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Category: Eurozone

  • MIL-OSI: SUTNTIB AB Tewox publishes its NAV for June 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Vilnius, Lithuania, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As at the end of June 2025, the net asset value (NAV) of SUTNTIB AB Tewox decreased to EUR 46,370,405, compared to the previously determined NAV of EUR 46,740,384 at the end of May 2025.

    The share price decreased to EUR 1.1077, from EUR 1.1165 at the end of May 2025. The pro-forma internal rate of return (IRR) decreased to 3.26%, compared to previously announced IRR of 3.62% at the end of May 2025.

    Contact person for further information:

    Paulius Nevinskas

    Manager of the Investment Company

    paulius.nevinskas@lordslb.lt

    https://lordslb.lt/tewox_bonds/

    The MIL Network –

    July 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Video: Launch of the Sevilla Platform for Action – UN Chief remarks | #FFD4 | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (video statements)

    Remarks by António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, at the Launch of the Sevilla Platform for Action – 4th International Conference on Financing for Development FFD4 (Sevilla, Spain).

    “Mr. President of the Government of Spain, dear Pedro Sánchez,

    Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

    Thank you for joining this launch of the Sevilla Platform for Action.

    Respected President of the Government of Spain — I commend you and your government for your vision and leadership as hosts of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development.

    We are all here to respond to a global development crisis that threatens people and planet alike.

    Our roadmap to a better future — the Sustainable Development Goals — is in danger.

    Two-thirds of the targets are not progressing fast enough — or at all.

    Solutions depend on financing.

    Developing countries need over $4 trillion a year to deliver on the 2030 Agenda.

    But they are being battered by limited fiscal space, slowing growth, crushing debt burdens and growing systemic risks.

    The Sevilla Commitment document represents a bold plan to get the engine of development revving again:

    Through new domestic and global commitments that can channel public and private finance to the areas of greatest need…

    By overhauling the world’s approach to debt to make borrowing work in service of sustainable development…

    And by reforming the global financial architecture to reflect today’s realities and the urgent needs of developing countries.

    But we need all hands on deck.

    And that’s why the Sevilla Platform for Action is so critical — and so significant.

    In the midst of a world of division, conflict and economic uncertainty, this Platform contains more than 130 specific initiatives that demonstrate what we can achieve by working together.

    Governments, private sector partners, international institutions, and civil society groups all together are teaming up to launch high-impact initiatives to bring the Sevilla Commitment to life.

    This includes a global hub for debt swaps at the World Bank as part of a broader facility aimed at relieving liquidity constraints and lowering the cost of borrowing.

    A debt pause alliance to help countries in times of crisis.

    A global coalition to scale-up pre-arranged finance that can be readily deployed when disasters strike.

    A blended finance platform to bring public and private finance together in a new and expanded way.

    A new tool for Multilateral Development Banks to manage currency risks.

    And a commission to explore the future of development cooperation.

    In December, I appointed a group of experts on debt who today are announcing 11 immediately actionable proposals to help resolve the debt crisis.

    This includes the commitment to establish a borrowers forum for countries to learn from one another and coordinate their approaches in debt management and restructuring.

    I look forward to working closely with Member States — including the G20 — to bring this forum to life, to empower borrower countries, and create a fairer system.

    Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

    The Sevilla Platform for Action offers an ambitious, action-oriented response to the global financing challenge.

    It provides a springboard toward a more just, inclusive, and sustainable world for all countries.

    And above all, it proves that progress and change are possible if we work together.

    I hope the Platform inspires countries to work as one to tackle other challenges facing our world today.

    Once again, I thank Prime Minister Sánchez and all of you for your leadership.

    Thank you”.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wh9SxgKKHmw

    MIL OSI Video –

    July 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: VATICAN – 14 priests ordained by Pope Leo from the Pontifical Urban College “de Propaganda Fide”

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Tuesday, 1 July 2025

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – On the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and on the occasion of the XXIX World Day of Prayer for the Sanctification of Priests, instituted by John Paul II in 1995, Pope Leo XIV ordained 32 new priests in the Vatican Basilica, 14 of whom come from the Pontifical Urban College “de Propaganda Fide.” Among them Andige Channindu (Colombo, Sri Lanka), Gbatar Emmanuel (Makurdi, Nigeria), Ham Francesco (Seoul, South Korea), Joseph Abishek (Sultanpet, India), Lakew Deribe (Harar, Ethiopia), Lee Angelo (Seoul, South Korea), Llamango Ndouloukoli Eusèbe Marius (Bossangoa, Central African Republic), Maria James Ajith (Kottar, India), Menounga Ngonoi Claude (Batouri, Cameroon), Mombai De-Kpilima Christ Friedrich (Bangui, Central African Republic), Ngalo Felicien (Mbaiki, Central African Republic), Ngo Giovanni Battista (Vinh, Vietnam), Santos Daniel (Mbanza Kongo, Angola) and Tika Gilbert (Damongo, Ghana).”The priests recently ordained by Pope Leo XIV come from ten different countries in Africa and Asia,” Armando Nugnes, rector of the Pontifical Urban College “de Propaganda Fide,” explained to Fides. “They have experienced this opportunity with profound gratitude toward God and the Church, feeling the responsibility to bear witness to the richness of Catholicism in their countries through the generosity of the service that will be asked of them.”This year, the Pontifical Urban College welcomed 168 students, including seminarians and deacons, along with nearly 300 priests from the Colleges of Saints Peter and Paul, as well as about 100 nuns from the Mater Ecclesiae College in Castel Gandolfo. “This gift has been great,” emphasizes Rector Nugnes, “not only for the candidates who received the grace of the ministerial priesthood from the Holy Father in the context of the Jubilee Year, but also for the entire community that was able to accompany these brothers, exceptionally, until the day of their ordination, with prayer and sharing in the joy. Normally, the Urban College’s formative plan provides that deacons, after completing their licentiate studies, return to their dioceses of origin to receive priestly ordination and begin their missionary ministry.” (EG) (Agenzia Fides, 1/7/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Applied Systems Announces New Alliance Partnership

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Chicago, IL., July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Applied Systems® today announced FirstChoice, a MarshBerry Company, as its newest Alliance Partner, delivering educational resources and innovative technology to its members. Through the Applied Partner Program, FirstChoice helps its member agencies seamlessly connect to the digital roundtrip of insurance by providing access to Applied’s Digital Agency and EZLynx’s agency management technology, enabling them to create operational efficiency at every stage of the lifecycle and grow their business.

    “As volatile premium rates and an increased emphasis on digital marketplaces and personalized customer service continue to change the industry, we are committed to ensuring our member agencies are equipped to succeed,” said Keith Captain, president, FirstChoice. “Partnering with Applied gives FirstChoice members the resources, tools, and strategic support they need to embrace technology solutions so they can enable sustained and profitable revenue growth.” 

    Applied’s Digital Agency solution consists of a foundational management system, payment hub, online customer self-service and mobile technology, commercial lines application digitization and automation, and insurer connectivity, all hosted in the cloud. The fully integrated solution enables agencies to create higher-value business transactions and deliver superior customer experiences throughout the entire insurance lifecycle. By leveraging integrated applications that enable agencies to manage their entire business and eliminate duplicative work typically caused by multiple, disparate systems, digital agencies operate more efficiently, improve customer service, and accelerate growth and profitability across all lines of business.

    EZLynx’s integrated agency management technologies provide comparative rating, agency management and automation, commercial submissions, retention tools, consumer quoting, email marketing, text messaging, online client self-servicing, and so much more. The system maximizes agencies’ potential by increasing their ability to retain current customers while acquiring new business. By providing a central location, EZLynx enables agents to generate and store quotes, policies and documents, as well as easily remarket with up-to-date information that is synced from agents’ daily policy downloads. Through advanced automation and the ability to seamlessly connect to insurers and insureds, agents using EZLynx improve productivity, simplify management, optimize serviceability and increase profitability. 

    The Applied Alliance Partner Program creates additional value in the independent insurance distribution channel by providing greater resources to networks and their agencies for sustainable business growth. Through collaboration, the program identifies and engages insurance network membership organizations on technology and market initiatives that benefit their business and member agencies. Learn more about the Applied Alliance Partner Program.

    “Technology continues to create new business and service models that help independent agents keep up with consumer demands and become better business partners to their insured clients,” said Chris Cline, vice president, sales, alliance partnerships, Applied Systems. “We are proud to welcome FirstChoice to the Applied Partner Program, delivering their members access to technology best practices, industry expertise and Applied product solutions that strengthen customer relationships and drive growth for their businesses.”

    # # #

    The Applied products and logos are trademarks of Applied Systems, Inc., registered in the U.S.

    About Applied Systems
    Applied Systems is the leading global provider of cloud-based software that powers the business of insurance. Recognized as a pioneer in insurance automation and the innovation leader, Applied is the world’s largest provider of agency and brokerage management systems, serving customers throughout the United States, Canada, the Republic of Ireland, and the United Kingdom. By automating the insurance lifecycle, Applied’s people and products enable millions of people around the world to safeguard and protect what matters most.

    MarshBerry – Helping Clients Learn, Improve & Realize Value
    MarshBerry is a global leader in financial services and consulting dedicated to helping insurance brokerages, and firms in the wealth management industry, achieve sustained growth and value for every stage of ownership. With a legacy spanning over 40 years, MarshBerry offers an extensive suite of services, including Investment Banking (Merger & Acquisition Advisory; Capital Raising), Financial Consulting (Strategic Planning; Valuations; Perpetuation Planning), Organic Growth Consulting (Leadership, Sales & Talent Solutions), Executive Peer Exchange, Agency Network and Market Intelligence and Performance Benchmarking. For more information, visit www.MarshBerry.com.

    The MIL Network –

    July 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Multi-stakeholder Round Table 3: Revitalizing International Development Cooperation

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    The Conference holds its third multi-stakeholder round table this afternoon on “Revitalizing international development cooperation”.

    Pedro Sánchez, President of Spain, will make opening remarks.

    Co-Chaired by KP Sharma Oli, Prime Minister of Nepal, and Ana Isabel Xavier, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Vice-Minister of State and Foreign Affairs of Portugal, it will feature a special address by Andrzej Duda, President of Poland, and a keynote address by Ho Duc Phoc, Deputy Prime Minister of Viet Nam.

    Haoliang Xu, Acting Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), will moderate the discussion.

    Panelists will include:  Jozef Síkela, Commissioner of International Partnership of the European Commission; Thorgerdur Katrin Gunnarsdottir, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iceland; Henry-Claude Oyima, Minister of State, Ministry of the Economy, Finance and Debt of Gabon; and Maropene Ramokgopa, Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation of South Africa. 

    Ilan Goldfajn, President of the Inter-American Development Bank, and Liqun Jin, President of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, will be the discussants.

    …

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    July 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Global: Pop, soda or coke? The fizzy history behind America’s favorite linguistic debate

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Valerie M. Fridland, Professor of Linguistics, University of Nevada, Reno

    ‘I’ll have a coke – no, not Coca-Cola, Sprite.’ Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

    With burgers sizzling and classic rock thumping, many Americans revel in summer cookouts – at least until that wayward cousin asks for a “pop” in soda country, or even worse, a “coke” when they actually want a Sprite.

    Few American linguistic debates have bubbled quite as long and effervescently as the one over whether a generic soft drink should be called a soda, pop or coke.

    The word you use generally boils down to where you’re from: Midwesterners enjoy a good pop, while soda is tops in the North and far West. Southerners, long the cultural mavericks, don’t bat an eyelash asking for coke – lowercase – before homing in on exactly the type they want: Perhaps a root beer or a Coke, uppercase.

    As a linguist who studies American dialects, I’m less interested in this regional divide and far more fascinated by the unexpected history behind how a fizzy “health” drink from the early 1800s spawned the modern soft drink’s many names and iterations.

    Bubbles, anyone?

    Foods and drinks with wellness benefits might seem like a modern phenomenon, but the urge to create drinks with medicinal properties inspired what might be called a soda revolution in the 1800s.

    An 1878 engraving of a soda fountain.
    Smith Collection/Gado via Getty Images

    The process of carbonating water was first discovered in the late 1700s. By the early 1800s, this carbonated water had become popular as a health drink and was often referred to as “soda water.” The word “soda” likely came from “sodium,” since these drinks often contained salts, which were then believed to have healing properties.

    Given its alleged curative effects for health issues such as indigestion, pharmacists sold soda water at soda fountains, innovative devices that created carbonated water to be sold by the glass. A chemistry professor, Benjamin Stillman, set up the first such device in a drugstore in New Haven, Connecticut, in 1806. Its eventual success inspired a boom of soda fountains in drugstores and health spas.

    By the mid-1800s, pharmacists were creating unique root-, fruit- and herb-infused concoctions, such as sassafras-based root beer, at their soda fountains, often marketing them as cures for everything from fatigue to foul moods.

    These flavored, sweetened versions gave rise to the linking of the word “soda” with a sweetened carbonated beverage, as opposed to simple, carbonated water.

    Seltzer – today’s popular term for such sparkling water – was around, too. But it was used only for the naturally carbonated mineral water from the German town Nieder-Selters. Unlike Perrier, sourced similarly from a specific spring in France, seltzer made the leap to becoming a generic term for fizzy water.

    Many late-19th-century and early 20th-century drugstores contained soda fountains – a nod to the original belief that the sugary, bubbly drink possessed medicinal qualities.
    Hall of Electrical History Foundation/Corbis via Getty Images

    Regional naming patterns

    So how did “soda” come to be called so many different things in different places?

    It all stems from a mix of economic enterprise and linguistic ingenuity.

    The popularity of “soda” in the Northeast likely reflects the soda fountain’s longer history in the region. Since a lot of Americans living in the Northeast migrated to California in the mid-to-late 1800s, the name likely traveled west with them.

    As for the Midwestern preference for “pop” – well, the earliest American use of the term to refer to a sparkling beverage appeared in the 1840s in the name of a flavored version called “ginger pop.” Such ginger-flavored pop, though, was around in Britain by 1816, since a Newcastle songbook is where you can first see it used in text. The “pop” seems to be onomatopoeic for the noise made when the cork was released from the bottle before drinking.

    A jingle for Faygo touts the company’s ‘red pop.’

    Linguists don’t fully know why “pop” became so popular in the Midwest. But one theory links it to a Michigan bottling company, Feigenson Brothers Bottling Works – today known as Faygo Beverages – that used “pop” in the name of the sodas they marketed and sold. Another theory suggests that because bottles were more common in the region, soda drinkers were more likely to hear the “pop” sound than in the Northeast, where soda fountains reigned.

    As for using coke generically, the first Coca-Cola was served in 1886 by Dr. John Pemberton, a pharmacist at Jacobs’ Pharmacy in Atlanta and the founder of the company. In the 1900s, the Coca-Cola company tried to stamp out the use of “Coke” for “Coca-Cola.” But that ship had already sailed. Since Coca-Cola originated and was overwhelmingly popular in the South, its generic use grew out of the fact that people almost always asked for “Coke.”

    No alcohol means not ‘hard’ but ‘soft.’
    Nostalgic Collections/eBay

    As with Jell-O, Kleenex, Band-Aids and seltzer, it became a generic term.

    What’s soft about it?

    Speaking of soft drinks, what’s up with that term?

    It was originally used to distinguish all nonalcoholic drinks from “hard drinks,” or beverages containing spirits.

    Interestingly, the original Coca-Cola formula included wine – resembling a type of alcoholic “health” drink popular overseas, Vin Mariani. But Pemberton went on to develop a “soft” version a few years later to be sold as a medicinal drink.

    Due to the growing popularity of soda water concoctions, eventually “soft drink” came to mean only such sweetened carbonated beverages, a linguistic testament to America’s enduring love affair with sugar and bubbles.

    With the average American guzzling almost 40 gallons per year, you can call it whatever you what. Just don’t call it healthy.

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

    – ref. Pop, soda or coke? The fizzy history behind America’s favorite linguistic debate – https://theconversation.com/pop-soda-or-coke-the-fizzy-history-behind-americas-favorite-linguistic-debate-259114

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    July 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Video: Adapting to change: Ensuring price stability in a new geopolitical era

    Source: European Central Bank (video statements)

    How does geopolitical uncertainty affect inflation? How do we keep monetary policy fit for purpose in a rapidly changing world? And what are the main topics at this year’s ECB Forum in Sintra, Portugal?

    In the first episode of our special Sintra series for The ECB Podcast, our host Paul Gordon discusses all these questions and more with Chief Economist and Executive Board member, Philip R. Lane.

    The views expressed are those of the speakers and not necessarily those of the European Central Bank.

    Published on 25 June 2025 and recorded on 16 June 2025.

    In this episode:
    01:28 The ECB Governing Council lowered key interest rates to 2%.
    What was the motivation behind the decision?

    04:30 How do we ensure that risks and uncertainties are integrated into the monetary policy decision-making process?
    What is our baseline? What factors need to be taken into account?

    06:44 Alternative scenarios in the latest projections
    Why do we communicate our “what if” scenarios?

    08:11 Meeting-by-meeting, data-dependent approach
    Why do we follow this approach?

    09:50 Strategy review
    How can we make sure our strategy is up to date?

    12:02 High-level uncertainty
    How do we factor heightened uncertainty in our strategy?

    13:50 ECB Forum on Central Banking in Sintra, Portugal
    What is the ECB Forum and what’s behind it? What’s the goal of the Forum? What’s Philip R. Lane looking forward to?

    16:53 Our guest’s hot tip
    Philip R. Lane shares his hot tip.

    Programme of ECB Forum on Central Banking in Sintra, Portugal
    www.ecb.europa.eu/press/conference…_banking.en.html

    Ken Rogoff “Our dollar, your problem”
    yalebooks.yale.edu/book/9780300275…r-your-problem/

    ECB Instagram
    www.instagram.com/europeancentralbank/

    European Central Bank
    www.ecb.europa.eu

    ECB Banking Supervision
    www.bankingsupervision.europa.eu/home/htm….en.html

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

    MIL OSI Video –

    July 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Video: Minister Maropene Ramokgopa participates at Multi Stakeholder Round Table 3 at the FfD4 summit.

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements)

    Minister Maropene Ramokgopa participates at Multi Stakeholder Round Table 3 at the FfD4 summit in Seville, Spain.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CuowdaSTr1A

    MIL OSI Video –

    July 2, 2025
  • From Ghana to Brazil: PM Modi’s five-nation tour to cement South-South cooperation

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    rime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a five-nation tour on Tuesday covering Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, Brazil and Namibia, marking an important push to strengthen India’s ties with Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean.

    First Indian PM visit to Ghana in three decades

    Prime Minister Modi will begin his tour with an official visit to Ghana on July 2 and 3- the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the West African nation in 30 years.

    The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the visit holds special significance as Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama recently assumed office after a decisive electoral victory. PM Modi and President Mahama, who share a history of engagement since the India-Africa Forum Summit in 2015, will discuss ways to deepen bilateral ties.

    Key areas on the agenda include agriculture, defence cooperation, critical minerals, and a possible vaccine hub to serve West Africa. India’s capacity-building initiatives like the ITEC programme have long contributed to Ghana’s human resource development. Officials expect the two sides to sign MoUs in areas such as traditional medicine, standards and cultural exchange.

    Trinidad and Tobago: marking 180 years of Indian arrival

    From July 3 to 4, PM Modi will visit Trinidad and Tobago, marking the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister since 1999. The visit coincides with the 180th anniversary of the arrival of Indian immigrants to the island nation, which hosts one of the largest Indian-origin communities in the Caribbean.

    In Port of Spain, PM Modi will hold wide-ranging discussions with President Christine Carla Kangaloo, and Prime Minister Kamala Prasad Bisessar, both of whom are of Indian origin. Talks will cover cooperation in pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, digital public infrastructure, agriculture, disaster resilience, education and culture.

    Highlighting the shared heritage, PM Modi will address a joint session of the Trinidad and Tobago Parliament and interact with the vibrant Indian diaspora.

    Argentina visit: tapping new opportunities

    PM Modi’s next stop will be Argentina on July 4 and 5 – the first standalone bilateral visit by an Indian PM to Argentina in nearly six decades.

    Officials said the visit is timely as Argentina pursues major economic reforms and offers new avenues for partnership. PM Modi will hold talks with President Javier Milei, focusing on boosting cooperation in defence manufacturing, digital technology, telemedicine, mining and renewable energy.

    Argentina’s vast reserves of lithium, copper and rare earths align with India’s push for secure and sustainable critical mineral supplies. India’s KABIL has already secured mining concessions in Argentina this year. Discussions will also cover food security, green energy, infrastructure, science and technology.

    Brazil: BRICS summit and bilateral talks

    PM Modi will then travel to Brazil to attend the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro on July 6 and 7. The theme for this year’s summit — “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for Inclusive and Sustainable Governance” — aligns with India’s foreign policy priorities.

    Leaders will deliberate on reforming global governance, peace and security, climate change and artificial intelligence. India expects key outcomes including a Leaders’ Declaration and frameworks for climate finance and socially determined diseases.

    On July 8, PM Modi will pay a state visit to Brasilia for bilateral talks with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. India and Brazil will review trade ties, currently valued at $12.2 billion, and aim to push the target to $20 billion. Cooperation in oil and gas, renewable energy, critical minerals, defence, agriculture, traditional medicine, and digital public infrastructure are expected to feature prominently.

    Namibia: energy, minerals, digital pay on radar

    PM Modi will conclude his tour with a landmark visit to Namibia on July 9- the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 27 years.

    India has long supported Namibia’s independence struggle and has maintained strong economic ties. Trade stands at around $600 million, with Indian investments of nearly $800 million, mostly in minerals like zinc and diamonds.

    During the visit, PM Modi will hold bilateral talks with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and address Namibia’s Parliament. A key highlight will be a technology agreement enabling unified payment interoperability between the two countries — deepening fintech and digital cooperation.

    Namibia’s reserves of uranium, copper, cobalt and rare earths, and recent oil discoveries make it an attractive partner as India diversifies its energy and mineral supplies. The Cheetah translocation project from Namibia to India’s Kuno National Park remains a symbol of trust and collaboration.

    July 2, 2025
  • Indo-French joint military exercise ‘Shakti 2025’ concludes in France

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The eighth edition of the Indo-French Joint Military Exercise ‘Shakti’ concluded on Tuesday after two weeks of intensive training and cooperation between the Indian and French armed forces.

    Held from June 18 to July 1 in France, the exercise was hosted by the 13th French Foreign Legion Demi-Brigade (13 DBLE) and involved more than 500 personnel from various units of the French Army, Foreign Legion, Navy, and the French Air and Space Force.

    India was represented by a 90-member contingent, including a Battalion from the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles and troops from other arms and services. The exercise featured approximately 50 armoured and tactical vehicles, along with fighter jets from both sides.

    The exercise was conducted in two phases with the first one, held from June 18 to 21 in Aveyron’s Monclar district, focused on joint training in weapon handling, combat drills, and command coordination.

    The second phase, from June 22 to 26 in Herault, saw the deployment of the Monclar Combined Arms Tactical Group (GTIA) in an open-field semi-urban combat exercise that tested troops during both day and night operations.

    This year’s drill emphasised tactical interoperability, use of modern military technology, and refining combat strategies. French legionnaires had previously participated in Shakti 2024 in India, and both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepen military collaboration and share best practices.

    “Exercise Shakti was a vital opportunity for Indian and French military personnel to boost joint operational preparedness for facing the toughest combat situations in a sub-conventional environment under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, with training being conducted in a realistic semi-urban terrain, while strengthening ties with a strategic partner”, said a press statement from the French Embassy in New Delhi.

    “Serving as an effective platform for exchanging best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPS), Exercise SHAKTI will pave the way for deeper cooperation and mutual respect between the French and the Indian armed forces as well as significantly reinforcing the Indo-French defence partnership”, it added.

    The Indo-French Shakti exercise serves as a key platform for enhancing tactical, technical, and procedural synergy between the two nations. Alongside other bilateral defence exercises such as Garuda (Air Forces) and Varuna (Navies), Shakti reflects the evolving and robust strategic partnership between India and France.

    These regular joint exercises are seen as a testament to the nations shared commitment to global peace, security, and stability.

    (IANS)

    July 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: OLAF supports coordinated crackdown on cross-border counterfeit cigarette network in Italy and Romania

    Source: European Anti-Fraud Offfice

    Press release no 18/2025
    PDF version

    The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) played an important coordination role in a large-scale joint operation that dismantled a cross-border criminal network involved in the illicit production and smuggling of counterfeit cigarettes, with estimated evaded duties totalling approximately €9.8 million.

    The network, coordinated by Romanian, Moldovan, and Italian nationals, operated illegal production facilities in both Romania and Italy, with significant quantities of counterfeit tobacco products destined for distribution across the European Union.

    The operation, carried out on 3 June 2025, was the result of extensive intelligence sharing between OLAF, Romanian authorities—including the Economic Crime Investigation Directorate of the General Police Inspectorate (I.G.P.R.), Caraș-Severin County Police (I.P.J. Caraș-Severin), and the Directorate for Investigating Organised Crime and Terrorism (D.I.I.C.O.T.)—and the Italian Guardia di Finanza and Bologna Economic Police Unit.

    In Romania, coordinated searches in Timiș and Arad counties led to the seizure of approximately 25 million cigarettes stored in 2,500 boxes. Four individuals were arrested in Timiș County while handling smuggled goods. Two other suspects were detained by D.I.I.C.O.T. on 4 June.These actions were supported by the Romanian Customs Authority.

    Simultaneously, in Italy, a clandestine cigarette factory was discovered in an industrial area in the Emilia-Romagna region. The site was equipped with high-end machinery for replicating branded packaging. Investigators seized 14 tonnes of counterfeit cigarettes, more than 10 tonnes of unprocessed tobacco, and a large quantity of packaging materials.

    The scale of the illicit operation underscores the financial threat posed to the EU’s budget and legitimate trade. OLAF’s role was instrumental in ensuring swift cross-border cooperation, highlighting its mandate to protect the EU’s financial interests and combat organised fraud. 

    OLAF mission, mandate and competences:
    OLAF’s mission is to detect, investigate and stop fraud with EU funds.    

    OLAF fulfils its mission by:
    •    carrying out independent investigations into fraud and corruption involving EU funds, so as to ensure that all EU taxpayers’ money reaches projects that can create jobs and growth in Europe;
    •    contributing to strengthening citizens’ trust in the EU Institutions by investigating serious misconduct by EU staff and members of the EU Institutions;
    •    developing a sound EU anti-fraud policy.

    In its independent investigative function, OLAF can investigate matters relating to fraud, corruption and other offences affecting the EU financial interests concerning:
    •    all EU expenditure: the main spending categories are Structural Funds, agricultural policy and rural development funds, direct expenditure and external aid;
    •    some areas of EU revenue, mainly customs duties;
    •    suspicions of serious misconduct by EU staff and members of the EU institutions.

    Once OLAF has completed its investigation, it is for the competent EU and national authorities to examine and decide on the follow-up of OLAF’s recommendations. All persons concerned are presumed to be innocent until proven guilty in a competent national or EU court of law.

    For further details:

    Pierluigi CATERINO
    Spokesperson
    European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF)
    Phone: +32(0)2 29-52335  
    Email: olaf-media ec [dot] europa [dot] eu (olaf-media[at]ec[dot]europa[dot]eu)
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    Bluesky: euantifraud.bsky.social

    If you’re a journalist and you wish to receive our press releases in your inbox, please leave us your contact data.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO Secretary General Highlights Industry Partnership in Toulouse Visit

    Source: NATO

    NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte visited Toulouse, France, today (1 July 2025), engaging with Airbus leaders to strengthen ties with the defence industry. Speaking at the Airbus Top Executive Forum, Mr Rutte emphasized the shared goal of ensuring security and prosperity across all NATO nations. “We share the same objective: to ensure the prosperity and security of our economies and societies – across Europe and North America,” he said, stressing the critical need for NATO and industry to work together in a rapidly changing security landscape.

    The Secretary General, welcomed by Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury, addressed the urgent need for enhanced defence capabilities amid growing global threats. “There is no strong defence without a strong defence industry,” he stated, praising Airbus for contributions like the A400M aircraft and the MRTT [in full]. One week after the agreement on a 5% GDP defence spending target reached by Allies at NATO’s Summit in The Hague, he urged the industry to innovate and scale up production to meet NATO’s ambitious capability targets and keep our one billion people safe. 

    Following his address, Secretary General Rutte held a bilateral meeting with CEO Mr Faury and his team, and visited the A321 Final Assembly Line, interacting with Airbus employees. The visit underscores NATO’s commitment to fostering transatlantic industrial cooperation to deliver critical capabilities for the years to come.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO Secretary General Highlights Industry Partnership in Toulouse Visit

    Source: NATO

    NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte visited Toulouse, France, today (1 July 2025), engaging with Airbus leaders to strengthen ties with the defence industry. Speaking at the Airbus Top Executive Forum, Mr Rutte emphasized the shared goal of ensuring security and prosperity across all NATO nations. “We share the same objective: to ensure the prosperity and security of our economies and societies – across Europe and North America,” he said, stressing the critical need for NATO and industry to work together in a rapidly changing security landscape.

    The Secretary General, welcomed by Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury, addressed the urgent need for enhanced defence capabilities amid growing global threats. “There is no strong defence without a strong defence industry,” he stated, praising Airbus for contributions like the A400M aircraft and the MRTT [in full]. One week after the agreement on a 5% GDP defence spending target reached by Allies at NATO’s Summit in The Hague, he urged the industry to innovate and scale up production to meet NATO’s ambitious capability targets and keep our one billion people safe. 

    Following his address, Secretary General Rutte held a bilateral meeting with CEO Mr Faury and his team, and visited the A321 Final Assembly Line, interacting with Airbus employees. The visit underscores NATO’s commitment to fostering transatlantic industrial cooperation to deliver critical capabilities for the years to come.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Fourth-generation family funeral director recognised at business awards

    Source: City of Winchester


    Winchester City Council has awarded the Millennium Egg to Iain Steel, company director at local funeral director Richard Steel and Partners, at the 2025 Winchester Business Excellence Awards. 

    The Egg recognises individuals and organisations who have made an outstanding contribution to the economy of the district. It was presented to Iain by Winchester City Council Chief Executive Laura Taylor at the award ceremony on Thursday 20 June in Winchester Cathedral. 

    Richard Steel and Partners has been serving Winchester, Bishop’s Waltham, Alresford and Meon Valley for over 160 years, and is one of the region’s longest established family businesses: it is still under family ownership after four generations. The company directly employs over 30 staff and has also remained committed to sourcing services and supplies locally, doing their bit towards helping businesses within their community thrive. 

    Iain first joined the business as a teenager nearly 40 years ago, working alongside his father Richard. Since taking the reins as company director, Iain has led and developed the business, including the use of Chesil House as a prestigious riverside venue for funeral services and family gatherings. The company opened an Alresford office opened in 2021 to better serve families in the Arle and Candover valleys. 

    Iain is an avid supporter of the local community with direct involvement in a number of Winchester charities. As trustee of Winchester Hospice, he took on the challenge of trekking across the Sahara in November 2024, raising money for this local charity – and he also donated to the regeneration of St Maurice’s Covert. 

    This year, he has been instrumental in establishing the inaugural Legacy Action Week in Winchester and is already working on 2026, helping Winchester charities benefit from local bequests in wills.  

    Iain Steel, Company Director at Richard Steel and Partners, said: “Our family business has been serving Winchester and the wider Hampshire community for four generations since 1860.  

    “We are proud to be one of the longest established private businesses in the city to remain in the same family ownership, and recognition of our work within the local community means everything to everyone associated with our company, both current and former staff. Each generation has dedicated themselves to helping the city, both professionally and through charitable and community involvement”. 

    Laura Taylor, Chief Executive of Winchester City Council, said: “It is an honour to present our lifetime achievement award to Iain Steel of Richard Steel and partners, a fourth-generation family business that has been a mainstay of the Winchester district economy for over 160 years, serving our residents across the district, from Bishop’s Waltham to Alresford and between. 

    “Not only committed to providing compassionate and exceptional care in the business, using local suppliers where possible, Iain is well known for his commitment to the local community, with active involvement in a number of Winchester charities including St John’s Ambulance, Trinity Winchester and Winchester Hospice, as well as being Chair of Winchester Theatre Trust. 

    “Iain and his team are a valued addition to our district’s business community and the way in which they serve our residents – with compassion, professionalism and dedication to the community – make them a truly worthy recipient of this year’s award.” 

    The Millennium Egg, a crafted ornament, was originally donated to the council by Jeremy France of Jeremy France Jewellers. 

    The annual Winchester Business Excellence Awards are organised by the Hampshire Chronicle in association with Winchester Business Improvement District (BID) and Hampshire Chamber of Commerce. 

    Winchester City Council also sponsored the Sustainable Business Award which was presented on the night to Stem and Green Flower Farm by the Leader of the council, Councillor Martin Tod.  

    Last Updated: Tuesday 1 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    July 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Ambiq’s Leading SoC for Edge AI Now on Edge Impulse

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ambiq®, a technology leader in ultra-low-power semiconductor solutions for edge AI, today announced that its Apollo510 System-on-Chip (SoC) is now supported on the Edge Impulse™ development platform, enabling developers to build and deploy highly efficient, scalable AI applications for edge devices across speech recognition, computer vision, healthcare monitoring, and industrial automation.

    The Apollo510 represents a significant leap forward in edge AI capabilities, delivering up to 10 times higher performance and 3 times lower energy consumption compared to its predecessor, the Apollo4 Plus, in typical AI inference workloads. Built on Ambiq’s proprietary Subthreshold Power Optimization Technology (SPOT®) platform and powered by an Arm® Cortex® -M55 CPU with Helium™ technology, Apollo510 is ideal for demanding edge AI applications in speech, vision, healthcare, and industrial sectors.

    “The Apollo510 is an extraordinary platform for edge AI, as its improvements in energy efficiency and performance enable use cases that weren’t possible before,” says Carlos Morales, VP of AI at Ambiq. “The integration of Apollo510 with Edge Impulse removes key hurdles for both enterprise and startup AI developers, enabling faster, more efficient deployment of edge AI applications.”

    “The combination of Edge Impulse with Ambiq’s Apollo510, built on its ultra-efficient SPOT platform, gives developers a powerful edge AI solution,” said Jan Jongboom, Senior Director, Technology, Qualcomm Technologies Netherlands B.V. and co-founder of Edge Impulse Inc. “Together, we enable faster development of scalable AI applications.”

    The Apollo510 has earned recognition across the industry, including winning the Embedded World’s Best Hardware award in 2024 and being named the 2025 IoT Semiconductor Solution of the Year by IoT Breakthrough.

    Developers can get started today with access to Edge Impulse development tools for the Apollo510.

    About Ambiq

    Our mission is to enable intelligence (artificial intelligence (AI) and beyond) everywhere by delivering the lowest power semiconductor solutions. We enable our customers to deliver artificial intelligence compute at the edge where power consumption challenges are the most profound. Our technology innovations, built on the patented and proprietary subthreshold power optimized technology (SPOT), fundamentally deliver a multi-fold improvement in power consumption over traditional semiconductor designs. We’ve powered over 270 million devices today. For more information, visit www.ambiq.com.

    Contact
    Charlene Wan 
    VP of Corporate Marketing and Investor Relations
    cwan@ambiq.com 
    +1.512.879.2850

    Edge Impulse is a trademark or registered trademark of EdgeImpulse, Inc.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d5daad4d-2539-470b-b407-2fbe6c03bc92

    The MIL Network –

    July 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Ambiq’s Leading SoC for Edge AI Now on Edge Impulse

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ambiq®, a technology leader in ultra-low-power semiconductor solutions for edge AI, today announced that its Apollo510 System-on-Chip (SoC) is now supported on the Edge Impulse™ development platform, enabling developers to build and deploy highly efficient, scalable AI applications for edge devices across speech recognition, computer vision, healthcare monitoring, and industrial automation.

    The Apollo510 represents a significant leap forward in edge AI capabilities, delivering up to 10 times higher performance and 3 times lower energy consumption compared to its predecessor, the Apollo4 Plus, in typical AI inference workloads. Built on Ambiq’s proprietary Subthreshold Power Optimization Technology (SPOT®) platform and powered by an Arm® Cortex® -M55 CPU with Helium™ technology, Apollo510 is ideal for demanding edge AI applications in speech, vision, healthcare, and industrial sectors.

    “The Apollo510 is an extraordinary platform for edge AI, as its improvements in energy efficiency and performance enable use cases that weren’t possible before,” says Carlos Morales, VP of AI at Ambiq. “The integration of Apollo510 with Edge Impulse removes key hurdles for both enterprise and startup AI developers, enabling faster, more efficient deployment of edge AI applications.”

    “The combination of Edge Impulse with Ambiq’s Apollo510, built on its ultra-efficient SPOT platform, gives developers a powerful edge AI solution,” said Jan Jongboom, Senior Director, Technology, Qualcomm Technologies Netherlands B.V. and co-founder of Edge Impulse Inc. “Together, we enable faster development of scalable AI applications.”

    The Apollo510 has earned recognition across the industry, including winning the Embedded World’s Best Hardware award in 2024 and being named the 2025 IoT Semiconductor Solution of the Year by IoT Breakthrough.

    Developers can get started today with access to Edge Impulse development tools for the Apollo510.

    About Ambiq

    Our mission is to enable intelligence (artificial intelligence (AI) and beyond) everywhere by delivering the lowest power semiconductor solutions. We enable our customers to deliver artificial intelligence compute at the edge where power consumption challenges are the most profound. Our technology innovations, built on the patented and proprietary subthreshold power optimized technology (SPOT), fundamentally deliver a multi-fold improvement in power consumption over traditional semiconductor designs. We’ve powered over 270 million devices today. For more information, visit www.ambiq.com.

    Contact
    Charlene Wan 
    VP of Corporate Marketing and Investor Relations
    cwan@ambiq.com 
    +1.512.879.2850

    Edge Impulse is a trademark or registered trademark of EdgeImpulse, Inc.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d5daad4d-2539-470b-b407-2fbe6c03bc92

    The MIL Network –

    July 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: FWF by AROBS named UiPath Fast Track Partner for Agentic Automation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FWF, part of the AROBS Group (BVB: AROBS) and specialised in intelligent process automation, has been recognised by UiPath (NYSE: PATH), a global leader in agentic automation, as an Agentic Automation Fast Track Partner. This distinction recognises FWF for AROBS’s commitment to being at the forefront of innovation in enterprise automation, building on Robotic Process Automation and leveraging the capabilities of Agentic AI. It also confirms the AROBS Group’s strategic focus on investing in technologies that fundamentally transform how organisations operate.

    “We are honored and proud that FWF by AROBS has been named a UiPath Agentic Automation Fast Track Partner — a recognition that underscores both our advanced technical expertise and the strategic evolution of AROBS Group’s capabilities in intelligent automation. FWF by AROBS is playing a key role in expanding our group’s portfolio of next-generation enterprise solutions — from finance and healthcare to logistics and compliance — by delivering scalable automation with real business impact. As we step into a new era of agentic systems, this recognition from UiPath is also a signal to our clients and shareholders: AROBS is building one of the strongest automation and AI expertise in the region, with the capacity to lead transformations across industries,” stated Voicu Oprean, Founder and CEO of AROBS.

    The Agentic Automation Fast Track program, launched by UiPath in early 2025, includes a select group of global partners who actively contribute to the development and testing of UiPath’s latest solutions – as AI Agent Builder, and UiPath Maestro, within a collaborative framework.

    “This partnership marks an important step in our evolution and supports our goal of delivering automation solutions that drive real organisational change. This way, digital transformation initiatives translate more rapidly into concrete and sustainable results, with a direct impact on operational efficiency and decision-making speed,” stated Marius Bene, CEO of FWF by AROBS.

    While traditional RPA automates repetitive tasks, the UiPath Agentic Automation Platform introduces AI agents that understand context, analyse unstructured data, and make autonomous decisions with minimal human input. FWF by AROBS is proud to be recognised alongside global players such as Accenture, Deloitte, and IBM, and brings a unique perspective to its UK and European customer base that is rooted in and customised with precision to address specific regional market needs and business challenges.

    About AROBS: AROBS is the largest publicly listed technology company in Romania, with offices in 10 countries. It provides software services and solutions in areas such as embedded systems – Automotive, Aerospace, Maritime, and Medical, as well as Travel Technology, IoT, Clinical Trials, Fintech, Enterprise Solutions, Cybersecurity, and Intelligent Automation for international customers in UK, Europe, North America and Asia. Learn more at www.arobs.com.

    About FWF by AROBS: The company specializes in intelligent automation solutions, with a strong portfolio of projects in banking, telecom, professional services, and public administration across the UK, Germany, and Eastern Europe. Learn more at www.fwfcompany.com.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available here: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/790a8627-6a3d-4047-ac03-10c362d18b28

    The MIL Network –

    July 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: SC Capital Holding in Advanced Talks for Strategic Hospitality Acquisition in Cyprus

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ZUG, Switzerland, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Switzerland-based SC Capital Holding AG confirmed today that it is in late-stage discussions to acquire a landmark luxury hotel on the southern coast of Cyprus, marking the firm’s entry into the island nation as part of its growing Mediterranean portfolio.

    “Cyprus offers the confluence of architectural heritage, year-round airlift, and upscale leisure demand that fits perfectly with our value-creation model,” said Simo Chaabani, Chief Executive Officer of SC Capital Holding. “We are targeting properties where targeted investment and operational enhancements can create long-term value for guests and investors alike.”

    Chaabani and a delegation of senior executives completed a series of on-island inspections last week, visiting select assets in Limassol and Paphos. The itinerary focuses on hotels with strong architectural bones, unobstructed beachfront frontage, and expansion potential for low-rise branded residences.

    Building on a Proven Mediterranean Playbook
    The Cypriot pursuit follows SC Capital Holding’s recently announced pipeline in Albania, where the firm is evaluating more than 500 keys across Sarandë and Vlorë. Coupled with active projects in Central Europe, the Cyprus initiative underscores a disciplined regional thesis: acquire under-tapped coastal or city-center assets, inject best-in-class sustainability features, and drive superior RevPAR growth through data-driven revenue management.

    “Our partners understand that hospitality transformations are rarely cosmetic,” Simo Chaabani noted. “We go deep, recasting energy systems, digitizing the guest journey, and hard-wiring ESG metrics into every line item of the business plan. SC Capital Holding’s decades of cumulative hotel experience span corporate banking, hotel asset management, and construction engineering.” Recent projects exceeded energy-efficiency targets while lifting operating margins into the high teens, a performance Simo Chaabani calls “a rehearsal for what we intend to accomplish in Cyprus.”

    This flight was 100% offset with carbon compensation.

    Market Tailwinds Favour Cyprus
    Tourism arrivals to Cyprus surpassed 4.4 million in 2024, approaching pre-pandemic peaks, while average daily rates for five-star hotels climbed 9 percent year-on-year, according to national tourism data. Yet many legacy properties still operate below their potential, lacking the sustainability credentials and brand affiliations required by today’s global traveler.

    “Cyprus sits at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa, but much of its luxury inventory has stood still,” Simo Chaabani said. “That disconnect between destination appeal and asset performance positions us to create a genuine flagship.”

    Sustainability and Smart-Hotel Technologies at the Core
    Every SC Capital Holding acquisition is evaluated against a proprietary “green conversion roadmap,” which targets:

    • LEED Gold or BREEAM Excellent certification within three years
    • 40 percent renewable-energy adoption via rooftop solar arrays and battery storage
    • 30 percent water-consumption reductions through grey-water recycling and low-flow fixtures
    • 75 percent waste-diversion rates supported by on-site composting and recycling partnerships

    Layered atop these environmental benchmarks is the firm’s Smart-Stay™ technology stack, AI-powered energy management, contactless guest journeys, and predictive maintenance tools that collectively trim utility spending while elevating the guest experience.

    “Efficiency and luxury are not mutually exclusive,” Simo Chaabani asserted. “Our guests will enjoy Ionian Sea views in rooms powered by renewable energy and enhanced with smart technology, that is the future of premium hospitality.”

    “We believe in working closely with local partners and stakeholders,” Simo Chaabani emphasized. “Success depends on aligning with municipal leaders, community stakeholders, and world-class operators who share our commitment to responsible growth.”

    For acquisition proposals or partnership inquiries, contact SC Capital Holding executive reception , to the attention of Mrs Allyson Roscoe, director of deal sourcing : contact@sccapitalholding.ch

    Learn more at: https://sccapitalholding.ch/

    About SC Capital Holding AG
    Headquartered in Zug, Switzerland, SC Capital Holding AG is a privately held investment group specializing in the acquisition, development, and management of hospitality assets across Europe. The firm combines disciplined capital allocation, sustainability leadership, and a technology-first mindset to deliver superior risk-adjusted returns.

    Media Contact
    Company Name: SC Capital Holding
    Contact Person: Allyson Roscoe
    Email: contact@sccapitalholding.ch
    Website: www.sccapitalholding.ch

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by the SC Capital Holding. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at :

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fe3e461c-1239-4ca6-9b38-d07e5747f66d

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c107d9ae-4a08-4fa2-b4b4-a7b2206570b0

    The MIL Network –

    July 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: SC Capital Holding in Advanced Talks for Strategic Hospitality Acquisition in Cyprus

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ZUG, Switzerland, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Switzerland-based SC Capital Holding AG confirmed today that it is in late-stage discussions to acquire a landmark luxury hotel on the southern coast of Cyprus, marking the firm’s entry into the island nation as part of its growing Mediterranean portfolio.

    “Cyprus offers the confluence of architectural heritage, year-round airlift, and upscale leisure demand that fits perfectly with our value-creation model,” said Simo Chaabani, Chief Executive Officer of SC Capital Holding. “We are targeting properties where targeted investment and operational enhancements can create long-term value for guests and investors alike.”

    Chaabani and a delegation of senior executives completed a series of on-island inspections last week, visiting select assets in Limassol and Paphos. The itinerary focuses on hotels with strong architectural bones, unobstructed beachfront frontage, and expansion potential for low-rise branded residences.

    Building on a Proven Mediterranean Playbook
    The Cypriot pursuit follows SC Capital Holding’s recently announced pipeline in Albania, where the firm is evaluating more than 500 keys across Sarandë and Vlorë. Coupled with active projects in Central Europe, the Cyprus initiative underscores a disciplined regional thesis: acquire under-tapped coastal or city-center assets, inject best-in-class sustainability features, and drive superior RevPAR growth through data-driven revenue management.

    “Our partners understand that hospitality transformations are rarely cosmetic,” Simo Chaabani noted. “We go deep, recasting energy systems, digitizing the guest journey, and hard-wiring ESG metrics into every line item of the business plan. SC Capital Holding’s decades of cumulative hotel experience span corporate banking, hotel asset management, and construction engineering.” Recent projects exceeded energy-efficiency targets while lifting operating margins into the high teens, a performance Simo Chaabani calls “a rehearsal for what we intend to accomplish in Cyprus.”

    This flight was 100% offset with carbon compensation.

    Market Tailwinds Favour Cyprus
    Tourism arrivals to Cyprus surpassed 4.4 million in 2024, approaching pre-pandemic peaks, while average daily rates for five-star hotels climbed 9 percent year-on-year, according to national tourism data. Yet many legacy properties still operate below their potential, lacking the sustainability credentials and brand affiliations required by today’s global traveler.

    “Cyprus sits at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa, but much of its luxury inventory has stood still,” Simo Chaabani said. “That disconnect between destination appeal and asset performance positions us to create a genuine flagship.”

    Sustainability and Smart-Hotel Technologies at the Core
    Every SC Capital Holding acquisition is evaluated against a proprietary “green conversion roadmap,” which targets:

    • LEED Gold or BREEAM Excellent certification within three years
    • 40 percent renewable-energy adoption via rooftop solar arrays and battery storage
    • 30 percent water-consumption reductions through grey-water recycling and low-flow fixtures
    • 75 percent waste-diversion rates supported by on-site composting and recycling partnerships

    Layered atop these environmental benchmarks is the firm’s Smart-Stay™ technology stack, AI-powered energy management, contactless guest journeys, and predictive maintenance tools that collectively trim utility spending while elevating the guest experience.

    “Efficiency and luxury are not mutually exclusive,” Simo Chaabani asserted. “Our guests will enjoy Ionian Sea views in rooms powered by renewable energy and enhanced with smart technology, that is the future of premium hospitality.”

    “We believe in working closely with local partners and stakeholders,” Simo Chaabani emphasized. “Success depends on aligning with municipal leaders, community stakeholders, and world-class operators who share our commitment to responsible growth.”

    For acquisition proposals or partnership inquiries, contact SC Capital Holding executive reception , to the attention of Mrs Allyson Roscoe, director of deal sourcing : contact@sccapitalholding.ch

    Learn more at: https://sccapitalholding.ch/

    About SC Capital Holding AG
    Headquartered in Zug, Switzerland, SC Capital Holding AG is a privately held investment group specializing in the acquisition, development, and management of hospitality assets across Europe. The firm combines disciplined capital allocation, sustainability leadership, and a technology-first mindset to deliver superior risk-adjusted returns.

    Media Contact
    Company Name: SC Capital Holding
    Contact Person: Allyson Roscoe
    Email: contact@sccapitalholding.ch
    Website: www.sccapitalholding.ch

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by the SC Capital Holding. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at :

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fe3e461c-1239-4ca6-9b38-d07e5747f66d

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c107d9ae-4a08-4fa2-b4b4-a7b2206570b0

    The MIL Network –

    July 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: SC Capital Holding in Advanced Talks for Strategic Hospitality Acquisition in Cyprus

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ZUG, Switzerland, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Switzerland-based SC Capital Holding AG confirmed today that it is in late-stage discussions to acquire a landmark luxury hotel on the southern coast of Cyprus, marking the firm’s entry into the island nation as part of its growing Mediterranean portfolio.

    “Cyprus offers the confluence of architectural heritage, year-round airlift, and upscale leisure demand that fits perfectly with our value-creation model,” said Simo Chaabani, Chief Executive Officer of SC Capital Holding. “We are targeting properties where targeted investment and operational enhancements can create long-term value for guests and investors alike.”

    Chaabani and a delegation of senior executives completed a series of on-island inspections last week, visiting select assets in Limassol and Paphos. The itinerary focuses on hotels with strong architectural bones, unobstructed beachfront frontage, and expansion potential for low-rise branded residences.

    Building on a Proven Mediterranean Playbook
    The Cypriot pursuit follows SC Capital Holding’s recently announced pipeline in Albania, where the firm is evaluating more than 500 keys across Sarandë and Vlorë. Coupled with active projects in Central Europe, the Cyprus initiative underscores a disciplined regional thesis: acquire under-tapped coastal or city-center assets, inject best-in-class sustainability features, and drive superior RevPAR growth through data-driven revenue management.

    “Our partners understand that hospitality transformations are rarely cosmetic,” Simo Chaabani noted. “We go deep, recasting energy systems, digitizing the guest journey, and hard-wiring ESG metrics into every line item of the business plan. SC Capital Holding’s decades of cumulative hotel experience span corporate banking, hotel asset management, and construction engineering.” Recent projects exceeded energy-efficiency targets while lifting operating margins into the high teens, a performance Simo Chaabani calls “a rehearsal for what we intend to accomplish in Cyprus.”

    This flight was 100% offset with carbon compensation.

    Market Tailwinds Favour Cyprus
    Tourism arrivals to Cyprus surpassed 4.4 million in 2024, approaching pre-pandemic peaks, while average daily rates for five-star hotels climbed 9 percent year-on-year, according to national tourism data. Yet many legacy properties still operate below their potential, lacking the sustainability credentials and brand affiliations required by today’s global traveler.

    “Cyprus sits at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa, but much of its luxury inventory has stood still,” Simo Chaabani said. “That disconnect between destination appeal and asset performance positions us to create a genuine flagship.”

    Sustainability and Smart-Hotel Technologies at the Core
    Every SC Capital Holding acquisition is evaluated against a proprietary “green conversion roadmap,” which targets:

    • LEED Gold or BREEAM Excellent certification within three years
    • 40 percent renewable-energy adoption via rooftop solar arrays and battery storage
    • 30 percent water-consumption reductions through grey-water recycling and low-flow fixtures
    • 75 percent waste-diversion rates supported by on-site composting and recycling partnerships

    Layered atop these environmental benchmarks is the firm’s Smart-Stay™ technology stack, AI-powered energy management, contactless guest journeys, and predictive maintenance tools that collectively trim utility spending while elevating the guest experience.

    “Efficiency and luxury are not mutually exclusive,” Simo Chaabani asserted. “Our guests will enjoy Ionian Sea views in rooms powered by renewable energy and enhanced with smart technology, that is the future of premium hospitality.”

    “We believe in working closely with local partners and stakeholders,” Simo Chaabani emphasized. “Success depends on aligning with municipal leaders, community stakeholders, and world-class operators who share our commitment to responsible growth.”

    For acquisition proposals or partnership inquiries, contact SC Capital Holding executive reception , to the attention of Mrs Allyson Roscoe, director of deal sourcing : contact@sccapitalholding.ch

    Learn more at: https://sccapitalholding.ch/

    About SC Capital Holding AG
    Headquartered in Zug, Switzerland, SC Capital Holding AG is a privately held investment group specializing in the acquisition, development, and management of hospitality assets across Europe. The firm combines disciplined capital allocation, sustainability leadership, and a technology-first mindset to deliver superior risk-adjusted returns.

    Media Contact
    Company Name: SC Capital Holding
    Contact Person: Allyson Roscoe
    Email: contact@sccapitalholding.ch
    Website: www.sccapitalholding.ch

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by the SC Capital Holding. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at :

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fe3e461c-1239-4ca6-9b38-d07e5747f66d

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c107d9ae-4a08-4fa2-b4b4-a7b2206570b0

    The MIL Network –

    July 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Greenpeace welcomes new global initiative to advance tax reform on the super-rich

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Sevilla, Spain – Spain,  Brazil and South Africa today launched a coalition to advance work on taxing the super-rich at the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development in Sevilla. The coalition reaffirmed political commitments to pursue effective taxation of the super-rich. They also signalled growing support for international tax negotiations at the UN that are gaining momentum.

    In response, Fred Njehu, Global Political Lead for Greenpeace’s Fair Share campaign, said[1]: “Financing is urgently needed for climate action and public services, not for polluting space travel and luxury weddings. This new coalition of governments working to tax the super-rich adds to the growing global momentum to make the world’s wealthiest pay their fair share. People are fed up with billionaires’ greed eroding the environment and communities we depend on. It’s time for world leaders to listen and act.”

    Last week Greenpeace Italy together with UK Action group Everyone hates Elon unfolded a banner reading ‘If you can rent Venice for your wedding, you can pay more tax’ on Piazza San Marco, ahead of Jeff Bezos’s reportedly multi-million dollar wedding in Venice.

    In a survey commissioned by Greenpeace International and Oxfam International across 13 countries, 86% of respondents want governments to close tax loopholes that benefit the super-rich and international corporations, and to use the increased revenue for public services.[2] 

    “Ultimately, we urge world leaders to support the on-going UN Tax Convention process as a global multilateral platform that will shape and determine the future of taxation, one rooted in equity and justice,” added Njehu.

    ENDS

    Notes:

    [1] Fred Njehu is with Greenpeace Africa, based in Nairobi, Kenya.

    [2] The research was conducted by first-party data company Dynata in May-June, 2025, in Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Kenya, Italy, India, Mexico, the Philippines, South Africa, Spain, the UK and the US, with approximately 1200 respondents in each country and a theoretical margin of error of approximately 2.83%. Together, these countries represent close to half the world’s population. Greenpeace / Oxfam – PPP survey results. 

    Contacts:

    Tal Harris, Global Media Lead – Stop Drilling Start Paying campaign, Greenpeace International. +41-782530550, [email protected]  

    Lee Kuen, Global Comms Lead – Fair Share campaign, Greenpeace International. +601112527489, [email protected]

    Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0)20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), [email protected]

    MIL OSI NGO –

    July 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Automotive Tire Pressure Monitoring System Market Set to Hit USD 8.94 Billion in 2024, Accelerating Ahead with a Robust 12.91% CAGR Through 2032 | AnalystView Market Insights

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    San Francisco, USA, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Market Dynamics

    The Automotive Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) market was valued at US$ 8,940.29 million in 2024 and is projected to grow at a robust CAGR of 12.91% from 2025 to 2032, reflecting increasing global emphasis on vehicle safety and performance. This impressive growth trajectory is fueled by a combination of regulatory mandates and consumer demand for enhanced driving safety. As underinflated tires contribute to poor fuel efficiency, tire wear, and accident risk, TPMS is becoming a crucial component in modern vehicles.

    Regulatory mandates across developed economies such as the United States, European Union, Japan, and China have made TPMS installation mandatory in all new vehicles. These regulations are significantly propelling market demand, particularly for Direct TPMS (DTPMS), which offers higher accuracy compared to Indirect TPMS (ITPMS). Furthermore, with the rise in global vehicle production and sales, especially in emerging markets where automotive demand is rapidly increasing, the adoption of Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) as a standard safety feature is becoming more widespread. In 2022, global motor vehicle production reached 85.4 million units, marking a 5.7% increase from 2021, according to the European Automobile Manufacturers Association. Many countries have introduced regulatory mandates requiring TPMS installation to enhance road safety by providing drivers with real-time tire pressure information, thereby reducing the risk of accidents caused by underinflated tires.

    Unlock exclusive insights with our detailed sample report (Please enter your Corporate Email ID to get priority access@ https://www.analystviewmarketinsights.com/request_sample/AV4027

    Key Attributes:

    Report Attributes Details
    No. of Pages 269
    Forecast Period 2025 – 2032
    Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2025 $8,940.29 Million
    Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) 12.91%
    Regions Covered North America (U.S., and Canada)
    Europe (Germany, UK, France, Italy, Spain, The Netherlands, Sweden, Russia, Poland, Rest of Europe)
    Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, Rest of APAC)
    Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Colombia, Rest of LATAM)
    The Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Israel, Turkey, Algeria, Egypt, Rest of MEA)

    Key Drivers

    1. Stringent Safety Regulations:
      Government regulations worldwide mandating the use of TPMS in new vehicles are a major growth driver. For instance, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) requires TPMS in all passenger vehicles sold post-2007. Similarly, the European Union and countries like China, South Korea, and Japan have enforced comparable safety mandates, accelerating market adoption.
    2. Increasing Focus on Fuel Efficiency:
      Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, which leads to better fuel efficiency. As consumers and fleet operators look to cut fuel costs, TPMS has become a vital tool. In commercial fleets, particularly, optimizing tire pressure can result in substantial savings on fuel and tire maintenance.
    3. Growing Vehicle Production:
      The post-pandemic recovery of the global automotive industry and the continued expansion of electric vehicle (EV) production contribute significantly to TPMS demand. EVs, often equipped with the latest safety tech, are more likely to include TPMS as a standard feature.
    4. Technological Advancements:
      The market is witnessing innovations such as battery-less TPMS, wireless sensors, and systems integrated with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). These enhancements not only improve system reliability but also reduce maintenance requirements, making TPMS more appealing to OEMs and consumers alike.

    Restraints

    1. High Initial Costs:
      TPMS, especially direct systems with individual sensors on each tire, can increase the overall vehicle cost. This price sensitivity is a significant deterrent in cost-conscious markets, particularly in entry-level and budget vehicle segments.
    2. Maintenance and Repair Challenges:
      TPMS components are prone to damage during tire replacement or servicing. Additionally, battery-powered sensors have a limited lifespan, typically around 5-10 years, which may require costly replacements.
    3. Lack of Consumer Awareness in Developing Markets:
      In regions such as parts of Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America, awareness regarding the benefits of TPMS is relatively low. This hampers adoption, despite the system’s proven advantages in safety and efficiency.

    Opportunities

    1. Aftermarket Growth:
      The aftermarket TPMS segment presents vast potential, especially as older vehicles are retrofitted to meet safety standards or improve performance. Rising e-commerce penetration is also making it easier for consumers to purchase and install aftermarket solutions.
    2. Electric and Autonomous Vehicles:
      The rising trend of connected vehicles, EVs, and autonomous cars paves the way for more sophisticated tire pressure and health monitoring systems. Manufacturers are developing smart TPMS integrated with telematics and real-time data analytics, providing broader vehicle management capabilities.

    Market segmentation :

    GLOBAL AUTOMOTIVE TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM MARKET, BY PRODUCT TYPE- MARKET ANALYSIS, 2019 – 2032

    • Direct
    • Indirect

    GLOBAL AUTOMOTIVE TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM MARKET, BY VEHICLE TYPE- MARKET ANALYSIS, 2019 – 2032

    • Passenger Vehicles
    • Commercial Vehicles

    GLOBAL AUTOMOTIVE TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM MARKET, BY COMPONENT- MARKET ANALYSIS, 2019 – 2032

    • Sensors
    • Transmitters
    • Receivers
    • Display Units
    • Control Units

    GLOBAL AUTOMOTIVE TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM MARKET, BY SALES CHANNEL- MARKET ANALYSIS, 2019 – 2032

    • OEM
    • Aftermarket

    Regional Insights

    North America

    North America remains a leading market for TPMS, primarily driven by regulatory enforcement and high consumer awareness. The U.S. is the dominant player due to early legislation mandating TPMS and widespread OEM adoption. The region is also a hotspot for aftermarket sales, supported by a well-established automotive service ecosystem.

    Europe

    Europe follows closely, with countries like Germany, France, and the U.K. leading TPMS penetration. The region’s strong focus on vehicle safety and environmental concerns (such as CO2 emission reduction) has fostered widespread TPMS adoption. Moreover, the European Union’s General Safety Regulation (GSR) continues to enforce TPMS requirements across all new vehicle segments.

    Asia-Pacific

    The Asia-Pacific region, led by China, Japan, South Korea, and India, is emerging as the fastest-growing market. China’s TPMS mandate for new vehicles starting 2019 has significantly boosted local demand. Additionally, rising disposable incomes, rapid urbanization, and growing automotive manufacturing hubs in India and Southeast Asia offer enormous growth potential. However, aftermarket awareness and infrastructure still lag behind developed markets.

    Latin America & Middle East Africa

    These regions are in the nascent stages of TPMS adoption. While vehicle ownership is rising, the lack of strict safety norms and consumer education limits the market. Nonetheless, growing automotive imports and gradual economic development are creating long-term opportunities.

     Looking For a Detailed Full Report? Please review it here @ https://www.analystviewmarketinsights.com/reports/report-highlight-automotive-tire-pressure-monitoring-system-market

    Reasons to Invest in the TPMS Market

    1. Global Regulatory Support:
      With safety becoming non-negotiable, TPMS has become a compliance requirement in many parts of the world. Investors can bank on this long-term regulatory support driving consistent demand.
    2. EV Integration and Smart Mobility:
      As electric and smart vehicles become mainstream, integrated TPMS solutions are evolving. These systems go beyond just pressure monitoring—providing tire temperature, wear analysis, and real-time alerts through mobile apps or vehicle dashboards. The synergy with ADAS and IoT provides avenues for value-added services and recurring revenue.
    3. High Growth Potential in Aftermarket:
      Millions of vehicles worldwide still operate without TPMS. This opens a vast aftermarket potential, especially in regions where regulations have recently come into effect or are under proposal. Startups and component suppliers focusing on plug-and-play solutions can capitalize on this underserved segment.
    4. Rising OEM Collaborations and Strategic Partnerships:
      Tier-1 suppliers are collaborating with vehicle manufacturers to embed next-gen TPMS as part of their safety and telematics packages. This trend ensures steady B2B revenue streams and fosters innovation in customized solutions.
    5. Advancements in Sensor Technology:
      The evolution of MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) and sensor miniaturization is reducing costs while improving performance. This technological edge is lowering entry barriers for new players and making TPMS feasible even for low-cost vehicles.
    6. Fleet Management Optimization:
      For commercial fleets, TPMS offers tangible benefits in maintenance planning, fuel efficiency, and downtime reduction. As logistics and transport companies digitize operations, TPMS becomes an integral component of their fleet health systems—driving up volume demand.

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    The MIL Network –

    July 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Africa: African Development Bank Approves $474.6 Million Loan to support South Africa’s Infrastructure Governance and Green Growth

    The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) has approved a $474.6 million loan for South Africa’s Infrastructure Governance and Green Growth Programme (IGGGP). This financing marks a significant milestone in the country’s transition toward a sustainable, low-carbon economy.

    This IGGGP is the second phase of the Bank’s strategic support for South Africa’s Just Energy Transition. It builds on the success of the $300 million Energy Governance and Climate Resilience Programme, approved in 2023, which delivered key reforms that bolstered financial stability and increased renewable energy capacity.

    Structured around three interconnected pillars: enhancing energy security through power sector restructuring, supporting a low-carbon and just transition, and improving transport efficiency – the IGGGP is designed to accelerate South Africa’s green transformation and promote inclusive, resilient growth. South Africa’s Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana,  described the Bank’s support as valuable. 

    “Our country faces the significant challenge of energy shortages, leading to loadshedding, as well as significant transport bottlenecks, which have been detrimental to growing our economy and achieving our developmental aspirations. With your partnership, our government has committed itself to stay the course and implement these critical reforms in the energy and transport sectors, while endeavoring to achieve our international commitments on climate change and our JET objectives,” he said.

    The IGGGP also places strong emphasis on green industrialization, skills development, and job creation, including support for electric vehicle manufacturing and green hydrogen production. Recent estimates from the IMF show that South Africa’s Just Energy Transition could boost the country’s GDP growth by 0.2 to 0.4 percentage points annually between 2025 and 2030.

    “This approval represents more than financing — it’s a blueprint for Africa’s energy future,” said Kennedy Mbekeani, African Development Bank Group’s Director General for Southern Africa. “South Africa’s success in building a just, green, and inclusive energy system demonstrates that sustainable development and economic growth can go hand in hand.”

    This financing includes targeted grant components to promote energy efficiency initiatives and advance rail sector reforms. Key priorities include accelerating vertical separation and establishing an investment framework to revitalize South Africa’s freight and logistics systems. These efforts are expected to strengthen competitiveness of the transport sector and contribute to regional integration and economic growth across the Southern African Development Community.

    As an advanced economy in Africa and a regional power hub, South Africa’s success in its energy transition could catalyze similar transformations across the continent. Its experience integrating renewable energy, modernizing its grid, and implementing just transition policies will provide valuable lessons for other African nations pursuing sustainable development goals.

    The initiative incorporates comprehensive environmental and social safeguards, with a particular focus on gender and youth empowerment. Women will constitute 70% of the beneficiaries of the expanded Social Employment Fund, and dedicated youth skills programmes will equip the next generation for emerging opportunities in the green economy.

    The success of the IGGGP will contribute to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including affordable and clean energy (SDG 7), decent work and economic growth (SDG 8), industry, innovation, and infrastructure (SDG 9), and climate action (SDG 13).

    The African Development Bank’s support forms part of a historic $2.78 billion international financing package that includes $1.5 billion from the World Bank, €500 million from Germany’s KfW, up to $200 million from Japan’s JICA, and an expected $150 million from the OPEC Fund. This coordinated financing underscores the global significance of South Africa’s energy transition, particularly under its G20 presidency. The programme aligns with South Africa’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions under the Paris Agreement, which targets reducing greenhouse gas emissions to 398–510 million tons of CO₂ equivalent by 2025 and 350–420 million tons by 2030.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

    Additional Image: https://apo-opa.co/3G4EecH

    Media contact:
    Emeka Anuforo,
    Communication and External Relations Department,
    media@afdb.org

    About the African Development Bank Group:
    The African Development Bank Group is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org

    MIL OSI Africa –

    July 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Allister tables motion in the Commons expressing concern at Equality Commission becoming a cheerleader for trans activism

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    TUV North Antrim MP Jim Allister said:

    “I have today tabled an Early Day Motion in the House of Commons to express my deep dismay at the conduct of the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland in the wake of the Supreme Court’s clear and authoritative ruling on the meaning of the terms “woman” and “man” in law.

    “The Supreme Court could not have been clearer: biological sex—not self-declared gender identity—is what determines whether someone is legally considered a man or a woman for the purposes of the Equality Act. This is not a matter of personal opinion or political fashion; it is settled law. And yet, astonishingly, we now see the Equality Commission exploring ways to circumvent that ruling—an action which, in my view, is legally indefensible and ideologically driven.

    “The Commission is meant to be a neutral enforcer of equality law, not a cheerleader for trans activism. Its role is to uphold the law as it stands, not to reinterpret it in line with fringe ideology. When a statutory body—funded by the public purse—starts behaving as if it is above the UK’s highest court, then democracy and legal certainty are both placed in jeopardy.

    “There must be no ambiguity: the Supreme Court ruling applies fully in Northern Ireland. Any suggestion otherwise is an affront to the rule of law and to the constitutional order of the United Kingdom. Devolution does not give license to ignore the UK’s apex court or to rewrite legislation by stealth.

    “This is why I have tabled this motion—to send a clear message to the Equality Commission and to any other public body tempted to place ideology above legality: the law is not optional. Biological reality cannot be wished away. And the rights of women—based on sex, not gender identity—must be defended without compromise.”

    Note to editors

    Mr Allister’s Early Day Motion reads:

    NI Equality Commission and Supreme Court ruling

    Jim Allister (North Antrim)

    That this House expresses dismay at the attempts by the Equality Commission in Northern Ireland to find ways to circumvent the very clear ruling by the Supreme Court on biological sex being the determinant in regard to the terms ‘woman’ and ‘man’; regrets that the Commission has allowed itself to become a vehicle for pro-trans ideology; and repudiates the suggestion that the Supreme Court ruling might not be followed in Northern Ireland.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    July 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Nokia’s new energy innovation venture Enscryb secures partner and first two customers

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release

    Nokia’s new energy innovation venture Enscryb secures partner and first two customers

    • Enscryb is partnering with NODES, a Norwegian technology company, and will be offering services to Nanuq, a charging infrastructure company, and Smartecon, a utility scale renewable energy construction / EPC company.
    • Enscryb is a platform that uses digital twins and stream processing technology to enable real-time distributed energy orchestration in an era of increasing market volatility, demand and renewable production.
    • Enscryb can simulate distributed energy systems of any size and complexity from grid, to meter, to connected assets.

    1 July 2025
    Espoo, Finland – Nokia today announced its latest venture, Enscryb, an energy innovation platform, is partnering with NODES, an energy trading company. In addition, Enscryb has also secured and onboarded two customers: Nanuq, a charging infrastructure company, and Smartecon, a renewable energy provider.

    Enscryb is an innovative digital toolbox that enables real-time distributed energy flexibility orchestration in an era of increasing market volatility, demand and renewable production by simulating electricity systems of any size and complexity. The Enscryb toolset also provides energy flexibility forecasting for battery energy storage systems and solar hybrid assets. By analyzing data from both markets and clients’ own infrastructures, Enscryb enables more accurate and bankable financial modeling for renewable energy projects.

    Based on technology from Nokia Bell Labs, Enscryb is the latest Nokia venture to engage external partners and customers. These collaborations stem from Nokia’s internal venture incubator dedicated to innovation and new commercialization paths for Nokia Bell Labs technology.

    By contributing to reducing energy expenses, increasing grid resiliency and transitioning toward Net Zero, Enscryb also emphasizes Nokia’s commitment to sustainable businesses.

    NODES facilitates the trading of flexibility resources and Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) between System Operators and Flexibility Service Providers, aggregators and large Industrial and Commercial assets. This activity supports the sustainability sector and contributes to the development of emerging energy flexibility and congestion markets.

    Nanuq helps its industrial customers transition to electrified fleets. They plan investment and operation of fleets with local generation resources and charge points to ensure maximum efficiency by lowering energy operation expenses.

    Smartecon is a pan-Baltic EPC company specializing in utility-scale renewable energy projects. It helps developers and asset owners bring solar, battery, and hybrid power plants from concept to grid connection, with a strong focus on grid compliance, technical design, and hands-on project execution.

    Chris D. Jones, Vice President for Strategic Partnerships at Nokia, said: “Enscryb is the latest proof-point that our venture incubator is finding new ways to commercialize Nokia Bell Labs technology. Nokia is very proud of Enscryb and its first partner and customers. We are looking forward to the opportunity to contribute to a sustainable energy future by helping the energy industry transition through digitalization.”

    Svein Jørgen Sønning, Head of Technology at NODES, said: “This collaboration strengthens the foundation for a more resilient and dynamic flexibility market. Enscryb’s ability to optimize DERs investment decisions and operations by using real-time orchestration and advanced value stack strategies complement NODES’ market design. This synergy helps stakeholders unlock greater value from their energy assets.”

    Hannes Aus, Chief Development Officer and co-founder of Smartecon, said: ” At Smartecon, we don’t just build — we help clients make sense of complexity. Enscryb complements our approach by turning market and infrastructure data into actionable insights. With this partnership, we can deliver not only bankable energy systems but also smarter planning and better performance from day one.”

    Resources and additional information
    Web Page: Nokia Bell Labs
    Web Page: Nokia Ventures

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

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs, which is celebrating 100 years of innovation.

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

    About Enscryb
    Enscryb is an innovative new venture incubated within Nokia to provide simplicity in an increasingly complex energy system. It is a powerful digital engine that enables the creation of digital twin energy systems and deploys new steering mechanisms to maximize the value of energy flexibility for industrial and commercial consumers.
    Website: Enscryb
    LinkedIn: Enscryb

    About NODES
    Nodes is a service-minded company that works with our partners to develop a liquid marketplace for trading flexibility. We provide an innovative market design, which is helping unlock the value of flexibility and accelerating the energy transition. We continually strive to develop new products and services, which can be used to further the development of flexibility services.
    Website: NODES

    About Nanuq
    Nanuq develops holistic charging infrastructure concepts that combine technology, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability. From data-driven planning to smart grid solutions and the integration of renewable energies – we are rethinking electrification and making it future-proof.
    Website: Nanuq

    About Smartecon
    Smartecon is a leading pan-Baltic utility scale renewable energy and construction company that has extensive experience in designing and constructing over 1,000 solar battery and hybrid power plants across five countries. It is a key player in the renewable energy sector and its partnership with Nokia further strengthens its commitment to innovation and sustainable energy solutions.
    Website: Smartecon

    Media inquiries
    Nokia Press Office
    Email: Press.Services@nokia.com

    Follow us on social media
    LinkedIn X Instagram Facebook YouTube

    The MIL Network –

    July 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Nokia’s new energy innovation venture Enscryb secures partner and first two customers

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release

    Nokia’s new energy innovation venture Enscryb secures partner and first two customers

    • Enscryb is partnering with NODES, a Norwegian technology company, and will be offering services to Nanuq, a charging infrastructure company, and Smartecon, a utility scale renewable energy construction / EPC company.
    • Enscryb is a platform that uses digital twins and stream processing technology to enable real-time distributed energy orchestration in an era of increasing market volatility, demand and renewable production.
    • Enscryb can simulate distributed energy systems of any size and complexity from grid, to meter, to connected assets.

    1 July 2025
    Espoo, Finland – Nokia today announced its latest venture, Enscryb, an energy innovation platform, is partnering with NODES, an energy trading company. In addition, Enscryb has also secured and onboarded two customers: Nanuq, a charging infrastructure company, and Smartecon, a renewable energy provider.

    Enscryb is an innovative digital toolbox that enables real-time distributed energy flexibility orchestration in an era of increasing market volatility, demand and renewable production by simulating electricity systems of any size and complexity. The Enscryb toolset also provides energy flexibility forecasting for battery energy storage systems and solar hybrid assets. By analyzing data from both markets and clients’ own infrastructures, Enscryb enables more accurate and bankable financial modeling for renewable energy projects.

    Based on technology from Nokia Bell Labs, Enscryb is the latest Nokia venture to engage external partners and customers. These collaborations stem from Nokia’s internal venture incubator dedicated to innovation and new commercialization paths for Nokia Bell Labs technology.

    By contributing to reducing energy expenses, increasing grid resiliency and transitioning toward Net Zero, Enscryb also emphasizes Nokia’s commitment to sustainable businesses.

    NODES facilitates the trading of flexibility resources and Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) between System Operators and Flexibility Service Providers, aggregators and large Industrial and Commercial assets. This activity supports the sustainability sector and contributes to the development of emerging energy flexibility and congestion markets.

    Nanuq helps its industrial customers transition to electrified fleets. They plan investment and operation of fleets with local generation resources and charge points to ensure maximum efficiency by lowering energy operation expenses.

    Smartecon is a pan-Baltic EPC company specializing in utility-scale renewable energy projects. It helps developers and asset owners bring solar, battery, and hybrid power plants from concept to grid connection, with a strong focus on grid compliance, technical design, and hands-on project execution.

    Chris D. Jones, Vice President for Strategic Partnerships at Nokia, said: “Enscryb is the latest proof-point that our venture incubator is finding new ways to commercialize Nokia Bell Labs technology. Nokia is very proud of Enscryb and its first partner and customers. We are looking forward to the opportunity to contribute to a sustainable energy future by helping the energy industry transition through digitalization.”

    Svein Jørgen Sønning, Head of Technology at NODES, said: “This collaboration strengthens the foundation for a more resilient and dynamic flexibility market. Enscryb’s ability to optimize DERs investment decisions and operations by using real-time orchestration and advanced value stack strategies complement NODES’ market design. This synergy helps stakeholders unlock greater value from their energy assets.”

    Hannes Aus, Chief Development Officer and co-founder of Smartecon, said: ” At Smartecon, we don’t just build — we help clients make sense of complexity. Enscryb complements our approach by turning market and infrastructure data into actionable insights. With this partnership, we can deliver not only bankable energy systems but also smarter planning and better performance from day one.”

    Resources and additional information
    Web Page: Nokia Bell Labs
    Web Page: Nokia Ventures

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

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs, which is celebrating 100 years of innovation.

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

    About Enscryb
    Enscryb is an innovative new venture incubated within Nokia to provide simplicity in an increasingly complex energy system. It is a powerful digital engine that enables the creation of digital twin energy systems and deploys new steering mechanisms to maximize the value of energy flexibility for industrial and commercial consumers.
    Website: Enscryb
    LinkedIn: Enscryb

    About NODES
    Nodes is a service-minded company that works with our partners to develop a liquid marketplace for trading flexibility. We provide an innovative market design, which is helping unlock the value of flexibility and accelerating the energy transition. We continually strive to develop new products and services, which can be used to further the development of flexibility services.
    Website: NODES

    About Nanuq
    Nanuq develops holistic charging infrastructure concepts that combine technology, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability. From data-driven planning to smart grid solutions and the integration of renewable energies – we are rethinking electrification and making it future-proof.
    Website: Nanuq

    About Smartecon
    Smartecon is a leading pan-Baltic utility scale renewable energy and construction company that has extensive experience in designing and constructing over 1,000 solar battery and hybrid power plants across five countries. It is a key player in the renewable energy sector and its partnership with Nokia further strengthens its commitment to innovation and sustainable energy solutions.
    Website: Smartecon

    Media inquiries
    Nokia Press Office
    Email: Press.Services@nokia.com

    Follow us on social media
    LinkedIn X Instagram Facebook YouTube

    The MIL Network –

    July 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Audiences

    Source: The Holy See

    Audiences, 01.07.2025

    This morning, the Holy Father Leo XIV received in audience:
    – Archbishop Odelir José Magri, M.C.C.J., of Chapecó, Brazil;
    – Archbishop Gil Antônio Moreira of Juiz de Fora, Brazil;
    – Archbishop Gilberto Alfredo Vizcarra Mori, S.J., of Trujillo, Peru;
    – Bishop Giovanni d’Ercole, F.D.P., emeritus of Ascoli Piceno, Italy;
    – His Eminence Cardinal Pedro Ricardo Barreto Jimeno, S.J., emeritus of Huancayo, Peru, president of the Ecclesial Conference of Amazonia (CEAMA);
    – His Eminence Cardinal Jaime Spengler, O.F.M., archbishop of Porto Alegre, Brazil, president of the Latin American Episcopal Conference (CELAM), with: His Eminence Cardinal Filipe Neri António Sebastião do Rosário Ferrão, archbishop of Goa and Damão, India, president of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC); His Eminence Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, O.F.M. Cap., archbishop of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, president of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM); Bishop Lizardo Estrada Herrara, O.S.A., titular of Ausuccura, auxiliary of Cuzco, Peru, secretary general of CELAM; Msgr. Josef Sayer:
    – His Eminence Cardinal Blase Joseph Cupich, archbishop of Chicago, United States of America;
    – Members of the Ordinary Synod of Bishops of the Syriac Patriarchal Church of Antioch.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Audiences

    Source: The Holy See

    Audiences, 01.07.2025

    This morning, the Holy Father Leo XIV received in audience:
    – Archbishop Odelir José Magri, M.C.C.J., of Chapecó, Brazil;
    – Archbishop Gil Antônio Moreira of Juiz de Fora, Brazil;
    – Archbishop Gilberto Alfredo Vizcarra Mori, S.J., of Trujillo, Peru;
    – Bishop Giovanni d’Ercole, F.D.P., emeritus of Ascoli Piceno, Italy;
    – His Eminence Cardinal Pedro Ricardo Barreto Jimeno, S.J., emeritus of Huancayo, Peru, president of the Ecclesial Conference of Amazonia (CEAMA);
    – His Eminence Cardinal Jaime Spengler, O.F.M., archbishop of Porto Alegre, Brazil, president of the Latin American Episcopal Conference (CELAM), with: His Eminence Cardinal Filipe Neri António Sebastião do Rosário Ferrão, archbishop of Goa and Damão, India, president of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC); His Eminence Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, O.F.M. Cap., archbishop of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, president of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM); Bishop Lizardo Estrada Herrara, O.S.A., titular of Ausuccura, auxiliary of Cuzco, Peru, secretary general of CELAM; Msgr. Josef Sayer:
    – His Eminence Cardinal Blase Joseph Cupich, archbishop of Chicago, United States of America;
    – Members of the Ordinary Synod of Bishops of the Syriac Patriarchal Church of Antioch.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement on behalf of the 14th Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Statement on behalf of the 14th Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board

    • English
    • Cymraeg

    The fourteenth Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board met on 26th June 2025.

    The Secretary of State for Wales, Rt Hon Jo Stevens MP, in her role as Chair of the Transition Board sought endorsement from the Board for the development of an £11.67 million Economic Growth and Investment Fund.  £6.67 million will be provided by UK Government and £5 million from Tata Steel UK. This joint funding is aimed to boost inward business investment in the region and to support longer-term growth by supporting businesses and helping to create new jobs. A period of engagement will take place to design the fund over the coming weeks, with the fund going live in the autumn.

    Today’s release of money marks the full allocation of the UK Government’s £80 million contribution from the Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board fund. This funding has been delivered in just under a year, clearly demonstrating this Government’s commitment to the community impacted by Tata Steel UK’s transition to greener steelmaking. We are already seeing the positive impact of this investment to those impacted. The Board will continue to monitor the progress of the funds and ensure the right support continues to be administered to the region.

    The Board also received updates on:

    • Tata Steel UK’s decarbonisation programme;
    • The Department of Business and Trade’s plans for a steel strategy;
    • Mental health and well-being;
    • The Transition Board funds that have already been announced.

    Those in attendance included: Rt Hon Jo Stevens MP, Secretary of State for Wales; Rebecca Evans MS, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy & Planning in the Welsh Government; Alex Norris MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary for MHCLG; Cllr Steven Hunt, Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council; Frances O’Brien, CEO of Neath Port Talbot Council; Rajesh Nair, CEO of Tata Steel UK; Chris Jaques, Chief HR Officer, Tata Steel UK; Stephen Kinnock, MP for Aberafan Maesteg; David Rees, MS for Aberavon; Tom Giffard, MS & Luke Fletcher MS for the region of South Wales West; Anne Jessopp CBE, Sarah Williams-Gardener & Katherine Bennett CBE, independent members of the Board; Alun Davies, National Officer for Steel & Metals, Community Union; Tom Hoyles, Politics, Press and Research Officer, GMB Wales & Jason Bartlett Regional Officer of Unite the Union Wales.

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    Published 1 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    July 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Air quality isn’t just bad in cities – here’s why and how we’re tracking pollution from upland fires

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Rebecca Brownlow, Senior Lecturer in Environmental Science, Sheffield Hallam University

    Peatland burns over the reservoir in Langsett, a village in South Yorkshire. Wendy Birks, CC BY-NC-ND

    Early one October afternoon in 2023, thick grey smoke drifted across Sheffield’s western skyline. As much of the city became blanketed, residents turned to social media to complain about “bonfire smoke”, while others were forced to leave the city due to breathing difficulties.

    However, this smoke did not originate within the city. It was drifting in from the Peak District, more than nine miles away, where controlled heather burning was taking place on the moorlands. For around six hours, levels of fine particulate matter (known as PM2.5), tiny airborne pollutants known to harm human health, exceeded 40 micrograms per cubic metre of air (µg/m³) and peaked at 70µg/m³, well above the guidelines recommended by the World Health Organization.

    This single incident points to the wider and largely invisible problem of the routine burning of the UK’s uplands. This can be a serious source of air pollution, but because most official air pollution monitoring concentrates on urban areas, the effects are overlooked. This is why we have started monitoring upland fires and the pollution they cause.

    Prescribed burning is a longstanding land management practice often used to control vegetation for grouse shooting or livestock grazing. It happens across a range of upland landscapes. Many of the areas being burned sit on deep peat, an organic-rich soil made from layers of slowly decomposed plant material formed over thousands of years in waterlogged conditions.

    Peatlands are incredibly important. They are one of the most carbon-rich ecosystems on the planet. In the UK, they cover around 12% of the land area and store an estimated 3.2 billion tonnes of carbon. This is equivalent to all the forests of Germany, France and the UK combined. Most of the UK’s peat is found in Scotland, but notable areas in England include the Peak District and North York Moors. However, their value goes well beyond carbon.

    Around 70% of Britain’s drinking water comes from upland areas that are largely peatland, and healthy peatlands help reduce flooding by slowing the flow of water from hills to towns and cities. They also provide vital habitats for birds, insects and rare plants, forming the UK’s largest area of semi-natural habitat.




    Read more:
    Wildfire smoke can harm human health, even when the fire is burning hundreds of miles away – a toxicologist explains why


    Despite their ecological importance, more than 80% of English peatlands are classified as degraded, often through historic air pollution, draining, overgrazing and, importantly, repeated burning.

    One hidden consequence of that burning is air pollution. These burns are often viewed as isolated rural events, but their effect on regional air quality can be substantial. On that day in Sheffield, pollution levels briefly rivalled those seen across the city during bonfire night, a well-known peak in urban air pollution.

    In response to that October event, our research team launched a new pilot monitoring network across part of the Peak District national park. This FireUp project combines air quality sensors, satellite data and community observations to detect and measure pollution from upland fires.

    Planned burning event in the Peak District captured via Copernicus Sentinel-2 data (2024), retrieved from Copernicus SciHub and processed by European Space Agency.
    CC BY

    By using a mix of technologies and local reporting, we have documented spikes in PM2.5 pollution that would have otherwise been missed. Our system offers a clearer picture of when and where fires occur, and how far their smoke spreads, opening the door for better planning and stronger protections for public health. But the problem is not just a lack of data, it is also a failure of regulation. England’s current upland burning regulations are limited on four fronts.

    Heather and grass burning regulations introduced in 2021 prohibit burning only on peat deeper than 40cm inside designated sites. That means 60% of upland peat is excluded from these protections.

    With more than 95% of PM2.5 monitors located in urban areas, smoke from moorland fires in remote rural locations is rarely registered on official networks.

    The resources for organisations responsible for enforcing regulations have shrunk over the last decade. Natural England, one of the government’s statutory bodies responsible for environmental protection, has experienced a 4% decrease in funding for 2024-25 compared to the previous year.

    Prosecutions for illegal burning are exceptionally rare, with satellite analyses pointing to a higher level of unlicensed activity than official records suggest.

    In short, narrow legal scope, limited monitoring coverage and under-resourced enforcement leave many prescribed burns undetected and unaccounted for, along with the health and environmental risks they carry.

    Our FireUp system improves fire detections and helps quantify the effects of air pollution from these burns. As the UK government reviews regulations as part of the 2025 heather and grass burning consultation for England, and as upland fire risk increases, this kind of evidence is essential, not just to track what is happening, but to help shape a healthier and better future for the UK’s uplands.

    Our next step is to develop a citizen science app that makes it easier for people to report peatland fire incidents and upland burning to help improve regulation and log the effects of changes in air quality.


    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.


    James is a member of the Welsh Government Clean Air Advisory Panel, and Promoting Awareness of Air Quality Delivery Group. James also sits on the Scottish Government’s Air Quality Advisory Group.

    Maria Val Martin receives funding from UKRI and is a member of the DEFRA Air Quality Expert Group.

    Rebecca Brownlow 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. Air quality isn’t just bad in cities – here’s why and how we’re tracking pollution from upland fires – https://theconversation.com/air-quality-isnt-just-bad-in-cities-heres-why-and-how-were-tracking-pollution-from-upland-fires-258034

    MIL OSI Analysis –

    July 1, 2025
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