NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Panel to examine measures adopted by Türkiye targeting Chinese electric vehicle imports

    Source: World Trade Organization

    DS629: Türkiye — Measures Concerning Electric Vehicles and Other Types of Vehicles from China

    China submitted its second request for the establishment of a dispute panel to rule on various measures taken by Türkiye concerning electric vehicles (“EVs”) and certain other types of vehicles originating in China. China’s first request was blocked by Türkiye at the previous DSB meeting on 27 January. China said challenges faced by one member’s industry need to be addressed in a way consistent with its WTO obligations and should not be used as an excuse for abandoning the core principle of non-discrimination that is the bedrock of the WTO and of the rules-based international trading system.

    Türkiye said it is deeply concerned that China is making such a request before all possible bilateral consultations are exhausted. China’s request relates to a major sector that has been facing strong challenges for many years due to uncompetitive practices, subsidization and excess capacity, Türkiye said.

    The DSB agreed to the establishment of the panel. The European Union, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Brazil, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States, Switzerland, Norway, Singapore, the Russian Federation, Thailand and India reserved their third-party rights to participate in the panel proceedings.

    DS593: European Union — Certain Measures Concerning Palm Oil and Oil Palm Crop-Based Biofuels

    Indonesia noted the panel ruling circulated on 10 January, which it said found that the European Union’s 2018 renewable energy directive and related regulations unfairly discriminated against Indonesia’s palm oil biofuels. The economic impact of these discriminatory measures is substantial and has severely affected Indonesian palm oil exports, impacting millions of farmers and businesses, Indonesia said. It called on the EU to adjust its policy and the measures at issue so that they are in line with the WTO agreements; Indonesia will closely monitor implementation and expects swift compliance.

    The European Union said it welcomed the panel’s findings, which confirm that the EU has the right to take measures to ensure that its policies on renewable fuels do not exacerbate greenhouse gas emissions associated with indirect land-use change. While it raised some concerns regarding the panel’s findings, the EU said the panel found that the EU measures aim to achieve legitimate environmental objectives and that they are science-based.

    Russia, Brazil, the United States, and St Vincent and the Grenadines (for the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States) took the floor to comment on the panel report.

    The DSB took note of the statements and adopted the panel report.

    DS599: Panama — Measures Concerning the Importation of Certain Products from Costa Rica

    Costa Rica made a statement criticizing Panama’s decision to appeal the panel report in DS599, which upheld Costa Rica’s complaint regarding Panama’s import restrictions on various fruit, dairy and meat products from Costa Rica. Costa Rica proposed a bilateral agreement to Panama that would enable both parties to proceed to arbitration under Article 25 of the Dispute Settlement Understanding (DSU), but Panama refused, Costa Rica said. Panama’s appeal “into the void” should serve to highlight the importance of alternative avenues under the DSU to resolve disputes, Costa Rica said.

    Panama said it reaffirms its commitment to international law and to the WTO agreements in general and the DSU in particular, and its willingness to settle any dispute with its trading partners.

    The European Union, Canada and Colombia made statements on the matter.

    Appellate Body appointments

    Colombia, speaking on behalf of 130 members, introduced for the 84th time the group’s proposal to start the selection processes for filling vacancies on the Appellate Body. The extensive number of members submitting the proposal reflects a common interest in the functioning of the Appellate Body and, more generally, in the functioning of the WTO’s dispute settlement system, Colombia said.

    The United States repeated that the US is currently transitioning to a new administration and that, as US concerns with WTO dispute settlement remain unaddressed, it does not support the proposed decision.

    Twenty-two members then took the floor to comment, one speaking on behalf of the ACP Group. Most reiterated their support for the joint proposal and for the urgent need to restore a fully functioning dispute settlement system. Several welcomed the progress made in the dispute settlement reform discussions last year and supported the proposal by the previous General Council Chair to commence consultations on advancing the discussions.

    Ten members (China; Canada; Hong Kong, China; Switzerland; Singapore; the European Union; Australia; Norway; Japan; and New Zealand) urged members to consider joining the Multi-Party Interim Appeal Arrangement (MPIA), a contingent measure to safeguard the right to appeal in the absence of a functioning Appellate Body.

    Colombia said on behalf of the 130 members that it regretted that, on 84 occasions, members have not been able to launch the selection processes. Ongoing conversations about reform of the dispute settlement system should not prevent the Appellate Body from continuing to operate fully, and, in line with 17.2 of the DSU, members shall comply with their obligation under the Dispute Settlement Understanding to fill the vacancies as they arise, Colombia said on behalf of the group.

    Surveillance of implementation

    The United States presented status reports with regard to DS184, “United States — Anti-Dumping Measures on Certain Hot-Rolled Steel Products from Japan”, DS160, “United States — Section 110(5) of US Copyright Act”, DS464, “United States — Anti-Dumping and Countervailing Measures on Large Residential Washers from Korea”, and DS471, “United States — Certain Methodologies and their Application to Anti-Dumping Proceedings Involving China.”

    The European Union presented a status report with regard to DS291, “EC — Measures Affecting the Approval and Marketing of Biotech Products.”

    Indonesia presented its status reports in DS477 and DS478, “Indonesia — Importation of Horticultural Products, Animals and Animal Products.” 

    Election of Chairperson

    At the end of the meeting, the DSB elected Ambassador Clare Kelly of New Zealand as Chair of the DSB for the coming work year.

    Next meeting

    The next regular DSB meeting will take place on 24 March.

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    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Germany: Human rights must be a priority for new government after ‘poisonous’ electoral campaign

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Reacting to the Bundestag elections results, Julia Duchrow, Amnesty International Germany’s Secretary General, said:

    “This election campaign was divisive poison for our society. It is not mistrust or racist agitation that makes our coexistence safe, but a commitment to the fundamental values of our society: inalienable human rights.

    “We therefore call on all parties tasked with forming a government to recognise the non-negotiability of human rights and international law.

    “The next German government must work to build a strong civil society, bring an end to misanthropic debates and strengthen international law and the institutions that uphold it.

    “In recent weeks, a huge wave of solidarity has emerged in Germany and the activists who stand up for human rights and challenge racism and discrimination need our support, now more than ever.

    “We must ensure that this wave of solidarity does not ebb away and that we remain active and united. We must demonstrate our commitment to the rule of law and human rights wherever we are: in our neighbourhoods, our workplaces and our homes.”

    View latest press releases

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Telephone conversation with the leader of the CDU, Friedrich Merz

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    24 Febbraio 2025

    The President of the Council of Ministers, Giorgia Meloni, had a telephone conversation today with the leader of the CDU, Friedrich Merz. 

    First of all, President Meloni offered her congratulations for his victory in the German elections, and confirmed the hope to be able to further intensify the already excellent bilateral relations. President Meloni also expressed her readiness to immediately work closely together in order to strengthen Europe’s security, revitalise its competitiveness and address the numerous common challenges, starting with the fight against irregular immigration.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Digital Services Act: tools for citizens to identify disinformation – E-002965/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    On 18 December 2023 the Commission opened formal proceedings[1] to assess whether X may have breached the Digital Services Act[2] focusing, among others, on the effectiveness of X’s measures against information manipulation, particularly the ‘Community Notes’ system.

    The Commission is currently assessing whether Community Notes effectively help users identify disinformation and mitigate risks to public debate and electoral processes.

    Transparency, media literacy and critical thinking are among the tools supported by the Commission to equip citizens to identify disinformation.

    The Commission Recommendation on inclusive and resilient elections[3] encourages Member States to support projects aiming to build resilience and develop public awareness, media literacy and critical thinking to address information manipulation, interference and disinformation.

    The regulation on transparency and targeting of political advertising[4] will ensure from October 2025 that political advertisements are labelled, accompanied by a transparency notice and subject to strict requirements when targeted.

    The DSA is complemented by a voluntary Code of Practice on Disinformation. Signatories of the Code have committed to reduce the spread of disinformation on their services, through user empowerment, transparency of political advertising, measures against manipulative behaviour, as well as cooperation with independent fact-checkers and researchers.

    The upcoming Democracy Shield will aim to protect and promote democracy in the EU. The Shield will look at ways to reinforce digital and media literacy and prevention through pre-bunking. The Commission intends to strengthen a European network of fact-checkers and make it available in all languages.

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_23_6709
    • [2] Regulation (EU) 2022/2065 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 October 2022 on a Single Market for Digital Services and amending Directive 2000/31/EC.
    • [3] Commission Recommendation (EU) 2023/2829 of 12 December 2023 on inclusive and resilient electoral processes in the Union and enhancing the European nature and efficient conduct of the elections to the European Parliament.
    • [4] Regulation (EU) 2024/900 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 March 2024 on the transparency and targeting of political advertising.
    Last updated: 24 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Failure to make an arrest for the Nord Stream gas pipelines – E-002764/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    As already indicated in the reply to parliamentary Question E-001695/2024, which was also related to the destruction of the Nord Stream pipeline, the European arrest warrant is a judicial procedure between judicial authorities in the Member States based on the particular circumstances of each individual case where surrender is requested.

    Neither the Commission nor the Member States’ governments can interfere or influence decisions taken by judicial authorities.

    The European Union Agency for Criminal Justice Cooperation is tasked to facilitate the execution of requests for, and decisions on, judicial cooperation, including requests and decisions based on the European arrest warrant.

    Last updated: 24 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Inadequate impact assessment of the proposal for a directive harmonising certain aspects of insolvency law (2022/0408(COD)) – E-002904/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The impact assessment on the proposal for the Insolvency Directive[1] included a direct consultation carried out by the Commission, and an additional study which included further consultations. The Study was published on the Commission website[2].

    The Commission ensured that there was a balanced geographical distribution of stakeholders and experts consulted. Its direct consultation was open to all stakeholders and published on the Commission website[3]: stakeholders consulted came from 18 Member States and dedicated workshops with private and governmental experts were organised.

    Contractor’s consultation was performed via direct interviews with stakeholders from 15 EU Member States, including the Netherlands, and through an online survey targeting more than 800 stakeholders covering 24 Member States with 120 completed responses[4].

    Since most stakeholders and experts favoured a harmonisation of directors’ duties in the vicinity of insolvency and in view of its economic benefits as assessed in the impact assessment, the Commission proposed a requirement to request the opening of insolvency proceedings within three months[5].

    • [1] SWD(2022) 395 final.
    • [2] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights/civil-justice/civil-and-commercial-law/insolvency-proceedings_en#research-and-key-documents.
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/12592-Insolvency-laws-increasing-convergence-of-national-laws-to-encourage-cross-border-investment/public-consultation_en
    • [4] Annex 2 of the impact assessment and Section 2.3. of the impact assessment study.
    • [5] Sections 2.2., 2.6. and 3 of Appendix to Annex 2 of the impact assessment.
    Last updated: 24 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah interacts with 250 children from Jammu and Kashmir under ‘Watan Ko Jano’ programme in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah interacts with 250 children from Jammu and Kashmir under ‘Watan Ko Jano’ programme in New Delhi

    The main objective of the ‘Watan Ko Jano’ programme is to familiarize the youth of J&K with the social and cultural diversities of the country and to bring about an emotional connect among them

    PM Modi united the entire country by abolishing Article 370, now the children of Kashmir have as much right over the country as the children of any other state

    Our goal is to make Jammu and Kashmir such that not a single person of Jammu and Kashmir dies due to terrorism

    The peace that has come to Jammu and Kashmir has to be converted into permanent peace

    In the last 10 years, stone pelting, bomb blasts and terrorism have ended in Jammu and Kashmir and development has gained new momentum

    Union Home Minister appeals to the children to go back and talk about peace, harmony and development to their families, friends and villages

    Posted On: 24 FEB 2025 8:24PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah interacted with 250 children from Jammu and Kashmir under ‘Watan Ko Jano’ programme in New Delhi today. Union Home Secretary and Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB) were also present on the occasion. The program aims to introduce the youth and children of Jammu and Kashmir to the nation’s dynamic progress, rich social fabric, and cultural diversity, fostering a strong sense of social, cultural, and emotional connection.

     

     

    During the interaction, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah described the ‘Watan Ko Jano’ program as an initiative to deepen the understanding of our country. He said that our country is our home and just as we are familiar with every part of our home, we should also know our country in the same way. Shri Shah said that this vision led the Government of India to launch the ‘Watan Ko Jano’ program. Home Minister said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has united the whole country by abolishing Article 370 and now the citizens of Kashmir have the same rights on the country as the citizens of any other state.

     

    Shri Amit Shah underlined that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, significant efforts have been made over the past decade to make India prosperous, modern, and a global leader. He expressed confidence that in the future, students from around the world will come to India for education. As India advances, it will naturally drive progress for all. Home Minister emphasized that a more prosperous, modern, and developed India will bring benefits to everyone.

    Union Home Minister said that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed significant development in education, industry, healthcare, and infrastructure. He highlighted that the world’s highest railway arch bridge, Asia’s largest tunnel, and the country’s only cable suspension bridge have all been built in Kashmir. Jammu and Kashmir is also the only region in India to have two All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), along with two Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). It also has 24 major colleges, and eight universities. He emphasized that Kashmir, once badly affected by bomb blasts and terrorism, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade. Incidents of stone pelting, bomb blasts, and terrorism have been eliminated, allowing schools to function smoothly. Infrastructure development, including roads, hospitals, and universities, has progressed rapidly. Moreover, 36,000 elected public representatives now have their rightful authority at the Panchayat and Municipality levels, strengthening grassroots democracy in the region.

    Shri Amit Shah said that development can only happen when there is peace. He said no one benefits from terrorism. In the last 30 years, 38 thousand people have been killed in Kashmir due to violence. Shri Shah said that there has been an 80 per cent reduction in the death of civilians in Kashmir, and people are happy about this, but true happiness will come when not a single citizen of Jammu and Kashmir loses their life. Union Home Minister said that it is our goal to make Jammu and Kashmir a place where not a single person dies due to terrorism. He said that the responsibility of creating such a Jammu and Kashmir lies with the children and youth.

     

     

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation told the children that the entire country belongs to them and they should go back to Kashmir with the same spirit. He said that peace and tranquility is the most important thing and peace has come there under the rule of PM Modi. He said that under the Modi government, educational systems have been established, industries have come, hospitals have been built, drinking water facilities have been provided, and large infrastructure projects have been carried out. Shri Shah stated that no government can maintain peace in Jammu and Kashmir, only children can do so. He mentioned that if every child in Jammu and Kashmir explains to their parents and neighbours that the entire country belongs to us, and we need to live in peace with everyone while driving terrorism out of here, then there will be no need for police or army. He further said that the day is not far when there will be no weapons in anyone’s hands, and there will be no need for police or army with weapons.

    Shri Amit Shah appealed to the children to go back to their villages and talk to their parents, siblings, friends, relatives, and people in their village about peace, harmony, and development. He said that this country belongs to everyone, and it is important to instill this belief in the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Shri Shah said that Prime Minister Modi has brought so much development to the country, creating numerous avenues and opportunities that await the youth and children, and they should take advantage of these opportunities. He added that we all must work together to transform the peace established in Jammu and Kashmir into lasting peace.

     

    Two hundred fifty children from weaker sections of Jammu and Kashmir including 62 girls and 188 boys in the age group of 9-18 years visited Jaipur, Ajmer and Delhi under ‘Watan Ko Jano’ programme organized by Social Welfare Department of the Govt of J&K in coordination with Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). During their exposure trip, started on 15th February, 2025, the children visited many important and historic places in Jaipur and Ajmer. They reached Delhi on 23rd February to meet dignitaries and to visit Qutub Minar, Red Fort and other important places in the national capital. The children will return to Jammu & Kashmir on 27th February, 2025.

    The Ministry of Home Affairs and Government of Jammu and Kashmir have been conducting Youth Exchange programme.  The main objective of the programme is to expose the youth and children of Jammu and Kashmir to vibrant development and social and cultural diversity of India so that they can feel socially, culturally and emotionally integrated with rest of the country. The programme is expected to have positive impact on the thinking of the youth.

    Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, the MHA is committed to such initiatives for development and progress of youth and children of Jammu and Kashmir. ‘Watan Ko Jano’ programme in one such initiative through which, children of terrorism affected families and/or weaker sections of society in Jammu and Kashmir identified by J&K Rehabilitation Council are taken for exposure trip.

    The youth and children are mainly selected from the various orphanages in the districts of J&K. Preference is given to children from terrorism affected families, destitute children and children from weaker sections. The other criterion for selection apart from socio economic background, is proficiency in education, sports and cultural activities.  So far, about 2868 youth/children have participated in ‘Watan Ko Jano’ programme.

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    RK/VV/ASH/PR/PS

    (Release ID: 2105908) Visitor Counter : 98

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi participates in Jhumoir Binandini programme in Guwahati, Assam

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 FEB 2025 8:17PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi participated in the Jhumoir Binandini 2025, a Mega Jhumoir programme in Guwahati, Assam today. Addressing the gathering, he said there was a reverberating atmosphere filled with energy, enthusiasm and excitement at the event. He noted the impressive preparations by all the artists of the Jhumoir, which reflected the fragrance and beauty of the tea gardens. He mentioned that just as the people have a special bond with the Jhumar and tea garden culture, he too shares a similar connection. He added that such a large number of artists performing the Jhumar dance today will set a record. Recalling his visit to Assam in 2023 when a record was made involving 11,000 artists performing Bihu Dance, the Prime Minister said that it was an unforgettable memory for him and added that he was anticipating a similar enthralling performance. He congratulated the Government of Assam and its Chief Minister for organizing a resplendent cultural performance. He noted that today is a proud day for Assam, with the tea community and the tribal people participating in the celebrations. He conveyed his best wishes to everyone on this special day.

    Noting that such grand events were not only a testament to the pride of Assam, but also showcase India’s great diversity, the Prime Minister noted that there was a time when Assam and the Northeast were neglected in terms of development and culture. He highlighted that now, he himself has become the brand ambassador of Northeastern culture. He mentioned that he is the first Prime Minister to stay in Kaziranga, Assam, and promote its biodiversity to the world. He also noted that a few months ago, the Assamese language was granted the status of a classical language, a recognition the people of Assam had been waiting for decades. Additionally, Charai Deu Moidam has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage list, a significant achievement attributed to the efforts of their Government, he added.

    Talking about the pride of Assam, the brave warrior Lachit Borphukan, who defended Assam’s culture and identity against the Mughals, Shri Modi highlighted the grand celebration of Lachit Borphukan’s 400th birth anniversary and mentioned that his tableau was also included in the Republic Day parade. The Prime Minister noted that a 125-foot bronze statue of Lachit Borphukan has been erected in Assam. He also mentioned the initiation of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas to celebrate the heritage of the tribal society. To immortalize the contributions of the tribal bravehearts, tribal museums are being established across the country, he added.

    Remarking that their Government is developing Assam and serving the ‘Tea Tribe’ community, the Prime Minister highlighted the announcement of bonuses for Assam Tea Corporation workers to increase their income. He emphasized the support being provided to approximately 1.5 lakh women in tea gardens, who receive ₹15,000 during pregnancy to alleviate financial concerns. Additionally, the Assam government is opening over 350 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs in tea gardens for the families’ health, he added. Shri Modi noted that more than 100 model tea garden schools have been opened for the children of the Tea Tribe, with another 100 schools planned. He also mentioned the provision of a 3% reservation in the OBC quota for the youth of the Tea Tribe and the assistance of ₹25,000 for self-employment provided by the Assam government. The Prime Minister expressed confidence that the development of the tea industry and its workers will drive the overall growth of Assam and elevate the Northeast to new heights. He extended his advance thanks to all the participants for their upcoming performance and wished them well. 

    The Governor of Assam, Shri Lakshman Prasad Acharya, Chief Minister of Assam, Shri Himanta Biswa Sarma, Union Ministers Dr. S Jaishankar, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Chief Minister of Tripura, Dr. Manik Saha, Union Minister of State, Shri Pabitra Margherita were present among other dignitaries at the event.

    Background

    The Jhumoir Binandini (Mega Jhumoir) 2025, is a spectacular cultural extravaganza with 8,000 performers participating in the Jhumoir dance, a folk dance of Assam Tea Tribe and Adivasi Communities of Assam that embodies the spirit of inclusivity, unity and cultural pride, and symbolises Assam’s syncretic cultural mélange. The Mega Jhumoir event symbolises 200 years of the tea industry, and also 200 years of industrialisation in Assam.

     

     

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    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2105906) Visitor Counter : 55

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Inaugurates the First-ever Regional Dialogue on Social Justice

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Inaugurates the First-ever Regional Dialogue on Social Justice

    74th Foundation Day of the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) Celebrated

    Director General, ILO, Gilbert F. Houngbo Praises India’s Efforts in Doubling Social Protection Coverage to 49%

    Posted On: 24 FEB 2025 8:05PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated the first-ever two-day Regional Dialogue on Social Justice under the Global Coalition for Social Justice in New Delhi today. Director General, International Labour Organization (ILO), Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo, graced the event with his presence. Union Minister of State for Labour & Employment, Ms. Shobha Karandlaje, Secretary (Labour & Employment), Ms. Sumita Dawra, along with other dignitaries were also present at this prestigious international dialogue.

    Commemorating the 74th Foundation Day of the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), an award ceremony to felicitate achievements across its organisations was also held.

    Launched in 2023, the Global Coalition for Social Justice calls for a collaborative approach and commitment towards promoting decent work, social protection, responsible business conduct and fair work. The Global Coalition has around 340 members of the Global Coalition including Governments, academia, private sector, financial institutions, etc.

    Addressing the gathering, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, emphasized India’s role as a proud member of the Asia Pacific Coordinating Group, leading the first Regional Dialogue. He expressed joy in championing the key Coalition intervention, stating, “India is privileged to spearhead the initiative on Responsible Business Practices for Sustainable and Inclusive Societies.” Union Minister commended the BMS and the CII-EFI’s shared commitment to ethical and sustainable business practices, respect for workers’ rights, and inclusive economic growth. “Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has undertaken significant steps towards economic transformation. The next five years present a unique opportunity to realize our vision of ‘Sabka Vikas’—balanced growth for all regions and communities,” he asserted.

    During the occasion, Dr. Mandaviya launched the e-Shram mobile app, a key step in strengthening social benefits delivery by offering real-time access to government welfare schemes, intelligent benefit filtering, curated job listings aligned with users’ skills and location, and multilingual support.

    Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo, Director-General of the ILO, congratulated the Government of India for the efforts in doubling India’s social protection from 24.4% to 48.8% as reported in the World Social Protection Report (WSPR) 2024. Recognizing India’s important role in ILO’s leadership, DG ILO remarked that India’s efforts in business growth along with social protection serves as a good example to inspire change and improve social protection systems across the world. He mentioned that this remarkable achievement is an outcome of the decisive actions taken by the Central Government in expanding social protection in the past few years.

    Union Minister of State for Labour & Employment, Smt. Shobha Karandlaje, emphasized that social justice cannot be achieved through a one-size-fit-all approach. She underscored that social justice is embedded in India’s constitutional commitments. Reiterating India’s remarkable progress reported in the WSPR, she highlighted that India’s efforts in improving social protection, drove a 5% increase in the global social protection coverage. Congratulating ESIC on its 74th Foundation Day, she acknowledged its role in strengthening social security and announced the government’s plans to extend coverage to unorganized, agricultural, construction, gig, and platform workers.

    Addressing the gathering, Secretary MoLE, Smt. Sumita Dawra, praised the ILO’s Global Coalition for Social Justice for strengthening global cooperation. Highlighting India as the fastest-growing major economy with a vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047, she emphasized the country’s foundation on social justice principles, strong demographic dividend with 65% of the population under the age of 35, and a commitment to employment generation, equity, and welfare. She reiterated India’s goal of achieving 70% females engaged in economic activity by 2047, and applauded industry leaders for adopting responsible business practices, including youth skill development, education, and women’s workforce participation.

    During the occasion, India’s largest workers association, the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) joined the Global Coalition for Social Justice. Through a Joint Statement on Responsible Business Conduct presented by the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) and the Confederation of Indian Industry-Employers’ Federation of India (CII-EFI), these organisations showcased their commitment towards this agenda.

    Additionally, several key publications were unveiled, including Best Practices on Responsible Business Conduct in India, Position Paper on Transforming India’s Social Protection Landscape through Data Pooling, Compendium of Social Protection in India, Social Security for Informal Workers: Reflections & Learnings from ISSA-ESIC International Seminar, 2025, and Shram Samarth: A Journey to Excellence.

    An exhibition on the sidelines of the event showcased the innovative use of technology in labour welfare, social security, medical care, personnel management, industrial safety, and more. Participants demonstrated how technology is driving positive change in the ecosystem, enhancing services and outreach for workers.

    A series of insightful technical sessions brought together global experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to advance discussions on youth empowerment, social justice, and inclusion. These sessions explored strategies to bridge the education-to-employment gap, expand social protection for informal workers, and promote gender equality in the workforce. Key stakeholders from India, the Philippines, Namibia, Germany, Australia, Brazil, and international organizations such as the ILO and UN Women shared best practices, including digital skilling platforms, social security frameworks, and gender-responsive workplace policies. Emphasizing collaboration and innovation, the discussions reinforced the importance of public-private partnerships in fostering inclusive economic growth and ensuring equitable opportunities for all.

    Today’s event showcases the progress India has made on the global centre stage. India’s social justice growth journey including 3.2% unemployment rate, modernized labour codes, 48.8% social protection coverage, partnering with ILO on determining living wages, building responsible business conduct, showcasing success business case studies, leading the regional agenda in Asia Pacific, is an epitome of India’s confidence and critical positioning.

    Taking a collaborative approach to further strengthening India’s social protection coverage, making significant strides in developing the G20 international referencing classification of occupations, and advancing the decent work country programme with focus on living wages, AI and Future of Work and Global Value Chains, the two-day summit will prove to be a pathbreaking initiative and a global movement for strengthened cooperation.

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    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2105900) Visitor Counter : 28

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “Indian Railways is marching towards achieving the objective of Net Zero” -Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw

    Source: Government of India

    “Indian Railways is marching towards achieving the objective of Net Zero” -Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw

    Power purchasing agreement of 170 MW signed between Indian Railways and Madhya Pradesh Government, marking the procurement of cheapest renewable energy in India

    Railways Minister Urges states to share solar & wind energy to Indian Railways

    Till date, Indian Railway has tied up 4,260 MW (installed) of Solar and 3,427 MW (installed) of wind energy for its energy requirements

    Commitment to achieve 100% electrification in Railways and maximize renewable energy usage

    Posted On: 24 FEB 2025 7:40PM by PIB Delhi

    Addressing investors and entrepreneurs at the Global Investors Summit 2025 in Bhopal, Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & IT, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw outlined Indian Railways’ vision for electrification and the adoption of alternative energy sources.

    Shri Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, and Shri Rakesh Shukla, Minister of New and Renewable Energy, Government of Madhya Pradesh were also present in the event.

    Participating via video conferencing from Rail Bhawan, the Union Railway Minister emphasized the Indian government’s goal to achieve ‘Net Zero’ carbon emissions for Indian Railways, with 100% electrification slated for completion in the 2025-26 financial year. The next objective is to maximize renewable energy procurement.

    With this vision, Indian Railways has already tied up 1,500 MW of renewable energy. Further strengthening this commitment, a significant 170 MW Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) was signed today with the Madhya Pradesh government. This milestone marks the procurement of India’s cheapest solar power at Rs 2.15/kWh and the Minister reaffirmed enthusiasm for exploring wind and nuclear energy procurement. The Government of Madhya Pradesh, through Rewa Ultra Mega Solar Power Limited (RUMSL), is supplying solar power to Indian Railways from its largest solar park.

    Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw commended Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shri Mohan Yadav for his active role in advancing railway development in the state. He reiterated the Indian government’s strong commitment to a sustainable and green future for the country’s transportation network.

    Today’s PPA was signed between key stakeholders, including West Central Railway (WCR), represented by Dy. CEE/HQ Shri Chetan Gulwani; RUMSL, represented by Executive Engineer Shri Avneesh Shukla; and Waree Forever Energies Pvt Ltd, the solar power developer.

    The Minister also added that Indian Railways is committed to achieving net-zero emissions and shifting from road to rail transport to promote environmental sustainability, reduce oil imports, and lower overall logistics costs. As part of this vision, it is meeting its energy requirements through non-fossil sources such as solar, wind, and nuclear power. The collaboration with RUMSL is a significant step in this direction.

    In addition to setting up its own solar systems, Indian Railways is also securing solar power through PPA arrangements with developers. By 2030, Indian Railways’ traction power requirement is projected to reach 10,000 MW. So far, it has secured 4,260 MW of installed solar capacity and 3,427 MW of installed wind capacity to meet its energy needs, the Minister said.

    Call for Nationwide Collaboration in Renewable Energy

    Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw urged all Indian states to contribute renewable energy—be it solar, wind, hydro, or nuclear power—to Indian Railways, emphasizing a collaborative approach to sustainable energy. He praised the successful partnership model between the Railway Ministry and the Government of Madhya Pradesh, which facilitates direct PPA agreements between the state’s energy generators and Indian Railways.

    Historic Budget Allocation for Madhya Pradesh Rail Infrastructure

    Highlighting the record-breaking budget of ₹14,745 crore allocated to Madhya Pradesh’s railway sector for FY 2025-26, the Minister stated that this is the highest-ever budgetary allocation for the state. Infrastructure development has accelerated significantly, with railway track laying increasing from 29 km per year before 2014 to 230 km per year today—a 7.5x increase.

    Overview of RUMSL

    Parameter

    Details

    Capacity

    1500 MW

    Solar Parks Location

    Agar, Shajapur, and Neemuch districts in Northwest Madhya Pradesh

    Quantum to Railway

    195 MW equivalent (Total installed 400 MW) (Annual Solar Power Supply is 757 Million Units)

    Tariff

    Rs 2.15 /kWh for Neemuch unit (lowest in the country)

    CUF (Capacity Utilization Factor)

    44.3% under Optimum Scheduling

    Joint Venture Partners

    Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) and Madhya Pradesh Urja Vikas Nigam Limited (MPUVNL)

    PPA Duration

    25 years

    Nodal Railway

    WCR (Power supplied via grid to Indian Railways in six states)

    Target Completion Date

    December 2025

     

    Tied up solar Installed capacity with Indian Railways:

    Project

    Installed Capacity (in MW)

    Rooftop of stations and Rly service building

    203

    Bhilai

    50

    MCF

    3.13

    Diwana

    2

    Bina

    1.7

    RUMS (Rewa)

    400

    BSUL (Bundelkhand)

    800

    IRCON (Pavagarh, Karnataka)

    500

    RERTC (SECI) (Rajasthan)

    100

    900 MW RERTC (Bikaner NTPC, Jaisalmer 450 MW, Fatehgarh 200 MW)

    1300

    600 MW RERTC (NTPC, Bikaner, TEQ Green Barmer)

    901

    Total

    4260.83

     

    About the Rewa Ultra Mega Solar Power Limited (RUMSL)

    RUMSL, designated as a Solar Power Park Developer (SPPD) by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), was entrusted with developing large-scale solar parks in Madhya Pradesh under the Ultra Mega Renewable Energy Power Projects (UMREPP) scheme of the Government of India. To ensure efficiency and expertise in executing and operating such large-scale projects, RUMSL adopted the DBFOO (Design, Build, Finance, Own, and Operate) model. The initiative significantly contributed to India’s renewable energy sector, increasing the country’s solar power generation capacity by 2.50%. Notably, it achieved the lowest-ever tariff awarded for a solar public-private partnership (PPP) in India, at INR 2.97 per kWh, without any viability gap funding from the government. Recognized for its innovation and impact, the project was included in the Prime Minister’s “Book of Innovation” and was honored with the prestigious “President Award” from the World Bank.

    ****

    Dharmendra Tewari/Shatrunjay Kumar

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Film Poster Making Competition

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 24 FEB 2025 7:37PM by PIB Delhi

    Where Art Meets Film

     

    Introduction

    India’s deep connection to cinema is reflected in its iconic film posters which capture stories and emotions. To celebrate this art form the World Audio-Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES) introduces the Film Poster Making Challenge as part of the ‘Create in India Challenge Season 1.’ In association with NFDC-National Film Archive of India, the International Federation of Film Archives and ImageNation Street Art, this competition highlights the rich heritage of Indian film posters. With 296 registrations already the event promises a vibrant showcase of creativity.

    The World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) in its first edition is a unique hub and spoke platform poised for the convergence of the entire Media and Entertainment (M&E) sector.

     

    The event is a premier global event that aims to bring the focus of the global M&E industry to India and connect it with the Indian M&E sector along with its talent.

    The summit will take place from May 1-4, 2025 at the Jio World Convention Centre & Jio World Gardens in Mumbai. With a focus on four key pillars—Broadcasting & Infotainment, AVGC-XR, Digital Media & Innovation, and Films-WAVES will bring together leaders, creators and technologists to showcase the future of India’s entertainment industry.

    The Film Poster Making competition falls under the fourth pillar Films, which is centered around celebrating the essence of Indian cinema. It highlights the artistic richness and craftsmanship behind iconic film posters with a particular focus on reimagining them for contemporary audiences.

    Competition Category

    The Film Poster Making Competition will be held in two categories:

    Digital Posters

    Registration:

    For the Digital Poster category began on October 1st and will remain open until March 15th, 2025. There is no registration fee for participation. To register visit the website and select one film from the 20 titles displayed in the image:

    Important Deadlines:

    All artworks must be submitted by the specified deadline mentioned in the timeline:

    1. Poster design entries open: October 1st – March 15th 2025
    2. Final artwork must be submitted by: March 15th 2025
    3. Winner announcement: 1st April, 2025
    4. Selected artist’s exhibition and award ceremony: April, 2025

    Specifications for Submission of Artwork:

    Upload your artwork at 300 DPI in CMYK as a JPEG/PNG file. The poster should be in a vertical orientation:

    • Standard Size: 24 x 36 inches (aspect ratio 2:3)
    • Alternate Size: 18 x 24 inches (aspect ratio 3:4)
    • Maximum File Size: 10 MB
    • Kindly name the artwork with the following file naming structure: artistname_filmname_year_waves2024.jpeg

    Awards and Recognition:

    Outstanding digital posters will be recognized with the top 20 selected artworks showcased at the WAVES Summit and out of 20 top 3 receiving prestigious awards. Cash prizes and digital certificates of appreciation will be awarded. Here are the details:

    Hand Painted Posters

    Registration

    Candidates can participate in the hand-painted film poster-making competition through selected art institutions. Institutions interested in hosting the competition can email imagenationstreetart[at]gmail[dot]com with nfaifilmcircle@nfdcindia in cc.

    • The posters must be based on 20 film titles, the same as those in the digital poster-making list.
    • Each institution will choose three candidates from their internal competition to represent them in the semi-finals.
    • This competition is exclusive to institutions and not open to individual participants.

    Important Deadlines:

    1. Internal college competitions: November 1st – March 15th 2025
    2. Shortlisted candidate announced: 1st April, 2025

    Guidelines for Finale:

    Here are the guidelines for the live handmade poster-making competition:

    • The film titles options for the live handmade poster-making competition will be announced 10 days before the live event.
    • Participants and their institutions must bring all required materials.
    • The organizers will communicate travel details to the participants at a later stage.

    Specifications for the live painting competition:

    • Materials: Participants must bring their own materials. The medium should be suitable paper for handmade poster design.
    • Poster Size: 24 x 36 inches (vertical)

    Awards and Recognition:

    A total of 25 selected artists will compete in a live event chosen through a juried selection from all submitted entries. They will create hand-painted posters within a set time frame at the WAVES Summit with the top three artworks receiving prestigious awards. The awards include a First Prize of INR 50,000, a Second Prize of INR 30,000, and a Third Prize of INR 10,000, with certificates for the top three winners. Additionally, a Digital Certificate of Appreciation will be awarded to the remaining participants, along with their respective cash prizes.

    Registration

    Registration for the competition began on February 5th, 2025 and will close on March 5th, 2025. There is no fee for participation, and you can register and submit your artwork through the provided link on website. Choose one film from the 10 available titles to create your poster.

    Important Deadlines:

    All artworks must be submitted by the specified deadline mentioned in the timeline:

    • Registration and Submission Period: Feb 5, 2025 – March 5, 2025
    • Winner Announcement: April 1, 2025
    • Exhibition and Award Ceremony: April 2025

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Open to individuals of any nationality outside India.
    • Participants must be 18 years or older.

    Specifications for Submission of Artwork:

    Upload your artwork at 300 DPI in CMYK as a JPEG/PNG file. The poster should be in a vertical orientation:

    • Standard Size: 24 x 36 inches (aspect ratio 2:3)
    • Alternate Size: 18 x 24 inches (aspect ratio 3:4)
    • Maximum File Size: 10 MB
    •  

    Awards and Recognition:

    The International Digital Poster Making Competition will recognize and celebrate outstanding creativity with awards and recognition for exceptional entries. Here are the key highlights:

    • The top 20 selected digital artworks will be showcased at the WAVES Summit.
    • The top 3 artworks from the exhibition will be honored with prestigious awards.
    • Additional details on the awards will be declared soon.

    Conclusion

    The Film Poster Making Competition at WAVES offers a unique opportunity to celebrate and showcase creativity in both digital and hand-painted art forms. Through this platform artists from around the world can connect, create and be part of the vibrant future of the entertainment industry culminating in a prestigious exhibition and award ceremony at the WAVES Summit in May 2025.

    References:

    1. https://wavesindia.org/challenges-2025
    2. https://www.nfdcindia.com/waves-poster-challenge-2025/
    3. https://x.com/WAVESummitIndia/status/1845466425575735387

    Click here to download PDF

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    Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Kamna Lakaria

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 22nd EGM: IREDA Shareholders Approve up to ₹5,000 Crore Fundraising via QIP

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 FEB 2025 7:11PM by PIB Delhi

    Shareholders of Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA) have approved the company’s proposal to raise up to ₹5,000 crore through Qualified Institutions Placement (QIP) of equity shares, in one or multiple tranches. The approval was granted by the shareholders in favour of the resolution via remote e-voting during the 22nd Extra-Ordinary General Meeting (EGM) held today through video conferencing. The meeting was chaired by Shri Pradip Kumar Das, Chairman and Managing Director, IREDA and attended by Directors on the Board and shareholders.

    IREDA’s Board had earlier approved the fundraising plan on January 23, 2025, which includes the dilution of the Government of India’s shareholding in the company by up to 7% post-issue equity, in one or multiple tranches.

    Addressing the shareholders, Shri Pradip Kumar Das, CMD, highlighted IREDA’s strong financial performance in the first nine months of FY 2024-25, with a loan book of ₹68,960 crore, loan sanctions of ₹31,087 crore, and disbursements of ₹17,236 crore. “The funds raised through QIP will strengthen our green financing capabilities, accelerate loan book growth, and support India’s clean energy targets,” he stated.

    Shri Das further informed shareholders that IREDA Global Green Energy Finance IFSC Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of IREDA, recently received the Certificate of Registration from the International Financial Services Centre Authority (IFSCA), allowing it to commence business as a Finance Company at GIFT City, Gujarat. “This milestone strengthens IREDA’s commitment to lending and serving in foreign currency by reducing hedging risks,” he added.

    In addition to the fundraising approval, shareholders also consented to amendments in IREDA’s Articles of Association. These amendments include provisions for formation of joint ventures and subsidiaries in India and abroad, along with empowering the Board to exercise enhanced powers under ‘Navratna’ status, subject to government guidelines.

    *********

     

    Navin Sreejith 

    (Release ID: 2105878) Visitor Counter : 40

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by FS at Kuwait National Day Reception (English only) (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, at Kuwait National Day Reception today (February 24):Consul General (Consul General and Ambassador of the State of Kuwait in Hong Kong, Mr Naser S Al-Ghanim), Deputy Commissioner Pan (Deputy Commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Mr Pan Yundong), Your Excellencies, Consuls General, ladies and gentlemen,     Good evening.      It is my great pleasure to be here tonight to celebrate with you the 64th National Day of the State of Kuwait.     Kuwait is the first Gulf country to establish diplomatic relations with China. You are also an active participant in our country’s Belt and Road Initiative.       These provide a solid foundation for the growing ties between our two economies. As alluded to earlier by the CG (Consul General), it is heartening to see that our bilateral trade is growing rapidly. Last year, the bilateral goods trade between Hong Kong and Kuwait rose more than 20 per cent year on year, reaching more than US$240 million. On many other fronts, our connections are deepening.       And this is part of a burgeoning relationship between Hong Kong and the Gulf countries. Over the past two years or so, the Chief Executive, myself as well as senior government officials and corporate leaders have been leading delegations to the region, seeking to strengthen connections with our partners in trade, finance, legal services, innovation and technology, cultural exchanges, and much more.       With Kuwait’s presidency of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in 2025 under the leadership of the Amir, much is anticipated on what we can do together to boost our bilateral ties, and the Hong Kong-Gulf relations at large. Indeed, the Secretary-General of the Council, His Excellency Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi, also a Kuwait national, came to Hong Kong last month to attend the Asian Financial Forum. I also had a fruitful meeting with His Excellency at the World Economic Forum annual meeting in Davos.        There is a strong will from both sides to strengthen co-operation on multiple fronts. In particular, Hong Kong wants to advance discussions on signing a free trade agreement with the GCC, and looks forward to the support from Kuwait and other Council members. We believe that solidifying our trade partnership will only be beneficial to our respective economies. In light of rapidly changing geopolitical dynamics marked by unilateralism and protectionism, it calls for action to build a fair, open and more resilient global economic and trade system.        Hong Kong is a perfect partner for Kuwait in realising the Kuwait Vision 2035, which covers your nation’s strategic and forward-looking plans for infrastructure development, digital transformation, green transition and global participation, and, above all, a more diversified economy.       Under the “one country, two systems” arrangement, Hong Kong is a place that enjoys unique connectivity with both the Mainland and the rest of the world. We are a converging point of global capital, investors and talent, the gateway not only to China but also the rest of Asia. Kuwaiti businesses and entrepreneurs can capitalise on the city’s full suite of fund-raising options, world-class professional services, and extensive transport and logistics network to expand and thrive.      Hong Kong is keen to share knowledge and expertise with Kuwait, and find new growth frontiers together. For example, Hong Kong’s start-ups, with innovative solutions ranging from AI (artificial intelligence) to biotech, and from greentech to fintech, are keen to support the exciting projects in your country.      Ladies and gentlemen, the promising prospects for our co-operation extend well beyond – to education, arts and culture, and much more.      Since 2023, Kuwait has been actively participating in our Asia+ Festival, giving our residents a taste of your country’s rich cultural heritage. Your Kuwaiti Culture, Art and Literature Week last year, with a host of community-based activities, was a heartening success.       And I can’t tell you how delighted I am to meet with some of Kuwait’s brightest students who are studying in Hong Kong tonight. You are the ambassadors who will build more bridges of understanding and friendship between our two economies.       With all the goodwill and friendship, I am confident that the bonds between Hong Kong and Kuwait will flourish and endure for generations to come.      For that, ladies and gentlemen, please join me now in a toast: to the people of Kuwait.     Cheers.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Mobilizing Finance is Key to Achieving 500 GW Renewable Energy by 2030: Union Minister Pralhad Joshi

    Source: Government of India

    Mobilizing Finance is Key to Achieving 500 GW Renewable Energy by 2030: Union Minister Pralhad Joshi

    Renewable Energy Financing Obligation is the need of the hour: Union Minister Joshi National Workshop on Mobilizing Finance for Renewable Energy Concludes in Mumbai

    Posted On: 24 FEB 2025 6:25PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai : 24 February 2025

    Mobilising finance is key to achieving 500 GW Renewable Energy by 2030, said Union Minister for New & Renewable Energy Shri Pralhad Joshi. He was addressing the National Workshop on Mobilizing Finance for Renewable Energy organised by Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy in Mumbai today. Union Minister Joshi also called for collective efforts from financial institutions and policymakers to ensure accessible funding to Renewable Energy (RE) sector. The Minister along with the Minister of State, (MNRE), Shri Shripad Naik also addressed a Press Conference held in conjunction with the Workshop.

    Highlights of the Workshop

    The Minister stated that the idea for the workshop emerged after a review meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where discussions focused on accelerating flagship schemes like PM Surya Ghar and PM-KUSUM. Highlighting the scale of India’s energy needs, Shri Joshi said that as the country aims to become the third-largest economy, its energy demand is expected to double. He stressed that renewable energy must be scaled up to match thermal energy production, ensuring a reliable and resilient power supply.

    The Minister also spoke about India’s commitment to achieving Net Zero by 2070 and reaching 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based capacity by 2030. He called upon financial institutions to align their lending policies with India’s renewable energy growth strategy and emphasized that carbon-intensive industries will face reduced export opportunities in the future. Shri Joshi noted that India has already made significant progress in renewable energy, with capacity increasing to 222 GW today. He pointed out that solar tariffs have drastically reduced, with a recent bid in Madhya Pradesh touching ₹2.15 per unit, compared to ₹11 per unit earlier. However, he stressed the importance of battery storage solutions to support large-scale renewable deployment.

    Speaking on the role of decentralization, the Minister highlighted that PM-KUSUM and PM Surya Ghar empower farmers to become “Urjadata” (energy providers), while also reducing transmission losses. He urged banks to simplify financing processes, particularly for rooftop solar projects, and called for the introduction of a Renewable Energy Financing Obligation to ensure dedicated funding for the sector, similar to Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPOs) for discoms.
    Shri Joshi underscored India’s leadership in green hydrogen (GH2), stating that the country has already received major export orders and is ahead of several developed nations in this field. He noted that global investors are increasingly looking at India as a preferred destination for manufacturing and clean energy investments, recognizing its young workforce and strong industrial capacity.

    The Minister also highlighted Prime Minister Modi’s directive to engage global financial institutions for renewable energy investments, citing India’s recent success in securing commitments worth ₹34.5 lakh crore during a global RE summit in Gandhinagar. He emphasized that the transition to renewable energy is not optional—it is a necessity.Concluding his address, Shri Pralhad Joshi called for a national movement in renewable energy financing, stating that PM Surya Ghar is not just a scheme but an Andolan (movement). He urged financial institutions to streamline lending processes, reduce unnecessary compliance burdens, and adopt a more supportive approach towards financing clean energy projects.

    Union Minister of State for Power and New & Renewable Energy Shri Shripad Y Naik said that achieving 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030 will require an investment of approximately ₹30 lakh crore, covering infrastructure, transmission, and storage systems. He urged the stakeholders to adopt innovative financing models, extend flexible lending terms, and prioritize green investments that will accelerate our energy transition.

    In her context setting speech, Secretary MNRE Smt. Nidhi Khare emphasized the critical role of affordable finance, green bonds, and innovative funding models in driving India’s renewable energy transition.

    The National Workshop on Mobilizing Finance for Renewable Energy featured four key sessions focused on addressing financing challenges in the renewable energy sector. The first session examined the financing landscape for utility-scale renewable energy (RE) projects, assessing challenges faced by developers, banks, and NBFCs in securing funding. Discussions covered interest rates, perceived risks, and potential solutions for financial institutions to support large-scale RE projects. The second session focused on financing new and emerging RE technologies, such as offshore wind, floating solar, and green hydrogen. Panelists, including experts from NABARD, and leading financial institutions, discussed capital allocation strategies, policy interventions, and mechanisms to reduce financial risks for private sector investments in these technologies.

    The third session addressed financing challenges for Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) and innovative RE applications, including rooftop solar, canal-top PV, and Agri-PV. Experts explored financing constraints for startups, perceived investment risks, and policy support required to scale up these solutions. The final session focused on regulatory and capacity-building measures for banks and NBFCs, discussing RBI guidelines, sector-specific lending policies, and strategies to enhance financing in consumer-oriented RE applications. Stakeholders highlighted the need for better regulatory frameworks, risk-sharing mechanisms, and financial instruments to unlock capital for India’s renewable energy ambitions. The discussions reinforced the necessity of collaborative efforts among policymakers, financial institutions, and industry leaders to mobilize large-scale investments and achieve India’s target of 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy by 2030.

    The discussions led to several key takeaways, including the need for lower-cost financing, improved access to global climate funds, and enhanced risk-sharing mechanisms for new technologies. Participants also stressed the importance of strengthening public-private partnerships and expanding green financial instruments to support India’s clean energy transition. The event concluded with a commitment from all stakeholders to work towards innovative financing models and policy frameworks that can unlock large-scale investments in the renewable energy sector.

    Senior officials from major public and private sector banks such as State Bank of India, Union Bank of India, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Bank of India, Bank of Baroda, Canara Bank, UCO Bank, IDFC Bank, IDBI Bank, AU Small Finance Bank, Axis Bank, Punjab National Bank, Indian Overseas Bank, Indian Bank, Central Bank of India, Punjab & Sind Bank, Jammu & Kashmir Bank and Bank of Maharashtra also attended the event.

    The workshop marked a significant step toward ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder India’s renewable energy ambitions, reaffirming the government’s commitment to a clean, sustainable, and financially inclusive energy future. The workshop provided a platform for key stakeholders, including banks, NBFCs, policymakers, and industry leaders, to discuss strategies for mobilizing large-scale
     
    investments in renewable energy. Participants reiterated their commitment to supporting India’s clean energy transition, ensuring energy security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. The event marked a significant step in bridging the financial gap for renewable energy projects, reinforcing India’s position as a global leader in the clean energy revolution.

    Dhanlaxmi/Preeti

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Prolific Alien Smuggler Extradited from Mexico to the United States in Joint Task Force Alpha Investigation

    Source: US State of Vermont

    Extensive coordination and cooperation efforts between U.S. and Mexican law enforcement authorities culminated in the extradition of an alleged alien smuggler who operated in Mexicali on the U.S.-Mexico border for several years as part of an international alien smuggling conspiracy.

    Raul Saucedo-Huipio, 49, was arrested in Mexico on March 2, 2023, pursuant to a U.S. request for his extradition, and was surrendered by Mexico to U.S. authorities on Feb. 21 to face charges previously filed in the District of Arizona. Saucedo-Huipio made his initial appearance on Feb. 21 in the Southern District of California. His co-conspirator, Ofelia Hernandez-Salas, 62, was extradited to the United States from Mexico in 2023 and pleaded guilty on Dec. 18, 2024, to conspiracy to bring an alien to the United States and substantive counts of bringing an alien to the United States.

    According to court documents, Saucedo-Huipio conspired with other smugglers, including Hernandez-Salas, to facilitate the travel of large numbers of migrants into the United States from and through Bangladesh, Yemen, Pakistan, Eritrea, India, the United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Russia, Egypt, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, and Mexico. Saucedo-Huipio and Hernandez-Salas allegedly charged the migrants as much as tens of thousands of dollars to make the journey and directed the migrants where to unlawfully cross the border into the United States, including by providing them with a ladder to climb over the border fence. Saucedo-Huipio and co-conspirators also allegedly robbed the migrants of money and personal belongings while armed with guns and knives.

    In June 2023, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) imposed corresponding sanctions on this transnational criminal organization.

    Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Rachel C. Hernandez for the District of Arizona, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI) Arizona Special Agent in Charge Francisco B. Burrola, made the announcement.

    ICE HSI Yuma is investigating the case with assistance from U.S. Border Patrol, Customs and Border Protection (CBP); U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations; FBI; and the U.S. Marshals Service, working in concert with ICE HSI Tijuana, INTERPOL, and the HSI Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C. HSI also received substantial assistance from CBP’s National Targeting Center/Counter Network Division and OFAC.

    Trial Attorney Alexandra Skinnion of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Stuart J. Zander for the District of Arizona are prosecuting the case.

    The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs (OIA) provided significant assistance in securing the defendant’s arrest and extradition from Mexico. The Justice Department thanks its Mexican law enforcement partners, who were instrumental in arresting Saucedo-Huipio, and the Mexican Attorney General’s Office and the Mexican Foreign Ministry for making the extradition possible.

    The indictments against Raul Saucedo-Huipio and Hernandez-Salas, and their subsequent arrests and extraditions, were coordinated through Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA was created in partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to strengthen the Justice Department’s efforts to combat the rise in prolific and dangerous smuggling emanating from Central America and impacting our border communities. JTFA’s goal is to disrupt and dismantle human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico, with a focus on networks that endanger, abuse, or exploit migrants, present national security risks, or engage in other types of transnational organized crime. The initiative was expanded to Colombia and Panama to combat human smuggling in the Darién in June 2024. JTFA comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the southwest border, including the Southern District of California, the District of Arizona, the District of New Mexico, and the Western and Southern Districts of Texas. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by HRSP and supported by the Office of Prosecutorial Development, Assistance and Training; the Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section; the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section; the Office of Enforcement Operations; OIA; and the Violent Crime and Racketeering Section. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in over 355 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of human smuggling; more than 300 U.S. convictions; more than 245 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.

    This investigation is also supported by the Extraterritorial Criminal Travel Strike Force (ECT) program, a partnership between the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and HSI. The ECT program focuses on human smuggling networks that may present particular national security or public safety risks or raise grave humanitarian concerns. ECT has dedicated investigative, intelligence, and prosecutorial resources. ECT also coordinates and receives assistance from other U.S. government agencies and foreign law enforcement authorities.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman, Scott, Hill Work to Roll Back Biden-Era CFPB Overdraft Rule

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman

    WASHINGTON––U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), Senate Banking Committee Chairman Tim Scott (R-SC) and House Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill (R-AR-04) introduced a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution to overturn the Biden administration’s Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) final rule capping overdraft fees at banks and credit unions, citing the rule’s damaging impact on access to important financial services. 

    “The CFPB’s overreach is well established and only intensified during the Biden administration. Instead of bringing more consumers into the banking system, this overdraft rule will push them away to unregulated lenders and I’m pleased to join my colleagues to block it,” said Boozman.

    “The Biden administration’s CFPB routinely targeted legitimate payment incentives and practices in pursuit of political headlines over sound policies. The overdraft rule was yet another example – many consumers rely on overdraft services to make ends meet and limiting this practice will push Americans to riskier financial products. I’m proud to lead the effort to overturn this misguided rule and protect Americans’ access to important financial services,” said Scott.

    “As I have consistently said, the CFPB needs guardrails on its enforcement and rulemaking powers, and this rule is another clear example of why. The CFPB’s actions on overdraft is another form of government price controls that hurt consumers who deserve financial protections and greater choice. Our CRA will help overturn this harmful rule and is a next step toward ensuring the CFPB halts all ongoing rules until it answers to Congress, just like any other non-independent federal agency,” said Hill. 

    The resolution is also supported by Senators Mike Crapo (R-ID), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Jim Risch (R-ID), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Katie Britt (R-AL) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE).

     The CRA has the support of key stakeholders including the Consumer Bankers Association, the Independent Community Bankers of America, the American Bankers Association and America’s Credit Unions.

    A CRA resolution is a tool used by Congress to eliminate onerous regulations imposed by the executive branch through an expedited procedure for consideration in the Senate. A joint resolution of disapproval under the CRA is afforded special privileges that bypass normal Senate rules and allow for a vote on the Senate floor. When a CRA resolution is approved by a simple majority in both chambers of Congress and signed by the president – or if Congress successfully overrides a presidential veto – the rule is invalidated.    

    Click here for full text of the resolution

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Political Charter in Sudan Deepens Fragmentation of Country, Risks Further Entrenching Crisis, Warns Secretary-General

    Source: United Nations 4

    Press Release

    SG/SM/22565

    The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General António Guterres:

    The Secretary-General is deeply concerned at the announcement by the Rapid Support Forces and affiliated civilian actors and armed groups of a political charter that expresses an intention to establish a governing authority in Rapid Support Forces areas of control.  This further escalation in the conflict in the Sudan deepens the fragmentation of the country and risks further entrenching the crisis.  Preserving the Sudan’s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity remains key for a sustainable resolution of the conflict and the long-term stability of the country and the wider region.

    The Secretary-General also condemns the persistent violence perpetrated against civilians across the Sudan by both parties to the conflict, including ethnically motivated attacks.  Sudanese women, children and men are paying the heaviest price for the continued military offensives by the belligerents.

    The Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy, Ramtane Lamamra, is engaging the warring parties and all other relevant stakeholders to achieve progress on a cessation of hostilities, protection of civilians and humanitarian access and promote de-escalation.

    For information media. Not an official record.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Prolific Alien Smuggler Extradited from Mexico to the United States in Joint Task Force Alpha Investigation

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    Extensive coordination and cooperation efforts between U.S. and Mexican law enforcement authorities culminated in the extradition of an alleged alien smuggler who operated in Mexicali on the U.S.-Mexico border for several years as part of an international alien smuggling conspiracy.

    Raul Saucedo-Huipio, 49, was arrested in Mexico on March 2, 2023, pursuant to a U.S. request for his extradition, and was surrendered by Mexico to U.S. authorities on Feb. 21 to face charges previously filed in the District of Arizona. Saucedo-Huipio made his initial appearance on Feb. 21 in the Southern District of California. His co-conspirator, Ofelia Hernandez-Salas, 62, was extradited to the United States from Mexico in 2023 and pleaded guilty on Dec. 18, 2024, to conspiracy to bring an alien to the United States and substantive counts of bringing an alien to the United States.

    According to court documents, Saucedo-Huipio conspired with other smugglers, including Hernandez-Salas, to facilitate the travel of large numbers of migrants into the United States from and through Bangladesh, Yemen, Pakistan, Eritrea, India, the United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Russia, Egypt, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, and Mexico. Saucedo-Huipio and Hernandez-Salas allegedly charged the migrants as much as tens of thousands of dollars to make the journey and directed the migrants where to unlawfully cross the border into the United States, including by providing them with a ladder to climb over the border fence. Saucedo-Huipio and co-conspirators also allegedly robbed the migrants of money and personal belongings while armed with guns and knives.

    In June 2023, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) imposed corresponding sanctions on this transnational criminal organization.

    Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Rachel C. Hernandez for the District of Arizona, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI) Arizona Special Agent in Charge Francisco B. Burrola, made the announcement.

    ICE HSI Yuma is investigating the case with assistance from U.S. Border Patrol, Customs and Border Protection (CBP); U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations; FBI; and the U.S. Marshals Service, working in concert with ICE HSI Tijuana, INTERPOL, and the HSI Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C. HSI also received substantial assistance from CBP’s National Targeting Center/Counter Network Division and OFAC.

    Trial Attorney Alexandra Skinnion of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Stuart J. Zander for the District of Arizona are prosecuting the case.

    The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs (OIA) provided significant assistance in securing the defendant’s arrest and extradition from Mexico. The Justice Department thanks its Mexican law enforcement partners, who were instrumental in arresting Saucedo-Huipio, and the Mexican Attorney General’s Office and the Mexican Foreign Ministry for making the extradition possible.

    The indictments against Raul Saucedo-Huipio and Hernandez-Salas, and their subsequent arrests and extraditions, were coordinated through Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA was created in partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to strengthen the Justice Department’s efforts to combat the rise in prolific and dangerous smuggling emanating from Central America and impacting our border communities. JTFA’s goal is to disrupt and dismantle human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico, with a focus on networks that endanger, abuse, or exploit migrants, present national security risks, or engage in other types of transnational organized crime. The initiative was expanded to Colombia and Panama to combat human smuggling in the Darién in June 2024. JTFA comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the southwest border, including the Southern District of California, the District of Arizona, the District of New Mexico, and the Western and Southern Districts of Texas. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by HRSP and supported by the Office of Prosecutorial Development, Assistance and Training; the Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section; the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section; the Office of Enforcement Operations; OIA; and the Violent Crime and Racketeering Section. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in over 355 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of human smuggling; more than 300 U.S. convictions; more than 245 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.

    This investigation is also supported by the Extraterritorial Criminal Travel Strike Force (ECT) program, a partnership between the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and HSI. The ECT program focuses on human smuggling networks that may present particular national security or public safety risks or raise grave humanitarian concerns. ECT has dedicated investigative, intelligence, and prosecutorial resources. ECT also coordinates and receives assistance from other U.S. government agencies and foreign law enforcement authorities.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Texas Man Pleads Guilty to Stealing Mail from Albany Postal Facility

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBANY, NEW YORK – Sean A. Walter, age 30, of Humble, Texas, pled guilty today to stealing business checks out of the U.S. Mail by repeatedly and unlawfully entering a mail sorting facility in Albany.

    The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Daniel Hanlon; Matthew Modafferi, Special Agent in Charge, United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG), Northeast Region; and Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the Boston Division of the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS).

    Walter admitted that on six occasions in 2023 and 2024, he unlawfully entered the USPS Albany Processing and Distribution Center (PDC) on Karner Road, in order to steal mail that he believed contained business checks. For instance, at approximately 12:56 a.m. on January 23, 2024, Walter entered the Albany PDC by forcefully pulling up a retractable overhead door to the facility. Once inside, he went to a large room where USPS employees were sorting mail and then stole a variety of mail. Walter placed the stolen mail in his backpack and exited the Albany PDC at around 2:31 a.m. He then re-entered the Albany PDC two more times that night and stole more mail on each occasion.

    According to the criminal complaint in this case, Walter was arrested on May 14, 2024, after being confronted by security guards inside of the Albany PDC and fleeing to a nearby motel.

    The mail that Walter stole included checks drawn on bank accounts belonging to entities in Upstate New York, including a town government, a bank, a volunteer fire department, and several small businesses. Walter sold these stolen checks to others and understood that these checks would then be altered and forged in ways that allowed them to be successfully negotiated by people other than the checks’ intended payees. In pleading guilty, Walter admitted to causing losses totaling at least $242,159.76.

    Walter also admitted that on two occasions in 2022, he unlawfully entered the USPS North Houston PDC (in Texas) and stole business checks.

    Walter faces up to 5 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 3 years of post-imprisonment supervised release, when United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino sentences him on June 30, 2025. Walter may also be ordered to pay restitution to his victims. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.

    USPS-OIG and USPIS investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Barnett is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Trump, Putin and Musk all share a leadership style – we’ve figured out what it is

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrei Lux, Lecturer of Leadership and Research Cluster Lead, Edith Cowan University

    Dictatorships would appear to be on the rise. Russian president Vladimir Putin, US president Donald Trump and even un-elected tech entrepreneur, Elon Musk are ruling by decree like “kings”.

    Some might naively call these leaders “authentic” for saying and often doing what they believe. But that’s not the whole story.

    Such unilateral decisions are deeply divisive, and often opposed. In the US, the federal court blocked Trump’s executive order banning workplace diversity, equity and inclusion programs to try to contain the damage.

    Researchers used to think that authenticity was inherently good and moral. But as authentic leadership research gets more sophisticated with robust experimental methods, what we know about this powerful approach is changing quickly.

    Experiments use controlled simulations and real-world field trials to show how leadership behaviour influences followers. These new methods are the gold standard for establishing cause-and-effect relationships, and they’re challenging old ideas.

    Authentic leadership redefined

    After 20 years of research, we’ve redefined authentic leadership as a process of sending leadership “signals”. What leaders say and do sends powerful messages about their values.

    In a digital age where every tweet and public act is scrutinised, understanding these signals is important for employees and voters. And keeping up with this new way of expressing authentic leadership is vital for anyone seeking to lead in today’s volatile world.

    In our latest article, we looked at what authentic leadership involves and why signalling is so important.

    But what exactly is “signalling”?

    Sending leadership ‘signals’

    Everything leaders do or say – how they behave, express themselves, look, and communicate – sends messages to everyone watching. These messages are “signals”. Leaders influence their followers by sending signals that will trigger specific thoughts or emotions.

    But executive life is complex and full of inherent contradictions between personal authenticity and the demands of leadership roles.

    High-profile figures such as Musk and Trump show how leadership signals can be polarising. Just last week Musk used his social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to call for an unconstitutional election in Ukraine.

    Musk’s edicts and announcements have prompted demonstrations around the US.
    Rena Schild/Shutterstock

    Signalling authentic leadership

    Demonstrating authentic leadership depends on sending clear, observable signals that reflect the leaders’ principles and ethical convictions.

    Here are some tips for spotting authentic leadership signals in everyday interactions. It is notable that it’s easier to find examples of leaders displaying the complete opposite.

    1. Self-awareness

    Leaders signal self-awareness by regularly seeking honest feedback and reflecting on their own strengths and weaknesses. They openly acknowledge mistakes and share their learning. They value personal growth and continuous improvement.

    Instead, Trump repeatedly ignores his own mistakes, even after they are exposed. His latest claim to be debunked was that Ukrainian President Zelensky’s approval was 4%, while his actual approval is closer to 60%.

    2. Internal moral perspective

    Leaders signal an internal moral perspective by making decisions – even if they are unpopular – firmly rooted in core ethical values. Upholding these values and encouraging open discussions on ethics is a principled approach to leadership.

    Instead, Musk has given federal workers 48 hours to justify their employment. The directive leaves little room for open dialogue on the ethical rationale or moral implications of such a drastic measure. He relies, instead, on top-down command.

    Key federal agencies including the FBI and Pentagon have told employees to ignore the email.

    3. Balanced processing

    Leaders signal balanced processing by seeking different views and considering all options before making a decision. Admitting any biases and using team brainstorming or surveys, ensures fair and informed decision-making.

    Instead, Trump has signed more than 50 executive orders since taking office in January. These include some that are unlawful, as an open display of personal bias and unilateral decision-making.

    4. Relational transparency

    Leaders signal relational transparency by sharing appropriate personal experiences and vulnerabilities with their teams. Being honest about limitations and inviting open dialogue builds trust through genuine and consistent communication.

    Instead social media guru, Mark Zuckerberg, another Trump ally, assured staff his charity the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative would continue its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. Then, only weeks later, he dismantled it.

    You can’t just fake it, either

    Leadership signals can convey honest information or be manipulated to send contrived messages.

    Trying to fake it doesn’t work. Leadership behaviour has to align with the leaders’ real values and internal sense of self – otherwise it’s not authentic leadership. It’s just impression management.

    Learning the difference empowers us to understand leaders’ actions and better navigate the post-truth era of global business and politics.

    Andrei Lux works for Edith Cowan University and is a Member of the Australian and New Zealand Academy of Management.

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

    – ref. Trump, Putin and Musk all share a leadership style – we’ve figured out what it is – https://theconversation.com/trump-putin-and-musk-all-share-a-leadership-style-weve-figured-out-what-it-is-250502

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Canada’s productivity strategy needs to centre workers

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Ako Ufodike, Associate Professor, Administrative Studies, York University, Canada

    As Canada moves into 2025, its productivity still lags, despite efforts by the federal government to address the issue in the 2024 federal budget.

    Canada’s productivity has declined in nine of the last 10 quarters. Between 2015 and 2023, Canadian productivity fell by an average of 0.8 per cent per year. This means that, for every hour worked by Canadian employees, their output decreased by about eight per cent over that entire period.

    Labour productivity measures how much an economy produces per hour of work. Increasing productivity means finding ways to help people create more value in the time they spend working. However, how productivity is measured — and who benefits from productivity stimulation initiatives — varies.



    Read more:
    Canada’s lagging productivity affects us all — and will take years to remedy

    From an employer’s perspective, the main factor influencing productivity is the number of hours worked. For employees, the best proxy is wages received per hour worked — two related variables with differing implications.

    To date, Canada’s strategy to improve productivity has been very traditional, in that its primary aim has been to provide incentives for improved business performance.

    Global productivity issues

    Canada’s productivity stagnation struggles are not unique. A December 2024 OECD working paper highlighted a widespread slowdown across the OECD nations.

    From 1995 to 2023, ouputs from labour and capital inputs — know as multifactor productivity — declined sharply in both small and large advanced OECD countries.

    In Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, Spain and the United Kingdom, productivity has nearly stalled. Greece, Italy, Luxembourg and Mexico experienced prolonged periods of negative growth.

    The OECD paper also found a link between productivity decline and stagnating human capital development. Since 2003, young citizens of OECD countries have underperformed on standardized tests in science, math and reading.

    At the same time, many skilled immigrants to these countries are selected from the sciences and must score exceptionally high on language proficiency exams such as the International English Language Testing System.

    This raises questions about how countries assess and utilize human capital, and whether traditional productivity measures fully capture workforce potential.

    Innovation in productivity approaches

    Innovation improves productivity, yet Canada’s 2024 budget fails to embrace this principle. The 2024 budget prescribed five main strategies to address Canada’s productivity issues:

    • incentives for entrepreneurs;
    • fiscal incentives for productivity-enhancing assets;
    • regulatory sandboxes to reduce bureaucratic red tape;
    • enhanced federal research support;
    • a $200-million investment in the Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative.

    However, the initiatives largely continue to follow the traditional approach which focuses on incentivizing businesses to increase output, rather than focusing on workers — the factor most relevant to productivity.

    One of the budget’s major assumptions, which has so far failed to materialize, was that productivity would grow by 1.8 per cent between 2024 and 2028, despite a 1.8 per cent decline over the previous three years and a 0.8 per cent decline over the preceding decade.

    Another overlooked factor is that declining wages also decrease productivity. Instead of focusing solely on business incentives, a more effective labour-agency approach would also incentivize those who own the denominator in the productivity formula — workers.

    Addressing immigrant underemployment

    Immigrants are the primary drivers of population growth in most OECD countries, yet many end up in precarious employment or underemployed, despite being exceptionally qualified.

    Even when immigrants are employed at the appropriate level, many are underpaid in comparison to non-immigrant workers or their predecessors in the same roles. This wage suppression is at odds with efforts to improve productivity.



    Read more:
    I’ve worked in precarious jobs for more than 10 years – here’s what unions should do to support migrant workers

    This issue is particularly evident in Canada, where conversations about productivity are being shaped by immigration trends. In 2023, Canada welcomed one million new immigrants without a corresponding increase in economic output. From July 2023 to July 2024, immigrant underemployment rose by 3.1 to 12.6 per cent.

    Labour market integration varies across regions. In Alberta, for example, 80 per cent of new jobs between 2018 and 2022 were filled by immigrants, yet, productivity did not rise.

    Some critics have blamed immigrants for Canada’s productivity struggles, but this narrative risks fostering anti-immigrant sentiment. While population growth may contribute to declining per capita productivity, in reality, many highly qualified immigrants end up underemployed or unemployed through no fault of their own.

    A 2024 Statistics Canada report highlighted this missed economic opportunity, stating: “recent immigrants were more likely than people born in Canada to be employed in professional occupations and lower-skilled and labourer occupations.”

    Despite this, the 2024 budget doesn’t address harmful “unproductive immigrant” narratives.

    Driving productivity growth

    Canada’s current approach to productivity is incomplete. While business incentives play a role, productivity growth cannot be achieved without investing in workers — particularly immigrants, who represent a growing share of the workforce.

    Canada and other OECD nations are missing an opportunity by failing to fully utilize immigrant talent. Rather than blaming immigrants for productivity declines, countries should recognize immigrants as valuable contributors. Proper credential recognition and expanding workforce integration programs could allow immigrants to contribute at their full economic potential.



    Read more:
    Canadian immigrants are overqualified and underemployed — reforms must address this

    A truly innovative productivity strategy would fund reskilling, upskilling and mentorship programs for immigrants and youth. It would also support equity initiatives to ensure immigrants aren’t exploited or paid less than their counterparts.

    Improving career mobility is also essential. Helping immigrants transition into high-output sectors, such as technology or engineering, through retraining programs and targeted incentives could strengthen productivity.

    Addressing wage inequity is also crucial. Ensuring immigrants receive fair wages aligned with their qualifications will improve worker motivation and productivity, consistent with the arguments of efficient wage theory.

    If these issues remain unaddressed, Canada risks continued productivity stagnation by overlooking a key opportunity to harness the potential of its immigrant workforce.

    Ako Ufodike receives funding from Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council.

    – ref. Canada’s productivity strategy needs to centre workers – https://theconversation.com/canadas-productivity-strategy-needs-to-centre-workers-249669

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: We need meaningful, not less, EDI and climate action in turbulent times

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Sarah E. Sharma, Assistant Professor, School of Political Studies, L’Université d’Ottawa/University of Ottawa

    Today, both climate action and equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) are increasingly under attack. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the United States, where the Trump administration is leading a concerted effort to obstruct climate action and penalize EDI.

    A federal judge recently granted an injunction blocking U.S. government officials from terminating or changing federal contracts they consider equity-related.

    The injunction comes just over a month after President Donald Trump signed executive orders that end federal government support for programs promoting EDI. The judge found the executive orders could likely violate the U.S. Constitution and free-speech rights.

    In Canada, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre has blamed carbon pricing for driving up prices, despite research showing that it has a minimal impact on inflation. Meanwhile, provincial governments in Alberta and Saskatchewan are pursuing punitive anti-transgender agendas and some universities are moving away from EDI, claiming it promotes exclusion.

    Until recently, governments, universities and corporations faced criticism for their lack of meaningful commitments on EDI and the climate. Many responded with ambitious pledges but insufficient action. This led to greenwashing and diversity-washing, symbolic commitments that mask inaction.

    Hypocrisies in climate and EDI policies have become easy targets for right-wing populists. As a result, EDI and climate action are being scapegoated for broader systemic failures. For instance, the most deadly American plane crash in two decades has been baselessly linked to EDI, rather than clear evidence of systemic failures.

    There are good reasons to challenge greenwashing and diversity-washing. Yet, denigrating climate and DEI actions wholesale avoids tackling the roots of complex problems and can have dangerous outcomes.

    Why we need meaningful EDI in climate action

    Climate policies that ignore social justice deepen exclusion, weaken public buy-in and provoke backlash. A just energy transition requires policies that resonate with marginalized communities and with those who feel threatened by change. Without this, opposition will only grow.

    We recently published a journal article, co-authored with researchers Neelakshi Joshi and Georgia Savvidou, outlining how greenwashing, diversity-washing and the backlash against EDI all undermine effective climate action. We argue that we cannot address environmental challenges without confronting class, gender and racial inequities.

    EDI is rooted in historical social movements that fought against exclusion. Established rights — like maternity leave, anti-discrimination in the workplace and marriage equality — are all products of these movements.

    Over the past decade, movements like #MeToo, Black Lives Matter and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls have advanced our understanding of systemic discrimination. EDI efforts have aimed to make institutions more representative and reduce inequalities in workplaces and society.

    EDI in climate action has also gained traction, particularly through the push for a “just transition.” This movement seeks to restructure energy systems fairly and inclusively, ensuring no one is left behind.

    Energy systems are deeply inequitable. Who profits, who has access and who shapes energy policy is highly uneven. Meaningful EDI that redistributes these benefits is essential. This includes the need to support workers in fossil fuel industries and the most vulnerable to climate impacts.

    Ironically, political leaders who oppose EDI on merit grounds appoint key figures with no expertise. They ignore that diversity expands merit, not lowers it — EDI removes barriers, not standards.

    Meaningful EDI in energy transitions

    In our journal article we outline how public and private leaders make bold promises without transformative action, leading to greenwashing and diversity-washing.

    Insufficient and superficial efforts can hinder systemic change. In the energy sector, simply prioritizing boardroom and workforce diversity does not necessarily guarantee fairer working conditions or tangible benefits for local communities.

    We must move beyond empty greenwashing and diversity-washing rhetoric towards actions that target the needs of diverse populations where they live and work.

    For example, community-led clean energy projects enable citizens to actively participate in energy transitions. Indigenous-led renewable energy ownership facilitates Indigenous sovereignty. Community organizations like Empower Me address the energy poverty faced by newcomers, immigrants, single mothers, seniors and others.

    These examples demonstrate that more diverse perspectives are needed not to pursue EDI for its own sake, but to transform energy systems in real ways for more people.

    When diverse experiences are not taken into account, our energy and climate decisions are prone to blind-spots and groupthink. This locks us further into existing practices, rather than opening up innovative and transformative paths.

    We must reconnect with reality and not hide in fantasies that reject natural and social science alike. When EDI is obstructed, we cannot make effective progress on the climate crisis. We lose opportunities to discuss the injustices that are baked into energy systems — discussions that can lead to tailored and targeted policies relevant to the everyone’s needs.

    This means heating, cooling and transport options that work for people of all backgrounds, income and ability levels, and initiatives that suit rural and remote communities as well as urban residents.

    In turbulent times, the world needs more meaningful EDI, not less.

    Sarah E. Sharma receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada and the Department of National Defence’s Mobilizing Insights in Defence and Security (MINDS) program.

    Amy Janzwood receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    Julie MacArthur receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    Runa Das receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    – ref. We need meaningful, not less, EDI and climate action in turbulent times – https://theconversation.com/we-need-meaningful-not-less-edi-and-climate-action-in-turbulent-times-249683

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Celebrating 50 Years of CBO

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    Fifty years ago today, Alice Rivlin was appointed to lead the Congressional Budget Office as the agency’s first director. Gathering in a single room in the Dirksen Senate Office Building (CBO’s original home), Rivlin and a few assistants began the process of standing up a new nonpartisan agency dedicated to supporting the Congressional budget process.

    From the start, Rivlin insisted that CBO should never try to tell the Congress what to do. And for the past half century, the agency’s mission has remained the same: to deliver objective and timely information, without making recommendations, to help lawmakers as they confront difficult policy decisions.

    That nonpartisan mission and CBO’s enduring legacy—first defined by Rivlin and continued under nine other directors—could not have been achieved without the hard work of the agency’s talented staff, many of whom have served for years or even decades and exemplify the very best of public service. CBO is grateful for the contributions of its employees both past and present—those who carry out the agency’s analysis and those who provide the organizational structure to make it possible.

    CBO is also deeply appreciative of the ongoing support from those it was created to serve, including the House and Senate Budget Committees, other Congressional committees, Congressional leadership, and individual Members.

    In addition to our staff, the agency has been aided by many outside experts over the years, including those from other government agencies, the academic community, think tanks, and the private sector. We are grateful for the time and talent they have lent to CBO.

    At this important milestone, we can look to the past with pride and to the future with optimism, driven by the challenge to always improve our work. That includes making our analysis more accurate and transparent, striving to be as responsive as possible to the lawmakers who rely on us, and ensuring that the agency continues to bring together bright minds, powerful analytic tools, and all the available evidence.

    Much has changed in the 50 years since CBO’s founding. But Alice Rivlin would be pleased to know that the agency’s commitment to provide objective, insightful, and timely information to the Congress has not changed. It is still upheld daily by people who take their responsibility seriously and regard their service as a privilege.

    Cheers to the first 50 years—and to 50 more!

    Phillip L. Swagel is CBO’s Director.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Farmers, investors, miners and parents: how unconventional climate advocates can reach new audiences

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Xiongzhi Wang, Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Environmental Social Science, Australian National University

    Max Acronym/Shutterstock

    When you think about climate advocates, you’ll likely picture left-leaning environmentalists who live in cities. This group has contributed to building public support for climate action worldwide, through protests, petitions, lobbying and so on.

    While a majority of Australians understand that climate change is happening and that humans are the main cause, there are still holdout groups. Acceptance of the fact that climate change is largely caused by humans sits at 60% of Australians, well below other countries.

    Holdout groups in Australia can include people associated with political conservatism, the business sector, farming, the resource sector, some religious groups and some sports fans. For these groups, climate advocacy by left-leaning environmentalists may be limited in its effectiveness.

    How do you reach these groups? Our new research points to one solution: unconventional climate advocates. That is, those not from the stereotypical background and who belong to holdout groups. Think of groups such as Farmers for Climate Action and the Investor Group on Climate Change.

    These individuals and groups can play a crucial role in expanding the base of the climate movement – without necessarily working with mainstream climate groups. Better still, we found these unconventional advocates tend to receive more sympathetic media coverage.

    Who are these unconventional advocates?

    We distinguish two types of unconventional climate advocates –role-based and bridge-builders.

    Role-based advocates come from groups not typically associated with climate advocacy, such as Australian Parents for Climate Action, Doctors for the Environment, Vets for Climate Action and Australian Firefighters Climate Alliance. These advocates broaden our perception of who engages in climate advocacy.

    Bridge-builders come from groups with a history of tension with environmentalists and environmental issues. They can often span the divide between their group and the broader climate movement. These groups include Farmers for Climate Action, Investor Group on Climate Change, Hunter Jobs Alliance and Australian Religious Response to Climate Change.

    Why do they matter?

    Unconventional advocates are vital because they can reach a broader section of the population. This is because we are more likely to listen to insiders: people from groups we identify with who share our values and beliefs. We also pay more attention to messages when they come from a surprising source and when they go against perceived interests.

    A farmer advocating for climate action is more likely to resonate with other farmers than city-based environmentalists, for instance. Similarly, if you expect farmers to be opposed to climate action, you’re more likely to pay attention to their message than if it came from an environmentalist.

    Our research shows these groups are not mainstream environmentalists. They exist on the periphery of the climate movement.

    Using social network analysis, we mapped the connections between more than 3,000 climate advocacy groups in Australia. This showed us unconventional advocates are less connected to traditional environmental groups such as Greenpeace Australia Pacific or the Australian Conservation Foundation.

    This distance may actually be advantageous. By maintaining a degree of independence from the mainstream environmental movement, unconventional advocates can avoid being dismissed as “greenies” – an unpopular group for some people in rural areas. Farmers advocating for climate action may be more effective if they’re not seen as aligned with environmentalists who might be viewed with suspicion in rural communities.

    Does unconventional advocacy work?

    By one metric, unconventional advocacy does work. These individuals and groups broadly receive more sympathetic media coverage.

    In recent research, we analysed more than 17,000 Australian media articles published between 2017 and 2022 mentioning unconventional and more stereotypical environmentalist climate advocacy groups.

    We found Greenpeace Australia Pacific and other established groups received the most media coverage overall. Disruptive groups such as Extinction Rebellion tended to be framed negatively, with a focus on conflict and arrests. The negativity was most pronounced in articles published by News Corp, owned by the conservative media figure Rupert Murdoch.

    Unconventional advocates received less media coverage than other types of advocates. When they did receive coverage, it was generally more sympathetic. Articles tended to focus on their achievements and to use less confrontational language, even from conservative-leaning media outlets.

    This suggests unconventional advocates are well positioned to shift public opinion in holdout groups and build a broader base of support for climate action.

    Unconventional advocates for unprecedented times

    In Australia and in many other countries, climate action has become politicised – often along party lines. Holdout groups are a minority, but a large minority. To actually respond to the increasing threat of climate change will require building a bigger base of support.

    Unconventional advocates offer a way to disrupt hardened divides, expand the range of voices in the movement and engage communities and groups often left out of the conversation.

    Xiongzhi Wang works as a postdoc with his salary coming from the Australian Research Council (project DP220103155) which funds the research related to this article.

    Kelly Fielding received funding from Australian Research Council DP220103155 for the research related to this article. She currently donates to Greenpeace Australia.

    Rebecca Colvin serves on advisory/research committees/panels for: the Australian Museum’s Climate Solutions Centre; The Climate Risk Group; The Blueprint Institute; RE-Alliance; the NSW Environmental Trust. She is a non-executive member of the Board of the NSW Government’s EnergyCo. She receives funding from The Australian Research Council (DP220103155 and DE230101151).

    Robyn Gulliver receives funding from the Climate Social Science Network. She has worked for and volunteers for a range of environmental advocacy groups.

    Winnifred Louis receives funding from the Australian Research Council (project DP220103155) for the research related to this article. She has been a longstanding advocate for environmental and climate action but is not affiliated with any groups mentioned here.

    – ref. Farmers, investors, miners and parents: how unconventional climate advocates can reach new audiences – https://theconversation.com/farmers-investors-miners-and-parents-how-unconventional-climate-advocates-can-reach-new-audiences-249949

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand Statement On Politically Motivated Firings Of Senior U.S. Military Officers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand

    Tonight, after President Trump fired a number of senior U.S. military officers, including General Charles Brown, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; Admiral Lisa Franchetti, the Chief of Naval Operations; General James Slife, the Air Force Vice Chief of Staff; and the Judge Advocates General for the Army, Navy, and Air Force, and in the wake of reporting that Trump is considering firing a number of other senior U.S. military officers, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement:

    “I am deeply disturbed by President Trump’s politically motivated purge of senior military leaders. This loss of experience makes our military less ready, undermines our national security, and ultimately makes Americans less safe. These firings also undermine the principle that our military owes its allegiance to the Constitution and to the American people – not to a particular party or president. 

    Among the exceptionally qualified leaders Trump fired tonight is Lisa Franchetti, who was the first woman on the Joint Chiefs of Staff and had more time in command at sea than any of her recent predecessors. This administration has made bogus claims that Admiral Franchetti and other purged leaders secured their positions only because of their gender or race, despite the fact that they came to their roles with decades of experience and were confirmed with broad bipartisan support.

    I urge Senate Republicans to resist these attempts to politicize our military and make a stand for the long tradition of a nonpartisan military.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján Named Ranking Member of Commerce Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

    Subcommittee Oversees Key New Mexico Priorities Including Broadband Access and Public Safety Communications

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) was named Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media for the 119th Congress. Senator Luján previously served as Chair, formerly named the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband, since 2021.  

    “New Mexicans know the difference between fast internet, slow internet, and no internet. Broadband is a necessity for daily life, and I am proud to once again represent New Mexico on this critical subcommittee to ensure every household in our state and across the country has affordable, secure, and reliable internet access,” said Senator Luján. “Since being elected to the Senate in 2020, I have been proud to chair this subcommittee which has broad jurisdiction over communications policy, including federal spectrum, broadband affordability & accessibility, public safety communications, network resiliency, broadcasting & streaming, and the Internet.

    “In this Congress, I look forward to serving as Ranking Member and working closely with Senator Fischer to continue our bipartisan work to expand broadband access, secure communications networks, and enact policies that will benefit all Americans,” continued Senator Luján. “The subcommittee is at the center of critical debates over the future of access to media, including streaming and Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act. Far too many communities throughout the country have been left without broadband access, and I won’t stop working until every New Mexican is connected.”

    Background on Senator Luján’s work on the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media:

    During the 117th and 118th Congress, Senator Luján chaired a total of 11 subcommittee hearings on key issues, ranging from broadband buildout and affordability, to protecting Americans from robocalls, to preventing harms online. In May 2023, as Chair of the Subcommittee, Senator Luján created a bipartisan, bicameral working group to evaluate and propose potential reforms to the Universal Service Fund. During the 117th Congress, as chair of the subcommittee, Senator Luján successfully helped pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that created the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program, as well as the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which delivered broadband access to over 55 million Americans.

    Background on the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media:

    The Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media has jurisdiction over matters relating to communications, including includes telephones, cell phones, the Internet, commercial and noncommercial television, cable, satellite broadcast, satellite communications, wireline and wireless broadband, radio, consumer electronic equipment associated with such services, and public safety communications. The subcommittee is also responsible for oversight of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) at the Department of Commerce, which is the federal agency primarily responsible for the management of government spectrum and advising the President on telecommunications policy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Concludes 2024 Article IV Consultation with Angola

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    February 24, 2025

    Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) concluded the Article IV consultation[1] with Angola.

    Angola’s economy recovered in 2024 as the oil sector rebounded. GDP growth is estimated to have reached 3.8 percent, surpassing earlier projections, and the recovery broadened to the non-oil sector. The public debt-to-GDP ratio declined in 2024, benefiting from higher nominal GDP growth and sustained primary surpluses. However, fiscal consolidation efforts waned, and buffers built during the 2018–21 EFF—supported program are being eroded by fiscal slippages from higher capital expenditures and a slower fuel subsidy reform.

    Inflation remained elevated driven by exchange rate pressures and higher food prices. The central bank raised monetary policy rate by 150 bps in 2024 and streamlined liquidity management, resulting in a better alignment of the interbank rate with the policy rate. The currency depreciated by over 10 percent against the U.S. dollar in 2024. Adverse market expectations and a high external debt service continue to weigh on the exchange rate. The government’s active cash and debt management helped mitigate liquidity pressures.

    The recovery is expected to continue but risks to the outlook remain high. Growth is expected to remain at 3 percent in 2025 while inflation is projected to ease with the fading of cost-push factors. The resolution of maintenance bottlenecks in key extraction blocks and government-led efforts to incentivize production should help sustain oil production. However, high external debt service constrains development spending, and oil dependence remains a drag on sustainable growth. Liquidity risk could intensify should financing conditions deteriorate, further crowding out social spending, and exerting pressures on the exchange rate. Moreover, with presidential elections scheduled for 2027, an early start of the political cycle risks slowing down the implementation of economic reforms. On the upside, higher oil prices, positive spillovers from further global monetary policy easing, and stronger non-oil FDIs, including through the Lobito Corridor development, could improve the medium-term outlook.

    Executive Board Assessment[2]

    “Executive Directors agreed with the thrust of the staff appraisal. While welcoming the economic recovery, they highlighted the continued risks from oil price volatility and debt vulnerabilities. Against this background, Directors emphasized the urgency of accelerating structural reforms to strengthen macroeconomic and financial stability and foster diversified and inclusive growth.

    “Directors stressed that returning to a fiscal consolidation path is critical to strengthen buffers and create space for development needs. They emphasized the importance of fully implementing fuel subsidy reforms accompanied by mitigating measures to protect the most vulnerable and intensifying non‑oil revenue mobilization efforts. Directors also advised rationalizing public investment and improving spending efficiency in line with the 2019 PIMA recommendations, strengthening public financial management, including the procurement framework and SOE reforms, and improving cash and debt management to mitigate liquidity risks and support a timely return to markets.

    “Directors stressed the need for monetary policy to maintain a tightening bias to ensure durable disinflation. They called on the authorities to strictly adhere to the ceiling on government loans to safeguard international reserves and contain inflationary pressures. Directors welcomed the authorities’ efforts to streamline liquidity management to enhance monetary policy transmission, as well as to improve foreign exchange market functioning and exchange rate flexibility as part of the transition toward an inflation‑targeting framework.

    “Directors underlined the need to continue addressing financial sector vulnerabilities. They called on the authorities to address AML/CFT weaknesses to achieve swift removal from the FATF grey list. Directors emphasized the importance of effectively implementing new supervisory regulations and developing a robust financial stability framework, including strengthened safety nets. They advised addressing remaining vulnerabilities from the sovereign‑bank nexus, high NPLs, and problem banks, and looked forward to the upcoming FSAP assessment.

    “Directors supported the authorities’ National Development Plan to achieve more diversified and resilient growth. A key focus should be on market‑friendly policies to streamline business regulations, enhance governance, fight corruption, develop human capital, and deepen financial inclusion. Stronger statistical capacity is also needed to support sound policy making.

    It is expected that the next Article IV consultation with Angola will be held on the standard 12‑month cycle.”

     

    Angola: Selected Economic Indicators, 2023–25

    2023

    2024

    2025
     

    Prel.

    Proj.

    Real economy (percent change, except where otherwise indicated)

    		      

    Real gross domestic product

    1.0

    3.8

    3.0

    Oil sector

    -2.4

    3.2

    0.3

    Non-oil sector

    2.2

    3.9

    3.4

    Nominal gross domestic product (GDP)

    14.6

    33.3

    24.3

    Oil sector

    9.5

    33.7

    17.4

    Non-oil sector

    15.5

    33.2

    25.6

    GDP deflator

    13.4

    28.5

    20.8

    Non-oil GDP deflator

    14.4

    28.2

    21.3

    Consumer prices (annual average)

    13.6

    28.2

    21.0

    Consumer prices (end of period)

    20.0

    27.5

    18.9
         

    Central government (percent of GDP)

    		      

    Total revenue

    17.4

    16.6

    16.0

    Of which: Oil-related

    10.3

    10.0

    9.7

    Of which: Non-oil tax

    6.1

    5.6

    5.0

    Total expenditure

    19.2

    17.6

    17.3

    Current expenditure

    15.2

    14.1

    12.4

    Capital spending

    4.1

    3.6

    4.9

    Overall fiscal balance

    -1.9

    -1.0

    -1.3

    Non-oil primary fiscal balance

    -6.4

    -5.7

    -7.2
         

    Money and credit (end of period, percent change)

    		      

    Broad money (M2)

    37.8

    30.6

    38.5

    Percent of GDP

    20.8

    20.4

    22.7

    Velocity (GDP/M2)

    4.8

    4.9

    4.4

    Velocity (non-oil GDP/M2)

    4.1

    4.1

    3.8

    Credit to the private sector (annual percent change)

    28.8

    28.1

    27.0
         

    Balance of payments

    		      

    Trade balance (percent of GDP)

    19.9

    19.7

    17.0

    Exports of goods, f.o.b. (percent of GDP)

    33.6

    33.1

    31.5

    Of which: Oil and gas exports (percent of GDP)

    31.6

    30.9

    28.6

    Imports of goods, f.o.b. (percent of GDP)

    13.8

    13.4

    14.5

    Terms of trade (percent change)

    -19.3

    -4.0

    -10.4

    Current account balance (percent of GDP)

    3.8

    4.1

    2.4

    Gross international reserves (end of period, millions of U.S. dollars)

    14,727

    15,227

    15,277

    Gross international reserves (months of next year’s imports)

    7.3

    7.3

    7.3

     

    		      

    Exchange rate

    		      

    Official exchange rate (average, kwanzas per U.S. dollar)

    685

    876

    …

    Official exchange rate (end of period, kwanzas per U.S. dollar)

    829

    924

    …
         

    Public debt (percent of GDP)

    		      

    Public sector debt (gross)1

    71.4

    62.4

    63.3

    Of which: Central Government debt

    67.9

    60.4

    61.9
         

    Oil

    		      

    Oil and gas production (millions of barrels per day)

    1.205

    1.262

    1.266

    Oil and gas exports (billions of U.S. dollars)

    34.7

    35.4

    31.5

    Angola oil price (average, U.S. dollars per barrel)

    80.6

    78.5

    70.3

    Brent oil price (average, U.S. dollars per barrel)

    82.3

    80.0

    71.4

    Sources: Angolan authorities; and IMF staff estimates and projections.

    1 Includes debt of the Central Government, external debt of state oil company Sonangol and state airline company TAAG, and guaranteed debt. 

    [1] Under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, the IMF holds bilateral discussions with members, usually every year. A staff team visits the country, collects economic and financial information, and discusses with officials the country’s economic developments and policies. On return to headquarters, the staff prepares a report, which forms the basis for discussion by the Executive Board.

    [2] At the conclusion of the discussion, the Managing Director, as Chairman of the Board, summarizes the views of Executive Directors, and this summary is transmitted to the country’s authorities. An explanation of any qualifiers used in summing up can be found here: http://www.IMF.org/external/np/sec/misc/qualifiers.htm.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Tatiana Mossot

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/02/24/pr-2541-angola-imf-executive-board-concludes-2024-article-iv-consultation

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Laying the foundation for compassionate intervention

    [. Alberta’s government has prioritized investments into treatment capacity with 11 recovery communities and the removal of financial barriers for those in need of treatment and recovery. Alberta has also established the gold standard for access to opioid agonist therapy through the Virtual Opioid Dependency Program. With significant progress on the model, Alberta is taking the next step to move forward with promised legislation, known as compassionate intervention.

    Alberta’s government is continuing its work to develop compassionate intervention legislation. If passed, that legislation would allow family members, guardians, health care professionals, police or peace officers to request an addiction treatment order for Albertans who are a danger to themselves or others due to their addiction or substance use.

    To provide proper health care for these patients with complex addiction needs, Alberta’s government is building two compassionate intervention centres, each with capacity for 150 beds. The Northern Alberta Compassionate Intervention Centre will be built in Edmonton and the Southern Alberta Compassionate Intervention Centre will be built in Calgary. Construction is expected to begin in 2026 and be completed in 2029.

    “For those suffering from addiction there are two paths – they can let their addiction destroy and take their life or they can enter recovery. Alberta’s government is committed to providing a recovery-oriented system of care to ensure that those suffering from addiction have the opportunity to rebuild their lives. That’s why we are introducing compassionate intervention as another tool in the Alberta Recovery Model. This upcoming legislation will help keep our communities safe while ensuring our most vulnerable can access much-needed recovery supports.”

    Danielle Smith, Premier

    “We cannot – and will not – stand by and let addiction destroy our families and communities. These new facilities show a strong commitment to delivering on our promise for compassionate intervention, ensuring families are no longer forced to watch their loved ones suffer from the deadly disease of addiction.”

    Dan Williams, Minister of Mental Health and Addiction

    Compassionate intervention is a made-in-Alberta strategy to address the addiction crisis, taking evidence-based models used in other jurisdictions and tailoring them to meet the unique needs of Albertans. Already, Alberta has seen significant progress with the creation of the Alberta Recovery Model. Alberta saw a 39 per cent decrease in the number of people losing their lives to opioid addiction over the first ten months of 2024 compared with the same period in 2023. In contrast, British Columbia saw only a 13 per cent decline between 2023 and 2024.

    The Northern and Southern Alberta Compassionate Intervention Centres would help to continue decreasing the number of lives lost to addiction. The centres would serve as multi-functional facilities where patients will access a full spectrum of mental health and addiction supports to address complex needs. They would include spaces for intake assessments, medically supported detox, counselling, individual and group therapy, and more.

    The goal is to provide stabilization, assessment and treatment so Albertans can successfully transition to community supports, such as a recovery community, to continue their recovery journey.

    “We value our partnership with Alberta’s government as we work to save lives and bring people into recovery. But with new, increasingly deadly drugs like methamphetamine and fentanyl, we can’t keep doing the same things and expect different results while people are dying. As Chief of Enoch Cree Nation, I support compassionate intervention and welcome investments that prioritize Indigenous culture and new approaches that truly meet the needs of our people.”

    Cody Thomas, chief, Enoch Cree Nation

    With an immediate need to provide compassionate intervention care, Alberta’s government is also exploring options to have temporary compassionate intervention beds more quickly available within existing facilities. 

    Under the upcoming legislation, individuals would need to meet specific criteria to be eligible for compassionate intervention assessment and treatment. Decisions would be made by an independent commission consisting of lawyers, physicians, and members of the public, which may include Indigenous elders. Treatment would be tailored to each patient’s needs and take place in a secure facility and in the community.

    “Tsuut’ina Nation is grateful for our relationship with the Ministry of Mental Health and Addiction. These new compassionate intervention centres are an important part of addressing the opioid addiction crisis. We are confident that these safe spaces, guided by elders and experts, will provide valuable support for individuals and families in need.”

    Roy Whitney, chief, Tsuut’ina Nation

    Safeguards would be built into the compassionate intervention legislation to ensure individual rights and freedoms are protected. Individuals would have access to legal support and the Health Advocate, and would retain the ability to appeal. Those who enter into compassionate intervention will undergo regular treatment reviews. Further details about compassionate intervention will be shared when legislation is introduced.

    “Today, I feel hopeful. I’m grateful for Alberta’s government because they have acknowledged the addiction crisis in Alberta and committed to proactive programs aimed at saving our loved ones. We must intervene to help people like my son reclaim their lives.”

    Amy Schiffner, mother of an adult suffering from addiction

    “This commitment to compassionate intervention is ensuring we bring as many people out of addiction as possible. It’s clear Alberta’s government is taking recovery seriously with significant investment into the delivery of compassionate intervention care.”

    Bruce Holstead, executive director, Fresh Start Recovery Centre

    “There is nothing more heart wrenching than families watching their loved one struggle with the illness of addiction. PEP Society welcomes this investment and action to establish compassionate intervention, and we look forward to having this resource to rebuild health and wellness in families across Alberta.”  

    Lerena Greig, executive director, Parents Empowering Parents (PEP) Society

    “We need to ask ourselves if it is better to leave someone to harm themselves with ongoing addiction or if we should compassionately intervene. The answer is obviously to intervene and do what we can to save someone’s life.”

    Earl Thiessen, executive director, Oxford House

    Advisory committees are being established to help guide and provide input on the implementation of compassionate intervention within the health system. Members will include representatives from Indigenous communities and families affected by addiction. Alberta’s government will also continue to consult with police and health professionals to establish a robust compassionate intervention system.

    Alberta’s government is making record investments and removing barriers to recovery-oriented supports for all Albertans. In addition to adding more than 10,000 new, publicly funded addiction treatment spaces, the province expanded access to the Virtual Opioid Dependency Program, which provides same-day access to life-saving treatment medication. Alberta’s government is also investing in 11 recovery communities, three of which are operational.

    Quick facts

    • Albertans struggling with opioid addiction can contact the Virtual Opioid Dependency Program (VODP) by calling 1-844-383-7688, seven days a week, from 6 a.m. to midnight daily. VODP provides same-day access to addiction medicine specialists. There is no waitlist.
    • Albertans can call 211 Alberta for information on services and supports in their community.

    Related information

    • Alberta Recovery Model

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Poll Shows Massive Support for President Trump and His Agenda

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    A new poll by Harvard CAPS-Harris reveals the majority of the country backs President Donald J. Trump and his actions to bring much-needed reforms that are making America great again.
    Americans overwhelmingly support President Trump’s agenda.
    81% support deporting criminal illegal immigrants.
    76% support a “full-scale effort to find and eliminate fraud and waste in government.”
    76% support closing the border with additional security and policies.
    69% support keeping men out of women’s sports.
    68% support government declaring there are only two genders.
    65% support ending race-based hiring in government.
    63% support “freezing and re-evaluating all foreign aid expenditures and the department that handled them.”
    61% support reciprocal tariffs.
    60% support direct U.S. negotiations with Russia to end the war in Ukraine.
    59% support cutting government spending already approved by Congress.
    57% support ending the ban on new offshore drilling.

    Most Americans approve of President Trump’s job performance — including pluralities of men, women, independents, and Americans who live in urban, suburban, and rural areas — while almost six-in-ten say he’s doing a better job than President Biden.
    Almost half of Americans believe the U.S. economy is “strong” under President Trump — the highest number since 2021 — while a plurality say his policies will make them “financially better off.”
    Americans are significantly more optimistic about the direction of the country, with those who say we’re on the right track up 14 points over last month.
    Americans strongly support President Trump’s effort to root out waste, fraud, and abuse in government.
    77% support a “full examination of all government expenditures.”
    72% agree there should be a government agency “focused on efficiency.”
    70% say government is “filled with waste, fraud, and inefficiency.”
    Two-thirds say Congress should join the “effort to reduce government expenditures.”

    Americans back President Trump’s action to protect American workers.
    61% support reciprocal tariffs.
    57% say tariffs are an “effective foreign and economic policy tool.”
    54% say tariffs will help get “concessions from other countries.”

    President Trump, Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, and Attorney General Pam Bondi all enjoy net positive favorability.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Advocacy – New Report Shows Existing Approach to Dental Care “Not Fit for Purpose” – Action Station

    Source: Action Station

    A landmark report is published today by the Dental for All Coalition telling human stories of struggles with oral healthcare in New Zealand.

    One of the key conclusions of the report is that the system of $1000 grants provided by Work & Income for urgent dental care is “not fit for purpose”.

    The report focuses on, and tells the story of, ten people’s experiences with oral healthcare in New Zealand. Basic oral healthcare is free for under-18s, but must be paid for by over-18s.

    Individuals interviewed for the report explained that these grants, increased from $300 to $1000 by the last government, are limited in what they can be spent on, are inaccessible to many, and are too inflexible.

    The report says, “the means-tested system of providing grants is not meeting the needs of New Zealanders”.

    Ten stories are told in the report of individuals, from very different walks of life, who are all being failed by the current approach to oral health.

    Dental care is outside of New Zealand’s public healthcare system, and the stories showcase the stigma, shame, and pain that is felt when people cannot afford basic dental care.

    The report, “I Didn’t Want to Smile”, calls for universal, free, Te Tiriti o Waitangi-consistent dental.

    “What was really revealing about the conversations I had for this report,” said report author Kayli Taylor, of ActionStation and the Dental for All coalition, “is that people are searching for other support in the healthcare system, for example through GPs or are requiring hospitalisation, because public oral healthcare is not available.”

    “Another theme of the report,” Taylor adds, “is that small problems can really balloon, leading to loss of teeth or financial stress, because dental is not part of the public healthcare system. Funding regular, preventative oral healthcare would help stop small problems from becoming larger ones.”

    “It is clear from the stories shared in this report that the status quo is not working – our privatised, costly dental system is preventing people from accessing the care they need,” adds Taylor.

    The report is the first publication that the group is aware of that has used detailed interviews to focus on the lived experience of individuals struggling with dental care in New Zealand.

    Another theme of the report is that people are making impossible choices because of the high cost of dental, and are forced to go into overdraft or face significant pain because of the failings of the current system.

    Brooke Pao Stanley (Manaaki Rangatahi, Auckland Action Against Poverty) says she has seen people struggling with dental costs in her work in South Auckland and there is a need for change.

    “In my work at Auckland Action Against Poverty, I heard again and again about people not affording dental, and I think the way forward is to treat your teeth like we do the rest of our body, and make oral healthcare free as part of our public healthcare system,” says Stanley.

    A 2022 poll showed that 74% of people in New Zealand support making oral healthcare free.

    In the 2023 election the Labour Party promised free dental for under 30s, the Green Party promised free public dental for all, and Te Pāti Māori promised free dental for those earning under $60,000.

    The final words of the report read: “What the voices in this report are asking for is simple. To be able to smile. To be able to live without shame or stigma. As a society, are we going to continue to tell people that this is too much to ask for?”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –