NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – War in the Middle East – E-002364/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU is deeply alarmed by the situation in the Middle East. The EU has consistently called on all parties to exercise the utmost restraint, put an end to all hostilities immediately and fully abide by international law, including international humanitarian law[1].

    The EU welcomes the ceasefire agreements reached between Israel and Lebanon on 27 November 2024 and between Israel and Hamas on 19 January 2025.

    The EU is constantly monitoring the humanitarian and human rights situation in the Middle East. Since the onset of the crisis in Gaza, the EU has deployed all available humanitarian instruments to ease the suffering of Palestinians, providing a total of EUR 330 million in aid, operated a humanitarian air bridge with 65 flights, and activated the EU Civil Protection Mechanism[2] for medical evacuations.

    The EU increased its humanitarian aid to Lebanon by EUR 40 million, bringing the total to over EUR 104 million for 2024. The EU also continues to support the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East with EUR 82 million and a top of EUR 10 million disbursed in 2024.

    The EU raises its concerns about the human rights’ situation at bilateral and multilateral level. The EU deplores the unacceptable number of civilian casualties, especially women and children.

    The EU remains committed to ending impunity and ensuring accountability for all violations of international law. The EU is active in upholding international justice, including supporting the International Criminal Court as an independent and impartial judicial body.

    The EU is engaging with its partners to revitalise a political horizon and is ready to contribute to reviving a political process, on the basis of the two-state solution premise.

    • [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/jhlenhaj/euco-conclusions-19122024-en.pdf
    • [2] https://civil-protection-humanitarian-aid.ec.europa.eu/what/civil-protection/eu-civil-protection-mechanism_en
    Last updated: 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The role of TikTok in the Romanian presidential election – E-002794/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Democracy is a core value of the EU with free and fair elections at its heart. Member States are responsible for organising elections according to national constitutional rules, legislation, international obligations, and EU law.

    The Digital Services Act (DSA)[1] contains regulatory means for scrutinising the risks around the design, functioning, or the use made of very large online platforms and search engines , including the dissemination of illegal content, or to any negative effects on civic discourse and electoral processes.

    In the context of the Romanian Presidential elections, following the analysis of TikTok’s risk assessment reports, TikTok’s replies to the Commission’s requests for information[2], as well as third-party reports and internal Commission testing and evidence collection, the Commission opened a third set of proceedings against TikTok[3] based on suspected infringements of the DSA concerning systemic risks to civic discourse and electoral processes.

    Additionally, the Commission issued a ‘retention order’ to TikTok[4], ordering to freeze and preserve data related to actual or foreseeable systemic risks its service could pose on electoral processes and civic discourse in the EU.

    In these proceedings, the Commission will investigate TikTok’s compliance with DSA obligations on the assessment and mitigation of systemic risks[5] related to civic discourse and electoral processes stemming from the intentional manipulation of TikTok’s services, including its recommender systems, and the dissemination of political advertisements and paid-for political content, despite prohibition of such advertisements and content in TikTok’s terms and conditions.

    • [1] 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 (Digital Services Act) (Text with EEA relevance)
      PE/30/2022/REV/1. OJ L 277, 27.10.2022, p. 1-102.
    • [2] The Commission sent requests for information on 2 October, 29 November and 5 December 2024 https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/policies/list-designated-vlops-and-vloses
    • [3] https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/news/commission-opens-formal-proceedings-against-tiktok-election-risks-under-digital-services-act
    • [4] https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/news/commission-online-platforms-and-civil-society-increase-monitoring-during-romanian-elections
    • [5] DSA Articles 34 and 35.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION the recent dismissals and arrests of mayors in Türkiye – B10-0121/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law
    pursuant to Rule 150 of the Rules of Procedure

    Sebastião Bugalho, Vangelis Meimarakis, Željana Zovko, Wouter Beke, Antonio López‑Istúriz White, Isabel Wiseler‑Lima, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Tomáš Zdechovský, Mirosława Nykiel, Jessica Polfjärd, Luděk Niedermayer, Jan Farský, Inese Vaidere
    on behalf of the PPE Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    Document selected :  

    B10-0121/2025

    Texts tabled :

    B10-0121/2025

    Texts adopted :

    B10‑0212/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on  the recent dismissals and arrests of mayors in Türkiye

    (2025/2546(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

     – having regard to its previous resolutions on Türkiye,

     

    – having regard to the recommendations of the Venice Commission and Türkiye’s commitment to the European Charter of Local Self-Government,

     

    – having regard to the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and rulings of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR),

     

    –  having regard to Rules 150(5) of its Rules of Procedure,

     

    1. whereas Türkiye is expected, as a candidate country, to uphold the highest standards of democracy, including respect for human rights, the rule of law, credible elections, fundamental freedoms, and the universal right to a fair trial and the accession process is stalled since 2018 due to the continued deterioration of these;

     

    1. whereas Türkiye has systematically misused counterterrorism laws to target elected officials, opposition politicians, and human rights defenders, as noted by the UN Special Rapporteur and the Venice Commission;

     

    1. whereas Türkiye’s longstanding practice of replacing democratically elected mayors with government-appointed trustees instead of a member of the municipal council is rooted in discriminatory anti-Kurdish policies and has severely undermined local democracy;

     

    1. whereas since the 2024 local elections, the Interior Ministry has dismissed eight mayors from the pro-Kurdish DEM Party and two from the opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), replacing them with Ankara-appointed provincial and district governors;

     

    1. whereas several of these mayors, including DEM mayors Mehmet Sıddık Akış (Hakkari) and Abdullah Zeydan (Van), as well as CHP mayor Hasan Akgün (Büyükçekmece), have been arrested based on vague and unsubstantiated terrorism-related allegations;

     

    1. whereas this practice is enabled by legal amendments introduced via emergency decree in 2016, which allow mayors to be removed without a final court conviction;

     

    1. whereas state-appointed trustee mayors in the southeast region have previously engaged in policies that erase Kurdish cultural identity;

     

    1. Condemns the arbitrary dismissal and imprisonment of democratically elected mayors and their replacement by unelected government trustees, a practice that violates democratic principles and disenfranchises millions of voters;

     

    1. Calls for the immediate release of imprisoned mayors, and for the reinstatement of all dismissed mayors unless there is credible, court-verified evidence of wrongdoing, in line with international legal standards;

     

    1. Urges Türkiye to cease the politically motivated misuse of counterterrorism laws against opposition politicians, human rights defenders, and journalists, including Sener Levent and Ali Kismir;
    2. Expresses deep concern over the impact of these actions on local governance, particularly in Kurdish-majority areas;

     

    1. Calls for judicial reforms to restore the independence of the judiciary, ensure fair trial rights, and prevent political interference in legal proceedings;

     

    1. Urges Türkiye to align its policies with the ECHR and fully implement all ECtHR rulings, in line with Article 46, including cases involving political imprisonment;

     

    1. Reaffirms the EU’s commitment to supporting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in Türkiye, and calls on EU institutions and Member States to closely monitor the situation and take necessary diplomatic measures;

     

    1. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the VP/HR, and the Turkish authorities.

     

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the continuing detention and risk of death penalty for individuals in Nigeria based on blasphemy charge, notably the case of Yahaya Sharif-Aminu – B10-0113/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    B10‑0113/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on the continuing detention and risk of death penalty for individuals in Nigeria based on blasphemy charge, notably the case of Yahaya Sharif-Aminu

    (2025/2548(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to Rule 150 (5) of its Rules of Procedure,

     

     

     

    A. whereas in 2020 Yahaya Sharif-Aminu was sentenced to death by hanging for sharing song lyrics on WhatsApp that were deemed blasphemous toward the prophet Mohammed; whereas Sharif-Aminu has appealed his case to the Supreme Court of Nigeria, challenging the constitutionality of Sharia-based blasphemy laws;

     

    B.  whereas particularly Christians continue to be targeted by Islamist groups, including Boko Haram, ISWAP (Islamic State in West Africa Province), Fulani militants and other armed bandit groups;

     

    C. whereas Nigeria’s population is forecast to grow to 377 million people by 2050, overtaking the United States (US) to become the world’s third most populated country; whereas this demographic explosion will continue to fuel the mass migration of especially young Nigerians to the EU; whereas in the Sahel and Lake Chad region, Nigeria is the first country of illegal migration towards Europe; whereas in September 2024, the European Court of Auditors criticised the 5 billion Euro EU Emergency Trust Fund for Africa for not concentrating enough on the priorities to tackle the root causes of illegal migration;

     

     

    1.  Takes note of the constitutionality challenge of Yahaya Sharif-Aminu against the Sharia-based blasphemy laws in Nigeria;

     

    2.  Considers that it is not consistent to advocate for Yahaya’s freedom while simultaneously

     applauding and supporting “hate speech” laws that are, in fact, a secular equivalent to blasphemy laws; rejects, in this regard, the Commission’s proposal to extend the list of EU crimes in Article 83 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) to include hate speech;

     

    3.  Encourages Nigeria to address the root causes of illegal migration and calls on the EU and Nigeria to step up cooperation to combat illegal migration through intelligence sharing, joint law enforcement efforts and support for repatriation programs;

     

    4.  Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Vice-   President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and

     Security Policy, the European External Action Service, the governments and parliaments

     of the Member States and the President, government and parliament of Nigeria.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION Recent dismissals and arrests of mayors in Türkiye – B10-0100/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law
    pursuant to Rule 150 of the Rules of Procedure

    Isabel Serra Sánchez, Özlem Demirel
    on behalf of The Left Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    Document selected :  

    B10-0100/2025

    Texts tabled :

    B10-0100/2025

    Texts adopted :

    B10‑0100/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on Recent dismissals and arrests of mayors in Türkiye

    (2025/2546(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    –  having regard to Rule 150 of its Rules of Procedure,

     

    1. whereas after the 2024 municipal elections the Interior Ministry has ordered the appointment of “trustees” in place of eight mayors and municipalities from the pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party, DEM (Ahmet Türk, Gülistan Sönük, Mehmet Karayılan, Cevdet Konak, Ayvaz Hazır removed in November 2024;  Sıddık Akış removed in June 2024; and Hoşyar Sarıyıldız and Sofya Alağaş removed in January 2025), and two Kurdish mayors elected from the main opposition Republican People’s Party, CHP (Ahmet Özer, removed in October 2024 and Mustafa Sarıgül, removed in November); whereas two DEM mayors and one CHP mayor are currently in detention; whereas these actions have been widely criticized as politically motivated;

     

    1. whereas Riza Akpolat, the mayor of Istanbul’s Besiktas district and a member of the CHP, has been controversially detained on allegations of tender rigging; whereas Ekrem Imamoglu, Mayor of Istanbul, is facing multiple legal challenges and faces possible political disqualification if his conviction for allegedly insulting members of Türkiye’s high electoral board, is upheld;

     

    1. whereas these cases are part of a broader strategy to suppress dissent and undermine democratic processes; whereas the replacement of mayors with “trustees” has happened twice before, first in the period 2016-17 and then in 2019;

     

     

     

    1. Deplores the serious backsliding on fundamental freedoms, the human rights situation in Türkiye and the continued erosion of democracy and the rule of law;
    2. Calls on the authorities to cease the practice of removing mayors and appointing trustees which eliminate the Kurds’ right to vote, to be elected and to representation, and is a violation of the right to free and fair elections and erode local democracy; urges the release and reinstatement of democratically elected mayors and officials;
    3. Urges to put an end to the repression of political opponents, human rights defenders, civil servants, journalists, writers and academics; calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all people arbitrarily detained such as Figen Yüksekdağ, Selahattin Demirtaş, Osman Kavala, Çiğdem Mater, Mine Özerden, Can Atalay, and Tayfun Kahraman, and that the charges against them be immediately dropped or cancelled;
    4. Strongly condemns the use of the justice system for political purposes; requires to ensure the independence of the judiciary, and to guarantee the right to due process;
    5. Urges the authorities to ensure that existing legislation – in particular the anti-terror Law, the Criminal Code, the law on assemblies and demonstrations and the law on disinformation– is revised to comply with international standards;
    6. Condemns the repression faced by those demonstrating against these disqualifications and calls on the authorities to respect the right to freedom of assembly and association;
    7. Requires to the Council to ensure that full implementation by Türkiye of its rule of law and fundamental rights obligations be an integral part of the EU-Türkiye relationship;
    8. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the EU institutions, Member States, and the Türkiyes authorities.

     

    Last updated: 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION Repression by the Ortega-Murillo regime in Nicaragua, targeting human rights defenders, political opponents and religious communities in particular – B10-0134/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    B10‑0134/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on the repression by the Ortega-Murillo regime in Nicaragua, targeting human rights defenders, political opponents and religious communities in particular

    (2025/2547(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    − having regard to Rule 150(5) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas since 2018, the Nicaraguan Government has systematically persecuted, repressed and incarcerated dissidents, political opponents, community and religious leaders, human rights defenders, civil society organisations and journalists;

    B. whereas the regime has intensified its repression through the forced expulsion, arbitrary deprivation of nationality and confiscation of assets of over 400 Nicaraguans, with 135 deported to Guatemala in September 2024; whereas Spain has consistently offered its citizenship to Nicaraguan exiles;

    C. whereas 46 people are reported to remain imprisoned in Nicaragua for political reasons; whereas families of detainees have denounced inhumane conditions;

    D. whereas the regime has deployed a strategy of systematic repression against civil society and religious communities; whereas the government has closed at least 58 media outlets, and, according to the IACHR, has revoked the legal status of over 5,000 non-governmental organisations, with more than 1,500 shut down on 20 August 2024;

    E. whereas in September 2024, the Criminal Code was amended to allow for prosecuting in absentia people outside the country, facilitating the persecution of dissidents in exile and the seizure of assets;

    F. whereas in November 2024, the Constitution was amended, deepening the concentration of power in the executive, and providing legal cover to the arbitrary deprivation of nationality;

    G. whereas in February 2025, Nicaragua announced its withdrawal from the Food and Agriculture Organization, adding to the increasing isolation of the country from the international community;

    1. Strongly condemns the Nicaraguan government for its systematic persecution and repression, including through the use of forced exile and statelessness, of dissident voices, community and religious leaders, human rights defenders, civil society organisations and journalists;

    2. Expresses its deep concerns over recent legislative and constitutional changes; strongly urges Nicaragua to repeal all repressive legislation passed since 2018;

    3. Urges the Nicaraguan Government to immediately and unconditionally release all political prisoners; to ensure, in the meantime, that they have regular and unrestricted access to food, medical care, their family and lawyers of their choice; to withdraw all legal proceedings against them; to allow the safe return of refugees and exiles; to return all unduly seized assets; and to restore full respect for human rights;

    4. Calls on the Nicaraguan authorities to stop unduly closing non-governmental organisations, to restore the legal personality of all organisations, political parties, universities and media outlets that have been arbitrarily shut down, and to return all unduly seized assets;

    5. Calls on the EU and its Member States to provide support to the people that are detained, to strengthen support for civil society organisations, journalists and human rights defenders both in Nicaragua and in exile, and to intensify efforts to host, protect and assist those displaced and expelled from Nicaragua; welcomes the Spanish government’s initiative to offer nationality to exiles and their families;

    6. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Nicaraguan authorities, the Council, the Commission, and the HR/VP.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION Repression by the Ortega-Murillo regime in Nicaragua, targeting human rights defenders, political opponents and religious communities in particular – B10-0131/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law

    Bernard Guetta, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Benoit Cassart, Olivier Chastel, Engin Eroglu, Karin Karlsbro, Ľubica Karvašová, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Urmas Paet, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar
    on behalf of the Renew Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    B10‑0131/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on the repression by the Ortega-Murillo regime in Nicaragua, targeting human rights defenders, political opponents and religious communities in particular

    (2025/2547(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to its previous resolutions on Nicaragua,

    – having regard to Rules 150 of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas on 30th January 2025 the Nicaraguan National Assembly approved a constitutional reform that, radically changes the foundations of the State and the Nicaraguan political system; whereas it eliminates the division of powers, gives the Presidency control over all branches of government, independent institutions and the media and ignores the adherence of Nicaragua to international human rights conventions and treaties, including the one prohibiting torture;

    B. whereas since 2018, the Nicaraguan regime has systematically, repeatedly and arbitrarily incarcerated, harassed and intimidated human rights defenders, opposition and religious representatives, among others; whereas over 5600 NGOs have been dissolved, including religious groups, and their assets have been confiscated;

    C. whereas the main political opponents were imprisoned months before the elections, later expelled from the country together with human rights defenders, stripped of their nationality, and deprived of their political rights after being accused of “coup plotting” and “treason”;

    1. Strongly condemns the Nicaraguan regime’s widespread repression; calls on the release of all those arbitrarily detained, the restoration of the rule of law and freedoms, the cessation of repression, the restoration of rights to exiles and their safe return; insist that they are sine qua non conditions for any prospect of meaningful dialogue;

    2. Denounces the use of statelessness and exile as a weapon against any dissenting voice; reiterates the need to put an end to restrictions on civic space and respect the right to dissent;

    3. Calls on the Nicaraguan regime to reverse the constitutional reform and all repressive laws, to fully respect its international human rights obligations and to implement the recommendations made by the UN Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua;

    4. Calls on the European Union and its Member States to include specific guarantees of respect for human rights with regard to the European funds allocated, as well as funds channelled through multilateral and financial institutions, and to ensure, through strict control, that these funds do not contribute to reinforce the Nicaraguan regime;

    5. Calls on the relevant authorities to strengthen support for the Nicaraguan opposition currently in exile, and to maintain close cooperation with countries receiving large numbers of migrants fleeing the country;

    6. Recalls that in the light of the Association Agreement between the EU and Central America, Nicaragua must respect and consolidate the principles of the rule of law, democracy and human rights; reiterates its demand to trigger the democratic clause of the Association Agreement;

    7. Reiterates its call to include Daniel Ortega and his inner circle in the list of EU sanctioned individuals and entities;

    8. Calls for the immediate extradition of Alessio Casimirri to Italy;

    9. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the HR/VP, the OAS, the EuroLat Parliamentary Assembly, the Central American Parliament, the Presidency Pro Tempore of CELAC, the Vatican and the Government and Parliament of the Republic of Nicaragua.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION Repression by the Ortega-Murillo regime in Nicaragua, targeting human rights defenders, political opponents and religious communities in particular – B10-0135/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law

    Adam Bielan, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Mariusz Kamiński, Ondřej Krutílek, Veronika Vrecionová, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Assita Kanko, Ivaylo Valchev, Alexandr Vondra, Aurelijus Veryga, Alberico Gambino
    on behalf of the ECR Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    B10‑0135/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on the repression by the Ortega-Murillo regime in Nicaragua, targeting human rights defenders, political opponents and religious communities in particular

    (2025/2547(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to its previous resolutions on Nicaragua,

    – having regard to Rule 150(5) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas since 2018 Nicaragua’s Ortega-Murillo regime intensified repression, expanding the use of forced exile and citizenship revocation as ways to target government critics and human rights defenders; whereas over 450 people have been deprived of Nicaraguan nationality since February 2023; whereas the situation is exploited by smuggling gangs operating across the region, often in collaboration with Ortega-aligned regimes in Venezuela and Cuba;

    B. whereas in January 2025 Nicaragua’s parliament ratified a constitutional amendment that elevates Ortega’s wife, Rosario Murillo, to the position of co-president and grants the Ortega-Murillo regime powers to coordinate all previously independent legislative, judicial, electoral and supervisory bodies;

    C. whereas the government has intensified its campaign against religious institutions, in particular the Catholic church; whereas since October 2023, Nicaragua has forced over 240 religious figures, including 46 priests and bishops, into exile, deported them, or barred their return to the country: whereas Bishop Rolando Álvarez was sentenced to 26 years in prison and later forced into exile; whereas dozens of churches have had their legal status revoked and around 80 percent of NGO that operated in Nicaragua were shut down, including charitable organization; whereas in January 2025 around 30 Poor Clare nuns and the Discalced Carmelite friars were forced into exile;

    1. Strongly condemns the Ortega-Murillo regime’s widespread perpetration of systematic and deliberate human rights violations against its population for purely political reasons; expresses concern  about the manipulation of criminal law and the use of the justice system as a tool to criminalise the exercise of civil and political rights, as well as the freedom of religion and belief;

    2. Condemns recent attacks on the leadership of the Catholic Church; denounces the repression against political opposition figures and Christian believers, as well as human rights defenders and journalists; urges the Nicaraguan regime to immediately end the repression and restore full respect for all human rights, including freedom of expression, religion and belief;

    3. Calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all imprisoned religious leaders and political prisoners, and for all legal proceedings against them to be annulled; condemns the abusive detention and the lack of trial guarantees and the illegal convictions of political prisoners;

    4. Calls on the authorities to restore Nicaraguan citizenship to all those from whom it has been arbitrarily and illegally removed;

    5. Calls on the government to reinstate the legal status of all civil society organizations and to unfreeze the bank accounts of universities, non-governmental organizations and religious groups;

    6. Deplores Nicaragua’s bond with authoritarian regimes in Havana and Caracas, as well as political, and military strategic alignment with Russia and China;

    7. Reiterates its call for the list of individuals and entities sanctioned by the EU to be expanded, and to cooperate with the US on fighting human trafficking gangs and drug cartels;

    8. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Parliament and Government of Nicaragua.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION Repression by the Ortega-Murillo regime in Nicaragua, targeting human rights defenders, political opponents and religious communities in particular – B10-0132/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law

    Hermann Tertsch, Jorge Martín Frías, Gerolf Annemans, Nikola Bartůšek, Roberto Vannacci, Susanna Ceccardi
    on behalf of the PfE Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    B10‑0132/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on the repression by the Ortega-Murillo regime in Nicaragua, targeting human rights defenders, political opponents and religious communities in particular

    (2025/2547(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to Rule 150 of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas on 15 September, 2022, this Parliament approved a resolution strongly condemning the systematic repression by the Daniel Ortega-Rosario Murillo regime in Nicaragua, in particular against the Catholic Church, with the case of bishop, and Sakharov prize finalist, Orlando Alvarez;

    B. whereas persecution and harassment against the Catholic Church is a consequence of its role as mediators in the 2018 National Dialogue;

    C. whereas, according to Open Doors International and its World Watch List, hundreds of Christian organisations have lost their legal status in Nicaragua due to arbitrary regime decisions;

    D. whereas attacks against the Catholic Church, other religious communities, and critics with the regime include killings, arbitrarily arrests, dead threats, tortures, enforces disappearances, forced exiles, closure of missionaries and charity associations, and closing of radio/TV stations;

    E. whereas, according to the International Republican Institute, after April 2018 more than 730 citizens were arbitrarily imprisoned, including political and religious leaders, human rights defenders, students, journalists and other members of  civil society, being accused of crimes such as terrorist acts, conspiracy or treachery, and facing harsh imprisonment conditions; whereas, according to the OAS, 36 citizens remained imprisoned;

    F. whereas human rights violations and abuses perpetrated since April 2018 are not an isolated phenomenon, but the result of a planned process to concentrate all powers in the figures of the dictators Ortega-Murillo;

    G. whereas systematic repression has triggered a migration and humanitarian crisis in the region, with thousands of Nicaraguans fleeing the country every year; whereas migration is being weaponised by the Ortega-Murillo regime to destabilize the region;

    H. whereas the Nicaraguan regime has been consistently supported to remain in power by other dictatorships in the region such as Cuba and Venezuela; whereas Russia has an increasing military presence;

    1. Condemns in the strongest possible terms the repression and arbitrary arrests by the Nicaraguan regime against members of the Catholic Church, religious and political leaders, human rights defenders, and all those citizens critics with the regime;

    2. Calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all those arbitrarily detained, and for all legal proceedings against them to be annulled, including their sentences; calls for the immediate extradition of Alessio Casimirri, currently living in Managua under the protection of the Nicaraguan regime, to Italy;

    3. Stresses that the judicial system lacks independence from the executive branch; expresses concern about the manipulation of criminal law and the use of the justice system as a tool to criminalise the exercise of civil and political rights in the country;

    4. Calls on the Council to immediately adopt further and tougher sanctions against Ortega-Murillo and all their proxies, responsible for systematic human rights violations in Nicaragua; demands the immediate cessation of all financial aid from the EU to Nicaragua;

    5. Calls on the EU and its Member States to support investigations leading to prosecute Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo for crimes against humanity;

    6. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the relevant parties.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION Repression by the Ortega-Murillo regime in Nicaragua, targeting human rights defenders, political opponents and religious communities in particular – B10-0130/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    B10‑0130/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on the repression by the Ortega-Murillo regime in Nicaragua, targeting human rights defenders, political opponents and religious communities in particular

    (2025/2547(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to Rule 150(5) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas the Ortega-Murillo regime has since 2018 targeted Christians in retaliation for their peaceful opposition to a social security reform; whereas, in addition to the repression against the Catholic Church in recent years, the evangelical church and other religious communities are now also increasingly targeted; whereas Christian schools, TV stations and charities have been closed and churches monitored and intimidated;

    B. whereas the Ortega-Murillo regime traffics migrants to systematically increase migration pressure on the United States (US) and fuel remittance payments, which now comprise 30 per cent of Nicaragua’s gross domestic product; whereas the Ortega-Murillo regime has loosened visa restrictions for countries across the Caribbean, Asia and Africa and sells short-time visas to migrants; whereas the Ortega-Murillo regime organises charter flights for migrants, charging migrants exorbitant visa fees; whereas 10 per cent of all migrants arriving at the US’ southern border start the trek in Nicaragua;

    C. whereas according to US Customs and Border Protection figures, more than 80 per cent of people held or denied entry between October 2020 and June 2024 were citizens from Latin America;

    1. Strongly condemns the severe persecution of Christians and political opponents by the Ortega-Murillo regime;

    2. Strongly condemns the weaponisation of migration by the Ortega-Murillo regime; emphasises that migration is becoming a systemic geopolitical challenge;

    3. Notes that the increasing number of illegal migrants to the US directly relates to the growth in human trafficking and smuggling by criminal groups; refers, in this regard, to a 2023 report by the US Department of Homeland Security, indicating that 80 per cent of illegal border crossings were organised by smugglers, resulting in an estimated revenue between 4 billion to 12 billion US dollar a year;

    4. Strongly supports the executive orders of the new US Donald Trump administration in the field of asylum and migration;

    5. Is of the opinion, that the sanctions imposed on Nicaragua, particularly by the USA and the EU, are counterproductive, worsening the economic and humanitarian situation;

    6. Notes that more than a fifth of Nicaragua’s population has already left the country and is worried that new punitive economic sanctions will only lead to further emigration;

    7. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Vice- President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the European External Action Service, the governments and parliaments of the Member States and the President, government and parliament of Nicaragua.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION Repression by the Ortega-Murillo regime in Nicaragua, targeting human rights defenders, political opponents and religious communities in particular – B10-0128/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law

    Diana Riba i Giner, Catarina Vieira, Maria Ohisalo, Nicolae Ştefănuță, Ville Niinistö
    on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    B10‑0128/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on the repression by the Ortega-Murillo regime in Nicaragua, targeting human rights defenders, political opponents and religious communities in particular

    (2025/2547(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to Rule 150 of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas the National Assembly approved a constitutional reform establishing a co-presidency, eliminating all guarantees of separation of powers and political pluralism, eliminating the right to strike, the explicit prohibition of torture and weakening essential procedural guarantees;

    B. whereas the ongoing deterioration of fundamental rights takes place in a context of an increasingly repressive regulatory framework, systematic persecution, criminalization, harassment, police hounding and acts of repression; whereas attacks on freedom of expression, conscience and religion have intensified;

    C. whereas over 450 people have been deprived of Nicaraguan nationality;

    D. whereas since April 2018, the Nicaraguan authorities have cancelled over 5,600 NGOs;

    1. Is deeply concerned by the changes introduced by the constitutional reform which seriously impacts the guarantees of future free and fair elections; urges the authorities to review this reform in order to guarantee rule of law and the separation of the executive, legislative, electoral and judicial branches;

    2. Condemns the systematic repression against the opposition, indigenous people, students, NGOs and religious leaders; condemns the use of the criminal law to persecute opponents, to suppress any criticism or opposition; calls on the Nicaraguan authorities to cease politically motivated persecution, criminalization, arbitrary detention;

    3. Condemns the provisions institutionalizing the state’s power to strip citizens’ nationality for the broadly defined crime of treason; condemns the arbitrary deprivation of Nicaraguan citizenship for at least 450 individuals; urges the Nicaraguan authorities to ensure full access to and enjoyment of the right to nationality to all, and to take measures to prevent and eradicate statelessness; urges the Nicaraguan authorities to guarantee family reunification, facilitating the issue and validity of basic official documentation in order for those affected by the violations to be able to exercise citizenship rights;

    4. Calls for the immediate release of the 45 remaining political prisoners;

    5. Supports the renewal of the Human Rights Council’s Group of Expert on Nicaragua;

    6. Calls on the Nicaraguan authorities to guarantee the life and integrity of human rights defenders who remain in Nicaragua; highlights the key role played by civil society, human rights defenders, journalists and religious leaders in Nicaragua; calls on the EU to increase support for those still in the country and currently in exile;

    7. Is particularly worried by the impact of the US aid freeze on programs and NGOs in Nicaragua;

    8. Urges the EU to hold the Nicaraguan authorities accountable including through Universal Jurisdiction cases, for repression in the country and to explore international mechanisms to hold Nicaraguan authorities accountable for violations of the 1961 convention on the reduction of statelessness and the 1984 convention against torture;

    9. Supports the efforts of the EU Delegations to closely monitor developments that are taking place in Nicaragua, including trial monitoring and visiting political prisoners in prison or under house arrest;

    10. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Member States, the Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly, the Central American Parliament and the authorities of the Republic of Nicaragua.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION the recent dismissals and arrests of mayors in Türkiye – B10-0115/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law
    pursuant to Rule 150 of the Rules of Procedure

    Sebastiaan Stöteler, Marieke Ehlers, Jaroslav Bžoch, Roberto Vannacci, Susanna Ceccardi
    on behalf of the PfE Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    Document selected :  

    B10-0115/2025

    Texts tabled :

    B10-0115/2025

    Texts adopted :

    B10‑0115/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on  the recent dismissals and arrests of mayors in Türkiye

    (2025/2546(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

      having regard to its previous resolutions on Türkiye,

     

    – having regard to Rule 144 of its Rules of Procedure,

     

    1. whereas human rights and the rule of law continue to deteriorate in Türkiye; whereas Turkish authorities have increasingly dismissed and replaced elected mayors and stepped up investigations and detentions of opposition figures, raising concerns about a growing crackdown on dissent against the government; whereas increasingly CHP and pro-Kurdish DEM Party mayors have been arrested and ousted, including for alleged terrorism ties and for alleged tender rigging;

     

    1. whereas a judicial probe has been launched against the mayor of Istanbul, Ekrem Imamoglu, a member of the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), a reported future presidential challenger; whereas Istanbul’s Chief Prosecutor’s Office is seeking a prison term of up to seven years and four months, for charges including insulting a public official and threatening and targeting people tasked with counter-terrorism;

     

    1. whereas the CHP has criticised the Istanbul prosecutor and the judiciary of being a tool used by President Erdogan’s ruling AK Party (AKP) to silence opposition; whereas in the municipal elections held in March 2024, the AKP suffered heavy losses; whereas Türkiye’s Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc has dismissed the accusation that the judiciary is politicised;

     

    1. whereas President Erdogan and Turkish senior officials have met with senior members of EU-listed terror organisations, such as Hamas, and Türkiye has provided passports and identity cards to Hamas members; whereas Türkiye has openly expressed support for Hamas’ mission and movement; whereas Türkiye has donated hundreds of millions of euros to Hamas and has increased its support to the organisation since the 7 October 2023 Hamas massacre and kidnapping of Israelis;

     

    D.  whereas in 1987, Türkiye applied to join the European Economic Community, and in 1999 was eligible to join the EU; whereas Accession negotiations started in 2005, but have been stalled by the Council due to Türkiye’s continued backsliding in the functioning of the democratic system, respect for fundamental rights and judicial independence; whereas in 2013, a visa liberalisation dialogue was launched, however, several outstanding benchmarks by Türkiye still remain;

     

    1. Expresses concern about the dismissal and arrests of mayors in Türkiye and calls on the Turkish government and authorities to cease its practice, including the end of judicial harassment against critics of the Turkish government and authorities;

     

    1. Stresses that the Turkish authorities must respect the democratic outcomes of elections and calls for the politically motivated charges against arrested mayors to be dropped;

     

    1. Calls on the Commission and the Council to consider terminating negotiations regarding Türkiye’s accession to the EU and ceasing all pre-accession funding; stresses that Türkiye is not a European country;

     

    1. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Parliaments of Member States and the Turkish Government and Parliament.

     

    Last updated: 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION Repression by the Ortega-Murillo regime in Nicaragua, targeting human rights defenders, political opponents and religious communities in particular – B10-0126/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law

    Sebastião Bugalho, Željana Zovko, Antonio López-Istúriz White, Gabriel Mato, David McAllister, Vangelis Meimarakis, Wouter Beke, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Tomáš Zdechovský, Mirosława Nykiel, Jessica Polfjärd, Luděk Niedermayer, Jan Farský, Andrey Kovatchev, Inese Vaidere
    on behalf of the PPE Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    B10‑0126/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on the repression by the Ortega-Murillo regime in Nicaragua, targeting human rights defenders, political opponents and religious communities in particular

    (2025/2547(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to its previous resolutions on Nicaragua, in particular, the one of 15 September 2022 on the arrest of the bishop Rolando Álvarez,

    – having regard to Rule 150(5) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas since 2018, the Nicaraguan regime systematically and arbitrarily incarcerated and persecuted presidential pre-candidates, opposition leaders, religious leaders – mainly Catholic-, journalists, human rights defenders, civil society organisations (CSOs), business representatives, among others; whereas since 2018, 245 members of the clergy were either arbitrarily arrested or expelled, including Bishop Rolando Álvarez, Sakharov Prize finalist;

    B. whereas on August 2024, the Ortega-Murillo regime disbanded 1,500 CSOs, among those affected are numerous religious groups mainly Catholic, bringing the total number of organisations that the regime has shut down by the regime to over 5000 since 2018;

    C. whereas on 30 January 2025, constitutional reforms were approved, giving the Ortega-Murillo regime absolute power and further dismantling the separation of powers; whereas this reform allows the regime to strip the nationality dissident voices within the country and to impose tighter control over the media and the Church;

    1. Strongly condemns the Nicaraguan regime’s widespread perpetration of systematic human rights violations against its population, democratic opposition, students, CSOs, and the persecution of the Catholic Church;

    2. Rejects the constitutional reform, as it is regressive in terms of human rights, institutionalising a totalitarian regime that is incompatible with the characteristics of a modern democratic state;

    3. Requests the Nicaraguan regime to implement the recommendations made by the GHREN, as well as those of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights;

    4. Calls for the EU and its Member States to include specific guarantees of compliance with human rights regarding European funds allocated, including through multilateral and financial institutions such as the Central American Bank for Economic Integration, and to carry out strict monitoring to ensure that they do not contribute to strengthening the Nicaraguan regime;

    5. Urges the EU to increase support for members of the Nicaraguan opposition and CSOs in exile, and to support countries receiving migrants fleeing Nicaragua, like Costa Rica;

    6. Highlights the key role played by CSOs, human rights defenders, the Church and journalists in Nicaragua; asks the EU to reinforce their regular dialogue with them and strengthen mechanisms to support their vital work;

    7. Calls on the EU Member States and the UN Security Council, in accordance with the Rome Statute, to open investigations through the International Criminal Court into Nicaragua and Daniel Ortega for crimes against humanity;

    8. Reiterates its demand that the democratic clause of the Association Agreement be triggered; rejects any prospect of holding any dialogue thought the Joint-Parliamentary Committee that includes members of the regime-controlled Nicaraguan National Assembly;

    9. Reiterates its call to expand the list of sanctioned individuals and entities to include Ortega and his inner circle;

    10. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, Commission, the VP/HR, EU Member States, the Organization of American States, the Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly, the PARLACEN, and the Nicaraguan authorities.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION the recent dismissals and arrests of mayors in Turkey – B10-0119/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law

    Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Nacho Sánchez Amor, Evin Incir, Nikos Papandreou, Pina Picierno
    on behalf of the S&D Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    B10‑0119/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on  the recent dismissals and arrests of mayors in Turkey

    (2025/2546(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

     – having regard to Rule 150(5) of its Rules of Procedure,

     

    – having regard to its previous resolutions on Türkiye,

     

     

    A. whereas in recent months the Turkish government has intensified actions against opposition mayors mainly by abusive use of anti-terror laws,

     

    B. whereas since the last local elections in Türkiye in March 2024, the Ministry of Interior has dismissed democratically elected mayors of 10 municipalities and districts (Hakkari, Mardin, Batman, Halfeti, Tunceli, Bahçesaray, Akdeniz and Siirt won by DEM Party, and Esenyurt and Ovacık won by CHP Party) and replaced them with government-appointed trustees,

     

    C. whereas the provision allowing for the dismissal of mayors was introduced under the state

    of emergency that followed the 2016 attempted military coup; whereas it was then immediately used as a tool against democratic opposition and predominantly targeted Kurdish regions; whereas even under this law there is no impediment for the trustee to be another elected member from the winning party;

     

    D. whereas on 17 January 2025 Riza Akpolat, the mayor of the Istanbul district of Besiktas, was arrested on allegations denounced to be politically motivated, and on 29 January 2025 Sofya Alagas, the elected mayor of Siirt, was removed from office and similarly replaced,

    1. Strongly condemns the Turkish Government’s unlawful decision to dismiss the democratically elected mayors of 10 municipalities and districts won by opposition parties such as the pro-Kurdish DEM Party and the main opposition party CHP and to replace them with trustees appointed by the interior ministry; considers this long-standing practice of appointing trustees as a blatant attack on basic principles of local democracy and a tool to supress political opposition;

    2. Calls on the Turkish government to immediately reinstate the dismissed mayors unless there is a conviction following a due process or credible evidence of having committed a serious crime;

    3. Urges Turkish authorities to fully respect the voters’ right to free and fair elections, and to apply, in the event of a mayor being removed, measures respecting the will of voters, such as allowing the municipal councils to democratically choose a replacement;

    4. Calls on the Turkish authorities to abolish the trustee system in line with the recommendations of the Council of Europe and the Venice Commission;

    5. Deplores the continued targeting of political parties and members of the opposition, who continue to suffer increasing pressure, such as the recent cases against Beşiktaş district mayor Rıza Akpolat, and the new and the standing cases against Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu and the mayor of Siirt Sofya Alagas,

    6. Calls on the HR/VP to consider imposing restrictive measures under the EU Human Rights sanction regime against Turkish officials accepting to be trustees;

    7. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the European Commission, the council of the European Union, the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative, the Government and Parliament of Türkiye, and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe.

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on continuing detention and risk of the death penalty for individuals in Nigeria charged with blasphemy, notably the case of Yahaya Sharif-Aminu – B10-0117/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law
    pursuant to Rule 150 of the Rules of Procedure

    Jan‑Christoph Oetjen, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Benoit Cassart, Olivier Chastel, Engin Eroglu, Karin Karlsbro, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Urmas Paet, Marie‑Agnes Strack‑Zimmermann, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar
    on behalf of the Renew Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    Document selected :  

    B10-0117/2025

    Texts tabled :

    B10-0117/2025

    Texts adopted :

    B10‑0117/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on continuing detention and risk of the death penalty for individuals in Nigeria charged with blasphemy, notably the case of Yahaya Sharif-Aminu

    (2025/2548(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to its previous resolution of 20 April 2023 on the case of Yahaya Sharif-Aminu,

    – having regard to Rule 144 of its Rules of Procedure,

     

    A. whereas in March 2020, Nigerian singer Yahaya Sharif-Aminu was arrested and his family attacked following accusations of blasphemy over a song shared online;

    B. whereas on 10 August 2020, he was sentenced to death by an Upper Sharia Court in Kano State without legal representation; whereas on 27 August 2020, the Kano State Governor publicly stated he would sign the execution warrant;

    C. whereas following legal challenges citing procedural violations and constitutional concerns, the Kano State High Court ordered a retrial in January 2021; whereas in August 2022, the Court of Appeal upheld this ruling but affirmed the constitutionality of Sharia blasphemy laws;

    D. whereas Yahaya Sharif-Aminu’s appeal to the Supreme Court remains pending; whereas in May 2024, UN human rights experts demanded his immediate release, condemning his detention as a violation of fundamental rights;

    E. whereas in November 2024, his legal counsel petitioned Nigeria’s National Assembly to challenge the constitutionality of his detention and advocate for legislative reform;

    F. whereas similar cases persist, including Deborah Yakubu, a student lynched in 2022, and Mubarak Bala, sentenced to 24 years in prison for blasphemy; whereas Rhoda Jatau was detained for two years before her acquittal in December 2024;

    G. whereas religious freedom and freedom of expression are fundamental rights that must be upheld globally;

     

    1. Condemns the continued imprisonment of Yahaya Sharif-Aminu and calls for his immediate and unconditional release and the dismissal of all charges;
    2. Welcomes Rhoda Jatau’s acquittal, but expresses grave concern over Mubarak Bala’s continued detention, and urges authorities to protect acquitted individuals from reprisals;
    3. Calls on Nigeria to repeal blasphemy laws, including Section 204 of the Criminal Code, and align national laws with international human rights obligations;
    4. Urges Nigeria to immediately impose a nationwide moratorium on executions and work towards full abolition of the death penalty for blasphemy and non-violent offenses;
    5. Denounces impunity surrounding blasphemy accusations and calls for protection against mob violence; 
    6. Calls on the Nigerian police to ensure prompt investigation and prosecution of perpetrators of mob killings related to blasphemy;
    7. Stresses Nigeria’s responsibility to lead by example in abolishing blasphemy laws that systematically endanger religious minorities, violate fundamental freedoms and fuel sectarian violence;
    8. Reaffirms the importance of international cooperation in advancing human rights and urges diplomatic engagement on blasphemy laws;
    9. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Nigerian government, National Assembly, African Union, UN, and EU institutions.

     

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister addresses the 14th India-France CEOs Forum

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Prime Minister’s Office

    Prime Minister addresses the 14th India-France CEOs Forum

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 12:16AM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the President of France, H.E. Mr. Emmanuel Macron jointly addressed the 14th India-France CEOs Forum today in Paris. The forum brought together CEOs from a diverse group of companies from both sides, focusing on sectors such as defence, aerospace, critical and emerging technologies, infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, life-sciences, wellness and lifestyle, and food and hospitality.

    Prime Minister in his address noted the expanding India-France business and economic collaboration and the impetus it has provided to the strategic partnership between the two countries. He highlighted India’s attractiveness as a favored global investment destination, based on its stable polity and predictable policy ecosystem. Talking of the reforms announced in the recent budget, PM noted that the insurance sector was now open for 100% FDI and civil nuclear energy sector for private participation with focus on SMR and AMR technologies; customs rate structure was rationalized; and simplified income tax code was being brought in to enhance Ease of Living. Referring to the government’s commitment to continue ushering in reforms, he noted that a high-level committee for regulatory reforms had been constituted to establish trust based economic governance. In the same spirit, more than 40,000 compliances had been rationalized in the last few years.

    Prime Minister invited French companies to look at the immense opportunities offered by the India growth story, in the defense, energy, highway, civil aviation, space, healthcare, fintech and sustainable development sectors. Underlining global appreciation and interest in India’s skills, talent and innovation and in its newly launched AI, Semiconductor, Quantum, Critical Minerals and Hydrogen missions, he called upon French enterprises to partner India for mutual growth and prosperity. He outlined the importance of active engagement in these sectors, reaffirming the commitment of both nations to fostering innovation, investment, and technology-driven partnerships. Full remarks of Prime Minister may be seen here

    External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, alongside the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France, H.E. Jean-Noël Barrot, and the Minister of the Economy, Finance, and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty of France, H.E. Eric Lombard also addressed the Forum.

    5. CEOs from both sides who attended the meeting were:

    Indian Side:

      Company Name(Sector) Name and Designation

    1

    Jubiliant Foodsworks/Jubiliant Life Sciences, Food and Beverage

    Hari Bhartia, Co-Chairman and Director

    2.

    CII

    Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General

    3.

    Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL), Railways and Infrastructure

    Umesh Chowdhary, Vice Chairman and Managing Director

    4.

    Bharat Light & Power Private Limited, (Renewable Energy)

    Tejpreet Chopra, President & CEO

    5.

    P Mafatlal Group, Textiles and Industrial Products

    Vishad Mafatlal, Chairman

    6.

    boat, Consumer Electronics (Wearables)

    Aman Gupta, Co-Founder

    7.

    Dalit Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DICCI), Business Advocacy and Inclusion

    Milind Kamble, Founder/Chairman

    8.

    Skyroot Aerospace, Aerospace & Space and Technology

    Pawan Kumar Chandana,Co-Founder

    9.

    Agnikul, Aerospace & Space and Technology

    Srinath Ravichandran, Co-Founder & CEO

    10.

    Tata Advanced Systems Ltd, Aerospace and Defense

    Sukaran Singh, Managing Director

    11

    UPL Group, Agrochemical and Agribusiness

    Vikram Shroff, Vice Chairman and Co-CEO

    12.

    Sula Vineyards, Food and Beverage

    Rajeev Samant, CEO

    13.

    Dynamatic Technologies Ltd, Aerospace & Defence, and Engineering

    Udayant Malhoutra, CEO & Managing Director

    14.

    Tata Consulting Engineers (TCE), Engineering and Consulting

    Amit Sharma, Managing Director & CEO

    15.

    Nykaa, Cosmetics and consumer goods

    Falguni Nayyar,CEO

    French Side:

      Company Name(Sector) Name and Designation

    1

    Air Bus, Aerospace & Defence

    Guillaume Faury, CEO

    2.

    Air Liquide, Chemicals, Health care, Engineering

    François Jackow, CEO & a member of the Board of Directors of the Air Liquide Group

    3.

    BlaBlaCar, Transport, Services

    Nicolas Brusson, CEO & Co-Founder

    4

    Capgemini Group, Information Technology, Engineering

    Aiman Ezzat, CEO

    5

    Danone, Food & Beverages

    Antoine de SAINT-AFFRIQUE, CEO

    6

    EDF, Energy, Power

    Luc Rémont, Chairman &CEO

    7

    Egis Group, Architecture Construction Engineering

    Laurent Germain,CEO

    8.

    Engie Group, Energy, Renewable Energy

    Catherine MacGregor, CEO & Board Member of ENGIE.

    9

    L’Oréal, Cosmetics & Consumer Goods

    Nicolas Hieronimus, CEO & Member of Board of Directors

    10

    Mistral AI, Artificial Intelligence

    Arthur Mensch, CEO & Co-Founder

    11

    Naval Group, Defence, Shipbuilding, Engineering

    Pierre Eric Pommellet, Chairman & CEO

    12.

    Pernod Ricard, Alcohol Beverages, FMCG

    Alexandre Ricard, Chairman & CEO

    13

    Safran, Aerospace & Defence

    Olivier Andriès, CEO

    14.

    Servier, Pharmaceuticals, Health care

    Olivier Laureau, President & CEO

    15

    Total Energies SE, Energy

    PATRICK Pouyanné, Chairman & CEO

    16

    Vicat, Construction

    Guy Sidos, Chairman & CEO

     

    ****

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2102056)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Aero India 2025: CEOs Rountable receives unprecedent response with the participation of 116 global CEOs

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Aero India 2025: CEOs Rountable receives unprecedent response with the participation of 116 global CEOs

    Announcements made regarding plans for investments, collaborations and setting-up of development centres & Centre of Excellence

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 8:53PM by PIB Delhi

    The CEOs Rountable, which was graced by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh on the opening day of 15th Aero India on February 10, 2025, received an unprecedent response with the participation of 116 global CEOs. Many foreign as well as Indian Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) made announcements regarding their plans for investments, collaborations and setting-up of development centres & Centre of Excellence etc. These include:

     

    • Announcement by Ultra Maritime & Bharat Dynamics Limited for signing of an initial contract for the co-production of US specification
    • Announcement by Bharat Forge for their plan for the manufacturing of Landing Gear for certain commercial aircrafts 100% in the country.
    • Announcement by Safran, France & Bharat Electronics Limited for their partnership for co-production of Hammer missile in India.

     

    Fifty eight (58) foreign OEMs including John Cockerill (Belgium), Airbus (France), Ultra Maritime (USA), GNT (South Korea), Mitsubishi (Japan), Safran (France), Liebherr Aerospace (France), L3Harris Technologies Inc. (USA), Thales (France), Lockheed Martin (USA), Martin Baker (UK) attended the Roundtable. The Indian OEMs included Bharat Forge Ltd, Adani Defence & Aerospace, Mahindra Defence Systems Ltd, Ashok Leyland Defence and Defence Public Sector Undertakings.

    During the meeting, Raksha Mantri invited the global OEMs to utilise the opportunities offered by the expanding Indian defence ecosystem and find targeted solutions & counter measures to the challenges emerging due to the volatile geopolitical landscape of today.

    The event was organised on the theme E.D.G.E i.e. ‘Enabling Defence Cooperation through Global Engagement’, based on  Business Centric Technology Development, Joint Ventures, Manufacturing Excellence Hubs, Industry Led Capacity Building, Joint Ventures, Co-Development & Co-Production and Technology Transfer.

    During the event, Raksha Mantri also inaugurated ‘Defence Testing Portal (DTP)’ and released a booklet on ‘Defence Testing Capabilities’ of the Directorate General of Quality Assurance (DGQA). DTP will enhance ease of doing business in defence testing by improving the visibility of defence testing infrastructure and improved transparency and accountability in conduct of defence tests. The booklet will serve as a guiding document for defence manufacturers and acts as a ready reckoner during important stages of defence procurement and delivery processes.

    A short film highlighting the robust Indian defence ecosystem and vividly capturing the remarkable evolution and strides of India’s Aerospace & Defence Sector, was showcased as a powerful testament to our unwavering commitment and bold vision for the future.

    *******

    VK/SPS/Savvy

    (Release ID: 2102023) Visitor Counter : 88

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: In the last ten years since the government headed by PM Narendra Modi took over and particularly post-Covid, Indian systems of Medicine have earned global recognition

    Source: Government of India (2)

    In the last ten years since the government headed by PM Narendra Modi took over and particularly post-Covid, Indian systems of Medicine have earned global recognition

    India Leads Global Revival of Unani Medicine, Blending Tradition with Modern Science: Dr. Jitendra Singh

    It was PM Modi who for the first time set up a separate Ministry for AYUSH and proposed International Day of Yoga

    Integrative Healthcare Takes Centre Stage as India Advances Medical Innovation with AI and Genomics in Unani Medicine, says the Minister

    India Emerges as a Hub for Unani Medicine Studies, Driving Academic and Medical Tourism Worldwide: Dr. Jitendra Singh

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 7:59PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh said today that in the last ten years since the government headed by PM Narendra Modi took over and particularly post-Covid, Indian systems of Medicine have earned global recognition. He recalled, it was PM Modi who for the first time set up a separate Ministry for AYUSH and proposed International Day of Yoga.

    The Minister reaffirmed the Modi Govt’s commitment to reviving and globalizing Unani medicine, emphasizing its crucial role in integrative healthcare solutions.

    Speaking on the occasion of Unani Day 2025 and the International Conference on “Innovations in Unani Medicine for Integrative Health Solutions – A Way Forward,”the Minister highlighted how India’s traditional medical systems are gaining renewed global recognition, particularly in the post-2014 era.

    “India possesses a vast treasure of traditional medical knowledge, which is not only our legacy but also our strength. We are ensuring that this rich legacy is preserved, modernized, and globally recognized through technology-driven innovations,” said Dr. Jitendra Singh.

    The Minister underscored that the AYUSH sector has witnessed unprecedented growth, with the manufacturing value of AYUSH-based medicines and products soaring from $3 billion in 2014 to $24 billion today, an eightfold increase. This remarkable expansion, he said, reflects India’s leadership in holistic healthcare.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for bringing holistic medicine into the mainstream through key policy reforms and international initiatives. He highlighted that the 2017 National Health Policy introduced the concept of integrated healthcare, combining Unani and Ayurveda with allopathy for a more comprehensive approach to treatment and wellness.

    “If Prime Minister Modi had not emphasized the importance of AYUSH, we would not have seen such rapid growth in the sector. Today, traditional medicine is not just being revived but is also shaping the future of healthcare worldwide,” said Dr. Jitendra Singh.

    The Minister noted that India’s leadership in preventive healthcare gained further prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic, when people across the world turned to Unani, Ayurveda, and naturopathy for immunity-boosting solutions.

    “During the pandemic, doctors and experts from across the world reached out to us for Unani and Ayurvedic formulations to boost immunity. This global recognition reinforces our responsibility to further develop and promote our traditional medical systems,” said Dr. Jitendra Singh.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh also emphasized India’s role as a pioneer in modern medical innovations, recalling how the country developed the first DNA-based COVID-19 vaccine and emerged as a global hub for preventive healthcare solutions.

    India’s next big leap in healthcare lies in integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific advancements, opined the Minister. He noted that Unani and other traditional medicine systems are being strengthened through technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Gene Therapy.

    “We are now in an era where traditional knowledge is being combined with advanced scientific techniques. Whether it is AI-driven diagnostics, genome-based therapies, or evidence-backed Unani treatments, India is leading the way in medical innovation,” said Dr. Jitendra Singh.

    Citing a recent medical breakthrough in gene therapy for Haemophilia, successfully conducted in India, Dr. Jitendra Singh asserted that the future of medicine lies in the fusion of traditional and modern approaches.

    The Minister also highlighted India’s emergence as a leading destination for medical and academic tourism. He pointed out that postgraduate courses in Unani medicine are now being offered in Hyderabad and Srinagar, making India an academic hub for holistic medicine.

    “Academic tourism is a new frontier for India. Students and researchers from across the world are now coming here to study Unani medicine. This will further strengthen India’s position as a global center for traditional medical education,” said Dr. Jitendra Singh.

    In his concluding remarks, the Minister called for a global effort to integrate Unani medicine into mainstream healthcare systems.“A truly ‘Viksit Bharat’ must be built on the foundation of a healthy India. By combining our ancient knowledge with modern scientific advancements, we can provide revolutionary healthcare solutions to the world,”.

    The International Conference on Unani Medicine will serve as a platform for global experts, researchers, and policymakers to discuss how digital advancements, scientific research, and policy reforms can drive the next wave of growth in Unani and integrative healthcare.

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    (Release ID: 2101967) Visitor Counter : 45

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh today inaugurated the 4-day International Conference on Governance dedicated to the theme “Next Generation Administrative Reforms – Reaching the Last Mile” organised jointly by the International Institute of Administrative Sciences (IIAS) and Department of Administrative Reforms Govt. of India.

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh  today inaugurated the 4-day International Conference on Governance dedicated to the theme  “Next Generation Administrative Reforms – Reaching the Last Mile” organised jointly by the International Institute of Administrative Sciences (IIAS) and Department of Administrative Reforms Govt. of India.

    An occasion of prestige for India since a conference of this nature is being hosted for the first time in India with participation of 55 countries from across the globe.

    Minister says, Not only India but the world today is discussing Viksit bharat and claimed that the transformative journey of India’s citizen-centric governance since May 26, 2014, the day when Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assumed office

    From Digital Inclusion to Space Missions Dr. Jitendra Singh highlights Governance Excellence at IIAS-DARPG Conference 2025

    India for the 1st time hosts IIAS-DARPG Conference 2025: A Landmark Event in Public Administration and Governance

    Dr. Jitendra Singh Unveils a Book titled “Viksit Bharat @2047- Governance transformed”

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 7:17PM by PIB Delhi

     Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh  today inaugurated the 4-day International Conference on Governance dedicated to the theme  “Next Generation Administrative Reforms – Reaching the Last Mile” organised jointly by the International Institute of Administrative Sciences (IIAS) and Department of Administrative Reforms Govt of India.

    The event is an occasion of prestige for India since a conference of this nature is being hosted for the first time in India with participation of nearly 55 countries from across the globe.

    Dr Jitendra Singh highlighted the significance of the conference as a platform to explore innovations in public administration, governance, and policymaking. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Singh emphasized the theme of the conference: “Next Generation Administrative Reforms – Reaching the Last Mile.”

    Dr. Jitendra Singh also released a Book on “Viksit Bharat @ 2047” themed Governance Transformed.

    The Minister said, not only India but the world today is discussing “Viksit Bharat” and claimed that  the transformative journey of India’s citizen-centric governance since May 26, 2014, the day when Narendra Modi had assumed office as the Prime Minister of India. He highlighted India’s economic transformation, from being part of the ‘Fragile Five’ to a member of the ‘First Five,’ showcasing a remarkable shift driven by reforms in public administration and governance. Dr. Jitendra Singh noted India’s impressive rise in the Global Innovation Index, moving from 81st to 39th place—a leap he described as “quantum.”

    The minister further underscored key indicators of the success of India’s next-generation administrative reforms, citing the significant expansion of broadband connectivity, which now covers almost 80% of the population. He pointed to the Swamitva Mission, which enables citizens to map their land through drones and satellites, reducing dependence on revenue officials. These reforms, he stated, have translated into tangible improvements in the ease of living for citizens.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh also lauded the government’s push towards financial inclusion, citing the rise of digital transactions and direct benefit transfers as key milestones. With 46% of the total digital transactions occurring in India, he mentioned that over 16.8 billion transactions were processed in just one month of October 2024, highlighting the positive socio-economic impact of these reforms.

    The Minister praised initiatives under the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), including CPGRAMS, one of the best grievance redressal systems in the world. He also pointed to the launch of Right to Information 2.0, a new app enabling citizens to access information with a single click, and Mission Karmayogi, a capacity-building initiative for civil servants.

    In line with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of “Minimum Government, Maximum Governance,” Dr. Jitendra Singh referred to the abolition of interviews for Group C and D employees, emphasizing democratizing governance and providing equal opportunities for all.

    Highlighting India’s technological advancements in governance, Dr. Jitendra Singh noted that India is among the first countries to establish a National Quantum Mission and Open Network Digital Commerce. He also highlighted India’s space achievements, including the Chandrayaan Mission, which made India the first country to reach the Moon’s South Pole, and the Aditya L1 Mission, which has made India one of only three nations to have a dedicated mission.

    The Minister also celebrated India’s breakthroughs in healthcare, including the first indigenous DNA vaccine and India’s first HPV vaccine to combat cervical cancer. He further highlighted the indigenous development of the antibiotic Nafithromycin and the first successful gene therapy trial for hemophilia.

     Additionally, he shared that the Department of Atomic Energy installed a Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant at the Kumbh Mela, addressing the daily load of 1 million liters of faecal sludge

    Dr. Jitendra Singh also emphasized India’s commitment to global climate goals under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi.

    The IIAS-DARPG India Conference 2025 provides an invaluable platform for global scholars, policymakers, administrators, and academics to exchange knowledge and discuss the role of governance, technology, and public administration reforms in improving citizen services and public service delivery.

    The conference includes interactive sessions and plenaries, offering valuable insights and collaborative solutions for enhancing governance efficiency worldwide.

    The event was attended by key dignitaries, including Mr. Ra’ed Mohammed BenShams, President of IIAS, and Mr. Sofiane Sahraoui, DG IIAS. Other notable attendees included Secretary DARPG V. Shrinivas, DG IIPA S.N. Tripathi and Additional Secretary DARPG Sh. Puneet Yadav.

    This conference serves as a crucial global platform for discussing the future of public administration, governance reforms, and the role of technology in shaping the governance landscape.

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    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2101941) Visitor Counter : 16

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah chairs High Level Meetings in New Delhi to review security scenario in Jammu and Kashmir

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah chairs High Level Meetings in New Delhi to review security scenario in Jammu and Kashmir

    Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Central government is committed for ‘Terror free Jammu & Kashmir’

    Monitoring of terror-financing, tightening grip over Narco-terror cases and dismantling entire terror ecosystem are priority of Modi government

    Home Minister directs BSF to ensure ‘zero infiltration’ by strengthening the border grid and use of advanced technologies

    Strong steps are being taken for ‘Zero Terror Plan’ in Jammu and Kashmir

    Home Minister directs all security agencies to remain alert and continue work in a synergies mode to eliminate terrorism in J&K

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 7:08PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah chaired High Level meetings in New Delhi to review security scenario in Jammu and Kashmir. These meetings were in continuation of the High Level Meetings with Indian Army and J&K Police held on 4th and 5th February 2025. Union Home Secretary, Director (IB), Director Generals of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Border Security Force (BSF) and other senior officers attended the meetings.

     

    Union Home Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Central government is committed for ‘Terror free Jammu & Kashmir’. He emphasized the role of paramilitary to achieve the target of terror free J&K. Home Minister directed the BSF to ensure zero infiltration from the international borders by adopting strong vigil, strengthening the border grid and use of advanced technologies for surveillance and border guarding.

    Shri Amit Shah directed CRPF to continue with the synergy with Indian Army and J&K Police. He reviewed the winter action plan of CRPF and directed to ensure there are no gaps in area domination. Shri Shah instructed to focus on Jammu region and dominate the heights.

    Home Minister also reviewed the intelligence apparatus working in Jammu and Kashmir and directed them to increase coverage and penetration to generate quality intelligence. He reiterated the importance of technology in intelligence generation. Shri Shah added that monitoring of terror-financing, tightening grip over Narco-terror cases and dismantling entire terror ecosystem in Jammu & Kashmir are priority of Modi government. He said that strong steps are being taken for ‘Zero Terror Plan’ in Jammu and Kashmir.

    Home Minister also directed to focus on countering the negative propaganda by the anti-national elements so as to place the correct picture in public domain. He instructed to continue with the synergy amongst the agencies and guided for adopting technology and increase intelligence.

    Shri Amit Shah directed all security agencies to remain alert and continue work in a synergies mode to eliminate terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. He assured that all the resources will be made available in this endeavor.

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    (Release ID: 2101932) Visitor Counter : 104

    Read this release in: Hindi

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India-Israel Business Forum & CEO Forum Held To Strengthen Bilateral Economic Ties

    Source: Government of India (2)

    India-Israel Business Forum & CEO Forum Held To Strengthen Bilateral Economic Ties

    Meeting to enhance strategic partnership unlocking opportunities for trade, investment, and tech collaboration

    India-Israel partnership, built on shared values of democracy, economic resilience, and technological advancement: Shri Piyush Goyal

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 7:07PM by PIB Delhi

    Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) in collaboration with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and the Embassy of Israel, successfully hosted the India-Israel Business Forum and the 3rd India-Israel CEO Forum in New Delhi. These landmark events reinforced the deep-rooted economic and strategic partnership between the two nations, unlocking new opportunities for trade, investment, and technological collaboration.

    Addressing the gathering during the inaugural session of the Business Forum, Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal reaffirmed India’s commitment to becoming a USD 30-35 trillion economy by 2047, aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat. He emphasized the growing India-Israel partnership, built on shared values of democracy, economic resilience, and technological advancement, while underlining India’s zero-tolerance policy on terrorism and commitment to global peace and security.

    Highlighting India’s 10 key strengths in terms of 10 D’s, that define its economic potential, the Minister spoke about Democracy – Equal opportunities for all, Demographic Dividend – A young and skilled workforce, Diversity – A multi-dimensional economy with vast opportunities, Digitization – Rapid technological transformation, Decarbonization – Commitment to a green economy, Determination – A workforce driven by innovation, Development – A robust policy framework for growth, Dependability – A trusted global partner, Decisive Leadership – Bold economic reforms and Demand – A thriving domestic market.

    Minister Goyal also highlighted the digital prowess of India and how the country has been able to digitise very rapidly in Agritech and education and in every aspect of the economy. He emphasised that inclusive growth opens up a new set of opportunities leading to development of all regions of India. He mentioned that Israel could look upon India as a trusted and dependable partner, emphasizing the role of India during the COVID pandemic and how India has met every commitment.

    H E MK Nir Barkat, Minister of Economy and Industry, State of Israel said that the delegation to India Israel Business Forum was the biggest ever mission to any country from Israel. He said, “I want to mention that there is a special friendship between Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Netanyahu throughout the years with very strong Government-to-Government collaboration.”

    He underscored two important goals of the Forum. First, to get Israeli companies’ exposure and seek collaboration opportunities with India and the second is to discover what the Government from both sides can do to make the relationship between India and Israel even deeper.

    Minister Barkat also underscored the importance of India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) and the India Israel Business Forum provides an opportunity to make that happen.

    Speaking during the inaugural session of the Business Forum, Shri Amardeep Singh Bhatia, Secretary, DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India highlighted that India has a large market with skills across the spectrum including skills in designing of chips and research in pharmaceuticals, highlighting collaboration opportunities with the robust innovation ecosystem of Israel and enhancing FDI both ways.

    H E Reuven Azar, Ambassador of Israel to India mentioned how India and Israel can geopolitically secure their supply chains and secondly on discovering strategies to win the race for global competition. He highlighted that both countries can come together and form the partnership in high tech manufacturing, research & development and provide the outlook for future Israel-India partnership with the signing of the Mutual Investment Agreement in March.   

    The 3rd India-Israel CEO Forum witnessed strategic discussions between industry leaders, policymakers, and investors. The CEO Forum focused on expanding India-Israel business and trade relations, particularly in Key Areas of Collaboration like:

    • Technology & Innovation: Strengthening partnerships in AI, quantum computing, smart manufacturing, and cybersecurity.
    • Agriculture & Healthcare: Leveraging Israeli agri-tech and medical R&D to enhance food security and healthcare innovation.
    • Défense & Homeland Security: Deepening cooperation in defense manufacturing and security technology.
    • Energy & Water Management: Expanding joint efforts in renewable energy, energy conservation, smart grids, and sustainable water solutions.
    • Investment & Trade Facilitation: Enhancing FDI in both directions and fostering ease of doing business.

    Mr Avi Balashnikov, Chairman of the Board, Israel Export Institute said that “people sometimes talk about big India and small Israel but when I look, I see two giants with India giant in size and scale and Israel giant in new ideas.”

    Mr. Sanjiv Puri, President, CII mentioned several areas of collaboration opportunities including AI and quantum computing, renewable energy, water, and further mentioned about strengthening of India–Israel Industrial R&D and Technological Innovation Fund.

    The Israel India Business Forum saw participation from industry members of India and Israel. At the B2B interactions, industry members discussed potential areas of collaboration between the countries. The Forum saw 500+ B2B meetings.

    The India-Israel Business Forum & CEO Forum mark a significant milestone in accelerating economic cooperation, trade expansion, and investment-led growth. As natural allies, India and Israel are committed to fostering a future-ready partnership, driving innovation, and creating opportunities for mutual prosperity.

    *****

     

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    (Release ID: 2101930) Visitor Counter : 73

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Exciting news for artisans! Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), is opening doors for weavers and rural entrepreneurs from every corner of India to showcase their work at Bharat Tex 2025

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Exciting news for artisans! Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), is opening doors for weavers and rural entrepreneurs from every corner of India to showcase their work at Bharat Tex 2025

    From aspiring artists to skilled artisans: DIC provides a platform for you to shine at Bharat Tex 2025 with innovative digital tools & eCommerce marketplace.

    If you’re a modern-era creative with a passion for weaving, Computer-Aided Textile Designing (CAD) software is here to transform your craft

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 6:57PM by PIB Delhi

    If you have a passion for Indian craftsmanship but struggling to find a platform, this is your moment!

    Whether you’re a budding artist with a creative vision or a skilled artisan looking to expand your reach, these tools and platforms by Digital India Corporation (DIC) will bridge the gap, giving you the opportunity to showcase your talent and thrive in the digital era.

    Digital India Corporation (DIC), under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), is featuring its initiatives at Bharat Tex 2025, India’s largest global textile event.

    Through three key projects and the BharatKeKaarigar campaign, DIC is helping artisans reach a larger audience, celebrate their craft and share the stories behind their handmade products.

    Bharat Tex 2025 will take place from February 12–15, 2025 at India Exposition Mart, Greater Noida and February 14–17, 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

    Please join the occasion to celebrate the fusion of tradition and technology, empowering artisans and weavers for a brighter, more inclusive future.

     

    Empowering artisans through digital transformation

    Digital India Corporation (DIC), under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), has been at the forefront of India’s digital transformation. By leveraging the latest technology and fostering digital empowerment, DIC has strengthened the nation’s e-commerce landscape and enhanced opportunities for artisans, weavers and rural entrepreneurs in the handloom and handicraft sector.

     

    Three major projects will be highlighted at Stall No. 12-A27 in Hall No. 12, Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, underscoring the government’s dedication to innovation, sustainability and economic empowerment in the textile sector:

     

    1. Indiahandmade.com

    Indiahandmade.com is an eCommerce marketplace exclusively for Indian handloom and handicraft products. Its user-friendly interface, secure transactions and seller support mechanisms promote ease of doing business. The platform has a listing of more than 2,500 artisans and weavers and 15,000 products, providing them with an exclusive e-marketplace to sell their products directly across India.

     

    1. DigiBunai™

    This is an open-source CAD software, facilitating digital transformation of textile design processes. Offering learning and usability platforms free of cost optimises pre-loom design creation, enhances livelihood opportunities and promotes self-employment in the handloom industry. Currently, DigiBunai™ boasts over 7,000 beneficiaries across 28 States and 6 Union Territories in India.

    CAD bridges the gap between artistry and innovation, empowering weavers to bring their creative visions to life.

     

    1.  eSaras.in

     This isan eCommerce platform designed to uplift rural livelihoods by showcasing authentic handcrafted products from self-managed Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and federated institutions. With categories ranging from home and living to personal care and food items, eSaras ensures fair remuneration to artisans and eliminates price manipulation by middlemen.

     

    BharatKeKaarigar social and digital media campaign

    As Bharat Tex 2025 approaches, Digital India Corporation has also begun a #BharatKeKaarigar social and digital media campaign that connects consumers with the stories and traditions behind each handmade piece, fostering a sense of pride and appreciation for Indian craftsmanship.

     

    Digital India Corporation (DIC)

    Digital India Corporation (DIC) is a not-for-profit organization established by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, under Section 8 of the Companies Act 2013. IC plays a pivotal role in advancing India’s digital transformation by developing and deploying Information and Communication Technology (ICT) solutions aimed at benefiting the common man.

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    (Release ID: 2101925) Visitor Counter : 43

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Technology has transformed the nature of warfare; India must stay abreast with latest advancements: Raksha Rajya Mantri during DRDO seminar at Aero India 2025

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Technology has transformed the nature of warfare; India must stay abreast with latest advancements: Raksha Rajya Mantri during DRDO seminar at Aero India 2025

    35 Licensing Agreements for Transfer of Technology for 19 cutting-edge tech handed over to 32 Industries during the event

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 6:22PM by PIB Delhi

    “As technology has transformed the nature of warfare from conventional to unconventional & asymmetric, India must stay abreast with the latest advancements,” said Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth while addressing a DRDO seminar in Bengaluru on February 11, 2025. Raksha Rajya Mantri lauded the efforts of DRDO, industry, including MSMEs & start-ups, and academia in making the country self-reliant in defence manufacturing. He urged them to come out with more latest innovations and contribute in realising the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.

    The seminar ‘DRDO-Industry Synergy towards Viksit Bharat: Make in India, Make for the World’ was organised on the sidelines of 15th Aero India. During the event, 35 Licensing Agreements for Transfer of Technology (LATOT) for 19 niche technologies of 16 DRDO laboratories were handed over to 32 Industries to nurture indigenous technologies in the defence sector and increase awareness among prospective customers in India & abroad.

    Raksha Mantri also released the revised DRDO policy for Transfer of Technology (ToT). The policy aims to further streamline the ToT process from DRDO to industries, granting them easier access to latest technologies & DRDO expertise, while enhancing the ease of doing business for SMEs in Defence R&D. He also released the updated compendium titled ‘DRDO Products for Export’ consisting of more than 200 products/systems showcasing India’s cutting-edge defence capabilities to friendly nations.

    An Airworthiness Policy Framework – IMAP-23 was also released during the function. This document provides a paradigm shift in the certification procedure of the military aviation sector by capturing emergent requirements of Indian Industry. An Airworthiness Certification Kit was also released. It is a comprehensive compilation of policy documents and templates to enable easy appreciation of certification requirements by industries.

    During the event, Exchange of Tripartite MoU took place among Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification, Defence Institute of Advanced Technology and the Aeronautical Society of India on Designated Engineer Representative implementation. The MoU will facilitate training engineers towards undertaking certification tasks.

    Defence industries, government agencies, delegations from friendly nations and defence attachés participated in the seminar. It included presentations from scientists and leading experts on export of defence products from India. The event also marked a panel discussion on ‘Opportunities for Industries in Defence Export’.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Commonsense changes to help more Australians into a home

    Source: Australian Ministers for Education

    Financial regulators will update their guidance to make it easier for Australians with a HELP debt to responsibly take out a mortgage and buy a home, and also unlock the construction of more units, following a request from the Albanese Government.

    We’re tackling this housing challenge from every possible angle.   

    These are commonsense changes that will help more Australians into a home.  

    I’ve agreed these changes in discussions with regulators and convened the banks to discuss them.

    People with a HELP debt should be treated fairly when they want to buy a house and we’re working with the regulators to make sure they are.  

    By unlocking more finance from the banks we’ll see more housing projects get off the ground more quickly.  

    Currently, a barrier for young Australians to get into the housing market is the reluctance of banks to give them a mortgage.  

    The ABA has indicated that one reason for this uncertainty is the interpretation of lending regulations and guidance by APRA and ASIC.

    APRA has confirmed it will start consultation soon on the treatment of HELP debts in serviceability requirements and debt reporting.    

    ASIC has confirmed it will move to quickly implement changes to its guidance on the treatment of HELP debts, following targeted consultation.  

    The government has also asked APRA to update and clarify its regulatory guidance to help unlock the construction of more units.  

    Some lenders have interpreted advice issued by APRA in 2017, that finance for construction of new unit blocks should depend on all properties being pre-sold. Lenders have indicated this is a barrier to financing.    

    The interpretation of this guidance as “100% pre-sales” by some lenders has limited housing supply, as smaller developers often don’t have the capital to finance the start of construction without support from the banks.  

    APRA has confirmed it will communicate to banks that while it expects banks to consider the extent of presales as part of prudent credit risk management, APRA does not expect 100% pre-sales.   

    ASIC has confirmed it will move to quickly implement changes to its guidance on responsible lending laws.  

    Helping more Australians into homes is one of the Albanese Government’s highest priorities. 

    This is all part of our comprehensive Homes for Australia plan which includes the biggest home building program of any government in history.  

    Peter Dutton’s cuts to housing would mean fewer homes when Australia desperately needs more.  

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: LIS Technologies Inc. Announces it is the Lead Sponsor of the United States Nuclear Industry Council’s – Advanced Reactor Summit XII with Chief Executive Officer Christo Liebenberg Scheduled to Present

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Oak Ridge, Tennessee, Feb. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LIS Technologies Inc. (“LIST” or “the Company”), a proprietary developer of advanced laser technology and the only USA-origin and patented laser uranium enrichment company, today announced that it is the Platinum, Nuclear Titan and Summit Lead sponsor of the upcoming United States Nuclear Industry Council (USNIC) Advanced Reactor (AR) Summit XII, to be held in Salt Late City, Utah this month.

    LIST Chief Executive Officer Christo Liebenberg will lead a presentation titled “Lasers, Wafers and Nuclear – the story of LIS Technologies”, and will be highlighting the Company’s recent achievements and goals as it progresses towards eventual test loop demonstrations of its proprietary and patented CRISLA technology. Viktor Chikan Ph.D., LIS Technologies’ co-Chief Technology Officer and Jay Yu, Executive Chairman and President will also attend the summit.

    The AR Summit XII is focused on showcasing technology developers, supply chain leaders, commercial end users, and advancing solutions on the cost and deployment timeframe of advanced reactors, as well as practical ideas and concepts that have the potential of significantly improving advanced reactor design, deployment, and operations.

    USNIC represents over 80 companies and organizations engaged in advanced nuclear innovation and supply chain development, including technology developers, manufacturers, construction engineers, key utility movers, and service providers. It also provides a practical nuclear energy pathway to new, flexible technologies through educational programs, industry insights, and market intelligence that bring together bi-partisan Federal and State legislators who create a successful clean energy paradigm that includes nuclear.

    Figure 1 – LIS Technologies Inc. Becomes the Platinum, Nuclear Titan and Summit Lead Sponsor of the Upcoming USNIC Advanced Reactor Summit XII, to be held in Salt Lake City Utah this Month.

    “Our participation in this key Summit is a welcome milestone for LIST as we continue to make strides towards the development and deployment of a comprehensive domestic nuclear fuel supply chain,” said Christo Liebenberg, CEO of LIS Technologies Inc. “Infrared lasers play a crucial role in producing the world’s most advanced semiconductor chips, which are driving the AI revolution and reshaping our nuclear energy landscape. These same lasers are also integral to third-generation laser enrichment. Several team members at LIST have expertise in both industries. As the next generation of advanced nuclear reactors emerges, a strong domestic infrastructure will be essential, and LIST is strategically positioned to lead its development.”

    About the U.S. Nuclear Industry Council

    The U.S. Nuclear Industry Council (USNIC) is the leading U.S. business advocate for the advancement of applications for nuclear energy technology, and promotion of the U.S. supply-chain worldwide. USNIC represents approximately eighty entities engaged in all aspects of the future of nuclear technology. These include: key utility movers, technology developers, construction engineers, manufactures, front- and back-end service providers, scientists, academia, national laboratories, fuel innovators, as well as those involved in medical and aerospace advancements. USNIC encompasses five working groups including an Advanced Nuclear Working Group. For more information visit www.usnic.org. 

    About LIS Technologies Inc.

    LIS Technologies Inc. (LIST) is a USA based, proprietary developer of a patented advanced laser technology, making use of infrared lasers to selectively excite the molecules of desired isotopes to separate them from other isotopes. The Laser Isotope Separation Technology (L.I.S.T) has a huge range of applications, including being the only USA-origin (and patented) laser uranium enrichment company, and several major advantages over traditional methods such as gas diffusion, centrifuges, and prior art laser enrichment. The LIST proprietary laser-based process is more energy-efficient and has the potential to be deployed with highly competitive capital and operational costs. L.I.S.T is optimized for LEU (Low Enriched Uranium) for existing civilian nuclear power plants, High-Assay LEU (HALEU) for the next generation of Small Modular Reactors (SMR) and Microreactors, the production of stable isotopes for medical and scientific research, and applications in quantum computing manufacturing for semiconductor technologies. The Company employs a world class nuclear technical team working alongside leading nuclear entrepreneurs and industry professionals, possessing strong relationships with government and private nuclear industries.

    In 2024, LIS Technologies Inc. was selected as one of six domestic companies to participate in the Low-Enriched Uranium (LEU) Enrichment Acquisition Program. This initiative allocates up to $3.4 billion overall, with contracts lasting for up to 10 years. Each awardee is slated to receive a minimum contract of $2 million.

    For more information please visit: LaserIsTech.com

    For further information, please contact:
    Email: info@laseristech.com
    Telephone: 800-388-5492
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    Forward Looking Statements

    This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would” or “may” and other words of similar meaning. These forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management’s current views and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For LIS Technologies Inc., particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to the following which are, and will be, exacerbated by any worsening of global business and economic environment: (i) risks related to the development of new or advanced technology, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, development of competitive technology, loss of key individuals and uncertainty of success of patent filing, (ii) our ability to obtain contracts and funding to be able to continue operations and (iii) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to commercially deploy a competitive laser enrichment technology, (iv) risks related to the impact of government regulation and policies including by the DOE and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission; and other risks and uncertainties discussed in this and our other filings with the SEC. Only after successful completion of our Phase 2 Pilot Plant demonstration will LIS Technologies be able to make realistic economic predictions for a Commercial Facility. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Water crisis in the province of Enna, compliance with EU legislation on sustainable water management and respect for the right of access to water – E-002008/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) [1] supports Member States and regions in improving water management systems and infrastructures. Under the Regional Programme Sicily ERDF 2014-2020 and 2021-2027 and the National Programme Infrastructures and Networks ERDF 2014-2020, some EUR 460 million have been allocated to support sustainable water management in Sicily, with priority for infrastructural interventions reducing losses in the water supply network. These investments concern new and upgraded water supply networks, improvements to reservoirs and the reuse of wastewater.

    While Italy’s Recovery and Resilience Plan allocates EUR 4.8 billion to enhance water supply management through targeted projects, the Council Implementing Decision Annex does not allocate resources specifically to the province of Enna. Any allocation to Enna is a decision of national and regional authorities.

    2. According to the Common Provisions Regulation[2] (CPR), the selection and funding of operations is the responsibility of the regional or national authorities managing the programmes. Furthermore, the CPR lays down enabling conditions for Member States to access the ERDF with a view to ensuring that the necessary prerequisites are met for the effective and efficient implementation of a selected specific objective.

    For the Regional Programme Sicily ERDF 2021-2027, the enabling condition ‘2.5 Updated planning for required investments in water and wastewater sectors’ is not yet fulfilled; therefore, payments of EU contributions to this sector have not started.

    The Commission monitors the programmes’ implementation and progress towards the fulfilment of the applicable enabling conditions in regular meetings with the managing authorities.

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/funding/erdf_en
    • [2] Regulation (EU) 2021/1060 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 June 2021 laying down common provisions on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund Plus, the Cohesion Fund, the Just Transition Fund and the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund and financial rules for those and for the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund, the Internal Security Fund and the Instrument for Financial Support for Border Management and Visa Policy.
    Last updated: 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Implementation of forest maps and protection of private property in Greece – E-002804/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission ensures, within the remit of its competence, the respect of fundamental rights enshrined in the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights (the Charter), including the right to property[1].

    According to its Article 51(1) the provisions of the Charter are addressed to Member States only when they are implementing EU law.

    In this case, it is for Member States, including their judicial authorities, to ensure that fundamental rights are effectively respected and protected in accordance with their national law and international human rights obligations.

    The Commission is not responsible for monitoring the application of national laws for matters, such as property rights, which do not fall within EU competence.

    Therefore, the Commission has not issued and does not plan to issue any guidelines to resolve environmental protection conflicts with property rights .

    It is up to the Member States to identify and use EU co-financing, provided that the eligibility and selection criteria of any relevant EU programmes or funding tools are fulfilled. Cohesion Policy[2], through projects co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund[3], provides tools that can contribute to addressing challenges related to forest maps and property management in Greece[4].

    In line with this, Greece’s Recovery and Resilience Plan[5] includes a reform to finalise the national cadastre, establishing an efficient land registry system and providing legal certainty for property rights (measure 16986). By mid-2025, the cadastral mapping is expected to be completed, with all property rights available for public display.

    • [1] Article17 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/policy/what/investment-policy_en
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/funding/erdf_en
    • [4] For instance, the project Development of an Integrated Information System for the Central Geospatial Infrastructure (ERDF co-financing: EUR 0.6 million) focuses on creating a comprehensive geospatial information system to manage grazing lands, immovable property, and agricultural registers, supporting improved land and forest management. Similarly, the project Digitization of the Historic Archive of Aerial Photographs (ERDF co-financing: EUR 3.3 million) involves preserving and digitizing aerial photographs to create a Geographic Information System (GIS), which will contribute to documenting forest and land boundaries, improving transparency, and supporting sustainable land management efforts.
    • [5] https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/economic-recovery/recovery-and-resilience-facility/country-pages/greeces-recovery-and-resilience-plan_en

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Need for clear commitment and real support for the cities forming part of the ‘100 smart and climate-neutral cities by 2030’ mission and which have already received the EU mission label – E-000059/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In its communication of 2023 on EU Missions[1], the Commission stated that the ‘implementation of the current five Missions should be continued, and support should be increased, both politically and financially’.

    It also stressed that ‘a broader portfolio of instruments needs to be mobilised, with the Horizon Europe calls serving only as seed funding and orchestrators rather than the main instruments of deployment’.

    For the Climate Neutral and Smart Cities Mission[2], this broadening of portfolio of instruments is important as the majority of the resources needed for the deployment of their Climate City contracts will have to come from the private sector.

    Beyond Research and Innovation funding, cities within the Climate Neutral and Smart Cities mission have received more than EUR 100 million of financial support from other EU programmes, other than Horizon Europe such as Connecting Europe Facility[3], LIFE[4], the European Urban Initiative[5]_[6] and the Digital Europe Programme[7].

    The Climate City Capital Hub[8], launched in June 2024, helps cities that have received the EU Mission Label[9] (18 have been targeted so far) to get projects ready for investment. It offers them advice on the best financing solutions, in close cooperation with existing advisory services, such as those offered by the European Investment Bank, and puts cities in touch with investors.

    In addition, EUR 21 million were secured in 2024 to deploy advisory services of the European Investment Bank (including European Local ENergy Assistance (ELENA)[10] and the InvestEU Advisory Hub[11]) to the cities that have received the EU Mission Label.

    Finally, the European Investment Bank also ringfenced a lending envelope of EUR 2 billion for labelled Mission Cities.

    • [1]  COM(2023) 457, 19/07/2023.
    • [2]  https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe/eu-missions-horizon-europe/climate-neutral-and-smart-cities_en
    • [3]  https://cinea.ec.europa.eu/programmes/connecting-europe-facility_en
    • [4]  https://cinea.ec.europa.eu/programmes/life_en
    • [5] As regards the European Urban Initiative of Cohesion Policy, calls for innovative action proposals have included references to embed proposals in relevant urban strategies and plans such as those of the Climate Neutral and Smart Cities Mission
    • [6]  https://www.urban-initiative.eu/
    • [7]  https://commission.europa.eu/funding-tenders/find-funding/eu-funding-programmes/digital-europe-programme_en
    • [8]  https://netzerocities.eu/capital-hub/
    • [9]  https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/document/942e747e-3ccf-4121-a973-9cc8032fc421_en
    • [10] https://www.eib.org/en/products/advisory-services/elena/index
    • [11] https://investeu.europa.eu/investeu-programme/investeu-advisory-hub_en

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Time to lift the international sanctions on Syria? – 11-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Since the unexpected overthrow of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in early December 2024, Syria has embarked on an uncertain trajectory. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the armed jihadi group leading the offensive against the Assad forces, has now taken charge of the country and set up a caretaker government. Scepticism abounds in international circles about HTS owing to the group’s terrorist credentials and Salafist ideology. However, the new Syrian authorities have declared plans to establish a political transition inclusive of all minorities and segments of Syrian society, as well as increased engagement with neighbouring countries and other foreign players, offering the international community some reassurance. One of the main demands in the current context from all sides, within Syria as well as from other states and organisations, has been to lift the complex web of international economic, financial and trade sanctions against the country. Most of these sanctions were imposed after Assad’s brutal crackdown on protesters in 2011. Moreover, calls have been made to remove the designations of HTS and its leader Ahmed al-Sharaa from the international terrorist lists. Such steps are believed to be essential in addressing the significant economic and humanitarian challenges facing the country after nearly 14 years of civil war. The United States (US) imposes the most comprehensive sanctions on Syria, including secondary sanctions on foreign governments, non-US individuals and entities doing business with the Syrian government and sanctioned entities in Syria. The European Union (EU) has also imposed restrictive measures on certain Syrian economic sectors, along with asset freezes and travel bans on individuals or entities supporting the Assad regime. In January 2025, the US granted short-term waivers relating to the provision of basic services in response to requests for sanctions relief for Syria. Similarly, the EU Member States reached a political agreement to suspend certain restrictions gradually and conditionally. The UN Security Council has the authority to remove the terrorist designations of HTS and its leader from the ISIL (Da’esh)/Al-Qaida list.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Attacks by Türkiye on the Syrian Kurds – E-003087/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The fall of Assad’s criminal regime marks a historic moment for the Syrian people.

    The High Representative/Vice-President (HR/VP) confirms the EU commitment to a Syrian-led, Syrian-owned peaceful and inclusive political transition, where all groups participate at the negotiating table.

    The European Council conclusions of 19 December 2024[1] underlined ‘the need to ensure respect for human rights, including women’s rights, non-sectarian governance and the protection of members of religious and ethnic minorities, and to safeguard Syria’s cultural heritage’.

    It called on ‘all parties to preserve national unity and ensure the protection of all civilians, the provision of public services as well as the creation of conditions for an inclusive and peaceful political transition’.

    The EU stands ready to support the new phase in Syria in coordination with regional partners (Türkiye, Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq, others). The HR/VP expressed the EU’s position in international meetings, including in Aqaba[2], Riyadh as well as during her recent visit to Ankara.

    Türkiye has a legitimate right and responsibility to fight against terrorism, ensuring that this is done in accordance with the rule of law, respecting human rights and fundamental freedoms, in full respect of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of neighbouring states.

    In October 2019, Member States committed to strong national positions regarding their arms export policy to Türkiye on the basis of the provisions of Common Position 2008/944/CFSP on arms export controls.

    There is no arms embargo to Türkiye in place. This would require unanimity. The responsible Council Working Group remains seized on this important matter.

    • [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/jhlenhaj/euco-conclusions-19122024-en.pdf
    • [2] https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/press-statement-eu-high-representative-foreign-affairs-and-security-policy-following-international_en

    MIL OSI Europe News –