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  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Michelin Guide scrutiny could boost Philly tourism, but will it stifle chefs’ freedom to experiment and innovate?

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jonathan Deutsch, Professor of Food and Hospitality Management, Drexel University

    Chef Phila Lorn prepares a bowl of noodle soup at Mawn restaurant in Philadelphia. AP Photo/Matt Rourke

    The Philadelphia restaurant scene is abuzz with the news that the famed Michelin Guide is coming to town.

    As a research chef and educator at Drexel University in Philadelphia, I am following the Michelin developments closely.

    Having eaten in Michelin restaurants in other cities, I am confident that Philly has at least a few star-worthy restaurants. Our innovative dining scene was named one of the top 10 in the U.S. by Food & Wine in 2025.

    Researchers have convincingly shown that Michelin ratings can boost tourism, so Philly gaining some starred restaurants could bring more revenue for the city.

    But as the lead author of the textbook “Culinary Improvisation,” which teaches creativity, I also worry the Michelin scrutiny could make chefs more focused on delivering a consistent experience than continuing along the innovative trajectory that attracts Michelin in the first place.

    Ingredients for culinary innovation

    In “Culinary Improvisation” we discuss three elements needed to foster innovation in the kitchen.

    The first is mastery of culinary technique, both classical and modern. Simply stated, this refers to good cooking.

    The second is access to a diverse range of ingredients and flavors. The more colors the artist has on their palette, the more directions the creation can take.

    And the third, which is key to my concerns, is a collaborative and supportive environment where chefs can take risks and make mistakes. Research shows a close link between risk-taking workplaces and innovation.

    According to the Michelin Guide, stars are awarded to outstanding restaurants based on: “quality of ingredients, mastery of cooking techniques and flavors, the personality of the chef as expressed in the cuisine, value for money, and consistency of the dining experience both across the menu and over time.”

    The criteria do not mention innovation.

    It’s possible the high-stakes lure of a Michelin star, which awards consistent excellence, could lead Philly’s most vibrant and creative chefs and restaurateurs to pull back on the risks that led to the city’s culinary excellence in the first place.

    Local food writers believe Vernick Fish is a top contender for a Michelin star.
    Photo courtesy of Vernick Fish

    The obvious contenders

    Philadelphia’s preeminent restaurant critic Craig LaBan and journalist and former restaurateur Kiki Aranita discussed local contenders for Michelin stars in a recent article in the Philadelphia Inquirer.

    The 19 restaurants LaBan and Aranita discuss as possible star contenders average just over a one-mile walk from the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

    Together they have received 78 James Beard nominations or awards, which are considered the “Oscars” of the food industry. That’s an average of over four per restaurant.

    And when I tried to book a table for two on a Wednesday and Saturday before 9 p.m., about half were already fully booked for dinner two weeks out, in July, which is the slow season for dining in Philadelphia.

    If LaBan’s and Aranita’s predictions are right, Michelin will be an added recognition for restaurants that are already successful and centrally located.

    Black Dragon Takeout fuses Black American cuisine with the aesthetics of classic Chinese American takeout.
    Jeff Fusco/The Conversation, CC BY-SA

    Off the beaten path

    When the Michelin Guide started in France at the turn of the 19th century, it encouraged diners to take the road less traveled to their next gastronomic experience.

    It has since evolved into recommendations for a road well traveled: safe, lauded and already hard-to-get-into restaurants. In Philly these could be restaurants such as Vetri Cucina, Zahav, Vernick Fish, Provenance, Royal Sushi and Izakaya, Ogawa and Friday Saturday Sunday, to name a few on LaBan and Aranita’s list.

    And yet Philadelphia has over 6,000 restaurants spread across 135 square miles of the city. Philadelphia is known as a city of neighborhoods, and these neighborhoods are rich with food diversity and innovation.

    Consider Jacob Trinh’s Vietnamese-tinged seafood tasting menu at Little Fish in Queen Village; Kurt Evans’ gumbo lo mein at Black Dragon Takeout in West Philly; the beef cheek confit with avocado mousse at Temir Satybaldiev’s Ginger in the Northeast; and the West African XO sauce at Honeysuckle, owned by Omar Tate and Cybille St.Aude-Tate, on North Broad Street.

    I hope the Michelin inspectors will venture far beyond the obvious candidates to experience more of what Philadelphia has to offer.

    The Michelin Guide announced it will include Philadelphia and Boston in its next Northeast Cities edition.
    Matthieu Delaty/Hans Lucas/AFP via Getty Images

    Raising the bar

    In the frenzy surrounding the Michelin scrutiny, chef friends have invited me to dine at their restaurants and share my feedback as they refine their menus in anticipation of visits from anonymous Michelin inspectors.

    Restaurateurs have been asking my colleagues and me for talent suggestions to replace well-liked and capable cooks, servers and managers whom owners perceive to be just not Michelin-star level.

    And managers are texting us names of suspected reviewers, triggered by some tell-tale signs – a solo diner with a weeknight tasting menu reservation, no dietary restrictions or special requests, and a conspicuously light internet presence.

    In all, I am excited about Philadelphians being excited about Michelin. Any opportunity to spotlight the city’s restaurant community and tighten its food and service quality raises the bar among local chefs and restaurateurs and makes the experience better for diners. And the prospect of business travelers and culinary tourists enjoying lunches and early-week dinners can help restaurants, their workers and the city earn more revenue.

    But in the din of the press events and hype, let’s not forget that Philadelphians don’t need an outside arbiter to tell us what we already know: Philly is a great place to eat and drink.

    _Read more of our stories about Philadelphia.

    Jonathan Deutsch 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. Michelin Guide scrutiny could boost Philly tourism, but will it stifle chefs’ freedom to experiment and innovate? – https://theconversation.com/michelin-guide-scrutiny-could-boost-philly-tourism-but-will-it-stifle-chefs-freedom-to-experiment-and-innovate-256752

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Scandinavia has its own dark history of assimilating Indigenous people, and churches played a role – but are apologizing

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Thomas A. DuBois, Professor of Scandinavian Studies, Folklore, and Religious Studies, University of Wisconsin-Madison

    A church in Kiruna, Sweden, designed by architect Gustaf Wickman to resemble a Sami hut. Apolline Guillerot-Malick/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

    In May 2025, Tapio Luoma, archbishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland, delivered an apology to the Sámi, the only recognized Indigenous people in the European Union.

    Speaking on behalf of the church to which more than 6 in 10 of the Finnish populace belong, including most Sámi, Luoma acknowledged its role in past activities that stigmatized Sámi language and culture.

    The church “has not respected the rights to self-determination of the Sámi people,” his address began. “Before God and all of you here assembled, we express our regret and ask forgiveness of the Sámi people.”

    Luoma’s words were the latest in a series of apologies through which the former state churches in Scandinavia have sought to reset their relations with the Indigenous population of Sápmi, the natural and cultural area of Sámi people. Today, the region is divided between Finland, Norway, Sweden and Russia.

    As a scholar of Sámi culture, and as a researcher of Nordic folklore and religion, I have studied the difficult, often painful, relations between Sámi and the various Nordic state churches.

    Church’s power

    For thousands of years, the Sámi population lived by hunting, fishing and reindeer husbandry along the northern edges of Scandinavia. The Sámi possessed their own languages and maintained distinctive spiritual traditions and healing practices, drawing on traditional ecological knowledge that they had accrued over countless generations. In times of crisis or uncertainty, for example, communities used ceremonial drums to communicate with the spirit world and divine the future.

    Conflicts emerged by the 13th century, however, as Christian realms expanded north. Christian clerics condemned Sámi spiritual traditions as “heathen devilry.”

    An 18th-century carving of a Sámi shaman with his drum.
    Beskrivelse over Finnmarkens Lapper, deres Tungemaal, Levemaade og forrige Afgudsdyrkelse/O. H. von Lode/Wikimedia Commons

    During the 16th-century Protestant Reformation, Scandinavian rulers shifted from Catholicism to Lutheranism. In addition to tending to the souls of their flocks, ministers were tasked with keeping track of the comings and goings of congregation members, collecting taxes, and administering justice for lesser crimes.

    They aimed to stamp out the spiritual practices that many Sámi continued to practice alongside Christianity. Church authorities arrested, fined and sometimes even executed practitioners, while confiscating sacred drums to be destroyed or sent to distant museums.

    The church’s ritual of confirmation, which marks the passage from adolescence into adulthood, also acquired legal status. Being confirmed required the ability to read and interpret the Bible and Martin Luther’s Catechism, a summary of the Lutheran Church’s beliefs. As the church became part of the state, people who had not received confirmation could not represent themselves in court, own land or even marry.

    Lake Pielpajarvi Wilderness Church, the oldest Sami church still in use, in Inari Municipality, Lapland, Finland.
    VW PICS/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

    And where Luther had called for religious instruction to occur in one’s native language, most Nordic clergy provided catechesis only in the majority language, considering Sámi language and traditions impediments to true conversion.

    Assimilation efforts

    During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the new “nation states” of Finland, Norway and Sweden emerged on the world stage. In each country, political leaders conflated what the ancient Greeks called the “demos” – members of a political nation – with an “ethnos,” a cultural group. In order to belong to the Finnish, Norwegian and Swedish political nations, political and cultural leaders of these new states asserted that it was necessary to belong to the majority linguistic and cultural community.

    Finland’s 1919 constitution made provision for Swedish, which is still used by about 5% of the population, as a national language alongside Finnish. However, the government accorded no such status to Sámi.

    Both state-run residential boarding schools and schools run by churches included Lutheranism as a subject and strove relentlessly to assimilate Sámi into the majority culture, language and worldview, teaching children to see their culture as backward and shameful. Some church and school authorities cooperated with pseudoscientific racial researchers measuring students’ heads and excavating Sámi graves.

    A ‘nomad school’ for Sami children in Jukkasjarvi, Sweden, 250 miles north of the Arctic Circle, in 1956.
    John Firth/BIPs/Getty Images

    As a result, many students ceased to identify as Sámi and adopted the majority language as their primary mode of communication. Today, only about half the people who identify as Sámi have any facility in Sámi languages, which are considered endangered.

    After World War II, church attendance in all the Nordic countries began to plummet. Where 98% of the Finnish population belonged to the state church in 1900, by 2024 that percentage had dropped to 62%. The bulk of defections consisted of people who registered as having no religious affiliation. Membership in the national church shifted from compulsory to voluntary.

    Yet as anthropologist David Koester shows, some elements of Lutheran tradition remain extremely popular in all the Nordic countries, particularly Confirmation. The ritual remains a key rite of passage for most Sámi today, yet many of them wrestle with whether they should remain faithful to a church that had worked to suppress their community’s language and culture.

    Reconciliation today

    Searching for a path forward, contemporary Sámi artist and Lutheran catechist Lars Levi Sunna began to produce church art that incorporated and celebrated pre-Christian Sámi symbols – some of the very traditions that had been demonized by clergy of the past.

    For example, in a church in the northern Swedish town of Jukkasjärvi, an image of the sun as it appeared on Sámi ceremonial drums now faces the altar, providing a vivid reminder of the spiritual history and past worldview of the church’s Sámi congregation. The symbol now encloses an image of a communion wafer carved of reindeer antler.

    In 2005, Sunna created a traveling art exhibit that portrayed Sámi Christianization as an act of cultural violence. The exhibit, designed for temporary installation in church sanctuaries, aimed to provoke discussion and encourage open dialogue about the past.

    Similarly, in 2008, Norwegian Sámi filmmaker Nils Gaup produced “Kautokeino Rebellion,” a film recounting clergy’s role in suppressing religious activism among followers of a Swedish Sámi minister, Lars Levi Laestadius. The so-called uprising in 1852 led to the imprisonment of several dozen Sámi and the execution of two men – whose skulls were deposited in a research institute and did not receive proper burial until 1997.

    Descended from one of the punished families, Gaup reminded his audience of past injustice shrouded in shame and silence.

    Since church attendance is infrequent in Nordic countries, art and film serve as important vehicles for raising awareness of the church’s past. In November 2021, the archbishop of Sweden, Antje Jackelén, issued a formal apology to the Sámi. Sámi artist and activist Anders Sunna was invited to temporarily redecorate the sanctuary of the Cathedral of Uppsala for the occasion. His decorations included reminders of past Sámi sacrificial traditions that took place both outdoors and around hearth fires. In place of a grand altar, Sunna erected a simple table, surrounded by an octagon of benches where the bishop and members of the Sámi community would sit face to face with a sense of equality and respect.

    As Sámi theologian Tore Johnsen notes, formal apologies are necessary first steps in a process of reconciliation. But only once they are followed by concrete acts of “restoration” can real reconciliation occur.

    When the Finnish archbishop apologized in May 2025, Sámi in attendance at the Turku Cathedral were appreciative, but they were eager to see what actions might follow, according to reporters at the ceremony. The same wait-and-see attitude characterizes Sámi responses to state-run Truth and Reconciliation processes, which occurred in Norway in 2023 and are currently ongoing in Sweden and Finland.

    The process of healing a society injured by colonialism is difficult and slow, requiring extensive discussion – much of it uncomfortable. With Luoma’s words of apology and the arrival of Sámi to listen and witness, an important step in that process occurred.

    Thomas A. DuBois 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. Scandinavia has its own dark history of assimilating Indigenous people, and churches played a role – but are apologizing – https://theconversation.com/scandinavia-has-its-own-dark-history-of-assimilating-indigenous-people-and-churches-played-a-role-but-are-apologizing-255827

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Jews were barred from Spain’s New World colonies − but that didn’t stop Jewish and converso writers from describing the Americas

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Flora Cassen, Senior Faculty, Hartman Institute and Associate Professor of History and Jewish Studies, Washington University in St. Louis

    An auto-da-fé − a public punishment for heretics − in San Bartolome Otzolotepec, in present-day Mexico. Museo Nacional de Arte via Wikimedia Commons

    Every few years, a story about Columbus resurfaces: Was the Genoese navigator who claimed the Americas for Spain secretly Jewish, from a Spanish family fleeing the Inquisition?

    This tale became widespread around the late 19th century, when large numbers of Jews came from Russia and Eastern Europe to the United States. For these immigrants, 1492 held double significance: the year of Jews’ expulsion from Spain, as well as Columbus’ voyage of discovery. At a time when many Americans viewed the explorer as a hero, the idea that he might have been one of their own offered Jewish immigrants a link to the beginnings of their new country and the American story of freedom from Old World tyranny.

    The problem with the Columbus-was-a-Jew theory isn’t just that it’s based on flimsy evidence. It also distracts from the far more complex and true story of Spanish Jews in the Americas.

    In the 15th century, the kingdom’s Jews faced a wrenching choice: convert to Christianity or leave the land their families had called home for generations. Portugal’s Jews faced similar persecution. Whether they sought a new place to settle or stayed and hoped to be accepted as members of Christian society, both groups were searching for belonging.

    Jewish religious items at the Museo Metropolitano in Monterrey, Mexico.
    Thelmadatter/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA

    We are scholars of Jewish history and have been working on the first English translations of two texts from the 16th century. “The Book of New India,” by Joseph Ha-Kohen, and the spiritual writings of Luis de Carvajal are two of the earliest Jewish texts about the Americas.

    The story of the New World is not complete without the voices of Jewish communities that engaged with it from the very beginning.

    Double consciousness

    The first Jews in the Americas were, in fact, not Jews but “conversos,” meaning “converts,” and their descendants.

    After a millennium of relatively peaceful and prosperous life on Iberian soil, the Jews of Spain were attacked by a wave of mob violence in the summer of 1391. Afterward, thousands of Jews were forcibly converted.

    Synagogue of El Tránsito, a 14th-century Jewish congregation in Toledo, Spain.
    Selbymay/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA

    While conversos were officially members of the Catholic Church, neighbors looked at them with suspicion. Some of these converts were “crypto-Jews,” who secretly held on to their ancestral faith. Spanish authorities formed the Inquisition to root out anyone the church considered heretics, especially people who had converted from Judaism and Islam.

    In 1492, after conquering the last Muslim stronghold in Spain, monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella gave the remaining Spanish Jews the choice of conversion or exile. Eventually, people who converted from Islam would be expelled as well.

    Among Jews who converted, some sought new lives within the rapidly expanding Spanish empire. As the historian Jonathan Israel wrote, Jews and conversos were both “agents and victims of empire.” Their familiarity with Iberian language and culture, combined with the dispersion of their community, positioned them to participate in the new global economy: trade in sugar, textiles, spices – and the trade in human lives, Atlantic slavery.

    Yet conversos were also far more vulnerable than their compatriots: They could lose it all, even end up burned alive at the stake, because of their beliefs. This double consciousness – being part of the culture, yet apart from it – is what makes conversos vital to understanding the complexities of colonial Latin America.

    By the 17th century, once the Dutch and the English conquered parts of the Americas, Jews would be able to live there. Often, these were families whose ancestors had been expelled from the Iberian peninsula. In the first Spanish and Portuguese colonies, however, Jews were not allowed to openly practice their faith.

    Secret spirituality

    One of these conversos was Luis de Carvajal. His uncle, the similarly named Luis de Carvajal y de la Cueva, was a merchant, slave trader and conquistador. As a reward for his exploits he was named governor of the New Kingdom of León, in the northeast of modern-day Mexico. In 1579 he brought over a large group of relatives to help him settle and administer the rugged territory, which was made up of swamps, deserts and silver mines.

    A statue in Monterrey, Mexico, of Luis Carvajal y de la Cueva.
    Ricardo DelaG/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA

    The uncle was a devout Catholic who attempted to shed his converso past, integrating himself into the landed gentry of Spain’s New World empire. Luis the younger, however, his potential heir, was a passionate crypto-Jew who spent his free time composing prayers to the God of Israel and secretly following the commandments of the Torah.

    When Luis and his family were arrested by the Inquisition in 1595, his book of spiritual writings was discovered and used as evidence of his secret Jewish life. Luis, his mother and sister were burned at the stake, but the small, leather-bound diary survived.

    A 19th-century depiction of the execution of Luis de Carvajal the Younger’s sister.
    ‘El Libro Rojo, 1520-1867’ via Wikimedia Commons

    Luis’ religious thought drew on a wide range of early modern Spanish culture. He used a Latin Bible and drew inspiration from the inwardly focused spirituality of Catholic thinkers such as Fray Luis de Granada, a Dominican theologian. He met with the hermit and mystic Gregorio López. He discovered passages from Maimonides and other rabbis quoted in the works of Catholic theologians whom he read at the famed monastery of Santiago de Tlatelolco, in Mexico City, where he worked as an assistant to the rector.

    His spiritual writings are deeply American: The wide deserts and furious hurricanes of Mexico were the setting of his spiritual awakenings, and his encounters with the people and cultures of the emerging Atlantic world shaped his religious vision. This little book is a unique example of the brilliant, creative culture that developed in the crossing from Old World to New, born out of the exchange and conflict between diverse cultures, languages and faiths.

    A glimpse of Luis de Carvajal’s spiritual writings, photographed in New York City.
    Ronnie Perelis

    More than translation

    Spanish Jews who refused to convert in 1492, meanwhile, had been forced into exile and barred from the kingdom’s colonies.

    The journey of Joseph Ha-Kohen’s family illustrates the hardships. After the expulsion, his parents moved to Avignon, the papal city in southern France, where Joseph was born in 1496. From there, they made their way to Genoa, the Italian merchant city, hoping to establish themselves. But it was not to be. The family was repeatedly expelled, permitted to return, and then expelled again.

    Despite these upheavals, Ha-Kohen became a doctor and a merchant, a leader in the Jewish community – earning the respect of the Christian community, too. Toward the end of his life, he settled in a small mountain town beyond the city’s borders and turned to writing.

    After a book on wars between Christianity and Islam, and another one on the history of the Jews, he began a new project. Ha-Kohen adapted “Historia General de las Indias,” an account of the Americas’ colonization by Spanish historian Francisco López de Gómara, reshaping the text for a Jewish audience.

    A 1733 edition of ‘Divrei Ha-Yamim,’ Ha-Kohen’s book about wars between Christian and Muslim cultures.
    John Carter Brown Library via Wikimedia Commons

    Ha-Kohen’s work was the first Hebrew-language book about the Americas. The text was hundreds of pages long – and he copied his entire manuscript nine times by hand. He had never seen the Americas, but his own life of repeated uprooting may have led him to wonder whether Jews would one day seek refuge there.

    Ha-Kohen wanted his readers to have access to the text’s geographical, botanical and anthropological information, but not to Spain’s triumphalist narrative. So he created an adapted, hybrid translation. The differences between versions reveal the complexities of being a European Jew in the age of exploration.

    Ha-Kohen omitted references to the Americas as Spanish territory and criticized the conquistadors for their brutality toward Indigenous peoples. At times, he compared Native Americans with the ancient Israelites of the Bible, feeling a kinship with them as fellow victims of oppression. Yet at other moments he expressed estrangement and even revulsion at Indigenous customs and described their religious practices as “darkness.”

    Translating these men’s writing is not just a matter of bringing a text from one language into another. It is also a deep reflection on the complex position of Jews and conversos in those years. Their unique vantage point offers a window into the intertwined histories of Europe, the Americas and the in-betweenness that marked the Jewish experience in the early modern world.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Jews were barred from Spain’s New World colonies − but that didn’t stop Jewish and converso writers from describing the Americas – https://theconversation.com/jews-were-barred-from-spains-new-world-colonies-but-that-didnt-stop-jewish-and-converso-writers-from-describing-the-americas-258278

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Jews were barred from Spain’s New World colonies − but that didn’t stop Jewish and converso writers from describing the Americas

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Flora Cassen, Senior Faculty, Hartman Institute and Associate Professor of History and Jewish Studies, Washington University in St. Louis

    An auto-da-fé − a public punishment for heretics − in San Bartolome Otzolotepec, in present-day Mexico. Museo Nacional de Arte via Wikimedia Commons

    Every few years, a story about Columbus resurfaces: Was the Genoese navigator who claimed the Americas for Spain secretly Jewish, from a Spanish family fleeing the Inquisition?

    This tale became widespread around the late 19th century, when large numbers of Jews came from Russia and Eastern Europe to the United States. For these immigrants, 1492 held double significance: the year of Jews’ expulsion from Spain, as well as Columbus’ voyage of discovery. At a time when many Americans viewed the explorer as a hero, the idea that he might have been one of their own offered Jewish immigrants a link to the beginnings of their new country and the American story of freedom from Old World tyranny.

    The problem with the Columbus-was-a-Jew theory isn’t just that it’s based on flimsy evidence. It also distracts from the far more complex and true story of Spanish Jews in the Americas.

    In the 15th century, the kingdom’s Jews faced a wrenching choice: convert to Christianity or leave the land their families had called home for generations. Portugal’s Jews faced similar persecution. Whether they sought a new place to settle or stayed and hoped to be accepted as members of Christian society, both groups were searching for belonging.

    Jewish religious items at the Museo Metropolitano in Monterrey, Mexico.
    Thelmadatter/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA

    We are scholars of Jewish history and have been working on the first English translations of two texts from the 16th century. “The Book of New India,” by Joseph Ha-Kohen, and the spiritual writings of Luis de Carvajal are two of the earliest Jewish texts about the Americas.

    The story of the New World is not complete without the voices of Jewish communities that engaged with it from the very beginning.

    Double consciousness

    The first Jews in the Americas were, in fact, not Jews but “conversos,” meaning “converts,” and their descendants.

    After a millennium of relatively peaceful and prosperous life on Iberian soil, the Jews of Spain were attacked by a wave of mob violence in the summer of 1391. Afterward, thousands of Jews were forcibly converted.

    Synagogue of El Tránsito, a 14th-century Jewish congregation in Toledo, Spain.
    Selbymay/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA

    While conversos were officially members of the Catholic Church, neighbors looked at them with suspicion. Some of these converts were “crypto-Jews,” who secretly held on to their ancestral faith. Spanish authorities formed the Inquisition to root out anyone the church considered heretics, especially people who had converted from Judaism and Islam.

    In 1492, after conquering the last Muslim stronghold in Spain, monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella gave the remaining Spanish Jews the choice of conversion or exile. Eventually, people who converted from Islam would be expelled as well.

    Among Jews who converted, some sought new lives within the rapidly expanding Spanish empire. As the historian Jonathan Israel wrote, Jews and conversos were both “agents and victims of empire.” Their familiarity with Iberian language and culture, combined with the dispersion of their community, positioned them to participate in the new global economy: trade in sugar, textiles, spices – and the trade in human lives, Atlantic slavery.

    Yet conversos were also far more vulnerable than their compatriots: They could lose it all, even end up burned alive at the stake, because of their beliefs. This double consciousness – being part of the culture, yet apart from it – is what makes conversos vital to understanding the complexities of colonial Latin America.

    By the 17th century, once the Dutch and the English conquered parts of the Americas, Jews would be able to live there. Often, these were families whose ancestors had been expelled from the Iberian peninsula. In the first Spanish and Portuguese colonies, however, Jews were not allowed to openly practice their faith.

    Secret spirituality

    One of these conversos was Luis de Carvajal. His uncle, the similarly named Luis de Carvajal y de la Cueva, was a merchant, slave trader and conquistador. As a reward for his exploits he was named governor of the New Kingdom of León, in the northeast of modern-day Mexico. In 1579 he brought over a large group of relatives to help him settle and administer the rugged territory, which was made up of swamps, deserts and silver mines.

    A statue in Monterrey, Mexico, of Luis Carvajal y de la Cueva.
    Ricardo DelaG/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA

    The uncle was a devout Catholic who attempted to shed his converso past, integrating himself into the landed gentry of Spain’s New World empire. Luis the younger, however, his potential heir, was a passionate crypto-Jew who spent his free time composing prayers to the God of Israel and secretly following the commandments of the Torah.

    When Luis and his family were arrested by the Inquisition in 1595, his book of spiritual writings was discovered and used as evidence of his secret Jewish life. Luis, his mother and sister were burned at the stake, but the small, leather-bound diary survived.

    A 19th-century depiction of the execution of Luis de Carvajal the Younger’s sister.
    ‘El Libro Rojo, 1520-1867’ via Wikimedia Commons

    Luis’ religious thought drew on a wide range of early modern Spanish culture. He used a Latin Bible and drew inspiration from the inwardly focused spirituality of Catholic thinkers such as Fray Luis de Granada, a Dominican theologian. He met with the hermit and mystic Gregorio López. He discovered passages from Maimonides and other rabbis quoted in the works of Catholic theologians whom he read at the famed monastery of Santiago de Tlatelolco, in Mexico City, where he worked as an assistant to the rector.

    His spiritual writings are deeply American: The wide deserts and furious hurricanes of Mexico were the setting of his spiritual awakenings, and his encounters with the people and cultures of the emerging Atlantic world shaped his religious vision. This little book is a unique example of the brilliant, creative culture that developed in the crossing from Old World to New, born out of the exchange and conflict between diverse cultures, languages and faiths.

    A glimpse of Luis de Carvajal’s spiritual writings, photographed in New York City.
    Ronnie Perelis

    More than translation

    Spanish Jews who refused to convert in 1492, meanwhile, had been forced into exile and barred from the kingdom’s colonies.

    The journey of Joseph Ha-Kohen’s family illustrates the hardships. After the expulsion, his parents moved to Avignon, the papal city in southern France, where Joseph was born in 1496. From there, they made their way to Genoa, the Italian merchant city, hoping to establish themselves. But it was not to be. The family was repeatedly expelled, permitted to return, and then expelled again.

    Despite these upheavals, Ha-Kohen became a doctor and a merchant, a leader in the Jewish community – earning the respect of the Christian community, too. Toward the end of his life, he settled in a small mountain town beyond the city’s borders and turned to writing.

    After a book on wars between Christianity and Islam, and another one on the history of the Jews, he began a new project. Ha-Kohen adapted “Historia General de las Indias,” an account of the Americas’ colonization by Spanish historian Francisco López de Gómara, reshaping the text for a Jewish audience.

    A 1733 edition of ‘Divrei Ha-Yamim,’ Ha-Kohen’s book about wars between Christian and Muslim cultures.
    John Carter Brown Library via Wikimedia Commons

    Ha-Kohen’s work was the first Hebrew-language book about the Americas. The text was hundreds of pages long – and he copied his entire manuscript nine times by hand. He had never seen the Americas, but his own life of repeated uprooting may have led him to wonder whether Jews would one day seek refuge there.

    Ha-Kohen wanted his readers to have access to the text’s geographical, botanical and anthropological information, but not to Spain’s triumphalist narrative. So he created an adapted, hybrid translation. The differences between versions reveal the complexities of being a European Jew in the age of exploration.

    Ha-Kohen omitted references to the Americas as Spanish territory and criticized the conquistadors for their brutality toward Indigenous peoples. At times, he compared Native Americans with the ancient Israelites of the Bible, feeling a kinship with them as fellow victims of oppression. Yet at other moments he expressed estrangement and even revulsion at Indigenous customs and described their religious practices as “darkness.”

    Translating these men’s writing is not just a matter of bringing a text from one language into another. It is also a deep reflection on the complex position of Jews and conversos in those years. Their unique vantage point offers a window into the intertwined histories of Europe, the Americas and the in-betweenness that marked the Jewish experience in the early modern world.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Jews were barred from Spain’s New World colonies − but that didn’t stop Jewish and converso writers from describing the Americas – https://theconversation.com/jews-were-barred-from-spains-new-world-colonies-but-that-didnt-stop-jewish-and-converso-writers-from-describing-the-americas-258278

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI: 0 equipment, 0 skills, 0 threshold, RICH Miner allows you to earn while playing!

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, June 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In traditional concepts, mining means investing thousands of mining machines, spending huge electricity bills, and understanding complex mining machine configuration and maintenance. For ordinary users, this high threshold almost makes the possibility of mining out of reach. But now, RICH Miner breaks this barrier and realizes true “0 equipment, 0 skills, 0 threshold” cloud mining, allowing you to easily start the cryptocurrency passive income mode with just a few clicks.

    Platform highlights

    1. 0 equipment: All mining machines are borne by the platform
    Global green mines: RICH Miner has self-built or cooperative mines in North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia, all of which use clean energy (wind, solar, and hydropower), without the need for users to purchase, deploy, or maintain any hardware.

    Centralized operation and maintenance: Professional teams monitor 24/7 to ensure stable computing power output and avoid any downtime or performance degradation.

    2.0 Skills: AI fully automatic mining
    Intelligent computing power scheduling: The built-in AI algorithm monitors the income status of major mining pools in real time, and automatically allocates your computing power to the mining pool with the highest output, without manual switching.

    One-click start: After registration, click “Start mining”, and the system will run immediately, without command line or server setup.

    3.0 Threshold: Free experience + flexible contract
    Register for benefits: New users can get a $15 reward and experience the mining process at zero cost.

    Multiple contracts: short-term daily settlement, 7 days, 30 days, multiple options; how much computing power to invest, freely decide, flexibly meet different budgets and needs.

        Contract Potential Profit Table
    Contract Price Contract duration Daily income Total revenue
    $100  2 $3  $100.00 + $6
    $700  8 $8.68  $500.00 + $69.44
    $1,600  15 $21.60  $1600.00 + $324
    $3,300  18 $46.20  $3300.00 + $831.60
    $5,600  22 $84.00  $5600.00 + $1848
    $8,800  28 $140.80  $8800.00 + $3942.40

    All contract income is fair and open-control your wealth freedom anytime, anywhere, and download the official APP with one click.

    (Click to download mobile APP)

    RICH Miner provides a trustworthy, transparent and environmentally friendly way to accumulate wealth with minimal effort.

    Deposits support multiple currencies: BTC, ETH, XRP, DOGE, USDT and other mainstream currencies are available.

    Revenue mechanism and user benefits
    Daily automatic settlement: The system will settle daily income in seconds according to the computing power held, without manual claiming.

    Flexible withdrawal: After reaching the minimum withdrawal threshold, you can withdraw the currency to your personal wallet or exchange with one click, and the funds flow freely.

    Invitation reward: Share the exclusive invitation link, and after your friends register and start mining, you can also get an additional 3% reward, realizing the dual benefits of “playing and earning + team”.

    User Voice
    “I have never been involved in mining before. It took less than five minutes to register RICH Miner and I didn’t even have to worry about the electricity bill. I received dozens of dollars on the first day. After a month, my side income exceeded 2,000 US dollars. It was a surprise!”
    – Laura, a user from Mexico

    “The platform can see the increase in income every day. It is much more stable than speculating in coins, and it can be operated with a mobile phone. Instead of leaving the coins in your wallet idle, it is better to use it to help you make money!”
    – Markus, a user from Germany

    Conclusion: Everyone can become a “digital miner”
    In RICH Miner, mining is no longer exclusive to technical gods, but an easy game that anyone can participate in. 0 equipment, 0 skills, 0 threshold, so that every user can enjoy the fun of passive income. Don’t let your digital assets lie in your wallet in vain, register RICH Miner now, receive your free computing power, and start a new experience of earning while playing!

    Act now: Click here to register and start your smart cloud mining journey now!
    Official website: https://richminer.com
    Official email: info@richminer.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Turbo Energy Announces Results of 2025 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VALENCIA, Spain, June 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Turbo Energy, S.A. (NASDAQ:TURB) (“Turbo Energy” or the “Company”), a leader in the field of photovoltaic energy storage, today announced that the following resolutions were approved at its 2025 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders held on June 24, 2024 in Valencia, Spain:

    1. To elect eight persons to the Board of Directors of the Company, each to serve until the next annual general meeting of shareholders, or until such person’s successor is duly elected and qualified or until his or her earlier death, resignation, retirement, disqualification or removal;
      1. To ratify the appointment of TAAD, LLP as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2025;
        1. To ratify the appointment of Grant Thornton, SLP Sociedad Unipersonal as the Company’s Spanish public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2025;
          1. To assess and, where appropriate, approve of the individual annual accounts (balance sheet, profit and loss account, statement of changes in equity for the year, cash flow statement and notes to the annual accounts), as well as the management report, as required under the Spanish law;
            1. To examine and, where appropriate, approve the individual annual accounts’ proposed results allocation, as required under the Spanish law;
              1. To examine and, where appropriate, approve the management of the Company by the Board of Directors (the Board”) for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, as required under the Spanish law;
                1. To examine and, where appropriate, approve the delegation to the Board of the power to carry out capital increases, within the limit provided for in Article 297.1.B of the Spanish Companies Act, up to half of the share capital at the date of the authorization, within the legal period of one year from the date of this Annual Meeting, with the possibility of carrying out the increase on one or more occasions and with the power to exclude the right of subscription in whole or in part, in accordance with the provisions of Article 506 of the Spanish Companies Act. This delegation to increase the share capital excluding subscription rights may not exceed twenty percent of the Company’s share capital;
                  1. To examine and, where appropriate, approve to authorize, as the case may be, the Board for a non-extendable period of one year, pursuant to the provisions of Article 319 of the Commercial Registry Regulations and 511 of the Spanish Companies Act, and on one or more occasions, to issue bonds or bonds convertible and/or exchangeable for shares of the Company, including instruments of a similar nature, convertible or exchangeable for shares of the Company, or which may directly or indirectly entitle the Board to subscribe shares of the Company, including warrants, with express powers to exclude pre-emptive subscription rights in issues, with the Board being empowered to set the conditions thereof, in accordance with the conversion bases agreed by the shareholders’ meeting, and to proceed with the capital increases required for their conversion, excluding the shareholders’ pre-emptive rights, provided that when exercising the delegation, the mandatory reports required by current legislation are submitted, both by the Board itself and by the Independent Auditor appointed if necessary. The maximum amount of the issues authorized under said delegation may not exceed the global amount of 60,000,000 Euros, nor may the individual issue in each case require the simultaneous approval of a capital increase of more than twenty percent of the total capital resulting therefrom. Furthermore, in the event that the pre-emptive subscription right is excluded from the issues, the maximum number of shares into which the bonds issued or instruments of a similar nature may be converted may not exceed twenty percent of the number of shares comprising the share capital at the time of the authorization;
                    1. To grant powers for the execution and notarization of resolutions. To execute such public documents as may be necessary for the due formalization and registration in the Mercantile Registry of the resolutions adopted at this Annual Meeting, including the correction or rectification, if necessary; and
                      1. To read and approve, where appropriate, the general shareholders meeting minutes.

                        2. The complete text of the resolutions and related background are set forth in the proxy statement filed by the Company with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on June 9, 2025.

                        About Turbo Energy, S.A.

                        Founded in 2013, Turbo Energy is a globally recognized pioneer of proprietary solar energy storage technologies and solutions managed through Artificial Intelligence. Turbo Energy’s elegant all-in-one and scalable, modular energy storage systems empower residential, commercial and industrial users expanding across Europe, North America and South America to materially reduce dependence on traditional energy sources, helping to lower electricity costs, provide peak shaving and uninterruptible power supply and realize a more sustainable, energy-efficient future. A testament to the Company’s commitment to innovation and industry disruption, Turbo Energy’s introduction of its flagship SUNBOX represents one of the world’s first high performance, competitively priced, all-in-one home solar energy storage systems, which also incorporates patented EV charging capability and powerful AI processes to optimize solar energy management. Turbo Energy is a proud subsidiary of publicly traded Umbrella Global Energy, S.A., a vertically integrated, global collective of solar energy-focused companies.  For more information, please visit www.turbo-e.com.

                        Forward-Looking Statements

                        Statements in this press release about future expectations, plans and prospects, as well as any other statements regarding matters that are not historical facts, may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of the business of the Company, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” “would” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control, including the risks described in our registration statements and annual report under the heading “Risk Factors” as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date hereof, and Turbo Energy, S.A. specifically disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

                        For more information, please contact:
                        At Turbo Energy, S.A.                                                 
                        Dodi Handy, Director of Communications                       
                        Phone: 407-960-4636                                                   
                        Email: dodihandy@turbo-e.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Free IQ Test Online with Instant Results – Fast, Accurate & Free: QuickIQTest.org Launches Updated 2025 Free IQ Testing Service

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, June 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — QuickIQTest.org launches free IQ test with Instant results and no registration required. The company is proud to announce the official release of its updated free IQ test online, offering instant results through a scientifically designed, user-friendly platform. The new version allows users worldwide to complete an accurate cognitive assessment in under 10 minutes, entirely free and without requiring any personal information or registration.

    ⇒ Take the Free IQ Test Online – No Delay, No Cost!

    QuickIQTest.org is a leading online resource for cognitive self-assessment. Focused on accessibility, scientific accuracy, and honest reporting, the platform has helped millions of users worldwide better understand their cognitive skills without fees, sign-ups, or invasive data practices.

    Already used by millions, QuickIQTest.org’s latest IQ testing tool provides a fast, accessible way to evaluate fluid intelligence, logical reasoning, numerical comprehension, and spatial pattern recognition. Whether accessed from a smartphone, tablet, or desktop, the test offers a seamless experience across devices.

    ⇒ Start Your Free IQ Test Online – Instant, Accurate Results!

    “We created this test to be practical, honest, and available to everyone without barriers,” said a spokesperson for QuickIQTest.org. “With the 2025 update, we’ve focused on delivering speed and scientific accuracy, without compromising user privacy or simplicity.”

    Unlike many free IQ test online service providers that rely on gimmicks or upsells, QuickIQTest.org delivers immediate IQ scores along with a basic breakdown of performance across core cognitive areas. For users seeking a deeper understanding, an optional advanced analysis provides further interpretation of results.

    ⇒ Start your Free IQ Test Online – Fast, Proven, Accurate!

    This release reinforces the platform’s mission to offer a credible, no-cost tool for individuals looking to understand their cognitive strengths and thinking style better. The test is ideal for:

    • Students exploring their learning profile
    • Educators seeking classroom-ready assessment tools
    • Professionals curious about their problem-solving abilities
    • Anyone interested in how they process and analyze information

    ⇒ Take a Free IQ Test with Instant Results on QuickIQTest.org

    Key Features of the Updated Free IQ Test at QuickIQTest.org:

    • ✅ 100% Free IQ Test Online
    • ✅ Instant Results with No Sign-Up Required
    • ✅ Mobile & Desktop Friendly
    • ✅ Scientifically Designed Questions
    • ✅ Basic and Advanced Score Interpretation Options
    • ✅ No Data Collection to View Results

    As global demand grows for free IQ tests with instant results, QuickIQTest.org sets itself apart by offering a transparent, science-based testing experience without distractions, ads, or misleading scoring tactics.

    ⇒ Try the Free IQ Test with Free Results at QuickIQTest.org

    What Is an IQ Test?

    IQ stands for Intelligence Quotient. It is a score derived from standardized tests to measure a person’s ability to reason, solve problems, and recognize patterns. An IQ score reflects how someone performs compared to others in their age group. The average IQ is typically set at 100, with most people scoring between 85 and 115.

    These tests are often used in academic and professional settings to assess cognitive performance. While they don’t measure creativity or emotional understanding, they are a common method for evaluating specific mental skills.

    ⇒ Get Instant Scores with This Trusted Free IQ Test Online

    The Purpose of IQ Testing

    The primary function of an IQ test is to evaluate how effectively a person processes information. These assessments focus on areas such as:

    • Logical reasoning
    • Pattern recognition
    • Numerical analysis
    • Visual-spatial awareness
    • Short-term memory

    IQ tests are used in education, research, career planning, and personal development. Many people also take them out of curiosity, looking for a clearer picture of how their thinking compares to others.

    ⇒ Free IQ Test with Results – Fast, Honest, No Registration!

    A Brief History of IQ Tests

    The first modern IQ test was created in France in the early 1900s. Psychologist Alfred Binet developed a method to identify students who needed additional academic support. Lewis Terman later adapted his system in the United States at Stanford University, resulting in the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale.

    This version introduced the idea of comparing mental age to actual age, which became the foundation for the IQ scoring model that is still in use today. Over the years, new tests have been developed to include broader types of reasoning and improved scoring accuracy.

    ⇒ Start the Free Online IQ Test at QuickIQTest.org Today!

    IQ Testing Today

    Modern IQ tests are often taken online. These tests typically use timed multiple-choice questions designed to measure core thinking abilities. Thanks to digital platforms, users can now take a free IQ test online and receive their score within minutes without needing an in-person appointment or long wait times.

    One widely used option is the test offered at QuickIQTest.org. It provides a science-based format that includes logical and visual tasks. No registration is required, and results are available immediately.

    IQ Tests for Children

    IQ testing is not limited to adults. There are versions specifically designed for children that use age-appropriate questions and scoring. A free IQ test for kids can help parents better understand how their child approaches problem-solving and which tasks they respond to most effectively. The test at QuickIQTest.org offers this option using the same standard of accuracy as the general version.

    ⇒ Try a Proven Free IQ Test Online – Instant Results Included!

    How Do Free IQ Test Online Work?

    Online IQ tests are built around structured tasks that aim to measure specific areas of cognitive function. The most common formats include:

    • Logic puzzles: Identify relationships between shapes or sequences
    • Visual reasoning: Complete or match patterns using spatial awareness
    • Numerical sequences: Find missing values or detect number patterns
    • Short-term memory tasks: Recall and manipulate sets of information

    These formats are designed to measure fluid reasoning and problem-solving ability under controlled conditions.

    The test questions are usually multiple-choice. Users are asked to select the correct answer based on the data presented. Each question is intended to be objective and free from cultural or language bias.

    ⇒ Take This Free IQ Test with Free Instant Results Now!

    Structure of the Test on QuickIQTest.org

    The online IQ test at QuickIQTest.org uses a clear layout and simple instructions. The test begins immediately after the user starts. No login or email is required to initiate or see the results.

    The structure includes a series of progressively challenging tasks. The sequence of questions has been designed by cognitive assessment professionals. All items are displayed one at a time to reduce distractions.

    Most users complete the test in 10 minutes or less. The design allows for fast processing without sacrificing test quality.

    ⇒ Take an Accurate IQ Test Free Online in Minutes!

    Timed vs. Untimed Tests

    QuickIQTest.org uses a timed model. Each question must be answered within a certain period. This helps measure how quickly a user can recognize patterns or solve problems. A consistent time limit also allows scores to be compared across various users.

    Some IQ tests allow unlimited time. While this format may reduce pressure, it can produce less reliable results. Users may perform better or worse depending on test-taking habits rather than cognitive processing speed when speed is not controlled.

    The timed approach used at QuickIQTest.org is consistent with most standardized IQ assessments. It helps provide a balanced view of both accuracy and pace.

    ⇒ Get Trusted Instant Results with a Free IQ Test Online

    Scoring and Instant Results

    Once the test is complete, scores are generated immediately. This is one of the main advantages of using an online IQ test that is free from QuickIQTest.org.

    The platform uses a proprietary scoring system based on established intelligence testing models. The user’s performance is compared to normative data to produce an IQ score. That score represents where a person falls relative to others in their age group.

    The user receives performance feedback across specific questions along with the overall result. This includes reasoning accuracy, speed, and problem type. No additional sign-up is needed to access these details.

    This format provides a quick and reliable assessment that reflects real cognitive ability for users looking for a free IQ test with instant results.

    ⇒ Take Your IQ Test Free with QuickIQTest.org – Fast & Accurate

    Benefits of Taking a Free IQ Test Online

    Immediate Access to Results

    One of the main reasons people choose to get a free IQ test online is speed. After completing the test on QuickIQTest.org, results are provided instantly. There is no waiting period, and users do not need to provide personal information to receive their scores. This makes the process efficient for anyone seeking immediate feedback.

    For those comparing options, a free accurate IQ test that delivers real-time scoring offers a practical solution. The structure used by QuickIQTest.org allows for quick test completion while maintaining consistency in how answers are evaluated.

    ⇒ Free IQ Test with Free Results – Reliable and No Cost!

    No Registration Required

    QuickIQTest.org does not require users to create an account or submit contact information. The test can be accessed directly from the homepage, and users receive their results immediately after completion.

    This approach appeals to individuals who prefer to keep testing private. There are no follow-up emails or prompts to share results. The focus remains on allowing users to measure their cognitive ability without added steps.

    ⇒ Take the Free IQ Test Online – No Credit Card Needed!

    Practical Use Cases

    IQ tests are used for a variety of reasons. Some take them to evaluate personal strengths. Others use the results to support academic or professional planning.

    • Students may use IQ scores to identify areas of strength or prepare for standardized testing.
    • Professionals may take a test to assess their problem-solving ability in preparation for interviews or advancement opportunities.
    • Parents may use a test to better understand their child’s learning style or reasoning skills.

    A free IQ test and results allow exploring these areas without cost or commitment.

    ⇒ QuickIQTest.org’s Free IQ Test with Instant Results Available

    Compatible Across Devices

    The test at QuickIQTest.org works on most devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. The interface is built for responsive access, with no downloads required.

    This level of access makes it easy for users to complete the test when it is most convenient for them. Whether at home or on a break at work, the platform supports a flexible testing experience.

    Focused Format

    Online testing also removes some of the obstacles found in traditional assessments. There is no need to travel, schedule an appointment, or complete paperwork. Instead, the test is available anytime, and users can begin as soon as they are ready.

    Since the test follows a simple, focused layout, users are not distracted by unrelated content or advertising interruptions.

    ⇒ Free Online IQ Test – Trusted and Fast, Try Now

    Free vs. Paid Online IQ Tests

    What Free Tests Typically Provide

    A free IQ test online usually offers a short series of timed questions to give a basic overview of a person’s reasoning ability. These questions often cover visual patterns, logic, and numerical sequences. Many users try free versions to get a general sense of how they perform these tasks.

    At QuickIQTest.org, the free IQ test includes a full set of questions and provides an immediate score once the test is completed. Registering or entering an email is not required to see the result. The structure allows users to complete the assessment without delays or access issues.

    The free IQ test with free results includes a performance summary across different types of reasoning. While more detailed reporting is available through the platform’s paid option, the basic score is presented clearly and without restriction.

    ⇒ Get a Free IQ Test with Results – Easy and Quick

    How Paid Versions Compare

    Some users may choose to upgrade for a more detailed breakdown of their score. Paid versions typically offer extended insights into cognitive categories, including logic, spatial awareness, numerical reasoning, and timing accuracy.

    Paid IQ tests can also include downloadable reports, percentile rankings, and score interpretation guides. These may be helpful for individuals using their test results for academic or professional purposes.

    QuickIQTest.org offers this option, but it does not restrict the free version in a way that forces users to pay. The full test and core results remain free to access.

    ⇒ Take an IQ Test Free Online – No Waiting, Instant Results

    When Paid Upgrades Make Sense

    A paid test may be helpful in the following situations:

    • When a user needs a full cognitive profile for documentation or planning
    • When applying for certain academic programs or training institutions
    • When preparing for high-level job assessments that include aptitude testing

    The extended score analysis can provide more detailed insight than the basic version in these cases.

    For casual users or those looking to test their ability quickly, the free IQ test online free from QuickIQTest.org is often sufficient.

    ⇒ Reliable Free IQ Test Online with Free Instant Results!

    Warning Signs to Watch For

    While many free IQ test sites claim to offer value, not all follow transparent practices. Some common issues include:

    • Requiring payment before showing the score
    • Showing inflated results with no explanation of how the score was calculated
    • Redirecting users to unrelated offers or subscriptions
    • Requiring full personal information to unlock any results

    These signs suggest that the test is focused on data collection or marketing, not accurate scoring.

    QuickIQTest.org avoids these tactics by providing a free IQ test with free results that are accessible, clear, and independent of promotional pressure.

    ⇒ IQ Test Free Results – Take It Today for Proven Accuracy

    How to Prepare for a Free IQ Test Online

    One of the most effective ways to prepare for a free IQ test online is to become familiar with the questions you will likely encounter. These usually include:

    • Number sequences
    • Visual pattern recognition
    • Logical reasoning tasks
    • Short-term memory questions
    • Word problems or analogies

    Practicing similar formats can help reduce hesitation during the actual test. These question types can be found in logic puzzle books or educational apps. Reviewing examples in advance can help build confidence.

    ⇒ Try the IQ Test Free Online at QuickIQTest.org

    Set Up a Focused Environment

    Taking the test in a quiet and comfortable space can help reduce distractions. Before beginning, it’s recommended to:

    • Choose a time of day when you feel alert
    • Turn off phone notifications or close other browser tabs
    • Use headphones if background noise is a concern
    • Have a pen and paper nearby if you prefer to make notes

    The test at QuickIQTest.org is timed, so being prepared before starting allows you to focus on answering questions without interruptions.

    Manage Test Anxiety

    Some users may feel pressure when taking a timed test, especially if unfamiliar with the format. Keeping expectations realistic can reduce unnecessary stress.

    Here are a few basic strategies to manage test anxiety:

    • Take a few minutes to breathe deeply before starting
    • Remember that the score reflects performance at one moment, not overall intelligence
    • Stay focused on one question at a time
    • Move on if a question takes too long, and return to it later if possible

    Staying calm often leads to better performance than over-preparing or worrying about the outcome.

    ⇒ Fast & Accurate Free IQ Test with Free Results

    Rest and Mental Warmups

    Being well-rested can improve concentration and reduce mistakes. Try to get adequate sleep the night before and avoid taking the test when tired or distracted.

    Before starting the test, consider doing a short mental warmup. This could include:

    • Solving a few basic math problems
    • Looking at a sample logic puzzle
    • Reading a short article to get your mind working

    These steps help activate the thinking processes used during the test without causing fatigue.

    Use the Test as a Self-Check

    An IQ test is one way to observe how you approach problem-solving under time pressure. It does not require weeks of preparation. Reviewing question types and setting up a calm space can be enough for most users to feel ready.

    For those looking to take a free IQ test and free results, QuickIQTest.org offers a format that requires no registration and gives results immediately. You can take the IQ test for free and repeat it later to see how consistent your scores are over time.

    ⇒ Take a Proven Online IQ Test Free with Instant Feedback

    Most Accurate Free IQ Test Online With Instant Results in 2025


    What Accuracy Means in IQ Testing

    Accuracy in an IQ test refers to how well it measures the abilities it is designed to assess. A well-designed test should reflect actual reasoning skills, not test-taking tricks or memorized answers. This includes clear questions, controlled timing, and scoring models based on extensive sample data.

    Tests that adjust difficulty, apply consistent time limits, and avoid bias tend to produce more dependable scores. Randomized question order, structured answer formats, and logic-based scoring models help reduce user inconsistencies.

    ⇒ Free IQ Test Online with Proven Accuracy – Start Now

    Key Features That Contribute to Accuracy

    Several technical factors improve the reliability of an online IQ test:

    • Standardized scoring: Results are calibrated against age-based norms
    • Balanced question design: Covers a wide range of reasoning tasks
    • Time control: Limits help reduce inflated scores caused by prolonged thinking
    • Adaptive feedback: Some platforms tailor scores based on speed and accuracy

    These features help prevent results from being skewed by guessing, overthinking, or external interference.

    ⇒ Free IQ Test and Results – Take Yours Instantly

    Why QuickIQTest.org is Considered a Leading Option

    QuickIQTest.org is often recommended by users who want a reliable, fast, and unbiased cognitive test. It includes:

    • A fixed set of logic-based tasks
    • A consistent, timed format
    • Instant scoring based on data models that reflect a broad user base
    • No registration or user tracking required to access the results

    Each score uses established test theory principles modeled after long-standing IQ frameworks in education and psychology. This positions the site as a strong option for users seeking the most accurate IQ test available for free.

    The test has been used by students, professionals, and teachers across different fields. Many have cited its simplicity and fairness as reasons they recommend it to others.

    ⇒ Try a Free IQ Test with Instant Results – Trusted Platform

    Understanding Your IQ Score

    How Scores Are Calculated

    An IQ score is a number used to indicate how a person performed on a structured reasoning ability test compared to others in the same age group. Most modern IQ tests use a scale where the average score is 100.

    This number does not change significantly between test platforms that follow recognized standards. A proper scoring system compares individual results to a large sample of test-takers. Scores are then grouped into categories for interpretation.

    General Score Ranges

    IQ scores are often organized into bands that reflect different types of performance. While specific labels can vary by test, the general breakdown is as follows:

    • Below 85: Below average
    • 85 to 99: Low average
    • 100 to 114: Average range
    • 115 to 129: Above average
    • 130 and above: High ability or gifted range

    QuickIQTest.org uses this common structure to present scores clearly. After finishing the test, users receive their number score and an explanation of the performance range.

    ⇒ Start the Trusted Free IQ Test Online – QuickIQTest.org

    What the Score Means

    The score reflects how well the user completed reasoning tasks under controlled conditions. It does not measure creativity, motivation, knowledge, or communication skills. It is also not a prediction of future success. Instead, it shows how someone performed on a specific type of problem-solving under time pressure.

    For this reason, scores may change slightly between attempts, especially if a user is more familiar with the format the second time. Consistency across attempts is one way to check for reliability.

    How QuickIQTest.org Presents Results

    After completing the free IQ test with results, users are shown:

    • Their overall IQ score
    • A basic breakdown of task types (e.g., logic, patterns, numbers)
    • A brief interpretation of the score range

    There is no requirement to register to access these details. The feedback is available immediately after completing the test.

    The platform also allows users to try the test again at any time. This can help track progress or compare scores across different days or devices.

    ⇒ Get Your IQ Test Free Results at QuickIQTest.org

    Free IQ Tests for Kids, Teens, and Adults

    Why Age Matters in IQ Testing

    IQ scores reflect how a person performs with others in the same age group. This is why age is a key factor in the test format and the interpretation of results. A test that does not account for age can produce misleading outcomes.

    Children, teens, and adults often process information differently. The types of tasks they handle best and the time needed to complete them may vary. An accurate IQ test should use a scoring model that adjusts for these differences.

    Use Cases by Age Group

    IQ tests are used for different purposes depending on the age of the person taking them:

    • Kids: Educators and parents may use test results to understand learning strengths or to determine if further evaluation is needed for gifted programs or academic support.
    • Teens: Testing during high school can help students explore their problem-solving skills before choosing courses or college plans.
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    How QuickIQTest.org Accommodates All Age Groups

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    QuickIQTest.org provides an IQ test online free of charge with no registration needed. The test is timed, results are given instantly, and users can retake it to check consistency.

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    Is a Free Online IQ Test Legitimate?

    Traditional IQ assessments are often administered by licensed psychologists in a controlled setting. These tests may take one to two hours, involve verbal interviews, and include subtests scored manually. They are sometimes used in academic placement, psychological evaluations, or legal matters.

    Online IQ tests, by comparison, are self-directed and usually shorter. While they do not replace a full clinical evaluation, they can still offer valid feedback when built on recognized test design principles.

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    What Makes a Free Online IQ Test Credible

    A legitimate online IQ test follows specific practices that support fair scoring and user trust. These include:

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    A site that uses inconsistent timing, does not explain scores, or inflates results without justification should be viewed cautiously.

    A real IQ test online also avoids advertising pressure or unrelated offers during test-taking. If a user is constantly redirected or asked for irrelevant information, it may not be a trustworthy source.

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    Why QuickIQTest.org Is Considered Reliable

    QuickIQTest.org is a legit and accurate free IQ test online used by individuals seeking a fast, structured way to evaluate basic reasoning ability. It uses a fixed test format, applies a consistent time frame for each user, and presents results immediately after the test.

    The scoring model is based on standard cognitive testing practices. The test includes logical reasoning, visual sequencing, and numeric analysis, all scored against a baseline designed to reflect average performance ranges.

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    ⇒ Get Proven Results with a Free Online IQ Test

    Conclusion

    QuickIQTest.org offers a free IQ test with instant results that is accurate, fast, and easy to access. The test follows a standardized structure, uses time-based scoring, and does not require registration. Users of all ages can complete the test on any device and receive immediate results backed by a real scoring model.

    Whether you’re looking for a legit IQ test online, a free accurate IQ test, or a iq test free online for kids, the platform provides a reliable option without unnecessary steps.

    FAQs

    What is the best free IQ test online with instant results?

    If you’re looking for a free IQ test with instant results, QuickIQTest.org offers one of the most trusted and scientifically designed options. It delivers fast scoring and immediate feedback without requiring registration.

    Can I really get an accurate IQ test for free?

    Yes, many platforms now offer an IQ test for free that is both reliable and informative. QuickIQTest.org provides a free IQ test online that evaluates core cognitive skills with a validated scoring model.

    Is there an IQ test free online with no registration needed?

    Absolutely. QuickIQTest.org offers a free IQ test online free of sign-ups. You can take the test instantly and receive results in under 10 minutes without creating an account or providing personal data.

    Where can I find a free IQ test with free results?

    You can access a free IQ test with free results at QuickIQTest.org. It’s completely free to take, and your score breakdown is available right after completion—no hidden fees or upsells.

    How long does it take to complete a free online IQ test?

    Most free online IQ test options take between 8 to 12 minutes. The one on QuickIQTest.org is designed to be efficient and accurate, offering a fast way to test your intelligence from any device.

    Do free IQ tests provide reliable results?

    While not all IQ test online free platforms are created equal, some like QuickIQTest.org use standardized question patterns and deliver credible results. It’s a free IQ test with results that reflect core aspects of intelligence.

    Are free IQ tests suitable for students and professionals?

    Yes, a high-quality free IQ test with results can be valuable for students, professionals, and anyone curious about their cognitive abilities. It helps identify strengths in logic, reasoning, and problem-solving.

    Can I take a free IQ test on my phone or tablet?

    Definitely. QuickIQTest.org offers a free IQ test online that’s fully optimized for mobile and desktop. You can complete the test on any device without downloading anything.

    What’s included in a free IQ test with instant results?

    typical free IQ test with instant results includes a score summary and performance breakdown across areas like pattern recognition, logic, and numerical reasoning—all delivered immediately after the test.

    Is there a free IQ test and free results option with no hidden costs?

     Yes. Platforms like QuickIQTest.org provide a free IQ test and free results with no hidden fees or tricks. You can test your IQ and view your score instantly without entering payment information.

    Media Contact
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    All product reviews and descriptions reflect the author’s honest opinion based on available public data, user feedback, and scientific references at the time of writing. The inclusion of affiliate links does not influence the objectivity or integrity of the content. However, readers are encouraged to independently verify product information and consult with healthcare professionals prior to purchase or use.
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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New expertise joins NI Public Sector Transformation Board

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    New expertise joins NI Public Sector Transformation Board

    Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Hilary Benn MP welcomes the news of the appointment of two new members to the Public Sector Transformation Board.

    • The expansion of the Board follows a productive agreement with the Finance Minister John O’Dowd MLA to update the Terms of Reference for the Transformation Board.
    • The two new expert board members are; Gareth Hetherington, Director of Ulster University Economic Policy; and, Professor Helen McCarthy, the NI Executive’s Chief Scientific Officer.
    • The Second Call has now launched to allocate the remaining £102 million of UK Government funding which will help improve public services, and address many of the challenges faced by people across Northern Ireland.

    Hilary Benn MP said:

    The significant progress made since the establishment of the Board has been really important. I was delighted to welcome the first tranche of funding in March this year when £129m was confirmed to help fund six transformation projects across the Departments of Health, Justice, Education and Infrastructure.

    The appointment of Gareth Hetherington and Professor Helen McCarthy will bolster the expertise of the Board as it assesses projects eligible for the remaining £102m allocation for transformation of public services in Northern Ireland. This funding will help build more resilient and responsive public services that better meet the needs of people across Northern Ireland.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New expertise joins NI Public Sector Transformation Board

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    New expertise joins NI Public Sector Transformation Board

    Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Hilary Benn MP welcomes the news of the appointment of two new members to the Public Sector Transformation Board.

    • The expansion of the Board follows a productive agreement with the Finance Minister John O’Dowd MLA to update the Terms of Reference for the Transformation Board.
    • The two new expert board members are; Gareth Hetherington, Director of Ulster University Economic Policy; and, Professor Helen McCarthy, the NI Executive’s Chief Scientific Officer.
    • The Second Call has now launched to allocate the remaining £102 million of UK Government funding which will help improve public services, and address many of the challenges faced by people across Northern Ireland.

    Hilary Benn MP said:

    The significant progress made since the establishment of the Board has been really important. I was delighted to welcome the first tranche of funding in March this year when £129m was confirmed to help fund six transformation projects across the Departments of Health, Justice, Education and Infrastructure.

    The appointment of Gareth Hetherington and Professor Helen McCarthy will bolster the expertise of the Board as it assesses projects eligible for the remaining £102m allocation for transformation of public services in Northern Ireland. This funding will help build more resilient and responsive public services that better meet the needs of people across Northern Ireland.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Onyx Meets Golden Globes® Winner Matīss Kaža, Producer of Flow

    Source: Samsung

    Visual and immersive storytelling is central to how a film is experienced on the big screen by moviegoers. As more people seek premier theatre experiences, filmmakers are increasingly embracing cinema LED screens over projectors to deliver their creations in a way audiences haven’t experienced before, fully immersing the viewer in the worlds they create.
     
    Following the launch of the latest Samsung Onyx (ICD), Matīss Kaža, Golden Globes® winner, Academy Award® winner, and producer of the film ‘Flow’, shared his insights on how Onyx is pushing the boundaries in cinema.
     
    Matīss Kaža is a Latvian director, writer, and producer, renowned for co-writing and co-producing the animated film Flow (2024), which won a Golden Globe® Award for Best Motion Picture – Animated, an Academy Award® for Best Animated Feature, a Toronto International Film Festival – Best Animated Film, a European Film Awards for European Animated Feature Film, and more. His projects have a strong sense of authorship and cinematic vision that resonates beyond national borders.
     
    

    Q: Could you tell us a bit about what the film Flow is about?
     
    Flow is an animated film, without any dialogue, telling the story of a solitary, individualist cat who likes to be by himself. Then suddenly comes this huge flood, destroying the cat’s home and forcing it upon a boat with other animals. On this boat, the cat learns to collaborate and become friends with these animals to survive this new, beautiful and humanless world.
     
    Matīss Kaža shares his experience of watching his work on Samsung Onyx (Poster: Courtesy of Sideshow and Janus Films)
     
     
    Q: As a dialogue-free film, how does a Cinema LED screen enhance the viewing experience for the audience?
    One of the goals of Flow as a dialogue-free film is to essentially have the audience come as close to the cat’s experience as possible, since the film is built around the contrast between the main protagonist and the world around it. Cinema is all about detailing in the visual storytelling, and this comes through on Onyx very well. The world is vividly colourful with the yellows, greens, and blues—and then the cat is dark gray. There’s a huge contrast that shines through when watching on the Onyx screen, with its vivid colours and deep blacks.
     
     
    Flow, played on Samsung Onyx
     
     
    Q: How did the team work through the movements of each of the animals?
     
    We studied the movements of these real animals, down to the most meticulous detail, to make sure our approach to the film was naturalistic for the audience. For example, when something attracts the cat’s attention, rather than twisting its head to look, it would just twist the ear.
     
    Each animal moves in different ways and has different silhouettes, weights, and verticality. It was important for us to nail this process when making the film for the audience to feel fully immersed in this world.
     
    Q: How did it feel to watch Flow on the Samsung Onyx Cinema LED screen?
     
    Many scenes in the film feature foreground and background interactions, and the audience can fully enjoy and experience exactly how we wanted the film to look. The movements are also very clear, and you can see how all the different characters have their particularities, down to the most subtle interactions. From the smallest twitching in the ear and the smallest gaze of the eye, or any little interaction, the level of detail on Onyx makes these perfectly visible for the audience.
     
    “I would have to say that Flow on the Onyx screen really flows.”
     
     
    Q: Did you notice anything new or different about Flow after seeing it on Samsung Onyx?
     
    How vivid the colour was in the beginning – where the cat is still in its home, which is a lovely sculpture garden – really stood out to me. The finer details, like the little butterflies and critters flying around, give this emotion of calmness that might not be noticeable on other screens. The Onyx truly shows the film for what it is—there is very crisp detail and clarity—and it displays things that would go unnoticed in other situations.
     
    “On the Onyx, these little details were perfectly visible –
    details which give a lot to the atmosphere, to the peaceful tone of the scene,”
     
     
    Flow, played on Samsung Onyx
     
     
    Q: Water is a core element of the film. Can you tell us more about its purpose and how the team uses it to add to the story?
     
    The most difficult part of making this movie is the water effect. The dynamics of the water in the storytelling is really important because it’s one of the central metaphors of the film.
     
    On an Onyx screen, you can explicitly see the difference between the little waves in the puddle at the beginning and end of the film. These details are so important to the storytelling, and it really comes through here on the Onyx.
     
    Courtesy of Sideshow and Janus Films
     
    Q: How do the colour, image details, and storytelling jump out more on a screen like Onyx compared to other traditional methods?
     
    Because there is no dialogue in this film, we relied solely on visual storytelling. In terms of visual storytelling, colour is essential—setting the right levels of contrast and the exact color palette—for the scene. It’s what creates the mood and the atmosphere.
     
    These aspects are fundamental to the film and are captured precisely, just as we intended. Every detail and colour really shines on the Onyx screen.
     
     
     
    “Cinema is all about the detail in the storytelling, It always comes through in the detail. And that comes through on the Onyx” says Matīss Kaža, co-writer and co-producer of animated film Flow (2024)
     
     
     
    Q: As a filmmaker, do the capabilities of Onyx help inspire your creative direction for upcoming projects?
     
    I love it when the theatrical experience has me in the middle of the experience, trying to decode what is going on. Filmmakers can do a lot of interesting things using environments, visuals, and powerful storytelling to put audience members in an active relationship with the film. The crispness and range of colours offered on the Onyx bring us back to why we love seeing motion pictures on the big screen. It’s super immersive, and the level of detailing is just incredible.
     
     
    Q: Anything else you would like us to know?
     
    “I do filmmaking for the cinema-going experience;
    that’s where the film really shines.”
     
    Cinemas are where you see the picture as you’re supposed to see it. Every cinematographer and director, I think, has had to come to terms with different cinemas showing different images when using traditional projection. With the uniform approach that the Onyx has, I think that problem might be solved.
     
     
    “Every detail and color really shines on the Onyx screen,” says Matīss Kaža, co-writer and co-producer of animated film Flow (2024)

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Security: France’s Ballestrazzi becomes first female President of INTERPOL

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    8 November 2012

    ROME, Italy – INTERPOL’s 81st General Assembly has closed with delegates electing as the new President of INTERPOL Mireille Ballestrazzi, Deputy Central Director of the French Judicial Police.

    In a symbolic gesture, the INTERPOL flag is handed to a Colombian official, looking ahead to the 2013 General Assembly in Cartagena.

    Mireille Ballestrazzi said she felt a great sense of pride and joy to have been elected as the INTERPOL President and looked forward to serving all of INTERPOL’s 190 member countries.

    Outgoing INTERPOL President Khoo Boon Hui reflects on his time with the Organization.

    Delegates endorsed a series of resolutions on issues including maritime piracy, illicit trafficking in cultural property, the INTERPOL Travel Document, cybercrime and trafficking in illicit goods.

    Current members of the INTERPOL Executive Committee.

    The Italian authorities hosted a successful General Assembly.

    Elected as Vice President for the Americas was Alan Bersin, Assistant Secretary of International Affairs for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (right).

    Nobuyuki Kawai, Director of the Organized Crime Department of the National Police Academy of Japan, was elected as Vice President for Asia.

    Mireille Ballestrazzi, Deputy Central Director of the French Judicial Police, was elected as the new President of INTERPOL by delegates at the 81st General Assembly.

    Italian Minister of Interior Annamaria Cancellieri, left, and INTERPOL President Mireille Ballestrazzi. 

    INTERPOL Secretary General Ronald K. Noble thanks outgoing President Khoo Boon Hui for his four years of service to the Organization.

    Mrs Ballestrazzi said she felt a great sense of pride and joy to have been elected as the President of INTERPOL and looked forward to serving all of INTERPOL’s 190 member countries in ‘an unfailing spirit to promote mutual assistance and solidarity’.

    “I am wholly committed to the fundamental role INTERPOL must play in global police cooperation. By establishing the INTERPOL Global Complex for Innovation and leading other recent initiatives, INTERPOL has placed itself at the forefront of innovation which I will continue to fully support. There is no doubt that this direction will open up drastically new perspectives for INTERPOL and its member countries worldwide as we face together the challenges of today and tomorrow.”

    The President of the Organization heads its Executive Committee and is elected by the General Assembly for a period of four years.

    INTERPOL Secretary General Ronald K. Noble welcomed President Ballestrazzi’s appointment as another example of INTERPOL’s evolution, reflecting the active role of both men and women in the international law enforcement community.

    “As the world’s largest police organization, it is essential that INTERPOL’s leadership offers the best policing and expertise to its 190 member countries in order to meet their needs,” said Mr Noble.

    “Mireille Ballestrazzi’s appointment as President of INTERPOL comes at a time when countries are adapting to the realities of the changing nature of transnational organized crime in the 21st century.

    “She brings invaluable experience in cross-border police collaboration to her role, as well as proven leadership abilities, and I look forward to working closely with her to ensure that INTERPOL continues to provide innovative responses to meet the needs of our member countries, ” added the INTERPOL Chief.

    Paying a warm tribute to outgoing President Khoo Boon Hui of Singapore, Mr Noble said Mr Khoo would be remembered as ‘a champion and driving force of international law enforcement cooperation’.

    Also elected to the Executive Committee were Alan Bersin, Assistant Secretary of International Affairs for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (Vice President for the Americas), Nobuyuki Kawai, Director of the Organized Crime Department of the National Police Academy of Japan (Vice President for Asia), Algeria’s Abdelkader Kara Bouhadba, Commissaire Divisionnaire de Police, Directeur de la  Police Judiciaire (Delegate for Africa), Bob Paulson, Commissioner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (Delegate for the Americas), Jong Yang Kim of the Korean National Police Agency and Head of INTERPOL’s National Central Bureau in Seoul (Delegate for Asia), Brigadier General Saoud Abdallah Al-Mahmoud, Director of the International Cooperation Department of Qatar’s Ministry of Interior (Delegate for Asia), and Filippo Dispenza, Brigadier General of the Italian National Police (Delegate for Europe).

    The four-day conference (5 – 8 November) in Rome was  launched with a Ministerial meeting attended by close to 100 global leaders who endorsed a joint declaration recognizing the need to identify viable strategies to effectively address the changing modes of contemporary criminal violence.

    During the conference, more than 1,000 delegates from some 170 countries endorsed a series of resolutions to build a modern framework for collective action, including on maritime piracy, illicit trafficking in cultural property, the INTERPOL Programme to Combat Trafficking in Illicit Goods launched earlier this year, the INTERPOL Travel Document and cybercrime.

    A groundbreaking initiative by INTERPOL to support the safety and security of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and other major sporting events over the next 10 years was also launched following an agreement with the Qatar 2022 Supreme Committee worth USD 10 million.

    With Cartagena, Colombia, hosting INTERPOL’s next General Assembly in 2013, conference delegates closed the event by selecting Monaco as the venue for INTERPOL’s 83rd General Assembly in 2014, which will mark the 100th anniversary of the first International Criminal Police Congress.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: INTERPOL and the European Union join forces for security in Libya

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    29 November 2012

    LYON, France – Senior Libyan officials from the Ministry of the Interior have attended the first meeting of INTERPOL’s Project RELINC (Rebuilding Libya’s Investigative Capability), a European Union-funded initiative to assist Libyan authorities in developing a sustainable capability to identify security threats and investigate criminal and terrorist activity.

    During the four-day meeting (19 – 22 November) at the General Secretariat headquarters, discussions focused on the key components of the project, including provision of access to INTERPOL’s databases at Libya’s border crossing points and the creation of a crime analysis unit within the criminal investigations department.

    Following the 2011 revolution, the project is aimed at supporting Libyan law enforcement in addressing transnational crimes such as trafficking in weapons, drugs and human beings, which generate violence and threaten to destabilize the country and the region.

    The project consists of seven components :

    • Performing a wide assessment of the threats posed to Libya by transnational organized crime and terrorism, to support the Libyan government and police in identifying strategic enforcement objectives;
    • Initiating the building, within the Libyan police’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID), of a sustainable operational Crime Analysis Unit;
    • Advising the CID to take full operational advantage of the support provided by the future Crime Analysis Unit;
    • Reinforcing the capacity of the INTERPOL National Central Bureau in Tripoli to make optimal use of the INTERPOL network and policing tools;
    • Establishing remote access to INTERPOL databases in key Libyan law enforcement bodies and at strategic border crossing points;
    • Building a prototype police criminal database within police headquarters to enable the Libyan police to efficiently store and share criminal information;
    • Raising the awareness of and training the Libyan police on the international police cooperation tools and mechanisms provided by INTERPOL.

    The 18-month long project, launched in September 2012, is being run from the Office of the Special Representative of INTERPOL to the European Union, with support from INTERPOL’s Middle East and North Africa unit at the General Secretariat.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Greece to prosecute first maritime piracy case with evidence gathered by INTERPOL team

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    12 December 2012

    LYON, France – Evidence gathered by an INTERPOL Incident Response Team (IRT) following the release of the hijacked oil tanker Irene SL in April 2011 is to be used by Greece in its first maritime piracy prosecution.

    Lieutenant General Papagiannopoulos was shown INTERPOL’s Command and Coordination Centre.

    A delegation from Greece, headed by Chief of the Hellenic Police, Lieutenant General Nikolaos Papagiannopoulos (centre), visited the INTERPOL General Secretariat in Lyon.

    INTERPOL Secretary General, Ronald K. Noble (right), pledged his full support to Greek law enforcement.

    The announcement comes during a meeting between Chief of the Hellenic Police Lieutenant General Nikolaos Papagiannopoulos and INTERPOL Secretary General Ronald K. Noble at the world police body’s General Secretariat headquarters to identify ways for additional support to be provided to the Greek police.

    The IRT, supported by the South African Police Service and in coordination with European Union Naval Force (EU NAVFOR) and INTERTANKO, was deployed to Durban in South Africa to conduct a crime scene investigation and debriefing of the hostages on board the Irene SL, following its release by Somali pirates 58 days after the vessel was hijacked off the coast of Oman.

    Several of the crew members on board were also able to identify four of their captors from an INTERPOL photo album on maritime piracy, containing images provided by member states and naval forces operating in the Gulf of Aden and the Western Indian Ocean.

    Secretary General Noble said that the case perfectly highlighted the benefits that INTERPOL brings to member countries and how information sharing and a collaborative approach is essential to addressing crime issues anywhere in the world.

    “In these times of financial constraint the added value that INTERPOL and its global network brings to individual countries and global security is even clearer,” said the INTERPOL Chief.

    “INTERPOL will continue to provide every support to Greece, and also calls on the global law enforcement community, countries and regional institutions to identify areas where they can support Greece in meeting the crime challenges which affect us all,” added Mr Noble.

    Lieutenant General Papagiannopoulos said ‘the opportunities for international law enforcement cooperation through INTERPOL help increase the effectiveness of national police services.’

    “Today’s meeting with Secretary General Noble provided us with the opportunity to explore ways of building on our existing cooperation and to identify ways for future development together,” added Mr Papagiannopoulos.

    During his visit, Mr Papagiannopoulos – accompanied by Brigadier General Zacharoula Tsirigoti, Director of the International Police Cooperation Directorate, and Brigadier General Dimitrios Sofios, Deputy Director of the Attika Criminal Investigation Department – was also updated and briefed on a range of INTERPOL’s tools and services including its global database to enhance police cooperation in areas such as combating illegal immigration and trafficking in human beings.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: INTERPOL-Europol operation results in global seizures of fake and illicit food

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    14 December 2012

    A joint INTERPOL-Europol operation targeting fake and substandard food and drink, as well as the organized crime networks behind this illicit trade, has resulted in the seizure of more than 135 tonnes of potentially harmful goods ranging from everyday products of coffee, soup cubes and olive oil, to luxury goods such as truffles and caviar. A further 100 tonnes of misdeclared and/or potentially hazardous food was confiscated during investigations linked to Operation Opson II.

    Raids and inspections resulted in around 100 arrests and the seizure of more than 135 tonnes of potentially harmful goods, including everyday products such as coffee, soup cubes and olive oil.

    Illicit goods are often produced, transported and stored without any form of hygiene controls, putting the health and safety of consumers at risk.

    This year, Opson expanded beyond Europe to include countries in Africa, the Americas and Asia. Inspections were carried out at this warehouse in Thailand.

    A project under development  –  the INTERPOL Global Register  – will enable people to scan and verify the legitimacy of a product from their mobile device.

    Operation Opson targets fake and substandard food and drink and the organized crime networks behind this illicit trade.

    Cash was also seized during Opson II.

    INTERPOL and Europol representatives helped coordinate action in Madrid, Spain.

    Checks and raids were carried out at airports, seaports, shops, markets and private homes.

    The operation was supported by customs (Hungarian customs officers pictured here), national food regulatory bodies and partners from the private sector.

    The Thai Food and Drug Administration displayed the wide variety of goods seized including snacks, canned food, coffee and soft drinks.

    National police in 29 countries took part. Officers in Budapest, Hungary, were briefed on the operation.

    Opson was a week-long operation, coordinated jointly by INTERPOL and Europol.

    Operation Opson II (3 – 9 December), which involved 29 countries from all regions of the world, resulted in the recovery of more than 385,000 litres of counterfeit liquids including vodka, wine, soy sauce and orange juice in addition to fish, seafood and meat declared unfit for human consumption, as well as fake candy bars and condiments.

    With the fake and substandard food and drink often produced, transported and stored without any form of regulation or hygiene controls, consumers buying these illicit goods are risking their health and safety while the criminal networks make millions in profits which can be used to fund other illegal activities such as human and drug trafficking.

    Operation Opson II saw the number of participating countries rise from 10 in 2011 to nearly 30 this year, an increase which, says Simone Di Meo, a Criminal Intelligence Officer with INTERPOL’s Trafficking in Illicit Goods unit, reflects a growing awareness of the problem and involvement by organized crime.

    “With this year’s operation going beyond Europe and involving countries in Africa, the Americas and Asia, this will enable us to gather even more intelligence about the networks behind this criminal activity and potentially identify global links with other types of crime,” says Mr Di Meo.

    Coordinated by INTERPOL and Europol, the week-long operation was supported by customs, police and national food regulatory bodies in addition to partners from the private sector. Checks and raids were carried out at airports, seaports, shops, markets and private homes.

    “With this operation, we are showing the criminal networks involved in this line of business that they are not safe and, just as importantly, we are helping to protect public health and safety. In many cases, the quality of the packaging of the fake food and drink is so well done that consumers may not even be aware that they are buying illicit products and potentially risking their lives,” says Chris Vansteenkiste, Project Manager of the Intellectual Property Crime Team at Europol.

    Among the key aims of Operation Opson (meaning food in ancient Greek) were the development of practical cooperation between national law enforcement, food and drug agencies and private companies, the identification of the organized criminal groups behind the trafficking, and raising awareness among consumers and governments about this type of crime.

    Countries which took part in Operation Opson II are Austria, Belgium, Benin, Bulgaria, Colombia, Côte d’Ivoire, Czech Republic, Cyprus, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Jordan, Latvia, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Thailand, Turkey, United Kingdom and the USA.

    Investigations are continuing in many countries and additional information on national activities can be obtained from the enforcement agencies of the countries concerned.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Sale of Custody Business in Hsbc Germany

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release

    27 June 2025

    SALE OF CUSTODY BUSINESS IN HSBC GERMANY

    HSBC Continental Europe has reached an agreement to sell its custody business in Germany to BNP Paribas S.A, Niederlassung Deutschland (‘BNP Paribas’) (the ‘Potential Transaction’), reinforcing its focus on being the leading corporate and institutional bank in Germany and Europe for international clients.

    This decision forms part of the simplification strategy of HSBC announced in October 2024. HSBC is focused on increasing its leadership and market share in the areas where it has a clear competitive advantage, and where it has the greatest opportunity to grow and support its clients. This includes connecting European clients to opportunities across HSBC’s international network. For Securities Services, this means focusing on HSBC’s market-leading franchise in Asia and the Middle East and providing best in class custody and fund services to clients in the UK and Europe via our strategic hubs in London, Ireland and Luxembourg.

    The custody business in Germany focuses on domestic custody, clearing and depository services for German institutional clients.

    All custody staff employed by HSBC Continental Europe S.A., Germany, as well as its assets and clients, would transfer to BNP Paribas as part of the Potential Transaction.

    Completion of the Potential Transaction is subject to customary regulatory and anti-trust approvals and the conclusion of negotiations with the Works Council in Germany.

    A phased transfer of staff and clients starting early 2026 is anticipated. Both parties are focused on enabling a smooth transition for clients and colleagues.

    The analysis of strategic options for HSBC Germany’s fund administration business is ongoing.

    Contacts:       

    HSBC Continental Europe
    Headquartered in Paris, HSBC Continental Europe is an indirectly held subsidiary of HSBC Holdings plc. HSBC Continental Europe comprises corporate and institutional banking, private banking, insurance and asset management activities across Continental Europe, including the business activities of 10 European branches (in Belgium, Czech Republic, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain and Sweden) and two banking subsidiaries in Luxembourg and Malta. HSBC Continental Europe’s mission is to serve both customers in Continental Europe for their needs worldwide and Group customers for their needs in Continental Europe.

    HSBC Continental Europe S.A., Germany (‘HSBC Germany’)
    HSBC Germany is the German branch of HSBC Continental Europe, whose activities comprise corporate and institutional banking, private banking and asset management.

    HSBC Holdings plc
    HSBC Holdings plc, the parent company of the HSBC Group, is headquartered in London. HSBC serves customers worldwide from offices in 58 countries and territories. With assets of US$3,054bn at 31 March 2025, HSBC is one of the world’s largest banking and financial services organisations.

    About BNP Paribas (group.bnpparibas)
    Leader in banking and financial services in Europe, BNP Paribas operates in 64 countries and has nearly 178,000 employees, including more than 144,000 in Europe. The Group has key positions in its three main fields of activity: Commercial, Personal Banking & Services for the Group’s commercial & personal banking and several specialised businesses including BNP Paribas Personal Finance and Arval; Investment & Protection Services for savings, investment and protection solutions; and Corporate & Institutional Banking, focused on corporate and institutional clients. Based on its strong diversified and integrated model, the Group helps all its clients (individuals, community associations, entrepreneurs, SMEs, corporates and institutional clients) to realise their projects through solutions spanning financing, investment, savings and protection insurance. In Europe, BNP Paribas has four domestic markets: Belgium, France, Italy and Luxembourg. The Group is rolling out its integrated commercial & personal banking model across several Mediterranean countries, Türkiye, and Eastern Europe. As a key player in international banking, the Group has leading platforms and business lines in Europe, a strong presence in the Americas as well as a solid and fast-growing business in Asia-Pacific. BNP Paribas has implemented a Corporate Social Responsibility approach in all its activities, enabling it to contribute to the construction of a sustainable future, while ensuring the Group’s performance and stability.

    About Securities Services at BNP Paribas (securities.cib.bnpparibas)
    BNP Paribas’ Securities Services business is a leading global custodian providing multi-asset post-trade and asset servicing solutions to buy-side and sell-side market participants, corporates, and issuers. With a global reach covering 90+ markets, its custody network is one of the most extensive in the industry, enabling clients to maximise their investment opportunities worldwide. As a pillar of BNP Paribas’ diversified banking model, Securities Services provides asset servicing solutions that are closely integrated with the first-class services of the Group’s other business lines, in particular those of Global Banking and Global Markets. As of 31 March 2025, Securities Services had USD 15.4 trillion in assets under custody, USD 2.9 trillion in assets under administration and 9,350 funds administered.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • UN bids to salvage global development summit after US boycott

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Scores of world leaders will be sweltering in the summer sun of southern Spain next week at a once-a-decade United Nations development financing summit aimed at curbing global poverty, disease and the worst-case threats of climate change.

    Despite the scorching temperatures, though, a major chill looms over the event – the decision early this month by the United States, traditionally the world’s largest aid giver and key finance provider, not to show up.

    UN countries want to close a $4 trillion-a-year funding gap they now estimate prevents the developing world achieving the organisation’s Sustainable Development Goals that range from cutting infant death rates to minimising global warming.

    Critics say the promises at the heart of the conference – called the “Seville Commitment” – are nowhere near bold enough.

    The measures, agreed by consensus after a year of tough negotiations, include tripling multilateral lending capacity, debt relief, a push to boost tax-to-GDP ratios to at least 15%, and shifting special IMF money to countries that need it most.

    The run-up, however, has been marred by the U.S. decision to withdraw over what it said was the crossing of a number of its red lines, including the push to triple development bank lending, change tax rules and the use of the term “gender” in summit wording.

    The European Union only joined the summit with reservations, particularly over how debt is discussed within the UN.

    Speaking to reporters this week, U.N. Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed described Washington’s boycott as “regrettable”, especially after its “catastrophic” recent aid cuts that she said had cost lives and livelihoods.

    Speaking alongside officials from summit host Spain and Zambia, which has helped organise it, she said the final outcome document agreed reflected both “ambition and realism” and that the U.N. would try to re-engage the U.S. afterwards.

    Remy Rioux, chief executive officer of the French Development Agency, said Washington’s withdrawal had not been a total surprise given Donald Trump’s views. The hope is that agreements next week will allow bolder action at the UN climate talks in Brazil in November.

    “We will push for the new framework… (and) its operationalisation from Seville to Belem,” he added, referring to the Brazilian city that will host COP30.

    AID IN DECLINE

    Other measures to be announced include multilateral lenders automatically giving vulnerable countries the option to insert repayment break clauses into their loans in case of hurricane, drought or flood.

    Another buzz phrase will be a “Global SDR playbook” – a plan where the wealthiest countries rechannel the IMF’s reserve-like Special Draw Rights they hold to the multilateral banks, who then leverage them as capital in order to lend more.

    Campaigners warn that it will fall far short of what is needed, especially as more than 130 countries now face critically high debt levels and many spend more on repayments than on health or education.

    Aid and support from rich countries, who themselves have rising debts, is dropping too.

    In March, the U.S. slashed more than 80% of programmes at its USAID agency following federal budget cuts spearheaded by billionaire Elon Musk. Britain, France, Germany, the Netherlands and Sweden have all made cuts in recent years too.

    The OECD projects a 9–17% drop in net official development assistance (ODA) in 2025, following a 9% decline in 2024.

    It looks set to hit the poorest countries hardest: bilateral ODA to least developed countries and sub-Saharan Africa may fall by 13-25% and 16-28% respectively, the OECD estimates, and health funding could drop by up to 60% from its 2022 peak.

    So what would be a good outcome in Seville, especially given the U.S. pull-out?

    “We should make sure we are not backtracking at this point,” said Orville Grey at the International Institute for Sustainable Development, referring to funding commitments. “We should at least remain stable.”

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Windsor Framework Used to Force Radical Gender Policies on Northern Ireland

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV leader Jim Allister MP:

    “I am deeply concerned by the direction the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland has taken. The document published today marks a clear departure from the Commission’s statutory role as an impartial guardian of equality law. Instead, it reveals an organisation now actively promoting a controversial ideological agenda — using Article 2 of the Windsor Framework as its legal cover.

    “Let me be clear: this paper is not neutral guidance. It is a political document dressed in legal language. It seeks to redefine key concepts like “sex” and “gender reassignment” in ways that go far beyond what our domestic law currently recognises — and flies in the face of the clarity brought by the Supreme Court.

    “The Commission claims that Article 2 of the Windsor Framework requires public authorities, employers, and service providers to align with retained EU equality directives, highlighting once again the pernicious influence of the EU in Northern Ireland. However, even this is highly debatable, given that across the EU many different positions are accommodated when it comes to so-called “trans rights”.

    “Frankly, they are simply wrong. In pushing this into the courts again, they are seeking to kick the can down the road — and they have been influenced by trans lobby groups.

    “In doing so, they have exposed themselves as being deeply influenced by a profoundly dangerous ideology.

    “No one in Northern Ireland voted for this. No one gave the Equality Commission the authority to act as a proxy legislator. And yet that is exactly what is happening.

    “The guidance now being issued to employers and public bodies reads less like a legal resource and more like a manifesto for gender ideology — with demands to rewrite policies, reinterpret longstanding legal terms, and submit to oversight from a Commission that is no longer even pretending to be neutral.

    “This is a fundamental breach of public trust. The Equality Commission was established to protect people from genuine discrimination.

    “We are witnessing the transformation of a public body into an activist organisation.

    “Recent polling has shown that people in Northern Ireland — across the political spectrum — back the common-sense ruling of the Supreme Court. This decision by the Commission is frankly outrageous. If their claims in relation to Article 2 of the Windsor Framework are correct, then it merely underscores the fact that the Protocol needs to go, and that, contrary to the claims of some, its pernicious influence goes well beyond trade.

    “However, this throws up a very particular challenge to HMG: they need to come out fighting against the creep of Article 2 of the Protocol. This will show where the government really stands on our ever expanding subjugation to EU diktat.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese FM to visit EU headquarters, Germany, France, hold high-level dialogues

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 27 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will visit the headquarters of the European Union (EU) from June 30 to July 6 to hold the 13th round of China-EU strategic dialogue, visit Germany to hold the 8th round of China-Germany strategic dialogue on diplomacy and security, and visit France to attend talks with the French Foreign Minister and a meeting of the China-France high-level people-to-people and cultural exchange mechanism, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Friday.

    During his stay in Brussels, Wang Yi, also a member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee, will meet and hold talks with Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Maxime Prevost, respectively, according to the ministry’s statement.

    The department added that Wang Yi will make the relevant visits at the invitation of EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Albanese Government powers Australia’s push to 2026 Paralympic glory

    Source: NGARKAT HIGHWAY, NGARKAT (Grass Fire)

    The Albanese Government is investing more than $2 million dollars to drive Australia’s Winter Paralympians to gold in Italy early next year.

    The $2.058m in funding will enable an athlete-focused approach to the delivery of the Australian Team for next year’s Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games. 

    It will ensure the team’s high-performance, operational, medical, logistical and communications needs are met so athletes perform at their best when it matters most.

    The investment will support Paralympics Australia to plan, secure and deliver the following core functions for Milano Cortina 2026, including sports medicine services such as physiotherapy, nutrition and psychology, comprehensive travel arrangements for athletes and their equipment, the procurement of strategically located village and out-of-village accommodation and other extensive operational and logistical requirements.

    Australia is aiming to take one of its largest ever Australian Teams to the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Paralympic Games next March and will compete in four sports for the first time: Para-alpine skiing, Para-snowboard, Para-cross country, and Para-biathlon.

    The Winter Paralympic Games begin on 6 March.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport, Anika Wells:

    “This $2.058m investment reflects the Albanese Government’s deep belief in the power and potential of the Australian Paralympic Movement.

    “Milano Cortina 2026 is a critical opportunity to build on Australia’s proud Paralympic legacy and inspire a new generation of Winter Paralympians.

    “We aren’t interested in only helping athletes get to the Games, we want them to thrive while there.

    “This Milano Cortina funding ensures our athletes have the support they need to prepare and perform in Italy.

    “In our first term, the Albanese Government invested $55m into Paralympic high performance – the largest commitment a government has ever made.”

    Quotes attributable to Paralympics Australia Chief Executive Cameron Murray:

    “On behalf of Paralympics Australia and our Winter athletes, I thank Minister Wells and the Albanese Government for once again stepping up for our Movement.

    “This funding is vital to deliver the complex and wide-ranging support needed for a world-class Winter Games campaign. From outfitting and medical services to athlete wellbeing, village operations and critical logistics – every aspect of our team’s preparation and performance has been considered.

    “We’re grateful for Minister Wells’ leadership and for the Albanese Government’s sustained and meaningful investment in Para-sport.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Poland, divided between Trump and the EU

    Source: The Conversation – France – By Jacques Rupnik, Directeur de recherche émérite, Centre de recherches internationales (CERI), Sciences Po

    Karol Nawrocki in the Oval Office with Donald Trump on May 25th 2025, ten days before the first round of the Polish presidential election. It is very rare for a sitting US president to receive a candidate in a foreign election.
     White House X account

    Nawrocki’s narrow victory (50.89%) over Trzaskowski, the mayor of Warsaw and candidate of the government coalition, illustrates and reinforces the political polarisation of Poland and the rise of the populist “Trumpist” right in Central and Eastern Europe. Since the start of the war in Ukraine, there has been much speculation about whether Europe’s geopolitical centre of gravity is shifting eastwards. The Polish election seems to confirm that the political centre of gravity is shifting to the right.

    A narrow victory

    We are witnessing a relative erosion of the duopoly of the two major parties, Civic Platform (PO) and Law and Justice (PiS), whose leaders – the current Prime Minister, Donald Tusk, and Jarosław Kaczyński respectively – have dominated the political landscape for over twenty years.

    Kaczyński’s skill lay in propelling a candidate with no responsibilities in his party, who was little known to the general public a few months ago, and, above all, who is from a different generation, to the presidency (a position held since 2015 by a PiS man, Andrzej Duda). Nawrocki, a historian by training and director of the Polish Institute of National Remembrance, has helped shape PiS’s memory policy. He won the second round, despite his troubled past as a hooligan, by appealing to voters on the right.

    In the first round, he won 29.5% of the vote, compared to Trzaskowski’s 31.36%, but the two far-right candidates, Sławomir Mentzen (an ultra-nationalist and economic libertarian) and Grzegorz Braun (a monarchist, avowed reactionary, and anti-Semite), won a total of 21% of the vote. They attracted a young electorate (60% of 18–29-year-olds), who overwhelmingly transferred their votes to Nawrocki in the second round.


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    Despite a high turnout of 71% and favourable votes from the Polish diaspora (63%), Trzaskowski was unable to secure enough votes from the first-round candidates linked to the governing coalition, including those on the left (who won 10% between them) and the centre-right (Szymon Hołownia’s Third Way movement, which won 5% in the first round).

    A Tusk government struggling to implement its programme

    There are two Polands facing each other: the big cities, where incomes and levels of education are higher, and the more rural small towns, which are more conservative on social issues and more closely linked to the Catholic Church.
    The themes of nationhood – Nawrocki’s campaign slogan was “Poland first, Poles first” – family, and traditional values continue to resonate strongly with an electorate that has been loyal to PiS for more than twenty years. The electoral map, which shows a clear north-west/south-east divide, is similar to those of previous presidential elections and even echoes the partition of Poland at the end of the eighteenth century. The PiS vote is strongest in the part of the country that was under Russian rule until 1918. A more traditional Catholicism in these less developed regions, coupled with a strong sense of national identity, partly explains these historical factors.

    The economic explanation for the vote is unconvincing. Over the past 25 years, Poland has undergone tremendous transformation, driven by steady economic growth. GDP per capita has risen from 25% to 80% of the EU average, although this growth has been unevenly distributed. Nevertheless, a relatively generous welfare state has been preserved.

    Clearly, however, this growth, driven by investment from Western Europe (primarily Germany) and European structural funds (3% of GDP), does not provide a sufficient electoral base for a liberal, centrist, pro-European government.

    It is precisely the government’s performance that may hold the key to Trzaskowski’s failure. Having come to power at the end of 2023 with a reformist agenda, Donald Tusk’s government has only been able to implement part of its programme, and it is difficult to be the candidate of an unpopular government. Conversely, the governing coalition has been weakened by the failure of its candidate.

    The main reason for the stalling of reforms is the presidential deadlock. Although the president has limited powers, he countersigns laws and overriding his veto requires a three fifth majority in parliament, which the governing coalition lacks.

    The president also plays a role in foreign policy by representing the country, and above all by appointing judges, particularly to the Supreme Court. This has hindered the judicial reforms expected after eight years of PiS rule. It is mainly in this area that Duda has obstructed progress. The election of Nawrocki, who is known for his combative nature, suggests that the period of cohabitation will be turbulent.

    What are the main international implications of Nawrocki’s election?

    Donald Tusk is now more popular in Europe than in Poland; in this respect, we can speak of a “Gorbachev syndrome”. In Central Europe, the Visegrad Group (comprising Hungary, Poland, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia) is deeply divided by the war in Ukraine, but it could find common ground around a populist sovereignty led by Hungary’s Viktor Orbán. Orbán was the first to congratulate Nawrocki on his victory, followed by his Slovak neighbour Robert Fico. The Czech Republic could also see a leader from this movement come to power if Andrej Babiš wins the parliamentary elections this autumn. Nawrocki would fit right into this picture.

    Since Donald Tusk returned to power, particularly during Poland’s EU presidency, which ends on 30 June, the focus has been on Poland’s “return” to the heart of the European process. Against the backdrop of the war in Ukraine and Poland’s pivotal role in coordinating a European response, the Weimar Group (comprising Paris, Berlin, and Warsaw) has emerged as a key player. Three converging factors have made this possible: the French president’s firm stance toward Russia; the new German chancellor, Friedrich Merz, breaking a few taboos on defence and budgetary discipline; and Donald Tusk, the former president of the European Council, regaining a place at the heart of the EU that his predecessors had abandoned. A framework for a strategic Europe was taking shape.

    However, President Nawrocki, and the PiS more generally, are taking a different approach to the EU: they are positioning themselves as Eurosceptic opponents defending sovereignty. They are playing on anti-German sentiment by demanding reparations 80 years after the end of the Second World War and asserting Poland’s sovereignty in the face of a “Germany-dominated Europe”. The Weimar Triangle, recently strengthened by the bilateral treaty between France and Poland signed on 9 May 2025, could be weakened on the Polish–German flank.

    As a historian and former director of the Second World War Museum in Gdansk and the Institute of National Remembrance, Nawrocki is well placed to exploit this historical resentment. He has formulated a nationalist memory policy centred on a discourse of victimhood, portraying Poland as perpetually under attack from its historic enemies, Russia and Germany.

    While there is a broad consensus in Poland regarding the Russian threat, opinions differ regarding the government’s desire to separate the traumas of the past, particularly those of the last war, from the challenges of European integration today.

    Memory issues also play a prominent role in relations with Ukraine. There is total consensus on the need to provide military support to Ukraine, under attack: this is obvious in Poland, given its history and geography – defending Ukraine is inseparable from Polish security. However, both Nawrocki and Trzaskowski have touched upon the idea that Ukraine should apologise for the crimes committed by Ukrainian nationalists during the last war, starting with the massacre of more than 100,000 Poles in Volyn (Volhynia), north-western Ukraine) by Stepan Bandera’s troops.

    Alongside memory policy, Nawrocki and the PiS are calling for the abolition of the 800 zloty (190 euros) monthly allowance paid to Ukrainian refugees. Poland had more than one million Ukrainian workers prior to the war, and more than two million additional workers have arrived since it started, although around one million have since relocated to other countries, primarily Germany and the Czech Republic.

    Prior to the second round of the presidential election, Nawrocki readily signed the eight demands of the far-right candidate Sławomir Mentzen, which included ruling out Ukraine’s future NATO membership. Playing on anti-Ukrainian (and anti-German) sentiment, alongside Euroscepticism and sovereignty, is one of the essential elements of the new president’s nationalist discourse.

    A Central and Eastern European Trumpism?

    Certain themes of the Polish election converge with a trend present throughout Central and Eastern Europe. We saw this at work in the Romanian presidential election, where the unsuccessful far-right nationalist candidate, George Simion, came to Warsaw to support Nawrocki, just as the winner, the pro-European centrist Nicușor Dan, lent his support to Trzaskowski. Nawrocki’s success reinforces an emerging “Trumpist” movement in Eastern Europe, with Viktor Orbán in Budapest seeing himself as its self-proclaimed leader. A year ago, Orbán coined the slogan “Over there (in the United States), it’s MAGA; here, it will be MEGA: Make Europe Great Again”. The “Patriots for Europe” group, launched by Orbán last year, is intended to unify this movement within the European Parliament.

    American conservative networks, through the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), a gathering of international hard-right figures, and the Trump administration are directly involved in this process. Shortly before the presidential election, Nawrocki travelled to Washington to arrange a photo opportunity with Trump in the Oval Office.

    Most notably, two days before the election, Kristi Noem, the US Secretary of Homeland Security, was dispatched on a mission to Poland. Speaking at the CPAC conference in Rzeszów, she explicitly linked a vote for Nawrocki to US security guarantees for Poland:

    “If you (elect) a leader that will work with President Donald J. Trump, the Polish people will have a strong ally that will ensure that you will be able to fight off enemies that do not share your values. […] You will have strong borders and protect your communities and keep them safe, and ensure that your citizens are respected every single day. […] You will continue to have a U.S. presence here, a military presence. And you will have equipment that is American-made, that is high quality.”

    “Fort Trump”, that is how the outgoing President Andrzej Duda named the US military base financed by Poland after a bilateral agreement was signed with Donald Trump during his first term in office, in 2018. Similarly, the US House Committee on Foreign Affairs sent a letter to the President of the European Commission accusing her of applying “double standards”, pointing out that EU funds had been blocked when the PiS was in power, and claiming that European money had been used to influence the outcome of the Polish presidential election in favour of Trzaskowski. The letter was posted online on the State Department website. Prioritising the transatlantic link at the expense of strengthening Europe was one of the issues at stake in the Warsaw presidential election.

    CPAC is playing a significant role in building a Trumpist national-populist network based on rejecting the “liberal hegemony” established in the post-1989 era, regaining sovereignty from the EU, and defending conservative values against a “decadent” Europe. Beyond the Polish presidential election, the goal seems clear: to divide Europeans and weaken them at a time when the transatlantic relationship is being redefined.

    Jacques Rupnik ne travaille pas, ne conseille pas, ne possède pas de parts, ne reçoit pas de fonds d’une organisation qui pourrait tirer profit de cet article, et n’a déclaré aucune autre affiliation que son organisme de recherche.

    – ref. Poland, divided between Trump and the EU – https://theconversation.com/poland-divided-between-trump-and-the-eu-260007

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Informed financing for a riskier future: Building resilience in the age of extremes

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Time

    8:30 – 10:00 am (CET)

    About

    This high-level event will highlight the urgency of risk-informed financial governance, and foster dialogue among key stakeholders on how to scale up support for countries most in need for the implementation of the International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4) outcome. The event will:

    1. Promote the integration of disaster and climate risk into national planning and budgeting, with regards to SDG-aligned frameworks including Integrated National Financing Frameworks (INFFs).

    2. Share good practices and success stories from governments, financial institutions, and development partners;

    3. Present the goals, structure, and expected impact of an initiative to support developing countries as they establish national financial systems for DRR, and explore opportunities for collaboration and resource mobilization;

    Background

    The 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4), is scheduled to take place from 30 June to 3 July 2025 in FIBES Sevilla Exhibition and Conference Centre, Spain.

    FFD4 aspires to build a renewed global financing framework that will unlock greater volumes of capital at a lower cost. In Sevilla, and through a renewed global financing framework, leaders are taking action to deliver an SDG investment push and to reform the international financial architecture to enable the transformative change that the world urgently needs.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: OLAF contributes to the uncovering of a €700 million fraud scheme with EPPO

    Source: European Anti-Fraud Offfice

    Press release no 17/2025
    PDF version 

    The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) has played a key role in supporting the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) in its criminal investigation codenamed “Calypso”, which targeted a complex scheme involving the fraudulent import of textiles, footwear, e-scooters, e-bikes, and other goods into the European Union. The investigation has already led to multiple raids across several EU Member States, with estimated damages amounting to approximately €700 million in evaded import duties and VAT.

    OLAF carries out EU-wide administrative investigations by combining operational activities with advanced data analysis, digital tools, and systematic information exchange with customs authorities across EU Member States and third countries. This coordinated approach is further strengthened by the expertise provided by the EU industry.

    By leveraging all these resources, OLAF is able to detect patterns of potential fraud and irregularities. It then alerts the relevant customs authorities so they can implement targeted controls, preventive measures, and corrective actions to disrupt fraudulent activities and safeguard the EU’s financial interests.

    OLAF conducted a comprehensive analysis of trade flows of e-bikes previously identified as suspected of being illegally introduced into EU. OLAF also conducted a detailed examination of sales activities on online platforms, marketing e-bike brands suspected of being linked to customs fraud.

    This analytical work enabled OLAF to trace the distribution chain and identify multiple warehouses used to supply e-bikes to consumers across the EU. Coordinated inspections carried out by OLAF and customs authorities of EU Member States resulted in the seizure of a significant number of electric bicycles in several EU countries. For a number of consignments, links could be made with the Port of Piraeus in Greece. 

    OLAF was able to establish the amounts of import duties and VAT evaded in the EU to facilitate the administrative recovery and the adoption of possible precautionary measures. OLAF reported this modus operandi to the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) and provided extensive documentary evidence indicating possible criminal acts for further investigation.

    “This case shows how administrative and criminal investigations can work hand in hand to protect the EU’s financial interests,” said Ville Itälä, Director-General of OLAF. “OLAF’s ability to analyse trade patterns and detect fraud risks across borders was key to uncovering this network. It is a strong example of the results we can achieve through cooperation.”

    Read the press release of the EPPO

    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)
    https://anti-fraud.ec.europa.eu
    LinkedIn: European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF)
    X: x.com/EUAntiFraud
    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 –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: OLAF contributes to the uncovering of a €700 million fraud scheme with EPPO

    Source: European Anti-Fraud Offfice

    Press release no 17/2025
    PDF version 

    The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) has played a key role in supporting the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) in its criminal investigation codenamed “Calypso”, which targeted a complex scheme involving the fraudulent import of textiles, footwear, e-scooters, e-bikes, and other goods into the European Union. The investigation has already led to multiple raids across several EU Member States, with estimated damages amounting to approximately €700 million in evaded import duties and VAT.

    OLAF carries out EU-wide administrative investigations by combining operational activities with advanced data analysis, digital tools, and systematic information exchange with customs authorities across EU Member States and third countries. This coordinated approach is further strengthened by the expertise provided by the EU industry.

    By leveraging all these resources, OLAF is able to detect patterns of potential fraud and irregularities. It then alerts the relevant customs authorities so they can implement targeted controls, preventive measures, and corrective actions to disrupt fraudulent activities and safeguard the EU’s financial interests.

    OLAF conducted a comprehensive analysis of trade flows of e-bikes previously identified as suspected of being illegally introduced into EU. OLAF also conducted a detailed examination of sales activities on online platforms, marketing e-bike brands suspected of being linked to customs fraud.

    This analytical work enabled OLAF to trace the distribution chain and identify multiple warehouses used to supply e-bikes to consumers across the EU. Coordinated inspections carried out by OLAF and customs authorities of EU Member States resulted in the seizure of a significant number of electric bicycles in several EU countries. For a number of consignments, links could be made with the Port of Piraeus in Greece. 

    OLAF was able to establish the amounts of import duties and VAT evaded in the EU to facilitate the administrative recovery and the adoption of possible precautionary measures. OLAF reported this modus operandi to the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) and provided extensive documentary evidence indicating possible criminal acts for further investigation.

    “This case shows how administrative and criminal investigations can work hand in hand to protect the EU’s financial interests,” said Ville Itälä, Director-General of OLAF. “OLAF’s ability to analyse trade patterns and detect fraud risks across borders was key to uncovering this network. It is a strong example of the results we can achieve through cooperation.”

    Read the press release of the EPPO

    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)
    https://anti-fraud.ec.europa.eu
    LinkedIn: European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF)
    X: x.com/EUAntiFraud
    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 –

  • DeepSeek faces expulsion from app stores in Germany

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Germany has taken steps towards blocking Chinese AI startup DeepSeek from the Apple and Google app stores due to concerns about data protection, according to a data protection authority commissioner in a statement on Friday.

    DeepSeek has been reported to the two U.S. tech giants as illegal content, said commissioner Meike Kamp, and the companies must now review the concerns and decide whether to block the app in Germany.

    “DeepSeek has not been able to provide my agency with convincing evidence that German users’ data is protected in China to a level equivalent to that in the European Union,” she said.

    “Chinese authorities have far-reaching access rights to personal data within the sphere of influence of Chinese companies,” she added.

    The move comes after Reuters exclusively reported this week that DeepSeek is aiding China’s military and intelligence operations.

    DeepSeek, which shook the technology world in January with claims that it had developed an AI model that rivaled those from U.S. firms such as ChatGPT creator OpenAI at much lower cost, says it stores numerous personal data, such as requests to the AI or uploaded files, on computers in China.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Reti to represent NZ at UN development conference

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Pacific Peoples and Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Dr Shane Reti departs this week for visits to Spain and the United Kingdom.
    In Spain, Dr Reti will represent New Zealand at the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development. 
    “The Conference is an opportunity to reaffirm New Zealand’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals at a time where the Goals, and the international development cooperation system, are facing major challenges,” Dr Reti says. 
    “An important role as Minister for Pacific Peoples will be working with Pacific partners and other Small Island Developing States to prioritise their interests at the Conference.
    “While in Seville I will meet with counterparts from across the world to discuss how shifts in donor funding, and the deteriorating geostrategic environment, are affecting our efforts to realise the 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development.”
    Dr Reti will then travel to London, United Kingdom to deepen science, innovation and technology ties.
    “Harnessing science, innovation and technology is a core pillar of the Government’s Going for Growth agenda, and the UK is a key partner for New Zealand,” Dr Reti says.
    UK and New Zealand researchers have strong collaborative relationships across a broad range of important areas such as medical and health science, physics, biological science, and engineering. 
    “While in London I will meet with counterparts to explore new areas of cooperation and ideas to reform and modernise New Zealand systems,” Dr Reti says. 
    Dr Reti will also take the opportunity to discuss approaches to census delivery with the UK. 
    New Zealand and the UK are both looking towards administrative data to support future census delivery and provide more relevant, useful, and timely information to support decision making. 
    Dr Reti departs New Zealand on Friday 27 June and returns on Sunday 6 July 2025.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Reti to represent NZ at UN development conference

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Pacific Peoples and Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Dr Shane Reti departs this week for visits to Spain and the United Kingdom.
    In Spain, Dr Reti will represent New Zealand at the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development. 
    “The Conference is an opportunity to reaffirm New Zealand’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals at a time where the Goals, and the international development cooperation system, are facing major challenges,” Dr Reti says. 
    “An important role as Minister for Pacific Peoples will be working with Pacific partners and other Small Island Developing States to prioritise their interests at the Conference.
    “While in Seville I will meet with counterparts from across the world to discuss how shifts in donor funding, and the deteriorating geostrategic environment, are affecting our efforts to realise the 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development.”
    Dr Reti will then travel to London, United Kingdom to deepen science, innovation and technology ties.
    “Harnessing science, innovation and technology is a core pillar of the Government’s Going for Growth agenda, and the UK is a key partner for New Zealand,” Dr Reti says.
    UK and New Zealand researchers have strong collaborative relationships across a broad range of important areas such as medical and health science, physics, biological science, and engineering. 
    “While in London I will meet with counterparts to explore new areas of cooperation and ideas to reform and modernise New Zealand systems,” Dr Reti says. 
    Dr Reti will also take the opportunity to discuss approaches to census delivery with the UK. 
    New Zealand and the UK are both looking towards administrative data to support future census delivery and provide more relevant, useful, and timely information to support decision making. 
    Dr Reti departs New Zealand on Friday 27 June and returns on Sunday 6 July 2025.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai confers decoration on former Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Chairman Ohashi Mitsuo

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Details
    2025-06-25
    President Lai meets Japan’s former Economic Security Minister Kobayashi Takayuki
    On the afternoon of June 25, President Lai Ching-te met with Kobayashi Takayuki, Japan’s former economic security minister and a current member of the House of Representatives. In remarks, President Lai expressed hope to combine the strengths of the democratic community to build resilient, reliable non-red supply chains, and ensure a resilient global economy and sustainable development. He also expressed hope that Taiwan and Japan can bring about the early signing of an economic partnership agreement (EPA), and that Japan will continue supporting Taiwan’s bid to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), enhancing our own bilateral partnership, as doing so would create win-win situations and further contribute to regional economic security and stability. The following is a translation of President Lai’s remarks: I welcome Representative Kobayashi back to Taiwan for another visit after seven years. During his last visit, he was with a delegation from the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) Youth Division, and we met at the Executive Yuan. I am very happy to see him again today. Representative Kobayashi has long paid close attention to matters involving economic security, technological innovation, and aerospace policy. He also made a stunning debut in last year’s LDP presidential election, showing that he is truly a rising star and an influential figure in the political sphere. With this visit, Representative Kobayashi is demonstrating support for Taiwan with concrete action, which is very meaningful. Taiwan and Japan are both part of the first island chain’s key line of defense. We thank the many Japanese prime ministers, including former Prime Ministers Abe Shinzo, Suga Yoshihide, and Kishida Fumio, as well as current Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru, for the many times they have highlighted the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait at important international venues, and for expressing opposition to the use of force or coercion to unilaterally change the status quo in the Taiwan Strait. I hope that Taiwan and Japan can engage in more cooperation and exchanges to promote peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region in all aspects. In particular, China in recent years has been actively expanding its red supply chains, which threaten the global free trade system and advanced technology markets. Taiwan hopes to combine the strengths of the democratic community to build resilient, reliable non-red supply chains. In the semiconductor industry, for example, Taiwan has excellent advanced manufacturing capabilities, while Japan plays an important role in materials, equipment, and key technologies. I am confident that, given the experience that Taiwan and Japan have in cooperating, we can build an industrial supply chain composed of democratic nations to ensure a resilient global economy and sustainable development. I hope that Taiwan and Japan can bring about the early signing of an EPA in order to deepen our bilateral trade and investment exchanges and cooperation. I also hope that Japan will continue supporting Taiwan’s bid to join the CPTPP, enhancing our own bilateral partnership, as doing so would create win-win situations and further contribute to regional economic security and stability. Taiwan and Japan are democratic partners that share the values of freedom, democracy, and respect for human rights. I firmly believe that so long as we work together, we can certainly address the challenges posed by authoritarianism, and bring prosperity and development to the Indo-Pacific region. In closing, I welcome Representative Kobayashi once again. I am certain that this visit will help enhance Taiwan-Japan exchanges and deepen our friendship. Representative Kobayashi then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for taking the time to meet with him, and noting that this was his second visit to Taiwan following a trip seven years prior, when he came with his good friend from college and then-Director of the LDP Youth Division Suzuki Keisuke, now Japan’s minister of justice. Representative Kobayashi mentioned a Japanese kanji that he is very fond of – 絆 (kizuna) – which means “deep ties of friendship.” He emphasized that a key purpose of this visit to Taiwan was to reiterate the deep ties of friendship between Taiwan and Japan. In addition to deep historical ties, he said, Taiwan and Japan also enjoy a like-minded partnership in terms of economic, personnel, and friendship-oriented exchanges. He went on to say that at the strategic level, Taiwan and Japan also have deep ties of friendship, and that for Japan, it is strategically important that Taiwan not be isolated under any circumstances. Representative Kobayashi emphasized that cooperation between Taiwan and Japan, and even cooperation among Taiwan, Japan, and the United States, are more important now than ever, and that another important focus of this visit is the non-red supply chains referred to earlier by President Lai. He said that as Japan’s first economic security minister and the person currently in charge of the LDP’s policy on economic security, he is acutely aware of the important impact of economic security on national interests, and therefore looks forward to further exchanging views regarding Taiwan’s concrete steps to build non-red supply chains. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Deputy Representative Takaba Yo.

    Details
    2025-06-16
    President Lai meets delegation led by Representative Bera, co-chair of US Congressional Taiwan Caucus
    On the morning of June 16, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Representative Ami Bera, co-chair of the US Congressional Taiwan Caucus. In remarks, President Lai thanked the representatives in Congress for actively voicing support for Taiwan and proposing numerous Taiwan-friendly initiatives to strengthen Taiwan-US ties, helping expand Taiwan’s international space and continuing to place focus on peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. The president said that we will continue to strengthen bilateral investment and industrial cooperation and create a more comprehensive environment for economic and trade exchanges to jointly enhance economic and developmental resilience. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I am delighted to meet with the delegation and welcome Congressman Bera back to the Presidential Office. Last January, he visited after the presidential election, demonstrating the steadfast backing of the US Congress for democratic Taiwan. This time, as head of a delegation of new members of the House Armed Services Committee and the Foreign Affairs Committee, he is continuing to foster US congressional support for Taiwan. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend a sincere welcome to Congressman Bera and all our esteemed guests. Over the years, staunch bipartisan US congressional backing of Taiwan has been a key force for steadily advancing our bilateral relations. I thank the representatives in Congress for actively voicing support for Taiwan and proposing numerous Taiwan-friendly initiatives, thereby strengthening Taiwan-US ties, helping expand Taiwan’s international space, and continuing to place focus on peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. I want to emphasize that Taiwan has an unwavering determination to safeguard peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Over the past year, the government and private sector have been working together to enhance Taiwan’s whole-of-society defense resilience and accelerate reform of national defense. The government is also prioritizing special budget allocations to ensure that our defense budget exceeds three percent of GDP this year. I hope that Taiwan-US security cooperation will evolve beyond military procurement to a partnership that encompasses joint research and development and joint production, further strengthening cooperation and exchange in the defense industry. Regarding industrial exchanges, last month, Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) and Minister of Economic Affairs Kuo Jyh-huei (郭智輝) each visited Texas to see firsthand Taiwan-US collaboration in AI and semiconductors. And the delegation led by Executive Yuan Secretary-General Kung Ming-hsin (龔明鑫) sent by Taiwan to this year’s SelectUSA Investment Summit in Washington, DC, was again the largest of those attending. All of this demonstrates Taiwan’s commitment to working alongside the US to create mutual prosperity. In the future, we will continue to strengthen bilateral investment and industrial cooperation. And I hope that the legislation addressing the issue of Taiwan-US double taxation will become law this year. I want to thank Congressman Bera for co-leading a joint letter last November signed by over 100 members of Congress calling for such legislation. I believe that by creating a more comprehensive environment for economic and trade exchanges, Taiwan and the US can enhance economic and developmental resilience. In closing, I thank you all for making the long journey here to advance Taiwan-US relations. Let us continue working together to promote the prosperous development of this important partnership. Congressman Bera then delivered remarks, saying that on behalf of the delegation, it is an honor for him to be here once again, it being last January that he and Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart visited and congratulated President Lai on his election victory, noting that theirs was the first congressional delegation to do so. Congressman Bera said that this is an important time, not just for the US and Taiwan relationship, but for all relationships around the world. When we look at conflicts in Europe and in the Middle East, he said, it is incumbent upon democracies to hold the peace in Asia. He emphasized that is why it is important for them to bring a delegation of members of the Foreign Affairs Committee and the Armed Services Committee, adding that he believes for all of them it is their first trip to Taiwan.  Congressman Bera said that while this is a delegation of Democratic members of Congress, in a bipartisan way all of Congress continues to support the people of Taiwan. As such, in this visit he brings support from his co-chairs on the Taiwan caucus, Congressman Díaz-Balart and Congressman Andy Barr. He also took a moment to recognize the passing of Congressman Gerald Connolly, who was a longtime friend of Taiwan and one of their co-chairs on the caucus. Congressman Bera mentioned that there is always a special bond between himself and President Lai because they are both doctors, and as doctors, their profession is about healing, keeping the peace, and making sure everybody has a bright, prosperous future. In closing, he highlighted that it is in that spirit that their delegation visits with the president. The delegation also included members of the US Congress Gabe Amo, Wesley Bell, Julie Johnson, Sarah McBride, and Johnny Olszewski.

    Details
    2025-06-13
    President Lai meets delegation led by French National Assembly Taiwan Friendship Group Chair Marie-Noëlle Battistel
    On the morning of June 12, President Lai Ching-te met a delegation led by Marie-Noëlle Battistel, chair of the French National Assembly’s Taiwan Friendship Group. In remarks, President Lai thanked the National Assembly for its long-term support for Taiwan’s international participation and for upholding security in the Taiwan Strait, helping make France the first major country in the world to enact legislation to uphold freedom of navigation in the Taiwan Strait. The president also said that exchanges and cooperation between Taiwan and France are becoming more frequent, and that he hopes this visit by the Taiwan Friendship Group will inject new momentum into Taiwan-France relations and help build closer partnerships in the economy, trade, energy, and digital security.  A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: First, I would like to welcome Chair Battistel, who is once again leading a visiting delegation. Last year, Chair Battistel co-led a delegation to attend the inauguration ceremony for myself and Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao. This is her fourth visit, and first as chair of the Taiwan Friendship Group, which makes it especially meaningful. This delegation’s visit demonstrates strong support for Taiwan, and on behalf of the people of Taiwan, I want to express my sincerest welcome and thanks. France is a pioneer in promoting free and democratic values. These are values that Taiwan cherishes and is working hard to defend. I want to express gratitude to the French Parliament for their long-term support for Taiwan’s international participation, and for upholding security in the Taiwan Strait. The French Parliament’s two chambers have continued to strongly support Taiwan, with the passage of a resolution supporting Taiwan’s participation in international organizations in 2021, as well as the passage of the seven-year Military Programming Law in 2023. This has made France the first major country in the world to enact legislation to uphold freedom of navigation in the Taiwan Strait. Through it all, the Taiwan Friendship Group has played a key role, and I want to thank all of our distinguished guests for their efforts. Over the past few years, Taiwan and France have continued to deepen cooperation in areas including the economy, technology, culture, and sports. At the Choose France summit held in Paris last month, Taiwanese and French enterprises also announced they will launch cooperation in the semiconductor and satellite fields. The VivaTech startup exhibition, now being held in France, also has many Taiwanese vendors participating. Exchanges and cooperation between Taiwan and France, whether official or people-to-people, are becoming more and more frequent. I hope that this visit by the Taiwan Friendship Group will inject new momentum into Taiwan-France relations, building closer partnerships in the economy, trade, energy, and digital security.  To address current geopolitical and economic challenges, Taiwan will continue to join forces with France and other like-minded countries to jointly safeguard peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, and contribute our concerted efforts to global prosperity and development. Once again, I want to welcome our visitors to Taiwan. I hope to continue our joint efforts to create a more prosperous future for both Taiwan and France.   Chair Battistel then delivered remarks, thanking President Lai for extending this invitation. Last year on May 20, she said, she and her delegation attended the presidential inauguration ceremony, so she was delighted to visit Taiwan once again with the French National Assembly’s Taiwan Friendship Group and bear witness to their friendship with Taiwan. Chair Battistel noted that this visit has given them an opportunity to strengthen Taiwan-France relations in areas including the economy, culture, the humanities, and diplomacy, and conduct exchanges with numerous heads of government agencies and research institutes. It has also been an opportunity, she said, to witness the importance of exchanges and cooperation with Taiwan in areas including energy, semiconductors, youth, and culture, and the impact created by important issues of mutual concern, including AI and disinformation, on the security of many countries. Chair Battistel praised Taiwan for its youth development efforts, and said that under the Taiwan Global Pathfinders Initiative, 30 Taiwanese young people have embarked on a visit to France, with itineraries including the United Nations Ocean Conference and the VivaTech exhibition, as well as the city of Toulouse, which is strategically important for the aerospace industry. Members of the group are also conducting exchanges at the French National Assembly, she said.  Chair Battistel stated that the Taiwan-France partnership is growing closer, and that she hopes to continue to strengthen bilateral exchanges and cooperation, as supporting peace for Taiwan supports peace around the world.  The delegation also included Taiwan Friendship Group Vice Chair Éric Martineau, as well as National Assembly Committee on Foreign Affairs Vice Chair Laetitia Saint-Paul and Deputies Marie-José Allemand and Claudia Rouaux. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by French Office in Taipei Deputy Director Cléa Le Cardeur.

    Details
    2025-06-05
    President Lai hosts state banquet for President Bernardo Arévalo of Republic of Guatemala  
    At noon on June 5, President Lai Ching-te hosted a state banquet at the Presidential Office for President Bernardo Arévalo of the Republic of Guatemala and his wife. In his remarks, President Lai noted that Taiwan and Guatemala have both undergone an arduous democratization process, and therefore, in face of the continuous expansion of authoritarian influence, must join hands in brotherhood and come together in solidarity to safeguard our hard-earned freedom and democracy. President Lai also expressed hope that both countries will work together and continue to deepen various exchanges and cooperation, taking a friendship that has lasted over 90 years to new heights. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: Once again, I would like to offer a warm welcome to President Arévalo and First Lady Lucrecia Peinado, who are leading this delegation to Taiwan. President Arévalo’s previous visit to Taiwan was 31 years ago. Back then, Taiwan did not have direct presidential elections, and the nation was continuing to make progress toward democratization. Today, 31 years later, Taiwan has conducted direct presidential elections eight times, with three transfers of power between political parties. On this visit, I am sure that President Arévalo will gain a deep appreciation for Taiwan’s free and democratic atmosphere.  Taiwan and Guatemala have both undergone an arduous democratization process. A little over 200 years ago, the people of Guatemala took a stand against colonial oppression, seeking national dignity and the freedom of its people. Eighty-one years ago, President Arévalo’s father, Juan José Arévalo, became Guatemala’s first democratically elected president, establishing an important foundation for subsequent democratic development.  Our two peoples have democracy in their blood. Both know the value of freedom and democracy and are willing to take a stand for those values. Therefore, in face of the continuous expansion of authoritarian influence, our two countries must join hands in brotherhood to respond to threats and challenges, and come together in solidarity to safeguard our hard-earned freedom and democracy. I hope that both countries will work together to continue to deepen various exchanges and cooperation, taking a friendship that has lasted over 90 years to new heights. I hope that on this visit, in addition to gaining a deeper understanding of Taiwan’s political, economic, and social development, President Arévalo can also reacquaint himself with the democratic vitality and cultural diversity of Taiwan by sampling various gourmet delicacies and once again experiencing the beauty of our scenery and warmth of our people. Guatemala is a very beautiful country. In the future, I hope to have a chance to personally experience that beauty, explore Mayan civilization, and savor local Guatemalan coffee. In closing, I wish the visiting delegation a smooth and successful trip, and beautiful, unforgettable memories. May President Arévalo enjoy the best of health, and may the diplomatic friendship between our two countries endure. President Arévalo then delivered remarks, stating that at different times and by different means, the people of Taiwan and Guatemala have relentlessly sought to defend freedom and democracy. We share the same expectations, he said, and are walking the right path amid today’s complex international circumstances.  President Arévalo stated that Taiwan and Guatemala are true democratic nations, where the government’s goal is to serve all the people. He noted that this is far from easy under current circumstances, as many authoritarian regimes use their long-term hold on power to safeguard the interests of select groups and neglect the wellbeing of the population as a whole. President Arévalo said that last week Guatemala commemorated the 40th anniversary of its constitution, which was enacted in 1985 and is Guatemala’s ultimate guide, setting the foundation for democracy and clearly outlining the path ahead. He said that over the past 40 years, Guatemala has continued to follow the democratic blueprint established by the constitution and end the civil war so that the nation could make the transition to real democracy. Although more than a few ambitious people have attempted to destroy that process from within, he noted, the people of Guatemala have never given up the pursuit of democracy as an ideal. President Arévalo stated that our two sides’ coming together here is due to such shared values as freedom and democracy as well as the idea of serving all the people. He underlined that the governments of both countries will continue to work hard and provide mutual support to smooth out each other’s path of democracy, freedom, and justice. President Arévalo emphasized that the government of Guatemala will always be Taiwan’s ally, and that he firmly believes Taiwan is Guatemala’s most reliable partner on the path of democracy and economic prosperity and development. The president said he hopes this visit will be the first step towards setting a new course for the governments and peoples of both countries. Also in attendance at the banquet were Guatemala Minister of Foreign Affairs Carlos Ramiro Martínez, Minister of the Economy Gabriela García, and Guatemala Ambassador Luis Raúl Estévez López.  

    Details
    2025-06-05
    President Lai welcomes President Bernardo Arévalo of Republic of Guatemala with military honors  
    On the morning of June 5, President Lai Ching-te welcomed with full military honors President Bernardo Arévalo of the Republic of Guatemala and his wife, who are leading a delegation of cabinet members visiting Taiwan for the first time, demonstrating the deep and enduring alliance between our nations. In remarks, President Lai noted that over the past few years, bilateral cooperation between Taiwan and Guatemala has grown closer and more diverse, and said that moving forward, based on a foundation of mutual assistance for mutual benefit, we will continue to promote programs in line with international trends, spurring prosperity and development in both our nations. The military honors ceremony began at 10:30 a.m. in the Entrance Hall of the Presidential Office. After a 21-gun salute and the playing of the two countries’ national anthems, President Lai and President Arévalo each delivered remarks. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: Today, President Arévalo and First Lady Lucrecia Peinado are leading a delegation of cabinet members visiting Taiwan for the first time, demonstrating the deep and enduring alliance between our nations. On behalf of the people and government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), I want to extend my sincerest welcome. Last year, our two countries celebrated the 90th anniversary of diplomatic ties, providing mutual support all along the way. Especially over the past few years, bilateral cooperation has grown closer and more diverse. We have a long record of remarkable results, whether in terms of medicine and public health, education and culture, technological cooperation, or economic and trade exchanges. Moving forward, based on a foundation of mutual assistance for mutual benefit, Taiwan and Guatemala will continue to promote programs in line with international trends. We will continue to strengthen exchange and cooperation for young people, as well as scholarship programs, and actively cultivate high-tech and information and communications technology industry talent, spurring prosperity and development in both our nations. Although separated by a great distance, the peoples of both countries are closely connected by their ideals and values. I am confident that with President Arévalo’s support, bilateral exchanges and cooperation will become closer and more diverse, beginning a very promising new chapter. I wish the visiting delegation a smooth and successful trip. President Arévalo then delivered remarks, saying that on behalf of the government and people of Guatemala, he is honored to visit the Republic of China (Taiwan), this beautiful nation, and to receive full military honors, which reflects the mutual respect between our two nations as well as our solid friendship. Especially as this state visit comes as we celebrate 90 years of formal diplomatic ties, he said, he has brought the foreign minister, economics minister, private secretary to the president, and social communication secretary as members of his delegation, in the hope of our ties embarking on a new chapter. President Arévalo said that Guatemala-Taiwan ties have in recent years been growing steadily on a foundation of mutual understanding and cooperation, making significant progress, and that our peoples have also cultivated sincere friendships and cooperative relationships across many fields. Our nations are especially promoting public health, education, agricultural technology, and infrastructure, he said, key fields which are conducive to economic and social development. He expressed his hope that on such good foundations of the past, we can further strengthen our bilateral ties for the future. President Arévalo stated that through this state visit they not only want to reaffirm the good bilateral ties between our nations, but that they also hope to define a trajectory for the future of our cooperation in the direction of expanding economic cooperation, building economic and trade alliances, and facilitating investment to foster a Taiwan-Guatemala relationship that benefits both peoples. He then expressed gratitude to the people of Taiwan for helping Guatemala over the past 90 years and reaffirmed the unwavering support of Guatemala for the Republic of China (Taiwan). On the occasion of this visit, he said, he hopes to extend a friendly hand to the people of Taiwan, adding that he looks forward to our nations continuing to take major steps forward on the road of mutual assistance and prosperity. Also in attendance at the welcome ceremony were Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Ambassador Andrea Clare Bowman, and members of the foreign diplomatic corps in Taiwan.  

    Details
    2025-05-20
    President Lai interviewed by Nippon Television and Yomiuri TV
    In a recent interview on Nippon Television’s news zero program, President Lai Ching-te responded to questions from host Mr. Sakurai Sho and Yomiuri TV Shanghai Bureau Chief Watanabe Masayo on topics including reflections on his first year in office, cross-strait relations, China’s military threats, Taiwan-United States relations, and Taiwan-Japan relations. The interview was broadcast on the evening of May 19. During the interview, President Lai stated that China intends to change the world’s rules-based international order, and that if Taiwan were invaded, global supply chains would be disrupted. Therefore, he said, Taiwan will strengthen its national defense, prevent war by preparing for war, and achieve the goal of peace. The president also noted that Taiwan’s purpose for developing drones is based on national security and industrial needs, and that Taiwan hopes to collaborate with Japan. He then reiterated that China’s threats are an international problem, and expressed hope to work together with the US, Japan, and others in the global democratic community to prevent China from starting a war. Following is the text of the questions and the president’s responses: Q: How do you feel as you are about to round out your first year in office? President Lai: When I was young, I was determined to practice medicine and save lives. When I left medicine to go into politics, I was determined to transform Taiwan. And when I was sworn in as president on May 20 last year, I was determined to strengthen the nation. Time flies, and it has already been a year. Although the process has been very challenging, I am deeply honored to be a part of it. I am also profoundly grateful to our citizens for allowing me the opportunity to give back to our country. The future will certainly be full of more challenges, but I will do everything I can to unite the people and continue strengthening the nation. That is how I am feeling now. Q: We are now coming up on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, and over this period, we have often heard that conflict between Taiwan and the mainland is imminent. Do you personally believe that a cross-strait conflict could happen? President Lai: The international community is very much aware that China intends to replace the US and change the world’s rules-based international order, and annexing Taiwan is just the first step. So, as China’s military power grows stronger, some members of the international community are naturally on edge about whether a cross-strait conflict will break out. The international community must certainly do everything in its power to avoid a conflict in the Taiwan Strait; there is too great a cost. Besides causing direct disasters to both Taiwan and China, the impact on the global economy would be even greater, with estimated losses of US$10 trillion from war alone – that is roughly 10 percent of the global GDP. Additionally, 20 percent of global shipping passes through the Taiwan Strait and surrounding waters, so if a conflict breaks out in the strait, other countries including Japan and Korea would suffer a grave impact. For Japan and Korea, a quarter of external transit passes through the Taiwan Strait and surrounding waters, and a third of the various energy resources and minerals shipped back from other countries pass through said areas. If Taiwan were invaded, global supply chains would be disrupted, and therefore conflict in the Taiwan Strait must be avoided. Such a conflict is indeed avoidable. I am very thankful to Prime Minister of Japan Ishiba Shigeru and former Prime Ministers Abe Shinzo, Suga Yoshihide, and Kishida Fumio, as well as US President Donald Trump and former President Joe Biden, and the other G7 leaders, for continuing to emphasize at international venues that peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait are essential components for global security and prosperity. When everyone in the global democratic community works together, stacking up enough strength to make China’s objectives unattainable or to make the cost of invading Taiwan too high for it to bear, a conflict in the strait can naturally be avoided. Q: As you said, President Lai, maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is also very important for other countries. How can war be avoided? What sort of countermeasures is Taiwan prepared to take to prevent war? President Lai: As Mr. Sakurai mentioned earlier, we are coming up on the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. There are many lessons we can take from that war. First is that peace is priceless, and war has no winners. From the tragedies of WWII, there are lessons that humanity should learn. We must pursue peace, and not start wars blindly, as that would be a major disaster for humanity. In other words, we must be determined to safeguard peace. The second lesson is that we cannot be complacent toward authoritarian powers. If you give them an inch, they will take a mile. They will keep growing, and eventually, not only will peace be unattainable, but war will be inevitable. The third lesson is why WWII ended: It ended because different groups joined together in solidarity. Taiwan, Japan, and the Indo-Pacific region are all directly subjected to China’s threats, so we hope to be able to join together in cooperation. This is why we proposed the Four Pillars of Peace action plan. First, we will strengthen our national defense. Second, we will strengthen economic resilience. Third is standing shoulder to shoulder with the democratic community to demonstrate the strength of deterrence. Fourth is that as long as China treats Taiwan with parity and dignity, Taiwan is willing to conduct exchanges and cooperate with China, and seek peace and mutual prosperity. These four pillars can help us avoid war and achieve peace. That is to say, Taiwan hopes to achieve peace through strength, prevent war by preparing for war, keeping war from happening and pursuing the goal of peace. Q: Regarding drones, everyone knows that recently, Taiwan has been actively researching, developing, and introducing drones. Why do you need to actively research, develop, and introduce new drones at this time? President Lai: This is for two purposes. The first is to meet national security needs. The second is to meet industrial development needs. Because Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines are all part of the first island chain, and we are all democratic nations, we cannot be like an authoritarian country like China, which has an unlimited national defense budget. In this kind of situation, island nations such as Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines should leverage their own technologies to develop national defense methods that are asymmetric and utilize unmanned vehicles. In particular, from the Russo-Ukrainian War, we see that Ukraine has successfully utilized unmanned vehicles to protect itself and prevent Russia from unlimited invasion. In other words, the Russo-Ukrainian War has already proven the importance of drones. Therefore, the first purpose of developing drones is based on national security needs. Second, the world has already entered the era of smart technology. Whether generative, agentic, or physical, AI will continue to develop. In the future, cars and ships will also evolve into unmanned vehicles and unmanned boats, and there will be unmanned factories. Drones will even be able to assist with postal deliveries, or services like Uber, Uber Eats, and foodpanda, or agricultural irrigation and pesticide spraying. Therefore, in the future era of comprehensive smart technology, developing unmanned vehicles is a necessity. Taiwan, based on industrial needs, is actively planning the development of drones and unmanned vehicles. I would like to take this opportunity to express Taiwan’s hope to collaborate with Japan in the unmanned vehicle industry. Just as we do in the semiconductor industry, where Japan has raw materials, equipment, and technology, and Taiwan has wafer manufacturing, our two countries can cooperate. Japan is a technological power, and Taiwan also has significant technological strengths. If Taiwan and Japan work together, we will not only be able to safeguard peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and security in the Indo-Pacific region, but it will also be very helpful for the industrial development of both countries. Q: The drones you just described probably include examples from the Russo-Ukrainian War. Taiwan and China are separated by the Taiwan Strait. Do our drones need to have cross-sea flight capabilities? President Lai: Taiwan does not intend to counterattack the mainland, and does not intend to invade any country. Taiwan’s drones are meant to protect our own nation and territory. Q: Former President Biden previously stated that US forces would assist Taiwan’s defense in the event of an attack. President Trump, however, has yet to clearly state that the US would help defend Taiwan. Do you think that in such an event, the US would help defend Taiwan? Or is Taiwan now trying to persuade the US? President Lai: Former President Biden and President Trump have answered questions from reporters. Although their responses were different, strong cooperation with Taiwan under the Biden administration has continued under the Trump administration; there has been no change. During President Trump’s first term, cooperation with Taiwan was broader and deeper compared to former President Barack Obama’s terms. After former President Biden took office, cooperation with Taiwan increased compared to President Trump’s first term. Now, during President Trump’s second term, cooperation with Taiwan is even greater than under former President Biden. Taiwan-US cooperation continues to grow stronger, and has not changed just because President Trump and former President Biden gave different responses to reporters. Furthermore, the Trump administration publicly stated that in the future, the US will shift its strategic focus from Europe to the Indo-Pacific. The US secretary of defense even publicly stated that the primary mission of the US is to prevent China from invading Taiwan, maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific, and thus maintain world peace. There is a saying in Taiwan that goes, “Help comes most to those who help themselves.” Before asking friends and allies for assistance in facing threats from China, Taiwan must first be determined and prepared to defend itself. This is Taiwan’s principle, and we are working in this direction, making all the necessary preparations to safeguard the nation. Q: I would like to ask you a question about Taiwan-Japan relations. After the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, you made an appeal to give Japan a great deal of assistance and care. In particular, you visited Sendai to offer condolences. Later, you also expressed condolences and concern after the earthquakes in Aomori and Kumamoto. What are your expectations for future Taiwan-Japan exchanges and development? President Lai: I come from Tainan, and my constituency is in Tainan. Tainan has very deep ties with Japan, and of course, Taiwan also has deep ties with Japan. However, among Taiwan’s 22 counties and cities, Tainan has the deepest relationship with Japan. I sincerely hope that both of you and your teams will have an opportunity to visit Tainan. I will introduce Tainan’s scenery, including architecture from the era of Japanese rule, Tainan’s cuisine, and unique aspects of Tainan society, and you can also see lifestyles and culture from the Showa era.  The Wushantou Reservoir in Tainan was completed by engineer Mr. Hatta Yoichi from Kanazawa, Japan and the team he led to Tainan after he graduated from then-Tokyo Imperial University. It has nearly a century of history and is still in use today. This reservoir, along with the 16,000-km-long Chianan Canal, transformed the 150,000-hectare Chianan Plain into Taiwan’s premier rice-growing area. It was that foundation in agriculture that enabled Taiwan to develop industry and the technology sector of today. The reservoir continues to supply water to Tainan Science Park. It is used by residents of Tainan, the agricultural sector, and industry, and even the technology sector in Xinshi Industrial Park, as well as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company. Because of this, the people of Tainan are deeply grateful for Mr. Hatta and very friendly toward the people of Japan. A major earthquake, the largest in 50 years, struck Tainan on February 6, 2016, resulting in significant casualties. As mayor of Tainan at the time, I was extremely grateful to then-Prime Minister Abe, who sent five Japanese officials to the disaster site in Tainan the day after the earthquake. They were very thoughtful and asked what kind of assistance we needed from the Japanese government. They offered to provide help based on what we needed. I was deeply moved, as former Prime Minister Abe showed such care, going beyond the formality of just sending supplies that we may or may not have actually needed. Instead, the officials asked what we needed and then provided assistance based on those needs, which really moved me. Similarly, when the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011 or the later Kumamoto earthquakes struck, the people of Tainan, under my leadership, naturally and dutifully expressed their support. Even earlier, when central Taiwan was hit by a major earthquake in 1999, Japan was the first country to deploy a rescue team to the disaster area. On February 6, 2018, after a major earthquake in Hualien, former Prime Minister Abe appeared in a video holding up a message of encouragement he had written in calligraphy saying “Remain strong, Taiwan.” All of Taiwan was deeply moved. Over the years, Taiwan and Japan have supported each other when earthquakes struck, and have forged bonds that are family-like, not just neighborly. This is truly valuable. In the future, I hope Taiwan and Japan can be like brothers, and that the peoples of Taiwan and Japan can treat one another like family. If Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem; if Japan has a problem, then Taiwan has a problem. By caring for and helping each other, we can face various challenges and difficulties, and pursue a brighter future. Q: President Lai, you just used the phrase “If Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem.” In the event that China attempts to invade Taiwan by force, what kind of response measures would you hope the US military and Japan’s Self-Defense Forces take? President Lai: As I just mentioned, annexing Taiwan is only China’s first step. Its ultimate objective is to change the rules-based international order. That being the case, China’s threats are an international problem. So, I would very much hope to work together with the US, Japan, and others in the global democratic community to prevent China from starting a war – prevention, after all, is more important than cure.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Home of ‘Devil’s Punch Bowl’ to become new National Nature Reserve

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Home of ‘Devil’s Punch Bowl’ to become new National Nature Reserve

    • Sand lizards, nightjars and natterjack toads are among the litany of species that people can enjoy at new Wealden Heaths National Nature Reserve in Surrey

    Hampton Estate heather with stonechat

    • Nature reserve declared at the landscape that inspired the likes of Tennyson and Conan Doyle, as well as its folkloric origins as the home of Thor.

    • This marks the 9th National Nature Reserve to launch as part of the King’s Series of National Nature Reserves, which will see 25 reserves created or extended by 2027

    A landscape in Surrey beloved by lizards and literary greats and home to an area known as the Devil’s Punch Bowl, is to become the latest National Nature Reserve.

    The Wealden Heaths National Nature Reserve, in the heart of the Surrey countryside and on the doorstep of more than a quarter of a million people, has today (Friday 27th June) been declared by Natural England the 9th National Nature Reserve in the King’s Series.

    This new reserve is a collaboration between nine partners; Natural England, RSPB, National Trust, Surrey Wildlife Trust, Hampton Estate (private farming estate), Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust, Waverley Borough Council, Surrey County Council and Forestry England, with further support from the Surrey Hills National Landscape. 

    The reserve has secured its status as a haven for wildlife, ensuring that it can provide a home for rare species such as Nightjars, Sand Lizards, Adders and Natterjack Toads into the future and an area of 2,765ha of greenspace accessible by hundreds of thousands of people.

    Wealden Heaths National Nature Reserve stretches across an area around three times that of Richmond Park, boasting a rich mix of open dry and wet heath, acidic grassland, regenerating woodland, and scrubby heath.

    Heathland habitats are incredibly important for a range of species, and popular with walkers, cyclists and riders. However, heathlands in England have declined by around 80% in the last two centuries, making this declaration vitally important for the survival of these precious places.

    The exceptional nature on display in this area, alongside its easy connections with London mean it already sees thousands of visitors each year, and its declaration as a National Nature Reserve means that future generations will continue to be able to connect with nature in the idyllic surroundings of the reserve. The reserve also includes a nature friendly farmed estate, adding to its potential to boost the local economy along with visitor spend.

    Nature Minister Mary Creagh said: 

    “Britain is a nation of nature lovers – proud of our iconic landscapes and charismatic wildlife.

    “This new reserve offers wonderful opportunities for people to experience the outdoors and spot rare wildlife in a place which has been a source of cultural inspiration for centuries.

    “This Government is committed to turning the tide on nature’s decline after years of neglect. New National Nature Reserves deliver on our promise to improve access to nature and protect nature-rich habitats, as well as boosting the local economy in line with our Plan for Change.”

    Marian Spain, Chief Executive of Natural England said:  

    “The beautiful atmospheric landscape has had a huge influence in culture over the centuries, from folklore to poetry. Its new status as a National Nature Reserve will ensure future generations continue to be inspired.

    “There is a wealth of species here, many of which are very rare, and efforts to maintain the vital habitats in this area will help these plants and animals to thrive again. Its network of tracks – including “Britain’s Favourite Path” – means it is already incredibly popular with local people and visitors from nearby London, offering a much needed vast open space for everybody to enjoy the connection with nature we all need.”

    This landscape is also widely known as the home of The Devil’s Punchbowl, a dramatic natural amphitheatre in the heathlands near Hindhead which is steeped in legend. It is said to have been formed when the Devil scooped up earth to throw at Thor, which some say is how the nearby area of Thursley got its name.  

    The area has provided inspiration to a range of literary greats through the years, from Alfred Lord Tennyson to Arthur Conan Doyle. The reserve is home to Waggoners Well, where Tennyson wrote ‘Flower in the Crannied Wall’, which reflects on the connection between nature, humans, and the divine. 

    The area has retained its popularity and is still a destination for nature lovers, boasting the Thursley Common Boardwalk, which has been named ‘Britain’s Favourite Path’ by the Ramblers Association. This declaration will mean that this bustling area of nature just 45 minutes away from London will be managed and accessible for years to come.

    This area has already benefitted from the Heathland Connections Nature Recovery Project, which provided funding from Defra and Natural England. It is an ambitious project working with partners, including wildlife charities and private landowners to enhance, restore and connect the special habitats found in the westernmost section of the Surrey Hills National Landscape.

    The launch of the new National Nature Reserve directly supports the government’s commitment to restore and protect our natural world by expanding nature-rich habitats where people can explore and wildlife can thrive.  

    This is the 9th reserve to be launched as part of the King’s Series of National Nature Reserves, which will leave a lasting public legacy for people and nature by creating or extending 25 National Nature Reserves by 2027. 

    NOTES TO EDITORS

    ·       This new 2,766 hectare Wealden Heaths NNR combines the existing Thursley NNR (325ha) with 2,440ha of partner-managed land, of which 1,784ha is designated as Site of Special Scientific Interest.  

    ·       Wealden Heaths also includes over 900ha (921) of non-SSSI land, the largest area of any NNR with previously undesignated land being formally brought into conservation management 

    ·       The declaration of Wealden Heaths brings the total area of NNRs in England to over 115,000ha across 223 NNRs. 

    ·       Images of the NNR can be found here: Wealden Heaths NNR images – Google Drive 

    QUOTES PACK

     #### Molly Biddell of Hampton Estate, said

    “We are so proud and excited to be a part of Wealden Heaths National Nature Reserve, this recognition reflects how precious our Surrey heathlands are, and how important it is that as land managers we all work together to protect these unique habitats. At Hampton Estate, we feel privileged to be managing Puttenham Common as part of our farming business, using conservation grazing, woodland management and shared stewardship to increase biodiversity and create a nature-loving community. We look forward to working alongside our partners to ensure the Wealden Heaths continue to thrive as a living, working landscape that inspires.”

    Councillor Steve Williams, Waverley Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Environment and Sustainability, said:

    “The Wealden National Nature Reserve (NNR) is a great community asset, offering a unique space for residents to connect with nature, learn about biodiversity, and enjoy outdoor activities.  Waverley Borough Council is passionate about preserving our natural heritage and providing an opportunity for our residents to enjoy the natural resources in our borough.  The NNR enhances the quality of life for local residents and attracts visitors, contributing to the local economy and promoting knowledge of our natural world.  We are committed to maintaining and improving this invaluable resource for current and future generations.”

    Rob Fairbanks, Director of the Surrey Hills National Landscape said:

    “I am thrilled to see the launch of the Wealden Heaths National Nature Reserve.  This is a transformative designation to create a bigger, better, and more joined up approach to heathland restoration within the Surrey Hills National Landscape.

    “This milestone is a testament to the robust partnership driving it, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Natural England for empowering us to address the biodiversity crisis and a flourishing future for our rare and rich heathland habitats.”

    Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust (ARC) CEO, Dr Tony Gent said:

    “At ARC, we believe that collaboration is key to effective landscape-scale conservation. By working together rather than in isolated pockets, we can share resources, knowledge, and communicate more consistently – delivering greater impact for wildlife and habitats.”

    “The creation of the new Partnership National Nature Reserve in Surrey offers a powerful opportunity to strengthen partnerships with fellow land managers. Together, we can better support native amphibian and reptile populations across the region. By aligning conservation goals and underpinning them with robust monitoring, we can develop a shared agenda for conserving these species — while also identifying and addressing areas where biodiversity is in decline.”

    Surrey Wildlife Trust’s Director of Reserves Management, James Herd said:

    “With nature under unprecedented pressure, its essential that habitats are connected and protected not just on a local, but on a landscape level.  The creation of this reserve represents an encouraging step towards this goal, and also illustrates the power of partnership working between national and local policymakers, communities and conservationists.”

    Stephanie Fudge, National Trust General Manager for the Surrey Hills said:

    “The Wealden Heaths National Nature Reserve brings together a patchwork of heathlands owned by different landowners, and by joining up these habitats we aim to benefit species such as nightjar, woodlark and sand lizards by giving them space to move and to find food or shelter in times of extreme weather such as flooding or drought.

    “We can do much more for nature as a collective, rather than on our own. As part of this new NNR, 1660 hectares is National Trust land including heathland at Hindhead Commons and the Devil’s Punch Bowl. Working together we want to ensure that wildlife in these special habitats can flourish, and improve access so that people living in the South East can enjoy the vast array of wildlife on their doorstep for many generations to come.”

    Surrey County Councillor Marisa Heath, Cabinet Member for Environment:

    “The creation of the Wealden Heaths National Nature Reserve (NNR) is a beacon of hope for both nature and people. Not only is it an important step in securing the future for the rare species that call this landscape home, but it also provides a sanctuary for people, offering vital green spaces that contribute to our health and wellbeing. “

    I would like to thank Natural England and the eight other landowners and stakeholders that have worked in partnership to deliver this National Nature Reserve, and I look forward to a more resilient and thriving Surrey landscape that will benefit generations to come.”

    South Forest Management Director, Craig Harrison from Forestry England, said:

    “We are delighted to be part of this super NNR and for Crooksbury Common to be included. This is great recognition of the importance of heathlands and working at a landscape-scale this partnership will allow us to share our expertise to build a better, more joined-up landscape for nature.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: REPORT on the 2023 and 2024 Commission reports on North Macedonia – A10-0118/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    MOTION FOR A EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT RESOLUTION

    on the 2023 and 2024 Commission reports on North Macedonia

    (2025/2021(INI))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to the Stabilisation and Association Agreement between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of North Macedonia, of the other part[1],

    – having regard to North Macedonia’s application for membership of the European Union, submitted on 22 March 2004,

    – having regard to the European Council decision of 16 December 2005 to grant North Macedonia EU candidate country status,

    – having regard to the European Council conclusions of 19-20 June 2003, including the annex thereto entitled ‘The Thessaloniki agenda for the Western Balkans: Moving towards European integration’,

    – having regard to Regulation (EU) 2021/1529 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 September 2021 establishing the Instrument for Pre-Accession assistance (IPA III)[2],

    – having regard to Regulation (EU) 2024/1449 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 May 2024 on establishing the Reform and Growth Facility for the Western Balkans[3],

    – having regard to the Commission communication of 5 February 2020 entitled ‘Enhancing the accession process – A credible EU perspective for the Western Balkans’ (COM(2020)0057),

    – having regard to the Commission communication of 8 November 2023 entitled ‘2023 Communication on EU Enlargement Policy’ (COM(2023)0690), accompanied by the Commission staff working document entitled ‘North Macedonia 2023 Report’ (SWD(2023)0693),

    – having regard to the Commission communication of 8 November 2023 entitled ‘New growth plan for the Western Balkans’ (COM(2023)0691),

    – having regard to the Commission communication of 20 March 2024 on pre-enlargement reforms and policy reviews (COM(2024)0146),

    – having regard to the Commission communication of 24 July 2024 entitled ‘2024 Rule of Law Report’ (COM(2024)0800), accompanied by the Commission staff working document entitled ‘2024 Rule of Law Report – Country Chapter on the rule of law situation in North Macedonia’ (SWD(2024)0830),

    – having regard to the Commission communication of 30 October 2024 entitled ‘2024 Communication on EU enlargement policy’ (COM(2024)0690), accompanied by the Commission staff working document entitled ‘North Macedonia 2024 Report’ (SWD(2024)0693),

    – having regard to the Reform Agenda of North Macedonia as approved by the Commission under the Reform and Growth Facility on 23 October 2024,

    – having regard to the declarations of the EU-Western Balkans summits of 13 December 2023 and of 18 December 2024 in Brussels as well as the declarations of the EU-Western Balkans summits held in Sofia, Zagreb and Brdo pri Kranju in 2018, 2020 and 2021 respectively, and the Declaration on the Common Regional Market and the Declaration on the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans agreed on 10 November 2020 at the Sofia Summit within the Berlin Process,

    – having regard to the Council conclusions of 18 July 2022 on Enlargement – North Macedonia and Albania  and the Council conclusions on Enlargement of 17 December 2024,

    – having regard to the final report of 23 September 2024 of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) Election Observation Mission on North Macedonia’s presidential election on 24 April 2024 and parliamentary elections on 8 May 2024,

    – having regard to the Berlin Process launched on 28 August 2014,

    – having regard to the Treaty of friendship, good neighbourliness and cooperation between Bulgaria and North Macedonia, signed on 1 August 2017 and ratified in January 2018;

    – having regard to the Final Agreement for the settlement of the differences as described in the United Nations Security Council resolutions 817 (1993) and 845 (1993), the termination of the Interim Accord of 1995, and the establishment of a strategic partnership between Greece and North Macedonia, agreed on 17 June 2018, also known as the Prespa Agreement,

    – having regard to the joint staff working document entitled ‘Objectives and Indicators to frame the implementation of the Gender Action Plan III (2021-25)’ (SWD(2020)0284) accompanying the joint communication of the Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy of 25 November 2020 entitled ’EU Gender Action Plan (GAP) III – An ambitions vision for gender equality and women’s empowerment in EU external action (JOIN(2020)0017), as well as the Country Level Implementation Plan (CLIP) for North Macedonia,

    – having regard to the 2023 European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI) Report on North Macedonia, adopted on 29 June 2023 and published on 20 September 2023,

    – having regard to the declaration and joint recommendations adopted at the 23rd meeting of the EU-North Macedonia Joint Parliamentary Committee, held on 27 and 28 February 2025 in Skopje,

    – having regard to its previous resolutions on North Macedonia, and in particular its resolution of 24 October 2019 on opening accession negotiations with North Macedonia and Albania[4],

    – having regard to Rule 55 of its Rules of Procedure,

    – having regard to the report of the Committee on Foreign Affairs (A10-0118/2025),

    A. whereas North Macedonia has held EU candidate country status since 2005 and successfully completed the screening process in December 2023;

    B. whereas the aspirations of citizens of North Macedonia to become part of the EU have led to progress in terms of democracy and socio-economic reforms, while the EU accession process continues to experience regrettable delays for various reasons;

    C. whereas the EU has mobilised approximately EUR 210 million in macro-financial assistance loans since 2020, aimed at stabilising the Macedonian economy, aiding its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and accelerating its reform progress;

    D. whereas North Macedonia is a partner that is aligned with the EU’s common foreign and security policy in the vast majority of cases and has played a constructive role in the region; whereas North Macedonia’s recent abstention from United Nations General Assembly Resolution ES-11/7 of 24 February 2025 on Ukraine and its co-sponsorship of an alternative resolution led by the United States indicates an unexpected and regrettable shift in its foreign policy alignment;

    E. whereas North Macedonia participates in EU military crisis management operations, including EUFOR Althea in Bosnia and Herzegovina;

    F. whereas the Council reached new conclusions in July 2022 which mean that North Macedonia needs to adopt the outstanding constitutional changes, in line with its commitments, so that the opening phase of accession negotiations can be completed immediately;

    G. whereas the geopolitical changes, the war in Ukraine, disinformation and misinformation have a strong impact on all European countries, both politically and economically;

    H. whereas North Macedonia remains a target of foreign malign influence operations, including efforts to fracture the country’s social fabric and weaponise anti-EU sentiment, notably via Serbian-language tabloids and media outlets, which function as regional amplifiers of Kremlin narratives and enjoy considerable influence; whereas North Macedonia expelled 13 Russian diplomats between 2018 and 2023 for activities incompatible with their diplomatic status, suggesting an ongoing presence of covert influence networks; whereas China has sought to expand its influence through information control, investment diplomacy and coercive clauses in infrastructure loan agreements;

    I. whereas North Macedonia’s authorities have proposed solutions for constitutional change that did not meet the conditions of the July 2022 Council conclusions;

    J. whereas any accession country is expected to respect democratic values, the rule of law and human rights, and to abide by EU law;

    K. whereas the Council has not excluded unequivocally the adoption of further new conditions for the starting of accession negotiations;

    L. whereas the EU has consistently demonstrated its recognition of the Macedonian language and identity;

    1. Reiterates its full support for North Macedonia’s continued and persistent commitment to join the EU and for the necessary transformative changes that are required to fulfil the accession criteria; commends the country’s commitment to European integration and encourages continued efforts in advancing EU-aligned reforms, despite the challenges and setbacks that have tested the patience and trust of the Macedonian society;

    2. Underlines that EU accession remains a matter of political will in fulfilling the criteria and implementing the commitments undertaken, in terms of both making the necessary reforms and adopting the necessary constitutional amendments;

    3. Recalls the need to maintain the momentum and credibility of the EU integration process; notes that North Macedonia continues to demonstrate commitment to EU integration and alignment with EU policies; calls for the swift advancement of accession negotiations, while noting the importance of adopting the constitutional amendments; urges the European Council to signal, publicly and unequivocally, that the Council intends to swiftly and unconditionally take the positive decision to enter into the next phase of accession negotiations with North Macedonia once the conditions of its conclusions of 18 July 2022 have been fulfilled, while fully respecting the Macedonian language and identity; encourages all political parties in North Macedonia to engage in constructive dialogue to achieve the necessary consensus on these amendments, which would strengthen the country’s multi-ethnic character and accelerate its progress towards EU membership; believes that strengthening the links between the multiple ethnicities is essential for improving social cohesion and ensuring more effective governance; calls on the Member States, the Council and the Commission to safeguard the predictability and credibility of the accession process, also with a view to maintaining popular support for accession in enlargement countries;

    4. Welcomes the successful completion of the screening process for North Macedonia at the end of 2023; encourages North Macedonia to adopt the constitutional amendments that the country committed to making and implementing, as required by the Council, in order for the accession negotiation process to proceed;

    5. Commends the commitment of the Macedonian people to EU integration and the support they show to this project two decades on from starting the process; urges the Commission to do the utmost to help the authorities of North Macedonia accomplish the necessary steps before entering into the next negotiation phase as well as further along the negotiation process, to help deliver on the expectations of citizens and the country and to explore all measures for gradual integration into the EU structures, thus increasing trust in the EU and its democratic values;

    6. Recalls that the accession process should not be used to settle bilateral disputes, obstruct merit-based progress on the European path or outweigh the broader strategic interests of the Union, but that such disputes must rather be addressed through open dialogue and genuine cooperation; underlines that accession negotiations should follow a clear path, guided by objective criteria and solely based on merit and the fulfilment of the accession criteria (Copenhagen criteria), which require in-depth reforms across fundamental areas, as well as the presence of stable institutions that guarantee democracy, the rule of law, human rights and respect for and the protection of minorities;

    7. Affirms the importance of unequivocally recognising and respecting the Macedonian language and identity as an integral part of the nation’s heritage and constitutional order, but also of European values; notes that the European institutions, in country reports and official documents, consistently refer to the Macedonian language in line with international recognition and the implementation of the Prespa Agreement; reaffirms that the respect for linguistic, cultural and national identity is a fundamental component of the EU accession process and a cornerstone of democratic societies which will be further affirmed with the accession to the family of European nations;

    8. Repeats its calls for the EU’s capacity to act to be enhanced through a reform of its decision-making, including through the introduction of qualified majority voting on the intermediate steps in the accession process, in particular at the start of negotiations and the opening and closing of individual negotiating clusters and chapters;

    9. Welcomes the new Reform and Growth Facility for the Western Balkans which will provide EUR 750 million in grants and loans to North Macedonia when it meets the conditions set out in its Reform Agenda; welcomes, in this context, the excellent and ambitious Reform Agenda, which sets clear, transparent goals and targets, and calls on the authorities to focus on its rigorous implementation; underlines the need to focus on incentivising reforms and reinforcing economic stability as well as on public administration, governance, the rule of law and the fight against corruption, decarbonisation and the green transition, digitalisation, connectivity and human capital development, while addressing social challenges;

    10. Notes the funds being received by North Macedonia from individual Member States and the good cooperation between them; warns however about strengthening alliances with illiberal regimes;

    11. Commends North Macedonia on its continued commitment to the EU integration process and regrets the delays in the accession process; welcomes the stability of and encourages continued efforts to secure interethnic relations and the implementation of the Ohrid Framework Agreement;

    12. Encourages North Macedonia to achieve tangible results in complying with the EU’s expectations under the negotiating framework and the Council conclusions of July 2022, including relevant constitutional changes, in line with the country’s commitments;

    13. Urges North Macedonia to intensify efforts to strengthen the rule of law and judicial independence, including in judicial appointments and the functioning of the Judicial Council, to counter corruption, reform its public administration and improve the transparency and concentration of media ownership; encourages further implementation of systemic measures to ensure transparency and efficiency in governance;

    14. Expresses its profound sorrow and heartfelt solidarity following the tragic Kočani nightclub fire that led to the death of more than 50 young people and injuries to more than 150 others and offers its condolences to the victims and their families; commends the rapid use of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism and the help provided by the Member States to save as many lives as possible; commends neighbouring and EU countries, in particular Greece and Bulgaria, for the immediate support and solidarity they showed and the medical treatment they provided to victims;

    Functioning of democratic institutions

    15. Notes that, while democratic institutions in North Macedonia function satisfactorily, political polarisation remains a major stumbling block to necessary reforms; calls on the political parties represented in the country’s parliament to work together to reach an agreement on those reforms;

    16. Welcomes the adoption of new rules of procedure by the Assembly of the Republic of North Macedonia (Sobranie), facilitated by the European Parliament within the framework of the Jean Monnet Dialogue; stresses, however, that persistent political polarisation continues to delay important reforms and appointments; emphasises that cross-party collaboration and an improved political climate remain vital to accelerate the implementation of EU-related reforms and strengthen democratic institutions;

    17. Notes with concern that about half of all laws enacted by the Sobranie in 2023 were approved through shortened procedures; calls on the Sobranie to improve its legislative planning, coordination and quality through proper consultation procedures and parliamentary oversight, in particular with a view to the conclusions of the Jean Monnet Dialogue and to avoid fast-track procedures;

    18. Stresses that, while the 2024 parliamentary and presidential elections were competitive, and democratic and amendments to the Electoral Code have been made, comprehensive electoral reform is still needed; calls strongly for the implementation of the outstanding recommendations made by the OSCE/ODIHR and the Venice Commission through an inclusive revision of the Electoral Code, while underlining the importance of insulating future electoral processes from malign foreign interference and information manipulation, including through the adoption of robust cybersecurity and online campaign transparency rules;

    19. Calls for improved regulation of the financing of political parties and campaigns, including measures to increase transparency regarding the funds and expenses of political parties; urges a revision of the rules on state advertising in commercial media and paid political advertisement; emphasises the need for functioning oversight mechanisms to ensure integrity in party financing and for equal and adequate media access for political parties and independent candidates;

    20. Calls for the continued modernisation of a merit-based public administration, addressing systemic challenges of politicisation, strengthening transparent recruitment processes, and reforming local self-government to provide better social services for citizens and to develop tailor-made local and regional development strategies; urges the authorities to step up their efforts and adopt and implement the necessary legislation with a view to improving public trust in the administration and fostering a resilient and capable public service that can effectively respond to contemporary challenges and serve the needs of the community; commends the 2023-2030 public administration strategy and the related action plan for 2023-2026 adopted in July 2023; acknowledges that they cover all relevant reform areas and set out a clear baseline, objectives and targets, thus identifying crucial policy challenges; regrets, however that the implementation rate remains low;

    21. Calls for further steps to ensure the systemic accountability of public institutions through meaningful and public stakeholder consultations, including with regard to the implementation of the Reform Agenda, and to provide feedback from the consultations conducted; commends the law on general administrative procedures that is providing for simplification, but strongly recommends that it be implemented systematically across the administration;

    22. Urges the authorities of North Macedonia to refrain from opaque, politicised dismissals from, and appointments to, positions within independent bodies and agencies, as well as to ensure that the institutions are adequately funded and that decisions and recommendations are implemented consistently; notes with regret the continued lack of progress in strengthening the office of the Ombudsman;

    Media and civil society

    23. Welcomes North Macedonia’s steady progress in assuring media freedom; recalls however, the need for continued reforms to ensure an independent and resilient media landscape, including reforming the legal framework governing online and offline media to align fully with the European Media Freedom Act[5], addressing persistent challenges in media ownership transparency, digital media disclosure and media concentration; underlines the need for media reform that prioritises anti-concentration measures to safeguard journalistic integrity; emphasises the urgent need to counter malign foreign influence in the media landscape, including disinformation disseminated by actors linked to Russia and China;

    24. Calls on the authorities to adopt a legal framework that effectively protects journalists, human rights defenders, environmental activists and other stakeholders from strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs), and to implement the provisions of the EU Anti-SLAPP Directive[6];

    25. Urges the authorities to ensure full transparency and unimpeded access to information for citizens;

    26. Notes with concern the reinstatement of government advertising in commercial media in North Macedonia; stresses the heightened risk of this measure opening the media market to disruption and undue political influence, thus endangering media independence and media pluralism; reiterates its calls for the comprehensive reform of the rules governing state financing and political party advertising in the media, noting the lack of transparency, the ongoing misuse of state funds for political advertising, and the continued risk of compromising media independence through opaque funding mechanisms; calls strongly for these reforms to be adopted and implemented before the local elections planned for autumn 2025;

    27. Underlines the need to strengthen the independence and capacity of the media regulator, the public service broadcaster and the regulator of electronic communication;

    28. Encourages action to enhance the editorial and financial independence, impartiality and professionalism of public service broadcasters and media regulators, while noting the continued delay in appointing key oversight bodies and the need for comprehensive modernisation efforts; calls for stricter transparency and ownership rules to expose covert influence, including foreign-sponsored media content, and for the establishment of mechanisms to identify and disrupt coordinated foreign disinformation networks;

    29. Notes that certain Chinese diplomatic entities have financed paid content and opinion pieces in Macedonian media outlets without clear labelling; recalls that a 2023 analysis found that Russian state-affiliated actors had used Serbian media proxies to disseminate narratives hostile to NATO and to claim that the EU is pressuring North Macedonia to ‘abandon its identity’;

    30. Expresses concern over the ongoing threats and attacks against independent journalists and media professionals, including misogynistic online harassment targeting women journalists, often targeting those reporting on the rule of law, corruption and justice; welcomes the assignment of a dedicated prosecutor to monitor these attacks on journalists and oversee the establishment of cyberbullying reporting mechanisms; calls for stronger measures to protect media professionals from physical and non-physical threats, harassment and the inappropriate use of language by public figures;

    31. Encourages North Macedonia to continue the efforts to combat hate speech in all of its forms and targeting all groups, to proactively prevent and thoroughly investigate all instances of hate speech, hate crimes and intimidation, systematically prosecute related attacks, with a view to achieving convictions and ensuring the safety and security of their targets, such as journalists, people belonging to minorities, communities such as Bulgarians, and other vulnerable groups;

    32. Expresses concern about the rise in hate speech and growing threats from disinformation in online media, over which the national Agency for Audio and Audiovisual Media Services has no regulatory authority; calls for strengthened measures to support investigative journalism, fact-checking capabilities and media literacy and to improve the legal framework and interinstitutional capacity in order to combat hate speech, disinformation and foreign interference; is concerned by widespread disinformation campaigns which call into question democratic values and the country’s goal of EU membership; calls, in this regard, for the support of the EU institutions to help the country mitigate these malicious effects; welcomes civil society initiatives promoting media fact-checking, digital literacy in schools and the combating of the spread of hate speech, and notes that nearly 50 % of the citizens of North Macedonia have adopted false narratives about international events, particularly regarding the war in Ukraine, underscoring the urgency of reinforcing societal resilience against malign information manipulation;

    33. Underlines that civil society is vital in fostering democracy and pluralism and promoting good governance and social progress; welcomes the country’s vibrant and constructive civil society, which plays a very crucial and positive role in the reform process, and recalls that further efforts are needed to ensure inclusive, timely and meaningful consultation and transparency, as well as formal mechanisms for cooperation; welcomes, against this backdrop, the recent initiation of the process for re-establishing the Council for Cooperation with and Development of the Civil Society Sector and calls for enhanced cooperation between the government and civil society, especially in mitigating the implications for civil society of the recent ‘freeze’ of US Agency for International Development (USAID) funds; notes that, while civil society organisations operate in an overall enabling environment, legal and financial frameworks need to be implemented to ensure that their public funding is increased and that public funding mechanisms are transparent; is concerned about reports of an increase in hostile statements towards civil society and encourages the Ministry of Internal Affairs to work with civil society organisations to develop a security protocol for human rights defenders to ensure their protection against threats from non-state actors; calls strongly for further enhancement of the role of civil society by ensuring that it continues to be meaningfully included in the decision-making process and by consulting the Venice Commission before adopting future legislation related to non-governmental organisations (NGOs);

    Fundamental rights

    34. Commends North Macedonia for ratifying most international human rights instruments; expresses concern, however, about the level of implementation, the lack of progress in gender equality, the rise of anti-gender movements and the increase in their influence, which have a negative impact on legislative and policymaking processes; urges the government to fully implement the Istanbul Convention; calls on the authorities to adopt the new Law on Gender Equality and to strengthen formal government structures designed to promote gender equality and improve the status and rights of women at all levels, as well as to ensure the effective implementation of the gender equality strategy and the national action plan, notably by ensuring adequate funding, enhancing interinstitutional coordination and aligning national policies with the EU acquis;

    35. Urges the authorities to ensure the full and effective implementation of the existing legal framework for the protection of victims of gender-based and domestic violence, by allocating sufficient budgetary resources for prevention, and by improving access to support services, protection mechanisms and the enforcement of legally guaranteed social and economic rights of survivors; notes, against this background, the adoption in 2023 of the Law on Payment of Monetary Compensation to Victims of Violent Crimes, which integrates the standards of the Istanbul Convention to provide better protection for victims of gender-based violence; urges the authorities, furthermore, to strengthen their efforts to reduce and mitigate gender-based violence and domestic violence, and to increase shelter capacity and personnel, as well as the number of well-trained and gender-sensitive law enforcement officers, judges, medical personnel and social workers;

    36. Notes, with concern, the dire situation of young women in prison, including juvenile girls aged between 14 and 16, who lack education and job skills training and are often overmedicated, with insufficient healthcare; urges the authorities of North Macedonia to take urgent measures to improve the detention conditions for all inmates, to reduce corruption and stop inhuman treatment, and to enhance the probation and reintegration of ex-prisoners into society;

    37. Urges North Macedonia to fully implement the recommendations outlined in the 2023 ECRI report on North Macedonia in order to effectively address the human rights violations identified;

    38. Welcomes the fact that interethnic relations remain stable and the Ohrid Framework Agreement continues to be implemented; commends North Macedonia’s efforts in strengthening minority rights protections, while encouraging further financial support; calls for adequate funding and staffing for institutions protecting the rights of non-majority communities; calls on political representatives of minority communities to avoid promoting divisive ethnic narratives echoing policies that caused profound suffering and wars in the region’s recent past; urges North Macedonia to fully implement the recommendations of the Advisory Committee on the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities as regards the ‘One society for all and interculturalism’ strategy; calls on North Macedonia to provide sufficient funding and staff for the Language Implementation Agency and the Agency for Community Rights Realization; regrets that North Macedonia did not ratify the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages; awaits a final decision on the contested Law on the Use of Languages, which may have an impact on interethnic relations;

    39. Welcomes the progress the country has achieved in aligning its legislative and institutional framework for the rights of the child with the EU acquis and international human rights standards; notes the progress in implementing the strategy for deinstitutionalisation and welcomes the successful relocation of children from institutions to foster care or small group homes; notes with concern, however, the continued instances of child violence and discrimination, including against Roma children; calls, therefore, for the country to set up a national body responsible for coordinating all policies relating to the implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and the optional protocols thereto;

    40. Encourages North Macedonia to take meaningful steps toward recognising and incorporating national minorities and communities into its constitution, fostering inclusivity, protecting diversity, fighting discrimination and strengthening social cohesion in line with European values and democratic principles; calls on North Macedonia to fully guarantee equal rights and opportunities for all ethnic communities in the country;

    41. Notes that persons with disabilities continue to face significant barriers as the country’s legislation is still not aligned with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities; welcomes the national strategy for the rights of persons with disabilities for 2023-2030 and calls strongly for its proper implementation, including in regard to ensuring a sufficient number of educational assistants, in order to effectively and smoothly include children with disabilities in the education process;

    42. Welcomes the first court ruling on hate speech against the LGBTIQ+ community, but calls strongly for the systematic prosecution of all instances of hate speech, hate crimes and intimidation, as well as for the inclusion of hate speech in the Criminal Code and for the state institutions responsible to keep adequate statistics on cases of hate speech and hate crimes;

    43. Notes with concern the widespread hate speech on social media, particularly towards Roma, LGBTIQ+ persons and other marginalised groups; urges all political actors to amend the Law on Civil Registry and ensure swift and unimpeded legal gender recognition on the basis of self-determination, to uphold human rights, ensure dignity, and establish a clear and accessible legal process in line with international standards; recommends that the new Law on Primary Education maintain explicit protection against discrimination based on gender, sexual orientation and gender identity, ensuring alignment with national and international commitments; encourages the Assembly of North Macedonia to promptly (re-)establish an active interparliamentary LGBTIQ+ group to support and advance LGBTIQ+ rights;

    44. Calls on North Macedonia to strengthen migration management, improve alignment with the EU acquis and address persistent challenges in handling regular and irregular migration while upholding fundamental human rights; welcomes enhanced cooperation on border management and the strengthening of the country’s capacity to manage migration flows and combat migrant smuggling, human trafficking and other organised crime; encourages the continued development of asylum procedures and integration policies and the improvement of reception conditions, in alignment with EU migration frameworks; stresses the importance of regional cooperation in migration management and urges the EU to provide further support in terms of resources, technical assistance and capacity-building in order to address migration challenges effectively;

    45. Calls on North Macedonia to step up its efforts in the fight against human trafficking, notably by further aligning the Criminal Code with the EU acquis and its legislation on drugs;

    Rule of law

    46. Notes, with serious concern, that the country’s track record in fighting corruption, including high-level corruption, has worsened, as also evidenced by its decline in Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index, particularly owing to Criminal Code amendments that have weakened the legal framework, resulting in the termination of many ongoing cases; reiterates that this decline underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reforms; calls strongly for the anti-corruption framework to be strengthened and for effective accountability to be ensured, in particular in high-level corruption cases, through proper investigation, prosecution and convictions; urges a review of recent amendments to the Criminal Code in relation to sentencing standards and the statute of limitations, in order to ensure that the prosecution of corruption, especially of complex and high-level cases, is not negatively affected;

    47. Recalls that sufficient financial and human resources are needed to ensure effective and consistent application of dissuasion, prevention, detection, investigation and sanction mechanisms for public office holders through broad measures covering conflicts of interest, lobbying, codes of ethics and whistle-blower protection;

    48. Notes that the perceived level of trust in the judiciary remains very low and that further efforts are needed to prevent undue influence and intimidation; underlines the lack of progress in the implementation of the 2020 strategies for human resources management in the courts and in the public prosecutor’s office; calls strongly for the critical shortage of judges and prosecutors, which impacts the quality and efficiency of justice, to be addressed; calls for the independence and transparency of judicial bodies to be strengthened and for the funds necessary for their effective functioning to be allocated;

    49. Calls for the strengthening of the Judicial Council and the Council of Prosecutors and for the allocation of necessary funds, while ensuring their independence; strongly urges political actors to cease interfering in judicial institutions;

    50. Notes, with concern, the lack of progress in preventing and fighting corruption, and that financial investigations remain problematic; underlines how corruption continues to severely affect crucial policy areas; calls for the operational capacity and cooperation of agencies responsible for fighting organised crime and financial crime to be significantly strengthened, including through ensuring the necessary financial resources; encourages the country to improve its fight against organised and economic crime and cybercrime through a strengthened partnership with Europol, the European Cybercrime Centre and Eurojust; calls on North Macedonia to enhance its efforts to combat money laundering;

    51. Calls for all necessary measures to be put in place to effectively counter organised crime; urges the authorities to improve coordination through the National Coordination Centre for the Fight Against Organised Crime as well as to allocate the necessary funds and staffing to the Office of the Basic Public Prosecutor for Organised Crime and Corruption; underlines the need to direct particular attention and resources towards uncovering money-laundering schemes;

    52. Notes, with concern, North Macedonia’s partial alignment with the EU acquis in the fight against organised crime; reiterates its call for further alignment with the EU acquis and for systematic financial investigations, stepping up the freezing, confiscation, management and disposal of illegally acquired assets;

    53. Calls for a thorough and transparent investigation of the Kočani nightclub fire on 16 March 2025, to bring to justice the persons responsible, and also for the legislation to be updated and thoroughly implemented to prevent similar tragedies and ensure better public safety and regulatory compliance to protect citizens;

    54. Calls for the swift implementation of the ongoing reforms in the security and intelligence sectors, and for the independence of security and intelligence bodies to be strengthened through the establishment of appropriate regulatory frameworks, while also enhancing democratic oversight mechanisms; notes, with concern, that the National Security Agency is still located on the premises of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, calling into question its status as an independent state administration body;

    55. Commends North Macedonia’s strong determination to counter hybrid threats; welcomes the government’s initiative to create a national strategic framework to counter disinformation as well as the adoption of the national cybersecurity strategy 2025-2028; calls for further efforts to build resilience against foreign interference and information manipulation; underlines the need to work on a national strategy to build resilience against disinformation as a security threat to the state, including through enhanced cybersecurity measures and strategic communication as well as education and media literacy; calls for the full operationalisation of EU mechanisms, such as the rapid alert system, to detect malign foreign influence in real time during key democratic processes, including elections;

    56. Is deeply concerned that North Macedonia and other EU accession countries in the Western Balkans are being particularly hard hit by foreign interference and disinformation campaigns, including hybrid threats, strategic corruption, opaque financial flows and coercive investment practices, notably originating in Russia and China; is alarmed by Hungary’s and Serbia’s roles in advancing China’s and Russia’s geopolitical objectives; notes, in this context, the risk of dependence on China caused by asymmetrical loan agreements, as well as the recent loan from Hungary, which  appears to be sourced from China;

    Socio-economic reforms

    57. Recommends that North Macedonia continue to pursue steps to improve the business climate and infrastructure, strengthen education and digital infrastructure, and enhance social protection systems and their connection to employment initiatives; welcomes the inclusion of human capital-related reforms in the Growth Plan Reform Agenda and calls on North Macedonia to dedicate sufficient effort to implementing these reforms to achieve sustainable results in the development of human capital for children and young people, as the foundation of resilient societies and sustainable growth;

    58. Welcomes the adoption of the Reform Agenda and the multiannual work programme under the Reform and Growth Facility for North Macedonia, which will provide support for small and medium-sized enterprises, cut red tape and digitalise the public system, and welcomes the steps provided for in the Reform Agenda regarding the digital infrastructure roll-out and the new Law on Electronic Communications, aligning the national legislation with the relevant EU acquis and keeping up with the digital transition worldwide;

    59. Encourages labour market activation strategies for young people, the long-term unemployed, and low-skilled individuals, as well as for women, persons with disabilities and Roma, and calls for these measures to be properly evaluated; takes note of the long-term improvement in unemployment rates, notes, however, that this must be accompanied by a rise in real wages, the improvement of working conditions and the protection of workers’ rights, including trade union rights; calls for the full implementation of the Law on the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes;

    60. Encourages North Macedonia to advance its digital transformation, particularly by improving the digital skills of all citizens and by providing online access to public services; recognises the demographic challenges faced by North Macedonia, including population decline, the emigration of young professionals, and an ageing workforce, and underlines the need to address the brain drain, especially in the medical, technological and educational fields; calls for the implementation of targeted policies to reverse the brain drain, enhance family-friendly social policies and attract return migration; encourages cooperation with the EU on demographic resilience strategies, including labour market incentives, housing support for young families, and investment in education and skills development to align with future job market needs; calls for increased support for innovation and competitiveness;

    61. Welcomes the positive effects of the Youth Guarantee on the reduction of youth unemployment; calls on North Macedonia to intensify its efforts to reduce the unemployment rate of young people aged between 15 and 24, which remains high at 29.3 %; underlines the need to address social challenges, ensure quality employment policies, foster upward social cohesion and convergence towards EU standards and support progress on the principles of the European Pillar of Social Rights;

    62. Welcomes the efforts to amend the labour law; urges full alignment of the Law on Working Relations with EU directives to effectively guarantee the right to equal pay for equal work, ensure pay transparency and enhance protection against discrimination based on pregnancy and maternity; insists on the need to strengthen the competencies and capacities of the State Labour Inspectorate to ensure effective protection of workers’ rights, including safeguards against labour discrimination;

    63. Commends North Macedonia for joining the single euro payments area (SEPA), recognising this as an important step toward deeper financial integration with the European market and the facilitation of faster, more efficient cross-border transactions; urges North Macedonia to introduce structural reforms to strengthen the economy and secure the country’s debt sustainability;

    64. Welcomes the calls for the prompt integration of all of the Western Balkans into the EU’s digital single market at the earliest opportunity, which would crucially benefit the creation of a digitally safe environment;

    65. Urges the authorities to fully implement existing legal provisions to ensure access to primary healthcare services, with a particular focus on sexual and reproductive health for women, mothers and children, and eliminate barriers related to geography, finances or other hardships; calls for targeted measures to support vulnerable groups of women in accessing healthcare, including Roma women, rural women and those living in poverty;

    66. Welcomes the progress made in the implementation of the Strategy for Inclusion of Roma 2022-2030; regrets, however, that the strategy lacks a clear approach to participation, empowerment and capacity building; calls on the authorities to implement the respective action plans, ensuring proper monitoring and meaningful and transparent participation of civil society organisations, notably from the Roma community;

    Environment, biodiversity, energy and transport

    67. Welcomes the adoption of the Energy Law in 2025 and underscores its importance for guaranteeing a safe, secure and high-quality supply of energy as well as for creating an efficient, competitive and financially sustainable energy sector; encourages the authorities to continue on this ambitious path and recalls that additional efforts are needed to fully meet the targets for energy efficiency, renewable energy, security of supply and emissions reductions; urges the country’s authorities to align their environment and climate change legislation with the EU acquis and to ensure its enforcement; notes, with concern, the lack of progress on climate action and the pending adoption of key legislation; stresses the need to integrate gender equality and social inclusion into climate action planning so that women, low-income households and marginalised communities are actively consulted and benefit equitably from the transition;

    68. Welcomes the European Investment Bank’s continued financial and technical support in North Macedonia, including strategic infrastructure projects such as the Rail Corridor VIII, the Skopje wastewater treatment plant, and municipal water infrastructure development; calls for an inclusive and just transition which protects the socially vulnerable, by mobilising public and private financing for the green transition, fully operationalising dedicated funding mechanisms and leveraging EU and international support; stresses the need to address the problems of a lack of specialised staff and weak institutional and administrative capacity, which undermine quality control and the adequate performance of environmental impact assessments;

    69. Notes, with concern, that air and water quality and wastewater management remain particularly challenging issues for the country; urges the central government and local authorities to step up their efforts in order to improve air quality and reduce potentially lethal pollution; recalls that the situation is particularly alarming in Skopje, which has consistently been one of the most polluted cities in Europe;

    70. Recognises North Macedonia’s great potential as a regional hub with regard to the use of renewable energy sources; urges North Macedonia to fully align its environmental impact assessment with the EU acquis, with a particular focus on secondary legislation concerning small hydropower projects;

    71. Stresses the urgent need to prioritise environmental protection; strongly urges the authorities to adopt the necessary legislation and to step up measures on biodiversity, water, air and climate action, and regional waste management, including through comprehensive impact assessments, rigorous prosecution of environmental crime and proper public consultation that allows for the meaningful and transparent involvement of local communities, NGOs and scientific institutions;

    72. Calls on North Macedonia to establish legal protections for Emerald Sites designated under the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (the Bern Convention) to safeguard them from environmentally harmful projects; encourages the country to expand its protected areas, with a view to fulfilling the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework targets; reiterates the urgent need to adopt the law on the re-proclamation of Mavrovo National Park to ensure the continuation and completion of its essential conservation efforts; encourages North Macedonia to include Jablanica on its list of protected areas, thus ensuring the conservation of habitats that are critical to the survival of species;

    73. Encourages the authorities of North Macedonia to implement stricter protection and management strategies for the habitats of endangered species, as well as for the species themselves, particularly the Balkan lynx, including rigorous enforcement of laws against wildlife crimes, specifically illegal killing and poaching, to safeguard biodiversity;

    74. Welcomes North Macedonia’s continued cooperation with Kosovo and Albania regarding the transboundary Sharr Mountains National Park; encourages North Macedonia to intensify and speed up collaborative efforts with its neighbouring countries to designate transboundary protected areas and establish coherent transboundary management plans;

    75. Stresses the need to tackle financial challenges faced by national parks to improve various aspects, including human resources and overall management, with the aim of strengthening their role in biodiversity conservation, providing recreational opportunities and supporting local economies;

    76. Welcomes the progress made in the construction of the Corridor VIII of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) and commends the completion of the Kriva Palanka–Dlabochica–Stracin expressway; urges, however, the authorities of North Macedonia to step up their efforts to prioritise sustainable transport and upgrade energy infrastructure work towards integration in European networks and regional connectivity as well as to address persistent delays in the development of critical infrastructure, including through bilateral negotiations; calls on the Commission to assist in these efforts where needed;

    77. Calls for additional efforts to accelerate progress on all priority sections of the core network for both rail and road, including by increasing the number of border crossings wherever possible; notes the strategic importance of Corridor VIII for the EU’s and NATO’s geostrategic autonomy, serving as a key logistics route along NATO’s southern flank;

    Regional cooperation and foreign policy

    78. Welcomes North Macedonia’s valuable and significant contributions to regional cooperation and stability via its engagement in regional economic and diplomatic initiatives such as the Berlin Process, the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, and the implementation of common regional market agreements, underlining the importance of their inclusiveness;

    79. Welcomes the country’s commitment to nurturing good neighbourly relations and acknowledges its role as a model for the peaceful resolution of bilateral disputes through dialogue and mutual understanding; emphasises, in this regard, the importance of full implementation of international agreements with tangible results in good faith by all sides, including the Prespa Agreement with Greece and the Treaty of friendship, good neighbourliness and cooperation with Bulgaria; calls for consistent commitment to dialogue and cooperation with neighbouring countries to strengthen regional stability and foster mutual trust; calls for the further promotion of people-to-people contacts across south-eastern Europe;

    80. Expresses concern about the so-called ‘Serbian world’ project and that some representatives of the Government of North Macedonia have been advocating and promoting this concept; condemns the participation in meetings that attempt to establish a sphere of influence undermining the sovereignty of other countries and the stability of the region;

    81. Recalls the need to open up Yugoslav secret service archives (UDBA and KOS), kept in both North Macedonia and Serbia; emphasises the need to open these archives region-wide to deal with the totalitarian past in a transparent way, with a view to strengthening democracy, accountability and institutions in the Western Balkans;

    82. Welcomes North Macedonia’s continued commitment to Euro-Atlantic security; commends North Macedonia’s active role in the OSCE, in particular its chairmanship of the OSCE in 2023 in a complex geopolitical environment, and substantial contributions to EU crisis management missions and military operations; commends the country’s alignment with the EU’s foreign, security and defence policy, including its clear-cut response to  Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine by aligning with the EU’s restrictive measures against Russia and Belarus and providing support to Ukraine; welcomes the signing of a security and defence partnership with the EU in 2024;

    83. Regrets, however, that North Macedonia, was the only country in the Western Balkans to abstain on the European resolution on Ukraine in the UN General Assembly in February 2025 and instead co-sponsored the US resolution, alongside countries such as Georgia and Hungary, representing a negative signal regarding North Macedonia’s alignment with the EU’s common foreign and security policy and with the collective European commitment to upholding peace, international law and democratic principles;

    84. Acknowledges North Macedonia’s NATO membership as a significant geostrategic contribution to regional security and Euro-Atlantic stability, including through the country’s active participation in NATO missions and operations and its strategic role in fostering peace and cooperation in the Western Balkans, as well as through the ongoing modernisation of its armed forces and reforms in the fields of crisis management, critical infrastructure and cyber defence; highlights the fact that NATO membership strengthens North Macedonia’s defence capabilities, enhances security coordination with EU and NATO allies, and serves as a deterrent against external destabilisation efforts; encourages North Macedonia to deepen cooperation with the EU and NATO on countering hybrid threats, including through cybersecurity coordination, joint disinformation tracking and resilience-building, and to pursue its efforts to deter external destabilisation attempts; encourages North Macedonia to continue its investment in defence modernisation and alignment with NATO strategic priorities in order to further solidify its role as a reliable security partner;

    85. Welcomes the agreement concluded at the EU-Western Balkans summit in Tirana on reduced roaming costs; calls, in this respect, on the authorities, private actors and all stakeholders to facilitate achieving the agreed targets of a substantial reduction of data roaming charges between the Western Balkans and the EU and further reductions leading to prices close to the domestic prices by 2027; welcomes the entering into force of the first phase of implementation of the roadmap for roaming between the Western Balkans and the EU;

    86. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the President of the European Council, the Council, the Commission, the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the governments and parliaments of the Member States, and the President, Government and Assembly of the Republic of North Macedonia.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: World Bank Approves Health Resilience Project to Protect Lives and Strengthen Emergency Response in Mozambique


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    The World Bank has approved the Mozambique Health Emergency Preparedness, Response and Resilience Project, an initiative to strengthen the health system’s ability to deliver essential services consistently and equitably. The project targets underserved and climate-vulnerable areas by investing in human resources, infrastructure, and systems that ensure continuity of care during emergencies. This project is part of a regional program to strengthen health security across Eastern and Southern Africa.  

    Mozambique faces frequent floods, cyclones, disease outbreaks, and other emergencies that disrupt health services and put lives at risk. Many communities lack sufficient and trained health workers, access to essential medicines, and the tools to detect and respond quickly to crises. The project seeks to address these gaps by:

    • Strengthening the health workforce capacity, particularly in high-risk areas, by improving recruitment, training, and retention systems;
    • Improving pharmaceutical supply chains by supporting the regulatory agency in bringing more transparency and speed to procurement processes, lowering and standardizing prices of health commodities to ensure access to medicines, particularly during crises; and
    • Enhancing disease surveillance and laboratory capacity to improve early warning and response systems to quickly detect and respond to health emergencies like cholera outbreaks or heatwaves.

    The project also supports the development of climate-adaptive infrastructure and emergency preparedness plans, recognizing the growing health risks posed by climate change.

    “Mozambique is already experiencing the health impacts of shocks and emergencies,” noted Luc Lecuit, World Bank Acting Division Director in Mozambique. “The program supports the government’s efforts to strengthen core health service delivery by investing in preparedness and resilience, ensuring services remain operational during floods, storms, and epidemics.”

    Financed through a $201 million grant from the International Development Association (IDA)*, the initiative will be implemented over five years, concluding in September 2030.

    “By prioritizing practical investments in the foundational pillars of the health sector, the Government of Mozambique is driving greater efficiency across the system and strengthening its emergency response capacity to protect lives,” said João Pires, World Bank Senior Health Specialist and Task Team Leader. “These efforts are paving the way for bold reforms to ensure the health system remains resilient and responsive, even under pressure.”

    In parallel, the World Bank, together with other development partners, is increasing its support to the Mozambique health sector through a $63.7 million top-up to the ongoing District and Community Health Services Revitalization Project. This additional financing—comprising $8.7 million from IDA, $5 million from the Global Financing Facility, and $50 million from a multi-donor trust fund supported by Canada, the United Kingdom, and Ireland—will expand the project’s impact across the most vulnerable 63 districts of Mozambique. The operation focuses on improving access to quality primary health care, particularly for women, children, and adolescents, and strengthening service delivery at the district and community levels.

    Both projects align with the forthcoming Mozambique’s Health Sector Strategic Plan (PESS, 2025-2034)  (PESS 2020–2024) and the National Adaptation Plan (2023), and complement regional efforts to strengthen health security across Eastern and Southern Africa.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The World Bank Group.

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