to include information relating to any prior or ongoing attempts by the People’s Republic of China to undermine Taiwan’s participation in international organizations as well as its ties and relationships with other countries. 
Read the bill here.  

MIL OSI USA News –
May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Ahead of projected “Trump Slump,” Governor Newsom announces record-high tourism — again
Source: US State of California 2
May 5, 2025
What you need to know: California remains the #1 state for tourism, with record-high tourism spending reaching $157.3 billion in 2024. However, the Trump administration’s policies and rhetoric are driving away tourists, killing tourism and hospitality jobs, and already leading to decreased tourism projections.

SACRAMENTO — Governor Newsom and Visit California today announced that California’s tourism spending continued to grow in 2024, reaching a record-high of $157.3 billion in tourism spending throughout the state — an increase of 3% from 2023, another record-spending year. This comes after recent news that California’s economy is now the fourth-largest economy in the world and experienced a population increase for the second year in a row.

“California dominates as a premier destination for travelers throughout the nation, and around the globe. With diverse landscapes, top-rate attractions, and welcoming communities, California welcomes millions of visitors every year. We also recognize that our state’s progress is threatened by the economic impacts of this federal administration, and are committed to working to protect jobs and ensure all Californians benefit from a thriving tourism industry.”

Governor Gavin Newsom

The announcement comes with the release of Visit California’s 2024 Economic Impact Report and revised 2025 forecast released today. According to Visit California’s report, in 2024:

Visitors spent $157.3 billion at businesses across the state.

Tourism spending supported 1.2 million jobs and created 24,000 new jobs.

$12.6 billion in state and local tax revenues was generated from tourism.

Economic progress at risk of Trump Slump

However, the forecast also anticipates a 1% dip in overall visitation and a 9.2% decline in international visitation in 2025, in direct response to federal economic policy and an impending “Trump Slump.” Looking ahead, 2025 is projected to be more challenging, particularly due to global economic pressures and a slowdown in international tourism, the direct result of declining global sentiment about travel to the United States. California is already seeing the impact, with a sharp year-over-year decline in March of this year.

In anticipation of the slump caused by the Trump administration, Governor Newsom and Visit California are encouraging Californians to continue to travel within the state to help support the booming tourism industry. The Governor has also launched a new campaign encouraging Canadian consumers to continue to travel to the Golden State.

More people moving to California

In addition to record-breaking tourism, California is welcoming more new residents. Governor Newsom recently announced California’s population increased for the second year in a row. The announcement also noted that previous reports that California’s population had declined by hundreds of thousands of people in 2021 and 2023 were found inaccurate, and since 2021, California’s population has increased by nearly 275,000 people.

California’s economic leadership

With a nation-leading GDP and more Fortune 500 companies than any other state, California’s economy remains a global powerhouse driven by diversity, creativity, and opportunity.

4th largest economy in the world: California’s $4.1 trillion GDP recently surpassed Japan.

#1 in the nation: Leads the U.S. in Fortune 500 companies, new business starts, venture capital access, manufacturing output, high-tech industries and agriculture.

Major trade powerhouse: Over $675 billion in two-way trade, making California the largest importer among U.S. states and a key driver of job creation.

Manufacturing hub: Home to 36,000+ manufacturing firms, employing over 1.1 million workers, with strengths in aerospace, electronics, and zero-emission vehicles.

AI & innovation leader: California hosts 32 of the world’s top 50 AI companies and produces 25% of global AI patents and conference papers.
Recent news

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MIL OSI USA News –
May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Digital Trade Agreement with Singapore – E-000906/2025(ASW)
Source: European Parliament
Negotiations on the EU-Singapore Digital Trade Agreement (DTA) were concluded in July 2024[1]. When ratified, the DTA w ill complement the existing EU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (FTA)[2] that was concluded at a time when the EU had not yet developed a modern digital trade chapter for its FTAs.

The DTA contains state-of-the-art digital trade rules and builds on the EU-Singapore Digital Partnership[3], which focuses on regulatory cooperation on digital policies, including artificial intelligence (AI).

The DTA’s rules on the protection of software source code follow the EU’s approach that carefully balances, on the one hand, the need to uphold EU’s competitiveness by ensuring protection against forced technology transfers by means of mandating source code disclosure as a condition for market access, and, on the other hand, the need to ensure space for legitimate and effective regulatory oversight, in line with EU’s competition and digital acquis.

These rules focus on eradicating market distortive practices that threaten to erode the EU’s industrial base and that cannot be effectively addressed solely by the rules on the protection of intellectual property.

The Commission considers this approach consistent with EU law, including the AI Act[4]. In this regard, the text agreed with Singapore specifically references the need to ensure safe and trustworthy AI as a legitimate public policy objective, ensuring the possibility for competent authorities to require access to source code where justified and subject to safeguards against unauthorised disclosure.

This includes inter alia requirements to access source code for conformity assessment procedures for AI systems.

[1] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/statement_24_3983

[2] OJ L 294, 14.11.2019; https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=OJ%3AL%3A2019%3A294%3ATOC

[3] https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/library/eu-singapore-digital-partnership

[4] Regulation (EU) 2024/1689; https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1689/oj/eng
Last updated: 5 May 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – US influencing of media in the EU through USAID – E-001047/2025(ASW)
Source: European Parliament
The EU has taken several measures to safeguard media independence and prevent undue influence from third countries. The provisions of European Media Freedom Act[1], generally applicable from 8 August 2025, establish transparency requirements for media ownership and state advertising revenues, including those received from third-country public authorities or entities.

They also mandate that public funds for state advertising in media or supply or service contracts with media be allocated through transparent, proportionate, and non-discriminatory criteria.

The Commission also co-finances the Media Pluralism Monitor and a media ownership monitoring project. However, these measures do not include monitoring of external donations or measures to prevent external donations.

The Commission does not have an overview of the media outlets that have received funds from USAID.

[1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32024R1083
Last updated: 5 May 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: San Jose AI Solutions Company Agrees To Pay $1.5 Million To Resolve Allegations That It Improperly Obtained Federal Grant Funds

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

SAN FRANCISCO – Vimaan Robotics, Inc. (Vimaan), a San Jose-based company that develops computer vision and AI warehouse management solutions, has agreed to pay $1.5 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by improperly accepting and drawing down funds from a grant award that it was ineligible to receive.

The settlement relates to a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II grant that Vimaan obtained from the National Science Foundation (NSF). The terms and conditions of the SBIR grant preclude companies that are majority-owned by one or more venture capital operating companies from applying for or receiving such an award. The settlement resolves allegations by the United States that at the time Vimaan received the award on April 16, 2020, Vimaan failed to disclose that it had become majority-owned by one or more venture capital companies one month earlier, making it ineligible for the award. Between June 2020 and August 2022, the United States contends, Vimaan submitted 14 separate requests to NSF for disbursement of the award funds and falsely certified its eligibility to receive the award funds in each of these payment requests.

“Federal small business research grants awarded by NSF are designed to support and foster innovative research by small businesses, not to provide taxpayer funding for businesses primarily owned by venture capital firms,” said Acting United States Attorney Patrick D. Robbins. “When companies evade program restrictions and obtain grants even though they are not eligible, this office will vigorously enforce the False Claims Act to ensure that federal dollars go to proper recipients.”

“The SBIR program is a valuable tool in advancing NSF’s mission to promote the progress of science by increasing opportunities for small businesses to undertake cutting-edge scientific research. Entities that misrepresent their eligibility in order to obtain government funding undermine the integrity and effectiveness of the program. The NSF Office of Inspector General is committed to vigorously pursuing oversight of these taxpayer funds and I commend the U.S. Attorney’s Office for its strong support in this effort,” said Megan E. Wallace, NSF’s Acting Inspector General.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Savith Iyengar handled this matter for the government. The investigation and settlement resulted from a coordinated effort by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California and NSF-OIG.

The investigation and resolution of this matter illustrate the government’s emphasis on combating fraud in federal grants. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement involving NSF can be reported to NSF’s Office of Inspector General at https://oig.nsf.gov/contact/hotline.

The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.

Vimaan Settlement Agreement

MIL Security OSI –

May 6, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More girls to study maths under plans to improve pathway into AI careers
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

More girls to study maths under plans to improve pathway into AI careers

Government invests £8.2m to boost girls’ advanced maths skills and AI careers.
Thousands of the country’s brightest girls will get the opportunity to study advanced maths and progress into AI-related careers, as the government invests in the skills young people need for the jobs of tomorrow.

Currently only a third of A level maths pupils are girls, while currently only 22% of professionals working in AI related roles like software engineer or data science are women.

Now through the government’s Plan for Change around 7,500 girls will be eligible for support as part of £8.2m of funding announced today to improve participation and teaching of advanced maths. The funding, part of the refreshed Advanced Maths Support Programme, will target support to thousands of pupils from 400 disadvantaged secondary schools – breaking the link between background and success so all young people have the chance to progress in careers of the future.

Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, said:

Today’s brightest maths minds are tomorrow’s AI pioneers, and this government is opening the door for groups who have so far been left behind in the AI revolution.

Through our Plan for Change we are breaking down barriers to opportunity, backing our young people and going further and faster for AI growth, ensuring the next generation can progress in the exciting careers of the future.

The updated Advanced Maths Support Programme includes pilot teacher training and student enrichment courses on the key maths concepts and skills needed for AI and this will benefit 450 students and 360 teachers from September.

It marks a crucial step in delivering a key commitment in the government’s AI Action Plan – creating a strong talent pipeline and driving greater diversity across the AI talent pool.

It comes as the Education Secretary convenes a group of experts to advise on what changes are needed to the 5-18 education system to improve digital education and give young people the AI-specific skills they need to thrive in a digital world. The Digital, AI and Technology Task and Finish Group chaired by Sir Kevan Collins, non-executive board member at the Department for Education, will provide recommendations to the department and insights for the Curriculum and Assessment Review so they can draw on this expertise.

Members include Rose Luckin, Professor of Learner-Centred Design at University College London and Dr Sue Sentance, Director of the Raspberry Pi Computing Education Research Centre at the University of Cambridge and Chair of the BCS Schools and Colleges Committee.

Science Secretary, Peter Kyle said:

AI is the defining technology of our generation, improving our public services, sparking fresh economic growth, and unlocking the jobs of the future. We can only harness that potential if we have a pipeline of talent equipped with the skills they need for the jobs of tomorrow.

This package of support will help us deliver our Plan for Change and do exactly that. This is the first step in our plan to give every young person in the country the opportunity to develop the tools which will put them front and centre in delivering our AI-powered future.

DfE media enquiries

Central newsdesk – for journalists 020 7783 8300

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Published 6 May 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
May 6, 2025

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More girls to study maths under plans to improve pathway into AI careers

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